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Chapter 811: Entrusted with an Important Task

Editor: Henyee Translations

After the tablet was erected, a small shack similar to a kiosk would be built next to it. Chu Qingzhi planned to hire two people to staff it, specifically to assist visitors with inquiries and provide guidance.

Almost every day, new visitors came to Chu Village. Sometimes, when the villagers were too busy to be found for inquiries, and the visitors couldn’t locate Chu Qingzhi themselves, they had no choice but to leave.

Who knew if those leaving were potential major clients? Thus, Chu Qingzhi thought of constructing a duty pavilion to resolve this issue.

Qin Yuming and Xia Zongxian watched for a while before walking into the village.

Both thought simultaneously that the tablet must have cost dozens of taels of silver, considering the village seemed quite affluent!

As they arrived at the doorstep of Chu Qingzhi’s home, Wang Yuanping and Wang Yuanlin also reached, but since they didn’t recognize each other, they merely exchanged glances before waiting on their own.

Chu Xuhua came out from the house with Li Zhangjie to buy pigs in Sun Village.

Immediately after, Chu Qingzhi emerged and addressed the four, “Please wait a moment. Let me arrange their tasks first before I arrange yours.”

The four nodded in acknowledgment, “Yes.”

Chu Qingzhi approached Chu Qingshuang and others.

Chu Qingshuang, who didn’t need to go to the porcelain kiln these days, was resting at home. However, the industrious girl couldn’t stay idle and insisted on helping with household chores, so Chu Qingzhi tasked her with preparing the spices for curing pork.

Chu Qingshuang couldn’t handle all the work by herself, so she asked some young girls and boys from the village to help, around ten people in total.

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At this moment, they gathered together, chatting and laughing while waiting for Chu Qingzhi.

Chu Xiafeng suddenly spotted a beautiful figure, “Sister Qingzhi is here!”

Chu Xiafeng was the grandson of Chu Lianghong.

Hearing Chu Xiafeng’s announcement, everyone quickly dispersed, shouting in unison, “Good morning, Sister Qingzhi.”

Chu Qingzhi nodded in their direction, “Have you had breakfast? Are you cold?”

“We ate, not cold,” Chu Xiafeng said. “This year, everyone could afford cotton. Our mother stuffed our clothes with lots of it. They’re soft and warm, not cold at all.”

“That’s good,” Chu Qingzhi went straight to the point. “There are people waiting for me, so I’ll make it quick. Your task is simple; just grind the spices into powder.”

Addressing Chu Qingshuang, “The spices are in the storeroom behind the old house. There’s a label on the bags, a total of seven kinds. You lead them there.”

Chu Qingshuang acknowledged, “Yes, Fifth Sister.”

Chu Qingzhi added, “The tools and containers are all prepared. Just grind them directly. If you encounter any issues, feel free to ask me anytime.”

“Yes.”

Under Chu Qingshuang’s lead, the group headed to the old house.

Turning around, Chu Qingzhi approached Wang Yuanping and the others.

Along the way, she assessed the four individuals.

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Wang Yuanping and Wang Yuanlin were impeccably dressed, showing they took this matter very seriously.

Qin Yuming’s attire also matched his status, showing he was serious about the matter, but not as much as the Wang brothers.

Looking at Xia Zongxian, his body emanated a scent of steamed buns, his hands were greasy, and he held his sword casually. It seemed he was here to go through the motions.

Very well…

Regarding Chu Qingzhi’s gaze, the Wang brothers and Qin Yuming were quite composed, only Xia Zongxian felt somewhat uneasy, instinctively standing up straighter, though he reassured himself, “Just a young girl, what’s there to fear?!”

“Followme,” Chu Qingzhi led the four towards the fief.

The bamboo house was still under construction. Li’s father was indeed a man of action. Although the workers hadn’t arrived yet, he had already started working.

“This place is called Seal Office,” Chu Qingzhi explained. “This will be your workplace in the future, one room for each of you. The other rooms have different uses, which we’ll discuss later.”

The other three listened intently, while Xia Zongxian was somewhat distracted.

Chu Qingzhi continued, “The houses are not yet built, so your current workplace is temporarily set in a house I’ve rented.”

She took them to the house she had rented. n/ô/vel/b//jn dot c//om

It was the same house Yu Wanwan lived in. Yu Wanwan had already left, but everything in the house remained.

“There are rooms in the house. If you’re tired, you can rest there. There’s also a kitchen, toilet, and bathroom, fully equipped. If you have money, you can even hire a village auntie to cook for you. In short, everything is available.”

Upon reaching the house, Chu Qingzhi showed them around.

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Yu Wanwan and Zhuang Ziqian had lived there for over three months. Both of high status and not lacking in funds, they had arranged the place nicely, even planting vegetables in the yard, making it very comfortable.

Chu Qingzhi asked the four, “Did you understand everything I said just now?”

They nodded.

Chu Qingzhi then spoke about their remuneration.

“Seal Office currently has only four of you four, so the workload will be relatively heavy. I will offer you a higher salary.”

“Wang Yuanping and Wang Yuanlin, I hired you, so your salary is ten taels of silver per month. If you perform well, there will be bonuses. You’ll have four days off per month.”

“Qin Yuming and Xia Zongxian, you’re here to repay debts, so your salary is three taels per month, with no bonuses. If you slack off, I will extend your work period until your debts are fully repaid.”

Xia Zongxian objected, “Why do they get ten taels, and we only get three without bonuses?”

“Because you’re here to repay debts,” Chu Qingzhi crossed her arms, her expression slightly cold. “If you’re unwilling to work, you can leave immediately after repaying your debts.”

Xia Zongxian’s bravado diminished. If he had the money, he would have repaid it long ago. “Just tell me what to do,” he begrudgingly agreed.

“Regarding rest days, not everyone can rest simultaneously. There must always be two people in the Seal Office, so plan your rest days accordingly.”

“The specific assignments are as follows: Qin Yuming is in charge of population, Wang Yuanlin of agriculture, Wang Yuanping of tax collection, and Xia Zongxian of security within my fief.”

She intended to groom the Wang brothers into confidants, trusting the villagers of her fief more.

The other two were just making up the numbers for now!

Chu Qingzhi pointed to a chest in the room, “Here are the records of the population, agriculture, and tax collection of my fief. Your tasks for the next three days are twofold: verify the population, agriculture, and tax records, and familiarize yourselves with the distribution of my fief. You should know every detail, even the location of each tree.”

The Wang brothers did not expect Chu Qingzhi to entrust them with such important tasks. They gratefully bowed, “Yes, Miss Chu.”

Qin Yuming didn’t say much. His current attitude was to repay his debts, but he planned to complete the task diligently, “Yes, Miss Chu.”

Xia Zongxian, reluctantly, replied, “Yes, Miss Chu.”

Chu Qingzhi ignored his attitude, “In three days, I will assess your work. If I’m not satisfied, penalties will apply. In severe cases, you may leave.”

Considering the size of the fief, giving them three days was already quite generous. If they still couldn’t complete the task, she would consider finding replacements.

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Chapter 812: Clean and Pure

Editor: Henyee Translations

After Chu Qingzhi spoke, even Xia Zongxian became a bit more serious.

Chu Qingzhi said, “I have other matters to attend to shortly. Organize your thoughts and consider howto proceed with your tasks. If there’s anything you don’t understand, you can ask me at any time.”

Everyone responded affirmatively.

After Chu Qingzhi left, Wang Yuanping and Wang Yuanlin immediately sprang into action, knowing they had to prove themselves or else they’d never get another chance.

Qin Yuming also began to busy himself.

Xia Zongxian sat aside, casually commenting, “Why are you all so afraid of Chu Qingzhi? She’s so young, at most just a little girl. How powerful can she be?!” Qin Yuming reminded him, “Have you forgotten what happened at the bookstore?”

“That was just because they outnumbered us, and we were indeed at fault,” Xia Zongxian said, his voice weaker, lacking confidence.

Qin Yuming added, “Even someone like Tao Ming’an doesn’t dare to provoke Chu Qingzhi. You better start working.”

Upon the mention of Tao Ming’an, Xia Zongxian became annoyed, cursing, “That scoundrel Tao Ming’an, if not for him, I wouldn’t have ended up like this!”

Wang Yuanping couldn’t help but say, “Miss Chu hasn’t really done anything to you. What do you mean ‘ended up like this’? If you didn’t want to work, why didn’t you say so earlier?”

Wang Yuanlin added, “Talking behind someone’s back is not the act of a true man.”

Xia Zongxian retorted, “I’m talking about her, what’s it to you? Mind your own business.”

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Wang Yuanping glanced at Xia Zongxian, “Talking behind someone’s back and still so righteous. If you’re capable, complete the taskMiss Chu assigned.

Xia Zongxian defiantly said, “Who says I can’t complete it?”

Wang Yuanlin chimed in, “Then go ahead and do it. What are you acting high and mighty for?”

Qin Yuming played the peacemaker, “We’ll be working together for a while.

Let’s not sour our relationship. It will only make us miserable.”

Wang Yuanping and Wang Yuanlin didn’t want to cause any more trouble and potentially ruin their image in Chu Qingzhi’s eyes, so they kept quiet and focused on their work.

Xia Zongxian didn’t say anything more, placing his sword on the ground and leaning on its hilt, leisurely watching the others work.

Chu Qingzhi walked towards the old house, checked on Chu Qingshuang and the others processing the spices, and then headed to the yard to prepare the area near the well for pig slaughtering.

Grandma Chu had already boiled the water.

Gradually, the people Chu Qingzhi called to help with the pig slaughter arrived. They had ten pigs to kill, a task too cumbersome to manage without assistance. Soon, two pigs were brought back.

Chu Qingzhi approached and injected them with a syringe filled with a high concentration of anesthetic.

The pigs quickly fell unconscious.

“Begin the slaughter.” The concentration of the anesthetic was so high that the pigs would die shortly even without bleeding.

This method made pig slaughtering easier and less painful for the pigs, avoiding a cruel and bloody scene, especially since many children were watching. It wouldn’t be good to scare them.

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Everyone thought this method was quite convenient!

One of the butchers proceeded to bleed the pigs, then scalded them with boiling water. The rest of the task was handed over to the helpers, who worked in groups, orderly and efficiently.

With Chu Qingzhi’s help, slaughtering the ten pigs was effortlessly accomplished.

The butchers privately thought they had never slaughtered pigs so easily before. It was remarkable.

Chu Xuhua, seeing the ten pigs quickly gutted after being brought back, suggested, “Sister, it’s still early. Shall I go buy five more?”

After considering, Chu Qingzhi agreed, “Okay, let’s buy five more.”

Chu Xuhua left with Li Zhangjie for Sun Village again.

Meanwhile, the first pig was processed.

The fat was sent to the workshop for oil rendering. The pig’s blood, lungs, heart, tongue, and stomach were prepared for traditional pork dishes. The liver, kidneys, and large intestines were to be stir-fried later, while the small intestines were used for sausages.

The offal was consumed as much as possible; whatever couldn’t be eaten immediately was frozen for later use.

Chu Qingzhi took the butcher’s knife, first separating the pig’s head from its body. The skin was meticulously handled by the aunties, the bones were used for soup.

Next, she processed the body, removing the trotters and then separating the bones from the meat.

The ribs were marinated, while the spine and other bones were used for soup, with leftovers frozen.

The belly meat was used for sauce meat.

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Part of the hind leg meat was marinated, and the rest, along with other meats, was used for sausage.

That was roughly the arrangement.

Now, Chu Qingzhi was dissecting the pork alone, skillfully separating each part, the cuts precise and the meat clearly sectioned, making it look easy.

The onlookers praised her, especially the butchers, who thought her knife skills surpassed theirs. Without looking at the person, one might think Chu Qingzhi’s technique was that of a professional butcher.

After the pig was fully dissected, Chu Qingzhi placed the ribs in a wooden basin to be washed, drained, and then marinated.

The belly meat and hind leg meat were also placed in basins, to be washed, cooled, and prepared accordingly.

Lastly, the meat for sausages was washed separately, as it needed to be sliced. Tables were set up on the other side of the yard for slicing meat once washed. Since no one had made sausages before, Chu Qingzhi needed to demonstrate. She took the washed meat, weighed it to twenty pounds, and once the spices were brought over, mixed them into the meat slices according to the ratio. With the ratio set, everyone could follow suit, making the sausage-making process easier and ensuring a consistent taste without the risk of uneven saltiness or flavor.

The villagers who were free gathered at the old house, watching Chu Qingzhi slice the meat. She was fast, and the twenty pounds of meat were soon cut up and placed in a basin.

“Just cut it like I did, twenty pounds per basin. I’m going to get the spices,” she instructed.

It was simple, and after seeing it once, the aunties understood, “Okay, we got it.”

One auntie weighed the meat while the others cut it. If someone got tired of cutting, they would switch out, talcing turns. n/ô/vel/b//jn dot c//om

Li Qingyu stopped Chu Qingzhi, who was about to fetch the spices, “Qingzhi, how do you wash the small intestines?”

“Mom, let me show you.” Chu Qingzhi took the small intestines, first adding her prepared medicinal juice to rub it in, then rinsed it with clean water, followed by cutting it into several small sections. The small intestines didn’t need to be long for making sausages. After cutting them into sections, she turned them inside out, added the medicinal juice again, and cleaned them until the intestines were white and clean, without any strange smell.

“Mom, do you understand?”

Li Qingyu nodded, “I understand. I’ll wash the small intestines later. You just give instructions.”

Seeing her daughter’s hands, so white and delicate, Li Qingyu felt they weren t suited for such tasks.

“That’s fine.” Chu Qingzhi said, “Mom, I’m going to get the spices.”

“Go on.”

Chu Qingzhi headed to the backyard.

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Editor: Henyee Translations

In the backyard, Chu Qingshuang and a group of her friends had already ground a lot of spice powders. Each type of spice powder was placed in its own basin, neatly arranged on a table.

Upon seeing Chu Qingzhi, Chu Qingshuang called out, “Fifth Sister!”

“Well done, you’ve ground so much already.” Chu Qingzhi walked over to the table and praised.

Chu Qingshuang replied, “Everyone was worried you’d need it urgently, so we worked quickly.” n/ô/vel/b//jn dot c//om

Chu Qingzhi told everyone, “Seeing how hard you’ve all worked, we’ll all have the pork dish later.”

Everyone thanked her in unison, “Thankyou, Sister Qingzhi.”

Chu Qingzhi grabbed a nearby bowl and also a small scale, then said to Chu Qingshuang, “How about I teach you how to mix the spices?”

Chu Qingshuang eagerly responded, “Sure, I’ll complete the task!”

Chu Qingzhi finally brought over the salt and sugar, totaling nine ingredients. She planned to make two flavors, one sweet and one salty.

“I’ll teach you the sweet mix first…” While saying this, Chu Qingzhi scooped the ingredients into the small scale to weigh them.

Afraid of forgetting, Chu Qingshuang ran to get paper and pen to write down everything Chu Qingzhi said.

Then, Chu Qingzhi mixed the salty ingredients, again measuring carefully and demonstrating each step accurately.

After making two batches of each flavor, she let Chu Qingshuang try, “Qingshuang, give it a try.”

“Okay.” After two attempts, Chu Qingshuang got much more proficient. “How is it, Fifth Sister?”

“Very good, keep going. I’ll take the prepared spices out and start with a portion.”

“Okay.”

Chu Qingzhi placed the eight bowls of mixed spices on a tray and carried them outside.

Seeing Chu Qingzhi come out, Aunt Xu approached, “Qingzhi, do we just pour the spices into the meat slices and mix them evenly?”

Aunt Xu, from Xu Village, was specifically responsible for mixing the spices.

That is to say, everyone recruited by Chu Qingzhi had their tasks.

Chu Qingzhi nodded, “There are two types of mixes. This one with sugar is the sweet mix, which will be handed over to Aunt Zhang and her team responsible for the sweet sausages. The other is the salty mix, to be given to Aunt Xu and her team for the salty sausages.”

“Also, add a cup of yellow wine when mixing. It’s not just for disinfection; it will make it taste better later on.”

Aunt Xu replied, “Got it.”

Chu Qingzhi still demonstrated, as it was their first time making it and even simple tasks could go wrong.

The meat, shiny with oil, looked appetizing just from the seasoning alone.

After mixing, Chu Qingzhi demonstrated how to stuff the sausages.

She tied one end of the intestine with cotton thread, then used a small ring made of wood to open the other end and started stuffing the meat inside.

During the process, the meat had to be tightly packed to avoid gaps, which could cause it to fall apart when sliced later.

Once a section of intestine was filled, Chu Qingzhi would squeeze and press it to ensure the meat was tightly connected, then seal the end with cotton thread, and tie the sausage into sections. She pricked any bubbles with a needle to let the air out before hanging them to dry.

That was the entire process of making sausages.

The prepared sausages were a beautiful red color, glossy on the outside, making everyone swallow their saliva at the sight.

Chu Qingzhi arranged for the sausages to be dried in the stable where Fu Bao and Hou Fu used to live, as well as in the cattle shed.

These places had been cleaned and were free of dirt, perfectly suitable for other uses.

A wall had been built around the backyard early on, offering protection against theft, good ventilation, and a roof so they didn’t have to be moved in and out daily, avoiding hassle.

Chu Qingzhi, along with the aunties, stuffed the sausages again. Initially, the aunties were quite unskilled, but it didn’t take long for them to become adept, stuffing the sausages quickly and well.

The stuffed sausages were taken to the stables and cattle sheds to be air-dried by designated people. Chu Qingzhi had arranged everything.

Next was the curing of the pork, which required mixing the spices again.

Originally, Chu Qingshuang thought it would be easy, but the actual operation proved to be not so simple.

Each step wasn’t difficult on its own; the challenge was the multitude of steps that had to be performed accurately, as any mistake could ruin a batch of spices.

Chu Qingzhi called Chu Xiafeng to help Chu Qingshuang, which made her task much easier.

Chu Qingzhi took the prepared spices outside and demonstrated how to cure the pork.

First, a large jar of yellow wine was poured into a vat, then the cleaned meat was dried with a cotton cloth, dipped in the yellow wine to ensure the meat’s surface was covered with the wine, a step meant for sterilization.

If sterilization wasn’t done properly, the meat could spoil and turn foul.

After dipping in yellow wine, the meat was placed in a sieve to drain for a while. It didn’t need to be dried completely before it was rubbed with salt, ensuring every corner was covered to prevent spoilage.

The final step was rubbing in the spice powder, not missing any spots, as this was the source of the meat’s fragrance.

After these three steps, the meat was ready to be put in a large vat for seasoning.

The meat was neatly arranged in the vat, which could hold the meat from four pigs.

A pig yielded about seventy pounds of meat for curing, equating to about ten to twelve pieces. For four pigs, that meant around forty to fifty pieces, which could easily fit in the vat.

The meat needed to be cured for seven days to be flavorful, then hung to dry. After drying, it was ready to eat.

By calculation, in three rounds, over twenty-one days, two hundred pigs could be processed.

After curing the pork, ribs and pig tails were also cured, a process similar to the pork, thus not needing further explanation.

Lastly, sauce meat was prepared.

The difference in preparing sauce meat was the use of soy sauce.

In general, soy sauce was poured into a pot, mixed with various spices and cooked. Then, the cooked sauce was transferred to a large vat. After the sauce cooled, pork belly that had been marinated in yellow wine for fifteen minutes was soaked in the sauce.

It also needed to be soaked for seven days, then hung to dry. After a while, it was ready to eat.

Today, fifteen pigs were slaughtered, keeping everyone busy. Seeing the hustle, villagers who came to watch couldn’t help but join in.

Chu Qingzhi was grateful to everyone, so she announced… everyone would have the pork dish at her house at noon.

Even before December, Chu Village was already bustling with the festive atmosphere of the New Year.

After finishing his work, the butcher came to find Chu Qingzhi, “Miss Qingzhi, I’d like to buy something from you.”

Chu Qingzhi had an idea of what he might want but asked anyway, “What do you want to buy?”

The butcher was a bit awkward but covered it with a smile, “Could you sell me some of that anesthetic?”

Using anesthetics made slaughtering pigs too easy. Normally, slaughtering one pig required the help of five or six people to hold it down, exhausting and even risking injury.

Now, with the festive season approaching and more pigs to slaughter, having the anesthetic would make the job much easier, wouldn’t it?!

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Chapter 814: Unexpected Wealth

Editor: Henyee Translations

The two butchers were not evil villains; it was unlikely they would misuse the anesthetic to harm people. Chu Qingzhi said, “I can sell it, but it’s somewhat expensive.”

The butcher really wanted it, “Please tell me.”

Chu Qingzhi explained, “The anesthetic can only be used with a hollow needle. If you want to buy it, you need to purchase both items together. I’ll give you a discount, but it will still cost three taels of silver for a set, and that’s for a small bottle of the anesthetic.”

A small bottle amounted to about one or two taels in volume, which was quite little.

The butcher pondered for a moment, then asked, “How many pigs can one bottle of anesthetic knock out?” n/ô/vel/b//jn dot c//om

Chu Qingzhi conservatively estimated, “A hundred pigs shouldn’t be a problem.”

The butcher did some quick math. He charged five qian hundred copper coins in labor per pig, so slaughtering six pigs would earn him three taels of silver. Each year, he slaughtered roughly a hundred pigs, which meant he stood to gain significantly.

With that in mind, the butcher decisively said, “Alright, miss, I’ll take it.”

Chu Qingzhi thought to herself, surprised that this could turn into a business opportunity, “Wait a moment, I’ll go get it.”

“Miss, wait.” The other butcher, who had been eavesdropping nearby, also showed interest in Chu Qingzhi’s anesthetic.

Chu Qingzhi turned around, “You want it too?”

No longer hiding his interest, the second butcher nodded, “I want a small bottle too, and the hollow needle.”

“Okay.” Chu Qingzhi retrieved two bottles of anesthetic and two hollow needles from the pharmacy, each set packaged in a small box, “You can come back to buy more when you’ve run out.”

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“Thankyou, miss. We will,” the butchers carefully stored their purchases.

Chu Qingzhi cautioned, “The anesthetic is highly concentrated, so make sure children don’t touch it, or it could be life-threatening.”

The first butcher tentatively asked, “What if someone accidentally comes into contact with it?”

Chu Qingzhi replied, “Then you have about the time it takes an incense stick to burn to come and find me for a remedy.”

This comment made both butchers grimace, understanding that even good things need to be used correctly to avoid danger, “Miss, we understand.”

“Mhm.” Chu Qingzhi nodded at them and then continued with her tasks.

Chu Yehui came over, smiling as he lightly patted Chu Xuhua’s shoulder.

Chu Xuhua was gathering pig hair and jumped at the sudden touch, turning around to see, “You’re back?”

Chu Yehui had the air of a wealthy young master but didn’t put on airs, smiling, “I came back to buy something from you. No matter what, you have to set some aside for me.”

Chu Xuhua was puzzled; everything available and sellable at the restaurant had been given to him, “What do you need?”

Chu Yehui was excited, “Mushroom and bamboo shoot soy sauce. Do you know, recently there’s been a constant stream of people coming to buy these two sauces, and we’ve sold out.”

These were two new soy sauces recently launched. Chu Xuhua was surprised Chu Yehui came to ask for stock, “They’re selling that well?”

Chu Yehui nodded, “Customers say their children love it, especially for mixing with rice. They say with the sauce, their kids can eat an extra bowl of rice per meal and grow healthier.”

Chu Xuhua asked, “How much do you want? Give me a number, and I’ll send it to you.”

Chu Yehui gestured with one finger, “A thousand bottles of each.”

Chu Xuhua felt troubled, “A thousand bottles of each means I’d have to deliver in three batches; I can’t bring that much at once.”

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Chu Yehui was straightforward, “Then let’s do it over three days, 350 bottles a day. Can you manage that?”

Customers loved to take a bottle of sauce home after dining in his restaurant. Sometimes, he used it as gifts for those who spent a lot of money, often attracting many repeat customers. The business was really good.

ChuXuhua agreed, “Okay.”

With business concluded, they relaxed. Chu Yehui grinned, “Why are you guys slaughtering so many pigs?”

Chu Xuhua explained, “Making cured pork, sausages, cured ribs, and sauce meat.”

Chu Yehui’s mouth watered, “It must be good stuff. Make sure to think of me first when it’s ready.”

Chu Xuhua laughed, “If my fifth sister decides to sell them, you’ll be the first to get them for your restaurant.”

Chu Yehui clapped Chu Xuhua’s shoulder, “Good brother!”

Chu Xuhua suggested, “Stay for lunch at my place later. We’ve prepared a lot of pork dishes, all under my fifth sister’s supervision. Don’t miss out.”

Hearing that Chu Qingzhi was in charge of cooking, Chu Yehui’s mouth watered uncontrollably, “Okay.”

Chu Qingzhi’s cooking was famously delicious in the village.

Xu Guannan and Fang Mingyi stepped into Chu Village, feeling as if they had entered the festive season with its bustling atmosphere.

Fang Mingyi glanced around, “Looks like there’s a big event happening in the village!”

Xu Guannan’s handsome face showed a slight smile, “Let’s go see.”

They quickened their pace.

Soon after, Zhuo Yanhai’s voice followed from behind, “Wait for this old man, will you? Are you doing this on purpose, walking so fast I can’t keep up?”

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Zhuo Yanhai, a man in his fifties, was in charge of the Yunfei Academy’s canteen. With the academy closing for the New Year holidays in half a month, the headmaster had asked him to find some fresh and tasty food for the end- of-year banquet.

The year-end banquet was a tradition at the academy. Unless unavoidably absent, all teachers and students were expected to attend. It was meant as a reunion to celebrate the New Year together.

At this banquet, some students would be praised and awarded, making it a lively event every year.

Xu Guannan and Fang Mingyi had to stop and wait for Zhuo Yanhai.

Fang Mingyi joked, “Elder Zhuo, if you can’t walk fast, you could have just let us handle it. Why trouble yourself?”

Zhuo Yanhai refused to admit age, “I’m strong and healthy. It’s you who are walking too fast.”

Fang Mingyi teased, “Elder Zhuo, you’re being stubborn. If you keep this up, we might just leave you behind.”

Xu Guannan intervened, “Stop teasing Elder Zhuo. If he gets upset, he’ll walk even slower.”

Out of breath, Zhuo Yanhai pointed at them, “You two brats, wait until you’re my age. You might not even be as fit as I am.”

Fang Mingyi playfully responded, “That’s many years away. But right now, we are indeed fitter than you.”

“Let’s see about that,” Zhuo Yanhai said, stepping past them and moving ahead.

Arriving near Chu Qingzhi’s old house, the courtyard was so crowded they couldn’t get close.

Watching the unusual scene, they were speechless for a moment. Finally, Zhuo Yanhai asked, “What are they doing?”

Xu Guannan and Fang Mingyi shook their heads in unison; they didn’t know either.

Chu Qingzhi noticed them and approached, “Young Master Xu, Young Master Fang, Elder Zhuo.”

Chu’s Easy Trade and Yunfei Academy had collaborated a few times before, so they recognized each other.

Xu Guannan and Fang Mingyi greeted her with a bow, “Miss Chu.”

Zhuo Yanhai nodded with a smile, “Miss Chu, it’s good to see you again.”

Chu Qingzhi offered, “Would you like to come inside and sit?”

Zhuo Yanhai politely responded, “That would be an imposition.”

Chu Qingzhi stepped aside, “Please.”

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Chapter 815: A New Business

Editor: Henyee Translations

Chu Qingzhi led the three to the workshop’s meeting room, a space well-suited for business discussions as indicated by Elder Zhuo’s immediate understanding.

Upon recognizing that Chu Qingzhi personally escorted them, Shen Ruyue promptly served three cups of tea, “Please, have some tea.”

Chu Qingzhi gave up the main seat for Shen Ruyue, “Ruyue, you talk to them. I’ll just listen.”

She intended to eventually hand over the full management of the workshop to Chu Xuhua and Shen Ruyue. With so much on her plate at home, she was stretched too thin.

Shen Ruyue understood Chu Qingzhi’s intentions and took the main seat, starting the conversation with ease, “Please feel free to speak directly about your business.”

Zhuo Yanhai got straight to the point, “Madam Chu is straightforward, so I’ll do the same.”

“We have our year-end banquet in a little over half a month, for which we need some special food. I thought hard and realized only Chu’s Easy Trade has the most novel and delicious offerings, so I came here.”

Shen Ruyue modestly replied, “We’re flattered by your high regard. We’ll do our best to meet your requirements, sir.”

Zhuo Yanhai said, “I don’t have many requirements; just that it tastes good, is novel, and fits both the academy’s and the New Year’s atmosphere.”

Shen Ruyue glanced at Chu Qingzhi and responded, “I understand your request, sir. However, this is a type of business we’ve never undertaken before. We’ll need some time to discuss. Can you wait a bit?” Nôv(el)B\\jnn

Zhuo Yanhai was agreeable, “Of course.”

Chu Qingzhi and Shen Ruyue retreated to the first office.

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Shen Ruyue asked, “Qingzhi, should we take this business?” The decision was ultimately Chu Qingzhi’s to make.

“I need to think.” Chu Qingzhi stood by the window, looking out at the lush green hops growing along the fence, pondering.

Shen Ruyue waited silently, also contemplating. The request seemed simple, but realizing it posed significant challenges…

Just then, a voice came from the workshop entrance, “Be careful with these, they’re sticky rice, don’t let them get wet.”

Sticky rice?

An idea struck Chu Qingzhi, “Ruyue, go ahead and take the order. But we need detailed information about the number of teachers, students, administrators like Elder Zhuo, guests, and servants attending the banquet, and if servants are included, how many…”

“Alright.” Though unclear about Chu Qingzhi’s plan, Shen Ruyue agreed and returned to the meeting room.

Chu Qingzhi sat down, jotting her sudden inspiration on paper to refine later. This was an opportunity to make Chu’s Easy Trade renowned!

Back in the meeting room, Shen Ruyue, maintaining a polite smile, said, “We’ll take your order, but we need some information. Please be honest.”

Zhuo Yanhai was cooperative, “Ask away, Madam Chu. I’ll answer what I can.”

Shen Ruyue handed him a paper with Chu Qingzhi’s questions written down, “Sir, could you fill this out?”

Understanding the request, Zhuo Yanhai filled in the details, “Madam Chu, it’s completed.”

After reviewing the filled-out form, Shen Ruyue handed him an order form, “Please fill this out accurately. Once we both sign, it will become a contract.” “Okay.” Zhuo Yanhai filled it out meticulously and handed it back.

Shen Ruyue signed her name, “Normally, the client needs to inspect the goods three days after ordering. If unsatisfied, modifications can be made.”

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Trusting Chu’s Easy Trade, Zhuo Yanhai signed the contract without inspecting the goods, though he had a fallback plan to purchase any item from Chu’s Easy Trade in case of dissatisfaction, “I’ll visit again in three days.”

Afterwards, the three guests left.

Shen Ruyue escorted them to the workshop entrance, “Take care.”

After cleaning and drying all the pig bristles, Chu Xuhua headed towards the workshop, calling out, “Ruyue.”

“Xuhua, are the pigs all taken care of?” Shen Ruyue, about to head back into the workshop, saw Chu Xuhua and immediately greeted him with a smile.

Chu Xuhua reached out to hold Shen Ruyue’s hand, “It’s all done. Everyone is working on the follow-up tasks now. I took a moment to come over and discuss something with you.”

Shen Ruyue inquired, “What is it?”

Chu Xuhua said, “Chu Yehui wants to buy a thousand bottles each of mushroom and bamboo shoot soy sauce. He’s in a hurry, so I came over early to let you know so you can prepare in advance.”

Shen Ruyue thought for a moment, “Soybeans are no problem, but the challenge is the mushrooms and bamboo shoots. I’ll have Chu Haodong start purchasing mushrooms and bamboo shoots right away to expedite his order.” Chu Xuhua expressed his concern, “Ruyue, you’ve worked hard.”

Shen Ruyue shook her head, “It’s nothing. It’s all for our own, no matter how hard it is.”

Chu Qingzhi came out from the workshop, “Big brother, Ruyue.”

Seeing the papers in her hand, Shen Ruyue was pleasantly surprised, “Qingzhi, have you finished the design?”

Chu Qingzhi said, “It’s almost done. I’m going to check on the old house first, and I’ll finish up in my room later. Don’t worry, the design will be ready by tomorrow morning.”

Shen Ruyue had complete trust in Chu Qingzhi’s capabilities, “I’m not worried, just curious.”

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Chu Qingzhi responded, “Alright, you two take your time. I’m off to the old house.”

Shen Ruyue nodded.

In Wan City.

Yu Wanwan lifted the curtain of the carriage, looking at the familiar streets with emotion, “After traveling for most of the day, I’m finally home.”

The young maid smiled, “Miss, your return will surely dazzle everyone.”

Yu Wanwan, now slimmer and more mature from her experiences, replied, “Whether I dazzle or not isn’t important. As long as my parents are happy, that’s all that matters.”

She knew her parents had been worried sick about her but hadn’t mentioned it to avoid burdening her.

The maid excitedly said, “Miss, you’ve become so beautiful. The Prefect and Madam will surely be overjoyed.”

Yu Wanwan, however, was somewhat worried, “I hope so.”

Zhuang Ziqian gently held Yu Wanwan’s hand, “Wanwan, I wonder if your parents would still agree to our marriage now.”

Yu Wanwan blushed, her fair face turning a shade of pink, “Stop talking nonsense. My parents aren’t like that.”

Zhuang Ziqian looked into Yu Wanwan’s eyes, filled with affection, “Then I’ll propose tomorrow.”

Yu Wanwan shyly smiled, whispering, “I’ll wait for you.”

Zhuang Ziqian joyfully responded, “Good.”

Meanwhile, at the prefectural office, the Prefect and his wife were eagerly waiting. Their daughter was finally coming home.

The Prefect’s wife expressed her concern, “My lord, what do you think our daughter will be like now?”

Without hesitation, the Prefect replied, “She’ll definitely be very beautiful, just like you, dignified and virtuous.”

The Prefect’s wife felt proud, considering marrying this man to be her life’s greatest happiness, “Our daughter will surely be no less.”

The Prefect indulged her, “Of course.”

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Chapter 816: Genuine as Promised

Editor: Henyee Translations

As the couple comforted each other, a carriage bearing the family crest arrived, driven by their own servant. The couple exchanged a glance, abandoning decorum in their haste to approach.

The carriage stopped in front of the government office entrance. The servant hopped down and greeted, “My lord, madam, Miss Yu and Master Zhuang have returned.”

Hearing this, the couple looked up eagerly at the carriage.

A young maid jumped down first, followed by Zhuang Ziqian.

After disembarking, Zhuang Ziqian promptly paid his respects to the Prefect and his wife before turning to assist Yu Wanwan.

Many passersby gathered around, curious about who would warrant such a personal welcome from the Prefect and his wife.

Under the gaze of the crowd, Yu Wanwan lifted the carriage curtain to reveal a fair and beautiful hand, followed by her delicate face and slender figure, presenting an overall stunning appearance.

The Prefect and his wife were stunned by their daughter’s transformation, which was so drastic it was as if she had become a different person. n/ô/vel/b//jn dot c//om

The onlookers were baffled, wondering who this beautiful lady was to leceive such a reception from the Prefect and his wife.

Yu Wanwan approached her parents with a graceful bow, “Father, mother, your daughter has returned.”

The Prefect’s wife grasped Yu Wanwan’s hand, examining her from head to toe.

The features were somewhat familiar, but everything else was utterly transformed, “Wanwan, is it really you?”

“Mother, it’s me, genuine as promised,” Yu Wanwan replied with a light smile, her transformation so complete her mother thought she had been switched.

The crowd was shocked, recognizing her as the Prefect’s once plump daughter.

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“Is that really Yu Wanwan? How could she be so beautiful? It’s unbelievable!”

Zhuang Ziqian, noticing the increasing number of onlookers, suggested,

“Uncle, aunt, Wanwan, let’s discuss further inside.”

“Indeed, it’s not good for a lady to be gawked at like this,” the Prefect s wife immediately led Yu Wanwan inside, protective now that her daughter had become so beautiful.

As Zhuang Ziqian attempted to follow, the Prefect stopped him, “Young Master Zhuang, you’ve had a long journey protecting my daughter. Perhaps you should go home and rest?”

Zhuang Ziqian, unwilling to leave, responded, “My lord, escorting Wanwan was my duty; there’s no talk of hardship. Besides, you, with your responsibilities, are far more burdened.”

The Prefect pointed at Zhuang Ziqian, “It’s up to you whether you stay or leave!”

Zhuang Ziqian didn’t enter the Prefect’s residence but had already gauged the Prefect’s intentions.

Time to prepare a bridal gift!

Meanwhile, Yu Wanwan and her mother retreated to their room, where the Prefect’s wife eagerly inquired, “Wanwan, tell me how you regained your figure.”

Yu Wanwan shared everything without reserve.

Chu Qingzhi’s fame was known to all, leaving the Prefect’s wife astounded,

“You mean Chu Qingzhi cured you?”

Yu Wanwan nodded, “Mother, despite her young age, she’s incredibly skilled.

Not only medicine, but she also has an older sister who specializes in treating women’s ailments, healing many ladies’ hidden troubles. Everyone is grateful to her.”

The Prefect’s wife couldn’t help but remark, “Two female doctors in one family, that’s extraordinary.”

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Yu Wanwan clarified, “They’re not from a notable family, just farmers.”

“Are you joking with me at a time like this?”

“Why would I joke about this, mother? It’s true.”

“If that’s the case, then they’re truly rare talents.”

“Mother, Qingzhi is not just a rare talent, she’s a phoenix.”

“Alright, alright. She cured my daughter, so even if you say she’s a fairy, I’d believe it.”

Yu Wanwan leaned on her mother’s shoulder, acting coy, “Mhm.”

The Prefect’s wife affectionately patted her daughter’s head, “Rest for a while.

I’ll prepare dinner. Let’s have a good meal tonight and nourish you.”

“Thankyou, mother.”

In the Chu Village.

Wan Haonan gathered everyone who was idle, “The workshop is collecting mushrooms. After you’ve gathered them, send them directly to the workshop.” “Yes,” everyone responded, maintaining the disciplined habit from their military days.

Now that all the injured soldiers had fully recovered, they officially began their new chapter of life in Chu Village. Wan Haonan remained their leader, sparing Chu Qingzhi the trouble of finding someone else to manage them.

Wan Haonan distributed the tasks and then led the way into the mushroom shed to start picking mushrooms.

They didn’t pull the mushrooms out by the roots; instead, they used scissors to cut them, leaving the roots in the nutrient-rich soil. This method allowed for multiple harvests and ensured a consistent yield without diminishing over time.

A single mushroom shed could yield ten pounds at a time, and with ten sheds, they could collect a hundred pounds. Selling mushrooms at thirty copper coins per pound, they could earn three taels of silver in one go.

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Harvesting every three days, they could gather ten times a month, amounting to thirty taels of silver.

Divided among the twenty-five of them, each person could earn a little over one tael, considered as their extra income.

There were also black fungus.

They moved dead wood from near the bamboo grove to the vicinity of the mushroom sheds. The black fungus continuously grew on these logs, which they would then harvest and sell to the workshop.

Many small incomes added up to a substantial amount, something not to be underestimated.

With money to be earned and a stable life, the injured soldiers lived happily every day, the shadows that once lingered in their hearts now completely dispelled.

Just as they finished gathering the mushrooms, Yang Youjiang rushed over, “I saw a lot of fish in the river. Let’s catch some to eat.”

Yang Youjiang was one of the injured soldiers.

Wan Haonan thought it over and said, “Let’s go take a look.”

The group made their way to the riverbank in high spirits. Indeed, the river was teeming with fish.

Seeing the fish, Yang Youjiang couldn’t help but suggest, “Haonan, let’s borrow a fishing net and catch some fish.”

Wan Haonan thought that besides eating, they could also sell the fish, earning some money for New Year’s preparations. “Okay, let’s borrow one from the village.”

Yang Youjiang quickly returned with a borrowed fishing net, “Haonan, I m good in the water, count me in.”

“I’m good in the water too.”

“Count me in.”

Everyone was eager to participate, so Wan Haonan selected six people to join him in laying the net, deciding to test their luck with one haul.

Under Wan Haonan’s orderly direction, they set the net smoothly from a boat by the river.

After laying the net, they waited for half an hour, pulling the boat back to shore to patiently wait.

When it was time, they rowed out to gather the catch.

Pulling the net towards the shore, and once they were on land, others helped to drag the net up.

As the water drained from the net, the sound of splashing filled the air as white fish leaped out of the water, lively and endearing.

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Chapter 817: A Flush of Embarrassment

Editor: Henyee Translations

“Look at all those fish!” n/ô/vel/b//in dot c//om

” Really a lot, we hit the jackpot this time!”

“Quick, pull the net up completely.”

Seeing so many fish excited many onlookers. Since the drought, the river hadn’t been fished, and over half a year, all the fish had grown significantly.

Wan Haonan instructed, “Quickly get something to hold them, and ask around the village if anyone wants to buy fish. We’ll sell them cheap!”

Luo Hongping, thrilled, said, “Right away.” He and a few others ran into the village.

Wan Haonan selected ten big carp and ten big grass carp to put in a bucket, “Shang Yong, take these fish to Miss Chu.”

Guo Shangyong immediately responded, “Okay.”

After Luo Hongping’s announcement in the village, everyone aware of their fishing expedition rushed towards the riverbank, craving the taste of fish, which had been absent from their tables for a long while.

Chu Qingzhi, also yearning for fish, was about to go buy some when she saw Guo Shangyong approaching with a bucket of fish, “Miss Chu, these fish ate for you.”

Chu Qingzhi, seeing the quality of the fish, offered, “Fishing isn’t easy. Let me buy them from you.”

Guo Shangyong firmly refused, “That would be like slapping us in the face. A few fish aren’t worth your money, Miss. You don’t need to give us anything, just take them home to eat.”

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Chu Qingzhi smiled, “Then thank you very much.”

“Too formal,” Guo Shangyong said generously. “Miss, shall I carry the fish into your house for you?”

“Sorry to trouble you.”

After dropping off the fish, Guo Shangyong hurried back to the river.

In the kitchen, Chu Qingzhi thought the fish in the family pond should also be ready to eat; she planned to check in a couple of days.

The noon meal was exceptionally lavish, featuring fish, meat, chicken, and duck, surpassing even festival feasts.

Wang Yuanping and the other three were also invited by Chu Qingzhi to join the meal and were introduced to the villagers, facilitating their future work.

Seeing them working under Chu Qingzhi, everyone expressed their welcome and willingness to cooperate, showing warm enthusiasm.

This eased the four newcomers, who greeted everyone with smiles before taking their seats.

The Wang brothers, facing the abundance on the table, felt a tinge of emotion, it had been a long time since they had eaten so well—the last time was probably three years ago?

Qin Yuming thought, although his family was considered affluent, they never indulged to such an extent. This meal felt like a high-end banquet.

Xia Zongxian, looking at the lavish spread, suddenly felt a bit ashamed. He had slacked off all morning, yet here he was, enjoying such a feast, feeling

unworthy.

The same table stirred different thoughts in the four of them.

Except for them, everyone else had genuinely helped and thus ate without any reservations.

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Zhang, the butcher, remarked, “I’ve been slaughtering pigs for many years, but this year’s meal is the best I’ve ever had. Other households only cook some pig lungs and blood; none are as generous as this, cooking everything so lavishly. If it weren’t for the timing, I’d think it was New Year’s.”

Zhou, another butcher, agreed, “I’ve encountered similar situations to yours. The more generous ones might cook some pig hearts, but never prepare any chicken, duck, or fish like this. If not for the season, I’d also think we were celebrating New Year.”

A villager added, “Even on New Year’s, I don’t eat this well.”

“Ha, we rarely get such a treat, so let’s eat up and thank our hosts.

“Let’s eat, and thank the household.”

Chu Qingshuang piled Chu Qingzhi’s plate with pig stomach, heart, and tongue, “Fifth Sister, you’ve worked hard. The best is for you.”

Chu Qingzhi smiled. “Okay.”

Everyone joyfully continued their meal.

After lunch, the afternoon was filled with more bustling activities.

Zhang Feng, the manager of the southern road project in Shuiyun County, arrived at Chu Village, “Miss Qingzhi, the southern road is completed. Please come to inspect it.”

“That was quick!” Chu Qingzhi had expected it to take another two days. “Everyone’s eager to receive their wages before the New Year to repair their houses and prepare for the celebrations. So, we worked an extra hour these past few days, and that sped things up.”

“Let’s go then.” Chu Qingzhi mounted Fu Bao and followed Zhang Feng to the southern road.

The southern road was constructed entirely according to Chu Qingzhi’s specifications, with three-meter-wide bluestone slabs laid neatly. Everything that needed filling was filled, and everything that needed digging was dug, resulting in a very smooth road. Milestones were also erected, uniform in size and with clear inscriptions, adding a scenic touch to the roadside.

Riding to the end of the road, Chu Qingzhi was met by four men, each holding a record book, “Miss.”

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Chu Qingzhi nodded at them and then reviewed the record books. After half an hour, she signed her name satisfactorily, “Thank you all for your hard work.” Zhang Feng smiled, “Miss, if there’s anything like this in the future, feel free to call onus.”

“Okay.”

Now, only the northern and eastern roads remained.

The eastern road was under Chu Rong’s responsibility. Since it involved repairing all the roads within Chu Qingzhi’s territory, the project was significant and still some time away from completion.

The northern road, leading towards Wan City, was longer and expected to take another two days.

After the inspection, the group returned to Shuiyun County.

Chu Qingzhi placed the record book under the county office’s notice board for public viewing.

News of the southern road’s completion spread quickly, but not everyone was ready to believe in Chu Qingzhi. Some were nitpicking, waiting to see her fail. Upon hearing the news, they were the first to inspect the road.

He Wenyou and Duan Qidao were such skeptics, and good friends at that.

They had also inspected the western road but found no issues. So this time, they were determined to find something wrong with the southern road, unable to believe that Chu Qingzhi was genuinely acting in the public’s interest.

The two arrived at the southern road, each carrying a stick, meticulously tapping each stone slab to check for any movement, which would indicate a problem with the construction.

They planned to widely publicize any issue they found, ensuring everyone knew about the road’s problems.

However, after tapping over two hundred meters of road without finding any faults, He Wenyou grew tired and sat on a nearby stone.

This stone was deliberately placed there for passersby to rest if they grew weary.

Seeing He Wenyou sit, Duan Qidao joined him, “This stone is quite nice. Not too high or low, and very smooth. It’s perfect for sitting.”

Just as He Wenyou was about to respond, something to the left caught his eye, “There seems to be a small pavilion over there. Let’s check it out.

Duan Qidao was also interested, “Alright.”

The pavilion, made of thatch, was simply constructed but sturdy. Inside, there were long stone benches on three sides.

A sign hung in the pavilion read, “Wayfarer’s Pavilion,” implying it was built for travelers.

It was perfect for sheltering from sudden rain or taking a break from the summer heat, especially since there were no villages nearby. Finding shelter in the pavilion was ideal.

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Editor: Henyee Translations

As they viewed the sigil, a wave of shame washed over them.

He Wenyou said, “Miss Chu is genuinely working for the people. We were too narrow-minded this time.”

Duan Qidao nodded in agreement, “Indeed, she’s not like those corrupt officials who pocket the hard-earned money of the common folk for themselves. She genuinely invests it back into the community.”

He Wenyou turned to Duan Qidao, “Shall we continue looking?”

Duan Qidao sighed, “Let’s, but not like before. This time, let’s appreciate it as tourists.”

He Wenyou smiled, “Sounds good.”

At Li’s Bridge.

Ye Qingmin, the son of the elder organizing the bridge construction, sneakily pulled Ye Rende aside, smiling ingratiatingly, “Brother De, my friend has some stone material that’s better than the batch we originally settled on and much cheaper. Do you want to take a look?”

Ye Rende, whom Chu Qingzhi had promoted to a junior manager role responsible for procuring materials for Li’s Bridge, listened as Ye Qingmin earnestly tried to persuade him to check out his friend’s stone material, clearly with an ulterior motive.

Ye Rende, true to his name and hence promoted by Chu Qingzhi, tactfully declined, “Brother, the stone material has already been ordered, and Miss Chu has already signed off on it. Changing it now seems inappropriate.”

Ye Qingmin dismissively replied, “What’s inappropriate about it? Just tell Miss

Chu the stone has issues and switch to another supplier.”

Ye Rende expressed his reluctance, “Brother, Miss Chu isn’t someone to be trifled with. I dare not.”

Ye Qingmin, secretly irritated by Ye Rende’s refusal but still aiming to achieve his goal, kept a smiling face, “Brother De, Miss Chu trusts you. She won’t doubt you.”

Just then, a coworker’s voice rang out, “Brother De, Miss Chu is here.”

Ye Rende breathed a sigh of relief; Miss Chu’s timing couldn’t have been more perfect, “Brother, I need to see if Miss Chu needs anything. I’ll take my leave first.” He quickly made his escape.

Ye Qingmin stomped his foot in frustration, labeling Ye Rende a coward doomed to poverty.

Meanwhile, Elder Ye was delighted to see Chu Qingzhi, “Miss, you’ve come.”

Chu Qingzhi stood at the head of Li’s Bridge, “I just finished inspecting the southern road and thought I’d check on Li’s Bridge while I’m at it.”

By then, the bridge piers had been set, and the construction was about halfway through to finishing the bridge body.

Chu Qingzhi secretly used her spiritual power to check the stability of the bridge piers. They were extremely solid, requiring her to exert seventy percent of her power to even budge them, ensuring the bridge would withstand floods.

After her inspection, Chu Qingzhi inquired, “Have you encountered any difficulties recently?”

Elder Ye waved his hand dismissively, “Everything’s going smoothly. Thanks to Miss Chu’s help with the boulders earlier, we’ve overcome the hardest part. The rest should be easy.”

Chu Qingzhi nodded, “That’s good. If you encounter any issues, feel free to come to me. There’s only a month left until the New Year. We aim to finish the bridge before then to make it easier for everyone to go to the county town for their shopping, ensuring a good celebration.”

Elder Ye promptly agreed, “Exactly as you said, Miss. We’ll speed up the work.” Chu Qingzhi added, “While it’s important to progress, safety is equally crucial. Be careful to avoid injuries and accidents.”

Elder Ye solemnly assured, “Miss, don’t worry. We understand.”

After making her rounds and finding no issues, Chu Qingzhi left.

She took a different route home to inspect the surrounding roads, having not done so for two days.

In the Chu Village.

On her way home after the inspection, Chu Qingzhi was stopped by a man dressed in black. “Miss Chu, I am a guard of Princess Yun Hua. She sent me to deliver some items to you.”

While speaking, he took off his backpack and handed Chu Qingzhi the contents: a book and a letter.

The book seemed ordinary, but the letter, as thick as half a book, piqued Chu Nôv(el)B\\jnn

Qingzhi’s curiosity. She decided to read the letter first.

“Qingzhi, do you miss me? I miss you so much.”

“Yichen really came to find me, but he went to the south of Anhuai Kingdom to suppress bandits to gain my mother’s approval. Those who go to suppress bandits often don’t return, and I am so worried about him.”

“Qingzhi, I’ve finished writing my story. I originally planned to sell it in the bookstore myself, but now I can only ask for your help.”

“By the way, how’s the bookstore doing?”

“Qingzhi, I have so much to tell you…”

The rest of the letter was filled with Wu Yaqing’s daily life and thoughts, at least ten thousand words long, detailing her life since returning home.

After quickly scanning the letter, Chu Qingzhi said to the man, “Come home with me for a meal, and wait for me to write back to Yaqing. How about that?”

The man bowed, “Thank you, miss.”

They both headed back to Chu Village together.

Once home, Chu Qingzhi asked Li Qingyu to prepare some warm food for the man while she went upstairs to write a reply.

Chu Qingzhi wrote a 3,000-word letter back to Wu Yaqing. After giving the letter to the man, she also packed a lot of snacks preserved with her spiritual power to send back with him.

The man, expecting a light journey, found himself carrying even more items on his return.

After sending the man off, Chu Qingzhi took the book to the ancestral hall.

Monkey had already helped water the wheat in the fields. Chu Qingning had completed her task and was now teaching the children in the school. Chu Qingzhi arrived just in time for the break.

Chu Qingning asked, “Fifth sister, why are you here?”

Chu Qingzhi showed the book she was holding, “I need the children’s help with something.”

“What book is it?” Chu Qingning, curious, took the book. It had been bound into a blue-covered volume titled “The Princess’s Escape from Marriage.” “Who wrote this?”

Chu Qingzhi replied, “Yaqing wrote it.” It was a classic ancient romance, based on her and Lu Yichen’s story.

Wu Yaqing had a good literary style, and the writing was excellent. The classical language, though not easy to read, felt extraordinarily beautiful.

Chu Qingning began to read on the spot, unaware of Wu Yaqing’s true identity.

To avoid unnecessary trouble, Chu Qingzhi had asked Wu Yaqing not to disclose it.

After reading, Chu Qingning commented, “Fifth sister, Yaqing must come from a distinguished family, right?”

Chu Qingzhi raised an eyebrow, “What makes you say that?”

Chu Qingning analyzed, “Her writing exudes a sense of luxury, indicating she grew up in a wealthy family. Plus, her status must be quite high, as her words carry an aura of nobility not found in common folk.”

Chu Qingzhi thought privately about how mature Chu Qingning’s thinking had become, “Do you want to know her identity?”

Chu Qingning looked up at Chu Qingzhi, pondering for a moment before saying, “Fifth sister, tell me. I’m quite curious.”

Chu Qingzhi leaned in, “Yaqing is Princess Yun Hua of Anhuai Kingdom, the only legitimate princess of the queen. When Jinghong and I were on a mission in the north, she ran away from her marriage and later traveled with me to the capital…”

Chu Qingning’s eyes widened in shock, almost like copper bells, “Yaqing is, is a princess?”

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Chapter 819: Taxation Issues

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Chu Qingzhi watched Chu Qingning’s shocked expression and smiled, “What do you think? Surprising, isn’t it?”

Chu Qingning, still dazed, struggled to come back to her senses, “It’s so unexpected. Yaqing is actually a princess; it’s unbelievable.”

It’s no wonder she was so shocked. The difference between a princess and common folk was like that between heaven and earth. Someone like Wu Yaqing seemed almost like a fairy descended to the mortal realm.

Chu Qingning continued, “When Yaqing was staying with us, she didn’t put on any airs of a princess at all. She mingled with us and got along so well with the villagers. You could tell she had an air of nobility about her, but I never thought she might be a princess.”

She grabbed Chu Qingzhi’s hand, “Fifth sister, will we be able to see Yaqing again?”

Chu Qingzhi replied, “It’s hard to say, but if we wish to, it should definitely be possible.”

Chu Qingning was somewhat excited at the prospect of becoming friends with a princess, “That’s true. Where there’s a will, there’s a way.”

Chu Qingzhi said, “Yaqing sent me a letter, asking me to sell her book at the bookstore. We only have one copy right now, and I was thinking of having the children transcribe it. Have you assigned them any tasks?”

“Not yet. Let’s make transcribing the book their task,” Chu Qingning suggested, looking at the blue-covered book. “However, for transcription, the book will need to be disassembled. Is that okay?”

“After disassembling, we can just rebind it. It’s no issue,” Chu Qingzhi took the book in her hands, inspected it, then used a dagger to cut a few threads, clearing them away and disassembling the pages, “Fourth sister, could you fetch some paper? I’ll go in and explain to the children how to transcribe.”

Chu Qingningnodded, “Sure.”

Chu Qingzhi entered the schoolhouse…

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“Miss Qingzhi!”

“Miss Qingzhi!”

“Miss Qingzhi!”

The children erupted into excitement upon seeing Chu Qingzhi; her visits to the schoolhouse were rare, making her sudden appearance a delightful surprise.

Chu Qingzhi approached the front of the classroom, “Quiet down, everyone. I’ve come here because I need your help with something.”

The children looked attentively at Chu Qingzhi.

She held up the book, “I have a book here that I’d like your help in transcribing. It doesn’t have to be perfect, as long as the handwriting is legible. Would you be willing?”

The children answered in unison, “Willing.”

“Then I’ll distribute the pages among you. Each person will transcribe their page three times. Try not to dirty the pages I give you, okay?”

“Got it!”

With the pages marked by page numbers, Chu Qingzhi evenly distributed them.

Chu Qingning came into the schoolhouse and distributed paper as well. Receiving the paper, the children began transcribing earnestly without a word.

Watching the children transcribe so earnestly made Chu Qingzhi think of movable type printing, but she quickly abandoned the thought.

Publishing the book using printing would cost more than the book’s value itself, making it entirely unnecessary.

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Typically, the sale of storybooks involves bookstores hiring students from academies to transcribe them.

It was common for many students to transcribe storybooks at bookstores to earn tuition and living expenses.

After the children finished transcribing, it would be possible to assemble three new copies of the book. Then, further copies could be made by students, significantly speeding up the process.

Awhile later, Chu Qingzhi fetched some paper for painting.

After the Fief Office’s residence was completed, some paintings were needed for decoration. She planned to use her own paintings, as buying originals could cost at least a thousand taels, a sum better donated to charity than spent on such extravagance.

Chu Qingning observed, “Fifth sister, what are you planning to paint?”

Chu Qingzhi replied, “A landscape depicting the sky clearing after the rain. By the way, fourth sister, do we still have paint at home?”

Chu Qingning said, “Yes, I personally packed it away in the storeroom. I’ll fetch the red, green,…, and blue – these seven colors of paint for you right away if you need them.”

Chu Qingningnodded, “Okay.”

After retrieving the paints, Chu Qingning arranged them in bowls on a tray, “Fifth sister, is this alright?”

“Yes, that’s fine, fourth sister,” Chu Qingzhi took the tray and placed it aside, then picked up seven brushes to start adding color to her painting.

With each stroke she made on the paper, a picture of a summer landscape after a rain came to life.

The sky was adorned with grey clouds of various sizes, with what seemed like a cluster of fire behind them, illuminating the clouds in a radiant red, fading into the distance.

Distant mountain ranges were shrouded in a thin mist.

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The surface of the nearby lake sparkled, with several birds skimming over it, seemingly frolicking and playing in high spirits.

An ancient stone bridge spanned the lake, with some people leisurely walking across under umbrellas.

Willow trees planted along the lake brimmed with leaves, swinging like small whips in the wind, their leaves dotted with water droplets that reflected brilliant light.

Overwhelmed, Chu Qingning found herself at a loss for words to describe the painting’s merits, “Fifth sister, if you were to sell this painting, it would surely fetch more than a thousand taels.”

Chu Qingzhi was quite pleased with her painting as well, “Art usually only gains value after the artist’s death.”

Chu Qingning hastily interjected, “Don’t talk like that. Nothing about death.”

Chu Qingzhi reassured her, “It’s not that serious, don’t worry.”

Taking her sister’s advice to heart, Chu Qingning said solemnly, “Don’t casually mention death, especially with the New Year approaching. Let’s not say such things anymore.”

Chu Qingzhi nodded in agreement, “I’ll listen to fourth sister.”

With five rooms in the fief office needing decorations, Chu Qingzhi continued to paint four more pieces.

In the main hall, while Wang Yuanping was organizing the tax records, he encountered an issue.

A family in Xu’s village, led by Xu Dongguang, struggled to pay their autumn land tax. Xu Dongguang was taken to do hard labor and had not yet returned. His family consisted of an elderly father, an elderly mother, a partially blind wife, an eight-year-old daughter, and a four-year-old son. n/ô/vel/b//jn dot c//om

After some thought, Wang Yuanping took the records to the ancestral hall to find Chu Qingzhi.

Chu Qingzhi, stepping outside, inquired, “Is there a problem with the taxes?”

Wang Yuanping explained the issue he found, not only with Xu Dongguang’s family but several other impoverished families as well.

After reviewing the records, Chu Qingzhi instructed, “Visit them to verify the situation. If it’s true, pay their taxes for them, bring them back, give them some seeds, and help them plant their fields. They can repay the taxes to me next year.”

Wang Yuanping was astonished by Chu Qingzhi’s approach. If it were anyone else, he was certain they would drive these people out of their land without a second thought about their wellbeing. Chu Qingzhi’s kindness towards her people was exceptional.

Feeling slightly moved, he agreed, “Yes, I’ll see to it immediately.”

After bidding farewell to Chu Qingzhi, Wang Yuanping headed towards Xu’s village.

The reality was more severe than Wang Yuanping had anticipated. Xu Dongguang’s home was a thatched cottage with a roof turning black, one side leaning and propped up by a bamboo stick, on the verge of collapsing. It looked perilously unsafe.

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Chapter 820: Visiting the Farmers

Editor: Henyee Translations

The yard was somewhat dilapidated, with some cabbages and radishes planted on both sides, their leaves turning yellowish and not looking very healthy.

At the entrance, an old man and woman each sat on one side, holding walking sticks, their faces covered with wrinkles, and their shaky postures indicating their difficulty in moving.

At their feet, a little boy with clothes full of patches, his face and hands covered in dirt, was playing with mud. At the age of three or four, he was oblivious to the hardships of life, his eyes innocent and pure.

Wang Yuanping noticed the boy’s shoes were torn, and his clothes were just layers of thin fabric. In December’s weather, when everyone else wore cotton- padded clothes, the boy’s thin attire looked particularly cold.

A frail girl around eight or nine years old came out of the house, dressed even more poorly than the boy, her hair somewhat messy, her hands red from the cold, carrying a dark bowl. She approached the old man, “Grandpa, I’ve cooked some porridge for you. Please have some.”

The old man gently pushed the bowl away, “Xiaoyun, you drink it. You’re still young and need to grow. Grandpa isn’t hungry.”

The girl then offered the bowl to the old woman, “Grandma, then you have it?”

The old woman also shook her head, “Grandma isn’t hungry either. You drink it. If you fall ill, there will be no one to take care of us.”

The girl didn’t drink it, instead offering it to the little boy, “Brother, you drink it. Weren’t you saying you were hungry?”

The boy, not understanding much, started eating.

Wang Yuanping approached them, “Young lady, where are your parents?”

Xiaoyun was startled, immediately standing in front of the boy, wary, “Who are you? What do you want with my parents? I don’t know anything, don’t ask me.”

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The once peaceful and loving girl suddenly became defensive, as if triggered by something.

The old man and woman also became aggressive, using their walking sticks to approach Wang Yuanping, “Get out, get out!”

Previously, someone had intruded into their home wanting to sell the siblings, hence the family’s strong aversion to strangers.

Wang Yuanping used a soothing tone, “Don’t be afraid. My name is Wang Yuanping. I work for Chu Qingzhi. We learned that Xu Dongguang was taken by the officials, and I’ve come to help.”

Upon hearing this, Xiaoyun immediately burst into tears, asking while wiping her eyes, “Did Sister Qingzhi really send you to help us?”

The old man and woman, hearing this, couldn’t help but tear up as well.

Wang Yuanping nodded, “It’s true. As long as the situation is real, I’ll immediately go to the county town to bring your father back.”

Xiaoyun immediately knelt in front of Wang Yuanping, pleading, “Uncle, please save my father. Next time, we’ll definitely pay the full land tax.”

Wang Yuanping helped Xiaoyun up, “First, answer a few questions truthfully, or I won’t be able to help.”

Xiaoyun nodded eagerly, “I’ll answer honestly.”

Wang Yuanping asked, “Why didn’t your family pay the full land tax?”

With teary eyes, Xiaoyun explained, “Actually, our crops were okay even after the drought. But during the autumn harvest, my mother fell ill. My father didn’t want to lose her, so he sold the crops to pay for her treatment. When it was time to pay the land tax, he didn’t have enough crops and couldn’t borrow money, so the officials took him away.”

A man of principle and love, Wang Yuanping asked further, “And your mother?”

Xiaoyun cried again, “After my father was taken, my mother blamed herself, crying every day until she went completely blind. Now she’s bedridden and can’t do anything.”

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Seeing the young girl’s plight was heart-wrenching. Wang Yuanping couldn’t help but feel sympathy, “I understand your family’s situation. Now, I’ll check on a few other families. Then, we’ll bring everyone back together. If everything goes as planned, you should be able to see your father this afternoon.”

Xiaoyun immediately bowed deeply in gratitude, “Thank you, uncle. Thank you, Sister Qingzhi.”

“Get up; it’s all right now,” Wang Yuanping consoled her and took out a coin from his pocket that Du Qiaolan had given him for emergencies, placing it in Xiaoyun’s hand, “Go buy something to eat.”

Seeing the silver coin, Xiaoyun broke down crying, “Uncle, I will never forget your kindness for as long as I live.”

After comforting her a bit more, Wang Yuanping quickly moved on to the next household.

The family’s situation was dire without the head of the household, emphasizing the urgency of bringing them back as soon as possible.

After visiting five families whose heads had been detained, Wang Yuanping immediately headed to the county town. Following some negotiations and after paying off the land taxes, the five individuals were released.

At the entrance of the county office, Wang Yuanping said to the five, “Follow me to thank Marquise and also to collect some seeds for your homes. If you plant them now, it’s not too late.”

The five, with tears in their eyes, responded, “Yes, young master.”

Wang Yuanping led them to Chu’s village and then to the ancestral hall’s entrance.

Just as Chu Qingzhi finished her fourth painting, she heard Wang Yuanping’s voice and came outside, “Yuanping, have you explained everything to them?”

“Everything that needed to be said has been said.”

“Then later, you’ll have Yuanlin check if there are suitable wastelands around their villages. Hire some people with a wage of one silver coin for a day’s work to help clear the land and plant the crops. After planting, if they wish to find work, they can help with building houses or the brick kiln, where there’s a great need for labor.”

“Yes.”

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The five, moved by Chu Qingzhi’swords, knelt and kowtowed, “Thank you, Marquise. Thank you, Miss Chu.”

“I’ve done what I can. From now on, it’s up to you.”

“We will work hard and not let Miss Chu down.” Nôv(el)B\\jnn

“Stand up. Go about your business. The New Year is approaching; try to earn more money to buy New Year goods.”

“Yes.”

Watching the figures receding into the distance, Chu Qingning remarked, “If you had become Marquise earlier, people’s lives would have been even better.”

“It’s not bad now.”

“That’s true.”

Chu Xuhua joined them, “Fourth sister, fifth sister, the bacon is ready, and the sausages are all hung up.”

“Let’s go have a look.”

In the old house’s yard, everyone was busy cleaning and washing the various tools…

Chu Qingzhi walked towards the backyard. The salted sausages were hung in the stables, and the sweet sausages were in the cattle sheds. Both sheds were full of sausages, giving off a somewhat extravagant vibe.

She checked a few at random; the sausages were well stuffed with a mix of fat and lean meat. Those hung in the morning were already slightly dry on the surface, while those hung more recently were still shiny. Close up, there was a fragrant aroma of yellow wine, and the meat was tightly packed without gaps, indicating a job well done.

She then visited the room where large pots neatly contained the cured meat, covered with oil paper to prevent dust and other particles from falling in.

Chu Qingzhi lifted the paper slightly at one pot to take a sniff, which was enough to tell her about the curing process.

After inspecting all the pots and finding no issues, she went out to the courtyard.

“Thank you all for your help. In six days, we’ll need to butcher pigs again. I hope you can lend a hand once more.” Chu Qingzhi gave everyone a piece of meat weighing two pounds as thanks.

Normally, such help wouldn’t require payment, so giving some meat was just right.

Everyone happily agreed, “We’ll definitely come.”

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