Springtime Farming: A Happy Wife At Home

by Usui Takumii

not mine, novel bin dot me and all novel updates. Also at ao3.

39. 761 to 780

Chapter 761: Preparation

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

Ms. Fang agreed and added. "Me and your father should listen to that as well! We have to be cautious and protect ourselves, in case they ruin our family and

Duan's future!"

Ms. Xu and Yang Xiaoni felt slightly better and smiled, nodding.

Qiao Xuan added. "One more thing. If someone sets up our husbands and claims that she is pregnant, then…"

Ms. Xu and Yang Xiaoni's smiles stiffened.

Ms. Fang was startled as well.

Qiao Xuan did not mention this on purpose, but that is something that could not be ignored. She needed to mention this after all.

That was a way for women in ancient times to cause trouble.

Even in the modern time, there were many parents who cared about children.

What if someone made it with a man in the Shao Family, and came to the door with tears in their eyes, what should they do about it?

Who would be so hard-hearted as to drive her away?

Even though men might turn her down, yet women of the family might not be able to do so, otherwise the women would be considered vicious, jealous and not at all understanding, so that their children would not be able to find any marital suitors.

Also, in-laws would not tolerate grandchildren to be out on the street like orphans.

Shao Sanlang turned to Yang Xiaoni with sincerity in his eyes. "Darling, I assure you that I will be extremely cautious and vigilant. I will do everything in my power to ensure that I am not set up. You have to trust me."

Yang Xiaoni said, "Of course, I trust you. But what if you find yourself in a situation where someone tries to manipulate or deceive you?"

"I won't… I definitely won't!"

"What if…

Qiao Xuan found the dynamic between her family members interesting yet slightly irritating. She couldn't help but cast a glance at Shao Yunduan, who had been quietly listening to their discussion without feeling the need to be warned.

Shao Yunduan confidently interjected, "I won't be set up." He exuded a strong sense of self-assurance in this regard.

As Yang Xiaoni and Shao Sanlang continued their argument, the atmosphere grew tense, leaving Ms. Xu feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to say.

Ms. Fang, growing frustrated with the ongoing dispute, firmly interjected, "Enough, both of you! Just stop arguing. If such a situation were to occur, we will ensure the safety and well-being of our children while providing the woman with a suitable settlement. Regardless, we must never allow individuals with ill intentions and a tarnished reputation to enter our home!"

Ms. Xu and Yang Xiaoni felt slightly relieved.

"You are right, mom. We do as you say!'

"Yeah, mom is right!"

Qiao Xuan smiled and agreed with her mother, "Mom, you have come up with a good solution. That indeed is the best way to handle such a situation. If it were to occur, the woman should not even be allowed to stay pregnant within our home. We will arrange for a separate small house and have guards to monitor her. Once the child is born, we will take custody of the child, while providing the woman with the agreed-upon financial support. By making it clear to others that we refuse to fall for such tricks, people will think twice before attempting to scheme against us again!"

"Yeah, that is totally right!'

Ms. Xu and Yang Xiaoni were even more delighted hearing that.

Nis. Fang nodded too.

Qiao Xuan continued, "In reality, we are discussing these matters as a precautionary measure. If we are vigilant and cautious enough, it is unlikely that such situations will arise. So, Elder Sister-in-law and Third Sister-in-law, there is no need to be overly anxious."

Ms. Xu and Yang Xiaoni felt relieved by Qiao Xuan's reassurance, They expressed their gratitude to her with appreciative smiles and nods.

Being proactive and discussing these potential scenarios before they actually occurred was crucial. They were thankful that their Fifth Sister-in-law had brought up these concerns and shared her insights.

County Magistrate Qiao had gained substantial benefits after the downfall of the Zhao Family.. Although most of the Zhao Family's assets were deposited into the shared savings and the county's bank…

Officer Qiao held significant influence in the county, and if he conducted some discreet arrangements and distributed benefits to the strategists, administrators, guards, as well as lower-ranking government officials, nobody would dare oppose him.

The officer had amassed a substantial fortune, and he couldn't help but feel delighted about it. He owed this success in large part to Shao Yunduan's suggestion to eliminate the Zhao Family, a decision he wouldn't have made without his input.

As a gesture of gratitude, Officer Qiao instructed Madame Qiao to select fine jade, porcelain vases, exquisite jewelry, and 300 liang of silver to present to Shao Yunduan. This was intended to foster a closer relationship between them.

Madame Qiao, however, wasn't particularly pleased about it. She believed that they had acquired their fortune through their own abilities, so why should they share it with the two "bastards"?

"Yunduan and Quan are already quite well-off. They have established a close relationship with the Yuezheng Family and lack nothing. Xuan's jade bracelets alone are worth more than ten thousand liang!'

Officer Qiao's expression turned sour.

He had been coveting Qiao Xuan's bracelets for a while. He had even made up his mind to claim them for himself once he returned to the capital, making them his own prized possession.

However, after successfully toppling the Zhao Family, he had secretly acquired more than 10,000 liang in addition to the confiscated properties, and he had completely forgotten about Qiao Xuan's bracelets. He didn't want to provoke any animosity with Shao Yunduan or give Qiao Xuan a reason to despise him.

Officer Qiao had never been particularly kind to Qiao Xuan, and he knew that if they continued to shower her with favors, she would suspect ulterior motives or even suspect a setup. Women were often suspicious and had a tendency to harbor grudges. What if she whispered something to Shao Yunduan? That would certainly complicate matters.

Officer Qiao continued, unfazed by Madame Qiao's discomfort. "She can indeed have her own properties, but it's important to show our generosity. We are fortunate to be wealthy now, so what harm is there in sharing some with them? Let's not be stingy. Yunduan is destined for a bright future, and it's crucial to establish a good relationship with him from the beginning. Otherwise, our gratitude may lose its value if we're even slightly late."

Madame Qiao couldn't help but feel even more uneasy upon hearing her husband's remarks about Shao Yunduan. After all, she had chosen Shao

Yunduan as her son-in-law.

"Very well, Old Master," Madame Qiao reluctantly agreed. "But please, Old Master, let's not exaggerate the virtues of our son-in-law. The spring examination has yet to take place, and we can't predict the outcome. Our county is small, and people from humble origins often have narrow perspectives. In any case, he is not superior to our own son, is he?"

"Old Master, please don't hold such high expectations too soon. You may end up disappointed," Madame Qiao cautioned, maintaining her stance. While her words held some truth, Officer Qiao couldn't shake off his discomfort. He furrowed his brows and retorted, "Are you determined to contradict me? Let me make it clear: stop scheming. Shao Yunduan has no other support. Our task is to win him over and ensure his unwavering loyalty. Don't be so narrow-minded!"

Madame Qiao felt a surge of irritation, but she forced a smile and reluctantly agreed. They proceeded with the preparations for the gifts, but to their surprise, Shao Yunduan outright refused to accept them. He stood firm in his decision.

He made it clear that he wanted no association with the properties or assets seized from the Zhao Family. He even declined any involvement with the stores and fields that were acquired through their confiscated possessions. As a Recommended Mandidate, he had the privilege to purchase land without going through the standard procedures.

Shao Yunduan was adamant that the Shao Family should have no ties whatsoever with the Zhao Family, even in the slightest sense.

County Magistrate Qiao was left puzzled by Shao Yunduan's motives. Consequently, his respect for the man deepened, accompanied by a tinge of guilt in his own heart.. This son-in-law of his was certainly not ordinary!

Someone caught wind of Shao Yunduan's intentions and saw an opportunity.

They purchased numerous fields from the Zhao Family and approached Shao Yunduan, offering to sell some of them to him. These fields had no connection to the confiscated assets.

To everyone's surprise, Shao Yunduan accepted the offers and bought the fields, paying a price higher than the market value. In total, he acquired 400 mu of land. He then donated these lands to the clan, entrusting the elderly men, clan chief, Land Officer, and appointed individuals from the Shao Family to jointly manage the land ownership documents. All the income generated from these lands would be allocated towards supporting school expenses and enhancing the ancestral hall.

As for the remaining funds, they were to be recorded in a public account, reserved for use during times of disasters or emergencies.

With the resources secured, construction of the school commenced without delay.

Apart from the school building, Shao Yunduan and Qiao Xuan also discussed the need for a separate yard dedicated to a library and study room. This space would cater to diligent students who couldn't afford to purchase books of their own.

Together, they established principles and rules for the school's operations. In addition to the daily administration, they implemented regulations specifically for the library and student-related matters.

Firstly, the books in the library were not to be borrowed; they could only be read within the study room. However, students were allowed to make copies of the books and take those copies with them.

To incentivize academic progress, they devised a system where students who achieved the status of Child Student would receive a monthly supplementary of 50 wen. However, if a student failed to pass the Cultivated Talent examination after ten years, the supplementary would be canceled.

On the other hand, if a student successfully attained the rank of Cultivated Talent, they would be awarded an additional 100 wen, which would be valid for a period of ten years.

Furthermore, a fare of ten liang would be provided to any student who needed to travel for the autumn examination. This fare would cover the expenses for each journey made to attend the examination.

The established standards served as a foundation, but they were open to adjustments based on the actual circumstances, with approval from the clan.

Essentially, it meant that any talented children from the clan could wholeheartedly pursue their studies, knowing that their needs would be taken care of. Even orphaned children could lead a frugal lifestyle and continue their education, supported by the bonuses provided and with two mu of plain fields at their disposal.

The news spread throughout Shaoding Village, filling the community with joy and excitement. Families, particularly those with children of the right age and sufficient intelligence to become students, rejoiced at the prospect of their children being the first to attend the school.

Even families with younger children felt a sense of gratitude and anticipation, knowing that their children would have the opportunity to benefit from the school in the future.

Furthermore, the provision of funds for disaster relief added an extra layer of security for the village, ensuring their resilience in times of crisis. It was truly a remarkable development that brought immense relief and gratitude to the villagers.

Shao Yunduan went even further by expressing his intention to acquire additional fields for the clan, recognizing that the initial 400 mu was insufficient. This announcement heightened the village's joy and reinforced the unshakable foundation established by the first section of the Shao Family.

While Shao Yunduan didn't personally engage in the physical construction, he provided the necessary funds, allowing the villagers to mobilize their collective efforts to complete the projects.

As the time for cassava harvesting approached, Qiao Xuan hired workers to carry out the task. They took great care in preserving the seedlings, ensuring their viability for future planting.

Cassava cultivation was relatively low-maintenance. Once the stems were cut, they were stacked and stored in a cellar. When needed, they could be easily chopped into pieces and prepared for planting. These resilient crops required minimal attention to thrive.

The cassava plants, nurtured by Qiao Xuan's exceptional superpower, yielded abundant harvests. Unlike its leafy counterparts, cassava's main produce lay hidden beneath the soil, similar to potatoes and peanuts. Each plant bore multiple gray-brown fruits, roughly the size of eggs, measuring one to two feet in length.

After carefully harvesting the mature cassava, they peeled away the thin layer of taupe skin, unveiling the firm, white flesh beneath. This pulp was sliced into thin pieces and left to dry under the sun. Once thoroughly dried, the slices were ground into a fine powder and passed through a sieve, resulting in the extraction of tapioca flour..

To achieve a smoother texture, the tapioca powder underwent additional rounds of filtration, ensuring its refined quality.

Qiao Xuan discovered various creative uses for the tapioca flour. When combined with steamed pumpkins and taros, they crafted delectable taro balls of different colors and flavors. Additionally, by blending the powder with brown sugar, they could concoct flavorful bubble tea, a delightful treat for all.

In preparation for the upcoming Mid-Autumn Day, they planned to sun-dry the cassavas so they could transport them to the province. The dried cassavas would then be used to make winter desserts, incorporating taros, bubbles, and sugar water.

However, a challenge remained: despite the increased production volume enabled by Qiao Xuan's superpower, the total volume was still insufficient.

They needed a steady daily supply to ensure that the stock would last until the following year. Nevertheless, they remained optimistic that the situation would improve in the coming year, allowing for greater production and availability.

With the arrival of autumn and the colder weather, Qiao Xuan decided to hire workers to cultivate more barren land for cassava planting.

The villagers were intrigued by the unfamiliar crop and began asking questions. Qiao Xuan openly shared her knowledge, explaining the characteristics of the plant and how it should be handled. Whenever someone inquired about cassavas, she would provide detailed information and instructions.

One crucial point Qiao Xuan emphasized was that fresh cassavas needed to be bleached before consumption to remove toxins. This revelation surprised many, but their interest grew significantly after tasting the delicious cassava-based dishes such as balls, dumplings, steamed pastries, and pancakes.

Since wheat couldn't be grown in their region and flour was expensive, cassavas became a viable and economical alternative. The ease of cultivation made it accessible for every household, and within three years, cassava plants spread to neighboring villages as well.

The powdered form of cassava was nearly identical to flour, making it a versatile and widely used ingredient in various culinary creations.

The cassava plants thrived in various types of soil, thanks to Qiao Xuan's superpower that facilitated their growth. They adapted well to the local climate and produced larger, more abundant fruits.

As the Mid-Autumn Festival approached, it was customary for the villagers to visit the Qiao Family and exchange gifts. They also planned to present gifts to the Yuezheng Family and Xie Jingrong, with the latter receiving gifts on behalf of Yuezheng Xiao.

Dragon fruits, papayas, pineapples, sugarcanes, tangerines, and bananas were all reaching maturity. The first section of the family had already indulged in the delightful flavors of these fruits and praised their quality. The bananas, pineapples, and dragon fruits were especially well-received.

Qiao Xuan carefully selected the ripe fruits as presents for the Yuezheng Family and Xie Jingrong. Although the quantity wasn't large, the fruits were exceptionally fresh and flavorful.

Under First Madame's instructions, Qu Shan was tasked with delivering the gifts along with those from Xie Jingrong. Qiao Xuan entrusted Qu Shan to handle the transportation of the gifts back to their intended recipients.

Qiao Xuan made a mental note to bring a larger quantity of fruits on her next visit. The fruits were thriving and possessed a delicious flavor that she was certain would be enjoyed by Yuezheng Xiao and the rest of the family.

As for the gifts prepared for the Qiao Family, they were not particularly extravagant. They didn't include any of the fruits or special plants grown in their garden, such as watermelons or the precious snow fungus, honey, and lipsticks. Instead, they adhered to the traditional practice of purchasing items from stores.

However, this time they bought a slightly larger quantity of gifts compared to previous visits, as the Qiao Family were aware that they were in a better financial situation..

Officer Qiao's warm reception and his enthusiastic greeting to Shao Yunduan as "the best son-in-law" was a noticeable change in attitude. Qiao Xuan observed that even Madame Qiao, despite her feigned aloofness, was secretly pleased to receive them, along with the servants. Even Concubine Du and Qiao Kou, who had never experienced such treatment before, were included in the warm welcome.

Qiao Wei couldn't help but size up Qiao Xuan once again. She was adorned in a vibrant water-red satin embroidered with delicate primroses and a butterfly pattern, paired with a light beige thread-stitched long skirt. The ensemble beautifully accentuated her slim and graceful figure. Her ebony bun was immaculately styled, and the elegant hairpin adorned with pearls, pomegranate, and magnolia flowers added a touch of luxury and sophistication.

Qiao Xuan's elegance emanated not from excessive ornamentation but from her refined demeanor, exuding a sense of nobility and propriety.

Qiao Wei couldn't help but feel a pang of envy. She reluctantly acknowledged that a well-dressed appearance enhanced a person's overall beauty. Seeing Qiao Xuan, who used to appear introverted, now radiating with confidence, she couldn't deny the transformative power of clothing.

Qiao Wei couldn't help but fixate on Qiao Xuan's bracelets once again.

Another new pair? She thought to herself.

This time, Qiao Xuan adorned her wrists with a pair of intricately carved gold bangles, adorned with several lustrous pearls.

The oval-shaped gold bracelets featured elaborate floral motifs, intricately sculpted and polished to perfection. Several snow-white pearls, each the size of a thumb, were meticulously embedded throughout the design. The edges of the bracelets were accented with a delicate tortoiseshell inlay, providing a subtle yet opulent contrast to the modest gold hue.

While gold bracelets were not uncommon, a pair with such large and exquisite pearls was truly a rare find.

"First Madame certainly treats you well, sister. Did she gift you these magnificent bracelets too?" Qiao Wei asked with a tinge of bitterness, aware that her question was laced with envy.

After all, every young girl had a fondness for beautiful, exquisite, and precious jewelry.

Qiao Wei, who had recently splurged on some new ornaments from the province, had planned to flaunt them in front of Qiao Xuan. However, her confidence waned as she glanced at her own bracelets, which had cost her 1,000 liang after days of pestering her parents.

Qiao Xuan responded with a gentle smile. "Yes, Elder Aunt Yuezheng has always been kind to me. She even wanted to make me her goddaughter, but I declined because I don't believe I deserve such an honor. Nevertheless, she sees me as a good person and treats me accordingly."

"What?" Madame Qiao exclaimed, a pang of disappointment washing over her. Though upon reflection, she realized that Qiao Xuan's refusal was probably for the best. Otherwise, she might have become more unruly.

However, deep down, Madame Qiao couldn't help but feel a slight sense of injustice based on Qiao Xuan's words. Naturally, she assumed that if the First Madame wished to accept Qiao Xuan as her goddaughter, her own daughter should also be considered.

After all, her own daughter was surely superior to Qiao Xuan, wasn't she?

Madame Qiao entertained the idea of finding a godmother for her daughter. The Yuezheng Family, being a prosperous business family, held significant influence, and establishing a connection with them would undoubtedly bring numerous advantages.

The jealousy of Qiao Kou and Qiao Wei towards Qiao Xuan was evident as they couldn't help but sneer. They believed that Qiao Xuan was fabricating her claims, insisting that the First Madame would never have liked her.

"She's just bragging," Qiao Kou muttered under her breath, while Qiao Wei nodded in agreement.

Qiao Xuan, sensing their disbelief, found amusement in their reactions. She smiled, feeling a sudden urge to find a peaceful spot for a nap. She wondered if there was a suitable place available for her.

Deep down, Qiao Xuan acknowledged the strained relationship she had with her lineal mother and stepsister. Aware that they were obligated to treat her cordially under her father's watchful eye, she saw no point in prolonging their interactions if they truly disliked one another.

After all, she considered herself considerate in avoiding unnecessary confrontations with them.

As for finding a place to rest, Madame Qiao had arranged a small courtyard for her through Auntie Ling, ensuring that Qiao Xuan did get a designated space of her own..

But upon hearing Qiao Xuan's request, Madame Qiao couldn't help but feel annoyed. She believed that Qiao Xuan was being far too unruly. Where did they think they could just take a nap? Did they forget how they used to behave in the past?

In her previous days, she would have never dared to make such a request.

Although Madame Qiao wanted to give a resounding negative answer, she restrained herself from bursting out in anger. It was fortunate that she was out of sight.

Deciding to accommodate their request, Madame Qiao instructed the servants to find a suitable place for Qiao Xuan, Lixia, and Liqiu to rest. The courtyard was carefully prepared, and despite some wilted flowers on the table, an array of pastries, snacks, and drinks were served.

However, Lixia and Liqiu couldn't help but voice their dissatisfaction upon seeing the pastries and snacks.

"The pastries lack the smoothness of ours! They are so roughly-made!"

"The tea has no scent and looks far inferior to what we have at home!"

"And these flowers, they are not as pretty or fragrant as ours!"

Qiao Xuan couldn't help but be amused by their complaints. After all, she was the one who had created those pastries at home, using the finest ingredients. The tea she served was made from the most precious tea leaves, cultivated and nurtured under her watchful eye with her unique powers. Naturally, nothing could compare to the quality she had achieved.

The Qiao Family was no longer a threat to her.

Together with Shao Yunduan, they had been strategizing on how to sever ties with the Qiao Family. They had no intention of maintaining any closeness with such tasteless and shameless individuals.

Soon, their plans would come to fruition.

As the mistress and maids were engaged in conversation, Concubine Du appeared with the reluctant Qiao Kou in tow. It seemed that Concubine Du had come to beg for forgiveness for their past wrongdoings.

The harsh reality of their lives was evident in the worn-out appearances of both Concubine Du and Qiao Kou. Concubine Du, who used to exude arrogance and pride, now seemed devoid of any such expressions.

Qiao Xuan had no interest in engaging in trivial arguments with them, but she also had no intention of forgiving them easily. What right did they have to beg for her forgiveness now, expecting her to grant it?

The previous owner of her body must have endured a great deal of suffering, which was why Qiao Xuan herself found it difficult to establish a harmonious relationship with them. Especially Qiao Kou, who had intentionally caused her numerous troubles.

"You are not in a position to demand forgiveness, and I am not inclined to grant it," Qiao Xuan stated firmly.

Concubine Du appeared relieved. "Second Miss, are you saying you have decided to forgive us? Thank you…"

"I'm sorry for the misunderstanding, Concubine Du. The truth is, we have no connection whatsoever. We have never offended each other, nor do we need to seek forgiveness. The best solution is for us to live separately. What are your thoughts on that?"

Regardless of whether Concubine Du was willing to accept the truth, she was nothing more than a slave to Madame Qiao, bound to carry out her orders regardless of her own desires or dislikes. Rebelling against Madame Qiao's commands was out of the question for her.

While Qiao Xuan despised Concubine Du for her actions and felt anger towards her, she had no intention of seeking revenge or causing her unnecessary hardship. However, if Concubine Du ever attempted to deceive her or set her up, Qiao Xuan would not forgive her, nor would she be accommodating or allow her to have her way.

Concubine Du's expression stiffened. After a moment of contemplation, she forced a smile. "Second Miss, you are correct…"

Concubine Du had initially planned to beg Qiao Xuan for forgiveness, hoping that if Qiao Xuan showed leniency, they could form an alliance. In doing so, she would use Qiao Xuan's influence to bring down Madame Qiao, while also gaining personal benefits from the situation.

However, Qiao Xuan proved unexpectedly difficult to persuade.

Not daring to linger any longer, Concubine Du muttered a few more uncertain words and hastily departed with Qiao Kou.

Lixia and Liqiu glanced disdainfully at them, remarking on the fickleness of both the mother and daughter.

Qiao Xuan let out a mocking laugh.. "Concubines can only navigate their existence through such means, constantly searching for a solid footing but never truly finding it!'

Disappointed, Concubine Du listened to Qiao Kou's angry outburst. "Concubine

Du, you expect me to beg her for forgiveness? What a joke!"

How ironic! Qiao Kou had never dared to utter a word against her in their previous lives.

Concubine Du sighed, feeling distressed. "l can see the end of my life approaching. I am doing this for your own good!"

Qiao Kou sneered in response. "No thanks!"

"Why not?" Concubine Du panicked. "Your marriage remains unsettled, and Madame Qiao is taking her anger out on us. Do you honestly think she will find a suitable husband for you once we return to the capital?"

"What about marrying someone here? You are Qiao Xuan's sister, and Shao Yunduan is a Recommended man. Any family you marry into would treat you well because of their connections!"

Suddenly, the idea seemed appealing to Concubine Du. "Ah, yes! The Yuezheng Family would be a good option. What about Young Master Yuezheng? Or perhaps…"

"Stop it, Concubine Du!" Qiao Kou's face darkened. "l am an unmarried woman, and if you continue meddling in my affairs, I will report to Father and Niother! Stay out of my business!"

With that, Qiao Kou turned and hurried away.

She had no intention of marrying anyone here. The Yuezheng Family might be decent, but they didn't compare to the elite families in the capital. Young Master Xie would have been a better choice, but unfortunately, he wasn't present.

Moreover, the only way for her to live a comfortable life was by ingratiating herself with Qiao Xuan. If she followed this path, she could ensure her happiness.

She was going back to the capital to snatch Qiao Wei's marriage alliance, causing both Qiao Wei and her mother to suffer and cry in despair!

Concubine Du was taken aback, feeling a mix of anger and disappointment at her daughter's callous words. She was doing everything for Qiao Kou's sake, so why was her own child so heartless toward her?

Despite her distress and sadness, Concubine Du gathered her resolve once again. She wouldn't abandon her daughter. After all, Qiao Kou was her own flesh and blood!

With the funds replenished, Officer Qiao arranged a lavish lunch, aiming to please his daughter and son-in-law.

The table was filled with braised abalone, sea cucumber with green onion, and stewed bird's nest, ensuring an extravagant feast for each person.

Officer Qiao spared no expense to win the favor of his daughter and son-in-law.

Qiao Xuan was taken aback. Did her father truly hold such high expectations for her husband? It seemed like a burden and a potential source of bad luck.

The lunch appeared to be successful, and soon after, Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan stood up, ready to leave.

However, Madame Qiao coughed and addressed Qiao Xuan, "Your mother intends to take your sisters to the province to visit First Madame Yuezheng.

Xuan, you must assist your mother in building a strong relationship with First

Madame Yuezheng, understand?"

Madame Qiao wore a smile as she continued, "First Madame treats Quan so well. With her support, everything will turn out fine. Old Master, you needn't worry."

Her words carried an implicit message that if anything were to go wrong, it would be Qiao Xuan's responsibility.

Qiao Xuan inwardly sneered. No wonder she had been treated to such a lavish feast. They were trying to win her over for a favor!

She realized she should have anticipated this. Her father had never been generous towards her unless he needed something in return.

In response, Qiao Xuan forced a smile and said, "Don't worry, father. 1 will do my best."

However, she made a silent decision. She would only fulfill what she was capable of doing. Anything beyond that, she would not stoop to their level of shamelessness..

Shao Yunduan was taken aback by the repulsive proposal put forth by his father-in-law. It was so distasteful that he almost felt physically sick.

He had hoped that if his father-in-law treated Qiao Xuan kindly, their relationship might not be too strained, or at least remain intact on the surface.

It would have been ideal if Qiao Xuan had a reputable family supporting her, or at least the appearance of it.

He didn't look down on her, and he had no intention of playing any tricks on her. However, he couldn't guarantee that others wouldn't try to undermine her.

He didn't want anyone to belittle her or plot against her.

When Qiao Xuan informed him and her family about the unsavory matters, she should have realized that she needed to be cautious.

If he were to become an officer in the future, would there be those who would conspire against her, knowing she lacked a strong family background?

Perhaps he was being overly cautious, but it was better to be prepared for any potential challenges.

Shao Yunduan had not anticipated the selfishness of the Qiao Family. They did not deserve the support of Qiao Xuan's family.

"Father-in-law, it's getting late. We should head home," Shao Yunduan suggested, showing his lack of interest in prolonging their stay.

Officer Qiao had intended to share more thoughts with Qiao Xuan, but upon noticing Shao Yunduan's slightly impatient expression, he decided against it and allowed them to leave.

Qiao Wei pursed her lips and muttered, "Mom, I don't think Second Sister is willing to help us. She must hate us, which is why she won't lend a hand."

Madame Qiao smiled reassuringly. "Oh, no, that's not true. She is your father's daughter and will always stand by his side. Daughters would never harbor hatred towards their fathers, right?"

Officer Qiao shot an irritated glance at Qiao Wei. "Your mother is correct. Your sister isn't as narrow-minded as you think! Even if she were, she should never hate her parents! What are you even suggesting?"

Madame Qiao smiled. "Don't blame Wei. She's just being concerned."

Officer Qiao snorted but didn't say anything further.

Soon, Mid-Autumn Day arrived, and the harvest season was approaching.

The first section of the Shao Family owned only a few fields, so they hired workers to help with the reaping, alleviating the burden on the family.

However, the fields in Zhang Village required more attention.

There was also a pond that yielded fruits. Qiao Xuan harvested some lotus roots and water chestnuts to bring home.

The water chestnuts were steamed directly in a steamer. Once cooked, the black and hard shells were peeled off, revealing the snow-white flesh of the water chestnuts. They had a tender and chewy texture, with a fresh and sweet taste unique to aquatic plants.

The lotus roots were cut into chunks and stewed with pigs trotters and peanuts. The resulting soup was rich and flavorful, while the lotus roots themselves were fresh and sweet. Additionally, they made hot and sour lotus root sticks. The soy-colored sauce clung to the finger-sized lotus root sticks, which were stir-fried with garlic cloves, green peppers, and red sour peppers. The dish offered a delightful combination of crispiness, spiciness, and tanginess.

The whole family enjoyed a satisfying and delicious meal.

The abundance of lotus roots allowed the family to enjoy various dishes for months to come. They could prepare cold lotus root slices, hot and sour diced lotus root, stir-fried lotus root slices, deep-fried lotus root chips, steamed lotus root meat pie, lotus root meatballs, lotus root ribs stewed soup, osmanthus glutinous rice with lotus roots, and more. The versatility of lotus roots provided endless culinary possibilities.

In addition to the lotus roots, the betel nut taro that Qiao Xuan brought back from the province was also ready for harvest. Each betel nut taro weighed around 3-5 to 4 kilograms and exhibited numerous purple spots on its surface, creating a beautiful appearance once the peel was removed..

The alluring consistency and appearance of the betel nut taro made it a tempting addition to their meals. Inspired by its delicious taste, Qiao Xuan decided to cultivate more taro plants to create high-quality taro balls, a delicacy they could enjoy in the future.

As September arrived, Qiao Xuan began sorting through the items they would bring to the province. They had nearly 100 kilograms of snow fungus and 800 lipsticks, which they intended to take along. Additionally, they planned to bring a variety of harvested goods for First Madame.

Among these items were the lotus roots they had, but they also included a selection of taros. They would also bring Gastrodia elata, heterophylla, and figs. Other fruits such as ripe dragon fruits, pineapples, bananas, papayas, tangerines, and sugarcanes would also be included.

While the quantity of these fruits was not substantial, their freshness and vibrant flavors added a sense of confidence to Qiao Xuan. The fruits from the southern region thrived remarkably, particularly the dragon fruits and papayas, enhancing the array of offerings they would present to First Madame.

In addition to the fruits mentioned earlier, Qiao Xuan had plans to grow lychees, longans, and mangoes, as long as everything went well after the cold winter.

The fruit trees had grown thick, their trunks as wide as her arms, demonstrating their robust and healthy condition. They promised a bountiful harvest in the coming year.

With all preparations in order, Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan, accompanied by Nis. Fang, Elder Uncle, Yang Xiaoni, Shao Sanlang, Qi, Taotao, Shao Junyan, and Shao Qing, embarked on their journey to the province for a delightful time.

Eldest Uncle initially hesitated to join, but Ms. Fang insisted on his presence. It was necessary to have someone remain in the village for the sake of the familys security and stability.

Shao Dalang and Ms. Xu chose to stay behind, attending to the care of their youngest son. The little boy was still too young to embark on a long trip. However, Ms. Xu held hope in her heart, believing that there would be future opportunities for them to travel there.

Qiao Xuan entrusted the care of Ms. Xu to Lixia and Liqiu, while Chunyu and Chunfeng accompanied the group on their journey.

Due to the construction of the school, the first section of the Shao family had gained recognition in the village, which provided reassurance to Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan to leave only Ms. Xu and Shao Dalang at home. With the support of the Land Officer and Elderly Men, anyone causing trouble to the family would not be tolerated.

They had hired three wagons for the trip. One wagon was designated for carrying goods and presents, while the other two served as transportation for the travelers. They set off from the county early on the 5th of September.

Qiao Xuan deliberately did not inform Madame Qiao about their departure, nor did she allow her to join them on the journey. Qiao Xuan was determined to keep them out of their affairs and prevent them from exerting any influence or control over their plans.

The Qiao Family remained unaware that Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan had already traveled to the province for their own shopping trip. Meanwhile, Madame Qiao was still in discussions with County Magistrate Qiao about their planned visit to the Yuezheng Family on the 8th of September, intending to leave on the 7th.

Madame Qiao believed that if they could spend the festival together, it would strengthen their relationship with the Yuezheng Family. Officer Qiao supported this idea wholeheartedly.

On the 6th day, Madame Qiao sent Auntie Ling to fetch Qiao Xuan from Shaoding Village to bring her back to the mansion, so they could travel together the following morning. However, to her surprise, Auntie Ling returned alone.

Auntie Ling informed Madame Qiao that the Qiao Family had already departed for the province the previous day. Madame Qiao couldn't believe what she was hearing. "What are you saying? How dare she…"

Qiao Wei sneered and suggested, "l knew that girl was just pretending.. Mom, let's inform father about this so that he can reprimand her!"

Madame Qiao's expression darkened. "Auntie Ling, speak clearly and tell me everything! '

She needed to inform Old Master about this situation and understand what was truly happening.

Auntie Ling continued, "When I arrived at the house, only Shao Dalang and his wife were present. I asked them about Second Miss going to the province, but Ms. Xu claimed she had no knowledge of it. She mentioned that she was occupied with taking care of the children and had no idea about Second Miss's plans. In fact, she suggested that I ask Second Miss directly…"

Madame Qiao realized that this was part of the plan Qiao Xuan had discussed with Ms. Xu. No matter who from the Qiao Family came asking, Ms. Xu was instructed to respond with "l don't know" and nothing more.

Ms. Xu also had reservations about engaging with Auntie Ling, concerned that she might be drawn into something. Therefore, she followed Qiao Xuan's instructions and consistently maintained that she had no information. Ms. Xu used the excuse of being busy at home to deflect Auntie Lings probing and ultimately dismissed her.

Auntie Ling, seething with anger, couldn't believe that she had been dismissed by a rural woman. However, she reminded herself that Ms. Xu was, in fact, her younger sister-in-law, and as an elder, she shouldn't pry too much into her affairs. Reluctantly, Auntie Ling made her way back home.

Madame Qiao was equally frustrated. "Qiao Xuan must have deliberately done this!"

Qiao Wei chimed in with a sneer, "Of course. Mom, she puts on a facade of kindness in front of father, but deep down, she's not on our side. She still holds a grudge against us. Otherwise, she wouldn't have kept those precious ornaments a secret from us!"

Qiao Wei couldn't help but feel envious, especially when she thought about the luxurious bracelets adorning Qiao Xuan's wrists. She had never seen such extravagant jewelry before, and she couldn't help but wonder how Qiao Xuan had obtained them.

Madame Qiao sneered in agreement and promptly ordered Auntie Ling to bring County Magistrate Qiao to her room. She needed to discuss this matter with him and find out the truth.

County Magistrate Qiao, initially assuming that Madame Qiao had brought up the matter to deliver some greetings from Qiao Xuan, was taken aback by her angry outburst. He asked in a cold tone, "Is there a misunderstanding between

Madame Qiao let out a sigh and replied, "Old Master, Auntie Ling personally went to Shaoding Village. There's no room for misunderstanding. It seems that Xuan still holds a grudge against us…"

County Magistrate Qiao's expression darkened further. After a brief pause, he said, "Perhaps… but no… the first section of the family went to the province together, right?"

"Yes.

"That explains it." County Magistrate Qiao suddenly felt a sense of relief. "The Shao Family went as a large group, so it might have been inconvenient for them to travel together. It's nothing to worry about. You can stick to the original plan and travel as scheduled tomorrow. You can contact them once you arrive."

Madame Qiao and Qiao Wei were left stunned by County Magistrate Qiao's response.

Qiao Wei screamed. "Dad, Qiao Xuan doesn't think you and mom are important. She doesn't like us and you are still defending her!"

"Shut up! What do you know anything?" County Magistrate Qiao shouted. "Don't suspect your sister. She is kind and she doesn't want to cause anyone trouble. She is apparently trying to save us trouble and you are not only ungrateful, but also lecturing at me? Wei, you have to improve your personality! "

Qiao Wei. "I…"

"Old Master is right.. Wei, no more talks!"

Madame Qiao drove away Qiao Wei and she smiled. "You're right, Old Master. It would be foolish for Qiao Xuan to stay with the Yuezheng Family. It would only bring disrespect and disdain upon us."

County Magistrate Qiao was startled, and he could no longer keep the composure.

Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan passed by the county but did not even greet them, though they did not want to cause them trouble. They did not even inform them where and how to reach each other in the province.

If Qiao Xuan went into the Yuezheng Family with her whole family, she was just being so rude and she would be disliked.

The Yuezheng Family would mock them and hate them.

First Madame would not like her any more.

How ridiculous!

County Magistrate Qiao, however, still tried to self console. "Xuan and her husband are still too young to understand what they should do… they may have forgotten to tell us."

"I think her husband should have the basic rules about how to socialize with each other. They should not just go to the Yuezheng family like this. Go and meet them when you are in province together."

If Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan were in a good relationship with them, Madame Qiao should have all the reason to visit the Yuezheng Family, since she was the lineal mother of the family.

Madame Qiao sneered. She had lost interest in the County Magistrate's words.

He just wanted to save his own face and made himself convinced.

Just wait and see…

She wondered what made Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan so precious that her husband defended them all the time?

Qiao Wei felt even worse as her frustration grew. She couldn't help but vent her frustrations to her mother. "Mom, is Dad out of his mind? Qiao Xuan, that wretched woman, is playing games with us, and yet Dad still defends her? What on earth has she done to him?"

Madame Qiao sneered in response and turned to Qiao Wei. "Wei, I have found a suitable suitor for you. You need to work hard and secure a promising future for your husband so that you can completely overshadow Qiao Xuan!"

Qiao Wei remained puzzled by her father's actions, but Madame Qiao seemed to have a better understanding of the situation.

It became clear to Madame Qiao that her husband's favorable treatment towards Qiao Xuan stemmed from his belief in Shao Yunduan!s potential for a prosperous future. However, such predictions were never certain.

The next morning, Madame Qiao, accompanied by Qiao Wei, Qiao Kou, and Concubine Du, embarked on their journey to the province. Madame Qiao always made sure to bring Qiao Kou whenever matters concerning Qiao Xuan were involved. When neither Qiao Wei nor Madame Qiao held a proper position, it was Qiao Kou who would be forced to step forward and take charge.

As for Concubine Du, Madame Qiao had no intention of leaving her alone with County Magistrate Qiao. Concubine Du understood Madame Qiao's motives, and her resentment towards the situation only deepened.

Qiao Kou was filled with excitement when she received the invitation to travel to the province.

Upon their arrival in the evening, they settled into a nearby hostel.

Madame Qiao purposely selected a hostel that was in close proximity to the Yuezheng Family.

Meanwhile, Qiao Xuan and her family had already moved into the mansion located in the alley. The mansion had always been well-maintained by the Yuezheng Family, and upon learning of their arrival, thorough cleaning had been done to ensure a fresh and welcoming atmosphere.

The entire family was in awe of the magnificent mansion.

"Wow, this is our house? Oh my god, this is the province we've been talking about! "

"Fifth Brother and Fifth Sister-in-law are so incapable. I would never have gotten such a huge house in the province!" Qiao Wei exclaimed.

Qiao Xuan smiled and replied, "It's all thanks to the support and opportunities given by the Yuezheng Family. We are truly fortunate."

"This is such a great place. We will stay here for a few days and learn about the world!" Madame Qiao added with excitement.

The family chit-chatted and explored their surroundings, growing more fascinated by the minute.

Shao Junyan and Shao Qing, initially reserved, gradually loosened up and began to have fun in the garden, watching the fish in the pond from the railing.

Shao Sanlang and Yang Xiaoni were equally amazed and delighted by the mansion.

In the evening, Shao Yunduan arranged for a table of dishes to be delivered from a nearby restaurant. The whole family enjoyed a delicious meal together, engaging in lively conversation about their plans for sightseeing and entertainment. The atmosphere was joyful and animated.

Upon their arrival, Qiao Xuan wasted no time and immediately sent a letter to First Madame to inform her of their presence in the province.

The following morning, Qiao Xuan took the girls of the family and visited First Madame.

First Madame was overjoyed to see them all. She warmly welcomed them and made sure they felt comfortable.

During the visit, First Madame arranged for the girls to meet Madame Yuezheng. They exchanged pleasantries and had a pleasant conversation before returning to their respective residences.

In the past, First Madame had refrained from introducing Qiao Xuan to Madame Yuezheng, considering the scandal involving Ms. Mi Junior and her daughter. Madame Yuezheng had declined Qiao Xuan's visit at that time,

But circumstances had changed. With Shao Yunduan's status as a Provincial Champion, Madame Yuezheng had to receive his mother and wife with respect.

Therefore, Madame Yuezheng not only treated them with politeness but also prepared valuable gifts for the children.

Even Ms. Mi Junior dared not mock Ms. Fang in this new situation.

Unaware of Ms. Mi Junior and Madame Yuezheng's previous attitudes towards Qiao Xuan, believed that their friendly behavior was genuine. She praised the Yuezheng Family for their impeccable manners, in stark contrast to the Zhao Family.

Deep in thought, Qiao Xuan pondered the ancient belief that education and social status were highly valued. Having knowledge and a respectable name allowed one to escape being treated as low-class in society. Many people, driven by the benefits of achieving a higher rank, dedicated themselves to studying and obtaining such positions.

Upon returning to First Madame's residence, First Madame greeted them with a warm smile. "Ms. Fang, nieces, and nephews, please make yourselves at home. Don't feel restrained. I want you to know that I truly cherish Xuan. I have always regarded her as my own daughter. Let's strive to foster a harmonious relationship and be at ease with one another."

Everyone felt at ease and smiled, relieved by the welcoming atmosphere.

First Madame's straightforward personality resonated well with Ms. Fang, who was known for her open-mindedness. They engaged in pleasant and cheerful conversations, creating a more relaxed atmosphere compared to their time at Madame Yuezhengs residence.

Qiao Xuan and her family stayed for lunch before bidding farewell to First Madame. However, First Madame extended an invitation for them to spend the upcoming Double Ninth Day together. She mentioned arranging wagons for them to enjoy a half-day trip in the mountains. Delighted, Ms. Fang smiled and accepted the invitation.

Upon returning to their own house, First Madame sent a few individuals to deliver food and essential items. She reassured them that they could always seek assistance from her, emphasizing that it was preferable to obtain supplies from them rather than purchasing them in the market.

Grateful for the kind gesture, Ms. Fang expressed her appreciation and accepted the offer.

In the afternoon, Yuezheng Xiao eagerly joined in the task of unpacking and organizing, excitedly handling the snow fungus, lipsticks, and dried cassavas..

Qiao Xuan had a substantial amount of cassava powder, weighing 5KG, along with sun-dried cassavas. Yuezheng Xiao was impressed by the quantity and planned to send his men to fetch the remaining cassavas.

In addition to the cassavas, Qiao Xuan also presented taro balls and bubbles to the family. Although they had enjoyed these treats extensively at home, it was Yuezheng Xiao's first time trying them. Qiao Xuan even suggested sending some to First Madame and Madame Yuezheng.

The combination of taro balls, bubbles, sugar water, and a portion of milk created a delightful and chewy dessert, which would surely become a favorite among the general population.

Yuezheng Xiao was delighted with the discovery. Not only did it provide a source of income, but it also offered him a delicious food option.

Furthermore, the family was intrigued by the exotic fruits from the south. Dragon fruits and pineapples, sourced from Qiao Xuan's home, piqued their interest. Madame Yuezheng particularly enjoyed bananas and dragon fruits, while the rest of the family appreciated all the fruits on offer.

Yuezheng Xiao was amazed by Qiao Xuan and her familys ability to successfully grow fruits. Without any hesitation, he promptly assigned a few people to search for dragon fruit, papaya, sugarcane, banana, and pineapple seedlings, as per Qiao Xuan's request.

Dragon fruits and papayas were particularly favorable as they could be planted and grown at any time. If these fruits flourished, it would expand the variety of desserts available. They might even be able to reduce their dependence on selling southern fruits by half.

The future looked promising.

On the day Madame Qiao and her family arrived in the province, Qiao Xuan, Shao Yunduan, Ms. Fang, and Yang Xiaoni spent the entire day shopping. While Ms. Fang was not one to splurge, Shao Sanlang and Yang Xiaoni couldn't resist indulging themselves when they came across a wide array of delicious foods.

Ms. Fang felt a pang of concern seeing the expenses, but she reasoned that since they wouldn't visit the province often and the couple was using their own money, she didn't intervene to stop them from splurging.

Both Ms. Fang and Eldest Uncle were in awe of the bustling city, and spending an extra day there left them thoroughly satisfied with the experience.

The excitement continued once they returned to their accommodation.

For the next two days, Shao Yunduan and Qiao Xuan planned to explore the province with their family and celebrate the Double Ninth Day with the Yuezheng Family. Afterward, Shao Yunduan had some literary gatherings lined up where he would visit esteemed masters alongside Xie Jingrong.

Shao Yunduan hadn't had the opportunity to engage in practical discussions with his fellow peers since becoming the Provincial Champion.

Meanwhile, Qiao Xuan decided to inspect the land she had recently purchased.

With the autumn harvest completed, there was an abundance of available laborers. Qiao Xuan made the decision to hire them to begin sorting out the 1,000 mu of land.

Although they would have to wait until spring to cultivate bananas, sugarcane, and pineapples, they could start planting papayas, dragon fruits, tangerines, and pomelos right away.

In addition to these new crops, Qiao Xuan also transferred some lemon and fig trees from the village garden.

While the winter temperatures in the region wouldn't drop below 5 degrees Celsius, except for the mountain peaks, there was still a possibility of frost, although snowfall was typically minimal.

Before there happened one huge frost storm, and the fruits and crops were all damaged when that happened.

But this case wasn't frequent.

So Qiao Xuan decided to see if those fruits could still grow well after winter here, with her superpower as the protecting means..

As long as the plants managed to survive the winter this year, the following year wouldn't pose a problem either.

Rather than relying solely on supernatural powers, she sought assistance from Yuezheng Xiao to gather a significant amount of straw. This way, when the temperature dropped, she could cover the tree roots with straw to keep them warm. Additionally, she planned to create smoke in the vicinity to protect the fruit trees from frost damage.

Qiao Xuan had meticulously prepared for this situation.

A day prior to the Double Ninth Day, when Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan were exploring the city with their families, the First Madame received a letter from Madame Qiao.

In the letter, Madame Qiao acknowledged herself as Qiao Xuan's mother and expressed gratitude to the First Madame for taking care of him. The First Madame couldn't help but chuckle.

"Madame Qiao is quite an interesting character…"

Auntie Hua found this revelation equally surprising. She smiled and remarked, "l wonder if she's aware that Mrs. Shao and her entire family are already present in the province."

The First Madame entered a contemplative state.

Qiao Xuan had never mentioned anything about Madame Qiao's visit, and the

First Madame had displayed no interest in meeting her.

The Yuezheng Family held considerable influence and had no need to associate with a County Magistrate.

Madame Yuezheng, as the esteemed guest of a high-ranking official's wife, surpassed Madame Qiao in every aspect.

The First Madame had the choice to either receive her visit or decline it.

"Auntie, would you mind visiting Xuan and inquiring about her thoughts on the matter?"

Essentially, this meant that if Qiao Xuan desired any form of retribution, the

First Madame would support her.

Auntie Hua replied and personally went to speak with Qiao Xuan.

Qiao Xuan smiled and said, "l forgot to inform Auntie about this. My lineal mother did suggest that I visit Auntie together with her, but I chose not to and ignored her request. I never expected them to arrive so quickly…"

"Thank you for your concern, Auntie. It holds no significance for us. If Auntie wishes to meet them, she may do so. If she prefers not to, that's perfectly fine as well. I know what I need to do.'

Qiao Xuan had already thought about what to say to Madame Qiao when she inquired why they weren't traveling together.

Her intention was to demonstrate to Officer Qiao that they were not mere puppets controlled by his strings, obligated to obey his every command. If Officer Qiao couldn't tolerate it, Qiao Xuan secretly wished for a confrontation.

If Officer Qiao could endure it, then she would have to put in even more effort to strengthen their relationship.

Auntie Hua understood Qiao Xuan's point. She nodded and asked, "What will you say if she asks whether you're here?"

"Auntie, you can tell her whatever she wants to hear. Just make sure not to disclose our whereabouts or reveal our business dealings with Young Master Yuezheng," Qiao Xuan instructed Auntie Hua.

Auntie Hua comprehended the situation and nodded before taking her leave. In the guesthouse, Madame Qiao had mixed feelings upon hearing the response.

The First Madame provided a diplomatic answer, stating that they were occupied with numerous engagements on the Double Ninth Day and proposed visiting Madame Qiao the following day.

This effectively prevented them from spending the day with the Yuezheng Family.

Furthermore, while Madame Qiao mentioned Qiao Xuan, the First Madame made no mention of her in the reply, which surprised Madame Qiao.

Qiao Wei found this unsurprising and sneered, "That girl must be lying! If she truly had a good relationship with the First Madame, why wouldn't the First Madame mention her?"

The First Madame would have answered this question by stating that they never inquired about Qiao Xuan in the first place..

Madame Qiao, having received a response that only expressed gratitude for taking care of Qiao Xuan and nothing more, refrained from adding any additional information herself.

Madame Qiao pondered aloud, "But if she's lying, where did she acquire the funds for such expensive jewelry?"

Qiao Wei was at a loss for words.

They had never possessed anything valuable like those ornaments, yet they could discern that none of them were counterfeit.

"We'll find out when we meet the First Madame. Unfortunately, we won't be able to spend the festival with the Yuezheng Family!'

However, Qiao Wei found solace in the thought that Qiao Xuan must be in a similar situation to theirs.

Their objective had been to spend the day with the Yuezheng Family in order to forge a closer bond. Regrettably, that goal remained unfulfilled, leaving them feeling greatly disappointed.

On the day of the Double Ninth Festival, the First Madame and Yuezheng Xiao extended an invitation to the first section of the Shao Family to join them on a wagon ride outside the city.

Nis. Jin had made all the arrangements in the abbey early in the morning.

Surrounded by mountains and rivers, the abbey had been adorned with an abundance of specially cultivated chrysanthemums. Outside the abbey, wild chrysanthemums in various shades of light purple, yellow, and white blanketed the mountains and plains, creating a stunning and captivating sight in this autumn season.

Yuezheng Xiao took Shao Yunduan and his father for a tour outside, while the First Madame accompanied Ms. Fang, Qiao Xuan, and the other girls on a mountain excursion.

While mountains were a common sight in the countryside, the view here at the abbey was distinct and carefully chosen by the Yuezheng Family.

The mountain path had been well-maintained, with numerous flowers and trees planted for people to admire. Along the way, several pavilions provided resting spots. The highest pavilion on the mountain was spacious, where guests were served fruit snacks, cooked tea, and enjoyed their beverages. When viewed from a distance, the scene was truly magnificent.

The entire day passed joyfully, leaving everyone in high spirits.

The First Madame decided to escort them directly back home, and they all agreed to spend the night together.

The Yuezheng Family also had their own reunion on this day. When the First Madame, Old Master, and Yuezheng Xiao insisted that they join, Ms. Fang and her family couldn't refuse.

The Old Master and the First Madame were deeply grateful to Qiao Xuan for saving their lives, and with the two families engaged in business together, it was only fitting that they gathered for a festive dinner.

As the head of the family, the First Madame intended to address any misbehavior from the second section of the family during this special occasion.

Nis. Mi Junior wasn't foolish enough to cause trouble. She may not have been thrilled about the gathering, but she knew when to act accordingly.

Madame Yuezheng accepted the proposal, considering it was suggested by the first section of the family. Furthermore, Shao Yunduan held the title of

Provincial Champion and maintained a good relationship with Young Master Xie. Thus, it was advantageous for them to establish friendly ties with the Shao Family.

Ms. Mi Junior didn't dare to cause trouble, but she and her daughter were eager to witness an entertaining spectacle.

They believed that Shao Yunduan's title wouldn't make any significant difference. After all, they considered themselves a simple rural family with limited knowledge and experience.

Such grand feasts and extravagant gatherings were completely foreign to them. They were certain to become the subject of ridicule and mockery.

However, what Ms. Mi Junior and her daughter were unaware of was that Qiao Xuan possessed exceptional cooking skills and was well-versed in a wide variety of dishes. She had never been hesitant to share her culinary creations with her family, who had enjoyed a diverse range of delicacies.

While the county may have had limited ingredients, the province offered a wide selection. Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan always made sure to bring an abundance of ingredients back home during their visits..

As the sumptuous and expensive dishes were served on the table, they were indeed delicious, but not to the extent that the entire Shao Family abandoned their manners and devoured the food without restraint.

Contrarily, Ms. Fang had never been an arrogant individual, and she had instilled good values in her children.

Prior to their visit to the province, Ms. Fang had anticipated their trip to the Yuezheng Family and had asked Qiao Xuan to educate the family on proper etiquette in an affluent household. They were determined to learn and avoid any embarrassing situations.

Although Qiao Xuan's knowledge was limited, having attended numerous banquets with the First Madame, she had acquired some understanding along the way. Thus, she imparted this knowledge to her family accordingly.

Now, everything was put into practice.

No one exhibited any misbehavior.

Even Madame Yuezheng was pleasantly surprised. She had mentally prepared herself for any potential faux pas from this rural family.

But such concerns were unnecessary.

Even Madame Yuezheng couldn't help but admire the Shao Family, recognizing that they were genuinely kind-hearted and pleasant people.

The first section of the family had truly made wise choices in their friendships.

The dinner proceeded exceptionally well, with both guests and hosts thoroughly enjoying themselves. The atmosphere was lively and joyous.

In the evening, the First Madame insisted that Yuezheng Xiao accompany the Shao Family back home.

Ms. Fang initially intended to decline the offer, but the First Madame insisted, saying, "You are our guests, and that's how we treat our guests. Please don't be formal, Sister Fang."

Ms. Fang expressed her gratitude and accepted the kind gesture.

The following day, the First Madame even dispatched some of her staff to deliver two jars of wine, a basket of live crabs, and two baskets filled with fresh grapes and pomegranates to the Shao Family for their enjoyment.

Ms. Fang expressed her sincere gratitude, continuously praising Qiao Xuan for befriending such wonderful individuals. Through this connection, she successfully established a friendship with the First Madame and the kind-hearted Yuezheng Family.

During this time, Xie Jingrong and Yuezheng Xiao paid a visit to the Shao Family. With old friends gathered together, the gathering was filled with warmth and happiness.

Qiao Xuan, Taotao, and Yang Xiaoni decided to purchase additional ingredients from the nearby market and invited Xie Jingrong and Yuezheng Xiao to stay for lunch. They skillfully steamed the crabs and prepared various other delectable dishes.

Madame Qiao couldn't contain her excitement and eagerly took Qiao Kou and Qiao Wei to visit the Yuezheng Family. Concubine Du, on the other hand, was asked to remain at the hostel.

Although Concubine Du complained silently within her heart, she dared not voice her grievances or challenge Madame Qiao's decision. She knew better than to oppose Madame Qiao.

Meanwhile, the First Madame treated everyone with kindness and grace, not finding fault with anyone but displaying her impeccable manners.

But First Madame had no intention of introducing them to Madame Yuezheng.

While the First Madame treated them as guests, her hospitality was not entirely sincere. However, in the eyes of Madame Qiao and her two daughters, they were overwhelmed with excitement, feeling that the First Madame was showing them great warmth and affection.

Unaware of their empty flattery, the First Madame grew increasingly impatient.

She was on the verge of instructing Auntie Hua to find an excuse to politely decline their request when Madame Qiao suddenly inquired about Qiao Xuan.

"Xuan mentioned that she arrived in the province before us. She expressed her desire to pay her respects to you. Has she been here?"

First Madame smiled and nodded. "Yes, Xuan and Sister Fang have already been here. In fact, I invited them to join us for a tour outside the city, and we even shared a celebratory dinner together yesterday in honor of the Double

Ninth Festival..

"What? You invited them to spend the day together?" The three women's expressions instantly changed. Qiao Wei reacted the most fiercely, her anger bursting forth without any hesitation.

First Madame observed their reactions and sneered inwardly, perplexed by their distress. Why did they care so much about her treating Qiao Xuan kindly? Why were they reacting so miserably, especially Elder Miss Qiao? She appeared as though she had been struck.

First Madame couldn't comprehend it at all. It was true that the entire family disliked Qiao Xuan and had never treated her well. But she had openly invited Qiao Xuan and her family to visit, with no intention of hiding her actions. She smiled and explained, "l have always held great admiration for Xuan, and I genuinely like her. Her husband and my son have established a good relationship, so when they came for a visit, I invited them to join us for dinner to celebrate and enjoy each other's company."

Qiao Kou found satisfaction in Madame Qiao and Qiao Wei's displeasure.

However, upon hearing First Madame speak so highly of Qiao Xuan, she also felt annoyed. She smiled and inquired, "So, the Second Sister was here? Where are they staying? My sisters and I have missed her terribly."

Madame Qiao forced a smile and requested, "Please, do tell us."

She felt extremely irritated. However, she couldn't blame First Madame for inviting Qiao Xuan and her in-laws to dinner while excluding them. Madame Qiao wasn't in a position to voice her displeasure, nor did she dare to do so.

Before First Madame could respond, Qiao Wei interjected, "The Second Sister is always so selfish. She only cares about herself and not others. We discussed coming to the province together, but she arrived first without informing us. We don't even know where to find her.'

First Madame's expression faltered upon hearing Qiao Wei's words. She forced a fake smile and remarked, "l admire her strong-willed personality. She's a remarkable young woman, and I appreciate her assertiveness. Elder Miss Qiao, perhaps you have misunderstood her?"

Madame Qiao, quick to defend her daughters, interrupted Qiao Wei, saying, "They are close sisters and have always been carefree with each other. That's what Qiao Wei meant!"

First Madame smiled and nodded, saying, "Of course…"

Auntie Hua finally found an excuse and said, "First Madame, the housekeepers from the southern abbey are here waiting to see you. They have an urgent matter and need your attention before they leave, so…"

First Madame gave a regretful smile to Madame Qiao and said, "l apologize, but I must attend to this matter. Perhaps we can continue our conversation next time, Madame Qiao?"

Madame Qiao, accustomed to being treated with respect and courtesy due to her association with County Magistrate Qiao, felt a surge of irritation. It had been years since she had been dismissed as a guest. Maintaining the family's reputation was crucial in business circles.

Feeling her frustration mounting, she couldn't bear it any longer. She stood up, forced a smile, and bid farewell, "Very well, then. Goodbye!'

"Goodbye!'

First Madame also rose from her seat and saw them off with a smile. Maids quickly stepped forward and escorted them out of the premises..

Qiao Wei and Qiao Kou felt a mix of disappointment and annoyance. They had expected First Madame to be generous and offer them presents as well. After all, she had showered Qiao Xuan with precious gifts. Why were they being treated so differently?

They couldn't help but wonder why the Yuezheng Family didn't even bother to offer any presents during their first meeting. It seemed unfair and left them feeling overlooked.

Unbeknownst to them, First Madame had indeed prepared some gifts. However, upon hearing Qiao Wei speak ill of Qiao Xuan and Qiao Kou constantly indicating their annoyance towards her, First Madame's initial goodwill wavered. She was a perceptive person and understood that maintaining superficial connections was unnecessary.

Ultimately, she decided not to present them with any gifts. It was a subtle way of expressing her dissatisfaction and protecting Qiao Xuan from unfair treatment.

Madame Qiao, on the other hand, grew increasingly irritated by her encounter with First Madame. She couldn't fathom what was wrong with the Yuezheng Family. She was about to return to the capital with her husband, and she had no intention of cultivating any further relationship with them. Perhaps their family's business in the north wasn't doing as well as she had presumed.

Madame Qiao couldn't comprehend the arrogance displayed by the Yuezheng Family in treating an officer's wife so poorly. In her eyes, they were nothing more than a group of uncivilized and narrow-minded individuals lacking basic manners.

While she acknowledged that there was little she could do about the Yuezheng Family directly, she was determined to make Qiao Xuan suffer. Madame Qiao refused to let Qiao Xuan believe that her husband's newfound status made her invincible. As the girl's biological mother, Madame Qiao believed she had the authority to teach her a lesson, despite her marriage.

As Madame Qiao and her daughters departed from First Madame's residence, a realization struck her. First Madame had failed to provide them with the information regarding Qiao Xuan and her in-law's whereabouts. However, it was not feasible for her to turn back and inquire at that moment. Madame Qiao reluctantly let go of the thought, feeling even more disgruntled.

Just as she was leaving the mansion with her biological daughter and the concubine's daughter, they unexpectedly encountered Ms. Mi Junior.

Ms. Mi Junior initially didn't recognize Madame Qiao and her daughters, resulting in a frown on her face. However, the maid intervened and introduced both parties to each other.

Upon learning that Ms. Mi Junior was the Second Madame Yuezheng, Madame Qiao felt a surge of motivation and greeted her, inadvertently revealing her status as Qiao Xuan's biological mother. She wanted to make it clear that Qiao Xuan would never escape the influence of the Qiao Family.

Nis. Mi Junior's eyes lit up, and she greeted Madame Qiao with a smile, "Oh,

Mrs. Shao's lineal mother, greetings!'

"You are too kind, Second Mrs. Yuezheng." Madame Qiao felt even more irritated seeing Junior greet her for Qiao Xuan's sake.

Madame Qiao couldn't help but wonder if that wretched girl had managed to gather so many allies. She knew that First Madame didn't wish to keep her around, and Ms. Mi Junior's husband had sons of his own. It was a well-known fact that biological mothers and the children of concubines were rarely on good terms. Thus, Ms. Mi Junior saw an opportunity to cause trouble, leveraging her position as the Second Madame to spite Qiao Xuan's lineal mother.

"My Elder Sister-in-law must be too busy to receive you well. I am free. If you want, what about having tea with me? We can have some nice chats with each other too.'

Faced with Junior's warm, open arms, Madame Qiao and the two daughters were so surprised and glad. They were never going to miss this open opportunity. Madame Qiao accepted the invitation directly.

Therefore, the three women walked away with Junior.

But the maid who was supposed to lead them out could not do anything, but reported the situation to First Madame honestly.

First Madame was very surprised. But she did not mind. Instead, she smiled briefly, "My sister-in-law is very hospitable."

She was never up to any good. But that did not bother her..

She was up to no good. But that did not bother her.

Ms. Mi Junior's actions and desires were beyond First Madame's control, as she was an independent individual with her own motives. However, First Madame remained unconcerned about Ms. Mi Junior's tricks.

Madame Qiao and her two daughters were warmly received by Ms. Mi Junior and her family. They had pleasant conversations, and Yuezheng Ting, Qiao Kou, and Qiao Wei quickly formed a friendship. It was a surprising turn of events for Madame Qiao and her daughters, leaving them highly satisfied when they departed in the afternoon.

During their conversation, they found common ground in their dislike for Qiao Xuan, Shao Yunduan, and the Shao Family. Madame Qiao couldn't help but sneer as they left the Yuezheng Family, instructing the coachman to take them to the alleyway.

That damned girl had the audacity to buy a house in the province! Bah!

On that particular day, Xie Jingrong and Yuezheng Xiao paid a visit to Shao Yunduan. They spent half a day together and extended an invitation for a small gathering the next day before their departure. Madame Qiao and her daughters arrived immediately after Xie Jingrong and Yuezheng Xiao had left.

Qiao Xuan and her family had been exploring the city and enjoying various activities, such as attending flower shows and hiking. They decided to have a well-deserved rest at home in the coming days. As a result, Qiao Xuan, Ms. Fang, and the rest of the family were all present at home when Madame Qiao and her daughters arrived.

The gate housekeepers were previously employed by First Madame. She had even transferred their contracts to Qiao Xuan, so they now worked for her. They were responsible for taking care of the house in Qiao Xuan's absence.

Auntie Ling knocked forcefully on the door, and when the housekeeper opened it, he was greeted by Madame Qiao, her two daughters, two maids, and Auntie Ling. They all seemed to exude an air of intensity that made him feel slightly uneasy.

The housekeeper was taken aback by the unexpected visitors.

"Excuse me, who are you?" he asked, trying to regain his composure.

Auntie Ling put on a strained smile. "Yes, this is the residence of the Shao Family from Shaoding Village. We have come to visit."

The housekeeper nodded, still somewhat bewildered.

"Very well. Madame Qiao is the lineal mother of your Mrs. Shao. Please inform

her and ask her to come out and greet us," Auntie Ling instructed, her tone leaving no room for argument.

The housekeeper hesitated for a moment. He was unaware of the relationship between Madame Qiao and Mrs. Shao. However, without questioning further, he allowed them to enter and promptly informed his wife to relay the news to Mrs. Shao.

Madame Qiao observed the expansive yard with a mix of envy and annoyance, her resentment growing. She was determined to take out her frustrations on Qiao Xuan.

Upon hearing of their arrival, Qiao Xuan greeted the news with a smile. "l was just thinking about them. I didn't expect them to arrive so quickly."

Ms. Fang hesitated, concern evident on her face. "Qiao Xuan, they have come here so swiftly. What do you plan to do? This house has plenty of rooms. If you don't mind, we can accommodate them for the night."

Qiao Xuan understood her mother-in-law"s worries, aware that accommodating Madame Qiao and her daughters could strain their already delicate relationship.

"Don't worry, Mom," Qiao Xuan reassured her. "There's no need for them to stay overnight. 1 promise they won't want to."

"That's good to hear," Ms. Fang replied, relieved. She, too, had no desire for Madame Qiao and her daughters to spend the night in their home.

Feeling reassured by Qiao Xuan's words, Ms. Fang smiled warmly. "l will go and see what our guests want. Xiaoni, Taotao, Chunyu, Chunfen, let's all go and see them..

She was determined to support her daughter-in-law, ready to confront any bullying from her lineal mother.

With a sense of warmth in her heart, Qiao Xuan smiled confidently. "Alright, let's go and see what they want."

The group made their way to the front yard, where they were met with piercing gazes from Madame Qiao and her two daughters.

"Qiao Xuan, how dare you buy a house behind our backs? Explain yourself!"

Madame Qiao's voice was filled with anger.

Qiao Wei couldn't contain her frustration any longer and erupted in a furious shout. "Explain yourself, Qiao Xuan!"

Qiao Xuan raised an eyebrow, feigning surprise. "Explain? What for?"

"Hmph, you're speechless, aren't you? If it wasn't for Second Mrs. Yuezheng, we wouldn't have found out about this!" Qiao Wei's voice was filled with contempt.

Ms. Fang cleared her throat, displaying confusion. "Madame In-law, your daughter is speaking quite rudely. Why should we have to inform you about our house purchases?"

Qiao Wei.

Madame Qiao was stuck in words.

Indeed, the Shao Family had every right to purchase the house without informing the Qiao Family, as they didn't rely on them for financial support. The Qiao Family's furious rush forward seemed unreasonable.

Qiao Wei, determined to provoke a confrontation, sneered, "We're all here together, so why pretend? Qiao Xuan, did you pay for that house? Where did you get the money from?"

Qiao Xuan did buy the house and possessed the contract. However, Ms. Fang had never asked her about it or sought to claim ownership for herself. Being an honest person, she appeared somewhat hesitant.

Qiao Xuan spoke up, "Elder Sister, you've never been to the Shao Family, so how can you know their financial situation? The Shao Family purchased the house. Young Master Yuezheng and my husband have been friends for a long time, so it's only natural for him to assist when my husband wanted to buy a house like this.'

Qiao Wei seethed with anger and exclaimed, "Second Mrs. Yuezheng claimed that First Madame gave you this house!" Qiao Xuan responded calmly, "Oh, she lied."

Qiao Wei sneered, "That's impossible!"

"Why do you think so? If you want, you can bring Second Mrs. Yuezheng and First Madame here, and we can all discuss this together."

Qiao Wei glared at her fiercely.

She knew she would never be able to bring Second Mrs. Yuezheng or First Niadame here. Qiao Xuan was deliberately making things difficult for her!

It was all intentional!

"Alright, Wei," Madame Qiao understood the situation clearly. They knew something fishy was going on, but they lacked proof to support their claims.

Qiao Xuan and Ms. Fang exchanged arguments, but they couldn't find any inconsistencies in each other's statements.

"Mrs. In-law, why don't you invite us inside for some tea?"

Ms. Fang stepped aside and said, "Please come in."

Madame Qiao glanced at Qiao Xuan with a mix of disappointment and concern. "Didn't you say we were traveling together? Why did you leave on your own? Your father and I missed you!'

Qiao Xuan responded calmly, "Mom and Dad, Third Brother, Third

Sister-in-law, Taotao, and Qi were all eager to come here. I was so caught up in the excitement that I forgot to inform you. I apologize, Mother. I will talk to Father about this. He is understanding, and I'm sure he won't hold it against me.."