Chapter 151: Graduate 2
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
Su Xiaolu ate quietly. There were no obvious emotions on her face, but her face was covered in tears.
She knew she might be close to finishing her apprenticeship, but every day was still fulfilling. There were so many basic skills being tested over and over again. She thought there was still a long way to go.
Old Wu had left her a name tag. This was her identity card. In the future, she would be the successor of the Divine Doctor of Minggu.
There was also a short letter.
It said that at the end of this year or next year or at some point, a swordsman would come to teach her swordsmanship and she should learn it well.
Minggu had the best relationship with Daoism and Confucianism. Wherever she went, she could contact these two places with her name tag.
Finally, he instructed her to let the swordsman make a set of knives for her when he came to teach her swordsmanship.
In the end, he said that she was very smart. She had memorized everything that needed to be taught. In the future, she would study it on her own. He did not know when it would be, it might be this year or the year after next, but when he returned, he would have to test her. As her master, as long as he was alive, he could revoke her status as the sect master at any time!
Su Xiaolu couldn't help but cry and laugh at the thought of this letter. Stupid old man!
She thought that maybe the old man had decided to leave like this because he was afraid of her being like this. After all, the old man was afraid of women, and he didn't talk much. He might even be socially awkward.
As the best disciple in the world, of course, she would forgive the old man for leaving without saying goodbye!
The servants immediately reported the matter regarding Su Xiaolu to Sun Ziqian and the others.
Sun Baoshan and Sun Baoqian no longer had to stay in the courtyard. After hearing this, Sun Baoqian stood up and said, "Then I'll go over and accompany Xiaolu. She must be sad now."
Sun Baoshan pursed his lips. Finally, he said, "I'll go too."
Madam Lian sighed. "The divine doctor left too suddenly. But Xiaolu is really smart. She finished her apprenticeship so quickly."
!!!
Sun Ziqian said, "Maybe the divine doctor is just going to relax and will be back in a few days."
"It's obvious that Xiaolu is smart. She's not shy about what the divine doctor teaches, but who can understand it? Only talented people understand. It's better to let the kitchen make more delicious food and send it over. Eating something you like will make you feel much better."
Sun Ziqian thought for a moment before replying.
Madam Lian nodded. "That works too."
They did not see Old Wu return for the next few days. Only then did Sun Ziqian and Madam Lian believe that Old Wu had really left.
They were originally worried that Su Xiaolu would not be used to it, but they quickly stopped worrying.
After Su Xiaolu cried, life returned to normal.
She felt that perhaps she had learned too quickly and shortened this master-disciple relationship.
But when she thought about it, she would be the same if she did it again, because every time she completed a mission that Old Wu had assigned her, the old man was very proud. He didn't treat her like a normal child, so he didn't consider whether it would be bad to graduate too quickly.
The sooner she did, the more proud he would be.
Now that she had figured it out, she stopped feeling sad.
Life hadn't changed either.
It was time to go home again. Su Xiaolu went to the shop early to help.
Seeing her coming alone, Madam Zhao couldn't help but ask, "Where's your master? Isn't he coming back today?"
Su Xiaolu replied calmly, "Master left. He left two days ago. He said that I can finish my apprenticeship."
Madam Zhao was stunned for a moment before she reacted. "That's good too. Unfortunately, I didn't have the chance to thank him. I think he's not used to it. It's good to be free."
Old Wu was a man of few words and was relatively cold to others.
He only doted on her younger daughter. Only Su Xiaolu could pluck his beard, no one else could.
He had taught Su Xiaolu all his medical skills, but Su Xiaolu did not have a single banquet to thank her master.
Madam Zhao felt that it was a pity. She could only thank him in her heart and wish him safety.
"Master doesn't care about that. When he's free occasionally in the future, he'll still come back to test me."
Su Xiaolu smiled and said.
When Madam Zhao heard this, she also smiled. "Then learn well. You definitely won't embarrass your master. When he comes back, you can thank him properly."
When she heard that Old Wu would return in the future, Madam Zhao was no longer worried.
Just thinking about it made her happy. Her gentle gaze landed on Su Xiaolu, and she felt proud. She had given birth to such a good daughter.
When it was past noon and the pickles were sold out, Su Xiaolu would go back with her family.
Everyone knew that Su Xiaolu had graduated and Old Wu had left.
Regarding this matter, the family tacitly did not discuss much.
From now on, Su Xiaolu would go back and forth between home and the Sun residence alone.
In mid-July, Madam Qian entered town again to teach a new recipe to the chef at Fu Man Lai Restaurant.
On the seventeenth of July, she had just come out of the Fu Man Lai Restaurant when she felt someone following her.
Madam Qian was more sensitive. She observed quietly on the street and finally confirmed that a woman was really following her. She was frightened and quickly quickened her pace.
Madam Chen was originally following hesitantly. Seeing that Madam Qian had quickened her pace, she panicked and hurriedly chased after her. She grabbed Madam Qian's hand and said anxiously, "Wait, wait, wait. I just want to ask you something. I don't have any ill intentions."
Madam Qian was quite frightened. She did not expect Madam Chen to chase after her. Now that she saw Madam Chen clearly and saw that her eyes were filled with anxiety, she heaved a sigh of relief.
She whispered, "Miss, what do you want?"
Although Madam Qian was relieved, she was still wary of Madam Chen.
Madam Chen did not speak immediately. Instead, she sized up Madam Qian's face. Up close, she could still see the traces left on Madam Qian's face. Although the scars on her eyelids had healed and only left a small mark, her eyelids could not be like normal eyes.
Madam Chen's heart trembled. "It's true, it's true."
She was certain that this was no other's rumor. Madam Qian had once had many scars on her face. She knew them all too well, so she could confirm them when she saw them clearly.
Madam Chen was terrified. She frowned and said angrily, "Madam, please let go. I don't know you. Please let go."
Madam Chen subconsciously let go. She knew that Madam Qian was angry, but she had something to ask of her, so she immediately said, "I'm sorry, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to. I was just too agitated."
"I'm really sorry I scared you. Believe me, I didn't mean any harm. I just wanted to ask you about something. I'll say my piece and leave."
Madam Chen had a sincere expression and even pressed her palms together to beg Madam Qian to forgive her for her presumptuousness.
Seeing her like this, Madam Qian thought there really must be something. She softened her tone. "Then tell me what you want."
Madam Chen smiled gratefully and immediately said, "Please forgive me for being presumptuous. I want to ask you how you treated these scars. I have a daughter at home who also has many scars. I want to ask you to introduce me to the famous doctor. I can give you any amount of money."
Chapter 152: Madam Qian Was Stopped
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
Madam Chen was afraid that she would not be sincere enough and Madam Qian would not agree or believe her.
She was anxious. Perhaps because she was thinking of her daughter, there were already tears in her eyes. She said in a choked voice, "What I said is true. If you don't believe me, I can take you to my house to see my daughter..."
"She's only twenty-four. She's not married. I don't want her life to be ruined like this. Please..."
Madam Chen shed tears and told Madam Qian why she knew about Madam Qian.
Her daughter would always be a wound in her heart. That was why when she heard a rumor, she asked around. In the end, she found out about Madam Qian.
They said that Madam Qian already had a huge scar on her face, but it was all healed now. They didn't know what kind of divine medicine she had used.
Those who were unfamiliar with Madam Qian said that it was fake. Madam Qian's face was not covered in scars at all. The marks on her face were probably just a birthmark or something. As for her eyes? She must have been injured when she was young.
People only treated it as a joke, but Madam Chen took it seriously. She waited for Madam Qian for several days before seeing her. She was afraid that her sudden appearance would disturb her, but Madam Qian was still shocked when she discovered her.
Madam Chen was afraid that if she missed this opportunity, she would never be able to find Madam Qian again, so she chased after her and stopped her.
Madam Qian knew the reason. Seeing Madam Chen's sincere expression, she believed her. She said, "Where do you live? Tell me, don't follow me anymore. I'll help you ask later. If the doctor is willing, I'll introduce you to them. If not, I'll let you know. Don't make things difficult for me."
Madam Qian believed in Madam Chen, but she could not bring her to Su Xiaolu with just a few words from Madam Chen.
She had to go back and ask Su Xiaolu's opinion.
Madam Chen listened to Madam Qian's words. She wanted to see the doctor immediately, but she also knew that this was inappropriate. If she insisted, Madam Qian would not agree, so she could only suppress her anxiety.
She nodded and gave her home address. She repeatedly begged Madam Qian to help ask before reluctantly watching Madam Qian leave.
Madam Qian was also worried that Madam Chen had bad intentions, so she was careful and deliberately circled around a few more times. After confirming that no one was following her, she felt relieved and went back.
!!!
Madam Qian returned to the shop and helped Madam Zhao clean up. After Su Chong and the others left school, the group went home.
On the way, Madam Qian said to Madam Zhao, "Eldest Brother, Sister-in-law, I met a strange woman today."
Madam Zhao looked at Madam Qian in confusion.
Su Sanlang also looked at Madam Qian. "Sister-in-law, who did you meet?"
Madam Qian frowned and said, "Eldest Brother, Sister-in-law, a woman surnamed Chen. She asked me how the scars on my face were healed. She said that she has a daughter who also has many scars. She's only 24 years old and hasn't married yet. She wants to ask me to recommend her to a doctor."
Su Sanlang and Madam Zhao understood that she wanted Su Xiaolu to help treat her daughter.
Madam Qian was afraid that Su Sanlang and Madam Zhao would be worried, so she said, "I didn't agree. I was afraid that she had bad intentions. When I came back, I circled around a few more times. She really didn't follow me anymore. I don't think she lied to me. I can't agree on behalf of Xiaolu, so I'm telling you."
Madam Chen had asked her to pass on a message. Thinking about Madam Chen's condition, she couldn't bear it. After thinking about it, she still told Madam Zhao.
Su Sanlang and Madam Zhao also understood what Madam Qian meant.
Madam Zhao said, "Then tomorrow, I'll get Third Sister to go to the Sun residence to ask Xiaolu."
Su Sanlang nodded. "We can't decide for Xiaolu. Let Third Sister go and see what Xiaolu thinks."
Madam Qian was relieved to hear that.
If Su Xiaolu was unwilling, then she would reject her the next time she met Madam Chen.
So the next day, Su Sanmei went to Sun residence.
This was her first time coming to the Sun residence. After telling the servant at the door, the servant led her in.
The Sun residence was very beautiful. It was very different from ordinary people's homes.
Su Xiaoling did not look around. She only calmly took in the scenery in front of her. After following the servant to a small courtyard, Su Xiaoling thanked him gently, "Thank you."
The servant quickly waved his hand. "No, no."
Su Xiaoling walked into the circular archway and saw Su Xiaolu stoking the fire in the small stove in the courtyard.
Su Xiaoling's expression was gentle as she said softly, "Xiaolu."
Su Xiaolu heard the shout and looked over. She immediately smiled. "Sister, why are you here? Come here."
Su Xiaoling walked over and saw that Su Xiaolu looked like she was about to cook. She asked curiously, "Xiaolu, what are you doing?"
It looked like cooking, but there were also some ground herbs.
Su Xiaolu smiled and said, "I'm making medicinal cuisine."
Su Xiaoling watched Su Xiaolu wash the rice. She couldn't help but ask, "Is it porridge?"
Su Xiaolu nodded. "This will be better. Cook it dry and they'll treat it as food."
Although it tasted bitter, it could be eaten with some side dishes.
In the past six months, she had often made medicinal cuisine, but her culinary skills had not improved.
Therefore, in the end, she simply cooked some porridge and let Sun Baoshan and Sun Baoqian eat it. There were also a few stacks of side dishes in the kitchen. Although it was still not delicious, the siblings gritted their teeth and ate it.
Su Xiaoling looked at Su Xiaolu's lack of order and asked, "Are there requirements for these?"
Su Xiaolu waved her hand. "No, just soak the herbs and boil them together."
Su Xiaoling smiled. "Then let me help you."
Su Xiaolu nodded. "Sure."
With Su Xiaoling's help, Su Xiaolu went to get herbs.
She carried a small stone and placed the medicinal herbs inside to slowly crush them.
"Why are you here, Sister?"
Su Xiaolu asked.
Su Xiaoling helped to cook porridge. As she stirred, she said, "Mother asked me to come. Yesterday, a woman stopped Auntie and asked her how the scar on her face was healed. She wanted her to help introduce a doctor. Auntie told Father and Mother. Father and Mother thought about it and felt that they should ask for your opinion, so I came."
Su Xiaolu had prepared several herbs. Su Xiaoling asked, "Xiaolu, which of these herbs is harder to cook? Which ones are easier to ripen?"
"That black-hoofed root is a little harder to cook. The groundpod and the other two are in the middle. The snowcapped grass is easy to cook."
Su Xiaolu replied.
Su Xiaoling put the hard-to-cook ones in first and closed the lid.
She came to Su Xiaolu's side. "Do you need my help?"
Su Xiaolu shook her head and said, "Sister, then send a message back to Mother later. Tell her that I agree to meet the person. I'll go with Auntie tomorrow. We'll talk about it when the time comes."
Su Xiaoling nodded. "Alright, I'll go back after I cook the porridge for you."
Su Xiaoling turned to the small stove, estimated the time to open the lid, and returned two pieces of firewood.
Then, she placed the other herbs down one after another.
The fire was low, and the air holes of the casserole kept steaming. There was a faint scent of herbs and rice.
Chapter 153: Third Sister's Talent
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
Finally, she added the easily cooked snowcapped grass. Su Xiaoling took the seasoning.
The porridge was light green, as if because of snowcapped grass.
Su Xiaoling brought the casserole down and said, "Xiaolu, the medicinal cuisine is ready."
Su Xiaolu was a little depressed. "I don't smell anything burnt."
She often burnt the dish.
She went over and looked. Huh.
Why was this color different from what she made?
Su Xiaoling thought something was wrong and was nervous. "What's wrong?"
Su Xiaolu said curiously, "What you made is a little different from what I made. Let me try it."
The colors were different, and the aroma of porridge lingered.
She wanted to taste it to see if the drug was still there.
Su Xiaoling took a small spoon and tasted it.
She was even more surprised. "Oh... it's delicious. How strange. The medicinal properties are better than mine. Sister, how did you make it?"
Wasn't this medicinal cuisine described in the book?
The porridge was soft and had a faint fragrance. The medicinal fragrance was rich and slightly bitter.
Su Xiaoling said helplessly, "I usually do this."
Su Xiaolu looked at Su Xiaoling seriously and said, "Sister, wait a moment. I'll get something for you."
Su Xiaolu went to get the medicinal cuisine book. She handed it to Su Xiaoling and said, "Sister, don't you want to study the recipe? Why don't you study this? There are a total of 400 medicinal cuisine recipes here. I can't learn them, but I think you can."
Su Xiaoling hurriedly waved her hand. "No, no. This belongs to your sect. How can it be leaked?"
What if Uncle-Master came back and found out and got angry with her?
Su Xiaolu said seriously, "Sister, I'm the head of Minggu now. Master said that I'll be in charge of the inheritance. I can even take in disciples from now on. When Master taught me this medicinal cuisine, the color he made was black, and most of mine was yellow. Only you made the taste described in the recipe."
"So now, as the Sect Master of Minggu, I'll accept you as my Senior Sister. Forget about the customs. I'll pass this recipe to you. Alright, you're my Senior Sister now. You can learn it openly."
Su Xiaolu gave the recipe to Su Xiaoling.
Su Xiaoling was stunned. After a while, she said helplessly, "Xiaolu, it's not like this... Uncle-Master will be angry."
She looked at Su Xiaolu helplessly. Seeing that Su Xiaolu's smile had disappeared, Su Xiaoling paused. What Xiaolu said just now was said with a serious expression...
"Xiaolu..."
Su Xiaoling didn't know what to do.
Su Xiaolu looked at Su Xiaoling seriously and said, "Senior Sister, our Minggu doesn't have any big rules. We all flatter and do whatever we want. In the future, when my master is old, you can't refuse to make medicinal cuisine. Otherwise, the old man will really deprive you of your right to inherit. Of course, at that time, I won't help you plead for leniency, but if you're kicked out, you'll still be my third sister."
Old Man Wu passed all of it on to her. She could do anything.
Of course, if she displeased the old man, as long as he was alive, he retained the right to seize her identity. That right was valid for all heirs.
In other words, if she lived long enough, she could even decide if she wanted to take in disciples. If she didn't want to, then she wouldn't take them in.
Seeing that Su Xiaolu was serious, Su Xiaoling's expression became serious. She held the medicinal cuisine book in her hands and said seriously, "Okay, I'm willing to become a part of Minggu and follow its teachings. I won't violate it."
After saying that, Su Xiaoling took a deep breath and looked at Su Xiaolu. "Xiaolu, if Uncle-Master comes back and doesn't want me to learn, then I won't learn anymore. I won't use what I learn for the rest of my life."
After learning how to cook from Madam Qian for a period of time, she realized that she liked to cook. She enjoyed watching the food slowly turn into delicacies in her hands. She also enjoyed watching the dishes being finished.
Therefore, this recipe was a priceless treasure to her. She really wanted to learn it.
Perhaps now that Su Xiaolu had taken her in, Old Wu would return soon. If he was dissatisfied, he would kick her out again.
But now that this opportunity was in front of her, she could not refuse.
It was the same as when Big Brother and Second Brother wanted to enter the school.
Su Xiaolu nodded with a smile. "Okay, I promise you."
Su Xiaoling treasured the recipe very much. She smiled at Su Xiaolu and said, "Xiaolu, I'll go back first."
Su Xiaolu nodded.
After sending Su Xiaoling off, Su Xiaolu brought the medicinal cuisine to Sun Baoshan and Sun Baoqian.
As soon as they entered the courtyard, Su Xiaolu shouted happily, "Sister Baoqian, Brother Baoshan, I'm here to bring you medicinal cuisine. Today's medicinal cuisine is very delicious. You'll definitely like it."
Sun Baoshan and Sun Baoqian, who were in the room, immediately felt hopeless.
Madam Lian couldn't help but laugh. "Just grit your teeth and get through it."
They had to eat this medicinal cuisine twice a month.
Although her heart ached for the two children, it was really good to eat them. No matter how much her heart ached, she could endure it and not hurt. She had to let Sun Baoshan and Sun Baoqian eat everything.
When Su Xiaolu came in and put the casserole away, the maidservant went down to get a bowl.
He quickly brought two bowls over and opened them for Sun Baoshan and Sun Baoqian.
Sun Baoshan and Sun Baoqian smelled the faint fragrance of medicine and rice. When they saw that the color was different, they were shocked. "Xiaolu, did you cook this?"
After eating dry porridge for half a year, he couldn't believe what he was seeing.
Su Xiaolu was a little embarrassed. "I didn't cook it, but it's better than mine."
Sun Baoshan and Sun Baoqian ate. The two of them were originally prepared to be depressed, but they did not expect to be surprised.
"It's delicious."
Sun Baoqian praised as she ate heartily.
Sun Baoshan also nodded in agreement.
Madam Lian was also curious. She asked the servant girl to pass her a spoon to taste it and was immediately surprised. It was really delicious.
Su Xiaolu blushed and said proudly, "My third sister made this. Her culinary skills are very good. I'll ask her for help with medicinal cuisine in the future."
"Then... would it be all right if you thanked her for us?"
Sun Baoqian was very happy, but she was afraid that Su Xiaolu would be sad, so she restrained her joy.
Sun Baoshan's eyes were also filled with anticipation, but he looked at Su Xiaolu and pursed his lips before saying, "Xiaolu, you did a good job too. Thank you."
Su Xiaolu felt the comfort of Sun Baoqian and her sister. She smiled generously and said, "Thank you, but I'm as untalented as Master in making medicinal cuisine. However, my third sister is talented. You don't have to suffer in the future, hehe."
She didn't care at all. Only then did Sun Baoshan and Sun Baoqian show their joy. Madam Lian also smiled in relief. When she told Sun Ziqian about it, they couldn't stop laughing.
Chapter 154: Agree to MeetTranslator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
At night, Su Xiaolu administered acupuncture to Sun Baoshan and Sun Baoqian as usual. It had been more than half a year, and half of the toxins in the siblings' bodies had been cleared. It was faster than expected. By this time next year, the remaining toxins in their bodies would be completely cleared.
At that time, they just needed to continue eating the occasional medicinal cuisine and the health pills she made every day.
After putting away the needles, Su Xiaolu returned to the courtyard to sleep.
After the old man left, she stopped eating supper. After packing up the herbs, she entered the Space to pack up the herbs she had planted. Some of them needed to be planted separately, and she only came out to sleep after she was done.
The next day, she didn't have to perform acupuncture for Sun Baoshan and Sun Baoqian. She went to the shop early to help out. She kept greeting people at the entrance of the shop. There were many regulars. When she saw them, she shouted kindly,
Because of Su Xiaolu, they were sold out before noon today.
Madam Zhao said gently to Su Xiaolu, "Xiaolu, your auntie will be back soon. I'll go with you."
Anyway, it wasn't very far. It would be good for her to go along so that she could take care of her.
"Okay."
Su Xiaolu nodded.
Madam Zhao began to wash the wooden buckets. She let Chen Daniu and Chen Erniu rest while she slowly did it.
Madam Zhao wanted the children to rest, but none of them did.
Everyone washed the vegetable board and the kitchen knives.
When they were all packed, they rested together.
Not long after, Madam Qian arrived.
When she saw Su Xiaolu, she said, "Are we going over now?"
Su Xiaolu nodded.
Madam Zhao said to Su Xiaoling, "Third Sister, I'll go with them. Wait here with Daniu and Erniu. Wait for us when your brothers and Heng are out of school."
Su Xiaoling nodded and said gently, "Okay, rest assured."
Madam Qian smiled and instructed Chen Daniu and Chen Erniu, "Daniu and Erniu, listen to Xiaoling, understand? Don't run around."
Chen Daniu and Chen Erniu nodded. "We won't run around. Mother, don't worry."
Madam Qian and Madam Zhao smiled at each other. Madam Zhao held Su Xiaolu's hand and the three of them went together.
They followed the address all the way.
Seeing that the street was getting more and more familiar, Su Xiaolu couldn't help but say, "Big Brother and Second Brother's school is on this street."
Madam Zhao had never been here before. When she heard this, her expression softened. "Is that so?"
When they reached the school gate, Su Xiaolu pointed to Madam Zhao. "This is the place."
Before school ended, there were still faint sounds of reading.
Madam Zhao's expression was gentle, and Madam Qian's expression was also very gentle. In their opinion, learning knowledge was a very sacred thing.
However, the address given by Madam Chen was not this one.
After entering the alley and finding a back door, Madam Qian looked around and said, "This should be the place. I'll knock and try."
As she spoke, Madam Qian raised her hand and knocked on the door.
It wasn't long before they heard urgent footsteps approaching. Then the door opened.
Madam Chen looked at Madam Qian in disbelief. "Sister, you're really here. Thank you so much. I've been looking forward to your arrival for the past two days. It's really great."
She had been waiting for news for the past two days and was very anxious. She was thinking that if there was no news in two days, she would have to ask Madam Qian again even if she had to be thick-skinned.
She didn't expect her to really come.
Madam Chen's gaze landed on Madam Zhao, who was beside Madam Qian. Her eyes were filled with anxiety.
Was she the famous doctor?
Madam Chen did not dare to be presumptuous. She only suppressed the joy in her heart and looked at Madam Qian expectantly, waiting for Madam Qian to introduce her.
Madam Qian said, "Sister Chen, last time, you said that your daughter needed scar removal. I asked around for you and the doctor agreed to help you take a look. So, we came today."
Madam Chen was very excited and nodded repeatedly. "Okay, okay, thank you. Please come in."
Madam Chen excitedly invited the three of them in.
She did not pay attention to Su Xiaolu. She only quietly sized up Madam Zhao and thought about how to talk to her.
Madam Zhao felt Madam Chen's excitement. Madam Chen looked at her frequently, and Madam Zhao returned a polite smile.
Inside the backyard to the inner courtyard.
Madam Chen said, "My daughter is in the house. She has suffered a lot over the years. If she offends you in any way, please don't hold it against her. As her mother, I apologize to you first."
Chen's eyes were filled with worry, and she suppressed a lot of her helplessness.
Before she went in, she apologized.
Madam Chen was gentle and polite. As mothers, Madam Qian and Madam Zhao understood her immediately.
Madam Zhao and Madam Qian smiled at each other. Madam Zhao said, "It's alright."
Madam Chen was very grateful. She looked at Madam Qian and Madam Zhao and sincerely thanked them.
When they reached the door, Madam Chen raised her hand and knocked lightly three times. Then, she said gently, "Yaoyao, Mother is here."
There was no response from inside the house.
Madam Chen sighed and pushed through the door.
She understood the knot in her daughter's heart too well.
After they entered, they saw a beautiful woman's back view sitting quietly in front of the embroidered screen.
Madam Chen stepped forward and said gently, "Yaoyao, mother brought the doctor over. Can you take a look at the doctor? Believe me, this doctor will definitely be able to treat you this time."
Once her face was healed, her daughter wouldn't have to feel so inferior and shut herself away from the world. She wouldn't have to be laughed at.
As long as she was well, she could still marry the man of her dreams. Anything was possible.
Lin Yaoyao's hand paused, and her shoulders trembled. After a while, she said in a hoarse voice, "Mother, I don't want to be treated anymore."
She always took her hope with her and finally her dreams were shattered. After all these years, her heart had died. All she wanted now was a quiet life. She didn't want to face those strange eyes again. Even if it felt like the life of a gutter rat, she didn't want to be disturbed.
Madam Chen was a little anxious. She looked at Madam Zhao and Madam Qian apologetically before walking to Lin Yaoyao's side. She grabbed Lin Yaoyao's hand and begged, "Yaoyao, just believe in Mother one more time. It'll really be fine this time."
Lin Yaoyao's face was covered in tears. Seeing the pleading in Madam Chen's eyes, her heart ached.
She bit her lip hard and clenched her fists. Her nails dug into her palms until they hurt before she nodded this way.
Madam Chen also shed tears. She gently held Lin Yaoyao's hand and gently pried open her fingers to prevent her from hurting herself.
Lin Yaoyao stood up and slowly turned around to face Madam Qian and the others.
She lowered her eyes and did not make eye contact with Su Xiaolu and the others.
But the scar on her face was visible.
Madam Zhao and Madam Qian couldn't help but gasp. Lin Yaoyao's entire face was covered in scars. Her scars weren't as deep as Madam Qian's, but they covered her entire face.
Lin Yaoyao let them take a look before turning her back to them. Madam Chen looked at Madam Zhao anxiously and asked, "Doctor, can it be cured?"
Madam Zhao was stunned for a moment before realizing that Madam Chen had made a mistake. She pointed at Su Xiaolu beside her in embarrassment and said, "I'm sorry. I'm not the doctor. My daughter is."
Chapter 155: Don't Believe
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
Madam Qian also reacted. She quickly said, "I didn't have the chance to tell you before. The young doctor who cured my face is still very young. It's her."
Su Xiaolu smiled at Madam Chen and said, "I can treat your daughter's face."
Although Lin Yaoyao's face was covered in scars, she had seen it just now. The scars weren't hideous, and Lin Yaoyao's facial features weren't affected. As long as she didn't stop applying the ointment, she would recover in half a year.
Madam Chen was still in a daze. After a while, she came back to her senses and looked at Su Xiaolu in disbelief. "She looks like she's only four or five years old. How can she be a doctor?"
Moreover, scars were not easy to treat. Madam Chen was a little sad. She looked at Madam Qian and said sadly, "Sister, if you're unwilling to introduce me, just say it. Why do you have to hurt me like this..."
!!
Madam Chen did not believe that a young lady could treat scars. She was so young that she probably could not even learn medicine. How many medicinal herbs did she know?
It was obvious that Madam Qian was unwilling to recommend a famous doctor to her, so she used such a method to fool her.
Madam Chen was very distressed.
Madam Qian panicked. "Sister Chen, you've misunderstood me. I didn't lie to you. Xiaolu cured my face. Really."
Madam Chen had obviously misunderstood her, but she clearly hadn't lied to her.
Madam Zhao also said, "My daughter is very talented in medicine."
They were not liars.
Madam Chen's expression was sad, and the hope in her eyes dimmed.
Lin Yaoyao felt extremely embarrassed. She suppressed the tears that welled up in her heart and said with difficulty, "Mother, let them go."
She never wanted to be seen in such an embarrassing moment again.
Madam Chen's heart ached and she was filled with self-reproach. She nodded. "Okay, mother will let them out."
As she spoke, Madam Chen said indifferently to Madam Qian, "You can leave."
Madam Qian frowned. "Sigh... forget it. We can't force it if you don't believe me."
"Sister-in-law, let's go back quickly."
Madam Qian also felt very uncomfortable not being believed. She felt a little guilty when she looked at Madam Zhao and Su Xiaolu. Not only did she make a wasted trip, but she also made her heart feel uncomfortable.
Madam Zhao thought so too, so she didn't want to say anything and prepared to bring Su Xiaolu back.
They had just walked out of Lin Yaoyao's room when they ran into a man.
Lin Pingsheng looked at Madam Zhao and the others with a cold expression. He did not speak and just walked indifferently towards Madam Chen behind them.
Su Xiaolu saw the book in his hand and thought that it was actually very close to the academy. Her eldest brother and second brother had said that Teacher Lin was very strict. His thick eyebrows were like swords and he looked very fierce. His facial features were cold. He was only in his forties, but half of his hair was white.
This man's appearance was very similar to the teacher mentioned by Big Brother and Second Brother.
Su Xiaolu thought for a moment and said, "If you want to believe me for once, you can go to the restaurant and find my mother to pass me a message."
Madam Chen was disappointed. She said nothing.
Su Xiaolu only said this before leaving with Madam Zhao.
Madam Zhao didn't care about this family.
After Madam Qian went out, she said guiltily, "Sister-in-law, I'm really sorry. I don't know why she doesn't believe me. It's clearly Xiaolu. I made you guys come here for nothing."
Madam Qian felt guilty. She didn't understand why she didn't believe it. Xiaolu was clearly very good.
Madam Zhao smiled lightly and said, "I'm fine."
She didn't care. She looked at Su Xiaolu. She was worried that Su Xiaolu would be unhappy.
The little girl seemed to know everything. She looked up and revealed a big smile. "Mother, I don't care either. Master said that some people believe it, but others don't. Don't add to your troubles for others."
If Madam Chen believed her, she would treat it with her whole heart. If Madam Chen did not, then forget it.
There was no way she was going to prove herself to anyone else.
"Xiaolu is right."
Madam Qian smiled. This was the right mindset.
Madam Zhao smiled and touched Su Xiaolu's hair before leading her back.
—-
Madam Chen closed the door and returned to the main room with a sad expression.
Thinking of Lin Yaoyao's suppressed sobs, Lin Pingsheng sighed and said, "Madam, don't bring those people to see Yaoyao anymore. She can't take it."
He knew that Madam Chen wanted to cure his daughter, but there were some things that could not be cured just by thinking about them.
Every time someone came to look at Lin Yaoyao's face, it would hurt her.
Lin Yaoyao couldn't bear it. One false hope after another would harm her daughter.
Madam Chen shed tears. She looked at Lin Pingsheng with deep pain in her eyes. "I don't want this to happen either, but what if I really meet a divine doctor? My daughter is only 24 years old. She has already suffered for more than ten years. Is her life going to be ruined here? I can't accept this. I can't accept this."
Ever since her daughter's face was destroyed, every day of her life had been endless torture.
Her husband was knowledgeable and could let her live comfortably and be respected.
But so what? He still hadn't been able to protect her only daughter, and he couldn't suffer on her behalf.
Her daughter had never bloomed at her age. She could only watch as she slowly withered. How painful it was for her.
Lin Pingsheng could not meet her eyes. He clenched his fists under his sleeves and gritted his teeth, unable to say a word.
Madam Chen was in pain, but so was he.
In the end, Madam Chen lowered her eyes and looked up to wipe her tears. She said calmly, "I'll go make dinner."
Lin Pingsheng taught and did not collect much tuition fees. He did not have many students either. The family's money came from the family's assets that had once been sold, and in recent years, he had taught the Sun residence's twins.
Madam Chen had good embroidery skills and often took on embroidery jobs to earn money.
The couple only had one daughter, Lin Yaoyao. Their days were dull.
After Madam Chen left, Lin Pingsheng slowly leaned against the table and sat down. He sighed.
—-
When Madam Zhao and Madam Qian returned to the shop, Su Chong and Su Hua had also arrived.
Chen Daniu and Chen Erniu ran to Madam Qian's side. Chen Daniu said happily, "Mother, you guys came at the right time. Eldest Brother and Second Brother have just arrived, and you guys are already back."
They arrived one after another. It was just in time for everyone to go back together.
Su Chong and Su Hua were with Zhou Heng.
Everyone closed the shop and went back together.
On the way, Su Chong and Su Hua taught Su Xiaoling and the others knowledge.
The few of them recited the words as they walked home.
After arriving home, Su Xiaolu realized that her third sister had already started cooking with Madam Zhao.
She helped with the fire. Madam Zhao's culinary skills were good, and she taught some skills to Su Xiaoling. Su Xiaoling learned seriously.
She learned with ease. Su Xiaolu didn't pay attention to them after watching for a while. She buried the wild chestnuts into the ashes and calculated when it was about time to take them out with the tongs.
Then, she packed it in a small basket and ran out to find Su Chong and Su Hua.
Chapter 156: She Slit Her Wrist 1
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
This was from the mountains last year.
Su Xiaolu liked to eat them very much. Although some of them were rotten, the good ones were still delicious.
Su Chong and Su Hua would also give the good ones to Su Xiaolu.
Su Chong said, "Xiaolu, those two trees have also borne many fruits this year. When they're ripe, we'll go and get them for you."
Su Hua smiled and nodded. "It can pick 20 catties."
!!
Su Xiaolu smiled. "Sure."
Her family rarely ate this thing. Su Xiaolu knew that they always let her have it.
So every time she came back, she would bury a few handfuls in the ashes of the fire and share them with everyone.
She peeled some good ones and gave them to Su Xiaoling.
Su Xiaolu fed them one by one. Su Xiaoling smiled and opened her mouth to eat.
Su Sanlang and Madam Zhao did not eat.
When dinner was ready, the family sat down together.
Life was so uneventful.
Su Xiaolu went back and forth between home and Sun residence, so early the next morning, she went into town with her family again.
When she returned to Sun residence, Su Xiaolu saw a crowd on the street. She walked over and heard people discussing.
"Gosh, her face is scary. She's got scars all over her face. It's scary as hell."
"Exactly. Whenever she looks at me, I'm afraid I'll have nightmares at night."
People said with disdain and malice.
Su Xiaolu could not help but frown. She squeezed in and saw a helpless woman sitting on the ground. She covered her face with her hands as if she did not know how to face the malice of the people.
There was a green gauze hat on the ground. There were so many people watching, but no one picked it up for her.
Some people were filled with malice, while others carried sympathy. However, no one did anything to help. It was as if they would become the next target of everyone's guidance if they did.
"You judge. My son just accidentally bumped into her. She insisted that we stole her silver. We're honest people. Who would do that? Look at her face. I don't think she's a clean person."
A woman stood with her hands on her hips, with a look of intense distaste.
Beside her, a boy of about eight or nine years old looked at the onlookers obediently and innocently. He said, "Uncle, Auntie, Big Brother, Big Sister, believe me, I didn't steal anything. My mother taught me not to steal since I was young, so I won't steal anything from others."
"You judge if that's the case."
The woman clapped her hands loudly, easily resonating.
A number of people nodded in agreement.
"This girl doesn't look where she's going and even maligns my son. Tell me, can I stand this? We're not unreasonable people. As long as this girl is willing to admit her mistake and give me a few coins to buy a bowl of noodles for my son, this matter will be over."
The woman said angrily. She looked coldly at the woman who was sitting on the ground and did not dare to face anyone. Her eyes were filled with smugness.
People looked at the angry woman and the innocent child and naturally felt that they couldn't just let it go. The girl had to pay three to five copper coins to treat the mother and son to a bowl of noodles.
Someone said, "Girl, that's where you're wrong. You hit someone and still accuse them of stealing money. Do you have a conscience?"
Someone else said, "That's right. Hurry up and pay them some copper coins. Thank them for being magnanimous and not pursuing the matter."
As for the girl, she just lowered her head and kept silent.
People were unhappy.
No one saw the tears running down her fingers.
Su Xiaolu frowned and picked up the hat to put it on her.
The woman looked up at Su Xiaolu in shock.
Su Xiaolu said softly, "Sister, how much money did you lose? Do you want me to report it to the authorities for you? I'm sure the authorities can investigate this matter."
Even if she wanted to apologize, it wasn't up to this mother and daughter to decide for her.
Lin Yaoyao held back her tears. Before she could speak, she was interrupted.
"Oh my, it's such a small matter. We don't have to report it to the authorities. The officials are busy. It's fine if you don't apologize. We won't argue with you."
"Son, time to go."
With that, the woman grabbed the boy beside her and left.
Mother and son left very quickly and soon disappeared.
When people saw that there was nothing more to see, they gradually dispersed.
Only a few were still secretly looking at Lin Yaoyao.
The way people sized her up and covered their mouths to laugh and chat was a huge blow to Lin Yaoyao.
Su Xiaolu ignored everything else and asked gently, "Big sister, let me help you up."
Lin Yaoyao slowly stood up.
Su Xiaolu said, "Sister, how much money did you lose? I think you should report it to the officials."
Lin Yaoyao's heart was a mess. Hearing Su Xiaolu's caring words, she finally felt strong. Her voice was hoarse. "Thank you."
After saying thank you, she pushed Su Xiaolu away and staggered away.
Lin Yaoyao just wanted to go home as soon as possible.
Su Xiaolu looked at Lin Yaoyao's back and sighed. She recognized Lin Yaoyao.
She had clearly suffered and lost her money, but in the end, she had broken down and left.
Sometimes, people's words and actions were really strange. They did not fight or use knives, but they still injured people all over.
Su Xiaolu returned to Sun residence and continued to study medicine. She still wanted to study whitening techniques.
—-
Lin Yaoyao staggered home and closed the door in a panic. Only then did she lean against the door and slide to the ground. She took off her gauze hat and threw it aside, suppressing her tears.
She didn't even dare to cry loudly. She could only suppress herself like this.
Despair had already enveloped her heart.
Her face would never heal. She would always be ashamed.
There was no room for her in this world. Because she was disfigured, people would not believe that she had really been robbed.
Her parents loved her, but they would eventually leave her. She would be alone for the rest of her life. What was the point of such a life?
She would never be able to go out openly.
As long as her face was like this, wherever she went, people would talk and laugh at her.
She'd had enough of this life.
Lin Yaoyao stood up slowly and took the scissors from the embroidery frame. She raised her slender wrist and cut it without hesitation.
Blood gushed, and stung her eyes.
Tears blurred her vision. Looking at the blood dripping onto the ground, Lin Yaoyao felt that it was like a scorching red plum blossom, but there were too few red plum blossoms, far from enough.
So she raised her hand and cut again, once, twice...
until she lost her strength and fell limp...
Lin Yaoyao was smiling. She felt very happy to be able to leave with the red plum blossom. Unfortunately, she hadn't seen a real red plum blossom in the snow for a long time. She remembered that there were a few red plum trees on a hill in the eastern suburbs. They were beautiful when the winter snow bloomed. She had the honor of seeing them.
Later, when more people went, she stopped going.
When her consciousness gradually faded, Lin Yaoyao saw a figure pouncing toward her shouting in panic, "My daughter..."
Chapter 157: She Slit Her Wrist 2
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
Madam Chen cried loudly and carried Lin Yaoyao to the bed from the pool of blood. Her tears were like broken beads. She kept saying, "Why are you so stupid? Why are you so stupid..."
"If you do something stupid, what will mother do, wuwuwu..."
Madam Chen hurried to get a cloth to wrap Lin Yaoyao's hand. Looking at the bloody wound, Chen pressed it down with trembling hands.
"Yaoyao, you can't do this. You can't leave me. If I lose you, I don't want to live anymore."
Tears welled up in Madam Chen's eyes.
!!
Lin Yaoyao looked at Madam Chen in a daze. She was also crying. She really wanted to tell her not to save her, but when she saw how sad Madam Chen was, she couldn't bring herself to say that.
Madam Chen cried in pain.
When Lin Pingsheng, who was teaching in the front yard, heard that shrill shout, his heart trembled. He quickly said to the students, "Revise what I taught yesterday."
Then he hurried to the backyard.
When he reached the house, he staggered as well.
"How could Yaoyao, how could..."
How could she take things so hard? Lin Pingsheng's heart ached and he was trembling.
Madam Chen looked at Lin Pingsheng with tears and resentment in her eyes. She stood up and said, "Come and press on the wound. I'll go get a doctor."
With that, Madam Chen rushed out.
Lin Pingsheng pressed Lin Yaoyao's wrist. There were tears in his eyes. He choked and asked, "Yaoyao, why did you do this?"
Lin Yaoyao closed her eyes. She didn't want to say that she wasn't strong enough. She was too cowardly.
She had let her father down.
She'd done the wrong thing, but she really couldn't go through with it. She couldn't go through with it when she thought about how many more times she'd have to face this.
She could not meet his eyes. She was ashamed.
However, she still wanted to leave selfishly.
Lin Pingsheng felt a lump in his throat. Looking at his daughter's face, he felt as if a knife was cutting into his heart. He had been virtuous all his life and refused to lower his head or join in the dirty work, but this was the outcome.
Looking at his daughter, who had no will to live, Lin Pingsheng asked himself for the first time, what was the purpose of his life?
Madam Chen had invited a doctor, and Lin Pingsheng was pushed away.
He looked at Madam Chen's anxious tears and the doctor's solemn expression,
After the bleeding was stopped and the wound was bandaged, the doctor said, "Her life is saved, but her body is a little weak from bleeding too much. You have to counsel her well. It's not good for the patient to be so extreme."
Madam Chen's eyes were red as she nodded weakly. "Okay, okay, we will."
Lin Pingsheng's expression was numb. When he heard that his daughter was fine, he walked out without saying anything.
Madam Chen looked at his back and broke down. "You only know how to teach. What's the use of guarding your pride for the rest of your life? Ah—"
After shouting, Madam Chen cried.
Lin Pingsheng only paused for a moment with heavy footsteps. He clenched his fists tightly before leaving with heavy steps.
When he arrived at the front yard, he looked calm and expressionless as he said to the group of worried students, "Continue the class."
After noon, he coldly put away his books. "Class dismissed."
After the students left, he sat down in the empty classroom.
He could not help but think of the past. At that time, he was still in the capital and his beloved daughter had not been disfigured. She stood in front of him with her head held high and her chest puffed out. She told him, "Father, I want to learn. I want to be a female teacher in the future. I want women to be able to study too. We women are not stupid. If the royal court opens a female school, we female top scorers will not be inferior to male top scorers."
He had been pleased at the time, thinking that his daughter was right. One should read more, read and read. There should be no distinction between men and women.
His daughter had the heart to study, but not all women were like this. Those scheming women had harmed his daughter for life.
But if he could remain firm and unyielding, why would he have brought his daughter to that banquet? If he hadn't, his daughter wouldn't have become a sacrificial lamb, her face burned...
A breeze blew slowly. Lin Pingsheng came back to his senses and realized that his face was covered in tears.
He wiped the tears from his face and rose shakily. Then he took a deep breath and headed out the door.
...
Sun residence.
Madam Lian came to the courtyard to see if Su Xiaolu needed anything. She had been making medicine a lot recently. Although she didn't know what she was doing, Madam Lian immediately supported Su Xiaolu if she needed anything.
Madam Lian watched as Su Xiaolu sat in the courtyard and asked for stone blocks to grind the herbs. She found it very cute. She went forward and squatted beside Su Xiaolu. She said gently, "Xiaolu, are you tired?"
Su Xiaolu smiled and said, "I'm not tired, Auntie. I was just about to look for you."
Madam Lian smiled and asked, "Why are you looking for me?"
Su Xiaolu put down the stone hammer and looked at Madam Lian seriously. "Auntie, I want to study whitening and scar removal ointment. I want you to sell it for me. I'm too young and don't have much credibility in front of others."
Su Xiaolu had thought about it carefully since Madam Chen did not believe her yesterday.
She hadn't grown up yet, but she had. She wasn't an old woman. It was hard for others to be convinced.
So she had to find someone to cooperate with. The Sun family also did business, and they were honest and liked to do good deeds. This proved that their family's character was very good.
At least one would not be scammed if they worked with them.
Madam Lian did not expect this. Seeing that Su Xiaolu was so serious, she also said seriously, "Xiaolu, go ahead and do your research. Auntie will do this business with you. Don't worry, as long as you can do it, it will definitely sell well."
The most important thing was the effect. If it worked well, it would definitely sell well.
The rich ladies of all continents were not short of money at all.
Su Xiaolu smiled and said sweetly, "Okay, thank you, Auntie. Then we'll split it 50-50. I'll provide the ointment. You will buy the raw materials and handle the sales."
When Madam Lian heard this, she quickly said, "This is too much, Xiaolu. Seven for you and three for me."
Her prescription was priceless. The Sun family had to work hard to buy medicinal herbs and sell them, but after deducting the cost, they also had a 30% interest.
Su Xiaolu was a divine doctor. The things she sold were priceless and she would not lack partners. Moreover, she saved the daughter and young master of the Sun family. This was a huge favor.
Madam Lian would agree even if she had no benefits from it.
Su Xiaolu waved her hand generously and said, "Auntie, it's not much at all. I won't be in charge of the business when the time comes. It will be more difficult for you to manage it. Of course, you won't be able to share the hardships of brewing the medicine. Since we're all contributing equally, we naturally have to share the benefits fairly. Only then can we cooperate for a long time."
Su Xiaolu's words were sincere, and Madam Lian sighed when she heard them. She looked at Su Xiaolu and said, "Okay, but I still have to add another clause. If one day, you want to take over or want to change partners, you have the right to terminate the cooperation at any time. Regardless of who takes over the management, it will be me or others in the future."
Chapter 158: Lifting the Robe and Kneeling
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
The family business would be handed over to Sun Baoshan in the future. After Sun Baoshan married, he would manage it with his wife.
Madam Lian could only promise that she would always do her best, but she was not sure what would happen next.
Su Xiaolu was her savior. Madam Lian was willing to think for her.
No matter what, the Sun family would benefit from the cooperation in the end.
But there was no guarantee that anyone who would take over in the future would be satisfied with that, so precautions had to be taken.
!!
Su Xiaoling smiled and nodded. "Okay, I'll listen to Auntie."
Of course, she would think through such details, but it felt different when Madam Lian thought for her.
In short, Su Xiaolu was very happy with the agreement.
Madam Lian looked at her and said, "Xiaolu, go ahead with your work. I won't disturb you anymore, but you have to rest when you're tired. Don't tire yourself out, understand?"
Madam Lian said with concern and stood up.
Su Xiaolu nodded. "Yes, thank you for your concern. I know."
Su Xiaolu focused on making the medicine while Madam Lian went out quietly.
She thought about what Su Xiaolu had said and prepared to discuss it with Sun Ziqian. The Sun family had a wide range of businesses, including skincare, so Su Xiaolu had really found the right person to look for. It would not be a problem for the Sun family to sell it.
But when they returned to the main courtyard, Sun Ziqian was not there. Madam Lian asked the servants in the courtyard, "Where's Master?"
The servant replied respectfully, "Teacher Lin is here to see Master. Master has just gone to the main hall."
Madam Lian instructed, "I understand. Go to the main hall and wait. When Master and Teacher Lin are done talking, call him back and say that I have something to discuss with him."
The servant nodded and left.
In the main hall.
Sun Ziqian met Lin Pingsheng. As usual, he said humbly and politely, "Hello, Teacher Lin."
Lin Pingsheng looked at Sun Ziqian and met his eyes. He said, "Master Sun, I have something to ask of you."
Needless to say, Sun Ziqian knew what he was doing. Sun Ziqian looked troubled, but he still said firmly to Lin Pingsheng, "Teacher Lin, I know you want to ask about the divine doctor. I'll help you with anything else, but I really can't help you with this."
Lin Pingsheng lowered his eyes. He lifted his robe and knelt down.
This action shocked Sun Ziqian. He hurriedly reached out to help him up and said helplessly, "Teacher Lin, why are you doing this? Hurry up and get up. I really can't help..."
Lin Pingsheng refused to get up. His heart hurt so much that he was about to suffocate. His mind was filled with the image of Lin Yaoyao lying in a pool of blood.
"Yaoyao slit her wrist..."
Lin Pingsheng's voice was very calm, but every word seemed to carry a thousand catties of force, making it difficult to breathe.
Sun Ziqian paused, also shocked and stunned. "What?"
How could she take things so hard?
Sun Ziqian looked at Lin Pingsheng, who was kneeling on the ground and refusing to get up. In this instant, he knew why he would rather abandon his pride and kneel down to beg. As a father, Sun Ziqian thought, that if he could save his child, he would also be willing to kneel down.
His heart ached.
Lin Pingsheng gulped, and his voice was filled with sorrow. "Master Sun, my life is like a joke. I studied hard for dozens of years, but I gave up on the scholarly examination. I bragged that I was a famous scholar, but I couldn't even protect my wife and daughter. Today, when I saw Yaoyao lying in a pool of blood, I regretted my life deeply."
"My daughter has suffered all her life because of me. I'm not worthy of being her father. I know that she's in so much pain, but I still want to force her to stay."
Lin Pingsheng's few words were filled with regret and helplessness.
Sun Ziqian was also moved. He helped Lin Pingsheng up and sighed. "Teacher, I promise you to ask. Wait for me here."
Sun Ziqian's heart was filled with rejection, but at this moment, it collapsed.
Lin Pingsheng was very tolerant of his children. Wasn't this an exception?
Some things could not be bought with money.
Sun Ziqian patted Lin Pingsheng lightly and turned to leave.
Lin Pingsheng pursed his thin lips and clenched his fists in his sleeves. His sorrowful eyes watched Sun Ziqian leave with a trace of hope.
As soon as Sun Ziqian went out, he was stopped by a servant to report.
Knowing that his wife had something to say, Sun Ziqian thought for a moment and said to the servant, "Go back and report to Madam that I have something to do. I'll look for her later."
Sun Ziqian headed towards the courtyard where Su Xiaolu lived.
The servant returned to the backyard to report to Madam Lian.
Madam Lian had some questions. Why was Sun Ziqian looking for Su Xiaolu?
Madam Lian thought for a moment and said, "Forget it, I'll go over and take a look."
Madam Lian also went to Su Xiaolu's courtyard.
Sun Ziqian arrived at the courtyard and saw Su Xiaolu pounding medicine. He walked over.
Su Xiaolu looked up when she heard footsteps and saw Sun Ziqian. She smiled. "Uncle Sun."
Sun Ziqian also smiled gently. He looked at Su Xiaolu and finally said, "Xiaolu, Uncle has something to tell you."
Su Xiaolu put down the stone block and looked at Sun Ziqian. "What is it? Tell me."
It just so happened that she was also a little tired and wanted to rest.
Sun Ziqian said with a melancholic expression, "Xiaolu, do you remember your brother's school? Their teacher, Lin Pingsheng, was number three in the national examinations as appointed by the emperor twenty years ago. He's full of talent, but he's too rigid and aloof. Such a person is the easiest target. If he's not roped in and refuses to bow down, the Imperial City won't tolerate him."
"He had an only daughter, Lin Yaoyao. She also became a sacrifice. Her face was accidentally burned during a competition he had with someone else. Lin Pingsheng was disappointed in the capital and brought his wife and daughter far away from that troublesome place. He came here to settle down for more than ten years. Shan and Qian were indebted to him for his careful guidance. He was very kind. When Shan and Qian got better, he asked me many times to treat his daughter. I never agreed. I always kept my promise to you, but..."
"Today he told me that his daughter had slit her wrist. His kneeling was too much for me to refuse him. I'm telling you this because I can't get over it if I don't. If you don't want to, I'll turn him down."
After Sun Ziqian finished speaking, he felt less depressed.
Su Xiaolu looked at Sun Ziqian and smiled. "Uncle Sun, I'm willing. I'm different from my master. My master only saves people based on his mood. I only save people based on benefits. As long as there are benefits that I can get, I'm willing."
"My master said that in our Minggu faction, right or wrong depends on ourselves."
Su Xiaolu had always liked the culture of Minggu because it was really free.
Even if she did evil, she would bear the consequences herself. It was fine as long as Minggu's legacy was not broken.
What was right or wrong? None of it mattered.
Chapter 159: Condition
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
Sun Ziqian was very happy. To him, it was fine as long as Su Xiaolu was willing to show her face.
He had done his part.
"Master Lin is at the residence now, Xiaolu. Can you meet him now?"
Sun Ziqian asked with relief.
Su Xiaolu nodded.
!!
Sun Ziqian brought Su Xiaolu along.
After they left, Madam Lian came out of the corner. She had been there for a while and had heard the conversation between Su Xiaolu and Sun Ziqian. She had not gone in because she felt that it was inappropriate.
Sun Ziqian would tell her about this, too.
Knowing that he was working hard on this matter, Madam Lian waited in peace.
—-
Lin Pingsheng waited anxiously in the main room. When the servants served tea, he did not touch it or even sit down.
Hearing footsteps, Lin Pingsheng became nervous.
Before this, he had already calculated in his heart what kind of confidence he had to seek treatment. After thinking about it, he only felt that it was even more ridiculous.
He was talented, but he had no money.
After living for forty-six years, Lin Pingsheng finally realized that he had lived in vain. Only then did he understand what his only close friend in the capital meant when he said goodbye.
When the breeze dissipates, desolation would be visible everywhere.
People's hearts were ugly, but they still had a glimmer of innocence.
Unfortunately, he understood too late.
It wasn't until his daughter was lying in a pool of blood that he realized that the places he didn't see were already in ruins.
Now, he should do his best to make up for those mistakes.
When Sun Ziqian and Su Xiaolu entered the main room, Lin Pingsheng was stunned.
Sun Ziqian said to Lin Pingsheng, "Master Lin, this is Su Xiaolu, the divine doctor who treated Shan and Qian. Her master is the previous divine doctor of Minggu. Although she's only four years old, she has already finished her apprenticeship."
Lin Pingsheng retracted his shocked gaze and said apologetically, "I saw her yesterday."
Lin Pingsheng found it difficult to calm down, but sometimes, fate played tricks on people.
Sun Ziqian was also shocked. He did not expect Lin Pingsheng to have an opportunity with Su Xiaolu, but seeing Lin Pingsheng so shocked now, he could only sigh in his heart.
People begged God, but when God was around, people never believed, either.
Lin Pingsheng cupped his hands and bowed to Su Xiaolu. He apologized sincerely, "Miss Su, please forgive me. I didn't recognize you. Please give me another chance. Please treat my daughter's face."
Lin Pingsheng did not know how to appear sincere. He was afraid that Su Xiaolu would be angry. He was really afraid.
He, who refused to bend, now bowed to a child.
Su Xiaolu stepped forward and said gently, "Get up. I can treat your daughter's face, but on one condition."
Lin Pingsheng looked up and asked anxiously, "What condition?"
Su Xiaolu looked at Lin Pingsheng and said seriously, "Uncle Sun said that you used to be number three in the national examinations, so you must be full of knowledge. I want you to accept my two brothers as personal disciples and teach them everything you've learned in your life."
Lin Pingsheng was chosen as one of the top three among tens of thousands of people. His knowledge was undoubtedly rich.
But he was reduced to being a stubborn teacher in a small town. One could only say that his personality was not flexible. Otherwise, he should be a high official in the court now.
Su Xiaolu did not know how harsh he was. She only knew that if her two brothers kept learning from him, they would definitely be extraordinary.
Lin Pingsheng was stunned. Finally, he lowered his head, closed his eyes, and nodded. "Okay, I promise you."
His stubborn life was just a joke. If he could save his daughter, so what if he did not have his pride?
Su Xiaolu put away her seriousness and smiled sweetly. "Then I'll go get the medicine. Just wait for me for a while."
It just so happened that she still had some scar removal medicine left.
Lin Pingsheng nodded blankly. "Okay, okay."
He found it hard to recover from his shock. Was it that simple?
After Su Xiaolu left, Sun Ziqian sighed and said, "Teacher Lin, I didn't expect you and Xiaolu to have met. Now that she has agreed, I won't hide it from you. Xiaolu's two brothers are also studying in your school."
Lin Pingsheng was stunned. "Who are they?"
Sun Ziqian looked at Lin Pingsheng and said truthfully, "It's Su Chong and Su Hua."
Lin Pingsheng was surprised. "It's them?"
Sun Ziqian nodded and said, "Now that they've been taught by you for more than half a year, what do you think of the two brothers?"
Lin Pingsheng sighed and said, "Su Chong's words are considered intelligent. It shouldn't be a problem for him to become a scholar in the future. Su Hua is extremely intelligent and meticulous. I've been teaching here for many years, but I've only met someone who can understand things like he did. He and Su Chong were quite old when they enrolled. When I asked them, they didn't hide anything and directly told me."
When he knew they'd had a screw loose in their heads before, Lin Pingsheng did not think much of it, he thought they were just a little late.
.
"It's my honor to take them as my disciples."
Lin Pingsheng finally said. He was originally worried that Su Xiaolu's brothers were just mediocre people. Now that he knew it was Su Chong and Su Hua, he was not repulsed at all. Instead, he was a little happy.
He had wasted his life. It would be his honor to have disciples who could make him proud.
Sun Ziqian sighed and said, "Then I'll congratulate Teacher first. With Xiaolu around, Yaoyao will definitely be fine. Teacher's wish will be fulfilled."
Lin Pingsheng looked at Sun Ziqian gratefully. He thought for a moment and asked, "Shan and Qian are also very smart. When will they recover?"
Sun Ziqian smiled and said, "In three years. By then, Shan will be able to enter the academy."
Perhaps knowing Lin Pingsheng's worries, Sun Ziqian said again, "Teacher, you can rest assured and wait. The Minggu sect has been passed down for thousands of years. People have always described it this way: If the King of Hell wants you dead at midnight, the divine doctor can make you stay until three in the morning."
"In the past, the doctor didn't like crowds and didn't allow us to reveal his whereabouts to others. When Yaoyao recovers, please do the same. Please understand."
Sun Ziqian instructed sincerely. He was afraid that Lin Pingsheng would be too inflexible. If Lin Yaoyao recovered and someone asked, he would tell them.
The divine doctor could not be offended.
Lin Pingsheng nodded. He cupped his hands gratefully at Sun Ziqian and said sincerely, "Thank you for your reminder, Master Sun. I'll remember it."
Sun Ziqian had stepped aside when Lin Pingsheng bowed. He would have to ask Lin Pingsheng to teach his son in the future.
Sun Ziqian smiled gently and said nothing more.
Lin Pingsheng also had a smile on his face.
Su Xiaolu carried a large jar over and placed it on the table. She said, "Here, take this ointment back and let your daughter apply a lot of it every night when she goes to bed. Put it thick on her face and scars."
Thinking of Lin Yaoyao, Su Xiaolu smiled and said, "I saw her that day. Her condition isn't too bad. She'll be fine in two to three months."
Chapter 160: Thank Goodness
Translator: Atlas Studios Editor: Atlas Studios
Lin Yaoyao's scars could be completely removed.
After Su Xiaolu finished speaking, she seemed to have thought of something and said, "This jar can be used for about half a month. If it's effective in half a month, you will take my eldest brother and second brother as your disciples. You have to teach them like your own sons. You can't hide anything."
She wanted to take advantage, but she would also give it to others.
She was definitely the best collaborator.
Lin Pingsheng had the knowledge that her eldest brother and second brother yearned for. As a teacher, which one of them did not hide their knowledge? Only the last disciple they accepted would be taught diligently. Only the students they personally accepted could enjoy the best teaching.
!!
Lin Pingsheng looked at Su Xiaolu and nodded solemnly. Seeing Su Xiaolu's determined gaze, Lin Pingsheng could not help but say, "Miss Su, if you want to learn, I'm willing to teach you everything."
Such a young child with such amazing talent. If she wanted to learn, he'd be willing to teach her, and he wouldn't hold back.
She was a little embarrassed to be suddenly liked. She pursed her lips and said, "I don't need it. I specialize in medicine."
Moreover, soon, there might be a very powerful swordsman who would teach her sword techniques. In the future, she would have to travel the world with her sword.
She already knows all the knowledge she needed to know. It was enough for her purposes.
Lin Pingsheng nodded. "Okay."
Su Xiaolu smiled and said, "Then bring it back for your daughter to use first. I'll see you in half a month."
Lin Pingsheng nodded.
Su Xiaolu said, "Then I'll go back first."
After Su Xiaolu left, Lin Pingsheng carried a large jar filled with ointment and said to Sun Ziqian, "Master Sun, I'll be going back too. Thank you for today."
Sun Ziqian did not ask him to stay and sent Lin Pingsheng out of the residence with a gentle smile.
Sun Ziqian also hurried back. Madam Lian had been waiting for a long time.
She poured him a cup of tea when he returned.
Sun Ziqian gave a knowing smile and said, "Madam knows me well."
He happened to be thirsty. After a warm cup of tea, he felt very comfortable. Sun Ziqian spoke to Madam Lian about the day's events.
Madam Lian listened with a smile. When Sun Ziqian finished, she smiled and said, "What a coincidence. I have something to tell you today too."
Madam Lian told Sun Ziqian that Su Xiaolu wanted to work with her.
Sun Ziqian couldn't help but sigh after hearing this. "If that's the case, even if Teacher Lin can't meet Xiaolu, it won't be long before he can buy scar removal medicine for Lin Yaoyao."
Now he had treated her face in advance, but he owed her a favor.
Favors are the hardest to repay in the world.
Madam Lian shook her head and said, "No, although it won't be long, you have forgotten that every day feels like a year to Lin Yaoyao. Perhaps she will do something stupid again."
One cannot stop someone who wishes to die.
Lin Pingsheng was lucky to have met Su Xiaolu.
If he waited another year or so, he would probably spend his life in regret.
If Lin Yaoyao was gone, Madam Chen probably wouldn't be able to survive either. What awaited Lin Pingsheng was a lonely and miserable ending.
Sun Ziqian thought for a moment, then sighed again. "Thank goodness, thank goodness."
Sun Ziqian looked at Madam Lian and could not help but hold her hand tightly. He said gently, "We were lucky too."
Su Xiaolu was still young, but she would grow up and become the new divine doctor.
But if he hadn't met her now, his children wouldn't have had the chance to meet her. So, he was really lucky.
He had spent a lot of money sending letters to Minggu to seek treatment, but there had been no news for many years. Therefore, it was obvious that the divine doctor had only come to the Sun residence for his precious disciple.
Thinking of that old man, Sun Ziqian sighed in his heart. He was both the most heartless and the most affectionate. It was just that his heart was too small and would only be saved for those he really cared for, such as his precious disciple.
Madam Lian smiled and said, "So, we have to treat the Su family very well and befriend them with our conscience. In the future, when teaching Shan, you have to make him remember this too."
Sun Baoqian and Sun Baoshan were about the same age as Su Xiaolu. It was best to exchange sincerity for friendship.
Sun Ziqian smiled and nodded. Of course, he was all for that.
The couple looked at each other and smiled. There was no need to say anything else. Their hearts were in one place.
—-
When Lin Pingsheng returned home, he couldn't wait to see Lin Yaoyao.
He pushed open the door and saw that she was still crying. He walked over and said, "Madam, our daughter is saved."
Lin Yaoyao was still asleep. When she heard the commotion, she woke up, but she didn't know how to face it, so she chose to continue sleeping.
Madam Sun was originally very sad. Seeing Lin Pingsheng like this, she could not help but have a guess in her heart. She asked, "Could it be that the Sun residence is willing to tell you the whereabouts of the divine doctor?"
Lin Pingsheng nodded and didn't hide anything. He said, "Yes, and they gave the ointment."
Lin Pingsheng handed the jar full of ointment to Madam Chen. Madam Chen asked suspiciously, "Are you lying to me? Why is there such a coincidence?"
As she thought about it, Madam Chen felt terrible.
Lin Pingsheng had no choice but to explain the events of the day to Madam Chen. He spoke seriously and looked directly at Madam Chen's suspicions. With him being so honest, Madam Chen also let go of her suspicions.
In the end, she understood, too.
But she was still shocked. "So, I was wrong to kick them out yesterday."
Madam Chen thought about how she had chased Madam Zhao, Madam Qian, and Su Xiaolu out yesterday and felt waves of regret in her heart. Then she thought about how Lin Yaoyao had tried to take her own life today. Madam Chen wept and lamented, "I was blind and almost killed my daughter."
She was only glad now that her daughter was all right. She would never have forgiven herself otherwise.
If anything happened to her daughter, she wouldn't be able to take it anymore.
Thank goodness, thank goodness.
After calming herself down, Madam Chen said, "Then let's try it for half a month and see what effect it has."
Lin Pingsheng nodded. "I think so too."
Madam Chen looked at the unconscious Lin Yaoyao. She unscrewed the jar and used her hand to apply the light pink ointment. She rolled up her sleeve and wiped it on the scar on her arm.
Seeing that there was no discomfort, she relaxed and said to Lin Pingsheng, "There's no tingling or discomfort, and the smell is not pungent. It's very moist and refreshing. We can rest assured and let our daughter use it."
She could relax. At least it wouldn't hurt.
Lin Pingsheng nodded and said gently, "Madam, take good care of Yaoyao. I'll go cook."
Madam Chen said quickly, "I'll go."
These things were always her job.
Lin Pingsheng looked at Madam Chen and gently smoothed her hair. "Let me do it. I was too old-fashioned in the past. It won't happen again. I'm very glad that it's not too late."
He still had time. He could make up for Madam Chen. He couldn't make her white hair turn black, but he could help her grow fewer white hairs.
Lin Pingsheng went out. Madam Chen shed tears of joy. She looked at Lin Yaoyao and seemed to know that she had woken up. She said gently to Lin Yaoyao, "Yaoyao, trust me one more time, okay? This time, it will definitely be fine."