I made a fortune by growing medicinal materials in ancient times

by image is not here

not mine. mtl. 210 ch. ancient. female protagonist. poor to rich.

2. Chapter 2

=== Chapter === 105

The twenty-fifth year of Taihe, the eighth day of the first lunar month.

The atmosphere of the New Year is still there. It is the only leisure time in the year in the village. Children are running around and eating all kinds of delicious food without worrying about being scolded. Men are squatting outside after a year of hard work and looking forward to the coming year. It is rare for a woman to be free and casual, knocking some mountain products and chatting on the kang.

At Li Xiandong's house, Li Xiaohan was lazily cooking a fire plate. He had slept a lot in the past few days, but today he got up much earlier than usual.

Suddenly, there was a gentle knock on the door, and Li Xiaohan shouted: "Who is it? Just push the door open and come in. The door is not closed."

There are always people coming to Li Xiandong's house these days, and pepper and pepper wine are a natural topic of conversation. No one is stupid. There is no harm in building a good relationship with Li Xiandong's family in advance and getting closer, no. Seeing Li Shengyi's family is an example.

Therefore, Li Xiaohan thought that the villagers came to visit again.

However, after Li Xiaohan finished speaking, there was no sound of the door being pushed open for a long time. Just as Li Xiaohan was about to open the door in confusion, the door was gently pushed open. An unexpected person opened the door and walked in.

"Mr. Zhang? Why are you here? Come in quickly." Li Xiaohan said, turning sideways to let the person in.

Zhang Fu obviously didn't understand the custom of Pingshan Village where the door was left ajar and he pushed the door in. He almost thought he heard wrong. Now that I see Li Xiaohan's natural attitude, I feel relieved. I am not too rude.

After Li Xiaohan greeted the person, he realized that Zhang Fu should have come on horseback. He was full of cold air. He hurriedly brought the person to the fire plate in the main room and asked, "You are here alone." Where's Qingzhu?"

"No, I came with Qingzhu, and he went to tie the horse." Zhang Fu explained.

"Oh." Li Xiaohan breathed a sigh of relief when he heard that someone was coming. At this time, Li Xiandong heard the voice and walked out of the tool room, and was slightly surprised to see Zhang Fu.

Zhang Fu stood up quickly and said with a little embarrassment, "Uncle Li, happy New Year. Coming uninvited is really disturbing."

According to Zhang Fu's education, it is indeed impolite for someone to come directly to the door during the Chinese New Year without a greeting card, and to come to the door on business.

Li Xiandong waved his hands repeatedly and said, "No interruption, no interruption, you sit down." Suddenly more villagers came to the door, Li Xiandong didn't think anything, but he didn't know what was going on.

"Dad, Mr. Zhang came here on horseback with Qingzhu. Qingzhu is outside the door. You ask mother to boil a pot of brown sugar, eggs and ginger to warm them up. Later, you can fasten the door and let the villagers. Don't come here, we have something to talk about." Li Xiaohan said.

It was the Chinese New Year, and Zhang Fu was probably busy socializing and spending time with his mother, so he suddenly came over not to pay her family a New Year greeting, but because he had something to do.

"Okay, you guys chat." Li Xiandong said, and first went to the backyard to tell Wang about the matter. At this time, Qingzhu also tied up his horse and came in. Everyone was acquainted, so Qingzhu followed Li Xiandong to help.

"What happened to make you come here in a hurry?" Li Xiaohan asked Zhang Fu in confusion as he motioned for Zhang Fu to sit closer to the brazier.

There was a wry smile on Zhang Fu's face, "We don't have enough heart-burning wine and alcohol, so we probably have to start work early."

The villagers were not used to the new name, so they still called it Fanjiao Wine. Zhang Fu and the others changed their name very quickly. After all, this name still fetched a higher price to the outside world.

"Didn't I rush for time and stock up a batch for you two years ago? Why isn't it enough?"

In anticipation of the Chinese New Year, everyone worked hard for a long time and prepared enough inventory before the Chinese New Year, just so that they could celebrate the New Year easily.

"Not enough." The bitter smile on Zhang Fu's face became thicker as he explained, "In mid-December of the previous year, Doctor Zhang went to the front line with alcohol and white wax, saying that there was no place more suitable for experiments than the front line. "

Li Xiaohan smacked his tongue slightly, that was the front line, where people died every day, and Doctor Zhang just passed by.

But when he thought of Dr. Zhang trying everything like Shen Nong tasting a hundred herbs, Li Xiaohan felt that he was quite similar to Dr. Zhang, a crazy professional genius.

"Based on the results of Dr. Zhang's experiments on the front line, they initially used contrast treatment. Some of the wounded were treated with alcohol disinfection, while others were not treated. As a result, only 30% of the patients had fever after alcohol disinfection. And most of them are mild cases; and more than 50% of people who do not use alcohol for disinfection have fever, and there are many wounds that are seriously decayed and require secondary debridement. After the second debridement, alcohol is used. It can significantly reduce the symptoms of fever and purulence, and most people who do not use alcohol die after sustained high fever."

Li Xiaohan remained silent. She knew the importance of alcohol disinfection, but she never expected that it would be reflected in such a cruel way on the battlefield.

"Therefore, they all used alcohol later. No matter how much alcohol Dr. Zhang brought over, it was not enough."

In fact, what Zhang Fu didn't say was that the alcohol incident almost caused a riot.

All because the contrasting effect was too obvious. At first, the injured soldiers kowtowed one after another in the hope that they could use the magic medicine brought by Doctor Zhang. Those who couldn't use it tried their best to cry and beg to get it. I went to complain to the superior, but Dr. Zhang didn't listen no matter how he explained that it was just a comparative experiment and that he didn't have enough alcohol.

Later, it directly alarmed the general-level senior officials. Someone reported to King Ding and complained that General Zhang Zhen used his son's convenience of supplying military supplies to seek his own interests.

After all, in order to stuff Dr. Zhang as a supernumerary doctor, it was of course more convenient to put him under General Zhang Zhen. This became clear evidence.

However, General Zhang Zhen is not just a vegetarian. "How is my son sent here? This is the doctor of my wife's dowry shop, and he is not on the military supply route. Except for Doctor Zhang, other... my sons Where is the special treatment? Also, when Dr. Zhang came, who was it that was complaining, saying that the movements were too hard to do first and then the treatment would make the blood drain out? It was you, Ma Datou; what else could he say? I have never seen anyone whose medicine for injuries is unreliable. Chen Lianlong, this is what you said."

After this roar, the two generals who were called nicknames on the spot calmed down a little, but they could not back down from demanding equal treatment.

In the end, King Ding came forward to mediate, and then issued an urgent order for Zhang Fu to prepare a batch of alcohol as soon as possible.

"Has it been presented to King Ding?" Li Xiaohan asked with a frown, "But no matter how hard we use it, we won't be able to supply enough for an army. You also know how difficult it is to extract alcohol."

After all, it is not industrial alcohol. It is purely extracted by distillation of grain alcohol, which results in huge losses and very low output.

"I have reported urgently to explain that full supply is definitely impossible now. At that time, I was just thinking about having a more suitable test environment. I didn't expect that it could have such a good effect and cause such a big stir. There is no movement. Now we can only try our best to supply a batch first to stabilize the morale of the army." Zhang Fu said with a sigh.

Li Xiaohan felt a little heavy. After all, she knew the effects of alcohol. But at that time, no matter how much she said, she had no evidence, so she simply stopped saying it. But now, let's find a way to solve it first. "People probably don't have any evidence." As for the problem, I will take you to find the clan leader later. There is just one problem. If you want alcohol, you must have original wine. Is there so much original wine in Fucheng in a short period of time?"

After all, as food prices rose last year, it is estimated that many wineries also reduced their wine stocks.

"I have a way to do this. There is already a batch of wine on the way." Zhang Fu explained, "Those businessmen from the south of the Yangtze River have arrived in the capital a few years ago. Whether it is white wax or heart-burning wine, they are all very popular. Welcome. Especially the heart-burning wine, which is very suitable for the liking of literati. Drink it lightly in a small cup and get slightly drunk. It is said that many literati made it on the spot and it became a good story for a while. "

This was something that was expected. At that time, they had prepared sufficient inventory for Jiangnan. Why is there another batch of raw wine coming now?

Li Xiaohan asked with his eyes, and Zhang Fu continued to answer, "This batch of wine is very popular. After the New Year, it is a time for more banquets. Sun Shangwen and the literati in the capital are preparing to raise their heads on February 2. On that day, a Qushui River Drinking Banquet was prepared. All major aristocratic families contributed money to prepare the Qushui River Drinking Banquet. You can drink as much as you like on that day, as long as you leave a piece of calligraphy as a drink. Such an elegant thing, it is said that the grandson I've heard that they will show up that day to add to the fun."

Although it is said that the aristocratic family is taking the lead, it is actually Mrs. Sun Wenming who is promoting it, and there are many businessmen vying to invest behind it.

Since it is a banquet with flowing water, a large amount of wine is naturally needed, especially the elegant and suitable heart-burning wine.

"Is this how the batch of Jiangnan wine came from?"

"Yes, exchanging wine for wine does not involve food. Only a few senior officials in the army know about alcohol. Others only know that it is a good medicine for wounds, so they came straight from the south of the Yangtze River. , I estimate that their batch of wine will almost arrive when the original wine we have stored is used up."

Li Xiaohan let out a long sigh. On one side, there was a raging war, and they were fighting for life-saving medicine. On the other side, they were singing, dancing, drinking and having fun, which only made people feel ridiculed.

Zhang Fu saw Li Xiaohan's heavy face, paused and explained, "This batch of wine can last for the period before and after the New Year. It was cold last year, and a lot of people froze to death in West Tartar." Cattle and sheep, they will not stop during the Chinese New Year. If they cannot grab anything, they will starve to death. It is better to die in battle. Therefore, although it is Chinese New Year, the war situation has been very tense. But in two months, That'll be fine. When spring comes and they can't attack for a long time, some people will naturally go back to herd cattle and sheep. By then, there won't be so many border conflicts and the pressure won't be as great. ."

After Zhang Fu finished speaking, he looked at Li Xiaohan and tried his best to smile, indicating that everything was still under control. Li Xiaohan glanced at him and said, "Eat the brown sugar, egg and ginger first. After that, we'll go find the clan leader. Don't miss this." Take some time."

After talking for so long, the brown sugar, eggs and ginger were already cooked in the kitchen. Probably because the topic was heavy, Li Xiandong did not interrupt.

Sure enough, as soon as Li Xiaohan said this, Qingzhu quickly brought a large bowl of brown sugar, egg and ginger. Reddish-brown ginger soup, two white eggs lying on it, and a few sliced red dates floating on it.

Zhang Fu picked up the bowl and surrounded the fire plate. He felt that as soon as the bowl of ginger soup entered his stomach, the chill in his whole body was driven away, and his heart gradually calmed down.

No matter how thorough the plan is, it will not make people feel at ease until it is implemented. Raising armaments with the power of one person is basically walking a tightrope on a cliff. Now having one person walking with it doesn't seem like walking in ancient times.

The Li family seems to be just like this bowl of brown sugar, egg and ginger. It is not conspicuous, not luxurious, even very small, but it is practical, reassuring and giving people hope.

After feeling warm from the meal, Li Xiaohan brought Zhang Fu to the patriarch's house.

Patriarch Li was very surprised by Zhang Fu's arrival. Zhang Fu said what he could and covered up what he couldn't. The patriarch's understanding was that there was big business in the north and south, and construction needed to start as soon as possible.

If you have money to make, start working. The patriarch is very simple. These winemakers are paid, and in the end they also account for 10% of the profit of the winery.

"Don't worry about the manpower, there is no problem." If there is a problem, Patriarch Li can remove the people on the spot, and a lot of people are ready to take over. "It's just that the winery hasn't been built yet. There isn't enough space in the kitchen in the front yard of Xiandong's house."

"It's okay. Clear out the two rooms next to my kitchen and set up two simple stoves for use first." Li Xiaohan said. From now on, the brewing stall will be moved out, whether it will continue to be used for frying the pepper base or Easy to restore into a woodshed.

"Sure." The clan leader responded. There was indeed no place more suitable than Li Xiandong's house.

After discussing some more details, Zhang Fu and Qingzhu braved the cold wind and rode back to Fucheng. The raw wine near Fucheng must be collected as soon as possible, and the delivery of the batch of wine from Jiangnan must also be arranged.

After sending Zhang Fu away, Li Xinhe, who had been listening silently, suddenly looked for Li Xiaohan when no one was around, "Xiaohan, are you hiding something?"

Li Xinping spent most of his time in the academy, and he only found out later that this was a good thing.

However, Li Xinhe didn't believe that such a big order was suddenly placed and it was so urgent. It was just because the wine was so popular.

Especially thinking about the previous investigation of the residence, and seeing the invasion of Western Tartars a year ago, Li Xinhe always had a bad premonition.

Li Xiaohan looked at Li Xinhe, brother Xinhe is really smart, smart people should bear more responsibility.

Li, when he was useful, thought of the useless scumbag Xiao Han, and raised his head slightly to look at the worried innocent brother, and once again ordered the butcher's knife, "Brother Xinhe, the alcohol is sent to the north. The army is not used to make scented candles, and the situation ahead is unclear."

Li Xiaohan remembered that although there was no great chaos in the 25th year of Taihe, the taxes and corvee were extremely heavy, so it would be difficult to come to the front line. Moreover, if the imperial court wants to reduce the vassalage, its support will become less and less, and it will be difficult for King Ding to support it.

"Brother Xinhe, the undercurrent is turbulent, and we see strong winds and high waves coming. Even if we climb onto the big ship in a small way, we are not safe. If we accidentally fail to follow, we may be thrown out. "

Even though he got into the relationship with King Ding on a small scale, he was still too weak after all.

"Only one's own strength is fundamental. Brother Xinhe, you are the hope of our clan's future. You have to work hard."

What to do hard, of course, is to work hard to take the imperial examination! Being able to have a successful candidate or Jinshi has a huge impact on a clan.

After listening, Li Xinhe nodded silently, feeling that the burden on his shoulders was extremely heavy.

=== Chapter === 106

On February 2nd, the dragon raises its head in the capital.

The road leading from the capital to the western suburbs was filled with crowds of people. There were endless carriages of wealthy families, as well as civilians wearing commoners walking and laughing to join in the fun.

Starting from the first month of the first lunar month, at the foot of Fengming Mountain in the western suburbs of central Beijing, the servants of each government began to prepare, imitating the elegance of the ancients, to hold a Qushui Drinking Ceremony. Gathering the scholars from all over the world, bringing together the aura of heaven and earth, asking for nothing else, just an exchange between literati. And today is the date when the Qushui River Drinking Ceremony will be held.

Everyone arrived at the foot of Fengming Mountain. The surrounding area was a gathering place for civilians. It was already crowded and lively. Everyone thought that it would be good to come out and join in the fun without being able to see the luxurious banquet of the duke's father. Besides, the scenery in the western suburbs is very good. After holding back all winter, it was time to go out for a walk. Take some time to relax.

The carriage of the Duke's Marquis crossed the civilian area and continued to move forward. The further down Fengming Mountain was, the fewer people there were and the environment became quieter. There were uniformly dressed officers and soldiers guarding the palace. This was the Duke's palace. The gathering place of the Fuhou clan.

Since it is an imitation of the Qingshui Liushang Wenhui in the "Preface to the Lanting Collection", the environment will naturally be closer to that in the book. The western suburbs are originally a place for the nobles of the capital to visit in spring. The scenery is beautiful. However, in order to reproduce what is written in the "Preface to the Lanting Collection", "This place has high mountains, lush forests and bamboos, and there are clear currents that are surging, reflecting them left and right, making them look like flowing water." "It means", and various prefectures in Beijing also spent a lot of effort.

A group of literati wearing scribes' shirts walked forward, talking high-spiritedly about today's events. Today they are the protagonists of this banquet. The Hou Mengongfu, which used to be unreachable in the past, also welcomes these literati with a smile today. It only made these literati become more close to the grandson who valued writing style - without the grandson's nod and arrival, how could there be today's grand gathering.

"I heard that Chen Guogong's Mansion transplanted many black bamboos and created a bamboo forest, which is very quiet and elegant." A scholar in green shirt said curiously.

"What's the point? I heard that the Wuhou Mansion transported a large ship of rockery rocks from Jiangnan to create a rocky mountain." Another scholar said with a slightly secretive pride. Maybe this scholar has something to do with the Wuhou Mansion or Jiangnan. The relationship is unclear.

"Can ships from Jiangnan come up at this time? The canal has been frozen for a long time." Others didn't believe it.

"I heard that they sailed up from the unfrozen river in the south of the Yangtze River. Then when the boat couldn't move, they stopped to unload the goods and used horse-drawn carriages to transport them. I just hurriedly drove up, and it was still two days ago. It has just arrived and almost missed today's event." This scholar is quite well-informed and may have insider information channels.

"That's it, that's it." Everyone nodded one after another, and for a moment they felt generous and praised the scholar who revealed the news.

"What smells so good?" Everyone was walking forward while talking and laughing, and suddenly a scholar said.

"It seems to be the scent of flowers, including osmanthus, jasmine, and jasmine. Hey, these flowers are not blooming at this time. Why do they smell together?" Another scholar had a better nose and smelled several floral scents.

"It's the fragrant ash tree. The fragrant ash tree has been hung up in the princess's palace." A sharp-eyed scholar saw the glistening fire on the tall tree in front and shouted absentmindedly.

"Oh my God, that's the ash tree described in "The Light of Ash". I heard that there is also one in Jiangnan Main Store." Another literati looked at the tree in a daze and said.

I don't know whether I don't know that this fragrant white wax comes from Dingcheng, or I can't say that this fragrant white wax comes from Dingcheng.

"Don't mention Jiangnan, the tree in the store is just a miniature version, and except for a moment of lighting on the day the store opened, there has never been any white wax hanging on the tree since then." This scholar is obviously from Jiangnan, he knows his stuff, " Oh my god, how many candles have been lit when the fragrance floats here? This is several taels of white wax."

"The price is not the problem, the problem is that the supply exceeds the demand. Go quickly, if you go slower, it will be full of people. Let's squeeze in and take a look now." A clever literati strode forward. If it were not for the sake of literati style, , start running early.

Sure enough, in addition to many literati and elegant people around, there were also many noble ladies from the prince's palace and their maids and mothers-in-law walking towards the territory of the princess's mansion. After all, during the Chinese New Year, there was nothing to do, "The Light of White Wax" Talking books should not be too popular in the capital. Scented candles are also a new hobby for ladies, but no one has the luxury of the princess mansion.

But think about it, as the half-sister of the late prince and the direct aunt of the grandson, the princess is favored by the emperor and has a close relationship with the grandson. Therefore, for this grand event, it is appropriate to be a little extravagant. of.

The fragrant ash on the ash trees in the Princess Mansion was burning from the beginning to the end of the event, and when the grandson finally appeared on the stage, the whole place was filled with the fragrance of pine and cypress.

The grandson frowned slightly, but soon smiled. It was obvious that his close relationship with the princess was well-deserved, and the grandson was also very approachable, and he was very gentle and polite to the scholars on the scene.

The arrival of Taisun ignited the enthusiasm of all literati. It is said that countless poems were written that day, and a hundred of the best ones were selected and prepared to be printed into a book to commemorate this grand event.

Among them, the best one came from a scholar from the south of the Yangtze River, "Jiang Huaizi - Today's Orchid Pavilion", which instantly became famous in the capital and became known throughout the world.

This grand event raised the grandson's reputation among the literati to a higher level.

The atmosphere in the capital is lively, and the border areas in the northwest are not bad either.

"I heard that a batch of medicine arrived today. It's the magic medicine." A well-informed President Qian seemed busy, but quietly whispered to his colleagues.

"Really?" The person listening next to him opened his eyes wide.

"Keep your voice down. I was inspecting the prince's camp and heard the generals fighting for it. It can't be fake." Mr. Qian looked around, seeing no one around, and continued to reveal the source of the news in a low voice.

Such big and important news overwhelmed him to death.

"Really? I hope our general can grab the most." After hearing the news, Mr. Qian said with emotion.

"I heard that this magical medicine is very effective. Last month, a veteran in my camp was stabbed in the chest. The military doctor stitched it up at the time, but he developed a fever later. We all thought he wouldn't survive it. It passed. Later, for some reason, the doctor Zhang said that this injury was very representative, so he used the magic medicine, cut off the slough and sutured it, put a hemostatic plaster on the wound, and took the decoction. Now, now They can all walk and jump."

"I've heard about it too. This magical medicine is really life-saving."

"It's not 100% life-saving. What Dr. Zhang said is that it just reduces the chance of fever and tries to prevent the wound from getting worse due to pus and fever. I heard that some people died even after using the magic medicine."

"This is life-saving. We fought hard on the battlefield. Who doesn't know that the most fearful thing is getting pus and fever? If you survive this, you will snatch back half of your life from the hands of the Lord of Hell. As for the rest That half, then it really depends on fate."

"That's true. I hope our general can grab the magic medicine."

"Yes. I hope our general can grab more."

The discussion between the two people finally boiled down to one sentence: I hope our generals can grab it, preferably as much as possible.

In the prince's camp, the two generals of the Qian General lived up to their expectations and were fighting hard. It was General Ma who was said to be the leader that day. "Why, my team charged in front and was injured the most." , why should they have the same weight?"

"The cavalry battalion under my command is the one that deserves the most. A cavalryman is selected from thousands. Each one is the elite among the elites. No one can afford to suffer casualties." He was called Chen Lian that day. Even the tall general will not give in too much.

"Only the cavalry under your command are elite, and the rest can be wasted? Speaking of the main force, our spear battalion is the main force that has followed the prince for the longest time." The other general who was silent in the past did not give in, but the prince is Those who use guns have been silent in the past, but they have never lost anything. It's just that in this situation, it's no longer enough to remain silent.

The three people looked at each other, as if everyone had their own reasons, and then suddenly pointed their guns at General Zhang Zhen, "General Zhang's men have already used alcohol before, and now for the sake of fairness, they should be more modest." Three points is the truth."

General Zhang Zhen almost jumped up. In fact, he also jumped up, "No. Why, how come my son raised the least amount of medicinal materials, and I, the father, had the least."

"General Zhang, you are wrong. Under the command of the prince, Chengan is the prince's man first, and then your son." The general who used to be silent now speaks the most viciously.

"Bullshit, I should be the one who has suffered the most. Why did I bear all the risks of the experiment in the first place, and now you are here to grab the ready-made fruit, and you want to leave me alone. Your Majesty, Your Majesty, no That's the truth."

Prince Ding is wearing chainmail and is tall and mighty. Compared with the prince, he looks more like a fierce general who has been fighting for many years. However, King Ding was already good at martial arts. He followed the emperor in battles when he was young. Later, he was named King Ding to guard the border. It is not an exaggeration to say that he was a military general.

It's just that times and circumstances have changed. At that time, King Ding had the trust of the emperor and had a good relationship with the prince's brother. Therefore, he was highly regarded on the border and lived comfortably.

Now that the grandson is the heir, King Ding's power is too great. The emperor is also old and has to ease the roadblocks for his grandson before he ascends the throne. With layers of paternal authority and royal power suppressed, King Ding's life is not easy now.

"Okay, okay, don't make any noise." King Ding waved his hand and pressed down. The four generals in front of him were like old farmers grabbing water, and then they pressed down a little more.

The final result of the unanimous discussion was that except for the direct jurisdiction of King Ding, the four generals received the same amount of alcohol. However, in order to show fairness, Doctor Zhang could no longer remain under General Zhang and was rotated everywhere. Next, we strive to teach all military doctors the most accurate use of alcohol.

General Zhang originally thought that based on his relationship with Doctor Zhang, Doctor Zhang would refuse, and he could still work hard to get a chance.

As a result, Dr. Zhang felt that it was good to rotate in different places. He could come into contact with more injured patients and choose more diverse injuries for experiments. He also communicated more with other military doctors, which would help him master the trauma treatment techniques. After all, no matter how busy I am at Renhetang, there are not as many traumas as the military doctors have dealt with on the battlefield.

Therefore, Doctor Zhang ignored General Zhang's hints and agreed quickly; General Zhang was stabbed in the back and was left devastated.

A scramble ended with Doctor Zhang's rotation.

Li Xiaohan from Pingshan Village didn't know that Dr. Zhang was so fierce. She intuitively chose the best talent for alcohol promotion. Of course, the same goes for white wax, but the alcohol was so strong that it temporarily covered up the white wax.

At this moment, Li Xiaohan was standing at the foot of the mountain behind Pingshan Village and by the small pond, watching that everyone in the village had begun to build a winery.

Naturally, there will be no shortage of manpower when the clan builds a winery. There are only more than 20 people in front. This is the first batch of people in the early stage. There will be a new batch of people tomorrow. More than twenty people were scattered on this piece of land, first cutting the grass, rooting, and digging the foundation. In order to facilitate their work, these people took off their thick cotton-padded clothes and wore only thin cotton shorts.

"Is it too early to build a house at this time?" Li Xiaohan asked doubtfully. After all, it is still very cold in spring, and it is the coldest when the snow melts. She was wearing a large cotton coat and felt the cold air seeping in while standing aside.

"After the sting, the ground will be loose, and the soil will not be frozen hard. You can dig the foundation and prepare the ground." Patriarch Li explained at the side, "Besides, if we don't dry it now, there will be no more soil soon. It's time to work. It's spring plowing, land preparation, and sowing. Who will have time by then?"

What Patriarch Li said was reasonable, so Li Xiaohan no longer objected. However, when I glanced at the clan leader next door, I saw that the clan leader was not wearing much. Could it be that he was the only one who was cold?

Li Xiaohan shook his head and said, "Patriarch, I'm going back to pick out the pepper seeds first." The villagers wanted to plant a lot of pepper seeds, so they had to get all the pepper seeds from Li Xiaohan, and it was time to select them again. Pepper seeds, it's time to dig out the pepper seeds.

"Okay, you can go back." The clan leader wanted to watch it for a while longer. This is a major event for the clan. From now on, the clan has gained another income.

Patriarch Li plans in his heart that the money for supporting the elderly and the young can be loosened a little more every year;

The books in the school have not been added for many years. The few books brought over by the Tuoqing Gang recently are far from enough. Now we can plan to add a batch;

Xiao Han had secretly revealed the news to himself earlier that he could purchase more mountain land, so that no matter how many men there were in the clan, he would not be afraid that the mountain land would not be enough;

It would be best to have the opportunity to buy some clan fields, which are safe to grow food. At that time, the old clan leader told himself that in the previous generations of clan clan leaders, the clan fields of the Li clan were connected into a vast stretch of land. ah…

Patriarch Li stood in front of this desolate land. The cold wind could not dissipate the passion in the patriarch's heart. He only felt that the clan's rise was in sight, and he would be the patriarch of the resurgence recorded in the genealogy!

Li Xiaohan, who was gradually walking away, looked back and saw that the patriarch was really getting stronger and stronger. His body was tall and straight, and he was not afraid of the cold at all.

=== Chapter === 107

Sure enough, a few days after the second day of February, Li Guihou's family was ready to start building a house.

They chose February 6th as a good day. Li Xiandong's family only found out about this when Li Shengyi came to visit with Li Guihou.

Li Xiandong's house was busy at that time, and Li Shengyi knocked on the door and came in. Li Guihou, who was almost forty years old, followed behind his father, with obvious joy and expectation in his smile.

Li Xiandong thought something was going on, but then Li Shengyi spoke first, "Xiandong, you know that the queen's family is separated. You cousins, I won't tell lies. You will also be neighbors in the future. You have separated and built a house long ago." , you talk to your brother?"

"Okay, if you have any questions, I will tell you everything I know." Li Xiandong responded readily. He thought it was a big deal that Li Shengyi came to visit. It turned out that he was going to start building a house. But building a house is indeed a big deal.

Li Guihou grinned and said, "Brother Xiandong, you are busy. You don't need to come over to help build the house. The friendship between our two families does not last for a while. I just need to trouble you one thing. I want to do something when building the house. Come use a well at your house."

By borrowing Li Xiandong's well to carry water, he doesn't have to go all the way to the public well in the village. Li Guihou planned to dig a well after his house was built. It was very convenient to have a well at home.

"Hey, my family has a lot of work, but building a house is a big deal. Let me see if I can take the time to help." Li Xiandong smiled helplessly. He has been really busy with wine making recently, and his family has a small population. There is a lot of work in the field, and it is really difficult for Li Xiandong to find time for Li Guihou to build a house at this time.

However, I can't help for a long time, but I can do other things. "The door of my house is ajar. Brother Guihou can come over anytime. You're welcome to get some water."

"Okay, Brother Xian Dong, thank you. There is one more thing I want to ask you for help with. I am going to find a master in the city to build a brick house like you, and also build such a corridor, and also install that fire wall in the room. , the floor of the main room was also painted with a layer of Sanhe soil cement. Where did you find those two masters at that time, and what were their names?"

Li Guihou's wife and daughter all worked at Li Xiandong's house. They knew that Li Xiandong's house was well built. They said that even in this muddy weather after the snow melted, the floor of Li Xiandong's house was still clean and refreshing;

There is also the corridor of Li Xiandong's house. In summer, no one is home to dry things, and there is no need to worry about heavy rain ruining things. It is convenient for drying peppers or other things;

There is also the fire wall. Only after giving birth to a baby do you realize how good it is. You are not afraid of getting sick when you are cold or hot. Li Gui's son, Li Jiacai, is also looking at her. She has successfully married her baby. Isn't it just a matter of seeing it?

Therefore, Li Guihou planned to build the house more practical and convenient first, and then slowly expand it later, so he came to ask Li Xiandong for advice.

"The master builder was introduced by someone from the masonry yard. The master's surname is Shi. Go to the masonry yard and ask. Master Shi is the master. Everyone in the masonry yard knows Shi. The master's labor price is twenty cents a day, and the young master's labor is twelve cents, so you look at how many people you can hire."

After Li Xiandong told Li Gui about the situation of hiring a master, Li Gui nodded, and the two of them talked about other details of building a house.

During this period, Li Shengyi didn't interrupt, as if he just brought his son to the house to identify him, and ignored the rest, leaving everything to Empress Li Gui.

On the contrary, when Li Xiaohan gave Li Shengyi sugar water, Li Shengyi asked her about the status of pepper breeding.

After talking for about half an hour, Li Gui then left with Li Shengyi. They had to visit Li Dashu's family next door. They would also be next door in the future. They had to tell them the date of building the house. It would be troublesome to spare time that day. help.

Li Xiaohan watched in front of the door. Li Guihou followed his father Li Shengyi and knocked on the door of Li Dashu's family next door.

It turns out that this is the correct process for building separate houses in the village.

Li Xiaohan looked back at her father worriedly. After all, they both had a father. Li Xiandong had barged in randomly. Comparison cannot explain the obvious.

However, Li Xiandong smiled innocently at her, his face didn't mind, he was just relieved.

"I went to make wine." Li Xiandong knew that his daughter was worried about him, but their family had already made it through, and the most important thing was now.

"Hey, dad, go ahead." Li Xiaohan smiled.

Yes, their family now has Panjiao, Eucommia ulmoides, and Panax notoginseng. They no longer need to look at the past or the future.

On the sixth day of February, as expected, more than a dozen big men came to the open space next door early, and they were busy mowing the grass and digging the foundation.

Li Xiandong went to help with the work with his hoe in the morning. Li Xiandong wanted to go, and Li Xiaohan also supported him. Her father was somewhat innately deficient in this area, and he could only train more the day after tomorrow.

"I originally wanted to help pick grass, but my grandfather and mother said that I am good enough and asked me to follow you." Li Hehua said with regret as he helped Li Xiaohan pick up pepper seeds. , "I also want to contribute to my new house."

But before Li Xiaohan could comfort her, Li Hehua changed the subject again, "Sister Xiaohan, do you know that the layout of my house is the same as yours, but I built a courtyard first. Do you know where my room is? No, I chose the same location as you. When the time comes, my parents and I will live in the two main rooms on the left side of the main room, and my brother and the others will live in the two main rooms on the right side of the main room."

"That's good." Li Xiaohan replied. When the time comes, the two young people Li Jiacai and Li Jiabao will live close to each other, and it will be easier to get along with the new wife when she comes in. "When you join the family, I will give you a new bedding."

"Really, Master, thank you." Li Hehua said in surprise.

The price of a new bed is nothing to Li Xiaohan, but it is of great significance to Li Hehua who has moved into a new house.

"I can't tell lies. This is a congratulatory gift just for you." Li Xiaohan said with a smile.

"Ah, Master, it's so great to have you." Li Hehua sighed and said coquettishly.

"Then you work harder and earn more money for me, and I can do better."

"Yes, Master."

By mid-February, the large frame of the winery was built. The layout of the houses built in Pingshan Village was similar, with a main room and a side room. The winery was larger, but it also had a second courtyard, and the front one was used for steaming and brewing wine. The rooms on the left and right are all kitchens and woodsheds; the back is the warehouse, and all the goods are moved in through the back door.

Li Xiaohan basically didn't have to worry about this matter. The clan leader went to visit it every now and then, and it went very smoothly.

The foundation of Li Guihou's house next door has been built and the brick walls are being erected. Li Hehua would definitely go there to take a look during her lunch break, and then come back to tell Li Xiaohan what was going on with her new home and new room.

He finished speaking enthusiastically, and then worked harder.

The Li family's earliest batch of peppers are also ready to be grown.

In last year's experiment, Li Xiaohan's first acre of pepper seeds were sown at this time, and the seedlings were ready to emerge before the spring equinox.

In this way, batch breeding, batch sowing, and batch harvesting can lengthen the harvesting cycle from the first batch of peppers to the last batch. The most important thing is that in this era of almost complete manual farming, we can Try to reduce the concentration of farmers' work and allow a little more freedom in time arrangements.

"Just like this, sow seeds evenly, cover them lightly with soil, and then water them." Li Xiaohan led Li Xiandong and Li Hehua to demonstrate in the field, and everyone around them watched intently.

This year, no one has any doubts about Li Xiaohan's planting skills. After all, everyone saw last year's bumper pepper harvest, and the Eucommia ulmoides seedlings in the village also grew strong.

Speaking of Eucommia ulmoides, Li Xiaohan remembered that his batch of Eucommia ulmoides seedlings sown last year could be transplanted to the mountains this spring.

Those are Eucommia ulmoides seedlings on fifty acres of mountainous land. If they are planted at a density of one hundred trees per mu of land, there will be five hundred seedlings. Five hundred tree pits need to be dug, and the gravel, weeds, wild trees, etc. on the sides may need to be cleared before planting in them. This is a big project, and it cannot be accomplished by my father alone.

Li Xiaohan was slightly distracted, thinking about where the manpower to dig holes and plant seedlings came from.

"Xiaohan, Xiaohan." At this moment, someone suddenly shouted.

"Hey, Brother Xinhe, what do you want from me?" Li Xiaohan raised his head and asked strangely when he saw the person coming.

Since the Chinese New Year, Brother Xinhe seems to have been immersed in studying in preparation for this autumn. When he has a little free time, he also goes to the family school to guide the primary school students who will take the scholar exam this year.

As for why Li Xiaohan knew about it, of course it was when the patriarch's wife was chatting, half proud and half worried. Now the patriarch's wife likes to talk to Li Xiaohan, as cordially as if Li Xiaohan is her daughter and Li Xinhe is Li Xiaohan's brother.

Therefore, seeing that Li Xinhe had lost a little weight, Li Xiaohan even worriedly advised, "Brother Xinhe, I heard from the patriarch that you have a hard time studying, so you should pay attention to your health. I heard that the examination room The conditions are difficult and no good body can support it."

Facing Li Xiaohan's painstaking persuasion, Li Xinhe only felt considerate, but at this moment he came to Li Xiaohan for other reasons, "Xiaohan, I understand, I will pay attention to the health issue. But, today I came to see you. You have other things. Brother Zhiyuan bought some mountain land and wants to plant some Eucommia saplings. He wants to buy some Eucommia seeds from our clan and ask you how to soak the Eucommia seeds to grow."

After Li Xinhe finished speaking, Lin Heng came out behind him and saluted with a smile, "Hello, Miss Li. Long time no see. Sorry to trouble you. Drugs and Issues 2, 5281."

"Mr. Lin, long time no see. No trouble, just wait for me." Li Xiaohan straightened up, patted the soil on his hands, and said to Li Xiandong and Li Hehua, "Dad, Hehua, we have guests, I'll go back first , you can continue here, okay?"

"Hey, you go ahead." Li Xiandong replied.

Li Xiandong had met Lin Heng several times in the market, and he didn't know why Lin Heng wrote the script of "The Light of White Wax". After all, they were mostly in Qingming Alley at that time, and the "Light of White Wax" was not known. Things were kept secret at that time.

But Li Xiandong is not worried. What Li Xinhe brought back is a scholar. He is still in Pingshan Village, so he couldn't be safer.

The fields were not the place to talk, so Li Xiaohan, Li Xinhe and Lin Heng went to the clan together.

"Do we still sell Eucommia seeds in our clan?" Li Xiaohan asked curiously.

"Yes, yes. After the eucommia trees that were not cut down on the common land in autumn last year bloomed and bore fruit, my father picked all the seeds, dried them and preserved them." Li Xinhe said.

The patriarch is really diligent and thrifty in managing his family and making money. Li Xiaohan sighed in his heart.

"I also heard from brother Xinhe that there are eucommia seeds in your clan, so I came up with the idea to buy some. After all, I have a small family, and I don't have enough manpower to plant fruit trees. I heard that eucommia trees are easier to manage and are naturally nourished. It works."

"Compared to fruit trees, Eucommia ulmoides is indeed easier to maintain." Li Xiaohan thought that only he and his widowed mother were left in Lin Heng's family. Last time, the widowed mother was not a strong and capable person. "That's right. The benefits take a little longer."

"It's okay, I'm not short of money now. Mr. Zhang is very generous with his money." Lin Heng said with a smile.

Yes, "The Light of Pewter" is famous, and the retouching fee given by Zhang Fu is amazing. There is no need to dig money in these places. Moreover, after a scholar becomes famous, he can charge higher retouching fees.

The three of them chatted for a while and soon arrived at the patriarch's house.

The clan leader quickly agreed to Lin Heng's desire to buy eucommia seeds. After all, the clan didn't need so much, so he could make a little profit by selling them.

Moreover, as Lin Heng was Li Xinhe's college classmate, he heard that he was very good at studying. Patriarch Li was even more interested in making friends with him and gave him a particularly preferential price.

Both parties were very happy. Li Xiaohan explained in detail the precautions for breeding Eucommia ulmoides, including soaking it with warm water, being careful to squeeze out the outer skin after absorbing the water, and the sowing gap of the seeds.

Lin Heng nodded while listening, and finally repeated it. I can only say that he is worthy of the IQ of the male protagonist in the original book, and his ability to grasp key points is particularly good.

After talking about Eucommia ulmoides, Lin Hengfang said goodbye and left.

"Brother Xinhe, are you so familiar with Mr. Lin?" Li Xiaohan asked. Judging from this feeling, the two of them are not like ordinary classmates at all. It is not an exaggeration to say that they are close friends. Moreover, it seems to be more familiar than when I wrote "Pewter Light" a few years ago.

"Yes! We live together in Qingshan Academy. Brother Zhiyuan is smart, upright and not pedantic. He is just like me." Li Xinhe is a person who applies what he has learned, and Lin Heng happens to be the same.

Li Xiaohan glanced at Li Xinhe and praised, "That's good too. Congratulations, Brother Xinhe, you have a close friend."

The Li family has made another good friend for the future.

"Yes, we also made an appointment to spend autumn together this year." Li Xinhe added.

"This year, Qiu Wei?" Li Xiaohan asked doubtfully. He remembered correctly. The male protagonist in the original book was Taisun Enke, who passed the imperial examination and became the first scholar in the imperial examination. Has anything changed?

"Yes, this year is the year of Autumn. Although we are not sure, brother Zhiyuan and I both want to give it a try. Originally, brother Zhiyuan said that the money saved was not enough. Fortunately, Mr. Zhang gave generous writing fees. Zhiyuan For this reason, my brother also said that he would like to thank us for introducing such a big business to him." Li Xinhe sighed, his words revealing his appreciation for Lin Heng's continuous improvement.

Li Xiaohan was confused, so he said that after saving enough money, he could try Qiuwei instead of waiting for the next year? Is it so simple?

"Brother Xinhe, Qiu Wei needs a lot of money?" Li Xiaohan knew that studying was expensive, but he still couldn't understand how expensive it was. Even the original male protagonist had to save money to take the exam. If you can't save enough, you will have to postpone it for another semester.

"Of course Qiuwei is expensive, but we are lucky. It is close to Fucheng. The children's examination and the rural examination are both in Fucheng, so the transportation cost is much less. But it is inevitable to spend a lot of extension fees to hire people to explain previous years' articles individually and purchase tutors. Books, accommodation, board and lodging expenses, etc. should also be prepared in case of winning the election to reward the government officials and pay the expenses for the same period. Unfortunately, if you fail, you have to prepare for the travel expenses back. Brother Zhiyuan's family is not rich in population, and his clan is unreliable. If you go to school, you can only save money by yourself." Li Xinhe explained.

The more Li Xiaohan listened, the more he frowned, "Then, Brother Xinhe, do you have enough money?"

If it's not enough, you can sponsor some.

"Don't worry. I'm luckier than my brother in this regard. My father still has the money, and the clan also has support." Li Xinhe said with a smile.

Seeing Li Xiaohan's interest in this, Li Xinhe said more, "We are preparing for the autumn this time. We had carefully studied the writing style preferences of the former academicians and applied for it when we felt confident. However, there has been news from the academy recently. It is said that the academic administration may be replaced, but I don't know who the new academic administration is, so I don't have confidence. But there is no need to worry, it will happen next time."

Li Xinhe deliberately said it lightly, but Li Xiaohan was not optimistic.

At this time of changing academic affairs, Li Xiaohan felt it was impossible to say that the great-grandson, who valued literary style and followed the path of civil servants, did not care about intervening in this matter.

But, who is the new academic council member?

Li Xiaohan had no clue. After all, Lin Heng had not saved enough money to not participate in this imperial examination.

After thinking hard to no avail, Li Xiaohan could only follow Li Xinhe's words and comfort him, "Brother Xinhe, you are still young, don't be in a hurry."

Li Xinhe smiled slightly when he heard this, did not say anything, and just sent Li Xiaohan home.

=== Chapter === 108

After saying goodbye to Li Xinhe and going home, Li Xiaohan decided to keep the matter of academic affairs in mind and ask Zhang Fu if he had the opportunity.

After all, although Zhang Fu's family followed the route of military commanders, Dingcheng was assigned a new academic administration. Zhang Fu should be able to find out a few things about it. Then he would see how the new academic administration was doing before making follow-up plans.

As for the imperial examination, all Li Xiaohan could think of was to understand the teacher's preferences in setting questions and correcting papers, and then answer them accordingly.

It's not easy. In such a world, if you want to establish a firm foothold, you don't know where the undercurrent will form, and then form a wave to push down your weak self.

I think I also feel helpless when writing letters, so I can only read them with all my strength.

Li Xiaohan sighed, then shook his head to get rid of the helpless feeling in his heart.

"Xiaohan, why are you back? Didn't you say that the first batch of peppers were bred today?" Wang was preparing to stir-fry the pepper base at home, when she suddenly saw Li Xiao who was going out with Li Xiandong and Li Hehua. Han Xian came back, "Have you finished sowing? Why haven't you seen Hehua and your father?"

"My father and Hehua are still in the fields. Brother Xinhe asked me for something. I will come back after I finish my work. I guess father and Hehua will be back soon." Li Xiaohan replied.

"Oh," Mrs. Wang nodded, "then Xiaohan, come and show me how the pot of pepper base I fried is like. You and Hehua are not here, so I'm a little worried about frying by myself. No idea." Wang said embarrassedly.

"Okay." Li Xiaohan said with a smile, "But I think Mom, you won't have any problems."

After all, since Aunt He came to work on the 15th day of the first lunar month, Wang has already started to learn how to stir-fry the pepper base. Mrs. Wang was already talented in the kitchen, and with Li Xiaohan and Li Hehua, she quickly got the hang of it after working a few times.

Nowadays, Li Xiaohan and Li Hehua are busy with the breeding of pepper, so they hand over the frying of the base material to Wang. After all, in two days, we have to go to Fucheng again.

In fact, Li Xiaohan is not worried about Wang's learning about frying the base ingredients, but is worried about Wang's going to Fucheng to set up a stall.

It turned out to be true, "Well, it's very good, the aroma is strong and the color is bright." Li Xiaohan praised, and then dipped a chopstick into the base that had not yet solidified to taste it, "Well, it's spicy. Fresh and fragrant, just right."

Mrs. Wang was very happy to be told by Li Xiaohan, and she breathed a sigh of relief and said, "That's good. I'm afraid I won't be sure."

"Okay. Are you relieved now?" Li Xiaohan said with a smile.

The characters of Wang and Li Xiandong are like this. They have lacked affirmation and self-confidence for a long time. No matter how well they do, they don't believe in themselves.

This lack of self-confidence can only be gradually changed by accepting more affirmations from the outside world. After so many things, Li Xiandong now has his own self-confidence in the cultivation and winemaking of peppers. Wang is almost there, after all. It was inconvenient for Li Xiaoshuang to prepare it before, but I hope that the stir-fried pepper base will give Wang a little more confidence.

"Okay." Mrs. Wang smiled sheepishly, and then said, "You just came back from outside. Go take a shower. When your father and others come back later, you can eat."

"Well, I'll go then."

Li Xiaohan's habit was to go out to do work, such as planting the fields, and come back hoping to clean them up. This was actually a very luxury thing in ancient times. After all, he had to cut firewood to heat hot water.

But Li Xiandong's house is different. He has been steaming wine and frying the pepper base. There is always hot water from the residual heat of the stove, so there is no need to boil hot water.

The firewood for steaming wine was naturally chopped back from the mountains of the clan by the clan leader.

In this way, after the steaming and brewing of wine is moved to the winery, I will not have such free hot water, which is also a loss.

Li Xiaohan's thoughts began to wander in the steaming steam, thinking about his own firewood reserves.

After all, in the past two winters, my family didn't seem to have worried about firewood.

When he just moved to his new home the year before last, Li Xiandong led the villagers to harvest eucommia bark. At that time, the villagers carried back all the eucommia firewood. I went to live in Fucheng in October last year. When I came back, the clan leader arranged for people to stock firewood for steaming wine.

Forget it, the soldiers will come to cover up the water and the earth. There are too many big and small troubles. Let's talk about it later. Li Xiaohan thought to comfort himself.

In the kitchen, Wang had already started preparing lunch. Xiaohan seemed to have something on his mind when he came back. Although it wasn't obvious, he couldn't hide it from Wang, his mother-in-law.

Mrs. Wang felt that there was not much she could do, especially because her daughter's career was so big. If Li Xiaohan didn't or couldn't say it, Li Xiandong and Mr. Wang wouldn't be able to do much, so Mr. Wang concentrated on doing something. Lunch. Now Wang gradually understands that if he can eat delicious food, Li Xiaohan will feel better.

Sure enough, when Li Xiaohan came out from the shower and ate delicious food, his eyebrows relaxed a lot, and he was in the mood to start another topic.

"Dad, for our Eucommia seedlings, do we need to find someone to help dig holes to plant the seedlings? Otherwise, we will be too busy." Li Xiaohan said to Li Xiandong.

Li Xiandong and Li Hehua came back when she was taking a shower, but Li Hehua didn't eat here. In the past few days, Li Guihou's house was built to a critical point, so Li Hehua simply ran to the side to eat with everyone at noon, and gave her some food by the way. Her mother helped me clear the dishes and other things.

"Yes." Li Xiandong nodded, "I'm going to the village to find a few people for help these days. I have to dig these holes after the pepper is bred and before the rice emerges."

After thinking about it, Li Xiandong asked again, "Is there anything I should pay attention to when transplanting Eucommia seedlings?"

Although the process of tree transplantation is similar, which is nothing more than digging a hole, applying base fertilizer, planting seedlings, returning soil, and watering, Li Xiandong still asked to be cautious.

"There's nothing special, just transplant the saplings as normal." Li Xiaohan frowned and thought about it for a while.

"That'll be done." Li Xiandong was relieved and without another word, everyone concentrated on eating again.

As for the academic affairs, the influence that Li Xiaohan was worried about regarding his great-grandson did not come to light. Another rumor about his great-grandson came.

At the Beijing Cultural Conference on February 2nd, one hundred of the best poems and essays of that day were also printed, and in a short time, they spread all over the country.

I heard that the situation that day was unprecedented and there was a gathering of talented people, so the poems and essays just seemed to flow out without thinking. It was really a grand event in the literary world.

However, after it reached Dingcheng, it was a bit distorted for some reason. And the more it spreads, the more distorted it is. By the time it reaches villages like Pingshan Village, it has almost changed.

"I heard that the ash tree in the Princess Mansion was burned from day to dusk, and the whole foot of Fengming Mountain was fragrant."

Everyone's poor imagination couldn't imagine what it would be like for the entire foot of the mountain to be fragrant, but they couldn't help but sigh, "Wow, this must be several thousand taels."

"What's a few thousand taels? It's impossible to say that tens of thousands taels have been spent." Another person who thought he was well-informed said.

The bumpkins in Pingshan Village cannot imagine the concept of tens of thousands taels. In their minds, the richest people are the landlord Zhang's family next door. It is said that Landlord Zhang's family has hundreds of acres of fertile land, they can eat as much meat as they want, and they have money buried underground. Although Landlord Zhang's son is a prodigal, the family business is still in ruins.

Such a wealthy landlord Zhang should have tens of thousands of taels at home.

Landlord Zhang: Are you kidding? I don't have it.

After talking about the white wax in the Princess Mansion, someone whispered, "I heard that this white wax came from our Dingcheng. Why? I have only heard about it and never seen that white wax." ah."

"My cousin's neighbor's uncle's second-in-law's brother's neighbor is a night incense pourer in Prince Ding's Mansion. I heard that high-ranking officials in the city have seen this scented white wax. It's expensive, really expensive." He is a well-informed relationship account.

"Oh my God, there is one in Prince Ding's Mansion. It must be expensive. I wonder what the fragrant white wax is made of. Could it be that it was brought down by the gods from the sky as mentioned in the book?"

"Who knows?"

"Uncle Fugui, what are you talking about?" Li Xiaohan was passing by the market and happened to hear the familiar word "white wax" and couldn't help but stop.

"It's Xiaohan." Li Fugui and others naturally knew Li Xiaohan. Seeing that Li Xiaohan didn't know, they quickly gave her some popular science.

"Oh, that's it. I didn't even know there were such things. Thank you, Uncle Fugui." Li Xiaohan said with a smile, but he was confused in his heart. Is this the beginning of Zhang Fu's propaganda offensive? Didn't you say it's the first day of March? Is this an early deployment? Or is it just folklore?

"Xiaohan, you have business to attend to. It's normal not to know these things. Hey, it's rare for me to chat." Li Fugui and others said a little embarrassed.

"Hey, uncle, it's rare to take a breather after finishing farm work and talk about what's going on. We don't know what the life of the nobles in the capital is like. I really didn't expect you to say this. The white wax burns from morning to night." Li Xiaohan said with a smile.

In broad daylight, burning candles just for that little bit of fragrance is luxurious enough.

"No. That's what we said too." Li Fugui and others nodded proudly.

"Uncle, you guys are busy, I'm going back first. We're still waiting for the food to be cooked at home." Li Xiaohan said, raising the ribs in his hand.

"Hey, let's go, let's go. It's almost spring plowing, so we need to make up for it."

After Li Xiaohan had gone far, people like Li Fugui still said, "Oh, you said that Xiaohan's business has become so big. He is still so frugal that he only buys ribs to replenish his health. You guys What's so good about these ribs is that there's just a certain amount of meat hanging from the bones, so it's really hard to eat. If I say it, you need a lot of fat to keep your body healthy, and it's full of fat. It couldn't be more real. ."

"Yes, that's the truth. If you don't have to buy the fat meat, then the fat pork belly is okay, but the lean meat is a bit woody."

"The bones are also good. The bone marrow oil is sizzling. Even though it's more expensive now, it's still a good deal before."

"No."

So the topic gradually became distorted again.

What everyone in Pingshan Village knows, why doesn't Patriarch Li know? Patriarch Li knows more, but now Patriarch Li is a little hesitant. Li Xinhe is studying in the academy again, and Patriarch Li doesn't want to disturb him. My son, I went to the smart young people in the clan and asked.

"Patriarch, you said that the village leader is looking for you today and wants you to come to Fucheng on March 5th to learn about white wax insect breeding?"

"Yes, I heard that the village chiefs are going there. Alas, the news from the village chiefs should be true, but I heard that the white wax insect is a kind of insect on the tree that produces wax like a bee. I just don't know how easy it is to raise this white wax insect."

Chief Li sighed and continued, "And recently, you don't know, the prices of the nearby mountains have become more expensive. You said that the new batch of mountains purchased by our clan is to be kept. It's better to plant this ash tree, or Eucommia ulmoides."

Chief Li actually wanted to find out the news. After all, Li Xiaohan had secretly reminded himself to buy mountainous land for the clan.

If such a coincidence was just a coincidence, Patriarch Li would definitely not believe it. Maybe Li Xiaohan got some news in advance, but he couldn't tell himself clearly and notified himself in advance.

Li Xiaohan looked at the clan leader who was like an old fox, and knew that clan leader Li had guessed something, so he said with a smile, "Clan leader, I can only say that the white waxworm thing is definitely true. But , this promotion cannot be spread all over the mountains and plains at once. This ash tree cannot be planted and used immediately. In our clan, how many acres of newly purchased forest land are there? "

"One hundred and fifty acres."

"Then what are you worried about, Patriarch? One hundred and fifty acres will definitely not be fully planted in the first round. And when it comes to getting rich, it is about what I have when I don't have what I have, and I am better when I have others. Think about it, Patriarch. no."

Li Xiaohan said that it would be best to plant all Eucommia trees. After the ash is promoted, the price will definitely fall. But from the Eucommia trees, she has already figured out how to extract Eucommia gum. She is just waiting for the Eucommia trees to grow and the time is ripe. .

She was planning to make a fortune from this secret recipe of Eucommia Gum. At this time, how could she not bring it to the clan.

It's just that now, it's not easy to tell the clan leader this secret directly. I just hope the clan leader can understand it.

Patriarch Li came to see Li Xiaohan, but he only got a vague answer, as if he didn't say anything, and he seemed to have said something.

Patriarch Li glanced at Li Xiaohan. It was the same way when Li Xiaohan hinted that he was buying mountain land. Could it be the same this time?

Patriarch Li came with questions and left with more questions.

On the first day of March, suddenly a group of officials came straight to the village. The villagers in the fields thought something had happened. Some people ran straight to Patriarch Li's house, while others followed closely behind. , see what's going on.

I saw that the team of official officers was not going to the village chief's home as the villagers thought, but went straight to Li Xiandong's home, the most remote place in the village.

I saw the official stopped at the door of Li Xiandong's house again. The first official got off his horse and knocked on the door of Li Xiandong's house.

When the door of Li's house opened and Li Xiaohan came out, the villagers were far away. They could vaguely hear voices, but nothing happened. Then Li Xiaohan came out with the official, carrying a baggage on his back.

The curiosity of the villagers has reached its highest level at this time.

Fortunately, the patriarch and the third uncle also arrived in a hurry at this time. The bold villagers followed the patriarch and the third uncle to the official mission as if they had gained courage.

At this time, I saw clearly that the young man next to the biggest official was Mr. Zhang. Patriarch Li breathed a sigh of relief, "Master, I am the head of this village. I wonder what the reason for your visit is?"

"Village Chief Li." The official smiled kindly and explained patiently, "I was about to go and tell the village chief that on the order of King Ding, we have recruited Miss Li Xiaohan to go to Fucheng to teach the villagers how to breed white waxworms. One thing. If I remember correctly, the time allocated near Pingshan Village is the fifth day of March, which is the first batch. Then you can see Miss Li."

"Yeah, okay, okay." Patriarch Li didn't react for a moment, too much information was connected in his mind.

"Patriarch, I'm going to be away for a while. I've handed over the winemaking and pepper matters at home to my father and Hehua. If you have any questions, just ask my father and Hehua." Li Xiaohan faced Clan Chief Li said.

"Okay, okay, feel free to go." Patriarch Li had half recovered and looked at Li Xiaohan with wide eyes.

Li Xiaohan smiled apologetically at the surprised Patriarch Li, and then said to Li Xiandong and Wang, "Father, mother, I'm leaving first, don't worry about me. If anything happens, you can send someone to Tongfu Restaurant to help." I'll just pass on the message."

Li Xiandong and Wang knew that Li Xiaohan was going to teach about the cultivation of white wax insects, but they didn't expect that the official would come to invite them in person. They were even more excited and proud, "Okay, okay, we understand." You take care of yourself."

At the end of the day, I was worried again. She was a little girl after all. If the family couldn't spare her time, there should be an adult accompanying her.

No matter how Li Xiaohan said that she could go alone and it was very safe to go to the government, the official said that she should be alone. Now it seems that the official is easy to talk to.

Thinking of this, Li Xiandong and Wang ignored their timidity and hurriedly said to Zhang Fu, "Mr. Zhang, my Xiaohan will leave it to you."

"Uncle and aunt, please don't worry, I will definitely take good care of Miss Li." Zhang Fu said.

"Mom and dad, don't worry, I will take care of myself." Li Xiaohan said, "You go back."

"Hey, hey,"

Knowing that Li Xiandong and Wang would never go back first if he didn't leave, Li Xiaohan turned around and walked towards the carriage that came with him.

Zhang Fu was standing by to help open the curtain, lowered his head and smiled, "Miss Li, please."

"Her father..." Wang hugged Li Xiaoshuang and called Li Xiandong worriedly.

Li Xiandong suddenly followed Li Xiaohan in three steps and climbed into the carriage. "Xiaohan, I will take you to Fucheng and see you settle down before coming back."

Li Xiaohan was stunned for a moment, then showed a bright smile, "Hey. Dad."

Outside the car, Zhang Fu nodded gently to the official.

"Her mother, I will send Xiaohan to Fucheng for resettlement. Then come back. Wait for me at your home."

"Hey." Mrs. Wang responded happily.

Everyone in Pingshan Village watched the official follow the carriage, farther and farther away, and gradually disappeared, and they couldn't recover for a long time.

"My dear, there is smoke coming out of our Li family's ancestral grave."

I don't know how much time passed, and I don't know who among the onlookers said something with emotion.

=== Chapter === 109

Seeing the official leave, Patriarch Li felt that his mind was in a mess.

Xiao Han was actually invited by an official to teach and cultivate white wax insects? !

That is to say, the rumor that the scented white wax came from Dingcheng is true, and Xiaohan was one of the discoverers, otherwise no official would have asked her to teach and cultivate white wax insects.

Now that the cultivation of white waxworms has been made public, the official also said that his village will be the first batch on March 5th, so he must be taking care of himself for Xiaohan's sake.

No, not only this place, but also years ago, Xiaohan had already hinted to himself that he had bought the mountain land long ago. I think after this wave, the price of Dingcheng Mountain will increase significantly.

Sure enough, there is a capable person in the clan who can't live without eating meat and drinking soup.

However, Patriarch Li was suddenly shocked. He remembered correctly. The Xiaohan family planned to plant eucommia seedlings on their fifty acres of mountain land this year.

How could this happen? Shouldn't we plant some ash trees to raise ash worms?

Also, when I told Xiaohan about the white wax before, although Xiaohan couldn't tell him directly because the government hadn't announced it yet, he must have given him a hint.

Patriarch Li tried his best to recall the content of his previous conversation with Li Xiaohan. By the way, what he said at that time was, "I have what others don't have, and I have the advantage of what others have."

I have what others don't have, and I am superior to what others have.

These eight characters are so intriguing no matter how you ponder them. Patriarch Li wanted to think carefully, but the surrounding environment made it impossible for him to think quietly.

"Mother Xiaohan, Xiaohan was taken over by the government to teach everyone how to breed white waxworms? Are white waxworms the same as raising silkworms? Did she tell you before?"

Insect farming, according to the villagers' inertia, is like raising silkworms. They pick leaves from trees and take them home to raise them carefully. Maybe there are white waxworms living in a certain room of the Li family.

Can you go in and have a look?

The villagers thought very curiously.

Mrs. Wang was stunned for a moment when she was asked. Seeing all the villagers outside the door staring at her, she couldn't help but feel a little timid. She subconsciously hugged Li Xiaoshuang tightly in her arms, and then He quickly loosened his grip, encouraged himself, and whispered in a low voice, "Xiaohan has said that she is going to Fucheng during this period, but the government won't let her talk. She didn't say much."

"That's true, I definitely won't be allowed to tell you in advance." The villager sighed in disappointment.

"So, mother Xiaohan, what will your family grow this year?" asked a smart and clever person.

"Grow pepper and plant Eucommia ulmoides." Wang knew this. She couldn't say it with Panax notoginseng, but she could say it with the other two.

"Isn't there anything else?" Some people didn't believe it and insisted on asking for some inside information on how to make a fortune.

Wang pursed her lips, not knowing what to say.

"Okay, what are you talking about here? I haven't heard of it. Mr. Guan asked all village chiefs to receive training. Our village will be the first batch on March 5th. Why, you still want to compare with my village? The elder would have known earlier." Chief Li said, glaring at the villager.

"Well, Patriarch, Patriarch, I'll just ask, ask." The speaker replied with a flattering smile.

"Any question, who are you, I have to answer it for you. Go home quickly and do your work. Has the land been plowed, and have the seeds been selected?"

"Yes, yes, patriarch." As soon as Patriarch Li showed his power, no one in the village dared to ask.

"Mom Xiaohan, go back and close the door. When Xiandong comes back, tell him to come over and look for me." Patriarch Li turned to Wang and said in a gentle tone. A lot.

"Hey, patriarch." Wang immediately took Aunt He back.

"Let's go, let's go." Li Hehua and others followed behind and waved, and they also reacted. "If you have anything to do, wait until my master comes back."

After saying that, several people from the Lijia Brewery retreated and closed the door from the inside.

When everyone outside the door took a look, they couldn't ask any more questions and could only disperse in frustration.

inside the door.

"Madam, don't worry about them. Look at our eldest girl, please try your best. I promise, this is the first time I've heard of "officers coming to pick up people" in Fucheng. It's really the first time I've seen it. You should be happy. ." Aunt He said with a blushing face, feeling that she had gained another level of knowledge.

When I return home from vacation this month, I must tell all my old neighbors that she is not going to work in some rural place. There is no girl in this city who can do as much as their eldest daughter. She, Lao He, is really lucky to be able to work for the older girl.

A smile appeared on Mrs. Wang's face. She just didn't react for a moment, but now the villagers were just curious and asked a few more questions. Mrs. Wang was not only not annoyed, but also felt quite proud.

Look, her daughter is so outstanding, but no one knows it.

"I'm happy. Let's kill a chicken tonight. I have to tell my ancestors about it." Wang said, she had to talk to her mother-in-law and ask her mother-in-law to wish Xiaohan everything goes well in Fucheng.

"Hey, madam." Aunt He deserved to be crisp and bright.

By the time Li Hehua came to the backyard to take a look, Mrs. Wang had already directed Aunt He to catch the chickens. Well, there was no need to say anything else.

It was about mid-afternoon when Li Xiandong returned home.

"Have you eaten? I left some food for you at home. I'll heat it up for you." Wang and others had just finished eating.

"No, I'll eat in Fucheng and then come back." Li Xiandong said with a wide smile. It was the first time in his life that he ate the food in Fucheng.

After hearing Li Xiandong say that he had eaten, Wang stopped busy and just asked, "How is Xiaohan?"

"Living next to the government office, there is a room dedicated to her. It couldn't be safer. There is also an old lady who takes care of her, and food and supplies are brought here. Don't worry. The food is good, I We ate together with Xiaohan, including meat and vegetables. They were not frozen. There was a fire pit in the house, as well as a charcoal pot, and a small charcoal stove to boil water for drinking. The official also asked Xiaohan whether it was comfortable to live there. You can ask for anything you need." Li Xiandong said, and detailed what he saw and heard when he went to the government office.

"That's good, that's good." Mrs. Wang listened with great interest and kept saying after listening.

Aunt He smacked her tongue when she heard it, and she quickly wrote it down so she could play it again when she goes home on vacation.

"I'm not at home, what's wrong?" Li Xiandong asked again. He left in a hurry at that time. It turned out that Xiaohan expected that he would stay at home. He didn't know if Wang could hold on after he left.

"Ah, someone in the village asked a few questions, but the clan leader said he went back. The clan leader also asked you to come back and find him."

"Oh, I'll go now." Li Xiandong stood up and said.

"Do you want to take a rest?" Wang asked. After all, he was coming back to Fucheng.

"It's okay, I'm not tired. I took a carriage when I went there, and Mr. Zhang hired a carriage for me when I came back." Li Xiandong didn't feel tired at all, and even felt a lot of excitement. He just wanted to say something to others. .

Hearing the carriage coming and going, Wang was no longer worried, "Okay, you go. Don't delay the clan leader's affairs."

Li Xiandong went to the patriarch's house, just to tell him what he had seen and heard in that city.

"Does Xiaohan have anything to say to me?" Patriarch Li asked unwillingly.

"No. You haven't looked for her before. Besides, all the officials are here." Li Xiandong said strangely.

That's right, what should be said and what can be said has already been said. Xiaohan is so smart, how could he wait until this time? Patriarch Li thought secretly.

"Okay, Xiandong, I know everything. Can you handle the fifty acres of Eucommia seedlings at home? Do you want the clan to come forward and help find some manpower?"

"No need, we have made arrangements before. I have already made an appointment with someone I know well in the clan."

Patriarch Li glanced at Li Xiandong again, and then said, "Okay, that's it, the winery and pepper breeding, as well as your family. If you have any questions or needs, you can come to me."

"Hey, patriarch, I understand. Then I'll go back first."

"Well. You go back first. I have some things to think about."

Li Xiandong didn't ask what Patriarch Li needed to think about. The Patriarch had so many things to think about.

On the contrary, Patriarch Li walked around the main room of his house, almost stepping on the floor tiles loose, and finally made a decision: the clan's Eucommia seeds would no longer be sold. When I came back after the fifth day of the Lunar New Year, there were no problems, so I planted all the seeds myself.

In Pingshan Village, Li Xiaohan caused a huge stir, but in Fucheng, Li Xiaohan's side was not as peaceful as Li Xiandong said.

In Fucheng, in a small courtyard next to the government office, Li Xiaohan and Zhang Fu were sitting in a pavilion in the garden. They could see no one else in all directions.

Therefore, when it comes to making secrets, it is best to find a place with no obstructions from all sides to minimize the possibility of someone eavesdropping behind the door, behind the pillar, or behind the house.

"How did I hear that there was a cultural conference held in the capital on February 2nd? I heard that the princess burned a tree of ash." Li Xiaohan asked. This is different from the publicity plan they said at the beginning. Of course, this The effect is even better. There is nothing more eye-catching than the gossip in the capital.

"I have been collecting ash trees and ash seeds from various places recently. I haven't had time to tell you." Zhang Fu raised the teacup and poured a cup of tea for Li Xiaohan. "His Royal Highness Taisun in the capital has such a fine writing style that he held this ceremony." On February 2nd, I attended the Qushui Drinking Party. Originally, this matter was just over, but the princess likes white wax, so I tried my best to have someone supply a batch."

I wanted to promote Taisun's literary name, but ended up burning a tree of white wax that could anchor the city. This effect cannot but be said to be a bit ironic and contrasting.

"But no one told the princess? What if the grandson doesn't like it?" Li Xiaohan asked. Logically speaking, if the princess makes such a stupid move, someone should remind her.

"After the death of the prince, this is the only sister left who has the same father and mother. Your Majesty loves her very much. The grandson is very close to the princess's aunt, and there are not many people that the princess can listen to."

Li Xiaohan frowned.

No, there is a person who puts himself in the Taisun's shoes and considers it. This person, no matter in terms of identity, status, or wisdom, will not let such mistakes happen to the Grand Sun's event. As a result, Dingcheng caught this loophole, and what finally spread to Dingcheng was not the grandson's literary name, but the princess's luxury.

This person is His Majesty the Emperor. In His Majesty's heart, the princess should not be as important as the grandson.

However, if he is not persuaded now, it is very likely that something has happened to His Majesty.

"There is always someone who can persuade the princess."

Li Xiaohan looked at Zhang Fu and asked slowly and word by word.

Zhang Fu's eyes seemed to be filled with surprise, and as if he knew that Li Xiaohan would ask of course, with a hint of smile and tacit understanding, "We also got the news recently."

Zhang Fu looked at the sky and lowered his voice again, "I'm sick."

Spying on the emperor's traces is a capital offense.

There was silence for a moment.

The spring breeze blew slightly, with a biting chill.

Rumor has it that there will be a wave of late spring cold before spring really warms up.

=== Chapter === 110

When he heard the news that the emperor was ill, Li Xiaohan didn't feel happy. He only felt goose bumps rising layer by layer, and the chill all over his body couldn't be stopped just by the hot tea in his hand.

The most obvious characteristic of a dynasty's instability is that there is a problem with the central government, resulting in the loss of control over the local areas. Ritual and music collapsed, and turmoil broke out.

Although the plot had predicted that this moment would definitely come, when this moment really began to arrive, Li Xiaohan still felt waves of fear.

Fear of the turbulent political situation; fear of the historical trend that no matter how strong an individual is, he can only move forward without being able to control his own destiny; fear of the huge unknown.

What kind of crazy actions would a founding emperor who was dying of old age and illness make in order to protect the country he had built with his own hands?

A great grandson who hurriedly rose to power, had quite a literary reputation, but was secretly controlled everywhere, even the princess could not stop him. How would such an heir and director of the country stabilize his position?

There is also a seemingly noble princess who knows nothing about politics but is almost intimidated by others. Who knows what she wants?

A rational and normal opponent is not scary, but an opponent who has mastered huge power but is irrational and abnormal, you can never guess what kind of tricks he will use. If you can't guess it, you won't be able to prepare for it properly.

There are three such people in the imperial court.

Li Xiaohan is not worried about King Ding. This is the man of destiny and the final winner.

She was only worried about weak commoners like herself who were not in the eyes of the nobles. She was afraid that a fight at the city gate would bring disaster to Chiyu. The law of drama viewing: people around the protagonist are likely to die early.

Li Xiaohan took a sip of hot tea and couldn't help but start thinking about what he should do if the situation came to the worst. Are you fully prepared now? What else do you need to prepare?

"Are you cold?" Zhang Fu asked worriedly when he saw Li Xiaohan frowning, covering the teacup with both hands, and taking sip after sip of hot tea, "Or are you afraid?"

really weird!

Zhang Fu thought to himself, Miss Li is such a bold and intelligent person, and it is obviously such a good opportunity, but Miss Li is not happy but scared.

Li Xiaohan raised his eyes to look at Zhang Fu, only to see confusion in his eyes.

Or maybe the opponent sees opportunities from the perspective of a chess player in charge of the chess game, and he sees risks from his position as a chess piece?

"Miss Li?" Zhang Fu poured another cup of hot tea for Li Xiaohan who had an empty cup.

Li Xiaohan finally came back to his senses, drank the hot tea in one gulp, forced a smile and said, "I'm fine, I just suddenly remembered that I heard a certain person say something."

"What words?"

"I'm afraid when others are crazy, and I'm crazy when others are afraid."

I don't know if what the legendary stock investor Warren Buffett said is true or not, but I think it's appropriate to use it here.

However, politics itself is the biggest investment. Lu Buwei once said, "The profit of cultivating the fields is ten times, the profit of pearls and jade is a hundred times, and the master of establishing a country can win countless profits." (1)

It can be seen that investing in a future king can make people crazy.

"I'm afraid when others are crazy, and I'm crazy when others are afraid." Zhang Fu repeated in a murmur, and involuntarily took a sip of hot tea.

There was silence for a moment, and I don't know how long it took. Li Xiaohan broke the silence and said, "Let's continue talking about the white wax worm."

Whether it is madness or fear, the most important thing is action. The actions you should take should be strictly implemented regardless of your mood.

Zhang Fu came to his senses and said, "Miss Li is right."

However, Zhang Fu did not immediately continue the topic of the white wax insect. Instead, he raised his hand and raised his voice and said, "Green Bamboo."

Qingzhu in the distance walked over quickly and said, "Sir."

"Find Miss Li a hand-warming cage."

"Yes, sir."

Qingzhu quickly retreated, and Zhang Fu stood up and lowered half of the straw mats around the pavilion to block the cold spring breeze.

After doing this, he sat down naturally and said, "Miss Li, drink some hot water first. Qingzhu will be back soon."

Li Xiaohan glanced at him in surprise. Hey, this person didn't just know how to drink more hot water.

Zhang Fu didn't show anything else, as if doing this was normal, and continued, "As for the cultivation of white waxworms, after the beginning of spring, we have sent people to various places to pick the ash trees you mentioned, including some The reddish-brown hard-shelled ash insects lay their eggs on privet trees and ash willows, and then put them in bamboo baskets to ventilate and dry. Now they have been dried and are being shipped to Fucheng one after another."

Now that he was about to get down to business, Li Xiaohan also retracted his mind and said, "Well, white wax insects are afraid of heat. They must not be piled up in one place to get hot. This will cause the eggs inside to die of heat."

After a pause, Li Xiaohan asked again, "Have the ash trees near Fucheng been pruned and weeded?"

Li Xiaohan called the ash tree he was not used to, and the one he was used to called ash tree. The crown of a tree that supports ash beetles should not be too sparse or too dense, and the bottom grass and weeds should be removed as much as possible.

"In the past, the ash forest... and even the ash forest were fine and were managed on a daily basis. But the newly transplanted ash trees from various places were directly infected with insects. Those tree farmers said they were afraid of damage."

"...There is no other way. Time is too short. It was not easy to transplant trees last autumn and winter. Now we can only try to minimize the impact. The newly transplanted trees will have fewer insect eggs when the time comes."

"Well. That's all we can do. We will set out outside the city tomorrow. The farmers who planted the ash trees before are already ready. Let's start with them first." Zhang Fu said.

"Is he an experienced farmer who has been planting ash trees?" Li Xiaohan asked.

This was very important to her, so although she kept hearing her roommate talk about white wax insects, after all, the medicinal forest where she later worked did not breed white wax insects. Therefore, she has rich theoretical experience, but not practical experience, which requires the assistance of some experienced farmers.

"We are all farmers who have been managing ash trees for many years. We have sent people to ask carefully before. Every year before the awns are planted, some of the knots on the trees, which are now ash beetle seeds, begin to grow thin. The thin insect eggs begin to form a layer of white frost-like wax in August and September, which is consistent with the characteristics you described. But I never knew about it in the past. This kind of insect is not harmful, so I didn't pay much attention to it." Zhang Fu comforted.

Li Xiaohan breathed a sigh of relief. At least white waxworms can grow naturally. What they are doing now is artificial cultivation to increase production. As for the amount of increased production, I have not said anything, but it will probably be more or less.

The development of things moves forward step by step. As long as the path is correct, it can always be explored and perfected step by step. Li Xiaohan encouraged himself, he had no choice but to do it hard.

"That's fine. Let's leave tomorrow. I have no problem."

"Don't worry too much. We haven't touched the ash insect eggs that were originally on the ash trees. At least the ash insects that originally grew on these trees are guaranteed. We will also try our best to remove the other eggs that are hanging on the trees. Already." Zhang Fu comforted.

This stall suddenly grew so big that no one under King Ding questioned it, and the pressure on his side was not small.

"Yes. Do your best and do your best." Li Xiao took a breath and said.

Early on the morning of March 2nd, outside Dingcheng, at the village where Zhang Fu took Li Xiaohan that day, the head of the village was already waiting with someone.

As the first Zhuangzi to discover ash and one of the Zhuangzi who planted the most ash trees outside Dingcheng, Zhuangtou always thought that he could only plant trees in his life and occasionally peel off the bark to use as medicinal materials. This was how he lived his whole life. .

Unexpectedly, fate is so miraculous. I thought that Mr. Zhang Ergong brought Miss Li here just on a whim. After all, hearing about the hobbies of noble people is always strange.

However, even if the noble man was just joking, Zhuangtou took it seriously. However, things gradually went beyond Zhuangtou's expectation. When more and more hoarfrost collected on the branches, when he, who had never been around all year round, Group after group of people came to visit Zhuangzi. Finally, because of his outstanding achievements in managing Zhuangzi, the head of the village was promoted to participate in the refining of white wax.

Looking back now, Zhuangtou suddenly realized what Mr. Zhang and Miss Li had cooked in Zhuangzi's kitchen on that extremely ordinary day, with that seemingly playful order.

From that moment on, my destiny changed. I, my sons and grandsons, and the people in my village no longer had to plant trees, cut bark, and cut branches here without anyone paying attention.

Zhuangtou, who was ambitious, now learned that he, Zhuangzi, had been chosen as the first Zhuangzi to breed white wax worms. He was so excited that he stayed awake for several nights.

Early in the morning on March 2nd, before dawn, Zhuangtou packed up early and took his people to wait aside.

Seeing the large group of people approaching on the road ahead, Zhuangtou slightly narrowed his eyes and made a careful distinction. Well, the man on the horse was the young master, and the one on the carriage should be Miss Li.

The crowd was getting closer and closer, Zhuangtou lowered his head slightly to show respect, but his heartbeat was getting faster and faster.

He always felt that ever since he met Miss Li, he would no longer be an ordinary village head.

The carriage stopped in front of Zhuangzi. The head of the village only saw a green skirt getting off the carriage, and heard a crisp female voice saying, "Let's go see the trees first?"

"Sure. Let's go up the mountain first." A male voice replied, "Zhuangtou, lead the way."

"Yes, Young Master, Miss Li." Zhuang Tou hurriedly stepped forward to lead the way. This moment had been rehearsed thousands of times in his mind, but at this moment, Zhuang Tou was still asking himself along the way, how can he manage by himself on weekdays? Zhuangzi is doing his best, so there won't be anything wrong with him now.

However, Zhuang Toubai was worried. Zhang Fu and Li Xiaohan were still very satisfied with the growth of the ash trees in Zhuangzi.

"Look, this should be it." Li Xiaohan said to the shell-like lump on a slightly lower ash branch.

The seeds of the white waxworm do not look like a bug when mature, but look like a small fruit. The eggs are protected in the thick and elastic shell.

"Yeah. Were there these things in previous years?" Zhang Fu asked Zhuangtou, pointing to them.

"Back to the young master, it has always happened in the past years. In the past, when we saw it, we would always clean up some, but there were always high places or places where people couldn't see that couldn't be cleaned up. This year, we didn't clean up after receiving the order." Zhuangtou raised his head. Come on, I replied after carefully looking at these little bumps.

These things look like fruits, but after being squeezed open, there are still insect eggs inside, so the villagers know it.

I just didn't know this insect was so capable. Zhuangtou felt heartbroken when he thought of those bugs he had killed by poking him to death.

After receiving Zhuangtou's affirmative answer, Zhang Fu and Li Xiaohan no longer had any doubts, and carefully observed the white waxworm seeds elsewhere. This brought a lot of confidence to both of them. At least with these, no matter what, they would not be worse than before.

"Are those seedlings in the distance newly planted this year?" Li Xiaohan asked, looking into the distance and squinting slightly.

Zhuangtou quickly replied, "Yes, Miss Li, those are the new seedlings that came out after the seeds were planted last autumn and winter."

In the past, there was no need to plant so many seedlings, but last autumn, an order was suddenly issued requiring all seeds to be planted, so now there is a patch of seedlings that have just grown, which is very conspicuous.

"Have you used branch cuttings to raise seedlings this spring? Where?" Li Xiaohan asked.

Generally, there are two methods of tree breeding, seed seedlings and cutting seedlings, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Now, in order to quickly spread ash trees around Dingcheng, both methods can be used.

"It's on another hill, just separated. You can't see it from here. Does Miss Li want to take a look?" Zhuangtou asked.

"What method did you use to raise new seedlings in the past?" Li Xiaohan did not reply, but asked.

"In the past, seeds were mostly used for breeding. The seeds were sown every autumn and winter, and spring seedlings would be produced around this time next year. The cutting breeding that Miss Li mentioned, we also planted in batches this year. According to the girl's instructions, we selected a finger Cut a strong branch of about one foot in length, cut the lower end into a diagonal section, soak it in plant ash water and insert it into the soft soil."

Speaking of this, Zhuangtou was even more respectful, "We went to see them a few days ago. These seedlings have grown roots, and the earliest seedlings have grown new branches."

This method is more convenient and faster. Zhuangtou thinks that he has been planting trees for most of his life. In the past, he always thought that seed cultivation was the right way. Unexpectedly, the kind of seedling cultivation by cuttings that Miss Li mentioned can be done in large quantities and is much more efficient than seed cultivation.

Li Xiaohan turned to look at Zhang Fu, "Shall we go take a look?"

"Yes." Zhang Fu nodded without objection.

The group of people followed Zhuangtou down the mountain and walked to the top of another mountain. It is said to be the top of a mountain, but it is actually a slightly undulating slope. Because it is low and it is just on the other side of the mountain just now, it cannot be seen.

But, "So many cuttings?" Li Xiaohan asked in surprise.

"Well, in the past, ash trees were taboo as the raw material for gun bodies, so not many people planted them. Now in order to promote them as quickly as possible, we need to distribute as many seedlings to the people as possible. Most of them here will. They will be distributed to village chiefs as seedlings." Zhang Fu explained in a low voice.

"No more taboos now?" Li Xiaohan asked in a lowered voice. She didn't understand much about this area, but how did her attitude become so big?

"Well, the lethality of a weapon lies in martial arts. Without martial arts or a custom-made gun head, the lethality of a gun body is not much different from that of a hoe."

In fact, there is still a difference. In the hands of a master who truly understands martial arts, a spear is much more lethal than a hoe. Otherwise, why would the spears in King Ding's army have to be made of ash wood?

It's just that such masters are in the minority among the people.

"Then...where is the imperial court?" Li Xiaohan looked around. The people around him were far away and their voices were low and inaudible.

"The imperial court did not directly order a ban on the planting of ash. In the past, King Ding always suppressed the amount of ash planted around the city to show his own will. Now, for the sake of people's livelihood, it has naturally been relaxed." Zhang Fu said solemnly.

"Oh." Li Xiaohan understood.

King Ding used a spear and had a pike army under his command. He had a good relationship with the emperor at that time. To show his loyalty, he voluntarily suppressed the planting of ash among the people. The wood needed by King Ding was directly planted openly, and he may have reported it to the court. Excessive planting scale.

Therefore, the court knows how many seeds the king will plant, and there is a tacit understanding between the two parties.

Now that the relationship is tense, King Ding may still have some self-protection or other thoughts, so he simply doesn't suppress it. They even took advantage of the opportunity of white wax to directly promote it.

If the court asked about it, they would just say that they wanted to plant trees to raise insects. The imperial court also used white wax, and the people also needed some wax.

When it comes to the public, it involves a reputation issue. No minister or king is willing to face the infamy and say that people cannot light candles.

It can be said in a matter of minutes that it will be written into the history books and will be infamy for thousands of years.

The monarchy and patriarchal power are also suppressed. Some emperors who pursue fame during life and after death dare not openly confront the people.

No wonder this white wax insect has been promoted so smoothly.

There are so many tricks to play in politics.

Li Xiaohan looked at the ash saplings all over the mountains and fields, and was dazzled for a moment, unable to tell whether they were candles or spears.

=== Chapter === 111

"Let's go down."

Although he knew the direction of the plot and knew that politics sometimes does not talk about black and white but only positions, Li Xiaohan did not want to go into too much depth. Maybe if you don't go deep into it, you can avoid changing and becoming a vague member of it.

After seeing the seedlings, Miss Li continued talking. Naturally, the others had no objections, and the group went down the mountain and returned to the village.

"Miss Li, the ash worms are here. They are all in this row of houses. Because Miss Li said that ash worms cannot be covered to get hot, we used a large bamboo dustpan to spread it into a thin layer and put it in a cool place. , flip it gently with bamboo chopsticks three times a day."

Zhuangtou said while pointing to a row of houses in front and pushing open one of the doors. When the door opened, I saw rows and rows of wooden shelves. About a foot apart on the shelves, there was a layer of bamboo dustpans spread out by an adult man with his hands spread wide. As expected, the dustpans were spread out just as Zhuangtou said. Cover with a thin layer of ash worm seeds.

Li Xiaohan walked up and looked at these white wax insect species. They were all reddish-brown in color. He picked up one of them and pressed it gently with his fingers. The shell dented and then bounced back to its original shape. This is what my roommate said is the characteristic of mature white wax insect species.

Feeling relieved again, Li Xiaohan did not put back the insect species that he had touched with his hands. After all, the insect species had been contaminated by touching, and he slowly observed other insect species.

When he reached one of the places, Li Xiaohan looked down for a long time before slowly speaking with uncertainty, "Look, are there any insect eggs crawling out here?"

Zhang Fu and Zhuang Tou quickly walked forward, and the three of them lowered their heads to take a closer look.

In the bamboo dustpan in front of you, on the surface of the reddish-brown insect species, there are a few very inconspicuous flesh-colored insects smaller than rice grains crawling slowly on it. You can't see it if you don't pay attention.

"There are larvae, but I don't know if they are white waxworm larvae." Zhang Fu said. Before this, he had never observed an insect so carefully in his life.

"It looks like the larvae of insects on the tree in previous years." Zhuangtou recalled carefully and said.

Li Xiaohan saw that they kept the insect seeds very cleanly and carefully, so it couldn't be any other insect species. He calculated in his mind that if the white waxworm hatched early in March this spring, it would be around this time that the eggs would be hatched. .

Great, this proves that there were no errors that they did not consider during the picking and transportation of these seed worms, resulting in the accidental death of the eggs.

Their method is correct.

This is the part that Li Xiaohan is most worried about. If the eggs in the seeds die due to improper storage, then all their efforts will be in vain, and no matter how good they are later, it will be useless.

On the contrary, now that the insect eggs are alive, they will proceed step by step carefully, and they will always gain more or less.

The biggest crisis was over. Li Xiaohan looked carefully at the bugs moving around and felt that they had never been so cute.

Finally having seen enough, Li Xiaohan raised his head slightly, wanting to say something but not knowing how. Just at this time, Zhang Fu from the opposite side also raised his head. The two looked at each other, and both saw a sigh of relief in the other's eyes, and everything was gone.

"It's time to get rid of the bagworm." With a smile, Li Xiaohan said softly but firmly, and Zhang Fu had a smile in his eyes.

"Yes." Zhuangtou suppressed his excitement in his tone.

Early the next morning, in Zhuangzi's courtyard, Zhuangtou followed with others, while Li Xiaohan stood in front to demonstrate.

"For ash worm hydatid, you need to pick ash leaves first, dry them in the sun, wipe off the sediment and other stains, and then wrap about ten worm seeds into one bag. After wrapping, use Plug a dozen small holes in the top of the bamboo stick to facilitate the crawling out of insect eggs, and insert two small holes on the left and right sides below to facilitate the drainage of accumulated water."

Li Xiaohan repeated the key points in his mouth, while wrapping ten white wax insect seeds into a bag with both hands lightly and flexibly, and then used a small bamboo stick to brush the holes. His movements were light and crisp, with just the right amount of force. The worm bags came out neat and strong.

It was not in vain that she and Zhang Fu hid in the house and practiced secretly for a long time yesterday afternoon.

Sure enough, one minute on stage and ten years of success off stage. She looks so convincing now, which is also the result of secretly practicing.

"Okay, after tying one worm bag, tie another worm bag, tie the two worm bags with a knot at the stem of the leaf, tie the two worm bags together, and place them in a bright place to let the eggs hatch, and they will hatch neatly Then choose a mild and sunny day and hang it on the tree to let the eggs crawl out of the fixed leaves."

…

After finishing these key points, Li Xiaohan made another inspection tour to guide the unskilled farmers and answer some of their questions. Then he sat back in the main room and drank two sips of tea.

"How is it?" Zhang Fu asked Li Xiaohan as he filled a cup of tea.

"It went very well. I found two dustpan eggs crawling out today. I think they are the same batch." Li Xiaohan said relaxedly, and then hesitantly said, "I'm thinking about one thing. Do you think it's better to remove them?" What do you think about other people coming to Zhuangzi to teach and cultivate white wax insects?"

"You mean the village chiefs?"

"Yes. Next to the government office in Fucheng, it looks majestic. But things like planting trees and raising insects are more believable only if you see the real thing. And these first batch of mature farmers can also help teach people. Shan Cong In terms of teaching effect, this is the most suitable place. I just don't know if the others are suitable." Li Xiaohan explained softly.

In terms of teaching effect alone, this is naturally the most suitable place. But if it is not certain based on other factors, such as the place has been decided before, what will the government say? For example, is this place of Zhuangzi suitable for being exposed to the public?

These are all issues that Zhang Fu needs to consider.

"Let me think about it." Sure enough, Zhang Fu frowned slightly and said.

On the fifth day of March, in the afternoon, at the home of Patriarch Li in Pingshan Village. Patriarch Li had just returned from Fucheng to learn how to raise white wax insects. The bullock cart had not stopped yet, and Patriarch Li had not gotten off the car. Li Xiandong hurriedly He walked forward and asked anxiously, his face full of anxiety.

"Patriarch, have you seen my Xiaohan? I went to Fucheng but couldn't find her. Someone from Tongfu Restaurant brought me a letter saying that the place where white waxworms are cultivated has changed and was moved to Zhuangzi. Let me don't worry."

How could you not be worried? A nice girl of fourteen or fifteen years old was originally promised to be next to the government office, but suddenly her place changed and she was nowhere to be seen. When I got home, my mother was extremely anxious.

"I saw it. Okay, it's in the village outside Fucheng." Patriarch Li took a breath and said while getting off the oxcart, "I also talked to Xiaohan, and she asked me what was going on at home. So, are you okay?"

Li Xiandong breathed a sigh of relief when he received the reply from Patriarch Li, "Oh, then you tell her that everything is going well at home and we are all fine. Which village is she in? Can you go and see her?"

In a moment of urgency, Li Xiandong had forgotten that Patriarch Li came back after watching Li Xiaohan, not to see Li Xiaohan.

"It's not far from Zhuangzi outside Fucheng, but you better not go there. You're busy. When I went there, people said that white waxworms were in the incubation period at this time, and the hydatid bugs should be on the trees and set leaves as soon as possible. You I won't be able to help you much, you have a lot of trouble at home." Chief Li said without raising his head, and then carefully picked up a few seedlings wrapped in mud on the ox cart. , and asked the helpers at home to take the cattle away, feed them water and serve them well.

"Oh, that's true." The family was really busy, and Li Xiaohan was away, so Li Xiandong discovered that he had to make his own decisions on many things, such as brewing wine, peppers, and other things at home. He had to think clearly about everything, Li Xiandong had a heavy responsibility at the moment.

"Then our Xiaohan is not thin, is he not so cold that he is hungry?" After thinking about it, Li Xiandong asked again. This was what Wang asked Li Xiandong to ask when he went out, but he didn't see Li Xiaohan, so he could only Ask the clan leader.

Patriarch Li looked at Li Xiandong, as if Li Xiandong asked a strange question. He stuffed a branch with leaves into Li Xiandong and motioned for him to hold it for him. As he walked, he said, "How can you be hungry and cold? I don't see who in that village." Everyone is very respectful when they see her. No one can treat her poorly."

Speaking of which, Patriarch Li almost didn't recognize Li Xiaohan at that time. Why did the girl in his clan who had grown up look so majestic suddenly? At first glance, he seemed to be a different person, but upon closer inspection, he looked exactly like that. At most, he had grown a little taller.

It's really strange.

"Oh, that's good." Li Xiandong smiled, "Chief, what did you get? Didn't you go learn how to raise white waxworms from Xiaohan? Why did you come back with the saplings?"

"I have learned, but there are no ash trees in our village. How can we raise insects? We have given insect seeds and we must not waste them." Chief Li said, today he has seen something. It turns out that raising ash is not the same as raising silkworms. It's different. It needs to be put on a tree to grow. In vain, he thought it was like raising silkworms, so before going out, he even packed up a wing of his house.

But that's fine. Those poor farmers with poor family conditions can still raise this kind of insect and have an income as long as they have two acres of mountain land. Unlike raising silkworms, you need to have a special room.

"These are ash tree saplings. If they are well raised, next year when these saplings grow up, they can start to put insect seeds on the trees to raise ash worms. Next year, the government will also sell insect seeds. ." Patriarch Li explained, "The branch in your hand is a waste branch of the ash tree. It cannot be used for cutting breeding, and there is no pruned branch for other purposes. Bring it back to us to identify the tree. Yes. If we see this kind of tree in the mountains, we can transplant it and plant it ourselves, or cut the branches and take cuttings. If we don't have land, we can dig it up and give it to the government office. The government office will look at the quality and give you money. "

Chief Li was still hesitating about how many acres of land to plant ash trees and how many acres to plant eucommia trees. He was only waiting to make a decision after today's training. There is no need to be embarrassed now, half an acre of land is not enough to plant these seedlings provided by the government.

However, I heard that all the villages near Dingcheng have been allocated seedlings. It seems that the government has done its best. It is said that there will be another batch next year, more than this year. This thing only occupies mountainous land and does not occupy grain fields. It is estimated that there will be many kinds next year.

Having said that, what Xiaohan said about "I have what others don't have, and what I have is superior to others" is right. If you don't compete with so many people, you can safely breed Eucommia in your own clan. For this kind of Eucommia ulmoides, it takes a little longer to harvest.

"Oh, this is the ash tree." Hearing what the patriarch said, Li Xiandong held up the branch and looked around. The more he looked at it, the more familiar it became. "Chief, I think I have seen this tree before?"

"What, have you seen it? Where is it?" Patriarch Li was shocked.

"It's in the mountains. It was when we were harvesting eucommia bark the year before last. I seemed to have seen it at that time. But the tree seemed to be infested with insects. It was covered with a layer of hoarfrost like spider silk, so we didn't take a closer look. ."

The family had just separated the year before last and when they were harvesting eucommia, Li Xiaohan and his people fried eucommia at home, while Li Xiandong and his people searched all over the mountains just to find those wild eucommia trees. There were so many people here, and after searching around for a while, I saw this tree deep in the mountains.

Now that he had seen this branch, he had almost forgotten it. There are many strange trees in the mountains, but I didn't think much of them at that time. It's just a moment, so I can't be very sure. After all, it's been a long time, leaving only some vague impressions.

Li Xiandong was not sure. When Patriarch Li heard that there was a thick layer of white frost hanging on the tree, like spider silk, he thought it was very similar. Why did Xiaohan say it today? Oh, this white wax insect secretes white wax in summer and autumn. Just like a layer of frost and snow.

Nine times out of ten, that's it.

"Quick, do you remember where it is? Take us there quickly, we have to dig that tree back." Patriarch Li quickly put the ash sapling in a shady place and called for help immediately.

Today, I am not the only village chief who is being trained nearby. The other villagers also went up the mountain to search for Eucommia trees the year before last. If others recognized it and were a step early, their village would have lost this Chance.

"That tree is so big that it can't be moved." Li Xiandong scratched his head and said, "But I think there are some small saplings nearby. I think those can be dug."

Generally, a tree will not grow alone. When the tree grows big, it will have seeds. When the seeds fall to the ground, as time goes by, there will always be seedlings next to it.

"That's OK. We can cut the branches back and cut them to raise seedlings. If there are saplings, we can dig them back." Chief Li said that today they also learned to cut seedlings, and the seedlings in the field are still their own. Digging it. Speaking of which, after looking at the seedling fields, they realized that there were so many seedlings growing there.

After saying that, Patriarch Li did not wait for Li Xiandong to refuse, and quickly found a dozen people to follow Li Xiandong into the mountain. Today he would take possession of this ownerless tree.

A dozen villagers were found, and Patriarch Li changed into clothes that were convenient for walking, and went into the mountain together. Li Xiandong couldn't remember the specific location. After searching for a while, he found the tree in his memory.

After walking around the tree, which was nearly seven to eight meters high, Patriarch Li understood what Li Xiandong meant when he said it couldn't be moved - how deep could the roots of such a tall tree be dug?

However, if you can't move the tree, you can move the others.

"Pick off those fruit-like knots on the branches. Be careful. Shake them from side to side before picking them. Don't use too much force."

That's right, this is the species of white waxworm that I saw in Zhuangzi. It is reddish brown, elastic, and it looks like it is about to lay eggs.

Fortunately they arrived in time.

"Yes, patriarch."

A dozen big men climbed up the tree, picked the white wax worms on the tree, and planted them.

After about half an hour, the man on the tree stopped and said, "Chief, someone else is coming over there."

At the foot of the mountain, there was also a group of people, watching from a distance coming this way.

Patriarch Li took a closer look and saw that this was not Patriarch Zhu next door. Sure enough, he said that everyone had searched the mountains the year before last. What was in the mountains could not be hidden from others. "Speed up the action and pick as soon as possible. But you still have to pay attention to safety," he said. Don't fall off."

"Yes, clan leader." Hearing that someone was coming to snatch it, the Li family worked even more efficiently.

More than a quarter of an hour later, as expected, Patriarch Zhu came over with his people. He looked up at the others on the tree and greeted, "Patriarch Li, you are moving very quickly."

"This is an ownerless treasure in the mountains, so you have to hurry up. But Patriarch Zhu, you are not slow either." Patriarch Li replied while picking seeds from the tree. I added in my mind: Although it is still a little slower than us.

Patriarch Zhu didn't talk much to Patriarch Li. He ordered people to move and climbed up the tree.

However, although this tree is big, it is difficult to support nearly twenty people.

"Half of us will come down first," Patriarch Li said.

Patriarch Zhu thought that Patriarch Li was so kind and humble, but when the others came down, Patriarch Li's next sentence was, "Come and dig up some of the seedlings we are optimistic about."

Patriarch Zhu was furious and wanted to grab the seedlings, but he still held back. Patriarch Li had already taken it. If they wanted to snatch it, they had to see if they could snatch it away. When it came to fighting, the Li clan was not afraid of anyone. In addition to fighting, both clans have talented people. As for other things, I heard that the Li family built the Fanjiao Winery, which has a relationship with Fucheng.

There was no other way. Chief Zhu had no choice but to follow the Li clan to pick up the slack. Fortunately, they didn't arrive very late. They picked some insect seeds, cut some branches to raise seedlings, and dug two small trees. Of course it is incomparable to the Li family, but it is not without gains.

At dusk and sunset, the two tribes met together and hurried down the mountain. At this time, it was actually too late. The wild beasts in the mountains did not distinguish between Zhu and Li.

On the way down the mountain, people from the two groups were close together. At this time, it would be safer if there were more people. After walking and running, everyone finally got out of the mountains. Everyone breathed a sigh of relief. They felt deeply that they shouldn't delay too late just because of the large number of people. Fortunately, nothing happened. If something happened, it would be troublesome.

After leaving the mountain, the two clans parted ways again. The Li clan left their things at the clan leader's house before going home.

"Why did you come back so late after going into the mountains? I don't know how dangerous the mountains are." The patriarch's wife complained. It was hard to say there were so many people just now, but earlier I saw that it was almost getting dark and no one had come back yet. The patriarch's wife almost called for people. Went to find it.

"I forgot to delay. Hurry up and bring me two clean bamboo dustpans. These insects must be spread out, otherwise they will be suffocated to death." Patriarch Li felt guilty and quickly changed the subject.

Hearing that it was serious business, the patriarch's wife stopped talking about her man and quickly helped bring a dustpan.

"That's a lot." The patriarch's wife said while helping.

"No, we went early and picked more." Patriarch Li said with a hint of pride.

"I see you brought back four grown saplings. Are these not enough trees?" asked the patriarch's wife.

"It's okay. This kind of insect can also be sold to the government, and it can be sold for money." Patriarch Li explained.

"How many can you sell? Is it ten taels? Twenty taels?"

"How can there be so many? I sold them all for one tael of silver at most." There are a lot of insects in Zhuangzi. If they can be sold for one tael of silver, it's because the price is high this year.

"Hmph." The patriarch's wife snorted softly, and a sneer appeared on the corner of her mouth. The meaning was self-evident: with such a small amount of money, you take people to the mountains for adventure and don't come back until dark.

Having been married for many years, the patriarch suddenly froze: He might not be able to pass this level tonight.

Pretending to be calm, the clan leader's thoughts were racing and he finally came up with an idea.

"Although this thing is not worth ten or twenty taels, it is better because it is priceless and has no market. I will give some to the head of the village. Maybe the head of the village needs it too." Patriarch Li said.

Depending on the connections there, you might be able to find the ash tree, but you may not have the ash seeds. When he looked at it today, there were almost none on those young trees. Anyway, we can't sell them all. Selling half of them won't be worth much, so why don't we use them as a favor to the mayor.

Even if the director doesn't need it, he can still run up there. They, the common people, have no channels, and the adults above may not.

The more he thought about it, the more he thought it was a good idea. Patriarch Li didn't even change his clothes and said, "Don't do it. I'll give the remaining half to the chief."

"Now? It's dark."

"Right now, it's very safe to go to the Chang's house from our place. The insect seeds have just been picked and they are still alive. If you cover it up overnight, you won't be able to tell what will happen. It's impossible to tell. , send it out, if anything happens, it will offend someone."

Giving gifts requires a lot of knowledge. If the gift is not delivered well, it will have the opposite effect, so it is better not to send it at all.

The patriarch's wife was also sensible. She quickly got ready, asked helpers to hitch the ox cart, lit lanterns, and while the night was still dark, the patriarch went to deliver gifts overnight.

As expected by the clan leader, this white wax insect is now popular in Dingcheng. Although the breeding method has been popularized, the people above are still short of the insect saplings - most of them are in Zhang. The mansion is held by King Ding. With such a huge exclusive business of white wax, which noble family wouldn't want to take advantage of it and drink the soup.

I heard that this white wax insect was just picked from the mountains and was sent over immediately. There must be no problem with its viability. The village chief was very satisfied. Hearing that Patriarch Li had not eaten, he quickly asked Patriarch Li to stay for dinner. During the dinner, he hinted that the water source this summer would be given priority to Pingshan Village, and that the corvee would definitely take good care of them.

The night was dark and windy, and the stars and the moon were shining brightly. Sitting behind the bullock cart, Patriarch Li felt that his move was very clever: killing two birds with one stone, killing two birds with one stone. He not only avoided the scolding of the old woman at home, but also had a good relationship with the village chief. The relationship was established.

If there weren't still helpers around, Patriarch Li would even want to whistle.

When I got home, it was already dark, with only a lantern left in the yard. The helper was taking good care of the cattle, and the clan leader went into the kitchen. Oh, there was only rice left but no vegetables.

It seems that the lady is still angry, but she still has food left, so she is not afraid.

Patriarch Li was glad that he and his helpers all ate at the village chief's house. He filled the hot water behind the stove, washed it under the moonlight, and prepared to go back to his room.

After pushing, the door did not open.

Pushing again, the door was stuck tightly and closed from the inside.

Patriarch Li refused to give up and pushed again, but there was no movement inside. He called out in a low voice, but there was no answer inside.

If he yelled again, the whole family would be startled. Patriarch Li stood quietly outside the door for a moment, then had to go to the study to sleep in frustration.

There is only one bird, only one gain.

=== Chapter === 112

March, spring is beautiful.

Patriarch Li had a lot of things to do in the clan, so after sleeping in the study for three days, he finally had time to go back to the main room to sleep.

Patriarch Li only admitted this reason, and the patriarch's wife had no objection.

Patriarch Li's family also ushered in a period of harmonious days.

It was a busy spring day, including preparations for spring plowing, preparations for the winery and house, matters related to white wax insects, and various chores in the clan. Patriarch Li's whole figure was spinning around like a top.

On this day, the clan leader went to the village chief's house early. Today was the day when results were released for the last round of the college examination.

"What's the matter? Looking at your face, there is no scholar in our clan?" The patriarch's wife asked, not looking purely happy when she saw Patriarch Li coming back from the village chief's house.

It didn't matter to her. Anyway, her son had already passed the scholar examination and was studying in Qingshan Academy. Whether anyone in the clan passed the scholar examination was not a big deal to the patriarch's wife.

But since the old man cared about it, the patriarch's wife comforted him, "Forget it, it will be the same every year. Let me tell you something happy, your white wax insect species have laid eggs."

"Really?" Sure enough, after hearing the good news, Patriarch Li was much happy and he hurried to the specially cleaned wing of his home.

When I looked closer, I saw the familiar flesh-colored rice-grain-shaped larvae crawling around on the insect shell. They were exactly the same as what I saw during the training at Zhuangzi outside Fucheng.

Patriarch Li got closer and closer, finally with a heartfelt smile on his face.

"You should be happy," the patriarch's wife said.

The patriarch breathed a sigh of relief, his old wife knew about him.

But after heaving a sigh of relief, he still looked worried after all, and said, "In our clan, we have won two more talents this time, but they are the first from last and the second from last."

"You old man, I thought there weren't any. The last and second to last are not bad either. They are scholars anyway, not better than the ones who didn't win. Who is it? One of them is virtuous, right? ?Who is the other one?"

Li Deyou got pregnant last year, and was forced to study for a year by his third uncle. It was no surprise that he became a scholar.

Just who is the other one?

"He is a talent from Uncle Shengli's family."

"Oh, it's him." Upon hearing the name, the patriarch's wife turned pale, "It's not surprising. In clan studies at that time, it was said that he was somewhat talented in reading."

Later, he went to a neighboring village to study with Zhu Xiucai.

"Why, are you worried about this?"

"Xiandong and Xiannan are not in harmony after all. It would be okay if one was bigger and the other was smaller. But now that both sides are getting up, they are afraid of a collision." Chief Li said that the promising people in this clan asked him to The patriarch is happy, but the discord between the promising people makes people not so happy.

"I thought you were thinking about something. I thought you were thinking too much about this. Li Cairong just passed the examination and was still on the bottom, so you thought about it. Is this scholar rare? Are we rare? There are already three in the clan. Besides, you, the clan leader, can't suppress a scholar, so just do whatever you want. Our son is studying at Qingshan Academy, and he will support you."

The patriarch's wife said arrogantly that her son was a junior student, but she didn't say anything.

However, thinking of the old man's obsession with scholars, the patriarch's wife had to remind you, "I would like to remind you, don't let a scholar fool you. If Uncle Li gets confused in any way, you can It needs to be stopped properly. When the family is divided, there are two families. It goes without saying that the eldest brother of the separated family has to support his nephew, whose father is not born from the same mother."

Patriarch Li frowned, not sure whether he heard it or not.

"Did you listen to what I said? Think about it, this wine shop in the clan is Xiaohan's secret recipe. Mr. Zhang and the Qinggang family only recognize Xiaohan's account. How many people in the clan are there? This year we are planting peppers, and everyone is tied to the same boat, as well as the white wax worm, Xiaohan was sent by the government to invite him, what a face."

The patriarch's wife paused for a moment, lowered her voice, but her tone became firmer, "Our son's ability to pass the exam is a result of Xiaohan's information; his ability to enter Qingshan Academy is due to Xiaohan's recruitment information; this year's son's admission is due to Xiaohan's information. If you want Qiu Wei, Xiaohan also sent you all the books before. I tell you who to turn to, and you can decide the importance."

Patriarch Li glanced at his wife and said, "You are doing this for your son."

"What if I do it for my son? That's not your son." The patriarch's wife said unconvinced.

Patriarch Li gave his wife a cold look, rubbed his hands, and left the door.

A complacent smile appeared on the face of the patriarch's wife. She was so determined to have such a promising son, this old man dared not admit it.

The bells representing happy events in Pingshan Village rang again.

"Oh my god, I have won two more talents. Sure enough, the ancestors of our old Li family have begun to exert their strength and become prosperous." Someone exclaimed loudly.

"No, it's almost the Qingming Festival. We have to make good offerings to our ancestors so that they can continue to work hard to protect us." Ancestors, please continue to work hard. It's their turn.

It was pure joy for Li De to have a family.

Li Deyou scratched his head, "I thought there was no chance, but I'm actually the last one."

As soon as he finished speaking, he received a crutch from his third uncle, "I told you to work harder, otherwise you would end up in last place."

Of course, there is no need to exert too much force when falling.

But Li Deyou jumped up and said, "Grandpa, grandpa, I haven't worked hard enough. In addition to eating and sleeping, I also go to the ethnic study to help. The rest of the time, you have to study."

"That's it, let's continue from now on." The third uncle looked serious, his beard was curled up, and he was indescribably proud.

As for the other side, everyone around Li Cairong seemed to have not yet reacted. Finally, it was little Chen who cried and hugged Li Cairong, "My son, you have worked hard, you have worked hard. You passed the exam. You finally passed the exam."

This cry almost startled everyone around, but looking at Li Cairong who is as thin as a bamboo pole, he is really thin and out of shape. If a child studies hard to look like this, little Mrs. Chen, a mother-in-law, will cry out The sound is not surprising.

Little Chen's crying brought back the minds of Li Shengli, Li Xiannan and others around her.

"Okay. Okay! Okay!" Li Shengli said loudly, finally regaining the face he had lost in the past two years after the separation.

Li Xiannan was also full of tears, and his back straightened a bit even when he was hunched over.

"Okay. Be quiet. In the past two years, there has been good news everywhere in the clan. The young people are all making progress. Everyone is planting peppers, eucommia, and learning to make wine. The days are getting better and better. This Qingming Festival , we must pay homage to our ancestors and let them continue to bless us. Does anyone have any opinions?" Patriarch Li asked loudly.

"No objection. That's it." There was a lot of excitement in the Li family ancestral hall, and everyone looked excited.

"It's done. If you don't agree, it's settled. Let's break up. Xiandong, please stay for a while and I'll tell you about Xiao Han." Patriarch Li said again.

The crowd slowly walked out, leaving only Li Xiandong and those who were curious.

"Clan leader, what do you want from Xiao Han?" Li Xiandong asked.

"Xiandong, can you get in touch with Xiaohan? You can ask if Xiaohan can come back during the Qingming ancestor worship?" Patriarch Li said.

"Ah, Xiaohan was asked by Mr. Guan to help, and he hasn't come back yet?" Someone interrupted at that moment, and some people who left even came back, and the clan leader didn't care.

"People in eight villages ten miles away from Dingcheng are rushing to learn how to raise white waxworms. Our village is among the first batch only because of Xiaohan. I heard that the old village where my aunt married is still alive today. It's not my turn, how can I come back so soon? I heard that the government is taking it seriously, and every village has been notified." Someone said.

"No wonder it's like this, but everyone has to worship their ancestors during the Qingming Festival, so I should be free that day." Another person said.

"No, we can't do without Xiaohan. Xiandong, can you still contact the people in the government?" Some people are more curious that Li Xiandong can actually talk to the government.

"Xiandong is Xiaohan's father, so of course we can contact him. However, Xiandong, you still have to ask, Xiaohan cannot be missing."

Before Patriarch Li and Li Xiandong finished speaking, the people around them started to add more.

"Then I'll go and ask." Li Xiandong scratched his head and said with a smile. He hasn't seen anyone for almost ten days. Everyone values his daughter so much. It doesn't matter if he goes to Tongfu Restaurant and gives her a message. . If you can't come back during the Qingming Festival, it might as well find a chance to go and have a look.

"Yes, ask, ask. The official sent someone to pick him up that day. For such an important thing, you have to tell your ancestors during the Qingming Festival." Everyone said in unison.

Therefore, in fact, it is not that a certain person cannot be missing, but that an important person cannot be missing.

Li Cairong, who was surrounded by people and walked forward, looked back at the patriarch and Li Xiandong who were surrounded by everyone, his eyes dark and unclear.

He was not a stupid person, so he naturally saw the deeper meaning of the clan leader: Although he was admitted as a scholar, his status as a scholar in the clan was still not as good as that of Li Xiaohan.

I believe that if he really had to make a choice, most people in the clan would not choose him. After all, there are now three scholars in the clan, so it is no longer rare. Moreover, the benefits brought by one scholar to the villagers are far less than those brought by one Panjiao.

Thinking of Fanjiao Winery, Li Cairong knew better. As my cousin, I will not let my family get any extra benefits.

With the support of the clan, the Qinggang and Zhang Ergong, no matter how talented he is, he doesn't dare to run into his uncle's family.

To climb up, the uncle's family has no help, so they have to think of other ways.

After Li Cairong figured it out, he turned his head without hesitation and no longer looked back at the Li family ancestral hall.

One day later, in Zhuangzi outside Fucheng.

"Dad, you told people that you wanted to see me, because something happened at home and you couldn't make up your mind?" Li Xiaohan asked worriedly. Although she had made arrangements before going out, there was no chance of an accident.

"It's okay, everything is fine at home, don't worry." Li Xiandong smiled slightly sheepishly, "The patriarch asked if you would go home to worship your ancestors during the Qingming Festival. I originally wanted to ask someone to give it to you. Ask, but your mother said you have been out for ten days, so she asked me to come and take a look. If you really can't go home, we can also take a look at what's going on here."

Now that she has seen it, Li Xiandong is relieved. Her daughter is so majestic. For such a big Zhuangzi, everyone is respectful to his daughter. Although he didn't know any of the village chiefs in neighboring villages, they seemed to be similar to Patriarch Li. They all respected his daughter and respectfully addressed Miss Li as Master Li.

"Oh, I'm going home during Qingming Festival. But I can't go home until the night before Qingming Festival, and I have to go out again in the morning after Qingming Festival. Things are not over yet." Li Xiaohan explained.

There was no arrangement for the village chief to come to study during the Qingming Festival. Zhuangzi's affairs could be left to others and she could rest for a day.

It was also because she planned to go home during the Qingming Festival, so she only asked Tongfu Restaurant and the clan leader to give her father the news, but did not ask her father to come over.

"That's good, that's good. Your mother is looking forward to having you go back once." Li Xiandong smiled even happier.

"Dad, is there really nothing going on at home?" Li Xiaohan still asked worriedly.

"It's okay, it's okay. Your mother and I are very good. Xiaoshuang can hold her head up now. She looks more and more like you as she grows. You don't have to worry about home. Lotus and I are carrying the peppers in the village. Everyone has planted it, and I found someone to dig holes and transplant Eucommia eucommia. Everyone has started to make wine, and the new winery is almost built, and there is a clan leader."

Li Xiandong talked about many things in detail, and finally convinced Li Xiaohan that everything in the family was running well, and then he drove the ox cart away with confidence.

After Li Xiandong left, Li Xiaohan frowned, "Something must have happened at my house."

"Why do you see it?" Although Zhang Fu didn't listen to the two people talking, when Li Xiandong left, he came out to see him off. At that time, the two fathers and daughters were smiling, but they could not tell that anything was going on.

"My father is not a person who talks so much. He said it because he felt guilty." Li Xiaohan said while tapping the table and frowning in thought. She knew her father too well. His father just didn't want her to worry, so he only told her the good news. "But it shouldn't be particularly urgent and important news, otherwise my father wouldn't be able to hide it."

Zhang Fu frowned and thought for a while, "Your father said that your clan leader asked you to go home to worship your ancestors?"

"Hmm. What do you know?"

"I probably guessed something, but I don't know if it's because of this. Qingzhu, take out the stack of books in my room."

"Yes, sir."

Qingzhu retreated in response, and soon came out with a pile of books. Zhang Fu opened one of the red papers and said, "Look, here, your cousin passed the scholar examination this year and ranked second from the bottom. Speaking of which, it is fate. The first from the bottom is also from your village."

"That's Uncle Deyou, who is familiar with our family." Li Xiaohan pointed at the two names and said, "I guess so. My cousin was admitted as a scholar, and the clan leader asked me to go home. Worshiping the ancestors showed that he valued me. My father was afraid that I would worry, so he hid this matter."

Li Xiaohan figured out the key and asked, "How come you have this list?"

"Earlier, you asked me to pay attention to the academic administration newly sent from Dingcheng, and I have been sending people to collect relevant information. This spring's scientific examination is the beginning of the academic administration, and I think it will reveal my preference for academic administration. How can I miss it. It's just that Only some of this information has come, and some are on the way. I originally wanted to wait for you to come home during the Qingming Festival, and bring it back to your clan brother, but now I have brought it to your cousin. This matter."

"My cousin is nothing to be afraid of. There is help from the clan leader, and he was very intimidating last time when we went back. He didn't dare to provoke me." Li Xiaohan said calmly.

She had known that her cousin was going to be a scholar, and she had already made preparations to tie her family and clan together. Li Cairong, a scholar, was not qualified to make waves.

Now, she no longer regards this cousin as a rival, but is more concerned about whether this new academic administration will have an impact on Li Xin and Qiu Wei. This is more important to her, "How is this academic administration?"

"Nearly forty years old, he was born as a rich farmer. He became an official after taking the scientific examination. He had been in the capital before, but now he is transferred to Dingcheng." Zhang Fu explained, "Such an official belongs to the Qing faction in the court. His family does not belong to the same clan. There are not many people to help, so I have to rely on myself. Qingliu has always had a good reputation. He is nearly forty years old, and he is still in his prime in the officialdom. The ability to study and govern in one place is Yes, there must be ambitions, this is sent by the imperial court and Taisun to capture the scientific research place in Dingcheng."

Oh, they are from the imperial court and Taisun. Li Xiaohan raised his head and asked, "Ding Wang just let him do this?"

"The scientific examination is a ceremony for the imperial court to recruit talents. The imperial court has always attached great importance to this aspect. King Ding is a military general, and he did not attach much importance to this aspect in the past. Therefore, this aspect is not involved much, and it is not convenient in this aspect now. Intervene." Zhang Fu smiled bitterly.

Oh, King Ding used to be a military commander. He always believed in conquering the world immediately and talking with his fists, so he didn't care too much about scientific examinations.

Now that Taisun has made it clear that he will develop into a civilized person, the emperor and I are suppressing him, and it is not convenient for Prince Ding to openly block Taisun's path.

"Oh, I understand." Li Xiaohan nodded and asked, "This spring's scholar examination questions are from this academic administration institute?"

"Yes, it should be based on etiquette. The king is the guide for the ministers, the father is the guide for the son, and the husband is the guide for the wife."

Hearing these twelve words, Li Xiaohan felt instinctively disgusted, and he could no longer flip through the pile of books on his desk.

Really annoying.

Under the same culture, it has still developed to this point.

For a moment, I didn't know whether to take these things back to Li Xinhe.

Seeing this, Zhang Fu stopped mentioning the scientific examination and said instead, "You go home before the Qingming Festival, and I will take you back."

"You don't have to go home to worship your ancestors?" Li Xiaohan asked curiously. His father and brother were on the battlefield. There was only one man in his family, so he was very busy.

"There are servants preparing for the details. Besides, there are not many people in our family, and the memorial tablet is lying in one place. I will send you back to Pingshan Village first, and then rush back to the capital." Zhang Fu was tidying up while doing so. said.

Oh, Li Xiaohan can't ask again. After all, the matter of surrendering a general may have been a tragedy for his family.

However, "No need, just send someone to take me back." Li Cairong, who had just been admitted as a scholar, had no impact on her now.

"I picked you up, so I am responsible for sending you back. Besides, the dead are not as important as the living."

Li Xiaohan looked at him in shock, ah, these were actually words spoken by the ancients.

As expected of being raised by a woman like Mrs. Zhang, he is in line with women's hearts.

"Sure. It's up to you." Li Xiaohan stopped refusing.

It is naturally better for Zhang Fu and Guan Cha to send her back than for Guan Cha to send her back. The more correct the name, the more fluent the words, the more straightforward and strong the reason.

Regarding the pewter matter, she didn't receive a penny, and she was not stupid to push the benefits out.

=== Chapter === 113

In mid-March, the afternoon before Qingming Festival.

A soap-colored horse, accompanied by four official servants, surrounded a carriage and walked on the road outside Pingshan Village.

Li Xiaohan opened the curtains of the carriage, and outside the window were the rolling farmland nearby and the rolling green hills in the distance. The early spring sunshine was warm but not scorching, and the golden light shone on the green fields, making it picturesque.

Especially around the Qingming Festival, there is a lot of drizzle. The sunlight shines and the water vapor transpires. The green mountains seem to be covered with a layer of cloud gauze, and the places with dense water vapor slightly reflect the seven-color rainbow light.

The breeze is gentle, but not annoying at all. The wind brings water vapor, the smell of earth and the astringency of grass, making people feel the vigorous life force soaked in it.

"The weather is very good today." Li Xiaohan said with a slight smile. Spring always makes people feel full of hope.

"Yes. The spring is very beautiful." Zhang Fu agreed from outside the carriage and asked, "Are those fields ready to be planted with peppers? Are those pepper seedlings in the seedling fields next to them?"

"Well, let me take a look. Well, yes, this seedling is growing well. It will be ready for transplanting in half a month. Can you see it?" Li Xiaohan asked curiously. After all, Zhang He doesn't look like he's been farming.

"I don't seem to have seen similar seedlings. They are planted in such a large area. They are probably not vegetables, so I guess they are peppers." Zhang Fu explained.

Fields are precious, and generally large areas of farmland are only used to grow food to fill the stomach. Most vegetables are grown in scattered areas in front of and behind the house.

"Your guess is quite right." Li Xiaohan praised.

Not only did he praise him for guessing correctly, but he also praised him for at least having a certain understanding of people's livelihood.

If you can see the pepper field, you are not far from Pingshan Village. After all, pepper is still a rare thing. In order to prevent theft, the villagers choose to plant it in fields closer to the village.

Sure enough, after a while, a farmer driving a sledge in the field not far away stopped, squinted at the carriage group for a moment, and then asked hesitantly, "Xiaohan, is that you?" "

Li Xiaohan identified it carefully, thought for a moment, waved back from the car window, "It's me, Uncle Shugen, I'll come back to worship my ancestors during the Qingming Festival."

Hearing Li Xiaohan's answer, the farmer who was called Shugenshu laughed and frowned, and answered loudly and loudly, "Hey, just come back, just come back. The clan will be waiting for you. ."

How majestic.

It was the official officer and the noble son who sent Xiaohan back again.

Oh, Xiaohan also calls me Uncle Shugen. So, do the officials and the noble master also know that my name is Li Shugen?

Just scream again.

Li Shugen thought secretly.

The ancestors' wish to bless him soon came true.

"Uncle Shugen, you're busy, I'm going home first."

"Okay, okay, okay. Your parents are waiting for you."

Li Shugen smiled even happier.

Li Xiaohan on the carriage said goodbye to Li Shugen, met other villagers who greeted him, and exchanged greetings all the way back to the door.

Li Xiandong and Wang had been waiting outside the door for a long time. At this moment, they were smiling extremely happily, their eyes were full of joy, but the only thing they said out of their mouths was, "I'm back, I'm back."

Mrs. Wang handed Li Xiaoshuang to Aunt He behind her, grabbed Li Xiaohan's hand and touched it quickly. Li Xiaohan held it back and asked with a smile, "Mom, have I lost weight?"

Wang showed an embarrassed smile.

"Master Zhang, thank you for your hard work." Li Xiandong finally choked out a word of thanks. After training for so long, he was finally able to say a few words normally when facing Zhang Fu.

"Uncle, you are too polite. I took Miss Li out, so I have the responsibility to bring her back safely. But I still have to trouble Miss Li. I will come to pick her up the day after tomorrow."

Li Xiandong felt relieved when he heard that Zhang Fu would come to pick him up the day after tomorrow. He actually didn't refuse and led the people forward with a cheerful smile.

After entering the door, things started to get lively. Several people who were brewing wine at the Li family came out of the kitchen and said with a smile, "Xiaohan is back, just come back, just in time to participate in tomorrow's Qingming ancestor worship." "

"Xiaohan just came back to participate in ancestor worship. The time must be just right. Xiaohan, are you tired? Let's take a look at the wine brewed by the uncles later. If you are not here, we don't know if we can become."

"The craftsmanship of all my uncles was already mastered when I left, so there must be no problem. Besides, my father is still there to check it." Li Xiaohan replied with a smile.

Everyone forgot about Li Xiandong for a moment, and then said sheepishly, "Xiandong, I'm not saying that your teaching is not good, it means that our hearts are not always so stable when Xiaohan is not here."

Li Xiandong didn't mind at all, but said, "Me too."

Everyone burst into laughter.

Another Li Hehua ran out of the backyard, arriving before anyone else could say, "Master, you are back."

The whole person is hit by the smell of chili pepper base.

Suddenly, the entire Li family yard seemed to come alive. Even Li Xiaoshuang, who was brought back by Mrs. Wang, looked at all this with wide eyes and confusion.

The group came to the main room, and Aunt He quickly served hot tea to Zhang Fu and Li Xiaohan. Li Guiqian also helped to greet the officials and others who tied the horses in the yard.

After drinking hot tea and sitting for half a quarter of an hour, Zhang Fu stood up and said, "I have something to ask Brother Xinhe. I wonder if uncle can find someone to guide me?"

On the eve of the Qingming Festival, Qingshan Academy must be on holiday, so Li Xinhe should be at home.

Before Li Xiandong could answer, Li Xiaohan on the side asked aloud, "Is it about those books that you are looking for Xin He Ge?"

That day they talked about academic affairs. When they heard about the Three Cardinal Guidelines and Five Permanent Rules, Li Xiaohan felt disgusted with the academic affairs and didn't say anything more about it.

"Yes." Zhang Fu said.

Li Xiaohan didn't like to hear it, and in fact Zhang Fu didn't like it very much either. Zhang Fu was very meritocratic. However, someone has to do this, so he can convey it to Li Xinhe on his behalf.

"I'll go with you." Li Xiaohan stood up and said. This world is such that avoiding problems cannot solve them.

Zhang Fu said with a smile, "It's a rare trip home. You can chat more with your uncle and aunt. Brother Xinhe and I got along well last year, so I can just take him there. It's also convenient for me to say some things to him."

After a pause, Zhang Fu added, "We should all believe in Xinhe's character and believe that he will stick to his true intentions."

Li Xiaohan thought of Li Xinhe's temperament, which was indeed the case, "In that case, why don't we invite brother Xinhe to come over? It's rare for you to come from a long distance, and if we let you run around, then it's our inconsiderateness."

"Yes, yes, I'll find someone to call Xinhe over." Li Xiandong interjected.

Li Xiandong only understood that if the two of them had something to do with Li Xinhe, it would be best to ask Li Xinhe to come over. This is not simple, and there is no need for adults to stop what they are doing and open the door. Li Guihou's house next to it is still being finished, and a group of children are watching the novelty.

"Brother Dou, go to the patriarch's house and tell him that Xiaohan is back. Mr. Zhang is here too. Please Xinhe come over."

"Hey. I understand." Brother Dou stood up, feeling that he had been given a huge responsibility. He dropped the gravel in his hand, picked up his thin legs, and ran very fast. The children nearby also joined in the fun, and all of them disappeared in an instant.

"Master, when are you leaving?" Li Hehua on the side also heard the general idea and didn't know the meaning, but she did understand that Li Xiaohan would not be at home for too long.

"I'm leaving early the day after tomorrow, and I'll still have to work on the white wax matter for a while. What's the matter?"

"have."

Li Hehua originally wanted to wait for a suitable time to talk, but now she heard that Li Xiaohan would leave early the day after tomorrow and worship his ancestors tomorrow. At least tonight, he would leave some time for Li Xiaohan and Li Xiandong Wang to talk, and she could fight for it It was only half the afternoon, so I quickly ran to the side room and took out my notebook.

"Master, the data you asked me to record are the effects of various factors on pepper. I feel that this year seems to be colder than last year. The seedlings bred at the same time did not grow as well as last year and were three points shorter. .Does this have any impact?"

Li Xiaohan turned to look at the data, "The weather must have an impact on pepper sowing. If this year is colder than last year and the pepper seedlings grow slower, then the transplant date will have to be moved back. I think Look, it's indeed three points shorter."

"It may also be affected by rainfall. The rain this year is not as abundant as last year, and it hasn't rained even a plow yet." Li Xiandong also interjected.

"Isn't this year's rain as good as last year's?" Li Xiaohan's brows began to wrinkle slightly.

Rain affects too many things. In later generations, 400mm of rainfall was used as the dividing line between agricultural civilization and nomadic civilization. Every time this dividing line moved south, it was a battle between the two civilizations for survival resources.

"I wonder if there is anything that can measure the rainfall?" Li Xiaohan looked at Zhang Fu and said slowly. She really didn't know how important rainfall was in this era.

"Can we measure the rain in this sky?" Li Hehua asked curiously.

"Yes," Zhang Fu's fingers holding the tea cup turned slightly white, and his tone had a hint of hardness that was hard to detect. "It is recorded in Qin Jiushao's "Nine Chapters of Shushu" in the Southern Song Dynasty that there are "Rain Measurement in Tianchi" and "Yuan Yao Measurement" respectively. There are several ways to record the amount of rainfall: "Rain", "Junji Snow Test", and "Bamboo Test Snow". Every year, the court also has a rain gauge to record the rainfall."

"Then if the rainfall is too little, the court should know about it, right?"

"I haven't heard anything about this this year. I'll go back and take a look. If there is any, I'll tell everyone."

The two looked at each other to make sure they understood the meaning, and then looked away.

"There shouldn't be any big problem. Although there is little rain, there is still some. If it is not enough, we will have to work hard to carry water." Li Xiandong said.

Farming is like competing with the sky. Wherever there is a good time, the weather is always good.

"That's true." Li Xiaohan said these comforting words, but he still felt worried in his heart.

They can carry water from the river to water crops here, but where do they get water from on the grassland? How can grass grow without anyone? If the grass doesn't grow, what will the cattle and sheep eat? Without cattle and sheep, what would the people on horseback eat?

Looking at Zhang Fu again, Zhang Fu seemed to be sipping tea with a calm expression. This was very unusual. The tea from the Li family, even the tea from the ordinary market, was inferior to the tea from Zhuangzi.

Seeing Li Xiaohan looking over, Zhang Fu raised his gaze and exchanged it slightly, then looked away.

Li Hehua let go of the topic of rainfall. After all, there were too many other things to ask.

After almost half a quarter of an hour, Li Xinhe came together with Patriarch Li.

Li Hehua finally finished asking her questions. Knowing that they had something to say to Li Xinhe, she left voluntarily.

Li Xiaohan and Zhang Fu also put away their emotions just now, as if nothing happened just now, and talked to Li Xinhe about the new academic affairs in Dingcheng.

Listening to the analysis, Li Xinhe frowned more and more, and finally said with a wry smile, "Actually, Hengdi and I have also analyzed this matter. This year's college examination questions are mostly about etiquette. The selected topics The article written by me is extremely irritating and has lost its sense of justice and peace. It is not my specialty."

Li Xinhe's strength lies in practice.

For a moment, everyone was speechless.

I just feel that these difficulties are one after another.

In the end, Mrs. Wang sent Aunt He over to break the silence, "Miss, Madam said the meal is ready, do you want to eat first?"

Li Xiandong knew on that day that someone would send Li Xiaohan back, and he had prepared meals in advance so that the person who sent Li Xiaohan would not have to go there with an empty stomach.

"Then let's eat first. After dinner, Young Master Zhang and the other eldest brothers have to rush back." Li Xiaohan stood up and said, after all, tomorrow is the Qingming Festival, and everyone has something to do, so let's take care of the things in front of us first. Let's talk about it after doing the things well.

After dinner, Zhang Fu took his people on horseback and said goodbye, agreeing to come back to pick up Li Xiaohan the day after tomorrow.

In the evening, the three members of the Li family had time to calm down and have a good chat.

"Why are you so busy with Bai Wa's affairs? I think you've lost weight." Mrs. Wang then said.

"Where have I lost weight?" Li Xiaohan said with a smile, "Mom, I am growing taller. I can eat two bowls of rice now."

"It's good if you can eat it." Wang asked again, "Why did Mr. Zhang send you back? Your father didn't say anything about it when he came back?"

"Master Zhang is here to support me. Dad, Brother Rong has just passed the examination as a scholar. Has my grandfather come to see you?" Li Xiaohan then remembered the purpose of Zhang Fu's visit.

"Dad came to see you?" Wang asked quickly.

"No, no." Li Xiandong shook his head, "Dad was very happy and never looked for me."

"Oh, that may be what Brother Cairong said." Li Xiaohan said, Li Cairong is quite smart in this aspect, he always knows where it can be used and where it cannot be used.

"However, the patriarch told me once or twice that if I have any difficulties, I can come to him." Li Xiandong added, "I have been thinking for two days whether this is what the patriarch said."

"Oh. No, you can go to the clan leader for anything. Think about it, I'm not at home. If something happens to you, if it affects the clan's pepper planting or wine making, it won't delay the clan's affairs. . Therefore, the patriarch reminds you that if you have any difficulties, you can go to him and don't delay the matter." Li Xiaohan said, taking over the job for the patriarch Li.

"Oh, that's it." Li Xiandong suddenly realized.

The night is getting darker and it's dawn again.

This year's Qingming Festival was quite peaceful. In addition to the fact that the clan is getting more prosperous, the sacrifices offered to the ancestors are more abundant, and the kowtows are becoming more pious, some people also have some small thoughts in their hearts. Come on.

After the Qingming Festival, Li Xiaohan returned to Zhuangzi and was busy with Bai Wa.

=== Chapter === 114

After the Qingming Festival, we settled in Baiwazhuang outside the city.

Li Xiaohan got off the carriage and just walked into the main room, Qingzhu was already waiting beside him.

"Where is the information I want?" Before he could rest, Zhang Fu had already asked Qingzhu.

"Sir, the data you need about this year's rainfall and previous years' rainfall in Qintianjian is already here, as well as the record of the dates when the Yellow River is closed and opened every year. But most of them are data retained by us in Dingcheng. The imperial court The latest news has not been sent back yet."

"Well. Let's take a look at these first."

Zhang Fu came closer and opened the pile of documents, and Li Xiaohan also gathered around to read them together.

"How is it?" Li Xiaohan was not sure about the ancient document format and description method.

"Look here, this is this year's rainfall." Zhang Fu pointed to a number, and then turned to other pieces of paper, "This is last year's, and this is the year before."

"Wait a minute, I'll record it." At this time, Li Xiaohan didn't care about his ugly handwriting, picked up a brush, drew two intersecting straight lines on a piece of rice paper, and then according to Zhang Fu's instructions The numbers represent the annual rainfall, and dots are continuously drawn on top, and finally the dots are connected into a line.

What else can help you more intuitively see the trend of rainfall than a line graph?

After more than half an hour, the results were obvious.

Zhang Fu looked at this picture and said with bitterness, "According to the comparison of data over the years, this year's rainfall is indeed much less than last year, but we did not receive a warning from the court."

"This kind of rainfall is slightly similar to that in the 17th year of Taihe. Are there any records from that year? How bad is the situation? How can it be saved?" Li Xiaohan felt his heart beating very fast in his chest.

Zhang Fu kept rummaging through the pile of books and skillfully picked out relevant records from them, "In the 17th year of Taihe, there was a drought in the Northland, and the harvest dropped sharply. The government recorded that the taxes in the Northland were reduced or exempted for one year, and Changping was opened. Warehouses distributed affordable grain for disaster relief. The rainfall increased the following year and the drought eased."

After Zhang Fu finished speaking, he breathed a sigh of relief, "According to the current trend, if the situation does not continue to deteriorate, it is estimated that more than 80% of the harvest near Dingcheng can be saved."

"What was the situation in the northwest back then?"

"But we can't tell if it goes farther west or north. We don't have detailed data on the situation there. However, in the 17th year of Taihe, the fighting was more intense than in previous years."

Going west to north is not the transit of the Wei Dynasty, it is the land of nomadic people.

The battle is fierce and serious. No one will wait for death with open eyes. In the face of survival, they will grab food if there is nothing to eat.

"The war will not stop this year." Li Xiaohan said resignedly. A year ago, he also said that he hoped to survive this cold winter and that the Western Tartars would withdraw their troops with the coming of spring.

"I will send an urgent and secret message to the prince in a moment. Remind that the other side will be on guard."

"Has the imperial court allocated this year's military supplies?" Last year, only half of the military supplies were given to those who buckled down. How is the situation this year?

"The memorial to Prince Ding has been submitted since the beginning of the spring, but there has been no reply so far." Zhang Fu looked at Li Xiaohan, with a look in his eyes that said there was little hope.

Li Xiaohan felt a cold air rising from his heart. Thinking of Zhang Fu's earlier news that the emperor was ill, he felt uneasy in his heart.

As an outsider, when watching a plot, I just feel that the general trend of the world is like this, and I can just avoid it.

But when we were in it, we discovered that the influence of the turmoil was everywhere. A person drank a sip of water, a bowl of rice, and wore a piece of clothing. Even if he tried hard to save himself, he was still in danger.

Because some people don't have food to eat, you have no guarantee of your own food, you can't sleep peacefully at night, and you can't get a sense of security if you keep accumulating during the day.

Looking around, there is no support from the rear, only Dingcheng fighting alone.

Li Xiaohan slumped on the chair slightly weakly, with deep Sichuan lines wrinkled between his brows.

Zhang Fu still maintained his usual upright sitting posture, but he no longer felt as relaxed as before. Inexplicably, he looked a little weak and helpless.

Or, in the face of the general trend of the world, the two of them are indeed weak and helpless.

I don't know how long it took, but Qingzhu and others knew that they were discussing important matters and did not dare to come and disturb them.

I saw the shadow of the sun gradually slanting to the west. The sunset at dusk slowly moved from the bluestone floor tiles at the door to the inside, and finally reflected on the desk. The light and shadow were blurred, making the data and text on the rice paper blurry. Unclear.

The faint voices of people in the distance, and the chirping of birds and crows coming from the surrounding mountains and forests, seem far away but also close, making this room even more quiet and lonely.

It seems like there are only two people in the whole world, and they don't know how time has passed.

"Drought prevention and control..."

"The imperial court has..."

Li Xiaohan sat up straight, Zhang Fu turned his head, spoke together, and then stopped together.

"We can't give up yet. The only ways to prevent and control droughts are to build water conservancy projects and deep plowing and irrigation. From now on, it will probably be too late for large-scale water conservancy projects. However, we can intercept rivers to store water, dig deep wells, and do our best to protect the water. Spring plowing."

Li Xiaohan said firmly.

"The imperial court has a policy of exemption. I went to find someone to discuss countermeasures and asked the prince to at least keep this year's harvest in Dingcheng. If the situation becomes more serious, then apply for food relief from the imperial court in advance."

Zhang Fu spoke decisively.

It's great to have someone to walk with you, even in difficult times.

Li Xiaohan showed a smile, "It doesn't matter, Taihe has been here for seventeen years. Now that we discovered it early, there is still a lot we can do, and the situation is not at its worst. We already know that the road ahead will be difficult, if The result is just a clearer understanding, which makes it easier to deal with it."

Thinking of the final ending of the book, King Ding is the final winner after all. I believe that if there is luck, it must be in Dingcheng.

Many years later, Zhang Fu could clearly recall this moment, as if this very ordinary afternoon was deeply engraved in his mind.

On this day, the early spring sunshine was very warm, and the yellowish light shone slantly on Li Xiaohan. Her whole body seemed to be shrouded in light, making people feel hazy and dizzy.

However, Zhang Fu could see it very clearly, from the single light pink velvet flower on Li Xiaohan's head to the tiny fluff on his bright face, his distinct eyebrows, and his eyes as black as paint. There was a smile and hope in his eyes.

I don't know if it was the sun that brought the light, or the light in her eyes. I just felt that the room was full of life and hope.

Zhang Fu couldn't remember what he was thinking or how he answered at that time. He only remembered that his blood was flowing happily from his limbs to his chest, and his heart was beating clearly and audibly.

"good."

Zhang Fu replied with a smile, as if he had leaned down and jumped from a height of ten thousand feet, believing that there was still light below.

Destiny has since reached a fork in the road.

"What good?"

Li Xiaohan only felt that Zhang Fu seemed a little distracted, maybe still worried about the drought.

"Master Zhang, Master Zhang?"

Li Xiaohan raised his hands and waved them in front of Zhang Fu's eyes. There was worry in Li Xiaohan's words. After all, Zhang Fu is a local and has no plot prediction, so he may be worried about it.

"Ah." Zhang Fu suddenly came back to his senses, with a hint of unnaturalness on his face. Fortunately, he usually had little mood swings and had been disguising extremely well since he was a child, so he was not discovered, "I said yes. , just do it like this."

"That's good. Then let's split up." Li Xiaohan said.

How could she not work hard and then surrender to fate? This is not her Li Xiaohan style.

"As for the white wax area, while there is still rain in the spring, I suggest digging more small pools in the open areas on the mountain, preferably vertical pools. That is, first dig a cylindrical well wall, and then dig a trumpet around the well mouth. The shaped water inlet can retain rainfall to the maximum extent, so that the water crisis can be slightly alleviated in the early stage."

Li Xiaohan frowned and said slowly, recalling the methods applicable to later generations bit by bit. This is a small water storage tank she saw when visiting a mountain orchard. Such a water storage tank is simple and practical, and can be built in one go. It has been used for many years, and based on their well-drilling skills, it is estimated that they can be built.

Speaking of water wells, "We can also dig deep wells at the foot of the mountain, as deep as possible. I think there is quite a lot of underground water in Dingcheng. When my well was dug, the water came out very quickly. In order to prevent the drought from causing the underground water, The water level has dropped, so we can dig deeper."

If underground water resources can be used, it will also be a big help.

Fortunately, when my family was digging a well, I didn't dig a shallow well to save money, otherwise I would still be in trouble now. I just want to remind the tribesmen that it is best to dig a deep well.

"I have to go home at the end of the month, which is the day when the winery house is opened. I have to go back to participate. The winery needs to dig a deep well, otherwise there will not be enough water by then."

The clan leader mentioned this matter to Li Xiaohan during the Qingming Festival, but at that time Li Xiaohan was not sure whether he could take the time to go back. After all, the white wax insects had to set their leaves on the trees before the awns were planted. Now it seems that no matter how busy you are, you have to go back.

"Yeah." Zhang Fu nodded while writing down the method Li Xiaohan said, "I'll go there with you then."

"That's OK. We'll call the Qing Gang Leader together when the time comes. After all, it's a grand opening, and it'll look good when everyone is here."

"…OK."

Inexplicably, I feel that the leader of the Green Gang is a bit redundant.

A few days later, the border line of Dingcheng was reached.

"Is this the news from Cheng'an and Miss Li?" Prince Ding said, holding up the thin stack of documents on his desk.

This thin stack of documents seemed very light, but Prince Ding felt it was as heavy as a thousand catties.

"Yes, we are taking the emergency secret road in the military. My subordinates did not dare to delay and sent it over quickly." Zhang Zhen, who was below, said respectfully.

"Take a look." Prince Ding handed the document over casually.

General Zhang Zhen also wanted to know what kind of news his son had handed over, which made the prince look so heavy. If something went wrong, I could only give my son an explanation.

However, after reading it, General Zhang Zhen's eyes were as big as copper bells. This was no longer his son's problem. "Your Majesty, the matter is so important. Is it safe for them, young people, to check again?"

"No need to check, I trust Taiping and the others. In fact, you have felt it, right? These days, the pressure on the front line has only increased. It is possible that there is some problem further north that we don't know about. "

"It seems that my life is not going to be easy anymore. I can't help but bow my head to my great-grandnephew."

"Your Majesty..."

"No need to say any more, let's order people to gather and discuss countermeasures."

"Yes, Your Majesty."

=== Chapter === 115

It was August, the twenty-fifth year of Taihe, and it was early autumn.

A large ship secretly marked with the word "Su" set out from the south of the Yangtze River and went north along the Grand Canal to Zhuocheng, where it docked on land and stayed for several days. The steward on the ship got off the ship with familiarity and invited a team of carriages and horses to unload the goods on the ship.

"Butler, we unloaded all the goods like this without a large number of servants to protect us and no one else came to pick them up. Is it safe?"

The speaker was a young man who came down with the fleet. He was wearing a white jade crown and mulberry-green silk and satin clothes, embroidered with rich and noble flower patterns. The silver dark threads were looming in the sunlight, making him indescribably low-key and wealthy.

The housekeeper secretly complained, Third Young Master, with the clothes you are wearing, it is not too late to worry about safety at this time.

But when I think about it, it is the first time that the third young master has come out to take charge of the business. Occasionally, there are small mistakes and omissions, which makes them more effective as old servants.

Therefore, the butler lowered his head a little lower and said in a more respectful tone, "Third Young Master, you don't know something. After getting off the boat, not far away is the fiefdom of King Ding. This area has been designated The city army sifted through it like a sieve, it couldn't be safer. Moreover, if Dingcheng people say they dare to rob the caravan from Jiangnan to Dingcheng, how many lives are there to chase and kill them in Dingcheng? .So there will never be those desperate bandits who dare to rob us here. Third young master, just rest assured."

"Oh." The third young master nodded with sudden realization, but soon tightened his slightly green face and said seriously, "When we go out, no matter how safe the place is, we have to be more careful. This is This time my father entrusted me with a great responsibility, and there is no room for error in this transaction."

Third Young Master, don't you know that it's because it's safe here that I felt confident that you would choose this place for your first trip? ! Otherwise, how do you think Madam would agree?

Although he was complaining in his heart, as a mature servant, the housekeeper naturally knows what should be said and what should not be said. His tone will only be more respectful, "Yes, what the third young master said is true, I will tell you to go on now." , be sure to be more careful."

Then, with a wave of his hand, he summoned the guard leader over and gave him some instructions. After hearing this, the guard leader nodded repeatedly and went back to give instructions. The guard team, which had been a little lax before, became more rigorous again.

However, in places where no one knows, there are inevitably some whispers;

"Why, the martial law has been enforced all the way, and I finally got to this place. I thought I could relax a bit, but why are the martial law enforced again?" A slightly younger voice from the escort complained in a low voice.

"Keep your voice down, the boss said. This is the first time that the third young master has gone out to do business on his own. You must maintain a good mental outlook, otherwise the third young master will be dissatisfied and go back to sue everyone." A slightly mature man the voice said.

"Okay." This was said with reluctance.

"Don't worry, it's just this section of the road. It won't be long before the third young master has no intention of talking to us."

Sure enough, just as the older voice said, the third young master was quickly distracted by other things and had no time to take care of the small escort team.

"Are the roads near Dingcheng so wide and flat? Don't you mean that most of the border areas near Dingcheng are poor mountains?" The third young master sat on the carriage and felt that the road was very smooth. Looking at the car curtain, I saw that the yellow mud road under the car was solid and flat. Although it was not as good as some of the roads around Jiangnan, it was still very convenient.

"Third Young Master, this is the only road leading from the canal to Dingcheng. It is said that people on the other side of Dingcheng said that if you want to be rich, you must first build a road, so they spent a lot of effort to open this road from Dingcheng. Build it to the mouth of the canal," the steward explained.

"Although these words are vulgar, but if you think carefully, they make sense." The third young master nodded.

"No, Dingcheng only accepts grain and wine for shipment. It is inconvenient to transport both of these. If the road condition is bad, it will be even more difficult. Now that the road is well built, it doesn't cost any money. We can transport grain here. Just treat it as two transactions," the steward said.

"That's the truth. I heard that food prices in Dingcheng are very expensive?"

"It's much more expensive than our Jiangnan. I heard that they suffered from drought this year and the harvest was not good, so food is very popular in Dingcheng. It's more affordable for us to exchange food for it than to exchange it for silver." The steward explained.

"Yeah." The third young master nodded and did not ask why the price of food in Dingcheng was so high that it was not equal to the price of food. After all, he could go out alone to do business in Dingcheng. Before leaving, his father still told him some truth.

It is said that there was a drought near Dingcheng this year, and the imperial court received complaints from Prince Ding every day. However, the imperial court kept pressing it but refused to issue it. It only reduced or exempted taxes in the drought-stricken areas near Dingcheng. They were all affected by the disaster. There are only a limited number of people who come up, so I might as well skip it to avoid having a bad reputation for the court.

However, there is no need to think about Changpingcang to provide disaster relief. It is said that the Minister of the Ministry of Revenue stated in court that the disaster near Dingcheng was not serious enough to open Changpingcang. He went through the family affairs and told the court that there was no margin, so King Ding himself Just think of a way to get through this new year.

What could King Ding do, so he could only buy grain from Jiangnan.

In addition to this, there is also the pedantic civil servant who said that King Ding would dig into the corners of the court and empty out the food reserves in Jiangnan. Once something happened in Jiangnan, King Ding would be the sinner.

It is said that at the great court meeting later, King Ding rushed to deliver a letter written with blood from all the people. Every word was written with blood, tears and cries, which only made the civil servants think nothing of human life and put the people of Ding city in dire straits. Vitality, a belly full of sages' books read into a dog's belly, should be engraved in the history books and be reviled by all generations.

It was only finished when the civil servant hit a pillar on the spot. At this point, no one dared to murmur anymore. After all, if you ask yourself carefully, no one dares to say that they can withstand the blood letters of thousands of people coming from Dingcheng.

As for Jiangnan, Jiangnan doesn't matter. There is nothing wrong with the drought in Jiangnan. They have plenty of food. They also don't want to bear the bad reputation of ignoring the people of Dingcheng.

The most important thing is that Dingcheng has several good things that are not available in other places and are what everyone wants. These are: Dingcheng's wine, Dingcheng's horses, and Dingcheng's light.

The wine of Dingcheng is the heart-burning wine of Dingcheng. This wine only requires a small pot to achieve the state of inspiration that the literati need. Compared with the frequent drinking of a full stomach of wine before, Out of respect, I don't know how elegant it is.

The horses in Dingcheng are the horses from the northwest land designated for harvesting in the city. After all, Dingcheng is connected to the grassland. Good news comes from King Ding from time to time. Xita does not have much money, but the horses in Xita are really good. . King Ding's war was not without some gains.

The light that anchors the city refers to the light of white wax. This small candle has successfully entered the daily needs of wealthy families. Compared with the smoky candles in the past, this white and fragrant white wax is countless times better. .

It is said that there is a saying now, "Only by riding the fastest horse, drinking the strongest wine, and lighting the most expensive incense can you come to the world happily."

Just because of this sentence, merchants from Jiangnan to Dingcheng came in an endless stream, but horses, wine, and light were all extremely expensive.

The goods purchased in Jiangnan are then distributed to various places. The largest distribution place is the capital. Therefore, the transaction between Jiangnan and Dingcheng is a transaction that cannot be forbidden and everyone is well aware of it.

Now, after hearing that this year's first crop of white wax has been harvested, Young Master Su San is given the important task of fighting for this piece of cake.

It's not like Mr. Su can rest assured about the third young master, so he assigned the third young master to take charge of such an important matter. What's really amazing is that there are actually purchase restrictions on these things in Dingcheng. A caravan can only purchase a limited share at a time.

It is said that a monopoly cannot be formed and cannot be controlled by some large merchants.

Therefore, if you want to have a steady stream of Dingcheng's goods, you must continue to exchange them with Dingcheng - Young Master Su San seems to have brought enough weight this time, but in fact, if something happens, it will only happen once. The weight will not break the Su family's muscles and bones.

Young Master Su San always feels that all this in Dingcheng seems quite normal when he thinks about it, but when he thinks about it again, it is extremely abnormal. However, for a while, I couldn't figure out the deeper meaning.

I just remember that when his father went out, he told him to read more, listen more, and think more after he went to Dingcheng, and it would benefit him throughout his life.

While Young Master Su San was deep in thought, the carriage and horses moved slowly, and the journey was as peaceful as the steward said. Before sunset, they finally arrived at the gate of Dingcheng.

The city gate is high, and the walls are mostly mottled and repaired. The city wall of Dingcheng was not built by this dynasty. Going back hundreds of years, starting from the previous dynasty, Dingcheng was an important defensive place to resist the invasion from the north. Not long after the founding of this dynasty, King Ding was entrusted to this place, so the city gradually became known as Dingcheng.

These traces of history are more like the medals and pride of Dingcheng: after many wars, it still stands proud as ever.

"Third Young Master, where are our family's documentary certificates?" the housekeeper came over and asked.

Young Master Su San took out a stack of documents from his arms. This is proof of the agreement with Dingcheng. With this proof, Dingcheng can be used to trade the agreed share of goods, whether it is white wax, fine wine, or fast horses, of course. , you can also get some preferential treatment.

For example, at this moment, after the housekeeper got the documentary certificate from the third young master, he trotted to the front and handed it to the city gate official. After the city gate official verified it, the pair of them quickly came out from the people lining up to enter the city. There were official errands. He stepped forward to check their goods, and after making sure there were no problems, he directed them into the city.

After all, they came here with food and raw wine. If they were delayed in entering the city because of waiting in line, even if there were no robbers, accidentally knocking them down would be troublesome.

The people of Dingcheng had no objection to the special treatment received by these merchants from the south of the Yangtze River. The civilians, carriages or official sedans queuing up all made way for the pair of merchants and signaled them to go ahead.

It was precisely because of these merchants from the south of the Yangtze River that Dingcheng had enough food to survive and had a steady stream of vitality.

It was the first time that Young Master Su San had received such preferential treatment and respect. Although his family had always been rich, they were farmers, farmers, and merchants, and in many cases they were still inferior in front of the officials and scholars.

But just now, he could clearly see that there were two sedans making way for them, and they were official sedans.

It is a maroon sedan with a silver roof and a soap-colored sedan cover. It has four bearers and four miscellaneous riders. That is the standard for officials and their families. The imperial court has clearly stated regulations that cannot be exceeded.

Young Master Su San thought about it, and the people sitting there were probably officials or family members of the feudal prince's palace.

In the past, he was the only one who made way for these people. He never thought that one day, these people would make way for him.

For a moment, Master Su San's young heart felt a little moist, and then it beat even more intensely.

Entering the city gate and walking along the South Street Avenue, they, the merchants from the south of the Yangtze River, have a special place to stay.

Young Master Su San raised the curtains and looked at everything in Dingcheng. He now had a very good impression of Dingcheng. He saw many people carrying baskets and carts on the road. Although it was said that Dingcheng was experiencing a drought, wherever Master Su San saw there was no sign of hunger.

Cars and horses passed by the government office. The government office in Dingcheng was not too wealthy, but there were many crowds around it. Many civilians were carrying burdens and patting the team. At the front of the crowd was a woman in green clothes, who seemed to be in the official position. What are you explaining to the crowd?

The distance was so far that I couldn't see what the girl looked like, but I just thought she must be young.

"Butler, what are you doing over there?" Young Master Su San couldn't help but asked curiously when he saw the crowd lingering around for a long time.

"Go back to the third young master. Over there is the pewter girl. The pewter girl is explaining the process of making wax."

=== Chapter === 116

"Miss Pewter?" Young Master Su San frowned slightly and asked in confusion.

"Yes, the third young master is Miss Li." The housekeeper explained.

Young Master Su San knew that there was only Miss Li who could be called the White Wax Girl, even if it was the first time she came to Dingcheng from Jiangnan.

"Then what is she teaching now?"

"The artificially cultivated white wax in Dingcheng has begun to be harvested, and the white wax girl is teaching everyone how to make wax. It is said that it is best to boil the white wax into wax on the day it is collected, otherwise it will deteriorate, so the white wax girl will teach you how to make wax. All the people in Dingcheng."

"You taught it like this? A method of making wax worth tens of thousands of gold? Are you afraid that this method will be ruined in the end?" Young Master Su San was shocked. Although he had always heard about this rumor, he still couldn't believe it when he actually saw it. .

"Yes. It is said that they have been taught from the beginning, from the cultivation method of ash seedlings, to the breeding method of ash worms, to the method of making wax after the harvest."

If the housekeeper hadn't traveled to Dingcheng many times and seen it with his own eyes, he wouldn't have believed it to be true.

How could someone be so stupid and so admirably stupid?

Apparently Young Master Su San also thought so, and couldn't say anything for a long time.

However, Master Su San thought again, "If that's the case, wouldn't we be able to purchase a lot of white wax from the private sector?"

You know, white wax is still in limited supply and the price is high.

"Third Young Master, it's useless."

The housekeeper ruthlessly interrupted the fantasy of his third young master. If this method was effective, why would it be the turn of the third young master, who was coming to Dingcheng for the first time, to think about it?

"First of all, even in Dingcheng, there are not many ash trees among the people. Many of the ash trees have not grown, and the ash insects cannot be cultivated. The most and largest ash trees are in the hands of the officials. Secondly, the officials in Dingcheng send people to teach They cultivate white wax and purchase white wax for a long time. There is a white wax purchase point next to Miss Li. Without a much higher price, the people in Dingcheng would rather sell the white wax to their own people. Thirdly, although the method of white wax is disclosed in Dingcheng , but the method of scented candles is not public. No one knows how to refine the most expensive pine and cypress scent."

Young Master Su San nodded. It turned out to be the case. After passing each level, no wonder Dingcheng dared to reveal the method of making pewter, but he was still sure that he could control the pewter trade.

Moreover, from the very beginning of the announcement of the cultivation and production methods of ash, Dingcheng was able to promote the cultivation and breeding of ash the fastest. In places outside Dingcheng, it took only a few years to go from collecting tree species to cultivating ash insects. There is no way to catch up with Dingcheng.

From then on, Dingcheng took the lead step by step. In the next few years, Dingcheng can eat everything from the most common white wax to the most high-end aromatherapy white wax.

How big is the market for candles?

The third young master of the Su family, who has been doing business for many years, knows best that the most profitable business in the world is to earn the rare money that only the wealthy families can get, and the other is to earn the necessary money that is indispensable for everyone. .

As long as they have seen the light, no one wants to go back to the darkness. No matter how much white wax there is, there are not many people in this world who can sell it.

The profit from eating white wax alone in Dingcheng will be at least three years.

When Young Master Su San was born, it was the first time he saw this kind of straight-forward business approach. Just like the spring tide in a river, you watch it rise, watch it gather, watch it rush forward, you can't resist it at all, you have no intention of resisting it, you only want to follow it and become one of them, watching it infiltrate along the river. Everything.

The amount of information received in one moment was a bit overwhelming, and there were too many feelings. It was a bit difficult for Mr. Su San to digest it, and he could only stop talking in the second half. The housekeeper did not have time to take care of the young master. Although he had been with the young master many times and was already very familiar with it, the housekeeper still had to run up and down to deal with various matters. He sent people to contact Dingcheng officials to come and receive the goods. There was no one in Dingcheng. Before that, they had to settle the goods and people. This person mainly refers to their young master.

When the lights were bright, the housekeeper made arrangements. They settled in an inn. This inn was a place designated by the government, so there was no need to worry too much about safety. The housekeeper took his young master to dinner. After all, he was tired of traveling all the way and he should be hungry.

After taking the people to sit down in the wing, Master Su San discovered that the environment of their inn was very good, but, "Butler, there is very little white wax here in Dingcheng."

"Master, they are reluctant to use it." The steward explained, "Before this year's batch of artificially cultured white wax was harvested, it was all wild white wax that was harvested last year. So far, it has been used very frugally. Yes. It is said that in Ding City, even the palace of Prince Ding rarely has white wax."

"That's it." Young Master Su San thought of the cultural gathering on February 2 this spring. The brilliant and magnificent burning ash of the tree was still vivid in his memory. At that time, he only felt shocked at the scene. Now that he thinks about it, he doesn't know why he felt a little uncomfortable. .

"Master, do you want to try Dingcheng's specialties?" The housekeeper thought that his young master was tired, so he deliberately mentioned Dingcheng's specialties to cheer up his young master. At least you have to eat before you can rest. Otherwise, resting on an empty stomach will harm your body. Your wife will definitely hold you accountable when you get back.

"What other specialties are there in Dingcheng? Let's serve them." Young Master Su San, who came from the land of fish and rice in the south of the Yangtze River, said nonchalantly because he thought he had eaten all the delicacies in the world.

"Waiter," the butler clapped his hands and summoned the waiter, "bring us a plate of spicy fried field snails, a plate of cold courgettes, and a hot pot. It's our first time in Dingcheng, remember it's slightly spicy."

"Hey, sir, don't worry. Wait a moment, I'll be there soon." The waiter responded crisply.

It arrived soon. Sure enough, the first thing to arrive was the courgette. The green courgette was patted into finger-sized pieces and soaked in a slightly brown sauce. There were occasional bits of red here and there, and there was a slight sour and spicy taste. radiate out.

"Is this pepper?" Master Su San asked, looking at the tiny bits of red ingredients.

Dingcheng's peppers are also very famous, and Dingcheng's flaming wine, the highest-end series is heart-burning, the mid-range series is throat-burning, and the low-end series is burning fire. The price of burning the heart is high and it is favored by the literati in the south; burning the fire and burning the throat are more popular among the common people in the cold north.

It is rumored that these three kinds of wine are all secretly made with paprika as raw material, but there are also many winery masters who said that the formula of Burning Heart is definitely different from Burning Fire and Burning Throat, but for a while, no one Can understand the wine recipe.

Young Master Su San knew that many wineries had secretly conducted experiments on many secret recipes. After all, the main ingredient of the previously called pepper wine must have been pepper. Burning fire and burning the throat can already brew a somewhat similar wine, but the burning heart But no wine shop can imitate the wine.

Therefore, the price of Burning Heart Wine is still high, and the wealth is harvested ruthlessly like a sickle.

Thinking of this, Master Su San became more interested in the dish in front of him. He raised his chopsticks and picked up a piece of courgette. Well, the sourness of the vinegar, the spiciness of the paprika, and the fragrance of the sauce blend into one, and the crispness of the courgette makes the mouth and tongue brittle, awakening the appetite that had been sleeping due to the heat and fatigue.

"Well, this dish is good." Young Master Su San ate a few chopsticks, feeling that his appetite had been whetted and he was very hungry.

Soon, the spicy fried escargots came. This dish is also available in some places in the south of the Yangtze River. Some people say it is indecent, while others like it very much. Mr. Su San likes it himself, but to maintain his character, he usually only eats it in Eat at home. But now that we are in Dingcheng, it doesn't matter which one.

"It's the best time to eat snails. Autumn snails are the fattest." Young Master Su San took one bite at a time, very skillfully. "Second Dad is already busy, hey, the fried snails in Dingcheng have a bit more flavor than those in Jiangnan." "

After sucking half a plate of snails, the hot pot came soon. Obviously eating hot pot in summer is not very suitable, it looks very hot. But the courgette and spicy stir-fried snails that I just had whetted my appetite. Young Master Su San, who originally wanted to eat a little bit, was full and sweaty after eating, and he just felt so happy.

Finally, pair it with a bowl of slightly cold sour plum soup, a worldly enjoyment.

"Come here, get some water. I want to wash up."

After taking a bath, Young Master Su San felt that his whole body felt much more relaxed, and he fell into a deep sleep in this night in Dingcheng.

After a good night's sleep, in the early morning of the next morning, while Master Su San was still drifting in his sleep, immersed in the aftertaste of his sweet dream, the door of the room was hurriedly knocked.

"Who?" Young Master Su San's voice was slightly displeased. Why did he wake him up so early in the morning?

"Master, it's me." The voice of his butler came from outside the door.

"come in."

The door was pushed open quickly, and the housekeeper hurriedly came in, followed by a waiter carrying a basin and hot porridge, "Master, get up quickly. People from Dingcheng came to inform that today Zhang The second young master will come over, hurry up, we are on the waiting list."

"Second Young Master Zhang, Zhang Fu, Zhang Cheng'an?" Young Master Su was completely sleepless and immediately got up from the bed.

Mr. Zhang naturally knew that before he came, his father had repeatedly explained that the official contact person in Dingcheng was Mr. Zhang. He is from a privileged background, has outstanding abilities, and is young but cannot be underestimated.

The secret information of the Jiangnan Chamber of Commerce and the development of Dingcheng to this day are that Miss Li and Mr. Zhang are the most important behind-the-scenes driving forces. It's just true and false. There are many secret recipes for Dingcheng, and Jiangnan doesn't dare to inquire too deeply. If Dingcheng thinks that they have some spying intentions, it won't be good.

Unexpectedly, as soon as I arrived in Dingcheng last night, I saw Miss Li, the pewter girl. Early this morning, I could see Mr. Zhang again.

Master Su San didn't know if he was lucky. In the end, his only sigh was that it was too early for Mr. Zhang. Arriving early, Young Master Su San had just washed up and put on clothes. He took a few mouthfuls of porridge and hurried downstairs - if he wasn't afraid of being hungry and making indecent noises, Young Master Su San wouldn't even want to drink the porridge.

When we arrived downstairs at the inn, other merchants had already arrived. It turns out that others had gotten the news earlier, but the Su family had just arrived last night, and they were not included in the original list. Later, it turned out that it was not good to leave the Su family behind. After all, the Su family is one of the few major merchants in Jiangnan. , although it was not the head of the family, Mr. Su, and the successor, Mr. Su, but Mr. Su was the sibling of the same mother, so Mr. Su was temporarily added to the list.

Regarding this, Young Master Su San only felt that he was a little lucky.

In less than a minute's time, Mr. Zhang and others came to the inn.

At first glance, Young Master Su San only thought that this man was very handsome. Then, upon closer inspection, he found that this man was so kind and sophisticated, and he could handle the dealings of Jiangnan General Merchant with ease. Third Young Master Su is a fledgling young man. Second Young Master Zhang even mentioned a few things about Master Su to him, and then praised Young Master Su for being very much like Master Su. He hoped that he could spend time in Dingcheng during his first visit. Be happy.

Finally, Mr. Zhang had a talk with the merchants in Jiangnan and left. This not only showed the host Dingcheng's welcome to the merchants in Jiangnan, but also secretly expressed what Dingcheng needed and had, making everyone appreciate Dingcheng. The next attitude is more clear.

It wasn't until Second Young Master Zhang left that Young Master Su slowly came back to his senses.

"No wonder my father said that having a son is like Zhang Chengan, and having a daughter is like Li Xiaohan." Thinking of what he saw when he came to Dingcheng, Mr. Su sighed deeply.

"Your father said so too." A person next to him echoed faintly, "What a coincidence, my father said so too."

=== Chapter === 117

Li Xiaohan and Zhang Fu didn't know that they had become the rumored children of someone else's family. At this moment, they were discussing things in the house on Qingming Alley.

Since the harvest of white wax began, they returned to the city. After all, it was more convenient to teach wax making methods, purchase scattered white wax from the people, sell white wax, and perform various other chores. So, gradually, the house on Qingming Alley became their base again.

Li Xiaohan came a little earlier and had just finished his work. The two came to the main room. Li Xiaohan poured Zhang Fu a cup of tea and asked curiously, "Why did you come so early today? Didn't you say that I wanted to meet you at the inn?" Have you ever met those merchants from Jiangnan?"

"I just came here after seeing you." Zhang Fu took the tea cup and drank it in one gulp.

"So fast." Li Xiaohan said a little surprised.

After working together for so long, Li Xiaohan naturally knows how hard-working Zhang Fu is. He probably stays up late and gets up early on weekdays. He is exactly the kind of person who looks ordinary and effortless on the surface. , but in private he has never relaxed. Li Xiaohan sometimes admires this kind of diligence.

She can't. She goes to bed early so she can get up early. If she goes to bed late, she has to get up late.

"I'm not happy. In fact, I just want to meet and express my attitude. Someone will follow up on the specific follow-up matters. If you stay too long, you will lose your style." Zhang Fu said.

Moreover, there is nothing good for those people in Jiangnan to stay for a long time. A group of businessmen and old foxes are secretly and openly exploring the situation in Dingcheng, hoping to increase supply as much as possible. Although it is said that the production of white wax and other products in Dingcheng has increased significantly this year, Zhang Fu does not plan to sell them all at once. Moreover, the military has repeatedly requested the supply of white wax as a commonly used medicinal material.

Everything goes according to plan.

"How is the situation here?" Zhang Fu asked with concern.

A few days ago, Li Xiaohan said he wanted to make something, and he has been busy here in Qingming Alley when he has free time these days. Qingming Alley was first used as a place where two people experimented with white wax. Today, there are still a group of the earliest craftsmen here who are constantly experimenting with aromatic white wax recipes.

No one could have guessed that this group of people inside this humble house were experimenting with the secret recipe of scented white wax that everyone from north to south wanted to know.

"It's done." After saying this, Li Xiaohan became visibly happy. He handed Zhang Fu a small white porcelain box and gestured, "Try it."

Zhang Fu took it and gently unscrewed the lid, only to see a ball of yellow paste inside, which was softer than ordinary white wax and more like a ball of yellow lard paste. When you get closer and smell it carefully, a rich and complex medicinal flavor comes to your face, which is cool, spicy and slightly stimulating. Zhang Fu only felt that his busy brain was stimulated to wake up a lot at this moment.

"This is?"

"This is tiger balm, which is made by mixing camphor, peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil, and clove oil with white wax liquid and solidifying it. These have a refreshing effect and are made for Brother Xinhe. I think he is the most I've been a little too tired from studying recently." Li Xiaohan said with a long sigh.

Since the Qingming Festival in March brought Li Xinhe the new academic materials, Li Xinhe seemed to have begun to try to change his writing style and worked harder. After the drought in June, Li Xinhe didn't know what kind of stimulation he received. He even forgot about food and sleep while studying, and became increasingly thinner. Now, autumn is approaching, and Li Xinhe is so exhausted that he is almost emaciated, which makes people worried when they see him.

Li Xiaohan occasionally saw Li Xinhe like this and began to hesitate whether he was putting too much pressure on Li Xinhe, especially Li Xinhe himself was a person who put pressure on himself.

It's a pity that Li Xinhe didn't listen to the advice now. Li Xiaohan tried to persuade him. He didn't know what he was thinking. He just said with a smile, "Xiaohan, as a member of Pingshan Village, I should also do my best." of our contribution."

Li Xiaohan tried hard to persuade him, but his conscience was too strong. Hearing that when Li Xinhe was tired from studying, in order to stimulate himself, he often washed his face with cold water, so he simply collected the materials and made this tiger balm. At least it has a refreshing effect, and you don't have to suffer the cold water people's suffering. Moreover, if you learn it, you can save some time to rest.

Zhang Fu was not surprised to hear that it was specially made for Li Xinhe. We occasionally met in Fucheng, and Li Xinhe seemed to be entrusted by Li Xiandong to come over to see how Li Xiaohan was doing.

Moreover, the two clan brothers and sisters seem to have a good relationship. At least they are quite consistent in terms of clan interests. They are not blood brothers and sisters, but they feel better than blood brothers and sisters.

However, even after hearing that the Tiger Balm was specially for Li Xinhe, Zhang Fu did not immediately tighten the lid. Instead, he applied a little Tiger Balm on his forehead, felt the effect carefully, and then said , "Recently, I occasionally deal with official duties until late at night, and I have to get up early in the morning, and sometimes I feel quite tired. Do you still have this Tiger Balm? Give me a box too."

The tone was very tentative, but the hands that tightened the Tiger Balm were slowly and slowly, as if they had no intention of returning it.

"Oh, this is the first box. Once the test comes out, the rest will be easy. If you want it, then will this box be given to you first?" Li Xiaohan said nonchalantly.

Our friendship, this box or two boxes, who comes first and who comes last, what does it matter?

"That's okay. Then let them make a box for Xinhe later." Zhang Fuji naturally put the box of tiger balm into his sleeve, and then said, "The white wax in Zhuangzi has been Start harvesting. According to what you said, at least 20% of the wax flowers on the branches of a tree should be left unpicked first, so that the male insects can breed after they grow up. However, after this period of time, as the wax flower production increases, the number of wax flowers will increase. The flow of people in the city is also more responsible. To ensure safety, I will find someone who knows martial arts to follow you?"

Although the merchants from the south of the Yangtze River are all big businessmen with a good reputation, there is no guarantee that someone will sneak into their entourage. There are too many secret recipes to secure the city. Although they have released a lot of false and true news, Li Xiaohan's reputation is also very great. If someone finds Li Xiaohan, there is no one around Li Xiaohan who knows martial arts. people. If something happens, it will be too late to regret it.

Li Xiaohan frowned slightly. She was not very used to having an extra stranger, but thinking about her current situation, it seemed that having such a person was acceptable, "Where did you find it? this person?"

"Can we let Qingsong follow you for the next two days? I have to choose another person. Then you can take a look and see if there is no problem before you stay."

Logically speaking, if Zhang Fu can make this suggestion, he can also choose the candidate first. As soon as Li Xiaohan agrees, he will send it over immediately. However, Zhang Fu instinctively felt that Li Xiaohan would not like this arranged situation. Therefore, Zhang Fu mentioned this matter to Li Xiaohan from the beginning, and waited for Li Xiaohan to decide on the candidate.

Sure enough, when he heard this, Li Xiaohan smiled and said, "Okay. Then let Qingsong follow me for two days."

There are four greens under Zhang Fu. Qingzhu is the most active and is responsible for most chores, while Qingsong looks the calmest. But when it comes to force, it seems that the green pine is the tallest.

After confirming this, the two continued to discuss other things. The grain brought by Jiangnan merchants was stored in the government's granary, but most of the raw wine was shipped to Pingshan Village, where half was used to make wine and half was used to distill alcohol. Nowadays, this alcohol has become a must-have item for the army, but it is covered more tightly than white wax. It is only called potion in the army.

It's just that this local method of making alcohol, even if they work hard to increase production, cannot fully supply the needs of a huge army.

Productivity controls everything.

After discussing these chores, it was noon again. After the two had lunch, the craftsmen had already prepared the latest batch of Tiger Balm and dried it until it was almost half dry - there are all kinds of tools here. , the craftsmen who distill the oil are already extremely skilled, so it doesn't take much time.

After eating, Qingsong set up an ox cart and took Li Xiaohan to Qingshan Academy first, and then went to the government office to stay for two hours to teach the law of white wax. During this time, the white wax had just been harvested, and the people who came to ask There are so many, it will be fine after waiting for a while. While Zhang Fu was busy with other things, the two of them were on different paths.

The carriage moved quickly and steadily, and arrived at the gate of Qingshan Academy. Everyone in Dingcheng knew Li Xiaohan now. The handyman was very quick to help with errands. After a while, Li Xinhe came with him.

Li Xiaohan looked at Li Xinhe, his brows slightly raised, and he lost weight again. His face was so thin that the contours of his face were astonishing.

"Brother Xinhe, you still have to pay attention to your health. Especially autumn is about ten days away. If you fall down at this time, all your efforts will be wasted. At this time, you should eat well and sleep well, okay. Take good care of your body, otherwise you won't have a good body, so don't say anything." Li Xiaohan persuaded and handed Li Xinhe a particularly large food box, which he had ordered the cook of Qingming House to prepare.

Li Xinhe took the food box and handed over an empty box, pretending to be relaxed and said, "I know. You are young, quite like my mother. I will pay attention to my body. These are all the things I lost before." Yes, starting from these few days, I have returned to my normal schedule."

Li Xiaohan rolled his eyes, "If my mother-in-law hadn't told me, I wouldn't have bothered to care about you. For such an old man, he is not sensible at all. No, this snake oil is for you. I learned it in the daytime. When you are tired, you can open it and apply a little on your forehead, which will have a refreshing effect. But don't stay up too late with this at night."

Li Xinhe put the food box on the ground, then opened the three small boxes in a cloth bag handed over by Li Xiaohan, unscrewed one of the boxes, took a good sniff, then applied a little more on his forehead, and immediately smiled, "This is good." .Exceptionally easy to use."

"As long as it's useful, you can keep it. I'm leaving." Li Xiaohan is also busy. Li Xinhe is such an old man, so he can just say a few words. He has his own ideas.

"Well, you go and do your work." Li Xinhe said.

Li Xiaohan got on the carriage and the carriage gradually drove away. Li Xinhe stood at the door and looked at it for a while, as if he was thinking about something. After a while, he picked up the food box and went back.

Everyone is working so hard and the road ahead is becoming more and more difficult. How can he relax?

Back in the dormitory, Li Xinhe had a relaxed look on his face, "Brother Heng, Xiaohan has brought me food again. She gave me a lot, let's eat together."

Lin Heng, who was not polite in the past, now said anxiously, "Brother Xinhe, did you see those words of mine?"

Since "The Light of Pewter", Lin Heng has also written several story books, all of which are more or less related to Dingcheng's specialties, so they have always had a good cooperative relationship.

"Didn't you give the stack that I asked you to sign earlier to the person who came to pick it up at the bookstore yesterday?"

Li Xinhe saw that Lin Heng had rummaged through the pile of books on the bed and made a mess. He was still rummaging through the books while talking, and his tone was very anxious. He quickly put down the food box and came to help.

"Is something missing? What does it look like?"

"It's a very thin booklet, it's not finished yet. Where is it? Where is it..."

"Is it the one you said you were going to destroy because it wasn't well written? Think about it, when was the last time you saw it?"

Li Xinhe knew that Lin Heng had written a storybook a few days ago, but later said that it was not well written and would be destroyed.

Just why delay until now? It's not like Lin Heng's character.

Since it needs to be destroyed, it shouldn't be anything important, so why are you so anxious?

Lin Heng straightened up, frowned and thought, and suddenly a look of surprise appeared on his face, "Brother Xinhe, I seem to have sent it out as a sample book by mistake. I'll go find it and get it back."

After saying this, Lin Heng walked out the door without waiting for Li Xinhe's answer.

Looking at him like this, it must be something very important. Li Xinhe thought to himself and shouted loudly, "It doesn't matter if you be careful or slower. I will help you apply for leave from the academy."

"Hey." Lin Heng's voice came back from outside the door.

Outside the academy gate, Lin Heng finally found an ox cart. After another half an hour, he finally arrived at the bookstore he had been cooperating with.

This bookstore was later purchased by Zhang Fu for the convenience of publishing scripts. Therefore, Lin Heng is quite familiar with this bookstore. After all, he is a writer. At this moment, he just hopes that it is not too late.

"Shopkeeper, could you please give me the sample book I sent yesterday to take a look at? I seem to have sent it to the wrong one." Lin Heng asked breathlessly.

"Already sent away." The shopkeeper replied a little guiltily.

"Where did it go? Give it back to me, that one was crossed. I'll refund the money to you."

"I'm here." Zhang Fu slowly walked out of the inner room and looked at Lin Heng, his eyes dark and unclear.

"Give it back to me!" Lin Heng slowly calmed down his breathing, straightened his back, and stared at Zhang Fu and said.

At this moment, the two no longer see the harmony they had when they worked together before. They are even worse than strangers, and hostility permeates the air.

"You collected the money, delivered the goods, and signed. Then it's not yours. Besides, you didn't make a mistake, you made a mistake."

As Zhang Fu finished speaking, Lin Heng's face became paler.

"I heard that you are staying at your mother's house. Your mother has been befriending you for a long time. Your mother's cousin has been sending you meals every now and then. So don't get involved with other people. Besides, other people don't care about you. There is no such intention at all. She is a respectable person and is not someone you should write about in your storybook."

Lin Heng's face became even paler, and he finally said, "That's not what I thought. I made a mistake in the rush during this period. In this case, please trouble Mr. Zhang to deal with it."

"I don't want this kind of thing to happen again in the future."

"There won't be any more." Lin Heng froze for a moment, then turned around and strode away.

Zhang Fu looked at Lin Heng's leaving figure, his brows furrowed tightly and his eyes filled with anger.

"Second Young Master." The shopkeeper asked in a low voice. He didn't want to offend the Second Young Master who was obviously unhappy at the moment, but the Second Young Master kept standing at the door and there was nothing he could do.

"From now on, the sample scripts sent by Lin Xiucai will be sent to the General's Mansion for me to read before they can be printed."

"Yes. Second Young Master," the shopkeeper replied. It was obvious that the Second Young Master and Lin Xiucai had a falling out over something they didn't know just now.

Seeing the second young master striding away angrily after giving instructions, the shopkeeper reminded himself that he must pay attention and pay attention again.

"Young Master?" Qingzhu, who was guarding the door, saw that the Young Master looked unhappy and asked in a low voice.

"Go back to the General's Mansion."

"yes."

Two rows of horses galloped quickly, and people who recognized them along the way secretly guessed: What happened? Why is the second young master riding so fast? Is there a change in the military situation ahead?

Back at the General's Mansion, Zhang Fu locked himself in the study. His face was tense and his breath was extremely unhappy. However, he still sat upright at the desk and spread out the thin book, page by page. of flipping through.

It's just an ordinary love story, between a poor scholar and a girl from the next village. In the end, fate coincides and they become a perfect match.

It's just that it's too similar, the description is too similar.

"Miss Bai has a pair of dark eyes, which seem to be filled with faint starlight and full of spring hope."

"Always full of vitality, and never gave up hope in the most difficult situation. It seems that with her, all difficulties and hardships will pass."

"I like to eat all kinds of delicious food and like to sleep in occasionally. When it's cold, I don't want to go out."

"She is very good at cooking, but she doesn't hide her secrets. Everyone likes this little lady."

…

The more Zhang Fu read, the more his hands trembled, but he did not stop. As if forcing himself, he continued to read unhurriedly.

The words are the voice of the heart, at least the words are the voice of the heart during that period of time. The person who wrote the book must be full of admiration for the heroine in the book that he was not aware of, and he unconsciously wrote her in such a beautiful and detailed way.

This heroine is as detailed and specific as a projection of a living person.

In the end, the writer discovered it, and the reader also discovered it.

How dare he! How does he deserve it? ! !

How dare he, a person who was almost engaged by default, have such thoughts.

What if after the manuscript is printed, people familiar with it see it?

It's never been easy for a woman, but if this word gets out, the rumors will not care whether someone is innocent or not!

Zhang Fu only felt that his heart was filled with violent thoughts, as if the killing instinct of his father and brother on the battlefield was rampant in his body. He just wanted to cover up this book and Lin Heng himself who had this thought, completely I forgot that Lin Heng had staggered the draft, and that Lin Heng wanted to get it back.

=== Chapter === 118

From the scorching sun to the dusk, only a little light and shadow were left in the entire study. Zhang Fu sat at the desk and finally slowly and bit by bit put away the violent emotions that were running rampant in his heart and hid them back in his own mind. Inside his body, at least on the surface, he was back to being that handsome and noble man.

"Second Young Master, it's night, do you want someone to serve you dinner?" Qingzhu asked worriedly outside the door.

He didn't know what happened specifically, but he could only guess that the young master had a conflict with Lin Heng.

It's just Lin Heng. How can he make the young master look angry?

Qingzhu couldn't figure it out, so he didn't dare to persuade him, but now the young master had been sitting all afternoon, and if he sat down again, he would feel numb.

"Sir, Miss Li often said that the body is the capital of everything. No matter what happens, you have to eat first." Qingzhu said tentatively.

After a while, a voice finally came from the door, "No dinner for now. Bring a brazier over and light a candle."

"Yes." Qingzhu breathed a sigh of relief. As long as he could move, it didn't matter if dinner was a little late.

The brazier was brought up quickly. The charcoal burned by the General's Mansion was naturally not bad. The bright fire light danced in the brazier. Zhang Fu tore out the book of words page by page and threw them in. In the end, only the remaining A few ashes flew away, but there was no other trace.

No third person will ever see it again.

I'm sorry that Lin Heng doesn't have the guts to write a second book.

Zhang Fu's brows relaxed slightly, then wrinkled again.

It's just that he can't be allowed to meet Xiaohan again.

Let him be locked tightly with his default fiancée.

Zhang Fu thought slowly in his mind, scanning it through his mind like a sieve, making sure that nothing else was missed in this matter, and thinking about how to deal with it so that he would not be contaminated by Li Xiaohan at all.

"Sir, will you bring dinner to the study?" Qingzhu took the brazier down and asked in a low voice.

"Send it up." Zhang Fu said quietly. He had to have a good body to do these things well.

Dinner at the General's Mansion was already prepared. Qingzhu gave the order and it was served very quickly, and the taste was very good. It's just that the frequency of each bite of Zhang Fu's rice is almost the same, and he can't taste anything delicious or like it.

There was one person who was not like this. Zhang Fu suddenly remembered the lunch meal. Eating with Li Xiaohan was always more enjoyable. It seemed like every meal was delicious and it was a wonderful time to be alive at this moment.

Zhang Fu sighed secretly, speeded up slightly, and finished the dinner.

The dinner plates were quickly sent out. Qingzhu knew that his young master was in a bad mood. After cleaning up, he wisely closed the door and stood outside to wait for the call.

There was only Zhang Fu left in the study again, and the candle burning quietly.

Opening the document, Zhang Fu could not help but stare at the burning white wax in a trance, despite the fact that he was supposed to deal with the official business piled up today.

If it is where the most white wax is burned in Dingcheng, the first place is the house in Qingming Alley, and the second place is the study room of the General's Mansion - because they are no longer satisfied with a single fragrance type, Qingming Alley has been debugging a variety of scents. Mixed scented scented candles. After the craftsmen pass the preliminary test, they will send the candles to Zhang Fu and Li Xiaohan. Only after they have tried and confirmed can they be officially mass-produced. Li Xiaohan didn't like to stay up late, as staying up late would make him less tall, so Zhang Fu did this most of the time.

For example, the candle today is one of the test candles. The top note should be a soft and sweet rose fragrance, and a lot of patchouli is added in the middle note. But it seems that too much patchouli has been added, and it will appear bitter. There is only a strong bitterness, and there are wisps of sweetness in the gaps.

Just as Zhang Fu's mood at this moment can be clearly seen in the silent night.

In fact, I couldn't hide it anymore. Why I could see it at a glance was because I also had such thoughts.

I was stupid and never noticed it before, or I didn't dare to admit it subconsciously.

Zhang Fu smiled slightly, wondering how much better he could be compared to Lin Heng.

Under the prosperity and wealth, he is a descendant of a family. He has no choice but to go to the dark side. It seems like a flowery place, but it is like walking on a tightrope. If you pass it, you will have high status and power, and if you fall, you will fall into the abyss.

Li Xiaohan is not such a person. She is always steady in her plans and takes every step step by step. The temptation of fame, fortune and wealth is not that great for her. No matter what situation she is in, she can live well.

In fact, the most important thing is that Zhang Fu knows very well that Li Xiaohan has no intention of Lin Heng, but does he have intention of him? !

So you can't expose it, otherwise you will lose even what you have now.

Thinking of the possibility of losing this situation, Zhang Fu's heart shrank slightly, and he felt a twinge of pain and endless fear.

Take your time and take your time to find opportunities.

The candle is still burning quietly, the bitterness of the patchouli gradually becomes accustomed to it, and the looming sweetness of the rose becomes more and more clear. Mixed and intertwined, flowing in and out with every breath, deep in the heart, making it impossible to escape.

Early the next morning, before dawn, Zhang Fu had already gotten up. After washing, he asked, "Is old Uncle Zhong here? Ask him to come see me."

"Yes." Qingzhu responded in a low voice.

After a while, Qingzhu came in behind a middle-aged man with a slight limp. This man looked about forty, with his hair tied up with a wooden hairpin, a slight beard, and a black cotton coat. He looked low-key and inconspicuous.

"Second Young Master, are you looking for me?" The voice was slightly hoarse.

"Old Uncle Zhong, I want to send you to protect someone." Zhang Fu said.

"Second Young Master, I told the general at that time that my legs and feet were inconvenient and I no longer wanted to do these things of fighting and killing. I just wanted to teach people in the general's mansion and provide for myself in my old age." The middle-aged man was tactful. Refused.

"Old Uncle Zhong, you are overthinking. There is no need to fight or kill. I want you to protect Miss Li." Zhang Fu said, and after thinking about it, "It's Miss Li."

"Oh, it's Miss Li who makes pepper wine." The middle-aged man suddenly realized, "I've taken care of the wine, so I'll go."

"Okay." Zhang Fu responded simply.

Qingzhu behind him was slightly surprised, and his breath was a little unstable. The middle-aged man named Old Uncle Zhong noticed it somehow, and turned around and told Qingzhu, "I won't be in the General's Mansion these days. Son, let Lao Bai take you when you practice."

"Okay." Qingzhu nodded in agreement, not daring to say anything else.

"In that case, let's go now, let's go see Miss Li." Zhang Fu stood up and said.

"Sir, you haven't had breakfast yet." Qingzhu said hurriedly, he didn't eat much last night, how could he not eat today.

"Let's go eat over there in Qingming Alley." Zhang Fu didn't even look back, and Qingzhu took a moment to catch up.

When we went to Qingming Alley, Li Xiaohan was still having breakfast. When he saw Zhang Fu coming in, he asked in surprise, "Why did you arrive so early today?"

In the past, Zhang Fu always had breakfast at the General's Mansion and then came over to handle a batch of official business.

On the contrary, it was Li Xiaohan. Because Li Xiandong and Wang were away, he lived alone in Fucheng and was too lazy to hire anyone. He often had three meals a day in Qingming Alley.

Moreover, the General's Mansion is quite a distance away from here, and the "Gumen Alley" where Li Xiaohan lives is not far from next door.

"I got up a little early today. I have helped you find the person I told you about the security issue yesterday. Bring him over and you can identify him." Zhang Fu lifted up his robe and sat on the other side of the dining table. Qingzhu He quickly ran down and asked the cook to prepare breakfast.

"So fast?" Li Xiaohan said in surprise. She thought it would take at least three to five days to choose a suitable person.

"Yes. This is old Uncle Zhong. He retired from the battlefield and used to be in the general's mansion." Zhang Fu introduced, "Old Uncle Zhong, this is Miss Li."

Li Xiaohan stood up quickly. He had already seen it when he came in. Except for the slight limp in his legs and feet, this middle-aged man named Old Uncle Zhong looked no different from ordinary middle-aged people, but he The middle-aged man who retired from the battlefield and established himself in the General's Mansion is a guarantee of his strength. "Old Uncle Zhong, I will leave it to you from now on."

Old Uncle Zhong swept Li Xiaohan from beginning to end with his eyes, nodded with satisfaction, and then said, "You are in good shape. I will be able to run fast when you need to escape in the future. The second young master said that the wine steward is enough, so I came." .You are welcome."

Li Xiaohan was a little embarrassed, otherwise he quickly became happy. In this troubled world, a veteran said that he was in good shape and could run for his life quickly. This was a great compliment. The diet and exercise I have put in over this period of time have finally paid off.

As soon as he was happy, Li Xiaohan smiled and said, "Thank you, old Uncle Zhong. Have you eaten, old Uncle Zhong? Do you want to eat some together?"

As soon as he said these words, Zhang Fu, who was beside him, froze for a moment, and then turned away his eyes as if nothing had happened.

"No need, we martial arts practitioners pay attention to practicing three days in the summer, three nines in the winter, and getting up early to practice. We have already eaten. You eat first, I will explore the environment and come back later." Old Zhong Uncle refused.

"Okay, okay. It's up to you." What a professional attitude. Just explore the environment as soon as you come. Li Xiaohan said quickly.

Old Uncle Zhong walked out of the main room, wandered around for a while, then turned into the kitchen and saw Qingzhu and Qingsong having breakfast inside.

"Old Uncle Zhong." Seeing Old Uncle Zhong walk in, the two of them stood up quickly.

"No, let me teach you from now on. Don't expose yourself outside." Old Uncle Zhong sat down very naturally and said, "If you have anything to eat, bring me some. A big one." Morning , I'm hungry."

"Yes, there are egg and meat porridge, steamed buns, goat's milk drink, and side dishes such as spicy turnip and spicy turnip." Qingzhu Qingsong said quickly and helped bring it over.

"The food is good." Old Uncle Zhong said, "On weekdays, Young Master and Miss Li discuss matters here? How is their relationship?"

"Miss Li is a delicious person. The food in this alley is prepared according to her taste. On weekdays, they often discuss matters here. There is a group of craftsmen here who are testing the formula of scented candles. Except here , during this period, Miss Li mostly went to the government office to teach people how to make white wax, and also returned to the Li family in Pingshan Village."

"Oh. It seems like Miss Li's condition is pretty good. She doesn't look like she's in any danger." Old Uncle Zhong said after swallowing a mouthful of buns. He thought that inviting him over was a way to hide. What a huge danger.

"Miss Li came up with many secret recipes, and she was alone. During this time, there were many merchants in the south of the Yangtze River, and the young master was afraid that there would be people with evil intentions among them." Qingsong explained.

"Yeah." Old Uncle Zhong was chewing a big mouthful of spicy radish, which tastes good when paired with porridge. He nodded and said to Qingsong, "Tell me about Miss Li again."

In the kitchen here, Old Uncle Zhong and others were talking about Li Xiaohan. In the main room over there, Li Xiaohan and Zhang Fu were also eating breakfast and talking about Old Uncle Zhong.

"I thought it would take a few days before you could choose someone." Li Xiaohan smiled, and based on the logic she had read in novels in the past, she thought she would be greeted by a female guard. After all, there are many roles on TV. She looks like an ordinary maid, but turns out to be a peerless master.

"If you finish it early, you'll be relieved." Zhang Fu said, "Why are you laughing?"

"I thought you would choose a female guard for me." Li Xiaohan said with a hint of embarrassment.

"Do you want a female escort?" Zhang Fu froze a little, maybe he didn't do what he wanted.

"No, I just made a guess." Seeing that Zhang Fu was serious, Li Xiaohan hurriedly explained, "I didn't know much about high-ranking people like you before, but I also guessed who Lianzi and Baihe would be. Not capable of martial arts."

Seeing that Li Xiaohan didn't look like he really wanted a female escort, Zhang Fu breathed a sigh of relief and explained to himself, "Lianzi Lily and the others in the General's Mansion are dedicated to serving my mother. I don't understand martial arts. My father, brother and I don't have a female escort girl in the house. If you want one, I'll ask my mother."

"No, there's really no need. Old Uncle Zhong is pretty good." Li Xiaohan straightened his expression.

"Hmm, old Uncle Zhong is very suitable. He came from the battlefield and has rich experience. He has been teaching guards in the General's Mansion these years, and his martial arts skills have not fallen behind." Zhang Fu strongly recommended Old Uncle Zhong, " Old Uncle Zhong is also the right age, he has almost watched me grow up, he is a little older than your father, and he is more stable."

I never felt that in the past, but now it seems that Qingzhu Qingsong and the others are still too young and look a bit dazzling.

Zhang Fu knew that he was doing something wrong and that he was sick, but he couldn't stop it and didn't know if there was any medicine that could cure it.

Zhang Fu sighed inwardly.

Some things are really like spring weeds, which have never been seen before. After a thunder, they grow wildly everywhere. Looking around, they are everywhere, and they can't be suppressed.

"Yeah. Old Uncle Zhong's is indeed the most suitable." Li Xiaohan nodded.

Old Uncle Zhong is so discerning. He also praised her for her good figure and discernment. Qingsong and the others sometimes have too much of a sense of inferiority and feel a little uncomfortable.

"Drink another bowl of goat's milk juice. This stuff is good for your health. The weather is very hot now, so drink more drinks so you won't feel thirsty." Li Xiaohan recommended to Zhang Fu his contribution to his height.

"Hmm. I think so too." Zhang Fu took a mouthful of steamed buns and a mouthful of goat's milk drink, and occasionally picked up a chopstick to eat. The food was so delicious that the noble master's airs were already seven. Lingbaluo didn't know where he was.

After breakfast, Zhang Fu asked again, "What are your next plans? How is the wax-making method taught there? Can you take some time after the seventh day of the lunar month? You have always said you want to learn it. It's a good time to ride a horse now, if winter comes later it will be too cold."

They were indeed very busy. Previously they thought it was okay to take a carriage, and they could do without Li Xiaohan's carriage and driver.

Now that I think about it, nothing would be as good as her own.

Just in case, really just in case, one day, it would be best for Li Xiaohan to get on his horse and leave.

"That's it." Li Xiaohan pondered for a while, then said after thinking, "A lot of people have asked about the method of making wax these days, and they may not be able to spare a whole day."

"Then let's go to the morning. The weather is comfortable in the morning, which is suitable for learning to ride horses. We will go to the government office later. It will take time for the villagers to get here anyway." Zhang Fu still did not give up.

"It works. That's it. I don't have a horse yet. Where can I buy one?" Horses are valuable assets at this time.

"Are you still worried about this?" Zhang Fu looked at it with a smile in his eyes, "A group of horses will come over in a few days. I will take you to pick them. After you finish picking them, they will be sent to Jiangnan."

"Okay." Li Xiaohan also smiled. She is now considered a small privileged class. According to her contribution, it is not too much to choose a group of horses first.

"I'll pick you up then."

"good."

The morning light shines in from the open door and window lattice, and the tiny dust particles jump between the light and shadow. The darkness in the most corner of the room is expelled, making people feel bright and warm.

This is the beginning of a very ordinary day, and it is the beginning of a day full of hope.

=== Chapter === 119

On the eighth day of August, in the early morning, the sun first appeared, warm and charming.

"After breakfast, are we going to choose horses?" Zhang Fu asked in a low voice after swallowing a mouthful of goat's milk drink.

"Wait a minute, I have to go to Qingshan Academy first. Two days ago, Xin and Ge asked someone to come over and say that the tiger balm I gave him was very useful for him. His classmates tried it and asked if he could give it to them. Make some, they are willing to pay, it doesn't matter if it's a little more expensive, the most important thing is to be quick, now that it's been made, I'll send it to them." Li Xiaohan also swallowed a mouthful of goat's milk drink and replied.

"Oh. Then how much are you going to charge?" Zhang Fu asked, and he began to think about whether this thing is very suitable for scholars, and whether it can be treated as a business. Making money is so difficult that it's too difficult?

"I'm not going to charge any money." Li Xiaohan said with a sly smile.

Why does she need to collect money? Qingshan Academy is a market for scholars. Is she short of this amount of money now? She is so short of fame!

We'll talk about making money or not later. Now let's build up a wave of goodwill, improve your character, and do a round of publicity.

Zhang Fu immediately understood what Li Xiaohan meant and smiled, "It's better not to charge money. This favor is better than money. But it's almost autumn now. Can you go there in person? Will you give me a message to Brother Xinhe?" Pressure. I remember you said that Brother Xinhe is losing weight day by day because of the scientific examination. It might be better to send someone to send him there. "

Li Xiaohan frowned. Indeed, during the college entrance examination in his previous life, the school did not recommend that parents put too much pressure on college entrance examination candidates. Li Xinhe has put enough pressure on himself, so why not let him prepare for the exam on his own.

After understanding this, Li Xiaohan nodded and said, "What you said makes sense, then I will send someone to deliver the letter to brother later. I won't go there."

"No, let Qingzhu deliver such an important thing. He is also familiar with Brother Xinhe."

"Qingzhu doesn't have to follow you?"

"Qingbai will be on duty today, and I'll give Qingzhu a day off."

"That's OK, then I'll trouble Qingzhu."

Therefore, Qingzhu, who was said to be Xiu Mu but was assigned a task both openly and secretly, went to Qingshan Academy with a food box and a box of tiger balm, while his master and colleagues went Go to the racecourse outside the city.

There are so many good horses. If you can't ride them yourself, you might as well take a look. Qingzhu felt sorry in his heart, but he didn't dare to neglect and sent him straight to Li Xinhe's dormitory.

"There are a lot of horses in this batch, they are very good." Li Xiaohan sighed. This was the first time she saw so many horses.

When I got here, I discovered that there was a reason why the ancients liked horses. It seems that it is not the same species as those in tourist attractions where every tourist can ride a horse for a fee. Only when I remembered that when I was traveling in Inner Mongolia and saw their own horse that the locals really loved, I became confused. I thought, oh, so this is their ancestor.

More spiritual, wilder and more powerful.

Li Xiaohan understood why so many people like horses.

Just looking at these horses, she felt a sense of galloping rising in her heart.

"This batch of horses is the largest shipment recently." Zhang Fu said, in order for Li Xiaohan to choose, the following quantities were shipped to a certain extent in advance.

"This is a war horse that has been on the battlefield. This kind of horse power is very good and very stable. If you are good at riding, this is the best choice." Guaranteeing Zhang Fu's introduction, It was Old Uncle Zhong and Qing Bai behind who looked at him with admiration.

"Can these be taken out?" Li Xiaohan asked curiously, how can the best war horse still go to Jiangnan?

"Not the best." Zhang Fu smiled, "When your riding skills are up, I will save the best horse for you."

"No need. I'll just travel as usual. I don't need such a good horse." Li Xiaohan quickly refused. It's like the future generations who only want a four-wheeled vehicle for transportation, and don't need the level of a Daben off-road vehicle.

Zhang Fu did not follow Li Xiaohan's voice and said whether he wanted it or not. He continued to walk and introduced, "These horses in the middle are artificially domesticated horses on the racecourse. They are well behaved, obedient and stable. . This is the most important horse for sale." Zhang Fu said again.

Li Xiaohan followed and looked at it. The horse in the middle was also very good, very familiar, just like the horse she usually saw Zhang Fu and the others riding. It seems that this talent is indeed the main force.

"However, you are just a beginner. I don't recommend that you ride a horse right away. It will not be good for you to get used to it. You can choose a younger horse from here and take your time. The horse will grow up with you. , such a horse is the most loyal."

"Oh, let me take a look." Sure enough, looking at the area pointed by Zhang Fu, the horse looks smaller and its eyes are clearer and more lively.

"How do you choose a horse?" Li Xiaohan was attracted and asked. Li Xiandong still had some experience in how to look at animals, but she didn't quite understand. But now that Zhang Fu is around, when it comes to horses, there are probably few people who are more suitable than him.

"There is a formula for looking at horses. Look at a piece of skin from a distance. Look at the limbs and hooves up close. Look at the chest from the front and the width of the buttocks from behind. Pinch at the waist and squeeze with the nose. There are three yellows in front of you. Open your mouth and look carefully. Get up. Come for a walk, it's better to ride a horse. (1)" Zhang Fu said with a smile, "Actually, it just depends on the body shape, limbs and teeth."

Zhang Fu patted the buttocks of several horses and said, "These horses are actually pretty good, and they are comparable. To this extent, I would suggest you to look at your eyes. In the end, when deciding whether a horse is suitable, you should actually look at it. What's more, it's the eye-catching relationship between the horse and you. It's very mysterious, but there is an indescribable reason."

"Oh." Although what Zhang Fu said sounded like nonsense, Li Xiaohan somehow understood what Zhang Fu meant at that time - when their family chose cattle, they chose big eyes, which means big eyes look... It's like talking, and it's easy to understand at first glance.

Li Xiaohan walked slowly, slowly observing the ponies in this area. He would touch the heads of those who liked them and feed the ponies a handful of wheat. Some were touched even if they were not fed, some were touched only after they were fed, and some were not touched at all. Li Xiaohan did not force them, and even joked a few words before walking away.

Finally, Li Xiaohan stopped in front of a brown pony. The first thing Li Xiaohan saw was that its eyes were big and black, its coat was shiny, and its body was soft but not weak. At first, it had no She immediately ate the food Li Xiaohan handed her, but after Li Xiaohan smoothed her fur, touched her head, and whispered to her if she wanted to follow her, she finally turned her head and rubbed Li Xiaohan. With his hand, he stretched out his tongue and finished the wheat in Li Xiaohan's hand.

"That's it." Li Xiaohan hugged the horse's head, turned around and announced loudly, his eyes shining.

"Very good, very matching." Zhang Fu looked at the man and horse hugging each other in front of him, and felt that it was also so suitable.

After choosing a horse, it's time to learn to ride it.

"First hold the reins, then put on the stirrups and get up." Zhang Fu stretched out a hand and made it into a fist to lend Li Xiaohan strength. The moment he was grabbed, it felt as if the tip of his heart had been pinched. A handful of the same.

"Relax, don't be afraid, don't be so upright. Okay, I'll lead you for a few laps, and you can feel the feeling of being on the horse first. If you're still a little scared, you can lie down a little and reach out to touch the horse. ears, lift your legs."

"Knock the horse's belly with your calf, which is acceleration; if you want to turn left, clamp the horse's belly on the right side, move your left calf forward, and pull the reins to the left..."

"If you want to slow down or stop, tighten the reins and shout, oh, oh."

"Okay, let's get familiar with each other today and get down. We'll continue tomorrow." Zhang Fu saw that the time was almost up, and stretched out his hand to lend Li Xiaohan some strength to get down first, "Slow down, and step on the stirrups firmly."

Li Xiaohan's face was flushed, his eyes were bright, and his forehead was slightly sweaty. He reluctantly got off the horse and touched the pony's body, "Sister, I'll come to play with you tomorrow."

"How is it?" Although Li Xiaohan seemed to be adapting well, Zhang Fu still asked.

"Very good." Li Xiaohan's eyes were particularly excited.

"Take the carriage back first. It's almost time to teach Bai Wa. Besides, it's your first day. It's best to get familiar with the feeling first. It's best to take your time."

"Okay." Li Xiaohan touched the horse again, got into the carriage with regret, and immediately opened the curtain to look at her horse.

The carriage was turning, alas, everyone else was riding on horseback, but she was the only one sitting in the carriage.

No, there is another Zhang Fu, "Why don't you ride a horse?"

"I'll accompany you." Zhang Fu explained with a hint of embarrassment, "I'm afraid you won't get used to it on the first day."

"Haha." Li Xiaohan smiled cheerfully, "You are such a good teacher. Do I have to pay you a tuition fee?"

Zhang Fu's expression froze slightly, and then he said seriously, "It's done, let's call him master first."

Li Xiaohan stared in disbelief, "Wouldn't that mean you are a generation older than me? No way. I'll ask old Uncle Zhong to teach me next time."

"I'm kidding you." Zhang Fu immediately changed the subject, "It's okay if I don't call you Master. What kind of thank you do you have?"

"That's about the same. I've taught you a lot about our relationship, so we're even." Li Xiaohan didn't want to have an elder above him for no reason, "But, have you had a good appetite recently?" ,I invite you to dinner."

"Invite you to dinner?"

"Yes, I'll treat you to a special clay pot rice. Come to Qingming Alley tomorrow night and I'll cook it for you." I just remembered it recently and felt like eating it, so let's make it together over there.

"Don't bother me. You are busy on weekdays."

"It's not a big deal. I asked the cook to prepare it for me. It doesn't take much effort."

"Okay then." Zhang Fu smiled, responding very quickly.

So, in the evening of the next day, Zhang Fu had a meal of claypot rice, and after receiving the teaching materials, he taught even more diligently. After doing this for about ten days, practicing for an hour or two every morning, Li Xiaohan could already run slowly on a horse.

On August 19th, after horse training in the early morning, Li Xiaohan returned to the government office to teach the wax-making method. Now most people have basically understood the wax-making method, and many people come here to sell wax. , there are fewer people learning.

Today should have been very relaxing, and the horse riding lesson in the morning went smoothly, but Li Xiaohan always felt uneasy, especially when his right eyelid jumped a few times in the morning, and he always felt that something was going to happen.

What's going on?

Li Xiaohan asked himself, but couldn't think of an answer.

Everything seems to be going very smoothly recently. The food crisis caused by the drought has been basically passed safely, white wax has been promoted smoothly, and there are no problems with the wine making. I have done everything I can, and there is still something left. what is the problem.

In the afternoon, when he returned to Qingming Alley, Li Xiaohan still felt uneasy.

At dusk and sunset, suddenly a person hurriedly opened the door and came in, "Miss Li, today's autumn is over. Your clan brother fainted as soon as he left the examination room. He has been sent to Renhetang. The young master has already rushed over. Let me Came to inform you."

Sure enough, I forgot that there is another candidate who may have problems, especially this candidate who has been in the examination room for nine days. The scientific examination environment at this time was harsh, and it was much more difficult than the college entrance examination in later generations. If something happened, it was not impossible.

Li Xiaohan suddenly realized that he should be here.

"Walk."

=== Chapter === 120

"What's going on? What's going on now?"

Li Xiaohan rode a horse on the street for the first time. When he got off the horse, his legs and feet were weak. Not caring about his fears, he went straight into the inner room of Renhe Hall.

"It's okay. Don't worry, Doctor Han is already looking at it." Zhang Fu arrived faster than Li Xiaohan and hurriedly came up to him.

Li Xiaohan looked in from outside the door and saw Li Xinhe lying on the hospital bed, with a sallow complexion and pale and peeling lips. If his chest hadn't risen slightly, Li Xiaohan almost thought Li Xinhe had died. At this moment, an old doctor was giving him acupuncture, frowning in thought, but not very embarrassed.

Li Xiaohan held on to the threshold, using some strength to stand still, and then asked in a low voice, "What are the details?"

After all, Li Xinhe was brought to this level by subtle tricks. Li Xinhe was definitely one of the important people in the life she consciously changed. If anything happened, she would be the one to blame.

Nothing is more precious than life.

Zhang Fu pulled a chair next to him and placed it behind Li Xiaohan, motioning for Li Xiaohan to sit down first, and then explained, "I just arrived, but there shouldn't be any big problem. Han The doctor is one of the best doctors in Renhetang, and he is very good with needles. Don't worry. Wait for Dr. Han to finish his work first."

"Yes." Li Xiaohan took a breath, relaxed his mind a little, and tried to calm down as much as possible. There was no use talking too much at this time. He could only wait for the doctor.

After about a quarter of an hour, Doctor Han steadily retracted the needle, and then said, "There is no big problem with my life. It's just that I have been weak for a long time and fainted. I need to recuperate. The problem is Not much. Whoever sent the patient here, I will ask about the specific situation and then prescribe medicine to the patient."

"I, I sent Brother Xinhe here." At this time, a man hidden in the shadows spoke out, and everyone realized that Lin Heng was here, "We just came down from the scientific examination venue, Brother Xinhe is not very lucky. , he was assigned to the bad number and didn't get much rest. He seemed to be a little unwell before he went to the examination room, and he kept trying to hold on."

Li Xiaohan looked at Lin Heng and frowned. Lin Heng was not in a good condition either. His clothes were wrinkled, his cheeks were thin, his lips were pale, and he kept frowning while speaking, looking down at the crowd.

"Next to the smelly number, I'm most afraid of fever or vomiting and diarrhea. I'll prescribe a dose of medicine first and drink it down later. I'll stay in Renhetang in the evening and observe it overnight." Dr. Han saw that Zhang Fu paid so much attention here. , and directly left the person behind. Renhetang has seen many problems with candidates. The environment next to the bad hall is not good, and it is most likely to cause vomiting, diarrhea and fever.

"Excuse me, Dr. Han, please take Lin Xiucai's pulse too. Don't get sick too. Qingzhu, prepare a place for Lin Xiucai to rest. It's not good to rest crowded here." Zhang Fu ordered. .

"Yes, Second Young Master. Lin Xiucai, please." Qingzhu stepped forward quickly.

Lin Heng lowered his head and followed Qingzhu out of the room without saying anything else.

Li Xiaohan had no objection to Zhang Fu's arrangement, but after going around Li Xinhe, he said, "I have to send someone to send the news home. The patriarch and aunt have to come up."

Li Xinhe will probably have to be waited on for a while. Besides, there is no reason to hide the truth from Patriarch Li and his wife - because the imperial examination is in Dingcheng, Qingshan Academy has always arranged the reference for the academy students. Li The patriarch's family is still in the village waiting for news.

"Yeah. That's the truth. I'll also send someone to deliver a letter to Lin Heng's family. I heard that his family is in the next village, and his mother and fiancée often visit him."

"That's right. Fortunately, he immediately decided to send her to Renhetang."

"No, I see that his expression is quite disgusting. It's more convenient for his family to take care of him."

After some discussion, the two decided to send someone back immediately to inform their families. In order to speed up, Zhang Fu sent two carriages respectively. When the people arrived, although the moon had already risen, it was not too late.

The two carriages arrived together. After all, it was getting dark and it was dangerous to drive at night. Zhang Fu specifically told them to wait a little slower and rush to Fucheng together. At least they had someone to take care of them.

Therefore, when they arrived, Zhang Fu and Li Xiaohan came out to welcome them. Li Xiaohan quickly brought the patriarch Li and his wife in, while Zhang Fu stayed to entertain Lin Heng's family.

But when Lin Heng saw his mother and fiancée coming over, his face was particularly complicated. From the corner of his eye, he saw the back of Li Xiaohan leading Patriarch Li and the other three people away, and his face became even paler, with almost no blood.

"Lin Xiucai, what's wrong? You look so bad, but don't hold on. At this time, it's more comfortable to have someone at home to take care of you. I have already booked an inn for you." Zhang Fu said seriously.

"Thank you, Second Young Master Zhang." Lin Heng's pale face turned into a smile, which was indescribably weird and sarcastic, "Young Master Zhang is so thoughtful."

"It should be. It's worth it." Zhang Fu was unmoved, and his tone was as plain as saying that the sun rises from the east every day as a matter of course.

You deserve it, she deserves it.

Both of them understood what Zhang Fu was talking about.

Lin Heng remained silent. Lin Heng's mother was a weak woman who might not be in good health. With tears in her eyes, she surrounded Lin Heng and asked, worried.

Instead, he acquiesced to his fiancée, who was probably from a farm family. He supported Lin's mother all the way. At this moment, his back was straight and there was no sign of exertion. He thanked Zhang Fu first, and then asked Dr. Han about Lin Heng's situation in detail. After knowing the precautions clearly, you can pay the money and get the medicine.

"Aunt, let's go. My cousin is not in good health. Let's help him go to the inn to rest first."

"Yes, yes. Hurry, Heng'er gets on the carriage first."

So, Zhang Fu watched the girl first take care of Lin Heng to get into the carriage, then help Lin's mother get into the carriage, and finally send the medicinal materials and baggage in before he went in.

She is a capable and good girl, what a pity.

After sending Lin Heng's family away, Zhang Fu returned to the ward. At this time, Li Xiaohan had already explained Li Xinhe's situation to Patriarch Li and his wife in a low voice.

"I just said come over and take a look at the child. It's you, a dead old man, who said that the child is older. The academy will make unified arrangements. Let's not get involved too much. Mr. Li, let me tell you, if the child is older, If there's any accident, I'm not done with you." With tears on her face, the patriarch's wife scolded Patriarch Li in a low voice, and then she leaned beside Li Xinhe's bed, holding Li Xinhe's hand, and shouted in a low voice , "He'er, don't worry about anything. If something happens to you, what will your mother do?"

"I didn't think that the child would be successful when he got older. I was wrong." Patriarch Li sighed, admitting his mistake and relenting.

The child is older, but the child is more stubborn.

He should have noticed long ago that his son has an arrogance that he doesn't know where he came from. In the past, when he was asked to worship Zhu Xiucai as his disciple, he insisted that he refused to go because the pear blossom was overwhelming the begonia. Now, for the sake of the clan, he has to let everyone Pressure yourself to learn the rigid theories that you don't like.

He thought that his son had learned harmony as he grew older, but unexpectedly his son just bent him.

It was because he, the father, was blinded.

Patriarch Li sighed, slightly choking, "Don't disturb Xinhe, let him have a good sleep."

After spending half their lives as husband and wife, no one understands the other. Why can't Patriarch Li's wife fail to hear Patriarch Li's regrets?

Li Xiaohan was left alone, and Zhang Fu, who had just stepped in, was embarrassed.

"Auntie, clan leader, Brother Xinhe is just overtired and overdrafted. He just woke up once and drank medicine. The doctor said to have a good night's sleep. As long as he doesn't have a fever, vomiting or diarrhea tonight, then he should have a good rest. Time will do it. Now I can't wake up even after noisy, because the medicine is working, don't worry." Li Xiaohan explained that these two old people must not get into trouble.

After asking Dr. Han carefully just now, Li Xiaohan guessed that the environment near the hospital was too bad and prone to bacterial infection, vomiting, diarrhea and fever, otherwise it would be better. No matter what, we have to wait until tonight.

"Xiaohan. Your aunt and I thank you very much. Your aunt and I will stay here tonight. You can go back first." Patriarch Li said, he would be worried if they don't stay here tonight.

"It's okay. Patriarch, you and your mother-in-law are resting nearby. There is a medicine boy on duty outside the door. He will come over to check on you every once in a while. Doctor Han is also staying in the yard behind Renhe Hall tonight. What's the matter? If there is something wrong, just shout loudly. I will go home first and come back to bring you breakfast tomorrow." Li Xiaohan said.

The medicine boy on night duty has already told him that he will come over to check on Li Xinhe at some intervals tonight. Doctor Han has also arranged a place to stay, and he will be there immediately if anything happens. Quilts and sleeping places have also been prepared for Patriarch Li and his wife, so be sure not to catch a cold.

"Okay." Patriarch Li listened to the arrangement, and the couple looked at the sleeping Li Xinhe without saying anything else.

Li Xiaohan gently closed the door and left. She came on horseback, and she was still being escorted back to Gumen Alley by Old Uncle Zhong and others.

After not having a good night's sleep, Li Xiaohan got up early the next morning and went to Qingming Alley first.

Zhang Fu had already arrived. Looking at Li Xiaohan's slight dark circles, he frowned and said, "Let's have breakfast first. There was no news last night, so that's good news. I've asked the cook to prepare breakfast and wait for you to eat it. It's over, let's go over there again. You usually say that the body is the foundation of everything, why don't you understand this truth now?"

After saying that, his tone softened involuntarily, and he advised, "Don't worry, Dr. Han's medical skills were no less than Dr. Zhang's before, and Renhetang has seen many cases of problems with the examination."

Li Xiaohan squeezed out a smile. This was the truth, but now she had some doubts about herself: Is it right for her to try to change other people's lives like this?

After finishing the meal absentmindedly, the two came to Renhetang again.

As soon as they entered the door, they saw Patriarch Li and his wife still standing by. Li Xiaohan put down the food box and asked, "Patriarch, aunt, let's have breakfast first. How about Brother Xinhe?"

After a brief glance, Patriarch Li and his wife were not young anymore, and they looked a little haggard. But when they talked about Li Xinhe, their eyes were filled with joy again, "I didn't have fever last night, nor did I have vomiting or diarrhea. When I woke up, I came here once and then fell asleep again. Dr. Han took a look at it and said it's not a big problem. He'll wake up after he's had enough sleep."

Hearing the words of the two people, Li Xiaohan felt relieved, and a smile appeared on his face involuntarily, "That's good, then the patriarch and the aunt will have breakfast first, so they can't overcook it. You still have to take care of Brother Xinhe after he wakes up."

"That's the truth." Knowing that his son was fine, Patriarch Li and his wife became energetic and opened the food box.

In addition to easy-to-digest white porridge for patients, the breakfast prepared by the cook also includes egg and lean meat porridge, large meat buns, and various side dishes. Patriarch Li and his wife were not polite and finished eating in a hurry.

After eating and Li Xinhe hadn't woken up, Patriarch Li called to Li Xiaohan and said, "Xiaohan, I know you are going to teach Bai Wa outside the government office. You can go and do your work. We will guard this place."

Last night, the medicine boy came over every hour to check on him, and his attitude was very good. In the morning, Dr. Han also came to check the pulse carefully, and explained everything clearly to them, and he didn't dislike them for being here. Long-winded questions.

Patriarch Li has also been to the medicine hall. How could he have seen such a good and serious doctor?

But it's all for Xiaohan's sake, they all took advantage of Xiaohan.

In this case, Xiaohan's business should not be delayed.

Li Xiaohan thought for a moment and then said, "That's it, I'll go to work first. The patriarch and my aunt will stay here with peace of mind. I'll come back in the afternoon. Don't rush back when Brother Xin and Brother can get up. Go I'm at Gumen Alley, we're in this city, so we can rest assured and take good care of ourselves."

"Hey. Come on, Xiaohan, thank you so much, mother-in-law." Patriarch Li was not allowed to speak at all, and his wife immediately grabbed Li Xiaohan's hand and agreed.

"Auntie, you're welcome. We are not all a family when we are away from home." Li Xiaohan said with a smile.

"Yes, yes, yes." Patriarch Li's wife replied repeatedly.

After a few more instructions and asking Dr. Han about Li Xinhe's situation, Li Xiaohan and Zhang Fu said goodbye and left.

Looking at Li Xiaohan's leaving figure, Patriarch Li's wife finally said, "Old man, you were finally right about one thing. Someone in this clan has made a difference, and everyone is indeed taking advantage of it."

"Then you have to be a good boy."

"Xiaohan couldn't be better."

Patriarch Li has no objection to this.

Li Xiaohan didn't know that Patriarch Li and his wife were discussing her behind her back. When she finished her work and came over at noon, Li Xinhe was already awake, leaning on the bedside. After eating porridge and drinking medicine, her face looked worse than yesterday. Come here, it will be much better.

"Brother Xinhe, you scared all of us." Li Xiaohan breathed a sigh of relief and said.

"No, this child doesn't know the importance at all." Patriarch Li's wife agreed.

"I originally thought of holding on for a while and getting through it, but I didn't expect this. Besides, the doctor also said that there is no big problem now. After the exam, I took a good rest and then came back. "Li Xinhe said slightly embarrassed.

Everyone ignored his theory of taking a break and then coming back, but now Li Xinhe is a patient, so if they don't argue with him, let him go for now.

"What did Doctor Han say?" Li Xiaohan asked.

"It's okay to wake up. You just have to continue taking medicine, take good care of yourself, and don't worry about it anymore." Mrs. Li said.

"Do you want to continue to stay here?" If necessary, Li Xinhe might even be able to stay.

"The doctor said that we can observe for another day, but if there is room, we can leave. There are many people in the medicine hall who are sick and have mixed qi, and it is not beautiful to nurse them back to health. Come back every two days to check the pulse and adjust the medication. most."

"Okay, then what are you waiting for? Let's go back to Gumen Alley now. I've already asked people to prepare the wing."

"Hey." Patriarch Li's wife said loudly.

As for Li Xinhe, no one listened to Li Xinhe at this time.

Returning to Gumen Alley, Li Xiaohan arranged a place for Patriarch Li and his wife to live, and asked people to send food and firewood. Patriarch Li and his family of three settled down with peace of mind, and took the bus to Renhe Tang Clinic every two days. One pulse. Li Xinhe's complexion gradually improved day by day.

In the early morning of the 25th, the Li family and Li Xiaohan were still having breakfast. Now in Fucheng, Patriarch Li went back to deal with family affairs. Patriarch Li's wife was wholeheartedly serving his son, eating, drinking and drinking. Rest, so even a small breakfast is extremely rich.

Even Li Xiaohan no longer went to Qingming Alley for breakfast. The breakfast served by Patriarch Li's wife was made with great care and meticulousness. It also had the unique flavor of Pingshan Village, which Li Xiaohan missed very much.

Only Zhang Fu had an unknown resentment. He would not go to Li Xiaohan's house to enjoy Li Xinhe's sick meal in a mansion as big as the Military Mansion.

Back to this day, Patriarch Li's family of three and Li Xiaohan were having breakfast. Gradually, they heard the sound of drums, drums and gongs, and the sound of people getting closer and closer from a distance.

Patriarch Li slowly froze and remained motionless while holding the bun. Seeing Patriarch Li's expression at this moment, others gradually guessed something.

But no one dared to say it first, for fear that they would guess wrong.

There was silence in the room for a while, and I could only feel my heart beating faster and faster.

=== Chapter === 121

It's not like everyone here has never thought about whether they can succeed in the examination, or whether they should read the results when the results are released today.

It's just that Li Xinhe was so ill before that it was hard for everyone to ask Li Xinhe how he did in the exam. Anyway, he was lucky to survive.

Later, after Li Xinhe got better, Li Xinhe himself never said anything about the scientific examination, so everyone mistakenly thought that Li Xinhe was sick in the examination room and did not do well in the examination. In this regard, Patriarch Li's wife was like a hen protecting her young. She almost wanted to keep an eye on Li Xinhe all the time. She would fall out if she mentioned her son's heartache.

Therefore, everyone has a tacit understanding not to mention it, and even deliberately ignores today's announcement.

However, at this moment, the noisy gongs and drums stopped at the door of Li's house. No matter how stupid you are, you can almost guess this possibility.

It was Li Xiaohan who reacted first, ran out and opened the door of his house. He saw a group of people outside the door beaming with joy. There were officials holding bright yellow good news, people holding short sticks, and the craftsman holding the window lattice. . This combination almost shocked Li Xiaohan.

"Excuse me, where are Li Xin and Master from Pingshan Village, Dingcheng?" the official asked with a smile.

"Yes." Li Xiaohan quickly replied. Although the others were a little strange, official duties do not allow for fraud.

After receiving a positive reply, the official led a group of people behind him and surged up. In the main room, Li Xin and the three of them had already stood up, with expectations in their eyes.

"Good news! Your master Li Xinhe has been ranked 17th in the urban and rural examinations in high school. The Beijing News has been listed in the top 100."

After saying these words, the craftsmen holding short sticks rushed up behind him, raised the threshold of Li's door by one level, and smashed a window three or two times. Before Li Xiaohan could react, the craftsmen Then the ready-made doors and windows brought in were installed.

"Congratulations, Mr. Li, for being promoted from high school to a new family." After all this was done, everyone cheered.

No wonder he came in with a short stick, no wonder he brought ready-made doors and windows. It turned out to be this meaning, and Li Xiaohan finally understood.

"Thank you. Thank you everyone."

Patriarch Li had already realized this. He clasped his hands and smiled so hard that he couldn't see his teeth. He reached out and took out the money bag from his arms and gave it directly to the leading official. You know, Patriarch Li brought a lot of money to treat Li Xinhe these days.

Sure enough, the official reached out to take it and knew the quality of the money bag. He rolled up the good news and handed it forward, "Congratulations, Mr. Li, congratulations, Mr. Li."

Patriarch Li narrowed his eyes with a smile, and pushed Li Xinhe beside him to let Li Xinhe receive the good news.

The eyes of the squire next to him suddenly lit up.

"This must be Mr. Li Xinhe. He is really young and promising, with great talent. I wonder if he is getting married?"

"Quinzi is married." Chief Li announced with a smile.

The onlookers' faces immediately showed expressions of pity: How could such a young man get married so early? What a pity. Marry young!

This is really true. Li Xinhe looked like he was only about 20 years old. Although he was ranked low in the list of candidates at this age, his potential was endless.

Besides, Li Xinhe is not bad looking. Although he is a little sickly now, he will be a good person with good features after he is raised. Being good-looking can be a huge advantage in official circles.

The squires all around looked regretful, but there were also neighbors who were purely happy. After all, there is a successful candidate here next door, and everyone wants to have some literary talent.

At this time, Zhang Fu and his entourage came over on horseback and shouted congratulations as they entered the door, "Congratulations to brother Xinhe for getting what he wanted. Congratulations to Patriarch Li. Congratulations to both of you."

"Thank you, Second Young Master Zhang." This man is the man who has won the imperial examination. Patriarch Li saluted with a smile.

There was another round of pleasantries, and after about half an hour, the crowd slowly dispersed.

"Clan Chief Li, please don't forget me when you invite me to have a drink someday, and let me share in the joy." Zhang Fu said with a smile, reminding Chief Li of this incident.

"Yes, yes, please drink. Our family must have a flowing banquet." Patriarch Li was reminded and began to imagine how to arrange a flowing banquet.

Patriarch Li has practiced this matter many times in his dreams, and now he wishes he could turn all his ideas into reality.

"Brother Xinhe, how is your health? After the announcement of the results, some classmates may invite you to have a drink and a banquet. If your health is not good, don't show off." Zhang Fu reminded again.

"I don't dare, I don't dare." Patriarch Li's wife said quickly, "He'er, why don't you just push me away?"

"Mom, in my current situation, how dare I go out to drink and have a banquet? Besides, I don't know which classmates have passed the exam."

"I do have this. I sent someone over early to copy a list of successful candidates, so I came late." Zhang Fu smiled and handed over a piece of red paper.

Li Xinhe quickly thanked him and took it, opened it, and Li Xiaohan also leaned over to follow.

"Fortunately, Brother Heng also won." Li Xinhe showed a happy smile on his face.

"Huh." Li Xiaohan said softly, slightly surprised.

Lin Heng's ranking is actually so low. Is it because it's a year early? According to the plot of the original book, Lin Heng should be among the best in Enke next year and advance straight ahead.

"What's wrong?" Zhang Fu asked gently.

"Brother Xinhe, it's a coincidence that you and your roommate are next to each other, just above Sun Shan." Li Xiaohan explained with a smile.

Sun Shan, the last one in the scientific examination. The ancients said that if Sun Shan is named, he has failed. Now Li Xinhe and Lin Heng are just above Sun Shan, ranking second and third.

"It's just a coincidence. I didn't expect to win. I was completely confused at the end. It's just a pity for Brother Heng. With his talent, he could have done better in the exam."

"What a pity, you are all still young. Besides, there are so many people, and it is their ability to pass the exam. Those squires just said that you are young and promising." Li Xiaohan said.

"What Xiaohan said makes sense. This ranking is not bad. It's all about the people's election anyway, so what's the ranking?" Patriarch Li's wife said quickly.

My son almost lost half his life by getting this rank in the exam. If he had been more diligent, it would be unthinkable.

A few people joked again, and Li Xiaohan and Zhang Fucai went out to work together. When they came back in the afternoon, Patriarch Li had already gone home to arrange other things, leaving Li Xinhe and Patriarch Li's wife to rest here - such a big thing , I must inform my ancestors as soon as possible, and there are still a lot of things to arrange.

However, before leaving, Patriarch Li took down the door sill added at the back of Li Xiaohan's house, removed the windows, and found a craftsman to replace them with new windows - the ones sent by the official, which represented the replacement of the door sill. with window lattice.

Okay, understandable.

After another two days, I finally got permission from Doctor Han. Li Xinhe's health was almost healed and he could go back to his hometown. However, he still had to take the tonics to support his body for a while.

Before leaving, Li Xiaohan had a chat with Li Xinhe alone.

"Brother Xinhe, if I say, if there is another life, it may not be so thrilling and glorious, but it also does not have such a heavy burden, and you can live a peaceful and step-by-step life. What would you choose?"

"What's wrong? My illness scared you this time." Li Xinhe turned around and asked worriedly.

"I just occasionally think that if I hadn't told you these things, maybe you wouldn't be so stressed. Maybe it would be later, but you could also happily take the exam." Li Xiaohan hesitated. After a while, he still said what he was thinking.

Although the plot of the original book is not stated, based on Li Xinhe's ambition, Li Xiaohan felt that he would not just stay silent in the countryside.

"Why do you think so?" Li Xinhe asked in surprise, "I wish I knew more and could do better."

"If I had this assumption, I would make the choice I do now no matter what time." Li Xinhe's face still had a sick look, but it showed more determination, "I am also in this family, this clan, this As a member of the world, I hope I can do my part."

"You can't take all the burdens off me and deprive me of my right to take responsibility."

"I understand, brother Xinhe. Let's work hard on our own and do better together." Li Xiaohan said with a smile.

Life is not a life written by the author, but a life created by each person's choice step by step.

She does not have to feel burdened by the fact that she has changed too many people. At most, she only provides an opportunity. It is always each person who really makes choices and actions.

At noon on August 29th, on the way back to Pingshan Village from Fucheng. A group of four riders rode in the air, raising a lot of dust.

"Drive." Li Xiaohan and Zhang Fu rode side by side in front. Now, she can ride on the horse freely. Although she can't ride very fast, she can run smoothly on this uninhabited road. .

Sure enough, riding a horse is fast. In less than an hour, the two of them had returned to Pingshan Village and headed straight to the patriarch's house. Today is the second day that Patriarch Li's family holds a banquet to entertain relatives and clan members.

Li Xiandong had been waiting in front of Patriarch Li's house for a long time. Li Xiaohan had previously said that he would come back after teaching White Wax Kungfu in the morning. Li Xiandong calculated that it was almost this time, so he went out early to wait.

Seeing Li Xiaohan get off the horse, Li Xiandong was startled at first, and then smiled and said, "I came back on horseback, okay, okay."

Zhang Fu followed and greeted him with the courtesy of a junior, "Uncle Li."

"Hey Mr. Zhang." Although Zhang Fu kept saying to call him Cheng'an, Li Xiandong would never dare.

"I'll show you how to tie up the horses first."

"Hey, Dad." Li Xiaohan said with a smile.

"This horse is really smart. This is the first time I've seen you ride a horse." Although Li Xiandong occasionally went to Fucheng and knew that Li Xiaohan had bought a horse and that Li Xiaohan was learning to ride a horse, it was really hard to see how well Li Xiaohan rode. This is the first time I am so skilled.

"Yeah, I'm awesome now."

"Yes, it's amazing."

The layout of the houses in Pingshan Village is similar, and Patriarch Li's house is just a little bigger. Everyone quickly tied the horses in the backyard livestock shed and added fodder before returning to the front yard.

As Li Xiaohan and the others strode through the door, they realized that there were already a lot of people there, but they were all familiar relatives and clansmen. Everyone gathered around, talking excitedly about Li Xin and the successful examination. All of them had a proud light on their faces.

"Xiaohan is back, come on, come on." Seeing Li Xiaohan come in, everyone greeted him one after another.

"Yeah, there are guests here, come in, come in." Everyone was very enthusiastic when they saw the unfamiliar faces.

There were also those who recognized Zhang Fu and felt even happier, but they did not dare to take the initiative to say hello and only whispered, "Master Zhang is here too."

"Xiaohan, you're back. My mother-in-law has been waiting for you all morning." Patriarch Li's wife came up today wearing a rich dark red embroidered silk dress. As a member of the Juren family, she, as the mother-in-law, can legitimately wear silk. .

"I'm back, come on, you guys sit here." Patriarch Li was also dressed in a tan silk suit with a wealthy back pattern. Although he tried to keep a straight face and pretend to be steady, he couldn't suppress the joy at the corner of his eyebrows and eyes.

Regarding Li Xiaohan's position, their family also discussed it last night. There was a precedent of being the chairman of the wine shop cooperation, and Li Xin and Li Xiaohan's help along the way to the imperial examination. In the end, Li Xin and Li Xiaohan fell ill this time. Due to Xiaohan's favor, Patriarch Li and his family believe that he should sit at the head table.

"Yes, Patriarch." Li Xiaohan did not refuse, smiled and held the hand of the Patriarch's wife, and praised, "Auntie, Patriarch, what you are wearing today is so noble and suitable. You look like a city." There is an official and his wife."

"You are the only one with a sweet mouth." The patriarch's wife smiled even more cheerfully, "Sit down quickly, sit down quickly. Master Zhang, sit down too."

"Congratulations to Patriarch Li, Mrs. Li, and congratulations to Patriarch Li, Mrs. Li." Zhang Fu was dressed very low-key today. Although it was silk, the style was simple and the color was elegant. He was very careful not to steal the spotlight from the protagonist.

"Thank you, thank you. We have a banquet in the village. It's a reward for Mr. Zhang to come. If there's anything inappropriate, just say it. If you're embarrassed, you can tell Xiaohan." At this time, it was actually the clan leader's wife who came to the banquet. If she is good at dancing, maybe the patriarch's wife doesn't need to pretend, she can really say whatever is on her mind.

"Mrs. Li, you're welcome. I'm friends with brother Xinhe, so just treat me as an ordinary junior."

"Okay, you guys sit down."

After talking for a while, Patriarch Li and his wife went to greet other relatives. Patriarch Li and his family have been extremely busy these days, but no matter how busy they are, they are happy.

After the two patriarchs left, Li Xiaohan pulled up a stool and sat down at the main table, leaving the other elders on the table stunned for a moment before they had time to react.

Weren't you really just kind words?

Is this why the patriarch left so quickly?

Why did Li Xiaohan sit down so naturally? Could it be that the rules of his ancestors have changed?

At the critical moment, it was the third uncle who spoke first, "Xiaohan is back. Didn't you delay your white wax matter?"

This is not an ordinary junior in the clan, this is Miss Li who was ordered by the government to teach the white wax method.

"Everyone just came back after teaching in the morning. The purchasing in the afternoon has been handled by others." Li Xiaohan said with a smile.

"That's good, but don't delay the affairs of the government." Third uncle said.

"Yes, what the third uncle said makes sense." Li Xiaohan was also very obedient at this time. As the two of them went back and forth, they cooperated tacitly and brought up this topic.

"I heard that Xinhe was ill this time. It was you who also sought treatment from the doctor. How many days did he take care of him?"

"It was Mr. Zhang who helped me."

"Xiaohan has contributed a lot to Dingcheng. I can contribute a lot at this time. I can help her and Xinhe, so I should do it." Zhang Fu was very humble at this moment, and even stood up to pour a cup for his third uncle. Had a cup of tea.

This courtesy shocked the third uncle for a moment, and then he picked up the tea cup and drank this rare cup of hot tea.

The tribesmen sitting here quickly changed their ideas after this conversation. They all felt that they could stand upright in front of the noble Mr. Zhang who came from the city, and they became proud: Yes, Xiaohan devoted himself to teaching the white wax method, what a great contribution this made. This is the daughter of their Li family.

Li Xiandong looked on with a smile. Due to the teaching skills of pepper cultivation and pepper wine, as well as the influence of his daughter Li Xiaohan, Li Xiandong also occupied a position at the main table today.

It's just that he was not used to feeling uncomfortable alone when his daughter was not here, so he would rather go out to greet his daughter.

"Dad, where is mom? I'm going to see mom." Li Xiaohan asked.

"It's in the east room."

"Okay, then I'll go over there."

After confessing his crime to the elders, Li Xiaohan went to the east room. The remaining people at the main table began to talk to Zhang Fu one after another, and Zhang Fu also accepted everyone who came and was very talkative, and the atmosphere became heated for a while.

Here Li Xiaohan came to the east room, and Mrs. Wang was sitting with Li Xiaoshuang in her arms.

"Xiaohan is back, hurry up, come over and let's take a look."

As soon as he entered the east room door, before he could say anything, Li Xiaohan was pulled in by a group of aunties. The main table in the main room was so busy just now, but they saw that Xiaohan was sitting at the main table.

Although this is not the first time, I am still shocked every time I know it.

"What a handsome man. The water and soil of Fucheng are good for nourishing people."

"If you ask me, the feng shui of our Pingshan Village is better."

"Xiaohan, are you busy and tired on weekdays?"

…

A group of aunts grabbed Li Xiaohan's hand, touching and asking questions to express their love. Li Xiaohan, who was quite comfortable just now, felt that he could no longer bear the enthusiasm, but he could only answer these questions with a forced smile.

No one had any ill intentions, maybe there was some envy in their hearts, but they just stayed in Pingshan Village all day long. Some people had never even been to the capital a few times in their lives, so the questions they asked were repetitive and limited.

After arriving for about half an hour, the banquet was almost about to begin. Li Xiaohan finally got away and returned to his seat.

"Sister Wang, I envy you the most in my life for giving birth to such a good daughter." Watching Li Xiaohan leave, an aunt turned her head and said seriously.

"Who isn't?" Several people at the table echoed, while others remained silent, not knowing what they were thinking.

Mrs. Wang responded with a slightly embarrassed smile, but did not refute.

In her life, she is most proud of having such an amazing daughter.

"I heard that Sister Wang also went to Fucheng to set up a stall for stir-fried pepper base. Why don't you tell us more about what Fucheng is like."

"Fucheng..." Mrs. Wang began to speak in a soft voice, and when the banquet started, everyone stopped with unfinished thoughts.

Patriarch Li's son passed the exam, so the banquet couldn't be shabby. A big fat pig was slaughtered in one day, and the banquet was very sumptuous, especially the head table, which had a stewed pig head. Place in the middle. This is a pig's head that has been sacrificed to the ancestors, eaten with incense, and protected by the ancestors. nice one.

"Can you get used to it?" Li Xiaohan asked Zhang Fu in a low voice.

"Of course I can." Zhang Fu replied by clipping a piece of pig ear.

After eating the banquet and chatting lively for a while, everyone dispersed, and Li Xiaohan was finally able to return home and talk quietly to his family.

At home, Mrs. Wang took Li Xiaoshuang to talk to Li Xiaohan, while Li Xiandong led Zhang Fu and Old Uncle Zhong to the wine shop - Old Uncle Zhong had long wanted to taste the newly released pepper wine, but now it was not just good.

It happened that the Li family used steamed wine and medicinal materials to experiment with a medicinal wine. It was a novelty, full of medicinal power and long-lasting power. Old Uncle Zhong was even more eager to try it.

Li Xiandong knew that Old Uncle Zhong was a master at protecting his daughter and was very enthusiastic. He took the decision and took a group of people to the winery, leaving the family home to the three mothers and daughters, especially Li Xiaoshuang, who had never seen his sister much.

"Xiaoshuang, Xiaoshuang, call me sister." Li Xiaohan supported Li Xiaoshuang and coaxed in a low voice.

Now, Li Xiaoshuang is still two months away from turning one year old, but she talks and walks early. She can already walk crookedly and call people indistinctly. It was the time when a little baby was most plump, tender and cute, and Li Xiaohan had a great time playing with it.

Ms. Wang also shouted, "Call me sister. This is the sister I tell you every day."

After coaxing him for a while, he finally got a toothy smile and a vague voice from his sister, and then Li Xiaohan stopped.

"When will you be able to teach white wax?" Wang asked. If it weren't for the inconvenience in the city, they might as well have fried peppers in the city.

"About mid-September. In fact, few people understand it now. Some people come to ask questions when they encounter problems, and after teaching about white wax seed retention, they can go home." Li Osamu explained.

"That's it." Mrs. Wang didn't know whether she should be happy or regretful, but in the end she was mostly happy, "Sure, when you come back, I can give you a make-up in autumn and winter. Look at you, just growing taller is not enough. Grow meat."

"Mom, isn't this good for me?"

"What's good is that being thin is not good." Wang herself has a small and delicate figure, but she admires those strong and upright figures very much.

"Sure. When I come back and raise it for a winter, the fat will grow out." Li Xiaohan said with a smile.

"How can you say that about yourself?"

…

The two mother and daughter talked and laughed. In the afternoon, after having an early dinner, Li Xiaohan and his party rode back to Fucheng. I have to get up early tomorrow morning to teach Bai Wa. It's inconvenient to live in Pingshan Village.

Time flies by in the blink of an eye, and in the blink of an eye it is mid-September. After teaching the white waxworm how to save seeds, Li Xiaohan is almost ready to go home.

On this day, Li Xiaohan was sitting in a carriage, thinking about comparing the white wax theory she knew in her previous life with the practice in this life. She didn't ride a horse much in the city. First, the crowds were dense and riding was not smooth. Second, Li Xiaohan was now in the city. Fucheng is already very popular, and people often recognize her while riding a horse, otherwise it would be convenient to lower the curtain of the carriage.

Suddenly, the carriage braked suddenly, and Li Xiaohan fell forward, almost falling.

"Who is it?" Old Uncle Zhong asked from the front.

"Sister Xiaohan, sister Xiaohan, is that you? Help me, help me."

=== Chapter === 122

The voice was so familiar that Li Xiaohan opened the car curtain and took a look: Li Xianxi's eldest daughter Li Lanhua, the Li Lanhua who had been weaving in the side room and was proud of being whiter than other girls in the village.

It's just that at this moment, Li Lanhua no longer looks as arrogant as she did in Pingshan Village. She is wearing a light pink satin dress that is definitely not found in Pingshan Village, but it is wrinkled and dirty. Although her hair is messy, it can still be seen that it was complicated at that time. His face was full of embarrassment and panic. He looked left and right, and his whole body was trembling.

Seeing Li Xiaohan sticking his head out, Li Lanhua seemed to have seen the savior, and crawled forward a few steps, "Sister Xiaohan, save me, please save me."

Li Xiaohan frowned, and his eyes quickly turned around, but there was nothing unusual. Then he returned to the shivering Li Lanhua, and finally said, "Let's talk about it first."

There was a lot of doubt in my heart, why did Li Lanhua suddenly become like this? Shouldn't she be in Pingshan Village?

But looking at it like this, no matter how much I don't want to have anything to do with the people in the old house, I'd better let her come in and make it clear before talking about anything else.

Next to him, Old Uncle Zhong looked at Li Lanhua from top to bottom. After confirming that there was no danger, he did not stop her.

After receiving permission, Li Lanhua simply rolled in. Not long after he entered, a group of evil servants chased him around the corner.

"Has anyone seen a runaway slave wearing pink clothes? That's the runaway slave who stole our family's money. Anyone who sees it will be rewarded with a tael of silver."

On the carriage, Li Lanhua began to shrink and tremble when she heard the voice.

There were timid people on the street who didn't dare to earn this kind of money, so they looked away; there were also those who were moved, but Li Xiaohan's bike frame didn't look like he was offended, so they looked towards him secretly. Li Xiaohan's carriage.

"The nobles in the carriage, we are academics and politicians. They are runaway slaves who have stolen money. They are the best at cheating. Please return it to us quickly."

Li Lanhua shook even harder and shook her head desperately.

Li Xiaohan remained silent, frowning more tightly as he looked at Li Lanhua, feeling that this matter was getting more and more serious: How did this academic servant's servant get involved with Li Lanhua?

Seeing no response, the evil servant continued to shout, "We are servants of academics and politicians. We harbor escaped slaves who committed crimes and are considered accomplices. So don't blame us for being rude."

Suddenly, Li Lanhua stopped shaking her head, shaking in fear and tearing apart her upper body clothes.

Li Xiaohan's eyes narrowed: They were all scars, old and new, all kinds of burns and whiplashes, piled on top of each other. With her complicated hairstyle and high-quality silk clothes, she was indescribably terrifying and weird.

Taking a deep breath of cool air from his heart, Li Xiaohan signaled Li Lanhua to hide in a corner, opened a curtain and stood out, looked around at the servants surrounding the carriage, and sneered slightly, "I'm going to watch it today. Look, in front of everyone, in front of everyone, how could you be so rude to me, Li Xiaohan, based on just a guess?"

Sure enough, after these words came out, the evil servants showed hesitation, but the two leaders looked at each other and were not ready to retreat. It was obvious that they were really eager to capture Li Lanhua.

Li Xiaohan was even more confused, but he did not flinch. He frowned, turned his head slightly and signaled to Old Uncle Zhong to prepare to use force to break through.

Old Uncle Zhong, who was riding next to him, slowly stretched out his hand to hold the handle of his knife wrapped in old wood and rags. The blade was pulled out from the inconspicuous scabbard, and a completely different cold light shone out!

The groom gently raised the reins, and the horse in front snorted and raised its front hooves slightly.

Neither side is willing to retreat.

On the verge of breaking out.

At this moment, among the people hiding nearby, someone suddenly shouted loudly, "It's the Pewter Girl."

"It's Miss Li."

Many people don't even know Li Xiaohan's name, they only know Miss Li, Miss White Wax.

The crowd gradually began to surge, and someone shouted in a low voice, "Quickly, report it to the government."

As soon as he finished speaking, several figures ran towards the government office. Li Xiaohan was going back to Gumen Alley from the government office.

The other people gradually gathered around and didn't speak. They just stared here, with doubts, disapproval, or anger in their eyes.

Public opinion became more and more popular, and the evil servants at the front slowly began to want to retreat.

"drive."

The coachman shouted softly, the hoofs of the horses in front hit the ground staggered, and the carriage gradually moved forward.

The car was not moving very fast, and the evil servant in front was so impressed by its momentum that he unconsciously gave way to a path.

Li Xiaohan had no expression on his face, turned around and got back into the carriage.

All the way to Gumen Alley without obstruction.

"Tell me, what happened? Don't try to hide it. You were able to escape from the siege of a bunch of evil servants and then accurately find my carriage. This is unreasonable. According to our In our previous relationship, I had reason to suspect that you were pretending to be miserable and cheating on me."

Li Lanhua looked suffocated and looked at Li Xiaohan, but Li Xiaohan was extremely ruthless at this moment.

Perhaps realizing that although Li Xiaohan had good intentions, he was not a mindless fool. Li Lanhua slowly spoke, "Two months ago, Li Cairong found me and said that he would send me to study in the government to enjoy glory and wealth. , and then somehow, after changing hands a few times, I entered the government school through a small door, and as a little maid, I went to serve my father who was studying government."

At this point, Li Lanhua's face showed deep fear and disgust, "Dad Xuezheng is already over seventy years old, older than our grandfather, and he has such perverted hobbies..."

"You are a good citizen, and Li Cairong is still a scholar. He is just your cousin. If you don't want to, people who study government can't force you." Li Xiaohan hit the nail on the head. It doesn't mean that Li Lanhua just believes whatever he says.

"I...I thought at first that I was serving the Master of Academic Affairs, so I signed a document and agreed." Li Lanhua smiled sadly, perhaps laughing at her own stupidity and greed, with a hint of despair in her words, "Later I thought Let's go, they told me that it was a contract of sale, and I was already a slave of the government, and the government could do with it whatever it wanted."

"Where's your brain? Didn't our clan say you shouldn't sign your name easily? Your father didn't tell you this? You have a brother studying, why don't you recognize him?" Li Xiaohan's eyes widened slightly. .

"...I can't read. Our clan says they should recognize each other, but there are a few women who can really read. Li Cairong said that what he signed was a five-year servant contract, so I took it as true."

"How did you sign your name if you can't read?"

"My fingerprints."

Li Xiaohan couldn't express his anger, so he could only continue to ask, "Then how did you escape?"

"I've overheard that the old man had this hobby for a long time. The nicer the family, the more young girls like it. Several people died in front of them. I'm scared." Xu Shi The most filthy things were told, and Li Lanhua became more and more fluent as she spoke, with a sense of hatred, "I secretly coaxed the old man for a long time, cheated him of some jewelry, and bribed the woman guarding the back door. . That woman was a gambler, so she was bribed by me, and she pretended not to care and let me escape."

"I know you teach the pewter making method in Fucheng every day, but I don't know where, so I hid along the way and secretly asked the government office where to go."

Li Lanhua secretly glanced at Li Xiaohan again, "I remember your carriage. It was this carriage when Mr. Zhang first picked you up from Pingshan Village to teach Bai Wa."

Li Xiaohan was speechless. This brain and this mind are not good for anything. He had to take shortcuts, so forget about taking shortcuts. He also accurately said to himself, "How powerful do you think I am? You signed a contract to sell yourself." As a slave of the contract, I want you to be able to compete with the third-grade scholar and government."

"Sister Xiaohan, please save me, I don't want to die." Li Lanhua kowtowed.

"You really don't want to die? What can you do to escape?"

If she was a coward waiting to be rescued, Li Xiaohan would shove her into the old house right now and curse Li Cairong a few times.

"I can do anything!"

"How much do your family members know about your prostitution? Does your grandfather know? Does your father and mother know? Who took you there?"

"Li Cairong took me there, and my parents and grandfather knew about it, but my parents only knew that I went to study government, and I never came back."

"Li Cairong sent you in, what did he want?" For no reason, Li Cairong is the kind of person who can't afford to be early without any benefit.

"He wants to enter Qingshan Academy. He feels that only by entering Qingshan Academy can he pass the examination and study political administration."

Li Lanhua smiled miserably, and then confessed, "At first he told me that when he wins the Juren Award, I will be the Juren's sister, and then I will give him a son and a half daughter for the political students." , you can be promoted to your aunt, and you will live a lifetime of glory and wealth."

Li Xiaohan was speechless, this made sense.

"Do you dare to bite Li Cairong?"

"I dare, if I really fail, I will take him as a support. He wants to make progress the most, and I will cut off his road to Qingyun even if I die." The hatred in Li Lanhua's eyes was real It's so strong, yes, Xuezheng can still get pregnant despite all his efforts. Xuezheng's father is older than his grandfather, and he's pregnant with a fart, and he's such a pervert.

"Okay, it's better to die than live. Get ready. First, ask a doctor to take a look at your injuries. We will return to the clan later. I can't handle this matter of yours alone, your father. My mother-in-law and grandfather all know it, so we have to find the clan leader."

Li Lanhua lowered her head and thought for a while, "Then I won't go to the doctor for now. Let's go back directly."

At this time, Li Xiaohan somewhat believed Li Lanhua's determination to bite Li Cairong to death, "Is your injury okay?"

"After enduring it for so long, I won't be able to die for a while. It has to be a little miserable to look more pitiful, right?" Li Lanhua said.

That's how you get moved.

Li Xiaohan kept looking at Li Lanhua, and finally decided, "Let's see the doctor first. You don't need to give me any medicine."

Then, Li Xiaohan asked someone to inform the government office that he had something to do tomorrow and he would not be able to go there. He asked the government office to find someone to replace him. Fortunately, there were not many white wax matters now, and other procurement matters were also dealt with separately. Someone is in charge;

Let someone tell Zhang Fu again that he needs to go back to Pingshan Village;

Finally, someone went to the academy to call Li Xinhe back. As the highest social status official in the Li family, Li Xinhe had to be involved no matter what.

Li Xinhe arrived in confusion, and when he saw the two clan girls, he was full of questions - what happened, he was brought here in such a hurry, and he was even asked to take a two-day leave from the academy.

"Brother Xinhe, let's go back and talk about it together. I don't want to say the same thing several times."

Li Xiaohan believed in Li Xinhe's character, but there was no need to repeat this matter again and again. Now that I have chosen to believe, there is no need for Li Lanhua to pull out the scars over and over again.

Li Lanhua didn't have the energy to talk about anything else.

Li Xinhe's doubts deepened, but looking at the state of the two people, he temporarily tolerated his doubts.

Along the way, Li Xinhe sat in front of the carriage, leaving the carriage to Li Xiaohan and Li Lanhua. Maybe she had relaxed, or maybe the carriage bumped, but Li Lanhua seemed to finally feel the pain and huddled up, but she disagreed with the advice to give her medicine.

The carriage and horses drove quickly and drove directly into the patriarch's house. Li Xiaohan and Li Lanhua came down together.

The patriarch and his wife happened to be at home. When they saw a group of people coming back, they asked in surprise, "Xinhe, Xiaohan, why are you back? This is an orchid, right? What's going on with you?"

"Clan leader, go in and find a quiet place, and let's talk later. Auntie, please come with us."

Everyone entered the study room. Li Xiaohan glanced at Li Lanhua and told him what happened. Then he asked Li Lanhua to add other things, and then asked the patriarch's wife to take Li Lanhua to the next room to check the injury.

The patriarch's wife took Li Lanhua into the next door, and then came back after a while with a very heavy face and nodded lightly.

Patriarch Li was so angry that his whole body began to tremble, and he cursed loudly, "Shameless. Ridiculous. My Li family has been inherited for hundreds of years and has a scholarly family. Even if it is not as good as it was back then, it is still a decent and good citizen. Today, such things as selling girls as concubines are actually happening. It is an insult to the clan tradition. It is an insult to the clan tradition!"

"Xiaohan, go and call your father and your grandfather's family!"

"No, Xiaohan, go find your third uncle, and Xin and you will go to their house."

Glancing at Li Lanhua who was kneeling aside, Patriarch Li took a deep breath and said, "Bring the people over first, don't disturb other people."

"Yes, Dad." Li Xinhe's face looked very wrong from the beginning. Although he didn't say a word now, everyone could see that he was so angry that he couldn't speak. Come.

Li Xiaohan also responded, "Yes."

When they arrived at Third Uncle's house, they didn't say anything about it, but Third Uncle was a mature man and guessed from Li Xiaohan's face that something was not good. The two of them arrived at Patriarch Li's house in silence.

About a quarter of an hour later, Li Xinhe arrived with Li Xiandong and Li Shengli's family.

Seeing Li Lanhua kneeling aside, Li Cairong's face immediately turned pale, and Li Shengli's face also looked very bad.

But Li Lanhua's mother-in-law, Wu Shi, was surprised and asked, "Lanhua, why did you come home? You're not... What's wrong with you? Why are you like this? Who bullied you?"

Wu stepped forward and hugged Li Lanhua, looking left and right with disbelief on her face. She went to study the government to enjoy the blessings of the daughter, why is she like this?

Li Lanhua paid no attention to Wu, only smiled mockingly, then stared at Li Cairong fiercely, and said with a strange smile, "Brother Cairong, are you happy that I'm back?"

Li Cairong's face was so pale that he looked disgraceful, his pupils were narrowed, and he was obviously thinking quickly.

Just not allowing him to think, Patriarch Li shouted loudly, "Li Shengli, Li Xianxi, Li Cairong, and the Wu family, if there is peace today, how dare you deceive and sell my Li family's daughter to become a concubine in exchange for glory and wealth?" . Especially you, Li Cairong, your book went into the dog's belly."

For a moment, the whole room was silent, and no one seemed to react.

"In the "Laws of the Wei Dynasty", anyone who devises a strategy to lure a beloved man or sells his beloved man into a slave will be punished with a hundred sticks and will be exiled for three thousand miles. Anyone who is a wife, concubine, son or grandson will be given a hundred sticks and will be slaves for three years. "

At this time, Li Xinhe spoke. He was indeed the most knowledgeable person, and his words were deadly.

However, at this time, Li Cairong smiled softly, "Li Lanhua is thirteen years old this year. She did the fingerprints herself and her parents agreed. It's nothing like a small sale. It's just a matter of mutual consent." The "Laws of the Wei Dynasty" does not say that you cannot ask yourself to be a concubine."

Look, when scholars do bad things, they are walking around in violation of the law.

Li Lanhua rushed over, "Li Cairong, you lied to me, you lied to me to press my fingerprints."

But he was pushed to the ground by Li Cairong, "What did I lie to you? You don't want to be rich and powerful. You don't want to follow the path of your aunt and join the government. You are all slaves. You are just unlucky." I'm just not serving Mr. Shangzheng."

"No, I didn't want to sign a contract of sale. You lied to me and said it was a servant contract. You lied to me, you lied to me..." Li Lanhua cried in despair.

Even she knew the difference between selling herself as a slave and being a domestic servant.

"What did I lie to you?" Li Cairong said, "There is no good thing in this world that doesn't come at a price."

"You also know that in this world, there is no such thing as someone else paying the price and you enjoying the results." Li Xiaohan slowly interjected, his tone cold and biting.

Li Cairong was suffocated. Li Xiaohan was not Li Lanhua. He dared to talk to Li Lanhua like that, but he didn't dare to say that to Li Xiaohan.

At this time, Mrs. Wu finally came to her senses: her daughter seemed to have suffered a serious crime instead of enjoying wealth.

"Lanhua, what's wrong with you? What's wrong with you?"

"What's wrong with me? What's wrong with me? Don't you see?" Li Lanhua looked at her own mother and finally reacted, collapsing madly and filled with hatred.

Patriarch Li's wife stepped forward to help Li Lanhua and took her to a side room. Wu quickly followed.

I only heard the sound of the door of the wing closing. Suddenly, I heard a cry of pain, and then the pain was mixed with panic words, "Orchid, my orchid..."

With a "bang", the door of the wing was slammed open, and Wu rushed out and grabbed Li Cairong's face, "Li Cairong, I want to kill you, I want to kill you, you send the orchids to where it goes."

Li Cairong dodges and resists wildly, but Wu is used to farm work. Li Cairong can push Li Lanhua down, but Wu catches her all over the head.

Li Cairong's mother-in-law, Xiao Chen, who was standing next to her, saw how her son could be harmed like this, and quickly flew forward to catch Wu.

It's just that Wu didn't know whether it was because she was greatly stimulated or because of a sudden sudden force. She pushed Xiao Chen down with a sudden move, and then rushed straight at Li Cairong. Li Cairong quickly hid behind his grandmother Chen, who usually loved him the most.

Sure enough, Mrs. Chen helped Li Cairong block it, but after all, he was not as young and strong as Mrs. Wu. However, at this time, Mrs. Chen also got up, and the two Chens, the elder and the younger, finally stopped the crazy Mrs. Wu.

"Li Xianxi, you coward with no courage or ability. Your nephew sold your daughter. Your mother and your second sister-in-law bullied your mother-in-law. If you don't help me, I will take my son away and let your second brother and his family I'll sit on your head and suck blood and shit."

"Mom, second sister-in-law, let go of my wife, you can't hit her one by one." Li Xianxi did not dare to pull away his own mother Chen, but he dared to pull away his second sister-in-law's little Chen.

As soon as Xiao Chen, the main force, was pulled away, Wu pushed Chen away and rushed straight at Li Cairong. From this, we can see who Li Lanhua inherited. If she goes crazy, she will kill the mastermind.

Li Cairong was really scared when he saw it, so he hid behind Li Xiannan again.

"Second brother, you are a grown man, why are you dragging my mother-in-law?"

"Li Xianxi, your second brother and his family are sucking our blood. If you don't fight back, you are a coward."

"Xiannan, Xianxi, you two brothers, please stop fighting. Stop fighting."

"Mom, am I your biological child? You usually show favoritism, but now you actually pull me and help my second brother beat me."

"Li Xianxi, are you a man? I am your second sister-in-law, and you actually dare to hit me."

…

There was chaos and fighting.

But the culprits Li Cairong and Li Shengli were far away from each other at this moment, looking at them coldly, as if this farce had nothing to do with them.

Li Xiaohan felt disgusted only for the grandfather and grandson.

"You are the patriarch, what do you think we should do?" Third Uncle asked in the chaos.

"First follow the clan rules, then follow the family rules." The clan leader said without hesitation.

Just a moment later, he hesitated and said, "Just for the sake of Orchid's reputation, I have to hide this matter."

"No, there's no need to hide it, that's it." Li Lanhua came out of the wing at some point, "My whole life is ruined, so I have to pay at least half of Li Cairong to make it count."

Now that it's public, Li Lanhua's reputation is gone, but since she sold herself into slavery, her reputation is of no use.

But Li Cairong, a scholar, deceived and sold his cousin as a concubine, and his career as a prostitute was over. Not to mention whether he could go to Qingshan Academy again, but any scholar who cherished his reputation would not be able to give him any more examination papers. Save. He is not yet a junior student, and his reputation is bad. It is very likely that the government will consider this and deprive him of his qualifications as a scholar.

"No, I am a scholar. Patriarch, I am a scholar. I am only fifteen years old this year. People say that I have talent in reading. I will definitely bring glory to the clan in the future. Patriarch, third uncle, you believe me .Believe me."

It turns out that this is his last resort.

However, his weights didn't work as well as he imagined.

"Blow the gong and open the ancestral hall."

=== Chapter === 123

"Why is the ancestral hall opened again? What happened?"

"Don't know? Does anyone know?"

In broad daylight, during the busy autumn harvest period in September, the gong was beaten again to open the ancestral hall for no reason. The people of the Li clan who came over were talking and gathering in the ancestral hall, buzzing like a pot of bees.

"Quick, stop talking, the patriarch is here."

Following the words, I saw Chief Li walking in front with a very serious face, followed by several tribesmen behind him, holding Li Shengli, Li Cairong and others behind. Xu Shi knew that after opening the ancestral hall, he could no longer defend himself. Li Shengli, Li Cairong and others looked very pale and frightened.

The chattering crowd quickly quieted down and looked at Patriarch Li in the middle.

Patriarch Li didn't waste any time and started directly, "It has been found that Li Cairong deceived and tricked his cousin Li Lanhua into selling him as a concubine. The evidence is conclusive and does not allow for sophistry. The head of the family, Li Shengli, acted with assistance and in accordance with the seventh clan rule of the Li clan. , Li Cairong planned to use twenty sticks, Li Shengli conspired with ten sticks, Li Xiannan, Li Xianxi and others knew about it but did not report five sticks."

How many blows did it take?

Li Xiaohan frowned and wondered, didn't everyone start watching TV with a stick of tens or hundreds? But there was no way to ask at this time. When it comes to clan matters, Patriarch Li has great authority. And at this time, the surrounding Li clan members made even more noise than before:

"Oh my God."

"Li Cairong sold Li Lanhua as a concubine, what did he do for it?"

"Orchid was sold as a concubine, to whom? Did she escape?"

"Shh, stop talking, follow the clan rules."

The crowd gradually became quiet again. Someone dragged a bench over and forcefully pressed Li Cairong and Li Shengli on the bench respectively. Someone also brought two old-looking wooden sticks. He raised the stick, straightened his waist, and lifted it from his hand. When you reach your waist and exert all your strength, this posture is exactly the same as threshing rice during the busy farming season. It is a solid exertion of strength.

Oh, Li Xiaohan understands that the Li family's fighting style is different from the imperial court's one-hundred-stick and the like, which is a no-sleight-of-hand beating. Spanking can't kill someone, but it can really hit someone.

And they didn't cover their mouths. Li Shengli and Li Cairong may have been trying to save their last dignity before, but when the first board fell, they immediately started screaming like they were killing pigs.

I don't know if it's a warning.

Among the onlookers of the Li family, Li Lanhua stared at the execution with a twisted expression. Others lowered their heads involuntarily with concern. Li Xiannan, Li Xianxi and others even began to tremble slightly.

The Li family's bats were played fast and urgently, and soon the sticks were finished. It was the turn of Li Xiannan, Li Xianxi and others, and there was a new round of wailing.

After completing the family rules, Patriarch Li's face still showed no signs of relaxation. "If we continue to implement the family rules again, Li Shengli, as the head of the family, fails to fulfill his responsibilities as the head of the family. He will be whipped ten times. Li Cairong, who is in charge of the plan, will be whipped five times. The rest will be whipped five times." 2. Brother Li Sheng takes the place of his father and holds the whip."

Li Shengyi walked out of the crowd without saying a word, and picked up a whip that looked quite old but well-preserved. At this time, Li Shengli, who was in tears, had his shirt stripped off again and was pressed down.

"Second brother...ah!"

Before he finished shouting, Li Shengyi's first whip had already hit his back, then he swung it again, and the second whip followed.

Li Shengyi had the strength and accuracy to kill a pig, and showed no mercy at all. Li Cairong and others trembled even more.

Soon, the ten whips were all finished. Perhaps seeing that Li Shengyi showed no mercy to Li Shengli, the others knew that it was useless to plead for mercy, so they had no choice but to wail in pain until the end.

Li Xiaohan discovered that the number of national laws, clan rules, and family rules of the Li clan was getting smaller and smaller each time. Maybe it meant that the country was bigger than the clan, and the clan was bigger than the family.

Or, in certain matters, depending on the severity, it is decided whether to follow only family rules, only family rules, or both rules.

But, it's so scary. The Li family actually has its own set of violent rules in addition to the national laws, and they are implemented so rigorously and flawlessly. Who is the ancestor who made the rules in the first place?

The Li family has inherited this rule for hundreds of years, and this rule is still recognized. The power and restraint of the family is so strong.

No wonder it is said that in ancient times, imperial power did not extend to counties, but only to clans.

While thinking wildly, Li Shengyi had quickly finished the round, and the remaining group of people, including the Wu family and Chen family who had suffered the least punishment, were lying on the ground wailing.

However, looking at the wailing people, Patriarch Li did not sympathize. Perhaps because of this decision, Patriarch Li explained briefly, "Because Li Lanhua was sold to an official family, the scope was extremely wide and the impact was extremely bad. □□We have decided together that Li Shengli and his family will be expelled from the clan."

"No, Patriarch, don't. Patriarch, I know I was wrong."

He had already endured the stick and whippings before, but at this moment, the Li family members were kneeling on the ground as if they were dead. Li Cairong got up and kowtowed, "Chief, I know I was wrong, I know I was wrong, no matter what I do, Give me a chance, give me another chance."

"You know you are wrong, then you will bear the consequences. We, the Li clan, can't stand a scholar like you." Patriarch Li was not soft-hearted at all. He was in charge of the clan, so how could he not see that Li Cairong was ungrateful.

He was still a mere scholar, but he already dared to betray his cousin to seek glory; if he had the chance, he would betray his clan without mercy; he was most afraid that one day, if he really held a high position, he might collaborate with the enemy and betray the country. , that is a serious crime against the Nine Tribes.

Patriarch Li is unselfish, and Li Cairong's kowtow is useless. The other Li family members have been shocked by the execution of extermination and don't know what to do.

Li Xiaohan looked at Li Lanhua. Li Lanhua was also shocked at this moment. Li Shengli was exterminated, and their whole family was inevitable.

"Split the family."

Li Xiaohan made a slight mouth gesture.

Li Lanhua knelt down with a plop, poked Li Xianxi, and said tremblingly, "Head of the clan, I am the master of suffering, and I ask for the separation of the family first."

"Yes, Patriarch, Patriarch, we are the masters of suffering, and I ask for a division of the family." As if grasping a life-saving straw, Li Xianxi and Wu clan kowtowed and cried.

You are such a bastard. Patriarch Li frowned, but he looked at Li Lanhua, then at the others, and finally looked at his third uncle, "Okay. You stay in the Li clan."

When they heard that they could stay, Li Xianxi and Wu slumped to the ground, not even asking how the family would be separated.

"The Li family is not allowed to be taken out of the fields and houses. You can divide the rest among yourself."

They were not allowed to escape, but Patriarch Li was kind enough to see how old and young they were.

However, it was obvious that Li Shengli did not accept this mercy. He turned around with a wrinkled and ugly old face and looked around.

"Xian Dong, I am your biological father, you must support me. You cannot just watch me die. I will follow you."

Li Xiandong, who had been silent until now, was suffocated. For the first time, this honest man felt disgusted and hated his biological father.

He would rather not be Li Shengli's son.

However, he was indeed born by Li Shengli, and his biological father said he was going to die and wanted to follow him.

"Dad, we have separated a long time ago." Li Xiandong said dryly.

"I will divide them all now. I am alone, and I will give you all the property." Li Shengli's eyes shone strangely.

"I do not want!"

Li Xiandong was simply frightened and took a step back in a hurry.

"I'll give it to you if you don't want it." Li Shengli seemed to have caught Li Xiandong's weakness and pursued him closely.

It's so disgusting, it's like force buying and selling.

Li Xiaohan couldn't help it anymore, "Clan leader, second uncle, I heard that my eldest uncle Li Shengren's family was lost in exile. His body was not found, and his family was cut off. Is it okay for my father to adopt the lineage of my eldest uncle? I can't let it happen. The eldest son has lost his inheritance!"

"No! I don't agree!" Li Shengli suddenly turned his head and stared at Li Xiaohan with a gnawing look in his eyes.

It's a pity that Li Xiaohan is not afraid.

"My brother takes over as father, and I agree." It was Li Shengyi's voice.

"Second brother. Why don't you help me! I am your biological brother."

"You did something wrong. I can't let you drag down Xiandong." Li Shengyi finally spoke, but it made Li Shengli even more desperate.

"As the clan leader, I declare that Li Xiandong will be adopted as Li Shengren's son and inherit the Li Shengren lineage."

After the adoption, he no longer had any relationship with his biological parents. Li Shengli still had two biological sons, and he could not rely on Li Xiandong.

Li Xiandong breathed a sigh of relief and escaped.

Li Shengli looked desperate. In fact, his only choice now was Li Xiannan.

But now Li Xiannan's family also has complicated expressions.

"Drag them out. Those who want to eliminate the clan must leave our Li clan within seven days."

The main reason why they could be given seven days was because Li Xianxi wanted to separate the family, and Li Shengli and others had just been tortured and were unlikely to leave, so he had to endure nausea and send them out in a car.

However, they could not wait for seven days. On the third day, Li Shengli's family left the Li family with large and small bags in the invited ox cart, amid constant quarreling and scolding all day long, and was no longer seen. Later, some people said that they had seen them in Pingcheng, but the old one was poor and the young one was crazy about wanting to take the top exam. After the war, no news about them was heard again.

But this is all for the future. At this moment, after the processing was completed, the Li family dispersed, Li Shengli and others were dragged away, but Li Lanhua was left behind, and the Wu family also stayed behind. Seeing this, Li Xianxi also Don't dare to leave.

The people who stayed in the ancestral hall included the third uncle, Patriarch Li, Li Xinhe, Li Xiaohan, Li Xiandong, and Li Lanhua's family. They stayed to discuss what to do about Li Lanhua's matter—Li Shengli's family could be divided according to their clan It is handled according to the family rules, but the academic politician is not a figure that the Li family can touch. He is a third-rank official in the imperial court. They are the only one in their small clan who is still subject to the academic administration.

"You said you fingerprinted the document? People who studied government told you that it was a deed of betrayal? Who told you?" Patriarch Li asked with a frown.

"When I wanted to leave for the first time, the people in the mansion almost caught me back. Aunt told me." After thinking about it, Li Lanhua said bitterly, "It's Mrs. Xuezheng's nanny. "

A nanny who is the head of the house must have really sold herself out.

Patriarch Li sighed. Although Li Cairong is hateful, he is also somewhat smart. He followed the bottom line of the law and did the following:

Li Lanhua is over thirteen years old, and only those under ten years old can be directly sold. Li Lanhua also pressed his fingerprints, so there is no excuse. Although Li Lanhua is said to have been deceived, the government can also directly say that Li Lanhua agrees. Understand.

After a moment of silence, the three members of Li Lanhua's family gradually realized that there was probably no way out of the fact that Li Lanhua was a slave.

Wu gradually began to cry, and Li Lanhua shed that layer of hatred, but slowly revealed her despair.

After a long silence, Patriarch Li reluctantly asked Li Xiaohan, "Can you please help Mr. Zhang to make peace? After all, they are all officials of the imperial court?"

Li Xiaohan frowned, "Mr. Zhang is a subordinate of King Ding, and Xuezheng is from a faction in the capital. They belong to different forces. More importantly, what Li Lanhua knows is the secret of Xuezheng's father, and Xuezheng is a member of a faction in the capital. Civil servants, whose reputation is the most important, will hand over their own affairs to colleagues from different factions. Mr. Zhang intervenes, and there is no room for change."

Not to mention colleagues from different factions, colleagues from the same faction are also absolutely covering themselves up.

"That's the truth."

Although no one here is an official, everyone is not stupid. This kind of secretiveness of their own father, let alone an official, they civilians will not let her fall into the ears of others.

"I'm going to look for academic affairs." Li Xinhe said with his eyebrows raised.

"Can the academic administration meet you?! Even if they meet you, how can they be afraid of you, a small official without official status?" Patriarch Li obeyed this son. He had obviously taken care of the secular affairs around him since he was a child, but he only had a smooth appearance. He was full of pride inside, fearing that others would not be able to defeat him.

"What your father said makes sense. It's easy for you to be a candidate for academic administration." The third uncle was also afraid that the most promising young man in the clan would be here, so he quickly persuaded him.

Li Xinhe pursed his lips, not sure whether he was convinced or just obeyed.

"How about hiding at home and never going out again?" Wu suddenly whispered, she would rather her daughter hide for the rest of her life than go back to that place where people eat people.

"When Li Lanhua hid from my carriage, the government servants knew about me. They were very anxious." Li Xiaohan frowned and said softly.

Wu looked desperate.

On the contrary, Li Xinhe understood a little bit of the meaning, "You mean, people who study politics will come here, and they are more anxious than us? Yes. They will definitely find Li Lanhua. The longer it takes, the more exposed he will be." The greater the risk. They are more anxious than we are."

"But they are officials and we are civilians. How can we beat the officials? Besides, Li Lanhua also signed a contract of betrayal." Patriarch Li didn't understand. The enemy is strong and we are weak. There is a great disparity in strength.

"It is precisely because they are officials and we are civilians that academic administration is more passive in this matter. People who wear shoes are always afraid of bare feet." Li Xiaohan said slowly, word by word, "Li Lanhua It is said that she is illiterate, Li Xianxi and Wu did not sign, and she was sold out."

Li Xiaohan stared at Li Lanhua.

Li Lanhua's eyes suddenly lit up, "Yes, I sell it for a small amount. I just went out to find a helper, and I was cheated."

Not too stupid.

"Brother Xinhe, if you sell a girl from a good family as a slave or a concubine, you are not guilty of buying someone else?" Li Xiaohan asked.

In modern times, those who buy abducted women and children will be punished. Li Xiaohan has reason to believe that ancient laws also exist.

Moreover, even if the law is useless, there is still a moral judgment. Don't those who study politics and serve as civil servants just want a reputation? At the end of the day, Wu and Li Lanhua were left to cry and make trouble. It seems that these two women now have the courage to risk their lives.

However, Li Xinhe's answer did not disappoint Li Xiaohan.

"The Law of the Wei Dynasty states that if a good citizen is sold briefly, if the owner of the nest and the buyer know about it, they will be guilty of the same crime as the criminal. The tooth and the bail will each be reduced by one level, and the price will be charged to the official position. The buyer will not sit still if he does not know, and the price will be charged. Return the Lord."

=== Chapter === 124

Early the next morning, before going out, I found myself in front of Li's house.

When they came back, they didn't expect that the clan would execute Li Cairong so quickly and decisively. Li Xiaohan and Li Xinhe were ready to return to Fucheng. After all, one of them still has serious things to do, and the other is still studying in the academy every day. If the elders of the clan can handle the affairs well, then naturally they cannot delay the young people's affairs.

Moreover, there is a government school waiting in the city.

"Do you want Lan Hua to go to Fucheng with you? If the government comes to find you and you can't hand over the person, will it be difficult for you?" Before going out, Wang said quietly behind the person's back.

"Mom, don't worry. I have old Uncle Zhong here. People who study government can't do anything to me. Besides, if Li Lanhua is like this, let her stay in Pingshan Village to recuperate." Li Xiaohan patted Wang's hand. He reassured.

Mrs. Wang is not vicious in wanting to send Li Lanhua back, but her daughter is even more innocent. I was dragged into this matter for no reason, and now I have to confront the school government.

Regarding academic affairs, although Wang didn't know what kind of official he was, I heard that he was in charge of Li Xin and these scholars. Xinhe has been promoted to a high-level official, and he is also under the control of academic affairs. He must be a very big official.

Thinking of this, Mrs. Wang scolded Li Cairong, Li Shengli and others in her heart. These people were extremely evil.

No matter how much he scolded or worried, Wang couldn't change Li Xiaohan's mind, so he had to remind him again and again, "Then you must be careful. You must take someone with you when you go out, and don't go to other places."

He quietly glanced around and said with a guilty conscience: "If you really can't do it, just forget it and don't take advantage of yourself. We don't owe Li Lanhua either. The people in the old house did that to our family."

Li Xiaohan smiled heartily and quietly said, "Mom, don't worry. I'll give it a try. If it doesn't work, I won't force it. I will never break my own because of Li Lanhua. I'm not the Buddha statue on the altar. I still need it." To save all sentient beings."

"Bah, bah, don't blame the gods and Buddhas. Xiaohan is just a child and doesn't know how to speak. Don't take it seriously, don't take it seriously." Wang quickly scolded her, but after Li Xiaohan said this, she finally felt relieved, "Then be careful, go up Come on, don't waste time."

"Yeah, mom, I'm leaving. Dad, I'm leaving." Li Xiaohan said, waving to everyone, and then gently pinched Li Xiaoshuang's fat cheeks, making Li Xiaoshuang make a pout, and then sat down Get on the carriage and leave Pingshan Village to return to Fucheng.

Li Xin and Li Xin were together. The two brothers and sisters did not need to observe the false etiquette, they could just sit in the carriage together.

"When the government student comes to find you, you send someone to inform me, and I will deal with it with you." Li Xinhe warned, and his voice turned serious again, "Don't think about leaving me, I know what you are doing thought."

"What will happen if I leave you?" Li Xiaohan asked pretending to be joking.

She really wanted to put aside Li Xinhe, all because of Li Xinhe's identity as a student, and confronting the academic administration, it was like a street vendor confronting the urban management. Don't be too professional, and don't make things too easy. .

"I will be very angry." Li Xin and Ban Ban said without hesitation.

Some people usually seem to have a good temper, but once you step on their bottom line, they may not make a fuss with you, but the person who made the mistake will be scared. Generally speaking, honest people lose their temper.

"I know, I won't leave you, I will send someone to inform you." Li Xiaohan said obediently.

Only then did Li Xinhe reveal a slight smile, but this smile quickly disappeared and turned into a hidden worry. Although a breakthrough has been found, Li Lanhua's matter is actually still very difficult to handle. There is a huge disparity in strength between the enemy and ourselves, and there are really not many things they can seize.

For a moment, the two brothers and sisters fell into deep thought.

The car drove quickly and soon arrived in Fucheng. Li Xinhe went back to Qingshan Academy, while Li Xiaohan went back to Gumen Alley first.

Soon, Zhang Fu came over.

"I heard something happened, what happened?" Zhang Fu asked.

Li Xiaohan is a very dedicated person. If he left in a hurry like yesterday, something important must have happened. Because Li Xiaohan had said before that he didn't like others checking her, Zhang Fu sent Uncle Zhong and the coachman to follow him, but he would not ask them about Li Xiaohan at all.

He chose to ask Li Xiaohan directly. I believe that Li Xiaohan who can tell will definitely tell him, and he doesn't have to ask if he can't.

"Something did happen." Li Xiaohan sighed and told Zhang Fu what he could.

Zhang Fu is so smart. He comes from a wealthy family. Although the Zhang family does not have such messy things, it does not mean that other families of the same class do not. It's nothing more than related to the privacy of the inner house.

"Do you need my help?" Zhang Fu asked with a frown.

"There is no need for academic administration. Your identity is too sensitive. It will not be easy to change your situation if you join." Li Xiaohan refused.

This is the truth, but Zhang Fu felt inexplicably proud and disappointed. Ah, the girl I like is so smart, she is indeed the best; but why do I feel so useless, am I not needed?

However, Zhang Fu was not disappointed soon, because Li Xiaohan soon needed him for something, "But there is one thing I need your help with."

"What's the matter?" Zhang Fu tried his best to suppress the corners of his mouth that wanted to turn up.

Li Xiaohan glanced at Zhang Fu in confusion, what's so happy about this? But if you look closely, Zhang Fu's face is very calm. Could it be that he saw it wrong?

"My grandfather's family has been excommunicated. I estimate that they will move away in the next few days, but about the pepper wine, I guarantee that they will occasionally hear a few things. Besides, I'm afraid there will be some The beloved is approaching them. After all, he is my father's biological father. I don't want my father to be in trouble. Can you help me find someone to watch them?"

"No problem." Zhang Fu said. Although Li Xiaohan said that her father was in trouble, it was not the case that her father was in trouble for her, and wine was one of Dingcheng's main sources of income now. In theory, he should get this thing done.

Moreover, Li Cairong is still a scholar after all. A fifteen-year-old scholar, in the eyes of uninformed people, still has great potential. If you encounter some blind opportunity, you will inevitably be in trouble.

Then kill this possibility.

Zhang Fu thought secretly in his heart. It is difficult for him to deal with the government, but if you want to say hello to the government, there is always something you can do for a scholar with obvious moral flaws who was not very good at the beginning and has been expelled from the clan. It has not reached the point of alarming the academic administration at all.

Having made up his mind, Zhang Fu did not say it directly. Instead, he turned to ask, "How many days have I transferred Qingbai to you recently?"

"Why? It's so dangerous to study government. Old Uncle Zhong is not enough?" Li Xiaohan asked, isn't Xuezheng a clean civil servant? How can he send out killers?

"Civil officials like them have a lot of secrets, and they might do some dirty tricks. I'll transfer Qingbai here for a few days, and I won't feel relieved until the matter is over." Zhang Fu explained in a tone of voice. firm.

"Okay." Li Xiaohan agreed.

As a result, Qingbai was temporarily transferred to Li Xiaohan.

"What do you mean by coming here?" Old Uncle Zhong asked slightly displeasedly when he saw Qingbai coming. A civil servant can only have a few well-behaved servants at most. If he can't handle it, he needs to send Qingbai.

"Old Uncle Zhong, I also obey the orders of the young master. Please understand him." Qingbai smiled bitterly and begged for mercy.

Old Uncle Zhong thought for a while, and after all, the second young master was the child he looked after. Despite the gentle and elegant appearance of the second young master on weekdays, only old men like Old Uncle Zhong knew that in the years when the general surrendered, the foundation was not stable, and there were quite a few people who thought they were noble, talking behind their backs.

Later, the general fought hard and achieved great success, and these people were jealous again, but they did not dare to gossip in front of the general, so they turned around and gossiped in front of the wife and the young master.

At that time, the second son was young, the general was away from home fighting all year round, and his wife was weak. He was a child, but he would not tell his wife when he was wronged, and would always think of his own way to fight back. In the end, it became like this, with layers of disguises covering itself, and no one except the people in the general's mansion believed it.

Now that Miss Li has finally caught the attention of the second young master and won his trust, Old Uncle Zhong will naturally not contradict the second young master for such trivial matters.

"Okay, I've just been busy lately. I haven't taught you Kung Fu for a long time. I just want to give you some extra homework."

Qingbai froze, but did not dare to have any opinions.

Back to Li Xiaohan, Qingbai came very quickly and was an acquaintance, so it had no impact on her life. The news from the School of Government was also very fast, and he was probably keeping an eye on her. In the afternoon of the same day, Li Xiaohan received a call from the Madam of the School of Government, and specifically asked her to go see her tomorrow afternoon - and found out that she needed to go there in the morning. The government office has no effort.

In the afternoon of the next day, Qingsong was sent to pick up Li Xinhe, and several people gathered together to discuss countermeasures.

"We checked the relevant information about Xuezheng before, but at that time we only paid attention to him personally and did not pay much attention to his family. Xuezheng was born in a rich farmer and could barely be regarded as an heir of farming and education. It is estimated that because there is no family support in politics, He waited until he was twenty-six years old and won the Jinshi Scholarship before getting married, and he married the daughter of Huang Juncheng, a bachelor of the Hanlin Academy." Zhang Fu said.

Sighing, Zhang Fu continued, "Bachelor Huang Juncheng also appreciates being able to marry his daughter to Xuezheng. In fact, these husband-in-laws are not only relatives, but their writing styles and political opinions are also Very similar."

As soon as Zhang Fu said these words, Li Xinhe and Li Xiaohan knew that he was the one who rigidly demanded that the emperor and his ministers should be married to fathers and sons.

Li Xiaohan felt disgusted in his heart: Why are all the literati under Grand Sun like this? Even if you are doing propaganda to stabilize your political position, you don't have to be such an extreme figure.

Zhang Fu glanced at Li Xiaohan and immediately understood her resentment, but it was useless to talk about it now. He continued, "As the eldest daughter of Bachelor Huang, Mrs. Xuezheng was quite deferential as a girl. After getting married, she followed the three obediences and the four virtues and rarely appeared in public. The only information we can get is that Mrs. Xuezheng seems to have some mysophobia and loves to be clean. "

"Mysophobia?" Li Xiaohan raised his eyebrows.

As a girl, you only have a reputation of being submissive. After you get married, under normal circumstances, you are most likely to be virtuous. But the news that can be spread is that she is mysophobic. I think Mrs. Xuezheng's mysophobia must be quite serious, and it has reached the point where she cannot hide it.

It's just that mysophobia is just a harmless personal habit, and it's of no use at all.

After getting a lot of news about whether it was useful or not, Li Xiaohan and Li Xinhe went to the appointment in a carriage.

The place where Mrs. Xuezheng made an appointment was not at the School of Government, nor a common place like a restaurant or teahouse, but a pavilion at the foot of the east mountain outside Fucheng.

The scenery of Dongshan is beautiful, and it is the time of autumn harvest, so it is refreshing and enjoyable to visit.

It's just that no one here has the intention to play this game.

"Miss Li knows that it is not appropriate for too many people to know what we are talking about today. How about each of us disperses the people who are following us and the two of us have a good chat." Mrs. Xuezheng was dressed quite simply. The whole person looks dignified and upright, which is consistent with Zhang Fu's life experience.

"Okay." Li Xiaohan motioned to Li Xinhe, Old Uncle Zhong and others to leave.

Although Li Xinhe was reluctant, what Mrs. Xuezheng said made sense, and it was really not appropriate for a man to discuss Li Lanhua's matter with Mrs. Xuezheng.

Old Uncle Zhong glanced at Madam Xuezheng and the maids around her, and then retreated with the others.

After everyone on both sides had retreated, Mrs. Xuezheng spoke slowly, "A few days ago, my servant was so stupid that he didn't recognize Miss Li and almost bumped into her rudely. Here, I first apologize to Miss Li. "

After saying this, Mrs. Xuezheng took out a plain handkerchief from her sleeves and began to wipe her hands. "It's just that Lanhua is indeed a slave bought by my family. This is evidenced by a registered deed of sale, Miss Li." We understand how caring we are for our sisters for a while. But that incident was also misled by the evil slave, who mistook Lanhua for stealing a family heirloom and resorted to family methods for a while. Now it has been found out. I will never wrong Orchid again. Please ask Miss Li to send Orchid back."

Look, they didn't admit that she was abused by the old man at all. It was just that Lanhua stole the property and used family methods. Speaking of which, there is no way to be picky.

"Don't worry, Miss Li. After Lanhua comes back, in order to make up for Lanhua's grievance this time, we will promote her to a first-class maid."

This means that in the future, Li Lanhua will be given more glory and wealth. Isn't that what Li Lanhua was coveting at the beginning? Just satisfy her. Return the person quickly.

Li Xiaohan looked at Mrs. Xuezheng with a half-smile, "What if I say no?"

Mrs. Xuezheng seemed to be irritated by what Li Xiaohan said. After a pause, she actually threw away the handkerchief and took out another one.

At this time, Li Xiaohan noticed that Mrs. Xuezheng's hands had neither decorations such as impatiens nails nor any jewelry. The hands even looked a little thin and cracked. It is possible that Mrs. Xuezheng washed her hands frequently and didn't even have time. Apply hand ointment, otherwise, as a noble lady, her hands would never look like this. It seems that Mrs. Xuezheng's mysophobia is indeed very serious.

"I heard that Miss Li is fifteen this year and is about to get haircut. What we women rely on in life is to meet a good man. At this time, Miss Li insists on meddling in this nosy matter, has she never? Have you ever thought about yourself?"

Mrs. Xuezheng kept wiping her hands, but smiled and persuaded Li Xiaohan, "Miss Li is kind-hearted, but she should think more about herself. If a woman's reputation is ruined, her life will be ruined. You What good will it do to you to take care of this matter? Besides, Miss Li now thinks this is a very serious matter. In fact, it is because you have seen less. To put it bluntly, Lanhua is just a useless person to the old man. A concubine with no status, if Miss Li marries into a wealthy family in the future, she will get used to this kind of thing after seeing it too many times."

"Everyone has his own destiny, and everyone is responsible for his own destiny. Now that I have said it, our family is just a runaway slave who stole something. What will the nosy Miss Li do? For someone who is not close to us, Are you going to risk your life for your cousin? Why bother."

"Not a concubine, nor a slave, my cousin was sold out." Li Xiaohan finally spoke out, but his words were extremely firm.

"When I come to study political science, I naturally know that the laws of Wei Dynasty have provisions for selling Li Lanhua. Now, Li Cairong, who sells Li Lanhua, has been expelled from the clan. I, the Li clan, do not recognize such violations. Disciples of the law. If we follow the government and insist on letting Lanhua go back, then we will have no choice but to go to court."

Li Xiaohan didn't accept Mrs. Xuezheng's theory about wives and concubines in the back house at all, and pointed directly at Xuezheng.

Sure enough, Mrs. Xuezheng's face was shocked. She could not have imagined that in just two days, the Li family had already exterminated Li Cairong. Isn't it true that they are all weak-minded, and the only one who passed the examination was the Jinkecai?

"I heard that Xuezheng has a reputation for being pure and clear. He shouldn't force the girls who have been sold in our good people's homes to be slaves, right? Of course, Xuezheng is a high-ranking official, and we are just common people. You can force a cow to drink water. But we are not people who live in humiliation. We only need one life if the fish is dead and the net is broken. We are just asking for justice from the mouth of the world."

Madam Xuezheng's face became extremely angry, she was threatening them.

What's more, this is in Dingcheng, and that is Miss Bai Wax Li's cousin. She must have been sold out. Can she prove her character with death without even looking at it? !

If you really risk your life, others will only think that the government uses its power to force people, and would rather force people to death than let a good girl who was sold out be free. For civil servants who value reputation such as academic administration, this is to give political opponents a handle.

In this public opinion stand, as long as Li Xiaohan is firm enough, academic politics will be completely at a disadvantage.

Li Xiaohan smiled and seemed to acknowledge the meaning of the threat, "Please Madam Xuezheng, please pass these words to Master Xuezheng verbatim. I believe Lord Xuezheng will know the choice."

After saying that, he stood up and prepared to leave. In this dialogue, the two sides had different positions, different opinions, and different purposes. It was impossible to reach any consensus at all, and it was useless to talk anymore.

But at the end, Li Xiaohan suddenly said to Mrs. Xuezheng, "Madam has always advised me to marry for the sake of reputation. But, madam, after getting married, you will be very dirty."

That's why in this unconditional pavilion, I kept wiping my hands. Therefore, even a person who wants to be upright and virtuous cannot control his mysophobia until this habit cannot cover up or even overshadow it. regained his former reputation for obedience.

Falling into the mud, there is no way to escape, you can only dance with the stench.

At this moment, Li Xiaohan had no dislike for Mrs. Xuezheng, and even felt deep pity. This pity made her speed up the conversation - this conversation was not only for her, but also for Mrs. Xuezheng. , is a kind of torture.

After leaving the Caoting, Li Xinhe and others hurriedly came up to us, "How was the talk?"

"We'll talk about it when we get back." Li Xiaohan returned, "I want to ride a horse."

When I arrived, I was riding a carriage. Now, Li Xiaohan said he wanted to ride a horse, so Qingzhu's horse was given to Li Xiaohan, and Qingzhu just went to ride the carriage.

The horse's hooves were galloping, and Li Xiaohan rode faster and faster. The autumn wind of September was blowing, and there was even a feeling of pain in the face, but Li Xiaohan didn't care. This was the price of freedom and running.

She is willing to pay this price and bear this price.

The world may seem sweet to women, but it has too many pitfalls. If she doesn't want to fall into the position of a scholar's wife, she must pay more, stand taller, and become stronger.

Strong enough to be free and control your own destiny.

=== Chapter === 125

Returning to Gumen Alley, he broke out in a thin sweat. Li Xiaohan washed his hands quickly, and the negative emotional influence from Mrs. Xuezheng finally disappeared.

Li Xinhe, who was in the carriage behind, also returned. Seeing Li Xiaohan become this energetic and energetic person again, everyone felt relieved.

And Zhang Fu had already been waiting aside.

"Let me talk about the progress this time. Things are basically developing as we expected. Mrs. Xuezheng should take my words with her." Li Xiaohan said first, "Xuezheng's father must have had this problem for a long time. Xuezheng is probably a particularly hypocritical person. His father's affairs are left to his wife to handle. Mrs. Xuezheng's mysophobia is probably the result of dealing with such matters."

"When she was talking about Li Lanhua, she first used a handkerchief to wipe her hands desperately, and then when she turned to persuade me, she used another handkerchief. I guessed that she must be sick in her heart. Her hands were dirty, so she wiped them desperately. I guess she might have broken the skin on her hands when she got home."

"What she said was basically to convey the idea of the academic administration. She has no decision-making power. She will wait for the reply from the academic administration."

Previously, a group of people had been discussing academic wives for a long time, especially this mysophobic lady, and couldn't figure out what was going on with this official lady.

It turned out to be so.

For a moment, the two men here couldn't help but feel a little embarrassed - although they also despised this kind of person, they felt so intuitively that they were both men, and they couldn't help but feel a little guilty.

Among them, Li Xinhe was especially angry. This humble gentleman was first filled with disgust for the entire school government because of what happened to his own clan sister. Now he discovered that there was more than one victim in the school government, and the perpetrators were all men. Li Xinhe also It is hatred and unknown embarrassment.

Zhang Fu's face was also slightly stagnant, but he quickly recovered and understood the meaning of the lingering depression and anger on Li Xiaohan's face just now when he came in. He sneered and said, "Xue Zheng and his father, in fact... They are a type of people who rely on bullying the weak to show their false strength. Now that you have shown your strength, they will have some scruples, and soon the Academic Council will come to find you. In fact, they are all losers. A truly strong man has nothing to fear."

Zhang Fu's expression seemed to recall some bad experiences.

Li Xiaohan looked at Zhang Fu in surprise, as if he didn't recognize this person.

"Why do you look at me like this? Am I wrong?"

"No, you are right, I even doubt that I heard it wrong."

Zhang Fu was a little shocked, and then he recalled with some memories, "When I was young, my father was often not at home, and he was a little jealous of the people in our family who talked and did little things in front of me."

Li Xinhe and Li Xiaohan didn't expect Zhang Fu to have such an experience. After all, Zhang Fu looked like a noble man who grew up in fine clothes and fine food. But it makes sense when you think about it. No matter where the society is, it is made up of people. Since everyone It's a human being, that's actually the same thing.

Now that he has said it, Zhang Fu couldn't help but say a little more, "Actually, the difference between men and women is actually only a physical difference, not a mental difference. It's just that in the world, many men are in power, many Women do not get opportunities, so this situation is formed. Given a chance, maybe Xuezheng's wife is smarter than Xuezheng, at least Xuezheng's wife is more human than Xuezheng. When the grandson chooses a person, in order to consolidate his rule from a civil and political point of view, it is inevitable that It will emphasize the power of kings, fathers and husbands, which may not be a good thing in the long run."

This topic seemed a bit heavy and broad, and for a while, the three of them fell into silence.

Early the next morning, Li Xiaohan was putting the finishing touches on the white wax next to the government office. As we had previously announced that today was the last day, there were a little more people coming. In fact, many of the questions had been asked before. The farmers were worried, so they asked them again, and Li Xiaohan patiently answered them one by one.

Suddenly, the expression of old Uncle Zhong, who had been standing next to Li Xiaohan, suddenly changed. He held the handle of the knife and began to be on guard.

Li Xiaohan suddenly realized something from Old Uncle Zhong's reaction. He followed Old Uncle Zhong's gaze and saw outside the crowd a man about forty years old dressed like a scholar, with a man beside him. The follower looked this way from a distance.

Probably this is academic politics.

Li Xiaohan straightened up and looked at him without any sign of weakness.

Seeing Li Xiaohan looking over, Xuezheng seemed to be talking to the entourage behind him, and then turned to look over again. Li Xiaohan's brows furrowed even more tightly.

"Miss Li, do you need me to come over?"

"No need for the moment, let's see what he wants to do." Li Xiaohan said, if the enemy doesn't move, I won't move.

Both sides were in a stalemate.

After a while, a questioning voice suddenly came in and said, "Miss Li, won't you come over tomorrow? Can our white waxworm just wait until next spring?"

It was a familiar old farmer. In spring, this old farmer was lucky enough to find a white wax tree with insect eggs in the mountains, and then carefully transplanted it to his yard. Since the beginning of this year, he has been studying with Li Xiaohan seriously and carefully. He has successfully cultivated branch seedlings and harvested the white wax on the trees. He thinks that next year and the year after, their family will be able to cultivate white wax insects. Slowly grow. However, despite this, the old farmer still felt unsure knowing that Li Xiaohan was not coming.

Seeing the worried look on the old farmer's face, Li Xiaohan put aside his studies and politics for the time being, and answered the old farmer patiently, "Yes, this year's white wax harvest has been completed, and we will come back next spring. Although I am no longer in the day. The day is here, but if you encounter other problems, you can also come here, the official brother here will record it, and I will choose a day to answer it if necessary."

"That's good, that's good. Excuse me, Miss Li." Hearing that he could still ask the official to take the lead, the old farmer felt relieved and thanked him quickly, "Thank you, Miss Li."

"You're welcome." Li Xiaohan replied with a smile.

When the surrounding farmers heard the conversation between the old farmer and Li Xiaohan, they also commented, "That's great. I can also send a message to Miss Li. I thought I would never see Miss Li again, and I was really afraid of something happening to me." , I always feel unsafe in my heart."

"No, that's what I thought too. Now that I'm better, I can sleep peacefully."

"That's right."

Li Xiaohan couldn't help but comfort him again. The policemen from the nearby government also promised to bring everyone's messages to Li Xiaohan on time, and the crowd around him gradually dispersed.

When Li Xiaohan finished this round of work and raised his head again, Xuezheng had disappeared.

"Old Uncle Zhong, when did this man leave?"

"When a bunch of people surround you." Old Uncle Zhong replied nonchalantly.

Coward.

"Oh." Li Xiaohan thought for a while, and Xuezheng should contact him again soon.

Sure enough, in the afternoon, the steward of the government school came over and brought a document, asking for an explanation that Li Lanhua was sold to the government school by his tribe. The people who studied the government did not know it, and Li Lanhua's injuries were because he was falsely accused by the evil servant. It was caused by family law. Now it has been found out and the evil servant has been dealt with. For Li Lanhua's injury, the school government also paid ten taels of silver for the treatment.

After requiring Li Xiaohan, Patriarch Li, and Li Lanhua to sign, the school government will restore Li Lanhua's good status.

Li Lanhua is the person involved, and Patriarch Li is the representative of the Li family. Li Xiaohan's signature is probably due to concerns about Li Xiaohan's influence.

Pooh. He really refused to leave any clue, which is hypocritical and disgusting.

Li Xiaohan kept a straight face and only said, "In the afternoon, Shen Shi brought Li Lanhua's body deed in exchange."

It was enough for Shen Shi to come back to Pingshan Village as soon as possible. Li Lanhua's destiny was that she didn't want to stay with the school government for a day longer.

After saying that, he kept a straight face and closed the door of his house without a sound, which only made the butler's face turn green with anger.

At Shen Shi, the green-faced butler came to Gumen Alley, and the two parties exchanged documents with dead faces. At this point, it finally came to an end.

"Let me take a look." Li Xinhe checked again and again without feeling reassured, and finally breathed a sigh of relief after confirming that there was no problem.

"When I go back tomorrow, I will take it back to Lanhua." Li Xiaohan said. She was finished with her business in Fucheng and no longer needed to stay in Fucheng. Thinking about it, starting from March this year, she stayed in Fucheng for almost half a year, and now she can finally go back.

Zhang Fu thought for a long time but couldn't think of a way to retain Li Xiaohan. Li Xiaohan's parents and family were all in Pingshan Village, so he could only say, "Let old Uncle Zhong follow you back to Pingshan Village."

"Do you still need to follow me? I'm afraid that old Uncle Zhong won't get used to it." Li Xiaohan said. When she returned to Pingshan Village, she was all her own, so she should be safe.

"I'm afraid of anything unexpected, and if you need to go to and from Fucheng, you're also afraid of danger. I asked old Uncle Zhong, and he doesn't care whether it's in Fucheng or Pingshan Village." Zhang Fu explained.

"Okay then." Li Xiaohan thought about it. Last time, Uncle Zhong and his father went to the wine shop to drink.

Early the next morning, Li Xiaohan returned to Pingshan Village packed with small bags - she originally wanted to streamline her luggage, since the Gumen Alley was here anyway, so it was not impossible to come up, but Zhang Fu brought a lot of gifts. , from Li Xiandong to Li Xiaoshuang, there is no shortage of food and clothing. Of course, the most is Li Xiaohan's.

"Miss Li has been busy for several months and has not collected any money. On behalf of the people in Dingcheng, I would like to thank Miss Li for her kindness. Now these are my own gifts to Miss Li and my uncle and aunt. On behalf of To express my regards and gratitude to Miss Li and your family, please make sure Miss Li brings it with you." Zhang Fu said sincerely.

Li Xiaohan thought about it and realized that what was sent was indeed something his family could use, so he accepted it.

Early the next morning, Li Xiaohan set off early. When he returned to Pingshan Village, it was still late. Li Xiandong and Wang were already waiting at the door, as well as Li Lanhua, who was waiting eagerly.

"Dad, Mom, what's in the carriage is a souvenir from Mr. Zhang to our family. You and Mom should put it away." Li Xiaohan jumped off the horse, "Lanhua, come with me."

Knowing what Li Lanhua was waiting for, Li Xiaohan walked into the backyard hall without delay. Guessing what they were going to say, Li Xiandong and Wang moved their things first, and even old Uncle Zhong was considerate and made room for the two of them.

"Now, let's see if it's this." Li Xiaohan asked for an envelope from his arms and handed it to Li Lanhua.

Li Lanhua immediately grabbed it, opened it with trembling hands for a long time, and stared at it for a long time. Tears gradually dripped down bit by bit, and then she started to cry loudly while tugging at the corner of Li Xiaohan's clothes.

"Yes, that's right, that's it. Sister Xiaohan, thank you."

"Yes, yes, that's fine." Li Xiaohan replied, thought for a moment, and comforted, "Now you have returned to being a good citizen. In a few years, things will fade away and pass. Live a good life."

"Well, well..." Li Lanhua cried until she hiccupped.

Li Xiaohan actually understood it very well. It didn't matter if he cried a little... he just wanted to let go of her clothes.

Sigh... forget it, just be a pillar, Li Xiaohan casually handed over a handkerchief.

"Sister Xiaohan, I'm sorry, I lied to you about something." Li Lanhua took the handkerchief, wiped her nose and tears, and said.

=== Chapter === 126

Li Lanhua did not dare to raise her head to look at Li Xiaohan. She only pulled the corner of Li Xiaohan's clothes hard, sobbing and whispering guiltily, "I didn't escape, I was released by the student government..."

"I've probably guessed it. If you let go of my clothes first, they'll break if you try harder." Li Xiaohan said helplessly. He didn't need to pull her so hard if he felt guilty.

"I...ah, did you guess it?" Li Lanhua couldn't react, and raised her head suddenly, her face full of tears and snot bubbles, with a look of disbelief.

"Let go of my clothes first, they are about to fall off." Li Xiaohan said helplessly again.

Li Lanhua uneasily loosened her clothes, and Li Xiaohan was finally able to escape.

"Xiao...Sister Xiaohan, what did you...guess?"

"What you said is either true or false. In order to win our trust, it may be 90% true and 10% false. But there is one point where it is most likely false. You said you bribed the backyard gatekeeper, but she escaped unprepared. "

Li Xiaohan said with a smile, "Although I have never been to the School of Government, I can guess that all high-end courtyards must be heavily guarded. Your identity is so sensitive, and the School of Government is for its own reputation. For the sake of safety, the guards must be even tighter, how could one bribe a woman so easily to escape."

"...You, you guessed it, why did you save me?" Li Lanhua said with trembling and confusion.

"What if I guess wrong?"

In case I guess wrong, you may be the flower fertilizer in the garden behind the government, a floating corpse in the pond and well, or a missing person who can never be found after getting lost.

"Uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuu" Li Lanhua seemed to be crying and laughing at the same time. She may have recalled something, and her words were trembling, "I'm sorry, Miss Xiaohan, you are right, there is no way I can escape. That one My mother-in-law took my money and reported me backhandedly. That old pervert was so excited. He kept saying that he still had the energy to escape and the thought to escape, but it seemed it wasn't enough. Sister Xiaohan, I'm so scared. Ah, I'm so scared, I keep begging for mercy, I...I told you that I am your sister, and you know big shots."

Speaking of this, Li Lanhua looked up at Li Xiaohan in fear. Seeing that Li Xiaohan just frowned slightly, she dared to continue, "But it was useless. Later, I was thrown into the woodshed and felt that I was about to die. I wanted to die. It would be over once and for all. But when I didn't die, the old pervert gave me some medicine and waited for a few days before asking me if I wanted to live."

"I didn't die, and I didn't dare to die. The old pervert asked me to put on a show and sent me back. He said that as long as I got the secret recipe of pepper wine, I would be restored to good status." At this point , Li Lanhua's voice became lower and lower, and suddenly she continued to defend, "But I didn't give them the news about the pepper wine. I didn't tell them anything, I just pulled Li Cairong down. I didn't have any."

"Of course you didn't, otherwise what do you think you would do if you stayed in the village? We are all acquaintances, and your thoughts and actions cannot be hidden from everyone's eyes." Li Xiaohan said.

So it's both protection and surveillance.

"That's great, I don't have it. Everyone knows that I don't have it." Li Lanhua laughed and burst into tears. She never wants to leave Pingshan Village and go to the outside world. "Sister Xiaohan, have I brought you trouble?"

"We have too many troubles. One more person who studies politics is not much. He dare not come openly. If this is the idea of studying the government, it will be difficult for you to leave the village. In the village, the government does not dare to send people Come on, if you don't pay attention when you leave the city, you may be picked up by the government." Li Xiaohan advised.

"I will not leave the village, and I will never leave the village again. I will stay in the village and will not go anywhere." Li Lanhua said firmly that now only Pingshan Village can make him feel safe. She didn't want to go anywhere.

"Don't do this. This matter will fade away in a few years. You are still young and you still have a lot of life in the future." Li Xiaohan advised.

Li Lanhua raised her head and glanced at Li Xiaohan. Sister Xiaohan was kind and smart, but she couldn't forget it.

"Except for this, everything else is true." Li Lanhua said quietly. It was true that she was deceived by Li Cairong, it was true that she wanted to be an aunt, and her first encounter in studying government was true. Yes, those people who can't bear to die are also real...

"Your deed of betrayal has been taken back, and you will still be a good citizen from now on. Don't think about studying government anymore. It will be over in a few years." Li Xiaohan said.

The magic of time is the most powerful way to eliminate all traces.

"Sister Xiaohan, is it just like this? Is this how the old pervert is going to be?" Li Lanhua said very slowly, but she vaguely heard the sound of her molars rattling.

"Is this what you think about yourself?"

"Yes." Li Lanhua nodded lightly, "My mother told me that it would be great if I could get my deed of betrayal back. We are civilians, and if someone imitates the government and crushes me to death, it would be like crushing an ant to death."

"Your mother is right. To the government, we are like ants. We can be easily crushed to death, and the other party doesn't care. Therefore, we must save our own lives first and don't act rashly. , it's only possible if you have destiny."

"When it comes to revenge, it's best not to be too late. Like Li Cairong, you can do it very well." Li Xiaohan said.

It's strange that the world tells women to be generous, patient and tolerant, but Li Xiaohan thinks instead, why should you not pay back a penny a hundred times when you are hurt?

"It's just that you don't have the power now. If you act blindly, you can only end up with yourself and others. With this kind of hatred, what you should do is to continue to strengthen yourself and quietly wait for the opportunity to strike a fatal blow. Since you can't do it even if it's not too late, then you can do it even if it's not too late in ten years."

"Ten years is never too late, ten years is never too late." Li Lanhua murmured, slowly gaining strength, as if she had a breath of energy again.

Some people's hate lasts longer than love.

But it doesn't matter, as long as you live, everything is hope and opportunity.

"Okay, you go back with the deed. I guess your mother is waiting impatiently." He said why Li Lanhua was the only one here. It turned out that he was leaving her mother to say this, "I just came back from Fucheng. , also needs to be repaired."

"Then...then I'm going back, Sister Xiaohan." Li Lanhua turned back three times at a time, reluctant to leave.

"Let's go, let's go." Li Xiaohan waved.

After Li Lanhua left, Li Xiaohan immediately walked out, "Old Uncle Zhong, go back right away. Li Lanhua said that she was allowed to come back to steal the secret recipe of pepper wine by studying the government. The studying government is eyeing us and let him Watch out for scented candles and southern deals."

Old Uncle Zhong looked stern, this matter could be big or small, but just because of this, Old Uncle Zhong hesitated, "Miss Li, I left, what about you?"

Li Xiaohan is the real owner.

"It doesn't matter. If the academic administration wants to attack me openly, there will be more opportunities in the city. In Pingshan Village, they are all my tribe, and they don't dare to force me. Look at the tricks they are playing secretly now. I know it's just a trial right now, or you still haven't confirmed your relationship with me, or you have too many taboos. So I'm safe now. If you're worried, just go and come back as soon as possible." Li Xiaohan explained.

Old Uncle Zhong thought it made sense. These days, he also understood that in terms of force, Miss Li could only escape, but in terms of intelligence, Miss Li could beat him ten times. Since Miss Li said so, he would just do it.

"Okay, Miss Li, I'm going back now. Be careful and don't go out during this period. I'll be back soon." Old Uncle Zhong warned.

As long as Li Xiaohan is in the village, it is safe. He had gone for a walk before. This man from Pingshan Village was not an ordinary village man. He dared to do it with everyone. Unless a hundred-day team was sent, it would be impossible to easily snatch people away from Pingshan Village.

"Okay. Don't worry, old Uncle Zhong, I will stay at home and not go anywhere." Li Xiaohan promised, she was a person who cherished her life.

Nowadays, Li Xiaohan's family is no longer the most remote family in the village. In addition to Li Gui's family next to it, there are two more families building houses next to them, and they are both brewing families. They can't be more at ease - Li Shengli is smart. , Others are not stupid either. Before, they just had no money and were waiting. Now these families are making wine in the winery and growing peppers at home. But they don't have enough money to build separate houses. As a result, the area around Li Xiandong's home has become visibly more popular. It is said that the land in this area is firmly in the hands of Patriarch Li, so don't even think about it if you are not a trustworthy family.

"Okay." Old Uncle Zhong was relieved and without delay, he immediately took the horse and galloped to Fucheng to report the news.

When Mrs. Wang saw that Li Xiaohan had finally finished talking to the people, she poked her head in and asked, "Has everything been dealt with? Is Lao Zhong back?"

"It's done. I left something behind. Old Uncle Zhong will go back and he will come back. Mother, please arrange a room for Old Uncle Zhong." Li Xiaohan said.

"Oh, then let's let Lao Zhong live in the front yard." Ms. Wang didn't ask much about what was going on. It's just that Lao Zhong is such a big man, so she had to live in the front yard. Then the topic turned to other places, "You Why did you bring so many things back? How much did you spend? How many times have I told you, the money needs to be saved, don't buy things for me and your father, we are in the village all day and we won't need it at all."

"I didn't buy this, it was given by Mr. Zhang."

"It's a gift. How expensive is it? How can we give it as a gift?" Wang turned worried and now she gradually understood that the principle of communication is to come and go. But with so many good things, how could their family afford such a gift?

"No need to reply. Mr. Zhang said, this is the reward for my busy work during this period." Li Xiaohan could tell at a glance what her mother was worried about and immediately blocked the gap. Just kidding, asking her mother to return the favor would make her mother die of grief, as she would have to ask her in the end.

"It's a reward. Then there's no need to reciprocate the gift." Sure enough, when she heard it was a reward, Mrs. Wang immediately laughed. Her daughter had been busy for so long, so she deserved the reward. "Mr. Zhang is so attentive. I Look, there are a lot of silk fabrics inside, they are very beautiful and suitable for you. It happens that you are getting haircut at the end of the year, so it is best not to look past the new clothes you chose."

"Okay, Mom, please help me make it." She also likes the new clothes.

"What nonsense are you talking about? Hairstyles are for showing off your own craftsmanship. How can you help me make them for you? You must have made them yourself." Wang said with an angry smile.

"I...I made it myself. Mom, have I ever made clothes?" Li Xiaohan asked himself. After he awakened his memory, it seemed that the clothes were all made by Wang. Bar.

"Of course you have done it. I taught you how to make cotton-padded clothes. Although you are not very good at it, you can make it if you take the time to practice."

In the old days, when she was poor, Wang could occasionally make clothes from coarse cotton cloth woven using local methods. They could only be considered wearable, but there were no more patterns.

However, after the separation of the family, the Wang family can be said to have money and leisure, and they are thinking better and better. Besides, Li Xiaohan has been very busy, so Wang was very happy to help Li Xiaohan make clothes.

However, things are different now. These are hair-length clothes. When the time comes, the relatives and aunts who come to congratulate her will look at Li Xiaohan's clothes and evaluate her craftsmanship, so there can be no delay.

Mrs. Wang had already estimated the days before her haircut. If she picked up the basics and slowly polished the clothes, she would be able to do it.

Wang thinks it can be done, but Li Xiaohan doesn't think so. Not to mention that her previous foundation was just sewing a thread. According to her understanding of herself, she has never been very successful with her craftsmanship.

"Mom, why don't you go to Fucheng and buy a good-looking one."

"No. The clothes you wear must be made by yourself. No matter how capable you are, you can do it." Wang said resolutely, full of confidence in Li Xiaohan.

"I...I'll give it a try." Li Xiaohan twitched the corner of his mouth with difficulty.

=== Chapter === 127

Although we are talking about making clothes, there is no need to rush into this short period of time. After all, Li Xiaohan had just returned from Fucheng, and she had to tidy up her own room and take a rest.

"I have washed and dried the mats and quilts for you. They are the other things you brought back from Fucheng. Where do you put them?"

Li Xiaohan entered her room. During the days when she was not at home, Mrs. Wang maintained her room very carefully. There was no trace of mess. There was still a faint scent of mugwort in the whole room, and the quilt on the bed was neatly folded. Together, two suitcases and a desk were added to the back.

"Seeing that you are writing more and more, your father went to the furniture store in Fucheng and bought you a desk. People say that this kind of desk is specially used for scholars and is suitable for you." Wang said.

"Thank you, Mom and Dad. It's really useful." Li Xiaohan said with a smile.

"Just use them together." Mrs. Wang was even more happy, "I'll put these new fabrics in the suitcase for you. Whichever one you like, we will use that one." Mrs. Wang likes to put them in her daughter's room. The suitcase is full.

"Mom, how can I use so much? Bring some to Xiaoshuang." Li Xiaohan said.

"I left a piece of decent fabric for her. She is a little person and can usually wear fine cotton. Your father and I have bought some for her. You earned these by yourself, and you keep them. , use it slowly in the future."

"No, mother, just give me these pink, green and yellow. Why don't you bring over this soapy brown and rich-patterned silk to me? It's for you and dad." Li Xiaohan didn't know whether to laugh or cry.

"Silly, that's silk and satin. Silk and satin are so expensive. If you don't wear them now, you can use them as money in the future. Besides, when your father and I are at home, there is no need to wear such luxurious fabrics. It's a waste. You keep it. Keep it, I will use it later." Wang felt a little sad in her heart.

I'm fifteen, I'm old enough to see each other, but I won't be able to stay for a few more years. After you get married, you are not allowed to give any greetings to your parents-in-law or elders.

From a little dumpling to what she is now, Wang's heart is half proud and half sad. Li Xiaohan doesn't know what her mother is thinking, but she is familiar with dealing with her mother.

"Mom, since you asked me to make hair-length clothes, shouldn't you and dad also make a set? Otherwise, on that day, I will wear satin and you and dad will wear cotton clothes. How will others see me? I mean. I don't earn much, so I can't even buy satin clothes for my family. Or maybe I'm not filial and only care about what I wear, while my parents still wear common clothes."

"Nonsense, no one from far away knows that you are the most capable and filial person." Wang scolded.

"Since mother said so, it is even more important to take this silk back. Now we are not a family that cannot afford silk clothes. Mother, you have earned enough money to buy clothes. Why do you still need to buy clothes here?" Local frugality should be implemented according to the needs of the population." Wang and Li Xiandong can both make money, but they are reluctant to spend it on themselves.

"Then I will have sex with your father?" Wang said hesitantly, and she was convinced.

"Do it." Li Xiaohan simply responded.

"Sure." Mrs. Wang gritted her teeth, "But I will do what your father and I do. You still have to make your own set. Come to me quickly and start by cutting cloth."

"Mother, mother, wait for me to take a break, take a break before doing it. I came back from Fucheng, but I'm too tired." Li Xiaohan used the dragging technique, "What did Aunt He do today? I want to Take a sip of the fresh and sweet fish ball soup."

"You want to drink fish soup? I'll ask Aunt He to make it now." Wang's attention was diverted as expected. There is no shortage of fish, chicken, duck, etc. at home, but it will take some time to make fish ball soup. Now You have to start killing fish.

When the fish ball soup was ready and it was time for lunch, old Uncle Zhong came back, but unexpectedly, Zhang Fu also came.

"Why are you here? Did something big happen?" Li Xiaohan asked worriedly. Just send a message. Old Uncle Zhong should be able to deliver the message. Why did Zhang Fu come in person?

"I heard what Old Uncle Zhong said. I think this matter is big or small. I should confirm it with you in person before I can rest assured." Zhang Fu said seriously.

"No, the young master asked a lot of questions at that time, and I didn't even know. I might as well just come here by myself." Old Uncle Zhong said apologetically. He thought it was a simple matter of delivering a message, but unexpectedly, the young master The boy actually had so many questions, which really stumped him.

No, old Uncle Zhong, this is actually a simple matter of passing a message.

"Since we're here, let's have dinner together first. This matter won't be urgent for a while." Li Xiaohan said.

"Okay." He turned around and said to Wang and Li Xiandong with a bit of apology and a bit of embarrassment, "Uncle and aunt, I'm here uninvited, sorry to bother you."

There is a slight distance between Li Xiandong and Wang that is acceptable in the natural intimacy.

"Don't bother, don't bother." Wang and Li Xiandong said in unison, and now they are getting used to it.

So, everyone came to the table together. Because Li Xiaohan came back today, the Li family's lunch was particularly sumptuous, including sweet fish ball soup, chestnut braised native chicken, garlic fried pork ribs, steamed soy sauce pork, mushrooms and cabbage...

The Li family's dietary standard, under the consistent theoretical guidance of Li Xiaohan, is very good. Even Li Xiaoshuang, who had just started eating complementary foods, grabbed a sliced fish ball with her chubby hands and ate it all over her face. Everyone ignored her and let her, a little person, happily chew with her newly emerged front teeth.

After lunch, the Li family tacitly left space for Li Xiaohan and Zhang Fu to talk about business.

Zhang Fu coughed lightly and calmed down, "Don't worry about Xiangxuan. We had strict control before. Patchouli is still following the Renhetang route. Li Xuezheng and the others can't think of it."

"Businessmen on the south side of the Yangtze River don't have to worry. These businessmen are the best at speculating. That's why they may waver before the overall situation is determined, but they won't go all the way."

The more Li Xiaohan listened, the more he nodded in agreement, yes, that's right, that's it.

In this case, why did Zhang Fu come over in person?

Zhang Fu swallowed nervously and tried to remain objective, "On your side, although we have put down the cover-up, Pingshan Village is far away from the capital after all, and there is no information. If something happens, I'm afraid it will be Rescue fails. Otherwise, you and your uncle and aunt move to the city to live?"

"It was discovered that there was a conspiracy in the academic administration? No, if he found out that it was me, he should have targeted me directly. Why use orchids to scare the snake and prepare us?" Li Xiaohan asked strangely, why does Zhang Fu feel this way? , unexpectedly serious look?

"Ahem... No, I guess it's what you said. He just wanted to test it out." Zhang Fu was a little embarrassed. "But, now that he has been alarmed, it's better to move back to Fucheng for safety just in case."

"Does he have a private army? Maybe he will use force openly?" Li Xiaohan was puzzled. Otherwise, why would he be so jealous of a civil servant?

"No. As a civil servant, he can only support a few servants at most, but the number is limited. In Dingcheng, it is impossible for him to rely on force. He originally came to promote the status of the grandson in civil affairs."

Li Xiaohan was relieved. She thought she had made a mistake. "In that case, he shouldn't dare to touch me openly. I am safe in the village. Besides, there is old Uncle Zhong here, so I'm not afraid. Go to Fucheng." It's inconvenient, so I'll stay in Pingshan Village."

Li Xiaohan refused.

Just kidding, her foundation is all in Pingshan Village. The eucommia ulmoides in her mountains can be used to trial the production of eucommia gum; she has been growing Panax notoginseng for three years, and now the first batch is in its third year; the last time Mrs. Xuezheng gave her She had a great realization. She thought of many ways to become stronger. Now she had some inspiration and needed practical experiments. She went to Fucheng and found Pingshan Village conveniently - there was no manpower and no No tools.

In Pingshan Village, Li Xiandong and Wang are her most natural helpers. Although Old Uncle Zhong will protect her, he is always in the front yard. Aunt He usually has a lot of eyes with Li Xiaoshuang in the front yard and in the backyard. Aunt He immediately got out of the way.

Therefore, it is impossible for her to move to Fucheng. Pingshan Village is the foundation where she has always stood.

Li Xiaohan's tone was gentle, but his attitude was firm.

Zhang Fu's mouth moved slightly, but he couldn't say anything.

Li Xiaohan comforted, "I know you're worried about me. Don't worry, I'm measured. Winter is coming soon, and I'm going to stay in Pingshan Village for the winter. I won't wander around."

As a supporting character who cherishes her life, she must stay in her hometown and never wander around.

Zhang Fu felt bitter in his heart: I just know you know how to do it.

But what can be done? !

"Well. Then you'd better be careful. If anything happens, send someone to notify me immediately. Don't let Old Uncle Zhong go. It's safe to let Old Uncle Zhong stay with you. Let you villagers go to Tongfu Restaurant to follow Just tell the shopkeeper, I will tell the people over there, and tell me immediately if there is any news."

If the mountain doesn't come, I'll do it; if I do, the mountain will come.

"Yeah. I understand."

After explaining these things, the two went to Patriarch Li to inform him that Xuezheng had noticed the brewery in Pingshan Village and reminded the Patriarch to pay more attention.

This is a big deal. The hen that lays the golden eggs in the wine shop is related to the Li family's plan for rejuvenation. Unexpectedly, in the past six months, the family's school has been renovated and the book collection has been increased by one hundred volumes. Funds to support the elderly and the young are no longer tight.

Never allow people to cause trouble.

Patriarch Li's expression was very serious, "Don't worry, I will privately tell the brewers to be careful, and the family members will not be allowed to run around. Don't worry in the village, we will see any strangers coming in." Tightly, never let them touch our village wine shop."

"Yeah, yeah. Patriarch Li acts quickly and decisively, and we can't trust him any more. Now I'm just telling you the situation so that you can be prepared," Zhang Fu said.

Speaking of which, Patriarch Li's handling of Li Lanhua's matter is indeed impressive. Zhang Fu's words were not purely polite.

"Master Zhang trusts us, and we will naturally live up to this trust." Patriarch Li smiled with chrysanthemums all over his face.

The two of them were polite for a while, and Zhang Fu finally led his people back to the city, and Li Xiaohan could stay quietly in Pingshan Village.

No, I can't stay quietly either.

The next morning, the sun was shining brightly. In the main room in the backyard of Li Xiaohan's house, Mrs. Wang was instructing Li Xiaohan to make clothes.

"No, no, it's too sparse and crooked. It has to be thin and dense, and the edges have to be neat to look good." Ms. Wang said gently pointing to a piece of cotton cloth where Li Xiaohan practiced his craftsmanship.

The original idea was good. From the end of September to November, there are still nearly two months of work. Slowly polishing a set of clothes should be completed.

However, this matter is not so certain now.

Li Xiaohan has almost forgotten all her basic skills. She can't even thread a needle or sew very well.

Li Xiaohan wiped the sweat from his forehead. It seems that in terms of female celebrities, she has inherited the theoretical knowledge in this life and the practical ability in the previous life - she knows how to do it well, but she just can't do it.

She is not rejecting it. She has many skills, so being a female celebrity is a necessary skill in this era, and there is no harm in learning it.

It's just this needle that won't obey its orders.

"How about I practice by myself first. Mom, why don't you go do other things first?" Li Xiaohan said, deciding to show his determination to take the college entrance examination in his previous life. He practiced the questions a hundred times, and the meaning will be apparent. It's just that Wang doesn't have to waste time doing this work with her.

"I'd better accompany you."

"No. Mom, I'm too stressed here. I'll practice first and find out how I feel." Li Xiaohan refused righteously.

"Well, I'll come see you later." Mrs. Wang agreed. After all, her daughter was getting older, so she might be embarrassed.

"Well. Mom, go ahead and get busy." Li Xiaohan plunged into sewing.

The backyard here is busy, and people are coming to the front yard.

Li Hehua was in the front yard, preparing to fry the peppers as the base. She had to take care of them first. Now that the master is back, she can stay with him every day... Just as she was thinking about it, Li Lanhua came over cautiously.

For this cousin who she had looked down upon before, Li Hehua could not argue with the little awkwardness now - her father had already told her that Li Lanhua ran back after suffering a serious crime because she was illiterate and signed the wrong deed of betrayal. Finally got out.

Li Guihou's important point is: My dear daughter, please don't sign and fingerprint randomly. Learn more from your master on weekdays. If you learn 10%, your parents will feel relieved in the future.

Therefore, the small disputes in the past have disappeared. Now that Li Hehua saw Li Lanhua coming in, he tried his best to pretend to be calm and asked without knowing anything, "Lanhua, what are you doing here?"

Li Lanhua had already patrolled around and didn't see Li Xiaohan. She was disappointed. Seeing that Li Hehua was busy, she walked in and sat down next to her, "Sister Hehua, isn't Sister Xiaohan here?"

"You have something to ask Master? Is she busy in the backyard?" As for the fact that she did not go well in learning how to make clothes, it must not be leaked out, which will damage Master's image. When her master masters it, she will amaze everyone in one fell swoop.

"It's nothing. Then I won't disturb Sister Xiaohan." Li Lanhua said not to disturb Li Xiaohan, but she never left. She only helped Li Hehua with the peppers. Now, almost everyone in Pingshan Village has planted peppers. , Li Lanhua also knows how to handle peppers.

Seeing her like this, Li Hehua didn't chase her away, but the two of them had never been easy to deal with when they met before. They were speechless for a while and just worked quietly.

"Sister Hehua, I heard that you are learning from Sister Xiaohan, right?" In the silence, Li Lanhua asked in a low voice with envy while working.

"Yeah." Li Hehua was very proud.

"Sister Hehua, can you write your own name?" Li Lanhua's voice was slightly melancholy.

"I can." Li Hehua became a little unnatural.

"Then... Sister Hehua, can you write my name? Can you teach me?" Li Lanhua raised her head and looked at Li Hehua eagerly, full of longing.

"Sure." Li Hehua nodded, then looked left and right, found a wooden stick, and carefully wrote on the ground, "Look, our surname is Li, and Li is the character for wood at the top and the character for sub below. You 's name is Orchid, and Orchid is written like this..."

Li Hehua taught very seriously and wrote very slowly. Li Lanhua read very carefully without blinking.

"Okay. Just memorize it in your mind for a while, write more and practice, and you will learn it soon."

"Yeah." Li Lanhua picked up the stick and learned to write stroke by stroke. At first, she wrote slowly and awkwardly, but gradually she became more and more proficient. Finally, she moved to another place without copying. , I can write it myself.

"That's right, that's how it's written." Li Hehua affirmed.

"Sister Hehua, thank you." Li Lanhua said very gratefully. After a pause, she said a little embarrassedly, "Sister Hehua, do you know how to write Sister Xiaohan's name? Sister Xiaohan saved my life. , I want to remember her name."

"Well, you should remember. My grandfather said that only by remembering people who are kind to you and always being grateful can you go far." Li Hehua said happily, what a good person her master was, everyone should remember it. She said, "Come on, Master's surname is the same as ours. This is how the name is written. Please read it carefully."

"Yes." Li Lanhua nodded heavily and looked at Li Hehua very seriously.

In the corner of the quaint courtyard, two young girls were squatting on the ground, both bowing their heads. One was teaching seriously and the other was studying seriously.

=== Chapter === 128

After two days, Li Xiaohan felt that she had finally achieved her magic—in fact, she was finally able to sew a slightly finer stitch, and she could go out to meet people. After all, sewing clothes is a rather monotonous job. She can't stand it all day long.

As a result, as soon as they came out, they saw Li Lanhua and Li Hehua lowering their heads and muttering something.

Hearing the sound of the backyard door opening, they both raised their heads and shouted in surprise, "Master." "Sister Xiaohan."

"Hey, what are you doing?"

"Sister Xiaohan, Sister Hehua is teaching me how to read."

Li Xiaohan was slightly surprised, then he smiled and praised, "That's good. Lotus can also be a master."

Just when Li Hehua was about to proudly raise his head and say something modest, Li Lanhua had already taken over the topic, "Sister Xiaohan, I soiled your handkerchief that day. It was so bad that I couldn't even wash it clean." I'm really embarrassed to give it back to you. I made a new one for you, made of exactly the same fabric, and I even embroidered your name on it, take a look."

After Li Lanhua finished speaking, she took out a plain handkerchief from her arms.

Li Xiaohan's handkerchiefs are all made by Wang. Because of Li Xiaohan's preference, they are made of pure cotton, plain absorbent fabrics, with the edges trimmed, so simple that they look a bit crude, but Li Xiaohan just likes it— Isn't that what a small towel is for wiping sweat? What kind of embroidery do you want?

As for Li Lanhua, this one is also made of the same fabric, but the stitching is more delicate. There are also three characters Li Xiaohan embroidered with the same color embroidery thread at the bottom. The lines are careful and the fonts are correct, which shows that a lot of effort has been put into it. of.

"Actually, no, that handkerchief is old, you don't need to give me a new one." Li Xiaohan's handkerchief requires less effort and is more in quantity. It's just an old handkerchief. She really doesn't mind.

"Sister Xiaohan, you have helped me so much, but I have nothing to repay you with. It's just a small kindness." Li Lanhua said pitifully.

"Okay, I'll take it." Li Xiaohan took it, looked at it carefully, and praised it politely, "Your needlework skills are pretty good."

Although it is not as good as those in the embroidery houses in the city, it still shows some meticulous work. Among the girls in the village, it is really good.

When Li Lanhua heard this, she smiled even more happily, "My mother and others also said that I have some talent here. Sister Xiaohan, you see, I have exactly the same one myself. From now on, we will have the same style." It's a handkerchief."

"You embroidered it in the past two days, right?" The speed was quite fast.

"Yes, yes. My mother doesn't need me to work, so I just do this. Sister Xiaohan, if you like it, I will embroider some more for you."

"One is enough for me, but you must carefully keep your handkerchief with your name embroidered on it and don't leave it somewhere else." Li Xiaohan warned.

Although the defense between men and women is not that strict at this time, it doesn't sound good if the handkerchief embroidered with the woman's name falls to other places, so why take the initiative to cause trouble.

"I know, Sister Xiaohan, I'm just so happy that I learned to write my own name."

"You're pretty good at learning calligraphy. Learn it slowly."

"Hey. Sister Xiaohan, I know you are very busy. I have never dared to disturb you. Finally, I waited until you came out. Sister Xiaohan, can I come to you more often in the future?" Li Lanhua deserves something special. Loudly, with a bit of anxiety and pity in the end.

Li Hehua on the side felt something was wrong the more he heard it, and his eyes widened.

No, I regard you as your sister, but you actually want to steal my master.

Li Hehua was furious, Li Hehua was furious, and Li Hehua swore to break off all relations with Li Lanhua - Li Lanhua was still the same Li Lanhua, she underestimated her, and was actually blinded.

"Master..."

"Well. How are you doing with your homework? I haven't checked on you during this time. Let's do a surprise inspection today." Li Xiaohan stopped smiling, and instead straightened his face and said seriously.

"Master, please check, I have always been very serious." Li Hehua said loudly.

He glanced at Li Lanhua from the corner of his eye, full of provocation.

"Sister Xiaohan, can I listen together?" Li Lanhua asked weakly.

"Ah, you can't. This involves some secret recipes, which is not very convenient. Do you have anything else to do with me?"

"there is none left."

"Then, would you like to sit by yourself again, or go home first? I have something to tell He Hua, so I may not be able to entertain you." Li Xiaohan apologized.

"Then... I'll go home first, Sister Xiaohan. I'll come find you another day." Seeing that Li Xiaohan really didn't hold back, Li Lanhua looked back three times and left pitifully.

"Um."

When Li Lanhua disappeared, Li Xiaohan made a surprise inspection of Li Hehua's homework as he said.

But, "Master, didn't you say that it involves a secret recipe and it's inconvenient for Li Lanhua to hear it?"

However, in fact, what Li Xiaohan inspected were Li Hehua's reading and arithmetic homework, and some data on pepper cultivation. It didn't matter if Li Lanhua didn't understand the former, but it didn't matter if he understood the latter. The pepper stuff is open to the entire Pingshan Village.

"What? You have questions about the pepper base or the brewing? Isn't it said that it has been going smoothly? Or maybe you have been holding back what you don't understand until now." Li Xiaohan frowned slightly.

"That's not true." Li Hehua immediately retorted. Li Xiaohan taught that in these practical operations, if you don't understand anything, you should ask immediately and don't wait. The sooner the problem is solved, the less likely it will be to cause losses and losses. The fewer mistakes he made, but he asked a little embarrassedly, "Why else would you tell Li Lanhua about a secret recipe and ask her to go back first?"

Li Xiaohan glanced at her and then disagreed, "Lanhua wants to compete with you, so of course I'm going for you. Who makes you my apprentice? Of course I can tell the difference between closeness and distance. What's the matter? , you don't like it?"

"Ah, Master, I love you so much. I love you so much." Li Hehua was so excited that she rushed over and gave Li Xiaohan a tight hug, "I love you the most."

The tight hug wasn't enough, and he tried to shake him left and right.

"Okay, if you want to strangle me, let go." Li Xiaohan struggled to get away in anger.

"Hehe, hehe, Master, I'm just too excited." Li Hehua then let go and giggled.

After a while, he said embarrassedly, "Am I unsympathetic? In fact, I know that she is quite pitiful, and she is serious about learning calligraphy. And Master, you saved her, and she wants to get close to you. It's understandable. But, I just don't feel comfortable."

"It's normal to feel uncomfortable." Li Xiaohan said lightly, "Actually, it seems to me that Li Lanhua's temperament is a bit crooked. It was brought up by her grandmother. In this world, at least in my world , it's not that whoever is weak is justified, and whoever is weak must give way. She is very pitiful, but her pity is not caused by you and me. You have taught her how to read, why should you give in to her. She Whether intentionally or unintentionally, they all have the intention of using you and then kicking you away. You are not a stupid person, so it is normal to feel uncomfortable."

In Li Xiaohan's opinion, the main culprits for the tragedy of the Laozhai family are Li Shengli and Li Cairong, but Chen is also responsible.

Pretending to be weak and then obtaining benefits is what Chen is best at.

Thinking of the Laozhai family, Li Xiaohan frowned, "You have to remember that in this world, only sincerity is the most touching. The road that goes straight will always succeed."

Li Xiaohan said with a straight face, "This is the lesson I taught you today, and it is also a lesson I hope you will never forget."

"Yes, Master, I remember." Li Hehua nodded seriously.

The two masters and apprentices were talking about Li Lanhua here, while Li Lanhua returned to the old house in frustration.

Now Li Shengli and Li Xiannan's family have moved out, leaving only Li Xianxi's family in the old house. However, Li Shengli and others were not polite before leaving, so they took away everything they could from the house, leaving an empty and messy house. Wu was extremely busy trying to make a living in a mess, and Li Xianxi was also scolded to have no time to spare.

However, even so, Li Lanhua didn't have to do any work. Wu was heartbroken about the suffering her daughter had suffered, and wanted Li Lanhua to learn more from Li Xiaohan, so she kept asking Li Lanhua to go to Li Xiaohan's house.

"Why did you come back so early today? Didn't you come back until almost noon in the past?" Mrs. Wu asked with concern when she saw Li Lanhua's gloomy expression.

"Mom, Sister Li Xiaohan said she didn't have time to receive me, so she asked me to come back first. Mom, does Sister Xiaohan hate me?"

"What's going on? Please tell me in detail." This is a big deal, Wu quickly stopped and asked anxiously.

Li Lanhua recounted the events of the past few days in detail. Unexpectedly, the more she talked, the worse Wu's complexion became, and her lips were slightly blue and trembling.

At the end of the sentence, Mrs. Wu slapped Li Lanhua on the face, but at the end she withdrew the force, just hugging herself and sitting on the ground crying, "What on earth have I done to marry this person?" The Li family came and gave birth to you, a debt collector. You are just like your grandmother, with a bad nature. Your roots are all bad, what the hell did I raise!"

"Mom, I didn't, I didn't..." Seeing Wu's reaction, Li Lanhua also panicked. After this scene, she also understood that Wu, her own mother, was one of the few people who treated her sincerely. of people.

"You didn't, you didn't. Why didn't you feel any gratitude at all after learning the calligraphy from Hehua! What are you trying to do in front of her! Xiaohan saved you. This kind of life-saving friendship can't be done after you keep it in your heart. Even if you risk your life and forget about death, you can see the Buddha kowtow to her three times and bless her for a safe life. Who are you trying to fool with a small handkerchief! What else do you want to get from her!" Mrs. Wu raised her head and raised her hands. Eyes red.

"You were born by me, you were born by me, I don't know what you are thinking. You just think you are pitiful, and everyone should pity you and let you go. You just want more."

"I just want more, I just want revenge, what's wrong with me! Didn't you tell me to learn more!"

"Snapped!"

This time, Wu's slap came again without any strength!

Li Lanhua raised her head in disbelief.

"I'm so disappointed in you. I shouldn't have let you learn skills. You just can't be a good person. You should learn to be a good person first." Wu hit Li Lanhua, but it was more like hitting herself. His face was full of pain and disappointment.

"...Mother, mother."

Wu didn't respond to her anymore, and Li Lanhua gradually became panicked, "Mother, mother, don't ignore me, don't ignore me. I will change whatever you say. Mother, please, please Please."

"You change?" Wu raised her head in a daze.

"Yes, I will change." Li Lanhua burst into tears and nodded, "You said, if you ask me not to learn from my grandmother, I will not learn from my grandmother. I will do whatever you ask me to do. I will change, I will Change everything!"

Wu stretched out her hand in pain, hugged her daughter and cried together.

She was born, no matter how wrong she is, she can only admit it, what can I do, what can I do!

The strangest thing is herself. She is afraid of her parents-in-law, and she is obsessed with coveting the family property. She was uneducated in the first half of her life. She committed sins, and she will be punished on her children, which is why she is like this.

Behind the door, Li Xianxi, who had just returned from cutting firewood, listened to the quarrel in silence, and finally squatted down with his face covered, speechless for a long time.

After that, Li Lanhua was never seen looking for Li Xiaohan and Li Hehua again. However, after a period of time, he probably recovered from his injuries. Occasionally, he would see Li Lanhua following Wu, working silently, mowing grass, Picking cotton, washing...

It's just that Li Lanhua didn't come, but Li Xiaohan's family was still not clean. Without him, it was all because of the little girls from the village who came one after another. The Li family became more lively every day.

=== Chapter === 129

The little girl from the clan came to see Li Xiaohan, and speaking of it, she had something to do with Li Lanhua.

Previously, Li Xiaohan was in the clan. In fact, apart from Li Hehua, he didn't have many close friends of the same age. Before awakening his memories, Li Xiaohan was not in harmony with the clan members. After awakening his memories, Li Xiaohan had been arrogant. Tengteng's job was upgraded, and he came into contact with aunts and uncles, and finally worked all the way to Fucheng. In an instant, it seemed that Li Xiaohan had not recovered yet, and Li Xiaohan was already a figure that many little girls did not dare to reach for.

However, after the Li Lanhua incident happened - it was so tragic that an ancestral hall was opened on the spot to excommunicate Li Cairong and others, and the fact that Li Lanhua was deceived and sold could no longer be concealed. Although I don't know what happened to Li Lanhua, it must have been very tragic. Otherwise, why would Li Lanhua risk her life and run back? Clan Chief Li would not be able to use family rules and clan rules, and then he would leave the clan.

Anyway, after the clan members gathered around to watch, they all felt sad and couldn't help but give a few words of advice to girls of similar age.

Girls are even more afraid. The outside world is so cannibalistic, but people can't help but be curious about the colorful world outside, so they are afraid and curious at the same time.

At this time, Li Xiaohan and Li Hehua, the only two people who have seen the outside world and are living better and better, are even more outstanding.

At first, all the little girls felt a little unreachable or embarrassed, but they couldn't help but Li Lanhua started to bloom. Li Lanhua ran to Li Xiaohan's house twice a day for three days, and the others I don't know that Li Lanhua only met Li Xiaohan for the last time, but I just thought that since Li Lanhua could go, they should be able to go too.

So, on this day, four little girls came together carrying a basket of mushrooms. Li Xiaohan liked to eat mushroom stewed chicken, mushroom pork ribs soup, and mushroom cabbage sum, but the Wang family The three of them were busy and didn't have much time to go up the mountain, so Wang asked a few women she had made friends with to help pick some.

Because of the pepper base and pepper wine, especially the pepper base, people have to be invited at the turn of spring and summer, so Wang doesn't want to be too popular. So, several little girls came to the door carrying a basket of fragrant mushrooms.

I was a little embarrassed at first, so everyone said, "Sister Xiaohan, my mother asked me to give you some fragrant mushrooms."

Use your mother's excuse to do things.

"Ah, thank you." Li Xiaohan quickly took it and asked everyone to sit down, "Sit down, sit down. Lan Hua and I just happened to be bored. Let's have some snacks."

Aunt He brought the tea with a wink. Mrs. Wang heard a few girls coming to see Li Xiaohan. After thinking about it, she brought up the Fucheng dim sum in the cabinet - hers. My daughter, it seems that there are not many good sisters in the village. How can this be done? Her daughter is the most popular.

So, the topic started with the pastries in Fucheng.

"This is the pastry in Fucheng! It looks so delicate and delicious," said a little girl.

"Ah, I saw this pastry when I went to Fucheng, but it was too expensive. Our family can't afford it." A little girl carefully picked up a piece of pastry and said with a bit of embarrassment.

"Lizi, you have been to Fucheng, but I haven't been there yet. I wonder if Fucheng is fun?" the original girl said with a hint of envy.

"Fucheng looks very tall and big. I will go with my parents to buy hairpin-length clothes. When I am fifteen, you can go to Fucheng to see the world." The girl was a little shy. explain.

Li Xiaohan was a little confused because he had to wait until he was old enough to go to Fucheng. Isn't Fucheng quite close to their village? On weekdays, the men in the village often go to Fucheng to set up stalls and sell local specialties, but why have these girls never been there?

Thinking of this, Li Xiaohan asked, "Have you never been to Fucheng? Isn't Fucheng quite close to our village?"

"I have been there several times, always with my mother to buy handkerchiefs and take the opportunity to secretly see the tricks in the city." One of the girls who said little said, "In our village. , that's a lot. When we were young, we were too young and it was a burden to take them out. But when we grow up, we don't have to help with the work, and we have to help take care of our younger brothers and sisters. Where do we have time?"

"Yes. Our dad goes there more often, and sometimes mom goes too." After saying this, the girls all looked at each other and smiled bitterly.

"Actually, what I envy more than going to Fucheng is being able to count and read." The little girl just now said again, "Once, when I went to sell handkerchiefs, I also took the cloth woven at home. , the guy suddenly calculated a total number, and my dad happened to be away, so the guy calculated the wrong number. My mother and I felt something was wrong, but the guy insisted that it was this number, or we could do the math ourselves. , My mother and I didn't understand, and we didn't dare to argue, so we just let it go. Later, when I got home, my dad calculated and found that we were short of three cents."

This girl was full of melancholy, perhaps recalling that moment in the past with bitterness, "Three pennies, I have to make many handkerchiefs. But the store's rule is not to recognize them when they go out, and we don't dare to pay for these three pennies." If you offend the store owner, forget it. Later, every time you go out of the city, you must be accompanied by my father."

For a moment, all the little girls in the room were silent. Sister Jin Gui was already the older and more stable girl among them. No one would know that she had suffered such a secret loss unless she told her. Everyone is thinking, what if it was them? If it were them, would they be like Li Lanhua?

"Have you never learned how to read and count from your father?" Li Hehua asked anxiously.

In fact, Li Xiaohan also had this question. After all, when she first taught Li Hehua, Li Hehua's basic arithmetic and literacy were pretty good, at least to the extent that he would not be easily deceived.

Speaking of this, the girl named Lizi just said with anger, "I told my dad, dad, please teach me, I'm afraid too. You know what my dad said, no, my dad thought about it." After a long while, he talked about pears. If you are not my father, I will not teach you. Your father and I were just playing around back then. Now I have forgotten almost everything except my own name. If you ask your brother to teach you, just tell me what I said. He will definitely I wanted to teach. I went to find my brother. My brother was just like my father. After school, he rushed out to play and basically forgot everything the teacher said. He asked too many questions and became impatient. I'm so angry. But I would never waste such a good opportunity."

"Sigh. My dad is a little better, but he is also busy on weekdays. When it comes to talking, he just wants to teach one word after another. I have learned the king of heaven and earth, but I don't know what the use is. I might as well learn something from Sister Jin Gui. If you can do math, you can do it more clearly."

"I can only do arithmetic, but I can't do large numbers. However, my father comes to sign any documents with merchants." Miss Jingui's family is considered to be a wealthy family in the village. .

Only then did Li Xiaohan realize that although they had popularized ethnology, it was really only popular among the men in the clan, and Li Hehua and her original daughter should already be considered one of the best in the village. A good family.

In other words, Li Xiandong insisted on teaching her how to read instead of forgetting like others. Li Xiaohan thought of Li Xiandong's three-character classic that was turned to the rough edges. Her grandmother must have supported her father's study. After she dropped out of school, her father must have cared a lot about it, so he turned the book to the rough edges.

The atmosphere fell into silence for a while, everyone had their own concerns. Li Xiaohan tried his best to take on the responsibility of the host, "Speaking of which, I rarely had contact with you sisters in the past. Now that I have free time, I want to talk to you. My sister is very close to me."

When these words came out, the other girls also tried to cheer up. Jin Gui was indeed the leader among them. She also smiled and said, "That's right, we didn't come here to talk to Xiaohan. How do you feel?" I'm not happy anymore. Xiaohan happened to be free and told us about the things in Fucheng. Everyone is extremely curious."

"Fucheng , speaking of it, I just went to Fucheng not long ago, and it was the round of selling cotton combs. At that time, we sold cotton combs for eight cents per pair, and an aunt sold four pairs. Let's count them together. How much does it cost?"

Li Xiaohan paused for a moment and saw that the four little girls were all frowning and calculating, and then slowly said, "A pair of eight essays, two pairs is sixteen essays, three pairs is sixteen essays plus eight Twenty-four articles, four pairs are twenty-four plus eight, a total of thirty-two articles."

Li Xiaohan spoke very slowly, and after adding up these steps step by step, these girls all understood, and then she made a turn, "I didn't know what I was thinking at the time. Said, the auntie has a total of twenty-six cents. The auntie was shocked, and my father was also shocked, hahahahaha, you think I am so embarrassed. Fortunately, the aunt didn't care about it, otherwise my family would have suffered a loss. "

"Hahahaha." The girls around laughed. The main reason was that Li Xiaohan didn't mind it. She said it as a joke, but everyone was affected by it and thought it was not the same thing.

Moreover, Xiaohan, who is so capable, was not counted at the beginning, just like them. Now, the distance between everyone is getting closer.

"Speaking of this stall-setting thing, do you all know why the stalls in the village always go to the West Market? Even on the surface, everyone is under the control of the government, but many times, this kind of stall market is under the control of the government. There is a little secret power, so if you have to pay the protection fee at this time, just pay it, don't be reluctant to part with these things."

"I know this. My father said that when he set up a stall to sell bamboo mats, he gave me one as a filial piety. My mother was very heartbroken. My father said that this was all right. If someone really made trouble, the Qing Gang would also I won't ignore it at all."

"Yes, that's the case, because it means collecting things. But we can't rely entirely on the Qinggang. Our own clansmen also have to help each other."

…

The four people who came were all very curious about Fucheng and what happened when they were doing small business. Together with Li Hehua and Li Xiaohan, the six little girls chattered for half the story. In the morning, Aunt He refilled the tea three times, but didn't touch the snacks much, and then reluctantly left.

"Everyone come over and play tomorrow morning." Li Xiaohan said.

"If you don't mind us being noisy, we can all come over." Jin Gui said in a playful voice.

"How can I dislike the sisters? As long as the sisters don't dislike my clumsiness." Li Xiaohan's two pieces of cloth that had been sewn halfway were finally discovered.

"Then we are really here?"

"Come on, my door is open." Li Xiaohan said with a smile.

When several people saw that Li Xiaohan really thought like this and was not just saying polite words, they laughed even more happily and explained that the day would come again.

After sending away these little girls, Li Xiaohan closed the door of Li's house.

Do not know why.

Maybe after the excitement, it became even more lonely, and Li Xiaohan actually felt a little sad.

=== Chapter === 130

Early the next morning, the little girls headed by Jin Gui came to Li Xiaohan's house again, and this time there were two more embarrassed girls.

"The two of them originally wanted to come yesterday, but they just didn't have time, so they came today." Jin Gui explained with a smile.

In fact, the two girls were embarrassed. They knew it late and were afraid that too many people would disturb Li Xiaohan. After returning home, they asked Jin Guiyi about Xiaohan and found out that Xiaohan was so approachable and even welcomed them to come over the next day, so he came to the door today. .

"Here, welcome. Sisters and sisters are here just in time. Please help me today. I want to make something new." Li Xiaohan and Li Hehua carried a few wooden boards and looked at the busy work. They said in a nonchalant manner. .

"What? What are we going to do?" Jin Gui and others asked curiously. What Li Xiaohan is going to do, I always think it will be very fresh.

"I'll keep it a secret for the time being. I won't tell everyone until I make it." Li Xiaohan said mysteriously, "Sisters, help me polish this board smooth. Be careful not to get stabbed."

"Come on, the horsetail grass is over here. It has been soaked. Let's take a bunch for yourselves." Li Xiaohan put down the board and came over with another plate of weeds.

In this era, horsetail grass, also called horsetail grass, was generally used by carpenters to polish furniture.

She didn't know in the past that in modern times, polishing is done by machine, and sometimes she uses sandpaper for home use. Li Xiaohan was worried, and Li Xiandong told her about horsetail. Only then did Li Xiaohan know that there is such a convenient and easy-to-use thing, and the horsetail is particularly easy to preserve. It just needs to be dried and placed in the sun, and then soaked in water to expand when needed.

Sure enough, the wisdom of the ancient people cannot be underestimated.

"Oh, it turns out it's this. When my second uncle's family was building a house earlier, they asked a carpenter from the next village to come over and open the windows. I was saying it sounded familiar." Jin Gui remembered it first, "I was just embarrassed to ask at the time. I just Looked at it a few times."

There are also some things that the girls have never seen before. After all, carpentry seems not to be an area of interest for girls by default - but in fact, the girls are all eager to do it themselves.

Li Xiaohan has already asked Li Xiandong for advice, and now he is giving everyone instructions in a decent manner, "First put a rag between your hands so as not to hurt your hands, then grab a handful of horsetail and rub it hard."

Li Xiandong took the time to saw the thin wooden board for them yesterday afternoon, but before they had time to deal with it, Li Xiaohan thought about it and decided to do it himself. Besides, she still has helpers. What better way to learn than to participate from the beginning?

As expected, none of the girls were delicate. Together, they neatly rolled up their sleeves, picked up horsetail, and quickly polished the four thin wooden boards. The girls are usually used to doing the work and are very attentive. Although they were a little unskilled at first, they soon found the trick. The final result was smooth and flat, and the board was not irritating at all.

"I said, I didn't expect that we did quite well." Jin Gui touched the smooth and flat board and sighed, "I always thought that I could only do weaving and embroidery."

"Hey, is there anything we can't do?" Before Li Xiaohan could speak, Li Hehua added with a smile, "This year my dad even asked me for advice on how to grow peppers. In the past, my dad was more authoritative in the fields. Yeah, he has the final say after the separation, so he has to come and ask me for advice on how to grow peppers."

"Not only did your father ask you for advice, but all the gentlemen in the village came to ask you how to grow peppers. We are all very impressed." Lizi and others said with a smile.

"I was actually taught by my master. If I want to say it's amazing, my master is great. My master taught the whole city how to make pewter. I can't even imagine it." Li Hehua sighed.

"Yes." The girls agreed. Planting peppers was still within the scope of everyone's knowledge. After all, it was similar to other crops, but making white wax really seemed to be generated out of thin air.

"Actually, ash is also very simple, at least much simpler than raising silkworms. You see, our ancestors raised all the silkworm seeds at home, raised some ash worms on the trees, and then collected some wax silk and steamed it home. "Nothing." Li Xiaohan smiled and said calmly, "So let's not think at the beginning that it won't work. Don't think at the beginning that this is not suitable for girls. Only after trying it can we know whether it can be done. Okay. Men and women are all human beings, why are there so many things that men can do that women can't do. We must admit that men are stronger, but we must also see that we are more dexterous, right?"

"Yes, that's the truth." Li Hehua unconditionally supported what Master said.

As for the other girls, they have heard that men and women are different since they were born. They didn't realize it for a while. No one answered. Li Xiaohan didn't force it and continued, "The planks are polished. Next, let's polish the planks. Coloring."

After speaking, Li Xiaohan took out the glutinous rice flour and ink sticks that he had prepared earlier. Li Hehua helped grind the ink. Li Xiaohan took an empty bowl and mixed the ground ink and a little glutinous rice flour evenly. Then he took out the rag ball. Form into small groups and apply ink color to the template board just now.

The girls looked at Li Xiaohan for a while and then at Li Hehua. Li Xiaohan said seriously, "Well, two of us will help Hehua grind the ink first, and the rest will help me. It will be our turn later. Everyone is familiar with the whole process." , I will feel confident from now on."

"Hey." The girls' eyes lit up, they deserved special caution.

After about half an hour, the color on both sides of the board was evenly applied. To ensure the quality, Li Xiaohan and the others applied it twice, but the ink was a little too worn.

"It just so happens that I have to write in the afternoon, and it saves me the time of sharpening ink." Li Xiaohan said very happily.

The girls breathed a sigh of relief, the ink was not wasted, and became happy again.

Li Hehua was a little strange. She hadn't heard that her master said she had to write in the afternoon. Hasn't she been sewing clothes recently? However, when the master is doing things, the disciples should ask less questions.

After blackening the wooden board and setting it aside to dry, Li Xiaohan brought some lime and gypsum - still from the winery, because the winery sometimes needs to use lime to disinfect and dry it, otherwise it is afraid of breeding snakes, insects, rats and ants.

Mix the lime gypsum with water to form a slurry, and then pour it into the thin bamboo branches that were split in half and then joined together. After it is almost solidified, break the bamboo branches apart and take out the finger-thick lime sticks to dry.

It was almost noon after being so busy. Everyone made dozens of lime sticks and put them all on small dustpans to dry.

"What on earth are you doing?"

After finishing their work, they drank tea and ate snacks - this time Mrs. Wang did not bring everyone the expensive snacks from Fucheng, but the ones made by Aunt He herself. The girls finally dared to let go and eat, looking at these people in the yard. They have never seen anything before, and everyone's curiosity has reached its peak.

After finishing the snacks, it was almost time for lunch. It would be rude to stay any longer. The girls were so embarrassed. They wanted to at least reveal the answer to the mystery before going back, and they all looked at Li Xiaohan eagerly.

Li Xiaohan still looked mysterious, "It's not done yet. Come over tomorrow and I'll tell you."

"Okay, let's go back first and come over tomorrow to see." Jin Gui, the most steady one, took the lead and said.

"Remember, everyone has to come over, and no one is left out." Li Xiaohan warned, and after a pause, he added, "If you have other work to do, you can come to my house to do it. Let's do it together. Lively."

They are all farm girls. Whenever they have free time, they go to the neighbor's house and stay half the morning without working. Most of the women in the village do some work of collecting shoe soles and mending clothes while they are idle. This is quite easy.

Sure enough, when Li Xiaohan said this, the girls laughed even more happily, "Hey, we know."

The next morning, the girls came again. Jin Gui brought her own handkerchief embroidery frame to embroider handkerchiefs. Li Zi and other girls came here carrying half a basket of cotton and combing the cotton. Some of the remaining girls came with old cotton-padded clothes. Winter is about to come. The children at home can wear their old cotton-padded clothes two inches wider. They can wear them when winter comes.

Everyone was preparing to come here to work, and they felt a lot more relaxed. They usually worked at home, but now they just moved to a different place. The work was not delayed, and everyone became closer.

When we arrived at Li Xiaohan's house, the most eye-catching thing was that the wooden boards that had been painted black yesterday had been nailed together to form a big board, standing on the desk in the main room.

Everyone found a place to sit down, put down their things, and then curiously asked, "What is Xiaohan doing?"

Li Xiaohan held yesterday's white chalk made of lime, stood aside, and said with a smile, "I know the hearts and thoughts of all you sisters. Now let's give it a try. If we fail, we will lose everything." It's just a little effort spent yesterday. If you get something, no matter how small or short-lived it is, it's still very good."

After speaking, Li Xiaohan turned around, then took the white chalk and wrote the first word on the black board, Li.

"This is Li, Shang Muxiazi, from the Li clan in Pingshan Village."

Then continue to write, Jin Gui, "This is the name of sister Jin Gui. Jin is the gold of gold, the best, and Gui is the laurel of osmanthus."

"Pear, this is Sister Lizi's name. Pear is a very sweet fruit. Everyone likes it."

"Qingmiao, sister Qingmiao was born in spring, right..."

On the last blackboard, according to the order of everyone's names yesterday, Li Xiaohan wrote down six names alone, and then turned around to face everyone, "Okay, these are everyone's names. Let's recognize them first. Let me teach you one by one."

"What kind of sweet fruit is there? It's just that my family has the most pear trees in the mountains, so my parents brought pears to them." Li Zi was the most excited, choking with sobs, "So that's what pears are written on. My dad I only remember one word Li, and the word pear is written wrong."

"Don't cry, what a good thing." Jin Gui was the most steady, saying "Don't cry" but with a trembling voice, "Today I can still see the names of all the sisters written like this. Maybe in the future, Xiaohan won't As I said, the more you learn, the more you gain."

"Yes. So don't take it too seriously, and don't delay your work. Otherwise, there will be endless work, and there will be no future after this." Li Xiaohan said with a smile.

In my previous life, I heard an old man say that in the early years of the founding of the People's Republic of China, literacy was done in the fields, and learning Chinese characters was done while working in the hands after work at night. That was still advocated and supported by the country, and reading Literacy can bring visible benefits such as job opportunities, etc., and this is why it is popularized.

But as for Li Xiaohan, he may only get attention from the temporary thoughts of little girls. This was stimulated by the tragic case of Li Lanhua. As time goes by, no matter how exciting things are, they will also slow down. Slowly fade away the traces.

Li Xiaohan didn't know how many girls could persevere in what he was doing, and how many girls' families could support him.

After all, the little girls who come here are already twelve years old, and the older ones are fifteen years old, just like me. They are most likely responsible for part of the housework at home: feeding livestock, taking care of younger siblings, and cooking. etc., and even help in the fields when the farming season is busy. I don't know whether I can persist in the long term.

Moreover, there are also external factors that may sway you, such as disapproval from your family, the fact that you are old enough to see others, and you spend a lot of time every day but cannot see the results, etc.

There are many difficulties ahead. In fact, Li Xiaohan is not very hopeful.

However, even so, Li Xiaohan hopes that he will give it a try, try his best to reach out and answer the call of the moment, so that he will not be disturbed by this in the future.

Therefore, after Li Xiaohan said not to delay his work, he picked up his own piece of clothing and sewed it for two days, but he didn't sew much. Seeing her like this, Jin Gui started to open his embroidery frame, Li Zi picked up the cotton from the basket and started to comb it, and the others also started to do their own work.

However, Jin Gui's embroidery did not go smoothly at the beginning. From time to time, she looked up at the small blackboard, and occasionally pricked her hand due to distraction.

Li Xiaohan was a little strange, Jin Gui should know his own name, but slowly he realized that Jin Gui was looking at other people's names. The most mature, stable and knowledgeable girl wanted to know all the words today.

Li Xiaohan sighed in his heart.

Looking at Li Zi again, Li Zi is not afraid of hurting her hands when combing cotton, and she is not as worried as Jin Gui about reading all the names, so she only looks at her own name, occasionally gestures, and then laughs. Got to be happier and happier.

There are still many girls like Lizi.

Seeing this, Li Xiaohan couldn't help but feel happy. No matter what, he could remember his name, and the joy at this moment was real.

"Ouch, my mind is a little messed up. Does this word look like a line?"

"Haha, watch it a few times and make it familiar first. Then you can ask Xiaohan."

"Yes, ask me."

…

The main hall in the front yard gradually regained its popularity, and Aunt He and Mr. Wang were whispering in the backyard.

"The second girl is teaching the little girls in the village how to read. She looks very serious." Aunt He had been passing by and taking a look at it for several times while she was working.

It's just that although she looks very serious, Aunt He thinks in her heart that these little girls are just a whim - reading and writing is a man's job, and women can't take the imperial examination, so they don't need it on weekdays. , there is no great use in learning it. People of her age are the most simple people. She said that learning more about cooking and sewing is the way to live.

But a woman only has such happy days in her life, that is, when she is a girl. It doesn't matter whether it can be used or not. You can spend a lot of time doing sewing and sewing in the kitchen after you get married.

Mrs. Wang was a little stunned, and then she smiled and said, "It would be good to at least be able to understand the property deed."

"That's true." Aunt He agreed with a smile.

=== Chapter === 131

On the first day of October, Li Xiaohan's family.

The elementary school at Li Xiaohan's house has been open for six days, and the expected drop in interest did not happen - Li Xiaohan still underestimated his own charm and asked his little girl to make friends with Li Xiaohan. , the villagers are eager to have this opportunity.

And they didn't delay their home affairs. They went out after finishing their work in the morning and came back before lunch, which was half the morning. They still took their work with them when they went out, and the cotton was combed when they came back anyway. Now, most of the cotton-padded clothes have been sewn. Although it is a little slow, it is not a big deal.

It's just that this school is getting more and more lively.

"Sister Xiaohan, I'm sorry to bother you." A soft but serious childish voice said.

Li Xiaohan touched the little girl who only reached her waist and said, "Lihua is here, welcome."

"Sister Han, I'm sorry. It's getting cold early this year. My mother said that we should collect the beans from the fields as soon as possible. But I couldn't get away, so I brought the pear flowers over." Li Zi was very unhappy. Say it politely.

Lihua is Lizi's younger sister. She is only six years old now. In fact, she is less than five years old. She really needs to be watched.

Lizi's parents also wanted to support her, but there were only so many people in the family, and Lizi didn't want to not come. It was such a rare opportunity, so they had no choice but to shamelessly bring Lihua over, "Don't worry, Miss Han. Lihua has always been very well-behaved and obedient, and will not cause trouble to anyone."

"It doesn't matter, sister Chunhua also brought her brother over, let them play in the yard together." Li Xiaohan said with a smile.

Sure enough, as soon as he finished speaking, a three-year-old boy came out from the corridor next to him. A boy of this age didn't even have any family knowledge. It was the time to make a scene.

Lizi breathed a sigh of relief first, and then sighed again. There are more and more children, can their school continue?

It doesn't matter to Li Xiaohan. If she is required to concentrate on studying, no little girl here can persist for a long time. Even Li Jingui, who has the best conditions in the family and is the youngest, still has the task of embroidering handkerchiefs.

On the contrary, this wild model can last longer, preferably before spring plowing next year.

As for spring plowing, let's take a spring plowing holiday. Spring plowing people don't go to school.

So, while the three-year-old boy was walking around and the six-year-old girl was confused and confused, Li Xiaohan started today's teaching, "Today we are going to learn numbers. First we are going to learn numbers. One, two, three, four, five..."

There was also a little boy in the middle, saying, "Sister, I peed." "Sister, I need to poop." Chunhua carried her to the latrine in shame.

There are also little girls, "One, two, three, five, five!" "What else? What else? They are all five." Although there are no other little dolls to compare, Lizi feels My sister may not be very smart.

But there seems to be nothing wrong with it. Anyway, no one feels bad. Those who teach continue to teach, those who learn continue to learn, and those who should do the work continue to do the work.

By noon, everyone packed up and went home. Today they learned something new, and their work at home was not delayed.

After lunch, Li Xiaohan planned to go to Fucheng in the afternoon.

"Miss Li, it's very cold today and the wind is strong. Do you want to take a carriage to Fucheng? The wind hurts your face while riding." Old Uncle Zhong looked at the day and said with a frown.

"No." Li Xiaohan didn't even think about refusing. He raised his legs and bent down to get on the horse - he finally learned to ride a horse. It felt so good to fly freely and be in control of his own. Just because of this little discomfort, she went back to the carriage. Never.

However, after galloping all the way to Fucheng, Li Xiaohan found that the wind was indeed a bit stronger, and her face felt dry and painful. It seems that there is one more task for coming to Fucheng. I have to go to Rouge Hall to buy a box of noodles later.

Rouge Hall has a lot of facial fat, but Li Xiaohan asked carefully about the formula before he dared to use it until he made sure there was no cinnabar and talcum powder. The clerk in the store was very surprised by Li Xiaohan's request, but he still carefully picked out one suitable for Li Xiaohan. The price is not too expensive, after all, the cinnabar, talcum powder and the like that Li Xiaohan doesn't want are the most effective expensive products.

After buying facial grease, Li Xiaohan went to Qinggang's shop and bought some pieces of white rabbit fur - the clothing material Zhang Fu gave her also contained good wool, but Li Xiaohan was reluctant to cut it into strips.

Yes, Li Xiaohan has discovered in despair that her talent for needlework is limited. Her hair-length clothes can only be sewn together by herself, not to mention embroidery. Any pattern that can be exposed can be decorated with her. None of them worked.

So, Li Xiaohan decided to take a clever approach. She couldn't embroider, so she designed some furry edges as decoration. She is only fifteen this year, and she looks good in such furry clothes at her age.

The one who stayed behind in the store was Brother Ma Wu.

"Miss Li, if you want furs, just wait a few days. We have a batch of good goods arriving in a few days. We will leave the best ones for you then. Why do you need these worthless rabbit furs?" Ma Wu disagreed. Looking at Li Xiaohan, he said, he must have that rare and noble fur to be worthy of Miss Li.

"No need. I just wear it at home, and this rabbit fur is just right. But in terms of color, I hope it is a solid color. If you see it, please keep it for me." Li Xiaohan said. Although rabbits have a lot of hair, most of them are gray rabbits, and there are slightly less white rabbits.

"Okay. Miss Li, we will keep it for you until then. When we get the goods, let the brothers bring them to you." Ma Wu replied neatly.

Now that everyone is getting acquainted with each other, I see that Li Xiaohan usually wears cotton and has very few hair accessories, so I know that Li Xiaohan doesn't like these luxurious and wealthy things.

Li Xiaohan: No, I also like to play dress-up shows, but fancy clothes are really not suitable for work. Cotton clothes are more comfortable.

"Is there anything else Miss Li wants?" Ma Wu asked again. Now that the Qing Gang's business is doing better and better, they have hooked up with Li Xiaohan, and then they have a relationship with Zhang Fu. Now, the Qing Gang, It is developing rapidly, you can tell by looking at the layout and purchase of this shop in Fucheng.

Li Xiaohan glanced around. There were a lot of things, but they were not what she wanted. "No need. I'll leave first. You continue to work."

"Hey." Ma Wu responded. It's a pity that their gang leader is not here.

After leaving Qinggang's shop, Li Xiaohan turned into the grocery store in the alley. The shop owner saw her coming on horseback. Thinking that a big business was coming, he hurriedly came up to greet her and said, "Girl, do you want anything?"

"Do you have an abacus? Give me five of the cheapest abacus." Li Xiaohan said.

"Girl, you want...the cheapest one?" This doesn't look like a poor person, and besides, a poor person doesn't need five.

"right."

The shop owner was sure that he had heard wrongly and was very surprised. However, no matter how small a business was, it was still a business. He took out the five cheapest abacus in the shop, "totaling a total of fifteen copper coins."

"Here." Li Xiaohan took out fifteen cents, settled the bill readily, and took away the abacus.

After leaving the grocery store, Li Xiaohan looked around. It seemed a bit unreasonable not to visit Zhang Fu when he came to Fucheng. Also, I wonder if there is any problem with the Fu Ya Bai Shi?

"Old Uncle Zhong, let's go to the government office first, and then go to Tongfu Restaurant to see if your son-in-law is there. If not, we will go back to Pingshan Village. Old Uncle Zhong, do you have anything to do? ? If so, we'll go home after doing it."

"Miss Li, why don't we go to Tongfu Restaurant first? If the second young master comes to see you for anything, it's just right for us to come back from the government office." Old Uncle Zhong suggested.

The young master may not be in the government office or Tongfu Restaurant, but when Miss Li comes to Fucheng, the young master will definitely come over no matter what he is busy with. It's just that you have to notify the young master first.

"That's OK." Then let's take a detour to Tongfu Restaurant and then go to Fucheng.

When we went to Tongfu Restaurant, Zhang Fu was not there, so he went to the government office. There was nothing that Li Xiaohan needed to deal with in the government office. However, everyone was very happy to see Li Xiaohan. Li Xiaohan Han took a look at the purchase of pewter, and there was nothing to pay attention to before returning to Tongfu Restaurant.

"Miss Li, please sit down first. We have sent someone to inform the second young master and he will be here soon." The shopkeeper said enthusiastically.

The Second Young Master had previously personally come to warn him that once there was any news from Miss Li, he would immediately send someone to deliver a letter to him. Now that Miss Li has come to Fucheng, if he had not kept Miss Li, he always had a premonition that something bad would happen in his shopkeeper evaluation this year.

Thinking of this, the shopkeeper became even more enthusiastic and personally came out to lead the way, "I wonder what Miss Li likes to eat. We have prepared a private room, tea and snacks. What else does Miss Li need?"

A few people quickly came to the private room and sat down. The shopkeeper had already prepared everything. Li Xiaohan asked slightly embarrassed, "I wonder how the shopkeeper's abacus is going? I would like to ask for advice."

"Ah..." The shopkeeper was stunned for a moment, and then he came to his senses, "It's okay, it's okay, I know a thing or two."

Among the shopkeepers in Dingcheng, he is definitely in the top three.

"That's just right. I wonder if the shopkeeper can give me a demonstration. If it's difficult, just refuse." Li Xiaohan said with a little embarrassment.

In her previous life, she had studied abacus mental arithmetic in an extracurricular training class for several years. In the past, most of the arithmetic was done mentally. However, if she wanted to teach people now, she must teach them according to the methods of this era.

She doesn't have a competitive relationship with the shopkeeper. I wonder if it's a taboo to ask about a simple abacus method?

The shopkeeper laughed. She wasn't asking him how to do the accounting. She was just demonstrating his abacus. Could it be that Miss Li could compete with him to be the shopkeeper of Tongfu Restaurant? "Of course there is no problem."

"What's wrong?" As soon as the shopkeeper finished speaking, Zhang Fu opened the door and came in.

I haven't seen him for more than ten days, and Zhang Fu still looks like the noble young man with a clear breeze and bright moon.

Qingzhu, who only followed Zhang Fu, stood guard outside the door with a slightly red face and a slightly unsteady breath.

"Why are you like this?" Old Uncle Zhong couldn't stand seeing Qingzhu like this, and his eyes were questioning.

"Old Uncle Zhong, follow the young master and come here quickly. He didn't recover for a while. Wait for me for a quarter of an hour." Qingzhu begged for mercy.

Old Uncle Zhong looked away.

Li Xiaohan naturally did not have the eyesight and ears of old Uncle Zhong, so he saw Zhang Fu sitting down gracefully in front of him and pouring a cup of tea for the two of them.

"Second Young Master, it was Miss Li who asked me if I could demonstrate how to make an abacus." The shopkeeper explained with a smile.

"Oh, that's it. You go down first." Zhang Fu smiled and handed the tea cup to Li Xiaohan, and Fang asked, "Why do you want to learn an abacus? I didn't think you used it before."

"I went back to the village. I was going to teach some little girls how to do it, so I just wanted to take a look."

"Oh, let me see." Since he was teaching a little girl, Li Xiaohan must have made preparations.

Li Xiaohan picked up an abacus from the side and handed it to Zhang Fu. Zhang Fu took it and was stunned for a moment. This was the first time he had seen such a rough abacus.

But I soon figured out Li Xiaohan's intention: with such a cheap abacus, the girls in the village would feel more at ease.

"Miss Li, this abacus is very good." Zhang Fu stretched out his slender fingers and said while fiddling with the abacus.

Like jade but not jade, the slender, slender but powerful fingers fiddled with the abacus beads one by one, adding a layer of texture to the poor-quality abacus worth three cents. However, occasionally, when the fingers flew around, the beads were exposed. The scars looked very dazzling, "Why did you hurt your hand?"

This scar is so small that it doesn't look like a trauma, but rather like it was caused by oneself.

Zhang Fu paused for a moment without raising his head. Li Xiaohan only saw the corners of Zhang Fu's mouth raised slightly, and the thick black eyelashes covering his eyes. He felt that the tone of his answer was very gentle, "Ah, I have been studying recently. A little new thing, I accidentally hurt my hand."

Before Li Xiaohan could continue to ask, Zhang Fu had already skipped the topic, "The abacus adds up one by one, five by one to four, nine by one and one..."

Li Xiaohan quickly put his mind away.

In the middle of the afternoon, after eating snacks and drinking tea, the two finally finished teaching the abacus - Li Xiaohan had the foundation of abacus in previous lives, and Zhang Fu thought she had learned it from Li Xiandong or others. , I just learned it piecemeal, and now I can learn it so fast.

Unfortunately, I learned too quickly.

Outside the city, the setting sun shines warmly.

"Although it is said to be the beginning of winter, it still feels like it will be a little colder than before this year. You should pay more attention." Li Xiaohan reminded.

Cold winter can have too many impacts. For example, some elderly people who have been sick for a long time may easily not survive the winter. Even with immense wealth and power, sometimes one cannot escape death.

"I understand." Zhang Fu responded. In the past, Li Xiaohan was worried about the war in winter. "Don't worry, the food, grass and military supplies are all ready as in previous years."

Li Xiaohan's expression was complicated and difficult to understand. In the end, the idea of saving herself still prevailed: she could not tell people in a feudal monarchy country that your emperor would not survive this winter.

A secret will no longer be a secret as long as the second person knows it.

Her life cannot be in the hands of others.

So Li Xiaohan smiled hard and said, "Then send it here. I'll go back first."

"Yeah. Be careful all the way."

Why do you look so sad.

Zhang Fu sat on the horse and watched Li Xiaohan and Old Uncle Zhong gallop away, and finally disappeared.

The sunset fell on him at dusk, and even his shadow brought doubts.

Only the unfinished hairpin on the chest was slightly hot.

=== Chapter === 132

When Li Xiaohan returned home from Fucheng, he found that the clan leader was already at his home.

"You're back. The clan leader has been waiting for you in the main room for a while." Wang came up to greet you, took the things, and quietly informed Li Xiaohan.

"Mom, help me put the things away. I'll sort them out later. Ask Aunt He to serve us some hot milk tea." Li Xiaohan said with a smile. There was a cold wind blowing all the way, and she wanted to drink something warm.

"Okay, you go." Seeing that Li Xiaohan was not worried, Wang was relieved.

Li Xiaohan walked towards the clan leader, "Why are you waiting for me at home? It's taking so much time. Just tell me and I'll come back and go to the clan leader's house."

"It's okay, I expected you to be back soon." In fact, the time expected by the patriarch was about the same, but he didn't expect that Li Xiaohan was studying abacus in Fucheng, so he was a little late, but the patriarch didn't mind very much. That's it , "It just so happens that I can take a look at what you guys have created this time."

Li Xiaohan followed the patriarch's gaze and saw that it was the blackboard where they learned to read. The column on the left side of the blackboard is everyone's name, and today's content on the right side is very obvious with white text on a black background and has not been wiped clean.

In the past, when they came in the morning, they would check over what they learned yesterday to see if they had made any mistakes or omissions after the night. If they did, they would quickly correct them and wait until Li Xiaohan came out. Wipe it clean so you can write new content easily.

"What did the patriarch see?" Li Xiaohan asked with a smile and threw the ball back.

"This board is very practical." The clan leader sighed.

"Yes, it's very cheap and convenient." Li Xiaohan praised the board. How wonderful the blackboard is, the crystallization of thousands of years of wisdom, which played a very good role in literacy literacy in the early years of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

Patriarch Li paused for a moment, then Fang Shen said carefully, "What do you think?"

"Just think about what you saw. It didn't cost anything and didn't delay anything. Just get on with it." Li Xiaohan also replied seriously.

Patriarch Li was silent for a long time, "It works. Then let's keep doing this for now. The clan can't support two clan schools. Since you have the intention to do such a good thing, then you should be a little more aggrieved and work harder for those who can." stop."

After a pause, he added, "If you need anything, just come to me."

Li Xiaohan immediately answered, "That's what you said, patriarch. If there are some short-sighted parents who insist on pulling my daughter back, you have to shoulder this responsibility."

Although it is not available yet, there is no guarantee that it will not be available in the future. If it does happen, after all, Li Xiaohan is younger and younger, so it would be most suitable for Patriarch Li to come forward.

"Sure." The clan leader has been involved in clan affairs for many years. How could he not know that these family matters are the most irritating and difficult to mediate? However, he still agreed and put forward a condition, "What are you doing? Give it to the clan school." Make some too?"

Li Xiaohan raised his head and looked at the clan leader. He had a good vision, but he said, "Oh, the blackboard and chalk, the girls helped to make them. Just wait a few days. It takes a lot of effort. This is not free. I want it." One copy each of the Three-Character Classic of Hundred Family Surnames and the Sutra of Calculation."

"Okay." The clan leader has no doubt that he has it. This blackboard chalk should not be simple at all. The Three-Character Classic of Hundreds of Family Surnames is used to calculate the scriptures. Just give it to Deyou and the others and let Deyou and the others copy another one.

The two parties reached an agreement, and Patriarch Li left satisfied.

In the evening, after the family had dinner, Li Xiaohan began to distribute the things bought from Fucheng.

"What did the patriarch want to say to you?" Wang asked curiously as she watched Li Xiaohan open the big package he brought back from Fucheng.

"It's just that other girls come over to learn calligraphy during the day."

"The clan leader objects?" Wang was worried.

"No objection. I saw that he agreed in his heart. It's just that this matter is difficult to use in the name of the clan. The money is not enough and the people are difficult to deal with. The clan leader probably wants me to test the waters first. Shallow." Li Xiaohan said.

Patriarch Li's worry is actually very reasonable. It is not just a matter of money. In fact, the money spent now is very small. It is a matter of whether a family can have a spare labor force. It is a matter of everyone's consciousness to learn these things. Useless questions.

"Oh." Wang seemed to understand, but she only thought about one thing, "What do you think?"

"I can do it. Let's go ahead and do as much as you can." Li Xiaohan turned around and asked, "Mom, do you want to learn? If you want to learn, come together. I'll start teaching you abacus tomorrow. ."

"At my age, I don't have time to act like a little girl." Wang said sheepishly.

"You care so much, but our family is missing more than an hour of your time? My father won't let you come? Not even. You can come if you want, don't say anything else."

"Then...then I will come together?" Wang said hesitantly.

"Come on, let's go together." Li Xiaohan smiled and said, "Here, look, I bought five abacus today."

"Let me take a look." Mrs. Wang took it and took a closer look. She didn't feel that the three cents worth of money were crude at all. "This is really beautiful. Is this what you went to Fucheng to buy today?"

"I also bought other things. Mom, this is the facial butter I bought for you. It's cold, so it's good to use it. There's also hand grease, which can prevent chilblains." Now that we've gone to Rouge Hall, It's impossible to just buy a box of pasta, and Li Xiaohan doesn't lack this little money now.

Unexpectedly, Wang Shique didn't even raise his head, "Just leave it for now. I'll take it away later."

Li Xiaohan just watched Mrs. Wang turning the five abacus over and over - what's so interesting about the five identical abacus? They are worth looking at, they are not all the same.

So, the next day, Wang joined their team.

Later, Mrs. Zhao and Mr. Ma also came to join in the fun.

Later, more young ladies from the neighbors joined in, and the primary school became more and more lively. The main hall of the Li family could no longer accommodate so many people.

One day in October, Li Xiaohan felt very cold in his sleep. When he opened his eyes, the world was still dark, and then he heard a faint voice.

"Daddy, why did it suddenly get cold today? What will happen to the crops in the fields?" This was Wang's panicked voice, floating in the silent night sky.

A deeper layer of coldness and trembling rose from his heart, and Li Xiaohan immediately woke up. In an agricultural society, sudden cold weather not only easily injures people, but also easily kills plants.

At this moment, the most dangerous thing exposed in the fields is winter wheat, one of the staple crops of this season.

Li Xiaohan climbed up in a hurry and opened the door in the dark. Li Xiandong and Wang had already lit a brazier in the main room, and the flickering firelight illuminated the panic and worry on their faces.

"Dad, Mom."

"Why are you up... You little melon, go back and put on your clothes quickly, or you may get frozen. Why are you so ignorant?" Wang said in a loud voice, already standing up to think. Push Li Xiaohan into the house.

Only then did Li Xiaohan feel that it was so cold that the hairs all over his body stood up.

Without Wang pushing her back, she ran back to the room in a few steps, slammed the door, lit the candle in the dark, and opened the suitcase.

The candles are authentic white wax. The production of white wax has increased significantly this year. Zhang Fu said that he would bring some back to Li Xiaohan no matter what. Li Xiaohan was not very willing to use it on weekdays, but now he can't take care of it.

After rummaging around to find a thick cotton coat, Li Xiaohan quickly wrapped himself tightly before running out of the room again.

Li Xiandong and Mrs. Wang were still sitting by the brazier. When they saw Li Xiaohan wearing a cotton-padded coat, Ms. Wang stretched out her hand to explore the thickness of the cotton-padded coat, then she didn't say anything.

"Dad, how are you now? What should I do?" Li Xiaohan asked worriedly.

Most of the methods she knows about preventing frost damage to forest seedlings are not applicable at all. Neither greenhouses nor spraying of brassinoids can achieve this.

Li Xiandong was silent for a moment, and answered with a voice like a razor blade scraping out of his throat, "It got cold early and suddenly this year, and the antifreeze water in the wheat fields has not been poured yet. We have to wait until dawn. Well, let's see what happens."

Li Xiandong's expression was similar to that of when he discovered that landowner Zhang's son had sown his winter wheat late, and all the wheat seedlings on the entire ten acres of land had froze to death.

However, there were only ten acres back then, and now all the fields are basically unprepared.

Li Xiaohan looked at the sky. It was still pitch black with no stars at all. She couldn't tell what time it was.

"Mom, what time is it now?" Li Xiaohan asked.

"It must be the beginning of the Yin period." Mrs. Wang raised her eyes to look at the sky.

Li Xiaohan did some math in his mind and found that it was around three o'clock in the morning.

The firelight flickered, and the occasional crackle of firewood broke the deathly silence.

"Mom and dad, please go back to the house and lie down first. It will be dark for a while. You have to be energetic before you can work during the day."

Li Xiaohan persuaded him twice, and Li Xiandong looked at the sky without giving up. It was indeed dark. Finally, he stood up with heavy steps and extinguished the brazier.

Although Li Xiaohan persuaded Li Xiandong and Wang to go back to their room, she herself was still lying on the kang, not asleep.

This obvious sudden cold wave came in the middle of the night and interrupted everyone's rhythm.

Li Xiaohan felt panicked when she thought about the large number of crops in the fields that had not yet been protected from freezing. The expression on the face of Li Xiandong, an old farmer, made her feel quite bad.

During the drought in spring and summer, although they had worked hard in advance to take various drought prevention measures, they also applied to the court for tax exemptions and alleviated the food crisis through trade with Jiangnan.

However, private grain reserves are still affected to a certain extent. Most people are tightening their belts and waiting for next spring. Now, there is another freeze, and no one knows how big the impact will be.

In panic, Li Xiaohan dispersed again. Generally, when a cold wave hits, it will be in large areas from north to south. What about places further north than here?

OK.

And what can't be said, when will the emperor die? Li Xiaohan only knew that it was this winter, but he really couldn't remember the specific day.

There are external influences brought by the weather and threats from foreign nations, and internal turmoil in the power class brought about by the change of rulers.

It turns out that natural and man-made disasters really go hand in hand.

Li Xiaohan only felt that his head was in a mess, and nothing he was turning over and over had a solution.

Sometime later, the door next to him was pushed open, and Li Xiaohan heard the careful footsteps of Wang and Li Xiandong. Then one walked into the kitchen, the other walked into the tool room, and finally They met again in the kitchen, where there was the sound of pots and pans clinking together, and the sound of repairing hoes and other tools and iron tools being hammered.

Li Xiaohan turned around and put on his cotton-padded clothes and opened the door. It's still dark outside the door, but it's a little brighter than before.

Li Xiaohan helped Wang, and after breakfast, Wang picked up the sleeping Li Xiaoshuang on her back, and the family of four went out - Aunt He just happened to go home and said that her grand-in-law's son was looking at her. Let her go back and help Zhang Yan.

After leaving the door and walking into the fields outside the village, I met some villagers walking out together. Everyone was no longer in the mood to talk at this moment, and came to the field in silence all the way.

The wheat seedlings in the ground still look green and green at the moment. Apart from being a little rusty, they look the same. But even a layman like Li Xiaohan knew that it was just that the consequences of freezing damage had not yet had time to show up immediately.

"The patriarch. The patriarch..."

Suddenly, the crowd gradually remembered the voice calling the patriarch.

"The areas far from the water source will be covered with soil immediately, and the areas close to the water source will be prepared. I will go find the village leader to plant water-frozen seedlings." The voice of the patriarch came from the front, and he could vaguely see the patriarch walking back to the village wearing cotton padded clothes. , the clan leader has actually inspected it once.

"Dad, what should I do?"

"Our wheat field is far away from the water source, and we can't wait for the water to come. Why do we need to cover the wheat seedlings with dry soil as soon as possible, so that only one third is exposed?" Li Xiandong looked around and said, "Go to the pepper field. Dig in the dirt."

This soil is not dug casually, it must be clean soil without any crop seedlings.

Sure enough, Li Xiaohan vaguely heard a voice shouting, "Go dig the cotton field." "Go dig the pepper field."

When they arrived at the pepper field, Mrs. Wang put Li Xiaoshuang down on her back, wrapped it in a cotton quilt and put it in a large dustpan. At this time, she didn't care about being too delicate.

After placing Li Xiaoshuang, Wang picked up the hoe and started working with Li Xiandong and Li Xiaohan.

Now is the time to compete with the sky, and all those who can move must move.

=== Chapter === 133

Tired from the mechanical work of hoeing and loosening the soil, Li Xiaohan felt that he was only working instinctively.

About noon, I vaguely heard someone cheering loudly in front of me, "The water is coming. The water is coming."

But it was too far away. The three members of the Li family followed the sound and looked over, unable to see whether there was any water in the ditch ahead.

After watching for a while, Li Xiandong continued to work with his head down, and said in a low voice, "Our home is in a remote area, so we won't be here so soon. Mother, please take Xiaoshuang back to cook first, and then just bring the food over to us." "

Wang turned her head and took a look, "Why don't I continue and Xiaohan take Xiaoshuang back?"

"I can't. I can't take Xiaoshuang with me. Mom, please go back first." Li Xiaohan refused.

Li Xiaoshuang is now one year old. First she woke up in a dustpan, and then was trapped in a basket. She was very impatient, cried several times, and was coaxed several times by Mrs. Wang.

Li Xiaohan would rather work than take care of this baby.

Xu Shi saw that Li Xiaohan's expression did not look like humility, so Wang could only carry Li Xiaoshuang on her back and go home to cook as soon as possible - but Aunt He took three consecutive days off, saying it was difficult to go home. Take a trip and take the opportunity to get everything done. Otherwise, there can be one more person to help.

Wang was upset, but her movements were not slow at all. Soon, only Li Xiandong and Li Xiaohan were left in the field.

"Xiaohan, if you are tired, take a rest first." Li Xiandong said, but he was not ready to rest.

According to experience, it will only get colder day by day. If the wheat seedlings are covered with dry soil one day earlier, the wheat seedlings will suffer less frostbite, and the harvest next year will be very different.

"It's okay, dad, keep doing it."

Although Li Xiaohan doesn't know much about traditional agricultural planting of wheat to protect against cold and frost, the principle of plants is the same. When the cold wave comes, the earlier the warm-keeping measures are taken, the less damage the plants will suffer. Sometimes, if you miss that opportunity, you can't get it back no matter how hard you try later.

The two father and daughter worked hard again.

"Xiaohan."

"Patriarch, why are you here?" Li Xiaohan raised his head when he heard the voice, only to find that the patriarch had walked in front of him at some point.

Seeing the two people immersed in work and looking miserable, Patriarch Li didn't know what to say for a moment - according to Li Xiaohan's contribution to the clan, his family should be the first batch of people who can use water to freeze the seedlings. However, the location of Li Xiandong's farmland is not very good, far away from the water source.

In times of famine, whether it is drought, freeze or insect disaster, the first field to be protected is always the best field, so that we can preserve as much harvest as possible.

With a sigh in his heart, Patriarch Li asked, "Where is the old Uncle Zhong who has been following you?"

"Going to Fucheng to spread the news." Li Xiaohan replied in confusion, what do you want from old Uncle Zhong?

Speaking of Cao Cao, Cao Cao arrived and watched from a distance a group of people and horses galloping from a distance, and then stopped in front of Li Xiaohan.

"Old Uncle Zhong?" Li Xiaohan was full of questions.

When he went back, old Uncle Zhong was alone. What kind of people did he bring when he came back, and he also brought his own hoes?

"Miss Li, these are the Mai Kes in the city. The Second Young Master ordered them to follow me back. Just tell them to work."

Mai Ke is a person who goes to the market during the wheat season to help cut wheat to supplement the family income. Generally speaking, they are mostly farmers from other areas whose wheat matures at different times, but there are also local farmers with less farmland or able-bodied helpers in the city.

"Dad, come here. You tell them to work." The dozen or so microphones brought back by Zhang Fu were so timely and useful that Li Xiaohan couldn't suppress the joy in his voice.

"Hey. Come with me, now we have to cover the soil to protect the seedlings." Li Xiandong waved his hands, finally had a smile on his face, and began to assign people to work.

Seeing this, Patriarch Li felt relieved. He looked at these Mai Kes twice and then left. He also has many things to be busy with, including his own family and his clan.

Seeing Li Xiandong leading people to work, Patriarch Li also left. Li Xiaohan continued to ask, "Old Uncle Zhong, how is the city?"

"Young master is very busy. This cold snap came too suddenly, and many things were not prepared." Old Uncle Zhong said, "But as you said, use straw and wheat straw to tie the ash seedlings to the trunk. The master also passed the order on how to use trees to keep warm, and it was carried out immediately. I also went to the government office to pass on the message."

"The master also asked, does the ash insect species on the tree have any influence? Is there no way to do it?" Old Uncle Zhong asked again.

Li Xiaohan's face was quite heavy and helpless, "Yes, it is affected, but there is no way."

What can be done about the insect seeds growing on trees? At this time, if you pick them and put them in the house, only one will die.

"Young Master said, he also guessed it, otherwise you would not have said this. Young Master also asked you not to worry, since this white wax insect has been able to survive in the wild and has not become extinct. I think it will come this day this year. Although the anger has an impact, we can still get through it." Old Uncle Zhong said.

"Yeah. I understand." Li Xiaohan also understood this truth, but he couldn't help but worry.

After passing the message, Old Uncle Zhong looked at it, picked up the hoe that Wang had put aside, and joined the crowd.

"Old Uncle Zhong, you are not needed." During this time, Li Xiaohan also realized that Old Uncle Zhong should be a well-known senior in the General's Mansion. At least the four young men around Zhang Fu were very respectful to Old Uncle Zhong. At first, he said that he would only ask old Uncle Zhong to come over to protect him, but now he even does farm work.

"It doesn't matter. I was born in a farmer's family when I was young, but later I became a soldier. These crops, a year's rations, are the most important thing here." Old Uncle Zhong didn't even look back. The gesture of swinging the hoe is quite skillful.

Li Xiaohan thought for a while, put down the hoe and rushed home to prepare meals with Mr. Wang - these Mai Kes came from the city and probably only had one breakfast. Now they are doing hard work, and their wages are not calculated. Your family must at least provide enough food for people.

When Mrs. Wang heard that Old Uncle Zhong had brought back a dozen Mai Ke, she felt relieved - it was really at this time that she felt that her family was small.

Hearing that it was Zhang Fu who sent him here, Mrs. Wang wished she could burn a few sticks of incense for Zhang Fu in front of the Buddha.

"Mom, it's cold and there are many people. Let's make a pepper stew and add a pot of brown rice." Li Xiaohan looked at the things in the kitchen and said.

In fact, the pepper stew is to put a piece of pepper base, melt it, add slices of bacon, various kinds of tofu and dried tofu, add radish and green vegetables, and finally stew it in a big pot. The ingredients are not restricted. You can put whatever you want. In the end, all kinds of flavors are mixed together, and there are few unpalatable ones. People in Pingshan Village like this way of eating the most.

"Okay, this is good. It's cold, so it's good to eat this." Wang nodded in agreement.

The two mother and daughter began to wash and chop vegetables. About half an hour later, Aunt He came back early.

"I saw that it was suddenly cold today. I was afraid that there was a lot of work at home and that you and your wife would not be able to handle it, so I came back quickly." Aunt He came back carrying a big baggage, which contained... Her change of winter clothes.

"Aunt He, you came back just in time. You have to prepare meals for a dozen people." When Li Xiaohan saw Aunt He, it was like seeing a relative.

"My eldest girl, your hands are meant for writing, how can you touch this cold water for washing vegetables? I'll come, I'll come, you go and light the fire." Aunt He casually put the bundle into the room. Throw it away and run over immediately.

Li Xiaohan was stunned for a moment. In the past, she often washed vegetables in winter, using hot water at most. But now, writers cannot touch cold water.

Did Aunt He have any misunderstanding?

Aunt He didn't misunderstand. She saw that the old boy next door in her city couldn't read as many words as the older girls. He would say all day long that my hands are for writing. , how can you do these common things?

The big girl's hands should also be cherished. Forget about lighting a fire. Washing vegetables with cold water is absolutely impossible. If you hurt your hands, writing will not be beautiful. However, "How to make ten How many people have food to eat? Are there guests at home?"

"Oh, no, there are more than a dozen Mai Ke who came to help cover the fields and protect the seedlings."

"Oh, so it's like this. That's great. Why did it freeze without warning?"

Although Mrs. He's family does not have any land, it is even more difficult for them as city dwellers to buy food when the surrounding farmers are not harvesting.

"Auntie, how is the situation in the city?" Li Xiaohan asked.

"Oh, it's not that good." Aunt He sighed, "When I came out, I heard that two old homeless people froze to death in the city."

"How come people are freezing to death?" Wang was shocked.

"I'm old, I'm in pain, there's no one around me, and I don't have any clothes to keep out the cold. It's normal if I can't survive it." Aunt He sighed, "It happens every year, but it's just It's a little early this year."

Even a thousand years later, there will still be old homeless people who have lost their labor force, not to mention today's era of underdeveloped productivity.

For a moment, the kitchen fell silent.

"If you ask me, eldest lady, you Li clan are living better than many people in the city." Aunt He sighed, "I think your clan is united and capable of doing things. The old, young, sick and weak are all properly accommodated. , better than many wealthy families."

If it weren't for Aunt He's family having no girls of the right age, Aunt He would really want to marry her daughter here.

No, although her family doesn't have it, her sister-in-law does. Aunt He thought about the time she went back to help with the marriage. It was obvious that her sister-in-law did not like the man. He was poor, stingy, and had an air of airs. He was really not a man he wanted to live with.

Li Xiaohan didn't know that Aunt He's mind had already wandered away.

It's just that what Aunt He said about the situation in the city made her not optimistic.

For a moment, everyone in the kitchen was thinking, stopped talking, and quickly prepared lunch.

Mai Ke, who came from the city, was very satisfied with this meal. Although it was eaten in the fields on a very cold day, straw was used for both the rice and the vegetable pots. We surrounded it tightly, and when we opened it in the ground, it was still steaming.

And this dish also has meat, as well as the slightly spicy pepper base, which makes your whole body warm when you eat it on this cold day - not everyone in Fucheng is like that. Those who can afford the sweet pepper base, those who work as Mai Ke, obviously cannot afford to eat it often. Now I'm lucky enough to have a meal at this owner's house. It's really delicious. It's perfect for eating in winter.

After eating the lunch meal, the Mai Kes were even more willing to work harder.

At dusk and sunset, Li Xiaohan asked Li Xiandong, "Dad, how are you doing? How long does it take to finish?"

"I've done most of the work today. At this rate, I can finish it tomorrow morning." Li Xiandong breathed a sigh of relief. If it hadn't been dark and unsafe to see clearly, he would have wanted to work all night. But fortunately there is only a little left.

"Then if you stay tonight, you have to arrange a place for them to stay."

During the wheat harvest, Mai Ke would sleep in the wheat fields, but that was the wheat harvest day in June, and now it is October. There are no quilts. At least there must be a four-sided shield. Windy place.

"We can't live in our house." Li Xiandong said worriedly.

Although their house is large, there are too many things in it. It's not convenient to enter the house for the second time. Most of the Li family are women, and even old Uncle Zhong lives in the first house. It's even more inconvenient for this group of Mai guests.

"Don't worry, we can find a place." Li Xiaohan said.

Sure enough, after Li Xiaohan returned, he didn't know what to say, but all the dozen or so Mai Kes were assigned to the families next to Li Xiaohan, especially Li Gui's family, which occupied half of the people.

Then, after finishing the work at Li Xiaohan's house the next morning, I don't know what Li Guihou and others told these Mai Ke. Anyway, the Mai Ke who lives in whose house will continue to stay. Home work is done.

At this time, some slow people reacted. No wonder neighbors are so important.

After about four days of hard work, all the wheat seedlings in Pingshan Village finally took anti-freezing measures. In fact, the farther back they went, the colder they became. In the end, the villagers lit torches almost from morning to night. Only by working hard can we save the seedlings in the fields.

After Li Xiandong finished his own work, he went to Li Shengli's house with a hoe to help. Even Li Xiaohan went to help cook and take care of the children. There was no way, all the women and children fell to the ground, leaving only those who needed help. Everything was thrown to Li Hehua, and Li Xiaohan had to go to support.

Therefore, almost until the whole village was finished, Li Xiaohan could breathe a sigh of relief.

She thought the situation couldn't get worse. After all, she had always known the worst news.

However, half a month later, Li Xinhe, who returned from Xiu Mu, brought her shocking news: "The Beizhou tribe went south and robbed three counties in Liaodong."

The Beizhou tribe is directly north of the border of the Wei Dynasty. If the Beizhou tribe goes south, it will form a northwest flank attack with the Xitai and the Wei Dynasty.

Once Liaodong Prefecture cannot resist, Dingcheng will be the second great Wei Prefecture city going south from Beizhou.

"Where did you get the news? Is it true?" Li Xiaohan asked urgently.

"There are students in the academy whose families are merchants. I heard that the trade route over there has been cut off." Li Xinhe said, "I can't guarantee whether it is true or not, so I came back to tell you."

Only you can get the latest and most authentic news from Mr. Zhang.

"I want to go to Fucheng."

=== Chapter === 134

Fucheng, Qingming Alley.

In Fucheng, Li Xiaohan wanted to ask Zhang Fu to talk about something, but he didn't want anyone to know about it, so his first choice was Qingming Alley.

After all, being hidden in the city, no one would have thought that Zhang Fu actually had a stronghold here.

"Over in Liaodong, the latest news we got is that the Liaodong Protectorate issued three emergency reports on military intelligence." Zhang Fu's voice was quite calm.

However, after not seeing each other for more than half a month, Zhang Fu actually lost a layer of weight, and his facial features became more distinct. Come to think of it, this past half month must not have been easy.

"What happened to the court?" Now, Li Xiaohan is a little calmer than when he just learned the news.

"The imperial court ordered us to defend to the death." Zhang Fu sighed.

"What about the others? How well prepared are the imperial armaments? When do you plan to send troops to support?" Li Xiaohan was puzzled. There is still time to defend, right? Generally speaking, the imperial court will prepare to send troops to support at the same time, but it will be too late for a while.

"There is no news at all." Even Li Xiaohan, a layman among laymen, knew that marching and fighting could not be just a matter of defense. However, all the ministers in the imperial court could not come up with an idea.

"Not at all?" Li Xiaohan was so shocked that the water in the teacup in his hand swayed slightly.

"Secret message from the capital, His Majesty has been in poor health recently, and is unable to support even the usual court meetings. Now he is the superintendent of the country, but the Taisun is not good at martial arts. The various factions in the court have their own opinions. , Taisun was unable to make a decision for the moment." Zhang Fu explained.

Li Xiaohan frowned. At this time, Taisun was still indecisive, but he really lacked the decisiveness that a wise king should have.

However, at this time, it was not her turn to comment.

"In your opinion, how is the situation in Liaodong? Can it be defended?"

"The Liaodong Protectorate has 37,000 elite soldiers. The majority of the protector is His Majesty, the old Chiang Han Ke, who has rich combat experience. Logically speaking, with the convenient location, it will not be a problem to defend Liaodong. The ministers in the DPRK probably think so too, so That's why I haven't made a decision yet."

Although he was very confident, Zhang Fu frowned slightly, "But there is a very strange situation. The latest news from Liaodong was three days ago. According to the characteristics of the Beizhou clan, they all robbed with fast horses. If we are weak, we will rob, if we are strong, we will retreat, and we will not stay in one city for too long. Now it has become a stalemate, I don't know why."

Zhang Fu said he didn't know why, and Li Xiaohan didn't even know. From what she knew about the plot of the original book, Lin Heng had not even passed the examination and was still fighting wits with the Lin family. Sometimes, knowing less is also a kind of happiness.

"Then what should we do?" Li Xiaohan asked.

The imperial court has yet to come up with any countermeasures, but Dingcheng cannot wait. After all, the north of Dingcheng is connected to Liaodong. Once Beizhou breaks through Liaodong's southeast, Dingcheng will face the possibility of being attacked from the northwest.

"The prince has ordered to prepare various military supplies, and his subordinates are also on the alert and dare not relax. However, due to this cold wave, the canals have begun to freeze, making it very inconvenient for sailing in the south of the Yangtze River. By the way, you came at the right time today. The frontline requires increasing the supply of alcohol. I have calculated that the existing raw wine we have on the road should not be used to make pepper wine, but should be completely purified into alcohol."

"I understand." Li Xiaohan could understand the wartime strategy.

"In addition, there is news for you. You should prepare in advance. This winter's corvee is expected to be announced soon. The most important thing is to build the city wall and transport supplies. There is no need for civilians to go to the battlefield for the time being."

This news touched Li Xiaohan's heart more than the battle situation in Liaodong. After all, compared to Liaodong, which I have never been to and only heard about, corvee happens all around me.

Moreover, what does it mean that civilian men are temporarily not needed on the battlefield? Does this mean that at some point, civilian men will also need to go to the battlefield?

The war fell on him from the overall situation discussed on the paper, and Li Xiaohan's whole body began to become tense.

"Don't worry, it's just the worst case scenario. Now it seems that the most likely thing is to build the city wall." After all, in order to prepare for possible wars, the city wall must be built stronger.

Li Xiaohan looked at Zhang Fu and asked, "What are the specific regulations? Can money be used in lieu of corvee?"

"A household with one ding can use money to pay for the corvee. If a household has more than two ding, it can only serve as a corvee for one person. One ding and ten taels of silver can be used."

Li Xiaohan instinctively breathed a sigh of relief. He only had one male in his family, Li Xiandong, and he was not short of money, so there should be no problem.

However, when you think about the fact that a household with more than two children can only choose one person to do the labor with money, it is obvious that there is a shortage of people. Moreover, among ordinary people, how can so many people afford ten taels of silver?

Li Xiaohan frowned tightly, and after a while, she asked with difficulty, "Can I ask you a favor?"

"you say."

"Is there any way to send all the people in my village to serve in one place?" Li Xiaohan knew that this request was a bit excessive, but if the people in Pingshan Village could serve in the same place and take care of each other, The chance of accidents will be much less.

She knew that Patriarch Li had taken care of things in the past, but in this situation, it was unclear whether the previous relationship would work.

Zhang Fu originally thought that Li Xiaohan would make some excessive demands if he was in such a difficult situation, such as hoping for some special treatment, but he didn't expect that he just wanted to keep the villagers together.

"Okay, I'll send someone to tell you. Is there anything else you want?"

Li Xiaohan breathed a sigh of relief, thought for a while and continued, "I'm going to make a little more Tiger Balm. Do you have the materials here?"

"I'll ask Renhetang to bring the goods to you." Zhang Fu didn't ask what Li Xiaohan would use this for.

"Thank you very much." Li Xiaohan said.

"You're welcome." Zhang Fu lowered his head and looked at his hands, not knowing what he was thinking.

Compared with the last time they met, the small wounds on Zhang Fu's hands still increased unabated, and the new wounds and old wounds were added together. Zhang Fu shrank slightly and hid his hands in his sleeves.

Li Xiaohan had something on his mind and didn't notice anything strange about Zhang Fu.

Old Uncle Zhong had noticed it early and found a time to ask Qingzhu privately.

"What happened to Young Master's hand?"

"Old Uncle Zhong, don't ask me, I can't tell you." Qingzhu looked unyielding.

"What did I ask you? Young Master practices swordsmanship. Due to his congenital physical condition, he takes the fast and thin path. His two-hand skills require the most dexterity. Tell me, how did he make his hands like this? Do you still want to practice swordsmanship?" Old Uncle Zhong scolded, "You guys who are guards just watch and don't even try to persuade me."

"Oh, this." Qingzhu breathed a sigh of relief, thinking what he was asking, "Old Uncle Zhong, don't worry, this won't affect your sword practice. Besides, it will be fine after the New Year."

No matter how much we strive for perfection, we have to make it in December when Miss Li gets her hairpins, otherwise there will be nothing else to give as a gift.

"Let me believe you for once." Old Uncle Zhong said.

On the surface, this episode did not affect Zhang Fu and Li Xiaohan. Because they had too many things to do, after finishing talking, Zhang Fu left first, while Li Xiaohan stayed and waited. Renhetang Tiger Balm was shipped over.

Back in Pingshan Village, Li Xiaohan went straight to the patriarch's house.

Li Xinhe is still waiting for news from Li Xiaohan. There is no need to hide the situation in Liaodong from Patriarch Li, and the matter of corvee must be explained to Patriarch Li first.

Patriarch Li was silent. In such a situation, there was not much they, the common people, could do. The whole clan is here, let alone escaping from corvee.

On the contrary, Li Xinhe, who usually looks polite and polite, said with a harsh tone, "It is difficult to be a king, it is not easy to be a minister, and there is no fault in anyone who does nothing."

As soon as these words came out, Li Xiaohan couldn't help but look sideways.

"It is difficult to be a king, but it is not easy to be a minister." This is a famous sentence in "The Analects". It means that as the king of a country, it is really difficult to fulfill the bounden duty of the king; but as a minister, you must be loyal and fulfill your responsibilities. , it is not easy to do the duty of a minister.

This is a normal sentence, but in the end, the following sentence was added, "There is nothing wrong with doing nothing."

This sentence is combined with the context of the moment and Li Xinhe's expression. Translated from vernacular, it is very difficult, so don't do anything. Anyway, if you do more, you will make more mistakes. If you do less, you will make fewer mistakes. If you don't do anything, it will be good.

Full of irony and anger.

"You are going to die. I asked you to study, what did you read to me?" Patriarch Li jumped up and slapped Li Xinhe, "You are the only person to be elected, and you dare to give advice to the ministers of the DPRK. Do you think you are the official minister of the DPRK? Who do you think you are!"

Li Xinhe didn't evade or refute, he just resisted and allowed Patriarch Li to beat him.

Patriarch Li was even more angry.

Li Xiaohan raised his forehead, is this the rebellion of the literati?

=== Chapter === 135

In desperation, Li Xiaohan could only speak out to stop the two father and son from killing each other. Although it looked like it was Patriarch Li who was beating Li Xinhe, Patriarch Li was still proud of his son in his heart, and he still couldn't bear to do it. Cruel hand. The spiritual blow that Li Xinhe brought to Patriarch Li was much heavier.

"The patriarch, Brother Xinhe, is just talking about it in front of us. He must know the taboos in front of outsiders." Li Xiaohan advised.

Li Xinhe seemed to have something to say, and Li Xiaohan glared at him.

Okay, finally shut up.

Patriarch Li also found the steps to go down and stopped.

"I think the order to collect corvee will come down soon. I brought back some tiger balm from Renhetang. This medicine is easy to carry. Just apply it directly on the forehead, in front of the nose, on the sides of the ears and navel. It can be used for headaches in the early stages of cold. Fever and runny nose have certain preventive and therapeutic effects. Although the medicine cannot cure the disease, it is better than nothing."

In fact, although this tiger balm does not specifically cure any symptoms, just like its name, it can be used anywhere. I heard that in the early years of the founding of the People's Republic of China, this was one of the great folk medicines. In the 1970s and 1980s, old men and women had to apply it whenever they felt a little uncomfortable.

Although the prescription copied by Li Xiaohan was a bad one, the content of the secret recipe was not that sufficient. However, after going through the test of Li Xin and these imperial examination scholars, it was proved that its medicinal effect is still very effective in this era. Unexpectedly, it has gradually spread among the imperial examination scholars, and Renhetang is already mass-producing it.

Li Xiaohan considered that the weather is very cold now and it is easy to catch cold, but the conditions for doing corvee work are definitely inconvenient. It is probably difficult to see a doctor and take medicine. If you can apply this snake oil, it will be easier to get through if the disease is suppressed in the early stage. becomes severe.

"This is a good thing. I used it during the scientific examination. It refreshes my mind. My classmates also like it. When I feel uncomfortable, I just take it out and apply a little. It is very effective." Sure enough, Li Xinhe heard this, Promise immediately.

"That's it, let me take a look." Patriarch Li said.

Renhetang's Tiger Balm was packed in a ceramic box slightly smaller than a palm. Patriarch Li unscrewed the lid and saw a lump of yellowish paste inside. He tried to pick some with his fingernails and put it in front of his nose. smell it.

Ah sneeze.

The spicy and stimulating smell made the patriarch couldn't help but sneeze directly. He felt that the physical fatigue of the past few days was released with this big sneeze, and his mind became much clearer.

As the leader of a clan, he doesn't have much free time on weekdays. Especially when this wave of cold snap begins, we start to prevent the wheat from freezing, go to the village leader to fight for water and protect the fields, adjust everyone's water conflicts, and also care about whether the lonely elder in the clan can survive this cold winter smoothly. The clan leader is busy. He is incapable of doing anything else.

No matter what, the clan leader is almost fifty. My body felt a little unbearable.

Now that he had sneezed, Patriarch Li felt much better. Greedy for this feeling, Patriarch Li rubbed his forehead with the remaining medicine on his fingertips. Sure enough, the effect was very obvious.

"This thing is good. This thing is good." The patriarch was like those old men and women in later generations. He began to wish he had a box in his arms at all times, and took it out to wipe whenever he had a headache or fever.

"Clan leader, just use it as you can. It's all here. You can decide how to distribute it." Li Xiaohan said as he picked up a baggage.

"How much? I'll give it to you from the clan." Chief Li said quickly.

"Just think of it as something I gave to the clan, and there's no need to count the money."

Although the clan's public money seems to be abundant, it is used to support the elderly and the young. In this cold winter, Li Xiaohan heard Patriarch Li occasionally utter a few words and wanted to give some cotton to the lonely elderly people in the clan. Besides, this thing is for people who are doing corvee work, so if you can contribute a little, you can count it as a big effort. She has many channels to make money, and now she has no shortage of money.

"Okay. The clan will remember your kindness." Chief Li said happily. Since Li Xiaohan didn't want to accept this money, as the clan leader, he must clearly explain the source of this thing to his clan members.

In fact, Patriarch Li would say that this is quite good. It's enough money for twelve people to serve as slaves. Chief Li estimates that not many people can come up with this money. Most people in the village have to do corvee service. The hardship and fatigue of corvee service are unavoidable. Li Xiaohan's family has always been small, so this kind of love in times of crisis will be remembered by all conscientious members of the family.

Sunny days prepare for rainy days, Li Xiaohan's family is looking at everything as good as now, be a little sentimental now, there is no telling where the rewards will be in the future.

Two days later, the government's order for corvee service came down.

Not many families can come up with the money to serve twelve people. Even if you can get it, as a family, it is not good to give this quota to anyone. So, let's all serve.

"I've given that medicine to your head. Remember who has the medicine. If you feel uncomfortable, go to the one closest to you, you know." Before setting off, Patriarch Li warned.

"I understand, clan leader."

Those who set out at this moment still don't know how useful this snake oil is. Everyone just thought it was an ordinary corvee, but unexpectedly the weather was getting colder and colder. This corvée was so tiring, and one after another felt light-headed, runny noses and feverish.

At this time, someone remembered the instructions given by Chief Li before setting off. As soon as he wiped the tiger balm, he sneezed several times and felt that the coldness was much less. Apply a little more before going to bed at night, and the effect will be immediate the next day.

In the end, the family members responsible for bringing the medicine were as if they were carrying treasures. If the Li family hadn't been together and united, they might have been robbed.

These are all things that happened later. At this moment, Li Xiaohan stood in the crowd and watched the crowd go away.

Last night, Li Xianxi quietly knocked on the door of Li Xiandong's house, and then kowtowed to Li Xiandong three times.

"Brother, I know I am not qualified to call you eldest brother again. However, I have no choice but to come here shamelessly. Brother, I went to serve, and only my mother-in-law and children are left at home. In our clan In theory, nothing should happen. However, if something does happen, please help me. I will repay your kindness in the next life by being a cow or a horse. "

Li Xiandong wanted to reach out and help Li Xianxi up at that time, but Li Xiaohan didn't want to care about it. After all, Li Xianxi's family took advantage of them in the old house.

"Uncle Xianxi, there is only one adult in your family. How about I lend you ten taels of silver, and you can use the money to pay for the corvee, and you can pay it back slowly in the future."

He is called Uncle Xianxi, not Third Uncle. This is the way to recognize uncles from the clan. After all, Li Xiandong has been adopted by Li Shengren's family.

Li Xianxi raised his head. Everyone had misjudged this niece in the past. She was obviously the smartest person in their Li family. She was so smart that he was a little scared. "Niece Xiaohan, I know you are kind-hearted. I just know that you are kind-hearted." Yes, it's just that I borrowed your money and I can't pay it back. I can't take advantage of you like this."

No, I would rather you take advantage of money than take advantage of favors.

It's a pity that at this time, everyone thinks that money is more important than favors, especially Li Xianxi's move, because he knew that he could not afford the money, so he would not borrow the money. In the eyes of natives like Li Xiandong and Wang, it was even more like a prodigal son turning back and knowing that he had lost his way. return action.

"I got it. Just go ahead and go." Li Xiandong sighed. After all, he had been the eldest brother for half his life.

"Brother Xiandong, thank you." Li Xianxi kowtowed three more times, and then hurried out.

Seeing Li Xianxi running out, Li Xiandong said with a slight stutter, "Xiaohan, dad knows you don't like it. But, but, Xianxi only said to help when something goes wrong, I, I can't look at them dead."

When he was very young, when Mr. Chen was still pretending, Li Xianxi, who was as big as a bean dumpling, used to follow him in front of his elder brother, calling him "elder brother" one after another.

"Forget it, Dad, you can do whatever you want." Li Xiaohan knew that Li Xiandong's character was not always easy to distinguish in this clan era.

"Hey." Li Xiandong grinned and smiled unnaturally.

Pingshan Village seemed empty after sending off the people who were doing corvee work, although everyone seemed to be moving forward in an orderly manner, chopping wood, carding cotton, preparing winter clothes, everything was preparing for the coming of winter.

However, from time to time, someone would go to Patriarch Li to inquire about the situation of the corvee service. Li Xiaohan inevitably helped to inquire about it. The people of Pingshan Village were relatively lucky, as they were only sent to build construction projects. City wall, everyone is in one place.

"It's good if everyone is in one place, at least there is someone to take care of us." Patriarch Li said.

The day is getting colder and colder, and when I speak, I exhale a white mist, like the chill of winter.

A burst of horse hoofbeats broke the silence of Pingshan Village, and Qingzhu knocked on the door of Li's house.

"Qingzhu, why are you here? What happened?" Li Xiaohan asked. According to Zhang Fu's character, Qingzhu would not be sent here in such a hurry for no reason.

Qingzhu glanced at Clan Chief Li on the side, and then said, "Miss Li, something happened to your clan brother."

"What?" Patriarch Li stood up in shock, "Something happened to Xinhe? What happened?"

"Students from Qingshan Academy used literature to discuss current affairs and were imprisoned by academic officials. Master Li is one of them."

=== Chapter === 136

"Clan Chief, Patriarch. Don't faint yet. Brother Xinhe still hasn't understood what's going on." Li Xiaohan supported the crumbling Patriarch Li and urged him repeatedly.

Patriarch Li almost carried it forward in one breath, but was pulled back by Li Xiaohan's words.

He knew that this son's untimely character would cause trouble, and now it has come true.

Patriarch Li was filled with anger. He didn't know whether he was angry at his son or at the current situation, but he had to force himself to wake up and prepare to rescue his son.

"I believe in Brother Xinhe. Brother Xinhe has his own character, but he is not a reckless person. There must be something hidden in this. Qingzhu, Mr. Zhang sent you here. Please tell me in detail what happened." Li Xiaohan saw that Patriarch Li had managed to regain some sense and said quickly.

"The academic administration is arresting people for making false comments on current affairs. The specific situation of these students is not clear now, but I have not heard of torture. The academy is working hard to rescue them, but Qingshan Academy is originally under the jurisdiction of the academic administration, so the effect is Not big, but for other specific details, the young master asked Chief Li and Miss Li to come to Fucheng together to elaborate."

"In that case, let's go to Fucheng as soon as possible." Li Xiaohan said. There wasn't much information revealed in Qingzhu's words. He could only say that it was not too good and not too bad.

However, one thing is that the academy is rescuing them, which shows that there is a force protecting these students, but I don't know how big this force is.

"Okay. Let me pack some things when I get home, and we'll leave immediately." Patriarch Li hurriedly agreed.

This is his only son, and he is still a civil servant. Young people are bound to be more passionate. How can he, the father, ignore this? If you want to pack something when you go back, then of course you need to pack money to deal with relationships.

About a quarter of an hour later, Li Xiaohan explained the situation to Li Xiandong and Wang, and then rode a carriage to Fucheng with Patriarch Li.

The sky was full of wind and snow, and Patriarch Li was an old man. He didn't dare to let him ride a fast horse at this time. It was impossible for Li Xiaohan to accompany Patriarch Li in a carriage.

Directly to Fucheng Tongfu Restaurant, Zhang Fu was already waiting.

"I heard from Qingzhu about Xin and Brother's situation. How are you now?" Li Xiaohan asked directly without even having time to take off his cloak.

Patriarch Li followed eagerly with an eager expression. The biggest force they could find now was Zhang Fu.

"Don't worry, I asked Qingzhu to inform you. I'm afraid that you will know the news from other places and get confused." Zhang Fu comforted him, "There is no problem with brother Xinhe's safety at present. They were just imprisoned and not tortured."

After receiving Zhang Fu's affirmation again and knowing that they were safe, both Patriarch Li and Li Xiaohan breathed a sigh of relief.

Seeing this, Zhang Fu continued, "Yesterday evening, news came from Liaodong that the Beizhou clan had captured two more county towns, and there was an uproar everywhere. There were students in Qingshan Academy talking about it, and some of them The students were very excited and expressed their dissatisfaction with the lack of action by the imperial court. Brother Xinhe was among them and recited "Congjun March" many times to express his grievances."

""On the Military Journey"? "On the Military Journey" by Yang Jiong, a poet from the Tang Dynasty?" Chief Li asked with confusion and a bit of disbelief.

"Yes." Zhang Fu nodded.

"The beacon light shines on Xijing, and I feel uneasy in my heart.

Yazhang bid farewell to Fengque, and the iron cavalry circled Dragon City.

The snow is dark, the flag paintings are withered, and the wind is heavy with the sound of drums.

It is better to be a centurion than a scholar. "

Li Xiaohan didn't even know that Patriarch Li had good literary literacy. However, although this poem sounded very appropriate to the situation, it was far-fetched to find a problem. It was just memorizing previous poems.

Sure enough, Patriarch Li thought the same way, with a sad expression on his face, "My son was wronged. He just memorized a poem. What's wrong with this? Are we going to be imprisoned for this?"

"No, ahem, brother Xinhe and others read it many times. I heard that there was a lot of excitement that night, and a group of students were reading poems, tearing up books, and shouting to abandon their pens and join the army." Zhang Fu explained with a hint of helplessness, "Perhaps it's because he is a popular person and Brother Xinhe is very charisma."

The sensation caused last night was so great that most of the students in the academy were aroused. Under the excitement, some scholars were overly excited and spoke indiscriminately. Later development became somewhat uncontrollable.

Although Li Xinhe did not have any extreme words, he was indeed one of the leading figures.

Forehead. Patriarch Li paused, quite speechless, with tears and runny nose hanging on his old face, his expression was really complicated.

Even Li Xiaohan was speechless by this wave of operations. He didn't expect it to be because of this.

You could say that Li Xin was not cautious, because he just recited a poem; you could say that he was cautious, and he participated in such an activity that obviously reflected current events, but he was still the soul figure.

Of course, Li Xiaohan can also understand that these students may have a lot of passion in their hearts, but at this time, it is easy to think of it.

At the very least, it would make no sense to pretend that they were just reviewing and reciting their lessons.

"But what should we do now?" Li Xiaohan asked, things have happened, and the most important thing now is how to deal with it.

"Most of the students who participated in the assembly yesterday have been returned to the academy. Currently, in addition to Brother Xinhe, there are four other people who are in jail. The families of these four people are all local wealthy people. Before you come, I have already run through it for a round, but the effect is not great."

"Academic administration does not release people? Does this matter have any impact on academic administration?"

"Some students' comments that night have been spread. In this case, the academic administration will at least be involved in improper discipline. Now the academic administration is detaining the students to show their innocence to the court."

"Or maybe this is a gift from the academic administration to scare the monkeys, and to show goodwill to the court."

Oh, Li Xiaohan understands, the academic administration belongs to the grandson. As a result, these students may have scolded the grandson of the supervising country last night - this is not surprising. After all, the young Gavin man got excited and scolded nothing. surprisingly. If something happens within the academic administration's own jurisdiction, you must clear your relationship and not let him go easily, otherwise he will easily become a second-rate kid.

"Then, there is no one in the court who agrees with them?" Li Xiaohan asked with hope.

At these times, there are always those who advocate war and those who advocate peace. Although Li Xin and others like them are a little impulsive and passionate, in essence, they all care about their family and country. To express their feelings, they all said, "I would rather be a centurion than a scholar."

Someone should appreciate them, right?

If the academic and political path doesn't work, then try another path.

Zhang Fu glanced at Li Xiaohan and said, "Currently there is no news in the court. However, Prince Ding's Mansion is actually divided into two factions. One faction believes that these students are right and should not be detained. Just reprimand them and let them go, but this group is a little embarrassed, because some scholars even talk about the prince. This is not done well, and it is easy to involve the prince, but the matter becomes complicated and loses its flavor. "

Oh, Li Xiaohan understood. He probably stepped down and praised him, scolded the court and praised the prince for his merits in guarding the border, and maybe even called for the prince to send troops to attack Beizhou. In this case, it is really difficult for King Ding to come forward.

Seeing that Li Xiaohan understood what he meant, Zhang Fu continued, "The other group wanted to take this opportunity to see what the imperial court wanted. After all, the Liaodong side lost two more cities in the war, but the imperial court did not There is almost no movement on the side, and they can't come up with a plan yet, so they can only stick to it. If Liaodong can't stand it, the pressure will be on Dingcheng."

Well, this is to use students as a weapon of public opinion to force the court to take action.

It's just that in this way, after the knife is used, it can be easily thrown out and broken to calm the anger of being forced to make a decision.

Li Xiaohan's face was heavy. Even Zhang Fu said that there were two factions. Obviously, Prince Ding's palace was unable to act in a unified manner.

"Although there are two factions, everyone currently understands that they are our Dingcheng students after all, and their safety must be guaranteed."

Although Zhang Fu said this, political compromise can sometimes easily cause problems. After all, the bottom line is to retreat again and again.

However, in the current chaotic situation, there is not much they can do.

"In addition to Brother Xinhe, there are four other people who were also sent to labor at the same time. Can you contact their families?"

The people who are most consistent with their stance are the family members of the other four students.

"Yes, they are actually in another private room."

Li Xiaohan finally recovered from his desperation, "Are you in trouble?"

Zhang Fu is from Prince Ding's Mansion, but as things have developed now, it was Zhang Fu who contacted them, inquired about the situation for them, and even came forward to help contact others.

Zhang Fu's move was basically based on their standpoint, and the pressure he received from all parties was certainly considerable.

"Don't be embarrassed, I am the first one." Zhang Fu said with a comforting smile, "Two of these four people contacted me. I simply arranged them together. Shall I take you to meet them?"

"Well, please lead the way."

At present, there is no other way but to owe Zhang Fu first.

Zhang Fu led Li Xiaohan and Patriarch Li to another private room.

Either rich or noble.

This is Li Xiaohan's first impression of these four parents.

They should all be relatives at home, not housekeepers or the like.

Thinking about it, only the young and enthusiastic students will participate in this gathering, and whether the young people spend money to attend or are admitted to Qingshan Academy, they are most likely to be valued young people in their families. .

Seeing Zhang Fu and Li Xiaohan coming in, these people were anxious and showed confusion and rejection, "Who are these two?"

After all, Li Xiaohan and Patriarch Li were dressed a little shabbily, so they were not the same kind of people, and what they were going to do now was very sensitive. For the sake of safety, the less people knew about it, the better. People you don't know on a daily basis are even less trusted.

"This is student Li Xinhe's family." Zhang Fu introduced.

After hearing Zhang Fu's introduction, some parents' expressions of rejection became slightly lighter, but they still disagreed - hearing that Li Xinhe was born in a civilian family, what use could his family have, let alone an old girl and a young girl.

Only one of them asked slightly hesitantly, "Miss Li?"

"Do you know me? Li Xiaohan also thinks this person looks familiar.

"My surname is He, and my family runs a white wax garden." The wealthy man who claimed to be surnamed He introduced himself.

Li Xiaohan remembered that Mr. He, apart from the military, ran the largest private ash garden and was a well-informed, wealthy and powerful person.

"Master He." Li Xiaohan returned the greeting.

It's just that the situation is wrong at the moment. After the two of them greeted each other, neither of them was in the mood to socialize.

However, as Mr. He revealed Li Xiaohan's identity, these parents no longer rejected Li Xiaohan. Just say, no wonder it was Zhang Fu who personally brought the person in. It turned out to be Miss Bai Wax Li, so everything makes sense.

Since he was a trustworthy person, these parents' attention returned to Zhang Fu.

"Second Young Master Zhang, my son is really unjust. He is only twenty-two years old and is still ignorant."

Zhang Fu is not even twenty-two, Zhang Fu is twenty this year.

However, Zhang Fu could only say, "Mr. Huang, of course I know Mr. Huang's character. It's just that Mr. Huang and others are currently under the control of the academic administration, so we can't directly ask the academic administration to release them."

Everyone had already understood the situation before coming, and naturally knew that what Zhang Fu said was true.

"Second Young Master Zhang, is my son not suffering any punishment in prison?" Another gentleman asked worriedly.

"Please rest assured, Master Gu. According to the latest news, Master Gu and the others did not suffer much in prison."

"We need to find an opportunity to explore the prison." The old man said uneasily.

"That's what I said, but Huang Xuezheng didn't make any progress, and for a while, he couldn't find a chance." Another gentleman said angrily.

"Can you use money to clear the way?"

"I tried it. Huang Xuezheng actually came back. The people who were sent out said that Huang Xuezheng came from a wealthy family, and he doesn't like yellow and white things very much. He has a reputation for being honest."

"Just having a reputation of being honest can't make you go from a wealthy family to a second-rank scholar. It's just a person who is just fishing for fame. He wants to step on me and go straight to Qingyun Road. It doesn't matter whether he has the ability."

"Huang Xuezheng has a good reputation. Can he take a curveball path to save the country? How about Mrs. Huang? I heard that Huang Xuezheng's father is also in Fucheng?"

"Mrs. Huang is also from a well-known and decent family. Apart from being a germaphobe, she rarely socializes on weekdays. Master Huang heard that he is getting older and went back to his hometown to recuperate some time ago."

Li Xiaohan frowned when he heard this. Mr. Huang was sent back to his hometown? After Huang Xuezheng took action, the evidence left behind should have been swept away. Sure enough, he is a cunning old fox.

"There's nothing you can do if you're soft, and there's nothing you can do if you're hard. He's a member of the imperial court, and he's not subject to our tricks."

"I can't help it. It's hard to fall out with him now. The children are still in his hands."

The more these people talked, the more liberal they became. Li Xiaohan guessed that Huang Xuezheng had been picked on. Unfortunately, nothing from money to beauty seemed to be able to impress a person with a good reputation like Huang Xuezheng.

There is a certain reason for sons to resemble their fathers, but after all, they are not the group of people in prison who are still in their twenties and are still ignorant.

"Now that the hostages are under pressure, we cannot deal with them. We must not make things too tense."

"That's right, that's right. Suppress the matter first, don't let it ferment anymore. Then figure it out slowly, that's the best way."

"Brother He is right. Let's lower the heat first and then think of other solutions."

At present, it seems that what can be done is to reduce the heat first and then take steps to figure it out.

Li Xiaohan frowned slightly. He couldn't let Zhang Fu sink too deep, but he couldn't ignore Li Xinhe. Since there would be no problem with safety for a while, let's calm down first and take a look at the situation.

=== Chapter === 137

A group of wealthy gentlemen in the box were talking incessantly, but Patriarch Li couldn't get a word in. He was full of heart to save his son, but couldn't find a place to show it.

After everyone left, Patriarch Li asked with reluctance, confusion and reluctance, "Are we leaving like this?"

"Well. The information that Mr. He and the others have detected should be most of the information that we can obtain now. The conclusion drawn based on this information is indeed what they said. Take a moment and take a look. Let's talk about this situation." Li Xiaohan explained.

"Then there's nothing we can do?" Patriarch Li was a little worried and helpless. This city was too big. He had money in his arms, but he didn't know where to send it. But my son was in the cell, and the feeling of being unable to do anything was too painful.

"No, there is one thing we can do." Li Xiaohan said, "I felt a little strange when I entered the door. Now it seems that, patriarch, you are too out of tune with Mr. He and the others."

"What do you mean?" Patriarch Li asked at the same time.

"There is also knowledge in arresting people in the academic administration. Look at the few people arrested by the academic administration. They are all from wealthy families and have a certain degree of influence, but they do not have the force. In other words, they are from wealthy families. , he didn't touch King Ding's people, so the people on King Ding's side didn't fall out with him. This is a very cunning official figure, and he has a good grasp of the situation. Why did he arrest him? Brother Xinhe? What is there to gain from Brother Xinhe? "

Li Xin comes from a poor family. The only special thing about him is that he was born in Pingshan Village, and Pingshan Village is special because it produced Li Xiaohan.

"Do you suspect that Xuezheng may have other purposes? Is he here for you?" Zhang Fu asked, not wanting Li Xiaohan to take the responsibility on himself. "It's also possible that Xuezheng just wants to find the softest persimmon. You can do the surgery first, Brother Xinhe may have just happened to be hit by the accident."

"This possibility cannot be ruled out. So we need to verify it now."

"How to verify? We can't see Xinhe now." The patriarch interrupted anxiously.

"Let's go find Brother Xinhe's roommate Lin Heng. This man is smart and scheming and has a good relationship with Brother Xinhe. If anyone knows something, it must be Lin Heng."

This is the male protagonist of the original text, a character with both luck and wisdom. How could it be possible for students to protest against such a big thing as current affairs without being informed at all? Moreover, according to Li Xiaohan's understanding, Lin Heng, as described in the book, is prone to making the same mistakes as men when it comes to women, but he is no loser when it comes to loyalty to men. How could a male protagonist, the soul of a book world, not have some shining points?

"I'll go with you." Zhang Fu frowned slightly, his eyes slightly dim, wondering why Li Xiaohan thought so highly of Lin Heng.

"Yes, yes, look for Lin Xiucai. Xinhe often talks about the good relationship between the two of them." Patriarch Li said.

The three of them hurried to Qingshan Academy. Xu had just experienced a student movement yesterday. Qingshan Academy was heavily guarded at the moment, and even the guards at the door were much stricter.

Li Xiaohan and the others asked the guards to help call Lin Heng out. The guards at the door also asked many questions. Finally, they pretended to be Lin Heng's family members and gained the trust of the guards to help them go in and call for help.

"Actually, I can send someone to make arrangements." Zhang Fu whispered, not wanting Li Xiaohan to lower his head at this time, or even lower his head just to see Lin Heng.

"Your identity is too sensitive. It would not be good for you to reveal your identity at Qingshan Academy at this time." Li Xiaohan shook his head.

"Yeah." Zhang Fu responded, and for some reason he felt that the depression just now had dissipated a lot, and even the white snow on the mountain was pleasing to the eye.

Lin Heng came out quickly. When he saw Patriarch Li and Li Xiaohan, his puzzled expression became more natural. When he saw Zhang Fu beside him, he tensed up a little.

"Brother Lin, Xinhe was captured by someone. He is not usually such an impulsive person. Is there anything unusual about him these days? You are usually very close to him. What do you have? If you find out, you must tell us." Patriarch Li grabbed Lin Heng's hand and asked urgently.

"Uncle, I know, don't worry, I will tell you everything I know." Lin Heng grabbed Patriarch Li's hand and comforted him, "Actually, I also participated in last night's gathering. Most of the people in the academy In fact, all the students participated. Qingshan Academy does not restrict students from studying, and it is common for scholars to care about people's livelihood policies."

"It's just that what happened last night broke out very suddenly. The news that Liaodong lost another two cities came too suddenly, and then the atmosphere in the crowd was suddenly detonated. Brother Xinhe and I were not far away at that time. , Brother Xinhe is always sincere to others, and he is also very popular in our class. Soon someone called Brother Xinhe and said something. At that time, the crowd was furious, and everyone was very excited, and they could say anything at that time. Not surprisingly."

Having said this, Lin Heng quickly looked around and his tone became faster, "But, now that I think about it, those people who called me brother Xinhe rarely interacted with us on weekdays. Later, when everyone became more and more excited, I realized it was a little out of control, so I called Brother Xinhe to leave. But Brother Xinhe refused, and there was someone I didn't know beside Brother Xinhe, so Brother Xinhe followed him forward."

After saying that, Lin Heng stuffed a piece of paper towards Patriarch Li in a vague and quick manner.

"That scholar in front of you, what are you doing? You are not allowed to deliver paper messages." The guard at the door shouted from a distance, and the man walked quickly towards this side.

Patriarch Li quickly stuffed the paper into his arms, and then took out a banknote.

"Brother guard, no, no message, just a bank note. The family is worried about the child and wants the child to go back. I beg brother to be accommodating." Patriarch Li lowered his head and said with a smile.

"You are not allowed to leave the academy now. Go back quickly. Okay, you have had enough time to chat. Let's take a walk and go back to the academy to study hard until the matter is settled."

"Uncle, I'm going back to the academy first. Take good care of yourself." Lin Heng said goodbye, and suddenly turned to Zhang Fu and said, "Brother Zhang Fu, go back first and help me tell sister Xiaohan to take good care of the family." That pot of orchids is waiting for me when I get back."

Li Xiaohan felt like his hair was standing on end.

"Let's go back first." Seeing Lin Heng and the guards returning to the academy, but no one was seen, Zhang Fu reacted first.

The three of them sat in the carriage in silence. They guessed that Lin Heng could give them some information, but they did not expect that he could give them so much information.

"That's not what I said to you, it was what Brother Xinhe said to Lin Heng." Li Xiaohan said in a low voice.

The relationship between Lin Heng and Zhang Fu was not that good at all, and Li Xiaohan was right in front of him, asking Zhang Fu what to say.

So the original words of that sentence should be what Li Xinhe said to Lin Heng when he left, "Brother Lin Heng, please go back first and help me tell sister Xiaohan to take good care of the pot of orchids at home and wait for me to go back. "

Orchid should refer to Li Lanhua, which refers to academic affairs.

"Well." Zhang Fu said, "If he was free, he would not ask Lin Heng to say anything. So at that time, he should have been no longer free, or because of some situation, Brother Xinhe chose He had to leave with someone else. However, even if he chose to leave, he brought the message in such a way that the person next to him is very suspicious."

Patriarch Li hurriedly opened the piece of paper Lin Heng pushed over. It was a portrait.

"I don't know." Zhang Fu shook his head, "It's very likely that he is someone who studies politics. If a government studies politics, it would be too easy to arrange some people in the academy."

"Patriarch, I'm sorry. Brother Xinhe may have suffered on my behalf." Li Xiaohan said slightly apologetically.

Patriarch Li paused for a moment, then let out a long sigh, "I don't blame you, the Li family has all benefited from you. If you don't say that when you benefit, it's the Li family that attracts hungry wolves." At that time, I would put down my job and scold the person who recruited people with the secret recipe. Moreover, I know my own son very well. Whether it is public opinion and politics or the secret recipe, it seems like he will do something."

Zhang Fu glanced at Patriarch Li unexpectedly, and then asked, "The Lanhua that brother Xinhe mentioned, is Li Lanhua also involved in this matter?"

"It shouldn't matter. Li Lanhua has been in the clan these days. I have noticed that no strangers have come in and out of the village these days." Speaking of the situation in the village, Chief Li still said Confident.

"I think the patriarch is right. Li Lanhua's family doesn't seem to have the brains to act as a double agent. Li Lanhua really hates Xuezheng's family. And Xuezheng's family should not use her again. After all, Xuezheng's father They have all been sent back to their hometown. I don't want this matter to be brought up again. The traces have been wiped clean. I probably just chose the orchid to point to the academic politics."

"Then this matter was initiated by the academic administration? What is he doing this for? Just because of a secret recipe, he wants to make it so big? Doesn't it mean that he has a bad reputation and will be laxly disciplined by Ginseng? ?" Patriarch Li felt puzzled. His son was not worthy of making such a big noise.

Li Xiaohan and Zhang Fu were silent for a while, and then shook their heads, "I think they weren't originally here for Brother Xinhe."

Zhang Fu nodded, stretched out his hand to draw a line on the small table of the carriage, "Here, there are two things that should happen naturally. The first is the war situation in Liaodong. Basically no one can stop this. , and the other is that the students are full of anger to serve the country, and the hearts of the people are uncontrollable."

Then going down this line, "But these two things happened together by coincidence. Maybe some people wanted to deal with academic politics, or maybe they wanted to ferment public opinion, so they added fuel to the fire and pushed it. These students."

Li Xiaohan pointed out one of them and continued, "At present, Xuezheng may have been passive before, but on his home court, he quickly reacted and responded. Dirty water was thrown at the prince, so he stepped on it. Now that the prince can't come forward, the situation is in his hands. The person next to Brother Xinhe may be the chess piece he laid out before, and now he plays it together Come."

The second-grade scholar is not someone they can look down upon. Li Lanhua was just a nobody before, and she was able to escape because of the luck that the scholar didn't pay attention to. Once Li Lanhua might explode himself, Xuezheng immediately arranged for his father to return to his hometown. After taking action, he had no loopholes at all.

Li Xiaohan feels very confused now. In her previous life, she only watched business wars. In fact, she was not very good at wrestling at this level.

Ask her to tell you that she really just wants to use all kinds of medicinal materials, start a stable business, and make a little fortune.

"Now it seems that the water is too muddy. Someone in the palace may have taken action in the dark. No wonder there is a second faction. No wonder my previous information was shallow and superficial."

This is also very possible. Strictly speaking, Zhang Fu is a member of the general group. Even if King Ding values civility over military affairs, how could such a large palace not have capable civil servants?

"Then... what should we do now?" Patriarch Li was confused when he heard this. He just felt that his son was very unlucky and had nowhere to work.

"Wait a minute. Now the initiative comes to the academic administration. I don't know what this person will do." Zhang Fu said with a frown.

"Yes. We are too weak and we don't have a chance to play now. We have to wait for a good entry point." Li Xiaohan said.

They are all little people who were involved in the turmoil of the times. They were carried forward, but they refused to accept their fate and wanted to find an opportunity.

But, when will that entry point come?

=== Chapter === 138

At noon and dusk the next day, it was in the Gumen Alley of Lijia.

After confirming that many parties might be involved in this melee, especially the prince's staff, Li Xiaohan knew that he could not just wait.

The waiting of the weak is to wait for the judgment of fate, while the waiting of the strong should be to gather strength to seize the dominance of their own destiny.

After slowly writing the last word, Li Xiaohan put away the brush in his hand. Her handwriting is a little better than before, but at most it can only be said to be straight and has no sense of beauty. However, every stroke is written extremely seriously and powerfully, without any ambiguity.

"Patriarch, I am going to present the alcohol recipe. After this period of time, our Lijia Winery will only make pepper wine." Li Xiaohan looked at the paper and said lightly, as if he was just making wine. made an ordinary decision.

Now that you have been involved, don't take chances and increase your weight.

"It doesn't matter if you offer it up. Alcohol is something that can save lives. We are about to fight a war. Our little Li clan cannot save it." Patriarch Li was not reluctant to part with this, but he just wanted to save his life. turned to worry and said, "It's just that at this time, I have offered the alcohol recipe. What will Xinhe do?"

"It is precisely because of Brother Xin and Brother that we have to offer it. This recipe is very hot. We can only choose one between King Ding and Xuezheng." Li Xiaohan said.

It is impossible for them to choose academic politics. Let's not say whether they will let Li Xinhe go if they really get the secret recipe. In Ding Wang's territory, they will capsize after studying academic politics. After joining the Chinese army in 1949, how could Li Xiaohan make such a mistake?

"Yes, that's the truth." Patriarch Li sighed.

"I'm going to go to the government office tomorrow to teach you how to make Tiger Balm. Patriarch, please go with me." Li Xiaohan said.

"Are you going to teach me how to use Tiger Balm?" Patriarch Li was surprised.

Patriarch Li has experienced the effect of this tiger balm very well these days. This little thing is easier to make and lasts longer than pepper wine. After all, many people don't drink, but no one dares to say that they don't have headaches and headaches. How can civilians afford to hire a doctor? This snake oil is much cheaper and more convenient than a doctor.

"This thing doesn't belong to me in the first place. I just got this recipe by chance, and I gave it to the public when I took it out." Li Xiaohan said with a smile, not reluctant to part with it, "Moreover, look at the weather, it's getting worse and worse. The colder it gets, the sooner you take it out, the more people can use it, and it can help a lot of people."

"Okay. I'll go with you." Patriarch Li nodded.

After living a long time, Patriarch Li didn't know that this tiger balm was also for Li Xinhe: the louder Li Xiaohan's name and prestige, the less he dared to touch Li Xinhe easily in academic affairs.

Seeing Patriarch Li's moved face, Li Xiaohan smiled and consoled him, "Don't be too moved, Patriarch. You know, the most likely target of Academic Affairs is me. If it weren't for Old Uncle Zhong who followed closely, I would have been the target of Academic Affairs." If I don't have a place to attack, I won't attack Brother Xin and Brother. Therefore, I am doing this for my own safety in the future."

Therefore, she must rescue Li Xinhe!

The two comforted each other, smiled, and said nothing more.

After a while, Zhang Fu came over in a hurry, but Patriarch Li had the good sense to avoid him first.

"

"Have you really thought about it?"

"When I say it, I naturally thought about it." Li Xiaohan nodded and said, "Actually, this secret recipe has always been on my side before, so you are under a lot of pressure."

Even if you know a little bit about academic politics, you have to go to trouble to set up a trap. : Now that I think about it, I know that whether it is the huge benefits brought by distilled liquor or the unparalleled role of alcohol in the battlefield, the result is that it is restricted by a small workshop of the Li family, the output cannot keep up, and the secret recipe is in the hands of others. , Zhang Fu must be under a lot of pressure.

"Fortunately. The impact you bring is more important than those temporary benefits." Zhang Fu said seriously, "Actually, you don't have to give up the secret recipe because of this incident. The situation has not reached the most serious level yet. When the time comes, we can look at it again."

Zhang Fu had already thought of various ways to snatch Li Xinhe back by force.

Li Xiaohan looked at him in surprise, and after confirming that Zhang Fu was not joking, he smiled and said, "It doesn't matter, besides alcohol, I have other things. However, there are still some things I can show you."

Since alcohol is to be sacrificed, this aspect must be given more weight.

Li Xiaohan said, taking Zhang Fu to an open space, "You know, when we steam wine, the first wine that comes out is called the first wine. This wine cannot be drank directly, nor can it be used as a drink. Alcohol is used because it contains too many impurities."

Li Xiaohan said, picking up a wine jar, which was just shipped out from the Pingshan Village Winery. Pour some of the wine from the wine jar into the brazier, and then carefully light the fire with a thin stick of firewood.

The blue flame suddenly burst into flames in the brazier. Zhang Fu's eyes narrowed slightly - fire has always been very destructive. No one thought that this wine could actually burn. .

"Let's retreat a little." Li Xiaohan continued, and then waved to Old Uncle Zhong in the distance, "Old Uncle Zhong, come here."

Old Uncle Zhong came over from a distance, and Li Xiaohan continued, "You should be quick enough. Pour this water into the brazier. Be careful. Be sure to step away immediately if it is poured. The faster the better. This Not enough water will not extinguish the fire, but will fuel the fire and make the fire burn faster. So be careful and careful."

Li Xiaohan warned again and again very carefully. After all, fire safety has been demonstrated many times. When alcohol catches fire and encounters a small amount of water, it will not only fail to stop the fire immediately, but will instead fuel the fire. Moreover, this wine also contains methanol, etc. The methanol gas that volatilizes after combustion will burn over a larger area when it comes in contact with water.

In short, I would like to thank my previous boss, Qian Duo, for cherishing life very much and doing a very good job in forest fire prevention awareness. From time to time, he would ask the fireman brother to give lectures and training to everyone.

Old Uncle Zhong was dubious about Li Xiaohan's words. If water can't extinguish the fire, then it should be able to reduce the intensity of the fire. It can also help the fire to burn more fiercely. However, Li Xiaohan looked very serious, so he still increased his vigilance and poured half of a small basin of water onto the brazier.

Huh!

The fire rose up, bigger and more fierce, and the flames spread out. Old Uncle Zhong took three steps back.

The fire was not strong enough to hurt him, but the sight was inconsistent with what he had seen before, which still shocked old Uncle Zhong.

"Pour again."

After hearing this, Old Uncle Zhong poured in the remaining half of the water. The fire was still not extinguished, but instead spread.

After a while, perhaps because the fuel burned out, the fire finally slowly became smaller and weaker, and finally extinguished.

"This fire...can't be extinguished?" Old Uncle Zhong murmured, unable to recover for a while.

"No, as long as there is enough water, it can still be extinguished." That's why the Li family's winery chose the pond. "It's just that when this thing burns, it's not the same as ordinary fires."

It's so different. This thing is so lethal when used well.

Old Uncle Zhong, who came down from the battlefield, has already imagined countless situations in his mind. For example, in the siege battle, most of the city gates were wooden gates, and wood was afraid of fire.

Old Uncle Zhong looked at Zhang Fu quietly. Zhang Fu frowned slightly and his expression became more cautious.

Li Xiaohan sighed in his heart, and then said, "Okay, I have written down the secret recipe for steaming wine on paper. This is actually an extra process. You see how to deal with it."

Li Xiaohan handed the paper to Zhang Fu. The principle of distilling wine is actually very simple. As long as they know the process of distillation, I believe that according to the wisdom of the ancients, they can quickly experiment with more tricks.

If Zhang Fu refuses to refuse, after learning more about alcohol, it will indeed be difficult to stay in the Li family.

"Don't worry, Li Xinhe's matter will be resolved soon."

After taking things from the Li family, we must rescue the Li family.

"Yeah." In this regard, Li Xiaohan believed Zhang Fu and didn't ask any more questions, "Tomorrow I will go to the government office to train on the method of Tiger Balm. Have you informed me?"

When talking about the method of Tiger Balm, Zhang Fu wanted to give another advice, "You have already donated the alcohol recipe, but you can actually keep the Tiger Balm yourself."

This little tiger balm has been selling so well in Renhetang recently. It has become popular among ordinary students from the beginning. Especially now that the weather is cold, many people have discovered that this thing is particularly useful and have started to keep it on hand.

The sales of Tiger Balm by Renhetang are shared with Li Xiaohan. If you keep this, you might be able to earn more than steaming wine.

"It's okay, this actually doesn't conflict. I guess everyone can use the simplified version of the recipe, and Renhetang's recipe is more complete."

After all, the extraction of camphor and eucalyptus oil is too complicated, and the price cannot be lowered to the point where it can be used by all the people. Most civilians can use it, and it is probably a simple version of peppermint oil, which is not the same as what Renhetang sells. Do not conflict.

Of course, those who have some spare money can buy camphor, eucalyptus oil, etc., but after all this trouble, it is better to buy finished products at Renhetang for convenience and saving money.

There must be families with money and leisure, but among these families, if they get sick, they will probably seek medical advice long ago, and not many of them can rely on a box of Tiger Balm.

As for whether other medicine halls will imitate it, there will definitely be, but the market is so big that Renhetang will not be able to finish it all in a while. Under fair competition, Renhetang, as the first medicine hall to launch Tiger Balm, will definitely be Considered to be the most authentic. It is enough to capture the largest piece of the market.

It only loses a part of the benefits, but brings more - Li Xiaohan does not need huge wealth, too much wealth is not safe. Looking at the history of ancient and modern times, several richest families can safely inherit it.

What Li Xiaohan needs is a better reputation, a more transcendent status, and a deeper support from the people. Wealth and power in this dynasty can be easily taken away by those in power, but the intangible beauty and deep-rooted reputation in the hearts of the people can make those in power scruple and make her safer.

=== Chapter === 139

The next day, the front guard post.

"Is this thing really so effective at burning? Let's give it a try." No one dared to conceal the effectiveness of the first wine. As soon as Zhang Fu knew about it, he hurriedly sent it to Wang Ding. . Moreover, Li Xinhe is also waiting for rescue, so this matter cannot be delayed.

Because the war situation in Liaodong was stalemate, and the Western Tartars were watching with eagerness, King Ding was not in the palace of King Ding, but at the front guard post.

Along with the fast horse, there were not only letters but also samples of the first wine. Besides, there was also alcohol in the guardhouse. After a demonstration, all the close friends of King Ding who watched together were silent for a long time.

"It's a pity that the output of this thing is too low. It's a pity. It's a pity." General Lian Chang sighed.

"No." Someone agreed in a low voice.

Not only wood is afraid of fire, but livestock is also afraid of fire. In particular, the Tartars often ride horses. If they can frighten the enemy's horses in a large-scale charge, the chaotic stampede caused by the frightened horses will simply lead to victory without a fight.

Unfortunately, the output is too low and cannot be applied in large quantities.

"That Miss Li is just a country girl. How on earth does she know so much about white wax and alcohol? You should be careful if something goes wrong." Some people also raised questions.

"The rumor that she was enlightened by her grandmother before her grave is just a joke. In fact, she was a smart girl. Most of the white wax and alcohol were distilled using some kind of distillation method. They are all methods of the predecessors, but no one has ever thought of it. It can still be used like this." Zhang Zhen changed his previous arrogance and explained in a low voice, "You have to be soft-hearted, otherwise you can't give away the white wax prescription and the ten thousand gold ointment prescription."

"Yes, she is a smart girl with a kind heart." King Ding sighed. He had already given away all the prescriptions. That is, a girl with a good reputation, what else could she have? "Cheng'an said that Miss Li was going to give Tiger Balm Will the practice be taught to others?"

"Yes, because the weather is getting colder, this tiger balm is cheap, convenient and practical, so I made this method public so that the poor people who can't afford medicine and look down on doctors can also use it. Don't just suffer from it."

King Ding paused for a long time, then sighed and said, "Okay, okay."

With King Ding saying hello, the people below didn't need to say anything anymore and started taking action.

In Dingcheng, Li Xiaohan, who was praised as a good person, did not know the truth. She just followed the original plan and began to prepare to teach the method of Tiger Balm to increase her reputation.

Before starting, she thought the weather was cold and the notice time was too short, so the popularity would not be too high. However, Li Xiaohan ignored the ancient people's determination to learn skills, especially when this skill was a necessary skill in life.

In the biting cold wind, a group of people wearing cotton-padded clothes hunched their necks and breathed white steam. When they saw Li Xiaohan coming, they all showed happy and grateful smiles on their faces, "Miss Li, you are here."

"Yeah." Li Xiaohan nodded, scanning the simple faces one by one, trying to recognize some people, or remember them, but their faces were too similar, but also too different, so that Li Xiaohan Unable to identify them.

Trying to identify the person failed, and he could only roughly judge from the clothes and the time of arrival that the person who came was probably someone who lived nearby. Without any more nonsense, Li Xiaohan began to demonstrate how to make Tiger Balm. .

The preparation of tiger balm is actually to heat and dissolve various plant essential oils, such as peppermint oil, camphor oil, eucalyptus oil, etc., with white wax separated by water, and then store them in a sealed container.

The most commonly used methods for extracting essential oils are distillation, soaking, and oil separation. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages. Li Xiaohan tried his best to introduce each method and use it as much as possible. There are materials and utensils in life. As for which method can be used, it depends on what people have in their homes and which method is more convenient.

Fortunately, almost everyone has mint leaves at home. If you really don't have them, it's not expensive to buy a handful of dried mint leaves from various medicine stores.

In this era, there has been a tradition of using mint to treat colds. As Li Xiaohan himself knew, there were always several mint plants planted in the corner of the vegetable fields in every home in Pingshan Village. When the weather was warm, everyone would pick them if they felt uncomfortable. Crush some leaves, then mix them into boiling porridge water and drink it hot. This is the most common medicine.

When the weather gets cold, the mint leaves will be picked, dried and stored so that they can be used in winter.

While using various instruments to extract peppermint essential oil, I was distracted and answered everyone's questions. In the midst of my busy work, it was almost noon when I finally made this tiger balm.

Li Xiaohan asked everyone to come forward and give it a try. Only after trying it and remembering the effect can you do it when you return home.

"Really, I feel relaxed all over." Someone shouted in surprise during the trial.

Although the government office has tried its best to provide a comfortable environment, it is November after all. After staying in the cold for half a morning, everyone can't help but feel a little uncomfortable. In the past, I would go home and warm myself by the fire, endure it for a while, and then it would pass. Now, after applying the tiger balm I just made, I feel much better after being stimulated.

Many people decided to try it when they got home. The small box of this thing is really convenient. Some people thought of their family members who were doing hard labor outside and made up their minds to make a bottle when they got home. Prepare all the ingredients like Miss Li, but didn't Miss Li say that without those two things, the effect will be slightly worse, but it is still useful.

Over the past two days, as the Tiger Balm gradually spread, Li Xiaohan's reputation became better and better, but for some reason, the spread became a little distorted. If we want to talk about the origin of this crookedness, we have to investigate it carefully. It is still among the people who served in corvee.

At the beginning, Li Xiaohan brought back more than a dozen boxes of tiger balm and took them out to the people doing corvee work in the village. The corvee was hard, tiring, and the weather was cold. At this time, this snake oil came into play. After smearing it on, the headache, fever, and runny nose are much relieved. If I sleep a little more, I can finally hold on.

However, the people of the Li family are lucky, but other people are not so lucky. At this time, if you get sick, it will cost you half your life. Everyone knows that the Li family has medicine.

However, the dozens of boxes of tiger balm that the Li family had were definitely not enough for everyone to share. In desperation, the Li family gave some to the Yamen servants in charge, and then their own family had to go to the toilet and eat every day. By staying together, they were able to keep the remaining snake oil in their hands.

Seeing that there is no other way, although the Li family said that Ten Thousand Gold Oil is sold in Renhetang, but when you hear the name, Ten Thousand Gold Oil must be very expensive, and the people who can come to do corvee work are all poor people. Don't even dare to ask. I can only suffer in despair, get over it, and be fine when I go home. If you can't get through it, it's your own fate.

Suddenly one day, a few old women came to the crowd of laborers and said, "Son, I learned how to make that kind of tiger balm from the white wax girl. I brought it to you. Please apply it quickly."

At this time, doing corvee does not mean that you are completely isolated from the world, and you can also visit. It is just that the corvée is often hard and long, and it is said that "poor people have rich roads, and how can poor people afford it".

It's just that the weather is too cold, and they are really worried about their relatives who are serving in the corvee. Moreover, they have newly learned Tiger Balm from the white wax girl. Several women are worried about their relatives, so they come together.

"Mom, why are you here?" The person came over hurriedly with hunched shoulders, a runny nose and red eyes. As for the tiger balm his mother said, I didn't believe it. That tiger balm sounds very precious at first glance. How can it be affordable for their family?

Unexpectedly, when his mother saw him like this, she quickly took out a wooden box, hurriedly dug out a lump of yellow-green plaster and applied it on him.

The moment is a thrill.

This smell, this smell, this is the smell when I occasionally pass by the Li family members. This is an enviable taste.

The man who was doing the corvee took a deep breath, and felt that it was indeed a miracle medicine, and his mind became clear. He quickly hid the plaster in his arms, then looked around to see if no one had noticed, and then asked in a low voice. He said, "Mom, where did you get this plaster?"

"I do it by myself."

"you made it yourself?"

"Yes, Miss White Wax teaches people how to make this tiger balm in Fucheng. In the government office, you can buy a few taels of white wax at a low price with your place of residence documents. So I boiled the mint at home and made it for you. I sent it to you immediately. Come here." After saying this, the old woman showed some hesitation on her face, "It's just that our family is poor and can't afford the camphor oil, eucalyptus oil, and only the mint, but Miss Li said... , although the effect is not that good, it is still usable."

"Son, how are you using it? Are you okay?"

"Mom, I'm fine, fine. It doesn't matter if you use this or not. In our house, I can just use this." The man almost shed tears. He couldn't afford tiger balm, so he made this home-made plaster. That's fine.

"As long as it's good. Then use the Tiger Balm carefully. I've tried it and it works."

"Is there anything else at home? Mom and dad, your health is not very good."

"Keep it, keep it." The old woman nodded and said. The old man in the family had injured his body during hard labor in his early years, and he was prone to illness in winter.

The two mother and son talked some more, and the old woman hurried back. It was freezing cold today, and they had come here together early, so it was absolutely impossible to stay overnight.

Fortunately, they were all from the same village. There were a few poor old women along the way, and no one robbed them.

It's just that these old women left, and the people who were visited smelled like mint - those who could come naturally would not come empty-handed. They all came with difficulty to deliver medicine. How could they hide it from others? nose.

"You also have Tiger Balm?"

"How is that possible! That tiger balm is so valuable. Our family is extremely poor. How can we afford it?"

"Then why do you smell like that? You smell the same as the people from Lijia Village."

"My mother learned how to boil peppermint oil like this from Ms. White Wax Li, and added some white wax. It's actually white wax oil, yes, it's white wax oil, not tiger balm."

After a period of silence, he said, "Brother, can you give me a try? I have an old mother and young son at home, and I'm afraid I won't be able to survive it."

These people all live in the same camp and sleep together on weekdays. How can they hide their smell?

Besides, living together, everyone's situation is also familiar, they are all miserable people.

"Then...then I'll give you a little, but don't tell me to go out." The man said hesitantly.

"I swear, I will never say anything."

So, the man reluctantly took out a little bit. Suddenly, he had a flash of inspiration and said, "Don't smear it. You can't hide it if you smear it on it. Just eat it."

"Yes, yes, eat it."

As for medicine, the best effect is to take it.

Two days later, family members of other people came to visit one after another. To a greater or lesser extent, these people began to smell a little mint, but when asked, everyone denied it.

However, in private, when these people open their mouths, they feel the taste of mint.

Gradually, as there were more people, everyone came to know that the white wax oil given to them by their families was taught by the white wax girl. The white wax oil they made at home was different from the tiger balm. It was cheap and practical. , but still effective. Everyone occasionally communicates with each other about the differences in what they do at home.

The people of the Li clan also loudly proclaimed, yes, Miss Bai Wa from Fucheng is from our Li clan, and yes, what she taught is right.

The white wax oil taught by the white wax girl gradually became popular among the people instead of tiger balm.

And as Tiger Balm, oh, no, white wax oil gradually spread, it was Li Xiaohan's higher level of reputation and Li Xinhe's successful rescue.

=== Chapter === 140

Regarding Li Xin and these students, the news that Li Xiaohan heard from Zhang Fu at the beginning was that the academic administration was only about detaining people, and there was no execution. There was no doubt about safety.

Then, suddenly there was a voice saying that these students were talking about political affairs and took the opportunity to slander King Ding and the prince, and they were suspicious.

And about a few days after Li Xiaohan taught how to make tiger balm, Zhang Fu was very busy during those days, and the rumor turned out that these students had family and country in mind, and although they were a little impulsive in their youth, they were not. His heart is commendable and his ambition can be seen. He can be detained for a few days and educated, but he cannot be convicted for this.

After this argument came out, it seemed that these things were no longer taboo in Dingcheng. People with money and leisure in teahouses and taverns everywhere could talk about it.

After all, they are young people in Dingcheng, and everyone is still on their side.

However, at this time, Li Xinhe was still not released.

And after the public opinion fermented for a few days, suddenly one day, the old lady of the He family, the mother-in-law of the He family who had a white wax garden at home, somehow came back frequently after going to the cell. Weeping bitterly, he vaguely said that his beloved grandson had suffered a great disaster and been lynched, and he wanted to go to the capital to file a complaint.

As soon as these words came out, the families involved in the accident seemed to have received the news. The female family members were in tears all day long, while the male family members were looking sad.

"Xiaohan, do you think this is true?" Patriarch Li asked worriedly.

"Clan leader, didn't you tell me in advance? Nine out of ten of what is said are false, so you can rest assured." Li Xiaohan comforted him.

She could probably guess that the public opinion was changing, and it was probably two parties wrestling with each other, not only secretly, but also openly - after all, managing students is part of the academic administration. If there is no disagreement, no one can directly interfere with the academic management and students' rights.

However, Old Mrs. He just made it out of thin air - after all, Li Xiaohan knew that Old Mrs. He only went to the cell door once and couldn't get in at all, so she went back and cried about her grandson. After being lynched, Li Xiaohan knew , this wrestling is almost over.

"Or, Patriarch, would you like to go to the cell too?" Li Xiaohan asked.

Of course, the clan leader will most likely not be able to see it either.

"Forget it, no one is paying attention to me. I'd better go to the government office with you." Patriarch Li thought for a while and said, it's not that I haven't been there before, so I can't get in.

When the women of the He family went there, they were attracted by their tall horses, and Patriarch Li drove an ox cart. No one saw them when they arrived, so they might as well go to the government office and follow Li Xiaohan to build their reputation.

But that's it. In the past few days, there have been some wealthy families who have done good deeds and specially purchased some peppermint oil, camphor oil, eucalyptus oil, etc., so that these poor people can buy a few taels cheaply with their place of origin documents. When it was white wax, it was given away for free.

Li Xiaohan asked, these people used to give out porridge and do charity in winter, but now they just give out medicine. He also said that he hoped Miss Li would not mind it.

Because someone even applied the medicine, Li Xiaohan's team of people who took the medicine every day became more and more numerous. Many poor people from remote areas who got the news braved the falling snow to come.

"Where are you from?"

On this day, Li Xiaohan looked at the people in front of him. They were really unfamiliar. The voices they spoke were slightly different from those nearby. You can only hear them clearly if you listen carefully. Then Li Xiaohan asked.

"Miss Li, we came over from the other side of Luoshannan. We spent the night in Fucheng last night and came here early today. Although we are a little far away, we are all in the city." These people were slightly worried. He answered uneasily, fearing that Li Xiaohan would not teach them because they were far away.

Li Xiaohan knew that on the other side of Luoshan South, one had to either climb over the mountain tops or take a long detour of several days along the foot of the mountain.

After a pause, Li Xiaohan asked, "Did you feel safe on the way here?"

Seeing that Li Xiaohan had no objection to where they came from, the visitor grinned and said, "Ansheng, Ansheng, except for some wild animals that braved the wind and snow, we went around in a circle and came from Jiangnan. Those who came along the way to Dingcheng lived peacefully on the road."

The wild beasts that come out to look for food in the wind and snow are no place for people to live in peace. They were just robbers who didn't want to kill anyone.

"That being the case, after you learn this Tiger Balm, if there are kind-hearted people nearby who deliver medicine, you should line up earlier and get one for each person before going back." Li Xiaohan warned.

"Hey, Miss Li." The visitor said happily.

Before coming, they had already inquired about it. They could buy pewter wax cheaply at the government office with their Guanwen books. He had mint, grass and other things at home, so they thought they could use some money to learn this craft in case there were elderly people in the family. It can be used for children with headaches and brain fever.

And, after all, it is a craft that saves lives.

I was just afraid that Miss Li would dislike them for being too far away, or that Miss Li would no longer teach because of the missed time.

Now I look at it, Miss Li continues to teach, and there are actually kind-hearted people giving medicine. It couldn't have come at a better time.

In the winter of the 25th year of Taihe, on November 17, the imperial army on the East Road set out to support Liaodong.

On November 20th, Li Xinhe and other students caused negative effects by gathering together to cause trouble. However, out of their own honour, they were held accountable by the Five Leaders and released on the spot without charge.

"What's going on? Didn't you say there are only five boards? Why is it so serious?" In the middle of teaching white wax oil, Li Xiaohan hurried to Renhetang.

Li Xinhe was sent here after he vomited blood on his way home.

"The injury on Li Juren's board was just a superficial injury, and it will be better after taking medicine. However, Li Juren had a serious illness before, and his body is already weak. He should have suffered a hidden injury in the past few days, which caused internal bleeding, and then He didn't take good care of himself, and the environment was not good, which led to fever. Now the five boards have just stimulated the injury." Doctor Zhang was not here, so Renhetang sent Doctor Han, whose medical skills were closely inferior to Doctor Zhang's.

"What should we do?" Li Xiaohan asked hurriedly.

"For now, we can only stop the bleeding first and then lower the fever." Dr. Han frowned.

"Doctor Han, just tell me what kind of medicinal materials you need." Zhang Fu said. It was obviously going very smoothly before, but I didn't expect something went wrong in the last few days, and I felt quite guilty.

""Yu Gao Yao Jie" records: Panax notoginseng and camp stop bleeding, unblock meridians and relieve congestion, relieve congestion and collect new blood. I know that Renhetang has a six-year-old Panax notoginseng that has been brewed. Since this is the case, we used it. "

Nowadays, the border is uneven, and the medicine for trauma is mostly used to support the front line. The plant left behind by Renhetang was also a coincidence.

"Sanqi?" Li Xiaohan was stunned for a moment, and then asked in a daze, "We have our own, fresh ones, isn't it better?"

"Panax Panax notoginseng is a natural and replenishing medicine, and the fresh one has the best medicinal properties. But Dr. Li Shizhen's pharmacopoeia says that this kind of medicinal material is innate and can never be exchanged for gold. It is also called precious. It is fate to encounter it." Dr. Han said to Li Xiaohan I was dubious, but Panax notoginseng was not as good as ginseng in terms of life-threatening consequences, but it was more symptomatic in stopping bleeding. What a coincidence.

"Doctor Han, please take the medicine first. We will go home and collect the medicine immediately, in about two hours." Li Xiaohan knew that this might be a coincidence, but there was no time to explain.

"Qingzhu, please help me go to my house quickly and tell my father that Xinhe needs it and ask him to pick those Panax notoginseng plants from the field right away."

Those plants were Panax notoginseng discovered while harvesting Eucommia ulmoides, but they were never dug up and kept for breeding every year.

"Yes. Miss Li." Qingzhu and others had been dealing with Li Xiaohan for a long time, and knew that Li Xiaohan never made big talk. They immediately responded and left quickly, rushing to Pingshan Village.

"Doctor Han, let's use other medicine first and wait for Panax notoginseng to come." Zhang Fu said.

He remembered that more than two years ago, when Li Xiaohan and his family entered Renhetang for the first time, they sold a few Panax notoginseng plants.

"Yes, Second Young Master." Doctor Han responded.

Renhetang drank a bowl of medicine, but Li Xinhe was still in a coma, occasionally coughing during illness, and still had blood foam.

Seeing this, Patriarch Li became even more anxious. Now he could only place his hope on what Li Xiaohan said.

About two hours later, Qingzhu, covered in snow, stepped into the gate of Renhe Hall. Before anyone could say anything, he took down a cloth bag beside him and took out several Panax notoginseng plants. "Miss Li, Mr. Li He said he didn't know how much to use, so he picked a lot. These three plants were picked from the wild field, and these three plants were picked from the woodland at home."

The green bamboo was returned in a hurry, but Li Xiandong was not sure how much to use. He was afraid of delaying things, and was also afraid that Li Xiaohan would also get into trouble, so he picked more.

Doctor Han's face was filled with confusion and puzzlement for a moment. When did these Panax notoginseng grow like a vegetable garden at home, he could pick as many as he wanted.

"Dr. Han, do you see?"

Everyone looked at Doctor Han together.

"Let me take a look." Doctor Han took the bag and took it out to see. The real one was Panax notoginseng. It was correct.

One of them is particularly good. It is already six years old and has fat roots and strong stems. The other two are more than four years old and are also very good. As for the other three plants, they are less than three years old, but their appearance is particularly good, and they can be used as medicine for three years.

"Yes, it's Panax notoginseng. I'll prescribe the medicine immediately." After confirming that it was the real Panax notoginseng, Doctor Han said immediately.

After saying this, everyone breathed a sigh of relief.

A quarter of an hour later, a bowl of Chinese medicine was poured into Li Xinhe's mouth. Fresh Panax notoginseng, which was slightly younger, was made into medicinal mud and applied to the injured area.

Xu Shi's fresh panax notoginseng was very effective in treating the symptoms. Xu Shi's doctor Han used the medicine skillfully, and Li Xinhe gradually stopped coughing up blood.

Several people breathed a sigh of relief.

In a deserted place, a look of hesitation and embarrassment gradually appeared on Qingzhu's face.

"Old Uncle Zhong, I saw a large area of Panax notoginseng grown in Miss Li's house. There are so many large areas that I can't count them."

Qingzhu even suspected that he had seen it wrong, but he was right. Li Xiandong led him and hurriedly dug up a few plants in the large area.

The medicine Panax notoginseng is very suitable for the disease.

Qingzhu's elders, colleagues, and brothers have all been injured or even lost their lives on the battlefield.

He knew that Miss Li had given too much, and Miss Li's family had so much trust in them. Speaking out was just to embarrass the young master and Miss Li.

However, one side is friendship, and the other side is human life. It is not just three or five plants, but a large area.

"What nonsense are you talking about? How can there be such a large area? Do you think you can grow vegetables at home?" Old Uncle Zhong scolded in a low voice.

"I looked at it, it was planted by someone at home." Qingzhu said hesitantly.

Not only are they planted, but they are also particularly well taken care of.

Old Uncle Zhong looked at Qingzhu intently for a long time. After confirming that Qingzhu had read and said it correctly, he was also greatly shocked.

If it came from Miss Li, it seems that it would not be impossible to grow it.

Even those with many years of experience, like Old Uncle Zhong, struggled to swallow a mouthful of saliva, and then said with difficulty, "You must tell the Young Master about this matter."

That night, Li Xinhe stopped coughing up blood and developed a high fever.

The fever doesn't stop.

=== Chapter === 141

"Why is this happening? Can't it go down even after taking medicine?"

Early the next morning, Li Xiaohan rushed over from Gumen Alley, and what he saw was Patriarch Li whose eyes were red from sleep.

"After taking the medicine, the fever went down for a while, and then the fever started again. I'm still unconscious." Patriarch Li said tiredly.

"Did Dr. Han look at it? Did the doctor tell me what the reason was?" Li Xiaohan pursed his lips and asked.

"I've seen it. It's said to be caused by cold evil entering the body, but I don't quite understand it. It means that this high fever is very dangerous if it cannot be cured." Although Patriarch Li was tired, he kept on answering. Now, all he can count on is Li Xiaohan.

Li Xiaohan frowned more and more nervously. High fever caused by external and internal injuries has always been dangerous since ancient times, especially since Li Xinhe's environment in the cell was not good. It was probably caused by various inflammations caused by bacterial infections. If it were in modern times, it might be a blood test to test white blood cells. Then anti-inflammatories and antiseptics come into play.

But this was ancient times, and there were no blood tests, broad-spectrum antibiotics, or anti-inflammatory drugs.

The more Li Xiaohan knew, the more powerless he became.

The two of them were silent when Zhang Fu came over, leading an old man with gray hair but who looked well-kept behind him.

"This is Dr. Ning from the palace. Dr. Ning came from the capital with the prince. He is very knowledgeable in medical skills. I asked him to come over and give Brother Xinhe a look." Zhang Fu introduced.

In fact, Dr. Ning is an imperial doctor who retired from the capital with King Ding. His medical skills are naturally superb, but now that he is old, it is not easy for him to come out.

Hearing that it was a doctor who came from the capital, Li Xiaohan and Patriarch Li cheered up, and there was hope visible to the naked eye.

Doctor Ning first observed Li Xinhe's injuries, then felt his pulse with his hand. Half a quarter of an hour later, Doctor Ning changed his hand again.

After taking the pulse, Dr. Ning asked Dr. Han how he was when he was delivered, what his pulse was like, how to use the medicine, and what the effect was after taking the medicine. Doctor Han reported everything clearly like a schoolboy. After thinking for a moment, Dr. Ning pointed out the modifications to the medicine, and then changed the prescription.

Doctor Han had no objection and asked for advice very respectfully.

When Li Xiaohan and Patriarch Li saw Doctor Han being so respectful, they already guessed that Doctor Daoning might have a good background, and felt even more at ease.

"Doctor, there is a local method in my hometown. When the patient's high fever persists, he can wipe his forehead, armpits and other places with alcohol to achieve a cooling effect. I wonder if we can try this together? Li Xiaohan asked cautiously.

"I have never heard of this method." Doctor Ning had doubts and confusion on his brows.

Zhang Fu quickly lowered his head and explained to Doctor Ning in a low voice the use of alcohol in traumatic injuries on the battlefield. Doctor Ning suddenly realized, "Oh, you are Miss Li, right? I have also heard of alcohol." Yeah, it's really effective in dealing with trauma. It turns out that the principle of disinfecting evil spirits is the same. If you want to try it, you can give it a try, but I can't guarantee its effectiveness."

Dr. Ning has lived in the palace for a long time and mostly treats the princesses and princes. He doesn't deal with injuries much. Although he has heard about alcohol, he has little contact with it.

Li Xiaohan smiled with difficulty. Li Xiaohan naturally knew that the evil spirits mentioned by the ancients were actually a collective name for some pathogenic factors. However, among people with persistent high fever, alcohol certainly has the effect of sterilization and disinfection, but the most important thing is It takes away heat from the human body through the volatilization of alcohol, and is a means of physical cooling.

However, I can't explain it clearly now.

"Thank you, Doctor Ning. Please excuse me, Doctor Ning." Li Xiaohan didn't dare to offend a doctor now. It would be best if Li Xinhe was cured of his illness immediately after taking Doctor Ning's medicine without using alcohol.

Doctor Ning wrote to prescribe the medicine, explained how to take the medicine, and then went back. He was a doctor in the palace. It was not easy for him to come out. Naturally, it was impossible to guard Li Xinhe and see what Li Xinhe did. The medicine is working.

However, fortunately, Dr. Han is still here at Renhetang, and Dr. Han is happy to pay attention to the effects of Li Xinhe's medication.

After taking the medicine, Chief Li Fang said, "Xiaohan, you go ahead."

He knew that at about this time every morning, Li Xiaohan had to go to the government office to teach him how to make Tiger Balm. Although Li Xinhe is sick now, many people have come from far away to listen to Li Xiaohan's teachings. If Li Xiaohan didn't go, those people would have waited in vain.

Li Xiaohan could come over early, and Zhang Fu could invite Dr. Ning, which is already very good.

Besides, it's enough to have Chief Li guarding here, and adding Li Xiaohan won't be of much use.

Li Xiaohan naturally understood this truth, and after a moment of silence he said, "Okay, clan leader, I'll go over there. If anything happens, send someone to me immediately. It doesn't matter. If there is any problem, we will find a solution immediately." "

"Yeah." Patriarch Li nodded.

After leaving the door, Zhang Fu said, "I will send someone to Pingshan Village later and ask them to prepare alcohol first. Is there anything else you want to do?"

Although the secret recipe for alcohol has been presented, most of the ready-made alcohol is still available in Pingshan Village Winery.

"Yes." Li Xiaohan was a little dazed and a little distracted, as if his whole mind was not here. He paused for a moment and then said, "Tell me, Auntie Li, to come up."

Zhang Fu had never seen Li Xiaohan like this before, and thought she was worried about Li Xinhe. After thinking about it, he said, "Doctor Ning is the imperial doctor who followed the prince to Dingcheng for retirement. He has profound knowledge in medical skills." ."

Li Xiaohan felt a little relieved when he heard that Dr. Ning was an imperial doctor. You know, of course, the top medical resources of this era cannot be easily mobilized. After all, if Hyundai wants to register a Beijing Union Medical College expert account, it will take a lot of trouble. Doctor Ning is obviously a bit higher than that.

However, some of them are limited by the times, and there is really no way. Maybe there is no need for Xiehe, just an ordinary top-level attending physician, who can deal with this post-injury fever situation better than Dr. Ning.

Li Xiaohan reluctantly picked up his energy and went to the government office for training. Now, she doesn't want to show any reassurance or comfort in front of Zhang Fu, because it's all fake. She doesn't feel at ease at all, and she doesn't want to bring up her emotions to comfort others.

She is very tired.

Watching Li Xiaohan's carriage go away, Zhang Fu looked worried. After thinking for a moment, he said:

"Qingsong, go to Pingshan Village to get alcohol and inform Patriarch Li's wife to pick her up and settle her down."

"Qingbai, rush to the front line immediately and bring Doctor Zhang back."

When he just sent Dr. Ning off, Zhang Fu asked about it. Dr. Ning didn't look completely sure. Of course, Zhang Fu could understand that doctors are cautious and don't talk too much, but even imperial doctors can't. 100% safe.

Zhang Fu knows that Dr. Zhang is extremely talented and committed to medical skills. Now he has been practicing on the battlefield for a long time. In terms of the use of alcohol and the treatment of trauma, Dr. Zhang cannot be said to be better than Dr. Ning.

Then he thought about snatching back a doctor with excellent medical skills like Dr. Zhang from the battlefield. It would be no different from snatching the hearts and minds of various generals. Zhang Fu thought about it for a while, and there was a biting coldness in his voice. , "If someone says that Dr. Zhang will not be allowed to come back, then tell me what I said. Is there anyone who has not used alcohol to save his life or used white wax to replace grain and cloth? And I promise that he will not use it in the future. , let's say this again . Drug and second issue 5281"

"Yes." Qingsong and Qingbai immediately responded respectfully, not daring to show any signs of neglect or action.

Qingzhu lowered his head and followed. Ever since he told the young master that Miss Li grew Panax notoginseng, the young master only said "shut your mouth" and nothing more. From then on, Qingzhu never received any orders and never left the Second Young Master's side.

At noon, Li Xiaohan came to Renhetang again after completing the Tiger Balm training.

After taking Dr. Ning's medicine, Li Xinhe's high fever gradually came down a little, and he even woke up for a while, but he was not quite sober.

Patriarch Li's wife has already arrived, replacing Patriarch Li at this moment. After all, Patriarch Li is old, and Patriarch Li is afraid of damaging his body after enduring it for so long.

"Auntie." Li Xiaohan felt quite guilty. After all, to a certain extent, Li Xinhe could be said to have been shot innocently and suffered on her behalf.

"Yes." Patriarch Li's wife held Li Xinhe's hand and replied after a long time.

There was almost nothing to say. After sitting for a while and asking Dr. Han some questions about Li Xinhe, Li Xiaohan went back.

When I returned to my home in Gumen Alley, I saw Li Xiandong and Wang already waiting, "Dad, Mom, why are you here?"

"Knowing that such a big thing happened to Xinhe and that you also have something to do in Fucheng, we simply came over to see if there was anything we could do to help." Li Xiandong and Wang said distressedly.

Li Xiaohan felt a little like crying for no reason, but he didn't cry in the end.

"Dad, Mom, it's great that you're here. I just need your help with something. Please help me peel the garlic. I want a lot of garlic."

"good."

Another day passed, and in the middle of the night, Li Xinhe started to have a fever again. Dr. Ning came to see me again and increased the dosage of medicine, but his expression became serious. Alcohol wipes were also used, but they could only lower the temperature temporarily, and they could not completely lower the temperature.

In addition to going to training on Tiger Balm, Li Xiaohan also went to Renhetang for three meals a day. When he returned to his home in Gumen Alley, like a numb and anxious person, he peeled garlic desperately, dried it with slow fire, and used Crush the medicine into powder, soak it in high-concentration alcohol, and try to absorb the upper liquid.

In this way, Li Xinhe's whole body quickly became thin and haggard during repeated high fevers. No need for the doctor to say it clearly, everyone knew that Li Xinhe's condition was developing in a worse and worse direction step by step.

At this time, Qingbai came back with Dr. Zhang, covered in wind and snow. As soon as he fell off the horse, he didn't have time to say anything except about Li Xinhe's condition, so he was taken directly to the hospital. Entered Li Xinhe's ward.

"It's no longer possible. I got an infection and a fever after the injury, and the disease went into my heart. Was it that the environment at that time was dirty and messy? This kind of injury is common on the battlefield. There is no problem with Doctor Ning's medication, but he can't control it. , can't snatch destiny."

However, what Dr. Zhang brought was not good news, but a straightforward announcement of the worst possibility.

"Ah!" Patriarch Li's wife wailed heart-wrenchingly. Patriarch Li burst into tears and his whole body was shaking.

"Doctor, please, please, please think of a way." Li Xiandong said quickly.

Doctor Zhang, Doctor Ning and Doctor Han looked at each other for a moment, communicated silently, and then all shook their heads.

There was despair.

"Patriarch, aunt, I have a medicine here, but I'm not sure. Do you want to give it to Brother Xinhe to try?"

Li Xiaohan felt that his voice was so erratic that he didn't know where it came from.

There is no time, no time to extract something more pure, no time to recall whether the calculation is correct or not, so we can only try desperately.

"try!"

The light yellow liquid, which was slightly oily and then had a strong taste, was fed into Li Xinhe's mouth three times a day.

Then Li Xiaohan began to pray to heaven. At that time, Li Xinhe was infected with one of Escherichia coli, Salmonella, Staphylococcus aureus, Shigella dysentery, Typhoid, Pneumococcus, Streptococcus, etc. She remembered , Allicin has a strong bactericidal effect on these.

Penicillin, she could no longer think of, and other broad-spectrum bactericides were huge technical difficulties that the technology tree of this era could not overcome.

"The fever seems to have dropped a little." This was Dr. Zhang's frowning diagnosis.

"That's right, but I tried it before and it dropped a little, and then it continued to burn back after a while." This was Doctor Ning's answer.

"It seems to have dropped?" Doctor Han said hesitantly.

Doctors Ning and Zhang each held the pulse of one side and remained silent. Then they both switched sides and spoke together after a moment, "It's down. Use medicine. Use the prescription to clear away heat, strengthen the root and strengthen the vitality."

Three days later, Li Xinhe opened his eyes slightly. Although he was weak, he shouted clearly, "Father, mother."

=== Chapter === 142

The sky is clear blue and there is snow under the eaves. There is no snow today, but the air is full of biting chill.

"What's wrong with Brother Xinhe?" Zhang Fu asked.

Li Xinhe finally woke up. Patriarch Li, Patriarch Li's wife, Li Xiandong, Wang and others were all standing around. There were also three doctors who were consulting. Zhang Fu couldn't get in, so he withdrew.

The moment he saw Li Xinhe wake up, he breathed a deep sigh of relief, and the big stone in his heart finally moved away a little. Zhang Fu even felt that he had come alive somewhere. Every time he thought about the possibility that Li Xinhe could not be rescued, he felt a deep fear. This fear was not because of Li Xinhe's death, but because of other impacts that Li Xinhe's death might have.

"Three doctors are watching. It should have passed the most difficult stage. From now on, it will be slowly restored. Let's see how much it can be restored." Li Xiaohan replied softly.

It's just that if someone is so seriously ill and doesn't take care of him for a year and a half, he won't be able to make it back.

Moreover, even if it is restored, it may not be restored to its original state. Li Xinhe became heavier twice in a row, each time heavier than the last. The human body is not data and can be restored to its original state in an instant. After all, some traces were left.

Obviously both of them are smart people and know this truth. For a moment, there was silence.

After a while, Zhang Fu said in a deep voice, "I'm sorry."

I'm sorry, I didn't fulfill my promise. The news I received was that the academic administration did not use torture, and the action was to ensure the safety of Li Xinhe and others first. However, the development of things did not go exactly as Zhang Fu wanted in the end. There were too many people involved and people were uncontrollable, which eventually led to this situation.

In fact, not only the enemies, but also his own men had other thoughts.

Zhang Fu felt ashamed and powerless for this.

In the past, he thought he could control everything, but now it seems that he is incompetent.

Li Xiaohan was silent for a while, and then he said, "I'm not qualified to say it's okay. I have no way to say it's okay."

The person who is qualified to speak has just come through the gate of hell and is lying inside.

Li Xiaohan didn't want to say it didn't matter.

"What do you want to do?" Zhang Fu asked softly.

Since things can't go according to his ideas, then he will fully assist and go according to her wishes.

"I need justice, and I need to learn to pay the same price." Li Xiao's voice was cold and firm.

In the past, she always felt that in this coming troubled world, in this feudal society where power was more important than human life, if she wanted nothing and had nothing, and gave what she earned, then she could avoid Open the whirlpool of struggle and create a paradise to live your life.

She can live her own little life in this peach blossom garden.

Now it seems that she is naive and has no strength to protect the Peach Blossom Spring. Even if she is still useful, she only relies on the protection of others. How can she protect others?

A good person who has not grown fangs is not only bullied by his enemies, but also does not pay much attention to his own people. Otherwise, why would Li Xinhe suffer this kind of torture?

The doctor had just asked in detail to find out the cause of the disease. Li Xinhe's punishment was all secret, and there were not even fatal wounds. What really caused Li Xinhe to become so seriously ill was that he was fed a lot of filth. .

This is a very mature way to kill people in the future. After all, according to the medical skills of this era, injuries that are hot and cannot be cured can sometimes be said to be life-threatening.

It would be foolish to really believe that you can avoid everything, knowing that someone is trying to kill you.

Li Xiaohan didn't know how heavy everything he had done in the past, such as white wax, alcohol, and tiger balm, was, but now that he had given it away, what he had given away was no longer his weight. After thinking about it, Li Xiaohan said, "You have also seen that I still have Panax notoginseng and allicin in my hands. Let's take a look at the results this time and let's talk about it again."

It is said that literature and martial arts belong to the emperor's family.

However, even an emperor must be able to afford the price.

At least, she still has the freedom to buy or not sell. At least, she can choose to keep these things sealed in the long river of history, waiting to be discovered again thousands of years later; or she can put all these things away. Announce it and let these things spread on the street. As for whether this world will become better or worse because of this, what does that have to do with her? There is no peace around her, and she can't care about other places. Dead or alive.

Hearing Panax notoginseng and allicin, Zhang Fu felt embarrassed for a while, and he couldn't even say anything in reply.

In the end, all I could say was, "Okay."

On November 28, Li Xiaohan filed a lawsuit against the school government to the government office, accusing the school government of coveting the secret recipe of her home brewing and lynching Li Xinhe, a student of the Li clan, causing Li Xinhe to be in critical condition.

There is an old saying: If you did evil in your previous life, the magistrate of the county was attached to Guo. The evil was so full that he was attached to the provincial capital of Guo. The magistrate of Qiu County in Dingcheng once felt that this sentence was wrong. After all, even though he was a county magistrate in Dingcheng, there was a magistrate on top, a provincial government on top of the magistrate, and a provincial government on the provincial government, and there were a lot of big bosses above him. Although he has no say, he does not need to make any decisions or bear any responsibilities. As long as he lets go of his pursuit, he can completely live his leisurely and step-by-step life.

However, now he feels that the wisdom of the ancients is absolutely correct, and his disaster has come.

Although he is only the head of a county, County Magistrate Qiu also knows that the Dingwang Mountain is high and the road is far away, and the master of this place is someone sent by the imperial court to study politics.

How could he, a seventh-rank county magistrate, take charge of a second-rank official?

It was just a joke. He was not blindfolded by lard. If it were normal, he would have beaten back the person who handed him the writ of paper.

However, the person who handed over the writ also knew that there was no one in Dingcheng who didn't know about Miss Li. From spring to winter at the government office, Miss Li had been teaching about white wax. Besides, there was some vague news. Anyway, although they never said it, everyone knew in their hearts that Miss Li had a very close relationship with the military.

If he beats Miss Li out, someone will come to trouble him before he leaves the county government office. After he leaves the county government office, someone will secretly throw rotten vegetables and rotten eggs at him. It's not impossible. He works in the government office every day, and no one knows better than him how respected Miss Li is in the eyes of the common people.

Therefore, not only could he not beat Miss Li out, he even asked the Yamen servant to bring a stool to Miss Li. Of course, Li Xiaohan did not sit down.

However, during this evasion, Qiu Zhixian had already thought of a countermeasure, "Miss Li, this matter is very important and I have no right to deal with it. But don't worry, I will inform the superiors immediately and will not delay Miss Li's decision." thing."

So smart! Although he had to accept Miss Li's paper, he could pass it up. There are so many big guys above, how can he get his turn?

So, Li Xiaohan withdrew and waited for news. Even after Li Xiaohan withdrew, he continued to go to the government office and continued to teach Ten Thousand Gold Oil Prescriptions. After all, the weather was good today, and many civilians who had come from afar were still waiting.

After the prefect received the petition from the county magistrate, he almost wanted to kill this subordinate, but the county magistrate convinced him, "Sir, if we don't even accept Miss Li's petition, it will be our fault. But, After receiving it, we really can't handle it beyond the next level, so the right thing to do is to pass it up."

"Yes, it makes sense. As the parents and officials of a place, how can we fear the power and ignore it? We are just asking for orders from the superiors for the people."

So, the papers were passed up layer by layer, and finally reached Prince Ding's Mansion.

Since the imperial court had sent troops to support Liaodong, Dingcheng Guards Station did not need to be so nervous. King Ding took the time to return to Prince Ding's Mansion.

On the first day of the new moon, the chief secretary, the capital commander, the guards, the government, the prefecture, and the county miscellaneous officials all waited at the palace to see them, and this piece of paper came to King Ding.

"Cheng'an, why didn't you report this matter in advance for such a big matter? Miss Li's petition has stirred up all the conflicts."

The Palace Council is not as formal as the imperial court. Besides, Prince Ding is a military commander. He doesn't like red tape and likes to talk about things. Be quick, otherwise the Prince may not be in the Palace next time.

Zhang Fu walked out with a low eyebrow and a flat voice, "I have persuaded you. I have not persuaded you. I have said it before. I hope you will act with caution. You must protect Li Xinhe's life first. No, I have not done it." . The assistant position is low and the power is weak, so it is difficult for him to take on a big responsibility."

The person who spoke was so angry that he was half-dead. Now, in the entire Dingcheng military generals, who were not relying on Zhang Fu's military supplies, he actually said that he was in a humble position.

"Forget it, it's happened. It's useless to talk about it. The most important thing now is how to resolve this matter. So is Miss Li's clan brother's injury really so serious? Miss Li has such a good relationship with her clan brother, Is there no possibility of reconciliation?"

"Dr. Zhang, Dr. Ning and Dr. Han had a consultation. All the pulse records and medications were found here. It was really a narrow escape. Miss Li is very close to her clan brother, and she was extremely disappointed." Zhang Fu did not lower his head anymore, but He raised his head and spoke sternly.

As a result, no one no longer doubted the seriousness of the matter, and no one wanted to turn this matter into a trivial matter.

"Your Majesty, alcohol can save a lot of lives, and now it has been found to be useful. Miss Li has already offered the alcohol. We must not do anything to kill the donkey."

Unexpectedly, the first person to speak out was General Chen, a man under King Ding who rarely talked.

"Your Majesty, to this day, Miss Li is still teaching tiger balm at the government office. We should be cautious about the direction of the people."

"It's just that if we want to deal with the academic affairs, we have to face each other openly."

"If we're right, we'll be right. If we're not right, the court will still look down upon us. That Lao Shizi studies politics and does these little tricks right under his nose. I've been displeased with him for a long time."

…

King Ding took off his daily armor and put on casual clothes. He sat on the collapse and watched the people below making a lively noise. Generally speaking, most of the military officers supported Li Xiaohan, while the civil servants sought compromise and relief.

King Ding narrowed his eyes slightly. In October, he wrote a memorial saying that the winter was cold and it was difficult for the soldiers on the border to survive. He asked the court to send more cotton-padded clothes and other winter supplies this year. However, the memorial was never received. reply.

Later, after the pewter harvest began, Zhang Fu worked together to transport a lot of cotton from the south of the Yangtze River, made cotton clothes and sent them over. This winter, no one died from frostbite in the military camp.

He also thought about the difficult situation on the Liaodong border after the Battle of Liaodong. He submitted a memorial asking the court to allow him to increase troops and support Liaodong nearby to prevent the situation from getting worse. Unexpectedly, this time a reprimanding note arrived immediately, telling him to take good care of it. The soldiers of the Western Tartars.

Nowadays, most of the land in Liaodong has been lost. Although the imperial court has sent troops, it is difficult to regain it without a bloody battle. The most fearful thing is that if the imperial army on the East Route is defeated, the pressure on the city will be great.

Fortunately, as alcohol can easily catch fire, we have sent people to research how to use it, and I think it can be of some use.

…

"What's the fuss about?" King Ding scolded impatiently, "Since we have the pleadings and the evidence, we just need to find out the facts and submit them to the superiors. When I rule the city, it is rare that I can only wrong my own people. , then why did everyone work so hard in the past?"

"The prince said so!"

Soon, the palace sent people to Li Xiaohan to collect evidence, and even the matter of Li Lanhua was found out. To Li Xiaohan's expectation, Li Lanhua heard about it and immediately jumped on the spot. Orally, she also showed the scars left behind, saying that the government sent her to steal the secret recipe when she came back. There is also the case of Li Xinhe, and the executioner of the day was recruited.

Within two days, the Xue Government was surrounded by troops, and the evidence was quickly sent to the court.

Li Xiaohan then knew that he had probably won. I think I am of the Dingwang lineage here, and it has some uses.

=== Chapter === 143

There is nothing to do in winter, and it is rare to have a little leisure time in the year. People in Dingcheng gather in small groups to chat. There is that gossip again, which is hot for a while.

"Did you hear this? Miss Li filed a complaint against the academic administration." The visitor said quietly.

"I've heard it a long time ago. I didn't believe it before, but now the student government residence has been surrounded." Many people who heard it were disdainful, and the news had spread long ago.

"Because of what? Do you know?" This is a person who is not very well-informed.

"It is said that the academic administration coveted Miss Li's family's brewing recipe. Since it was difficult to deal with Miss Li directly, he abducted Miss Li's cousin and arrested Miss Li's clan brother and lynched him." Someone explained.

"Ah, that's what happened. Didn't it say that Miss Li's clan brother got in because of the incident at Qingshan Academy?" The source of this information is wrong.

"That's all a cover-up. Miss Li's brother is a farmer. If it weren't for the secret recipe, he would have been arrested together with Mr. He's son and the others. I heard that he was beaten to half death, and he almost didn't save him. He was tortured to extract a confession." The person who spoke sighed softly.

"Where did you get the news? Is it reliable?"

"My cousin's father-in-law's brother-in-law's neighbor works as a handyman in Renhetang. I heard that three doctors consulted him and it was very serious."

The authenticity of the matter was confirmed, and the people gathered around denounced it one after another.

"This is so, it's too much! Bullying people like this."

"No, the two officials below are too greedy."

"Has it been judged?"

"Not yet. They are surrounded. They say the evidence has been submitted and they are waiting for the court's decision."

"Then we have to help keep an eye on them. We can't let these people go in vain."

After another long while, someone asked hesitantly, "If we even send people to snatch a brewing recipe and learn political science, wouldn't it mean that the white wax recipe and tiger balm recipe that Miss Li teaches us every day will be a big loss."

"More than that, think about it. In the spring and summer, we had a severe drought and a poor harvest, but we came here without any danger. I heard from people at the inn that ships from the south of the Yangtze River came here to exchange for white wax, and they brought It's all shiploads of food, otherwise how could it be so smooth?"

After hearing this, everyone began to feel serious and their eyes began to look respectful.

"All my brothers have learned the recipe for Tiger Balm. My seventy-year-old mother can't live without that Tiger Balm. In the past, she always complained that this place doesn't feel good, but now she takes it out by herself. After applying Tiger Balm ointment, I feel much better."

"Yes, my uncle's eldest son from the country went to do corvee work. I heard that he survived the cold with the tiger balm sent from home. Otherwise, those who lack medical treatment will have to shed at least a layer of their skin, and maybe they will get sick. Leave hidden dangers behind."

"No. Speaking of this, we all have to thank Miss Li. We have received such great benefits without paying a penny."

"That's the truth. By the way, when will the academic administration be judged? We can't delay it, right?"

"I don't know. Hey, what are you doing picking up those rotten vegetables?"

"Oh, I was passing by the government school and threw it at his door."

"...Give me some. I heard rotten eggs are better."

"Where can I leave the eggs until they stink? I have already eaten them. The eggshells have been thrown into the manure pit and composted, but you can keep them next time."

And there are those deep folk alleys.

"Son, what are you doing with a branch? Go back to study and learn to read."

"Dad, I want to practice martial arts well and fight bad guys in the future."

"Where are the bad guys? You just find a reason to play."

"No, there are many bad people, and Xuezheng is the bad person."

"...Okay, you can practice. If you don't do your homework before I come back tonight, I will beat you up."

Because of the official attitude of not prohibiting it or even acquiescing to it, even a three-year-old child to a seventy-year-old man in Dingcheng can speak a few sentences. Li Xiaohan also received many pitiful looks and greetings, so much so that she didn't dare to go out these days.

However, the teaching of Tiger Balm is inevitable.

"Miss Li, be careful. If anything happens, just call someone." A strong man said, while sweeping around the people around him, as if he was looking for the person with evil intentions, to find him and beat him up first.

"Miss Li, this is an old hen raised by our family. You can take it back and recuperate it for your brother."

Li Xiaohan immediately avoided it. The old lady looked not very wealthy. This old hen might be her egg bank. "No, no, the doctor said he can only eat plain porridge."

"That's it." The old lady was very disappointed, "Then you can make up for it, you've already lost weight."

"No, no, no, my mother is raising her. Thank you, aunt." Li Xiaohan refused repeatedly and quickly got on the carriage.

The carriage drove slowly and arrived at Renhetang first. In the past few days, Li Xinhe's condition has improved a lot.

Although Dr. Ning is not as good as Dr. Zhang in terms of trauma, he is absolutely top-notch in caring for people. In addition, Renhetang's medicinal materials were used like running water. Although Li Xinhe was still lying on the bed, Li Xiaohan and others finally felt relieved.

However, Li Xinhe's condition got better, but none of the three doctors left, especially every time they saw Li Xiaohan, his hesitant expression, and his longing look.

Anyway, without knowing what the secret medicine Li Xiaohan took out that day, the three doctors were reluctant to leave.

Faced with such a situation, Li Xiaohan could only harden his heart and turn a blind eye. Her allicin has other uses, just forget it for a few doctors.

Besides, it's a bit unethical to ask someone to help Li Xinhe take care of his health, but I have to say that doing bad things is inexplicably satisfying.

Seeing Li Xiaohan come in, the three doctors walked out very wisely. As they walked, Dr. Zhang and Dr. Ning were still discussing. As for Dr. Han, he could only interject a few words from time to time, and most of the time he could only listen.

"Xiaohan, I heard about the academic affairs. Is it too risky for you to do this?" Li Xinhe asked while lying on his pillow with a slightly raised pillow.

"Brother Xinhe, who told you?"

"My dad." Speaking of this, Li Xinhe felt a little embarrassed, "My dad scolded me, saying that I wasn't stable enough. If I hadn't gone to Lao Shizi's seminar, I wouldn't have been caught. It won't cause this series of things."

Forehead. Patriarch Li is indeed very fierce.

"The patriarch is also doing it for your own good." Li Xiaohan explained helpfully, then paused for a moment and asked, "Brother Xinhe, do you regret it?"

"It's not that I regret it very much. The national crisis is facing us. Although we can't go on the field to fight, we still have the power to speak out. Besides, everyone is silent. Then when it is the turn of the city to be conquered, how can we expect others Speak up. However, I am not cautious enough after all, and I don't even notice that there are people studying politics lurking around me."

Li Xiaohan showed the only truly relaxed smile in these days, and couldn't explain what he was saying, "Brother Xinhe, I am a professional, how can I let you, a scholar, notice it."

"I don't regret the problem you mentioned. I think it was worth it."

"I'm just afraid that if you are exposed, you will encounter more dangers." Li Xinhe said worriedly. If one scholar falls, there may be others.

"Don't worry about this, Dingcheng will probably do its best to protect me now." Li Xiaohan smiled.

In the past, she had been doing good deeds and constantly using white wax, alcohol, and tiger balm to increase her reputation. Although she had a good reputation among the people, she had never regretted taking this path. After all, she was too weak to trade anything. , are no different than a child holding onto gold in the busy city. Rather than being given away three melons and two dates by others, it is better to use it to cast a layer of armor for yourself.

In fact, she was right, but she didn't expect that the people around her would be indirectly implicated.

However, not everyone will be grateful. For some people, it will just become a habit. Although these people are only part of it, they exist at the top and have the power to influence the people around her.

Now, she wants these people to lower their heads.

Thinking of this, Li Xiaohan smiled even happier, "When will they come to me?"

Li Xinhe has been taking allicin for the past few days, and he dare not stop taking the medicine all at once, for fear that the bacterial infection will counterattack, and it will be even more troublesome if it becomes resistant.

Since we have investigated Li Xinhe's pulse and medication, we naturally also know the existence of Panax notoginseng and allicin. Li Xiaohan didn't believe that anyone in Dingcheng wouldn't be tempted by such a symptomatic medicinal material, but now he was worried and didn't find the time to tell her.

She did not expect to keep Panax notoginseng and allicin as a secret. What would she do with so many Panax notoginseng? They were originally grown to sell, but now, she needed to sell them at a good price.

There is also allicin. Now that she has extracted it, mass production is not a problem. It's just that this medicinal material is restricted by too many factors and difficult to preserve for a long time. She has to think carefully about how to maximize the benefits.

"You make your own decision, but you must also ensure your own safety. Who knows who is hiding in the dark." Li Xinhe warned.

"I understand, Brother Xinhe, please take a good rest. I'll go back first." Li Xiaohan said.

After talking like this, Li Xinhe's face looked a little tired, and Li Xiaohan said goodbye and left.

As soon as he exited the gate of Renhetang, he saw Zhang Fu already waiting.

Regarding Zhang Fu, Li Xiaohan's inner feelings are a bit complicated.

In the past, I felt that this person was not lacking in background, ability, and status. Although Li Xiaohan had been cooperating with him, deep down in his heart, Li Xiaohan actually retained this subconscious guard - this kind of high-ranking person. Although there is a temporary handover between people, in essence, they do not feel like they are on the same road.

Li Xiaohan has no tendency to ask for trouble.

However, this time, it was clear that Zhang Fu had guaranteed Li Xinhe's safety, but failed to do so in the end. Although he knew that the current situation was too chaotic and the forces were too complicated, and it was not Zhang Fu's fault, Li Xiaohan could not help but feel a trace of resentment in his heart. .

Li Xiaohan only realized this trace of resentment after Li Xinhe woke up and found that he had been giving Zhang Fu a cold face and showed his tiredness and indifference without any pretense.

But Zhang Fu probably realized it at that time. Compared with the previous high-spirited and confident self-confidence that everything was under control, he became much calmer.

Become humble and submissive in silence.

It was a wonderful feeling. Li Xiaohan even thought that she felt wrong for a while, but later she discovered that she did not feel wrong.

Li Xiaohan didn't understand why this inversion of inner perception occurred.

However, this feeling made her feel a little shaky and trembling.

Just like this moment, I saw Zhang Fu waiting in front of the carriage. He was dressed in dark clothes, with an upright figure and deep brows. Perhaps due to running around and being tired all day long, his whole body has become much thinner; and because of his confrontation with others, his whole body has lost the gentle disguise he once had, and has become sharp, cold, and handsome. Near people.

Pedestrians passing by didn't dare to look directly at it, so they only dared to lower their heads and walk quickly. When they were far away, they couldn't help but turn back quietly.

However, it was such a person. As soon as Li Xiaohan stepped out of the door, he immediately turned his head and looked over without blinking.

Li Xiaohan only saw his own figure in these dark eyes.

The flying eagle looks back because of me, and the mountains bow their heads for me.

=== Chapter === 144

Common people are still talking about brewing recipes, white wax, and tiger balm. Well-informed people already know the existence of Panax notoginseng and allicin.

Dr. Zhang from Renhe Hall and Dr. Ning from the Prince's Mansion joined forces. One was a world-renowned expert who had just returned from the battlefield, and the other was an authoritative imperial physician who had retired. They both identified a hopeless high fever, and were thus treated by a mysterious man. Medicine brought him back.

What is this concept? !

It was the King of Hell who said that people would die at the third watch, but it said that people could not die, and then snatched it back by force.

No one dares to say that he will not have any accidents or that he will not be in need.

As a result, the trial regarding the academic affairs case was accelerated even faster by this undercurrent.

This is human nature, and human nature is what it is, so there is no need to worry about it.

The reaction from the imperial court was also very quick, because it was indeed true, and the evidence provided by Dingcheng was also complete. There was no need to quarrel too deeply with a scholar, thinking that the imperial court really wanted to protect this person. Isn't this right? It's not a self-inflicted mistake.

Therefore, he abandoned the second-grade academic administration on the charge that he was greedy for secret recipes to make money for himself.

However, since Dingcheng is so shameless and insists on bringing out this secret contest, there are many other ways to counterattack. Although the feudal king cannot be killed at once, there are many ways to disgust people.

The Ministry of Personnel also drew up a list of officials whose terms were about to expire within the jurisdiction of Dingcheng this year. This year, the examination of the Ministry of Household Affairs was much stricter. Many officials had to calculate their salaries, keep books, and publicize their deeds. , everything was re-evaluated. As a result, naturally it won't look too good.

The household department started to work overtime again. Before closing the book during the New Year, many vacancies were discovered. Many refugees and bandits in the capital were rectified, and even the armaments sent to Liaodong were greatly accelerated. But as a result, the treasury is almost empty. The support allocated to other departments in the coming year will be much slower.

Even the Supervisory Council received many more impeachments against the vassal king. It was just that King Ding left the guardhouse without authorization and King Qi spent extravagantly. Forget it, it's not painful or itchy, the mountain is high and the emperor is far away, and both princes know that their grandson's nephew is not very worried about them, so they can just play it.

Of course, these are things in the future, but even if they find out in the future, Li Xiaohan will say that this is the cost they should pay. Sugarcane has never been sweet at both ends, and no one can have both. .

At this moment, what was before Li Xiaohan was that the charge of studying politics had been decided, and he was about to be escorted back to Beijing for processing. Before leaving, Zhang Fu came over and asked how she wanted to deal with it.

"I can do whatever I want?" Li Xiaohan asked softly with a little doubt and a little uncertainty.

Could it be that even a second-grade official, after being reduced to a prisoner, would not be tried according to the national legal system, but could he be allowed to do anything privately as a civilian?

"Yes, everything is fine." Zhang Fu's voice was affirmative, as if he was talking about a normal thing, but also had a depraved tone.

Oh, it turns out that a fallen phoenix is really worse than a chicken, Li Xiaohan thought to himself.

"Then I want to do it again. What happened to Brother Xinhe will remain the same on Xuezheng. Let's do it again." Li Xiaohan heard his own voice with a hint of malice and a hint of revenge, and slowly said.

Once upon a time, those who had been educated in civilization and order since childhood, and whose cognition was framed in the law and social values, and the gauze that the rule of law society wore, were peeled off from her soul layer by layer.

She sacrificed her life to attend the meeting, wielded the knife of power, and became a member of this era.

"Okay." Zhang Fu said softly but firmly.

It's so bright and kind. Even if you fall into the darkness, you have never sinned against others, you just have to do it all over again.

So, this is a cognitive bias.

On the day when the scholar was escorted back to Beijing, before departure, the scholar asked to see Li Xiaohan for the last time. Li Xiaohan thought for a while, he had to go see his defeated opponent and see the reason for his transformation.

Xuezheng was already very weak at this moment, with his eyes closed tightly, leaning against the fence. At first glance, I really couldn't recognize him. He was the serious-looking court official from that day.

Before Li Xiaohan, Doctor Zhang's finger had just left the academic circle.

"This is it?" Li Xiaohan asked doubtfully. Could it be that Dr. Zhang needs to treat him personally? What has changed?

"Doctor Zhang said he wanted to come and see what the disease was like to make sure the final symptoms were exactly the same." Zhang Fu explained.

In fact, Dr. Zhang was very research-minded and participated in the entire process. He even compared it with Dr. Ning's record of Li Xinhe's pulse to ensure that Xuezheng, who had not used the miracle drug, was already on the road to death.

This... crazy medical scientist, a madman who would do anything for research.

Li Xiaohan was in awe of Dr. Zhang at this moment and decided that he would not offend Dr. Zhang by offending anyone from now on.

Hearing the human voice, Xuezheng struggled to open his eyes. There was no obvious trauma on his body, but he felt himself getting weaker and weaker, but there was a fire starting to burn from his internal organs and lungs.

This was the punishment he had ordered people to use before, so he naturally knew what it meant.

After decades of ups and downs in his career, he strictly guarded against the possibility of capsizing, but he never imagined that he would capsize on a village girl in Dingcheng.

So quickly, everything in the past was ruined.

Thinking of this, Xuezheng's eyes showed unwillingness, pain and hatred.

"I think you should understand that the winner is the king and the loser is the enemy." Li Xiaohan asked. Isn't this the rule for these people?

It was indeed the case, but I didn't expect that I was the one who lost.

Academic administration finally fell down powerlessly.

"Your injury can be cured. My clan brother can now stand up." Li Xiaohan said without emotion. This was the purpose of her last trip here - to give the final blow.

Xuezheng suddenly opened his eyes wide, with disbelief, extravagant hope and prayer in his eyes. All the pursuits of power have turned into extravagant hopes for life. No one wants to die in the end.

"It's a pity that my Li family's medicine cannot save Li family's enemies." Li Xiaohan said softly.

Went to the palace for a meeting again.

"What on earth is allicin? And Panax notoginseng, since it has such miraculous effects, why can't we think of a way to do it?"

No matter how shameless, no one told Li Xiaohan to give the secret recipe at the meeting.

After all, Li Xiaohan can be asked to give up his secret recipe today, Zhang Xiaohan can be asked to give up his wealth tomorrow, and Wang Xiaohan can be asked to give up his life the next day.

They all have to put on a civilized cloak of equivalent exchange and find a high-sounding reason.

Otherwise, who can guarantee that he will not be the next Li Xiaohan in the future?

This is a rule that everyone will uphold. Even if this rule is sometimes fragile, everyone lives under this rule, so everyone is upholding this rule.

But no one said anything.

Therefore, Zhang Fu was unfortunately named, but he had been the one dealing with Li Xiaohan before.

"Master Xiao Zhang, why don't you tell me how to deal with it?" The only person standing here who can be called Master Xiao Zhang is Zhang Fu.

"What can I say? Arms procurement is nothing more than money. Please allocate funds." Zhang Fu was very serious.

Everyone was silent for a while. If they were rich, why would they be able to talk so much here? The border land was not rich to begin with. After the grandson came to power, he kept deducting money again and again. Now everyone is living a tight life.

I also knew that the price of this unique miracle medicine would not be very cheap. Even if the palace could raise a little money, it would not be able to give much.

"Ahem, is there no other way?"

"If you don't have money, you can only get rewards." Zhang Fuping said calmly.

"Nonsense, she is a woman who doesn't feel at ease at home and does housework as a female celebrity. In the future, she will take care of her husband and raise her children. Could it be that she wants to rely on her own body to get the job? It's really unbecoming of a hen Si Chen." Some people jumped on the spot. come out.

Zhang Fu raised his eyelids coolly and glanced at the red-faced man, "I heard that Mr. Wang's mother, wife, and daughter are all An Annu's husbands and sons. Mr. Wang actually conjured up money and armaments."

You say women can't do it, but you can do it on your own.

"Zhang Fu! You, you, you..." Mr. Wang pointed at Zhang Fu, trembling.

"Cheng'an, you must not be rude." As a last resort, Zhang Zhen could only step forward to stop the two women. It's really strange. Didn't my son always stick to the gentle and elegant disguise? Why did he end up going home and sharpening his knives when he was fifteen or sixteen?

Zhang Fu lowered his head, not knowing whether to give his father face or something else, and stopped talking.

As a result, all the adults present knew that this time, it was not as cheap as before, and you could get prescriptions or medicines without spending a penny.

Prince Ding, who was at the top, rubbed his frowning brows with both hands and said, "Cheng'an, go and follow up and see what the details are."

"Your Majesty, this is not an example! Once he reverses the yin and yang, won't he make people laugh and leave a name of laughter for eternity?" Mr. Wang shouted hoarsely and was filled with anger.

"Master Wang, you look down on women like this, but you must persist and don't use medicine from people you look down on. Miss Li said that the medicine of the Li family will not save the enemies of the Li family." Zhang Fu said with a sneer.

"You..." Mr. Wang was so angry that he couldn't even speak. He didn't know whether he was angry or afraid that there was really no medicine available.

There were three or two people who wanted to speak and wanted to express their opposition. As soon as these words came out, they decided to keep their mouths shut. Forget it, let's wait until the details are discussed. If Zhang Fu says not to use the Li family's medicine now, he can't forcefully say that he won't use it.

After all, politics is all about compromise, and there is no need to risk your life for it.

King Ding, who was on the collapse floor, glanced around and saw that except Mr. Wang who was so angry that he could not speak, the others were either bowing their heads and being speechless, or frowning and thinking, "In this case, Cheng'an and Chang Let's discuss it with Shi and come up with a deal."

"Is there anything else? If not, let's break up."

"Your Majesty, my subordinate has something to do..."

When the regular meeting ended and everyone left, Zhang Fu walked out alone. Even his father, Zhang Zhen, didn't want to go with him.

The second son didn't know if he was too irritated, and now he was covered in thorns. Maybe if something went wrong, even he, the father, would be thorned, so it was better not to provoke him.

It would be better for the eldest son who is in the guardhouse. If anything happens, it will be over in one fight.

Zhang Zhen avoided his second son and walked out, but saw a young man walking over without fear of death.

Hey, Fu boy, aren't they two at odds?

Zhang Zhen pricked up his ears. His son's martial arts skills were not as good as those of the Fu family. If a fight broke out and a fight broke out, he, the father, was not allowed to step forward to stop the fight.

Sure enough, as soon as the Fu boy said something, "Zhang Chengan, you defend Miss Li so much, is it because you like Miss Li? Or do you still feel that when you were still wearing women's clothes at the age of six, when others talked about your husband? Godson, are you going to get angry?"

Ah, as expected, a fight is about to begin. Zhang Zhen looked around nervously. Very good, he had gone far, and there were not many people around him.

My wife was seriously ill for a while, and she always said that her second son was the eldest daughter whom we had no chance to meet, and that her son had been wearing women's clothing for a while.

Since the second son grew up, no one in the house dared to mention this matter. If the Fu family boy mentioned this, his son would definitely go crazy.

If a fight breaks out, how will he break it up?

Here, Zhang Zhen was very nervous, but Zhang Fu was very calm, "Fu Zhen, I heard that you said you wanted to marry me when you were a child. After you found out that I was a boy, you rolled on the ground and cried for three days. You can't. Now Still can't let go?"

"Fart, I was only eight years old at the time. I was fooled when I was young and ignorant."

"Oh. Just put it down, otherwise I'll beat you up now."

Back then, Zhang Fu was weak, but he had a lot of tricks. Fu Zhen, who was two years older, could only be repaired.

Xu Shitong thought of the past, Zhang Fu sneered and strode away, leaving Fu Zhen and Fu Qianhu behind who were extremely angry.

There was no fighting, which was great. Zhang Zhen wiped away the cold sweat and strode away. He said that his son was very thorny and the Fu family boy never got a lesson. It was true.

But my son's carriage was not going home. Forget it, it's okay if you don't go home, otherwise it will be difficult to get along with you.

Zhang Fu, who didn't go home, went all the way to Gumen Alley and saw nothing stinging at all.

"It's a little difficult, but it should be possible."

"Don't worry, let's take it as it comes." Li Xiaohan returned to his original self. The great revenge has been avenged. There is no need for her to keep herself trapped in negative emotions just because of this.

Zhang Fu frowned slightly. He should be happy when he returned to the past, but unconsciously, a hint of impetuousness and bitterness arose in his heart.

It's fine now, but the Li Xiaohan who once bluntly expressed that he was tired and indifferent seemed to be the real one.

"What's wrong with you?" Seeing that Zhang Fu didn't speak, Li Xiaohan asked, is it difficult to handle?

"Nothing." Zhang Fu shook his head.

"Don't be anxious, things will go well if you take things slow." Li Xiaohan comforted him.

Sure enough, things took a turn for the better.

But, maybe no one wants this turn of events.

On the seventh day of the twelfth lunar month in the 25th year of Taihe, Xitar and Beizhou secretly joined forces to ambush and attack the imperial army on the east route. The east route army was defeated and Liaodong Prefecture fell across the board.

Dingcheng is in danger, and the Wei Dynasty is in danger.

=== Chapter === 145

When news of the fall of Liaodong came, the Wei Dynasty fell into panic.

In the dark, it seems that history is repeating itself.

In the previous dynasty before the Wei Dynasty, this land was briefly ruled by foreigners. It was a humiliating and tragic history. The native people on this land were treated as second class and tools.

The rule of the aliens only lasted a hundred years, but it was still a turbulent century. It still brought about the consequences of a sharp decline in population and loss of life. It was not until His Majesty rose up and drove the aliens out of the country that the people of this land could live in peace. day.

However, the pain and fear caused by the previous rule still linger in everyone's hearts.

Xita and Beizhou are the two strongest ethnic groups surrounding the border line of the Wei Dynasty. Therefore, King Ding and Liaodong Guards Station will be heavily stationed.

In addition, Xita and Beizhou already have a very long and strong history of hatred, and there are constant turmoils and wars between the two parties. With the addition of the Wei Dynasty, the three parties have always been at odds, and there has always been a dynamic stalemate.

Now Xita and Beizhou actually conspired privately to capture Liaodong, with the sword designated city, and the Wei Dynasty faced two enemies together in an instant.

Moreover, not only did Liaodong fall, but the imperial army on the East Road was actually surrounded and relocated.

You must know that the imperial court has five armies in the southeast, northwest, and middle directions. The Liaodong Guards Station is the North Route Army, Dingcheng is the West Route Army, the East Route Army is the army supporting Liaodong this time, the South Route Army has been fighting against the pirates, and finally the The Central Route Army, which has the largest number of people and is the most powerful, protects the capital and the imperial city, and generally only quells civil strife.

This time, the North Route Army represented by Liaodong and the supporting East Route Army were destroyed. The Wei army directly lost three-fifths. This price was more than tragic.

And when Xita and Beizhou continued to invade, the closest one would be the Western Route Army where King Ding was located. Normally, the West Route Army can only draw a draw against the Xita tribe. Now, facing the Xita and Beizhou tribes, the West Route Army does not know how long it can sustain.

Now the only ones that can support Dingcheng are the Chinese Army and the South Route Army. The Chinese Army needs time to prepare. The South Route Army has been fighting on the water in the south. It is very unsuitable to the climate and terrain of the northwest. The fighting methods are also different. The Upper West Tartar and Beizhou cavalry have no advantage.

Once the Western Route Army cannot support the Chinese army to support it, and the Wei Dynasty loses another army, it will be difficult to resist the Xita and Beizhou coalition forces, and the Wei Dynasty will be shaky and the building will collapse.

These are high-level interpretations. What most people saw was that on the day Liaodong fell, the entire Dingcheng felt that the sky in the north was dark. There were streaks of beacon smoke that blackened the sky. .

And looking up, on the palace of the highest palace in Dingcheng, homing pigeons were flapping their wings and falling continuously. This was an emergency at the border, and the flying pigeons were constantly transmitting the latest news.

At the gate of Dingcheng, 800 miles of hastening war horses rolled up yellow dust and leaped towards it. It was a border emergency document for those who blocked it, died for those who resisted, killed the horse, and wasted the people.

Shops are closed, women are panicking, children are crying, every door is closed, and there is nowhere to stay in panic.

"Xiaohan, what should we do? Do you want to go home immediately?" Wang said anxiously.

In fact, there is no use in going home, but going home is the first reaction of people under fear. Home is the last refuge and the safe haven in the heart.

"Mom, you and dad go home first, I have to wait here." Li Xiaohan returned.

She had to wait for the appointment and requirements of the palace and the latest news before she could make a decision.

She has no memory of this war at all. Was it because her cousin in her previous life didn't tell her this part of the story, so she had no impression of it? Or is it the changes caused by butterfly wings? The war situation in the original book is not so critical?

She now only hopes that it is the former, so if it is not mentioned, then the war happened according to the trajectory of the original book. Although she does not know the past, the final outcome is that Wei won.

Because only when the Wei Dynasty wins, will there be a fight between King Ding and Taisun later.

No matter what, she has to wait here. When the war breaks out, the news here is the fastest. As well as Panax notoginseng and allicin, she has to wait for King Ding's solution - when the war breaks out, the news will be the first time. It is necessary to send troops and generals for defense first, and then medicines and food must follow immediately.

"Then we'll wait for you, our family must be together." Wang said tremblingly.

Li Xiaohan pursed his lips and said comfortingly, "Mom, don't worry. If you want to come down from Liaodong, you have to pass through the danger of Longmen Pass. As long as you hold the pass, it's not that easy in Xita and Beizhou. You can get it down. Besides, the prince is mighty, brave and good at fighting, so he is not afraid."

During this panic, Li Xiaohan gradually calmed down.

No matter how Xita joined Beizhou, it was impossible to take a long detour, but if they want to capture Dingcheng from Liaodong, they will not be able to get down easily unless they blow up Longmen Pass. That is Guanxia, known as the Dragon's Throat. With the current thermal weapon technology, how could it be exploded so easily?

However, the soldiers of Western Tartar detoured to Liaodong, so the pressure on the original border line would be greatly reduced. Western Tartars would not have so many more people out of thin air. One would wax and wane, and a large number of troops could be mobilized along the western border line. Guard Longmen Pass.

To put it bluntly, it is better to fight the guard battle at Longmen Pass than at the west border. After all, the Wei Dynasty occupies a convenient location.

If Xita and Beizhou are going to take a detour to go back, don't be afraid. This will take time, and by then the imperial army in the middle will definitely be ready. The country was about to be destroyed, and Li Xiaohan didn't believe that the imperial court was still nagging. The one on the dragon throne is still the emperor who founded the country by force. His vision, courage and determination are still there. God bless the Wei Dynasty, and the destiny of the country is still there.

Xita and Beizhou just colluded in private and caught the Liaodong and East Route Army by surprise. Now that they knew and were prepared, how could the Wei Dynasty make such a mistake again.

In a panic, Li Xiaohan's brain was running rapidly. All the contents in the original book, as well as what Zhang Fu said about the court on weekdays, and the relevant book information that he had been paying attention to were constantly corroborating, intersecting, and deducing each other. Finally, Support Li Xiaohan's actions.

Just like the earthquake in her previous life, in the overwhelming feeling, it seemed that only all the self-rescue knowledge about earthquakes was left in her mind. At the critical moment, she was supported to hide in the bathroom triangle area, and she even had quick eyesight and quick hands. That half bottle of mineral water.

"Don't be afraid, the situation has not reached the worst yet." Li Xiaohan said firmly, not knowing whether to convince Wang or himself.

Anyway, Wang was convinced and calmed down slightly.

However, Mrs. Wang panicked and said, "Your father has gone out to find out the news. I don't know what to do?"

It was so chaotic that Li Xiandong didn't dare to let Li Xiaohan and Wang go out and went to see what was going on outside.

Just as Li Xiandong was talking, there was a sound of opening the door. With a creak, the door opened, and Li Xiandong flashed in carrying a sack.

"The streets were in chaos, and everyone was grabbing food. I finally found a shop that was still open, and quickly grabbed a bag of rice. Let's eat this first, and then we'll go back to Pingshan Village."

"Yes, yes, put them away first." Mrs. Wang hurriedly stepped forward to greet them, "I'll bake some pancakes. This is convenient."

Although the baked cakes are frozen hard, you can eat them directly.

Hearing the sound of Li Xiandong coming back, Aunt He, who was coaxing Li Xiaoshuang in the room, came out and said with embarrassment and uncontrollable eagerness, "Big girl, big girl, this situation is uneasy." Sir, I want to go home."

It was clearly promised that it would be done a few days before the new year, but the Wang family was very busy these days, and Li Xiaoshuang relied on Aunt He to take care of her. However, now Aunt He embarrassedly made a request to leave.

Also, Pingshan Village is the home of Li Xiandong and the Wang family, and Fucheng is also the home of Aunt He. Even though this family has many disappointments on weekdays, during the turmoil, everyone wants to be with their family.

"Okay. Mom, you can settle this month's salary for Aunt He. It will be calculated for the whole month according to the government, and the New Year's fee should also be settled for Aunt He." Li Xiaohan said simply, and then persuaded. , "Aunt He, you'd better buy some food and store it up."

This amount of wages is nothing to Li Xiaohan now, but it is different for Aunt He. With this money, Aunt He can stock up on more food while prices in Fucheng are not yet too high. Food makes people feel at ease.

"Hey, thank you so much, Miss." Aunt He said with trembling excitement. What a nice girl.

So, Mrs. Wang went back to her room and took out the money and settled the wages for Aunt He. Li Xiandong also warned, "Aunt He, it's chaos outside. You have money on you. Don't stay too long. Go home first. My family accompanied me out to buy food."

"Hey, I know Mr. Li." Aunt He said fearfully.

After a while, Aunt He took a small baggage, put on the worst homespun clothes, blackened her cheeks with pot ash and messed up her hair, and left in a hurry.

After a while, there was a knock on the door.

"Who is it?" Li Xiandong said nervously.

"Xian Dong, it's me, the clan leader." A loud voice said outside the door.

Li Xiandong quickly ran over and opened the door, "Chief, why are you here? Come in quickly."

So the patriarch brought his luggage and several bags of medicine. The patriarch's wife helped Li Xinhe down, and Li Xiandong helped take some luggage. The patriarch paid the fare, and the three of them entered and closed the door tightly.

"Renhetang is also in a bit of chaos. The doctors are not here and have gone home." Patriarch Li said.

Doctors are human beings too and have families to take care of. Even though Dingcheng is still safe at the moment, the family still feels at ease after seeing him.

"I asked Dr. Zhang that for Xinhe's injury, we still need to continue taking medicine, but we don't have to stay in Renhetang. We discussed it, picked up the medicine, and came to meet you. We have to go home." Patriarch Li said .

In particular, Patriarch Li is the head of the clan. If he is not here at this time, I don't know what the chaos in Pingshan Village will be like.

"When will you go back?" Patriarch Li asked. It would be best to have a companion to go home together for safety.

"Clan leader, we still have to wait a while." Li Xiaohan said in embarrassment.

This makes it impossible to keep company.

"Dad, you and your mother go back first. Xiaohan and I are waiting for news here." Li Xinhe said with a weak body. He could guess what news Li Xiaohan was waiting for. Moreover, Pingshan Village is indeed not as well-informed as the prefecture.

"...Then, let the old man go back first, I have to accompany my son." The patriarch's wife said hesitantly. Between the old man and his son, she'd better choose the son. This son is not reassuring.

Patriarch Li frowned and said nothing.

"Brother Xinhe, you should go back. You have to take care of your body. I will tell you any news by then." Li Xiaohan advised.

Besides, Li Xinhe was like this. Li Xiaohan was really afraid that he would be irritated again when he was excited. After all, he only lost two counties in Liaodong that day, so the students excitedly said that they would abandon their pens and join the army. Now that the entire Liaodong has fallen, Li Xiaohan is afraid that Li Xinhe will do something again.

"Yes, Xiaohan is right. If you come back with me, you will be doing a disservice now." Patriarch Li said. He had to keep an eye on his son.

This time it was Li Xinhe's turn to frown in displeasure.

"I knew I wouldn't have let that carriage go just now," the patriarch's wife said.

"It's useless, the carriage refuses to leave the city." Chief Li sighed.

"The patriarch and aunt take a rest first. The situation is very chaotic now. Let's go and hire a carriage after a while." Li Xiaohan advised.

"That's all we can do." The clan leader sighed.

Unexpectedly, after waiting for more than an hour, there was a knock on the door of Li Xiandong's house again.

"Who?" Li Xiandong asked defensively.

"Xiandong, it's me, Guiqian." I thought of a familiar voice outside the door.

Li Xiandong quickly opened the door, and sure enough he saw Li Guiqian and three people driving an ox cart outside the door.

"come on in."

So the ox cart and the people entered the courtyard gate together.

"Why are you here? But what happened to the clan?" Chief Li asked anxiously.

"Clan leader, the clan is doing well. There is vague news, but I don't know whether it's true or not. It's great that you are here. We were ordered by our third uncle to come out to find out the news and take you back." Li Guiqian said. He said with relief.

Without the clan leader, the Li clan in Pingshan Village is simply leaderless.

The two exchanged some news with each other, and Patriarch Li quickly made a decision, "Just in time, while it's still dark, I'll go back with you."

"Why."

As a result, Patriarch Li's family of three came and left very quickly, and only Li Xiaohan's family was left in Gumen Alley.

=== Chapter === 146

Gumen Alley, the day after the fall of Liaodong.

Li Xiaohan was peeling garlic. His fingers were not white and slender, but his finger bones were very slender, with a slightly healthy complexion and slight traces of work. His pink nails were trimmed neatly and his fingers were flying. Peel off the outer skin of the garlic grains, discarding any that are shriveled or yellowed, leaving only healthy and plump white garlic grains. Finally, use a small knife to peel off the hard part at the bottom of the garlic grains, and peel the peeled garlic. Grains piled into a pile.

"Xiaohan, why are you still peeling garlic? Didn't Xinhe bring the medicine back? Do you need more medicine?" Wang asked slightly hesitantly.

Today, Fucheng is more peaceful than yesterday. At least, there are not so many children crying in nearby residences. This shows that the adults are at least calm on the surface, and the little ones are not affected.

Just peel the garlic at this time? I still have a little allicin at home, isn't it enough? Does anyone else need it too?

"Mom, I peel this to be useful. Besides, at this time, we can't do anything if we don't work. It's better to do some work to feel more at ease." Li Xiaohan said.

"That's right." Wang thought of the pie she baked all day yesterday and nodded in agreement. It happened that Li Xiaoshuang hadn't woken up yet, so she and Li Xiaohan peeled garlic together.

After peeling the garlic for a while, Wang couldn't help but ask again, "How about you go and make your own clothes?"

Li Xiaohan paused for a moment, and even the action of peeling garlic was stuck. After a while, he raised his head and looked at Mrs. Wang pitifully, "Mom, I can't make up my mind to do that. I think it's better to buy clothes for Jiji." It's the same set. There's also a fur collar that I added, so it counts as my work."

Li Xiaohan was slow at making clothes, and with so many things happening during this period, she didn't have time to think about it. Now if she wants to catch up with hairpin clothes, she has to work non-stop, and it's not necessarily It can be caught up, but the effect of catching up may not be good.

Wang hesitated for a while. Previously, she was still hesitant about whether she should secretly help Li Xiaohan do it.

But Li Xiaohan refused. If Wang wanted to help make it, it would be better to buy a set generously.

How about admitting that she is not good at making clothes? Now she no longer needs the skill of making clothes.

Besides, she also made a big fur collar. Although the fur collar was handled by others and she was responsible for sewing it together, it proved that she was rich and could at least do it. seam. The fur collar is so noble and beautiful, that's enough.

Mrs. Wang looked at her daughter's pitiful expression. After a moment, she gritted her teeth and said determinedly, "Sure, let's do this."

So what if her daughter can't make clothes? The things she can do are much more difficult than making clothes.

"Thank you, mother." Li Xiaohan put away his pitiful expression and smiled coquettishly.

It's rare that in this time of panic, there is a tiny bit of luxurious peace.

In the past, it was just ordinary, but now I feel it is so precious.

"There isn't much garlic left at home, do you want to buy some more?"

In previous years, a few straws of garlic in the kitchen were enough to survive the winter. After all, garlic cannot be eaten as a vegetable, but who would have thought that such an ordinary garlic could have such effects. Nowadays, the Li family's garlic is used up the fastest. Since Li Xinhe was injured, the Li family has bought garlic several times, but there is not much left.

"When I bought garlic last time, I asked the vegetable farmer to help collect it, and it should have been delivered today. But in this situation, I wonder if it will be delivered again?" Li Xiaohan explained.

Garlic is not a main dish. It is not grown on a large scale like modern times. It is mostly grown in corners. Li Xiaohan told the vegetable farmer he was familiar with in the past, and asked the vegetable farmer to help him harvest it, which would give him some labor fees and save Li Xiaohan's effort.

It's just that I made an appointment before, but now I don't know if I can deliver it as promised. After all, people are so scared now that they can't come out, and it's normal that they don't dare to come out.

"Yes." Wang nodded.

The two of them were talking about this matter when suddenly there was a knock on the door.

"Who is it?" Li Xiaohan asked alertly.

At this time, the door rings, which always gives people a frightening feeling.

"Miss Li, it's me, old Liu Tou, the vegetable seller."

Hearing the familiar voice, Li Xiaohan breathed a sigh of relief, walked to the door, and looked out through the gap in the door. Sure enough, it was the old Liu Tou who usually sold vegetables, and he quickly opened the door.

"Why are you here now? Didn't you have an appointment at noon?" Li Xiaohan asked.

Vegetable farmers usually don't have much time in the morning, so they have to go to the market to sell vegetables and deliver them. This dynasty already has the technology of cellaring. Although most of them are cabbage and radish in winter, it can be regarded as a daily skill. Buy and sell.

Lao Liutou carried two baskets of garlic, entered the door, and secretly breathed a sigh of relief. Being able to get through the door shows that Miss Li is still willing to do this business.

The past two days have been frightening. The price of food in the city went up yesterday. These vegetable farmers near Fucheng don't have much farmland at home. They specialize in growing vegetables in spring, summer and autumn, and sell some on weekdays. Most of them are stored in cellars in winter and sold slowly. After making money, they can buy grain again, which is better than that every year. Growing food is more cost-effective.

Who could have imagined that in the current situation, when everyone is scrambling for food, how could they be willing to spend money to buy food? After all, food is not enough to fill the stomach. If a person wants to escape, he must eat serious food to have strength.

It's just the vegetable farmers like Lao Liutou who have suffered. No one wants their food, and they don't make much money. The price of grain is still rising. I count the grain in the grain urn at home, but I don't dare to feel at ease. have eaten.

Today, except for Old Liu Tou and his family, the meal for the rest of the family is halved. The half-grown baby was not full and was yelling for more food. The mother-in-law slapped her.

Old Liu Tou was saddened by his crying.

Be brave enough to carry vegetables to the market. It is December when we are preparing for the Chinese New Year. In previous years, water spinach and radishes were best sold at this time - every household has to prepare New Year vegetables, but now the market is empty and there are not many people. . There was no other way, so Old Liu Tou had no choice but to carry vegetables home and bring the garlic collected by his neighbors to Li Xiaohan.

He was also afraid that Li Xiaohan wouldn't want garlic. After all, things were different now. In terms of filling the stomach, garlic was worse than vegetables.

While he was feeling anxious, Li Xiaohan squatted down and looked at the garlic in the basket. He picked out a few and peeled them open. It was this year's new garlic and it was well preserved.

"Your garlic is pretty good."

"Yes." Old Liu Tou smiled with an old face like pine bark, and said with a little pride and a hidden sales pitch, "Those of us who grow vegetables have deep cellars at home, and the whole family takes care of them carefully. It must be better than ordinary people before it can be sold."

"Yeah." Li Xiaohan nodded, but from another basket he picked a piece of garlic at the bottom of the frame and peeled it open. The quality was the same. Old Liu Tou didn't pass it off as a shoddy one. "In that case, let's follow the agreement. Let's settle the price. I'll weigh it."

"You weigh it, you weigh it." Old Liu Tou laughed very happily. He was also afraid that Miss Li would not want it or the price would be lowered. After all, many customers who asked for their food today said they didn't want it.

On the other side, the Wang family has already taken out the scale, and now the Li family has no shortage of these tools.

It is said that Lao Liutou is still an honest man. At that time, he agreed on eighty kilograms of garlic, but Lao Liutou gave him an extra kilogram.

"Two cents per catty, a total of one hundred and sixty-two cents, plus the errand fee that I agreed to give you four catties and a cent, the total is one hundred and eighty-two cents. You count it."

"Hey, hey," Old Liu Tou replied happily. It turned out that the pound was meant to be given to Miss Li. This is the rule. After all, if you buy too much, you have to be on guard against the bad things. Now, Old Liu Tou thought of the crying baby at home, and with an old face, he bought these two coins.

A pair of big hands covered with thick calluses carefully counted the copper coins. Old Liu wrapped his head in coarse cloth and stuffed it tightly into his chest. "That's it, Miss Li, I'm leaving."

After taking the money, we quickly went home, divided the money, and went to buy food together. If we are too slow, the price of food may rise again.

"Wait a minute, you continue to collect this garlic for me. According to today's quality, I will give you whatever the market price is. In five days, you will deliver it... to the Qinggang shop in Xishi. The errand fee I'll give you the same thing." Li Xiaohan said.

Expecting that this large amount of allicin would definitely push up the price of garlic, Li Xiaohan only set a market price and did not say a fixed price, otherwise he would be too bullying.

As for the delivery point, after much deliberation, the store in Qinggang is more suitable. When the time comes, I would like to ask someone from Qinggang to help collect the goods.

"Hey. Miss Li." Old Liu Tou opened his eyes wide in surprise and responded loudly. After a moment, he realized, "Miss Li, how much do you want?"

"As much as you have." Li Xiaohan said, "But if the quality of your garlic is not good once, I will deduct twice the money. If the quality of your garlic is bad twice, our business will be cancelled. ."

"I understand. Miss Li, don't worry, our relatives are all engaged in this business, and we don't dare to ruin this reputation." Old Liu Tou promised excitedly.

It used to be that all the relatives in the family grew vegetables and helped each other make money. However, in this world, they have all lost their livelihoods together.

Miss Li's deal saved them. There are many relatives in the family, so the men will go to various villages to collect the garlic. Usually, people will plant some onions and garlic tails in a corner of the vegetable field. The women and children will carefully pick them together, and then send them to Qingbang West Market. Go to the shop.

As for whether what Miss Li said counts, it's a joke. What Miss Li said in Dingcheng Baiwa doesn't count. Who else can ordinary people like them believe?

After settling the deal, Old Liu Tou went home happily.

"Are we going to make so much in the future? Are we going to sell it?" Wang asked, helping to carry the garlic in.

"Well, I haven't decided who to sell it to yet. Anyway, I shouldn't worry about selling it." Li Xiaohan said, it depends on whether it is sold to King Ding or to someone else.

Just as I was thinking about it, there was a knock on the door again.

"Who is it?"

"Miss Li, it's me, Qingsong."

"Come in quickly. What's going on?"

"Miss Li, I won't go in. I'm a little busy now." Qingsong's eyes were black and it was obvious that he had stayed up all night. He only smiled bitterly and said, "Miss Li, our young master made an appointment with you. I'll meet you at Qingming Alley tomorrow morning at a quarter past midnight. , I wonder if it's inconvenient for you?"

Zhang Fu couldn't come in person, which was understandable to Li Xiaohan. After all, he was probably very busy right now.

It's just a bit strange why the appointment should be at Qingming Alley instead of her home at 1:00 a.m. tomorrow.

However, "It's okay. Just tell your son, I'll be there on time tomorrow."

"Young Master asked me to pick you up tomorrow morning. It's not safe now, so I'll come two-quarters of an hour earlier."

"good."

=== Chapter === 147

Early the next morning, Mrs. Wang heard that Li Xiaohan was going out to do errands, so she got up early and prepared breakfast for Li Xiaohan. When Li Xiaohan had just finished eating, Qingsong came.

Li Xiaohan was dressed in a homely green coat and skirt, with a white jade hairpin with a broken jade pattern on her head. She was dressed very homely, so she got on the carriage and went out.

Arriving at Qingming Alley, Li Xiaohan entered. He first saw Zhang Fu, who was wearing a robe of moon-white silk and satin with splashed ink landscape calligraphy and painting on it. He had a simple white jade crown on his head, against the backdrop of a blanket of white snow on the ground above the eaves. It can be said that the young master is like jade and has extraordinary temperament.

Didn't you say that you are like a dog when you are busy during the war? Why are you dressed so coquettishly?

As Li Xiaohan walked in, he glanced sideways unconsciously.

A slight smile appeared on Zhang Fu's face and then suppressed.

After sitting down, the cook quickly served breakfast.

"You haven't had breakfast yet?" Li Xiaohan asked in surprise.

"Did you eat?" Zhang Fu couldn't hide his disappointment.

"I'll eat some more with you." Li Xiaohan didn't deny it. She took a look and saw that the breakfast on the table was quite to her taste. It included hot pepper soup, snow-white eight-treasure tofu, and even lotus root. Fang Yubao is a labor-intensive and exquisite dish, and only the cooks here in Qingming Alley have the time and thought to make it carefully.

The food of Li Xiaohan's family is also very good, but most of it is both ingenious and practical. The Li family does not understand this kind of ostentatious work among ancient mansions. As a hidden foodie, Li Xiaohan, I cherish it every time I eat it.

So the two of them finished breakfast, rinsed their mouths, and then started talking about business.

"Regarding Panax notoginseng and allicin, the palace's current plan is as follows. For Panax notoginseng, the palace will reward a thousand acres of mountainous land in exchange for three to seven thousand usable plants within three years. I don't know. "What do you think?" Zhang Fu said.

Give the silver taels directly. The palace is very nervous about the silver taels now, so it is better to exchange for the mountains. Li Xiaohan can still plant more in the mountains. Seeing that this war does not know when it will end, the palace very much hopes that Li Xiaohan will plant more and more in three weeks and seven months, and then it can spend money to purchase something or other.

Li Xiaohan began to calculate in his heart: one thousand acres of mountainous land would be exchanged for three to seven thousand plants, that is one plant per mu. According to the current price of mountainous land, it is about eighty taels per mu of land, which means one plant is three to seven thousand eighty taels. , even if it is Panax notoginseng that has just turned three years old and can be used as medicine, Li Xiaohan is losing money on the apparent price.

But numbers are not simply calculated like this. First of all, Panax notoginseng is rare and expensive. Now that Li Xiaohan has planted it in batches, the price will naturally come down. Secondly, land is relatively special and sought-after. A kind of resource, even if it is mountainous land, it is not easy to obtain thousands of acres of mountainous land. If the palace grants a thousand acres of land, there is basically no need to worry about the source and procedures of the mountainous land.

There are only two questions, "When will these thousand trees be taken? Where are the mountains?"

"The minimum guarantee is 400 plants in the first year, and 300 plants in the second and third years." Zhang Fu said. He had previously asked Li Xiaohan about the number of 37 plants on the mountain, and this number was basically 70%. Panax notoginseng was left, and the remaining three cents were given to Li Xiaohan in exchange for silver. "If there are more than a thousand Panax notoginseng plants, the palace can purchase them at the market price."

"The mountainous land is near Pingshan Village. An official will take you to measure the land." Since it is convenient for Li Xiaohan, it is naturally best to be near Pingshan Village.

"Okay, there's no problem with that." Li Xiaohan nodded.

Panax notoginseng was originally grown for sale, but now that the price offered by the palace is really good, it would be best to sell it to the palace.

Seeing that Li Xiaohan had no objection to Panax notoginseng, Zhang Fu continued, "As for allicin, in exchange for the prescription, the palace will give you a seventh-grade official title and exempt all men named Li from military service in Pingshan Village. The prescription is on After handing it over, you can still make medicine and sell it, but you must ensure that the prescription is not leaked within three years, otherwise the reward will be withdrawn."

This exchange leaves too much room.

First of all, "What are the details of this seventh-grade prince's official appointment?" Li Xiaohan asked with a frown.

"This is a kind of official position that is not a real job. It is usually the basis for the official position of the powerful son's family. It is among the imperial officials. For example, if you are seventh grade, you can see the county magistrate without kneeling. You are under the Ministry of War, but on weekdays There is basically no job; there is a salary, but not much." Zhang Fu explained.

Oh, Li Xiaohan understands, this is similar to Jia Zheng in "A Dream of Red Mansions". At first, Jia Zheng was an official of several grades, and he was a member of the Ministry of Industry of the sixth grade. Later, Jia Yuanchun made him a concubine, and Jia Zheng was promoted. The fifth grade.

Although I am one level lower than the seventh rank, the female Yin Guan can be regarded as one of the few ancients before me, and I don't know how many have come in the future. It can be seen that King Ding is really interested in allicin. The need is urgent.

Also, Li Xiaohan asked worriedly, "What's going on with the three-year military service exemption for the Li clan in Pingshan Village? Is there going to be a military conscription?"

"Yes, the notice will come down soon." Zhang Fu replied with a sigh.

The war situation is critical and veterans have to go to the battlefield. The military supplies, food and grass, etc. will definitely have to be transported by the militia. If the situation gets worse, it is not surprising that the militiamen will go to the battlefield.

"What about these three years?" Li Xiaohan said with a little hesitation, how did he calculate these three years?

"Either determine the battle situation early, or hold on for three years. After three years, if King Ding cannot hold on, he will lose. This is the result of our analysis. By then, no matter how much commitment we make, It's useless." Zhang Fu explained.

Li Xiaohan understood, "I agree, no problem."

In exchange for a prescription, she could gain temporary stability - giving her an official position would give her protection from the court, and giving her a male member of the Li family would give her the support of the armed forces around her.

This condition was completely tailor-made for Li Xiaohan. Only Zhang Fu could think of it for her.

"Thank you." Li Xiaohan expressed his gratitude from the bottom of his heart.

Zhang Fu did not answer, "In as little as two days or as long as three days, the appointment letter from the imperial court will arrive. You wait in Fucheng, and then return to Pingshan with the appointment and the Yamen." Go to the village."

"Okay." Li Xiaohan responded.

Things were perfect, there was no more doubt. For a moment, the two of them fell into silence.

"In three days, I will join the army." Zhang Fu said suddenly.

"What's going on? Haven't you been making arrangements in Fucheng?" Li Xiaohan blurted out, "Can your body hold on?"

Zhang Fu smiled slightly and said, "Don't worry, I don't need to go to the battlefield. Just three days later, the prince's army set off to Longmen Pass. Now I got the news that Xitar and Beizhou in Liaodong are also preparing. It must be a battle. In a fierce battle, I must be at the scene so that I can better coordinate materials and make decisions."

"Oh, that's it." Li Xiaohan didn't know much about what happened on the battlefield, but he knew that at this time, it would be easier to do things on the spot. "Then be careful. Return safely."

"Yes." Zhang Fu responded lightly, looked at the ground, and suddenly said, "Miss Li, December 14th is your birthday, right?"

"Ah. Yes, yes." Li Xiaohan couldn't react, why did the topic turn to her.

Zhang Fu did not look at Li Xiaohan and continued, "I will no longer be in Dingcheng by then. In that case, I will congratulate Miss Li on her birthday in advance. I wish you a happy life, always as before."

"Thank you." Li Xiaohan responded in a harsh voice.

Suddenly, the emotion of parting suddenly surged, crushing people's hearts.

"I don't have anything to give you, so I'll give you a sword dance as a gift."

After saying that, Zhang Fu did not look at Li Xiaohan, drew a sword from his side, tiptoed the ground, and walked quickly into the courtyard.

Raising his sword, he picked up his clothes and fluttered. The three thousand swords were shining like water, flying around like shooting stars or dragons. Zhang Fu looked at the sword, but he was filled with emotion.

You are leaving. The battlefield is changing rapidly, and who can guarantee life or death?

In case of failure, the son of a surrendered general has no way out. He is just loyal to the whole family and has no reason to surrender to his grandson again.

There is no need to drag others along this cliff road.

Another turn and leap, the sword energy swayed and the white snow flew up, the sword shadow shuttled back and forth, the coldness was overwhelming.

But, I really can't reconcile myself to it, I really can't reconcile myself to it.

The light of the sword chased the falling snow, and began to become tender and tender, turning a thousand times, and slowly dissipated with the snowflakes between the sky and the earth. The last bit of snowflakes just landed on the tip of the sword. After a moment of pause, the sword dancer was ruthlessly gentle. Shake off.

The wooden hairpin on his chest was so hot that it burned his heart and lungs, but what he took out was a cold and sharp dagger.

"Miss Li, the world is in chaos. I give you a dagger, and I hope it will never be unsheathed."

=== Chapter === 148

On December 12th, it snowed heavily.

As Zhang Fu said, it would take at least two days for Li Xiaohan to arrive at the royal palace's subordinate officials and officials.

Seeing Li Xiaohan take over the appointment document, official seal and official uniform, Li Xiandong and Wang were trembling.

In their minds, their daughters were capable, but they never dared to think that they could be capable enough to become officials.

Does this really exist?

The two of them couldn't believe it, but they tried their best to hear clearly the conversation between Li Xiaohan and the two palace officials.

"Master Li, because time is urgent, I don't have time to customize official uniforms for you, so I have chosen two sets of winter clothes for you from the old ones. We will prepare them for you next year when we have time. Make spring robes." A royal official said apologetically, as if he was not at all surprised or disapproved of Li Xiaohan's female appointment.

That is to say, all those who can come are smart people. Even if they disagree, they should keep it in their hearts. How can it be revealed on the surface?

"You two adults are very polite, I understand." Li Xiaohan said with a slight smile, looking kind and calm, as if this official appointment was a matter of course for her, and it was very bluffing. Liveable people.

"You're welcome, Mr. Li. But when can we set off? I still need to get the news that the Li family is exempted from corvee military service, and I need to draw out the general scope of the mountainous area for you."

The notice received by the two subordinate officers was to complete the matter as soon as possible, and explain as much as possible if it could not be completed, and there must be no delay. The Ministry of War was still waiting.

It's just that winter is cold, so we can rush to deal with things related to people, but in this mountainous area, waking up the sleeping beasts in the wilderness in winter is no joke. But let's briefly talk about this area first, and we will come back to the monument in the spring. .

"Understood, you two adults, please sit down for a moment and have some tea. We have packed our things and will put them away for the last time." Li Xiaohan said.

Mrs. Wang hurriedly trembled and ran up to serve hot tea.

The other luggage has already been packed. Wang has been working non-stop these days, and will panic when she stops. All he had to clean up was the newly delivered official robes, etc. Li Xiandong then wrapped Li Xiaoshuang tightly and drove out his carriage.

After a cup of tea, a carriage came from the Li family's side. Old Uncle Zhong and Dr. Zhang were following on horseback. Two officials of the Wang family, and four accompanying yamen, left the Gumen Alley together.

Why are you following Dr. Zhang here?

Doctor Zhang was carrying a small baggage, "I heard you planted Panax notoginseng, I have to go and have a look. And I've applied for your allicin, and now I can also read the prescription. You previously It's not that allicin is a broad-spectrum bactericidal drug, but you just gave a general idea of how to use it, so I have to follow it and study it."

The two royal palace officials also nodded. Doctor Zhang was indeed allowed by his superior to accompany him.

Li Xiaohan understood that this was obviously Dr. Zhang's style. When such a doctor with excellent medical skills came to him, it was something he wished for. But, "Doctor Zhang, why don't you go to the army to see a doctor?"

"When I have thoroughly researched it, I will naturally test the effect."

"Okay, if Dr. Zhang doesn't mind, you can stay at my house for a while. I have to deal with Er Er Qi Wu's second father." Li Xiaohan responded. He was studying this medicine. It probably won't be able to be processed in a short time. Something happened.

When we went out, it was still snowing all over the sky. Even though the snow was not very heavy, it was still very difficult to go out. It's just that no matter how difficult it is, we have to move on now. The war situation ahead does not allow anyone to be picky.

Cars and horses moved slowly, slowly exiting the alleys and streets... The bustling Fucheng in the past was now deserted, with no New Year atmosphere. Even if there were one or two pedestrians, they were all in a hurry. , dare not stay longer.

In an instant, the wind and snow suddenly increased sharply, gradually blinding people's eyes. The horse was confused by the strong wind, and its originally neat footsteps became hesitant and messy. It stopped in place, turned around and neighed.

The bells sounded vaguely in the distance, one after another, one after another.

The bells sounded from far away to near, and gradually became impossible to ignore, one, two, three... until nine.

The wind and snow stopped for a while, and the horses were good horses. They were just in a panic for a moment, but now they have returned to order.

However, people are in chaos.

Several subordinate officials and Yamen officials dismounted their horses in despair and fell on the ground. Regardless of the wind and snow, Li Xiaohan and Li Xiandong hurriedly poked their heads out of the carriage and got out of the carriage.

No one spoke, everyone was shaking.

Another round of bells rang, Dang, Dang, Dang... It seemed to ring in everyone's hearts, shattering people's hearts.

There is no doubt about the nine bells.

It's Di Beng!

"Your Majesty!"

The trembling and painful voice of someone unknown made everyone startled.

"Your Majesty, Your Majesty!" The accompanying royal officials had lost their dignity.

On the street, the store doors that had been closed just a moment ago were hurriedly opened, and the panicked shop owner came out with tears in his eyes, as if he didn't believe his ears, but he happened to see the government officials lying on the ground crying.

As if something that I couldn't believe anymore finally became a fact, for a while, the cries gradually became one.

A heroic lord, the founding emperor of the Wei Dynasty, fought in the first half of his life to drive the alien rule out of this land and ended the troubled times where the people were in dire straits. His Majesty the Emperor, who was the most important figure in the hearts of the people of the older generation of the Wei Dynasty, passed away.

He sat on the throne for nearly thirty years, working diligently to dredge canals, develop the economy, and standardize laws. Even if in the last stage, after the death of the prince, he insisted on abandoning the vassal king and establishing a grandson, it would not harm the emperor. His past achievements, the wise master in the hearts of the younger generation of the Wei Dynasty, passed away.

Li Xiaohan knelt on the ground and closed his eyes tightly.

But unexpectedly, His Majesty passed away at this critical moment.

Even though I have always known that the emperor will die this winter, at this moment, the tigers and wolves are around in Xitar and Beizhou, the great grandson Wenzhi and martial arts are unable to take over, and the prince is living in a fiefdom with no successor... He has lost an authoritative leader. Seeing that the Wei Dynasty is about to fall apart.

Could it be that God is really going to destroy the Wei Dynasty?

Even though he had read the plot of the original book thousands of times in his mind, Li Xiaohan couldn't help but ask this question.

Not to mention others.

At this moment, the respect and love for His Majesty the Emperor, the fear of Northern Tartar, and the panic and confusion about the future made everyone on the long street burst into tears.

The fluttering white snow is still falling mercilessly.

I don't know how long it took, but Li Xiaohan felt chills in his heart. Suddenly, he heard the sound of horse hoofbeats from both ends of the street.

The street they are on is one of the four largest streets in Dingcheng. It leads to Prince Ding's Mansion in the north and the South Gate in the south.

The sound of horse hooves gradually woke up the crying people. The sound of horse hooves coming from the north was faster, faster and more messy, and gradually people could be seen.

"It's the prince, it's the prince." The palace official recognized the group in front and shouted in a panic.

At this moment, King Ding and his party were speeding towards them. The leader, King Ding, was only wearing a white tunic, not even linen, and was hurriedly on the way out.

This is, going to Beijing for a funeral.

Li Xiaohan suddenly understood King Ding.

It was not only an emperor who died, but also a father, a father so tall that his son did not dare to overstep or disobey him for half his life.

Just as this group of riders was about to gallop past, the carriages and horses from the south also arrived.

Perhaps fearing that they would miss it, the people coming from the south stood on the speeding carriage regardless of the danger, shouting loudly, "The imperial edict has arrived, the imperial edict has arrived. King Ding dismounted to receive the edict, King Ding dismounted to receive the edict!"

Your Majesty has just passed away. What imperial edict can be transmitted from the capital thousands of miles away to Dingcheng at this time?

However, at this time, no one in the Wei Dynasty dared to forge the imperial edict.

King Ding's men and horses neighed sharply and stopped. The people coming from the south breathed a sigh of relief and shouted, "The imperial edict has arrived. King Ding will receive it."

"By God's will, the emperor issued an edict: Brother, I ordered you to guard Longmen Pass. The Chinese army is being prepared and will be here soon. If you can't hold it, don't come to see me underground even if you go underground!"

There was silence, except for this nondescript imperial edict floating in the air.

Then I heard the eunuch who announced the decree say with a weeping voice, "Your Majesty, this is one of His Majesty's last decrees. When the news of the fall of Liaodong came, Your Majesty supported his illness and took the life-stimulating medicine mentioned by the imperial doctor. The troops are dispatching generals to prepare for the battle in Liaodong. Your Majesty, we have already set off from the capital on the day Liaodong fell. We have been waiting in Dingcheng for a long time. Your Majesty has anticipated his own death, and also anticipated that, Your Majesty, you will be in great pain. Rushing to the capital for the funeral, I was ordered to wait and stop the prince here."

"Your Majesty, your Majesty said that the country is the most important thing, and the people are the most important thing. As long as the Wei Dynasty is not destroyed, he will be there, and everyone does not have to observe filial piety for him. You, accept the order."

In the silence, the only sound left was the eunuch's cry, and then a louder howl sounded.

Li Xiaohan only saw King Ding, who was dressed in Chinese clothes, kneeling on the ground and crawling forward, saying with a sobbing voice:

"My son, take the order."

"Emperor's Book":

Wei Taizu, the founding emperor of the Wei Dynasty, was extremely outstanding in martial arts and martial arts.

The most admirable thing about Taizu of Wei is that he saw through death and even accelerated his own death. He gave a decree to Wang Ding to guard the pass, a decree to Taisun to set the policy, a decree to King Qi to assist, and a decree to the prime minister. Exercise your power.

With his last death, he gathered the power of the whole country to hold back the Wei Dynasty, which was running towards the cliff, and continued to reign for another four hundred years.

=== Chapter === 149

I don't know how long it took, but King Ding and others on the long street took the order and returned to the palace. There was a faint sound of crying on the street. The hesitation, panic and sadness were still there, but there was a little more hope and strength.

Li Xiaohan touched his face, only to feel pain. He had shed too many tears. In this windy and snowy day, a thin layer of ice formed on his face, which stung his face.

She once thought that the emperor's collapse thousands of miles away was just a plot, but now she discovered that she was also one of the protected people.

"Let's go, there are still many things to do." Li Xiaohan stood up and said with support.

"Go." Several palace officials cried even more embarrassedly, but at this moment, they were even more determined than before with the word "go."

The carriages and horses were moving slowly, and Li Xiaohan saw hemp curtains gradually hung up in the surrounding shops.

The group of people walked away in silence, only hearing the sound of horses trampling on the ground. As they walked out of the south gate, Li Xiaohan stuck his head out and looked back at the majestic and vicissitudes of the city wall.

"Miss Li, the second young master is here." Old Uncle Zhong suddenly said.

Li Xiaohan frowned, didn't he say he couldn't come over to say goodbye?

But as Old Uncle Zhong finished speaking, a horse riding alone in the wind and snow at the city gate came closer and closer. It was indeed Zhang Fu.

Li Xiaohan quickly jumped out of the carriage and went to meet him. The others thought that Zhang Fu was chasing after him because of something important, so they waited where they were.

Zhang Fu was wearing linen clothes, showing his filial piety.

"Why are you here?" Li Xiaohan asked.

"I'm here to see you off." Zhang Fu replied with difficulty, paused, and continued, "It's a difficult road ahead. I hope you take care of yourself."

Li Xiaohan looked at Zhang Fu with a little surprise and a little pity.

Is this person crazy? She just went home. It was he who needed to take care of himself when he had a difficult journey ahead on the battlefield.

Zhang Fu actually tried hard to smile. He might really be crazy.

The emperor collapsed and the sky fell.

After the grief in his mind, it started to work again quickly. His Majesty passed away, his grandson ascended the throne, and Prince Ding had almost no support from the court. Dingcheng is located under Liaodong and is the only place where Western Tartar North Prefecture must pass, so the battle of Longmen Pass is inevitable.

With no reinforcements and no backup, they can only go forward in a fight to the death, or die on the battlefield. This is the fate that these people have clearly written.

That's probably the case, so I thought I'd take advantage of official business to see him again for the last time.

"Your Majesty, the war situation is difficult. If you are an official alone, there may be many people who make things difficult for you. If there is no place for you in the court, you and your tribe will go to Jiangnan..."

"Did you come directly from the General's Mansion? Have you ever passed through South Street?" Li Xiaohan interrupted Zhang Fu softly.

Zhang Fu paused for a moment, feeling a little disappointed, but he understood that he had lost his sense of proportion after all. With the collapse of the emperor, he should be in charge of everything in the general's palace, "Yes, I came out of the general's palace and copied it. road."

That is, they did not pass through South Street, and happened to miss Ding Wang and his party.

"Just now, we met King Ding's troops on South Street. It turns out that His Majesty had anticipated everything today and left a will for King Ding. King Ding was ordered not to attend the funeral but to guard the Longmen Pass Gorge. The Chinese army is already preparing and will come immediately. aid."

Li Xiaohan looked up at Zhang Fu and spoke slowly, "So, it's not a desperate situation. The road ahead is difficult. You have to take care of yourself."

After a pause, Li Xiaohan smiled softly and said, "Dingcheng is waiting for your return."

"Go back. You have a lot of things to do. It's not good for you to be seen here."

"Okay." Zhang Fu suddenly felt hope in his heart. Maybe, there is really hope.

As long as you can live, as long as there is a future, there is hope.

The people on both sides said goodbye again and stepped into the long wind and snow again. This time there were no other surprises. The group finally arrived at Pingshan Village slowly.

At this moment, Pingshan Village is still in panic. It has been a while since the bells of the emperor's collapse reached here. However, the sky is full of wind and snow, and there are no horses in Pingshan Village. Riding an ox is too risky - oxen are inherently dangerous. It is not as light as a horse, and once it falls into a snow cave, it is impossible to get out. Naturally, ordinary people are reluctant to abandon their cattle. Even if they are abandoned, people may not be able to walk back.

Pingshan Village is like a closed cage, with white linen hanging on the door of every house. Even Patriarch Li and his family cannot get any news from the outside world, but everyone's heart is becoming more and more tormented.

Therefore, when they saw Li Xiaohan and his party returning in the wind and snow, most of the people in the village came out to welcome them.

"Xiandong, you are back from the city. Your Majesty, has your Majesty left?"

Even though they were already covered in sackcloth, some old people in the clan still couldn't believe the news. They only looked at Li Xiandong with longing, hoping that this was a misunderstanding, such as misinformation from the Western Tartars.

"Third uncle," Li Xiandong said with difficulty, "Your Majesty, he has passed away."

"Your Majesty, Your Majesty!" As the third uncle cried, almost all the elders in the clan shed tears. Most of them escaped from that troubled world when they were young, and they are most concerned about their current life. It's about cherishing.

But at this moment, everyone already knew that the Western Tartar North State was attacking, and His Majesty died at this time. Could it be that God really abandoned everyone.

"Before His Majesty left, he gave the king a decree to guard Longmen Pass, and the Chinese army from the DPRK will come to support him soon." Li Xiandong said with tears.

Upon hearing the news, the third uncle and other elderly people cried louder, with blood and tears in their eyes.

In the end, it was Patriarch Li. As the head of the clan, he managed to regain his composure and said, "Deyou, help your third uncle back, don't catch a cold."

It's no joke to cry in the snow with an old skeleton in this cold weather.

Li Deyou and other young people quickly helped and carried several elderly people home.

Patriarch Li turned to the two subordinate officials and four officials and said, "I don't know how many adults are here..."

These few people, dressed in official uniforms, were still here at this moment. There should be something urgent, but they followed Li Xiaohan back. For a moment, Patriarch Li didn't know what to ask or how to respond.

"Patriarch, your Majesty has a decree, and you don't have to keep filial piety for him. He will be there when the Wei Dynasty is here. These adults have something to do, so let's go to your house first."

We were originally supposed to go to Li Xiaohan's house, but the Li house had been uninhabited for many days, the kang was cold, the stove was icy, and even hot water had to be boiled. It was really not a suitable place for conversation, so we had to go to the patriarch's house first.

"Okay, okay, okay." After hearing that His Majesty had a decree saying that there was no need to keep filial piety for him, the voices of the clan leader and others were choked with sobs. But at this moment, it was finally business that mattered, so they hurriedly led the people to their homes.

When we arrived at Patriarch Li's house, it was also completely white. When she saw the visitor, the patriarch's wife quickly brought her helpers to serve hot tea.

"You lead people to prepare a vegetarian meal, and the adults will have dinner at home at noon." The patriarch whispered to the patriarch's wife.

Walking here from Dingcheng in a windy and snowy day, I probably had to start early in the morning. At this moment, I don't know if they will stay, but at least they must have lunch.

"Okay." The patriarch's wife took a glance, counted the approximate number of people, and then said to Mrs. Wang, "Brother and sister, please take Xiaoshuang to avoid the cold. Do you want to come to the wing first?"

The Wang family was naturally unfazed. At Li Xiaoshuang's age, she was afraid that her child would be sick, so the two left together, leaving the main room alone. Li Xiaohan, Li Xiandong, the subordinate officials and officials who came with them, and Patriarch Li And Li Xinhe two people.

After drinking a cup of hot tea, the frozen hands and feet came back to life slightly. The two royal palace officials spoke first, "Clan Chief Li, because Mr. Li's contribution of garlic was a meritorious service, the royal palace exempted the Li family from Pingshan Village from all possessions." This is the document certifying the male's three-year corvee military service. Please keep it."

"Three years of exemption from corvee military service?" Patriarch Li couldn't believe his ears. He didn't even dare to think that such a thing could happen.

"Yes, of course there is a price. The Pingshan Village clan should naturally provide guidance to Mr. Li and try their best to provide the needed medicine." According to the official way of the palace, according to their understanding, the thousand acres of Panax notoginseng needs human race. Zhi, and then the people of Pingshan Village were exempted from military service.

"Definitely, definitely." Patriarch Li nodded repeatedly. He felt that the news was like a firecracker, which made people unable to recover. After a long while, he said, "Master Li?"

"Master Li Xiaohan, the seventh rank of our Ministry of War is now in trouble."

Patriarch Li stiffened and slowly turned his head to look at Li Xiaohan, his eyes as if he had seen a ghost in the daytime, and his whole body was cracked. Li Xiaohan put down the hot tea in his hand and nodded slowly to Patriarch Li.

Yes, it's her. She has been assigned to the seventh rank of the Ministry of War. Her current responsibility is to contact the Ministry of War for the necessary medicines.

"Cough, cough, cough..." Li Xinhe choked on a mouthful of hot tea. As a scholar, he naturally understood the official system of the imperial court, and he also knew how surprising it was to enter the officialdom as a woman.

Everyone present was considerate and gave the two father and son time to react. ,

After a while, Chief Li turned his head again, feeling ecstatic, and said, "The ancestors said that once someone in the clan becomes successful, it will definitely benefit the whole clan. Therefore, as the leader of a clan, he must pay attention to the big picture." and the future, pay more attention to cultivating talents in the family.

Patriarch Li has always done this, but he never expected that the talents he focused on cultivating did not meet his expectations. Even his son only passed the examination and did not let him rest assured. In the past, wild people Li Xiaohan has truly achieved his own strength and benefited his people.

Being exempted from corvee military service for three years is such a big deal. Especially at this moment when chaos is about to arise, as for what to do, it is the right thing to do.

"Okay, okay!" Chief Li couldn't hold back his joy, and turned to his subordinates and said, "We, the Li clan, will do our best to assist Mr. Li."

"Yeah. That's good." Seeing that his goal was achieved, the official continued, "The palace also rewarded Mr. Li with a thousand acres of mountain land near here. It's just that it's cold and snowy today, so we can only go up the mountain to have a look. First Let's set a rough range."

"Sir, it is not safe to go up the mountain now, but I have a map of the nearby mountain range at home. I made it myself. Although it is rough, it can be seen clearly. I wonder if you two adults would like to take a look?" Patriarch Li said.

"Then let's take a look first." The villagers probably only had a rough look at the map they made themselves. They had seen the map before coming here, but the mountains near Pingshan Village were not important areas and were too small. Naturally, the map showed I can't find it, but now I can probably look at other places and learn something about it.

Unexpectedly, when Patriarch Li's mountain map was taken out, it turned out to be modeled on the drawings on the government's land deed document. It was very clear and standard, and the two subordinate officials could tell at a glance.

"This picture of yours is very good. Could it be that it was inherited from the past?" The two subordinate officials asked in surprise.

Patriarch Li was slightly self-effacing and said, "There were people in our ancestors who wore scarlet and purple, but the descendants failed to live up to expectations. Each generation is not as good as the last. Now, after a hundred years, we can only inherit a little bit of the legacy of our ancestors."

Wearing scarlet and purple, one is a high-ranking official of the first or second rank. A hundred years ago, this can be traced back to the previous dynasty. It is also admirable that he can still maintain this inheritance.

"In this case, Patriarch Li's mountain map is naturally correct. I hope Patriarch Li can tell us what the conditions are like in the nearby mountains." The voices of the two subordinate officials were a little more respectful.

"Then I will show my shame. This place is the clan land of my Li clan. Now the prince is rewarding Mr. Li. If it is for convenience, I suggest you choose a location as close as possible." Chief Li pointed at a certain place and said road.

"Yes. According to Patriarch Li's diagram, where is the most convenient direction to draw?"

"The area toward the southwest has been purchased sporadically by other surnames, so it is more difficult to deal with." Patriarch Li paused for a moment. Seeing that no one else objected, he continued, "How about going to the southeast? , this area is mostly low hills, and it is convenient to grow medicinal materials."

"Okay, let's just take this area. Let me draw a map and documents first, and then we can put down the stone monument after the weather gets better in spring."

So, Li Xiaohan watched Patriarch Li's old fox operation and allocated a thousand acres of good land for himself.

After the discussion was completed, there was no need to go up the mountain. Now, if you go up the mountain, what you can see is not as good as this mountain map. The two subordinate officials and officials of the palace were ready to leave.

So many things happened today, they have to go back early to recover, and their family members don't know what happened.

"My lords, the weather is cold and the roads are slippery. It's better to have a simple meal before going out. Otherwise, people will easily get sick on an empty stomach. It's not too late at this time." Patriarch Li invited.

"Yes. You two adults, let's have a meal together with our official brother." Li Xiaohan helped entertain the guests.

The two royal officials looked at each other, then looked at the sky, and said, "It's done."

So we all had a meal together. It was said to be a simple meal, but it was really just some green vegetables and tofu. There was no meat or wine. There were only a few stir-fried peppers, which made people feel warm.

After finishing the meal quickly, the subordinate officer took his official leave and left.

"Dad, you and mother should go back first. I'll stay here. I have some things to talk to the clan leader and Brother Xinhe," Li Xiaohan said.

Coming back suddenly, there is no way to tell the news in advance. It is estimated that Patriarch Li and Li Xinhe are all in the dark now, and Li Xiaohan has to make it clear. There are many future plans that also require the support of the clan leader.

"Okay. Then let's go home and wait for you." Li Xiandong said without noticing.

"Chief, let's go inside and talk."

"Sure." Patriarch Li cheered up. There were really too many things going on today, and he had to understand them clearly.

=== Chapter === 150

"Are you saying that you secretly planted more than a thousand Panax notoginseng plants on the mountain?" Patriarch Li asked in disbelief.

Of course he remembered that when his son was sick, Li Xiaohan took out the six Panax notoginseng plants and said at that time that three of them were from the wild and three from his mountainous area. However, Patriarch Li never thought about this. It can also be artificially grown.

He always thought that Li Xiaohan's family had discovered it earlier, but they didn't dig it out and kept it all the time. They dug it all up for his son.

Of course, you can't say it's wrong. The three plants in front are indeed like this, but they were grown in the mountains.

After his son took the medicine, he stopped vomiting blood. Patriarch Li remembered this in his heart. Such a big love must be repaid. He secretly asked the doctor Renhe about the price of Panax notoginseng. It was shockingly expensive. The cheapest ones only cost a dozen or two per plant. Before going home, Patriarch Li said that he would slowly return the money to Li Xiaohan, but Li Xiaohan refused to accept it.

This favor is greatly owed.

Now tell him that this Panax notoginseng, the cheapest Panax notoginseng that costs more than a dozen taels, has been planted in Li Xiandong's mountainous area, with more than a thousand plants planted there.

What concept is this? How much is one thousand ten taels? There is money all over the mountains and plains! Just leave it there! Aren't you afraid of someone stealing it?

"No, you have planted so many. Everyone occasionally passes by your mountainous area. Why haven't they been discovered yet?" Patriarch Li asked.

"Imitating the wild ones, they are planted randomly and are mostly hidden among miscellaneous trees and shrubs. Besides, every early summer, we will cut the flower embryos to promote growth. Without flowers, they will look more ordinary." Li Xiaohan explained, "Moreover, the leaves of this thing look like fake ginseng. Maybe someone noticed it and mistakenly thought it was fake ginseng, so they didn't pay attention."

Patriarch Li has also seen fake ginseng. "Is it true? Fake ginseng is also true?"

Patriarch Li suspected that the mountains and plains were full of unknown silver, and he didn't discover it because he was stupid.

"No." Li Xiaohan ruthlessly interrupted the clan leader's fantasy, "Fake ginseng should be called fake ginseng angustifolia. It is neither panax notoginseng nor ginseng. It is useless and worthless."

The patriarch was slapped with cold water, but finally returned to reality, "No wonder, this is right. So what do you want to do?"

"This thousand acres of mountainous land is the price of 70% of Panax notoginseng, and it is also used to grow Panax notoginseng. This medicine is good at stopping bleeding, and I think it will be in great demand in the next few years. Next year, the Panax notoginseng I planted in the first year can be saved as seeds. Then I can plant Eucommia notoginseng and Panax notoginseng together, and plant Panax notoginseng under the Eucommia tree."

Wouldn't it be a waste to use thousands of acres of mountain land just to grow Panax notoginseng? Of course, intercropping is required. Planting Panax notoginseng under the Eucommia trees not only makes full use of the land, but also complements each other.

You also have to think about what else is suitable for interplanting.

Li Xiaohan continued, "But I have to ask everyone to help me renovate the mountainous area first, clear out the road, and clear away the useless shrubs and trees."

"There's no problem with this. They don't have to perform corvee military service for three years. They are just allowed to do this work." Chief Li said in one breath. He just went up the mountain to clear out the miscellaneous trees and dig holes to plant seedlings. At home, they don't have to go out to do hard labor in the cold, or even do military service without knowing whether they live or die. This is a big advantage for them.

"It's just that, according to you, the price of this thousand acres of mountain land is Sanqi, so what's going on with you as an official?" Patriarch Li is still puzzled.

"Oh, that's the reward for offering allicin, including the three-year exemption of male members of the Li family from military service. It was also rewarded in this name." Li Xiaohan explained.

Of course, Patriarch Li also knew about allicin. At that time, his son was almost dying of fever, and the three doctors all shook their heads, including the imperial doctor who had retired from the imperial court. Just like that, Li Xiaohan rescued him with allicin.

Such a miraculous medicine can save lives, and no reward is too high.

It's only right to offer them up. They are small civilians, and they can't protect themselves and can easily cause misfortune.

"It's okay, you can donate it, earn an official status, and get safety. I was a little worried before, we can't keep such things with us, but now it seems that you can handle it better than I thought. Well, I'm worried in vain." Patriarch Li said.

"Yes. But even though the prescription has been presented, we can still use it. I plan to build a herbal medicine shop next year like a wine shop, and then sell the finished product." Li Xiaohan added.

"This...can I continue to use this by myself?"

"Of course. The palace didn't give me any silver. If he doesn't let me continue to use it, where will I get the silver to pay for it?" Li Xiaohan said matter-of-factly, "Besides, this secret recipe is not like Panax notoginseng. Its raw material is garlic, which is plentiful and can be used to benefit everyone."

"That's the truth, but it doesn't work that way. The prince is grand." Patriarch Li sighed.

"That's true." Li Xiaohan also agreed.

After hesitating for a moment, the clan leader spoke up again, "Then what's going on with your official status? Are you going to be on duty in the future? What do you care?"

"My job is a shady job, not a real job. I don't have to do anything on weekdays." Li Xiaohan explained.

"How can it be like this? Isn't this bullying? Where is it said that official positions are not given real power? Then the full strength of the official is a matter of supervision. If you don't care about things, aren't you just a decoration? . It's too bullying." Chief Li was extremely resentful that someone in his clan had been looking forward to becoming an official for a long time.

Li Xiaohan glanced at Patriarch Li in surprise, "Chief, have you forgotten that I am a woman?"

Even if it is thousands of years later, there will still be more men than women in the officialdom, let alone now in this feudal ancient times. To truly do practical things is to carefully examine the real environment and then take action step by step. Li Xiaohan doesn't have much objection to his current starting point and entry point.

Patriarch Li was reminded by Li Xiaohan and just stopped talking, but he still said seriously, "Xiaohan, since you can make it this far, you are better than your brother Xinhe. You have to do a lot. Don't just accept this or that just because you are a woman. Money and power do not differentiate between men and women."

Li Xiaohan looked at Patriarch Li in real surprise. Unexpectedly, really unexpectedly, Patriarch Li was usually a very patriarchal person, and there was not a single girl studying in the clan.

"What are you looking at? I know what I said does not match the virtuous and virtuous people, but you are not going to follow the virtuous and virtuous path. You are fighting outside, and you are one of our own. , I have to tell you this truth."

"Clan leader, I understand. I'm not stupid." Li Xiaohan said.

"Yes, you are the smartest." Patriarch Li sighed, and after a pause, he really couldn't help but say, "These things, you really kowtow to your grandmother. When you are here, enlighten you?"

Otherwise, it doesn't make sense. Li Xiaohan also grew up as he watched him grow up, so why did he become so smart? Wisdom born out of thin air?

"Yeah. Yes, my grandmother enlightened me, and I went to school for a while when my soul went away." Li Xiaohan answered seriously, saying that he also went to heaven in his previous life.

"No wonder, no wonder. Burn incense for your grandmother." Patriarch Li, who had just become a pioneer in power, turned into a feudal superstitious person.

"Dad, I am silent and have strange powers. Sister Xiaohan is already smart." Li Xinhe on the side stopped him.

"I know, I know. Take good care of your injuries. Look at sister Xiaohan, and then look at yourself. I don't want to compare." Patriarch Li said with disgust, "I originally pointed at you as a Official, now it seems that not being an official is a blessing for you and me."

Li Xinhe was speechless. Ever since he was out of danger, his father had told him thousands of times that he acted poorly and had an unstable temperament.

Li Xiaohan didn't want to participate in the fratricidal fight between Patriarch Li and his son, "That Patriarch, I'm going back first."

In the past half day, so many things have happened, and I am very tired both mentally and physically. "By the way, Doctor Zhang will stay at my house for a while. Xin and Brother, please come to my house tomorrow. Let Dr. Zhang take your pulse and see how you are recovering now."

"Okay, you go back first, I will see how to cooperate with your plan for next year. You don't have to worry about the manpower. Don't worry too much about your brother Xinhe. I will force him to go there tomorrow." The clan leader said, "It's snowy and the road is slippery. Do you want to see me off?"

There was a lot to do, and he had to digest it so he could make arrangements.

"No, in our village, there is nothing to be afraid of." Li Xiaohan stood up and said.

"That's right, then you walk slowly." Patriarch Li said reassuringly that the children in the village have been wild in the snow since they were little. It's not a big deal if they fall. They just pat their butts and stand up to poop. .

Once again, I set foot on the small road in Pingshan Village. There was a layer of snow on the road that reached my ankles. I guess it was the bell ringing for the collapse of the emperor today, and the villagers were in no mood to clean it up. Li Xiaohan listened to the crunching sound of snow under his feet, and for a moment he felt like he was in another world.

In fact, it was only more than a month. However, so many things happened in this period of more than a month that it actually gave people the illusion that a long time had passed.

Speeding up his pace, Li Xiaohan walked quickly towards home. When she came to her house, she saw Li Lanhua hiding under a tree not far from her door. When she saw Li Xiaohan coming, Li Lanhua hesitated, but gritted her teeth and came forward.

"Sister Xiaohan...Sister Xiaohan, have you been accused of studying politics?" Li Lanhua asked with expectation.

Only then did Li Xiaohan remember that Li Lanhua's confession was included in the chain of evidence that Xuezheng had peeped into the secret recipe. It is said that after Li Lanhua determined the purpose of the visit, she very decisively told everything she knew about the school government, and she also happily pressed her fingerprints and signed her name.

"Yes. I had an occasional high fever and died on the way back to Beijing." Li Xiaohan said, which is what Zhang Fu told her later. It is not only the injury to the academic affairs, but also the fact that the imperial court gave up the academic affairs, and the academic affairs died.

"Then... what about the old man who is an academic politician?"

"I heard that Xuezheng was an only son. When the news came back, the old man became paralyzed."

Li Lanhua showed an extremely bright and joyful smile, and the hint of haze and calculation that always accompanied her in the past were completely gone.

After laughing, she slowly shed tears again. Before Li Xiaohan could think of how to comfort her, Li Lanhua wiped them away with her sleeves.

"Sister Xiaohan, thank you. You are my savior. In addition to my life, if there is anything I can do from now on, I will do whatever you ask me to do." Li Lanhua wiped her tears and said fiercely He knelt down on the ground and kowtowed three times in the snow, then stood up and said with his forehead full of mud and snow.

Li Xiaohan was confused in his heart. He was indeed the protagonist and the overlord was not strong enough. In this plot, the lines on TV should not be, "From now on, my life is yours. I will do whatever you ask me to do." "

But this is good. Li Xiaohan tilted his head slightly and said, "Very good. I saved your life for you. Now that you don't even want to give it to me, you have to keep it for yourself."

"By the way, there's nothing much to do in winter. Come over tomorrow and help peel the garlic." Li Xiaohan added.

She had too few people, so it would be nice to have one more person to do the hard work of peeling garlic. Her fingernails were peeling and painful.

Li Lanhua doesn't look like a pure white flower, but Li Xiaohan likes this wild poisonous weed.

Living is more important than anything else. Li Xiaohan, who died once, thought so too.

=== Chapter === 151

After choosing another person who could do the job for himself, Li Xiaohan felt even more relaxed when he returned home.

In her opinion, the little girl Li Lanhua was just a mistake, but the result was so cruel, especially after she came forward to testify. In the secular sense of this dynasty, her path became even more difficult.

In fact, it is nothing more than the constraints of the times. As long as there are more choices, Li Lanhua may also be the final winner. At least he will not lose with this energy.

Therefore, Li Xiaohan is willing to give her a chance and take her time to see. By her side, I can't say how good it is, but Li Lanhua can look wider and see if she can find another way out.

Back home, Li Xiandong and Wang were hard-working people. Although they had traveled all morning, they didn't stop and started working immediately when they got home.

Li Xiaohan came in and saw that the kang had been heated, Li Xiaoshuang was sleeping peacefully on it, and Li Xiandong and Wang were preparing meals in the kitchen.

"Dad, Mom, let me help you." Li Xiaohan rolled up his sleeves and said.

"No, no," Wang waved her hands repeatedly. It was just a lunch for just a few people, and we became a couple. Besides, it was almost the same. It was so cold, so why bother? Li Xiaohan wet his hands and said, "Go and have a look at the vegetable field at the back. Doctor Zhang and Uncle Zhong know that Sanqi is raising seedlings in our vegetable field, so they put down their luggage and took root there."

Wang and Li Xiandong couldn't be more satisfied that Panax notoginseng was able to exchange for a thousand acres of mountain land for their family - there was too much money and they didn't know how to spend it, but the more land, the better.

Li Xiaohan looked around and found that there was really no one he could help with, so he said, "Okay, parents, let me go to the vegetable field behind to have a look first."

"Go, go. There is snow on the ground. Don't get your shoes wet or your feet cold."

Li Xiaohan came to the vegetable field behind and saw Doctor Zhang and Old Uncle Zhong squatting in a corner of the Sanqi Nursery. The snow on the small piece of straw in front of them had been cleared, and it was obvious that the two of them were It's about removing the straw and looking at it.

Hearing the footsteps, Doctor Zhang waved to Li Xiaohan. Li Xiaohan walked over and opened the straw to take a look.

Very good, the seedlings are growing very strong and will survive the winter without any problems. From the first year they started planting Panax notoginseng to now, their family has become very skilled in everything from seed selection to sowing to seedling emergence.

These are seeds sown in autumn. They are just in time to be transplanted into the mountains next spring. By tomorrow autumn, although the few Panax notoginseng plants left in the field have been used by Li Xinhe, the Panax notoginseng they planted in the first year will be used. Seven is also mature enough to save seeds. Their Panax notoginseng was picked up year after year.

"This seedling always feels familiar to me, as if I have seen it somewhere." Doctor Zhang frowned and thought.

Li Xiaohan was slightly embarrassed, "Well, if you can still remember, one year, you and the shopkeeper came to see the Eucommia ulmoides seedlings, which were planted in the vegetable garden at that time."

At that time, Li Xiaohan had fooled Dr. Zhang.

"Ah, yes, I remembered it. At that time, I thought it was an ordinary vegetable seedling." Doctor Zhang suddenly realized it. Doctor Zhang was heartbroken and regretful. He only regretted that he was blind at that time.

Thinking of the past, Doctor Zhang stood up suddenly, pointed to another dish next to him and said,

"What's covered with straw here?"

"Chive root."

"This bush looks like its wild leaves have almost fallen off?"

"Mint bush."

"What about over there?"

"Wild shepherd's purse root. I like to eat wild shepherd's purse dumplings. My mother simply pulled some roots and planted a piece at home. Doctor Zhang, the rest are all vegetable seedlings."

"Didn't you lie to me?" Doctor Zhang asked with a frown, still holding on to some doubts, fearing that if he was not careful, history would repeat itself and he would miss something.

"I promise, I didn't lie to you." Li Xiaohan said with a smile.

"Come on, I believe you for once. Our relationship wasn't so good before. It's not convenient for you to say. I understand. But now we are trustworthy, right? I think you are such a scumbag. You are so good at growing medicinal materials, so I guess you are good at growing medicinal materials, but I can help you see how effective the medicinal materials are after growing them." Dr. Zhang was good at teaching.

"Yes, Doctor Zhang is right." Li Xiaohan nodded.

"That being the case, let's find some time in the afternoon to take a look at the Panax notoginseng on your mountain. Your seedlings are so well planted, the finished product is expected to be good." Doctor Zhang finally stated his purpose.

Li Xiaohan pondered for a while. Regarding Panax notoginseng, of course, the sooner it can be used, the better. "Okay, in that case, let's have some lunch first, and we will go up the mountain later. The earliest Panax notoginseng is in In the mountainous area allocated to my father by the clan, there are no wild animals in winter, but the way up the mountain is a little more difficult."

"It's not difficult, as long as you can go up." Doctor Zhang said.

So the matter was settled, and Doctor Zhang was finally willing to leave the vegetable garden and return to the front yard.

Hearing that he was going up the mountain later, Li Xiandong had no objection. After eating a simple lunch, he put on his big cotton coat, carried his hoes and wood knives, and the others were ready to go out.

Mrs. Wang looked at the sky. Although it wasn't snowing anymore, it was still cold. "Dad, please watch Xiao Han more."

"Yeah." Li Xiandong nodded dullly.

"Mom, don't worry, just wait at home for us to come back." Li Xiaohan waved his hand and said,

After leaving the village, the snow on the ground gradually thickened. In winter, villagers would not go up the mountain if nothing happened, so there were only four of them on the mountain, climbing up the mountain one foot deep and one foot shallow. .

Li Xiaohan felt that the soles of his feet gradually became cold and moist. It seemed that the heat on his feet gradually melted the ice and snow, and then the snow water seeped in again.

These ancient cloth shoes were really inconvenient, because the soles were all made of cloth.

If it were a wooden base, it would be too thick.

While Li Xiaohan struggled to follow, he pondered in his mind when his Eucommia tree would be ready for picking.

As for Eucommia gum, it was mostly used in the past life to make submarine cables, aerospace industry, and Eucommia rubber tires. It has good wear resistance, water resistance, and corrosion resistance. I use it to make shoe soles. Although I overuse the materials, it can be regarded as adapting to local conditions. .

Thinking about the Eucommia rubber soles, I can tolerate the coldness on the soles of my feet for the time being.

Old Uncle Zhong next to him saw Li Xiaohan frowning and distracted, and was ready to help her at any time. Unexpectedly, Li Xiaohan walked steadily on his own.

Of course, it was stable. Li Xiaohan was familiar with this journey. She often went up the mountain with her father when she was at home.

Doctor Zhang, on the other hand, walked staggeringly. As a field doctor, Doctor Zhang's physical strength was sufficient, but he was not very familiar with the road conditions and rarely went up the mountain in the winter.

There was no other way, so Old Uncle Zhong could only support Dr. Zhang from time to time.

"We're here." Li Xiandong stood in front of a tree and pulled away the snow on the bush, revealing a Panax notoginseng plant underneath.

"Let me see, let me see." Doctor Zhang, who was staggering just now, immediately threw away the old Uncle Zhong who was supporting him, stepped forward, squeezed Li Xiandong away, and squatted in front of the Panax notoginseng plant. .

"Each plant has three petioles and seven leaves per stem. Yes, yes, it is the real Panax notoginseng." Doctor Zhang said while stroking it, "dig it out and have a look."

The medicinal effect of Panax notoginseng depends on the rhizome.

Li Xiandong picked up the hoe and began to clean up from the surrounding area.

"Be careful, be careful, don't hurt your roots."

"Come on, come on, come on, I'll do it." Finally, Doctor Zhang took action himself, gently pushing aside the last bit of soil and pulling out three or seven branches and leaves.

"Hey, you said that your Sanqi has been growing for more than two years, but they are not the same size." Doctor Zhang turned back to Li Xiaohan and said doubtfully.

"Yes, I planted it in the early autumn of the 23rd year of Taihe. It grows well, perhaps because I have been cultivating it carefully since I started from the seed."

"Your seedlings are indeed growing well. But they shouldn't be as good as this?"

"In addition to cultivating the seedlings, we also artificially apply manure and cut the flower stamens at the beginning of summer and autumn, so that the energy can be used to grow roots and leaves." Li Xiaohan explained.

These are some experiences summed up in modern artificial cultivation of Panax notoginseng. However, the reason why Panax notoginseng grows so well is because of advanced experience and because Li Xiaohan doubts that Panax notoginseng in this time and space background is different from her. There may still be some slight differences in the Panax notoginseng that we knew before, and it should be changing in the direction of faster growth of the species and stronger medicinal properties.

Li Xiaohan could not fully explain the gift of nature and the creation of heaven and earth. He could only say that the effect of Li Xinhe's use of Panax notoginseng was indeed better than Li Xiaohan imagined.

While Li Xiaohan was thinking about it, Doctor Zhang had already broken open a piece of Panax notoginseng root, wiped it casually with his clothes, then put it in his mouth and started chewing it.

"Why…"

Forget it, Doctor Zhang is such a person, there is nothing he can do to persuade him.

Sure enough, after Dr. Zhang chewed for a while, he frowned and said, "Doctor Han told me earlier that these Panax notoginseng was very good. I thought you picked the best one for Li Xinhe. Now look, Any tree can be used as medicine."

"Dig up a few more plants and take a look."

In terms of medication, Dr. Zhang is the authoritative one. Although sometimes Dr. Zhang always does something unexpected, but even more so, it highlights Dr. Zhang's professionalism.

So, a few people went to dig up a few more Panax notoginseng plants, picking them randomly and digging them at will.

This degree of randomness and density shocked Doctor Zhang and Old Uncle Zhong standing aside.

I can't believe that such a precious medicinal material seems to be everywhere, and it was successfully planted in this way.

Both of them were very excited, thinking about how many medicines could be prepared here and how many people could be saved on the battlefield. What's more, it is said that they can be continuously bred and planted.

Thinking of this, the two of them looked at Li Xiaohan with admiration. With the Sanqi Gong, Li Xiaohan had saved countless people, not to mention the allicin.

Could it be that God couldn't bear to destroy the Wei Dynasty, so he sent down strange people?

At the end, after tasting the properties of the medicines one by one, Doctor Zhang said seriously, "Miss Li, you should know that the best time to harvest Panax notoginseng is after the fruits bear fruit in early autumn. I originally planned to do so, but the weather is also bad now." It's not very suitable, and the efficacy may not be the best, so it's better to wait until spring to dig it out."

Li Xiaohan nodded, that was indeed the case.

"But your Panax notoginseng is much better than I thought. Although the time is shorter, the medicinal properties have already been achieved. In this case, it is better to dig now. Maybe the first batch of troops to set out will still be there. It can be used. The sooner it is used, the more lives may be saved."

At this moment, Dr. Zhang's compassion as a doctor was fully demonstrated.

"In terms of medicine use, we listen to you, Doctor Zhang." Li Xiaohan nodded, "Pingshan Village only has the manpower to dig up, but we don't have mature people who are good at processing medicinal materials."

If these batches of medicinal materials are dug out and not processed as soon as possible, they will be wasted.

"I'll go back to the city tomorrow and I'll make arrangements." Doctor Zhang said. He has now accumulated a bit of fame. I believe no one will refuse such a good thing.

"Sure. Let's go down the mountain first." Now that the discussion was complete, Li Xiaohan was ready to go down the mountain. It's so cold.

"dig a few more." Dr. Zhang looked at the mountain, like a mouse falling into a granary, reluctant to leave. When we entered Debao Mountain, we only dug out a few Panax notoginseng trees. How could we bear to leave?

"...It works." Li Xiaohan was helpless. No matter which time and space he came, his mentality was the same.

=== Chapter === 152

Dr. Zhang's digging was endless. A doctor hoarding medicines is like a hamster hoarding food. He has no idea of the limit.

"Doctor Zhang, the Panax notoginseng is in the mountains and won't be able to run around with long legs. If we don't leave, the long-legged ones in the mountains will come out." Li Xiaohan persuaded with half amusement.

"Yes, it gets dark early in winter. After dark, no matter how safe the mountain is, there may be dangers. If you step on a hibernating snake or the like, it's not easy to deal with. Let's go down the mountain first." The experienced Lao Zhong Uncle also advised.

Doctor Zhang looked at the endless mountains, and then at the nearly full basket behind Li Xiandong - no one could walk as freely as Li Xiandong in this mountainous area, so most of the medicine was on Li Xiandong. , Old Uncle Zhong kept his head light and watched Li Xiaohan and Doctor Zhang at all times.

"Okay, let's go down the mountain." Doctor Zhang said reluctantly. Anyway, there will be a lot of time in the future.

The way down the mountain is more difficult than the way up. Fortunately, Li Xiandong and Li Xiaohan are familiar with the road conditions. Old Uncle Zhong is in good health. Only Doctor Zhang is left. The excitement may have exhausted his energy and he staggered.

But after finally returning home smoothly, Mrs. Wang hugged Li Xiaoshuang and hurriedly greeted her, "Why did you come back so late?"

As she spoke, she held Li Xiaoshuang with one hand and held Li Xiaohan's hand with the other. She felt that Li Xiaohan's hand was still warm, and then she felt relieved - in two days, it would be Li Xiaohan's. It's getting close to the hairpin day, so getting sick at this time is not a good sign.

"Mom, I'm fine. I keep walking and it's very warm." Li Xiaohan comforted her.

Mrs. Wang lowered her head and saw that Li Xiaohan's shoes had been soaked in snow water. "This child is cold from the very feet down. How could you not know! Go and change into a pair of dry shoes, and then go to the kitchen to warm up the fire." Warm yourself up. Quick."

As he spoke, Wang ignored the others and just pushed Li Xiaohan into the room. Old Uncle Zhong was a little embarrassed, but Doctor Zhang said, "Don't worry, she has a strong body and strong temper, so she won't get sick."

Mrs. Wang gritted her teeth and didn't look back. Doctor Zhang didn't care either and just said to Li Xiandong, "It's just right. I see you have a well at home. You can bring me a clean wooden plate and I'll put these Sanqi Dealt with it."

Li Xiandong looked at his wife and daughter who came into the room, said yes, brought a clean wooden tray to Dr. Zhang, and helped to hoist the water up.

Here, Mrs. Wang stared at Li Xiaohan as he changed his shoes, and then whispered, "Xiaohan, don't just listen to Dr. Zhang. You are almost here, and you should understand some things. You... "Kui Shui is about to come. At this time, don't get cold easily, otherwise you will suffer if you come here once a month."

Li Xiaohan was stunned for a moment, but no, she was already fifteen years old and her aunt was about to have a baby. She almost forgot.

Ah, she didn't want to come to visit her aunt. It was so inconvenient. This was still in ancient times when there were no related supplies.

Seeing that Li Xiaohan was stunned, Mrs. Wang thought that Li Xiaohan was afraid, so she continued to persuade, "Don't be afraid, every woman has to go through this. It means you will feel a little more uncomfortable every month, and it will pass after you endure it." "

Only then did Li Xiaohan realize that Wang and the others could just endure the pain and let it go.

"Mom, are you in pain? Do you endure it every month?" Li Xiaohan blamed himself for not being careful enough and not noticing this.

"It used to hurt, but after we separated, our family ate well and got better, so the pain became less. Later, after Xiao Shuang was born, she probably recovered well during confinement, but now there is nothing." It's serious." Mrs. Wang sighed and said, "I didn't know that before, but later we lived in Fucheng, and the woman Wang Wen who delivered my baby lived in our alley. She knew this and often called me Pay attention."

"So, we women can't catch the cold. Don't just rely on your good health to ignore it." Wang said. She knows that her daughter attaches great importance to her body, but she is afraid that her daughter will not know about it at a young age.

"Yes. Mom, I understand." Li Xiaohan nodded. She didn't want to suffer from dysmenorrhea in this era. There was no ibuprofen to relieve pain, so it would be really painful.

"As long as you know." Mrs. Wang patted Li Xiaohan's hand gently, "Let's go to the kitchen to make a fire, and I'll make you some eggs and ginger water."

Fortunately, in this era, eating eggs in observance of filial piety does not count as eating meat.

Li Xiaohan was very obedient and even took Li Xiaoshuang over and teased her, "Xiaoshuang, can you come with me, my sister? Mom has to work."

Li Xiaoshuang mumbled out a few words, "Sister, sister."

She was drooling while talking, but the child was chubby and the little drool was very cute. Li Xiaohan gently wiped her neck with the scarf and even kissed her secretly. Forehead .

After Wang had cooked the eggs and ginger, he served a bowl to Li Xiaohan and specially added a large handful of brown sugar, and then asked Li Xiandong and others to eat the rest.

In the middle of winter, no one will say no to a trip to the mountains and some hot food.

Doctor Zhang, seeing how cautious Wang was, put the bowl down after finishing the meal and said to Li Xiaohan, "Put out your hand and I'll feel your pulse."

Li Xiaohan is not shy either. As a doctor, there is no reason to hide a disease and avoid medical treatment. He just takes care of it.

Doctor Zhang felt the pulse for a moment and said, "The breath is as strong as an ox, and nothing will happen in the future."

Although Dr. Zhang doesn't see many women's diseases, in the doctor's eyes, the body is like a tree with countless branches growing out of it. As long as the roots are deep and the tree is strong, there will be no problems. What a big deal.

Li Xiaohan glanced at Dr. Zhang in surprise. It is said that an experienced and experienced traditional Chinese medicine doctor is simply a friend of women. For things like dysmenorrhea and infertility, the old traditional Chinese medicine doctor should be consulted for treatment. In her previous life, she was a Chinese herbal medicine planting base, and she had some indirect access to this information channel.

Could it be that Doctor Zhang is the same one? She has never doubted Doctor Zhang's medical skills, but recently Doctor Zhang has been running around on the battlefield, and she has forgotten that her mother and her father were still treated by Doctor Zhang.

It's really disrespectful.

"Thank you, Doctor Zhang." Li Xiaohan said with a smile as bright as a flower.

"You're welcome. Come and help me with the medicinal materials after eating." Dr. Zhang said. Li Xiaohan can grow medicine and is good at frying Eucommia ulmoides before, so he can use the ingredients to process this Panax notoginseng.

"Hey." Li Xiaohan responded quickly. She had always wanted to learn the skills of dealing with Panax notoginseng.

So Li Xiaohan drank quickly, and immediately squatted next to Dr. Zhang after drinking, "Doctor Zhang, I'm here."

"Yes." Doctor Zhang raised his head, looked at Li Xiaohan, and said seriously, "To process fresh Panax notoginseng, first put it in clean water and brush it for a few times, then take it out immediately and soak it for a long time. It has lost its efficacy after a long time. Then use a small brush to clean all the soil in the gaps. In fact, if the weather is good, it is best to dry it in the sun, but now the weather is bad, you can only dry it slowly over a charcoal fire later. "

Doctor Zhang felt very sorry for the bad weather.

"Okay, Doctor Zhang, I understand." Li Xiaohan responded, this process is the same as in the previous life.

In fact, Li Xiaohan knew that in his previous life, there were mechanized operations, such as cleaning by hanging it in a machine, and then drying it in a large oven instead of in the sun, and slicing it was not done by that kind of machine.

However, the base where Li Xiaohan is located has a traditional Chinese medicine institution that they have been cooperating with. They require traditional methods of processing, that is, manual cleaning and then natural drying. They do not need to cut them. It is said that when people re-use medicine, they will do it one by one on site. Slicing and boiling, it is said that this way can retain the natural power of the medicine to the greatest extent.

Li Xiaohan thought to himself, his hands and feet are not slow. Doctor Zhang was uneasy at first and stared at Li Xiaohan from time to time. Later, he felt relieved when he saw that Li Xiaohan was quick and clean.

"Dad, come here, you can help us." How could Li Xiaohan let go of one of his own when he had the opportunity to learn something. But Wang had to take Li Xiaoshuang with him, so he didn't have time to come over. But it doesn't matter, there will be plenty of opportunities in the future.

"Well, I don't know how to do this." Next to him, Li Xiandong was chopping firewood for the kang for the past few days. Hearing this, he said.

"Dad, come here, this is very easy." He turned to Dr. Zhang and said, "Doctor Zhang, I am not praising myself, my father's hands are much more skillful than mine, and they are more skillful. Also, look at the bamboo sieves, bamboo baskets and other things in our house. They are all made by my father's hands. They are neat and will not hurt anyone. Look at the firewood he just chopped. Not about the same size."

Doctor Zhang looked up and saw that Li Xiandong was chopping almost the same amount of firewood. He nodded and said, "Okay, come over and help."

"Dad, come here quickly." Li Xiaohan waved cheerfully.

"You go over there, I'll do it as long as I'm here." Old Uncle Zhong said. After looking at it for a long time, he found that just brushing it with a brush was not as satisfying as chopping firewood.

But for farmers like them, it's also a good idea to learn the art of planting seeds and brushing them.

Miss Li really doesn't treat her own people badly.

Old Uncle Zhong raised his knife and dropped it, and a piece of firewood opened in response. Sure enough, men like them who came out of blood can still be happy like this.

Besides, the second young master was already very unhappy when Qingsong told him about Sanqi last time. Didn't Qingsong never leave the second young master to do anything alone?

That is, I told Qingsong that I wanted to tell the second young master to stop talking, so the second young master did not blame him too much. Miss Li seemed to have vaguely protected herself before she could come back again.

Not to mention anything else, the pepper wine in Qingshan Village is indeed more refreshing than training the guards in the palace, especially when the general and others are out, and his legs and feet are not convenient for going to the battlefield.

Old Uncle Zhong thought, this firewood would chop better.

Clean the Panax notoginseng, put it on a sieve to drain the water on the surface, Li Xiaohan took out the charcoal basin at home, lit the charcoal fire, and dried it carefully.

"Doctor Zhang, is this done with Sanqi?" Li Xiaohan asked.

"Let's treat it roughly like this first. When it is sent to the army, the condition will be checked, and then it will be ground and processed for use." Dr. Zhang said.

"During the war, you were very busy, right? Is there time to grind and boil it again?" Li Xiaohan asked, "Isn't there the kind of powder in a bottle that can be poured out directly and sprinkled on the wound? That's it. How convenient."

"You man, why don't you say why you don't eat minced meat?" Doctor Zhang didn't even raise his head.

Li Xiaohan couldn't believe it. Why didn't she eat minced meat? Her background and history of struggle were no different from that fool on the throne.

"Doctor Zhang, I was wronged." Li Xiaohan said.

"Do you know how precious the medicine in the small bottle is? It's for high-ranking officials and nobles."

"Then ordinary medicinal materials can't be put in bottles?" Li Xiaohan said, no, this bottle can contain high and low medicinal materials.

"It's not impossible, it's just that after the medicinal materials are ground into powder, if they cannot be used immediately, if they are left in the bottle for a little longer, they will easily lose their medicinal properties. If they lose their medicinal properties, the medicine will be useless," Dr. Zhang explained , "This bottle is useless for the rich people, and there is still another bottle. We can't afford this kind of waste, so why don't we go to trouble and deal with it on site."

Oh, Li Xiaohan understands, the sealing technology of this dynasty was not good. After being ground into powder, it comes into contact with moisture and bacteria in the air, and it is easy to be oxidized and contaminated by insects.

It's really convenient to just grind it into powder and you can use it right away.

Is there any way?

Li Xiaohan frowned and thought.

=== Chapter === 153

"Mom, I'll take out a handful of plant ashes."

After dinner, Li Xiaohan came to the kitchen with an empty wine bottle, stood in front of the stove and prepared to dig out the ashes. As for wine bottles, the Li family doesn't have many of them, but there are a lot of empty wine bottles, large and small.

"What are you doing with this? Be careful because it's hot. Do you want my help?" Mrs. Wang was washing dishes with hot water and said quickly when she saw it.

"No, I want to do an experiment." The plant ash in the stove was still a little warm. Seeing this, Li Xiaohan did not pour it directly into the bottle, but instead used a dustpan to put it in it.

After thinking about it, Li Xiaohan brought the plant ash to the main room, Li Xiandong took Li Xiaoshuang, and Doctor Zhang was roasting his panax notoginseng under the light of the fire plate, and old Uncle Zhong was helping.

"Doctor Zhang, as for what I said this afternoon, I think grinding Panax notoginseng into powder would be of great benefit." Li Xiaohan held a wine jar in his left hand and a small bottle filled with plant ash in his right hand. Dustpan, he said to Dr. Zhang with a serious face, "If we can find a way to grind not only Panax notoginseng into powder, but also other medicinal materials, then it will be a ready-made medicine, and we can use it directly when the time comes. How much time can be saved?"

Doctor Zhang, who was roasting Panax notoginseng, raised his head to look at Li Xiaohan. Seeing Li Xiaohan's serious look, he also put the Panax notoginseng aside and sighed, "Not only can it save time, but more importantly, it can save people." .Do you know how many doctors are deployed on the battlefield?"

Li Xiaohan shook his head, but she could guess that it must be lacking.

"Our court has stipulated that a battalion of 3,000 soldiers should be equipped with one medical officer and one assistant family member. On weekdays, we can barely support it. If a war breaks out, it is very likely that the doctors have not arrived and the soldiers have already shed all their blood. "

"If patent medicines can be well preserved, it will not only save the time of boiling and taking medicines, but more importantly, most traumas are treated in the same way, hemostatic bandaging. If you can have what you said, With the finished medicine, most people can directly help apply the medicine with a little training." Doctor Zhang sighed, "However, this medicine is difficult to preserve, and these medicinal materials are precious and cannot be wasted."

Li Xiaohan nodded, isn't this a nurse? Normal operations are left to nurses.

"That's why we have to give it a try." Li Xiaohan stretched out the dustpan in his right hand, "If the plant ash in my hand is medicinal powder, if the medicinal powder can be kept dry and clean, the efficacy of the medicine can be extended as much as possible. , we will work hard in this direction."

"Pour the plant ash into the wine bottle. The wine bottle can hold wine and is very airtight. Then throw a pack of quicklime into it. The quicklime will absorb water and dry." Li Xiaohan said, wrapping the quicklime prepared earlier in a fine cloth. inside, then tie it with a rope, press it into a long strip and place it on top of the plant ash in the bottle, and finally plug the cork. "We can use wax sealing to seal the cork and its surroundings so that moisture cannot get in. It can probably extend the shelf life of finished medicines."

"You just threw the quicklime in to absorb the water?" Doctor Zhang became interested and asked.

"Yes, quicklime can effectively absorb water and keep it dry. After drying, there will be less odor." Li Xiaohan explained that there is no way to vacuum packaging, but quicklime can be used as a desiccant. "The wax seal is also to prevent the cracks in the gaps. Moisture and other odors get in."

Li Xiaohan discovered that although ancient people did not have the concept of bacteria, they understood and expressed it as foul air. Any unexplainable thing, as long as it is said to be foul air, it is almost like, oh, that's right, that's it.

Sure enough, Doctor Zhang nodded, "Well, that's right. Then give it a try, give it a try."

By the end of the sentence, Doctor Zhang had stood up and his tone became eager to try.

So, Li Xiaohan took a stick of white wax, put it in a pottery bowl, heated it to melt it, and poured it tilted onto the cork of the wine bottle just now.

The white wax gradually solidifies and forms a protective film. The weather was cold, and soon the wax hardened.

"Try it. Put this wine bottle in a bucket. As long as the water does not penetrate, it at least means that you are not afraid of water." Li Xiaohan said.

The old uncle Zhong next to him had already helped to bring a bucket of water with a hint of help. Li Xiaohan gently put the wine bottle down. The water gradually covered the bottom, body and cap of the bottle, and finally was completely submerged.

The other three grown men in the same room watched helplessly as Li Xiaohan operated. Even Li Xiaoshuang, who was in Li Xiandong's arms, looked at him curiously with a pair of big watery eyes, thinking they were playing some interesting game.

After a cup of tea,

"No bubbles came out." Li Xiaohan said.

There were still some bubbles at the beginning, but now there are no bubbles visible to the naked eye. "The water should not have penetrated."

When people breathe in water, bubbles will come out. If the wine jar is filled with water, bubbles will slowly come out.

"Would you like to take it out and take a look?" Old Uncle Zhong was worried. If this method could work, how many more brothers and descendants could be saved.

"Wait a little longer, maybe it just seeps slowly." Li Xiaohan said cautiously.

So, everyone waited for another half an hour, until the little Li Xiaoshuang had changed from curiosity to impatience, and finally fell asleep with her eyes closed. After finishing her work in the kitchen, Mrs. Wang came over and took Li Xiaoshuang away and took her back to her room to sleep. Li Xiaohan and others were left staring at the wine jar.

Dr. Zhang's panax notoginseng is not roasted anymore, lest it get damaged instead of drying out.

"It's almost done. Let's take it out and take a look."

"become."

Li Xiaohan took out the wine bottle from the bucket. Li Xiandong quickly wiped the water from the bottle with a dry rag. Then Li Xiaohan gently twisted it to solidify and seal the bottle mouth. The white wax on the cork was destroyed and the cork was taken out. .

Several people came over to look at the cork. "It's dry and has no water. It's indeed sealed."

There was surprise in the voice.

Li Xiaohan poured the plant ash in the wine bottle into the original dustpan, and several people stroked it carefully. "It's still dry, without moisture."

The dry and wet hardening of plant ash are completely different, which basically confirms that there is no problem with this method.

"Maybe the time is too short. Let's seal it again and take a look tomorrow morning." Li Xiaohan said, pouring the plant ash back, then melting the remaining white wax, and sealing it again.

"You said, why didn't we think of such a simple and easy-to-understand method?" Doctor Zhang said with emotion as he watched Li Xiaohan operate, "It can be continued to be sealed with wax after one use, which is convenient and hassle-free. "

Obviously this is very simple.

"That's because the method came out. Looking back, it's so simple." Old Uncle Zhong sighed, "I have never seen such good white wax before. Is the white wax we burned in the past called wax? When it is burned, They are all hard and black. Good beeswax is a tribute. We only have some in the prince's palace in Dingcheng. Who dares to use beeswax?"

"Yes, wax is more precious than medicine. How can it be used to seal medicine? No wonder it's unexpected." Dr. Zhang sighed.

"Actually, there is still a disadvantage of wax. If there is a collision, the wax will be easily broken and have gaps. Moreover, it does not mean that there is wax in every place and can be sealed anytime and anywhere." Li Xiaohan said.

In fact, the best thing is to use a layer of glue to seal the threaded mouth like a can bottle cap, which is really convenient, strong and easy to use.

Unfortunately, for a while, the weather is so cold that Eucommia gum cannot be made. We will have to think of a way next year after the weather warms up.

"If this method can be used, it will be much better than before. What are you afraid of if the wax breaks? Just be careful. If it doesn't work, just seal it with wax again. There is more white wax now."

There is a big harvest of white wax this year, and this little bit of white wax can still be saved. Needless to say, there will only be more and more white wax in Dingcheng in the future.

"Yes, Miss Li, you can think of this method is already very good." Old Uncle Zhong said.

"Yes. Take your time. Use this method first." Li Xiaohan looked at the wine bottle in the bucket

It was getting late, and after looking at the wine bottles for a while, everyone reluctantly fell asleep.

Early the next morning, perhaps because he had something on his mind and was thinking about the wine bottle in the hall, Li Xiaohan woke up early.

As a result, when she finished washing and came out of the backyard, she found that in the main room, Doctor Zhang and Old Uncle Zhong had already taken out the wine bottle and spread out the plant ashes and flicked them around.

I guess these two were more anxious to know the outcome than she was.

"You're awake, come and take a look." Dr. Zhang heard the footsteps, turned his head and waved to Li Xiaohan.

"How is it?" Li Xiaohan quickly stepped forward and asked, looking at the plant ashes in the small dustpan.

Hey, it's not that dry anymore. This is not a good situation.

"It's a little moist. I think it was soaked in a little water." Doctor Zhang explained with a smile, obviously having thought of a solution, "But the wine jar will lose less wine if left for a long time. It doesn't matter, I I know there are better ceramic bottles, and I'll just have someone customize a batch when the time comes."

"That's okay."

Li Xiaohan used his fingertips to carefully twist the plant ash in the dustpan. Although it was a bit stiff, it was not much. Thinking about this ordinary wine jar, even if it clears the water, it would not be serious. The pottery making technology of this dynasty was still very good.

Look at the quicklime wrapped in muslin cloth again. Well, the quicklime has also hardened. It has obviously reacted with water. "When the time comes, put a few more packets of this quicklime in the bottle."

"right."

After seeing the ashes of the vegetation and having breakfast, there was a knock on the door of the Li family.

It was Li Lanhua who came to peel garlic, and she happened to meet Li Hehua at the door.

"What are you doing here?" Li Hehua asked warily. Why, the master has just come back, and Li Lanhua is here again. This time she will not be soft-hearted. The master is hers, and no one can take it away.

Li Lanhua was slightly embarrassed when she saw Li Hehua. Now she also knows that what she did before was a bit unkind.

However, if she was asked to retreat like this, she was unwilling. After all, it was rare for Sister Xiaohan to let her do something.

So, Li Hehua looked like he had seen a ghost. Li Lanhua, who had been so pretentious and proud in the past, bowed deeply to herself and apologized, "Sister Hehua, I'm sorry earlier. I came to see Sister Xiaohan, Xiaohan." Sister asked me to peel garlic."

Li Hehua was startled for a moment, then came to her senses, with deep doubts in her eyes, "Master is still looking for you?"

As for peeling garlic, Master naturally has a use for it. Let alone peeling garlic, it means eating garlic raw. As long as Master says, no matter Li Hehua or others, many people will close their eyes and be willing to do so. Do.

Li Lanhua just smiled. She didn't know Li Xiaohan's intention. In short, he must be nice to her.

The two of them entered the door together. Li Xiaohan saw it and said, "Ah, just right, you are here together. Come on, let's peel the garlic together."

When Dr. Zhang's customized bottle arrives, we can try to preserve allicin together. Allicin is unstable. Although there are alcohol extraction methods that can stabilize allicin as much as possible and increase the allicin content, it does not solve the problem of allicin dissolving in water. If it can be sealed and stored in the same way, it is estimated that allicin can be stored for a long time. It can last a little longer.

The conditions are difficult, so do more if you can.

Here in the front yard, three girls are peeling garlic. Behind them, Mrs. Wang and Li Xiandong are talking worriedly, "Dad, tomorrow is the day when Xiaohan will be born, what should we do?"

Although the late emperor had a decree saying that there was no need to stop to observe filial piety for him and everything should go as usual, but that was because the war was tense, which showed the benevolence of the late emperor. Nowadays, although filial piety is not observed in Dingcheng, even in a small village like Pingshan Village, there is no bright color and everyone is dull.

As for banquets and wedding banquets, that's all mentioned and no one mentioned it.

Therefore, it seems that Li Xiaohan's hairpin banquet cannot be held.

It's just that there is only one banquet in life. Her girl is so good-looking and grown up, but it happened to happen at this time.

Mrs. Wang now only feels sorry for her own girl.

"Alas." Li Xiandong also frowned, looking down at the ground for a long time, and then said, "Tomorrow, you can cook some eggs for Xiaohan, and then pick out some bright hairpins for Xiaohan in the room, and let's secretly A celebration."

"If not, how many more days can we postpone it?" Mrs. Wang was still unwilling to give in. There is a time when filial piety must be observed to the end.

"It won't work. Our Xiaohan is an official now. Officials are more particular than us civilians. She has to stay on guard longer." Li Xiandong gritted his teeth and said, "We can't leave any clues because of this."

After all, Li Xiandong also went to Fucheng and gradually got to know it.

"It's been so difficult for Xiaohan to become an official. I see that she can still move up in the future, so she can't be delayed by this."

"Sure, it's up to you." Wang thought about the splendid official uniforms and felt that her unwillingness was a little less.

In this world, every woman has hair extensions, but she is the only female official.

Whatever is gained, something is lost.

=== Chapter === 154

December 14th, Xiaohan day, Pingshan Village.

It was almost dawn, and the fire wall in the room was burning at just the right temperature. Li Xiaohan was half asleep and half awake when he heard Mrs. Wang calling him.

"Xiaohan, are you up?"

It was not a dream, there was a gentle knock on the door.

"Mom, I'm awake, come in." Li Xiaohan wiped his face and said.

With a creaking sound, Mrs. Wang held a wooden tray with several wooden boxes on it, quickly pushed the door in, and then quickly closed the door to shut out the coldness.

Gently putting down the wooden support, Wang reached out to touch Li Xiaohan's hair scattered on the pillow, and said softly, "Girl, today is a good day for you. Get dressed first. Your father will come in later."

The daughter is now older and avoids her father. Li Xiandong will no longer easily enter Li Xiaohan's room.

"Okay." Li Xiaohan said. She had been making clothes every day, so she would not forget that today was her haircut day.

But now that the late emperor had just passed away, the people were mourning, and since she was an official, she naturally couldn't celebrate in a big way. The finished clothes are too gorgeous, and I will definitely not be able to wear them today.

"Wear your new clothes. You have to wear new clothes on good days, and you will always have new clothes to wear in the future. There are three of us in the room, it doesn't matter." Mrs. Wang lit the candle on the table. Said in a low voice.

Li Xiaohan thought about it for a while and agreed. Although she didn't have much obsession with the hairpin day, it seemed that Wang and Li Xiandong must be very sorry. They just wanted to wear new clothes in their room. , this is nothing.

The new clothes were quickly changed. They were the best clothes customized by the ready-made clothes shop in Fucheng. They were a light pink satin dark pattern gown and long skirt, with a red outer cover embroidered with hundreds of flowers and branches, and a circle of snow-white rabbit fur around it. The face is not only luxurious, but also has the charm of a young girl who has just grown up.

"Sit over here by the kang and let me comb your hair." Mrs. Wang said.

Li Xiaohan sat down beside the kang. Wang took out an exquisite wooden comb from the wooden holder and gently helped Li Xiaohan comb his hair.

After more than two years of maintenance, Li Xiaohan's hair is now black and smooth, very healthy and beautiful.

Mrs. Wang combed her hair, feeling very proud. At that time, black hair and snow-skinned skin were regarded as beautiful. Her daughter was not the fairest, but her complexion was rosy. Her black hair was really smooth, extremely black, and incomparable. People can reach it.

After combing her hair, Wang dexterously tied her hair up. She had obviously practiced it for a long time. Wang did it very smoothly. After a while, she had already put her hair into a beautiful bun.

Then he opened the box on the wooden support, and suddenly the golden light shone, and the candlelight almost dazzled human eyes. According to the aesthetics of Wang and Li Xiandong, gold is naturally the most expensive. It has a heart-shaped hollow and gorgeous atmosphere. The temples on both sides are delicate and light. The butterfly-shaped hairpins are ready to fly. After bringing the whole set, Wang looked at it carefully and smiled with satisfaction. He said, "My Xiaohan is indeed the most handsome in the surrounding area."

After that, he took the bronze mirror to Li Xiaohan for a closer look. Li Xiaohan took a closer look and found that after dressing up, the girl inside was indeed much prettier than usual. There are few women who don't like fancy clothes and jewelry. Li Xiaohan stood up and looked left and right, feeling very satisfied with what he looked like.

As expected of her carefully maintained body, she is healthy and beautiful.

"Daddy, come in." Wang said to the door when she saw Li Xiaohan put down the mirror.

"Hey." A low response came from outside the door, and Li Xiandong also came in with a wooden pallet. The difference was that the wooden pallet was much rougher, and it was not a wooden box on top, but a bib made of straw. Holding a steaming small pot, this is a daily equipment used by farmers in winter, which can keep meals hot.

"Dad, do I look good like this?" Li Xiaohan turned around and said with a smile.

Li Xiandong, who was usually silent and honest, smiled broadly and said, "It looks good."

After thinking for a while, he added, "She has grown into a big girl."

"Father, mother, no matter how old I am, I am still your daughter."

"Well, she will be our daughter for the rest of her life."

The atmosphere made people couldn't help but feel slightly moist in their eyes. Li Xiaohan blinked, changed the subject and said, "Dad, what did you get?"

"Is it time yet?" Wang asked.

"I see, it's almost time." Li Xiandong replied.

"Then let's eat." Mrs. Wang opened the small pot. Inside was a portion of egg, tofu and mushroom noodles. The steam was steaming and the aroma was fragrant. It looked very delicious.

Li Xiaohan sat at the table, gargled his mouth with green salt water, and then took the chopsticks handed over by Mrs. Wang, "Mom, was I born at this time in the morning?"

When Wang asked about the time just now, she guessed it was like this.

"Yes. I gave birth to you at that time. Just after giving birth, I heard a loud rooster crow in our house." Mrs. Wang said.

"Yes, after giving birth to you, I just cooked a bowl of eggs for your mother, and the sun jumped out of the sky." Li Xiandong said.

"It's a very good sign." Wang said. "The old man said that this is very lucky."

"No, otherwise I would be like this now." Li Xiaohan nodded crazily in agreement while eating noodles.

It seems that not only the emperor likes to have an extraordinary background for himself, such as being surrounded by fairy music and white cranes when he is born, but her parents also like this. However, their knowledge is limited and they can only draw materials from around them. The rooster crows. At dawn and sunrise, it's a bit too down-to-earth.

Thinking about this, Li Xiaohan felt slightly warm again and took a big mouthful of noodles. It was so delicious.

At this moment, a rooster crowed loudly from Li Gui's house next to him, oh oh oh!

Then, there seemed to be a jump in front of the window, and bright yellow light shone faintly through the window. Its daybreak!

"That's it!" Wang and Li Xiandong both said.

Li Xiaohan was startled, and he almost thought that he was really having a strange vision. He laughed after a while, but it was just the beginning of a normal day.

Your own destiny must be in your own hands.

I finished the last noodle carefully and drank the soup base. It was just right and I was eighty percent full. As expected, Mrs. Wang and Li Xiandong knew her appetite very well.

After eating, Li Xiandong put away the bowls and chopsticks and left. Wang helped Li Xiaohan remove the hairpin from his head and changed back into simple clothes.

The gap was quite big for a while, and Mrs. Wang was still upset, "It's a pity that you are an official, otherwise we wouldn't be able to hold a hairpin banquet in a few days. Now that it looks so good, I can only wear it in the room by myself." "

"Mom, it doesn't matter, I still like my official clothes the most." Li Xiaohan said with a smile.

Power and wealth are the most beautiful decorations of a woman.

Wang smiled and calmed down.

After changing my clothes and opening the door, the chill in the air made me sober.

A new day has begun and everyone is getting busy.

But not long after, there was a knock on the door of the Li family's backyard, "Sister Wang, Xiaohan, are you awake? I'm coming in."

It was the voice of the patriarch's wife. Li Xiaohan put down his work and ran to open the door. Mrs. Wang is busy feeding Li Xiaoshuang breakfast. In winter, she doesn't dare to eat all over herself. Children can easily catch cold when changing clothes, and it's troublesome for adults to wash clothes.

"Auntie, you came here so early." Li Xiaohan said with a smile.

The patriarch's wife looked at Li Xiaohan carefully and wanted to touch his head, but found that Li Xiaohan was already taller than her. She could only clapped her hands and said with a smile, "You're a big girl, you're so tall. I'm so tall." Come and visit us, you take me to find your mother."

"Hey." Li Xiaohan smiled and led the patriarch's wife in, "Mom, my uncle is here."

After Mrs. Wang fed Li Xiaoshuang the last bite, she wiped Li Xiaoshuang's mouth, pointed to the kang and said, "Let's go play."

Li Xiaoshuang ran away with her short legs. Wang stood up and said to the patriarch's wife, "Sister-in-law is here, sit down, sit down."

The patriarch's wife sat down and pointed at Li Xiaohan and said, "Xiaohan, sit down too and chat with my mother-in-law and your mother."

Then he turned to look at Mr. Wang, "In the past, when I saw Xiaohan, eight times out of ten, it was my family's letters and accidents. I couldn't care about anything else. Today, if I take a closer look, it's terrible. Xiaohan's... You have grown into a big girl. She is tall and straight, taking advantage of the advantages of you and Xiandong. The sight of her energy makes you happy."

Wang was very happy in her heart, but she still said modestly, "Don't say that about her, that is, she is taller. The other thing is that you like her, so she looks good."

The patriarch's wife glared and pretended to be annoyed, "Why do I look at it because I like it? Look at this stature, look at his appearance, look at this talent, it's not me, there is nothing like this in all the villages and towns." Good girl. My natal family is far away, otherwise I really want to introduce her back to my natal family. Oh, I knew you would be reluctant to part with her, so I didn't say anything to be such a bad person. "

When a girl has hair extensions, she can prepare for the marriage. It will take a lot of effort to find a suitable and good family.

The patriarch's wife's natal family is really far away, and her brother is considered a minor official. A few years ago, he suddenly fell in love with a Shangguan and was taken to his post. There are only a few people in the family, but not all of them went together.

Wang smiled and told the truth, "Yes, she has grown so big in front of her. Her father and I want to stay for a few more years. When we get married, we also want to find a family that can always look after her."

"No, it's better for a woman to be close to her mother's family." The patriarch's wife sighed, then touched Li Xiaohan's hand and said, "Xiaohan, don't be shy, you are old now, it's time to take care of yourself. I What you said to your mother is based on the experience of people who have been there. Although the words are rough, the reasoning is not rough."

Li Xiaohan smiled, he could only pretend to be shy at this time.

The patriarch's wife lowered her voice and said, "My old man said that Xiaohan is now an official. No one expected that this day would happen. You guys definitely won't be able to hold a banquet, so you called me. Congratulations quietly."

After that, he handed Wang a wooden box, which was quite big. "It's our sincere thought. I'll give Xiaohan some makeup in the future."

"Hey, thank you sister-in-law, I'll accept it for Xiaohan. You'll have to take care of her more in the future." Wang didn't refuse and accepted it. This was the etiquette of the times, and now the two families are considered close. .

"Thank you for nothing. When the filial piety period is over and the world becomes more orderly, I will come to talk to you again." What the patriarch's wife means is that it is not good now. When it is more convenient, she will come over to talk to Wang about a suitable family. .

"Hey." Wang smiled. When it comes to connections, the Li family's strongest connection is the patriarch's wife.

The two talked some more, and the patriarch's wife sat for a while before going back. After all, the late emperor has just passed away, and even though Li Xiandong only has his own family, it is not easy to sit there.

After the patriarch's wife passed by, Mrs. Wang opened the box. Wow, there was a complete set of silver face masks, including heart picks, sideburns, flower buds, hairpins, and earrings. This was silver.

"Why is it so expensive? I just accepted it." Wang originally thought it was nothing, but now she saw that this gift was really valuable in Pingshan Village.

"Mom, it's okay. Brother Xinhe is now a member of the imperial family. Moreover, maybe the patriarch and the others feel that they are returning the favor." Li Xiaohan explained.

The clan leader had always promised to give the thirty-seven dollars to Li Xiaohan, but Li Xiaohan would never accept it. Now both families feel they owe each other.

Forget it, it's okay, human relations are like this, I still feel that it's not clear, and then I slowly get closer.

"Okay." Since Li Xiaohan said to put it away, Mrs. Wang put it away, "Here it is for you."

"Mom, I'm busy on weekdays and rarely have time to take care of this. Please help me put it aside." Li Xiaohan said.

"How can this be like this? You are already a big girl, so you have to be confident." Mrs. Wang said, but think about it, her daughter has a lot of wealth, and she has never made any mistakes in her calculations. Come to think of it, I still haven't figured it out yet, and I don't like these things. I'll understand it naturally when I do, so I'm not in a hurry now, "Forget it, I'll ask your father to buy you another camphor wood box in the spring and put it in your room. Put it all inside, and you can keep the key when the time comes."

The dowries are all accumulated in boxes like this.

"Okay." Li Xiaohan replied. There is still room for a box in the room.

The two agreed and teased Li Xiaoshuang a few more times before they separated and were about to do other things.

Tuk-tuk-tuk.

The Li family's courtyard door was knocked again.

"Is Sister Wang here? Is Xiaohan here?"

=== Chapter === 155

After the patriarch's wife left, the Zhao family came, and after the Zhao family left, the Wu family came, and after the Wu family left... From the patriarch's wife, to the family of Li Guiqian and Li Guifei after the separation, to the families who learned to make wine. People , people who help make pepper on weekdays , people who go to school to study ...

Everyone seemed to have made an appointment, but since they couldn't gather together in a high-profile manner, they all carried a vegetable basket or something, dressed very plainly, came to sit for a while, gave a gift, and left.

It would not be a taboo to break a taboo like this, but it was very tiring. Wang and Li Xiaohan were frequently interrupted while working, and there was no stopping at all.

By the time the afternoon came, Li Xiaohan counted all the ladies who had made good friends with others in the village. They had all come, so there should be no problem.

Then Li Xiandong ran in and said, "Xiaohan, the leader of the Green Gang is here. Come out and say hello."

Why is he, a grown man, joining in the fun? Could it be that these quacks are here to help her celebrate her haircut? Li Xiaohan frowned slightly, and when he came out, he saw the leader of the Qing Gang, dressed in soap clothes, sitting in the front hall, with several bamboo baskets covered with linen beside him.

Because Old Uncle Zhong went back to Fucheng for business, Doctor Zhang only focused on studying Sanqi. When he saw that the Qing Gang people were too lazy to pay attention, he hid directly in his room. Therefore, in such a big hall, only the Qing Gang people were there.

Seeing Li Xiaohan come out, the leader of the Green Gang stood up and said, "Today, a vegetable farmer named Lao Liutou came to our shop and said that Miss Li, the garlic you ordered has arrived. We are afraid of delaying Li. Girl, I happened to have some free time, so I dropped by and sent it over."

It turns out that garlic has arrived. Li Xiaohan realized that, that is to say, the Qing Gang had never seen a woman before, so how could they be so thoughtful.

"Leader Ye, please take a seat." Li Xiaohan said quickly. Even in the cold weather, he even came here specifically for these garlics. Li Xiaohan accepted this favor.

The two chatted for a while, and then Gang Leader Qing brought news about the crazy price increase of garlic in Dingcheng. "I don't know why, but the government doubled the price to buy garlic. They just want it to be fast and not too expensive."

Although I don't know the reason for this, the way the leader of the Green Gang glanced at them didn't look like they didn't know anything, they were just testing each other. After all, after the Qing gang leader first joined Zhang Fu, his business expanded very quickly, and now he is one of the top big businessmen in Dingcheng.

Li Xiaohan did not respond directly. She still didn't know what Gang Leader Qing wanted. "Oh, so the deposit I left at the beginning was not enough. It seems that I have to make up the difference to Gang Leader Ye."

The leader of Qing Gang paused. It was obvious that Li Xiaohan did not accept the move. Also, the initiative was in Li Xiaohan's hands. "I heard that Miss Li can also make allicin. Now we don't want the price difference. It's just that brothers are wandering around. I have to think about them. If Miss Li's allicin is going to be released, how about we think about it first?"

"Sure." Li Xiaohan nodded, and then said, "We haven't studied allicin yet, and you don't have a doctor, so don't take it for any disease."

In the army, Doctor Zhang and the imperial doctors in Prince Ding's Mansion had studied it and decided together how much medicine to use for each symptom. They were most afraid of Gang Leader Ye and the others taking it indiscriminately.

"Can you eat dead people?"

"As long as you don't eat too much, it shouldn't be a problem." Li Xiaohan replied.

Broad-spectrum antibiotics, unless you are allergic or overdose, are hard to kill. Furthermore, an appropriate amount of allicin can not only kill human bacteria, but also activate cells, lower blood lipids and blood pressure, regulate the gastrointestinal tract, and improve immunity. It is suitable for people with low immunity or middle-aged and elderly people suffering from three types of high blood pressure.

In modern times, allicin is also commonly used in the raising of chickens, ducks, pigs, fish and other livestock. It can effectively sterilize, prevent and cure diseases. It can also promote appetite, accelerate growth and make the meat more delicious. It is a favorite of the majority of livestock farmers. good helper.

Generally speaking, allicin is a safe, pollution-free, and side-effect-free food additive suitable for humans and animals, which is good news for mankind.

Hey, if you think about it this way, it seems that you can open a certain window.

Leader Ye Gang saw that Li Xiaohan seemed to be slightly distracted, thought for a moment, and took this opportunity to say, "In that case, give us the exclusive rights to the Qing Gang?"

He didn't believe that what the government desperately purchased would be inferior. Although he doesn't quite understand how to use it now, he should take the opportunity to stock up on a batch of goods, so that he can do exclusive business.

"That won't work. I promised Renhetang that I would supply them." Li Xiaohan came back to his senses and said. The secret recipe was sent directly to the military doctor's office. Renhetang didn't know the secret recipe, but it didn't matter. They had Dr. Zhang to get the finished medicine directly.

Therefore, Li Xiaohan's allicin has not yet been produced, and the supply is already in short supply.

"Then it's just our two families?" Gang Leader Qing said. Renhetang cannot be killed, and Renhetang is good. If the doctor of Renhetang understands, the sales will be better. In this case, the interests of both families must be guaranteed, and other people should not get involved. .

"Let's do this for this batch of goods before the year, and we'll talk about it then." Li Xiaohan did not agree immediately.

How long will it take to celebrate the New Year? The leader of the Green Gang was speechless.

However, looking at Li Xiaohan's expression, it didn't look like he could agree easily. Back then, he did not increase the production of pepper wine despite his many persuasion. Now that he is used to it, he doesn't expect to be able to persuade Li Xiaohan.

However, as the first person to cooperate, Li Xiaohan did not leave him behind when eating meat.

Thinking of this, the leader of the Qing Gang said, "In that case, when the goods are shipped, Miss Li will ask someone to tell us, and we will come over to pull the goods ourselves. Now that it is cold and the days are short, we can I'll take my leave now."

"Okay. I'll let you know when the time comes." Li Xiaohan responded, stood up and saw off Gang Leader Qing.

Everyone in the Qing Gang didn't go back empty-handed. Anyway, the Li family and Li Hehua's chili sauce was half empty again. Fortunately, there is no shortage of hot peppers in Pingshan Village now.

After the Qinggang people left, Li Xiandong and Wang helped put the garlic away.

"Hey, why is this basket so light?" Li Xiandong asked doubtfully.

"Open it and take a look." Li Xiaohan didn't know either, but it was sent by Gang Leader Qing, so it's probably not a bad thing.

"It's fur, a lot of fur." Li Xiandong shouted in a low voice, "This fur is smooth and smooth, so beautiful."

Li Xiaohan opened it and took a look. It turned out to be a basket of processed furs. Each piece of fur was smooth and unusual. When I turned to the end, there was a letter underneath. When I pulled it out, there were only a few big words, "Congratulations to Miss Li."

It was the first time I saw someone giving gifts like this. Now he has run away. There is no need to keep a low profile like this.

"Forget it, Dad, let's carry it to the backyard and put it away first." Li Xiaohan said.

"Why."

After receiving the congratulatory gifts from the Qing Gang, Li Xiaohan thought that he could finally have some peace and quiet for a while.

Unexpectedly, after a while, there was a noise outside the door, mixed with calls of surprise and faint crying, including the voices of men and women.

"What's going on outside? What happened?" Mrs. Wang came out with Li Xiaoshuang in her arms. Li Xiaoshuang was taking a nap when she suddenly woke up with a fright.

Li Xiaohan also put down the things in his hands and replied, "I don't know, Mom, dad and I went out to take a look. You and Xiaoshuang are at home, and the door is closed tightly."

Although it shouldn't be a bad thing, Li Xiaohan was still going to follow Li Xiandong out for a look just in case.

"Well, be careful." Ms. Wang hugged Li Xiaoshuang and warned her.

The two father and daughter came out of the door together, and someone rushed past outside the door, heading towards the village.

Li Xiaohan followed Li Xiandong, and there were more and more people in front of him.

"What's going on?" someone in the crowd asked.

"The corvee people are back? The official is looking for the clan leader to do something." said the person who came early.

Li Xiaohan came closer and listened quietly, and sure enough he saw what the officer in front was exchanging with the clan leader.

Patriarch Li had sharp eyes and saw Li Xiaohan. He quickly waved and said, "Xiaohan is here, come on, come on, come here quickly."

Li Xiaohan suddenly became the center of attention. He had no choice but to force himself to smile and walk over. The surrounding Li family members quickly gave way to her.

As I got closer, I saw the official officer wearing a soap-colored official uniform with a piece of linen tied around his waist. It was obvious that he was observing etiquette during the period of national filial piety.

But fortunately, Li Xiaohan was not rude. He was wearing plain clothes, with only a plain wooden hairpin on his head and a linen cloth around his waist, which was even simpler.

"Master Guancha, this is Li Xiaohan, Master Li." The clan leader introduced.

"Sir Li." The officer clasped his fists, "Sir, by order of the superior officer, the men of the Li family have been recalled from the place of service and returned to your service to replace the corvee military service. The subordinates have handed over to the head of Pingshan Village. That's it. In the next three years, their service content will be subject to your instructions. If you have any questions, you can go to the government office to find us."

"Okay, I understand. Thank you, sir." Li Xiaohan quickly turned around with his fists clasped.

The officials naturally knew that Li Xiaohan would not have any problems. Now this person was a celebrity in the Ministry of War. It was because of her that the people in Pingshan Village were exempted from corvee military service - although the order they received was that they should obey Li Xiaohan's orders. It replaces three years of corvee military service, but who doesn't know that this almost means exemption. You know, at this time, especially the next military service, it is like putting your head on your belt and dividing your points. Zhong lost his life, and now he is just digging holes and planting trees. Not to mention the envy of others, they, the petty officials, are also envious. When a capable person appears in the family, it is like a chicken or a dog ascending to heaven.

Thinking of this, he gave up the airs and benefits that officials usually put on and worked hard. He turned to the Li family and said, "You, the Li family, are doing well now. Other services The corvées are still building the city wall and transporting grain and grass in the cold weather, while our other brothers have to go to various places to recruit people for military service."

After all, it was Li Xiaohan's first time as an official. Although he was an official, he looked very low-key. He was afraid that the Li family might not realize that it was delaying Li Xiaohan's affairs, so he threatened and said, "Therefore, it is even more important to do a good job." I'm doing something for Mr. Li, but if things don't work out, my brothers won't want to come back and take you away."

"Yes, yes, we all understand." Everyone nodded. These official servants who were in charge of corvee and taxation were usually people that ordinary people did not dare to offend. How could they explain it so nicely?

When the officials saw that they had done something to help Li Xiaohan establish his authority, they had done this to this ugly man. They expected that Mr. Li would be able to receive their goodwill, so they clasped their fists and said goodbye, "Mr. Li, what's going on? The business has been completed, and now I am busy with official duties, so I will take my leave soon."

Li Xiaohan quickly clasped his fists in return, "Thank you, adults. Why don't you come over and drink a cup of hot tea."

"No, no, we have to go back to Fucheng to report. It's getting dark early, so it's better to get on the road early." The official declined. This was not a polite word. These days, everyone is extremely busy.

"In that case, I won't keep you any longer. It's cold and the roads are slippery, so please be careful." Li Xiaohan said.

Patriarch Li stepped forward at this time and quietly handed over a money bag. The official waved his hand and refused, "Master Li, my subordinates have taken their leave."

After saying that, he turned around and mounted his horse, leading the wind and snow all the way, and left Pingshan Village.

Seeing the official leave, everyone gradually came back to their senses. All of a sudden, all the questions burst out.

"Xiaohan became an official? What kind of official did he become?"

"What do these official duties mean? We won't have to serve in the next three years?"

"The official said that we should be sent by Xiaohan to serve instead. Xiaohan, what do you want us to do?"

Someone else found their relatives, "Master, how are you? Why are you back at this time? Didn't you send a message earlier saying that you won't be back for a while?"

"We don't know either. Others are still building the city wall."

All of a sudden, it was a mess.

"Okay, don't make any noise. Listen to me." At the critical moment, you still have to listen to the clan leader.

"Because of the meritorious service of Xianfang, Xiaohan is now the master of the Ministry of War, and you are exempted from the corvee military service. From now on, everyone's task is to follow Xiaohan's instructions and vigorously plant medicinal materials."

"Xiaohan, can you say a few words?" The clan leader looked over.

"Yes, I need everyone's help to grow medicinal materials in the mountains. These are medicinal materials dedicated to the army." Li Xiaohan said with a straight face.

"Okay." I don't know who took the lead to say it, and then everyone said in unison, "I will follow your instructions, Xiaohan."

Serving abroad is really hard, and this year's mission is not easy at all. A few days ago, Liaodong fell and the late emperor passed away. They really can't have a moment of peace outside. I am worried that I will be taken away at the next moment, and I am also worried that my family will not know what is going on.

Now that I'm better, I can be at home, with my family, and I'm willing to do anything.

Li Xiaohan glanced at the crowd. At this moment, everyone's convinced gazes made her feel a little drunk, and then she said, "This matter is not urgent in a day or two. My uncles have just come back, so go home and rest first. Specific details I will make arrangements with the clan leader and we will talk about it then."

"Go home first, go home first." The clan leader also waved his hand.

Li Xiaohan and the clan leader both said so, and naturally everyone had no objection. The crowd gradually dispersed and went home.

Needless to say, it was Zhang Fu's work that sent these people back early.

Li Xiaohan was slightly lost in thought for a moment.

At this time, on the way from Dingcheng to Liaodong, the army began to set up camp.

The cold wind was howling, getting colder as we went north. Zhang Fu sat in the tent, stopped writing, and was slightly lost in thought.

The whistling sound outside is like a mournful song, making people unconsciously fall into separation.

I don't know if my gift will be delivered to the person I want to give it to on time?

=== Chapter === 156

"What's going on? What's going on?" Seeing Li Xiaohan and Li Xiandong return home with calm expressions, Wang felt relieved and asked doubtfully.

"It's the people who were doing corvee work who came back early." Li Xiandong explained.

"That's good, that's good. It's good to come back safely." Wang's tone relaxed, with a smile on her face.

Yes, it's good to come back safely.

Li Xiaohan's heart shrank slightly, but his expression was calm, but he turned to Doctor Zhang and said, "Doctor Zhang, how is your research on the medicine going? Is it possible to make the powder and send it to the army?"

"I'm 80% sure that it can be done." Dr. Zhang said, "However, it's not my decision to decide whether the Military Medical Office can use this method for sure. It still depends on They. Wait for the results that Lao Zhong brings back."

Li Xiaohan frowned slightly again, "We still have to wait."

"Actually, it's because this batch of medicine is very precious. If this medicine powder gradually loses its effectiveness, you must use it before the medicine loses effectiveness. If you need to use it later and there is no medicine, that's not good. Therefore, no one dares to make a decision easily, and it is estimated that it will have to be sent to the prince's case." Dr. Zhang explained.

In fact, there are still too few. Even if there are hundreds of Panax notoginseng plants, it will be a drop in the bucket if they are allocated to such a large battlefield. Then you have to use it sparingly.

Li Xiaohan was silent for a moment, "Forget it, let's start digging tomorrow. First dig out my 30%, except for the ones I want to keep for seeds."

"Ah, you don't want to keep it anymore?" Doctor Zhang asked.

"Didn't I say that I kept the breeding ones? As for the others, it depends on whether the military supply side wants them. If they want them, they will be put on the account first. If they don't, they will be sold to others."

"Then they will definitely want it." Doctor Zhang affirmed.

"I'm going to find the clan leader to arrange the manpower to dig out the medicine tomorrow." Li Xiaohan turned around and walked out again.

"Then I'll study the prescription." Doctor Zhang said, turning back to his own room.

Of course, a prescription cannot only contain Panax notoginseng, there must be other ingredients. It just needs to be able to achieve the maximum hemostatic effect, and it also needs to be suitable for grinding other medicines into powder, and it must be suitable for most people. This will test the doctor's level of medication.

Only Wang and Li Xiandong were left, looking at each other speechlessly.

"I'm going to prepare dinner." Wang finally said.

"I'll go clean the stone mill at home." Li Xiandong said. It sounds like if you want to grind it into powder, you must use a stone grinder. It also takes time to wash it and dry it thoroughly.

Here, Li Xiaohan braved the cold weather and arrived at the patriarch's house. There were still people in the patriarch's house.

But before Li Xiaohan recognized the person, the person had already stood up and said hello, "Xiaohan is here."

Li Xiaohan thought about it carefully, and then he realized that the unshaven man with tired face and dirty clothes in front of him was Li Shitou, the leader of the service in Pingshan Village this time.

"Uncle Shitou." According to seniority, Li Xiaohan should call him uncle.

"Hey, hey." Li Shitou looked only a little younger than Li Xiandong, but he seemed very embarrassed when Li Xiaohan called him uncle. He was even embarrassed to sit down first, so he greeted him, "Sit down. Sit down."

Li Xiaohan wondered in his heart, could it be that his official authority was so important that the elders in the clan gave him honorific titles?

"Xiaohan, please sit down." Patriarch Li calmed down and let Li Xiaohan sit down first, "I'm about to talk to Shitou about the military service. You should also listen together."

When it came to serving, Li Xiaohan sat down first. After seeing Li Xiaohan sit down, Li Shitou sat down and then slowly spoke.

"This year's corvee is not easy at all. We are building the city wall. Perhaps because of the constant fighting, the task is very heavy and the officials in charge are very strict. We are all good, maybe The reason why I said hello is that I heard that officials in other places will have to work day and night if they can't complete their tasks."

Being chosen as the leader of the corvee, Li Shitou is at least the best among the Li family in terms of physical fitness and mental ability. However, at this moment, when talking about the past, Li Shitou's voice carries residual of fear and patience.

After a while, Li Shitou continued, "The weather this year is still very cold. It's cold and tiring. Many people have fallen ill. Fortunately, we all brought white wax oil, oh no, tiger balm. As soon as there are signs of headache and fever, we apply it quickly. It is very effective and it has not turned into a serious disease. However, we are the only ones who have this medicine, and many people come to ask for it, but we can't do anything. , after giving it a few times, I couldn't give it to everyone, so I simply applied it on it instead of eating it, but I couldn't hide it for long. Fortunately, Xiaohan later taught you how to make Tiger Balm, and many people brought medicine from home, and we were able to survive. . Nowadays, everyone has changed the name of this medicine to white wax oil."

Li Xiaohan only knew about this past event, and looking at Li Shitou's appearance, he could only be glad that he had given away the recipe for Tiger Balm.

In this world, there is not only Li Shitou in front of you, but also more Li Shitou. Not just one person, but more people. He is the father, child, and husband of more people.

One is one who can save one, and one is one who can help one. Maybe this is the meaning of her tiny candlelight coming to this time and space and the price she should pay.

"Uncle Shitou, please continue."

Li Shitou added, "When we came back, other people were still building the city wall. There were also some teams who had been transferred to who knows where earlier. In fact, we had quietly After inquiring about the information, even the officials who are closest to us refused to say how long we will serve and where those people have gone."

Speaking of this, Li Shitou said with a hint of alarm, "Clan leader, I think, I think those people who were transferred were directly taken to serve in the military."

Military service, even for civilians, is a nightmare for all civilians.

Chief Li sighed, "You came back late and the information was not well-informed. Liaodong fell, and the late emperor left a will for King Ding before his death, asking him to defend Longmen. It is estimated that these important figures were more or less prepared before, so your... The task is so heavy, those people who were transferred were probably recruited as civilian husbands."

"I estimate that if you stay here any longer, after you finish building the city wall, you will be a civilian husband. There is no way you will come back to recruit troops."

Li Shitou's eyes showed fear.

"However," Patriarch Li made a twist, "Now our Li family has nothing to worry about at least for the past three years. We are exempt from corvee military service for three years. The person who proposed this condition is our Li family. The great benefactor of this clan."

Patriarch Li was referring to Li Xiaohan, but Li Xiaohan was slightly distracted and thought of Zhang Fu, who didn't know where he was now.

"So, Xiaohan, why did you come to me? If you need anything, you can tell me." Patriarch Li said firmly.

Li Shitou on the side nodded his head in agreement, wishing he could roll up his sleeves and wear it.

"The most important thing will be in the coming spring, when we have to cut down trees and dig holes." Li Xiaohan said, "I came here today to ask the clan leader to make a list. How many people do I need to accompany me these days? Go up the mountain and dig some medicinal materials."

"How many?"

"I want a dozen or so first. Dig some first." Li Xiaohan made some guesses and dug a batch of a hundred or so trees first. Even if they have to be cleaned, baked and grinded later, it should be enough. If not, they can slowly add more people.

"Sure, let's pick those ten or so people who are bold, careful, and talkative first." Patriarch Li nodded. There are Sanqi all over the mountain, so they can't be exposed easily.

"Clan leader, patriarch, me, me." Li Shitou said quickly next to him.

Patriarch Li glanced at Li Shitou. Li Shitou could be brave, careful or tight-lipped, but he said, "You have such a strong body, go home first and let your mother-in-law raise you. Don't worry, you will be in the next batch."

"Patriarch, what can be tiring about working at home? Don't delay my mother-in-law's support of me. Patriarch, Xiaohan, let me go."

Patriarch Li glanced at Li Xiaohan, who nodded slightly. At present, when choosing people, it is natural that the closer they are to him, the better. Li Shitou looks very grateful to him. This job is still meticulous and not tiring.

"Sure, come on, I'll count you in."

"Hey!" Li Shitou responded loudly, his dirty and wrinkled face broke into a smile.

=== Chapter === 157

Early the next morning, ten people who had been discussed by Chief Li and Li Xiaohan came to Li Xiandong's house wearing cotton-padded clothes and carrying baskets on their backs.

Originally, we wanted to have more people, but the clan leader believed that if we were just digging medicinal materials and cooking, we wouldn't need so many people. The most important thing is that the fewer people there are, the less risk of leakage, and it is easier to keep things confidential.

Doctor Zhang also agreed. Although it was Li Xiaohan's share this time, the medicine could be made in batches without having to dig back all the Panax notoginseng at once. Planting in the mountains and digging as needed is the best way.

Therefore, the number of people going up the mountain was first reduced to ten people.

As for the Li family, Li Xiandong, Li Xiaohan and Doctor Zhang are all preparing to go up the mountain together. Old Uncle Zhong hasn't come back yet, but Dr. Zhang must go up the mountain. According to Dr. Zhang's original words, "I am here to study medicinal materials. How can I not go up the mountain? I can persist, even if I can't, there are so many of you. I can just find someone to support me."

"Besides, I see that the mountains behind you are quite smart. The temperature, soil, etc. are all suitable for the growth of medicinal materials. If there are any medicinal materials that you can't recognize, I will help you find them. You can give it a try. Maybe it's another 37."

The patriarch was heartbroken.

So, just like that, Doctor Zhang followed everyone up the mountain.

In mid-to-late December, it is almost the coldest time of the year. There is a sheet of snow in the back mountain. The ten members of the Li family stepped on the cold snow, but they only felt hot inside. Before coming, the clan leader It has been explained to them that their clan's exemption from corvee and military service is all due to the medicinal materials. Li Xiaohan was also rewarded with a thousand acres of mountain land. Their corvee in the coming year will be to help grow medicinal materials in these mountains.

Unexpectedly, right under their noses, on the mountains of their clan, a patch of Panax notoginseng was planted.

Why didn't I notice it at all in the past? Everyone just felt that they were blind.

If the clan leader hadn't warned him to watch more, listen more and talk less, they would have been discussing it now.

Just like this, all the way up the mountain, everyone's eyes were shining, like mice looking for food, and a weed on the roadside looked like Panax notoginseng.

Finally arriving at the mountainous area allocated to Li Xiandong by the tribe, Li Xiandong took a closer look and walked to a bush weighed down by snow, "There is one here."

Suddenly, everyone gathered around Li Xiandong, even clan leader Li was no exception. On the contrary, Li Xiaohan moved slowly, and for a moment, Li Xiaohan was no longer around Li Xiandong.

"Squeeze, squeeze, make room for Xiaohan." Everyone sneered and made room for Li Xiaohan.

Li Xiaohan smiled and squeezed in.

I saw Li Xiandong pushing away the snow on it with his hands, and a Panax notoginseng plant was exposed.

"Ah, isn't this fake ginseng?" A sharp-eyed man shouted.

"The leaves of Panax notoginseng are somewhat similar to fake ginseng, but if you look carefully, you can see that they are still different and have very different values." Dr. Zhang explained.

"Yes, I went to Renhetang and asked about it. Fake ginseng is not valuable." Although Li Xiandong is not good at speaking, his words hit the heart of the tribe.

Sure enough, the excited expressions of the clan members just now turned into disappointment.

"Think about it. If these three or seven are everywhere, then it will be your turn. Just because they look alike doesn't mean they are the same." Patriarch Li said, "Remember it well and learn it well. In the future we will I still have to plant it."

"Yes, clan leader." The Li clan members responded repeatedly, and then secretly glanced at Li Xiaohan.

Sure enough, Xiaohan was taught by his ancestors and was different from them. As for why the ancestors encouraged Li Xiaohan but not them, hey, they were all different. Xiaohan's was made of white porcelain, while theirs was made of rough pottery. Their ancestors were not stupid.

Li Xiaohan was speechless. He knelt down and explained to everyone the difference between Panax notoginseng and Panax angustifolia. For a moment, everyone nodded.

After talking about the main characteristics of Panax notoginseng, Li Xiandong carefully dug out the Panax notoginseng.

"It's really good. This kind of stuff is really good." Doctor Zhang looked at the Panax notoginseng stems, looking left and right, with admiration on his face, "Miss Li, you are really good at growing medicinal materials. The appearance of this is very nice."

"It's all the ancestors who have blessed us. This mountainous area is suitable for us." Li Xiaohan said modestly. Speaking of it, it was really the right time, the right place, the right people, and everything.

After digging this one, everyone continued to look for the next one. It was almost half afternoon when the group finally finished picking Sanqi and went down the mountain.

After going down the mountain, this matter started. We had to wash the Panax notoginseng clean. The weather was not good, so we couldn't dry it naturally, so we had to slowly dry it manually.

"Doctor Zhang, how is your prescription?" Li Xiaohan asked.

Now that the medicine has been dug up, Dr. Zhang can only rely on him for the prescription. After all, although Li Xiaohan grows medicine, she does not make medicine. The recipe for tiger balm is available online, and everyone has heard about it more or less and tried it. However, the formula and process of Yunnan Baiyao were classified as national top secrets in the early days of the founding of the People's Republic of China and were kept secret forever. She could not possibly know.

"There is already a well-established prescription. I asked Lao Zhong to take it to the palace to show Dr. Ning to see if Dr. Ning has made any adjustments. If not, just use that prescription." Dr. Zhang's expression Serious and obviously not light-hearted either.

It is also very difficult to prescribe a new medicine. Doctor Zhang thinks he has good medical skills, but everyone's medication habits are different when it comes to medical skills, and there are also colleagues who look down upon each other, so there may be more rounds of debate.

But if Sanqi takes Li Xiaohan's share, then Dr. Zhang can decide it himself. Ask Dr. Ning what he meant. It was also because Dr. Ning was an imperial physician from the capital, and the two had gotten along well with Li Xinhe before.

"Uncle Zhong will be back in the next few days, right?"

"That's about it. I asked him to go out of the city to do a lot of things. He has to order the porcelain bottles for the medicine, go to the Prince's Mansion to find Dr. Ning, and transport the medicinal materials according to the prescription. I estimate that it will take two or three days at the fastest." Dr. Zhang said. .

Since it is Li Xiaohan's medicinal materials and the prescription used is Doctor Zhang's, for speed and stability, it is naturally most convenient to do it in Pingshan Village.

"Sure." Li Xiaohan nodded.

The Panax notoginseng thing has been settled, and the allicin thing is still busy. In the past few days, Li Hehua, Li Lanhua, Wang and others have been peeling their fingers so hard that it hurts. Even Li Xiaoshuang is afraid. As soon as Mrs. Wang peeled the garlic, Li Xiaoshuang shouted at the top of her voice, "Mom, it's smelly, no, no, no."

It's just that you have to peel the garlic. So how should it be fixed? Li Xiaohan is looking for a way.

At first, Wang said a method, "Can you crush the garlic with a kitchen knife and then peel it? This is how we usually cook."

So everyone gave it a try.

"It's not very good. Garlic is easy to fly around, and it can't be used if it gets dirty on the floor. And the sizes are different. When drying, it's hard to control the heat. It's easy for the small ones to be burnt, and the big ones are not yet. There's something to do."

This method was rejected.

"Otherwise, try soaking it in water." Li Hehua said, "It will be easier to peel once it's soaked."

"It works, let's give it a try."

It is indeed easy to peel garlic after it has been soaked, but "I feel like the color of this garlic is a little wrong?"

"It's a little bit." Li Xiaohan took a closer look and found out that garlic is prone to oxidation or breeding of bacteria after being exposed to water. Although she used boiled cold boiled water, there was no way to completely avoid this. The problem is, after all, it takes time to process, and because it has been soaked in water, it is even more difficult to dry.

"Otherwise... since it needs to be dried, how about drying half of it first and then peeling it?" Li Lanhua said hesitantly. She is also a thoughtful girl, always thinking that she can help more to make up for her shortcomings.

"You can also give it a try."

Several people quickly cleaned the garlic, broke off the outer garlic cloak, and then dried it for a while. Sure enough, it was easier to peel off the garlic cloak later.

However, Li Xiaohan looked at the half-dried garlic, and an idea flashed, and he said, "Mom, I can use that bamboo bucket of yours."

Wang's bamboo bucket is a length of bamboo tube, polished and smooth. It is usually used to measure grains and so on, and it must be tidied up after use.

Li Xiaohan put the semi-dried but not yet peeled garlic particles into the bamboo bucket, then covered the mouth with one hand and shook it wildly up and down, left and right, the garlic particles collided violently inside, and were finally crushed. When it was poured out, most of the garlic clothing had fallen away.

"Oh, this is a good method." Everyone took a look and found that the shaken garlic particles only needed to be sorted manually, saving the boss's effort.

In this way, after several days of experiments and the combined efforts of everyone, the production speed of allicin has been increased by another level.

At this time, Old Uncle Zhong also came back with matching medicinal materials and tools.

The ratio of medicinal materials and processing procedures are very important, which affect the final efficacy of the medicine. Sometimes Li Xiaohan thought about it and realized that Dr. Zhang was really their nobleman.

"Yes, it needs to be roasted, slowly and carefully. Your pig's trotters with thick skin and thick meat, you tell me why you shouldn't scald them. Will you still be able to make it in time when you tell me to scald them? Just heat them a little bit. A little bit." Li Xiandong, who was in charge of baking the medicinal materials, was sweating. On this cold day, no matter how hot the kitchen stove was, it couldn't achieve this effect. He must be nervous.

Mrs. Wang next to her was lighting the fire with her head lowered, saying nothing about her husband's difficult situation. Doctor Zhang looked at her fire and frowned, but at last he nodded without finding any fault.

Li Xiaohan on the side turned a blind eye to his parents' look for help. At this time, if you are a dead Taoist friend and not a poor Taoist, please wish yourselves good luck.

Come on, her retribution will come soon, "Do you remember the heat just now?"

Remember, Li Xiaohan nodded crazily, holding a charcoal pen in his hand, "Use low heat for frying, preferably fine and slow." There is also a small mark on it from 18 to 50 degrees.

Then Dr. Zhang came to the grinder again, and said with another harsh words, "I asked you to be careful, but you are not so careful. Ah, there are so many medicinal materials, so you wouldn't have coarsely ground them on that stone mill first." After that, tinker with it again, and finally grind it into powder with a medicinal mill? Are you grinding it slowly like this to prepare for the Chinese New Year? "

"Yes, yes. Doctor Zhang." Li Shitou, who was in charge of grinding the medicinal materials, nodded and quickly changed the equipment, but he still didn't have enough space. He kept thinking that he would rather work slower and do it well, but Doctor Zhang said so. A meal.

Li Xiaohan followed behind and took a look at the medicinal materials. Well, there were indeed quite a lot of them.

They walked to another place, this time it was Li Guiqian. Doctor Zhang didn't say anything, he just stared at Li Guiqian carefully as he performed a tea kung fu. After staring at Li Guiqian so frightened that he almost couldn't move, Doctor Zhang said with coldness and threats, "Cao Wu is poisonous. If you want to live longer, you'd better remember the steps now and don't mess up any step. Don't eat or taste randomly. After you're done, wash your hands and change clothes."

"Yes." Li Guiqian looked serious and took a deep breath.

Li Xiaohan took a look and immediately wrote with charcoal, "Cao Wu is poisonous. Do not taste it. Wash your hands and change clothes after cooking."

When he was in a deserted place, Li Xiaohan quietly asked, "Doctor Zhang, if this grass is very poisonous, wouldn't it?"

"What do you know? The medicine is three-thirds poisonous." Dr. Zhang's expression calmed down. "The prepared Caowu Wu has almost no toxicity, but it has an extremely good analgesic effect. It is most commonly used in the military."

"What, are you afraid? Since ancient times, medicine has always been the same as medicine. If you take this path, you should understand that the most poisonous thing is the human heart. Medicine in people's hands can save people or kill people."

"Yes, Doctor Zhang, I understand." Li Xiaohan said with special respect, secretly deciding to respect Doctor Zhang even more.

However, Li Xiaohan still had the courage to ask, "Will my ex-uncle handle this medicinal material for a long time? Will there be any problems?"

"Maybe it will be a bit. Thirty or fifty years later, I guess it will be a bit. But there is no evidence. Since ancient times, people who have dealt with medicinal materials have lived to their seventies or eighties, and some have lived to their forties or fifties. I don't know if it is. I have been exposed to it since childhood, and I don't know which medicine it is. But thirty or fifty years from now, if I am still around, and if Li Guiqian is still around, I can help take a look."

That said, Li Guiqian is almost fifty this year, and Dr. Zhang seems to be over forty. Even if thirty years are added, Li Guiqian will be almost eighty, let alone fifty years from now. According to the average life expectancy in ancient times, it was likely that he died of natural old age.

However, this cannot be said like this. Li Xiaohan quietly flattered him and said, "Look at what you said, Doctor Zhang. I heard that doctors all live very long lives. I will definitely see you, Doctor Zhang." look."

"Well, that's not about living a long life, that's about growing old quickly." Unfortunately, Dr. Zhang didn't understand Qingqing. "Look at how well Dr. Ning has taken care of himself. In fact, he is not too old. He is just worried in the palace. You are getting old quickly, and I am afraid that the nobles will go crazy and ask if you can't cure it, so your whole family will be buried with you, so you are so scared that you ran to the prince's house."

Li Xiaohan was speechless for a moment. It's such a big piece of gossip. Can you tell me this?

However, since he talked about gossip, "Doctor Zhang, is this why you have been in Renhetang?" Li Xiaohan couldn't hold back his curiosity.

During this time, she also realized that Dr. Zhang's medical skills were very impressive. Take this prescription as an example. Dr. Ning, the imperial physician who came from the palace, did not change a word of Dr. Zhang's. prescription.

"Of course, I'm so smart, and I don't have a big family to support, so naturally I can do whatever I want." Dr. Zhang was very proud, "I guess I can live to be seventy or eighty."

"Of course." Li Xiaohan affirmed, "If you can change your habit of trying all kinds of medicinal materials, I estimate that you can live to be a hundred."

Li Xiaohan also did this for Doctor Zhang's benefit.

"Forget it, living such a long life is too boring." Doctor Zhang waved his hand.

Li Xiaohan was speechless once again.

On December 25, the first batch of Panax notoginseng powder and allicin arrived at Longmen Pass on an expedited basis.

"Master Zhang, the medicinal materials for Dingcheng have been delivered, and there is a letter."

"Bring it up." At this moment, Zhang Fu was a bit more cold and mature than Ding Cheng. He also wore layers of disguise that were invisible and intangible, and showed the majesty of a superior, which made people helpless. face.

The slightly trembling hands when cutting the letter with only scissors revealed a hint of inner urgency and truth.

=== Chapter === 158

Liaodong battlefield, sick camp.

There has been no major counterattack in recent days, and there have been constant skirmishes, so there are many people staggering around in the camp. Some people groan* uncontrollably, some people close their eyes and endure in silence, and some people can't help but talk to distract their minds. .

"Brother, which experimental team are you in? I am No. 2," said a big wounded soldier. There was a huge wound across his chest. The white gauze on it showed a little bit of blood, and his whole face was covered with blood. Bloodless, with trembling and panic in his tone.

"I am Number B, Number 13." The person who replied was a slightly smaller wounded soldier. He was also wounded in the chest, but he looked a little lighter than the big man.

"What medicine did the doctors give you? Did they use alcohol? I used alcohol, allicin, and the new styptic powder. I have never heard of these before. I wonder how effective the medicine is?" The big man listed them one by one, with worry in his tone.

"Why do you still have styptic powder? How do you feel?" The little man was shrewd, and he immediately heard the difference between the two.

"It was good. The blood was flowing loudly at that time. The doctor opened a bottle and gave it to me. The bleeding stopped quickly, and it didn't hurt as much after using it." Recalling the effect of the medicine, it was great. The boy said happily again.

It must be a very good medicine, otherwise the effect would not be so good. It's just that such a good medicine was used in some kind of experiment on people like them. There is an unbelievable feeling, but it seems to be the case.

The little man glanced at the big man's wounds and didn't envy the big man for being able to use an extra medicine, but he still said, "It's probably a good thing, you've earned it. I don't have any." That styptic powder."

"Hey hey, hey hey." The big man got the approval of the others, plus he saved a life and survived the disaster. Even though he was still very weak now, he still said happily.

Perhaps he was infected by the silly joy of the big man hehehehehe, and a swarthy man next to him who closed his eyes to relax interjected, "In our wounded barracks, the patients are divided into four categories: A, B, C and D. A is the most serious injury. Medication is required. Also the most; B is the little brother. In the original prescription for alcohol, a hint of allicin was added; I am C. My wound was on my neck. It was not particularly deep, but the blood flowed violently. , also used styptic powder, but not allicin; and the brothers with the most number, they used alcohol, but allicin and styptic powder were useless."

"I think this experiment is to test the effects of allicin and hemostatic powder."

I didn't expect that this swarthy man, who looked ordinary, could be so well-informed.

The little soldier quickly flattered, "Brother, which branch of the military are you from? You are so well-informed."

"I'm the scout."

Scout, no wonder, this unit just looks inconspicuous, but the information is first-class. The little man hurriedly came over and said, "Brother, I heard vaguely that we are all testing new drugs, then The doctor comes to check on me every day. Do you think there will be any problems with this medicine? This allicin sounds so strange, and it smells different from usual. The medicine is different. I'm still young, and I still want to go back and get a wife."

The swarthy man raised his eyes and glanced at him, mockingly saying, "What the hell are you thinking? With our worthless lives, how could we deliberately murder you? If you are selected to try a new drug, you will be the best. Sometimes, there are medicines and doctors watching over you. You are really young and don't know the pain of waiting to die without medicine or doctors."

The little man was told a lot, but he was not annoyed at all. Instead, he became happy, "Brother is right. My brain was confused and I couldn't understand it for a while. But that's not the truth."

These words made everyone around them happy, especially the three of them, A, B, and C. They felt that they were all the lucky ones who were favored. Unlike that D-word, they only had the alcohol. Although the alcohol was also very good, it was better than before. No. But, people always like to compare, and they are very happy if they don't have me.

D word: I don't care about it, I am the least injured.

When it was almost nightfall, the doctor came to see me again. He carefully asked whether the wound felt warm and checked whether there was any redness, swelling or bleeding before leaving.

A, B, and C slept together. In the middle of the night, the little guy B felt that there was a lot of noise around him. Moaning was common in the injury camp, but this time the sound seemed to be in his ears. Same.

Same as in the ear.

The little man was suddenly startled. When he woke up from his dream, he felt that the big scout named C next to him was as hot as a ball of fire.

"Doctor, doctor, someone here has a fever. Someone here has a fever." The little man's voice trembled.

Post-injury fever is one of the most fatal conditions after injury. Basically, if the fever cannot go away, you are waiting to die.

With alcohol, the situation was much better, but alcohol was also very cruel. The wound had to be cut open and re-sutured before taking medicine.

However, this big brother's wound is on his neck. How much more can be cut in the neck.

The little man's head was spinning fast and he had already thought of the worst case scenario.

Could it be that such a good person as Brother Scout has to die like this?

The shouting woke up the people around him, but no one made a sound, and there was silence. This kind of situation where a life has been saved on the battlefield, only to find that King Yama is coming to summon people again is really sad and sad.

The doctors came very quickly, and more than one doctor came. The bright white wax candlelight illuminated the surrounding area of the wounded soldier named C, and illuminated the eyes of the scout soldiers, which were full of red bloodshot eyes and longed for life.

"C No. 7, the wound is slightly red, slightly swollen, and no bleeding." A doctor opened the gauze on his neck, pressed it gently and said, then reached out to his nose and forehead, and finally checked the pulse of both hands, "Short breathing. , the breath is hot, and the pulse is rapid and rapid."

"Is he normal this evening?"

"Yes, it's normal in the evening. It starts to get worse quickly."

The faces of the other doctors became more solemn. The scout man was a smart man, and the light in his eyes gradually dissipated, but there were tears in his eyes, "Doctor, save me, I don't want to die yet. I The baby at home is less than two years old. Doctor, I don't want to die."

The last one sounded like crying.

It's just that the doctors are used to seeing life and death and don't have many emotional fluctuations. "The symptoms are very similar to the pulse cases reported by Dr. Zhang and Dr. Ning."

The other doctors checked the pulse one by one, and they all nodded in agreement, "Add allicin, use the maximum dose. Add antipyretic drugs as an additional aid."

Hearing that there was a similar pulse and that medicine could be used, the light in the man's eyes gradually gathered again. Soon, a pottery bowl filled with a small amount of smelly light yellow liquid was delivered to the big man's hand.

The big man drank it as if he were drinking some rare treasure medicine. He drank it carefully and carefully. What was left on the bottom of the bowl was washed with boiling water before drinking it. No medicine was wasted at all.

Perhaps the medicine had taken effect, perhaps there was hope in his heart. The swarthy man still felt hot, but not as uncomfortable. An hour later, I drank another bowl of dark fever-reducing medicine and felt better.

During the day, after taking the medicine again, several doctors came to see me again. This time, his expression was a little gentler than last night.

"Brother, what do you think?" After the doctors left, the little man number thirteen asked gently.

He understood clearly that this allicin was probably a good thing, but his injury was a little more serious before, so he used it first. Brother A's injury was more serious, so Brother A used Panax notoginseng and allicin. Brother C is lighter than him, so he doesn't use allicin and only uses styptic powder.

For a moment, I don't know who is luckier.

"Yes, how are you, Brother C?" No. 3 A also asked worriedly. He was not stupid, and he slowly understood.

Apparently, the big man named C number 7 also thought so. He looked at the two of them with complex eyes, and finally said softly, "I feel a lot better, and it's not that hot anymore."

"That's good, that's good." A and B said in unison, "The fever is gone, and most of my life is saved."

On the third day, C Zi No. 7's fever finally subsided, and the allicin gradually spread.

It was midnight again, "Doctor, doctor, come on, I have a fever, I have a fever. I am D-103, doctor, I don't want to die, give me allicin, give me Apply styptic powder. Doctor, please, I don't want to die."

"Doctor, I am too, my name is D number 105."

"Doctor, there's me, there's me."

There were actually three people together. I don't know if they were really having a fever or just panicking.

In the past, when there was no medicine, everyone just accepted their fate silently and quietly. Now that there is medicine, who doesn't want to live?

"Did you decide what to call it and what medicine to use?! Let's talk about it after seeing it." The doctor came very quickly, fearing to cause people to be upset, and his tone was very bad.

The three of them didn't dare scream anymore, but their eyes showed panic. Fortunately, the doctor still prescribed allicin after checking their pulse.

Just, "Doctor, is there only allicin? My wound was cut and then sutured, can't I use styptic powder?"

The doctor's tone was very bad, "You said it was called styptic powder. Your bleeding has stopped now, and you are not in a hurry. The medicine is not enough, so save life-saving powder for emergencies."

If the doctor said something about the injury, the three of them might not be convinced. Why, aren't their injuries serious? Don't they deserve their lives? !

But the doctor said that there was not enough medicine and that he should save life-saving medicine for emergencies. The three of them didn't have any objections.

The powder looks convenient and easy to use, so it should be left on the battlefield to save lives.

Fortunately, allicin is also very useful. The three people discovered it in time. Within two days, the fever subsided.

However, this allicin styptic powder has completely spread. In the wounded barracks, everyone's greeting for a while is not whether you have taken it, but what is your name and have you used it.

"I'm born with the prefix B, and I used allicin. What's your prefix?"

"I am a person with the first name." The person who reported the first name was so hurt that he almost died. His face was pale, but there was a vague sense of pride on his face.

"That's great. I've used it all, so I don't have to worry anymore."

"It's not as good as you. I'm still injured too badly. Like you, the word B is the best. The injury is neither light nor serious. Allicin is also used."

"No, no." The B-shaped person couldn't help but smile on his face, "If you ask me, D-shaped is better, the injury is minor, but we are still seriously injured, so it's not a good thing. Hey, brother next to you, what's your name?"

"I'm T-shaped." The brother next to him didn't feel too happy about the minor injuries. Those lying in the wounded barracks had limited injuries no matter how minor they were. Those who were truly seriously injured were all driven back to their own camps.

"It's okay, brother, if you have a fever, the doctor will still give you allicin." A and B comforted each other, "But you can't count on the styptic powder, that thing has to be used for emergencies. Hey, I heard from Brother C that after using that thing, it didn't hurt that much, I don't know if that's true."

"It doesn't hurt that much, but we're seriously injured and we're always worried about getting a fever." A brother next to him said, and he knew it was the word "C" as soon as he heard it.

"It's okay. If you have a fever, I will give you allicin and antipyretics." The three of them answered in unison.

"There are risks, too. Two days ago, Brother C was injured so badly that he couldn't hold on even after being put on allicin." Brother C said in a low tone.

"Hey, there are other words too." The three of them comforted, "This is life."

After a while, a faint voice asked, "Can't you use this allicin in advance? If you use it in advance, you can prevent fever. People who are afraid of fever should take medicine in advance. We don't wait until we have fever to use it." ah."

"Can't this allicin be used in advance?!"

Someone in King Ding's camp also asked loudly.

=== Chapter === 159

"This Panax notoginseng styptic powder says that Panax notoginseng is not enough and it must be used in emergency situations. We understand that. But what about allicin? Isn't it made from garlic? Why is there not enough garlic? It cannot be used in advance. Use it to prevent fever."

The speaker's face was red with shouts, and he looked very loyal, but he glanced at Zhang Fu from time to time, clearly implying that Zhang Fu was not fulfilling his responsibilities.

Zhang Fu didn't even move his eyebrows, he just stared ahead, expressing the highest contempt with silence.

His data and documents have been submitted to the prince. The prince hasn't spoken yet, so don't pay attention to the barking below.

In front of him, King Ding stroked his head and frowned as he looked carefully at the document presented by Zhang Fu. The document was written in a very novel way. Above it was a box listing the data. There were four rows and three columns in total, divided into four rows: A, B, C and D. , three columns respectively write the situation before taking the medicine, write the situation after taking the medicine, and finally write the situation after taking the medicine.

He glanced over and explained the situation clearly and clearly. King Ding only looked at these briefly and had a preliminary understanding of the effect of the medicine.

The next step is a summary, which explains the number of people selected for the experiment, the total amount of medicine used, the proportion of the final experimental results, and a conclusion. All conclusions are supported by the previous data and are very reliable.

King Ding scrolled down to see the production situation of allicin and Panax notoginseng hemostatic powder. How much medicine can be provided in the future and how many injuries can be supported.

With this data, even King Ding couldn't help but take a deep breath - post-war casualties have always been a headache for generals. The death of an old soldier from injury will cost at least three new soldiers. Achieve veteran proficiency.

Besides, the people recruited here are all the people of the Wei Dynasty, whether they are new soldiers or veterans, their lives are still there. Being able to snatch people back from the hands of the King of Hell on the battlefield is of great significance.

Flipping through it again, there is no more, just two pages, not a word of nonsense, but all the problems have been explained clearly.

Zhang Zhen, a big boss, gave birth to a son who was a capable official, which is really enviable.

However, the format of this document is so novel, yet practical, and has no nonsense at all. Why has Chengan never used it before?

It seems that I heard something from it before, and it came from Miss Li? Let Chengan stay and ask questions later.

"Let's all take a look." King Ding handed the document down with his hand, and General Zhang Zhen in front quickly took it.

At this time, in this environment, there is no need to pay attention to any formal etiquette. General Chen, General Ma, Lord Zhao, Lord Qian, etc. all put their heads around to watch.

The writing is very well written, no matter how old a person is, it can be understood clearly. After reading it, it only made the roaring person in front of the class look like a joke.

People who don't work only need to have a mouth, but people who work have to think about every minute and every inch, which is never easy.

"Do you have any questions? Do you have any suggestions?" King Ding watched the document being passed around, and then he said calmly.

The people below shook their heads, except for the person who just roared, whose face was red with embarrassment, as if someone had slapped him twice. .

"My subordinates have no objection." Everyone replied one after another.

"In that case, let's go with Chengan's idea." King Ding rubbed his brows and made a conclusion.

"You don't have any objections, I do. When it comes to matters from now on, just submit them as Cheng'an's documents. Don't talk so much nonsense about praising virtues, which makes me upset and wastes time."

"It's the prince." Everyone below responded. After so many years of service, everyone knows the prince's temperament. This document is really to the prince's liking.

"Your Majesty, this document was not created by me, but I learned it from Miss Li."

"Oh, tell me about you. You all claim to be familiar with poetry and books, but none of you can write what I like." King Ding was very troubled. "I rewarded Miss Li with her pattern... and gave her a yellow and green ribbon." A set of red three-color floral woven clothes."

I wanted to blurt out how many taels of silver the tattoo had, but suddenly I thought I had no money, so I quickly gave him a set of clothes instead. There are still some in the clothing storehouse, but not much in the silver storehouse.

King Ding felt that he was so poor, but the officials receiving salaries below him were so useless that they couldn't even write a document, so his troubles turned into a lot of anger.

It doesn't matter who the generals are, they are not familiar with poetry and books.

The civil servants were a little embarrassed, forget it, this is not within the scope of their poems and books. Besides, Zhang Fu should be the most ashamed. He was obviously being praised just now. Well, he didn't come up with it. He was slapped in the face. Bar. Young people are still not mature enough.

Zhang Fu?

Zhang Fu's expression remained unchanged, as if he didn't notice anything at all. No, he curled his lips slightly, Zhang Zhen couldn't even tell if he wasn't as familiar as his biological father.

This son has no eyes to see.

"Okay, the Chinese New Year is tomorrow. All the New Year's items in the camp are ready. It's a Chinese New Year, so I have to give everyone a good and filling meal."

"Yes, Your Majesty is ready."

Finally it was their turn to perform.

Yes, it's the Chinese New Year again. This year of Taihe's 25th year has been very thin.

All because it is still during the period of national mourning. As the old saying goes, when the emperor collapses, the country's unlucky rituals include banning entertainment for a hundred days, massacres for forty-nine days, and marriages for a month.

Even though the late emperor had left a decree saying that there was no need to observe filial piety for him, it seems that everyone agreed by default that unless the war cannot stop and must be processed urgently, everything else is still treated as a national mourning.

After all, whether it is the prince, the former grandson, the current emperor, yes, the new emperor has ascended the throne, everyone hopes to have a reputation of filial piety.

However, in fact, no one near Dingcheng wanted to celebrate the festival. The people who served in the corvee returned before the New Year, but some of them were taken away by the military service. Those who were taken away were all the main force and future of the family, which made people think about celebrating the festival.

Food prices are still high. Even though everyone has counted the food stored at home, they still dare not open their stomachs to eat, let alone eat meat.

There were also the refugees near Liaodong City who were forced to leave their homes due to the war and came to the vicinity of Dingcheng. These people are ragged and hungry in the cold winter months. Those who are rich can go to a city inn to sleep in a big bunk bed, while those who have no money can only suffer in the corner. Although the government has begun to resettle these refugees, and there are also wealthy households in the city who have set up tents to provide porridge, it is just a matter of living one day at a time.

Furthermore, Dingcheng is too close to the battlefield after all. If Longmen Pass cannot be defended, the next Dingcheng will be Liaodong City. These people, some of whom are wealthy, only plan to rest in Dingcheng and continue. Go to the capital. They did not hide their intentions. Some of them had relatives and friends in the city and even persuaded them to leave early.

The battlefield seems to come to everyone unconsciously. These people in a trance are our future selves. But, who can be willing to abandon their home and run towards the unknown road? Maybe, without going to the capital, he no longer knows where he died in the wilderness, and there is not even a place to bury his body.

Therefore, this year, everyone is not living a stable life. Even in Pingshan Village, where no one is serving in the military, there is no joy or laughter.

However, on the last day of the new year, something happened that distracted everyone in Pingshan Village.

In the ancestral hall of the Li clan in Pingshan Village, Li Xiaohan was standing next to Li Xiandong, wearing plain clothes. During the national mourning period, everyone was dressed plainly. Li Xiaohan was also tall. Standing next to Li Xiandong, he was half a head taller than some shorter tribesmen.

At first glance, there doesn't seem to be anything special.

However, everyone couldn't help but look at Li Xiaohan. She was standing in the wrong position. She was standing in the male position.

The women below seemed a little quieter than in previous years, with their heads and necks lowered and their expressions submissive, as if they were very obedient to the clan's decision and had no objections.

However, if you look closely, for some of them, their spines seem to be a little straighter, and their occasional glances ahead become even more intense.

There was no calm around Li Xiaohan. After she stood here, some people quickly left her side, and some people stood closer to her.

Li Xiaohan behaved very calmly, as if everything was under her control. Whether it was respectful appreciation or alienation and disgust, she had the ability to accept it.

However, silently, Li Xiaohan remembered the names of those who had walked away, and even more so, the names of the people standing next to her at this moment. Uncle Shitou, your first uncle, your second uncle...

In front of the crowd, because of the national mourning, there were no pigs, sheep, chickens or other animals on the offering table. Instead, there were tofu, noodles, fruits and various vegetarian foods. Patriarch Li believed that his ancestors would not blame him for the simple sacrifices, but Patriarch Li really didn't He knew whether the ancestors would blame him for what happened next.

However, no matter how hesitant or uneasy he was, Patriarch Li still took out a yellowed book and began to lower his head and recite the memorial words: "South of the Weishui River, Li Manjing, the thirty-first generation of the Li family, led all the clan members."

No one noticed this small detail. Patriarch Li's memorial speech changed from "lead all the men" to "lead all the clansmen" in previous years. Therefore, everyone listened quietly, and there was nothing unusual.

Or maybe, what he noticed was that he had no objection - the corners of Li Xinhe's eyes jumped slightly, and then he returned to calmness.

"Li Fushan, Li Fushui, Li Xueyi... Li Xiandong, Li Xiaohan... I respectfully invite all ancestors to return to their thrones."

Li Xiaohan, is the name after Li Xiandong Li Xiaohan?

Everyone almost suspected that they had heard wrongly. Isn't this a genealogy? Isn't this a genealogy that only records the names of men? Why is Li Xiaohan's name here?

Isn't this really disrespectful to our ancestors?

Everyone's eyes turned to Li Xiaohan. Li Xiaohan looked firm and unmoved. Then they looked at Patriarch Li. Patriarch Li lowered his head to read the genealogy with a serious look. It didn't look like he had read it wrongly. After reading, the patriarch looked up. Looking at the ancestral tablets, there was nothing unusual. In the end, everyone could only look at the ancestral tablets.

Ancestors.

The patriarch's voice sounded again, "Kowtow..."

The people in the front row instinctively began to kowtow, and the people in the back instinctively followed suit, with Li Xiaohan's saluting figure blending in.

"rise."

Everyone is staring at the tablets of their ancestors. If the ancestors have spirits, they should be reminded at this moment.

Sure enough, the candle in front of the ancestor's memorial tablet, which is the best and largest white wax newly released this year, made a soft pop, and the three cotton wicks surrounding the city spread out. The area of the fire was even larger, and the flames in the candle core were overwhelming. .

Only the names on the ancestors' tablets were illuminated more clearly.

Apart from that, nothing happened, the candlelight flickered, the cigarette smoke curled up, and the ancestral tablets remained silent forever.

Could it be that this is really what the ancestors meant?

"Kowtow again."

Everyone lowered their heads again.

"Get up again."

Ancestors remain unprompted.

"Kowtow three times! Get up!"

Patriarch Li's voice simply roared in everyone's hearts.

Just like that, the last kowtow? !

Li Xiaohan breathed a sigh of relief. The process was over and her position was more solid.

The matter of genealogy is both glorious and controversial. She does not want to challenge the old customs in such a drastic way, nor does she want to provoke conflict between the Li family, but she must become the de facto leader of the Li family.

A foreign war has begun, and according to the late emperor's will, the Wei Dynasty should win. It's not that she thinks highly of herself, but if there is the blessing of alcohol, white wax, allicin, styptic powder, and the blessing of thousands of years of wisdom, the Wei Dynasty will still be defeated, unless there are time travelers from Xita and Beizhou who catch the fever. arms.

Since there is not, then the victory of the Wei Dynasty will be a matter of time. According to the historical process, after the foreign war, there will be a battle between uncles and nephews for the throne.

What we fear most in the civil war is being on the wrong side.

Li Xiaohan originally wanted to train Li Xin and deal with his eldest cousin. Although there was a slight glitch in the process, it went smoothly. His cousin Li Cairong no longer knew where he was in that corner.

However, now Li Xinhe has become a hidden danger. His brother, who looks gentle, is actually proud and literate. Don't stick to small details, but don't give in to big ones. He dared to discuss politics regarding matters in Liaodong. If civil war breaks out and King Ding rebels, Li Xinhe will discuss the inheritance of the throne and the blessings and disasters of the people.

Not impossible.

Li Xiaohan simply didn't want to face this mess.

But people like Li Xinhe are what orthodox literati consider to be justice. Standing on the opposite side of him can easily become a villain and lose people's support.

Since she can't oppose Li Xinhe, she must stand higher than Li Xinhe and speak louder than Li Xinhe. She must suppress Li Xinhe, a young scholar.

Outside the Li family, she is more influential than Li Xinhe, but within the Li family, it is not enough. She wants the Li family to have this recognition. She, Li Xiaohan, is more influential than the most promising man in the family. Ding is better. Therefore, you should listen to her.

There is no better opportunity than worshiping ancestors during the New Year. This is the best opportunity to step from behind the scenes to the front. This is the best opportunity to break people's hearts and rebuild order.

Li Xiaohan's eyes were calm, but her ambition was burning.

Maybe Li Xinhe is just a wedge, and the injustice is the cry in her soul.

Why can't she stand here. She should be standing here. The moment she just read her name, her soul was singing for joy, even more joyfully than when she sat in the position of the person in charge of the medicinal material planting base in her previous life, and her opponent watched her refuse to accept but had to accept it.

Maybe it's the way of the world, and now that she has reached this point, she is no longer satisfied with the small wealth she once had. Troubled times sometimes represent risks and opportunities.

The fiercer the heart, the calmer the surface, only the eyes are shining.

Clan Leader Li above glanced at Li Xiaohan from the corner of his eye and couldn't help but feel shocked by the calmness of this junior member of the clan.

Thinking of what Li Xiaohan said when he found him earlier, Li Xiaohan said, "I won exemption from corvee military service for my clan. I want to be included in the family tree, and I want to stand as a male."

Patriarch Li was so shocked that he almost dropped the teacup. Seeing that Li Xiaohan didn't seem to be joking, he said cautiously after a long while, "Xiaohan, did someone say in front of you that your family has no son? "

That shouldn't be the case. Li Shengli's family has been completely missing, and the others shouldn't be so cold-blooded.

"That's not true." Li Xiaohan denied.

"Does that mean you have decided to recruit a son-in-law to inherit the ancestral hall?" Thinking that Li Xiaohan had just gotten hairpins, Patriarch Li thought this was the most likely possibility. "This is a big deal. Have you told your parents?"

"That's not the case. My family's affairs are decided by me." Li Xiaohan frowned and said, "Clan leader, I have my reasons, but it's just not convenient to talk about it at the moment. Just talk about it, can it be done?"

"What's the reason? I really can't tell you?" Patriarch Li was very embarrassed.

Li Xiaohan nodded, there was no doubt that he couldn't say it. You can't say that King Ding will rebel later. I'm worried that your son will be confused, so prepare to suppress your son myself.

"Let me think about it, think about it. This matter cannot be decided by me alone. I have to discuss it with the elders of the clan. You can go back first."

Even after the discussion last night, some elders in the clan still objected.

"She is a girl, why should she be included in the family tree and take the male position? No, this is against the rules." The opponents are still insistent.

"Perhaps she is planning to recruit a son-in-law who will take the Li family name?" Someone had questions, following the same direction as Patriarch Li.

"She said it wasn't the reason." Patriarch Li explained, "But she refused to tell the specific reason, saying it was inconvenient."

"I guess there are some reasons for this, but I haven't made a decision for a while." Some people want to convince themselves that if they want to recruit a son-in-law, it's not... it's not impossible.

"No, there are no good men in our clan anymore. The ancestral rules cannot be broken." The most stubborn person objected.

"I'm afraid that it has something to do with the exemption from military service. If she gets married, will she be exempted from the military service of her husband's family or her mother's family?" Patriarch Li said with difficulty, "Besides, even if it doesn't matter, such a Isn't such a big contribution worth a name in the family tree? Xiaohan, after all, is an official. If people in our clan don't take her seriously, how can outsiders take her seriously?"

If outsiders don't take Li Xiaohan seriously, the Li family will be even less serious.

As soon as these words came out, the whole room fell into silence.

"Are the villages next to ours all recruiting for military service?" After a long time, the third uncle asked.

"Well, next door to Zhujia Village, Linjia Village, Zhoujia Village, there is another Jinshi in Zhoujia Village, and the clan members have also recruited them." The clan leader has the most say in this matter. He is in charge of these matters. After the recruitment, don't mention the other clan leaders. He was envious of him, and even the mayor looked at him favorably.

There was another moment of silence. No one disagreed with Li Xiaohan about this matter, and no one wanted to give up this treatment.

"Troubled times! I think back then, when our clan fled, my father left behind all the ancestral tablets. Now the ancestral hall has been re-done. There's no way, it's too heavy. I can't run fast if I hold it. eaten."

The third uncle slowly told a secret story, "Only when a person is alive can he have ancestors and genealogy. Since she, Li Xiaohan, is capable and can lead us to live, let's listen to her. Adding a name is nothing, Li Manjing It's not impossible to pass this position on to her."

"It doesn't matter whether you're a man or a woman. In troubled times, whoever has the ability to survive will be listened to. It doesn't matter that we old immortals can't see through it. Don't drag future generations to die."

The third uncle made the final decision, his words ringing in his ears.

Patriarch Li's voice became louder and louder, echoing throughout the ancestral hall. The memorial tablets for the ancestors on the memorial table were neither sad nor happy.

"It's done!"

Done!

=== Chapter === 160

On February 2, the twenty-sixth year of Taihe, the dragon raised its head.

Winter has passed and spring has come again, the people have taken off their mourning clothes, and the green mountains are covered with green clothes. The impact of the death of the late emperor is still there, but the Chinese army has rushed to Longmen Pass, and the two armies have integrated. In recent days, they have successively counterattacked, winning many battles. God bless the Wei Dynasty, and victory over the Western Tartar and Beizhou coalition forces is expected.

The stability in the war has brought great confidence to the people. Just like the turbulent water gradually calmed down, stability began to breed life.

In the mountains behind Pingshan Village, the water is green and the mountains are slightly green. Although there is still a little bit of hoarfrost in some places, the vitality of spring has overcome the coldness of winter. A group of people in brown clothes walked on the mountain path, looming and moving slowly.

"This is a good mountainous area, but no one has managed it for many years. At least we need to find a way out first." Li Xiandong said as he walked in front.

Li Xiaohan pulled out the branches in front of him, frowned, and looked at the topography of the mountain - the slopes were not too steep, and the soil was black and red. It was good land, but there was one shortcoming.

"These miscellaneous trees must be cut down first, otherwise there will be no place to plant Eucommia ulmoides, and the climbing vines on the ground will be too lush. By then, they will not be able to compete for nutrients and they will not be able to grow."

However, there are no chainsaws or other means of transportation now. How can this mountainous area be cleared up by manpower alone?

"It's okay, climbing shrubs and vines is not a problem. We have enough manpower." Li Guiqian looked ahead and patted the big tree at hand, "I'm not afraid of this big wood. Just cut off the bottom circle of bark, and the tree will be fine in autumn and winter." If it dies, then slowly cut it back and use it as firewood. It will not take away the nutrients of Eucommia ulmoides and Panax notoginseng."

This is the only way, Li Xiaohan nodded.

Just as he was about to continue walking forward, he saw Li Xiandong in front of him stepping forward. With a move of his hand, he swung his machete forward, and a colorful pheasant jumped out.

It's a pity that it didn't hit.

While Li Xiaohan was feeling regretful, Old Uncle Zhong casually threw a stone at his side and hit the pheasant's head quickly and accurately without damaging even a good piece of meat.

Li Xiandong stepped forward and cut the road open with a woodcutter and took out the pheasant.

"It's a pity. I've been hungry all winter, so I've lost some weight." Li Guiqian glanced at it, "But this kind of pheasant has the freshest taste and is excellent in stew."

"Yes." Li Xiandong nodded cheerfully, "I will see you pick some fragrant mushrooms later and stew the pheasant with the fragrant mushrooms. That soup will be the most delicious."

Li Xiaohan likes this bite the most.

Everyone continued to move forward. Suddenly, Old Uncle Zhong whispered, "Stop, don't move. Be careful on the right, there is a snake."

Before Li Xiaohan could react, Old Uncle Zhong had already pulled his sleeve to the left. Without unsheathing his sword, Old Uncle Zhong took a step forward and slapped back a green snake as thick as a child's arm.

"One more thing, be careful."

A dozen men in Pingshan Village quickly looked at their feet carefully.

Li Xiaohan kept calm, quickly took out the sulfur snake medicine that Doctor Zhang gave to herself, and sprinkled it on herself first - among them, she had the least experience in the mountains, was the weakest, and was the slowest. She doesn't want to kill the snake. Her most important thing is to protect herself and not cause trouble to everyone.

After making sure that the smell on his body was strong enough, Li Xiaohan handed over the medicine bottle and said, "Everyone, please take another tonic."

At this time, Old Uncle Zhong had already killed the other snake.

"It's a gray rat snake, it's not poisonous, or Lao Zhong, you have good eyesight." Li Guihou picked up the two snakes and identified them.

However, even though it was not poisonous, everyone still applied the snake medicine again - they had already applied the medicine once before entering the mountains. Maybe the water in the mountains was wet and heavy, which diluted the smell of the medicine.

"Xiaohan, how are you? Are you okay?" Li Xiandong came over and asked in a low voice.

"Dad, I'm fine, just keep going forward. I have to see the topography." Li Xiaohan suppressed the fear in his heart and shook his head. Building a career is never easy.

Everyone looked at Li Xiaohan and saw her firm expression, so they continued to move forward.

In the middle of the afternoon, I encountered another nest of gray rabbits, chopped down a highly venomous bungara snake, and picked a fragrant mushroom from the bottom of a basket. There were no wild beasts. I saw a monkey in the distance. The monkey was more frightened than them and ran away all of a sudden.

There were many of them and they were well prepared, so there was no damage. However, Li Xiaohan almost had an idea of this thousand-acre mountainous land, how to plant it, and how to distribute it.

When she returned home, Mrs. Wang took a look and quickly asked Li Xiaohan to change the clothes soaked in mist.

"Oh, why are your face and neck all red? What did you touch?" Ms. Wang was shocked.

Li Xiaohan touched his neck and face. Sure enough, it was a little itchy, and there was also a slight fever and pain.

"Just wait, I'll call Doctor Zhang over." Mrs. Wang hurried out, it was good to have a doctor living at home.

Seeing that he couldn't stop him, Li Xiaohan could only let Wang run out and get the bronze mirror to see what it looked like now.

The bronze mirror was polished very clearly, and Li Xiaohan could clearly see that his neck and face were red, a bit like an allergy.

At this time, Dr. Zhang also came. Seeing Li Xiaohan's appearance, he took a closer look and even touched it.

"You didn't notice it at the time?"

"I didn't notice it, but now that I think about it, I guess it was a bit itchy at the time, but I just didn't pay much attention to it." Li Xiaohan recalled.

"How do you feel now?"

"A little feverish, swollen and painful, and a little itchy." Li Xiaohan said.

"Have you ever experienced a situation like this while going up the mountain before?"

"No, never. When Xiaohan was a child, she used to go up the mountain with me to cut firewood and collect pig grass. It has never been like this." Mrs. Wang said hurriedly, what if she gets a scar now that she is a grown-up girl?

"I guess there are few people walking in the mountainous area over there, and I accidentally encountered an unknown poisonous insect. You have tender skin and a strong reaction. I will get you some herbs, you can make a paste, and you will be fine soon. No, what? "Such a big deal." Doctor Zhang said calmly.

"Sure." Li Xiaohan responded, guessing it was bad luck. It didn't seem to be a big deal. "Mom, I'll go get some hot water and wash it. It'll be better soon after it's cleaned."

"Okay. I'll help you." Wang said quickly.

When Li Xiaohan came out from the shower, Dr. Zhang's herbal medicine was ready, but...it was a bit hard to put down at first glance, a dark mass with a very strong smell.

"Just apply it." Dr. Zhang was afraid that Li Xiaohan wouldn't look good, so he explained, "Although it doesn't look good, it heals quickly."

Li Xiaohan looked at the black mess and said, "I'm going to get a handkerchief and put it between my clothes to prevent it from getting dirty."

I had no choice but to apply it all over my face, which made it difficult to work, otherwise the herbal medicine would fall off when I rinsed it, so I had to lie on my back on the kang.

What's funny is that Li Xiaoshuang, a young and courageous person, saw her sister lying on the kang with a dark face, hehehehehehe.

"Sister, Heihei, Heihei."

"Xiaoshuang, don't step on my sister, let her take a break." Mrs. Wang said while picking vegetables.

"It's okay, Mom, Xiaoshuang is behaving well, let her play next to me. I'm just lying down to rest." Li Xiaohan said

"Xiaoshuang, be good." Li Xiaoshuang was really good. After Hei Hei's sister got used to it, she would sit at the end of the kang and play with the cloth tiger.

Li Xiaohan, who said he was taking a rest, started to calculate in his mind how to deal with the mountainous area he saw today, and how much Eucommia ulmoides could be planted? How many 3 7 can be planted? When will breeding begin? Where to breed?

Thinking about it, staring in confusion, Li Xiaohan gradually fell asleep.

In another part of Dingcheng, a large family is also planning. How to plan their own land? How many species should be bred? What kind of breeding?

"Brother, are we really planting all garlic this year? Isn't it too risky?" The speaker was a middle-aged man in his forties.

"Yeah. Miss Li said she keeps harvesting, so that's what's still being harvested. Let's plant this." The old farmer, who was called Big Brother, squatted in his main room, trimming a hoe under his hands, and thought for a while. , said in a muffled voice.

It was Lao Liu who helped Li Xiaohan purchase garlic.

During this winter, due to the transaction with Li Xiaohan, Old Liu Tou took his brothers, wives and uncles to travel around the villages to buy garlic. Li Xiaohan said that he would charge as much as he had, and Lao Liutou was also very courageous in purchasing. In addition, they are in this industry and know the goods well. They cannot fool them if they store them improperly, so the quality of the garlic they receive has always been very good.

In addition, the price of garlic has been rising, so this year, they not only solved the problem of livelihood, but also made a fortune and saved a sum of money. It can be said that it was a turn of events and a desperate situation.

Now it's time to sow seeds in spring. In previous years, the Liu family grew various vegetables, but this year they have differences.

"But, brother, too many people are preparing to grow garlic in Ding city now. We vegetable growers know best that if there are too many of the same vegetable, it will be extremely cheap. Whose family is there in this city now? We don't plan to plant some garlic in the corner." The speaker was Old Liu Tou's younger brother, who everyone calls him Liu Er on weekdays. "At this time, we should do the opposite and plant those precious vegetables. In this way, when harvested, you can buy it at a high price."

"But, as the war is still going on, how can our customers be willing to eat these precious vegetables? Real nobles, they have their own Zhuangzi to supply them." said the Liu family's brother-in-law, who was still the prime minister. I believe in Lao Liutou.

"The Chinese Army has arrived. I heard that we have recaptured two counties in Liaodong. I think victory is just around the corner and everyone's life will be the same as before." Since the Chinese Army arrived, it has been After winning several times, many ordinary people had hope, and food prices gradually stabilized.

"But I heard that this garlic is used to make allicin. Wouldn't it be more popular if it comes into contact with allicin?" Liu's brother-in-law said.

"This battle will not go on forever, but it will be difficult to find the regular customers who ordered our vegetables in the past years." Liu's brother said.

The two of them each argued once, and the others felt that both of them were right, and they didn't know what they had heard for a while.

"Brother, what do you think?" Someone asked the old Liu Tou who had been silent.

Old Liu Tou pounded the loose piece of wood in the hoe tightly and slowly spoke, "Both of them are right, I don't know who to listen to."

Hearing what Old Liu Tou said, everyone was embarrassed for a moment. Yes, what he said makes sense.

Old Liu Tou let out a long sigh, "We people, all we see is an acre and three cents of land in front of us, and we can only walk a few miles around. Once we leave this familiar place, what is there? I don't know what direction southeast,northwest is, this is the way it is in this life. But, if meet a noble person, it will be different. As long as the noble person gives us a ride, it is Places we never imagined."

"A few years ago, when you were counting how many days the food in the urn could last, did you dare to think that we would be like this?" Old Liu Tou asked as he looked at several people.

"Don't dare think about it. Not only did we not starve to death, Wengli still has food and money in hand."

"Sometimes, we can't figure it out even if we try hard. No need to think, just follow Miss Li. It doesn't matter if you are stupid, just follow the right person."

"Yes, brother, let's follow Miss Li."

Old Liu and his family made a quick decision. Spring plowing was about to begin, the land needed to be prepared, and seeds needed to be saved.

Not only Lao Liutou's family is thinking about this issue, but many other families are also thinking about this issue.

"Master, what are you doing in this corner?"

"The land for growing grains is not easy to use, so we opened up every corner of our house and planted it with garlic."

"Is it possible to plant so much garlic? What if we don't harvest it by then?"

"If you don't want to take it, then don't take it. You won't lose anything anyway. If it works, we make money, and the army has the medicine, so isn't it the best of both worlds?"

"That's true. Master, just wait, I'll help you."

In fact, ordinary people are still conservative, but wealthy people are more courageous.

"Master, what will we plant on the land in our village this year?"

"Half of it grows grain and half grows garlic."

"Master, if you grow so much garlic, what if the government doesn't accept it?"

"I'm not afraid. At least I'm not afraid of the garlic this year. I guess the army is short of it. Besides, life-saving medicine can be used in more than just one place on the battlefield."

"Are those kinds of Panax notoginseng grown in the mountains?"

"Do you have seeds? Do you know how to grow Panax notoginseng?"

"don't know."

"I don't know what nonsense you are talking about. Did the Li family find out clearly that Li Xiaohan's thousand acres of land are planned to be planted with Eucommia ulmoides and Panax notoginseng?"

"Yes. The Li family is very strict, but it's a pity that they can't hide their breeding from the people around them."

"Okay, then we can also grow Eucommia ulmoides in our mountainous area."

It was as if a wind was secretly blowing in Dingcheng. In addition to the immovable grain, everyone followed the trend and planted garlic, white wax, eucommia and other medicinal materials, without considering whether there would be overcapacity.

Fortunately, there is no overproduction problem now, only insufficient production capacity.

In King Ding's tent, King Ding was handling official business. The guards came to report, "Your Majesty, General Zheng of the Chinese Army is here."

"Please come in quickly." King Ding quickly put down his pen and stood up.

General Zheng was a veteran general from the late Emperor's time. He followed the late Emperor all the way to build up the country and was one of the most respectable generals in the court. Before the death of the late emperor, the decree stated that the Chinese army would be led by General Zheng to support Liaodong. Sure enough, after General Zheng came over, the two armies joined forces and practiced small counterattacks while integrating the two armies. Now the recapture of Liaodong is just around the corner.

King Ding respected these loyal and capable old generals very much, so he went to greet them personally.

However, General Zheng was a very observant person. When he entered the camp, he first saluted King Ding.

"My lord, I have met the prince."

"No courtesy, no courtesy, please get up quickly, General Zheng." King Ding quickly stretched out his hand to support General Zheng.

Unexpectedly, General Zheng performed the ceremony very solidly. King Ding, who was still in his prime, did not expect it. Old General Zheng cleverly moved his strength and performed the ceremony solidly.

King Ding suddenly felt something bad in his heart, "I wonder why General Zheng is looking for me?"

"Your Majesty, the soldiers of the Wei Dynasty are one family, and now they are fighting together in the Western Tartar Prefecture. Only the wounded soldiers under your command have alcohol, garlic, and styptic powder, but the wounded soldiers in the Chinese army can only watch and wait. Die, I hope the prince will treat our soldiers together and don't lose military morale."

ah. Just say that there is no good thing, and it is true. Here comes the robbery.

King Ding roared in his heart.

I was extremely poor, and it was clearly written in Chengan's paperwork that this alcoholic allicin styptic powder should be used sparingly, little by little. Now the Chinese army has come to collect wool.

No, no, never. Just think of a way!

=== Chapter === 161

"Uncle Zheng, I feel miserable..."

Old General Zheng was slightly younger than the late Emperor. Before the late Emperor ascended the throne, King Ding and others all called Old General Zheng Uncle Zheng. However, now that King Ding is the king of a local vassal, a man with a strong back and a strong back who fights all year round, he still calls him a child, wipes his face with his hands, and complains about his sufferings.

In short, the main point is that since the death of the eldest brother, the late emperor felt that he was indebted to the eldest brother in every possible way. He understood his old father very well, but in the border areas, years of wars consumed a lot of medical and armament. Sitting in this position, he must not only fulfill his father-son affection for the late emperor, but also fulfill his responsibility of protecting the people. He has no choice but to support himself.

He also cried bitterly about how devastated he was after the late emperor passed away, but the late emperor had left a will, and he had to keep Longmen Pass even if he lost his life. Now that the new emperor has come to power, as an uncle, he should not trouble his nephew. However, his responsibilities are heavier than a mountain. He often has neither enough to eat nor sleep well.

Anyway, it's just crying about poverty, crying about suffering, and crying about all kinds of difficulties.

Old General Zheng did not expect that the gift he gave would come back to him so quickly, and everyone was very adaptable.

Why, as a minister, he couldn't tell whether the former emperor wanted to suppress the king and support his grandson to ascend the throne, or whether the new emperor was on guard against the vassal king.

"Actually, General Zheng sees that our army has alcohol, allicin, and styptic powder. In fact, you don't understand my suffering. No matter how useful the medicine is, it is just a helpless move after being injured. I think the Chinese army only has a sword in the waist. They are divided into long swords, short swords, hooked sickles, and moon swords. Shields also include hand cards, playing cards, swallow-tail cards, and shield cards. There are also four-cornered spear teams, arrow-shaped spear teams, and dragon sword spear teams. In our army, only the physical body "I'm already fighting, how can I take away the life-saving medicine from the soldiers in the army? I hope General Zheng will understand me."

As the largest army that guards the imperial city, the Chinese Army is directly under the command of the emperor, and naturally has the most complete and best equipment. This time, the late emperor had a decree and faced a critical juncture. The great grandson did not dare to change the decree of the late emperor. Therefore, after the army was reorganized, the equipment really shined in the eyes of soldiers at all levels.

Of course, King Ding's army is actually very good. Because it has been fighting against the Western Tartar cavalry, the equipment of King Ding's army is indeed a bit simple, but it is actually the most suitable armament for cavalry operations. Especially after fighting against the Western Tartars for a long time, King Ding's army has a more courageous spirit. This is something that most of the Chinese troops who fight small waves of chaos in the country and guard the peaceful imperial court do not possess.

However, General Zheng could not say this in any case. Even though he is now in charge of the Chinese army, he never dares to forget that the commander of the Chinese army will always be the emperor, and he is only the temporary commander.

If the late emperor was on the throne, General Zheng could also directly say that fighting cavalry does not require too many weapons and requires specialized skills. After all, the late emperor himself had conquered the country back then, so he would naturally understand the principles on the battlefield. However, the late emperor passed away just before he had time to issue the commanding decree. Now it is the new emperor who loves literary affairs who carries out the decree of the late emperor.

The new emperor didn't understand war, so he just piled up equipment to show that he attached great importance to war. When the new emperor arrived, he personally found General Zheng and said that he would do his best to comply with the last emperor's decree. General Zheng felt his feelings, but became more helpless.

"Your Majesty..." Old General Zheng didn't believe that King Ding didn't understand this, it was just that King Ding didn't want to.

Sure enough, King Ding wanted to cover up the confusion, "Uncle Zheng, as a general, I also have my mission and responsibilities."

Although he called Uncle Zheng, the Ding Wang in front of him was no longer the young man he was back then, but a vassal king who held the power of the land. Old General Zheng could not be persuaded by just a few words. He wanted to be from Ding. It is impossible for Wang to take the medicine without real benefits and sincerity.

Wanting to understand this, General Zheng seemed to bend his waist a little, bowed and stepped back, "In that case, I understand, and I will ask the court for instructions."

"Yes, the central army of the Western Army is all guarding the Wei Dynasty, so why divide it into two places. Come, I will see off Uncle Zheng." King Ding said, and he personally sent General Zheng outside the camp and watched General Zheng leave. go.

However, when General Zheng disappeared, King Ding calmed down and became solemn, "Come here, let Cheng'an come to see me."

"Yes, Your Majesty."

General Zheng, who had walked far away, bypassed the many tents, but finally turned back and looked at the largest tent in King Ding's garrison. It was King Ding's tent that General Zheng had just come out of, and slowly fell into Meditated.

Since the enfeoffment, General Zheng had not seen King Ding for many years. After the prince left, the late emperor's secret words were especially at that time, "The second brother is most like me in fighting. Therefore, he must be suppressed."

What did I say at that time? I said, "After all, the prince has done meritorious service in guarding the border. He respects the emperor very much and has no ambiguity about the court. Why should he hurt the relationship between father and son, and the relationship between monarch and minister because of suspicion."

Now that I think about it, they are the father and son who know each other best. King Ding can be shameless and can go to the battlefield. He has many capable officials under his command, and the white wax, alcohol, allicin, etc. show up to help.

Seeing that King Ding's Qi was about to come true, it was a pity that there was no longer a former emperor who could suppress King Ding.

Could it be that... Old General Zheng didn't dare to think deeply, so he continued to move forward, devoting his old bones to the Wei Dynasty for the rest of his life.

Li Xiaohan didn't know that on the battlefield thousands of miles away, someone was thinking about him, saying that his alcoholic white wax was born out of nowhere. If she knew, she would at least blush.

It's a pity that she doesn't know that now she has tied up her trouser legs and is sowing pepper seeds on demand - Li Xiandong and other men are now going to open up wasteland in the thousand acres of mountainous land. They want to take advantage of the fact that the spring has not yet completely arrived. After the growing shrubs and trees were cleared away, the work on the fields in the village fell to the women.

However, even with the busy farm work, the atmosphere in the village is excellent.

"Master, look to the left, look to the left." Li Hehua quietly moved over and said with a secret excitement and gossip, "Don't raise your head, quietly, quietly."

"What's going on?" Li Xiaohan quietly moved his eyes to the left and saw three aunts and a young girl walking on the roadside, talking and laughing, looking very harmonious.

Wait, this girl looks very similar to one of the aunts. She is not from the Li family in Pingshan Village. What's going on? Didn't the clan leader say that no strangers came into the clan?

When Li Xiaohan was confused, Li Hehua whispered again, "Master, if there is no accident, then she might be my sister-in-law."

"Your sister-in-law? Brother Jiachai's wife?" Li Xiaohan asked in shock. If it was a blind date, that would make sense. Those who are brought over by matchmakers or acquaintances to see each other are naturally not among strangers.

But why did I come to see you at this time? Not to mention that the national mourning has just passed, and that spring plowing is about to begin. Isn't it a good time for farmers to hold happy events after winter?

Thinking this way, Li Xiaohan also said, "Why do you come to see me at this time?"

"Sister, this is all because of you." Li Hehua said with a sigh.

When a person is sitting at home and a pot comes from the sky, it is his own fault.

"Sister, you don't know how popular the men in our village are because they don't have to do military service. Let's talk about my brother. The people I met before were all ordinary families, similar to ours. But look at this lady, she is a little girl from the city. She can read, read and do arithmetic. In the past, my family could not climb up to others even if they stood on tiptoe. But now, they are twisting and turning. First of all, interestingly, My mother is overjoyed, she is extremely satisfied and happy."

"It's just a corvee military service, and he's so popular?" Li Xiaohan frowned slightly, and looked at the little lady over there. As expected, she walked very gracefully. She belongs to the lady in the city. character.

"Probably so. Anyway, I know that the girls from the next village all want to marry into our village. Think about it, if a man is drafted into military service right after he gets married, wouldn't that be considered a widowhood? Besides, on the battlefield If you are blind, you will probably be ruined for the rest of your life. So men in our village are very popular."

"In that case, you don't want to get married yet. Do you know?" Li Xiaohan said very seriously. Li Hehua is only half a year younger than him and will be born in the middle of this year. According to the tradition of Pingshan Village, it was almost time to start seeing each other and slowly settle down.

"I know. My mother said so too. Now that I'm married, I don't know what will happen. It's better to stay for a few more years. Although I'm a little older, it's better than those who don't know whether to live or die." Li Hehua whispered. , with a joyful tone, "Besides, I don't want to get married so early. I want to stay at home for a few more years."

"Just, I wonder if it will be easy to get along with my future sister-in-law? She is from the city after all." Li Hehua's tone turned worried again.

"Don't worry, as long as she is smart, she will definitely treat you well." Li Xiaohan said.

While she was speaking, she had already thought clearly. She estimated that the young lady who could make Li Hehua's family feel so high up was not from an ordinary family in the city. In such a family, it was said that the man would not have to serve in the army for three years. Marrying is definitely not the whole reason - for such a family, if they take the money, they will probably be exempted from corvee military service. If they really get to that kind of land, they will probably run away.

Being able to marry like this is more likely to have other plans, such as investment.

Marry a girl and leave yourself a way out of the village. In times of war and chaos, a strong farmer is better than a scholar who can't catch a chicken or a rich man with a delicate body. Easier to survive.

In addition, it was not that Li Xiaohan thought highly of himself that he married here, but he wanted to have a good relationship with himself, or that he wanted to be first in line.

Li Xiaohan thought for a while, then smiled and reassured Li Hehua, "Don't feel inferior to others. You can't read, read, write, and do arithmetic as well. You can also stir-fry chili sauce and make wine. I have taught you for so long, not to let you look down on yourself because of your status in a city."

"Master, you're right, I'm the one who got confused." Li Hehua lowered her head and said with a smile, "We are not afraid of her. I have a room in the house at home."

"Yeah. Yes." Li Xiaohan said.

In fact, Li Hehua's mentality is also easy to understand. Since ancient times, a daughter-in-law has been married to one of her own, while a girl has to marry an outsider. Therefore, if there is a conflict between the aunt and the sister-in-law in the family, there are so many confused people. It makes sense to stand as a daughter-in-law rather than as a stander. Although Li Guihou's family is not such a family, if the family background of the girl he marries is too different, Li Hehua will show his timidity first.

"Just figure it out yourself." Li Xiaohan said, "I want to talk to the clan leader about something. Do you want to come with me?"

"No, Master, I still have to watch here. If anyone asks about Fanjiao, Uncle Xiandong and you are not here, so I have to watch."

While they were talking, someone from a distance shouted, "Xiaohan, Lotus, would any of you come and see if our seedling field can reach this height?"

"Hey, Aunt Shugen, Master is not free, let me show you." Li Hehua stood up and waved loudly in response, her tone loud and powerful.

"Master, go ahead." Li Hehua said as he happily walked towards the place where he was shouting.

Li Xiaohan looked at Li Hehua and then at the roadside - several women and girls nearby had stopped, looking at him without knowing what to say. Li Xiaohan adjusted his sleeves and stopped paying attention to them, but walked quickly to the patriarch's house.

Fortunately, Patriarch Li was also at home at this time. Li Xiaohan explained the situation clearly, and Patriarch Li also frowned.

"I also know the situation you mentioned. After the national mourning, during this period of time, there are not too many people in our village who look at each other. Most of them are young ladies from good families who did not dare to reach out to others before." Patriarch Li said. , not only the aunts in the village were moved, but he himself was also moved, "I also know, Qi Dafei, there are so many things going on in our village, and someone who marries in this way may not necessarily be a good match."

"It's just that every family in this family only respects the orders of their parents when it comes to marriage. It's not like I, the clan leader, can interfere too much."

It's also difficult to interfere. There is obviously a better young lady, but I chose one with poorer background, appearance, and talent. Just because everyone's family background was similar in the past, even the clan leader couldn't talk anymore. .

If they become feuding couples in the future, will the clan leader still be able to shoulder this responsibility?

For a moment, Li Xiaohan and Patriarch Li were both speechless.

"Then we'll have to figure out how to get a wife. Girls in our clan shouldn't get married yet." Li Xiaohan said. When girls get married, they are giving hostages to each other's homes. If there are really such ruthless people, Li Xiaohan will find it difficult to tolerate them.

"There is no problem with this. In this situation, it is not safe to get married. Why not stay at home for a while and then take a look at it." Chief Li said that the Li family is not that rigid, although it is good at reading and literacy. She is a bit patriarchal, but she doesn't care whether her daughter lives or lives.

After this problem is solved, it comes back to the problem of marrying a wife. This is really difficult to solve.

Just as I was worried, someone suddenly said, "Master Li, I have an urgent letter from you."

Call yourself Mr. Li, and the person who can go directly to Patriarch Li's house in Pingshan Village is probably someone sent by Zhang Fu.

"Bring it over and let me have a look." Li Xiaohan took the letter and opened it quickly for fear of delaying things.

Sure enough, it was a letter from Zhang Fu. The letter first wrote about the Chinese Army, and then told Li Xiaohan that it was imperative to supply allicin to the Chinese Army. He just asked Li Xiaohan to do a good job depending on the final negotiated price. Be prepared, it can be busy.

Li Xiaohan smiled, folded the letter, and handed it to Patriarch Li to read this paragraph.

After the patriarch finished reading, Li Xiaohan said with a smile, "Patriarch, I think the allicin workshop and Panax notoginseng pharmaceutical workshop in our village will be built as soon as possible. The boys will do some work first, and save the money. Let's save some money and then talk about marriage. As long as we develop, we won't be afraid of overshadowing my wife's family."

It's really developed, and the Li family is not bad either. We are all well-matched, so we can just move around as in-laws.

"Yes, yes. That's the truth." Patriarch Li nodded repeatedly. Since ancient times, he bowed his head to marry a wife and married a daughter from a high family. Patriarch Li asked himself that a good man of the Li family should naturally make a living on his own.

Fortunately this letter came in time. Patriarch Li sighed.

From the corner of his eye, he watched Li Xiaohan put away the letter and put it back into the envelope. Patriarch Li didn't take it to heart. Communication in the military must be a secret that one should not know.

Xiaohan should be more cautious.

However, Patriarch Li really guessed wrong. It was not a secret that was not shown to him, but it was indeed not very suitable for Patriarch Li to see.

"I heard that Miss Li was included in the Li family tree. I am thousands of miles away, so I am really sorry that I couldn't say congratulations to Miss Li in person. In my heart, Miss Li is more talented than most men in the world. In ancient times, women have been together in temples. Heaven is proclaimed emperor, the rivers and lakes spread Yi An's poems, his writing is Zhaorong and he is granted the title of prime minister, and his military skills are red jade and he retreats the army. I wish you, Miss Li, to show your abilities and become your way."

=== Chapter === 162

"Head of the house, I always feel bad. You said that Xiaohan glanced at us and then ran away. Is there any hint?" At Li Guihou's house, Mr. Ye was absentmindedly picking vegetables. , asked Li Guihou in a low voice while repairing farm tools.

"How do I know? I wasn't there at the time." Li Guihou said in a low voice without raising his head, "I'm telling you, don't be anxious, take your time. You have to say that this matchmaker's introduction is good, and with the help of his seven When you come here to visit relatives, let's take a look first. Okay, you can take a look first. If you think it's OK, then let our father check it. But now you are worried about this. Can we be married?"

Mrs. Ye glared at Li Guihou angrily, and after the separation of the family, she realized that this man was not the eldest son. In the past, at home, the eldest brother and the younger brother all thought of taking care of things. Li Guihou just followed suit. I also feel that my man is not bad.

After the separation, I looked at him and said, "Hey, I have to poke and poke before moving. I still listen to my father and my brother." Nowadays, the father is not in a hurry about his son's marriage, as if the son was born by himself.

Madam Ye was so angry that she squeezed out the juice from all the cabbage leaves under her hands, and then she had to endure it and continued, "This girl is really nice. I have a house and a shop in the city. I promised to give the girl a small shop as a dowry." , the girl herself made good calculations because she was good-looking, and she also admitted frankly that the world was in chaos, so their family wanted to find a family to grow grain, and that's why they found our family. You say, in the past, people with such talents, How can you like us, such a good daughter-in-law, don't worry about it."

Li Guihou scratched his head, thought for a long time, and then said, "We, Hehua, can also do abacus smoothly. Hehua can also read, count, stir-fry peppers and make wine. This family wealth will be the eldest son and daughter-in-law in the future. How can I watch, You don't look like my sister-in-law at all, and you don't match yourself either."

Ye was so angry that she threw the vegetable leaves on the plate. How could she not know? That's why her heart was so worried. This man really couldn't give him any advice, "I'll go next door to chat with sister-in-law Xiandong."

"Hey, no, we won't cook anymore? Aren't you hungry?" Li Guihou was very confused. Why, he didn't even cook anymore. He was so anxious about marrying his daughter-in-law.

"I'm full, so I won't eat." Ms. Ye stood up, shoved the dishes into the kitchen, put down her sleeves, and ran out of the door in a hurry, heading straight to Li Xiandong's house next door.

Only Empress Li Gui was left confused, no, this... he was hungry. After Li Gui stood still for a moment, he went to the kitchen to take out the dishes and wash them with water, preparing to make a fool of himself. After thinking about it, I added a handful of rice, so that my mother-in-law would have to come back to eat later when she was hungry.

Here, Mrs. Ye ran to Mrs. Wang's house in a hurry. Mrs. Wang happened to be washing vegetables and asked in confusion, "Sister-in-law, why are you here?"

It's going to be meal time later, so don't prepare to wash vegetables and cook rice now.

"I'm here to find Xiaohan. Is she at home?" Ye said. In Li Xiandong's family, Li Xiaohan is really in charge. In fact, Ye wanted to ask Li Xiaohan's opinion.

"At home, in the room." Wang said with a smile.

Ms. Ye stood up and took a look. The silhouette of Li Xiaohan in front of the window was writing with his head down, "Then I'll wait a moment."

"Hey." Wang responded. Both of them naturally felt that it was appropriate for an elder of the Ye family to wait for Li Xiaohan.

"Sister-in-law didn't take anyone to see her today, what's the result?" Wang asked quietly.

Although not many people knew about the news of Mr. Ye's meeting, they did not hide it from Mr. Wang. After all, the two families are very close now.

However, when Wang mentioned this news, she didn't want to know the outcome because of gossip. She just wanted to see what the conditions were for the marriage of the young lady in this city. She had a good idea. She, a girl, has grown up to have haircuts, so she has to gradually understand these customs.

Ye looked around and saw that there was no one else there. Only Li Xiaoshuang was playing on the kang next to her. This little bean was not afraid. The desire to talk came to Ye's heart, "The girl is a good person and has outstanding talents. She can read and embroider." The abacus, everything is good. I said that I could marry a small shop in the city as a dowry. The world is in chaos, just so that we can grow food safely here and leave a way out."

While listening, Mrs. Wang thought about it in her mind, knowing how to read and embroider. Although her daughter was not good at embroidery, she had money to buy clothes directly and marry into a shop in the city. Not to mention, her daughter had houses in the city and good farmland in the village. , talent and appearance, in Wang's heart, there is no one who can compare with her own girl's talent and appearance.

The more Wang listened, the happier she became, and she was in the mood to say a few words, "Isn't this good? Why do you look unsafe?"

"This is so good. You don't think you fit in with our village. Our family lives an ordinary life, and we're afraid we won't be able to live anywhere." Ye Shi said worriedly.

"That's the truth." Wang nodded again.

"Hey, it's not easy to get a wife. My head is twisted just thinking about it." Ms. Ye sighed.

She is really worried. She is afraid that she will reach too high, and she is also afraid that she will miss out.

But as soon as she said these words, Mrs. Ye felt that she had passed. Mrs. Wang did not have a son. This was not just talking about hair, specifically poking at people's shortcomings. Mrs. Ye quickly changed the subject, "But it's better than talking about hair." It is more difficult to marry a daughter-in-law than to marry a girl. In today's world, I don't even dare to think about what to do with my Hehua, so I can only keep her at home for two years."

"No." Wang was not stung by Ye's worries about marrying a wife, but she immediately understood Ye's worries about marrying a girl. "Xiaohan just got haircut, and I don't have a clue."

"Don't be anxious, Xiaohan. Xiaohan is so good. Most people can't deserve it, so don't be impatient. Especially now, if you accidentally don't know who will be arrested for military service, it's absolutely impossible. I'd rather the girl be here. Stay at home for two years and see what happens." Ye said firmly.

"I think so too." Wang firmly agreed, "I'm just afraid that waiting too long will delay the flowering period."

Actually, Mrs. Wang had a vague feeling in her heart that her girl's thoughts did not seem to be focused on this. Only then did she feel that she seemed a little unaware.

"It's okay, let's take a look before we talk, take a look before we talk. I didn't dare to tell her about my lotus, for fear of her thinking. In a girl's house, the carefree days only last a few days. It's been years." Ye said. Then he was suddenly startled. Shouldn't he tell Xiaohan that no matter how powerful Xiaohan was, he was still a little girl who was almost the same as Lotus.

I am really confused.

Ye Ming thought clearly and already had the intention to leave, "Brothers and sisters, I don't think I'll bother Xiaohan anymore. I'll leave first. I still have to take care of the family's food."

Unfortunately, Li Xiaohan opened the door and came out, "What does Second Aunt want to do with me?"

"Ah, it's nothing. It's nothing." Mrs. Ye quickly denied it. Seeing that both Li Xiaohan and Mrs. Wang looked confused, she quickly used her daughter as a shield, "Let me see how my lotus is doing? Where are they today? Come eat."

"Hehua. After Hehua finished working in the fields, he was taken away by Brother Cai. He will probably go home for dinner."

"This boy, what are you doing to pull his sister? I wonder if her sister is busy? I'll go back and talk to him." Ms. Ye frowned. The girl at home was much busier than her son.

"Brother Jia Cai seems to have a math problem, so he asked Sister Hehua for help." Li Xiaohan said, "If you don't have much to do at home, please ask Brother Jia Cai to learn literacy and arithmetic recently. We are going to build a workshop here, and the clan leader is preparing to support the young people this time."

"Really, when did it happen? What are the tests, literacy and arithmetic?" Mr. Ye's eyes widened. Everyone noticed how good the wine shop was, and now they have to build it again. Workshop, isn't this... Ye's heart became hot.

"Yes, we need to learn how to cook medicinal materials and other things from Dr. Zhang, so we need to choose young people who can read and do math. Young people learn things quickly." Li Xiaohan advised, "I heard that my aunt recently gave Brother Jia Cai looked at each other and we were so close, so I said I was afraid that brother Jia Cai and brother Jia Bao would be distracted and not choose him when the time came."

Li Xiaohan looked at Mr. Ye and continued to say with a smile, "Besides, since our family is well, when will we not be able to marry a wife? When the time comes, Brother Jia Cai has learned something and has a future, and everyone can sit down and get married." Wouldn't it be nice?"

He just said the words to Ye's heart.

Ye nodded desperately in his heart, but no, that's the truth. Now he always feels that he has reached a higher level and has no confidence in his heart. If her son is promising, why should she be like this? Then everyone can get married openly.

"This is the truth, this is the truth. I still need you, Xiaohan, to remind me."

"I also heard what the clan leader said. Soon the clan leader will inform everyone of the news. I also saw my uncle today, so I gave her a few words."

"Good girl, thank you for reminding me, otherwise I would have missed something." Ye said with a smile, "Xiaohan, I'm going home first. Hehua has been eating at home these days."

Let your girl teach her brother well.

I have to go back and sort out my food. Only when I eat well can my head move faster. The child's father's craftsmanship at home can't kill anyone.

"Hey." Li Xiaohan responded cheerfully, watching Ye leave in a hurry.

"Xiaohan, is our clan going to build a workshop?" Wang asked.

"Yes, I have discussed it with the clan leader, and construction will start soon. Mother, if you want to tell anyone, you can secretly agree." Li Xiaohan said quietly.

"Will this...will I miss your business?" Wang hesitated.

"It's okay, mother, you made your decision." Li Xiaohan said, "Whoever you choose will be dealt with fairly by the clan leader."

"Sure, then I understand." Wang said with a smile, there are a few people in the clan who are indeed on good terms with Wang. Now that my daughter said it didn't matter, I would say hello to them in advance.

Within a few days, the open space next to the clan's wine shop started to be marked and ready for construction, and a group of middle-aged men started working enthusiastically.

But what is more passionate than the middle-aged man is the hearts of the young people in the whole clan. The news of the recruitment of people in the workshop has spread openly and covertly. Now everyone is secretly competing with each other and studying hard at home. , is bound to be selected.

As for the young people in the clan looking after each other, hey, there's no rush in this, let's take it easy first.

And in the midst of this busy construction project, what has been quietly overlooked is the envious gaze of the girls in the village.

No one has ever thought about learning crafts, and the role of girls. After all, girls are going to get married, and those who can bring dowry are already extremely enlightened parents. It has never been said that those who can learn Married by craftsmanship. That's all, passing down the family heirloom skills from the male to the female, and from the daughter-in-law to the girl.

Even Patriarch Li objected, "Xiaohan, our ancestors taught us that men should take charge of the outside and women should take charge of the house. Girls should learn kitchen skills and needlework, so they don't need to learn this."

"Most of these prepared medicinal materials are cooked on the stove. Look at how Dr. Zhang cuts, bakes and stir-fries them. Isn't that the same?" Li Xiaohan smiled innocently, but did not give in.

"This...how can it be the same? Besides, the preparation of the medicinal materials requires a lot of finesse. If the girls don't know the numbers and misrecognize the words or mix the wrong medicine, wouldn't it be a mistake? This... The skill in medicine is related to human life." The patriarch was confused.

"So let them take the exam together, regardless of whether they are male or female, only those who can pass the exam will be accepted. Isn't this the most correct thing? Is it possible that just because the male can't pass the exam, they will be accepted, and the female who can't pass the exam will not be accepted. Accept? This is about human life!"

"Xiaohan, this... this has never happened before." Patriarch Li was very embarrassed.

"Clan leader, no one in our clan has ever known how to styptic powder, make allicin, or make wine. This is not a family tradition of the clan." Li Xiaohan's attitude gradually became tougher, "I asked I passed Dr. Zhang. Dr. Zhang said that girls can also study medicine. Dr. Zhang's junior sister is also the exclusive doctor of the general's wife. Why do you think that girls can't do it? Are you afraid that men will fail the exam? Win, aren't all men studying in ethnic studies?"

Patriarch Li looked at Li Xiaohan. Li Xiaohan was so smart that she would not know what he meant, but she still insisted on what she meant.

That's all, that's all, it's not something he can decide after all. I used to take one step back, but now I just take one step back.

"Okay, let's do as you say." Patriarch Li sighed and compromised.

If these little brats in the clan fail the exam, he will whip them one by one.

"Patriarch, don't worry." Li Xiaohan smiled again and looked very talkative.

It's a pity that this can no longer deceive Patriarch Li. Now when Patriarch Li looks at Li Xiaohan, he only thinks that she is a little flesh-eating fox with fangs, not a fuel-efficient lamp at all.

How can such a girl get married in the future? It's better to stay at home and find a son-in-law.

=== Chapter === 163

"Master, why didn't you say in advance that girls can also take the exam? Instead, you waited until the final announcement." Li Hehua asked quietly.

Li Xiaohan paused for a moment, thought of something in a daze, and lost his mind. Then he came back to his senses and said with a bit of nostalgia, "Probably because I once heard a saying, which is called entering the village quietly. Those who shoot don't want it."

"What do you mean?" Li Hehua was confused.

"It means that if we want to do something, we should not make a big fanfare before we succeed. We should prepare and work quietly. It will be easier to get the results we want."

Seeing Li Hehua's confusion, Li Xiaohan continued to explain, "How many girls do you think can win against men if we recruit people this time and it's absolutely fair?"

Li Hehua thought for a while, then reluctantly accepted the reality and said dejectedly, "There should be very few. They can basically read and do arithmetic. Many girls can't."

"Yes." Li Xiaohan smiled sadly, "I think the girls who came to our home a few years ago to learn abacus and read are probably the most outstanding girls in the village. After all, they have ambition, ideas and actions. , the basics are not bad. However, even a few of them, I don't know if they can get in. After all, they are just learning in their spare time. How can they compare with the professional teachers in ethnic studies? It's about teaching. So, I simply don't say it. If I don't say it, there won't be any objection from the clan elders, and the criticism won't be so big. This is the rule."

Why not make it public directly first? Li Xiaohan also thought seriously for a long time.

The reason why Patriarch Li was able to pass was because Patriarch Li was considered an open-minded person in the clan, and after all, Patriarch Li's family was deeply involved with him, and the patriarch knew him well.

Moreover, this matter did not have much to do with the clan leader's interests. After all, the clan leader only had one son, and Li Xin and a senior official looked down upon the quota in this workshop.

But the same cannot be said for the elders of other clans. Who doesn't have a whole family living together, with a long list of grandchildren, and they wish they could have more places in their own family? If there are still girls coming to grab jobs, regardless of whether they can grab them or not, some old-fashioned people will probably jump up and cut off all the opportunities.

Li Xiaohan does not underestimate herself, but she also does not want to underestimate the stubbornness and influence of certain people in a clan with a long history under the influence of interests. She does not want to turn this matter into a confrontation between the girls and the clan— In this era, conflicting with clan ideas is not good for all girls.

She hopes that the road for girls will be easier, not harder. If you can have subtle skills, who wants to act like you are fighting against the whole world? Just because she has this confidence does not mean that all girls have this confidence.

So, let's just not talk about it for now, wait until the time of registration to say it all, and make a quick decision. By then it will be too late to object.

When the rules were set, a small path was left. Although this road is difficult, maybe someone can make it through it.

"Master, don't worry, I will sign up when the time comes. I will definitely try my best." Li Hehua said seriously, secretly vowing to be admitted to this workshop.

She knew that in ethnic studies, some students were old and had no hope of taking the imperial examination. It was better to learn a skill than to go home and farm, so the competition was particularly fierce.

However, because of this, she, Li Hehua, must do it even more. Not just do it, but do it well. Not only must you pass the exam, but you must also be among the best.

Master seems to be confident now, but it would be very difficult for one person to break out of this path. She, Li Hehua, wants to work with her master to tell her clan members and everyone that they can do it.

Li Xiaohan smiled, touched Li Hehua's head, and patted her shoulder, "Don't be too nervous, just try your best. How long have you been studying with me? Look at your brother and the others, they have been reading since childhood. When I am more than ten years old, no matter what, Lotus is the most powerful in Master's heart."

Li Xiaohan smiled gently on his face, but he was not gentle at all in his heart.

Li Hehua is of course the most powerful. The workshop selects people who work hard and can read and write in order to better prepare medicines. But in addition to literacy and arithmetic, seriousness, meticulousness, dexterity, quick thinking, cautiousness and intelligence are more important. These are Li Hehua's strengths.

If Li Hehua can't do it, then it's a black box operation within the clan. You have the final say on the selection criteria.

Li Xiaohan smiled and touched Li Hehua's head. She was not sure about the others, but she would definitely send Li Hehua in.

At the end of February, the Li family's workshop was finally completed. The second courtyard, the courtyard, the cloister, and the front eaves are all very large, making it convenient for drying and processing medicinal materials.

With the completion of the workshop, the workshop finally announced that it was recruiting people. This news had been circulating for a long time, and everyone in the clan knew it. Now it has finally come to an end.

Just, "Clan leader, why can Lotus also sign up?"

"Why can't Hehua sign up? Li Hehua's surname is also Li." Patriarch Li replied very coldly.

Patriarch Li had kept this news secret until yesterday, but he finally couldn't keep it a secret anymore and was severely criticized by the elders of the clan. That is to say, Li Xiaohan had a tough attitude and had too much power to speak, so the two of them were able to survive. But Patriarch Li is not in a good mood. He was told by the elders of the clan to forget about it. Now everyone can question him as the patriarch, right?

"But, but, Li Hehua is a woman. How...how can this be allowed?" The person who asked was very confused.

"Why not? This workshop only recruits workers, and women can't work? You don't need women to do the work at home." Li Xiaohan stood in front, looking very gentle with a smile on his lips, but his eyes His eyes were cold, and he glanced over. No one dared to look at him, "What's the matter? You are all afraid of not being able to win a woman in the exam."

In the Li family, no one really says that he is better than Li Xiaohan. ,

Everyone looked at Li Xinhe with hope, and Li Xinhe quickly lowered his head - he didn't want to get into trouble with Li Xiaohan at this time.

Seeing this, the morale of Li's men suddenly dropped.

Li Hehua stood next to Li Xiaohan, straightening her back proudly - her master was so powerful.

The young men around were dissatisfied. They could accept Li Xiaohan, but they were still dissatisfied with Li Hehua. Especially this time, the workshop said it was recruiting young people, so all the young men in the village who were over ten years old came. .

"Lotus, I'm not convinced by you. Let's compete then."

"Competition is a competition." Li Hehua did not fall behind.

Seeing that the young man's momentum is high, let's not talk about the results. At least this momentum makes the elders of the clan happy - this is also very good. The clan has only cultivated Li Xinhe for so many years, and he still has to talk to Li Xiaohan. I got countless opportunities, maybe because the clan was too patriarchal in the past. Now it seems that we still have to compete, at least the momentum is rising.

If Li Xiaohan knew about it, he would have to explain to the clan elders what the catfish effect was.

The selection will be held on the second day after completion. No one should tremble, as it is useless. Li Xiaohan mainly focuses on surprise and quick victory.

The test is to know the common medicinal materials, ingredients, and the deftness in handling the medicinal materials.

Dozens of young men stood in a row, as well as Li Hehua, Li Lanhua, Li Jingui, Li Lizi... six girls in total.

Li Xiaohan smiled, they were all familiar faces.

There is no nonsense in the selection of people in the clan, especially now that everyone is extremely busy. There is land reclamation in the mountains, there are more and more orders in the city, and people are very busy. Hurry, it is best to choose them right away. People can work.

For the sake of fairness, this assessment was not closed. Almost the whole village watched it together, which was not too lively.

"What's the matter? You didn't take the literacy test?" Some people in the clan were puzzled.

"The name of the medicinal material is written down. Either you have a good memory and remember it all, or you don't read the name of the medicinal material."

"Oh. Why doesn't that count?"

"What Dr. Zhang said, some ratio, one to two, etc., it just counts."

"That's the truth."

"How come you can still take the test of peeling garlic? Who can peel it faster?!"

"Let's see who works faster and neatly. After all, the garlic must be peeled more."

"No, that's not fair, this, this, this..." Who is not a woman working in the kitchen peeling garlic?

"Don't say that, there is no one else who can pound fine powder." This is a comparison of who has greater strength.

The person who spoke immediately shut his mouth tightly.

One morning, after these rounds of selection, everyone finally understood that reading, literacy, and arithmetic are very important, but it is not a complete test of reading, literacy, etc. It still has to be put to use. Reading alone is not enough.

Also, in addition to this, you also need to work more often to be agile.

Considering that the workshop has to recruit people to work, everyone is convinced.

In the end, twenty young people were recruited, and Li Hehua topped the list. Except for the fact that he was not strong enough when pounding the medicine, Li Hehua came first in every round. Who can be dissatisfied? There was no doubt even in the first round. After all, it was not about writing articles and learning, and Li Hehua knew enough characters.

Unexpectedly, Li Lanhua and Li Jingui were admitted from the rear of the crane. Unfortunately, the remaining three girls had no choice but to fail.

"Uuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuah, even in the first round, I didn't know how to read, and I couldn't write down all the medicinal materials." Li Lizi squatted on the ground and cried with tears all over his face. The two losers next to him The little girl was also crying silently beside her, feeling both embarrassed and disappointed in herself.

Li Hehua imitated Li Xiaohan, touched her head, patted her shoulders, and didn't know what to say to comfort her for a moment.

Unexpectedly, Li Lizi, whose face was full of tears, raised her head and smiled with a very ugly and sincere smile, "Sister Hehua, you are so amazing. Congratulations to you. And Sister Jingui, Sister Lanhua, congratulations to you."

Congratulations, you are the first.

Congratulations to you, I can go home and tell my parents that not just girls can do it. Seeing that Sister Hehua still got the first place in the exam, Sister Lanhua and Sister Jingui both passed the exam.

"I'm so happy." Li Lizi, whose face was full of snot from crying, said with a smile.

Several little sisters here comforted each other. Those who passed the exam over there were happy, while those who failed were naturally unhappy. It's just that everyone is watching. Those who fail the exam are indeed disappointed, and there is really nothing to say.

What Li Xiaohan wanted was this effect, "Now that the person has been selected, let's move the things over in the afternoon. Put them in my house. It's really hard to put them down. Move the things here, and let my father and uncle Gui and the others move them over tomorrow. Take everyone with you and start work directly. Renhetang, Qinggang and the Ministry of War are all urging the medicine."

"Sure. Let's do it like this." The clan leader and others said.

Otherwise, Patriarch Li and others can agree to this selection model. There is really a great need for people who can work.

Renhetang and Qinggang are urging the medicine because only Li Xiaohan can supply it, and the Ministry of War is because King Ding has negotiated terms with the court. Everyone is bartering. Anyway, they can get the medicine and equipment in exchange. Just like that, the demand suddenly increased greatly. The Ministry of War could use the formula to make garlic, but all the hemostatic powder was produced by Li Xiaohan.

Isn't it just that there is a shortage of people to work?

If it weren't for the fear that too many people would come in at once and experienced people like Li Xiandong wouldn't be able to bring them over, but instead for the fear of spoiling the medicine, the number of people in this workshop could be doubled.

Now that things have been settled, everyone is relieved.

It's done, Li Xiaohan smiled in his heart.

The right place, right time and right people, she seized this opportunity.

After working hard all day, it was late at night before Li Xiaohan had time to sit down and take a good rest.

The body is very tired, but the whole person is very excited.

The golden candlelight danced, illuminating the list on the desk. Li Xiaohan suddenly wanted to share it with someone. After thinking about it, she opened an open letter and read it quietly.

After a while, Li Xiaohan slowly polished the ink and picked up the brush.

"Second Master Zhang, I have received the letter. I have been busy with many affairs recently, so I hope you will forgive me for the delay in replying. Regarding the genealogy, I feel that I have a lot of kindness to the Li family, so although I have written the genealogy, there are many criticisms. I also think it should be."

"It's just that something touched me a lot today. In the past, I occasionally wondered if I really had nothing to owe. When I looked at Orchid, I thought, if it weren't for me, she might not have encountered those bad things. . Even if I have wrong thoughts in my heart, I will only think about it, but I will have nowhere to act. In the end, I will just follow the trend of getting married and having children, and live a mediocre and happy life. But now, I suddenly realized that it was me who saw it. Little Li Lanhua, it turns out that orchids used to grow in dense forests and wild fields."

"There is also the issue of the clan's exemption from corvee military service. The situation of many girls has become difficult. To marry a daughter-in-law from a high-ranking family, you need to give a corresponding betrothal gift. In that case, the dowry that can be given to the girl may be even less, or even It is possible that the bride price of these girls will be withheld. Now I see that as long as there is a chance, these girls can earn their own confidence. "

"You said that it is the power of Heaven and the talent of Yi An. These great talents have left their names in history. They are the crystallization of wisdom in this world and the pinnacle of the work of Empress Nuwa."

"And I, these girls in Hepingshan Village are all ordinary people. We are just working hard for ourselves and for a better life."

=== Chapter === 164

A few days later, this frivolous letter, followed by the medicine wrapped in balls of straw, set off from Pingshan Village, then passed through the mountains, walked along the plank road, and was firmly escorted to the hands of another person.

"Master Zhang, the medicine has arrived, as well as your letter."

In the tent, Zhang Fu, who was sitting on the desk, immediately stopped writing, stood up, and stretched out his hand. His first concern was not this batch of expensive and urgently needed medicines, but, "Give me the letter."

Under the somewhat puzzled look of the guard who delivered the letter, Zhang Fu took the letter and without even paying attention to the guard's puzzled look, he carefully took the scissors and cut the seal.

Maybe there is some important secret matter over there in Dingcheng. Otherwise, why would the normally steady Master Zhang be so anxious that he didn't even check the medicines delivered immediately?

The guard guessed in his heart that he respected Mr. Zhang even more. Nowadays, all the supplies in the military camp are raised by Mr. Zhang. Mr. Zhang is so busy. The medicine has arrived, but he is not so anxious. Thinking of this, for fear of disturbing Mr. Zhang's important business, the guards quickly withdrew quietly.

Zhang Fu didn't know that his halo had increased. He was obviously very anxious, but he couldn't bear to read the contents of the letter at a glance. Instead, like a thirsty traveler in the desert facing the last bottle of water, he held down Digest it bit by bit in your own heart.

However, even so, this letter, which was neither long nor short, was still read to the end very quickly.

After reading the letter, Zhang Fu was stunned for a moment. He looked at the door, far away in a trance. No one knew what he was thinking.

After a while, he turned back to the first line and read the letter again. This time, he read each word more seriously. It was as if he was by his side, witnessing everything that happened in the letter.

It's like we used to work together.

"Master Zhang, Master Zhang." Unfortunately, this fantasy was quickly interrupted. A call filled with hesitation, joy and urgency recalled Zhang Fu to reality. He was the quartermaster of the Chinese army.

"Master Feng, please sit down, please sit down." When Zhang Fu saw the person coming, he naturally changed back to his former self. He was calm and reliable. Although he was young, he had the skills and shrewdness of a fox. Contempt and fool.

Mr. Feng's heart tightened. As the munitions dispatching officer of the Chinese Army, he had frequently dealt with Zhang Fu during this period, and he knew very well how out of touch Zhang Fu was at this moment.

However, after hearing that a batch of new medicines had been sent from Dingcheng, Mr. Feng decided to give it a try - the agreement with Prince Ding had been reached, and the court also agreed, but the manufacturing and preparation of most of the equipment was still on the way, and it was supposed to be Everyone exchanged goods for goods, but there have been many conflicts in recent days. If he can't bring back new medicines, he, the quartermaster, will probably be blamed to death from top to bottom.

Thinking of this, Mr. Feng struggled to speak, "I heard that a new batch of medicines came to Dingcheng. I don't know..."

"I understand what Mr. Feng means." Zhang Fu frowned deeply and said in a very embarrassed tone, "But Mr. Feng also knows that our army's equipment is very poor, and the soldiers in the front can only fight with their lives. This These medicines are supposed to be life-saving medicines for soldiers, but I am also very embarrassed."

This means that it is impossible for you to want our medicine even if your equipment has not arrived.

"Master Zhang, please rest assured. The supporting weapons and armor are already on the way and will arrive within seven days. I don't know if Master Zhang can make it earlier. It's really difficult."

Zhang Fu's expression finally relaxed a little. After pondering for a moment, Mr. Feng saw this and quickly assured, "Mr. Zhang, please rest assured. I guarantee that these equipments will be delivered to you on time."

If he can't get the medicine again, his reputation will be ruined. His political future and career cannot be compromised here.

"I definitely believe Mr. Feng." Zhang Fu stood up and his tone became gentle, "Since Mr. Feng is so anxious, then Mr. Feng will go with me to take stock of the medicines. According to the previously agreed portion, we will prepare them in advance. Give the medicine to Mr. Feng."

Master Feng couldn't help but be overjoyed when he got the result he wanted. He quickly turned around and walked out of the tent together. Naturally, he didn't notice that Zhang Fu quietly put a piece of paper into his arms. .

The two came to the logistics office together. The batch of drugs was still being inventoried and had not been put into storage.

"Master Zhang, Master Feng." Seeing Zhang Fu and Master Feng arriving, the subordinate soldiers stepped forward quickly.

"Mr. Wu, how is the inventory of this batch of drugs going?" Zhang Fu asked.

"Back to your lord, this is the medicine that was shipped from Dingcheng. The original plan was to have 300 bottles of alcohol, 400 bottles of allicin, and 200 bottles of Panax notoginseng styptic powder. There was no loss in the process. The inventory has now been completed. Waiting for Sir Once confirmed, it can be put into storage."

As Chief Wu finished speaking, Mr. Feng's eyes became brighter and brighter, looking at these medicines as if they were his beloved ones.

"Yes." Zhang Fu nodded and pondered for a moment, "Give half of the medicine to Mr. Feng."

"Sir..." Chief Wu said with surprise, obviously very puzzled by Zhang Fu's decision.

"Do as I tell you."

"Yes, sir."

"Thank you, Mr. Zhang." Mr. Feng couldn't help being happy when he heard that Zhang Fu was so generous and easy to talk to. He cupped his hands and said.

"You're welcome. I have always admired Mr. Feng very much, and I hope that we can successfully drive Western Tartar North State out of Wei Dynasty in the future." Zhang Fu smiled slightly, very bright.

"Yes, that's right. You and I have the same goal. Mr. Zhang, please rest assured that I will help you get that batch of equipment as soon as possible." Mr. Feng said, "Can I... go and have a look."

"Master Feng, please." Zhang Fu waved his hand, and Master Feng walked to the medicine with very agile steps. "Be careful, be careful, don't damage it. This is a porcelain bottle."

In fact, all porcelain vases are wrapped in straw, so they will not be damaged easily. The people who transport them are also experienced. There is no problem from Dingcheng to here due to the high mountains and long roads. How can they be damaged here? , it's just that Mr. Feng is too nervous.

After dividing the medicine into two parts, Zhang Fu kindly let Mr. Feng choose first, and then sent someone to help transport it to the Chinese army.

Watching Mr. Feng and his entourage gradually go away, Director Wu was confused: Didn't he say that this batch of medicine was given to the Chinese Army? The batch of medicine that belongs to them will arrive tomorrow.

However, although he was puzzled now, Director Wu was still very cooperative and said, "Master Zhang, what's left?"

"Put it into the warehouse alone first, and then handle it according to my orders." Zhang Fu ordered.

The Chinese army was not allowed to use it first. They didn't know how good these drugs were. After trying them, the initiative was put in their own hands.

"Yes, Master Zhang."

"Have there been military doctors from the Chinese Army who have been observing and studying at my place recently? They sent people to the wounded barracks to spread the news that half of the medicines from Dingcheng have been brought back by Mr. Feng."

"Yes, Mr. Zhang." Director Wu responded immediately with a shiver in his heart. I think the doctors and wounded soldiers who came to the Chinese Army knew that there was medicine, so they couldn't wait any longer. Compared to Lord Feng, Lord Zhang is indeed much smarter.

Here, Mr. Feng didn't know what happened after he left. Ignorant people are happy. Mr. Feng returned to the army in a daze. He felt that he was so happy and smooth that it seemed unreal, but the medicine was there. In front of him, he has actually brought him back.

Seeing Lord Feng coming back, the subordinate's confidant quickly sent someone up to take over the medicine.

"Be careful and don't collide." Master Feng warned.

"Yes, sir."

"Sir, thank you for your hard work. Sir, please drink a glass of water first." The subordinate said flatteringly, "Today has gone so smoothly. It really has to be done by your Excellency personally."

Lord Feng was also very happy.

However, there are also those who are doubtful, "Sir, today's success is so smooth, it's not like Zhang Fu's style."

Everyone has dealt with Zhang Fu. Although he is young, he is too shrewd and cunning for his age.

"We chose the time well. I was watching. As soon as his batch of medicine arrived, I rushed over. With the medicine in front of him, he couldn't forcefully refuse. Besides, this batch of medicine is still I looked at the points and selected them, and I wasn't afraid that something might go wrong."

"Yes, you really have a way." Hearing Master Feng say this, the subordinates no longer had any doubts.

Master Feng was very happy, and then slightly sad. He was older than Zhang Fu, but now he had no choice but to use this method. It was really... But then he thought about it, there was no other way, officialdom Don't stick to trivial matters, just look at the results.

Zhang Fu is still a bit tender. Master Feng became happy again.

But before Mr. Feng could finish being happy, someone came from outside the camp to report, "Sir Feng, several doctors from the Military Medical Department are here, requesting that the medicine be shipped directly to them."

Mr. Feng stood up quickly. There was already a noisy crowd outside the door. The military doctors were talking and taking action.

"Is this the alcohol?" A military doctor picked up a wine bottle, unscrewed the cork, and smelled it gently.

Another military doctor came over and said, "It smells like this. I went to their place and observed it. It's this extremely strong smell of alcohol."

"Let's take a look at this, this allicin."

"It's slightly yellow in color, oily, and has a strong smell. It's this one, that's right."

"There is also this styptic powder. It's a pity that it's made into powder. You can't see any medicinal materials and you can't taste the secret recipe."

Being able to taste the secret recipe made Mr. Feng's heart skip a beat and he was ecstatic. Unfortunately, he heard bad news right away. Alas, think about it, it's possible. General Zheng went out and had no way to get the secret recipe from King Ding. How could he taste it so easily.

Master Feng didn't dare to think about the deep undercurrents of the game, so he could only put his mind back to the present

In just a few words, I saw that these military doctors had seen and tasted all kinds of medicines, and they were sure they were no different from those used by the military doctors in Dingcheng. Although Dingcheng did not show the secret recipe, However, the method of using the medicine is open to the public. Doctors from the Chinese Army have all seen it and already know the usage and properties of these medicines.

So simple and convenient, yet amazingly effective.

I wonder which doctor doesn't want to give it a try?

"Okay, okay, I've finished reading. Hurry up and put it back. Dingcheng said that these drugs cannot be exposed to the air for a long time. They said they are unstable, volatile, and easy to pollute. Hurry up and put it back." ."

"Yes, yes, Master Feng, where is the sealing wax?"

"It's here." Master Feng pointed to the side and said.

Several military doctors quickly resealed the opened medicine bottles with wax, and then said, "Master Feng, there is no need to store it in the warehouse. Send it directly to our military doctor's office."

"Ah, let's do this. Isn't this bad?"

"Here, General Zheng's instructions." One of the military doctors took a look at the official document for Mr. Feng, and then directed the helpers brought over to pull the things away.

The two armies are fighting together in the Western Tartar North Prefecture. The wounded soldiers' camps are all in the logistics department, not far away. These wounded soldiers walk around each other without having anything to do. They often encounter each other, and the two sides exchange information on their injuries and treatment. method, and then compare their respective recovery conditions... It's amazing, it makes the military doctors of their Chinese army look like wandering doctors.

Not only were the wounded and wounded dissatisfied, but the Chinese military doctors were holding their breath - not only were the medicines better, but with these medicines, they could succeed.

Therefore, Mr. Feng could only watch the results of his victory, which only flashed before his eyes, and then was intercepted.

No, he wanted to keep some for himself. Who can guarantee that there will be a day without using life-saving medicine? Mr. Feng also wants to save some to save his life.

Unfortunately, the mantis stalked the cicada and the oriole was behind, so Mr. Feng had no choice but to fetch water from a bamboo basket in vain.

Li Xiaohan didn't know everything about the front line. Over in the workshop, veterans such as Li Xiandong and Li Guiqian, together with apprentices such as Li Hehua, were gradually getting started. The twenty people carefully selected are all the best among the younger generation of the Li family, and naturally they are not slow to learn.

And Li Xiaohan was finally able to free up his hands to do other things.

"Xiaohan, you said that the seeds of Eucommia ulmoides are not enough for seedlings. You can also cut the branches of Eucommia ulmoides and use cuttings for breeding. I understand this." Dr. Zhang said.

Now he has spent a year in Pingshan Village, and unknowingly, the title has followed the Li clan, and Li Xiaohan has had a flash of inspiration in pharmaceuticals. Although it sounds unrealistic at first, but think about it carefully. , gave Dr. Zhang a lot of inspiration, otherwise Mr. Zhang would not have stayed in Pingshan Village for a long time.

Now, watching Li Xiaohan move a big vat, peel the leaves of Eucommia ulmoides and the slender branches that cannot be used as medicine or for cutting seedlings, crush them on a stone mill, then throw them into the big vat, soak them in water, Zhang The doctor was really curious.

"It's just, what are you doing by crushing these useless branches and leaves and soaking them here?"

Li Xiaohan picked up a long stick, stood on the stool, vigorously stirred the branches and leaves in the vat, and explained, "Doctor Zhang, you see there are so many white filaments on the Eucommia tree. Couldn't it also have a use? Like hemp, like silk?"

"No way." Doctor Zhang frowned, "Although there are many white silk threads from Eucommia ulmoides, they are short and easy to break, so they cannot be used to make clothes."

"If I can't make clothes, maybe I can make other things?" Li Xiaohan continued to stir, "I always feel very curious and want to give it a try."

"Yes. Who knows." Doctor Zhang frowned and thought for a while, and finally understood. Also, throughout the ages, many things have been unknown to people. Shen Nong tasted hundreds of herbs before he came to his current understanding. "Are you using water to soak hemp?"

"Yes." Li Xiaohan replied with a smile, "I want to soak it and then rinse the sawdust clean. Maybe I can get white silk."

"It sounds reasonable. Come on, let me help you stir it up."

"You think it makes sense, right? Dr. Zhang, you are really discerning and smart."

"It's good that you know. When I try the medicine in the future, just don't stop me."

"…I try my best."

=== Chapter === 165

Another seven or eight days passed. During this period, Li Xiaohan would open the vat every day to see how the eucommia was fermenting.

Unfortunately, the temperature in spring was low and the fermentation was very slow, so the next step of gum extraction was delayed. There is no way, there is no high-concentration alkali solution or solute or high-speed centrifugal separation technology in this era, so we can only use this particularly slow method.

And during this waiting process, the time came in mid-spring and March, and it was time to transplant the pepper seedlings.

There are so many pepper seedlings this year that apart from rice fields and wheat fields, the rest are densely packed pepper fields.

"Patriarch, why do we grow so many peppers in our village?" Li Xiaohan was afraid of encroaching on the grain fields, so he quickly asked the clan leader.

"Don't worry, the grain fields have not been invaded. I'm watching." Patriarch Li knew what Li Xiaohan was worried about. After all, the world was in chaos and food was at stake.

"What are these?"

"They were all originally cotton fields, or soybean fields." Patriarch Li explained, "Last year we calculated a sum. It cost twenty cents per catty to harvest seed cotton in the city, and it also cost twenty cents per catty to harvest fresh peppers. The price of peppers can reach fifty cents. The cotton field of this acre can harvest about one hundred kilograms of seed cotton, but it can harvest seven to eight hundred kilograms of peppers. This amount is too different. Anyway, cotton is grown. It's also selling money, and growing peppers is also selling money, but everyone doesn't grow peppers all at once."

Li Xiaohan frowned as he listened. The yield of pepper is indeed high. Those high-yield peppers in later generations can produce several thousand kilograms per mu. However, economic crops cannot be calculated like this. In addition to yield, there are also It depends on the market.

The cotton cannot be sold, but at least it can be tax deducted, and at the worst, you can make your own clothes. What can the peppers sit on? They can only be dried in the sun and left to grow moldy at home.

This problem is serious. Li Xiaohan's expression was serious, "Chief, our pepper wine can't consume so much pepper, and it won't work if we add pepper base. There are too many peppers, and we can't sell them at a high price."

Especially now during the war, most of the wine is used to purify alcohol. People are in chaos and don't care about whether it tastes good or not. The pepper base will also be affected and the sales will be greatly reduced. Sales volume has dropped, not to mention the price.

Unexpectedly, the patriarch looked at Li Xiaohan and asked in confusion, "Xiaohan, haven't you seen the accounts of your pepper base for a long time?"

"Ah?" Li Xiaohan looked confused. She has always kept tabs on her accounts, but sometimes when there is too much money, it is just a number, and Fanjiao's income is too stable. If it is stable, she does not need to care too much. There are too many surprises that she needs to pay attention to.

"I heard from Hehua that your pepper base is no longer in supply, and the big merchants who made reservations made reservations from last year to this year." Chief Li said while standing on the pepper field.

"Also, the peppers grown in the village are not supplied to you. Last year, the peppers grown by the villagers were not very popular in Dingcheng. Several restaurants in Dingcheng have already signed documents and placed orders with me. , as soon as the bell peppers bear fruit, the bell pepper vegetables will be served immediately in the restaurant. I even collected the deposit."

Li Xiaohan was stunned for a moment, and then slowly remembered the several times he went to Tongfu Restaurant. They already had peppers mixed with courgettes, peppers stir-fried with bacon, and various spicy dishes. It turns out that when I was so busy that I forgot to pass on the spicy dishes, the cooks of this era had already started their own business.

Li Xiaohan always believes that in this nation, as long as someone comes up with a new way to attract customers and make money, people will follow suit in droves. Don't underestimate people's research on eating.

She is not a great chef, she can only fry, stew, and cook home-cooked food. How can one compete with these professionals?

If you take a step too late, your path to wealth will be cut off. Forget it, this is the best way to go.

"Also, those rice and grain shops have also placed orders with me. This pepper is really easy to use. Not only does it have a good taste when pickling spicy turnips and spinach, but it can also be used to pickle various kinds of meats. It is better preserved. It tastes warm in winter, and makes you sweat and feel relaxed after eating it in summer. The doctor in Renhetang also said that pepper, when eaten in moderation, can warm the body, dispel cold, and lower qi. It has the effect of digesting food. Therefore, when we villagers went to the Western Market, many people in the city asked us if we had any peppers to sell."

Li Xiaohan was stunned for another moment. Unexpectedly, Fanjiao's charm had spread so quickly.

Patriarch Li glanced at Li Xiaohan again, "Actually, this is also due to you. You have forgotten what you made your fortune from. Pepper wine."

Li Xiaohan, with the spread of white wax, tiger balm, etc., has become a legend in and around Dingcheng, especially this color is very positive, which has led to the rise of pepper. got up.

Li Xiaohan didn't know that the pepper thing had developed to this point, and for a moment, he didn't know how to react. However, there should be no need to worry about too many peppers being planted in the village.

"So, we can never lose money by growing so many peppers in our village. Many big businessmen have chosen our Li family in Pingshan Village." Chief Li said with a smile.

In the past, he thought that if a scholar came out of the clan and then reported it back to the clan, he would be on the right track. Now it seems that people like Li Xiaohan are not bad. Think about the workshops in the clan and look at the fertile land in front of you. The patriarch felt that this was not the most suitable path for them.

However, when thinking of the workshop, the clan leader thought of another thing, "Xiaohan, I heard that you still spend an hour every morning to teach those girls how to read and count?"

"Ah, yes." Li Xiaohan said, not understanding why the topic turned here.

In fact, it's not serious reading. She is too busy. Sometimes she teaches whatever she has to do. For example, in the past few days, what Li Xiaohan taught about pepper transplantation was the precautions for pepper transplantation, such as how many leaves a pepper seedling has, how long and thick the seedlings can be transplanted, what is the transplant spacing, and how high the seedbed is.

These are all done while being taught, and they have to record them themselves. If they can't be written down, just copy them down and let them go back and read the words by themselves.

But even with such messy teaching, more and more girls have come to Li Xiaohan's house in recent days. Especially after Li Hehua and the others were admitted to the workshop, more girls joined. Everyone held their breath and cherished this opportunity.

As a last resort, Li Xiaohan, who used to take turns with Li Hehua casually, now also takes time seriously to provide guidance every day.

These girls also helped Li Xiaohan a lot. In Li Xiaohan's opinion, those who could come were all good girls who were smart and quick at work.

"Xiaohan, why don't you also bring the young people from the clan?" Chief Li asked sheepishly.

"I'm taking it with me." Li Xiaohan was stunned for a moment, then realized what he was saying, but he didn't answer and just pretended to be confused.

"I mean, not only the girls, but also your brothers." Chief Li had no choice but to speak frankly.

The workshop has recruited a group of people first, but there will definitely be more to come. People with a discerning eye can also see that the clan's workshop is getting busier and busier. Those who deliver raw materials and transport goods should not be too busy. frequently.

Therefore, when looking at the next round of young people, they are a little afraid that Li Xiaohan will feed Xiao Zao to the girls.

After all, now girls can also take the exam together, they are competitors. Losing will not only lose face, but also lose tangible benefits - the clan workshop, even as an apprentice, that is The salary is two hundred cents per month. It is said that once you pass the assessment of masters like Li Xiandong and Li Guiqian, your salary will still increase.

When it was so clear, Li Xiaohan could no longer pretend to be deaf and dumb, "I taught you this indiscriminately, and it can't be compared with the clan school."

Patriarch Li sighed, "When it comes to work, what you teach is much more practical than the school."

Li Xiaohan thought for a moment, and then said, "It's okay to let me teach. But in the workshop, when assessing people, I have to account for 20% of the usual score. That is to say, the on-site test score accounts for 80%. , I account for 20% of the results here."

"This, this...what if you walk away when you are busy?"

"Hehua will give me feedback. Don't worry, we two masters and apprentices will be absolutely fair and just."

"It's not that I don't believe you, it's just that this matter is a bit big and I have to think about it." Patriarch Li said.

Such a ratio actually means that people who work normally have an advantage, while those who are literate have less advantage. However, when the workshop selects people, it is basically to select people who will do the work, so it is understandable to say so.

"Clan leader, think about it slowly. I have one more condition." Li Xiaohan continued while the clan leader hesitated.

"What other conditions do you have?" The patriarch frowned deeply.

"Aren't you afraid of being unfair? Then everyone is the same. I think the young people in the clan who are 18 or 19 years old have almost forgotten this word after leaving school for a long time. It's better to be in the clan In school, let Uncle Yongzhi open a primary school for half an hour, specifically to teach everyone basic reading and arithmetic. Of course, this is open to both men and women. This is the most fair."

Many girls can't recognize basic skills like 1, 2, 3, and 4, and Li Xiaohan taught them very hard. It's better to give them a chance to receive basic education together.

Anyway, Li Yongzhi, Mr. Lao Tongsheng in the school, is the elder of the clan and there is no need to avoid suspicion.

"This...this is also the truth." Patriarch Li thought about it. It is true that a young man of 18 or 19 years old has no potential for scientific examinations and has gone home to farm early. His literacy and arithmetic are not as good as those of ten years old. In their early years, they were still primary school students in ethnic studies. However, those who need this opportunity the most and are the most able to work are these young men in their late teens and early twenties.

"Clan leader, please think about it and don't be in a hurry." Li Xiaohan did not insist, "Why don't you go back and tell the elders of the clan, so as not to whisper secretly that the two of us have settled the matter like this."

Anyway, if the elders of these tribes disagreed, she would be tired and ask He Hua, Lan Hua, and Jin Gui to help her with basic education. Li Xiaohan doesn't care if someone opposes her, but those who oppose her can't take advantage of her.

In the workshop, her commission accounted for 70%.

"It's done." Patriarch Li thought that the elders in the clan who asked him to come over were really annoying, so he should punish them.

So, these two people made their decision again.

This time, we asked for your opinions first.

Li Xiaohan waited for another two days, but did not get a reply from the clan leader - presumably not everyone had the same opinion. Because once you support this move, it will be indirect support. Girls can also go to school. Then who will do the work at home? You know, a teenage girl can take care of her younger brothers and sisters, serve livestock, and work on the stove. After school, who will do all the work? Even if it is only for an hour, it is not an easy task.

"Master, do you think we can make it?" Li Hehua was very worried.

"It can work." Li Xiaohan said, "If it really doesn't work, let's find a way next time. There are always more ways than difficulties."

Seeing that Master was so confident, Li Hehua also felt relieved.

However, to Li Xiaohan's expectation, it was Jiangnan's businessmen who came faster than the clan's decision.

On this day, Li Xiaohan was teaching everyone to transplant pepper seedlings in the field. Suddenly a tribesman ran over panting, "Xiaohan, Qingsong came to our village with a man from the Jiangnan Chamber of Commerce and said he wanted to see you."

Because there are many secret recipes in Pingshan Village, in order to avoid leaking, the Li family's goods are sold directly to acquaintances - big merchants such as Renhetang, Qingbang, Tongfu Restaurant, etc., ordinary people cannot enter Pingshan Village at all.

Especially strangers, but if it was Qingsong who brought him here, that would be another matter. Qingsong's face represents Zhang Fu's will.

Li Xiaohan patted his sleeves and stood up, "Everyone, please work on your own for a while. I have to leave beforehand."

After thinking for a while, he said to the person who came to report, "Uncle Shugen, please help me call the clan leader. If a distinguished guest is coming, please ask him to come to my house."

"Yes, Xiaohan." Li Shugen ran towards the patriarch's house with a proud expression on his face.

When Li Xiaohan came out of the seedling field, he saw Qingsong waiting by the roadside with a slightly obese middle-aged man, and a vaguely curious young man next to him.

"Master Li." Seeing Li Xiaohan coming, the three of them greeted him quickly.

Li Xiaohan smiled, and Qingsong introduced, "Master Li, this is Mr. Su from the Jiangnan Chamber of Commerce, and this is Mr. Su San. Mr. Su is here this time to ask my young master for help and to ask to see Mr. Li. For details, Mr. Su Said it was explained in the letter."

After that, Qingsong took out a letter from his arms and handed it to Li Xiaohan. Li Xiaohan took the letter, apologized to everyone, and read the letter carefully.

After a while, Li Xiaohan read the letter, carefully folded it back into his arms, and said with a smile, "The allicin issue is of great importance. How about we come to my house and discuss it slowly."

"Okay. Mr. Li, please." Mr. Su was very respectful.

The Dingcheng White Wax was made by Li Xiaohan. The Jiangnan Chamber of Commerce, which controls the Beijing White Wax agency, naturally knows this and respects it very much - even though Li Xiaohan is a little younger than the Third Young Master Su who is with Mr. Su.

Now they, Jiangnan merchants, want to get the agency rights of allicin. Apart from the military, only Miss Li has allicin for sale here. They tried every possible means to get in touch with Mr. Zhang. First, they obtained the consent of Prince Ding behind Mr. Zhang, and second, they hoped to establish a relationship with Li Xiaohan. They also found out clearly that Li Xiaohan was very cautious in his habits and very strict in supplying goods. There was no one to pull the strings, so they came in haste and didn't even know where to open the door.

Now that the opportunity has come, Mr. Su suppressed his excitement and hoped that the next cooperation would be smoother.

Li Xiaohan looked at Mr. Su and was very satisfied in his heart. Mr. Su's arrival at this time was so wonderful.

=== Chapter === 166

Back at Li Xiaohan's house, Patriarch Li arrived just in time after receiving a message from Li Shugen. Several people were polite and condescending before sitting down separately.

"I didn't know Master Su was here, so he could only serve guests with crude tea. I'm really ashamed." Li Xiaohan said politely.

Although Li Xiaohan is an official and Master Su is a businessman, Li Xiaohan does not feel superior to others due to the influence of his previous life. What's more, a big businessman of Master Su's size came here on behalf of the Jiangnan Chamber of Commerce. He was no longer just a businessman, but a representative of a force.

"Mr. Li, you're too polite. Fresh water and light tea are the most elegant. It's only because we were rude." Mr. Su was also very polite.

Li Xiaohan is not an ordinary official. In the eyes of these businessmen, the path Li Xiaohan took is the path they dream of - entering an official position through business. Even if the official is a small one, he has changed his career. Future generations will have a different start.

It's a pity that they don't have Li Xiaohan's skills to make this unique and extremely important medicine.

What a pity.

Both parties are very polite, so the matter will be easy to discuss.

"Second Young Master has already told me in his letter that Master Su wants to obtain the sales rights of allicin from me. I wonder what Master Su's plan is?" Li Xiaohan asked.

Zhang Fu's letter only gave a general outline, and the specific details still need to be discussed in person now.

Having said this, Mr. Su's expression straightened up, he gently put down the tea cup, and slowly but cautiously said, "We want to be like Pewter, and obtain the exclusive agency rights for allicin in Beijing."

"Oh~~" With a long tone, Li Xiaohan did not say directly whether to refuse or agree, but instead raised the hearts of the people next to him.

Seeing Li Xiaohan thinking for a moment, Fang slowly said, "Allicin is different from white wax. It is still medicine. As for medicine, it cannot cure the disease if it is used too little, and it is dangerous if it is used too much. The water in the capital is deep. If something goes wrong with the medicine, , Mr. Su and I, but it's difficult to shoulder this responsibility."

"Don't worry, Miss Li. We have always cooperated with medicine halls, including Renhetang, which also has a branch in Jiangnan. We will naturally be cautious about using medicine. We have never said that taking medicine will not cure the disease. If you get sick or eat bad food, you will get into trouble with the medicine seller. What we sell is not fake medicine." Mr. Su explained, "Besides, those of us who take medicine are more afraid of problems than we are. "

This is true. The current production of allicin is not enough. In addition to supplying the military, the price outside is very high. The people who can use the medicine are at least people with a small family background. They naturally cherish their lives and will not use medicine indiscriminately.

"That's the case, that's the best." Li Xiaohan's expression softened a lot, and he smiled and went to the next step, "Master Su, you know, we don't have abundant supplies here, and all goods must be exchanged for raw materials. Yes, we charge a certain processing fee."

The garlic near Dingcheng has almost been plundered. The price of garlic is rising day by day, and has already exceeded the price of food. There is also alcohol for soaking garlic, which must be purified from the original wine, but Dingcheng has banned grain-based wine making, so all the original wine is shipped from outside Dingcheng.

"There's no problem with this. Please give me an order, Miss Li, and we'll just transport the raw materials." Mr. Su responded. They had been dealing with Dingcheng since they started dealing with white wax, so they knew that Dingcheng's bulk transactions were all Bartering for goods, "I just don't know, how many can we ship? How long will it take?"

Nearly three months have passed since they learned about allicin, but because the situation was unclear before, they have been waiting and watching. Nowadays, the army has verified the usefulness of allicin, and the medicine in Renhetang among the people has often had miraculous effects. How can those high-ranking officials and nobles who cherish their lives endure it?

Mr. Su just wished he could ship it immediately.

But it is a pity that Li Xiaohan did not follow his will. "Mr. Su also knows that we are a small workshop, and the most important thing is to supply the Liaodong battlefield. It is really unsustainable. Let's do this." , on the fifteenth day after your raw materials are shipped, we can produce two hundred bottles of allicin, with a processing fee of six hundred taels. One month is the shipping cycle. After three months we will Let's discuss whether we can adjust it."

"Do we have to wait for our raw materials to be shipped here first? It will be too slow after one month, and two hundred bottles will not be enough." Mr. Su asked anxiously.

Although the bottle containing allicin is not small and was originally designed for the military. One bottle can be used by many people, but the amount of two hundred bottles is far from enough in the eyes of Mr. Su.

"We can try our best to start here, but Mr. Su also knows that there are not many raw materials near Dingcheng, so we really can't rush it at this time." Li Xiaohan slowly explained, "We who make medicine, the last The most important thing is quality, so we still can't rush it. After three months, when our staff is more skilled, we can discuss how to do it."

"Sure, let's do it." Li Xiaohan said this, and Mr. Su had no choice but to agree.

"Okay, Mr. Su, in that case, we will give you the list of raw materials. Please wait a moment." After Li Xiaohan said this, he picked up a pen and wrote out the list.

It's just that this list is not too long. Seeing Li Xiaohan writing non-stop, Patriarch Li next to him was puzzled. He naturally knew that the extraction of allicin only requires garlic and alcohol, and does not require so many things. However, although Patriarch Li was confused, his face did not reveal anything. He would never show his face to hit Li Xiaohan.

After about a quarter of an hour, Li Xiaohan finally finished writing a long list. Mr. Su didn't seem to have any doubts. He just scanned the list to make sure that he could purchase these medicinal materials, and then he had no doubts.

There was no doubt about the list, and both parties signed the document.

"Master Li, there is nothing wrong with these medicinal materials. We will go back and make preparations immediately. We will be able to transport the medicinal materials from Jiangnan by the end of March." Mr. Su put away the documents and said anxiously.

"No problem. When Mr. Su's medicinal materials arrive, we will definitely ship the goods as scheduled." Li Xiaohan was also very considerate.

"In that case, let's take our leave first." After receiving a positive reply, Mr. Su handed over his hands and prepared to leave.

"In such a hurry, Mr. Su might as well stay and have a casual meal."

"We arrived unexpectedly, so we stopped eating." Mr. Su said. "Besides, we were in a hurry to go back so we could collect raw materials."

"That's the case, then I won't keep Mr. Su."

Li Xiaohan said, and he and Patriarch Li sent Master Su out of the door until Master Su got on the carriage. Qingsong came with them, so he naturally went back with them.

Seeing the carriage gradually moving away, Patriarch Li asked, "Xiaohan, if you make such a long list, will Mr. Su and the others be suspicious?"

"Of course they are suspicious, but isn't this something that everyone knows tacitly? In order not to reveal the secret recipe, how could I tell him the exact same raw materials for allicin." Li Xiaohan explained that for a sophisticated businessman like Mr. Su , Naturally, I can guess everything. Since I have guessed it and there is no objection, it means that both parties have implicitly agreed. "Besides, if I list less, Mr. Su and the others may not believe it."

Traditional Chinese medicine uses mixed medicines, and allicin is purified by modern science. These two methods are completely opposite to each other.

Therefore, even though many people in the workshop are helping to make this allicin, only Li Xiaohan, Patriarch Li, Li Xiandong and Miao Miao really know the secret recipe. The others only do part of the work, and they all think that the real secret recipe is very Very complicated.

The main focus is this kind of reverse thinking.

I think at the beginning, the people in King Ding's army didn't believe the secret recipe that Li Xiaohan handed over, and they had to watch Li Xiaohan make it in person. After Doctor Zhang verified it, he realized that the secret recipe was so simple.

It's hard to say that the military also has such confusing practices.

After listening to Li Xiaohan's explanation, Patriarch Li nodded in agreement, "That's how it should be."

"Clan leader, we have another big customer. It's time to add more people to the workshop."

"Yes." Patriarch Li nodded, "I will handle this matter."

Why did this Jiangnan businessman come by such a coincidence? Now I can only recruit people according to Li Xiaohan's idea. If I had known better, it would be better to agree to her earlier. I wonder if everyone can follow her and learn for a few days. However, considering that the girls in the tribe have been following Li Xiaohan to transplant peppers for the past few days and have not learned anything about medicine, it should be good.

In this case, the elders of the clan cannot delay it any longer.

Patriarch Li wanted to understand this and quickly made a decision, "I'm going back first. I'll probably announce this tomorrow. Then we'll see how He Hua and the others learn and determine the next recruitment time as soon as possible."

"It's best to train everyone before Mr. Su and his friends arrive."

"Sure." Patriarch Li nodded and hurried away.

Li Xiaohan watched Patriarch Li walk away before closing the door and going home. Sitting quietly at the desk.

After a while, Li Xiaohan took out the letter from his arms and read it again carefully.

"Miss Li, I have received your reply. I am excited and writing quickly. Unfortunately, I don't know when this letter will be in Miss Li's hands."

"In recent days, Miss Li's name has often been heard in the army. After many wounded soldiers recovered, they said that they were lucky to have saved their lives. I heard them whispering in their spare time, Miss Li, you should be the reincarnation of a fairy from heaven. Come to earth. Save them. Fu had ordered to rebuke them at that time, so that Miss Li's reputation would not become too illusory. There is an ancient saying that the person who kills the king and horse is just on the roadside, and the excessive pursuit of others will be the source of disaster. "

"Of course, in my heart, Miss Li is like the bright moon, spreading its brilliance freely; and like the lush green trees, growing vigorously and wantonly."

"What Miss Li said about women, I hope Miss Li can go smoothly and as she wishes. I also believe that Miss Li can do it."

"Before, the Jiangnan Chamber of Commerce contacted me many times, hoping to purchase allicin. In the past, I was restricted by various foreign products and thought about Miss Li's many affairs, so I never responded. Now, I think it was me who thought wrong. Miss Li would not be trapped here. The sea has always been wide for fish to jump, and the mountains are high for birds to fly. I hope Mr. Su's arrival can help Miss Li and give her a broader world."

"May the breeze rise and send you into the blue clouds."

Zhang Fu is right to say that only changes and only making the pool wider can give birth to more opportunities.

Soon, the clan established an additional primary school, and news spread that a clan teacher would teach everyone how to read and arithmetic at one hour every day. Especially this time, there is no restriction on men and women, young and old, as long as they are members of the Li clan, they can go.

The time is set at night after dark.

As soon as the clan leader announced the news, it caused an uproar in the Li clan.

Everyone is going to study, who will do the work at home? There is no restriction on men and women. Since ancient times, this has not been the case. It is the right way for men to take charge of outside and women to take charge of inside.

However, this news was soon suppressed by another news. The workshop was recruiting people again, this time in ten days.

For a time, the news from the primary school was quickly suppressed. After all, the only other news that could be suppressed was time. Whether you can enter the workshop or not is related to everyone's immediate interests. The small school only provides an opportunity for everyone.

But, who in the family doesn't want to go? You don't have to shed eight petals with a drop of sweat in the fields every day. The harvest will only come from spring to autumn. You can learn a craft at your doorstep, which only takes most of the day from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. in the evening. Since you can make money easily, everyone wants to go.

However, it is impossible for everyone to be able to go to a home, otherwise the home will not be able to function. So, who can go? Who to let go? That's a problem.

"Master, do you think Lizi and the others can get this opportunity and learn how to read in school?" Li Hehua said casually while working.

"Lizi should be able to do it. She has been able to come to our house before. The last time she was selected, she just missed the first round." Li Xiaohan lowered his head and said smoothly.

"Then... what about the other girls?" Li Hehua asked again. In addition to Lizi, there were more girls.

This question also stumped Li Xiaohan. In a family, the manpower available is limited. Who knows whether the girls can get this opportunity. Li Xiaohan paused for a while and then said, "I don't know."

After a while, Li Hehua said hesitantly, "Master, if someone asks you for help, can you help to persuade them?"

"Someone asked you to ask?" Li Xiaohan raised his head and glanced at Li Hehua, only to see that Li Hehua's face was flushed with shame, but he did not deny it, with shame and hope in his eyes.

So Li Xiaohan knew that a certain girl's family was very opposed, and then the girl approached Li Hehua. However, facing Li Hehua's hopeful eyes, Li Xiaohan gently shook his head, "I can't. ."

The disappointment in Li Hehua's eyes almost overflowed.

It's a pity that Li Xiaohan was unmoved, "A family's affairs are very complicated. Unless it violates the clan rules, neither I nor Patriarch Li will interfere. The greater the ability, the better Be cautious. Now someone is asking you to help. You have to think clearly about whether you can help and what will happen after you help. You have to think clearly. "

Li Hehua lowered her head quietly, "I understand, Master."

It was true that she felt soft-hearted for a moment, thinking that it would be best if everyone could be like her.

Li Xiaohan looked at Li Hehua and continued, "Moreover, every household's situation is different. Can I help one, or can I help them all? The opportunities that can be provided have been provided, and the path has been taken." The final step of the road has been paved. If you don't have the means to fight for it yourself, then don't count on others."

Li Xiaohan sighed softly, but said firmly, "The only one who can save your life is yourself. Only when you have the courage, wisdom and strength to fight for yourself can you go out of your own way. After this difficulty, there is still hope If there are more difficulties, you have to rely on yourself."

"I understand, Master." Li Hehua nodded heavily.

"Get to work."

"Yes, Master."

After a while, Li Hehua took the opportunity to go out, faced behind a certain tree, and shook his head gently.

A girl wearing an earthy white cotton dress squatted down quietly behind the tree and did not leave. She just took a branch and scrawled in the mud under the tree, not knowing what to do. What.

After a while, the girl stood up suddenly and ran away.

=== Chapter === 167

The primary school of the Li family in Pingshan Village is running smoothly.

It is located in an empty room next to the clan school. The Li family has some background. The house built around the clan school and the ancestral hall was quite large and could accommodate many people.

It was after dark, and the tall pine branch torches were burning, with a blazing fire disk in the middle, illuminating the house very brightly.

In order to facilitate everyone, and also because there are no textbooks, Li Xiaohan's blackboard and chalk teaching is used. Anyway, in Li Xiaohan's opinion, the conditions are relatively simple, but the simplicity is very familiar. Inexplicably, it feels like something he has seen in a historical documentary.

However, Li Xiaohan thought it was "shabby". The young people who came to study had very upright and serious faces. Especially after Mr. Li came in, they all sat upright with serious expressions - Mr. Li always had his own personality. The dean is surrounded by a halo.

Also, the majesty and power of the gentleman in this era are much greater than those in later generations.

Li Xiaohan looked over again, and saw that in addition to the upright and serious young people sitting on long benches in the room, there were also many people watching the fun outside, including men, women, old and young, with expressions of curiosity, envy, or disdain on their faces. Out of other things.

But at this moment, out of the corner of his eye, Li Xiaohan saw a young girl wearing gray-white earthen cotton, carrying a basket on her back, and there was actually a little baby in the basket. She lowered her head and bent down to sneak in quietly.

"Chunhua, come out, don't bring your brother in to play."

"come out."

The crowd of onlookers scolded in low voices.

Li Chunhua paused as she slipped in, as if hesitating for a while, but continued forward after a moment, found a seat in the corner and sat down, then turned back and said to the people at the door, "I won't go out. Go, I also want to learn how to read."

"If you come out and your brother starts crying, it will affect other people."

Someone in the crowd said very unhappily, how important it is to read and write, how could you bring a baby in to play.

"I don't. If my brother cries, I will take him out. He is very well-behaved now."

When Li Xiaohan heard the commotion here, his brows furrowed and he walked over quickly.

Everyone stopped to see Li Xiaohan's reaction.

Li Chunhua stiffened even more, not daring to move.

Li Xiaohan looked at the baby in the basket and frowned slightly. The baby was about three years old, the age when he went to kindergarten. It was impossible for a baby of this age to sit and play quietly next to him. How difficult.

For example, at this moment, perhaps the unfamiliar environment, the bright torches, and the gathering crowd made him very excited, and he was already moving around trying to crawl out.

"Listen to your sister, or I'll beat you up." Li Xiaohan said coldly, but he threatened this dark, thin and smart little kid.

The little baby pursed his lips, stopped, and looked very unhappy. Because Li Xiaohan looked very unpleasant, he temporarily became quiet - the little baby's senses are very sensitive, who can? He can feel it when he provokes someone not to be provoked.

At this moment, the little baby felt that although the sister in front of her didn't look evil, she felt inexplicably that it was true that she would be beaten if she disobeyed.

However, soon a small piece of candy was stuffed into the little baby's mouth. It was a candy only available during the Chinese New Year, and the little baby's eyes lit up.

"Be obedient and you will have candy."

Feeling the sweetness in her mouth, the little baby nodded, sat down quietly, and began to suck the candy with bulging cheeks.

Li Xiaohan nodded and walked past Li Chunhua, leaving behind a small bag of candy.

Li Chunhua stared blankly at the small bag of candies and was stunned for a while. Then she realized what she was doing and quickly reached out and stuffed the bag into her arms.

The people watching saw Li Xiaohan coming over and said a few words, but they did not drive Li Chunhua out. For a moment, there was no sound.

Above, Mr. Li has already started giving a lecture. I guess it was something that Patriarch Li and others said. Mr. Li's lectures are also very down-to-earth. In the first class, the characters he recognizes are units of measurement, one pound, one tael. , one centimeter...

Not only the young people in the classroom, but also the tribesmen surrounding it were reluctant to leave and gradually became fascinated.

After a while, Li Xiaohan saw two little girls again. He didn't know whether they were late or something, but they quietly squeezed out from the crowd of onlookers and sat on tiptoes next to Li Chunhua.

This time, no one said anything.

After watching for about half an hour, Patriarch Li walked up to Li Xiaohan and said quietly, "Xiaohan, come with me."

The two came to the ancestral hall. Guessing that the people next to them could not hear clearly, the leader of the Li clan asked, "Xiaohan, what do you think about Chunhua?"

It seems to Patriarch Li that Li Chunhua not only represents herself, but also a hole, which can be torn open and everything inside can be seen. As for Li Chunhua's matter, Li Xiaohan intervened, so the clan naturally wanted to ask Li Xiaohan's thoughts first.

"Not much. I do what I can do, and she does what she wants." Li Xiaohan didn't show anything at the moment, but Patriarch Li knew that Li Xiaohan supported Li Chunhua.

Sighing softly, Patriarch Li Fang said, "I know you can't understand these things, but Li Chunhua's family is really in trouble. Her mother was not in good health before, and her brother is still young, which is really annoying. . Some time ago, her mother fell ill again, and most of the work at home fell on her, a little girl. She is a smart girl, but she really can't do without her at home."

In fact, what Patriarch Li didn't say was that there was a big age difference between Li Chunhua and her brother. It was because of her mother's poor health and several pregnancies that her brother got a baby egg.

Unfortunately, it is difficult to explain these things clearly to a young girl like Li Xiaohan.

"Besides, Chunhua can learn from you in the morning. He who works in the fields can just let his brother go. But it's really inconvenient to read and learn arithmetic."

Patriarch Li was also in a dilemma. Li Xiaohan's appearance today was obviously to support Li Chunhua, but in the blink of an eye, Li Chunhua's father found him. There are also other people in the clan who have opinions and always feel that it is hindering other people.

"It turns out that the clan knew that Chunhua's family was in trouble, and the solution was not to help them come out, but to push her back."

What is cooler than the night is Li Xiaohan's voice at this moment.

The stabbing made the clan leader speechless for a long time.

However, Li Xiaohan didn't seem to have to wait for the clan leader's reply. After speaking, she left first.

The night was dim, and the swaying firelight in the distance made the animals on the eaves of the ancestral hall bared their teeth and claws, and there were many shadows, as if ghosts and gods were haunting and laughing.

Li Xiaohan's thin back walked farther and farther in the dim night, leaving only the clan leader still standing motionless. After a while, several clan elders came out from the ancestral hall.

Several old men looked at each other in silence. After a long time, the patriarch said in a hoarse voice, "It's me, the patriarch, who is incompetent."

"We old men, after living for decades, can't understand as well as a child." The third uncle sighed.

Li Xiaohan returned to the elementary school and stood quietly without saying a word.

However, I don't know why, but this figure, which is not very strong, actually brings a lot of strength to people. The girl sitting inside feels like she has support.

When the time came, Mr. Li collected his books and left the class slowly. Both those who were studying and those who were watching the excitement happily held up torches and dispersed.

Early the next morning, Li Xiaohan's study class went on normally. This time, in addition to the girls from the past, there are also a large group of brothers from the clan.

Li Xiaohan didn't object, and he didn't treat him differently. Anyway, he looked neither very enthusiastic nor very cold, but everyone held a breath and didn't dare to make a mistake - I don't know why, but I feel that Li Xiaohan looks very majestic at this moment.

"Today, we are going to learn how to identify a plant. Find the medicinal materials we need from the plant." Li Xiaohan said flatly, sitting in front of a pile of weeds and shrubs.

These were brought back by Li Xiandong and others from the mountains. There are many unfamiliar things in the mountains. With secret thoughts, many times, if Li Xiandong and others do not recognize a certain plant in the mountains, they will bring it back whole for Li Xiaohan and Doctor Zhang to identify it, hoping to find it again. A kind of Panax notoginseng or Eucommia ulmoides.

Unfortunately, most of the final identification results were useless weeds. Of course, there were a few medicinal materials that grew wild, such as Daqingye, honeysuckle, etc., but they were not very valuable.

However, even if they are not valuable, the villagers still cherish them very much. Once they are confirmed to be medicinal materials, they must be carefully kept and never touch them.

"In general, plants have six parts: roots, stems, leaves, flowers, fruits, and seeds. Everyone looks at one plant. This plant is Daqingye. It is generally used for wind and cold medicine. Just look at its name and you will know that it has big leaves and deep roots. Pale yellow flowers bloom after March, and short round siliques appear after April. You will understand the basic characteristics by looking at them."

"The roots and leaves of Daqingye can be used as medicine to treat heat, poison, jaundice, laryngeal numbness, and erysipelas."

…

The busy days passed quickly, and in the blink of an eye, ten days passed, and it was time to select people for the Pingshan Village Workshop.

"Why is it that the content this time is very similar to the content we study on weekdays? Isn't this? Isn't this a bit unfair?" Someone in the crowd said in a low voice with a bit of disbelief. Why, in the past, ethnic studies What I learned there seems to be of no use.

"Anyone with a discerning eye can tell at a glance that this small school is set up for the purpose of selecting people for the workshop. Just like this, I don't bother to study on weekdays, and just rely on what I learned in the previous ten years. Like this The workshop cannot afford people. The purpose of Gongfang Pharmaceutical is to select people who are smart, hard-working and diligent, and people who are usually quick and agile. This is the kind of person we want." Li Xiaohan also Without looking at who it was, he just said to the front.

So, the person who questioned blushed and shut his mouth.

Apart from this small conflict, there was no other doubt in the selection. The selection was done on the spot and the quota was decided on the spot. This time, five more girls were chosen.

But Pear Blossom, who had been crying before, finally got what she wanted this time and burst into tears again.

"Sister Xiaohan, I have chosen." Li Chunhua, on the other hand, remained tense and did not cry. She just ran up to Li Xiaohan inadvertently and said as if she was swearing an oath.

Li Xiaohan glanced at her tense fists from the corner of his eyes, looked at her trying to remain calm, and smiled slightly, "Congratulations, you are doing well."

Although Li Chunhua was not very good at identifying medicinal materials at the first level, she was very efficient at the later work. All in all, she got a spot in the end.

"If you join the workshop, what will you do at home?" Li Xiao asked again. The workshop works during the day and the hours are too long. You can no longer take a three-year-old baby with you.

"The patriarch took the lead for me before. When I entered the workshop, he entrusted my brother to my neighbor, Sister-in-law Zheng. Eighty cents were deducted from my wages every month to Sister-in-law Zheng." Li Chunhua said with a smile. .

She had been worried before, what would happen to her brother even if she passed the exam. Unexpectedly, the clan leader helped solve the problem later. Without worries, she could concentrate more.

There are two hundred coins in the workshop every month, and eighty coins are given to Sister-in-law Zheng. There is still one hundred and twenty coins left, which can be used to prepare medicine for her mother and do many things.

As if all of a sudden, the sky opened and the sun came out.

"That's good. You work hard." Li Xiaohan nodded. This is indeed the best way now. "In the future, when you become more proficient, your salary can be increased. What you learn will always follow you. Yes, this is your biggest gain. Don't lose your heart in learning."

Li Xiaohan said this because she was afraid that all her last one hundred and twenty cents would have to be spent at home, and very few of them would be left in Li Chunhua's hands.

However, even if all the money is spent, if you can take away your skills, it will be a long-term gain.

The matter in Li Chunhua's family was settled smoothly in this way. Many clever tribesmen suddenly discovered a way - if the men in the family really can't pass the exam, it would be good for the girls in the family to pass the exam, and they can earn money back. Who can't do the job?

The personnel were in place, and after a few days of practice with experienced hands, the goods from the Jiangnan Chamber of Commerce arrived.

"Xiaohan, you said you improved the technology this time, filtering impurities and then distilling them at low temperature. What should I do with the filtered garlic residue? Have you dumped it all?"

These garlic residues are thin and abundant, and the smell is quite strong. It was fine before, but now there are more and more, and it is really difficult to handle.

"...After drying, use it to feed the chickens." Li Xiaohan stopped, and after thinking for a moment, she finally remembered what had flashed in her mind before.

Although the allicin in the residue has been extracted once, there must still be residues using this crude purification method. After drying for a while, the alcohol will evaporate to the point that it will not cause alcohol poisoning.

"Ah... do you want to feed the chickens?"

Isn't this a miracle medicine? Although it is the dregs of a miracle medicine, it looks too down-to-earth.

"You can feed pigs, fish, or cows. You just have to dry everything." Li Xiaohan affirmed.

Allicin has the functions of disinfection, sterilization, and disease prevention in later generations. Appropriate use of allicin can effectively improve the survival rate of animals, increase appetite, promote growth, and even better, it can make the taste of chicken change. More fragrant.

It is really a good helper for the majority of farmers.

Don't waste such good things.

"Then... can that person eat it?" The visitor looked at Li Xiaohan's face as if it was a good thing and couldn't help but ask.

"You're not sick or in pain, so why are you taking medicine?" Li Xiaohan asked puzzledly, "And the smell is not good either."

If drug resistance develops, it will be even more difficult.

"That's true. Then I'll go." said the visitor

"Leave some for me, my mother raised some chickens." Wang finally realized her wish to raise a few chickens at home this year. She thinks that by the end of the year, they will turn into big hens and eventually make their way to the dinner plate. above.

"OK."

These livestock are all cheap.

=== Chapter === 168

In May, in Jiangnan, the flowers are in full bloom and the sun is bright but not dazzling. It is a most beautiful time of the year.

The impact of the war in the North reaches here, like the last ripples of a stone falling on a lake. It has no impact and is not worth caring about. Nowadays, the most ominous thing rumored privately in Jiangnan is the magic medicine from Dingcheng - allicin.

"I heard it's time to pick up allicin from the Su family again."

The person who can sit in the private room of Jiangnan Zhaixing Tower and drink tea leisurely is already the most wealthy person in the eyes of the common people. However, the voice coming from the private room is extremely inconsistent with the status of the rich and full of resentment. .

"No, I don't know how many of these good things will come back to our Jiangnan this time."

The person who replied was also full of resentment and could not hide it.

"You said it's a good thing. It's our turn to be sent directly to the capital." The person who spoke earlier put down the tea cup angrily, feeling extremely unfair.

"Why do you care so much about this thing?" A confused voice interjected, "I heard that this medicine is most effective for post-traumatic fever. We don't need it here, so we didn't bring it back."

"That's all for fools like us!"

The two people who had spoken earlier immediately shouted loudly, filled with anger like water pouring into an oil pan, rising to 70% heat and boiling, "That was all news earlier. If it was confirmed this morning , Garlicin is not only effective in treating post-injury fever, but also in treating acute diarrhea, persistent cough, gastrointestinal ulcer, etc. Moreover, after continuous use, people feel very good, with clear ears, eyesight, and appetite. Big vibration."

"No, if you put it this way, it's not a panacea."

"It's almost a magic medicine. This allicin is used in conjunction with the original medication, and the medicine is surprisingly effective. Do you know the tranquility in the capital? The eighty-year-old man is already there. I didn't know what it was originally. I had diarrhea and vomiting, and I was about to meet the late emperor. I was given a few doses of garlic by the doctor of Renhetang in Beijing. Haha, I saved my life from King Yama. Now I can eat and drink. , from time to time the maid and the boy would push her out to bask in the sun and talk, I don't know how much I enjoyed it, and it's not surprising that I can live another three to five to seven years."

"Yes, my brother-in-law's brother-in-law's uncle's brother-in-law provides clothes to the Anning Marquis. I heard that now the Marquis of Anning cannot do without this garlic every day. If he doesn't eat it for a day, his meals will not taste good. ."

"No, isn't this disease cured? Why are you still taking it?"

"Don't you know this? It is said that this medicine is good for the body and is particularly good for all parts of the body. It is so good that the doctor does not allow it to be taken often, saying that once you get used to it, you will no longer be able to take it. I don't know how to use medicine. But Anning Hou is different. Rumor has it that the old man said at that time that he had already stepped into the gate of hell, so why should he use medicine? Think about using medicine in the future. You may not be able to see it tomorrow, but you must enjoy it now."

"I heard it was April when Mr. An Ninghou fell ill, right? Now it's May."

"No, it's May. The old man is getting healthier and better every day. Nowadays, all the old ladies and ancestors in the capital are crazy about this. Allicin can be said to be a medicine. Hard to find."

After hearing the benefits, the people who were ignorant of the delay in the news burst out in anger, "No, such a good thing, why are you still fooling us, saying that it is only effective for the trauma of Nao Shizi? Isn't this looking down on us and fooling us? ."

"Aren't you just looking down on us? Who are you? How can you compare with the wealthy people in the capital?"

"No, we are not as good as the people in the capital, but we can't cause trouble to Mr. Su. In terms of seniority, Su Yi has to call my father uncle. Now my father's health is getting worse. Now, I want to ask him how his nephew behaves. Let's go!"

After saying that, this man really slammed the door and walked out. He really complied with the sentence, a biting dog does not bark. This man looked so ignorant before. He really understood that he would directly find someone to cause trouble. Without cowardice.

The remaining people looked at each other in confusion, their eyes getting brighter and brighter, and suddenly they all stood up and followed them - who wouldn't want life-saving medicine? The Su family was not as powerful as before, so they could only complain secretly, like... Now there is someone taking the lead, and this person's identity can still be suppressed, so why are you waiting and joining in the fun? I don't believe that Mr. Su can control the people's support.

This group of people went to the Su Mansion in a mighty and mighty manner, and some people who had heard of the news joined in. The team was huge and unstoppable. Unfortunately, they encountered a sliding iron board in the Su Mansion.

"Our master is not at home. He has gone out to discuss business." The steward of the Su Mansion came out and said with a sad face.

"What, where did he go to discuss business?"

"Well, how can a villain know where the master goes to discuss business?" The butler's face became even more bitter.

Ah, the group of people who came today are not following common sense. They should not come quietly, want to ask for medicine quietly, but can't see the master, and then leave a name note with resentment. Leaving? Why does this wave seem to be coming for a fight?

"He must be hiding. Haha, that's okay. Mr. Su is not here, and Master Su is here. It doesn't matter if the father is not here to look for his son."

"Our eldest young master has also gone out to do business." The housekeeper did not wait for the visitor to continue asking, and answered himself, "The second young master has also gone out, and the third young master has also gone out. Our wife, go back to her parents' home. "

"...No, Su Yi's family ran away, right?"

"Why do you say that? The weather is good today and it is the time to discuss business. It is normal for the master and young master to be busy every day."

"I believed your ghost." Everyone outside the door was indignant, but they were helpless. After all, Su Mansion looked like only servants were there. If they forced their way in, they would be jailed for breaking in.

However, when the housekeeper said that the whole family would go out, everyone outside the door did not believe it. "We will stay here. If you have the ability, the young men in your family will never come out."

"Masters and young masters, please invite me." Su Mansion's housekeeper lowered his eyebrows and closed the door.

This attitude actually aroused doubts among everyone outside the door: Could it be that the head of the Su family is really not here?

In fact, some of their guesses were right. Master Su and Young Master Su were indeed not here, but the old lady and the young lady were still there.

"Madam, another group of people came outside the door. They also said they would gather around and wait for the master and the young master to come out."

"Just let them wait," the lady said casually.

I saw the madam, the young madam, and two old aunts sitting at a table. The madam stretched out her wrist and touched a leaf card. The bright green jade bracelet on her wrist glowed with a soft light, only the The wrist is so white and plump, so rich and noble.

What's even more luxurious is that a complete set of jadeite of this quality is now adorning the lady's body.

"You said we weren't at home, right?" The lady thought for a while and asked again.

"As I said, Madam and Young Madam took my aunt back to their parents' home." Butler Su said.

"That's it, step back." The lady waved her hand.

"If you ask me, Mom is smarter. As soon as dad and the others leave, she immediately pretends to go back to her parents' house. Otherwise, if the old man leaves and leaves a mess for us, it will be annoying to death." Called mother. The one who flatters is naturally the young lady.

I saw that the young lady also had a set of pearl-white jade tiaras on her head, which was slightly less rich and noble than the old lady's set of emeralds, but younger and more gorgeous.

"No, the master's backyard is managed by the wife's wisdom. We brainless people can only follow the wife." The two aunts also quickly expressed their loyalty.

"Hey, this man... forget it, they are busy with their business, we will definitely support them." The lady gently raised her hand to touch the jade hairpin in her hair, and said cheerfully.

When men make money, they also benefit. No, from wife to concubine, everything is equipped. Of course, the bulk of it is on the wife, and what she wears is just a small item. Thinking of the gold, silver and jewelry in the warehouse and the numbers flowing in from the accounts, Mrs. Su was so happy that she couldn't hold back her joy.

I just feel bored hiding at home, so I can only play "leaf cards" with my daughter-in-law and aunt.

However, no matter how boring it is, it is better than going back to my parents' home. Going back to my parents' home is also unclean. My father, mother, brothers, and sisters all come here with the idea of taking medicine. Where do they have so many medicines? They do this to make money and open doors. When the door and the road are open, wealth will naturally come rolling in.

"Come on, come on, play cards, play cards.".

On the desk, the jade bracelets, gold chains, and rings on the four pairs of hands were shining with all kinds of luxurious lights. It was true that the men made more money, and their wives and concubines no longer fought.

The mistress of the Su family is hiding at home playing leaf cards, so where is the master of the Su family?

The four masters of the Su family, Master Su and the second young master are frantically building relationships in the capital - the second one is almost the same age. If they take this opportunity to form an in-law, then the Su family's family will be able to Mention it.

However, the second young master Su's marriage is not the most important thing. The most important thing is that the goods are not enough, so Mr. Su personally takes the third young master Su to Dingcheng to rush for the goods.

"Didn't I just send you a batch?" Li Xiaohan said with a frown.

"This is still a drop in the bucket, it's not enough." Master Su frowned and said in a very embarrassed tone, "How about Miss Su, if you send more people, we can raise the price."

When doing business at this level, it is rare for their buyers to take the initiative to raise prices.

"We can't keep up with the production capacity, so there's really nothing we can do about it. Besides, summer wheat is about to be harvested, and peppers are also being picked. It's really too busy."

What's even rarer is that you can't even buy it with an active price increase .

"Master Li, there are tenant farmers and helpers. Besides, your village can make more money by focusing on making garlic, so why bother about wheat, rice, and pepper." Mr. Su advised.

"No, we farmers must not lose our roots." Li Xiaohan refused bluntly, "Let's do this, I can give you an extra quarter of the goods next time, so you can save some money. I heard that you take that medicine every day, please advise, this medicine is medicine after all and cannot be taken every day."

"Okay." It would be nice to have a quarter, Mr. Su's calculations were clear in his mind, and he had already allocated the extra weight immediately - he had to send some back to his hometown in Jiangnan. , the heads of the Chamber of Commerce need to be appeased, otherwise my wife will send a letter, and my hometown will be ripped off. The boss in the capital sent someone to tell me that several princes said they wanted to buy medicine. Don't offend anyone...

As for what Li Xiaohan said about not eating it every day, "I can't persuade you, but don't worry, those wealthy families have their doctors watching over them, so there won't be any problems. Mr. Li, you are too Be careful, the efficacy of this medicine has been verified by many doctors."

Li Xiaohan was speechless, but it cannot stand the test. In addition to being a broad-spectrum bactericidal drug, allicin also has good effects on various chronic diseases of the digestive system. It can also lower blood pressure, promote digestion, and delay aging. The effect is that these wealthy people eat well, move less, and are older. They all have these problems to some extent. It is not like a blind cat encountering a dead mouse.

However, the effect of the medicine in the previous life was not so obvious. Could it be that a body that has never used antibiotics has miraculous effects once it is used?

Li Xiaohan also couldn't figure it out.

Seeing Li Xiaohan frowning and thinking, Master Su and Young Master Su did not dare to interrupt Li Xiaohan, so they could only pick up the teacup and drink tea.

"Girl, Gang Leader Ye is here." Aunt He came in and whispered.

Spring started, the war situation stabilized, and Aunt He began to look for a job again. Li Xiaohan thought that it was better to be experienced than to make a living, and his family really needed manpower, so he asked Aunt He to come back. Of course Aunt He was very happy. She immediately packed up the parcel and came back to take care of the details of the Li family.

"Master Li has a guest, so I'll take my leave first." Hearing that Li Xiaohan had a guest, Mr. Su and his son were very sensible and took their leave.

"I'll see Master Su off." The three of them walked to the door together and happened to meet the waiting leader of the Qing Gang.

"Master Su."

'Leader of Gang Ye. "

Naturally, these two people knew each other, but during this greeting, sparks flew secretly. After all, for confidentiality and safety, Li Xiaohan's medicine was only supplied to Renhetang, Qinggang, and Jiangnan Chamber of Commerce in addition to the military. These three places.

This is of course excellent, and Mr. Su and others have reaped all the benefits from this.

However, there are also disadvantages. Renhetang is a medicine hall. It only treats diseases and prescribes medicine. The Qinggang and Mr. Su use this medicine to establish relationships and compete for territory, so some conflicts are inevitable. However, the collision was not big. After all, Mr. Su wanted to run to the capital. The Green Gang had many wild roads. It was said that even the Southern Army along the coast was about to get through.

Generally speaking, it was just a small conflict, and knowing that Li Xiaohan didn't want them to fall out, so as not to leave one family alone, the two of them were very restrained.

Watching Li Xiaohan and the Green Gang leader enter the house, Master Su and Young Master Su got on the carriage.

Young Master Su San, who had been mute along the way, finally had a place to show off, "Dad, are we leaving like this?"

"Otherwise? What else do you want?" Master Su said.

"Oh. I didn't think about anything." Young Master Su San said weakly.

Why did his father bring him over for such a simple transaction? Alas, there was no challenge. He still wanted to visit the capital. Now many princes in the capital have become brothers with him.

Or maybe his father asked him to do it alone. Miss Li was very trustworthy in the deal with Dingcheng, so he could do it alone.

Now his father has to take him with him, and he doesn't know why.

"What do you look like like this? Why didn't you say a word just now? Aren't you very talkative in the past? Also, why don't you wear the clothes in the moonlight? You don't know what kind of clothes you wear best? Handsome?!"

"Dad, how can I get in the way of talking to Mr. Li? Besides, the clothes you wear are different."

"What's different? I used to see you slutty, but now I want you to be slutty, and you're not slutty." In the narrow carriage, Mr. Su suddenly stood up and beat his son violently.

"Dad, dad, this is business, what's the point of wearing such handsome clothes?"

"It's no use. If you dress more handsomely, maybe Miss Li will be happier and our supply will increase. Your father and I will no longer secretly compete with that Qing gang leader." Su The master said angrily.

Young Master Su San's eyes were so wide open that he didn't even dare to resist. He turned around and looked at his father as if he had seen a ghost. He said in disbelief, "Dad, what are you planning? You're not Well, you're not..."

Young Master Su San didn't dare to say it.

"Nothing. You are the most handsome person in our family. Otherwise, why would I take you with me all the time instead of your second brother?" Mr. Su is indeed an old fox for many years. He is bold, wild, and has deep plans - I heard that Li The girl wants to find a husband.

"Dad, do you still think that I am your son?" Young Master Su San shouted angrily, tears about to flow out, "Have you never seen Mr. Zhang and Miss Li together? "

"You literally want my life!"

=== Chapter === 169

In today's world, there is no longer even the affection between father and son.

Ever since Master Su San learned about his father's plan, he was so angry that he didn't even want to say anything.

There are two people, Mr. Zhang and Miss Li, who he can provoke. Let's not talk about whether Mr. Zhang can spare him. For now, if Ms. Li sees his father's thoughts, they can still provoke him. Well done.

Really, why do you think Miss Li can like him?

Without making good money, he had to send this poor and innocent white rabbit to two giant meat-eating beasts - yes, Young Master Su San was very sure that neither of them were fuel-efficient lamps.

His father is really old and confused.

Returning to Dingcheng Inn angrily, Young Master Su San didn't even eat lunch. He immediately wrote a letter to complain to his mother - mainly to ask his mother to persuade his father not to be too arrogant. It doesn't matter if you drift off, but it won't be good if you bring trouble to the whole family.

Mr. Su looked at his third son hiding in the room angrily and didn't take it seriously - young people are still too naive. What's wrong with taking a risk on something that has great benefits? If you fail, you won't lose your life. At most, it's like a toad trying to eat the goose meat. If you succeed, it will be the worst thing in the world. What a good deal .

Really, if it weren't for the sake of looking after his own son, I would still be able to plan for him with such painstaking efforts. Don't know good people's hearts.

Haha, I haven't had lunch yet, Master Su doesn't care at all, he will eat when he is hungry.

Mr. Su didn't expect to complain, but Mr. Su was Young Master Su's father after all, so he guessed something right: he was angry and hurriedly wrote the letter, Young Master Su was hungry.

It's a pity that for the sake of safety, Mr. Su stayed in an inn in Dingcheng exclusively for merchants. It was not a luxury, but it was safe. Although the food was available, it was quite satisfactory.

After thinking about it, Young Master Su San decided not to aggrieve himself, but to have a good meal at the largest restaurant in Dingcheng. It would be best to spend all his father's money.

Of course, this is impossible at the moment. His father is relying on allicin to gain more limelight and money is pouring in. That's all, he can spend as much as he can.

"Whatever the most expensive and best dishes you have here, they are all served to me." When they arrived at Tongfu Restaurant, Young Master Su San said with great wealth. He had previously remembered the sweet pepper dishes from this restaurant, which he liked quite well.

"Well, sir, you are really lucky. Today we have sweet-scented osmanthus fish sticks, velvet chicken, roasted suckling pig, eight-treasure duck, jade bamboo shoots and pepper leaves..."

"Okay, let's do these first." Although he was angry, Master Su San was not a wasteful person.

I ate some candied fruit as an appetizer out of boredom. About a quarter of an hour later, the main meal slowly began to be served.

"Hey, your fish is pretty good. It doesn't have the fishy smell, but it still retains the freshness and tenderness of the fish. It's really wonderful when combined with the sweet-scented osmanthus." Young Master Su San praised it loudly while picking up the fish with chopsticks and eating it. He came from the land of fish and rice in the south of the Yangtze River and had eaten hundreds of fish. He thought that there were no good fish in the northwest of Dingcheng, but it was beyond his expectation.

"Your Majesty, you have a good tongue." The waiter was very happy to be praised. Looking at Master Su San's gorgeous clothes, he explained with a wink, "This is the fish we ordered from Pingshan Village."

Young Master Su San frowned. He had just come out of Pingshan Village. Apart from the medicine, he had never heard that the fish there was very famous. Could it be that this restaurant wanted to defraud him, a foreign businessman, out of this false reputation?

The waiter had sharp eyes. When he saw this, he explained in a low voice, "The fish and various livestock in Pingshan Village grew up by eating the allicin residue. They grew fast, tasted good, were tender and tender. Fragrant. If we hadn't had an old relationship with Miss Li at Tongfu Restaurant, we wouldn't have been able to grab all kinds of livestock from their village."

And such things?

Young Master Su San opened his eyes wide. People in Pingshan Village actually use the allicin that they are grabbing for life and death to feed fish, chickens and pigs. Could this mean that humans are really inferior to chickens, pigs and fish?

"No, I've also heard that allicin is very precious. How can it be used to feed fish? Yao Fu'er 2752 Bar Chair." Master Su San still had questions.

"It's medicine dregs, medicine dregs. Allicin is not cheap in our city, so it definitely can't be used to feed fish, chickens, and pigs." The waiter explained, "But the medicine dregs still have some medicinal properties. . Sir, you understand."

Young Master Su San was so shocked that he felt dizzy. Thinking about the medicine dregs, it was indeed possible. Refining medicine naturally contains medicine dregs. The goods they got were all yellowish liquids. I think the medicine dregs were used for this purpose. .

Really, really, speechless.

When the velvet chicken and the roasted suckling pig arrived, Master Su San slowly tasted them with awe, as if this was not an ordinary chicken or an ordinary roasted suckling pig, but a famous food. Chickens and pigs grown with precious medicinal materials are the same as those ginseng chickens and ginseng pigs.

"Is this the chicken ordered by Pingshan Village?"

"Yes." The waiter puffed his chest slightly proudly.

"Is this also a suckling pig from Pingshan Village?"

"Yes. That's right." The waiter said with a smile.

"Sure enough, the meat is tender and tender, with endless aftertaste." Master Su San received a positive reply and shook his head in admiration. He felt that the meat he had just eaten was very fragrant.

If Li Xiaohan knew about it, he would have to say a few words, but it was just because people in ancient times had difficulty eating enough, and livestock naturally ate less, so they grew thinner. Livestock fed with garlic residue will have a better appetite and grow faster, and the meat will be much fatter and more tender. These people have never eaten it. To say that the meat is fragrant, it may be a little bit fragrant, but the impact is actually not much.

People think that allicin is magical and think too much about it, which psychologically affects their taste.

This is what Li Xiaohan said to the people in the clan. Unfortunately, no one believed her statement, including Young Master Su San, who came from Pingshan Village to Dingcheng, the waiter in the shop, and came from Jiangnan.

Picking up another piece of suckling pig from Pingshan Village and tasting it, Young Master Su San suddenly had an idea, "Boy, which family ordered your chicken, pig, and fish from?"

He just came out of Miss Li's house. He can be sure that Miss Li's house does not raise pigs. The smell of pig raising can't be overcome easily. It is estimated that they do not raise fish. The Li family has a small population and no time. They can only raise a few chickens, but The Li family didn't even have enough chicken to eat.

"Sir, how can I tell you this!" the waiter said sternly. Why, after eating it, I still want to dig into their supply.

"Boy, you misunderstood. You see, I am a businessman who came from far away. I can still fight for business with you all the way. How can I luck with this chicken, pig and fish? I'm just curious. I want to I just want to ask about this new thing." Young Master Su San explained with a smile.

She is worthy of the beauty that has been given the important task by Mr. Su. When she smiles at this moment, she really looks rich, kind and handsome.

The waiter didn't know whether he was dazzled by the smile or the silver-hunting fan who was handed over. He hesitated for a moment and said, "Sir, if you are really interested, get up earlier and go to the West Market. The people in Pingshan Village now raise a lot of livestock. They sell up to three animals at the market every day to attract people. You can go and take a look. The stalls of the Li family are all placed together, and everyone has them. It doesn't matter, they're all fed the same dregs of medicine."

"Okay, I understand."

"Young man, please step aside. Please use it with your courtesy, sir." The waiter secretly estimated the weight of the money in his hand. It was so generous. You can't blame him for this. He didn't say anything to keep it secret.

Master Su San was in a better mood after getting the news he wanted, and his food tasted particularly delicious. After eating, I went directly to the West Market without waiting for tomorrow.

He didn't believe in the three-piece limit. In this world, there were things that you couldn't buy at a higher price. The reason why you couldn't buy them was because the price wasn't high enough - except for Miss Li's allicin.

Noon the next day.

Mr. Su found that his son was still having a temper and had not seen anyone for most of the morning.

"Where is the third young master?" Mr. Su asked disdainfully at how old he was, but he still thought he was a child. He was just afraid that his son would look ugly after being hungry for a long time.

"Back to the master, the third young master bought a few pigs and cages of chickens early in the morning and hurried to the capital." Chang Sui, who had followed him, lowered his head and replied.

"What? You went to the capital? How many pigs and cages of chickens did you bring with you?" For a moment, Master Su felt that he couldn't believe his ears.

"Yes, the third young master also left a letter for you, master." Chang Sui said.

Mr. Su opened the letter angrily, and there were only two scrawled words: I wrote to tell my mother. I'm going to find my eldest brother.

…It's all because I was only focused on making money and didn't spank my son less.

Young Master Su San didn't care about his father, so he hurriedly set off on the road with a few pigs and cages of chickens, for fear of being caught by his father.

As for the chickens and pigs, he used money to break open the people of Pingshan Village yesterday afternoon. They were specially brought to him this morning. They did not enter the city gate. He waited directly at the city gate. After the handover, we were on our way immediately. As for how to transport it, hey, it's better to throw money at people. It's his father's money anyway.

A group of people carried these noble pigs and chickens. No matter how much money they spent, they could not help but be a little rustic and tainted with flavor. So, a few days later, Master Su and Master Su in the capital received the order. The younger brother with a dusty face and an indescribable taste.

"Third brother, why are you like this? What kind of image do you have? You want to eat pigs and chickens, but you don't have enough to eat. You have to travel thousands of miles to deliver them." Young Master Su said earnestly, almost not saying that he My brother is crazy .

"Brother, these are chickens and pigs that I bought specially from the Li family in Pingshan Village. They were grown on garlic." Young Master Su San puffed up his chest and said, he had suffered so many hardships along the way. He rolled his eyes, overtly or covertly, but he held it back for fear of being robbed. Now, it's finally time to speak out the truth with pride.

"Did you grow up eating allicin?" Sure enough, Young Master Su's eyes widened in surprise.

"Allicin medicine residue, medicine residue, but the taste is indeed different, fragrant and tender. I just asked the kitchen to kill a chicken, you can try it later."

"Oh, why did you kill it? You just brought a few chickens here." Young Master Su beat his feet and chest, feeling regretful. How could he eat such good things? He would definitely have a big feast. Guests may give it away for maximum use.

"Brother, you can't eat it. I've been fed ordinary food for several days along the way. I don't know if the taste has changed. Also, you have to try it. You are not sure about this thing. How can you sell it? . We have to be confident." Young Master Su San said seriously.

"That's the truth. I was confused for a moment." Young Master Su didn't expect that his third brother would mature so quickly. "You are indeed a good third brother, you reminded me."

Young Master Su San curled his lips secretly, no, he just felt that after working so hard to get here, he would have to eat a chicken.

When the third young master Su was cleansed and transformed back into the handsome rich boy, and the second young master Su also came back, the three brothers divided up a chicken.

The best ingredients often only require the most common cooking methods, so this one from the Su family is stewed chicken soup.

"Big brother and second brother, the chicken legs are mine. I worked so hard to transport them here."

"Brother, you must have eaten a lot in Dingcheng. Give these two chicken legs to your brothers."

"No, our father is a miser. He only wants to make money in the inn. I just had one meal and came to Beijing immediately."

"Dad loves you the most. He is willing to take you to Dingcheng. You will have a chance next time."

Speaking of this, Mr. Su San became sad and angry. The eldest and second brothers had no idea what he was carrying. In a fit of anger, he gave up his image and took action directly.

…

After eating this chicken, the three brothers finally calmed down.

"Thinking about it carefully, it seems to be more tender and fragrant, but it doesn't have a particularly outstanding effect." The simple second young master Su said.

"It doesn't need any special effect. As long as it is a chicken raised on allicin, it is a good chicken." Young Master Su drank a cup of tea, "Come on, we have to make a list and invite the nobles from the capital. Come to our house for a banquet."

The banquet in the Su family was held very quickly, because they were afraid that the chickens and pigs would become thin after eating ordinary food for a few more days. So, after the banquet was held for three consecutive days, the popular saying in the capital became.

"Have you tried the garlic vegetarian chicken yet?"

"I've tried it, and I also tried the garlic pig. It's really tender and fragrant."

"It's just a little weird. Why does this beast eat the same food as humans?"

"Hey, what's this? I heard that during the chaos of the previous dynasty, there was a kind of chicken called Babao Royal Chicken. It was made from eight ingredients: ginseng, velvet antler, Ganoderma lucidum, bird's nest, cordyceps, wolfberry, red dates and white fungus, dried in the sun, and then ground. Feeding it into powder to chickens is called luxury, but feeding chickens with medicinal dregs is nothing."

"That makes sense, but I don't know how long it will be before I can eat it again."

"It won't be long. If someone likes to eat it, someone will naturally bring it over."

"That's true."

In fact, on the second day of the chicken banquet, the second young master Su had already set off for Dingcheng - but the third young master Su refused to go again.

As soon as the second young master Su arrived in Dingcheng, he immediately met up with his biological father. Only then did Mr. Su know that when he was thinking about how to persuade Miss Su to expand the supply, he actually missed such a way - -Actually, Mr. Su is a bit face-conscious and stingy. He thinks that what he puts in his mouth doesn't matter. He doesn't show off his wealth like fine clothes, nor can he pass it on like gold, silver and jewelry. No matter what he eats, everything ends up being the same. Come out, there is no need to spend this money, it is only because Chang Sui did not find out the news for him.

When Young Master Su arrived, the father and son immediately went to Tongfu Restaurant for a feast. After tasting it, the father and son made a decisive decision to go to Pingshan Village to make purchases. It would be best to monopolize this business.

As a result, Patriarch Li of Pingshan Village received this incredible order. He never thought that the livestock raised at home could be sold at such a price - the price they supplied to Tongfu Restaurant was already very high. It's expensive, but Mr. Su actually doubled the price.

If he hadn't known Mr. Su and knew that Mr. Su was a big businessman from the south of the Yangtze River, Patriarch Li would have almost thought he was a liar.

"Okay, no problem." Patriarch Li responded happily. There's nothing wrong with making money.

The poultry trade in Pingshan Village is in full swing, and the wealthy families in the capital are eagerly waiting. Everyone has almost forgotten that the war is still raging on the Liaodong battlefield.

"Good news, good news, our army has won a great victory, and Western Tartar Beizhou has been defeated and retreated from Liaodong City!"

"Good news, good news, our army has won a great victory, and Western Tartar Beizhou has been defeated and retreated from Liaodong City!"

=== Chapter === 170

"We won, we won."

On an ordinary day at noon, people in Pingshan Village were busy working in the fields. Suddenly, shouts of joy came from the road at the entrance of the village. Someone stood up and took a closer look. It turned out to be villagers who went to the market in the morning, trotting back and smiling happily all the way. shouted to the crowd.

"What won?" A man busy with farm work in the fields by the roadside asked curiously.

"Liaodong, Liaodong, we won. We defeated the Western Tartars and Beizhou. Let's take back Liaodong." The people who were rushing back were panting, but their voices were extremely loud.

"What? Real or fake?" At this moment, people picking peppers, pulling weeds, and applying fertilizer all appeared in the field next to them, asking all kinds of questions.

"It really can't be true anymore, and it absolutely can't be false." The visitor swore loudly, "I saw it all. The fast horse reporting the news at the city gate was waving flags all the way to the palace to report the news."

"That's true. God, this day...this day has finally passed. Hurry, go tell the clan leader that he is in the workshop." Someone said with joy at that moment.

For more than half a year, there were military service and corvee work, and the taxes were a bit heavier. Everyone endured it silently, unable to complain, and did not dare to complain, because they all knew that if Liaodong could not hold on, the next one would happen. It's them. No matter how difficult it is now, it is still better than having the family broken up and everyone dead.

It's good now. Wei won the battle and recaptured Liaodong, so they were considered safe.

A group of people crowded into the workshop with smiles on their faces. Patriarch Li was inspecting the workshop. Li Xiaohan was experimenting with Li Xiandong and the others to see if they could improve the extraction efficiency of allicin. After all, whether it is Qinggang or Mr. Su, Even at Renhetang, they are all pressing for goods.

As for the Panax notoginseng styptic powder, there is no use in urging it. The first batch of Panax notoginseng planted has almost been dug out, and the rest needs to be kept for seeding. The ones planted in the next two years will have to grow longer, at least after this crop of flowers has bloomed, before the medicinal properties are in place, so there is no way to rush them.

The masters and apprentices in the workshop are busy performing their duties. Everyone is very serious and cherish this job. After all, it is not easy to make money working at home, not to mention that it is because of this medicine that they can avoid it. Military service can preserve a family in these troubled times, and that cannot be taken too seriously.

While everyone was working quietly, a loud and complex human voice suddenly came from far to near. There were quite a lot of people listening to the voice - this is very abnormal. You must know that the workshop is the most secluded place in the village. , and then the patriarch also told him not to go there if nothing happened, so he was always very quiet.

Patriarch Li's brows were all wrinkled. He waved his hands and walked out. Sure enough, he saw the leader and a group of people approaching. He didn't know how to be quiet when they came. The patriarch was unhappy and was about to scold them loudly. The people in front of him were still there. Smiling blindly, without fear at all, he spoke loudly: "Clan Chief, Patriarch, our Wei Dynasty won and drove away both Xita and Beizhou."

"What?" The patriarch was shocked.

Is that what he thought of?

"Liaodong, Liaodong won the battle, we won." The visitor affirmed with a smile.

"Real or false? How did you know?" The clan leader asked urgently again and again.

Everyone in the workshop who heard what was said, including Li Xiaohan, Li Xiandong and other master masters, apprentices, and even the winery next door and the Wang family who made chili sauce next to the winery, all ran out—This Spring Episode The chili sauce and other businesses were also very good. Li Xiaohan simply asked Wang to take the lead and moved the sauce-making business here as well.

"There are no more lies. We saw it for real. The officers and soldiers who sent the message waved their flags all the way to Prince Ding's Mansion to report the message. Everyone in the city knows it." The person who came back to report the message said firmly.

"That's great, that's great." The patriarch was so happy that he was pacing on the spot. He was only excited for a moment, and then he realized after a moment, "I have to go to the chief to confirm, I have to go to the chief to confirm. Check here to confirm."

After saying that, he ignored everyone and strode away. Everyone also followed the clan leader back to the village. Of course, they had to tell their relatives and friends as soon as possible about such good news.

When Li Xiaohan saw this, he was about to say something, when suddenly there was an uncontrollable choking sound coming from beside him.

Li Xiaohan looked over and saw an aunt from the village who worked in Wang's chili sauce workshop, squatting on the ground crying.

Before Li Xiaohan could react, the aunt suddenly stood up again, walked over to Mrs. Wang and said, "Sister-in-law, I want to take a rest for a long time today. I have to go back to my parents' house. I...my brother My brother has been drafted into the army, so I have to go home and tell my parents."

"Hey, go ahead. It's okay. I'll find someone to do the work you're doing." Wang responded readily.

After receiving Mrs. Wang's permission, the aunt smiled, wiped away her tears, and walked away, faster and faster. From a distance, she actually started running.

Li Xiaohan thought for a while and said, "Leave a few people to deal with the unfinished things. The other people can leave now. I won't work today."

It is estimated that not many people can calm down and work, so it is better to give them all a holiday.

"Hey." Wang from Fanjiao Fang, Li Xiandong from the workshop, and Li Gui from the wine shop, who were usually the leaders, decided to leave a few people behind to finish the work that had to be done. Work - such as the half-fried chili sauce, half the alcohol steamed over high heat, and the garlic being chopped, the rest will go home first.

About half an hour later, after packing up the last things, Li Xiandong's family of three were walking home. Although no close relatives in the family had been drafted into the military, everyone was extremely happy for such a happy event. .

Just, "Xiaohan, what are you thinking about?"

Wang saw Li Xiaohan looking thoughtful, not unhappy, as if he was thinking about something he didn't understand, so he asked with concern.

"Oh, I was wondering when the army would come back." Li Xiaohan came to his senses and said.

Wang and Li Xiandong were unable to answer this question, but after thinking about it, they were very optimistic, "The battle is over, and we will be back soon. It shouldn't take long."

Yes, the battle is over, you should be back soon, right? Fathers, sons, and brothers who are drafted for military service can all come back soon, right? Many people think so and look forward to it every day.

However, one day passed, two days passed, three days passed... After the initial joy of winning the battle, expectations slowly faded day by day, and finally turned into worry.

Why haven't you come back yet? Why is there no news at all?

More than a month has passed.

"Xiaohan, tell me, when will this man who was drafted as a soldier come back?" Chief Li said in a very embarrassed tone. Seeing that there was no one around, he asked quietly, "Do you have any news? I was almost annoyed by people. Everyone in the village was forced by their mother-in-law to come and ask about their father-in-law and brother-in-law. People from the next village asked openly and covertly. What was outrageous was that the head of the village actually came to ask me. , everyone thinks I can find out."

Patriarch Li asked himself where he had the channels. The only channel he had was Li Xiaohan. He also knew that Li Xiaohan did have some very fast news.

It's just that Patriarch Li also feels that the current situation is a bit strange and feels uneasy.

Li Xiaohan looked at Patriarch Li. She had indeed received a letter from Zhang Fu before. After thinking about it for a moment, Li Xiaohan said what she could, "The prince and General Zheng have reached a consensus that at this moment, we will seize the opportunity to pursue the victory." It is most appropriate for Xita and Beizhou to go back to their hometowns. First, it will teach them a lesson. How can the Wei Dynasty leave easily after they come? Second, it will be winter again soon. If not We were afraid of sparring with Xita and Beizhou, fearing that they would come back after winter. Therefore, the army did not come back directly, but continued to fight."

After all, once the nomadic people have insufficient pasture and cattle and sheep in winter, it is inevitable to go south to plunder. The only way to defeat them is to scare them until there are fewer people and enough cattle and sheep to survive. , so they won't go south.

This is a cruel battle for survival between the two parties. There is no other way except a victory of blood and flesh.

"So it's like this, it's actually like this. No wonder no news has come out." After hearing that it was because of this reason, the patriarch sighed with a complicated face. Logically speaking, this is the most appropriate decision, but emotionally speaking, fighting will kill people. It just makes you worry more about your loved ones.

"I was reorganizing the troops some time ago, so I have been hiding the news. However, I estimate that the army has already set off for the expedition, but the clan leader should not make any big announcements yet. After all, the official announcement has not been made." Li Xiaohan warned.

The patriarch looked at Li Xiaohan speechlessly, paused for a moment and then said, "Then you still tell me?!"

Do you know that it is very uncomfortable for a person to keep a secret alone?

"You can tell Brother Xinhe, Brother Xinhe must also be very concerned about this issue. Brother Xinhe is the most knowledgeable person in our clan, so we must let him know about such important matters." Li Xiaohan faced Patriarch Li and revealed his expression A very innocent smile, seemingly full of trust and dependence.

It always feels weird.

Patriarch Li frowned slightly, but he couldn't think of anything strange.

Moreover, what Li Xiaohan said made sense. As the father of Patriarch Li, he naturally knew that his son paid much attention to the war situation in Liaodong.

I still have to break these things down in detail and tell my son. I must never let my son make the same mistakes again.

Thinking of this, the patriarch had an idea in his mind, "Okay, I understand. This matter will only be kept between us, father and son. You, too, be careful."

"Yes. Of course, besides the clan leader, who else in the clan can have such a broad mind and outstanding foresight? I didn't even tell my parents, for fear that they wouldn't understand and worry." Li Xiaohan patted him gently. A slap in the face of the clan leader.

Sure enough, Patriarch Li felt the heavy responsibility on his shoulders and stood up and said, "Well. I'm leaving first."

"I'll send it to the clan leader."

Having deceived another person who was doing things, Li Xiaohan felt a little relieved.

Sure enough, after this secret conversation, I don't know what Patriarch Li did. The atmosphere in the clan became less anxious and anxious. Everyone went about their work with peace of mind, and even went back to their parents' homes to visit relatives. There are a lot less of them - that is, everyone has increased the number of their own poultry. The most common ones are chickens. It is considered a small number for a family to hatch more than one brood of chicks. Some people have simply raised several more chickens. pig.

In fact, the patriarch just scolded them all, "Ask me, ask so many questions, can I know it?! Or can you know it?! None of them have heads. What can you do if you know it? Can we bring them back or what?! It's better to raise a few more chickens and pigs. When the time comes, whether we take a few chickens back to replenish our health or sell them to help support them, it will be better than what we are doing now. One by one, I have to talk about such things."

Under the patriarch's storm attack, one by one became what Li Xiaohan saw.

Time passed slowly, and the peppers matured piece by piece, turning from green to light red to deep red, and finally they were picked off the branches and turned into bare pieces; the Panax notoginseng flowered and bore fruit, and the fruits were picked again. Seeds came down and sprouts sprouted; the Eucommia ulmoides cuttings in the mountains gradually took root and grew new branches, and the new branches grew new leaves; the white wax insects in Dingcheng made wax flowers and were picked. , made batches of white wax, businessmen came and went... Summer left, autumn came, autumn left its end, and winter quietly came to the world.

The expeditionary army finally returned triumphantly.

"Xiaohan, Xiaohan, have you heard? The army is preparing to return." The clan leader came over and said happily.

Li Xiaohan packed up his things calmly, "Well, we've arrived at Luomapo, and we'll be back soon. I'm going to Fucheng tomorrow."

The clan leader was stunned for a moment. His news was lagging behind again - Luo Mapo, which was almost at the border of Dingcheng.

"What are you doing in Fucheng?"

"I am an official after all. Before the prince was away, everything was simple. Now that the prince has returned to the city with his army, I guess what if Shangguan can't find me? It's better to go back to the city and wait."

"That's the truth," the clan leader nodded repeatedly, "it's better to be cautious in officialdom."

"Yes, I think so too." Li Xiaohan emphasized softly.

=== Chapter === 171

On the day when the army returned to the city, the sky was blue and the sunlight reflected the snow on the mountains in the distance, making it difficult to look directly at them.

Early in the morning, Li Xiaohan followed her unfamiliar Shangguan and colleagues and waited at the East City Gate early in the morning.

Shangguan was quite surprised and agreed when he saw Li Xiaohan coming back. He was surprised because Li Xiaohan was a special official after all. In fact, everyone knew that Li Xiaohan was special. In terms of the importance of connections, Li Xiaohan was much more important than him, Shangguan. In the face of such a big event, if Li Xiaohan can come back and obey the command of his superior, everyone will be able to live with it.

Therefore, Shangguan took Li Xiaohan and a group of colleagues to wait outside the city gate early - all the subordinate officials of Dingwangfu Yamen, except for those with positions such as the busiest etiquette officer at the moment and related people, all gathered together Wait here.

Li Xiaohan glanced out of the corner of his eye and saw that the number of officials subordinate to King Ding was comparable to the number of officials in a provincial government. After all, he was a vassal king in the same place. It was normal for the officials to be the same as those in the provincial government. Or was it because of Ding? The king is a military commander, so many of them are streamlined.

At about the beginning of the 20th century, Li Xiaohan had already seen the figure of the Great Banner raised high in the distance, and then the flag array gradually appeared. The red, blue, black, yellow, and white general flags were painted with the blue dragon, white tiger, red bird, and Xuanwu formation flags. There were green, red, white, black, and yellow contact flags, as well as countless trumpets. At this moment, these flags were flying quietly, and there was no marching team. The solemn and solemn momentum was fully displayed.

Almost another hour passed, almost at the beginning of noon, and the army of neat footsteps was getting closer and closer.

Li Xiaohan lowered his head slightly, but looked up, looking into the quiet and solemn huge team: he saw that the general riding on the horse at the front and wearing mail armor should be King Ding, followed by four similar soldiers. The armor-piercing general, followed by...

It turns out that civil servants also wore light armor.

Li Xiaohan looked at it for a while, then gently lowered his eyes.

The army stayed at the gate of the city for a moment, and the rear of the team stopped and set up camp on the spot. The leader of the team in front continued to ride forward, and the officials who stayed behind followed behind and entered the city.

Officials of Li Xiaohan's level just followed behind and counted the heads to show the importance of the ceremony. After all the things were done and we returned to the government office, it was already almost afternoon.

"Shangguan, what should we do next?" Li Xiaohan was confused, but his two older colleagues had already taken the lead in asking questions.

I'm old, and after struggling for a long time, I really can't stand it anymore. These people are not in high positions and are not in relevant departments. They can only follow the large army and there is nothing to do.

Shangguan thought for a while, then ran to Shangguan's office to ask for instructions, and came back and said, "We can all disperse. Just keep a low profile, there is no way to show off."

"Okay, okay. Got it." Everyone breathed a sigh of relief.

Li Xiaohan followed these two old colleagues out and listened to them muttering with their heads down.

"Just now at the city gate, I think Lord Zhang looked back several times, wondering if something went wrong?"

"No, I think everything is going well. Are you misunderstood? After all, our locations are quite far away, so it's possible that we can't see clearly."

"It's impossible. I saw that I turned around several times. Besides, the doctor at Renhetang looked at my eyes. He said that as I got older, contrary to when I was young, I could see things far away clearly and close things clearly. The place is blurry."

"There is such a thing..."

Li Xiaohan watched the two colleagues in front of him gossiping and getting further and further away, so he turned a corner and turned back to the direction of Gumen Alley.

Early the next morning, except for the faint crowing of chickens in the distance and the occasional early morning noise from the nearby house, most of the people in the city had not yet woken up from their slumber, and the green pine trees had already gently knocked on the door of Li's house.

Old Uncle Zhong quickly opened the door. Li Xiaohan only heard the door creaking, and then low voices rang out.

After thinking about it, Li Xiaohan got up and put on his clothes.

After a while, Old Uncle Zhong's footsteps moved gently to Li Xiaohan's window, stopped, and lowered his voice and said, "Miss Li, Qingsong is here. The second young master asked you to meet at Qingming Alley. No." Do you know if Miss Li is convenient?"

"Ask him to wait, I'll be right away." Li Xiaohan sped up.

In about a quarter of an hour, Li Xiaohan had already put on his clothes, washed them, and went out.

Qingsong was already waiting beside the carriage outside the door, but Qingsong was dressed in a particularly low-key manner, and the carriage was also exceptionally simple and unobtrusive.

Li Xiaohan kept this in mind and got on the carriage.

After walking for half an hour, they arrived at Qingming Alley. Li Xiaohan got out of the car and entered the gate. Zhang Fu was already waiting in front of the court.

We haven't seen him for more than half a year. Zhang Fu has become a little thinner. His whole person seems to have been tempered by the war. His temperament has become purer and colder, like a sword that has been tempered on the battlefield and gradually taken shape.

Li Xiaohan was a little dazed. Is this the Zhang Fu she knew?

Zhang Fu seemed to have this illusion too, and the two looked at each other speechlessly for a while.

The empty house was silent, as if there were only two people left in the world.

After a while, Li Xiaohan smiled and spoke first, "Second Young Master, long time no see."

"Miss Li, long time no see."

Smiling at each other, the two of them walked side by side towards the hall, "I almost thought you wouldn't be able to come back years ago."

"We have to let the soldiers come back to celebrate the New Year." Zhang Fu explained with a smile.

The familiar topic of the New Year brings everyone back to the human world.

They sat down in front of the table on both sides. Old Uncle Zhong and Qing Song left with great discernment, and the kitchen quickly brought breakfast.

"Why don't you have breakfast first?"

"good."

The breakfast in Qingming Alley is still very suitable to Li Xiaohan's taste. Maybe it's because he hasn't eaten it for a long time, or maybe he's hungry, but Li Xiaohan even feels that it's more to his taste than before. I guess Zhang Fu felt the same way. He ate three minutes faster than in memory. He lost the elegance of the noble master in the past and had the smoothness of the army.

After having breakfast quietly, my whole body began to feel warm. The sun also came out. It seemed that the weather was good today.

"Do you have anything to tell me?" Li Xiaohan asked, holding hot goat milk, "You should be able to tell me now."

"I can't hide it from you." Zhang Fu smiled. He had obviously won the battle, but there was bitterness in his eyes. What he said was even more incredible, "After this period of time... you try not to go to the government office and do less work." Show up less."

"What do you mean," Li Xiaohan paused for a while and then asked in confusion, "you want me to slowly do the cutting with Prince Ding's Mansion?"

"Aren't you angry?" Zhang Fu looked over.

"You must have your reasons for saying this. I won't be angry at the beginning." Li Xiaohan's tone was very calm, "But you also know me. I have always hoped for my own destiny. It's in my own hands, so I want to know what happened."

"Yes." Zhang Fu smiled softly in agreement, and then slowly, as if he was lost in memories, he gradually became solemn, "This time to pursue the victory in Western Tartar Beizhou was decided by the prince and General Zheng. Without the consent of the imperial court."

"How could this be?"

Li Xiaohan's usual calmness was broken. In the feudal dynasty, without the king's order, he privately led an army to go on an expedition. He simply treated the king as if he was nothing. In the least case, he was dismissed from office, and in the most serious case, he was punished.

Immediately, Li Xiaohan immediately realized that the decision jointly made by the commanders of the two armies must be that the situation at that time was urgent, "What happened at that time?!"

"After we recaptured Liaodong, Liaodong was almost an empty city. All the armaments, food, and materials had been transported away by Xitar and Beizhou, and the troops of Xitar and Beizhou retreated very quickly." Zhang Fu's The voice fell into deeper memories.

"The prince and General Zheng immediately judged that the battle in Liaodong did not inflict heavy losses on Xita and Beizhou. Instead, relying on the supplies in Liaodong, they could make a comeback immediately after resting. The prince and Mr. Zheng After discussion, the generals all agreed that they should immediately pursue the victory, go deep into the enemy's hinterland, and completely defeat Xita and Beizhou, so that Liaodong can be safe. Otherwise, once the prince and the Chinese army withdraw, Liaodong will be subject to war again. "

At that time, there will no longer be the dispatch of the late emperor's decree, and the treasury does not know whether it can support such a huge urgent march of the Chinese army again. The Wei Dynasty will be more dangerous than now.

"Your Majesty and General Zheng immediately sent an eight-hundred-mile expedited message to the court, hoping that the army would set off immediately." The desolation in Zhang Fu's words was like the cold wind in winter, taking away the little warmth in the chest, and finally became cold. "It took more than ten days to send out ten urgent military reports, but I still couldn't wait for the court's reply."

Li Xiaohan felt despair in his heart: The man on the dragon throne was so indecisive. The opportunity to fight was fleeting, but he could not make a decision for so long. At most, a steadfast king is really not suitable for such troubled times.

"It has been too long to organize the army in place. Xita and Beizhou have almost finished digesting the supplies from Liaodong and are almost ready. If we wait any longer, the weather will get colder and our soldiers, especially the Chinese army, will not adapt. Fighting in the ice and snow, when the court's order comes again, our advantage will be almost exhausted. If we send troops again, we will risk the lives of our soldiers to block this border defense line."

"The prince quietly sent people disguised as a group of Western Tartar skirmishers, attacked a village, and then sent troops to chase. Using this as an excuse, the two armies chased Western Tartar and Beizhou three hundred miles away, and finally the hinterland of Beizhou reached the west Tartar and Beizhou were annihilated."

"After returning to Liaodong, General Zheng immediately submitted a confession document to the court. The court did not reply. It only ordered General Zheng to immediately lead troops back to Beijing to guard the imperial court."

The general who won the battle did not receive a reward, but had to submit a confession document. This is ironic enough. He asked General Zheng to lead his troops back to Beijing immediately because he was afraid that General Zheng was determined to be the king.

"General Zheng has gone back?" Li Xiaohan asked without hope, but still refused to give up.

"Old General Zheng devoted himself to serving the country and was loyal to the late emperor. On the day he received the imperial court's order, he immediately ordered to break camp and return to Beijing."

Li Xiaohan thought about the history he had read, and came to the conclusion that General Zheng was in danger. A king who relies on civil servants to rule the world will not treat his generals well.

"What does the prince think?" The most important thing now is the future. King Ding has long been dissatisfied, and now it is probably time to make a decision.

"Your Majesty needs time. When the Chinese army did not come, we defended Liaodong alone and suffered a lot of casualties. Later, the best opportunity was delayed, and the army had to march quickly to catch up with the Western Tartar North Prefecture. Many soldiers also suffered heavy losses. Not only Not only people, but also all kinds of materials, after this battle, the palace's armaments are almost exhausted."

Therefore, after this war, King Ding is no longer a person, and there is no object. He wants to rebel, but he has no intention but no power.

Even Zhang Fu himself lost confidence, so he asked Li Xiaohan to do the cutting. Once the king was defeated, the new emperor would not kill a seventh-grade official under the vassal king.

Li Xiaohan sighed and asked, "Do you think I can still cut it open now?"

Zhang Fu was silent for a long time. Yes, Li Xiaohan's reputation is too loud. Although her official position is small, what she does is too crucial.

It used to be so important, but once it reaches that critical moment, it will be so fatal.

After a pause, Zhang Fu continued, "In the land of Jiangnan, there is often a saying that Jiangnan is familiar with food and clothing. If things go wrong, you and your tribe will break up and move to Jiangnan through the Jiangnan Chamber of Commerce where Mr. Su and others are. The new emperor For the sake of stability, we will not let Jiangnan be in chaos. The Jiangnan Chamber of Commerce has a secret deal with our army, and Mr. Su will agree to secretly send you out."

Zhang Fu's voice became sharper and brighter as he spoke, "As for you, you pass through the south of the Yangtze River and continue south. The Qing Gang has smuggled allicin to the Confederate Army. You hold the secret recipe of styptic powder and allicin, and use this as your proxy." For a price, let the Confederate army send you to continue south and find an overseas island to settle. With your ability, it will not be difficult to survive."

Once King Ding is defeated, this is a perfect escape route and place to settle.

Based on Li Xiaohan himself, this is all he can think of.

"Second Young Master is really thoughtful."

"Miss Li donated white wax, alcohol, allicin, etc. to Ding City. It was mostly because I was the bridge. If it weren't for me, I guess Miss Li would be the innocent rich man in Ding City. The world would be upside down for you." I didn't say anything. Now because of my drag, Miss Li has no choice but to flee to a desolate place. I am sorry for Miss Li."

"What about you? The prince is defeated, what will you do?"

"My father is one of the four generals under the command of the prince, and there is no reason to surrender. My mother is in poor health and cannot stand the travel. I am a member of the Zhang family after all."

Therefore, it is probably determined that the king will be defeated and the Zhang family will be destroyed.

=== Chapter === 172

Li Xiaohan naturally understood the meaning behind Zhang Fu's words. The Zhang family and Prince Ding were bound too deeply, and there was absolutely no possibility of separation. Therefore, this was the escape route he carefully left for Li Xiaohan after analyzing and judging that he might fail.

No, I'm not touched. Someone has considered this for her, and she's not a heartless person - in troubled times, if someone can consider every aspect of your survival, you can naturally feel how deep this friendship can be.

But more importantly, Li Xiaohan felt respected - Zhang Fu had laid the foundation for so much, but he did not make the decision for her, but told her everything, let her understand, and let her make her own decisions. Go take action.

Zhang Fu treated her as an equal and independent person, told her everything, ensured her right to know and act, and believed in her ability to survive even on overseas islands.

This is what really moved Li Xiaohan.

That is, after being moved, there was a difficulty before Li Xiaohan: she knew the plot of the original book, and King Ding was the final winner.

Therefore, the hardships that Zhang Fu envisions now will all pass, and it is impossible for her to run away now - running away is so easy to run, it is not called running away, especially now when going to the overseas islands in the south, she I'm not good at science and technology and infrastructure construction.

Only here in King Ding's lair is the safest place.

That is, how to tell Zhang Fu? Li Xiaohan was in a dilemma.

To put it bluntly, we are all characters in the same book. I know the plot of the original book. Will King Ding win?

impossible!

Li Xiaohan thought that she would probably take this secret to her grave, and she would not tell it until death took her away.

She believes that this moment is real, and she also believes that people's hearts are changeable, and only change is constant. It is impossible for her to put her life in the hands of others.

However, she also hopes that Zhang Fu can survive!

Although the plot of the original book records that King Ding won, it does not mean that the Zhang family will survive safely - at least, she knows that Zhang Zhen died as a savior. After Zhang Zhen died, although He has the false reputation of being the emperor's favorite general, but false reputation is not as important as living.

According to what she knew, Mrs. Zhang was not in good health, so she could infer that Mrs. Zhang might not be able to survive the news of her husband's death.

Zhang Fu and his mother lost their parents at the same time, and Zhang Fu had a deep relationship with his mother. Zhang Fu, who had always been overthinking and trying to be thoughtful, must blame himself very much. Maybe he would never be able to pass this test in this life.

Li Xiaohan took a deep breath, and the cold winter air made his chest feel stinging.

Don't give up, the details of the plot can be changed, so don't give up.

Look, he is the best example. Although he is an unknown supporting role, up to now, Li Xiaohan believes that he has controlled half of his life.

There is also the missing cousin Li Cairong, who can be regarded as a supporting character with a surname. According to the original book setting, he should have lived well in Dingcheng, but now he has left the clan and disappeared without a trace. .

The most important thing is that the male protagonist Lin Heng in the original book has already passed the imperial examination. In the original book, Lin Heng was the first scholar in the imperial examination until the new emperor En Kecai next year. The fate of the male protagonist has also changed.

It can be seen that this world does not unfold around the protagonist, but more like that history has its own majestic process, flowing endlessly and moving forward, and some people's The ups and downs of life are like a beautiful wave, so it was casually recorded by history and became the protagonist of a book.

A single wave cannot stop the flow of history, nor can the long river of history hinder the shining of waves.

Therefore, the fate of the Zhang family, just like the fate of my own family, can be changed.

The key now is how to increase Zhang Fu's weight. The more important Zhang Fu is to Ding Wang - Ding Wang is definitely an important wave in this period of rushing. The weight of books is also different. If Lin Heng He is the protagonist of an imperial examination article, so King Ding should be written in the history books. The more important Zhang Fu is, the more he can change his life.

As long as Zhang Fu is given a chance, he can seize it.

After being silent for a long time and thinking for a long time, Li Xiaohan spoke softly, "You are so pessimistic because you think the prince needs time, and the new emperor's intention to cut down the vassal is so obvious that he will definitely take advantage of the prince's exhaustion. The prince has no chance of winning when the feudal lord is ordered to be cut off, right?"

Zhang Fu nodded, this was what everyone had discussed, "This is the best time for the new emperor."

"I think... maybe, it's not as bad as you think." Li Xiaohan frowned and retorted softly.

"The new emperor has an indecisive temperament. This can be seen from the fact that the new emperor received an urgent military report from the prince and General Zheng, but it took nearly ten days to make a decision. It can be seen that the new emperor has neither enough He also doesn't have enough vision and decisiveness. He may not see that now is the best time."

Li Xiaohan spoke very steadily and slowly, and Zhang Fu slowly began to think, and his brows gradually wrinkled.

"Even though he saw this best opportunity, the new emperor was influenced by civil servants and especially loved reputation. In the name of the late emperor, the prince guarded Longmen Pass and was loyal. The new emperor may not have the courage to directly confront him at this time. The prince takes action. Some people capture thieves first and capture the king first, but some people like to pick weak persimmons first. If the new emperor thinks roundly, the first person to cut off the vassal is not necessarily the most powerful King Ding, but also the rich man. But the King of Qi is not strong."

And Li Xiaohan knew that the first one to cut was King Qi. Working backwards from the results to deduce the reasons, this is probably the reason.

Zhang Fu began to take a breath. Although it was incredible, he expected that the new emperor would not be so confused, but...but, sometimes what seems impossible turns out to be the most likely to happen.

Maybe, they should remind King Qi to have a backup plan? After all, the enemy of my enemy is my friend, and it would be best if King Qi could buy more time for King Ding.

Before Zhang Fu could figure out how to remind King Qi, Li Xiaohan spoke again, "I think maybe the prince should get sick. After all, the prince was grateful to the late emperor and guarded the Dragon Gate juncture, regardless of himself. The wounded body on the battlefield was about to defeat the Western Tartar and Beizhou coalition forces who were so angry with the late emperor, and avenged the late emperor. Now that the great revenge had been avenged, the prince breathed a sigh of relief and couldn't hold on anymore and fell down. ."

This method of pretending to be ill was not thought up by Li Xiaohan. After all, she remembered that in the original book, King Ding pretended to be ill for a while. However, I don't know whether King Ding was too reverent to the late emperor or because of other reasons, he had nothing to do with the late emperor.

Only Li Xiaohan felt this way. Since he was pretending, he should pretend to be more upright. After all, being able to stand on the moral high ground makes you appear more confident.

Zhang Fu swallowed a mouthful of saliva. This idea was very bold, very rebellious, and very deadly and attractive.

In an instant, Zhang Fu made a decision, "I will go to the palace immediately and persuade the prince immediately."

Fortunately, he came early today to avoid people, so he rushed over at this time. The morning meeting in the palace has not yet started, and the prince has not met with the officials today.

The opportunity is fleeting.

"When you are free, come find me again. I have something to give you." Li Xiaohan said, knowing that he couldn't delay any more at this time.

"Okay, don't go to the government office yet. If you need to find out anything, let others go find it out for you." Zhang Fu paused and warned, although after Li Xiaohan's analysis, maybe There was a turning point, but Zhang Fu still didn't want to give up this escape route.

He may have no escape route, but Li Xiaohan cannot.

"I got it. Let's go." Li Xiaohan said with a smile. There was nothing she needed to find out.

Zhang Fu stood up, turned around and immediately walked out quickly.

"Qingsong, prepare your horse."

"Yes, Second Young Master."

The sound of rapid horse hooves soon sounded outside the door, and then quickly disappeared again.

After the sound of horse hooves, a simple and low-key carriage slowly left from the back door and circled back to Gumen Alley.

After returning home, Li Xiaohan sat quietly for a while, and then said, "Old Uncle Zhong, help me go to the government office and ask my superior for leave, saying that I am infected with the cold. Try to stay as long as possible. , see what news there is."

"Miss Li, the second young master asked me to stay with you." Old Uncle Zhong was confused.

"It's okay, I'll stay at home and won't go out during this period. You go ahead." Li Xiaohan insisted.

"You and I will go and come back quickly." Old Uncle Zhong was confused.

"also."

Old Uncle Zhong went out soon. Li Xiaohan sat quietly in the main room, tapping his fingers on the table, frowning and thinking:

The civil war is about to start. According to the original book, it should be after the Chinese New Year. During this half year, there will definitely be many secret confrontations. The current situation of King Ding, how to gain an advantage in next year's battle and win the battle. To the capital.

From ancient times to the present, wars cost money. They are fought not just with bravery, but with the support of a country's power. Militarism has its reasons. Throughout history, there are many examples of wars that plunged a country into abject poverty. The most famous one is undoubtedly Emperor Wu of the Han Dynasty, who had outstanding martial arts. In his later years, he also exhausted the accumulation of Wenjing's rule. He issued the "Luntai Sin Ji" Edict, which said: "The current affairs are to prohibit cruelty, stop arrogance, and focus on agriculture. Repairing horses and restoring orders to make up for the vacancy is nothing more than lack of military preparation. ', so that the people can recuperate and recuperate.

Therefore, for King Ding to be able to win the war, in addition to King Ding's bravery, there must be huge economic logistics supporting the operation of King Ding's army.

According to Li Xiaohan's understanding, there are only two ways: one is to impose harsh taxes, draining all the potential of the areas under his control to support the war; the other is to use war to support war, as long as he is cruel enough, he will treat the rich The war on earth is not about burning money, but robbing money.

It is exactly in response to the sentence, "When prosperity occurs, the people suffer, and when it perishes, the people suffer." '

Li Xiaohan thought a lot and thought that the sun was high, but he couldn't think of any good solution. How can a war involving a whole country be solved by one person?

Forget it, think about it again slowly, Ding Wang can win, which means that there should be a solution later, I can only comfort myself that there will be a road to the mountain.

Li Xiaohan let him go for the time being, and when he went out, Old Uncle Zhong, who said he was going back as soon as possible, finally came back, but his steps were hurried and his expression was anxious, "Miss Li, the prince is sick."

Sure enough, it was installed.

"What's going on? How are you sick? What did you find out?" Li Xiaohan asked carefully.

Old Uncle Zhong was a little surprised. Why was Miss Li not so surprised? Instead, she seemed determined to go find out the news.

With a bit of confusion, Old Uncle Zhong told the news he had found out, "Today's morning meeting, the prince led all the officials to pay homage to the late emperor and comforted the late emperor that Liaodong had been taken back and that he had completed the decree that day. Then everyone A mouthful of blood spurted out in front of the officer and he fell down. After the doctor Ning took a look, he discovered that the prince had been seriously injured on the battlefield, and he had been holding on just to complete the entrustment of the late emperor's decree. Now I have informed you. The late emperor, I can't hold on any longer."

The design of this performance is good, and loyalty and filial piety are at the extreme. Li Xiaohan sighed in his heart.

Old Uncle Zhong saw that Li Xiaohan's expression was difficult to distinguish, and continued, "Now the government office is in chaos. I don't think there is any news, so I went back to the general's residence. The general and the young master are not here, and it is also in chaos. , Miss Li, what should we do?"

The general's palace was also in chaos, which meant that Zhang Fu and General Zhang were both in the palace. It was estimated that the two of them were too busy to leave in order to complete the whole scene.

"Wait. Let's just wait." Li Xiaohan said calmly.

"Ah. Oh." Seeing Miss Li's calm look, Old Uncle Zhong felt relieved.

Sure enough, after waiting for several days, news of the appointment of the king in the palace continued to spread. It was said that the princess and her female relatives had begun to eat fast, chant Buddha and pray for the prince, but the prince's condition continued to relapse.

There were even rumors that the prince was so ill that he became delirious. During his illness, he called him "father" and "father" many times, which made him cry.

Several days later, the capital urgently sent many imperial doctors to the city. The prince's illness finally stabilized. However, after this time, his body was severely damaged, and the prince was older. After all, he was worse than before. A lot of them were broken before.

After the prince's condition stabilized, Li Xiaohan finally waited until Zhang Fu finally came out.

"Hide it away."

Still in Qingming Alley, Zhang Fu lost a little weight, but his eyes were a little brighter, "In order to be realistic, the prince asked several generals to give him a knife each. After being hungry for several days, I took Dr. Zhang's disguise medicine again, and I became thin, yellow, and had a messy pulse. I finally managed to hide it from the imperial doctor from the capital."

King Ding is very willing to go out. Although he will definitely avoid the most dangerous places when attacking, the wound caused by a real knife or a real gun will be fatal if it is infected. Yes, King Ding was willing to take risks on himself. Li Xiaohan admired in his heart: No wonder King Ding came to power in the end.

However, there was not much to say. Li Xiaohan could only choose someone who was capable and curious and asked, "Doctor Zhang still have this kind of medicine?" "

"It is said to be Yeluzi. I found it when I was trying some herbal medicine once." Zhang Fu explained, "At that time, Dr. Zhang was recommended by Imperial Physician Ning. He said that his medical skills originated from Taiyuan Hospital. I'm afraid I can't hide it from Taiyin Hospital." Doctors, why don't you let Dr. Zhang help you think of a solution? Doctor Zhang's medical school is very different from that of the Imperial Hospital."

"Then it's really a mistake." Li Xiaohan didn't find it surprising when he thought about Dr. Zhang's attitude of trying all the herbal medicines himself, "Then now, listen to the audience The imperial doctor has returned, can you relax?"

"There are still people left in the palace to continue to help with treatment." Zhang Fu said with a smile, "But don't worry, that person is under our control and the news will not spread."

Hearing this, Li Xiaohan felt relieved - the officials in the palace were naturally not just for food. The suggestions he could give were firstly based on his familiarity with the general direction of the plot, and secondly It's because I don't have much respect for the throne and power of the emperor. Of course, now it seems that I don't pretend that everyone is in awe either.

After talking about the affairs of the palace, the two stopped again. Li Xiaohan took out a small medicine bottle and said, "Here you go."

"What is it?" Zhang Fu took it and asked puzzledly. The bottle looked a little slender, with a big belly and a short body, and a cork sealed the mouth.

"Can you open it and take a look?"

Zhang Fu stretched out his hand to open it, but unexpectedly, it was vaguely stuck. Zhang Fu did not dare to pull out hard for fear of breaking it. For a moment, he was at a loss and didn't know what to do. Is good.

Li Xiaohan looked at it and smiled. He took the bottle and twisted it gently to the left. The cork was slowly rotated out.

There seems to be a layer of pasty and translucent stuff in front of the cork in between, like paste, but stiffer than paste, like amber, yet softer and more transparent than amber.

"This is Eucommia gum, which is extracted from Eucommia leaves and Eucommia bark. The layer of silk threads is cooked and mixed." Li Xiaohan handed the cork over, "You touch it, it is a bit soft and can be made. It is waterproof and dustproof, and can isolate dirt in the air. I am going to use it in a medicine bottle to hold allicin. This is more convenient than wax sealing. In fact, I want to make Eucommia gum. The soles are also good, after all, they are waterproof, and the wheels should also be good, shockproof, and have other uses, I have to think about it again."

Li Xiaohan said it very casually, but Zhang Fu's expression began to become cautious: This is a new and unprecedented thing, and from the current point of view, what can be done is already very remarkable.

"Put this thing away and never mention it to anyone else again." Zhang Fu looked at Li Xiaohan and said, "If anything happens, you can take this secret recipe and it will always be useful." by the time."

Li Xiaohan turned to look at Zhang Fu. His face was serious, and only his small silhouette could be seen in his dark eyes.

Li Xiaohan smiled easily, "I have thought about this idea before, but now it is very difficult to think about it. I left, there are no Eucommia trees, there are Eucommia trees, and there are no trustworthy hands. "

"This thing should be able to sell for some money. At least put some allicin in it. Tell those rich people that the quality of our allicin has improved to a higher level and we also use a new bottle, but the price is also more expensive. Well, I think those wealthy people will definitely be willing to give me money. Although it's not much, but think of other ways, there is one more way. You are in charge of military supplies, you need this thing. "

"I actually don't want to see a war, but if there is a war, I always hope that my side can win."

"I hope that you can live well, and there is hope when you live. Just like you have arranged an escape route for me, I also hope that I can try my best to help you."

Yes, there is hope as long as you are alive. Who wants to die if you can live?

He also has a lot of desires, such as the person in front of him.

Zhang Fu gently took the bottle and stroked the layer of Eucommia gum.

"good."

=== Chapter === 173

After handing over the usage description and test directions of Eucommia Gum to Zhang Fu, Li Xiaohan's work in Fucheng was completed.

Now that King Ding is ill, they have nothing to do with their duties. After thinking about it, Li Xiaohan returned to Pingshan Village.

As soon as Li Xiaohan returned home, Patriarch Li came over and said very worriedly, "I heard that the prince is ill? How is it? Is it serious? Doctor Zhang has also left. Did he go to treat the prince?"

Patriarch Li had a deep understanding of Doctor Zhang's medical skills. Thinking back to the time when his son Li Xinhe was the most seriously ill, Dr. Ning in the prince's palace was unable to do anything and summoned Doctor Zhang back from all the way. Of course, I later saved my life by relying on allicin.

Now, the prince is seriously ill, and Dr. Zhang suddenly disappears, and Patriarch Li is inevitably connected.

"Well, the prince is ill. I heard in the city that he is very ill. But now he is probably stable, and the imperial court has sent a doctor to see him. It's just that my official position is small, so the specific things are not very clear. Understood." Li Xiaohan said seriously. Information such as Prince Ding's feigning illness should be classified as top secret. "Doctor Zhang was also recalled to treat the prince. He will not come back in a short time."

"As expected. The imperial doctors are here, so there should be no problem, right?" Patriarch Li looked at Li Xiaohan and said hopefully, vaguely asking Li Xiaohan for a guarantee.

People at the border know how important the safety of King Ding is to this area. Although it is said that Western Tartar Beizhou has been defeated, it does not mean that it is completely safe.

But how could Li Xiaohan guarantee it? He could only smile bitterly and said, "With all the imperial doctors here, it should be fine."

"Yes, yes. With so many imperial doctors, the prince will definitely be able to get through it safely." Patriarch Li said reluctantly, as if to convince himself.

There was silence for a while.

After a while, Patriarch Li finally regained his composure and continued to talk, "Xiaohan, this battle is over. Look at the Panax notoginseng inside the mountain. Do you want to continue digging? This Panax notoginseng styptic powder is still there. Do you want to do it? If you don't do it, so many people in our pharmacy will be idle."

Now that the war is over, the demand for Panax notoginseng styptic powder is naturally not as high. Patriarch Li is right to understand this.

Li Xiaohan thought for a while, the Panax notoginseng in the mountains, the first batch sown in the autumn of Taihe 23rd, has been harvested. Now it was planted in the mountains in Taihe 24th year. It can barely be used as medicine, but it can grow a lot of medicinal properties. Naturally, it is better. For the time being, it is not advisable to make large-scale pharmaceuticals.

However, if we don't make styptic powder, allicin won't be used by so many people. "Everyone, please stay here. You don't have to make styptic powder for now. I'll teach you how to make eucommia gum tomorrow?"

"Euccommia Gum? Is it prepared Eucommia? Or is it a new medicine? The Eucommia seedlings in your mountains can't be used as medicine, right?" Only the Li family and Dr. Zhang know about Eucommia Gum. The patriarch only knows that Li Xiaohan picks it from time to time. Are some Eucommia leaves tossing around for something at home, maybe testing new medicines?

"A new thing is not considered a new drug." Li Xiaohan said, "Everyone will know about it once it is made."

There was no concept of glue at this time, and it was difficult for Li Xiaohan to explain it.

"Sure. Everyone is free anyway. I'm going back."

He asked all the questions he wanted to ask, and answered all the questions Li Xiaohan could answer, and that was all. With Patriarch Li's visit, he finally got the answer he wanted.

Only Li Xiaohan, after Patriarch Li left, seemed a little uneasy. He just sat at the desk, not knowing what he was thinking.

"Xiaohan, did something happen when you went to Fucheng?" Wang looked at it for a long time and finally came forward and asked.

"Mom. No, everything went smoothly. Why do you ask?" Li Xiaohan smiled and asked.

"I see you are restless. Is there really nothing wrong?" Wang said worriedly.

"Really not." Li Xiaohan said. There are some things that would make Wang worried if he said them. It would be better not to say them. "I guess I am too tired. When I went out to meet the army, there was a cold wind all day. The prince behind me I'm sick again, and I'm so frightened that I can't rest well."

"Then lie down quickly. I'll light the fire wall for you, and you can take a nap. Go home and have a good rest." Wang said repeatedly.

"Yeah. Mom, please warm me up."

"Why."

Li Xiaohan originally just wanted to put on a show, but unexpectedly, he lay on his kang, closed his eyes and fell asleep almost immediately. When I woke up and opened the door, it was almost evening.

"Girl, you're awake. Do you want a bowl of soup? Madam ordered me to stew the old hen soup for you. Do you want to drink it now or later?" Seeing Li Xiaohan push the door open, Aunt He asked quickly. .

Li Xiaohan thought for a while. After sleeping enough, his appetite seemed to be awakened. "Give me a bowl now. I'll go wash it off first."

"Hey, big girl."

When I returned to Pingshan Village, I felt a sense of peace and happiness like a dream, which is rare and fragile.

Early the next morning, Li Xiaohan and Li Xiandong divided their troops into two groups. Li Xiandong first led people up the mountain to cut down the branches and leaves of Eucommia ulmoides, while Li Xiaohan went to the workshop to make preparations.

The first batch of Eucommia ulmoides seedlings planted are now almost three years old.

"These Eucommia trees grow very fast. They are almost as tall as two people now. If you think about it carefully, these are the seeds planted in the spring of Taihe on the 24th. Time flies so fast." Li Guiqian patted the trunk of the tree. , sighed and said.

"No. But it can continue to grow. The trees we cut down in order to harvest the bark of Eucommia bark are considered tall." Li Guihou continued, "It's a pity that those trees were cut down. But there is nothing we can do. , The trees in the wild are gold without an owner, and cannot be kept."

"No, the Eucommia trees in our family's land are better. They are cut every year and there is a harvest every year. Xiandong, when these trees of yours grow up, you can just cut the bark in the future." Li Guiqian was envious. Said. Now Li Xiandong's family has the most fields in the village. Those who cultivate the land do not envy anything, but they envy the abundance of land.

"You don't have to wait ten years to grow. You can use it now." Li Xiandong smiled honestly.

He naturally knew what his daughter had done. I have to say, those Eucommia rubber-soled boots are really good, they are light and waterproof, and they are perfect for wearing in rainy and snowy weather. Wang also glued a layer of fabric around it for camouflage. It looks similar to a mille-feuille bottom on the outside, but it is quite different when worn.

If Li Xiandong had to say it himself, he would not change his pair of eucommia-soled boots no matter what kind of gold and silver thread boots or fur boots the old man in the city offered him.

Eucommia gum can definitely make a lot of money.

Li Xiandong had no doubt that it was as if his daughter had been sold to the palace again. When Xiaohan came back, he brought someone back, emptied out all the Eucommia gum in stock at home, and gave him a land deed.

That's right, there aren't too many in this land.

Thinking of this, Li Xiandong couldn't help but sigh, "Although this tree is not very tall, it has so many leaves."

It's great, every branch and leaf is full of money.

"No, let's repair it. Xiandong, tell me, how should I cut it?"

"Cut one-third and take away all the top. Xiaohan said, take away the top advantage and don't need to grow too tall."

"Okay, I get it. It's still a little tender, so let's take it easy and chop it."

The group of people began to chop branches and leaves, while Li Xiaohan was waiting in the workshop. When the first batch of Eucommia ulmoides branches and leaves returned, Li Xiaohan led the people to peel the bark, pick the fine leaves, chop them, and then put them on the stone. Grinding, in short, the technology is not enough for labor, but fortunately, labor is cheap now.

"There are so many things, all branches and leaves." While working, someone sighed in a low voice.

"Not much. Didn't Xiaohan say? This thing is like retting hemp. It needs to be soaked. Finally, the white silk is extracted. If you think about how thin the white silk is, there will definitely not be much left in the end. ."

"That's true. It's just a bit hard work, but you can make money, so it's worth it."

"No, there is no way to make money without hard work."

The two people talked to themselves and became happy again. When it was almost evening, Li Guihou and the others came back carrying branches. The branches almost filled half of the yard.

In the winter in Pingshan Village, everyone seems to have never stopped, and they are full of enthusiasm for working and making money.

Li Xiaohan thought that part of the reason should be that the tribe really likes to make money, and part of the reason is that the return of the army did not make people completely relieved. For example, those who were drafted still did not disband and return home. , only allowed to visit, for example, those who died did not receive pensions. Li Xiaohan always heard these voices more or less from the aunt in the village, and the final conclusion was always 'It's better to be in our clan. There are no more children, seven or five children.'

However, the fragile peace of Pingshan Village was eventually broken.

"Why are we paying taxes again? Aren't we paying autumn taxes?" The tax collection notice came so suddenly that Patriarch Li was a little confused.

"This is the newly recruited Shen Ding Fu this year. For those over fifteen years old and under sixty-five years old, the new Shen Ding Fu is five cents." Xu, the officers and soldiers who came to collect the Shen Ding Fu had been warned, and faced Patriarch Li's The question was not angry, but continued to explain carefully, "The national treasury is empty. This time the body tax is collected to pay out the casualties in the Liaodong Campaign."

"But...but this is too much." Patriarch Li said. One tael is equivalent to ten taels of silver, which is equivalent to 1,200 taels of silver. Five taels of silver is equal to 600 taels of silver. If there are ten people in a family, they will have to pay five taels of silver.

"If there is a family that is subject to military service, parents and children will be exempted from military service, but grandparents and grandchildren will not be exempted, and brothers and sisters will not be exempted." The officer and soldier explained, "However, there should be no one exempted from military service in your Pingshan Village."

"Yes, we understand." Patriarch Li's back lowered a little, and he finally understood. In this case, the tax would be levied on people who have not performed military service. "When will it be collected?"

"We will collect it in five days," the official said.

"I know." Patriarch Li bent even lower.

Li Xiaohan wanted to say something, but at the end, he didn't know what to say.

In the end, it was the official who bowed to Li Xiaohan and said, "Master Li, I also act under orders, and this is the case for everyone under the jurisdiction of the prince."

"Yes, Lord Official, I understand." Li Xiaohan smiled bitterly.

Seeing that Li Xiaohan had no objection, the officer turned his horse and left, "Clan Chief Li, I'll come back in five days."

As soon as the official left, the clan members who were watching shouted, "Clan leader, clan leader, this... why is this like this?"

"The government's orders are like this. How can you disobey them?" Patriarch Li said, "Or maybe you want to serve in the military. I heard that those who served in the military have not returned alive or dead."

That was better than paying for military service.

Besides, the people of Pingshan Village have made a little money in the past few years. From Eucommia ulmoides in the early days, to planting peppers, to opening peppercorn workshops to recruit people, they really haven't caught up with them. , at least there are chickens and pigs raised by every household using garlic residue, and they have made a lot of money in the past six months.

Although it is really heartbreaking to pay this money, it is not impossible to hand over.

However, just because people from Pingshan Village can do it, doesn't mean that everyone can do it.

Since the news of the additional levy of the Dingfu came out, many of the daughter-in-law's parents' families in Pingshan Village came, and those who came with food in exchange were considered good, some borrowed directly, and some even asked when they would pay back the loan. I don't say anything, I just say that I am helping.

"Son, son-in-law, please help your parents. The family really can't raise the money. We can only sell our land, sons and daughters. I beg you, I know that the Li family in Pingshan Village is making money. There are too many, please help your parents."

From a distance, Li Xiaohan heard the cry of an old and unfamiliar man in the village, which seemed to come from Aunt Shugen's house.

"Mom, how can I have so much money? There are eight people in my family, and six of them have to pay for the money. I can't hold it in." Aunt Shugen cried and replied, "Okay, even if I have some spare energy. I want to help, but you don't have food to exchange for it, and you have borrowed money and wine for sixty-two liang. You are my grandparents, uncles, aunts, nephews, and they all borrowed their lives and talents from me. I am getting married, and my mother-in-law is watching. Wife, look at me, how do you want me to behave? Mom, you have pity on me."

"Son, mother, there is really nothing we can do, there is really nothing we can do." Li Xiaohan only heard more miserable cries, and then a faint sound of kowtows.

Li Xiaohan felt panic and despair in her heart, which made her run home as if she were running away, and locked the door of her house tightly.

It seems that this way, we can neither see nor hear this human tragedy.

=== Chapter === 174

The farce at Aunt Shugen's house was finally resolved amidst the cries.

"What else can I do? They are both my biological parents. Even though they are married, how can they die without saving their lives?" Mrs. Ye sighed to Mrs. Wang while making cotton-padded clothes.

Although few people in the Li family grow cotton this year, everyone has money to buy cotton. However, they are only willing to buy seed cotton with seeds, peel it slowly at home, and then make cotton clothes by themselves. Fortunately, cotton combs are now available in every household, making it much easier than before.

The piece in Ye's hands is a new cotton-padded coat made for Li Guihou. After all, life is better now than before. As the head of a family, Li Guihou also needs a new and good cotton-padded coat.

"No." Mrs. Wang was holding a blouse belonging to Li Xiaoshuang. Li Xiaoshuang's clothes got dirty quickly, so Wang made many blouses for her, which were easy to wash and change. There is no pattern on the smock, but just tie it up with fine cotton cloth. Wang's hands are also familiar with it. While doing it, he said, "I heard that it was loaned out. The clothes of my grandparents and my parents, a total of two taels." Silver, right?"

"Yes." Mr. Ye said, "It's difficult for the Shugen family. It's not bad to be able to lend so much. I estimate that if you lend this money, it will be difficult to get it back within three to five years."

"No. It's hard to make money in this world." Ms. Wang sighed and said that her mother's family is gone and she doesn't have any such worries. She is just a little worried - the world has been difficult these past few years. There were droughts, freezes, and constant wars, and there were not many days to live in peace and quiet.

"Let's not talk about this. Hey, my uncle's eldest son is getting married on the 20th. They don't have a woman who is the head of the family, so they invited me to take care of the kitchen that day. Do you want to go or not? Help?" Ye said.

The so-called kitchen management is to arrange the meals for the banquet on the wedding day, which are usually cooked by the mother-in-law. However, Li Dashu's family is special. There is no woman, so he can only invite family members he knows well. Li Dashu invited his neighbor Ye's family. After all, they live close to each other and have become closer in recent years. Ye's own son is about to get married, so he is naturally willing to practice the drill first.

In fact, Wang was invited first, but although Wang has a lively temperament, she is still not a very well-rounded person, so when Li Dashu mentioned it secretly, he refused.

"Sure. When are you going?" Mrs. Wang said. She didn't have to worry about anyone. She was willing to join in the fun. When the clan held weddings, acquaintances came to help. Sometimes this was also a small thing for the women. circle.

"Just come early in the morning. There probably won't be many people from that girl's family," said Ye.

"What's going on? Why doesn't my mother-in-law come to have a drink?" Ms. Wang asked strangely.

"No, it's not that I won't come, it's that I don't come very often." Ms. Ye lowered her business, "The marriage between Dazhuang and Dazhuang has been decided urgently. It seems that it was also caused by her Dingfu. The girl is the daughter of Dazhuang's younger brother. The situation at home is also very bad. I heard that the girl's father had bad luck when he was working as a laborer. The work he was assigned was tiring and heavy. He fell seriously ill and emptied the family's fortune. This time, he received a fortune. There is also a lot of money. The two families discussed it and let Da Zhuang marry his cousin. The bride price was converted into silver, and the dowry was not much."

"Perhaps because of this, the girl's family felt that they were in the wrong. Not many people came. Firstly, they were ashamed, and secondly, they wanted to save some money for the banquet for Dashu's family." Ye explained quietly. , "Actually, I think the Dashu family is quite satisfied with this girl, and they asked me to prepare a variety of dishes."

"These... two families can be regarded as well-informed families. In fact, that's fine." Wang said.

"No," Ms. Ye continued, "Although it is a bit disgraceful to say so, it is true that both families have gained. First, the strong mother died to save her father. However, we tried our best to treat him, and the relationship between the two families is quite good, and they have always been relatives. I had no intention of getting married again. Firstly, the matter of the strong mother-in-law has always been a knot in my mind, and secondly, the girl's family has The conditions were a little better, but I couldn't bear to let my daughter suffer. Now it's reversed, and the marriage is just fine."

Mrs. Ye knew that Ms. Wang was strict with her words, so she revealed all the news she had heard.

"Don't talk about big marriages, I heard that several families in the village are also discussing marriages. It will be before the year before, and it will be after the new year." Ye said.

"How come you're in such a hurry?" Wang was surprised. It's almost the Chinese New Year now. First of all, the Li family in Pingshan Village had no plans to get married.

"Isn't it just the troubled world? The prince is sick now, which always makes people feel uneasy. If you marry early, you will save a fortune next year." Ye said, "We in the village There are also families who plan to marry someone earlier and raise one or two more pigs and one more pot of chickens next year, which will help them earn more."

As for those who got married in Pingshan Village, no one mentioned it now. How could they marry at this time to a suitable family? It's better to stay at home.

"How about your family's wealth? Good girls should start early." Wang asked. Now she also knows that good girls and young men are in high demand. Some are quick and some are slow.

"The one we talked about earlier is in trouble, and I'm also looking for it now." Speaking of this, Mr. Ye's brows wrinkled.

In the end, the previous family couldn't reach an agreement for one reason or another. I heard that she had married into the big landlord's family next door. Her family's wealth and possessions are not bad for both of them, but it's hard to say how good they are. Could it be that, as his father said, it would be best to find someone from a similar family background who can work efficiently?

"Look slowly. If your family's wealth is so high, you have to find a good girl." Wang said.

"As long as he is half as motivated as his sister, I will feel relieved." Ye said. Jia Cai's temperament is like that of his father Li Guihou, he is honest and willing to work but is not willing to use his brain. The smartest one in the family is Li Hehua. Now in the workshop, the rank of Lotus Collar is already higher than that of his father and brother, and he still has to accept it. Hey, speaking of it, their family feels a bit like the yin is rising and the yang is declining.

"What's the matter? Someone mentioned lotus flowers to you?" Wang asked Xiange Zhiyayuan carefully and asked.

"There were so many people asking, and each matchmaker had to say it several times, both openly and secretly. I didn't respond to any of them. I just told her that neither of her brothers had succeeded, and that she would have to keep the lotus for a few years." It's a mixture of pride and annoyance. Naturally, I don't mention pride. Anxiety is because I'm afraid of the matchmaker's mouth, for fear of too many rejections and saying that I have a high vision.

Wang frowned slightly and pursed her lips, wondering why no matchmaker asked her.

In fact, Mrs. Wang didn't think about it, how could the matchmaker in the nearby village dare to take Li Xiaohan's idea? If she was too high-minded, she would be criticized. If the Wang family was in Fucheng, there would probably be people coming to check on the situation. Unfortunately, Fucheng is also in a mess now.

She couldn't figure it out, so Wang didn't think about it anymore. Anyway, it was pretty good now, and her girl was still a baby.

"Now is not the time to marry off your daughter and suffer hardship." Wang said.

"That's exactly the truth." Ye nodded heavily.

Soon the 20th came, and preparations for the banquet at Li Dashu's family began early. Mrs. Ye and Mrs. Wang went there early in the morning to help, while Aunt He took Li Xiaoshuang at home.

By noon, Li Xiaohan also followed Li Xiandong. Although it was said to be a real marriage, the arrangements in Li Dashu's home were also festive and grand.

Nowadays, it seems as natural for Li Xiaohan to sit at the main table as the sun rises and the moon sets. Everyone is not surprised. Therefore, as soon as Li Xiaohan and Li Xiandong came in, the helpful tribesmen led Li Xiaohan and his daughter to the main table.

According to the custom of Pingshan Village, the important people from the mother-in-law's family and husband's family were seated at the main table. Li Xiaohan glanced around and saw a few unfamiliar middle-aged people.

"Congratulations." Li Xiaohan greeted him proactively.

When the other party saw Li Xiaohan, a young girl, sitting down, he was shocked for a moment, but he quickly realized that he had done his homework, straightened his expression quickly, and said in return, "Thank you, Miss Li, I agree with you." happiness."

After saying hello, I didn't seem to know what to say. The few people who came were very reserved, but they couldn't help but glance over at me from the corner of their eyes.

After sitting for a while, Li Xiaohan stood up and said, "I'm going to see the bride."

"Go, go." Everyone said.

The time was set quickly, and Li Dashu's house didn't have time to rest, but when Li Xiaohan came to the couple's room, Li Dazhuang's room was still well rested. In the past few days, the furniture was brand new and the bedding was bright red. The bride was sitting on the bedside, her face full of shyness.

Li Xiaohan followed and listened for a few words, and soon it was time to have a banquet. The banquet was also very rich, including chicken, pig, fish, and of course Pingshan Village's special pepper vegetables.

It was lively and lively, and the host and guest enjoyed themselves.

The next day, Li Dazhuang came with his new wife to meet him. On the first day he met her, the bride was very shy, and looked at the two of them very harmoniously and beautifully.

Li Xiaohan felt inexplicably relieved, as if everyone was happy, it was good.

Next, Li Dazhuang's marriage seemed to have set off a trend. Many families had agreed before the end of the year that those who would invite Li Xiaohan's family to dinner would start waiting in the back row starting from the fifth day of the Lunar New Year.

What everyone talks about during the Chinese New Year is about having children, planning how many peppers to plant and how many poultry to raise in the spring. Everyone seems to be rolling up their sleeves and doing a great job.

In this way, in this year with a sad undertone, it seems that everyone is still struggling to continue living and trying to live a more hopeful life. There are red fireworks on the vast snow-colored land.

After the new year, spring is here again. It seems that spring is always a season that makes people feel hopeful. The branches begin to sprout a little green, and the bursts of spring thunder also bring joy. Everyone begins to Busy with seed selection, land preparation, weeding, and breeding.

In the spring of the twenty-seventh year of Taihe, the new emperor officially changed his reign name to Zhengde, which was the first year of Zhengde in the twenty-seventh year of Taihe.

In February of the first year of Zhengde, an official in the Prince of Qi's Mansion secretly reported that the Prince of Qi was extremely disrespectful to His Majesty. In private, he often called me a bratty brat who was not qualified to ascend to the throne. The emperor was furious and ordered the King of Qi's house to be searched. He found evidence that the King of Qi intended to rebel, and deposed the King of Qi into a useless person. After the King of Qi confessed, he was so frightened that he burned himself to death.

In the same month, King Ding heard of his great sorrow and asked his brother for failing to fulfill his responsibilities and willing to be punished. The emperor cared for him. The next day King Ding was seriously ill and bedridden.

In March of the first year of Zhengde, Emperor Zhengde issued an order to open Enke.

"Brother Xinhe, do you still want to take the imperial examination?" Li Xiaohan asked gently, but did not look at Li Xinhe, only looking far ahead.

It is clear that spring is here, the weeds are sprouting in the fields, the branches are covered with fresh green, and the wind is carrying the soft moisture of spring. Why do I still feel as cold as autumn and winter?

=== Chapter === 175

For a moment, Li Xinhe was unable to answer Li Xiaohan's question.

It is said that if you read the Three Character Classic carefully, you will know the affairs of the world. Being able to enter Qingshan Academy and pass the examination, Li Xinhe is not a person who only focuses on writing books about sages and does not know what is going on outside the window. On the contrary, students like them are very concerned about world affairs, otherwise the students' discussion of politics after the fall of Liaodong would not have happened. .

The first emperor had three sons, the first prince, King Ding, and King Qi. It was said that the first emperor killed too many people, so there were not many heirs. The late emperor only had three sons, and naturally he loved each one of them very much. Not to mention the prince, the son he loved most most died. The emperor cried bitterly for three days and three nights, and tried his best to kill the prince. Sun sent him to the throne.

As for King Ding and King Qi, the late emperor also arranged them well.

King Ding was fond of martial arts, and the late emperor could not bear to let his best son go to waste, so he enfeoffed King Ding to the northwest and gave him great rights.

The King of Qi was a young son, so he was naturally more pampered and pampered. He had mediocre martial arts skills since childhood and liked to have fun. Therefore, the late emperor divided the King of Qi into a city in Qicheng, which was second only to Jiangnan in prosperity.

King Ding is strong but not rich, King Qi is rich but not strong, only the first prince is rich and strong. The late emperor's arrangement in this way can be regarded as a painstaking effort for the king and father.

Over the years, the King of Qi seems to be peaceful and contented. Occasionally, it is reported that he likes fine clothes, delicious food, fine wine and beautiful women. He has all the faults that a vassal king should have, but he is a traitor. I have not heard of any great evil.

After the death of the first emperor, he ordered King Qi to assist the court and King Ding in retaking Liaodong. Although it was not King Qi's turn to contribute, King Qi also paid for it - because King Qi was such a loud and public person. His temperament made him very heartbroken after paying for the money, and he had to cry out on his own.

It was such a King of Qi who was accused of treason and then burned himself to death.

Li Xinhe is not really a fool. He can now see that there are too many questions and too many factors involved in King Qi's rebellion.

And King Ding's illness, whether it was an injury or a fright, was a sign of weakness.

Li Xinhe didn't have the guts to pretend to be sick yet. Prince Ding's illness has been spreading in the city, and the imperial physician has also come to see him. Now he heard that there is still an imperial physician here. Naturally, Li Xin and these people were concealed.

It's just that if the rabbit dies, the fox will be sad, and if something happens to King Qi, it's certain that King Ding will be killed.

Li Xinhe, who was under the rule of King Ding, respected King Ding deep in his heart. However, the idea of loyalty to the king and patriotism that he had received since childhood made Li Xinhe full of contradictions now.

After being silent for a long time, Li Xinhe could only say with difficulty, "I don't know."

I have no idea.

A pure idealist, he was shaken.

Li Xiaohan quickly understood the meaning, turned to look at Li Xinhe, and showed a little smile, "I want to ask Brother Xinhe, what do you study for?"

Li Xinhe answered very quickly this time, "Master Zhang said, 'Establish a heart for the world, establish a destiny for the people, carry on the unique knowledge for the saints, and create peace for all generations.' This has always been my goal. ."

Li Xiaohan has always known that Li Xinhe is a standard scholar, but it is admirable that Li Xinhe understands his beliefs so well - there are some characters that sometimes seem inappropriate, but it is these noble characters and Persistence and pursuit of these qualities allow mankind to develop in a more civilized direction.

However, now Li Xiaohan wants to pull this noble and untimely soul away from the mortal world temporarily: "In this case, I think Brother Xinhe doesn't know how to go now, so why not go back and ask the holy words in the book. If the Holy Word cannot tell you, Brother Xinhe, you can also lower your head and look around you. The world is so big and what you can do is really very little. On the contrary, it is the people around you who are closely related to you."

To put it bluntly, why don't you go back and read a book. If you don't understand the book, go do something practical.

Li Xinhe fell into silence again. After a long time, he suddenly realized that he had left Li Xiaohan's house.

Obviously he went to inquire about the news, but he was persuaded to come back by Li Xiaohan. For a moment, Li Xinhe didn't want to go home and just wandered around Pingshan Village aimlessly.

"Xinhe, what are you doing here?" Li Shugen, who was watering the field, shouted when he saw Li Xinhe walking by absentmindedly.

Li Xinhe looked up for a while, as if he had half recovered, "Uncle Shugen, what kind of life do you want to live?"

"Ah?" Li Shugen was confused and looked at Li Xinhe worriedly: What question did Xinhe ask? Could it be that he hasn't woken up yet?

It's a pity that Li Xinhe was still staring at Li Shugen. Li Shugen was in trouble for a long time, and finally came up with an answer, "Just... on this day."

Yes, on this day, everyone in the family is here, there is food in the house, and there is hope in the eyes. The more Li Shugen thought about it, the more he felt it was right.

Li Xinhe frowned and continued to ask, "Uncle Shugen, what do you think of the prince?"

He was also confused, but he asked directly.

"Your Majesty... Your Majesty, that's a big shot we can't talk about." Li Shugen stammered, and finally thought of something, "Although the Prince collects taxes and recruits troops, isn't that because of the damned Western Tartarians! I heard After we paid the Ding Fu, the pensions for the soldiers who died in battle were distributed."

Speaking of this, Li Shugen sighed and said with a naive smile: "Xinhe, have you heard about your aunt Shugen's natal family coming to borrow money? Although we are a little reluctant to part with the money, we can still get it. This year, our family will work hard to raise more livestock, and we will be able to make money back soon."

"The most important thing is that the world cannot be chaotic. If it is chaotic, people will die. I heard that the prince is ill, and I don't know how the prince is. Hey, we all hope that the prince will get well soon. No more prince. , what if Northern Tartar comes again?" Li Shugen said worriedly.

"Yes, the foreign enemy is still there, so we can't cause chaos." Li Xinhe said to himself and slowly walked away.

"Xinhe, Xinhe?" Li Shugen shouted twice from behind, but received no response. However, seeing that Li Xinhe was heading home, Li Shugen felt relieved and continued to water the pepper seedlings.

When Li Xinhe returned home in a daze, Patriarch Li frowned when he saw his son like this, "What do you look like? Didn't you say you were talking to Xiaohan? Something big happened?"

"No." Li Xinhe sighed, "Dad, do you think I should go to Kaunke?"

Hearing his son ask this question, Patriarch Li knew that his son was upset. He let out a long sigh, and Patriarch Li said, "Logically speaking, Enke is a great opportunity. You read I have read books for so many years, it's time to give it a try."

"But, son, I don't trust you. You have a temperament that looks harmonious on the outside, but in your heart you are black and white. When you go to the capital, there are traps and dangers everywhere. What's more, the prince has been I'm sick, and you were born in Dingcheng, so I'm really afraid that something like last time will happen to you again."

"Your father, I only have one son. I'm old, and I'm just a broken village chief. What can I do to get you out of it? I don't have the shame to trouble others."

Patriarch Li mentioned what happened last time, and Li Xinhe also thought of Qian Xuezheng, who is now in hell. If the court is full of shameless people like Qian Xuezheng, then he has worked so hard Is the purpose of studying hard to pass the imperial examination just to be colleagues with these people?

Seeing his son's brows loosen, Patriarch Li continued, "I have always told you before that as the leader of a clan, you must consider the whole clan. Now that you have won the imperial examination, you are more promising than dad. Now, dad is also convinced. I can't help you, you just have to figure it out yourself. Take a look at this account book. You are not only a descendant of our family, you are also a descendant of the clan. I know you have great ambitions, but if you can't even You can't even understand the affairs of the clan. How can I believe that you are capable? You have to do it step by step to cultivate your character, manage your family, govern your country, and bring peace to the world."

Li Xinhe took the account book and flipped through it, and happened to find:

"In February of the 24th year of Taihe, I collected the Qing Gang's "Inter-House Examination Collection", "Jiangnan Chunwei Collection" and "Xinya Collection", and paid 10 taels of silver (public account) and some favors (Li Xiaohan)"

"In June of the 24th year of Taihe, Li Xin and Qingshan Academy paid thirty taels of silver (twenty taels to the public account, Li Manjing twenty taels) for activities at Qingshan Academy, and some favors (Li Xiaohan)"

"..."

Turning back to the first page, it records things when ethnology was first established, such as

"Jianzu learns to build a three-room tiled house by himself. The bricks and tiles cost twelve ounces and seven hundred coins."

"There are three hundred new batches of poems purchased, totaling thirty taels and five cents."

"Pay Li Chunye's salary twelve taels a year."

…

Over time, the account book has turned yellow, the original handwriting has become blurred, and the newly added handwriting is very dark.

This is the account book of the Li clan's clan science. From the beginning to the present, every bit of it has been entrusted by the clan members. Studying naturally costs money. Although the clan's forest land and other publicly owned income can support it, the work in the forest land is all done by the clan members themselves.

If this money is not used for studying, we can do a lot of things and make our people's lives better.

Li Xinhe felt a little heavy in his heart. He knew that the clan spent a lot of money to support scholars like them, but he was still shocked when he saw the densely packed ledgers.

Not to mention serving the country and bringing peace to the world, he has not even repaid the kindness of his clan.

It's a bit ridiculous to overestimate your capabilities.

Li Xinhe stroked the account book, and then said softly, "Dad, please make arrangements for me. During the monthly baths and holidays, I will lead a few of them around. Sir, he is older." , now I have to teach the tribesmen how to read every night, and my energy is exhausted. I will lend a hand and bring Deyou and the others up as soon as possible."

Patriarch Li looked at his son for a while, and finally smiled happily, "It's done."

After that, Li Xinhe became busy, seeming to put more energy into teaching Li De, and then became more concerned about the clan affairs. I have never heard of Enke's incident again. On the contrary, his college classmate Lin Heng came to see him several times, but he left disappointed every time.

However, this is all for the future. At this moment, Patriarch Li has stabilized the unsettling factor of his son, and his son quickly turned his head to concentrate on practical matters. His outstanding growth is more in line with Patriarch Li's wishes.

Patriarch Li was overjoyed beyond words. He quietly found Li Xiaohan the next day and said, "Brother Xinhe, I figured it out."

Li Xiaohan's dark eyes widened, "Do you understand?!"

Patriarch Li touched the short beard on his chin rather reservedly and nodded proudly.

Li Xiaohan raised his hands and bowed in admiration, "As expected of the clan leader, you still have to take action. No matter how smart Brother Xinhe is, he can't escape from your Wuzhishan."

Patriarch Li nodded more rhythmically: No, he is a man after all. So what if he lifts people up? He is still a little young.

=== Chapter === 176

After getting rid of Li Xin and this precious white porcelain that cannot be taken lightly, cannot be heavy, cannot be broken, and cannot be beaten, Patriarch Li and Li Xiaohan finally relax and engage in big business to make money.

King Qi's "rebellion" and King Ding's serious illness seemed to have calmed down quickly under the deliberate treatment of the superiors. However, everyone felt uneasy either rationally or instinctively, and had various thoughts and secrets. grow. Just like under the calm lake, the undercurrent is turbulent. I don't know how high the waves will be in the future.

In Li Xiaohan's view, after the war with Xita and Beizhou stopped, the Jiangnan Chamber of Commerce represented by Mr. Su had a higher demand for allicin and other drugs.

However, Mr. Su did not come to Pingshan Village again. The person who came to replace Mr. Su was the Second Young Master Su.

"Master Li, I heard that an upgraded version of allicin has been released in Dingcheng. It is said to be stronger and more pure. It is packed in a bottle sealed with Eucommia gum. It is a small bottle. It can be sold for twice the price. I wonder if Mr. Li has ever heard of this?" Second Young Master Su said very sincerely.

Unlike his younger brother, who is handsome, charming and suave, Young Master Su is a bit plain and unpretentious. At first glance, he looks like an ordinary businessman.

Let Li Xiaohan say that the second young master Su is two points better than the third young master Su in terms of talent for business. For example, the second young master Su has the courage to inquire about information from her, but it is a pity that Li Xiaohan does not Give him the answer, "I heard that it was an upgrade formula that the military came up with after a large number of injuries and illnesses tests on the battlefield."

Second Young Master Su didn't seem to believe it, but he also seemed to be testing it with purpose, "I heard that Mr. Li came up with the Eucommia Gum, Mr. Li?"

Li Xiaohan turned his head and glanced at him lightly. Young Master Su paused for a moment, then awkwardly wiped his forehead, "Um... Um, I wonder if Mr. Li has Eucommia Gum?"

"I won't sell it for the time being, because the production capacity can't keep up." Li Xiaohan refused simply and neatly, and even the reason was the same as before. .

Second Young Master Su was obviously very disappointed. After thinking about it, he continued without giving up, "Then I wonder if alcohol can be provided. We can increase the supply of original wine."

Li Xiaohan thought for a while and decided to buy more alcohol. "Okay, I'll double it for you."

Finally, one thing was negotiated. Young Master Su was very happy. He smiled, raised his hands and said, "Thank you, Mr. Li."

"Lotus, lotus." Li Xiaohan shouted, "The supply of alcohol is doubled for Master Su."

"Hey, Master, I understand." Li Hehua came over and responded cheerfully.

Because he can calculate quickly and well, is very familiar with clerical matters, and treats people with courtesy and courtesy, Li Hehua has quickly stood out in a very short period of time since he entered the workshop, surpassing all his uncles and brothers. Become the external person in charge of the workshop, winery and pepper shop. After all, the clan leader cannot stay here all the time, and Li Hehua's detailed account book is praised by the clan leader.

There are even times when the number of livestock sales in the village is large, and the tribesmen are worried, so they have to call Li Hehua over to support the business.

Li Hehua skillfully took Master Su out and said, "Master Su, come with me. The goods are ready this time. After you count them, we will just pay and deliver them." As for the increased amount of alcohol, we will sign another document."

"Girl Lotus, just call me Brother Su." Young Master Su said happily, "Girl Lotus, I must feel at ease when doing things. We have been together so many times."

Li Xiaohan frowned slightly as he listened to the voices of the two of them. This Second Young Master Su must be a little familiar to him, right?

Sure enough, they are two masters and disciples. Li Hehua thought the same way. From a distance, he heard Li Hehua's soft and refreshing voice, "Young Master Su is so polite. My second brother heard it." I can't tell. Although we have done business many times, we can't take it lightly. Wouldn't it be better to do this business clearly and clearly? Mr. Su Er should know better than me. That's the truth."

Li Hehua has two cousins, two biological brothers and four brothers, as well as her clan brothers in the workshop and wine shop.

As expected, Second Young Master Su was very knowledgeable, "Miss Hehua is right."

Li Xiaohan was relieved.

I fell into deep thought again.

After the war between Xita and Beizhou ended, the military in Dingcheng estimated that they really had no money. Not only did they have to collect a round of personal tax to pay out the pension, but the military also began to secretly Making money by selling allicin - the upgraded version of Eucommia gum that Mr. Su Er said was Li Xiaohan's method. It changed the packaging and doubled the price. The cost of allicin was not high to begin with, but now the profit is even more terrifying.

However, even under the premise that the military will increase supply, Li Xiaohan's Master Su, Renhetang and the Qinggang are all asking for increased supply, especially the Qinggang and Mr. Su. The Qinggang has smuggled goods to the southernmost Nanjun, Jiangnan Chamber of Commerce represented by Mr. Su.

There is no reason for a sudden increase in normal consumption. This shows that the digestive organs behind the two are stocking up. Everyone is not optimistic about the situation in Dingcheng - just in case, King Ding If there is an eventuality, it cannot be calmed down easily like King Qi. Besides, although Xita and Beizhou have been defeated, they have not yet been exterminated. Who can say for sure when the time comes.

Dingcheng will definitely be in chaos, and it may not be stable for another three to five years, and the medicine will not be able to get out by then, so they are stocking up in large quantities.

Ducks are prophets of the warm water in spring rivers, and geese fly south when the wind is cold in autumn.

Everyone is not optimistic about it, and they are all secretly preparing to stock up on food for the future.

Li Xiaohan sighed deeply.

What can she do? She is actually preparing silently. She had recently asked Mr. Su to exchange the silver notes into gold, otherwise how could she readily agree to increase the alcohol supply.

In fact, in addition to Li Xiaohan, everyone is also making preparations. This year in Pingshan Village, the livestock are no longer raised for home consumption, but are raised specifically to be sold for money. Fortunately, the supply of allicin has increased, and garlic residue has also been raised. Too much, otherwise it won't be enough.

There are more and more people opening up wasteland. No matter how barren the land is, you can still grow some garlic.

In the midst of everyone's crazy trading, hoarding, and planting, just like squirrels hoarding pine cones before winter, time came in mid-April when the Dingcheng military secretly researched Eucommia gum. The application has finally produced certain results.

"According to the method you mentioned, we tried adding unoxidized charcoal powder to the Eucommia gum. The Eucommia gum will become much harder. Then adding sulfur for fumigation, the Eucommia gum will become elastic." Zhang Fu said slightly. He said with a little smile, the face that used to be golden and jade-like, now has more black and blue under his eyes, and the whole person looks thinner and taller.

"We want to try if it is hard enough, we can make it into a breastplate for soldiers." Zhang Fu continued.

"Wait a minute, I'm sorry, you said it again, I didn't hear you clearly." Li Xiaohan suspected that he heard wrongly, and did not react for a moment. He never thought that this Eucommia gum could also be used to make Breastplate.

"I said, the craftsmen are testing whether Eucommia gum can be made into breastplates. Although you said it has good waterproof performance and good elasticity, it is really a waste to use it as soles."

Li Xiaohan stroked his forehead and suddenly realized that she was limited. At this time, if there was no way to protect her life, she really wouldn't need rain boots - although they could be valuable if sold, but Sometimes, it does not mean that money is everything, and it is indeed sensitive now. Too big a move is likely to attract the attention of the court.

"Can that be done?" Li Xiaohan asked. She knew that craftsmen in ancient times were ingenious and could turn mud into ceramics, and now they might be able to do miracles as well.

After all, bulletproof tires and run-proof tires also exist in modern industry.

"It's a little better than ordinary cloth and paper armor, but not as good as Mingguang, chainmail and other iron armor." Zhang Fu said.

Li Xiaohan frowned and thought for a moment. Later generations of bulletproof tires seemed to be full of holes, so he tried to say: "Can you make the Eucommia rubber armor into holes one after another?" , so that the elasticity of Eucommia gum can relieve the force of the attack."

Although this era is the era of cold weapons, Li Xiaohan learned from Doctor Zhang and others that real swords that cut iron like clay are actually scarce goods, and low-level soldiers are actually more injured by impact than external injuries. Many times, a soldier's sternum may be broken, but the trauma is actually not that deep.

Li Xiaohan, a layman, said it in a daze, but Zhang Fu and Old Uncle Zhong, the experts, brightened up when they heard it, "You can give it a try."

After receiving the affirmation, Li Xiaohan felt that his brain was coming together , "Or, wrap a layer of fine wire mesh in Eucommia gum, or add a piece of plate armor to the chest."

This is also the inspiration Li Xiaohan got from steel wire tires.

In the past, she always thought in terms of modern thinking, and felt that she couldn't apply it so deeply at this time. Now, if she changes the direction, it would be good to make a breastplate.

Zhang Fu's eyes brightened even more, "I'll send someone to test it immediately."

Due to Li Xiaohan's suggestion, the experiment of Eucommia gum at Dingcheng military supplies craftsmen made significant progress. The craftsmen all felt that Li Xiaohan's seemingly fantastic idea was very practical, and strongly requested to see Li Xiaohan in person for discussion. .

Li Xiaohan herself also feels that the localization of Eucommia gum is a long-term undertaking. She does not know much about this area and should communicate more with the skilled craftsmen of this era. Not only It is for military use, and maybe it can also be used for civilian purposes to get more inspiration, so that she can have more ideas for making money in the future - after all, she has planted more than a thousand acres of Eucommia ulmoides. Will continue to expand.

Therefore, Li Xiaohan traveled between Pingshan Village and Fucheng more frequently - she was indispensable in both places, and she could not live in the same place permanently.

On this day, Li Xiaohan and Old Uncle Zhong were riding horses on the road from Pingshan Village to Fucheng. At a corner, Old Uncle Zhong's face suddenly changed, his hand moved slightly, and the knife that had been at his side all year round was unsheathed. .

"Miss Li, turn the horse's head and go back."

Li Xiaohan immediately understood what was going on, pulled the reins, turned the horse's head and walked back quickly - Old Uncle Zhong's sword never came out of its sheath easily.

However, it was almost too late. Two groups of people were soon chasing after them. Among them, the one in front was wearing ordinary clothes and looked like it was quite difficult to escape. The ones chasing behind were uniformly wearing navy blue guard clothes. Regardless of the number of people behind them, The martial arts looks a bit stronger.

Seeing Li Xiaohan and the two, the people in front quickly caught up with them - the horse had a short dagger stuck in its butt, which was an escape method that completely ignored the horse, and the people behind were almost catching up. , but two people separated and wanted to intercept and kill Li Xiaohan and Old Uncle Zhong.

Even passers-by wanted to silence him.

Old Uncle Zhong protected Li Xiaohan, and there was a melee between the three parties.

In the chaos, swords were flying. Old Uncle Zhong was very powerful in martial arts, but it was quite difficult for one against many.

There is smoke everywhere again, and I don't know who set it off.

Li Xiaohan gradually felt weak, and quickly seized an opportunity, lightly kicked the horse's belly, and ran out. Old Uncle Zhong tacitly protected her.

After running for a while, Li Xiaohan gradually stopped and ran into a dense forest in a panic. At this time, he couldn't tell where he was in the chaos.

"Miss Li?"

"Who?" Li Xiaohan said loudly, secretly holding the dagger given by Zhang Fu with one hand.

A person and a horse gradually walked out of the dense forest. It was a middle-aged man who was seriously injured. He was wearing very ordinary clothes, but it could not hide the aura on his body.

Li Xiaohan took a look at the wounds on the man's body and held the dagger in his hand tighter.

"Miss Li, is that you? Miss Li from Dingcheng White Wax? Miss Li who cooperated with Dingwang Military Supply Company and provided alcohol, allicin and styptic powder?" The visitor was vomiting blood while talking.

Li Xiaohan didn't say anything, but still looked at him warily.

However, the visitor took Li Xiaohan's silence as acquiescence and continued: "Miss Li, we are the escort team under King Qi. We have something that needs to be handed over to King Ding. Please help us, Miss Li."

=== Chapter === 177

What King Qi wants to give to King Ding sounds like it is very important.

However, Li Xiaohan cherished her life very much. This kind of thing was too risky, so she refused to do it, "You have the wrong person. I am not."

He didn't even blink when he denied it.

The visitor obviously did not expect that Li Xiaohan was so vigilant. He paused, took out an iron plate with a simple Chinese character "Qi" on it, and then continued to explain, "Miss Li, I have the strongest ears and the best eyesight among the guards. , the best in escape skills, so I hid the things on my body. Earlier, your guard called you Miss Li, and walked back; then your guard used the martial arts of the Dingcheng military, experienced on the battlefield of life and death. A good hand came out. Miss Li, we ran for our lives all the way and rushed to Dingcheng in a roundabout way. We really have something important. We hope that Miss Li can help us."

He thought that the identity issue aroused Li Xiaohan's suspicion.

Li Xiaohan frowned, her identity had been guessed, and there was no point in denying it, but it didn't mean that she would take over this hot potato - she didn't know what King Qi was going to give to King Ding. But if it causes her to lose her life, that is absolutely unacceptable.

"You have also seen that I have no martial arts skills, and the only guard is still in Duanhou. I really can't help you. Now that you are outside Ding City, go quickly."

"We couldn't find a trusted contact person and were hunted down all the way. Our information must be leaked. This thing must be handed over to King Ding personally. Miss Li has no contact with us and has a close relationship with Dingcheng. On the contrary, A person worthy of trust." The visitor said with a wry smile.

Li Xiaohan was even more speechless. For such a big matter, he was not even sure whether the person he was talking to was a human or a ghost. He even asked her to lead the way. What if he took her to hell with him. No!

"I can't help you, you go away." Li Xiaohan said, turning the horse's head and trying to get out of the dense forest.

But the guards of King Qi were following Li Xiaohan closely, and Li Xiaohan couldn't get rid of them.

Li Xiaohan was about to turn around and tell this person not to follow him, but saw that his face suddenly became anxious, "They are catching up."

"Leave quickly." Li Xiaohan remembered that this man had said that his ears were particularly good. What bad luck.

"It's too late. There are at least the sounds of four horses." The look on the guard of King Qi's face became more and more solemn, "Miss Li, this thing is very important. You can help us deliver it to King Ding. I will divert the people away." "

Seeing that Li Xiaohan was motionless, the visitor had no choice but to say the last bargaining chip, "Miss Li, this is the map of King Qi's secret treasury."

Li Xiaohan's heart shrank and his eyes narrowed slightly: The fiefdom of King Qi is known as the prosperous place second only to Jiangnan. King Qi had been crowned king for more than ten years. If his secret vault had not been found by the court and he would have sent his trusted followers all the way to deliver it to King Ding, it would have been a huge fortune.

King Qi, who was said to be greedy for pleasure and without much talent, posed a problem to King Ding and the court before his death - with the map of the secret library, even if King Ding died of illness immediately, the court would not believe in King Ding's lineage; and King Ding Being put on a beam, and the only shortcoming made up, King Ding, with his ability and temperament, will definitely rebel.

As expected of the late emperor, the son he gave birth to did not have a fuel-efficient lamp. When he died, he would leave a big trouble for the emperor's nephew.

However, King Ding really needs this secret treasury.

Just like a narration sounded in Li Xiaohan's ears: War is a vicious beast that eats meat. It almost requires the power of a country to support it. A war can take away the vitality of the people for several years; or, war can also be used Another way to provide support is to use war to support war and capture a city. Everything in this city is raw material...

Many thoughts seemed to come to mind, but instinct had already reached out.

It has a light touch, is sealed with fire paint, and is still stained with wet blood.

Li Xiaohan's mood was very complicated.

"Miss Li, you go, I will stay and cover you." King Qi's guard looked at Li Xiaohan and warned, "It must be handed over to King Ding."

"Wait, give me your token."

The guard handed the token to Li Xiaohan. Li Xiaohan took it and just said, "I will try my best." Then he immediately rode off.

"drive!"

Not daring to think about what would happen behind the scenes, and unable to discern the road ahead, Li Xiaohan carried this heavy letter in his arms and began to flee.

"Little clever man, avoid those bad guys and go to a crowded place." Li Xiaohan lowered his head and said to the horse under him. At this time, we can only rely on luck. Little Smart has been following me for almost three years, I hope it understands what I mean.

You can't go into the mountains. Li Xiaohan knows his own weight. Running into the mountains is no joke. All kinds of poisonous snakes and beasts are no joke. The chance of accidentally dying is only a fingernail less than the chance of catching up.

On the contrary, wherever there are people, those running after King Qi's guards should be people from the imperial court. They haven't found the letter yet, so they probably don't dare to announce it loudly, so finding the crowd as soon as possible and delivering the letter to King Ding is her only chance of survival.

Li Xiaohan secretly prayed that the little clever spirit could take him out of this land of rice. Unfortunately, the little clever spirit ran briskly and became more and more remote.

Li Xiaohan was almost desperate. Unexpectedly, when he turned a corner, a winding path appeared in front of him, with four load-bearers walking in front of him.

Woohoo, Li Xiaohan almost shed tears.

"Definitely." Driving the horse to run lightly, Li Xiaohan chased after him. He was actually an acquaintance, "Old Liu Tou!"

"Miss Li, why are you here?!" Old Liu Tou was the vegetable farmer who first harvested garlic with Li Xiaohan. He was shocked when he saw Li Xiaohan in a state of embarrassment and appearing alone in this barren mountain wilderness.

"I'm being chased. How can I get out of here?" Li Xiaohan said as he glanced at these men with his peripheral vision. He saw that their faces were honest, their expressions were anxious and worried, and they looked somewhat similar to Old Liu Tou. Xiang felt a little relieved - after all, meeting four grown men in the wild was also very dangerous for a young woman like her.

"Miss Li, go forward here, go around the foot of the mountain, and cross the waterway. It is a small road out of the city. Even for people who are not familiar with the road, it is difficult to go around it." Old Liu Tou said in embarrassment.

If Miss Li is asked to go out alone, Miss Li may not be able to go around, but their brother can't catch up with the horse.

Li Xiaohan gritted his teeth. The risk of being discovered on such a journey was too great, so why not try another method, "Where are you going? What are you doing?"

"We went to a village to collect garlic. Nowadays, garlic in the city is more expensive. It is more cost-effective to collect it here. We can also sell some needles and thread tails." Old Liu Tou explained.

Sure enough, Li Xiaohan saw that they all carried some groceries, and seeing that the four of them were walking together, no wonder they dared to enter the mountain.

"Is the place you are going far far? How are the people there? Do you know them well?"

"It's not far. I know their village chief very well, and the village chief is a very nice person." Old Liu Tou said quickly.

"Can you hide me there? Then you send people to the Qing Gang and ask the Qing Gang leader or Ma Wu to come and rescue me?" Li Xiaohan bit his lips and said.

Lao Liutou and his friends always deliver their garlic to the Qinggang shop, and they are more familiar with the Qinggang.

Now she has no choice. She can't wander here for a long time. The longer she stays, the greater the chance of being overtaken and the more danger she will encounter.

"Okay. If Miss Li believes in us, just leave it to our brothers. We are all familiar with the mountain roads."

Li Xiaohan jumped off the horse and said, "Sorry to trouble you. When I get through this, I will thank you all again."

"Miss Li, don't say such polite words." Old Liu said bluntly, "Third brother, second brother, you hurry back to the city. You must find Gang Leader Qing and Brother Ma Wu and ask them to take people as soon as possible. come over."

"Hey, big brother."

"Hey, brother-in-law."

The two people said quickly, turned around and walked down the mountain.

"Little Clever," Li Xiaohan patted the horse on his body, touched the horse's ears and whispered, "Go and find old Uncle Zhong. You can go back as you came, you know?" ?"

The horse's head shook slightly, and I didn't know if I could understand it.

Li Xiaohan calmed down, took out his riding crop, whipped it hard, and the horse galloped back along the way it came.

Since she wanted to hide, she would be too conspicuous with her horse; and if she was caught up, according to her riding skills, there would be no one to guard the rear, and she would not be able to outrun a well-trained guard.

So the best way is to put the horse back and disrupt the line of sight.

If the little clever guy can go back to the place where the accident happened, he can find old Uncle Zhong.

Or, Zhang Fu, who had been waiting for him for a long time, should have sent someone to look for him, and then he might encounter Xiao Ji.

"Miss Li, come with us." Old Liu Tou said, taking the lead and hurried forward.

—Li Xiaohan put away his thoughts and followed closely. Fortunately, I have been exercising in the past few years, otherwise I would not be able to run fast for my life.

The two old men, Liu Tou and Li Xiaohan, walked around the path for about half an hour. Finally, they came to a small village and touched the back of the largest house.

"Village Chief Wu, Chief Wu." Old Liu knocked lightly on the door.

"Who is it?" A loud voice came from inside the house.

"It's me, Old Liu Tou."

Li Xiaohan heard footsteps approaching from far away, and then the door creaked open, and a rather heroic man came out, frowning and asked, "Old Liutou, you came to the back door of my house like this."

Li Xiaohan quietly clenched the dagger in his sleeve.

"Village Chief Wu, go in first and then talk." Old Liu Tou said first as he went in, followed closely by Li Xiaohan.

The backyard is very simple, with a donkey in the livestock shed, a lot of garlic and a few common vegetables planted in the vegetable patch, and a row of ash trees surrounding the wall.

Village Chief Wu looked at Li Xiaohan who was following him, frowned, but still closed the door, "Old Liu Tou, what's going on?"

"Village Chief Wu, this is my noble lady. She is being chased and wants to hide quietly in your house." Old Liu Tou said sincerely.

"Old Liutou, have you caused some big trouble? I'm telling you, don't get in trouble..." Village Chief Wu looked at the three of them very unhappily. He spoke in rapid succession, but suddenly stopped. Stopped, "Miss Li?"

"Do you know me?" Li Xiaohan asked doubtfully.

Just now, she put a handful of yellow mud on her face on the side of the road to reduce her risk as much as possible - in this half-hunting and half-farming village in the barren mountains, a good-looking young girl is a temptation in itself. She couldn't count on the guarantee of Lao Liutou and the others.

"Miss Li, come with me." Village Chief Wu's attitude immediately changed and he quickly led the way, "Of course I recognize you, Miss Li. Every village chief followed you that spring. You've learned how to raise white wax worms, but you've forgotten."

"I also learned how to boil white wax oil. My mother said it was very useful." Village Chief Wu said as he led the way. He quickly came to the woodshed at the back and opened a board underneath, "Miss Li. , you hide in and be careful. There is a lot of garlic down there, so don't be afraid."

Li Xiaohan thought of the row of ash trees in the backyard he had just seen, nodded, and climbed down neatly.

"Miss Li, no matter what noise you hear, don't come out. Not many people know about this cellar." Village Chief Wu warned, "I have to call the villagers back. There is strength in numbers." "

"They have weapons. If they come after them, don't touch them head-on." After a pause, Li Xiaohan warned again, "Just delay as much as possible. Someone will come to save me."

"Okay, I understand, Miss Li, those of us who eat in the mountains are not just eating dry food."

It was indeed a very small cellar. Li Xiaohan huddled inside, watching the wooden boards above his head being covered and the light gone.

Then there was the sound of moving firewood, which they had apparently used to cover the exit. After a while, the footsteps above my head gradually faded away, and I vaguely heard a shout of collecting garlic, but it didn't seem to be there.

The cellar was small and dark, with almost no fingers visible. Li Xiaohan could only hear the deafening sound of his own heartbeat in the silence.

After listening attentively for a while, there was no sound nearby. Perhaps because he gradually adapted to the darkness, Li Xiaohan could vaguely see a lot of garlic piled around him.

After thinking about it, Li Xiaohan touched a head of garlic, then took out the dagger in his arms and used it to pound the garlic on the ground - the dagger was very sharp and easy to use. Soon the garlic was chopped into pieces, and the smell of garlic filled the air. The air in the cellar smells really bad.

In the darkness, Li Xiaohan seemed not to notice, and continued to pound the garlic vigorously. Finally, he took out the precious letter paper from his arms and put the garlic paste on it - watch the TV series, how can people in the imperial court pursue this? For a long time, maybe there is some signal that the people in King Qi's escort team are being tracked. It may be scent or some unique clue. This letter might be stained on it too.

She couldn't believe that the garlic smell was so strong, and there was no other scent or clue that could be traced.

Li Xiaohan didn't care that the original tall letter was in a mess. What was important was the map inside. As for the outside, it was not easy to deliver it to King Ding.

He scribbled the letter carefully all over - even if the original guard came, he might not be able to recognize the letter.

Li Xiaohan took the letter and thought about it. He didn't stuff the letter back into his arms. With the slight sense of light, Li Xiao looked around - it was too small. Li Xiaohan could only choose a corner. Then he started digging a hole with his dagger. The dagger was really sharp, and he quickly dug a hole. Li Xiaohan buried the letter in it, then carefully covered it with soil, and finally threw in two dried vegetable leaves - in case she was unfortunately caught, she said I don't have any letterhead, so I don't know if I can delay it for a while.

After doing all this, Li Xiaohan only felt burning pain in her hands. She sat down quietly, motionless, thinking about the loopholes she had exposed during her escape. Which part is exposed, and how long will it take for the people from the court to catch up?

How long will it take for Old Liu to find the person he is looking for?

How long will it take for old Uncle Zhong and Zhang Fu to find her?

If she is caught, what should she do to delay as much time as possible?

While thinking about it, Li Xiaohan opened the inside of her skirt and slowly wiped the dagger clean with the lining of her skirt. Then she wiped off all the mud on her hands and groped for the mud between her fingernails - as if she had never There is no hole dug or earth buried in this cellar.

In the silent and dark cellar, apart from the little movements of picking at his fingernails, Li Xiaohan was like an emotionless statue, quietly listening to the sounds of the outside world.

=== Chapter === 178

During this long and silent waiting, I don't know how long it took, but noisy sounds gradually came.

As if he had been waiting for it, the boot upstairs finally fell to the ground.

The noise suddenly became louder, and then there was a sudden scream, and then a woman's cry.

Li Xiaohan stood up suddenly, but her motionless posture made her feet numb, and she staggered and almost fell.

She tried to climb out, but found that Village Chief Wu had blocked the entrance of the cave a bit tightly. It took her a long time to get a crack open.

The pleading and begging for mercy outside the door became louder.

Li Xiaohan took a deep breath,

"Someone, please lift this lid for me."

"Someone is coming!"

It suddenly became silent for a moment, and then the sound of footsteps gradually came here, the firewood above was kicked away, and the lid was lifted.

"Don't do anything rash, otherwise I won't guarantee that you will still get the complete thing."

Li Xiaohan said calmly while climbing up to the exit.

The sun was bright, and a sharp sword as cold as autumn water, brighter than the sun, approached Li Xiaohan's neck, "Girl, hand over this thing."

Li Xiaohan ignored it, and even moved his neck slightly and raised his head. His neck was more exposed to the sword. He narrowed his eyes slightly and looked at the sunlight outside the door. "I've been in the dark for a long time." , I can't see clearly because of the shaking. Hold your sword steady, if you hurt me, who will lose it?"

After staying in a dark place for a long time, when you see the light, it may be too bright to see clearly. The person holding the sword was obviously experienced and did not remove the sword, but moved it a little.

Li Xiaohan quietly squinted at the sun until he could clearly see where the sun was now.

It was chenshizhong (eight o'clock) when she left home. When she met these people on the road and started running for her life, it was about sishichu (nine o'clock). It should not have been sishizhong (nine-thirty) when she met Lao Liutou. (ten o'clock), now the sun is almost at the zenith, it should be noon (twelve o'clock).

She hid for more than an hour, if it weren't for the powerful brother who cut off the queen and disrupted her sight, or if her luck hadn't been too bad.

At this time, Lao Liutou's two brothers should have found the Qing Gang. If everything goes well, they will be almost out of the city gate now.

I usually arrive at Fucheng around a quarter to four o'clock on weekdays. Zhang Fu waits for two quarters of an hour, but no one is there, so he should be able to realize that something happened. However, Zhang Fu needed to go all the way back to investigate. He was unable to determine where the accident happened to him, and the time to find him was too uncertain.

I wonder what's going on with old Uncle Zhong? Injured, dead, or escaped, we can't be sure. But as long as he is not dead, he will come back to find him. I hope that old Uncle Zhong and Zhang Fu can meet each other, so that the scope can at least be narrowed down.

"Girl, you've been watching for long enough, so you can see clearly."

Li Xiaohan sighed leisurely, "The thing is not on me. I will tell you only when I see Village Chief Wu and the others are safe and sound."

"Don't play tricks." The sharp sword on his neck scratched a trace of blood, and a small amount of blood flowed out. Unfortunately, Li Xiaohan didn't seem to be afraid of pain.

The guards immediately came over to search him. Li Xiaohan remained motionless, as if he was not the one being searched. Nonsense, at this time, he was still seeking privacy and asked for a different woman to search him.

However, the people from the imperial court were also very professional in searching him. Soon they even found the dagger in Li Xiaohan's sleeve, as well as bottles and money bags. Naturally, there was no letterhead.

"Tell me, where is the thing?" The sharp sword on his neck moved forward again, and the blood stain became deeper.

"Give me back my things. I can't tell you until I see Village Chief Wu and the others." Li Xiaohan stretched out his hand.

There was silence for a moment, and the two sides were in a stalemate.

Li Xiaohan softened his voice and said seductively, "I'm already in your hands. It's just these two small requests. If you fulfill them, I will naturally tell you."

"Hmph." The leading guard sneered and waved slightly. One of the guards went out and brought back a small animal that looked like both a fox and a monkey. He put it on Li Xiaohan and sniffed it.

This little animal only circled around Li Xiaohan for a few weeks, then sniffed around the room, and finally trotted into the cellar...

Li Xiaohan breathed a sigh of relief, but his face was calm and calm, so calm that it was impossible to tell.

A quarter of an hour later, the little animal trotted out and ran back to the guard's arms.

It seems that it was not found.

"You believe it now. I have already collected the things."

"take away."

The leader of the guards gave the order, and soon someone pulled Li Xiaohan out of the room and outside.

I saw Old Liu lying on the ground with his head covered in blood. Village Chief Wu had a broken hand and was being pressed to the side. cut.

"Girl!" Seeing Li Xiaohan being pressed out, Village Chief Wu said with a pale face and trembling lips.

"Did anything happen to other villagers?"

"No, I was just suppressed." Village Chief Wu replied.

Li Xiaohan secretly breathed a sigh of relief. "Give me back my things. There are medicines in them. I'll tell you as soon as the bleeding stops."

"Give it back to her."

Li Xiaohan grabbed a small bottle and wanted to go to Village Chief Wu.

"Don't move." The sharp sword across her neck blocked her.

"Styptic powder. Give him two uses." Li Xiaohan took a breath and said as calmly as possible.

"You can't move." The guard frowned, very impatient, "Find someone to come out and give him two uses."

The older woman next to her stood up and took the styptic powder from Li Xiaohan's hand. Li Xiaohan twisted it open and handed it over. The old woman, Xu, was from an Orion family and was quite experienced in dealing with wounds. She tore off a strip of cloth and tied it tightly to Village Chief Wu's arm, and then carefully sprinkled styptic powder on it.

"Say it." The guard moved his sword towards Li Xiaohan's neck.

"At the place where I separated from the man in blue, if you ride a horse and go west, you will see a small stream with many stones on the side. I was pressed under the stones."

The guard handed his sword forward and said, "It's not there."

Li Xiaohan closed his eyes and said loudly: "How is it possible? There is the token you are looking for buried under the stone, and there is a pile of cow dung next to it, and there is a letter buried next to the cow dung. That is my horse. I'm going to retrieve the dung that I pulled out with my horse leading the way. There's no shortage of both, so I'll tell you all."

Nonsense, I haven't even mentioned the stone yet, you already know it's gone. Of course I know that what you want is the letterhead and not the token. If you don't give it a try, how will you find out whether the gadget you brought has found the place?

All I need is for you to be dubious.

If you delay a little longer, the rescuers should arrive.

Obviously the guards did not expect to bury it next to the cow dung pile, but they did find the token under the stone. Could it be that it was really next to the cow dung pile?

"You take us there, and if we can't find it, I'll kill you on the spot." The guard sneered.

"I can go with you, but I'm careful. You'll wipe out everyone in this village as soon as I leave."

The chief guard did not refute.

"Actually, I said that there is no need for you to silence me because I am afraid that your whereabouts will be exposed, but in fact it is not necessary. My name is Li Xiaohan. Maybe you have heard of my name, or maybe you have heard of me. You can ask around when the time comes. I am the discoverer of Dingcheng styptic powder, allicin and alcohol, and now my people should have discovered that I am missing."

At this moment, Li Xiaohan hoped that his fame would be bigger and bigger. Sure enough, the guard leader's eyes dimmed and he glanced at the styptic powder that the old woman used for Village Chief Wu - the effect was very good, Village Chief Wu and Old Liu The bleeding from the head has stopped.

"Miss Li, I have long admired your name."

Li Xiaohan breathed a sigh of relief and continued to persuade, "We who plant medicine to save people, pay attention to the natural cycle of retribution, and never want to owe someone's life on our own. Let them go, and I will cooperate and follow you." . It is difficult for you to escape from Dingcheng. If you take me as a hostage, you will have a chance. Take me back. I should be of some use to the masters behind you and it will be another credit. You kill them. , I can't keep my mouth shut, but once I find out, I will keep causing trouble for you in the future."

At least until I find the letter, I'm still safe. I hope they don't dare to confront me head-on. Li Xiaohan thought and calculated in his heart, hoping that his calculations were correct.

The scattered guards looked at the leader. They were indeed exposed. It was no longer necessary to kill these villagers. It might even do more harm than good. The leader quickly made a decision, "Take her away."

The guards pulled Li Xiaohan onto the horse and ran all the way. This group of people had obviously seen the place Li Xiaohan mentioned. During the shuttle, they quickly found the place Li Xiaohan mentioned.

Of course there are stones, but there are no tokens, they have been taken away; there are also cow dung, but there is no letter paper, there never was.

"How is it possible? I'm buried underneath. It's impossible. Are you looking in the wrong place? Look again." Li Xiaohan turned around, lifting the stone up and down, and the cow dung pile also disappeared. Turn it over with a stick.

"Miss Li, stop playing tricks." With a fierce sword intent, Li Xiaohan added another wound on his neck, and the blood flowed faster and deeper than before, "Speak quickly. Although we can't take your life Life, but you can still ask for other things. For example, a hand."

From the corner of his eye, Li Xiaohan only saw the sword-wielding man twisting his wrist, and his heart tightened: These people have a habit of breaking people's arms, and he was going to become a female version of the one-armed Yang Guo.

The pupils opened slightly, and sure enough, the sword light turned and stabbed straight at her. Time seemed to be extremely fast and extremely slow.

And at this moment, a faster sharp light came through the air and hit the sword holder's wrist directly.

His wrists were dripping with blood, and the guard's sword was shot down. He had to change his sword to his palm, hoping to catch Li Xiaohan.

Unfortunately, another arrow shot through the air at this time, approaching the guard's face. The guard had no choice but to move away to avoid the arrow.

All the guards moved and rushed towards the direction of the sharp arrow.

Li Xiaohan didn't know who was coming, but she knew that she couldn't wait any longer. If she was caught again, the rescuers would become very passive.

Quickly squatting down, Li Xiaohan aimed at the route and prepared to escape.

The guard who had previously threatened Li Xiaohan obviously thought so too. After several attempts to dodge and dodge, there was a pop, the sound of an arrow piercing his flesh. The guard faced the danger of being hit by an arrow and grabbed Li Xiaohan, who was squatting on the ground in fright, with his left hand. Xiaohan...

The eyes that turned around were colder than the night, and the guard's instinct of life and death for many years alerted him to danger.

No, this is not a look of weakness and fear!

Unfortunately, it was too late. A ray of light swung out from Li Xiaohan's wrist and went straight to the guard's neck and throat...

The distance was too close, the dagger was too sharp, and he lost because he was really unprepared.

The blood splattered all over Li Xiaohan. She closed her eyes.

The real place of death is between the throat and the carotid artery, not the side of the neck.

I've always known it.

=== Chapter === 179

With a gentle "bang", the guard fell to the ground, blood gurgling from his throat, unable to make any questioning sound, and his pupils gradually dilated.

She's obviously just a girl who doesn't understand martial arts.

Li Xiaohan only glanced at it and wiped the blood on his face. At this moment, all the guards rushed over and fought fiercely with the rescuers. No one stopped Li Xiaohan. She quickly hid behind a big rock.

Her heartbeat was beating fast, as if it was about to jump out, and the smell of blood on her face was so strong that it made people dizzy. It seemed to remind Li Xiaohan all the time that she had committed a murder.

It doesn't matter, this is ancient times. If you don't kill him, he will take off one of your arms. No, if you miss a hit, he will definitely kill you.

So I did nothing wrong! Just trying to survive!

Trying to calm down, Li Xiaohan hid behind the stone and looked out. Unfortunately, between the flashes of swords and shadows, Li Xiaohan couldn't tell which side had the upper hand. He could only look around to see where he could escape— Unfortunately, there seems to be no better way than staying away from the battlefield, protecting yourself, and waiting for the outcome to be decided.

Fortunately, fate still favored Li Xiaohan. The sound of fighting attracted people around him, and Li Xiaohan gradually saw that those who came were Zhang Fu's people...

The tense mind could finally relax a little. Li Xiaohan felt the smell of blood again and wanted to vomit...

"Let me see your injury?" Zhang Fu's anxious voice brought Li Xiaohan back to his mind.

After focusing for three seconds, he saw the face in front of him clearly and reacted. Li Xiaohan turned his head to the side and couldn't help but hiss in pain - the guard's sword in the end was not fatal. However, the injury was also very deep. Only then did Li Xiaohan realize that a large area of his clothes had been soaked on the side where he had been stabbed.

Zhang Fu turned his head slightly to the side and lowered his head. One hand gently pressed Li Xiaohan's neck, and the other hand gently pulled down the skirt of his clothes to observe the injury.

"The injury is a bit deep, please bear with me, I will give you medicine first." Zhang Fu reached out and took out the medicine bottle from his arms, and said with comfort, "No vital parts were hurt, don't worry."

"Yeah." Li Xiaohan reluctantly twitched the corner of his mouth.

From the moment the guard only dared to hurt the vital parts of her neck, she knew that as long as the letter was not found, no one in the court would dare to kill her.

It was because of this that she was able to grasp these guards half-truthfully and half-falsely.

"Don't force yourself. You can be afraid."

Li Xiaohan shook slightly unconsciously, and suddenly felt a soreness in his eyes and nostrils.

Zhang Fu paused for a moment, then turned his head and carefully applied the medicine to Li Xiaohan.

The familiar smell of medicinal powder spread, covering up part of the smell of blood.

The medicinal powder gently fell on the wound, first causing a stinging sensation, and then slowly giving off a feeling of coldness.

After Zhang Fu applied the medicine, he pulled open the hem of his clothes and with a tearing sound, a long piece of moon-white silk was torn off and tied gently around Li Xiaohan's neck.

"Close your eyes."

Li Xiaohan closed her eyes obediently, only to feel a cotton handkerchief covering her face, from her forehead to her eyebrows to the corners of her eyes to the side of her face, carefully wiping away the sticky and wet blood on her face.

Finally, Li Xiaohan was given a gentle and cherishing hug.

"Okay, it's okay." Opening his eyes, Zhang Fu had returned to normal, "Take some allicin first to prevent fever?"

"Sure." Li Xiaohan nodded. The side of her neck had been cut several times with a sword. She climbed into the cellar and broke into the forest. It is very likely that the wound would be infected. It's okay to eat it first, by yourself. Don't lose this little life again.

After giving the medicine, Old Uncle Zhong and the others also came over.

"They are from the imperial court." Old Uncle Zhong said.

"Tie him up first and take him back for interrogation."

"They are looking for something. It is here with me. I have hidden it. Let's go and get it now." Li Xiaohan stood up holding the stone and said.

"What is it? Let someone get it. Let's go back first. We still have to ask Doctor Zhang to take a look at it." Zhang Fu said with a frown.

"It's a very important thing. The guard of King Qi gave it to me and said it must be handed over to the prince. We will go back and get it ourselves." Li Xiaohan insisted, having walked ninety-nine steps out of a hundred. Why fall short?

King Qi's stuff!

Zhang Fu's pupils shrank slightly, his face became serious, then he hesitated, and finally looked at Li Xiaohan's wound, "Is it far?"

"It's not far, let's go." Li Xiaohan looked around, but for a moment, he didn't know which horse to sit on. "I wonder how the little clever one is? I'll let him go back the way he came. I don't know. Does it know the road?"

Seeing Li Xiaohan's insistence, Zhang Fu had no choice but to get on his horse and stretched out his hand to signal Li Xiaohan to ride with him, "Little Clever is very smart and will find it back. If it doesn't work, we'll send someone to search like this." Search and find the little clever one."

"Yeah." Li Xiaohan followed the force and got on the horse. He identified it and found the way he came. "Go that way."

The road became more and more familiar as we walked, and the face of the bound guard became darker and darker - this was clearly the road back to that small village.

"There is the sound of horse hooves ahead." Before reaching the village entrance, Old Uncle Zhong frowned. This small village in the remote mountains and wilderness could not afford to raise horses. Something is abnormal.

The group of people stopped and Qingsong stepped forward to take a look. At that moment, the people inside also came out on horseback.

"He's from the Qing Gang."

They are friends, not enemies.

"Miss Li, we are late." Gang Leader Qing looked at Li Xiaohan and said apologetically.

"Thank you for coming. Are the people in the village okay? I was afraid they would kill a carbine."

"It's okay. We have also seen the injured village chief and old Liu Tou. There is no danger to their lives for the time being, but they said they need to find you, Miss Li, first." People from the Qing Gang have been walking outside all year round, licking blood from their swords and living on the knife edge. This kind of trauma has a hand.

"Let me go and take a look." Li Xiaohan said worriedly.

The group of people returned to Village Chief Wu's home. Village Chief Wu and Old Liu Tou were lying on the bed made of wooden doors. Their faces were very pale. They were obviously relieved to see Li Xiaohan back.

"Miss Li."

"I'm sorry for causing trouble to you. We will go to Fucheng for treatment later." Li Xiaohan said softly.

Village Chief Wu lost one of his hands, and Lao Liu's head was hurt so badly. These were all beyond Li Xiaohan's expectation. The only thing she can do now is to try her best to heal them.

"I'm very happy to be able to do something for Miss Li." Village Chief Wu said

"Me... too." Old Liu had a head injury on his chest and it was a bit difficult to speak.

Li Xiaohan felt choked and nodded. She would always get huge feedback from these people with whom she had only a slight connection. This feedback was beyond her expectation, and it also let her know that what she had done in the past was really beneficial to people. Useful and worth it.

He led the people to the cellar, "The thing is buried under two dry vegetable leaves on the right. Be careful, it's letter paper."

Qingsong climbed down gently, but after a while, he climbed out again and handed over a letter - a dirty, garlic-smelling, wrinkled letter.

"Only found this." Qingsong said slightly uneasily. He couldn't believe that this was the extremely important thing that King Qi gave to King Ding.

"Yes, that's it." Li Xiaohan took it and shook it casually, but failed to shake off the soil on it.

Zhang Fu took out his handkerchief, took it, wiped it clean, and saw clearly the lacquer seal - it was King Qi's seal. He nodded and handed it to Li Xiaohan.

Li Xiaohan took the letter and stuffed it into his arms, "Let's go."

Now that the letter is back and the person is tied up, we can go back and deal with the aftermath.

That is, when I encounter some temporary obstacles, "I want to follow my father, I want to follow my father."

The seven or eight-year-old boy who was hugged earlier seemed to be frightened and cried. He kept pulling at Village Chief Wu's door and refused to leave.

"How about taking away all the members of Village Chief Wu's family? Otherwise, the people who stay at home won't be worried."

Li Xiaohan looked at the two women before. The younger one should be Village Chief Wu's wife, carrying luggage and preparing to follow him to take care of Village Chief Wu. The older one should be Village Chief Wu's mother. Trying to pull away the child who was holding on to the door panel.

"Okay. Qingsong, you take care of these things." The elderly and children have been taken back, and food and accommodation must be arranged for them.

"Yes, Second Young Master."

The group returned to Fucheng and went straight to Renhetang. Doctor Zhang was already waiting beside them. He treated everyone's wounds first and confirmed that none of them were in danger of life. However, both Village Chief Wu and Old Liu Tou had to take a good rest.

And because King Ding was already bedridden due to illness, Li Xiaohan quietly followed Zhang Fu into the palace in a small sedan until almost night.

"See you, Your Majesty." Li Xiaohan followed Zhang Fu and saluted in the same manner.

"Get up quickly."

Because he had to pretend to be sick and look realistic, King Ding was much thinner at the moment. For a general to be so hungry, he could be considered very cruel; I don't know if it was paint on his face or something else. The thing looks dry and waxy.

Only the look in his eyes declared that this was not a patient, but a general who had been trained in war.

Li Xiaohan stood up after Zhang Fu, took out the letter from his arms and handed it out. King Ding was not defensive or disgusted. He looked at the paint, nodded and said, "It's King Qi's seal."

Zhang Fu handed Wang the scissors, and Wang gently cut the seal open, took out the oil paper inside and unfolded it on the desk - Li Xiaohan only dared to glance at it, a very detailed map. , four of which are marked with red circles with cinnabar.

After a while, King Ding continued to ask, "What did the guard who gave it to you say?"

"When he handed it to me, he said that this is the map of King Qi's secret treasury, and he asked me to hand it over to you. Also," Li Xiaohan frowned and added, "They should have been betrayed. Connect the head People couldn't believe it."

King Ding frowned, thought for a while, and continued to ask, "Do you think you can believe it?"

"I don't know," Li Xiaohan said. What if it's fake and she guesses wrong? By bringing the things over, her mission would be complete.

"You don't need to be so cautious. I know that you have always been a rare smart person. Come to think of it, this person is very thoughtful." The helpless king continued to insist.

"The imperial guards who were chasing me valued this thing very much. When they threatened me, they didn't dare to point their fingers at the vital points." Li Xiaohan thought for a while and said what he could.

"Yes, that makes sense." King Ding nodded and asked, "Where are you, Chengan?"

"The matter of King Qi was handled too quickly. Our people didn't have time to react at all." Zhang Fu said, "But according to what we later found out, King Qi burned himself to death. On the same day, the palace In the chaos, many officials fled. The concubines of the King of Qi are still being tightly detained, and the people in the court have not left. This should be because they are still dealing with the follow-up. The King of Qi is not too big The power that the court has been pursuing is only the wealth accumulated over the years. Wei Chen believes that it is 70% credible."

"Well, everything you said makes sense." King Ding sighed, "I have known since I was a child that my younger brother is a little crazy at his core. He burned himself to death, and in his heart There must be overwhelming resentment, and he left this secret library map just because he wanted me to avenge him."

"I estimate that it is at least 90% true. The remaining 10% will be known when we investigate."

"My dear nephew, the emperor, is in a hurry. My illness can slowly get better." King Ding's lips sneered, obviously pretending to be sick and feeling aggrieved.

Li Xiaohan's head dropped slightly - the wheel of history accelerated forward.

=== Chapter === 180

"Miss Li, you have made great contributions in this matter and deserve to be rewarded, so I will reward you..."

Suddenly, King Ding suddenly concluded, this contribution is too great, how can he be rewarded?

He was reluctant to part with too many rewards. He had been really stretched lately and saw that he had to spend money everywhere. Although it was very likely that he would receive a large amount soon, he hadn't received it yet, right?

It doesn't sound good if the reward is less. King Ding was originally a careless person, but at this sensitive moment, in order to reassure his ministers, King Ding paid special attention to this point.

"Your Majesty, this matter has not been proven true or false, and I dare not take credit without authorization." Li Xiaohan declined, saying that he had to remind Prince Ding of this. What if the secret vault is not found by then and I receive the reward, wouldn't it be a problem?

King Ding suddenly realized from this title: Li Xiaohan was not only a girl, but also his vassal, which was easy to handle.

"Then I will be promoted to the first rank and be rewarded with a set of brocade robes. I will also be given 500 acres of mountainous land." King Ding said, hoping that Li Xiaohan would provide a variety of medicinal materials. In case a war is really needed, the medicinal materials in the territory will naturally The more the better. Thinking of this, King Ding felt even more fond of Li Xiaohan. He also explained, "As for what Li Aiqing is worried about, don't worry too much. It is good to have this private treasury. Without Qicheng, it is the best private treasury." ."

Li Xiaohan's heart tightened, and he immediately figured it out: Qicheng, as a tributary city carefully selected by the late emperor for King Qi, had a vast territory and rich products. King Qi has been running his old cave for more than ten years. Now King Qi has set himself on fire and died. If King Ding takes the name of King Qi, King Ding will be able to conquer the city of Qi as quickly as possible. With such a city as a backing, King Ding can obtain a steady stream of vitality.

If you plan for the world, the whole city is part of the world.

And this letter is an excellent breakthrough.

"Congratulations, Your Majesty." After understanding the truth, Li Xiaohan said immediately.

"Hahaha." King Ding smiled boldly. Xu had been pretending to be sick and showing weakness for the past few days, which was really frustrating. Now King Ding was in a very good mood and actually praised him directly, "Li Aiqing, you are really a gift from God." Someone who comes to help me."

From the very beginning to the present, alcoholic white wax allicin has emerged, helping him overcome one difficulty after another. Now, with the help of Li Xiaohan, he has sent the letter from King Qi. It is hard to say that God is not favoring him. .

"I don't dare to take credit, but the prince has won the hearts of the people. In this case, there were also some people who helped me regardless of their own safety."

"Oh, what's going on?"

Li Xiaohan told the story about Lao Liu and the others and Village Chief Wu, saying that it was fortunate that they had protected and delayed him, otherwise he would not have been able to wait for rescue to arrive.

"In this case, there should be rewards. Then Village Chief Wu and Old Liu Tou will each be rewarded with fifty acres of mountain land, and the others will be rewarded with fifty taels of silver." King Ding said.

"Wei ministers will take care of the prince on their behalf." Li Xiaohan quickly thanked him when he saw an official next to him who was following Prince Ding record it.

After Li Xiaohan talked with Prince Ding, Prince Ding gave Zhang Fu a few more words, and then Li Xiaohan and Zhang Fu quietly exited Prince Ding's mansion. After all, Prince Ding was still pretending to be ill and couldn't stay too long. If it hadn't been for today. The thing is too important, and it is estimated that the two of them will not be able to see King Ding.

After leaving the back door of the palace, Zhang Fu first sent Li Xiaohan back to the house. In the dark night, Zhang Fu stood in front of the door and said, "I won't go in. I will come to see you tomorrow. Be careful at night, Doctor Zhang said you can't press your neck." . I have already notified your family, and someone will be with you when you return."

"Okay." Li Xiaohan said softly, "Be careful on the road."

"Well, go in." Zhang Fu stood still at the door and motioned for Li Xiaohan to go in first.

Li Xiaohan turned around and opened the door and closed it. The house was brightly lit. Wang and Li Xiandong, who had been waiting early in the morning, saw Li Xiaohan coming back and hurriedly came over to greet him with worried faces. "Xiaohan, how are you? You're hurt." How's it going? Mr. Zhang Er sent someone back to say that you were missing and injured, so he sent someone to pick us up. He also said that after treating the wound, he would have something to do with the government and would not be back until night. "

Seeing the bandage marks on Li Xiaohan's neck, Wang and Li Xiandong's eyes turned red, "Why did they hurt their necks? Why are the robbers so cruel? They don't want enough money but they still kill people."

"Mom, it was because the robbers threatened me that I hurt my neck. It wasn't serious, it bled a little, and it didn't hurt my vitals. It'll just take a while to heal." Li Xiaohan said with a soothing smile. , "The robbers have been caught. The purpose of going to the government is to testify against these people."

"The robber who killed a thousand people will one day go to the eighteenth level of hell." Wang was indignant, but she couldn't say any curse words, so she could only hold back her anger.

"Mom, don't talk about them. Do you have anything to eat? I'm hungry." Li Xiaohan changed the subject.

"Yes, yes, yes, Doctor Zhang said you had a lot of blood left, and he instructed me to make a medicinal diet to replenish your blood." Mrs. Wang said quickly.

"Doctor Zhang has been here. Well, he left again. He said he had to go back to the palace in the evening. I left Dr. Han from Renhetang at home, fearing that something might happen to you at night."

"Why is it so grand?" Several people were talking and walking. They had almost reached the front yard and reached the main room. Li Xiaohan suddenly realized that he did not hear the sound of the carriage leaving the door.

"Why did you stop?"

"It's okay, Mom, I suddenly remembered something. Let me think about it."

Wang and Li Xiandong didn't speak. After a breath, in the quiet night, the inaudible sound of horseshoes tapping on the ground and the gentle rocking of the carriage came from the door...

Fading away.

"It's okay, I figured it out. Mom and dad, let's go."

Entering the main room, I met Dr. Han, an old acquaintance sent by Renhetang. Doctor Han first examined Li Xiaohan's wound and made sure there was no tear, bleeding, swelling, or fever before letting Li Xiaohan go have dinner.

After dinner, it was a hot day. Li Xiaohan felt that it was not enough to change his clothes. He had to take a shower to avoid the wound on his neck.

Unfortunately, Mrs. Wang, who had always been soft-tempered, was very tough this time and was not accommodating at all. Li Xiaohan had no choice but to wipe her body - and just like that, Mrs. Wang spent the whole night thinking about the help she had personally given to Li Xiaohan.

It had been many years since she had had anyone help with bathing, and Li Xiaohan had finally regained the feeling of being extremely cared for - Mrs. Wang was almost taking care of her with the same attitude of taking care of Li Xiaoshuang, and she wished she could even feed her.

After finally taking a shower, Li Xiandong brought another bowl of brown soup.

"Why do you still have it? What is this for?" Li Xiaohan frowned slightly, why did he still have medicine to drink?

"Soothing soup. Doctor Han said that Mr. Zhang told you to drink it before going to bed at night." Li Xiandong said.

"Give it to me." Li Xiaohan looked at Li Xiandong's expression, and it seemed that she couldn't survive without drinking.

Drink it down in one breath. This Chinese medicine is really bitter.

After drinking, Li Xiandong handed over a pine nut candy, "Xiao Shuang gave it to you, saying that my sister was injured and had to take the medicine and needed candy. I couldn't wait for you to come back, so Aunt He went to bed with her first."

Li Xiaohan remembered that Li Xiaoshuang cherished this pine nut candy very much. For fear of tooth decay, her family only gave her two pine nut candies every day. She counted them every morning and every night. Smile, open the candy wrapper and throw the candy into your mouth. The best pine nut candy is fragrant and sweet.

"Go to sleep." After eating the candy, Li Xiaohan lay down, but Wang did not leave. She tucked Li Xiaohan into a quilt and said, "My mother will stay with you tonight."

"Yeah. Mom."

Li Xiaohan lay flat on the bed and closed her eyes. She thought that she would not be able to sleep. She felt that she could survive it, but it might take some time.

But in the darkness, what comes to mind is not only the panic of escaping and the smell of blood, but also Wang's nagging, Li Xiandong's silent worry, the extremely bitter medicine and the extremely sweet sugar, and the tense body and mind. Gradually it becomes soft and warm, as if it has been caught and placed properly, and wrapped softly.

A night without dreams until dawn.

Early the next morning.

Li Xiaohan woke up from his dark sleep, and the daylight was already bright. Mrs. Wang was no longer beside the bed, leaving only another quilt proving that Li Xiaohan was not alone last night.

I gently changed my clothes and opened the doors and windows. The summer sunlight brought undeniable warmth and heat, making people feel like they were being melted.

"The eldest lady is up." Aunt He took Li Xiaoshuang and saw Li Xiaohan getting up. She quickly said, "Madam is preparing breakfast for you. Second Young Master Zhang is here, and I am accompanying you."

"Sister." Li Xiaoshuang ran over with short legs, her little face wrinkled, "Sister, are you injured? I'll give you a puff, and the puff won't hurt."

"Okay, I'll wait for Xiaoshuang to give me a huff." Li Xiaohan stretched his neck slightly and said with a smile.

The inaudible wind of breath blew onto his face several times in a row. Li Xiaohan smiled and said, "Okay, after Xiaoshuang gave Sister a breath, it really doesn't hurt anymore."

"Yeah, sister. If it still hurts, call me Xiaoshuang." Li Xiaoshuang frowned together and said very cutely.

"Okay." Li Xiaohan touched Li Xiaoshuang's bulging cheeks and said with a smile.

"Get up, let's wash up first. Breakfast will be ready soon. Do you want to see the second young master after eating, or do you want to eat after seeing him?" Mrs. Wang poked her head out of the kitchen and asked.

Secretly, she hoped that her daughter would see the guests again after eating, but the second young master came very early and waited for a long time. It was not very good to make the guests wait again. Wang was particularly conflicted.

"Mom, prepare a little more. I'll eat it while I see the second young master."

"Ah, Aunt He went out to ask just now, and the second young master said that he would come back after eating."

"It's okay. He is young and practicing martial arts. He gets hungry quickly. Mom, just prepare an extra portion."

"Okay." Mrs. Wang felt relieved and went to the kitchen. It was just an extra breakfast. The Li family naturally had no problem now.

After Li Xiaohan finished washing up, Li Xiandong and Zhang Fu were sitting. Li Xiandong had almost finished a pot of tea. His stomach was full of water in the morning - Zhang Fu was trying to talk about something, looking for something. We have a common topic, but the more we talk, the more uncomfortable Li Xiandong becomes. After finishing what he could usually say, Zhang Fu saw that Li Xiandong had been like this, so he kept silent in an understanding manner, and the two of them sipped tea in silence.

When they saw Li Xiaohan coming out, their eyes lit up and they breathed a sigh of relief.

Aunt He helped put the breakfast on the table, and Li Xiaohan said, "Have you eaten yet? Eat some with me."

"good."

Zhang Fu glanced sideways at Li Xiaohan's wounds, then agreed with a smile.

The things Wang prepared were all Li Xiaohan liked to eat. Now that Li Xiaohan was injured, he specially chose something light and easy to digest.

It not only takes care of Li Xiaohan's taste, but also is suitable for this hot summer.

"Second Young Master is indeed a martial arts practitioner. He has a big appetite. Fortunately, we prepared more." In the kitchen, Aunt He took back the tableware that the two of them had finished eating, and Mrs. Wang couldn't help but click her tongue. It is the habit of the people in Wang's village that they are afraid of neglecting their guests, so they prepare more food, and the portions are very substantial.

"I guess the Madam made it to your liking. I see the Second Young Master and the girl enjoying themselves." Aunt He praised.

"Yes, mom's cooking is delicious." Li Xiaoshuang drank a bowl of goat milk drink and nodded in agreement.

Mrs. Wang touched Li Xiaoshuang's hair and pursed her lips with a slight smile. She didn't expect to be rich and powerful, she just wanted her family to be safe.

=== Chapter === 181

After eating a home-cooked breakfast, the two began to talk.

"I have brought you the prince's reward, clothes and appointment." Zhang Fu said, putting down the tea cup.

"Why did you bring it here?" Li Xiaohan asked, Zhang Fu should not care about this.

"Oh, since it's being kept secret for the time being, it's not appropriate for too many people to know about it, so I might as well do it for you." Zhang Fu said seriously.

Without mentioning anything, he went to urge this matter early in the morning, which only annoyed the responsible official to death, but he didn't dare to disobey, "Take a look."

Li Xiaohan took what Zhang Fu had brought: a monochrome white silk imperial edict with hidden cloud-shaped auspicious clouds embroidered on it. It was the same as the imperial edict when she was awarded the last time, except that However, the content is different.

After reading the imperial edict, I looked at it as a set of official uniforms. This was similar to the last time. The promotion to a first rank only meant that there were more patterns and patterns of birds and animals.

The last set of regular clothes is an extra reward. It is not only a complete set of clothes, but also a series of matching accessories, from belt loops to ring rings.

Li Xiaohan touched the ring finger. The jade was of good quality, but it was not very good. What was better was that it was a reward from the government, and there was a secret mark from the government on it.

"I'll have someone make one for you." Zhang Fu said quickly, feeling very annoyed: He wanted to find an excuse to come over, but he ignored that the ready-made accessories are all made according to the size of adult men. The one he took was much bigger than Li Xiaohan's thumb.

"No need. You know, I don't know much about bows and arrows." Li Xiaohan said this, but did not put down the inappropriate lever.

She did want to learn some enemy-killing skills such as archery, but Old Uncle Zhong said that she was not strong enough, her bones were not good enough, and she learned it too late, so she was basically incapable of killing anyone with real martial arts skills. If you don't have the strength, it's better to concentrate on learning the skills of escaping. If you want to go further, learn one or two clever life-saving moves. Maybe it will be unexpected and have good results.

Li Xiaohan learned two tricks from Old Uncle Zhong and took some time to practice every day. According to what Old Uncle Zhong said, practicing should become instinctive like eating, and you can use it without thinking.

Now this escape proves that what old Uncle Zhong said is indeed right.

Li Xiaohan's thoughts wandered a little, and Zhang Fu noticed it, "What are you thinking about?"

"If you think about old Uncle Zhong, the two tricks he taught me are really practical." Li Xiaohan said with a complicated smile.

Zhang Fu immediately understood that Li Xiaohan was killed with one move, and Zhang Fu immediately guessed that it was Old Uncle Zhong's skill. When asked, it turned out to be true, and Old Uncle Zhong readily admitted it.

"Old Uncle Zhong said that this move of yours is considered a master's degree. However, you really don't have much talent in martial arts. If you are really not used to it, I'd better send someone to protect you."

In fact, there is another sentence that old Uncle Zhong said, "Miss Li doesn't have much talent in martial arts. She can use it to this level only because of her familiarity. But this time I discovered that, Miss Li's character is not ruthless enough, so I don't recommend her to continue practicing. Those who are good at swimming will drown in the water, and those who practice martial arts will often see life and death. It's okay if the enemy dies. If one of her own dies, she may not be able to let go."

"Let's talk about it again, I'll think about it again." Li Xiaohan came back to his senses, looked at the thumb and asked, "Can these things be given to others?"

Li Xiaohan didn't know archery, but Village Chief Wu did. Li Xiaohan had seen a homemade bow and arrow at Village Chief Wu's home.

"This is a regular uniform, not a regulation. You can naturally give it to me as a gift. But who do you want to give it to?" Zhang Fu asked curiously.

Li Xiandong? Li Xiaohan is the only adult man in his family.

But Li Xiandong is also an ordinary farm man. According to Zhang Fu's understanding of Li Xiandong, Li Xiandong is obsessed with farm work and does not actually value these things very much.

"I want to give it to Village Chief Wu and others."

"Of course you can." Zhang Fu said, thinking that Li Xiaohan was grateful to Village Chief Wu and wanted to express his gratitude.

After talking about Li Xiaohan, the two went to Renhe Hall. Zhang Fu told Village Chief Wu and the brothers Lao Liutou about the prince's reward. They were overjoyed and showed gratitude on their faces.

"This...how do you deserve this?" Old Liu Tou said slightly uneasy.

"Miss Li mentioned you to the prince, saying that you protected Miss Li and enabled her to successfully complete her mission, so the prince rewarded her." Zhang Fu explained.

These people never knew what Li Xiaohan was hiding. Now they only know that Miss Li has an important mission and then met the robbers. Of course, everyone was too sensible and didn't ask further questions.

"If you want to grow white wax or Eucommia ulmoides in your mountainous area, I have a lot of seedlings at home. You can pick them out. Don't feel embarrassed. You are also my savior. I can't thank you enough. Here are some It's not much money, it's just my heart, you must accept it."

The silver was really not that much, and the most important thing was that it could not exceed the reward from King Ding, so the amount given to Old Liu Tou and Village Chief Wu was fifty taels, and the three brothers of Old Liu Tou who reported the news were given twenty taels. This money can at least replenish one's health and tide over the initial difficulties. According to ordinary people's consumption, it will be enough in two or three years.

What Li Xiaohan was thinking about was what to do with his future livelihood.

It's okay for Lao Liutou and others. She has confirmed it with Dr. Renhetang. After she is cured, it will not affect her future life. The troublesome Village Chief Wu, Village Chief Wu broke an arm, and he will be very good in the future. No more inconvenience.

Therefore, it is best to consider the future livelihood of Village Chief Wu. What Li Xiaohan wants to do is to help run their mountainous area first, which can be regarded as a foothold. White wax and Eucommia ulmoides require less labor than farming. Village Chief Wu can do it with one hand and the help of his family. Take another look in the future to see if there is anything he wants to learn or if there are any opportunities that suit him.

Old Liu Tou and Village Chief Wu were struggling in their hearts. They didn't want to take the money, but the seedlings of Pleurotus leucophylla and Eucommia ulmoides were really exciting. Nowadays, the prices of these two seedlings are extremely high. Except for limited sales by the government, other sources of goods are not available to them. .

As for the fifty acres of mountain land, they themselves couldn't get enough of these seedlings. If the price drops in a few years, it should be possible, but planting trees and seedlings is inherently time-consuming, and by then they will not be able to seize the opportunity.

Besides, they were heartbroken to have this beautiful mountainous area abandoned.

"Don't refuse. If you don't accept it, wouldn't it make me uneasy and cause me injustice." Li Xiaohan had a straight face and was very serious, as if she would be angry if Village Chief Wu and others refused again.

"Then...thank you Miss Li, we want some Eucommia ulmoides ash seedlings." Old Liu Tou and Village Chief Wu finally said with a little embarrassment.

"Cheng , when you recover from your injuries, come to me in Pingshan, and I will teach you how to pick and plant." Li Xiaohan then smiled.

Village Chief Wu and Lao Liutou accepted it, and everyone was very happy, especially Village Chief Wu's mother and daughter-in-law. There is only one strong worker in the family, Village Chief Wu. Since Village Chief Wu has a broken arm, his livelihood will be difficult. Now we have fifty acres of mountain land, and we can plant eucommia ulmoides. I heard that these trees are easier to maintain than crops. The two women help each other and they become a family. From then on, the family had a long-term job and no longer had to rely on hunting for a living.

The adults are very happy. All the subsequent matters have been arranged, and their livelihoods have been settled. This is the best result so far, better than all the possibilities that have been thought of.

Only children don't understand what it means to earn a living from land and money. They only know that their father, who used to be tall and capable, has no arm and is very depressed.

"Kid, I'm sorry." Li Xiaohan squatted down, looked into the child's eyes, and asked seriously.

In the adult world, many things can be measured and compensated, and the future can be viewed rationally, but only children are obsessed with the present.

Child Wu turned his head awkwardly and ignored Li Xiaohan.

"Shun'er." Village Chief Wu's wife's voice was slightly uneasy and embarrassed. She wanted to step forward to talk about her son, but was gently stopped by Zhang Fu, who had a complicated expression on his face.

"Look, I give you this ring. This is the ring for the prince's reward. It is used for shooting arrows. It is proof of superb archery skills."

Li Xiaohan held the wrench in both hands, and she tied a red string on the wrench before going out. Against the cold face of little friend Wu, she continued as if she didn't notice, "Your dad is here to protect you. It's very important." I lost an arm while fighting with bad guys. This is a hero's medal. Are you willing to wear this ring, inherit your father's skills, and become a very powerful person?"

"Really?" Child Wu opened his dark eyes, looked at Li Xiaohan dubiously, then lowered his head to look at the ring, then turned to look at his father, and finally looked back at Li Xiaohan with dark eyes. There is desire in it, a desire for affirmation.

"Of course it's true. Your father is very powerful. Although he will no longer be able to shoot arrows, your father's archery skills were rewarded by the prince and he is a great hero. Look at that brother. He is a high official. He can Prove it. In the future, he will send officers and soldiers to your house to demarcate the land for your house." Li Xiaohan pointed at Zhang Fu, who looked pretty good at bluffing people at this time.

Little friend Wu turned around and looked over. Sure enough, Zhang Fu nodded very profoundly. This man was handsome and noble. He looked more stable after coming back from Liaodong. He looked very convincing. .

Seeing this, the child Wu turned to look at his father again, and finally pursed his lips and showed a gentle smile. He gently picked up the finger and touched it, then ran to his father's side and held it up to his father, "Dad, Look, it's a finger wrench. When I grow up, I'll use this to shoot arrows. In the future, I want to be a hero like you."

"Yes. Okay, dad is waiting for you." Village Chief Wu used his only remaining hand to gently put the ring on his son's neck, and then touched his son's head.

Next to him, Village Chief Wu's wife watched this scene, turned her head and wiped the tears from her face, touched her son's head, and showed a beautiful smile.

=== Chapter === 182

In the first year of Zhengde, it was August.

In Li Xiandong's house in Pingshan Village, the head of the clan, Li Manjing, seemed to have grown up in Li Xiandong's house. He changed the tea several times and kept sighing so much that Li Xiaoshuang ran away.

"Xiaohan, why do you think this is the case? What do you think we should do?"

Patriarch Li's voice was full of vicissitudes of life and pain, and he felt as if he had aged ten years in just over half a year - he had just recovered Liaodong and defeated Xita and Beizhou two years ago, and everyone was still happy and energetic. Before it was over, why did the court suddenly decide that the king was self-respecting and raising bandits to cause trouble?

This is simply a naked slander against Dingcheng. Not to mention that King Ding spent half his life in the army, let alone these civilians, how many families have sacrificed their lives for the stability of this border.

Nowadays, just a word about raising bandits is like a slap in the face of everyone in Dingcheng.

Not to mention Prince Ding, even commoners like Patriarch Li felt cold and angry towards the court when they heard this accusation.

Prince Ding was indeed angry. The prince raised an army. He only said that there were evil villains in the court who slandered loyalty and deceived His Majesty. First it was King Qi and now King Ding, with the intention of subverting and splitting the Wei Dynasty.

King Ding said that he had obtained the evidence that King Qi had been unjustly killed. As the king's uncle, the prince first went to Qi City to obtain the evidence, and then went to the capital to kill the traitorous officials to rectify the situation.

Patriarch Li... Patriarch Li doesn't know what to say or what to do.

Nowadays, even a commoner like him knows that this is a fight between uncle and nephew. Either you die or I die.

But he was also worried. It was the imperial court, and Dingcheng was too small compared to the Wei Dynasty.

Since ancient times, raising an army is called rebellion, and rebellion is such an easy thing.

Patriarch Li and other ordinary people know only so much about the general trend of the world. No matter how much they know, it will not help.

What Patriarch Li is worried about now is:

King Ding has raised an army. Do you want to recruit troops?

Is the Li family's three-year exemption from military service still valid?

Should we impose additional taxes?

How much to add?

What should Dingcheng do if Prince Ding is defeated?

What should we do as ordinary people?

…

Seeing that chaos was about to happen, Chief Li had already begun to wonder if he should start preparing to escape again - Don't say that Chief Li thought too much, there was a historical precedent for the Li family to escape, just because they ran away early. Only in this way can the whole family be saved in that troubled time.

Unexpectedly, now that I have to think about this issue, Patriarch Li is about to burst into tears - he is far less far-sighted and courageous than his ancestors!

In the current situation, Patriarch Li really doesn't know what to do. However, Patriarch Li has thought hard for a long time and feels that he can't build a car even behind closed doors. At this time, he can listen to the opinions of promising young people in the clan - -Who among the Li family is the most promising, of course it is Li Xiaohan.

He was definitely not the son of Juren who had been suffering and grudged all day long as if his own father had died after hearing that the imperial court was cutting vassals and King Ding was raising an army.

Patriarch Li looked at Li Xiaohan eagerly, hoping that Li Xiaohan would give him some inside information, such as if King Ding had a trump card, he would definitely succeed; or if Li Xiaohan had good suggestions, such as choosing a peerless peach blossom garden...

Unfortunately, Li Xiaohan ignored Patriarch Li's sincere eyes and shattered Patriarch Li's expectations, "Chief, I am just a humble official about such a big matter. What can I know?"

No, Li Xiaohan knew too much. For example, why did King Ding take a detour to Qi City first? That was to get the secret treasury of King Qi.

For example, if history does not shift too much, the final winner will be King Ding. They don't have to go anywhere at all. In troubled times, King Ding's lair is the safest.

However, none of this can be said to Patriarch Li, especially Li Xiaohan, who is also unsure in his heart - what is happening now has deviated from what is recorded in the book.

The time for the imperial court to launch an attack and for King Ding to raise his troops was earlier.

It is recorded in the book that the original male protagonist Lin Heng passed the imperial examination during Taisun Enke's reign, and then won the first prize in the imperial examination.

However, it was still August, and Li Xiaohan knew that Lin Heng was still on his way to Beijing, and he didn't know if he would be able to reach the capital smoothly.

The current situation is so turbulent that Enke has been postponed. The new emperor and the court may not be able to bear the fact that all the students from Qicheng and Dingcheng in Enke were absent from the exam in the first year. This is a great mockery of the new emperor's unification.

So, was it because of the incident in King Qi's secret treasury that the court decided to cut the knot quickly and King Ding gained the confidence to stop pretending to be ill?

Li Xiaohan didn't know whether this was the reason.

The rules by which the world operates are so complex and precise that even the wisest scientists and theologians cannot deduce them.

Li Xiaohan didn't know where to trace it back to the source of this change. I don't know what the outcome of this change will be.

What Li Xiaohan can be sure of now is that only King Ding should be the final winner, otherwise the world will be overturned.

However, how King Ding won this battle and when he finished the battle cannot be determined by using the records in previous books. It is for reference only.

Seeing Li Xiaohan's frown and change of expression, Patriarch Li guessed that Li Xiaohan couldn't give him the answer he wanted - and he probably had to think about it when his ancestors showed up.

However, let's not talk about military service, clan relocation, and escape. However, there is a problem that still needs to be solved.

"Xiaohan, our trade routes with Jiangnan have been cut off since the prince raised his army. Now, Mr. Su and the others have ordered allicin, distilled wine, and even a lot of poultry in our village. How can these... What to do?" Patriarch Li said worriedly.

"Also, should our workshop stop for a while? Otherwise, we will suffer a big loss if we produce so many things and no one wants them. Unfortunately, our clan is on the rise, and the workshop has hired people again, and we are thinking about expanding our business. I did it once, but now I'm encountering something like this."

Could it be that the Li family really does not have such a prosperous destiny?

Li Xiaohan was brought back to attention by Patriarch Li's words. For a moment, it seemed that she couldn't understand what Patriarch Li was saying - she thought that Patriarch Li had been sighing for so long because he wanted some confidential information or was embarrassed about something big. , is this all?

"Patriarch, did they not give enough deposit for Mr. Su's goods? I remember that in our cooperation, every transaction requires a deposit first? Even if Mr. Su didn't come to pick up the goods and pay the balance, we didn't lose much. "Really?" Li Xiaohan was very confused.

"Oh, Mr. Su's goods will indeed not lose much. I'm just worried about the future." Patriarch Li sighed.

If you think about how things can only look at the moment, you must look at the long term. Xiaohan only sees this deal, so he is really young.

"What are you worried about in the future?" Li Xiaohan was even more confused, "Clan leader, have you not understood what our workshop does? We are pharmaceuticals."

Seeing that Patriarch Li couldn't change his mind for a while, Li Xiaohan said, "Patriarch, let me tell you a story. Once upon a time, there was a world where all the countries fell into a war. The most powerful ones... Countries are attacking and fighting each other. Among them, there is a newly born country called Beautiful Country. Beautiful Country has a medicine called penicillin. Penicillin has a miraculous effect on the inflammation and fever of soldiers after injuries. So Beautiful Country uses this medicine as a bridge to carry out diplomacy. They aggressively sold penicillin and sold various weapons to the countries at war, constantly searching for wealth and talents. In the end, after the war, the beautiful country became one of the largest countries in the world."

Li Xiaohan looked at Patriarch Li, calm and bewildered, "Patriarch, many businesses can only be done in peaceful and prosperous times, but for us medicine sellers, on the contrary, only in troubled times can we have the largest market. ah."

"This...this...this" Patriarch Li stuttered. He had never thought about this direction. Ordinary people just want to live peacefully.

However, when Li Xiaohan said it now, this is the truth: if you are in a war or injured, you have to take medicine. Not only the army needs medicine, but wealthy families also need to prepare medicine, and civilians also need to prepare medicine.

Patriarch Li's heart became hotter and hotter as he thought about it, and he was so crazy that he trembled, "Xiaohan, you said... what kind of penicillin did you say? You..."

Do you also know?

"Don't think about it, that's just a story, I can't make it." Li Xiaohan broke Patriarch Li's crazy fantasy with a straight face, "Chief, if there really is such a thing, our Li family can survive. It's a disaster. Not a blessing!"

In fact, it really can't be done. Li Xiaohan tried it and it didn't work.

"Yes. Yes! Yes!" Patriarch Li wiped his face and felt that he was really losing his mind. He poured a cup of cold tea to calm down, and then continued, "You are saying that our work Can the workshop continue? Can it become bigger?"

"Of course we can make it bigger. Don't worry. When old foxes like Master Su understand the situation, they will come over to pick up the goods right away. They might even give you money to add more goods." Li Xiaohan said calmly. Full of confidence, "I don't know, we are going to fight over these goods."

"However, there is a problem. We have to save such a hen that lays golden eggs." Li Xiaohan reminded.

Although Prince Ding's lair is generally safe, that means no one from the imperial court knows the success or failure of the attack. But if you come overtly, you won't be able to do it secretly.

Although he had prevented this risk in advance and only shipped goods to Qinggang, Mr. Su and Renhetang, all three knew the basics and their interests were deeply bound to him, thus minimizing unknown dangers.

However, there is still no 100% safety guarantee in the world. The most important thing is to have a strong fist.

There are also the big men around who covet him. Li Xiaohan can't say that no one has been touched, but after weighing it, he feels that he can't be touched.

Li Xiaohan noticed the clan's force from the very beginning of the book, and started to develop with the clan from the time of cutting the skin of Eucommia ulmoides, in order to increase his voice in the clan and get the protection and support of the clan in this troubled world.

Now, it's time for her to reap the rewards.

Sure enough, Patriarch Li lived up to Li Xiaohan's expectations, "I understand."

On weekdays, he can carry a hoe to grab water sources and resources, not to mention the profits from the workshop. Naturally, Patriarch Li is not a coward. How can he give away the meat in his hands so easily? "Don't worry, I will arrange it when I get back." ."

"Well. The world is in chaos. Not only do we have a bigger wallet, but we also have to protect our fists." Li Xiaohan said.

"That's not the truth." Patriarch Li couldn't agree more.

Now he also understands that if the general trend of the world is important, then it is definitely important, but if it is not important, it is actually not that important - they, ordinary people, can't change the current situation anyway, but Your own money and life must be in your own hands.

"I'm going back." Patriarch Li, who wanted to understand, was full of energy and was about to leave, but unfortunately someone interrupted him.

"Miss, the master of the Qing Gang is here." Aunt He came over and said.

Li Xiaohan looked at Patriarch Li and said, "Look, the rushers are here."

How to refuse this!

Patriarch Li's eyes lit up - the money sender came, "Quick, please come in."

=== Chapter === 183

The leader of the Green Gang was very familiar with Li Xiandong's family. As soon as he entered the door, he stated the purpose straight to the point: "I heard that Mr. Su and his friends didn't come to pick up the goods after the time?"

I really came here to grab goods, and I immediately had a target.

"How did you know? You didn't arrange an informant in our village, right?" Li Xiaohan asked in confusion. After all, it wasn't long before Master Su and the others picked up the goods.

"I still need to bury my spies in your village. There are only three shippers, and your shipping times are very regular. Just think about it." The leader of the Qing Gang sat down and took a sip of hot tea. He couldn't think of this crime. Don't think about it, you must deny it.

It's just that the Qing Gang didn't hide their sights, but they, the Qing Gang, were quite familiar with the people in Pingshan Village - the people from Pingshan Village went to the market, and the Qing Gang's Fucheng shop often took the initiative to help put some things away for convenience. In addition, they also We have business dealings, so don't we all become familiar with each other?

Now that we are acquainted, if everyone chats a little or two and reveals any information, it is all a natural thing. They are just as concerned about the girl and boy from the next village as they are about to date, and it cannot be regarded as prying.

The current situation has changed recently, and the leader of the Qing Gang has been very busy, especially some of his customers who are crazy about adding money to ask for goods, and the fat meat is in their mouths. After thinking hard, the leader of the Qing Gang has set his sights on Mr. Su. I asked someone to chat with someone about this batch of goods. The chicken, duck, and pork that Mr. Su ordered from the villagers did not come to pick up the goods.

It's done, it's just Master Su's batch.

After so many years, according to the Qing Gang leader's understanding of Li Xiaohan, it is impossible to rashly increase production capacity in a large amount. But Mr. Su's batch of goods is different. It's useless if left alone. It's better to give it to the Qing Gang.

"Give me that batch of goods. It's useless for you to leave them there anyway. I guess Mr. Su won't be able to pick up the goods in a while." The leader of the Green Gang continued, "In the future, Mr. Su's share will be Give it to me too, I can eat it, don't worry."

"Why do you want so much goods all at once? You won't steal Mr. Su's channels. Are you going to go to the capital?" Li Xiaohan said suspiciously, "You are from Dingcheng, I am a humanitarian Let me remind you, the second and fifth boys will not end well."

The one above you is the final winner, but don't be on the wrong team.

"We are in this industry, and I need you to remind me." Leader Qing Gang said with a smile, "Don't underestimate me. With your shipment volume, if you double the amount, I can eat it. I keep asking you to expand. , you have to seek stability."

"Then where did your goods go?" Li Xiaohan insisted. This medicine was sensitive, so she had to ask clearly.

The leader of the Green Gang looked at Li Xiaohan with a complicated look, and replied with some reluctance, "Going to the south."

Li Xiaohan remembered that Zhang Fu had said that the Qing Gang had taken the path of the Southern Army, but he did not expect that he had gone so far and demanded more for so much goods. What is Duoyao doing? Are they preparing some action?"

"No, the regular consumption of your supply is not enough for them. What's more, the current situation is unstable, and they also want to stock up on some." The leader of the Qing Gang said, "I can't say any more, and it will be impossible. Mr. Su's goods , will you give it to me or not?"

"Okay. I'll give it to you first." Li Xiaohan said, it's good to have a good relationship with Nanbian. Although there is a high probability that it won't be used, it's just in case. You can never have too many escape routes.

"Give it to me in the future." Seeing that Li Xiaohan agreed, the leader of the Qing Gang continued.

"No, I still have to return it to Mr. Su when he comes back." Li Xiaohan insisted.

The Qinggang family cannot be allowed to dominate, and Mr. Su is also a huge force - you have to give Mr. Su some orders to achieve certain results. Sometimes, you just don't worry about being outnumbered. Suffering is uneven. What will happen if one day the frontline soldiers of the imperial court are at war with Dingcheng, but the officials of the imperial court use Dingcheng's medicine?

The people's support can be used, and the people's support cannot be lost.

Since this battle is destined to be fought, let this battle be won quickly.

The leader of the Green Gang saw that Li Xiaohan's expression was changing unpredictably and he didn't know what he was thinking, so he was very sensible and didn't ask any more questions.

Li Xiaohan was a very steady person, and he often even felt like he was at a disadvantage. But looking back after the incident, he had to accept it. He was so steady and steady that he came over with bare hands.

Follow along and you won't go wrong.

Anyway, for a while, opportunists like Mr. Su will not come to Dingcheng again. During that period, his family was the only one, not counting Renhetang, which was for medical treatment.

He had to plan carefully. He couldn't release it all at once. He had to slowly bring out the best effect.

The leader of the Green Gang temporarily got Mr. Su's share, and he was very happy.

Patriarch Li had another income, and he didn't have to worry about the next sales. He happily took Gang Leader Qing to pick up the goods.

The arrival of the Qinggang also calmed people's hearts, and the income of real money diluted the panic of the Pingshan Village people about the war outside. In any case, they had money in their hands, food in their houses, and no panic in their hearts. There is no wrong time.

For a period of time after that, no one came to Mr. Su's family, let alone Mr. Su's family, there was not even a messenger.

Patriarch Li was even more glad that the Qing Gang could take over Master Su's goods, so much so that Patriarch Li was a little tempted and wanted to help the leader of the Qing Gang. From now on, Master Su's goods would be given to the Qing Gang.

It's a pity that after thinking about it, I decided to leave it at that.

Of course, this is all for the future. After Patriarch Li finished chatting with Li Xiaohan and confirmed that the backlog of Mr. Su's goods was given to the Qinggang, a few days later, Li Shengyi came to Li Xiandong's house.

Teach Li Xiandong to sharpen his knife.

Yes.

That's right, sharpening knives is a job that men and women in Pingshan Village can do.

Li Shengyi specially came to the door with a woodcutter and taught Li Xiandong how to really sharpen a knife.

Li Xiaohan has never paid attention to the knives at home. Li Xiandong is very diligent. Li Xiandong sharpens all kinds of hoes, axes, kitchen knives, and woodchopping knives at home. Even Aunt He has not sharpened them all day long. Use ready-made ones.

Li Xiaohan felt that his father was good at sharpening knives, but he never expected that Li Shengyi would come to teach him in person.

On the other hand, old Uncle Zhong was very interested and asked, "Can I take a look?"

"Old Zhong, you are in this business. We are just doing our own thing. It's just some family skills. Just take a look." Li Shengyi did not refuse.

Hearing that it was a family craft, Li Xiaohan consciously stayed, but Mrs. Wang, after thinking about it, took Li Xiaoshuang away with Aunt He.

Although he modestly said to old Uncle Zhong that it was just a family skill and a good job, Li Shengyi was very cautious when he started, "Your father should have taught you this skill, but your father can do it." Morning, I will do the work for you."

This father refers to Li Xiandong's adopted father Li Shengren. As for his biological father Li Shengli, no one will mention it anymore.

"Choose a knife that you are most comfortable with, preferably a long-handled woodcutter. If you are most comfortable with something else, it will do." Li Shengyi looked particularly serious, and Li Xiandong carefully chose his usual knife. Commonly used woodchopping knife.

After choosing the knife, Li Shengyifang continued: "We also sharpen knives on weekdays, but if the knife is sharpened too frequently, it will easily become thin and wear out, so we usually use it when it is sharpened. Just sharpen the knife and it's almost done."

"The knife I teach you today is a life-saving knife. Don't care about the loss of the knife. The thinner and sharper it is, the better it can save your life."

"Before you sharpen your knife, you must first see your knife clearly." Li Shengyi pointed the knife towards himself, with the blade facing his eyes. "It won't work if it's worn, it won't be curled, and it won't chip. It won't work at all. "

Seeing Li Xiandong nodding in agreement, Li Shengyi continued, flicking the nail of his index finger to hear the sound of the knife, stretching out his thumb to scrape the blade, and finally wet the whetstone with water, lightly touched the stone, "Stand firm, bend down, and lower your head." , the chassis must be stable, and the strength is in the hands. Diagonally, low inclination, push lightly and pull hard, it is better to be slow than fast."

As Li Shengyi spoke, he personally demonstrated to Li Xiandong how to sharpen a knife. With leg strength, waist strength, and wrist strength, sharpening a knife is like an extension of body strength.

The sound of sharpening knives sounded regularly and slowly, like human breathing, continuously...

If any technology is perfected, even a layman can see the power and beauty contained in it.

Just like Li Xiaohan at this moment, she believes that her ancestors, the Li family, must have produced outstanding swordsmen before they could understand the sword so well and pass down this hidden life-saving technology from generation to generation. —As long as the knife is sharp enough, the enemy's life is taken and one's own life is saved. It's that simple and direct.

The knowledgeable old Uncle Zhong had already fixed his eyes on the knife in Li Shengyi's hand and unconsciously grasped the side handle.

I don't know how long it took, but Li Shengyi finally finished sharpening a knife. At this moment, the blade was shining with silver light, completely different from the dusty appearance of an ordinary woodchopping knife before.

"How do you sharpen a knife well? That means cutting paper like mud and blowing hair to break it."

Li Shengyi picked up a dead leaf and cut it gently. The extremely light and thin dead leaf was cut open calmly. The incision was smooth and without any obstruction.

Before Li Xiaohan could react, Li Shengyi plucked out another hair, placed it on the sharpened knife, and blew it gently. The hair had been broken into two halves.

Li Xiaohan's eyes narrowed slightly. In this era, such skills really existed.

"When you sharpen it to this level, you're done. Practice slowly by yourself, and if you don't understand anything, ask me." Li Shengyi picked up the knife, put it in his backpack, and said, "From today on, you can use this knife to chop wood. Use this knife for cooking just like your own hands. When it gets dull, sharpen it immediately and pick it up and use it. If chaos really breaks out, the life of your family will depend on this knife."

"Uncle, I understand." Li Xiandong answered seriously. He is a man of few words and does what he says.

"Good sword. Good skills." After watching the lesson, the old uncle Zhong next to him cheered loudly, "Old Yi, you are so hidden. Unexpected, unexpected. Well, with your skills, we are the same. Middle man."

The entire surname of the Li family is Li, and Uncle Zhong always calls people by the last name.

Only then did Li Shengyi smile slightly, as if he was simple and accepting like an ordinary farmer, "How can we be like you? I kill as many pigs as possible, but I can't compare with you."

"Whether it kills pigs or kills people, it's a deadly knife." Old Uncle Zhong said unceremoniously, "We have to drink two cups tonight to watch you sharpen the knife. Your blood is hot and you need to pour it on. Don't refuse. , let Aunt He fry some peanuts for us, cut two pieces of meat, and let's talk about how to use the knife."

Li Shengyi hesitated for a moment, maybe it was that nagging that touched Li Shengyi's heart, and he said boldly, "Okay. Come to my house. My eldest daughter-in-law inherited the craftsmanship of my deceased old woman, cutting peanuts and bacon to accompany the wine. The most delicious one, Aunt He can't do it."

I didn't forget to say to Li Xiandong, "Keep grinding."

The two of them walked away, arm in arm.

Li Xiandong responded in a low voice and continued to sharpen his knife.

Li Xiaohan squatted on the ground, looking at her father, sharpening the knife without any distractions.

Huo.

Huo.

Huo.

…

=== Chapter === 184

"Xiaohan, do you think your father is crazy?" A few days later, Wang asked worriedly.

"Mom, why do you say that?" Li Xiaohan looked confused.

"Your father, ever since your second uncle came here, has been carrying his woodcutter with him every day. The firewood in our woodshed will be enough for next spring, and your father is still chopping. Aunt He is still complaining to me. , your father has recently lost his ability to chop vegetables, and Aunt He wonders if your father is dissatisfied with her." Wang said distressedly.

Li Xiaohan was speechless for a moment. When Li Shengyi was sharpening his knife that day, Mrs. Wang took Aunt He out and escaped. But Li Xiaohan didn't expect that the couple actually didn't talk to each other, "Mom, our father didn't tell you. What happened? Have you ever asked him?"

"No...no." Wang concluded, "I'm not afraid that something will happen. I'll discuss it with you first."

"Mom, you go find my dad first. If you find my dad, ask him, and he will tell you. It's nothing."

"Is everything okay?"

"It's okay."

After receiving Li Xiaohan's assurance, Mrs. Wang felt relieved and went to ask. Sure enough, the Li family had no doubts about Li Xian going to sharpen his sword. Mrs. Wang didn't know how to explain it to Aunt He. Anyway, Aunt He had changed her ways recently. Make bone broth and chop meatballs.

After some time, Patriarch Li organized the strong men in the village to go up the mountain to cut firewood for the orphans and widows. This was used to keep the school warm in the winter and to help the orphans and widows. Li Xiandong had less time to hone his skills at home.

=== Chapter === 185

"Mom, how come our food is so good?" Li Xiaohan asked after swallowing the last mouthful of big bone soup.

The Li family's food is naturally not bad, but it's just that these days are better. Li Xiaohan is gaining weight every day, and Li Xiaohan, who is fifteen or sixteen years old and can almost digest a cow, is almost gaining weight.

"I finally understand that no matter how much money our family has, if it is not spent on ourselves, it will be dead. Now that your father is working so hard every day, he has to make up for it." Mrs. Wang He said while cleaning up the rice and vegetable scraps that Li Xiaoshuang dropped on the ground.

"Oh, I can see clearly too. Mom, you are heartbroken." Li Xiaohan said with a smile.

Wang's hand stopped for a moment, and she refused to admit it, "What are you talking about? It hurts. We have been an old couple for many years, but they just eat better."

"Yes, yes, I know. Our family can't afford anything right now." Li Xiaohan was stuffed with a mouthful of middle-aged and mature dog food and said jokingly.

A few days ago, Mr. Wang came to ask her about Li Xiandong. Li Xiaohan was worried that the two couples did not communicate. Later, when he asked quietly, Li Xiandong felt that he was not good at practice and was too embarrassed to tell Ms. Wang, so he had to do it from time to time. Practice hard. After Mrs. Wang asked, she didn't know what the two people said, and the food immediately became better.

"Yes, yes, I know. Our family can't afford anything now. Mom, you are heartbroken." Li Xiaoshuang pouted her greasy mouth and parroted.

"Why are you everywhere? You are not allowed to imitate others." Mrs. Wang wiped off Li Xiaoshuang's mouth and pointed her forehead with her index finger and said, "You can't say these words out loud."

"Don't say these words out loud." Li Xiaoshuang repeated seriously with a chubby little face and a pouty mouth.

"Oh, you've learned a lot, haven't you? Let's see how I deal with you." Wang said angrily. The younger daughter is not like the older daughter. Now that the family conditions are better, she has developed a very naughty temper. The gentle and introverted Wang sometimes becomes so angry that she turns into a tigress.

"Hey, I can't deal with it." When Li Xiaoshuang saw her mother like this, she slid off the chair and ran towards the door with her short legs. "Mom, I'm going to play."

Only Mrs. Wang was left, whose eyebrows stood upright with anger.

Li Xiaohan quietly returned to his room. At this time, he should not mess with his mother again.

After finishing their plans for this period of time, Li Hehua and Li Lanhua also came over after work.

After going to the workshop, Li Hehua could only come over after work to tell Li Xiaohan about his recent study and work. Li Xiaohan would either comment a few words or assign some specific homework. Li Hehua could To stand out from the workshop, both master and apprentice have put in a lot of effort.

Gradually, Li Lanhua followed silently, and sometimes asked questions. When sensitive topics came up, Li Lanhua also wisely avoided them. By now, Li Lanhua has a place in Li Xiaohan's primary school by default.

As far as Li Xiaohan is concerned, she actually doesn't object. Li Lanhua's plight makes people sympathize with her, but what really touches Li Xiaohan is Li Lanhua's ruthlessness. Women, only by being ruthless can you survive in this cannibalistic society.

In the past, this elementary school was very happy, after all, because they had a low starting point and low expectations, but their development was full of twists and turns. However, today is a little different. Although the two flowers try hard to behave as before, they are depressed underneath.

"What happened? Something happened in the workshop?" Li Xiaohan asked.

The workshop was on the right track, but sometimes she couldn't get over it. As her career grew bigger, she had more and more things to consider. Especially now she feels a bit like walking a tightrope, so recently she has been studying the "Da Wei Law" instead. The law is a summary of the rules of this society. Sometimes I read some history books. Reading can make people wise. There is nothing new under the sun.

Most of this information comes from Zhang Fu. Unfortunately, Zhang Fu recently went on an expedition with the army, otherwise they would be very topical about it. Nowadays, Li Xiaohan spends most of his time reading slowly and pondering by himself.

Seeing Li Xiaohan asking, Li Hehua felt embarrassed and said, "It's nothing. After work today, all the men in the workshop went to practice swordsmanship in groups, and there were only a few of us left. Girls feel like they have been left behind."

"What do you think? You also want to practice swordsmanship?" Li Xiaohan became interested and sat upright and asked.

She also knew that practicing swordsmanship was actually a follow-up to sharpening swords and chopping firewood. Perhaps the uneasy situation during this period allowed many old people to regain the feeling of fleeing in the first place, and from time to time they would tell the younger members of the clan about the things they had done when they fled. What happened at that time, occasionally recalling the difficult escape journey, hoping that the clan can make progress from the experience of that year.

This was originally a good idea, but after successfully escaping, looking back now, I feel more thrilling. The young people in the clan are not more enthusiastic, plus the promotion of the clan, and old Uncle Zhong The idle boredom also intervened, and the young men in the clan practiced some exercises in the afternoon.

However, in this era of cold weapons, group force activities are by default the domain of men. Based on the natural physical difference between men and women, Li Xiaohan did not interfere much.

But now it seems that there is something that I have overlooked. Li Xiaohan frowned.

"It's not something worth talking about, it's just..." Li Hehua struggled to analyze herself, "It's just like the default that we can only be protected."

After talking about it, Li Hehua smiled a little more ugly, "In the past, I performed better than my father and my brother in the workshop, and my family was willing to respect my opinions. Now, my brother and the others He said that he would definitely protect me and reassure me that he would just do his job well. These beatings and killings are not something that girls like us should get involved in."

"Just, it's quite boring. It seems that no matter how well you did before, it's useless." Li Hehua lowered his head and looked at the ground unconsciously.

"I've tried it too, but I can't beat my eldest brother by arm wrestling. He's two years younger than me. He didn't learn well in the past and didn't pass the workshop. I just kept watching him practice calligraphy and study. Now. He doesn't listen to me anymore." Li Lanhua sneered at the corner of her mouth, as if she didn't care very much, "I'm too lazy to take care of him. I can take care of him for the rest of my life."

However, Li Xiaohan also heard the strong support behind the sneer.

A sigh.

This natural physical difference cannot be equalized by hard work. In terms of physical strength and fighting with force, men do have too many physical advantages.

The teachings of the Li family are also the same, so it is always men who grab water and land, and by default it is not a matter of women. When men take the initiative to take responsibility, women naturally retreat to the rear.

Now that I think about it, Mrs. Wang silently took care of the details of the family and used various tricks to provide supplements to Li Xiandong, the only man in the family. Maybe it was because if it really came to that situation, the family was weak and the little one was weak. , can only count on Li Xiandong's sake. Li Xiandong entered, and Wang retreated. Mrs. Wang is the talker of Fanjiao Fang, and she is like this. What's more, those women who have not entered Fanjiao Fang or workshops to make money are just retreating again and again.

Sadly this is largely true.

"There are indeed natural physical differences between men and women. For example, men are taller and stronger and have greater strength." Li Xiaohan explained softly but firmly, "But it doesn't mean that you have to retreat again and again. However, Yes, everyone's division of labor is different."

"Different division of labor?" Obviously these four words could not completely convince Li Hehua and Li Lanhua. The reason for not refuting them was because they always respected Li Xiaohan.

"Yes, in fact, what you are disappointed about is that you did not find a sense of participation in this time. However, this is wrong. How many young and strong men are there in the clan, how many are old, weak and young? Just relying on youth and strength is actually No. I believe that during the previous escape, the female elders of the tribe also played many important roles, but they did not say it out loud. Silent dedication sounds nice, but it is not a character that I admire very much. Xu is the patriarch of the tribe. I was so excited that I ignored this aspect. I will think about it carefully and talk to the clan leader." Li Xiaohan said.

Obviously, Li Xiaohan's words gave Li Hehua and Li Lanhua confidence, "Well, Master, we all listen to you."

"You can't all listen to me. I haven't experienced it either. You all should use your brains to think about it. If someone really comes to steal things, what can we do?"

"Running with children? Brother Gua and Brother Guo both obey me. I can pick them up." Li Hehua said hesitantly.

"Yes, Brother Gua'er and Brother Guo'er are the younger ones. You can take care of the old, weak and young. This is also part of it." Li Xiaohan affirmed.

"Cook something for everyone so that everyone can maintain their strength?" Li Lanhua said, but she was not very satisfied with this answer.

"Cooking is also a part of logistics. Logistics actually includes the collection and distribution of food, the collection of weapons, and the support of medicine. In the army, military supplies are managed together." Li Xiaohan affirmed.

After hearing Li Xiaohan's answer, Li Lanhua smiled.

"Actually, there are differences in physical strength among men. You see, some people are born to be forwards on the battlefield, while some people are not physically strong enough to do logistics." Li Xiaohan said slowly, "If I say, in real troubled times, When the time comes, all I can do is to run faster, be healthier and not get sick, and think calmly and rationally to avoid danger in advance, or find a chance to survive when danger comes. "

"But we are fighting in a group, and we have to integrate into the group and become part of the combat force. I need to think about it carefully and talk to the clan leader." Li Xiaohan frowned and said slowly while thinking.

"Hmm. Master, think about it slowly." Li Hehua said. Sure enough, after this discussion, although Li Hehua did not find a perfect answer, she had confirmed that she could make a difference.

"Yes, Sister Xiaohan." Li Lanhua was a little absent-minded. She was a little sidetracked. Although she couldn't beat Qingzhuang, she seemed not to be running fast enough if she tried to escape.

After the two flowers finished talking, they had no other questions about the workshop for the time being, so they left and went back.

Li Xiaohan was left alone and slowly walked to the patriarch's house.

"You mean women? Of course women are useful!" Patriarch Li asked in confusion. What's so strange about this? "When I was fleeing, my mother held up half a man. Most of the men went into battle lightly. They only carry weapons and are ready to fight at any time. The babies are carried on women's backs, and most of the luggage is taken care of by women. When resting, men really rest and conserve their physical strength. Women are not allowed to take care of themselves. Everything. Why, ask this question?"

"I just think that the older elders have not said anything now. The younger ones are like my mother and I. I am afraid that if something happens, we will be panicked and confused, otherwise the elders will give us Tell me." Li Xiaohan sighed with a sad look on his face.

Patriarch Li frowned deeply: Will Li Xiaohan be panicked or confused?

Don't think that he is just a clan leader. He doesn't know that the time Li Xiaohan was injured, his official rank was promoted to another level, and he had an additional 500 acres of mountainous land under his name. It is said that he encountered robbers and protected important evidence. Prince Rewarding.

Even though he was able to deal with the bandits and return safely with his people and belongings, he didn't care how deep the water was. Now tell him, Li Xiaohan would be panicked and confused.

No matter what Li Xiaohan said, Patriarch Li wouldn't believe it.

However, Li Xiaohan must have a purpose for saying this. Chief Li could only ask, "Then what do you want to do?"

"Now that the men in the clan have started practicing, I think it would be better for the women to practice as well."

"Sure. No problem." Patriarch Li said.

"Also, we young people have to be a little more advanced than our elders. I think, especially since our workshop is still making pharmaceuticals. If we encounter someone and we don't know how to use this medicine, wouldn't it be a joke?" Li Xiaohan said that people in Pingshan Village really don't know how to use this medicine. Otherwise, it is too expensive for farmers, and they can't usually use it.

"If there is a situation where the man is fighting at the front, and when he returns home, everyone is helpless with the wound, that would not be good." Li Xiaohan continued.

"That's natural." Patriarch Li's expression became cautious. He understood the importance of this medicine, but, "It's just that we don't understand this very well."

Do you think he doesn't want to? Jianghu doctors are also doctors. Those are all skills passed down from family. How can they be passed down from generation to generation?

"Here I go, let me teach you how to identify the commonly used herbs and how to use them under what circumstances. Some time ago, Dr. Zhang was at my house and told me a lot. I recognize the commonly used herbs in our mountains. That's almost it." After all, he had a related profession in his previous life, and he had learned a lot from Dr. Zhang in this life. Li Xiaohan thought that it would be enough to teach the women of Pingshan Village.

"Sure. It's up to you." Patriarch Li immediately agreed.

=== Chapter === 186

Under the big neck tree at the head of Pingshan Village, Li Chunxi lives at home.

The sun hasn't set yet, and Li Chunxi's wife has already assigned the finishing work for today with her hands on her hips, "Eldest wife, please clean up the two younger ones quickly. Second sister, come and help me." Prepare the meals. Boss, please serve our cows quickly and don't grind like usual. Boss, you have fed the chickens and pigs at home and drive the chickens back to the chicken coop. inside."

Li Chunxi's daughter-in-law is an impatient person. She used to take her daughter-in-law and little daughter to arrange all kinds of chores at home, but for some reason today, the sun has not set yet, so she started preparations early. It's dinner, and even my old man and son have made arrangements.

"Why are you in such a hurry? I just came back from the field. The plowshare at home is a little loose. I will repair it while the daylight is still bright, and then arrange the cattle. I have enough time, so you don't have to worry about me." Li Chunxi responded calmly to his wife's urging. After saying that, he first brought water to the cows to drink, and then brought in half-tied straw, and then began to repair the hoe.

It can be seen that unlike his wife, Li Chunxi is a meticulous and a bit grindy old man. I don't know if he didn't take his wife's words to heart, or if it was just his personality. He still worked at the same pace as before, and he was especially careful with the cows – his cow was still a calf, and he had been busy all day long. , you need to give the cow some water, eat some fodder, loosen it up quickly, then rest the cowshed, cover it with a layer of dry straw, and then let your calf go back and lie down comfortably.

Li Chunxi's wife looked at her old man's slow movements, frowned, and pursed her mouth. She wanted to say something, but she suppressed her words and turned around to urge her son. "Boss, quickly mix the chicken food and feed the chicken."

The eldest son of the Li family saw his mother holding back her anger, but he didn't dare to complain like his father. His men kept chopping the cabbage heads and mixing them with rice bran, "Yes, mother, I understand." "

Seeing that her son didn't look like an old man, Li Chunxi's wife finally relaxed her brows a little, and then glanced at her eldest daughter-in-law, who had already stripped her two little babies naked on a wooden plate, and was about to take a bath. She nodded with satisfaction. Then he turned to his youngest daughter and said, "Second sister, wash the vegetables."

About half an hour later, with the sun still shining a little afterglow in the sky, Li Chunxi's dinner was already on the table - this was about half an hour earlier than usual. In the past, we couldn't take advantage of this. While the daylight is still there, I do some odd chores around the house. When it gets dark, I have time to stop and eat. Anyway, it's enough to have some moonlight. No matter what, I won't use it. The food that should go to the mouth goes to the nostrils.

"Old man, it's time to eat." Li Chunxi's wife shouted towards the back of the house, where Li Chunxi was still waiting on the cow.

"Why is it so early today? Wait for me." Li Chunxi's confused response came from behind the house.

"Eat first, before you wait for your father. You don't know how long you will have to grind." Unexpectedly, Li Chunxi's wife, who used to take care of her husband, actually said this. In short, we sat down and started sharing food and dishes.

"Mom, are we really not going to wait for dad? Otherwise, why don't we wait a little longer?" As a man, the eldest son of the Li family instinctively felt that something was wrong. He glanced at his mother and said anxiously.

"I didn't tell him that the movements were quick and easy. I told him that he was the one who did it by himself. What's the matter? He kept waiting for him before he finished? In the past, I was used to him hurrying up. I have something to do after eating." Li Chunxi's wife raised her eyebrows and said angrily.

The eldest man of the Li family did not dare to speak any more, and Li Chunxi's wife ignored him. She took a sip of rice soup and porridge and began to pick up vegetables. "Boss, wife, second sister, hurry up. We have to go early to get a good seat." Location."

"Hey, mother."

So the eldest son of the Li family was dumbfounded to see that his usually gentle and delicate daughter-in-law and sister started eating without caring about his biological father.

After about a quarter of an hour, half of the meal was eaten, and Li Chunxi came back from serving the cows. Before anyone arrived, he said, "Why are you in such a hurry today? My cowshed hasn't been cleaned yet. Daniel will sleep tonight." Isn't it fragrant…"

Before she finished speaking, Li Chunxi paused and couldn't believe her eyes - the family at the table had already started eating. The son, daughter-in-law and daughter lowered their heads and did not dare to look at him, but the old woman was looking at herself, just mouthing. I can't stop eating...

Are you still the head of the Li family?

"Well, you serve the cow slowly, and we'll eat first." Li Chunxi's wife added another dish with chopsticks.

"Zhou...Zhou Daya, you still think I'm your man! Your man hasn't been served yet, and you ate it first! Please tell me which family's principle this is." Li Chunxi used to make clay sculptures of even temperless people, but they all became angry.

Zhou Daya put the porridge bowl down hard and made a bang sound, "I told you earlier that I have something to do today, so you can be more efficient. You don't want to, you just want to confront me, Those who know say that your temperament has always been like this, but those who don't know think that you are unhappy with me. I tell you, from now on, we will eat at this time, and if you keep grinding, I will still wait for you in the future. .You give it a try!"

"You, you..." Li Chunxi was slow-tempered and slow to speak. For a moment, he was so shocked that he was speechless. His wife had indeed told him two days ago that she had something to do today, and she had been urging her in the evening, but he thought it was just in time, but he did not expect that his wife would not wait for him.

However, no matter what happens, there is no reason for the man in charge to start the meal before it is served.

This is simply...simply...

"If you want to eat, sit down quickly. If you don't want to eat, just cook it yourself." Before Li Chunxi could think of the next sentence, Zhou Daya continued to arrive first.

He actually wanted to let him cook for himself after working hard all day, and he was the head of the family. Li Chunxi was so angry that she sat down full of resentment.

What? Are you going to vent your anger on the old lady?

Why didn't he eat? After working in the fields for a day, he was so hungry that his belly was pressed against his belly. If he didn't eat just because he was angry, wouldn't that be fulfilling the old woman's wish?

Moving her big pottery bowl over, Li Chunxi's anger subsided a little when she saw it was full of thick porridge and half of the vegetables. The thickest porridge and the thickest vegetables The good dishes are all in your own bowl, and your wife still has her own heart.

However, it is unforgivable to serve dinner without waiting for a man.

But the old lady did say this before, and she even left extra porridge for herself...

While Li Chunxi was comparing things, Zhou Daya had already finished her dinner. She put down the bowl neatly, wiped her mouth and said, "Don't worry about this bowl and chopsticks. Wait until we come back." Clean it up again. Boss, you have two children at home. You coax them to sleep, and your wife has to follow me out."

The elder man of the Li family, who was pretending to be dead while eating, didn't expect that the fire was coming to him. He raised his head hurriedly and said, "Mother, mother, I can't do it. I have never brought two children to sleep."

Zhou Daya glared angrily, "Why not? This is not your biological baby. They can take a bath and feed them. You just need to take them back to the room and let them run and jump on the kang." When they were tired from running, they naturally fell asleep. Your wife took care of her baby like this every day, so she came over. You, the father, have worked hard during this time, and your wife must get it. Come out with me, this is a rare opportunity, if you have any conscience, you should think about her."

"No, mother, it's my biological child, but I..." Li Chunxi's son said hesitantly, his pleading eyes sweeping over his daughter-in-law, but the former gentle and considerate daughter-in-law now lowered her head and couldn't see. Don't dare to look at him.

And his mother continued, "As long as it's your baby. There's always a first time. As a father, just play with your baby at night."

After saying that, he ignored his son and turned to his daughter-in-law and daughter, "Boss, second sister, are you okay?"

"Mom, it's ready." The two stood up. The young daughter-in-law put the two little dolls on her man. The three women picked up a long bench and went out together. This time, the class was probably a little crowded. There are many people, and the village chief asked everyone to bring their own benches, so there are no tables.

The three women of the Li family could just sit together on a long bench.

All the women in the family went out, leaving only two men and two little kids who didn't know what they were doing.

"Dad." Li Chunxi's son looked at his own father, and the pleading in his eyes was self-evident. Although his mother said it was simple, he knew it was not an easy matter. He only hoped that his father could help him.

"Da Lang, you have to take care of your own baby. Your mother is very ambitious. If Xiaohan in the village teaches these women, she will not be left behind. Your own daughter-in-law and Daughters cannot be worse than other people's wives and daughters. You didn't see how long your mother's face has been stinking if you didn't get into the workshop in the first round. Just take it with you for a while." Li Chunxi He persuaded that he had convinced himself that he could not confront his wife at this time, so he just talked about his son. Anyway, his wife had gone out, so he couldn't hear her, so he didn't admit defeat.

"Dad, please help me." The eldest son of the Li family begged.

He remembered the days when he didn't get into the workshop. His mother thought that she didn't like him everywhere, so she just didn't push him to death until he got into the square in the second round. stop. Now that his mother can get ahead on her own, she must not be left behind.

"Mother! I want mother!" At this moment, the baby in Li Dalang's arms finally woke up. He thought his mother was just leaving for a while, but unexpectedly she disappeared when she went out, so she cried immediately. stand up.

"Xiao Niu, Xiao Niu, don't cry. Your mother has gone out to do errands. Don't cry." The elder man of the Li family began to coax the baby in a hurry.

Outside the wall, Li Dalang's wife, who had not gone far, slowed down and looked back as she listened to her baby's cry.

"What, you still want to go back and take care of the baby? Or do you want to take the baby there?" Zhou Daya looked at his daughter-in-law and said with a frown.

"No, I'm just worried. The calf is still young, and the big cow is not sensible yet." Li Dalang's wife explained

"You are just a child. If you are cruel, they will not remember it in the future. The opportunity for Xiaohan to teach is rare. If you don't want to learn, you can go back. I am not the evil mother-in-law who insists on breaking up mother and child. ." Zhou Daya curled up the corner of her mouth, pretending to be bold.

"No, mother, let's go." Li Dalang's daughter-in-law was not ignorant. She knew that what her mother-in-law said was the truth, so she gritted her teeth and made up her mind.

In the night, the wrinkles on Zhou Daya's face relaxed, "That's right. What can you learn with the baby? Let's come early so we can get a seat in the front. Good location." Li Chunxi's wife praised it.

The three of them quickly came to the room next to the ancestral hall. No one was there yet. They were indeed the first ones. Zhou Daya put her long bench in front of the blackboard and chose one. The most central location recently.

This room was the room where the clan used to teach in the evenings. The clan leader had already informed that the content of the previous teachings had changed and the time remained the same, so Li Chunxi and the other three came early.

Looking around, the area around the house was very neat and clean, but there wasn't much work to do.

"Daughter-in-law, second sister, you guys stay here and I'll go outside to get some water and wash this rag. It will be convenient for Xiaohan to wipe the blackboard later. Don't eat dust all the time." But Zhou Da Ya still found something to do. The clan often uses blackboard chalk for teaching at night. This thing is cheap and easy to use, but it raises dust and makes people uncomfortable when writing.

"Mom, my sister-in-law and I are going to fetch water. You are here to guard us. If someone takes our place, it's up to you, mother, to suppress it." Unexpectedly, Li Ermei refused. The young woman The voice was crisp and crisp, and he had already stood up.

Zhou Daya thought about it, this was the truth. She originally thought that as the night was getting darker, it would be more convenient for her to go out as an old woman. But what the second sister said makes sense. If someone comes to compete for the position, they are young and thin-skinned, and the results they have achieved by coming so early will be lost.

"Come on, you two go out together. Our village is not afraid. If anything happens, just shout loudly to see if anyone knows."

"I got it. Mom." Li Ermei, apart from being a little younger, looked like a second-generation Zhou Da Ya. She went out quickly and washed the rag, and when she came back, she didn't need her mother to do anything. She put the blackboard and the table above it by herself. Wipe it once.

"Is the second sister from Chunxi's family ten years old this year? She is very energetic, just like you." While he was working, another woman came in with two young girls. He praised it as soon as he opened his mouth.

"You're from the Defu family, you're here too. It's November, but she was born at the end of the year, so she's not yet a year old." Zhou Daya said with a smile. This daughter should be like her. People say she has a short temper, but they don't see her being quick and fast at work.

"In another two years, you can try to take the Gongfang test. But don't rush to get engaged. Take your time." The so-called Defu family said with a friendly face, "Make some room for me." Point it out, hey, we are all the parents of two daughters. Although your eldest sister is married, it is rare that you have time now, so you have to say these thoughtful words."

Unexpectedly, the smile on Zhou Daya's lips immediately dropped, and she sat firmly on her bench, motionless, "It's okay to say thoughtful words, but I won't take up any space."

"...This is just the slightest difference. As for it?" The faces of the Defu family froze, unable to get off the stage.

"If you don't miss the slightest bit, then there's no need to worry about it. I don't think I know what your plan is. Come on early tomorrow night." Zhou Daya said coldly.

"Tsk. I will definitely come earlier than you tomorrow night." The Defu family's intentions were discovered, so they could only pretend not to care, and sat down next to him angrily.

But after sitting down, the Defu family member couldn't help but mutter to himself: Hey, this off-center position is so bad. When the time comes, there will be no way for Xiaohan to see him or Xiaohan. Or sit behind Zhou Daya? Zhou Daya is not tall either. When the time comes, she can straighten her back a little. It's just that Zhou Daya found out, and now he sits behind her, which is embarrassing!

Forget it, face is nothing.

Li Ermei sat on her bench and watched the mother and daughter of the Defu family move behind them. Her heart was full of pride: her family's position was the best, and no one else could do it for her own mother. Let her mother take her place.

Thinking this way, Li Ermei even straightened her back a lot, which only made the Defu family suffer. They had to carefully adjust their position - Zhou Daya is not tall, but Ermei is not short in stature. , the back is so straight, it's really not pleasing to the eye.

Or should we move back to the side?

While Li Defu's family was hesitating, another family came over. In an instant, Li Defu's family stopped hesitating and sat upright.

"Chunxi's family, Defu's family, why are you here so early? Come on, make some room for me, let's make love tonight..."

"Sit aside and go. Don't move at all. Please be early tomorrow night."

"..."

So, when Li Xiaohan came, the women of Pingshan Village, who used to be very harmonious, talking and laughing, actually had nothing to talk about, and they all sat upright as if they were competing. But the smile on his face that was 50% serious, 30% excited, and 20% joyful didn't seem like something was wrong.

"My dear aunts, sisters-in-law, you are here very early." Li Xiaohan said with a smile, "This is also my first time teaching you, so you don't need to be so nervous. Let's just treat it as usual."

"Yes. Mr. Xiaohan." Zhou Daya, who was sitting in the front row, replied loudly from her chest, almost startling Li Xiaohan.

"Although I say you don't need to be too nervous, I'm very happy that Aunt Zhou is so serious. This shows that everyone still wants to learn something from me. But you don't need to call me Mr. Xiaohan, just call me Xiaohan." Li Xiaohan smiled a little heartily.

The slightest embarrassment disappeared from Zhou Daya's face instantly, leaving only a proud face, "Yes, Xiaohan."

She must be the earliest tomorrow night so that she can continue to sit in this position.

"Tonight, let's first identify the common injuries. Later, we will slowly talk about what herbs to use for these common injuries." Li Xiaohan wrote on the blackboard, "Let's talk about it. The injuries we've seen are nothing more than stab wounds, burns, bites from venomous snakes, what else do you think?"

"...Falled?" Zhou Daya was the first to answer, "I had diarrhea after eating the wrong thing."

"Not bad, not bad. Is there anything else?"

"I'm getting cold and feverish."

…

"Okay, today I'm going to tell you about the first type of stab wound. From mild to severe. We have also encountered the lightest stab wound on weekdays. We accidentally scratched it. At home, we You can wrap it in plant ashes to stop bleeding. If you are in the wild, look for this grass." Li Xiaohan raised a handful of grass that he had prepared in advance, "The scientific name of this grass is Huangjing, and it often grows in the fields. If you are cut on the ground and there are no other medicinal materials around, you can stop the bleeding by mashing a handful of this grass."

After that, Li Xiaohan handed the grass in his hand to Zhou Daya in the front row, "Pass it down, everyone should take a careful look."

Zhou Daya took it carefully. From this moment on, this weed was no longer an ordinary weed, it was medicine.

"Pounded fresh yellow vitex can treat wounds and insect wounds; dried rhizome of yellow vitex can clear away heat and relieve cough, resolve phlegm and stop malaria..."

Li Xiaohan held a handful of weeds and talked loudly. The crisp voice seemed to float very far in the night sky. The women and girls of different ages below listened in rapt attention.

At the end of Xu Shi, the first day of classes finally ended successfully. Li Xiaohan packed up his things and left first. After she left, the whole classroom exploded like a flock of ducks.

"Oh my god, I can't believe that there is so much knowledge in the common things around us."

"It would be great if you could think of it. Before I got married, there was an old doctor in the village. He would go up and down the mountain every day to pick up herbs. A pair of medicines cost ten cents."

"Xiaohan knows so much."

"No. Thinking about it now, I cut my foot while mowing the grass a few years ago. If I had understood at the time, I would have disinfected it first and then applied a poultice, and maybe there would have been no redness and swelling at the end. I have a fever and I need to call a doctor. I spent dozens of pennies on it. It would be nice to save it to sell meat and eat it, so people don't have to suffer."

"That's not the truth. I didn't know before that I heard the old man said there were several herbs, but not so many or so complete."

"Xiaohan still knows better."

"right!"

"We should come early tomorrow night to get a good seat."

"That's right."

Li Xiaohan, who was said to know a lot, was following Li Xinhe on his way home holding a torch.

Seeing that the two people seemed to be talking to each other, Mrs. Wang was very considerate and stayed behind to walk with the women in the village. Anyway, she was not worried in Pingshan Village because most of the people were teaching in the evening. Everyone is still asleep, so there is nothing to be afraid of walking alone at night.

Li Xiaohan looked at Li Xinhe. Over the past few days, Li Xinhe had obviously matured a lot. People's growth sometimes only takes a moment. For example, Li Xinhe's growth is probably the result of the idealism of the literati. The high platform and the pavilion collapsed suddenly, and the masonry and rubble shattered all over the ground, and then became mats. Today's base, even though it is stumbling, Li Xinhe has also blazed his own path.

This is reflected in today's Li Xinhe, who is more silent and calm.

The next generation leader of the Li family that Li Xiaohan wanted, forged stone and refined gold, and finally became the embryo.

From the memory of her awakening to this day, from the time when she looked up and around, she was in trouble, to now she finally has her own strength and finally has a companion.

"Brother Xinhe, do you have anything you want to ask me?"

Li Xinhe looked at the clan girl who was a head shorter than him. Although the saint was silent and confused, Li Xinhe felt that he had been seen through. He calmed down and took a closer look at the clan girl. This tribe girl has many unknown things in her heart, "Xiaohan, you asked my father to organize everyone to practice martial arts, and you yourself taught the women in the tribe how to deal with various injuries. What are you, Do you think it will be useful? So you let everyone practice in advance? Do you think the world will be in chaos? "

Li Xinhe knew that Li Xiaohan did not do meaningless things and had a long-term view. For example, he had vaguely revealed the movements of the court and Prince Ding before, and there were always hints.

Now the original guess has been confirmed.

However, Li Xinhe felt that the king Ding and the new emperor were fighting over who sat in the chair above, and the world was generally stable after all. After all, external chaos had been settled and internal troubles were easy.

But Li Xiaohan's preparation gave Li Xinhe a sense of uneasiness.

There are also differences in the turbulence of the current situation. There is the chaos caused by the Xuanwu Gate Incident in the early Tang Dynasty, and there is also the chaos caused by the Western and Eastern Jin Dynasties. If it's the former, you'll be fine if you survive this period of time. If it's the latter, the unification will be just a short-lived flash in the pan. In the end, I really don't know if I can survive it.

Li Xiaohan frowned and glanced sideways at Li Xinhe. Li Xinhe opened his eyes wide and looked nervous, waiting for Li Xiaohan's reply, fearing that Li Xiaohan would say a single word.

He looked very worried and anxious.

Li Xiaohan secretly muttered in his heart: He was just preparing for a rainy day, why did Xin He Ge look so scared?

She also didn't want to think about how many times in the past few years, she had revealed various frightening conjectures to Li Xinhe from the smallest details, causing Li Xinhe to not dare to look down upon any of Li Xiaohan's actions. Seeing how seriously Li Xiaohan attached great importance to it, Li Xinhe must have thought wrongly.

Li Xiaohan didn't know that he was almost deified in Li Xinhe's heart. It's not an exaggeration to say that he was so wise that he was almost a monster. However, seeing the fear in Li Xinhe's eyes after waiting for a long time for a reply, Li Xiaohan carefully recalled the words in the original book. The plot, and then the current situation, he replied cautiously, "I think it may be more serious than the Xuanwu Gate Incident, but it will not be as bad as the Western and Eastern Jin Dynasties. This war will not last too long. , let's see whether the final winner is the new emperor or the king."

Li Xinhe breathed a deep sigh of relief, feeling that the cool evening breeze in the night sky was breathed deep into his lungs, making his breathing smoother.

"The rebellion in Western Tartar Beizhou has been put down. According to the information I received, King Ding and General Zheng sent the two-community coalition back to their hometown in one fell swoop. Without a few years of recuperation, Western Tartar Northern Prefecture could not regain its strength. So it is difficult for them to regain their strength." Wei, external chaos has been resolved."

Now that this topic was brought up, Li Xiaohan continued to explain his evidence slowly, "In the Wei Dynasty, the foundation left by the late emperor is still there. Although there has been a drought in Dingcheng in the past two years, Jiangnan has had good harvests year after year. Jiangnan If it is cooked, the world will have enough. As long as there is still one mouthful to eat, the common people will be easily satisfied and will not be able to cause chaos."

"The only conflict is the struggle between the vassal king and the court. King Qi has passed away, leaving only King Ding. Although King Ding is just a local vassal king with a strong military force, the city of Ding is not rich and it is difficult to support it for a long time. , it seems that King Ding will lose more and win less. But, "

Li Xiaohan looked at Li Xinhe and smiled slightly. His eyes were full of color, and he actually had a heroic spirit that made people laugh and laugh about the world. "Once King Ding takes down Qi City, with the strength of Ding City, With the wealth of Qi City, King Ding has the power to fight against the imperial court."

"And Prince Ding, who spent half his life as a soldier, knows how to fight better than the new emperor who governs the country with a pen."

This is a bet on the king.

Li Xinhe's sigh of relief slowly rose again, and he didn't know whether he was happy or lonely for a moment.

With the education Li Xinhe received, the imperial court was naturally orthodox, but Li Xinhe had been living in Dingcheng. The more he knew, the closer he would inevitably get to King Ding. The so-called love and justice are a dilemma.

But he didn't struggle for a long time. After all, Li Xinhe was now a down-to-earth and good young man, and he quickly let go. Even after listening to Li Xiaohan's analysis, Li Xinhe felt that the confused and dark future became clearer.

After all, there is a long road ahead, and knowing the direction and destination will always give people hope.

However, before Li Xinhe could feel reassured, Li Xiaohan continued: "Brother Xinhe, I heard that young adults in the village went in groups to sharpen knives and chop firewood. Didn't you go?"

Speaking of this, Li Xinhe's face turned red. Fortunately, the night was dark and the light of the torch covered up the redness on Li Xinhe's face. "I tried it before, but I couldn't swing the firewood very well." Dao, after my dad and the others saw it, they asked me to go back and teach properly. If anything happens, the villagers will have to look after me."

There was a hint of helplessness and self-mockery in Li Xinhe's words. Although he thought he was not incapable of catching chickens, at this time, he seemed a little bit useless as a scholar.

For a moment, Li Xiaohan didn't know what to say. However, in troubled times, one still cannot give up force. After thinking about it, Li Xiaohan flipped his wrist, and the dagger in his sleeve was not pulled out, but it was already placed on Li Xinhe's neck.

This skill was so exquisite that before Li Xinhe could react, Li Xiaohan had already put back his dagger.

"Do it again." Li Xiaohan said crisply again.

As a result, Li Xinhe's eyes widened and he still didn't see clearly why the dagger was on the other side of his neck.

Slowly withdrawing the dagger this time, knowing what Li Xinhe wanted to ask, Li Xiaohan smiled and revealed the answer, "Old Uncle Zhong taught me. Whether you can let him teach you depends on your ability. ."

Li Xinhe's eyes became brighter and he nodded heavily.

Let's just say that a scholar who has memorized the arguments from "Conong Jun March" has no dream of being able to settle the world with his pen and settle the world with his martial arts.

His expression gradually darkened, and scattered torches illuminated various places in Pingshan Village. Li Xinhe sent Li Xiaohan home, and Fang turned back home.

Late at night, people returning home gradually fall asleep, with the moonlight shining brightly, just waiting for dawn.

=== Chapter === 187

The busy days passed quickly, and in the blink of an eye, Li Xiaohan's night school had been open for some time. Even though they were busy with various chores at home and outside the house on weekdays, the women of Pingshan Village never missed a day of classes.

I heard that the war in Qicheng was very chaotic. Although no young men in Pingshan Village were drafted for military service because of Li Xiaohan, people always have relatives and friends, and there are always news of this and that. How to avoid the impact of war.

The war situation in the whole city is at a stalemate, and the beacon of war is like a dark cloud in our hearts. Everyone is more attentive to this life-saving ability. Therefore, the night school in Pingshan Village is not open today, and everyone is quite uncomfortable.

There was no class on this day, and I always felt like something was missing. What if I learn this one day and just use it?

However, those who didn't adapt and had no choice, all went to Fucheng because of the lecturer Li Xiaohan. I heard that the official from Fucheng sent someone to pick her up. There was something very important, and the women in Pingshan Village could only rest for two days.

In Fucheng, Li Xiaohan, who was missed by everyone, was frowning and listening to the reports of his colleagues.

"Master Li, this year's ash harvest will be great, but what should we do if we can't sell it?"

The officials in charge of white wax in Fucheng are so worried that their hair is almost gray. In the past, white wax sold well, and they never worried about sales. They only worried about insufficient production. In the past, their biggest pressure was that people from all walks of life were urging them. goods.

This year, the situation has been reversed. There are piles of white wax in the warehouse, but people everywhere are waiting for the white wax to be sold in exchange for various supplies.

The gap is so big that it is really unacceptable.

"Not sold at all?" Li Xiaohan looked at the inventory recorded in the document and was also shocked by this number.

Being summoned urgently from Pingshan Village, I thought it was an accident, but who knew it was a sales problem. However, this sales problem is more difficult to solve than other accidents.

"That's not true. Many small businessmen came quietly from the surrounding towns, and we also sold a lot." The official said in embarrassment, lowering his voice, "It's that side of Jiangnan, that side of Jiangnan It is the largest white wax sales area, and nearly 70% of scented candles are sold there. Now that Jiangnan is not here, there will be a lot of goods piled up. What should we do now? "

Li Xiaohan understood at once. Due to certain considerations, the merchants in Jiangnan used to have the agency rights in the capital. It can be said that the merchants in Jiangnan occupied the two largest markets in Beijing and Jiangnan in one fell swoop. Now that the new emperor and King Ding are fighting in Dingcheng, Jiangnan must have some concerns.

In particular, large-scale transactions between Dingcheng and Jiangnan have always only accepted goods such as grain, ironware, etc. This was very sensitive during wartime.

It's a bit difficult to handle. Li Xiaohan felt troubled.

"Master Li, do we want to change our strategy? Let's stop making scented candles and make ordinary white wax instead? Or, let's switch to gold and silver?" Seeing that Li Xiaohan didn't say anything, the official quietly suggested road. There is no other way. White wax is one of the most important industries in Dingcheng. If they remain in a stalemate like this, they will be driven to death.

Li Xiaohan thought for a while and slowly shook his head, "No, gold and silver have to be replaced with food and grass to maintain the expenses of the city and the front line. According to the current situation, we will have real gold by then. It's not even easy to buy food and grass with silver."

At this time, real money and silver may not be as practical as Dingcheng's goods.

However, staying in a stalemate is not the answer. Li Xiaohan thought for a while and asked, "Has Mr. Zhang got any information back?"

Zhang Fu followed King Ding to conquer Qi City, but Li Xiaohan believed in Zhang Fu's prudence and there must be arrangements for Bai Wa's affairs.

"Master Zhang replied a few days ago and just said that we should wait." The official said, and added, "But Master Zhang said that if we are undecided, we can ask you. ."

After all, the understanding of the correspondence was limited, and due to the time delay between the two parties, the official approached Li Xiaohan - everyone knew that the two of them had been responsible for the white wax matter in previous years.

"Then just wait." Li Xiaohan nodded. The information she could receive from Zhang Fu was a few days ago. Although there was no way to reveal too much about the situation in the army, but based on the tone of Zhang Fu's letter, Qi Cheng In the first battle, we should be confident, "Be careful to preserve the white wax and make sure it is not contaminated by insects."

Once the Battle of Qicheng is settled, there is no telling how the situation will change.

When the officials saw that Li Xiaohan said the same thing, they finally settled down. Mr. Li and Mr. Zhang are so smart. They originally started the pewter business, so there must be no problem.

"However, according to the original plan, half of our scented candles will be made first, and the rest will depend on the current situation." Li Xiaohan thought for a while and changed some details.

After all, it is a war, and ordinary people should not have much sentiment to play with aromatherapy. Only the extremely wealthy people can continue to enjoy it. If this is the case, then the output will be reduced, and the price will not change. Pewter wax is basically exclusive to Dingcheng, and no one can beat down the price. Besides, in this situation, those who still have enough money and time to play with scented candles are not the ones who are short of the slight price difference.

"Yes, Mr. Li."

"Don't worry, it's not us who are anxious. The trade routes south of the Yangtze River are blocked, not only the white wax, but also allicin and alcohol." Seeing the officials' anxiety, Li Xiaohan comforted him.

"Master Li, you mean..." Upon hearing the news, the official's eyes lit up.

Yes, I can tolerate it for a while without the white wax, but without good medicine, half of my body will be roasted on the fire, making me restless.

Let's see who can survive.

The official who can take over the matter of Bai Wa is not a stupid person. He can't think about it for a while. It's just that the matter is too important and he is too nervous.

Jiangnan, as Li Xiaohan expected, although the Jiangnan merchants represented by Mr. Su and his son have returned to their old nest, they are restless and have no intention of admiring them even if they are covered with silk. The delicacies are also tasteless.

No goods, no goods.

No candles, no allicin, no alcohol, no that new Eucommia gum, nothing!

The imperial court has explicitly banned grain transactions with Dingcheng, but there are always those powerful and well-informed wealthy businessmen who come to Mr. Su, either with coercion or inducement, hoping to get life-saving alcohol, allicin, etc. . There are also those high-ranking ladies who vaguely complain that without all kinds of scented candles, it is really uncomfortable to use the oil wax from the past. Although beeswax is not bad, it is The output is too small, unlike white wax, it can be used freely.

Mr. Su was overwhelmed by the urging. He really had no goods. The goods in Dingcheng had always been very popular. They always sold as much as they had. With the war starting so urgently, Mr. Su didn't stock up on goods at all.

If Dingcheng is willing to accept gold and silver treasures, Mr. Su can grit his teeth and break them into pieces, and he can quietly get some goods back.

But Dingcheng only accepts grain and ironware. At this moment, who dares to transport grain to Dingcheng. If it is explained that it is a purely commercial transaction, will anyone believe it? !

Of course the court didn't believe it, but everyone didn't really believe that Mr. Su and others didn't have any inventory. What I'm urging now is just hoping that Mr. Su will spit out the stuff in his mouth.

How could Mr. Su spit it out of thin air?

Is this all, we can only wait?

Master Su himself can wait, but some people may not be able to wait. I'm afraid that the powerful people urging the goods won't be able to wait, I'm afraid that Li Xiaohan won't be able to wait, not being able to make money is now a trivial matter, I'm afraid of offending people, and I'm afraid of losing my way out.

The more Mr. Su thought about it, the more anxious he became. He paced back and forth and circled repeatedly, almost smoothing the floor tiles in his living room.

However, his son stabbed Mr. Su in the heart, "Dad, we found out that the amount of allicin in Qinggang has at least doubled than before."

"Really? Did you calculate correctly?" Mr. Su stopped, stared at his eldest son, and asked urgently,

"There is nothing wrong anymore." Young Master Su bit his gums and replied, "We have been investigating for a long time. The Qinggang's allicin transaction has always been very confidential, and they have always been very tight-lipped. We can't investigate. The number and objects of Qinggang's transactions were revealed. But recently, Mr. Eighth Accountant of our Chamber of Commerce spent a month reversely calculating Qinggang's cargo carrying volume from last month forward, and finally concluded that in the previous month, their cargo Capacity suddenly doubled."

What they calculated was not the cargo carrying capacity of allicin. Allicin is expensive, small and easy to hide. They calculated the cargo carrying capacity of Qinggang from south to north. Although the whole city is at war, the trade routes are still uninterrupted, they just go from light to dark in a short time.

The Qing Gang has always followed a secret path, but since the war started, they have become even more popular.

I don't know if they have been trading with Li Xiaohan for a long time. The Qing Gang likes to barter. After selling all kinds of goods transported from Dingcheng, they continue to sell goods. They travel all over the country, from east to west, and this is what they make. price difference.

The Qing Gang returned from the south and passed through the Jiangnan Waterway. The Jiangnan Chamber of Commerce has been operating for a long time and has penetrated deeply into the government. Although it is not legal to obtain the Qing Gang's banknote and commercial tax data, it is not impossible.

"They have nearly doubled their expansion. Where did the capital come from? Unless they ship from Dingcheng, they have also doubled." Mr. Su frowned and murmured calculations. Li Xiaohan's style is extremely conservative and steady, and it is impossible to do it all at once. Due to the rapid expansion of the company, it can only be that the shipment volume in the original plan has been moved to Qinggang.

After King Ding raised his flag, they in Jiangnan showed their submissiveness to the capital to avoid suspicion, and also to wait and see, and never went to Dingcheng again. This can obviously be deduced that Li Xiaohan transferred the shipment volume given to them to Qinggang.

"These are all our goods. The Qing Gang took our share." Mr. Su clutched his chest tightly and sat on the Taishi chair next to him.

"Dad, Dad, are you okay? Have a sip of hot tea and take a moment." Young Master Su was startled and quickly gave his father hot tea. "Dad, it's okay. When the situation stabilizes, we will Let's go back. We are regular customers of Miss Li. If we show some sincerity, Miss Li will return our share to us."

"Who can say what kind of situation is stable?" Mr. Su sighed.

How this situation will turn out in the end, who can say for sure.

Now it seems that the imperial court has the advantage, but the chaos in Qicheng has not settled down for a long time, and King Ding actually has the power to stalemate with the imperial court.

If the imperial court wins in the end and they lose contact with Li Xiaohan, they are afraid that there will be chaos and the secret recipe is lost or leaked, and they will enter the treasure mountain and come out empty-handed.

Mr. Su didn't just guess out of thin air. It was because the Qing Gang had gone too far south and was about to reach the barbarian land. Mr. Su had some vague guesses. If it was true, he would be able to help Miss Li by then. I believe Miss Li would not treat him badly.

If...if so, King Ding wins in the end, and they made the wrong bet.

Wealth has always been like pulling chestnuts from the fire. For a top-notch wealthy family like Mr. Su, if they want to move up a level, it is worth taking some risks.

It would be best if there was a way to tie up both sides. No matter which side wins, Jiangnan will be able to benefit from both sides.

Mr. Su secretly thought about how he could get the best of both worlds.

"Dad, why don't you talk to a few uncles and the others to discuss this?" Mr. Su didn't say anything for a long time, so Young Master Su wanted to relieve his father's worries.

"No need." Mr. Su waved his hand. At this time, any actions should be carried out quietly, "Boss, please call the second and third sons over."

The second young master Su and the third young master Su arrived very quickly. The four father and son waved off their servants and began to discuss in secret.

"I am going to send a person to Dingcheng quietly to contact Miss Li. There is no need to trade now, just keep in touch." Mr. Li glanced at his three sons and mentally evaluated which son was suitable.

I believe that a smart person like Miss Li should be able to understand her sincerity and unfulfilled intentions when she sees her son.

Although the three young masters of the Su family didn't quite understand what their own father meant, they vaguely felt that their family really couldn't lose the way of allicin and alcohol. It was such a pity.

"Dad, let me go. As the boss, I should take the lead." Young Master Su spoke up first. He was trained as the eldest son and heir, and he should bear this responsibility at this time.

Master Su looked at Young Master Su without saying anything, but his eyes were not very satisfied.

Young Master Su's status as the eldest son is enough, but unfortunately, Young Master Su has been in the capital in the past and has not directly dealt with Li Xiaohan. Without familiarity and tacit understanding, trust will be lost. And this trust is what is very important next.

When it comes to familiarity and trust, there is actually one person who is more familiar to him. Master Su turned his eyes to Young Master Su San.

The hairs on Young Master Su San's back stood up, "Dad, I can't do it. It's not that I'm afraid, but I'll tell you the truth. As long as no one knows about the idea you had, it's fine. If Zhang Er Master, I know, our family can't afford to eat and we have to go around in circles."

Young Master Su San refused repeatedly. He would rather go to the capital in place of his brother than implement his father's plan. Which of those two people can he afford to offend?

Compared with being discovered that his father wanted to give him to Miss Li as a bride, sneaking into Dingcheng quietly was not that dangerous.

And when he looked in the mirror recently, it wasn't to boast, but Young Master Su realized that he looked exactly like Young Master Zhang. Even more scared!

No future!

Mr. Su hates that iron cannot become steel. If he were decades younger and had the appearance of the third child, he would have done it himself. Madam, what are you afraid of if she is too strong? She can be carried away and she still has to crawl by herself. How can Mr. Zhang be able to bear with him when the time comes?

It's just that the third child is timid and will not succeed in the end.

Mr. Su's eyes turned back to the boss.

"Dad, let me go. My eldest brother is often in the capital and is not familiar with Dingcheng. I signed a contract with Miss Hehua and ordered a lot of livestock. Although there is a reason for our breach of contract, if it is for the future, I'd better explain it clearly." At this time, Master Su Second stood up and said in a somewhat honest tone.

"Second brother, are you familiar with Miss Lotus?"

"No... not very familiar." Young Master Su actually smiled honestly, "Miss Hehua is so good, she can write and do calculations, and is smart and capable. In the past, I ordered livestock from their village, and Miss Hehua helped us. A lot of people are busy, and they also told us that we should breed and sell in batches, so that we can do it in the long run. We said we would make this business big."

The allicin residue farming technology is so good. At that time, they also wanted to make dried cured meat and sell it all over the country.

Mr. Su looked at his second son's slightly honest face, as if he was meeting his son for the first time, and made Mr. Su's heart beat.

"Dad, believe me, I..."

"Okay, second son, you're the one to go." Mr. Su said in a crisp voice, "You're here, explain it to Miss Hehua."

Unexpectedly, the second child is the most like me. He is indeed his own son and smart.

Well, as a man, Elder San's face alone is of no use, he has to have a heart.

"Hey, Dad." Second Young Master Su was delighted to be praised for his thoughtfulness.

Even if he decided to go to Dingcheng, he didn't do it immediately. The situation was chaotic at this time, and the Su family's identity was a bit conspicuous, so the second young master Su had to travel quietly.

But traveling quietly does not mean there are few people. Especially now that the situation is unstable, it is even more important to have a trustworthy and skilled guard.

When going to Dingcheng, you can't leave empty-handed. You have to be polite when you come to apologize and build relationships. Although you can't bring food and grass, you can't bring gold, silver, jewelry, etc. If you express your apology and sincerity, it will be even more important. Sincerely - Although banknotes are convenient, Miss Li doesn't seem to like them very much.

So, it took several days to get all the preparations down. In order to cover up his whereabouts, Second Young Master Su had to go around in a circle, pretending to go on a business trip, and then rush to Dingcheng.

On this day, Second Young Master Su was finally ready to set off.

It's not easy.

Several men of the Su family gathered in the living room to say goodbye to Young Master Su. On the surface, Young Master Su was just traveling for an ordinary trip, but they and his son knew the ultimate goal of this trip, so there were many risks, but it was also very important. .

"Master, Master, it's not good, it's not good."

Just as he was getting ready to go out, his confidant butler hurried in and said something.

"What's wrong?" Mr. Su was a little impatient, feeling that it was difficult to say at this time, which was a bit unlucky.

But the housekeeper is also a confidant. Logically speaking, he would not be so ignorant, so Mr. Su had to be patient.

The butler looked around and saw that Mr. Su's face gradually became serious and he waved away his servants.

"Sir, the latest battle report is that King Ding captured Qi City and the imperial court was defeated."

The imperial court was defeated. Mr. Su was shocked at first, and then became very excited - the greatest danger lurked the greatest opportunity.

Could it be...could it be...from Long...

As long as the profits are sufficient, capitalists are willing to take all risks.

Be quick, be quick!

The second brother needs to get to Dingcheng as soon as possible.

Mr. Su's heart beat as fast as a drum.

"Sir, I heard that the imperial army was divided and the battle of Qicheng was not used at all. Now the imperial army has arrived at Dingcheng."

=== Chapter === 188

Li Xiaohan knew that the imperial court had divided its forces, so he used the Battle of Qicheng as a cover to secretly send troops to attack Dingcheng, much earlier than Mr. Su in Jiangnan.

While the army of the imperial court was still heading straight to Dingcheng, before King Ding captured Qicheng, and after returning to the village after dealing with the white wax incident in Fucheng, it was a calm afternoon with everything going on along the way. Qingsong flew back and brought back the news.

The letter brought back urgently from thousands of miles away was still written by Zhang Fu, but the handwriting was very sloppy. It was obvious that the person who wrote the letter was extremely anxious at the time. The letter only had a few key words about the current situation, and even directly said, "If you want to know the details, You can ask Qingsong in detail, I have asked Qingsong to answer all questions."

Li Xiaohan's brows gradually tightened, and he asked Qingsong again, his whole heart sinking: "So you said that the imperial court has not tried its best in Qicheng, but used Qicheng to drag the prince's troops, but secretly it is Gather the troops and attack Dingcheng directly?"

"That's right." Qingsong's words were filled with dryness and bitterness that overflowed from his throat. He didn't know whether it was due to the rush or the battle situation.

Li Xiaohan felt chills in his heart, as if he had goosebumps - under the war, even King Ding was controlled by fate. It didn't matter how well prepared she was, under the iron heel of the war, her personal The strength is so weak that it is simply vulnerable.

Could it be that we can only rise and fall at the mercy of fate?

No!

Even in such a place, Li Xiaohan still forced himself to calm down as much as possible and tried to sort out his clues, "The military strength of the imperial court is so strong? The prince and the others have never noticed it?"

That shouldn't be the case. Fighting should be something that King Ding is good at.

"The person sent by the imperial court to Qicheng is General Zheng. General Zheng is the founding hero of this dynasty and has made great military achievements." Qingsong's face covered with dust was bitter, "In addition, General Zheng and us previously We fought together against the Western and Northern Tartar Allied Forces. General Zheng showed his loyalty and uprightness. I really didn't expect that General Zheng actually planned to attack the east and attack the west. Now the imperial army is coming straight towards Dingcheng with great force. I found it too late."

No wonder the Battle of Qicheng lasted for so long. It turned out to be to drag King Ding away and to cover up the court's real goal.

Now it seems that this is the case. It is meaningless to just talk about the past. The most important thing is the future. Li Xiaohan continued to ask, "How will the prince respond to the enemy in the current situation?"

Even if the battle situation is unfavorable, King Ding is not a passive person to be beaten.

"Miss Li, we knew it too late. Even if the main force of the prince's army set off from Qicheng immediately, it would be too late to come back to defend Dingcheng. Besides, General Zheng leading the army, even if it is a bluff, will not let the prince get away easily. Therefore, the prince decided to fight quickly with General Zheng and capture the whole city before rushing back to Fucheng for support."

It is indeed King Ding's style to move his troops in danger and break the situation with force. And as long as you do it, it is the best strategy.

But in this case, Dingcheng will be in danger. Whether Dingcheng can be defended without the elite soldiers and generals, Li Xiaohan asked urgently, "How to arrange the city?"

"The prince has returned with an order, instructing the princess and the prince to take charge of the overall situation, lock the city gates tightly, and defend the city to the death."

Dingcheng, victory or defeat all depends on Dingcheng.

Defend the city to death.

Take Dingcheng directly.

If the imperial court obtains Dingcheng, King Ding will lose his base camp. Even if he obtains the entire city, he will still be like a tree without a root, a tree without a source, and will inevitably suffer defeat.

If the princess and the prince hold Dingcheng until the prince returns to rescue them, the imperial court will lose two battles and be seriously injured. King Ding will gain both Qicheng and Dingcheng. Force and wealth will complement each other, and there will be a steady stream of vitality in the future.

"Miss Li, Master hopes that Miss Li will come to the city with me immediately. Master has already made arrangements." Qingsong saluted and said eagerly.

Nowadays, the most dangerous place in the city is within Fucheng, and the safest place is also within Fucheng.

The situation was critical and every second counted, but Li Xiaohan did not leave immediately as Qingsong wished, but continued to lower his head and read the letter.

Different from the simple and direct part of the first half, the second half is written in a large space. After the army besieged Dingcheng, her position and situation became very dangerous. Allicin, alcohol, Panax notoginseng styptic powder, etc. are very important to the army's logistics. With General Zheng Because of her loyalty, she will definitely plan a secret recipe for the court. She told Li Xiaohan to pay attention and immediately follow Qingsong back to Fucheng to escape. With her official status and importance, even if the city gate is closed, Qingsong can still bring the token. A small door can be opened for her to enter the city and take shelter.

"Miss Li, time is running out. You can come with me right away." Qing Song saw that Li Xiaohan's gaze had dropped to the end, but he didn't make any move, so he urged hurriedly.

Li Xiaohan paused for a moment, then looked at the letter and shook his head, showing a smile that seemed a little helpless but finally relieved, "It's too late."

"You were ordered to come back privately. No matter how fast you go, you can't be faster than the prince's messenger. Presumably the city gate is closed at this moment."

"Miss Li, I have the general's token and the master's letter on me. I will show you the token and the master's letter, and there will be buffer time."

He actually got General Zhang's token.

"Qingsong, it is precisely because I have the general's order that I cannot be this special person. At such an important moment, even if I don't understand the military situation, the princess and the prince will be under great pressure to defend the city. If I had the general's order, Open the city gate and enter the city, where will the Zhang family be placed? Where will the ban be placed on the princess and the prince? "

As a surrendered general, Zhang Mansion behaves very low-key. The city gate is closed, but asking to open the city gate will inevitably put Zhang Mansion on fire.

As the princess and the prince were ordered to defend the city, they had great responsibilities and pressures. Once the exception was made, the impact would be even greater.

"Miss Li, you don't have to be embarrassed. Please obey the authority when the matter is urgent. However, the general agrees with the young master's doing this. Before coming, the young master also told me that the prince's girl does not need to worry, he will take care of it." Qingsong explained quickly. road.

"If there is one, there must be two. The city gate is closed. If it is opened for me again, how will other officials and family members view it? It will definitely be extremely difficult for the princess and the prince."

Li Xiaohan interrupted Qingsong's persuasion, "Besides, General Zheng is planning secret recipes for allicin, Panax notoginseng styptic powder, etc., but I am not the only one in Pingshan Village to know these secret recipes. If I hide, the court will The people I sent couldn't find me, so the whole village, old and young, is taking the blame for me. If it's to protect the secret recipe, then everyone must be taken to the capital, which is impossible."

It takes much more time for young and old to evacuate together than alone, and they are particularly conspicuous in front of the city gate. If Li Xiaohan rushed to Fucheng to escape alone at this moment, there was still a slight chance of entering the city, but if the whole Pingshan Village was mobilized, there would be no chance.

Li Xiaohan has been working hard to use the people of Pingshan Village as his backing and strength in troubled times, and now his goal has been achieved.

But at this moment, Li Xiaohan could not leave the people of Pingshan Village and hide on his own, nor could he take the whole village to hide in the capital.

Destiny is one, success or failure is one, and we must bear its weight and responsibility after all.

"I..." Although Qingsong didn't know Li Xiaohan's plan, he understood that what Li Xiaohan said was the truth. His lips were slightly opened, and he couldn't say any words.

This is already a dead end, with no solution and a dead end.

"I already know what the Second Young Master is thinking. Qingsong, you have completed your mission very well. The news you brought is very important to me, but I also have my own choices and actions. You can go back and revive the Second Young Master. ."

At this time, I could send someone to tell her the news urgently and make arrangements for her. This feeling is as heavy as a thousand pounds. Their acquaintance was by chance, and their cooperation was due to the current situation. Each got what they needed, but now, it is no longer possible with ordinary cooperation.

If there is an opportunity in the future, if there is a future, I should devote all my efforts to repay it.

I just don't know if there will be another chance in the future. I don't even know if there will be a future.

After making a choice, Li Xiaohan signaled Qingsong to leave as soon as possible and return to life. Unexpectedly, Qingsong made no move and only said: "Second Young Master said, if you don't leave, Miss Li, my next mission is to stay by your side." , obey your orders and protect you."

Li Xiaohan was stunned for a moment.

She was very touched when Zhang Fu sent Qingsong back to deliver the message. She could handle it knowing that Zhang Fu had obtained the general's token and sent her into the city. However, she could understand this because the goals and interests were the same.

But at this moment, after making arrangements to be rejected by her, then respecting her decision, and silently guarding her stability, she lost her mind for a moment.

I never thought that someone could do this. I know the difference in ideas between you and me. I don't agree with it, but I support you.

In the blink of an eye, I don't know how long it has passed. It seems that many long emotions have emerged, but only after a moment, everything is suppressed in my heart. Li Xiaohan comes back to his senses, showing a smile and bright eyes. , took a deep breath and stood up, "Let's go to the clan leader and discuss what to do next."

Since he is not escaping alone and has to inform the clan to make preparations, there is no need to keep this news tightly under wraps. Discuss the countermeasures as early as possible and how to face it, so that all the preparations you have made beforehand will be in vain.

A moment later, at Patriarch Li's house, Patriarch Li, his third uncle, Li Xinhe and others gathered together.

Qingsong repeated the current situation to everyone, and dark clouds suddenly gathered between everyone's brows. No one among the common people liked war, especially when this war came directly to him.

After a moment of silence, Patriarch Li quickly accepted the fact and broke the silence, "Everyone, tell us what you think. We have to come up with ideas as soon as possible."

"The old, weak, women and children in the clan must be arranged as soon as possible and moved to the back mountain." Li Xinhe said first. He was originally a meticulous and considerate person, but now he has become a little cautious about retreating before advancing. .

"We can't retreat blindly. We young and strong people still have to give it a try. Our wealth and lives are all here. How many efforts have been made, how many workshops, and our exemption from military service must be conditional. Yes, if the army comes and we can't find anyone to burn everything down, it will be even more difficult for us later. In troubled times, we can only survive by licking blood with the blade of a knife." Li Shengyi licked his chapped lips.

The few middle-aged men in the back showed their approval - without this foundation, they might have to serve in the military, and they would have to risk their lives, so why not fight here and now. Even if he dies, he still stays in his hometown.

"You have to fight hard, but you have to retain your strength." The third uncle stomped his cane, "Send Xiaohan and Xinhe away with the boys and girls in the village, and send some young people to protect them. Let us old guys stay."

"I won't leave, take Xiaohan away."

"I won't leave, let Xin and Brother go."

Li Xiaohan and Li Xinhe spoke in unison. They looked at each other and saw the persistence in each other's eyes, and then they both turned to helplessness.

"No, you two must go together." The clan leader said, "I will stay, Xinhe will take people away, and take over the position of clan leader. Xiaohan, you must also go together. Only with you are there hope for the clan to rise again. "

"Patriarch, listen to me, I won't leave because my life will not be in danger no matter what." Li Xiaohan said, trying his best to persuade others, "The imperial court is here for the secret recipe, and I am valuable only if I am alive. When I am here, the people in the court will have some scruples."

"Xiaohan, you are still too young. You must know that when fighting, the sword has no eyes. You don't know how the Lord of Hell uses it to win over people." The patriarch persuaded him earnestly. Young people don't know how rare it is to be alive. As for things, sometimes the more talented you are, the happier God will be and the faster you will receive them.

"Be prepared in advance. With me and Qingsong here, it won't happen. As long as you don't come to a camp with more than a thousand people, you can act according to the situation and take Miss Li away without a problem." At this time, Li Xiaohan had been standing silently behind him. Old Uncle Zhong spoke.

Everyone seemed to suddenly realize that Old Uncle Zhong, who had been silent and invisible behind Li Xiaohan, remembered that Old Uncle Zhong was a man who retired from the battlefield. He was in Baoshan without knowing it, "According to your experience, Old Zhong, you How many people do you think will come? Look, you have been in our village for so long. You don't recognize any of the men in the village. Do we have the strength to fight in our village?"

"According to my experience, the imperial court has been preparing for so long, and even sent General Zheng to Qicheng to hold the prince back. Then they must win the city. They must win, and they must compete for credit. Compared with taking down the city, getting a secret recipe is really a trivial achievement. Not many people are willing to come, and those who come will not be strong."

"In this case, even with the instructions of General Zheng, the Chinese army has been lax for a long time. The special troops sent to capture a girl from a mountain village will definitely not be the main force. According to the capital's organizational system, there should be three or four teams. , that is, between one hundred and two hundred people."

Old Uncle Zhong did not refuse and said in detail, "According to what I know about the combat strength of such a number of people, if a young man fights hard, he has a 50% chance of winning."

"There's a 50% chance, you can do it." A man said loudly with his eyes bright and excited.

When the patriarch heard about the 50% chance, he breathed a sigh of relief. He originally thought that he would have to risk his life to make up for it. "Since I have your guarantee, Lao Zhong, then Xiaohan will entrust it to you. As for Xinhe, , you must leave. You take your people and retreat to the back mountains. You are not allowed to come back unless you are 100% safe. Once we lose, you take your people and hide in the mountains to preserve the last hope for the clan."

That is a tacit agreement to give it a try.

Just, "Dad..."

Li Xinhe obviously has different opinions.

"This is an order given by me, as the clan leader, on behalf of the clan. Unless the majority of people here think that I am selfish and more than half of them are against it, you must obey the order." clan leader Li said in a deep voice.

Li Xinhe looked at everyone for help, but unfortunately everyone lowered their heads when facing Li Xinhe's look for help - Xinhe, a scholar, is still weak, so he must protect the seeds of hope well.

Even Li Xiaohan avoided Li Xinhe's gaze. Rationally speaking, the patriarch's decision was correct.

"...Yes, clan leader."

If no one else objects, the clan leader's decision is the clan's decision.

Once the decision has been made, all that remains is to discuss the details: who will prepare for war and who will withdraw? What to prepare for war? What preparations should be made for evacuation? What signals do the two parties communicate with? What if an accident occurs?

All aspects must be considered thoroughly in the shortest possible time and everyone must work together to prevent omissions.

Li Xiaohan listened silently, and only said softly at the end, "I have some ideas."

=== Chapter === 189

The autumn air is crisp, the sky is broad and the clouds are light.

It was obviously good weather for the autumn harvest. On the way to Pingshan Village, as far as the eye could see, there were large tracts of fertile fields, but not a single farmer was seen busy among them.

In the field, rice stalks that had been harvested in a hurry were still scattered, and there was no time to turn them over to dry and landfill; in the pepper field, the leaves of the peppers had become sparse, and occasionally there were still a few red and green peppers left; The garlic field is still densely packed with garlic. At this time, garlic heads are still growing. It is really not the time to harvest...

A group of sturdy men and horses passed by the roadside, carrying swords, shields, bows and arrows. The horses were strong and the men were fat, well-equipped, and imposing. One of the leaders, riding a big brown horse and wearing armor, slowly looked at the pepper and garlic field with slightly squinted eyes, and there was a vague hint in his eyes that he was determined to win.

"Boss Liu, I haven't seen many people along the way. Is there something wrong?" At this time, a deputy-looking man rode up to the leader and whispered in a low voice.

The officer known as Mr. Liu frowned slightly, but he said nonchalantly, "They are just some timid farmers who could have avoided us by watching us from a distance. Besides, we are bringing you this time. We have two hundred people, and we have strong soldiers and horses. If there is any accident, we are afraid that we will not be able to invite Miss Li away from the small mountain village."

What you say to please is nothing more than nice words.

"Yes, yes, what Mr. Ba said is true." The deputy nodded repeatedly, obviously very much in agreement. Seeing that Mr. Liu had no intention of continuing to speak, the deputy quickly stepped back in recognition.

Little did he know that Mr. Liu said he was confident, but his heart was still clouded. He was sure of this mission, but he was thinking about how to maximize his interests.

In order to capture Dingcheng, the imperial court sent General Zheng to drag the main force of King Ding to Qicheng. Only the princess and the prince were in charge of Dingcheng. The Crown Prince has little experience, and Princess Ding is just a woman. However, the imperial court is surrounded by nearly ten times the number of troops, intentionally or not. It is inevitable to capture Ding City.

Everyone thinks that this is a must-win battle. There will be more people who are interested in taking advantage of it. With more people, the relationship will become more complicated. The leading general must be able to suppress it in all aspects. It is said that the emperor selected Uncle Guo after many considerations. Uncle Guo is the successor of Yu Gong and has a profound family education. There are vague rumors that Uncle Guo and the Emperor have formulated various plans, and all of them have been proved. Taking the city is a matter of searching the bag to retrieve the items. The only difference is time.

Mr. Liu's sister was the concubine of his uncle's confidant. With a close relationship, he also managed to get a quota. It's just that he has a relationship that is not on the stage. If he wants to compete with those nobles for credit, that's not possible. He simply doesn't take the right path and doesn't take the credit for entering the city. He just wants to gain. A bit biased.

I heard General Zheng repeatedly telling me that there is a girl Li in Dingcheng, who is the one who developed styptic powder, allicin, and white wax. When I go to Dingcheng, I must win over Miss Li.

According to the news that Mr. Liu found out from his counselor's brother-in-law, Uncle Guo planned to go to Miss Li after taking Dingcheng. I think Miss Li would never refuse.

Mr. Liu blew a pillow wind through his sister, and then opened up the door. He asked for orders to lead his men to invite Miss Li back before the war started - the excuse he used was that he was afraid that the time would come. Miss Li didn't know what the court wanted, so she ran away. It would take time and delay everyone's return to the court, which was not good. It is better to send someone to "invite" Miss Li in advance to protect her and ensure that nothing goes wrong.

It's just that this matter can easily conflict with the time of the army's siege. Moreover, even if the time does not conflict, according to certain unspoken rules, if you get this credit, you can no longer be greedy - there are so many honors, but you can't get them. As if the credit was not enough, everyone secretly began to make their own plans. Mr. Liu first took away his greatest contribution from this trip, so it was naturally easy to succeed.

Now, Mr. Liu is always thinking about how to expand his credit - since Ms. Li can come up with the secret recipe for styptic powder and allicin, she must be able to come up with others. Maybe there are other secrets in Pingshan Village. Although Mr. Liu has two hundred people with him, he does not want to stalemate the relationship if it is not necessary. It is best if Miss Li can be more sensible and everyone will be better off.

I was thinking deeply in my mind, and suddenly a low voice exclaimed from around me, "What's that behind?"

This exclamation brought Mr. Liu back to his attention. He reined in his horse and looked back. He saw a haystack burning behind him, and smoke rising into the sky - a team of two hundred people came over. I didn't even see anyone's shadow on the road. At this time, the haystacks were suddenly burned. It was definitely not composting.

The flames of war are nothing more than conveying some news.

Mr. Liu frowned even more tightly.

"Boss, do you want to send a few brothers to arrest this person?" the deputy came up quickly and asked.

It's a bit far away, and this is not their territory. For an uncertain matter, they need to find a few old farmers who are hiding. Going back and forth will easily waste time. Mr. Liu assessed in his heart.

Besides, General Liu glanced at his own troops and horses. Those who came this time were his confidants and well-equipped. No matter what the accident was, it was better to go straight to the destination.

"No, let's go." Mr. Liu shouted softly, waved his riding whip, and continued to move forward.

"Walk."

People walked farther and farther without looking back.

Behind them, where the smoke and fire broke out, two farmers who were hiding quietly poked their heads out, their faces still filled with panic.

"Qian Laosan, you have good eyesight. Have they left? Is anyone chasing them? Yiwuerer75281" A slightly younger farmer spoke in a low voice first.

"Let's go, let's go." Qian Lao said three times with the joy of escaping from death. He searched around carefully with his eyes and said with certainty, "No one is chasing us."

"Then tell me, of the ten branches of allicin that Miss Li gave to our clan, do two of them now belong to us?"

"Yeah." Qian Laosan nodded and finally showed a smile.

Two days ago, the Li family sent people to inform their clan that the imperial army would besiege the city. They also revealed the news that a large group of people might go straight to Li's Pingshan Village. The people of Pingshan Village were paid with ten sticks of allicin. They hoped that if the surrounding villages saw a large group of people going to Pingshan Village, they would burn haystack smoke as a signal to inform them of the news and location.

This is a very dangerous thing, because when a large group of people passes by, they are likely to turn around and shoot the person who tipped off the information. The Li family also mentioned the risks of this matter and would not force it.

Qian Laosan has patients at home, and allicin is too expensive for people like them. He usually wouldn't dare to think about it, but now he wants to give it a try. The young Qian Duozi is free from illness and pain, but it is very likely that Qian Duozi will be drafted next time, so he is willing to take a chance and prepare for himself.

In fact, even if there was no allicin, the Li clan informed them of the siege by the imperial army, and their clan was willing to take this risk for the Li clan - Dingcheng was on the border, and they knew very well that foreign sieges often drove away Han people. Attacking the city first will directly consume the bows and arrows of the defenders and shake the morale of the army.

Although the imperial army is not a foreign race, in the current situation, who can guarantee that the imperial court will not "conscript" people like them near Ding City to be used as consumables in the first wave of siege.

Now that the Li family has notified them in advance, they can notify their relatives and friends to hide. Moreover, in these villages around Dingcheng, who has not benefited from the benefits of pepper, white wax, and allicin? Their homes are full of garlic, and the bits and pieces are also a source of income. This winter It's time to buy a pair of cotton-padded clothes, as well as ash seedlings in the mountains. Next year when the seedlings grow bigger, you can start to raise a few ash worms...

I shouldn't have taken those ten sticks of allicin, but the people of the Li family said that sending messages is risky. If nothing happens, it's okay. The person who lit the fire will get one stick. If... those ten sticks of garlic Su then stayed and made proper arrangements for his family.

I have even thought about properly arranging my funeral arrangements. These days, there has only been peace for a few years, especially since Dingcheng is located on the border, human life is not valuable.

"I wonder if the people in the next village have seen the smoke we burned? Have they continued to report the news to Miss Li?" Qian Laosan looked ahead in the distance, and the joy of getting allicin was quickly overshadowed by sadness, "Miss Li and the others can Hide!"

The people from the imperial court must have gone to Pingshan Village for Miss Li's secret recipe. Otherwise, farmers like them would not be worthy of the imperial court sending people all the way to capture them.

Qian Laosan was very worried. He crawled out from his hiding place and kept staring in the direction of Pingshan Village.

Less than half an hour later, in the direction of Liujiacun ahead, a thick plume of smoke rose up into the sky, and then gradually dissipated in mid-air.

Qian Laosan's heart wrinkled even tighter.

Seeing the thick smoke behind him again, Mr. Liu was extremely angry. He is not stupid. He has determined time and time again that these farmers are passing on information to the people of Pingshan Village.

Obviously, the news leaked out from nowhere, and Miss Li already knew the purpose of their group. The most important thing is that the people in Pingshan Village made corresponding preparations, and this preparation was obviously not what he liked.

Failure to complete an unexpected surprise attack and failure to achieve the imagined peace result probably failed to maximize the credit. Mr. Liu began to become irritable inside, and his face showed it involuntarily.

"Boss?" the adjutant asked hesitantly.

Mr. Liu waved his hand, and two riders left the team and headed straight for the haystack behind them, while Mr. Liu and others continued to move forward.

A quarter of an hour later, "Didn't you bring anyone back?"

The person who came back said with a look of guilt on his face, "The place they chose was next to a mountainous area. They saw us chasing them from a distance. Two people were running desperately into the mountains. We were afraid of an ambush and delayed the matter, so we did not continue to chase them."

A bad start.

Even the deputy felt a little unexpectedly uncomfortable. Why couldn't he catch up with the two farmers? Isn't it a matter of course?

After a period of silence, Mr. Liu smiled instead of getting angry, "Ignore them, speed up and go straight to Pingshan Village."

No matter how many tricks you try, in the face of absolute force, they can't defeat ten enemies with one force. He didn't believe that his two hundred elite soldiers could not defeat the civilians of a small mountain village.

=== Chapter === 190

The black smoke rising into the sky was getting closer and closer, making people's hearts beat faster and faster, and they could vaguely hear the gurgling flow of blood in their bodies.

At the entrance of Pingshan Village, the people who stayed behind were desperately building fortifications while they couldn't help but be distracted by looking at the sky in front of them - time was too urgent, and since they learned the news, they had been building walls and digging traps around the village almost non-stop day and night.

"Black smoke lit up in Liujiacun."

"Black smoke lit up in Manshantun."

"There's still about three miles to go!"

"Stop and hide."

Following this order, those who were still digging holes to bury sharp bamboos, pulling straw ropes to tie up horse ropes, and building mud bricks on earth walls... all stopped and used the surrounding wheat straws, rice straws, and beans with quick eyes and hands. Zhan waited to hide the trap he had just held, and then trotted around to hide it.

There was tension in the silence, and there was a hint of order in the chaos. After all, everyone who stayed knew what they needed to face.

In the end, Pingshan Village looked like a mess that had been evacuated in a panic, silent and scrawled. At first glance, it looks normal, but upon closer inspection, it is still vaguely abnormal. As for the abnormality, only those who are very familiar with it can see it.

So, Mr. Liu brought his people to Pingshan Village. The first thing he saw was this earthen wall that was half a person high. It was silent and the ground was messy. A village without a soul.

Everything looks like someone fleeing in a panic: there are half-cut bamboo poles with bamboo branches standing beside the wall, wheat straws that have not been collected are scattered on the roadside, pods are still drying on the ground on the road, and occasionally they have not yet been dried. The open lid of the wine jar for drying sauce...

Everything indicates that the people in this village, on a normal day of working, suddenly left in a panic and hurriedly, leaving behind unfinished farm work all over the ground.

The faces of the group of people who had come from a long way were very ugly. It was obvious that their target had escaped.

Could it be that they traveled thousands of miles and got nothing?

"Boss?" the deputy asked cautiously, returning empty-handed. Their losses were too great.

"Hmph!" Mr. Liu smiled softly, with disdain in his eyes and sullen words in his words, "From the first smoke report, we went straight to Pingshan Village, and it only took more than an hour. . In such a big village, there are old and young, even if they can fly, they can't fly far! What's more, they can't fly!"

"Such a simple trick, you just want to deceive me!"

Liu finally found the point to release his anger, which had been followed by the thick smoke all the way. "Search for me! Search for me all those who are hiding. I don't believe it." , no matter how secret the secret passage in the cellar is, it can still escape the fire. Except for Miss Li, no one cares about life or death. Once we get the secret recipe, we will be rich and wealthy when we go back."

As Mr. Liu finished speaking, the previously confused soldiers gradually revealed their original expressions, and their sluggish morale began to rise. Especially the imaginary violent venting and glory and wealth made people's blood boil.

"Come at me!"

Mr. Liu is worthy of being Mr. Ba, and his words easily captured the hearts of the people. At this moment, he was the vanguard, the first to charge into Pingshan Village - the timid villagers who were hiding had nothing to guard against. The surrounding messy earthen walls and the small road at the entrance were convenient for horseback riding.

The cavalry behind them followed up one after another, and they became majestic for a while. Nowadays, horses are more valuable than people. This time, General Liu brought all his confidants with him. Everyone approved the armor and there were dozens of cavalry.

These dozens of cavalry are more than enough to deal with a small Pingshan village. Especially this kind of armored cavalry, with the impact of the horses and the protection of the armor, they have a crushing advantage against infantry at a high position and against unarmed people. The villagers are cutting melons and vegetables.

General Liu's confidence came from this, and he defeated ten groups at once. He believed that there was absolutely no way Pingshan Village could resist his cavalry.

Even when he traveled with so many cavalry, it was not to deal with Pingshan Village, but Liu Ba was always afraid that he would encounter danger - he heard that the border near Dingcheng was not very peaceful, in case he encountered some not long-term When you see the aliens who are robbing you, it is easier to save your life by riding a horse.

Dozens of cavalrymen were flying with their horse hooves all the way. Bean stalks, pepper stalks, and wheat straw that had been dried on the dirt road were lifted up by the horses' hooves. Thin, indistinguishable powder was looming among these dry branches.

Gradually, the horses neighed and became restless, and the smell in the air made people feel uncomfortable.

What's wrong?

The horse under Commander Liu became more and more furious, and the confidence on his face was gradually replaced by doubt. It's a pity that it's too late. The advantage of cavalry is that it is fast. In this moment, all the cavalry have stepped into the intersection of Pingshan Village, followed closely by the infantry.

Moreover, because the road in Pingshan Village was narrow, and there were already fences or all kinds of debris and haystacks next to it, these soldiers were so full on this dirt road that they didn't even have a way to turn back.

For a moment, it was like a fish in a urn, and I could only move forward.

There is a trap!

Although Mr. Liu was a related person, he was a capable related person. In the flash of lightning, he immediately realized that he had underestimated the enemy and had fallen into a trap.

But at this moment, there was a loud shout in Pingshan Village, which had been calm just now, as if there was no one around.

"Throw!"

Many people suddenly appeared on the roof, their faces covered with cloth, holding cloth bags with unknown contents in their hands, and they threw them towards Mr. Liu and others.

There are hidden weapons. President Liu and others immediately raised their shields for protection.

However, they immediately breathed a sigh of relief. It turned out to be stupid people. The cloth bag was tied loosely and fell apart before it fell to the ground. It had no lethality.

Then, before the breath was fully released, reddish-brown powder was seen flying out from the cloth bag, and the air was immediately filled with a spicy and pungent smell. President Liu and others opened their eyes wide and prepared to face the hidden weapon. Suddenly their eyes hurt and they felt uncomfortable breathing.

Cough, cough, cough.

What felt more uncomfortable than people were the war horses. These well-trained war horses in the past were shaking their heads from side to side, raising their hooves high and neighing constantly. On this tight dirt road, the horses were about to get into chaos.

Mr. Liu used all his strength to strangle the reins, desperately controlled the horse, and shouted loudly, "Spread out. Spread out."

When he opened his mouth, more powder entered the air, causing his throat to hurt and he couldn't help coughing or crying.

It's paprika.

It turned out to be paprika.

What was thrown out was paprika, and what was buried under the bean stalks and wheat straw on the ground was paprika - so the more sensitive war horses felt uncomfortable from the beginning.

It's a pity that it was not discovered sooner.

Fortunately, there was still a chance. General Manager Liu glanced around and immediately decided on a breakout plan - these scattered haystacks, pots and jars, etc., could not stop the war horses at all. As long as they spread out and broke through the encirclement, waiting for the fire in the air There aren't that many paprika, so this is their chance.

However, at this moment, Liu Baozong heard the sound of bow and arrow breaking through the air. Urgent and fast, one listens to someone who is proficient in archery. Fortunately there were only a few arrows.

It seems that there is a person who is good at bows and arrows. As the leader of the team, Liu Biao always feels that he is in danger. The principle of catching the thief first and the king is applicable at all times.

However, Liu Ba is always a cautious person, and Liu Ba always wears full body armor.

However, the bow and arrow did not aim at any one of Mr. Liu, but directly hit a series of jars on the roadside. The force was so strong that several jars were broken into pieces.

Broken ceramics are not the farm sauce that Mr. Liu Ba and others thought they were. But it is clear and transparent wine, the wine is scattered everywhere, and the aroma of the wine is overflowing.

Why are there wine jars filled with wine instead of drying sauce on the roadside? Why shoot the wine jar?

Before Mr. Liu and others could figure this out, what was thrown out was no longer paprika, but a bright torch.

The torch fell to the ground, like a whooshing sound, and where the wine was filled, flames shot up into the sky.

Pingshan Village's pepper wine is very famous. It is divided into three series: burning fire, throat burning, and heart burning, which respectively correspond to the three tastes of the wine after entering the mouth, in the throat, and in the heart. The most expensive Burning Heart series is worth one tael of wine and one tael of silver in the capital.

It is said that this wine has a nice name, called flame wine, but ordinary people still think it is most vivid to call it pepper wine. Rich people like to call it a series name to show that they are drinking a high-end series.

No one had ever known that flaming wine would actually turn into raging flames!

The flames spread out, instantly igniting the dried rice straw, wheat straw, and bean poles all over the ground, and surrounded Mr. Liu Ba and his party.

The flames rising into the sky were the natural enemies of livestock. The smell of pepper became more and more pungent after burning, which made the war horses completely lose control.

In an instant, the surrounded horses turned back in panic, trampled in all directions, and neighed out of control. The cavalry on the horses were thrown off by the panicked horses, trampled on, and burned. The infantry behind them were also scattered by the out-of-control horses.

The cavalryman had no time to rejoice when a horse was lucky enough to break through the encirclement and step out of the ring of fire. Suddenly, the horse's hoof bent and fell straight down - there was actually a hidden shallow pit in front of it. The sharp dianthus at the bottom of the pit pierced the horse's hoof, and the horse was injured and lost. The hoof fell down with a crash, and even the cavalry on horseback were pierced by the sharp dianthus.

"Cut off the horse's legs."

In the chaos, there was a loud shout, and a young man from Pingshan Village, wearing a wet cloth on his face and wet cotton clothes on his body, jumped out from a hidden corner, with eyes that were red from stimulation, swinging a sharp woodcutter. , began to harvest the lives of these precious war horses.

The villagers of Pingshan Village, who usually take care of their livestock more important than themselves, now raised their swords without any hesitation - Xiaohan and the others said that only by completely suppressing the superiority of the cavalry would they have more chances to win. . No matter how precious the animal is, its own life and the lives of your family are not as important.

Liu Ba always felt that the tears he shed were tears of blood, and he didn't know whether they were from pain or anger.

He thought that this small mountain village was safe, so he charged forward. The war horse was so stimulated by the fire that it went crazy and threw him off. It was because of his excellent armor that he was lucky enough to save his life under the chaotic hooves. .

However, the severe pain from the impact at this moment, the blood overflowing from his throat, and the flames burning everywhere reminded him that if he continued like this, he would probably die here.

"Boss, you retreat first." A lucky cavalryman who was sitting behind reluctantly reined in his horse, turned the horse's head, and pulled his boss up, trying to break out from the way - as long as Once you get out of that intersection and out of this narrow encirclement, you can escape for your life.

The remaining dozen or so horses turned their heads one after another, and the crazy horses also relied on their last instincts to run towards the exit.

Seeing victory ahead, nothing can stop him.

=== Chapter === 191

Seeing that victory was in sight and they were about to break out of the fire encirclement, President Liu and others' eyes lit up.

In just a few quarters of an hour, they fell from the top of the mountain to the abyss, and now they finally have a glimmer of hope.

As long as you can escape and save your life, you will have plenty of opportunities to turn the tables and turn defeat into victory.

Soon, soon.

There are still two positions left.

One more position left!

Before he could even exhale his tense breath, the smile on his face quickly turned into panic: at this last moment, at the entrance, there were piles of bamboos leaning against the earthen walls on both sides, seemingly placed randomly. A common bamboo pole in a farmhouse suddenly moved.

The long bamboo pole, with its branches and leaves cut off, fell straight onto the road at the exit. The round shaft kept rolling on the flat dirt road, with nowhere to step.

So, the galloping war horses with red eyes stepped on the rolling bamboo poles one after another. The densely rolling bamboo poles could not bear the force at all...

The bamboo tripping rope was visible, and there was no time to dodge, and even the dodge could not be avoided. Both the man and the horse fell heavily to the ground. The huge body hit the ground with a loud noise, and the death cry of the war horse was like a funeral song.

The severe pain from his heart kept Mr. Liu awake for the last time. From the corner of his eye, he saw the two warriors cutting down the tethers on both sides of the earthen walls and pushing the bamboo poles onto the road. Finally, they understood that what seemed to be The randomly placed bamboo poles are carefully arranged, and the final exit is also a dead end.

"kill!"

With a shout, the hidden young men of Pingshan Village jumped out from everywhere, with their faces covered with wet cloths, wielding a woodcutter, and bravely threw themselves into the battlefield.

Thick smoke filled the air, flames puffed out, and the temperature rose steadily, making the blood of these farmers who only knew how to farm work seem to be on fire.

The air was filled with the choking smell of pepper. Even with a wet wipe on his face, it still made his eyes blood red and made him crazy with irritation.

Li Deyou wheeled a woodcutter, nimbly avoiding the obstacles scattered on the ground, and slashed the hand of a soldier who had broken his leg on the ground.

According to the teachings of the older generation of the tribe, young people do not need to stab the chest or chop the neck. There are many bones in these places. If you are not sure, the knife will get stuck easily and lose the initiative. The best thing is to cut the right wrist directly. The bones are small and easy to cut. Most people have basically no ability to fight back if their wrists are injured. This is the safest for them.

What is not said is that the method is not fatal and is easy for young people who have never seen blood to kill anyone.

Li De, who was young and had a nimble head and good vision, slashed down with his sharp woodcutter, and his broken arm was bleeding profusely. The soldier who tried to stand up screamed and wailed in pain. He instinctively tried to fight back, but he could no longer grasp his weapon. .

The broken arm was thrown up, and a few drops of blood splashed on Li Deyou's face.

The imaginary joy and enthusiasm appeared for a moment, and then became stunned again.

So young.

The soldier under the machete turned his head and wailed, his eyes were still those of a young man.

"Third brother."

Hearing a cry of pain in a daze, Li Deyou frowned subconsciously: Whose third brother is this? Whose son is this?

A moment's distraction on the battlefield can turn life and death upside down. Not far away, another soldier called his third brother, with hatred in his eyes, and stabbed Li Deyou quickly with a broadsword.

The cold light of the sword was colder than the light of the sword. What was colder than the light was the hatred in his eyes. Only then did Li Deyou react and hurriedly raised his sword to block.

However, he was a novice after all. Although he had trained with the clan, he could not help but lose some sense of control under the shock of his mind at this moment.

The difference between life and death is fatal.

Huge fear enveloped his heart, and Li Deyou felt his mind went blank and could not make any other reaction.

Seeing the broadsword coming straight towards the door, a sudden force hit him, knocking Li Deyou sideways, and a similar woodchopping knife came diagonally, blocking the oncoming broadsword. .

There was a heart-wrenching metal collision sound. After all, the woodcutter reacted hastily and fell down. The broadsword continued to move forward.

"father."

Li Deyou shouted out loudly after regaining his footing, and quickly raised his woodcutter to fight back.

But it was too late.

The moment the flames were ignited, Li De held his head and bent his knees, rolling to the ground like a lazy donkey, avoiding the fatal blow.

In front, the soldier holding a broadsword had his throat sealed by a butcher's knife that appeared from nowhere. The moment he fell, blood gurgled out.

Li Shengyi withdrew his sword and killed people like pigs, with perfect accuracy. He frowned and glanced at Li Deyou and his son before turning around and joining the battle again.

"Second brother."

The young soldier whose hand had been chopped off by Li Deyou earlier wailed and rushed over, trying to cover the other's bleeding throat with his only remaining hand.

There was a "click", the sound of the blade entering flesh, and the two brothers fell together.

Li Deyou's father took back the woodcutter, and a trace of forbearance finally flashed across his wrinkled face, but it quickly disappeared the moment he turned around and saw Li Deyou.

"Hold your knife!"

After seeing blood, I realized that this was a battlefield where lives were at stake, and I could hold the knife more steadily.

The fire is getting stronger, and flesh and blood are flying everywhere. Among the fighting people, there is the impact of metal weapons, the muffled sound of cutting into flesh and bones, the wailing of which side is unclear, the smell of blood getting stronger, and the smell of cooked meat after being burned by the fire. smell.

Crazy, disgusting.

…

After an unknown amount of time, the fire gradually extinguished and the madness gradually dissipated. The entrance to Pingshan Village had become a Shura field, with corpses scattered everywhere, and the Li clan members still struggling to hold on.

Li Deyou felt that his hands and feet were trembling with strength, but his heart was at a loss: Is it over? Did they win? Was the enemy defeated?

Many women ran out from the side. Some put out the fire, while others came straight towards them.

As a member of the women's medical team, Zhou Daya saw Li Deyou sitting aside exhausted, hesitation and struggle flashed in his eyes - at this moment, she wanted to find her relatives first.

Then, the pace finally stopped , "Save the one closest to you first."

Rough and trembling hands groped Li Deyou from head to bottom, and finally found a hand of blood on his abdomen.

"You silly kid, you don't scream when you're hurt." Zhou Daya scolded with heartache, turned around and shouted to the back, "Here's a stretcher, one of us is injured here."

Soon, two strong women rushed over carrying a wooden stretcher and worked together to carry Li Deyou away.

After seeing off Li Deyou, Zhou Daya continued to explore the crowd, his expression more anxious than before, his lips trembling slightly, "Dalang, old man, where are you?"

…

Pingshan Village Ancestral Hall.

The fire in the kitchen was shining, several stoves were boiling hot water non-stop, and a small makeshift stove was simmering bitter medicine for wounds.

In the lobby, several large candles as thick as a baby's wrist were burning, illuminating the slightly dim room with a bright yellow color.

The ancestor's memorial tablet was high up, and he looked silently at the wounded lying in the room.

Li Xiaohan held the scissors in his hand and quickly cut open Li Deyou's clothes, revealing a flesh-colored wound rolling around his abdomen. This position made people take a breath of air. Li Xiaohan lowered his head and observed carefully for a while. Fang Lizhi said calmly: "Fortunately, no internal organs were injured."

Use chopsticks boiled in boiling water to hold a cotton ball, soak it with alcohol, wipe the dirt around the wound, use a spoon to gently apply a green to black herbal paste to the wound, and say: "This medicine There is fresh panax notoginseng in it, which should stop the bleeding soon. If it doesn't stop, call us right away."

"Yeah." Li Deyou gently twitched the corner of his mouth and showed a pale smile, showing a hint of happiness and confusion that he had saved a small life.

As if to confirm this, Li Deyou glanced around and saw that the ancestral hall was full of wounded people who had been brought over. Everyone was gritting their teeth and enduring, and occasionally heard one or two moans leaking out of their teeth.

"Go ahead and get busy."

"Yes." Li Xiaohan was not polite, quickly packed up the portable medical kit he made, and said before leaving, "Someone will come over later to deliver allicin, you drink a bottle."

No matter what the disease is now, there is no serious doctor in Pingshan Village. The best medical skills are Li Xiaohan, a half-baked doctor who has learned some skills from Dr. Zhang, and the half-baked women who were taught by the half-baked Li Xiaohan.

Simply treat the injury and use all the best medicines available. Whether you survive in the end depends on destiny.

After Li Xiaohan left, Li Deyou closed his eyes slightly and frowned. When he woke up, he felt that the wound hurt terribly. This intense pain made people feel alive, happy and uncomfortable.

"Be patient, don't sleep yet." Li Deyou's father saw him next to him and warned him. Young people have little experience and cannot tell whether they have fainted or fallen asleep. If there is any unknown injury, it is likely to be gone after fainting. "Pain means living."

"I got it, Dad."

Li Xiaohan took two steps and happened to meet Li Shengyi walking in.

Li Xiaohan stared at the old man's blood-soaked left hand before he was about to speak. Li Shengyi had already waved his other hand and said, "I don't need you here. It's just a minor injury. You can go and take care of the others."

Li Xiaohan thought about the old man's age and was about to become a great-grandfather. He asked worriedly, "How about I take a look..."

"I've been killing pigs for half my life. I don't know where the life comes from. If I say it's okay, it's okay. You go and take care of the others who are seriously injured." Li Shengyi refused and just found a place to sit down. He glanced at the ancestral hall and picked out a young man who looked inexperienced. "Then... Li Xiaohua, come here and bandage it for me."

Women like them, Li Shi, have more or less learned from Li Xiaohan how to deal with common injuries, but if one has the best skills, it is Li Xiaohan who has no use for his injuries. If the injury hadn't been on his hand and it was inconvenient for him to have only one hand, he would have bandaged it himself.

Because Li Xiaohua was young, everyone didn't believe her, so they could only fight on the sidelines. Now Li Shengyi called her and came running in a hurry.

Li Hehua happened to be shouting from the other side, "Master, come here and help me take a look."

Li Xiaohan knew that Li Hehua, although his voice was trying to be calm at the moment, if he hadn't been anxious, he would never have called him like this. There was a struggle in his eyes, and Li Xiaohan finally compromised, "Then I'll leave first. If you need anything, you can call someone." ah."

"I know, I know, let's go, let's go." Li Shengyi chased people away, full of energy.

Li Xiaohan had no choice but to feel relieved and walked quickly towards Li Hehua.

In front of Li Hehua was a young man named Li Daniu. There was only a layer of skin hanging on his forearm. At this moment, his face was pale with pain, he was dripping with cold sweat, and he occasionally let out a low groan of pain.

When I saw Li Xiaohan coming, I tried to open my eyes with desire and prayer.

Li Xiaohan's face was calm and he immediately checked the injury, but his heart was very heavy: I was afraid that this hand could not be saved, and he was most afraid of bleeding or infection, and it was hard to say whether he would even survive by then.

At such a young age, Li Xiaohan deeply regretted that he did not know more about surgery.

Feeling anxious, Li Xiaohan didn't reveal anything. He looked calm and professional. He quickly cut off the clothes on his arms and tied them tightly with boiled cloth strips to avoid further bleeding. He ordered, "Lotus , put a piece of white cloth in his mouth."

Then he said to Li Daniu, "Be patient, I have to cut off the remaining skin and pick out the broken bones for you."

"Xiaohan, I...can I cure it?"

"It can be cured, don't worry, our clan has medicine, the best medicine! Previously, I knew a village chief Wu who also survived without an arm. His injuries were more serious than yours."

After thinking for a while, he continued, "It doesn't matter if you lose half of your hand. In our village, you don't have to worry about the future. There are many jobs suitable for you. The most important thing is to survive!"

Li Xiaohan's words gave Li Daniu a lot of confidence, and there was finally a little light in his eyes.

"Yes, yes." Li Daniu bit his lip and nodded in agreement, fearing that he would cry if he spoke again.

The conditions were very poor and the skills were not professional enough. Li Xiaohan recalled the previous treatment of Village Chief Wu by Dr. Renhetang, and tried his best to recall all the surgical knowledge he could recall while operating cautiously.

After half an hour, the treatment was finally finished and the bleeding finally stopped. Li Xiaohan's back was completely wet with layers of cold sweat.

Just like Li Xiaohan said, they have the best hemostatic drugs and the best antibiotics of this era.

"The bleeding has stopped. You can rest for a while. You can take medicine before going to bed later." Li Xiaohan comforted him, "Auntie, please look at Brother Daniu. If anything goes wrong, call us right away."

The prescription is an imitation of Renhetang's antipyretic and soothing prescription. Li Xinhe once, Village Chief Wu once, and Li Xiaohan also remembered it. It's probably almost usable, and I can't care whether it's completely symptomatic at the moment.

At this time, I really miss Dr. Zhang who went out with the army.

…

The sun is gradually setting in the west, and darkness comes earlier in autumn. In the lobby, a brighter brazier and three candles were lit, illuminating the night like day.

All the wounded have been examined and treated for a round. Those with minor injuries were given medicine and went home to rest, while those with serious injuries and unable to move were gathered in the wing for unified care.

"Master, please eat some food first." Li Hehua whispered.

"It's okay, I'm not hungry." It seems like I'm tense and overtired, but I don't feel hungry anymore, especially now that my mind is full of all kinds of wounds, and I don't even have the slightest appetite. "Statistical data, come out." Yet?"

"Well, it's out." Li Hehua handed over a notebook full of words written in charcoal, "The patriarch and the others are in the clan science class and let you finish your work."

Li Xiaohan took it and flipped through it, frowning slightly, and then closed it after a moment, "I'm over. You've worked hard tonight, and you have to stay up late to watch. Call me if you have anything."

"Yeah." Li Hehua responded, watching Li Xiaohan's thin back walking into the darkness.

I want to say that I am not working hard, but you have been working hard during this period, but you just can't say it.

Even if he says it, he will probably deny it and say that life is good if it is not hard.

Also, if you can live, it doesn't matter if you work hard.

In the thick darkness, there seemed to be light.

=== Chapter === 192

Darkness gradually fell.

In the Li clan's school, the brazier in the center lit up with blazing flames, and the four corners were lit with rosin torches. The bright and warm flame seemed to give courage and strength to those who escaped from the gap between life and death.

Seeing Li Xiaohan come in, the people of Pingshan Village sitting in a group around the brazier all said, "Xiaohan is here, come on, sit down."

Those who can attend tonight's gathering are all important figures in Pingshan Village, such as Li Shengyi, who leads the village guard team, and the highly respected third uncle.

The seat reserved for Li Xiaohan was next to the clan leader. When Li Xiaohan sat down, the silence was broken.

"Let's talk about today's situation, Xiaohan, you come first." The clan leader sitting above said.

It can be seen with the naked eye that they defeated the enemy today, but many tribesmen were also injured. Now everyone is most concerned about the condition of the wounded.

Li Xiaohan knew what everyone was thinking. He coughed lightly, as if he wanted to cough out the dryness, heavyness, and fatigue in his throat, and then he said, "Today's battle, a total of 180 men from our clan will fight. A total of three people died, namely Li Mutou, Li Fugui, and Li Guangming, five were seriously injured and were in danger of life, twenty-eight needed to recuperate, and the rest had varying degrees of minor injuries, but did not affect daily activities."

After talking about life and death, the rest is easy to say, "There is enough leftover herbs, allicin, alcohol, Panax notoginseng, and white gauze, and there is no need to replenish it yet."

When they heard that there were three dead, everyone around them looked solemn, and then five were seriously injured, and everyone was not relaxed. But later, when the number of minor injuries was revealed, everyone felt a sense of disbelief: that's all? no yet?

The clan members were killed and injured, which was sad, but the number of casualties was much better than originally expected.

Everyone understood that they were facing specially trained soldiers equipped with armor and weapons. Before going into battle, everyone was even prepared to fight for their lives.

They even vaguely understand in their hearts that their lives may not necessarily win their lives.

Later, with Li Xiaohan's suggestion and the help of paprika and alcohol, everyone was unsure. They just hoped that the clan's vitality would not be lost too much.

Now with this result, for a moment, I don't know whether to be happy or sad.

What broke the silence was Li Shengyi's voice. Although Li Shengyi, who had bandages on his hands, was older, his overall fighting ability was much higher than that of other people in the clan, so this time he was the captain of the clan's guard team. At this moment, he continued, "Continuing to manage the battlefield, we captured a total of eighteen war horses; captured eighty-three wounded people, all of whom had surrendered their armor and tied them up in the east room; killed sixty-seven people, and first arrived at the east end of the village. Leave it alone."

As soon as this data came out, the faces of the calm third uncle, the clan leader and others also showed strange expressions: The number of casualties is too different!

Although everyone knew they had won, the naked data comparison at this moment made people unable to believe how huge the victory was.

"Shengyi, is that correct?" someone asked.

"The calculation is correct. I counted it myself later." Li Shengyi affirmed.

After the words fell, everyone's eyes lit up one after another, and the previous silence instantly became brighter and higher - the casualties of the tribesmen are sad, but if the casualties are meaningful, killing the enemy and protecting If you lose your home, the casualties become valuable.

Li Shengyi explained, "Most of the war horses were injured or had their legs cut off when they were attacked by fire. Some of them escaped from the fire by luck, or they were injured because they were fascinated by pepper and went crazy. So these war horses , most of them are useless, and if they can't survive, they can only be killed and eaten for meat."

There was pity in Li Shengyi's words. A good horse is so rare. They usually have no way to buy it even if they have money, but now they are watching so many good horses being destroyed in front of them.

But think about it, if these war horses hadn't been messed up first, they wouldn't have been able to win easily.

"Most of the people who died were injured by horses falling, being trampled, or being burned by fire in the chaos. About 30% of the people who were slashed by our people accounted for about 30%." Li Shengyi continued. Explained, "The 30% are easily injured by us because they are so fascinated by the smell of smoked pepper that they can't open their eyes or have suffered minor injuries."

Li Shengyi explained this, and everyone figured it out. In fact, they were all hiding in the dark and watching. This combination of pepper powder and alcohol was unexpectedly powerful.

What Li Xiaohan said at the time was an idea, but now the effect is so good that the clan leader couldn't help but ask, "How much alcohol does our clan have?"

"It takes ten jars of wine to make one jar of alcohol that can start a fire. We don't have much alcohol stock in our clan. There are only sixteen jars in total. Eight jars were used for the fire this time. We have to leave some to treat the wound so that we can burn it again. Not much." Li Xiaohan said, shaking his head gently.

Without industrial alcohol, simply refining alcohol that is so pure that it is flammable from grain wine would be a huge loss. Due to the shortage of food, their clan did not have much alcohol in stock.

"What a pity, what a pity." Someone couldn't help but whisper.

Even though they understand that the essence of this wine is really rare, no matter how expensive the wine is, life is not as valuable as gold. Everyone here feels a huge loss.

"There are also sporadic enemies who escaped today. They already know the use of alcohol. They must take precautions next time. It will be difficult to achieve such a good effect again." Li Shengyi continued.

What Li Shengyi said is right. Today's main focus is surprise. If the enemy is prepared, he will definitely not be able to achieve such good results. Everyone had to put down this idea first.

"Let's put aside the alcohol issue for now and let's discuss what to do with the captured people?" the clan leader continued.

It's easy for horses, but it's more complicated for people to deal with.

Li Xiaohan thought for a while and reminded, "The corpse cannot continue to be left like this. It is prone to plague and must be buried."

Even this problem is embarrassing - we still don't know what will happen tomorrow. If there is another wave of enemies, we can't take care of the living, so how can we take care of the dead.

After thinking about it, everyone thought of this possibility. After thinking for a moment, the patriarch said, "Dig a hole and bury it. Don't bury it in the mountains behind our house, bury it as far away as possible."

As for when that time will be, who knows, let's talk about it then.

"The injured ones..." Patriarch Li hesitated. The living people were more embarrassing than the dead.

It's absolutely impossible to release them; it's impossible to raise them either - it's a waste of food, and their food was all grown with so much hard work; if you kill them, it's eighty-three lives.

For a moment, everyone was in a dilemma. Several people raised their heads and looked angrily to say something. Their lips moved, but the words of killing were not uttered after all. Those who can sit here are not impulsive young people. Yes, it is easy to say "kill", but when it comes to doing it, no one wants to be this person.

The executioner needs inhuman courage.

"It's better... treat them casually first, let them work non-stop for those who can move, dig traps and build walls and let them do whatever they want; those with limited mobility, just feed them one coarse steamed bun a day, as long as they don't starve to death. Let's talk about it then." Li Xiaohan suggested.

As for when the time comes, I hope there will be a way for the car to reach the mountain.

"The killing of prisoners is unknown, I agree." The third uncle's old voice said.

The clan leader sighed and nodded in agreement, "Does anyone object?"

Everyone looked at each other, and no one expressed any objection.

"Since no one objects, that's it. It just so happens that our wall needs to be built higher and thicker, and the traps outside the wall need to be dug again."

He has taken off his armor, been injured, and hasn't eaten enough. He probably doesn't have much strength to resist, so he should just treat him as a slave.

Thinking about it, the clan leader was afraid that Li Xiaohan would be soft-hearted, so he warned: "Don't give them alcohol, and don't give them Panax notoginseng."

Alcohol and Panax notoginseng are very expensive, and there is not much in stock. Allicin... Forget about allicin. After all, the raw material is garlic, so there is no shortage.

"Yeah." Li Xiaohan responded. She naturally understands the concerns of the clan leader. Alcohol Panax notoginseng is scarce, so she naturally has to keep it for the clan leader's use.

At this point, today's affairs are generally summarized, and there are still arrangements for the future.

"Continue to send people to guard the night tonight, and take a rest first." The clan leader stood up and said, "Tomorrow we will continue to build the city wall and dig traps."

"As for Xinhe, how about..." Someone mentioned Li Xinhe who was hiding in the mountains with his tribe.

The patriarch was silent for a moment, "There is no need to inform them. It is safest for them if we don't contact each other right now. Let them hide in the mountains first, and they will toss people back and forth."

This arrangement is the safest. Even if everyone misses their relatives in the mountains, they will not talk anymore.

The future is still undecided, tomorrow is unpredictable, tomorrow's tomorrow, tomorrow's tomorrow, no one can imagine what will come.

When is the day of peaceful reunion?

Perhaps only when the prince comes back can they regain peace in the city.

The group of people put out the brazier, picked up torches, and went around.

Except for a few shadows in the house, everything gradually returned to darkness and tranquility. However, in the middle of the night, I don't know how many people tossed and turned all night, and I don't know how many people woke up from their dreams.

Early the next morning, the sky was still bright and Pingshan Village had already woken up.

In the ancestral hall, the women who got up early have prepared a hearty breakfast. According to Li Xiaohan's suggestion, in the wartime state, all efforts should be concentrated on doing big things, so now everyone has a big pot of rice, not every family It took a lot of time and effort to cook it myself.

The rice is freshly cooked dry rice, which is solid and filling. In the past, during the summer and autumn harvests, the head of the stove was willing to cook the filling rice with great effort. Now it is served in a big basin. Come up and eat as much or as little as you want;

Finger-thick bacon as big as the palm of your hand, stir-fried with fresh vegetables, green and oily, which will whet your appetite;

There was also the horse meat that was slowly stewed in a large pot last night. After simmering all night, the meat was rotten and the bones were soft. Although the taste was slightly sour, everyone ate it happily.

After knowing the danger, Li Xiaohan proposed to build this big canteen to prevent everyone from having diarrhea due to too much oil and water. Now everyone is used to eating like this - what can we save at this time? Eat full Food is enough to save your life.

Compared to everyone in Pingshan Village, the treatment of the prisoners was not that good. The armor and clothes on his body had long been stripped off, even the copper hairpin on his head had been touched off, and he put on the tattered shirt and shorts that the villagers had discarded. Goosebumps broke out all over his body in the cold autumn morning, and then After drinking half a bowl of watery grain porridge, everyone who could move was kicked out to work.

Contrary to such harsh food and treatment, most of their wounds were covered with wound medicine. Although they could tell at a glance that they were common ordinary herbs, the bleeding gradually stopped.

What's more, several people who had a fever last night actually drank allicin.

That was the magic drug allicin that was well-known in the capital. In the past, little soldiers like them didn't dare to hope that they could use it.

Everyone wants to live. After looking at it, it seems that the Li family in Pingshan Village don't want their lives for the time being, and they are even trying to save their lives. Let the gruel be gruel, and just do the work. Live.

As a result, these dozens of active prisoners were scattered everywhere. Under the threat of people from Pingshan Village chopping wood, they built walls, dug traps, and sharpened bamboo. Don't be lazy. If you move a little slowly, you will be whipped with a thin bamboo branch immediately.

Forget it, it's all for the sake of living, endure it.

In this way, in the rush and slow rush, the wall that was damaged yesterday was quickly repaired, and the traps that had been stepped on were cleaned and arranged... However, the enemy that the villagers had been worried about did not come again.

There was no one around, and it was so calm that people couldn't believe it.

"What's happening here?"

"Who knows what's going on? The later the better, the more fully prepared we will be. It's best not to come in the future."

"That's true."

What he didn't say was that he was afraid that it would take time for the army to assemble and it would be late.

However, no one came the next day, and no one came the third day...

The people of Pingshan Village commanded the prisoners, the bodies had been buried, and a trench was dug outside the wall. Pingshan Village was like a turtle huddled in its shell.

As for the enemy, no one knows what is going on. The clan has discussed this matter over and over again, held several meetings, and imagined more than a dozen possibilities. The most likely one is - -The imperial army has already begun to attack the city, and is too lazy to spare manpower to attack Pingshan Village.

This guess made many people quietly breathe a sigh of relief.

If the sky falls, there are tall men holding it up. There are elite soldiers on the high walls in the city. There is a lady and a prince, so let them go up.

"No matter what, we should do a good job." The clan leader frowned and said, "Dig the trench outside the wall a little deeper and a little wider."

"yes!"

On the fourth day, in the morning, the sun shines brightly.

Everyone was still digging trenches and building walls while looking ahead vigilantly, fearing that a large group of people might suddenly come from the front.

"Look, is there someone coming from the front?"

Suddenly, a villager with good eyes said softly.

Facing the sun, I couldn't see clearly, but there were a few dark figures coming out of the corner.

"What? Coming? Quick, quick, hide."

There was a moment of panic, as if the bad news they had been waiting for for a long time finally came, and everyone's heart beat violently.

However, there are also calm people who scan ahead to confirm before running.

This scan will sweep out the problem.

"Those people in front don't look like soldiers!"

"Huh? Who else is there?"

Nowadays, no one in the villages around Pingshan Village knows that Pingshan Village is very dangerous. Pingshan Village has no time to pay attention to anyone. None of the relatives come here. Is it possible that there are still people coming to visit?

"Really doesn't look like a soldier."

People in twos and threes echoed, although they couldn't see clearly, the four people who came seemed to be short in stature, and two of them were short, like children.

More importantly, no one came out from behind.

The figures gradually came closer and became clearer and clearer.

"It seems that Li Chunxi is the eldest sister of Zhou Daya's family!"

"Didn't his eldest sister marry into Liujia Village? Why did she come back at this time?"

Liujiacun is a large village near Fucheng. Because it is close to Fucheng, it is convenient to sell grains, vegetables and so on. You can also make money by setting up a shed to sell food and tea. In the early years, before Pingshan Village was not developed, it was a good marriage.

After recognizing that she was a married woman, although the people of Pingshan Village were confused, they were also relieved. The clever person has already gone back to report to the clan leader, and has also asked Zhou Daya to come out to identify him - Li Chunxi injured his leg last time, and now he can only lie down at home.

After a while, Zhou Daya rushed out and recognized his daughter from afar.

"Sister, why are you back? In-laws, you are here too."

At this time, everyone saw clearly that Sister Li did not come back alone. She brought her mother-in-law, two children next to her, and actually held a baby in her arms.

The whole group of people, young and old, is ready.

Everything is extremely abnormal. It's not like visiting relatives, it's like the whole family is coming to join us.

At this time, unless they reach a desperate situation, who will come to seek refuge in the crumbling Pingshan Village? ?

=== Chapter === 193

"Sister, why are you here?" Zhou Daya quickly stepped forward and held Li's hand tightly, her words full of uneasiness.

Having lived for most of her life, she certainly understands the current situation and it is not a good thing to drag her family back to her parents' home. It's just human beings who still hold on to a glimmer of hope and fantasy until the end.

"Mother, mother." Sister Li seemed to have found support, and finally had an outlet for her congested emotions. Tears rolled down her face, "The imperial court sent people to recruit troops and food. My father-in-law and my brother-in-law were forcibly taken away, as well as those at home. All the food was taken away. Mom, Xiaobao was so frightened that he started to burn up. I really... really have no choice. Mom, please help me."

Zhou Daya was stunned. She naturally knew the situation at her daughter's home.

Sister Li married Liu Ping from Liujiacun. Liu Ping is the eldest son, with elderly parents above him, a younger brother Liu An and a younger sister Liu Kang.

Although Liu Ping is the eldest son, he actually had two older brothers who died in infancy. Therefore, Liu's father and Liu's mother were quite old before they finally stopped the three Liu Ping siblings. When Sister Li got married, Liu's father was old and Liu Ping was already the head of the family.

At the beginning, Zhou Daya married Li Damei because she thought Liu Ping could do the job.

Unfortunately, the last time King Ding called for military service, Liu's father was too old, and Liu An had not yet matured, so Liu Ping could only serve in the army.

At that time, Zhou Daya felt as if her heart was soaked in bitter water, and she only wished she had not married Sister Li a few years later. It's a pity that little people like them can predict the future. There is no way but fate.

Fortunately, Sister Li had already given birth to a son and a daughter at that time. She raised her children well and hoped that Liu Ping would return safely and that the family could survive by supporting each other.

Today, there is no news about Liu Pingshang, but Liu's father and Liu An were forcibly recruited by the imperial court. There are only a few old, young, women, and children left in this family. They have no food and no labor. Her eldest sister is dragging this family with them. How can they survive in troubled times.

"Sister." Zhou Daya cried, but immediately wiped away her tears and said with strength, "It's okay, mother is here, mother is here. Quickly, take a look at mother, what's wrong with Xiaobao? Fever? How long has it been?"

Xiaobao is Sister Li's youngest son, who is only over half a year old.

His rough hands gently touched the delicate forehead of the baby in his arms, feeling hot, "Why is it so hot?"

"It has been burning all night. The people from the court came in the evening to take people and food away. It was very chaotic at that time. Xiaobao was frightened and started burning at night. It was dark and I was afraid of wild beasts, so I didn't dare to come over until dawn. ." Sister Li choked up and said.

She took Xiaobao away and did not dare to leave her three-year-old daughter at home. She could only ask her sister-in-law to take her daughter away with her. The mother-in-law was greatly stimulated yesterday, and it seemed that she couldn't hold it any longer. Sister Li had no choice but to shamelessly bring her mother-in-law and the whole family to join her mother's family.

"It's okay, it's okay. We're home. Mom will find a way for you. I'll go find the clan leader to get some medicine." Zhou Daya gently took the baby over and comforted her.

This was what Sister Li was waiting for, and her face that had been tense and anxious finally relaxed a little.

She is close to her mother's family and knows that her mother has learned the art of understanding herbal medicines, even her second sister and sister-in-law have not left behind. Earlier, her mother had vaguely revealed that members of the clan could receive allicin for free based on their contribution.

It's not that I don't envy her. Her surname is Li, but she is already a married woman and has no such fate.

Now it seems that she still has the reputation of being named Li.

Zhou Daya picked up her grandson and was about to walk to the village. When she turned around, she saw that Patriarch Li and Li Xiaohan were already behind her. After waiting for a few days, no enemies came. It was a rare outsider. Patriarch Li and others No matter how busy you are, come and take a look.

"Clan leader..."

Zhou Daya suddenly stopped walking, and then remembered that today is different from the past: now is the time when the clan is not peaceful, how can we bring outsiders in at will. The old, young, women, and children of the Li family have all gone up to the mountain to hide, just to avoid being held back. However, her daughter's family, old, young, women, and children, has taken over.

"Clan leader, clan leader, eldest sister, they won't delay things. They eat less..." Zhou Daya explained hurriedly. Without the consent of the clan leader, Li Damei and her party would not be able to come in today.

Sister Li nodded wildly. Before she got married, she only felt that the patriarch was very majestic and never dared to look at the patriarch. Now she mustered up the courage to speak with difficulty, "The patriarch..."

But he didn't know what to say. In desperation, he just pulled his daughter and sister-in-law to kneel down.

Patriarch Li avoided, "Come first."

"Hey, patriarch." Zhou Daya immediately replied, and quickly pulled his daughter up to follow her closely. Seeing the dull and confused look on Mother Liu's face, she felt helpless: Although her biological mother was older than herself, she used to be a smart person, but now she looked more than ten years older than before. The most important thing was that she looked similar. Lost his life and looked like a wooden man. Think about it, she lost her two sons in her early years, and now, as she approaches old age, her wife and her only two remaining sons have been drafted into the army. My mother-in-law's life is really more miserable than Coptidis Coptidis.

"Kang'er, go and hold your mother." Thinking of this, Zhou Daya warned her.

Li Xiaohua's sister-in-law Liu Kang, also a little girl in her early ten years, raised her head and glanced at Zhou Daya timidly, nodded and took Liu's mother's hand.

Liu Mumu's dull eyes moved slightly, and finally she became a little angry.

A group of people followed Chief Li, but they did not go straight to the village entrance. Instead, they went around and around in circles. Nowadays, the outside of the Li family's village is covered with traps and walls. The village entrance gate is the most important thing, not... People from Pingshan Village cannot enter at all.

Sister Li followed, and became more and more frightened as she walked. Liu Ping had been drafted into the army. Her father-in-law said a few days ago that her parents' family was not peaceful, and the village asked her not to return to her parents' home. Now seeing how defensive her mother's family is, it's beyond Sister Li's imagination.

With such tight security, they won't be driven away soon, right? Sister Li was really worried. What should they do if they are driven away?

Sister Li didn't dare to think deeply. There were already enough difficulties in front of her now, and she couldn't think of the future.

"You said that the imperial court came to recruit troops and took away your father-in-law and brother-in-law?"

Sister Li was so lost in her thoughts that she didn't realize for a moment whether Patriarch Li was talking to her or whether Zhou Daya bumped into her before she realized it. She quickly replied, "Yes, that's right."

I don't understand why the patriarch is asking these questions. Could it be that he suspects that she is telling lies? She didn't.

Zhou Daya was still able to guess what Patriarch Li was thinking, and replied on behalf of Li Damei, "Patriarch, my eldest sister's husband has gone to serve in the military, and her brother-in-law has not yet become a man, so the in-laws Although my father-in-law has not reached the age of fifty-six, he is already old, and there is no point in conscripting the old and the young."

Patriarch Li and Li Xiaohan, who were walking in front, looked at each other with heavy eyes: No, it is still useful. When attacking a city, there is a cruel but useful method, using defensive methods. A wave of people in the city first consumes a wave of feather arrows and military morale.

This kind of conscription is destined to waste human lives with no return.

The two did not answer Zhou Daya's doubts. Chief Li continued to ask, "The food was also confiscated? All of it?"

Sister Li came back to her senses and knew that Patriarch Li was aware of the situation and did not dare to hide anything. She quickly replied, "Yes, they have all been taken away. All the food for the people in our village has been taken away."

Thinking of this, Sister Li's voice was obviously filled with panic. At that time, a group of officers and soldiers broke in to pull people to get food. Their village chief just explained that they had already handed over food and served in the military, but who knew that they were... He whipped him hard and said, "The officers and soldiers said that all the food we handed over in the past was given to the rebels. This time the food conscription is for the imperial court."

No one dared to resist, and those who resisted were executed on the spot.

But without food, what will happen in the future?

Sister Li had to force herself to calm down, and thought for a while, fearing that Chief Li would drive them away, she said cautiously, "Earlier, our village chief reminded us that the world is in chaos and we need to separate the grain storage. I still have two hidden places in my house. He has not been found. When Xiaobao is well, I will go home and bring the food."

Patriarch Li didn't reply to Sister Li's words. He didn't care about the small amount of food in Sister Li's family. There were only four words in his mind: expropriation and expropriation!

He has been the leader of the clan and village for so many years, and he has never seen such conscription of troops and food. This is not about forcing people to death!

Thinking of this, the clan leader's face became particularly bad. First of all, Liujiacun, and then Wujiacun, Zhaojiacun, Zhangjiacun...the Li clan would not be able to escape.

"Xiaohan, come with me, our clan has to hold a meeting." For such important information, the clan members must be notified quickly and be prepared.

Unexpectedly, Li Xiaohan said, "Clan leader, I'll go there in a moment. I'll see how Xiaobao is doing first."

Patriarch Li turned his head and looked at the swaddled baby, "Okay, if you like it, come over quickly. We're still in the lecture hall."

The ancestral hall with a good environment was used to house the wounded. Nowadays, several clan meetings are held in the lecture hall.

"Yes." Li Xiaohan responded. She knew what Chief Li was worried about, and it was indeed necessary for the clan to hold a meeting to discuss it.

After receiving Li Xiaohan's answer, Patriarch Li hurried towards the lecture hall and left first.

The remaining half-conscious Zhou Daya, Li Sister and others, as well as the silent Li Xiaohan, went to Zhou Daya's home.

When we went to Zhou Daya's house, there was only one injured person at home, Li Chunxi, who was injured and had difficulty moving. Zhou Daya took the person to the wing.

First, he gently untied the swaddling clothes wrapped around the baby, and then touched his forehead and behind his ears.

The fever was so hot that the little baby's face was already red, his brows were furrowed and he was moaning in discomfort. He didn't know whether he fell asleep or was confused by the fever.

Li Xiaohan and Zhou Daya, who knew a little about pharmacology, looked solemn. For such a small baby, they had no idea which medicine could be used, nor how much medicine to use.

After all, they are not professional doctors.

"Mom." Sister Li couldn't help but speak first.

"Xiaohan, can you use alcohol?" During the training, they were trained on alcohol wiping and cooling, but that was for adults.

"It's too young to use alcohol to cool down." Li Xiaohan affirmed.

Children's colds and fevers are a common topic for colleagues with children in the office. Li Xiaohan has heard a little bit about it. After all, they grow Chinese medicinal materials, and they know a lot about medical things: children are too young, alcohol is It will be absorbed by the skin, affect the liver, and may be life-threatening.

"What about allicin?" Zhou Daya asked quickly.

"...It's not symptomatic." Li Xiaohan shook his head under the expectant gazes of the two people and explained with difficulty, "Allicin is a broad-spectrum antibiotic that can have a bactericidal effect on most bacteria in infections. . To put it simply, it is only useful when you are injured, have dirty things on the wound, or eat dirty things."

Although they didn't understand much, Zhou Daya and her daughter also understood that the baby was not injured, he was frightened, so it was different.

Sister Li knew Li Xiaohan. This clan girl was like a fairy figure born from the smoke from the clan's ancestral graves. There was no need to lie to her. Just because there was no need to lie to her, he told the truth.

She came here for alcohol and allicin, but now she says alcohol and allicin cannot save her life.

"Xiaobao..." Sister Li hugged the baby tightly, bowed her waist, and cried softly.

"Sister, don't worry, I'll call you and bring Xiaobao's soul back. Ah, don't cry." As a woman with rich life experience, Zhou Daya understands some traditional elders. Method.

"Mom, I've screamed, I've screamed last night." Sister Li couldn't straighten up at all, "I've also screamed with the blind woman in our village."

The blind woman is a goddess in Liujia Village. She is half blind. She is quite famous in the neighborhood, and Zhou Daya has also heard of it.

I have begged the gods and doctors, but there is nothing I can do.

Sister Li hugged her son and cried bitterly. Sister Li's eldest daughter was also frightened and cried. The little girl, who was more than three years old, cried and called her mother.

"Xiaohan, Xiaohan, you are so smart and know so much. Please help our eldest sister think about it and think about what we can do. Auntie, please, I'm sorry."

"aunt…"

Li Xiaohan felt that his voice was weak and difficult.

A huge pain of being manipulated by fate filled the entire chest, and as a person, each of them was like a piece of paper that was ravaged by the world at will.

This fucking world!

"Let me think about it, let me think about it."

=== Chapter === 194

"Come on, eldest sister, eat your breakfast first, and then drink the Tongcao and Wangbuliuxing soup." Zhou Da came in carefully carrying a bowl of soup, "You Only after drinking it can I have milk to feed the baby. Xiaohan said that breast milk contains immune globulin {2}, which can help the baby get through this. The baby can't drink water now, so it is good to drink more milk. ."

Sister Li put the wet towel in her hand into the hot water basin and took the food and soup - there was a lot of meat. Sister Li was stunned for a moment, but she did not say any words of refusal after all. At this time, she needs to eat better in order to have milk.

Zhou Daya took over and twisted a hot towel in the basin, and gently wiped the baby's neck, armpits and thighs and groin {3}, "I touched it, and Xiaobao seemed to be... It's not that burning anymore. It's probably good to have some moisture here, it's not dry and burning, and it's not that hot to the touch."

"Yes." Sister Li responded in a low voice, the feeling of panic in her voice finally diminished a little, but the fever had not gone away, and she couldn't let go after all.

Zhou Daya continued, "Don't worry, if it really doesn't work, we have one last way. Then you drink the soothing and antipyretic medicine, and then feed Xiaobao {4}. I'll grab all the medicine. , ready."

There is a way to know everything, so that the mother and daughter can feel at ease.

As for what Li Xiaohan said, the soothing and antipyretic prescriptions in his clan are for adults. Even if they are transferred from breast milk, they may not be suitable for children. There are certain risks, etc. Li Da Mei and Zhou Da Ya both ignored it.

In the past, when they only looked up to the wandering doctors, they had never heard of being so particular. The medicine for children is the medicine for adults. Reduce the dosage and then reduce the dosage.

Besides, when you are really at a dead end, it's good to have a way to do it, and you don't care about the risks.

"You should live at home with peace of mind. The clan leader and Xiaohan are both kind-hearted people and will not drive you away." Zhou Daya said, thinking about the prospect of recruiting food and soldiers. Unknown and worried, Zhou Da Ya could not help but say, "If something happens, there are also the clan leader and Xiaohan. They will tell us what to do."

Yes, Xiaohan is so smart and capable, and the clan leader never makes mistakes, just listen to them.

Thinking of this, Zhou Da Ya felt that the haze in his heart was lightened.

Patriarch Li and Li Xiaohan, who had high hopes from Zhou Daya, were not so relaxed.

At the school of the Li family, everyone was sitting around.

Li Xiaohan came last, and as soon as she sat down, the voices of people talking quietly to each other gradually stopped.

"I think everyone knows about Li Chunxi's sister Li's return. If the imperial court wants to recruit troops and food, it will definitely not only recruit the Liu family's village. Everyone, please tell me. , any ideas."

"What do you think? The imperial court is recruiting troops and food like this, leaving no way for people to survive. Isn't this forcing people to rebel?" Immediately, an anxious person answered.

"Don't say that." The older man scolded him quickly. Is that what ordinary people like them should say? Do you want to die?

"I'm telling the truth. Now that we are in Dingcheng, under the rule of King Ding, we have already been treated as traitors." The person who was told was not convinced, and his words were filled with three parts grievance and seven parts anger, " We have farmed and paid taxes honestly, kept to ourselves, and have never done anything illegal or criminal. Now that we are being treated like this, we can't even say a few words."

For a moment, the whole room was silent, and everyone was speechless: Yes, they are hardworking little people, but why can't they survive?

"After all, it's not the time for the late Emperor to be here." The eldest third uncle sighed, "Let's see what we do now, shall we?"

"What can we do? If we have to force people to death, we can still stretch our necks and wait for death. It's nothing more than doing it."

In fact, they've already done it. Although the battle a few days ago was tragic, they won, which gave everyone great courage and hope.

"Yes, fuck them!"

"Fuck them!"

For a time, the crowd was full of emotions and high momentum.

"Be quiet." Patriarch Li frowned and raised his hand to suppress it. "We certainly can't act recklessly, but we can't be too high-profile. After all, this is the imperial court."

It means to be quiet, be a hard nail or a hob, and not take the initiative to cause trouble, but it is not easy to deal with.

"I'm calling everyone here today because there's one more thing. The imperial court's recruitment of troops and grain will soon come to other villages. Now that we have Sister Li's family, if there are other married women who come back to borrow grain, Medicine, what should our clan do?"

"You're talking about borrowing food and medicine, that's definitely not..." There is a person whose mouth is faster than his brain, and he immediately refuses to say anything. Those are life-saving food and medicine. But before he finished speaking, his mind had already turned around.

"Er Shun, you don't have a daughter, but you have two aunts who are married."

The man who was called Ershun lowered his head and moved his lips without saying anything. His aunt was a generation behind him, so the relationship was not very deep, but his father was the eldest son and was hiding in the mountains. If he came back, he would know who she was. If the aunt refuses the door, she will definitely feel guilty.

"Besides, Er Shun, your father-in-law's family is not far away."

Ershun scratched his head irritably. His father-in-law's family was not far away. In the past, the mother-in-law would walk back and forth with her children from time to time, and they were very close to each other.

Such a close relative is really a relative. If someone comes to ask for help if they can't survive, how can they refuse?

For a while, no one spoke. There were only a few married women in the family, and a few married daughters-in-law. Now they have taken root in this land, and the relationship between relatives has been cut off and chaotic. .

But today is different from the past. The food and medicinal materials in their clan cannot support so many people.

Besides, the married daughter-in-law is a relative, the married aunt and her family are not relatives, the married daughter-in-law is a family, and the brother-in-law and brother-in-law's family are separated by who knows how many layers. The young, old, women and children of the Li family are all hiding in the mountains. It makes no sense that their own blood relatives are hiding and scared, but they are working hard for outsiders.

To borrow or not to borrow? This is more embarrassing than fighting an enemy with a real sword or a real gun. After all, a wood chopper can chop at the enemy but not at relatives.

After a long time, the third uncle said in a deep voice: "As soon as the incident in Liujia Village comes out, other villages must have received the news soon. Those who should store food should store food, and those who should hide should hide well. There are many. We have many mountains and dense forests. If the imperial court comes to recruit troops, we should hide in the mountains for a while. After this time, we will be fine. Snakes have their own paths, rats have their own paths. It will be more difficult than now. Everyone has survived, and now it is not considered a desperate situation."

"Yes, yes, just hide in the woods." Everyone breathed a sigh of relief, and the burden of not saving anyone in the face of death was relieved.

"If someone really comes for the medicinal materials from our clan, if we have a surplus, our relatives will help. If there is not enough surplus, there is nothing we can do." The third uncle said more and more seriously, "We can't For the sake of outsiders, our own people have no medicinal value. I am here to rely on my elders and say, if one day, don't rely on your seniority and relationship to ask Xiaohan and the clan leader, no one can blame them. This is what we do together. Decide."

"Yes, Third Uncle!" Everyone responded quickly.

Things have been settled, and the rest is just details. They are nothing more than digging traps for the imperial conscripts. This matter has not stopped. There is also Li Xiaohan, who needs to be counted again. How long can the medicinal materials used now last? This is all thanks to the previous enthusiasm of the women in the tribe to learn and they stocked up on many medicinal herbs.

After deciding on the details, everyone broke up for a while. Everyone had a lot of work on their hands and was very busy.

Li Xiaohan walked out with Patriarch Li. Patriarch Li saw Li Xiaohan frowning and looking gloomy, thinking that sister Li's little baby's illness was not good.

Just now, intentionally or unintentionally, everyone didn't mention Sister Li's family. In fact, it was already acquiesced that they would stay. After all, the little baby was so young and sick, so they had to be kicked out at this time. , that would kill him. Besides, they also brought news about the imperial conscription of troops and food, which can be regarded as meritorious service.

No one wants to be this evil person, so they acquiesce to their stay.

Patriarch Li felt pity for such a small child, but now that the world is difficult, Patriarch Li really couldn't bear to feel sorry for such a little baby. He only comforted, "Just obey fate in everything you do, and everything else is just for that little kid." The baby's life. Don't think too much."

Li Xiaohan reluctantly twitched the corner of his mouth, a little bit avoiding the question of life and death, and changed the subject: "Our clan will have to train a doctor of our own in the future."

It was really a mistake. Doctor Zhang was there at the time and ignored this issue. Now that I think about it, what's the use of just stocking up on medicines? How much better would they be if they had a professional doctor to lead them?

"Yes. It has to be like this." Patriarch Li responded. In the past, the clan tried its best to cultivate scholars. Those who couldn't read would come back to farm. There would be no problem in living in peace. But who would have thought that King Ding could rebel? Now it seems that there are still not enough ways.

However, it is not easy to train a doctor. They are inherited from father, son, son-in-law, master and apprentice. They don't know many good officials in their clan. No, you can try working with Dr. Zhang. I heard that Dr. Zhang is addicted to medical skills and often lives alone. The family selects a few smart, eye-catching and talented children and sends them to Dr. Zhang to serve him. It would be best if Dr. Zhang takes notice of the chores...

Of course, we have to go through this level first before talking about it.

Patriarch Li thought long-term, but soon came to his senses, turned around and saw Li Xiaohan still frowning, thinking that she still couldn't think about it, so he tried to persuade her, "How can a person think everything perfectly? , just do your best, don't just put the burden on yourself."

It is good for young people to have a sense of responsibility, but if you are too responsible, you will blame yourself for everything and it will easily overwhelm yourself.

Li Xiaohan nodded slightly, acting very obedient, "Yes."

After taking a cup of tea, Li Xiaohan spoke again, "We have to keep enough of the medicinal materials stored in the clan for our own use. There are not many that can be distributed, and we will definitely not be able to satisfy the people who come to borrow medicine. I I thought, some of the herbs used to stop bleeding are collected by us in the fields and mountains and forests, so why don't we teach them to pick them by themselves."

Didn't you promise not to cause trouble for yourself? Why did you think of this again? Patriarch Li sighed inwardly.

"Do you want to teach people how to recognize and prepare medicinal herbs? How to teach us relatives?" The patriarch quickly guessed the reason why Li Xiaohan did this, but he couldn't just watch it happen. People who were waiting for medicine just returned empty-handed.

For ordinary people like them, collecting and refining herbal medicine is a craft that can save lives in troubled times and make money in prosperous times. Whoever has this skill doesn't keep it to themselves, but now it has been taught to other people in the clan without even telling others about it.

The patriarch's heart ached.

"It's not the whole teaching, and it's too late now. It's just that we are taking advantage of the sunset in winter before the snow falls to let everyone take the opportunity to collect a few common hemostatic herbs. If they can be used, it can be regarded as saving lives. It's just life."

The patriarch's heart still aches, but the truth is clear. In this world, being able to save someone's life is considered a good deed, but this matter is too big and too difficult. "You have a good heart." Yes. But it's a bit difficult. The situation in our clan is like this and the chaos outside is like this. Who can we teach? How to teach?"

"I'll think about it again, there is always a way. It's okay to do a little bit, who knows." Li Xiaohan looked ahead and said, as if it was just a small thing that happened naturally. Just like getting up to eat and drink water every day - in the world she once lived in, trying to protect the weak lives and maintain a peaceful order was what most people who had the energy to spare would do. choose.

What came faster than the people asking for help was the court's food and military conscription team.

Also, at this time, there is no room for delay in recruiting troops and food. The troops are approaching the city, waiting to be consumed. Pingshan Village is not too far from the city, and it will not be long before their turn.

It's just recruiting troops and food from some farmers, and it's not a war. Naturally, there is no need to send good soldiers and generals. In fact, in the past, three or five government officials came to inform the matter. Now, there are more than twenty people in the imperial court. For ordinary farmers, it is already a strong deterrent. It is effortless to beat ordinary farmers.

However, for the Li family in Pingshan Village who had just beaten away nearly 200 people, they were an exception.

"Is there such a small number of people?" The young man ambushing beside the wall couldn't help but asked in surprise.

I thought it would be another bloody battle. Although the wounds on their bodies have not fully healed, after hearing the news, they were ready for a bloody battle to the death - even if they died here, they would feel more at ease than being pulled up to the city wall and used as an arrow target. .

Unexpectedly, they were full of blood but did not meet an equal enemy. It was like a fist punching out with all its strength, but the opponent turned out to be a paper shell.

"No." Three or five young people around agreed.

"A lot of people have come. In previous years, there were only three or five government officials to recruit troops and food. With these number 20 people, ordinary villages would not dare to resist." Patriarch Li scolded in a low voice.

Recently, he found that the young people in the clan are quite good, but they are a little too good, and they always feel like they are a little too far ahead, which makes them old guys quite tired.

"Be careful. These are soldiers who are licking their swords and wading through the pile of dead people. We can't win alone. We forgot that you killed people and your hands were shaking a few days ago." Li Shengyi also stopped. .

Between life and death, being too timid or too bold is not a good thing. The calmer you are, the easier it is to save your life.

Even after being told by two elders in the clan, the young people's heated minds finally cooled down a bit and they began to remember to obey orders.

At this moment, the soldiers outside the village moved. I don't know whether they had heard about Pingshan Village's previous achievements before coming, or were blocked by the earthen wall in front of them. They did not charge directly. , but shouted from afar.

"Head of Pingshan Village, we are officials from the imperial court, here to recruit soldiers and food. Come quickly to greet us."

The village chief of Pingshan Village is naturally Chief Li.

"You don't have to go out. With such a small number of people, the trap we set is enough to keep these soldiers here." Li Xiaohan said aloud.

If you can use traps, don't risk your life.

Everyone on the side understood the meaning of Li Xiaohan's words.

Old Uncle Zhong frowned secretly, remembering the sentence he heard in the military camp, "Kindness does not govern soldiers, love does not establish affairs, justice does not manage wealth, and kindness does not serve as an official." '

Miss Li still values life and death too much. In these troubled times, how can one hide in traps for a lifetime? If you are in a military camp, this is the best training opportunity.

However, after all, he is not in a military camp, and his mission is only to protect Miss Li.

Old Uncle Zhong stopped talking, but unexpectedly, Li Shengyi spoke, "There are few people on the other side, we can take this opportunity to practice."

Seeing blood is the same thing as killing a pig. If you see too much, your heart will become cold, and you will feel calm when you draw a knife.

"Shengyi, what do you mean?" Patriarch Li asked.

"Let's go out and meet them for a while. The little brats in the clan need to see some blood before they can gain courage. Besides, it's not easy to set up the traps in our clan. Save the alcoholic paprika for next time. use."

Patriarch Li pondered for a long time, nodded and said, "Sure, it's up to you. You pick someone to go out with me."

Li Xiaohan pursed his lips and wanted to say something, but was stopped by the clan leader with a gentle wave of his hand.

The clan leader led his people out of the main entrance, while Li Shengyi led a large group of people and walked quickly around from both sides.

"You are the head of Pingshan Village." The official on the horse was very unhappy. After waiting for almost half a quarter of an hour since they shouted, the little old man came out slowly.

Forget it slowly, you still dare to pose like this. Shouldn't you be begging for mercy on your knees?

The official has never received such a cold reception, and he has already thought of thousands of ways to deal with these mud-legged people.

"Yes, Mr. Cha." Patriarch Li, still neither humble nor arrogant, replied with his fists clasped.

"Hmph. Do you know that you are delaying your official duties, and you will inevitably be guilty of resisting the soldiers."

"Master Chai, our Li family has been allowed to use medicine in lieu of military service since we fought against the invasion of Northern Western Tartar Prefecture. This matter was allowed by official documents at the time. If the official Chai If you want to recruit troops from my Li clan, please bring out the corresponding official documents."

"Hahahaha." The official smiled up at the sky and said sarcastically, "You are not worthy of giving in with a mud-legged person..."

The words stopped abruptly, because Li Shengyi and others had already led people around from both sides.

There were nearly a hundred young men, even though they were only clothed in coarse linen, but the pressure brought by the uniform order and prohibition directly crushed these more than 20 officials.

"How dare you disobey me!" the leading official shouted at the top of his lungs.

"Kill!" Li Shengyi waved his hand.

Since it is military training, there should be no courtesy between life and death.

The knife is bright and sharp, even if it is an ordinary woodchopping knife or kitchen knife, but at this moment, it is uniformly wanting to drink blood.

Strange!

Didn't it mean that these mud-legged people in Pingshan Village escaped with the help of the flaming pepper wine and pepper powder? Why are these unscrupulous people so bold?

The official picked up a woodcutter, but was struck in his left hand by a butcher's knife coming from the side. If he had not been experienced and agile, the knife would have hit the left atrium.

Something big is wrong.

Evacuate quickly, otherwise I'm afraid we'll end up here today.

The officer used one hand to direct the horse to turn around, broke out of the encirclement with the advantage of his horse, and galloped away.

It's a pity that other officials are not as lucky as him.

…

A quarter of an hour later, the battle ended quickly. The enemy was defeated and fled. They were not even as good as the group from the previous few days.

"Don't chase the poor bandits!"

Li Shengyi touched the blood on his face and drank the drunken young man in the clan.

"Pick up the pieces."

"We won?" Some people couldn't believe that just for a moment, they had already won.

"We won!"

Cheers sounded in twos and threes, and then gathered into one.

"We won."

Saved his own food. Saved his own life.

Li Shengyi curled his lips, "Young man, give the fallen enemy one more blow to make sure he is dead, and then start peeling off the armor and swords from the officers - these equipment are good stuff, he is wearing them today." He also wore a piece of heart armor, which he had stripped off from the officers and soldiers last time. Although it's a bit heavy, it can save your life.

It would be best to have a few more pieces, one for each of their families, including the noble family, the wealthy family, the gold family, the silver family, and the wealthy family. If you don't have Heart Armor, other armors are also acceptable.

Some of the quick-thinking ones have imitated Li Shengyi in searching for loot, while the remaining stubborn ones are still cheering stupidly.

Here, the women's medical team led by Li Xiaohan has begun to rush out to treat the wounded.

This time, victory still belongs to the Li family in Pingshan Village.

The sky is much clearer.

In the distance, the civilians who had been hiding quietly looked at this scene with deep envy in their eyes.

=== Chapter === 195

In the ancestral hall of the Li family in Pingshan Village, women were busy walking back and forth, and the strong smell of blood made this scene reappear in a trance.

But if you look closely, you can see that the rising momentum and slightly weird atmosphere in the room are different from the past. If you look closely, you can see that the faces of the busy women are not too anxious, and the patients are not moaning but... Talking in .

"You didn't see it just now. It was so dangerous at that time. In a flash, I blocked with my right hand and almost knocked the woodcutter off. Fortunately, I chop a lot of firewood on weekdays and my territory is solid. I used my strength to kick it horizontally. …"

"If you ask me, you still haven't practiced well enough. That wasn't a horizontal kick at all, but you couldn't stand firm at all. If I were to strike with my sword, the enemy wouldn't be able to stop it! You didn't see that I was With one strike, it was overwhelming and overwhelming. As talented as I am, I should be chosen as the main force... Ouch, ouch, Lotus Girl, please be gentle, this is your brother's arm. ."

Li Hehua didn't feel any extra pity for this cry of pain, but instead tied the bandage more firmly, "Don't call me sister. According to the seniority in the clan, you have to call me aunt. If you ask me, why is it you? The main force is injured."

"Isn't it...isn't it inevitable that someone will get hurt, so let me suffer. Also, seniority is the same thing. We usually count by age."

"No." Li Hehua tied a knot tightly, stood up, picked up the basin and left, "Only you can't do it, Erzhu's nephew."

"Hahahaha." The brothers and sisters around him laughed mercilessly at Erzhu.

"Oh, the blood will stop flowing. Sister Lotus is good at craftsmanship, but her temper is becoming less and less gentle." Li Erzhu said, not angry, but pretending to be emotional.

"It's all the same. Since my girl learned something from Xiaohan, she can teach me a lesson when she comes back." A slightly injured person next to him agreed.

"It's good to be a little more adventurous. With such a promising future, do you think you have to be popular when you get married?" an older man next to him said, but he was obviously not very steady. "Let's continue. Alas, if you ask me, that's me. I didn't become a soldier. If I had become a soldier, I might not be able to become a captain or a lieutenant general... Who can knock me on the head!"

"I hit you, what's wrong?" Li Shengyi came over at some point and shook the back of the knife. It was obvious that he had hit with this knife just now.

"Uncle Shengyi, it's nothing. Just knock on me." The young man who just said that he was a captain or lieutenant general only dared to touch his head, and he looked like a different person.

"What did you just say? Repeat it again."

"I...I just said that if I were a soldier, I might...I might not be able to survive until the end. Yes, I might not be able to survive until the end."

"On your own, you won't survive until the end. Are your hands still shaking after the last stab you made?" After Li Shengyi said that, he also knocked the man's right hand with the back of the knife, which only knocked him speechless. He only dared to smile flatteringly.

Li Shengyi didn't say anything else, he just gave these young people who were overly excited and boasted that they had gone too far a look and then left slowly.

Seeing that Li Shengyi was gone, everyone dared to speak.

"How did Uncle Shengyi know that my hands were shaking at the end?"

"Uncle Shengyi is watching. I heard that the elders in the clan didn't use their full strength this time, and they had to watch us carefully and give us some cover to prevent any accidents."

"No wonder, when I almost didn't block it, my dad showed up in such a timely manner."

"It's okay. When we get older, we'll be stable enough. Otherwise, we can just practice a few more times."

"In today's world, there are still many opportunities for practice."

"yes."

I don't know if it's good or bad, or whether I can practice it in the future. If you can't practice it, you won't have another chance in the future.

After being depressed for a while, everyone cheered up again, but this time the topic was changed.

"I just thought about it and it seems that my splitting posture is not right, and the force I use is wrong. According to what old Uncle Zhong taught, the lower body should be stable and the lower back should be used together. I only used my hands to use force, and it was not strong enough."

"Do you feel the same way? I'm embarrassed to say it, but actually I feel a little unsure. I picked the knife in the wrong direction..."

The ancestral hall soon started to get noisy again, but this time it was much calmer and more solid.

Above the crowd, the ancestral tablets were watching all this quietly in the bright and dark light and shadow.

After confirming that there were no deaths or serious injuries, and guiding Hehua and the others to deal with a few more seriously injured people, Li Xiaohan handed the stall to Li Hehua and went to the clan's lecture hall to hold a meeting with the clan leader and the others.

"Xiaohan, here you go, sit down."

Although the specific data has not been released, everyone can see that this time the family members did not suffer much loss, and the injuries were not serious.

And what they got was that most of the people in the clan had an important experience. Presumably, after this time, the courage and spirit of the young people in the clan have greatly improved.

Li Xiaohan sat down as he was told, and she couldn't help but feel a sense of relief, "This time, a total of 140 strong men from our clan faced the battle head-on, and there were 29 wounded. Only three of them were injured in the arm and needed to recuperate. The rest are all minor injuries."

"Oh, the injury is not serious, much better than last time."

"After all, there were many people on the other side last time, and this is also our first time."

"No, if there is another chance like this next time, we have to go out and practice."

"It's fortunate that Xiaohan and the others are here, so we can go on the field with peace of mind. If it were before, not to mention serious injuries, just minor injuries with no medical treatment or cure, we would just wait and see." One person suddenly sighed with half a sigh. Dai Feng said.

Although what he said was true, Li Xiaohan didn't know why the topic suddenly came to him. The elders in the clan were said to be kind and honest, and of course they were kind and honest to their own people. But if you think that they don't have their own vision and believe whatever they say, then you are the one who is stupid.

Therefore, Li Xiaohan paused for a moment and just acted like a humble junior, "Uncle Gensheng is too complimentary. I am also a member of the clan, and I should be able to contribute. Everyone is doing it for the clan, for the sake of the clan." We ourselves."

Li Xiaohan said this, and Li Gensheng's face turned red as he spoke, especially when everyone around him looked at him. It was obvious that he was not kind, so he could only say, "I am speaking from my heart, and it is absolutely true. I I swear, there will never be any lies!"

"No one said you were fake." Patriarch Li said calmly, "Gensheng, I also know about your daughter's matter. We will handle it as we said before."

"Clan leader, I know, I just... I just want to have a good relationship with Xiaohan. Alas, I am not good at it."

"What's going on?" Li Xiaohan asked in surprise, is there really a hidden secret?

"You were busy just now, so I didn't have time to tell you that your uncle Gensheng's daughter was married in the Zhujia Village next door. Someone in the family was injured, and now he has come to ask for help. I let you Auntie has gone to deal with it, so you don't have to worry about it." Patriarch Li explained quietly.

Li Xiaohan thought for a while and just said, "Yeah."

Regarding the matter of visiting relatives to seek medicine from the clan, the clan had already reached a conclusion before. Later, Li Xiaohan and clan leader Li refined the details. All that can be done now is to follow the rules.

Seeing that Li Xiaohan's face was calm and not angry, everyone secretly breathed a sigh of relief, including Li Gensheng. I don't know why, but Li Xiaohan is obviously very young, and he doesn't put on any airs in the clan. He mostly refers to himself as a junior. But now, especially during this period of time, everyone can't help but look up to Li Xiaohan.

This is what Li Gensheng did this time. He also flattered Patriarch Li in this way in the past. Of course, it seems now that the method is wrong.

Soon others turned the topic elsewhere.

"Now the imperial court is recruiting troops and food. I don't know how long it will take."

"It won't be long. If my guess is correct, the imperial army has been stationed outside the city, and they may have started preparing to attack the city. When the fighting really gets fierce, no one will pay attention to us."

"I wonder how life is in the city? We don't know anything here, and there's no one to ask."

"Who knows, no one dares to go to the city now, for fear of being sent to the door automatically, and there will be no return. In the past two days, it seems from a distance that some people are starting to escape from the city to the mountains, guess what? You can guess what."

"Speaking of the mountains, I wonder how Xinhe and the others are doing in the mountains. It's inconvenient after all."

"Yes, the weather has been good these days, and the autumn air is crisp, but the nights are getting cold after all. Winter is about to begin, and a cold rain will be a problem."

"Don't say such unlucky words." Someone immediately objected.

But what is unlucky is the truth. As the saying goes, "Every autumn rain comes and a cold comes." This autumn rain will eventually come back, and winter will come too.

"Why don't we let Xin and them come back? Now our clan is not helpless to fight back."

"No. We were lucky these two times. If more people come, we won't be able to resist them."

"How can there be so many people coming to beat us? If they come, we can just run away."

"How can you run away with your family and mouth?"

For a while, there were many opinions, and worries about the relatives hiding on the mountain trumped joy. However, after all, there was no perfect solution.

How long will it take for these days of hiding and fighting to end?

At this time, outside Pingshan Village, Li Gensheng's daughter finally waited for her biological mother. It was just too scary that she walked to her mother's house and found that her mother's family was actually fighting with the officers and soldiers in the city. She was frightened. Her legs were so weak that she could only roll and crawl to hide.

After waiting for half an hour, my mother's village not only dared to fight with the city's officers and soldiers, but also won.

This is so true, I couldn't even think about it, I was shocked and scared, and in the end it all turned into happiness and joy. Well played!

After the beating was over, Li Gensheng's daughter boldly walked back to her parents' home. It's just strange that the walls of the village were all sealed when, and even the main road in the middle left only a small entrance. Li Gensheng's daughter was prevented from moving forward and was only asked to wait where she was.

After waiting for a while, he saw his mother rushing out in a hurry.

"Mom, you're finally here. What's going on in the clan? We can't come back in the future?"

In fact, I probably understand what's going on. The world is in chaos, and outsiders are not welcome in my natal village.

"Chun Niu, it's very chaotic now, so be careful. Here, I'll give you some medicine."

Li Gensheng's daughter took it over with joy, but when touching the two thin packages of medicinal materials wrapped in rough straw paper, she said anxiously and embarrassedly, "Mom... your granddaughter's injury is a little more serious, is there more?" "

She naturally knows how valuable the medicine is, but she can't help it. Now she can no longer find a doctor, let alone in the city. She had no choice but to shamelessly beg to come to her door.

"Chun Niu, who doesn't know that medicinal materials are expensive, and now the clan must use them first. I tell you, you can't cook this packet of medicine right away. You have identified it. This is Huangjing. I picked it in the fields to stop bleeding. Before winter comes, you can go to the fields and look for whatever you can find. Also, this is Wang Buliuxing, which can also stop bleeding..."

"Remember?"

"Mom, how can I remember it for a while?" The more anxious he became, the more panicked he became, feeling that he didn't remember anything.

"If you can't remember, you have to remember, even if you are facing death, you are a man with children. How can my mother have so many medicines for your family? The clan stipulates that a family is a relative. You can only give medicine once, two packs at a time. Do you understand?"

Before Li Chunniu could react, she heard her mother start chasing people away, "Let's go, don't come again, the road is dangerous. The clan is not at peace now, so you can live a good life."

"mother…"

"Let's go!" shouted a loud voice.

Li Chunniu held back the tears in her eyes and said, "Mom, I understand. I'm leaving. You and dad take good care of yourself."

After saying that, he turned around, not daring to look back, and staggered away with two bags of medicinal materials in his arms.

The tears finally flowed down.

She didn't look back and didn't see her. The old figure behind her kept watching her go away.

=== Chapter === 196

How long does a war last?

Li Xiaohan didn't know much about this in the past. Based on his impressions from various film and television works and literary works, about ten days and a half months should be considered a long time. After all, in the cold weapon era, ten days and a half months was enough to fight. Both sides were exhausted. For example, the most famous battle she knew, the Battle of Chibi, only lasted three days and three nights.

But now she knows that the Battle of Chibi only lasted three days and three nights in Chibi, and in the early planning and preparation of the entire war, Cao Cao made both military and political preparations in the first month of the thirteenth year of Jian'an. In that month, Cao Cao led his troops southward, and after experiencing a fierce battle at Changbanpo and the alliance between Sun and Liu, the great fire at Chibi was ignited in December.

I prepared for seven months and played intermittently for half a year. A war was just a part of the troubled times of that year. As for the final victory, we don't know when it will come back, and we may not even wait until victory comes in our lifetime.

It had been half a month since the day when the imperial court besieged Dingcheng. They didn't know how the battle in Dingcheng was going, and no one dared to watch.

But it is definitely getting more and more tragic, because more and more people are taking Dingcheng as the center of the circle, dragging their families with them, and spreading to all directions. Some people are hiding in the mountains, and some are walking south. After all, the capital is now They are no longer welcome in Dingcheng. There may be a way to survive in the south, provided that they can reach Jiangnan.

Although the people of Pingshan Village have no plans to move for the time being, it seems that if there is no large army to besiege them, they still have the strength to fight.

However, these days of anxiety, worry, and fear are ultimately difficult to bear. Traps were laid out and people were on guard day and night for fear of insurgents. The mature pods in the fields were harvested indiscriminately, and the winter wheat that had just been sown was also carelessly taken care of. If the rice straws in the fields were not turned over and buried deep in the ground before the cold winter came, , none of it will rot into fertilizer next year, and it will also affect next year's spring sowing plan...

It affects the work in the fields and always makes farmers feel uneasy.

Especially in these troubled times, food is a matter of life.

When can we wait for rescue? When will there be peace?

Some people had questions in their hearts, and some asked in a low voice, with the light of hope in their eyes faltering, "So, can we hope that after the victory in Qicheng, the prince will rush back to rescue the city from danger?"

"I estimate that after the prince takes Qicheng, he will definitely rush back to Dingcheng as soon as possible. However, after all, it is a large army traveling, and there are too many things that need to be prepared, especially after the battle between Qicheng and General Zheng, the army also You need to rest and prepare, and the time required is difficult to grasp." Li Xiaohan said with a frown.

These were all deduced from her recent chat with Old Uncle Zhong and others, based on the existing army configuration and the plot in the book. Of course, she also made reference to some ancient wars. After summarizing various information sources, we can only say that the future is bright but the road is tortuous.

"As the old saying goes, before the soldiers and horses are moved, food and grass go first. The army returns from Qicheng. There is a lot to prepare. Even if it is urgent, it will take time." Old Uncle Zhong agreed.

In fact, they have talked and there is no news of the fall of the city. It is estimated that the princess and the crown prince used the "Stability" technique to defend the city, which was quite effective - as long as the city can be held for one more day, the prince will be better prepared. , the battle confidence is also greater.

"Then what should we do?" someone asked in panic.

"Compared to other villages, our days are already settled. At least we are not displaced yet, so surviving this winter is not a problem. Even if all the winter wheat this winter is gone, we still have allicin and panax notoginseng styptic powder. After all, I can survive with my job." The clan leader seemed very calm.

Although I couldn't help but feel heartbroken when I said that this winter's crop of wheat was wasted, we were still not at the end of the road.

The key is, how to survive this winter?

"The issue we are discussing today is that the weather is getting colder and colder. What should we do with the elderly and children in the mountains? Should we continue to stay in the mountains, or should we let them come back?"

These days, the village has been in contact with Li Xin and the young and old who were brought into the mountains. In fact, after the second wave of attacks, someone had already proposed that Li Xin and them come back. After all, the environment in the deep mountains is too bad. It is okay to hide for a while, but it is inconvenient to hide for a long time.

But the person who contacted them at that time came back and said that Li Xin and them found a cave with a good environment. They stayed and sorted it out, and it could be regarded as a stronghold for the clan in the future.

This stronghold is not yet completely in order, but there was an autumn rain last night.

As the saying goes, one autumn rain and another cold, this rain has already brought a hint of chill.

It was so cold that people panicked from the bottom of their hearts, so there was this clan meeting in the morning.

"The weather is getting colder and colder. If the elderly or children get cold, it will be difficult to deal with it since we don't have a serious doctor in our clan." Li Xiaohan pointed out the current problem hesitantly.

They are now somewhat confident about external injuries. After all, you can make a mistake, and there are external wound medicines at hand. But for non-traumatic injuries, especially after what happened to Li Damei's family, she was not sure. Although Li Damei's children finally recovered from the fever safely, Li Xiaohan only regarded that as luck.

If there was going to be a cold, she wasn't sure.

"These days, it looks like it's getting more and more chaotic outside. More and more people are hiding in the mountains. It's not appropriate for us to come back at this time. Didn't Xinhe and the others bring a lot of tiger balm and allicin with them in the mountains? It's better for us to send the supplies up than if the enemy comes and takes the pot all at once." Some people objected to coming back.

In the past, the mountains were not suitable for staying for such a long time, but now that they have medicine and people, the mountains are actually safer than outside.

"Yes, let's send quilts and food up there. Didn't Xinhe say last time that the abandoned cave was quite big? We just saved some food." After all, the clan is not 100% safe now, so leave some escape routes. There is nothing wrong.

"Yes, our family's allicin will also be shipped up. In case we have to withdraw, we can't take advantage of the other side." This season's new harvest of garlic, the workshop is shipping day and night, but now, chaos The road was blocked and all the goods were packed here.

…

In a few words, everyone gradually perfected the matter. Compared with the cold, it was the insurgent soldiers who would appear out of nowhere that made people feel more frightened.

That's fine. Li Xiaohan thought about Li Xiaoshuang and Wang on the mountain, and would get over it if it was a little colder. After all, except for herself, no one in this era seemed to be very afraid of the cold. Now that there is food and medicine, it would be best if the mountains are safe.

"Clan leader, clan leader." Suddenly, someone ran in panting and shouted.

"What happened?" Chief Li asked hurriedly. The clan members knew that they were having a small meeting here and generally would not disturb them unless there was something urgent. "Are there any enemies coming? "

"No, no." The visitor gasped and said urgently, "Someone threw two children at the entrance of our village."

"What!"

Whoever it was, they didn't expect this turn. They looked at each other and didn't know where to start.

"Early in the morning, the defensive brothers saw a family of four walking towards our village, and we stopped them by shouting. Unexpectedly, they stopped at the entrance of the village. Two adults didn't know what they said, and suddenly they pulled the two children away. The child was thrown on the roadside and ran away. We took a detour and couldn't catch up. Now there are only two children left crying at the door. The brothers who were defending didn't know what to do. They sent me back to ask the clan leader." The visitor gasped. He explained with great enthusiasm, showing that he was really anxious to come over.

What is this!

Patriarch Li frowned so hard that he could catch a fly and stood up, "Let's go out and take a look first."

Everyone followed Patriarch Li out and saw a brother and sister, about three to five years old, hugging each other outside the village, crying softly.

Patriarch Li and others went around from the side, and the more they looked, the worse it became.

"Hey, kid, where are your adults?" someone asked loudly.

"No... I don't know." The two children seemed to be frightened. The older girl raised her head and said timidly. She was extremely scared but pretended to be calm.

"Why did your parents leave you here?"

"My brother is sick. My parents told us to stay here. Please, Miss Li, please save my brother."

As soon as he said this, the onlookers exploded.

"Sure enough, they are here for our medicine."

"How can you be so shameless and leave your child here? You are relying on us, right?"

"It can't be saved. This is an example. What if they try to throw their children in our direction?"

When the younger brother heard this, he cried even louder. The older sister, who had always insisted on being sensible, also shed tears, "I...we have money."

After that, the little girl took out a money bag from her arms and poured out bits and pieces of money. It was just a piece of silver and a few copper coins. It was estimated that it was more than one or two at most. The money was not enough to buy a bottle. Allicin.

Obviously their parents also knew about it, so they beheaded them first and then threw them here and ran away.

"Their parents must still be here watching. Where did they go?" someone said loudly, looking around.

Although these parents acted annoyingly, it was obvious that they loved their children, otherwise they would not have thought of ways to throw the sick children here and keep the money. Such parents are probably still watching quietly from a distance.

"He was running that way."

The person left behind pointed in a direction, and everyone quickly looked in that direction. Even the siblings suddenly raised their heads, with hope in their eyes.

However, the sky and the earth are vast and vast, and as far as the eye can see there is only a field that has been harvested in a hurry. The ditches and ditches are very quiet, and there is no human figure anywhere.

It's not like they could go all the way and search inch by inch.

I watched for a long time without giving up, but didn't see a single figure. Everyone was disappointed.

Li Xiaohan sighed, feeling a little heavy in his heart, but not angry, just a heavy helplessness weighing on his heart, "Little girl, what is your name? Where are your parents? Where is your home? ?"

"My name is Zhang Hua'er, my brother's name is Zhang Guo'er, my father's name is Zhang Dazhuang, and my mother's name is Aunt Zhou. My family is in Zhangjiacun, and my parents are hiding." Although the little girl was scared, she answered in a coherent manner. .

"Why are your parents hiding? Do you know where they are hiding?" Although he held little hope, Li Xiaohan couldn't help but ask.

"There are bad guys. They want to arrest people in our village. The bad guys have also taken away our food. My parents said that the bad guys will come back and take us all away, so we have to hide." Zhang Huaer said half He said with anger and half sadness. After a moment, he lowered his head and said hesitantly, "You can't tell people where my parents are hiding."

Li Xiaohan's heart was heavy. It was obvious that this family had to hide in the wild in order to avoid military conscription and food requisition. Although this little girl said that he could not tell her, she might not really remember it. Clearly, it was just her parents' repeated instructions, and she remembered them and couldn't say anything.

Such young children are very likely to get sick when the weather is getting colder, there are few of them, and they have to hide here and there. Thinking that the parents had no choice but to find a doctor now, they threw the child into Pingshan Village.

But, what to do now? To answer or not to answer? If you accept it, it will be your own business, and there will be endless trouble in the future; if you don't accept it, you will just leave it at the entrance of the village and ignore it.

Li Xiaohan was silent for a moment, and then asked, "What's wrong with your brother?"

"Diarrhea, vomiting, fever."

Li Xiaohan looked at the little boy holding his sister tightly and asked sadly, "How did you hide from the bad guys? What did you eat? Where did you sleep?"

"Hide outside during the day, eat wheat cakes and water, and sneak back home at night." Zhang Hua'er said timidly.

Eating in the wild during the day is definitely not a good environment. If the water is not boiled, such a small child will ask, "How old are you?"

"I am six years old and my brother is four."

It's a little bigger than expected, but it's normal for people to be thin at this time if they don't eat well.

Li Xiaohan reached out his hand and touched the little boy's forehead. It was very hot. As soon as I thought about it, I touched the little girl's forehead, which was also warm.

"How is it?" Patriarch Li asked when he saw Li Xiaohan's serious expression.

"They're all feverish."

"What do you want to do?" Because he said he was looking for Miss Li for treatment, Patriarch Li wanted to hear Li Xiaohan's opinion.

"Either bring them in immediately while no one sees them, to prevent others from seeing them and imitating them; or be cruel and leave them here, regardless of life or death, until their parents come to take them back."

"Can't we just let them wait here? Maybe their parents will come and get it." Chief Li asked with a hint of unwillingness. As the leader of the clan, his position was more in favor of the interests of the clan.

"Yes, but the longer it goes, the more people will see it, and it will be troublesome to take him in." After thinking about it, Li Xiaohan continued, "It's useless to take him away. This sick child is hiding here and there. Yes, it depends on fate."

Taking them away means basically leaving these two children to die. After all, there is no cure or cure. As long as there is a way, these parents will not leave the children here. Especially if they are still hiding here and there, the sick children will only get worse. But if they don't hide, there's no telling when the baby's parents will be taken away, and it will only be a matter of time before the two little babies are left in this cannibalistic world.

Living in this era, life cannot be said to be good.

Most people know this truth when they think about it. The rabbit dies and the fox is sad. Thinking of themselves, everyone's faces gradually showed a look of intolerance, anger and helplessness, and finally there was a sad silence.

In this world, ordinary people like them are just duckweeds in the wind. They don't know where the wind comes from, nor where they are blown by the wind.

It seemed like a long time passed before Li Xiaohan made this decision, "Come with me. We don't need these two bowls of rice and two bowls of medicine. If we really can't hold on any longer, it will also be the responsibility of these two children." Life."

Li Xiaohan finally made his own decision, and she will be the only one to be blamed in the future.

Patriarch Li had no objection.

Perhaps they had been warned, and perhaps they guessed that the girl who spoke was Miss Li they were looking for. After Li Xiaohan finished speaking, Zhang Huaer tried her best to hold Zhang Guoer's hand and followed Li Xiaohan.

"It's about how much two little kids can eat." Someone in the crowd immediately responded.

"Who says it's not the case? With just half a spoonful of rice per person, we can feed these two little ones until the end of the year." Someone pretended to be relaxed and said, but in fact now, whenever a piece of rice falls in the house, you have to pick it up and blow the ashes away. inside.

In fact, it is not just a matter of two bowls of rice, but now everyone is willing to ignore this issue.

As a group of people went back, the crowd gradually dispersed and everyone went to do other things. Naturally, Wawa followed Li Xiaohan to see a doctor. After thinking about it, Li Xiaohan took the two little dolls to Aunt Zhao in the dining hall, and then told them about their origins.

"Okay, I understand." Uncle Zhao's two little grandsons who are hiding are also about the same age. "Don't worry, leave it to me, and let them follow me at night. Go ahead." Uncle Zhao said Said generously.

Li Xiaohan thought about it, he had too many things to do at night, and because of the lottery arrangement, Li Xiandong followed Li Xinhe to the mountains, and Wang and Li Xiaoshuang were also in the mountains. This is what he said at the beginning, what if it really happened? At the end of the road, don't let the three members of the Li family become Li Xiaohan's weakness.

Li Xiaohan was at home alone with his old Uncle Zhong, and he was really not sure that he could raise two children. He could only apologize and said, "That would be troublesome for Aunt Zhao."

"What a big deal." Ms. Zhao said with a smile. In the past, she had arranged everything for her family, but now her daughter-in-law is taking her grandson on the mountain, and it's easy to watch the two little babies. And as soon as she saw them, she knew that these two little babies were easy to take care of. Their parents had taught them.

Mrs. Zhao was reliable, so Li Xiaohan lowered his head and said to the little girl, "Take your brother and follow Aunt Zhao. I'll get you some medicine."

Zhang Hua'er raised his head, and his big black eyes on his thin and yellow face were filled with fear at first, then gradually became firm, "Miss Li, I will definitely take good care of my brother and not cause you any trouble. Here you go, Medicine money."

Li Xiaohan touched the little girl's slightly yellow hair, paused, and finally put the money bag away, "Okay, I've accepted your money. You can live here."

Zhang Hua'er showed a fleeting smile, and then held Zhang Guo'er's hand again. Zhang Guoer remained silent and clung to her sister tightly.

Half an hour later, Li Xiaohan came to the ancestral hall with two bowls of hot medicine and fed it to Zhang Hua'er and Zhang Guo'er. The two siblings quickly fell asleep - calming and antipyretic medicine, along with It has a certain sleeping effect, and sleep is a self-protection and self-healing mechanism shared by humans for thousands of years.

After the two children fell asleep, Li Xiaohan picked up half a bag of grain and handed it to Mrs. Zhao, "Auntie, this is the ration for Huaer and Guoer."

"Xiaohan, what are you doing? The clan leader just said that those two children will be recorded in the clan's public accounts."

The Li family now eats from a big pot, but the food is handed in by each family according to their population. The family's public account subsidizes part of it, and the wounded and main team members receive a fixed amount of subsidies from the family. After all, the conditions of each household are different. Although some families are willing, they really do not have the conditions to be able to eat well. At this time, the family subsidy has just made up for this amount.

It was at this time that everyone realized that the clan leader had secretly stored so much food.

Li Xiaohan was stunned for a moment, with a trace of surprise on his face, and then he became relaxed, but still insisted, "Aunt Zhao, you'd better accept it. The clan has its own rules, so don't make it difficult for the clan leader. . I still have this little food at home."

"Okay, since you insist so much, I'll accept it." Zhao is the person in charge of the canteen. Naturally, she knows that the food for these two little babies is not good for the clan or Li Xiaohan. Whatever burden it is, just put it away.

After handing over the food, Li Xiaohan went back. In fact, food is not the key, the key is the medicinal materials. She took the initiative to bring the two siblings in because of the source of the medicinal materials in the tribe. Partly because it was the women in the tribe who collected and hoarded the medicinal materials, but the biggest Part of it comes from her private collection, and everyone in the clan knows this.

However, the two siblings Zhang Hua'er and Zhang Guo'er always make people feel heavy.

What's the situation outside? Is the weather getting colder?

As a broad-spectrum antibiotic, allicin has the power to crush germs that have never been beaten in this era. It can be said to be sweeping across thousands of armies and invincible. For people like Zhang Huaer and Zhang Guoer, it is probably The fever and diarrhea caused by unclean food infection are very symptomatic. Zhang Huaer and Zhang Guoer's fever subsided soon. Coupled with the stable environment, the two siblings improved visibly.

Unfortunately, another child was picked up outside Pingshan Village. I don't know if it was seen last time or if these parents are all in tune with each other.

The gatekeeper almost lost his shoes. Unfortunately, there were too many winding traps outside Pingshan Village. By the time he got out, the adults had already disappeared, leaving only a crying baby.

What else can I do? I really can't find an adult to come back and collect it, so I can only collect it.

If there is one, there will be two, and if there are two, there will be three. Especially after Zhang Huaer and Zhang Guoer recovered from their illness, the people of Pingshan Village put them where they were. After about an hour, the parents actually came in and knelt three times. After he took the two siblings away, Pingshan Village suddenly became a medical center for nearby children.

I feel really angry and helpless when facing these rogue people.

"Aunt Zhao, two more are here today."

Early in the morning, the strong man guarding the city led two little babies with runny noses to Mrs. Zhao. His strong body had a helpless tone, and he was very frustrated. He did not catch up and let the adults run away.

"I don't know whose food it is."

These people are becoming more and more cunning. They come over quietly before dawn and don't get close. When they see someone drop the baby, they run away. Afraid of being conspicuous by carrying food with others, I even learned to bring the food over the next day.

Simply.

"Okay, leave me here, you can go out." Zhao said quickly.

"You two kids, follow me."

Two little babies followed timidly.

Less than half a month later, the weather warmed up for a while, but overall it became colder.

"Brother Li, Brother Li."

Outside Pingshan Village, a man dressed as a woman in a skirt waved and shouted outside Pingshan Village.

The voice that shouted was a rough man's voice.

In order to avoid military service, men no longer dare to go out in men's clothes. They all wear women's clothes and smear mud pot ashes on their faces, which is very nondescript.

"What's going on?" A man appeared from the wall of Pingshan Village and asked. No matter which Brother Li he looks for, everyone in Pingshan Village is Brother Li.

"The prince is back. The prince is back."

"What!" Brother Li's throat was split, and he leaned forward regardless of the risk of falling, for fear that he might not hear clearly, "Speak clearly! The prince is back, is it true or not!"

The people lurking in the dark all around almost couldn't help but pop up. Fortunately, they held back at the last moment, but they pricked up their ears one by one. .

The people waving outside the wall were full of joy, and they cried from the corners of their smiling lips, "It's true! It's true! I saw it from a distance, and the prince's army is back. It's our prince."

After saying that, the man was already in tears, covering his face with his hands and whining non-stop.

"Quick, quick, call the clan leader and Xiaohan over."

The man on the city wall turned his head and roared, and someone immediately ran towards the ancestral hall.

Li Xiaohan and Patriarch Li ran over in a hurry. Li Xiaohan was fine, he was young and in good health, but Patriarch Li was different. He was older, and usually had a bit of the airs of the patriarch. At this moment, he ran very fast and climbed up without caring about his manners. When I climbed the wall, I was out of breath and had no image at all.

But at this time, he didn't care about the invisible things. The patriarch put his hands on his waist, took a deep breath, and asked loudly, "That man, which village are you from? How did you know that the prince is back?"

The man outside the wall was still squatting on the ground, holding his head and crying lowly, feeling depressed and sad. When he heard someone shouting, he stood up, wiped a handful on his face, and said in a hoarse voice, "I am from Liujia Village. My name is Liu Han, my village is close to the city, I secretly ran back to take a look, and I saw the prince's military flag."

"Find someone to call Sister Li over, quickly!" After hearing Liu Han's words, Li Xiaohan immediately realized that the family of Sister Li who they took in and brought their children back to her parents' home was married to Liu Jiacun.

Sister Li's child did not leave after he recovered.

First, because her natal family is here, the food and drinks are all provided by her natal family. The family has no objection to raising a married woman, and it is not easy for everyone to talk.

Second, the elders and younger ones of Sister Li's family are going out to hide here and there. It's really difficult now. We can't rescue this person, and then drive them out to die. No one wants to be the evil person, so Pretend you can't see it at all.

A man on the city wall immediately ran down and soon ran away.

The waiting time is particularly difficult. The more I hope this news is true, the less I can afford the unexpected consequences.

=== Chapter === 197

"Have you seen the prince? Are there many people returning to the city?" After a while, Li Damei's family had not arrived yet, and Patriarch Li couldn't help but continue to ask.

As the leader of a clan, the more power you have on weekdays, the heavier the burden will be at this time. For Patriarch Li, the news that King Ding had returned to the city was related to all subsequent arrangements.

"I didn't see the prince. I was too far on the top of the mountain and couldn't see clearly. But there were so many people, so many soldiers, that I couldn't even count them at a glance."

The strong soldiers and horses from the prince's side gave Liu Han not fear, but great hope.

Obviously, the Li family thought the same way. Everyone couldn't wait for the arrival of Sister Li's family, and they all asked about the situation at that time.

Soon Li Xiaomei ran over with her mother-in-law, and everyone stopped quickly. They already believed that the prince was back, but they still hoped that someone could strengthen this trust.

"Recognize, are you from Liujia Village?" Li Xiaohan said, not because he was careless, but because they couldn't afford any mistakes now.

Sister Li squinted her eyes to make out the details. It was just that she was a daughter-in-law who married into a foreign country. She had only been married for a few years. She was not familiar with everyone in Liujia Village, and the man outside was wearing a t-shirt. The appearance of a woman dressed as a woman, I really didn't dare to confirm for a while.

However, Sister Li's mother-in-law squinted her eyes for a while and shouted with a trembling voice, "Liu Han? Is that you? You were not taken away?!"

Liu Han also recognized him from outside the wall, and his voice became more and more excited, "Aunt Hu, it's me. I went up the mountain that day, and wasted time so I spent the night in the mountain. When I came back, I found that all the men in our village had been recruited. . I didn't dare to say anything, so I hid in the mountains with my family."

"You were not drafted away." Mother-in-law Li's mother-in-law burst into tears. Perhaps she thought of her husband and young son who was drafted away, and she murmured, "It's great, it's good that you weren't drafted away."

"Aunt Hu, our prince is back. You can go home soon. The prince will definitely win." When he saw the villagers, Liu Han seemed to have found a companion and said loudly.

"Really? How do you know."

"I noticed something was wrong on the mountain, so I secretly rushed back and saw it."

"You know that Sister Li's family is in our village, and you came here specifically to tell them?" Patriarch Li frowned, interrupted the two people who had been talking, and asked.

"Um... I didn't know Aunt Hu and the others were here. I just..." Liu Han scratched his head and lowered his voice, a little uncomfortable, "My baby was sick earlier, so I let her go to your village." Came. Later, when it was all right, we took him back. I just wanted to tell you the news."

Liu Han was very embarrassed. There was really nothing he could do at that time. He watched the baby become more and more sick without any treatment or medicine. People like them who are hiding in the mountains will pass messages to each other when they meet, so they can only imitate other people's rogue methods.

In particular, they didn't store much food. At that time, they only gave them a small bag of food and a rabbit caught in the mountains as medicine. This was definitely not enough, but they could only afford so much. .

Fortunately, the baby was cured. After returning, the baby said that the food was good here in Pingshan Village. He could eat enough every day and could also eat meat.

He owed so much to someone, so he had to keep it in mind.

"Oh, so that's it." Patriarch Li nodded.

Their village recently took in some children, and allicin was given to them. At that time, they thought it would be a loss-making business, but it was a good thing at that time. Now it seems that it can still be recovered a little.

Li Xiaohan frowned, feeling that he had overlooked something?

What was overlooked?

child? Prince?

The child was real, there was no need to lie to them. She remembered that she had indeed treated a little baby named Liu; the prince would definitely succeed, so there was no need to worry.

No, it's not the children and the prince, it's the imperial army.

As if being awakened from a sweet dream by a thunderbolt, Li Xiaohan felt a strong panic in his heart.

What would the imperial court do if its army failed?

What will you do?

Defeated and retreated!

Skirmishers flee!

You have to make some money before you leave!

"Clan Chief, if the imperial court is defeated, there will definitely be rebels coming to us, and we still have a tough battle to fight."

Patriarch Li was rejoicing, and his heart was frightened by Li Xiaohan's guess, but he intuitively realized that this was probably true.

For a time, there was a lot of chaos, I couldn't grasp the clue, and I didn't know what to do next.

Based on past experience, it is just a matter of soldiers coming to cover up the water and the earth. However, experienced hunters all know that the last blow of an animal in the mountains is the most ferocious and unstoppable.

The same is true for people. What they are about to face may be anger and venting without scruples and full of resentment.

And they have families and businesses, and those who wear shoes are afraid of those who go barefoot.

"Those children, those who are still in our village, must be sent away immediately. Our village is the most dangerous and we will not be able to take care of them at that time." Li Xiaohan tried to clear his thoughts and make a judgment.

"Yes, send him off first." Patriarch Li immediately agreed.

"Liu Han, you know that when you send a sick child to our village, you people hiding outside must have secretly passed on the message. Tell them to spread the word to each other as soon as possible and ask them to come and pick up the child immediately. Immediately, Right away." Li Xiaohan shouted loudly, regardless of the majesty of the clan leader.

"Miss Li, I'll tell them right away. But, they may not be willing." Liu Han said awkwardly. They met in the mountains and did secretly spread some news.

However, if the baby is not healed yet, some people may not be willing to take it back immediately. After all, it has been spread among them privately that the best and only way for this child to fall ill is to send him to Pingshan Village.

"I know what you are thinking. However, our Pingshan Village is in danger now. The prince is back. If the imperial court is defeated, some stragglers will definitely come to attack our Pingshan Village and seize allicin styptic powder and other secret recipes. Previously, they The vanguard has already come once, but failed. This time, they will definitely come with more people, and we can't stop them."

"Ah!" Liu Han was obviously shocked by the news and became anxious, "Then Miss Li, what should you do?"

"It depends on the situation. You tell them to take the child away quickly. There are no children in our clan here."

"Okay, I understand. I will tell people the news immediately."

"Remember, be quick!"

Liu Han agreed loudly and ran away in panic.

Li Xiaohan looked at his retreating figure with mixed feelings in his heart.

Their most severe battle, their last battle, is coming.

Three days later, all the children were picked up. Some children who were still taking medicine, carrying medicine bags and looking confused, were taken away by their parents who rushed over.

In the past three days, except for the children who were being treated, all the important food, medicine, and wounded people without fighting power in Pingshan Village were moved to the back mountain. Fortunately, Li Xinhe and his people found a place that was large and concealed enough to Hide these things.

Everyone was on tenterhooks and made all the preparations.

Time passed very quickly. From the mouths of the hiding civilians passing by, the Li family in Pingshan Village also learned more and more information: fighting and burning in the city, and blood flowing everywhere... The duel between elite divisions, always It requires the complete failure and death of one party to declare the end.

On this day, the sun was setting in the west. The tense Li family members seemed to have finished their dinner in batches as usual, leaving people behind to guard. They thought that the day was just like any other day.

Suddenly, Old Uncle Zhong frowned and shouted sternly, "Silence!"

Everyone was startled by the sudden sound, and all ongoing activities were suspended. Before they had time to ask questions, they saw old Uncle Zhong suddenly lying down on the ground, with one ear to the ground, frowning and concentrating. of listening to something.

It was like a heavy blow resounding in everyone's heart. Needless to say, everyone suddenly understood what they were worried about.

After a while, Old Uncle Zhong stood up with a very solemn expression, "Here we come. Listen to the resonant sound of horse hooves. There are about two hundred cavalry this time. The sound of people walking can't be heard clearly, but it will definitely be there."

Two hundred cavalry! And infantry!

The first time before, only two hundred imperial officers and soldiers came, including only a few dozen cavalry. They defeated the enemy unexpectedly, and the Li family won the victory.

Now, do they still have the strength to fight?

"Act as planned!" In the end, it was Patriarch Li who reacted first and gave the order in a crackling voice.

With this sound as the center, the gongs of the ancestral hall were struck with the greatest continuous sound. Along with the harsh sound of the gongs, hurried footsteps began to sound from the center of the village to the wall, and the bright fire was blown away. It lit up and illuminated the dim sky.

Young men carrying various weapons began to gather and quickly hid in hiding places.

Close to the wall, the slender bamboo poles were pressed as low as possible, and the ends were tightly tied with sacks and straw ropes. The people next to them were paying close attention.

On the earthen wall in front, there are low-lying people carrying defense tools such as large iron pots, bathtubs, and clay pots. There is also a door panel on top, with only one head exposed to look ahead.

Among them, there was even an old Uncle Zhong. He couldn't care less about his rusticity and embarrassment at the moment. He kept listening to the sound and calculated in his mind, "The enemy has appeared in front, two miles away."

In the silence, everyone could even hear the sound of themselves swallowing saliva, but they did not move.

"One mile, the enemy is visible. The cavalry goes first, about two hundred horsemen, followed by the infantry, with the camp flag, and more than five hundred infantry."

Li Xiaohan's heart sank.

"Fifty feet, prepare, be careful of enemy archers."

Old Uncle Zhong's voice began to be lowered, but it was like thunder in everyone's hearts.

"Forty feet."

Old Uncle Zhong saw that the cavalry in front actually stopped and spread out on both sides. The infantry stepped out from the center and prepared to charge. His face became darker and harder to distinguish in the afterglow: This showed that the enemy was well prepared and knew that the Li family had Panjiao. Alcohol and other things that can frighten horses have changed the traditional tradition of cavalry charging first.

"Thirty feet, shrink."

Following this order, everyone lying on the earth wall made a turtle shape and retracted their heads into the iron pot, large tub, and bathtub, leaving only their hands tightly for support.

Outside the earthen wall, a row of feather arrows were shot out in succession, rising into the air and then accelerating to fall. They landed on the bed board, some of which penetrated the bed board, and then hit the iron pot, the bathtub, and the earthen pottery jar. There are sporadic different sounds.

After two rounds, there were no more arrows. Old Uncle Zhong took the lead to lift the lid and stood up: Hey, these defeated generals don't have many arrows, so they probably have to save some to escape, but they still look down on their muddy legs. son.

"Shoot!" Old Uncle Zhong shouted. Although this battlefield is small, it is still a matter of life and death, and because it is simple, there is no room for any mistakes.

Behind Old Uncle Zhong, the bent bamboo that had been pressed into a bow shape was suddenly released, and the linen bags at the ends of the bamboo branches were lifted high, thrown, and then fell in the air.

After one round, the thin bamboo branches were quickly pulled back by the straw rope tied at the end, and then tied to the sack again and launched.

Red pepper dust fell in the air, full of the pungent smell of pepper, which made the imperial troops who had never been exposed to these things very uncomfortable.

The leader on the horse frowned, very impatiently, as if he was chasing away annoying mosquitoes.

However, although mosquitoes are annoying, they are not fatal. The leader sneered slightly. He had heard about the methods of the Li family in Pingshan Village. The only fatal thing was the alcohol that quickly ignited.

As for these paprika, endure it for a moment and charge in. Who can be hindered by this little trouble when the flesh and blood are being slaughtered.

"Spread out and charge horizontally."

Sharp whistles sounded continuously, the flags changed formations, and soldiers began to spread out along the horizontal lines of the two wings.

As long as they don't go straight into the alley like the team of idiots before, and end up trampling themselves to death in a hurry in the fire, the stupid people of the Li family will not be vulnerable at all.

As for the earthen wall, hahaha, they had never seen such a simple earthen wall when they attacked the city. They were just playing in the mud. There is no need to use siege equipment at all, just charge a little and jump directly.

The leader curled his lips slightly, raised his right hand, and the dust fell to the ground. The impact gradually diminished, and the war horses began to get used to the smell of paprika and prepared to charge.

At this moment, before his raised right hand had time to wave down, and before he could even retract the curve of his mouth, he saw a loud "bang" in front of him, and dust and smoke were everywhere.

A big pit fell directly into the charging infantry, and the soldiers fell straight down like dumplings.

Instantly, wailing broke out.

Think about it, since a pit has been dug, there is no reason why there should not be sharp weapons to hurt people at the bottom of the pit.

After a while, the team stopped, and the leader discovered that this was more than just a big pit. Since the big city had a moat, the Li family dug a moat for themselves.

The corners of the leader's mouth began to tighten, but it didn't matter, it was just a small trench, and they could afford some losses, "Keep moving forward!"

As long as Li Xiaohan is taken away, all the infantry here will be worthwhile - they were originally reserved to break up the rear, but they were just left here a little earlier.

Just like that, the soldiers who continued to advance continued to fall one after another. These traps were actually very delicately arranged. They were supported by driftwood out of thin air. A small number of people would not notice it, but a large number of people would not be able to support it until they could not hold it up in an instant. fall down.

The cavalry behind them could not help but whisper, "Is this Pingshan villager born in the year of the rat?"

Only mice can dig holes one after another like this, and accidentally step into a ditch.

Fortunately, there was only a distance of twenty to thirty feet. In order to avoid falling in again, the charging speed had to be slowed down, and the soldiers began to advance cautiously.

Sure enough, although it was slower, it effectively avoided the trap and quickly arrived under the earth wall.

The earthen wall is not high, and an adult man can basically climb up it by borrowing force - provided that he can borrow force.

On the earth wall, under the mess of iron pots and wooden barrels, a group of farmers appeared out of thin air, wielding wood choppers. Taking advantage of the high position of the earth wall, they could not be too accurate when chopping hands or injuring people.

The initial feather arrow did not kill these people. The leader finally became impatient, raised his hand and waved his arrows lightly.

With the sound of arrows piercing flesh, the Pingshan villagers on the earthen wall fell one after another - there was no more skill to borrow. In the face of a real fight, the villagers wielding woodcutter were no match for the regular army after all.

"Execute the second plan!" Patriarch Li's eyes turned red and he shouted at the top of his lungs, "If you sign for a long time, leave, if you sign for a short time, stay!"

Following this order, in Pingshan Village, in addition to the villagers who were still fighting on the earth wall, the villagers who had previously spread pepper powder began to jump out.

Pingshan Village is built on the mountain. The earthen wall is finally connected to the back mountain. The last way out is to abandon the village and flee, go straight to the back mountain and go deep into the mountains.

"Clan leader, Xiaohan, hurry up." The leader shouted urgently, "Hurry up, this is the last chance."

"I won't leave. I am the leader of the Li clan. There are still people fighting for life and death. I can't leave first."

"Clan leader!" the visitor shouted, then turned to Li Xiaohan, "Xiaohan."

Li Xiaohan did not draw lots that day, but everyone agreed that she had a long-term draw. This unexplained privilege was recognized by everyone.

But at this moment, Li Xiaohan had no intention of retreating.

"I can't leave either." Li Xiaohan's voice was dry but firm. "If I leave, the people in the court will get nothing. I'm afraid they will set fire to the mountain and no one will be able to escape."

Sometimes sunk costs can make people crazy. The imperial army took a detour here, which wasted time to escape. If they can't get anything, they can watch them escape in front of their eyes, going crazy and burning down villages. , it is possible to go crazy and burn mountains.

In the rolling mountains behind them, the Li family was not the only one hiding.

She can't escape. She can't escape!

Although he had been preparing at the beginning, the end result was that he gave up the opportunity to escape and survive again and again.

I don't know whether fate is mocking someone, or whether fate is telling you that you can't escape.

At this time, outside the earthen wall, perhaps the enemy troops of the imperial court also knew that they were preparing to escape, and the offensive became more fierce. As if in response to Li Xiaohan's words, someone outside the wall shouted, "Miss Li, we just want to ask you to come."

"I will follow the people of the imperial court. I will be useful to them. They will not kill me." At this moment, Li Xiaohan's voice was calm and calm, as if he was talking about ordinary things.

"Xiaohan..." Patriarch Li looked at Li Xiaohan, then at Old Uncle Zhong and Qingsong who had returned to Li Xiaohan, knowing that what Li Xiaohan said was probably the truth.

However, just like this, a promising junior in the clan has to be sacrificed.

A family of people, one person.

Patriarch Li's heart was in a mess. After being the patriarch for so many years, Patriarch Li had never been as hesitant and anxious as he was at this moment.

Perhaps it would be best to flee as a family from the very beginning, without having to make this difficult choice of one or the other.

But who wants to give up their home without giving it a try?

Moreover, there was no bloody pain for the enemy, no claws were used to hurt people, and the tribesmen who could only flee would only be wiped out by the enemy together with the young and weak.

To get to this point, they have tried their best every step of the way.

Failure is not their fault, it is fate after all.

In just a short moment, thousands of thoughts flashed through Chief Li's mind, which finally turned into a deep roar, "Retreat! In the name of the leader, I order the Li clan members who hold short-term contracts that day to retreat!"

"Second plan, fire!"

As Patriarch Li's shrill and hoarse words fell, in the village, some tribesmen smashed the wine jars beside the earthen wall, lit torches, and using alcohol as a cue, two lines of fire were quickly formed along the wall, leaving only one line in the middle. The foot-long gap was also filled with flammable firewood - the last alcohol, except for a small amount reserved for medical purposes, was used as the last line of defense.

This wall of fire is not to take the enemy's life, but to block the enemy's pursuit and delay as much time as possible for the retreating tribesmen.

The moment the fire broke out, the Li clan members stopped talking nonsense and ran towards the back mountain with tears in their eyes.

On the city wall, there are still people making the final fight.

Long term stay, short term return.

The fate has been decided by drawing lots that day, and everyone has their own destination.

After this wall of fire burned up, the officers and soldiers of the court outside finally reacted.

"Chase!"

The leaders of the imperial court finally became anxious and let go of the airs they had been holding on: If Li Xiaohan was allowed to escape with this wall of fire, they would really gain nothing and it would become a joke.

The fighting on the earthen wall became more intense. The number of people in Pingshan Village was getting smaller and weaker, but they still persisted desperately. The cavalry who had been waiting outside also began to prepare to charge - without the pepper offensive, Pingshan Village could not really hollow out this area. Now there is no obstacle to the cavalry.

"General, you are looking for me, why bother chasing me." Li Xiaohan quickly climbed up the earth city wall from the only gap, and beside her, old Uncle Zhong held the handle of the knife in his hand, following closely. beside.

"Miss Li? Li Xiaohan?" The leader unfolded a scroll from his arms, and inside was a scroll. He stared at the scroll and Li Xiaohan back and forth for a moment, "It's really difficult to see Miss Li."

"Yes, it's me." Li Xiaohan was not surprised by the portrait. People in Dingcheng basically knew what she looked like. No matter what method the court used, since they had previously been interested in the secret recipe, there was no need to prepare in advance. What a strange thing. What matters now is other things. "You order your men to stop and let the Li clan go. I will go with you."

"Miss Li, you're kidding me. If I don't stop now, you still have to follow me." Just stop when you say you should. Then what was the beating back and forth before? "Why, if I don't stop, you let me Take away a body?"

"If Miss Li has such determination, I respect Miss Li very much." The leader mocked.

"I'm not stupid. Why should I die if I can live? Don't worry, general. Even if I leave with you, I promise to live well and make it to the capital."

This general doesn't play his cards according to common sense, but there are hundreds of kinds of people, and some people just can't stand it.

"It's just that when we get to the capital, the general thinks what I will do. It's worth taking you all the way to the capital. I believe that I can still be of some use. You say I'll have a few words with the Holy One and bargain a bit, Your Majesty. Can you agree to some of my requests? It doesn't matter if you don't agree at the moment. You may not know if I will come up with other secret recipes in the future. When the time comes, the general must hold on."

"In a word, General, stop. I promise not to target you in the future. You and I could have won together, couldn't we?"

"Don't offend me to death. I will work hard to make you more honorable. The general is a smart man and knows what is best."

The person on the other side was silent for a moment, and finally ordered angrily, "Stop!"

He didn't dare to bet. They lost the battle in Dingcheng very thoroughly, and they will definitely be held accountable after they return. And he took the order to rob Li Xiaohan and go back, just because the useful allicin, panax notoginseng, hemostatic powder and alcohol in Dingcheng were all made by Li Xiaohan, hoping to use this to alleviate His Majesty's anger a little. Back in the capital, he, a defeated general, could not avenge Li Xiaohan.

"Let's go." As soon as the enemy stopped, Li Xiaohan immediately shouted to the remaining tribesmen.

At this moment, the clansman who was prepared to die realized that he might survive.

"Xiaohan..." Some tribesmen struggled to say what they wanted to say.

"Don't worry about me, I won't die. Leave quickly!" Li Xiaohan scolded.

The remaining tribesmen said nothing and supported each other to escape from the only gap that was not on fire.

"Miss Li, I remember I just said stop." The enemy was impatient.

"Why are you so anxious? You and I both know why we stopped." Li Xiaohan said, but he still wanted to jump out from outside the earthen wall. Seeing this, the enemy finally stopped urging.

However, when he walked to the wall, Li Xiaohan thought about it for a moment and acted very scared. He tried several times but still did not dare to jump off the wall.

With just this ink stain, another half-quarter of an hour passed.

The enemy general was very impatient and said, "Go and catch Miss Li."

"No need." Li Xiaohan refused, "Old Uncle Zhong, you go down first and pick me up."

Old Uncle Zhong didn't say anything. He jumped down first and then caught Li Xiaohan who jumped down from above.

"This is an old servant of mine. I can't trust your people. He came to the capital with me."

The enemy general stared at Old Uncle Zhong, from the knife in Old Uncle Zhong's hand to his slightly staggered feet - Old Uncle Zhong's originally unobvious lameness seemed to be a little unbearable, and he changed his center of gravity.

A semi-crippled man is not afraid even if he has better skills. The enemy general withdrew his scrutinizing gaze.

In the slow and delayed time, all the Li clan members on the earthen wall finally evacuated. The last person left, broke the wine jar, threw down the torch, and the fire walls on both sides formed a line.

This wall of fire blocked all the entrances and exits that could enter Pingshan Village from the front. The burning flames formed a protective circle. The enemy had no opening to attack, and those who remained had no way out.

The Li clan members who ran towards the back mountain seemed to feel something and turned back involuntarily.

"Run! Don't waste time!"

There was a nasal tone in the low growl.

=== Chapter === 198

The raging fire burned more and more intensely, turning half of the sky red. The small village was surrounded by more than half a ring of fire, which looked particularly tragic.

At the back mountain, Qingsong, who had been retreating with the villagers, quietly broke away from the group and hid in the hidden tree canopy. The firelight jumping not far away reflected in his pupils, and the expression on Qingsong's tense face was dark and unreadable.

The three of them have preset thousands of situations, and this is one of them.

"Qingsong, you can't come with us. Uncle Zhong is old and has injured his leg, so he is not much of a threat to others. But you are different. You look like a young and strong warrior at first glance. They will not easily I asked you to follow me. Even if you follow me, it is very likely that something will happen to you along the way."

"Miss Li, the second young master ordered me to..."

"I have something I want you to do. Since I am worthy of being kidnapped by the imperial court in every possible way, I am also worthy of being rescued. After the prince wins, the second young master will definitely send someone to rescue me. What you have to do is Follow us secretly and leave clues for your second son."

"You are more useful in the dark. The sooner Second Young Master can follow the clues you left to find me, the greater the chance of my rescue."

Thinking of this, Qingsong's eyes finally rolled slightly. The plan was done. He had to hide it well and follow this group of people.

In front, Li Xiaohan saw that the people behind him had retreated, so he no longer pretended to delay, and smoothly walked around the scattered corpses and messy traps.

Now is the time for cooperation, so don't step on the enemy's bottom line and rub back and forth.

Sure enough, when he saw Li Xiaohan striding over, the enemy general's face improved a little, and he waved his hand to ask his troops to reorganize their troops - they had lost to King Ding, and were now retreating for their lives. Time was very tight, so they could agree to Li Xiaohan's request. The conditions are also because they can't delay any longer.

"I wonder what you call the general?" Li Xiaohan tried to ignore the casualties and the tense atmosphere here, trying to ease the atmosphere and asked.

"Miss Li, there's no need to delay, let's go." The enemy didn't appreciate it.

"In that case, please give me two horses, general." Li Xiaohan was not annoyed at all and continued, "General, why do you think so? When we go to the capital, we will cooperate with each other rather than hate each other. Better, the general must understand this truth. I asked for the title, just to express my goodwill first, hoping to ease the relationship between us."

Perhaps he was moved by Li Xiaohan's words. Although the enemy general did not name his name, he did not refuse Li Xiaohan's request and quickly freed up two war horses.

Li Xiaohan held on to the saddle and thought about how he should behave: should he behave like he was not very skilled in riding a horse and paralyze the enemy along the way; or should he behave better and relax the relationship between the two parties so that the enemy could relax their vigilance?

The problem is, I don't know if the enemy has collected information about her riding horses, so it's difficult to grasp this level.

While he was thinking quickly in his mind, Li Xiaohan's face showed a very calm expression, and there was no trace of anything wrong.

Forget it, it's already reached this level, and I'm not completely sure. Don't make it self-defeating. If it is exposed, all the previous preparations will be in vain. The days are long, and I will slowly look for opportunities in the future. Li Xiaohan took advantage of his strength, raised his legs and mounted his horse neatly.

"withdraw troops."

The team began to integrate and take action.

What Li Xiaohan didn't expect was that this time the cavalry didn't wait for the infantry following to be integrated and started to advance directly.

Li Xiaohan looked reluctant and looked back after a while, actually observing the situation of the infantry behind him.

After walking two miles, the infantry behind them was no longer visible, but the team showed no intention of stopping and waiting. Li Xiaohan further confirmed that they had given up following the infantry and directly relied on the speed advantage of the cavalry to escape back to the capital.

It's a bit troublesome. In this era of cold weapons, pure cavalry is the undoubted king of speed.

Can Zhang Fu and the others catch up with this?

Two days later.

The setting sun was setting in the west, and the golden afterglow was slanting on the earth. Except for the sound of horse hooves, the world was so silent that it seemed like they were the only ones left running for their lives.

In fact, it is easy to understand. First, they avoid crowds in order to hide their whereabouts and run for their lives. Second, ordinary civilians will just stay away from this group of people when they encounter them.

"Hey. Stop."

When they came to a slope, the galloping horse team stopped. After observing the surroundings, the leader of the team in front issued an order.

The cavalry surrounding Li Xiaohan dispersed. Some began to inspect the surrounding environment, and some began to set up camp. Li Xiaohan, who had been surrounded by the people, was finally able to see the surrounding environment clearly.

Holding Old Uncle Zhong's hand with difficulty, Li Xiaohan slowly moved off the horse.

I really moved little by little, and it felt like my whole body was falling apart, and there was a burning pain.

Ever since he was able to ride a horse, Li Xiaohan had been interested in training his riding skills, thinking that although it was not very good, it should not be bad at all.

Now it seems that I really think highly of myself.

Compared with these cavalry, Li Xiaohan felt that his riding skills were like a child playing with mud. Previously, he thought that he would cooperate and build a good relationship to avoid suffering. Now it seems that he can do his best. It took all Li Xiaohan's energy to follow the team closely without having to be carried like a sack on the backs of other people's horses.

Why have I always insisted on riding a horse independently? Maybe it's because I can't accept the self-respect of being carried along without the ability to move at all, or maybe it's because of my freedom. The will and hope to escape. Even though it seemed that, on her own, this hope was weak.

In fact, Li Xiaohan looked down on herself, even though she felt that she was exhausted and falling apart, and had reached her limit. But for the officers and soldiers of the imperial court, she is not picky and does not look for any Yao'ezi, and can support them until now, which is actually an excellent cooperation.

They were originally defeated people, hoping to take Li Xiaohan back and hand over the secret recipe to atone for their sins, so they really couldn't force Li Xiaohan too much. Li Xiaohan was willing to cooperate, and they were also willing to provide more convenience.

For example, at this moment, with the help of old Uncle Zhong, Li Xiaohan finally got off his horse and rested for half a quarter of an hour. When Li Xiaohan asked for convenience, although someone was sent to follow him, he still got permission.

As the only follower brought by Li Xiaohan, Old Uncle Zhong was naturally always around to protect him.

While walking in the bushy wilderness, Li Xiaohan quickly scanned the surrounding environment with the corner of his eyes: The place they chose to camp at this moment was an unknown wild slope. It should not be under the jurisdiction of Dingcheng, otherwise these imperial soldiers You don't have to hide it, just stay at the inn.

After observing the surrounding environment, I pretended to look for a place casually, but in fact I was observing whether there were any human traces here.

I wonder if Qingsong has followed? Did Qingsong find the mark they left? Has Qingsong contacted anyone who came to the rescue?

"Miss Li, it's okay. Don't go too far. It's dangerous in the wilderness." Old Uncle Zhong next to him said the secret code for the appointment in advance.

Li Xiaohan breathed a sigh of relief, found a secluded place, excused himself to kill a while, and gave old Uncle Zhong enough time before leaving amid the impatient urging of his followers.

When they returned, the tent had been set up, and Li Xiaohan and Old Uncle Zhong were placed in a square tent in the middle. Such a good location naturally prevented them from escaping.

The atmosphere in the team was not good. Li Xiaohan observed the largest camp out of the corner of his eye. The people coming in and out looked very bad. This was normal. They already knew that the imperial court had been defeated. Now they were on their way and the news was closed. , and the outside world is constantly changing, and people who fail always think a lot.

Li Xiaohan finished the meal quietly, and with a smile on his face, he asked for nothing. He climbed into a corner of the tent, rolled up his clothes tightly, closed his eyes and started to sleep. If he couldn't sleep, he should close his eyes to rest.

After half a stick of incense, Old Uncle Zhong came in and gently handed Li Xiaohan a blanket.

"Where did it come from?" Li Xiaohan opened his eyes, took the blanket, and rolled himself into a ball without disdain at all.

Old Uncle Zhong was used to seeing Li Xiaohan's easy operation, "I think their conditions are quite good, so I asked them for it."

"Are these conditions pretty good?" Li Xiaohan asked strangely.

"After all, we are the capital's army. We don't have to cover the sky and the ground. We can set up camp and have hot food and hot soup. This is an excellent condition." Old Uncle Zhong said with envy, but he gently pointed to the outside of the tent, implying that someone was monitoring outside.

"What if the conditions are poor?" Li Xiaohan frowned slightly, then relaxed his brows, and asked cooperatively as if he was very interested.

"It's hard to say. It's probably just a piece of hard cooking cake and a mouthful of cold water. Just deal with it on the horse's belly in the middle of the night so as not to freeze to death." Old Uncle Zhong said vaguely, but there was a trace of ridicule at the corner of his mouth - a real emergency march, It's always about sacrificing everything in exchange for time.

They haven't left Ding City yet, and they actually have the leisure to set up camp before sunset. If it were them, they would change horses but not people. They would tie Li Xiaohan out of Ding City day and night without giving away the last bargaining chip. When I return to the capital, I cannot relax for a moment.

A bunch of pampered trash. Old Uncle Zhong made a conclusion in his heart.

However, the enemy's laxity was a good opportunity for them. Old Uncle Zhong breathed a sigh of relief again - the second young master sent them to Miss Li. Although in the end it was Miss Li who decided to go with the people from the court, but The second young master will never be happy that they did the job like this.

"Then it's really settled now. Speaking of which, I have to be grateful for this, otherwise I really wouldn't be able to endure it." Li Xiaohan smiled and followed the words of old Uncle Zhong.

"That's not the truth. Miss Li, go to sleep, we have to go on a journey tomorrow."

The two of them answered one after another, and soon there was no sound.

A quarter of an hour later, the gentle footsteps of guards sounded outside the tent, confirming that the person was gone. Li Xiaohan and Old Uncle Zhong gently opened their eyes, looked at each other in tacit understanding, and prepared to exchange what they had learned today.

Old Uncle Zhong lowered his voice and said, "We found the mark. Go to bed first and start working in the middle of the night."

"So fast?!" Li Xiaohan lowered his voice and looked surprised.

Although he dared to sacrifice his life as a hostage, it was deduced that after King Ding returned, the palace would be willing and able to dispatch people to rescue him. Regardless of whether it is public or private, Zhang Fu will be the most suitable candidate.

However, according to Li Xiaohan's estimation, five or six days was not considered fast, and seven or eight days was not considered slow. There were too many things to deal with after the city defense battle, and she really didn't know where she could rank them.

But now, it's only the evening of the third day, and rescue has already caught up.

"Yes, tonight." Old Uncle Zhong said. He didn't expect it, but he confirmed again and again that the mark left behind was indeed correct tonight.

Think about it, if you want to blame us, we should blame our army for being too strong and the enemy for being too useless.

"Okay." Since Old Uncle Zhong said this, Li Xiaohan had no doubts anymore, so he closed his eyes and went to sleep, preparing to recuperate, at least not to hold him back.

The tent fell silent again.

The nights are getting colder, the autumn chill is sharp, the moonlight is cold, and the unknown insects chirping up and down, making the night watchers feel even more sleepy.

"Cuckoo." Three night owls called in the distance. The night watchman managed to cheer up and scanned the surroundings vigilantly.

The bright yellow bonfire danced, nothing was abnormal, I yawned, and my heavy eyelids closed again.

"Cuckoo."

"What a broken bird, it's screaming in the middle of the night." With misty eyes, he looked around casually and found nothing unusual. He cursed a few words in a low voice and fell asleep again.

"Cuckoo."

No one woke up again.

In this extremely tired sleep, Li Xiaohan was poked and quickly woke up.

There were only sporadic sounds in the dark night, and the dim light of the campfire filtered through the door curtain. Old Uncle Zhong had already sat up in the tent. Li Xiaohan gently removed the blanket on his body, tied the soles of his shoes, and gently moved his hands and feet.

A quarter of an hour after the three bird calls, Old Uncle Zhong knocked out the guard beside the tent with his light sword, and Li Xiaohan followed lightly on tiptoes.

The night was desolate, but Li Xiaohan felt hot in his heart, and every step was like walking on a tightrope.

Seeing the heavy shadows of the vegetation ahead, and the tents behind him getting further and further away, with victory in sight, he suddenly shouted, "Who is it?!"

The sleeping camp was awakened, with chaotic sounds everywhere, and the soldiers quickly reacted and raised their swords.

"Run." Old Uncle Zhong shouted, and the sharp blade flashed a stream of light in the dark night.

Li Xiaohan subconsciously ran away. The cold wind in the middle of the night rushed towards her face with dew and moisture. She opened her eyes hard and tried hard to see the road ahead clearly.

But no, there were no instructions. The further we went, the thicker the darkness became. We couldn't see where we were coming from or where we were heading. run

The running speed has not slowed down, but the heartbeat is getting more and more chaotic.

At this moment, a bright yellow torch suddenly lit up in front, and a hole was torn into the dark night. My mind seemed to go white for a moment, and then I saw the light and shadow in front of me clearly. There was a group of people, and only one person was left. , rushing towards oneself.

The arrows around him were cracking the air and piercing the silk, and the pursuers behind him were chasing after him. He could only hear his own heartbeat and breathing, getting faster and louder.

The footsteps become heavier and heavier, and the soul is extremely light. Every step seems to be running towards freedom and destiny.

"Catch her!" came an angry roar from behind.

The feather arrow behind him broke through the air and rushed straight to the back of his head. The threat of death kissed his heels, but he accidentally stepped on a piece of gravel under his feet, and the last one staggered.

Oops!

Li Xiaohan was startled, but he couldn't control himself and fell forward.

She was pulled into a tight hug.

Li Xiaohan has always felt that she is definitely not the kind of weak Liu Fufeng. Through her diet and exercise in the past few years, her weight and height are even comparable to those of a man of fifteen or sixteen of the same age.

On the contrary, in her impression, Zhang Fu looked and felt like a elegant, elegant, weak and noble young man.

But now that she was being held in his arms, Zhang Fu immediately wrapped his arms around her waist. She felt that the other person's hands were like iron welding. Before she could react, she was easily lifted up, with her toes slightly off the ground. Changed body position eighty degrees.

The tip of his nose rubbed against the other party's chest, and there was an indescribable smell mixed with blood, sweat, and various woody medicinal materials. What he saw, felt, and heard in front of him was the ups and downs of the other party's heart. , urgent and fast, strong and powerful.

I don't seem to be as strong as I think, and the other person doesn't seem to be as weak as I think.

Li Xiaohan was stunned for a moment, feeling confused as if his knowledge had been broken.

Later, he realized that in their current posture, Zhang Fu had replaced himself. Now he was facing the enemy with his back to protect himself in his arms.

Your front, back, left, and right are safe.

But Zhang Fu is probably unsafe.

Li Xiaohan only hated that he reacted too slowly. He immediately wanted to stand up and pulled Zhang Fu to leave.

I can't pull it, I can't break it free.

"It's okay, it's safe now."

Low words rang in my ears.

Li Xiaohan couldn't see ahead, but it seemed that there was no sound of arrows piercing the air, only the sound of swords clashing.

The two sides were at war. Relatively speaking, she is indeed safer now than just now.

However, Li Xiaohan was still a little uneasy. He struggled slightly, but felt that the person opposite him slowly lowered his body, bent his waist, turned his neck to one side, and rested his head on one side of his shoulder. , rub it gently and slowly a few times.

She was still being held in his arms, but through the gap on Zhang Fu's shoulders, Li Xiaohan finally saw the front clearly: In the dark night, the bonfire illuminated, and the two sides were still fighting with flesh and blood; it seemed that he couldn't see the front, he only felt a little The hot breath gradually amplified in her mind.

At this moment, Li Xiaohan thought of his little pony. When it was tired, happy, or acting coquettishly, it would lower its long and proud head, gently rub its hand, and beg. Be comforted and be rewarded.

It seems to be saying, give me a hug.

Li Xiaohan slowly stretched out his hand and hugged the person opposite him.

Between life and death, someone is trembling slightly.

I couldn't tell who was scared and who was comforting whom.

The battle ended not too slowly. After all, the biggest target, Li Xiaohan, had already run away. Seeing that he could not get it back, the people in the court had no intention of fighting. They did not want to lose their lives here, so they fought while fighting. They retreated and hid in the darkness.

The people brought by Zhang Fu first experienced the battle to seize the city, and then chased people day and night. It was already the end of Qianqiong. Li Xiaohan had rescued them, so naturally they would not pursue the poor bandits again. Enter the forest.

The battle was over, and Li Xiaohan and Zhang Fu quickly regained their senses. The two of them were determined people, but their impatience at that moment was quickly covered up.

"Camp where you are and rest, and then set off back at dawn." Zhang Fu ordered.

The place has been chosen, the bonfire has been lit, and the tent has been set up. When the night has passed, the day has passed, and the sun has not yet risen, there is no more suitable place than this.

As for dead people, even Li Xiaohan is almost numb and used to it now. In troubled times, dead people are not terrible. What is terrible is that it is himself who dies.

The bonfire with new firewood burned warmer and brighter. Li Xiaohan held a piece of dry wood and carefully fiddled with the firewood underneath.

"You came in such a hurry, did you have to travel all night?" Li Xiaohan seemed to be chatting with a smile.

Thinking of what old Uncle Zhong said: When you are really on the march, you will probably need a piece of hard cooking cake and a mouthful of cold water to deal with it in the horse's belly in the middle of the night so as not to freeze to death.

"It's okay, I'm in a hurry, I'm used to it." Zhang Fu replied lightly, as if it was just a normal thing.

Li Xiaohan naturally knew that this was not an ordinary thing. She had discussed it with Old Uncle Zhong and expected that the rescue would arrive in three to five days at the earliest. It was only the evening of the third day. Apparently, as soon as Zhang Fu received the news, he led his people on the road day and night.

No, it's very possible that Qingsong didn't have time to send the news back to Dingcheng, and Zhang Fu met him on the way here, otherwise the time wouldn't match up at all.

Will this delay his affairs?

After all, the prince had just returned to Dingcheng, and he didn't know how the battle with the imperial army was going. Even if the prince won, there were still too many things to deal with, so Zhang Fu led his troops out rashly.

He is only responsible for coordinating military supplies in logistics, not a general leading troops on the front lines...

"open…"

Li Xiaohan turned his head and was about to ask clearly, but saw that Zhang Fu's eyes had been closed and his head was moving, obviously he was very sleepy.

The bright yellow bonfire reflected light and shadow, light and dark. The contrast showed that the shadows under his eyes were particularly thick, his iliac bones were prominent, and his beard was unkempt.

Very embarrassed and pitiful.

Pity and love.

Li Xiaohan quietly moved over and gently moved Zhang Fu's head, leaning lightly on his shoulder. Sure enough, the other party subconsciously gradually shifted his weight and found the most comfortable position.

The flames jumped in front, and occasionally the firewood made a crisp sound after burning, and then returned to silence.

All concerns and questions no longer need to be asked. The noisy people around him have faded into nothingness, leaving only the small space around him and the person beside him.

At this moment, time stretches infinitely, and all uneasiness, anxiety, and calculations return to tranquility.

=== Chapter === 199

Five days later, Zhang Fu sent Li Xiaohan back to Pingshan Village.

In fact, if we follow the normal marching speed, we can go earlier.

But perhaps everyone was tired after marching in a hurry, so Zhang Fu ordered them to walk slowly.

Li Xiaohan vaguely felt that it was because of him, but he couldn't say it directly. After Zhang Fu revealed that the overall situation of the city had been decided, and they had asked for permission before setting off, and allowed enough time, Li Xiaohan simply acquiesced. .

Even in order to avoid worrying Li Xiandong, Wang and others, Zhang Fu sent someone to go back quickly to inform Li Xiaohan that he was safe.

So, when Li Xiaohan returned to Pingshan Village, what he saw was this scene:

The traces of the burned-out earthen wall at that time are still there, and now they have been repaired and replaced with new earthen bricks, which are mottled, just like these villagers who repaired themselves over and over again after the disaster;

The trap in front of the city wall was once again covered with messy fallen branches and leaves and loose soil. You can still see it if you look closely, but the meaning of the trap has changed from disguise to I'm not easy to mess with. Don't mess with me. .

Only the densely packed crowd of people standing on the earthen wall, suppressing excitement and anxiety, were still the same familiar faces as before.

As long as people are still there, everything is worth it.

The two stopped their horses at the entrance of the village. After all, the current situation in Pingshan Village made it difficult to find a suitable road for the large group of people to enter. Once inside, there is no room for so many people.

If they didn't go back to Fucheng directly, it would only be more than an hour's journey for them.

Besides, although it would have no effect if he asked for instructions earlier, King Ding has returned to the city and has just won the battle. Think about how many things are waiting to be dealt with back home.

This is the same as asking for leave. If the leader approves the leave, it only means that the departure is approved, but the work that is yours is still yours. It will only be more, not less, waiting for you to come back to deal with it.

Zhang Fu spoke first, pretending to be relaxed, "When we reach the entrance of the village, I won't go in."

Without waiting for Li Xiaohan to answer, he warned again: "Although the prince has won the battle, there is no guarantee that no one from the imperial court will sneak into Dingcheng. I am most afraid that they will do it secretly. Although you have no power in the army, Real power, but you hold the secret recipe, which is more important to the court than ordinary generals. If you go to Fucheng at this time, it is better to stay in Pingshan Village for safety. I have written in advance and obtained the prince's approval. During this period, it will be safe. Send a team of guards to guard here. Ordinary stragglers can't attack."

"Nowadays, Dingcheng is in dire straits and is waiting to be revitalized. With your clansmen in Pingshan Village as your backing and support, you will be more successful than going to Fucheng to hold an empty position."

The noble young master who used to be taciturn now tells everything in detail, not daring to leave anything out for fear of making another mistake.

The tempering of war and power gave his whole person an indescribable look. His face, which had been washed away from the blood and dust, was clean, steady, and meticulous, which made people feel a little dazed.

It's just a pity that even the stubble has been shaved off.

Li Xiaohan looked at this face and felt a little distracted. He almost couldn't remember what the noble, arrogant and distant Zhang Fu looked like when he first met him.

Speaking of which, everyone was together all the way back, but Zhang Fu's stubble disappeared just after washing up the next morning.

I didn't see him bringing any razors. Could it be that he shaved with his own thin sword? Did you shave it yourself or did you ask someone to help you shave it?

I probably shaved it myself.

Li Xiaohan knew that Zhang Fu would not expose his neck to anyone's sharp blade without any precautions, even personal guards like Qingsong.

Li Xiaohan imagined Zhang Fu shaving his beard while taking photos by the water.

What a pity!

Didn't see it with my own eyes.

Moreover, although it is not as good-looking as a beard, having stubble does have a different flavor. More mature, rougher, and wilder.

And it seems that he is not far different from his age in the previous life, otherwise he would always feel guilty about eating young grass.

"What's wrong?" Zhang Fu quickly noticed Li Xiaohan's distraction, stopped and asked with worry and surprise.

Could it be that you can't stand the way he is now?

Or were you frightened by his unshaven appearance earlier?

Zhang Fu felt a little uneasy in his heart. Compared with the boys and girls who had just reached the age of hairpins and crowned hairpins, he seemed to be a few years older.

I couldn't tell that I was so pampered before, but these days I was so busy and chaotic that I didn't pay attention. I even forgot to shave my beard, which made me look much older.

If he were in the army, this would be nothing at all. He is already the most tidy and organized group of people in the army.

It's a pity, isn't it different now?

Regarding age, the two of them were a little worried for a moment, and the direction of their worries was completely different.

"Well, okay, I understand. I will stay in Pingshan Village well. You don't have to worry. Now it's too late for the imperial army to escape, so they won't come to trouble me again."

Li Xiaohan came back to his senses and said, "On the contrary, you should be more careful when you go back. Although the prince has agreed, be careful of villains. Previously, the clan also processed a lot of allicin, and there was also some Panax notoginseng styptic powder. There are enough spare points in it, most of them won't be used, so take them with you, they will definitely be used."

When it came to business, Li Xiaohan's mind started spinning quickly, "Don't refuse. You led troops to rescue me during the war, and now you are sending your family to Pingshan Village. There will always be some people who pick on you. We are now It can be considered as one, and picking your thorns is picking my thorns. Whether it is you or me, we hope that these medicines will have the greatest effect where they are needed most."

Although Li Xiaohan has not personally experienced ancient merit-based rewards, there is nothing new under the sun since ancient times. A company, a prince and a court are all a combination of interests. They are one body externally, but they have their own internal affairs. factional conflict.

General Zhang is one of the four generals under King Ding. If someone follows him, he will naturally be attacked by people with different positions. Zhang Fu was given important positions at a young age, which may have blocked the way of some people.

Although he came to save himself at this time, although he had received permission from the prince, there was no guarantee that no one would use this opportunity to attack Zhang Fu or General Zhang's line.

After successfully capturing the whole city and guarding the city, in order to boost the morale of the army, Xu Shi will soon reward them based on their merits. Li Xiaohan did not want himself and Zhang Fu to be squeezed out at this time.

"Sure." Zhang Fu almost immediately understood what Li Xiaohan was referring to and responded quickly.

After this battle, there were countless wounded soldiers, and the prince must have a plan to continue the war. Although the military supplies provided a fixed amount of medicine, the medicine from Pingshan Village was still the best of the best and was the best choice for all parties. Something to fight for.

Going back with the wound medicine at this time can just increase the leverage on your side.

After the two of them agreed, Li Xiaohan waved and asked someone to inform Patriarch Li to prepare the medicine. Since everyone in Pingshan Village moved back to the village from the mountains, they thought that with the village chief's stability and wisdom, they would naturally Will return the village's inventory to the village for safekeeping.

Sure enough, Patriarch Li on the wall quickly agreed and took people to prepare the medicine.

Zhang Fu continued: "I had a private meeting with the largest chamber of commerce in Qicheng before. Qicheng is rich but not strong. After this wave of wars, many of their wealthy businessmen will hoard supplies to prepare for war. Things, good medicine for wounds must be one of them. If merchants from all over the city come to you to buy goods in the future, don't worry, they are all good buyers that you like. "

Li Xiaohan nodded, "I understand. The war has begun. I am not good at civil and martial arts. The officialdom is turbulent. Apart from you, I don't have much contact with other officials. If not, I will plant three crops in Pingshan Village in the future. Qihe purifies allicin and supplies it to the military. They have found another way and may gain something."

Seeing that Li Xiaohan's direction was consistent with his own, Zhang Fu felt relieved, but he couldn't help but add some details, "After the rest, the prince will definitely send troops to the capital. I need to follow the army and not stay in Dingcheng. Your exclusive and important business is more important than ever." If you are big, you will inevitably attract covetous attention from many parties. You cannot lose your official status. I will find opportunities to mention it to the prince from time to time. Medicine is very professional and human life is sensitive. If you encounter trouble, I will also You can go to Renhetang for help."

"I know." Li Xiaohan nodded, indicating that he had remembered it, but mentioned another thing, "Dr. Zhang was here before, and I had exchanged some surgical treatment methods with him. Dr. Zhang is... He is a rare medical genius. In the future, the prince will fight all the way, so you'd better keep him by your side."

Li Xiaohan didn't know how to remind Zhang Fu that your father would risk his life to save the prince in the first battle in the capital.

She couldn't say it, and it was useless to say it. Now everyone was tied to this huge rolling chariot. Their interests were related, their lives were connected, and they couldn't escape.

All Li Xiaohan could do was to try his best to tell Dr. Zhang some of the surgical concepts of later generations, and Dr. Zhang, a medical maniac, would inevitably try them one by one in the war.

With advanced concept guidance and a large amount of practical proof, we hope to save General Zhang's life.

"I originally wanted to bring Dr. Zhang back to you, but he didn't know what to do before and was doing surgeries in the military camp every day." Zhang Fu said.

Now it seems that it was probably something Li Xiaohan said to Dr. Zhang that triggered his inspiration.

"How many lives can a good doctor like Dr. Zhang save on the battlefield? It's a waste to stay in a small mountain village. After this time, the court probably won't be able to organize a large army to attack Dingcheng. I'm safe here. . On the contrary, if you follow the army in the battle, you will be in danger."

The two of them each said their own things, and both felt that the other was very dangerous, so they couldn't help but speak in more detail.

I wish I could check each other's leaks and fill them in, and take this opportunity to fill up all the loopholes.

However, time flew by as if it had been stolen. Qingzhu reported carefully, "Second Young Master, everything is ready."

The words that reached his lips were abruptly taken back.

In fact, my memory is not bad. Many points I should pay attention to were mentioned on the road. Now I just say them again from another angle. After all, I don't know when the next meeting will be, or even whether I will live or die.

We are all smart people, and we also understand that no matter how much or carefully we consider, we cannot account for all accidents. When it comes to making a decision, all we can do is to protect ourselves and act according to circumstances.

No matter how much I say it, it's just because I can't let it go.

Li Xiaohan took a breath, and the early winter air was cool to the heart, making people sober. At this moment, she should say goodbye first, "Let's go. Take care of yourself."

"Okay." Zhang Fu seemed to want to pull out a comforting smile from the corner of his mouth, but gave up in the end.

There is a tiger in my heart, rushing left and right, trying to break out.

The prince already has two bases in Qicheng and Dingcheng, and the Zhang family has also made great contributions in these two battles. The next step is that the prince will target the capital, and no one will mention their family's surrender as a general again.

Although it is not the best time now, dawn is coming. There is no perfect opportunity, only what is in your hand is yours.

However, before the last moment, the outcome is really unpredictable. The battle for the throne has huge implications. Who knows whether the Zhang family will have the last laugh.

Desire and reason fight each other, and in the end they all recede like the tide, leaving only the hug at night and the shoulder to lean on at dawn.

Lost and found again, life or death is unpredictable.

After all, I have delusional thoughts and cannot control myself.

"I have something for you."

No one knows how much effort it took Zhang Fu to prepare for taking out this small wooden box from the close part of his chest.

"What is it?" Li Xiaohan took it with both hands and asked doubtfully.

"I'm leaving, you can look back later." Zhang Fu turned the horse's head and left as soon as he said so.

I can't tell whether it was a panicked escape or a final act of restraint.

The large group of cavalry followed closely behind, and the dust was flying.

Li Xiaohan watched the figure disappear in the dust and smoke, lowered his head and opened the wooden box.

The luxurious rosewood box contains a small wooden hairpin.

The wooden hairpin is made of ash wood. The carving is not complicated, it is simple and elegant, and the wood is moist and smooth.

Li Xiaohan smiled and gently inserted the wooden hairpin into his hair with his backhand.

The workmanship is good, no wonder the stubble is shaved so cleanly.

"Xiaohan, are you okay?"

Seeing Zhang Fu leading people away, Wang and Li Xiandong from Pingshan Village hurriedly ran out - it's not that they weren't anxious, but just seeing Li Xiaohan and Zhang Fu seeming to be talking about business, Li Xiandong and Wang could only suppress it. Don't bother yourself.

At this moment, Zhang Fu was gone, and Wang, Li Xiandong and others couldn't wait any longer.

Li Xiaoshuang couldn't walk fast, so Li Xiandong held her in his arms. While Mrs. Wang was panicking and asking questions, she kept groping Li Xiaohan's body with her hands, back and forth, left and right.

"Mom, I'm fine. They don't dare to hurt me." Li Xiaohan hugged Wang and comforted softly.

For safety reasons, Wang and Li Xiandong were on the mountain at the beginning, and Li Xiaohan's plan as a hostage was naturally not told to them in advance.

Wang and Li Xiandong waited eagerly for the large forces in the village to evacuate, but were told that Li Xiaohan had voluntarily followed the imperial army as a hostage.

At that moment, it was like falling into an abyss.

Didn't it mean that their daughter would be the safest if Old Uncle Zhong and Qingsong were guarding her?

Li Xiaohan's career is getting bigger and bigger, and his status is getting higher and higher, both within the clan and outside. Wang and Li Xiandong can no longer understand many of Li Xiaohan's decisions.

But this pair of parents who couldn't keep up with their daughter, simply and silently surrendered the right to be the master of the family to their daughter, and silently supported her daughter in everything she did.

I just hope that my daughter is safe and healthy.

But now, like all parents in the world, they suddenly realize that their children are still too young, ignorant, and have no sense of discretion in doing things!

"You stupid boy, how could you do this, how could you leave with the enemy like this? What if something happens! You have to worry about your father and me to death!"

Wang, who has always been weak and meek, finally confirmed that the eldest daughter in her arms was safe, and after reacting, she slapped Li Xiaohan hard on the back.

You know, many people in the village have beaten their children. When children are naughty and mischievous, they all believe that the stick will produce filial sons. Only Wang and Li Xiandong, because of their personalities and being the only daughters for many years, have never touched Li Xiaohan once.

It was rare for him to be beaten once, even as an adult, but Li Xiaohan was more moved than sad. He jumped up to avoid it and begged for mercy: "Mother, mother, I know I was wrong. Oops, mother, It hurts, I won't dare to do it anymore."

"Do you really know that you are wrong? You can't do this again!" Wang stopped her hand softly.

"I will never make such a decision again. I promise." Li Xiaohan raised his hand and swore, smiling flatteringly at Mr. Wang.

"You are very capable, and my father and mother don't understand it, but you must remember what you said today. We don't want you to do anything big, we just want you to be safe."

"Okay, okay. Dad, Mom, I know." Li Xiaohan said seriously, looking at Wang with tears in his eyes, and Li Xiandong who had been silent and worried, feeling guilty in his heart.

"My sister did something wrong. My sister was beaten." Li Xiaoshuang said suddenly in Li Xiandong's arms.

"Yes. My sister did something wrong, and she was beaten. Xiaoshuang, don't imitate your sister." Li Xiaohan reached out to take Li Xiaoshuang from Li Xiandong's arms, and kissed her cheek twice, "Xiaoshuang, have you missed your sister?"

"I want to. Xiaoshuang misses my sister, but she never comes back." Li Xiaoshuang put her chubby hands around her, her voice was sweet and soft, but she twisted her eyebrows pretending to be an adult.

"Sister, I miss Xiaoshuang. I rushed all the way back thinking about Xiaoshuang." Li Xiaohan suddenly laughed, teasing his sister while walking towards the village, "Shall we go home?"

Mrs. Wang looked at the wooden hairpin on Li Xiaohan's head, a trace of sadness flashed in her eyes, but she didn't say anything after all, and the whole family followed him towards the village.

Patriarch Li, who had been unable to say anything and was ignored by Li Xiandong and Wang for the first time in his life, put his hands behind his back and followed him inside - he had many things to ask, but now he felt guilty.

In fact, under the circumstances at that time, he had to watch the remaining tribesmen die. Li Xiaohan also said that the enemy would set fire to the mountain and no one could escape. He was blinded and agreed to Li Xiaohan as a human being. The hostage protected the tribesmen's retreat.

After waking up, I felt that I was really ashamed.

Even if there is no way to have both ends, he should not let Li Xiaohan go deep into the enemy's army alone. At least he, an old man, should go with him and have someone to take care of him.

The more I thought about it, the more upset I became. After they got together, the old wife kept mumbling about what she had done wrong, and the son frowned with a sad look on his face. He himself did not dare to face the two honest people Wang and Li Xiandong.

Now that Li Xiaohan has returned successfully, Patriarch Li is finally relieved and even feels more grateful to Zhang Fu. Therefore, Patriarch Li agreed to Li Xiaohan's suggestion to hand over the clan's allicin and Panax notoginseng styptic powder stocks to Zhang Fu without any objection.

Just after walking a short distance, Li Xiaohan, who was holding Li Xiaoshuang, felt his hands were sore. Li Xiaoshuang, who was well-fed at home and could eat and dance all day long, was like a chubby weight.

"Sister, I want to come down and walk by myself."

"Okay. Xiaoshuang is awesome." Li Xiaohan put Li Xiaoshuang down, held her hand, and walked around the trap back to the village.

"Patriarch, I'll go home and rest first, and I'll see you tomorrow." Li Xiaohan said when he returned to the fork in the village.

The attentive Li Xiaohan naturally felt the strange atmosphere between his parents and Patriarch Li: his parents were brave enough to ignore Patriarch Li, and Patriarch Li, who had always been very dignified as a patriarch, actually tolerated it.

I really never imagined that this day would come to pass.

Thinking about her being a hostage these past few days, her parents were really anxious.

Li Xiaohan was moved, but she couldn't blame Patriarch Li. After all, it was the best choice at the time. She took a certain risk to exchange for time and other people's names.

Besides, this was her own decision, not someone else's request for her sacrifice and dedication.

But at this moment, it's better not to talk about business with Patriarch Li.

"Sure. You go home first." Patriarch Li agreed.

After returning home, Li Xiaohan breathed a sigh of relief. His whole body relaxed from the inside out, and then he felt extremely tired, sleepy and hungry.

"Mom, I'm so tired and hungry."

"There is hot water in the stove and rice in the pot. Do you want to eat first or take a shower first?" Mrs. Wang said quickly.

The person sent back by Mr. Zhang Er specifically told Wang and Li Xiandong when Li Xiaohan would be back. Wang had been preparing: a fire in the house, hot water in the bucket, and food on the stove.

"I'll take a bath first, and then eat after taking a bath." Li Xiaohan thought for a while, mustering up the last of his sense and not going straight to the kang. After running around for a few days, the environment outside was not good. She had to take a hot bath first before she could have the strength to eat. After eating enough, she could have a good sleep.

"Okay. Go ahead. The water is hot. I'll get you some clothes."

After taking a hot bath, my whole body felt as if a pound of weight had been washed away, and my whole body felt relaxed.

Li Xiaohan casually tied up his half-dried hair with a wooden hairpin and walked out of the room.

Mrs. Wang and Li Xiandong had already laid out the dishes. Mrs. Wang glanced at the wooden hairpin on Li Xiaohan's head again, and her eyes became much calmer. She just pretended not to see it and never mentioned it first, "I've washed my hair. Baby, her father." , you can add an extra handful of firewood to the kang to prevent Xiaohan from catching a cold on his head."

"Yes." Li Xiandong responded and quickly went to add firewood.

Soon, the family sat at the dining table and started eating, mainly watching Li Xiaohan eat.

The rice is this spring's new rice, with plump grains, white and fragrant; the soup is fresh pork ribs, yam and wolfberry soup, with bright red wolfberry floating on the slightly yellow soup. A sip will warm your stomach; the braised rice is Carp, the rich sauce and the freshness of the fish are perfectly mixed together, making people full of appetite; the bacon is fried with garlic moss, the green garlic moss is paired with the translucent oily bacon, it is salty and delicious, and it is the same as rice. A perfect match; stir-fried wok with a little red pepper, the pepper is slightly spicy, the leaves are fresh and sweet, refreshing and appetizing...

This was the most relaxing and best meal she had had in this period of time, not just today, but since she knew that the imperial army was besieging the city.

Thinking that after arriving here, there would be no more wars in Dingcheng, King Ding would march his troops to the capital, singing triumphant songs all the way, and finally seize the fruits of victory, ascend the throne as king, and move the capital to Dingcheng. I want to laugh while eating it!

She finally passed this most difficult hurdle and has survived in this world ever since.

It's not easy, it's really not easy. Finally got over it!

"I've suffered a big sin. Eat slowly, don't overeat all at once, it will be uncomfortable." Wang said heartbrokenly. In the past few days, I must have suffered because I didn't eat well or sleep well.

Li Xiaohan swallowed the last sip of the goat milk drink with satisfaction, feeling extremely satisfied.

From the corner of his eye, he saw Li Xiaoshuang looking at him, taking a big sip of the goat's milk drink, imitating his own example. Because he drank too much, some of it was smeared on the corner of his mouth, and he couldn't help but smile.

"Mom, I understand." Very full and satisfied.

Mrs. Wang helped Li Xiaoshuang wipe the corners of her mouth and said, "If you eat too much, don't fall asleep all at once, as it will make your stomach uncomfortable. It's time to dry your hair, but don't sleep with your hair wet. You'll get headaches when you get older." ."

"Mom, I understand." Li Xiaohan can agree to anything now.

After a warm meal, Li Xiaohan dried his hair as Wang said, then untied his hair, spread it loosely behind his back, and fell into a deep sleep.

I fell asleep without dreams, and when I woke up I didn't know day and night, it was like a new life.

=== Chapter === 200

Seven days later.

The morning light is beginning to appear, and the pace of early winter this year has slowly arrived. Fortunately, it has not snowed yet, otherwise it would be more inconvenient to rest and recover after the war.

Li Xiaohan was riding on a horse, and the cold wind was blowing towards him, making people sober.

Next to them were Li Xiandong and Li Xinhe, and behind them were the soldiers Zhang Fu had left to help guard. They were preparing to enter the city with the goods they had remade in the past few days and should have been delivered to Renhetang.

Although Zhang Fu said that Pingshan Village is safer than the city, she has been back to Pingshan Village for seven days, plus the time she spent as a hostage, she thinks that the city should have been reorganized, and the large-scale imperial defeat is probably gone. .

Besides, she picked ten more cavalrymen from the generals Zhang Fu left behind, plus Old Uncle Zhong and Qingsong. Even if they encountered sporadic stragglers, she really didn't know who was afraid of whom.

"Mom, don't worry, we are with someone and will be back in the evening." Li Xiaohan shouted to Wang who was seeing him off from behind.

"Be careful along the way." Wang held Li Xiaoshuang's left hand and warned.

"Hmm, you take Xiaoshuang back. It's cold, don't catch a cold." Li Xiaohan shouted, turned the horse's head and started to set off.

She knew that Wang, who was worried, would never go back by herself first.

The horse galloped all the way. Living in this world, Li Xiaohan felt more and more that knowing how to ride a horse was so important at critical moments.

I am familiar with the road from Pingshan Village to Fucheng, but now that I pass it again, I feel like I am in another world. However, from autumn to winter, everything becomes a lot more desolate.

As we passed by, it seemed that there were a lot less firewood and piles of grain and grass in every house. There were no more elderly people chatting and preparing for winter leisure, and the voices of children playing and making noise could no longer be heard... Fortunately, there were already many in the fields. There are many figures, old and young, and very few strong men, busy in the fields covered with a layer of hoarfrost.

The people of all worlds are like the poorest and toughest weeds in the world, being destroyed over and over again, but as long as they are given a breathing environment, they will quietly take root and grow together.

When we arrived at Fucheng, the dilapidated city walls were still telling the story of the wars that this ancient city had experienced. The officers and soldiers at the city gate were even more tightly guarded, and the formerly prosperous flow of people in and out was no longer there. Even if there is such a person passing by, he is still in a hurry.

Li Xiaohan and his group were noticed as soon as they appeared in front of the city gate.

As they got closer and closer, the city gate guards were even more alert.

Fortunately, they were quickly let go after proving their identities as generals of the Zhang family. For safety reasons, Li Xiaohan did not show his name when he came out this time, but also dressed up in men's clothing, although he could not completely hide it. In the past, it would be fine as long as it was different from the image she had in and out of the city in the past.

When a group of people entered the city, they discovered that compared with the damage to the city wall, the damage inside the city was even more serious - all the houses near the city gate had been demolished, leaving only broken walls. Some civilians shuttled through it, picking out the bricks and tiles that could be used.

"Hearing that it was very difficult to defend the city that day, the princess mobilized the entire city. Many houses were demolished directly. Bricks and stones were transported to the city wall to be used as weapons, and wood was used as fuel to boil hot water and hot oil and pour it down directly." One of the attendants looked at Li Xiaohan with doubts on his face and explained in a low voice.

It turns out that these ruins are the scars left by a war, the badges of a city's citizens' battles, and the silent war songs.

Continuing to walk inside, the East and West streets, which used to be bustling with activity, were all closed. Only a few food shops were open, and many residents with hunched bodies and tired faces were lining up.

Li Xiaohan passed by and saw that the price of food on the wooden sign had doubled from before. Even so, the queue at the door was still far away.

I don't know whether to lament how difficult people's livelihood is, and the already high price of food is now even more unaffordable for ordinary people; or whether to be grateful that, although it is a bit more expensive, there is still food for sale.

"Let's go to Renhetang and have a look."

The group of people changed their route and went straight to Renhetang. Renhetang is one of the few places that is as popular as a grain store, and the people in this place are even more miserable.

"How many times have I told you that for your husband's injury, you need to take the medicine for three days and then come back to get the medicine. There is no extra medicine now, so I don't have to prepare all the medicine at once. The next person , next one!" A doctor in front of the counter waved impatiently to a woman, and the next patient hurried forward.

The woman's face became even more sad, but she had no choice but to take the prescription and go to the medicine boy to get some medicine.

Li Xiaohan glanced at it and saw that Dr. Ning and others he knew in the past were not there. Thinking about it, these doctors were very busy nowadays. Instead, it was a young medicine boy who came out from the backyard who raised the curtain and saw Li Xiaohan. He was slightly disbelieving. Eyes wide open.

"Li...Miss Li?"

"Doctor Xiaoshi, it's you." Li Xiaohan said with a smile. When she first went to Renhetang to sell Panax notoginseng, it was Doctor Xiaoshi who handled it.

Master Xiaoshi was overjoyed when he heard that Li Xiaohan recognized him.

The encounters between people are really unpredictable. Master Xiaoshi never imagined that Miss Li, who came to Renhetang with a basket on her back to sell medicinal materials, would become a rumored figure, but he was still handling medicinal materials in Renhetang. A drug boy.

And Miss Li still remembers herself.

Master Xiaoshi opened his eyes with a smile, and greeted him enthusiastically, "Miss Li, do you want to take medicine? Who is it for?"

"Master Xiaoshi, I don't need to grab medicine, I'm here to deliver it." Li Xiaohan said with a smile and motioned to Li Xiandong to deliver the allicin he had brought.

Renhetang has always cooperated with Pingshan Village, but this sudden war disrupted many plans.

"Ah, it's allicin. Great, it came just in time." Master Xiaoshi shouted in surprise. This medicine is in short supply now, "Come on, come on, come in quickly."

Several people entered, and Master Xiaoshi quickly called the shopkeeper in. The two parties counted the quantities and settled the payment very skillfully.

"Miss Li, this allicin can also increase production." Finally, the shopkeeper pleaded with a sad face.

"Shopkeeper, based on our friendship, I won't hide it from you. We only have so much now. The most important thing is the lack of raw materials. If you can find the raw materials, send them to us, and I will arrange them immediately. Manpower will handle it for you."

The purification of allicin requires a large amount of garlic raw materials and alcohol for purification. However, there were two wars between Qicheng and Dingcheng, and most of the garlic near Dingcheng was confiscated by the government.

The raw wine in Pingshan Village has also been exhausted, and now no one is willing to use grain to make wine.

"Yes, they are all missing." the shopkeeper sighed.

He was in Fucheng and was the shopkeeper of the medicine hall. He knew much more than the average person, so he naturally understood that what Li Xiaohan said was true.

The two looked at each other and smiled bitterly. Li Xiaohan comforted him, "The most difficult time is over and things will get better gradually. If we have a solution, we will give it to Renhetang first."

The shopkeeper also tried his best to cheer up and said, "Then I'll trouble Miss Li."

During the conversation, some doctors had already asked for allicin, and others were looking for the shopkeeper. Seeing how busy they were, Li Xiaohan hurriedly left.

After walking out of the gate of Renhetang, I suddenly felt a sense of bewilderment. The whole Dingcheng seemed to have been seriously injured and had not yet taken a breath.

Knowing this, they can't do anything to change it, which makes people feel heavy and uncomfortable.

Li Xiaohan didn't want to go to Zhang Fu. He didn't know how busy Zhang Fu, who was in charge of logistics, would be. If you don't have anything important to do, don't bother him.

"Dad, let's go and have a look in Gumen Alley." I don't know if their family in Gumen Alley is good, but it would be reassuring to go and see them.

The group turned around and went to Gumen Alley. The alley was far away from the city gate and had not been demolished.

That is, it was stolen.

The thief probably got in by climbing over the wall, and only stole food from the kitchen, leaving nothing in the main and side rooms.

After careful inspection, it was confirmed that only some food had been stolen.

In this world, it would be difficult to find out the situation at that time, and even if it were found out, it would be heartbreaking to pursue it.

Li Xiandong changed the lock and locked the door, and the group prepared to go home.

I was full of hope when I arrived, thinking that the city would be better than the village, but it turned out that the city was not much better. It would be better to go home and rest in the fields if I stayed here.

The group of people went home quietly. On the way, someone suddenly shouted, "A caravan is coming, a caravan is coming. You can exchange the white wax for food. Everyone, go quickly!"

"Where?"

"West City. West City."

"Where did the caravan come from?"

"I don't know. It doesn't matter where he comes from, as long as he has food."

The closed doors on both sides of the street were hurriedly opened, and everyone rushed to tell each other. Soon someone came out carrying white wax - the people in the city also had fields, and there was no caravan coming to collect wax this year. Later, Li Xiaohan proposed that the government purchase the goods in a unified manner, but the price was a bit lower compared to free trade. People with extra money wanted to keep it and wait and see, but they have been waiting until now.

Some people also bought white wax for their own use. The price was low at that time, so many people stocked up on it. This thing is often used, and it is indispensable during holidays. The price is right, so I stocked up earlier and kept it without spoiling.

It's all of no use now, so it's better to exchange it for food. After all, it's okay not to light wax, but it's not okay not to eat food.

There are also people who go out with money in their arms and grain bags, maybe they can use the money to buy something. The government grain stores have restrictions on purchases, so stocking up on some is reassuring.

"Let's go to the West Market and have a look." Li Xiaohan said. Anyway, they still had time, so it was rare to hear this good news.

The group went to the West Market, and many people who lived nearby had already arrived. The crowd was chaotic, with many people gathered in one place making a lot of noise.

Li Xiaohan frowned first.

"Are you people from Qicheng bullying us? Just now, we exchanged six taels of wax for one pound of fine grains and two pounds of coarse grains. Now, you tell me, we need eighty taels of wax. You raise the price on the spot, and then None of you do business like this!"

"If you like it, buy it or not. If you don't, go away."

"No, what kind of attitude do you have! Believe it or not, we will beat you up."

"Whoever beats whoever! Come on. Those who are afraid are cowards. Let me tell you, we wouldn't want to come even if you didn't invite us to the city. Beat us once and never come again." The food seller handed over the food. Throw it into the fight and don't give in at all.

Obviously, these words calmed the people in Dingcheng. The person who said the harsh words gritted his teeth, but he did not dare to take action.

The older man wiped his face, stepped forward and said with a smile, "Master, we sincerely want to buy it. See if the price can remain unchanged. How about seven taels? We The white wax produced here is very good, and the price charged by the government was even higher earlier."

"It is useless to eat or wear things, no matter how good they are, they are just icing on the cake. Our food is a life-saving food that comes to the rescue in times of need. It is clear at a glance which one is better and which one is not."

Although what he said was the truth, saying this in front of the people in Dingcheng who were short of food and rich in wax was undoubtedly a stab in the heart.

For the sake of food, no one dared to refute.

"Who's talking about the white wax in our city?" Li Xiaohan shouted loudly and slowly stepped forward from the crowd of onlookers.

She was riding a big horse, with soldiers behind her. She was so majestic that everyone gave way to her.

=== Chapter === 201

"Who's talking about the white wax in our city?" Li Xiaohan rode out slowly from behind the crowd.

Everyone was attracted by his momentum, and while avoiding him, they secretly discussed in low voices.

She was wearing men's clothing, but her voice was a woman's. It seemed that she didn't want people to recognize her identity, but she didn't mind exposing her female body.

Especially those from Dingcheng, I always feel an inexplicable sense of familiarity, but I can't think of it for a while - thanks to modern makeup technology, although Li Xiaohan has been a few years ago, he still practiced a few tricks to deal with various kinds of makeup. scene people.

The people in Dingcheng were confused, but the caravan side was muttering. Seeing that Li Xiaohan and his group were very powerful, they were probably some powerful people, so they were polite first.

Of course, it's only three points, after all, the people in Dingcheng need their food now. Today's Dingcheng is just a group of sick people waiting for food, and their lives are all in the hands of those who have food.

"Dare I ask this girl's name? Why are you meddling in our affairs?" Someone from the caravan soon came out to take charge of the situation.

"It doesn't matter who I am. You said someone invited you here. Who is your consul? I'm looking for him." Li Xiaohan did not answer directly, only looking for the person who spoke.

The people in the caravan looked at each other with hesitation, but the merchants were very discerning after all. Seeing that Li Xiaohan was so high-profile and imposing, it was obvious that he was someone who could not be fooled. After thinking for a moment, he finally decided to take Li Xiaohan Xiaohan invited over.

When the people around saw this, they started talking a lot, and a lot of hope arose in their hearts. This girl looked like she was from Dingcheng, and people from Dingcheng would always help people from Dingcheng.

Suddenly, a voice shouted in surprise, "I recognize it, that's Miss Li."

As soon as these words came out, they quickly aroused the resonance of everyone. Many people thought afterwards, "Yes, yes, it's Miss Li. I said, why does it look so familiar? I changed into men's clothes, and I couldn't recognize her."

"There are so many people and the momentum is great. It's not surprising that I can't recognize anything."

"Isn't this how Miss Li used to go out?"

"Shh, I heard that the people from the imperial court want to capture Miss Li, so you have to be careful."

"That's right, you can never be too careful."

The people in Dingcheng were talking a lot, with proud expressions on their faces. The people in the caravan did not care about the conflict just now, and shamelessly and cautiously confirmed: "What Miss Li?"

"It's Miss Li who taught us how to make pewter!" The person who replied held her head high and was very proud.

The look of the person questioning the caravan changed, and soon someone hurriedly caught up with him, presumably to report something higher.

So, when Li Xiaohan sat down at the place where the caravan stopped, before he finished drinking the cup of tea, the people in the caravan had already changed their attitude, and the person in charge came out quickly.

"Miss Li, I have admired your name for a long time. It is so rare for you to come to your place, it is really a blessing."

The person in charge was a middle-aged and wealthy man. He walked out quickly with a smile on his face. He could not see how impatient his subordinates were just now. "My surname is Chen, and I am the general person in charge of this chamber of commerce." , I'm getting older, just call me Mr. Chen."

Knowing Li Xiaohan's identity, Mr. Chen felt bitter. The people below him didn't know. He just felt that their caravan had traveled thousands of miles to transport the food to Dingcheng, and had to go to such trouble to sell it separately. It was just a door-to-door delivery, which was very humiliating.

You know, this is food. In this world, their food merchants are very popular.

Moreover, Prince Ding and the imperial court had been fighting in Qicheng for several months, and now they are showing up at his door. He is really feeling aggrieved. If he didn't bring out any complaints, he would have become a Buddha or an immortal.

Only Mr. Chen knew that besides selling grain, they actually came with a more important mission. This mission cannot be known to too many people, but it is closely related to their future lives.

"Mr. Chen, welcome. I heard that you all came all the way from Qicheng. It's really hard. On behalf of the many wax farmers in Dingcheng, I welcome you. If I had known you were coming, we should have served you a glass of wine. It's really rude. "

Li Xiaohan also smiled. To those who didn't know what was going on, it looked like the host and guest had hit it off and were talking happily.

But Mr. Chen, who has experienced ups and downs in the business world, immediately understood the hidden meaning of his words: Li Xiaohan had guessed that they came from Qicheng, and Li Xiaohan represented the wax farmers, but just now their people had suppressed the wax farmers. Li Xiaohan came to ask for an explanation.

"Miss Li, please have a seat. Please come and serve tea."

Mr. Chen was also a person who had walked through the wind and rain. Although he felt a little bit in his heart, his face did not show anything. He only said very enthusiastically, "I heard that the siege of the city has been going on for a long time and the people are short of food. We are worried. Hurry up. I arrived so slowly that I inevitably lost some of the rules, so please forgive me, Miss Li."

This is the case in the business world. The wind comes and goes, and Mr. Chen also has his own response: We saw that you were short of food, so we hurried over here. There were some irregularities, such as temporary price increases. It's not easy to be picky when you decide on a city.

"No, I'm anxious. To put it bluntly, now we, the people of Dingcheng and Qicheng, are really in trouble, and we share the same fate. We should work together, share our needs, and overcome difficulties together. ."

I admit that we are anxious, but we share what we need and are equal, but there is no reason for anyone to beg for others.

"Speaking of mutual exchanges, there is one area where we need Miss Li's help. That is Miss Li's allicin. Can you allocate a small share to us? You see, there are wars and how many people are waiting for help."

Mr. Chen immediately climbed up the pole and turned to another matter, which was also the purpose of their trip.

In fact, if Li Xiaohan was at home, he would have seen the representatives sent by the Qicheng Caravan to Pingshan Village to ask for medicine. But they didn't expect that Li Xiaohan would actually come to Fucheng, and the two groups missed it perfectly.

The Qicheng caravan did not want nothing. They worked hard to bring food to Dingcheng to do business. The most important thing was to get the life-saving medicine in troubled times-alcohol, Panax notoginseng styptic powder, and allicin. Allicin, in particular, is said to have the ability to bring people back to life and snatch people from the hands of King Yama.

Unfortunately, the news they knew was that the allicin was only produced by the military and the Li family. The military in Dingcheng didn't even have enough to produce, and the generals were furious. The output of the Li family is very limited, and it only supplies Jiangnan Chamber of Commerce, Renhetang and Qinggang.

It is said that Li Xiaohan is very conservative in business, and it is difficult to persuade her to increase production even with more money and goods. However, she is in an exclusive business, so she can only follow her path.

Qicheng now needs this medicine very much, more than any other, because allicin is so symptomatic and irreplaceable.

"Yes. I don't know if Mr. Chen knew before he came here. I do business and need to provide most of the raw materials. I only charge grain to offset the bill." Li Xiaohan agreed readily to everyone's surprise.

What's even more surprising is that Li Xiaohan was even willing to give a discount, "In order to express my welcome to Mr. Chen for coming from afar, I can give you a 10% discount on the price of the first batch of goods."

You know, Li Xiaohan never discounts.

Mr. Chen, the head of the Chamber of Commerce, almost suspected that there was something wrong with his ears, that he had heard wrongly, or that the information they had previously investigated was completely wrong.

He had imagined many difficulties before coming, and had thought of countless ways to deal with them, but he did not expect that none of them would work. Li Xiaohan agreed so readily? !

However, Mr. Chen was shocked, which did not prevent him from immediately taking the opportunity to finalize the matter. "Miss Li, don't worry, we are all ready. The garlic has been shipped here, and there are other auxiliary materials. Even if Miss Li said, we will definitely It will be delivered as soon as possible."

After that, Mr. Chen handed over the list, which was a description of the garlic and grain conditions for payment.

Nowadays, everyone knows that allicin is refined from garlic and a variety of drugs, otherwise it would not be called allicin. But countless doctors racked their brains and could not restore the formula.

"Mr. Chen, you need a lot..."

Li Xiaohan paused, which only made Mr. Chen from the Chamber of Commerce feel excited.

Seeing Li Xiaohan frowning and looking at the list, Mr. Chen wanted to say a few words, but he couldn't say anything about reducing the amount.

But after two breaths, before Mr. Chen could make up his mind, Li Xiaohan raised his head and spoke like a saint, "But as I just said, we help each other and share our needs. We still have sincerity in this idea. .According to this quantity, we will take this order!"

Mr. Chen was so happy that he couldn't hold back his face. The wrinkles on his face turned into chrysanthemums. He was busy trying to answer the call and settle the matter quickly. Then he heard Li Xiaohan say, "Is this the time?"

"What's wrong with this time?" Mr. Chen felt that he was so happy that he had just landed and was hoisted up to the sky. He was old and couldn't bear it.

"The time is a bit tight." Li Xiaohan frowned slightly, "But for the sake of cooperation between the two cities, we have to work overtime to get it out."

Panting heavily, if Mr. Chen hadn't figured out what Li Xiaohan meant, all these years would have been in vain.

"What Miss Li is saying is that our two cities are connected by fate, helping each other, and communicating with each other. Miss Li, don't worry, we didn't have time to straighten it out before, and we lost the rules. We Those who do business pay the most attention to clearly stating the actual price. We will not add any extra penny for the amount of white wax that we said we would exchange for grain. Come on, please give me the order and follow the rules."

Soon someone responded, thinking that the price of white wax for food would not change again.

"Mr. Chen, you won't blame me for being nosy. The truth is, I was the one who taught you how to make white wax. I can't bear it."

If Li Xiaohan wants the other party to be happy, he can continue to use polite words, and the steps will be natural and sincere.

"How could it be possible?" Mr. Chen's eyes widened. "The white wax should be at this price. It's so bright and easy to use. In the past, only princes and nobles could afford such good candles. We all in the city envy them. It has been a long time since we settled in the city, and now we are finally able to use it, which is a blessing for us. Miss Li's clever mind can actually discover that this little bug has such a great use, which really makes us admire it."

Mr. Chen walked up and down the stairs and cheered each other up. Don't be too slick, and the atmosphere became more harmonious. "That's it, can we sign the paperwork first?"

It would be appropriate to strike while the iron is hot and get the matter down in black and white now.

They have the food that the people of Dingcheng need to survive, but behind them there is allicin that whets their appetites. Big fish eat small fish, small fish eat shrimps, and they are just a part of it. Why don't both parties do the business in peace and harmony?

"Of course it's possible." Li Xiaohan responded readily.

Documents and contracts are all in a fixed format. Both parties are experienced and willing to cooperate. They were quickly signed in triplicate, each holding one copy. Due to the identity of both parties and the special nature of the goods, they handed one copy to the government for records.

It took about an hour after the paperwork was processed, and this was still the result of the government's cooperation and sealing.

"It's getting late, business is important. Let's say goodbye today. Until the day of delivery, Mr. Chen is welcome to come to our Pingshan Village for a glass of wine."

After everything was done, Li Xiaohan stood up and said goodbye.

"I'll see Miss Li off, please come here. Let's tidy up today and visit Miss Li another day." Mr. Chen raised his hands and cupped his fists.

After leaving the Qicheng Chamber of Commerce, Li Xiaohan and others walked slowly, but did not leave the city directly. Instead, they went to a restaurant for lunch, and it was already past lunch time without realizing it.

The restaurant was deserted. In such a large restaurant, there were only Li Xiaohan and his group, and the shopkeeper was too busy swatting flies. At this time, I am no longer picky about what to eat and let the store serve what I want. As a result, the dishes were still very monotonous. After eating, Li Xiaohan did not leave directly, but sat and drank tea and waited.

Soon someone came back and said, "Miss Li, as you said, I have already gone to the government office to ask someone to go to the West Market to maintain order. My subordinates also went to the West Market to see that food prices have stabilized. They didn't raise the price any more."

It was the general Li Xiaohan sent out earlier who rushed back to talk to him.

"Okay. Thank you for your hard work. You need to cushion a little first. We will go back later."

The general was stunned for a moment, but he didn't expect that he would wait until he finished eating before leaving.

The colleague at the table next to him quickly waved him over and pointed to the food left for him. People who have been on the battlefield eat quickly, and everyone quickly pays and leaves.

"drive!"

The group of people quickly left the city and made a trip to Fucheng. Although what they got was not what they originally thought, they finally got something, and the trip was not in vain.

The road back to Pingshan Village was very peaceful, but as soon as we arrived at the entrance of the village, Patriarch Li hurriedly greeted him, "Xiaohan, there are two groups of people looking for you. One group of people introduced themselves as coming from Qicheng, and the other group It's Mr. Su from the Jiangnan Chamber of Commerce. Mr. Su said he didn't want to reveal his identity and I've already made separate arrangements. Who do you want to meet first?"

These two groups of people, overtly and covertly, all come here with the intention of doing business.

Having just experienced a wave of war, Patriarch Li is now extremely insecure and wants to work and make money immediately. When the Li family does business, they do business not with money, but with food.

What can make people feel more secure now than food and medicine?

No!

They have their own medicine, which is still the best. Food is also delivered to your door now.

Patriarch Li felt that he should burn incense with his ancestors day and night, and thank his ancestors for blessing Li Xiaohan to be born into the Li family.

It's just that whether or not to do this business, and how to do it, ultimately depends on Xiaohan's wishes.

"Let's take a look at the people from Qicheng first. We have signed a sales contract with them in Fucheng. Chief, please see, this is a document."

Li Xiaohan dismounted and handed the newly signed documents from his arms to Patriarch Li, "Their people are missing and they don't know the news yet. Just tell them soon."

Patriarch Li was surprised that Li Xiaohan moved so quickly. He even brought back documents from a trip to Fucheng. He opened the documents and glanced at them.

Although the request was large, the time was tight, and the price was slightly discounted, Patriarch Li estimated the manpower arrangements of the clan and felt that this transaction was still very profitable, and he couldn't help but smile on his face for a moment.

"Very good, very good." Patriarch Li nodded in agreement and folded the document and handed it to Li Xiaohan.

"Clan leader, just put it away. This is an order received by the pharmacy, and the documents will be kept with you."

Li Xiaohan refused. She would leave this kind of work to the clan leader. If she had to handle everything by herself, why would she build a medicine workshop in the first place?

"Alright."

Patriarch Li put the document into his arms. Nowadays, in terms of external affairs of the clan, there is a feeling that he will do whatever Li Xiaohan says.

This is also the result of discussions between the patriarch and his elders these days: the world has changed, and they are older, and after all, they are not as flexible and capable as young people. It's time to give way to the young people to fight hard. They can just stand back and support us.

While talking, he soon arrived at Li Xiandong's house. The new guests came for Li Xiaohan, so it was most appropriate to arrange them at Li Xiaohan's house. Just to let Patriarch Li talk to Li Xiaohan first, Li Shengyi and his third uncle stayed with the guests.

Seeing Patriarch Li and Li Xiaohan walking in quickly, the visitor quickly stood up and said hello, "Miss Li, it's really annoying to come here uninvited. My surname is Chen and I come from Qicheng."

This Mr. Chen had the same surname as Mr. Chen in Fucheng. He was very polite and courteous, and his eyes were sharp. They easily guessed that Li Xiaohan, who was wearing men's clothes and walking side by side with the clan leader, was the person they were looking for.

"Mr. Chen, I'm really sorry. I just went out and kept you waiting for so long."

Li Xiaohan smiled and raised his hand, "It just so happens that we also met a Mr. Chen from Qicheng named Chen Mingfu in Fucheng. Do you know each other?"

"Hahaha, it's my clan brother. We came to Qicheng together. Miss Li, just call me Chen Er." Mr. Chen laughed.

"Then I have already guessed the purpose of your visit, Mr. Chen Er. I have signed a document with Mr. Chen and agreed on the relevant matters of the sale. Mr. Chen Er, your trip has been in vain. As for the specific details, Mr. Chen expected that I might meet you and asked you to go back and discuss them in detail."

"That's great." Mr. Chen Er looked happy and was not disappointed at all about his trip.

In this era, when away from home, the interests of the clan are the same. The interests of Mr. Chen Er and Mr. Chen are essentially one.

Mr. Chen is guarding Fucheng, most likely because it is his first time to come to Fucheng. The situation in Fucheng is complicated, and he needs an upright person to control the situation.

"If I can meet Miss Li, it's not in vain. Before I came here, I was curious about what kind of landscape could give birth to a person like Miss Li. Now that I see it, it is indeed well-deserved. To put it bluntly, , I am a generation older than Miss Li, but I have been fascinated by Miss Li for a long time. Miss Li's independent business is stable enough and has great wisdom."

Or maybe the reason why Mr. Chen Er is asked to come over is because Mr. Chen can hold someone up lower than Mr. Chen, which makes the other person more happy. To a certain extent, Mr. Chen Er is a more suitable candidate to come over.

Of course, it also reflects the Chen family's, or Qicheng's, desire for allicin and the importance they attach to Li Xiaohan.

In fact, Li Xiaohan has never officially been on the battlefield, and he cannot understand the impact of the confrontation between the two armies on ordinary people. The bloody cruelty, human life is like a piece of grass, and no amount of wealth, status, and power can withstand the crushing force of the group. Pressure, personal life is extremely fragile.

The battle between the imperial court and King Ding in Qicheng made the people of Qicheng extremely frustrated and shocked. After all, it was the city of Qicheng that was damaged, and there were countless casualties and many people of Qicheng.

But the people in Qicheng tolerated the grievances in person, because their fists were not as big as others.

This battle also let the people of Qicheng know that since there are so many magical medicines in Dingcheng, allicin, notoginseng hemostatic powder, alcohol, and even white wax can be used to stop bleeding.

With these medicines, King Ding's army became more powerful and worry-free.

They also need life-saving medicine. It's a pity that the medicine in King Ding's army is not enough. Except for the top dignitaries in Qicheng, who can get some rewards from King Ding, no one else can do anything.

Fortunately, they got inside information from someone who was interested and guided them to Dingcheng. It is said that Sanqi Co., Ltd. is already directly supplied to Dingwang. Alcohol requires a lot of food and has bad effects now. Allicin is the most suitable.

Taking the hint, they hurried over with their goods.

Hearing that Mr. Chen had signed a document with Li Xiaohan, Mr. Chen was overjoyed - he could finally use this life-saving medicine.

"Now that the matter has been settled, I won't disturb Miss Li any more. I hope Miss Li will accept some small gifts and we will come visit you another day." Mr. Chen Er said goodbye very wisely.

There are many secret recipes in Pingshan Village. They came suddenly and it is not suitable to stay for a long time to avoid misunderstandings.

"The reception was not good. I just happened to have some other things to do and could not continue to entertain Mr. Chen Er. I will wait for Mr. Chen Er to send the raw materials another day, and then I will ask Mr. Chen Er to try the special dishes of our Li family. Maybe we can work together on more projects."

"In that case, I can't waste Miss Li's time anymore." Mr. Chen Er stood up and said, "I will definitely try the special dishes Miss Li mentioned some other time."

"Come on, Mr. Chen Er, I'll see you off."

"Miss Li, stay here. See you next time."

"Goodbye."

After sending away Mr. Chen Er and others who came to visit with gifts, Patriarch Li felt very comfortable, "Xiaohan, are you going to see Mr. Su and others now?"

"Wait a minute, Patriarch." Li Xiaohan was no longer in a hurry. He sat down and slowly took a sip of water, "What's the situation over there, Mr. Su?"

Patriarch Li was confused. Mr. Su was a regular customer of theirs, so Xiaohan still needed to ask something special?

But since Li Xiaohan asked, he just answered, "Mr. Su came with his second son, and some nursing staff. It is said that because of the uneven road, they even disguised themselves when they came."

The road was rough, so why didn't they dare to see anyone when they came to Pingshan Village? It was just because King Ding had rebelled, and Mr. Su and the others didn't dare to show up.

However, if Mr. Su was able to get here, Patriarch Li could guess that he must have secretly obtained permission. Besides, as a regular customer, Patriarch Li would have to give him more or less face.

"I came in person. I even pretended to be here." Li Xiaohan drank tea slowly. After drinking a cup of tea for two-quarters of an hour, he finally stood up and said, "Chief, please invite Master Su."

Mr. Su came very quickly, wearing ordinary clothes, dressed like a businessman who was a little rich but not very rich, and who was very careful about his life. He looked not surprised at all, and disappeared from everyone else.

"Master Li, long time no see, long time no see." As soon as he saw Li Xiaohan, Mr. Su's face was immediately filled with smiles. He was extremely enthusiastic, even more enthusiastic than Mr. Chen Er just now.

Li Xiaohan's expression was not as talkative as before. Contrary to Mr. Su, the smile on Li Xiaohan's face became half-smiling, which was thought-provoking.

"Mr. Su, I didn't see you come to pick up the goods last time. I thought we would have no chance to cooperate again in the future."

Mr. Su's face froze: Li Xiaohan's words are hidden in the skin and are not a welcome attitude.

Instinctive discomfort, panic that things were not as expected, but in the end, Mr. Su's face showed only sadness and frustration, "I am really sad to hear Mr. Li say this. I thought that because we have been here for so long Friendship... Well, let's not talk about it. It was indeed our fault that we were unable to keep the appointment on time. However, the world is like this, and we really have no choice. No, I will come over as soon as I find the opportunity. "

The old fox played the emotional card and tried to clear himself, but unfortunately Li Xiaohan didn't take the trick, "Oh, is that so? Then I really blamed Mr. Su wrongly."

As he spoke, his expression changed from a smile to a calm one, so calm that it made people feel frightened.

"In this case, the visitor is a guest. Unfortunately, Mr. Su has also seen it. Our Li family is still in chaos now, so we can only treat guests with a cup of tea."

There is an ancient hidden meaning of drinking tea to see guests off. It is impossible for Mr. Su not to understand it. Mr. Su understands it very well - Li Xiaohan doesn't want to continue doing business.

"Master Li, if I have offended you in any way, considering that I have come all the way here at my age, and considering that we have worked together for so long before, please give me some advice."

Mr. Su was able to bend and stretch, so he immediately bowed his head and started selling miserably.

Li Xiaohan turned to look at Mr. Su. Due to the disguise, Mr. Su was not wearing the exquisite and extravagant clothes he once had. Instead, he looked like an ordinary wealthy businessman from the North. In addition, he had traveled a long way here and his face looked tired. .

Li Xiaohan's expression changed, and his tone softened a bit, "Mr. Su, I only told you in the past that I would give you the Beijing distribution rights of pewter, but you and I both know that you also sell allicin to the capital. Now In this situation, white wax is fine, but allicin and other wound medicines, if you continue to sell them to the capital, how will I face the people who died this time, and how will I continue to live in Dingcheng. "

Come, come, the worst is coming.

Mr. Su felt more miserable than Coptis: Sure enough, it was because of this.

Smuggling medicine to the enemy, especially such life-saving medicine, is undoubtedly collaborating with the enemy.

Li Xiaohan also had an official position and was particularly sensitive. If he continued to sell allicin to the capital through the Jiangnan Chamber of Commerce, his crime would be increased.

=== Chapter === 202

Li Xiaohan didn't want to be accused of collaborating with the enemy. Mr. Su had come all the way here, but he would not give up easily: the imperial court, Prince Ding and the Jiangnan Chamber of Commerce both made bets, and they would not suffer any loss on whoever wins or loses.

This is Mr. Su's confidence to travel in both directions.

Especially for life-saving medicines like allicin, there is no reason to give up easily. It doesn't matter if the throne upsets the world. Anyway, whether it's an uncle or a nephew, the person sitting on it belongs to the same family, but his life is his own.

Besides, sometimes the more troubled the times, the more money a big chamber of commerce like them can make. Their ancestor, Prime Minister Lu, who never met their merchants, once said, "The one who establishes the country will win countless times."

However, sometimes the power of dragon is not so easy to obtain, and you have to start from the details.

"Master Li, I dare not hide it from you. Previously, some of the goods from our Jiangnan Chamber of Commerce were indeed sold to the capital, but we also have a large part in Jiangnan."

Mr. Su explained sincerely, "I know that the current situation is sensitive. However, precisely because of the current situation, we in Jiangnan are also willing to express our sincerity. To be honest with Mr. Li, we already knew about the white wax before we came here. , reached an agreement with the palace to continue trading pewter for the grain that Ding City needs most."

"Look, this is an agreement signed and sealed by me." Mr. Su seemed to have really told all the details frankly, "Once this thing is leaked out, the court will never let it go easily. It's mine. By then, I will be the one who collaborates with the enemy, betrays the country, confiscates the family and exterminates the clan."

"I am on the side of our city!"

Mr. Su's grief and indignation of self-certification by caesarean section make people moved.

Li Xiaohan was already ashamed of his cold face just now, and hurriedly helped Mr. Su to fold up the document, "Mr. Su, I'm sorry, I wronged you. Please forgive me for my young inconsideration, I will apologize to you as a junior. ."

"no, I'm fine."

Master Su folded the document tremblingly, perhaps revealing the deepest secret. Master Su looked much older and calmer for a moment.

"Mr. Li, you were right to worry earlier. Young people, who have not come here at this time, are all passionate, I understand."

Li Xiaohan quickly poured a cup of hot tea for Mr. Su and raised his hands to express his apology.

Mr. Su took it and drank it all in one gulp, which meant that he had let go of the previous awkwardness.

The atmosphere between the two became harmonious again, even more harmonious than when they worked together most happily. After all, everyone is now in the same boat.

"Master Li..."

"Master Su, just call me Xiaohan."

"Don't you dare, Mr. Li, let me ask with a thick face, is there no room for our allicin?" Mr. Su's face was pale, his eyes were filled with tears, and he was pleading.

"I definitely didn't lie to you when I said that allicin and ash Jiangnan occupy a large market. I'm not doing it for myself. We, the people of Jiangnan, also need this allicin."

"My family, Gaotang, is old and suffers from ailments all year round. The doctor said that using a little allicin from time to time will be good for his health." Mr. Su turned out to be a filial son.

"Mr. Su, this allicin is a medicine after all. You can't overdose. If you take too much, you may end up running out of medicine." Li Xiaohan quickly advised.

"I know this truth, but the doctor said that as I get older, I just need to relax a little before leaving and live a more decent life." Mr. Su looked helpless.

It turned out to be hospice care, and Li Xiaohan looked apologetic.

"Also, I, the Su family, are a businessman. I often encounter bandits. These are all great young men. I really can't bear to lose their lives. If there are other ways, we also want to make money safely. But there's nothing we can do about it, there are so many families, old, young, women and children waiting for us to make money for food."

Mr. Su let out a long sigh, and his originally straight back seemed to be bent by the huge pressure.

Li Xiaohan's expression became hesitant.

"Master Li, I heard that Master Li rescued many children in the past few days. It is not a pity for those of us who are older to die. I beg you on behalf of the children in Jiangnan."

Mr. Su stood up, clasped his hands and bowed his head.

Li Xiaohan finally wavered, "Okay, then I will supply you with half of Jiangnan's share. But you have to promise that you will never sell it to the capital, and you will never reveal this secret to anyone!"

"Master Li, I, Su, promise on my head that I will never sell it to the capital, and I will never reveal this secret to anyone." Mr. Su raised his hand and said sternly.

Li Xiaohan breathed a sigh of relief, obviously believing it.

"That's it, can you add a little more to this quantity? It wasn't enough before, but now this allicin is becoming more and more popular in Jiangnan." Mr. Su hesitated and asked again and again.

Li Xiaohan looked at Mr. Su suspiciously, and his expression changed a little.

Mr. Su quickly explained, "I promise not to sell it to the capital. It's just that allicin is becoming more and more popular in Jiangnan. Even according to the original share, it is not enough in Jiangnan. Old people and young children, if you give it to one, you can't give it to the other. I often feel so guilty late at night that I can't sleep peacefully."

"We don't have enough manpower now. We have other things to be busy with." Li Xiaohan understood, but still looked embarrassed.

Mr. Su's eyes flashed, "We can increase the price by 20% or 30%! Mr. Li, winter is coming and you also need food. This is something that is beneficial to both of us."

Perhaps it was a price increase, perhaps it was food. Li Xiaohan was convinced and retreated, "Okay. Then I'll give it to you according to the original share."

"That's it. Master Li, let's sign this document." Master Su urged.

Naturally, the document this time was not notarized by a third party. After Li Xiaohan signed it, he couldn't help but be reminded again and again, "Remember to keep it confidential."

"Master Li, you can rest assured that we will handle the matter." Mr. Su assured firmly, and carefully folded the documents and kept them close to his body.

"The matter has been made clear. Our identities are sensitive and we should not stay any longer. From now on, my second son will disguise himself as a businessman from Qicheng to pick up and deliver the goods in person. He is the most cautious person. Don't worry, Mr. Li."

"Okay. Then I won't keep you, Master Su. Thank you for your hard work. I will send Master Su off."

Li Xiaohan sent Master Su and his party out of Pingshan Village and watched the shadow of Master Su's car gradually go away.

Mr. Su in the carriage waved frequently and reluctantly.

It wasn't until they could no longer see each other that Young Master Su said worriedly to Mr. Su who looked happy, "Dad, the people from Pingshan Village have gone back. Dad, do we really not want to go to the capital? Is that okay?"

Mr. Su happily took out the document and read it carefully. After confirming that it was correct, he took the document back into his arms, "I only promise that I will not sell to the capital, and I did not tell anyone else. There are so many people in the Su family, and I will check it alone." It doesn't matter if it's not strict, it's okay."

"Dad, you are lying to Mr. Li. You swore an oath." Young Master Su looked at his father in shock, with disbelief on his face.

Mr. Su looked at his second son impatiently and sighed, "It's a good thing that I came here in person, otherwise, depending on you, I would have to finish the game sooner or later."

I gave birth to three sons, but none of them was useful. The third child didn't even dare to use a beauty trick, and the second child didn't even dare to swear a false oath.

"Son, don't say it. The oaths you have sworn are all true. They are all to deceive silly women like your mother." Mr. Su looked cunning and cunning. "The words from our men's mouths are not written in black and white. , even if the words in black and white are not translated into reality, it may be a lie."

Second Young Master Su's face was filled with embarrassment, "Dad, Mr. Li is not my mother, so you can fool me. If Mr. Li finds out in the future, she will fall out. What will you do then?"

"Yes, Mr. Li can't let me fool him. Unfortunately, he is still too young and too soft-hearted. Fortunately, I signed the document." Mr. Su patted his chest, "With this document, Mr. Li is restricted. She is in Dingcheng. When you are an official, you only fear more than me."

"..." Young Master Su was silent for a long time, and finally said with a bit of disgust, "Dad, you are really cunning."

"Hey." Mr. Su was thick-skinned and only took it as a compliment, "You brat, if you could be born like Miss Li, or if you could win Miss Li's heart, your father and I wouldn't have to make all these calculations. Now. I will sit firmly in the high hall and enjoy the success."

Second Young Master Su turned his head away from his father, feeling very worried.

He already knew why his third brother didn't dare to come to Dingcheng again. If he didn't have his heart set on something, he wouldn't dare to walk this tightrope with his father.

Just, I don't know how Mr. Li would be angry if he knew about it.

Thinking of this, Second Young Master Su became more depressed and wanted to prepare in advance on what to do to alleviate Lord Li's anger.

But the more I thought about it, the more my head felt knotted, and all kinds of thoughts were in a mess. There was only one conclusion: if it was really exposed, their family would definitely be done with it.

Forget it, take it one step at a time, hide it for as long as you can.

The carriage rumbled forward, and Young Master Su was filled with despair. He lay in the carriage with his eyes closed like a salted fish.

Li Xiaohan, who was worried by Second Young Master Su, seemed to be kept in the dark for the time being, with a leisurely look on his face.

"Xiaohan, do you really think Mr. Su's guarantee is reliable? I always feel that there is something wrong with it." Li Xinhe said with worry on his face.

There were other people around just now, and it was difficult for Li Xinhe to dismantle Li Xiaohan. Even though there were many things in his heart that felt wrong, Li Xinhe supported Li Xiaohan's decision. After the last incident, Li Xinhe was not the only one who changed. Li Xinhe, the elders like the clan leader, also deeply reflected on himself.

Now he has already determined that Li Xiaohan is much better than him in terms of intelligence and affection for the clan. In this case, from now on, he will focus on Li Xiaohan and support her.

However, although Xiaohan is very smart, he is still very young and does not know much about people, well, men.

Not to mention old foxes like Mr. Su, Li Xin and the young classmates in the college sometimes make vows, which is really as common as eating and drinking.

Li Xinhe was secretly ashamed of the behavior of the men around him, but now that he was the only one left, Li Xinhe also wanted to remind Li Xiaohan to take precautions.

"If it's really untrustworthy, what do you think we should do?"

Li Xiaohan turned his head, his dark eyes seemed to be smiling, and asked Li Xinhe seriously.

It didn't look like he was kept in the dark. Li Xinhe felt relieved.

Seeing that Li Xiaohan had been looking at him and waiting for a reply, he knew that Li Xiaohan wanted to give him some advice. After thinking for a long time, he could not think of a perfect solution. "If it is true that you signed the document, it will be very detrimental to you. Unless you can Get the paperwork back, otherwise you'll just have to walk around."

"Brother Xinhe, these medicines will definitely leak out." Li Xiaohan sighed and told the truth.

"That being the case, why are you still doing this? If the palace finds out, you will be in danger." Li Xinhe said with a hint of anxiety and a hint of doubt, "Or, you have already expected the current situation. Keep a backup plan."

Yes, it must be like this. This is like Li Xiaohan's style.

"I have already told Mr. Zhang about this matter earlier. This decision was made by us together. Naturally, we will report it in front of the prince and pick me out." Li Xiaohan explained.

"Why?" Li Xinhe didn't know why he made things so complicated.

"The purpose of selling allicin to the capital is to dissolve the people's hearts in the capital. Brother Xinhe, if you are seriously injured, you know that there is a medicine that can save your life, but for various reasons, you cannot use it. Go up. If no one can use it, you will accept your fate. But unfortunately, the powerful people in the city use it. What do you think? "

"What if you are one big-headed soldier? What if you are many big-headed soldiers?"

Li Xinhe was horrified: the killing was invisible, and the imperial army was dissatisfied from then on.

For a moment, I just felt that the game in the court was strange and unpredictable, and my thinking was still too simple.

However, Li Xinhe sincerely asked for advice, "Then...if that's the case, why do we still have to do this scene?"

"In order to protect myself. In this way, Mr. Su will definitely be more cautious, and will also tell everyone on the line that I have been deceived. Then even if one day the matter is exposed, many people will Naturally, I think this matter has little to do with me, and the attacks on me will be much smaller."

Although she has the trump card and is not afraid of misunderstandings, in this kind of thing, the least she can do is get involved as little as possible.

As Bian Que said, real masters often resolve diseases when they are in the final stage, and will not wait until a serious illness cannot be cured.

The principles behind all things are sometimes the same.

Li Xinhe thought about the reason carefully and sighed, "Maybe I am not suitable for the court. I have been studying for many years and I only know how to study."

"Brother Xinhe, you just haven't been exposed to the official affairs of the court before, so you haven't cultivated this kind of thinking." Li Xiaohan comforted, "Besides, in the journey of becoming an official, there are strategists who make various plans, and there are also doers who are dedicated to doing practical things. Wan There are thousands of paths, as long as you reach the goal in your heart."

Li Xiaohan sincerely believes this. Methods can be learned and experience can be accumulated, but the heart is the most important.

Although Li Xinhe has shortcomings of one kind or another, his advantages are equally obvious: he is a natural person, he has no bad intentions, and he listens to instructions.

If you want to continue to grow yourself, you must continue to train helpers, and people from the clan are the best choice.

There are not many people to choose from at this moment. Li Xinhe is the first person she has chosen in the past few years. After so much effort, she must not let him hide away.

"Xiaohan is right. Xinhe, no one in our clan has been an official in the court for many generations. If the clan is to be revitalized, there will always be someone who will be the first to pioneer the way. If you just back down, are you planning to do so? Leave Xiaohan to fight alone." Patriarch Li persuaded with serious words.

Doesn't he know that his son's character is not smooth enough, but as the head of a clan and protected by the clan, he must make sacrifices and contribute to the clan.

Especially in these troubled times, power is so important. Just because Li Xinhe is his son, he can't just follow his temper.

"Yes. Brother Xin and we have to fight side by side." Li Xiaohan said with a smile.

"It's not that I don't want to, I'm just afraid that if I don't notice, it will drag you down." Li Xinhe did not resent being misunderstood by his old father and clan sister, and explained gently, and then said with a smile, "In the future, I can only Please Xiaohan, please give me more guidance."

"Okay," Li Xiaohan continued crisply, "Actually, I had another purpose for lying to Mr. Su."

"What else?" Li Xinhe blurted out, but it actually had other deeper meanings.

"Hahaha, I just want to find a reason to increase the price. Who makes Master Su too rich and we are too poor." Li Xiaohan felt comfortable.

For a moment, few people present could react: speaking of it, the pricing of goods in Pingshan Village has always been quite stable. Of course, this is because the pricing has always been very high and there is no competition. Relationship.

Anyway, I made quite a lot of money.

"Then...since you wanted to raise the price, when you signed the document with Mr. Chen from Qicheng, you took the initiative to lower the price. Why was that?" Li Xinhe was present at the time, and it was indeed Li Xiaohan who brought up the price reduction. "Moreover, when those people in the West Market temporarily increased their prices, you not only didn't get angry to pursue them, but you actually took the initiative to lower the prices."

In fact, this is another unsolved problem for Li Xinhe, and now he is seriously seeking advice.

Li Xinhe knew Li Xiaohan. She was smart, kind, generous, and had a clear distinction between love and hate. But what Li Xiaohan valued most was human life, whether it was his own life or the lives of others.

She makes money, but making money is for a better life. Increasing food prices, especially temporary price increases after war, is not only a matter of price, but also affects the lives of people who are hungry and full, and is definitely not something Li Xiaohan agrees with.

"Actually, I don't blame them for being angry. If it were me in the past, I wouldn't have let it go so easily. Maybe I would have raised the price severely today." Li Xiaohan sighed.

"But today you have also seen what is going on in our city. Let's look at it from another perspective. King Ding and the court are fighting hard in Qicheng. Will the food in the houses and fields of the people of Qicheng be affected? What do you think? Are you angry? After the fight, you still have to come to your door to do business with us in the city. Isn't that aggrieved? "

"Let me give you an example. If Zhujiacun and Chenjiacun next door are fighting in front of our house and there is no one around, will they treat us as dead? Should we go up and have a fight with them?"

"We had no choice but to fight, so we had to endure it. After Zhujiacun won the battle, he said, I'm sorry, I'm thirsty from the fight just now. Let's pick some honeydew melons to sell. Can we dance!"

"So, if you can push him back, that's all. Let's try to change people's hearts. I said that Dingcheng and Qicheng need to get through the difficulties, and I really think so in my heart."

As soon as Li Xiaohan's metaphor came out, everyone who went to Fucheng immediately forgave the man who said the evil words, and even thought that he had a good temper and was a straight person.

"I just wronged you." Li Xiandong said a little dullly after thinking about it for a moment.

What does this have to do with his daughter? Why should his daughter lower her head and do these things?

Li Xiaohan looked at the slightly dull Li Xiandong and smiled warmly: These are his parents in this life. From the perspective of outsiders, they have many disappointments, but they are the only ones who always care about themselves more than anything else. all.

"It's not a grievance. It's just a few nice words and a price reduction, which can bring great benefits. Compared to others, I don't pay much."

Li Xiaohan smiled and said, his eyes a little long, and he thought of something in a daze, "Winter is coming soon, and spring will start tomorrow soon. Dingcheng must get through this cold winter as soon as possible."

"I think that although there is some chaos in the city, it is still quite orderly. Even if food purchases are restricted, given time, we should be able to calm down."

Li Xinhe remains optimistic about the future. But now he felt that every word Li Xiaohan said had profound meaning. Listen to this, does it mean that this cold winter is sad?

"No, there is no time, only this period of time. If I am not wrong, after this winter's rest, the prince will definitely take advantage of the victory to attack and send troops to the capital. The troops and horses have not been moved, food and grass have gone first, and the prince's palace cannot take care of the people. The people. We can only save ourselves."

"Only these merchants, large and small, who come and go can bring the supplies needed by the people from afar. This caravan in Qicheng is the first to be promoted by people who are willing to do it. Only if this caravan is successful will there be others behind it. Businessmen can rest assured that they will keep coming."

So this is the reason why Zhang Fu lured the Qicheng caravan over earlier. In order to promote this matter, he spent so much effort and suffered so much incomprehension.

Think about the original book, after King Ding went to war, the rolling chariots almost drained the life of the city under his jurisdiction.

Li Xiaohan only hoped that Zhang Fu's move would open an opening so that the two cities and even more cities in the future could exchange their needs, leaving some power for the people to thrive and rest.

Thinking of this, Li Xiaohan warned, "Chief, I think these two batches of goods are running out of time. We need to quickly arrange manpower for training. As soon as the raw materials are delivered, we will start construction immediately."

Several people on the side were shocked by the news. They felt that in the past, they only looked at the one-third of an acre of land in front of them, how shallow it was. Now, not only has my mental horizon opened up, I can play a significant role here, and I feel that I also have some role.

While he was in a trance, Li Xiaohan talked about the medicine shop. For a moment, he felt as if he didn't know where he was.

"Training, who else should I train?"

Patriarch Li, who was named, was a little confused at first, but then suddenly realized, his instinct to protect food took over for a moment, "You want our pharmacy to recruit outsiders? The secret recipe can easily be leaked."

Patriarch Li was extremely reluctant to give up. For a moment, he even forgot about the determination of the young man to give up his throne.

"They are not completely outsiders. For example, Li Damei, who comes from our clan and has interests related to our clan, it is okay to let them do some peripheral work." Li Xiaohan advised.

"Xiaohan, as long as this hole is opened, it will not stay the same, it will only get bigger and bigger. Everyone has selfish motives. We can't control married women like Li Damei like the clan members. Even if she is right There are feelings in our clan, but doesn't she have feelings for her parents-in-law and children? If you can't keep it, this gap should not have been opened in the first place. If it is opened, it will never be closed." Patriarch Li tried hard to persuade her.

"Clan leader, so what if I can't keep it. You see, along the way, I have never kept any secret recipe. But look, what I have gained now is not more than if I kept the secret recipe."

Li Xiaohan said seriously, "Clan leader, this world is a challenge and an opportunity. Don't just look at one person or a clan, look at the city, look at the world. If you want to take something, you must give it first, we want to To gain something, you have to pay more costs first."

Yes, even Patriarch Li, who knows the most about calculations, must admit that Li Xiaohan's current reputation, power, status, and wealth far exceed what he can earn from just keeping the secret recipe.

To take a step back, even if you can get more wealth by sticking to the secret recipe, wealth alone is a dangerous thing. Without the ability to protect it, too much wealth can only bring disaster.

But by losing some wealth, you can gain more, more hearts, more prestige, more opportunities...

Didn't it say that the prince will send troops to the capital in the spring next year? If the Li family, if they can get some opportunities, maybe the Li family can run a family in Dingcheng...

For a moment, Patriarch Li felt that his heart was about to jump out of his chest, and the blood all over his body was flowing hot.

"OK, done!"

The world may be coming like a torrent, but not everyone can only struggle to survive. There are always some trend-setters who stand at the forefront of the times. They not only want to protect themselves, but also hope to lead others to ride the blue waves along the way. And go.

=== Chapter === 203

Shitou Village is a small village outside Dingcheng. It is located on the only way from Pingshan Village to Fucheng. It is closer to Fucheng than Pingshan Village.

It stands to reason that villages close to big cities naturally have more advantages and will generally develop better.

Many years ago, the people of Pingshan Village had the advantage of being able to go back and forth to Fucheng in one day. They would leave early and come back late, and sell some local specialties. Over time, this would greatly improve their lives. Even Li Xiaohan started his career in Fucheng.

But this does not include Stone Village. Otherwise, Stone Village is truly a village full of stones.

If it's just big rocks, then making a living by quarrying them is not a bad way to survive. But Stone Village is just ordinary finely broken stones. They are neither large enough nor neat enough, nor beautiful enough. They are of no use except for arranging roads.

The best fields in Stone Village like this can only be rated as third-class dry fields after careful combing.

Even if the fields are barren, Shitou Village is not close to a river water source and can only drill wells. In the farming era, when there was no nearby water source, just relying on fetching water to cultivate a good field was a waste of time and effort, and even the strongest men in the village could not do it.

Therefore, everyone in Stone Village is extremely poor and always has to tighten their belts and be hungry until their eyes shine.

Fortunately, it has been passed down from ancestors that the men in the village have some skills as hunters, and they make a difficult living by helping each other hunt prey in the mountains.

However, this was all back then, and today's Stone Village is no longer what it used to be.

When you look at Stone Village from a distance, the first thing you notice is that the houses are in order and the roads are wide and smooth. They are made of green bricks and gray tiles, with scattered eaves. Even though a few of them are half masonry and half mudstone, they are still good and neat houses. Compared with the thatched houses of the past, they can be said to be in the sky and on the ground.

The most important thing is that there are a lot of people, cars and horses coming and going, and it is full of life. At first glance, it is a prosperous and prosperous place.

Not to mention outsiders, even the old residents of Shitou Village cannot believe that the people of Shitou Village, who were once so poor that they thought they would never have enough to eat, actually have such a day.

And this happened in just three years.

What happened in the past three years?

In front of the house at the front of the village, an old woman with gray hair and brown cotton clothes looked a little distracted at the scene in front of her.

How did all this happen?

However, more and more caravans came to Pingshan Village. They opened some guest houses in the village, planted some medicinal materials in the mountains behind the houses, and then...

"Old man, can I stay in a hotel here?" A fast horse galloped from the front. The man on the horse, with a dusty face, asked the old woman anxiously.

"Yes, yes, we have three large bed rooms and three large bunk rooms. How many rooms do you want, sir?" The old woman in the memory was interrupted from deep thought, and her face was filled with confusion. Armani smiled and replied.

The visitor who was about to come frowned slightly and seemed not very satisfied. However, after a moment of pause, he still compromised and said, "We all want these rooms. Prepare food and water for thirty people. I'll Our people will arrive in half an hour."

After that, he threw down a piece of silver and said, "My surname is Zhao, and this is the deposit."

As for whether you are afraid of having your deposit taken away. Hey, he has been to the area of Pingshan Village in Dingcheng so many times. He knows all about the villages on the way.

These guesthouses in Stone Village are all built out of their own houses. The whole family can live here, and the monks can escape but not the temple.

Besides, this is near Dingcheng, and there is one good thing about doing business: stability!

The route of travel is safe, and it is said that the bandits were severely suppressed by the army, and they lived peacefully along the way; the price of goods is stable and does not fluctuate much, so they do not have to worry about temporary price increases and losing money instead of making profits; People here do business safely, and there is no such thing as cheating, but it is much less common than in other places. Once it is confirmed, the local government will come forward to deal with it and bring justice to foreign merchants like them.

Therefore, not only are they not afraid of foreign merchants, but the locals will not ruin their reputation for this little bit of silver.

"Okay, Mr. Zhao." The person who came had a right hand, and the old woman caught it effortlessly.

"My home is called Shijiajia Guesthouse. You are right to come to our home. Although there are many villages nearby that sell guesthouses, the road in our Shitou Village is the widest and smoothest. It is very convenient to go to Pingshan Village or Fucheng. The house is also newly built, so it is comfortable to live in. If it weren't for the fact that a group of guests just left my house yesterday, these rooms would be empty. Don't come out. Although it is a bit crowded, now our prince, oh, look at my memory, after His Majesty is about to move the capital back to the city, there will be more and more people, and it will be crowded everywhere. "

Shi Quan is the name of this old woman who died.

"No, there are really too many people."

Mr. Zhao immediately agreed, not in a hurry to leave, but to inquire about the news: "You are so close. The medicine collection outside Pingshan Village will not change the day after tomorrow."

"No change, they have always opened every Friday. If there is no heavy rain or snow, it will basically not be rescheduled. Miss Li said, we can't let you come thousands of miles away and have to worry about it, time and price are not enough. It will change. If all of us who sell medicinal materials listen to Miss Li, you can rest assured, Mr. Zhao." The old woman replied with pride.

"Miss Li is naturally trustworthy. If anything, your place is better. The medicinal materials are the most abundant and the best, and the rules are clear. We who do business don't need to worry about price increases and decreases all the time."

The visitor was full of travel dust with a smile on his face

"No, we are not boasting. If you want to buy medicine, there is nothing wrong with coming to us."

The old woman smiled with pride and assured, "Don't worry, Mr. Zhao, you have come all the way. We will prepare food and water for you later, so that you can have a good rest and go back the day after tomorrow." Buy medicine."

"Trouble."

The businessman clasped his fists, then turned the horse's head and galloped away. It was not that he was being polite, but that around Dingcheng, every household really grew medicine and raised white wax. Maybe this old woman's family just happened to have some. The goods he needs. It is true that harmony brings wealth here .

Seeing the rudimentary businessman speeding away, the old woman hurriedly walked towards the village.

Their village was built according to the plan. There are houses on both sides of the T-shaped road. If you go in vertically in the middle, the old woman's house is the third house in the vertical shape. "Fourth brother and sister, daughter-in-law, hurry up, I'll pick up a bunch of them." The big guests, a total of thirty people, arrived in half an hour."

For a moment, several women who were busy in the room stopped what they were doing and looked surprised.

"Oh, business is really good during this period. Our house has only been empty for a day, and people are coming soon."

A woman about fifty years old smiled broadly and said, "Come on, let's get moving, those who clean, those who make porridge, and those who pick vegetables. The work is here."

The money is coming.

Several women of different ages walked out of the room, smiling and going about their business.

After the old woman helped her, she estimated that it was almost time, and continued back to the entrance of the village, waiting for the guests to lead the way - she was the oldest and had not raised herself well when she was young, so she was assigned the easiest place. manual labor.

This is a guesthouse run by several families. There was no way. It was too poor back then. Except for a dozen or so strong men who were very lucky to hunt in the mountains, the rest were taken away by the court. The rest were There are some old, weak, women and children.

Although we have more money now, we are used to working together and can't be separated.

The old woman hurried to the entrance of the village to wait for her guests. She arrived a little early, but the guests hadn't arrived yet, so she couldn't help but be lost in thought again.

When did these good days begin? To talk about it, I must mention the winter three years ago.

When that early winter came, it was so cold that it made people despair.

The family's money and food were confiscated, and the adult men were also confiscated by the court. Later, no one came back with information. Because they were expropriated by the imperial court, they didn't even receive any pension, leaving only a bunch of desperate old women and children in the village.

Fortunately, their village helped Pingshan Village light a beacon fire to report the news, and they got a few bottles of allicin.

They were reluctant to use this kind of good thing, so they gritted their teeth and took it all to the city to buy it at a high price, so that they could buy life-saving food.

There is an old sister-in-law in their village who married here from Pingshan Village. Her parents are gone, and even her brothers are gone. I heard that when the imperial army arrested people, the Li family in Pingshan Village gave The married woman who came to ask for help gave me some medicinal materials and taught her how to recognize them.

This old sister-in-law gave up her old face and went back to her parents' house to seek help from her nephew. She just wanted to find some medicinal materials to see if she could sell them for some money, so that she could at least fool the children and raise them.

Unexpectedly, this nephew was very good, so he begged for her to let her go to school, and he happened to meet Miss Li. Miss Li said that the location of their village was very good, and if any merchants came next spring, they could go there. Rent out your own house to earn some money.

Also, if they dig up medicinal materials, it is best to save some rhizome seeds and plant them in the mountains themselves. They can serve them like crops and they will grow again next year.

Don't be afraid that there will be too many people planting it. Pharmacists will only like it when there are too many people planting it.

At that time, no one really believed it. They had never heard of drug dealers coming to their hilly place. Besides, the world was in such a mess at that time that there were no merchants anywhere.

However, there is no other way. They have no other choice but this way. Besides, Miss Li is a very capable person. Why would she lie to people like them?

So I started to work half-heartedly. Unexpectedly, in the spring of the next year, merchants gradually came, but they were all coming to Pingshan Village.

Pingshan Village does not allow outsiders. It is said that the family has too many secret recipes and recommends guest houses in these villages to merchants.

It was very unsatisfactory at the beginning. The merchants all looked down upon the thatched houses in their village and found them uncomfortable. However, the merchants were still willing to stop and take a short break to provide livestock with fodder and water.

Most of the land in their village is dry land, and there are not many strong men who can't cultivate much fields. However, they gradually leveled the stones and applied to the government office to open a guest house, and it turned out to be a good fit.

Slowly, I built my reputation while doing it, and my business got better, and it became what it is now.

Since that time, the old sisters-in-law in the village have been determined to have a good relationship with their natal nephews. In fact, not only the married women, but also many relatives who are related to each other have gone back to learn how to collect and grow herbs. The same goes for the Li family in Pingshan Village. teach.

They also often advise us that the mountainous slopes near Dingcheng are suitable for planting mixed medicinal forests. We should not be afraid that if we plant too much, no one will harvest it. Only if we plant too much will there be an agglomeration effect and attract people.

Now, as was said at the time, Eucommia ulmoides and ash trees are planted in the forest in this area, and white striata, patchouli, etc. are planted under the trees, attracting a large number of drug dealers. A medicinal materials market is formed every five days outside Pingshan Village.

Not only the merchants of medicinal materials came, but also the merchants of white wax. Various merchants took away the medicinal materials and white wax that Dingcheng had, and brought what Dingcheng needed. Grain and money.

With a lot of people coming in, the income will go beyond just growing medicinal materials. Those who open guesthouses, sell food and tea, and those who help lead the way and act as intermediaries...

From then on, they slowly came back to life.

Thinking back to the past, the old woman couldn't help but get distracted again.

All the strong men in the village who were expropriated by the imperial court died. But a few of the group that the prince recruited earlier were lucky enough to survive. Now there is news that he will come back with His Majesty's move of the capital.

It's good to be alive, it's good to be back, everything is fine.

Sure enough, the older you get, the more you think about it. The old woman thought about it, her eyes slightly moist, and she always felt that such a good life was something that she never dared to think about in her dreams before, but she got it by herself.

Fortunately, the sound of horse hooves and wheels awakened the old woman from her wild thoughts, and she quickly cheered up.

"Old man, are the water and drinking water in our room ready?"

The businessman surnamed Zhao came with his own small caravan.

"Okay, okay, guests come with me." The old woman responded repeatedly and took the guests to her guest house.

After busy for a long time, helping to place the livestock and place the goods, we finally settled this group of guests.

Two days later, we arrived at Fengwu Herbal Medicine Market.

Early in the morning, when it was still dark, all the guesthouses in Stone Village were lit with bright candles. Nowadays, in addition to scented candles, ordinary white wax is commonly used in every household in Dingcheng. thing.

Anyway, I have more or less planted white wax trees and raised white wax worms. After several years of growth, the trees are now strong and the worms are fertilizing. It is the time for the big harvest. The most ordinary people are not willing to give up those first-, second-, and third-class products. After the white wax is sold, keep some fourth- and fifth-grade white wax for your own use.

What's more, if you open a guest house, you can't save candles. If it is dark and gray, it will make the guests unhappy.

Sure enough, the bright white wax put the businessman named Zhao and his party in a good mood when they got up early.

It's the end of July now, and the weather is still very hot. The dining table is placed in front of the main room, which is spacious and cool.

"Hurry up and have a full breakfast. Leave a few people to look at their own things while the others follow me to the medicine store."

"Brother, why are you so anxious? Isn't it customary not to worry that the medicinal materials won't be beautiful if they get wet with dew in the morning, so we don't put them on sale until now?"

"You really can't even keep up with the hot stuff when you eat shit. Although it's said to be on sale just now, people around here have been putting out their goods one after another. You won't be able to take your time shopping. Looking at other people's displays, if you like something you like, you can order it as soon as it goes on sale?!"

"Yes, what eldest brother said makes sense! As expected, we still have to rely on eldest brother's wisdom."

"It's useless to say anything, hurry up."

A group of big men hurriedly ate breakfast. After finishing the meal, they packed their money, carts and horses, and hurried slowly to Pingshan Village.

Along the way, we met many carriages and horses, including those with empty carriages and nearby villagers with medicinal materials wrapped in linoleum.

Soon we arrived at the main entrance of Pingshan Village, and from a distance we saw a surrounding semicircular earthen wall. It was solid and thick, with only a tall wooden door in the middle for entry and exit. It gave us a sense of security.

This is also a city wall with a story. It is said that the Li family in Pingshan Village relied on this earth wall to block the imperial army and kept their secret recipe.

Think about it, even after a long time, the blood is still boiling. We ordinary people are not oppressed at will.

There is a flat open space on the road in front of the main entrance. There are already many people hanging up linoleum cloth and setting up things in an orderly manner.

This group of caravans walked all the way with their guards. The more they looked at it, the more they felt that the medicine collection was getting better and better. Coming here was indeed the most correct thing to do.

"Brother, your dried mint is pretty good. It has fat leaves and strong roots, and is dark green in color. It's top quality. How much do you plan to buy for one tael?"

The caravan saw a house displaying very good dried mint, and hurried up to ask the price.

Dried mint is now a best-selling medicinal material, and the mint oil is a good thing: the main material of Tiger Balm can be made into mint-flavored scented candles that are most popular among readers, and many people like to keep them for infusion. Make tea.

"Thank you for the customer's compliments. Unfortunately, today's batch of dried mint has been reserved earlier and is now waiting for someone to pick it up."

The man arranging the goods laughed and said, "Guest, if you want to make a reservation, I will be able to ship out another batch in ten days. I am not boasting, but my mint is definitely top-notch. Guaranteed to be of the same quality."

"Forget it, I won't be able to come in ten days."

The merchant felt a little pity, but was not too anxious. This store's dried mint was good, but other people's were not bad either. From a distance, he saw that several stores in front of him also had it on display.

Speaking of which, it's really strange. God seems to be blessed with special favors for the people here. The medicinal materials grown are really good. They have strong medicinal properties and large quantities. I don't know what they are. If there is a secret, you are born to eat this bowl of rice.

The two families didn't mind if the business wasn't concluded. Anyway, one didn't have to worry about buying and the other didn't have to worry about selling.

Sure enough, after shopping around for two times, the drug dealer surnamed Zhao had already ordered several medicinal materials that he needed. He kept all of them by himself and waited until the market opened to make the orders immediately.

However, the largest number of people are still wandering around, looking more and more expectant as the sky gets brighter.

It wasn't just this one merchant, most of the merchants who came had this look on their faces, and they gradually gathered around the main entrance of Pingshan Village.

It was half past midnight, and the onlookers' faces were filled with anticipation. They heard the wall door in front of them creak and slowly be opened.

"Pingshan Village is shipping!"

Someone shouted loudly, and their mood instantly rose. Almost everyone stopped what they were doing and looked at the earthen wall door in front of them.

I saw people from Pingshan Village carrying different boxes filing out, waiting to be placed. One of them took out a stack of rice paper from his arms, cleared his throat, and sang loudly: "Master Chen from Qicheng, garlic Six boxes of vegetarian food, six boxes of Panax notoginseng styptic powder, ten jars of alcohol, and ten boxes of Tiger Balm."

In Pingshan Village today, although the shipment volume is still limited, the top-notch medicines can be released.

"We, it's us."

A rich man wearing silk clothes stood out from the crowd with a bright smile, his face full of pride, and he looked down upon the crowd.

The onlookers were also very cooperative, with envy on their faces.

Don't look at the few boxes. They are all square boxes one meter long, one meter wide and one meter high. The upper and lower sides are tightly protected with soft and thick rice cores. Layers of medicine bottles.

Such a box is worth a lot of money.

However, the most enviable thing about Mr. Chen is not this, but, "It is said that Mr. Chen is the only big customer who allows Miss Li to give up 10% of the profit? It's really enviable."

"Let's not talk about the big or bad. I heard that Renhetang is the biggest customer of the Li family, and Sanqi styptic powder is also supplied directly to the army. However, it is indeed the only one that offers a 10% discount. , it is said that it was a thank you and feedback to Mr. Chen and others for transporting food to us from Qicheng that year."

"I've also heard about this. Mr. Chen arrived just in time. Many businessmen came one after another, and many people survived by relying on these caravans. Unfortunately, the caravans were no longer available. I didn't get Ms. Li's discount."

"How about doing business? The first thing is to eat meat, the second thing is to drink soup, and the third thing is to chew bones. The first one always makes the most money."

"But I don't mind it either. It tastes great if you can drink the soup and chew on the bones."

"Isn't that the truth?"

While everyone was talking, Mr. Chen from Qicheng had finished inspecting the goods. It was a consistent rule that both parties paid for the goods and delivered the goods.

In fact, this product does not need to be tested, and there has never been any problem. I believe that even if there is a problem, the Li family will never lose money to them.

Unfortunately, Mr. Chen enjoys the envious gazes of everyone at this moment, and understands the importance of this link to his reputation, so he always does this step in a regular and long manner.

If he himself had something to do and was unable to be present in person, he would have repeatedly warned his confidants not to omit it.

Mr. Chen finished taking the goods and left first, "Next, six boxes of Qinggang Allicin, six boxes of Panax notoginseng styptic powder, ten jars of alcohol, and ten boxes of Tiger Balm."

The people from the Qinggang are also familiar faces. Brother Ma Wu, who first dealt with Li Xiaohan back then, is just that today Brother Ma Wu is no longer the fool he was back then. The idea of robbing Li Xiaohan and his daughter was deeply forgotten.

Today's Ma Wu Ge is the deputy gang leader under the leader Ye Gang of the Qing Gang. He is smart and discerning, and he is the first person to establish a connection with Pingshan Village. He is highly respected by the gang members.

"Brother Ma Wu, it's you who are here today. Didn't I say that you are still in the south? Why did you come back so silently? Let me tell you that we can have a drink together."

The people in Pingshan Village are also very familiar with Brother Ma Wu, and they can even recite a few homely sentences.

Brother Ma Wu's face quickly showed a smile, "I just rushed back yesterday, and our eldest brother is still working on the goods at the back. I'll come back first to arrange the arrangements, and we'll handle such a big event as His Majesty's relocation of the capital. I definitely have to come back. Let's have a drink someday. You said that after running outside for so long, I prefer our fried escargot. Other places don't have this taste. Pair it with ours. Pepper wine, a perfect match."

"No, we think so too."

"Miss Li, Miss Lotus, and the others are not here. We haven't seen each other for a long time."

Ma Wu deliberately mentioned Li Xiaohan, how about the only discount? Can it be as deep as their relationship?

"The white wax is about to be harvested, and Hehua has gone to help develop a new recipe. Xiaohan is even more busy, and there are a lot of things going on in the city."

"That's right, Miss Li is a person who does big things! I just wanted to ask."

The two gangs were chatting about their daily life while inspecting the goods. The onlookers couldn't help but talk about Li Xiaohan's family history, and occasionally mentioned that the Qing Gang and Li Xiaohan cooperated to sell pepper wine. past.

It perfectly met Brother Ma Wu's expectations, and Brother Ma Wu left the show satisfied.

"Next, Mr. Su."

Mr. Su is a very stable person. He was born in a wealthy family in the south of the Yangtze River. He is used to seeing wealth and prosperity, and he doesn't even bother to compare with the two nouveau riche, Mr. Chen and Ma Wu.

Sure enough, Mr. Su and his team were the fastest, calmest and most professional.

At the last moment, Mr. Su glanced at Mr. Chen and Ma Wu from the corner of his eye, and tried his best to suppress the excitement in his heart: His second son had been recognized by the Hehua girl's family for three years, and he was just waiting for the Hehua girl. Nod, and his second son can come in.

From then on, the second oldest child in his family was the son-in-law of the Li family, his family was the in-laws of the Li family, and he, Su Tianfu, was the father of Miss Li's cousin-in-law.

This is a real family, how can those two country bumpkins compare!

With a secret joy that no one could express, Mr. Su regretfully left the show.

"Next batch, equal price exchange, one box of allicin, need to replace camphor oil!"

This is a rule that gradually formed in Pingshan Village. Because there are many raw materials, the Li family cannot produce them themselves and can only buy them in the market.

With this kind of equal exchange, the Li family can get the goods they need, which also attracts many merchants.

Everyone wants to come and try their luck. You must know that allicin, Panax notoginseng styptic powder or alcohol are all good things with a price but no market. You may not be sure what Pingshan Village needs this time. You have it yourself. Maybe good luck will happen to you.

This move brought many businessmen, because no one could guess what goods the Li family needed to exchange each time, but everyone wanted to try their luck, which was also the prototype of this Five Medicine Collection - after all Not many are lucky, but look again, many medicinal materials around here are also very good. Buy, buy, buy!

"I, I do!" This time the lucky man shouted, his face turning red.

Soon someone welcomed him in, and the two parties started communicating about the quality and price of the goods. If the communication failed and an agreement could not be reached, the box of allicin would be released.

However, they can usually reach an agreement. After all, Pingshan Village's prices have always been fair, and the merchants who come and go are eager for Pingshan Village's medicines.

Everyone is familiar with it, so instead of making such extravagant hopes, it is better to look forward to the next round.

Sure enough, "A box of Panax notoginseng styptic powder needs good nitrate stone."

…

=== Chapter === 204

The drug dealer surnamed Zhao looked at this scene with envy, and secretly planted a seed in his heart: one day, he would also have a deal with the Li family here.

This is not impossible. Back then, he was just a small businessman. His Majesty captured the city where he was two years ago, so they came under the jurisdiction of the King Ding who is now His Majesty.

If they change their masters, they will change their masters. Anyway, the emperor above them was there at that time, and their life was not easy.

Even though war is always cruel to people like them, their money and goods have been confiscated by the court before the victory. It is a great blessing to survive, but the capital for business is gone.

I heard that Dingcheng offers great discounts to merchants, and there are also many best-selling medicinal materials.

He gritted his teeth, pawned the only heirloom shop, and decided to come to Dingcheng with a few brothers.

Unexpectedly, with this venture, things turned out to be extremely smooth. In the past two years, he has grown from a few people to dozens of people, and opened several more shops in his hometown.

The wealth of the family has already been dozens of times better than it was back then, and the original goal of coming to Dingcheng has been achieved. If we want stability from now on, we can just let the people below come and go. But on this trade route, he always had to walk it by himself every time, and he gained something new every time.

Now, he feels that he has a lot of lofty ideals. Everything has just begun. The future is full of hope. He must take advantage of this east wind and work hard to make this life worthwhile.

"It's gone, it's gone."

At the end of the morning, the goods in Pingshan Village were shipped out very smoothly, and the next transaction was even decided. It was the turn of the major merchants and medicine farmers.

The medicinal materials on display are diverse, with roots, stems, branches and leaves of various shapes and sizes, making it dazzling to choose from.

The druggist surnamed Zhao bought enough of his favorite goods and returned to the guest house with satisfaction.

"It's really an eye-opener. I have been studying medicine with my master for half a lifetime, and now I know that medicinal materials can be used like this, like the cabbage in the garden at home, for anyone to pick." A member of the caravan. The young man sighed.

He is a newcomer who was just brought out this year and is extremely new to everything.

"How many years have you lived? It's half your life in front of us." A middle-aged man in the caravan said with a smile, "Besides, most of their medicines are grown in the mountains, imitating wild plants, and their efficacy is half the same. How about that?" It can be said that it is just like the water cabbage at home."

After buying the medicinal materials they wanted, everyone felt relieved and in the mood to joke.

"It means that it seems, almost the same. Besides, half a lifetime is also half a lifetime. Our eyes have been opened this time." The young man said with unabashed envy, "It's a pity that I didn't see Miss Li. I heard about Li The girl is a very clever and intelligent person. She is naturally good at planting and refining medicines. She is in our line of work. I really want to meet her and get some exposure. Didn't I say before I came that Miss Li is approachable and it is very likely that I will meet her? Of?"

"I also heard that Miss Li can often be seen in the medicine market, but I heard that people from Pingshan Village went to Fucheng to work on pewter business. Maybe we are not lucky." Someone regretted. Interface Road.

"In the past, you could often see Miss Li at the medicine market. When we were growing medicine, we didn't understand this or that, so we just waited to ask Miss Li during the fifth market. Miss Li never He didn't hide his secrets, and taught him very carefully. Later, everyone got used to it and asked fewer questions. However, Miss Li always had to help us look at the medicine we grew so that we could have a clear understanding of it. That's why. It is said that Miss Li can often be seen at the medicine market." The old woman happily served tea and answered these businessmen with a smile.

"It's just an unfortunate time for us to come here. Miss Li is very busy during this period. The ash trees planted a few years ago have been growing for three or four years. Now they have grown and can be used to raise ash worms. Especially This year, the weather is good and the pewter harvest is good. Miss Li went to the city to study pewter to see if there is any way to avoid the excessive wax and low price of wax and hurt the farmers, and to satisfy the merchants. In this way Everyone makes money and is satisfied."

The drug dealer surnamed Zhao and the others were dumbfounded. They had never thought of this angle before, or that someone would be willing to help them think of it to this extent.

For a moment, no one spoke.

After a long time, someone murmured, "In recent years, many medicinal materials have become cheaper and cheaper, but our caravan has always been profitable. Thinking about it now, it's just that there were only a few in the past. Expensive medicinal materials have become abundant and sold cheaply. Because the quality is better and the quantity is greater, the poor can afford the medicine and will not just wait to die. After calculation, our total profit is still more. "

"No, in the past, we guards could not prepare enough wound medicine, but now we have all prepared, and we have the confidence to eat with a knife." The guard hired by the caravan interjected.

"Not to mention those of us who grow medicine. Although the prices are getting cheaper year by year, our lives are getting better and better visible to the naked eye." The old woman couldn't be more satisfied with her current life. Satisfied.

Pharmacist Zhao slapped his thigh and said, "That's it. Let's stay for a few more days and go to Fucheng to explore whether there are any new business opportunities for the white wax."

Didn't it mean that there was a bumper harvest of white wax this year? It also opened their eyes.

Maybe, we can also see Miss Li.

Otherwise, I always feel like my trip was in vain.

"Masters, we have an agreement here in Dingcheng. If you have nothing to do, please don't come forward to disturb Miss Li, otherwise you will be easily excluded." The old woman reminded carefully, "I will just say a few words, so that everyone will not know. Tao violated a taboo."

"Understood, let's just take a look secretly and not come forward to disturb you."

It doesn't seem very appropriate to say this. A bunch of big men secretly looking at other girls, it's a little bit vulgar!

Forget it, never mind, they just met by chance, by chance!

Li Xiaohan, who was missed by everyone, is now so busy in the government office that his eyes are red.

But fortunately, the hard work is worth it.

"With the addition of this process, the white wax flowing out from the second step will have a purer texture, which will be taught to the farmers. The government agencies should also pay attention to the price difference of different grades of white wax when purchasing."

"We also experimented some time ago. Adding high-quality white wax to papermaking makes the paper smoother and smoother. It can also be used in cloth printing and dyeing to make the coloring more shiny. Everything. Write it down and put it on record for adults to discuss and decide."

"Yes, Mr. Li."

Unlike the people who spontaneously called Li Xiaohan "Miss Li" to show their affection, and the Ministry of War who confused Li Xiaohan as one of their own, the officials of the Ministry of Industry always showed extra respect and obedience to Li Xiaohan who was seconded.

Without him, it is always easier for people who are engaged in technology to understand the weight.

The government office at this time is still very efficient, especially when His Majesty is about to move the capital back to the city. No one wants to cause the price of pewter to plummet and the wax farmers to cry out at this time.

Your Majesty is embarrassed at this time. Your Majesty can make them, the left-behind officials, lose their lives.

Therefore, it is one way to release the news first to stabilize people's hearts, and it is another way for the government to find ways to cover up the situation. Now more uses of white wax can be discovered, and with the secret recipe in hand, the government is not afraid of getting these white wax in its hands.

After Li Xiaohan finished doing his own thing, he also let go of a heavy burden.

It cannot be said that she is completely selfless. She has developed a little faster in the past few years, and her secret recipe business will always make some people jealous. She didn't have any long-term interest network to protect her in the court, so she could only focus on the people's hearts and seek a talisman for herself.

Besides, in the past few years, she has deeply felt how difficult it is for ordinary people to live a stable and good life, and how easy it is to destroy it. Since you can do hello to me and everyone, why wouldn't she do it?

Most of it was knowledge passed down to her by her ancestors. Now that she is back here, the knowledge passed down to her ancestors is also another kind of perfection.

Li Xiaohan, who was relieved of his heavy burden, boarded the carriage with all his tiredness, and was finally able to go home and rest.

It's not that she doesn't want to ride a horse, but she knows very well why she shouldn't drive when she's tired, and she can still squint for a while in the car.

There were so many people in the city that the carriage couldn't move fast at all, and it swayed so much that Li Xiaohan nodded in a daze.

"Miss Li."

Suddenly there was a sound, as if someone had stopped him, and then after two breaths, another old voice shouted anxiously, "Miss Li, I really have something to ask you. Please, Please!"

Li Xiaohan was completely woken up by the shouting. He shook his head to stop his confusion and then put his head out, "Old Uncle Zhong, what's wrong?"

Before the old Uncle Zhong who was driving could speak, a shabby old man who was kneeling on the ground stood up suddenly, took out a candle two fingers wide and as long as his hand, and begged, "Miss Li, Miss Li, please help me." Look at my wax, how is my wax?"

I'm asking about wax.

Old Uncle Zhong looked at the old man up and down, and saw that he was just an ordinary farmer, and that he did not have any basic skills in his actions, so he relaxed a little bit of vigilance.

Li Xiaohan got off the carriage, took the candle from the old man's hand, and observed it carefully, "It's golden in color, shiny and has a faint sweet fragrance. This is a fine honey candle. What's wrong with it?" question?"

Hearing Li Xiaohan's praise, the old man's face full of vicissitudes of life showed a relieved smile, "Ours is beeswax that has been boiled and filtered three times. There is no candle smoke after lighting, and the smell is sweet and fragrant. Miss Li , what do you think of my skills?"

Listening to it, just like those worried farmers asking questions, old Uncle Zhong turned his mind away slightly, looked around, and then motioned to Qingsong behind him, and the two of them guarded him one after the other.

"Very good." Li Xiaohan nodded in agreement. She came here to study white wax, which is quite sophisticated, but this old man's honey candle, judging from its appearance, is considered top-notch craftsmanship.

"What about Miss Li's skills? How about learning to make white wax candles?" the old man asked sincerely.

"Of course there's no problem. You have the skills to make candles, so there's no need to worry." Li Xiaohan encouraged. I guessed in my heart that maybe he was an old-time candle maker from afar. I didn't have the confidence, so I asked myself specifically.

"How do you compare with other candle makers? How do you compare with government candle makers?"

"There is something different. Although your traditional beeswax candle making is excellent, the output is rare. White wax is different. The advantage of white wax is that it is large in quantity and convenient. But you don't have to be afraid, Dingcheng Fuya has it. Specialized people will teach you how to refine white wax and then make candles."

"That's true. But if there are too many people who know how to sell it, the price won't be high..." The old man's face became sad again, and he muttered to himself.

Li Xiaohan probably understood what he meant. In the past, candle making was a very advanced craft, and skilled candle makers specialized in serving wealthy families, and the prices were high. Nowadays, white wax has entered thousands of households around Dingcheng and will continue to spread in the future.

This old man is old, so it's normal that he can't accept it for a while.

Li Xiaohan was thinking about how to comfort the old man, but the old man didn't seem to need her comfort, muttering and immersed in his own world. Suddenly he stretched his hands forward, "Miss Li, help me look at my honey candle again. This is the best honey candle. It must be different, right? Right!"

Li Xiaohan instinctively felt that something was wrong, so he quickly blocked it with both hands and stepped back quickly.

However, the old man looked older, but his hands moved very quickly. He quickly stretched out a slender dagger from his beeswax. Although he did not stab Li Xiaohan, the blade still cut through Li Xiaohan's blocking palm. .

It only pricked a wound, and with a clang, the dagger fell to the ground. Old Uncle Zhong unsheathed his sword and subdued the old man to the ground.

There is no blockage from any formal moves. He is not a specially trained killer. At most, he is an ordinary person with quick hands and feet. The reason why he can succeed with one strike is because they were deceived by him before and were not wary.

What's the origin?

Old Uncle Zhong pressed down on the struggling old man, wondering in his heart, but at the moment there was another matter that was more urgent. He turned around and asked, "Miss Li, what's wrong with you? Is the wound numb, does it hurt?"

The wound is visually very small, but the biggest fear is that it may be poisonous.

"It hurts, but it's not numb." Li Xiaohan raised his hand. Both she and Old Uncle Zhong reacted very quickly. There was only a shallow scratch on the palm of the hand, and there was not much blood.

Qingsong had already stepped forward to check Li Xiaohan's wound, and was worried about squeezing out the blood.

When it comes to identifying poison by looking at it, guards like Qingsong who have been trained since childhood know better. Old Uncle Zhong turned his head and tortured the old man, "Who sent you here? What do you want to do?"

The old man did not answer, nor did he look at Old Uncle Zhong. Instead, he stared at Li Xiaohan closely and shouted crazily, "You said that my honey candles are very good, but they cannot be sold at the previous price. Why? You They also say that my honey candle is excellent, so it's not my problem. If it's not my problem, then whose problem is it? It's your problem. It's your problem! It's all your fault for making this white wax cheap on Tongda Street goods!"

"That crazy man, what are you talking nonsense about? It's obviously your own problem." The passerby next to him came to his senses, hurried forward and shouted loudly.

"Miss Li, are you okay?" Someone else surrounded Li Xiaohan and asked with concern.

Li Xiaohan looked at the old man crying and laughing, as if he was crazy, and seemed to have a deep hatred for her, but she really had no impression of this old man, and became more and more puzzled, "You hate me? Don't you want to learn how to make white wax?" ? No, you want to learn, but what you want more is that candles are less expensive."

His head was a little drowsy. It was because he didn't sleep enough and his brain couldn't move fast enough. Li Xiaohan shook his head and said, "Where are you from, an old-time candle maker? You..."

Li Xiaohan only felt his head getting more and more dizzy. The people and scenery in front of him gradually became like water shadows, blurred, as if someone was calling his name. In the end, he just felt light-headed and his eyes were dark, and he no longer knew anything. .

"Miss Li, Miss Li." Old Uncle Zhong looked tense. He had already knocked the old man unconscious. Qingsong supported Li Xiaohan.

"What kind of poison?" At this moment, if you can't see that there is nothing wrong with the old man's dagger, you'd be stupid.

They actually capsized in this gutter!

"If you can't see it, you need to see a doctor immediately." Qingsong said anxiously. This poison is colorless and odorless. He has already squeezed out the blood from the wound, but it still attacks so quickly. He has never heard of it. Have seen Have .

"It's too late." Old Uncle Zhong looked solemn.

It took too long to wait until I returned home to see the doctor.

Without any time to think, Old Uncle Zhong immediately tore off the strips of cloth from his body and tied Li Xiaohan's injured hands and arms tightly to prevent the venom in the blood from flowing upwards.

Then he turned his right hand, turned the blade, and in the blink of an eye, he cut off the skin and flesh around Li Xiaohan's wound.

With this knife, a piece of flesh was cut off from the palm that originally had only a scratch. The metacarpal bone was almost visible, and blood was flowing like a stream.

As this was not enough, Old Uncle Zhong squeezed hard to squeeze out the blood around the wound.

In their army, this is how they treat poisonous injuries. It's simple, rough, and quick, and it just hurts.

But even with such huge pain, Li Xiaohan didn't react at all and was still unconscious.

Old Uncle Zhong and Qingsong's hearts became increasingly heavy.

At this time, the people around him reacted from the huge panic and rushed here layer by layer.

"Miss Li, what's wrong with Miss Li?"

"Don't crowd. Spread out! You can't breathe." Old Uncle Zhong shouted sternly without raising his head.

As expected, the crowd did not dare to get closer, and the people in the inner circle retreated out, but refused to go far.

Some people's tears fell quickly.

While talking, Old Uncle Zhong continued to squeeze the blood. After another cup of tea, Old Uncle Zhong took out a bottle of medicinal powder from his arms and quickly poured it on the wound to stop the bleeding.

After simply tying up the wound, Old Uncle Zhong quickly put Li Xiaohan into the carriage, picked up the knife on the ground, wrapped it with a cloth, and put it in his arms.

Qingsong also put the fainted old man on the horse. At this time, the fastest way to find the antidote is to start with this person.

"Get out of the way. Drive!"

The two of them hurried away.

The crowd quickly got out of the way, but for some reason they all ran fast behind the carriage. They all knew that a man could not outrun a horse.

After all, people can't beat fast horses, but the flow of people is not decreasing at all. Many passers-by even heard it and anxiously joined the chasing team.

"Go find Dr. Zhang from Renhetang and ask him to go to General Zhang's house immediately. Tell him that Miss Li is injured. Urgent!" Old Uncle Zhong shouted to the crowd.

I went to the General's Mansion because the General's Mansion has a ready-made doctor who at least knows the basics better than the doctors outside.

The reason why I looked for Dr. Zhang is because Dr. Zhang has a restless personality and is very likely to be out visiting for medical treatment or looking for medicine, and he cannot determine his location for a while.

But Dr. Zhang's medical skills are second to none, and he is the most reliable. He must be found as soon as possible.

The crowd behind him heard it, and the quick-reacting young man immediately turned around and ran towards Renhetang.

The carriage gradually moved away, leaving behind a panicked crowd that could not keep up.

The aura of panic, starting from this circle, quickly began to spread to the surrounding areas.

Li Xiaohan felt dizzy, as if she had forgotten many things, but in her current situation, she really couldn't remember what she had forgotten.

All she knew was that she had encountered an earthquake, was trapped, and was waiting for rescue.

Fortunately, the triangle of the toilet she hid in was quite stable. She also took half a bottle of water when she hid in, allowing her to survive till now; unfortunately, she I injured my hand at that time, and the wound must have been inflamed, and now it is burning hot.

Inflammation, lack of water, hunger, and exhaustion made her feel dizzy and floating in the air.

But she couldn't faint. If she fainted, she might not be able to wake up.

It had been three days, she had been suffering for three days, and she had heard the sound of rescue outside, and occasionally someone was calling her name.

High fever requires more water. No matter how much she treasured the half bottle of water in her hand, she had already finished it. Now she was on fire and her throat could not make any sound at all.

But every time she heard someone calling her name, she would always raise her uninjured left hand and hit the plastic bottle in the bathroom with the mineral water bottle, making a sound to call her. The voice responded.

There is someone here, and she is still alive! Don't give up on her!

The golden rescue time in an earthquake is limited, and rescuers are in short supply. Once she loses her voice, it is very likely that the people who are rescuing her will give up and go to rescue other people who are more likely to survive. of people.

She doesn't want to die! She wants to live ! She couldn't give up any opportunity.

So even if she was dizzy from the fever, Li Xiaohan had a part of her mind that was trying to keep her calm and respond to every call with the greatest strength.

Therefore, from the perspective of the guardians Li Xiandong and Wang, every time Li Xiaohan's name was called, they could always feel Li Xiaohan's left hand moving and responding.

Mrs. Wang held Li Xiaohan's intact left hand and kept stroking it carefully, occasionally calling Li Xiaohan's name to make sure it could still move.

Li Xiandong hugged Li Xiaoshuang and sat next to him, staring closely at Li Xiaohan's face, afraid of missing any movement.

All three people's eyes were red and swollen, and they looked haggard.

"Master Li, Mrs. Li, our second young master is back."

=== Chapter === 205

Before Li Xiandong and Wang could react, Zhang Fu had already strode in.

When Li Xiaohan was poisoned, Old Uncle Zhong immediately sent him to Zhang Mansion. This decision was very wise. At least the government doctor saw him right away. There was no shortage of medicinal materials in Zhang's residence and he was immediately given an antidote.

Doctor Zhang, who received the news, also arrived.

It's a pity that the two of them couldn't find out what kind of poison Li Xiaohan had been poisoned. If you can't find out what kind of poison you have been hit by, you can't detoxify it, so you can only try to survive.

At that time, such a large general's mansion had no owner. Mrs. Zhang was in poor health and had been recuperating in the hot spring village all year round. The Zhang family, father and son, were all by His Majesty's side, preparing to move the capital back to the city.

Therefore, Li Xiandong's family lived in Zhang Mansion for three days and had not yet met the owner of Zhang Mansion. Even though Li Xiaohan had received the best treatment at the time, the family still had no backbone.

Seeing that Zhang Fu was back, Li Xiandong and Wang stood up excitedly and looked at Zhang Fu with hope in their eyes.

They lived in the Zhang Mansion because they wanted to use the power of the Zhang Mansion to get better doctors to treat Li Xiaohan.

I just hate my own powerlessness as a parent.

"Second Young Master, please, please, please save our Xiaohan." Before Zhang Fu could speak, Wang could not help crying and begged.

She knew that there was something going on between Zhang Fu and her daughter. In the past few years, Li Xiaohan had never taken off the hairpin on his head.

Mrs. Wang was once worried that Qi Dafei was not a good match, and she was also worried that the two would gradually become disillusioned after not seeing each other for a long time. However, Li Xiaohan was much more capable and wise than Mr. Wang, who had thousands of heads. I had no idea how to start talking about it, and in the end I just didn't talk about it at all.

Now, Mrs. Wang desperately hopes that Zhang Fu will think more about her daughter and have a deeper affection for her daughter.

However, Zhang Fu, who used to be very polite in the past, turned a deaf ear to Wang's words at this moment. He even seemed like he couldn't see anyone else. He walked straight to Li Xiaohan's bed without stopping at all.

The cut palm has been re-bandaged, wrapped in a thick bandage, and placed next to the bed. His hair was covered with black hair and draped down his sides, making his face look pale and almost transparent as he was sleeping.

It was so quiet that it gave people the illusion that they would never wake up again.

It was as if a hand pinched his heart hard. The huge pain and fear made Zhang Fu stop.

Those expectations that have been suppressed for a long time, the secret surprises in the middle of the night, the pleas and promises that have always been unspoken because of the current situation, were suddenly shattered, shattered, and turned into pieces at the last moment of success. mud.

What is it for? Is fate so unfair?

"Xiaohan."

This suppressed call seemed to have exhausted all the strength in the body, but it came out softly and sadly, with a prayer from the depths of the soul.

Please, answer me, please!

The man on the bed moved his left hand slightly, as if to say yes.

"She's moving. Come here, call the doctor!" Zhang Fu turned his head in ecstasy and shouted outside.

"If you call her name, her hand will move, but she won't wake up." Wang couldn't bear it, but she could only tell the truth cruelly.

Sure enough, except for the slight movement of his left hand just now, the person lying on the bed returned to death-like silence and no longer responded.

Hope is like a mirage that a thirsty traveler sees in the desert. When it is revealed, all the vitality and strength are taken away. There is even a moment of confusion and confusion on Zhang Fu's face.

But after all, it was only for a moment. Zhang Fu frowned and woke up. It seemed that he was in extreme pain, but he forced himself to accept the reality.

Slowly sitting down on the bedside, Zhang Fu gently held Li Xiaohan's uninjured left hand, feeling cold in his hand. He quietly looked at the person sleeping on the bed, sitting like a silent statue. No one knew this moment. What was he thinking about.

After another cup of tea, the last words spoken were calm and unquestionable, "Don't worry, I will find a way to save you, I will save you."

Li Xiaohan was still sleeping unconsciously on the bed, while Li Xiandong and Wang next to him were like drowning people grasping at straws.

"Second Young Master." Doctor Zhang and the doctor rushed over quickly. As soon as Zhang Fu came back, he went straight to Li Xiaohan, but the servant informed them that they arrived even later.

Zhang Fu gently put down Li Xiaohan's hand, tucked in the quilt, stood up, turned around and whispered to Li Xiandong and Wang, "Uncle, aunt, I'm going to find a solution now."

"Hey, hey." Li Xiandong and Wang nodded with tears in their eyes and watched Zhang Fu leave.

After leaving the room, he went straight to the study. After a short journey, Zhang Fu strode away. His sadness and calmness quickly faded away, and he was surrounded by an aura of depression and violence. Just one look from his back was frightening. .

When he arrived at the study, Zhang Fu's face was already darkened, "What's the situation now? How did you do things?"

This is the second son of the General's Mansion who has carved his way out on his own. He is His Majesty's confidant who is in charge of hundreds of thousands of military supplies and has never made any mistakes.

The calm indifference, condescending ruthlessness, and the pressure of power that easily determines life and death are all coming at you, suffocating.

The doctor lowered his head first and did not dare to answer. He only dared to look at Doctor Zhang quietly from the corner of his eye.

Doctor Zhang did not retreat. He and Li Xiaohan were friends who were both teachers and friends for many years. At this moment, Doctor Zhang hated himself even more for his poor medical skills. Doctors have communicated with each other and have never heard of such a silent and rapid poison. Fortunately, Miss Li's condition has been temporarily controlled and her life will not be in danger in a short time."

"It's just," Doctor Zhang sighed, "we still have to find the antidote as soon as possible, otherwise the consequences will be unpredictable."

"Have you seen the imperial doctor?"

"I privately asked Dr. Ning from the palace to come and take a look, but he couldn't tell."

None of the masters in the Zhang Mansion were present, and the servants could not enter the palace. Fortunately, Doctor Zhang and Dr. Ning had exchanged medical skills in the past and had a good personal relationship, so they were able to invite Dr. Ning privately.

And Imperial Physician Ning was already the best in medical skills in the palace at that time. Imperial Physician Ning had no choice but it was even more difficult for other doctors.

Although he was not satisfied with the result, Zhang Fu was still the fastest to find a solution at this moment, "His Majesty's holy cavalry has already set off. I will write to you later to ask your Majesty to send the imperial doctor back to the city first. Doctor Zhang, you have to promise not to leave until then." Something will go wrong."

The imperial physician accompanying the Holy Master was naturally the imperial physician with the lastest medical skills in the dynasty, and the imperial physician Ning was also incomparable.

It's just that it will take time for the imperial doctor to come back. How can Dr. Zhang guarantee matters of life and death?

But at this time, Zhang Fu looked rational, but he was already the most unreasonable family member.

Doctor Zhang had no choice but to agree first, "I will try my best."

The doctor on the side did not dare to speak out, but secretly muttered in his heart: Your Majesty has already set off for such a big event as moving the capital, but the second young master actually ran back first regardless of everything. He just ran back to pay him back, but he actually dared to send someone back to ask for the imperial doctor.

The doctor thought about it in his mind and felt that the person Jian was talking about in Sacred Heart was their second son, otherwise he would not dare to act so recklessly.

If the master of the house does well, the servants like them will follow the chickens and dogs to heaven.

However, the more you pay attention to it, if the person lying on the bed can't get better, you may really have to go to heaven.

The doctor lowered his head, trying to reduce his presence.

No one paid attention to him at this moment, because Doctor Zhang spoke again, "The fastest way is to let the person who made the poison speak. The only way to detoxify is to first detoxify. You can't say for sure, but you can find it. Ready-made antidote."

Obviously everyone agrees with this truth. Zhang Fu turned his eyes to Old Uncle Zhong, "Did you recruit?"

"Not yet. He's been sentenced, but the old man is still tight-lipped."

Old Uncle Zhong felt guilty. Not only did he fail to guard against the person, he couldn't even ask, "Currently, it was found that this old man came to the city a few days ago. He was originally the royal candle maker of the Imperial Mansion in the old capital. He has been keeping bees and making wax candles in the Imperial Mansion. Later, His Majesty came to Beijing and there was chaos in the old capital. The Imperial Mansion was affected. For some reason, he ended up here."

"People from Emperor Shang? Instructed by the Yi Party?"

Emperor Shang is the former great-grandson, the late emperor who was just deprived of the throne by His Majesty. Today, he was very stingy and gave his nephew a sad title.

The remnant party is the remnant force that still supports Emperor Shang wholeheartedly and tries to take revenge.

"The evidence found so far may not be true."

Old Uncle Zhong unexpectedly denied it, "We checked his movements, and no one contacted him. He came to Dingcheng, and it seems that he got separated when the world was in chaos. A man came to see Miss Li just by following the crowd."

After hesitating for a moment, Old Uncle Zhong added, "He is extremely persistent in making candles. When he was semi-conscious, he vaguely said that if it weren't for Miss Li, he wouldn't be afraid of this world with his candle-making skills. You can do it all over again."

This is what the current evidence points to, the old man's motive for assassinating Li Xiaohan.

However, this explanation is so coincidental that it is unconvincing, and it is still full of doubts.

"I'll go and see for myself."

Obviously, Zhang Fu didn't believe it either.

A cage made of huge stones, with wooden railings separating the cells.

In the tightly closed and oppressive space, no daylight can penetrate. In the darkness, only the brazier in the middle shines a little light. The dull air is filled with the smell of blood, and there is a faint smell of the strange burnt meat. fragrant.

"Second Young Master, this way."

The respectful voice broke through the dullness, and the light of the torch led everyone to a cell, and also illuminated the hanging figure in the cell.

Zhang Fu looked at the criminal in front of him and had already despised this person a thousand times in his heart.

"Just after being branded, this madman's bones are actually very hard." The jailer explained in a low voice, "When he takes a rest, the brothers will give him another big dish."

Xu's voice woke up the prisoner.

The drooping head raised up and looked at the crowd with a crazy smile, "Don't even think about asking anything from me. I, Old Yuan, can pull you, Miss Li, off your horse. This life is enough for me." Hahaha."

There is no trace of the miserable old farmer anymore, he has completely turned into a madman.

"Pah, pah!" What he responded to was a brutal whipping from the jailer, with the spiked barbs of the whip hooking up tiny bits of flesh and blood flying everywhere.

"I used to keep bees in the mountains and collect wax to make candles, and I have never experienced any hardships. If you can, kill me, kill me."

The severe whipping and intense pain made the prisoner even crazier and instinctively struggled desperately.

The shouting became lower and lower, and when it reached a certain critical point, the jailer stopped.

"I won't kill you. As long as you hand over the antidote and reveal the behind-the-scenes instructions, I will spare your life. How about that?" Zhang Fu moved forward slightly and said seductively.

"Who are you?" He raised his lowered head and asked in a hoarse voice.

"I am Zhang Fu, the second son of the General's Mansion and the left minister of the Ministry of Household Affairs."

"Are you the Second Young Master Zhang? I asked you, it was the two of you who made the white wax like this. It's a pity that I can't kill you, but it looks good now."

The prisoner's words were intermittent and he was breathing heavily, "Kill me, and that little girl won't be able to live. Hahaha, no one else knows about that kind of poison except me. If I die, you can't find the antidote." ."

Zhang Fu stood up straight slightly, as if tempting, but also disdainful, "You are dead and I can't find the antidote?"

The prisoner seemed afraid that if he spoke too much he would make a mistake, so he did not speak again.

Seeing this, the jailer cracked his whip again. The prisoner who was struggling just now was no longer able to struggle.

"Don't worry, you won't die so quickly. We have medicine that will make you live longer. You won't be relieved so easily."

In the dim light, Zhang Fu's calm words were like the whisper of an evil ghost, "Aren't you the most proud of your candle-making method? Don't worry, I will help you dig it out and pass it on to everyone, soon It will become like a rotten street."

"When the time comes, just take your time and watch."

"Nonsense, I am the only one who knows how to make candles. My death will not come easy to you."

In the silent darkness, Zhang Fu smiled softly, "You don't need to tell me, this is not a problem at all for us. The principles are always the same. There are only a few secret recipes left, so we can guess it." "

The prisoner struggled violently and wanted to say something, but in the end nothing came out. He just lowered his head and couldn't see anything.

Zhang Fu seemed not to care but never let go of it, until finally the prisoner had no reaction at all, and then he left quietly, leaving only the cage that returned to darkness.

After leaving the cell and returning to the bright daylight, they could not drive away the chill in everyone's hearts.

"Send more manpower to re-examine how he came from Jiujing and who he came into contact with along the way. And find his family members for me. I don't believe that this person has no shortcomings at all. All he wants to do is kill people and die."

"Yes. Second Young Master."

Starting from Dingcheng, scouts, spies and soldiers from all walks of life rushed away with their missions, and carrier pigeons flew back in an endless stream from a distance. The pile of information in Zhang Fu's study is getting higher and higher, he is getting thinner and thinner every day, and he talks less and less in front of Li Xiaohan's bed every day.

Two days later.

"Second Young Master, find the prisoner's wife and daughter."

=== Chapter === 206

"Second Young Master, we found the prisoner's wife and daughter."

"Let's go." Zhang Fu stood up suddenly and asked as he walked, "What did you ask?"

"The women in this family are in awe of the old man. After asking about it, they separated after the old capital was captured. They don't know what happened next." Old Uncle Zhong said, leading Zhang Fu.

The two of them came to another cell. The environment here was slightly better than that for heavy-duty prisoners. Seeing someone coming, the two women hugged each other tightly and stared at everyone with fear on their faces.

"Second Young Master, do you want it?" Old Uncle Zhong asked tentatively in a low voice.

Zhang Fu looked at the two women, his brows furrowed slightly, and finally he nodded slightly.

However, after one round of punishment, no useful news was obtained. It's just that the old woman is the prisoner's stepwife, and the young woman is the biological daughter, but there is also a biological son from the original wife, so the two of them are not taken seriously.

During the turmoil in Old Beijing, the two women were separated from their families. They had never seen the prisoner and had no idea where he was.

It's almost the same as what was originally asked.

"How true do you think they are?"

"About nine points. The ones we transferred here are experts in punishment. These two women don't seem to have been trained. They should be telling the truth." Old Uncle Zhong frowned and expressed his thoughts.

After Zhang Fu listened, he didn't speak any more. He seemed to have some guesses in his heart and seemed to be thinking about something.

"Second Young Master, do you want to continue?"

Zhang Fu did not immediately answer whether he wanted to or not, but continued to think.

After a while, "Treat their injuries, let them have a good meal, and then send them to the same cell as the old man. Create opportunities for the old man to kill them, and save them at the last moment."

"Yes, Second Young Master." Old Uncle Zhong responded. After hesitating for a moment, he asked, "Are you trying to drive a wedge between them? What if the old man doesn't do it?"

"What he values does not include the mother and daughter. Otherwise, they would not be separated at the beginning. If suspicion arises, he will definitely take action. Besides, if he takes action, he can prove something; if he does not take action, there are other uses."

"Yes." Old Uncle Zhong responded, but there was still a trace of doubt in his heart: "But, since they are not taken seriously, what important news can these two women know?"

"Don't underestimate women, especially the person you sleep with. Maybe she knows more than she thinks. We just give her a push."

Some secrets may just be considered secrets to the person next to you.

Old Uncle Zhong said nothing and went to execute it immediately.

The two mother and daughter who were locked in the cell were taken out. There was no longer a frightening punishment. Instead, several maids came to take them to wash themselves, see a doctor, and eat a sumptuous meal.

This behavior made the two mothers and daughters even more uneasy. They heard that the meal after death was always particularly rich.

But no matter how much they begged, the servant who served them didn't say anything they wanted.

The two mothers and daughters were very worried and were taken into another cell.

"father."

"The boss."

Seeing the person lying on the straw mat in the cell, the mother and daughter screamed in surprise.

The prisoner lying on the bed opened his eyes. Since the arrival of Mr. Zhang, the punishments have continued, but there has also been a doctor and medicine.

He knew in his heart that this medicine was not to treat his injuries, but to hang his life and make him feel the pain that would make life worse than death for a longer period of time.

There is always a jailer tempting him between life and death. As long as he speaks out, he will be let go.

He knew very well that it was just an eagle.

The old man narrowed his eyes slightly and looked at the two people for a long time. Fang asked in a hoarse voice, "Why are you here?"

There was no concern, as if I didn't expect to see the two mother and daughter questioning me here.

"Master, what's wrong with you?" The old woman seemed to be used to it, and she stepped forward and asked tremblingly.

The old man didn't answer. He moved his nose quietly and smelled the smell of medicinal materials. "Injured? Did they ask you? Did you reply?"

"No, no. We didn't say anything. We don't know anything." The old woman replied in panic.

Although she was married to the man in front of her, they were not the first wife and they only had one daughter. There is no one in her natal family, her husband does not care about her, and her stepson ignores her even more. She lives cautiously with her daughter on weekdays.

"It's better if you don't. Don't talk nonsense." The old man thought for a moment and gave up asking further questions. He didn't ask what kind of injuries the mother and daughter had suffered. He just continued to lie on his back, not knowing what to think.

The two mothers and daughters did not dare to disturb them and sat down in the corner leaning against each other.

"Three of you inside, it's time to eat." The jailer brought the meals.

I don't know if it was to make him live longer, but today's meal was actually good. However, the old man seemed to be too seriously injured. He couldn't hold it steady and actually dropped the porcelain bowl.

There was a clang, and the broken porcelain fell to the ground. The old man reached out to pick it up, but his hands seemed to be out of control, and he couldn't pick them all up for a long time.

"Don't eat it!"

The mother and daughter were so frightened that they trembled. The old woman hurriedly handed over her food while trembling, "Master, you can eat mine."

The old man glanced at her, took the food, and started eating.

The two mother and daughter breathed a sigh of relief and silently huddled in the corner and squatted down.

"Mom, you can eat mine, half for each of you."

"you eat."

"Mom, I'm not hungry. Let's take half for each person."

The two mother and daughter quietly finished a bowl of rice aside.

Half an hour later, the jailer came to collect the bowls. He might have other matters. If he broke a bowl, he just cursed and there was no other punishment.

As the night progressed, the dark cell became more and more frightening, with only the faint light of candles burning in the distance. The jailer was so sleepy that he fell asleep and snored.

In the darkness, the old man lying on the straw quietly opened his eyes and remained motionless. After a while, his eyes adapted to the darkness, and he slowly got out of bed, and silently came to the corner step by step. The two mother and daughter Beside him, he suddenly raised his hand and stabbed it hard.

There was a faint flash of light in the darkness, the glimmer of light reflected from the broken porcelain pieces.

"Ah!" the old woman screamed in panic, stretching out her hands to block it.

She didn't know why, maybe the medicine she drank was too good. She was obviously very tired, but she couldn't fall asleep. Just because of fear, I never dared to make a sound and just lay quietly.

In the end, it was this one who lay quietly and saved her own life.

"Bitch, you're pretending to be asleep." Seeing the woman wake up and struggle, the old man's expression became even more ferocious, and he continued to thrust down hard.

"Don't kill me, don't kill me." At the critical moment of life and death, the old woman actually burst out with more strength than usual and pushed the old man back.

The daughter who was sleeping next to her was awakened and hurriedly helped to stop the old man, "Dad, dad, what are you doing?!"

The three of them rolled into a ball. At this moment, Zhang Fu, who was hidden behind the stone wall in the darkness, finally said, "That's enough."

Old Uncle Zhong quickly led his men to stop the old man, and the two mother and daughter, who were still in shock, were brought to Zhang Fu.

The bright torches and blazing fire illuminated this dark room extremely brightly, making the two mother and daughter who had just escaped feel a little more at ease.

It's just that the firelight shines, reflecting the noble man sitting above, making him appear higher, unattainable, cold and unpredictable.

"Unexpectedly, you have just confirmed that your husband and father want your lives."

"I'm going to give you a chance to understand. Your husband and father assassinated a very important person with poison. He was half successful. We need to find an antidote now, so we put your family to death." Caught him. He was afraid that you would reveal his secret, so he decided to eradicate it."

"Your Excellency, we don't know anything. We really don't know anything!" The two mothers and daughters knelt down and kowtowed hard, pleading with tears streaming down their faces.

However, Zhang Fu above him was unmoved at all, like a cold stone statue, "You have been his pillow for more than ten years, so you should know something unusual."

"Say it! As long as I find the antidote, I will let you and your daughter go."

The seductive words echoed gently in this quiet dark room, like the whispers of ghosts and gods, making people unable to help but believe.

"It's not easy to survive. The most chaotic period has been over. It will only get better and better in the future. How can you die here, right?"

"He wants to kill you, so why bother keeping his secret anymore."

The two mother and daughter opened their eyes slightly and lost their minds for a moment.

Yes, he wants to kill you, so why bother?

The old woman opened her mouth slightly, her voice hoarse, as if she was lost in memories, "Our head is a beekeeper and candle maker. We usually live in the Imperial Manor, keep bees and make candles, except for the steward who comes every month. We deliver clothes, food, and candles, and almost no outsiders are seen. The head of the family keeps a lot of bees, but he also secretly keeps a kind of bee. This kind of bee is very strange. The hive is far away and hung in a stone cave. It looks like a big gourd. .This kind of bee even eats raw meat. I have seen our boss feeding them bees, as well as freshly killed animals. I dare not go up and take a closer look for fear of being discovered. But I think this kind of bee should It's poisonous."

"Is this kind of bee particularly big and has a golden ring on its body?" Dr. Zhang, who was listening in, frowned and asked.

"It's much bigger than ordinary bees. It does look a little golden from a distance, but I don't know if it's a golden ring." The old woman said uncertainly, fearing that Zhang Fu and others would be angry and panic to explain, "Our boss, It has always been said that beekeeping and candle making is a craft passed down from generation to generation, and only men can learn it. Women are not allowed to get close. I have seen some secretly, but my daughter has no idea about it. "

Doctor Zhang frowned and thought, and said slowly: "It sounds like a golden-ringed wasp. This kind of bee is extremely venomous. If it is not rescued in time, it can easily kill people. I just don't know how this old man can get the bee venom from the bee sting." It has been extracted from it, has it been reprocessed?"

"Is there any way?" Zhang Fu asked.

"There is no ready-made detoxification method, but you can try it on an experimental animal." Dr. Zhang said. Speaking of the experimental animal trick, it was Li Xiaohan who told him.

"Sure, let's give it a try as soon as possible." Zhang Fu made a decision immediately, then turned to the old woman and said, "Very good, that's it. Think again and see if there is anything unusual."

"No...no more." The old woman was frightened.

Zhang Fu didn't speak, his dark eyes seemed to be weighing the truth and falsehood.

The old woman became even more frightened and kowtowed, "Noble... Noble, I really can't believe that there is no more."

Zhang Fu frowned and moved his eyes to the young woman aside.

The young woman trembled crazily and shook her head. She only felt that this aloof and noble young master was even more frightened by those who had previously imprisoned them.

After a while, Xu Shi looked at the two mother and daughter and was so frightened that they couldn't think of anything anymore. Zhang Fu's face calmed down and said, "In that case, let you continue to think about it. When you think of it, tell us immediately. Wait for your honor. Once the poison is cured, I will naturally let you go."

"Come here, take them down and put them in the cell next door. Give them prepared beds and food."

The jailer who had brought the two mothers and daughters came forward to take them down. He murmured in his heart: He was locked in the cell next to the old man, but he was given a good bed and food. That good man would hate to die. These two mothers and daughters, two Mother and daughter are naturally more estranged and won't hide it.

The old man was tortured every day, and the mother and daughter looked very timid. They killed chickens to show respect to monkeys, and the second son killed monkeys to scare chickens.

The two mothers and daughters were taken away, but Zhang Fu did not leave immediately. He just continued to sit motionless. No one knew what he was thinking.

After a while, Fang stood up and said, "Let's go."

After leaving the cell, there was silence at night. There were no stars or moon in the sky, and it was pitch black, which made people despair.

Return to the hospital.

"Doctor Zhang, do you have to find Jinhuan Hu Feng to test the poison? Can't you continue testing with the assassin's knife?" Qingsong asked.

"We have already tried the poison on the knife once, but the existing antidote cannot solve it. The poison is not infinite, and the poison on the knife is limited. If there are too many tests, put the knife on it. The poison was exhausted, but when I finally tried it, it was no longer poisonous."

"Doctor Zhang, Jinhuan Hu Feng has been captured." Another person came to report.

"how many?"

"According to what you said, the more the better. Use the finest fishing net to net a nest. Gather all the weeds, trees and mud around the hive."

"Yes, yes, yes, that's right. Heaven never stops life, and all things interact with each other. Hurry up and catch my little white rabbit for testing, and I'll give it a try."

"How is Dr. Zhang?"

There was a long silence, and no one answered. They just looked at the little white rabbits that fell to the ground one by one. Everyone understood that the result was needless to say.

"okay!"

Everyone looked at the only remaining little white rabbit and said happily.

"No, let's try it with someone."

"who?"

"Young master has ordered someone to prepare a death row prisoner."

"The poison of Jinhuan Hu Feng has been cured, and he is about to wake up. No, no, no, no cure, no cure. There is more than one kind of poison, what else is there, what else is mixed with it?"

Doctor Zhang murmured to himself, "What else? What else?"

From the sun shining high in the sky until the sun sets in the west, and then the moon shining on the tall buildings, from joy to loss to rekindled hope to despair.

"Second Young Master, please go back first. Let Doctor Zhang and the others think about it again."

Zhang Fu remained silent and finally turned around and left. There was nothing they could do here.

Several people mounted their horses and returned home. Halfway through, Zhang Fu suddenly stopped and said, "I remember that there was a very famous temple along this road."

Qingsong and others who followed were stunned for a moment. The second young master never believed in gods and Buddhas.

It was better for Qingzhu to react faster, "Go back to Second Young Master, go straight to Changshou Street and turn right. It's Dafa Temple."

After a pause, Qingzhu added, "According to the folk, it is extremely effective."

"Let's go to Dafa Temple."

So, a group of people broke open the door of the temple in the middle of the night. Shatuo, who came to open the door, had bloodshot eyes, but when he saw Zhang Fu and his group, he was overwhelmed by his momentum. After all, he didn't say anything and just greeted the people. Go in.

The golden body of the Buddha statue in the main hall reflected the firelight, and the solemn face of the Buddha was lowered, seeming to be pitiful and ruthless.

There are two rows of lamps next to them. At a glance, countless lamps are flashing with light, and it feels inexplicably like they are telling something.

"This benefactor, what do you ask for?" The presiding abbot was woken up in the middle of the night. He was not angry, but still asked very calmly.

Zhang Fu paused for a moment, but did not answer directly. Instead, he asked, "Abbott, what are these oil lamps for?"

"These are the ever-lasting lanterns that the people in the city lit for Miss Li. Because there were too many people lighting lanterns, the lantern room couldn't hold them for a while, so they put them in front of the Buddha for the time being."

After listening to the abbot's explanation, Zhang Fu walked over and took a closer look at the rows of ever-burning lanterns.

The brown lamp is half full of lamp oil, and a wick is burning quietly in it. The flame is not very bright, but it has never been weak.

Zhang Fu looked at it for a while and then said, "Abbott, guardrails should be made to isolate these ever-bright lamps to prevent others from accidentally touching them."

"Donors, don't worry, we will have dedicated monks here to take care of them during the day. Tomorrow our new lamp room will be sorted out and these ever-burning lanterns will be moved inside for special care."

After listening to the abbot's explanation, Zhang Fufang did not continue to speak, but walked around step by step, as if checking each oil lamp.

Finally, Zhang Fu turned around and knelt down on the long futon.

"Second Young Master." Qingzhu exclaimed in a low voice.

There are no words to describe the horror that Qingzhu felt when he saw his second young master kneeling down. They followed the second young master all the way, knowing full well that the second young master never believed in ghosts and gods, only believed in himself.

However, at this moment, the second young master was praying to the gods.

"Abbott, I pray for someone's safety."

"I am the Buddha with mercy."

=== Chapter === 207

Qingzhu has always considered himself loyal. Even if the second young master transferred him back from Miss Li, Qingzhu only felt that he could only say sorry for Miss Li for the sake of the second master.

But at this moment, he finally and completely understood why he had been punished for so long because of what he said.

In the Second Young Master's case, Miss Li is even above himself.

Seeing the young master kneeling on the futon for a long time, Qingzhu did not dare to say anything.

I don't know how long it took, but the sound of the watchman banging bang bang came from a distance, and everyone was awakened.

Zhang Fu stood up, stood facing the Buddha statue for a moment, and then said, "Let's go."

The abbot, who had been silent on the side, suddenly spoke to persuade, "Your Majesty is about to move the capital back to the city. Recently, the curfew drums have been sounded, and martial law has been enforced everywhere. The deeper the night, the closer you are to the palace, the more severe the martial law is. I see the donor. If you sincerely recite the Buddha's name, if you have no urgent need to leave, it is better to stay overnight in this temple. The first stick of incense in this temple every morning is not famous. The donor has something to ask for, so you might as well give it a try."

"That's troublesome, Abbot." After hesitating for a while, Zhang Fu responded.

So, Qingzhu saw that his second son changed his mind easily, but thinking about it, he was not surprised now.

The burning room of Dafa Temple is simple and clean. After a night's rest, they will wake up at five o'clock in the morning. They will burn a stick of incense early and add money for sesame oil. After that, the group will walk back to Zhang Mansion through the morning dew.

Back at the gate of Zhang's Mansion, there was a woman talking to the concierge at this moment. The two of them kept pushing a basket covered with linen in their hands, as if they were arguing about something.

Seeing Zhang Fu and others approaching, the two people stopped quickly.

The concierge was a little frightened. The owner saw him like this. He was obviously derelict in his duty, so he made up his mind and said seriously to the woman, "Please leave quickly, we won't accept this."

Qingzhu frowned slightly, thinking that the woman wanted to give a gift, so he quickly stepped forward and asked, "What's going on?"

Unexpectedly, when the woman saw Zhang Fu and others, her eyes lit up. She walked up to Zhang Fu in three steps and said loudly, "Sir, you are from the general's mansion." No? I'm not a bad person. I live in No. 1006, Qingque Alley. My maiden name is Ma and my husband's surname is Chen. Everyone calls me Aunt Ma. Miss Li was very kind to my family. We relied on Tiger Balm to save our lives. He lives and relies on white wax to support his family. I heard that Miss Li was poisoned and fell into a coma. She is recuperating in the general's mansion. How is she now? Is she awake? Do you know? Can you tell us? "

No one could have imagined that this woman had this intention, and for a moment, they didn't know how to respond.

Zhang Fu frowned slightly. Seeing this, Aunt Ma felt that it was not convenient to talk about the difficulty. She became sad and depressed visibly, "Can't you talk about it? You big family just has a lot of rules, so forget it."

After saying that, he seemed to have given up, but also seemed unwilling to give up. He turned around and said with resentment, "Are there some bad guys that haven't been caught yet, so we can't talk about it? That must be the case. I don't want any of these black-hearted people." Let them go, Ms. Li, a good person, can do harm to people, and they will all go to the eighteenth level of hell after death."

After that, without waiting for anyone to react, he rushed forward, trying to push the basket in his hand into Zhang Fu's hand, "This is the newly harvested rice from my family. The old man said that the new rice is the best when boiled with rice oil. It's a little bit of our kindness to support people. It's not worth much. Please pass it on to Miss Li."

This unexpected action shocked everyone, especially the one who pretended to be a wax farmer to assassinate Li Xiaohan. The Qingzhu at the front made a 'snap' sound, and his sword was unsheathed. Refers to Madam Ma.

Aunt Ma was so frightened that she took two steps back. She was so accustomed to the village's behavior that she almost forgot that this was the noble young master and not the concierge just now.

But even so, Aunt Ma hugged the bamboo basket tightly and never let go.

"No... can't it? It's really just white rice and a little brown sugar." Aunt Ma opened the linen cloth, and inside was a small bag of rice and a bag of brown sugar, which were very common gifts from farmers.

They are ordinary people who don't have any good things, but she always tries her best.

"It's okay, give it to me." Zhang Fu slowly stretched out his hand, waved away Qingzhu who wanted to do it for him, and said.

"Second Young Master!" Qingzhu said anxiously.

"It's okay, give it to me." Zhang Fu was oblivious to Qingzhu's anxious stoppage, and stretched out his hand, as if it was normal, but also with endless secret expectations.

"Then...thank you, sir." Aunt Ma was obviously in shock, and she moved the basket forward. Seeing that Zhang Fu really took it, she breathed a sigh of relief, "Thank you, sir, I'll leave first."

This feels a bit scary, so let's leave quickly.

Only Zhang Fu was left, carrying a bamboo basket with no follow-up, and seemed to have lost something - no assassination, no poisoning, nothing.

After taking two steps, Aunt Ma looked back and looked at Zhang Fu who seemed to be a little lost. She was puzzled for a moment, and then asked loudly and hopefully, "Second Young Master, Miss Li will definitely be fine, right?!"

I don't know whether to ask Zhang Fu or convince myself.

Zhang Fu was awakened, paused, and said calmly but firmly: "Yes, I will definitely do it."

"That's good, that's good." Now Aunt Ma was relieved, with a smile on her face, and her footsteps were two points lighter when she left.

Qingzhu sheathed her sword, looked at her young master carrying a bamboo basket, hesitated for a moment, stretched out his hand and said, "Sir, let me take it."

Zhang Fu then handed it to Qingzhu and ordered as he walked, "You lead people to find out about this Aunt Ma."

Find out whether it is a trick with ulterior motives, or whether it is really just sincere gratitude and condolences.

If it is a trick, pretending to be the most ordinary farmer and woman, first lowering people's vigilance, and then poisoning and assassinating people. Such similar methods may not come from the same organization, and they can just follow the example. Find out. Even if he didn't take action in the end, it might just be the wrong timing.

If I sincerely thank you...

You see, there are so many people in this world who want you to wake up, and I will definitely find a way.

Qingzhu looked straight and responded, "Yes, Second Young Master."

"After checking the basket, bring it back to me."

Qingzhu paused for a moment, a little unexpected, but he immediately reacted, "Yes, Second Young Master."

So, the Qingzhu guards took people out to follow Aunt Ma. They watched Aunt Ma go home to cook and take care of her children, and they also followed a large group of women to the Dafa Temple to burn incense. It was an extremely busy but normal day.

A thorough investigation of the three generations of Aunt Ma's ancestors, her husband's family, neighbors, relatives, and enemies showed that she was born and raised in Dingcheng, and there was no problem.

"Second Young Master, I checked, and there is nothing wrong with Mrs. Ma. They also made an appointment to go to Dafa Temple to light the everlasting lamp for Miss Li. Unfortunately, the lamp room of Dafa Temple was full, so they refused and asked them to go home and burn incense. But. Madam Ma and the others also asked Dafa Temple if it would be okay to light lamps at home, but the abbot said that sincerity will lead to spiritual success, and they have already lit candles at home instead of everlasting lamps."

Zhang Fu looked at the vegetable basket that was put back in the study. The items in it had been tested and were not poisonous.

I don't know what he thought of, but he finally lightened his brows and replied, "Send someone to continue following. Get down."

"Yes, Second Young Master."

"Everyone else, please go out. Old Uncle Zhong stays."

After Qingzhu and others went out, Zhang Fufang asked, "How is it in the cell?"

Old Uncle Zhong also had a sad face, "The old man and the mother and daughter have turned against each other. The old man really wants the mother and daughter to die, but the mother and daughter can't say anything. The old man's Children and grandchildren are currently undetectable, and our people have stepped up to continue screening."

"It's too slow, we don't have enough manpower." Zhang Fu said slowly while sitting with his waist straighter and his hands still, his whole figure like a taut line.

"Second Young Master, what do you need me to do?" Old Uncle Zhong bowed slightly and said respectfully.

"You find a death row inmate who is similar to the prisoner and quietly replace the prisoner. Place the prisoner in a secret place. As long as the poison is not cured, you will have to protect him. Life."

"Yes, Second Young Master."

"Then, you go and torture the 'prisoner' yourself, use severe punishment. According to the information confided by the 'prisoner' before his death, they are probably related to the remaining party and are trying to assassinate His Majesty before he moves the capital. The imperial court ordered officials to show resistance to His Majesty."

"Second Young Master..." This is the crime of deceiving the emperor.

"Why, can't you do it?" Zhang Fu looked over flatly, his eyes calm and unruffled, as if he had just ordered a very ordinary trivial matter. If he looked more closely, it seemed that there was an infinite secret hidden in the depths. Undercurrent.

"After all, this is the crime of deceiving the emperor. If you are not careful, things can easily get out of control. Miss Li is an extremely stable person. If she knew about it, she would not approve of you taking such easy risks." Old Uncle Zhong persuaded with difficulty. road.

Perhaps it was the last words that touched Zhang Fu. The calmness in Zhang Fu's eyes was finally torn for a moment, but he returned firmly after a moment, "Do you think that if there is no one else behind him, he is just an ordinary person?" Can the wax farmer mix up this kind of poison that is colorless and odorless but quickly poisonous and even the imperial doctor cannot detoxify it? Can he walk here from the old capital by such a coincidence and accurately assassinate the person he wants to assassinate? Can he kill the person he wants to assassinate? The descendants who really want to hide it can't be found even now?"

"Those who can do this, now only have the little strength left by the surviving party. The less we can find our people, the more it proves this point. I am just doing this to push me faster. It's just solved."

"Yes, I obey." Old Uncle Zhong understood that it was useless to persuade him.

"Go down. Mobilize the secret guards and do a good job."

"yes."

Old Uncle Zhong retreated gently, but Zhang Fu stood in front of the desk for a long time, not knowing what to think, very absorbed.

After a cup of tea, Zhang Fu said softly, "Can't you find the antidote? Then let more people find it."

Without anyone else answering, Zhang Fu took out the rice paper, picked up the ink stick, grinded the ink, weighted the paper, wrote, and started writing.

This letter was written very slowly, with pauses in the middle, and at one point I stopped to think about the wording. Obviously, the person receiving the letter is someone Zhang Fu attaches great importance to, and what is written in the letter is extremely important. things.

Less than half an hour later, Zhang Fu finally finished writing, folded the letter and stuffed it into the envelope, sealed it with lacquer, opened the door and told Qingsong, "Urgent, send it to His Majesty."

"Yes." Qingsong responded seriously and immediately went to execute it.

Zhang Fufang returned to the study, slowly washed the ink stains in his hands, then picked up the bamboo basket and walked to Songxi Courtyard, where Li Xiaohan's family now lives.

Seeing Zhang Fu coming over, Li Xiandong and Wang, who were talking around the sleeping Li Xiaohan, stood up, returned the salute to Zhang Fu who bowed slightly and saluted, and then left silently.

During this process, neither party said anything. It was not to blame, but here, no one wanted to pretend to be polite and strong. And the truth gets sadder the more I tell it.

In such a large room, only Li Xiaohan, who was lying quietly on the bed, and Zhang Fu, who was standing quietly by the bed, were left. After a while, Zhang Fu put the basket in his hand on the bedside. He came down, stretched out his hand and gently held Li Xiaohan's left hand.

"Xiaohan."

The hand being held moved slightly. Zhang Fu felt the slight movement in his hand and stared at Li Xiaohan's face, for fear of missing any movement.

Unfortunately, the results are always disappointing.

After a while, Zhang Fu continued to speak and said softly, "If you move, I will assume that you can hear it."

"Today, I went to Dafa Temple. The host, Master Wuhan, said that many people have lit everlasting lanterns for you, and there is not even enough room for the lanterns. They have to be moved to a new lantern room."

"I light a stick of incense for you today. If the Buddha really appears, then I hope you can wake up safely."

"I didn't light a lamp for you, will you blame me? It's said that incense can help the gods. I told the Buddha so many times that the ever-burning lamp can't wake you up, which means that the gods and Buddhas don't believe in it. Maybe the Buddha will notice me? I Such a person is so stingy that he only lights a stick of incense and doesn't even light an ever-burning lamp. He doesn't believe in Buddhism but still dares to expect the Buddha to bless him. Maybe when the Buddha is angry, he will give me, a false believer, A little color will help you wake up."

"Is it possible to say that there are gods and Buddhas who are so stingy, childish and carefree?"

With a slight sigh, Zhang Fu paused and continued, "When I returned to the mansion, I met an aunt at the gate of the mansion. She said that she was very grateful to you for saving them with your tiger balm and white wax. She saved her life and supported her family. Their family has newly harvested rice and brought a bag for you to try. It is said that the rice oil of the new rice is very nourishing. I asked the old servant , that's true. There's also a pack of brown sugar. I collected it for you and brought it over to you."

"I think if it were you, you would accept it."

"Everyone misses you so much and hopes you get better."

=== Chapter === 208

There was a poet in the previous dynasty who wrote, "The days are like years, the wind and frost are gradually changing", which is quite suitable for today's scene.

It was just ten days later, when a cold wind blew up, and from the warm and bright late summer, I smelled the cold wind and cold rain of the early autumn.

Just like human mood.

The 'prisoners' in the cell could not bear the torture and did not vomit out the news of the antidote before they died. This most important clue was broken.

The frightened mother and daughter could no longer think of anything else, or the information given was too messy and worthless and even affected their correct judgment.

After Doctor Zhang's antidote removed a layer of poison from Jinhuan Hu Feng, he fell into trouble again.

Aunt Ma, whom Qingzhu sent people to monitor, was rejected by the abbot of Dafa Temple. She imitated the ever-lasting lanterns and lit up white wax in her home. She said that sincerity brings spiritual power, and the white wax suits the occasion, and the gods will definitely bless Miss Li. Moreover, Aunt Ma took the initiative to talk about it to people around her, and many women followed her example.

At present, it seems that Aunt Ma is not a comrade, but an ordinary woman. This suspected clue has been broken again.

Thousands of threads, no way to start.

Wang and Li Xiandong could no longer hide their sadness. They often cried at each other, but they had to be strong.

Zhang Fu no longer dared to look directly at the faces of this couple. He went to visit Li Xiaohan every day and saw them. He had nothing to say but sit quietly.

Only when leaving, faced with the hesitant gazes of these two people, Zhang Fu even ran away in panic.

"Second Young Master, we have a visitor." That day, as soon as they left Songxi Courtyard, Qingzhu came up to him anxiously, lowered his head and whispered, "This is Mr. Qi from the palace."

Zhang Fu's eyes narrowed slightly, and then he showed a hint of contemplation. Without stopping, he quickly arrived at the guest courtyard, only to see that Qi Gong was wearing casual clothes, not palace clothes.

Zhang Fu clasped his fists, but did not reveal the identity of Duke Qi, "I didn't know that there was a distinguished guest coming. I really feel that I have been waiting for you for a long time."

Duke Qi put down the tea cup and smiled very approachably, "Second Young Master, you're welcome, I haven't drank this cup of hot tea yet. However, the master has given orders and I really can't delay. Could you please Second Young Master follow me?" Let's take a walk."

The only one who can make Duke Qi in the palace call him master is Your Majesty. But isn't His Majesty still on the road to moving the capital?

Zhang Fu thought about it, thought of some possibilities, and said with a smile, "That would be a great joy. Then I would have to trouble the distinguished guest to come with him again."

"This is what should be done. Why bother? Second Young Master, please."

The two of them walked out of the guest house one after another. Qingzhu saw the opportunity and quietly stuffed the bag containing the banknotes. Qi Gonggong's smile became more sincere.

The carriage came out from Zhang's Mansion and went straight. The sky was getting dark. Occasionally there were a few hurried passers-by on the street rushing home. No one noticed that the carriage came quietly to the back door of the Prince's Mansion, and then the two got out of the car and walked quietly. Entered through the small door.

After His Majesty decided to move the capital, the regulations of Dingcheng Palace were not suitable. However, His Majesty ordered that everything should be simplified for the time being, and other buildings would be built after the emperor returns. Being so anxious shows that His Majesty does not want to stay in the old capital for a moment.

Although His Majesty said that everything should be simplified, the officials who stayed behind did not dare to really simplify things. In order to move the capital, all the ministries have been so busy in the past six months that their feet are hitting the back of their heads, and their walking is much faster than before.

Fortunately, everyone's busy work has paid off. Wanhe Palace is the main palace designated by His Majesty after he decided to move the capital. It took half a year to repair and was just completed. Now it is the tallest and most luxurious palace in the city.

Of course, although this Wanhe Palace has been used to control the city for nearly half a year, it is still not as luxurious as many palaces in the old Beijing Palace. However, His Majesty will definitely be more comfortable living here than living in Kyoto.

In the newly built Wanhe Palace, Zhang Fu saw His Majesty who was supposed to be on the way to move the capital, and his own father who was standing by.

It's unexpected, but also expected if you think about it carefully.

"I see you, Your Majesty."

"Get up, there's no need to be polite. I came back secretly without telling the ministers. Cheng'an, you can't expose me because of this."

Xu had won the final victory and left the unpleasant old capital and returned to his old territory. The emperor was in a happy mood beyond words.

Of course, as for what the emperor said about hiding it from the ministers, it is estimated that several ministers in the cabinet must know it. The chief officials of the six ministries, at least the Ministry of War and the Ministry of Personnel, know about it, and they are just pretending not to know.

His Majesty had recently dethroned his nephew from the throne and sat on that chair himself, at a time when his prestige was at its highest. The ministers who can guess the emperor's whereabouts are his confidants. With the emperor's force value so high, there is basically no need to worry about his safety. He can just turn a blind eye, so why bother to disappoint him.

"It's still comfortable to be back in Dingcheng. Even the wind and rain are strong and powerful. The temperature has dropped all of a sudden. Although it is a bit cold, it makes people feel happy. It is not like other places where it is cloudy and humid. , making people uncomfortable."

His Majesty the Emperor said a few words about the weather casually, "Cheng'an, please hurry up and send me a secret message to tell me that there are assassins in Dingcheng who assassinated court officials. They used a colorless, odorless but very fast poison. The antidote has not yet been found. I doubt it." Is it related to the surviving party? It is very possible that he wants to sabotage the capital move?"

"Reporting to Your Majesty, yes. The assassin is an old servant of Emperor Shang's Imperial Mansion. After escaping from the old capital, he went straight to Dingcheng. The antidote for the poison that killed Mr. Li has not yet been found. Minister's power Shan was weak. Although the prisoner confided some information during the execution, he committed suicide afterwards, which made it impossible for me to find other surviving party members. The matter is so important that although I have no more evidence for the time being, I dare not go any further. Because of the delay, I have to go ahead and report it to Your Majesty, hoping that Your Majesty will make a decision."

Sure enough, the emperor's face became unhappy. Zhang Fu didn't know, but the emperor knew that Emperor Shang's remaining party had never given up. His father still had some power that he gave to his grandson, but he couldn't find it yet. He probably planned to use it at this time.

"No doubt, this is their way of doing things. They can't do it with real swords and guns. They like to do things secretly. Cheng'an, you are not specialized in this. You pass on my secret order and investigate this matter with the Ministry of Punishment. , I don't believe it can't be dug out."

After a pause, the emperor said again, "You said Li Xiaohan is still unconscious? The imperial doctor can't find the cause and can't prepare an antidote."

You should know that Zhang Fu had already sent an urgent letter to the imperial physician on the day he came back. At that time, the emperor thought that Zhang Fu was young and impatient, but he liked Zhang Fu and had a good impression of Li Xiaohan, so he quickly agreed to send the imperial physician to Kuai Ma. Rush back.

Now there is no antidote.

"Yes, Imperial Physician Ning, Imperial Physician Jie and Doctor Zhang have all seen it. They can only maintain it but cannot detoxify it."

Imperial Physician Ning was the original Imperial Physician of Prince Ding, Imperial Physician Xie was the Imperial Physician who was best at poisoning in the Imperial Palace after the emperor ascended the throne, and Doctor Zhang was the figure who asked Prince Ding to pretend to be sick to hide it from the Imperial Physician during the period of Prince Ding.

These three people joined forces, but they were still unable to detoxify.

The emperor began to pay attention to this matter. After all, everyone has only one life, and now it happens to be used on Li Xiaohan. If it is used on other people...

It can be seen from this that this assassin must be an old party member of Emperor Shang, otherwise how could an ordinary Huangzhuang craftsman prepare such a strange poison.

Who does the Shang Emperor's old party hate the most? Needless to say, the current emperor himself.

"You pass on my secret order and cooperate with the Taiyuan Hospital's order to test it on death row prisoners. We must get a result."

When it comes to testing medicine, naturally it is most accurate for people to test it.

However, even if it is a death row prisoner, he is not beheaded as usual, but is used to test poison. This is really detrimental to the majesty of the court.

Therefore, everyone now understood that once this secret order was spread, someone would definitely take the blame for the emperor. The first person to bear the brunt was naturally Zhang Fu, the instigator.

"I obey the decree." Zhang Fu knelt down and responded.

The emperor looked at Zhang Fu who was kneeling on the ground again. Although the news that Zhang Fu brought this time made him not so happy, but after only a few days apart, Zhang Fu's eyes were red and his eyes were black. The chin has become thinner, which shows that Cha is doing his best to light the lamp and boil the oil.

He is a young minister who does practical things. The emperor made a decision in his mind.

Zhang Fu's father still sacrificed his life to save him. He almost went to meet the confidants of the King of Hell. The emperor became more tolerant and even had a little more pity for his descendants.

"Cheng'an, it's not your fault that you are still young. Your talents lie elsewhere. Don't not cherish yourself just because you are young. I will still use yours in the future."

"I thank Your Majesty for your concern, but I am afraid of betraying His Majesty's great trust. I will do my best to serve Your Majesty from now on."

"Okay, you are always good, go down."

Zhang Fu then quickly retreated in a soft voice.

Naturally, the emperor would not come back secretly just for things like Zhang Fu. Being able to take the time to meet Zhang Fu was already a rare and important thing.

Now the emperor's most important thing is whether the capital can be moved smoothly, so the place for this meeting is Wanhe Hall. Even the emperor couldn't rest assured, he secretly came up and stepped on it first.

Fortunately, the result is good. At this moment, when you climb up and look far away, you can see the entire Dingcheng city at a glance, and the candlelight is shining, which makes people feel proud, and the mood affected by those flies and dogs also gets better.

The emperor was even in the mood to joke, "Zhang Aiqing, Cheng'an seems to have a deep affection for Miss Li. I guess your family will be able to hold a happy event in the near future."

With the country in hand, there is nothing in the world that can stop His Majesty the Emperor. There is no need to worry about finding an antidote to a small poison.

Zhang Fu is the Minister of Household Affairs. According to his function, this matter is not his turn. However, he took the initiative to ask for help. Zhang Fu was familiar with all matters surrounding the city, and the emperor was relieved, so he asked him to come back first to deal with it.

However, whether there was any personal influence, Zhang Fu never concealed it - in front of the emperor, sometimes it is better to not hide it than to hide it.

Of course, if you want to hide something, you should hide it to the end.

"Hey, I don't care about their young people's affairs. Besides, Miss Li's Panax notoginseng styptic powder and allicin are useless. If he can marry her, my family will make a lot of money."

"Haha, you old boy is quite good at calculations."

Qi Gong saw that the atmosphere between the two was very good. He was an old man serving the emperor, so he could echo a few words, "Miss Li's white wax is very useful. The old slave heard that Miss Li was injured. Afterwards, many civilians, out of gratitude for Miss Li's gift of teaching wax making, took the initiative to go to Dafa Temple to light everlasting lanterns for Miss Li. As a result, the lamp room in Dafa Temple was full. People who couldn't light the lamps simply lit white wax at home to make chandeliers. Use the light to pray for Miss Li's safety."

Mr. Qi was very satisfied with Zhang's red envelope. General Zhang and his son were the emperor's confidants, so they might as well make good friends.

"Oh, there are such things." The emperor said curiously.

"Yes, in our area now, white wax is an important source of income for many families, and many businessmen from other places travel thousands of miles to purchase it. So when they heard that Miss Li was injured and unconscious, the people were anxious!"

Emperor Bai Wa naturally knew that a lot of silver in his bank was obtained from Bai Wa.

There are also Panax notoginseng styptic powder, allicin, alcohol, etc. Since having Miss Li, the emperor felt that his luck in war had become much smoother.

Many things from the past came to mind again. Speaking of which, Li Xiaohan was really smart, generous in his actions, and had a rare pattern.

More importantly, Li Xiaohan was not taught. Her family was poor and her parents were mediocre, so she was born like this.

Born with intelligence and a natural pattern, this is God's beloved character.

Especially when I look down at this moment, with Wanhe Palace as the center, there are candlelights under the stretching eaves.

Although this light is extremely small and weak, it is so numerous that it stretches out and is difficult to ignore.

It was particularly eye-catching in the darkness, and His Majesty the Emperor narrowed his eyes slightly.

After getting the throne, the issue of inheritance in the world was considered. Several of his princes now look at the right age.

The emperor knew very well about marrying a virtuous wife. In the early years when he was in Qicheng, his princess helped him to guard the city.

I heard that the Li family drove away the imperial rebels several times at that time, and Li Xiaohan volunteered to be taken hostage, leaving clues behind and cleverly waiting for rescue.

From this point of view, Li Xiaohan is quite like his daughter-in-law.

The royal instinct to grab all the good things in the world for his own home is beginning to kick in.

Besides, after he moved the capital back to Beijing this time, one thing was urgent, and that was to reward the meritorious officials.

After all, the world has been conquered now, and the younger brothers who follow him should also be promoted to nobility.

His Majesty the Emperor has already made up his mind. If he likes, for example, his close and beloved generals, he will be given a special title. If he doesn't like, for example, those old ministers of the Shang Emperor who surrendered, he cannot completely ignore them, so he will give them a false name.

However, there are also some people who are in trouble, such as Li Xiaohan.

There is no doubt about Li Xiaohan's contribution. His Majesty the Emperor is a veteran of war. The loss of financial and human resources caused by war is like a bottomless pit. Fortunately, Li Xiaohan contributed several secret recipes. Pewter has made great contributions to the financial support of the rear. , Panax notoginseng styptic powder, allicin and Eucommia ulmoides armor reduced the soldier's casualty rate by nearly half, which can be called a miracle.

However, Li Xiaohan is not very nice, she is a woman.

In the previous special period, it was already a special matter to let her receive a sinecure. Now, if she wants to be promoted, without such a high sinecure, she must go to court. This dynasty has never had a woman go to court.

If you don't get promoted, then you can only be rewarded with land and titles.

His Majesty, the emperor of the fiefdom, doesn't think much about it. It's difficult to control the land that is divided. He himself was the one who brought the fiefdom back to the central government. Now he is trying to find a way to change the ancestral system. He doesn't want to seal a single cent of the land.

If it is just a reward without a title without a fiefdom or official position, then it is a toothless tiger with only a false name.

The emperor's conscience was a bit difficult. The most important thing was that Li Xiaohan seemed to be very popular among the people, and he didn't want to make his reputation bad.

After obtaining the throne, His Majesty the Emperor began to think about such illusory things as fame. He wanted to prove that it was correct and justifiable for him to win the throne, and that he was his father's best successor.

Therefore, heroes should not be treated poorly, but people's support is important.

If Li Xiaohan becomes the royal daughter-in-law, then all problems will be solved.

For a woman, there is no higher recognition and status than becoming a royal wife, and no title or reward can compare to becoming a royal.

That is, Zhang Aiqing's family...

Zhang Zhen stood aside, watching the emperor's expression change, with a look of awakening and excitement. He occasionally glanced at himself a few times, and felt unspeakable guilt several times.

"Ai Qing, has your family gone to the Li family?"

What does the emperor want to ask?

Or does he have something on his mind? Otherwise, why would he feel guilty? !

Zhang Zhen's mind was shocked. Although he was a military general, no military general survived purely by virtue of bravery. He had only a body of force and no brains, so he could only become Lu Xianfeng.

Zhang Zhen was shocked. His second son and daughter-in-law were in danger!

"Speaking of which, we haven't officially left the ceremony yet. It's not Chengan yet. They often say that the world is uncertain, so why should we focus on our family. So it has been postponed until now."

My son never got married because he wanted to help you conquer the world, making the eldest son a single man.

"However, although we didn't get married, our two families already had a tacit understanding and exchanged marriage tokens."

Now, immediately, ask your son to deliver something to the Li family, and then bring something back, saying that it was already decided before. Anyway, now the Li family lives in their own home, without anyone noticing, seamlessly.

"Fortunately, the world is finally at peace. My wife and I are discussing how to properly handle Cheng'an's marriage after His Majesty's move to the capital is completed. Alas, he has been frail since he was a child and has a sensitive mind. Your Majesty, you know , He didn't have a very good temper when he was a child. Fortunately, he met His Majesty and was taught by His Majesty, and now he is finally more stable. I hope he will serve Your Majesty well in the future, and I feel relieved. "

My son is young and promising, and he is loyal to you, and you are willing to let him go.

"That's right." Seeing Zhang Zhen's sincere and loyal look, the emperor suppressed the thought that had just arisen with a bit of reluctance, "Cheng'an is the one we watched growing up. Now that he has grown into such a talented person, you old boy are happy. !"

"No matter what happens, I will give it to Your Majesty. All the talents in the world will be in His Majesty's arms."

Slap the emperor on his ass, and it's easier to talk when you're happy.

"Haha, you are smart, don't worry, I will be of great use to Cheng'an in the future."

Forget it, poaching the minister's family is not very honorable after all. The world is so big and good women are everywhere, so why force it? It's not beautiful.

"Then I will thank Your Majesty in advance for Chengan." Zhang Zhen knelt down.

pass.

Er'er, your sweetheart is so good that I almost couldn't keep him. Fortunately, you have a good father. You have to be very grateful to your father and me.

Zhang Fu didn't know that there would be so many twists and turns after he left. With the emperor's permission, Zhang Fu became even more powerful in his actions without any hindrance.

The power of the emperor's action was naturally not comparable to that of the second son of the general's mansion, Zuo Shilang of Hubu. Dingcheng was sifted through again like a fine mesh, and sure enough, something was found, and a line was found from one point...

Li Xiaohan only felt groggy, not knowing whether he was dreaming or awake.

She didn't know how long it had been since the initial earthquake. She waited for a long time and finally heard the call for rescue. Unfortunately, what came first was not rescue, but aftershocks.

aftershock? !

Li Xiaohan was shocked, what happened to him now? do you died?

No, she still feels, she's still alive.

But now the situation seemed not good. She felt as if she was trapped to death, unable to move her whole body.

Could it be that she was trapped by fallen debris? Or was he so weak that he fell into a coma?

This is not good. It can't go on like this. She needs to wake up. How could she die so easily after working so hard to persevere?

She wants to live, she must live!

Li Xiaohan tried hard to cheer himself up and at least open his eyes to see what was going on.

No matter how hard I try, I can't feel any light in front of my eyes.

Maybe it just happened to be dark?

Li Xiaohan gave up looking at things first. Fortunately, the weight of the fog on his body was gradually dissipating, and his body's consciousness was slowly returning.

I should be lying down, but I don't feel much pain on my body. It's really strange, what is it that has been weighing me down and almost suffocating my breath just now?

Slowly, the feeling became clearer. Someone was holding his left hand with both hands, as if he was saying something. It sounded vague, but the voice was very familiar.

The feeling in my left hand became clearer and clearer. In addition to being held by someone, I also felt a hot flash.

The hand seemed to be touching someone's face, and the hot flash on the face seemed like a gentle breath.

A drop of water fell gently on the palm of my hand.

water!

Li Xiaohan used all his strength to gently move his left hand and groped forward.

Sure enough, there is water.

She gently wiped the water droplets away.

The person who was touched froze.

The past life and the present life, one soul and two lives, memories of the past come to mind one after another.

All the weight of the fog was suddenly dispelled, and Li Xiaohan struggled to open his eyes.

"Zhang Fu, Zhang Er."

=== Chapter === 209

Zhang Fu subconsciously held Li Xiaohan's hand tightly, frowned, and stared at Li Xiaohan, afraid that with a blink of an eye, everything in front of him would dissipate like a hallucination and dream.

Until Li Xiaohan frowned slightly because his left hand hurt from being held.

"Xiaohan?" The hand that was tightly clenched was instantly relaxed, and his words were filled with caution and disbelief.

"Yes." Li Xiaohan said in a low voice, showing a weak but happy smile, "I'm back."

No, everything is still there, it's not a fantasy.

Zhang Fu opened his pupils slightly, shocked, happy, overwhelmed... All kinds of thoughts flashed in his mind, and the whole figure seemed unable to react.

"Come here, come here, call the doctor."

In the end, everything turned into anxiety.

"Second Young Master, Doctor Zhang..." Qingsong pushed open the door and came in. When he saw Li Xiaohan waking up with his eyes open, he was stunned for a moment.

"Miss Li, are you awake?"

Zhang Fu was extremely unhappy and yelled, "Where is the doctor?"

"Come here, Miss Li is awake!" Qingsong turned around and shouted, "Call the doctor!"

Li Xiandong, Wang and others outside the hospital were stunned.

Did they hear it wrong just now? It seemed that Qingsong was shouting and Xiaohan woke up.

Without having time to think too much, the two of them rushed into the room, almost knocking Qing Song at the door. The two of them squeezed Zhang Fu away who was standing close to him.

"Xiaohan, Xiaohan, you're awake." Wang whispered in disbelief, reaching out to touch Li Xiaohan's face tremblingly, finally confirming that it was true, and her tears fell silently, with tears. He smiled and said, "Okay, okay, just wake up. Just wake up."

Standing on the other side, the corners of Li Xiandong's eyes were slightly red, and in the end he only looked at Li Xiaohan with a simple and honest smile.

Zhang Fu, who had been squeezed away, just reacted and stood back next to Li Xiaohan without making a sound.

Outside the door, Li Xiaoshuang, who had just been thrown away by Wang and Li Xiandong, rushed in with a pair of short legs like a small bomb, "Brother Zhang, give way. Sister, sister, you are awake. You are sick. I've been sleeping for a long time. I'm so worried about you and I miss you so much. Have you missed me? I've dreamed of you many times, many, many times. Have you dreamed of me? Have you missed me?..."

The clear and crisp children's voice, chirping and chirping, never stopped, instantly taking away the sense of presence of all the adults in the room.

Can Zhang Fu compete with a child? he can not. He could only silently be squeezed further away.

Li Xiaohan replied softly to Li Xiaoshuang, "Sister, I miss Xiaoshuang too. My sister dreamed of Xiaoshuang. In the dream, Xiaoshuang was always great..."

He quietly turned to look at Zhang Fu and smiled reassuringly.

Zhang Fu's whole body became softer involuntarily.

Fortunately, the doctor arrived and interrupted Li Xiaoshuang's continuous chatter, otherwise she seemed to be able to keep talking.

Doctor Zhang, Imperial Physician Ning and the government doctor came together. They felt the pulse one after another, and then they all said a lot of terms that Li Xiaohan didn't understand. Finally, Doctor Zhang announced with a smile, "The internal poison has been resolved, and there are still There is a little bit of residual poison. After cleaning it, you can nourish your body and it will be done."

The people surrounding them finally put down their worries and saw Dr. Zhang continue to say: "When it comes to health-preserving methods, Dr. Ning is the best at it, so please trouble Dr. Ning."

With such attention, Li Xiaohan immediately realized that her poison was unusual. She looked around. She was a little confused when she just woke up, but now she looked around and found that the people closest to her were extremely haggard.

"Mom, how many days have I been in a coma?"

"You've been sleeping for more than ten days." Mrs. Wang tucked Li Xiaohan into a blanket, her words filled with joy.

Li Xiaohan frowned slightly. She clearly remembered that she was trapped in the earthquake for three days, and then she lost consciousness when the aftershocks came... Could it be that the time was not equal?

However, even after carrying the memories for two lifetimes, there is no time left to wait for something that cannot be explained.

That is, everyone is worried after being in a coma for more than ten days. It must have been very difficult to snatch this life back from King Yama.

"So I slept for so long..." Suddenly, there were so many feelings that Li Xiaohan didn't know how to express them.

"Yes, it's not too late. You are lucky. You woke up before the date of His Majesty's capital relocation ceremony planned by the Qintian Supervisor, and you can participate in this rare event. Unfortunately, your body can only lie down. He is recuperating in bed and cannot go out or visit the palace to pay homage." Dr. Zhang joked.

They are used to seeing life and death, and it is easier for them to adjust their mentality. As long as they can wake up alive, the rest is not a big deal.

Especially when Li Xiaohan woke up, Dr. Zhang felt that his medical skills had made great progress. He was actually mixing poisons. A mature poison plus bee venom actually brought about such a wonderful reaction. It was really rare. one sight.

Thinking of this, Doctor Zhang suddenly had an inspiration. Speaking of which, if there are no major sequelae of being unconscious, and the dosage is controlled, it actually has other uses!

"Come on, Miss Li, let me ask you, did you feel pain when you were in a coma? Did you feel it? Do you remember what happened during the coma?"

As soon as these words came out, the others were fine, but Zhang Fu seemed a little uncomfortable and stood a little tighter.

He was one of the people Li Xiaohan paid attention to. At this moment, he immediately felt Zhang Fu's abnormality, and then thought of the vague words he heard when he was about to wake up, and the water droplets he felt.

So, it's not an illusion, it's reality.

Li Xiaohan twitched his fingertips imperceptibly.

"I don't remember. I just feel groggy, as if I didn't sleep well."

Zhang Fu breathed a sigh of relief, but seemed to feel a little lost.

"It's okay if you don't remember. It will happen now that you wake up." Wang said softly.

"This matter can be studied and studied. I will try it again, give it a try." Doctor Zhang's tone became excited.

Everyone is confused, what else does he want to try?

"Doctor Zhang, why don't you let Dr. Ning prescribe medicine for Miss Li first? There are other things you should pay attention to, such as how to eat and behave. Please tell your uncle and aunt." Zhang Fu interrupted the excited man who was eager to try. Doctor Zhang.

"Yes, let me take a look." The steady Doctor Ning stood up with a smile, took Li Xiaohan's pulse again very carefully and carefully, and then wrote a prescription, "I will write a prescription for you later, and the medicine will be Fry it and bring it over, three times a day. In terms of diet, rice porridge and water are still the main ones. In order to avoid gastrointestinal discomfort, eat a small amount of light food first, and then gradually increase it. Do not take supplements immediately. In terms of movement, the main thing is to stay in bed and rest. Get up and take action gradually, and do what you can..."

Wang and Li Xiandong listened attentively and nodded repeatedly, wishing to remember every word.

According to the medical advice of Dr. Ning, and under the strict execution of Wang and Li Xiandong, after another three days, Li Xiaohan was finally able to stand up and move slowly.

"Xiao Han, come on, take a sip of the old hen soup. The oil slick has been skimmed off. I asked Dr. Ning and mixed it with medicinal materials. You can drink a little. The concierge said that this chicken was sent by a strong man. He yelled that it was given to you, threw it down and ran away, unable to catch up. He had no choice but to send it to the kitchen. Eat it, don't waste other people's thoughts. "

The concierge of General Zhang's Mansion used to boast that he was well-informed, but this was the first time he had seen these things in his life.

He can guarantee that there are not many concierges in Ding City who have seen him. Who can be as popular as Miss Li?

Li Xiaohan looked at the bowl of old chicken soup. It was golden in color, with a strong aroma of chicken soup, and a faint taste of medicinal herbs.

She brought it over and slowly drank it all.

He didn't know whether it was because the medicine was really effective or because of some strange reasons, but Li Xiaohan really felt that the speed of his body's recovery since waking up was really amazing.

In this case, it's time to bring up certain things, "Mom, my health is mostly healed. The only thing left is to rest. Let's move home tomorrow."

By moving back home, Wang and Li Xiandong won't have to be so uncomfortable; it's really inappropriate for them to have been living in Zhang's house, not suitable for their career, and not suitable for their relationship.

Mrs. Wang glanced at Li Xiaohan in embarrassment, "Then... have you asked Dr. Ning and the others first?"

"I have already asked Dr. Ning this morning. Dr. Ning said that there is no problem for me to move now. The rest of the time I need to follow up for follow-up consultations and take medicines in the city."

"Since Dr. Ning said it's okay, let's move. Thank you Mr. Zhang very much, and let's go home." Mrs. Wang should be happy after knowing that Dr. Ning agreed.

Li Xiaohan was stunned for a moment, but after thinking about it for a moment, he understood that Wang and Li Xiandong were even more uncomfortable with it. If it were not for themselves, such a living environment would be extremely uncomfortable for Wang and Li Xiandong.

Mrs. Wang and Li Xiandong were indeed very unaccustomed to it. They just had to sit idle and had no work to do. What was even more difficult was that as soon as they left the house, a servant told them what the master and his wife had ordered. They were so frightened that they could not live here. This is a place where I don't dare to take a step further, and I don't dare to say more words.

However, there are doctors here at all times, including Dr. Zhang and Dr. Ning who come for consultation. There are all kinds of life-saving medicinal materials... Wang and Li Xiandong have to be shameless for their daughter no matter what. Lived.

It's just that now, my daughter seems to be passing by day by day. There were some things that I couldn't take care of because of my daughter's illness in the past, but now I have to think about it.

For example, if your daughter and Mr. Zhang continue to live together, it will be bad for your daughter's reputation if things come to pass in the future; if things don't work out in the future, it will be even worse.

Previously, it was understandable that it was about human life, but now, it is unjustifiable to continue living here.

Also, they live here and have never seen any other Zhang family members except Mr. Zhang. It is said that General Zhang has been accompanying the emperor while Mrs. Zhang is recuperating in the hot spring village. General Zhang is the second son of Zhang and his brother is stationed outside.

According to the principles of their village, it is wrong no matter what, so now that the illness is better, they should move out and wait for the family to come back, then come back with heavy gifts to say thank you.

Due to various concerns, Li Xiaohan said that he wanted to move away. Wang only asked Dr. Ning if he agreed. After confirming, he immediately agreed.

Now that I have decided to move out, I naturally have to inform Zhang Fu, the current sole owner of the Zhang Mansion.

Qin Tianjian calculated that the day when Shengjia would move the capital was the day after tomorrow. Zhang Fu was so busy that he had no time to spare, but just like that, every day after dusk, he would take time to come to Songxi Garden to take a look.

But when Li Xiaohan said that he wanted to move away, Zhang Fu was not as happy as he expected. Instead, he hesitated and hesitated to speak.

"What? What's the problem?" Li Xiaohan asked in surprise.

Zhang Fu glanced around and saw that there were few people living in Songxi Courtyard. Wang and Li Xiandong avoided them. Qingzhu and others were not around, and the servants stepped forward without a glance.

However, for the sake of safety, Zhang Fu still lowered his voice and said, "My father sent me news that His Majesty... His Majesty seems to have wanted you to join the royal family."

He remembered what his father told him at that time.

"The issue of the remaining party is too involved and has too many secrets. I didn't want you to get involved. But now you actually jumped into it. Then when the matter is done, you will retreat immediately. Our family has finally entered the right path." Tao, don't enter the side door again."

"Your Majesty seems to be interested in bringing Miss Li and the prince together. I have already smoothed things over for you, saying that the two families have exchanged tokens. You can see to it yourself."

"Son, I heard recently that their family is looking for a son-in-law. This marriage is not as simple as you think. Are you willing to bear such a great achievement? I can't bear to be your father. Now you can still regret it. It's too late, don't regret it in the future or make mistakes for others or yourself!"

Zhang Fu shook his head slightly, and his expression returned to normal for a moment.

Li Xiaohan was dumbfounded. No matter how much she thought about it, she never thought that there was such a possibility.

She has never met any prince before, so logically this is not the case. Could it be...could it be the emperor himself!

No, the emperor is too old.

Not even if you're not old! Could it be that after finally surviving, you have to fight in the palace?

Li Xiaohan's face was green and white, and he was very ugly.

"Which one is it?"

Zhang Fu listened to Li Xiaohan's words and even made the sound of grinding his teeth. He looked up and quickly explained, "I didn't say which prince. My father pushed it back secretly. He said... He said that our two families said It's settled, I even gave you the token."

After saying that, Zhang Fu lowered his head with a little shame or something else.

After all, it somewhat implies taking advantage of others' danger, killing first and showing off later.

If Zhang Fu says you don't need to care, that's just to reject the emperor's words. If you don't want to... Zhang Fu doesn't want to say such pretentious and generous words.

Hearing this, Li Xiaohan's face brightened slightly. If not the emperor himself, this boss could still ask for it. Otherwise, it would be really difficult. In this feudal era, there is really no choice when it comes to changing a boss.

Looking at Zhang Fu again, Zhang Fu had lowered his head and did not dare to look at her.

Li Xiaohan looked at the hair crown on Zhang Fu's head and was stunned.

Well, the tips of his ears are actually getting red.

It was only in hindsight that Li Xiaohan slowly began to understand the large amount of information contained in Zhang Fu's few sentences.

Except for the prelude that the emperor wanted to find him as his son's wife, what was left was that General Zhang paired himself with Zhang Fu in front of the emperor. The advantage of this is that the crisis at that time is gone. The difficulty is that I and Zhang Fu are probably successful.

After hearing that he was going to move out, Zhang Fucai was so hesitant because the two families had not made an agreement at all, nor had they exchanged so-called tokens, so Zhang Fucai hoped that he would stay here and make this matter a reality. .

Li Xiaohan looked at the reddish tips of Zhang Fu's ears, and then realized that his face felt a little hot.

There was an ambiguous silence in the air.

"I...I've thought about it."

Zhang Fu swallowed his saliva and slowly raised his head to look at Li Xiaohan. His face was serious, but his cheeks were flushed. His tone was slow and clear, and his eyes were clear and firm. "After the relocation of the capital is over, my father will be able to go home without having to be escorted by the Holy Emperor. Then my father and I will go to the hot spring village together and ask my parents to come forward and invite the official media."

"Do you have any requirements for your family?"

His eyes were as bright as stars.

This was not the first time that Li Xiaohan had been confessed to, but this time, her heartbeat began to intensify, as if she was uncontrollable.

"Probably... no." Li Xiaohan's face was a little dull, but he actually didn't react.

What was the process of getting married in ancient times? What should the woman do? She really hadn't considered this before.

Zhang Fu looked at Li Xiaohan's face. She didn't smile. Was it because she didn't want to?

But she didn't object. That means you are willing!

She must be willing!

Zhang Fu felt that his heart was beating fast and his head was hot, but he instinctively knew what he should do at this time.

Stretching out his hand, with a little trembling that he couldn't even detect, he gently took out a month-old cloth bag wrapped in white silk from his arms.

Gently unfold the cloth bag, and inside is a piece of white jade pendant, which is warm in color, simple and elegant.

"...This is the jade pendant my mother gave me when I was crowned."

So Li Xiaohan understood that this was a token.

She almost reached out. After all, beauty is alluring and true love is rare.

But falling in love and getting married are two different things. It was too fast to get to this point, and she had to state some conditions first.

"I may have to have a condition." Li Xiaohan felt embarrassed. She stared closely into Zhang Fu's eyes. If Zhang Fu had any hesitation, she would probably give up at this moment. "I only have two daughters in my family. I have an industry behind me..."

"I have a big brother." Before the future could finish speaking, Zhang Fu had already taken over.

Li Xiaohan's eyes widened in surprise. She even felt a little unreal and blurted out, "Are you willing? Your family is willing?"

"Not very willing. After all, this road will have a lot more obstacles for me, and I'm not stupid enough to ask for trouble." When talking about this topic, it was like returning to eat and drink from the clouds, Zhang Fu felt Like the usual Zhang Fu, but not quite like him.

"But I have weighed it. If there are only two choices, then this one is acceptable to me."

At least this resistance was too much, and he couldn't afford to lose another one - in these days and nights, he had already thought about it very clearly.

This is what he told his father, "No one can guarantee that the future will never change. But without the present, I don't want the future at all."

What he said was very ordinary, but very true, and Li Xiaohan believed it.

No one can guarantee the future, but at this moment he is real. They all know it.

that's enough.

Maybe she will regret it in the future, but she believes that both of them can bear the consequences of regretting and starting over.

"Actually, what I haven't finished saying is that I want a child with my own surname." Li Xiaohan picked up the jade pendant and slowly touched it on his fingertips, "Inherit my industry, my will, and my existence. "

Even her surname is not what she pursues, but in this world, surnames are always associated with many things.

She wanted to leave behind something tangible and intangible, to keep herself. If she didn't want to lose her name and be invisible, she wanted someone to inherit her bloodline, surname, relationships, and interests. and idea people.

Otherwise, there is no difference between her living and gradually dying.

But she is not tough and powerful enough. She not only hopes for worldly happiness, but also pursues her own existence.

She has always hoped for a win-win situation, and she has to take a big gamble on her most immediate happiness. She wants both - a son-in-law. In this era, that may completely cut off Zhang Fu's path.

She didn't need Zhang Fu to sacrifice himself to prove his love for her.

Perfection is for each other.

"Okay." Zhang Fu grabbed the jade pendant on Li Xiaohan's fingertips and slowly put it on Li Xiaohan. Finally, the dust settled, "Thank you, Miss Li, for giving me a chance."

"It's a great honor for me."

Li Xiaohan couldn't help but laugh, it was rare for this person to be like this.

Touch the jade pendant on your body. The token should belong to both parties. But she was recovering from her injuries, and she didn't have many accessories on her body. For a while, she really didn't have anything suitable for her.

After thinking about it, she took off the hairpin from her head - it was not the one given by Zhang Fu. When she woke up, Mrs. Wang asked her to take it off and put it away.

It's okay to say that Wang just throws it away after use, and it doesn't matter if she is late and reserved. Anyway, Wang is really in a dilemma, hesitant and worried, and she can't pass her own test. So Li Xiaohan wore another white jade hairpin.

This moment is just right. Li Xiaohan pulled out the hairpin with one hand, handed it to Zhang Fu, and said with a smile, "Promise, token."

The black hair behind her is like a waterfall, flying down.

Zhang Fu was stunned for a moment.

"What, you don't want it?" Li Xiaohan raised his eyebrows and teased.

As soon as he finished speaking, Zhang Fu quickly grabbed the hairpin, held it tightly, paused, and suddenly stood up, "I... I'm leaving first. You take a good rest."

After that, leave quickly.

Li Xiaohan was left puzzled, and only later did he remember that seeing someone with his hair down seemed to be an extremely intimate thing.

Forget it, as long as I am not embarrassed, others will be embarrassed; as long as I am not shy, others will be shy.

From now on, we will all be our own people.

=== Chapter === 210

The tokens have been exchanged and the words have been spoken. Let's move it at a good time when the wind and sunshine are beautiful. If we keep it, it will only cause more trouble. We can't let the official media walk from Zhang's Mansion to Zhang's Mansion. .

The Li family is no longer what it used to be. They no longer live in Gumen Alley in Fucheng and have already built a new house on Chunxi Road.

Chunxi Road is more prosperous and convenient. The most important thing is that several members of the Li clan have bought houses here so that they can take care of each other. In the three years of constant war, this aspect is better than others.

As soon as Li Xiaohan's family came back, the Li clan came to visit after hearing the news. However, he was afraid that the crowd would disturb Li Xiaohan's recuperation, so clan leader Li stopped the clan members and came to visit first.

Li Xinhe came here with Patriarch Li. In the past three years, Patriarch Li has become more mature and energetic, while Li Xinhe has become more mature and smooth.

However, when they met, neither of them could maintain their usual calm image. They breathed a big sigh of relief obviously. The first words they said were straight from the heart, "You wake up, that's good. That's good." Got it!"

Discussing emotions, reasoning, family righteousness, and personal emotions, since Li Xiaohan was injured, Patriarch Li and his son have not been worried for a moment. Unfortunately, they can only accompany Li Xiandong and his wife to worry. Now that Li Xiaohan can wake up, the two of them are relieved.

Li Xiaohan smiled, "No. I didn't expect that I was unconscious for so long."

"It makes us all anxious. People from the clan come here every day to ask how you are doing."

"Thank you for your concern. Chief Fan would like to tell you that when I get better, I will go back and thank you all."

"They are all members of the family. What they are saying is polite. You can rest in peace and rest. Don't worry about clan affairs. Taking good care of your body is the most important thing."

Patriarch Li and Li Xinhe were both very sensible. They heard that Li Xiaohan had to wait until he recovered from his illness before he came out. They didn't bother to talk about anything, but just waited for a while to let Li Xiaohan get better. After recuperating, he said goodbye and left.

Li Xiaohan is not so sick that she can't see people. She is getting better day by day, but she needs some time to think about the future.

The emperor once had the idea of making her the royal daughter-in-law. Whether this idea was spurred on by a whim or whether it would continue to lead to other complications, Li Xiaohan must treat it with caution.

Especially since I have to beg for food from this person in the future.

It's a pity that she went through all the descriptions of the emperor in her memory, as well as all the important events recorded in her own pinyin. After repeated memories, comparisons, and summaries, she could only come to one conclusion:

This is a wise king, or in other words, this is an emperor who has the idea and the ability to become a wise king.

An emperor's background must be complex and ever-changing, and cannot simply be described as a wise emperor and a cowardly emperor.

But if the emperor wants to be a wise king, he will have certain pursuits and scruples about his ideas and actions as emperor. He will pursue his achievements and popularity when he is in power, and he will scruple about the descriptions in the history books of future generations.

So after the big event of moving the capital, as a wise emperor, the most likely thing he would do is to reward his subordinates for their efforts in supporting them.

And I can be considered a meritorious party to the emperor. Becoming a royal daughter-in-law may not be a reward from the emperor according to current concepts.

If it doesn't work now, there should be a follow-up.

You have to think about it carefully, what would the emperor do?

Most importantly, what do you want?

How do I need to deal with it to get what I want from the emperor?

While thinking about it, the capital relocation ceremony came as scheduled.

It is said that on that day, there was a huge crowd of people watching the imperial chariot entering the city, and all the people were rejoicing together, making it extremely lively.

Li Xiaohan did not go out to attend this grand event. After all, she had to 'recuperate', but she forwarded several pieces of news, which even Li Xiandong and Wang heard a lot about, and then leaked it to Li Xiaohan. After all, this is a national event.

The emperor's summons came three days after the capital was moved.

As Li Xiaohan put on his official uniform, he could not control his thoughts.

Does this mean that the emperor is really diligent in his duties? It only took three days for it to be his turn.

Or you can think better, you are important after all, and it will be your turn on the third day.

By the time he actually arrived at the imperial city and walked through the quiet, deep and majestic palace, Li Xiaohan could no longer think about anything.

She calmed down.

This has always been the case, and she will always be the calmest at the most critical moments.

Just like in the past, she did better than usual on every important exam, just like she hid in the bathroom with half a bottle of water during the earthquake.

"My lord, please see your majesty and the queen."

It was strange that the Emperor and the Empress came together to summon her.

Li Xiaohan was a little confused, but not panicked. After all, accidents are normal, and the key lies with the emperor.

"Li Aiqing, please get back on your feet."

The emperor's tone above was easy-going, even a little joyful.

"Thank you, Your Majesty."

Li Xiaohan didn't dare to raise his head to take a closer look, but with his peripheral vision, he saw that the emperor and empress were wearing regular clothes, sitting on both sides of the table, with a relaxed posture, even a bit like an ordinary old married couple.

It seems that the queen is very important to the emperor.

Also, it is said that the empress and the emperor were married as teenagers and had always been very harmonious. Later, during the battle at Dingcheng, the empress still defended Dingcheng until the emperor returned.

A queen with emotions and abilities in the harem has a great influence on the emperor.

Is there anything I need the emperor and the empress to handle together? Could it be that the emperor hasn't given up on that idea yet?

Li Xiaohan's inner worries increased, but his face was respectful.

The emperor continued to speak, but not to Li Xiaohan, but to the empress, "I told you, you will like it. You have always liked this kind of girl, I think she looks a bit like her Your temperament."

"I know. I've heard of it, but you have to ask other people's opinions."

The queen spoke slowly and very gently, but she did not follow the emperor's words directly, but expressed her own opinions.

Moreover, the terms of addressing each other were you and me, not your majesty and my concubine. It was so commonplace, and it was very possible that the two of them were talking about family matters rather than state affairs, which was why they were chatting in such a manner.

Li Xiaohan felt even worse.

"Miss Li, His Majesty often told me that you are a very smart girl, and Dingcheng has benefited a lot from you. However, because you are a woman, it is difficult to reward you. Your Majesty then suggested that we accept you as our righteous I wonder if Miss Li would like to be granted the title of County Lord and enjoy the second-grade title and salary?"

The queen spoke very kindly, with a slight intimacy and smile, much like a loving and enlightened mother.

It turned out to be like this, it turned out to be like this, that's why the emperor and empress met her together, so the atmosphere was so normal, because this was to become the royal family.

Li Xiaohan suddenly realized, and all his previous doubts were instantly solved.

So, do you want to be this adopted daughter?

It seems that this is a strategy that has the best of both worlds. From then on, she has both the honor of the royal family and the freedom to get married.

What I need to do in the future may be to fulfill the responsibilities of a 'noble daughter', contact high families, honor my 'parents', enjoy the flowers in spring and the moon in autumn, drink wine in the courtyard, and become a master, rich and noble. Idle people. After all, that's all the princess, princess, and county princess can do. As for intervening in politics, a biological child has little power, let alone an adopted daughter.

Agreeing, she can enjoy wealth and glory from now on.

Just forget about yourself in the previous life.

No! Li Xiaohan felt a chill coming from the depths of her soul, making her tremble all over.

This is not what she wants!

It's okay to become a wife, but you can't become a wife and then her name will be hidden and her figure will be blurred;

It's okay to be a "daughter", but you can't become a "daughter" and then be trapped in a cage and live like a wealthy ornament.

Even these 'parents' are the most noble in the world.

She should be herself, and the knowledge she has learned, the distance she has traveled, and the achievements she has achieved should all have her name written on them.

She should stand in front of others, not hide behind her!

"My lord, I don't want to."

Li Xiaohan knelt down and knocked his forehead on the ground, his tone was trembling and firm.

At this moment, her soul was straight, looking down at her body calmly in mid-air.

"Oh, you feel that I have wronged you by making you the county head."

The emperor sat up straight, his words no longer contained the relaxed smile, only heavy displeasure and coercion remained.

After all, when the emperor asks you if you are willing, you are not asked to say no.

"I don't dare. It is a great honor to be the adopted daughter of His Majesty and the Queen. Because of this, I don't dare. It is my duty to receive a salary from the court and do things that are loyal to the emperor. Don't dare to think too much anymore."

Thank you for wearing this casual official attire.

"I don't see that you have any intention of not daring." His Majesty the Emperor was still extremely unhappy, making him breathless.

"Your Majesty, you've done this again." On the contrary, the Queen showed no signs of anger and was extremely energetic. "Parents and children are destined to be destined by God. How can we still buy and sell by force? Why don't we let Miss Li and I do it?" Let's talk about it again, and you won't get angry at this again."

Li Xiaohan didn't dare to raise his head, and couldn't see the emperor's expression at this moment, but the emperor didn't say anything anymore, obviously convinced by the queen.

"Miss Li, the county lord has a second-grade title, and Miss Li is only wearing a seventh-grade official uniform. Considering her rank, is it possible that Miss Li is really willing to give up?" the queen asked, with questions in her words and more profound meanings. Hidden in it, the meaning is unclear.

"I wear seventh-grade clothes and do seventh-grade things. I have a clear conscience for heaven and earth, your majesty and all the people. I can't bear to part with these seventh-grade clothes." Li Xiaohan was gambling.

"Oh, does the Li Qing family know that as a woman, it is very difficult for you to gain a foothold in the officialdom? It is very likely that from now on, you will not make any progress, or even retreat if you do not advance. Are you sure the Li Qing family will not regret it in the future?"

Li Xiaohan was right in his bet, and the queen changed her title. Although it doesn't sound good, sometimes it doesn't sound right.

Leaders who are willing to tell you the truth are the beginning of opportunities.

"Your majesty is wise, and you will never look down on a minor minister because of his female body. Otherwise, how could a minor minister come to wear official clothes? The official examination of our dynasty is full, and based on the salary of one's experience, he will be given three years of preliminary examination. , take the exam again in six years, and pass the exam in nine years. How a minor minister is an official is supervised by the officials of the Ministry of Personnel and Supervision, and judged by His Majesty's sage. If the minor minister makes no progress, it must be the minor minister's fault. The minor minister is willing to follow the rules If you are disciplined and punished, there will be no complaints."

"Even if you can go further, there are many dangers in this officialdom. The Li Qing family was poisoned this time because of the rebellion caused by Emperor Shang's party, and almost lost their lives. As women, the Li Qing family should not let themselves be You are always in danger, why don't you take a step back, I will keep you safe and clean, and enjoy the glory and wealth."

If the queen were born in modern times, she would be an excellent manager, using both carrots and sticks very well.

Li Xiaohan seemed to be separated from himself, his body was completely unable to affect his brain, and his thoughts were turning faster and faster: The Queen really knows a lot.

A queen who knows so much and is so capable will never think that she can be safe and clean by retreating behind the scenes.

Zhang Fu also said later that she was assassinated. It was true that the old man was a traitor, and it was true that he was the candle maker. It was true that he had a mission to assassinate her. It was also true that he hated her. That was why he acted without authorization before moving the capital. , so two kinds of poisons are used - superimposed bee venom, which is a kind of private revenge.

"Back to the Queen, I don't think that by taking a step back, I can just sit back and enjoy the glory and wealth. There was a chaos in Dingcheng before, and the Queen led everyone to defend the city, which made us admire the Queen. The talents of the Queen are beyond my reach. . It's just that I was born rough and knew that I could only do rough martial arts, so I didn't dare to accept it."

"Oh, even if we face the next assassination, the next assassination?"

"Go back to your Majesty, I will not be afraid of anyone if I do the right thing."

The trend of the times is rolling forward, and no one can go back against history.

She taught the white wax method and made allicin, but she was paddling along the waves of the times. Occasionally she encountered a stubborn stone. It was not her fault and it could not stop her.

"Your Majesty, this is your subject, not my daughter. It's up to you, Your Majesty, to make the decision." The Queen turned to the Emperor and smiled.

The smile in the words was a little more real, as if there was a hint of appreciation.

"You are right. This is not throwing the problem back to me again." The emperor was not angry at the queen, he just muttered.

"Your Majesty, this is a matter for the court, so it is my concubine who throws this problem to you." The Queen said sternly.

"Okay, okay, okay, I understand." The emperor changed his tone again.

He just turned to Li Xiaohan, put away his laziness and helplessness, and turned into a business-like coldness, "Li Qing's family, I gave you an easy way, why do you have to ask for trouble?" eat."

This makes him very embarrassed now.

If you don't seal it, it's easy for people to say that you just throw it away after using it. Especially Li Xiaohan still has a good reputation among the people, and he has paid great attention to the public opinion recently.

Let's seal it. If she is not the head of the county, how can she be promoted? How can she be a woman who goes to court every day to serve as an official and discuss politics?

"How can a humble minister ask for trouble? Is it because your Majesty has never had a woman as an official in this dynasty, and your Majesty feels embarrassed?"

Li Xiaohan raised his head slightly and looked directly at the sky, "Your Majesty, the First Emperor unified the six kingdoms. His writings were written with the same text, and his carriages were running on the same track. He did something unprecedented and was the first to unify; Emperor Wu conquered the country. From all sides, attack the Xiongnu hard and raise the prestige of our country so that no foreign tribe dares to invade. Emperor Taizong established the imperial examination system for the first time and laughed happily, 'The heroes of the world are among my men.' Your Majesty, no one can say anything without precedent."

The emperor's posture has become extremely upright without knowing it, his face is solemn, his mouth is pursed, and his eyes are fierce. His silence is more authoritative than the emperor's reprimand just now.

Li Xiaohan was like a newcomer who was just starting out. Not only did he not shy away from Tianyan, he also continued speaking with a frown on his face.

"His Majesty, newly enthroned, moved the capital to Dingcheng and threatened the emperor to guard the gates of the country to prevent foreigners from entering the Central Plains. This is truly the act of a holy king."

Yes, you have been practicing this sentence all your life, not only guarding the country but also attacking foreigners. Your Majesty, it is written in the book that you are a pursuing emperor.

"How can your Majesty be trapped by external rules and blocked by rumors because there is no precedent?"

No, Your Majesty, you are quite fond of fame. In order to prove that your father was wrong in not choosing you, you have worked hard all your life to pursue your career. The secret history says that you have to burn paper money to your father every year and talk about the great things you have done.

"Although I am a woman, I am still willing to follow Your Majesty's glory of the sun and the moon, build achievements that have never been seen before, and establish a prosperous era that will carry on the past and open up the future."

Come on, learn from your ancestors. When you are an emperor, you have to do something different, so that you can be famous and famous for thousands of years.

After eloquently speaking for a long time, Li Xiaohan finally finished speaking and laid his head tightly on the ground to show his respect.

She had already thought of an escape route before coming.

The emperor would not kill her right now. Killing her would have no advantages but only disadvantages. The worst thing would be to be left out in the cold and go home to plant medicinal herbs.

If her old job is over, the worst she can do is start all over again.

However, the floor tiles of Anning Palace are so cold and hard, freezing to the bone.

Deathly silence!

"Okay, I will give you this opportunity. I will appoint you as a foreign minister of the Ministry of Industry and report on a different day."

"I am a humble minister, thank you Your Majesty. I will serve you to the best of my ability, even to the death."

This level has been passed.

She does not need to forget where she came from, lose her name, and just live to be someone's wife, someone's daughter, and eventually become a decoration on someone else's clothes and an embellishment in their words.

She can be a wife and a daughter; but she cannot be just a wife or a daughter.

Before all roles, she earned the chance to be herself.

Li Xiaohan didn't know how he got out of the palace walls. He only felt that after he came out, the autumn sunshine made his eyes completely white.

As for her, several layers of clothes were soaked on her back with sweat, her legs were as heavy as a thousand pounds, and every step she took on the ground took all her strength.

But she still could only move forward step by step and never fall.

Fortunately, there was Li Xiandong driving a carriage outside the palace gate, and Mrs. Wang was waiting with Li Xiaoshuang in her arms.

Zhang Fu was riding a horse aside.

Seeing that she came out safely, he smiled and waved to her.

Li Xiaohan seemed to have some strength again and walked forward quickly.

Behind him, the setting sun is like blood, reflecting the majestic palace walls.

"Text End"