The Rebirth of Crazy ger Chapter 49 Part 3

 

A beastman in a frenzy would be impossible for a ger to resist. His expression softened slightly, though a new suspicion arose. "If that’s the case, the leader forced himself on you. You could’ve asked my master to intervene and punish him. Even if you like him now, he should still face consequences, that would’ve protected your reputation."  

Yue ger wiped his tears. "He’s the leader, respected by everyone. If this got out, he’d be devastated."  

"You’re the one who’d suffer! He committed a crime, he deserves punishment!" Xi ger snapped.  

Yue ger frantically shook his head, clutching Xi ger as if afraid he’d confront the leader.  

"He loves me... I can forgive him. Once we’re married, this will all blow over. No one needs to know."  

"..." Xi ger was speechless.  

Just weeks ago, this same person had been heartbroken over Yuan Heng. Now he was sacrificing himself for the very man he’d once rejected...  

He felt something was off.  

Noticing Xi ger’s skepticism, Yue ger hastily added, "I do have... a small selfish motive."  

He continued, "Because of this matter, I'm sure the leader will cherish me even more. He’ll believe I sacrificed for him, his feelings will deepen."  

That... made sense.  

Xi ger mentally conceded. A ger shielding him, especially one he loved, would surely delight the leader. He would dote on Yue ger endlessly, granting his every wish. Marriage would secure Yue ger’s comfort.  

Seeing Xi ger waver, Yue ger pressed further. "Though it was forced... I do care for him. It was half-willing. But..."  

He bit his lip. "I’m an unmarried ger. How could I admit I wanted it? Especially after rejecting him before, it’s too embarrassing! This misunderstanding works in my favor. I’ll make it up to him."  

Lowering his voice, Yue ger added, "I’ve already agreed to marry him to hush this up. Doesn’t that prove my sincerity?"  

Xi ger hesitated.  

Yue ger’s eyes glistened. "Ah Xi, I’ve found happiness. Aren’t you happy for me? Why doubt me?"  

"..." Xi ger’s resolve weakened. Of course he wanted his friend’s happiness. But...  

No matter how flawless Yue ger’s explanations were, unease gnawed at Xi ger. Every detail lined up, yet he felt something was wrong, though he couldn’t pinpoint what.  

After a futile mental struggle, Xi ger shook his head and forced a smile. "If you’re happy, I’m happy for you."  

Straightening Yue ger’s collar, he murmured, "Congratulations on finding your happiness."  

"Mm." Yue ger beamed, his smile sweet and sunlit. But it never reached his cold, dark eyes, still as a stagnant pool hiding untold depths...  

Xi ger shuddered, unable to hold that gaze. He looked away, flustered. "I’ll prepare tonics for you. Your wedding’s soon, I’ll gift you something special."  

With that, he fled.  

Once alone, Yue ger’s face contorted into something ghastly, his aura radiating malice.  

Wedding Day

As Yue ger’s wedding approached, the tribe adorned their homes with scarlet lucky flowers. Unlike Wang Jin’s marriage, the leader’s wedding demanded the involvement of everyone in the tribe, every family hung the flowers by order.  

Even Yuan Heng placed a few stems at his door.  

No one was more thrilled about this union than Wang Jin and Yuan Heng. Wang Jin rejoiced that no one would covet his man anymore. Yuan Heng was glad Wang Jin would finally stop sulking over Yue ger.  

(Though the occasional jealous pout was endearing, prolonged gloom dimmed his bright eyes, and that hurt Yuan Heng more than any blade.)  

On the wedding day, Yue ger wore red cloth studded with colored stones - more stones than Wang Jin’s famed beast-hide gown. The thick, sparkling decorations were almost too much, but Yue ger strutted proudly like a peacock, while the leader limped alongside him, still recovering from injuries to his knees from gathering stones.

The couple toured the tribe, saving Yuan Heng’s remote home for last. Wang Jin, dressed in celebratory red, flung the door open before they even knocked, his grin blinding.  

Yue ger’s nails dug into his palms. 

So overjoyed at my marriage, are you?  

"Joyful union! Congratulations!" Wang Jin chirped.  

"Yue ger's gaze locked onto Yuan Heng, who appeared in matching red, looking more stunning than ever. Wang Jin stepped in front of him, teasing, "Leader, aren't you going to introduce your ger?"

The leader wrapped an arm around Yue ger, smirking at Yuan Heng. "This is my ger now."  

Yue Heng merely pulled Wang Jin closer, silently reaffirming ownership.  

The banquet at the leader's home was a direct challenge to Yuan Heng's previous banquet—endless dishes that kept coming until guests were stuffed. Wang Jin, too excited to care about the food's quality, ate heartily.

Midway, Yue ger and the leader paid homage to the Beast God. Unlike Wang Jin (who’d retreated to rest during his wedding), Yue ger mingled effortlessly, his grace earning whispers of admiration.  

Mu ger leaned toward Wang Jin. "Feels a bit... put on, doesn’t it?"  

Wang Jin nodded.  

After offering brief thanks and promising gifts of meat, Yueger's eyes locked onto Yuan Heng and Wang Jin.

"I acted foolishly before, causing Jin ger and Brother Heng trouble."

His words were gentle and pleasing, carrying a hint of apology, as though he truly meant it. 

The crowd's hearts softened, and the leader even stood up, following Yue ger's lead as he turned to Yuan Heng: "I also owe you an apology. I've misunderstood you all this time."

Yuan Heng stood up at this, and Wang Jin followed suit. 

"We're all part of the same tribe. No need for harsh words," Yuan Heng replied with a smile.

Wang Jin nodded in agreement. "Whether it’s between ger or beastmen, Brother Heng and I are of one mind."  

His playful tone had a sugary sweetness that sparked stifled giggles from the crowd. Some even teased them about their closeness, making both Wang Jin and Yuan Heng blush.

Rebirth of the Useless Young Master’s Counterattack Chapter 19

Chapter 19: The Argumentative Woman  

At this moment, Mo Shanshan’s face was deathly pale, her hair disheveled. Compared to before, she had clearly lost a lot of weight - no doubt due to excessive "activity" with that thing.  

If Mo Shanshan’s mother had bothered to check her daughter’s body or examine her clothes, she might have discovered clues about why she remained unconscious. Yet, it wasn’t until Mu Lichuan arrived that the truth came to light.  

"Mu Lichuan, me? A murderer? You’re not even worth it!" Mo Shanshan’s heart burned with hatred, but she wasn’t foolish. Since her first strike had failed, continuing would only bring her trouble.  

Mu Lichuan glanced at the dagger on the ground, then at the girl restrained in his grip, and asked coolly, "If not murder, then why were you carrying a dagger, Miss Mo? And why attack from behind?" 

Had it not been for his sharp instincts, honed since childhood and tempered by his past life, dodging would have been difficult, he might even have been injured.  

"A dagger? This is clearly a fruit knife! Mu Lichuan, are you going blind at fifteen?" Mo Shanshan sneered, struggling futilely. "If you don’t like me, why won’t you let go?"  

A crowd of students had gathered, eager for drama. They had thought the "school belle" would never pester Mu Lichuan again after her humiliation, yet here they were, acting out a "if I can’t have you, I’ll kill you" scene.  

"Mo Shanshan, I’ll admit you’re sharp-tongued and know how to use your charms." Mu Lichuan suddenly released her. Unprepared, she stumbled to the ground, rubbing her sore wrist.  

Mo Shanshan looked up at him with a smug glint in her eyes, though her face remained pitiful. "Mu Lichuan, you’re just trying to get my attention with these cheap tricks. As they say, a good horse doesn’t return to old grass." 

[好马不吃回头草 (hǎo mǎ bù chī huí tóu cǎo): lit. A good horse doesn't return to old grass; fig. Someone who moves forward doesn't revisit past failures or relationships] 

She painted herself as the victim, conveniently ignoring the "fruit knife" issue.  

"Me? Seeking your attention? Miss Mo, if this can’t be resolved, let’s take it to the police. Since when do students carry fruit knives to school? Unless they have ill intentions. Do you really think everyone here is stupid enough to buy your excuses?" Mu Lichuan smirked.  

He didn’t know what had happened to her at home, but her murderous intent earlier had been unmistakable.  

"Carrying a fruit knife is normal! We eat fruit after lunch, don’t we?" Mo Shanshan retorted. "You’re such a bookworm, you probably don’t even notice these things." Her tone carried a strangely coquettish edge.  

The onlookers were baffled. Mo Shanshan was the "goddess," yet she had been absent for days. Mu Lichuan, meanwhile, was the model student. While their school forbade dating, exceptions were made for top performers.  

"Miss Mo, get up." Mu Lichuan had no interest in bickering. He crouched, pulled a cloth from his pocket, and picked up the knife.  

Mo Shanshan had no idea what he was planning but refused to be a spectacle. She stood. "What now?" A flicker of killing intent in his eyes earlier had unsettled her.  

He humiliated me in front of my family, yet he acts like the victim? 

"To the Mo residence." Mu Lichuan turned away. If the police were useless, her family would handle it.  

He knew what kind of person the Mo patriarch was. Given that he had helped them before, the man wouldn’t ignore this.  

"No! I said no!" Panic flashed across Mo Shanshan’s face. She couldn’t bear more humiliation at home.  

Mu Lichuan paused, his gaze icy. "And what authority do you have to command me, Miss Mo?" 

He emphasized his status as the Mu heir, this matter could escalate or end here, depending on her choice.  

"Not a command… a plea." Mo Shanshan bit her lip. "You know I’m your fiancée." She had no choice but to play her trump card.  

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 153 Part 1

Chapter 153  

    A fat rabbit sold on the street goes for forty-five copper coins. Since the brothel’s kitchen buys in bulk, it’s no surprise they’d haggle for a lower price. The two brothers had assumed it’d be around forty copper coins, never expecting Luo Biao to put in such effort.  

    Shen Yaoqing smiled and said, “Brother Luo, you’ve gone out of your way to raise the price.”  

    Luo Biao chuckled in response. “Eldest Brother Shen, you might not know this, but what kind of place is a brothel? It’s a gold-squandering den. Even at fifty copper coins per rabbit, once the kitchen buys them, a single dish can easily make twenty or thirty copper coins in profit. Not to mention, after skinning the rabbits, the furs can still be used or sold. The dealings inside are so tight, even I can’t get involved, it’s someone else’s business.”  

    “Since it’s Second Brother Shen’s request, how could I not give my all for my own people? I’ll be frank with you, Eldest Brother Shen, the head chef reports the price on the account books as fifty copper coins. We’re actually at a disadvantage here. But this matter must never be spoken of.”  

    “Naturally.” Shen Yaoqing understood perfectly and quickly agreed.  

    Luo Biao then glanced at the chicken coop and said, “Second Brother Shen mentioned before that both chicken and duck eggs could be sold to the brothel. Though eggs are valuable, their price isn’t as high as game like rabbits. They go for thirteen copper coins per catty, unchanged in winter or summer. If Eldest Brother Shen finds this acceptable, I’ll inform the brothel, and from now on, you can deliver the eggs.”  

    This price was a few copper coins lower than the market rate, but it promised steady future business. Besides, thirteen copper coins wasn’t a loss. Without hesitation, Shen Yaoqing nodded. “This price works.” 

    “As for the chickens and ducks, initially I worried that since the hens and ducks lay eggs, you might not sell many. But seeing how many you’ve raised today, the brothel isn’t a tavern or eatery. The high-paying guests mostly drink, so poultry and meat are just side dishes, but they’re still necessary. How about fifteen copper coins per bird?” 

    Luo Biao paused before adding, “I know laying hens and ducks are pricier. On the market, they sell for seventeen or eighteen copper coins, even twenty copper coins. But this is the brothel’s usual buying price. When the time comes, just pick ones that aren’t too fat or too lean to deliver. The plump ones, you can keep for yourselves, eat or sell them elsewhere. Otherwise, it’d be a loss.”  

    Since the chickens and ducks weren’t raised by Shen Yaoqing, he didn’t hide the truth. “The price for chickens and ducks is negotiable, but it depends on whether my mother is willing to sell. Those dozen or so old hens and ducks she keeps are two or three years old, they don’t lay as well as younger ones. If she’s willing to sell, it’s doable. Next spring, we can hatch more chicks and raise them for eggs.”  

    He then asked, “How many chickens and ducks does the brothel need lately? This being our first time doing business with them, I’m not entirely sure. Never mind the grain-fed ones, there are too few. Among this spring’s hatchlings, there should be about seventeen young hens and fifteen young ducks, all ready to lay eggs. The remaining older ones total thirty. If my mother agrees, we could sell them to the brothel.”  

    Luo Biao listened before replying, “No rush, sell however many you can. The brothel’s chef goes to the market every few days to buy. If you can deliver, it’ll save him the trouble. Even three or five at a time, they’ll take them all.”  

    “Then it’s settled. I’ll talk to my mother later. If she’s willing to sell, I’ll take them to the brothel.” Shen Yaoqing agreed with a smile.  

    Luo Biao smiled as well. “We’ll take ten rabbits back today, but the brothel wants them alive for slaughter later. I’ll have to trouble Eldest Brother Shen to help me transport them. It’ll also give you a chance to get familiar with the kitchen staff. If I’m not around when you deliver later, they’ll recognize you, and things will go smoother.”  

    “No problem at all.” Shen Yaoqing readily agreed. Since rabbits were mentioned, he led Luo Biao to the front hutches to take a look.  

    Last time, Shen Xuanqing had sold six rabbits in town. The largest litter still had thirteen, and the two litters born half a month and a month later weren’t small either - forty-two in total. By the start of next month, they’d have been raised for a full six months.  

    Rabbits had this advantage: they bred fast, reaching selling size in just half a year. No matter how many the brothel wanted, they could supply them.  

    Earlier, during the walkaround, Luo Biao hadn’t counted carefully. Now, seeing over a hundred rabbits in the hutches, he couldn’t help but laugh in admiration. “Truly, Eldest Brother Shen and Second Brother Shen have vision. Counting both adults and young ones, there must be more than one hundred, right?”  

    Shen Yaoqing held up two fingers, grinning. “We started with twenty breeding pairs. These bigger ones, some are nearly six months old, others two or three months. Excluding the ones already sold, there are a hundred and ten. Then there’s this batch of one-month-old kits, weaned and separated from their mothers. All from the same month, a hundred and eighteen.”  

    Having built the hutches, tended to daily feeding and cleaning, and kept watch during births, he couldn’t help but feel proud of raising so many.  

    Luo Biao was delighted and impressed, raising a thumb in praise. “Truly extraordinary.”  

    Growing enthusiastic, Shen Yaoqing became more talkative. “It’s also that our hutches and cages aren’t enough, and with the cold weather, we’ve had to separate the bucks and does to stop breeding. Otherwise, the kits might not survive the harsh winter.”  

    “A hundred are plenty to raise. Come spring, you can breed again.” Luo Biao echoed agreeably.  

    “Exactly.” Shen Yaoqing nodded. With no fresh grass to feed them in winter, raising too many wasn’t feasible.

Rebirth Married The Control group Fulang Chapter 132 Part 2

    Zhang Fangyuan’s heart swelled with joy as he studied the ge’er before him. Xu He was half a head shorter, thin and frail, but his taller frame and larger bones made him seem less delicate. Yet, with so little flesh on him, he looked gaunt.  

    Though young, poor children grew up fast. Xu He already helped with family chores, and his skin was tanned from working outdoors. From a distance, he wasn’t particularly striking, but up close, his features were delicate and refined.

    Zhang Fangyuan thought his fulang's bone structure as a child resembled their son Little Ruili - except their son had grown up pampered, fair and beautiful, while Xu He’s childhood had been rough, leaving him dull and overlooked.  

    Xu He felt the gaze burning into him. His back was cold but his face hot, the contrast made him squirm. Was this another prank? He took a step back, pretending not to hear Zhang Fangyuan.  

    The sting of rejection lingered as Zhang Fangyuan rubbed his nose, feeling awkward. It had been years since Xu He had treated him this way, and he wasn’t used to it.  

    "Zhang Fangyuan!"  

    Chen Si ran over: "I thought you weren’t fishing or playing games! Did you change your mind?"  

    Zhang Fangyuan tore his eyes away from Xu He and declared: "The weather’s nice. I’ve decided, if you all want to play Landlord, gather up. Chen Si, count them."  

    Chen Si jumped for joy: "Got it!"  

    Kids loved games, and the more the merrier. The boys swarmed around Zhang Fangyuan: "Me! Me! Pick me!"  

    The shy girls and ge’ers watched eagerly, afraid of being left out.  

    Chen Si tallied the group: "Twelve people."  

    Zhang Fangyuan nodded: "Then I’ll assign roles."  

    Chen Si stared expectantly, mouthing: Steward, steward!  

    "Chen Si will be steward. Donkey will be accountant. Liu Wu and Xiao Xi are guards..." Zhang Fangyuan assigned roles until he reached the two bullies: "Li Erdian and Zhou Xiaohu will be laborers."  

    "Laborers!?"  

    The two boys, hoping for better roles, pouted. But the newly appointed guards snapped: "Dare to talk back to the master? Want a slap?"  

    Li Erdian and Zhou Xiaohu immediately shut up.  

    "Ah-Yuan," Chen Si suggested, "there are so many ge’er and girls this time. Should we pick a wife or fulang?"  

    Zhang Fangyuan’s brow twitched. Chen Si had always been sharp.  

    "Yeah! Without one, it’s no fun. Landlords always have wives and concubines!"  

    "Fine, we’ll pick one."  

    The girls and ge’er perked up, trying to hide their eagerness.  

    Zhang Fangyuan scanned the group, his finger hovering over each head. Xu Shaochun bit her lip, imagining what she would do if chosen - until Zhang Fangyuan pointed at Xu He.  

    "Huh?"  

    The crowd gasped. Xu Shaochun looked up, stunned.  

    "Ah-Yuan, did you point wrong?" Chen Si voiced everyone’s doubt.  

    "No mistake. Him. The rest can be maids."  

    All eyes turned to Xu He. The boys thought Zhang Fangyuan had lost his mind; the girls and ge’ers stomped in envy. Xu He shrank back: "I-I didn’t say I wanted to—"  

    Zhang Fangyuan cut him off: "Let’s start. Chen Si, take two people back to the ‘manor’ to get fishing nets and traps."  

    The boys, thrilled by Zhang Fangyuan’s enthusiasm, forgot their confusion and cheered: "Yes, master!"  

    "Two of you, prepare seating for the master."  

    The chosen boys cut banana leaves to line the ridge. Zhang Fangyuan plopped down and beckoned Xu He: "Sit next to me."  

    Xu He had seen other kids play this game but never joined.  

    Zhang Fangyuan always played the landlord, gathering kids to bring bowls and tools. In the mountains, they hunted; by the river, they fished. His skills ensured they always had food - wild vegetables, fish soup, even roasted pheasant or rabbit. The game was so realistic that participants often ate better than at home, making it wildly popular.  

    Though Xu He had never played, he’d often watched, curious and envious. He’d wondered what role he’d get, probably just gathering firewood.  

    Now, not only was he playing, but he’d been chosen as the master’s fulang. He froze, unsure what to do.  

    Two ge’ers rushed over: "Let us help fulang over."  

    Xu He swallowed hard as the "maids" ushered him to Zhang Fangyuan’s side. He sat stiffly, not daring to look at the boy beside him.  

    Zhang Fangyuan, pleased, announced: "You two did well. You’ll each get a fish later."  

    The ge’ers jumped with joy, curtsying: "Thank you, master and fulang!"  

    With rewards on the line, the kids worked even harder.  

    Zhang Fangyuan, legs crossed like a proper landlord, barked orders: "Li Erdian, Zhou Xiaohu, go wash the fulang's clothes."  

    "Boys washing clothes?"  

    "Talking back!?" The guards handed Zhang Fangyuan a water gun. He drenched the two boys, who fled screaming as the others laughed: "Go or not!?"  

    "Fine, fine! We’re going!"  

    The boys scrambled to wash Xu He’s clothes under the guards’ supervision.  

    "Are you cold?" Zhang Fangyuan asked.  

    Xu He shook his head, but Zhang Fangyuan draped his outer robe over him anyway.  

    Xu He had never been treated like this - having his clothes washed for him, someone shielding him from the cold. Under the others’ gazes, his face burned.  

    Zhang Fangyuan glared at the onlookers: "What are you staring at? Isn’t this how it’s done?"  

    Chen Si returned with tools: "The master and fulang are supposed to be like this! The master’s always right!"  

    The girls and ge’ers grew even more envious, vowing to be chosen next time.  

    Zhang Fangyuan set traps in the deeper water and lured fish with bait. He sent boys to catch crabs and led others to hunt for loaches in the fields. The kids were having a blast.  

    Xu He trailed behind, carrying a basket as Zhang Fangyuan darted through the fields, emerging with fat loaches and eels. Watching the growing haul, Xu He’s eyes sparkled.  

    In an hour, they’d caught over a dozen loaches and eels. The group trotted back to camp, retrieving the traps which were now filled with jumping fish, shrimp, and crabs. The kids cheered Zhang Fangyuan’s skill, eager to cook their spoils.  

    Then, a voice called from the bridge: "Ah-Yuan! Time to go home!"  

    Zhang Fangyuan turned to see his father returning from town, arms laden with goods. His heart warmed: "Coming!"  

    "Ah-Yuan, you’re leaving? We’re not cooking today?"  

    The kids groaned, they hadn’t even gotten to the best part.  

    Zhang Fangyuan said, "Next time."  

    He divided the catch: "Take some home."  

    The kids brightened at the free food.  

    "Steward gets the loaches and eels."  

    "Guards get shrimp."  

    "Maids get small fish and crabs."  

    "Li Erdian, Zhou Xiaohu, one crab each."  

    Everyone got something. Though the portions weren’t equal, free food was free food. They waved as Zhang Fangyuan left, already planning their next game.  

    Xu He stared at his share - two large river fish, nearly three pounds each. Zhang Fangyuan had even left him a basket to carry them. He glanced at the fish, then at Zhang Fangyuan’s retreating back, lips pressed tight.  

    The others sighed enviously: "Xu He, Zhang Fangyuan treats you so well. I hope I get to be the fulang next time!"  

    Xu Shaochun, annoyed by the attention Xu He was getting, brightened at the thought of fish for dinner. She strutted over as if the fish were hers: "He ge’er, let’s go home."  

    Xu He carefully lifted the basket and glanced once more at Zhang Fangyuan’s distant figure: "Mm."

Rebirth of the Useless Young Master’s Counterattack Chapter 18

Chapter 18: Mu Shao’s Mischievous Side

Mo Shanshan’s face darkened completely, tears welling up in her eyes, making her look pitifully fragile.  

"Mu Lichuan, isn’t it a bit too much to treat someone who likes you like this?" One of the boys spoke up, standing up for justice.  

"That’s right, Mu Lichuan, why not give her a chance?" Another chimed in.  

Mu Lichuan’s gaze remained indifferent. "If you like her so much, why don’t you pursue her yourselves? Seems to me she’s just too desperate for male attention, throwing herself at any man within reach." Had he not experienced his past life, even he would have thought his words excessively harsh - after all, Mo Shanshan was the school belle of Chuan High and the goddess in many people’s hearts.  

"Mu Lichuan! You’ll regret this!" Mo Shanshan flung her tears away and ran off, clearly deeply humiliated.  

Mu Lichuan felt nothing. Though he didn’t understand the gray aura he had seen earlier, he figured it must be something sinister. As for warning Mo Shanshan? He wasn’t so idle as to meddle in her affairs.  

With both protagonists gone, the onlookers had no reason to stay and soon dispersed.  

The next day, Mu Lichuan heard that Mo Shanshan had encountered something unclean and remained unconscious. The Mo family, unable to exorcise it themselves, came to invite him.  

"Lichuan, I know my daughter is spoiled, but please, for the sake of our families’ friendship, use your eyes to take a look," Mo Xiangxiong, the Mo family patriarch, pleaded in a somber tone.  

Truthfully, the Mo family’s exorcists were quite skilled, but this time, whether due to some anomaly or faulty talismans, their efforts failed to wake his daughter.  

As the family patriarch, Mo Xiangxiong was well aware of Mu Lichuan’s Yin-Yang Eyes - an invaluable cheat tool for exorcists. It was ironic that the Mo family, despite their expertise in the mystic arts, lacked such a gift, while the Mu family had someone like him.  

The major families of Chuan City all knew that Mu Lichuan, the eldest son of the Mu family, had been born with a "useless" constitution, thus relegated to being the secular heir. Yet after all these years, this "good-for-nothing" young master had awakened Yin-Yang Eyes. Though they seemed newly awakened, given time, this ability would become formidable.  

Mu Lichuan had always considered Mo Xiangxiong a cunning old fox. The fact that he didn’t go to Mu Lichuan’s father or grandfather but came personally showed his sincerity, especially since he invoked their families’ ties. Refusing was out of the question, though whether he could actually "see" anything wasn’t something Mu Lichuan could control.  

When Mu Lichuan arrived at the Mo residence with Mo Xiangxiong, everyone treated him with great respect, their faces devoid of any disdain, which surprised him.  

"Nephew, please…" Mo Xiangxiong lowered his stance, fully aware of how far a prodigy in the mystic arts could rise in the future.  

Mu Lichuan nodded. Seeing the room lined with talismans, he understood that this "thing" must be exceptionally powerful. Otherwise, the Mo family wouldn’t be helpless against it.  

Mo Shanshan lay on the bed, her face deathly pale. Then he saw two ghostly figures crouched between her legs. What exactly they were doing, he couldn’t tell.  

"Uncle, this is… rather awkward to say, but… that thing seems to be… It’d be best to have a woman handle this." Mu Lichuan’s expression was visibly uncomfortable as he spoke.  

His restraint was solely out of respect for the Mo family’s reputation. As for Mo Shanshan herself, she stirred no sympathy in him.  

"This…" Mo Xiangxiong understood the implication instantly, his face twisting in distress. "Please, nephew, keep this confidential."  

Despite the modern era, such matters leaking out would severely damage his daughter’s reputation.  

"Of course, Uncle. I’ll take my leave now. After all, I can only see, not act." Mu Lichuan spoke wearily, though part of his exhaustion was an act for the Mo family’s benefit.  

Noticing the young man’s fatigue and pallor, Mo Xiangxiong quickly said, "Rest first, nephew. I’ll have someone escort you home when you’ve recovered."  

With just the "rear" as a clue, they could deduce what kind of evil spirit this was. If ordinary methods failed, stronger measures would be needed.  

"Thank you, Uncle." Mu Lichuan forced a weak smile. Whatever happened to Mo Shanshan afterward was none of his concern. 

____ 

Mu Lichuan’s life remained peaceful. Aside from studying cultivation knowledge, nothing much changed. As for Mu Xiaolin, aside from constantly calling him "big brother," nothing unusual occurred.  

"Mu Lichuan, I’ll kill you!" A shrill voice suddenly shrieked, followed by the thrust of a dagger.  

Trained since childhood, Mu Lichuan easily deflected such an attack. With a sharp clang, the dagger was knocked aside. "Miss Mo, attempting murder in broad daylight?"  

Rebirth to Erase Dark History Chapter 51 Part 1

Chapter 51: Retirement Life  

"Who's here?" Yang Jiabo stepped outside and saw a black car parked on the stone-paved path in front of the bamboo house.  

Wei Jing stood at the back of the car, opening the trunk, which was stuffed full of things - food, daily necessities, and even a large suitcase. Wei Jing had cut his hair into a neat, short style and was dressed simply in a white shirt and black dress pants. The sleeves of his shirt were rolled up, revealing sturdy arms that looked strong. Standing at around 183 cm, Wei Jing had the natural build of a model, even simple clothes looked effortlessly stylish and sharp on him.  

Yang Jiabo felt a twinge of envy. No matter how hard he tried, his height had stubbornly stopped at 178 cm.  

"Morning, Jiajia." Hearing his voice, Wei Jing turned around with a smile. His voice was pleasant, Yang Jiabo thought to himself. This must be what people mean by 'voice kink' perks.  

"Are you moving in or fleeing some disaster?"  

"Most of this is gifts for you. If you don’t want them, I can take them back," Wei Jing said with a laugh.  

"Of course I want them! I was just telling my dad you were coming, and here you are." Yang Jiabo stepped forward to help.  

"Brother Jing, did you bring anything for me?" Yang Qing asked.  

"You’re a grown man now, what do you need gifts for?" Yang Jiabo shot him a look.  

"Brother Jiajia, you’re older than me!" Yang Qing retorted.  

"Ever heard the saying, the magistrates are free to burn down houses, but the common people aren’t allowed to light lamps?" Yang Jiabo smirked.  

[只许州官放火，不许百姓点灯 (zhǐ xǔ zhōu guān fàng huǒ, bù xǔ bǎi xìng diǎn dēng): lit. The magistrates are free to burn down houses, but the common people aren’t allowed to light lamps; fig. One rule for the powerful, another for the rest]  

"You hypocritical dog." Yang Qing had even picked up this phrase from Yang Jiabo.  

"You two are six of one and half a catty of the other, both acting like kids," Wei Jing said, handing Yang Qing a box. "A language repeater for you, to help with your foreign language studies."  

[六两对半斤 (liù liǎng duì bàn jīn): lit. Six taels vs. half a catty of the other; fig. no real difference]

"Thanks." Yang Qing deflated a little. If he could choose, he’d have preferred something else.  

Yang Jiabo grinned. "Perfect for you. Keep it up, kid!"  

"Different fates for different folks. Ah, life’s unfair." Yang Qing sighed dramatically before hoisting the largest suitcase. "Where should I put this?"  

Wei Jing: "In Jiajia’s room."  

Yang Jiabo: "Isn’t that your luggage?"  

Wei Jing nodded matter-of-factly. "Yeah."  

"You have your own room, don’t you?" Yang Jiabo was puzzled. Why did they have to squeeze together?  

Wei Jing: "We haven’t seen each other in ages. We’ll talk deep into the night by candlelight."  

Yang Qing looked between them. "So, have you two decided? Where’s it going?"  

Wei Jing: "Jiajia’s room."  

Yang Jiabo: "Put it in his room."  

Yang Qing rolled his eyes and lugged the suitcase, huffing and puffing, straight to Yang Jiabo’s room. Yang Jiabo stared in disbelief, this little opportunist.  

"Fine, whatever. How long are you staying this time?" Yang Jiabo finally gave in.  

"About a week. There’s still a lot to handle back in Beijing."  

"Oh, how’s Wei Feng been? Haven’t heard from him in a while."  

"I heard he’s in some training program, no contact with the outside world for a long time. He keeps saying he wants to stay at your farmhouse for a bit, but he’s never free. You wouldn’t recognize him now, he is as tanned as charcoal. If he fell into a coal pit, you’d never find him."  

"Same as Yang Qing. That guy turns unbearably dark the second he steps into the sun. Tell Wei Feng to come whenever he’s on break, food and lodging are on me." Yang Jiabo was feeling generous.  

"By the way, where are all the guests?" Wei Jing asked.  

"It’s still early. They’ll start trickling in soon."  

"Jiajia, I want your braised carp, poached spicy pork slices, and stewed chicken soup." Wei Jing was a carnivore - meat lover, veggie hater.  

"Sure, I’ll make them for you later."  

As they chatted, they carried the items inside like ants moving house. Most of Wei Jing’s gifts were sweets such as toffees, assorted chocolates, cookies - so sweet it was almost nauseating to look at, but Yang Jiabo was thrilled.  

"Brother Jiajia, how are your teeth holding up?" Yang Qing asked before turning to Wei Jing. "Aren’t you worried he’ll get diabetes?"  

"Scram! Don’t jinx it. This is my one and only hobby, no one’s taking it away from me." Yang Jiabo shooed him away like a fly.  

"Fine, you two chat. I’ll take Dahei and Xiaohei on patrol." Yang Qing hummed as he left. "The Great King ordered me to patrol the mountains, so I’ll wander the human world…"

[A humorous folk song about a minor deity patrolling the mountains, popularized by a 2016 comedy film]

Yang Jiabo hadn’t expected the song he’d absentmindedly hummed to stick with Yang Qing. Thankfully, he hadn’t picked up much, and it hadn’t spread.  

Yang Jiabo: "That’s everything. I’ll go prep lunch. You organize your stuff."  

Wei Jing: "I’ll come with you."  

"Alright, let’s go catch a fish first."  

At the lotus pond, Yang Jiabo handed Wei Jing a net that looked like something between a butterfly net and a fishing tool. "Your turn. Pick whichever fish you want and scoop it up."  

"Will this even work?" Wei Jing eyed the makeshift net skeptically - sturdy bamboo pole with a circular metal ring attached to a funnel-shaped net.  

"Of course." Yang Jiabo nodded, then settled in to watch the show.  

It was peak lotus season, the pond was filled with pink and white blooms. Two small wooden boats rested by the shore, ready to drift through the gaps between the lotus leaves. Romantic visitors often reenacted scenes from dramas, paddling out to nap among the greenery.  

Yang Jiabo had secretly tried it himself when no one was around. The cool water, the gentle rocking - it was soothing and poetic. If only there weren’t so many mosquitoes.  

But today, they skipped the boats and walked along the shore to a shallow spot. Plump fish darted through the water. Wei Jing studied them, then the net, before making his move.  

He targeted a carp weighing about two pounds, carefully positioning the net before swiftly scooping. Only for the fish to flick its tail, twist, and escape.  

Transmigrated As Cannon Fodder To Marry Chapter 93 Part 1

Chapter 93

    The imperial physician arrived quickly and diagnosed the emperor as suffering from rage-induced heart distress, compounded by previous events that had damaged his health. He advised complete rest.  

    Gan Yongfu seized the opportunity to suggest that Emperor Changde return to his chambers to recuperate and dismiss the ministers for the day.  

    As long as the emperor lives, there would always be another chance to settle accounts after autumn.

[秋後算賬 (qiū hòu suàn zhàng): lit. Settle accounts after autumn; fig. Retribution or reckoning at a later time] 

    Truth be told, the emperor’s rash decision to order the arrest of the Wei family immediately after regaining consciousness had been reckless. He should have first sent spies to confirm the situation and struck when the entire Wei family was gathered at home, catching them off guard to ensure none escaped execution.  

    Gan Yongfu had followed Emperor Changde’s orders multiple times to deal with the Wei family, yet each attempt had failed. This had given him a firsthand look at the cunning methods of Wei Yunzhao and Jiang Lin, these two were not men to be trifled with.  

    But what Gan Yongfu didn’t know was that even the timing of Emperor Changde’s lucid moments was under the control of Jiang Lin and his allies. There was no way they would allow the emperor an opportunity to capture anyone.  

    As long as Emperor Changde couldn’t use the Wei family as hostages, Jiang Lin and Wei Yunzhao could protect themselves without issue. This was precisely why they had been able to enter the palace and stage this entire spectacle.  

    Though Emperor Changde had spat blood, he was merely weakened in appearance, his mind remained sharp. Like Gan Yongfu, he believed that "as long as the green hills remain, there will always be firewood to burn. " As long as he lived and remained emperor, he could turn the tables and annihilate the Wei family, the Sixth Prince’s faction, and even the families of these very ministers in one fell swoop.  

[留得青山在，不怕沒柴燒 (liú dé qīng shān zài, bù pà méi chái shāo): lit. As long as the green hills remain, there will be no shortage of firewood to burn; fig. Where there’s life, there’s hope]   

    So when Gan Yongfu suggested he retire to rest, Emperor Changde played along - coughing, feigning distress, and even lashing out at the ministers to leave, as if he were on the verge of collapse.  

    Gan Yongfu immediately summoned a group of eunuchs to carry the emperor back to his chambers.  

    The ministers, assuming the matter settled and seeing no reason to stay, were about to take their leave when they heard a loud noise behind them. The Sixth Prince had ordered the doors of the Hall of  the Governance sealed shut.  

    In the past, Emperor Changde might not have thought much of it, but today, he had gained a deeper understanding of his sixth son. This was a reckless troublemaker, utterly bewitched by Wei Yunzhao and his wife, capable even of patricide.  

    Now, seeing the hall doors shut, Emperor Changde grew frantic. Struggling to sit up, he demanded, "Lao Liu (sixth), what is the meaning of this? Do you truly intend to rebel?"  

    "Father’s voice sounds quite strong, hardly like someone in need of rest. In that case, why not stay and hear what your son has to say before leaving?" The sixth prince, Yue Heng's tone was casual, but the sealed doors made it clear: whether they wanted to or not, everyone present would listen.  

    A sense of foreboding gripped Emperor Changde. "You traitor! How dare you- cough!"  

    Yue Heng smirked. "When it comes to audacity, no one in this world surpasses you, Father. Or our former empress."  

    He shoved Cao Lan’er forward. "Now, let’s discuss my business. I ask all present to bear witness and seek justice for my birth mother, who died many years ago."  

    While the ministers had some knowledge of the Wei family’s affairs, the Sixth Prince’s mention of a long-deceased mother left them utterly bewildered.  

    One official spoke up, "Your Highness, were you not born to the deposed empress? As the legitimate heir, how could you have another ‘mother’?"  

    No concubine had the right to be called "mother" by the empress’s son.  

    "Because I'm not the deposed empress’s—"  

    "Yue Heng!" Cao Lan’er suddenly cut him off.  

    Her face darkened, her eyes filled with threat. "I advise you to hold your tongue. If I fall, you won’t escape unscathed."  

    Yue Heng chuckled. "Deposed Empress, are you truly so blind? After what you did to the Wei family, do you really think you’ll walk away unharmed?"  

    Of course not. Worse still, once the truth came out, she would lose her leverage over Emperor Changde, he could kill her at any time.  

    But in Cao Lan’er’s eyes, the consequences of killing officials paled in comparison to what Yue Heng was about to reveal. If it were just the former, she could threaten him to save herself. But with the latter added, Emperor Changde would likely want her dead on the spot.  

    As she pondered, Yue Heng added, "And how do you know my dear father wasn’t aware of your crimes back then?"  

    Cao Lan’er’s head snapped up, shock flashing in her eyes, but she soon laughed. "If you believe he knew, why bother exposing it? Do you think justice will bring that whore back to life?"  

    Her words struck a nerve. Yue Heng seized her throat. "Then I’ll send you to apologize to her in hell!"  

    "Would you dare? Unless you wish to die with me," Cao Lan’er taunted, meeting his murderous gaze without fear.  

    "Yue Heng, I’m not so foolish. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have come today as a witness. I intend to keep the crown prince alive, ensure my own survival, and torment you for the rest of your life." Her demeanor was a far cry from her earlier panic.  

    Yue Heng remained unfazed. "Deposed Empress, your tricks are predictable. Do you really think I fell for them?"  

    His casual tone left Cao Lan’er momentarily stunned, unsure whether to believe him.  

    Releasing her, he said softly, "If you want to live, don’t interfere. Otherwise, I might do something even I can’t control, and the consequences will be messy."  

    The ministers watched the exchange silently. Some wanted to protest the impropriety but were held back by their peers. It was clear the Sixth Prince held the reins in the Hall of Governance. With the doors sealed, whatever he wanted would inevitably come to pass.  

    Moreover, with the emperor’s other sons dead or poisoned, the sixth prince was now the likeliest successor, aking it unwise to offend him now.  

Rebirth of the Useless Young Master’s Counterattack Chapter 17

Chapter 17: Teasing Miss Mo

Although his mother had "passed away," the fact that he could still retrieve her soul gave him hope. As long as he became powerful enough, overturning mountains and emptying seas would be no problem at all.  

[翻山倒海 (fān shān dǎo hǎi): lit. overturn mountains and empty seas; fig. accomplish something immensely difficult or earth-shaking.]  

"Brother..." When Mu Xiaolin heard about the death of the Mu family’s matriarch, he was secretly thrilled. This meant his own mother could now become the new matriarch of the Mu family. As for that so-called "eldest brother," he could just step aside.  

Mu Xiaolin wore a face full of "grief." He knew that sometimes, one had to play the part convincingly

 Otherwise, people might grow suspicious.  

"Please accept my condolences. I believe Auntie’s spirit in heaven wouldn’t want you to grieve like this," Mu Xiaolin comforted him, his voice soft and slightly hoarse, clearly from crying.  

"Thank you for your concern," Mu Lichuan replied before falling silent, obviously unwilling to engage further.  

Mu Xiaolin offered a few more words of comfort, but seeing that he still refused to speak, he had no choice but to leave. Though resentment burned in his heart, there was nothing he could do about it at the moment. Thus, he missed the mocking look Mu Lichuan gave his retreating figure.  

In his past life, his grandfather had rarely involved himself in worldly affairs. Now, it seemed he valued upholding tradition. Moreover, after the earth-shattering changes in Mu Lichuan himself, both his great-grandfather and grandfather held high expectations for him. No matter the situation, "strength" was what commanded respect.  

The funeral of the Mu family’s matriarch was far more lavish than expected. The Zhang family members wore grim expressions, but when they saw Mu Lichuan, the family head’s expression softened considerably. "Lichuan, for your mother’s sake, you mustn’t drown in sorrow."  

If Mu Lichuan wallowed in grief, it would only give certain people an opportunity to strike.  

"Grandfather, I understand," Mu Lichuan said firmly, his deep eyes filled with determination.  

Zhang Hanyu, the Zhang family head, was momentarily taken aback, not expecting his grandson to be so resilient. A look of approval crossed his face. "Good, as long as you think that way."  

On the surface, the death of the Mu family’s matriarch caused no major upheaval. The media reported on it, but out of fear of the Mu family’s influence, they dared not speculate recklessly about why she had taken her own life. As for the behind-the-scenes negotiations, Mu Lichuan was unaware. However, the Mu and Zhang families hadn't completely severed ties.  

Life seemed to return to its normal course. Gradually, everyone moved on from their grief - even Mu Changnian. Mu Lichuan couldn’t help but sigh at his father’s cold-heartedness. But then again, if his father had truly loved his mother, would an illegitimate child like Mu Xiaolin even exist?  

"Eldest Brother, Eldest Brother... Don’t walk so fast!" Mu Xiaolin called after him.  

Mu Lichuan didn’t stop. He had a rough idea of what Mu Xiaolin was up to. Half a year had passed, which meant his father would soon remarry, and Bai Ping was the most likely candidate.  

Mu Xiaolin watched as Mu Lichuan disappeared from sight, his eyes burning with hatred. 

Once my mother becomes the Mu family’s matriarch, let’s see if this bastard can still act so arrogantly!  

So much time had passed, yet he still hadn’t been allowed to undergo the Mu family’s assessment. Something must have gone wrong, he had clearly been deliberately delayed. Even many of the Mu family’s business affairs had been dumped on him. There was no way this wasn’t a setup.  

"Lichuan! Lichuan! Mu Lichuan! Stop right there, you—!" The young lady’s beautiful face twisted in fury as the boy completely ignored her.  

Mu Lichuan halted. "What do you want?" His tone was calm and indifferent. Even though he knew this girl was his fiancée, recalling their past life made him feel like vomiting.  

"You- Mu Lichuan, you’re too much!" Mo Shanshan was so angry she could kill someone. If not for her grandfather’s orders to get close to Mu Lichuan, she would never chase after an ice block like him.  

She prided herself on her looks, many boys pursued her. But as the Mo family’s legitimate daughter, she knew her duty was to contribute to the family, and the best way was through marriage.  

Mu Lichuan’s expression didn’t change. "Miss Mo, as a young lady, it’s better to be more reserved."  

By now, a crowd of students had gathered around them, watching the spectacle. Everyone knew Mo Shanshan was the school belle of Chuan High, who had even publicly declared she would win over Mu Lichuan. While "a man chasing a woman is like climbing a mountain, a woman chasing a man is like peeling a thin veil," everyone thought it would be easy. Yet, after nearly half a year of pursuit, the guy remained as cold as a corpse.  

[男追女隔重山，女追男隔层纱 (nán zhuī nǚ gé chóng shān, nǚ zhuī nán gé chóng shā): lit. a man chasing a woman is separated by mountains, a woman chasing a man is like peeling a thin veil; fig. it’s harder for men to pursue women than vice versa.]  

"Mu Lichuan, don’t go too far! If not for... if not for... do you think I’d even care about you?" Mo Shanshan’s face flushed red with anger. Her grandfather had said Mu Lichuan was extraordinary, marrying him would bring great benefits to the Mo family. But as for how he was extraordinary, her family refused to explain.  

Mu Lichuan narrowed his eyes slightly, observing the dark aura hovering over the girl’s forehead. "Since Miss Mo doesn’t care for me, why chase after me, then?"

Rebirth Married The Control group Fulang Chapter 132 Part 1

Chapter 132 Extra Zhang Fangyuan 

    "Ah-Yuan, why aren’t you up yet? Sleeping outside like this, you’ll catch a chill."  

    A somewhat familiar yet distant voice reached Zhang Fangyuan’s ears. His fingers twitched. He wanted to open his eyes, but his eyelids felt sticky, and it took him a while before he managed to pry them open.  

    Before him was a fence courtyard made of withered trees. Zhang Fangyuan rubbed his eyes, thinking he was dreaming. But even after rubbing them until they ached, the scenery around him remained unchanged.  

    "What’s wrong? Got sand in your eyes?"  

    The voice was now so close it seemed right in front of his forehead. He tilted his head slightly and suddenly stared in shock: "Mom!?"  

    The woman in front of him, wearing a gray apron, smiled gently and adjusted the basin in her arms: "Silly child, acting like I startled you. If you’re tired, go sleep inside for a while. It’s still early, I’m heading to the river to wash your father’s clothes."  

    "Your father went to town today. Before he left this morning, he said he’d buy two pounds of pork. I’ll cook it for you tonight."  

    Zhang Fangyuan stared blankly at the woman’s gentle smile before nodding dumbly.  

    "Then I’ll be off."  

    By the time the woman had left the courtyard and disappeared into the distance, Zhang Fangyuan finally snapped back to reality. He leapt up from the wide bench made of two long stools: "He ge’er! He ge’er!"  

    He called out several times, but aside from the old earthen house with its black-tiled roof and a few chickens and ducks clucking in the corner of the yard, no one answered.  

    Zhang Fangyuan ducked into the kitchen, instinctively lowering his head to enter - only to realize he didn’t need to. He found himself at least two heads shorter than before, with smaller hands and feet. Startled, he rushed back out and saw his reflection in the water vat in the yard. His eyes widened like copper bells.  

    He pinched his cheeks - soft and round. He had somehow reverted to his ten-year-old self, back when his parents were still alive.  

    The sight filled him with both excitement and melancholy.  

    He was overjoyed to see his parents again, but his heart ached at the thought of his wife being gone.  

    After twisting and turning in front of the vat like a worm for a while. He glanced around, seeing that spring was in full bloom. Instead of leaving through the gate, he vaulted over the fence in one leap.  

    "Zhang Fangyuan!" A boy about his age came running over - Chen Si, grinning eagerly: "Wanna go hunt pheasants in the mountains? It’s spring, the wild animals are all out foraging, fat and big!"  

    "No."  

    Zhang Fangyuan walked ahead alone, but Chen Si didn’t give up, trailing behind him and pestering: "Then how about fishing? The water’s risen, there’s gotta be plenty of fish and shrimp!"  

    "No."  

    "Come on, come on," Chen Si begged. "Xu Shaochun’s at the river washing clothes today. It’s lively over there, there are lots of people. If we go fishing, we might even see her."  

    Zhang Fangyuan said, "Why would I care about seeing her?"  

    Then, as if realizing something, he stopped: "You said there are a lot of people there? Who?"  

    Seeing Zhang Fangyuan’s sudden interest, Chen Si quickly listed names: "The Wang family’s ge’er, the Zhao family’s little girl..."  

    Zhang Fangyuan listened as Chen Si rambled on, but he didn’t hear the name he wanted. His interest waned again, but Chen Si’s eyes sparkled: "There are so many girls and ge’er! With so many people, we can play the Landlord game again. You can be the landlord, and this time, let me be the steward, okay?"  

    Zhang Fangyuan had no interest in childish games, but since Xu Shaochun was by the river, he thought he might as well go and see if he could catch a glimpse of Xu He.  

    The thought of Xu He as a child made him inexplicably excited.  

    "Fine, let’s go take a look."  

    Chen Si cheered and dragged Zhang Fangyuan toward the riverbank at a run.  

    Spring in the countryside was a riot of blooming flowers, and the season of planting and harvesting was always the liveliest.  

    The weather was warm, and by the river, aside from a group of women washing clothes, there were children who had taken off their shoes and socks to splash in the water or catch fish. To avoid scolding from the adults, they played in hidden spots among the bamboo groves, keeping their distance from the washers.  

    When the boys saw Zhang Fangyuan and Chen Si approaching, they scrambled out of the water like they’d found their leader, calling out Zhang Fangyuan’s name eagerly.  

    "What are we playing today? Are we catching fish?"  

    Zhang Fangyuan scanned the area but didn’t see Xu He. Disappointed, he replied flatly: "We didn’t bring baskets or traps. How are we supposed to catch fish?"  

    "Then let’s play the Landlord game! There are so many of us today!"  

    Zhang Fangyuan ignored them and turned to leave, but as he stepped onto the field ridge, he spotted another group of children further upstream - mostly girls and ge’er, also washing clothes.  

    He craned his neck and took a few steps closer.  

    "Shaochun, your pearl hairpin is so pretty! Can I try it on?"  

    "I have plenty of these. You can wear it for a bit if you want."  

    "Your hands are so soft and white, do you use hand cream?"  

    The girls and ge’er chatted and giggled in low voices, the atmosphere harmonious, except for one ge’er in coarse gray clothes, head bowed, silently scrubbing clothes in his basin. He stood out awkwardly among the lively group.  

    Even from the back of his head, Zhang Fangyuan’s heart pounded. He recognized the person he’d spent decades with at a glance.  

    He almost called out, but just then, two boys dashed past, trying to get the girls’ attention. They waved bamboo water guns, splashing water - too shy to aim at the girls they liked, too scared to pick on the fierce ones. After some hesitation, they settled on the quiet, unnoticed Xu He.  

    Two streams of cold river water arced through the air, landing squarely on Xu He’s head and the back of his neck. Though spring was warm, ge’er and girls weren’t as tough as boys who played in the water all day. They only came to wash clothes when the weather was nice.  

    The sudden cold water made Xu He jolt. He jumped up in alarm, then relaxed slightly when he realized it was just water. He quickly wiped the droplets from his head and neck.  

    The others burst into laughter at the sight of Xu He flailing like a startled monkey. The culprits - Li Erdian and Zhou Xiaohu, pointed and jeered: "Look at Xu He! What a dumb oaf!"  

    The girls and ge’er nearby giggled too, though they feigned mild scolding: "Li Erdian, Zhou Xiaohu, you two are so mean!"  

    The commotion drew the two groups together, and soon they were all chatting and laughing - except for Xu He, who was left alone, quietly wringing out his damp clothes.  

    Zhang Fangyuan strode over: "Are you okay?"  

    Xu He was used to being teased and bullied, but he hadn’t expected anyone to care. He looked up in surprise, and froze when he saw it was the village troublemaker.  

    

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 152 Part 2

    A squeak sounded, and a field mouse darted out. Lu Gu jumped in fright, quickly stepping aside. The mouse scurried away swiftly, disappearing to who-knew-where.  

    "Ah, there’s quite a bit!" A Xia, her hands covered in dried mud, craned her neck to see the grain in the burrow and couldn’t help exclaiming, "This must be at least three or four catties!"  

    Grandma Wu was overjoyed. She stepped forward, trembling hands opening the sack. Wu Tai glanced at the four spectators, confirming they had no intention of snatching anything, before setting down his shovel and squatting to scoop up the grain by the handful, not just rice but also beans and peanuts.  

    Having satisfied her curiosity, Shen Yan bid Grandma Wu farewell and left with Lu Gu, A Xia, and the others.  

    The fields were close to the new house. Since A Xia and her younger brother went back to digging for earthworms, Shen Yan said, "Brother Guzi, let’s go this way and check on Brother Daqing at the house, see how the firewood chopping is coming along."  

    Lu Gu didn’t have much to do today and nodded. "Sure, we might even collect a few eggs."  

    Da Bai, accustomed to the new house, trotted ahead confidently and slipped in through the back door.  

    Shen Yaoqing was chopping firewood, while Wei Lanxiang tended to the vegetable plot, pulling out withered plants and turning the soil with a hoe to plant a few rows of winter greens.  

    "Mother," Lu Gu called out.  

    Wei Lanxiang looked up and smiled at the two of them. "Weren’t you doing needlework at home today? What brings you here?"  

    Seeing her wipe sweat and noticing her empty water bowl by the vegetable patch, Lu Gu hurried over to pick it up. "Yan Yan and I just saw Wu Tai digging up rodent burrows. Since it was close by, we came to check on things and maybe gather some eggs."  

    Wei Lanxiang nodded. "The hens have been clucking. I’ve been too busy turning the soil to check."  

    Lu Gu took the bowl to the front to fetch her some water before heading to the chicken coop. Shen Yan had already gone in with a bamboo basket, picking up three eggs from the ground.  

    He found two more in the nesting boxes. After searching around and finding no others, the two of them came out.  

    The spring chicks Wei Lanxiang had raised had also started laying eggs. They collected quite a few chicken and duck eggs daily. The ducks were predictable, laying at night, so they could gather the eggs in the morning. Hens, however, were less reliable, though at least they laid during the day, making it easier to find the eggs with a quick search.  

    As long as he was home, Lu Gu rarely went a day without eating an egg. Sometimes, if he grew tired of them, he’d skip a day or two.  

    Shen Yan carried the basket out first while he secured the fence gate to keep the hens from wandering.  

    Before he could take two steps, Da Bai started barking up ahead, drawing everyone’s attention.  

    Shen Yaoqing, who had been chopping wood, stopped and called Da Bai to heel. After a moment, he recognized the man entering from the front courtyard - it was Luo Biao, carrying a jar of wine and an oil-paper package.  

    "Eldest Brother Shen!" Luo Biao called out cheerfully.  

    Shen Yaoqing took the items with a smile. "You didn’t have to bring anything."  

    "The wine is for both brothers. The pastries are for Aunt Wei and the sisters-in-law." Luo Biao grinned, his eyes scanning the main hall with obvious curiosity about the new house.  

    With a guest present, Wei Lanxiang stopped working. She recognized Luo Biao, he had visited once before and was on good terms with Shen Xuanqing.  

    "Aunt Wei." Luo Biao was exceedingly polite to the Shen family, even greeting Shen Yan with a "How are you, little sister?"  

    Wei Lanxiang had a soft spot for well-mannered young men, especially those who brought gifts. She poured him tea and said, "Since you’ve come today, you must stay for a meal."  

    "Of course, of course." Luo Biao accepted without excessive courtesy.  

    Shen Yaoqing knew why he had come. Shen Xuanqing had mentioned it before heading up the mountain. But since their guest had just arrived, it wasn’t appropriate to broach the subject directly. Noticing Luo Biao’s interest in the house, he led him on a tour of the back.  

    Lu Gu had only met Luo Biao once before and didn’t have much of an impression. But since they were hosting him for a meal, two dishes wouldn’t suffice. Taking the egg basket from Shen Yan, he asked Wei Lanxiang quietly, "Mother, Sister-in-law wanted to stir-fry the hanging melon and steam a bowl of duck egg custard. Are these enough? Should we add another dish?"  

    Wei Lanxiang pondered. She had heard Shen Xuanqing speak well of Luo Biao, that he was honest and sincere with him. "Let's do this, have your sister-in-law add a few more eggs when steaming the custard. Slice some cured meat, soak the dried bamboo shoots, and stir-fry them together. There’s still autumn vegetables in the yard, dig one up and cook that too."  

    Four dishes, paired nicely, would sound better. With only Luo Biao as a guest, there was no need for excess, meat and eggs were already quite generous.  

    "Alright, I’ll let her know." Lu Gu carried the basket back, with Shen Yan following since there was an outsider present.  

    This time, Da Bai didn’t go with them.  

    After touring the spacious house, Luo Biao was thoroughly impressed. Shen Xuanqing had previously mentioned buying several mu of land southeast of the village to build a house and raise livestock. Given the vast area, the walls and construction had cost a fortune.  

    But seeing it today, the house was well-built. With this setup - raising livestock and growing vegetables, they could at least feed themselves comfortably and even earn extra money from sales.  

    That was why, upon arriving today, he had headed straight for the southeast of Qingxi Village. A house this large was impossible to miss.  

    Looking at the hens pecking in the coop, Luo Biao patted the fence and grinned. "No wonder Second Brother Shen said your family could supply eggs to the brothel too. With this many, it’s perfect."  

    With the Shen family, he didn’t hold back. Since Shen Xuanqing wasn’t here, he explained matters to Shen Yaoqing.  

    He had already settled things with the brothel, from now on, they would buy rabbits from the Shen family. Prices would vary by season: plump rabbits in late autumn would go for forty-five copper coins each. This time, he was here to take ten back for the brothel.  

    The price surprised Shen Yaoqing. Before heading up the mountain, Shen Xuanqing had mentioned that as long as it didn’t drop below forty copper coins, it would be fine. He hadn’t expected Luo Biao to push it higher.