The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 150 Part 1

Chapter 150

    Autumn’s hues spread, the once-green leaves and grass gradually yellowed and withered. Few thriving plants remained, though the wheat fields still held their verdant color. The winter wheat sprouts were still small and weak, but as they were among the scant greenery left, Wei Lanxiang came daily to check on them, guarding against any loose livestock that might break free and graze on them. 

    Early in the morning, Lu Gu and Shen Yan followed her to the fields. The three of them split up, walking through the rows to uproot any weeds among the wheat sprouts, lest the wild grass choke the crops. 

    The weather was fine today - the sky was a clear, distant blue, the sun shining warmly, and the autumn wind not too cold. It carried the refreshing crispness of the season. 

    Lu Gu straightened up, carefully stepping between the wheat sprouts to avoid crushing them as he moved to the ridge. He tossed the handful of weeds into the bamboo basket, they could be fed to the livestock later. 

    Early that morning, Shen Xuanqing had carried several rabbits in a large bamboo basket to sell in town. Besides that, he planned to visit taverns and restaurants to discuss future sales. Once their rabbit breeding expanded, selling them bit by bit wouldn’t be enough, and they might be able to supply eateries in bulk. 

    Since he needed to negotiate deals, he didn’t bring Lu Gu along. 

    There was plenty of work at home anyway, and Lu Gu didn’t mind staying behind. The embroidered handkerchiefs could be sold another time. 

    Guaizi was usually mischievous, so to prevent him from trampling the wheat sprouts, Lu Gu had him stay home to guard the house. Shen Yaoqing had gone to the mountains to gather firewood, leaving Ji Qiuyue alone to watch Zhao'er. Guaizi’s company would be good for her. 

    They weren’t the only ones weeding their fields. Earlier, they had run into Shen Shunwang and Zhou Xiangjun passing by and exchanged a few words before the pair headed to their own plot. 

    Though the work was tiring, the pleasant weather - neither too hot nor too cold made it bearable. That morning, when Zhao'er woke up, Lu Gu had gone in to hold him for a while. At three months old, the baby had grown a little, his cheeks soft, white, and tender. Lu Gu had kissed him several times. 

    Zhao'er was a good-natured child. When kissed, he thought it was play and would giggle. 

    A child’s laughter brought joy to adults, and Lu Gu’s mood remained cheerful even now as he carefully pulled weeds. Though it was autumn, wild grass was stubborn and always found a way to grow back. 

    Meanwhile, Shen Xuanqing arrived in Fenggu Town but didn’t head to the morning market. Instead, he walked along the streets, calling out to sell his rabbits. Autumn rabbits had thick fur and looked plump, and since his rabbits were well-fed and not wild, all six in his basket were fat. 

    Normally, a fat rabbit sold for at least thirty coppers. As he hawked his wares, someone stopped him to ask the price. 

    Shen Xuanqing set the basket down and lifted one of the plump rabbits. "This one’s hefty, with thick fur. If you’re serious, I’ll let it go for fifty copper coins." 

    "Fifty copper coins!" The woman with the basket raised her voice slightly, shaking her head. "That’s too expensive!" 

    Shen Xuanqing held the rabbit up, giving it a slight shake to emphasize its weight. "Look how fat this one is, its fur is thick. You can eat the meat and use the pelt for a collar or winter shoes. It’ll keep you warm." 

    The mention of a rabbit-fur collar made the hesitant woman reconsider, though she still haggled. "Rabbits don’t cost this much! Usually, they’re thirty or forty copper coins at most, yet you’re asking fifty?" 

    Shen Xuanqing remained calm. "You’re joking. Even at thirty-five copper coins, you won’t find one this plump. It’s late autumn now, rabbit fur is at its thickest, so prices naturally rise. If you’re truly interested, I won’t bluff you. How about forty-eight copper coins?" 

    "Forty," the woman countered, peering into the basket. 

    "Forty won’t do. That’s not the going rate. Forty-five, and you can take your pick." Shen Xuanqing stayed polite. Seeing her eyeing the other rabbits, he pulled out another. "These two are both forty-five copper coins. Choose whichever you like." 

    "That one looks fatter," the woman said, pointing at a gray-furred rabbit in the basket. 

    "That one’s bigger, so it’s priced higher. Can’t sell it for forty-five." Shen Xuanqing smiled. 

    The woman who had stopped him clearly had money to spare. After more back-and-forth, she finally handed over forty-five coppers for one rabbit, ending the haggling. 

    Even if she hadn’t bought it, Shen Xuanqing wouldn’t have minded, there were always other customers. 

    He tucked the coins into his pouch, then slipped it into his robe. His mood was good, and though he wasn’t smiling, his eyes held warmth. Compared to his former silent sharpness, he had grown milder. 

    This change wasn’t surprising. With food and clothing secured, and a fulang by his side day and night, no troubles could outweigh the joy of a harmonious family life. 

    Today, he had actually come to find Luo Biao, but he couldn’t explain the real reason to Lu Gu, so he had made an excuse. 

    After selling two rabbits along the street, he reached the alley beside the brothel. Coincidentally, Luo Biao might have information for him. Brothels weren’t just places where women and shuang'er earned money, the food and drink served to patrons weren’t free. Men who visited under the guise of "flower wine" drinking always ordered dishes or meat to go with their liquor. 
[flower wine (喝花酒): A euphemism for visiting brothels under the pretense of drinking]

    At the brothel’s entrance, a courtesan escorted a client out, waving a handkerchief in farewell. Shen Xuanqing’s gaze lingered on the handkerchief briefly before he turned into the alley. 

    Two days ago, he had run into Luo Biao in town, but with Lu Gu present, he couldn’t ask about the Li family. After returning home, he and Shen Yaoqing had been busy cutting firewood, delaying his plans until today. 

    However, his timing was off, the black-lacquered door was locked. Luo Biao must still be inside the brothel. 

    

Rebirth Married The Control group Fulang Chapter 129 Part 2

    Suddenly, a panicked shout rang out, followed by the sound of a stall being overturned. A massive horse, wild-eyed and out of control, barreled down the street, sending people scrambling out of its path.  

    Seeing the runaway horse charging straight toward them, the coachman, realizing he couldn’t steer clear in time, yanked the reins to stop their own horses and avoid a collision.  

    At the last moment, as the frenzied horse crashed into the carriage, the coachman leapt from his seat, rolling to safety beneath a roadside handkerchief stall.  

    Before he could even feel relief, a series of heavy thuds echoed from above. A basket of bricks and tiles tumbled from the scaffolding of a nearby building, landing squarely on the damaged carriage.  

    Chaos erupted. Bystanders ducked for cover, and when the dust settled, the scene was gruesome.  

    The runaway horse and the carriage’s two horses lay severely injured, the carriage overturned, its roof caved in by the falling debris. A cloud of dust hung over the wreckage, making it hard to see clearly.  

    The sight was so horrifying that for a moment, no one dared approach.  

    "Isn’t that the Zhang family’s carriage…?"  

    "It's the Zhang family’s carriage!"  

____

    Xu He was in the kitchen inspecting fresh fish. That afternoon, the village fish pond had been drained, and he had requested carp with roe. A few plump ones had been caught and delivered to their shop in the city, then brought to the estate.  

    Noticing how round and full-bellied the fish were, he decided to prepare fish soup for dinner. Since Zhang Fangyuan wouldn’t be back, he and Ruili shouldn’t skimp on their meal.  

    Just as the servants finished scaling and gutting the fish, and Xu He was about to start cooking, Gancao burst into the kitchen in a panic: "Fulang, it’s terrible! Word just came, a carriage accident on North Jiao Road! It’s our Zhang family’s carriage!"  

    With a clatter, the ladle in Xu He’s hand fell onto the stove.  

    He tore off his apron, face pale. "The master, is there any news of him?"  

    Gancao’s eyes reddened. "The carriage overturned, and with the buildings under repair nearby, the commotion must have startled the workers, bricks and tiles fell right onto our carriage."  

    Tears spilled over as she added, "Bystanders who dared to look said… blood was seeping out from inside."  

    A stifling heat rose in Xu He’s throat, and his legs nearly gave way. Forcing himself to stay calm, he managed, "Don’t- don’t let the young master know about this."  

    Then he bolted out the door.  

    By the time he reached the accident site, the street was still in disarray. Vendors cursed as they righted their stalls, while the wrecked carriage and horses had already been cleared away, leaving only splintered wood behind.  

    Xu He’s eyes were bloodshot, his entire gaze tinged with red. Trembling, he approached the handkerchief stall and asked the old woman in a broken voice, "Auntie, where are the people and carriage from the accident?"  

    The vendor, already fuming over her ruined goods with no one offering compensation, she snapped, "Dragged away, of course! What a disaster!"  

    Tears welled in Xu He’s eyes.  

    Noticing his distress, the woman softened. "Oh, you’re family, aren’t you? Ah, this old woman speaks too harshly, don’t take it to heart. They were taken to Shencao Hall. That fellow was quick, dived right under my stall. He’s probably fine."  

    "Really?"  

    "Why would I lie? Go on, hurry and check!"  

    Wiping his tears, Xu He climbed into the carriage, sitting right at the edge, too anxious to move further inside. He urged the driver to head straight for Shencao Hall.  

    Before the carriage even stopped, Xu He jumped down and rushed inside. Spotting a familiar figure standing with hands on hips, his back to the door, Xu He’s tears burst forth like a flood.  

    "Xu He is here!"  

    Zhang Fangyuan had been watching the physician stitch up the coachman’s head wound, though the man had abandoned the carriage in time, he’d still scraped his head in the fall.  

    Zhuang Qi nudged him, and Zhang Fangyuan turned. Seeing Xu He at the entrance, face drenched in tears, he hurried over.  

    Xu He flung himself into his arms, sobbing uncontrollably. "You’re alive! You’re alive!"  

    Zhang Fangyuan held him tightly. "I sent someone to tell you I was fine, just here at Shencao Hall."  

    "I only heard our carriage was in an accident, I thought you were—" Xu He buried his face in Zhang Fangyuan’s chest, uncaring of the onlookers.  

    Zhang Fangyuan frowned. "I had the martial arts school’s people deliver the message, and I made sure they said I was unharmed. Must’ve been a mix-up with the servants, you left in such a hurry you missed them."  

    But none of that mattered now. The only thing that did was that he was safe.  

    Zhang Fangyuan gently patted Xu He’s back, soothing him. Zhuang Qi approached but hesitated to interrupt the couple.  

    "Those bastards—"  

    Xu He lifted his head, wiping his damp cheeks. "What really happened?"  

    Zhang Fangyuan stroked his hair and first said to Zhuang Qi. "Lock those men up, get their confessions signed, and deliver them to the county government while the Salt Commissioner is still here."  

    "Got it." Zhuang Qi nodded. "I’ll handle it. You settle things here, then come over."  

    Once Zhuang Qi left, Xu He gripped Zhang Fangyuan’s sleeve. "Tell me everything. Don’t hide anything."  

    "I wasn’t planning to."  

    Zhang Fangyuan explained, "When the servant said Master Wang invited me to Wangchun Tower, I felt something was off."  

    Not long ago, he and Master Wang had dined at Wangchun Tower, where a waiter had offended Master Wang. Instead of reprimanding the waiter, the manager defended him, leading to an argument. Master Wang had sworn never to return.  

    Given how recently this had happened, even if they’d privately reconciled, Master Wang wouldn’t invite friends back so soon, it’d be a loss of face.  

    And Master Wang cared deeply about face.  

    With the salt voucher competition stirring up tension in the city, Zhang Fangyuan couldn’t afford to be careless. If his suspicions were correct, someone had lured him out deliberately.  

    The route to Wangchun Tower passed through North Jiao Road, which was the Qin family's territory. Given their long-standing feud, it wasn’t hard to suspect Qin Zhong’s involvement, even if the motive was unclear.  

    So he’d left Xu He behind, instructed the coachman beforehand, and discreetly disembarked near Ji'an Martial Arts School to gather backup, trailing the carriage at a distance.  

    Sure enough, disaster struck in Qin family’s domain. Zhang Fangyuan and the martial artists swiftly apprehended the men who’d released the horse and dropped the bricks.  

    Xu He shuddered at the close call. "Thank goodness you were alert and took precautions."  

    "It’s over now. The Qin family’s crimes have caught up with them, with witnesses and evidence, there’s no escape. Not even the magistrate can shield them this time."  

Rebirth of the Useless Young Master’s Counterattack Chapter 12

Chapter 12: Young Master Mu's Magnanimity  

Mu Lichuan had no intention of flaunting his status to bully others. But in his view, aside from putting on an act before his father and the Mu family, there was no need to humble himself or flatter anyone else.  

"The Mu family?" Zhang Qinglian was well aware of the Mu family's contributions to Chuan High, but she never imagined this boy had any connection to them. Moreover, he had been attending school for some time without ever revealing this fact. She immediately turned a questioning gaze toward the principal.  

The principal nodded. "Indeed, he is the eldest young master of the Mu family. Your actions just now—" He left the rest unsaid, but the implication was clear: Are you disregarding the Mu family?  

Zhang Qinglian studied the boy before her. "I respect the Mu family and acknowledge their contributions to Chuanshi. But if the young master of such a family abuses his power, then even if you dismiss me, I have nothing to say." She had found it strange earlier, why would the principal intervene over a simple student punishment?  

The principal's expression darkened. "Don’t think I won’t fire you!" This woman was impossible, knowing full well who Mu Lichuan was, yet still being so stubborn.  

"Of course you can. But without me, Chuan High may struggle to rank among the top three nationally." Zhang Qinglian knew her stance was unwise, but having already offended him, begging for mercy now would only humiliate her further. Better to retreat gracefully.  

"I did nothing wrong. He violated school rules and acted as if it were justified." The middle-aged woman's face was stern, her tone resolute.  

The principal wished he could gag her. Zhang Qinglian might be inflexible, but her students' grades soared under her guidance, exactly the kind of teacher the school valued.  

Mu Lichuan's eyes remained impassive. "So the teacher is in the right after all?" If she had given in immediately, he would have despised her even more. But her gaze was clear, devoid of any groveling.  

"Perhaps my punishment was too harsh. But as a role model for your classmates, you shouldn’t act spoiled, even as the Mu family's young master." Zhang Qinglian always followed her principles, believing she had a clear conscience.  

Mu Lichuan's expression softened slightly. "Fine, I’ll accept the punishment. Teacher, you may return to class."  

The outcome took the principal completely by surprise. At the same time, he couldn’t help but admire the magnanimity of the Mu family's heir, compared to his own fawning behavior.  

"You may go back to class too." Zhang Qinglian appreciated Mu Lichuan's attitude and saw no further need for discipline.  

Thus, Class 4 watched in bewilderment as the Tigress reentered with Mu Lichuan. Something had changed, she almost seemed... pleasant.  

The moment the bell rang and Zhang Qinglian left, the classroom erupted. Ou Jingyao spun around. "Lichuan, your charm is too much, even the Tigress treats you differently!"  

Mu Lichuan flipped through his English textbook before closing it. This was child's play to him. Math posed no challenge either. The only subject requiring review was Chinese.  

"Obviously! Lichuan aces every exam without even trying. Unlike dome people who scrape the bottom no matter what," someone taunted Ou Jingyao.  

Ou Jingyao's face twisted in irritation before firing back. Meanwhile, Mu Lichuan observed his lively, youthful classmates, feeling something in his own heart stir back to life.  

"Lichuan! Mu Lichuan! Come out! Something’s happened at home, your mother has been taken to the hospital!" Before Mu Lichuan could step out, a servant's panicked voice rang through the hallway. This was how the young master had instructed him to address the matter.  

Mu Lichuan swayed on his feet. "What happened?! Hurry!" He had already altered fate, why was his mother still in danger?  

Transmigrated As Cannon Fodder To Marry Chapter 90 Part 2

    Jiang Lin smiled. "Commander, that logic doesn’t hold. Is there anything worse than death? Once life is gone, everything is lost. As long as one lives, there’s always hope."  

    "And without the Wei family’s lives as leverage, are you certain you can restrain the two of us?"  

    "After all, the assassins sent to the Wei mansion had to be hauled away on carts."  

    Yu Yi’s frown deepened, his expression darkening. "What do you want?"  

    He was now open to negotiation.  

    Jiang Lin replied calmly, "Simple, let us enter the palace."  

    "Impossible!" Yu Yi refused outright. Before leaving the palace, the emperor had explicitly ordered him not to let these two near the palace or give them any chance to turn the tables.  

    "If you refuse to cooperate, don’t blame me for using force. Without the two of you, the Wei family is no threat. Even if the others are never found, they’re insignificant. Arrest them!"  

    At his command, the Imperial Guards rushed forward, but froze when they saw one movement: Wei Yunzhao stood up from his wheelchair.  

    Wei Yunzhao said to Yu Yi, "Commander Yu, it’s best not to sacrifice your men needlessly."  

    "Please, grant us passage. We only wish to enter the palace to prove our innocence. Rest assured, we have a way to ensure His Majesty doesn't punish you. Thank you."  

    Wei Yunzhao bowed slightly before sitting back in his wheelchair, allowing Jiang Lin to push him out.  

    The Imperial Guards instinctively blocked their path, but Yu Yi let them pass.  

    His subordinates protested, "Commander, the emperor decreed their deaths. If they don’t die, we will."  

    Yu Yi shook his head. "We can’t stop them. This was a trap from the beginning, they were waiting for us to come."  

    If the Wei family had still been present, they could have been used as leverage. But with them gone and these two unshackled, resisting the decree was futile. It would only lead to pointless deaths.  

    Yu Yi turned. "Return to the palace!"  

    The real drama would unfold there, not at the Wei mansion.  

    Jiang Lin and Wei Yunzhao were practically escorted into the palace by Yu Yi and the Imperial Guards. Since Emperor Changde’s decree hadn't yet been publicly announced, they encountered no obstacles and soon arrived at the Hall of Governance.  

    Emperor Changde had been waiting for news of the Wei family’s extermination, too distracted to review memorials. Instead of good news, however, he was met with the very people he wanted dead.  

    His eyes widened in shock. Chief Eunuch Gan Yongfu immediately berated Yu Yi, "Yu Yi! His Majesty ordered you to execute the Wei traitors at the execution grounds! How dare you bring them into the palace? Are you rebelling too?"  

    Emperor Changde demanded, "Yu Yi, explain yourself!"  

    Yu Yi reported truthfully, "Your Majesty, the rest of the Wei family has already been hidden by Lord Wei. Lord Wei and Young Master Jiang claim there is more to the poisoning accusation and wish to plead their case before you. I—"  

    Before he could finish, Emperor Changde slammed his hand on the table, furious. "How dare you question my judgment? A mere Imperial Guard commander, have you grown tired of living?"  

    Yu Yi knelt hastily. "I wouldn’t dare. I only wished to spare my men unnecessary deaths. I beg Your Majesty’s mercy."  

    He added, "If Lord Wei and Young Master Jiang are not wrongfully accused, I will carry out Your Majesty’s orders at any cost."  

    Yu Yi was no fool. Allowing Jiang Lin and Wei Yunzhao into the palace was already defiance. Without another decree to countermand the first, he and his men would surely die. But forcing a confrontation would also mean death. He had no choice but to gamble.  

    Loyalty was one thing, but Yu Yi admitted Jiang Lin was right about one thing: only the living have hope.  

    Emperor Changde was so furious he could barely think. "Yu Yi!"  

    Seeing the emperor’s rage, Jiang Lin stepped in to mediate. "Your Majesty, don’t be so angry. Your health doesn’t seem the best, and rage harms the body. If you accidentally anger yourself to death, people will laugh. History might even record you as the only emperor to die of anger, how embarrassing."  

    His words successfully redirected Emperor Changde’s fury. The emperor’s eyes bulged as he snarled, "Jiang Lin!"  

    "You deserve death! Today is the day you and that dog Wei Yunzhao die!"  

    The change in address showed the depth of his hatred.  

    "Your Majesty, don’t rush. Once today’s events conclude, we’ll see whose death it really is. Wait until everyone arrives, and then we’ll begin the real discussion."  

    Emperor Changde, recalling the last incident, realized they were repeating their tactics. His gaze turned icy. "Today, I will not allow you to leave the palace alive. No one can save you. Yu Yi, this is your last chance, kill them!"  

    Before Yu Yi could move, the other Imperial Guards drew their swords.  

    Jiang Lin remained unperturbed, glancing outside where a large group of officials approached.  

    "No need to hurry. The guests aren’t all here yet. How can the show start without them?"  

    A crowd of ministers hurried in, most of the court’s civil and military officials present. They immediately knelt before Emperor Changde.  

    Seeing so many ministers, the emperor’s hands trembled with rage.  

    "I didn't summon you! Have you come to join these traitors in rebellion? Do you still recognize me as your emperor?!"  

    The Sixth Prince, Yue Heng, was absent. Leading the group was not Zhou’s or Du’s father, but Yin Ji.  

    Yin Ji bowed. "Your Majesty, we would never dare. We beg Your Majesty’s understanding."  

    "If not rebellion, then what? Speak! Let me hear why my ministers are aiding traitors, is it to force my abdication or stage a coup?!"  

    Wei Yunzhao spoke calmly. "Your Majesty misunderstands. These ministers are here only as witnesses. Some truths have been buried too long. Today, they will come to light."  

    "Once everyone arrives, we will begin."  

    As if on cue, a voice rang out from beyond the hall. "They’re here."  

Rebirth Married The Control group Fulang Chapter 129 Part 1

Chapter 129

    Qin Zhong was in a desperate hurry. He rushed out through the back gate of the county office, hastily gave a few instructions to the coachman, and was about to board the carriage when he faintly sensed someone watching him from the shadows. As he looked up, a figure flashed past the corner of the alley across the street. Qin Zhong glanced at it but, preoccupied with urgent matters, dismissed it as a trick of the eye.  

    "Let’s go, back to the estate."  

    After the Qin family’s carriage had driven away, the fleeting figure reappeared, craning its neck to watch the carriage for a few moments before finally leaving.  

____

    Zhang Fangyuan returned home and told Xu He about the strange encounter he’d had that day. For the moment, the outcome was secondary. Xu He sighed in admiration: "Teacher Luo truly lives up to his reputation as the Chancellor of the Imperial Academy. Even his casual acquaintances are high-ranking officials."  

    "Exactly. At the banquet the other day, I heard Teacher Luo mention that the Salt Commissioner was his former classmate, they’ve known each other since they were young. Later, Teacher Luo placed in the first class of the imperial examinations, entered the Hanlin Academy, and was then transferred to the Imperial Academy. He’s always been a scholar of integrity."  

    "Lord Yu placed in the third class and went on to serve as a local official, rising swiftly through the ranks. I thought both elders had already retired, but who would’ve guessed Lord Yu is now the Salt Commissioner? That’s a lucrative post."  

    Xu He leaned against an ice basin, lazily fanning himself. Even the breeze from the fan felt cool. Summer had arrived early this year. While May wasn’t typically scorching, the midday sun was already fierce. Wealthy families had begun using ice to keep cool, and the streets were now filled with vendors selling chilled drinks and ices.  

    "Now that we know Teacher Luo’s prestige and connections, I’m even more worried for our Ruijin."  

    Zhang Fangyuan understood Xu He’s concern: "For a merchant family like ours, the Luo family is indeed beyond our reach. I’ve never wanted Ruijin to climb the social ladder by attaching himself to nobility. But the children grew up together, green plums and bamboo horse with genuine affection, what can we do?"  

[青梅竹马 (qīng méi zhú mǎ): lit. Green plums and bamboo horse; fig. Childhood sweethearts.]  

    Xu He said, "I can see their feelings for each other. Though Ruijin has never spoken openly about it, I used to be puzzled. Now I understand his hesitation, he probably feels that without any scholarly achievements, he’d only hold Xiaoxing back."  

    "He’s always been thoughtful, not like Little Ruili, who’s a bit simple-minded."  

    Zhang Fangyuan chuckled. "If Ruijin truly has those intentions, I, as his father, will naturally prepare a generous dowry so Xiaoxing is well taken care of."  

    "This is just us chatting in private. The children are still young, no need to rush into marriage." Xu He said, "Though I’d like Ruijin to settle down soon, he’s completely focused on the imperial exams. He might not even be thinking about marriage yet, so let’s not pressure him."  

    Zhang Fangyuan had always adored children. When they first had twins, raising them was no small hardship. Once the children grew older and more independent, Xu He had considered having more with Zhang Fangyuan. But perhaps their luck had been spent on the twins, as they never conceived again.  

    Now that they were older, Xu He wasn’t afraid of being mocked for "an old clam producing pearls," but Zhang Fangyuan worried that age had weakened them, and a pregnancy might endanger both mother and child. Such tragedies weren’t uncommon in the city, so his caution was understandable. 

[老蚌生珠" (lǎo bàng shēng zhū): lit. An old clam producing pearls; fig. Older women (or men) having children late in life]

    Seeing how well their two children had turned out, though they lacked the bustle of a large family, there was also less conflict, and neither was a rebellious troublemaker, Xu He gradually grew more at ease.  

    This meant the burden of continuing the Zhang family line now rested on Ruijin’s shoulders.  

    As a child, Ruijin disliked noise, seldom spoke, and preferred reading and horseback riding - normal interests, but his temperament was too reserved.  

    Xu He had heard that no one was perfect, if someone excelled in one area, they were bound to lack in another. He feared Ruijin would become an "iron tree that never blooms for ten thousand years," doomed to be the kind of man constantly pestered to marry, leaving the Zhang family line in peril. That was why he had considered having more children with Zhang Fangyuan.

[万年不开花的铁树 (wànnián bù kāihuā de tiěshù): lit. Iron tree that never blooms for ten thousand years; fig. A person who is emotionally closed-off, resistant to love, or seemingly incapable of romantic attachment, like a tree that refuses to bloom.]  

    Later, when he noticed Ruijin’s kindness toward Luo Yuxing, he was overjoyed - Ruijin's emotions were normal! Xu He wasn’t afraid of Ruijin marrying early, he only feared him never marrying at all.  

    After collecting his thoughts, he changed his mind and said to Zhang Fangyuan, "When Ruijin returns from the capital, if he still hasn’t made any moves toward Xiaoxing, I’ll bring it up myself and give him a little nudge."  

    "Alright, we’ll talk when he’s back."  

    As the two were happily discussing the future, a servant entered and announced, "Master, Master Wang from Qiyu Lane invites you to a gathering at Wangchun Tower."  

    Xu He glanced at Zhang Fangyuan. "Master Wang loves hosting banquets. The Wang family didn’t qualify for the salt vouchers this time, and now that they know we’re participating in the bidding, he’s probably waiting for you to share the excitement."  

    Zhang Fangyuan smiled helplessly. "That’s just how he is, always eager for a lively gathering."  

    Then he paused, frowning slightly. He asked the servant, "Are you certain Master Wang said Wangchun Tower?"  

    The servant replied, "The messenger said exactly that."  

    Xu He sensed something amiss. "What’s wrong?"  

    Zhang Fangyuan shook his head. "Nothing, just asking."  

    With that, he stood. "Well, sitting at home waiting for the results is agonizing. A drink outside might make the time pass faster. It’s scorching out, you stay home and rest. I won’t take you with me today."  

    Xu He’s brow twitched slightly. Usually, when Master Wang invited Zhang Fangyuan, he liked to bring Xu He along, since Master Wang and his wife were a loving couple who often attended social events together. Though men, women and ge'ers were seated separately, Zhang Fangyuan enjoyed bringing his fulang, so Xu He was accustomed to accompanying him. Today, however, he was left behind.  

    But he didn’t dwell on it, the heat was a valid excuse. "A bunch of rough men drinking and boasting, I’d rather not go anyway."  

    Zhang Fangyuan stood and squeezed Xu He’s hand. "I’ll be off, then."  

    "Alright."  

    Zhang Fangyuan headed out and saw the servants had already prepared the carriage. "Switch to a smaller one, my fulang isn’t coming today."  

    "Yes."  

    After a short wait, the smaller carriage was ready. Though the interior was hotter, many families preferred compact carriages in summer, with an ice basin inside and the curtains drawn, the confined space stayed cooler.  

    The route from Qingshan Lane to Wangchun Tower passed from the west to the north of the city. Recently, a main road connecting these areas had been under repair after a fire broke out during the heatwave, engulfing several densely packed buildings.  

    As the carriage passed this section, the sounds of construction - hammering and sawing filled the air.  

    The coachman guided the horses at a leisurely pace, the journey smooth and unhurried.  

    "Move aside! Move aside! The horse is spooked!"  

Rebirth of the Useless Young Master’s Counterattack Chapter 11

Chapter 11: The Noble Youth 

Mu Lichuan searched his memories carefully, but his mind remained blank, he couldn't recall who this middle-aged man was at all. The only thing he could confirm was that the man knew his identity. So he pressed his lips together coldly without speaking, giving off an air of having suffered an immense injustice.  

The principal felt extremely awkward. Clearly, the young master of the Mu family had no intention of acknowledging him. Then again, it made sense, he was the school's top student, the heir of the Mu family. Who would have thought he'd end up standing in punishment? From the look of it, it must have been a misunderstanding.  

"Young Master Mu, please wait a moment." After saying this, the principal pushed open the classroom door.  

Zhang Qinglian was in the middle of lecturing when the door swung open. All eyes turned toward it, surprised that the principal would interrupt their class.  

"Director Zhang, could you step out for a moment?" The principal's tone was gentle, clearly indicating there was something to discuss.  

Zhang Qinglian glanced at her students and said sternly, "Review on your own for now." She had no idea why the principal would come at this time.  

As they stood in the hallway, the entire Class 4 craned their necks, eager to hear what was being said. But when the Tigress shot them a look, they quickly decided curiosity wasn't worth the risk, especially if it meant failing her English exams later.  

Zhang Qinglian was satisfied that her students feared her. Otherwise, managing them during their rebellious phase would have been a nightmare.  

Mu Lichuan had no interest in their conversation. His mind was occupied with how to eliminate Mu Xiaolin, only then could he truly be free of future threats.  

"Student Mu... Student Mu!" Zhang Qinglian called several times before the boy finally snapped out of his thoughts, further fueling her anger. "Is this how you respect your teachers?" The principal had just asked her to let him back into class, yet here he was, completely ignoring her.  

Mu Lichuan's youthful face was frosty. "Teacher, respect isn't just about words. In my opinion, real respect is shown through academic performance. Otherwise, no matter how much you praise a teacher, poor grades will only drag everyone down, even affect your bonuses." His tone was calm, merely stating facts.  

Exam results directly impacted teachers' promotions and salaries, which was why they pushed their students so hard. Especially since this class would soon enter their final high school year.  

This was the first time Zhang Qinglian had heard such twisted logic, yet she couldn't find fault with it. Her strictness was indeed meant to boost their grades, but... "Student Mu, grades determine your future, whether you get into a good university or not." Her implication was clear: while good grades benefited teachers, they weren't the sole focus.  

The principal frowned at the way this teacher dared to talk back to the Mu family's heir. "Director Zhang, just let the boy return to class. Standing here solves nothing, and it certainly doesn't set a good example."  

Zhang Qinglian had earned her position through merit. Her classes consistently achieved the highest scores, which was why she had been promoted to grade director.  

"Principal, even if he's a top student, why are you showing him favoritism?" She wasn't foolish, this was just a student being punished. Why was the principal interfering?  

Finally, realization dawned on Mu Lichuan. The man in front of him was the principal, that was why he had been addressed as "Young Master Mu."  

"Because half of this school was funded by the Mu family," the boy said coolly, his entire demeanor radiating superiority.  

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 149 Part 2

    Come to think of it, he’d never heard Lu Gu ask for anything. Every day, aside from household chores, Lu Gu did embroidery, handkerchiefs, and fans which brought in some money, but not much.  

    “If you’re tired from work, you don’t have to keep doing needlework. What I give you is enough.” For Shen Xuanqing, earning money was to support his fulang and, eventually, children. Since he could provide, there was no need for Lu Gu to toil.  

    At the mention of embroidery, Lu Gu looked up. Normally, he’d nod along, but this time he didn’t.  

    “What’s wrong?” Shen Xuanqing asked, puzzled.  

    Lu Gu hesitated, then said softly, “It’s not tiring. I only do needlework when I have time.”  

    Shen Xuanqing was taken aback. He stayed silent, waiting for Lu Gu to continue.  

    “The flowers on the handkerchiefs aren’t complicated. I can manage, or at least finish one in two or three days. It doesn’t earn much, but… I like it.” Lu Gu’s voice was very small.  

    He was slow-witted and clumsy with words. Since childhood, he’d had no talents except embroidery, taught by his mother, who had praised him as a quick learner. Though she passed early, leaving him with only basic skills, it was enough to earn a little money.  

    Of course, back then, Du Hehua never let him keep a single copper coin. Only after coming to the Shen family did he keep all his earnings, with Shen Xuanqing never taking a copper coin.  

    Back then, embroidery had been a chore done in fear of beatings and scoldings, there was no joy in it. But since joining the Shen family last year, he’d gradually rediscovered the happiness and satisfaction of embroidery.  

    And whether it was Wei Lanxiang or Ji Qiuyue, they always praised his work, which delighted him even more.  

    “You… like it?” Shen Xuanqing murmured, genuinely surprised.  

    “Mm.” Lu Gu nodded earnestly, then added in a small voice, “I like doing embroidery.”  

    Shen Xuanqing had never heard his fulang express likes or dislikes before. The realization sank in slowly before he broke into a smile. “If you like it, then do it. I won’t stop you.”  

    “I spoke too hastily earlier.” He admitted with a chuckle, watching as Lu Gu’s expression brightened again. Unable to resist, he pulled him into a hug.  

    Lu Gu didn’t resist as Shen Xuanqing rubbed the back of his neck. The door was closed, the window half-shuttered, and no one was outside. He returned the embrace, heart full of joy.  

    Happiness made people talkative, especially with those closest.  

    Lu Gu buried his face in Shen Xuanqing’s chest, secretly rubbing his cheek twice, thinking himself sly, unaware Shen Xuanqing noticed everything.  

    When he looked up, his eyes were curved with smile. “The money I earn isn’t much, but it’s still income. Saving up ten or eight copper coins is enough for little things. My mother used to do the same, when she had money, she’d buy me treats and toys without asking my father.”  

    “She taught me embroidery, saying I could earn my own money and never need to rely on others’ moods.” In his happiness, the words spilled out.  

    As a child, he hadn’t fully understood his mother’s lessons. Even growing up in the Lu family, he remained oblivious. Only after coming to the Shen family did he grasp their meaning.  

    Besides, earning money himself was satisfying. Though little, it was stitched by his own hands - honest work.  

    However, this displeased Shen Xuanqing. He pinched Lu Gu’s cheek, frowning. “Are you saying I’m like your father? That you can’t ask me for money, that I’d make you beg? What ‘moods’ do I have?”  

    Lu Gu faltered. Thinking it over, he realized it was true, whether from big earnings or noticing his dwindling coin purse, Shen Xuanqing always gave him more.  

    Embarrassed, he fell silent, knowing he’d misspoken.  

    Shen Xuanqing grew even more displeased. He gripped the back of Lu Gu’s neck, intending to vent frustration, but couldn’t bring himself to squeeze hard. Instead, he leaned down and bit Lu Gu’s cheek.  

    Lu Gu instinctively tried to pull back, but his waist was locked in place. He could only scrunch his face and endure until Shen Xuanqing released him.  

    Shen Xuanqing huffed, letting go almost immediately to plant a firm kiss instead. This heartless shuang'er, when had he ever been stingy?  

    Still trapped, Lu Gu wiped his cheek with his sleeve, worried. In broad daylight, with teeth marks, what if someone saw?  

    Afraid of leaving traces of intimacy, he fretted silently before mustering a quiet complaint: “Even Guaizi doesn’t bite.”  

    Shen Xuanqing paused, then burst into laughter. Their Guzi had learned to insult him! He squeezed Lu Gu’s neck. “Are you saying I’m worse than a dog?”  

    Lu Gu couldn’t help giggling, eyes bright. “No, no,” he denied, though not very convincingly, which only fueled Shen Xuanqing’s “anger.”  

    Before Lu Gu could defend himself further, he was kissed into silence.  

    The livestock at the new house needed feeding. He Zhi and Chen Dongdong gathered grass for drying, leaving fresh grass for them to handle. After resting awhile, Wei Lanxiang called for Shen Yan to gather grass and let the ducks out.  

    Lu Gu sat before the bronze mirror, checking his lips and cheeks for teeth marks or redness. Only after confirming nothing was visible did he relax, at least now he could go out to work.  

Rebirth to Erase Dark History Chapter 48

Chapter 48: A Little Awkward  

　　Yang Jiabo sobbed quietly as Wei Jing comforted him in a gentle voice. "It's okay, it's okay. Everything will get better."  

　　"But the past hurts can't be erased. Every time I think about them, it feels like my heart is being torn apart. I get so angry I want to smash things, there's this suffocating rage inside me that I can't release or suppress. If it weren't for Dad, I might have really... you know. I know it's wrong to think like this. I should stay calm, face problems head-on, not run away. But I can't. I hate myself, I feel worthless, like a useless piece of trash. What's the point of living?" Yang Jiabo's voice grew more agitated as he spoke.  

　　"Jiajia, listen to me. Calm down." Wei Jing held him tightly, whispering in his ear, "Jiajia, you're amazing. You're smart, capable, hardworking, a good son who cares for your dad. You're good-looking, likable, and you cook like a professional chef. And you're brave. Remember? You saved me from those traffickers. You got us both away from those criminals. Without you, who knows where I'd be now? You care about family, about friends. You act tough, but you're soft-hearted, always thinking of others, rarely yourself. Jiajia, sometimes it's okay to be a little selfish."  

　　"Wuwu I'm not... not as good as you say." Yang Jiabo sniffled.  

　　"You are. You have to see your own strengths, not just your flaws. You're outstanding, better than most people. And you'll only get better, so much so that others will have to look up to you."  

　　Wei Jing’s warm smile slowly soothed Yang Jiabo’s turbulent emotions. Curled up like a child, he clung to Wei Jing, his sobs gradually quieting until he fell asleep. Wei Jing looked down at him, brushing away the teardrops clinging to his lashes.  

　　The two slept nestled together. The next morning, when Yang Jiabo woke up, the memory of crying pitifully in Wei Jing’s arms last night hit him with a wave of embarrassment. 

Oh god, oh god, how am I supposed to face him? Why couldn’t I hold it in? 

　　"Morning. What’s with the daze?" Wei Jing opened his eyes to find Yang Jiabo sitting there, eyes still red, staring blankly - like a silly little rabbit. He couldn’t resist tugging at the messy strands of hair sticking up on Yang Jiabo’s head.  

　　"Ah, m-morning. You, uh, sleep a bit more. I’ll go make breakfast." Yang Jiabo stammered, kicking off the blanket and darting out like a startled rabbit.  

　　Wei Jing chuckled, knowing he was just shy. He’d probably retreat into himself for a bit before returning to his usual self. Frowning slightly, Wei Jing wondered how to coax this little rabbit out of its burrow, to face him openly, without layers of pretense. He wanted Jiajia to feel free to laugh or cry in front of him.  

　　In the bathroom, Yang Jiabo stared at his reflection - messy hair, slightly swollen red eyes, a pink nose. He looked pitiful. Crying so hard last night had been humiliating, but this morning, he actually felt lighter. And Wei Jing’s embrace had been so warm… he couldn’t help craving it.  

　　He splashed cold water on his face, shaking off the thoughts. After a quick wash, he changed into loose casual clothes. By the time he returned to the bedroom, Wei Jing had already left to freshen up.  

　　For breakfast, Yang Jiabo skipped instant noodles and took the time to make two bowls of hand-pulled noodles. He loved wheat-based dishes, and his noodles were fragrant and chewy, far better than store-bought ones.  

　　"If I get used to this, I’ll really suffer when I go abroad," Wei Jing remarked between bites.  

　　"When are you leaving?" Yang Jiabo asked.  

　　"In two days." Wei Jing didn’t have much time left. "What, trying to kick me out?"  

　　"No! I just thought… if you have time, I could teach you a few home-style dishes. Then you can cook for yourself later."  

　　"Sounds good. Let’s go grocery shopping after breakfast, then you can teach me." Wei Jing liked the idea.  

　　"Deal. But fair warning, I’m a strict teacher."  

　　"Don’t worry, I’ll be a good student."  

　　After breakfast, Yang Jiabo went to water and weed the fledgling fleeceflower plants behind the bamboo house, then checked on the thriving orchids and cordyceps. Wei Jing eyed the rows of orchids. "Jiajia, you’ve got a real talent for these. These are high-quality specimens. When are you planning to sell? I hear orchid prices are skyrocketing, and they’ll keep rising. The two mutated lianban orchids you sold, their value has tripled. Maybe you should hold onto these a bit longer."  

　　"Brother, if it’s not too much trouble… could you help me sell some? I’m worried the farm’s funds might run short," Yang Jiabo said sheepishly.  

　　"I’ve got some savings, you can use them if needed. As for the flowers, I’ll help arrange sales. Once my dad’s back from his business trip, you can send the orchids to him."  

　　"I still have some money, but… won’t this be too much to ask of Uncle?" Yang Jiabo hesitated. A high-ranking military hospital director helping him sell flowers, wasn’t that overkill?  

　　"It’s fine. He’ll just pass them to my grandpa. And if you pick out a nice orchid for Grandpa, he’ll happily handle the rest." The old man was still mad at Wei Jing, so he planned to rope his dad into this. 

　　"Alright. Same as before, half the profits go to you."  

　　"The farm needs the money. This time, just gift Grandpa the flowers, no splitting. Next time, when you’re better off, we’ll share." Wei Jing didn’t actually want the money, but Yang Jiabo would never agree otherwise.  

　　"That’s not right. Don’t you have expenses abroad too?" Yang Jiabo felt guilty.  

　　"You’ve given me plenty before. It’s settled, I’m your brother, so you have to listen to me." Wei Jing insisted firmly.  

　　"Brother… thank you." Yang Jiabo’s gratitude was sincere. Without Wei Jing, even if he grew priceless flowers, he’d have no way to sell them.  

　　"You’re calling me ‘brother’ now, no need for thanks." Wei Jing ruffled his hair affectionately.  

　　"Tch, getting cocky just because I called you that? Don’t mess up my hair!" Yang Jiabo dodged, swatting his hand away.  

　　"Your hair’s so soft. They say soft hair means a tender-hearted personality."  

　　"Who fed you that nonsense? Total misinformation." Yang Jiabo refused to admit he was soft.  

　　"It’s a general observation, not absolute." Wei Jing didn’t argue further, humoring him.  

　　Yang Jiabo wheeled out his bicycle for grocery shopping. Wei Jing eyed his slender frame and took control. "I’ll ride. You sit behind." Yang Jiabo didn’t protest, watching Wei Jing’s long legs pedal effortlessly.  

　　"Jiajia, where are we shopping?" Wei Jing asked.  

　　"West City Market, it’s close, has a good selection, and prices are fair."  

　　"Isn’t that near my dad’s hospital?" Wei Jing tensed slightly, wary of bumping into his mom.  

　　"Yeah. Why? Homesick?" Yang Jiabo teased.  

　　"Pfft, I’m too old for that." Wei Jing forced a laugh.  

　　"Age has nothing to do with missing home." Yang Jiabo rolled his eyes.  

　　"Speaking of groceries… whatever happened to Bai Cheng, that kid you used to sell veggies with?" Wei Jing swiftly changed the subject.  

　　"He wasn’t great at school. After middle school, he became a vendor. Selling vegetables in the mornings, doing construction work in the afternoons. His grandma’s still hanging on, but medical bills are steep. He’s got a younger brother who does well in school. Between the old lady’s treatments and the kid’s tuition, it’s rough." Every family had its struggles. Bai Cheng’s family doted on the younger son, treating him like garbage.  

　　But despite his simple-minded appearance, Bai Cheng knew he could only rely on himself. His hard work was likely saving up for a house and marriage. 

Annoying, he’s already planning for a wife at his age? 

　　"He’s diligent. If he keeps at it, he’ll build a decent life." Maybe not riches, but stability.  

　　"Yeah. Rumor is his business is doing well. Never thought I’d mentor a professional veggie seller." Yang Jiabo grinned. "Oh, we might run into him today."  

　　Chatting and laughing, they reached the market quickly. Yang Jiabo spotted crayfish and bought two pounds, then picked up seasonings, side dishes, a chicken, and some veggies and fruit.  

　　Soon, the bike was laden with bags. Just as they were leaving, they ran into Bai Cheng. His stall was packed with seasonal produce. Thrilled to see Yang Jiabo, he shoved a bag of mountain cucumbers at him. Chilled cucumbers paired well with spicy crayfish. Laden like refugees, Wei Jing and Yang Jiabo headed home.  

　　That day, Wei Jing spent most of his time learning to cook under Yang Jiabo’s guidance. By dinner, Yang Jianjun and Yang Qing were greeted with a table full of dishes. Some fragrant and delicious, others oddly flavored or slightly burnt.  

　　The failures ended up as dinner for Dahei and Xiaohei, much to Yang Qing’s dismay. Wei Jing was sheepish, who knew cooking required so much precision? Heat control, timing, seasoning… He could manage "edible," but "tasty" was a stretch.  

　　Three days passed in a blink. Wei Jing left. After days of constant companionship, his absence felt stark. But the farm kept Yang Jiabo busy. He contacted Wei Changdong and sent over most of the mutated orchids for sale.  

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 149 Part 1

Chapter 149

    Pears quench thirst and moisten dryness, whether eaten raw or steamed—both were highly beneficial. Shen Yan held a pear up to Ji Qiuyue, who was nursing a child, letting her take a bite.  

    With her hands full, Ji Qiuyue couldn’t hold it herself. Seeing her younger sister’s eagerness, she took a small taste before smiling and saying, “Go ahead and eat it, don’t mind me. I’m neither thirsty nor hungry right now, what’s the point of eating this?”  

    Shen Yan grinned, lifting the pear to take a big bite. Sweet and crisp, she mumbled with her mouth full, “Then, sister-in-law, you can have some roasted chicken later. Second Brother bought one, and it smells so good, just a bit cold now. Mother said we’ll heat it up for lunch.”  

    “Alright, alright.” Ji Qiuyue agreed. Noticing the child in her arms had stopped nursing, she fastened her clothes with one hand, then patted and rocked Zhao’er until he fell asleep before laying him in the center of the bed. She tucked him in and placed long pillows on either side to block him.  

    The two of them tiptoed out of the room to avoid waking Zhao’er.  

    As soon as they stepped outside, they saw Lu Gu and Wei Lanxiang picking vegetables in the yard. Wei Lanxiang lowered her voice and asked, “Asleep?”  

    “Asleep.” Ji Qiuyue nodded.  

    “Our Zhao’er has been so well-behaved lately. He knows when the adults are eating and just goes to sleep on his own.” Wei Lanxiang’s face crinkled with smiles as she spoke of her eldest grandson, her words full of praise for his obedience and understanding.  

    Lu Gu smiled slightly but said nothing. He picked up a small bamboo tray to scoop the vegetables from the wooden basin, his hands dripping with water.  

    Guaizi, still thinking about the roasted chicken, nudged his calf with his head. Since his hands were wet, Lu Gu gently pushed the dog aside with his leg and whispered, “Go play. I’ll feed you later.”  

    Dahui and the others were guarding the new house, leaving only Guaizi in the yard, whining. But after a while, seeing that Lu Gu had no intention of feeding him, the dog stopped and dug out an old kickball from the corner of the firewood pile to play with, though his enthusiasm was clearly lacking.  

    With Zhao’er asleep, Ji Qiuyue ate more freely, no longer needing to tend to the child.  

    There were only two chicken legs. Lu Gu, remembering he had already eaten the mixed-broth soup, didn’t compete with the family. One leg went to Wei Lanxiang, the other to Ji Qiuyue.  

    The chicken breast had no bones and was thick enough to be satisfying with just a chopstick’s worth.  

    Having eaten a meal earlier in the morning with Shen Xuanqing, Lu Gu ate little now. Guaizi pawed at his calf, but the roasted chicken was bought with money - unlike pheasants or wild hares, and with the whole family present, Lu Gu couldn’t openly feed the dog under everyone’s watchful eyes.  

    Fortunately, Wei Lanxiang and Ji Qiuyue tossed the bones to Guaizi after finishing their chicken legs.  

    Ji Qiuyue’s bone still had a bit of meat left. Wei Lanxiang noticed and nearly remarked on the waste of giving it to the dog, but she held her tongue, after all, Ji Qiuyue was now the family’s great benefactress, and it wasn’t her place to criticize.  

    Guaizi had always been skilled at coaxing affection, and Ji Qiuyue was fond enough of him to spare a bite or two of meat without a second thought.  

    Lu Gu kept his head down, eating rice - newly harvested rice, fragrant and delicious. Oblivious to the exchanged glances around him.  

    After the meal, Shen Xuanqing gave Wei Lanxiang five taels of silver, delighting her so much she couldn’t stop smiling, her earlier hesitation at the table long forgotten.  

    “You’ve been running back and forth, go rest.” She said to Shen Xuanqing, then glanced at Lu Gu, who was carrying a basin outside to dump the dishwater. “You too, Guzi. You must be tired from the trip.”  

    Shen Xuanqing smiled. “Understood, Mother.”  

    Wei Lanxiang then cheerfully went to her room to hide the silver. Now older, she still had strength for work but couldn’t match a man’s stamina. Fortunately, both her sons were filial and gave her money. In old age, one had to save for the coffin money, better that than face the end with nothing.  

    Once Lu Gu finished tidying the kitchen and washed his hands, he applied hand cream in the room. He always felt dishwater left his hands slightly greasy, and since the cream was expensive, bought with hard-earned money, he made sure to wash thoroughly with wild soapberries before applying it. Otherwise, it’d be a waste.  

    Seeing Shen Xuanqing lay out the silver on the table - a full forty taels, Lu Gu couldn’t help but smile.  

    “So happy?” Shen Xuanqing’s starlit eyes warmed at the sight. He picked up two five-tael ingots and motioned for Lu Gu, who was applying hand cream, to come over.  

    The weight of the silver in his palm made Lu Gu’s smile widen.  

    “We’ll save the rest. If we ever need to buy more land, we’ll have the money.” Shen Xuanqing packed the remaining thirty taels into a money pouch, which already held eighty taels of untouched savings. They usually spent only loose change, bringing the total to one hundred and ten taels now.  

    Lu Gu knew that pouch contained no copper coins, only whole silver ingots.  

    Shen Xuanqing called it their family’s foundation, rarely touched except when buying land or building the house. Beyond the two of them, no one knew where the pouch was hidden or how much it held.  

    Clutching the silver, Lu Gu’s eyes curved happily. Shen Xuanqing tightened the pouch strings, then looked up to see him still grinning foolishly. Unable to resist, he ruffled Lu Gu’s hair and said, “Just ten taels and you’re this happy? Next time I’ll give you twenty, you can buy whatever you want, no need to scrimp.”

Rebirth of the Useless Young Master’s Counterattack Chapter 10

Chapter 10: The Good Student Stands in Punishment  

The girl burst into tears upon hearing his words and ran off, Mu Lichuan hadn’t even gotten a good look at her face.  

"Dude, that was harsh. You two used to walk together all the time," said the freckled boy - Ou Jingyao, with a teasing grin.  

Mu Lichuan frowned. "We walked together?" His voice was deceptively soft, his lips curving into a faint smile.  

"Lichuan, don’t smile like that. It’s kind of terrifying." Ou Jingyao rubbed his arms, his hair standing on end.  

Mu Lichuan wracked his brain but still couldn’t recall who this boy was. However, from the look in his eyes, he seemed harmless. 

I should’ve done my homework first, he thought regretfully. Now I don’t even recognize my own classmates.  

Ding-ding-ding…

The class bell rang. Mu Lichuan watched as students rushed into the classroom. Gossip about him forgotten in the face of their next class. After all, this was the "Tigress’s" lesson, and no one dared to act out.  

Mu Lichuan remained standing until everyone was seated, then leisurely made his way to an empty desk.  

"Mu Lichuan!" A sharp voice barked.  

Mu Lichuan paused just as a middle-aged woman in a black suit, her hair pulled back severely, stormed in clutching an English textbook, her expression thunderous.  

Though he was a young master of the Mu family, aside from the principal, no one at Chuan High knew his background. To the school, he was simply an exemplary student, and with so many people surnamed Mu around, no one assumed he was from the main family.  

"Yes, teacher?" The boy stood where he was, back straight, exuding an air of aloofness that set him apart from his peers.  

Most of the students avoided looking, especially the girls who had crushes on him. They could tell the Tigress was in a mood, and they prayed he’d make it through unscathed. The boys, however, were mostly gloating. To them, Mu Lichuan was arrogant, always keeping to himself except when surrounded by girls.  

Zhang Qinglian normally wouldn’t punish a model student like him, but seeing his indifferent expression ignited her temper. "Do you not realize class has started? You were strolling to your seat as if you had all the time in the world. What does school discipline mean to you?"  

Mu Lichuan was momentarily speechless. 

Of all the ways to be targeted at school, I didn’t expect it to be by a teacher.

"Discipline isn’t just about words. I entered before you did, if you hadn’t stopped me, I’d already be seated." The unspoken implication: I wasn’t late.  

Zhang Qinglian’s face flushed. Mu Lichuan had always been a well-behaved student, why was he acting differently today? "Late is late. No excuses. Go stand in the hallway, you’re not attending this lesson."  

Without another word, Mu Lichuan shoved his hands in his pockets and strode out.  

Standing in the hallway felt oddly refreshing. Even in his past life, most of his memories were of events after his mother’s death. Everything before that had blurred with time.  

The students of Class 4, Grade 10 were stunned. Their teacher’s favorite student had actually accepted punishment without protest, leaving them with mixed emotions.  

The principal of Chuan High regretted his decision to patrol the halls today, especially when he reached Class 4. 

What am I seeing? The young master of the Mu family standing in punishment?

Cold sweat broke out on his forehead. "Y-Young Master Mu… What’s this about?" After all, most of the school’s funding came from the Mu family. Offending their heir could mean losing it all.