Rebirth of the Useless Young Master’s Counterattack Chapter 28

Chapter 28: So What If It’s Destroyed

Before Mu Xiaolin could speak, Bai Ping rushed in, kowtowed, and loudly proclaimed her grievances. "Master, honored elders, my Xiaolin has been an ordinary person since childhood and is truly allergic to insects. How could he possibly have the courage to go near the graves and handle corpses?" Tears streamed down her face, giving her a pitiful appearance.  

"Who let her come here?" Mu Xiwang's expression turned extremely grim. This was a matter between the Mu and Mo families, no outsiders were allowed, especially Bai Ping.  

It wasn't a secret that less than half a year after the Mu family matriarch passed away, Bai Ping had attempted to take her place. If word got out, the Mu family would become a laughingstock. Yet, because of Mu Xiaolin, they had no choice but to reluctantly agree.  

Mu Changnian scolded, "Why are you here? This has nothing to do with you!" His gaze was full of warning.  

"Master, how could it not involve me? Xiaolin is the flesh of my heart, and now he’s being—" Bai Ping didn’t finish, but her meaning was clear, it was as if the Mu family was looking for a scapegoat.  

No one present was a fool. Mo Xiao glanced at Mu Xiaoran, whose face showed visible discomfort.  

"With both witnesses and material evidence present, Second Young Master Mu, do you still intend to keep denying?" Mo Xiangxiong asked coldly. How could someone so irresponsible be worth the Mu family patriarch’s intervention?  

Mu Xiaolin bit his lip, his face full of stubborn defiance. "I didn’t do it! You’re all framing me!" He knew that if he admitted it, he wouldn’t be able to stay in the Mu family any longer.  

"Tsk tsk… Who would’ve thought the Mu family would produce such a coward?" Mo Xiao said lightly. "I have a secret technique that can force the truth out of someone, though it will turn their soul into that of an idiot. Does Second Young Master Mu dare to try?"  

Mu Xiaolin’s face turned a sickly shade of purple. Under such pressure, he couldn’t even muster the strength to resist.  

"You disgrace!" Mu Xiaoran bellowed, and immediately, the pressure on Mu Xiaolin vanished, allowing him to exhale in relief.  

Mu Changnian didn’t dare breathe too loudly, his grandfather was furious, and he was in a difficult position.  

"Mu Xiaolin!" Mu Xiaoran said sharply. "Confession brings leniency, resistance brings severity. This is your last chance."  

When Mu Xiaolin met the killing intent in Mu Xiaoran’s eyes, his entire body trembled. Yet he still stubbornly insisted, "Great-grandfather, I didn’t do this! Are all of you just going to force a confession through torture?"  

Mu Lichuan couldn’t help but admire him, no wonder Mu Xiaolin had achieved so much in his past life. Such endurance was beyond ordinary people.  

"You-you- this is the fine child you’ve raised!" Mu Changnian pointed at Bai Ping and cursed.  

Bai Ping shielded her child and said coldly, "You’re all important figures, while we’re just ordinary people. Even if you kill us, there’s nothing we can do."  

Mu Xiaoran and the others were so furious they couldn’t speak. Finally, he let out a heavy sigh. "Fellow Daoist Mo, just use your method." Someone so unrepentant, even if they were a genius wouldn't necessarily be good for the Mu family.  

Mo Xiao was surprised, his eyes filled with respect. "In that case, don’t blame this old man for being merciless…" With that, he walked toward Mu Xiaolin.  

"N-no don’t, I-I’ll talk! It was me! I did it all!" Mu Xiaolin didn’t want to become an idiot. He could clearly sense that this old man intended to destroy him completely. He couldn’t be ruined, absolutely not!

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 156 Part 2

    Outside, the snowstorm continued. With nothing to do, Shen Xuanqing got up and fetched three sweet potatoes from the corner. Using a stick, he stirred the brazier’s embers and buried the potatoes beneath the ashes. After adding two more logs, the flames surged anew. Leaning back in his bamboo chair, hugging the heated brick, he looked utterly relaxed and content.  

    Guaizi whined softly, shifting his paws before settling again by the fire. He was bold, unafraid of the flames.  

    Seeing Lu Gu busy with embroidery, Shen Xuanqing didn’t disturb him much. Though they exchanged few words, the intimacy between them was unmatched.  

    Before long, he reached for Lu Gu’s hand. Despite the brazier, constant movement and distance had left it cooler than when he’d held tangpozi. “Take a break,” he said. “Warm up before continuing.”  

    “Alright.” Lu Gu didn’t refuse, taking back tangpozi to heat his hands. A hint of smile danced in his eyes. Since last winter, with thick clothes and tangpozi, his hands and feet had stayed free of chilblains.  

    Shen Xuanqing sat up straight, pulling Lu Gu’s hand closer. “At noon, we’ll stew pork ribs. Once the snow stops, if Meng Dayue slaughters another pig, we’ll buy some fatty meat to render lard. It’ll make stir-fries fragrant, and we can mix it into rice.”  

    “Speaking of which, we ought to raise a few pigs ourselves. There’s plenty of empty space in the backyard. Since it’s winter and work’s slow, I’ll build a pigpen with Brother one of these days. By next winter, we can slaughter them, no more worries about pork, and we can even sell some for money.”  

    Raising pigs was a significant matter. Lu Gu’s heart swelled with joy, his eyes brightening. With this, their family would have every kind of livestock. Delighted, he didn’t even mind Shen Xuanqing playing with his fingers.  

    Shen Xuanqing, taking full advantage, found his fulang's hand soft and warm, stirring a restless itch in his heart, one he didn’t know how to soothe. Smiling, he added, “But pigs eat a lot. Foraging for greens is another chore. Still, we can hire He Zhi. You and Mother won’t have to toil as hard.”  

    “Once spring comes, the grass grows tall. Cutting it won’t be hard. Mother, Shen Yan, and I can manage.” Lu Gu tried to pull his hand back, but Shen Xuanqing held fast.  

    Shen Xuanqing knew he worried about overspending. “Sheep, cattle, chickens, ducks, rabbits, and now pigs—all need grass. The three of you could gather enough, but with fieldwork sometimes added in, it’d be too exhausting.”  

    Lu Gu fell silent, frowning slightly as he weighed the pros and cons. To him, every family had to work hard. Though tiring, earning money brought joy. They’d hired He Zhi and Dong ger earlier to stockpile winter hay, spending money had been inevitable then.  

    Seeing this, Shen Xuanqing chuckled. “Times have changed. We found you an embroidery workshop. Two cartloads of grass cost three coppers, but one handkerchief earns four. If you skip grass-cutting and embroider two a day, that’s five coppers profit.”  

    This struck Lu Gu like a revelation, leaving him momentarily dazed.  

    Village women and fulangs did embroidery and knotwork in their spare time, after other chores. Having grown used to this, Lu Gu had naturally assumed the same.  

    Shen Xuanqing pressed on. “I say, from now on, you needn’t cut grass. Focus on embroidery and tending the chickens and ducks. The eggs alone bring in eight or ten copper coins daily, that’s what really matters. Hiring someone for grass is nothing.”  

    “Don’t you agree?”  

    “Yes, yes.” Caught off guard, Lu Gu quickly assented. He felt uneasy about skipping labor, but Shen Xuanqing’s logic seemed solid.  

    Amused by his dazed look, Shen Xuanqing smiled.  

    He wasn’t forbidding Lu Gu from working, with so much livestock, chores were inevitable. But now that they had money, and since Lu Gu enjoyed embroidery—which also earned income, he might as well focus on it. In the future, they’d hire help for grass-cutting and fieldwork. Lu Gu’s constitution had always been weak, there was no need to overexert himself.  

    Besides, gaining a little weight would make pregnancy easier, wouldn’t it?  

    Lu Gu trusted Shen Xuanqing implicitly. With the matter settled, his frown smoothed away. His hands now warm, he tried to withdraw them to resume work, only for Shen Xuanqing to tighten his grip, even nipping his fingertip with a sharp canine, gently grazing the pad.  

    The intimate gesture sent Lu Gu’s heart racing. Thankfully, they were alone.  

    Shen Xuanqing, oblivious, found the nibble eased the restless itch in his chest somewhat.  

    As the sky brightened, the snow and wind abated slightly. By late morning, the two locked the courtyard gate and headed to the old house—otherwise, Wei Lanxiang would brave the snow to summon them for lunch.  

    The stewed pork ribs were delicious, the pot simmering on the clay stove for over an hour.  

    The rich aroma was irresistible. In such heavy snow, cold and hunger came easily. So even before mealtime, the family gathered around the stove, bowls in hand, fishing out ribs and cabbage leaves from the broth.  

    Though lacking chili, the hearty, savory soup warmed them from within, banishing fear of the icy storm outside.  

    After eating, Lu Gu skipped cooking but not cleanup, heading to the kitchen to wash dishes. Outside, Shen Yaoqing swept snow with a long broom, clearing a path before it grew too deep to manage.  

    As Lu Gu scrubbed away at the dishes, Lu Gu assumed Shen Xuanqing was resting indoors. But before long, just as he set the dishes aside, faint puppy yips reached him. Stepping out, he saw Shen Xuanqing braving the snow, returning from Lin Jinhu’s house with two plump, round, earth-yellow puppies cradled in his arms.  

    Shen Xuanqing held one in each arm, the pups occasionally kicking their legs midair, whimpering cutely. At the sight, Lu Gu’s lips curved into a delighted smile.  

My Fulang is a Delicate Flower Chapter 1

September brought crisp autumn air. While the gardenias were fading, the osmanthus was in full bloom, filling the breeze with a rich, sweet fragrance.  

During this season, the roads were usually bustling with leisurely nobles out to enjoy the autumn scenery, their grand carriages traveling back and forth along the official highways, it was a lively sight.  

However, today, far fewer travelers were on the road. It was the year of the horse, and this day marked the release of the triennial provincial examination results.  

Any family with a scholar who had taken the exam had gone to await the results, leaving few in the mood for outings.  

"Second Cousin is bound to pass this time. Auntie said his essays were often posted on the academy’s notice board for other scholars to read."  

"Cousin studies diligently. With both talent and hard work, there’s no reason he wouldn’t succeed."  

On the highway, two young gers were walking together toward the city.  

"Once Cousin passes, he’ll surely propose to your family. Soon, I’ll have to call you cousin-in-law, you’ll have to look out for me then!"  

Ji Taoyu walked along the road, still feeling somewhat dazed.  

He had stayed up late last night reading medical texts and was roused early this morning by the ger of the Yu family, who had stopped by his house to invite him into the city.  

Taoyu wasn’t fond of going out, and the two of them weren’t particularly close, they merely exchanged greetings when they happened to meet in the village. He hadn’t planned to go at first.  

But today was the announcement of the exam results, and since someone he knew had taken the test, plus his mother had subtly urged him to check, he ended up accompanying the Yu family’s ger into town.  

Late autumn was approaching, and the morning wind carried a chill. Taoyu cupped his face in his hands, seeking a little warmth.  

He had been walking in silence, listening to the Yu family’s ger chatter away, but as the talk grew bolder, mentioning marriage and calling him cousin-in-law, his cheeks flushed, and he couldn’t help but interrupt: "The marriage is just something the elders joked about. It’s not settled yet. Xia ger, be careful with your words."  

"But wasn’t it arranged since childhood? Everyone in the village knows about it. Now that you’re both of age, it’s only natural to discuss marriage. Why be shy?"  

The Yu family’s ger nudged Taoyu with an elbow. "What’s wrong? Don’t tell me you regret it and don’t want to marry Second Cousin?"  

Taoyu’s expression stiffened. As a famously frail ger in the area, how could he, of all people, afford to regret being matched with a scholar of marriageable age? Others envied him for it.  

Ji Taoyu had always grown slower than other ger his age.  

When his peers were walking, he was still crawling. When they could speak in full sentences, he was just learning to call his parents clearly.  

As a child, his family had worried he might be slow-witted. Fortunately, as he grew older, no intellectual deficiencies appeared. In fact, he learned to read and write quickly, which reassured his parents.  

But while his mind was sharp, his weak constitution was undeniable.  

As a child, his fair complexion made him endearing, but he remained thin and small, like a lamb that couldn’t be fattened no matter how much he was fed.  

The slightest bump or scrape would make him cry, even if his skin wasn’t broken. A gust of wind or a sudden rain in midsummer could easily leave him with a cold. He had been delicate since birth.  

More than once, a moment of carelessness led to serious illness. If not for his grandfather being a physician and ensuring prompt treatment, he might not have lived to this age.  

His grandfather said he had a congenital weakness, his senses were more acute than most.  

He fell ill more easily and felt pain more intensely, requiring far greater care than ordinary people.  

Knowing his own frailty, Ji Taoyu had studied medicine under his grandfather to spare his parents some trouble.  

But as the only ger in the family, his parents never saw him as a burden. Instead, they felt guilty and took even greater pains to care for him.  

His father, a shrewd man, had made early arrangements for his future, betrothing him as a child to a boy from their village.  

Over the years, the family had supported the Yu family’s second son in his studies, and their efforts hadn't been in vain. The young man had already earned his xiucai degree and was now taking the provincial exam, his future bright.  

The family hoped he would pass this time. Once the marriage was settled, Ji Taoyu’s future would be secure.  

Seeing Taoyu silent, the Yu family’s ger pressed on with certainty: "Well, you’re so pretty. There must be wealthy families in the city who’d want you."  

"Xia ger, where did you hear such nonsense?"  

Over the years, there had indeed been lustful young nobles or wealthy merchants who sought Ji Taoyu, but none with honorable intentions, they only wanted to buy a plaything.  

His parents despised such people, and it was a sore spot for him. He wasn’t sure if the Yu family’s ger was simply blunt or deliberately mocking.  

Just as Ji Taoyu was about to retort, a heavy clatter of hooves sounded behind them.  

They turned to see a sleek black horse with a piercing gaze trotting steadily down the wide earthen path.  

Though the horse wasn’t galloping, its sheer size made Ji Taoyu instinctively pull the Yu family’s ger back a few steps to avoid it.  

The horse was broad-chested and well-proportioned, its coat glossy, its movements carrying an untamed wildness.  

Ji Taoyu knew little about horses, but this one seemed finer than any he’d seen before. Its snorting breath alone felt more intimidating.  

Well-dressed onlookers turned their heads at the sight, murmuring in admiration.  

Near the city gates, even the well-traveled elite paused to admire the horse. Ji Taoyu guessed it must be a rare breed.  

It was no wonder even the wealthy found it remarkable.  

Good horses were scarce in the south. With the northwest embroiled in constant war, most horses were reserved for the military, leaving few fine specimens in the south.  

For such a steed to appear on the road instead of in some noble’s stable was indeed a sight to behold.  

"That man looks terrifying," the Yu family’s ger whispered, clutching Taoyu’s arm and hiding behind him.  

Taoyu followed the horse’s towering frame upward.  

On its back sat a man in coarse hemp clothing, a plain black cloak draped carelessly over one shoulder, lending him a rugged, frontier air.  

His attire suggested no noble status—rather, he seemed like a wanderer who had traveled north and south.  

The man was tall and powerfully built, his long legs gripping the horse’s sides effortlessly. The reins lay loosely in his hand, as if he controlled the beast more with his legs than with the bridle.  

His sharp, expressionless eyes stared straight ahead, his imposing aura deterring anyone from meeting his gaze.  

Southern men were considered tall at five chi, but even on horseback, this man stood well over six chi. 

[1 chi ≈ 31 cm] 

Due to his poor health, Ji Taoyu seldom went out and had never met anyone as intimidating as the village butcher, whose bulging muscles and wide stride made him formidable.  

Thankfully, the rider ignored the stares and continued forward. Had he glanced their way, Ji Taoyu was sure his heart would have raced in fear.  

Though the wealthy coveted the horse, none dared approach, fearing they might offend the rider and invite trouble.  

They could only watch as the man rode his magnificent steed into the distance.  

"People like that are rare around here. Even in a crowd, he’d tower over most. And that face... imagine waking up next to him in the middle of the night. You’d lose half your life from fright!"  

Once the horse was gone, the Yu family’s ger reemerged, chattering about the stranger.  

"Someone like Cousin who is refined, gentle, and well-spoken is much better."  

Taoyu pursed his lips. Based on appearances alone, the man did seem imposing and fierce.  

But people couldn’t be judged solely by their looks.  

"With that demeanor, he might be a soldier. I heard the war in the northwest has finally ended, and many conscripts who survived are returning home. You know the kind of men who survive battlefields, best to steer clear if we see him again."  

Ji Taoyu frowned. "If he truly is a returning soldier, we should respect him. Without them defending our borders, how could we enjoy peace?"  

"Peace? After all those years of fighting, we still lost. The court had to cede land and pay reparations. Our taxes keep rising. Soon, we won’t be able to survive."  

Ji Taoyu’s brow furrowed. "Victory or defeat isn’t solely the soldiers’ fault. Taxes are the court’s decision, not theirs."  

"Ugh, I don’t understand these grand matters anyway. Cousin told me all this. As a scholar, he’s more informed about the world than we are."  

Ji Taoyu’s eyes narrowed slightly. He hadn’t asked who had shared this information, yet the Yu family’s ger kept bringing up Second Cousin, speaking as if they were intimately acquainted.  

The way he gushed about "Cousin" made Taoyu study him more closely.  

But the ger's expression remained guileless. Even so, Ji Taoyu began to see through him.  

Still, since the Yu family’s ger was related to the man by blood, and Ji Taoyu himself had no formal ties to the man, he couldn’t openly rebuke him.  

He resolved to keep his distance in the future.  

Cutting the conversation short, Ji Taoyu said, "It’s getting late. Let’s hurry."  

Though they had left early, by the time they reached the announcement platform outside the prefectural yamen, it was already packed with onlookers.  

[yamen (衙门 yámén): the administrative office or government headquarters of local officials in imperial China (e.g., magistrates, prefects)]

Among them were scholars’ families, servants, and messengers hoping for good news.  

Ji Taoyu, being short, stood on tiptoe, trying to spot young man's name, but the crowd was too thick, he couldn’t even see the red announcement list, let alone his name.  

The Yu family’s ger, however, was buzzing with excitement.  

"I see the yamen runners coming! Taoyu, let’s push through!"  

"At our height, we’ll get trampled."  

Ji Taoyu quickly stopped him. Crowd crushes had happened in previous years.  

"It’ll be fine!"  

The Yu family’s ger grabbed Ji Taoyu’s wrist and pulled him forward. "We’ll go along the riverbank."  

Before Ji Taoyu could respond, the tight grip on his wrist sent a sharp pain up his arm, forcing him to quicken his steps.  

"Xia ger, be careful!"  

But the Yu family’s ger paid no heed, skirting the edge of the platform along the river railing.  

On one side was the jostling crowd; on the other, the deep river below. Ji Taoyu’s heart leaped into his throat.  

"Xia ger, there’s no rush. Once the results are posted, we’ll know soon enough."  

"What? We have to see it the moment it’s up!"  

Ji Taoyu’s legs felt weak. Just then, a gong sounded ahead, and a yamen runner shouted, "Announcement posted!"  

He took a deep breath. With the crowd surging, there was no turning back, they had to move quickly.  

But just as he quickened his pace, the Yu family’s ger suddenly stopped and stared at him, a strange resolve flashing in his eyes.  

Before Ji Taoyu could react, the hand on his wrist yanked hard and shoved him toward the river.  

His feet slipped. As the yamen runner’s voice echoed—"Maintain order! No pushing!"—his body tipped over the edge, and the green September river swallowed him whole.  

The splash was drowned out by the crowd’s noise.  

Through the water, Ji Taoyu saw the Yu family’s ger glance at him from the railing before disappearing into the throng.  

Panic seized him. The water pressed in from all sides like a suffocating cloth, dragging him down despite his slender frame.  

Water rushed into his nose and mouth, choking him, burning his throat.  

In his terror, he flailed, but no words escaped—only bubbles.  

Rebirth to Erase Dark History Chapter 52 Part 1

Chapter 52: Yang the Retorter

    Ren Boying stepped forward and patted Meng Fan’s head. “Meng Three-Year-Old, you’re still too young to understand.”  

    Meng Fan immediately jumped up indignantly. “And why is it Chang Five-Year-Old and Meng Three-Year-Old? Why not Chang Three-Year-Old and Meng Five-Year-Old?”  

    “Is there a difference?” Ren Boying crossed his arms and looked at him.  

    “Pah! I’m not a kid anymore, I’ve been an adult for ages. Whatever three-year-old or five-year-old has nothing to do with me.” Meng Fan refused to back down.  

    “Oh, really? Kids in kindergarten also say they’re not little anymore, that they’re big kids now.” With that, Ren Boying chuckled and walked out, leaving Meng Three-Year-Old stomping in place.  

    Wei Jing glanced at him and summed it up: “Seems like the past couple of days really wore you out, your IQ’s hit rock bottom.”  

“Two jerks.” Meng Fan grumbled unhappily.  

Yang Jiabo went to the kitchen and asked Chef Wang to prepare a table of good dishes. He then headed to the tea room, brewed a pot of aged Pu’er, and flipped through a magazine. The tea room played 'High Mountains and Flowing Water,' serene and distant. In his past life, when Yang Jiabo performed tea ceremonies, the background music had always been guzheng, he was used to it.  

[High Mountains and Flowing Water (高山流水, Gāo Shān Liú Shuǐ): A famous guqin piece symbolizing deep friendship]

Sunlight streamed through the carved wooden window, casting floral shadows on the floor. In the porcelain vat by the door, white water lilies bloomed quietly, while little red koi occasionally surfaced.  

When Wei Jing and the others entered, they were met with a picture of tranquil beauty, though not everyone could appreciate it.  

“Jiajia, what’s got you so engrossed?” Wei Jing walked over.  

“Just a gossip magazine, killing time.” Yang Jiabo casually set the magazine aside. “The food isn’t ready yet. Take a seat, what tea would you like?”  

Ren Boying glanced at the tea in the fairness pitcher. “This is fine.”  

“Do you have Lu’an Melon Seed tea?” Qin Rong asked.  

[Lu’an Melon Seed tea (六安瓜片): A premium green tea from Anhui, China]

“My apologies, I should’ve been clearer. This is just a simple countryside home, we only have basic Longjing (龙井), Biluochun (碧螺春), Tieguanyin (铁观音), Pu’er, Yunwu (云雾), and some common floral teas. As for Lu’an Melon Seed, Wuyi Big Red Robe (武夷大红袍), Tianping Houkui (太平猴魁), and the like… we don’t have any of those.” Yang Jiabo smiled amiably, but his words weren’t nearly as polite.  

“Jiajia, what tea are you brewing now?” Wei Jing changed the subject.  

Yang Jiabo: “Pu’er. If you’re not used to it, I can brew you some Tieguanyin.”  

“Sure.” Wei Jing nodded.  

“Brother Wei Jing, let me brew the tea. I studied tea ceremony for a while, let everyone try my skills.” Qin Rong’s smile carried a hint of smugness.  

“Thanks, but you’re a guest. Let Jiajia, the host, handle it.” Wei Jing declined politely. “Jiajia, sorry for the trouble.”  

Yang Jiabo took an exquisite tea canister from the display shelf, boiled water, rinsed the cups, and brewed the tea. His movements flowed effortlessly, carrying a unique grace. Those who had initially been unimpressed were now staring in awe.  

Performing tea ceremonies had once earned him commissions, anywhere from 20 to 80 yuan. To make extra money, Yang Jiabo had practiced relentlessly and read countless books on tea art. Though his performance style had been somewhat flashy, he gradually refined it after starting his own business.  

“Jiajia, you’ve studied tea ceremony, right? Your movements are beautiful,” Meng Fan asked curiously.  

Yang Jiabo replied modestly, “Just a little, barely scratching the surface.”  

“Inhaling the aroma, savoring the taste, this is top-grade Tieguanyin King, isn’t it?” Xu Chen asked.  

“Impressive.” Yang Jiabo gave him a thumbs-up, genuinely impressed.  

“A delight for the eyes, and the tea’s excellent too. Good thing I didn’t embarrass myself in front of an expert.” Chang Jin glanced meaningfully at Qin Rong before looking ingratiatingly at Tang Yu. “But my favorite is still the ginger tea Sister Tang brews for me.”  

“Show off your love, die faster.” Meng Fan rolled his eyes.  

“The young boss’s tea-brewing skills are indeed good, but the best craftsmanship returns to simplicity.” Qin Ruiwen smiled.  

“I don’t rely on tea-making for a living, nor do I pursue the tea ceremony. If you want to see the best skills, find a tea master. My meager abilities are just for my own amusement.” Yang Jiabo retorted.  

“The water is too hot, the tea is over-brewed. Proper tea water shouldn’t reach 100 degrees,” Qin Rong criticized.  

Yang Jiabo smiled without responding. Xu Chen sneered, “Pretending to know when you don’t, your IQ is truly moving.”  

“Xu Chen, what do you mean by that?” Qin Rong set down her cup and glared at him.  

“Didn’t you study tea ceremony? If you can’t even appreciate tea, you should be ashamed to show off.” Chang Jin mocked.  

Qin Rong’s eyes reddened as she turned to Wei Jing, aggrieved. “Brother Wei Jing, look how they’re bullying me.”  

“Are they?” Wei Jing looked puzzled.  

The Rebirth of Crazy ger Chapter 49 Part 4

Yue ger watched silently, his heart seething with murderous intent, yet his face showed nothing.  

He stepped forward, closing the distance between them until he stood uncomfortably close.  

Yuan Heng and Wang Jin stared at him, but his eyes were fixed solely on the man before him.  

Ever since marrying his ger, Yuan Heng had deliberately kept his distance. They hadn’t stood this close in so long.  

Yue ger felt dazed. Wang Jin, noticing his gaze locked onto Yuan Heng, grew irritated. 

This man is about to marry someone else, why are his eyes still glued to Yuan Heng?  

He stepped forward, blocking Yuan Heng, and offered a saccharine congratulations: "May your marriage be joyful, and may you be blessed with children soon."  

The words were a mere pretense, Wang Jin’s real goal was to separate Yue ger from Yuan Heng. Of course, Yuan Heng saw right through the little ger’s ploy.  

His heart stirred. This ger… always manages to soften and delight me.  

Secretly, Yuan Heng hooked his pinky around Wang Jin’s, unable to suppress the smile tugging at his lips.  

Yue ger watched, his heart growing bitter.  

So they’re all so happy about my marriage…  

Wang Jin is happy… and so is Brother Heng…  

He lowered his head with a bitter chuckle, the sound hoarse and strained. Wang Jin found it odd, but when Yue ger looked up again, his expression was bright and cheerful.  

"……" Wang Jin couldn’t shake the feeling that Yue ger was acting stranger than ever.  

Suddenly, Yue ger pulled Wang Jin into an embrace, pressing his face close to his ear.  

"……Brother Heng will be mine sooner or later," he whispered, voice low enough that only Wang Jin could hear.  

Wang Jin’s eyes widened in shock, fury surging through him. Just as he moved to shove Yue ger away, Yuan Heng yanked him back, tucking him protectively against his side.  

Yuan Heng’s expression was dark, part wary, part possessive.  

Wang Jin’s face was no better, glaring at Yue ger as if ready to tear him apart.  

What did he just say?!  

That Yuan Heng would be his someday?!  

He’s getting married, and he still won’t give up?!  

What’s wrong with him?!  

Wang Jin’s confusion only sharpened his hostility, his gaze locked onto Yue ger like a threat.  

The crowd, oblivious to the whispered words, only saw Yue ger hug Wang Jin amiably before being met with twin glares.  

Yue ger put on a wounded expression. "Brother Heng, Jin ger, why are you looking at me like that? I just wanted to hug A-Jin to apologize. Brother Heng, I’d never hurt him."  

His words swayed the onlookers, who now assumed Yuan Heng was being overly protective.  

What kind of beastman suspects a gentle ger like Yue ger?  

He came in goodwill, and they respond with such rudeness…  

"……" Yuan Heng’s brow furrowed, recognizing Yue ger’s manipulation.  

When Yuan Heng stayed silent, Yue ger turned to Wang Jin, eyes pitiful. "A-Jin, even if we had misunderstandings before, I truly want to make amends. Must you guard against me like this? Today’s my wedding, can’t we reconcile?"  

"!" Wang Jin nearly gaped. Now he understood.  

It’s all an act. The gentleness, the cheer, none of it’s real.  

He’s still the same Yue ger, still obsessed with Yuan Heng.  

Clutching Yuan Heng tightly, Wang Jin shoved him behind himself like a little beast guarding its meal.  

The crowd blinked, the atmosphere turning awkward.  

Why does Jin ger seem unwilling to reconcile?  

He was just congratulating Yue ger earlier!  

Are they really going to humiliate Yue ger at his own wedding? That’s going too far, he’s the future leader’s partner! Insulting him is like insulting the whole tribe!  

And the leader is right here, this is beyond disrespectful!  

Unease rippled through the gathering.  

Mu ger, sensing the tension, quickly interjected with forced cheer: "Hah! Yue ger, you should know better! Brother Heng is famously possessive, how could you just hug A-Jin like that?"  

Yue ger and the crowd froze.  

Mu ger pressed on, "If I so much as hold A-Jin’s hand, Brother Heng glares daggers at me. And you went for a full embrace? No wonder he’s furious!"  

With a few deft words, Mu ger reframed Yuan Heng’s defensiveness as mere jealousy.  

The crowd relaxed, many ger nodding in agreement.  

Yuan Heng’s possessiveness was well-known.  

If they spent too long chatting with Wang Jin, and his expression would darken, as if they were stealing his precious time.  

Voices chimed in:  

"So true, Brother Heng is the most jealous beastman in the tribe!"  

"I can vouch for that," one ger raised a hand.  

Others joined in: "Yep, absolutely!"  

"……" Yuan Heng’s ears burned at the public dissection of his behavior, though he couldn’t deny it. They really do take up too much of his ger’s time. The thought made his possessiveness feel justified.  

Mu ger’s eye twitched, but he pressed on: "Brother Heng, loosen your grip, A-Jin’s face is all scrunched up in pain! Be gentler with him!"  

With that, he smoothly explained away Wang Jin’s furious glare as a reaction to Yuan Heng’s tight hold.  

Yuan Heng, knowing full well he hadn’t squeezed too hard, played along and loosened his grip.  

Wang Jin, catching on, flexed his perfectly fine wrist with a show of pain.  

The crowd’s mood lifted, the festive atmosphere restored.  

Rebirth of the Useless Young Master’s Counterattack Chapter 27

Chapter 27: Irrefutable Evidence 

In his past life, his father had brought home a mistress despite his mother's objections, forcing them to live together in the same villa as if enjoying the privilege of having both Ehuang and Nuying. In the end, his mother committed suicide.  

[娥皇女英 (Éhuáng Nǚyīng): two legendary sisters who shared a husband, symbolizing harmony between co-wives.]  

Leaving aside whether her death was orchestrated by someone else, that man's actions had utterly shattered a woman's heart, tearing apart the facade of happiness.  

Mu Changnian's face stiffened slightly at the rebuttal. "You're right." He had nearly forgotten, his eldest son now possessed the Yin-Yang Eyes. Even if he only had the Five Spiritual Roots, there was still hope.  

Mu Xiaolin watched their interaction with a faint smile, but inwardly, his heart twisted with resentment. Since childhood, this man had taken everything from him. 

I will crush him under my heel.

"Dad, Elder Brother is so capable, it's only natural he wouldn’t want to marry Miss Mo," Mu Xiaolin muttered softly, his tone dripping with feigned sympathy.  

Mu Lichuan's expression turned icy. "Little Brother, since when do you speak for me? Choose your words carefully."  

"My engagement to Miss Mo was decided by the family. For the sake of the clan, sacrificing my personal interests means nothing."  

Mu Changnian had initially been displeased by the younger son's words, but seeing the elder's maturity, he felt somewhat relieved. "Your brother is right. Instead of gossiping like a woman, focus on clearing your own name. If you have time to spare, study the company’s policies, don’t give others leverage."  

"Yes, Father." Mu Xiaolin lowered his head meekly. 

Again, he scolds me in front of Mu Lichuan. If I really had no spiritual roots, I wouldn’t even qualify to be a pawn of the Mu family. 

Mu Lichuan's days continued as usual, though Xiao Mo was currently explaining more about cultivation. Unfortunately, the materials his grandfather had provided were sparse, offering little beyond basic texts. Left with no choice, he turned to cultivation novels for insight—while fictional, human creativity was boundless, and he could still glean useful knowledge.  

This planet was merely a secular one, with sparse spiritual energy. The most powerful cultivators here only reached the Golden Core stage, and even they hadn’t been seen for years. The truth of such claims was unclear.  

[Qi Refining (炼气) → Foundation Establishment (筑基) → Golden Core [(金丹) → Nascent Soul (元婴) → Deity Transformation (化神) → Void Refining (炼虚) → Soul Formation (合体) → Mahayana (大乘) → Ascension (渡劫)]

Mu Xiaolin was taken for spiritual root testing. When the Mu family's leader Mu Xiaoran saw that he possessed a single-element spiritual root, his excitement was palpable.  

"Excellent! Our Mu family has finally produced a genius!" Mu Xiaoran laughed heartily.  

Every decade, sects from other planets would come to recruit promising talents. With Mu Xiaolin's aptitude, he was certain to be chosen. Coincidentally, the next selection was next year, a tremendous opportunity for the Mu family.  

Mu Xiaolin stood respectfully, unable to suppress his joy. Mu Changnian and his son were equally thrilled, the Mu family would soon lead the cultivation world.  

"From now on, Xiaolin will study under me personally," Mu Xiaoran declared sternly.  

"Thank you, Great-Grandfather. But we still have tomorrow's issue to resolve," Mu Xiaolin replied humbly, a trace of worry flashing across his face.  

Mu Xiaoran paused. "What happened?" The Mu family's genius couldn't be threatened, he must be nurtured.  

Mu Changnian recounted the events. "The Mo family won’t let this go."  

After listening, Mu Xiaoran fixed Mu Xiaolin with a piercing gaze. "Did you go to the cemetery?" He knew the Mo family wouldn’t falsely accuse someone.  

"I... didn’t." Mu Xiaolin forced the lie out, his heart pounding under the pressure.  

"Tomorrow, I will accompany you to meet the Mo family." Mu Xiaoran's expression remained neutral, as if his earlier joy had never existed.  

Once Mu Changnian and the others left, Mu Xiaoran sighed heavily. "This child’s nature is twisted." Having lived so long, he could see through people at a glance.  

While geniuses were prized, a flawed character could drag down the entire family, a risk not worth taking.  

"Father, he was raised by an outside concubine. His upbringing can’t compare to Lichuan’s. But he’s still young, his temperament can be corrected with your guidance," Mu Xiwang reasoned. Family honor mattered, but abandoning such talent over morality seemed wasteful.  

Mu Xiaoran nodded. "You’re right. At his age, there’s still time to reshape him."  

The Mu family upheld justice. While worldly men might dally freely, they emphasized mutual consent, and the chance to scout more talents for the clan. Though most efforts were futile.  

Mu Lichuan got up early, anticipating the Mo family’s visit. To his surprise, even his great-grandfather arrived, proof that the test results were in. Otherwise, the old man wouldn’t have bothered.  

The Mo family came in full force, their patriarch and elder both present, clearly intent on securing justice for their granddaughter.  

The villa’s hall was packed, tension thick in the air. The elders, however, remained expressionless.  

"Old friend, let’s skip the pleasantries. How does the Mu family plan to deal with this?" Mo Xiu, the Mo family’s elder, spoke bluntly, his gaze locked on Mu Xiaoran.  

Mu Xiaoran nodded. "We’ll test again. If the evidence holds, the Mu family will give your clan due compensation."  

Their long-standing relationship couldn’t be broken over this.  

Mu Xiaolin kept his head down, his face unreadable. He had assumed his status as a single-element ice spiritual root genius would guarantee the Mu family’s protection. But now, it seemed the Mu family intended to sacrifice him. The thought filled him with bitter hatred.  

Hearing this, Mo Xiangxiong’s expression softened slightly. "Patriarch Mu, here is one of our allergic clansmen, and another who handled corpses. Observe first."  

To spare his granddaughter further humiliation, he skipped the details.  

The corpse insect ignored the allergic individual, crawling straight to the one who had touched a corpse.  

Mu Xiaolin trembled. I’m exposed, he thought. But he couldn’t surrender, not when everything was at stake.  

"Let the Mu family’s young masters and the allergic individual step forward," Mo Xiangxiong said solemnly when no objections arose.  

Mu Lichuan and the others stood at the center. This time, the two corpse insects hesitated between Mu Lichuan and Mu Xiaolin, an unexpected twist.  

"This...?" Mu Changnian was baffled. Yesterday, there had been no reaction. What was happening now?  

Mu Lichuan smirked inwardly. As I thought, my clothes were tampered with.

"Great-Grandfather, Grandfather, Elder Mo,, forgive my impropriety..." With that, he removed his shirt. A corpse insect immediately crawled toward it.  

"What is the meaning of this?!" Mu Changnian’s face darkened. His son’s behavior was disgraceful.  

"Father, I suspected something was on my clothes. Since I stood close to Little Brother earlier..." Mu Lichuan replied calmly as a servant handed him a fresh T-shirt.  

"Nonsense!" Mu Xiaolin paled. 

How did he notice? No one saw me! 

"Then prove it. Remove your shirt, let’s see if the insect crawls to you," Mu Lichuan challenged coldly.  

Though he often played as a pig to eat the tiger, some lines couldn’t be crossed. Losing his dignity would only invite contempt, especially from his great-grandfather who valued integrity above all.  

[扮猪吃老虎 (bàn zhū chī lǎo hǔ): lit. disguise as a pig to eat the tiger; fig. play dumb to outwit a stronger opponent.]

"Well said," Mo Xiu remarked, stroking his beard. He had disliked Mu Xiaolin from the start, the boy reeked of deceit.  

Cornered, Mu Xiaolin stripped off his shirt. The corpse insect scurried toward him instantly.  

"Get off!" He slapped it away, his face deathly white.  

"The truth is clear. The Mu family must act," Mo Xiangxiong declared.  

Mu Xiaoran’s expression darkened. Though he had suspected the truth, this "genius" had tried to frame his own brother. Such despicable character... "Mu Xiaolin, do you have anything to say?"  

Mu Xiaolin dropped to his knees. "Great-Grandfather, I’m innocent! This is all Elder Brother’s scheme!"  

Mu Lichuan stayed silent. Even now, he shifts blame.

"Fool! Do you take us for blind idiots?!" Mu Changnian roared, disappointment etched on his face. Such wasted potential.  

Transmigrated As Cannon Fodder To Marry Chapter 95 Part 1

Chapter 95

    "Hey, have you seen the imperial edict? Who would’ve thought General Wei Su didn’t die in battle?"  

    "Exactly! General Wei was such a good man. He fought for Dayue on the battlefield and guarded the borders for so many years—such great merit. Yet in the end, he met such a fate."  

    "It’s all because of that foolish emperor. Claiming he feared General Wei would rebel. In my opinion, he’s just incompetent and jealous. Look at the previous emperors of Dayue, none of them schemed to murder their own officials like him."  

    "I’d say the recent droughts and locust plagues were Heaven’s warning to him. Thankfully, he’s already old. Otherwise, Dayue would’ve surely fallen under his rule."  

    "While the people suffered disasters, he was busy obsessing over women in the palace, not caring for his subjects at all. And that so-called Fourth Prince incited refugees to kill and burn. Like father, like son, neither is any good."  

    "Persecuting the loyal and virtuous, cruel and unkind—he doesn’t deserve to be emperor!"  

    "..."  

    Emperor Changde’s public repentance edict was posted as an imperial proclamation. Within a day, it spread throughout Shengjing, and the common people were abuzz with discussion. Aside from shock at the true cause of Wei Su’s death, most cursed Emperor Changde as a tyrant.  

    Due to the buildup of past events, Emperor Changde's reputation among the common people had long since declined. Now, they held no respect for him, many even wished for his death.  

    Naturally, Emperor Changde hadn’t wanted everyone to know, but since he’d vowed to "publicly proclaim to the world," Jiang Lin and his allies seized the opportunity. Imperial proclamations were posted everywhere, ensuring no one missed them.  

    Beyond Shengjing, edicts were dispatched to every prefecture, county, and town, all to be displayed publicly. With officials turning a blind eye, the people grew bolder in their criticisms, saying whatever they pleased.  

    Yue Heng shared a trait with Jiang Lin, both considered themselves filial sons. So, he had people record the public’s remarks and personally recited them, word for word, to Emperor Changde in the palace.  

    Emperor Changde couldn’t bear the collapse of his carefully crafted image as a wise ruler. Overcome with rage, he spat blood. This time, he was truly ill.  

    So ill that he couldn’t even attend court.  

____

    "So, you’re now overseeing state affairs as regent?"  

    While the public debated Emperor Changde’s edict, the Wei family was joyfully preparing for Jiang Lin and Wei Yunzhao’s wedding.  

    Yue Heng came to share the good news of Emperor Changde’s illness, calling it an early wedding gift.  

    Whether the couple wanted this "gift" was another matter. Jiang Lin couldn’t help but worry for Su Qiao. If Yue Heng was this stingy, would he mistreat his future wife?  

    He decided he must warn Su Qiao.  

    "Of course. Everyone assumes that once the old man dies, I’ll immediately ascend the throne. Lately, he’s been guarding against me like a hawk, hiding the imperial seal and personal stamps. As if he’d rather die than pass the throne to me."  

    Jiang Lin interjected, "Isn’t that exactly what you want?"  

    Yue Heng nodded. "Precisely. This way, the throne will smoothly pass to its rightful heir."  

    Yue Heng had long claimed to have a successor in mind, but to this day, Jiang Lin and Wei Yunzhao couldn’t guess who it was.  

    Jiang Lin even wondered if the candidate truly existed.  

    Yue Heng said no more. He stood up and declared, "The gift has been delivered. I’ll return on your wedding day." With that, he leisurely departed.  

    Jiang Lin and Wei Yunzhao sat facing each other, staring until their eyes nearly crossed—yet still, they couldn’t deduce Yue Heng’s plan.  

    Finally, Wei Yunzhao took Jiang Lin’s hand. "Enough. If we can’t figure it out, we’ll know when the time comes."  

    Just then, Bai Zhi arrived to inform them their wedding robes were ready for fitting.  

    This wedding wouldn’t be grand—timing and prior public perception made a lavish celebration unfeasible. But all essential rituals and preparations were observed, including new attire.  

    "Good," Jiang Lin agreed cheerfully, hand in hand with Wei Yunzhao as they headed to try on the robes.  

    Upon entering, they found four sets of wedding robes neatly arranged. After a brief, awkward pause, both burst into laughter.  

    Apparently, both had secretly commissioned wedding robes, and both sets arrived simultaneously.  

    Jiang Lin leaned against Wei Yunzhao’s chest, teasingly stroking his cheek. "I didn’t realize you were so eager, secretly ordering wedding robes ahead of time."  

    Wei Yunzhao wrapped an arm around his waist, eyeing the two sets he hadn’t ordered. "You’re no less eager, my wife."  

    Jiang Lin: "So, how did you know my measurements?"  

    Wei Yunzhao’s grip tightened. "Naturally… from daily touch, memorized by heart."  

    His gaze then prompted Jiang Lin to explain his own knowledge.  

    Jiang Lin playfully swatted his chest. "Same here, constant touching engraved it in my mind."  

    "You little imp," Wei Yunzhao fondly tapped his nose. "Then let’s try them all."  

    "Let me help you dress," Jiang Lin offered eagerly.  

    "Help me dress, or… undress me?" Wei Yunzhao whispered the last words against Jiang Lin’s ear, making it burn.  

    Jiang Lin yanked his belt loose. "Both. Got a problem with that?"  

    "None at all. But first, my wife, kindly close the door. Unless you wish others to see what belongs solely to you."  

    Jiang Lin saw no flaw in this logic. Instead of moving, he called, "Close the door!"  

    A maid outside promptly obeyed. By then, Jiang Lin had already stripped Wei Yunzhao bare above the waist.  

    His hands traced from neck to abdomen, circling the defined muscles before settling on Wei Yunzhao’s lean waist. Sliding up his spine to his shoulders, Jiang Lin pressed him onto a seat and draped himself over his back.  

    "Standing’s better than lying down, easier to appreciate all angles."  

    "If you prefer, we’ll stand in the future. As long as you… can endure it."  

    Before Jiang Lin could ponder "endurance," Wei Yunzhao abruptly pulled him from behind onto his lap.  

    "My legs are fully healed now," he reminded. "Capable of many things."  

    Jiang Lin wriggled, fingertips brushing Wei Yunzhao’s cheek. "I know. That’s why I’m eager to get married, so we can do everything properly."  

    "Wife, if you keep provoking me, I may lose control. Perhaps we should focus on the robes first."  

    Jiang Lin grinned. "Fine. Let me help my husband dress."  

    Sliding off his lap, he pulled Wei Yunzhao upright and reached for his trousers.  

    Wei Yunzhao’s restraint snapped. Sweeping Jiang Lin into his arms, he carried him to the bed.  

    "You brought this upon yourself."  

    Jiang Lin looped his arms around Wei Yunzhao’s neck. "Mhm, but don’t overdo it. Our wedding night’s soon—wouldn’t want you spent by then…"  

    His words were swallowed by a kiss.  

    The robe-fitting session lasted from noon till dusk.  

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 156 Part 1

Chapter 156

    The night was too cold, the water in the vat had frozen over, and the stone troughs in the sheep and cattle pens were covered with a layer of ice shards. Feeding the sheep was manageable, as they had to scald bran and wheat chaff with boiling water every day, stirring it into a warm paste. The four sheep, big and small, ate and drank their fill, and by mid-morning, they were given some dry hay, so they never suffered from cold or hunger.  

    The calf had grown a little bigger. The floor of the cattle pen was thickly padded with dry hay. Cattle feared the cold, and in such freezing weather, they naturally needed warmth. Both sides of the pen were enclosed, with even the entrance half-blocked, leaving only enough space to pass through.  

    The calf lay in the thick pile of hay and only stood up when Shen Xuanqing came in with more. Warm breath puffed from its nostrils as it walked over.  

    Seeing that the usual water trough had frozen, Shen Xuanqing carried an empty bucket to the front hall and scooped boiled water from the earthen pot. He mixed it with cold water to make it lukewarm, then tossed in a handful of ground bean powder and two large handfuls of bran. After stirring, he carried it back to the cattle pen and poured it in.  

    Though the calf hadn’t yet started working in the fields, a block of rock salt sat on the trough—something Shen Xuanqing had bought earlier. The calf was clever and would sometimes lick it on its own, making it much easier to raise than cattle that refused to touch salt bricks.  

    Meanwhile, Lu Gu and Wei Lanxiang finished feeding the rabbits, then chopped hay and napa cabbage leaves mixed with wheat chaff and bran for the chickens and ducks. The water they pecked at had also iced over, only melting after being doused with hot water.  

    Shen Yaoqing shoveled rabbit droppings into the far corner of the yard. The sheep and cattle dung was mostly mixed into the hay piles, which had been refreshed just yesterday, so there was no need to clean it today.  

    With the livestock fed, there was nothing else to do. The snow still fell, but the sky had brightened slightly.  

    Since no stove had been set up here, meals were taken at the old house. But it was still early, so Lu Gu and Shen Xuanqing didn’t head over yet. The weather was freezing, and the dogs wanted to warm themselves by the fire. If the two of them left, who would add firewood? Or what if something caught fire unnoticed? It was safer to stay. If the chickens, ducks, sheep, or cattle in the backyard made noise, they could check on them promptly.  

    Besides, Lu Gu had gradually moved his needlework here over the past few days. Sewing shoe soles or doing embroidery here was just the same.  

    After Wei Lanxiang and Shen Yaoqing left, the snow and wind grew heavier. Keeping the doors and windows tightly shut made the air stifling, so they left a small gap and lit a brazier by the window in the main room for warmth. Now all four dogs could claim a spot around the fire.  

    Before the snow, Lu Gu and his family had gathered plenty of firewood from the mountains. Shen Xuanqing and Shen Yaoqing had also gone chopping, stocking both houses’ firewood sheds well. On snowy days like this, burning firewood for warmth was pure comfort.  

    Flames leaped up, and two sections of dry bamboo in the brazier crackled as they burned.  

    Lu Gu rested for a while, his hands warming up. Feeling idle, he passed the warming pan on his lap to Shen Xuanqing and took an embroidery hoop from the sewing basket beside him.  

    Sitting by the window gave him better light, and with the fire’s glow, embroidering wouldn’t strain his eyes.  

    Compared to women and fulangs, men had little to do during the idle winter. With snow falling, hunting trips were impractical, leaving them stuck at home. Those who enjoyed drinking might grab a small jug and spend half a day with a few friends. The liquor brewed by Wu Shun’s family in the village wasn’t as good as the town’s winery, but it was cheaper.  

    But Shen Xuanqing had no desire to go out today. He sat beside Lu Gu, leaning against his fulang's leg as he warmed himself by the fire, chatting idly and occasionally admiring Lu Gu’s embroidery.  

    Now that things had improved, the Zhiyun Embroidery Workshop would buy Lu Gu’s handkerchiefs, four copper coins apiece, one copper coin more than if he hawked them on the streets. After returning from the prefectural city, Shen Xuanqing had negotiated with the workshop owner. The business needed to turn a profit, and with only a few seamstresses, they couldn’t produce much. Many fulangs like Lu Gu sold their embroidery piece by piece to the workshop.  

    Only after inspecting the goods did the owner agree. Lu Gu’s handkerchiefs were finely stitched and exquisitely embroidered, with colorful patterns and hues that were far from crude.  

    Shen Xuanqing had initially hoped for five copper coins each. Though he’d asked Luo Biao about handkerchief prices, buying and selling rates were bound to differ. To play it safe, he first consulted Shen Yutao, who kept accounts for several shops in town. Shen Yutao, though fond of cutting corners, still had some conscience. Having previously accepted favors, he helped inquire when Shen Xuanqing approached him.  

    Rural embroiderers’ handkerchiefs were bought cheaply—three copper coins at minimum, four at most, never five. So Shen Xuanqing had to relent. The owner, impressed by Lu Gu’s work, struck the deal. Now Lu Gu no longer had to peddle his wares on the streets, he could simply deliver finished handkerchiefs to the workshop.  

    “Is that a butterfly frolicking among peonies?” Shen Xuanqing had learned to recognize some embroidery patterns now, though he’d never had the patience for such things before.  

    “Yes.” Lu Gu’s needle wove in and out. The handkerchief’s designs were small, confined to the corners, making them quick to complete. This peony was tiny, and the butterfly even smaller.  

    Otherwise, he wouldn’t have sold them for just three copper coins before. Colored embroidery thread wasn’t cheap. He’d stitched a few with more elaborate floral designs, but those were for family use, selling them wouldn’t have been worth it.  

Rebirth of the Useless Young Master’s Counterattack Chapter 26

Chapter 26: Favoritism 

Mu Xiaolin reacted instantly upon seeing the situation, he stood up and stomped the corpse insect to death without the slightest hesitation. The ruthlessness on his face gave Mu Lichuan a momentary daze, as if he were already seeing the fully grown Mu Xiaolin. 

No matter what, he had to find a way to eliminate him.  

Even as it was crushed, the corpse insect writhed desperately beneath his shoe, its squirming body visible at the edges—utterly revolting, until it was nothing but a smear of bloody pulp.  

"Dad, I'm allergic to bugs, yet Patriarch Mo still let that thing crawl toward me." Once the insect was dead, Mu Xiaolin's face twisted into an aggrieved expression, as if the cold-hearted boy from moments ago had never existed.  

Watching him, Mu Lichuan couldn't help but marvel. 

To be so scheming at such a young age... No wonder he climbed so high in my past life, even becoming a core figure in the Mu family. Talent alone wouldn’t have been enough. 

Even geniuses needed the right environment to grow—otherwise, they could easily be snuffed out.  

"Young Master Mu, do you really think anyone would believe such an excuse?" Mo Xiangxiong sneered. "The corpse insect crawled to you because your body carries the taint of the dead. So tell me, as a middle-schooler, how exactly did you come into contact with such things?"  

He had initially wondered if his daughter had mistaken the culprit, but now it was clear, this was all the Mu family's doing. Whether it was internal strife or something else, his daughter had been dragged into it innocently, and this debt would be settled thoroughly.  

"Patriarch Mo, I'm allergic to insects. My body naturally attracts them. The corpse insect came to me, it has nothing to do with corpses," Mu Xiaolin argued sophistically.  

Mo Xiangxiong turned his ire directly on Mu Changnian. "Patriarch Mu, what do you say to this? If you don’t believe me, do as your son suggests, find someone else with allergies and see if my corpse insect chooses them." Some things required solid evidence to prevent opportunists from exploiting doubts.  

"Patriarch Mo, my son isn’t wrong. Those allergic to insects fear allergens above all. Given your actions, his extreme reaction in killing the insect is understandable," Mu Changnian replied mildly. Those unfamiliar with allergies wouldn’t understand the suffering.  

His words only deepened Mo Xiangxiong’s scorn. "What an impressive Mu family! In that case, I shall pay your family a formal visit tomorrow with my clansmen!" With that, he left, dragging the still-stunned Mo Shanshan behind him.  

Now only the father and two sons remained in the hall. Mu Lichuan spoke first. "Father, was it wise to provoke Patriarch Mo like this?" The truth had been laid bare, yet his father had still taken Mu Xiaolin’s side. It seemed Mo Xiangxiong’s earlier words had struck a chord, his spiritual root test might happen sooner than expected.  

"Elder Brother, are you saying Patriarch Mo should have taken me away?" Mu Xiaolin bit his lip stubbornly. "Father, whether I’m truly allergic can be confirmed with a simple hospital test."  

"If I’m exposed to bugs, my whole body breaks out in rashes, enough to horrify anyone."  

Mu Lichuan’s expression remained indifferent. "But by doing this, little brother, haven’t you completely severed ties between the Mo and Mu families? Even if the truth comes out later, the rift will remain."  

Mu Changnian frowned at their exchange. "Xiaolin, come with me for a spiritual root test. As for Lichuan, Mo Shanshan is your fiancée. No matter what she becomes, you cannot break the engagement."  

"Father, isn’t that decision beyond my control? Shouldn’t we consult Grandfather’s opinion first?" The faintest trace of mockery curled at Mu Lichuan’s lips. 

I knew it would come to this.

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 155 Part 2

    Lu Gu ladled out two bowls of hot water and handed two square cakes to Shen Xuanqing. Since the dogs were hogging the stove, the two of them sat to the side, drinking water and nibbling the cakes to settle their stomachs.  

    The red bean cakes were soft and chewy. Since sugar was expensive, Wei Lanxiang had used only a little, but the natural fragrance of the red beans made the mild sweetness just right.  

    By the time Shen Yaoqing and Wei Lanxiang braved the snow to arrive from the old house, Lu Gu and Shen Xuanqing were already busy. Lu Gu carried a basket to the duck coop to gather eggs, while Shen Xuanqing hauled dry grass to feed the cattle and sheep.  

    With snow covering the ground, there was no need to sweep the yard. Wei Lanxiang and Shen Yaoqing shook off the snow under the eaves of the main hall. Thankfully, they all lived in Qingxi Village, close enough that even heavy snow couldn’t stop them from coming over.  

    Shen Yaoqing took a shovel and dung basket to clean the rabbit hutches, while Wei Lanxiang added two sticks of firewood to the clay stove before stepping outside. She’d want to warm her hands later, and keeping the fire going saved her from relighting it.  

    In the woodshed, she picked two heads of napa cabbage from the piled stock. They had planted a lot of napa cabbages here this year, and some still remained in the fields. After the snow, those would become frozen napa cabbages, just as tasty.  

    The pile in the woodshed was reserved for the rabbits. She placed the napa cabbages on the chopping board, cut off the roots, and sliced the leaves into long strips. Unlike chickens and ducks, rabbits didn’t need their food finely minced.  

    After filling the feeding basin with the sliced napa cabbage leaves, she carried it toward the rabbit hutches, also bringing an armful of dry grass. In winter, there was no fresh grass or leaves, so aside from napa cabbages, the rabbits relied on dry fodder. Mixing the two ensured they had enough to eat.  

    Having fed the rabbits many times before, she knew the routine. As soon as she approached with the dry grass, many of the rabbits hopped to the front of their hutches in anticipation.  

    They took good care of their rabbits. Once winter set in, each hutch was lined with thick layers of wheat straw and rice hay. Not a single stalk of the wheat and rice straw harvested from their thirteen mu of wheat and eight mu of rice fields had been wasted—all were stacked into haystacks, enough to last the entire winter.  

    The straw in the rabbit hutches, once dampened by urine, was replaced every three or four days. The soiled straw wasn’t thrown away either, it would be spread out in the yard to dry, it could still be burned as fuel. What did it matter if it was mixed with rabbit droppings? Country folk had always lived this way.  

    Shen Yaoqing swept and shoveled dung inside the pens. The sides of the sheds were tightly woven with bamboo strips, leaving no gaps for wind to slip through. The thatched roofs were sturdy, built with logs cut from the mountain and layered with more thatch, ensuring no leaks. The many supporting logs meant even heavy snow wouldn’t collapse them.  

    After gathering the duck eggs, Lu Gu set the basket in the main hall. Seeing Wei Lanxiang enter the hay shed, he hurried over. Both of them carried bundles of dry grass toward the rabbit hutches. With so many rabbits, each feeding required plenty of napa cabbage and hay.  

    As they walked, Wei Lanxiang said cheerfully, “With this snow, we still have those pork ribs from earlier. I told your sister-in-law we’d stew them today, just like last year—simmering them in a pot on the clay stove while we sit around it. Nice and warm. When your elder brother and I came over, she and Shen Yan were already chopping the bones. After stewing for two hours, the meat will be tender, and the broth rich.”  

    Though the cakes had staved off hunger, the thought of meat and broth in this cold weather made Lu Gu’s mouth water.  

    He smiled. “Then we won’t need to cook other dishes for lunch. We can chop some napa cabbages and boil it in the broth, meat and vegetables all in one.”  

    They had done this before when stewing meat. The vegetables absorbed the savory broth, making them even more delicious.  

    “Good, good. Just like that.” Wei Lanxiang nodded in approval. Both Lu Gu and Ji Qiuyue had been well-behaved since joining the family, never causing any trouble, and she couldn’t help but adore them. Whatever they fancied eating, as long as it was possible, not just her sons but even she would find a way to get it.  

    Besides, after Shen Xuanqing’s marriage, though the initial period had been rough, things had only improved since. Just a few days ago, Shen Xuanqing had returned from selling fox furs in the prefectural city, buying plenty of pork and bones from Meng Dayue, enough for both people and dogs to enjoy.  

    As for the money from the furs, only he and Lu Gu knew the exact amount: a full three hundred taels.  

    The two flawless white fox furs alone had fetched a hundred taels. The remaining twenty-two red fox furs, varying in quality, sold for another two hundred taels exactly.  

    Added to their previous savings of one hundred ten taels and the twenty-five taels from selling the dwarf deer, their total now stood at four hundred thirty-five taels.  

    He set aside four hundred taels, hidden at the bottom of a large chest. The remaining thirty-five taels were split—twenty to Lu Gu, fifteen for himself. In the mountains, he hardly spent anything, and back in the village, living expenses were low. Pork, oil, and salt were the main costs. Firewood, rice, vinegar, and tea were either homegrown or foraged. This year, Wei Lanxiang had even made persimmon vinegar herself. The fifteen taels in his pocket, along with some loose silver and copper coins, were more than enough for daily needs.  

    After returning from the prefectural city, he had borrowed Shen Shunwang’s ox to pull a cart loaded with mountain goods and a sack of new rice, taking Lu Gu to Jixing Town to visit Old Man Yang. They bought good wine and pastries, and even then, he hadn’t spent all his money.