My Fulang is a Delicate Flower Chapter 30 Part 1

Chapter 30  

You's mother arrived at the Ji family's gate, straightened her clothes, and touched her hair bun, ensuring she looked entirely presentable before striding confidently into the Ji family's courtyard.  

To her surprise, the courtyard was eerily quiet, without a single person in sight.  

She simply headed toward the Ji family's main hall. Just as she reached the eaves, she heard voices inside—though she couldn’t make out the exact words, the tone was light and cheerful.  

Clearly, they were entertaining guests and enjoying themselves.  

You's mother nearly spat in disgust. Their family’s reputation in the village was now in tatters, with everyone free to gossip about them, as if they were rats scurrying across the street.  

Meanwhile, the Ji family was all harmony and joy, completely at ease. If the Ji family hadn’t utterly humiliated the You family, they wouldn’t have fallen to such a state.  

Truly, she had every reason to resent them. 

But before she could actually spit, the Ji family’s hired laborer, Da Niu, walked out.  

"What do you want?"  

You's mother immediately straightened her posture. "I’m here to see the village head on some business."  

"They’re eating right now."  

Da Niu had worked for the Ji family for several years, and the family never treated him like a servant. When hosting familiar guests, they would even invite him to eat at the same table rather than setting a separate one for him.  

Today’s meal was particularly good, nobody wanted to be bothered.  

Seeing You's mother arrive at this hour, he was displeased. "You’ll have to wait, Sun niangzi."  

"I’m here for urgent business! Once I’m done here, I still have other matters to attend to!"  

You's mother grew even more irritated that a mere laborer, living under someone else’s roof, dared to speak to her like this. The village gossips had already abandoned their former flattery toward her family. But she didn't care, after all they were just shortsighted peasants. But a lowly servant had no right to bark orders at her.

"You’re just a hired hand, yet you presume to make decisions for your masters? If you delay my business, can you bear the consequences?"  

Unable to argue with her, Da Niu had no choice but to go inside and inform the village head.  

Hearing that You's mother had come, everyone at the table frowned. Ji Yangzong set his chopsticks down on his bowl, cursed under his breath, and stood up.  

"I’ll go see what she wants. Father-in-law, Huo-lang, you all keep eating. I’ll handle this and be right back."  

Huang Yinsheng nodded. "Go on."  

Ji Yangzong hurried out and saw You's mother standing there with an air of self-importance. His brows furrowed in displeasure. "What do you want now?"  

"Village Head, if you weren’t in charge of village affairs, I wouldn’t bother coming. But don’t worry—after this, even if you beg me to come, I won’t."  

Seeing Ji Yangzong’s impatience, You's mother didn’t even bother pretending remorse for the You family’s misdeeds. Instead, she dropped all pretense and said loftily, "We’ve bought property in the city. Lingxiao and I will be moving there soon. I’m here to submit the household registration documents."  

Ji Yangzong scoffed. "Looks like you can’t stand staying in the village anymore, rushing off to the city."  

"People strive for higher places, water flows to lower ground."  

You's mother’s expression darkened at Ji Yangzong’s blunt retort. Eager to salvage some dignity, she decided to lay her cards on the table.  

"Our Lingxiao is talented. He’s been taken under Assistant Prefect Xue’s wing, Assistant Prefect Xue is very pleased with him. Moving to the city will allow him to receive guidance more often."  

"You’d better hurry, then. With official transfers coming up, Assistant Prefect Xue will be reassigned by next March at the latest. Wouldn’t want your efforts to come to nothing."  

"Thank you for the reminder, Village Head. Even if it’s just three to five months, it should be more than enough time for the assistant prefect to deal with a couple of ignorant fools."  

Ji Yangzong fell silent. You's mother, seeing this, smirked triumphantly.  

"Commoners should never fight with officials, that’s why so many people study for the exams, isn’t it? All for the chance to have a say one day."  

"Some small-minded folk don’t know their place. They think being able to speak up in some tiny corner of the world makes them important, acting all bold and fearless, not realizing their recklessness has already sown the seeds of disaster."  

Ji Yangzong’s heart clenched.  

You's mother pressed him. "Don’t you agree, Village Head?"  

"Even the lowliest commoners must protect their reputations. If they cower in fear of power and dare not speak up, it only emboldens the wicked."  

"Who was in the wrong first, who harbored malice first, everyone knows the truth."  

A steady voice cut in. You's mother looked up, her brow tightening. "Physician Huang, you’re here too."  

Following him out were Huang Manjing and Ji Taoyu. To You's mother’s surprise, Huo Shu was also there.  

She and Huo Shu had no real connection, but she’d run into him multiple times at the Ji family, and had been intimidated by him more than once.  

Now, just seeing him made her uneasy. "The village head’s family is certainly lively today."  

With Huang Yinsheng and Huo Shu present, You's mother’s courage wavered.  

Huang Yinsheng had run a clinic in Tongzhou City for years and had treated many officials and clerks. Even if she disregarded that, she was still afraid of Huo Shu, worried he might just grab her again without warning.  

"If you’re here for household registration documents, Sun niangzi, come stamp your fingerprint."  

Ji Yangzong led her to the office to complete the formalities.  

After You's mother’s disruption, the meal couldn’t continue comfortably, though they had mostly finished eating anyway.  

Huang Yinsheng exchanged a few more words before leaving the village, he couldn’t stay long. With the recent unrest, injuries and illnesses had increased, and the seasonal change brought more patients. As the only physician at his clinic, he couldn’t afford to be away for long.  

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 189 Part 2

    Shen Xuanqing had gone to deliver rabbits again. Unlike in winter, there was little rain or snow now, making the roads firm and easy to travel. Back then, whenever it snowed, the melting slush turned the paths muddy, requiring both him and Shen Yaoqing to drive the cart together—if the wheels got stuck, an extra pair of hands was needed to push.  

    He had left early in the morning and only learned of Wu's old grandmother’s passing upon returning after noon. Digging a grave was just manual labor to him, no big deal. As for missing out on a decent vegetarian feast, it didn’t matter to him. He wasn’t lacking for a meal.  

    Before heading to the Wu family, he stopped by his old home for lunch. Since he’d be digging the grave, he couldn’t sleep with Lu Gu and the child these two nights, he’d have to stay at the new house.  

    The others, including Wei Lanxiang, had already eaten. Shen Xuanqing was late today. As soon as he entered the yard, Lu Gu handed little Lingjun to Shen Yan and went to the kitchen to fetch his meal.  

    "You and Eldest Brother will stay there these two nights. I’ve already found the red waistband, I’ll change you into it when you come back," Lu Gu said, sitting beside him as he ate.  

    Shen Xuanqing smiled. "Alright. Today, I went to Jixing Town. Master happened to be at the tavern, and I originally wanted to ask him and Brother Yang Xian to keep an eye out for any shops for sale. Turns out, there’s one available. It used to sell sundries, like needles, thread, pots, and bowls, sometimes even vegetables and fruit. Since it was just a small goods store, the space isn’t as big as other shops."  

    Hearing this, Lu Gu’s eyes lit up. Shen Xuanqing had mentioned Lingjun’s schooling before—only towns had schools shuang’er could attend. But if they rented a place in town, they’d be far from home. During busy farming seasons, they’d naturally return, but otherwise, they wouldn’t be able to help with the fields or livestock. They couldn’t just sit idle and live off savings, they’d need work to earn some money.  

    Being a shop assistant or doing odd jobs wouldn’t earn as much as running their own shop.  

    Shen Xuanqing continued, "Master said the shopkeeper, despite running a small business, earned enough to live comfortably year-round. Unfortunately, he loved to drink. Sometimes he’d get drunk at night and sleep until noon. His wife was meek and didn’t dare scold him much, if she did, she’d get beaten."  

    He took a sip of rice porridge, swallowed, and went on, "Last winter, the man drank even more. When drunk, he’d even gamble. Somehow, he fell into a trap set by scoundrels and lost heavily. Thankfully, he didn’t lose everything, just the shop. When debt collectors stormed in, they cleared the place out. If not for his relatives stepping in, he might’ve lost the deed too."  

    "Now, the family’s in dire straits, not a single copper coin left. His mother had to beg for credit to buy rice and vegetables. With no capital to restock, they’ve decided to sell the shop to pay off the remaining debts and keep a bit of seed money. They plan to start over as traveling peddlers."  

    "So that’s how it is," Lu Gu murmured, taking a sip of water to wet his throat. No one had ever taught him proper morals, but after hearing this, he understood the dangers of gambling. Thankfully, neither of the men in their family indulged, they only drank lightly and never gambled.  

    Shen Xuanqing took a few bites of vegetables and a big mouthful of steamed bun. Ever since they had enough grain at home, they alternated between fine white flour and coarse flour. But since fine flour was more popular, whether for buns or noodles, they often ended up eating white flour out of preference.  

    He shoveled half a bowl of food into his mouth, chewed, and said, "I’ve asked Master to inquire about the price. In a couple of days, I’ll go take a look at the shop. If it’s suitable, we’ll buy it. We can start the business slowly. Lingjun’s schooling is still years away, so there’s no rush. Once we’re settled there, we can expand later."  

    The thought of really buying a shop made Lu Gu’s eyes crinkle with joy, though he also felt a flicker of unease. After all, town was different from the countryside.  

    He added two thin sticks of firewood to the clay stove and sat back down. "So we’ll still sell meat?"  

    They had discussed this on New Year’s Eve. If they were going into business, they needed a plan.  

    Shen Xuanqing finished the last of his porridge, set the bowl down, and grinned. "All I know is hunting. I’m clueless about other businesses, just the dirty work of skinning and gutting animals. I’m used to slaughtering sheep and pigs. Other than being a hunter, the only other thing I can do is be a butcher."  

    "Our family has rabbits, chickens, ducks, pigs, and sheep. Selling meat would be perfect. It’s less profitable than hunting, but if I go up the mountain for a few days every month or two and have Eldest Brother mind the shop, I can still hunt deer and sheep. That way, we earn both incomes. Even if hunting only brings in eighty or a hundred taels a year, it’s enough."  

    Their family was small and had once been dirt-poor. Tilling the land gave them security, none of them dreamed of great wealth. Earning eighty or a hundred taels a year, if spent frugally, could last them years.  

    "I can make handkerchiefs and knots. It won’t earn much, maybe a few dozen to a hundred copper coins a month. That’ll be enough for Lingjun’s snacks later," Lu Gu said, his earlier nervousness fading as he grew excited about their future. He trusted Shen Xuanqing completely.  

    "And with chicken and duck eggs, once spring comes and they start laying, we can save some for Lingjun when he’s older and sell the rest. Even if it’s not much, it’ll still bring in a hundred or two hundred copper coins."  

    "Mhm. That’s the plan. You can earn a little extra for your snacks, buy whatever you want," Shen Xuanqing said, listening intently before nodding firmly. He loved hearing Lu Gu talk about their future, it filled him with joy.  

    But there was still work to be done these two days. Before he could finish eating, Shen Yaoqing came looking for him. With only these few days to dig the grave, Lin Shouyi urged them to finish quickly, they couldn’t delay the old grandmother’s burial.

The Rebirth of Crazy ger Chapter 61

Chapter 61  

As soon as they got home, Wang Jin went inside and laboriously dragged out a basket of white down. "A-Mu, I asked Brother Heng to gather this over the past few days. It’s bird down, though I’m not sure exactly what kind. But this down is very warm."  

As he spoke, he pushed the down toward Mu-ger. "When Laiyuan arrives later, have him carry it back for you. Then, when you get home, put in some extra effort, make the clothes double-layered. The inner layer should be thinner, and the outer layer thicker. After that, stitch this down inside the clothes. That way, when you wear them, they’ll be warm, and you’ll get through the winter more comfortably. Both you and the baby will feel better."  

Mu-ger crouched down and examined the down in the basket, pinching a small tuft between his fingers. The fine texture felt pleasant against his fingertips, and when he rubbed it gently, warmth began to spread.  

Mu-ger’s eyes brightened, this was excellent padding! But such down only grew on small birds, and extracting it must have been quite labor-intensive. This whole basket, who knew how many tiny birds had to be caught to gather this much?  

Mu-ger smiled. "Alright, I won’t stand on ceremony with you, A-Jin. There’s quite a lot here, enough for several sets of clothes. I’ll keep two for myself and send the rest back to you later."  

Wang Jin quickly shook his head. "No, no, this is all for you. Just make a few extra sets for yourself. And you’ll need to stitch a quilt with this too. Otherwise, the winter nights will be too cold, and your belly will freeze."  

Mu-ger froze, then looked up at Wang Jin. "All… for me? Then what about you, A-Jin?"  

This person was extremely sensitive to the cold too, he’d already been wearing multiple layers of clothing these past few days.  

Wang Jin scratched his head. "Brother Heng is out gathering more today. Once he brings it back, I’ll teach the method to the other gers in the tribe. Once they’ve learned, Hua-ger’s family can help me with the stitching. You’re pregnant now, you shouldn’t overexert yourself. Don’t worry about me. Just use this for now. Once Brother Heng finds more fur, it’ll be even warmer."  

"……" Mu-ger’s heart warmed. How could Yue-ger and others fail to see this kindness in him?  

Mu-ger opened his mouth to speak, but just then, someone approached from outside the courtyard.  

"Jin-ger, Mu-ger."  

The two turned and saw a charming ger standing at the gate.  

They exchanged glances, both seeing confusion in each other’s eyes, they were certain they didn’t know this ger.  

"May I ask who you are?" Mu-ger stood up and asked.  

The person tilted his head in puzzlement. "You… don’t recognize me?"  

The two looked blank. The ger grew impatient. "It’s me, Yu-ger!"  

"!" Their expressions froze as they stared at the ger in shock.  

This ger had almond-shaped eyes and a small mouth, though not stunning, he was quite delicate and pretty. They still remembered Yu-ger as a lump of fat, ugly and repulsive, his face at least twice the size of the one before them now…  

And now this person was claiming to be Yu-ger?!  

They stood dumbfounded for a long moment before Wang Jin finally snapped out of it. "You’re really Yu-ger?!"  

"Why would I lie?! Who in this tribe would dare impersonate me?" Yu-ger planted his hands on his hips and glared - a domineering gesture he’d always favored. But before, his bloated body made the motion look vulgar and unpleasant.  

Now that he’d slimmed down, his once-narrowed eyes (due to fat) had become clear almond shapes. When he widened them now, it looked more playful than intimidating.  

His face had thinned, accentuating his small mouth—now a vivid red against his delicate features, slightly pouty, primed to act cute.

Mu-ger burst out laughing. This version of Yu-ger could never intimidate anyone, no matter how fierce he tried to be.  

"Yu-ger, how did you…" Mu-ger paused, looking him up and down. "How did you lose so much weight so suddenly?"  

It wasn’t just his face, his entire body had changed drastically, as if someone had sucked out all the fat beneath his skin.  

As soon as Mu-ger finished speaking, Yu-ger’s face twisted in grievance. "It’s all Yue-ger’s fault! In such a short time, I’ve been starved down to nothing but bones!"  

"……" Wang Jin’s eye twitched.  

"Bones" was an exaggeration, because he was still a little plump, but compared to before, the difference was staggering.  

"You have no idea how awful Yue-ger is!" Seeming to have finally found someone to vent to, Yu-ger grabbed their hands and launched into his tirade. "Ever since he married my brother, he’s taken over all the food at home! If he can’t finish it, he gives it away to the other gers in the tribe. If I try to eat a little more, he mocks me for being fat, short, and ugly. He also says no beastman would ever want me! Wuwuwu…"  

As he spoke, Yu-ger grew so aggrieved that tears actually welled up.  

"I haven’t had a full meal in so long! Even the best fur in my room was stolen by him. My brother and father always take Yue-ger’s side. Sometimes, when it’s clearly his wrongdoing, he pins it on me. I try to explain, but they won’t listen, they don’t believe me! Yue-ger is just too much!"  

Yu-ger kept the two of them trapped for hours, ranting nonstop about Yue-ger. Mu-ger had long since invited him to sit in the courtyard and even thoughtfully provided water.  

Between sips, Yu-ger continued his endless complaints - petty grievances that made their heads throb. Yet he showed no sign of stopping.  

Wang Jin couldn’t take it anymore and cut in. "Hold on."  

"?" Yu-ger looked at him, waiting.  

Wang Jin’s brow twitched. The ger’s eyes were bright and earnest, even carrying a hint of familiarity - as if he considered them friends now.  

Wang Jin’s eyelid kept jumping. Did this guy forget that he’d once tried to drive him out of the tribe? And steal his Brother Heng…?  

"Ah! Right." Yu-ger seemed to read something in Wang Jin’s expression and suddenly remembered. He stood up and bowed deeply to Wang Jin.  

"I’m sorry, Jin-ger!" he shouted with startling vigor, making Wang Jin flinch.  

"Everything before was my fault. I apologize." His face was full of sincerity.  

"……" Wang Jin wasn’t sure how to respond. He cleared his throat. "You… you should sit down first."  

"Okay." Yu-ger complied shamelessly, then beamed at them.  

This guy had even thicker skin than him. Wang Jin pursed his lips and muttered, "So… why are you really here?"  

Yu-ger’s sharp ears caught it. He suddenly grabbed Wang Jin’s hand, eyes sparkling. "I saw it earlier."  

Wang Jin hissed in pain as his wrist was squeezed. Yu-ger immediately let go, realizing his mistake.  

Pulling his hand back, Wang Jin saw red marks already forming. Yu-ger might have slimmed down, but his strength hadn’t diminished at all.  

Wang Jin glared. Yu-ger scratched his head sheepishly, wanting to reach out again but not daring to. "Sorry, sorry! I forgot how fragile you are."  

"……" Wang Jin gave him an unimpressed look and changed the subject. "What exactly did you see?"  

At this, Yu-ger’s eyes lit up. Staring at Wang Jin with admiration, he said, "I saw you standing up to Yue-ger."

Rebirth of the Useless Young Master’s Counterattack Chapter 70

Chapter 70: The Nine-Sail Ghost Banner  

After getting off the bus, Mu Lichuan found himself in a hazy, indistinct place. Many "ghosts" drifted past him before vanishing into a swirling vortex of darkness.  

These ghosts had no consciousness whatsoever, yet they carried a heavy aura of yin energy. Normally, when a person died, their soul would dissipate quickly if exposed to sunlight, with no chance of reaching a place like this. Could it be that the "bus" served this very purpose?  

He was human. Even though he possessed the Yin-Yang Eyes and could traverse the boundary between the living and the dead, he had merely boarded a random bus—only to end up on one from the "Underworld."  

He had heard of the Underworld before, but was this really the path leading there? Why were there no Black and White Impermanence Officers? Could the bus driver be one of them? Mu Lichuan was utterly baffled, but one thing was certain—he had no intention of following this path.  

[Black and White Impermanence Officers (黑白无常, Hēi Bái Wúcháng): The Underworld's ghostly enforcers in Chinese folklore. Hei Wuchang (Black) captures evil souls, while Bai Wuchang (White) guides the good, embodying the duality of judgment in the afterlife.]

The ground beneath his feet was gray and spongy, yet firm enough that he wouldn’t sink. The ghosts around him were incomplete, clearly missing large portions of their souls.  

When Mu Lichuan turned to look behind him, his eyes widened in shock. The passage was vanishing at a visible rate. He immediately tried to run back, only to find his feet rooted in place. If he still didn’t realize what was happening by now, he’d be a fool. Someone had set up this "trap," forcing him to move forward.  

"Mu Lichuan! Do you have nothing better to do? How did you even end up in—wait, this isn’t quite the same as the path to the Ghost Realm." Before Mu Lichuan could decide his next move, a long-absent voice rang out in his mind, laced with frustration.  

Xiao Mo had nearly succeeded in his own endeavor when he was abruptly pulled back. Upon closer inspection, he realized the young man was in trouble. Xiao Mo’s spirit was attached to Mu Lichuan’s spiritual sea, if it were destroyed, even if he reclaimed what was his, he’d be forced into slumber again. Who knew how many years would pass before he woke up next?  

"I don’t know how this happened. Do you recognize this place?" Mu Lichuan had no intention of relying on Xiao Mo. After all, the latter was just a soul, he could offer advice, but Mu Lichuan had to handle everything himself.  

"I’m not a god. Even gods don’t know everything. Just follow the ghosts." Xiao Mo’s tone was indifferent. Fortunately, he had left behind a trace of golden light. If they truly ended up in an unknown realm, he could use it to pull Mu Lichuan back. Otherwise, getting lost in the void would be fatal—especially for someone still at the Foundation Establishment stage.  

Mu Lichuan was speechless, but he had a vague suspicion: Xiao Mo had likely lost most of his memories. Once they were unsealed, his knowledge would return. Still, Mu Lichuan couldn’t help but worry. To true powerhouses, a Foundation Establishment cultivator was nothing, they could be crushed with a flick of a finger.  

The ghosts continued streaming forward, their yin energy thick, their resentment varying in intensity. Without exception, they were drawn by something—otherwise, they wouldn’t be so docile.  

The path ahead was like a storm. Mu Lichuan cast a protective barrier around himself and gripped a handful of talismans.  

Xiao Mo’s spatial treasure had one major advantage: it was filled with talismans, many of which Mu Lichuan had never seen before. Even with his low cultivation level, throwing one could kill effortlessly. Or rather, kill ghosts without a trace.  

"Xiao Mo, besides the Underworld, is there also a Ghost Realm?" Mu Lichuan asked within his spiritual sea. Outside the barrier, the storm raged, devouring mindless ghosts like particles.  

"Of course there is. Focus on the present, don’t get distracted!" Xiao Mo snapped sternly. His memories had partially returned, and he now knew exactly who this "young man" was. But this reincarnation was pathetically weak, anyone could crush him with a finger.  

Had Mu Lichuan’s identity been exposed? Xiao Mo dismissed the thought immediately. This was the Lower Three Realms, a place scarce in spiritual energy and resources. If those people were searching for Mu Lichuan, they’d scour the Upper Three Realms or the Immortal Realm, not this backwater.  

[Lower Three Realms (下三界, Xià Sān Jiè): In Chinese mythology and cultivation lore, the Lower Three Realms refer to the mortal world and its adjacent planes. Comprising the  Human Realm (人界, Rén Jiè), the Ghost Realm (鬼界, Guǐ Jiè), and the Demon Realm (妖界, Yāo Jiè) - where spiritual energy is scarce, inhabitants are weaker, and higher cultivation is nearly impossible compared to the immortal-rich Upper Three Realms (上三界, Shàng Sān Jiè).]

Mu Lichuan steeled himself. He couldn’t afford carelessness. Without knowing the full situation, relying solely on his barrier was foolish. He remained vigilant, scanning for an exit.  

He had no idea how long he walked before stopping abruptly. Below him stretched chains, each shackling a wrathful shadow soul.  

[Shadow soul (阴魂, Yīn Hún): a corrupted spirit saturated with lingering resentment and yin energy, devoid of consciousness yet drawn to devour weaker ghosts to grow stronger]  

Shadow souls were different from ordinary ghosts. They were souls steeped in immense resentment, devoid of will—only responding to their master’s call. Anyone else who encountered them would be corroded.  

Mindless souls, carrying resentment or yin energy, fluttered toward the chained shadow souls like moths to a flame.  

The chains were densely packed, restraining countless shadow souls. At the center, the largest shadow soul continued absorbing the resentment of the smaller ones, growing ever more massive.  

"So that’s it…" Xiao Mo sighed. No wonder a path to the Ghost Realm had appeared in the Lower Three Realms.  

Mu Lichuan frowned. "You know this place?" He was well aware of his own ignorance. Beyond the books in his spatial treasure, he had little practical knowledge.  

"Inside the Nine-Sail Ghost Banner. But this is just a minor piece—nothing significant." Xiao Mo’s voice was icy, as if the artifact was beneath his notice.  

[The Nine-Sail Ghost Banner (九帆鬼幡): a supernatural artifact from Chinese lore, often depicted as a cursed or spectral banner with nine sails symbolizing dominion over death - used in necromancy, soul-summoning, or as a harbinger of doom, rooted in Daoist underworld mythology]  

"Then can we leave?" Mu Lichuan relaxed slightly. Fortunately he had Xiao Mo in his spiritual sea, without him, escaping would’ve been a nightmare.  

Xiao Mo scoffed. "You think it’s that easy? I have no physical form, and you’re only at Foundation Establishment. No wonder you were tricked into coming here." He couldn’t fathom how the cold, ruthless deity he once knew had reincarnated into such a clueless human. Did rebirth really change everything, even intelligence?  

Mu Lichuan didn’t argue. He knew his cultivation was lacking. He’d been played without realizing it, mistaking it for life experience. The seemingly peaceful mortal world hid immense dangers - ones he’d been blind to in his past life. The thought filled him with regret.  

"We should dual cultivate our souls as soon as possible. But it’s impossible in this realm, and I haven’t reclaimed what’s mine. Even if we did, the effects would be minimal." Xiao Mo repeated his earlier suggestion. The more he remembered, the less he wanted to dual cultivate with this "idiot." Yet something in his mind insisted this person was important.  

"Given your current state, escaping the Nine-Sail Ghost Banner requires a guide." Xiao Mo emphasized.  

Mu Lichuan asked, "Who? Someone related to me by blood?" But his great-grandfather was already on the verge of death. If he became the guide, wouldn’t that kill him?  

"You think your great-grandfather is capable? No, someone blessed with national fortune, carrying dragon energy. That’s what’s needed to counter this. You’re only alive now because of the golden light within you. Did you really think your meager power of faith could handle these shadow souls?" Fortunately, this is an incomplete Nine-Sail Ghost Banner. The real deal can force even a Nascent Soul cultivator to retreat.  

"Mi Shen?" Mu Lichuan immediately thought of him. "But why do I feel weak whenever I’m near him?" He’d wanted to ask this for a while, but Xiao Mo had been absent.  

Xiao Mo remained silent for a long time. Meanwhile, the shadow souls above had noticed Mu Lichuan. If not for the chains restraining them, they’d have torn him apart already.  

"It’ll pass with time." Xiao Mo replied vaguely. He knew well that those touched by national fortune could inadvertently bring misfortune to the young man.  

"I have a strong suspicion that my current predicament is tied to him. Xiao Mo, what are you hiding?" Mu Lichuan wasn’t stupid. Xiao Mo’s disappearance likely had something to do with Mi Shen.  

Xiao Mo's tone grew colder. "Do you want to leave or not? Staying longer will drain your life force."  

The mention of "life force" snapped Mu Lichuan’s focus back. "Then summon the guide quickly—"  

His surroundings offered no exit, only shadow souls and endless gloom, oppressive and suffocating.  

"I can’t. You’ll have to rely on your own will to send a message." Xiao Mo’s tone turned almost spiteful. Since Mu Lichuan dared to question him, let him handle this himself. Consider it training.  

Mu Lichuan’s forehead creased. "That’s assuming the other party has a connection to me." Without one, no amount of calling would help.  

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 189 Part 1

Chapter 189  

    After the New Year, no more snow fell, but spring had yet to arrive, and the weather remained chilly. The Wu family’s elderly grandmother, who had tightened her belt and endured the bitter winter, could not withstand the lingering cold of early spring. She caught a chill at night and fell ill with typhoid fever. With no money for medicine, she passed away within days. 

[勒緊褲腰帶 (lēi jǐn kù yāo dài): lit. to tighten the waistband of one's pants; fig. to endure hardship with extreme frugality] 

    The Wu family was poor, so poor that they couldn’t even arrange a marriage for their son, let alone afford a funeral feast. If not for the relatives who pitched in some silver to buy a thin coffin, she might have been wrapped in nothing but a tattered straw mat.  

    They were all from the same village. Back when the Shen family’s second branch was struggling, the Wu family had never looked down on them. The old grandmother would still greet them kindly, never gloating over their misfortunes. Now that she was gone, Wei Lanxiang followed village customs and brought over some rice and flour.  

    Most country folk were poor. Whether for weddings or funerals, if there wasn’t enough food, they had to rely on relatives and fellow villagers to help out, often bringing staple goods like these.  

    Since Lingjun was too young, Lu Gu stayed home to look after the child and didn’t go. Early in the morning, upon hearing of the old grandmother’s passing, Wei Lanxiang dug out red paper. Now, he and Shen Yan mixed some paste and pasted the red paper on their doors and windows for protection.  

    The wind rustled the red paper in Shen Yan’s hands, the cold gusts biting. Fortunately, it wasn’t raining or snowing. They pressed the paper firmly to keep it from tearing in the wind.  

    "We’ve really given Eldest Aunt plenty of face today," Ji Qiyue chuckled in the room as she picked up little Lingjun.  

    Earlier, while Lu Gu was mixing the paste, Lingjun had woken up. She had carried Zhao’er over to soothe him, never expecting that little Ling ger would respond well to her today, after just a few comforting words, he stopped crying. Since there was a funeral in the village, she had already dressed Zhao’er in a red bellyband and did the same for little Lingjun.  

    On the bed, Zhao’er sat on the quilt playing, his chubby little body looking sturdy as he shook little Lingjun's rattle. He had his own, but he rarely played with it—only when he came to Lu Gu’s room and saw this one would he clamor for it.  

    "Other people’s things always smell better," Ji Qiyue teased, glancing at her son. Sometimes, when Lingjun was eating fruit and Zhao’er saw it, he’d grow desperate, crying if he couldn’t snatch it. Last time, she had spanked his butt a few times. Lingjun wasn’t even fighting for her milk, so why the fuss? Always bullying his little brother.  

    Lu Gu came in after pasting the red paper and, seeing her holding Lingjun, picked up Zhao’er to play with him, making the child giggle with delight.  

    The wind outside was strong, so they stayed indoors. Now that Zhao’er was over a year old, he could sometimes grip the headboard and pull himself up while playing on the bed. His plump little arms and legs were quite strong—just the other day, he had taken his first wobbly step.  

    Shen Yan put away the paste bowl and red paper, then brought in a sewing basket. Seeing them all on the bed, she set up a small table and climbed up herself.  

    Though her birthday hadn’t arrived yet, by local reckoning, she was already considered fourteen after this New Year, she was a grown girl now. In another year or two, they’d start discussing marriage prospects. She had visibly grown taller, no longer as short as before, and even her features had matured slightly, shedding some of their childishness.  

    In the past, she had been carefree, only interested in playing. But now that she was older, she knew she had to practice her embroidery and needlework more. No matter what, being able to earn a little money from sewing was always a good thing.  

    In the countryside, bridal clothes and veils were often sewn by the girls and shuang’er themselves. Poor families couldn’t afford much red cloth, so they had to make do with just a red veil. But their family’s circumstances had improved, they could now buy enough red fabric for a full bridal outfit. Wei Lanxiang had already begun slowly preparing her dowry.  

    Not just Wei Lanxiang, Shen Yan herself had saved up a bit of money over the past two years. Her family never asked for it, and since she hardly spent much, she kept it all for herself.  

    Seeing her working on handkerchiefs, Ji Qiyue smiled and said, "Once the weather warms up, I’ll visit my parents. I’ll take a couple of these new handkerchiefs for my mother, let them see our Yan Yan’s skills and be impressed."  

    Two handkerchiefs were nothing to Shen Yan. She nodded. "Of course. The finished ones are in that basket, just pick whichever ones you like."  

    The sisters-in-law, nieces, and nephews sat on the bed chatting and playing. Before long, Wei Lanxiang returned, having taken some bowls from home to lend to the Wu family for a couple of days.  

    With the door open, they could see into the main hall. Ji Qiyue asked, "Mother, how is it over there?"  

    Wei Lanxiang scooped hot water from the jar with a bowl. Since the old grandmother had just passed this morning, the Wu family hadn’t yet sorted everything out. Seeing they were short on dishes, she decided to come home for a drink before taking a stack of bowls over.  

    Wiping her mouth, she said, "Same as usual—the body will lie in state for three days. When Erqing gets back, tell him and Daqing to come find me there. We’ll see when to dig the grave. The Wu family is poor, they can’t afford a big feast, so not many are willing to help with the digging. We’ll just treat it as doing a good deed."  

    "You two should also dig out your red waistbands and change into them. The children are young, better not risk any ill omens," she reminded them. Then she added, "I’m taking some bowls over. For lunch, if I eat there, I won’t come back. If there’s no food, remember to save some for me."  

    "Understood, Mother. Go ahead," Ji Qiuyue replied. If not for her and Lu Gu having to mind the children, and Shen Yan being an unmarried girl, they too would have gone to help today, aside from Wei Lanxiang

My Fulang is a Delicate Flower Chapter 29 Part 4

The Ji family treated Huo Shu much as they had when he first arrived in the village, though now with far more familiarity and less formality.  

Since he was no outsider, Ji Yangzong continued the discussion: "Huo-lang’s willingness to escort the grain with me certainly adds a layer of security. But bandits are vicious—after all, two fists can’t fight off four hands. Relying solely on the village’s able-bodied men still carries great risk."  

"If the yamen can’t send men to assist with transporting the grain, the village will have to find its own solution. If anything happens to the grain on the road, the farmers will bear the blame. Taxes have risen year after year, yet harvests haven’t improved. Collecting this year’s taxes was hard enough, if they’re lost, making up the difference will be impossible."  

Huo Shu said, "If the bandits are active within the prefecture, the government can only suppress the news for so long. Sooner or later, every village under Tongzhou will face the same threat."  

"If the prefecture’s manpower is insufficient, why not have neighboring villages assist each other? Gather the able-bodied men from several villages and take turns escorting the grain into the city."  

"That’s an excellent idea! I’ll privately discuss it with the heads of the nearby villages."  

Ji Yangzong’s eyes lit up, and Huang Yinsheng also nodded approvingly, stroking his beard: "Then let’s wait for now. Don’t rush to send the grain out, being scolded for a delay is better than losing the shipment."  

"The village must also stay vigilant. Tell the families near the entrance to keep an eye out for strangers. If anything seems amiss, they should report it immediately."  

Seeing that Huo Shu had arrived, Ji Taoyu and Huang Manjing went into the kitchen to prepare the meal, leaving the three men to continue their discussion.  

With a plan in place, Ji Yangzong and Huang Yinsheng’s tones grew lighter. After settling the matter, they circled back to the You family affair, taking the opportunity to express their gratitude to Huo Shu.  

"I truly never expected the You family to be so petty. Calling off the engagement was a mutual decision, not one family unilaterally breaking the betrothal. Yet they still tried to harm Xiao Taozi, using the situation to suppress the Ji family. Their methods are truly disgraceful."  

"If it weren't for Huo-lang's help, we might have been at a loss, letting the You family have their way. The debt our Ji family owes Huo-lang is beyond repayment."  

Ji Yangzong spoke as he poured Huo Shu another cup of tea.  

Huo Shu was not the kind to demand repayment for favors. From the start, he hadn’t acted to curry favor with the Ji family or gain anything, he had simply done it to protect those he wanted to protect.  

Even if the Ji family had promised Ji Taoyu to someone else, he would have done the same.  

"Neighbors in the same village ought to help each other. The village head need not feel uneasy."  

Hearing this, Ji Yangzong felt relieved. Seeing that Huo Shu didn’t use this matter to bring up Ji Taoyu made his impression of Huo Shu rise even higher.  

As they spoke, the aroma of stir-fried meat wafted from the kitchen. Ji Yangzong and Huang Yinsheng dropped the unpleasant topic and invited Huo Shu into the main hall for dinner.  

They shifted the conversation to ask how Huo Shu had been faring learning his craft under Butcher Qiao these days and which family had slaughtered pigs that day, and so on.  

Before long, a table full of dishes was brought out one after another: vermicelli stewed with black-bone chicken, ginger-shredded stir-fried duck, steamed cured meats, radish stewed with pig’s trotters… Large and small dishes covered the table, steaming hot and fragrant, the spread almost as lavish as a New Year’s feast.  

"These prawns were bought fresh from the village pond today. Dip them in Sifufang’s aged vinegar, they’re sweet and fragrant. Huo-lang, have a few more."  

Ji Taoyu sat beside Huang Manjing, one seat away from Huo Shu. Hearing his father’s words, he nodded eagerly in agreement:  

"This batch of prawns is plump, they must be sweet."  

Huang Yinsheng noticed Ji Taoyu's eyes lighting up at the sight of the bright red prawns and chuckled. "No need for formalities among familiar faces. Let’s start eating."  

To express his gratitude, Ji Yangzong even brought out a jar of his treasured liquor.  

Huo Shu wasn’t one for drinking games, he simply drank when poured. Seeing his straightforwardness, Ji Yangzong grew even more enthusiastic.  

Ji Taoyu, watching his family fall back into their endless drinking routine, quietly picked up his chopsticks and helped himself to the richly stewed chicken wings, then the tender spicy duck.  

The cured meats were rare treats too - smoked pork liver and heart, organs that wealthier families might scorn. But salted, cured with cypress smoke, washed clean, steamed, and thinly sliced, they weren’t the least bit gamey, instead full of flavor.  

Their family only prepared such cured meats during the New Year pig slaughter. Salt was expensive, and cured meats were costly, so they weren’t often served to guests.  

There were also chewy fresh pig’s trotters, not a single dish on the table failed to tempt him. Though he looked slender, Ji Taoyu had a voracious appetite, eating everything yet never seeming to gain weight.  

Huo Shu also found the good food and drink quite satisfying.  

Especially when he saw Ji Taoyu, in the comfort of his family, casting aside formalities, rolling up his sleeves slightly.  

Holding two large prawns, he deftly twisted off the heads, peeled the shells, and dipped the plump meat in vinegar before popping it into his mouth, cheeks puffing with satisfaction—a sight that brought a faint smile to Huo Shu’s eyes.  

Huo Shu ate well this meal, after all, opportunities to enjoy the Ji family’s cooking were rare. So far, he’d only eaten it twice.  

Just as the family was enjoying this harmonious moment, an unwelcome guest arrived.  

"Right at mealtime,she sure knows how to pick her timing. Is she here to freeload?"

The Sweet little Fulang Chapter 188 Part 2

    Shen Xuanqing watched from the side, raising and lowering his hands a few times. Compared to his rough hands, Shen Yan’s were smaller and gentler, so it was better to leave it to her and Lu Gu. If he accidentally hurt Lingjun and Wei Lanxiang found out, he’d be on the receiving end of her glare.  

    Lingjun was different from Zhao'er after all. While Wei Lanxiang doted on her eldest grandson, she also cherished her own soft, small little shuang’er dearly.

    This time the binding was very loose, so little Lingjun didn’t fuss or cry much. The small lilac silk flower on him looked lovely too, making his father smile involuntarily beside him.  

    Shen Xuanqing found it more endearing the longer he looked and said, “When the New Year comes, we’ll buy a few more new ones so he can wear a different one every day.”  

    “Mm.” Lu Gu agreed. But because the flower was tied too loosely, little Lingjun turned his head and rubbed it askew. Lu Gu chuckled and gently took it off. The child was still too young, so it was better not to insist on him wearing flowers and such.

    After having a child, life became a flurry of busyness. When little Lingjun cried, he sometimes wouldn’t stop for a long time. When Lu Gu grew tired from soothing him, Shen Xuanqing would take over. If that didn’t work, there was still Wei Lanxiang. Some nights were so restless they had to soothe the child all night, leaving both of them yawning and drowsy the next day. But their little Lingjun was so beautiful and lovely that every relative or visitor who came by would praise him.  

    Time seemed to pass in the blink of an eye, and before they knew it, the festive season had arrived again.  

    On New Year’s Eve, the rest of the family went out to set off firecrackers. Even Zhao’er, who couldn’t sleep, was carried out. He was quite bold, Shen Yaoqing held him at a distance, so he didn’t cry from fright.  

    Firecrackers sounded one after another in the village. Country folk only really celebrated during the New Year, but most families didn’t have much money, so they didn’t buy many firecrackers. Since their family had two children and Lingjun was still too young, they didn’t buy many this year either, just enough to make a bit of noise for the festivities.  

    Lu Gu stayed inside holding the child, doors and windows tightly shut to muffle the noise outside.  

    He patted the child to soothe him. Little Lingjun had already stopped crying. The windows were pasted with thick paper, so only the faint glow of the brazier burning in the yard could be seen. As the night deepened and fewer firecrackers went off, all of Qingxi Village gradually quieted down.  

    Shen Xuanqing soon returned and took the child, who had been too disturbed to sleep, so Lu Gu could rest his arms.  

    The room was lit not just by candles but also by a beautiful palace lantern, its paper painted with clusters of flowers, casting a warm glow inside.  

    “Eldest Brother and I will keep watch tonight. You just sleep, don’t worry about it,” Shen Xuanqing said while patting little Lingjun. The gentle rocking and patting gradually lulled the tired child to sleep.  

    “Mm. I left food in the pot, along with rice. Remember to add firewood to the stove. If you get hungry in the middle of the night, you and Eldest Brother can eat. There are also pastries and dried fruit on the plates outside.” Lu Gu reached into little Lingjun’s bedding to check. With tangpozi inside, it wasn’t cold at all.  

    After making sure little Lingjun was snug, he took six copper coins strung on a red thread from the table and said, “This is Zhao’er’s New Year’s money. If I don’t wake up, remember to put it by his pillow.”  

    “Got it,” Shen Xuanqing replied. Since it was better for Lu Gu to sleep beside the child in case he woke up crying at night, the task of placing the New Year’s money at midnight would fall to him.  

    New Year’s money was for good luck, so it didn’t need to be much. Six symbolized smoothness - may the child grow up without hardship.  

    The brazier in the middle of the yard occasionally crackled - the sound of burning bamboo. As the night deepened, when midnight arrived, Lu Gu, who hadn’t slept soundly, opened his eyes at the sound of the door. The candles and palace lantern were still lit, Wei Lanxiang had come in.  

    “Mother,” he called softly.  

    Wei Lanxiang waved her hand, signaling him to keep quiet. She stood by the bed, gazing at their little Lingjun, then placed a string of copper coins beside him.  

    Ever since she had two grandchildren, she would always woke up on New Year’s Eve to give them their New Year’s money. Before she could leave, Ji Qiuyue also entered and placed six copper coins.  

    Since he was already awake, Lu Gu made to get up and give Zhao’er his New Year’s money, but Ji Qiuyue stopped him.  

    “Second Brother already gave it. No need to get up, it’s late,” Ji Qiuyue said softly with a smile.  

    As they spoke, little Lingjun, who had been sleeping restlessly all night, began to whimper and cry. Lu Gu quickly patted him to soothe him. Seeing this, Wei Lanxiang and Ji Qiuyue returned to their rooms. In the main hall, Shen Xuanqing and Shen Yaoqing chatted in low voices over drinks. Life was getting better, they could afford chicken, duck, fish, and meat for their own family and guests. The New Year was no longer shrouded in gloom.  

    The six dogs were left to guard the new house. Before returning to the old home in the evening, they were fed plenty of meat and bones so they could also celebrate the New Year.  

    Lu Gu soothed the child back to sleep. At some point, he faintly sensed movement and opened his eyes to see Shen Xuanqing sitting by the bed. Rubbing his eyes, he asked, “What time is it?”  

    “Still early, the sky isn’t light yet. It’s cold outside, so it’s better to sit on the bed and warm up.” Shen Xuanqing trimmed the candlewick before taking off his shoes and climbing into bed. In previous years, even with the brazier for warmth, sitting outside for too long made their feet too cold, so they would return to the room in the latter half of the night.  

    Lu Gu glanced at the child, who was sleeping soundly. Since Shen Xuanqing was keeping watch and he was already awake, he decided to sit up and keep him company.  

    The two chatted for a while. Shen Xuanqing gazed at his fulang by the candlelight, his handsome, strong features seeming to soften. He wanted to take Lu Gu’s hand, but with the child sleeping between them, it wasn’t easy. After murmuring a few words, Lu Gu moved the child to the inner side of the bed.  

    They leaned against the headboard, hand in hand, shoulders touching, a sweet warmth spreading in their hearts. Whispering about future plans, they felt that the best days in the world were just like this.

My Fulang is a Delicate Flower Chapter 29 Part 3

Huang Yinsheng ruffled Ji Taoyu’s hair: "Thankfully, Huo Shu was there to help. Otherwise, this matter would’ve been hard to explain, no matter what you said."  

Ji Yangzong agreed: "That’s right."  

"By the way, is Huo Shu free to come?"  

"He has to slaughter a pig first. He said he’ll come after finishing."  

"That’s good."  

The group walked through the courtyard into the kitchen, where Huang Manjing had already started stewing the chicken, the aroma was already wafting out.  

Ji Taoyu hurried to brew a cup of tea for Huang Yinsheng: "The clinic must be busy. You went out of your way to come to the village just to see me. If you miss me, just send word, I’ll go to the city myself and save you the trip."  

Huang Yinsheng took the tea and said, "My visit to the village this time isn’t just to see you, I also have something to discuss with your father."  

Upon hearing that his father-in-law had come specifically for him, Ji Yangzong’s heart skipped a beat.  

"This matter with the You family… I truly didn’t anticipate it. Back then, I really misjudged them…"  

Huang Yinsheng took a sip of tea. When he heard Ji Yangzong’s words, he chuckled and set the teacup down:  

"Do you think I’d leave my medical practice unattended just to come to the village and scold you? What’s done is done, there’s no point in saying more."  

"Then, Father-in-law, what brings you to the village specifically?"  

At this point, Huang Yinsheng’s expression suddenly turned serious. "Do you know that a couple of days ago, when Fan village was transporting grain into the city, their shipment was robbed by bandits on the official road?"  

"What?!"  

Ji Yangzong’s eyes widened in shock.  

Hearing such news, Taoyu and Huang Manjing quickly gathered around.  

"Such a major incident happening within the prefecture! Fan village is less than fifty li from our village, how come we haven’t heard even a whisper about it?"  

[1 li = 0.5 km]

"Was the stolen grain this year’s autumn harvest, meant to be delivered as taxes to the court?"  

Huang Yinsheng affirmed: "It happened so suddenly that even the authorities didn’t expect these bandits to be so bold as to openly rob the court’s grain."  

Ji Yangzong was incredulous. "Since such a heinous crime has occurred, why hasn’t the government summoned the village heads for a meeting? If bandits dare to plunder openly within Tongzhou’s borders, what if they raid the villages? An early warning would at least let us prepare!"  

"Father-in-law, could this news be mistaken?"  

Huang Yinsheng replied, "I’ve had some dealings with the clerk of the military office in the prefectural yamen. This time, when I went to his home to treat his mother, he confided in me a few words, advising that unless absolutely necessary, we should avoid going out these days."  

"That’s why I didn’t go to the outer prefecture first but came to inform you all. Until the government suppresses the bandit threat, it’s best if none of you venture out."  

Lowering his voice, Huang Yinsheng continued, "Prefect Zhang has been stationed in Tongzhou for five years now. After his performance review by the Ministry of Personnel next spring, he’ll be reassigned. At this critical juncture, if such an incident isn’t handled properly, it’ll damage his reputation. So, the prefecture has suppressed the news for now, dispatching troops to hunt down the bandits and quietly recover the grain, hoping to settle the matter discreetly. That’s why they haven’t publicized it to avoid leaks."  

"As for whether the bandits will raid villages, it’s hard to say. But Mingxun village is only a little over twenty li from the prefectural seat. Even if the bandits intend to plunder, they likely wouldn’t dare cause trouble so close to the city."  

Ji Taoyu opened his mouth to speak: "For the sake of their reputations and performance reviews, the prefectural officials withhold critical news from the common people. Never mind whether the bandits raid villages, what if ordinary farmers and merchants run into them while traveling?!"  

"This is clearly treating the lives of the common people as—"  

He stopped abruptly, realizing he had gotten too worked up. Though he was at home, he still didn’t dare openly criticize officials.  

Huang Yinsheng sighed. "Court officials have always been like this, their careers and achievements come first, the common people last. Even if we resent it, there’s nothing we can do to change it. All we can do is be cautious."  

Ji Yangzong fretted, "The tax collection must be completed, and both the taxes and grain must be delivered to the prefecture for handover before next month. With such chaos outside, what are we to do?"  

"If the grain is lost, it’s a crime punishable by imprisonment."  

"That’s exactly why I came to warn you. While personal safety is paramount, delivering the autumn grain is also a top priority. Pick a day to go to the prefectural yamen and see if they can spare any troops to escort the grain. If not, organize the strong men of the village to transport it together."  

Ji Yangzong frowned deeply, his mind in turmoil over the sudden news:  

"What kind of times are these, that even Tongzhou has spawned such lawlessness? And yet the yamen does nothing, what are we rural farmers supposed to do?"  

"No matter. When the time comes, I’ll accompany the village head to deliver the grain into the city."  

A voice suddenly came from the doorway. Everyone instinctively looked over and saw a tall figure striding in. Their faces brightened with smiles, dispelling the previously tense atmosphere.  

Da Niu had brought Huo Shu along.  

Huo Shu’s gaze first swept over Ji Taoyu before he greeted the others with a nod.  

Huang Manjing quickly brought a stool for Huo Shu, and the family politely urged him to sit: "You’re busy, yet we’ve called you over for a meal, making you run back and forth."  

Rebirth to Erase Dark History Chapter 61 Part 2

After waiting for over an hour, Yang Jiabo finally spotted a familiar figure. He quietly sighed in relief and went up to greet Zhang Wei, who was surprised to see him after so many years. Yang Jiabo suggested walking Zhang Wei home to see his new place, and Zhang Wei agreed. Though they hadn’t been in touch for years, their childhood bond made it hard to refuse. Wei Jing followed silently behind them.  

After just a few steps, a speeding car suddenly lost control and veered onto the sidewalk. Without thinking, Yang Jiabo yanked Zhang Wei backward, hard enough to make him fall. At the same time, another figure pulled Yang Jiabo into a tight embrace as the car barely missed them, crashing into a nearby wall.  

"Are you okay? Did it scare you?" Wei Jing asked worriedly.  

"I’m fine." Yang Jiabo shook his head. The warmth of Wei Jing’s arms slowly steadied his racing heart. He had been so focused on saving Zhang Wei that he hadn’t noticed his own danger. If Wei Jing hadn’t pulled him back, his clothes would’ve been caught on the side mirror.  

Zhang Wei sat pale-faced on the ground, still shaken from nearly becoming roadkill. Once he recovered slightly, Yang Jiabo and Wei Jing escorted him home. Zhang Wei’s parents, upon hearing what happened, were immensely grateful and tried to insist they stay for dinner, but Yang Jiabo politely declined.  

With Zhang Wei safe, the weight crushing Yang Jiabo’s heart finally lifted. Still, he urged Zhang Wei’s parents to keep him indoors for the next few days. Zhang Wei’s mother readily agreed, she also had been terrified by the close call.  

After resolving the matter, Wei Jing saw Yang Jiabo home before returning to his own family. The incident had shaken him badly—he never expected Yang Jiabo’s premonition to come true. Seeing that out-of-control car speeding toward Yang Jiabo had nearly stopped his heart.  

Wei Jing left in a hurry after the festival, not even getting a chance to see Yang Jiabo again, just a brief phone call to say goodbye.  

A few days later, Zhang Wei and his parents came with gifts to thank Yang Jiabo. From them, he learned that the driver had suffered a sudden epileptic seizure, causing the crash. Due to the high speed, the driver died on impact. Zhang Wei’s family repeatedly expressed their gratitude—if not for Yang Jiabo, their son would have been killed.  

When Luo Lixin returned from the holiday and heard about it, he was equally surprised but dismissed it as coincidence. Ding Xiang, upon hearing the news, also visited the farm to thank Yang Jiabo with gifts.  

After this incident, Yang Jiabo’s life returned to normal. Though Wei Jing still called him daily, Yang Jiabo couldn’t shake the feeling that his attitude had grown somewhat… strange.  

"Brother Ren, what exactly did you mean by what you said last time?" After wrestling with his thoughts for a while, Wei Jing invited Ren Boying out for a drink.  

"Everyone thinks I treat Meng Fan like a little brother, but the truth is, I’m in love with him." Ren Boying’s eyes darkened with melancholy. "What do you think your feelings for Yang Jiabo are?"  

"I—" Wei Jing was genuinely lost.  

"You don’t have to tell me. The answer is in your own heart."  

"What about you and Meng Fan, then?" Wei Jing asked.  

"Who knows? Let things take their course." Ren Boying himself was tangled in uncertainty.  

The two drank in silence, each lost in their own thoughts.  

Before Wei Jing could sort out his feelings, news finally came about Wei Feng. He had been injured on a mission and sent back to recuperate. His condition wasn’t promising, if his leg didn’t heal properly, he might be discharged from the military.  

This was a devastating blow to both Wei Feng and Grandpa Wei. Once his condition stabilized, Wei Feng was transferred to the military hospital under Wei Changdong’s jurisdiction. Upon hearing the news, Yang Jiabo went to visit.  

Wei Feng lay listlessly in bed, forcing a strained smile when Yang Jiabo entered. "Jiajia, you’re here."  

"Don’t force a smile if you can’t. It hurts to see."  

"Don’t be sad. The doctors said there’s still some hope." Wei Feng ended up comforting Yang Jiabo instead.  

"He’s right, so you must follow the treatment properly." Song Yufang’s eyes were shadowed with worry.  

Yang Jiabo asked about Wei Feng’s condition and chatted with him for a while, only leaving when Wei Feng grew tired. Before departing, he pulled Song Yufang aside to inquire about Wei Feng’s medical records.  

"Jiajia, do you have some kind of solution?" Song Yufang grabbed his hands eagerly. She and Wei Changdong knew the severity of Wei Feng’s injury, the chances of full recovery were slim. They had only transferred him back for better care.  

"Auntie, don’t get your hopes up. I’m not sure if it’ll work." Yang Jiabo had no confidence in his own idea.  

"It’s alright. We’ll try anything, no matter how small the chance." Song Yufang brought Yang Jiabo to Wei Changdong’s office.

The Rebirth of Crazy ger Chapter 60 Part 2

Yue ger looked devastated. "A-Jin..."  

His voice was barely a whisper, his face pale, the picture of pitiful misery.  

The other ger couldn’t stand it. "Jin ger, you’re going too far! Yue ger has been nothing but good to you, how can you be so ungrateful?"  

"Yue ger, just ignore him!"  

One ger stood up to comfort Yue ger, who took the opportunity to sob quietly, as if heartbroken.  

The more Yue ger cried, the more the others berated Wang Jin, nitpicking everything from his posture to his attitude.  

At first, Wang Jin endured it, letting their words go in one ear and out the other. But they just wouldn’t stop.  

Finally, he’d had enough. He grabbed the bowl of soup and smashed it onto the ground. The shattering porcelain silenced the room, broth splattering everywhere, shards scattering across the floor.  

The ger gasped in horror, shrinking back. Even Yue ger stopped crying, staring at him with reddened eyes.  

Wang Jin snarled, "Who the hell do you think you are?! I told you, how I live is none of your business! What right do you have to judge me? Think I’ve been too nice lately? Don’t forget, I used to be a lunatic! Keep lecturing me and see what happens!"  

His face was terrifyingly fierce, his usual playful eyes now sharp with menace. The gers were suddenly reminded of the deranged madman who would attack anyone who came near, this version of Wang Jin bore an unsettling resemblance.  

Had his madness returned?  

No one dared to speak.  

Wang Jin shot Yue ger one last glare, then called for Mu ger and turned to leave. This time, Yue ger didn’t dare stop him.  

But as Mu ger followed, Yue ger called out to him.  

"A-Mu, A-Jin only keeps you around to weave for him. He doesn’t really see you as a friend—"  

"Yue ger!" Mu ger interrupted, turning to give him a look as if he were an idiot. "Do you really think Brother Heng would adore a ger who can’t do anything? That he’d cherish someone lazy and spoiled?"  

Yue ger froze.  

Mu ger continued, "If you don’t even understand why Brother Heng loves A-Jin so much, how could you ever hope to win his heart?"  

Then, glancing at the cowering gers behind Yue ger, Mu ger raised his voice. "If A-Jin were truly useless, how could there be so many new and practical things in the tribe? All you see now are his flaws, have you already forgotten all the good he’s done?"  

It wasn’t just about creating new things. When Wang Jin had taught the tribe’s gers, he had patiently repeated himself over and over, explaining tirelessly. Despite his delicate fingers, which couldn’t handle rough materials, he had still demonstrated techniques personally, often cutting or scraping himself in the process.  

He was so afraid of pain, yet he endured it to help others, even hiding his injuries afterward to avoid worrying Yuan Heng.  

But they had forgotten all his kindness and consideration.  

Mu ger turned away without another glance and hurried to catch up with Wang Jin. When he did, he found Wang Jin already looking back at him.  

Mu ger smiled slightly and quickened his pace.  

Wang Jin’s mood instantly brightened. Hearing Yue ger’s earlier attempt to drive a wedge between them had made him furious.

How dare that bastard try to meddle with my and A-Mu’s friendship right in front of me?!  

He had been about to turn back and tear into Yue ger when Mu ger beat him to it.  

Unlike the others, Mu ger had defended him unconditionally.  

Wang Jin’s bristling hostility melted away in Mu ger’s presence, his smile softening into something sweet as honey.  

Mu ger’s eyes sparkled with amusement as he pretended to shudder. "Stop smiling at me like that, it’s too mushy. If Brother Heng saw it, he’d get jealous again."  

Wang Jin wrinkled his nose. "He’s not here! And it’s not mushy!"  

"Try smiling like that in a mirror and see for yourself!"  

As the two walked away, Yue ger’s face darkened further.  

Hidden in the shadows, Yu ger, who had witnessed everything, stared after them with gleaming eyes. After shooting Yue ger a hateful glare, he stealthily trailed after Wang Jin and Mu ger.  

On the way back, Mu ger voiced his worries. "A-Jin, as satisfying as that was... will there be consequences?"  

Wang Jin waved a hand. "What consequences? It’s not like they can eat us."  

"But what if the other ger start shunning us again?"  

"They won’t. And even if they do, so what?" Wang Jin laughed. His man had said it didn’t matter, so why should he care?  

"Wasn’t life just fine before?" Besides, he’d get to spend more time with his man.  

"It was fine, but we’re still part of the same tribe..." Mu ger fretted. Now that the adrenaline had worn off, he was starting to regret their impulsiveness.  

Seeing his concern, Wang Jin reassured him, "Really, it’ll be fine. Don’t worry. Only a few gers were in Yue ger’s yard today, most of the tribe wasn’t even there."  

Mu ger said, "But those few are the biggest gossips in the tribe."  

Wang Jin tilted his head thoughtfully. "Then... we’ll just have to give them something else to talk about. Actually, I wanted to show you something. Come on, let’s go to my place."