The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 230 Part 3 (End)

Four years later.  

    The streets were bustling with people. In Zhenzhu Alley, Lu Gu lifted the seven-year-old Lingjun onto the horse, where Shen Xuanqing, already mounted, took hold of his little shuang'er.  

    "Remember to go slow, and don’t be too wild," Lu Gu reminded them.  

    "I know, Amu," Lingjun said, his eyes bright and lively, the red mark between his brows like a painted huadian, making him more beautiful as he grew.  

[Huadian (花钿): a traditional Chinese ornamental facial makeup worn by women, typically painted or applied between the eyebrows or on other facial areas like cheeks or temples.]

    Despite being such a beautiful shuang’er, Shen Xuanqing insisted on teaching him martial arts, horseback riding, and archery. Wei Lanxiang always scolded her second son for it, but she couldn’t stop him.  

    Shen Xuanqing carried his longbow on his back, and the horse also bore Lingjun’s small bow and arrows. "We’ll be back by noon. Save some food for us, we’re not eating out today," he said.  

    "Alright," Lu Gu agreed. The chestnut horse trotted out of the alley.  

    Turning back inside, he saw Granny Hua washing clothes in the yard, while Mian’er, wearing a crooked tiger-head hat, pouted and played with water, his chubby cheeks puffed out. When Lu Gu came near, the little boy turned away, sticking his butt out toward his amu.  

    "Oh my, whose little tiger is angry?"  

    Lu Gu coaxed his son with a smile. At just four years old, Mian'er was still too small to go horseback riding or learn hunting, which had led to his tantrum earlier.  

    "Not Guzi’s."  

    The little one’s milky voice still carried anger, making Lu Gu and Granny Hua burst into laughter.  

    Squatting beside him, Lu Gu patted Mian’er’s butt and teased, "Not Guzi’s, huh? Then I’ll go buy sweets, if you’re not Guzi’s, you can’t have any."  

    Over the past few years, as Mian’er and Lingjun grew older, whenever someone asked whose children they were, Granny Hua had told them once, and they remembered.  

    "I’m Guzi’s," Mian’er immediately changed his tune.  

    Lu Gu adjusted the crooked little hat and said, "So you are? Then come with me to buy sweets, and we’ll visit Auntie and Lin’er. How does that sound?"  

    "Okay!" Mian’er clapped his chubby little hands happily.  

    Shen Yan and Gu Chengyue welcomed their son Gu Jinglin two years ago - the two-year-old boy was younger than Mian'er by two years.  

    Meanwhile, Shen Xuanqing rode with Lingjun. With his father there, Lingjun wasn’t afraid at all. Sitting high on the big horse, taller than everyone else, he was thrilled, even holding the reins with Shen Xuanqing.  

    For a shuang’er his age, riding a big horse already made him exceptionally bold.  

    In crowded areas, the horse slowed, making the pair impossible to miss.  

    A few sedan chairs passed by in the opposite direction. Shen Xuanqing, absorbed in his little shuang'er’s excitement, didn’t notice someone peeking at him through the sedan’s curtain.  

    The flow of people separated them, and the horse moved on.  

    Behind the curtain, Lu Wen clenched his handkerchief. The first sedan chair belonged to Old Lady Li, who had taken him, Luo Hongchou, and the two children to the temple to pray.  

    Hidden beneath the veil, his face bore bruises that hadn’t fully healed. A few days ago, Li Mingshan, drunk, had beaten and cursed at him. Even his children, seized by Old Lady Li years earlier, remained confined to the main courtyard, barred from his care.  

    During his pregnancy, he had bled, and the child was weak, often needing medicine—nothing like the lively, healthy child on horseback.  

    What tormented him most was his regret for trusting Li Mingshan’s sweet words back then.  

    Now, his child was distant, Li Mingshan treated him poorly, and though he appeared respectable outside, his life was far from easy. Du Hehua and Lu Daxiang constantly demanded money and grain. With limited income, he had to support them too, making life full of hardships.

    But in this world, there was no medicine for regret. No matter how unwilling or resentful he was, it was useless.  

    Lu Gu took his son out to play on the street. While buying a sugar figurine, he heard someone call his name. Turning around, he saw Li Wanyun with her daughter Wen’er going to buy oil.  

    Wen’er was three years old, with a little bun tied on her head. Since Luo Biao got a daughter, he couldn’t stop talking about her. Despite being a rough man, he couldn’t raise his voice around his little girl.  

    They were holding their children and exchanged a few cheerful words before going about their business.  

   When Lu Gu returned from the Gu family, carrying Mian’er home, he suddenly heard Lingjun calling him from behind.  

    "Amu! Amu!" The child shrieked with excitement, his voice rising to a high-pitched squeal.

    He turned around, his eyes sparkling with laughter, which caught the attention of the man on horseback.  

    When Lingjun reached Lu Gu, he eagerly seized the rabbits dangling from the saddle with both hands, his whole face alight with pride. "Amu, look! Dad and I hunted these!"  

    "So impressive!" Lu Gu cheered him on.  

    Shen Xuanqing dismounted and told Lingjun to hold the reins tightly. Seeing Mian’er fussing to ride the big horse, he placed his son on it and had Lingjun hold his little brother securely. Then, he led the horse forward alongside Lu Gu.  

   As they walked, he lowered his voice and said, "Last time we met Master Huitong, we talked about going to the temple to burn incense. I think, in a few days, we can send the two of them back home. Mother misses her grandsons too. I’ll take you out for a couple of days—traveling, sightseeing, staying overnight at the temple, and even eating vegetarian meals."  

    Hearing this, Lu Gu smiled, amused that their Erqing didn’t dare let the children hear they were going out to have fun. Still, he nodded with a grin and replied in an equally hushed voice, "Alright."  

    Amid the bustling crowd, the two exchanged a knowing smile, hiding a little secret that belonged only to them.  

-End-

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 230 Part 2

    Once Shen Yan’s wedding festivities concluded, it was time to return to Jixing Town.  

    Lu Gu and Lingjun rode in the carriage while Shen Xuanqing drove it at a leisurely pace. Shen Yaoqing had already left with another cart carrying poultry and Guaizi.  

    “This time, Auntie is in town too. If you miss her, you can just walk over to see her,” Lu Gu said cheerfully to Lingjun.  

    “Mm,” Lingjun nodded, then placed his small hand on Lu Gu’s belly before looking up. “Amu, where’s little sister?”  

    Lu Gu chuckled. “Little sister is sleeping. I’ll call you when she wakes up.”  

    The first time the baby kicked, he had let Lingjun feel it, and the child remembered. Now, he checked daily.  

    When Lu Gu and Shen Xuanqing had asked Lingjun whether he wanted a brother or sister, the child had agonized before spotting an adorable little girl on the street and insisting on a sister.  

    “Sit properly, the road ahead is bumpy,” Shen Xuanqing warned the two inside the carriage.  

    Country roads were far from smooth.  

    By the time they reached town, Shen Yaoqing had already been sipping tea at the house for a while.  

    As soon as Lu Gu entered, Guaizi trotted over. Their dog was clever—no matter how excitedly he wagged his tail, he never jumped up on Lu Gu’s belly since the pregnancy.  

    “Granny, Granny, these are fried dough twists from my grandma, they’re delicious!”  

    Lingjun’s bright voice drew a rare, shy smile from the usually reserved Granny Hua. Her kindness to Lingjun had won the child’s affection, and even at his young age, he recognized her goodness.  

    While Lu Gu and Granny Hua sorted through the items brought from home, Shen Xuanqing took portions of meat and fried dough twists to deliver to Luo Biao.  

    Speaking of Luo Biao, his own happy occasion was approaching.  

    The trip to the town outskirts wasn’t far, so Shen Xuanqing walked. When he arrived, Luo Biao was eating. After settling down, Luo Biao had learned to cook for himself—though his skills were mediocre, it saved money.  

    “Second Brother Shen, come in! Have you eaten? There’s more in the pot if you haven’t,” Luo Biao said warmly, accepting the gifts and setting them on the table.  

    “No need. We ate before leaving home. Not hungry yet,” Shen Xuanqing glanced at the blackened food and replied.  

    Luo Biao scratched his head sheepishly. “As long as it fills the stomach. Honestly, even if it’s charred, it tastes better than my earlier attempts.”  

    Shen Xuanqing laughed. “Once Wanyun marries you, you’ll have someone to cook properly.”  

    At the mention of Li Wanyun, Luo Biao grinned and said between bites, “Exactly! I already told her—once she’s here, I’ll buy her meat every day.”  

    His courtship of Li Wanyun had begun with him mustering courage to ask Shen Xuanqing and Lu Gu to act as a matchmaker. Back then, he hadn’t dared hope for success, figuring a rejection would at least settle the matter.  

    Due to his former work as a brothel guard—a disreputable occupation—most families wouldn't accept him as a son-in-law. He understood his prospects were restricted to either widows or daughters from destitute families.    

    Still, he had to try.

    Li Wanyun originally had no intention of remarrying, but the longer she stayed at her parents' home, the more gossip spread in the village. She earned money by weaving and raising silkworms, which made some people jealous.  

    After many twists and turns, she eventually became engaged to Luo Biao.  

    After the troubles with the Zhang family, the biggest advantage of marrying Luo Biao was that he had no parents-in-law. That was why she dared to agree. Now, she was just waiting for the auspicious wedding day.  

    Shen Xuanqing and Luo Biao were close friends. Seeing Luo Biao’s life gradually improve, with a home and a wife, Shen Xuanqing was naturally happy for him.  

    Lingjun grew day by day, but the little sister he had been hoping for never came.  

    On the day Lu Gu gave birth, the room was chaotic—shouts could be heard, and basins of bloody water were carried out. Granny Hua took Lingjun to the neighboring house to play.  

    Only after the baby was born was he allowed back into the room to see his amu. When he learned the little bundle in the swaddling clothes was a boy, he pouted unhappily. But after touching his little brother’s face, he smiled again.  

    Shen Xuanqing named the child Shen Wenmian, following the pattern of Zhao’er’s name.  

    When Lu Gu woke up and learned the name, Shen Xuanqing even wrote it out for him. Hearing that it sounded scholarly, Lu Gu was overjoyed.  

    The child sleeping beside him was tiny, while on the other side, Lingjun climbed onto the bed, lying sideways with his little feet resting on Lu Gu’s blanket, calling out, "Amu, when can we go out to play? Having a little brother isn’t fun at all."  

    The childish words made both of them laugh.  

    On the first night after Mian’er was born, Lu Gu had fallen asleep but, as usual, instinctively reached out in the middle of the night to check Lingjun’s blanket.  

    He gently tucked the child in, and Mian’er began to fuss.  

    Shen Xuanqing woke up, not even opening his eyes, and lightly patted the baby sleeping between them. Sensing Lu Gu’s movement, he said, "Go back to sleep. If he cries, I’m here."  

    "Mm," Lu Gu responded. The thought that there were now two children in bed—four people in total—filled him with contentment.  

    Years ago, when he was still with the Lu family, he had never imagined he would have two children, let alone with Shen Xuanqing.  

    The torment and mistreatment of the past had gradually faded. Though he sometimes felt resentment or sadness, those things were over, and those people were gone. There was no point dwelling on them. Shen Xuanqing treated him well, and that was enough.  

    Outside the window, a half-moon hung in the sky, casting its glow over the world.  

    The small town was quiet in the middle of the night, but in the courtyard, there was no longer that helpless person who could only gaze at the moon and think of his mother. 

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 230 Part 1

Chapter 230  

    The late summer was cooler than before, with a gentle breeze blowing. Small green round fruits hung from the persimmon tree, waiting to ripen in autumn.  

    Lu Gu sat in the yard with Lingjun, peeling firewood beans (soybeans)—last year's stored grains that he had sun-dried again a couple of days prior. After peeling them, he would soak them overnight to cook bean rice for their little Lingjun the next day.  

    On his way back, he had stopped by the rice shop to buy red beans. They still had some pre-shelled peanuts, which he planned to cook together tomorrow for a sweeter, more fragrant dish.  

    Shen Xuanqing had ridden back to their hometown to share the good news, leaving his master temporarily in charge of the shop. Both his master and shimu, Yan-shi, already knew about Lu Gu’s pregnancy, and the elderly couple were overjoyed.  

    Seeing Lingjun about to feed the beans to the dog, Lu Gu smiled and stopped the child’s hand, saying, “ Guaizi doesn’t eat these. Put them in the bowl, we’ll cook them tomorrow.”  

    He occasionally fed Guaizi peanuts, and Lingjun sometimes did the same, so the child assumed all beans were suitable for dogs.  

    Lingjun obediently dropped the small firewood beans into the bowl, mimicking adult speech in his childish voice: “Okay, we'll eat it.”  

    Lu Gu nodded with a grin. “Yes, we'll eat it later.”  

    Before noon, Yan-shi brought over a pot of stewed soup, her steps brisk with excitement. She ladled a bowl each for Lu Gu and Lingjun, sitting beside them with a kind smile as she watched them enjoy the soup and meat.  

    Lingjun was sweet-mouthed, calling Yan-shi and Lao Yang “Grandma” and “Grandpa” repeatedly, which endeared him greatly to the old couple.  

    Today, Yang Xian’s wife was free and stayed home to look after her child, so Yan-shi lingered to chat with Lu Gu a while longer.  

    Summer days were long, and just as the two were coaxing a reluctant Lingjun to nap, they heard dogs barking in the yard, followed by the voices of Shen Xuanqing and Wei Lanxiang.  

    Lu Gu hurried out and saw that Wei Lanxiang had indeed arrived.  

    “Oh, quick, sit down—don’t move around too much!” Wei Lanxiang carried a large bamboo basket on her arm, walking hurriedly.  

    Shen Xuanqing unloaded the chicken and duck cages from the cart and said with a smile, “I’ll go through the back gate to put the mule cart in the rear yard. I left the horse at home and didn’t ride it here.”  

    “Alright,” Lu Gu nodded before turning to pour tea for Wei Lanxiang.  

    “These are old hens and ducks bought from Granny A’jin, perfect for stewing soup. These are homegrown vegetables and bamboo shoots from the mountains. The bamboo fungus was gathered by your elder brother and sister-in-law. They dried some and originally meant to sell them, but once Erqing told them the news, they said, ‘Why sell them? Take them to nourish Guzi instead.’ They’re good for soup or braised meat.”  

    Wei Lanxiang couldn’t stop smiling as she sat and chattered away. Knowing Yan-shi was here to check on Lu Gu, she took her hand and said, “Don't worry that it looks like little now—these dried things swell up good when soaked. You and your husband should have some too to nourish yourselves.”  

    Since these mountain-foraged ingredients cost nothing, and Yan-shi and Lao Yang were practically family, there was no reason to hold back.  

    As laughter filled the main hall, Shen Xuanqing moved the chickens and ducks to the backyard before joining them with a smile, sitting beside Lu Gu. “I’ve visited the graves and told Father and Mother-in-law.”  

    Lu Gu nodded. Such important news naturally had to be shared at the ancestral graves.  

    Lingjun, now excused from napping, happily ran to the yard to play with Guaizi, his laughter ringing continuously.  

    Time flew, and by New Year’s, the whole family was together—with another child on the way. The growing family filled Wei Lanxiang with joy, her spirits visibly lifted.  

    Shortly after the New Year celebrations, it was time for Shen Yan’s wedding.  

    Gu Chengyue arrived on a tall horse to fetch his bride, accompanied by lively music. As soon as the procession entered Qingxi Village, adults and children alike came out to watch.  

    Shen Yan was carried out on Shen Yaoqing’s back and placed into the bridal sedan. The procession set off with music and fanfare. Gu Chengyue, already a handsome scholar, looked even more dashing in his red bridal attire.  

    In rural areas, dowries for girls and shuang'ers were usually modest, but Wei Lanxiang doted on her youngest daughter. With help from Shen Yaoqing and Shen Xuanqing, they prepared fine wooden dowry items—dressing cases, cabinets, and camphorwood chests—along with various smaller pieces. Though not an extravagant display, every piece was thoughtfully chosen.  

    Lu Gu, his belly now round and obvious, stayed behind with Wei Lanxiang.  

    Shen Xuanqing took Lingjun to the Gu family for the wedding banquet and returned together afterward.  

    Village aunties and grannies helped clean up, so Lu Gu simply served them tea.  

    Wei Lanxiang had shed tears several times these past days. Now, with her daughter gone and her room emptied, she felt a sudden hollowness. Not wanting to dampen the joyous occasion with more tears, she chatted and tidied with women her age.  

    “Lu Gu, when you leave in a few days, take some of this meat for you and Erqing. There’s too much for us to finish, and remember to bring some for your shimu too,” she called from the kitchen as she sorted through grains and meats.  

    “Understood, Mother,” Lu Gu replied, sitting to rest after pouring water for Aunt Miao.  

    He glanced around and sighed inwardly. Though he had lived in town for over two years, Shen Yan’s departure made the house feel quieter than usual, as if someone were missing.  

    Soon, Wei Lanxiang called again from the kitchen, “There are some fried dough twists here, take them for Granny Hua. If she’s willing, let her share some with her family. These are from a joyous occasion, after all.”  

    “Alright,” Lu Gu agreed again.  

    Since they were traveling by mule cart, bringing food was no trouble. As for Granny Hua, she was the elderly woman Shen Xuanqing had hired after the New Year.  

    With Lu Gu’s pregnancy advancing and Lingjun to care for, cooking and cleaning had become difficult. Shen Xuanqing asked around and met with several women before choosing Granny Hua, who was quiet, tidy, and diligent.  

    For cooking, cleaning, and laundry—common household tasks, she was paid two qian a month, standard in Jixing Town. Room and board were included, along with summer and winter clothing each year—a fair arrangement for servants in modest households.  

    Granny Hua’s good nature led Lu Gu to occasionally gift her embroidered handkerchiefs or homegrown peanuts and beans for her family.  

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 229 Part 3

    The dock was crowded, packed shoulder to shoulder. Afraid of getting lost, he didn’t dare stray far from Shen Xuanqing. Eventually, he simply walked close beside him, ensuring he wouldn’t lose his way.  

    People from their hometown often referred to themselves as "Yuqing folks" when traveling, and today, they finally set foot in Yuqing City.  

    The two of them wandered aimlessly through the city. Meanwhile, Luo Biao was idly sitting in the shop. He knew the prices of all the poultry and livestock, but with no customers coming in, he had nothing to do. So, he pulled out an unfinished bamboo basket Shen Xuanqing had been weaving and continued the work.  

    "Guzi?"  

    Hearing movement at the door, he thought it was a customer coming to buy meat, but when he looked up, it was Li Wanyun and Li Wang’er.  

    When he lived in Zhenzhu Alley, Li Wanyun had visited a few times, so the two were acquainted.  

    Li Wanyun also recognized him and smiled. "Oh, it’s you. I thought Guzi was here."  

    Luo Biao stood up. Despite having spent time in a brothel, he spoke little in front of respectable women. Scratching his head, he said, "He and Second Brother Shen went to Yuqing Prefecture. Did you need something?"  

    "Nothing much," Li Wanyun replied. "I came to sell some cloth and thought I’d chat with Guzi if he was here. Since he’s not, I’ll come another time. Don’t let me keep you." Now as a woman who had seen the world, she spoke without hesitation.  

    After she and Li Wang’er left, Luo Biao sat back down and resumed weaving the basket. But as he worked, it suddenly occurred to him that she was a widow who hadn’t remarried.  

    Yet he soon sighed. Someone like him—who would even consider him? So he shook his head, dismissing those pointless thoughts.  

    Though many shops sold things they could also find back home, there were plenty they didn’t have. Lu Gu’s eyes darted around in fascination until he heard a shop on the next street hawking "su shan." Shen Xuanqing, with his sharp ears, caught it immediately.  

    Neither of them had ever tasted it and didn’t know the price, so they followed the customer ahead of them and spent two taels of silver on a bowl, sitting inside the shop to eat.  

    The su shan had crushed ice and chopped fruit at the bottom, topped with whipped milk that was soft and melted in the mouth, sweetened with sugar. The crushed ice and fruit below were cool and sweet.  

    Being able to eat ice (something usually only available in winter) during summer was a novel experience for Lu Gu.  

    He bit into the crushed ice, making a light crunching sound, then turned to Shen Xuanqing with a smile in his eyes.  

    Yuqing City was vast. Without any luggage to carry, the two of them strolled leisurely, snacking as they pleased, mostly trying things they’d never eaten before. Some items were expensive, but since Shen Xuanqing could afford it, neither of them restrained themselves.

    At noon, when the sun was at its fiercest and the heat gave them headaches, Shen Xuanqing took Lu Gu into a large inn.  

    The main hall had diners, but since they’d already eaten plenty along the way, they didn’t order food here. A waiter led them upstairs.  

    The room had a bed, a table, a bathtub, and a screen—clearly better than any inn in Jixing Town.  

    They rested until the worst of the midday heat passed, then went out to explore again. This time, Shen Xuanqing took him past the government office, pointing out that it was the yamen, and also brought him to the main gate of Yuqing Prefecture.  

    Standing outside the city gate, Lu Gu looked up. He could read—the plaque bore the characters "Yu Qing."  

    Such a tall, imposing city gate could only belong to a prefectural city.  

    They stayed in the prefecture for two nights before returning. They’d eaten what they wanted, seen what they wanted, and even bought wine for Luo Biao. Lu Gu was thoroughly satisfied, he had been to the prefectural city now. In fact, in his nearly twenty years of life, this was the first time he’d had so much fun.  

    As the boat traveled upstream, he sat in the cabin and, when no one was looking, secretly hooked his little finger around Shen Xuanqing’s. Smiling, he said, "When Lingjun is older, let’s take him out on a boat too."  

    "Of course," Shen Xuanqing agreed with a smile.  

    Their hands quickly separated, afraid someone might see and gossip.  

    Upon their return, Luo Biao was delighted with the wine. He handed over the money from the sales to Shen Xuanqing. Since he couldn’t read or keep accounts, he used his own method: drawing three circles on the ground—one for rabbits, the other two for chickens and ducks. Every time one was sold, he added a horizontal line beneath the corresponding circle.  

    When Shen Xuanqing returned to tally the accounts, it was all clear at a glance.  

    After their trip, life returned to normal. Two days later, missing their child back in the old home, Lu Gu bought two watermelons at the dock. Shen Xuanqing hitched the mule cart, and they set off.  

    Lingjun had been having the time of his life at home. His uncle and aunt had even taken him up the mountain to pick fruit, and he hadn’t once said he missed his parents—until the cart stopped at the gate and he saw Lu Gu. Only then did he remember to cry.  

    This time, when they returned to Jixing Town, they brought the child with them.  

    Lingjun was a beautiful, clever little shuang’er. Though playful, he was quick-witted. Lu Gu and Shen Xuanqing had memorized a few simple poems, and on a whim, Lu Gu taught the child a couple of lines just for fun. To his surprise, the next day, their Lingjun recited those two lines flawlessly.

    Most children have good memories, and at his age, he didn’t understand the meaning of the lines. But Lu Gu was still overjoyed, scooping Lingjun up and covering him in kisses, happier than ever.  

    But when he tried teaching more lines, Lingjun, still so young and restless, kept getting distracted, wanting to play. After a couple of attempts, he even started crying.  

    Lu Gu had always doted on the child, and Shen Xuanqing told him not to push Lingjun—he was still little. In town, children didn’t start learning characters until seven or eight, and some even began at nine or ten. So he let it go. Why force the child? At his age, he hadn’t been any more accomplished.  

    Summer wasn’t over yet, and Lingjun, now nearly three, had grown a little taller. Shen Yan and Gu Chengyue’s wedding date was set for an auspicious day before next year’s spring plowing, when farm work would be light and relatives could attend.  

    With the happy occasion settled, everyone at home was in high spirits.  

    On an ordinary early morning at the end of summer, in Zhenzhu Alley, Lu Gu had just finished breakfast when a sip of tea suddenly churned in his stomach. He rushed to the corner of the yard and vomited for a while.  

    At first, Shen Xuanqing didn’t realize what was happening, patting his back and handing him tea. Only when Lu Gu, after recovering, looked at him did it dawn on him. Immediately, he picked up a confused Lingjun, grabbed Lu Gu’s hand, and hurried to the clinic.  

    The physician diagnosed a pregnancy pulse, stroking his beard with a smile and offering congratulations.  

    Lu Gu was fine—this was how it had been when he was carrying Lingjun. Smiling, he glanced at Shen Xuanqing, only to find their Erqing once again stunned by the physician’s words, standing there dumbfounded. His own smile widened.

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 229 Part 2

    Since having a child, the two of them had spent little time alone together. These past few days without Lingjun felt almost like a return to the past.  

    The night was enchanting, the breeze carrying traces of the day’s lingering heat and wisps of floral fragrance drifting in through the window.  

    The bed had been spread with a bamboo mat, and both of them had bathed before lying down. In summer, sweat came easily, but after washing, their bodies were cool and refreshed—nothing was more comfortable than lying in bed like this.  

    The room was dark, but the moonlight shining through the window provided enough light to see.

    Lu Gu’s hand was held by Shen Xuanqing, though it wouldn’t be long before sweat made them let go. His eyes curved slightly as he listened to Shen Xuanqing tally the day’s earnings.  

    When he finished, Shen Xuanqing suddenly rolled over to face him.  

    "Business has been slow lately with this heat. Why don’t I take you by boat to Yuqing Prefecture for a trip? We’ll have Biaozi watch the shop for a couple of days, stay overnight at an inn. I’ve heard they have things like bing lao and su shan there—made with ice and milk, even fruit. They're expensive, but I’ll take you to try them."

[冰酪 (bīng lào): made by mixing fermented milk (酪, akin to yogurt or soft cheese) with honey or fruit, then freezing it with ice and salt]

[酥山 (sū shān): a luxurious chilled dessert from the Tang Dynasty (618–907 AD), made of layered, flaky pastry (酥) sculpted into a mountain-like shape (山), often drizzled with honey or flavored with floral syrups, and served over ice] 

    Growing more enthusiastic, Shen Xuanqing added, "I’ll go find Biaozi tomorrow. It’s not far—just two or three days. Won’t delay his work."  

    Though they already had a child, they were still young at heart, and the idea of an outing excited them.  

    Just hearing this, a faint smile appeared on Lu Gu’s face. "Ice? How expensive must that be?"  

    Ordinary families could hardly afford ice in summer—even the wealthy in Jixing Town rarely used it. Only in the prefecture could it be bought.  

    "A bowl’s only a few taels at most. Let’s try it—my treat, just eat." Shen Xuanqing pinched his fulang’s nose, already set on the idea. The heat was unbearable, and a little adventure would do them good.  

    Though last year’s travels had ended in hardship, making him abandon thoughts of venturing far, Yuqing Prefecture wasn’t distant. He just wanted to take Lu Gu out for a change of scenery.  

    Lu Gu swatted at the mischievous hand pinching his nose before smiling. "Alright, let’s go by boat. I’ve never ridden one that far."  

    This would be their first proper trip together, and the excitement kept them talking late into the night.  

   Young and full of energy, they held hands and touched affectionately. To stay cool in the summer heat, they wore thin sleeping clothes, Shen Xuanqing even bare-chested.  

    The wind rustled the persimmon leaves outside, their swaying shadows mimicking the movements inside the room.  

    The unspeakable positions left Lu Gu flushed. Perhaps it was the heat—his face and ears burned, yet he made no sound of protest, his gentle eyes hiding deep affection for the other.  

    Shen Xuanqing was no different. In moments of deepest intimacy, even his sharpest edges softened.  

    Nothing in this world brought such joy.  

    The next morning, as Lu Gu washed his face, Shen Xuanqing set down the water basin and suddenly said, "From now on, we should send Lingjun back to the old home more often."  

    Somehow, Lu Gu immediately understood the implication.  

    Their eyes met, and seeing Lu Gu’s shy embarrassment, Shen Xuanqing grinned and added, "Mother’s always missing him. Let him keep her company."  

    It was a proper excuse, at least, and Lu Gu’s blush faded slightly.  

    The morning cool brought many travelers. After delivering rabbits, chickens, and ducks to the shop and selling through the early market, Shen Xuanqing went to the outskirts to find Luo Biao, leaving Lu Gu and the dog to watch the store.  

    Luo Biao had used his hundred taels to buy a house on the other side of town—close enough to the outskirts to be cheap, costing only thirty-five taels. He'd purchased six mu of farmland—three mu of paddy fields and three mu of dry fields. Being a strong worker, managing six mu was well within his ability.  

    When Luo Biao purchased his farmland, Shen Xuanqing had thought about doing the same. But with the shop to run, Lu Gu couldn't handle farming by himself. So Shen Xuanqing put the idea aside for now, deciding to save up until he could buy seven to ten mu - with that much land, hiring help would make sense, whereas a smaller plot wouldn't justify the expense.  

    Their few hundred taels were their livelihood’s foundation. He and Lu Gu had agreed not to touch this money except in dire need. Between their family's existing farmland and careful management, they could live comfortably for years to come.  

    Luo Biao was a man of simple means. Without any specialized trade skills to fall back on, he hadn't yet discovered a clear path into business. Relying on his strength, he focused on farming.  

    Years without land or home had passed, but now, with both, he worked with renewed vigor.  

    Shen Xuanqing found him in the fields. Hearing of their planned trip, Luo Biao agreed without hesitation to watch the shop for two days. In this summer heat, his fieldwork was light anyway.  

    Shouldering his hoe, Luo Biao walked back with him, grinning. "Bring me a jug of Nu’erhong from Zuixianfang, the small kind. I heard they sell it in bamboo tubes, cheap."  

    Shen Xuanqing stopped him from reaching for money. "No need. You’re helping us out, I’ll bring it back."  

    "Deal." Luo Biao chuckled. He loved little else but a good drink.  

    At the shop, Lu Gu sold one old hen before business stalled. When Luo Biao arrived, they exchanged a few words, then he and Shen Xuanqing set off for the docks.  

    The downstream boat trip to the prefecture took less than half an hour. Since it was such a short journey and they planned to stay just three days, they only carried their money pouches as they strolled to the riverside docks.  

    Boats of every size lined the shore. Remembering this was Lu Gu's first outing in years, Shen Xuanqing chose a larger boat.  

    The gentle swaying of the boat on the water brought a smile to Lu Gu's face, who’d only ridden small fishing boats as a child—with his mother's relatives. After his mother’s death, no one had taken him again.  

    The spacious cabin and the boatman’s calls outside made him smile unconsciously.  

    The boat sped smoothly with the current—faster than he’d imagined possible. His heart raced with excitement.  

    Seeing his joy, Shen Xuanqing led him outside with the boatman’s permission. Standing at the bow, they watched the river rush forward, carrying them swiftly.  

    The wind against his face—Lu Gu had never known sailing could feel so exhilarating.  

    They lingered outside before returning to the cabin. Shen Xuanqing smiled. "This is downstream, that’s why it’s fast. The return trip won’t be as quick."  

    "Mm." Lu Gu nodded. He’d still take the boat back, he wanted to experience that, too.

    When they arrived at Yuqing Prefecture, the two of them disembarked at the dock, and the lively bustle that greeted them was nothing like what their small town could compare to.  

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 229 Part 1

Chapter 229

    The cicadas’ shrill chirping filled the air, and the already sweltering heat became even more unbearable, grating on the nerves.  

    In the backyard, Lu Gu cranked the pulley to draw water, pouring it into the trough for the horse and mule so they could quench their thirst.  

    Even Guaizi was panting from the heat, sprawled in the shade, unwilling to move. Lu Gu carried half a bucket of water to pour into the dog’s bowl, and only then did Guaizi get up to drink.  

    After giving water to the livestock, he hauled another bucket to the front yard to wash his his light summer clothes. The cool water on his hands and arms brought some relief from the heat.  

    The persimmon tree in the yard was lush, and the cicadas’ incessant noise from the treetops grated on his nerves as he hung the laundry. Unable to stand it, he shook the tree a few times, then looked up and actually spotted where a cicada was hiding. He fetched a long bamboo pole and poked at it, sending the black cicada tumbling to the ground.  

    The black cicada fell to the ground, its transparent wings fluttering as it buzzed, trying to fly away—only for Guaizi, who had been lying in wait, to pounce and clamp his jaws around it.  

    "Ah!"  

    Hearing the cicada still chirping from Guaizi’s mouth, Lu Gu realized the dog hadn’t bitten it to death but was holding it playfully between his teeth.  

    "I thought you were eating it as a snack. What’s so fun about that? Next time we go back to the village, I’ll have Erqing take you up the mountain to catch some. We’ll fry up a whole batch for you." He set down the bamboo pole, laughing as he pried open Guaizai’s mouth.  

    Of course, when he said "fry," he meant without oil—dogs didn’t need that. In their hometown, some people ate cicada nymphs, and even the adult ones weren’t spared. These insects were everywhere in summer, though the shed skins could be sold to apothecaries. Most folks in their village just collected the molts.  

    As the dog’s jaws opened, the saliva-covered cicada dropped to the ground, still struggling with a faint buzz.  

    Guaizi crouched low, adopting a hunting stance. Seeing this, Lu Gu knew he was just playing and left him to it.  

    The heat was unbearable. A few days ago, he and Shen Xuanqing had sent Little Lingjun back to their hometown. Wei Lanxiang missed Lingjun terribly and had been talking about him nonstop.  

    Lingjun was older now, no longer a toddler who needed to be carried. Their countryside home was much more spacious than their townhouse, and there were oxen to ride and ducks to herd. Lingjun loved playing with his older brother there, so they let him stay.  

    Wiping the sweat from his face, Lu Gu thought for a moment before heading to the kitchen. From the water vat, he pulled out a watermelon that had been soaking all morning.  

    The watermelon was round and big, shipped in by riverboat. They didn’t grow many here, and Shen Xuanqing had bought it at the docks—expensive, but undeniably delicious.  

    Before soaking it, he had scrubbed the rind clean. Now, as he lifted it out, the skin felt cool to the touch.  

    He dried the watermelon, then placed it in a bamboo basket, hoisting the heavy load onto his back.  

    Shen Xuanqing was minding the butcher shop, where there were plenty of knives to clean and use for cutting the watermelon. Pleased with his plan, Lu Gu set off with the basket, calling for Guaizi to follow.  

    Ever since their return, Shen Xuanqing had grown increasingly wary of the unstable times. He insisted that even for a quick errand, Lu Gu should take the dog. Theirs was a hunting breed, far more capable than ordinary guard dogs—an extra layer of protection.  

    The midday sun was brutal, and few people walked under its scorching rays. Lu Gu wore a straw hat; otherwise, the glare would have made it impossible to keep his eyes open.  

    The butcher shop was just on the next street over. He quickened his pace, and Guaizi trotted alongside him.  

    When they arrived, Shen Xuanqing was sitting at the table, keeping accounts. By noon, customers were scarce—few customers braved the scorching heat unless they were farmers toiling in the fields.  

    "Why’d you come now? Don’t you fear heatstroke?" Shen Xuanqing looked up, set down his brush, and stood to help him with the basket.  

    Lu Gu smiled. "It’s so hot, I wanted watermelon. Since you weren’t home, I brought it here to share. Perfect for cooling off in this weather, don’t you think?"  

    Shen Xuanqing cleared the table, washed a seldom-used knife in the back, then returned to slice the watermelon.  

    The last time they had watermelon, Little Lingjun was still here. Even Guaizi recognized it as food—after tasting the red flesh, he’d gnawed on the crisp, juicy rind, just like the horse and mule.  

    Raising a child wasn’t easy. Now that Lingjun was back in the village, though the absence of his chatter felt strange, Lu Gu also felt a sense of relief. He held a slice of watermelon, taking big, sweet bites, the juice bursting in his mouth.  

    His cheeks bulged as he chewed, the sweetness making his eyes crinkle with joy. He grinned at Shen Xuanqing between bites.  

    Seeing his fulang so happy, Shen Xuanqing’s star-like eyes shone brightly.  

    They hadn’t even eaten lunch yet, but the two of them finished the entire watermelon, their bellies full.  

    In this heat, watermelon didn’t keep well—it would turn mushy and bland if left out.  

    When Shen Xuanqing bought the watermelon, Yang Xian had been the one to call him over. The Yang family had their own, so they didn’t need to share with Lao Yang and Yan Shi today.  

    Watermelon was a luxury, a rare treat. They ate every last bit, leaving almost no flesh on the rind. Two slices Lu Gu hadn’t even bitten into were given to Guaizi, who had been staring eagerly.  

    Guaizi devoured the watermelon with gusto—not just the red part, but even the white rind, leaving only the thinnest green skin. After two slices, he sat licking the juice from his muzzle.  

    "Let’s buy a couple more next time, send them home," Shen Xuanqing said as he wiped the table.  

    Lu Gu nodded. "We’ll visit in a few days. If Lingjun wants to come back, we’ll bring him. If he’d rather stay and play, Mother and Sister-in-law can watch him." He tossed the rinds into the basket to take back for the mule and horse.  

    The child was in their hometown, after all—not some far-off place. Besides, the foot of the mountain was cooler at night, and the child slept much more soundly there than in town. Though Lu Gu missed him, he wasn’t overly reluctant to let him stay.  

    Shen Xuanqing helped him shoulder the basket, smiling. "This place is cramped and too hot. You head back first. Not many people buy meat in this heat. I’ll close up in half an hour and come home for lunch. Just stir-fry something simple—we’re already full anyway."  

    "Alright, I’m off." Lu Gu grabbed his straw hat from the wall. There was no wind, so he didn’t bother tying the strings, just plopped it on his head and left.  

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 228 Part 2

    Lingjun and Zhao'er were playing in the yard. Whenever the two children were together, they were always noisy. Before long, Zhou Xiangjun came over to help, and Shen Yaoqing also went to call relatives and friends from the village—most had come to see Shen Xuanqing, and with many people around, it was lively.  

    Tables were being moved to the front yard for the meal. After Lu Gu finished washing the clothes, he carried them to the backyard to dry. The food was also ready.  

    There was wine and meat, and quite a few people had come. Wei Lanxiang had prepared plenty of dishes and even borrowed tables and chairs from the neighbors. Altogether, four tables were filled, and everyone happily enjoyed the meal.  

    After staying at home for three days, life gradually returned to its former peace.  

    The butcher shop had been closed for several days, and it was time to reopen. The Yang family's mule cart also needed to be returned. Early that morning, the family loaded rabbits, chickens, and ducks onto the flat cart.  

    Shen Xuanqing drove the cart carrying Lu Gu and their child toward town. Luo Biao took charge of the cart loaded with rabbits, planning to return by afternoon to help bring the chestnut horse back to town.  

    Shen Yaoqing had been busy these past few months, managing both the household and the town shop. Shen Xuanqing, mindful of his elder brother's hard work, told him to rest at home for a few days.  

    Now that he was back, Shen Yan didn’t need to go along anymore. It was also good for her to spend more time with her mother before her marriage.  

    The old home’s courtyard was spacious, and Lingjun had grown a bit wild playing there. When it was time to leave, he was reluctant and sat in Lu Gu’s arms, saying he wanted to come back.  

    Lu Gu held his little shuang'er, his eyes curving into a smile, and promised, "We’ll come back. The weather will be warmer soon, and if you want to return, we’ll have your Dad drive us back to stay with Grandma and Brother for a few days."  

    "Mm." Lingjun nodded his little head, still clutching the small flower bun Wei Lanxiang had given him. He said in a soft voice, "Amu, I can eat it in one bite."  

    Lu Gu couldn’t help but respond, smiling, "Oh? Let me see, is our Ling ger a little tiger with a big mouth?"  

    Lingjun was very pleased with himself and stuffed the tiny bun into his mouth all at once, his cheeks puffing out. He even clapped his hands to show they were empty—everything was in his mouth now.  

    The cart rocked gently. The sun was strong today, so Lu Gu lifted the curtain inside to let the wind in. It wasn’t cold, and he could chat with Shen Xuanqing.  

    Before they had even left the village, he spotted Chen Dongdong and his mother-in-law coming out of their house with a bamboo basket.  

    "Guzi, heading to town?" Chen Dongdong smiled shyly as always, wearing a new outfit without patches.  

    "Yes, going to town. Are you and Auntie going out?" Lu Gu greeted him warmly.  

    Chen Dongdong replied, "Going to buy some tofu."  

    Seeing the mule cart slow down, he knew the Shen family was taking rabbits to town and didn’t want to delay them. He quickly said, "Go on, it’s a long journey. Next time you’re back, I’ll come see you."  

    "Alright." Lu Gu agreed, and Shen Xuanqing gave Chen Dongdong a slight nod before urging the mule forward.  

    The people by the roadside gradually fell behind. Out of the corner of his eye, Lu Gu saw Chen Dongdong chatting with his mother-in-law, the smile never leaving his face.  

    Last time he returned, he had heard from Wei Lanxiang that Chen Dongdong was pregnant. He Zhi was overjoyed and even bought cloth for new clothes. After several years of marriage, there was finally good news, and even Wei Lanxiang had muttered "Amitabha"—now there would be no more gossip behind their backs.  

    As for cutting grass in the coming days, He Zhi had already spoken to Shen Yaoqing. He said his parents had been eating better these past two years and had regained some strength. Though they couldn’t handle heavy labor, cutting grass was manageable. The elderly couple had no other work at home, and gathering two cartloads of grass a day wouldn’t be a problem—they’d just be a bit slower.  

   As for He Zhi himself, he carried firewood and heavy loads, doing odd jobs. Though the work was hard, the pay was good. He was a young man—if he didn’t endure hardship, who would? Now that he had a child on the way, his motivation was even stronger.  

    Shen Yaoqing thought that if they could gather two cartloads of grass a day, just like before, and since they had also hired Ge Chunsheng as a long-term laborer—who would also go out to cut grass, there would be enough fodder for the animals. So, he didn’t look for anyone else and continued to let the He family handle it.  

    "This time when we get back, let’s prepare a good meal and invite the Gu family over. The wedding invitations and replies haven’t been settled yet—we'll leave that to Elder Brother and Mother to arrange. Though we live nearer to the Gu family in town, these matters should properly be discussed and decided between them and Brother."

    Shen Xuanqing, sitting at the front, spoke. The only major event left in the family was Shen Yan’s marriage. Having been away for half a year, he was naturally concerned.  

    Since Shen Yaoqing was the eldest son and their father was no longer around, even Wei Lanxiang deferred to him. The Gu family would naturally discuss matters with Shen Yaoqing.  

    "Didn’t Elder Brother say before that he wanted to delay it and set the wedding for next year?" Lu Gu remarked casually. Remembering how Shen Yan and Gu Chengyue interacted in town, he added with a smile, "While you were gone, Yan Yan lived with me. That Gu Chengyue was constantly visiting, always bringing little gifts. It's clear he's completely smitten with her."  

    Shen Xuanqing chuckled. "Our family’s daughter is certainly someone to be cherished. If he weren’t fond of her, Brother and I wouldn’t be willing to let Yan Yan marry him."  

    The two chatted idly as they traveled. Once they reached the main road, the wind grew stronger, so Lu Gu lowered the curtain. Lingjun, accustomed to the mule cart, played and laughed with Guaizi.  

    The cart wheels rolled steadily onward. Outside, the sharp snap of Shen Xuanqing's whip cut through the air. Though no words passed between them, the simple knowledge that he was there—just on the other side of the curtain—settled Lu Gu's heart with quiet assurance.    

    Everything was getting better. Not just for them.

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 228 Part 1

Chapter 228  

    The house was filled with the sound of crying. Wei Lanxiang wept while hitting Shen Xuanqing’s arm, asking where he had run off to all these days and why the damned boy hadn’t come home.  

    Lu Gu stood nearby trying to console her, but his own eyes reddened with unshed tears.  

    Even the villagers, upon hearing of Shen Xuanqing’s return, came to see him. The third uncle’s family was no exception—Zhou Xiangjun wiped his tears for a long while. With so many relatives in the village, everyone who came to check on him did so out of kindness. Lu Gu and Ji Qiuyue had to serve tea several times to the steady stream of visitors.  

    A few of the village’s young men who were close to Shen Xuanqing, like Da Chen, also came. Though they didn’t cry, they all said, "It’s good you’re back, it’s good you’re back." Only after sighing in relief did they start scolding him with a laugh, asking why he had been delayed outside for so long.  

    Even Chen Dongdong came along with He Zhi to see him.  

    After crying her fill, Wei Lanxiang wiped her face and smiled through reddened eyes. Though only in her fifties, years of backbreaking labor had aged her beyond her years, and the constant worry of these past six months had deepened her wrinkles. But now that her second son had returned, her eyes shone again. She busied herself preparing a feast, calling Ji Qiuyue and Shen Yan to help, determined to make a proper meal.  

    Even when Zhou Yunzhi and Shen Shunde came by, she smilingly insisted they stay for dinner. Since Shen Xuanqing had been missing during the New Year, today’s meal would serve as their reunion feast.  

    The skies had cleared, and the sun was out.  

    Everything in his hometown was familiar—the rolling mountains, the great river behind the village, the contented lowing of cattle, and the dogs swarming around him, wagging their tails in excitement. Dahui even stood on his hind legs, front paws resting on Shen Xuanqing as if embracing him. Standing on the earthen floor of his home, Shen Xuanqing felt truly anchored, the solid ground beneath him mirroring the steadiness returning to his soul.  

    Li Laiqing and Ge Chunsheng were both working at the new house. With spring plowing still some time away, there wasn’t much to do in the fields—just pulling weeds from the wheat fields. Nothing more.  

    The father and son-in-law worked diligently at their family’s property, earning wages as well as rice and flour, making their lives far better than before. Seeing him return, the two dark-skinned men grinned with genuine happiness.  

    As noon approached, the sound of hooves clattered outside. Lu Gu was at the old house washing Shen Xuanqing’s clothes—the dirty ones he had taken off the night before.  

    Looking up, he saw Luo Biao approaching with Shen Xuanqing, leading a horse. It went without saying—Luo Biao must have gone to the new house first.

    "Sister-in-law," Luo Biao called out when he saw him.  

    Wei Lanxiang, busy in the kitchen, hurried out at the noise, and Luo Biao greeted her with a respectful "Aunt Wei."  

    He wasn't here for any pressing matter—the whole household was just overjoyed at Shen Xuanqing's return.

    "You came back just in time. Wait a bit, and we’ll eat soon," Wei Lanxiang said with a smile before returning to the kitchen.  

    Luo Biao led the horse to the backyard to feed it. The stone trough there made it easy for the animal to graze.  

    The chestnut horse had been bought in Yuncheng. Thanks to Cui Rongwei’s connections and the friendships Shen Xuanqing had formed with a few men from the military camp, someone had helped negotiate a cheaper price when purchasing it.  

    But unlike Shen Xuanqing, Luo Biao didn’t have much use for a horse.  

    Lu Gu poured tea for both of them. With no wind today, Shen Xuanqing moved a table and chairs into the yard, enjoying the sun as they drank.  

    Luo Biao set down a bundle he had untied from the horse’s back. After exchanging a few casual words, he sighed and said, "Qiu Laoda and his brother went back home. I traveled with them and distributed the silver to the families of the brothers who didn’t make it."  

    Lu Gu, washing clothes nearby, instinctively glanced at Shen Xuanqing. He could guess that the "brothers" referred to the men from the horse caravan.  

    "I’ve already kept my share. This is yours." Luo Biao pulled out a small, heavy pouch from the bundle.  

    Shen Xuanqing took it and looked inside before explaining to Lu Gu, who looked puzzled, "This is the silver from Lord Cui. The massacre of the horse caravan happened because of him, and too many brothers died. He felt guilty, so before we left Yuncheng, he gave a hundred taels to each of us—including the dead. It was too much to carry on the road, so we took silver notes. Biaozi and Qiu Laoda only exchanged them at the bank in the prefecture city today."  

    So that was how it was.  

    "A hundred taels..."  

    Lu Gu murmured the amount. It wasn’t that he coveted the sum—having seen six or seven hundred taels before, he wasn’t easily shocked. But it suddenly struck him that this hundred taels, if not for Shen Xuanqing’s sheer luck, might have been paid for with his life, just like the others.  

    Shen Xuanqing added, "When I left, Lord Cui mentioned that after the rebels were executed, their homes were confiscated. This money—even if it came from the rebels’ pockets, it's meant to give the horse caravan some closure."  

    The rebel in question was a high-ranking official in the capital. Two thousand taels was nothing compared to the silver seized from his estate—enough to compensate several times over.  

    But these were not matters to be spoken of carelessly. Even far from the turmoil, it was best to remain cautious.  

    Luo Biao took a sip of tea, set down the bowl, and sighed. "I told Qiu Laoda and Qiu Laosan that I won’t be joining them in the horse trade anymore. The roads are long, and my luck isn’t great. I’m practically a walking jinx. Better to stay in town, run a small business, and slowly save up."  

    "Have you decided what to do?" Shen Xuanqing asked.  

    "Not yet. But with this hundred taels, I can at least buy a house to settle in first." Luo Biao smiled wryly.  

    He really had been unlucky—yet this time, misfortune had turned to fortune. Not only had he survived, but he now had the means to buy property and start a small business. His heart was a mix of emotions, bitterness outweighing joy.  

    For an ordinary commoner, a hundred taels was an enormous sum.  

    After another sigh, he added, "I shouldn’t delay buying land either. A few acres of good fields—who knows, maybe I’ll end up farming outside town. Even just growing enough grain for myself would be enough to live on."

    Shen Xuanqing nodded and said, "That's very good. If you farm the land diligently for a few years, you'll be able to save up money and grain. When you have free time, you can gather firewood or catch fish to earn a few extra copper coins."  

    "That's exactly what I was thinking. With a house and land, we can always get by," Luo Biao replied with a smile. 

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 227 Part 2

     Lu Gu sat on the edge of the bed, putting on his shoes, and said offhandedly, "You dress him, his clothes are by the bed. Remember to put his hat on when we go out. It’s cold after the rain."  

    After six months apart, Shen Xuanqing was more than happy to oblige. He sat up and first removed the little outer garment Lingjun had clumsily put on himself. "Alright, got it. After eating, I’ll go fetch the mule cart."  

    They were all returning to their hometown today, and one horse wouldn’t be enough. Yesterday, after dinner, they’d discussed borrowing a mule cart from Yang Xian.  

    The Yang family mostly stayed in Jixing Town, so their mule cart rarely traveled far. Yang Xian had sold the few acres of land back home and bought fifteen fertile fields near town, hiring laborers to farm them—similar to the Gu family, so they wouldn’t need to make trips back.  

    The large pot boiled water quickly. For washing faces, it didn’t need to be hot—just warm would do.  

    Since they were going out, they couldn’t appear unkempt. Lu Gu scooped water to wash his face first. By the time he and Shen Yan left, Shen Xuanqing was squatting in the yard with Lingjun, washing their faces.  

    A child’s cheeks were tender and soft. Shen Xuanqing didn’t dare use much force, afraid his rough hands might hurt him.  

    The yard was muddy. Guaizi yawned and got up from the sack he’d been lying on. Used to running in the mountains, he didn’t mind the mud. Unlike some country dogs that were particular about cleanliness, he picked his way along the stone path and nudged Shen Xuanqing’s leg with his head.  

    Lingjun, having played with big dogs since he was little, wasn’t afraid at all. He even gently pinched Guaizi’s ear—something he’d learned from Lu Gu.  

    Though it had rained last night, the streets were still bustling with vendors. To feed their families, they couldn’t afford laziness.  

    Since they were heading home today, Lu Gu followed the aromas and stopped at a wonton stall near the alley entrance, ordering three small bowls. The bun vendor wasn’t far either, so he bought four vegetable buns and six meat buns.  

    Being a regular customer from the neighborhood, when he said he’d take them home, the vendor simply packed them in two large bowls, to be returned later.  

    "Yan Yan, wait here. I’ll take these back and come right out," Lu Gu said, carrying a bowl in each hand. By the time he returned, the wontons were ready, and the two of them brought three bowls home.  

    Lingjun didn’t eat much. Lu Gu took his small wooden bowl, scooped a few wontons and some broth, and gave him a spoon to eat on his own.  

    Meat buns were expensive, but they’d bought six—enough for the three of them. With meat available, they naturally ate that first.  

    "Try this, meat buns. They’re delicious," Lu Gu said, breaking off half a bun for Lingjun before smiling up at Shen Xuanqing. "Eat as many as you want. I’ll be full after one vegetable bun."  

    Shen Yan ate one meat bun. Her appetite wasn’t big, and with a bowl of wontons, she couldn’t finish a whole vegetable bun, so she broke it in half. "I can’t eat the rest. Maybe save it for when we come back."  

    "We’ll be home for a few days. I’ll eat it now, it might go bad," Lu Gu said.  

    So the two of them split the vegetable bun. After everyone had eaten their fill, there were still two vegetable buns and one meat bun left. Guaizi whined, and Lu Gu, in high spirits, gave him the meat bun.  

    Guaizi ate quickly, devouring the bun in a few bites. Lu Gu then gave him a vegetable bun.  

    With only one bun left—and unsure when they’d return, Shen Xuanqing ate it to avoid waste.  

    Chewing as he walked out to fetch the mule cart, he said, "Biaozi should be back from the prefectural city today. Since we’re heading home now, leaving him alone, maybe we could ask a neighbor to pass on a message. If they see him, tell him to ride over."  

    Lu Gu nodded. "Alright. I’ll leave the door key with Aunt Liu. She’s always home watching her grandchildren, she can give it to Biaozi."  

    "Mm." Shen Xuanqing stuffed the last bite of bun into his mouth and left.  

    By the time he brought the mule cart to the alley entrance, Lu Gu and Shen Yan were ready. Though the rain ceased late last night, the roads remained difficult to travel quickly.  

    The Yang family's mule cart had a canopy. Lu Gu had Lingjun sit inside, drove the dog in after him, and sat near the entrance to talk with Shen Xuanqing.  

    He mentioned visiting their uncle’s and aunt’s families in a couple of days. Many relatives had been worried during the New Year, especially those on his mother’s side. Remembering yesterday’s unsettled accounts, he said, "I forgot to bring the ledger. Before you came back, I’d recorded everything, planning to settle it after returning. I forgot last night too."  

    Shen Xuanqing said, "No rush. We can do it later. It’s only the start of the month, taxes aren’t due for a while."  

    Knowing Lu Gu didn't recognize many written characters, he smiled and asked: "You can record accounts now?"

    "Just for rabbits, chickens, and ducks—I can write those characters. If the sums are small, I can manage, but when business is good, I can’t use an abacus. Sometimes I ask Aunt Zhao’s daughter-in-law from the noodle shop, she knows how to calculate. Master sometimes drops by and helps me checks too. It hasn’t been too hard."  

    Lu Gu rambled about his daily life these past months, mainly selecting the better parts to describe.  

    Shen Xuanqing said: "I'll teach you to use the abacus when we have time."  

    He then said jokingly: "When you can record accounts and calculate sums, you'll count as a half-accountant."  

    Lu Gu smiled. Accountants could read words and calculate numbers - these were skills villagers looked up to and respected. Though he knew Shen Xuanqing was teasing him, he still felt happy in his heart.  

    Chatting and laughing along the way, even the wind felt less cold.  

    Halfway there, they indeed ran into Shen Yaoqing, hauling rabbits.  

    Before the carts drew close, Shen Yaoqing spotted the figure in the distance. He stared, heart pounding, wondering if it could really be his second brother—until the man called out, "Big Brother!"  

    His eyes instantly grew hot with tears.

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 227 Part 1

Chapter 227  

    The sound of rain pattered outside as the two embraced and slept. Shen Xuanqing held the person in his arms, feeling utterly at peace.  

    He had explained things simply to Lu Gu, but in truth, escaping through the mountains had been a life-or-death struggle. Because he was the fastest runner in their group, he had risked his life to save Cui Rongwei when they were being hunted, nearly losing his own in the process.  

    Later, when helping with the mission, he did so partly out of hatred for those ruthless people who slaughtered even passing merchant caravans without mercy, and partly out of fear—fear that they would target his family. So he thought he might as well contribute as much as he could.  

    If not for this, Cui Rongwei wouldn’t have kept him around. That dragon-patterned jade pendant had truly been earned with his life.  

    Originally, he hadn’t wanted to tell Lu Gu any of this to avoid worrying him, but in his haste to return, he’d forgotten to hide the pendant.  

    Their family was small and ordinary, living only in Jixing Town—what major affairs would they ever have that required seeking out officials or Cui Rongwei?  

    Yuncheng wasn’t far from the northern frontier, and there was a military camp stationed nearby. He and Luo Biao, along with a few others, had hidden there with Cui Rongwei, witnessing and learning many things, even picking up some skills.  

    When Cui Rongwei asked him to stay, he had actually been tempted. Any man with even a bit of ambition would yearn for the words "achieving glory and success."  

    Cui Rongwei was a good official—when they first met in the mountains, he had urged them to flee while he and his two subordinates drew the pursuers away. That was why Shen Xuanqing had saved him.  

    But the capital was simply too far from home. Moreover, in the past six months, though he hadn’t seen much bloodshed, there had been several close calls. Even a high-ranking official like Cui Rongwei had nearly been killed. The struggles between factions were turbulent, and someone like him, with no backing or connections, would have to tread carefully in such a place. How could it compare to the comfort and ease of staying home?  

    So even when Cui Rongwei offered to move his entire family to the capital, he still refused.  

    Their family were just farmers, with barely any literacy among them. If they went to the capital, they’d live in constant fear.  

    He had ambition, but that ambition was simply to improve his family’s life—to let their children study in the future. He didn’t seek great wealth or nobility, just a peaceful life.  

    The wind blew fiercely and the rain fell heavily. Hearing the storm outside, Lu Gu didn't stay awake until midnight like he used to.  

    Lingjun must have been dreaming, whimpering softly a couple of times. Lu Gu turned over and patted the child sleeping on the inner side of the bed.  

    To Shen Xuanqing, every movement of his family was enough to put his heart at ease. He slept the soundest he had in six months.  

    The next morning, Lu Gu woke up later than usual. The shop wouldn’t open today, they had to wait for Shen Yaoqing to bring the mule cart from home before they could sell anything.  

    Because Shen Xuanqing had returned, the two of them hadn’t slept well these past six months. Even after waking up, they didn’t get out of bed right away.  

    In contrast, Lingjun was the first to wake up. After opening his eyes, he sat up in a daze, only gradually remembering yesterday’s events when he noticed the big adult now sharing the bed.  

    Lu Gu was woken by the child climbing over him. Shen Xuanqing, too, woke up the same way.  

    Lingjun crawled onto his father’s chest but, feeling shy, didn’t speak. Shen Xuanqing, however, pulled him into a tight embrace.  

    Since Lu Gu often played with him like this, Lingjun immediately burst into giggles.  

    "Our Ling ger can even dress himself now, so impressive!" Lu Gu praised happily, seeing the child had already worn his outer garment, though not properly fastened.

    Shen Xuanqing echoed the praise, and Lingjun visibly brightened even more.  

    Shen Yan had already gotten up and was boiling water in the large kitchen pot. A few days ago, Lu Gu had bought a fire starter, which was much more convenient than flint.  

    Knowing Shen Xuanqing was exhausted, she moved quietly. Hearing the child’s laughter and the adults wake up, she called from the yard, "Brother Guzi, the sky’s clear now. What do you want for breakfast? Should I make something, or should we buy some buns or a bowl of wontons?"  

    Back in their hometown, breakfast was usually just reheated steamed buns, maybe with an egg or pickles—just enough to fill their stomachs. But since moving to town, with its many breakfast stalls selling all sorts of things, they occasionally treated themselves.  

    "We’re out of eggs, but there are two duck eggs left. If we’re eating at home, I’ll boil them now," she added.  

    "Wait, I’ll go buy buns and bring them back to eat at home. It’s cold outside," Lu Gu called as he sat up.  

    It had rained last night. Though the town’s roads were mostly paved with bluestone, there were muddy patches, making them slippery. Adults could manage, but children were unsteady on their feet and loved to run around. It was better to eat at home, then head back afterward.  

    He reached for the clothes draped over the bedpost and dressed, then turned to Shen Xuanqing. "Brother might already be on his way with the mule cart. Let’s just eat something ready-made from outside. That way, we can intercept him on the road and save him the extra trip."  

    "Got it," Shen Xuanqing replied absently, busy playing with Lingjun.  

    He kissed his little shuang'er’s cheeks a few times. His stubble, hastily shaved the night before in Shichuan Town, had already grown back rough, making Lingjun squirm and push his face away.  

    Remembering how his little shuang'er had cried as a baby when pricked by his stubble—being a delicate and timid shuang’er, not as tough as a little boy—he didn’t push his luck. On his first day back, he didn’t want to make the child cry, so he stopped when Lingjun resisted.  

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 226 Part 2

    Lu Gu’s hands stilled. His eyes glistened slightly, but he held back, smiling instead. “Only a little. There’s plenty of meat at home, I’ll gain it back soon.”  

    “Mm, you will. Tell me what you’d like to eat, and I’ll buy it tomorrow,” Shen Xuanqing said, his eyes bright as stars, curving into crescents as he smiled.  

    Lu Gu handed him the cloth for drying his feet. “No need to buy anything. The sheep at home are ready for slaughter. Brother mentioned today that he’d bring one over tomorrow. Perfect timing—now that you’re back, we can stew mutton.”  

    “Good, stewed mutton it is,” Shen Xuanqing agreed readily.  

    Lu Gu actually had many questions, but most had been answered at dinner. Still, those months of fleeing and hiding were left unexplored, so he asked instead, “That horse—did you buy it?”  

    At this, Shen Xuanqing grinned. “Yes, I bought it. From now on, it’s ours. Just like you said, it’s gentle. Once we’re more familiar with it, I’ll teach you to ride. You can even hold the child while sitting on it, and I’ll lead the horse for a stroll.”  

    After drying his feet, he put on his shoes and carried the basin outside to dump the water.  

    Lu Gu spread out the quilts for them, relieved he’d sunned them a few days prior—even Luo Biao’s bedding had been aired. When the latter returned tomorrow, he’d sleep comfortably.  

    As Shen Xuanqing undressed, Lu Gu waited nearby to take the clothes to the washing basin outside.  

    Worried there might be something hidden in the clothes that shouldn’t get wet, he felt through them as he asked, “Did you keep the money in the inner pockets?”  

    These clothes were Shen Xuanqing’s own, with inner pockets Lu Gu had sewn for him. Sitting on the bed to remove his shoes, he replied, “Yes, about ten taels of loose silver left, split in different pockets. Check them all.”  

    Then he suddenly remembered there was something else in the clothes—but before he could say it, Lu Gu had already pulled out a jade pendant.  

    Lu Gu had never seen this pendant before. Holding it up to the lamplight, he realized it was carved with a dragon pattern.  

    Puzzled, he asked, “Did you buy this?”  

    Shen Xuanqing took the pendant from him, then after a moment’s thought, answered truthfully in a low voice—with something like this, hiding it was pointless.  

    “Lord Cui gave me this pendant. He originally wanted me to work under him, even offering to enlist me in the Imperial Black Armor’s Feather Division. But I declined politely, our home is too far from the capital, and with elders and children here, I couldn’t possibly go. So he gave me this instead.”  

    Even Lu Gu had heard of the Imperial Black Armor—the Emperor’s personal guard, composed either of capital nobility or truly skilled men. And this pendant was an imperial item, he couldn’t help but stare.  

    The imperial palace in the capital was even more distant and unimaginable to him than Yuqing Prefecture.  

    Seeing Lu Gu’s gaze, Shen Xuanqing handed the pendant back. “Lord Cui said this was a gift from the Emperor—a palace artifact. If we ever face trouble too far from the capital, presenting this at Yuqing Prefecture’s government office will suffice.”  

    Under the lamplight, the pendant’s refined texture was unmistakable, far superior to the crude jade Lu Gu had seen before. Though no expert, he could tell the difference.  

    Yet after hearing this, Lu Gu wasn’t fooled. Looking up, he asked, “Why would Lord Cui give you this?”  

    If anything, Shen Xuanqing owed Lord Cui his life—those pursuers never reaching Jixing Town was all thanks to him. Not thanking the man would’ve been rude enough, yet instead of accepting a position under him, Shen Xuanqing came back with a jade pendant? It made no sense.  

    Shen Xuanqing sighed, then smiled. “I didn’t want to burden you with these messy affairs. Since when have you gotten so sharp?”  

    The long-absent praise made Lu Gu’s eyes curve instantly, his smile unstoppable.  

    “While fleeing in the mountains, I saved Lord Cui’s life. As the Emperor’s confidant, this pendant was his thanks. Later in Yuncheng, when he mentioned those men might trace us here, I thought of all of you at home. If harm came to you because of me, how could I bear it? So I worked with Lord Cui’s men to settle the matter. Court conflicts are nothing like petty squabbles—half a year of careful planning, and it was only resolved half a month ago.”  

    The smile faded from Lu Gu’s face, his brows knitting. “Then the wound on your face...was that from this?”  

    Shen Xuanqing touched his cheek. This injury was from the ambush half a month ago. Originally providing rear archer support, he’d ended up joining the fray when the fighting intensified. Fortunately, their side had the numbers, and it was only a minor wound.  

    “Are there more on your body?” Lu Gu pressed when he didn’t answer.  

    “Small ones, nearly healed,” Shen Xuanqing said with a faint smile. Not wanting to worry Lu Gu unnecessarily, he untied his inner robe and turned around.  

    A few faint scars marked his back, similar to the one on his face.  

    Seeing the injuries weren’t severe, Lu Gu relaxed slightly.  

    “Don’t mention these to the family. Just knowing yourself is enough. Tomorrow when we go back, I’ll only tell Mother what I said earlier,” Shen Xuanqing said, taking the chance to remove his inner garment—it was dirty too.  

    As he changed, Lu Gu turned away. “Mm, I understand. If it doesn’t rain tomorrow, we’ll go home and heat water for a proper bath.”  

    “Alright,” Shen Xuanqing replied, quickly changing into fresh clothes.  

    Once they lay down, Lu Gu took his usual spot against the wall. The lamp was blown out, plunging them into darkness—until Shen Xuanqing turned and pulled him into an embrace.  

    Six months of constant worry finally settled, his heart at last resting securely in his chest.  

    Many people had privately believed Shen Xuanqing dead after half a year without word, though few voiced it. But Lu Gu had never believed it, clinging to hope until he finally welcomed him home.

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 226 Part 1

Chapter 226  

    While Lu Gu and Shen Yan were cooking, Shen Xuanqing held Lingjun under an umbrella and went to the Yang family’s house.  

    Since Lu Gu mentioned that Yan Shi and Lao Yang had been worried about him for the past half year, often visiting and even helping take care of the child, it was only right for him to go and let them know he was safe and had returned.  

    The moment Yan Shi saw him, she burst into tears, calling him "our Erqing" between sobs. Even Lao Yang’s eyes turned wet, but at least the heavy stone in their hearts had finally been lifted.  

    The rain was heavy, but he still invited Yan Shi and Lao Yang over for dinner, and on the way, he also called for Yang Xian and the others from the tavern.  

    Few customers came to eat in the rain—only those who had entered before the downpour started. Yang Xian left the tavern in the care of his assistant, and the group headed to Zhenzhu Alley.  

    As for the Gu family, since Shen Yan wasn’t married yet and they weren’t considered proper relatives, and with the rain growing heavier, Shen Xuanqing decided not to invite them over. Still, they had taken good care of Lu Gu and Shen Yan, so he thought he’d invite them over for a proper meal another time.  

    After half a year away, the food at home tasted different from what he’d had outside. He ate a little too eagerly, and everyone at the table made sure he had his fill, piling food into his bowl and serving him rice first—after all, he must have suffered outside.  

    Once he was full, Yan Shi asked why he hadn’t sent any word home for so long.  

    At this, Lu Gu also looked at Shen Xuanqing.  

    Shen Xuanqing took a sip of tea. Ni'er sat at the table too—older than Lingjun and his little brother, old enough to understand adult conversations. He hesitated, glancing at the children.  

    Since this concerned Shen Xuanqing, Lu Gu didn’t want to miss it, so he glanced at Shen Yan.  

    Understanding his look, Shen Yan stood up and took the three children to her room to play. As for what was said outside, she could always ask later.  

    Only after they entered the room did Shen Xuanqing sigh softly and say, “Back then, halfway through the journey at Tianying Ridge, we unexpectedly ran into two groups—one hunting down the other. The mounted group was camping in the mountains at night and, afraid we’d seen them, the masked men in black tried to silence us.”  

    “Court affairs are complicated, and I only half-understood them myself. You must also remember not to speak of this. Though the matter is resolved and peace has returned, to avoid further trouble, keep it strictly to yourselves.”  

    Seeing everyone at the table nod solemnly, he continued, “While fleeing in the mountains, only Biaozi, Qiu Laoda, Qiu Laosan, and I were left. We tried to shake off the pursuers and return home, but in the forest, we stumbled upon Cui Rongwei—that Lord Cui from the capital.”  

    “I didn’t recognize him at first, only having heard his name. But Qiu Laoda, who’s traveled widely, knew more. The man and his two guards were injured, hiding in the mountains. Those masked men had been hunting them down the whole way.”  

    “Lord Cui had reinforcements. Later, we escaped together. Since the capital wasn’t safe, we hid in Yuncheng up north. The mounted group’s carriages had markings, and the men carried wooden tokens—things those black-clad men could trace back to us. That’s why I didn’t dare send letters, afraid it’d expose our whereabouts and bring trouble to you all.”  

    “Luckily, Lord Cui, unwilling to let us suffer unjustly, used some means to tie up the hidden enemies, keeping them from turning their attention to small fry like us.”  

    “Court matters are beyond my understanding. Back then, caught in the conflict, I didn’t dare act rashly. Ten days ago, Lord Cui said the matter was fully resolved—ven he no longer needed to hide, so we set off back home. Last night, we rested at Shichuan Town. Early this morning, I rode ahead alone. With today’s rain, Biaozi and the others must’ve stopped at Yuqing Prefecture.”  

    In just a few sentences, he summarized half a year.  

    The talk of pursuit and escape left Yan Shi stunned. A country woman like her could never have imagined such things happening.  

    Shen Xuanqing made it sound easy, never mentioning the dangers of their flight, but everyone present knew surviving couldn’t have been simple.  

    “You’re back, that’s what matters,” Yan Shi murmured, then couldn’t help adding, “Amitabha.”  

    They chatted about everyday matters until the rain lightened. Seeing it was getting late, the Yang family left first, telling him to rest well that night.  

    Shen Xuanqing had originally thought of rushing back to his hometown that very night to let Wei Lanxiang know he’d returned. But the rain never stopped, the roads were muddy and slippery, and night travel was too dangerous, so he had no choice but to wait until the next morning.  

    Shen Yan, having missed his explanation in the room, couldn’t contain her curiosity. When he and Lu Gu came in after closing the gate, she asked him to repeat it.  

    Shen Xuanqing recounted the same story, then asked about her marriage plans. After some idle talk, the water in the clay pot boiled, and they ladled it out to wash up. Since he’d been traveling hard, Lu Gu made sure he got the first basin of hot water to soak his feet and ease his fatigue.  

    Lu Gu went ahead to make the bed and coax Lingjun to sleep. He was in high spirits, his eyes brimming with uncontainable joy.  

    Outside, the sky had darkened. A lamp was lit in the room, and Shen Xuanqing sat at the table soaking his feet when Guaizi trotted in and rubbed against his leg.  

    After half a year apart, the dog whined and whimpered. He reached down and ruffled its head.  

    Lu Gu tucked Lingjun in, then rummaged through the chest for Shen Xuanqing’s clothes. “Change out of what you’re wearing tonight. Tomorrow, when we go back to see Mother, wear this set.”  

    “Alright,” Shen Xuanqing agreed. With the child asleep, he looked at Lu Gu and said quietly, “You’ve lost weight.”