Rebirth to Erase Dark History Chapter 55 Part 2

"Since Xiaowen is a martyr, the government will issue official notices. Usually, officials will accompany the family to receive the martyr’s remains. I’ll coordinate to ensure Xiaowen is brought home with dignity." Xiong Yuan’s eyes reddened as he spoke, he had been close to Li Wen.  

"That child was closest to his grandmother. Let him be buried beside her," Eldest Aunt said through tears.  

Second Aunt hesitated. "According to tradition, those who die unnaturally shouldn’t be buried in the village."  

Eldest Uncle glared. "Who dares stop us? The Li family isn’t to be trifled with."  

"Li Wen’s case is special. The villagers aren’t unreasonable, there’s no need to worry," Second Uncle said, his voice trembling.  

The group debated how to arrange Li Wen’s funeral, insisting it be grand and conducted according to village customs. After settling the major points, they divided tasks and ironed out details.  

Then Yang Jiabo, who had been silent, spoke up. "I’ll handle the tombstone and grave markers. I’ll also prepare the banquet dishes and menu. The restaurant staff can help, and villagers can assist. That should cover it."  

"Jiajia, do you know how to arrange these things?" Eldest Uncle asked skeptically.  

"It’s just buying things. What’s there to not know?" Yang Jiabo replied flatly. "It’s settled. You all discuss the rest. You must be hungry, I’ll arrange dinner at the restaurant."  

With that, Yang Jiabo went to the restaurant and had the chef prepare two tables of food. Then he arranged lodging for Second Uncle’s family. Once the discussions ended, he led everyone to eat.  

After the meal, the group dispersed. There was still much to prepare in the coming days. Before leaving, Li Guizhen sought out Yang Jiabo, wanting to say something, but seeing his state, she held back and left.  

The next day, Yang Jianjun drove Second Uncle’s family home. Preparations had to be made there, and someone needed to stay behind. The Li sisters would handle the funeral supplies. Eldest Uncle and Third Uncle would notify relatives. The family busied themselves with arrangements.  

Yang Jiabo stayed at the farm in the morning, with Yang Qing sticking to him like a shadow after taking leave. Yang Jiabo posted a notice at the restaurant: due to a family bereavement, it would close for two days. He finalized the banquet menu with the chef, appearing composed. In the afternoon, he went to buy the tombstone, with Yang Jianjun accompanying him, uneasy about letting him go alone.  

The following day, Second Uncle was stunned when Yang Jiabo arrived with a large group - craftsmen, monks for chanting scriptures, and others. Soon after, two expensive tombstones and grave construction materials were delivered.  

Yang Jiabo had secured the finest tombstone and urn for Li Wen. To avoid criticism, he also replaced their grandmother’s tombstone so Li Wen’s wouldn’t stand out, while refurbishing her grave.  

A master selected an auspicious time, and the craftsmen meticulously renovated the grandmother’s grave. Beside it, they prepared a smaller empty plot, waiting for Li Wen’s "return." Yang Jiabo spared no expense on materials. Chickens, ducks, cows, pigs, and sheep arrived in batches for the funeral feast.  

Second Uncle and Aunt were alarmed by Yang Jiabo’s spending, repeatedly objecting. Even Xiong Yuan, who had come to visit, was dumbfounded.  

As Yang Jiabo bustled about, Second Uncle pulled Yang Jianjun aside. "Jianjun, how much is all this costing?"  

Yang Jianjun reassured him, "Don’t worry. Jiajia said he’d cover it."  

"No, no, we can’t let Jiajia pay for this," Second Uncle insisted.  

Yang Jianjun sighed. "Jiajia blames himself for helping Li Wen enlist. Let him do this, maybe it’ll ease his guilt."  

"Talk to him. It’s not his fault. He meant well, who knew that foolish boy would sacrifice himself saving others? Tell him to stop tormenting himself. We don’t blame him, and neither would Li Wen. It wasn’t his mistake." Second Uncle’s voice cracked.  

"You know how Jiajia is. He won’t listen right now. Let him be. Besides, it’s his own money, he can spend it as he likes."  

"Ah, these kids…" Second Uncle trailed off but still sought out Yang Jiabo. "Jiajia, this isn’t your fault. Li Wen chose to save that person, it had nothing to do with you. Don’t blame yourself."  

"Second Uncle, you don’t understand. If Second Cousin hadn’t enlisted, he’d still be living his ordinary life."  

"You fool! What else could a boy like him have done? Before he left for the military, he was so excited he couldn’t sleep. He loved the idea of being a soldier, but rural recruits need connections. You helped fulfill his dream. He was grateful, he kept saying he’d bring you wild game and Sichuan candies when he returned. He’d thank you, not blame you. Let him rest in peace."  

"Second Uncle, thank you." Yang Jiabo’s voice was hoarse. "And I’m sorry."  

"Stubborn child! You’ve done nothing to apologize for." Second Uncle was exasperated, tempted to slap sense into him.  

Money flowed like water, but Yang Jiabo’s guilt didn’t lessen. He lay awake night after night. Yang Jianjun worried but could only wait for him to come to terms with it himself.  

Time flew. Li Wen’s ashes were returned, and Yang Jiabo met the officer who had called him - Chen Junxian, his drill instructor from elementary school. Recognizable at once, Chen was now a lieutenant colonel. Yang Jiabo never imagined their reunion would be under such circumstances.  

Three people accompanied Li Wen’s remains: Chen, Li Wen’s comrade, and his company commander. Chen carried the urn, the commander held his medals and martyr certificate, and the comrade brought his personal effects.  

From Chen’s account, the family learned he had been the one to recognize Li Wen’s potential. As the rescue mission’s commander, he deeply regretted Li Wen’s death, but no one blamed him.  

Li Wen had been stationed in Sichuan. A nearby county had suffered a once-in-200-years flood, trapping nearly 100,000 people. His unit was dispatched for rescue operations.  

Li Wen, quick and strong, saved many. But nature was unpredictable. While rescuing a mother and child, a sudden surge swept him away. He shielded them, giving them his chance to live.  

Recovering his body was a miracle. Another soldier who drowned saving others was never found.  

The rescued mother and child came to pay respects. The five-year-old boy’s mother insisted he honor Li Wen as a godfather, pledging annual offerings - a rural tradition and her deepest gratitude.  

Others Li Wen had saved sent letters, banners, or money. Second Uncle and Aunt accepted the tokens but refused the money - not out of pride, but to protect Li Wen’s honor.  

The funeral was grand. Eldest Aunt hired every dragon-lion dance and clam-shell performance troupe in the city. Relatives flooded in. Li Wen was buried beside his grandmother on the hill facing Second Uncle’s home, visible from their roof.  

At the funeral, Second Aunt collapsed from grief. Even if she doted on her younger children, Li Wen was still her son. Li Yan knelt before his portrait, sobbing. "I always said you were annoying! Why did you have to play hero? You weren’t cut out for it! You left so easily, what about Mom and Dad? I’m just a daughter, supporting them was your job as the eldest! You idiot! Come back! I hate you, why am I crying? This is all your fault!"  

It was the family’s first funeral for a younger member. The sorrow was palpable. The turnout was massive - the Li family was large, with in-laws, sworn relatives, and cousins beyond counting. City officials and military representatives attended. Though rural burials were technically restricted, local authorities turned a blind eye.  

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 163 Part 2

    Du Lianhua had told him that the Shen family still made a living farming and hunting, selling pork and rabbit meat. They had even built a spacious house where they raised chickens, ducks, and rabbits. People said they had hauled out so much manure for the fields that next year’s harvest was sure to be bountiful.  

    Whenever the Shen family was mentioned, Lu Wen feigned disinterest, but he never interrupted Du Lianhua. There was no other reason - each time he heard about them, he felt reaffirmed in his decision not to marry into that family. In the Li family, with maids and servants attending to her, life was far more comfortable than being a laborer. Otherwise, tasks like plowing, weeding, and hauling manure would have fallen on him.  

    As for Lu Gu, with his weak and timid nature, barely able to speak up, if not for stumbling into this marriage, he might never have found a family. Thinking this way soothed him slightly. The matter of the substituted marriage was his fault, but looking at it now, he had practically done Lu Gu a favor by securing him a family.  

    But what he truly thought, no one else could know.  

    Luo Biao had recently begun making a name for himself in the brothel, no longer needing to toil as a lowly guard. At night, to prevent disturbances or escapes, he still had to stay alert, but now things were easier. When Shen Xuanqing came to find him, he was in his room drinking alone, humming a flirtatious tune he’d picked up in the brothel. A brazier warmed the room as he sat cross-legged at the low table, wrapped in thick clothing, cozy and content, savoring his wine with quiet delight.  

    He welcomed Shen Xuanqing inside, pouring him a cup and saying with a smile, “Brother Shen, your timing is perfect. I was just thinking of resting today and visiting you tomorrow, never expected you’d come today.”  

    Without waiting for Shen Xuanqing to ask, his cheerful expression grew as he continued, “The Li family has been quite lively lately. Every day, at least two or three doctors come and go - some for pregnancy care, others for… unspeakable diseases. It’s gotten so bad the old madam fell ill from rage and worry, forcing them to call yet another doctors.”  

    In just a few words, he revealed much. Shen Xuanqing wasn’t surprised. If not for the Li family’s troubles keeping Lu Wen occupied, Du Lianhua wouldn’t have been turned away and resorted to targeting Lu Gu instead.  

    Luo Biao didn’t beat around the bush, lowering his voice as he said, “I was right, Miss Yu has a nasty disease, and she passed it to Li Mingshan.”  

    He drained half his cup, wiped his mouth, and chuckled. “Miss Yu was quite the charmer. Knowing Li Mingshan loved flowery poetry and pretentious elegance, she played along, ensnaring him completely. Pity her luck ran out with this illness. Otherwise, I reckon Li Mingshan would’ve bought her freedom by now.”  

    To gather information, one had to show willingness. Seeing Luo Biao finish his drink, Shen Xuanqing refilled it silently, urging him to continue with a look.  

    “How severe Li Mingshan’s condition is remains unclear. The errand boy I spoke to doesn’t interact much with the master’s personal servants. All I know is Li Mingshan has been bedridden for seven or eight days. As for Lu Wen, the boy saw him from afar. Both he and Luo Hongchou are pregnant, but while Li Mingshan was still carousing in the brothel, the two often crossed paths in the rear garden. Who knows what was said, but Lu Wen burst into tears, and Luo Hongchou, the fierce one shoved him to the ground. They say he started bleeding immediately, but the baby was saved.”  

    Luo Biao clinked his cup against Shen Xuanqing’s. He had no fondness for social climbers like Lu Wen, and Li Mingshan’s arrogance toward the Shen family, despite knowing of Lu Wen’s prior engagement, disgusted him. Now that both were suffering, he couldn’t help but feel a sense of vindication. Fate worked in mysterious ways, Lu Wen’s near-miscarriage wasn’t their doing, just his own bad luck.  

    “The Li family is in chaos, even neglecting their gold and jade shop.” Luo Biao tossed a peanut into his mouth. “Such diseases aren’t easily cured. If things go poorly, half his life might be forfeit.”  

    With that, a weight lifted from Shen Xuanqing’s mind. Li Mingshan was truly hopeless, now he needn’t waste any more attention on him or the Li family. Refilling their cups, he asked, “Do you know of the Xu family in town? A man named Xu Yanrong.”  

    “The Xu family…” Luo Biao murmured, thinking. “You mean that Xu elder who returned from the prefectural city?”  

    Shen Xuanqing often visited Fenggu Town to sell game, occasionally noting the restaurants and wealthy households. He hadn’t heard much of the Xu family before, nor the name Xu Yanrong, suggesting the man had only recently returned from the prefectural city. He nodded. “Likely him.”  

    Luo Biao shrugged. “If it’s him, I don’t know much. A while back, passing East Street, I saw Xu Mansion bustling with maids and servants cleaning and tidying. Out of curiosity, I asked around, but all I learned was that he’d grown old, handed his business to his son, and retired here with his wife to enjoy his remaining years.”  

    “East Street…” Shen Xuanqing lowered his gaze in thought. Since the man wasn’t a brothel patron, Luo Biao wouldn’t know him. He might as well go see for himself.  

    “Right, East Street. The Xu family’s gate now has a large new plaque, you’ll recognize it at once.” Luo Biao was illiterate, but he knew Shen Xuanqing could read.  

    “Brother Shen, leaving so soon?” Luo Biao tried to delay him.  

    Without ceremony, Shen Xuanqing said, “If you’re free tomorrow, come for a meal. I’ll slaughter two fat rabbits, slice the meat thin, and we’ll try a new way of eating them.”  

    Seeing no reason to refuse, Luo Biao agreed heartily.  

    After leaving the alley, Shen Xuanqing headed straight for East Street, where he spotted the renovated Xu Mansion. As he pondered how to meet Xu Yanrong, he noticed a middle-aged man in fine brocade robes climbing the mansion's steps, his face lined with sorrow and anxiety. The gatekeepers called out, “Master!”  

    “Master Xu!” Shen Xuanqing hurried to the gate, calling out to the man. Judging by age and bearing, this had to be Xu Yanrong. Fortune had smiled on him today.  

    Xu Yanrong turned, eyeing the stranger. “You are?”  

    Shen Xuanqing smiled. “This humble one is a hunter from Qingxi Village. Hearing of your return, I came to ask if your family might fancy some wild game.”  

    Burdened with worries, Xu Yanrong waved a sleeve impatiently. “Be off. My family has no taste for such fare.”  

    Shen Xuanqing climbed two steps. Though standing lower, his tall frame lent him presence. Keeping his voice low, he said, “Ye Yuzhen was my late mother-in-law.”

My Fulang is a Delicate Flower Chapter 11 Part 2

The sudden turn left Yuan Huiru stunned. "You, you’re serious?"  

"Yes."  

Her hesitant expression melted into a smile. "Good. That’s good."  

She nodded repeatedly. "You have such a kind heart. I’m so happy."  

Tears welled in her eyes. "When the weather clears, we’ll fix up the house. You can live here properly from now on."  

"By year’s end, I’ll buy more land—no, whatever you prefer. If you want to farm, I’ll get more fields. If you’d rather work in town or start a business, that’s fine too!"  

Seeing her excitement as she planned their future, Huo Shu felt a pang of emotion.  

He recalled how Zhao Changsui, in the army, often spoke of missing his parents. When he learned Huo Shu had lost his own, Zhao Changsui had said, "Then my parents will be yours too."  

"There’s no rush for that. We should first invite the village elders to witness the adoption."  

Yuan Huiru agreed. "Yes, I’ll go ask them. We’ll need the village head to register it officially. There’s much to do."  

She hurried toward the door, then paused at the sight of the heavier rain. "Silly me, everyone’s preparing meals now, it’s not the right time. I’ll make lunch first, then go invite them."  

Huo Shu reassured her there was no hurry.  

The autumn rain lingered. By afternoon, the eaves of the Ji family home dripped steadily.  

Water pooled in the courtyard, forming a shallow layer.  

"Uncle, Aunt, it’s getting late. I should return home to handle some matters. In a couple of days, we’ll host a banquet, I hope you’ll both come to celebrate."  

Ji Yangzong said, "Leaving so soon? The rain’s heavy. Why not wait until it lightens?"  

"The village isn’t far, and the rain doesn’t bother me. But there’s much to prepare lately. Some of my fellow scholars also passed the exams, I must prepare gifts to congratulate them."  

Seeing his insistence, Ji Yangzong didn’t press further. "Then let me see you out."  

"Where’s Taoyu?"  

After the meal, the ger and Huang Manjing had gone to the kitchen to clean up and hadn’t returned. You Lingxiao couldn’t help but ask.  

Ji Yangzong had assumed You Lingxiao came to discuss the marriage. Yet he hadn’t mentioned it at all.  

Ji Yangzong had planned to bring it up himself, but before he could, You Lingxiao announced his departure.  

This, coupled with now asking for Taoyu to see him off, soured Ji Yangzong’s mood.  

"The rain’s heavy, and Xiao Taozi feels the cold. He caught a chill recently and has already gone to rest. Should I call him out to see you off?"  

You Lingxiao quickly declined. "No need, Uncle. Taoyu should rest properly. It wouldn’t do for him to fall ill again."  

"Very well."  

Ji Yangzong saw him out, his steps brisk with suppressed displeasure upon returning.  

"Now that he’s earned his rank, he’s certainly changed. Too busy to stay long. It’s been days since he passed the exams, and only today does he come to share the news. And what banquet at home requires a newly minted scholar’s attention? His uncles would’ve arranged everything."  

He’d been here all this time without mentioning the marriage, yet constantly sought Ji Taoyu’s company - quite the opportunist.  

"Between the academy, relatives, and banquets hosted by the magistrate’s office for new scholars, it’s natural for You Erlang to be busy," Huang Manjing soothed. "He probably doesn’t want to rush the marriage talk. At the banquet in a few days, with both families present, it’ll be the perfect time to announce it. Why rush now?"  

"It’s not that I’m eager to marry Taoyu off. I’d be happy if he stayed home forever, but that’s unrealistic. It's great if we can avoid taxes under a scholar’s exemption this year. If not, it’s fine. We’ve paid them every other year, we’ll manage."  

Ji Yangzong’s expression softened slightly at his wife’s words. "I just worry things might change at this critical juncture. Without a clear stance from the You family, though Taoyu is still young, he can’t wait indefinitely. And after what happened to him recently, I’ve been restless at night."  

Huang Manjing said, "You’ve watched that boy grow up. And I’ve seen how he treats Taoyu, there’s affection between them. Erlang wouldn’t discard him just because he’s earned his rank."  

"Who can say for certain? We’ll see. In a few days, when the village gathers, we’ll know whether this marriage will proceed."  

Just as Ji Yangzong’s mood eased, a laborer’s voice came from outside: "Village head, the Zhao family’s Yuan niangzi asks you to come over."  

"What for? In this rain?"  

Ji Yangzong called back.  

"She said it’s for an adoption ceremony. She wants you to bear witness."  

"Adoption?" Ji Yangzong’s brow furrowed, recalling Huo Shu’s earlier visit. "I’d better go see."  

The autumn rain brought a biting chill. Rainy days were usually slow.  

After pestering Huang Manjing to make him a warming mutton soup for dinner, Ji Taoyu burrowed into his room. Wrapped in a thick quilt, he lay on his bed flipping through a medical text he hadn’t finished days before.  

But his mind wasn’t on the pages.  

Seeing You Lingxiao today, Ji Taoyu noted he’d grown even more handsome. They’d spoken more than usual, he should’ve been happy. Yet he wasn’t.  

In the past, when You Lingxiao returned to the village on breaks, he’d visit. His parents never barred them from meeting - once inside, they could share tea and snacks. But never before had they lingered through a meal.  

Yet despite the rare chance to talk at length, something felt off. Ji Taoyu sensed a change in You Lingxiao since passing the exams - less humble, less courteous. Or was it just his imagination?  

At the table, You Lingxiao had said, "Lately, many merchants in town seek my calligraphy, sending invitations. Even the owner of Shili Cloth offered one. Their silk is fine, and I thought to bring you some. But they’re just merchants, beneath my association. I’ll buy you silk myself later."  

And: "Autumn brings many literary gatherings in town. I’ll take you to see the excitement. Many officials attend, it’ll broaden your horizons. I’ve prepared poems for you to study in advance. Leave those medical books aside."  

His words had been grandiose, even condescending.  

Ji Taoyu wondered if their past meetings had been too brief to reveal this side of him, or if success had changed him.  

Nestled under the quilt, his book untouched, Ji Taoyu’s thoughts were a tangled mess.  

Just as he considered closing the book to nap, his father’s voice carried over the rain as he spoke to a laborer outside.  

Ji Taoyu lifted his head slightly.  

He’s already done it?  

Hearing his mother remind his father to wear his rain cloak, Ji Taoyu shivered at the thought of the damp cold and burrowed deeper under the covers.  

That man seemed so stern and stubborn, yet he’d acted so quickly on the suggestion. A small comfort warmed Ji Taoyu’s heart.  

Rebirth to Erase Dark History Chapter 55 Part 1

Chapter 55: Stop Making Things Difficult  

The truck driven by Second Cousin wasn’t insured, and after the accident, the other party only compensated him 100,000 yuan. The medical expenses, compensation for the truck and goods, and a series of other costs were an astronomical sum for him. Relatives from the Li family who had savings lent him money, with Eldest Aunt giving an extra 8,000 yuan and telling him not to pay it back. Others mostly gave two or three thousand each. Second Uncle even sold everything they could at home to help him repay the debts.  

Even so, Second Cousin and his wife lived in dire poverty and took many years to recover. Later, they had a child, and their family’s situation gradually improved. But then Second Sister-in-law was diagnosed with a terminal illness, and her temper grew increasingly erratic. She became suspicious and paranoid, constantly blaming the Li family for failing to raise Second Cousin properly and demanding that Eldest Aunt and the others discipline him.  

The Li family was protective of their own, and after Second Sister-in-law complained too much, she was scolded in turn by Eldest Aunt down to Fourth Aunt. From then on, she never interacted with the Li family again. Until Yang Jiabo's death, Second Cousin and his wife remained married in name only, with a relationship that was strained and likely more troubled than if they had divorced. They quarreled endlessly. In short, Second Cousin’s life was one of poverty and chaos.  

Yang Jianjun had always believed that Li Wen was physically strong, loved firearms, and was a natural sharpshooter - perfect military material. If he had been born in wartime, he might even have become a hero. Yang Jianjun had lamented this more than once and mentioned it to Yang Jiabo several times, who took it to heart.  

Yang Jiabo thought that if Li Wen joined the military, he might have a better future, so he helped him enlist. Not long ago, Li Wen had excitedly called Yang Jiabo to say he had been promoted to squad leader. His marksmanship and physical fitness were outstanding, and the unit’s leaders had spoken to him about grooming him for advancement.  

Yang Jiabo was overjoyed and felt he had made the right choice in sending Second Cousin to the military. Second Uncle’s family was also thrilled and looked forward to Li Wen coming home on leave. But not long after, he was gone.  

If only he hadn’t tried to be clever, if Second Cousin hadn’t enlisted, he would still be alive. His life might have been hard and full of setbacks, but at least he would have married, had children, and remained a living person. It was all his fault. If he hadn’t meddled and tried to change someone else’s life, none of this would have happened.  

"Second Cousin, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have sent you to the military. I’m sorry, I’m sorry…" Yang Jiabo apologized over and over.  

Martyrdom was glorious, but it came at the cost of a life. Yang Jiabo respected martyrs, but he was selfish - he would rather Second Cousin had lived a peaceful life than become a martyr.  

When Yang Jianjun returned, he was shocked by Yang Jiabo’s state. He looked like a man who had lost his soul, muttering apologies incessantly - something was clearly wrong.  

"Jiajia, what’s wrong?" Yang Jianjun reached out and gently shook him.  

"I’m sorry, Second Cousin, it’s all my fault, I’m sorry, I’m sorry…" Yang Jiabo kept murmuring.  

"Jiajia, Jiajia, look at me. Tell me what happened." Yang Jianjun’s expression was grave. From Yang Jiabo’s fragmented words, he guessed something terrible had happened.  

Yang Jiabo looked up at Yang Jianjun, his voice hollow. "Second Cousin sacrificed himself. He’s dead. He died saving someone. He was so stupid, he was still so young. No, it’s my fault. I shouldn’t have sent him to the military. It’s my fault…"  

"What?" Yang Jianjun was stunned. "Jiajia, snap out of it. Tell me exactly what happened."  

"The military called. Second Cousin sacrificed himself. His ashes will be brought back in three days, and we need to prepare to receive them. If I hadn’t sent him to the military, he wouldn’t have died. He’d still be alive, maybe even have a son by now." Yang Jiabo was drowning in his own guilt.  

"Jiajia, pull yourself together. Your Second Cousin is waiting for you to bring him home." Yang Jianjun raised his voice sharply.  

Yang Jiabo jolted, his gaze clearing slightly as he looked at Yang Jianjun.  

"Dad, you’re right. Now’s not the time to grieve." Yang Jiabo forced himself to steady his emotions. "Dad, Second Uncle’s family doesn’t have a phone. Can you drive over and bring them here? I’ll call the other relatives and arrange how to bring Second Cousin home." His voice grew strained, his eyes reddening, but he held back his tears.  

"I’ll have Yang Qing come back to stay with you. I don’t trust you alone right now." Yang Jianjun called for Uncle Liu and asked him to fetch Yang Qing.  

Though the farm had many workers, Yang Jianjun didn’t want them to see Yang Jiabo in this state. His emotions were too unstable. Only after Yang Qing arrived and was instructed to watch over Yang Jiabo did Yang Jianjun leave.  

Suppressing his grief, Yang Jiabo called each of the Li family relatives. Knowing he wasn’t in the right state of mind, he didn’t personally visit those without phones, instead asking Eldest Aunt to arrange for someone to notify them. Yang Qing, seeing Yang Jiabo so distraught for the first time, stuck to him like a shadow.  

When the Li family heard Li Wen was gone, they couldn’t believe it. In their memories, he was still the cheerful young man proudly showing off his latest hunt. The dried game still hung under the eaves, his falcon still perched majestically on its stand, and Li Wen was still feeding it freshly caught prey.  

By the time Yang Jiabo had finished notifying everyone, it was nearly mealtime. The Li family rushed to the farm without eating. In recent years, the Yangs had almost cut ties with them, and most were visiting the farm for the first time. Though stunned by its scale, they were too preoccupied to dwell on it. Yang Jiabo had arranged for someone to meet them at the gate and escort them inside.  

Eldest Aunt was the first to arrive. Seeing Yang Jiabo, she asked anxiously, "Jiajia, is it true? Did Xiaowen really sacrifice himself?"  

Yang Jiabo: "Yes. The military leader personally called to inform us."  

"That foolish boy! Why did he have to show off? Didn’t he think about his family?" Eldest Aunt’s tears fell as she spoke.  

Every Li family member who arrived afterward asked the same question. Relatives trickled in, and Yang Jianjun brought Second Uncle, Second Aunt, and Fifth Cousin Li Cheng. Li Wen’s younger sister, Sixth Cousin Li Yan, was still at school, so Yang Jianjun made another trip to fetch her.  

When Second Aunt arrived, her face was still wet with tears. She asked Yang Jiabo to notify her elder sister and nephew. Second Aunt’s elder sister, Xiong Mei, was married to a railway worker and lived in the city. Her nephew, Xiong Yuan, had just been appointed deputy mayor this year.  

Though Yang Jiabo wasn’t close to them, he knew them. He had often heard Second Cousin talk about "Brother Shuisheng" (Xiong Yuan’s childhood name). Shuisheng had climbed his way up from a remote Miao village - a truly inspirational story. Compared to him, Yang Jiabo, who had been content with making a little money and idling after his rebirth, was nothing.  

Second Aunt’s family lived deep in the mountains in an impoverished Miao village. The mountain roads were treacherous, taking over four hours by car, so the rest of her relatives couldn’t be notified today. Yang Jiabo’s bamboo house was packed, but the atmosphere was heavy and silent. Only after everyone had gathered did the family begin discussing Li Wen’s funeral arrangements.  

Transmigrated As Cannon Fodder To Marry Chapter 97 Part 2

    "Wait, does your Fifth Brother actually like Miss Yin, or did he just want to free her from her engagement to the former Crown Prince?" Jiang Lin was baffled.  

    "The sole Empress, of course it’s true love. Don’t worry, Miss Yin agreed willingly."  

    That was a relief. Jiang Lin didn’t want her jumping from one pit of fire into another, Yin Ji would lose his mind.  

    Now reassured, Jiang Lin’s gossipy side emerged. "Do you know how the Fifth Prince and Miss Yin met? Wait, he’s always holed up in his residence, and Yin Feifei is a noble lady. How did they even cross paths?"  

    He eyed Yue Heng skeptically.  

    Yue Heng grinned. "How do you know he never leaves? Before I brought him to your place, did you even know him?"  

    "As for how they met, I’m not sure. Isn’t there a girl in your family who’s close with Miss Yin? Ask her yourself."  

    Jiang Lin understood, the Fifth Prince’s reclusiveness was just an act. Since few knew what he looked like, he could stroll around the capital unnoticed.  

    "So the Fifth Prince has helped you with a lot of things, hasn’t he?" Jiang Lin asked.  

    Yue Heng smiled without answering, but his expression confirmed Jiang Lin’s guess.  

    Wei Yunzhao interjected, "This works out. If Miss Yin agreed willingly, Lord Yin won’t have to worry about her marriage anymore."  

    Yue Heng didn’t comment, fanning himself lazily. "Well, it’s getting late. Susu must be waiting for me to return for dinner. I’ll take my leave."  

    Yue Heng stood, radiating happiness as he prepared to depart.  

    But after a few steps, he turned back. "Oh, I almost forgot, there’ll be more good news in a couple of days. Just wait and see."  

    Jiang Lin and Wei Yunzhao exchanged glances. Jiang Lin called Bai Wei over and sent her to relay a message to Wei Yunjia to visit the Yin family and confirm whether Yin Feifei truly consented.  

    Jiang Lin mused, "Yin Feifei is the real protagonist here. Whoever marries her becomes Emperor. She’s a lucky charm with an enviable fate."  

    Compared to someone truly blessed by fate, Jiang Jinyue and Jiang Rou who had been brainwashed by their systems were nothing.  

    Wei Yunzhao: "Maybe it’s just coincidence."  

    But even he had to admit that every prince who pursued Yin Feifei had imperial ambitions. No matter who ended up on the throne, the Empress’s position would be hers.  

    "As long as the Sixth Prince isn’t lying, Yin Feifei’s marriage is settled. But our girl is still waiting. Once the old Emperor dies, the Eldest Prince will return to the capital. Should we annul the engagement then?"  

    Wei Yunzhao said, "Let’s wait until he returns and let Yunjia decide for herself." From their correspondence, Wei Yunzhao thought the Eldest Prince was a decent man, someone his sister could rely on.  

    But his approval wasn’t enough. His sister’s happiness mattered most.  

    Jiang Lin, playing the overprotective "mother," had many criticisms. "He’s over a decade older than our girl. He’s stationed at the border year-round, are we supposed to let Yunjia suffer the harsh conditions there? Worst of all, the border is so far away. If she’s bullied, we won’t be able to help her."  

    In short, Jiang Lin wasn’t satisfied with the match.  

    Wei Yunzhao chuckled. "Children have their own fortunes. Don’t worry."  

    Jiang Lin rolled his eyes elegantly, making Wei Yunzhao laugh.  

    Two days later, they did receive two pieces of good news.  

    First, Cao Lan'er died in prison, drained of blood by the Bloodbone Worm - a fitting end for the once-mighty Empress, killed by her own cruel methods.  

    But her death went largely unnoticed. After her demotion, she had lost all significance.  

    The second piece of good news: Zhao Qiuru, after taking the antidote Jiang Lin sent, was no longer insane.  

    With Qiu Shui’s guidance, Zhao Qiuru learned many things - her son had been exiled, her daughter was dead, and she remembered being force-fed poisoned medicine by her maids.  

    She also realized the Zhao family’s role in her downfall. Her hatred for them now rivaled her hatred for Jiang Lin.  

    Killing Jiang Lin to avenge her daughter became an obsession, now compounded by her son’s fate. She wanted to tear Jiang Lin apart.  

    Qiu Shui calmly reminded her, "You can take revenge on the Zhao family, no one will stop you. But if you’re still foolish enough to target the Young Master, think about your remaining son first. Or would you rather leave nothing behind?"  

    Zhao Qiuru glanced at Qiu Shui’s belly. "Are you content being a concubine forever? Willing to let Jiang Lin inherit the title?"  

    Qiu Shui smiled gently. "Do you know why I’m still alive? Because I know my place. I know what I want and who not to cross. Madam, you’re smarter than me. Don’t you understand the situation yet?"  

    Zhao Qiuru did understand, she just refused to accept it.  

    Finally, she conceded. "If I do as Jiang Lin wants, will he spare my Hui’er?"  

    Qiu Shui nodded. "The Young Master doesn’t harm the innocent. And remember, this is your revenge, not his. Don’t confuse the two."  

    Zhao Qiuru laughed bitterly. "I see." The times had changed. Jiang Lin was no longer the weakling she could bully.  

    Qiu Shui: "As long as you understand."  

    Soon after, the capital was abuzz again - the Zhao family’s estate had burned down.  

    Half the compound was destroyed. Strangely, all the servants survived unscathed, while the Zhao family members suffered - some disfigured, others severely burned.  

    Only two died: the wife of the Zhao family’s eldest son, and the insane wife of the Anyang Bo, which was also a member of the Zhao family.  

    The fire ruined the Zhao family. Even with only two deaths, the disfigurement and burns meant they could never hold office again. Their hideous faces would haunt them forever.  

    True to her Zhao blood, Zhao Qiuru knew exactly how to make them suffer worse than death.  

    This was their own karma, no one pitied them.  

    The Zhao family’s downfall confirmed what the system had told Jiang Lin, this world was now truly the side characters’ world. The original protagonists and their beneficiaries would vanish.  

    Only the deposed Crown Prince and the Emperor Changde remained.  

    Two days later, Emperor Changde publicly announced his abdication in favor of the Fifth Prince, Yue Cheng, and summoned the Eldest Prince back to the capital.  

    That night, Yue Heng sent for Jiang Lin, Wei Yunzhao, and Su Qiao to enter the palace.

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 163 Part 1

Chapter 163  

    Lu Wen was never liked by the Li family's old madam, but after becoming pregnant with the Li family's bloodline, his situation improved significantly compared to before.  

    Li Mingshan was the Li family's only son, with no brothers or sisters, their family line was not prosperous. Who would have thought that both his wife and concubine would end up pregnant one after another? Outsiders praised the woman and shuang'er he married for being fertile, and Li Mingshan himself was also considered capable, which pleased the old madam immensely. Whether it was visiting temples to pray for blessings or giving alms to accumulate merit, he now brought not just Luo Hongchou but even Lu Wen along.  

    With the old madam's newfound favor, Lu Wen finally gained some face in the Li family and received many benefits. His food, clothing, and daily necessities became far more refined than before.  

    After learning of his pregnancy, he sent a servant to report the good news to Du Lianhua. As a mere concubine, even though the old madam was somewhat pleased by the news, he didn't send anyone to the Lu family to announce it. In contrast, when Luo Hongchou was diagnosed with a pregnancy, the old madam joyfully dispatched her personal old maidservant to the Luo family to deliver the news.  

    Lu Wen was well aware of the difference between himself and Luo Hongchou, it all came down to family background. He believed his character, appearance, and talents were no worse than anyone else's. If not for his inferior family background, he would never have entered the Li family as a concubine.  

    Du Lianhua had raised him all these years and had indeed treated him well. Even after remarrying into the Lu family, he hadn't let Lu Wen suffer too much hardship. But Lu Wen also knew that this was not solely his mother's doing. Having lost his father at a young age, he had learned to read people's expressions. After joining the Lu family, unwilling to endure the bitterness of living under someone else's roof, he did everything possible to make Lu Daxiang treat him as his own child. With a sweet mouth and diligent hands, Lu Daxiang treated him fairly well and even later sent him to study in town. If not for that, he wouldn't have sent money, grain, and clothes to Lu Daxiang now.  

    Country folk didn’t need much money - a few hundred copper coins at most, or two or three taels of silver at the very extreme. He coaxed Li Mingshan into giving him quite a bit of private savings. Moreover, supporting his mother and stepfather earned him a reputation for filial piety, proving he wasn’t the type to scorn the poor and chase the rich. And after becoming pregnant, both the Li family’s master and old madam bestowed rewards - far more generous than what Li Mingshan, who had yet to take over the family, could provide.  

    It was only after entering the Li family that he realized how narrow his previous worldview had been. A bowl of plain noodles worth ten copper coins had once seemed like a treasure, something he’d crave if he couldn’t have it. Fortunately, he had always been cautious and never shared his rural experiences with others, choosing instead to listen and observe quietly to avoid becoming a laughingstock.  

    Upon hearing of his pregnancy, Du Lianhua brought an old hen from home, saying she would stew it into soup to nourish him. Lu Wen knew his mother meant well, but that hen was truly… embarrassingly shabby.  

    After his pregnancy, the Li family even served him precious bird’s nest soup every few days. Not to mention old hens, if he wanted beef, he could have it anytime. Though it couldn’t compare to Luo Hongchou’s provisions in the main family, it was still worlds apart from him past life.  

    Two more maids were assigned to serve him, along with an old maidservant transferred from the old madam’s courtyard. Since this was his first pregnancy and he lacked experience, having an elderly maidservant by his side to offer guidance was deemed safer.  

    Lu Wen didn’t want to blame his rural mother, but Du Lianhua truly had a poor and tacky air about her. Every time he came to Lu Wen’s courtyard, she would touch and gawk at everything, even marveling at a spittoon, causing Lu Wen to lose face repeatedly - both openly and subtly. The woman from the main family even mocked him to his face.  

    The Luo family sent expensive bird’s nest, tonics, and medicinal supplements. Since they owned a silk shop, bolts of satin and silk were carried into the main family in chests, not to mention jewels and jade. In comparison, the old hen Du Lianhua brought seemed so insignificant yet so glaringly out of place.  

    Lu Wen knew full well that his mother’s visit wasn’t just to deliver the hen and congratulate him, she was also here to ask for money.  

    Du Lianhua never outright demanded it, not with maids watching inside and outside the courtyard. How could she lose face in front of such a wealthy family? She claimed everyone at home was fine and Lu Wen needn’t worry, only mentioning that Lu Wu was growing lately, his clothes now too short, and that he missed his brother. But alas, Fenggu Town was too far, and he couldn’t bring Lu Wu along.  

    Lu Wen stared at the old hen with its legs tied on the ground, then listened to her words. Though his expression remained gentle, inwardly he burned with shame, afraid the maids and servants would laugh at him. He immediately had someone fetch silver and two bolts of cloth, excusing himself by saying he felt unwell and tired, urging Du Lianhua to go home and make new clothes for the family - thus fulfilling his filial duty as a child.  

    With the silver and cloth in hand, Du Lianhua returned to Angu Village with her back straight and chin high, smugly flaunting her wealth to everyone she met, completely unaware that Lu Wen had sent her away out of embarrassment.  

    Since the old hen was a gift from his mother, Lu Wen couldn’t just throw it away, much less vent his frustration on it. Holding his nose, he forced a pleased expression and ordered the maids to take the hen to the kitchen to stew, saying he’d drink the soup after his nap.  

    After lying down, he dismissed the maids and old maidservant. The contrast brought by that old hen left him thoughts in turmoil, his heart unsettled.  

    Even though he had married into the Li family, if he didn’t take care of his mother, stepfather, and that brother of his, while Li Mingshan might not mention it, who knew what the old madam would think? Fortunately, country folk didn’t spend much. Sometimes, after giving Du Lianhua money, when Li Mingshan came to his courtyard, he could coax him with sweet words and recoup his losses.  

    Lu Wu was still young, but at least this stepbrother shared the same mother and was somewhat close to him, not siding entirely with Lu Daxiang or that Lu Gu.  

    Thinking of Lu Gu, though he resented how the Shen family had disrespected him on the street back then, he also felt a sense of escape. Thankfully, he hadn’t married that hunter, Shen Xuanqing.  

My Fulang is a Delicate Flower Chapter 11 Part 1

Chapter 11  

"I should have come to see you sooner, but I’ve been busy these days and couldn’t find the time."  

"I brought back some pastries and snacks. See if you like them."  

You Erlang handed the packages he was carrying to Ji Taoyu.  

"Thank you, Brother Erlang."  

Seeing the two getting along well, Ji Yangzong wore a gratified smile on his fatherly face.  

Only when he turned around did he remember that Huo Shu was still standing in the yard. He stepped forward and asked, "Is there something Warrior Huo needs?"  

Huo Shu glanced at Ji Taoyu and said, "It’s nothing urgent. Since the village head has guests, I’ll come another time to discuss it."  

With that, he cupped his hands in farewell and left.  

You Lingxiao was seeing Huo Shu for the first time. As the man passed by, a gust of wind followed him. You Lingxiao was already tall, yet he was still half a head shorter than this man.  

He couldn’t help but ask, "Uncle Ji, who was that just now?"  

"Many border soldiers have been returning home lately. He was Zhao Changsui’s comrade. Since Changsui is gone, he came to deliver Changsui’s belongings to the Zhao family."  

Ji Yangzong was puzzled as to why Huo Shu had come without saying anything, but when You Lingxiao asked, he didn’t mention that Ji Taoyu had fallen into the water and Huo Shu had saved him.  

You Lingxiao raised an eyebrow. "A man of loyalty and righteousness, then."  

Then he turned to Ji Taoyu and said gently, "But his face looks cold and harsh, likely someone who’s seen much blood on the battlefield. Such men are often ruthless. And soldiers are crude and reckless by nature. If you see him again, it’s best to keep your distance, lest he harbor ill intentions."  

Ji Taoyu frowned slightly, surprised that You Lingxiao held such disdain for border soldiers. He replied, "I know Brother Erlang means well, but those who defend the borders protect our homes and country. And he went out of his way to deliver his comrade’s belongings, he must be an upright and principled man."  

You Lingxiao laughed, as if finding Ji Taoyu naive.  

"You’ve met few people and don’t understand how deceitful hearts can be. These border soldiers are illiterate, and uneducated men tend to be rough and lacking in manners. Even those military officers who make it to court are inferior to civil officials, relying on brute strength and bloodshed for merit. Where is their integrity?"  

"If even court officials are like this, how much worse must the lowest-ranking soldiers be?"  

Ji Taoyu’s frown deepened. Just as he was about to speak, Ji Yangzong cut in, "Alright, let’s go inside. I know you two have much to catch up on, but there’s no need to stand outside talking."  

At this, Ji Taoyu pressed his lips together reluctantly. "Brother Erlang, let’s go inside."  

You Lingxiao, however, flicked his sleeves with vigor. "Very well."  

By the time Huo Shu reached the Zhao family’s gate, light rain had begun to fall.  

The autumn rain wasn’t heavy, but the fine droplets carried by the wind carried a biting chill.  

A peach tree as thick as a forearm stood in the yard, its sparse leaves rustling in the wind.  

Huo Shu stood lost in thought, reflecting on what Ji Taoyu had said to him earlier.  

If he wanted to stay, he’d indeed have to consider the reputation of Zhao Changsui’s mother. Ji Taoyu’s suggestion was undoubtedly a solution.  

But he was accustomed to the freedom of solitude. The idea of binding himself to something or someone left him hesitant.  

As he pondered, You Lingxiao’s face and his conversation with Ji Taoyu flashed through his mind.  

The two were of similar age, both good-looking, and standing together, they did seem well-matched.  

No wonder Ji Taoyu was so insistent on propriety, always mindful of his betrothal.  

An inexplicable irritation churned within him.  

"A-Shu, you went out?"  

Huo Shu turned to see Zhao’s mother hurrying toward the gate, two bolts of cloth in her arms.  

"Lucky I took the ox-cart back, or the rain would’ve gotten worse."  

Huo Shu held the gate open for her, and they entered the house together.  

"I bought two bolts of cloth today. The fabric shop said it’s this year’s newest material, it really is fine."  

Zhao’s mother set the cloth on the table and began unpacking her basket.  

"I also picked up some firewood, rice, oil, and salt. Didn’t think I’d bought much, but the basket’s already full."  

Watching her cheerful chatter reminded Huo Shu of his own mother returning from town when he was young.  

He didn’t respond at first, then suddenly said, "Aunt, there’s something I want to discuss with you."  

Zhao’s mother paused, the salt wrapped in oil paper still in her hands. She set it down and straightened, looking at Huo Shu.  

"What is it? Are you… leaving already?"  

Over the years, she’d told herself she was used to solitude. But during festivals, seeing families gathered happily, even if poor, she couldn’t help but feel sorrow.  

With no news of her sonl year after year and her husband’s health declining, she’d long suspected her son was gone and her husband wouldn’t last much longer.  

Then the day finally came.  

At night, she’d toss and turn, wondering if she’d die by the roadside someday, with no one to bury her.  

Until Huo Shu arrived. The house regained some life, she had things to do, and a semblance of purpose.  

But she knew Huo Shu was from the north. He’d leave eventually.  

She just hadn’t expected it to be so soon.  

"Autumn will pass quickly, and winter will be hard to travel in. Why not stay here for the New Year and leave in spring when the roads are better?"  

Yuan Huiru pleaded earnestly.  

Huo Shu shook his head. "That’s not what I meant. Today, someone told me the villagers gossip, and it’s improper for me to stay like this."  

"What I mean is...if you’re willing, I’d like to formally recognize you as my foster mother."  

"I’m from the north, but my parents are long gone. My homeland is now enemy territory, and I’ve no intention of returning. With the war over, I can settle anywhere. Given my bond with Changsui, I’d like to care for you in your old age."  

The decision came suddenly, but as he spoke, clarity settled in.  

Tongzhou wasn’t a bad place. A bit rigid in its customs, perhaps, but peaceful.  

Zhao’s mother had no children left. A widow her age would never remarry.  

Even an old widower faced a bleak future, how much worse for a woman?  

Even with money, she might attract ill-intentioned people. Besides, she’d treated him well.  

If he were to settle here, it might not be a bad idea.  

And if he ever truly wished to roam again, he could leave after her passing.  

He wasn’t indecisive. Once his mind was made up, he acted.  

Rebirth of the Useless Young Master’s Counterattack Chapter 43

Chapter 43: Confidence  

When Mu Lichuan heard these words, a heavy sneer flashed across his face. As expected, it was exactly as he had thought, his father's "heart" had long been biased in who-knows-what direction. In that case, playing the pig to eat the tiger couldn't be used anymore.  

[扮猪吃老虎 (bàn zhū chī lǎo hǔ): lit. play the pig to eat the tiger; fig. pretend to be weak to catch someone off guard.]  

"Pfft..." Just as he was about to speak, a mocking voice sounded from within him. "It seems without my help, you’ve had a rather tough time."  

Mu Lichuan laughed, but there wasn’t the slightest trace of amusement in his eyes. "Father, I refuse to marry Mo Shanshan! Much less participate in some so-called engagement ceremony. As for my younger brother... everyone knows exactly where your favoritism lies."  

"You—!" "You—!" Both Mu Changnian and Mu Xiaolin’s expressions turned extremely ugly. As for Mo Shanshan, it seemed she had long expected Mu Lichuan to say this, as her expression remained mostly unchanged.  

"Mu Lichuan, how dare you defy the patriarch’s will?" Someone, eager to curry favor, shouted loudly in the tense silence.  

Mu Lichuan straightened his collar, his gaze icy as he looked at the crowd. "So what if I defy him? A man who only dotes on his illegitimate son, why should I spare him any face?"  

Mu Changnian was practically fuming with rage. At that moment, Mu Xiwang entered from outside. "Mu Changnian, how can the marriage of the Mu family’s young master be treated so carelessly?"  

"Father!" Mu Changnian’s face twisted as if he had eaten something foul upon seeing his father intervene. "The girl is fond of Lichuan, how can I stand in the way of love?"  

"Stand in the way of love? Anyone who didn’t know better would think he’s your real son, and I’m the one you picked up off the street." Mu Lichuan’s tone was full of defiance, bolstered by the "spirit" inside him, which gave him unwavering confidence.  

Even if Mu Lichuan released the dark energy, he believed he could escape unscathed. After all, their personalities were strikingly similar.  

"Shut your mouth! Who gave you the right to speak here?" Mu Changnian radiated a chilling fury, his eyes fixed on his eldest son as if he wanted to tear him apart.  

At these words, Mu Lichuan laughed, but his eyes were frosty. "How amusing, Patriarch Mu. I'm the eldest son of the Mu family, the future heir. How is it that in your words, I don’t even have the right to defend myself? Grandfather, tell me, does the Mu family patriarch deserve his position?"  

Since he had abandoned and suppressed him first, what did it matter if he left the Mu family? He had the ability to carve out his own path in Chuan City - no, in this entire country.  

"From today onward, Mu Changnian is no longer the patriarch of the Mu family. All his authority within the family is revoked!" Mu Xiwang declared, his face dark. Things had been progressing well, yet somehow, they had spiraled into such a farce.  

Mu Xiaolin had originally planned to rely on his father, even intending to expose the hidden cameras in their residence. But now, because of the Mu family’s elder, all his plans turned to ashes.  

"If that’s the case, then from today onward, I, Mu Xiaolin, have nothing to do with the Mu family!" The young man stood tall, his eyes glowing with a bloody light - clearly, the dark energy within him was beyond his control.  

Mu Lichuan noticed the energy slowly spreading from him. "Xiao Mo!"  

Just as Mu Xiwang braced himself for the worst, he realized the dark energy around Mu Xiaolin remained confined to his own body, showing no signs of spreading. Instantly, he calmed.  

"How is this possible? Did you do this?" Mu Xiaolin charged at Mu Lichuan, clearly intending to kill him with his dark energy. "Why are you unharmed?"  

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 162 Part 2

    Lu Gu lightly smacked their hindquarters as a small punishment, though the weak taps didn’t hurt at all. The pups had tempers - once angry, they ignored each other. After being separated, one gnawed on the leg of Lu Gu’s chair while the other pawed at the bare flower tree in the yard.  

    These little things gradually pulled Lu Gu out of his earlier frustration. Guaizi was so endearing that he couldn’t help but smile.  

    Meanwhile, Lu Daxiang and Du Hehua, supporting each other as they limped away, were in no mood for joy. They groaned in pain, tears streaming from the agony, yet still found time to blame each other.  

    This time, Du Hehua’s right leg had been broken. Lu Daxiang hadn’t been injured in the legs, when Shen Xuanqing struck, he instinctively raised his arms to block, resulting in a broken right arm.  

    Du Hehua, for all her loudmouthed bluster and past scuffles with Wei Lanxiang and Ji Qiuyue, had never been beaten by a young man before. Shen Xuanqing and Shen Yaoqing, reluctant to strike a woman too harshly, had only broken one of her legs. After Shen Xuanqing went to block Lu Gu, Shen Yaoqing had threatened her other leg, warning her not to spread rumors tarnishing Lu Gu’s reputation.  

    Qingxi Village and Anjia Village were only three villages apart, not far at all. If he heard even a whisper of slander, even if it meant risking his life, he’d have to confront Du Hehua ‘reason with her properly’. Besides, with Lu Wen’s scandal hanging over them, if she could ruin others’ reputations, others could just as easily humiliate Lu Wen in town—or worse.  

    Lu Daxiang had fared even worse, beaten until he curled up on the ground, covered in dirt, two teeth knocked out, his face swollen, blood still smeared at the corners of his mouth. His expression was pained and resentful, squinting in the bright sunlight, which only deepened the wrinkles on his face.  

    Fuming inside, he now had to use his uninjured left arm to support Du Hehua, whose leg was broken.  

    "This is all your fault. If not for you, I wouldn’t have gotten beaten today. We didn’t get a single coin or grain, and now we’ll have to spend money on medicine," Lu Daxiang grumbled.  

    Du Hehua, who never held back with him, snapped back, "You useless coward! You just stood there while they hit me? Are you even a man?"  

    "You—!" Lu Daxiang’s lips trembled with rage, veins bulging at his temples, his face twisted in fury.  

    Du Hehua, seething from the beating, thought that if Lu Gu were still under her control, she’d thrash him soundly to vent her anger. But with no one else around except Lu Daxiang, who kept berating her, she wasn’t about to take it. In her fury, she spat out the first insult that came to mind:  

    "Pah! Spineless cuckold!"  

    Lu Daxiang lost his temper and slapped her, then pushed his wife, who already had a broken leg, to the ground, causing her to fall hard on her back.

    Du Hehua clutched her face, wailing and cursing, rolling on the ground in a fit. With her right leg broken, she couldn’t thrash properly, so she pointed at the sky and screamed every vile insult she could think of - words no decent person would tolerate.  

    Lu Daxiang turned to leave in a huff, but she pushed herself up, her hair disheveled and face streaked with dirt, and sneered, "You blame me? I should blame you for raising an ungrateful white eyed wolf! Who did I tell you to demand grain for? For you to have a decent meal! I cook and wash for you every day, and in the end, I don’t even get a kind word. Wen ger has been so filial since he married - sending money, sending grain, making sure you eat well and dress well. And now you resent me? If not for me raising such a good son, you wouldn’t even have rice to eat!"  

    "And you! Letting those two bastards call Wen ger a bastard! That unfilial Lu Gu is the real bastard!"  

    Lu Daxiang, who had already walked a dozen steps away, stopped at her words. The more he thought about it, the more he agreed, Lu Wen was indeed filial. Though he was Du Hehua’s son from a previous marriage, not his own, Lu Wen had given them so much this past year. Compared to Lu Gu today, the difference was clear.  

    But Lu Wen was closer to Du Hehua than to him. If he abandoned Du Hehua now, it’d be harder to ask for money later.  

    Lu Daxiang had always been spineless. In his youth, he’d had some fire, but now, in middle age, he cared only for petty gains - greedy, lazy, and always looking to take advantage of others.  

    He wouldn’t dare return to the Shen family. Last time, his leg was broken; this time, his arm. His back and stomach had taken plenty of blows too. If he came back again, he might not leave alive.  

    After some mental calculation, he realized Lu Wen was his only hope now.  

    The Li family was wealthy, and Lu Wen was a proper concubine. According to Du Hehua, their "good son-in-law" treated Lu Wen well, giving him fine clothes, good food, all the best. Even if the young master only let a few crumbs fall from his fingers, it’d be enough for them.  

    Du Hehua was still cursing, but Lu Daxiang turned back. He wanted to force a conciliatory smile but felt it beneath his dignity as head of the household. His face twitched before settling back into a scowl. Still, he went back and helped Du Hehua up.  

    Du Hehua snorted. She knew Lu Daxiang’s thoughts as well as she knew her own. But with her leg broken, she’d have to crawl home without him. Once upright, she stopped her tirade. Lu Daxiang had nothing to say either.  

    And so, battered and humiliated, they limped away.  

    Thanks to Lu Daxiang’s interference, Shen Xuanqing wasn’t too angry. In fact, he’d even vented some old grievances.  

    He didn’t know much about the Xu family, but given Lu Gu’s connection, he had to ask Luo Biao for information. While he was at it, he’d inquire about Lu Wen’s situation in the Li family. After all, Du Hehua and Lu Daxiang couldn’t even set foot in the Li estate anymore.

Rebirth of the Useless Young Master’s Counterattack Chapter 42

Chapter 42: A Gentle Trap  

All the guests present were prominent figures in Chuan City. Seeing the expression on the eldest young master of the Mu family, they could tell he was thoroughly frightened, evoking a wave of sympathy from the crowd. It made sense - after all, this was supposed to be his younger brother’s engagement ceremony, yet the bride-to-be was in love with him instead. Even if they ended up together in the future, it would become a laughingstock for others.  

“Mu Lichuan, tell me, weren’t we once engaged? Wasn’t it only because of special circumstances that I was forced to marry Mu Xiaolin?” Mo Shanshan’s face was streaked with tears. “If not for you, I would have died long ago. I don’t love the man who tried to kill me.”  

She was determined to drag Mu Lichuan down with her. As for how their lives would turn out after the engagement, she didn’t care - at the very least, Mu Lichuan was far better than Mu Xiaolin.  

Mu Lichuan desperately wanted to bury his face in his hands, or better yet, find a hole to crawl into. He never imagined Mo Shanshan could be so shameless. “Miss Mo, please restrain your grief. Some things cannot be forced.” The young man’s voice was soft, even carrying a faint smile.  

“Forced? I’m just asking you, was I once your fiancee or not?” Mo Shanshan knew full well that the boy wanted to sever all ties with her, simply because he didn’t love her. Matters of the heart couldn't be forced.  

“Yes.” A shadow flickered deep in Mu Lichuan’s eyes. Could it be that, after all this back and forth, he was still destined to be engaged to Mo Shanshan? Did this mean the trajectory of fate was truly unchangeable? His own mother had suffered the same fate.  

“If that’s the case, then why did I become Mu Xiaolin’s fiancée?” Mo Shanshan’s face was filled with despair. “Patriarch Mu, isn’t that right? As for the exact reason, I’m sure the Mu family knows very well.”  

Mu Changnian’s face was as dark as the bottom of a pot. His second son was being humiliated, while his eldest son acted as if he wanted nothing to do with the situation. As the patriarch of the Mu family, his dignity was utterly trampled. “Patriarch Mo.” He had no intention of interfering in the affairs of the younger generation, nor could he. If he did, he would be accused of bullying the weak.  

Mo Xiangxiong wore an apologetic expression before scolding, “Shanshan, what are you doing? Today is your engagement, a joyous occasion. How can you throw a tantrum like a child?” However, he dismissed her behavior as mere spoiled willfulness. What the crowd truly thought was their own business.  

“Father, I’ve thought this through. I can’t bear to lose Lichuan. Even if… even if I have to be his second wife, I’d be happy.” Mo Shanshan’s voice was soft, but she made her “love” sound pitifully humble.  

Mu Lichuan’s lips twitched as he looked at her. “Miss Mo, marriage is a matter of parents' orders and matchmaker’s words. Since fate has deemed us incompatible, why insist on forcing it?”  

“Since Lichuan puts it that way, Patriarch Mu, please betroth me to him instead. Let this engagement ceremony be for Lichuan and me.” Mo Shanshan acted as though she were deaf, completely ignoring Mu Lichuan’s words.  

Mu Xiaolin felt so humiliated he wished he could disappear. “You want to marry my elder brother? Have you even considered whether you’re worthy? What is my brother’s status, and what is yours? A used-up shoe, who would want you?”  

“Father, since Miss Mo loves elder brother so much, shouldn’t I, as the younger brother, step aside for them?” The boy’s eyes bore into the youth below as if he wanted to devour him alive.  

Mu Changnian felt he had no face left to save, but to avoid offending the Mo family, he declared, “In that case, let this engagement be between Lichuan and Mo Shanshan.”  

The moment these words were spoken, the entire hall erupted in murmurs. Was the Mu family’s engagement ceremony such a joke? Could the groom really be swapped out so casually?