As the Villainess Daughter-in-Law

by Usui Takumii

not mine, asia novel dot net. Total: 112 Chapters and 2 Extras. Beware edited mtl. Waiting for the translator to update.

10. 46 to 50

Chapter 46: The Intricacies of the Matter

◎This daughter-in-law of the Mu family is quite capable indeed!◎

The courtyard of the Hu family was bustling with people, forming concentric circles, chattering noisily.

At first, only a couple approached to inquire about work opportunities. But after receiving Yu Lian's confirmation, news spread quickly throughout the village, and virtually every villager who had nothing else to do came over. Some, despite not yet finishing their farm chores due to their slow pace, hastily rushed over, hoping to secure these well-paid jobs before the spring rush. Otherwise, finding work in town or the city would become much more challenging.

By then, competition for limited jobs would be fierce, and earning a few silver coins would be difficult, not to mention the arduous journey back and forth. It was far more convenient to work within the village!

Even the village's notorious lazybones showed up. When asked why he had abandoned his unfinished fieldwork, he replied, "Working in the fields doesn't bring immediate coin. Doing odd jobs for others guarantees instant payment. That's the real deal; only a fool would pass it up!"

Villagers tended to speak loudly, so what was already a lively scene turned into a village-wide gathering, leaving no empty space in the Hu family's courtyard. Yu Lian felt no joy in being the "host"; instead, she helplessly put her hand to her forehead. The old lady, facing such a crowd for the first time, found it rather overwhelming and, with a headache, asked Mrs. Chen to support her inside, leaving the matter entirely in Yu Lian's hands.

This suited Mrs. Chen just fine. She had wanted to retreat to the house but, having been scolded by her mother-in-law for the previous housewarming feast, felt reluctant to hide. Nevertheless, upon receiving the order, she promptly helped the old lady indoors.

In the courtyard, besides young wives and aunts, there were mostly rough-hewn men eagerly seeking work, their voices boisterous and unashamed.

"Uncle Blockhead, Uncle Blockhead, could you give us a definite answer?"

"Yes, Brother Log, we're idle at the moment, with plenty of strength to spare. We'll surely build your new house beautifully, as good as it can get. And you mentioned clearing land, we're skilled in farm work too, we're quite capable."

Sanshu also chimed in, "Uncle Log..."

Silent for a while, Uncle Log Hua Zhan, also known as Brother Log, pressed his forehead before interjecting, "This matter... I'm not in charge. Ask my daughter-in-law, she manages all household affairs."

The villagers looked perplexed, not understanding what 'household affairs' meant. Second Grandpa knocked on the table to enlighten them, "That's a term used by wealthy families, referring to managing all daily matters, from finances to interpersonal relationships. When I was young and went to take the exams, I heard about it. In such families, it's usually the lady of the house or the eldest son's wife who oversees the household affairs. Presumably, that's how it is for the Huas."

Hua Zhan nodded in agreement.

Upon hearing this, the villagers realized that it was indeed the young and beautiful Yu Lian who was in charge of the Hua family. She was stunningly beautiful, like an ethereal fairy, with delicate features on her small face and flawless fair skin. Her demeanor didn't resemble a country girl at all. No words from the villagers could fully describe her beauty, she was simply breathtaking!

Seeing such a beautiful young woman, how could Hua Zhan and the elder be at ease entrusting her with household matters? Even though they had fallen on hard times and ended up in the countryside, they were once part of a noble household. Regardless of their wealth, there must have been numerous affairs to manage. This girl was truly remarkable.

Before, the villagers had only heard from the aunties, wives, and grandmothers who had interacted with Yu Lian, saying she was a good person. Despite her noble background, she was clever and resourceful. However, these were secondhand accounts, and their understanding of her was limited. Now, seeing her up close and receiving confirmation from Hua Zhan that his daughter-in-law was in charge, some of them began to regard her with more respect.

Men typically spoke bluntly among themselves, not bothering with formalities, even when talking to village women. But now, when it came to conversing with the beautiful and refined Miss Yu Lian, they became hesitant and unsure of how to approach her. They didn't want to frighten her with loud voices or feel awkward with soft ones. For a moment, even though eager to secure work, they fell silent.

Some who had brought their wives along nudged them discreetly, encouraging their spouses to speak with Yu Lian.

Thus, a group of aunts and married women approached Yu Lian warmly and politely, trying to get closer to her. Some, unsure of what to call her, simply referred to her as Miss.

Yu Lian chuckled softly. "Aunts, please don't be formal. My family name is Yu, and my given name is Lian. You can just call me by my name."

According to the current custom, most women took their husbands' surnames or were known by their husbands' family names after marriage. For instance, Mrs. Chen was called Wood's wife by these aunts behind her back since she had married Hua Zhan.

Yu Lian only mentioned her own name without mentioning her husband, which led the onlookers to imagine that she might be too sorrowful to mention him. They also knew some of the peculiarities surrounding her marriage and felt a sense of affection and sympathy for her. Thus, they smiled, changing the subject and addressing her as Lian-er, with some of the older ones affectionately calling her Lian girl.

The atmosphere instantly became lively and cordial, as if Yu Lian was already part of their family.

Having interacted with people frequently in her previous work life, Yu Lian handled the situation with ease. She wasn't one to prolong pleasantries, so after exchanging a few words, she got straight to the point, explaining the details of the labor recruitment.

"As you've mentioned, clearing the land isn't difficult – digging and weeding are tasks everyone is familiar with. However, building houses might pose a bit more of a challenge. If anyone is skilled in this area, feel free to approach me privately, and we'll discuss separate wages."

Upon hearing this, someone asked, "Will the pay for building houses be higher?"

Yu Lian nodded, and the person responded, "In that case, I'd like to do the house-building work. We've built our own homes before, so it won't be a problem for me."

Yu Lian replied with a smile, "For those who want to sign up, please register with me first. Tomorrow, I'll decide on each person's assignment based on their individual circumstances."

This implied that they couldn't choose anymore; she would have to make the selection herself. Some who had never built a house before felt uneasy about not being able to pick the higher-paying jobs, and one of them couldn't help but voice their concern, "That's not fair. Why would the pay differ when we're all putting in the same effort?"

Yu Lian replied, "Everyone, please don't worry. It's not just based on experience. If you're physically strong and diligent, you'll also have priority. The difference in pay isn't significant. What I need is someone well-versed in building houses to lead and take charge. That person will be called the foreman, and their compensation will be much higher. If you know anyone suitable, feel free to recommend them."

Although ancient house construction wasn't as technically demanding as modern skyscrapers, Yu Lian took it seriously since it concerned the safety of habitation. None of her family members were knowledgeable in this area, so it was better to find an expert to oversee the project.

"Once everyone has registered today, come back at the same time tomorrow."

Pausing here, Yu Lian scanned the crowd, slowing down her speech but with a more serious tone, causing people to disregard her age and appearance, instead listening attentively:

"Any matter involving money or employment can easily lead to disputes. So, I'll be straightforward. I won't tolerate laziness or taking advantage of the neighborly bond. There are quite a number of people in this village, and even though I need workers for land clearance and house construction, it might not require all of you. Some might not be selected, but don't worry. There will be other tasks in the future where everyone will have a chance."

After Yu Lian finished speaking, the courtyard fell silent for a moment. Then, a man said, "How could we be lazy? We're all hardworking people."

"That's right! Laziness means no food!"

Second Uncle chimed in, "Listen carefully when you're spoken to. Are you saying you're the only ones who are hardworking? Don't think you can slack off or deceive just because she's new here from the capital and might be less familiar with village ways. If you're chosen, work diligently. Didn't you hear what Lian said about there being more work in the future?"

Upon Second Uncle's reminder, the villagers nodded sincerely. As they dispersed, small groups left, whispering among themselves about the Huas.

Most of them were talking about Yu Lian.

"I have to say, this young lady from the capital is truly remarkable. Her words carry weight, and her approach to hiring workers is quite sophisticated. She had me flabbergasted. When I worked for the landlord in the town last time, I didn't feel nearly as nervous."

"Indeed, she's nothing like us common folk. Despite her youth, she speaks with an authority that even surpasses my old man. I feel both delighted and uneasy listening to her."

"One can't be both happy and unhappy at the same time, huh? Haha! Do you have two heads to experience two emotions simultaneously? Don't tell me you're simple-minded."

A burly man rubbed his head, looking earnest as he replied, "I can't quite put it into words. Anyway, I'll do my best tomorrow. If I can work hard, I'm sure I'll be chosen!"

"You're right, my heart is still in my throat. Tomorrow, I must put on a commendable performance. It's always good to work diligently and earn more money sooner."

Lazily strolling by, Hua Sanduo, a good-for-nothing, had a stem of dogtail grass between his teeth. Upon seeing him, a group of people couldn't help but jest at his retreating figure.

"Such is his condition, thin as a rake, neither tall nor sturdy, and incredibly lazy to boot. He hasn't finished his farm work, nor has he attended to his wife who has just given birth. There's no chance he would be chosen, so why bother coming?"

Hua Sanduo paused upon hearing this, turning his head to cast a disdainful glance with his almond-shaped eyes, enraging the group considerably. "A bunch of fools," he scoffed.

With those words, the person departed gracefully.

A few idle young men from the neighboring villages joined in, linking arms with them as they strolled along, further fueling the villagers' disdain and whispers behind their backs.

...

Uncle Two and Grandma Two lingered in the Hua family courtyard, engaging in casual conversation. Yu Lian also exchanged a few words with Uncle Two, mainly to inquire about the suitable crops for the riverbank land.

Uncle Two replied, "Rice and wheat could be cultivated there, but it would require diligent care, heavily reliant on the weather conditions."

Looking up at the sky, he advised, "If it's just for your family's consumption, you wouldn't need such a vast plot. Perhaps it's better to lease part of it to others and collect a third of the profits as rent."

To avoid displeasing Hua Zhan and Yu Lian, he explained, "Farming isn't an easy business these days. The government taxes are high, and during poor harvests, farmers might even have to cover tax losses. With a large piece of land like yours, a bad crop could lead to significant financial strain."

"Take my advice, having enough food for the family is sufficient. Don't take on such great risks. If you lease it, you'll still receive rental income."

Hua Zhan was unfamiliar with agricultural matters, while Yu Lian had some thoughts but chose not to speak until she had sorted them out. She merely thanked Uncle Two for his guidance.

Following that, Uncle Two warned about the unreliable villagers and those who were hardworking and diligent. Most of the villagers were industrious, but Uncle Two had a particular disdain for people like Hua Sanduo.

"He's been idle since childhood, never showing any diligence. His mother passed away from his behavior, and now, with his wife having a child, there's no one to look after them or help with the farm work. He has delayed his tasks to this day. His elder brothers ignore him, and he's always seeking quick money, likely to shirk responsibilities. Don't hire him."

He then mentioned a few more troublemakers: alcoholics, gamblers, and those with ill intentions who were always seeking shortcuts. In short, even in the best of villages, there would be a few rotten apples.

After finishing his tale, he returned home with his wife.

Yu Lian went out to see them off. She watched until they had walked more than ten steps away before coming back. At the entrance, she caught the twins trying to sneak out quietly and dragged them back, causing them to wail about their wicked elder sister.

On their way back, Second Grandpa was still talking to his wife, "That daughter-in-law of Woodenhead's is quite a capable one."

Second Grandma replied, "What do you mean? I think she's a decent girl. A lady from a prominent family, loyal and caring, looking after her family with great attention. What's wrong with that? She's a good child."

Second Grandpa puffed up his cheeks and glared, "Who said anything's wrong? She's good, but she's also formidable. When I went to the capital for the exams in my youth, I heard stories about how ladies and misses from wealthy families carried themselves with rules and strategies, able to manage things well. I think Woodenhead's wife is no slouch. Despite her young age, she has remarkable abilities."

Second Grandma still didn't quite get it.

So, Second Grandpa spelled it out clearly, "Didn't you catch any hint from what she just said?"

"What hint? Didn't she speak quite straightforwardly? I think this girl is genuine."

Second Grandpa: "…That's called wielding both carrot and stick. First, she let us know that there's candy at her place, but then she made it clear about the consequences. This serves as a warning, so that if chosen, one wouldn't dare do anything wrong or slack off but work diligently. If not chosen, one shouldn't bear grudges. Tomorrow, she'll still have tasks for them. A stick and two sweet dates – wouldn't that make them obedient? Come tomorrow morning, they'll surely store up their energy, ready to put on a good show."

"Until you mentioned it, I didn't realize it... Now that you've said so, I do sense a remarkable potential."

"From small signs come great changes. Just wait and see, I believe the Mu family might indeed turn their fortunes around."

He looked up at the sky, contemplating the cycles of fortune. A century ago, his ancestors had succeeded, but today, their descendants stumbled. However, if the family members could gather their strength and persevere, how could they not rise again? Ultimately, it all depended on the people.

As the two elders chatted and strolled back, in the Hua family courtyard, Yu Lian took the twins for a walk before returning to her room. She retrieved the paper and ink she had bought in town and began grinding the ink, carefully drafting a detailed job recruitment notice. Thoughts that had been forming in her mind but not yet fully fleshed out were now put into writing. She worked on this until late into the night, barely having time for a hurried dinner.

The elder lady, seeing this, did not disturb Yu Lian by sending the children to her. The twins, eager to confront their eldest sister, and Little Guo'er, who wanted to talk to her, were both discouraged from entering the room.

She then called her son aside for a conversation. "As a father, you're being too irresponsible. Handing over all household matters to your wife and leaving everything to Lian is not right. How can she manage so many people in the village?"

As a son, he knew better than to argue with his mother. He simply nodded in agreement and, after a pause, added, "Lian is doing a great job."

"It's us, the sons, who don't understand. If we interfere, we would only add to Lian's burden."

After a while, the elder lady seemed to come to a realization. Staring at her son's face for some time, she let out a long, silent sigh and said no more.

Though her son's health appeared marginally improved, it was only through sheer determination that he had managed to keep going. She could tell that Hua Zhan had not fully recovered from the loss of his eldest son, nor from the collapse of the family's century-old foundation. Both incidents had deeply affected him, causing a certain disillusionment and waning enthusiasm.

On the surface, it seemed like he was indifferent, but it was only because he didn't want his family to worry. He was also aware that he was the only adult male in the household now, and he feared that these vulnerable women and children would have no one to protect them. That was why he was putting on a strong front; otherwise, if it were just him, he might have already fallen into despair.

The son was giving the old lady a headache. She waved her hand and said, "It's late, go rest."

This chapter was actually written over ten days ago. I apologized for not posting it despite taking a leave in the author's note. Recently, I've been occupied with real-world matters, traveling alone to a distant place, so I had to make ample preparations. Now, I've finally settled in a new location. Updates will gradually resume. If you have concerns, there's no need to rush and follow the story; wait until it's completed and read it then.

Chapter 47: The Chosen One ◇

◎Not Dirty at All◎

After staying up late the previous night, Yu Lian woke up a bit later the next day. Upon seeing her emerge from her room, the elder lady took her hand with a warm smile, asking about her well-being and saying that if she still felt tired, there was no need to rush out of bed; she could go back to sleep for a while longer.

"Young ladies should take better care of themselves. When you're as old as your grandmother, I hope you'll still be as beautiful as a blooming flower."

Yu Lian chuckled in response. "Grandmother, you're still as beautiful as a flower now. In your youth, you were like a peony, the queen of all flowers, and now, as an elder, you resemble a plum blossom, blossoming on your own without rivalry, calmly observing us young sprouts and blossoms."

Mrs. Chen, who was sewing nearby, heard their conversation and looked up with a smile. Rarely cracking a joke, she asked, "And what about Mother? What does Lian-er think Mother is like?"

Without thinking, Yu Lian replied, "Like a pure white lotus, needing tender care."

"A lotus emerges from the mud unsoiled, just like Mother."

Mrs. Chen's thoughts were straightforward, and she took the comparison as a compliment on her appearance. She laughed joyfully, which was the first time Yu Lian had seen her so happy since she had entered the family. Previously, Mrs. Chen always wore a worried expression, even her beauty seemed to have wilted.

Yu Lian genuinely meant her praise. A woman like Mrs. Chen, if not for the upheavals in her family, would have led a peaceful life within the household, with her husband and son thriving, sparing her from any hardships. Now, with the changes, her character showed some weaknesses, but to Yu Lian, this wasn't a significant issue. People were like clay; their shape might change according to their environment, but once they adapted to the new circumstances, they would reshape themselves to fit the altered life.

Provided one's nature is good, nothing is insurmountable.

Aunt Mei had, without notice, gone to the kitchen and returned with breakfast for Yu Lian. It consisted of a bowl of plain rice porridge and two steamed buns, accompanied by a small plate of pickled vegetables.

Aunt Mei smiled warmly and said, "Lian-er, quickly go freshen up so we can enjoy breakfast. Everything is still warm from the pot; it shouldn't be left to cool."

Aunt Mei seemed more amiable and attentive than ever before. These past few days, she had been busy in the kitchen preparing meals, almost single-handedly taking on all the cooking duties. Little Guo'er, diligent and sensible, would assist her with tasks like stoking the fire and washing vegetables.

Yu Lian studied Aunt Mei closely, but detected no signs of resentment. Instead, there was a hint of ingratiating behavior. Perhaps she had realized that Yu Lian was now in charge of the household and understood the need to curry favor with the person in authority. This was, after all, a survival instinct inherent to her position as a concubine. Back in the mansion, she had sought to please the matriarch and lady of the house, who held power. Now, in the countryside, with Yu Lian at the helm, she was adapting her affections accordingly, hoping to improve her own life.

Yu Lian smiled and nodded at Aunt Mei, who visibly relaxed and beamed even more brightly.

By the time Yu Lian finished washing up in the courtyard, breakfast was already set on the table, complete with chopsticks and spoons. All that was left was for her to sit down and eat.

Addressing Aunt Mei, Yu Lian said, "There's no need for such formality. Cooking is laborious enough; if I'm hungry, I'll simply fetch food from the kitchen myself."

Aunt Mei, eager to seize this opportunity to showcase her devotion, promptly replied, "It's no trouble at all, Lian-er. You have no reason to be polite."

The old lady interjected, "Let her do it if she wants to, Lian-er. You've already worked hard managing the household affairs. Let them handle these small tasks while you wait to eat."

Wet Nurse Mei: "Grandma speaks the truth. I don't have many skills, but with our current situation at home, I can't assist with major affairs. However, I can manage some minor tasks."

Grandma felt relieved and, unusually, praised Wet Nurse Mei.

Among her son's concubines, she had disliked Wet Nurse Mei the most in the beginning. How could a dancing girl sent from the palace to serve be of good character? But now, it seemed that her time in the palace hadn't been wasted; she knew how to read the situation and remained level-headed.

If she proved unworthy, Grandma couldn't afford to keep idle mouths to feed anyway. She might as well sell Wet Nurse Mei off. But what could Wet Nurse Mei do about it?

Wet Nurse Mei was aware of this fact. After Yu Lian finished her meal, she efficiently cleared the table and followed Yu Lian to fetch the written documents and writing supplies to meet her father-in-law.

Hua Zhan was weeding and tilling the soil in the courtyard, drenched in sweat with every swing of his hoe. The twins, unnoticed, had quietly put down their small hoes and were catching insects in the freshly turned earth behind their father.

Yu Lian called out, "Father."

Upon hearing their sister-in-law's voice, the twins immediately sprang into action like coiled springs, snatching up their hoes with surprising speed and resuming their work on the land.

Yu Lian didn't always scold the boys; occasionally, she offered incentives. This time, she chose not to expose them and smiled as they diligently weeded. "Father, please take a break. Later, you'll accompany me to Second Uncle's house to discuss something. Although he gave a brief overview of the villagers' characters yesterday, I still need more detailed information. Last night, I drafted plans for hiring workers, and today, I'll visit Second Uncle to inquire further. We also need to select a foreman to oversee the construction of the house."

"Second Uncle is highly respected and knowledgeable about the village. He's likely to see through any dishonest individuals trying to take advantage," Yu Lian continued.

Hua Zhan was aware that her daughter-in-law came from a wealthy family and wasn't accustomed to freely mingling like the villagers. Despite her capable and efficient appearance, she was also someone with a sense of entitlement. That's why she sought out her husband, the father, to accompany her on this visit.

She readily agreed.

The twins were eavesdropping the whole time. Upon hearing their elder sister mention they would be visiting Uncle Hua's house, they immediately dropped their small hoes, wiped the sweat off their faces, and unintentionally smudged their hands, which were already covered in mud from weeding and catching insects. Unaware of their dirty faces, they clapped excitedly, "I want to go too! I want to play with Bean's brother!"

Yu Lian approached them, causing the boys to jump in surprise. They lifted their heads to watch their sister cautiously. However, Yu Lian tenderly took out a handkerchief and wiped the mud off their faces one by one.

The twins stood there, stunned for a while before blushing and protesting, "We're not dirty."

To avoid arriving at lunchtime and causing inconvenience, Yu Lian and Hua Zhan decided to visit after their afternoon meal. With nothing else to do, Yu Lian fetched a stool and sat under the eaves, watching the three children feeding the pigs and chickens. It was amusing to see them fumble, being pecked by chickens or pushed around by little pigs, yet persevering through their frustration, all for the sake of raising them to sell for silver.

The twins were still crouching by the chicken coop, bravely warning the chicks, "When you grow up, we'll eat you!"

The chicks chirped back in response.

Hua Yan, lost in thought, secretly glanced at his sister and sorrowfully told his twin, "We'll end up being slaughtered too when we grow up. We'll have to carry hoes and farm, just like Father."

Hua Xing sighed, "What can we do? I don't want to grow up."

The two brothers propped their chins in their hands, distorting their faces, and sighed simultaneously, "If only Elder Brother were here."

Feeling that it was past mealtime, Hua Zhan washed his face and called for his daughter-in-law to seek advice from Uncle Two's house. The twins tiptoed behind their father and sister-in-law, and the adults pretended not to notice. Little Guo'er peered secretly from the door, and Yu Lian happened to see her, so she waved, causing the little one's eyes to light up as she happily rushed out.

Now they formed a small procession, similar to a mother hen leading her chicks.

Upon arriving at Uncle Two's house, the three children went to play with their six or seven cousins, while Yu Lian and her father-in-law inquired in the main room.

Yu Lian was meticulous and thorough in her work; even when it came to hiring people, she noted down each person's name and age. She then added remarks about their character, experience, and physical condition.

After completing the registration, she would carefully select candidates suitable for specific tasks. This list would not only be useful now but also when her farm was established and potentially when she opened a factory.

Auntie Two and Auntie Ma occasionally came to serve tea to the guests, perplexed by the effort. "Why go through all this trouble just to hire someone? What a waste of ink!"

In their eyes, ink and paper were precious commodities, reserved for scholars. Writing such detailed records seemed like an unnecessary waste.

"Aren't you just recording names? Just remember the names, and if you have any questions, you can always ask us. We're all neighbors, we've seen them grow up. Auntie Two can even tell you how old they were when they last wet the bed."

Yu Lian paused, shook her head with a smile, and replied, "I'm taking the time to record once, but it will save countless efforts later. I won't need to bother you unnecessarily, isn't that worth it?"

Granny Deux hadn't quite grasped the situation, but as she gazed into the girl's bright and lovely eyes, she sensed an air of composure and confidence. Recalling her father-in-law's remark about this young lady being no ordinary person, she decided to hold her tongue.

After all, this girl came from an esteemed family, and as a well-bred lady, she must have her reasons for her actions, even if they were beyond Granny Deux's comprehension.

By the time she sorted through all these matters in her mind, the sun had already set. Yu Lian now had a clear understanding of how to engage these people, even without referring to the list.

Granny Deux insisted on having Yu Lian, Hua Zhan, and the three children stay for dinner before leaving. Yu Lian politely declined with a smile. Just as the family was about to depart, Second Uncle hesitated for a moment before asking, "Yu Lian, you mentioned yesterday that you need an expert in construction to lead the building of your house. Have you found anyone suitable?"

Yu Lian replied, "Not yet, but if Second Uncle has any recommendations, please do share them with me."

Second Master responded, "In our Upper Village, there's a man who has been working for others constantly, specializing in constructing houses and buildings. He's been at it for over a decade, so his skills are reliable. Yesterday, he came to my place, asking me to speak on his behalf, expressing his interest in taking on your project. He wanted to know if you would be willing to hire him."

"He's a capable worker, but being out in the world for so long has made him a bit slippery. Second Master thought it best to be upfront with you. If you're willing to employ him again, that's fine. But if you have concerns about his integrity or suspect he might cut corners, it's perfectly alright not to hire him. I'll vouch for him and ensure he doesn't entertain any ill intentions."

Yu Lian paused slightly before inquiring if there were any others in the village with similar expertise.

Second Master pondered for a moment and replied, "Most folks here are farmers. Few engage in such specialized work. He's the only one." Yu Lian then said she would think about it and provide an answer the following day.

On their way back, Hua Zhan asked his daughter-in-law, "Do you wish to employ him?"

Yu Lian shook her head, then nodded. "Though his character might not be the best choice, we still need to consider him carefully."

"If there were other villagers suitable for the task, I would choose someone else. But since it's only him, it becomes a dilemma."

"Since we returned to our hometown, Second Master has been of great help to us. Thanks to his family, we were able to settle here. Now that he's making his first request, as a fellow clansman from Upper Village, I think we should grant it out of respect, if not for him, then for the community. Otherwise, our family might struggle to truly integrate into the village. Others might say that, having received the village's support and being returnees, it's unreasonable to prioritize outsiders over our own clanspeople."

"It could earn us a reputation for being ungrateful and distant."

Hua Zhan nodded. "Then let's use him. I'll keep an eye on the situation."

Upon returning home, they found guests waiting – two unfamiliar women, one young and one older, who appeared to be mother and daughter, accompanied by a somewhat wooden-looking man with a slightly dark complexion.

The young woman stood up as Yu Lian entered, initially wanting to take her hand in a gesture of familiarity. However, seeing Yu Lian's clean and elegant attire, she felt too awkward and said instead, "Lian-er, you've come at just the right time. I'm Sanshu's elder sister, this is my mother, and this is my elder brother from my mother's side."

After introducing them clearly, she continued, "My brother learned woodworking from a young age and later studied house construction from others. In recent years, he's gained experience traveling around and has even built houses for wealthy merchants in the county. He might be clumsy with words, but when it comes to constructing houses, no one in the vicinity can match his skills."

The man, embarrassed by his sister's praise, blushed slightly and tried to stop her, stammering, "Don't be so boastful, you shouldn't speak like that."

Throughout the entire encounter, not once did she dare lift her eyelids to sneak a glance at Yu Lian.

Yu Lian had often presided over job interviews in the past. Countless employees, from junior to senior, had been recruited under her scrutiny. She believed that, while she might not always be spot on, she could still read people fairly accurately. From this man's demeanor, she could tell he was an honest and diligent craftsman. The fact that he didn't dare to look around indicated his simplicity, lack of grand ambition, and contented nature. Although not particularly adaptable, he seemed genuine.

Secondly, when his sister praised his skills to the client, he shyly tried to stop her. This demonstrated his humility, suggesting that though he lacked self-confidence, he would be manageable and reliable. Thirdly, he had built houses for wealthy families before, which confirmed his technical proficiency – a quality that appealed to Yu Lian.

After just one brief meeting, Yu Lian had formed a solid impression and leaned towards hiring him.

Next came casual conversation.

Fifteen minutes later, Yu Lian personally saw the family off. The elderly lady smiled and asked, "Has Lian-er made up her mind?"

Yu Lian offered a faint smile. "I was in a rush and didn't have time to discuss with Grandmother about my visit to Second Uncle's place. While there, he mentioned that there's a fellow villager from our clan who also does house construction. He visited Second Uncle yesterday, asking for help to secure work with us."

The old lady, wise from years of experience, knew that if there were no issues with the candidate, Yu Lian would have made a decision on the spot. So why the hesitation now? They had even entertained the family warmly, including San Shu's wife, who, despite being married into the village, was originally from another village. If all else were equal, Yu Lian would naturally prefer to hire someone from within the village, without any indecision.

"Is there a problem?" the grandmother inquired.

Yu Lian chuckled. "Nothing escapes your keen eyes, Grandmother. Second Uncle said the man might be a bit slippery, and could potentially cut corners."

"No major issues, but plenty of minor ones. Naturally, it would be easier to find someone with both good character and exceptional skills. But Yu Lian is thinking that we're all neighbors, and Second Master himself made the request. If we were to decline, I wouldn't know how to face him in the future. I also fear it might damage our reputation."

The elder lady nodded and sighed. "You're right. It's difficult for you, Yu Lian. Back in the capital, even when Grandmother managed the household, we always had to consider the pride of this family or that. Let alone here in the countryside. In the city, we could close our doors, and others, out of respect, wouldn't dare to do anything. But here, as newcomers, we see our neighbors every day. We have to be mindful of interpersonal relationships. One misstep, and we might not be able to establish ourselves."

"Perhaps we could use the one from the village and ask your father to keep an eye on him."

As expected, mother and son shared the same thoughts. Yu Lian chuckled silently. "How can Father have the energy to monitor constantly? Besides, I just declared yesterday that I don't want dishonest workers. If we hire him now, wouldn't that show inconsistency and lack of trustworthiness?"

"But hiring someone from another village won't be well-received either. Villagers tend to protect their own, and they'll surely gossip about us."

The elder lady was also troubled. "So, what should we do?"

Yu Lian sipped her tea. "Then we'll hire both. Let them form a work team, supervise each other, and compete. Perhaps this will not only simplify things but also earn us some praise."

Chapter 48: Protecting the Younger Generation ◇

◎ Standing before his daughter-in-law, he shielded her protectively. ◎

The villagers arrived as promised the following day.

Yu Lian took out the list she had prepared the day before and read it aloud. The first batch called were for land-clearing tasks, followed by those for house construction.

The villagers who heard their names called felt a mix of joy and regret. They were glad to have been chosen at least for some work, ensuring their wages, but they also felt envious of those who had landed higher-paying jobs in house building. Unbeknownst to them, the remaining villagers were nervous, with some already convinced they wouldn't be selected, fearing they would lag behind their neighbors in terms of income. If they didn't make the cut, how could they not feel their annual feast losing its taste?

The disappointment would cast a shadow over their New Year's celebration.

After reading out the names for the land-clearing group, Yu Lian paused and instructed them to form a line. One by one, they stepped forward to press their thumbprints on the labor contract. Uncle Two, literate, took the document first, read it aloud, and assured the villagers that there were no issues with the agreement.

Uncle Two, respected for his wisdom and seniority in the village, was a trusted figure, and the villagers believed him without hesitation.

However, they couldn't help but express their curiosity.

"We've never had such formalities when working for folks in town or the county. No thumbprints, no signatures—what's the point of this?"

The questioner seemed unconvinced, thinking that Yu Lian, the young lady from the capital, was making a fuss over nothing. In their opinion, it would be more practical to spend this time farming with a hoe.

Second Uncle chuckled and didn't scold them. Instead, he said, "It's good to be meticulous, very good. This contract clearly states who hires whom, how much the wages are, and what hours you'll work each day, leaving no room for misunderstanding. It ensures that you won't be taken advantage of. Isn't that great?"

"Think about it, when you work for those landlords and merchants, don't they often prolong your working hours until day and night? Today you work two extra hours, tomorrow three, yet you still earn the same few copper coins. Isn't that a huge loss?"

"You can't even get such clear terms when working for government officials. Yu Lian does this mainly for your benefit. Even if she didn't write it down, would you dare to slack off?"

After Second Uncle finished speaking, the experienced laborers exclaimed,

"Forget about the government; they would never think of us. They only know how to exploit us. Last year during corvée labor, I almost died on the job and barely made it back. Afterward, I had to rest for half a month before I could work again, covered in injuries."

"Second Uncle, you're right. Before, when we worked for others, we did as the employer said, never daring to slack off or leave without permission. We were afraid they wouldn't pay us, and we feared losing our jobs. We dared not complain. If we quit, there were always others lining up to take our place."

"Yes, yes, indeed."

"Well then, signing this contract seems like a wise move. As expected of a young lady from the capital, she handles matters meticulously and fairly. It protects us from being wronged, so we'll work hard for her and make sure she gets her money's worth!"

Yu Lian nodded with a gentle smile, but inwardly, she sighed. Living in such a feudal era, the common folk led difficult lives, especially for rural villagers trying to earn a few coins. The labor market was oversaturated, allowing landlords, merchants, and wealthy gentry to dictate terms and exploit workers at will. The ordinary people had no means to resist, let alone dare to resist. They obediently followed orders, fearing non-payment of wages and losing their source of income.

For a long time, an exceedingly exploitative system of labor has been entrenched.

She let out a soft sigh, and after a brief moment, she pressed her hand down and said, "Countryfolk who have affixed their fingerprints may now return home. Be sure to come back to work early tomorrow morning at the beginning of the hour of Mao. At that time, kindly bring your tools along; there will be an additional allowance provided for this task."

Given the substantial land to be cultivated, the number of laborers required far exceeded those needed for construction. If they were to purchase farming tools like hoes on par with the workforce, the cost would escalate dramatically, manifesting as obvious extravagance. Moreover, once the land clearing was finished, there would be no need for such an abundance of hoes at home. Even if Yu Lian had plans for a farm, it wouldn't justify such unnecessary expenditure.

Let the villagers bring their own farming implements to clear and cultivate the land. These agricultural tools are sturdy and experience minimal wear and tear; thus, providing a modest subsidy for depreciation would suffice. The cost is virtually negligible, while it also safeguards the interests of the villagers—this indeed achieves a dual benefit.

Having worked as an HR professional for years, Yu Lian was accustomed to fairness and impartiality in managing people and tasks. She neither wanted to exploit herself nor her workers; instead, she believed in mutual benefit as the foundation for sustained success.

The villagers were simple folk and believed that bringing their own tools for tilling was a matter of course. Did they expect to dig the earth with bare hands? Surprised by Yu Lian's mention of additional compensation, they blushed and waved their hands repeatedly, insisting it wasn't necessary.

"It's our duty, how can we ask for extra pay?"

"These farming tools are used for work anyway, whether at home or in the fields. They won't break from a few days' use. How can we accept compensation from you for this?"

"Exactly, we're all neighbors. There's no need for such formality. We've already been paid for our labor, so we can't accept more money just for using a hoe."

Yu Lian replied, "The compensation is small, one copper coin per tool per day. If any damage occurs, that will be accounted for separately."

Having expressed her admiration for the simplicity and vulnerability of the common folk, she reminisced about the various allowances provided in her modern work life: housing subsidies, food allowances, heat allowances, transportation subsidies, and even afternoon tea allowances in some considerate companies. Compared to that, the benefits here seemed negligible.

Due to Yu Lian's insistence, the villagers didn't dare to argue further. Instead, they were momentarily moved, perceiving this young lady as honest and benevolent, a rare gem in the world who wouldn't let them suffer any loss, even paying for a mere hoe. Her kindness knew no bounds.

"Isn't she too good? Even the fairest officials aren't as considerate as she is. She thinks so much about us, I feel heartache just thinking about how she spends her copper coins."

"Why are you so narrow-minded? She comes from an influential Marquis' household and has seen the world in the capital. Her mindset is on a different level from our small-town folks. She doesn't begrudge giving us those coins openly, that's called grace, the grandeur of a noble!"

"Pah, what has her grace got to do with you? A copper coin a day may not seem much, but consider how many of us there are. Each extra day means more expenses. I say we should act with conscience, work diligently, and strive to finish the job sooner, so as not to waste her silver – it's almost too hot to handle, and we'd feel guilty accepting it!"

"Indeed, that's the way to think. Let's work hard and finish the land clearing promptly. We mustn't be ungrateful for her kindness."

"Exactly right. Go home, wash up, have an early meal, and get a good night's rest. Tomorrow, we'll gather our strength and work with renewed vigor!"

"Wait a moment, let me see who has been chosen for the house construction."

Those preparing to leave immediately paused to watch, curious to know who had been selected and what qualities they possessed that set them apart from the rest.

Yu Lian didn't delay either, immediately announcing the second batch of workers needed – those for constructing the house.

She called up two individuals. One was quite well-known among the villagers; he was a local carpenter who had been working on houses for years. His name was Hua Dameng, a sturdy man with broad shoulders and a strong build. In this line of work, physical strength was essential before other considerations were taken into account. Most landowners would first assess a worker's appearance and physique before anything else.

The other person was the elder brother of SanShu's wife from the neighboring village. Some villagers recognized him and called out, "Ma Dafen, why are you here? You're not from our village."

This name made the corner of Yu Lian's mouth twitch slightly. Yesterday, he had mentioned that his name was 'Dafen,' as in diligent, not 'Dufen' as in manure. However, being illiterate, villagers often associated his name with 'manure.' This nickname had stuck since childhood, and everyone believed his name to be Ma Dafen.

Though not a pleasant-sounding name, it was common enough. There were plenty with names like 'Niu Tou Ji Fen' (Ox Head Chicken Manure), so 'Ma Fen' was nothing extraordinary.

Ma Dafen scratched his head, giving an honest smile. "I wanted to give it a try."

He was confident in his skills and didn't believe he would be inferior to Hua Dameng. However, his honest nature prevented him from directly challenging the other by saying he was stronger or more capable. Why not hire him instead?

Hua Dameng's thick brows knitted together almost into a knot. He asked in an unfriendly tone, "What does this guy do? We're just building one house, and I've built annexes for landlords that are much larger than this courtyard. I can handle it alone, why do we need another person?"

Being a villager himself, Hua Dameng had the home-field advantage, and his personality was naturally more assertive. The moment he spoke, the atmosphere became tense.

Ironically, the villagers found his argument reasonable. Even if Yu Lian intended to build a grand house, wouldn't one foreman suffice? As Hua Dameng was one of their own, the villagers took his side, turning to look at Yu Lian, waiting to see how she would respond.

Sanshu's wife quietly approached her eldest sister-in-law and inquired, "Why did you bring your elder brother along? I was wondering why you would come back to your natal home for no reason. So it's because you wanted him to snatch some work. If Uncle Dameng finds out about this, he'll surely become our adversary in the future. Why would you do something like this?"

Hua Dameng, with his intimidating appearance and frequent travels outside the village, was rarely challenged by its inhabitants. Moreover, he had two younger brothers, Ermeng and Sanmeng, both of whom were burly and formidable. The entire family was not to be trifled with. Even though it was only his eldest sister-in-law who had offended someone, the consequences wouldn't discriminate; Sanshu would likely suffer greatly as well when the time came.

Knowing she was in the wrong, Dashu's wife felt somewhat embarrassed. However, moved by Yu Lian's mention of generous wages for the foreman and her offer to recommend anyone she knew, she contemplated introducing her elder brother to the position.

Though working outside does entail labor, as Yu Lian mentioned, the employers outside are not easy to deal with. They constantly make things difficult for you, and should your work fail to meet their expectations, they might deduct your wages or even demand revisions, wearing you down in the process. Yet, at the end of the day, you still earn the same amount. Moreover, when working outside, one must not only endure the moods of the employers and their managers but also compete with others and know how to ingratiate oneself with them.

In the county and towns, there were job agencies run by brokers. Someone as dull and unskilled in conversation as her brother was far from favored by these agents. Sometimes, he would wait for days on end just to secure a job. Concerned about her elder brother's tireless efforts, she had secretly run back to her parents' home to send word.

Now that my sister-in-law has put it this way, she tugged at her sleeve and whispered, "Just act like you don't know. Pretend he came on his own. Even if Brother Dameng seeks revenge later, I'll take responsibility and won't involve you or Sanshu."

"My sister-in-law is also about to give birth. I thought, with my brother always out and about, he missed the birth of their first daughter. This time, I want him to be there to witness the birth of their child."

Sanshu's wife wasn't truly sharp-tongued. Seeing her elder sister-in-law's plea, she didn't press the issue further but grumbled, "Next time you have such an idea, Sister, please let us know beforehand. It doesn't make sense to help outsiders more than our own family. Otherwise, the villagers will point fingers at us."

Hua Dameng was an impulsive man. Without waiting for Yu Lian's explanation, he raised his voice and said, "Are you saying you don't trust me, so you brought in this outsider to confront me?"

He was a large, burly man with a fierce expression and a loud voice. His accusation towards Yu Lian made the villagers who had just benefited from her kindness unhappy. They stepped forward and said, "What are you doing, Dameng? How are you talking to her? Why are you being so aggressive? Speak calmly and rationally."

Indeed, you only dare to be fierce at home. Do you have the audacity to treat those landowner masters with such an attitude when you're working outside?"

Hua Zhan had been standing quietly on the side, allowing her daughter-in-law to take charge. At this moment, she stepped forward and stood protectively in front of her.

Chapter 49 - Commencement

◎ It's none of your business to interfere with what my daughter-in-law is doing. ◇

Hua Dameng wouldn't dare to act recklessly if he truly wanted the job. Besides, he was surprised that so many villagers were already defending this newcomer family. He thought that his identity as a fellow villager and clan member of Shangyixiang Village would make the villagers side with him, forcing Yu Lian to chase away that outsider who dared to snatch the job. Then, he could take charge of how the house was built, and even justify profiting from it.

This was an unspoken rule in their trade. No matter whose house they worked on, whether it was a wealthy family or the government, once they secured the job, they held the reins. They could manipulate costs for materials, labor wages, and even prolong the construction time for personal gain.

He understood that regardless of whether the outsider was trying to snatch the job or share it, with him around, it would be difficult to manipulate things or deceive those who didn't know better. This person was simply obstructing him!

Frowning deeply, Hua Dameng said solemnly, "I don't want trouble. It's just building a house, and I alone am enough. Why do we need another person? I'm doing this for your family's sake. Hiring one more worker means extra expenses, which is a waste of money. Moreover, we're from the same village and clan. By seniority, you should call me Uncle. Would Uncle Dameng cheat you?"

"Go ask around. Isn't it well-known that Hua Dameng's craftsmanship in building houses is famous within a ten-mile radius? Even in the town and county, I have a reputation. I'm not someone who learns a few carpentry tricks to swindle money. He says he can build a house? Nonsense!"

Ma Dafen, despite his honesty, knew that the man was indirectly insulting him, barely holding back from pointing at his nose and saying, You have no skills, and you're here only to scam money!

His face flushed red. "Y-You're slandering me! Although I haven't been in this trade as long as you, I've learned diligently and worked earnestly. No employer has ever complained about my work. I earn my wages with a clear conscience, deserving of the money given by my employers, and I live up to my conscience. I'm not here to swindle money!"

Hua Dameng sneered. "You? I've heard a thing or two. You're always running around the town and county, begging everyone, but few people actually hire you. What does that say? It means you don't have anything in your hands, no real skills. Otherwise, why wouldn't others use you?"

Ma Dafen was so furious that his neck turned red. However, he couldn't find any words to refute. It was true that he took on fewer jobs than others, but that had nothing to do with his craftsmanship. Unless one was at the pinnacle of their profession, most workers like him relied on recommendations from their former employers or brokers for work. How many jobs could acquaintances provide throughout the year? Most still needed brokers to make connections. Whenever one relied on such referrals, interpersonal relationships mattered. One either needed to be good at networking and win the broker's favor or offer generous bribes. The broker would naturally prioritize giving jobs to those who did.

There were many intricacies involved.

Ma Dafen lacked both qualities. He wasn't skilled in socializing or pleasing others; his straightforwardness didn't endear him to people. Moreover, he didn't have enough money to bribe the brokers. How could he secure good jobs?

Occasionally, he would get lucky and land one or two projects, but that was only because the clients were notorious for being difficult to work with. Others didn't want the trouble, leaving the job for him.

Seeing Ma Dafen unable to respond, the villagers thought that Hua Dameng had exposed him as a fraud trying to swindle money. They then advised Yu Lian:

"Everyone says the foreman pays well. Let's not waste this money. Save it and use it to buy some carved furniture, wouldn't that be better? He claims to know woodworking, so if you really want to hire him, let him handle the carpentry. Won't you need tables and chairs once the house is built? It'd be great to have a few new beds too. You come from an esteemed family; don't plays always mention how young misses have screens in their rooms? Save your money and ask him to make one for you. Wouldn't that be nice?"

"Yes, yes, Lian, listen to our advice. Don't waste money on someone useless."

"Don't judge Dameng by his fierce appearance. He's reliable when it comes to work. With us around, he won't dare to play tricks. He'll surely help build your house honestly. I heard that when the Chen landlord in town built his new courtyard last time, he hired Dameng. I saw it from afar - that courtyard was huge, so impressive. You couldn't see what was inside from outside, and there were even two stone lions at the entrance. It was very grand."

"We're all villagers, and Dameng wouldn't dare to cheat you. Trust him with the job."

Hua Dameng's sharp response left the outsider speechless, and with so many villagers now on his side, he felt a surge of pride. He agreed, "Of course, I, Hua Dameng, carry the name of Hua. How could I deceive my fellow villagers? Entrust the house construction to me, and I promise you a magnificent abode that will be worth every penny."

Seeing her own brother unfairly slandered and unable to retaliate, while the villagers were swayed by Hua Dameng's words, believing he was a fraud, the wife of Dashu became both furious and anxious. Ignoring Sanshu's attempts to hold her back, she rushed forward.

"Auntie Dameng, my brother has always been honest and has never done anything wicked. He has been in this trade for over a decade, diligently fulfilling every task given to him without any shortcuts. He is not here to swindle money. How can you defame him like this?"

She understood that whether they accepted the job today or not was secondary; her brother's reputation was at stake. Although they weren't from the same village, who didn't have relatives in neighboring villages? If this misunderstanding wasn't cleared up, people might spread rumors about Ma Dafen from Ma Village being incompetent and deceitful. This would not only affect his ability to find work but also tarnish her family's name, causing real harm.

Unfortunately, her brother was an honest man with a straightforward mind, not skilled in articulating his thoughts. When cornered, he found it difficult to defend himself, which made others assume he was guilty and too ashamed to respond.

Worried about her brother's reputation and livelihood, as well as the potential backlash from her family if she mishandled the situation, she now deeply regretted bringing her brother to solicit work. She knew very well that Hua Dameng was not someone to trifle with, so why had she dared?

Upon seeing Dashu's wife step forward, Hua Dameng's expression darkened even more. He raised his eyebrows and said, "So it's your family member, huh? No wonder. Who in a ten-mile radius doesn't know that I, Hua Dameng, am the one for this job? Yet, you brought him here to snatch work from our village. Dashu's wife, you're married into our village, which makes you one of us. How could you betray your own people to help your family?"

Dashu's wife, usually quick-witted, found herself at a loss for words. The villagers, influenced by Hua Dameng's words, now looked at her with suspicion. Caught between her loyalty to her family and her village, she felt trapped.

"What's wrong with you, Dashu's wife? Why would you do such a thing? Regardless of his shortcomings, Dameng is still your elder and a villager. How could you treat him like this?"

"I wondered why Ma Dafen seemed so familiar. He's been to our village a few times before to visit his sister. So he turns out to be Dashu's brother-in-law."

The villagers' chatter left Dashu's wife speechless, feeling both embarrassed and angered. The resentment she initially felt for her brother being wrongly accused had faded away, and her husband, Hua Dashu, looked at her with confusion.

Sanshu's wife quickly stepped in to mediate. "My eldest sister-in-law didn't know that Uncle Dameng was also going to work. Didn't he mention taking on a job in the county town recently? It's just a coincidence that they crossed paths. Now that Uncle Dameng is here, how could we possibly take over his job?"

She gently took her sister-in-law's hand. "Isn't that right, Sister-in-law? Please speak up."

Although Dashu's wife was unwilling, she felt oppressed. Her dear brother was unjustly labeled a fraud and had no chance to clarify, yet they were already urging him to step aside for Hua Dameng. Was this fair?

But under the circumstances and with her husband staring at her, she hesitantly nodded...

At that moment, Yu Lian spoke up. "Neighbors, brothers, sisters, uncles, and aunts, both Uncle Dameng and Uncle Dafen were invited by me. Our family is large, and before long, my two younger brothers will grow up and marry. We need a bigger house to avoid future expansions. As we're not in a rush to move in, I thought it would be efficient to have two foremen complete the project together, with Uncle Dameng and Uncle Dafen each leading a team to handle half the work."

The twin boys, hiding behind their father and aunt, were playing with mud. Hearing this, they puffed up in embarrassment. They were still kids, too young to think about marrying! Their aunt was being too embarrassing!

Hua Dameng stepped forward, his face turning menacing. "Can you build a house any bigger than the one owned by Landlord Chen in the town? I built his house all by myself. Why do you need two people?"

His bold move caused Hua Zhan's brow to furrow as he sternly replied, "My daughter-in-law's affairs are none of your concern."

There was no need to explain further; it was up to you whether you wanted to do it or not!

Hua Zhan, having held a high position and dominated politics for many years, had even almost conspired with his son to seize the throne. When his imposing manner rose, even if Hua Dameng was a village dragon, he would still have to coil up! Hua Dameng was pushed back several steps, his face involuntarily breaking into a more respectful smile than he would show to wealthy merchants as he explained, "No, no, that's not what I meant..."

Only after saying this did he realize that this person was no longer a noble but had fallen to the countryside, even lower than a local landlord or merchant. Why should he be afraid of him?

He quickly added, "If you say you've hired someone else, I, Hua Dameng, won't be left without work. Why should I come to your house to be treated poorly?!"

Although Yu Lian considered how her actions would affect her future in the village and her uncle's reputation, and was careful to attend to all aspects, she was not a pushover. Perhaps the steel in her spine was even stronger than her father-in-law's. At this moment, she ignored Hua Dameng.

She said, "Uncle Dameng and Brother Dafen will each lead a team. Divide the work between you. Whoever finishes within half a month and does a good job will receive an additional reward of no less than six taels of silver. Half will go to the foreman, and the other half will be divided among the rest of the team. That's settled."

"Additionally... Brother Dafen has indeed been in this line of work for over ten years. I would naturally investigate before hiring anyone. Rest assured."

Dashu's wife and Ma Dafen's sister looked at her gratefully. Yu Lian's explanation as the employer was worth more than a hundred of theirs.

With her reputation preserved and the job secured, Dashu's wife was immensely grateful to Yu Lian. She planned to help out at Yu Lian's house whenever she had free time, doing whatever she could. Although Yu Lian's family was large, the elders were old and the young ones too young to do much.

Hua Dameng, initially too embarrassed to stay and angry enough to leave, paused when he heard this. His feet were glued to the ground, and he wouldn't budge!

First, Yu Lian had mentioned that apart from the wages, there would be an additional reward for their efforts. Six taels of silver, even if divided in half, would still amount to three taels – no more than what he could earn through illicit means.

Secondly, he realized that if he were to leave now, wouldn't he be letting that Ma fellow from another village have an easy win? It would make it seem as though he, Hua Dameng, was afraid!

He intended to show this young upstart that when it came to constructing houses, he was leagues ahead!

So, with a stern expression, he stood his ground and challenged, "Who wants to be on my team, Hua Dameng's team? Step forward, and I promise you efficient work and excellent results. That silver is ours for the taking!"

His words carried weight, given his experience and his status as a fellow villager. People here trusted him more than the unknown outsider.

Promptly, quite a few villagers moved to stand behind him.

The twins grumbled, "What's the rush? Big Sister hasn't even chosen her team yet, and you're already eager to join? Are you fools or what?"

Their comment silenced the crowd, only to be followed by a burst of laughter.

"Ha ha ha! The kids are right, what's the rush? Look at you all, so eager to choose your foreman before being selected. Do you think it's your decision?"

Those who had already aligned themselves with Hua Dameng blushed in embarrassment, urging Yu Lian to make her choice quickly.

"An early death leads to a swift rebirth. If I'm not chosen, I might as well hang myself with a rope back home." Knowing the villager was joking, others chuckled, "If you're going to die, do it quickly. Don't drag Yu Lian into it. With your cowardice, that's all we can expect."

Yu Lian wasted no time and announced the pre-written list, "Hua Dashu, Hua Ershu, Hua Shitou, Hua...,"

She named about twenty individuals before pausing, "That's all for now. You may choose among yourselves first. If there are any left, the foremen will decide."

The selected ones were overjoyed and hastily started lining up, fearing they might lose their chance if they waited.

Within less than half a cup of tea's time, everyone had found their place.

Yu Lian observed and sighed inwardly; almost everyone had gone to Hua Dameng's side. Only a few remained on Ma Dafen's team, like Hua Dashu, who was reluctantly standing with his brother-in-law. His wife must have held him back, and thinking he couldn't let his family suffer alone, he also pulled his younger brother, Hua Ershu, along.

Hua Ershu: "..."

Then there was the third son of the second elder, who had a grudge against Hua Dameng's younger brother, Hua Ermeng. He didn't want to work under his brother, so he chose the outsider's team.

The other two also had past conflicts with the Hua Dameng family. Their family was naturally domineering and had offended many within and outside the village. While they couldn't confront the family physically, they still held resentment in their hearts. How could they possibly work alongside them?

Lastly, some simply looked down on Hua Dameng, like the lazy Hua Sanduo. He believed that though he was lazy and not an ideal person, at least he was honest about his flaws. Unlike Hua Dameng, who had a manly face but did things even women would despise!

"Hua Sanduo? How did you get chosen? Have you finished your farm work? With your lazy nature, how could you possibly be selected?"

Hua Sanduo held a blade of grass between his teeth, his chin lifted proudly. "I have my own unique qualities..."

Before he could finish, Yu Lian chuckled. "He knows many people from all walks of life and has connections to buy bricks and tiles. That's why I hired him as my chief procurement manager."

"Mercy girl... Him? He's idle all day. Be careful, your money might just be swindled away by this good-for-nothing."

Hua Sanduo raised an eyebrow. "Who are you calling a good-for-nothing? Yes, I'm lazy, but that's because I don't want to do farm work. I prefer doing business, something that earns money quickly. Is that wrong? My family is poor, I have no capital, and my physique isn't suited for manual labor. As a procurer, helping others buy quality goods is perfect for me. People trust me, so why are you spouting nonsense?"

Seeing even someone as lazy as Hua Sanduo was chosen, those who were not selected felt a bit upset.

The shy ones didn't dare to ask, while the bold ones ventured a question.

"I may not be the hardest worker in the village, but I do work diligently."

"So do I, yet I wasn't chosen either..."

"It's fine if I wasn't picked for building houses, but not even for land clearance? What's the problem here?"

Yu Lian reassured them, "I mentioned earlier that we need this many people now. If you're not selected this time, you'll have priority for future jobs."

She paused, "Of course, this doesn't apply to those who slack off or try to cheat."

"Are you showing favoritism towards the Hua Dashu family? Two of his three brothers were chosen, and his eldest brother became the foreman. Also, all three sons from Uncle Two's family were selected. You chose them just because you're close, right?"

Hua Sanshu whispered to his wife, sounding rather aggrieved, "What about me? I've helped Uncle Log pull the carriage several times. If anyone should be familiar with it, it should be me. Why wasn't I chosen?"

His wife discreetly replied, "Don't say anything now. Ask Lian later, maybe there are other plans."

Her husband was not as strong as his older brothers, and he wasn't suited for such laborious work anyway, so it was understandable that he wasn't chosen.

Yu Lian had lost patience for explanations and jokingly said, "Then you should try to win me over. Once we become familiar, maybe I'll choose you next time."

Although it was a jest, it also conveyed a firm message: I'm the boss, and I can choose whoever I want. Do you think you can pressure me?

People were like that; sometimes, you needed to show strength rather than always being lenient. This approach left them speechless, and they would strive harder to be selected in the future.

Uncle Two watched silently from the back, not interrupting. After observing, he sighed inwardly, confirming his initial impression. The young bride from the Log family was indeed extraordinary. She knew when to be gentle and when to be firm, never at a disadvantage, and even gained the villagers' admiration.

When it came to Hua Dameng's competition for the foreman position, she didn't explicitly express her disdain but instead found another person to compete against him. Would Hua Dameng dare to slack off or cut corners now?

Certainly, he would strive to work hard and efficiently to please her.

Though it seemed like an extra six taels of silver were spent, the outcome of two people competing would be much better than one person handling everything alone. They would undoubtedly race each other to not only do a good job but also finish quickly. The money saved might even surpass the initial six taels.

"Such a remarkable young woman."

Second Grandma: "What did you say?"

Second Great-Uncle: "Nothing much, just praising someone."

With the hiring issue settled, work began the following day.

The villagers were mostly honest and accustomed to working; idleness felt unusual to them. Those who were given tasks arrived early the next morning, ready with their tools.

Some started clearing land, while others began construction. For a time, the area bustled with industrious activity.

Yu Lian had chosen a location upstream from the river, backed by a mountain. The people of Shangyi Village called it Bai Diao Mountain. It wasn't very tall, and its rounded, gentle slope was covered in lush forests. The verdant scenery was truly delightful.

Villagers would occasionally venture into the mountains to dig for bamboo shoots, gather mushrooms and wild vegetables, or chop down trees for furniture when needed.

The vast expanse of land below was designated for farming.

When it came to clearing land, the villagers were more experienced than Yu Lian. All she had to do was mark out the boundaries in the four cardinal directions, and they would take care of the rest. They knew far more about it than she did.

Yu Lian's main focus was on the construction of the house.

She had already drawn up the house plans and discussed them with her family. The old lady and Hua Zhan both approved, while Mrs. Chen, not understanding such matters, simply trusted their judgment.

In rural standards, Yu Lian's house seemed rather large, but the old lady and Hua Zhan had spent most of their lives in the capital's marquis residence, so they were accustomed to spacious dwellings and didn't find it unusual.

The two foremen took one look at the plans.

Hua Dameng furrowed his brows. "This is even bigger than the landlord Chen's house in town... Did you draw it incorrectly?"

Ma Dafen nodded in agreement. Indeed, it was huge, with four courtyard designs alone, rivaling, if not surpassing, the grandest homes of wealthy merchants in the county.

"And what is this?"

Yu Lian looked over and said, "This is the bathing room."

"Why are there two? Separated by gender?"

Yu Lian nodded.

She had planned to include a bathing room from the start. Nowadays, people bathed in tubs within their own quarters, which could accidentally fill the room with steam, causing inconvenience. A dedicated bathing room would be much more practical, and water could be directly channeled from the river, eliminating the need for manual water fetching.

The water drainage system was not complicated. It involved using bamboo as pipes and creating a suction mechanism with bamboo tubes at both ends. Even without a background in engineering, Yu Lian was capable of designing it.

However, the toilet system was slightly more intricate and required higher-quality materials. As they were hiding in the countryside to avoid trouble, Yu Lian didn't want to draw attention by incorporating too many sophisticated features. Otherwise, she would have loved to design a flushing toilet; visiting the privy was quite an ordeal.

Nonetheless, this alone was enough to astonish the two foremen.

"What's this?"

In the past few days, I've been in a genuine rural village where there's no internet connection and the mobile signal is weak... This village is truly remote, surrounded by mountains for miles around. Only now do I truly understand what TV shows and books mean when they say that it's difficult to escape from a small mountain village on your own. You simply can't leave, as the nearest civilization is at least tens of kilometers away, accessible only through winding mountain roads. We have to rely on cars to come and go.

But the scenery and air quality are fantastic! The uncles, aunts, grandpas, and grandmas in the mountains are incredibly kind and hospitable. They serve simple meals, perhaps because there's not much flavor, and no shops to buy snacks or drinks, so there's always a feeling of not being full every day, haha.

There's another observation I'd like to share: the mountains are swarming with mosquitoes! The insect population is abundant, and it has surprisingly cured my obsession with cleanliness. On the first day, I found it extremely challenging. My skin was dotted with itchy bites, and when Auntie offered me a towel for a bath, she claimed it was new. However, when I took it to the bathroom, I discovered insects crawling on it! In the end, I resorted to using disposable face wipes for my body. While lying in bed, besides the mosquitoes, I occasionally spotted smaller creatures. On that first night, exhaustion was overwhelming, but I dared not fall asleep, fearing bugs or snakes might bite me! After two hours of struggle, I finally gave in, deciding to brave it. I laid flat and thought, "Well, if they bite, they bite. Let them win!" And then I drifted off into a deep, peaceful sleep. Haha.

Here, cleanliness and sophistication mean nothing. Each morning, I'm greeted by a lush green landscape outside the window. The house I'm staying in sits at the foot of the mountain, with trees towering just beyond. I love gazing at those trees, and there's a stream of mountain water flowing down. At night, the chirping of cicadas and unknown insects fills the air, while early in the morning, before daylight, the sounds of chickens and birds create a symphony. After a few days, I feel refreshed and content.

Life in this small mountain village is tranquil, and it has inadvertently adjusted my sleep schedule. Haha.

I absolutely adore eating mushrooms freshly picked by the villagers, they're delicious when stir-fried with meat (drooling).

(A side note: It's important not to venture alone into remote mountain villages for safety reasons.)

Chapter 50: Joyful Laughter

◎Women Are No Less Than Men◎

Putting aside the fact that the house design had broadened the horizons of both foremen, Hua Dameng and Ma Dafen, who were constantly seeking answers from Yu Lian, the difference in their progress was evident from the start.

Most of the villagers chose to work for Hua Dameng. As a result, he retained the strong and efficient men in his team, leaving the rest for Ma Dafen. This initial imbalance caused Ma Dafen's team to fall behind.

The villagers on Ma Dafen's team were deeply concerned for him.

Everyone has a competitive spirit, especially when Yu Lian had offered silver as a reward. Who wouldn't want an extra share of it?

Ma Dafen was an honest man, not skilled in social interactions or management. He simply worked tirelessly, never criticizing his team if they couldn't finish their tasks. Instead, he would frown and do it himself, often being the last one to leave. On one occasion, he even slept on-site without returning home.

His sister, Dashu, who was married, also worried about her brother. Although the neighboring village wasn't too far away, it still required a considerable journey. Eventually, she prepared a shed at her own home as a temporary guest room for him. She would frequently come to assist him, lending a hand with the work.

When Yu Lian saw this, she offered to pay her for her labor, but Dashu declined, "How can I take money for helping my own brother? Besides, you've already done us a great favor by keeping him here. My brother is straightforward and slow-witted, often struggling to understand. Please bear with him, Lian."

Yu Lian didn't insist. Observing how efficiently Dashu worked, not inferior to the male workers, she casually asked if she would be interested in working full-time.

Dashu's wife had mud on her hands, but she hesitated to wipe them on her clothes before wiping her face. "How can I? I'm not one of their men; they're stronger and work faster. You'd be hiring me at a loss."

Village women were skilled in both domestic and agricultural chores, but when it came to construction, the tasks were typically left to men. Most homeowners assumed it was not cost-effective to hire women for such labor, as men could accomplish more with their greater strength and stamina. Women, being physically weaker, were generally not preferred, as it seemed like a waste of money.

Not a single woman had signed up to help build the houses this time around. They all assumed Yu Lian wouldn't hire them, even for tasks like clearing land.

Women shared the same mindset as Dashu's wife – how could they, with their lesser strength, be hired?

Yu Lian chuckled and said, "Sister Dashu, although you're a woman, you're meticulous and adaptable. Big Fan only needed to explain once, and you grasped it. Moreover, you can apply what you've learned creatively. Your work on connecting the pipes was excellent."

The pipes were made from bamboo cut from the mountains, connected piece by piece. As they needed to channel river water to the bathing area, they had to be buried about a foot underground. Once the foundation was laid, they would be placed in pre-dug trenches as the construction progressed. This task required delicacy and patience, rather than brute force. Dashu's wife had helped with this part.

Praised by Yu Lian, Dashu's wife felt a mix of joy and embarrassment. However, Yu Lian's proposal intrigued her.

Yu Lian offered twenty copper coins per day for construction workers. Given the size and complexity of her house, it would take at least a month or more to complete the basic structure. If she continued working, she could earn six hundred coins in a month, almost a tael of silver in a month and a half!

She had never earned so much from daily farm work. In good harvest years, after paying taxes, any surplus grain was sold at the store to provide for the family. But during bumper harvests, grain prices plummeted, and a full cart might not fetch much. The family lived frugally, saving every coin for their children's future marriages.

If she could secure this job, she could afford new clothes for her children by the end of the year and even buy two kilograms of fatty meat – a significant blessing.

She pondered for a moment and said, "The men earn twenty copper coins per day, so I'll take less. Fifteen, no, ten coins will do."

From a distance, someone called out to Yu Lian. As she was about to go see who it was, she heard these words and turned back with a smile. "Women are no less capable than men. You're nimble and meticulous, which is your advantage. Just focus on doing a good job."

With that, she continued on her way.

Dashu's wife stood behind, staring blankly. The young lady had a slender and graceful figure; her posture was straight as she walked, exuding an air of nobility. The sun was somewhat blinding, so she raised her hand to shield her forehead. When she looked again, the girl had already turned a corner and was out of sight.

Despite this, Dashu's wife still felt that this girl was different... not that she didn't seem feminine. She was incredibly beautiful, but her demeanor and aura exuded a composed confidence. Even after losing her young husband and descending from a prominent family in the capital to live with her in-laws in the countryside, she maintained her pride and self-confidence. This girl seemed more like a noble gentleman at heart.

She stood there, observing and thinking. Finally, she lifted her head, puffed out her chest, and tried to mimic the girl's proud smile. Then she shook her head and laughed, realizing it was impossible to replicate.

Nonetheless, Dashu's wife was delighted to have received Yu Lian's approval and unexpectedly landed this job. She spent the whole day working cheerfully. Her husband thought she had lost her mind, putting in such effort for free. Even if she was grateful to Yu Lian for helping her brother, it didn't explain her dedication.

As evening approached and the sun was about to set, he called his wife over. He had just carried several large logs with others, which would be used as load-bearing pillars. They were thick and heavy, leaving him drenched in sweat and gasping for breath.

"Why haven't you returned home? If dinner isn't prepared, what will my children and I eat?"

Dashu's wife lifted her chin. "My apologies, but starting today, I am also a working person."

Dashu's face was adorned with a myriad of question marks. "Huh?"

His wife beamed with delight and said, "Lianniang mentioned that I am meticulous in my work and perform tasks just as well as any man. Hence, she has decided to retain me here for the job. Since we both earn our wages here, from now on, you can ask our mother to prepare dinner along with Chun'er."

Having finished boasting about her encounter with her husband over here, upon returning home, she was met with questioning from her mother-in-law for not having prepared dinner. Yu Lian had a ready explanation too; she extensively recounted how flatteringly Mrs. Yu spoke of her, and even added a few embellishments to further praise herself.

No one cared how she praised herself, but the crucial point was that in a month and a half, she would also be a woman with a silver or two in her hand. Upon hearing this, her mother-in-law's face immediately lit up. She took her two grandchildren by the hand and said, "Go ahead with your business, there's no need to come home for dinner. I'll take the kids next door to your second and third brothers' homes to make do. When we're done, we'll bring food back for the both of you, so there's no need to cook."

Dashu's mother gave birth to three sons and three daughters, all of whom have married out. The sons, though not fully separated, each have their own households, with their dwellings constructed adjacent to one another, expanded as they grew up. They live together, each family in its own courtyard. Ordinarily, the elderly couple would dine with the eldest son's family, while the second and third sons take care of their own meals. Half of their earnings are contributed to their mother, and at the end of the year, the wealth is evenly distributed among them.

Dashu Mother, neglecting her dinner, carried her bowl to her second and third sons' courtyards, calling out to them that their eldest sister-in-law would now be working for the Hu family and wouldn't be returning to prepare dinner. The elderly couple, with their two grandsons, found it troublesome to cook, so they inquired if the brothers could share meals with them for a while.

"I'll bring my own provisions; it'll just require a bit more firewood. You help with the cooking, and I won't be taking advantage of you."

Sanshu's wife had recently gone back to her parents' home and had yet to return. Sanshu's wife quickly emerged, as her mother-in-law's request was not an arduous one. Country folk were accustomed to large pots, so adding another portion was not difficult, but...

"How did Eldest Sister-in-law find work? Did Lian'er mention it?"

She glanced back at her husband, "Sanshu wasn't even chosen, yet he's still a man, no matter his health. How can he not measure up to Eldest Sister-in-law?"

Initially, she had intended to ask Yu Lian about it, but Yu Lian was far too busy and hardly had any free time. She was afraid that someone might overhear her and misunderstand her intentions, so she didn't have the courage to approach her specifically.

But now, even her sister-in-law could contribute; why couldn't her own husband? This thought had been bothering her for days. Both Second Brother and Third Brother were working and bringing in income, while her family remained idle.

Dashu's wife had recently felt a sense of guilt for almost implicating her siblings and their spouses due to her brother's situation. Therefore, she decided to be open and honest, saying, "I helped out there for a few days, and when Lian saw how well I did, she asked me to join the workforce."

The next day, Yu Lian was surprised to discover...

Third Sister-in-law had also arrived, dressed in rough homespun linen, with her pants rolled up, diligently following her eldest sister-in-law and working hard, exerting more effort than anyone else.

Yu Lian: "…"

However, like her husband, Third Sister-in-law was short and slender, better suited for agricultural work than construction. The labor on the site proved challenging for her, and she nearly exhausted herself.

Yu Lian called her into her home to inquire about the situation.

Third Sister-in-law, being bolder than her elder sister-in-law, admitted that seeing her sister-in-law get work, she wanted to give it a try as well.

"Third Tree wasn't chosen, and now there's no farm work for him. He's just idling at home, chasing ants all day. So, I thought I'd come and see if I could help."

Not asking directly why Sanshu wasn't chosen, perhaps she already understood that his slender frame made it reasonable for him to be overlooked.

Yu Lian smiled and replied, "There's no rush. He'll have his hands full in a few days."

Sanshu's wife's eyes lit up. "What will he be busy with? You can use him however you like. Although he talks a lot, he's diligent when it comes to work. Whatever you say, he'll follow obediently and do it well."

Yu Lian explained, "Hua Sanduo is out discussing business. Once the deal is settled, he'll need people to bring back the purchases. Let Sanshu accompany him. He can drive the carriage and assist with transporting goods. They can work together as a team."

She then added a gentle reminder, "I kept your sister-in-law because she's really competent at what she does. She's suitable for this task. Don't strain yourself."

Sanshu's wife felt a bit embarrassed. "Alright, I won't cause any trouble. I'll go home and tell Sanshu to come to your place tomorrow to drive the carriage and help with the cargo."