Chapter 311: Tricky Questions
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Herlyee Translations
The night was as thick as a black velvet cloth, embellished with stars that were as brilliant as diamonds.
Shen Yao stood in front of the window with his hands behind his back. He looked up at the starlight in the night sky, his heart as calm as water.
Until Ji Zhao deliberately lightened her footsteps and wrapped her arms around his waist.
'What are you thinking about?" Ji Zhao asked softly.
"I'm thinking about today's questions." Shen Yao turned around and pulled her into his arms with a smile. He explained gently, 'This year's questions are a little different from the previous years."
Although his grades had been replaced four years ago, Shen Yao had been paying attention to the questions over the years.
"Actually, the examination questions in the provincial imperial exams have been similar all these years. The questions in the past years are also very empty and not difficult to answer. Moreover, most of the essays written by the majority of the people who got ranked in the past years were mostly fanciful and gorgeous. However, this year's questions have fallen into reality."
"If a state suffers from drought every year and locusts happen to pass through, what should those in power do?" Shen Yao chuckled. 'This is today's test question."
"This question?" Ji Zhao was also extremely surprised.
Wasn't this what they had experienced in Dingyuan County?
"Could this test be tailor-made for you?' A bold guess suddenly surfaced in Ji Zhao's heart.
Shen Yao did not know either, but this question was indeed a coincidence for him.
"By the way, Brother Qin came to look for me today. He invited us to his birthday banquet! Ji Zhao smiled and changed the topic. "Why don't we go together? After you finish your last exam, let's go pick a gift for him?"
"Okay," Shen Yao agreed with a smile. He could not help but pinch her face again. "I'll listen to you."
Hearing this, Ji Zhao shyly buried her head in his arms.
Seeing this, the crescent moon also quietly hid in the dark clouds.
August 15th, Mid-Autumn Festival.
At the same time, it was also the last round of the provincial imperial examination.
The time for the exam was set at 9:15 am. The moment the bell rang, the examinees could start writing.
When Shen Yao opened the questions again, a trace of surprise flashed across his eyes.
The last question was really interesting.
The test question was actually a short story. A cow was sick. The cowman sent it to the vet. The vet examined it and found that the cow was already terminally ill and could not be eaten.
The cowman was heartbroken and sold the cow at a low price. However, the butcher who bought the cow was the vet's younger brother. In fact, this cow was not sick at all.
After the cowman found out the truth, he went to the vet to reason with him. In the end, the vet bit back and said that the cow had an infectious disease. Instead, he asked the cowman for money to treat it. The younger brother of the vet, the butcher, also twisted his words and accused the cowman of having ill intentions and deliberately selling the sick cow to him. The cowman was a simple and honest person. He had never seen such a scene before. In the end, he begged the county magistrate, but the county magistrate could not differentiate right from wrong. The cowman did not expect that he, the victim, would become the vicious party. In the end, he bit his tongue in the hall and committed suicide.
Later on, the cowman's wife, filled with hatred, sold all her belongings and brought her family to the magistrate's office to sound the drum of injustice.
The examinees had to answer the question: If they were the magistrate, how should they deal with the matter when faced with two parties who had different testimonies?
This question was really tricky.
After all, no one knew if that cow was a sick cow.
Many examinees scratched their ears and cheeks with blank expressions.
Only Shen Yao immediately started writing after reading the questions. Soon, he finished writing.
When Qin Chen, the invigilator, saw the paper Shen Yao had written, his eyes lit up. It was a refreshing sight!
The last question of this year's provincial imperial examination was written by the current emperor. It was said that Prince XianO was also involved.
His Majesty and Prince Xian were both sons of the current Empress Dowager. Prince Xian was also trusted by His Majesty.
Although Prince Xian had just come of age, his military achievements were incomparably illustrious.
Seven years ago, the thirteen-year-old Prince Xian became famous in a single battle. After his division returned to the imperial court, he handed over military power, but His Majesty was unwilling to take over. Later, Prince Xian stayed in the imperial court, but he rarely expressed his opinion on the imperial court.
It was only at the beginning of this year that Prince Xian suddenly took action, resulting in such a tricky question in the provincial imperial examination.
Qin Chen thought that he had studied for many years, but when faced with such a tricky question, even he was at his wits' end.
He was even a little worried that very few people would be able to make it onto the rankings.
It was not until he saw Shen Yao's answer sheet that he understood the true meaning of Prince Xian's question.
Yinchuan Inn.
Ji Zhao also made some snow skin mooncakes and prepared some exquisite food boxes, placing the mooncakes inside.
"Madam, your hands are clever." After tasting a piece of snow skin mooncake with bean paste filling, Innkeeper Qian gave Ji Zhao a thumbs up from the bottom of his heart. "I've tried many mooncakes, but the taste of those mooncakes is not as good as Madam's snow skin mooncakes!"
"If Innkeeper Qian likes it, eat two more pieces." Ji Zhao handed Innkeeper Qian a few more mooncakes. "In addition to the bean paste filling, I also made some lotus filling and winter melon filling. But if you ask me, the most delicious thing is still the egg yolk filling."
"How can I accept that?" Innkeeper Qian waved his hand repeatedly. "How about this, Madam? Can you sell this mooncake to me?'
"Innkeeper Qian, we've troubled you a lot during this period of time. Moreover, you've arranged our three meals well. I even borrowed the inn's kitchen from time to time," Ji Zhao said very honestly. "Take these mooncakes as a token of our appreciation. If you don't accept them, I won't agree!"
Seeing that he really could not refuse, Innkeeper Qian could only accept the mooncakes. However, he secretly made up his mind. If the Shen couple had any instructions in the future, he would definitely not refuse!
"By the way, I heard that Madam is preparing to open a restaurant in the prefecture capital?" Innkeeper Qian suddenly thought of something and asked with concern, "1 wonder if Madam has chosen a location for this shop?" "Brother Qin helped me choose three shops. It's just that my husband has to take an exam during this period of time, so we haven't had the time to take a look yet." Ji Zhao explained as she boxed the mooncakes. "However, we definitely have to stay in the prefecture city for a long time. In a few days, we'll find a suitable residence first. After we settle down, we'll slowly look at the shops. '
"Madam, there are at least a dozen taverns of all sizes in our Yunchuan Prefecture. If you want to open a restaurant, you still have to spend some effort," Innkeeper Qian hurriedly said. "For example, the largest restaurant in the prefecture capital, Tianxiang Restaurant. Their roast duck is superb. The scholarly and elegant guests love to go to Gaosheng Restaurant. Actually, the taste of the food in Gaosheng Restaurant is average, but it can't compare to the rich and imposing owner behind the scenes. He invites people to perform on stage every ten days. The other restaurants also have their own merits."
"Actually, when I first thought of opening a restaurant in the prefecture capital, Brother Qin already said that there are many restaurants in the prefecture capital. It's not easy to let Spring Breeze Pavilion have a place in the prefecture capital." Ji Zhao smiled faintly. "However, I think with my culinary skills, I can definitely do this!"
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Chapter 312: Buying a Small Courtyard
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Herlyee Translations
Innkeeper Qian did not expect Ji Zhao to be so confident. He was stunned at first, then he smiled and nodded. "Madam's culinary skills are indeed extraordinary. I wonder what kind of restaurant Madam is planning to open?"
"Catering to rich people." Ji Zhao chuckled and kept him in suspense. "When Spring Breeze Pavilion opens, Innkeeper Qian, why don't you come and support us?"
"Okay."
Perhaps it was because it was the Mid -Autumn Festival today, so the heavens were in a good mood. At noon, it actually rained. The autumn rain was slightly cold, and the hot temperature had also decreased. The weather after the rain was very comfortable.
In the Qin Residence, Pangui Hall.
First Madam Qin did not expect Ji Zhao to visit her personally.
"I originally planned to visit with my husband tomorrow. After all, it's Brother Qin's birthday banquet tomorrow." Ji Zhao smiled and explained gently, "But later on, I thought that today is only the Mid-Autumn Festival, so after some consideration, I decided to visit. I mainly want Madam to try this snow skin mooncake. I'm really sorry to disturb you."
"Girl, what are you thinking?" When Madam Qin heard her words, she couldn't help but laugh. "You have good intentions. I'm not the kind of person who doesn't know what's good for me. Besides, I'm very happy that you can come." "Madam, why don't you try it?"
"Ah Tao, I heard from Minghong that you were very close friends when you were in Dingyuan County?"
"Yes." Ji Zhao nodded honestly. "Brother Qin is very kind, so my husband and I sincerely treat him as a good friend. Putting aside our business cooperation, we feel that Brother Qin is someone worth befriending."
Even if Qin Minghong's surname was not Qin, she and Shen Yao were still willing to be friends with him.
Eldest Madam Qin did not expect Ji Zhao to be so pure-hearted. She pointed out her worries concisely.
"Now I understand why my brother is willing to take you in as his disciple." First Madam Qin smiled and then said, "My maiden family's surname is Chen, and my name is Fangrong. If you don't mind, you can call me Aunt Rong in the future."
Ji Zhao nodded obediently and smiled. "Okay, Aunt Rong."
First Madam Qin smiled and responded. She couldn 't help but feel a little emotional.
This girl was generous, obedient, and pure. No wonder everyone liked her so much!
"I heard from Minghong that your culinary skills are also excellent?" First Madam Qin smiled and nodded at Nanny Wu beside her. Then, Nanny Wu brought over a menu and handed it to Ji Zhao. "Tomorrow is Minghong's birthday. Help me take a look at this menu. Is there anything wrong with it?"
"Okay." Ji Zhao agreed generously. After she finished reading the menu, she frowned thoughtfully and asked, "Aunt Rong, who drafted this menu?"
"Minghong's stepmother." Seeing her troubled expression, First Madam Qin understood. "Ah Tao, is there anything wrong with this menu?"
"At first glance, there's nothing wrong with this menu, but if you think about it carefully, there are many problems," Ji Zhao explained in a serious tone. '"The braised beef with sauce and the brown sugar glutinous glutinous rice cake can't be eaten together. If you eat both dishes at the same time, it will make you bloated. In addition, this carp and licorice shouldn't be placed together. If you eat the carp and drink the sweet soup with licorice, you will be poisoned. And this chicken and mustard greens, eating both together will harm your vitality." First Madam Qin only felt a nameless fire rise in her heart, but she forcefully suppressed it.
"That person from Ruyi Pavilion won't shed tears until she sees the coffin!" First Madam Qin sneered and glanced at Nanny Wu. "Since she can't even organize such a simple banquet, there is no need for her to be the head of the family."
"Nanny, send someone to invite Second Master back to the residence! If we don't tear off a layer of her face in front of everyone, I'm afraid she won't stop!
Also, go and bring the doctor over!"
"I'll go immediately," Nanny Wu replied quickly and left the hall in a hurry.
Although First Madam Qin's tone was very calm, Ji Zhao could still hear the fierce killing intent hidden in it.
However, Ji Zhao was not interested in other people's family matters, so she immediately said goodbye.
First Madam Qin did not stop her and only reminded her to come early tomorrow.
When Ji Zhao returned to the inn, Shen Yao had already returned.
"This is?" Ji Zhao was a little surprised when she saw the title deed.
"I bought a small courtyard not far from the inn. Do you want to take a look?"
Shen Yao picked up a bunch of keys and handed them to her. The smile on his face was gentle and refined.
"You bought a small courtyard?" Ji Zhao was a little surprised and confused.
"But how did you get the money?"
"Some time ago, I sold a few paintings." Shen Yao tapped the tip of her nose dotingly and explained with a smile, "A rich businessman took a fancy to my paintings and bought them at a high price. I haven't had the time to tell you."
"I see." Ji Zhao smiled in realization. When she saw the name on the deed, she was even more puzzled. "Shen Yao, why is my name written on it?"
"Silly girl." Looking at her confused expression, the smile in Shen Yao's eyes deepened. "Because you're my wife! This title deed naturally has your name written on it."
Only then did Ji Zhao react. The corners of her lips curled up slightly with a gentle smile.
"Shen Yao, why are you so good to me!"
"It's only right for me to treat my wife well." Shen Yao hugged her and chuckled. "Zhaozhao, it's still early. Do you want to go take a look now?"
"Sure!"
Before Ji Zhao returned, Shen Yao had already packed their luggage.
No matter how good the inn was, it was not their home after all, so they could not find the so-called sense of belonging.
After bidding farewell to Innkeeper Qian, the two of them held hands and walked towards the long street in the south.
Yunchuan Prefecture City was very large. Other than the most prosperous long street, there were two other roads. They were Ginkgo Road and Wutong Road. These two roads intersected in the shape of a cross, dividing Yunchuan Prefecture City into four parts: north, south, east, and west.
In the east were some exquisite and elegant large courtyards. Most of them were the residences of powerful people. The largest courtyard was the Qin residence.
On the west side were government offices and some restaurants. Most of the people living in the south were ordinary people. On the north side, there were many simple bamboo buildings. The people living there were also people from poor families.
Shen Yao had long taken a fancy to a small courtyard in the south.
The courtyard was not big, but there were two pomegranate trees planted in the front yard and an ancient well in the backyard.
He pushed the door open and entered the hall. On the right was the spacious and bright main house, and on the left was the utility room.
"The kitchen moved me the most in this courtyard.." Shen Yao turned to look at the happy Ji Zhao and explained with a smile, "Zhaozhao, do you want to go over and take a look?
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Chapter 313: Stronger than His Father
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Herlyee Translations
Hearing this, Ji Zhao was a little curious. "Kitchen?"
'Mm." Shen Yao smiled and led her to the kitchen.
The kitchen was not too big, but it had a hot and cold stove. Moreover, the pots and pans were neatly placed on the shelves in the north side. It was simple and clean.
The moment she stepped into the kitchen, Ji Zhao felt a breeze on her face.
"It seems to be exceptionally cool inside?"
"Zhaozhao, look." Following Shen Yao's finger, Ji Zhao noticed that there was a window on the southern wall. The window was not big, but the light was very bright. More importantly, the wind that blew in through the window was exceptionally cool.
"Follow me." Shen Yao brought her to the window and slowly squatted down. He pointed at a rice jar that was half the height of a person in the corner and smiled without saying anything.
"Icehouse?' Ji Zhao immediately pointed out the mystery hidden in this kitchen. "There's actually an icehouse in this kitchen?"
"Yes." Shen Yao did not expect her to guess it so quickly. "Actually, I've seen a few other houses before, but this is the one I like the most. I heard that the previous owner was a merchant from the north and was most afraid of heat, so they got someone to dig an icehouse under the kitchen. Firstly, it's to store vegetables, and secondly, it's to lower the temperature."
"Shen Yao, this courtyard is really good." Ji Zhao also expressed her liking for this courtyard. However, she thought for a moment and said, "l still have some money on hand. Let's buy your paintings back, okay?"
"Silly girl, every painting that is drawn is for people to admire." Shen Yao smiled and rubbed her head as he explained in a low voice.
"Then don't be like this in the future, okay?" Ji Zhao thought for a moment and said with a serious gaze, "In my eyes, your paintings are worth thousands of gold. So in the future, you're not allowed to sell paintings without my permission."
"I'll follow your instructions!" Shen Yao nodded gently. Then, he leaned behind her ear and said in a low voice, "Wife, I'm a little hungry.'
'What do you want to eat?" Ji Zhao couldn't help but shrink her neck and smile.
"I like all the delicacies made by my wife.'
"Go start the fire. I'll cook." Ji Zhao crawled out of his arms and said with a smile.
"Okay!'
Compared to Ji Zhao and her husband's warm small courtyard, the Qin Residence could be said to be in chaos.
Qin Chen didn't expect Madam Liu, who had shared a bed with him for more than 20 years, to be so vicious!
"If Sister-in-law hadn't placed the evidence in front of me, I would never have believed that you would secretly use so many methods to deal with Minghong." Qin Chen looked at Liu Piaoxue, who was kneeling silently in the hall, with a pained expression, and his heart was filled with grief and indignation. "Old Master, you trust Chen Fangrong's words that much?" Madam Liu, who was furious, acted aggrieved. "Ever since I married into the Qin family, I've been taking care of my husband and the children. I've never said a word of complaint. But now, just based on Eldest Sister-in-law's one-sided words, Master has determined that I'm the vicious stepmother? If I want to harm
Minghong, does Master think Minghong can still grow up healthily?"
"After we got married, you were focused on working hard in the bureaucracy. When did you care about the matters of the Inner Residence? There are many servants in this family, and every single matter has to be calculated carefully. Did you care if I was tired? Now, you want to sentence me to death with just a menu! Although Minghong is not my biological son, he has been raised by me
since he was young. Could it be that in Old Master's eyes, I am so vicious?"
"You..." Qin Chen had never seen Madam Liu so sharp-tongued. For a moment, he didn't know what to say.
On the other hand, First Madam Qin, who had been sitting at the side and listening, could not help but laugh.
"Second Brother, do you still remember what you said to your eldest brother when you knelt in front of him in order to marry Madam Liu?" Madam Qin slowly looked up, her eyes filled with helplessness. "You know very well why Minghong's biological mother passed away not long after giving birth. You always thought that Minghong's mother came from a merchant family and didn't know poetry and songs. She couldn't get along with you. Unlike Madam Liu, who was gentle, refined, educated, and reasonable, but now? Do you still think that Madam Liu is really a good person in your heart?"
"Chen Fangrong, shut up!" Madam Liu reprimanded angrily, "Don't think I don't know that you're the one who instigated all of this. If you want to take back your power, just take it. Why did you set me up? Are you only satisfied after you ruin our husband and wife relationship?"
"Or could it be that you're a widow and can 't stand seeing other couples getting along?!' Pall!
Unexpectedly, the moment she finished speaking, Qin Chen gave her a loud slap!
"You... you actually hit me because of her?" Madam Liu was furious and cried hysterically, "I've long suspected that there was an unclear relationship between the two of you. What, did I expose you? Are you angry from embarrassment?"
"If you don't know how to speak, then there is no need for this tongue." First Madam Qin slowly raised her eyes. Her cold gaze was filled with killing intent. That gaze made people tremble in fear.
Madam Liu was also stunned by that fierce gaze.
"On account of the fact that you gave birth to Mingyao for the Qin family, I can pretend that I didn't hear what you said just now. If you dare to spout nonsense again, don't blame me for pulling out your tongue."
"Second Brother, it's not the first time that Madam Liu wants to harm
Minghong's life." First Madam Qin slowly stood up and said indifferently, "Logically speaking, this is your family's matter. As your sister-in-law, I shouldn't ask too much, but don't forget the oath you made in front of your eldest brother!"
"As the saying goes, if you marry an unvirtuous wife, you will bring disaster to the three generations."
After saying this, First Madam Qin left Zhaohui Hall.
At that moment, Qin Chen was already covered in cold sweat. How could he forget the oath he had once sworn in front of his elder brother?
The reason why he could go from being a beggar to being called Lord Qin by others was because his surname was Qin.
Although Eldest Brother had been missing for many years, his sister-in-law was not a fool.
If the Qin family really collapsed in his hands, then his death was not worth pitying.
"Madam Liu, this is the end of our relationship as husband and wife." After some consideration, he decided to divorce his wife.
"No! Qin Chen, I won't agree!" Madam Liu cried hysterically. "1 don't want to! You can't do this!"
"I've already made up my mind." He looked at her calmly, and his tone was extremely indifferent. "From the moment you couldn't tolerate Minghong, you should have known that sooner or later, we would cut ties. '
"No... I don't want to..."
Qin Chen ignored the hysterical Madam Liu and turned to leave Zhaohui Hall.
Pangui Hall.
Upon hearing the news of Qin Chen's divorce, Madam Qin's expression was as calm as ever.
Nanny Wu, who was grinding ink, sighed softly, "Madam Liu really brought this upon herself..."
"Most people in the world are people who don't get up early without benefits. Even Second Brother is no exception," First Madam Qin said indifferently. "If he still wants to have the surname Qin, he naturally has to cut the Gordian knot and settle these things as soon as possible."
"Madam, if Young Master Minghong finds out about his background—"
"It's fine." Madam Qin smiled indifferently. "Minghong is smart, much smarter than his father..'
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Chapter 314: I Missed You
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Herlyee Translations
When Qin Minghong, who was standing outside Pangui Hall, heard this, his heart could not help but skip a beat.
After much deliberation, he still walked into the hall with heavy steps.
Looking at his dejected expression, First Madam Qin gave Nanny Wu a look.
After a while, Nanny Wu brought over two servings of sweet soup.
"I remember that when you were young, you loved to eat Nanny WU's red bean sweet soup. At that time, your life at home was not easy. Madam Liu was used to putting on an act. Your father was devoted to the imperial court and rarely cared about you. You were also mischievous and stubborn. You often went out to fight. No matter if you lost or won, you would come to Pangui Hall." First Madam Qin picked up a bowl of red bean sweet soup and fiddled with the spoon in the bowl as she sighed softly.
'When I was young, if it wasn't for Aunt's secret protection, I don't think I would have reached adulthood," Qin Minghong said gratefully. "Before my wet nurse passed away, she also said that Aunt and my mother were good friends. So before she died, she told me that if Madam Liu plotted against me in the future, she wanted me to come to Pangui Hall often. At that time, I was too young and didn't understand my wet nurse's good intentions."
"Try the sweet soup. It won't taste good if it's cold." First Madam Qin smiled at him, her eyes gentle.
Qin Minghong quietly finished the bowl of sweet soup and left.
Although he had some doubts in his heart, he still did not speak.
After all, sometimes ignorance was bliss.
The moment he stepped out of the Qin Residence, Qin Minghong raised his head and stared at the bright moon hanging in the night sky. His heart was filled with mixed feelings.
He suddenly remembered that it was Mid-Autumn Festival today, but he could not eat a reunion meal.
At the mention of the prefecture capital's Qin family, everyone would be envious.
But he only felt lonely.
Early in the evening, Ji Zhao made three simple dishes and a soup. They were all Shen Yao's favorite dishes.
When Ji Zhao was cooking in the kitchen, Shen Yao had also taken the time to tidy up the courtyard.
Under the lush old locust tree was a small wooden table. Beside it were two bamboo chairs.
"It's time to eat." After the dishes were served, Ji Zhao said with a smile, "Are you anxious from waiting? Let's eat?'
"Okay."
The two of them smiled at each other and ate quietly.
Compared to the moonlight tonight, Shen Yao felt that his little wife was the most beautiful woman in the world.
"Ahem." The way he looked at her was straightforward and passionate, even with undisguised desire.
Being stared at by him like this, Ji Zhao felt her cheeks begin to heat up.
'You—"
Before she could finish her question, Shen Yao approached her unexpectedly.
Even though they had already become husband and wife, every time he approached, Ji Zhao would blush and her heart would race.
Ji Zhao clenched the pair of chopsticks in her hands nervously and closed her eyes silently. She could not help but pucker her lips.
"Zhaozhao, there's a grain of rice here." Shen Yao suppressed his laughter and said seriously.
Ji Zhao's face instantly turned red!
"Oh." Ji Zhao smiled awkwardly. Just as she was about to turn around, Shen Yao hugged her.
The nervous Ji Zhao subconsciously hugged his neck. Her watery almond-shaped eyes were misty like a deer in the forest, dazed and cute.
Shen Yao looked down at the person in his arms and gently pecked her lips like a dragonfly touching the water.
"You... why are you like this!" Ji Zhao could not help but punch his chest and mutter softly.
"Zhaozhao." Shen Yao suddenly leaned close to her ear and called out softly. That tone was too tempting—
Ji Zhao felt his heart tremble. "What... what's wrong?'
"I missed you," Shen Yao whispered as he gently bit her earlobe.
Just as Shen Yao was about to carry her back to the house, he heard an urgent knock on the door.
Ji Zhao, who was in his arms, nervously grabbed his lapels. "It's so late. Who would come?"
At that moment, Qin Minghong, who was carrying two jars of good wine, frowned in confusion.
This address should be correct!
Just as he was about to knock again, the courtyard door in front of him suddenly opened.
If he had not stabilized himself in time, he would have fallen to the ground!
"Shen Yao, it's Mid -Autumn Festival today. Shall we have a drink?" Qin Minghong smiled and raised the wine jar in his hand.
Qin Minghong was so excited that he did not even notice Shen Yao's expression that was darker than the night.
"Brother Qin?'
Ji Zhao did not expect the person to be Qin Minghong. She quickly asked, "It's so late. Why are you here?"
"It's a little sad to spend the Mid-Autumn Festival alone." Qin Minghong shrugged helplessly. Then, he smiled and said, 'That's why I came to disturb you. I didn't disturb you, right?"
'What do you think?" Shen Yao gritted his teeth and asked.
"Did I come at the wrong time?" Qin Minghong lowered his eyes in disappointment. 'Then I won't disturb you anymore..."
"Brother Qin, take a seat!" Ji Zhao smiled and took the two jars of wine from him. "Coincidentally, there are still some live shrimp in the kitchen. I'll make you drunken shrimp to try!'
Ji Zhao turned around and was about to go to the kitchen. When she passed by Shen Yao, she gently tugged at his sleeve and whispered, "Something's wrong with Brother Qin."
Shen Yao, who was full of grievances, pinched her chubby cheeks angrily and replied in a low voice, "Got it."
Ji Zhao walked into the kitchen and took out some live shrimp from the small tank
The Drunken Shrimp's recipe was very simple, but the prerequisite was that the live shrimp had to be rinsed a few more times. After washing them, she had to cut off the shrimp head, shrimp antennae, and shrimp legs.
She placed the processed shrimp on a plate, poured baijiuO over them, and then took a bowl and covered it.
Ji Zhao thought about it and decided to mix some sauce.
She took out a green onion and cut it into finger-length segments. Then, she began to mix the sauce.
At that moment, in the courtyard.
Shen Yao crossed his arms and leaned against the bamboo chair. He looked at Qin Minghong, who was drinking alone, with interest. He suddenly said, "Using alcohol to numb your worries will only make your worries worse."
Qin Minghong looked at him silently, his eyes filled with guilt. "It seems that I came at the wrong time?'
"And you still came?" Shen Yao retorted with a smile.
"Zhaozhao said that you're our good friend," Shen Yao interrupted him and said sincerely, "Although I don't know why you're drinking to drown your sorrows, drinking is harmful to your body and kidneys. You're not married yet. Don't ruin your body early and harm a kind girl."
Qin Minghong could not help but smile. After struggling for a while, he put down the wine pot in his hand.
"Zhaozhao said that she went to the residence to visit First Madam today and saw that the menu for your birthday banquet was inappropriate." Shen Yao's gaze was calm as he asked, "Are you so depressed now because of this?"
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Chapter 315: Take Care, I Won't See You Off
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Herlyee Translations
"I don't understand." After a long silence, Qin Minghong sighed softly. "l.
never wanted to compete with Mingyao for favor. In fact, I was very envious of Mingyao, but she still couldn't tolerate me. She even treated me as a thorn in her side. Now, Father is actually going to divorce her. I don't feel happy at all. I even feel a little depressed."
"Different positions mean you will have different thoughts. Since you 're not fated, why force it?" Shen Yao said slowly and softly, "Human nature is selfish. Why don't you think about it? If your mother was still alive, would you still expect Madam Liu to dote on you?"
Qin Minghong fell silent.
If his mother was still alive, he would definitely hate Madam Liu to the core, right?
"The eldest branch of the Qin family doesn't have offspring. The second branch only gave birth to you and Qin Mingyao," Shen Yao analyzed calmly. "In your stepmother's eyes, everything in the Qin family naturally has to fall into the hands of her biological son. Only then will she be at ease."
'Your uncle is a Rank 4 General and has many military achievements. He can even stand tall in front of the current emperor. It's a pity that he disappeared in the Battle of Fei River 16 years ago..." Shen Yao looked into his eyes and analyzed seriously, "Your aunt came from an illustrious family, but your stepmother didn't fix her own position. It's not strange that she ended up being divorced."
"Brother Qin, instead of being sad for someone unimportant, why don't you think about your future?'
A moment later, Qin Minghong looked at Shen Yao and raised his glass with a smile. "Listening to your words is better than studying for ten years."
'You flatter me." Shen Yao smiled. "It's getting late. Brother Qin, go back and rest early!"
"I still have one more question." Qin Minghong thought about it and asked, "If there comes a day when I can't be surnamed Qin anymore..."
"Family name is just a title," Shen Yao said very honestly. "If your surname is Zhou, Zhaozhao and I will call you Big Brother Zhou. If your surname is Wu, we will call you Big Brother Wu. Your surname is not important. What's important is that you are you.'
"I'm me?" Qin Minghong thought carefully about these words and then came to a realization. "Yes, I'm just me. What does my surname have to do with anything?"
"Goodbye." Seeing his enlightened expression, a faint smile finally appeared on Shen Yao's face.
In the kitchen, just as Ji Zhao was about to bring out the prepared Drunken Shrimp, Shen Yao suddenly walked in.
"Eh? Why did you come in?" Ji Zhao blinked and asked curiously, "Where's
Brother Qin?"
"He's gone back."
"Huh?" Ji Zhao was even more confused. "But he hasn't tasted the Drunken Shrimp yet, right? Is he in a better mood now?'
"He's fine." Shen Yao suddenly reached out to hold her shoulders. He lowered his head to look into her eyes and said aggrievedly, "I'm not fine."
'Why?"
'What do you think?"
Ji Zhao raised her eyebrows slightly and tiptoed to kiss his cheek. 'What about now? Are you feeling better? Big vinegar vat-"
"It's not enough-I' Shen Yao smiled gently. Catching her off guard, he picked her up and turned to return to the house.
The night breeze was slightly cool, and the candlelight flickered. The red waves of the quilt stirred under the continuous drizzle.
Again and again.
It was another night of passion, and it was already dawn.
When dawn broke, it was raining.
The sleepy Ji Zhao saw the man beside her and asked lazily, "Shen Yao, what time is it?'
"It's loam."
"Oh," Ji Zhao replied silently. She found a comfortable position in his arms and closed her eyes.
A moment later, she suddenly looked up. "It's already10am?! Aren't we going to the Qin Residence for a banquet today?"
"There's no need to go for the time being." Shen Yao played with a strand of black hair that fell on her shoulder and explained gently, "Brother Qin said last night that the birthday banquet has been canceled."
"Canceled? Why?"
"I heard that the second master of the Qin family wants to divorce his wife." Shen Yao tapped the tip of her nose affectionately. "Let's not talk about this. It's still raining outside. Why don't you sleep a little longer? Hmm?"
"Then will you accompany me?"
"Are you sure?" Shen Yao raised his eyebrows and looked at her. The light in his eyes was obvious.
"It's better not to..." Ji Zhao, who immediately admitted defeat, silently pulled the thin blanket over herself. "When I wake up, I want to eat shredded meat noodles."
"Okay."
When it was close to noon, the rain stopped.
Ji Zhao got up from the bed with difficulty. As she rubbed her sore waist, she cursed Shen Yao ten thousand times in her heart!
This man was simply a hungry wolf!
"Try it?" Shen Yao walked to her side with the bowl and chopsticks and said softly, "My cooking is not as good as yours, so you can only make do with it."
"It's already very fragrant! Ji Zhao praised generously when she smelled the fragrance of the bowl of shredded meat noodles.
Just as she was about to reach out to take the bowl and chopsticks, Shen Yao avoided her.
'Yes?"
"I'll feed you."
"Isn't this a little exaggerated?" Ji Zhao subconsciously blurted out.
'Why don't you try?'
Fifteen minutes later, Ji Zhao angrily handed the chopsticks to him.
"I'm not eating."
It was really embarrassing. She had never expected that the aftereffects of the couple's intercourse would be so strong that she could not even hold her chopsticks properly!
"It's all my fault. Zhaozhao, don't be angry, okay?" Shen Yao coaxed her gently. Then, he brought the bowl of noodles to her lips.
When Immortal Crane rushed to this courtyard, he saw the scene of the two of them being intimate.
"Master? Why are you here?" Ji Zhao welcomed him with a smile, but she was flicked by Immortal Crane!
Ji Zhao silently held her forehead and looked at him aggrievedly. 'Master, why did you do that?"
"To think that you still have me in your eyes as your master!" Immortal Crane poked her head angrily. "The two of you secretly moved out of the inn without telling me?"
Ji Zhao, who was in the wrong, silently shrunk her head and immediately admitted her mistake. "l know my mistake."
"Senior, this is not Zhaozhao's fault. It's my negligence." Shen Yao shielded Ji Zhao behind him with heartache and explained sincerely, "l originally wanted to tell you after we settled down. After all, this courtyard is a little simple and doesn't have the comfort of an inn."
"Hmph." Immortal Crane rolled his eyes at him. "Do you think I don't know what you're thinking? You did it on purpose!'
However, this punk was still too young!
He would not watch his good disciple be bullied by him!
"I left the inn in a hurry just now and didn't have time to eat lunch."
"Then what do you want to eat, Master? I'll make it for you," Ji Zhao quickly said. She stood up and was about to go to the kitchen, but her legs went soft and he almost fell to the ground.
Fortunately, Shen Yao quickly caught her.
'You can't even stand properly, why are you still cooking?" The Immortal Crane was angry and felt heartache. He pointed at Shen Yao and said angrily, "Go and cook another bowl of noodles!"
"Alright, please wait a moment.. '
********************************************
Chapter 316: Very Fair
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Herlyee Translations
Fifteen minutes later, Immortal Crane retracted his hand from Ji Zhao's pulse and his gaze darkened.
"Master, what's wrong?"
"Husband and wife's affairs are the harmonization of Yin and Yang. When the Yin is strong, the Yang is weak, and when the Yin is weak, the Yang is strong. Women are extremely Yin while men are extremely Yang." The Immortal Crane looked at her and said earnestly, "My good disciple, do you know when a woman should get married and have children?"
"Master, what exactly do you want to say..." Ji Zhao asked uncomfortably, "Don't beat around the bush. Just say it."
'You can 't have intercourse too often. Otherwise, it will be harmful to your body." Immortal Crane cleared his throat and explained softly, 'Moreover, with your current body, if you're pregnant, it will be very difficult later on. It might even affect your lifespan. If you want to have children, you have to recuperate first."
"Got it." Ji Zhao nodded silently and replied obediently.
When Shen Yao brought the second bowl of shredded meat noodles to the courtyard, Ji Zhao had already been chased back to her room by Immortal Crane to rest.
After settling the bowl of delicious shredded meat noodles, Immortal Crane warned Shen Yao again.
"In your heart, you must think that this old man is nosy." Immortal Crane looked into his eyes and said earnestly, "However, for the sake of my good disciple's health, this old man hopes that you can restrain yourself. Within two years, my good disciple shouldn't get pregnant."
"Thank you for your concern, Senior."
Shen Yao was not someone who did not know what was good for him.
Moreover, he knew that the Immortal Crane said this for Zhaozhao's sake.
The Second Madam of the Qin Family had been divorced by the Second Master of the Qin Family!
As soon as the news was out, rumors spread like wildfire.
However, Ji Zhao had no time to gossip. Instead, she had been looking for a suitable shop.
Within three days, she had visited no less than ten shops.
However, she did not find anything she liked.
"You've lost a lot of weight recently." Shen Yao filled a bowl with ginseng chicken soup and pushed it in front of the tired Ji Zhao. He comforted her softly, "I specially made ginseng chicken soup when I woke up in the morning. The temperature is just right now."
"Mm." Ji Zhao tilted her head and leaned on his shoulder. She closed her eyes tiredly and was a little discouraged. "It's really not easy to find a suitable shop in the prefecture! It's either the area is too small or the price is too high."
"Zhaozhao, why do you insist on not letting Qin Minghong participate this time?" Shen Yao asked softly.
"I want to own a restaurant that belongs to us," Ji Zhao replied softly.
"Although Brother Qin is someone we can befriend, when it comes to business, it's not the more the better. Otherwise, if there are disagreements in business in the future, wouldn't it hurt our friendship? Of course, there's another reason."
Ji Zhao thought for a moment, then lowered her voice and whispered into Shen Yao's ear, "A restaurant is the best place to gather information. When you become an official in the court in the future, it will definitely be useful."
"Silly girl." Shen Yao's heart ached and he was touched. He raised his hand and pinched her chin. He chuckled and asked, "Are you that confident in me?"
"Of course!" Ji Zhao nodded without hesitation. "After all, it's rare to see a gentleman as talented and knowledgeable as my husband."
'What if I fail again?" Shen Yao teased deliberately.
"No way!' Ji Zhao suddenly looked up at him with a determined gaze. "Shen Yao, do you dare to make a bet with me?'
"A bet?" Shen Yao raised his eyebrows with interest. "How do you want to bet?"
"Let's bet on your ranking in this provincial imperial examination. How about it?" Ji Zhao smiled and said, "I've asked around before. In the past years, only about 30 people in our Yunchuan Prefecture have been ranked on the honor roll. If they pass, they will be called examinees. The first place will be the Jieyuan, the second place will be the Yayuan, the third, fourth, and fifth place will be Jingkui, and the sixth place will be Yakui. Generally speaking, the examinees ranked in the top six will be highly regarded."
"Yes." Shen Yao nodded slightly in agreement.
"Then how about we bet on your ranking?" Ji Zhao rubbed her chin thoughtfully and finally said with a smile, "I bet you'll be in the top three!'
"If I win, you have to promise me three things. If I lose, I'll personally cook a table of your favorite delicacies. How about that?"
"This bet sounds..."
"Hm?" Ji Zhao silently raised her eyebrows and looked at him.
"That's very fair." Shen Yao, who was good at reading the mood, hurriedly nodded and said.
"That's more like it!" Ji Zhao put her hands on her hips smugly.
"Hurry up and drink the ginseng soup. It won't taste good when it's cold."
"Got it!"
At the end of August, Ji Zhao finally found a satisfactory shop.
"Madam Shen," Shopkeeper Qian said very honestly, 'The reason why this shop has been put on hold for more than half a year is because something bad happened here half a year ago."
"Oh?" Ji Zhao's curiosity was piqued. "Could it be that this shop is haunted?"
"Madam has heard?" Shopkeeper Qian was extremely surprised. "Since Madam knows about this, why are you still insisting on settling it?"
"I... just said it casually." Ji Zhao suddenly felt a layer of cold sweat on ber back.
"But Shopkeeper Qian, is this shop really haunted?'
"Actually, it's not really haunted," Shopkeeper Qian explained softly. 'This shop was originally a winery. The previous shopkeeper's surname was Ji. About three years ago, he came to our Yunchuan Prefecture and opened this winery.
However, the winery's business was not good. Half a year ago, Shopkeeper Ji was drunk and fell on his head. He passed away not long after. I had some friendship with him, so I helped him take care of his funeral."
"Madam, you saw it too. This shop has a good market entrance and the price is affordable. It's not like no one has come to ask about it before, but the people who took over the shop said that this shop is a little strange. Several nights, they saw a faceless monster half the height of a person wandering in the shop. Someone also invited an eminent monk to take a look. They said that there was a ferocious beast under the shop. As time passed, the shop became so desolate.'
"Faceless monster?" Ji Zhao was even more curious. "Then did anyone see what this faceless monster looked like?"
"I don't know." Shopkeeper Qian thought for a moment and persuaded,
"Madam, are you really going to buy this shop?'
"In this world, compared to the so-called ghosts, the human heart is the most terrifying." After a moment of silence, Ji Zhao said firmly, "l want this shop." Shopkeeper Qian did not expect Ji Zhao to be so courageous.
As dusk approached, Shopkeeper Qian transferred the deed to the shop and the deed to the house to Ji Zhao's name.
"Thank you, Shopkeeper Qian." Ji Zhao smiled gratefully. "When Spring Breeze Pavilion opens, I'll treat you to a drink.."