Transmigrated As Cannon Fodder To Marry Chapter 91 Part 2

    Su Qiao handed over the second letter. "This is the one His Majesty went to such lengths to recover, the reason his men chased me from Jiangnan to Shengjing, killing so many along the way. This letter was written by His Majesty himself, bearing his personal seal. All of you have seen His Majesty’s handwriting. Its authenticity is undeniable!"  

    The moment the letter was unfurled, someone exclaimed, "This is His Majesty’s handwriting, identical to his annotations on memorials!"  

    Every minister present had submitted memorials and received the Emperor’s responses. They couldn't be mistaken. And it was impossible for all of them to be wrong.  

    Beyond the handwriting, the letter’s contents were even more shocking - confirming Su Qiao’s account, even exceeding it in brutality. Emperor Changde had used the word "must" twice: Wei Su must die. Wei Yunzhao must die.  

    For an emperor to employ such underhanded means to murder loyal generals who had served the nation with distinction was utterly disgraceful.  

    And impossible to justify.  

    Before arriving, many officials had only heard fragments of the story. But now, their gazes toward Emperor Changde had shifted.  

    Though furious, the Emperor had been closely watching his ministers. Their changed expressions didn't escape him.  

    "Insolent wretch! How dare you spread lies and deceive the court! You think two meaningless letters are enough to frame me? I’ve tolerated you long enough. Now, you’ve gone too far!" The letters never reached Emperor Changde’s hands, lest he tear them up on the spot, something he was fully capable of.  

    "Yu Yi! Seize this wench and execute her outside the hall at once!"  

    By naming Yu Yi directly, Emperor Changde expected immediate compliance.  

    "Your Majesty, there’s no need for haste. If we seek justice, how could we rely on just two letters as evidence? Wait, the witness should be arriving now." Jiang Lin, who had remained silent until now, finally spoke.  

    "In fact, we owe thanks to Your Majesty for this witness’s appearance."  

    Right on cue, a voice announced from outside: "The deposed Empress has arrived—!"  

    Cao Lan’er had been stripped of her title, and Emperor Changde had granted her no other honorific. He referred to her as "Madam Cao," but most simply called her "the deposed Empress."  

    Clearly, this announcement was Yue Heng’s doing.  

    Jiang Lin turned to watch Cao Lan’er enter, shooting Yue Heng an approving glance.  

    The title "deposed Empress" jogged the officials’ memories, she had been condemned for orchestrating Wei Su’s murder.  

    Yet Su Qiao had just claimed the Emperor was behind it.  

    The ministers’ minds raced as they glanced between Emperor Changde and the deposed Empress. Realization dawned: this was a marital dispute turned public.  

    Cao Lan’er wore simple attire, but her regal bearing remained. She ignored Emperor Changde entirely, not even offering a salute. Instead, she addressed him directly:  

    "Your Majesty, did you ever imagine we would meet again in the Hall of Governance?"  

    Her gaze swept over the officials. "Ah, the same ministers who witnessed my demotion are here today. Did you not receive word that today would reveal the Emperor’s true nature?"  

    Cao Lan’er was utterly fearless, her words laced with venom.  

    "Cao! You have no place here! Return to the cold palace at once!"  

    Emperor Changde’s fury burned hotter at her arrogance. He regretted not killing her sooner.  

    "I’ve come... for revenge."  

    The last words were whispered, but Emperor Changde heard them. He stumbled back, tripping over his chair and landing hard on the throne.  

    Just then, someone spoke up: "Your Majesty, we know General Wei Su was murdered, but wasn’t it by your order? Why today-?"  

    Cao Lan’er smirked. "You never imagined the Emperor you serve could be such a hypocrite. Don’t worry, today I’ll lay everything bare. Let you see how blind you’ve been."  

    Instead of explaining immediately, she walked to Wei Yunzhao and extended her hand. "Well? Hand it over."  

    Wei Yunzhao gave her a puzzled look.  

    Cao Lan’er scoffed. "Don’t play dumb. Wei Yunzhao, you’ve long known I poisoned you, that I crippled your legs. I’ve tried to kill you repeatedly, did you gather no evidence?"  

    "I don’t believe that."  

    With those words, it became clear: Cao Lan’er intended to drag the Emperor down with her, leaving herself no escape.  

    Not that Jiang Lin and the others had planned to let her escape anyway.  

    Wei Yunzhao produced two letters and a jade pendant. Cao Lan’er handed the letters to the officials but kept the pendant, twirling it in her fingers.  

    "When the news came back, I was overjoyed."  

    Truly, Cao Lan’er and Emperor Changde were cut from the same cloth. Of Wei Su’s two lieutenants, one was the Emperor’s spy, and the other was Cao Lan’er’s. Both sought the same end: Wei Su and Wei Yunzhao’s deaths.  

    "My man arrived too late, Wei Su was already dead. So he turned his blade on Wei Yunzhao. But the boy was too skilled. Poison was the only way." She glanced at Wei Yunzhao, disdainful. "Yet you still survived. How tenacious."  

    "You wonder why I can testify? This is why. The Emperor and I both sent assassins after the Wei family. I know everything."  

    One letter contained Cao Lan’er’s orders to Wei Su’s lieutenant; the other, his report on the border situation - including who truly killed Wei Su.  

    These letters had been uncovered by Wei Yunzhao’s men. They were irrefutable.  

    Had they not been, Cao Lan’er would never have shown them. Today, she aimed to expose the Emperor, not exonerate herself.  

    But as a key player, her own crimes couldn't be hidden.  

    The officials murmured among themselves.  

    Emperor Changde slammed the table, cursing Cao Lan’er as a venomous schemer bent on revenge, vowing to execute her and slaughter her entire clan.  

    But with the Imperial Guard absent and the officials’ respect eroded, the situation had spiraled beyond his control.  

    His outbursts only made him seem desperate.  

    Cao Lan’er had one final revelation. "Esteemed officials must wonder, why would the great Emperor of Dayue, the wise ruler you all revere, seek the Wei family's annihilation?"  

    "Because... he believed a monk’s prophecy: ‘The Wei family's rise spells Yue family’s fall.’"  

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 151 Part 1

Chapter 151

    The matter of the rabbits was settled. Once Luo Biao negotiated with the brothel, he would go to Qingxi Village to find him.  

    Shen Xuanqing paused, not hiding his hesitation, and then asked, "When I came in just now, I saw all the girls in the brothel holding handkerchiefs. Where do they usually buy them?"  

    This question surprised Luo Biao. Why would he suddenly bring up handkerchiefs? But he still answered, "I’m not too sure, but a couple of days ago, I heard Hongyao mention something about an embroidery workshop sending people to deliver handkerchiefs. She sent a little maid to the steward’s place to pick some out, so they probably come from the embroidery workshop."  

    "Brother Shen, why do you ask?" He couldn’t help but inquire. After all, it was quite unusual for a grown man to suddenly ask about embroidered handkerchiefs.  

    Shen Xuanqing smiled and said, "Guzi does embroidery work. He often comes to town to sell handkerchiefs, fans, and the like. Peddling along the streets is hard work, so I wanted to ask how much the brothel pays for handkerchiefs."  

    The girls and shuang’er in the brothel couldn’t leave, so they had to rely on deliveries. He wanted to ask about the prices, as he had never done business with women or shuang’er before and wasn’t familiar with it.  

    "I thought it was something serious. What’s the big deal…" Luo Biao trailed off mid-sentence.  

    Having been in the brothel for so long, he only realized after speaking that while chickens, ducks, and rabbits for the kitchen were one thing, handkerchiefs were intimate items. Selling them to ordinary people was fine, but selling them directly to the brothel girls would harm Lu Gu’s reputation.  

    He cursed inwardly - how cruel the world was, treating the brothel’s girls and shuang’er as less than human, and regretted his slip of the tongue. Hurriedly, he picked up the teapot to refill Shen Xuanqing’s cup as an apology. "Brother Shen, don’t take it to heart."  

    "It’s fine." Shen Xuanqing smiled, unbothered.  

    Luo Biao thought for a moment and said, "The one delivering the handkerchiefs is probably Zhiyun Embroidery Workshop. I’m a rough man and don’t understand embroidery threads, so I’m not familiar with the workshop. But I’ve heard Hongyao and the others mention that the handkerchiefs aren’t expensive, eight or ten copper coins each when bought in bulk."  

    "Good, I have an idea now." Shen Xuanqing nodded. Lu Gu only sold a handkerchief for three coppers. It was a shame that respectable families couldn’t easily associate with brothels, or else this price would have been quite good.  

    With everything said, he didn’t stay much longer and soon got up to leave. There was still work to do back home - firewood had to be stocked up at both the new house and the old one before winter set in, so the livestock wouldn’t freeze and they could keep warm.  

    Before leaving, he left the four rabbits with Luo Biao so the kitchen staff could inspect them when negotiating the price.  

    After Shen Xuanqing left, Luo Biao returned home, picked up one of the plump rabbits, and entered the brothel through the small back door. Since Shen Xuanqing had entrusted him with this, he had to get it done quickly.  

    Truth be told, the reason he could confidently promise to handle this matter was because his standing in the brothel had changed. He had built connections with the accountant and several stewards, earning their trust. Sometimes, he ran errands for the brothel and did well, gaining some status among the guards and enforcers.  

    And all of this was thanks to the ten taels Shen Xuanqing had given him last year.  

    He knew that money was for greasing palms (bribery), but Shen Xuanqing had trusted him so completely that he didn’t dare slack off. He had done his utmost to investigate the Li family’s affairs. Ten taels was no small sum, if he had relied solely on his meager brothel wages and occasional tips, it would have taken him a year or two to save up that much.  

    It was precisely because of this that he had the means to buy gifts and wine to cultivate relationships, gradually carving out a place for himself.  

    Back then, Shen Xuanqing had given him two steamed buns when his mother was dying. Now, it was again because of Shen Xuanqing’s ten taels that he had managed to rise above the crowd. This debt of gratitude was so great that even if Shen Xuanqing asked him to climb a mountain of blades or brave a sea of fire, he wouldn’t know how to repay it.  

    The reason Shen Xuanqing had felt comfortable giving him ten taels for bribes was that he knew Luo Biao valued loyalty and would handle things properly. Anyone else, and he would never have given so much.  

____

    Weeding was slow work. They had to be careful not to damage the wheat sprouts, so they couldn’t rush.  

    As noon approached, Wei Lanxiang went back to cook, leaving Lu Gu and Shen Yan to continue working in the fields. The two of them weren’t afraid of being alone together, and in broad daylight, with other Qingxi Village folks working nearby - including Third Uncle and Third Aunt, there was nothing to worry about.  

    The sun shone brightly overhead, casting warmth. Lu Gu walked to the edge of the field, picked up the earthen jug, and poured half a bowl of water for himself. After drinking, he called Shen Yan over.  

    Straightening his back, a breeze blew past, bringing a hint of coolness. He gazed at the vast fields stretching into the distance. With so much land and grain at home, even as winter approached, he no longer felt the fear he once had.  

    "It’s empty." Shen Yan finished her half-bowl and tried to pour more, only to find the jug dry. She placed the bowl back on its mouth and stood at the edge of the field to rest.  

    "It’s about time. Let’s go, we’ll drink more when we get back." Seeing how thirsty and hungry she was, Lu Gu picked up the jug and started walking.  

    "Guzi, Yan Yan." Before they could leave, they heard Shen Xuanqing’s voice calling from a distance, coming to fetch them for lunch. Guaizi had come along too.  

    Shen Yan spotted Guaizi’s fluffy tail and gave it a stroke, patting his sturdy body. "Even though he’s always running around hunting in the mountains, he never seems to lose weight."  

    Shen Xuanqing chuckled. Guaizi wasn’t fat, he was just solidly built. Well-fed and with his winter coat thickening, he looked plumper than other dogs.

Rebirth Married The Control group Fulang Chapter 130 Part 2

    The families of Siyang were green with envy. From this moment on, the Zhang family was no longer mere merchants, they had an official in their family, backed by the imperial court.  

    Only then did Zhang Fangyuan host a grand three-day banquet, inviting all the merchants, scholars, and officials of Siyang to celebrate. The revelry was endless, the festivities nearly round-the-clock.  

    After the banquet, Zhang Fangyuan finally found time to gather close friends and family for a proper dinner.  

    Yu Mingda, who hadn't yet left Siyang, finally got to attend this feast.  

    "Zangzhu Prefecture is prosperous. Though it’s not as prestigious as the top three scholars who remain in the capital and enter the Hanlin Academy, your ranking is high. Being assigned to a wealthy prefecture for experience is excellent, your future prospects won’t be worse than those from the Hanlin."  

    Luo Yan, also in high spirits and having drunk plenty, lavished praise on Zhang Ruijin during the meal.  

    Yu Mingda, looking at the handsome new scholar, beamed. "You have a good eye, Luo Yan. If you hadn’t acted early, I’d have betrothed my daughter to him."  

    "You’re still young. The capital might not suit you yet. Once you’ve built a foundation, you can return."  

    Yu Mingda patted Zhang Ruijin’s hand. "Come, drink another cup with us old men."  

    Ruijin raised his cup respectfully.  

    Seeing the genuine fondness the two elders had for Ruijin, Zhang Fangyuan toasted them as well.  

    Yu Mingda, now thoroughly drunk, grabbed Zhang Fangyuan’s hand. "You’ve raised your children well. Very well."  

    "That scoundrel Huang Guan dared to embezzle under my nose using the salt monopoly. I’ve already reported this, it won’t be long before he’s reassigned. He’ll cough up every tael he extorted."  

    Zhang Fangyuan was surprised. He hadn’t expected Yu Mingda to take action. Had the Salt Commissioner been investigating all along, or had someone tipped him off?  

    Regardless, it was good news. Zhang Fangyuan raised another toast. "Your Excellency is truly just!"  

    Yu Mingda laughed heartily.  

    The banquet didn’t end until late.  

    While the Zhang family entertained an endless stream of guests, the Qin family wore themselves out trying to free Qin Zhong - to no avail.  

    "Your Honor, for the sake of our years of friendship, you can’t let Zhong be exiled! Xiangshui (Qin Xiangshui, the magistrate's concubine) only has this one brother."  

    "You still have the nerve to beg me?"  

    Huang Guan, faced with Qin Qi’s desperate pleas, was utterly disgusted. If not for warning the Qin family to prepare early, he wouldn’t have been caught by the Salt Commissioner.  

    It was fine if they’d all been corrupt together, but a subordinate taking more than his superior? No one would tolerate that.  

    Huang Guan spat, "Useless! A complete failure! I pinned my hopes on you two, and this is what happens? How do you expect me to intervene now? I don’t even know who to turn to myself!"  

    "What are you saying?"  

    Suppressing his rage, Huang Guan noted Qin Qi’s clueless expression, as if the man didn’t realize he, too, was a clay idol crossing a river, hardly able to save himself.  

[泥菩萨过河自身难保 (ní púsà guò hé zìshēn nán bǎo): lit. a clay idol crossing a river can hardly save itself; fig. unable to save oneself, let alone others.]

    Narrowing his eyes, Huang Guan suddenly softened his tone. "I know he’s your only son. I’ve watched him grow all these years. But with the Zhang family’s rise, no one can suppress them now."  

    Qin Qi quickly replied, "We’ve no energy left to fight the Zhang family. If only Zhong could be spared, I’d thank the heavens. Please, Your Honor, show mercy."  

    "Very well. For Xiangshui’s sake, I’ll try pulling strings. But greasing palms requires—"  

    Qin Qi understood immediately and presented a brocade box he’d brought. "Your Honor’s trouble is much appreciated!"  

    Huang Guan, pleased with the silver notes and gold nuggets inside, nodded. "Rest assured, I’ll handle this carefully."  

    Believing Huang Guan’s promise would turn the tide, Qin Qi waited anxiously. But even after Yu Mingda left the county, no news came from the magistrate. He hurried to inquire, only to find the office under new management, with no trace of Huang Guan or his family. They had vanished overnight.  

    An old servant who hadn’t left with them, after receiving a tip, revealed, "Master Qin, didn’t you know? Magistrate Huang was demoted by the court. He’s no longer Siyang’s magistrate."  

    Qin Qi was stunned. "Where did he go?"  

    "To some backwater in Lingnan as a deputy magistrate. Left in shame, sneaking out at night."  

    The old servant shook his head. "Probably fled quietly to avoid the merchants he’d crossed. Now that he’s lost power, how could he stay?"  

    Hearing this, Qin Qi realized the truth - Huang Guan had abandoned him. The shock was too much, and he fainted on the spot.  

    "Word is Huang Guan returned all the embezzled salt monopoly bribes to the merchants, except the Qin family’s share, which was confiscated. Huang Guan then swindled half of Qin Qi’s wealth before fleeing. Qin Qi lost both his son and his money, and now he’s bedridden from rage."  

    When the new magistrate took office, his first act was to clear out the prison. On the day Qin Zhong was exiled, Zhang Fangyuan and Xu He went to watch the spectacle, discussing the sordid affair.  

    "The Qin family and Huang Guan were in cahoots for years. This is their just deserts. But one thing puzzles me, how did Yu Mingda uncover Huang Guan’s corruption?"  

    Zhang Fangyuan said, "I only learned later. After the Salt Commissioner met with the merchants, he’d already made his decision. That same day, Huang Guan summoned Qin Zhong for a secret discussion."  

    "Merchants keeping tabs assumed Huang Guan had granted the monopoly to the Qins. Those who’d bribed Huang Guan to lobby the Salt Commissioner were furious, believing he’d deceived them. So they reported his extortion to Yu Mingda."  

    Zhang Fangyuan chuckled. "A twist of fate."  

    Xu He watched the Qin family wail as they bid farewell to the exiled. It was some justice for the people they’d oppressed over the years. As the procession faded into the distance, the clamor of the crowd quieted. The two didn’t follow.  

    Zhang Fangyuan gently pulled Xu He closer, taking his hands. "This matter is settled. After the autumn harvest, we’ll head to the salt fields to stock the shops. It’ll be busy again, so while we still have time, let’s return to the village."  

    Xu He squeezed his hand. "Alright."  

Rebirth to Erase Dark History Chapter 50 Part 1

Chapter 50 

    Yang Jianjun and Yang Jiabo both lived at the farmhouse, though the Yang family’s old house was practically no better than a shack. Yang Jianjun simply locked it up, planning to renovate properly once he had the money. For now, the farmhouse was far more comfortable to live in, but this place was still the home passed down by his parents. Grandma Yang and Grandpa Zhang had always wanted to fix up the house, but Yang Jianjun hadn’t been capable back then. Now that he was able, he would surely turn this place into a warm and cozy home too.  

    After Wei Jing returned, he often wrote letters and called Yang Jiabo. Every time Yang Jiabo went to pay the phone bill, he noticed the charges getting higher and higher. Thinking about Wei Jing’s side, the cost was probably no less, right? Not that he knew how international calls were billed, he just felt a little guilty.  

    “Jiajia, there’s a letter for you.” Yang Jianjun walked in from outside, holding an envelope.  

    Without even looking, Yang Jiabo knew it had to be from Wei Jing. His postage expenses had also risen recently. He had wanted to send Wei Jing something, but there were no courier companies - only the post office, which was not only expensive but also painfully slow. Yang Jiabo now had one more thing to miss - express delivery. So he couldn’t help but complain to Wei Jing about it.  

    Wei Jing joked that Yang Jiabo could just start his own courier company. Yang Jiabo immediately refused, his ambitions were too small for that.  

    In the blink of an eye, four years passed, and it was now 2004. The Yang family’s Wuquan Farmhouse was fully completed and had become well-known in the area. The name was chosen by Yang Jiabo, inspired by the small fleeceflower roots and the mountain spring.  

    The entire farmhouse was surrounded by a flower-covered wall. By May or June, clusters of pink blossoms covered it, creating a stunning sight. The entrance gate was built from bamboo and thatch, natural and unadorned, giving off a rustic charm.  

    Following the bluestone path into the farmhouse, the first thing visitors saw was a long corridor entwined with green vines, stretching all the way to the mountaintop. Walking through it, dappled light filtered down, lending a poetic, dreamlike atmosphere. At the foot of the mountain, the corridor split into two paths. The right led to a lotus pond pavilion, green willows, and bamboo houses, while the left offered arched bridges over a small stream, white walls, and gray tiles. The mountain stream meandered between the houses and the corridor, bringing a refreshing coolness and enhancing the serene landscape.  

    The right side was naturally where the Yang family lived, while the other bamboo houses were not yet open to the public. The largest one was shared by Yang Jiabo and Yang Jianjun, surrounded by its own flower wall. Inside, a large open space was reserved for planting orchids, along with some camellias, roses, and jasmine - added by Yang Jianjun when he found the orchids too monotonous, though not in large quantities.  

    Most of this space, however, was used by Yang Jiabo to grow cordyceps. He no longer sold them to herbal merchants but instead made them into signature dishes for Wuquan Farmhouse - cordyceps stewed chicken, cordyceps stewed duck, and cordyceps-infused liquor.  

    The other bamboo houses were guest rooms, though not yet open for business - mostly reserved for visiting relatives.  

    The left side, with its white walls and gray tiles, housed the dining area. Inside, visitors were greeted by an ornamental rock garden with a fishpond, green bamboo, and flowers. Delicate wooden bridges led to different rooms, each varying in size but all featuring upturned eaves, carved beams, and elegant, antique-style doors. Aside from the kitchen and a tea room for guests, there were only ten private dining rooms, all reservation-only.  

    Now, besides fruit trees, the mountain also had vegetable plots and free-range chickens, ducks, and geese. The farmhouse’s ingredients were mostly self-sufficient. Whether due to being organic or the favorable feng shui, the dishes here tasted far better than outside, especially the fish from the pond, which were exceptionally tender. Yang Jiabo sometimes wondered if the small fleeceflower roots had something to do with it, but then dismissed the thought as overthinking.  

    Behind the house stood a two-story building for staff. The farmhouse required constant upkeep, and Yang Jianjun couldn’t manage alone, so he hired four people - middle-aged couple and two young men from the mountains looking for work.  

    When the farmhouse first opened, it had no customers. Who would come to such a remote place with high prices and a reservation requirement? 

    Yang Jiabo wasn’t in a hurry, he wasn’t short on money. Though he had hired a chef and waitstaff, he didn’t want to overwork himself. Besides, 'fragrant wine fears no deep alley'. From the start, he hadn’t intended the farmhouse to be a mass-market destination - otherwise, why invest so much in creating such a poetic place only to have it overrun? But Yang Jianjun couldn’t sit still, pacing anxiously and losing sleep. No matter how Yang Jiabo reassured him, it didn’t help.  

[酒香不怕巷子深 (jiǔ xiāng bù pà xiàng zǐ shēn): lit. Fragrant wine fears no deep alley; fig. Quality will attract customers regardless of location]

    The farmhouse’s eventual success was largely thanks to Wei Changdong. Yang Jiabo had invited friends and relatives to the opening, including Wei Changdong. Impressed by the pleasant environment and fresh, delicious food, Wei Changdong later chose the farmhouse as a venue for hosting his own guests - many of whom were well-off elites from various industries.  

    These guests became repeat customers and brought in new ones. Slowly, Wuquan Farmhouse’s reputation spread, and business picked up. Some guests arrived early to stroll, play cards, or fish, leaving with purchases of poultry, fish, or vegetables. Some even used the farmhouse as a meeting spot for business talks, the tea room was impressive enough to maintain their image.  

    When the orchard began bearing fruit, Yang Jianjun didn’t even need to find buyers. Yang Jiabo had his second uncle craft beautiful bamboo baskets, and guests happily took them home filled with fruit.

Rebirth of the Useless Young Master’s Counterattack Chapter 13

Chapter 13: Is Young Master Mu Well-Behaved?

Mu Lichuan sat in the back of the car, his entire body trembling. 

Mother had already survived the suicide crisis, why is she in the hospital now? Why...? Could her death truly not be changed?

"I control my fate, not the heavens!" Dark energy seethed within the young man's heart.  

The moment the car stopped, Mu Lichuan flung the door open and sprinted into the hospital, the servant guiding him to the operating room.  

"Father, how did Mother fall from the second floor?" Mu Lichuan knew he was being too emotional, but how could he stay calm when it concerned his mother?  

Mu Changnian understood his eldest son's feelings. Frowning, he said, "We don’t know what happened either. She was standing perfectly fine on the balcony, and then... she just jumped."  

"No... impossible! Mother would never commit suicide!" Mu Lichuan's face twisted in disbelief. His mother had no reason to kill herself, was his father lying? His heart sank, though he showed no outward reaction.  

Seeing his son's expression, Mu Changnian felt a pang of sympathy. "You can review the surveillance footage later. I also thought your mother seemed... off today."  

"Father..." Mu Lichuan was stunned that his father would side with him.  

"Right now, the priority is your mother's safety. The doctors are operating, we must be patient." Mu Changnian hadn’t checked the footage yet. The moment he learned of his wife’s accident, he had rushed over immediately.  

His wife, Zhang Xiao, was from the Zhang family. If anything happened to her, the relationship between the Mu and Zhang families would deteriorate. If possible, he wanted to salvage things.  

They were people of the secular world, different from cultivators. Their world was beyond his understanding, but he still hoped to nurture an outstanding heir, one with spiritual roots, a genius who could solidify the main family's standing and silence the scorn of the branch families.  

Everything had been going so well, why had this happened now? He couldn’t shake the suspicion of foul play.  

"You’re right, Father. We must wait... wait..." Mu Lichuan forced a smile, careful not to let his father sense the darkness within him.  

His first suspicion had been Bai Ping, but she had already been sent away for training. How could she have harmed his mother? More importantly, she was just an ordinary woman.  

Even without seeing the footage, he knew his father wouldn’t lie about this. After all, his mother’s family was not to be trifled with.  

Time crawled by, day turned to night, then dawn. Finally, the operating light flickered off, and Mu Lichuan and his father hurried forward.  

"Mr. Mu, Young Master Mu... we’re sorry. There was nothing we could do. Mrs. Mu landed headfirst, her skull was shattered." The doctor removed his mask, exhaustion etched on his face.  

"No! Impossible!" 

"Mom—!"  

Mu Lichuan shoved past the doctor and burst into the room. When he saw the white sheet covering his mother, his entire body shook. He pulled it back, revealing the surgical scars on her head, her lifeless face, her closed eyes.  

"Mom! Why?!" Mu Lichuan burned with hatred. He had come back, yet he couldn’t save his mother. Why?!  

Mu Changnian watched his son’s grief but said nothing, silently stepping out. His wife’s death was a blow to the Mu family.  

"Tsk tsk... Crying won’t bring her back." A voice suddenly echoed in Mu Lichuan’s mind.  

"Who are you? Ghost or demon? Get out!" Mu Lichuan didn’t know how long he had mourned, how long he had stayed by his mother’s side. His voice was hoarse, his eyes bloodshot.  

"I'm neither human nor ghost. You may call me... Spirit." The voice spoke again. "Your mother’s soul is no longer in her body."  

As if to pique his interest, the spirit continued, though its tone dropped several degrees colder.  

Mu Lichuan's heart raced. He knew of cultivators, he had once been a soul himself. But what was this "spirit"? "Are you a cultivator?"  

"Pfah! Cultivators are just the lowest form of cultivation." The spirit's voice dripped with condescension.  

"Yet right now, you’re weaker than even a cultivator." Mu Lichuan retorted sharply. Despite his maturity, enduring his mother’s loss again was nearly unbearable.  

The spirit fell silent. After a long pause, it said, "Let’s make a deal. Help me find my body, and we’ll go to the Underworld to retrieve your mother’s soul. How about that?"  

"Do I look three years old to you? Once a soul reaches the Underworld, it reincarnates." Mu Lichuan was tempted but knew better than to trust a stranger’s offer blindly.  

"I marked her. Her soul will remain in the Underworld for centuries. Well? Do we have a deal?" The spirit dangled the bait.  

Mu Lichuan’s resolve wavered. "I’m a cultivation cripple, I can’t gather spiritual energy." Damn it, why did I admit that so easily?

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 150 Part 2

    Though they had known each other for a while, Shen Xuanqing had never entered the brothel. Just then, the neighbor, Rong An, stepped out. They were acquainted through Luo Biao and had once shared drinks.  

    Rong An recognized him. "Brother Shen, here for Luo Biao?"  

    Shen Xuanqing nodded. "Exactly."  

    "He probably stayed with Hongyao last night. I’m heading in anyway, I’ll fetch him for you." Rong An was cheerful. Their drinking camaraderie made this small favor nothing.  

    "Many thanks," Shen Xuanqing said.  

    The brothel’s side entrance was just across the way. Rong An went in and soon returned with Luo Biao, who was hastily fastening his belt.  

    Luo Biao wiped his face and grinned. "Brother Shen, didn’t expect you today."  

    He unlocked the door and gestured for Shen Xuanqing to enter first.  

    "On duty today?" Shen Xuanqing asked casually.  

    "Duty’s a nighttime job. Mornings are slow, hardly any troublemakers. Don’t worry." Luo Biao waved it off, inviting him to sit while he went to the kitchen to wash his face.  

    Shen Xuanqing set the bamboo basket down, glancing at the plump rabbits huddled inside. The two he’d sold earlier had both gone for forty-five coppers.  

    When Luo Biao returned, he asked, "Eaten yet, Brother Shen?"  

    Noticing the fat gray rabbits, he praised, "Your hunting skills keep improving, you could catch them alive."  

    Shen Xuanqing smiled. "Actually, I bred these. Caught a few breeding rabbits earlier, and these are their offspring, now grown enough to sell."  

    "Ah, I see." Luo Biao wasn’t embarrassed by his mistaken assumption. He picked up the teapot but found the water was cold and set it down. "I’ll go buy some meat buns. Anything else you’d like?"  

    "I’ve already eaten at home. Don’t trouble yourself," Shen Xuanqing said.  

    Luo Biao nodded and left with the teapot, returning with six large buns and a refilled pot.  

    Though he’d eaten, Shen Xuanqing accepted one bun out of courtesy.  

    After wolfing down a bun and easing his hunger, Luo Biao didn’t wait for questions before sharing what he knew about the Li family.  

    Li Mingshan, with his beautiful wife and concubine, hadn’t visited the brothel in a while. Five or six months ago, Luo Hongchou and Lu Wen had become pregnant one after another, bringing days of celebration to the Li family. The old madam had gone to the temple to give thanks, distributing alms along the way, even beggars received lucky coins.  

    "Say what you will, but that Li boy’s luck is something else," Luo Biao remarked with a sigh. Offspring were important to any family, and at his age, still unmarried, he couldn’t help feeling a twinge of envy.  

    With his wife and concubine both pregnant, Li Mingshan had stayed home for over a month before sneaking back to the brothel four months ago, visiting every few days.  

    The courtesans, having received Luo Biao’s incentives, used all their charms to please Li Mingshan, ensuring his utmost satisfaction. He often spent nights there.  

    Their efforts weren’t solely for Luo Biao’s sake, they had also profited handsomely from Li Mingshan, skimming extra silver for themselves despite the madam’s strict oversight.  

    Once, after three straight days in the brothel, Li Mingshan was dragged home by the Li family’s steward and guards. The scene had been chaotic. Li Mingshan, naked and entwined with a courtesan, had been rudely awakened when the door was kicked in. He had cursed the steward vehemently but was still hauled back.  

    Li Mingshan’s exploits were easy to track, but Lu Wen, as a pregnant shuang'er, had rarely been seen outside since his marriage, likely ashamed of his status. Details about him were harder to come by.  

    Hearing this, Shen Xuanqing guessed a thing or two. Given Lu Wen’s pride, he wouldn’t have stooped to concubinage without coveting wealth. Now, with Li Mingshan carousing in brothels despite his pregnancy, Lu Wen must be miserable.  

    Shen Xuanqing had no ties to Lu Wen anymore. If not for last year’s threats, he wouldn’t have asked Luo Biao to intervene.  

    He wasn’t a saint. Knowing Lu Wen was unhappy gave him a sliver of satisfaction.  

    "Brother Shen, birds of a feather flock together. I just had Hongyao and the others squeeze more money out of Li Mingshan, but after running with his dissolute friends, he’s picked up gambling. Two weeks ago, I saw him at the gambling house."  

    Luo Biao took a sip of tea, grinning. "He doesn’t know me, but I know him. Us nobodies get ordered around, treated like dirt by those young masters. Little do they know, we’ve got their number."  

    "They say whoring, gambling, drinking, and gluttony are life’s four banes, but look at Li Mingshan, he has hit them all. He’ll never amount to anything." Lowering his voice, he added, "I heard Miss Yu’s been seeing doctors lately but won’t say what’s wrong. Even the brothel barely knows. She didn’t win the courtesan ranking before, but she’s just as pretty. Yesterday, her maid asked me about Li Mingshan’s preferences. Poor thing just wants to earn enough to buy her freedom someday, so I helped."  

    Luo Biao chuckled.  

    Li Mingshan, constantly flattered in the brothel, had briefly reformed after marriage, convincing his mother to let him manage family affairs. Now with more money, he spent even more recklessly, what courtesan wouldn’t eye him? Luo Biao had merely given a nudge, the rest was up to Miss Yu.  

    Shen Xuanqing smiled faintly but didn’t dwell on it. Bad habits, once entrenched, were hard to uproot. If unchecked, they’d spiral out of control.  

    But it was too early to say. As long as Lu Wen stayed quiet and didn’t incite Li Mingshan against them, Shen Xuanqing wouldn’t interfere. Everyone had their own fate.  

    "I came today to ask another favor." He raised a hand to stop Luo Biao from refilling his tea.  

    "Just name it, Brother Shen." Luo Biao set the pot down.  

    "The brothel serves food. I’m raising more rabbits, chickens, and ducks now, especially rabbits. If you could help negotiate a deal with them, I’m flexible on price. If they’re not interested, I’ll find another buyer."  

    "Is that all? Consider it done." Luo Biao agreed readily.  

    Shen Xuanqing cupped his hands in thanks, but Luo Biao laughed it off, saying he was being too formal, they were brothers, after all. He even jokingly "penalized" him with another cup of tea.  

  

Rebirth Married The Control group Fulang Chapter 130 Part 1

Chapter 130

    "Young Master, Young Master! Liu Wu sent word that none of the men we sent out to handle the matter have returned. When we went to inquire, we heard that they were all detained by Zhang Fangyuan!"  

    Qin Zhong, who had been waiting for news, crushed the thin porcelain teacup in his hand with a bang. He had already felt a vague unease after not hearing back for so long, but he never expected the plan to fail.  

    He stood up and grabbed the collar of the servant who had delivered the message: "You said Zhang Fangyuan detained them? He’s unharmed?"  

    "Only the coachman was slightly injured. Zhang Fangyuan has been walking in and out of Shencao Hall without a care!"  

    Qin Zhong’s chest tightened with frustration. He couldn’t figure out which part of the plan had gone wrong.  

    "Quick, have the groom prepare the horses. I must see the magistrate immediately."  

    The men he had sent would surely confess under interrogation. He had acted in haste, sending them out in a rush. Had he known this would happen, he would have sent men who would take their secrets to the grave. Zhang Fangyuan was a cunning old fox, this careless mistake had given him leverage.  

    Sooner or later, the evidence and testimonies would be handed over to the authorities. No matter what, he had to ensure the magistrate protected him first.  

    Rushing to the county office, Qin Zhong didn’t dare enter through the main gate and instead knocked on the side door.  

    After a long wait, the side door finally opened. The servant who answered took one look at Qin Zhong’s frantic state and blocked the doorway. "Ah, it’s Young Master Qin."  

    "I have urgent business with His Honor. Please let me in."  

    "The magistrate is occupied with important matters and likely has no time to see you. Perhaps you should come another day."  

    With that, the servant moved to shut the door, but Qin Zhong quickly wedged his foot in. "I must see him today. Please inform him."  

    "Young Master Qin, no matter how urgent your business, His Honor will not receive guests today. Please don’t make things difficult for me."  

    The servant then gave a subtle signal, and several men immediately stepped forward to escort Qin Zhong out. Staring at the firmly shut door, Qin Zhong raised his hand to knock again but hesitated at the last moment.  

    "What is the magistrate playing at?"  

    Unable to see him, Qin Zhong grew even more uneasy. Gritting his teeth, he turned to leave, still racking his brain for a solution when his carriage was suddenly stopped.  

    "What’s going on?!"  

    Furious, Qin Zhong yanked open the curtain - only for his anger to die the moment he saw who stood outside.  

    "We were just on our way to your residence to find you, Young Master Qin. How convenient that you’ve come to us, saves us the trip."  

    Qin Zhong stared at the constable. "What do you mean?"  

    "Young Master Qin, don’t you already know what you’ve done? Zhang Fangyuan just arrived at the county office with witnesses to accuse you of attempted murder." The constable smirked. "Well then, let’s go. We mustn’t delay - after all, the Salt Commissioner is present."  

    Qin Zhong’s heart turned cold.  

    The courtroom was packed. Huang Guan, already embroiled in his own troubles, now had to preside over Qin Zhong’s case, his expression darker than ever.  

    "Defendant Qin Zhong, Zhang Fangyuan accuses you of attempted murder. Do you admit guilt?"  

    Qin Zhong remained silent, only glancing at Huang Guan.  

    Huang Guan knew exactly what Qin Zhong was implying, but he cursed the fool for not recognizing the gravity of the situation, especially with the Salt Commissioner sitting right there. He didn’t dare breathe too loudly, let alone intervene.  

    Slamming the gavel, Huang Guan declared, "The plaintiff has submitted both witnesses and evidence. If you have no defense, then you admit to the crime!"  

    Realizing Huang Guan wouldn’t speak up for him, Qin Zhong hurriedly argued, "Your Honor, why would I risk harming Zhang Fangyuan without cause?"  

    "You had every cause," Yu Mingda, who had remained silent until now, snapped. "The Zhang family won the salt monopoly bid, news that hadn’t yet been made public. You wanted to overturn the outcome. This was no baseless act but one with clear motive."  

    "If the matter wasn’t public, how could I—" Qin Zhong began, only to feel a sharp gaze slice through him.  

    Seeing Huang Guan’s expression, he swallowed his words.  

    "So the Zhang family did secure the salt monopoly?"  

    "How could it be false? Were you deaf to the Salt Commissioner’s words just now?"  

    Merchants observing the trial outside learned of the salt monopoly’s outcome, their disappointment palpable. Yet some wore unnatural expressions.  

    "It seems we wronged both the Qin family and the magistrate."  

    "Not entirely. Since we didn’t win the bid, why did we bribe Huang Guan so heavily? The Salt Commissioner accepted no gifts, but Huang Guan lined his pockets. He’s been extorting merchants for years."  

    The merchants found this reasoning sound and felt slightly better.  

    "Well, what’s done is done. We might as well tidy up and congratulate Zhang Fangyuan."  

    "Quite right. From now on, the merchants of Siyang will likely defer to the Zhang family."  

    The trial was straightforward. With the Salt Commissioner overseeing the proceedings, the magistrate dared not show bias. Zhang Fangyuan presented witnesses and evidence, leaving Qin Zhong no room for defense. The case was swiftly concluded.  

    Yu Mingda deemed the crime particularly egregious and ordered a severe sentence to set an example: imprisonment until the autumn conscription, followed by exile.  

    With the matter settled, the merchants of Siyang grew wary of the Zhang family but also sought to curry favor. They waited for the Zhang family to host a celebration banquet, but even after the Salt Commissioner formally announced the Zhang family’s monopoly rights, no banquet had been held.  

    Whispers spread: Had the Zhang family grown too proud after securing the monopoly, looking down on the other merchants and denying them a chance to celebrate?

    By early June, the sun blazed fiercely.  

    Scholars who had gone to the capital for the imperial exams returned home. A procession of red-silk-adorned horses rode through the city gates, led by Zhang Ruijin, tall and proud atop his steed. Only then did everyone learn that the Zhang family had produced a Liang bang jinshi imperial scholar, who, after the palace examination, had been appointed by the emperor as Tongzhi of Zangzhu Prefecture. 

[两榜进士 (liǎng bǎng jìnshì): a scholar who passed both the provincial and metropolitan exams.] 

[同知 (Tóngzhī): a mid-level official position in imperial China, often a deputy prefect]

    Now returning home to thank his teacher, after that he would assume his post the following year.  

The Rebirth of Crazy ger Chapter 49 Part 1

Chapter 49

Yue ger smiled. 

The news of the leader and Yue ger’s impending marriage quickly spread to every corner of the tribe.  

In Wang Jin’s courtyard, several gers were gathered together weaving cloth when the topic came up. Wang Jin, upon hearing it, looked surprised.  

“Yue ger is marrying the leader?” Wang Jin turned to Mu ger for confirmation.  

Mu ger nodded at him. “The whole tribe knows by now. A Jin, you’re probably the last to find out.”  

The idea of Yue ger marrying the leader was so unbelievable that Wang Jin was too stunned to even react to Mu ger’s teasing. His mouth hung open in shock, making him look rather foolish.  

The sight amused the other gers, and one of them chimed in, “I didn’t believe it at first either, but it’s true.”  

“Who would believe it so easily? After all, during the Matching Festival, Yue ger publicly rejected the leader, and the leader himself swore in front of everyone that he wouldn’t bother Yue ger again. That day, it seemed like their paths had parted for good. Yet, barely a few days later, they’re tangled up again, and now they’re rushing into marriage!”  

“Hey, what do you think? Yue ger humiliated the leader that day… and yet the leader still wants to marry him?”  

“Of course! Have you forgotten how many years the leader has pursued Yue ger?”  

“But even after so many years, being publicly rejected at the Matching Festival and declaring he wouldn’t pursue Yue ger anymore, shouldn’t the leader have given up?”  

The group exchanged glances. Mu ger pressed his lips together and interjected, “Could it be that Yue ger was the one who reached out first?”  

A brief silence followed before one of them shook his head. “Yue ger is far too proud. After publicly rejecting the leader at the festival, why would he eat turned-back grass?”  

[吃回头草 (chī huítóu cǎo): lit. "to eat turned-back grass"; fig. To return to a past relationship or retract a decision.]  

“I’m not so sure. Maybe Yue ger confessed to Brother Heng and was rejected. Realizing he had no chance with Brother Heng, he turned back to the leader. Otherwise, how could the marriage be arranged so quickly?”  

“That makes sense. If the leader had gone back on his word and pursued Yue ger again, Yue ger wouldn’t have agreed to marry him so soon!”  

“Exactly. With Yue ger’s pride, even if he were interested, he’d at least make the leader court him for a few more years before agreeing. This sudden marriage… doesn’t seem like the leader renewed his pursuit. It’s more like Yue ger, seeing no hope with Brother Heng, acted fast to secure the leader before he slipped away too.”  

The others nodded repeatedly, finding the explanation perfectly reasonable.  

“You’re all wrong.” A voice suddenly came from outside the door, and everyone turned to look.  

It was Yu ger, who lived near the leader’s residence.  

Yu ger walked over and sat down with them, casually pouring himself a cup of water before speaking. “Let me tell you, the truth is something none of you would guess.”  

“What? What?” The ger’s curiosity was piqued, and they leaned in closer. Even Wang Jin, though reluctant, edged nearer.  

Yu ger’s face was full of mystery as he lowered his voice. “That day… I saw the leader kneel before Yue ger, as if he’d done something wrong…”  

“!”

The leader kneeling?!  

Wow, what in the world could have happened?  

Did the leader force himself on Yue ger?  

The expressions on everyone's faces turned utterly fascinating. Yu ger confirmed their suspicions with a nod. "Exactly what you're all thinking."  

A collective gasp swept through the group.  

If a beastman forced himself on a ger, even if it was the leader, he’d have to be punished, right...?  

"So... they’re rushing into marriage to cover this up?"  

"The leader’s always been a bit biased, but he’s usually rational. How could he do something like this?"  

"And Yue ger, suffering such treatment, chose to endure the humiliation to protect the leader, even agreeing to marry the very man who once forced himself on him after being rejected... Isn’t that too self-sacrificing?"  

"If I were the leader, I’d cherish him to the bone," Mu ger added.  

The other ger nodded in agreement. "True. The leader already adored Yue ger. Now that Yue ger’s gone this far for him, he’ll probably treasure him like his own heart."  

Yu ger narrowed his eyes, his voice dripping with mischief. "You’re all giving him too much credit!"  

"Ugh! You’re so annoying, just spit it out already!" The ger beside Yu ger smacked his arm. Rubbing his nose, Yu ger dropped the act.  

"That day... I also caught a strong whiff of liquor outside the house..."  

Everyone turned to stare at Wang Jin. Yu ger followed their gaze and confirmed, "Right. It was the wine you brewed, Jin ger."  

"..." Wang Jin’s eyebrow twitched. He spread his hands. "I’m not close to either of them. I never gave them any wine."  

Yu ger waved it off. "Never mind where the wine came from. My point is...when you drink too much, don’t you just get dizzy and pass out? How could anyone... do that kind of thing in such a state?"  

"..." The group blinked at him, baffled.  

Yu ger pressed on. "That day, the leader was clutching his head in pain, but Yue ger showed no sign of a headache. Everyone who overdrinks wakes up with a pounding head."  

"Are you saying Yue ger wasn’t drunk?" someone guessed.  

Yu ger nodded. The other ger followed the logic. "So Yue ger was sober, while the leader was too dizzy to move properly... meaning..."  

Eyes widened as the realization hit.  

Transmigrated As Cannon Fodder To Marry Chapter 91 Part 1

Chapter 91

    Everyone in the hall turned their heads at the sound, only to see the Sixth Prince, dressed in crimson court robes, striding boldly into the hall. In his hand, he led a young woman clad in plain white garments, followed by several hunched figures in coarse hemp clothing, clearly peasants from the countryside.  

    The young woman in plain attire had delicate, charming features. Even without makeup, she was undeniably beautiful. Her expression was calm, unflinching, as she entered the hall hand-in-hand with the Sixth Prince, making onlookers inwardly praise what a perfectly matched pair they made.  

    The peasants behind them, however, were trembling so badly they could barely walk. Their ragged breathing betrayed their terror.  

    Yet despite their fear, they kept their heads bowed and followed the Sixth Prince into the Hall of Governance.  

    The Sixth Prince led them in kneeling and paying respects. "Your son brings Su Yuan, the orphaned daughter of General Su, and the families of soldiers wrongfully slain at the border to pay homage to His Majesty. May the Emperor live ten thousand years in peace and prosperity."  

    The soldiers' families were practically prostrate on the ground, their voices quivering as they stammered out wishes for the Emperor's longevity.  

    Emperor Changde had been seething with rage the moment the Sixth Prince entered with his entourage, but with so many court officials present, he forced himself to suppress it. He shot a glance at Gan Yongfu, who immediately stepped forward. "Your Highness, what is the meaning of this? The palace is a sacred place, how could you bring outsiders in without permission? Your Highness must send them away at once!"  

    Emperor Changde had not granted permission to rise, but Yue Heng stood up on his own and helped Su Qiao up as well.  

    He said, "Today, they are the main players. If they aren’t here, how can the show go on?"  

    Yue Heng then turned to help the soldiers' families who had entered with him. "Don’t be afraid. Today, you’re here to demand justice. For now, you don’t need to speak. Wait outside the hall."  

    Yue Heng had brought men with him, stationed outside, who could look after them.  

    Seeing the Sixth Prince so blatantly disregard Emperor Changde, the court officials exchanged uneasy glances. But none were more displeased than Gan Yongfu and the Emperor himself.  

    "What? Has my sixth son brought rebels into the palace to stage a coup?" Emperor Changde spoke, his face dark, his tone dripping with sarcasm.  

    Yue Heng clasped his hands. "A coup? Your son has never considered such a thing. Today, I merely invite Your Majesty and the esteemed officials to hear a tale from the past."  

    Yue Heng exchanged a glance with Wei Yunzhao, who gave a slight nod. Only then did Yue Heng continue, "Next, Miss Su Qiao, daughter of General Su, will recount this tale for all."  

    Emperor Changde had been restraining himself, his gaze fixed on Su Qiao as if he wanted to tear her to shreds. But Su Qiao showed no fear. Her voice was clear and steady. "This subject, Su Qiao, pays respects to His Majesty and the esteemed officials. Today, I will speak of matters concerning my late father, General Wei Su, the innocent soldiers who died at the border—and His Majesty."  

    "My father was a spy planted by His Majesty beside General Wei Su..."  

    Just this one sentence elicited gasps from the court officials.  

    Emperor Changde could no longer contain himself. "Outrageous! How dare you, insolent wench! If you continue spouting such nonsense, I will have you executed on the spot!"  

    Su Qiao ignored the Emperor’s rebuke and pressed on. "My father was ordered by His Majesty to monitor General Wei Su’s every move, sending secret missives back to Shengjing. Under His Majesty’s instructions, he spread slander against General Wei Su and repeatedly placed him in peril..."  

    Emperor Changde’s face turned from red to white. "Enough! If you utter another word of this madness, I will have your head!"  

    "The final secret missive from His Majesty commanded my father to kill General Wei Su outright, and to eliminate his son, Wei Yunzhao, as well." Indeed, after seeing the actual letter, they learned that Emperor Changde had not only ordered Su Yuan to kill Wei Su but had also planned to murder Wei Yunzhao.  

    "My father had fought alongside General Wei Su for years, regarded by him as a brother. He couldn't bring himself to commit such treachery, so His Majesty’s men silenced him, along with an entire squad of innocent soldiers. The people standing outside are their families."  

    "My father knew there were other spies besides himself in General Wei Su’s ranks, so he took precautions. He left behind secret letters, detailing every order His Majesty had given him over the years, and sent them to Jiangnan."  

    Su Qiao produced two letters, holding them up for the officials to see, revealing scars on her wrist in the process. "Surely, the esteemed officials haven't forgotten the daylight murders in Shengjing a few months ago. Those were His Majesty’s men, sent to retrieve these letters. And before that, His Majesty slaughtered over a hundred members of the Su and Lu families, both to silence them and to recover one of these letters."  

    She handed the thicker letter to the nearest official. Emperor Changde could no longer contain himself. He slammed the table and roared, "Silence! How dare you, insolent wench! Gan Yongfu, seize that damned forged letter and tear it up!"  

    The letter was already being opened. Several officials crowded around to read it, exclaiming in shock at its contents. Gan Yongfu, however, was thrown out by Yue Heng before he could even get close.  

    Emperor Changde trembled with rage, cursing Yue Heng as a traitor plotting rebellion.  

    As the letter passed from hand to hand, the Emperor’s deeds were laid bare before the court.  

    But the letter was written by Su Yuan, his word alone couldn't prove Emperor Changde’s guilt.  

    Moreover, it was not unusual for an emperor to plant spies among his officials, especially generals stationed at the border.  

    Some officials were still puzzled. Hadn’t it already been concluded that Wei Su was killed by the former Empress, now deposed? How was the Emperor involved?

Rebirth to Erase Dark History Chapter 49

Chapter 49

　　Wei Changdong had long received his son's call and taken in all the orchids, arranging for someone to deliver them to the old man. Wei Jing had told his grandfather that Yang Jiabo wanted to gift him orchids and asked for his help in selling them. The old man was overjoyed and kept urging Wei Changdong, turning the esteemed hospital director into a mere errand boy for his father and son.

　　With the orchid matter settled, Yang Jiabo no longer had to worry about funds, so he began thinking about his next move.

　　Before leaving, Wei Jing not only arranged the orchid sale for Yang Jiabo but also found time to speak with Yang Jianjun about Jiajia's issues. The root of Jiajia's mental struggles lay primarily with Li Guizhen and Yang Jianjun.

　　Though Yang Jianjun wanted to be a good father, he hadn't paid enough attention to Yang Jiabo and had been too lenient with Li Guizhen, so he bore responsibility too. Yet it was also because of him that Yang Jiabo kept fighting to live. Wei Jing wasn't a professional psychologist, so he planned to consult an expert later. After their talk, Yang Jianjun grew even more determined to divorce.

　　After her confrontation with Yang Jiabo, Li Guizhen first stormed off to confront her second sister, then went to the fourth sister's home. It was all because of these two loudmouths that Yang Jiabo had learned so much, and might've even told Yang Jianjun.

　　Fury burned in Li Guizhen's heart, she thought to herself, that little bastard Yang Jiabo is nothing but a debt collector. I never should've given birth to him. Yet his words echoed in her ears: How many twenty-year chunks does a person have in their life? Why should I end up with nothing? Yang Jianjun was set on divorce, she had to look out for herself.

　　Li Guizhen agreed to the divorce, but disputes arose over asset division and custody. The court would mediate, if that failed, legal proceedings were inevitable.

　　"Jiajia, your mom agreed to divorce, but there are still issues to mediate..." Yang Jianjun trailed off, unwilling to drag his son to court to face Li Guizhen.

　　"Dad, I'll go with you," Yang Jiabo said, already guessing the situation.

　　"Jiajia—" Yang Jianjun looked at him worriedly.

　　"I need to face her. I need to cut all hope for good, don't I?" Yang Jiabo knew Li Guizhen was greedy and selfish. He wanted to see how far she'd go, and hoped she wouldn't regret it later.

　　"Don't let her provoke you, no matter what she says," Yang Jianjun sighed.

　　At the courthouse, Li Guizhen wasn't alone, her eldest and fourth sisters accompanied her. Yang Jiabo frowned. Hadn't they fallen out? He'd known the fourth aunt was ruthless but had underestimated her.

　　Both parties entered the mediation room and sat across from each other. The court staff outlined the case: both agreed to divorce but disputed asset division and custody.

　　"If Yang Jianjun wants a divorce, fine, but I get the house and custody," Li Guizhen demanded outright. Yang Jiabo watched coldly, waiting to see how far she'd go.

　　"That house was left by my parents, it's not yours. And I'll never give you Jiajia. Have you ever acted like a mother? All you've done is hit and scold him. Are you really so cruel you'd drive him to madness?" Yang Jianjun hadn't expected such audacity.

　　"Who's cruel here? I've been part of your family for decades, and you want me to leave with nothing? Not a chance!" Li Guizhen glared hatefully.

　　"My sister served your family for years, took care of the elderly, raised the child. Now the elders are gone, the child's grown, and you think you can just take everything? She's older now, with no skills, how will she live?" The fourth sister's indignant tone might've swayed outsiders.

　　"How dare you spout such nonsense? Shameless!" Yang Jianjun, never eloquent, gasped in rage.

　　Yang Jiabo finally spoke. "Mom, you said yourself you didn't want me. How will you chase your lover with a 'burden' like me? Was this the fourth aunt's idea? Fight for custody to extort Dad for the house? You must really want it, why else would you team up with her again?"

　　"Jiajia, these are adult matters. Stay out of it," the eldest sister cut in.

　　"Fine, then let's talk about me. She beat me so badly that I required hospitalization, the court can check the records. So drop the custody fight. And I'm grown now,  I won't obey her. Oh, and don't forget, I can't control my temper. If I snap and do something drastic, don't blame me." Yang Jiabo turned to his father. "Dad, if they won't negotiate in good faith, sue her for adultery."

　　The court recorder gaped. The mediator coughed awkwardly. "You've been married so long, and your child is grown. Can't you discuss this calmly?"

　　But his mild tone was ignored. Li Guizhen slammed the table. "Go ahead and sue, you coward! What proof do you have? Don't slander me! Yang Jiabo, no matter what, I'm your mother. Hitting you is my right, what parent doesn't discipline their child?"

　　Yang Jiabo met her gaze icily. "Keep shouting. See if I won't take this to Li Mingyi next."

　　Yang Jianjun squeezed his son's hand. "Jiajia, let me handle this."

　　"Fine." Yang Jiabo fell silent. This wasn't a child's battle. Being a minor is so damn frustrating.

　　"You little bastard! After all I've fed and raised you, you're worse than a dog!" Li Guizhen's face twisted with venom.

　　"Enough! Sit down and speak properly. This is a courthouse, not a market!" The mediator's sharp rebuke silenced the room.

　　The fourth sister tugged Li Guizhen's sleeve, urging her to calm. Yang Jiabo smirked darkly at her. The eldest sister stayed quiet, her eyes apologetic. Yang Jiabo knew her type, she thought kids were always better off with their mothers. Maybe in other families, not theirs.

　　Yang Jianjun spoke firmly. "The divorce is happening. You won't get Jiajia. If you insist, we'll go to trial, your secrets won't stay hidden. Take whatever belongings you want, but the house stays with me. Out of respect for you sending off my parents, I'll have it appraised and give you half its value. That's my final offer. Push me further, and I'll air your dirty laundry in court. Yes, I've been weak, but I'm still a man and a father. Don't test me."

　　After a day of arguing, Li Guizhen, though resentful and guilty accepted Yang Jianjun's terms. But when alimony came up, she balked again. Yang Jianjun, too exhausted to fight, knew she'd never pay anyway.

　　In the end, they divorced through mediation, avoiding a trial. The Yang family home and land were appraised at 60,000 yuan. Embarrassed to ask his son for money, Yang Jianjun turned to his sisters, Yang Qiaohui and Yang Meizhen, for loans.

　　Yang Meizhen berated him and refused. She didn't have the funds, and the house which was originally promised to her too, had been taken from her. That it would now be split with Li Guizhen infuriated her.

　　Yang Qiaohui had spent her savings bailing out Yang Jianguo and was still recovering. She, too, had no money, and resented Li Guizhen deeply. She pitied Yang Jianjun for his weakness but also blamed him for marrying such a woman.

　　When Yang Jiabo learned of his father's struggles, he withdrew 30,000 yuan and handed it over. Yang Jianjun felt utterly useless, he'd failed his parents, failed his son, failed as a husband, and now relied on his child to fix his mess. 

        I'm a failure as a human.

　　"Dad, don't overthink it. Resolving this is what matters now. The farm needs you." Yang Jiabo, ever perceptive, noticed his father's despair.

　　"Jiajia, am I really so worthless? A bad son, a bad father?" Yang Jianjun's smile was uglier than a sob.

　　Yang Jiabo recognized the danger in such thoughts, he'd been there himself. "Dad, you've done your best. You were a good son, you rushed Grandpa to the hospital, sweating buckets. You took care of Grandma day and night when she was bedridden. And for me? You've given everything you could. You've done enough. More than enough."

　　"Jiajia, from now on, let's just live well. I'll try to be a better father."

　　"You already are. And I'll be a good son. Your happiness is all that matters."

　　Yang Jianjun paid Li Guizhen, who moved out, but not before stripping the house bare. She took everything usable, tossed or gave away the rest, even snatching Yang Jianjun's clothes. She might as well have scraped the walls clean.

　　She didn't go far. Nearby, several defunct work units had cheap old apartments. For 28,000 yuan, she bought a furnished two-bedroom and settled in.