Chapter 51: Rounder Than The Round Moon
snusnuu warning
"From now on, you have me." Lin Si Yao kissed her soft osmanthus scented lips as he made the vow. He would never allow her to get hurt again, no matter who it was.
"Nm, thank you..." Su Shuilian's misty eyes brightened as she smiled and looked up into his pair of bottomless dark eyes.
"Don't be so courteous to me" He gave her lips a nibble, seemingly as a punishment, but it was more of a promise. Yes, between husband and wife, being polite was superfluous.
"Let's go back inside." Lin Si Yao reluctantly left her lips; he kneaded her lips with his thumb and said in a firm tone.
"Right now? ...But the moon still isn't at its highest point..." Su Shuilain looked up at the moon which reached to the height of the cherry tree. She lightly patted her reddened cheeks, trying to sober up.
"It's just about there." He couldn't wait any longer. Who said they had to sit and view the full moon? Why not view it from the bedroom? Pretty sure it would be much better to watch the moon through the bedroom window while hugging her in bed.
And so, Lin Si Yao, no longer caring for his little woman's opinion, lifted her and went into the bedroom. He placed her on the bed and quickly stripped off their clothes before leaning on her.
The light in the room flickered and the moon shone brightly outside.
When the wolf pups watched them enter, they shook their heads and wagged their tail in response. They happily made their way to the stone table, Wahaha.... All of the food on the tabletop was now theirs!
---
"Ugh....."
Su Shuilian woke up and massaged her temples. She internally complained: wasn't it just three cups? When she had competed with her brother, she could at least consume a small bottle, but then again, those were grape wines. Maybe the osmanthus scented wine here was higher in alcohol volume, making her not remember what had happened after she became drunk... and how exactly did she come back into their bedroom?
"Awake?" Lin Si Yao's amused voice sounded by her ears. Her back was on his chest while his arms were wrapped around her body. They were very close and she could feel the warmth of his body all over her.
Su Shuilian blushed to her ears. She tried to shrink her body away, trying hard not to let her hip touch his lower abdomen. She was too shy to look back. Only heaven knew, this was the first time she had ever encountered this kind of position where two people were so close to each other.
In the past, whether she had been awake or not, he would always bathe with her and afterwards help her dress while putting on his own trousers.
However, last night.... Could it be said that it was the osmanthus wine that had caused this? She felt even more ashamed.
"Shuilian..." Lin Si Yao chuckled; he knew she was embarrassed. Since the day of their wedding, they had been intimate more than ten times, yet she could still not face his "sincerity".
"Hey! Lin Si Yao!" Su Shuilian could not help but yell; in a blink of an eye, her whole body flushed.
In one smooth motion, he had turned her body around; because of the sudden movement, she could only hold her hands against his chest. Su Shuilian pouted and looked at his face, afraid to look anywhere else.
"Hahaha...." Seeing this, Lin Si Yao could not help but let out a genuine laugh. This sudden change of expression from his seemingly frozen face stunned Su Shuilian as she gaped at him.
He... he looked very handsome when he laughed...
Su Shuilian unconsciously lifted her hands towards his handsome smiling face. His curved brows, his straight nose, his thin lips, ... and the two dimples on his face from laughing.
Yes, the previously cold and heartless assassin, from laughing, had two cute and charming dimples.
"It's because of this?" She subconsciously let out her thoughts.
"Hm?" With only a smile remaining on his face, Lin Si Yao raised his brow questioningly at Su Shuilian's random question.
"You don't usually smile, is it because of the dimples?" Su Shuilian pinched his cheeks. She continued to look at his lovely dimples.
"You like (them)?" He took her tiny hands and placed them on his waist before his hands started to roam around her smooth body.
"A Yao..." When Su Shuilian realized what he was about to do, she shyly struggled. Since it was to no avail, she rested her hands on the multiple faded scars on his body.
On the night of their wedding, she had already noticed these wounds, but because he hadn't spoken about them, she did not ask. However, looking at these numerous scars, she could already imagine how hard it had been for him.
"It's ugly isn't it?" Every time she stroked his scars, Lin Si Yao would ask this question.
"Not ugly." She replied. Yes; in her eyes, the appearance of these scars didn't matter at all. However, she was distressed as she thought about his past sufferings.
When she first saw them, she had asked, "A Yao, would drinking the liquid in the gourd help with these scars?"
"Not sure." He had calmly replied.
Truthfully, he knew the effects of the Jade Fairy's Essence. When she had fed a spoonful of it to him in addition to applying it topically on the injury as he was recovering, there was no pain at the site and the deep penetrating wound on his chest and abdomen had also disappeared.
"Are you sick of me?" He pretended to be hurt by her question, afraid that she would take out the gourd and force him to use it.
He could help but want to sigh, thinking how she wanted to use such a sacred treasure as a general scar reducing medicine.
"Of course not!" Su Shuilian quickly replied waving her hands; she was just worried for him, that was all.
"That's good. Then from now on do not worry about these meaningless scars." He lightly said.
---
"A... A Yao... shouldn't we get up? It's already bright outside." Su Shuilian could not look directly at his burning gaze as her eyes wandered back and forth.
"It's still early." He held onto her, not allowing her to move. His lower half was ready again and moved restlessly.
"But isn't Dabao coming early today for practice?" She had previously heard him say to Dabao that if there were no accidents, he was to report here early to train.
"Nm." He acknowledged it as his mood instantly plummeted. If he had known that it was so troublesome, he wouldn't have accepted a disciple.
"Give me a kiss." Lin Si Yao said with a smile. Since he could no longer hug her, might as well have her comfort him for restraining his desire.
Su Shuilian bashfully wrapped her arms around his neck and brought his face closer to hers before planting a light kiss on his lips.
Her shallow peck did not satisfy Lin Si Yao. He sucked on her lips, and as they parted, he seized the chance and stuck his tongue in, intertwining it with hers.
"A Yao..." She breathed out and said it as a warning. From the door, she could hear light sounds of knocking.
"Damn it." Lin Si Yao lightly cursed as he held back his desire and got out of bed.
Chapter 52: Preparing for Winter
Time passed quickly and soon it was Da Hui country's September celebration for a decade of good harvest. And with that, it had been exactly six months since she had transmigrated.
Tian Dabao had been following Lin Si Yao, calling him "Shifu" for about a month and a half. In addition to his routine homework of practicing the horse stance and , he had finally started to learn the art of qinggong and swordfighting from Lin Si Yao.
The iron sword that Tian Dabao used was made by Aunt Lao's eldest son, Lao Yongfu, at the request of Tian Dafu. Although it looked dull and crudely made, Tian Dabao cherished it. Aunt Tian had joked that even when he was sleeping, Dabao would hold on to it, not letting it go.
Ever since Lin Si Yao accepted Tian Dabao as a disciple, the morning chores - such as walking the wolf pups and the occasional hunt for wild animals- were all handed over to Dabao to do.
And Lin Si Yao himself would cuddle his lovely and innocent wife until the sun was three poles high in the sky (late in the morning) when Tian Dabao would be dragged back by the wolves. Of course he was uninjured, having just collapsed from exhaustion.
However, that situation started to change within a month's time. Instead of being dragged back, he was following the wolves from far behind, then he would be right behind them, and soon he was able to make it home at the same time as the wolves, albeit out of breath.
Tian Dabao's growth was both gratifying and obvious.
He had a good constitution. Lin Si Yao had already known this and that was the second reason why he had taken him in. Without a proper constitution, even with hard work one could only gain a strong and healthy body but wouldn't be able to attain mastery as a martial artist.
For the main reason, of course it was to have another person protect her. To Lin Si Yao's knowledge, other than Su Shuilian, he had never suffered a loss before.
If Tian Dabao wanted to learn the Profound Thousand Steps he had used previously, he would teach it. If he wanted to learn the stylish Saint Sword moves, he would teach it. As long as Tian Dabao wanted to learn, he would do his best to impart his knowledge. However, in the future if she were ever in any danger, he would have to protect his Shi Niang at all cost. That was his only condition.
---
The villagers of Fan Hua Town had been looking forward to the annual Autumn Harvest.
The Village Chief, Wang Gengfa, had visited Lin Si Yao.
The reason was not related to him; after the Autumn Harvest, the two acres of fertile land would be officially transferred to them. Not only that, after the rice paddies, corn, and soy had been harvested, the rest of the poles needed to be cleared. The key point was that the winter wheat and also other winter vestibules could now be planted in the fields.
Wang Gengfa was aware that Lin Si Yao was proficient in martial arts and that he could do the work of two people. So he hoped Lin Si Yao could help them with their Autumn Harvest. Of course, his side would help with the clean up and promised to give Lin Si Yao five hundred catties* of millet and one hundred catties of corn.
(Catty, 斤- weight equal to 0.5 kg)
Lin Si Yao raised no objections and readily agreed.
It was not because of the reward, but he had wanted to get a few pointers from an experienced farmer.
Yes, Lin Si Yao was clueless when it came to farming.
To ask a man who had been an assassin for more than a decade to be able to plant and make a good harvest without any prior knowledge was just wishful thinking.
He didn't know anything about it and that was why he agreed so readily. Not only did he accept the Village Chief's request, but he also went to ask the Lao House and Tian House on his own. There were no other reasons; he just desired to know more about the work involved during Autumn Harvest. He wanted to familiarize himself with farm work.
As for Spring next year, would the Village Chief, Tian House, and Lao House who had received a favor from him just stand idle? No, they would take the initiative to come guide him.
Therefore, Lin Si Yao would not suffer any losses. Sometimes assassins understood the concept of reciprocity and mutual benefits better than businessmen.
---
Su Shuilian was committed to sewing winter clothes and winter quilts, hoping to peacefully get by the winter weather.
For winter clothes, she had adapted the latest fashion from the Republic of China to them instead of making the commonly worn from this era.
She made a And for convenient washing, the inner cotton lining was detachable.
On Lin Si Yao's black colored winter gown, Su Shuilian embroidered sky blue double-petal hibiscus. This was his choice from the dozen drawings that she had sketched out and it was also her favorite tree flower. A blooming double-petal hibiscus was beautiful but not flamboyant. Their slender branches were abundant, but they did not cluster together. Its subtle image gave it a gentle demure.
She was surprised when Lin Si Yao chose it instead of the lush green bamboo, the meadow of orchids... instead of the winter pine trees or the frozen plum flowers.
She asked him for the reason, but he had only replied with a jaw-dropping, astounding, mesmerizing smile that had once again made his cute dimples visible.
Su Shuilian's cherry red cotton winter clothes were chosen by Lin Si Yao. Embroidered on it was a cluster of . The dark pink roses blooming in contrast to the dark green shrubs were extremely poise and gorgeous.
This was what she had really liked, but could not do in the past. Wild roses, to the esteemed father of Su House, were not fit to be worn in public.
The Su House had always advocated for only dignified and noble plants. Examples would include water lily, conifers, or
She personally loved the thorny Japanese roses and wisteria flowers but she had been scolded by the patriarch multiple times. She was not allowed to waste time on these wild flowers, because the annual embroidery competition had no place for them.
Now, she could openly embroider them on their clothes, cushions, and tablecloth without being lectured about how it was a waste of time.
And so, after she had completed the two pieces of winter clothing, Su Shuilian made a tablecloth with wisteria on it to alleviate her passion for the flowers.
Afterward, she began to sew the winter quilts, hoping to peacefully get by the winter weather.
Two mattress blankets and two mattress covers.
One of the bed covers was lake blue while the other one was a goose yellow.
On the blue cover were red lotus flowers accompanied by lush green lotus leaves creating ripples in a lake. And for the goose yellow cover, Su Shuilian sewed a colorful variety of winter plums. A beautiful and delicate foliage of seven colors: deep red, crimson, bright yellow, light pink, jade white, lotus green, and light purple flowers blooming beautifully on a branch.
When she was done with the winter quilts, the Autumn Harvest was just about to end.
All of the Village Head's crops were harvested. Wang Gengfa allowed Tian Dabao to bring a cart to carry the promised 500 catties of millet and 100 catties of corn. Taking advantage of the good weather, Lin Si Yao spread the batches onto a woven mat (that he made) to dry by the riverbank.
After seven days under the sun, the dried millet and corn were about done.
The following days, Lin Si Yao was busy processing the grains. He made Tian Dabao practice the Profound Thousand Step on the quincuncial piles. He had asked the mason to build a millstone for dehulling millets. After the husk had been separated from the millet, he then spread it on the mat to allow the wind to blow the husk away.
And just like that, one was in the embroidery room sewing, while the other was by the riverbank dehulling millet and threshing corn.
After the 500 catties of millet were demulled and grinded, there were about 360 catties left. Lin Si Yao then split it into three portions. Eighty catties to make noodles with, another eighty to make millet *, and the remaining two hundred catties were stored in a cabinet and should last until spring.
(Nian gao, 年糕 - or Chinese New Year's cake, is a food prepared from glutinous rice; traditionally it is most popular during Chinese New Year.)
All of the corn kernels, along with eighty catties of millet, were brought to Fan Hua's only millhouse: Wen House's MillHouse. It was there that Lin Si Yao had it all grind into corn flour.
Now their food ration should be enough to cover them for winter and another six months. Their clothing for winter had also been completed.
Ah yes, and as for the animal fur that Lin Si Yao had hunted, cleaned, and placed into a cabinet, it had already been used up by Su Shuilian.
From the fur, two waistcoats, two pairs of knee pads, a fur hat, and also a bunch of were made. The hat was Lin Si Yao's, the hand warmers were Su Shuilian's and they each had their own knee pads and waistcoat.
Although during the whole sewing process Lin Si Yao had strongly insisted that he didn't need a set of his own. However, Su Shuilian continued to make it according to his size. It was better to be safe than sorry. What if he could not withstand the winter here?
The persistent Eldest Su Miss had forgotten that Lin Si Yao was a native and also a highly skilled martial artist. Unlike her, who has never seen snow filling up more than three inches above ground.
As for the daily ingredients, the vegetables planted in the south wing garden were about ready. Regarding the two acres of fertile land, other than the winter wheat, there was also a section that had been used to plant vegetables. Spinach, Chinese cabbage, potatoes, and other vegetables that were able to grow in winter were planted there one by one.
Protein-wise, Lin Si Yao went out to the forest along with Xiao Chun to hunt for animals that had yet to go off hibernating. If they were caught alive, he would place them beside the newly made fence next to the chicken coup. If the animals were caught wounded, he would kill and then preserve them. The others were made into different dishes, braised or stewed, and were then sent to Lao House and Tian House as thanks for the mutual assistance. Of course the wolf pups also had their fair share as they were able to have meat-filled meals for several days. They were quite happy and excited, and were eager to go hunting again. However, they quickly calmed down with a simple glare from Lin Si Yao and reluctantly went back into their house.
One day, while Tian Dabao was practicing on the quincuncial piles, he noticed that in the clear river, there were a bunch of common carps, crucian carps, and black craps swimming around.
This meandering river came downstream from the west mountains. Su Shuilian's house was the first house it passed, so naturally there would be many fishes.
And so, after Tian Dabao went back in the afternoon for lunch, he returned with a large fish net.
Under the glittering eyes of Su Shuilian and the two wolf pups, Lin Si Yao reluctantly took the fish net and went into the river to catch the fish.
As one could imagine, the first time the net was pulled up, looking at the large number of bouncing fish, shrimps, and crabs, the shock on their faces soon turned into joy and excitement.
Not only would they have a feast tonight, but beside the thick-scented wild animal meat from the forest, they could also enjoy another delicacy during the winter: fish and crustacean.
After fishing for a while, all of the catches filled all of the containers that the two houses had.
Su Shuilian allowed Tian Dabao to take half and then gave a large tub to Lao House; the rest was theirs. After picking out a few for that night, the rest were immersed in salt water. After being marinated for two days, they were taken out and hung up one by one, dried in the sun for three days before being brought into the kitchen.
Now, the choices of food for winter consumption had just increased by one...
Chapter 53: Birthday Celebration
The tenth day of the tenth lunar month was a cloudless day.
Today was Lin Si Yao's birthday and it was also the first sunny day after several gloomy days of autumn rain. Su Shuilian woke up and was pleasantly surprised.
"(Are you) that happy?" Lin Si Yao said and hugged her from behind. He nestled closer and placed his chin on her smooth back.
"Of course; today is your birthday so yesterday I prayed and it has actually become a sunny day." From his actions, Su Shuilian could not help but giggle.
"So what if it's my birthday?" He said with a face of disapproval.
Ever since he could remember, he had always been an orphan. He was known as Xiao Yao and lived in Yun Luo Temple, a small rundown temple, for eight years. After the old abbot that he had depended on died, he decided to close down the temple and went down the mountain. He had previously gone down with the old abbot a few times for some errands, but had always thought it was just a bit more crowded and had more things, without any idea of how much harder it was to live there. He was beaten up by his co-workers and scolded by his employers. He had been cheated from, he had stolen, he had even begged. It went on until he was forced into exile to Gan Ming City, where he became an insignificant waiter in a tea house. He had thought his life would continue to be like that, until he reached the age of ten.
Who knew that the person in charge of his fate was playing a trick on him.
A year later, after his work was completed, he helped a customer get back his purse. It was then when an executive of one of the top three assassination organizations, the lord of Feng Yao Court had discovered him to have a good constitution. The lord immediately took him in and sent him to Black Tortoise (XuanWu) Mountain where he was made a disciple to a daoist spiritual master. Three years passed, no longer was he Xiao Yao, but 'Si Ling'. 'Si' was the generic surname for every assassin in Feng Yao Court and 'Ling' meant leader.
As the assassin 'Si Ling', in six years, from a no-name fledgling, he climbed up to be one of the top assassins of Jianghu. He became Feng Yao Court's number one 'killing god'. And so, he thought that he was going to spend the rest of his life like that.
The tenth of the tenth month was his birthday, that was what the old abbot told him. However, who knew the truth? But on this day, the old abbot would always cook him a bowl of noodles with an egg for his birthday. Later, when he was in Feng Yao Court, as long as he completed all of his tasks, the kitchen would send him a bowl of longevity noodles. Every single year, the arrangements were unaltered. He knew that this was the kind regard of the old lord.
This continued until a year and a half ago, when the previous Feng Yao Court's owner had died. The inheritance process was simple as the previous lord only had one son, Feng Qingya. However, he was incomparable to the previous lord. The new lord feared that the charismatic Si Ling might steal his newly acquired post.
And so, with his new position, Feng Qingya ordered him to come for a chat.
Three cups of wine, toasts aiming to end his life.
He had never expected that Feng Qingya, who he always had practice matches with and his other friends, would ever attempt to poison him with two types of odorless and tasteless poison. One of which was the bone-softening powder with which the victim would become completely weak within thirty minutes of consumption. The other was the scarlet dove poison, a toxic gas that aimed at the heart. These substances were considered to be the top toxins of Feng Yao Court.
When Si Ling had discovered something was wrong, it was already too late as both poisons had invaded his body. He quickly closed his meridians and pretended to be fine as he retired himself. Once he exited the room, he extracted a part of the poison and fled out of Feng Yao Court. Feng Qingya had long prepared for this as he branded him as a wanted criminal and ordered all of the assassins of Feng Yao Court to kill him unconditionally. The reason given was the vengeance of the old master.
And now, the assassin 'Si Ling' was proclaimed dead. He was Lin Si Yao now. He was just a farmer who had no relations with Feng Yao Court.
Fate was just indescribable, wasn't it? As Lin Si Yao thought of this point, he bitterly shook his head.
In one year's time, from being Feng Yao Court's highest source of easy income to getting branded as a traitor - the murderer of the previous owner. Since he had owed the previous master a debt of gratitude, he would let this matter go. However, there would absolutely be no next time.
---
"A Yao, are we really not going to bring Dabao with us?" Su Shuilian asked as she once again turned back to see the two wolf pups and the aggrieved looking Tian Dabao.
"Didn't you say you want to celebrate my birthday?" Lin Si Yao lightly frowned.
"Yes, Xicui said that Wu Qin Restaurant's longevity noodles are famous for its taste." Su Shuilian nodded her head.
In fact, she had actually wanted to make longevity noodles herself. While Lin Si Yao was out training Tian Dabao in the forest, Su Shuilian attempted to make them. She had wanted to surprise him. However, a surprise to him ended up being hers: the dough noodles became a diluted batter. She didn't want to just give up, so she decided to start over, but soon discovered that she had used up all the remaining wheat flour in the house. Sob*, now it's impossible to make the longevity noodles... She could only make a large batch of for everyone's breakfast. While they were eating, the wolf pups' eyes showed pity for their master. Woowoowoo, master, it's already a surprise that you can't cook.
However, since it was his birthday, Su Shuilian insisted on going to the city with him to buy more flour. Also, she decided to visit the "Wu Qin Restaurant" that Xicui had continuously talked about to celebrate Lin Si Yao's birthday.
"And that's that, what's the problem?" Lin Si Yao gave her a questioning glance. Didn't she know that bringing children would be a troublesome thing? There would be one more mouth to feed, another pair of legs following along. And most importantly, if he wanted to make more intimate moves, there would be one more pair of eyes watching. In short, he, Lin Si Yao, would never allow a date to be disrupted because of a disciple. He had already been peeved a few times after accepting this disciple. Of course every time he had been annoyed was during his affectionate time with his very shy wife.
Su Shuilian could only reluctantly turn back towards Tian Dabao and waved at him, "Good Dabao, go home for now. Shi Niang will make sure to bring back some delicious food for you."
When Lin Si Yao heard this, he chuckled and glanced at Su Shuilian. The way that she spoke to Tian Dabao was like talking to a baby nephew, even though she herself was only three years older than him.
If Tian Dabao wasn't mentally impaired, he would have never accepted him as a disciple. With a twelve-year-old disciple and a fifteen-year-old Shi Niang, he was not assured. Not because he did not believe in Su Shuilian, but because he didn't trust Tian Dabao, an almost grown man.
"Hold on tight." Making sure there was no one around, Lin Si Yao wrapped his arm around Su Shuilian's waist and brought her close to his chest as she wrapped her arms around his neck. Using the Profound Thousand Step, after a few leaps, he was out of Tian Dabao's sight.
"Wow, Shifu is so cool." Tian Dabao was no longer aggrieved, his emotions had taken a turn with Lin Si Yao's qigong. No, snap out of it! I have to get back to practice! Tian Dabao flattened his lips and clenched his fists before turning back at the Xiao Chun and Xiao Xiu who were guarding the front door and waved, "Out of the two, who wants to come train with me?" Master's order: no matter what, the house always had to be guarded by one of the large dogs.
The two wolf pups seemed to have understood him as they glanced at each other before the slightly smaller Xiao Xiu stepped forward. Since Xiao Chun had gone out this morning with them, it seems it was her turn. Xiao Xiu was reluctant, but since going into the forest meant getting more delicious meat, she'll put up with it.
At once, the pair, one child and one wolf, quickly made their way down the winding path below Dashi Mountain, gradually becoming small dots.
Xiao Chun, who was left behind to guard the house, averted his eyes from them and lowered his head. He laid down by the gates of their house to take a nap under the rare warm rays of the late autumn sun.
---
"A Yao, other than the longevity noodles, is there anything else you want to try?" Sitting in a private room on the second floor of Wu Qin Restaurant, Su Shuilian happily asked Lin Si Yao while holding a thick menu.
"Whatever you want." Lin Si Yao poured hot tea that was just brought up by the waiter into Su Shuilian's cup before pouring himself a cup.
He was never picky. This was not because of his previous occupation as an assassin, but was because of his eight years living in Yun Luo Temple as well as his two years living alone fending on his own. As long as it could fill his stomach, it didn't matter what he was eating.
His nine years of being an assassin had allowed him to accumulate a lot of gold and silver, enough for him to even buy this whole city. However, he had sent some of this money to the mountain where Yun Luo Temple was for its maintenance. The remaining amount was hidden by him in a secret location for him to use once he retired. However, that location was near the boundaries of Feng Yao Court. So the him now could not retrieve it, nor did he want to retrieve it.
"But today is your birthday..." Su Shuilian had one hand on her chin while the other was flipping through the menu as she quietly muttered.
"Anything you like to eat, I'll like too." Lin Si Yao pondered for a bit before he said that to comfort her. Once he realized what he had said, he became a bit embarrassed. He immediately used his qi to push down the blush that had crept up to his ears. Hmm, since when did an assassin learn to sweet talk, and so easily too?
When Su Shuilian heard this, her two cheeks flushed red, her heart fluttering as if it had consumed something sugary.
Just at this moment, Wu Qin Restaurant's waiter came knocking at the door to receive their orders.
"Mr. Waiter, we'll take your signature dishes and also a bowl of longevity noodles." Su Shuilian read the menu multiple times and finally decided on ordering the restaurant's signature dishes. These six signature dishes were as followed: , , , Sauteed Squash, and.
"Ok! Because Madam ordered all six of our signature dishes, we will give a small gift, this is a birthday celebration correct?" The waiter joyfully noted down their order.
"Yes, Mr Waiter, today is my husband's birthday." Su Shuilian placed the menu down as she smiled and replied.
"Then this little one wishes the esteemed guest a happy birthday. The dishes will be ready in a bit." The waiter cupped his hands towards Lin Si Yao before he walked away after closing the curtains of the private room.
The two quietly enjoyed their tea and spoke to each other from time to time. Because their room was right by the main street outside, just looking out the window allows for a clear view to the busy street. "A Yao, after we eat, let's go out and take a walk by the river. And before we go home, let's also restock our supplies, is that ok?" Such good weather, it would be a shame not to enjoy it.
"Ok." Lin Si Yao nodded this head in reply.
"Hm? Isn't that the girl from last time?" Su Shuilian noticed across the street was Lu Wan'er who was admiring the jewelry in a shop. She was still just as charming and coquettish; all of the passing men would turn back around just to take a few more glimpses of her rare looks.
"Don't recognize her." Lin Si Yao glanced up before resuming back to filling Su Shuilain's cup with more tea.
"Eh? You don't recognize her? That... it was that day...." The girl who was chasing you to confess her feelings... Su Shuilian could only swallow the rest of the words when Lin Si Yao gave her a meaningful glance. Ok, in fact, she didn't want him to remember her either.
"It's ready--" After the loud voice sounded, the curtains were lifted and the waiter came in with a large serving tray full of food.
With just seven dishes, the two people's rectangular table was almost filled.
"Esteemed guests, these are our restaurant's signature dishes. This dish on the house for the birthday boy." The waiter said as he placed the dish of (alcoholic chicken feet) on the table as he smiled and left the private room.
"This is their service gift?" Su Shuilian smiled as she picked up a 'phoenix claw' with her chopsticks and placed it in Lin Si Yao's bowl. "Come, birthday boy, haha, I wish you a happy birthday!"
Lin Si Yao raised his eyebrow as he thoughtfully looked at her. She seemed a little unusual today. But he quickly picked up the phoenix claw into his mouth. They seemed to put a lot of alcohol in this dish, wouldn't she become drunk after two pieces?
"How is the taste?" Su Shuilian watched Lin Si Yao as he slowly took a bite. Her eyes staring straight at him and curiously asked.
She had never tried Phoenix Claws before. Even though it was a common dish even during her previous life during the Republic of China in Suzhou, she never had a chance to try it. Or it could be said, as the eldest miss of a prestigious family, she could not sully her identity to eat "commoner's food".
"Are you not going to eat?" Lin Si Yao looked up. His own bowl was already filled with all the best parts of every dish: Duck and Chicken drumsticks, the fish meat from the center of its body, and many shrimps.
"You are the birthday boy today, haha.... Quickly eat, if there's not enough, we can order more." After Su Shuilian filled Lin Si Yao's bowl to the brim, she carefully took a scoop of the squashed pea and corn jasper soup and drank it.
"You should eat more too, you are too skinny." When Lin Si Yao had realized her intention, he frowned and replied. Picking up a duck drumstick, he placed it into Su Shuilian's bowl.
"You are exaggerating." Su Shuilian wrinkled her nose, but she did not decline his kind gesture. She picked up the drumsticks with her chopsticks and took a small bite before she looked up and smiled at Lin Si Yao. Suddenly, as if she thought of something, in a blink of an eye, she let out a 'pfft' and started to laugh. "Haha, I now know why you didn't let Dabao come with us. Even before we get to take a few bites, he would have already finished half of the food on the table."
Thinking that Tian Dabao's favorite food was any poultry drumstick, Su Shuilian could not help but laugh out loud.
Lin Si Yao glanced at her. Did she think that he was a man who would fight for food against a twelve year old boy? He slightly shook his head. He then picked up a large piece of the steamed fish and picked out the bones before he placed it into Su Shuilian's bowl.
"Come on, eat, it's not good when it's cold."
"Ok." Su Shuilian gratefully glanced at him. Fish was one of her favorite dishes, but she always had trouble with the bones, so most of the time she could only give up and not eat it.
Chapter 54: The Unresigned Lu Wan'er
Lu Wan'er had already stood at the door of "Fu Ying Men" for almost an hour. She clearly saw the man who had always been in her mind walk into Wu Qin Restaurant. She had wanted to follow him in, but she did not want to send her personal maidservant, Qing Yu, to inform anyone from the Poets' Society. She did not bring her own purse as men would usually fight to pay for her, so she never needed it. This time, Lu Wan'er could only stand at the doors of Fu Ying Men while staring at the doors of Wu Qin Restaurant, afraid to miss him again.
Lu Wan'er secretly swore to herself that no matter what, she had to get his name and his residence. Since he was unwilling to pursue her, she will pursue him. Never in her life was she so eager to obtain something.
As the Eldest Miss of the Lu House, was considered as one of the few talented beauties in the city, Lu Wan'er was confident she would definitely succeed. After all, many men would wander around her resident's front gate every day just to get a glimpse of her or to get the chance to invite her out.
However, ever since she had met this man on the 7th of the 7th lunar month, or more specifically, ever since she had set her eyes on this cold but skilled man, she started to suffer from lovesickness. So far, she had managed to encounter him twice, although one time he had coldly ignored her and the other, she was not even able to catch up to him to say hello.
However, Lu Wan'er was sure of herself that he would definitely fall for her. This kind of man, either was to never have feelings, or once he does, he will definitely pursue them to his death. She believed that she had the charms to make him fall in love with her, in other words, she had never failed to get a man she had set her eyes on.
---
After paying, Su Shuilian requested the waiter to pack their unfinished food in and left it at the restaurant to be picked up later when they go home. The leftover Roasted Duck and the Rich(ly Stuffed) Chicken was to be brought home for Xiao Chun and Xiao Xiu's dinner. As for Tian Dabao, Su Shuilian ordered some , this was also Wu Qin Resturant's number one 'take out' food. The poultry loving Tian Dabao should enjoy this.
After the two exited Wu Qin Restaurant, they started to head towards the lake near the city plaza to take a walk and digest their food.
"Gongzi!" Lu Wan'er was excited to see Lin Si Yao who had just exited from Wu Qin. She quickly pat her clothing before calling out to him.
"Gongzi, Lu House's Lu Wan'er greets gongzi." Lu Wan'er stopped in front of Lin Si Yao. Pretending to be shy, she had her head down as she softly greeted.
Su Shuilian who was standing by Lin Si Yao finally realized the previous scene when she saw Lu Wan'er outside their window. It seemed that the glamorous and rare beauty Lu Wan'er was actually eagerly waiting for Lin Si Yao.
"Gongzi...." Lu Wan'er looked up, she pouted coquettishly with her watery eyes wandering, as if she had thousands of words to say to him.
Su Shuilian's heart felt somewhat sour. Such a pretty and generous woman, she was sure many men admired her. She then glanced at Lin Si Yao; other than his cold stare, there was no emotion that she could see from his face.
Suddenly, she felt an arm around her waist. With a turn, they walked away from Lu Wan'er.
"A Yao...." Su Shuilian called out to him, unsure of his actions.
And from behind, Lu Wan'er quickly called out, "Gongzi! From the seventh day of the seventh lunar month, this lady... this lady has always reminisced about gongzi.... If you don't mind, please inform this lady of Gongzi's Surname, so Wan'er can visit you one day."
It wasn't that Lu Wan'er did not see Su Shuilian by Lin Si Yao's side, it was because of her arrogance. She just did not put furen* dressed Su Shuilian in her eyes. She was also more unwilling to believe that the seemingly gullible little woman, who was dressed so low-key, was his favored wife.
*(妇人, furen - married women dress differently when compared to a unmarried lady. Their titles change. So from a lady to a madam... well at least that's how I translate it. That's why in the previous chapter, the waiter would call her madam.)
Lin Si Yao looked up at the sun above. Such a shameless woman, to actually ask a male stranger for their surname in broad daylight.
Lin Si Yao felt Su Shuilian's body more stiff than usual. He looked towards her before asking, "What's wrong? (Are you) uncomfortable?" Although the noon sun may be harsh, since it was autumn time, it shouldn't be that bad. "Ah. Are you asking me? I'm fine." Su Shuilian was pulled back from her daze and previous thoughts. She looked down and shook her head. She could not tell him that she was worried that he would like Lu Wan'er.
"What are you saying 'are you asking me'? Who else would I be asking?" Lin Si Yao frown with displeasure. He held her waist as they made their way towards Fan Luo Lake. He turned a blind eye to the shameless Lu Wan'er behind them and paid her no mind.
His woman, in this life he will only have one, and it can only be her: Su Shuilian.
Lu Wan'er watched as the two walked further away from her. She pushed down the jealousy in her eyes. She could not believe it, that man had once again disregarded and ignored her.
Just what was so good about that woman beside him? To make such a cold and aloof man talk in such a gentle and playful manner... That kind of honor should be hers exclusively.
The more Lu Wan'er thought, the more resentful she became. However, the man of her dreams was far away from her. Moreover, she did not know his name nor his address.
The only thing she knew was that he had appeared in her eyes and entered into her heart.
Could it be that she, Lu Wan'er-- Lu House's Eldest Miss, who was pursued by countless men, ended up as a victim of unrequited love? Does she have to give him up as well as live with the feeling of sorrow without showing it on her face?
Nonono. She'll never give up on him.
She had finally found a man that had captivated her. She did not believe that their fate was so shallow. Furthermore, even if she wanted to, she could not let him go.
That man was destined to be hers.
So he refuses to give her his name? Reluctant to give her his residence?
There shouldn't be any problem finding it out using her resources.
What Lu Houses lacked the least was money.
---
Fan Luo's Lake in autumn was beautiful.
Although there was no summer breeze blowing on the lush green leaves, the maple trees matched well with the lake as its blue surface reflected the red of the leaves.
Su Shuilian led Lin Si Yao towards the stone bench that they had sat on once before. She let him sit down before turning herself to face the occasionally rippling lake. Su Shuilian had a shallow smile as she quietly began, "A Yao, that Lu girl seems to really like you." This problem, she had on her mind the whole time. It was not because she did not believe in him, it was more that she did not believe in herself.
Who knew that Su Shuilian,once the eldest miss of a noble family, a genius in embroidery, would experience such times of uncertainty. It may have been because of her younger sister, Shuiyan. Her half sister, Su Shuiyan, has emphasized not just once that weak tempered women rarely find men who truly love them.
As a result, Su Shuilian had speculated multiple times the reason Lin Si Yao had married her was because she had saved his life. Su Shuilian shook her head as she let out a bitter laugh.
"?" Lin Si Yao turned to look at Su Shuilian's back. After a while he said in a low voice while frowning, "Don't talk nonsense."
What Lu girl? What likes him? This woman was letting her imagination run wild again.
He was already annoyed that an irrelevant woman attempted to stick onto him several times. If he hadn't agreed to his woman's request of restraining his martial arts in public, he would have already struck her with his Xuan Feng Palm which could create a shockwave spanning hundreds of meters. However, now he had to deal with the person beside him talking blindly.
Of all people, she, Su Shuilian, actually laughed and ridiculed him. After that meddling woman with the surname of Lu or Luo had said such misunderstanding words, was she not worried about him?
Thinking of this, Lin Si Yao felt somewhat angry. He sat up as his eyes stared straight at the surface of the lake. The sudden drop in atmosphere brought Su Shuilian back from her daze.
Was he angry? Was he mad that she had unbridledly evaluated the words and deeds of Lu Wan'er? After all, that girl was still an unwed maiden. What she (SS) had said earlier was undoubtedly mocking her for being daring. If this was to spread out, then that girl's reputation would be ruined.
"I..." Su Shuilian flatted her lips, "I'm sorry... I only..." She had no idea how to explain herself.
"Why are you saying sorry?" Lin Si Yao faintly asked. He was aware of the self-blaming tone in her vexed voice.
"A Yao, I.... If you had met that Lu girl first, would you still have married me?" She swallowed before she asked the question that had been on her mind. Infact, the question she had wanted to ask even more was what he liked about her. Was it because she saved him?
Lin Si Yao turned his body to face her. When she had asked that question, Su Shuilian was facing down. Her hands were clenched tightly on a handkerchief, twisting it. And she herself was unconscious of it.
Was she worried? Was she afraid that he had feelings for another person?
Lin Si Yao sighed, unsure whether to laugh or be angry. He then reached out to her shoulders to pull her into his embrace.
"You don't know how beautiful you are." Lin Si Yao seemed as if he was talking to himself: "Perhaps, I am not good with words and you had misunderstood me. Shuilian.... You are forever here." He took her hand and guided it to his steady and broad chest; to the place where his heartbeats were most prominent, and refused to let her hand go. "Only you are in here." He solemnly emphasized.
"A Yao... " Su Shuilian could not help but rush into his arms, "I'm sorry, I should have trusted you... I shouldn't have been so narrow minded." She hastily choked out her apologies.
She was fully aware of his pampering towards her and how much he put into their family/house. How could she allow herself to be suspicious of him because of an unrelated stranger's few words? Of course he would get angry.
"I'm very happy..." Lin Si Yao placed his chin on her head as he continued, "that you care so much about me." He used to think that he was just fine being by her side and never requested for her to reciprocate his feelings. However, as time went by, he noticed that he needed her attention and care.
It seems that a true relationship really does require both parties to reciprocate.
Because that meddlesome woman had allowed his woman to show so much care towards himself. Lin Si Yao decided if he ever encounters her again, he will not strike her with his Xuan Feng Palm. Of course, if she becomes too overbearing, then he will consider allowing his disciple to take action.
Chapter 55: Aunt Tian's Worries
Winter was approaching. Lin Si Yao, Tian Dabao, and Xiao Chun climbed Dashi Mountain one last time to hunt for the remaining animals that had yet to hibernate. This time around, Xiao Chun and Dabao's competition yielded three badgers, one wild boar, and a hare with its litter. In addition, Lin Si Yao actually captured a bear who was still trying to fill its stomach in preparation for the harsh winter.
After carrying it back, Lin Si Yao spent two whole days by the riverside skinning the fur from the bear. Afterwards, the skinned bear was split into quarters. Lao House and Tian House got a piece of hind leg and paw. The remaining two pieces were then soaked in water for two hours before it was marinated in a salt and wine mixture and boiled with scallions and bay leaves. One of the pieces was to be brined in a jar and before being salted, air dried, and made into cured meat. As for the other piece, after it was fully covered in salt and spice, the meat was placed on a grill to be barbecued. The two wolf pups never had barbequed meat before, so this was their chance to enjoy it.
As for the other quarter, Lin Si Yao had brought them to Fan Luo City while allowing Tian Dabao to tag along. Ever since the discovery of the man-eating beast in Dashi Mountain, it became rare for wild animals to be sold in the market. Not to mention, the animals they brought were still alive! So the three badgers and the wild boar were sold at a high price of eight taels. Lin Si Yao gave Tian Dabao five taels as those animals were hunted by him and Xiao Chun. As for the family of hare, Lin Si Yao allowed Tian Dabao to bring them home to raise.
Su Shuilian was already busy caring for the hare in her house. Of the previously caught two rabbits, one had already given birth to a litter of six; two males and four females. The pheasants had also given birth. Two clutches from two separate mothers, one nest had five, while the other nest had seven. As for the female goat that was gifted to them from the village head, the village head borrowed it to mate it with his male goat.. It later gave birth to four baby goats, one of which was gifted to Lin Si Yao and Su Shuilian. And so, the southern part of the courtyard was prosperous with the new additions. Lin Si Yao had even made a separate section in the garden for the carrots to feed the rabbits. As for the grass and seeds to feed the chicks and goats, it was all gathered from the foot of Xiufeng when Lin Si Yao, Tian Dabao, and the wolves would come back from their morning training.
Lao House and Tian House never imagined that they could enjoy bear meat during this season. Furthermore, they never thought that they could have the rare and nutritious bear paw. They were very happy, but they were also worried for Lin Si Yao and Tian Dabao's safety. They even went to Su Shuilian to thank her and ask her to persuade Lin Si Yao not to enter the dangerous Dashi Mountain.
"Girl, I already spoke with Aunt Lao. We agreed not to let anyone know that we were able to eat bear meat. However, please advise your Lin Si Yao not to enter Dashi Mountain again. Not only are there ferocious bears in there, there are tigers, and also wolves! Anyways, just don't go to such a dangerous place... You may not know this, but in a neighboring town there used to be countless hunters. Not anymore. Once they entered the forest of Dashi Mountain, they never came back..."
Aunt Tian tried her hardest to persuade Su Shuilian. Although she had sent the warning towards Lin Si Yao, Aunt Tian was more worried for her son, Dabao.
In just three months of training with Lin Si Yao, Tian Dabao's body had gotten noticeably stronger. Usually during the winter, Tian Dabao would get sick with a fever. This year, not only was he not sick, Tian Dabao was fine walking out with only two layers of clothing.
The Tian House had found these changes really surprising. Originally they hoped that after Tian Dabao followed Lin Si Yao, he wouldn't randomly disappear and wander. At the same time, it was to also learn some self defense so he would no longer be bullied by his younger peers. Who knew that in just three months, Tian Dabao would have enough strength to even beat his father. Aunt Tian had only found out today that he would follow Lin Si Yao in and out of Dashi Mountain. He had even earned five taels and a litter of rabbits. For a family of six, this amount was enough to last them a whole year. However, knowing that the hare and money came from Dabao risking his life to enter the dangerous forest, Aunt Tian found it hard to swallow. Even Tian Dafu was not able to eat and sleep well for the past couple of days in fear of losing Tian Family's only son.
Yes, he may be mentally impaired, but he was still alive and well. But... what if... aiya! What am I thinking! Aunt Tian mentally reprimanded herself for thinking of such things. After snapping out of her thoughts, she continued her best to persuade the quiet Su Shuilian.
"Yeah, girl, although the bear meat was delicious, it's not worth the risks. We all know that Lin Si Yao is very skilled, but just in case something happens..." Aunt Lao also added, trying to make their argument sound more persuasive.
"Nm, aunties, rest assured, A Yao is aware of what is acceptable. When he returns, I'll let him know." Su Shuilian smiled as she nodded; she was not worried, she had already cautioned him the past few times as well. He even smiled and assured her that there was no problem. He had said that he and Dabao never entered deep into Dashi Mountain and only stayed near the woods bordering the mountain to train. Dabao would sometimes follow the wolf puppies as they chased after the wild animals in the area. Lin Si Yao kept watch as he stood on the tip of his toes on a branch of the cloud-high bamboo while consolidating his [Mystic Nethereal - Wind Cloud Enchantment] that had gone through grand completion. If he were to detect any ferocious beast within a hundred meter perimeter, he would immediately leave the area with Dabao and the wolves. He would never gamble with his life since he already has his own lovely wife and cozy house.
"So do not worry. A Yao would not let anything happen to Dabao." Su Shuilian repeatedly assured. Lin Si Yao would never joke around with Dabao's safety as he wouldn't do so with his own safety. The people who had been taken under his wings can absolutely have faith in his protection.
"Girl, Tian House has had only one son every generation for three generations. I had hurt my body after I gave birth to Tian Dabao, so I am unable to conceive again. That is why I am so anxious for Dabao...." Aunt Tian spoke in a desperate manner. It wasn't that she did not trust Lin Si Yao, however, Dabao was their only son, and she didn't want to take any chances.
If she knew that Dabao would accompany Lin Si Yao into Dashi Mountain, she would have never allowed Dabao to become Lin Si Yao's disciple even if her life depended on it. However, when she had casually mentioned this to Dabao, he had protested with a hunger strike. This kind of display, it was hard to believe he had a nine year old's mentality...
Aunt Tian had wondered whether he had recovered from his mental stunt, but it was not the right moment to think about that. She still had to convince Lin Si Yao not to bring her son to any dangerous places.
"Ok. I will relay the message to him." Su Shuilian nodded her head. Since Aunt Tian had spoken, she will not make it difficult for her. She herself (SS) did not believe that Tian Dabao was in any danger. He (LSY) had only wanted Dabao to quickly learn those powerful sword moves.
----
"A Yao... Aunt Tian and Aunt Lao came earlier." Su Shuilian handed Lin Si Yao, who had just returned, some warm tea and wrung a towel for him to wipe his face with.
These few days were perfect for sowing the winter millets. Therefore, other than bringing Tian Dabao and the wolf puppies out in the morning, for the rest of the time Lin Si Yao had been in the fields. Dabao was given a five day break. And while Lin Si Yao was out, Su Shuilian was accompanied by the wolves. It was closer to say she was being guarded by them as Lin Si Yao would worry for her safety.
Lin Si Yao raised his eyebrow when he heard what she had said before taking the towel from her hands and wiping his somewhat sweaty face.
"Aunt Tian said... Dashi is too dangerous...." Su Shuilian cautiously opened her mouth and continued. She did not want to upset Lin Si Yao. She clearly could see his genuine care for Dabao. Although he had never shown it- although he had been very strict with Dabao- she knew how much Lin Si Yao was dedicated to teaching Tian Dabao.
"She wants me to stop bringing him there." Lin Si Yao finished her sentence.
"You... You're not mad?" Su Shuilian looked up at his face and asked.
"Why should I be angry?" Lin Si Yao did not know whether to laugh or cry.
"Um... You were only doing this with good intention." Su Shuilian stammered.
"No worries. He only needed to strengthen up. Now there's no need to go there." Lin Si Yao finished the large cup of wild raspberry tea before he answered with the corner of his lips rising.
"What do you want to eat for lunch?" Lin Si Yao said and walked to the food storage cabinet, looking for possible ingredients.
"Oh, I had already made us*." Su Shuilian said as she happily trotted over to the stove and took the lid off from a large pot. Inside that large pot was a generous amount of fragrant Shijin Rice.
(什锦饭, Shijin rice - almost like fried rice, but the meats and vegetables are cooked with the rice, instead of adding the condiments after the rice is done. Google says its like Jambalaya.)
"Didn't we agree to make the food after I return?" Lin Si Yao furrowed his brows, took her hands, and pulled her close. He inspected both hands for any cuts.
"You were working so hard, how could I just stay home and do nothing?" Su Shuilian took a rice scooper and filled a large bowl of rice for Lin Si Yao and then a smaller bowl for herself.
"You should eat more." Lin Si Yao took the rice scooper from her and filled her bowl some more before handing it back to her.
She looked small and delicate; it was comfortable holding her in his arms. The areas that should be full have never slimmed. Even so, he worried for her; when the harsh winter comes, the strong winds blowing will knock her onto the ground.
If Su Shuilian had known Lin Si Yao's inner thoughts, she would have strongly refuted. Other than that time of the month, she never felt any discomfort since she had left the forest.