Chapter 291: Making a Fortune (2)
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
At present, she would only be safe if the two powerful sides kept each other in check.
She would give both sides 30% of the profits each and take 40% for herself. However, 40% was only in the production process. Compared to the profits they earned from retail sales, it was very low.
Hence, they would not make things too difficult for her.
Manager Liang frowned, and his gaze towards Lin Xiaoyue was already tinged with admiration.
He glanced at Zhou Shi, who was already deep in thought.
He knew very well that even though the Zhou Clan did not know about this matter yet, once Ruyi Restaurant invested in the company, the Zhou Clan would also invest sooner or later.
"Good! I'll tell the boss what you said." Manager Liang said.
Then, he chatted with Lin Xiaoyue for a while and finally gave her a 1,000 taels of silver before she left.
How did she get the money?
Of course, it was because Lin Xiaoyue said she was strapped for cash and that she needed money to start making the cabbages.
After leaving Ruyi Restaurant, Zhou Shi and Lin Xiaoyue boarded the ox-cart. Only then did they realize what just happened.
Zhou Shi came back to her senses and quickly asked Lin Xiaoyue to ride back to the Hei residence.
When they reached the place, Zhou Shi pulled Lin Xiaoyue into the house. She ignored the servants and directly brought her to her room.
"Yue'er, what's going on with Manager Liang?" Zhou Shi asked Lin Xiaoyue nervously.
She seemed to have understood something, but at the same time, she didn't.
The owner of Ruyi Restaurant, was actually willing to spend 5,000 taels of silver to buy 30% of Yue'er's chili business.
Also, he didn't even ask for the price and wanted to buy all of them.
However, Yue 'er did not agree. She only promised to give all the spicy cabbages this year to Ruyi Restaurant and half of next year's to the Zhou Trading Company.
She roughly knew the reason for this. It was because Yue'er had limited number of chilis in her hands and could not make a large amount of spicy cabbage.
If Ruyi Restaurant and the Zhou Trading Company were to split it this year, they probably wouldn't be able to get much each.
Although she wanted to cooperate with Yue'er, she did not represent the Zhou Trading Company. More importantly, she did not have the right to.
What was Yue'er thinking?
Lin Xiaoyue was prepared to talk to Zhou Shi about this.
Lin Xiaoyue held Zhou Shi's hand and explained the situation to her.
"Thank you for today. Without you with me, I'm afraid 1'11 get into trouble."
Lin Xiaoyue told Zhou Shi about her thoughts and plans.
After Zhou Shi heard this, her eyes widened, and she was extremely shocked.
"What Ruyi Restaurant is interested in is not the 30% share, but the goods produced by the workshop."
"Take the spicy cabbage for example. Even if we sell it to Ruyi Restaurant at 10 wen per catty, the profit will only be 6 or 7 wen."
"But if you sell it as a dish or seasoning, the value is greater. We can sell it at 20 to 30 wen per catty. The profit would be much higher."
"They only want to control me, the source of production."
Lin Xiaoyue looked at Zhou Shi.
"Since the Ruyi Restaurant is optimistic about our chili business, the Zhou Trading Company will definitely be interested."
"You might as well talk to your father when you return home this time and ask him for help."
"Get the Zhou Trading Company to pay the 5,000 taels of silver. Then, you can promise to give them half of the supply at the same price we sell to Ruyi Restaurant, but tell them to give you 30% of the profit. They should agree."
The Ruyi Restaurant and the Zhou Trading Company would each hold 30% of the shares.
With these two parties around, she was safe.
There was no need to worry that there would be a fourth party interfering in this business, because the two giants would never allow it.
Hehe, speaking of which, she did help out by letting these two big shots cooperate, right?
Zhou Shi's eyes lit up.
Asking the Zhou Trading Company to give her money, and she takes the profit?
"Yue'er, will it work?" Previously, she thought that her husband had made a lot of money by selling a few shops.
Now that she had met Yue'er, why did she feel like this was...more profitable than selling a shop? Not only would she earn more, but she also didn't have to spend any money.
If this really worked, in just a few days, she would have 5,000 taels..
Chapter 292: Making a Fortune (3)
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
"Yes, just tell him what 1 said."
Regardless of whether the Zhou Trading Company was interested in the spicy cabbages, after hearing that the Ruyi Restaurant was willing to pay such a large sum of money for it, they wouldn't be able to ignore such a good opportunity that came knocking on their door.
Lin Xiaoyue thought for a moment and said, "bring the jar of spicy cabbage home and let them try it."
Zhou Shi nodded.
"Sure!"
"In addition, don't forget to mention that the owner will be in Daishi Village in three days. At that time, it would be best to get the people from the Zhou Trading Company to come together so that everyone could talk face to face."
With this piece of news, the Zhou Trading Company would definitely come knocking.
As long as he came, this matter was almost certain.
"Okay!" Zhou Shi quickly nodded.
Lin Xiaoyue gave a few more instructions to Zhou Shi before they split up.
Zhou Shi went back to her maiden home to look for Master Zhou, and then she went to look for Third Master Zhou for workers.
Lin Xiaoyue first went to the Jin Grocery Store to talk to Mr. Jin.
Other than picking up the plates for the eatery, the most important thing was to buy and order some jars.
Mr. Jin was happy to receive Lin Xiaoyue's order.
"Please get them ready as soon as possible. 1 need this batch of goods very urgently." Lin Xiaoyue said.
Manager Liang gave her 1,000 taels of silver, so she could start the operation once she returned.
Before the workshop was built, they could use her front yard.
It should not be a problem to get more than ten workers to work there.
"Alright, don't worry. The goods will be delivered to your residence in five days! 1 won't delay your matters!"
Lin Xiaoyue nodded and gave Mr. Jin a few more instructions before leaving after paying the deposit.
Lin Xiaoyue went to the dock after she took the plates to the eatery.
Jiang Dahe was indeed there.
Lin Xiaoyue told Jiang Dahe about the workshop.
Jiang Dahe was overjoyed when he heard that. He immediately said that he would get workers to the Liu family's residence tomorrow to prepare for the construction of the workshop.
Then, Lin Xiaoyue returned to town.
She went to buy salt and glutinous rice flour.
She then went to the bank to exchange for silver notes, silver coins, and copper coins before returning to Daishi Village.
When she returned to the Liu family, Lin Xiaoyue brought Liu Shi to the backyard and told her about her plan.
When Liu Shi learned that her daughter was actually going to work with the owner of Ruyi Restaurant and possibly the Zhou Trading Company, she was both surprised and happy.
Lin Xiaoyue took out the hundred silver pieces and copper coins that she had exchanged in town.
Then, she took out two silver notes worth 100 taels.
"The 200 silver notes are what I owe you. The remaining 100 taels is for you to buy the cabbages."
Ruyi Restaurant gave 5,000 taels of silver for 30% of the business. She probably wouldn't need to spend all 5,000 taels of silver, so she would keep the remaining.
If the Zhou Trading Company also invested in the business, it would be another 5,000 taels of silver. Hehe, she would get rich so quickly!
When Liu Shi learned that her daughter could earn a lot of money this time, she did not refuse and happily accepted the money.
"Isn't 100 taels too much?"
They had been buying cabbages for the past two days at the price of 1 wen per catty. 100 taels meant that they could buy 10,000 catties.
"You don't have to spend it all. I gave you more, just in case."
Lin Xiaoyue looked at Liu Shi.
"Next, we'll buy cabbages from our village. If the quantity is small, it would be dozens or hundreds of catties. We could just ask everyone to send them over directly. If they have more than 200 catties, they can give us a note. We'll then give them a date and collect the cabbages from the field. Try to get at least 2,000 catties of cabbage every day."
"I'll go to the village chief's house later and ask him to help us recruit more than 10 people to help us make spicy cabbage."
"So many? Erya, Aunt Jiang and her family, plus the two of us, there's already quite a lot of manpower!"
Lin Xiaoyue smiled.
"Let them deal with the stuff in the eatery and collect the chilis. There is no need for them to make the spicy cabbages."
"It's not easy to process 2,000 catties of cabbage a day. Ten people might not be enough."
"We need three people to pick and wash the vegetables. Then, one person is responsible for cutting the cabbage into pieces, two for marinating the cut cabbage with salt, and three for spreading the sauce and sealing it. That makes nine people."
"In addition, someone needs to help process the chili and turn it into chili powder. We need two more people for this."
Lin Xiaoyue pondered for a moment and realized that she had to recruit at least eleven people.
"Why don't we make the chili powder ourselves?" Liu Shi suddenly looked at
Lin Xiaoyue.
Lin Xiaoyue could clearly see the worry in her eyes.
Lin Xiaoyue smiled. She was quite happy that her mother was worried about this..
Chapter 293: The Workers are Here (1)
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
"It's okay. The workers can make the chili powder. We'll make the sauce ourselves."
Liu Shi paused.
"Oh, I asked Zhou Shi to get the workers for me. With the contract in hand, we won't be afraid that they might do something bad." Lin Xiaoyue explained.
Liu Shi's eyes widened.
"You bought someone again?"
Lin Xiaoyue looked a little embarrassed to hear the word "again".
"Uh...mom, the purchase this time is different from before. This time, it's just to serve you and help with the family business."
Liu Shi's expression changed slightly.
"Why would I need a servant?" She muttered.
Lin Xiaoyue smiled and grabbed Liu Shi's arm.
"Why not? We didn't have enough money in the past. Now that your daughter has money, it's time for you to enjoy life."
"Besides, we need reliable and capable helpers to run the family business, right?"
Seeing that Liu Shi was no longer resisting, Lin Xiaoyue said, "mom, don't worry. I asked Zhou Shi to help me find a family of servants. There are six or seven people in the family."
"The wife will serve you, and the husband will be our housekeeper. If there is a boy of suitable age, he can be Qing'er and Xiaozhi's servant. The others will stay at home to help."
Liu Shi nodded.
She thought that her daughter's arrangement was quite reasonable.
"There are more people in the house now. I was thinking of expanding the backyard for the new servants to live in."
There were still three empty rooms in the house. Actually, they could stay there, but Lin Xiaoyue did not want to make such an arrangement.
She now had money in her hands and was preparing to build a workshop. Why not build everything at once?
Liu Shi glanced at Lin Xiaoyue, sighed, and did not stop her.
It was useless to persuade her daughter when she had made a decision.
Moreover, it would indeed be difficult to live in a house with six or seven people.
If they gave all the empty rooms in the house to the servants, what would happen if there were guests in the house?
Iler daughter and son-in-law were getting more and more successful, so there might be many guests who would stay over in the future.
Lin Xiaoyue talked to Liu Shi for a while more before she went to cook.
After dinner, Lin Xiaoyue went to the village chief's house.
When the village chief learned that Lin Xiaoyue was not only looking for people to build houses and workshops, but also looking for help, he was very excited.
"After you build this workshop, there will be more work opportunities for people in our village."
Lin Xiaoyue smiled.
"There might be more work next year. This year, 1 only have half a month to make spicy cabbage."
"Haha, it will get better!" The village chief smiled.
"I also heard about you collecting cabbages. It's all thanks to you that we didn't have to give the excess cabbage in the field to the pigs."
"There are a lot of cabbages on the market now. It's very difficult to sell them even at a penny per catty. It's rare for you to buy them at a high price."
The village chief suddenly thought of something and looked at Lin Xiaoyue.
"But...do you really need so much cabbage?"
Lin Xiaoyue nodded.
"To tell you the truth, Ruyi Restaurant has already booked all the spicy cabbages that I want to make this year. Moreover, they have invested in my business, so the demand will be even greater next year."
Lin Xiaoyue's eyes flashed with hesitation, then she looked at the village chief.
"There's something I didn't want to mention to you so early. However, since I mentioned it today, I'll just say it."
"Tell me." The village chief looked at Lin Xiaoyue with a serious expression.
Lin Xiaoyue smiled and signaled the village chief not to be nervous.
Then, she said, "if I want to continue this spicy cabbage business in the future, it's definitely impossible for my family to grow it ourselves. In our village, there are many families with land. I just want to ask if everyone is willing to help me plant cabbages."
"A grown cabbage can weigh up to 3 catties. Then, I'll buy them from everyone at a price of 1 wen per catty. One cabbage will be about 3 wen."
"We can plant cabbages in the spring, summer, autumn and other seasons. The income may not be less than that of selling other crops."
The village chief paused, and then his eyes immediately lit up.
Not only that, it's even better than selling other crops!
It was more cost-effective to harvest the same crop for three seasons!
"Yue'er, are you serious?" The village chief looked at Lin Xiaoyue excitedly.
This was a great thing for the village! If this could really be done, every household in Daishi Village would benefit!
Chapter 294: The Workers are Here (2)
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
Lin Xiaoyue smiled. "Of course."
"Three days later, the owner of Ruyi Restaurant will come to my house to discuss the collaboration. There was also a high probability that someone from the Zhou Trading Company would come over."
"If you're free, you can come to my house to listen in."
"If we reach an agreement, I'll sign a contract with you and reserve all the cabbages in Daishi Village."
"We can then discuss our plans for the coming year before winter."
The village chief's eyes were filled with excitement.
"Good! Then I'll meet the boss with you three days later!"
Lin Xiaoyue smiled and nodded.
A village with over 100 mu of land would cost 2 to 3,000 taels of silver.
Moreover, one had to wait for someone willing to sell.
After buying the manor, she needed someone to look after it, and hiring farmers was not easy.
Cabbage was the most common crop in this era. It was better to let the villagers help grow it. When the time came, they could just buy them from them. It could save a lot of trouble.
Daishi Village was a large village. The land was close to 1,000 mu. It was much larger than an ordinary village.
By then, even if only half of the villagers helped grow cabbages, they would not have to worry about the coming year.
If she was worried, she could go to Shangyang Village and talk to the village chief about it.
She was confident that Shangyang Village would be happy to work with her.
Of course, for this kind of win-win situation, her priority was still Daishi Village, where her family was located.
Lin Xiaoyue discussed more details with the village chief again before she left.
After leaving the village chief's house, Lin Xiaoyue went to Carpenter Sun's house.
After that, she went to Craftsman Li Mie's house.
She contracted Li Mie for a whole year.
It was to prepare for the chilies in the manor next year. At present, the family did not lack tools to make spicy cabbage.
Because there were not many cold cakes at home now, after the wooden buckets were empty, they could be used to make spicy cabbage.
Lin Xiaoyue only returned home after she had ordered the goods from Li Mie.
Not long after she reached home, Zhou Shi arrived.
Other than the coachman, there were actually seven other people who came with her.
They were the servants that Zhou Shi had bought for the Liu family.
"I bought them according to your request." Zhou Shi said to Lin Xiaoyue.
"Please introduce yourselves." As she spoke, she looked at the few people standing there.
The old man came forward and bowed to Liu Shi and Lin Xiaoyue.
"Hello Madam and Miss. I am Zhao Fu. This is my wife, Chen Shi. My eldest son, Zhao Kang. My eldest daughter-in-law, Ma Shi. My grandson, Zhao Dabao. My second son, Zhao Qiang, and my daughter, Zhao Shanshan."
Liu Shi was a little surprised. She felt that although this person was a slave, he was composed.
Lin Xiaoyue nodded.
"What can you do?" She asked Zhao Fu.
"I used to be a housekeeper. Chen Shi is good at kitchen work. Zhao Kang and Zhao Qiang used to follow the family around as servants and coachmen. Ma Shi and Zhao Shanshan are good at needlework."
Lin Xiaoyue was surprised.
"Is anyone literate?" She asked again.
"I, Zhao Kang, Zhao Qiang, and Zhao Shanshan are all literate. My grandson
Zhao Dabao had just learned the Three Character Classic."
Lin Xiaoyue was stunned.
She did not expect all the young ones to be literate.
Glancing at the youngest Zhao Dabao, Lin Xiaoyue saw that the child was standing obediently beside Ma Shi with his head lowered.
"Not bad." He was about the same age as Qing'er, so he arranged for him to be his assistant. He could go to town to take care of Qing'er.
"How old are you?" Lin Xiaoyue asked Zhao Dabao.
Zhao Dabao bowed respectfully.
"Miss, 1 am ten years old."
Lin Xiaoyue nodded and looked at Zhao Fu again.
"Why were you sold by the previous master?" Lin Xiaoyue asked again.
This family of seven was neatly dressed and polite.
Zhao Fu especially, did not look like he came from slavery.
Zhao Fu froze.
Then, he bowed to Lin Xiaoyue.
"It's because of me! 1 offended the previous mistress and implicated the whole family." Suddenly, Zhao Shanshan rushed forward.
"Presumptuous, retreat!" Before Lin Xiaoyue could say anything, Zhao Fu had already reprimanded Zhao Shanshan sternly.
Zhao Shanshan's body trembled. She looked at Zhao Fu in fear and retreated..
Chapter 295: The Workers are Here (3)
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
It was also at this moment that Lin Xiaoyue saw Zhao Shanshan's face.
This girl had beautiful facial features.
"Miss, please forgive me, 1 should have stopped her." Zhao Fu quickly bowed to Lin Xiaoyue.
Lin Xiaoyue waved her hand.
"Tell me, what exactly happened?" She looked at Zhao Fu.
"Although Zhou Shi has bought you, 1 don't want to keep people with impure thoughts around me."
Zhao Fu was startled.
He quickly cupped his hands at Lin Xiaoyue.
"We were originally servants of the Zheng family in Nan'an County. The master had taken a fancy to my daughter, but my daughter did not give in, causing him to resent her and madam to be suspicious. After that, the master went to the west and madam was in charge. She wanted to sell my daughter."
Zhao Fu's voice was tinged with sadness. "I pleaded for mercy and implicated my entire family. In the end, my entire family was sold to Zhou's Dental Clinic."
"Fortunately, 1 have a slight friendship with the person-in-charge of the dental clinic in Nan'an County, so my family was not separated."
Zhao Fu bowed to Lin Xiaoyue again.
"Madam Hei went to Third Master Zhou's house to get servants, and 1 happened to be at Third Master Zhou's residence. 1 thought it was a good place to go. That was why 1 recommended us to Madam Hei and begged Third Master Zhou to come to the Liu family."
A young lady was in charge of the Liu family.
The son-in-law was married into the family and he and his nephew were saved by the Young Miss, so he wouldn't do anything out of line.
Also, the two Young Masters were still young, and they were studying in the academy. His grandson could go with them to be their assistants, and in the future, he would also be literate.
Zhou Shi nodded at Lin Xiaoyue, indicating that Zhao Fu was telling the truth.
Her third cousin was planning to have the family serve him.
However, she came before his third cousin could say anything and bumped into them.
Zhao Fu was smart. After hearing about the situation, he took the initiative to request to come to the Liu family.
Her third cousin wanted to do the Liu family a favor because of the spicy cabbage matter. That was also in his favor.
Lin Xiaoyue's lips curled up.
"Since that's the case, you can stay."
"Thank you, Miss!" Zhao Fu quickly bowed.
The Zhao family members hurriedly followed suit and bowed.
Lin Xiaoyue smiled.
"There are not many rules in our family. If you do well, 1 will definitely not treat you unfairly."
Lin Xiaoyue looked at Zhao Fu.
"Uncle Fu, you used to be the Zheng family's housekeeper, so you must have a lot of experience. Although the Liu family is small in numbers, we have some business to take care of."
"Since you have joined the Liu family, you are family too. How about 1 make you the housekeeper of the Liu family?"
Zhao Fu was delighted.
"Thank you Miss, 1 will definitely do my best to repay you."
Lin Xiaoyue smiled and looked at Zhao Kang and Zhao Qiang.
"Zhao Kang, Zhao Qiang, you two come with me and help me run errands and take care of the family business. If you perform well, you will be rewarded."
Zhao Kang and Zhao Qiang looked at each other with joy in their eyes.
"Thank you, Miss!" They hurriedly bowed.
Lin Xiaoyue then looked at Chen Shi and Ma Shi.
"Chen Shi, in the future, you will serve my mother and work in the kitchen with Ma Shi."
"Yes!" The two of them hurriedly bowed.
"Zhao Dabao, you'll be Qing'er's errand boy in the future. When Qing'er goes back to the academy, you will go with him to take care of his daily needs."
One could bring an assistant to the academy, and she would be able to arrange for Zhao Dabao to go as long as she paid extra accommodation fees.
"Thank you, Miss!" Zhao Dabao quickly went forward and bowed.
Hearing that he could go to the Academy, his face was full of joy.
His father had taught him the Three Character Classic, so he had learned it long ago.
He wanted to learn more, but his father didn't have the time to teach him.
Although he couldn't enter the academy to listen to the teacher's lecture like Qing'er, he could eavesdrop outside the classroom.
There was not much to do in the academy, so he had plenty of time to learn.
On the way here, he had heard from Madam Hei that Qing'er was twelve years old and was already studying in Class 3A of the Qingyun Academy. It was very likely that he would participate in the county examination next year.
Although the young master's surname wasn't Liu, his status wasn't any lower than the young master's.
If he passed next year, his status in the Liu family would probably be even higher.
If he served him well, he would have a good life too.
The other members of the Zhao family were also very happy for Zhao Dabao.
Lin Xiaoyue's gaze swept across everyone's faces before finally looking at Zhao Shanshan.
"Zhao Shanshan..." she said.
Zhao Shanshan was timid and quickly went forward and bowed to her.
"Yes, Miss!"
"Raise your head." Lin Xiaoyue glanced at Zhao Shanshan from head to toe.
The members of the Zhao family became nervous.
Zhao Shanshan shivered and raised her head.
Lin Xiaoyue finally saw Zhao Shanshan's face clearly this time.
Her eyebrows were curved, her almond-shaped eyes were filled with love, and there was a mole under her left eye, making her look charming and flirtatious..
Chapter 296: Success (1)
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
With this appearance, it was no wonder that she attracted the covetous eyes of the Zheng family's master and the suspicion of the madam.
Under the nervous gazes of the Zhao family, Lin Xiaoyue smiled lightly.
"Not bad."
Hearing this, the Zhao family members felt uneasy.
"How old are you?" Lin Xiaoyue asked.
Zhao Shanshan's heart was pounding.
"Sixteen."
She replied calmly.
Lin Xiaoyue nodded.
"You're even older than me by a year." She muttered.
Well, her current body anyway.
Zhao Shanshan was stunned.
On the way here, she listened to Madam Hei talk about Lin Xioayue with her family.
She was truly the role model for women in her heart. She had supported the entire Liu family with her own strength and changed the fate of the Liu family.
Lin Xiaoyue curled her lips and looked at Zhao Shanshan. "Since you're not willing to give yourself to the Zheng family's master, I assume you have a backbone. I'll give you a chance to work by my side and learn our family's business. When the time is right, you can even be in charge."
Zhao Shanshan was shocked and joy flashed in her eyes.
"However, from now on, you are a member of the Liu family in life and death. You are not allowed to leave the Liu family for the rest of your life."
Zhao Shanshan was stunned.
She was a slave. If her owner did not release her, she would not be able to leave.
The Liu family had brought her whole family and entrusted them with heavy responsibilities. The probability of letting them leave was not high.
Therefore, not leaving the Liu family for the rest of her life was nothing to her. Zhao Shanshan was excited. Was the Miss going to coach her?
In the future, did she have any hope of becoming someone like Miss and Madam Hei?
Zhao Shanshan wanted to agree immediately, but she suddenly had a thought.
She forced herself to calm down.
Then, she respectfully bowed.
"Yes, but I have a condition." Zhao Shanshan suppressed the emotions in her heart and said in a steady voice.
As soon as he said that, Zhao Fu immediately reprimanded her.
"How dare you!"
However, before Zhao Fu could finish his words, Lin Xiaoyue had already reached out and stopped him from continuing.
"Tell me." She looked at Zhao Shanshan.
She was quite interested in Zhao Shanshan.
She dared to resist her fate despite being a slave in this era.
Although her fate was a little tragic and she had implicated her entire family, she admired her courage.
"I am willing to serve you and the Liu family for the rest of my life. But please..."
Lin Xiaoyue looked at Zhao Shanshan and waited for her to continue.
Zhao Shanshan took a deep breath, "but please allow me to be by your side. I will not get married!"
The moment these words came out, the Zhao members were greatly shocked.
"What nonsense are you talking about! Miss..." Chen Shi immediately went forward and pulled Zhao Shanshan away.
As a servant, the best outcome was to become a concubine.
Otherwise, she would marry another servant in the residence and give birth to a child who was also a slave.
Only a few could save up enough silver to redeem themselves and return to freedom.
However, a large family like theirs who served their masters closely, it was almost impossible for all of them to regain their freedom.
She and her husband's only hope was to serve the family well. They hoped that she would remember their loyalty and let the younger generation go.
Her daughter was too stubborn. Perhaps she would be able to live freely after she got out of slavery.
But now, she wanted to stay and not marry for the rest of her life.
Did this girl know what this meant to a woman?
Lin Xiaoyue looked at Chen Shi, and she fell silent.
A pained expression flashed across Zhao Fu's face, but he still reprimanded his wife, "retreat!"
A hint of fear flashed across Chen Shi's eyes. Under Zhao Shanshan's comforting gaze, she retreated.
She saw the warning in her husband's eyes.
They were slaves and had just arrived at the new master's house.
If the family did not like them, the consequences were not something they could bear.
Lin Xiaoyue smiled and said, "heh, never getting married. That's too serious."
"How about this? I'll allow you the freedom of marriage and promise not to force you to marry someone else."
Zhao Shanshan's eyes lit up. Then, she knelt down in front of Lin Xiaoyue.
"Thank you Miss, 1 will do my best to repay Miss!" Then, she kowtowed three times.
When the Zhao family saw this, they heaved a sigh of relief.
As long as she didn't promise not to get married.
If Shanshan could really help the Miss support the family business in the future, no one would dare to look down on her even though she was a slave..
Chapter 297: Success (2)
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
Perhaps, they could rely on Shanshan in the future...
"Get up." Lin Xiaoyue went to help Zhao Shanshan up.
Zhao Shanshan was flattered.
Lin Xiaoyue smiled and retreated.
"After you enter the Liu family, you will all be members of the Liu family. If you do your job well, I won't treat you unfairly. But if you have bad intentions..."
Lin Xiaoyue's voice turned cold. "Hehe, better not let me find out..."
Everyone in the Zhao family lowered their heads and tensed up.
Previously, she looked quite amiable just a while ago, but at the moment, she was so scary.
"I won't resell any of our servants. It's either I free you, or feed you to the wolves."
Ma Shi's legs went soft. If it wasn't for Chen Shi supporting her, she would have almost lost her footing.
At this moment, the members of the Zhao family were terrified. They felt as if a knife was hanging in their hearts.
"Yes, Miss!" Zhao Fu was the first to regain his senses and bowed respectfully to Lin Xiaoyue.
"Yes, Miss!" The others followed suit.
Lin Xiaoyue nodded.
She turned around and looked at Liu Shi, who was still in shock.
She reached out and pulled Liu Shi's arm.
Liu Shi subconsciously flinched, but she remembered that this was her daughter and gave her her arm.
Her daughter's aura just now was too scary. It was as if she had really killed someone.
Sigh, her daughter had suffered a lot previously. She had to treat her daughter better in the future...
"Mom, is there anything else you want to say?" Lin Xiaoyue asked Liu Shi with a smile.
She was very satisfied. Her mother was clearly afraid of her just now, but she quickly adjusted her state.
"Whatever you said was enough," Liu Shi patted the back of Lin Xiaoyue's hand.
Lin Xiaoyue smiled at Liu Shi before looking at the Zhao family again.
"Uncle Fu and Shanshan, stay here. The others..."
Lin Xiaoyue looked at Liu Shi again. "Mom, please take them to their room."
"Alright." Liu Shi replied.
"Follow me." She said to the Zhao family.
Then, except for Zhao Fu and Zhao Shanshan, everyone else followed Liu Shi.
After the others left, Lin Xiaoyue looked at Zhao Shanshan again.
"Shanshan, check what else you all need. Then report it to Uncle Fu."
They actually didn't bring any luggage.
"Yes, Miss!" Zhao Shanshan hurriedly bowed.
Lin Xiaoyue glanced at Zhao Shanshan's clothes.
Their clothes looked neat, but upon closer inspection, they were actually dirty.
"I will buy each of you two sets of inner clothes and two sets of working clothes." Lin Xiaoyue thought for a while and said, "1'11 also buy winter coats for each of you.
"Thank you, Miss!" Zhao Shanshan's face lit up with joy as she hurriedly bowed to Lin Xiaoyue.
Then, she thought for a moment and said, "Miss, ready-made clothes are too expensive. My sister-in-law and 1 are good at embroidery. We can buy fabric and make them ourselves!""
Lin Xiaoyue's lips curled up.
"In that case, I'll let Ma Shi make the clothes. As for you, you'll stay by my side to serve me."
Zhao Shanshan's face lit up again.
"Yes, Miss!"
Lin Xiaoyue smiled, "go get a pen and paper from Madam and write down the things you need. While it's still early, get your big brother to go to town later and buy the stuff."
"Yes, Miss," Only then did Zhao Shanshan leave.
Zhao Fu couldn't help but smile when he saw his daughter so happy.
"Uncle Fu."
Zhao Fu turned and quickly bowed.
"Yes, Miss."
Lin Xiaoyue smiled. "There's no need to be so reserved."
Then, she took out 100 taels of silver and the key to the door.
"You will be the housekeeper and accountant for the time being."
Zhao Fu took the money and keys.
When he saw the amount of money, he was shocked. At the same time, he knew that this was a test for him.
"You will be in charge of our family's expenses. If you don't have enough money, just ask me."
"Yes, Miss!"
"In addition, I will implement allowances in the future. Madam's monthly allowance is 20 taels, the Master and I...forget it. Young Master gets 400 wen, Qing'er gets 3 taels. Shanshan gets 4 taels, you get 3 taels, Zhao Kang and Zhao Qiang get 2 taels each while Chen Shi, Ma Shi and Dabao get 1 tael each."
She would give her mother 20 taels of silver every month as savings..
Chapter 298: Success (3)
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
As for Xiaozhi, he would eat at home in the morning and evening, and only eat at the Academy or outside the Academy at noon. 400 wen a month was more than enough.
He was too young and she was worried that he would spend too much.
As for Qing'er, she had previously given him a monthly allowance of 2 taels of silver. However, he was sensible and might have to participate in the examination next year. It would not hurt to give him more.
Anyway, he wouldn't spend it recklessly. There was a high chance that he would save it up.
Only the servants were left. Even if she was harsh and did not give them any money, no one would dare to say anything since she bought them.
However, she felt that it was unnecessary.
After all, the servants of wealthy families who sold themselves would also receive a monthly salary. It was just that the monthly salary was not that high. After all, they lived and ate in the owner's house.
Anyway, she had money now, so there was no need for her to be so mean.
She was prepared to train them up.
Zhao Fu was surprised.
They were servants, but their monthly salary was actually higher than the Young Masters.
It was understandable.
After all, the Liu family had few people.
"Yes." Zhao Fu replied, feeling quite happy.
When Old Master Zheng was around, other than Dabao, they all had monthly salaries.
However, ever since Old Master Zheng passed away, First Master and First Madam took charge of the family. The eldest Miss said that with the Old Master gone, the family's income would be reduced, so they would not give out monthly salaries.
They had to buy the things that the master should have bought for the servants.
In the end, the little money saved by them was all gone.
After that, when their entire family was sold, the little money left was all taken away by First Madam.
The only belongings they had were the clothes that they were wearing.
Fortunately, the weather was not as hot these days. In addition, it had not been long since they left the Zheng family. Otherwise, they would not have been able to look as neat as they did to meet their new mistress.
Lin Xiaoyue looked at Zhao Fu.
"You should go too." She pretended not to see the smile on Zhao Fu's face.
"Yes, Miss." Only then did Zhao Fu leave.
After Zhao Fu left, Zhou Shi smiled and walked towards Lin Xiaoyue.
He grabbed Lin Xiaoyue's hand and led her to the backyard.
"Yue'er, I'm really impressed! You've used both kindness and toughness to control them."
Zhou Shi pulled Lin Xiaoyue into the room and then sat down by the bed.
"Hehe, don't flatter me." Lin Xiaoyue smiled and said to Zhou Shi.
"Did anyone from the Zhou Trading Company respond?" She looked at Zhou Shi nervously.
This was the most important thing.
Although she felt that she was confident about this matter. She was not 100% sure.
If the Zhou Trading Company didn't intervene, Ruyi Restaurant wouldn't be so easy to deal with.
She didn't want to earn a few thousand taels of silver and hand over the chili and spicy cabbage recipes.
Madam Zhou looked at Lin Xiaoyue and smiled. "What do you think?" She looked like she was teasing Lin Xiaoyue.
Lin Xiaoyue was anxious.
"Aiya, don't tease me! Tell me!" Lin Xiaoyue felt her heart skip a beat.
"Of course it worked!" Zhou Shi smiled.
Lin Xiaoyue was delighted.
"Thank you!" Lin Xiaoyue gave her a bear hug. Zhou Shi was surprised.
Then, she quickly regained her senses and patted Lin Xiaoyue's back with a smile.
She thought to himself, "she must have been worried about this all along."
"Quickly tell me everything that happened after you returned to your mother's house. I want to hear all the details." Lin Xiaoyue smiled brightly.
"Sure." Zhou Shi nodded.
She then told Lin Xiaoyue everything.
It turned out that after Lin Xiaoyue left the Hei residence, Zhou Shi took the spicy cabbage and asked the servants to ride the carriage back to the Zhou family.
Then, she told Old Master Zhou about the situation.
Old Master Zhou was very shocked after hearing this. After asking Zhou Shi, he tasted the spicy cabbage.
Then, after a moment of hesitation, he took her to see Third Master Zhou.
After that, Third Master Zhou also tried the spicy cabbage. He even asked the chef to stir-fry some shredded pork with the spicy cabbage.
After hearing about the details and tasting the spicy cabbage, Third Master Zhou immediately said that he would visit the Liu family in three days.
After that, Zhou Shi mentioned to Third Master Zhou that the Liu family wanted to buy some workers.
At this moment, Zhao Fu, who was standing beside Third Master Zhou, volunteered him and his family.
When Third Master Zhou heard that, he agreed in order to show his sincerity..
Chapter 299: Admiration (1)
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
"So, this family was given to you by my cousin! You didn't have to spend a single cent!" Zhou Shi said with a smile.
More than half of them were literate. If they were sold, it would cost more than 4.00 taels.
Lin Xiaoyue smiled.
"Then when we meet, I have to thank Third Master Zhou!" She smiled.
"Yes! He is very interested in your spicy cabbage! He's different from us. He's from the main Zhou family. Although he came to Qingshi Town because he was demoted, if he performed well, he could be transferred back at any time."
"This time, I see that he wants to use your spicy cabbage business to make a comeback and return to the capital." Zhou Shi lowered her voice and said to Lin Xiaoyue.
Lin Xiaoyue's eyes lit up.
"If we succeed, we and Third Master Zhou will be able to achieve mutual success." She smiled.
"Yes." Zhou Shi smiled and nodded.
Then, she gave Lin Xiaoyue a mysterious smile.
Lin Xiaoyue was a little puzzled.
Just as she was about to ask, she saw Zhou Shi pick up the wooden box that she had been holding in her hand.
"This is from my father. Inside were the land deeds of the manor in Zhou Village, as well as the contracts for the workers in the manor." Zhou Shi said as she handed the wooden box to Lin Xiaoyue.
Lin Xiaoyue was shocked.
"How much does he want?" She asked hurriedly.
Zhou Shi laughed.
"This is a gift! And my father gave it to you willingly!"
Lin Xiaoyue was shocked.
Zhou Shi then said, "firstly, it's to thank you for helping his daughter. Secondly, he's grateful that you helped the Zhou family."
Lin Xiaoyue was a little confused.
She thought of this to help her sister-in-law save money for the investment. It could barely be considered as "helping", but how could that be considered helping the Zhou family?
Zhou Shi saw through Lin Xiaoyue's doubts and smiled, answering her doubts, "my cousin has decided not to report the chili business to the main family for the time being. When the business started, even if they knew about it, they would still let him be involved."
"My father is quite reputable in Qingshi Town. If my cousin doesn't report this to the main family, my father will get a share of the profits." "When they find out in the future, the business will be completely handed over to my cousin to manage. My father can also continue to work with him."
"Anyway, my father said that the Zhou family is now connected to my cousin. If he could use the chili business to make a comeback, his future would be bright. Our family will also benefit."
Zhou Shi looked at the wooden box in Lin Xiayue's hand.
"These things were given to me by my father after I mentioned the manor to him. At that time, my four brothers and sisters-in-law were all there. Father said that he would give the manor to you, but none of them said anything."
Of course, they wouldn't say anything. They were the ones who benefited the most from the Zhou family's relationship with Zhou Shi's cousin.
"Last year, my father had plans to expand the Zhou Village. Now, the Zhou manor has a total of 306 mu of land. A total of 32 households had signed a lease agreement with us. Now that the Zhou manor has a new owner, you can find some time to meet with these tenants and change the agreement as you see fit."
Lin Xiaoyue was shocked.
What? More than 300 mu of land? Oh my god, what a huge manor!
"Zhou Shi..." Lin Xiaoyue was flattered by the gift.
Zhou Shi grabbed her hand before she could finish.
"Don't be so polite. Compared to what the Zhou family will get in the future, what my father gave you is nothing."
She nodded at Zhou Shi.
"Thank you!"
Zhou Shi smiled and patted Lin Xiaoyue's hand.
"No need to thank me. I should be the one thanking you! My cousin has agreed to help me pay for the 5,000 taels. In the future, the profit from the chili business will go to me.!"
"Also, my four sisters-in-law didn't dare to give me any attitude when I returned home this time.Hehe, they even flattered me." Zhou Shi couldn't help but laugh.
She thought to herself that this time, she could finally hold her head high.
Lin Xiaoyue was amused.
"Alright! If we join forces, we'll definitely be able to make a lot of money!"
"Of course!"
The two sisters-in-law chatted for a while more before Zhou Shi asked about Zhao Shanshan..
Chapter 300: Admiration (2)
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
"You really think highly of that girl. The monthly salary you give her is even higher than Uncle Fu's."
Lin Xiaoyue smiled and nodded.
"Shanshan's way of thinking is different from many women nowadays."
Zhou Shi was stunned.
Then, she nodded.
She was indeed different from many women nowadays.
If it were any other servant girl, she would have taken the opportunity to become a concubine to help her family.
Some would even seduce their master.
This kind of thing was not rare in wealthy families.
However, Zhao Shanshan actually rejected the master's advances.
After coming to the Liu family, she promised not to marry.
Such a strong woman was indeed rare.
Since the woman did not put her mind on marriage, she could put her mind on something else.
Zhao Shanshan was also literate like her and Yue'er. Yue'er could use her help.
No wonder Yue'er had such thoughts.
"The eatery in town, the spicy cabbage business, the manor, and the chili business...! can't handle it all by myself."
Zhou Shi nodded.
"It is indeed a little too much."
As the two of them were talking, there was a knock on the door.
" Miss..." It was Zhao Shanshan.
Lin Xiaoyue and Zhou Shi looked at each other and stopped talking.
"Come in."
Soon, the door was pushed open.
Zhao Shanshan entered and bowed to Lin Xiaoyue and Zhou Shi.
"Young miss, I have the items needed. Father asked if he could see you. He said that there are some things that he needs to ask you."
Lin Xiaoyue glanced at Zhao Shanshan and nodded in satisfaction when she saw that Zhao Shanshan was submissive.
"Tell Uncle Fu to wait for me in the front yard."
"Yes." Zhao Shanshan bowed before leaving.
She closed the door after leaving.
Lin Xiaoyue smiled and put away the wooden box before leaving with Zhou Shi.
Zhou Shi knew that Lin Xiaoyue had something to do, so she didn't go with her. Instead, she went to look for Liu Shi.
Lin Xiaoyue went to the front yard alone.
As expected, Zhao Fu and Zhao Shanshan were already waiting.
"Miss." Seeing Lin Xiaoyue's arrival, the two of them hurriedly bowed.
"There's no need to be so polite." Lin Xiaoyue said.
"Shanshan said that you have something to ask me, Uncle Fu."
Uncle Fu quickly stepped forward and handed a list to Lin Xiaoyue.
"Miss, the first row is the list of items that we urgently need. The ones after are secondary and require your approval."
Uncle Fu carefully glanced at Lin Xiaoyue. "Also, the servants' monthly allowance can start from next month. However, I would like to request for an advance payment."
Their family of seven did not have a single wen on them. It's difficult to do things without money.
He had just arrived and did not know the young lady's personality. He did not dare to make a decision on his own.
They could not risk making her unhappy.
Lin Xiaoyue glanced at the list that Uncle Fu had written.
She realized that he had only listed the most basic necessities in the first paragraph.
Even oil lamps, bedding, shoes and socks were listed down below.
Lin Xiaoyue glanced at Uncle Fu and Zhao Shanshan. Seeing Uncle Fu bowing with a nervous expression, she couldn't help but chuckle.
"Is this the list?"
Uncle Fu's body trembled, his heart filled with fear.
"Please correct it," he quickly said.
Could it be that he was asking too much?
However, they were really necessary.
Lin Xiaoyue glanced at the nervous duo and sighed. Finally, she said, "write this down."
As she spoke, she walked towards the stone table where Uncle Fu had placed his brush and ink.
Well, they were just sold by the Zheng family and were still afraid. It was not strange for them to be so careful.
"Yes, Miss!" Uncle Fuquickly followed.
Then, he went to the stone table and picked up the brush.
Lin Xiaoyue looked at the brush and ink used by Uncle Fu and realized that it was used by Lin Xiaozhi.
"A set of brush, ink, paper, and inkstone for the accountant's office. Twenty account books. One abacus."
Uncle Fu was only stunned for a moment before he quickly recorded it.
"In the future, all the accounts at home will be recorded in the account book and sent to me every month." Lin Xiaoyue said..