Chapter 81: Lesson 2
Chen Hu even dared to hit his brothers and parents. His ruthless appearance was really terrifying. Madam Qian was not sure if this was good or bad.
Chen Hu seemed to know Madam Qian's worries. He held her hand and walked toward the kitchen. He lowered his voice and said, "Dear, don't worry. I'll tell you everything later. I've prepared dinner. Let's eat first."
After entering the kitchen, Chen Hu went to scoop rice for Madam Qian. In the past, they could only eat half a bowl of rice, there was no way they could eat meat and they were only given a spoonful of vegetable soup each time. Recalling these bits and pieces, Chen Hu felt bitter.
He pressed the rice down and scooped some meat and soup for Madam Qian. "Dear, eat quickly."
Madam Qian was a little scared. "Chen Hu."
She seemed to guess what was going on, but she didn't dare say it.
Madam Qian looked at Chen Hu quietly. She swallowed and finally said, "Chen Hu, everything will be fine if you apologize to Father and Mother now."
Madam Qian was not afraid of suffering or being burdened. What she was afraid of was that after taking this step, there would be no turning back for them. The world was so big, but there was no place for her children to stay.
Life wasn't good now, but they had a shelter.
Chen Hu looked at Madam Qian indifferently and said calmly, "Dear, I want to take you away to find a way out. Are you willing to come with me?"
He no longer had any hope for this family. Every time he thought of it, he only felt endless pain.
Madam Qian looked into Chen Hu's eyes. She knew that he had made up his mind. Madam Qian shed tears. She smiled at Chen Hu and said, "Chen Hu, why wouldn't I be willing? I'm yours. I'll go wherever you go."
Chen Hu's eyes were slightly red. He said, "Come, let's eat."
......
Madam Qian took the bowl and chopsticks and nodded. "Alright, let's eat together."
Chen Hu gave Chen Daniu and Chen Erniu a full bowl of rice and meat for them to eat.
Chen Daniu and Chen Erniu ate obediently, leaving nothing in their bowls.
Chen Hu looked at what was left in the pot. He gently asked his wife and daughters, "Are you all full?"
Madam Qian said calmly, "I'm full."
Chen Daniu and Chen Erniu nodded as well. They were full. They had never been so full.
Chen Hu smiled and said, "Let's go back to our room to rest."
The family went back to rest.
Chen Hu was afraid that Chen Qiang and Chen Long would take revenge, so he didn't sleep and let Madam Qian sleep with the child.
Madam Qian was tired and quickly fell asleep after feeding her son.
Chen Daniu and Chen Erniu seemed worried. Chen Hu gently stroked his two daughters' hair and said softly, "Go to sleep. Father is watching over you."
It was cold. His two daughters didn't even have cotton clothes, but they had to work in the fields. How cold it was. Even if they were sick, they wouldn't be able to see a doctor. What he had once been unwilling to admit was now turning into knives cutting at his heart.
His parents had never treated him like a son. Even his wife and children were equally disliked. He was able to see it all clearly now.
Leaving was a difficult choice, but it was also the best one.
His idea was for his parents to personally speak up and evict him because he couldn't. If he did, his parents would only be enraged. Not only would they disagree, but they would also torture his family doubly.
Therefore, he might as well play the part of an unfilial son. From now on, he had no brothers or parents in his eyes. He did not work and ate as usual. As long as he showed that he would not change, his parents would never keep him around.
Chen Hu gripped his stick tightly, his eyes cold and ruthless. If Chen Qiang and Chen Long wanted to beat him, he would definitely retaliate.
At this moment, Mother Chen was frowning in the main room.
"Say something, old man. What are we going to do?"
Mother Chen was still angry. Her son, who she thought the least of, was actually going to turn the world upside down. Just thinking about it made her so angry that her heart hurt. However, Chen Hu's ruthless appearance was still fresh in her memory. She really did not dare to provoke him.
Father Chen's face darkened as he said angrily, "It's all your fault. Who asked you to force him? If Madam Qian wants to go through confinement, let her do it. It's not like Daniu and Erniu can't work. Didn't Third Brother also work from morning to night in the fields every day?"
Father Chen was also angry. He didn't dare to criticize Chen Hu now, so he could only vent his anger on Mother Chen and blame her for bullying him too much.
Hearing his words, Mother Chen was angry and aggrieved. Her tears immediately fell, and she said aggrievedly, "Why should I be blamed? When I gave birth, I wasn't so pretentious. I think that Qian is a vixen. She seduced Third Brother's soul and instigated him to break ties with us. This woman is not a good person."
Just thinking about it made Mother Chen angry.
Father Chen glanced at her and said coldly, "It's all your fault. You can't even manage a daughter-in-law properly."
In short, all of this was Mother Chen's fault.
Mother Chen felt terrible, but when she saw Father Chen's gloomy expression, she didn't dare to say anything else.
At night, Mother Chen asked Madam Wu to cook.
When Madam Wu said that she wanted to take care of Chen Long, Mother Chen scolded him for being lazy.
However, when she thought about how her second son had suffered that blow, her heart ached. She decided not to call Madam Wu and went to call Madam Yang instead.
Madam Yang also wanted to play tricks, but Mother Chen was not to be trifled with either. She said fiercely, "Madam Yang, if you don't come, don't be my Chen family's daughter-in-law. If my Chen family can't afford to house a person like you, you can go back to where you came from."
Madam Yang immediately relented and apologized profusely before going to cook with Mother Chen.
Looking at the rice and meat cooked by Chen Hu, Mother Chen's heart ached. She cursed Chen Hu and his family.
He didn't call Chen Hu's family for dinner.
When it was dark and everyone was asleep, Chen Hu's family got up. Chen Hu brought Chen Erniu and Chen Daniu to knead the dough.
Mother Chen and Father Chen, who had already fallen asleep, opened their eyes. Mother Chen cursed, "This unfilial son."
Father Chen said in a low voice, "Bring all the food in here tomorrow morning."
Forget it tonight, they'll let Chen Hu go crazy for another day.
Chen Hu had made egg noodles and was willing to use the ingredients now. The bowl of egg noodles was fragrant. He brought it to Madam Qian.
Madam Qian took it and asked gently, "Dear, have you eaten?"
Chen Hu smiled and said, "There's plenty. Eat as much as you want. If it's not enough, there's more in the pot."
Inside. Everyone in the house is well fed.
She finished eating and went back to the room to sleep.
If she ate well, Madam Qian would have enough milk. The night was quiet. The children were all asleep. Madam Qian knew that Chen Hu was still awake. She whispered, "Dear, where would we go?"
It was going to snow soon, right? Madam Qian recalled that when Su Sanlang's family was removed from the family tree three years ago, it was also snowing heavily.
She'd known then, and her heart ached and she'd sighed, thinking God was blind, but she'd never thought such a thing would fall to her, and now it was her family's turn.
Chapter 82: Chased Out 1
Where could they go? Madam Qian couldn't think of anywhere.
"Don't worry, Third Brother will lend us money. When the time comes, we can build a house and farm some land."
Chen Hu knew that Madam Qian was worried. He comforted her gently.
"When the farmers are busy next year, I can work for the villagers. When they're not busy, we can go to town and find work. As long as we have a place to live, our family won't starve."
Chen Hu became more and more determined. He was not afraid of hardship. He was willing to do any dirty work that others were unwilling to do, so he would definitely be able to survive.
He was not afraid of hardship. He was only afraid that no one would understand his hardship and be slighted.
As long as the people he cared about understood him, he was not afraid of anything. Chen Hu held Madam Qian's hand and said, "Dear, believe me."
Madam Qian held Chen Hu's hand back. She said softly, "I believe you. I'll follow you for the rest of my life. I'll follow you wherever you go."
"Okay."
Chen Hu only replied with one word.
Madam Qian leaned against Chen Hu, and the two of them huddled close together.
The next morning, there was a commotion outside.
Chen Hu got up and realized that it was Mother Chen who had asked Madam Yang and Madam Wu to move all the food in the kitchen to the main room.
......
Mother Chen glared fiercely at Chen Hu.
Chen Hu's cold expression as he held the stick frightened Mother Chen. She wanted to curse him but swallowed her words.
Chen Long and Chen Qiang were also holding clubs, but in the end, they did not dare to make a move.
Chen Hu did not say anything and went straight to the chicken pen to kill the chickens.
Seeing that he wasn't making a fuss, Mother Chen thought that she had suppressed him.
When she heard the rooster crow, Mother Chen immediately reacted. She immediately slapped her thigh and howled, "Damn it, God, why didn't you kill him with lightning?"
Mother Chen howled and ran to the chicken coop. Her anger made her lose her rationality and curse, "You bastard, do you want to die?"
Chen Hu looked at Mother Chen coldly. He did not even take out a knife. He took a bat and hit the chicken's head to smash it. This ruthless method frightened Mother Chen so much that she stopped cursing.
Chen Long, who had followed them, was also shocked.
Chen Hu had smashed the chicken head.
Chen Hu killed two chickens and carried them to the kitchen without a word. He was still holding the bloody cudgel, and no one dared to stop him.
He went to stew the chicken.
When the fragrance of the chicken stew wafted, Mother Chen's father's expression was extremely ugly.
Chen Long and Chen Qiang's children were arguing about eating chicken. As expected, they were beaten up.
After the chicken was stewed, Chen Hu placed it in a large pot and returned to the room to eat with his family.
Even though the food was moved to the main room, Chen Hu kicked open the door and went to get rice to cook. He didn't even put any corn flour in the rice. Mother Chen's heart ached so much that she felt dizzy.
Chen Hu's family ate rice, chicken soup and chicken meat. The food that the rest of the family was eating was no longer fragrant in comparison.
The atmosphere at the dining table was tense. They couldn't wait until tomorrow. Chen Qiang frowned and said, "Father, Mother, we can't let Third Brother continue like this. If this continues, it won't be long before they finish eating everything we have."
When Chen Hu went crazy, he didn't care about anything else. He ate and drank until there was nothing left. If this continued, they would suffer a loss. Their family didn't split up, and Chen Hu ate whatever he wanted. They could die from anger just from thinking about the situation
Chen Long also gritted his teeth and said, "I think he doesn't care about us anymore. If this continues, how will we live? If he doesn't work, what's the use of living!"
Chen Long was even angrier than Chen Qiang. His back was swollen from the beating yesterday and it was very painful. He had not eaten anything good, but Chen Hu had killed chickens and eaten meat. Just thinking about it made Chen Long very angry.
Father Chen was also angry. He slapped his chopsticks and stood up. "I don't believe that he really dares to disobey me. I'll go and ask him. If he still doesn't repent, don't blame me for ruthlessly chasing his family out."
Father Chen walked out. Chen Qiang and Chen Long also got up and followed.
Arriving at the courtyard, Father Chen shouted at the house where Chen Hu and his family lived, "Third Brother, come out."
Chen Hu heard the voice and Madam Qian looked at him worriedly.
Chen Hu nodded at her and took his club out.
He looked coldly at Father Chen and Mother Chen without saying anything.
Father Chen's expression was cold. He gritted his teeth and said, "I'll give you a chance. If you admit your mistake now, we can pretend that nothing happened."
"And then, will it still be like before? Will our family work like cattle and horses for the entire family? Will our family still do the toughest and most tiring work?"
Chen Hu asked coldly.
Although he was disabled and not tall, the work he did was never less than Chen Long and Chen Qiang. The things he picked would not be lighter than theirs', but Chen Long and Chen Qiang could eat their fill while his family could not.
He didn't want to live the way he had before. His parents had never taken his efforts seriously. They had never treated him like a son. Therefore, he didn't want to be their son anymore.
Chen Hu's question undoubtedly angered Father Chen. He snorted coldly. "I think you're too stubborn. In that case, don't blame me for being ruthless and chasing your family out like how the Su family removed Su Sanlang from the family tree."
"Heh, since I refuse to obey, this has to be my fate, right?"
Chen Hu sneered and looked at Father Chen and Mother Chen sarcastically.
Father Chen also snorted. "I want to see if you can be the second Su Sanlang. If you're capable, you can also go into the mountains to fight tigers. If you sell the tigers, you can buy land and build houses. If you don't have the ability, you'll end up dead in a ditch."
Back then, Su Sanlang had fought a tiger. Although he was blinded, many people were still very tempted. There were even families from other villages who had gone hunting tigers. In the end, two of them were bitten to death by the tiger.
After that, everyone lost interest and realized that Su Sanlang was extremely lucky to be able to fight back against the tiger.
Chen Hu's body was not as strong as Su Sanlang's, and he was a cripple. Madam Qian also had a crippled hand, and the two useless girls could not help. They would probably faint from fear when they saw the tiger. Not to mention going to fight the tiger, they would be more likely to die.
If he didn't have that ability and still wanted to turn the world upside down, he should taste the consequences of his actions.
Father Chen looked at Chen Hu coldly, waiting for him to lower his head and admit his mistake.
Chen Hu smiled sarcastically. "In any case, it won't end well. I might as well have a good time."
With that, Chen Hu turned around and returned to the house.
Father and Mother Chen gritted their teeth in anger.
Chen Long and Chen Qiang frowned and looked at their parents.
Father Chen said, "I think he's possessed. Give him another night to consider. If he still doesn't repent tomorrow, go invite the village chief and officer."
Father Chen had already spoken. No matter how angry Chen Long was, he could only endure it.
They thought that after one night, Chen Hu should know how powerful he was and would admit his mistake. But when he woke up the next day, not only did Chen Hu not admit his mistake, he even went to kill two more chickens. This time, Father Chen was completely enraged.
Chapter 83: Chased Out 2
The family didn't even eat breakfast before Chen Long went to invite the village chief and the officer.
Chen Hu's family had also heard Father Chen's instructions.
Mother Chen was cursing in the courtyard. She said that if he ate her chickens, he would die without descendants. He would suffer from illness and die suddenly. He would rot and bleed...
But as soon as Chen Hu came out, Mother Chen immediately ran back to the main house.
Chen Hu returned to the kitchen. Madam Qian looked over worriedly. Madam Chen, Daniu, and Erniu were sitting quietly by the stove.
"Chen Hu."
Madam Qian's heart was a mess. She had heard everything her in-laws said. The thought of her family leaving in the future made her feel uneasy.
Chen Hu smiled at Madam Qian and said, "Don't worry, let's eat first. You raised this chicken. Have more chicken meat and chicken soup later."
Eat everything they hadn't eaten in all the years.
Of course, he knew that he wouldn't be able to eat everything. It was just that he didn't want to make his family suffer these few days. He thought that his parents might be able to tolerate it for five or six days. He didn't expect that in less than two days, they wouldn't be able to tolerate it anymore.
In any case, it was better to leave early.
When the chicken was stewed, Chen Hu told Chen Daniu and Chen Daniu to eat as much as they could.
The family was silent as they drank all the chicken soup. As soon as they finished eating, Chen Long and Chen Qiang invited the village chief and the officer over.
The village chief, Old Master Wang, frowned.
The officer, Old Master Li, was also frowning.
When Father Chen and Mother Chen came out of the main house, Mother Chen beat them to it and said, "Village Chief, officer, you must uphold justice for us. Our family can't afford to have such unfilial children. Remove them and I'll pretend that I never gave birth to this bastard."
Old Master Li looked at Mother Chen and said calmly, "You have to think carefully. Severing ties is not a joke."
Father Chen said seriously, "We've all thought it through. It's really difficult to teach an unfilial son. He doesn't know how to act, he even attacked his parents. I might as well not have this son."
They had already made up their minds. If not for the fact that Chen Hu was still useful, they would have chased him out long ago. The couple had two sons, so it didn't matter if there was one less.
The village chief, Old Master Wang, had a solemn expression. "You have to think carefully. If Chen Hu has a good life in the future, you won't have a chance to regret it."
This has happened twice in the village. Old Master Wang was also very annoyed. What kind of situation was this?
At this moment, Chen Hu's family came out of the kitchen. Madam Qian was carrying her son with Chen Daniu and Chen Erniu beside her. Chen Hu walked to the middle of the courtyard and said nothing.
Mother Chen smelled the fragrance of the meat and gritted her teeth as she cursed, "Eat, eat, eat. I'll curse you to death later."
Old Master Wang sighed and couldn't help but persuade Chen Hu, "Hu, don't be rash. What will happen to your family in the future?"
Chen Hu did not seem to have a healthy body from the way he walked. He was crippled and could even properly.
Life in the Chen family was not easy, but after all, there was a shelter here. If he left, where could he go?
Chen Hu's expression was cold. He smiled sarcastically and said, "Village Chief, look at what our family is wearing. Perhaps after leaving this house, my family will quickly die of cold on an unknown road, but so what?"
He didn't care anymore. He didn't care where he died. He just couldn't die in this house.
"Okay, you said it, so don't blame us for not giving you a chance."
Father Chen's face was ashen. Chen Hu was not satisfied with this life now. He did not think that if they had not given him a home, he would have died long ago. Those who did not know how to be satisfied should suffer.
Chen Hu sneered and said nothing more.
"Since you've both made your decisions and can no longer be mediated, I'll write down a witness statement. Take one each and submit them to the county office for notarization after putting your thumbprints. I'll also say this first. Once it's done, there's no room for regret."
Old Master Li looked at Chen Hu and his family and said solemnly.
"Officer, do it. I have no regrets."
Chen Hu replied decisively.
Father Chen gritted his teeth in anger. "Write it down now. Get them out of our Southern Mountain Village."
Seeing that Chen Hu and Father Chen were so determined, Old Master Li did not say anything else. He took a pen and paper and began to write. When he was done, Chen Hu, Father Chen, and Mother Chen signed their names with their fingerprints. Chen Hu also asked Madam Qian to take the child with her.
After doing all this, Father Chen chased him away coldly. "This family has nothing to do with you now. Leave immediately."
Chen Hu limped away with Madam Qian and the child.
Mother Chen went to scoop a ladle of water and splashed it at them. She scolded, "Get lost."
"Since this is down, we will take our leave."
Seeing that the matter was over, the village chief and officer didn't stay long. They said a few words and left together.
From afar, they could still see the figures of Chen Hu's family. They were dressed thinly and looked extremely pitiful.
Old Master Li sighed and asked, "Su Sanlang's family is doing well now, right?"
"It's okay. They have a good house on some of the land. He just lost an eye fighting a tiger a few years ago."
Old Master Wang replied indifferently.
"This Chen Hu is imitating Su Sanlang, right?"
Old Master Li asked again. He did not live in this village and did not know much.
The village chief, Old Master Wang, nodded. "I think so. Chen Hu and Su Sanlang are friends. Perhaps Chen Hu's family is going to seek refuge with Su Sanlang's family. I wonder if Su Sanlang's family will take them in. If they don't, it will be terrible."
"Although his parents are harsh, they are still family. Why do they have to make such a fuss? If they really have complaints in their hearts, in a few years, when his parents pass away, they can live separately."
Old Master Li sighed. So many people had survived like this. Why did they have to sever ties?
They thought that it would be better if they severed ties. That was because they didn't see those who were left in the wilderness and were eaten by wild beasts.
Su Sanlang's family had settled down, but he had also narrowly escaped death. How lucky was he to be able to fight a tiger? Not everyone had such luck.
In this cold weather, Chen Hu's actions were really unwise and foolish.
Old Master Wang also shook his head and said, "It's too late to say anything now."
There was no going back. It was a done deal.
"I don't know what to say about these people."
Old Master Li shook his head. He didn't know if Chen Hu was confused or impulsive. In short, such behavior was definitely not good.
Just because Su Sanlang's family had settled down did not mean that life was easy. It was not easy to take in a family. Who would want to bear such a huge responsibility?
But no matter what, that was the choice of Chen Hu's family. Whether they regretted it or not was their business.
Chapter 84: Sworn Brothers
Chen Hu brought Madam Qian and the children out of the village to Su Sanlang's house.
Madam Qian looked at Chen Hu nervously. Her face was pale from the cold as she held her sleeping son tightly.
Chen Daniu and Chen Erniu were also very quiet.
Chen Hu took a deep breath and knocked on the door.
Madam Zhao was washing clothes in the courtyard. When she heard the knock on the door, she quickly opened it.
Opening the door, Madam Zhao smiled when she saw Chen Hu's family. She went forward and held Madam Qian's arm. "Come in quickly. Sanlang has already told me everything. Don't worry, stay here first."
Madam Zhao had always been very kind. Madam Qian's personality was similar to hers. The two of them had not interacted much. In the past, they only smiled at each other when they met.
Ever since she moved here and did not need to enter the village to work, she had not seen Madam Qian.
Now that she saw Madam Qian, it was as if she saw her past self. She knew that Madam Qian was definitely hesitant and afraid. Since Su Sanlang said that he wanted to become sworn brothers with Chen Hu, Madam Qian would be her sister.
Regardless of what happened in the future, at least for now, she would treat Madam Qian well.
"Thank you, sister-in-law."
Madam Qian almost burst into tears.
Chen Hu also had a lump in his throat. When he entered the courtyard, he saw Su Xiaolu, her siblings, and an unfamiliar child sitting in a wooden wheelchair.
......
A few months ago, Old Wu had returned to the village. Everyone said that he had brought back a disabled grandson. Now that he saw Zhou Heng, Chen Hu thought that this should be Old Wu's disabled grandson.
"Daniu, Erniu, come and play. We're learning to read. You should come too."
Su Xiaoling had already returned to the house to get cotton-padded clothes. As she spoke, she walked over to Chen Xiaoniu and Chen Erniu to help them put them on. Then, she pulled Chen Xiaoniu and Chen Erniu over to see them write and read.
Madam Zhao brought Chen Hu and Madam Qian into the house.
This was supposed to be Su Hua's room, but now it was vacated for Chen Hu and his family.
There were ready-made beds and blankets. The house was clean and bright, and there were neatly folded clothes on the bed.
It was enough to show that the person who had cleaned up had put in the effort.
Madam Zhao said gently, "Brother Hu, you can stay here for the time being. Don't worry about food. Just eat with us. Sanlang said that we'll eat together before your new house is built."
Madam Zhao shed tears. She looked at Madam Zhao and said in a choked voice, "Sister-in-law, thank you for taking us in."
Chen Hu bowed three times to Madam Zhao.
Madam Zhao hurriedly waved her hand to avoid him.
"The days ahead will definitely get better and better."
Madam Zhao said sincerely.
She knew that Chen Hu and Madam Qian needed space to calm down, so Madam Zhao smiled gently and left.
After Madam Zhao left, Chen Hu walked to Madam Qian's side and hugged her. "Dear, don't worry. I will definitely work hard to repay the money Third Brother lent us in the future. If I can't pay it back, when our son grows up, he will pay it back."
Madam Qian nodded and looked at the sleeping child in her arms. She said softly, "Dear, let's give the child a name."
Chen Hu pondered for a moment before saying, "Just call him Chen?Shi1. In the future, he will be an honest person and do the right things."
"Okay, Shi will live up to your expectations. He'll do it."
Madam Qian looked at the child gently. Today was a new beginning.
The word "Shi" represents many things. She liked this word and the name Chen Shi.
Chen Hu and his family stayed, and he was glad when Su Sanlang returned with firewood in the afternoon.
On this day, he and Madam Zhao prepared a table full of dishes.
Chen Hu also helped out.
Su Sanlang also gave Chen Hu the hundred taels of silver he promised.
Chen Daniu and Chen Erniu were quietly listening to Zhou Heng's teaching in the courtyard. They did not understand, but it did not stop them from listening.
Su Xiaolu was drawing on the ground while reading a medical book.
The Su family did not act any differently upon the arrival of the Chen family.
After learning time was over, Su Xiaolu administered acupuncture to Su Chong, Su Hua, and Zhou Heng as usual.
Chen Erniu had already seen it once, but when she saw it again, her jaw still dropped.
Chen Daniu was stunned. She was so stunned that she could not speak. She looked at Su Xiaoling, as if to confirm if this was a joke.
Su Xiaoling was filled with pride. She smiled gently and said, "Daniu, Erniu, don't be afraid. Xiaolu is very smart. She's studying medicine. Doctor Wu said that she's gifted."
There was admiration in their eyes.
By nightfall, Old Wu had also returned, bearing witness to Su Sanlang and Chen Hu becoming sworn brothers.
Chen Hu respectfully called out to Su Sanlang, "Big Brother, Sister-in-law, thank you."
From now on, Chen Hu would call Su Sanlang and Madam Zhao big brother and sister-in-law.
Madam Zhao helped Madam Qian up.
"Alright, from now on, we're a family. Daniu and Erniu are older than Simei. From now on, just call the others big brothers and sisters like Xiaolu. Xiaolu will also have two older sisters and a younger brother in the future."
Su Sanlang was secretly pleased. Now that they had acknowledged each other, they would be family from now on.
Chen Hu nodded and solemnly said to Chen Daniu and Chen Erniu, "Daniu, Erniu, from now on, Chong, Hua, and Simei will be your older brothers and sister. Simei will also be your younger sister, understand?"
Chen Daniu and Chen Erniu nodded obediently.
They all knew that their family and the Su family would be a big family in the future. Su Xiaolu was their younger sister, and Su Xiaoling was their older sister.
As they ate the warm food, something warmed their hearts.
Memories of this scene were also deeply engraved in their minds. When they grew up, they would still find it sweet when they thought about it. Such sweetness would accompany them through all their difficulties.
After dinner, Madam Qian wanted to help clean up.
Madam Zhao quickly stopped her and said, "Sister-in-law, your body is weak. Rest for another month."
Su Sanlang quickly said, "Sister-in-law, let me and your sister-in-law do it."
Madam Qian's eyes turned red. She wanted to say something, but Chen Hu said first, "Dear, listen to Sister-in-law. You and Sister-in-law should rest. Brother and I will clean up."
Chen Hu smiled at Su Sanlang and said, "Don't you think so, Big Brother?"
Su Sanlang smiled and nodded. "Right. You all get some rest."
Su Sanlang and Chen Hu were like real brothers. They had a deep relationship and were like family.
Old Wu looked at the two families and clicked his tongue in discomfort.
As for Zhou Heng, he no longer needed to take care of him. Other than taking out the medicine on time, he could completely ignore him.
After washing up, he went back to his room to sleep.
Chen Erniu and Chen Erniu slept with Su Xiaoling and Su Xiaolu.
Zhou Heng, Su Chong, and Su Hua slept together.
After falling asleep, Zhou Heng suddenly said, "Ah Chong, Ah Hua, let me teach you an idiom. It's used to describe the deep relationship between brothers. This idiom is called 'Brothers in Arms'."
Chapter 85: Brothers in Arms 1
"Brothers in arms."
Suhua murmured the words.
Su Chong couldn't help but mutter, "A good relationship? How good is it? Is it as good as me, Little Brother Hua, and Little Brother Heng?"
"Yes, just like us. Brothers have deep feelings for each other. Just like our hands and feet. They're incomparably precious to us. Nothing else in the world is so precious."
Zhou Heng curled his lips slightly and explained to Su Chong.
Su Chong was very happy. He said happily, "Little Brother Hua is my right hand, Little Brother Heng is my left hand. You're all very important. I like you."
At this moment, Su Chong understood what it meant to be brothers in arms. It turned out that the three of them were brothers in arms.
Su Hua asked, "Little Brother Heng, Big Brother and I were born to the same parents. Do you also have brothers? Who are your parents? Will you return to them?"
Su Hua understood more things than Su Chong, and he thought about more questions. He was a little curious about whether Su Hua had a brother, where he came from, and who his parents were.
"Oh, right. Why didn't I think of that? Brother Hua is so smart. Heehee."
After Su Hua finished asking, Su Chong belatedly reacted. He was a little depressed that he had not thought of it and was also a little proud of his brother's intelligence.
Zhou Heng paused for a moment before saying, "I don't have an elder brother. I have a younger brother. He has a bad leg like me. His name is Zhou Zhi. The word 'Zhi' stands for genuinity. He was born with me. I'm the elder brother. We have a good relationship. It's just that... Some reasons separated us. I came here, but he stayed at home."
As he spoke, Zhou Heng fell silent.
He fell silent, and Su Chong and Su Hua did not pursue the matter.
Soon, Su Chong fell asleep.
Listening to Su Chong's breathing, Zhou Heng sighed and said in a low voice, "When there's no more danger, I'll go back. Perhaps next year, or for many years later... Or perhaps I won't have to go back."
As he thought about it, Zhou Heng felt a little lonely.
He thought Su Hua was asleep too, which was why he said that, but what he didn't know was that he wasn't.
"Little Brother Heng, I promise you that if you can't go home, Big Brother and I will always be good to you. Us. Brothers in arms."
Su Hua spoke quietly and seriously.
Zhou Heng was stunned. He swallowed and said softly, "Yes, thank you, Hua."
Although he had come to a very unfamiliar place, he had also gained very precious friendships.
These were all rare treasures, things that no amount of money could buy.
Last time, Chen Hu helped Su Sanlang build a house.
This time, Su Sanlang also helped Chen Hu build his house.
He also went with Chen Hu to buy four acres of land for Chen Hu's family to rely on. After settling the title deed, Chen Hu's eyes were red.
No words could express the gratitude in his heart. He only secretly noted this favor.
Chen Hu's house was built next to Su Sanlang's house, only an acre away.
Chen Hu had been removed from the family tree. Not only was he not in trouble, but he had also bought land to build a house. This winter, the villagers had something to talk about after dinner.
Some people said that Chen Hu was instigated by Su Sanlang, while others said that Su Sanlang had no conscience. They said that he had money to give to outsiders but not to his parents.
But no matter how those rumors spread, Su Sanlang's family never took them seriously.
Chen Hu wouldn't care either.
From the beginning to the end, only their parents and brothers treated Chen Hu and Su Sanlang's families as enemies. The others in the village still interacted normally and did not befriend them or become enemies with them. Everyone minded their own business.
By late December, Chen Hu's house was almost finished. He did not build a big house. It was just a central room with four rooms on the left and right.
The kitchen and the main room were together. The room behind the main room was the couple's room.
The two rooms on the left of the central room were where Chen Daniu and Chen Erniu lived. The two sisters lived in one room, and the other room was Chen Shi's.
The backyard was fenced up with fences and sheds. They did not make a wall to surround the yard. The house cost only twenty taels of silver. Adding to the purchase of four acres, Chen Hu used fifty taels in total. He returned the remaining fifty taels to Su Sanlang and once again wrote a new receipt for a loan.
On December 22nd, on the morning that Chen Hu's family was moving to their new home, Chen Hu bought wine.
He and Madam Qian poured alcohol and stood up to toast Madam Zhao and Su Sanlang. The couple's eyes were red. Chen Hu said, "Big Brother, Sister-in-law, thank you for taking care of us. We will never forget this kindness for the rest of our lives. There are thousands of words that can't express the gratitude in my heart. This glass of alcohol is for you."
Su Sanlang and Madam Zhao also stood up. They only smiled.
Su Sanlang said, "I wish your family the best. I hope Daniu and Erniu are obedient, and for Shi to study well in the future and bring honor to your family, Huzi."
Madam Zhao said, "Sister-in-law, I also wish your family health and happiness."
"Big Brother, Sister-in-law, thank you. Thank you."
Chen Hu raised his head and drank. Tears flowed down his face along with the wine. He thought that he must have done a lot of good in his previous life to have met a brother like Su Sanlang in this life. When he was young, he saved his life. When he grew up, he saved his entire family.
Madam Qian was also very grateful. In the past month or so, Madam Zhao did not ask her to do anything. She only asked her to rest through confinement. She was only allowed to help with the dishes when Chen Shi was a month old.
Their family had been eating and drinking at the Su family's house. In the past month or so, the family had gained weight. Looking at her rosy-faced daughters, Madam Qian felt too much gratitude. She thought that since she had recovered, there would always be a chance to repay her in the future.
Su Sanlang and Madam Zhao also drank.
Chen Hu toasted Old Wu again. He said, "Doctor Wu, thank you for treating my wife. and bringing us the medicine. Tomorrow, when the chickens and ducks at home are ready, if you don't mind, you can have some to eat with your wine."
Old Wu waved his hand and drank without saying a word.
He was most annoyed at times like this. It was sickening.
Chen Hu also understood Old Wu's personality. After drinking, everyone ate happily.
After dinner, Su Sanlang and Madam Zhao helped Chen Hu and his family with their things.
Chen Hu refused to take rice no matter what, but Su Sanlang and Madam Zhao forcibly gave him 50 catties of rice, as well as 400 catties of corn. The vegetables in the vegetable field could always be plucked and eaten.
Since Madam Qian had already sown vegetables in their own vegetable field from the time they started to build the house, they had already grown quite well and could be eaten now.
Madam Zhao gave Madam Qian two pairs of chickens, two males and two females, a total of four chickens.
Chapter 86: Brothers in Arms 2
Chen Hu and Madam Qian had moved them while crying. They understood too well that these things were all heavy sentiments.
These things were Big Brother and Sister-in-law's blessings and expectations for their family. They were pure, warm, and sweet.
Chen Daniu carried Chen Shi and listened to Zhou Heng teach in the courtyard with Chen Erniu. They were very reluctant to leave.
This was the first time they had come into contact with knowledge. After staying here for more than a month, Chen Daniu and Chen Erniu also learned how to write their names. They even knew a lot of words. This was very precious to them.
If they wanted to learn knowledge now, they had to go to school. Going to school cost money. With Zhou Heng, the knowledge they learned was all for free.
"Big Sister Erniu, you have to come to my house every day to play."
Su Xiaolu ran to Chen Daniu and Chen Erniu and smiled sweetly at them.
"Yes, every day. Little Brother Heng says we are brother and sister. We can be brothers in arms too. You and Erniu and Xiaolu and Sanmei. The same."
Su Chong said seriously. He had always known that he was their big brother. Now that he was enlightened, he understood what being a big brother meant.
He was the oldest brother. He was the eldest of them all.
"Little Brother Heng will teach us how to read every day. Let's learn how to read together. When brother Shi grows up, you can teach him."
Su Xiaoling also spoke to the two sisters.
Chen Daniu and Chen Erniu's eyes were red and filled with tears. They nodded heavily.
......
When everything was moved, Su Sanlang's family went to Chen Hu's house.
Su Chong happily carried Zhou Heng on his back while Su Hua carried Zhou Heng's wooden wheelchair.
The people started to clean up Chen Hu's house.
They had dinner at Chen Hu's house, so they naturally drank happily.
Su Sanlang and Madam Zhao knew best how happy Chen Hu and Madam Qian were because they had also experienced such a day three years ago.
They would never be able to forget that day.
After dinner, Su Sanlang and his family returned to their house.
The days passed as usual.
The New Year was coming soon.
The number of needles Su Xiaolu used for Zhou Heng's acupuncture was gradually decreasing.
December 30th. New Year's Day.
Su Xiaolu had just finished acupuncture for Zhou Heng. She took out the needles and said, "Big Brother Zhou Heng, from tomorrow onwards, you will start walking. Work hard."
Zhou Heng smiled and nodded. "Yes, I'll work hard."
It had been three years since his legs had allowed him to walk. Now that he could finally feel them again, he must stand up and live up to the care and concern of so many people.
A few days ago, Su Sanlang had made a pair of training poles for Zhou Heng in the courtyard. Su Sanlang had carefully polished the edges and corners. Even the ground was covered with a layer of straw. How could he let Zhou Heng down?
Su Xiaolu stopped smiling and said seriously, "Even if you don't work hard, I'll make you work hard. I'm a doctor. You have to listen to me. If you don't, I'll hit your palm like you did when you taught us to read."
The principle of teaching was set by Zhou Heng.
Whoever was distracted and fooling around would be hit in the palm by the bamboo block. Zhou Heng had beaten all of them.
Su Xiaolu learned how to use it now.
"Xiaolu, aren't you afraid that Little Brother Heng won't turn a blind eye in the future?"
Su Xiaoling covered her mouth and laughed. Usually, Su Xiaolu would be beaten up the most in class, but Zhou Heng could not bear to beat her up again. Everyone tacitly agreed with Zhou Heng's biased behavior.
Su Xiaolu smiled and shook her head. "Third Sister, I'm not afraid with you protecting me."
Su Xiaoling was a little helpless. She stroked Su Xiaolu's hair lovingly. "What should I do with you."
She would indeed protect her most beloved sister.
As for being beaten up, Zhou Heng was also gentle when he hit her. He did not forget her kindness to him.
It could be said that Heng was gentle to girls, but was stricter with his two brothers.
Su Xiaoling had also thought about it. Perhaps it was because they were girls and it was enough that they could read, and they did not need to take the scholarly examination. However, Su Chong and Su Hua were different. They were going to school after the New Year.
Zhou Heng smiled gently and said teasingly, "Then please show mercy, Xiaolu."
Su Xiaolu winked playfully. "I'll see how it goes."
They all laughed.
Old Wu came in from outside and coughed twice. "Su Xiaolu, come and help me brew medicine."
Su Xiaolu had been called away by Old Wu.
Su Sanlang and Madam Zhao were cooking New Year's Eve dinner.
The couple listened to bits of warm laughter, and they couldn't help but smile.
Madam Zhaosaid gently, "Darling, it's been another year."
After four years in this house, the youngest daughter they held in their arms had grown up, and their eldest son and second son had also improved. Madam Zhao couldn't help but sigh.
Their family was getting better, but one thing that would never get better was Su Sanlang's eyes.
No matter how many years had passed, Madam Zhao was still very sad when she thought about it.
Su Sanlang looked at Madam Zhao and smiled gently. "It's been another year. Every year is better. We have to live well and see Chong and Hua grow up to be successful."
Su Sanlang looked at Madam Zhao gently. Looking at Madam Zhao's gentle and bright face, Su Sanlang felt a warmth in his heart. These days were the days he had dreamed of.
And now, he had another brother. Everything was fine.
Madam Zhao smiled and nodded. "You're right. We have to be healthy every year. Our lives will get better and better. We have to see Sanmei and Simei get married and have children and grandchildren."
As she thought about it, Madam Zhao felt the urge to cry.
She didn't think she could change this for the rest of her life. She always wanted to cry no matter if she was feeling happy or sad.
"Darling, I remember that you bought two fish. Send one to Hu. It has a good meaning. It stands for our wish for their family to be prosperous."
Last year, during the new year, their family bought fish because the fish seller said that eating fish during the new year would bring prosperity.
Su Sanlang thought that the meaning was really good, so he bought fish. This year, he naturally bought more. Thinking that most of the children at home liked to eat fish, he bought two.
Chen Hu's family had a new home, so they naturally had to manage their lives. When they bought the fish, Su Sanlang really didn't think about the whole thing, but now that Madam Zhao mentioned it, Su Sanlang thought about it and nodded.
"Darling, you're right. I'll listen to you. It won't take long. Let's go together."
Su Sanlang said with a smile.
Madam Zhao nodded, and the two of them took the fish and went out.
Chen Hu and Madam Qian were also busy with the New Year's Eve dinner. When they heard the knock on the door, Madam Qian opened the door. When she saw Madam Zhao, she cried in surprise and exclaimed, "Dear, come and see who's here."
When Chen Hu came out, his eyes turned red. "Big Brother, Sister-in-law."
Su Sanlang and Madam Zhao smiled. Su Sanlang said, "Brother Hu, Sister-in-law, this fish is for you. We wish you all good luck every year."
Chapter 87: The Fourth Year
Madam Zhao handed the fish over and said gently, "Hu. Sister-in-law. Quick, take it."
Chen Hu and Madam Qian received it with red eyes.
Su Sanlang and Madam Zhao smiled and said, "Alright, the fish has been delivered. We'll go back and cook."
Chen Hu and Madam Qian wanted them to stay, but when they saw Su Sanlang and Madam Zhao holding hands and going home, Madam Qian pulled Chen Hu and whispered, "Dear, let's go home and cook fish too. With Big Brother and Sister-in-law's blessings, we will definitely be able to live a better life, just like Big Brother and Sister-in-law."
Chen Hu nodded firmly. He glanced gently at Madam Qian beside him and smoothed the hair on her cheek, revealing the scar on her face.
Madam Qian was a little shocked. The scar on her face always made her feel so inferior that she did not dare to look up to others. In the past, when she was in the Chen family, Madam Yang and Madam Wu always said that her scar was ugly and scary.
Chen Hu seemed to know Madam Qian's thoughts. He said gently, "Dear, let's not hide it anymore. Let's hold our heads high in the future. No matter what others say, don't care about them. As long as our family is together, as long as I'm with you, it's enough."
Perhaps she had always hunched in the past. Madam Qian was really a little hunchbacked. Chen Hu felt a little sad.
He would deliberately walk slowly so that no one would see that he was a cripple. Madam Qian would cover half her face with her hair so that no one could see the scars on her face, but in the end, what did they get in return?
Others would still laugh at him for being a cripple, or that the scars on Madam Qian's face were terrifying, or that her hand with only one thumb was terrifying.
But in the future, none of that would matter. If anyone insulted them, he wouldn't swallow his pride. He'd say, "If you think it's scary, don't look."
Madam Qian was still a little uncomfortable. She reached out a trembling hand to pull her hair down. Chen Hu held her hand and said, "Darling, it's not scary at all. You're very good-looking and not ugly at all. I'm really lucky to have married you."
Madam Qian was not good-looking, but she was not ugly either. Her features were actually very delicate.
......
It was the scar on her face that made her feel too inferior. But if not for that, why would she marry him?
These could no longer be changed. Chen Hu only hoped that he and Madam Qian would live comfortably and happily in the future.
Madam Qian slowly lowered her hand.
Chen Daniu and Chen Erniu ran to Madam Qian. The two of them hugged Madam Qian's waist happily and called her sweetly, "Mother."
Madam Qian stroked her daughters' heads and nodded tearfully. The family went into the house.
As for Madam Zhao, she was already preparing to fry the fish.
A braised fish was quickly served.
The New Year's Eve dinner was ready when the sun set.
Madam Zhao set up the dishes while Su Sanlang called everyone to eat.
Su Chong immediately carried Zhou Heng on his back. Su Hua pushed the wooden wheelchair and went to eat with Su Xiaoling and Su Xiaolu.
Old Wu liked to drink. Of course, he liked good wine during the new year.
This year's New Year's Eve dinner was very sumptuous. There was a very large braised fish, a stewed pork trotter, braised chicken, salt peanuts, and the pickled vegetables made by Madam Zhao, as well as a vegetable soup.
The dishes were still warm.
Old Wu didn't care about those cumbersome formalities. He just picked up his chopsticks and said casually, "I'll celebrate with you guys this year. I don't like to say much, so I'll just wish everyone a happy New Year. Happy New Year."
"It's New Year's money for the kids. Come on, everyone gets one."
Old Wu took out the red packets he had prepared and gave one to each of them.
He did not hide his favoritism at all and gave the biggest one to Su Xiaolu with a smile. "Good disciple, learn well. It will be easy for you to become a master in three years."
Su Xiaolu nodded with a smile. "Thank you, Master."
The money bag was a little heavy. Old Wu was very generous. Although this old man didn't say much and didn't like to talk much, he had always been sincere in doing things. He was much better than those who didn't do anything at all.
After receiving Old Wu's New Year money, Su Xiaoling also thanked him respectfully, "Thank you, Uncle-Master. I wish you a healthy and long life."
Su Chong and Su Hua also stood up. "Thank you, Uncle-Master."
Zhou Heng looked at Old Wu and said, "Thank you, Uncle-Master. I wish you success."
Old Wu snorted coldly and took a sip of wine alone.
Su Sanlang had also prepared New Year's money for the children, but there were only two coppers inside...
Old Wu's heavy weight made Su Sanlang feel a little embarrassed, but only for a while. New Year's money was a kind of expectation and blessing from an elder to a child. It didn't matter how much. Just this thought was enough.
Su Sanlang took out his red packets and started with Su Chong.
He was more talkative. He patted Su Chong's head and said, "Chong, you're the big brother. Remember to protect your younger siblings."
Su Chong nodded and said seriously, "Father, don't worry. I'll remember."
Su Sanlang then gave one to Su Hua. He stroked Su Hua's head and said, "Hua, you're the second brother. You have to protect your younger siblings and respect your big brother, understand?"
Su Hua looked at Su Chong and nodded. "Father, I will."
He and Su Chong already knew that they were different from the rest, but he knew more than Su Chong did. He also knew that he was actually smart. Knowing this, he also understood that he should do more than his big brother.
Whatever Big Brother did not think of, he should consider carefully.
Su Sanlang looked at the sensible Su Hua and felt very relieved. He smiled gently and went to Zhou Heng's side.
Su Sanlang handed the red packet to Zhou Heng and said, "Heng, I wish you good health and success."
Su Sanlang did not say the same words to Zhou Heng as he did to Su Chong and Su Hua. This was because Zhou Heng was not his son. When Zhou Heng was here, he would do his best to treat him well. It was enough to do everything well.
Zhou Heng nodded. He said gently to Su Sanlang, "Thank you, Third Uncle. I also wish you all the best and for the family to be happy."
Su Sanlang nodded. He raised his hand to touch Zhou Heng's hair, but in the end, he put it down. He turned and walked to Su Xiaoling's side.
When Zhou Heng saw this detail, he actually did not resist. He even looked forward to it. However, in the end, Su Sanlang did not do anything so intimate. Perhaps he had some reservations.
Zhou Heng was vaguely disappointed, but he was also happy because Su Sanlang respected him. From his actions, he could tell that Su Sanlang was a very good father.
Su Sanlang stroked Su Xiaoling's hair and said gently, "Third Sister, you've worked hard. You have to be happy in the new year."
Su Sanlang did not ask Su Xiaoling to take care of her sister or brother. Instead, he said that it had been hard on her.
His third daughter had been working hard all these years, but from now on, she could finally stop working so hard and just be happy and grow up.
Chapter 88: Zhou Heng Stands Up
Su Sanmei felt a lump in her throat and nodded obediently. "Thank you, Father. I've always been happy."
For a child, she had endured something she shouldn't have, but she had, and she felt happy, too, knowing that her family loved her back.
Even when Su Chong and Su Hua were mentally impaired, they knew to dote on her as a sister. They never knew what to do, but what she asked them to do, they always did well.
Even her youngest sister was loving her in her own way. She had learned it already, but pretended not to know it for her sake. She had known it all along.
So, with so much love, she had always been happy.
Su Xiaoling lowered her eyes and smiled slightly.
Su Sanlang stroked Su Xiaolu's hair and looked into her lively and beautiful eyes. He said gently, "Xialu, you have to grow up happy too."
Su Xiaolu smiled sweetly. She pulled Su Sanlang's head down and kissed his cheek. "Thank you, father. Father and mother must also be happy and live a long life."
Su Xiaolu was next to Madam Zhao. She turned around and leaned into Madam Zhao's arms, acting cute.
Madam Zhao's heart almost melted. She touched Su Xiaolu's hair with tears in her eyes.
Su Sanlang returned to his seat and sat down. He said respectfully to Old Wu, "Big Brother, let's eat."
Old Wu was getting tired of waiting. He nodded. "Then let's eat."
The dishes were getting cold. Alas, that was annoying lyricism.
......
After Old Wu started eating, everyone started eating.
The Su family had always been very focused on eating. They ate the dishes in peace.
Su Sanlang drank with Old Wu.
The meal lasted until dark.
Old Wu went back next door to sleep after getting drunk.
Su Sanlang was also drunk. He really wanted to sleep, but he was still thinking about the bowls and chopsticks. He said to Madam Zhao, who was supporting him, "Dear, tomorrow... clean up..."
Madam Zhao smiled and said, "Okay, okay, okay. I understand. Don't worry and sleep."
Looking at Su Sanlang, who was still thinking about her despite being drunk, Madam Zhao's gaze was very gentle.
She gently stroked his face, then got up and went out to clean up.
Su Xiaoling had already come to help. Even Su Xiaolu had come to help.
Madam Zhao's heart was warm and sweet. She gently stroked her two daughters' hair and said, "I don't need your help. Go wash up and sleep."
There were no rules at home, so they could sleep after eating New Year's Eve dinner. It was just that the fire in the stove kept the hot water warm.
Su Xiaoling smiled and said, "Mother, Xiaolu and I will help you wash up before sleeping."
Su Xiaolu nodded and said, "Mother, trust me. I will definitely do it well."
Madam Zhao smiled and nodded. "Alright then."
The mother and daughters cleaned the dishes together.
When Su Hua returned with the foot basin, he said to Madam Zhao guiltily, "Mother, I'm sorry. I should have come earlier."
When he was washing Zhou Heng's feet, Zhou Heng was also teaching him. Since it would take a while to soak his feet anyway, he focused on learning.
Madam Zhao said gently, "I don't need your help with such a small matter. Wash up and go to sleep. Take care of Heng at night."
Zhou Heng was so sensible that it made one's heart ache. Madam Zhao always instructed Su Chong and Su Hua to take care of Zhou Heng.
Su Hua nodded. "Yes, yes, I will."
Su Xiaolu and Su Xiaoling also went to wash up and return to their rooms.
As soon as Su Xiaolu fell asleep, she entered the Space to look at the herbs she had planted.
The two visible acres of black soil were filled with medicinal herbs, many of which were common. The only relatively precious herb was ginseng that she had encountered and dug herself. It was growing very well now.
The common medicinal herbs grew well, and the spiritual spring water was still full of spiritual energy. The water flow had always been flowing, but outside these two acres, it was all white. She touched the edge as if there was an invisible protective shield isolating it.
She hadn't paid attention to it since the first time she came here.
She was not in a hurry to harvest the medicinal herbs planted. These were commonly used to stop bleeding, prevent colds, and treat high fever and stomach aches.
She hadn't had a chance to use it, and she didn't know how effective it would be.
She looked around her domain like a lord, then left the Space to sleep.
It was the first day of the new year.
After the New Year, Su Xiaolu finished administering acupuncture to Zhou Heng at noon. After applying medicine to his leg, she said, "Big Brother, Second Brother, carry Brother Zhou Heng outside. From today onwards, he will practice walking."
Su Chong and Su Hua immediately did as they were told.
This was Zhou Heng's first time practicing walking. Even Old Wu was watching with him.
Su Sanlang and Madam Zhao also followed. After a while, the family surrounded the two poles that Su Sanlang had built.
Su Chong put Zhou Heng back in the wooden wheelchair.
Zhou Heng looked at the two poles in front of him. He was a little nervous. He had not walked for three years. Could he really stand up again?
"I'm sure you can, Little Brother Heng."
Su Xiaoling looked at Zhou Heng firmly. She believed that Zhou Heng would definitely be able to stand up.
Zhou Heng glanced at Su Xiaoling and turned around. He took a deep breath and reached out to grab the two poles. Then, he stood up with trembling feet.
The moment he stood up, he felt the excruciating pain. It crawled up his entire body from the soles of his feet. In an instant, his face turned pale from the pain. He placed the bars under his armpits and leaned his weight against them to prevent himself from falling back into the wooden wheelchair.
The sight made everyone nervous.
"Little Brother Heng, you can definitely do it. You're the most powerful Little Brother Heng."
Su Chong clenched his fists and shouted firmly at Zhou Heng.
Su Hua also shouted, "Yes, Little Brother Heng is the most powerful. You can definitely do it."
"Big Brother Zhou Heng is the best."
Su Xiaolu also clenched her fists and made a cheering gesture.
"Heng is the best."
Su Sanlang and Madam Zhao also encouraged Zhou Heng.
Old Wu coughed lightly and said uncomfortably, "Hang in there. You can do it."
With that, he turned around and left.
He'd better not look at something so emotional. He didn't like it at all.
It was only a matter of time before Zhou Heng could stand up again. The Su family was too agitated. There was no need.
After Old Man Wu left, Su Sanlang's family still encouraged Zhou Heng enthusiastically. With every step he took, they encouraged him. They seemed to be even happier than Zhou Heng.
Su Sanlang and Madam Zhao's eyes turned red.
Zhou Heng had only taken ten steps and was already sweating profusely. His legs kept trembling. Every step he took, he wanted to sit back in the comfortable wooden wheelchair. However, every time, he thought that with such a family taking care of him and encouraging him to stand up again, how could he disappoint them? How could he make such sparkling eyes dim? Therefore, every time he felt that he could not hold on anymore, he persevered.
Chapter 89: Keep Walking 1
Zhou Heng did not expect himself to walk more than 30 steps.
He wanted to walk 30 more steps, but Su Xiaolu said, "Big Brother Zhou Heng is awesome. The first practice is over. Let's continue tomorrow."
As soon as Su Xiaolu finished speaking, Su Chong and Su Hua immediately went forward to help Zhou Heng back to the wooden wheelchair.
"Don't worry, Heng. Take your time. You'll be fine before long. Rest well now."
Madam Zhou said gently to Zhou Heng.
Zhou Heng nodded.
Su Chong and Su Hua carried Zhou Heng back to his room together. Su Xiaolu tore off the ointment that she had applied on him and said to Su Xiaoling, "Third Sister, help Big Brother Zhou Heng massage it."
Zhou Heng's legs were red and in pain.
Su Xiaoling's heart ached when she saw this. She gently pressed it, just like how she used to massage Zhou Heng every day.
"Does it still hurt, Little Brother Heng?"
Su Xiaoling asked with concern.
Zhou Heng smiled and said, "It doesn't hurt anymore."
When he first walked on the ground, the heart-wrenching pain was unbearable. It was their encouragement that made him persevere. Now that he was lying on the bed, his entire legs hurt very much, but he did not want to say that it hurt because he did not want to see Su Xiaoling frown.
......
Su Xiaoling gently massaged Zhou Heng's legs. Not long after, Su Xiaolu came again and applied more medicine.
After applying the medicine, Zhou Heng could feel that the pain was disappearing. He looked at Su Xiaolu.
Su Xiaolu smiled and said, "From today onwards, you'll have to apply the medicine twice. This way, you can recover faster. If nothing goes wrong, you'll be able to jump around like us this winter."
By then, Zhou Heng would have a pair of healthy legs again. He could walk, jump, and run.
Zhou Heng said to Su Xiaolu gently, "Thank you, Xiaolu. When can I walk normally?"
Su Xiaolu brushed the ointment on Zhou Heng's legs with the medicine brush and said, "Around April."
Zhou Heng knew in his heart that his recovery was really slow.
But when he thought about how difficult it was for him to regain a pair of legs, he endured the anxiety in his heart.
Su Xiaolu applied the medicine for Zhou Heng and went out. She still had to read medical books.
Old Wu's had a basket full of medical books. He said that she had to read and learn all of them.
She usually had to help with work in addition to reading.
It would take years to read so many books.
Old Wu had not gone out to pick herbs for the past two days. He had taught Su Xiaolu diligently. Although Su Xiaolu was a genius, she also did not know many things. However, Su Xiaolu would understand if Old Wu taught her.
Su Xiaolu came to Old Wu's side and saw him flipping through the book. Su Xiaolu called out respectfully, "Master."
Old Wu nodded and took out a poison book. He said to Su Xiaolu, "Xiaolu, do you know what poison is?"
Su Xiaolu nodded. "Poison is inedible. Poison can kill."
All things were mutually reinforcing and restraining. There were life-saving medicines, and naturally, there were poisons that could kill.
Old Wu nodded and said, "Today, Master will teach you how to recognize poison. These are all treasures of our Minggu. You have to learn them all."
Su Xiaolu sat down beside Old Wu and asked gloomily, "Master, do I really not have any Senior apprentice, or Uncle-Master?"
Su Xiaolu felt that it was really difficult to study so many books. Minggu Medical Valley was so powerful, but they had so few people.
Old Wu shook his head and said, "No, our Minggu has only one descendant."
Su Xiaolu asked again, "Master, you're not young anymore. Not everyone can live to your age."
Old Wu coughed and said, "Well, I won't hide it from you. I've been studying for many years, and I've been looking for disciples since I graduated. There are at least eight or ten candidates. If I really can't find my favorite disciple, I'll just choose one from those candidates. This has always been the case for our lineage. Fortunately, the heavens have blessed us. Even in my generation, we're still following this tradition."
Thinking about it, Old Wu actually felt a little proud. The teachings of Minggu Medical Valley had been passed down until now because they were blessed by the heavens.
"Master, can't you take in a few more disciples?"
Su Xiaolu thought about it and asked.?Isn't it a pity that such good medical books are only passed on to one person??She thought.
Old Wu pondered for a moment before saying, "There's no such rule. If you don't find it troublesome in the future, you can take in more, but I don't want trouble. I'm content with you."
He thought about it. He couldn't take in more disciples? There was no such rule. He couldn't help but wonder why the previous generation, or even the generation before that, didn't take in more disciples.
Unfortunately, they had already passed on and he would never know the answer. He liked peace and quiet, so he only wanted one disciple.
"Xiaolu, stop asking questions. Focus on studying. If you ask again, Master will ignore you."
Old Wu reached out and tugged at Su Xiaolu's ponytail.
He didn't treat Su Xiaolu as a child, so he didn't see the need to satisfy her strange curiosity. One time was enough. He wouldn't bother with her next time she asked.
Su Xiaolu spread her hands helplessly. "Okay, I'll understand."
Su Xiaolu guessed that Master Wu didn't want to take in more disciples because he found it troublesome. Minggu Medical Valley's masters were probably reticent. Even those who weren't reticent would become quiet through their boring medical studies.
As time passed, they would naturally come to dislike crowds. Although it was not explicitly stated that they could only take in one disciple, they would not take in more disciples if they did not like crowds. In any case, it was fine as long as there was no end to the inheritance. After all, Old Wu had been looking for candidates for disciples since he graduated.
Tsk, I didn't expect him to be kind of a scumbag. Xiaolu though.
Whether it was poison books or medical books, Su Xiaolu was very serious about her studies.
And so the day passed.
On the second day of the New Year, Chen Daniu and Chen Erniu carried their younger brother Chen Shi over to learn how to read.
Zhou Heng had taught the entire Thousand Character Classic. Now, Su Chong and Su Hua could already memorize it and fully understand the meaning of the Thousand Character Classic.
Chen Daniu and Chen Erniu went home after studying for two hours.
It was time for Zhou Heng to practice walking.
It was another cruel torture. After walking one round, Zhou Heng thought that that would be it for the day. However, when Su Chong and Su Hua were about to help him sit down, Su Xiaolu spoke.
"Wait. One more round today. One round on the first day, two on the second, and three on the third."
Su Xiaolu had a sweet smile and charming eyes.
Zhou Heng only felt that Su Xiaolu was a little devil.
Zhou Heng took a deep breath and said with a trembling voice, "Ah Chong, Ah Hua, let go. I can do it."
Chapter 90: Keep Walking 2
She hadn't mentioned it before, but she said it right after he'd breathed a sigh of relief and smiled so sweetly, she's really a little devil.
But she was so cute. Of course, he had to forgive her.
After another round, Zhou Heng's legs were trembling like yesterday. His face was pale and covered in sweat. His breathing was heavy, and he could no longer exert any strength.
He was helped back to the wooden wheelchair by Su Chong and Su Hua. He took a long breath and exhaled to adjust his breathing.
Su Chong and Su Hua also waited for Zhou Heng to calm down before carrying him back to his room.
Su Xiaolu followed them and tore off the ointment. Zhou Heng's legs were still red and he was in pain.
Before Su Xiaolu could say anything, Su Xiaoling had already started to massage Zhou Heng's legs.
Su Xiaolu smiled. "I'll go out and prepare the medicine."
When Su Xiaolu came back with the medicine, the redness in Zhou Heng's legs had faded, and he looked much better.
After applying the medicine, Su Xiaolu went to read.
Su Xiaoling went to get hot water to wipe Zhou Heng's sweat. She said gently, "Little Brother Heng, don't be angry with Xiaolu. She doesn't have any bad intentions. She probably forgot to tell you to walk two rounds beforehand. She's still young."
Su Xiaoling was afraid that Zhou Heng would be angry, and she did not want Zhou Heng to be angry at Su Xiaolu.
Zhou Heng smiled and said, "I won't be angry with her. She's my little sister. A big brother won't be angry with his sister. Besides, she did a good job. This can train my will."
......
Su Xiaoling was very sensitive to even the slightest emotion. Zhou Heng naturally did not want her to worry about it.
Every word he said was sincere.
Su Xiaoling smiled. "As long as you're not angry."
Zhou Heng smiled gently. Of course he wouldn't get angry.
Soon, it was time for dinner.
Zhou Heng suddenly said, "Third Uncle, Third Aunt, I have something to tell you."
Su Sanlang and Madam Zhao immediately looked at Zhou Heng. Su Sanlang asked gently, "Heng, what's the matter?"
Zhou Heng looked at Su Chong and Su Hua and said, "I think Ah Chong and Ah Hua can enter the school now."
Su Xiaolu had stopped giving Su Chong and Su Hua acupuncture these days, but they were still taking the medicine. When he taught them, he felt that their thinking had improved a lot, and they were both very smart.
Although they lacked years of mental growth, it didn't necessarily take them years to keep up.
"Is—is that really okay?"
Madam Zhao asked uncertainly. She had never thought that this day would come so quickly. It was so fast that she could not believe it.
"You can ask Uncle-Master and Xiaolu. They should know better than me."
Zhou Heng looked at Su Xiaolu and Old Wu and said.
Su Sanlang looked at Old Wu, who nodded. "Yes, the damaged meridians in Su Chong and Su Hua's brains have been repaired. After taking this month's brain nourishing medicine, I'm thinking of stopping the medicine."
Su Chong and Su Hua recovered very quickly because they used good medicine. Moreover, Su Xiaolu's needles were very precise, so they could recover so quickly.
Su Xiaolu also said, "Master is right. When I checked Big Brother and Second Brother's pulse, I also felt that everything was great."
She had also planned to tell Su Sanlang and Madam Zhao about the situation in the next few days. Her two brothers could go to school. There was no problem with their minds anymore. It was just that Zhou Heng had suggested it first.
Su Sanlang and Madam Zhao were naturally happy.
Madam Zhao said, "Sanlang, take Chong and Hua to the school sometime."
It was every citizen's dream to let their children and grandchildren study and become outstanding.
However, studying was difficult and arduous. Not everyone was suitable for studying.
Some who had studied for more than ten years were still only students who could not even pass the county-level examination. Some had studied for decades, but in the end, they were still stuck at the county-level examination.
But those who took the scholarly examination brought glory to the entire family.
As parents, who didn't want their children to stand out? Su Sanlang and Madam Zhao were no exception.
When Madam Zhao mentioned it, Su Sanlang nodded. "Okay, I'll bring them there the day after tomorrow."
In the past, his sons would never have had the chance to study.
Now, Chong and Hua could go to school to learn.
The family had more than ten acres of land. It was enough for the family to survive. He was not afraid of hardship. In the future, when he's free from farming, he would ask Chen Hu out, and the two of them would go to town to find a job to earn some money to subsidize the family.
The future was bright.
Su Chong and Su Hua listened to them and were also looking forward to it.
They had long known from Zhou Heng that the school was a place to learn knowledge. The best place for them to learn knowledge was the school and the academy. The academy was where they would go in the future. Right now, they had to go to school first.
The meal was delicious.
After eating and washing up, they returned to their rooms to rest.
At night, Zhou Heng told Su Chong and Su Hua a lot about school.
Su Chong listened quietly, full of yearning.
Su Hua also yearned for it, but he thought more. After Zhou Heng finished speaking, he asked, "Little Brother Heng, were you in the academy before? Why do you know so much?"
Su Chong belatedly reacted. He scratched his head. "Oh right, why is Little Brother Heng so smart?"
Zhou Heng smiled lightly and said, "I can't tell you now, but I promise you that if you pass the Elementary Scholar exam in the future, I'll tell you why I know so much."
Su Chong nodded. "Sure, sure."
Su Hua paused and then asked, 'What if you aren't here then?'
Su Hua remembered that Zhou Heng had said that he also had a younger brother named Zhou Zhi. He did not mention his parents, but he surely had them. Moreover, he was here to recuperate. He would not stay here forever. He would not be with them forever.
Zhou Heng did not expect Su Hua to ask this, but since Su Hua asked, he would not brush him off.
Therefore, Zhou Heng said seriously, "Ah Chong, Ah Hua, I promise you that if I leave here at that time, I will also write to you. At that time, you will know after reading my letter."
"Then let's make a promise. If you go home, write to us."
Su Hua agreed.
Although Chen Hu's family had moved away, Su Hua did not return to his room to sleep. In any case, the three of them were not cramped and were warm, so they slept together these days.
Su Sanlang and Madam Zhao were still awake in the main room.
Madam Zhao leaned against Su Sanlang and whispered, "Sanlang, pinch me. I'm really afraid that this is a dream when I wake up."
She really couldn't believe any of this was real. It felt a little surreal.
Su Sanlang held Madam Zhao's hand and placed it on his chest. He smiled and said, "Darling, feel my heartbeat. I'm very happy. All of this is true. Our Chong and Hua can go to school and learn a lot."