Chapter 111: Wait!
Perhaps, he could take Shuilian and the twins out of here, moving to the fiery land by the sea. But what about her parents and brother?
"I understand. The kids and I will wait for your safe return. Of course, it would be great if you come home before the New Year." Su Shuilian smiled, comforting him. In return, she got a deep, lingering kiss from Lin Si Yao.
"I wrote a letter to your brother in imperial city. About you and the kids, Situ Yun is the most proficient in terms of skills. He'll stay and protect you day and night. And, his junior and senior brothers will take turns to protect you guys. I will come home soon. Shuilian, I'm sorry! I said I would protect you and I would never go anywhere far, but now..."
"A Yao, you don't need to talk anymore! It's not something you can decide. It's about the country's security. It's about people in our country. Even if it has only a one percent chance, we still have to prepare beforehand." Su Shuilian covered Lin Si Yao's lips, trying to stop him from blaming himself.
"You and Si Chong must be careful. No matter what happens, just remember that me and the kids are here, waiting for you."
"Don't worry! The purpose of my trip is to bring Si Luo home. I promise you I won't act rashly." Lin Si Yao nodded, promising. How could he not know what she was implying? Since they met in Mount Da Shi, they had never parted throughout the past two years.
"Mhn, it's good that you understand. This, I sewed this into an inner pocket in your bag." Su Shuilian pointed at the empty, purple gourd on the table. It had around one and a half spoon of Jade Heart Immortal Marrow. She had poured them all into a small bottle and placed it in his bag. "This is for in case anything unexpected happens."
"Shuilian..." Lin Si Yao hugged her tightly, calling her name, his voice low and husky. It was a while before he let her go, looking at the twins who were sleeping peacefully in their cribs. Lin Si Yao picked up the bag, heading out. He saw Si Chong waiting for him outside. They seized the chance when it was still dark to leave Fan Hua Town, heading to the West Corridor.
Su Shuilian leaned against the column in front of the house, silently watching the two leaving until their vigorous figures disappeared from her sight.
"My Shifu and Uncle will be alright." It was unclear when Situ Yun had arrived behind her, but he softly added a single sentence.
"Mhn, they'll be alright," Su Shuilian nodded, taking her eyes off the mountain far away. She returned to the room. A Yao wasn't home, but she still needed to work and rest properly.
She wouldn't follow the women in folktales who only stood and waited for the rest of their lives, until they turned into a stone statue.
She had to take care of Xiao-er and Long-er, also all the many meticulous and miscellaneous chores at home. In short, she hoped that when A Yao came home, she would be able to give him back his warm, happy family as it always was.
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Si Chong's twenty-four disciples and Situ Yun had always protected the twins. It turned out that all twenty-five aldolestences, all roughly fourteen years old, could have so much fun with Lin Xiao and Lin Long, who weren't even two-months old.
Actually, they could only play with the kids when they were awake. They took turns to guard (play with) the babies and guard Guangci House. After years of cooperation, they'd trained and formed good habits for themselves even when their Shifu wasn't here.
"Tomorrow would be New Year's Eve." Su Shuilian leaned against the window frame. She mumbled while watching the clear crescent moon hanging in the sky.
"Right. This servant has prepared everything. Don't worry, my Lady." Liang-momo brought Su Shuilian a pot of hot tea since she noticed that Shuilian wasn't asleep. Although their Guye wasn't home, they wouldn't neglect their preparation for the New Year. After working for the Prince's Mansion for so many years, it would be belittling of Liang-momo if she couldn't handle it.
"I wonder if A Yao could return on time." It was the second Lunar New Year's celebration since they'd known each other. She didn't want to celebrate it without him.
"Guye has excellent martial skills; he'll return safe and sound. My Lady, you don't need to worry too much." Inwardly, Liang-momo wasn't sure that their Guye would come home before the New Year's Eve. Afterall, it was at least four hundred kilometers from here to the West Corridor. On carriage, it would take three or four days to get there and return, but that did not include the time needed to take care of important business. However, Liang-momo believed in Guye's extraordinary martial arts, so she hoped that he would return on time.
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"Where is your icy-cold husband? He's not home?" Early on the last day of the year, Jiang Ying Yun rode her luxurious carriage of Yue Yun Embroidery House, bringing the New Year's gifts. She asked curiously as she didn't see Lin Si Yao who had always stayed behind or beside Su Shuilian.
"Mhm, he had something to take care of, so he is not home at the moment." Su Shuilian answered as she fed Lin Long.
"It's almost the New Year. What's more important? Ha!... Did he go to imperial city to deliver the New Year's gifts to his in-laws?" Jiang Ying Yun couldn't help but tease.
Su Shuilian paused before realizing what she had just heard. Oh right, it is common sense to send New Year's gifts to her parents. It was just because Wangye Jing and Wangfei Jing had stayed in her house for so long, she had forgotten and just treated them as their distinguished guests. There was no need to mention A Yao. Since he was small, he had gotten used to living alone. Murdering people was his job. His knowledge in perfunctory rituals were minimal.
"Young Lady, when our Elder Wangfei left, she told us that this place is too far away from the imperial city. You and Guye don't need to burden your mind with these things. You just need to take care of our Young Master and Young Lady." Liang-momo intervened when she noticed Su Shuilian's difficult expression.
"Right. Moreover, the imperial city is in chaos now. You'd better not go there." Jiang Ying Yun saw Liang-momo come with a dish of aromatic snacks and had a sudden urge to eat. Picking up a , she took a quick bite before speaking.
"The imperial city... is in chaos? How did you know that?" When Su Shuilian heard that, she remembered what A Yao had told her before he left. She hurried to ask.
"Every week, our embroidery house will send a troop of carriages to the imperial city. How could I not know that?" Jiang Ying Yun recognized the worry in her voice. She thought that the other was scared for Wangye Jing and Wangfei Jing in the imperial city. She waved her hand, comforting her. "Don't worry. I heard that some criminals came from the North. They should be captured by now. Your parents are in the Prince's Mansion. They are fine."
"Hopefully so." Su Shuilian nodded, feeling a little embarrassed. In fact, she only missed A Yao. She had almost forgotten that now she had parents and a brother to think about.
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"Any news?" Liang Xuan Jing entered the study room. In a serious tone, he asked his son, who was frowning while he sat in front of his desk.
"Father," When Liang En Zai saw Liang Xuan Jing, he relaxed. Rubbing the high, straight bridge of his nose, he slightly shook his head. "Nothing. According to the intelligence from the North border, Blood Union Empire has sent twelve Blood Knights to Da Hui Empire. However, we still have no clue where they are."
"Really?" Liang Xuan Jing was startled. The twelve Blood Knights can be considered the strongest weapon of the Blood Union Empire. I heard that they have never failed any missions."
"Yes. It's the intelligence we received. Moreover, Father, Blood Cult also already started to take action." Liang En Zai pushed a sheet of paper to Liang Xuan Jing. It was the news Lin Si Yao had asked Guangci House to deliver to them: 'Two monsters of West Corridor, Blood Cult.' If Lin Si Yao was right, then Blood Cult was the chess piece the Blood Union Empire had embedded in the Da Hui Empire.
"Hmm..." Liang Xuan Jing furrowed his brows. He stood up and walked out of the study room. "I'm going to the palace now. Da Hui had only recuperated for one hundred years. It was really hard to keep our country in peace, we will never let war happen again."
"Father, what if the emperor doesn't believe us..."
"He must believe us. If he doesn't, I will beat him until he does." Liang Xuan Jing didn't turn his head back as he made his way to the outer gates of the mansion courtyard. While striding, he shouted, "Quick, prepare a carriage for this Wangye!"
Liang En Zai looked at Liang Xuan Jing rushing as if he was flying. He smiled, shaking his head. He returned to his desk, scribbling a letter. He folded it neatly then put it in an envelope sealed with a red seal. Then, he called the hidden guard, "Quick, deliver this to Guangci House."
After the hidden guard disappeared, Liang En Zai left the study room, asking people to prepare a carriage for him. And made haste to Prince Xiang's Mansion.
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In the octagonal pavilion inside Xiang Prince's Mansion, Laing En Zai was talking with his best friend, who was also his childhood partner in crime.
"What's your plan?" Wangye Xiang leaned against a column. He looked as if he was admiring the apricot blossom by the roof of the pavilion, but his eyes were filled with worry.
"In Blood Union's eyes, Da Hui is a block of fat meat." Liang En Zai raised his cup. Lowing his lids as he gazed into the clear wine, he faintly analyzed. "
"So?"
"But they didn't think that meat could become a rigid bone." Liang En Zai spun the cup in his hand. His extremely handsome face looked even more elegant on a clear and cold winter day.
"Twelve Blood Knights..." Wangye Xiang lowered his voice, muttering. He turned to look at Liang En Zai. "If this is true, then we should test it!" They'd been preparing for so many years just to see this fish bite their bait, hadn't they?
"Xia'er, do you still remember Feng Yao Court?" Liang En Zai suddenly changed the topic.
"Of course, I do. It's the infamous organization of killers. Several years ago, we met some of their people in Feng Shui City." Lou Xia Er nodded. However, in the recent two years, Feng Yao Court has been very quiet. Did they collapse?
"Feng Yao Court has a new master. They change their style, too. And, about their top assassin..." Liang En Zai raised his cup to his lips, covering the curve made by his mouth. Who could ever imagine that the God of Slaughter would become his brother-in-law? It was En Xu's fortune, right? It had also dissolved the hostility he had against Lin Si Yao.
"I heard he's dead." Lou Xia Er felt a little regretful, sighing.
"Perhaps not," Liang En Zai shook his head. "Oh right, later on, when you want to pass new, use Guangci House. It's more secure."
"What? It's yours?" Lou Xia Er raised his brows. He had never heard about this.
"No, but it's absolutely safe." They were from the same side. If his brother-in-law suggested that in his letter, he would choose to temporarily believe him.
Moreover, if the assumption were true that the Blood Union Empire was planning to conquer Da Hui, the transmission of messages would play a key part. If any news were to be leaked, that could affect the entire outcome.
"I will take care of the other things. You just need to keep an eye on the Prime Minister's Mansion." Liang En Zai finished his wine in one gulp. Then, he got up and made his way out.
"You should also assign people to the Minister's Mansion. I believe that the Minister might also have a hand in this play. Have you noticed how he had always butted heads with Prince Jing's Mansion, wishing for malicious outcomes?"
"Don't worry! Of course, I will keep an eye on him." Liang En Zai didn't turn his head back, waving his hand. How could he miss the Minister's Mansion! Perhaps, the Blood Union Empire's act this time is all due to that damn old man!
It's just, all of this, needs patience...
Chapter 112: The Construction Begins
As Su Shuilian predicted, Lin Si Yao didn't come home before Lunar New Year's Eve.
However, with no news from him even till the fifteenth of the first lunar month, Su Shuilian couldn't wait anymore.
"You know how to contact your Shifu, right?" Helpless, Su Shuilian turned to ask Situ Yun, who was playing with the twins.
She believed Situ Yun knew because Guangci House's informants were located all over the empire.
Situ Yun hesitated for a while before talking, "It's true that we got the news five days ago. Uncle Si Luo got hurt so it's not convenient." Of course, the other reason was that his Uncle Si Ling is still occupied with the disciples of the Blood Cult. Li Si Yao didn't dare to go home as he was afraid that the Blood Cult's disciples would hear wind and come to harm his family.
Thus, before Su Shuilian asked him, he would pretend to know nothing. It would be less harmful not to tell the truth than telling lies, right?
Su Shuilian nodded. As long as she was still receiving news, it was good. After Su Shuilian was informed that Si Luo was the one who got wounded, half of her worries were gone.
Was she too selfish? Su Shuilian held Lin Xiao's chubby hand, reflecting on herself.
"My Lady, the workers for the private mansion's construction are here. This servant let them wait in the Bamboo Garden's living room." Liang-momo came to the room and reported.
Right, the private mansion's construction would be started after the first full moon of the New Year. With her mind occupied with A Yao, she wasn't in the mood to remember the other things.
Su Shuilian stood up and adjusted her clothes. Then, she lifted her head, and replied to Liang-momo, "I'll be heading there now, you stay here. When Chun Lan comes back, please ask her to go to the living room."
Chun Lan and Guard Xiao got married on the twelfth day of lunar January. Early this year, Chun Lan's parents had sent a letter to them, saying that Chun Lan wasn't young anymore, and they had saved some money to redeem her(her servitude contract) so she could come back home and get married.
Unexpectedly, according to Guangci House's intelligence, which they reported to Situ Yun, Chun Lan's brother got into a fight with the Landlord's son. He had almost destroyed the other's 'lifeline'. Thus, let alone the fact that they had to spend the two silvers they had saved for years to compensate for the other, the Landlord had reported the case to an Officer. They had to negotiate and beg a lot. Eventually, the Landlord agreed to let this go with the condition that Chun Lan must become his concubine. So because of that, they agreed to pay and redeem Chun Lan.
Chun Lan remembered that Landlord. That man was more than forty years old with a bald head and a big belly. He had already had six or seven concubines. The son he had with his first wife was his treasure. If his son quarreled with his concubine, his concubine would encounter her bad fortune. His son was, for sure, spoiled rotten.
However, when Chun Lan came to work as a maid in the Prince's Mansion, she didn't sign a life-time contract. If her family wanted to redeem her, unless Chun Lan herself didn't agree, no one in the mansion could stop them.
That's why Chun Lan had cried that night. The next day, she came to say goodbye to Su Shuilian with a pair of red eyes. She didn't expect that Su Shuilian's reply would change her entire future.
"You can choose not to go." Su Shuilian suggested this seriously. "If you don't want to go home, then you do not have to. I will take care of your brother's matter."
"My Lady..." Chun Lan choked. Of course, she didn't want to go back. She liked Xiao Heng. But, right now, her family was in trouble. She must help them although it wasn't any different from jumping into a pit of fire.
"Think about it. It sounds good being a concubine of a Landlord, but you have to compete against others to claim your husband. Or, you can be with someone else for the rest of your life. Just the two of you." Su Shuilian lifted her cup of tea, her thoughts drifting. She recalled her biological mother in her other life, and A Yao, who was tens of thousands of miles away from her now.
"I don't want to go home. But..." Chun Lan looked down and whispered her true desire.
"Ok. Just stay here. Don't worry. I will help you take care of the other things." That was just a Landlord in a small town. The name of Prince Jing's House should suffice!
So she wrote a letter and had Guangci House deliver it to her big brother – Liang En Zai – in the imperial city. This was the first time that his younger sister had requested anything from him. No matter what kind of brother he was, he did not want to disappoint her. Especially since she had such a capable husband!
And so, four days later, a reply was received from the imperial city. The content of the letter said that not only was the problem solved, but Liang En Zai also gave her parents thirty silver so they could buy their own land. No longer do they need to rent the Landlord's paddy fields.
Soon after, Su Shuilian went ahead and had Chun Lan marry Xiao Heng. She sent someone to notify Chun Lan's parents of this information, one, to reassure them, and two, to inhibit any further ideas plotting against Chun Lan's future. A daughter was to be loved, not to be someone else's ransom.
Chun Lan and Xiao Heng's wedding room was arranged in the Gu family's house, who had already moved out. It was near this big house, neighboring Lao House. It was a small house in about one acre of land with three rooms and two penthouses. Even if they had more members of the family, there would be enough room for all of them. The previous tenants also had three acres of paddy fields, which was now collected and added to the community fields. Later, all land and fields that were not owned by the tenants of Fan Hua Town, would be cultivated by hired people. After harvesting, the workers would receive their payment according to the quality and quantity, as well as a share of the harvest.
Su Shuilian reminded Chun Lan and Xiao Heng that they did not need to work for the three days after their wedding. She remembered that A Yao was badly irritated because of Aunt Lao and Xi Cui during their three-day 'honeymoon'.
By the fifteenth, Xiao Heng and Chun Lan were officially titled the Manager and the Momo. Liang-momo happily handed over her title and responsibility.
Unlike Liang-momo, Chun Lan was a married woman now, so she took on her husband's surname. Thus, from now on, Chun Lan, now known as Xiao-momo, would manage all things related to personnel in-house.
And, Xiao Heng wasn't the Chief Guard anymore. He was now Manager Xiao, supervisor of everything big or small in the house. Actually, their house didn't have any guards, since the protectors of the mansion were the experts dispatched from Guangci House.
The seven guards sent to Guangci House to be trained were now Guangci House's experts. Why these seven? Because this place was their new home. Even if they came just to send a piece of news and drink a cup of tea, their hearts already felt warm.
Chun Lan's original tasks were divided, with Liang-momo taking on the easier jobs, and Bai He in charge of serving Su Shuilian with her daily activities. And, a maid, named Xue Qin, was assigned to feed the twins.
It seemed Su Shuilian had returned to the life where she had maids accompanying her all day long in the Su Family. Su Shuilian sighed quietly, strolling around Bamboo Garden.
To avoid bothering the twins, the Bamboo Garden was now the place to host and handle people and things that weren't close to the family.
The workers planning the layout of the private mansion were recruited by Liang En Zai from the imperial city. They would take care of planning, constructing, and decorating afterward.
So, at the least, they had to stay here for half a year. Su Shuilian decided to let them stay in the Wangs' house since the others had already moved out.
Wang's house was much bigger than the Gu's House. It was two acres large and was situated in a convenient location, right by the west side of the central lake in Fan Hua Town. The courtyard had two rows of rooms, three rooms in each row. And, it even had a vegetable garden in front and behind the house.
After the Wangs had moved out, Liang-momo took their maids and servants there to clean and purchase more necessary furniture, including 3 more beds and 4 more chairs.
Thus, the six main rooms had become single rooms. The kitchen was just a decoration to the house.
The architects and carpenters, and for the future laborers as well, were arranged to have meals in Orchid Garden until Su Shuilian and Lin Si Yao's old house, which Feng Qing Ya had destroyed, was renovated.
They decided to renovate the old house first into a big house in the style of an ancestral hall. The design was ready. Su Shuilian had worked on it for several days recently as a distraction from her worries. The designs were rolled up in her hand and brought to the Bamboo Garden so the workers could take some reference.
In her design, the central room among the three rooms would be as big as half of the former one. And, they would build a larger kitchen.
The first two rooms in the East will receive more natural light. One of them would be used as the classroom, which could host around ten people. The room in the center would be divided into two smaller rooms. The teacher would use the room in the south to rest. This room had a desk, a chair, and two bookshelves the students could come to borrow books to read.
The room facing the North was the student activities room. During rainy days or lunchtime breaks, they could play chess, play musical instruments, or compose poetry there...
The large kitchen would be built in the West. It had a three-tier cook stove and an in-built simmering stove; a cabinet for bowls and dishes, another one to store tools and items, and a large shelf.
The room next to the kitchen was an eating hall. When completed, this place would provide free meals to the laborers of the house and the students.
"Fourth Lady, this design, I'm afraid it could bother you. The kitchen will always have an oily and smoky smell. If you place it in the West wing, the smoke would be blown to this area." Liang Yu An, one of the construction masters, shook his head when he reviewed Su Shuilian's drawing.
Of course, Su Shuilian had considered this matter. However, the East wing had more light, so it was most suitable for the students to study there.
"How about this, we move the kitchen and the canteen over there. So, it would be separated and it's not too far away from the study room." Another master called Ding Shi pondered, then pointed at the wasteland in the East of the old house. "If you worry that it isn't convenient for the kids to go to school during rainy days, you can build a flowery corridor connecting the classroom there."
"Good idea. We can place some benches along the corridor. When they have free time, they can sit there and relax. With this, it would be less likely that anyone would come to the West wing to play with and disturb the Fourth Lady's family." Liang Yu An agreed, adding more details.
Su Shuilian's eyes brightened. It was a great suggestion.
"At that time, we will plant pines, bamboo, and cherry-apples. And, we will build a koi pond. It will be absolutely beautiful." The other workers nodded in agreement.
"Okay, we will do as you've suggested. As long as we have a classroom, a kitchen, and a canteen." Su Shuilian nodded smilingly. Indeed, they were professionals. In just a few words, they were able to solve the problem that had given her headaches for several days.
However, she didn't expect that these planners wanted to destroy the current arrangement of Fan Hua Town to do their new layout! She had assumed that they would come to build a private mansion for Prince Jing and Princess Jing, and conveniently build some houses for her, too.
But now, it seemed they wanted to build a large-scale construction. She wondered how much the cost would be and how long it would take for such a massive project.
"Fourth Lady, we need to check around so we need someone familiar with the houses and land in this town to show us around. Perhaps..." Liang Yu An scratched his head. He didn't expect that the Fourth Lady of Prince Jing's mansion would arrive unaccompanied by a maid or servant.
"My Lady, I'll go with them!" Chun Lan, who had just arrived, timely replied.
Su Shuilian nodded, "Xiao-momo is the momo who will be in charge of the private mansion. If you have any questions, just ask her."
Chapter 113: Yearning Home
NSFW warning~
"Good children! Do you also miss your daddy?" Su Shuilian quietly sighed as she held Lin Xiao, whose looks took after Lin Si Yao, in her arm as she pushed the cradle where Lin Long was playing with her own hands.
A Yao had left home for a month, but he had yet to come home.
Every time she asked Situ Yun, she would receive the same answer: Si Luo's wounds hadn't recovered yet. He couldn't move much.
After several times, she knew that Situ Yun wanted to hide something from her. However, she also didn't want to know the real reason. She only kept praying every day. He would be alright, she told herself.
He hadn't taught the kids swordsmanship and qing-gong. They hadn't traveled around Da Hui Empire. He hadn't known how much she loved him. How could he let something happen to him!?
"My Lady, it is bedtime for Young Lady and Young Master! This servant will take them to the West wing to feed them first. My Lady should shower then rest." Liang-momo adjusted the lamp, making its radiate dim light. She scooped up Lin Long in the cradle and handed her to Bai He so she would take the baby and feed her first. Then, she went to adjust the bedsheet before receiving Lin Xiao from Su Shuilian.
"I will breastfeed the kids at night. You can tell the wet-nurse to rest and come back here early in the morning." Su Shuilian carefully instructed. She couldn't sleep well at night anyways, it wasn't a problem to feed the kids then. The wet-nurse would take her shift in the morning.
"My Lady, your body will collapse, you cannot continue like this!" Liang-momo didn't agree. She was the Fourth Lady of Prince Jing's Mansion! To have to wake up in the middle of the night to feed her babies... If the Elder Wangfei knew that, they would be skinned alive.
"I know my own condition. If I get tired, I will tell you." Su Shuilian smiled. She needed something to occupy herself. That's how she kept herself from becoming more anxious.
"Sigh, it's good that My Lady understands. This servant is just afraid that My Lady will become exhausted." Liang-momo sighed reluctantly. She brought Lin Xiao to the West wing to feed him and informed the wet-nurse of Su Shuilian's orders.
Su Shuilian washed herself and changed into her nightgown. Liang-momo and Bai He had taken the twins to the East wing to sleep. At this moment, Lin Xiao was fast asleep. Lin Long was yawning. She was sleepy. They put the kids into their cribs and moved the cribs near the bed so Su Shuilian could feed them at night.
After Su Shuilian had moved to the bedroom in the East wing, at night time, the twins were always fed here. Before they were one-month old, a bowl with red coal was kept in this room, and the wet-nurse slept on the soft bed outside. As soon as she heard the kids' voices, she would get in and feed them. Afterward, she would exit the bedroom.
And now, the twins are almost two-month old. They didn't need to be breastfed as often during the night. Normally, before bed, they would eat till full. Then near the end of hài-shí (9-11pm) they would want to eat once more. Early in the morning, by yín-shí (3-5 am), they would need their milk again. Fortunately, the kids seem to naturally become hungry at a regular schedule. It helped Su Shuilian and the wet-nurse a lot.
After Lin Long finally slept, Su Shuilian blew the lamp. She couldn't sleep with the light on. However, after the light went out, through her window, with the crescent moon hanging in the sky, the yearning for her husband's return, that she had to suppress to the bottom of her heart during the day, began to surge like a rising tide.
Su Shuilian quietly leaned against the headboard. After an unknown amount of time, when her eyes felt drowsy, she suddenly felt the mattress next to her pressed down. A brush of cold air at night came. Su Shuilian suddenly sobered up. She was about to call Bai He, who was sleeping in the adjacent room outside.
"It's me." The low, masculine, but familiar voice dismissed her fear instantly. Su Shuilian turned around, burying herself into the cold embrace, which had traveled through chilling night fog and mist. "You are home!"
"Yeah, I'm home." Lin Si Yao took a deep breath. The aroma lingering at his nose melted his heart that had been frosted for so many days.
"It's good that you're home. Did you have dinner?" Su Shuilian tried to suppress her emotions. She reached to him, rubbing his entire body as if she wanted to find something.
"I'm not hungry. Stop searching, I'm not hurt." Lin Si Yao smiled and stopped her from groping around. He pulled Su Shuilian's arms and wrapped them around his waist.
"I heard from Yun-er that Si Luo was wounded badly, which delayed your return. Is he okay now?"
"At least, he's still alive." It was a miracle that he alone had survived the siege of Twenty Blood Knights from Blood Cult. Of course, that spoonful of Jade Heart Immortal Marrow that had played a part as well. Otherwise, even if Si Luo had hung on his last breath, he would not have lived past six months.
"And you? Are you really okay?" Listening to Lin Si Yao's indifferent tone to such shocking news, Su Shuilian couldn't help but search around his body again. She was afraid that he had concealed something from her.
"I'm okay." Although he got some small cuts, after one month of resting, he was alright. He did not want to see her crying because of his wounds again. He hadn't forgotten her face with tears lingering in her eyes when she saw the scars on his body.
"Are you really? You wouldn't lie to me, would you? If you are injured, do not conceal it from me." Su Shuilian anxiously checked him as she spoke.
"Don't worry. I'm speaking the truth." Lin Si Yao chuckled. He stooped and kissed her gently, trying to divert her attention.
"Everything at home has been fine, right?" She and the kid's safety were his priority.
"Everything is fine. The contructioned for the private mansion has been started for half a month. The desolated area to the West of us had been fenced off. The main building of the private mansion will be built there. Moreover, to make it more convenient, the workers planned to construct roads connecting to the city, the temple, and the local village road."
Lin Si Yao quietly listened to the petite lady in his chest talking unceasingly. His tense nerves finally relaxed.
"You're not leaving again, are you?" Su Shuilian finished telling him all the stories that happened during the month when he wasn't home. Eventually, she asked him the matter she'd concerned the most.
"I don't think so. But your brother expressed that he needed to see me in the imperial city.." They leaned against each other's warm embrace. Lin Si Yao quickly took off his clothes, leaving only his underpants. He got under the duvet, which was soft and warm with her presence. He embraced the soft and aromatic woman, pulling her into his chest as if he wanted to become one with her.
"My big brother? Why?" Su Shuilian shyly touched his naked body, feeling his rough skin.
"I think it must be something related to the Blood Union's invasion of Da Hui," Lin Si Yao explained briefly.
What he didn't mention was that he had cooperated with Liang En Zai's soldiers this time to kill twelve Blood Knights from Blood Union, the enemies that the Da Hui's royals were always afraid of. Da Hui's Emperor wanted to award and praise him personally.
He didn't want to go. However, Liang En Zai told him that if he denied the Emperor's rewards, his family would be implicated.
Damn! If Liang En Zai weren't talkative and revealed him, how could Da Hui's Emperor know about him? Obviously, he was an assassin. How could he raise the interest of the royal family?
He knew what Liang En Zai was scheming. If he didn't shove him out to admit the merit of eliminating the sharpest weapon of Blood Union – the twelve Blood Knights, Da Hui's Emperor would doubt Liang En Zai.
How could a 'mesley' Wangye possess such military power and excellent soldiers? Then, if Liang En Zai wanted to force the emperor to abdicate, then it would be done with just a wave of his hand. How could the royal family be his equal opponent?
And so, the Liang family, Prince Jing's Mansion would be seen as a threat (by the royal family). In a serious case, their family's power and army would be deprived...
Thus, Su Shuilian and her family would be in danger. Naturally, he knew such consequences.
However, if Liang En Zai and his father got the plan to force the emperor to abdicate, Liang En Zai wouldn't have killed the twelve Blood Knights right when they had just sneaked into Da Hui Empire. He could have used those twelve Blood Knights to threaten Da Hui's royal family and force the emperor to listen to his order.
Therefore, Liangs were concluded to not have any scheme to the royal family. Thus, throwing the merit of killing the twelve Blood Knights on Lin Si Yao would further reduce Da Hui's Emperor's doubt on the Liangs.
But now, Lin Si Yao began to doubt Elder Wangye Jing's purpose when they wanted to build such a big private mansion here. Anyway, he hoped everything was just his own guessing.
Elder Wangye Jing looked frank and cordial. He wouldn't push his only biological daughter, whom he had been apart for so many years, to the public just to save his own life, and force him to cooperate.
As for Liang En Zai, It was hard to tell... Looking at his innocent face and peach blossom like eyes, Lin Si Yao knew deep down Liang En Zai was not as simple as he appears to be.
Damn! Liang En Zai, it's best if you don't ever use Shuilian as leverage. Otherwise, I will not hesitate to sacrifice your life for the ancestors!
"Um, then... you have to go?" Su Shuilian leaned against his chest, her eyes drowsy.
"Talk later! It's late, you should sleep!" Lin Si Yao stooped to kiss her forehead, signaling for her to sleep.
Su Shuilian truly was sleepy. She adjusted to a more comfortable position in Lin Si Yao's chest. Then, with her arms around him, she drifted into sleep.
Lin Si Yao studied her small, exquisite face. He had taken in her features for quite a long time before returning her hug, drifting into a peaceful dreamland for the first time after his month apart.
Near the end of zǐ-shí (11 pm-1 am), Su Shuilian was awakened by Lin Long's crying. She hurried to get up and feed the twins. Lin Long finished quickly. Then, Su Shuilian quietly returned to her bed.
"Ah!" As soon as she got on the bed, Lin Si Yao put her under him.
As soon as she touched the hard, hot shaft between his legs, she felt embarrassed, lightly punching his chest. "It's only zǐ-shí..."
"Good timing. No one would disturb us." Lin Si Yao stooped, capturing her fragrant mouth. A deep, lingering kiss had spoken his month's yearning.
"I thought you were tired." After the deep kiss, Su Shuilian breathed heavily to catch her breath.
"It's true. But I'm good now. Don't you see 'he' misses you a lot?" Lin Si Yao cocked his head, smiling. He gently took off every piece of her clothes. Rubbing on her soft skin, as he pressed against her.
"Did you miss me?" He gently stroked her fair skin that foiled his tanned hand, asking tenderly. Under the moonlight creeping into the room, his eyes, the two shining black gemstones, were so bright.
"Yes," Su Shuilian listened to the steady beats of his heart. Suppressing her shyness, she answered him tenderly.
Parting for a whole month, it helped her recognize how deeply she loved him. She didn't want to miss the chance to show him her true love for him just because she was shy.
"Ha ha..." Lin Si Yao smiled, hugging her tightly. He began to move. As he caressed her fullness and pink buds, he replied, "Me too. I missed you... A lot..." It was the first time he fell into a deep, passionate love. He did not expect for his heart to ache from missing her so much.
And her, right at the moment he entered her body, she heard his voice in her ears, which was full of love and yearning. He was truly home!
Chapter 114: A Letter from The Imperial City
Although Lin Si Yao said that he had to go to The Imperial City once, there was no sign of him leaving.
Since he didn't mention it, Su Shuilian didn't ask. Of course, she hoped for him not to go. The immense pain that accompanied their month's parting... That feeling, once was enough.
Si Chong brought Si Luo, who was still in a coma, to Bamboo Garden to recuperate.
Except for Situ Yun, his other hyperactive twenty-four disciples had been brought back to Guangci House. Since both Si Ling and himself were back, they didn't need to worry about security anymore. Si Tuo's days of staying leisured and disturbing others were all gone because of wounded Si Luo.
Moreover, Si Tuo had come to Fan Hua Town himself. The complicated matters, such as choosing an heir for Feng Yao Court, would be handed to him to worry about.
"Do you also think that their characteristics are switched?" Seeing Si Tuo loom over the small bed, watching Lin Long waving her limbs in the crib and Lin Xiao hiding in Bai He's chest, smiling innocently for a long time, Su Shuilian could not help but ask him.
The weather was getting warmer. Especially thanks to Lin Si Yao's persistence, Lin Xiao and Lin Long's small bed had been moved to their own room – the bedroom in the West wing. The two wet-nurses were conveniently placed in the adjacent room outside to take care of them.
Until now, though subtle, Su Shuilian's tired face had subsided. She just needed to breastfeed the kids in the morning after they woke up and before they went to bed.
Three months after her labor, the amount of her milk produced was reducing. Although she had eaten the same foods that were good for lactation, like the two wet-nurses, she didn't have as much milk as the other two. She wondered if it was because of her individual physique.
Before she slept, she often thought about this strange thing. However, whenever she told A Yao about this, he would try to switch the topic by saying something to comfort her or using his passion to wipe away her attempt to study this.
"They were born like that?" Si Tuo's question broke Su Shuilian's train of thought.
"Yeah, it's strange, isn't it?" Su Shuilian got a hold of herself, watching the twins happily chattering, playing on the small bed. She smiled, asking tenderly.
"Yeah..." Actually, he suspected it was due to Si Ling. After they were born, he tried to train their characteristics with the purpose of not letting him take any of his children to train and make him or her the next Master of Feng Yao Court – his most favored successor.
According to the intelligence from Si Chong's disciples and his own observations, it was clear that even at three-months old, Ling Long was more suitable to become Feng Yao Court's Master than Lin Xiao.
She was active and lively. When she was awake and not hungry, she would play alone. She didn't need anybody to accompany her. If she were hungry, she would cry loudly. She would never have a grimace or whine. Not to mention that, as her little, cute face was developing, it became apparent that she had inherited Si Ling's expression of indifference.
Lin Xiao was the complete opposite. When he was awake, he needed someone to hug him and pamper him. When he was hungry, he would only whimper quietly. This kid had various facial expressions. It was easy to read his mood just by looking at his face.
The devastated Si Tuo couldn't imagine how Lin Xiao, who wore his heart on his sleeve, with a spoiled child's temper, could be trained to become the Master of Feng Yao Court?
Needless to say, Lin Long's character was way more suitable!
However, he began to worry. Si Ling and his wife would protest against his idea. Daughters should be nurtured in her boudoir to receive love and protection from others.
Sigh, it was truly a dilemma.
---
"Why are you so hurried? Just let them zhuā zhōu*." Si Chong laughed. He squinted, looking at Si Tuo, who was contemplating for almost two hours after he had visited the twins. Si Tuo was a rather indifferent man, for him to idle and ponder like that, Si Chong could not help but respect the twins who were still wearing diapers.
(抓周/zhuā zhōu - a custom of placing a variety of articles (writing brush, abacus, etc) before an infant on their first birthday to see which one he/he picks up. The article chosen is supposed to be an indication of the child's inclinations, future career, etc.
"Zhuā zhōu?" Of course! At that time, he would bring Feng Yao Court's Master Token - the jasper ornamental thumb-ring so the kids could choose it. The kid that chose the ring would become the next Master of Feng Yao Court. No matter whom it was, he would try his best to train them.
Let's do just that! It would save him from more worries.
"I heard that the most mysterious 'Knight' organization had returned to Jianghu?" Si Chong remembered the news he and Si Ling had received a month ago. He frowned, asking.
"Yeah, unexpectedly, they were working for the officials." Si Tuo leaned against the window, his eyes gazing at the flowers blooming in spring, and nodded his head.
"They aren't from the officials, but the royals," corrected Si Chong. "If the twelve Blood Knights weren't so tough to deal with, perhaps the 'Knights' wouldn't have shown up. What I don't understand is why they have to stay in Jianghu?"
Si Chong shook his head. He hadn't figured out why the 'Knights' had shown up yet.
"They keep an eye on the imperial court and Jianghu. If any party messes around, they will deal with that party. In other words, if the imperial court does wrong, they can even overturn the entire imperial court." Si Tuo retracted his eyes from the winter jasmines. He turned around and walked towards the table in the middle of the room. He sat down and poured himself a cup of fragrant tea before continuing.
"And now, they are exposed to the imperial court. There will be no doubt that everyone is walking on needles."
"That's why Si Ling needs to show himself."
"Does he really need to go into the imperial palace?"
"I think so. Even if he doesn't want to, he has to."
Right, a married man would be different from them. He had to shoulder more responsibilities. And, single men like them could do whatever they wanted. No one could force them.
However, Si Ling getting involved in a dispute between the two nations was to save Si Luo.
And Si Luo... The two of them glanced over Si Luo, who was lying on the bed with an ashen face due to his long coma. They sighed.
Was it their bad luck? If Si Luo hadn't gone to the West Corridor to take revenge, he wouldn't have been so injured. But if he hadn't done that, they wouldn't have discovered the Blood Union's conspiracy that quickly. Allowing the twelve Blood Knights to hide in the West Corridor, no one knew when the chaos and war would erupt.
In the end, it was Da Hui Empire's fortune.
Eh? Since when did they begin to have unnecessary worries like this? They were two of the top ten assassins in Jianghu. Er... Although their identities were changed now: One was in charge of an intelligence organization; one was Feng Yao Court's temporary Master that had switched to "vegan mode". Neither of them were considered 'good people'. And now, they are sitting here talking about their country's peace and the people's welfare, it wasn't their initial intention. Really! Swear to God!
---
"Beautiful jie-jie, is Xiao Chun sick?" Situ Yun went to visit Xiao Chun in the backyard but returned quickly to alert Su Shuilian, who was playing with the twins who just started to learn to talk.
"No, A Yao checked this morning. Perhaps he just misses Xiao Xue." Su Shuilian shook her head.
After she got pregnant, Xiao Chun rarely left the house. If she took a walk outside, Xiao Chun would follow her closely. And when Feng Qing Ya destroyed their house, she and Chun Lan were in the cellar of the new house. Xiao Chun was with them then as well. That's how he avoided danger.
Then, Elder Wangye and Wangfei came. There were more people going in and out of the house. It became too noisy for Xiao Chun, who enjoyed peace and quiet. Thus, with Lin Si Yao's suggestion, he headed to Mount DaShi, resuming the training it had done with Lin Si Yao.
Occasionally, Xiao Chun would bring wild rabbits home. The servants would roast them for him. Other times, wild fruits were delivered, including the longans and lychees that were extremely rare even in the big stores in the city. The cold and refreshing fruits were personally dropped onto Su Shuilian's lap. His calm life was regular but interesting.
But this month, though he entered the mountain every day, Xiao Chun's appearance showed displeasure. Even Situ Yun, who habitually came and teased him, felt his strange mood.
"What's wrong with them? Pregnant?" Situ Yun guessed without any obvious clue. Su Shuilian didn't know if she should cry or laugh.
"Yun-er, Xiao Chun is a male."
"So he must have lovesickness. My Shifu said that no matter if it's human or animal, as long as he doesn't want to eat or drink, he must be lovesick." Situ Yun said, then clapped his hands, looking content as if he was "totally correct".
"What? Could it be?" Su Shuilian suddenly remembered the time Xiao Xue had been pregnant with the cubs. She thought this presumption was possible.
"But Xiao Chun comes to the mountain every day. Why does he look like that?" If Xiao Chun went on dates daily, what would cause his lovesickness?
"Beautiful jie-jie, you don't know this but 'parting for one day is longing for three autumns'. When Uncle Si Ling wasn't home, you also looked unhappy. Am I right?..." While Situ Yun explained to Su Shuilian, he did not forget to tease her. Unexpectedly, before he could finish, someone had knocked his head.
"Disrespectful!"
"Ouch! Uncle, I'm just worried that beautiful jie-jie doesn't understand." Situ Yun rubbed his head, resentfully looking at Lin Si Yao, who had just walked through the door, mumbling.
"Call her Auntie!" This little evil didn't change the way he addressed her even though he had taught him many times! He called Shuilian a beautiful jie-jie, but he called Lin Si Yao 'Uncle'. Wouldn't that be interpreted that he was one-generation older than his wife? Lin Si Yao corrected Situ Yun in displeasure.
"Hehe! If I call her that, I will make her feel old, won't I? Beautiful jie-jie is just seventeen years old. And I'm just thirteen. What kind of nephew is four years younger than his aunt?" Situ Yun fearlessly emphasized then sprinted out of the room, winking at Lin Si Yao. "Uncle, I'm not going to bother you guys anymore! I'm going back to check on Xiao Chun." He disappeared shortly after.
"That runt! (I) should ask Si Chong to reteach him!" Lin Si Yao snorted annoyedly. Then, he gently pulled Su Shuilian into his embrace, also hugging Lin Long whom she was holding.
"My mind is at ease as Yun-er is here." Su Shuilian was afraid that her husband would really send Situ Yun back to Guangci House. Thus, she smiled, trying to rescue Situ Yun from his looming demise. Whenever she needed to head out on short errands, knowing that Situ Yun was here to watch the twins made her feel more assured.
"I know." Lin Si Yao placed his chin on her shoulder, answering glumly. He knew they needed Situ Yun here to protect his family. Thus, he couldn't kick him back to Guangci House.
"Your elder brother sent a letter, urging us to go to The Imperial City." Lin Si Yao muttered a moment later, breaking the silence in the room.
"Us?" Su Shuilian was surprised, almost turning around to look at him, wanting to confirm what he had just said.
"Right, we will go together." Almost at the same time, she received his confirmation.
Chapter 115: Heartfelt Feelings of Fan Hua Town
At the end of the second lunar month, Liang En Zai sent a letter urging Lin Si Yao to go to the Imperial Palace.
It was already the end of the month, and it was the last line Liang En Zai could accept.
According to the person in the Imperial Palace, Lin Si Yao should have arrived during the first lunar month to receive his reward.
However, Liang En Zai knew that Lin Si Yao had just gotten back from the West Corridor. This couple needed some time to express their love. It would be best if his sister, Liang En Xu, would be blessed with another pair of rare twins. It would continue to distract his father, and the old man wouldn't urge him to get married.
However, one month was the limit of his ability. If Lin Si Yao lingered further, the person in the palace would think that he had done something to hinder the other.
Thus, Lin Si Yao had lingered until the twenty-sixth, when the messenger from Guangci House came to tell him that he must arrive at the Imperial City before the sixth day of March, which was the fiftieth birthday of the Emperor. On that day, the Imperial City would be very bustling and lively. Liang En Zai suggested Lin Si Yao to bring his sister Liang En Xu to the Imperial City to feel the air in Feng Cheng, Da Hui Empire's capital, on such a big day. But, the best case scenario would be that his entire family would decide to live permanently in the Imperial City.
And so, they set off before the third day of the third lunar month.
In his letter, Liang En Zai emphasized many times that no matter what, Lin Si Yao must come. Otherwise, not only Prince Jing's Mansion but the entire Liang family would have to face a horrible disaster that had never been seen in their history. He was sure that Lin Si Yao didn't want to stand and watch that happen.
If Shuilian hadn't had any relation to the Liangs, of course, he would have just stood and watched.
After Lin Si Yao read the letter, the corners of his mouth rose to a cold smile. He crumpled the letter in his hand. Then, when he opened his hand, dust scattered, falling on the apricot blossom pot right under his window.
------
Lin Si Yao decided to depart on the first day of March.
The trip would take about five days. If nothing unexpected happened, they would arrive in The Imperial City before the sixth.
A generous five days was set in consideration of Su Shuilian, who rarely went on long road trips, as well as the twins that weren't even four-months-old. They may get the same reaction as Long Xi Xue (who came here to support Su Shuilain's labor), car sickness, due to bumpy roads and the shaking carriage.
Besides the renovation work and the private mansion's construction, there would be nothing else to do. It would be better to depart earlier, enjoy their trip leisurely, and sightsee.
Thus, they used the last two days of the month to prepare for the trip.
Su Shuilian considered it a lot. Eventually, she decided to bring the two wet-nurses, Bai He and Liang-momo. After Chun Lan and Xiao Heng had received their new managing positions, they became much busier. Thus, Su Shuilian decided to not count the couple.
And, Lin Si Yao decided to take Situ Yun with them. Firstly, he needed to go to the Imperial Palace this time. He needed a good hand to protect Shuilian and the twins. Secondly, they needed manpower.
Situ Yun was elated at the news. It seems his Uncle Si Ling and his beautiful jie-jie really needed him!
Yes, they needed him, however, Lin Si Yao only considered him a servant and a bodyguard.
After they got the list of participants, they began to prepare the necessary items to bring along.
Liang-momo and Bai He took a whole day and night to pack up everything including clothes and necessary daily items, food, and tea in case they couldn't find an inn. They even brought the chessboard, books, and wooden toys Tian Da Fu had gifted the kids so that their Lady, their Young Lady, and Young Master could pass time...
Lin Si Yao drove a four-horse-two-car carriage that Tian Da Fu had modified, to carry the delegation along this long journey.
The special carriage was used to carry Shuilian and the twins. The floor and the seats were cushioned with soft fox fur that could reduce shock while traveling. Tian Da Fu had expanded the back seats so they could lie down when they were tired.
One of the two wooden chairs installed on two sides of the carriage were removed and replaced by a chest for the storage of miscellaneous items.
The two carriages were equipped with stoves that were secured by steel wire. They even brought coals enough for five days. During the trip, they could use it to boil water to wash their faces or make some tea... In case they had to stay outdoors, they could save it by going out to collect wood.
Prince Jing's Mansion's carriages were spacious. These two carriages weren't exceptions. Each could seat twelve people. Thus, even if they were modified, they still had enough room for them. To ensure his wife and childrens' safety, Lin Si Yao stayed in the same carriage with them. Situ Yun, Liang-momo, and the others took the other carriage. However, as Situ Yun had to ride with all female companions, he decided to sit with the driver instead.
Before they departed, Su Shuilian spoke to Chun Lan.
"Lady, don't worry. This servant will take care of everything carefully." Chun Lan could guess why Su Shuilian came to see her. She gently massaged Su Shuilian's shoulder, promising her.
"I know you and Manager Xiao are hard workers. What I wanted to say was, if something happens in the village, for small matters, you can find the Town Elder. Otherwise, you should find Si Chong." Su Shuilian smiled, gently pulled the hands on her shoulder, patting her.
"This servant understands," Chun Lan carefully remembered her advice.
"And, Xiao Chun has not been home for several days. I think he ran to the mountain. You don't need to worry. That dog is really smart. It'll be okay. If something unexpected happens, you should find Si Chong."
A Yao told Si Chong to stay in Bamboo Garden to take care of Si Luo and protect their house.
"Oh right, are the construction masters okay?" After A Yao came home, she hadn't left the house. Thus, she didn't know the progress of the planning and the private mansion's construction.
"This servant has met with them every day. Most of the time, it's just a trivial matter during the construction. There were simple solutions, so this servant did not disturb you."
"It's good. If there's something you can't decide, you can ask Si Chong. When A Yao and I aren't here, he'll be the stand-in master. So don't become too lax!"
Su Shuilian used to live as a rich first daughter of a prominent family. She understood the mindsets of the servants well. Also, she wanted to take the chance and remind Chun Lan. She was just afraid that the maids and the servants would be lazy as their masters weren't home. If this were to displease Si Chong, their lives could be lost in a blink of an eye!
"My Lady, don't worry. This servant understands all of this. Actually, most of the workers and craftsmen working on the private mansion are staying in Fan Hua Town. The construction masters said that they would start the work on a massive scale by the middle of the month, but they haven't recruited enough workers. This servant wonders if we should recruit more people from the two adjacent towns?"
"You and Manager Xiao discuss and decide for yourself. When you need help, ask the Town Elder." Su Shuilian nodded. Since their positions have risen, for these matters, the meticulous Chun Lan and sensible Xiao Heng could decide themselves.
Moreover, A Yao had already asked the Town Elder, Wang Geng Fa, to keep an eye out for their household while his family was away.
Of course, Wang Geng Fa agreed without a bit of hesitation.
After Prince Jing's Mansion had bought the entire Fan Hua Town, the villagers who decided to stay always wore a happy face.
Firstly, they didn't need to pay taxes anymore, which would reduce the burden on their livelihood.
Secondly, after the construction masters came, the map of Fan Hua Town's planning and construction had been posted in front of the ancestral hall in the center of the village for quite a long time.
Soon, in the near future, they would be able to live in a place that could be compared to the Garden of a Hundred Flowers with two spacious roads leading to Fan Luo City and the surrounding towns.
Thirdly, the mountains around would be re-scaped to become natural resorts where they could go and enjoy.
Pavilions would be built on the mountains' flanks. The villagers could go there to rest when needed. By the stream, there would be a place to go fishing and a preinstalled barbeque grill. When they got the fish, they could cook it immediately.
In more detail, there would be a river to be dug up; a stone bridge crossed over the river; a clean, vast, and deep lake would be dug, filled with fish, shrimp, and even crabs. By the river, was a slope covered in green grass. On it was a pavilion and stone benches so the villagers could rest and chat some.
Talking about the public construction, the greatest change would be the new big, imposing ancestral hall.
As soon as one walks into the central courtyard of the hall, there would be multiple stone tables and chairs. On the tables were chess boards carved on top and surrounding them were green bamboo and wisteria. The main building of the hall was built with five rooms. One room was a dedicated office for the Town Elder, equipped with a wooden desk and wooden chairs. Another room was constructed to be a counseling room. This room had an elongated oval table accompanied by small circular stools that could seat twenty or even thirty people. The other two rooms were filled with rows of bookshelves that were as high as the height of two adults. Each row holds different kinds of categorized books. The villagers could come and borrow any book as they liked. Of course, if someone damaged the books or didn't return the books in time, the Town Elder would ban them from reading and borrowing books here. The last room did not yet have a specific purpose. Currently, it was used to store the village's public appliances, for example, the large-sized farming tools and equipment. Previously, they could not afford such luxury goods. However, now Prince Jing's Mansion had brought the tools and let them use them during the harvesting season.
After these plans were posted, the people in Fan Hua Town would happily discuss the matter to others.
When their relatives visited their homes from the two adjacent towns, or when they visited their friends or family out of the city, whenever they spoke of the changes in Fan Hua Town, everybody would show an envious look. Either that or the listening party would ask if they could move to Fan Hua Town!
Thus, within one night, Fan Hua Town became the hot news of Fan Luo City. Even the two neighboring towns, Huansha Town and Tian Shui Town, came to inquire if such good news was true or not. When they got the confirmation, the local rich families and landlords hoped to build a small villa in Fan Hua Town, for the sake of a vacation house.
The Town Elder, Wang Geng Fa, was initially stunned at the news. After getting himself together, he couldn't hide his joy.
He had hoped that one day, he would lead Fan Hua Town out of the sticks, making them well-known in their country. And now, Fan Hua Town was considered Wangye Jing's Fan Hua Private Mansion. And this happened while he was still in leadership, wasn't it?
Thus, no matter if it was big or small, simple or complicated, as long as it pertained to Fan Hua Private Mansion's situation, he was happy to extend his hands. No matter what, these matters indirectly benefited the entire town, this was not only the Town Elder's, but also all of the villager's, heartfelt feelings.