Chapter 391: Making Lanterns for Mid-Autumn

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

Wu Yaqing looked over with envy in her eyes, “Qingzhi, could you make one for me?” She had been struggling for a while but hadn’t managed to make one, feeling quite frustrated.

Chu Qingzhi took the bamboo strips from Wu Yaqing’s hands and asked her, “What would you like to make?”

Wu Yaqing eagerly replied, “I’d like a little rabbit.”

The bamboo strips seemed to come alive in Chu Qingzhi’s hands. She bent, folded, tied, and applied paper and paint, and soon, a lifelike little rabbit lantern was ready.

Chu Qingzhi handed the rabbit lantern to Wu Yaqing, “How’s this?”

“It’s wonderful,” Wu Yaqing said joyfully. “Qingzhi, can you teach me? 1 want to make a couple for my mother. She’s never had such an interesting Mid-Autumn Festival.”

Chu Qingzhi agreed with a smile, “Of course.”

Everyone gathered around to learn from Chu Qingzhi…

Grandpa Chu smiled as he worked, planning to make a ‘Wanfu’ lantern and later a lotus lantern for Granny Chu, her favorite.

Chu Rong glanced at the children. Did they not like the lanterns he made? Why weren’t they learning from him?

After watching Chu Qingzhi make one, Chu Xuhua went back to his seat to start making his own.

What should he make?

His gaze swept over Shen Ruyue…

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He had an idea.

Chu Xuhua’s craftsmanship was decent. He picked up a bamboo strip and slowly fashioned it into a frame. After pasting paper and painting it red, a moon-shaped lantern was formed.

He handed the red moon lantern to Shen Ruyue, saying shyly, “Ruyue, this lantern is for you.”

Shen Ruyue looked at the red moon lantern and smiled sweetly, whispering, “Xuhua, thank you.”

Chu Xuhua felt a sweet warmth in his heart. “As long as you like it.”

Seeing his elder brother make a lantern for Shen Ruyue, Chu Xujin also decided to make one for Ge Lihua. After watching Chu Qingzhi’s technique, he returned to his seat to start making his lantern.

His craftsmanship wasn’t as good as Chu Xuhua’s, and he even broke the bamboo strip twice in his clumsy attempts, feeling somewhat disheartened.

Ge Lihua, quick-witted and a fast learner, soon made a yellow pear lantern.

She made this lantern to commemorate her family.

Chu Xujin, seeing Ge Lihua make her own lantern, felt even more disheartened, and a sense of frustration began to build.

He was inferior to Lihua in many ways, and now he couldn’t even make a lantern for her. What use was he?

Then he started to get angry with himself…

While everyone was busy making lanterns, no one noticed his mood.

Jiang Zhaoyong, quite self-absorbed and direct, was sitting next to Chu Qingning. Seeing her preparing to make a lantern, he snatched the bamboo strip from her, “Your hands are delicate, don’t hurt them. Just tell me what kind of lantern you want, and 1’11 make it for you.”

His boastful words drew everyone’s attention.

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Chu Qingning, feeling embarrassed but also pleased, said, “I want a palace lantern.”

Jiang Zhaoyong was about to start when he suddenly stopped, “1 haven’t seen what a palace lantern looks like.”

Chu Xuyuan and Chu Xuyao, who held grudges against Jiang Zhaoyong, saw this as an opportunity to belittle Jiang Zhaoyong.

Chu Xuyuan mocked, “Big talk is cheap, now you can’t make it, right?”

Chu Xuyao followed up, “Acting all capable. Turns out, you are just boasting. Can’t even make a single lantern.”

Grandpa Chu and Chu Rong nudged them, indicating to them to stop.

Both boys huffed and looked provocatively at Jiang Zhaoyong, as if to say, “You can’t make it.”

Jiang Zhaoyong, cheerful and unbothered, turned to Chu Qingning with a smile, “I can’t make that one. Can you choose a simpler one?”

Chu Qingning was a bit disappointed, “Then make one you can.”

Jiang Zhaoyong, not wanting to disappoint her, thought for a moment and said, “How about this? 1’11 go to the county city to buy one for you.”

Everyone looked at him, thinking this was a decent solution.

Chu Qingning was surprised by Jiang Zhaoyong’s decision, feeling a small stir in her heart. Seeing him about to leave, she quickly stopped him, “Sit down!” n/ô/vel/b//jn dot c//om

Jiang Zhaoyong, not quite understanding her intent, asked, “Qingning, what’s wrong?”

Chu Qingning thought to herself, it’s just a lantern, why make someone run a trip for it? It’s not a necessity, “Just make a normal one, a round one.”

Jiang Zhaoyong disagreed, “That’s too ordinary. No, 1 have to make something special for you.”

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Chu Qingning didn’t know what to say.

Hearing Jiang Zhaoyong’s words, Grandpa Chu and Chu Rong finally realized something was amiss. This boy was here for their Fourth Daughter.

The two elders looked at Chu Qingning again. She seemed not to dislike Jiang Zhaoyong.

Did their Fourth Daughter know that Jiang Zhaoyong liked her?

Ah, they had been worrying about their Fourth Daughter’s marriage, and now someone suitable had been delivered to their doorstep. Zhaoyong was diligent, not afraid of hard work, had a government job, was good to Qingning, and was handsome. Not bad at all.

The elders gave their high approval.

Jiang Zhaoyong, unaware that he had already won the favor of the elders, would have been even more pleased if he knew.

Chu Qingning became curious and expectant, “Then what do you plan to make?”

Jiang Zhaoyong turned to Chu Qingning, looked at her for a while, and said, “I’ll make a flower lantern for you, based on the flower pattern of the hairpin you’re wearing.” It was a plum flower.

Chu Qingning smiled, “I’m looking forward to it.”

Jiang Zhaoyong confidently said, “Don’t worry, 1 won’t disappoint you this time.”

Chu Qingyue, sitting next to Chu Qingzhi, whispered, “Fifth Sister, I want to make a lantern to pray for blessings for Yuting tonight. What should 1 make?”

Chu Qingzhi immediately had a good idea, “A koi fish.”

Chu Qingyue’s eyes lit up, “Koi fish, that’s a great idea.” Saying so, she began making one.

Chu Qingzhi couldn’t help thinking of Tang Jinghong. What was he doing?

Thinking of Tang Jinghong, she picked up a bamboo strip and started making a lantern to give to Jinghong.

Chu Qingshuang sat on the other side of Chu Qingzhi, making a tangerine lantern, her favorite fruit.

Chu Xuyuan, Chu Qingyan, and Chu Xuyao were toying with the bamboo strips, still unclear what they were going to make.

At this moment, Ge Lihua finally noticed something was wrong with Chu Xujin. She asked, “Xujin, what’s wrong?”

Seeing Ge Lihua speak to him, Chu Xujin’s frustration vanished instantly, “I was just thinking about what to make.”

Ge Lihua asked with concern, “Have you decided yet?”

Chapter 392: Kirin Lantern

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

Chu Xujin shook his head and said, “I just feel like I’m not good at anything…” He felt discouraged. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

Ge Lihua put down the lantern in her hand and picked up a bamboo strip again. After hesitating for a moment, she asked, “Do you want to learn? Shall I teach you?”

“Yes, of course.” Chu Xujin was surprised, never expecting such a good thing. She immediately moved a chair next to Ge Lihua, picked up a bamboo stick, and started to learn seriously, with great dedication.

After about ten minutes, everyone stopped to watch Chu Qingzhi as she made the lantern. Their eyes were filled with astonishment, admiration, and disbelief…

Chu Qingzhi was currently crafting a kirin lantern.

The kirin’s body resembled that of a musk deer, with dragon scales, a sheep’s head, a round horn on top, wolf-like hooves, a tail resembling that of a dragon, and colorful fur. It stood at a height of approximately two meters.

Chu Qingzhi was in the process of crafting the kirin’s body, and she planned to make a two-meter-tall kirin to give to Tang Jinghong.

Everyone watched as Chu Qingzhi’s fingers moved rapidly, and with each motion, a new part of the kirin took shape. As they watched, a massive body gradually formed.

Wu Yaqing’s eyes were filled with curiosity as she asked, “Qingzhi, what are you making? This lantern is so big; it looks like a fierce beast, like a tiger or something.”

Chu Qingzhi continued working with her hands and replied, “It’s a kirin.”

Everyone immediately widened their eyes…

Wu Yaqing was shocked. “Qingzhi, the kirin is only a creature from legends. Do you know what it really looks like?”

She had seen it before. Her own Golden Feather Phoenix had once had a confrontation with a kirin, although they had ended up evenly matched. Chu Qingzhi replied, “No one knows exactly what it looks like.”

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Chu Junbao and several children from the village rushed to Chu Qingzhi’s house as usual. As they entered the courtyard, their eyes were immediately drawn to the enormous object in the yard. “Wow, Sister Qingzhi, the lantern you made is huge.”

Chu Qingyan started showing off. “Junbao, it was made by my fifth sister. Impressive, right?”

Chu Junbao nodded honestly, his eyes wide open. “Impressive, very impressive. Even the grandpa who specializes in making lanterns for the village can’t make one as impressive as Sister Qingzhi.”

Chu Qingyan gave Chu Junbao an approving look. “Well said.”

She walked over and boasted to all the children, “Each of you, say something nice about my fifth sister, and 1’11 give you a piece of mooncake.”

Chu Junbao was the first to speak loudly, “Sister Qingzhi is beautiful and capable, the most beautiful flower in our village.”

Chu Qingzhi was speechless.

How cliche!

The second child said, “Sister Qingzhi is kind and lovely, and she’s the best at healing and saving people.”

Chu Qingzhi was speechless.

It quite rhymed!

The eighth child, a five-year-old little guy, stuttered after everyone had finished their compliments, “Sister Qingzhi is the most… able to fly, very beautiful.”

Chu Qingzhi smiled; the child was quite cute.

Chu Qingyan kept her promise and immediately ran back home to get two mooncakes, cutting each one into four pieces, one for each child.

“Thank you.”

“Delicious.”

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The children enjoyed their mooncakes while standing in line to watch Chu Qingzhi make the lantern.

“Master…”

“Master…”

Yuan Hongjun and Bao Linjiang arrived with valuable gifts. They quickly entered the house to place their gifts and then came out to observe in the courtyard.

Yuan Hongjun handed a bamboo strip to Chu Qingzhi and asked, “Master, what are you making?”

Chu Xuyuan helped Chu Qingzhi answer, “A kirin.”

“A kirin?” Yuan Hongjun was surprised. “Isn’t that something from legends?” He looked at Chu Qingzhi and asked, “Master, do you know what it looks like?”

“Just imagine.” Chu Qingzhi replied casually.

Yuan Hongjun admired her. “Master, you’re amazing.”

Chu Qingzhi smiled. Her Golden Feather Phoenix had always been unhappy about her tie with the Kirin in the past. She would use this opportunity to avenge her mount.

The kirin liked tranquility and was secretive; it disliked being seen by others.

Now she had crafted it for everyone to see. If the kirin knew, it would surely be very angry.

The new house was by the roadside. The passersby became curious upon seeing the crowd gathered around. They too walked in to watch, intrigued by Chu Qingzhi’s rare craftsmanship. The villagers soon formed a tight circle around Chu Qingzhi.

Eventually, even the village elder was drawn over. Leaning on his cane and accompanied by his grandson, he entered the yard and asked, “What are you all doing?”

At the sound of the village elder’s voice, everyone promptly cleared a path for him…

The village elder, still using his cane, walked up to Chu Qingzhi. He paused, wiped his eyes in disbelief, and wondered what he was seeing.

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By this time, Chu Qingzhi had almost finished crafting the kirin, having completed its body, hooves, head, and was now working on the horns.

Seeing the village elder arrive, Chu Rong quickly offered his seat, saying, “Elder, please sit here.”

The village elder nodded at Chu Rong, sat down, and watched intently with his hands resting on his cane, his amazement growing by the second.

Everyone stopped their lantern-making to watch Chu Qingzhi.

Time slowly passed…

Chu Qingzhi completed the kirin’s body, head, horns, tail, and hooves, and then began the painstaking task of pasting paper. This was a major undertaking.

She used white paper, and after pasting, she colored it. The kirin’s body was multicolored, and incorrect coloring could easily make it look dirty. This was a true test of skill.

But for Chu Qingzhi, it was all quite simple.

With the colors applied, the kirin’s appearance became even more vivid, drawing gasps of admiration from everyone.

Next, she added dragon scales.

She layered several sheets of paper, cut them, and quickly created dragon scales. Chu Qingzhi’s sister, Chu Qingyue, a skilled tailor, took over the task of cutting the scales, finishing them swiftly and expertly.

Under the amazed gazes of the onlookers, the kirin slowly came to life…

“Is this a kirin?”

“If the legendary kirin looks like this, it’s truly majestic.”

“Qingzhi’s craftsmanship is unparalleled. Look at this kirin, it’s as if it’s alive, so lifelike.”

The crowd showered Chu Qingzhi with endless praise. The kirin was truly magnificent and from a distance, looked like a colorful kirin descending to earth.

The village elder clapped his hands in approval, exclaiming, “Excellent, truly excellent.”

“Fantastic!!!” echoed the crowd, clapping. They had never seen such a magnificent and imposing lantern. It was beautiful!

Chu Qingzhi’s grandfather puffed out his chest with pride. This was his granddaughter’s creation, something no one else could replicate.

Two carriages, one following the other, entered Chu Village and stopped at Chu Qingzhi’s house.

The people in the carriages were stunned by the crowd.. What major event had occurred?

393 The Village in Shock The villagers standing outside saw the carriage and quickly called out for Grandpa Chu.

Startled, Grandpa Chu hurried towards the courtyard gate, sizing up the newcomers. Their imposing presence suggested they were no ordinary folk. "May I ask…" he began.

Before he could finish, Tang Jinghong's personal guard respectfully said, "Elder, we are here on the general's orders to deliver a festival gift to your family."

The words 'the general' spread among the villagers…

Grandpa Chu was stunned, the word 'general' echoing in his mind. Had he heard wrong?

The villagers were equally dumbfounded. Were they hearing things? n/ô/vel/b//jn dot c//om

Silence fell over the surroundings, so quiet you could hear a pin drop.

Seeing everyone's dazed expressions, the guard thought, "Do they not know of our general's identity?"

Did he make a mistake?

But the general hadn't instructed him to hide his identity!

Chu Qingzhi approached, gently tugging at Grandpa Chu's sleeve, "Grandpa, they're waiting for you to speak."

Regaining his composure, Grandpa Chu cautiously asked, "The general you speak of, is it Tang Jinghong?"

Pride shone on the guard's face as he firmly replied, "Indeed, it is!"

Everyone's jaws dropped in shock. They hadn't misheard; it was the general, Tang Jinghong himself! General was a rank beyond their wildest dreams!

The villagers knew Tang Jinghong held a military post, but they never imagined it to be of such high stature. The highest among soldiers! How capable must one be to reach such a rank? What had Tang Jinghong done in the army to climb so high?

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The news left everyone in shock for a long time.

This revelation was so astounding that Grandpa Chu, unable to believe it, cautiously asked, "You're certain about this?"

The soldier understood how shocking it was to have a general in a village. He said patiently, "Our general is Tang Jinghong, a member of the Chu Village."

"Our village has produced a general!!!" The village elder emerged from the crowd, overwhelmed to the point of fainting.

"Elder, Elder…" Everyone frantically rushed to assist the fallen elder.

Grandpa Chu, overcome with emotion, fainted as well.

Chu Qingzhi quickly supported him, and with a gentle pat on his chest, revived him.

How excited must he be to faint!

Chu Rong hurried over to help Grandpa Chu, his heart racing with excitement at the news that his son-in-law was a general. "Father, try to calm down," he urged himself to do the same.

"I'm fine, I'm fine," Grandpa Chu reassured, hand on his chest, thrilled beyond words.

The Ning family's butler, along with servants, approached with a chest, "Elder, we are here on behalf of young master Ning Yuting to deliver a festival gift to your family."

Grandpa Chu hurriedly helped them up, "You're too kind, too kind. Please, come in, everyone."

The guards and Ning's servant followed Grandpa Chu inside with the chests.

Once inside the main hall, the guards and the steward presented the gift list to Grandpa Chu. "Here is the list. You can count it."

Being illiterate, Grandpa Chu quickly handed the lists to Chu Qingzhi and Chu Qingyue for verification.

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The guard and the servant opened their respective chests.

This scene drew everyone's attention. The sight of the gifts inside sparked whispered conversations.

"A general and a wealthy young master… What stroke of luck has befallen the Chu family?"

"Fortunes change. This is the most dramatic turnaround I've ever witnessed."

"Those who once looked down on the Chu family are surely feeling the sting now."

…

After verifying the gifts, if there were no issues, one would sign their name on the gift list. One copy was kept by the recipient, and the other was returned to the gift-giver for confirmation.

Chu Qingzhi elegantly signed her name and handed it back to the guard, "Thank you for your efforts. Please, stay for lunch."

Hungry, the guard accepted, "Thank you for the invitation."

Chu Qingzhi politely offered, "Please, have a seat. I'll bring some refreshments."

"Thank you," the guard bowed in gratitude.

Chu Qingyue also finished verifying the gift list and handed it to the butler, "Uncle Ning, please have a seat. I'll bring some tea."

It's common that butlers in large and wealthy households often share the surname of their masters.

The butler, addressed respectfully as 'Uncle Ning', felt honored and held a high regard for Chu Qingyue. Contrary to the stereotype of village girls being rude, the young lady his master favored was so well-mannered.

"Miss Qingyue, you're too kind."

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Chu Qingyue smiled warmly, "It's my duty."

News of Tang Jinghong being a general spread like wildfire through Chu village, bringing a constant stream of people over to express their well-wishes.

Granny Chu reacted much like Grandpa Chu, fainting in excitement.

In the midst of this joyful atmosphere, an unexpected visitor arrived at the Chu family.

A young servant approached the Chu family, looking around, "Shuiyun County, Chu village, the home of the divine doctor, is this the place?"

When Chu Xuyao saw this, he quickly walked over. "Who are you looking for?"

The young servant, looking clean and somewhat shy, asked, "Is this the home of the divine doctor?"

Chu Xuyao pondered and tentatively asked, "My fifth sister is an excellent doctor. Are you referring to her?"

The servant politely replied, "Could you ask her to come out? I'll know once I see her."

"Just wait here," Chu Xuyao, fearing the servant had urgent business with his sister, hurried off to find her.

Chu Qingzhi, curious, approached the servant, "Who are you looking for?"

"I'm a servant of Lin Yingmin, here to find the divine doctor," the servant replied, placing a box on the stone bench at the doorway. He then pulled out a painting from his sleeve and unfolded it, comparing the image with Chu Qingzhi.

After examining the painting, he handed it to Chu Qingzhi, "Miss, this was painted by my young master. Please take a look."

Chu Qingzhi studied the painting, which depicted a woman on horseback - unmistakably her. She frowned slightly, wondering why Lin Yingmin would paint her.

"What did your young master send you here for?"

The servant quickly handed her the box, "My master can't walk easily. He especially asked me to deliver this to you."

Chu Qingzhi opened the box, surprised to find a Mid-Autumn Festival gift, "How is your young master doing?"

The servant, not one for deceit, honestly replied, "Not well. When his leg ailment flares up, he suffers terribly. Just yesterday, after enduring the pain, his palms were covered in wounds. It's truly pitiable."

"Stay for a meal before you return. I'll find time to treat your master's leg ailment," Chu Qingzhi said kindly.

394 Stirring Up a Heated Discussion

The servant boy gratefully said, "Thank you, miss."

Chu Qingzhi led the servant boy into the house. Noticing his young age, she offered him some snacks like mooncakes, bread, and biscuits.

Yuan Hongjun and Bao Linjiang came over…

Yuan Hongjun asked, "Master, it seems this is Lin Yingmin's servant."

Chu Qingzhi nodded, "Indeed, he was sent by Lin Yingmin to deliver a festival gift to me."

"Why would he send you a Mid-Autumn festival gift? Weren't you two just acquaintances?" Yuan Hongjun frowned, wondering what Lin Yingmin was up to.

Chu Qingzhi was also puzzled, "I'm not sure either, but I plan to find time to treat his leg."

Ah, that's right. Previously, he and Little Abalone had planned to treat Lin Yingmin's legs, but he refused, insisting on Chu Qingzhi treating him. The gift was probably meant to persuade Chu Qingzhi to do so.

Yuan Hongjun understood Lin Yingmin's actions, "Master, when will you go?"

"I'll see how things go," Chu Qingzhi planned to go tonight, but she decided not to tell her two disciples. As a young lady visiting a man at night to treat his legs, they might not agree to it.

Yuan Hongjun said, "Master, we've prepared the medicine for treating Lin Yingmin's legs. Just let us know, and we'll bring it over."

Chu Qingzhi nodded. "Okay."

The sound of gongs and drums came from outside…

The Chu family hurriedly went outside, followed by villagers who had been admiring the Kyrin lantern in the yard.

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The magistrate, accompanied by constables and his secretary, arrived at Chu Village with gongs clearing the way and lively drum music, signaling good news.

Chu Qingzhi took the lead and bowed. "Greetings, Magistrate."

The magistrate hastened to help her up, smiling like a blooming flower, "Miss Chu, your rewards for your meritorious deeds in the Northern Border have arrived."

He took out the imperial edict and proclaimed loudly, "Hear the decree!"

Chu Qingzhi knelt on one knee, and as others saw her kneel, they too knelt down. The noisy scene instantly quieted, even the chattering children dared not speak.

The magistrate unfurled the edict and read aloud, "By imperial command, Chu Qingzhi, … for her significant contributions in quelling the turmoil in the Northern Border, is hereby awarded a pair of pearls from Nanhu, a set of jewelry, three jade hairpins, ten bolts of silk, and ten thousand taels of silver as a token of appreciation. Let this be known."

Chu Qingzhi responded, "I am grateful for His Majesty's bountiful reward," and then received the edict.

The edict would be kept in the village shrine, a supreme honor for Chu Village. The previous edict had already been placed there.

The constables brought in the rewards to Chu Qingzhi's home.

Chu Qingzhi politely offered, "Magistrate, you've come a long way. Would you care to join us for a simple meal before you leave?"

The magistrate declined with a smile, "No need for a meal, I should return home for the family reunion today."

He envied Chu Qingzhi's rewards. In his decades of service, he had never received such honors. But remembering that Chu Qingzhi was a resident of his county, he felt a sense of pride. No other magistrate could boast such an extraordinary citizen. This thought elevated his sense of superiority.

Chu Qingzhi smiled, "Then, allow me to escort you out, Your Honor."

"Okay."

The news of Chu Qingzhi being rewarded by the Emperor spread quickly, just like a storm. Villagers who had just left returned to congratulate the Chu family once more, making Chu family as lively as a theater.

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By noon, Chu family finally quieted down, but the excitement lingered. First, the revelation of Tang Jinghong being a general had them reeling, and now Chu Qingzhi's rewards only added to their joy.

…

The villagers eagerly discussed Chu Qingzhi's rewards.

"Chu's family is really lucky, one happy event after another."

"Why can't my own children be as capable?"

"Someone like Qingzhi is rare, we're lucky to be her fellow villagers. As for our children, well, we never dared to dream of them reaching that high."

"Haha, I agree. However, the amount of rewards one receives depends on their abilities, and Qingzhi has earned it through her own efforts."

"That's right, Qingzhi has achieved things that most people can't. She has contributed to the country and the people, and the rewards she receives are well-deserved."

"We wouldn't even dare to go to the capital, let alone the distant Northern border. Going there and achieving merits is out of the question."

…

The matter of Qingzhi receiving rewards sparked discussions in the village, and almost everyone was talking about it.

These discussions also reached the Tang Shan's family of three.

Tang Shan regretted it deeply, and he drank one glass of wine after another, feeling a pang of pain in his heart.

If he had known that his son would become a general, he would have definitely supported him. Instead, he had driven him away with his own hands. How could he be so foolish?

If he hadn't driven Tang Jinghong out of the house, he would have had a general as a son, and Qingzhi would have married into the Tang family too. So many rewards, ten thousand taels of silver, and pearls.

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Pearls were rare treasures, and most of them found in the Daling Dynasty were tributes to the Imperial Court, each one extremely precious.

Tang Dengping complained, "Dad, why didn't Tang Jinghong say he was a general when he came back?"

Tang Shan slapped Tang Dengping, "He's your older brother. Who allowed you to address him by name?"

Tang Dengping had never been slapped before, and this slap made him cry, "Boohoo…"

Zhang Xiuqin walked into the room and protected Tang Dengping, "What's going on? Regretting now? The eldest son is a general, and the younger son is just like a weed?"

Tang Shan was annoyed, and after drinking a few glasses of wine, he was emboldened and gave Zhang Xiuqin a slap too, "It's because of your mistreatment of him, scolding him, and making things difficult for him. It's all because of you, Zhang Xiuqin, it's all your fault!"

Zhang Xiuqin couldn't refute this, and she also regretted it deeply, "I didn't know that Tang Jinghong was a general when he returned, and he didn't say anything!"

Tang Shan smashed the wine glass to the ground, pointed at Zhang Xiuqin's nose, and scolded her, "Even if you didn't know, he's still my son. You've been scolding him and making things difficult for him, Zhang Xiuqin, all your fault!"

Zhang Xiuqin was carried away by excitement and shouted, "Tang Shan, don't forget that you were the one who chased him away."

At the mention of this, Tang Shan felt so regretful that he wanted to vomit blood. Why was he so muddle-headed back then? Why didn't he stop Zhang Xiuqin when she scolded her son?

Tang Shan was filled with regret. "Zhang Xiuqin, get lost. Get lost. I'm going to divorce you!"

Zhang Xiuqin's face was filled with disbelief as she screamed, "Tang Shan, what did you say? Say it again!"

Tang Shan glared at Zhang Xiuqin. The more he looked at this old face, the more he disliked it. "Get lost!!"

Tang Dengping was terrified. Ignoring the pain on his face, he ran over and knelt in front of Tang Shan, begging, "Father, don't chase Mother away. If Mother leaves, this family will fall apart. Father…"

"You get lost too!" After Tang Shan finished scolding, he picked up the wine pot and drank it. At the same time, he walked out of the courtyard. If he was drunk, he would not regret it…

Tang Dengping trembled in fear. "Mother, what should we do now?" n/ô/vel/b//in dot c//om

Zhang Xiuqin did not dare to leave this house. Otherwise, she would be homeless. She said calmly, "Your father was just saying things in a drunken state. It's not true."

Tang Dengping looked in the direction where Tang Shan had left, hoping that his dad was just speaking out of anger. He didn't want to be like Tang Jinghong, without a mother.

Zhang Xiuqin fell to the ground. She could not understand how things had turned out like this.

395 Protective of His Wife

Xu Jizhou's pain had finally taken a hike. Eagerly awaiting a visit, his face lit up like a Christmas tree at the sound of footsteps. But, alas, it was just his mom, not the much-anticipated Qingning.

Mrs. Xu did not notice the change in her son. She brought the medicine bowl to Xu Jizhou and said gently, "Jizhou, drink the medicine."

"Hey, Mom," Jizhou mumbled, masking his disappointment like a bad actor in a soap opera. "Where's Qingning?"

"Oh, she's swamped with chores," his mother said, recalling the chaos at Qingning's house. She thought about the prospect of Jizhou marrying into Qingning's family, but let's face it, Qingning wasn't exactly Jizhou's biggest fan.

The second daughter of the Chu family was about to marry the young master of the rich family. The fifth daughter of the Chu family was going to marry a general. If her son could marry Chu Qingning, his future would be limitless. However, Chu Qingning did not like her son at all. Sigh, what a pity.

She did not intend to tell Xu Jizhou these words for fear of hurting him.

Changing the subject, Jizhou asked, "So, what's Qingning up to?"

"Playing MasterChef at home. It's like Thanksgiving over there," she replied.

Jizhou just nodded and downed his medicine, plotting to visit Qingning later when he felt less like a zombie.

…

Meanwhile, Jiang Zhaoyong caught up to Qingning. "Where are you off to with those mooncakes?"

"They're for a sick guy who can't go home," Qingning replied, pointing at the old house.

Chu Qingzhi had always taken good care of the patients at home. She was a very responsible girl.

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Jiang Zhaoyong didn't want to let Chu Qingning go. "Let me guess, Xu Jizhou?"

"Yeah, what's the big deal?" she wondered.

"Just don't go. I'll play the delivery guy," Jiang Zhaoyong insisted, grabbing the mooncakes.

Qingning, slightly baffled, watched him walk away. 'Why's he acting like Jizhou's personal bodyguard?'

…

Jiang Zhaoyong, now with the mooncakes, decided, "No way I'm feeding these to Jizhou."

He was about to throw the mooncakes into the bush, but when he raised his hand, he put it down again. It was a pity to throw away such delicious mooncakes. He could not waste food for nothing.

He looked around. There was a cornstalk pile nearby. He walked over, took out the mooncakes, and ate them all.

It would be great to have it all to himself. Why did he have to give it to Xu Jizhou?

"Burp…" Jiang Zhaoyong burped and walked towards the Chu family's house in satisfaction.

…

Back at the Chu house, it was dinner time. The elders and guests gathered around, enjoying a feast prepared by Grandma Chu and Li Qingyu. It was a grand spread, and everyone was having a blast. Butler Ning complimented Grandma Chu's culinary skills, and she humbly accepted the praise, delighted to have guests from the capital.

Grandma Chu greeted, "Everyone, take a seat. There's no need to stand on ceremony. Eat as much as you want."

Chu Xujin brought over some beer to pour for everyone, saying, "Uncle Ning, brothers, you've come from afar and must be tired. This is beer brewed by my family, please try it."

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This was something fresh, and everyone's eyes lit up with anticipation.

The beer was chilled and tasted even better.

Butler Ning, a man who enjoyed drinks and food, immediately took a sip and found it to his liking. "Delicious! How is it brewed? It's perfect with grilled dishes."

Chu Qingzhi smiled, thinking to herself, another foodie.

Chu Xuhua smiled, "It's brewed from barley. Uncle Ning, feel free to drink as much as you like, we have plenty more at home."

After another sip, Butler Ning said with a smile, "Then I won't be polite."

This trip was worthwhile, especially for such a rare treat.

Two guards and two servants also enjoyed the beer, finding it just right for their taste, slightly intoxicating but not too strong.

One of the guards asked, "Will this beer be sold in the capital city?"

Chu Xuhua, who had a general plan for their family business, replied, "Yes, but not until next year."

The guard, finishing his bowl of beer in one gulp, said cheerfully, "Let me know when it's available, and I'll be sure to support your business."

Chu Xuhua nodded with a smile, "Sure, thank you in advance."

"No need to be polite, brother," the guard replied.

Everyone enjoyed the drinks and dishes in a harmonious atmosphere.

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…

After the meal, Li Qingyu immediately prepared return gifts, and the guards and Butler Ning's people left with the gifts.

Since it was a major festival, they wanted to return home to spend time with their families. Leaving early meant they might still make it home for dinner.

Lin Yingmin's servant also left, as the young master was still waiting for his return.

Chu Xujin and Ge Lihua left for the county office, as the people caught the previous day hadn't been fully interrogated yet.

Chu Qingzhi, along with Chu Qingning, Yuan Hongjun, and Bao Linjiang, went to the military camp. They had acquired the medicinal herbs and planned to process the Snow Lotus.

In the military camp, Yuan Hongjun and Bao Linjiang had a tent dedicated to medical research, which was very convenient for refining medicine.

Jiang Zhaoyong specially went to tell Xu Jizhou that Chu Qingning had left the house. Then, in a good mood, he returned to the school.

He was determined to practice the guqin and become a refined person… The Emperor had said that if he didn't learn anything, he would have to stay in the school until he died. It was a frightening decree to him!

…

Fengxin County · Lin Family.

The servant handed a box to Lin Yingmin, whispering, "Young Master, this is the return gift from Miss Chu."

Upon hearing this, Lin Yingmin immediately took the box. Inside were mooncakes and several foods he had never seen before.

He looked at them curiously for a while, then asked with anticipation, "Did you find out her name?"

The servant replied, "Her name is Chu Qingzhi, a famous doctor known far and wide. Recently, she was honored by the Emperor for assisting General Tang in quelling the northern border unrest…"

In this era, there was something called the Imperial Gazette, where major court news was published and distributed nationwide, serving as the most authoritative source of information for the people of Daling.

The more Lin Yingmin heard, the more delighted he became. "Chu Qingzhi," he mused, admiring the beautiful name and her dedication to the country and its people.

Suddenly, Lin Yingmin clenched the corner of his robe, asking tentatively, "Did… Chu Qingzhi say anything else to you?"

The servant glanced at Lin Yingmin and said, "She mentioned she would find time to treat your legs."

396 Differential Treatment

Lin Yingmin was thoroughly excited, "Really? Did she say that?" n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

The servant sighed inwardly, noting his master's obvious special regard for Miss Chu. However, with Miss Chu already betrothed, he was destined to be disappointed.

He opened his mouth, wanting to convey this, but the words died on his lips. It seemed too cruel to shatter his master's rare smile.

"Master, Miss Chu told me herself," he finally said.

Lin Yingmin's heart raced with excitement. "I can finally see her again."

The servant lowered his head, finding it harder to speak the truth.

First Madam Lin, the family matriarch, entered with a gentle smile, appearing amiable. "Yingmin, what brings you such joy?"

Lin Yingmin, unguarded towards First Madam Lin, shared everything…

First Madam Lin maintained her smile, but her hidden hand clenched her sleeve, her heart bursting with hatred. Wanting to heal your legs? Impossible.

"Yingmin, it's not that I want to stop you, but I suspect that they're likely fraudsters," First Madam Lin said patiently, determined to thwart this matter.

Hearing this, the servant bowed even lower. He would have believed First Madam Lin if he hadn't seen Miss Chu Qingzhi himself. A lady like her wouldn't stoop to deceit.

Lin Yingmin trusted First Madam very much. After hearing First Madam's words and thinking about what the servant said, he didn't know who to believe for a moment.

After a while, he thought of a solution.

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"First Madam, let's try. If she can't help me stand, I won't pay her. What do you think?"

This was his only hope. He had to seize it. Miss Chu, as long as you come to treat my legs, I will give you the consultation fee. What I said just now was just a temporary measure.

Seeing that Lin Yingmin seemed to have made up his mind, First Madam Lin stopped persuading him. However, an even more vicious plan began to brew.

"Alright, let's do as you say," First Madam Lin said affectionately, as if truly caring for Lin Yingmin.

"Thank you, First Madam," Lin Yingmin expressed gratefully.

Madam Lin smiled, "Rest now. I have other matters to attend to."

"Take care, First Madam," Lin Yingmin responded respectfully.

…

After Madam Lin left Lin Yingmin's residence, she immediately summoned her trusted aide, instructing him to add a certain herb to Lin Yingmin's medicine to induce unconsciousness.

Without consciousness, he would surely forget about curing his legs.

The herb would weaken him day by day in his sleep, eventually leading to his quiet demise.

First Madam Lin smirked sinisterly as she returned to her courtyard.

…

At the outskirts of the capital, in the military camp…

Yuan Hongjun led Chu Qingzhi into the tent, "Master, this is where Little Abalone and I usually prepare medicines."

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Chu Qingzhi surveyed the spacious area and noticed the complete and high-quality medical equipment.

Chu Qingning couldn't help but admire, "This setup is amazing."

Yuan Hongjun said, "If you like, you can have a similar setup in the future. We'll help you then."

Chu Qingning smiled and nodded. "Okay."

Little Jun and Little Lin ran in. When they saw Chu Qingzhi, they were extremely excited and actually rolled on the ground. They were extremely cute.

It had been a while since Chu Qingzhi had seen the tigers. They had grown from cubs to adolescents in a few months.

She knelt and stroked their heads, and they joyfully rubbed against her palm.

Bao Linjiang, watching the affectionate tigers, expressed envy and disbelief, "Master, they never let others touch them, but with you, they're so happy. It's really unfair."

"Can't you touch them?" Chu Qingzhi asked with a smile.

Bao Linjiang puffed his cheeks, "I can, but only a few times. Any more and they run away. White tigers are proud creatures. Being allowed to touch them is already a privilege."

Yuan Hongjun teased, "You're not a child anymore. Why play with tigers?"

Bao Linjiang rolled his eyes at Yuan Hongjun. "Who wanted to hug the tiger to sleep a few days ago."

Yuan Hongjun would never admit such an embarrassing thing. "You made it up. Enough nonsense. let's prepare the medicine."

Chu Qingzhi brought a basket filled with herbs, including snow lotus, which thrived in high mountains. Without the nourishment of her spiritual energy, they would have wilted.

As soon as the snow lotus wilted, the medicinal effect decreased sharply.

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"The medicine I'm preparing today is called 'Revival Pill,' with two main effects," she explained while sorting the herbs.

"One is to nourish the body. Taking one pill can relieve all kinds of injuries, internal and external. With two pills, you'll fully recover."

"The other is for detoxification, effective against any poison. One pill protects the heart, and two can completely detoxify."

She had specially prepared this for Tang Jinghong, who had once been critically ill due to overwork. Though much improved, he hadn't fully recovered yet.

…

Chu Qingzhi's soft voice spread gently throughout the tent, enlightening her disciples with her knowledge.

Although Chu Qingning struggled to understand everything due to her short training in medicine, Yuan Hongjun and Bao Linjiang often had moments of clarity, thanks to their years of experience.

…

A soldier approached Fang Zerong to curry favor, "Doctor Fang, Miss Chu has arrived at the camp and is in the tent with the two young doctors."

Fang Zerong stood excitedly, "When did she arrive? Why didn't anyone inform me?"

The soldier hastily replied, "She just arrived, and I came to tell you as soon as she did."

"Thank you for this," Fang Zerong said before rushing out of his tent.

Arriving at Yuan Hongjun's tent, he could clearly hear Chu Qingzhi's voice and was overjoyed, "Miss Chu."

Chu Qingzhi emerged, "Dr. Fang, what brings you here?"

Fang Zerong spoke excitedly, "I heard you were here and came to see you."

"Thank you for making the trip," Chu Qingzhi said, then offered, "I'm teaching my disciples to prepare medicine. Would you like to join and offer some guidance to them?"

Fang Zerong eagerly responded, "I wouldn't dare to give guidance, but I would love to hear yours."

Chu Qingzhi smiled, "Please, Dr. Fang."

Fang Zerong expressed heartfelt gratitude, "Thank you, Miss Chu."

Chapter 397: Retribution

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

Shuiyun County, Shen’s Pastry Shop.

A raucous crowd had gathered outside the pastry shop, loudly demanding refunds.

“Give us our money back!” they yelled.

“These mooncakes you sold us, are they even fit for human consumption? They’re covered with mildew – how long have they been sitting around?”

“Exactly! We can handle a bad taste, but inedible? Do you even have a conscience?”

Inside, the shopkeeper was sweating bullets. Hiding initially, he finally decided to confront the situation and sent an employee to inform First Madam Shen of the debacle. Wiping his sweaty forehead with his sleeve, he emerged with a stern face and barked, “Who allowed you to cause a scene here? Scram, or I’m calling the authorities!”

The crowd wasn’t deterred. “Go ahead, call them! We’d love for the magistrate to see your shady business practices.”

“We paid a premium for these mooncakes and they’re inedible. If you don’t refund us, we’re not leaving!”

“I’m not leaving either. You have to give me an explanation today.”

The shopkeeper, feeling cowardly inside but putting on a tough exterior, retorted, “Trying to scam us for money, are you? Why aren’t others asking for refunds, just you lot?”

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“Others are others. We bought our mooncakes from you and you owe us an explanation.”

The shopkeeper argued back, “You’re being unreasonable. Who knows where you bought those mooncakes? We’re not the only shop selling them in town.”

“We’re not heartless like you. Besides, these mooncakes have your shop’s mark on them. It’s obvious!”

The shopkeeper, reluctant to admit fault and fearing the financial loss, hesitated. Just then, another group joined in.

“The mooncakes are moldy and inedible refund!”

“Right, refund! The mold covered the entire cake. It’s expensive and inedible!”

“Refund! Refund!”

The crowd grew more agitated, unanimously demanding their money back.

The shopkeeper, stubbornly denying responsibility, yelled, “Our mooncakes are always perfect. It’s impossible for them to be moldy!”

One customer challenged him, “Eat our mooncakes, and we won’t ask for a refund.”

Pushing a moldy mooncake into the shopkeeper’s hand, they shouted, “Eat it, eat it!”

“Eat the mooncake!” the crowd roared again.

Their voices grew louder, echoing down the street and beyond.

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Meanwhile, First Madam Shen, already ill, fainted upon hearing the news about the mooncakes.

Han Xinyu rushed to call a doctor and to summon Shen’s second son to deal with the shop matter.

Old Master Shen, delighted to hear of First Madam Shen’s fainting, hurried to see her. First Madam Shen mistook his concern for care, but his next words were a gut punch, “Did you have a stroke from anger?”

Before First Madam Shen could say a word, rage surged to her head, and she indeed suffered a stroke.

Old Master Shen, seeing her like this, was overjoyed, “You’re really paralyzed?”

First Madam Shen, unable to move or speak, glared at him furiously.

Old Master Shen clapped his hands joyfully, “Excellent!” He called for the maids, “Clean up the most remote courtyard and move First Madam there.”

Old Master Shen, seeing that the maids were moving, commanded, “Do it now, or I’ll sell you off.”

The maids, frightened, complied immediately.

Old Master Shen, sitting by First Madam Shen, said, “Do you know how long I’ve waited for this day?”

First Madam Shen stared at Old Master Shen. She didn’t expect Old Master Shen to hate her so much. She had always worked hard for this family, but in the end, she was repaid with hatred. She couldn’t help but feel sad.

Master Shen understood what Madam Shen was thinking. “You must think you’ve always cared for this family. Why am 1 doing this to you?”

He was lost in his memories. “In the beginning, 1 didn’t want to marry you. 1 wanted to marry my cousin. But in order to marry me, you pressured my family and even got someone to destroy my cousin. My cousin committed suicide because of that. She was only sixteen years old at that time. You’re so vicious.”

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He continued, “You had my eldest son drowned, didn’t you?”

He listed her crimes, turning First Madam Shen pale with horror.

Han Xinyu reported at the door, “Madam, the doctor has arrived.”

Old Master Shen glanced at First Madam Shen, “Tell the doctor she’s fine. Send him away.”

Han Xinyu hesitated and did not move.

Old Master Shen sneered. “I’ll arrange for First Madam to go to the side courtyard to recuperate later. You will go with her.”

Han Xinyu’s expression changed and she immediately knelt down. “Master, please show mercy. I’ll listen to you in the future.”

Old Master Shen firmly said, “Then show the doctor out.”

Han Xinyu’s heart skipped a beat. She quickly said, “Yes, Master.”

Despair filled Madam Shen’s eyes – she couldn’t end like this!

Eventually, First Madam Shen was moved to the desolate courtyard, cared for by an old maid. She spent her last days in despair, abandoned by her sons.

Meanwhile, Han Xinyu informed Shen’s second son of the shop’s trouble. He hurried there.

At the shop, the shopkeeper, cornered and desperate, opened a mooncake package. The smell of mold hit him instantly. The mooncake was covered in mold spots.

“Eat the mooncake!” the crowd roared again.

The shopkeeper, trembling, tried to eat but couldn’t stomach the mold. Frustrated, he threw the mooncake, “This isn’t from our shop!”

“Beat him up, beat him up!”

The crowd, enraged, pounced and gave the shopkeeper a good thrashing. Shen’s second son, witnessing the scene, ran for his life. n/ô/vel/b//in dot c//om

And so, the Shen Family Pastry Shop closed its doors, leading to the gradual downfall of the Shen family’s other businesses, one by one…

Chapter 398: Ugly and Beautiful

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

In the outskirts of Jing, a tent received an unexpected visitor. An eagle flew in, clutching a letter in its beak.

Chu Qingzhi caught the letter, her lips curling into a smile as she read. The letter detailed a series of mishaps that had befallen the Shen family. Now that they were no longer a threat, she couldn’t help feeling pleased.

She had bribed a servant in the Shen family to keep an eye on things. Surprisingly, he had proven himself quite useful, delivering this good news so swiftly.

The shopkeepers of Hongyan and Fuyuan restaurants, having heard of the Shen family’s downfall, breathed sighs of relief. The next day, they confidently brought their families back home, their trust in Chu Qingzhi solidifying even further.

Under the deep blue canopy of the sky, a full moon hung in the profound night, illuminating countless households in its silvery glow, creating a beautiful Mid-Autumn night.

After dinner, it was time for the Mid-Autumn Moon worship ceremony.

Chu Rong set up a table in the yard, using it as an altar. Grandma Chu, Li Qingyu, Chu Qingyue, and Chu Qingning brought plates with mooncakes, apples, dates, plums, and grapes, placing them on the altar as offerings.

This custom had been carried on for hundreds of years. Now, every household in Dating was preparing to worship the moon, praying for the Moon Goddess’s blessings.

Chu Qingzhi watched the scene, thinking to herself that the Moon Goddess they were worshiping was probably sound asleep in the Heavenly Palace, unable to hear their prayers.

Grandpa Chu led the worship ceremony, followed by Granny Chu and the rest of the family, including Chu Qingzhi.

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When in Rome, do as the Romans do.

Wu Yaqing and Ge Lihua also joined in the worship, praying fervently and appearing extremely devout.

Jiang Zhaoyong took the opportunity to join in as well. The elders of the Chu family were quite fond of him, and he soon became a frequent visitor at their home, quite content with his life.

Chu Xuyuan and Chu Xuyao were displeased. The guy had some nerve – he brought gifts, dined as if it was his house, and now even joined the Moon worship, which was supposed to be a family-only affair!

If Jiang Zhaoyong could hear their thoughts, he’d probably say, “Chasing a girl isn’t easy. Gotta keep a close eye on her, or she might get snatched away by someone else.”

“Sister Qingzhi, when are you going to light the lantern?” Chu Junbao, leading a group of children, came to visit Chu Qingzhi’s home and gathered around the Kirin lantern.

“Soon,” Chu Qingzhi replied, feeling like she had suddenly entered a kindergarten. All thirty-four children from the village had come.

Before long, some village youths also arrived at Chu Qingzhi’s home, curious to see the Kyrin lantern being released. n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

Seeing that everyone wanted to see it, Chu Qingzhi thought for a moment and flew to the roof with the Kirin lamp. She lit it on the roof.

After it was lit, the outline of the Kirin Lamp became even clearer. It emitted a five-colored light. Looking up from the bottom, it looked like the Kylin was really going to fly into the sky.

“So beautiful!”

“The Kylin lantern looks amazing.”

“I want to learn how to make one too. 1’11 make one for next year’s Mid-Autumn Festival.”

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The children clapped and cheered, thrilled by the sight.

Everyone watched intently, unanimously agreeing that the Kylin lantern deserved to be ranked first among all lanterns. They admired Chu Qingzhi’s skills – she seemed to excel at everything.

Chu Qingzhi cast a protective layer around the Kylin lantern. It needed to be preserved until Jinghong returned to the village, so he could see it with his own eyes.

After admiring the Kylin lantern, everyone returned home to light their own lanterns. Every household in the village had made a lantern, but the quality differed.

Grandpa Chu presented a lotus lantern to Granny Chu, “1 made this especially for you. Light it and hang it under the eaves. The Lantern God will bless you.”

“Okay.” Granny Chu felt extremely happy. She took the lamp and lit the candles inside. She hung it on the hook under the roof with a clothes pole.

She took two steps back to take a look and praised, “Old man, your craftsmanship is getting better. It looks good.”

“I’ll make you an even better one next year,” Grandpa Chu replied with a smile, then asked Granny Chu to help hang his ‘Wanfu’ lantern as well.

After they hung up, it was Chu Rong and Li Qingyu’s turn. Chu Rong made a big cat lamp for Li Qingyu. It was a yellow and orange cat. It was chubby and had ears. It was especially cute. “This year is better than last year, right?”

Li Qingyu was not stingy with her praise. “Your craftsmanship has always been good. This year is even better.”

Chu Rong, who was simple and honest, smiled. He was very happy. “I’ll get you a better one next year.”

Li Qingyu held the big cat lamp and looked at Chu Rong happily. “Yes.”

Chu Rong’s lantern was red and looked especially festive. It hung under the roof and stole everyone’s attention.

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After the elders finished, it was the younger generation’s turn to hang their lanterns.

Everyone had already lit their lanterns, now they were hanging them up.

Jiang Zhaoyong sneakily hung his plum flower lantern next to Chu Qingning’s. That morning, he had said he would make a plum flower lantern for her. The first one wasn’t very good, so he kept it for himself, but the second one turned out much better, which he gave to her.

Their lamps hung together, swaying in the night wind. One was ugly, and the other was beautiful. It was unique.

Ge Lihua hung her pear lantern and silently prayed for blessings.

Chu Xujin tilted his head and looked at Ge Lihua. For some reason, he felt that she was very sad and weak. He wanted to hug the girl beside him and comfort her.

Wu Yaqing hung up her little rabbit lamp. It was a cute little rabbit.

She had set up a total of ten little rabbit lamps. Once she was done, she sent them back to An Huai Kingdom. At the quickest, her mother would be able to receive it in ten days.

In her heart, she spoke, “Mother, thank you for letting me travel. I’ve been so happy these past days, happier than I’ve ever been. I’m even raising cows now..”

She rambled on in her heart. Perhaps due to the mother-child connection, the queen was leaning on the railing, gazing at the moon, and missing her daughter.

Li Zhangjie also hung up his lantern, a cow lantern. He hoped to learn well, become incredibly skilled, save enough money, and go home to build a house for his family.

Chu Qingzhi’s Kylin lantern was the first to be lit in the village, so she didn’t need to light it again.

As everyone lit their lanterns, Chu village lit up. Lanterns under the eaves shone brightly, creating a cozy atmosphere.

Shuiyun County.

The county was bustling on Mid-Autumn night, full of lively chatter.

Lanterns hung under eaves, and people walked the streets carrying lanterns. From above, these lanterns resembled stars in the sky, numerous and beautiful, creating a stunning sight.

Hong Yujun leaned against the window, her long hair spread out like her melancholic heart. She gazed at the full moon, thinking about her Young

Master..

Chapter 399: A Craft of One’s Own

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

Hong Yujun’s longing was not of romantic nature, but a yearning for her only kin – intense and pure. On a low table beside her, a jug of wine and a glass, filled to the brim, awaited.

She gracefully reached for the glass and downed its contents in one go, hoping the drunkenness would ease her thoughts of the young master.

Suddenly, a clear voice called out, “Hong’er…”

Startled, her face lit up with delight. She leaped barefoot from the window, embracing the handsome young man in white under the moonlight, “Young Master, you finally came to see me.”

Tears of joy rolled down her cheeks. The young man, taller than Hong Yujun, held her in his arms. He gently patted her back, softly saying, “It’s

Mid-Autumn today; of course, I’d come to see you. I brought mooncakes. Want to try?”

Releasing him, Hong Yujun wiped her tears and nodded eagerly, “Yes.”

The young man, his heart softening at her appearance, led her back inside to the low table, “Were you drinking wine?”

She nodded, “It’s lonely being alone, a little drink helps.”

Observing her, the young man felt relieved to see her gaze wasn’t that of a lover’s, “I have some friends who aren’t married yet. How about I introduce them to you?”

Hong Yujun glanced at him, then demurely lowered her head, “I’ll leave my marriage in your hands.”

Looking at Hongyu Jun, the young man said, “Then I’ll make the decision?” He really could not bear to see Hong’er alone here.

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Hong Yujun blushed and replied softly, “Ok.”

The young man opened the box and took out a mooncake. He handed it to Hong Yujun. “Have one.”

Hong Yujun smiled and took it. Then, she split the mooncake in half and handed half to the young man. “Eat it together.”

The young man took the mooncake and thought to himself that if he was a man, he would definitely marry Hong’er. What a good girl.

Hong Yujun took a bite of the mooncake and hurriedly opened the box on the low table. There were ten mooncakes inside.

“Young Master, I bought the same mooncakes as yours. They’re delicious. I tried one and bought all five flavors. These are specially for you.”

The young man looked at the mooncakes and felt touched. His heart softened even more towards Hong’er. “Hong’er, thank you.”

Hong Yujun said happily, “You don’t have to thank me.”

The young man said, “Hong’er, is there anything you want to do?”

For the time being, he could not immediately resolve Hong’er’s marriage. He might as well find something for her to do to distract her.

Unexpectedly, she said, “I want to brew wine.”

“Brew wine?” Chu Qingzhi was surprised, “Why would a lady like you enjoy brewing?”

Hong Yujun said, “In my memory, there’s always a pleasant fragrance of wine, but I can’t remember where I smelled it. As time passed, I became obsessed with wine.”

“Have you ever brewed before?” he inquired.

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Hong Yujun blinked at the young man and said mysteriously, “Don’t look down at me. I’m an experienced brewer.”

The young man asked with interest, “How so?”

“You’ve drunk the wine from the Hundred Flowers Tower, right?” Hong Yujun said proudly. “I brewed that.”

The wine in Hundred Flowers Tower was famous for its fragrance. Other wines could not produce that fragrance. Many people went to Hundred Flowers Tower just for that mouthful of wine.

She recounted, “There’s a brewing workshop in an alley past Hundred Flowers Tower . An old lady ran it after her husband passed. She couldn’t bear to sell it, so she brewed and sold wine herself.”

“When I was ten years old, I happened to pass by the alley and saw the old lady fall to the ground. I entered and helped her. The old lady started to teach me how to make wine.”

“It’s just that I’m a woman from a brothel. She’s unwilling to take me in as her disciple, but she taught me very well.”

“I spent three years learning her craftsmanship. After that, I’ve been helping out in the workshop.”

Her mood turned sorrowful, “The old lady passed away recently, and her son sold the workshop.”

The young man comforted her. “The old lady is old. It’s normal for her to die of old age. Hong’er, don’t be sad.”

Hong Yujun sniffled. “I know.”

The young man said, “I originally thought that Hong’er was just an ordinary beautiful girl. I didn’t expect my Hong’er to be so capable. You are already an old master at brewing wine.”

Hong’er shyly responded, “Just average. I can’t compare to Young Master.”

After chatting a while, an idea struck the young man, “Since you like brewing, would you help me with something?”

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Hong Yujun said enthusiastically, “Young Master, please tell me.”

The young man said, “I have a friend who wants to brew rice wine. Can you help?”

Hong Yujun agreed without hesitation. “Of course, but I’ve never brewed yellow wine before. Moreover, yellow wine is precious, and its brewing method is a secret.”

The young man said, “If you are willing to help, she will tell you the brewing method. Are you willing to try?”

Hong Yujun was in disbelief. “Normally, people only pass the skills to their sons or disciples. I’m not related to her. Will she really tell me?”

The young man said affirmatively, “She definitely will. Are you willing?” n/ô/vel/b//in dot c//om

Hong Yujun said, “Of course I’m willing. Furthermore, I’ll do my best to help your friend.”

The young man said, “Oh right, the brewing workshop hasn’t started yet. I need your help with this too.”

Hong Yujun smiled and said, “No problem. I know where to get quality, affordable brewing tools. If your friend trusts me with this, I’ll do my best.”

The young man said, “I knew I chose the right person.”

Hong Yujun said humbly, “You flatter me.”

Capital, General’s Mansion.

Tang Jinghong lit the two red apple lamps that Chu Qingzhi had placed for him and placed them on the table in the study to admire.

“Qingzhi, what are you doing now?”

Tang Jinghong slowly immersed himself in his longing.

A soldier’s report jolted him back to reality, “General, the Princess is here.”

Tang Jinghong immediately frowned. “Tell her that I’m not feeling well and can’t meet guests.”

As soon as he finished speaking, the door of the study was pushed open, revealing Princess Changle’s beautiful but incomparably aggrieved face.

She had just been released from house arrest by her royal brother and rushed to see Tang Jinghong, only to be met with such coldness.

Tears welling up, she asked, “Jinghong, am I so unwelcome to you?”

Chapter 400: The Princess Goes Mad n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

Tang Jinghong looked straight into Princess Changle’s eyes. The rejection and rejection in his eyes were obvious. “Yes, so please leave quickly.”

Tears welled up in Princess Changle’s eyes, her grievance reaching its peak. “Is she really that great? So great that you keep rejecting me over and over?”

“Yes, she’s the best girl in the world,” Tang Jinghong said coldly. “You’re a princess, born into nobility. Please, don’t demean yourself by coming here again.”

Princess Changle gazed at Tang Jinghong, baffled. “Jinghong, how can any girl be better than me?”

Tang Jinghong did not say anything.

Trying to negotiate, Princess Changle swallowed her pride. “Since you can’t part with her, I can accept her being a concubine. Just marry me first, and after that, you can marry her.”

Tang Jinghong was speechless. Had the princess lost her mind?

“Please leave, Princess. I won’t marry you. In this life, I’ll only marry one woman, and that is her.”

Tears streamed down Princess Changle’s face like pearls off a broken string. “Jinghong, I’ve compromised so much, what more do you want?”

Tang Jinghong’s gaze landed on the two red apple lamps. He did not want to talk to Princess Changle anymore. This princess had already gone crazy.

Princess Changle sat on the threshold of the study, hugging her arms, and began to cry bitterly.

Tang Jinghong extinguished the lanterns with a wave of his hand and left through the window. He couldn’t stand it anymore. If he could turn back time, he would have let someone else save the princess when she was injured.

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Seeing this, a hint of resentment crept into Princess Changle’s heart. All because of her!

If only she didn’t exist!!

A sinister glint flashed in Princess Changle’s eyes. What she wanted, she must have!!!

Tang Jinghong headed to the Ning family.

“Yuting, let’s have a drink,” Tang Jinghong said, carrying two jars of wine. He flew up to the rooftop and sat down.

Ning Yuting followed closely behind and sat at the side. “General Tang, why are you free to come and drink with me?” His tone was a little teasing. Now that they were thinking about the Chu sisters, they resonated.

After a sip, Tang Jinghong said, “You can call me by my name.”

Ning Yuting smiled and rephrased, “Jinghong, what brings you here for a drink?”

Looking at the city lights, Tang Jinghong mused, “I thought you might want a drink.”

Ning Yuting extended his jar towards Tang Jinghong, and they clinked their jars together, drinking in unison, understanding each other without words.

Fengxin County ? Lin Family.

After taking the medicine in the afternoon, Lin Yingmin fell into a deep sleep and hadn’t woken up until now. He didn’t even eat dinner.

The servant stood by his bed with a worried expression. “Young Master, what’s wrong?”

He was a beggar that Lin Yingmin picked up three years ago. Seeing that he was too pitiful, Lin Yingmin begged First Madam Lin to agree to let the beggar be his personal servant.

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That was the first time he made a request. Coincidentally, Master Lin was also around, so First Madam Lin agreed with a loving expression.

The servant repaid his kindness by taking care of Lin Yingmin attentively.

Lin Yingmin lay motionless, the serene moonlight casting his handsome features in a ghostly pallor

The servant, legs numb from kneeling, sat down on the footstool, watching Lin Yingmin intently. “Young Master, please wake up. Don’t scare me.”

Lin Yingmin did not respond.

Tears streaming down his face, the servant lamented, “Why would such a good person like you fall ill with such a strange disease?”

Suddenly, the window blew open, and a shadow flashed by. The servant fainted.

The shadow was Chu Qingzhi, who rushed to Fengxin County to cure Lin Yingmin’s legs.

She checked his pulse and frowned, “He’s been poisoned too?”

Chu Qingzhi hovered her hand over Lin Yingmin, emitting a bright light that enveloped him. After a few breaths, Lin Yingmin spat out a mouthful of poisoned blood, and the silver needles in his legs shot out.

Chu Qingzhi gathered the needles, wrapping them in a handkerchief. These were nice needles. She’d give them to her disciples.”

Lin Yingmin woke up, stunned to see Chu Qingzhi. “You’re here…”

Chu Qingzhi cut to the chase, “How did you get poisoned?”

“Poisoned?” Lin Yingmin looked confused. “I didn’t know I was poisoned.”

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Chu Qingzhi said, “The poison that the other party poisoned you will make you fall into a deep sleep, and your body will become weaker and weaker. In the end, you will die in your sleep. Think about it, who would harm you like this?” Lin Yingmin felt a chill. Who was targeting him secretly?

He led a low-key life, never stepping out unless necessary. He couldn’t fathom who he might have offended.

Chu Qingzhi said, “By the way, I’ve already taken out all the silver needles in your legs. You can walk after resting for a few days.”

Lin Yingmin touched his legs, trembling with disbelief. “I… I’ll be able to walk?”

“Yes.” Chu Qingzhi thought for a while and decided to remind him. “Your legs were harmed by someone else. The poisoning was also done by someone else. You have to be careful of the people around you.”

The coldness in Lin Yingmin’s heart had yet to dissipate. After hearing Chu Qingzhi’s words, he could not help but start to shiver. “Thank you, Miss Chu. I understand.”

Chu Qingzhi pulled out a painting from her sleeve, “Did you draw this?”

Lin Yingmin, surprised she had brought the painting, replied, “Yes, Miss Chu, I…”

She interrupted, “Whatever your reasons for drawing it, please don’t draw me again. I have a fiance. He might misunderstand, and 1 don’t want to upset him.”

These words were like a bolt from the blue. Lin Yingmin was stunned on the spot and his mind went blank.

Chu Qingzhi lit the painting on fire, watching it burn before his eyes. “I must go now. We’ll meet again.”

“Wait.” Lin Yingmin hurriedly stopped Chu Qingzhi.

Chu Qingzhi looked at Lin Yingmin. “Is there anything else?”

Lin Yingmin slowly grabbed the blanket under his hand and asked nervously, “Can we be friends?”

Chu Qingzhi said, “Sure. Not only can we be friends, but we can also do business together.”

In business, the more customers there were, the better.

Lin Yingmin was delighted. Then, he took out a stack of banknotes from under the pillow and handed it to Chu Qingzhi. “Miss Chu, this is the consultation fee.”

Chu Qingzhi took the 1,000 taels of silver and nodded before leaving.

Lin Yingmin looked in the direction of the window in a daze. He felt that the bright moonlight seemed to have dimmed a lot because of Chu Qingzhi’s departure. “Qingzhi, we’ll meet again soon..”