Chapter 491: Too Vengeful

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

In the evening, people were more focused on enjoying themselves rather than conducting business.

The stalls were still set up as usual, but those selling food were particularly busy, especially Li Qingyu’s stall.

After receiving the message, Li Zhangjie quickly arranged for the afternoon’s prepared goods to be delivered to Guangxi Garden.

Before the goods were even fully set up, business started pouring in.

The four elders experienced the feeling of making so much money that their hands grew tired. A sense of joy and excitement that overshadowed their fatigue made them happy to keep busy.

Several teenagers approached the stall…

“Auntie, 1 want two grilled sausages.”

The grilled sausages, cooked separately over charcoal and sprinkled with seasonings, were fragrant and delicious, selling very well.

“Uncle, I’ll have two sandwiches.”

“I want a green bean ice cream bar.”

“I’ll have half an apple pie.”

“I want half a catty of cookies and half a catty of bread.”

Chu Qingzhi had planned to stroll around the garden with Tang Jinghong, but seeing her family’s stall so busy, she decided to help out.

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Tang Jinghong helped set up the goods and then said with a bit of longing, “Actually, I think this is nice. In the future, when we’re old, we could run a small stall and live a simple life.” n/ô/vel/b//in dot c//om

Chu Qingzhi handed a sandwich to a young girl and put the money in the cash box, “I’d prefer to sit in a chair and bask in the sun.”

Tang Jinghong immediately changed his words, “Then you bask in the sun, and 1’11 run the stall alone.”

Chu Qingzhi smiled, “1 can’t bear to see you work so hard alone.”

Tang Jinghong looked at Chu Qingzhi affectionately, willing to give her everything, “Don’t worry, as long as you’re happy, that’s all that matters.”

Third Master Lu walked over and crossed his arms as he looked at Tang Jinghong, who was living like a commoner. “Tsk tsk, 1 didn’t expect you to let go of your status and say something like that.”

The Tang Jinghong he first knew was silent, serious, and cold. Now, he had changed so much, almost like a different person.

Tang Jinghong glanced at Third Master Lu, “Get to work.”

“Work, work, work…” Third Master Lu joined in the work. If those who knew him saw him now, they wouldn’t believe it was the same person.

Third Master Lu, usually colder than Tang Jinghong, had been like a thousand-year-old iceberg, making the air feel colder wherever he was. Those around him always felt like they were facing a ruthless beast, daring not to breathe too loudly.

Wu Yaqing came over with a sugar figurine for Chu Qingzhi, “This is really tasty.”

Then she handed Chu Qingzhi a piece of brittle candy, “This is also especially delicious.”

Chu Qingzhi put the sugar figurine, shaped like a flower, in her mouth like a lollipop, then walked over to Tang Jinghong and fed him a piece of brittle candy.

Third Master Lu, seeing this scene, awkwardly turned his face away.

Wu Yaqing had given everyone candy, but she ignored Third Master Lu. He didn’t feel good.

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She waved to Chu Qingyue and Hong Yujun, “Second sister, Yujun, let’s go and enjoy the garden.”

Chu Qingyue and Hong Yujun had been standing at the entrance, waiting for the merchants to claim their gift for closing a deal. Chu Xujin and Ge Lihua hadn’t returned from dealing with the traffickers.

Chu Qingzhi said, “Go ahead and have fun. We can work tomorrow.”

Hearing Chu Qingzhi’s words, they happily tidied up the table and went off with Wu Yaqing to enjoy the garden.

Third Master Lu watched Wu Yaqing with some frustration, thinking to himself, “Just because 1 gave her a hard time a few times, she’s holding such a grudge!”

Tang Jinghong looked sympathetically at Third Master Lu, understanding that an angry girl is not easily coaxed.

Chu Qingning was helping to treat patients at the free clinic, seizing the opportunity to gain experience.

Initially, the clinic wasn’t very busy, as those feeling unwell wouldn’t have the energy to come here.

However, after Zhou Xiangfu’s heart ailment was treated there, and people saw the imperial physician cure him with just one pill, the clinic’s reputation spread, and more people started coming.

Jiang Zhaoyong, wanting to be with his beloved, also helped out at the clinic, though he really wanted to stroll around the garden with Chu Qingning.

“How much longer will you be here, Qingning?” he asked with anticipation in his voice and eyes.

Chu Qingning looked up at Jiang Zhaoyong, his bright eyes focused on her. Not wanting to disappoint him, she said, “1’11 see this patient, and then we can go for a walk in the garden.”

Jiang Zhaoyong was overjoyed, “Okay.”

Later, they walked towards the lakeside, entering the bustling crowd, quickly becoming engulfed by the throng of people.

Using the cover of night, Jiang Zhaoyong took Chu Qingning’s hand and led her forward.

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This was their first time holding hands. Chu Qingning tensed up at first, feeling nervous, but gradually relaxed.

Jiang Zhaoyong’s hand was broad, strong, and calloused, giving a sense of security.

Chu Qingning’s hand, delicate and fair, was completely enveloped in his.

Holding her hand, Jiang Zhaoyong felt immense satisfaction, his smile unconsciously widening.

He thought to himself how soft her hand was, as if it would break with a little pressure.

“Qingning, may I play the guqin for you?” he asked.

“I’d like that.”

Jiang Zhaoyong led Chu Qingning to the stall where he had bought the guqin, “Shopkeeper, may I borrow a guqin to play a piece here?”

The shopkeeper, remembering Jiang Zhaoyong, readily handed him a guqin, “Please.”

Jiang Zhaozong borrowed a stool, sat down, placed the guqin on his lap, and began to play.

He played “Yang Chun Bai Xue,” a melody that was fresh and smooth, with a relaxed and cheerful rhythm. Passersby cast glances, and some even stopped to listen.

It wasn’t that his playing was exceptionally good, but his emotions were full.

Chu Qingning stood by, watching Jiang Zhaoyong with focused attention, her lips curving into a smile. This man truly cared for her; otherwise, why would he play the guqin for her in the street?

Men playing the guqin wasn’t unusual, but the occasion was generally significant and formal. Playing privately for a girl was almost unheard of.

As the piece ended, applause broke out, “Good!”

Jiang Zhaozong looked up at Chu Qingning, who had been watching him. Their eyes met, and in that moment, the surrounding scenery blurred, the noise faded, and their reflections filled each other’s pupils, as if they were the only two in the world.

After an unknown period, the noise returned, the scenery became clear again, and both of them bashfully averted their gazes.

Chu Qingning felt her face burning, hurriedly covering her cheeks to cool down.

She had been too unrestrained just now; thankfully, it was night. She dared not imagine if it had been daytime.

Jiang Zhaoyong returned the guqin to the shopkeeper and, holding Chu Qingning’s hand, rejoined the crowd, his heart bursting with joy..

Chapter 492: Crossing Paths Again

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

Wu Yaqing, Hong Yujun, and Chu Qingyue passed by a stall selling shoes, and Hong Yujun stopped, “1 want to buy a pair of shoes.”

Wu Yaqing and Chu Qingyue looked at the stall, and Wu Yaqing commented, “This is a men’s shoe stall. You…”

Hong Yujun, with an evasive look, said, “Don’t make wild guesses.”

Wu Yaqing and Chu Qingyue exchanged knowing smiles.

Feeling embarrassed, Hong Yujun tried to ignore them and approached the stall, choosing the best shoes, “Young man, could you box these nicely for me?”

The assistant smiled, “Sure thing, miss. Just a moment.”

After paying, the three girls continued walking, with Wu Yaqing and Chu Qingyue flanking Hong Yujun.

Wu Yaqing teased, “Confess, and we won’t nag you.”

Blushing, Hong Yujun whispered, “1 will tell you if you promise to keep it a secret.”

Wu Yaqing solemnly swore, “We won’t tell anyone.”

Hong Yujun whispered, “1 used to know a young master. He asked his friend to be my matchmaker. These shoes were bought for him.”

“Matchmaking?” Wu Yaqing excitedly asked, “Have you met him already?”

Hong Yujun nodded shyly, “Twice already.”

Wu Yaqing enviously said, “You both have someone you like. Why am I still alone?”

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Chu Qingyue patted her shoulder, comforting, “You’re still young, no need to rush.”

Wu Yaqing stamped her foot, gesturing dramatically, “Oh heavens, grant me someone too.”

Third Master Lu turned around, “What do you want?”

When Wu Yaqing saw Third Master Lu, she was furious and said rudely, “Why are you here? Aren’t you helping?”

Could he say that he left because Chu Qingzhi and Tang Jinghong were being lovey-dovey?

Third Master Lu glanced at Wu Yaqing. “Why do you care where I am? Does it have anything to do with you?”

Wu Yaqing retorted, “It doesn’t, but why are you answering me?!”

Third Master Lu shrugged, “Just happened naturally.”

Wu Yaqing pointed at him, fuming, “People like you deserve to be struck by lightning.”

Third Master Lu looked dejected, “Yes, I’m unlucky. Got hit on the head for no reason, and the assaulter refused to take care of me. It’s tragic.”

Feeling guilty, Wu Yaqing stammered, “I, uh…”

Third Master Lu shook his head and said in a disappointed tone, “Forget it. Someone like me was born to be abandoned. If I’m beaten up, I can only blame myself for being unlucky. If I’m struck by lightning, so be it.” With that, he turned around and left.

Wu Yaqing pulled Chu Qingyue with one hand and Hong Yujun with the other. She said anxiously, “I suddenly feel so sorry for him. What should 1 do?”

When Chu Qingyue and Hong Yujun heard Third Master Lu’s words, they couldn’t help but feel sorry for him.

Hong Yujun suggested, “Maybe buy him something as an apology?”

Chu Qingyue agreed, “Right, buy something or invite him to eat something to apologize?”

Determined, Wu Yaqing said, “You go ahead. I’ll find him.” She would show some sympathy to the pitiful-looking man.

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Chu Qingyue advised, “Be sincere, Third Master Lu won’t hold it against you.” n/ô/vel/b//jn dot c//om

Resolute, Wu Yaqing said, “Okay.”

She quickly caught up to Third Master Lu’s tall and cold figure, awkwardly trying to make amends, “Um, how about I treat you to something to eat?”

Third Master Lu glanced at Wu Yaqing. His eyes were cold and emotionless, as if he had returned to being the cold and heartless Third Master Lu in the capital.

“No need, you eat.”

Wu Yaqing was a little frustrated. She took a step forward and blocked Third Master Lu’s path. She put her hands on her waist. “You’re a man. Why are you so petty? I’ve already come to apologize to you. Can’t you be more magnanimous and accept it?”

Third Master Lu’s gaze was cold. “No!” With that, he stepped around her and continued walking.

Wu Yaqing closed her eyes, took a deep breath, then reached out to grab Third Master Lu’s arm, stopping him, “1…”

Third Master Lu didn’t expect Wu Yaqing to grab him, and as a passerby bumped into him from the side, he stumbled towards her.

Wu Yaqing felt herself being enveloped by a looming shadow and fell backward.

Everything happened too quickly for her to react.

Third Master Lu, reacting faster, stepped aside to stabilize himself while reaching out to grab Wu Yaqing’s wrist and pull her up.

After standing up, Wu Yaqing felt dizzy.

Seeing that Wu Yaqing was alright, Third Master Lu continued on his way.

Suddenly, Wu Yaqing shouted, “Stop!”

Everyone around stopped and turned to look at her.

Embarrassed, she smiled awkwardly at the onlookers and then pulled Third Master Lu through the crowd to a snack stall, “How about 1 treat you to something as an apology?”

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Third Master Lu glanced at the stall and said indifferently, “Not hungry.”

Wu Yaqing was speechless.

She wondered if it was impossible to please him.

She forcefully sat Third Master Lu down on a stool, assertively stating, “If you won’t eat, then watch me eat!”

Third Master Lu was speechless.

Why wasn’t Wu Yaqing afraid of him?

Usually, when he was stern, people around him were intimidated, but this girl dared to force him?

They were at a stall selling noodle soup. The owner, feeling Third Master Lu’s icy aura, was hesitant to approach, “Miss, what would you like?”

Wu Yaqing raised her hand and said happily, “A bowl of seafood noodles.”

The owner nervously asked, “Just one bowl?”

Wu Yaqing nodded affirmatively. “One bowl, a big portion.”

“Sure thing.”

The noodles were quickly prepared. The owner placed it on the table and hurried away, finding Third Master Lu too intimidating. Even from a distance, he felt oppressive and chilly, like someone from an ice cave.

He glanced admiringly at Wu Yaqing, amazed at her courage. Wasn’t she afraid of being frozen?

Wu Yaqing ignored Third Master Lu, picked up the chopsticks, and started eating the noodle happily.

As for expressing her apology, she had completely forgotten about it.

All she wanted was to go against Third Master Lu.

Naturally, Third Master Lu had no interest in watching Wu Yaqing eat and tried to leave, but she was quick to react. As soon as he stood up, Wu Yaqing pushed him back onto the stool.

Third Master Lu was speechless.

Wu Yaqing withdrew her hand, stating domineeringly, “You can leave after 1 finish eating.”

Why should I?” Third Master Lu frowned, his intimidating presence becoming more palpable, causing the stall owner to shiver.

“For no reason,” Wu Yaqing thought to herself. There was no point in reasoning, so she decided not to bother..

Chapter 493: Guarded Hearts

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

Third Master Lu tried to leave again.

Wu Yaqing reached out to stop him, but this time Third Master Lu was prepared. He caught Wu Yaqing’s wrist, firmly stating, “Not a second time.”

Standing over the seated Wu Yaqing, Third Master Lu was surprised to see her eyes well up with tears.

Not understanding why, but feeling a softening in his heart, he said, “You…”

Wu Yaqing, looking at her wrist, said softly, “It hurts…”

Third Master Lu quickly let go, showing a hint of apology.

Wu Yaqing’s delicate wrist now bore four purple finger marks, “Were you planning to crush my wrist?” Her tears fell, making her look pitiful.

Third Master Lu’s guilt intensified, realizing he had hurt her more than he intended, “I’m sorry.”

Wu Yaqing didn’t respond, her wrist genuinely aching. She didn’t want to talk to him.

Third Master Lu sat down, hesitating before pulling out a small bottle of medicine, “I’ll apply some for you?”

Wu Yaqing stretched out her wrist and said aggrievedly, “I’ve never been so seriously injured before.”

Third Master Lu dipped his index finger in some ointment from the bottle and gently applied it evenly on the wound. This was the first time he was taking care of a girl, so his movements were quite gentle. “Do you have a handkerchief?”

Wu Yaqing handed him the handkerchief in her sleeve.

Third Master Lu took the handkerchief and wrapped it around Wu Yaqing’s wrist twice. He tied it up. “The medicine is very effective. You should be fine tomorrow.”

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Curious, Wu Yaqing pointed at the small bottle, “Why do you carry medicine with you?”

Third Master Lu put away the bottle, replying, “I often get injured.”

Wu Yaqing found the man before her shrouded in mystery and couldn’t help but ask, “What do you do? Why are you frequently injured?”

She wiped her tears and picked up her chopsticks to eat the noodles again. However, before she ate, she ordered another bowl for Third Master Lu.

“This has nothing to do with you. Eat.” Third Master Lu thought to himself. Was this girl really innocent? Or was she so scheming that even he couldn’t understand her?

“If you are not honest, we can’t be friends.”

“So be it.”

Wu Yaqing kept quiet. She also had a secret and was not in any position to criticize him.

However, after this incident, their relationship became much more harmonious.

On the other side of the lake, Chu Xuyao suddenly ran to a big tree and dragged out a person hiding behind it, “Why are you sneaking around following us?”

The person pulled out was He Shaoshi, Chu Xuyao’s classmate.

He Shaoshi felt a bit guilty but acted tough, “What do you mean following you? Isn’t everyone allowed at the food festival?”

“Yes, everyone can come, but you and…” Chu Xuyao pointed to the person Chu Xuyan pulled out from another tree, “Su Wenji have been following us from the start. Don’t tell me it’s a coincidence?”

He Shaoshi stubbornly argued, “It’s a coincidence. The Guangxi Garden isn’t that big, it’s not impossible to bump into each other.”

Yan Yixian walked over. “Tell me, why are you following me?”

Under the natural intimidation of a teacher, He Shaoshi almost spilled the beans, but Su Wenji interrupted, “We’re just here for a stroll. Such an occasion is rare.”

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He Shaoshi was relieved. He almost gave himself away, “Exactly, we’re just enjoying the festival on our day off.”

Nobody believed their explanation.

Chu Xuyao threatened, “If you don’t tell us, I’ll take you to my third brother and fifth sister. You won’t be able to lie in front of them.”

Chu Xuyan firmly held Su Wenji, “Xuyao, no need to waste words with them, let’s take them now.”

He Shaozhi and Su Wenji were immediately frightened. Their third brother was from the government, and their fifth sister could knock out people hundreds of meters away. They were all terrifying people.

In their panic, He Shaoshi suddenly charged at Yan Yixian, pushing him over, and in the ensuing chaos, he and Su Wenji made a run for it.

“Teacher, teacher…”

Chu Xuyuan and Chu Xuyao went to help Yan Yixian up.

Caught off guard by He Shaoshi, a rather chubby boy, Yan Yixian was pushed to the ground flat.

Bystanders also helped, suggesting, “Go to the free clinic. Sometimes the injury doesn’t show immediately.”

Chu Xuyan nodded in agreement, “Thank you, we’ll go right away.”

At the clinic, several people were waiting in line. The two helped Yan Yixian to a seat.

Chu Xuyao ran to his family’s stall, “Fifth Sister, our teacher is injured. Can you take a look?”

Chu Qingzhi washed her hands before following Chu Xuyao, “How did he get hurt?”

Chu Xuyao explained the situation to Chu Qingzhi, “Fifth Sister, did I do something wrong? Otherwise, the teacher wouldn’t have gotten hurt.”

Chu Qingzhi said, “One must not harbor the intent to harm others, but at the same time, one must be vigilant against the malicious. You did nothing wrong, but in the future, be wary of those with ill intentions.”

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Chu Xuyao nodded earnestly, “Fifth Sister, I understand.”

In the clinic room, Chu Qingzhi checked Yan Yixian’s pulse. Observing the man before her, she thought he resembled a peaceful, calm monk, devoid of worldly desires, like a bowl of warm water.

“It’s nothing serious; just rest for a couple of days.”

Yan Yixian breathed a sigh of relief. If he fell ill, no one would take care of his cat at home, “Thank you.”

Chu Xuyao approached, tugging at Chu Qingzhi’s sleeve, “Fifth Sister, can the teacher’s leg be treated?”

Chu Qingzhi responded, “We’ll see.”

Bao Linjiang handed her a pair of gloves, “Master.”

Chu Qingzhi put on the gloves and gently felt Yan Yixian’s calf, “The leg fracture wasn’t treated promptly, leading to misalignment and deformity.”

Yan Yixian’s eyes lit up with hope. He had accepted his fate, but being healed would be better.

“Doctor, can it be treated?”

“Yes, but it will be a long process.” She could directly use her spiritual power to recover him, but this would draw too much attention. She could only use medicine to slowly recover him.

Yan Yixian, filled with hope, said, “A longer process is fine. Please, doctor, help me.”

Chu Qingzhi advised, “Don’t be in a hurry. First, go home and recuperate, then come to me.”

Yan Yixian realized his impatience, “Thank you, doctor.” n/ô/vel/b//in dot c//om

Yuan Hongjun and Bao Linjiang followed Chu Qingzhi back to the stall.

Yuan Hongjun asked, “Master, to treat his leg, wouldn’t we need to break it and then reset it?”

Chu Qingzhi explained, “It’s not that simple. Otherwise, he would have already sought treatment.”

Yuan Hongjun furrowed his brows, “Why is that?”

Chu Qingzhi replied, “There are several fragments at the break site. Simply resetting it after breaking it again won’t work. We need to remove the broken bones.”

Yuan Hongjun paused. “Doesn’t that mean we have to cut through the flesh?”

Chu Qingzhi asked, “Have you ever done that?”

Yuan Hongjun and Bao Linjiang shook their heads. Without proper medicine, even deep cuts could be fatal, so they never dared to cut open flesh..

Chapter 494: Counting Money Together

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

Chu Qingzhi pondered for a while, “In the next few days, collect some medicinal herbs. I’ll teach you surgery.”

Bao Linjiang asked, “Does surgery mean opening the flesh to treat diseases?”

Chu Qingzhi nodded, “Have you seen a coroner dissect a body?”

Both replied, “We have.”

“It’s similar to that,” Chu Qingzhi explained. “The technique is similar, but the process is very delicate and requires a lot of precautions. I’ll explain in detail later.”

When the two young men with a great fervor towards medicine heard this, they immediately looked forward to it. “Yes, Master.”

At dusk, the sound of gongs signaled the closing of Guangxi Garden. As the announcement echoed, people began to leave, and the vendors started packing up.

Chu Qingzhi’s family also began to pack up, having sold everything. The stall remained set up for the next day.

Once everything was packed, Chu Qingzhi checked the garden one last time before locking up and heading home with her family.

At the inn.

Returning to the inn, Zhou Yunlin hurriedly went to Zhou Xiangfu’s room, “Father, I talked with Chu Xuyao. Guess what happened?”

Zhou Xiangfu hadn’t expected Chu Xuyao to refuse.

He thought that upon their offer, Chu Xuyao would feel lucky and agree without hesitation. But Zhou Yunlin’s expression suggested otherwise.

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“Did something unexpected happen?”

Zhou Yunlin shook his head, “No accident, but I was surprised. During the negotiation, Chu Xuyao didn’t seem very pleased. Instead, he said he needed time to consider. Father, doing business with the Chu family is not easy. They have experts.”

Zhou Xiangfu became interested, “Tell me more.”

Zhou Yunlin said seriously, “Initially, while negotiating with Chu Xuhua, at the critical moment, he said he wanted to consult with his fifth sister, Chu Qingzhi. After coming back, his attitude changed.”

Zhou Xiangfu stroked his beard, pondering, “So, Chu Qingzhi is the real decision-maker in the Chu family?”

Zhou Yunlin affirmed, “Yes.”

Zhou Xiangfu was silent for a while before handing a stack of papers to Zhou Yunlin. “Take a look.”

Zhou Yunlin read through the papers. “Chu Qingzhi not only built her family’s fortune from scratch but also uplifted her entire village… received royal recognitions and gifts… and is engaged to the National General…”

Stunned by each revelation, Zhou Yunlin realized the immense value of having a relationship with Chu Qingzhi, not only for business but for countless other benefits.

“We must secure this deal!” he exclaimed.

Zhou Xiangfu agreed, “Our business is large enough, but being the taller tree means we’ll easily be the target. We must tread carefully.”

Zhou Yunlin solemnly responded, “Father, 1 understand.”

“You indeed need to tread carefully, or else you are sending yourself to your demise!” Li Changle’s voice came through the window, filled with a threatening undertone.

Startled to find someone outside their window, the two were relieved they hadn’t discussed any secrets. Otherwise, the consequences would have been dire!

Zhou Yunlin looked towards the window, “Who’s there? If you have something to discuss, please show yourself.”

The window was pushed open, and a figure flew in, landing in the center of the room.

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Li Changle was disguised, so the two of them didn’t recognize her. She took out a token. When the two of them saw it, they knelt down. “Greetings, Your Highness the Princess.”

Li Changle put away the token, getting straight to the point, “I don’t want your family to cooperate with Chu Qingzhi. She’s my enemy. If you work with her, consider the consequences.”

Zhou Yunlin, out of the capital for a year, was unaware of their feud, “May I ask how Miss Chu offended the princess?”

Li Changle, annoyed, “Are you deliberately provoking me?” n/ô/vel/b//jn dot c//om

Zhou Yunlin bowed, “Forgive me, princess, I truly didn’t know.”

Li Changle calmed down and said, “Forget it. It doesn’t matter if you know or not. You just have to remember that I don’t want you to work with Chu Qingzhi! Otherwise, 1 will definitely intervene in the marriage of the eldest daughter of the Zhou family and the eldest son of the Zhou family.”

The eldest daughter’s marriage determined whether or not the Zhou family could find a strong alliance.

The eldest son of the Zhou family was their heir.

Both were vital lifelines for the Zhou family.

Zhou Xiangfu and Zhou Yunlin shuddered at the thought, reluctantly agreeing, “Yes, Your Highness.”

Li Changle, having achieved her goal, left happily.

While she was pleased, the Zhou father and son were distressed. They exchanged a look and sighed in unison.

Their situation felt like finding a treasure only to be told they couldn’t touch it.

That feeling was indescribable!

Zhou Yunlin helped Zhou Xiangfu to a seat, “Father, what should we do now?”

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The old are wiser. Zhou Xiangfu, deep in thought, said, “To deal with an obstacle, one must remove it.”

Zhou Yunlin hesitated, “What do you mean, Father?”

Zhou Xiangfu, cunning and shrewd, had no difficulty dealing with people, “The princess likes meddling in others’ marriages, doesn’t she? Isn’t she still unmarried herself?”

Zhou Yunlin’s eyes widened, swallowing nervously, “Father, what are you planning?”

“The prince of Mobei Kingdom is seeking a marriage alliance in Dalin, right? I think the princess would be a suitable match.” Sending her far away would keep her from interfering in others’ affairs.

Zhou Yunlin offered tea respectfully, “Father, that’s a brilliant move!”

Zhou Xiangfu remained calm and composed, showing no hint of his impending scheming. “Play the game well, and this plan is almost certain to succeed.”

Zhou Yunlin raised his eyebrows and smiled. He had learned another trick.

In the Chu Village.

After returning home, everyone gathered in the living room, bringing out the ledger, money jar, and orders to count the day’s earnings.

Chu Qingzhi reviewed the orders, Shen Ruyue checked the ledger, and the others counted the money.

Li Qingyu emptied the money jar on the table, creating a small hill of coins clinking pleasantly.

Chu Xuyao dramatically remarked, “So much money!”

Chu Xuyan reminded him, “Hurry up and count. It’s late, and we have school tomorrow.”

“Got it.”

There were a total of 220 orders, varying in content, worth nearly 80,000 taels. The upcoming months would be incredibly busy.

According to the ledger, they had earned 730 taels for the day.

After counting, the total came to exactly 730 taels, matching the ledger.

Chu Xuyao passed the money jar to Li Qingyu, “Mother, here’s the money.”

Li Qingyu had always been in charge of the family’s finances.

“Okay,” she responded, her heart blooming with joy..

Chapter 495: Teaching the Princess a Lesson

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

Chu Qingyue finished tallying her accounts. Having sold about 500 taels worth of goods that day, she nearly cleared out her store’s inventory.

She also had ten fabric orders to fulfill. The weaving workshop that Ning Yuting had bought from the Shen family was handed over to Chu Qingyue to manage.

Today, she tried selling some newly woven fabric from the workshop and unexpectedly received orders.

“If only we could earn as much as today every day,” she hoped.

Chu Qingzhi brought over a box, stored the orders inside, handed it to Shen Ruyue, then turned to speak with Chu Qingyue.

“The first day is always the best for business, but the following days won’t be too bad. Business is unpredictable, so just maintain a steady approach.”

Chu Qingyue nodded, “Looking forward to better business tomorrow.”

At the inn.

After Li Changle returned to the inn, she felt that she was sure to beat Chu Qingzhi this time. She was very proud and happy.

She took out a brazier, tore off the cover of the plan book she had taken from Chu Qingzhi, lit it, and threw it into the brazier.

The flames quickly licked clean the page, casting a flickering light on Li Changle’s face that made it look twisted.

“Chu Qingzhi, our feud is far from over!” she declared.

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Li Changle tore off another page, throwing it into the brazier, reigniting the fading flames.

Page by page, the plan book was torn and tossed into the brazier, consumed by fire and turned to ash.

The flames were reflected on Li Changle’s pitch-black eyes.

“Does the princess really have so much leisure time? To come to this small county just to burn a plan book of little importance seems rather overblown,” Chu Qingzhi’s calm voice filled the air.

Li Changle’s heart skipped a beat. Chu Qingzhi had indeed recognized her. She quickly calmed down. “Since you’re here, don’t hide!”

In the next second, Chu Qingzhi appeared in front of Li Changle, grabbed her by the throat, and slowly lifted her.

Li Changle grabbed Chu Qingzhi’s hand that was holding her neck with both hands. Her feet gradually left the ground, and the suffocating feeling slowly overwhelmed her.

She had a feeling that Chu Qingzhi would really kill her.

At that moment, she understood Chu Qingzhi’s terror – capable of killing her effortlessly, while she was powerless.

Chu Qingzhi looked at Li Changle’s increasingly purple face and said coldly, “If you weren’t a princess, you would have died hundreds of times in my hands!”

Li Changle kicked her legs. Her face had already turned purple. She was struggling to breathe.

Chu Qingzhi threw her away, smashing her into a chair and breaking it into pieces. Li Changle lay in pain, unable to move for a long time.

Xia Wei, who was next door, was shocked by the commotion. She instinctively wanted to check on the princess, but she retracted her hand just as it was about to touch the door. It was better to pretend not to hear it.

In the room, Chu Qingzhi looked at the ashes in the brazier, “Being a princess, yet engaging in petty thefts and lowly acts, if this gets out…”

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She pointed at the princess’s face. “I’m afraid you will bring disgrace to the entire royal family.”

Did Chu Qingzhi think that she didn’t want to fight openly? It was just that her ability was limited and she had no choice. Otherwise, she would have killed her long ago.

Li Changle’s face turned red from the mockery. She looked at Chu Qingzhi as if she was looking at an insurmountable mountain. The powerlessness in her heart slowly swallowed her, and she was too ashamed to show her face.

Chu Qingzhi turned around and sat on the chair. Her posture was beautiful, and her movements were elegant and noble. “You became enemies with me because of Jinghong, but do you know why Jinghong doesn’t like you?”

This was Li Changle’s sorest point. She suddenly looked up, “Why? Even though I met Jinghong first, he still chose you over me.”

“What else do you have besides being a princess?” Chu Qingzhi didn’t know why Jinghong disliked the princess; she just wanted to persuade her to let go.

Princesses can’t be killed or fall ill.

If the princess dies mysteriously, the emperor, for the sake of the dignity of the royal family, would investigate thoroughly, and ultimately, this job would fall on Tang Jinghong.

The court ministers have been looking for a reason to bring him down. If the princess’s cause of death remains unknown, he would definitely face impeachment or similar accusations.

If the princess falls ill, the emperor will surely have Chu Qingzhi treat her. Should she treat her at that time? Treating her is repulsive, but not treating her could provoke the emperor’s displeasure and lead to covert retaliation.

Li Changle tried to counter this but realized she was speechless.

Indeed, besides her title as a princess, what else does she have?

“Li Changle, no man likes to be oppressed by a woman, especially a capable man. Moreover, such men particularly dislike relying on women. They want women who depend on them or stand shoulder to shoulder with them.”

“The former earns a man’s protection and affection, while the latter not only gets protection and affection but also respect.”

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“Which category do you belong to?”

Li Chang Le was lost in thought. She didn’t fit into either category.

“Li Changle, return to the palace. Let go of Tang Jinghong and find someone who belongs to you.” If Li Changle still refuses to listen, she could only think of a way to marry her far off.

With that, Chu Qingzhi left in a flash.

Li Chang Le collapsed on the floor, crying. Her sobs, high and low, echoed in the room, sounding heartbreakingly sad.

Can she just let go of her five-year love for Jinghong?

In the Chu Village.

“Qingzhi.” Tang Jinghong sat on the rooftop, watching as a figure approached from a distance. n/ô/vel/b//in dot c//om

“What are you doing here?” Chu Qingzhi flew over.

Tang Jinghong pulled her hand, inviting her to sit beside him. “The rooftop offers a good view. I can see you coming right away.”

Chu Qingzhi leaned against Tang Jinghong’s broad chest, gazing at the starry sky. “Did you need me for something?”

Tang Jinghong took a sealed jar of peach blossom wine, its pleasant aroma wafting through the air. “A friend sent me some spring-brewed peach blossom wine. I wanted you to try it.”

Chu Qingzhi examined the jar, “Let’s drink the wine later. 1 want to tell you something.”

“What is it?”

Chu Qingzhi turned to look at Tang Jinghong, his sharply defined jaw catching her eye. She thought to herself, Jinghong is really handsome from every angle. “I just went to see the princess.”

“The princess?” Tang Jinghong was surprised. “The princess came to Shuiyun County?”

“Yes, she even schemed against me. 1 had to teach her a lesson; otherwise, I couldn’t take this lying down.”

Tang Jinghong chuckled, “Why did she come?”

Chu Qingzhi touched his face, “Of course, it was for you. She stole my plan book and arranged for human traffickers to tarnish the reputation of the food festival. She really went to great lengths.”

A dark glint flashed in Tang Jinghong’s eyes, “I’ll find a way to send her back and ensure she doesn’t appear in front of you again..”

Chapter 496: Monk Blessing

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

He rarely disliked any girl, but the princess was the first.

Chu Qingzhi didn’t pursue how Tang Jinghong planned to handle it. She uncorked the peach blossom wine and, using her spiritual power, formed two cups to pour the wine. Handing one to Tang Jinghong, she said, “To keep it simple, well use these.”

The cups formed from spiritual power were crystal clear, resembling colorless glass. Tang Jinghong held the cup, fascinated for a moment, before downing it in one gulp.

The liquor was spicy with a faint peach blossom fragrance, appearing to be a light peach red, very pleasing to the eye.

“Delicious,” Chu Qingzhi commented after sipping the wine.

Tang Jinghong held out his cup for a refill, “His family has been brewing wine for a hundred years, and their techniques are mature. Every type of wine is delicious.”

Chu Qingzhi joked, “If only I could poach their master brewer to make wine for me.”

Tang Jinghong chuckled, “That’s impossible. The master brewer is their own person.”

Chu Qingzhi smiled, her eyes curving beautifully, “Yujun is also good. With more training, she’ll definitely be no less than the master brewer.”

“You have good people under your command.”

Chu Qingzhi continued drinking, “Of course. I don’t want anyone who isn’t good.”

Tang Jinghong gazed at her intently and asked softly, “Am I good?”

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“You?” Chu Qingzhi laughed, locking eyes with Tang Jinghong, her smile sparkling like stars, “You’re especially good.”

Tang Jinghong smiled and leaned in to kiss her, “You’re also incredibly good. Sometimes you seem so ethereal, 1 fear 1 can’t hold onto you.”

Chu Qingzhi’s heart fluttered, and she grasped Tang Jinghong’s hand, “1’11 always be by your side.”

Tang Jinghong smiled softly, “Yes.”

Returning home, Tang Jinghong immediately wrote a secret letter and sent it to the emperor overnight.

After learning about it, the emperor immediately had the princess brought back to the palace and confined her.

At Guangxi Garden.

As the sun rose, golden rays of light bathed the surroundings in a warm glow.

Guangxi Garden opened early, with merchants arriving to set up their goods. They entered and exited through the back door, turning the usually quiet alley into a bustling area with the sound of wheels and voices.

The front door was for customers. As soon as it opened, a continuous stream of people flowed in and out.

Several traveling merchants approached Chu Xujin, “Young man, we’re looking for the person in charge. Is she available?” Nôv(el)B\\jnn

Seeing that these people were serious, Chu Xujin immediately agreed. “I’ll bring you there immediately.”

Chu Qingzhi was helping set up the stall. Without the need to display goods today, she was relatively free.

“Fifth Sister, they’re looking for you.”

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The merchants were surprised to see that the person in charge was a young lady, but they quickly composed themselves and greeted her politely, “Greetings, miss.”

Chu Qingzhi glanced at them and said politely, “Just tell me what you want. 1 won’t decline if I can help.”

One merchant said, “We’d like your help in displaying our goods. We’re willing to pay ten silver taels.”

“Us too. Please help us.”

With nothing much to do and money to be made, Chu Qingzhi agreed, “Show me your goods, and I’ll decide.”

“Right this way, please.”

There were various merchants selling cotton, spices, tea leaves, etc. The quality of their goods was quite good.

Chu Qingzhi inspected the cotton, which was well-dried, clean, and soft. With winter approaching, it was time to prepare for the colder months.

“How much for this cotton?”

The merchant replied, “If you want it, 1 have a total of fifty catties here. 1’11 charge you four copper coins per catty, making it twenty taels in total. Deducting the ten taels for displaying the goods, you only need to pay me ten taels.”

Chu Qingzhi promptly bought the cotton, handing the merchant ten silver taels.

“You can set up your stall near the stage; there’s no other space left. Wait here for now. I’ll see if anyone else wants their goods displayed. We’ll gather them together and display them all at once.”

“Thank you.”

After waiting half an hour, about a dozen more people came to ask for displaying their goods, each paying ten taels. Chu Qingzhi collected the money and started to display the goods on stage.

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Everything she displayed sold well, as she had carefully selected each item.

She wouldn’t display poor-quality goods to maintain the reputation for future festivals

A young monk pointed at the gate of Guangxi Garden, his round eyes filled with interest, “Master, this place looks lively. Shall we go in and have a look?”

“Let’s go.” The abbot, kind and compassionate, led the young monk into Guangxi Garden.

They had been traveling and visiting various places, and today they came to Shuiyun County and stumbled upon Guangxi Garden.

Upon entering, the young monk was mesmerized by the beautiful paintings, lanterns, and many stalls with numerous people.

The appearance of the monks attracted attention, as it was unusual to see them in such a secular place. People in Dalin respected monks and Daoists, believing they could communicate with the divine.

Someone joked, “Master, are you planning to set up a stall and offer blessings?”

The abbot smiled warmly, “If anyone wishes, 1 can offer blessings.”

Traveling and taking care of the young monk was expensive, and they had run out of money. The abbot was considering begging in a few days.

People immediately offered a spot for the abbot, making space near Li Qingyu’s stall and placing two meditation cushions under a banyan tree, “Master, young master, please sit.”

The young monk, unsure of what was happening, followed the abbot’s lead and sat down. In a sweet voice, he asked the crowd, “Do you want blessings?”

“Yes, little master. Canyon offer blessings?”

With innocent eyes, the young monk replied, “Yes. You should put two more cushions in front of me or my master to sit on while receiving blessings.”

So two more cushions were brought and placed in front of them. “Is this okay now?”

The young monk nodded, speaking softly, “It’s okay now.”

A slender young man sat on the cushion in front of the young monk, asking for a blessing. He placed a silver tael in front of the young monk as an offering.

Seeing the silver tael, the abbot had mixed feelings. In the secular world, looks mattered. The young monk, cute and appealing, was attracting more attention than him. At their temple, people would line up from the top of the mountain to the bottom just to see him.

The young monk took out a wooden fish and prayer beads, chanting a blessing mantra with apparent skill and grace.

Watching this, the abbot felt proud. His disciple was showing promise..

Chapter 497 - 497: Inspecting the Stall Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

Chu Qingzhi finished displaying everyone’s goods and decided to inspect the stalls. As a responsible organizer, it was essential to ensure everything was running smoothly.

Accompanied by Fan Yuru and Rong Shiyu, she headed towards the lakeside.

The clinic had enough staff, so Fan Yuru and Rong Shiyu, wanting to slack off a bit and spend time with Chu Qingzhi, took this opportunity to chat and explore.

Approaching the lake, they were attracted by the sound of a wooden fish being played by a young monk and his master.

Surrounded by a crowd, only the rhythmic sound of the wooden fish could be heard.

Fan Yuru joked, “The charm of the food festival is evident, even monks are here.”

Chu Qingzhi scanned the crowd with her divine sense and spotted someone familiar.

Rong Shiyu stepped forward and looked through the gaps. She could not see anything. She turned around and smiled helplessly at the two of them.

Chu Qingzhi called out, “Little master.”

The wooden fish sound stopped, and an excited, youthful voice responded, “Benefactor Chu!”

The crowd parted, revealing a cute, round-faced little monk wearing a gray monk’s robe and beads. His bright eyes sparkled as he bowed, “Benefactor Chu!”

Chu Qingzhi returned the bow, “Little master, you still remember me?”

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“I remember! You sent me lots of delicious food with the eagle. 1 remember it well.” The young monk’s eyes stayed glued to Chu Qingzhi, eagerly saying, “Benefactor Chu, are you busy? I can offer you a blessing.”

“Sure.” Chu Qingzhi looked at the person sitting in front of the monk, “Has he finished yet? Should I wait for him to finish before we start?”

The man, seeing it was Chu Qingzhi, immediately vacated his spot, saying, “Please, Miss Chu, I can receive the blessing later.”

“Thank you.” Chu Qingzhi smiled at the man and then bowed to the abbot before sitting on the cushion.

The little monk sat opposite Chu Qingzhi and swept his gaze over Chu Qingzhi’s wrist. When he saw Chu Qingzhi wearing the prayer beads he had given her, he was even happier. He was ready and immediately started praying.

The rhythmic sound of the wooden fish echoed, accompanied by the gentle chanting of mantras, reminiscent of a mountain stream’s flow.

Chu Qingzhi closed her eyes and let herself relax.

The abbot watched this scene with a gentle gaze but felt a bit sour inside, as his disciple had never been so good to him.

The blessing lasted for about fifteen minutes.

Afterward, the young monk concluded with a prayer, “May all sentient beings be born in ultimate bliss. Benefactor Chu, may your good fortune increase and be boundless.”

Chu Qingzhi thanked him, “Thank you, little master.” She stood up, “Let’s have lunch together at noon. I’ll come to find you after 1 finish my work.”

The young monk beamed with happiness, “Okay, I’ll wait for you here.”

Chu Qingzhi bowed to the abbot, “I hope the abbot will honor us with his presence.”

The abbot nodded in thanks, “Thank you, Benefactor Chu.”

After the matter was settled, Chu Qingzhi and the two girls continued to patrol the stall.

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After walking for a while, Rong Shiyu said with admiration, “Qingzhi, you have too many friends. You even know the abbot of the Southern Mountain Temple and let him agree to eat with you.”

The abbot’s status was such that even the emperor had to treat him with utmost respect. But when Chu Qingzhi spoke to him, it was like conversing with a peer, just like friends.

It’s incredible!

Fan Yuru took over the conversation, “Yes, Chu Qingzhi, my father wanted to meet the abbot last time. He waited a whole day and even invited the abbot for a meal, but the abbot directly refused. However, when you asked, the abbot agreed almost without hesitation. You really have a lot of influence.”

Both women had to revise their understanding of Chu Qingzhi after this conversation.n/ô/vel/b//in dot c//om

Chu Qingzhi smiled, “I didn’t really do much, just sent some food to the little monk with the eagle.”

Perhaps the young monk was happy, so the elder one was too. The abbot’s affection for the young monk was evident, almost like treating his own grandson.

Chu Qingzhi patted their shoulders, “We’ll talk about this later. Let’s focus on the task at hand.”

At that moment, an argument broke out ahead.

“Our shop, buy from us!”

“Our shop, buy from us!”

Two shop assistants were pulling a customer’s arms in opposite directions, causing the customer’s face to contort in discomfort.

“Miss Chu is here…” A voice called out, and the crowd quickly parted.

Chu Qingzhi stepped forward, “What’s happening?”

The assistant from the left shop said, “The customer was clearly planning to buy from our shop, but he insisted on pulling the customer away to buy from their shop.”

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The assistant from the right shop retorted angrily, “That’s nonsense, it was clear the customer wanted to buy from our shop, and you pulled him away.” “Obviously, he was planning to buy from our shop…”

“No, he was buying from our shop…”

The two assistants started to argue and pull at each other again, refusing to give in.

Chu Qingzhi, feeling a headache coming on from listening to them, demanded, “Stop!”

She looked at both assistants sternly, “Both of you, let go of him!”

Reluctantly, they released the customer, who immediately stood next to Chu Qingzhi, relieved.

He had no doubt that if the assistants were strong enough, they could have torn him in half.

Chu Qingzhi asked the customer, “Sir, can you explain what happened?”

This was a dispute between two jade ornament stalls located side by side.

The customer explained, “1 first looked at the left stall and liked a jade gourd. Since I have two sons, I wanted to buy two. They only had one, so 1 went to the right stall, which also had one. I was planning to buy one from each. However, they both thought the other was stealing a customer and started pulling me without letting me explain.”

Hearing this, both assistants seemed a bit embarrassed and lowered their heads.

“If you had let the customer explain earlier, this wouldn’t have happened.”

Both assistants, feeling even more ashamed, agreed, “We understand, it won’t happen again.”

Chu Qingzhi asked the customer, “Now that the misunderstanding is resolved, do you still want to make a purchase?”

The customer hesitated.

The shopkeepers of both stalls came over and, after understanding the situation, decided to sell the jade gourds, priced at ten taels each, for nine taels to the customer as a gesture of goodwill. They agreed to settle the matter amicably, believing in harmonious relations for mutual profit.

The customer was pleased that he had saved two silver taels.

After paying, he happily left with his purchases.

The shopkeepers thanked Chu Qingzhi, acknowledging that her intervention had prevented a potential fight.

Chu Qingzhi gave them a few words of advice about maintaining a peaceful and cooperative environment for shared profit and continued her inspection..

Chapter 498 - 498: Arrival of Relatives Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

Li Qingyu greeted with a smile, “Sister-in-law, second sister-in-law, you’ve arrived?”

Fan Limei, the sister-in-law, looked at Li Qingyu enviously, “Third sister-in-law, I heard this food festival is organized by your family?”

Li Qingyu proudly admitted, “Yes, it was organized by Qingzhi. We are just participating.”

“You’re lucky to have such an accomplished daughter. Unlike ours, who can only do some household chores.”

“Everyone has their own strengths.”

Cao Zhilan, the second sister-in-law, complained, “I heard you’ve hired quite a few people to help. Why didn’t you notify us? We’re family; shouldn’t we help each other?”

Li Qingyu’s smile faded. After hearing this, she did not want to talk to them anymore. “Sister-in-law, Second Sister-in-law, I’m very busy here. Please feel free to look around the garden.”

“No need. We’ll stay and help you.” As she spoke, Fan Limei rolled up her sleeves and came over to help greet the customers.

Li Qingyu quickly stopped her. “Sister-in-law, I can handle it here. There’s no need.”

“Don’t stand on ceremony. We’re family.” Fan Limei avoided Li Qingyu and walked to the side to greet the customers.

There were too many customers. Li Qingyu could not stop her sister-in-laws at all.

Cao Zhilan joined in as well, greeting a customer, “What would you like to buy?”

Li Qingyu stood on the spot and watched helplessly. There were so many customers, so it was not good to make things too ugly. She could only let the two of them do whatever they wanted. However, she was very annoyed.

Along with Fan Limei and Cao Zhilan, came ten-year-old Li Hongfeng and nineteen-year-old Li Fengzhi, who was taking care of a three-year-old boy.

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The boy, seeing the food, excitedly broke free from Li Fengzhi’s hold and grabbed an apple pie, biting into it voraciously.

Him taking the apple pie, costing two taels each, made Li Qingyu even more annoyed. “Li Fengzhi, keep an eye on him.”

Li Fengzhi was extremely embarrassed by Li Qingyu’s words. “Third Aunt, he’s just a child. He doesn’t know anything. Please don’t mind him.”

Cao Zhilan said disapprovingly, “Yes, Third Sister-in-law, you don’t have to be so petty, right? It’s just a pastry.”

“That pastry costs two taels each,” Li Qingyu retorted, upset that they were eating without asking and acting so entitled.

When they heard this, they couldn’t help but click their tongues. Two taels each was too expensive. At the same time, they were even more jealous. Li Qingyu’s family must be earning a lot of money, right?

Trying to ease the situation, Cao Zhilan laughed it off, “The child has already eaten it, so let’s not make a fuss. We won’t do it again.” As she spoke, she gave Li Fengzhi a look.

Li Fengzhi quickly took the boy away.

Seeing Li Qingyu’s continued displeasure, Fan Limei offered, “We’ll work for you for a day to make up for it, okay?”

Li Qingyu, fed up, said bluntly, “No need, please leave.”

Their actions froze awkwardly, and Fan Limei, feeling slighted, said, “Third sister-in-law, there’s no need to be like this.”

Chu Rong walked over. He was tall and strong. Standing there, he had a very oppressive presence. “Sister-in-law, Second Sister-in-law, we don’t need anyone’s help here.”

No matter how shameless the two of them were, they could not stay any longer. “Fine, fine, we’re leaving. Who cares anyway.”

They walked away, complaining loudly.

Li Hongfeng tugged at Fan Limei’s sleeve, “Mom, 1 want to eat that layered thing,” referring to a sandwich.

Fan Limei, irritated, slapped her hand away and scolded, “All you think about is eating. Didn’t you see we were asked to leave?”

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Li Hongfeng looked back longingly at the stall and suddenly dashed towards it, grabbing a sandwich and running off.

“Hey…” Li Qingyu watched Li Hongfeng’s figure with annoyance, thinking, ‘If she had just asked, I would have given it to her. Why steal?’

Li Qingyu, frustrated and with a headache, thought, ‘What kind of relatives are they?’

Chu Rong and the others also glared angrily.

Seeing Li Hongfeng eating a sandwich and then looking back at the stall, Fan Limei quickly walked away as she noticed Li Qingyu and the others glaring in their direction.

Fan Limei complained, “Really, Li Qingyu is getting more stingy. It’s just a pastry, and she looked at us like she wanted to hit us.”

Cao Zhilan agreed, “Exactly. They’re so rich, what’s wrong with eating a little of their things? They’ve become snobby since they got wealthy.”

Fan Limei sarcastically added, “Maybe they think they’re too good for us poor relatives now!”

Cao Zhilan snorted, “What goes around comes around. Can they guarantee they’ll be wealthy forever? They look down on us now, but they’ve forgotten how poor they were before!”

The two continued their sour comments as they walked away.

When Li Qingyin arrived with her two children, Li Qingyu and the others had already calmed down and were busy selling their goods.

“Third sister, brother-in-law, uncle, auntie,” Li Qingyin greeted everyone cheerfully.

The two children also greeted the elders obediently. Their voices were sweet and likable.

Li Qingyin handed each child a sandwich, “Here, you can eat these.”

Li Qingyu stopped her, “Qingyin, your goods are for sale. Don’t give them to the children. They’re not hungry.”

The children shyly hid behind Li Qingyin, shaking their heads, refusing to take the sandwiches.

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Li Qingyu insisted, “Take it and eat, be good.”

Finally, Xu Songnian and Xu Wenlin accepted the sandwiches, thanking her, “Thank you, Auntie.”

Li Qingyu directed them to some chairs, “There are seats over there if you want to sit.”

Xu Songnian politely declined, “You’re busy, auntie. Don’t worry about us.”

Li Qingyu nodded and then turned to Li Qingyin, “I see you brought a basket. Is it empty?”

Li Qingyin put down her basket, uncovering it, “These are mushrooms, fungus, and tea shoots the children picked at the foot of the mountain. I’m hoping to sell them.”

“You’ll surely find buyers. Let’s set them up for sale,” Li Qingyu said, finding a small table, covering it with cloth, and helping Li Qingyin arrange the items.

As soon as they were displayed, a customer approached to inquire.

Many people enjoyed wild mountain products, and a customer asked about the tea shoots, “These look fresh. How much are they?”

Li Qingyin shyly responded, “It’s my first time selling, so please feel free to offer a price.”

The customer, finding Li Qingyin honest and straightforward, asked about the quantity, “How many catties of tea shoots do you have?”

“About five catties,” Li Qingyin replied.

“How about two taels of silver for the five catties?” the customer offered.

“Okay, okay.” Li Qingyin took the opportunity to say, “Aunt, do you need anything else? These mushrooms and fungus have just been picked. They’re very fresh.”

The auntie took a look and saw that they were indeed not bad. “How about this? I’ll give you five taels of silver. Can you sell them all to me?”n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

Li Qingyin said happily, “Thank you, Auntie. Where is your house? I’ll send it to you.”

There were a lot of things, so it was not easy to take them home. The auntie felt that Li Qingyin was sensible, so she agreed with a smile. “Alright, let’s go.”

Li Qingyin packed her things back into the basket. “Third Sister, I’ll send the goods. I’ll come and look for you later.”

Li Qingyu nodded. “Be careful. Let the children play here.”

“Sure.”

Li Qingyin left with the auntie..

Chapter 499: Three to One for Fake

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

A silk and satin shopkeeper saw Chu Qingzhi walking by and hurriedly greeted her, “Miss Chu.”

Chu Qingzhi smiled and nodded, “Shopkeeper Xia.”

Shopkeeper Xia was delighted that Chu Qingzhi remembered him among the hundred or so shopkeepers in Guangxi Garden, “My business for the past two days is equivalent to half a year, thanks to Miss Chu’s help.”

Chu Qingzhi humbly replied, “It’s because Shopkeeper Xia’s products are good,

I just played a role in advertising.”

Shopkeeper Xia expressed his gratitude, “Still, I have to thank Arliss Chu for organizing the food festival.”

Chu Qingzhi smiled and said, “I hope Shopkeeper Xia’s business will become more and more prosperous.”

After chatting for a while, Chu Qingzhi continued to patrol.

“Hello, Miss Chu.”

“Hello, Miss Chu.”

“Hello, Miss Chu.”

When Chu Qingzhi passed by the small stalls, everyone greeted her, as if she was the sugar mommy. They were friendly and grateful.

Fan Yuru and Rong Shiyu felt that they were already very popular, but Chu Qingzhi’s popularity showed them what real popularity was. Almost everyone would greet her. The places she passed by were always the center. It was amazing.

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“Miss Chu, please wait.” Zhou Yunlin caught up.

Chu Qingzhi turned around and saw a low-key and extremely rich middle-aged man. The accessories on his head, the clothes he was wearing, the prayer beads in his hand, and the boots on his feet were all the best things in the Baling Dynasty.

“First Master Zhou.”

Zhou Yunlin was Zhou Xiangfu’s eldest son. He smiled and said, “I didn’t tell you I’m the eldest. How did you guess?”

Chu Qingzhi smiled and said, “You told me yourself.”

Zhou Yunlin was puzzled. “When?”

There was a tea stall nearby. Chu Qingzhi brought Zhou Yunlin to the small tea stall and sat down. “When out doing business, the only person that can be with Old Master Zhou is the eldest son.”

Zhou Yunlin poured the tea and smiled. “It seems like 1 was indeed the one who told you.”

Chu Qingzhi looked at the teacup Zhou Yunlin placed in front of her. “First Master Zhou, if you have anything to say, just say it.”

Zhou Yunlin drank the tea and said, “1 heard that Miss Chu needs a lot of glutinous rice, flour, and grains. Coincidentally, our Zhou family can provide it. What do you think, Miss Chu?”

Chu Qingzhi glanced at Zhou Yunlin, knowing that her family’s grain needs were a mere trifle for the Zhou family. She just didn’t know why he wanted to collaborate with her.

“Sorry, I already have a supplier,” she said.

Zhou Yunlin, curious, asked, “May 1 know who?”

Chu Qingzhi openly shared, “The Ning family from the capital.”

Ning Yuting’s family business was also very big, but it was much smaller than Zhou family’s. It was about one-tenth of Zhou family’s business.

Zhou Yunlin, aware of the business landscape in the capital, knew exactly which family it was, “May 1 ask why Miss Chu chose the Ning family?”

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Chu Qingzhi explained, “Ning Yuting from the Ning family is my second sister’s fiance.”

So that was the case. Zhou Yunlin couldn’t help but want to ask if Chu Qingzhi still had any unmarried siblings. Becoming in-laws with the Chu family would make their relationship more stable. “Sorry to disturb you, Miss Chu.”

“It’s ok, First Master Zhou.” Chu Qingzhi stood up and bade farewell, leaving the tea stall with the two girls.

A young man in green stood in front of a small stall. He looked furious and said indignantly, “The golden bracelet you sold me is fake. 1 want a triple refund.”

Many people immediately gathered around to watch the commotion.

When the shop assistant saw this, he immediately said loudly, “Don’t slander us. What we sell at our stall is real. It can’t be fake.”

The young man in green took out a piece of paper and wiped it with the golden bracelet, leaving a golden mark on the paper. “Is this real? Will real gold lose its color just like that?”

The shop assistant looked at the young man in green. “What proof do you have that this was bought from our stall?”

The young man in green took out a piece of paper from his pocket and said reasonably, “I have the receipt written by your shopkeeper.”

The shop assistant looked at the receipt. “The receipt is correct, but how can you prove that the golden bracelet was bought from our stall?”

When the young man in green heard this, he immediately became anxious. “Are you accusing me of deliberately forging a fake golden bracelet to deceive you?” n/ô/vel/b//jn dot c//om

The shop assistant said, “Maybe.”

The young man in green didn’t know what to do. “This golden bracelet was bought from your stall. How can you not admit it?”

The shop assistant said, “As long as you can prove it’s bought from us, I guarantee that I’ll give you a triple refund. Our shop has been in this line of business for a long time. We definitely won’t ruin our reputation for a golden bracelet.”

The young man in green was anxious. “The golden bracelet can’t speak. How can I prove it?”

“Miss Chu is here…”

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The crowd immediately made way.

Chu Qingzhi looked around. “Why are you guys gathered here?”

The young man in green rushed in front of Chu Qingzhi and raised the golden bracelet. “Miss Chu, they sold fake goods. I came to return it, but they said that it doesn’t belong to their shop.”

Chu Qingzhi held the golden bracelet in her hand and looked at it. “This golden bracelet is indeed fake.” She looked at the shop assistant. “Do you have any special symbols or marks on the things in your shop?”

The shop assistant immediately nodded. “Yes.” He took the golden bracelet and looked at it. “All the gold jewelry made by our shop will be engraved with a peony flower, but this golden bracelet doesn’t.”

He picked up a gold ring from the stall and pointed at the inside of the gold ring for Chu Qingzhi to see. “This is it.”

The young man in green flipped the golden bracelet around and really didn’t see a carving. His expression turned very ugly. “But this golden bracelet was indeed bought from your stall.”

After he said that, he ran to look at the gold ornaments one by one. The shop assistant did not lie to him. Every one of them had carvings.

“How could this be? How could this be?”

Chu Qingzhi gently inquired, “After you purchased the gold bracelet, did it ever leave your sight, or did anything unusual happen?”

The young man in green fell into deep thought. After a while, he remembered. “On the way back, I met someone. We bumped into each other and the things in our hands fell to the ground at the same time…”

The shop assistant interrupted, “The gold bracelet you bought must have been swapped at that time.”

The young man in green did not refute her. He looked at the fake bracelet in his hand and fell into endless regret. After a while, he said, “Miss Chu, is there a way to find it?”

Chu Qingzhi said, “Do you remember what that person looked like?”

“I only took a brief glance at that person…” The young man in green tried his best to recall. “He had a mole near the corner of his mouth and was quite burly. I almost got knocked over by him.”

Chu Qingzhi said, “I’ll try my best to help you find it. Where is your house? If I find it, I’ll send it to you.”

The young man in green immediately told Chu Qingzhi the address. “Thank you, Miss Chu.”

The three of them continued walking.

Fan Yuru asked, “Qingzhi, can you find this person with just these two characteristics?”

Chu Qingzhi shook her head slowly. “I’m not sure. Let’s try.”

Fan Yuru sympathetically said, “He bought a real item, but it got unintentionally swapped with someone on the way. If I were the other person, 1 would be wild with joy to have this lucky find..”

Chapter 500: Murder

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om

Rong Shiyu looked at Fan Yuru and said, “The man who swapped bracelets definitely got lucky, but the one who lost it must be feeling terrible now.” “Indeed,” Fan Yuru agreed.

After completing their inspection of the stalls, Chu Qingzhu bid farewell to the two women and returned to the backstage room. She drew a red poster, eye-catching and written with “Gold Bracelet Exchange”, and then cast a spell. If the person who swapped bracelets with the young man saw the poster, they would return the bracelet.

The poster was placed at the main entrance.

People entering and exiting glanced at it, puzzled by its meaning, not understanding the purpose of “Gold Bracelet Exchange.

Chu Xuhua, curious, asked Chu Qingzhu about it, to which she replied, “Fishing,” leaving everyone even more baffled.

The food festival proceeded smoothly, and in the afternoon, a burly man approached Chu Qingzhu, appearing uneasy, “I’ve come to exchange the gold bracelet.”

He handed over a gold bracelet to Chu Qingzhu.

Chu Qingzhi took a look. There was a peony carving on it. It was the one that the young man in green had lost.

She handed the golden bracelet that the young man in green had left with her to the big man. “Sorry to let you make a trip.”

The burly man took the golden bracelet and left. In the end, it wasn’t his. Ever since he saw the painting, he had fallen into unease. Now that he had exchanged it, he felt refreshed.

Chu Qingzhi asked Chu Xujin to send the golden bracelet to the young man in green, and this matter was settled.

A tragedy struck at home!

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Li Zhangjie ran to the food festival in panic, seeking Chu Qingzhu, “Sister Qingzhu, Zhou Da is dead!!!”

In the backstage room, just as Chu Qingzhu sat down to rest, she became serious upon hearing this, “How did he die? When did this happen?”

Li Zhangjie hurriedly explained, “I don’t know how he died. Before I came here, the Zhou family brought his body to our house. I didn’t know what to do, so I immediately came to find you.”

Chu Qingzhu stood up and went to the main entrance, whispering to Chu Xuhua and Ge Lihua. They immediately left with serious expressions.

Chu Qingzhu couldn’t leave the festival, so she sent her third brother and Ge Lihua to handle the situation, seeing it as an opportunity for them to gain experience.

Chu Qingyue, sensing the tense atmosphere, asked, “Fifth Sister, what happened?”

Not wanting the matter to mess up the food festival, Chu Qingzhi said in a relaxed tone, “Something happened at the government office. They went back to settle it.”

Chu Qingyue nodded. “The government office is indeed busy with matters.”

Once the two of them left, the workload increased.. Tang Jinghong and Third Master Lu came over to take their places.

Chu Qingzhi sat at the side. It was impossible for Zhou Da to die from his injuries. How could he die?

Chu Xuhua and Ge Lihua returned to the government office to report the case. Then, they rushed home with the coroner and constables.

Zhou Da’s body was laid at the entrance of the Chu family’s courtyard on a stretcher, with his wife, parents, and son crying uncontrollably, surrounded by villagers from both Zhou and Chu villages.

“My son, you died so young, how can we live on?”

“Father, Father, wake up.”

“Zhou Da, you heartless man, leaving your wife and child behind, how can you rest in peace?”

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Village Chief Chu and Village Chief Zhou looked at each other with dissatisfaction.

Village Chief Chu said angrily, “If he’s dead, just bury him. How can you carry him to my village? It’s so disturbing.”

Village Chief Zhou’s tone was also very bad. “Do you think we want to come? Chu Qingzhi from your village said that if Zhou Da dies within three days, she will have to pay a hundred taels of silver. We’re here to get the money.” “A hundred taels of silver!! Could it be that you killed him?” Village Chief Chu looked at Zhou Da’s body, which was strong and sturdy, except for some injuries on the leg. How could he possibly be dead?

Village Chief Zhou suddenly raised his voice and explained, “Are we that crazy? Zhou Da died from a leg injury. It has nothing to do with us.”

Village Chief Chu snorted. “Who knows, it’s a hundred taels of silver after all.”

Village Chief Zhou’s face was as black as the bottom of a pot. “Don’t talk nonsense. Zhou Da died because his wound wasn’t treated properly.”

Village Chief Chu asked, “Who treated the wound?”

Village Chief Zhou said angrily, “How would I know? I wasn’t the one who sent him for treatment.”

At this moment, a large number of constables surrounded them. Seeing this, the villagers hurriedly retreated and stood far away.

Chu Xujin’s face was cold as he said imposingly, “We’ve already reported this case. The government will take over now.”

Zhou Da’s wife immediately scolded loudly, “Report what case? We didn’t report it! If you compensate us with silver, we’ll forget about this matter.”

Chu Xujin said in a businesslike manner, “We are the ones who reported it. If you want compensation from our family, shouldn’t we clarify the truth of the matter first?”

Zhou Da’s wife was very against reporting the case. She said shamelessly, “I don’t care. Anyway, it’s not your place to interfere in this matter. Don’t touch my husband.”

“Then take him back, don’t leave him at our doorstep,” Chu Xuhua said, noticing Zhou Da’s wife seemed more interested in the silver than in Zhou Da’s death, which seemed suspicious.

“Someone, pull them away.”

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The constables immediately went forward and pulled the crying people around Zhou Da to the side. Madam Zhou reacted violently, and two constables pulled her back.

“Don’t touch my husband, don’t touch him!”

“Why won’t you let him rest in peace?”

“Husband…”

Chu Xujin said politely to the coroner, “Sir, please check the cause of Zhou Da’s death.”

The coroner had brought a young disciple with him. The young disciple helped him carry the toolbox, and the two of them went forward to check.

After a round of examination, the coroner wrote the autopsy results on a piece of paper and handed it to Chu Xujin. “This is the cause of Zhou Da’s death.”

Chu Xujin quickly took a look and then looked at Zhou Da in surprise. He had actually suffocated to death. “Someone, the Zhou family is suspected of murder. Bring all these people to the government office and send Zhou Da to the mortuary.”

“Yes.”

The people of the Chu Village took a step back. “Murder? Murder of her own husband?”

Madam Zhou struggled and shouted, “Nonsense. Zhou Da died because his wound was not treated properly. How could it be murder?”

“Stupid officials, stupid officials, in order to exonerate yourselves, you distort the truth! You will be struck by lightning!!”

“Let go of me. 1 didn’t murder Zhou Da. He deliberately fabricated a lie. They refused to pay this hundred taels and framed innocent people.”

No matter what Madam Zhou said, the group was still escorted into the government office.

When the county magistrate heard that there was a murder case, he immediately took it seriously and ordered Chu Xujin to solve the case as soon as possible.

Chu Xujin looked at the autopsy results again and left the government office. He went to Guangxi Garden to find Chu Qingzhi. “Fifth Sister, Zhou Da died in the middle of the night last night from suffocation.”

Suffocation? Chu Qingzhi frowned. “What was the murder weapon? Motive? Objective? Any accomplices? Have you investigated thoroughly?”

Chu Xujin shook his head. “I’ll investigate immediately.”

Chu Qingzhi reminded, “When you go to investigate, you have to pay attention to the items at the scene. Don’t let go of any suspicious points.”

Chu Xujin nodded. “I understand..”