Chapter 681: Concealing
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
Qiao Kou snorted and glared at Qi.
She did not dare to disobey Auntie Ling, but she felt really unconvinced. She did not think that Auntie Ling needed to respect the Shao Family so much. They could do whatever they wanted to do with them.
Why bother saying such empty words?
Soon, Concubine Du and Ms. Fang came back. Qi went away to get some tea.
Since the guests asked for tea, he was going to serve it to them, for his Fifth Sister-in-law's sake.
But he recalled how his Fifth Sister-in-law spoke highly of golden sprouts and lavender, which were rare, even for rich people.
He thought for a while and grabbed some really old tea and poured three cups for the guests.
In the hall, Ms. Fang kept the guests company, while in the kitchen, Yang San and Zhang Sier also tried to get something out of Yang Xiaoni regarding thePlease visit fr𝐞𝐞wn.𝒸o𝔪 website to read fastest update
Shao Family.
Good that they were out of the way.
She did not intend to make a sumptuous lunch.
Ms. Fang did not need to stress because a foodie like Yang Xiaoni would not want those people to stay for lunch. So, she was not going to provide them with good food.
It was a vegetarian fare. Only Ms. Xu and two children had steamed eggs.
The three guests were not very happy seeing the dishes.
Qiao Kou said involuntarily, "You live in such a big house and have everything, but you only have these dishes for lunch?"
Yang San cut in. "l can see many chicken, and fish in the yard!"
Ms. Fang glanced at Yang San.
She had been careless not to keep eyes out for these two people who took a walk in the yard.
Ms. Fang did not feel embarrassed and explained. "Chicken should be kept for laying eggs. My elder daughter-in-law is pregnant and she needs to eat eggs everyday. When she is in her first month of confinement, we would kill a few chickens for her nutrition. No one kills chicken every day, and fish are being kept to exchange them for spices."
Qiao Kou sneered. "We are your guests.. Is this how you treat your guests?"
Ms. Fang was not afraid of her. She smiled brightly. "l am not treating you as guests, right? We are a family."
Qiao Kou got so stuck by her response that she had no idea what to say.
That was so shameless of her.
Even Auntie Ling and Concubine Du were shocked. This countryside woman was not very easy to deal with.
But when Concubine Du realized that Qiao Xuan had such an annoying mother-in-law, she assumed that Qiao Xuan would not be having a good time here, so she felt slightly better.
Auntie Ling still remembered their main purpose of coming here. So, instead of lingering over the minor thing, she smiled. "You are right, we are a family so we can help ourselves. The vegetables from the countryside are so fresh and we can have a good taste of them."
"Yeah, you are right Auntie Ling. Take a seat, and eat as many fresh vegetables as possible!"
She was not going to show them the garden and the fruits, as well as other herbs as well. Those were all precious things!
She could not be taken to the mushroom house at the entrance of the village. Ms. Qiao had told her that things inside there were very expensive too.
Ms. Fang had no idea what was going on at the Zhang Village, but she heard that Young Master Yuezheng had sent a manager to take care of them, so those things were definitely good ones as well.
Ms. Fang understood what dilemma she was facing right now.
"My daughter-in-law did buy some fields, but those are not precious ones, and have few products coming out of them. What is so good about it? Why would my in-law want you to see them?"
Auntie Ling gave a very meaningful smile. "Ms. Fang, I am just following Madame Qiao's order. She should have her own reason to do so. There is no way for me to ask her about it. Also, it is not a secret, right?"
Ms. Fang said to herself that it was, of course, something to be kept away from her in-laws.
"l am not sure what Ms. Qiao is doing. She uses the properties, and I never ask her about this…
That made Auntie Ling feel that something was wrong. So, she insisted with a smile. "l just want to take a look at them.. You don't have any idea about where
the properties are?"
"Madame Qiao cares about the Second Miss. If you don't tell me now, Madame Qiao would definitely send some more people here. 1 don't think that we need another unnecessary visit, do we?"
Ms. Fang said to herself. 'Well, try another visit then?'
Why would they come here again? That was a trap.
Ms. Fang turned to the other topics, and refused to show her what she wanted.
Auntie Ling felt annoyed and her face sank. "Ms. Fang, you keep turning me down. Is it because there is something strange in there? Madame Qiao can dig out whatever she needs to know. Do you think that you will be able to stop us forever?"
"l can tell Madame Qiao about what is going on here. Also, why is there a locked garden behind your yard? I heard that there are many fruit trees and spring water there too. I will go and take a look at it, is that fine?"
Ms. Fang was startled. 'Of course not. It was not ok!'
"Ms. Qiao owns the garden, and we can't get in there without Ms. Qiao's permission. Those are just fruit trees, why insist on checking them out? Auntie Ling, maybe you can go home now, and come back to ask Ms. Qiao when she is back?"
Nis. Fang kept turning her down, but she knew that she could not resist them forever. She just hoped that Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan would return home as soon as possible, so they could solve the problems personally.
Auntie Ling felt very irritated, hearing that this small request was turned down as well.
"Ms. Fang! I am addressing you respectfully, but don't think that you are someone great. No one would have a good result when countering Madame in our county!"
Ms. Fang looked at her and sneered. "Is the show finally over? I think that you must be very tired to have put on this amiable show. I can't make a decision for Ms. Qiao. When she is back, you can ask her yourself. You are just giving us a bad time when you come and ask for this and that."
"We are countryside people and we can't afford to treat you any longer. Please leave now."
Auntie Ling was so shocked that a countryside woman would disrespect Madame Qiao!
She sneered and was about to say something, when Concubine Du and Qiao Kou came in, looking messy.
Qiao Kou screamed. "Auntie Ling, let's just go home. I am going to tell Mother that the Shao Family is just ridiculous. They beat us!"
Auntie Ling and Ms. Fang were both shocked.
Yang Xiaoni and Shao Xiaoqi, Shao Sanlang came in together, looking furious.
Qi snapped and said angrily, "You are the robbers! I told you not to go to the garden, but you ordered the two women to smash the door. Are you bandits?"
Concubine Du and Qiao Kou heard from Yang San that there was a locked garden in the backyard, and they really wanted to have a look at it.
Qiao Kou could not stand the curiosity any more. She insisted on going to check it out and ordered Yang Xiaoni and Qi to open the door.
Yang Xiaoni and Qi refused. She kept cursing them and even ordering Yang San to smash the door.
Qi and Yang Xiaoni could not let them do that.. They stopped them and pushed them away, but Qiao Kou turned around and said that Qi and Yang Xiaoni had beaten them!
Qiao Kou sneered. "What on earth is hidden inside the garden so you won't show it to us? I will definitely find it out soon! I will tell Mother about this when we return, and she will send more people. I will see what you dare to do at that time!"
Auntie Ling stopped herself when she heard what Qiao Kou said.
No wonder Madame Qiao sent these two to keep her company. Sometimes they did need some wild and intimidating people to deal with the problem.
Ms. Fang hated it when Qiao Kou behaved so arrogantly. She got so furious and snapped. "Oh yeah? Trying to use your power now? We are not as noble as Madame Qiao, but we are an ordinary family who lives peacefully. How can you come and cause us trouble? Madame Qiao has sent some unreliable people and I want to argue with her about it."
Qiao Kou snapped at her disdainfully.
Arguing? Who did she think she was? How would she have a position to argue with her mother?
Did she think that they were actually being treated as in-laws? They were nothing but rude, poor farmers.
Seeing Qiao Kou treating Ms. Fang so impolitely, Shao Sanlang and Shao Xiaoqi got furious.
Shao Sanlang rolled up his sleeves and shouted. "Just get out of here! If you were not a woman, I would have beaten you. How dare you treat my mom like this!"
"You!" Qiao Kou flushed. "Rude and rough!'
"Get out of here!"
"Just wait and see!"
The three women could not stand it any more. They had to leave in a mess.
Qiao Kou kept cursing on the way home. She wished that Qiao Xuan was here, so she could have made sure that the old bitch would not have snapped at them.
Auntie Ling was silent all the way home. She was sure now that the Shao Family had some secrets.
She was thinking about how to report the news to Madame Qiao. After all, there was no evidence that proved their conjectures. Madame Qiao would not be satisfied by this result. They were going to have to give a good explanation…
When the three women were gone, Ms. Fang let out a sigh of relief.
But soon they became agitated.
"What should we do? Are we not going to be able to keep a low-profile any longer? Are we going to face more trouble?"
Yang Xiaoni was very worried.
Shao Sanlang consoled them. "Don't worry, Fifth Sister-in-law and Fifth
Brother will soon be here. They will have some solution when they are back." Ms. Fang sighed as well.
But that was the problem. The two of them were the spine of the family.
Qi was calm. He said, "l am afraid that the Third Miss of the Qiao Family was not joking. Madame Qiao will surely send more people here. 1 will go to the Zhang Village and get Manager Dong here."
Fifth Brother and Fifth Sister-in-law told them to fetch Manager Dong when they ran into problems that they could not solve.
This was the time to fetch him.
Civilians could not fight with officers, and they would not be able to confront Madame Qiao by themselves.
Ms. Fang was slightly relieved. She nodded and asked Qi to do that.
Manager Dong was from the Yuezheng Family, so he would be able to face Auntie Ling bravely.
The moment Qi told Manager Dong about this, he frowned. "Someone must have informed Madame Qiao about Mrs. Shao's properties. They have not got the confirmation they were looking for, so they will definitely come back again. I will follow you back to Shaoding village, Young Master Qi, and I will be residing in your place these days.. How does that sound?"
"For security's sake, 1 will write a letter to Young Master Yuezheng and tell him about this…
Manager Dong was Yuezheng Xiao's trusted servant, and his Young Master told him repeatedly about the Shao Family. Hence, he was very concerned about whatever was happening to them.
He knew about the lipsticks, so based on that, his own Young Master was definitely going to protect the first section of the Shao family, let alone their deep relationship.
Qi was very happy to hear that. He nodded with a smile. "That is the best. Thanks for your help, Brother Dong."
Manager Dong went back with Qi to the village whilst on the other side, Qiao Kou also passed on the happenings of the day to Madame Qiao.
With the narration of Auntie Lings exaggerated stories, Madame Qiao and Qiao Wei got very furious.
"How dare the Shao Family do things like this. But they can do nothing when I want to know something about them!"
Qiao Wei snapped. "Mom, there is something wrong going on here. We have underestimated the damned girl Qiao Xuan. She has been pretending all this while! I will not forgive her when she comes back!"
Qiao Kou added. "l knew that! Qiao Xuan always liked pretending. She never had a good heart. Now you believe what I said, Mother and Sister!"
Qiao Wei said, "Mom, ask Auntie Ling to take more people to pay them another visit tomorrow! "
Madame Qiao sneered. "Auntie Ling, take some police officers there as well. Let's see what the Shao Family is capable of!" Qiao Wei's eyes sparkled. "Yeah, that is right!'
Qiao Kou was very glad too. She proposed automatically. "Mother, I will go along with them tomorrow too so that I can regain the face for you!'
Concubine Du disapproved of this proposal, but she did not dare say anything.
Madame Qiao did not care. She said nothing. Qiao Kou could do anything and go anywhere she wanted because she did not mind if it was Qiao Kou or the Shao Family who got into trouble.
She and Qiao Wei would never be there personally. That was beneath them.
The Shao Family were not good enough for them to investigate personally.
But when they learned of Qiao Xuan's properties much later, they regretted it terribly.
After all, when Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan were missing, and the two of them broke into Qiao Xuan's place and found all those properties, they would have been able to take them for their own.
Even Ms. Fang and her children would not be able to stop it.
But they did not do that, thus missing the only chance they could possibly have.
The first section of the Shao Family did not expect Auntie Ling and Qiao Kou to come over so soon. Nor did they expect that they brought along two police officers.
Police officers were serious officials, so two of them were already enough.
Besides, it had been Madame Qiao who got the two of them transferred here personally, so the whole action was done in a very quiet manner. Ms. Fang and her family were slightly scared looking at the scene.
But Manager Dong was present beside them, luckily.
Manager Dong stepped forward and spoke with the two policemen, mentioning that the properties belonged to Yuezheng Xiao's, whilst the Shao Family were just in charge of watching them over. If they wanted to have a look at them, they needed to write a letter to Yuezheng Xiao who would come and have a talk with them personally.
But before Yuezheng Xiao was here, no one would be able to go into those places.
The two officers had to believe that. They could not counter the Yuezheng Family from the province!
Qiao Kou did not care. She wanted to break in, no matter what. But she could not move the two police officers, since she was not capable enough.
The two police officers could not just leave without making a deal with Manager Dong.
So, they decided to wait for Young Master Yuezheng who was going to arrive after three days. After this, they would be able to speak with Madame Qiao about this personally..
If he could not make it after three days, then Madame Qiao's order would have to be put into implementation.
Manager Dong communicated on behalf of the Shao Family, and sent his worker to pass on the message to the province urgently.
Auntie Ling and her group returned without receiving any results.
Madame Qiao started to feel skeptical. But she could not just provoke the Yuezheng Family by breaking into their properties. The Old Master had already forced many rich people to give him money, and he was not very liked among the rich households currently.
If the Yuezheng Family were offended as well, those rich households would combine forces with the Yuezheng Family to cause them trouble.
The Old Master's future was very important, and they had to be very careful about it.
Hearing the news, Yuezheng Xiao did not dare delay it by even a second.
But Shao Yunduan was going to take the imperial examination within five days, so after thinking about it, Yuezheng Xiao concealed the incident from Shao Yunduan and Qiao Xuan, and went to the county personally.
If he could solve the problem, he did not need to bother Shao Yunduan and worry him.
Sure enough, Yuezheng Xiao went to visit County Magistrate Qiao and recounted the whole story. Only then did County Magistrate Qiao realize what his wife had done behind his back. He got furious and gave his wife a warning.
Then, he politely consoled Yuezheng Xiao.
He even asked Yuezheng Xiao what his relationship was with Shao Yunduan?
Yuezheng Xiao did not conceal things at this point. He smiled and expressed that he appreciated Shao Yunduan, especially after he arrived in the province and attended many gatherings, he managed to attract even Young Master Xie's attention.
County Magistrate Qiao was shocked to hear that. Yuezheng Xiao sneered inwardly.
Officer Qiao was indeed very concerned about his own interest. He was not even bothered to conceal that.
Good, if the Yuezheng Family was not strong enough, Xie Jingrongs name could keep the first section of the Shao family safe for a while.
Officer Qiao smiled pretentiously. "My son-in-law managed to attract Young
Master Xie's attention? He is very lucky! "
"That is not luck." Yuezheng Xiao smiled. "Brother Xie has always had a high standard in seeing people. People without talents would not be appreciated by him."
Officer Qiao's heart skipped a beat. He believed the words completely.
He even felt that Yuezheng Xiao must be paying attention to him because Shao Yunduan attracted Young Master Xie's attention. He believed that Yuezheng Xiao was here to tell him that he was a good friend of Shao Yunduan's.
Young Master Xie was very arrogant and it was normal that he appreciated people with talents. But did he really see Shao Yunduan wrong? Was he actually that capable?
Officer Qiao smiled again. "You are right, Young Master, my son-in-law does have some talent. But how do you think he will perform at the imperial examination this time?"
Yuezheng Xiao was sneering inwardly. "Brother Shao is very talented. I believe that he will definitely have a good rank this time!"
He was not bragging about Shao Yunduan. Xie Jingrong spoke highly of this man and he trusted Xie Jingrongs judgment. He had a hunch that Shao Yunduan would make it, for some reason. He could tell that Shao Yunduan was very confident.
When a down-to-earth and steady man expressed that he was confident, he really was.
Officer Qiao cheered inwardly.
He could not even conceal his smile and nodded. "Good, good, 1 knew Yunduan was a good one.. He has lived up to my expectations!"
Yuezheng Xiao smiled. "Then, congratulations to you, Officer Qiao!"
"Thank you, thank you!"
So, Yuezheng Xiao solved all the problems on this visit.
Now, whether Shao Yunduan could make it this time, thanks to his relationship with Yuezheng Xiao and Xie Jingrong, County Magistrate Qiao would not do anything bad to this son-in-law of his.
He understood clearly how difficult it was to become a Recommended man. Very few people could make it on their first try. Even some capable ones could not make it because the competition was very fierce.
Shao Yunduan was young and he would have many chances in the future.
Officer Qiao was never going to let go of a son-in-law like that.
Officer Qiao lectured Madame Qiao and told her never to cause trouble to the first section of the Shao Family, at least before the examination result was announced. Before he was able to figure out Shao Yunduan's relationship with Xie Jingrong, nothing like this would be allowed.
Madame Qiao's heart ached.
Qiao Wei was very displeased too.
Qiao Kou was shocked. How could that be possible? A man like Shao Yunduan should not have any relationship with Young Master Xie! He was not even good enough to be his servant.
If Shao Yunduan could suck up to Young Master Xie, then it meant that Qiao
Xuan had the chance to meet Young Master Xie and have a promising future?
That could not be right!
Qiao Kou wanted to grab Qiao Xuan and interrogate her thoroughly.
Madame Qiao did not think that Shao Yunduan would be successful. So, she said angrily, "Let's wait and see!"
As long as Shao Yunduan failed, she had all kinds of solutions to change Old Master's opinions towards Shao Yunduan.
They would just wait for now.
But Qiao Wei was in a hurry. She could not stand it whenever she thought about this.
So, she went to Zhao Ming but did not tell her about Shao Yunduan's relationship with Yuezheng Xiao and Xie Jingrong. She told Zhao Ming to do something against the Shao Family and she was going to help her clear everything, irrespective of what she did.
She also promised that she was going to help the Zhao Family to get back the money her father got from them.
Zhao Ming had been very angry about being humiliated by the first section of the Shao Family, so she was motivated hearing the suggestion.
That was such a huge amount of money! If she could get it back, her parents would be so happy!
Zhao Ming was alone and not powerful enough. She was in a good relationship with her brother Zhao Guanghua, so she went to her brother and talked about this.
She and You were very annoyed because of what happened last time, so they decided to take revenge this time now that the chance was at their door.
The two of them made a plan with Zhao Ming and tried to convince Zhao Guanghua. Zhao Guanghua thought of the money, also of Yang Xiaoni and was reassured of Qiao Wei's promise, So, he approved of this proposal.
He told Zhao Ming, "You are a girl, and you don't have to get involved in this personally. I will deal with the rest!"
Zhao Ming only needed a result. So, she agreed happily.
What Qiao Wei wanted was that they could ruin the first section of the Shao Family and their reputation would be destroyed. But Zhao Guanghua was dreaming about Yang Xiaoni, so he decided to start working on her first.
In his opinion, if he could get Yang Xiaoni in his hands and bring a prostitute to ruin Shao Sanlangs reputation, then Qiao Wei's mission would be accomplished.
Zhao Guanghua understood that it could not be done recklessly, so he decided to make use of Yang Liang, based on what they had heard.
Hearing the plan, Yang Liang turned really angry. He snapped at Zhao
Guanghua.
He might not be a good brother, but he was not going to ruin his sister's life..
But even though Yang Liang did not like it, Ms. Tian was very motivated to do so.
She had been trying to find a way to take revenge on that bitch and now the chance had come.
Ms. Tian ignored Yang Liangs prevention, and accepted the 20 liang that She offered.
She could tell that the couple had different ideas. So, he said that he would come back the next day and left.
The moment She was gone, Yang Liang shouted angrily at Ms. Tian. "Why did you accept the money? You go and return the money! She is my sister, real sister, how could you… how dare you treat her like this?"
Ms. Tian sneered and put away the money. She did not care about Yang Liang's anger, and snapped back. "Real sister? She is living such a good life, and she has never spared a thought to you. Bah, real sister!"
Poked in his aching spot, Yang Liang became embarrassed but felt regretful too. "Shame on you. You treated her badly, that is why…"
"And you were dead?" Ms. Tian sneered and broke through his hypocrisy. "l treated her badly and you knew that clearly. But you said nothing. Now you are solely blaming me for it? Hehe!"
"l think that you treated her like that before, so you don't need to call her your real sister now!"
"Also, the Young Master Zhao can take her as a concubine even though she is married, what is so wrong about it? She can be Young Master Zhao's concubine and will have maids serving her, without any worries about food and clothes. Isn't that better than what she has now? We are doing this for her sake as well!"
"Also, Young Master Zhao is trying to teach the Shao Family a lesson and it means that he really likes that girl. Otherwise, she will fall into trouble together with the Shao Family! The Shao Family is nothing compared to the Zhao Family, and they are definitely going to lose this time. Will you like it when she suffers?"
"Anyway, we are doing this for her sake. She will thank us when she knows our purpose in the future."
"l have accepted the money and I am not returning it. Else, you can return it to the Zhao Family yourself! "
Yang Liang was speechless.
He sat down on the ground with his hands over his head, letting out a long
Ms. Tian realized that her husband was convinced. She sneered proudly and knew that Yang Liang had no opinion of his own. She could do anything she wanted with him.
She would do whatever to teach Yang Xiaoni a lesson, even if she was not paid.
That damned girl had no heart. She was living a good life but cut off her relationship with them. She had never visited them since she got married.
If Yang Xiaoni was so ruthless, then she could do anything she wanted too.
When Yuezheng Xiao dealt with the problem, the Zhao Family had not yet started their plan on the Shao Family. So, Yuezheng Xiao did not know about this.
Hence, Yuezheng Xiao only told them about what Madame Qiao did to the Shao Family and how Manager Dong dealt with the problem.
"Brother Shao, Sister-in-law, I should have told you earlier about this. But I was worried that you would be affected by it and may not do well in the examination. That would have been a pity. Most importantly, I was able to deal with this problem myself.."
"It was my fault, anyway. Brother Shao, Sister-in-law, please forgive me!"
Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan looked at each other transfixedly. They were shocked.
They had never expected that such a thing would happen at home!
They had not expected that Madame Qiao would send her people to cause trouble at this juncture.
Luckily, Qi turned to ask him for help, otherwise Madame Qiao would have discovered everything they had been trying to hide.
They would never blame Yuezheng Xiao for this. He was already very devoted to their well-being. He made this decision because he treated them as real friends.
"Brother Yuezheng, you really make me feel so ashamed of myself." Shao Yunduan replied emotionally. "We are not ungrateful people. Actually, we should thank you for your help, Brother Yuezheng!'
Qiao Xuan added. "Yeah. Most importantly, it has been solved and everything is fine!"
As Qiao Xuan thought of Shao Yunduan who had become the Provincial Champion, she smiled and added. "We will be fine henceforth!"
All of them understood what she meant and laughed.
They did not need to hide the secret any longer. When Shao Yunduan became the Provincial Champion, they would announce their relationship with the Yuezheng Family and Xie Jingrong. In this way, the Qiao Family would never dare to think about taking possession of their properties.
The three of them exchanged a few words and charted out a strategy about how to make the details about the properties public. It was very late by the time they finished.
Yuezheng Xiao felt assured, thinking that they did not blame them for making the decision on his own.
He was about to leave since it was getting dark when Shao Yunduan said, "Brother Yuezheng, I am thinking about going home with my wife tomorrow. Could you please help us to deal with the rest of the affairs here. If someone asks where I am going, please tell them that I need to go home to deal with some urgent matters."
Shao Yunduan was not entirely assured that the problem was solved.
He knew fairly well what Madame Qiao was capable of. If the news that he was the Provincial Champion reached the county, he could not be sure that
Madame Qiao would not do anything against his family.
After all, she hated his wife so deeply.
Maybe she would blame her for hiding everything.
Yuezheng Xiao understood that he could not stop Shao Yunduan at this moment. He nodded resolutely. "In this case, I will arrange the wagon to take you home. I and Brother Xie are here to help you! It is a little sad that you are back so soon, but we should have more chances in the future for other things!'
Shao Yunduan smiled with a gesture. "Thanks, Brother Yuezheng!'
"Don't mention it!"
After Yuezheng Xiao left, Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan packed up swiftly, ready to leave early the next morning.
They had lived here for a long while and Qiao Xuan bought many things. But they could not take too many back home, since the trip tomorrow was going to be very quick.
Qiao Xuan decided to take Liqiu back and let Lixia stay. She told her to work with Yuezheng Xiao, who could send her back home later.
If she did not understand something, she could turn to Auntie Hua who worked for First Madame. But she should be cautious about Second Mrs. Yuezheng and her daughter.
Qiao Xuan even gave her 10,000 liang and a letter for Yuezheng Xiao, asking him to buy out the land she had set her eyes on.
Lixia nodded nervously but she felt excited as well. Mrs. Shao seemed to trust her and hence, instructed her to do these tasks.
If she could do these well, she could become one of her most trustworthy maids. Mrs. Shao was an upright person and she would definitely ensure a good future for her.
Lixia felt so lucky to have been bought off by Qiao Xuan..
The dawn had just broken, when Qiao Xuan, Shao Yunduan and Liqiu were hurrying back home.
They knew Madame Qiao and Qiao Wei well, so even though they kept consoling each other, they still desired to arrive home as soon as possible.
Evil and reckless people would always do something unexpected, something beyond their expectation.
Shao Yunduan did not attend the gatherings of the recommended men. Yuezheng Xiao helped him to explain to others that Shao Yunduan needed to go home for some urgent matters at home. The others all understood what happened.
One could not be delayed when he needed to deal with something at home.
After She and Ms. Tian made the deal, Zhao Guanghua came to Yang Liangs home in a low-profile manner the following morning.
Thinking that he could get hold of the beautiful girl she had been dreaming of, Zhao Guanghua felt so motivated.
Nis. Tian received Zhao Guanghua and his servant passionately, and Zhao
Guanghua was generous enough to give her a small amount of money again.
Yang Liang wasn't feeling well. He remained silent, sitting in the corner with his head lowered.
Ms. Tian looked down at him. He had approved of this proposal as well. What was the point of pretending now!
When everything was settled at home, Ms. Tian went to Yang Xiaoni with two crying children, saying that Yang Liang had just rolled off the hill and got seriously injured. Maybe he would be paralyzed for the rest of his life. She expected her to come and take a look at him since he was her brother after all…
No one doubted that Ms. Tian would lie about this. She could not have been so evil as to joke about this, right?
Yang Xiaoni panicked as well. She felt empty in heart.
She did not hold any hope towards Yang Liang, but bloodline was a strange thing. So, when she heard about Yang Liangs accident, Yang Xiaoni could not be so cruel as not to visit her brother, after all.
Shao Sanlang wanted to keep them company, but halfway there, Ms. Tian again cried and asked Shao Sanlang to fetch a reliable doctor in the town.
They were too poor to hire someone good and the doctor in the village could not be of much help.
Shao Sanlang could not turn her down. Hiring a doctor was nothing to him because the amount was quite little. So, he nodded and left.
Yang Xiaoni went back home with Ms. Tian alone.
As they reached the familiar yet strange-looking yard, Yang Xiaoni stopped her steps and felt a little blurry in mind.
This place used to be her nightmare, and she thought that she would never come back after she left. But here she was, again.
She did need to visit her brother if he was about to get paralyzed.
It was just a visit, wasn't it?
Ms. Tian smiled at Yang Xiaoni seeing that she stopped. "What are you staring at? Come in!"
Yang Xiaoni's heart throbbed. She suddenly had a strange feeling.
Her brother treated her terribly but he liked Ms. Tian. He was the backbone of the family and if he got sick, Ms. Tian would not have been able to show a smile at this juncture.
Yang Xiaoni was a very open-minded person, not a cautious one.
But Ms. Tian had never treated her nicely. At this moment though, she seemed so different. That was very weird..
Yang Xiaoni said as she walked into the yard, "Is Yang Liang so seriously injured?"
Hearing that Yang Xiaoni did not even address her husband as Brother, Ms. Tian cursed her inwardly.
But she did not want to cause any trouble at the moment. So, she did not pick on Yang Xiaoni but sighed pretentiously. "Of course! He is lying in the room.
You should go and take a look at him, and speak with him too!"
Yang Xiaoni looked at Ms. Tian in surprise and her heart was throbbing.
Nis. Tian did not call her a ruthless and cruel girl?
That was very strange!
Yang Xiaoni might not be so skeptical towards others, except for Ms. Tian. She had been living under Ms. Tian's dominance for years and she survived to this stage because she knew Ms. Tian well.
She knew exactly what Ms. Tian was like. Suddenly, she felt that something was very wrong.
How could Ms. Tian treat her so kindly?
Yang Xiaoni did not want to enter the house. She said, "l will wait for Sanlang until he comes back with the doctor!"
Ms. Tian's face changed. She gripped Yang Xiaoni's arm and dragged her in. "What are you waiting for here? You have no heart, your brother is injured and you don't even want to look at him?" Yang Xiaoni shrugged away her hand and said, "Get off me, now!"
"Shut up now! I can drag you in!"
"You!" Yang Xiaoni was used to doing labor work, and she was physically strong. Ms. Tian could not control her.
The two women started fighting with each other in the yard.
Ms. Tian was worried that her money would be gone if she didn't succeed now, so she shouted loudly. "Shut the main gate now, now!"
She and Dou complained about Ms. Tian being useless, so they rushed out of the room.
"It is you!" Yang Xiaoni soon recognized the two people who had tried to grab her earlier. Scared and frightened, she did not even have time to curse Ms. Tian when she pushed her away, rushing towards the gate.
"Stop!'
She and Dou rushed out.
If the gate was closed and they gagged her, no one would see anything, and the matter would go smoothly. But if Yang Xiaoni rushed out, there was nothing they could do.
People were milling around the village.
They were not brave enough to rob a girl in broad daylight.
Yang Xiaoni was panicking. The gate was right in front of her, but she felt that she was not going to make it.
She and Dou were right behind her.
Right then, Yang Liang, who had been ordered to stay in the room, rushed out and bumped into She and Dou, who collapsed on the ground. Yang Xiaoni was suddenly relieved. She rushed out without looking back.
"Bitch, stop now!" Ms. Tian did not give up and instead sped out.
Yang Xiaoni asked for help when she was rushing out. "Help, help me please!"
Ms. Tian wanted to beat her to death. "Stop it, shut up now!"
Some villagers were on the way and they saw the scene, feeling surprised.
"Hey, Xiaoni is here!"
"What is wrong? So confusing!'
"Yeah…
She had just reached the entrance of the village when a donkey cart came towards her..
Shao Sanlang hopped off the donkey cart and ran into Yang Xiaoni.
"Brother Sanlang!" Yang Xiaoni threw herself into Shao Sanlangs arms, crying loudly and feeling miserable.
Ms. Tian's heart sank. She turned around and decided to run away.
Qiao Xuan and Liqiu had already hopped off the donkey cart and caught up with Ms. Tian who had already become exhausted. They gripped her tightly. Qiao Xuan gave her a sarcastic smile. "Ms. Tian, what are you running for? You know you can run but you can't hide."
"Let go of me! Now!"
Ms. Tian struggled out and snapped at her. "l am not running! I have not done anything wrong!
Qiao Xuan replied coldly. "You wish you didn't."
Yang Xiaoni spilled out the story in Shao Sanlangs arms. Shao Sanlang got so furious that he shouted loudly at Ms. Tian.
Qiao Xuan said, "Many people must have seen what happened today. We should clarify the matter so that people won't guess randomly. What do you think?"
Shao Sanlang glared at Ms. Tian, and then turned to Yang Xiaoni.
Yang Xiaoni wiped her tears and sobbed. "Whatever you say, Fifth Sister-in-law!"
"In this case, we will go to Fifth Grandma Yang. We are also going to speak with the Land Officer and the elderly men from the clan today!'
Ms. Tian did not agree with her. But Qiao Xuan and Liqiu were not loosening their grip on her.
Shao Sanlang and Shao Yunduan went to fetch Yang Liang and brought him to Fifth Grandma Yangs home.
As for Zhao Guanghua and his servants? They had already escaped.
But they were not going to get away with this.
Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan's wagon had just run into Shao Sanlang who was going into the town with the bullock cart.
They got down and greeted each other.
Shao Sanlang was very happy seeing them come back. When he heard that Shao Yunduan was the Provincial Champion, he smiled brightly.
It was already four in the afternoon, and Shao Sanlang must be heading into the town for some urgent matter. Shao Yunduan asked him about it.
Shao Sanlang told the story.
Qiao Xuan burst out immediately. "Third Brother, how can you leave the Third
Sister-in-law alone with the Yang Family? You know how they treat her! "
Shao Sanlang was shocked. He replied hesitantly. "It should be fine… right? You know…
Yang Liang was lying still and nothing would happen to Yang Xiaoni at this time, right?
Qiao Xuan replied. "l think we should be careful. Ms. Tian is never up to any good and she might bully the Third Sister-in-law!"
Shao Yunduan agreed with her. "Third Brother, I think my wife is right!'
Shao Sanlang panicked, hearing the couple's words. "What? What should we do? I will go back and take a look!"
Shao Yunduan was not very assured by this straight-minded brother of his. He could not handle a fierce woman like Ms. Tian.
In fact, even he could not do so. But things were different at this moment. He was Mr. Provincial Champion, and when this identity was revealed, he did not need to deal with Ms. Tian personally. "Darling, let's go with him."
Qiao Xuan nodded. "Okay, let's go now!"
They would arrive home later tonight, and could finish this task on the way.
Shao Yunduan asked Qu Shan to hire a doctor from the town, whilst Qiao Xuan, Shao Yunduan and Liqiu went onto the donkey cart with Shao Sanlang as the driver. They headed towards the Yang Village..
Then, this was the scene that they ran into.
Qiao Xuan was right. Something was wrong! Ms. Tian's expression told them that Yang Liang was completely healthy.
When they asked in the village, everyone was shocked.
"Yang Liang is seriously injured? Of course not, I saw him wandering around in the village yesterday at noon!"
"Yeah! The couple are so lazy, how can they go to the hill and get injured? Hahaha?!"
"Shame on them! They lied just to get Xiaoni home?"
"That is so bad!"
"That is totally over the top!'
"But Xiaoni is also bad. She doesn't want to speak with her brother and sister-in-law."
No matter what the truth was, the news had been spread.
Yang Xiaoni, Qiao Xuan and Liqiu forced Ms. Tian to visit Fifth Grandma Yang, and everyone went to see the show of Yang Liangs family.
When they met Fifth Grandma Yang, Qiao Xuan greeted her politely and narrated the story briefly. Then, she 'accidentally' spilled out the news that her husband had not only become a recommended man, but also the Provincial Champion! They were just hurrying home to pass on the good news to their family, but ran into such a thing halfway…
Yang Xiaoni was surprised and glad, whilst Ms. Tian turned pale. The others exploded vividly, when Qiao Xuan's words were heard.
"What? Did I get it right? Shao Yunduan is a recommended man now? Mr.
Recommended Man?! "
"And Ms. Qiao said he is ranked first. Is that true?"
"Of course yes, who dares make such a lie!"
"Shao Yunduan, no, Cultivated Talent Shao, no, Recommended man Shao, you are so capable!"
Fifth Grandma Yangs family felt so honored when they heard that. They kept saying congratulations to Qiao Xuan and her husband and started to show a lot more enthusiasm and politeness towards Yang Xiaoni.
Fifth Grandma Yang, without hesitation, asked her children to get Land Officer and the elderly men from the clan over.
Soon, Shao Yunduan's success in the examination spread across the Yang Village.
Soon, Yang Liang was escorted there.
Shao Sanlang became the brother of Mr. Recommended man, whilst Yang Xiaoni was the sister-in-law of Mr. Recommended man. Moreover, this Recommended man was the Provincial Champion. What did that mean?
It meant that he had the biggest chance to become the advanced scholar next year in the spring examination!
After all, he was the first one in the whole province!
At that time, he would become an officer!
Who would want to offend an officer for people like Yang Liang and Ms. Tian. They were definitely going to help this potential officer!
It was a very easy process of interrogation. Under heavy pressure, Ms. Tian soon confessed everything, without being brave any more.
But she was not regretful. She kept complaining about Yang Xiaoni for being cruel. But for her ruthlessness, she would not have been tempted to do something like this.
Yang Xiaoni got annoyed hearing that.
Some people from the Yang Village tried to tell Yang Xiaoni to be tolerant and open-minded. If Yang Xiaoni could help their village now when Shao Yunduan was rising in his position, their village might possibly become promising as well. So, they all hoped that Yang Xiaoni could accept her brother and sister-in-law's apology.
That would make the Shao Family's relationship with the Yang Village better..
Yang Village would feel honored even as they spread the news.
Qiao Xuan said coldly, "You have made a huge mistake and almost ruined my Third Brother and my Third Sister-in-law's life. How dare you blame her? My Third Sister-in-law is from the Yang Village, and she will always remember that. But she will never accept you as her family!
Shao Yunduan added. "I am planning to establish a school in the village and I will buy 300- 400 mu of good fields to support the school costs. I am also going to invite children from the village to attend the school. The Yang Village is very close to my village, and I can spare ten places in the school for this village…"
People's eyes were sparkling already. They were both surprised and happy.
"Really?"
"For real?"
The Land Officer tried to press down the excitement in his heart. "Recommended man Shao, are you sure?"
"Of course, I am not going to lie in front of you, right? Those students will not have to pay a penny for the tuition fees. They will get ink and paper on a monthly basis too."
"That is great!
"Yeah, my son can attend the school without tuition fees and even get the paper and ink! I can really afford to let them study!'
"Same here! I don't expect them to be very successful. The title of a Cultivated
Talent can get them a job at a bank in the town!"
"Yeah, being able to read leads to more work opportunities."
They were talking as they threw unkind looks at Yang Liang and Ms. Tian.
Everyone started to curse the couple.
They did not stop until the Land Officer asked them to. But they all said that Ms. Tian should be punished and thrown out of the family.
This evil-hearted woman should not stay at the Yang Village to ruin the Yang
Village's reputation.
The Land Officer thought so too. He had never liked Ms. Tian, who was so unreasonable, and Yang Liang could not even control her. He was the Land Officer, but he had not been able to get involved in villagers' family affairs.
So, if she could be driven away on this occasion, that would be great.
No one would want her to stay here any longer.
Nis. Tian had no supporters around her. She panicked as she shouted at Yang Xiaoni. "Yang Xiaoni, I gave you food and shelter, but you are driving me out? You should think about your brother and your two nephews. If your parents were alive and saw their grandchildren losing their mother at this age, they would never forgive you!'
With that, she burst out into tears.
Yang Xiaoni could not stand it. She turned away, saying nothing.
Shao Sanlang snapped at her though. "Shut your mouth! You almost got my wife killed. Why should she forgive you?"
Qiao Xuan said, "Ms. Tian, stop blaming my Third Sister-in-law for anything. You caused your sons' misfortune. But for your evil plans, Land Officer and elder men from the clan would never have driven you out. You don't deserve to be part of the Yang Village. Why is my Third Sister-in-law involved in this?"
"You are a ruthless woman and you may not be a good mother. Maybe your sons would be taught by you to do something even worse!"
The Land Officer, who had been hesitating, made up his mind after hearing Qiao Xuan's words. "Divorce now! Ms. Tian will be sent to the ancestral hall and afterwards, she will be sent back to her home the following morning!'
"No, no, you can't treat me like this." Ms. Tian burst out into tears. The two children were very scared and started crying too,
Yang Liang suddenly stepped forward. "Land Officer, and elders! Don't make me divorce her. We will leave the Yang Village and will never come back.. I swear, we will never return…
Yang Liang had always been bullied by Ms. Tian but he relied on Ms. Tian heavily. He was used to her.
He just could not imagine how to survive without Ms. Tian, and how to bring up his two sons.
He never imagined marrying again.
He had no money to afford a new wife. Alos, no woman from any good family would be willing to marry him!
That was why he made the suggestion.
They were all shocked, including Yang Xiaoni.
Honestly, when they left the hometown and the protection of their clan, it would be very difficult to set up a base somewhere else.
Especially Yang Liang and Ms. Tian, who were lazy, poor and had no skills for anything. They would simply be waiting for death without the house and the fields that they had now.
Yang Xiaoni's heart ached. In her brother's heart, she simply did not exist. Otherwise, he would not have defended Ms. Tian at this point.
Anyway…
She thought of how Yang Liang rushed forward to bumped away the two bandits because of which she got the chance to slip away.
Otherwise…
Yang Xiaoni closed her eyes in pain. This was the last time.
"Uncle Land Officer, they don't have to leave the village. But I want you all to be my witness today. I am going to break off my family ties with him, and we will never have anything to do with each other!"
"Moreover, this is the last time. If you ever set me up again, I will report you to the government office. 1 swear I will!"
Ms. Tian let out a sigh of relief hearing that they did not need to leave. She was about to counter Yang Xiaoni to ask something more, when Yang Liang answered his sister. "Okay, we will break up our relationship with each other. We will never have anything to do with each other, ever…"
He could not meet her again anyways. He was too ashamed. It was good that they just stopped having a family bond.
He did not prevent her from getting set up today, after all. Seeing her rushing about anxiously, he suddenly felt bold and rushed up to bump away the two bandits. That was all he could do.
He knew that he was stupid and useless, but what else could he do?
Qiao Xuan smiled. "Good. Then, we write it down on the paper, and seal it with three copies. We will keep one for ourselves, one for the Yang Village's ancestral hall archives, and the third will be for Yang Liang and his wife."
"We have to write clearly why the relationship has been broken, in case people try to spread rumors later."
Neither side had anything against that suggestion, except for Ms. Tian but she did not dare say a thing.
So the whole thing was settled. The letter was written and signed.
From that moment on, Yang Xiaoni was a complete stranger for Yang Liang and his family.
Everyone from the village sighed. It served the couple right!
If they had not been so critical towards Yang Xiaoni, they would flourish too when Yang Xiaoni married into such a good family.
They would definitely have gotten something good, and their situation would have become much better than what it was now.
Recommended man Shao had a promising future, and Yang Xiaoni was his sister-in-law. That was such a great honor!
But now Yang Liang and his wife had nothing to do with their sister any more…
Ms. Tian looked furious. She did not seem to be willing to break off the relationship. Was she still trying to get something good out of it?
In her dreams!
The audiences sighed and some cheered looking at this show.
Shao Yunduan again reassured the Land Officer that when the school at Shaoding Village was built, the Yang Village would get ten free seats along with ink, and paper. Everyone from the Yang Village was satisfied and left happily.
No one cared what happened to Ms. Tian.
After this incident, it was already dark when Shao Yunduan and Qiao Xuan returned home.
The rest of the family were dumbfounded seeing the couple coming back with Shao Sanlang and Yang Xiaoni.
It took them a long while before Ms. Fang realized that it was not a dream. The family cheered happily.
Her son and daughter-in-law were back. The backbone of the family was back!
Ms. Fang asked how Yang Liang was doing. She got furious hearing the story told by them.
Thank goodness that Yang Xiaoni was lucky! Shao Sanlang ran into Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan, and thanks to their reminder, Yang Xiaoni was saved.
Ms. Fang said, "Third, and Ms. Yang, you must be grateful to Yunduan and Ms. Qiao! You were saved because of them."
Ms. Fang sighed emotionally. This son of hers and his wife were incomparable to anyone else in the family. With them around, she did not need to worry about anything.
Before Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan could refuse, Shao Sanlang and Yang
Xiaoni nodded and gave the couple a deep bow, almost bending their back.
"Thank you so much, Fifth Brother and Fifth Sister-in-law, thank you so much for what you did for us today."
"Thank you so much, Fifth Brother and Fifth Sister-in-law!"
"Oh please, don't be like this!"
"Third Brother, please, get up now!"
Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan felt a bit embarrassed. They helped Yang Xiaoni and Shao Sanlang stand up.
Ms. Fang said seriously, "It is fine. They should thank you. Both of you, always remember this favor they did for you!'
Shao Sanlang and Yang Xiaoni nodded and looked grateful.
This was definitely something they had to remember forever. But for this coincidence, they just could not imagine what the consequences would have been like.
Maybe Yang Xiaoni was taken back by Ms. Tiana There would be many rumors circulating after that, if Shao Yunduan and Qiao Xuan had not brought them along with the Land Officer and Elderly Men from the clan to make a clarification.
Once the gossip was spread, there was no way to make it clear. As the time passed, the gossip would turn real, and no argument would be able to bring out the actual truth. Neither way would work out.
Even if she killed herself, people would say that she must be too ashamed to live.
Rumors could kill, no matter whether it was true or false.
Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan did not turn them down but accepted the gratitude.
"Finally, you are back. Let's wait at home for the announcement of the result.
You must be very tired after the long trip. Taotao, Xiaoni, go and make dinner. Steam the smoked sausage, stir fried cured duck with garlic sprouts, steam and make some egg custard, along with fried eggplant and long beans! Let's eat first and take a good rest. We will talk about everything tomorrow."
Taotao and Yang Xiaoni went to cook food.
Shao Yunduan and Qiao Xuan exchanged a smiling look and said, "Dad, Mom, Elder Brother, Elder Sister-in-law, the results were announced yesterday. I am a Recommended man, as well as the Provincial Champion!" Shao Sanlang smiled. "Yeah, our brother is so intelligent!'
Everyone present. '
Ms. Fang, Eldest Uncle and everyone else was shocked.
Ms. Xu was the first to recover and started laughing.. "Parents, this is great! This is wonderful news!
"Hahaha! Yeah, great news, wonderful news! Yunduan finally made it! Hahaha!" Ms. Fang finally realized what was going on. She kept laughing and felt like she was floating in the air.
This was indeed brilliant, and delightful news!
The whole family cheered happily and passed on congratulations to each other. Their words were all jumbled up and no one knew what they were talking about in the end. All they knew was that Shao Yunduan became a
Recommended Man and ranked first in the examination. They were so glad!
A long while later, the excitement settled down a little. Then, they started to talk with each other, asking about Shao Yunduan's examination.
Shao Yunduan and Qiao Xuan had been calm about the results ages ago, but when they were surrounded by the cheerfulness of the family, they were delighted nonetheless.
Shao Yunduan smiled and answered every question patiently. Their questions were all asked out of curiosity, strange but interesting. It was a lively scene in the family.
Taotao and Yang Xiaoni had finished making dinner and asked Shao Yunduan and Qiao Xuan to come over and eat.
The family was sincere when offering them the food. They were truly happy for them.
Ms. Fang kept asking Shao Yunduan to eat as much as possible. She felt very concerned when she heard that Shao Yunduan spent nine days in the examination room.
The simple dishes served at home were full of homely taste and warmth.
Ms. Fang glanced at Elder Uncle, asking suddenly. "Oh yes, are we supposed to inform the other brothers about Shao Yunduan becoming the Provincial Champion so they can celebrate with us?"
Everyone was startled.
Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan exchanged a knowing look.
Their mother was up to something!
Eldest Uncle's first reaction wasn't good. His face changed. "Of course… yes…
yes… definitely."
For some reason, Eldest Uncle now had subtle feelings towards the other two sections. He suddenly felt that since Shao Yunduan had become Provincial Champion, the other two sections of the family were not at the same level as them now.
Everyone was looking at him openly or secretly. They were not surprised by the moves on his face.
Ms. Fang sneered inwardly. Wasn't he the one talking about one family and all? Now that they had such great news, he didn't even want to tell them in case they got angry. What was wrong with Yunduan being excellent?
Nis. Fang asked intentionally. "How about you visit them now and share the news with them?"
Eldest Uncle coughed slightly, turning down the suggestion. "It is getting so late, we can wait until tomorrow. Also, we have hidden Yunduan's participation from everyone. Liulang even asked about this specifically. I never told him that Yunduan went for the examination… how can I explain it to them now?"
He was simply blaming the others between lines.
Qiao Xuan pursed her lips. Ms. Fang was very displeased, and so was the Elder
Brother.
Ms. Fang firmly believed that what her son and daughter-in-law told them to do was right, and that they should follow their instructions.
Qiao Xuan knew clearly what was going on with Shao Liulang.. He was never
up to any good!
It was not something that could not be explained. But Eldest Uncle would not believe that Shao Liulang would be up to anything evil!
He would never believe it!
Maybe he would even tell Shao Liulang the truth just to prove that he was never up to any bad.
Due to this, Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan did not explain the reason why the family should keep the trip to the province a secret.
That made Eldest Uncle very displeased.
Qiao Xuan said, "Dad, that is very easy to explain. Just tell them that it is not auspicious to say things ahead of time. That is our belief, isn't that okay?" "l like this excuse!" Ms. Fang agreed readily.
Eldest Uncle felt even more annoyed. He threw a blaming look at Qiao Xuan. "This is ridiculous! Why did you keep it a secret, can't you say that now?"
Shao Yunduan put down the chopsticks. "That doesn't matter now. Dad, you don't have to ask about it any more. My wife and 1 are doing everything for the family's sake."
Everyone else nodded. "True!"
Eldest Uncle was so angry…
He felt that he had been left out of the family.
"l trust you, but we need to explain it to others clearly so we don't have misunderstandings…"
"Dad, there is no understanding for us. I believe in my brother no matter what!"
"Shut up!" Eldest Uncle glared at Shao Sanlang. He had wanted to tell Shao Yunduan to take good care of the other sections of the family, but he lost interest, knowing that his request would not be responded to.
Actually, he wanted to hear Shao Yunduan volunteering to make the offer, but that was not going to happen for sure.
Suddenly, a loud banging sound on the door arose. It was Ms. Yan and Ms. Niu.
Chunyu went to open the door.
Ms. Yan and Ms. Niu rushed into the room. Ms. Yan had just greeted them when Ms. Niu cried loudly. "Elder Brother, Elder Sister-in-law, you have to help us! My grandson is gone, I am so concerned!"
Since they did not know about Shao Yunduan's visit to the province, they did not find his and Qiao Xuan's presence strange.
But Ms. Yan realized that she had not seen Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan on her few previous visits, and she felt that the first section of the family must be hiding something from the others. But she did not ask or say anything more.
Ms. Niu's words shocked everyone in the room.
"What!
"Gone? What does that mean?"
"Mom, don't cry. Tell Eldest Aunt, and Eldest Uncle what happened, so that we can all help!" Ms. Yan cried and held back Ms. Niu in tears.
Ms. Fang felt good that Ms. Yan was present, so things could go easily.
Ms. Yan told the story.
After lunch, Shao Xianwen was playing in the village but did not come home until evening. They did not pay attention to his absence until a long while later. Children were always playing together and they might forget to come home.
Usually, they only went to get children when dinner was ready.
Same went for the second section of the family.
However, they could not find the child. The children who hung out with Shao Xianwen said that he went home already.
That made the second section of the family very anxious.
They went about searching in the village but still failed. They were really anxious at this moment..
Ms. Zhang was crying dreadfully, and the Second Uncle and his son went to different families in the village to ask for help. Ms. Yan and Ms. Niu came to the first section of the family for help.
It was indeed a huge deal when the child was missing, especially when the child was only four years old.
The first section of the family also got nervous. Before Eldest Uncle said anything, four brothers from the first section of the family offered to help to seek the child.
Ms. Fang was about to say something to stop Shao Yunduan. But she held herself back.
Qiao Xuan got up. She came to Shao Yunduan's side. "Darling, let me go with
She could use her superpower to connect to the plants in the mountains. With that, her vision would be stretched to at least ten miles away. It would be much easier for her to find the child and safer too.
Both of them had just returned from the trip and she was very tired. It was already dark and she did not want anyone to run into an accident.
Nis. Fang frowned. "No way. You don't know how to walk in the mountains when it is dark. You should stay at home. Many people are out looking for the child, you don't need to join us."
Shao Yunduan said to her gently, "Mom is right. You can sleep at home. I will go out to look for him."
Ms. Niu added. "But one more person, one more possibility. Ms. Qiao can join us if she wants to.'
They cared about the child, but Ms. Fang sneered. "You said so because she is not your daughter-in-law! What about Ms. Zhang herself? Is she out looking for her own son?"
Ms. Niu was silent. She mumbled. "1 didn't ask Ms. Qiao to. She offered it herself…
"But can't you say something nice? Ms. Qiao was not born here. She is not used to walking in the mountains so late at night. No sense in your head at all. You are just selfish!"
Ms. Niu was so annoyed. "Eldest Brother, look at what the Eldest Sister-in-law said! "
"l am talking sense, which you can't!"
Eldest Uncle was feeling very anxious. "Stop arguing now. We should find the child first!"
Shao Yunduan pinched Qiao Xuan's hands gently. "You can take a break. Don't worry."
Her mother-in-law was defending her against Ms. Niu, so Qiao Xuan should not insist on going with Shao Yunduan. Otherwise, her mother-in-law would have done all in vain whilst Ms. Niu would feel superior.
Shao Xianwen was just four years old and should not have gone too far. He should be fine. So, she did not have to join the searching team.
She nodded and said to Shao Yunduan in a small voice, "Don't give yourself too much stress…
They had had a long day, actually.
Shao Yunduan felt his heart warm up. He replied in a low voice. "Don't worry!'
All men, including Eldest Uncle, were out searching for the baby. It was quiet in the room suddenly.
Ms. Fang asked Ms. Xu and Qiao Xuan to go to bed.
Ms. Yan also asked Ms. Niu to go back home.
Instead of sleeping, Qiao Xuan stood in her yard and placed her hands over an orchid tree. She used her superpower and allowed it to go through all the plants.
She would not miss anything as long as she could look carefully within dozens of miles.
It took time for her to conduct the move.
It also cost her energy due to the large scope of area.
Shao Yunduan was not with her, so she did not need to be too cautious. She could recover after one night's sleep.
As she glanced across the area, she, however, did not notice any sign of Shao Xianwen!
That made Qiao Xuan quite confused.
Shao Xianwen was just a little boy. How far could he go? He might have run away himself, but even if he had an adult with him, he would have stopped within dozens of miles.
People might miss some places. But Qiao Xuan would never miss any corner.
She had even looked into the water, but she could see nothing.
Her heart sank. Could Shao Xianwen have been taken away by some human trafficker?
That should not have happened. Human traffickers might be around, but they rarely came to the village to kidnap children. Strangers were always noticed when they were in a village,
They would not be able to kidnap children away easily.
Ms. Niu must have asked about strangers from the other children too. If that was the case, they would have reported it to the governmental office rather than go out to seek the child first.
So, where did the four-year-old child go?
Qiao Xuan was feeling a little upset. It would be a little difficult to find the child in this way.
She felt very tired after maximizing her superpower. She could not hold for too long.
Not finding anything, she withdrew her superpower.
Subconsciously, she could not help but feel curious about what Ms. Zhang and Ms. Niu were doing.
Ms. Niu was still awake, sitting by Ms. Yan's side in the room. Ms. Niu was mumbling about her grandson's whereabouts, looking really worried.
Ms. Yan was consoling her constantly.
Ms. Zhang must have gotten too tired to continue. She was now back in her room.
She had fallen asleep! She even snored!
Qiao Xuan could not help but look down at her. Her son was missing, and the whole family was so anxious. But she was the mother and was in the midst of a good sleep.
Even if she was tired from crying, she could not have slept so deeply.
She was totally heartless.
Dawn came, and the searching teams came back. Shao Yunduan and everyone else from the village were very tired. But none of them had found Shao Xianwen.
Seeing everyone back fruitless, Ms. Niu let out a scream. She passed out directly, which caused people to get anxious again.
Those who spent the whole night searching were all really tired. They discussed amongst themselves that another batch of people should go and look for the child.
Someone even suggested that they should report it to the government.
What if someone did take the child? That could be possible.
Even Shao Yunduan and Qiao Xuan started to believe that maybe it was the human traffickers who did it. If they were delayed, they might not even be able to find the child.
So, they could not stand one moment of delay.
Everyone agreed that they needed to try different methods.
Shao Yunduan tried to make himself stay awake, and offered to go to the governmental office. Qiao Xuan offered to tag along.
No one countered that suggestion. They were the County Magistrate's family and they should be the one who made the report.
The couple decided to take off directly.
Shao Yunduan was already Provincial Champion, and they were sure that County Magistrate Qiao would pay attention to it. They also planned to ask him to search in the neighboring area of the county, and some towns that surrounded the county too.
But Ms. Zhang turned that down. She cried. "No strangers were in the village, so that could not have been possible… We are commoners and we should not get close to governmental officers… They are not easy to deal with.."