Rebirth Married The Control group Fulang Chapter 139 Part 1

Chapter 139

    Ruili had been leaning against the balcony railing for hours until he finally spotted that familiar figure - the very one that had been keeping him awake at night. He quickly straightened up, smoothed his clothes, and dashed downstairs with a food box in hand.  

    "Ahem." He stood behind Ji Zhexi, watching as the man organized the bookshelves. Clearing his throat with a fist to his mouth, Ji Zhexi turned at the sound and, recognizing him, raised a brow. "Young Master Zhang, here to enlighten me again?"  

    "No." Ruili knew the man was mocking him for his earlier presumptuousness. One always had to pay for the recklessness of youth, so he didn’t take offense.  

    "This is for you." Ruili adopted a humble stance, presenting the food box with both hands. "I’ve been reflecting on my behavior lately and felt remorseful. Consider this an apology."  

    Ji Zhexi glanced at the exquisite box before turning away indifferently. "You overthink it, Young Master Zhang. I’ve long forgotten the matter. Besides, you’re hardly the first to misunderstand me. Accepting gifts without merit would only make me seem hypocritical."  

    With no one else around, Ji Zhexi’s lips curled slightly, though his eyes remained cold. "Some people, captivated by appearances, resort to unconventional methods to grab attention - first causing a scene, then showering favors to build closeness. A rather novel tactic."  

    Ruili withdrew the box and yanked Ji Zhexi around by the shoulder, glaring sidelong at him. "Are you implying  I went out of my way to catch your attention?!"  

    Initially, he had misunderstood the man and made a fool of himself. The memory alone made him burn with shame, keeping him awake at night. It had taken all his courage to come and apologize, yet this man wouldn’t even accept it!  

    Worse, the man had insinuated he wasn’t the first to make such a mistake. As if he were the one in high demand, while Ruili was the scheming villain.  

    The words infuriated him. Who would’ve thought this seemingly refined scholar had a tongue sharper than his own?  

    Ji Zhexi replied flatly, "Just stating facts."  

    "Good, very good!" Ruili nodded repeatedly. "May I ask your esteemed name, sir?"  

    Ji Zhexi remained impassive. "I’ve no reason to hide it, Ji Zhexi."  

    Ruili smiled in response. 

     You poor, pretentious scholar - you’ve successfully caught this young master’s attention! With that, he turned and left.  

    "Aaaah!" Back in his carriage, Ruili let out a furious scream, venting his anger with a flurry of kicks and punches against the carriage walls before finally calming down.  

    "Young Master, scholars are prideful. You’ve already shown sincerity by apologizing, whether he accepts it or not doesn’t matter," Ban Yan consoled, patting his back soothingly. Having only ever seen his master anger others, this was the first time he’d witnessed him so thoroughly bested, and it pained him.  

    Ruili clenched his fists. "The reasonable ones always lose! If I don’t teach him a lesson, I’ll have wasted all my years in Siyang!"  

    Ban Yan knew his master’s pride was wounded, having brought pastries made by Fulang himself, only to have his goodwill trampled. But fearing further trouble, he cautiously asked, "You’re not planning to have someone teach that scholar a lesson, are you?"  

    "I’m not some spoiled city brat. Beating up a frail scholar would be beneath me." Ruili shot Ban Yan a glare before adding, "Scholars rely on wit, so I’ll fight him with brains."  

    His eyes narrowed dangerously. "He mocked me for supposedly humiliating him publicly first, then showering him with favors to leave a lasting impression - as if I had ulterior motives! Fine, I’ll give him exactly what he wants!"  

    "Huh?"  

    Ruili smoothed the stray hairs at his temples and gritted his teeth. "Starting tomorrow, I’ll shower him with concern and flattery. Once he’s hopelessly smitten, I’ll kick him aside and watch him toss and turn in agony, weeping in regret!"  

    "Hmph! Ji Zhexi, just wait for this young master to love you and leave you!" 

    After days of inquiries and preparations, Ruili finally completed a meticulous plan. Spreading it across his desk, he proudly presented it to Ban Yan.  

    "Ji Zhexi attends Zizhu Academy - six days of classes, one day of rest. On his day off, he works at our family’s Liufang Bookstore. On school days, if he’s arranged odd jobs during lunch, he’ll go work; if not, he’ll search for opportunities. After classes, he heads to prearranged shops to help with bookkeeping, calculations, and such..."  

    "The academy’s teachers are strict, and his schedule is already packed. Yet he fills every spare moment with work, how is he not exhausted? Lunch breaks are barely two hours; after eating, how much can he really accomplish?"  

    Ruili explained, "The shopkeepers say Ji Zhexi has a photographic memory and excels at calculations. He does in one hour what takes others two. That’s why shops still hire him despite his limited availability."  

    Ban Yan’s eyes sparkled. "So Scholar Ji is truly one of a kind."  

    Ruili flicked his servant’s forehead. "Don’t lose sight of the goal!"  

    Rubbing his head, Ban Yan asked, "Then how will you proceed, Young Master?"  

    Reclining lazily in his chair, Ruili smirked with confidence. "I’ve already instructed our family’s businesses to prioritize hiring him for odd jobs - accept him immediately, reject others under any pretext. If other shops hire him, we’ll poach him with better offers. Rewards await those who succeed."  

    "With this, he’ll be entirely at my mercy!"

    That afternoon, a report came from their family’s eatery: Ji Zhexi would be helping with accounts later. Ruili beckoned the clerk, whispered a few words, and handed him a tip. The clerk left cheerfully.  

    Ban Yan, unaware of his master’s plan, assumed Ruili would arrange a "chance encounter" at the shop. But despite the elaborate setup, Ruili didn’t leave home.  

    Days passed, with daily reports from shopkeepers detailing Ji Zhexi’s whereabouts, tasks, and earnings.  

    Even while comfortably at home, Ruili had kept himself thoroughly informed about Ji Zhexi’s affairs. Finally, the day of Zizhu Academy’s break arrived. Early in the morning, Ruili roused himself, rummaged through his wardrobe for the finest Suzhou silk robes, and spent an unprecedented half-hour meticulously selecting jewelry before floating out of his room in high spirits.  

    Zhang Fangyuan, returning with salt, saw his youngest son dressed up like a peacock in full bloom, beaming as he dashed outside, and for a moment wondered if his eyes were playing tricks on him.  

    "It’s rare to see Young Master so finely adorned. Truly dazzling," Ban Yan remarked.  

    Inside the carriage, Ruili admired himself in a small bronze mirror, lightly smoothing a stray lock of hair. With this, how could you possibly resist me?  

    Though he had risen early, Ruili set out late, arriving at the bookstore long after Ji Zhexi had begun his work. The scholar sat with spine straight as pine, quietly transcribing texts in a secluded room - courtesy of Ruili’s instructions to the manager, ensuring minimal disturbances.  

    "Ahem~"  

    At the sound, Ji Zhexi looked up to see a young ger as vivid as a peony in bloom. His brow twitched slightly, but before he could speak, Ruili greeted him with a radiant smile. "Good morning."  

    As the saying goes, one doesn't strike a smiling face. Ji Zhexi responded politely, "Good morning, Young Master Zhang."  

    "See? We’re practically old friends now. You used to call me Young Master Zhang, and today you also call me Young Master Zhang." Ruili propped his chin on his hand, watching Ji Zhexi’s expression tighten as if biting his own tongue. Undeterred, he pressed on, "Why not call me by my name? I’m Zhang Ruili, or ‘Xiao Li ger’ if you prefer."  

     "It would still be better to call you Young Master Zhang."  

    Ruili wasn’t discouraged. He pulled out a small box of pastries and slid it toward Ji Zhexi. "I made these myself. Care to try?"  

    "I’m afraid I have no such fortune. My teeth are weak, I don’t eat sweets."  

    Ruili feigned sudden realization. "My mistake, my mistake! How thoughtless of me." Then he pushed forward an embroidered box. "Scholars love bamboo. I heard you study at Zizhu (purple bamboo) Academy, this jade bamboo hairpin would suit you perfectly for tying up your hair."  

    Before Ji Zhexi could speak, Ruili already recognized the refusal forming on his lips. Undeterred, he said, "Not fond of jade? No problem."  

    One after another, he produced gold, silver, jewels, fine brushes, inkstones, and paper, until the desk groaned under the weight of untouched offerings.  

My Fulang is a Delicate Flower Chapter 6 Part 2

Though Yu Sunshi didn’t understand what had angered Ji Taoyu, it clearly involved her son. She wondered if the two gers had quarreled, but Ji Taoyu’s icy tone sent a chill down her spine.  

Ji Taoyu had always been gentle and accommodating, this was the first time she’d seen him so cold. She sensed her son had crossed a line.  

"I’ll go ask Xia ger right away. Whatever happened, please don’t upset yourself, it’s bad for your health."  

Aunt Sun abandoned her errand and hurried home.  

Once she was gone, Ji Taoyu exhaled deeply, then crouched back down to harvest scallions.  

Xia ger had pushed him into the water, nearly killing him. Whether it was a moment’s spite or malice, Ji Taoyu wouldn’t rest until he saw some retribution.  

"Quite the sharp tongue."  

Ji Taoyu had been thinking that even if he hadn’t run into Aunt Sun today, he’d have sought her out later to settle the matter.  

But a voice from behind startled him so badly he nearly knelt in the dirt.  

If villagers overheard his earlier words, rumors would spread like wildfire.  

He turned slowly and saw a stern face looking down at him from higher ground, arms crossed. "But the one who pushed you was her son. Can you trust a mother to side against her own child?"  

"I can’t guarantee it, but their reaction will show their character. If they apologize, I’ll let it go. If not, I’ll involve my parents. In a small village, opportunities for payback will come."  

Huo Shu studied Ji Taoyu. The ger seemed soft and slow, but he wasn’t foolish.  

"That’s one way, but too roundabout. If you want revenge, I can help. Where do they live?"  

Huo Shu added, "My blade hasn’t seen use in a while."  

Ji Taoyu paled. "Murder lands you in prison!"  

"Who said anything about killing?"  

Ji Taoyu hesitated, but then Huo Shu continued flatly, "Chopping off a hand would suffice."  

"What’s the difference?!"  

Seeing Huo Shu’s indifference, Ji Taoyu grew genuinely alarmed. "The village is peaceful, no unsheathing weapons!"  

Huo Shu watched the ger’s face pale further, half-hoping he might cry again. But no such luck.  

"If you do this, I’ll report you to the magistrate."  

Huo Shu's eyebrow arched in surprise. A hint of amusement dancing in his eyes, this little cabbage dared threaten me?

[小白菜 (xiǎo bái cài): lit. Little cabbage; fig. Term for innocent/vulnerable person]

"Fine. If you don’t want it, forget it."  

Ji Taoyu exhaled in relief, then muttered under his breath, "Who knew warriors also eavesdropped?"  

"Broad daylight. I don’t cover my ears."  

Knowing he was at fault, Ji Taoyu softened his tone. "You… won’t tell anyone about this, right?"  

Huo Shu said, "Depends."  

Ji Taoyu wasn’t sure what to make of that, but he doubted Huo Shu was the gossipy type. That eased his mind slightly.  

"Why are you here, warrior?"  

"To burn incense."  

"At Uncle Zhao’s grave?"  

Ji Taoyu remembered Aunt Yuan's bedridden husband had passed two years ago and was buried in this area. He had even attended the funeral feast at the Zhao family's home.  

"Mn."  

"Did you come alone?"  

"Auntie brought me."  

Hearing this, Ji Taoyu's heart gave a thud. He turned his head to glance around but didn't see another person nearby.    

"Where’s Aunt Yuan?"  

"Forgot the firestarter. Went back for it."  

"…"  

Ji Taoyu exhaled, lips pressed thin. This man answered only what was asked - no more.  

If not for him being his savior, Ji Taoyu wouldn’t bother speaking to him.  

"Did you… finish your business?"  

"No."  

Ji Taoyu gave up. Not asking seemed ungrateful, but probing felt intrusive.  

"Then… take your time settling in the village."  

With that, he resumed harvesting scallions.  

Huo Shu watched the crouching figure, soft as a bundled cabbage.  

He remarked, "So eloquent with villagers, yet stammers with me. Am I some beast?"  

Ji Taoyu bit his lip. Wasn’t it obvious? One moment talking of murder, the next of maiming, who wouldn’t be scared?  

He silently plucked scallions, refusing to engage.  

Huo Shu, seeing his teasing ignored, switched topics. "I’m looking for someone but don’t know their name or where they live."  

Ji Taoyu paused and looked up. "How can you find them, then? Why look?"  

"To deliver something."  

"So you have a token?"  

At Huo Shu’s nod, Ji Taoyu realized he wouldn’t bring this up casually. "Do you… want my help finding them?"  

Huo Shu neither confirmed nor denied.  

"If possible."  

Ji Taoyu's eyes widened slightly.  

He said in low voice, "Then don’t tell anyone about today, and I’ll help."  

Huo Shu watched the ger’s tentative bargaining and raised a brow. "I saved you. You help me. We’re even."  

"Keeping your secret is separate."  

Ji Taoyu frowned. Earlier, this man had acted above repayment, now he was keeping score?  

"What do you want?"  

Huo Shu drawled, "Silence has a price."  

Taoyu hesitated. "You’re… short on money?"  

Huo Shu’s brow arched higher.  

Ji Taoyu, though knowing it was rude, couldn’t help thinking: At his age, still broke? What will he live on after the war?  

He pursed his lips. "I… don’t have much saved either."  

Huo Shu considered. "Then treat me to a meal."  

Ji Taoyu flushed. "Fine, whenever you’re free, let me know. My parents will prepare a feast to thank you."  

Huo Shu said, "Your parents’ feast is for saving you. For my silence, you treat me alone."  

"That’s improper! A man and ger can’t dine alone!"  

Ji Taoyu refused outright, but Huo Shu’s gaze turned sharp. He quickly averted his eyes.  

"Then… my lips might loosen."  

Huo Shu turned to leave.  

Taoyu panicked. "I-I can’t host you alone, but I’ll cook and pack the meal for you. Would that work?"  

Huo Shu stopped but didn’t turn. "Can you cook?"  

"Decently."  

"Then fine."  

Ji Taoyu exhaled, about to ask for details on the person Huo Shu sought, when Zhao’s mother returned with the firestarter. He fell silent.  

"Tao ger, picking vegetables?"  

Taoyu smiled. "Grandfather’s here for herbs. I want him to eat before heading back."  

"Such filial piety."  

After exchanging pleasantries, Ji Taoyu turned back—only to find Huo Shu gone, as if he’d never been there.

Rebirth Married The Control group Fulang Chapter 138 Part 2

    

    Ji Zhexi continued, “As for the cloth shop, it’s newly opened and needed help with accounts and inventory. I’ve been working there for two months. As for Yinqiu Tower—”  

    Before he could finish, Ruili cut in, “Alright, alright! You’re very hardworking.”  

    The onlookers’ expressions shifted again, lips pressed together in barely concealed amusement. Rather than watching a scholar’s schemes exposed, they far preferred seeing the famously sharp-tongued Zhang Ruili humbled, which was a rare sight.  

    Though they longed to gossip, they dared not do so openly in the Zhang family’s bookstore and could only stifle their laughter.  

    Ruili scanned the crowd, feeling as if his dignity had been trampled all the way beyond Siyang’s gates. Gritting his teeth, he muttered to Ji Zhexi, “My apologies for the disturbance.”  

    With that, he turned and stormed upstairs. The scholars below burst into laughter, their earlier scorn replaced by amusement as they congratulated Ji Zhexi. “Brother Ji, you’ve really outdone yourself!”  

    From the upper floor, Ruili shot a glare at the scene before hastily retreating into a private room.  

    “Young Master…” Ban Yan, his attendant, had never expected such a principless scholar. Watching Ruili’s flushed cheeks, he timidly offered, “Shall I fetch you some tea?”  

    Before he could escape, the shopkeeper arrived with tea. “Young Master, don’t let anger harm your health. Scholars can be blunt, pay him no mind. If you dislike him, I’ll dismiss him tomorrow. No, I’ll do it now.”  

    Ruili burned with shame over his first-ever bout of misplaced suspicion. Still, he waved the shopkeeper off. “Didn’t you hear how tragic his circumstances are? For someone like him to persist in his studies is no small feat. If I cut off his livelihood over my own mistake, wouldn’t that make me a bully?”  

    He huffed. “My fathers are merchants, but they’ve always been upright, everyone in Siyang praises them. My brother is now an official serving the people. What kind of terrible suggestion is this? Are you trying to ruin me?”  

    The shopkeeper quickly apologized. “This lowly one spoke carelessly. Please don’t take offense.”  

    “Enough. Uncle Li, you’ve watched me and my brother grow up. I know you mean well. Just pretend this never happened. Let him continue working here as before.”  

    The shopkeeper agreed profusely.  

    Ruili sat in the bookstore for a long while, rubbing his temples and groaning to Ban Yan, “I’ve completely lost face this time.”  

    Ban Yan cautiously comforted him. “It’s fine. That scholar just doesn’t know what’s good for him, how could he bot like you?”  

    “Stop,” Ruili groaned, mortified. “Ugh, let’s just go home.”  

    As he stood to leave, he suddenly yanked Ban Yan back. “You, go check if that Ji fellow is still downstairs. If I run into him again, I’ll die of embarrassment.”  

    “Right away!”  

    After scouting, Ban Yan signaled the coast was clear. The master and servant, who had arrived in high spirits, now slunk out of the bookstore and hurried to their carriage.  

____

    “What’s gotten into you lately? You’ve been cooped up at home for days, I hardly see you go out anymore.”  

    Xu He, having found a rare moment of leisure, had just received a letter from Zhang Fangyuan announcing his imminent return with the salt shipment. Delighted, he’d gone to share the news with Ruili, only to find the usually outgoing young ger holed up in the study.  

    “I just feel the weather is cold and don’t feel like going out,” Ruili mumbled, head down. “I’ve had the shop ledgers brought home, I can review them here.”  

    Xu He felt the world had turned upside down. He sat beside Ruili and studied him intently.  

    “Why are you staring at me like that? It’s creeping me out.”  

    “Spring’s here, and the streets are lively. In past years, you’d be off to the horse pastures before the grass even grew. Yet now, with polo matches in full swing and invitations piling up, you refuse them all. Tell me, what’s going on?”  

    “Nothing.” Ruili set the ledger aside. “With Dad and Brother away, I didn’t want you to be lonely. I thought I’d keep you company and tend to the family business. I’m not a child anymore, I can’t just play all day.”  

    Xu He’s brows rose. “How mature. But you should still enjoy yourself. Your Dad will be back soon.”  

    “Good. Once he returns, I can relax.”  

    Xu He ruffled Ruili’s hair. “Don’t overwork yourself. How about I make you some hundred-flower cakes (百花糕, Bǎihuā gāo)? The estate sent fresh blooms, you used to love flower pastries.”  

    Ruili nodded. “Thank you, Little Dad.”  

    That afternoon, two large plates of vibrantly colored hundred-flower cakes arrived in his room. His Little Dad's craftsmanship was impeccable, each cake resembled a delicate blossom, fragrant and sweet. Yet Ruili picked at them absently, his gaze drifting to the window.  

    Suddenly, his eyes lit up. “Ban Yan, fetch a food box. Pack these up.”  

Rebirth of the Useless Young Master’s Counterattack Chapter 36

Chapter 36: Young Master Mu's Little Scheme  

Mu Lichuan knew that spying on someone’s privacy was wrong, but being merciful to the enemy meant being cruel to himself. His past life was the best example, he had treated Mo Shanshan well, only for her to conspire with Mu Xiaolin, leading to his death at their hands.  

Mu Xiaolin was still young, but once he grew up, he would undoubtedly become a disaster for both Mu Lichuan and the Mu family.  

The pinhole camera had been difficult to plant, but with this evidence in hand, Mu Xiaolin and his mother would never gain the Mu family’s support. However, the dark energy inside that boy was troublesome, and it was unclear when it could be purged. Otherwise, killing him would be as easy as turning over a hand. Their ill intentions toward the Mu family alone justified it.  

Mu Xiwang no longer concerned himself with mundane affairs, focusing instead on cultivation matters and training a group of elite warriors - deadly agents loyal to the Mu family.  

The major families had already reached an agreement with the nation’s special agencies. They served as external members of the National Supernatural Division, stepping in whenever the state’s own special ability users failed to handle certain situations.  

"Lichuan wants to see me?" Mu Xiwang knew some matters were thorny - like Mu Xiaolin, who couldn’t be killed yet remained a ticking time bomb. If detonated, the consequences wouldn’t just affect the Mu family but could drag other families down as well.  

"Yes, Master. The young master used a special channel to send the message," the servant replied solemnly. If he had resorted to unseen methods, it meant the matter was urgent.  

Mu Xiwang nodded. "Very well, bring him to me, but keep it from the patriarch." He knew his eldest grandson wasn’t foolish. Using such means meant he didn’t want his father finding out.  

His son had been blinded by greed. Even if Mu Xiaolin carried a sinister aura, he still valued him. But he failed to consider, how could a boy with such ruthlessness ever remain loyal to the Mu family?  

Mu Lichuan, for the first time, tried using a messenger pigeon - a method his grandfather had taught him after discovering his ying-yang eyes. He wasn’t sure if it would work, but it was worth a try. Soon, a small paper crane fluttered into the distance.  

"Young master, please follow me," an expressionless man said to Mu Lichuan.  

Recognizing the emblem on the man’s clothing, Mu Lichuan knew he was sent by his grandfather and followed without worry. Instead of heading deeper into the Mu estate, they left it entirely, navigating twists, turns, and obstacles before stopping at the heart of a mountain.  

Despite being the Mu family’s secular heir, Mu Lichuan knew little of cultivators’ ways. Staring at the majestic mountain, he was stunned - how had he never known this path led here? Then he remembered something called the mystical barrier and understood.  

"Lichuan." Mu Xiwang smiled faintly at his grandson’s expression.  

Mu Lichuan bowed immediately. "Grandfather..."  

"Lichuan, with your yin-yang eyes, learn more from the Mo family—it will benefit you. As for guiding Qi into the body, I don’t understand it well, but your great-grandfather will teach you," Mu Xiwang encouraged.  

"Thank you, Grandfather." Warmth filled Mu Lichuan’s heart. "First, I must apologize, I shouldn’t have invaded others’ privacy."  

"Oh?" Mu Xiwang raised a brow, signaling him to continue.  

Mu Lichuan produced a memory card. "This contains a conversation between Mu Xiaolin and his mother. Please review it. Afterward, I’ll accept any punishment."  

He knew the Mu family valued privacy and forbade surveillance.  

Mu Xiwang’s face remained neutral as he ordered a subordinate to play the recording. By the end, his expression darkened like storm clouds. "Outrageous! They’re treating our family as a shield!"  

"This paternity test must be falsified!" His voice dripped with menace.  

Rebirth to Erase Dark History Chapter 53 Part 3

    “The orchids you grow are gorgeous. My old man loves flowers, he got one from Old Man Wei and treats it like a treasure. Makes me feel like I’m worth less than a plant.” Chang Jin sighed dramatically.  

    “You are just a roadside weed. How could you compare to an orchid?” Tang Yu couldn’t resist teasing him.  

    “If I’m a weed, then you’re the morning glory growing next to me. We’re a match made in heaven.” Chang Jin grinned shamelessly.  

    “What’s all this about?” Qin Ruiwen looked lost.  

    “No surprise you wouldn’t know. Jiajia’s the ‘perfect child’ template our families’ old men used to lecture us. Having Wei Jing was bad enough, but then they had to add Yang Jiabo to the mix.” Chang Jin’s tone was half-joking, half-serious.  

    “The little boss actually knows Old Man Wei and them?” Qin Rong was shocked. Had I known, I wouldn’t have looked down on him. Anyone praised by those old men must have real skill. 

    “Not exactly. It’s our grandfathers who know the little boss.” Xu Chen glanced at Yang Jiabo. “The dried fish, cured meats, and preserved poultry at Old Man Wei’s place, those were from you, right?”  

    “I’ve sent some before.” Yang Jiabo had given them gifts over time, but he wasn’t sure if Xu Chen meant those specifically.  

    Wei Jing: “They were from Jiajia. Didn’t your family get some too?”  

    Xu Chen: “Next time, send more.”  

    Yang Jiabo: “…”  

    “Jiajia, I heard you were a top student. Don’t tell me you skipped grades like Wei Jing and finished college early?” Meng Fan asked curiously. Most universities weren’t on break yet.  

    Yang Jiabo: “I stopped going to school a long time ago.”  

    Meng Fan: “Why?”  

    “Meng-Three-Year-Old, shut up and eat.” Wei Jing tried to cut him off, but it was too late.  

    “It’s fine. I don’t mind talking about it.” Yang Jiabo smiled faintly. “I dropped out in my third year of middle school.”  

    “What a shame.” Zhang Yunwei’s sympathy held no malice or condescension.  

    “But you were a good student, right? Why drop out so early?” Qin Rong pressed, sensing drama.  

    “Got expelled for fighting.” Yang Jiabo shrugged.  

    “That is a shame.” Qin Rong’s tone carried a hint of schadenfreude.  

    “Jiajia, never took you for the hot-blooded type. But your life now seems great. It’d be even better if you gave me a flower.” Chang Jin grinned shamelessly.  

    “Sure.” Yang Jiabo nodded.  

    “Chang-Five-Year-Old, you’re shameless.” Meng Fan smirked at Yang Jiabo. “I want one too.”  

    Yang Jiabo: “Fine, pick one out yourself later.”  

    Xu Chen: “I don’t need flowers. Just pack me some of whatever tasty stuff you’ve got.”  

    Meng Fan: “Xu Chen, you gluttonous trash panda.”  

    “I’ll take cordyceps and fruit.” Ren Boying joined in.  

    Wei Jing scowled. “You’re all freeloading and packing souvenirs? That’s too much.”  

    Chang Jin: “Jiajia already agreed. Butt out. You’ve probably taken plenty yourself.”  

    Laughter filled the air, smoothly steering the conversation away from Yang Jiabo’s expulsion.  

    Despite occasional tension, the group stayed up until 1 a.m. Chang Jin stuck to Tang Yu like glue, and though she scolded him, she didn’t seem to mind. Meng Fan, drunk, dozed against Ren Boying’s shoulder.  

    Qin Rong, also tipsy, gazed dreamily at Wei Jing, ignoring Yang Jiabo entirely. Qin Ruiwen and Zhang Yunwei were deep in conversation, having forgotten about her.  

    “Wake Meng-Three-Year-Old up. It’s getting chilly.” Xu Chen reached out to shake Meng Fan.  

    “Don’t bother. I’ll carry him back.” Ren Boying scooped Meng Fan up and headed toward their bamboo house.  

    “It’s late. Everyone should rest.” Wei Jing helped Yang Jiabo clean up while urging the others to leave.  

    “Jiajia, let me help before I go.” Tang Yu rolled up her sleeves.  

    “No need! I’ll just tidy up roughly and have someone handle the rest tomorrow.” Yang Jiabo hurriedly stopped her.  

    “I’ll stay and help. The rest of you, go ahead.” Wei Jing shooed them off and worked with Yang Jiabo to clean.  

    An hour later, exhausted, they washed up and slept. The next morning, Yang Jiabo got up early to prepare breakfast, with Wei Jing assisting. Yang Jianjun, an early riser, pitched in when he saw them working.  

    Yang Jiabo made bone broth and congee, steamed buns, flaky layered buns, and soup dumplings, then set out pickled garlic stems, cowpeas, chive flowers, and radish strips in small dishes.  

    Yang Jianjun set up a large table on the bamboo terrace outside while Wei Jing helped serve. Once ready, they went next door to wake the others. After last night’s greasy feast, the light, refreshing breakfast was a welcome change.  

    Xu Chen, the foodie, praised Yang Jiabo’s cooking, especially the tangy pickles. After breakfast, the group visited the courtyard behind Yang Jiabo’s house, marveling at the exquisite orchids.  

    The three days flew by in a haze of eating. The group sampled everything the farm had to offer - livestock from the mountain, crops from the fields, seafood from the water. Qin Rong kept finding excuses to approach Wei Jing, while Meng-Three-Year-Old and Chang-Five-Year-Old deliberately antagonized her.  

    Initially, none of them had high expectations for the small farmstead. But after a few days of clean air, beautiful scenery, delicious food, and deep sleep, they were reluctant to leave.  

    At their departure, Yang Jiabo gifted each of them an orchid, leaving them touched. Yang Jianjun loaded their cars with peaches.  

    Ren Boying bought some cordyceps at a symbolic price. Qin Ruiwen also wanted to purchase some, but Yang Jiabo had too little left to sell. Though displeased, Qin Ruiwen hid it well.  

    The biggest winner was Chang Jin, whose shameless persistence won him a girlfriend. Second was Xu Chen, who emptied Yang Jiabo’s pantry of pickles.  

My Fulang is a Delicate Flower Chapter 6 Part 1

Chapter 6  

Huo Shu carried simple luggage into a room by the fence of the Zhao family, which used to be Zhao Changsui's room.  

The room was small and sparsely furnished. On the table lay a miscellaneous book Zhao Changsui had read eight years ago, a collection of supernatural tales.  

Huo Shu placed his bundle on the table and casually flipped through a few pages. The book had few words and many illustrations, clearly suited for someone who had only attended a private school for two years.  

Though the room had been uninhabited for years, it was spotless - dust-free tables and chairs, with no musty smell, evidently cleaned regularly.  

Huo Shu set the book aside, took out a silver hairpin from his bundle, and murmured to himself:  

"Now I've fulfilled half of your request. What about the other half?"  

At noon, Huo Shu and Zhao’s mother shared a meal in the main hall.  

Zhao’s mother had wanted to prepare a proper feast for Huo Shu, but the family had fallen on hard times in recent years, leaving no stored wine or meat.  

With no time to make a trip to the market, she could only buy a fish from a neighbor and slaughter one of  egg-laying hens. She stewed the fish, made chicken soup, and added some seasonal vegetables - a spread almost as lavish as a New Year’s feast.  

Huo Shu wasn’t picky and ate everything.  

Zhao’s mother, however, barely touched her food, simply watching Huo Shu eat with joy. "This afternoon, Auntie will fetch some good wine. When the sun sets and it cools off, we can drink in the yard and relax."  

"No need for trouble. Going to the city isn’t easy."  

"It’s no trouble. There’s a family in the village that brews and sells wine. No need to go to the city."  

Huo Shu gave a noncommittal hum. "Auntie, do you know who Changsui’s lover was?"  

Zhao’s mother paused, chopsticks mid-air, momentarily confused. "Lover?"  

Then she laughed. "Changsui was still young when he left for conscript labor. He hadn’t even begun matchmaking, there was no lover as you say. Back then, he was naive and just eager to work."  

Huo Shu’s brow twitched. That kid hadn’t been entirely honest.  

"What’s wrong? Did Changsui mention having someone he liked?"  

Huo Shu looked at Zhao’s mother’s swollen eyes. Ten years had passed, who knew what had become of Changsui’s lover? No need to bring up more sorrow.  

He neither confirmed nor denied, changing the subject instead. "I’ll have another bowl of rice."  

"Ah, yes, yes! Auntie will scoop it for you. There’s plenty of rice, eat as much as you want. A big fellow like you needs several bowls!"  

After lunch, Zhao’s mother prepared incense and paper money to visit Zhao Changsui’s father’s grave. Now that Zhao Changsui’s fate was settled, his father’s spirit ought to know.  

Huo Shu followed to pay his respects as well.  

____

"Tao ger, picking scallions? Preparing dinner this early?"  

As the sun softened, Ji Taoyu, having napped, carried a basket to his family’s field.  

His grandfather had come to the village to collect herbs, and Ji Taoyu wanted to prepare dinner early so Huang Yinsheng could eat before returning to the city.  

Seeing fellow villager Yu Sunshi approaching along the path, Ji Taoyu placed the vegetables in his basket, stood up, and greeted her - though his tone was colder than usual.  

"Aunt Sun."  

The woman didn’t notice anything amiss and chattered on. "I heard Physician Huang came to the village today. I just realized we’ve run out of medicine at home, so I’ve come to trouble you again for the same prescription as last time."  

As she spoke, she took some copper coins from her purse to hand to Ji Taoyu.  

Many villagers knew Ji Taoyu had some medical knowledge. When they couldn’t make it to the city and their needs weren’t urgent, they’d ask him to fetch medicine from Huang Yinsheng’s clinic in the city.  

Such errands were common, but villagers sought Ji Taoyu not just for his skills, it was also because he was Huang Yinsheng’s grandson, and through him, the price of the medicine could be cheaper.  

The women and gers of the village especially liked asking him for favors.  

Ji Taoyu had always tacitly obliged.  

But this time, before the woman could hand over the money, he said, "Two doses will cost you 260 copper coins."  

The woman froze. "Did the medicine get more expensive?"  

Last time, one dose was only 100 copper coins, two should’ve been 200. Where did the extra 60 come from?  

"The price has always been this. If Aunt Sun goes to another clinic, it’ll only be higher."  

Aunt Sun quickly asked, "Tao ger, what’s going on?"  

Ji Taoyu replied coolly, "Before, when I took prescriptions from fellow villagers to the clinic, I never thought to profit from my neighbors. The prices were always the lowest possible - below market rate, out of goodwill for our shared home."  

"Yes, yes! The villagers all know and are grateful to the village head’s family."  

During festivals, whenever a family slaughtered pigs or sheep, they’d send meat to the Ji family.  

Ji Taoyu said coldly, "I didn’t do this for gratitude, just for harmony among neighbors. But it seems some people don’t value that goodwill. If so, why should I keep offering kindness?"  

Even a fool could tell this was directed at her. Aunt Sun protested, "Tao ger, what do you mean?"  

"Aunt Sun has always been kind. I see you don’t know the full story. Why not go home and ask Xia ger how he treats his fellow villagers?"  

Ji Taoyu added pointedly, "I hope you get the truth. If it’s just more lies, better not to hear them at all."  

"I haven’t even told my parents yet. If Aunt Sun can persuade Xia ger to give a proper explanation, that’ll be the end of it. But if he insists on deceit, then this weak and useless ger will have to rely on his parents for justice."

Transmigrated As Cannon Fodder To Marry Chapter 96 Part 2

  

   "Lin’er, you’ve offended His Majesty deeply. If this Fifth Prince decides to act on some deathbed decree against you, you’ll be in serious trouble!"  

    "Alright, alright, calm down," Jiang Lin soothed. "The Fifth Prince ascending the throne isn’t a bad thing."  

    Ever since Yue Heng brought him to their wedding banquet last night, Jiang Lin and Wei Yunzhao had their suspicions - especially since the Fifth Prince was nothing like the rumors suggested. Combined with Yue Heng’s prior mention of having already chosen the next heir, it wasn’t hard to guess: that person was the Fifth Prince, Yue Cheng.  

    "What do you mean?" Zhou Chengwang sensed something amiss but couldn’t quite grasp it, his eyes wide with confusion.  

    Jiang Lin said, "Put it this way, how do you know he wasn’t willingly preparing the throne for someone else?"  

    And that "someone else" was clearly the Fifth Prince.  

    "So… from the beginning, the Sixth Prince intended for the Fifth Prince to take the throne?" Zhou Chengwang’s face looked shocked.  

    Jiang Lin nodded with a faint smile. "Most likely. Anyway, it’s a matter between those two brothers, outsiders like use can’t interfere."  

    Zhou Chengwang wanted to argue, this was the imperial throne! The victor would become the most exalted figure in the world. Countless people would kill for this throne, how could it possibly concern just two people?  

    But then again, with the palace now firmly under the Sixth Prince’s control and most court officials aligned with him, the decision of who ascended the throne really did rest with those two brothers - no, more accurately, with the Sixth Prince alone.  

    Seeing Jiang Lin and Wei Yunzhao’s composed expressions, Zhou Chengwang suddenly felt indignant. "You knew all along, didn’t you?" 

    Zhou Chengwang grabbed Jiang Lin’s shoulders and shook him, accusing, “Lin’er, are we still good brothers or not? How could you keep such a big matter from us!”  

    Jiang Lin pushed his hands away. “We only had suspicions after meeting the Fifth Prince last night. Before that, we only knew the Sixth Prince wouldn’t ascend the throne, he never revealed who he intended to push forward.”  

    Zhou Chengwang reluctantly accepted this explanation but remained curious about the Sixth Prince’s motives. “Why doesn’t the Sixth Prince just become emperor himself? He’s young, smart, and capable. He’d clearly make a wise ruler.”  

    Jiang Lin said, “Perhaps there’s something more important than the throne for him to do.”  

    Zhou Chengwang couldn’t think of anything more important than the imperial throne.  

    Jiang Lin kindly gave him a hint. “Regicide.”  

    Zhou Chengwang shuddered in fright, nearly falling off his chair.  

    “Th-that’s far too bold.”  

    Jiang Lin asked, “You’ve heard about Concubine Li’s story, haven’t you?”  

    Zhou Chengwang nodded dumbly.  

    Jiang Lin explained, “The Sixth Prince has lain low for years, pretending to be a sickly weakling all this time, all to avenge Concubine Li. Because in his heart, she was far more important than the throne.”  

    To many people, Concubine Li merely gave birth to the Sixth Prince and never raised him, hardly worth abandoning the throne for revenge.  

    But to Yue Heng, his mother’s inability to raise him was forced upon her, and she never had the chance. Yet Concubine Li never forgot her child, doing everything in her power before her death to pave his way. Under those circumstances, it was all she could do.  

    Yue Heng was a man of deep sentiment, clear in gratitude and grudges. He knew exactly what he wanted.  

    After hearing Jiang Lin’s analysis, Zhou Chengwang felt both admiration and pity for the Sixth Prince.  

    Jiang Lin didn’t share the sentiment. “We can’t bring the dead back to life, and that’s regrettable. But we’ve done all we can, and we still remember them. That’s enough.”  

    Zhou Chengwang’s emotions shifted quickly. He slung an arm over Jiang Lin’s shoulders. “Little Lin’er, you’ve got quite the clear head.”  

    Jiang Lin took a sip of porridge and gestured for Zhou Chengwang to look aside. When Zhou Chengwang turned, he saw Wei Yunzhao staring straight at him, his eyes practically spelling out the words “asking for a beating.”  

    Zhou Chengwang instinctively retracted his arm and immediately bolted, fleeing as if chased by a dog - just like when he’d arrived.  

    Jiang Lin found it amusing. He beckoned to Wei Yunzhao. “Husband, jealous?”  

    “Yes,” Wei Yunzhao admitted shamelessly, scooting his chair closer. “Wife, I’m eating vinegar.”  

[吃醋 (chī cù): lit. to eat vinegar; fig. to be jealous (romantic context).

    Jiang Lin nodded. “I noticed. And?”  

    Wei Yunzhao pointed to his cheek. “I need my wife’s comfort to cheer up.”  

    Jiang Lin scooped a spoonful of porridge and fed it to Wei Yunzhao, who obediently ate it but seemed puzzled by the gesture.  

    Jiang Lin explained, “I’ve eaten from this bowl, and this is my spoon. So, in a way, this counts as an indirect kiss.”  

    Wei Yunzhao pondered for a moment, then quickly grasped the idea and took it further - he picked up a grape, bit it in half, and fed the other half to Jiang Lin.  

    Just as Jiang Lin was about to praise his quick learning, Wei Yunzhao leaned in with the other half of a grape between his teeth, his intention unmistakable.  

    Jiang Lin glanced around and noticed the maids had already discreetly vanished, tactfully giving them privacy for their meal-time affection.  

    How could they waste such consideration? Jiang Lin turned and caught the other half of the grape with his lips, their noses bumping in the process.  

    Lunch took far longer than expected. By the time they left, their lips were red and slightly swollen - proof of either excessive force or prolonged kissing.  

    The maids watched their retreating figures, whispering in admiration and excitement, “The young master and his wife are so loving.”  

    The affectionate couple, however, felt a bit embarrassed. Walking around with such obvious evidence of daytime mischief was rather mortifying. 

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 159 Part 2

    Another clear, sunny day. Once the mule cart entered Fenggu Town, it slowed to a walk. Shen Xuanqing, who had been sitting all this time, jumped down to lead the mule toward Zhiyun Embroidery Workshop.  

    Lu Gu and Wei Lanxiang remained on the cart, each holding a basket - one filled with handkerchiefs, the other padded with thick straw and holding ten chicken eggs and ten duck eggs.  

    Eggs were precious, and Wei Lanxiang had guarded them carefully the whole way, afraid they might break. Now, lifting the cloth to check, she saw they were all intact, worth all the straw she’d stuffed inside.  

    “We’re here, Mother.” Shen Xuanqing stopped in front of the embroidery workshop, helping Lu Gu and Wei Lanxiang down. He didn’t go in, saying, “After you sell the eggs, remember to head to Butcher Zhao’s place. I’ll meet you there once I’m done.”  

    “Got it, go on.” Wei Lanxiang waved him off before walking into the workshop with Lu Gu, basket in hand.  

    This time, there was also a bamboo cage of rabbits on the cart, meant for delivery to the brothel. Without lingering, Shen Xuanqing led the mule away.  

    Having visited the embroidery workshop twice before, Lu Gu was familiar with the clerks and the plump middle-aged owner behind the counter. Without a word, he set his basket down and took out the handkerchiefs for inspection.  

    “Hmm, not bad.” The owner, Sun Yaofu, knew embroidery well. He could even stitch a few patterns himself.  

    “Uncle Sun, do you still want the tassels? I made some more.” Lu Gu pulled a few from his basket. He’d sold some last time and brought more this visit.  

    Sun Yaofu examined them and nodded. “These are good. I’ll take them all.”  

    Whether handkerchiefs or tassels, skill and care were evident in the work. Though Lu Gu’s tassels followed common designs, their neat craftsmanship ensured they’d sell.  

    Ten handkerchiefs sold for forty copper coins, and ten tassels for fifty copper coins. The colorful tassels, still priced at five copper coins each, hadn’t been undervalued. When he’d hawked them on the street before, he’d priced everything cheaply out of fear they wouldn’t sell. But with the embroidery workshop as a steady outlet, he now earned a few extra coins.  

    Tucking the ninety copper coins into his pocket and bidding the owner farewell, Lu Gu left with Wei Lanxiang.  

    His eyes brimmed with happiness, and even Wei Lanxiang sighed beside him. “They say learning a trade makes earning easier. I never had a proper skill, but you’ll have a better future now.”  

    Lu Gu, never one with smooth words, didn’t know how to respond. But with money in his pocket, he spotted a vendor selling pastries ahead and said, “Mother, let me buy you a crispy oil cake.”  

    Wei Lanxiang beamed. “How thoughtful! Then I’ll share in your good fortune.”  

    Pleased by the praise, Lu Gu, having picked up a few sweet phrases from Ji Qiuyue, replied, “We’ll share good fortune together.”  

    Wei Lanxiang laughed heartily. “Yes, yes! Together it is!”  

    The two cheerfully approached the stall. Though they’d eaten before leaving, Lu Gu wasn’t hungry but still spent three copper coins on a crispy oil cake for Wei Lanxiang. The cake was small, Shen Xuanqing could finish it in three bites.  

    As they walked on, Wei Lanxiang nibbled on the cake while Lu Gu called out, “Eggs! Fresh chicken eggs! Duck eggs!”  

    The sunny day brought many people to the streets. The two happily strolled, selling as they went, before turning onto another long street at the far corner.  

    Lu Gu, facing forward, didn’t notice the person entering Zhiyun Embroidery Workshop behind him.  

    Sun Yaofu was busy organizing handkerchiefs and tassels, arranging embroidered ones on top for display, when a familiar voice called out “Brother Sun!”, and his expression brightened at once.  

    It was Xu Yanrong, a childhood friend. Accepting a jar of wine from him, Sun Yaofu invited him to the back room.  

    Xu Yanrong smiled as they walked. “Now that things at home are settled, Yuehua mentioned wanting a few handkerchiefs. I figured I’d visit you for old times’ sake, it’s been years. Last time I returned, it was too rushed to even share a drink.”  

    Over a decade ago, the Xu family had moved to the prefectural city to open a small shop, and Xu Yanrong had gone with them, rarely returning to Fenggu Town since.  

    Sun Yaofu laughed. “No trouble at all! If sister-in-law wants some, pick whichever you like later, take them as gifts.”  

    “Then I’ll thank you in advance.” Xu Yanrong didn’t stand on ceremony.  

    After finishing the jar of wine and reminiscing about the past, the sky had darkened. Before leaving, Xu Yanrong didn’t forget to pick two handkerchiefs for his wife.  

    Coincidentally, new handkerchiefs had arrived that day, so Sun Yaofu laid out a selection for him to choose from.  

    But when Xu Yanrong spotted one with a butterfly frolicking among peonies, his smile froze, and he stood rooted in place.  

____

    Come spring, the Shen family planned to raise piglets. Taking advantage of the recent good weather, Shen Xuanqing and Shen Yaoqing were mixing mud and straw in the backyard to build a pigpen. The yellow mud and rice stalks formed a large heap, and for the past two days, anyone stepping into the backyard left muddy footprints.  

    After lunch and a short rest, the brothers returned to work. The strong sun made thick clothing stifling, and laboring under it left them sweaty and thirsty. Lu Gu added two ladles of water to the clay stove’s pot and set a clean wooden basin on the nearby table. Once boiled and cooled, it would be ready to drink.  

    After feeding the stove fire, he wasn’t in the mood for embroidery. Glancing at Shen Xuanqing working in the distance, he headed over to see if he could help.  

    Wei Lanxiang and Shen Yan were washing the thick winter clothes for all seven family members and hadn’t come over today.  

    Guaizi was romping around the spacious backyard. Earlier, he’d tried burrowing into the mud pile, his front paws already sinking in when Shen Xuanqing smacked his fat rear twice to drive him off. In the depths of winter, getting caked in yellow mud would make washing him a hassle.  

    Seeing him charge over now, the dried mud on his paws crumbling into dust, Lu Gu tried to dodge, but how could he outrun Guaizi? His legs were soon stamped with several dusty paw prints.  

    Just as he was about to scold Guaizi with a poke to the head, the dog’s ears suddenly pricked up, and he barked toward the gate. The other dogs joined in - a stranger had arrived.  

Rebirth Married The Control group Fulang Chapter 138 Part 1

Chapter 138

    Ruili stepped forward casually and took a seat at the desk with ease. Seeing a finely dressed young man suddenly sit before him, Ji Zhexi slightly curled his fingers, set down his brush, and asked in confusion, “Does the young master have something to instruct me?”  

    From afar, Ruili had already noticed this man’s striking appearance, but now, up close and meeting his gaze face to face, he couldn’t help but inwardly sigh: Tsk, he’s even more handsome up close!

    “Is there something on my face?” Ruili coughed dryly, averting his eyes. Was he really so distracted by good looks? He refocused on the matter at hand: “Do you recognize me?”

    Ji Zhexi nodded lightly. “The young master of Liufang Bookshop.”  

    As expected, Ruili thought.  

    “You seem honest enough, so I won’t beat around the bush either. From now on, you needn’t go to such lengths. A scholar should focus on the imperial exams. Rather than resorting to underhanded methods, wouldn’t it be better to devote all your efforts to your studies? With some luck, you might earn an official rank sooner, surely that’s better than relying on others?”  

    Ji Zhexi agreed. “The young master speaks wisely. Indeed, self-reliance is far more dependable than depending on others.”  

    Good-looking people really are more reasonable, Ruili thought, thinking this was the easiest admirer he’d ever dealt with. Just as he was about to speak, the other man continued amiably, “However, I had no idea Young Master Zhang was so warm-hearted as to discuss such matters with me. When you say I needn’t go to such lengths… what exactly do you mean?”  

    Ruili frowned. Had all that praise just now been wasted? Was he really going to play dumb? “You know exactly what you’ve been doing, don’t pretend otherwise!”  

    Ji Zhexi replied, “Forgive my bluntness, but I truly don’t know.”  

    “Hey, what’s wrong with you?!” Ruili took a deep breath. “I’m giving you good advice, and instead of listening, you’re twisting my words?! Fine, don’t blame me for not sparing your dignity!”  

    “As you wish.”  

    Ruili shot to his feet, planting his hands on his hips. “You’ve been showing up wherever I go, do you think I’m too stupid to notice your schemes? First at Yinqiu Tower, then at the cloth shop this morning, and now here at the bookstore this afternoon! Yinqiu Tower might’ve been a coincidence, but today, both places are our Zhang family’s businesses! And you still act like some innocent little cabbage!”  

    With that, he glared and added, “Devious and cunning!”  

    Ji Zhexi tilted his chin slightly, watching the young master rant. “So, the young master believes I’ve been deliberately appearing to catch your attention and win your favor?”  

    “Aha! You said it! Finally admitting the truth, eh?”  

    A few scholars nearby, drawn by the commotion, cast odd looks at Ji Zhexi. “Scholar Ji, how could you? You always seemed so upright and principled, who’d have thought you were just aiming to curry favor with the wealthy?”  

    “Plenty of poor scholars have such ambitions. And with Ji Zhexi’s looks, no wonder. Even Teacher Bai’s daughter has shown him favor, but he refused, claiming he wanted to focus on the exams and not hold her back. Turns out he was setting his sights even higher!”  

    “Wishful thinking. If Zhang Ruili were so easy to win over, he wouldn’t still be unmarried.”  

    Ji Zhexi stood up unhurriedly, instantly towering over the fuming Ruili. Unfazed by the murmurs, he calmly explained, “The Zhang family is the wealthiest in Siyang, second to none. Young Master Zhang’s elder brother is a newly minted jinshi and an influential official. It’s no surprise admirers flock to Young Master Zhang like fish in a river, and it’s understandable to suspect ulterior motives. However…”  

    “Young Master Zhang has misunderstood. I had no intention of forcing myself into your sight, it’s simply that my family is impoverished.”  

    “My parents suffered chronic illnesses and were bedridden for years. Though they’ve since passed, their medical debts remain. As a scholar preparing for the exams, I’ve had to take odd jobs during breaks - partly to repay debts, partly to save travel funds for the exams.”  

    Hearing this tragic tale, Ruili’s face flushed with embarrassment, but he wasn’t so easily swayed. “It’s commendable that you’re working to support yourself, but why only at Zhang family businesses? What a coincidence!”  

    “The Zhang family owns numerous business, and their trade guild handles most hiring. I had little choice.” Ji Zhexi called for the shopkeeper. “I’ve been working at Liufang Bookshop since last year, copying texts and writing calligraphy.”  

    The shopkeeper, though reluctant to offend the young master, answered truthfully. “Scholar Ji has been with us for a long time. Initially, he submitted poems. When Young Master Ruijin was still here, he praised Scholar Ji’s calligraphy. Last year, after the young master passed the exams, business boomed, and we were short-handed, that’s when we hired Scholar Ji to copy books.”  

    Ruili’s frown deepened.  

Rebirth of the Useless Young Master’s Counterattack Chapter 35

Chapter 35: So-Called Family Bonds

Mu Lichuan was somewhat surprised that his father would say such a thing. "You’re expelling me from the Mu family?" His voice was light, yet carried a profound undertone.  

"What? With the way you’ve bullied your younger brother and disrespected your mother, shouldn’t you be driven out of the Mu family?" Mu Changnian was particularly furious with his eldest son’s behavior. The elders had already advised him to placate them, if they were provoked again, who would be left to clean up the mess?  

Originally, Mu Lichuan had no intention of refuting his father’s words, but upon hearing him mention "mother," his stubbornness flared. "My mother has long been dead. What ‘mother’ are you talking about?" 

"Father, if you want to marry this woman, I won’t oppose it. But don’t expect me to call her ‘mother.’" After saying this, the young man turned and left. If he stayed any longer, he might do something irrational.  

"Outrageous! Absolutely outrageous!" Mu Changnian’s face flushed red with anger. How dare his eldest son walk out on them like this?  

Bai Ping, seeing the situation, finally breathed a sigh of relief. At least the master of the house was still on their side—otherwise, she and her son would have no standing in the Mu family at all.  

"Master, don’t be angry with him. This child… he probably resents me because of his mother’s death." Bai Ping glanced at the corpses and felt a wave of disgust. Their deaths were horrifying, as if they had been drained of something, their eyes wide open, as if dying with unresolved regret.  

Mu Changnian took a deep breath before saying, "Ah Ping, take Xiaolin upstairs and comfort him. I’ll handle these bodies."  

His second son was a genius - a rare ice-attribute spiritual root talent. As long as the dark energy inside him could be extracted, he would still be able to cultivate. And as his father, Mu Changnian would gain immense prestige. Let’s see who would dare look down on him then.  

So Bai Ping helped her trembling son upstairs. Such a gruesome sight was best avoided to prevent psychological trauma. At the same time, she knew that the Mu family’s cultivators might try to kill her son. She had to find a way to contact that person. Even if they had the Mu family’s protection now, who knew how they would treat the two of them later?  

Indeed, Bai Ping had always known that the child was not Mu Changnian’s, nor was he even hers. As for who the boy’s real mother was, she had no idea. Years ago, that person had sought her out and entrusted the child to her care, instructing her to integrate him into the Mu family. The arrangement would last no more than thirteen years, after which he would return for the boy. He had also implanted a protective energy within the child to ensure his survival in times of danger.  

Mu Changnian felt somewhat comforted that they still obeyed him. At least they still regarded him as the head of the family, unlike his eldest son, who was truly infuriating.  

Mu Xiaolin was still terrified. "Mom… did I really kill those people?" Even though he had visited the graveyard, it was only to strengthen himself, perhaps even gather some ghosts to suppress Mu Lichuan. But he had killed people… without even realizing it.  

"Child, they deserved to die. If you hadn’t killed them, they would have killed you." Bai Ping’s expression was ruthless. If they didn’t act decisively, others would surely harm them.  

A glimmer of hope flickered in Mu Xiaolin’s eyes. "Mom… I won’t go to jail for killing them, right? They really deserved it?"  

"Of course they did. And you won’t go to jail, you’re still young. The Mu family will take care of everything." Bai Ping gently pulled her son into an embrace.  

What they didn’t know was that their every move was being monitored by Mu Lichuan.