Author Archives: Thingyan

Evening approached, and the sky became hazy, darkening as a prelude to rain. The diligent farmers had already finished their work in the fields and hurried home. Along the way, they encountered their playful children and pulled their ears, leading them back home.

Chen Qi came back from the fields and sat at the entrance of the courtyard with his head down.

“What’s wrong? Sitting at the doorway and blocking everyone’s way!” Chen Ama, holding the vegetables prepared for dinner, glanced at his son sitting at the door.

“Amo, I said something wrong today and made Little Brother cry…”

“Smack, smack!” Chen Qi’s forehead gained a few bumps. “You really know how to do things! Even I’ve never made Xiao Hong cry!”

Chen Ama stuffed the vegetables into Chen Qi’s arms and hurriedly walked towards Chen Hong’s room. What kind of words should he say to make his own brother cry!

“Of course!”

Father Chen walked past Chen Qi without mercy, adding insult to injury!

Chen Qi touched his nose, knowing he was in the wrong. He carried the vegetables and walked into the kitchen with a dejected look.

Not long after, Chen Qi’s wife also entered the kitchen. It was not yet fully dark, so they didn’t light the oil lamp and immediately rolled up their sleeves to prepare dinner.

Chen Qi slowly moved closer to his wife, lightly bumping his arm. “How did it go? You’ve been in the room all afternoon.”

Upon hearing this, Chen Qi’s wife became furious and grabbed his prominent ears with one hand!

“Sss! Ouch! It hurts! I’m sorry! I’m sorry!”

Enduring the pain in his ears, Chen Qi surrendered and repeatedly apologized.

His wife finally let go and looked at his husband, who was still rubbing his ears. “Honestly! Ama isn’t even in a rush about Little Brother’s marriage, but you, as the eldest brother, are so impatient! When have you ever seen Little Brother cry like that? His big eyes were all swollen!”

Translated on ho lo lo novels dot com.

“I’m sorry, I’m sorry, I won’t say things like that again!”

Chen Qi was filled with remorse. He couldn’t control his mouth and said whatever came to mind. Now, sigh…

Chen Qi’s wife looked at his husband’s remorseful expression and sighed as well. His husband was good in every aspect, except for his habit of speaking without considering other people’s feelings. He always spoke thoughtlessly!

“The unmarried little brother heard his own eldest brother asking why he hasn’t prepared to get married yet. Isn’t that like chasing him away in disguise? How can he not be sad? Your mouth, really…!”

Chen Qi nodded repeatedly as his wife scolded him. It was his fault! It was his fault!

“If… we had a child…”

Chen Qi interrupted as soon as he heard those words and hugged his self-blaming wife tightly. “We will have one. He’s just too mischievous and coming late!”

This matter couldn’t be rushed. When they had just recently gotten married, he had also hoped for a child. But after so many years, he didn’t want his wife to blame himself and feel sad about this matter. It was something between the two of them, and he couldn’t let his wife bear it alone.

“Alright, alright! I won’t say it anymore. Later, apologize to Little Brother properly! Go, start the fire and cook!”

The people in the Li family’s courtyard had also returned. Li Xiao’er knew that the family members would come back early, and now the food was already on the table.

Li Laosan’s expression wasn’t very good. Today, several of his good friends pulled him aside and asked how he managed to separate second brother and make him leave with nothing!

“People who have been educated are different. Teach us brothers a lesson. I’ve been unhappy with my youngest brother for a long time!”

“Yes, yes, yes, Li Laosan, you can’t keep it to yourself!”

“What are you talking about! Li Laosan is an educated person, how could he break his promise! He will definitely teach us! Why the rush!”

“Yes, yes, hahaha…!”

Li Laosan explained with a gloomy face for a long time, but no one believed him. They were even insinuating that he was hiding something!

Finally, he couldn’t take it anymore and stormed off, leaving everyone behind. Unreasonable! It was simply unreasonable!!

“Is Lao San feeling unwell?”

Li Laosan was asked by Li Changfeng with a caring tone. He turned his head and looked at Li Changfeng’s face full of concern, with worry in his eyes.

“It’s nothing, maybe it’s the sudden cold weather recently, I caught a chill!” Li Laosan forced out the words, swallowing the inquiry at his lips.

“Then you need to take care of yourself. Catching a chill is not good!” Li Ama heard Li Changfeng’s words and noticed that Li Laosan’s complexion was a bit pale!

“Lao San, take it easy these days, your health is important!” Eldest Li also felt that Li Laosan was indeed sick. Just look at his face, so dark!

Eldest Li’s wife served some dishes for his two children, feeling unhappy. Li Laosan was always slow in his work, and now he had to take it easy!

“Why didn’t you tell me earlier? Here, drink some hot soup to warm up!” Li Wangshi believed it was true and quickly scooped a bowl of hot soup for Li Laosan.

Li Changfeng even took the few fried eggs in his own bowl and put them into Li Laosan’s bowl. These were the eight eggs that Li Xiao’er had fried, with the consent of Li Ama, to nourish their family’s bodies. They needed a strong foundation for the busy spring farming!

Li Laosan looked at the egg that Li Changfeng had put in his bowl, feeling a bit guilty. Why did he have such thoughts about his second brother? It must be that gossiping person in the village spreading rumors!

***

Xu Qing was checking the herbs and seedlings in the space. The herbs were growing stronger, and the seedlings were sprouting. This made Xu Qing quite happy!

After leaving the space, Xu Qing washed his face with the diluted spiritual spring water. “After I washed it this time, I can’t wash it again, otherwise, it will heal too quickly!” Even if he didn’t wash his face with spiritual spring water anymore, it would heal before the wedding day.

That night, it rained heavily. The sparse raindrops formed a lullaby, but Xu Qing was completely unaware of the arrival of the rain. He was sleeping soundly, wrapped in the blanket like a silkworm pupa!

Li Changfeng, however, hadn’t been able to sleep these past few days. Every day that passed without getting married, he couldn’t calm down. Apart from the blind date with Xu Qing at the market, he hadn’t seen him and didn’t know how he was doing. How could a young ger like Xu Qing with a frail body chop firewood, farm the land, and…

He couldn’t imagine how Xu Qing, with such a weak body, managed to live. The more he thought about it, the more his heart ached. Xu Qing’s body seemed to be about the same size as Xiao’er’s, and he wondered how much hardship he had endured! How many grievances he had suffered!

He also wanted to secretly meet Xu Qing, but he couldn’t. According to the customs, if one side of the couple went to meet the other side without permission after the wedding date was set, it would mean that the marriage was impure… He didn’t believe in such things, but he was afraid, because Xu Qing was the person he wanted to cherish in his hands for the rest of his life!

Chen Hong was also unable to sleep. He had cried all afternoon today, letting out all the pent-up feelings he couldn’t express about Li Changfeng!

His eyes were frighteningly swollen, yet they carried a kind of melancholic beauty. He had fallen in love with Li Changfeng since he understood things.

Li Changfeng had a handsome appearance, and although he didn’t speak much, he gave Chen Hong an unexpected sense of security. Perhaps it was because of Chen Qi’s unruly nature in front of him, in Chen Hong’s heart, Li Changfeng became the type of man he respected and desired.

Li Changfeng and Chen Qi were good brothers, Li Changfeng often visited Chen Qi’s house, and Chen Hong had more opportunities to see Li Changfeng. Unconsciously, he grew up and developed feelings for Li Changfeng!

However, he couldn’t show any of his inner thoughts. Five years ago, when Li Changfeng got engaged to the Wang family’s son, Chen Hong was ten years old. He felt that his beloved big brother had been taken away, and he was unwilling. So he worked hard to excel in everything, surpassing all the gers in the village!

He succeeded. Whether it was embroidery or appearance, he was the best in the village! When the Wang family’s son married Li Laosan, he was ecstatic in a way that he couldn’t believe himself. He knew that this way, Li Changfeng would be single again.

But this time when Li Changfeng returned to the village, he didn’t come to Chen Hong’s house. He wanted to see Li Changfeng, to show him how the little boy who used to follow him had grown up! He wanted to see the infatuation and admiration in Li Changfeng’s eyes for himself. He felt like he was going crazy!

But what he heard back was that Li Changfeng was engaged… Chen Hong knew that if Li Changfeng didn’t get engaged now, he would have to accept the official arranged marriage, so he thought about finding an opportunity to let Li Changfeng know his feelings and then propose to him!

But it was too late! Too late! Chen Hong covered his eyes with hands that could no longer shed tears. His heart ached like a knife. He couldn’t accept it! He couldn’t accept it!

The sound of rain outside grew louder, weighing down his heart even more…

***

Xu Qing was going crazy these past few days!! Ever since that day when the matchmaker Huang came to propose, more matchmakers have been coming every day. People’s words are really not to be underestimated!

“The Ma family has one of the few large blue-tiled houses in the village! If you marry into their family, you won’t have to worry about food and clothing!” Thanks, he will have his own large blue-tiled house in the future!

“The Wang family has surplus grain every year that can’t be finished!!” Thanks, even though he’s a glutton, he can grow his own food!

“Qian family’s eldest son is really strong and healthy!” Thanks, his family’s Li Changfeng is also strong and healthy; he fits his taste perfectly!!

“Mou family only has one son! Marry into that family, and all the property will be yours!” Thanks, but I’ve always relied on myself!!

!!!!!!!!!

Without any mercy, Xu Qing drove away the last matchmaker. It took him a large glass of water to calm down. These matchmakers are really persistent!!

“Knock, knock, knock!”

Xu Qing didn’t even want to move.

“Who is it?”

“It’s me, Xie Ama!”

As soon as Xu Qing heard the familiar voice, he almost tearfully opened the courtyard gate for Xie Ama!

“Look at you! I haven’t been here for a few days, and it’s become like this.”

These past few days, Xie Ama had stayed at the in-laws’ house in town and only returned today.

“You don’t know, these waves of matchmakers keep finding ways to come to my yard! I can’t stop them at all! Even when I go out to cut the pig weed, there are people waiting for me!”

Xu Qing bitterly poured out his grievances to Xie Ama. He had been tormented enough by this group of people. He even dreamed every night that someone was persuading him to get married!

Xie Ama frowned. If he and his old partner didn’t live so far away, they wouldn’t let those people hassle Xu Qing like this. “Oh, Brother Qing, your face!!!”

Xu Qing touched his smooth and tender cheeks. “It’s better now, isn’t it?!” It’s because his face has improved in these past few days that even more people have come to propose! He wished he hadn’t used the Spiritual spring water to wash his face that day!

All the red dots on Xu Qing’s face were gone, leaving behind fair skin, rosy lips, and a pair of shiny black eyes. Coupled with his petite figure, he looked even more cute and delicate. Although he wasn’t the most attractive person Xie Ama had ever seen, he was full of liveliness.

“Great! That’s great!”

“Ah, Xie Ama, don’t get too excited!” Seeing Xie Ama on the verge of tears, Xu Qing quickly jumped up to calm him down.

Xie Ama regained his composure but continued to gaze at Xu Qing’s face. “Tomorrow morning, Wei Ama, Liu ama, and I will come to help you to get ready. Xie Ama will bring vegetables tomorrow morning, so you just have a good night’s sleep!”

Tomorrow is the day when Xu Qing and Li Changfeng will get married.

“I’ve already talked to Village head, and as for whether he will come tomorrow, don’t think too much about it. There will be many people getting married in the village tomorrow, and even a sip of water will keep him busy!”

“Well, Xie Ama, you’ve thought of everything!” Xu Qing had been bothered by matchmakers these past few days and hadn’t expected this twist.

“Oh, and…”

Blushing, Xie Ama stuffed a small booklet into Xu Qing’s hands. “Take a look at this tonight!”

Without waiting for Xu Qing’s reaction, Xie Ama quickly left. “Get some rest early tonight!”

“I know! Goodbye, Xie Ama!”

Xu Qing returned to his room, flipped through the booklet Xie Ama gave him, blushed at a glance, and placed the booklet on the wardrobe. He wrapped himself in a blanket and prepared to sleep.

After a while, a hand quickly reached into the wardrobe and took the booklet!

Li Changfeng was also surrounded by Eldest Li and Li Laosan. “Hey, second brother, here, learn well!”

Li Changfeng was confused. “I can’t read. Why should I look at a book?”

Li Laosan chuckled, “It’s fine, this isn’t a book with words, it’s not words, haha!”

“Come on, let’s go! Brother, study it well! Haha!”

Eldest Li and Li Laosan handed the booklet to Li Changfeng and then ran off.

Li Changfeng opened the booklet with curiosity. Gradually, his face turned slightly red, and after a while, his eyes began to sparkle. Finally, with a calm face and a steady heartbeat, he lay on the bed, holding the booklet, and started studying it carefully!

🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸

Chen Qi turned abruptly and indeed saw his younger brother with his head bowed, his voice sounding off.

Dropping the hoe from his hand, Chen Qi walked quickly to Chen Hong’s side and lifted his brother’s head, only to gaze into a pair of teary eyes.

“Why are you crying?!”

Chen Qi was about to wipe away Chen Hong’s tears when he noticed his hands covered in mud from repairing the hoe. He suddenly felt at a loss, saying, “Don’t cry! Don’t cry! It’s big brother’s fault. Our younger brother is so good, you’ll definitely find the best match!”

Chen Hong wanted to smile at his caring brother, but no matter how hard he tried, he couldn’t curve his lips upwards. His mind was filled with the matter of Li Changfeng’s arranged marriage, and tears uncontrollably streamed down his face.

“Brother… I’m, I’m fine…”

Chen Hong spoke while crying, unable to stop…

Chen Qi felt a wave of discomfort in his heart, cursing himself inwardly: It’s all his fault for being too talkative!

“Oh no, what happened?! Step aside. Come on, little brother, tell your brother-in-law what’s going on? Did your big brother bully you?!”

Chen Qi’s wife, who had just returned home after fetching pigweed, saw Chen Hong sobbing in their yard, while his husband stood there in a daze.

If he didn’t comfort Chen Hong, that would be one thing, but not even wiping away his tears? Chen Qi’s wife thought angrily, pushing Chen Qi aside.

When Chen Qi’s wife married Chen Qi, Chen Hong was only seven or eight years old. Over the years, since he hadn’t conceived any children himself, he had treated Chen Hong, who was well-behaved and sensible, as his own child. Now, seeing Chen Hong, who usually had a radiant face, crying like a tearful person, it was hard for Chen Qi’s wife to bear in his heart.

Translated on ho lo lo novels dot com.

“Nothing, brother, it’s me. I don’t know why, but I started crying! It has nothing to do with you!”

Chen Hong held Chen Qi’s wife’s hand, vouching for Chen Qi’s innocence. Chen Qi’s wife glared at Chen Qi who had a face full of guilt, then pulled the still-sniffling Chen Hong into his room.

Just by looking at Chen Qi’s appearance, one could tell that there must be a reason for his younger brother’s tears.

Chen Qi felt very uncomfortable in his heart too. He had just spoken without thinking, and now…! He picked up the embroidery basket that Chen Hong had dropped on the ground when he left, dusted off the dirt, and placed it in the main hall. After some thought, Chen Qi tiptoed and leaned against the wall of the main hall, wanting to listen to any sounds inside.

“What are you doing?! Get out! Get out! Don’t you find it chaotic enough?!”

As soon as Chen Qi’s wife opened the door, he saw Chen Qi eavesdropping.

“Uh, well, is our younger brother still crying? Apologize to him for me. I… I’ll go to the field now…”

Watching Chen Qi fumble his way out of the main hall, Chen Qi’s wife helplessly closed the door.

Meanwhile, Xu Qing had finished feeding the piglet and went to the riverside with a wooden bucket. This time, he was using the spiritual spring water to lure the fish. After all, he had bought some herbal medicine from the medicine shop, so it would be beneficial to eat more fish that had consumed the spiritual spring water. He had caught six this time!

As he returned home with the fish, someone knocked on the courtyard gate.

Without thinking, Xu Qing placed the bucket not far from the well and went to open the gate.

“Oh!”

Xu Qing was startled by what Xie Ama was holding up in front of him.

“You, child, didn’t bring the medicine!”

Seeing Xu Qing patting his chest, Xie Ama grinned and said, “Scared you, huh? Hahaha!”

Xu Qing rolled his eyes inwardly. Who wouldn’t be startled by something suddenly appearing in front of them? But after spending these days in this timeline, he had gotten used to it, and his alertness had decreased significantly!

“Oh, Xie Ama, don’t rush to leave. Come in quickly. I just caught a few fish! Take some back with you!” Xu Qing said to Xie Ama, who was about to leave shortly after arriving at the door.

Upon hearing this, Xie Ama swiftly turned around and followed Xu Qing inside the courtyard.

“I have to say, after eating the fish you made the other day, I wanted to try making it myself, but I kept forgetting to go catch some! Your Uncle Xie is the same. If I don’t catch them, he acts as if he doesn’t even know!” Xie Ama smiled as he looked at the lively fish wriggling in the bucket. He felt contented in his heart. This was meat!

“As long as you follow my instructions, it will surely taste good. Remember to sprinkle some of the Sichuan peppercorn powder I gave you. Oh, and if you have any wine at home, you can add a little. Not too much, just to remove the fishy smell!” Xu Qing thought about the lunch he had at Xie Ama’s house earlier, where Uncle Xie mentioned that he enjoyed drinking a small amount. Xu Qing realized that he had forgotten that alcohol was also good for removing the fishy smell. Unfortunately, he didn’t have any at home. However, he could make his own!

Xu Qing’s eyes gleamed with excitement. This was a business opportunity!

“Alright, alright. I’ll have Uncle Xie obediently bring out his hidden treasure!”

Xie Ama didn’t like the smell of alcohol, but unfortunately, Uncle Xie had a taste for it. Helpless, Uncle Xie kept the alcohol in a place he knew, so as not to bother Xie Ama’s sight. He only drank occasionally.

“Is Brother Qing at home?”

Just as Xie Ama and Xu Qing were chatting cheerfully, a sugary male voice echoed in the courtyard, abruptly silencing their conversation.

Since the courtyard gate wasn’t closed when Xie Ama entered, it could be pushed open easily.

“I’m here. Who is it?”

Xu Qing wiped the chicken skin that was stimulated by the voice on his arm. He heard, “Is Brother Qing at home?”

Xie Ama felt that the voice sounded familiar, but he couldn’t recall who it was.

The person outside the courtyard gate heard Xu Qing’s response and gently pushed open the gate. Xu Qing then saw a small mountain! Ahem, I mean, a person who resembled a small mountain.

Xie Ama squinted his eyes as he looked at the person who weighed over 200 pounds at the courtyard gate.

The person who resembled a small mountain was Huang Ama. He dug out a large handkerchief from his pocket, wiped the sweat dripping from his face, and then carefully squeezed his large body into Xu Qing’s courtyard.

“Hey, isn’t this Xie Ama from the village? Are you also here for a chat?” Huang Ama, with his large body, approached Xu Qing and Xie Ama. The sound of Xu Qing’s goosebumps standing up could be heard as Huang Ama greeted Xie Ama with a playful expression on his face.

“I was wondering who had such a ‘captivating’ voice calling Brother Qing. So it turns out to be Huang Ama. Why are you here instead of matchmaking unmarried couples? Why did you come to my nephew’s house?!” Xie Ama’s words immediately woke up the dazed Xu Qing. So this person was a matchmaker!

“Just look at what you’re saying. I came here to play matchmaker!” Huang Ama’s small eyes, almost disappearing into his flesh, quickly surveyed Xu Qing’s courtyard. They gleamed with greed because, you see, if he successfully arranged the marriage for the ugly ger, he would receive double the usual red envelope!

“Heh, you’ve come to the wrong place! It’s getting late, and Brother Qing won’t offer you a seat to stay. Go and attend to your own business!” Xie Ama said with a dismissive tone.

Xie Ama gave Xu Qing a reassuring look and began to show Huang Ama the way out! This Huang Ama was someone who saw money in everything. As long as the red envelope money was enough, he would do anything, even match an unmarried ger with a widow! He had no conscience! Xie Ama wouldn’t give him a good face to see!

Upon hearing Xie Ama’s veiled words, Xu Qing also understood. This person had come to propose marriage! It made sense since Xu Qing, as a young ger without elders to make decisions for him, marrying him would mean bringing along a large piece of land.

Usually, when a man proposes to a ger, it is kept secret. So only Xie Ama’s family and Liu’s family, who knew about Xu Qing’s engagement with Li Changfeng, were aware of the matter. Others would only find out about Xu Qing’s identity after the wedding.

When a man proposes to a ger, he invites a matchmaker to the ger’s house. With a silver tongue, the matchmaker tries to arrange the match. If successful, the man’s family will give the matchmaker a red envelope. If unsuccessful, they still need to pay for the travel expenses.

“Hey hey hey! Why are you chasing me away? Ah? More fish?! Brother Qing, why are you still eating this?” Huang Ama felt uncomfortable. He hadn’t finished speaking yet! How could they chase him away like this? How could he arrange a match if he was driven out?

In the struggle between Xie Ama and Huang Ama, they accidentally kicked the wooden barrel containing the fish, causing it to topple over, spilling water and the fish jumping around.

Xu Qing told Xie Ama not to touch it, as the fish would make his hands smell fishy. He filled the barrel with water again and carefully caught the jumping fish one by one, placing them back in the barrel. He replied irritably to Huang Ama’s words, “Why can’t we eat it?!”

If it weren’t for Xie Ama preventing him from interrupting, he would have kicked out this matchmaker long ago. But he also understood Xie Ama’s intention. This Huang Ama was clearly a petty person. As the saying goes, it’s better to offend a gentleman than to offend a petty person!

Huang Ama’s small eyes lit up. “You see, with just one person living alone, it’s not a good life without getting married. I have some good news to tell you! The Sun family in the village invited me to arrange a marriage proposal for their second son with you!”

After speaking, he had a face full of anticipation, waiting for Xu Qing’s surprised response. He expected Xu Qing to be grateful, as it would be considered a success if they could marry off this “ugly ger.” Otherwise, it would be an arranged marriage by the officials! However, Huang Ama squinted his eyes, puzzled, as he didn’t receive the grateful words he had imagined from Xu Qing. He looked at Xu Qing with suspicion.

To his surprise, Xu Qing was busy picking thorns from the fish with a piece of grass.

“Well, the Sun family is an honest and decent family. Marrying into their family would be much better than your days of eating thorny fish!”

Xu Qing deftly used a grass rope to tie up the three larger fish. These were to be taken back by Xie Ama!

“Tell the Sun family that I, Xu Qing, make my own decisions. They don’t need to worry about me not having enough to eat. I’ll find my own husband. Thank them for their concern. Huang Ama, it’s getting late, and it seems like you’re busy too! I won’t see you off. Goodbye!”

Polite yet firm, Xu Qing “courteously” ushered the incessantly chattering Huang Ama out of the gate, then closed and secured the gate with a resounding thud, just as Huang Ama was still trying to reenter.

🌸🌸🌸🌸🌸

It was noon, and smoke rose from every household in the village, resembling a string of clouds floating in the air.

Xu Qing finished his lunch at Uncle Xie’s house and headed home with his newly made bride’s attire in hand.

As he walked out of the village’s outskirts, he could already see his home, a solitary dwelling in the mountains. Opening the courtyard gate, he heard the squeals of the piglet coming from the pigsty. “Alright, I’ll need to gather some pig feed in the afternoon. Can’t let it go hungry and thin!”

He neatly placed the wedding dress in the wardrobe and gently touched it. In a few days, he would have to wear it. Closing the wardrobe door, he changed into patched clothes and washed his discarded garments by the well, hanging them to dry in the courtyard. “The sun is getting hotter. It seems like the days of spring plowing are approaching.”

Xu Qing put on a backpack, grabbed a knife, locked the courtyard gate, and headed to the vegetable field to gather pig feed. In a few days, he would have to start digging the land, so he needed to tidy up the surface quickly for convenience.

***

“The Zeng family is here for a chat!”

Under a large pagoda tree in the village, several middle-aged gers were sitting together, engaged in a lively conversation. One of them, dressed in gray, spotted another middle-aged ger approaching from the opposite side and quickly greeted him.

“Hey there, come here! It’s none other than you!” The ger called Zeng, responding with a cheerful smile, remembered that he had encountered something significant today. He wanted to have a good chat with them about it!

This Zeng Ama was none other than the one Xu Qing had met at the pharmacy earlier today!

Zeng Ama sat down beside the gray-clad ger, looking at the others across and casually asked, “Have you all eaten?”

The gers nodded politely, feeling somewhat uneasy. The man from the Zeng family was skilled in carpentry and often sought after for various festive or other tasks in the village. So, Zeng Ama led a more comfortable life compared to them. However, Zeng Ama had a sharp tongue and was known to exaggerate things.

The gray-clad ger, who was also close to Sun Ama and Zeng Ama, enjoyed prying into other people’s affairs to enrich himself and entertain others.

“Tsk tsk, is that hairpin on your head made of silver?!” As soon as Sun Ama saw Zeng Ama sit next to him, he noticed the silver hairpin on his head and felt a twinge of sourness in his heart. His own husband was just a farmer with no special skills, and their life was merely getting by, unlike the prosperous Zeng family.

Seeing that everyone else was also looking at his head with envy, Zeng Ama proudly twisted his waist and deliberately touched the silver hairpin on his head with great care.

“Well, of course! Lately, my husband has been getting a lot of dowry-related carpentry work, so we’ve had some extra silver coins. Today, he insisted that I go buy something to dress myself up!”

The others present felt a pang in their hearts.

“I mean, I’m already in my forties, and our son has been married for several years. Why bother with dressing up? But my husband just won’t listen! He keeps saying I’m still young and should take care of myself!”

Sun Ama forced himself to shift his gaze away from Zeng Ama’s head. “Weren’t you planning to go to the market to see a doctor yesterday?” So what if they have money? People still get sick!

“Oh, don’t even mention it! Guess who I ran into at the pharmacy today? Come on, guess!” Zeng Ama’s face turned red with excitement. He stopped fidgeting with the things on his head and stared at the people in front of him, wishing they would all surround him and ask eagerly.

However, the others, whose hearts were aching from the sight of the silver hairpin on Zeng Ama’s head, showed little interest.

“Who was it?”

“Who else could it be at the pharmacy, except the doctor!”

“No, there were other patients who paid to see the doctor!” Sun Ama deliberately emphasized the words “paid,” “see the doctor,” and “patients,” making the others chuckle and cover their mouths.

“No, it’s not them! None of them! Listen carefully! Today, at the pharmacy, I ran into that ‘ugly ger’ from the Xu family!” Zeng Ama completely ignored Sun Ama’s words and loudly announced whom he had actually encountered!

Upon hearing this, everyone started discussing it animatedly.

Translated on ho lo lo novels dot com.

“Ugly ger?!”

“It must be that child from the Xu family.”

“Yeah, it’s him. I haven’t seen him up close in years.”

“Ah, it’s really pitiful. Both his mother and father passed away, leaving behind this poor soul.”

“Yeah, that’s true…”

“Ahem, I haven’t finished yet!” Zeng Ama saw that everyone was ignoring him and quickly coughed a few times to regain their attention.

“The ugly ger’s face, tsk tsk, has improved a lot compared to before. Now it’s just a few small marks!”

As he spoke, Zeng Ama even used his hand to gesture the size of the “marks.” He often went with his own husband to the outskirts of the mountain to cut wood, so he would occasionally catch a glimpse of Xu Qing. Today was the clearest of his face he had seen.

“Is he finally better?”

One of the gers asked with concern. That child was pitiful, and he was a ger. If he were a man, he wouldn’t have suffered so much.

Zeng Ama slapped his thigh. “Yes, he’s getting better! The doctor prescribed him some Chinese medicine to take, and it won’t be long before he’s fine!”

“But why didn’t the Xu couple take the ugly ger to see a doctor earlier? It would have been good if he recovered sooner!”

“You came to our village relatively late, so you don’t know! That child refused to leave the house and see anyone! And I remember, several quack doctors couldn’t find the cause of his illness. So, things just settled down.” This incident caused quite a stir back then.

Zeng Ama waved his hand in a grand manner. “Those things don’t matter. Do you know that the ugly ger has reached the age of marriage this year?!”

Sun Ama felt a stir in his heart. The ugly ger has no elders left in his family! That house, that land! It’s something anyone can acquire just by marrying the ugly ger!

“Oh, I suddenly remembered that I have something to take care of! I’ll go back first. You guys chat! You guys chat!”

Sun Ama quickly bid farewell to Zeng Ama and the others and hurried back home. He had to make good use of his time!

The other gers also realized this and hastily bid farewell to Zeng Ama, who was still unaware of the situation.

“Hey, why is everyone leaving? I haven’t finished yet! And you didn’t even gossip with me about who the ugly ger will be married to!”

Just after Liu Ama’s family finished dinner, Uncle Xie arrived, handing Liu Ama the groom’s wedding attire. He also explained the specific wedding date that had been arranged. Then, he borrowed a donkey cart and returned to Happiness Village.

Because Liu Ama was the one who went to report the good news at Li Changfeng’s house in the first place, he decided to deliver the groom’s clothes this time too. He would then pass the wedding date on to Li Changfeng, signifying the continuation of blessings.

“The 28th is a good day!” Butcher Liu heard that several people in the village had chosen the 28th for their wedding day!

“If it’s not a good day, why would they choose it? Don’t say anything, you’ll only make people angry!”

Liu Ama packed up the items and went to Li’s house to find Li Changfeng.

“Hey, anyone home?”

Opening the door for Liu Ama was none other than Li Changfeng himself. He was afraid of missing any message brought by Xu Qing, so he had decided to stay home a little longer, even after everyone else had left after dinner.

“Come in quickly, Liu Ama. Is this…?” Li Changfeng looked at the things Liu Ama was carrying and asked excitedly. The wedding attire for the couple had to be made by the same person, otherwise it would signify separation! That would be inauspicious!

“That’s right! Remember, on the 28th of this month, you should get everything ready and get married! I’ll come by and have a cup of wedding wine then!”

Liu Ama was also delighted. He exchanged a few more words with Li Changfeng before heading home.

“Definitely! Definitely! Thanks for your efforts, Liu Ama! Take care!”

Li Changfeng carried the wedding attire back to his room, tried it on, and found it fitting perfectly! It felt comfortable! He carefully took it off and put it away, being cautious not to damage it.

He felt like he was floating with excitement! In just a few more days, he would see Xu Qing again, and when they met, they would be a couple!

Li Changfeng opened the cabinet once again, took the seven taels of silver that Li Ama had given him, locked the courtyard gate, and hurriedly left the house.

Chen Qi was repairing a hoe in the courtyard of his home. The hoe had been used for a long time and had become loose, making it difficult for him to dig the ground with force! He had to start planting crops soon, and he couldn’t afford any delays due to this!

Chen Hong carried a wooden stool and sat not far from Chen Qi, holding a basket of embroidery work.

“Brother!”

“What’s up?”

Chen Hong lowered his head, holding a piece of embroidered cloth in his hand. “I want to ask you something.”

“Go ahead! Although I’ve been doing odd jobs in the military camp these years, I’ve also gained some knowledge! Ask away!”

“It’s not about you.”

Chen Hong continued embroidering the unfinished pattern with nimble fingers, his words hurting Chen Qi’s inflated heart.

“Alright, alright, go ahead and ask!” Chen Qi, who had wanted to show off, reluctantly swallowed the words that were about to come out of his mouth.

“Do you know who Brother Changfeng is going to marry?” Chen Hong asked Chen Qi, trying to keep his tone calm. Chen Qi forcefully tapped the hoe on the ground a few times, causing Chen Hong’s heart to tremble along with it.

“I don’t know. That kid keeps his mouth shut tight!” Why is it still a bit loose even after all this tapping?

Chen Hong bit his red lips slightly, feeling a mess inside.

“Let’s not talk about him. When the day comes for him to visit, even if he tries to hide it from me, I’ll know whose son he is marrying!”

Chen Hong bitterly pulled at the corners of his mouth. By the time that day comes, it will be too late, too late.

“You should also start preparing. Zhang’s son, who is the same age as you, is getting married on the 28th of this month!” Chen Hong had a good appearance, excelled in embroidery, and had many suitors, but he simply didn’t fancy any of them.

“What’s wrong? Big brother afraid I won’t be able to get married?!”

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“I got it, thank you, Xie Ama!”

“Why does it sound so awkward? Thanking me for this and that,” Xie Ama said, pulling the excited Xu Qing to sit down and teasing him.

“By the way, I heard some discussions in the village today about the situation with Li Changfeng’s family. The Li family had separated with Li Changfeng. Did he inform you about it?” Xie Ama recalled overhearing a conversation while he was out looking for vegetables, involving someone who had just returned from Jixiang Village and was talking with Wei Ama. As soon as Xie Ama heard it was about the Li family, he joined in to listen, and what did he hear? “I heard about Li Changfeng being kicked out!”

Xu Qing listened quietly to Xie Ama’s words. “He mentioned it.”

Xie Ama couldn’t help but give Xu Qing a frustrated pat. “What are you thinking?! Yes, it’s one thing to split from the family, but being kicked out is not a good thing. Moreover,” Xie Ama whispered, “Li’s third son is involved in this matter too!”

Xu Qing, pretending to be confused, asked, “How is Li’s third son involved?”

Xie Ama sighed softly. “That Li’s third son is also a well-known figure around here. He passed the scholar examination a few years ago! Ah, that was quite a show-off, a remarkable achievement!”

“Are there many scholars in our town?”

Xie Ama glared, “Do you think scholars are as common as cabbage? They’re everywhere? Is there a shortage?!”

“Hehe, I just don’t know the situation well. Please continue! Please continue!” Xu Qing’s grinning and funny appearance amused Xie Ama.

It turned out that this Li’s third son was also someone of importance. In all of Xingfu Village, Jixiang Village, and Anle Village, there were only six scholars in total. Among them, Xingfu Village had two, Anle Village had three, and this last village only had Li’s third son. “I have to admit, when Li’s third son passed the scholar examination, he was the youngest among all the villages!”

“What was the oldest age for someone to pass the scholar examination?”

Xie Ama stretched out his hands and waved them in front of Xu Qing’s eyes. “This is…?” It couldn’t be fifty, right?!

“Fifty! It was from Anle Village. Afterward, he realized he couldn’t pass the examination, so he opened a school in Anle Village and became a teacher. Believe it or not, he was quite successful! The two scholars who passed the examination later were his students!”

“This person really benefited the villagers!” Xu Qing knew that Xingfu Village didn’t have a school. If someone wanted to study, they had to travel for about an hour and a half to Anle Village.

Xie Ama spoke with respect, “Exactly. But after Li’s third son passed the examination, he tried a few more times without success for the higher level exam. The local teacher in the town kindly advised him.” Xie Ama adjusted his expression and imitated the tone of that teacher, “You, young man, have plenty of time to try other things! Not everyone excels in this field!”

After saying that, Xie Ama and Xu Qing burst into laughter. “Later, this remark spread, and Li’s third son couldn’t bear the embarrassment of continuing his studies. Even if he wanted to study, his family didn’t have the extra money to support him.”

Feeling humiliated, Li’s third son returned to Jixiang Village, carrying the title of a scholar. But he was a countryman by nature; a scholar by identity only, and yet not as physically strong as an ordinary man.

“Later, the village head of Jixiang Village, at the request of the villagers, asked this Li’s third son to open a school, just like the one in Anle Village. For those who couldn’t afford tuition, they would offer some food in return. They simply hoped their children would gain some basic knowledge! However, this Li’s third son considered himself superior and refused to become a teacher. He believed that one day he might unexpectedly pass the examination!”

“Then the villagers must be annoyed with him?” If that was the case, then the two gers that Xu Qing met at the market today, who mentioned Li’s third son with disdain, must have been referring to this situation. It didn’t seem right for someone with scholarly achievements to be regarded like that. After all, he had gained fame as a scholar!

Xie Ama smirked, “Exactly. He doesn’t even consider that the Li family supported him throughout all those years of studying. He refuses to become a teacher, yet he can’t exert himself in physical labor either! He indulges in daydreams and still had the audacity to claim a portion of Li Changfeng’s share! He’s quite something!”

Translated on ho lo lo novels dot com.

Did Li Laosan really force Li Changfeng out from the Li family? But Xu Qing had another speculation in his mind.

Xie Ama was still worried. “Li Changfeng is good in every aspect, except that he’s too honest! It’s a good thing he married into your family; otherwise, who knows how he would have been bullied by others!”

Xu Qing shook his head inwardly. It seemed that many people had been deceived by that person. He originally thought he had found a simple and honest golden retriever, but little did he know it was a cunning hunting dog!

***

It was already noon, but there wasn’t the usual spring heat in the forest. Instead, a gentle breeze caressed their faces, bringing a sense of nature. Chen Qi and Li Changfeng were walking towards the village, each carrying a bundle of firewood.

Chen Qi casually asked, pretending to be relaxed, “You suddenly decided to marry in, which startled me! It would have been nice if you had given me a heads up, so I could be mentally prepared!”

Li Changfeng effortlessly navigated through the trees and bushes in the mountains, carrying the stack of firewood. Some leaves fluttered around his legs.

“What do you need to be mentally prepared for? It’s not like we’re living together!”

Chen Qi felt dissatisfied. “Regardless, we grew up playing in the mud together! Don’t bring up other matters!”

Apart from Chen Qi, there was only one younger brother (ger) in his family. When Chen Qi was seventeen or eighteen, he got married, but they still hadn’t had any children. Fortunately, Chen Qi’s parents were not pushy people, and life was going smoothly. Five years ago, it was Chen Qi who went to serve in the military.

“I like him, and I’m getting older. If I don’t get married soon, I’ll have to marry someone arranged by the officials.”

Li Changfeng remembered Xu Qing warmly in his heart. He hadn’t received any news from him until now, and he didn’t know how he was doing. He heard that the 28th of this month was an auspicious day, and many couples had chosen that day!

“You like him? What does he look like?”

Chen Qi picked up a tree branch from the side of the road and kept hitting the bundle of firewood carried by Li Changfeng, making a continuous “tada” sound. The sharp, thin sound seemed to echo the owner’s eager emotions.

“It’s definitely not like you!” Li Changfeng, upon reaching a fork in the road, headed towards his own path without paying any attention to Chen Qi, who had a gloomy face.

“This kid!”

Chen Qi shrugged his shoulders, causing the branches that were poking him to shift position. He walked towards the other path. Their homes were separated by these two diverging paths—neither too far nor too close.

“You’re back? Hurry up, wash your hands and have dinner!”

Chen Qi’s wife, upon hearing his distinctive footsteps, didn’t even turn his head as he collected the blankets drying in the yard. Chen Qi’s wife was from Anle Village, with an open and generous personality. However, there was one obstacle in his heart—he hadn’t been able to give birth to a child for so many years since marrying Chen Qi!

Chen Qi responded with a sound and placed the firewood behind the woodshed. He twisted his neck and said, “Hey, I have to say, it’s been a few years since I chopped firewood, and I’m feeling a bit rusty today!”

Chen Ama brought the meal to the table and heard Chen Qi’s loud voice from the yard. He glared at Father Chen, who was sitting in the main room smoking a dry cigarette. “I don’t know who he takes after, shouting so loudly as if others couldn’t hear!”

Father Chen was indifferent to his wife’s complaints. At this time, a pleasant voice rang out, “Ama is saying that the eldest brother is becoming more and more like Father!”

Suddenly, a handsome young ger of about 1.7 meters tall emerged from the room, holding a basket of embroidered handkerchiefs. This was Chen Qi’s younger brother, Chen Hong, who was fifteen years old this year and at the prime age for marriage.

As Father Chen saw his son coming out, all his frustration dissipated. Chen Hong was his second child, and he was one of the most handsome young gers in the village. He excelled at embroidery and was filial—a true treasure.

“It’s all because of your brother’s loud voice, causing a commotion!” Chen Hong placed the basket of embroidery on a small cabinet in the main room. He took out a finished embroidered handkerchief from inside and handed it to Chen Ama, saying, “Ama, this is a new pattern I just embroidered. Take a look, what do you think?”

“What do I think?” Chen Qi, upon entering the main room, heard the last part of Chen Hong’s sentence. Chen Hong smiled and called out, “Brother, Brother, I was telling Ama about the handkerchief I just finished. If it’s good enough, I’ll sell it.”

Chen Qi leaned in closer to his father, looking at the embroidered handkerchief he was playing with in his hand. “Younger brother’s embroidery is one of the best in the village!”

Chen Ama listened happily to his son’s praise. His eyes were filled with satisfaction. “There’s no need to say that. Alright, let’s eat quickly. I’ll sell this handkerchief tomorrow morning. It’s a new pattern, so it should fetch a good price!”

Chen Qi had already set up the bowls and chopsticks, serving his father and himself a bowl of semi-thin porridge each. Although their family wasn’t impoverished, they were not a particularly affluent farming household.

Chen Hong sipped his porridge and glanced at Chen Qi, who was devouring his bread on the opposite side. “Brother, did you go to see Brother Changfeng this morning?”

Chen Qi stuffed a mouthful of wild vegetables and replied without much thought, “Yeah, that guy decided to marry into someone’s household without even giving us a heads-up!”

Chen Hong’s hand holding the bowl tightened slightly, and he pursed his lips. Chen Ama scolded Chen Qi with a glare, “What did I tell you!”

Chen Qi was puzzled. Why did his Ama and that guy Li Changfeng say the same thing? “After all, we grew up together. What’s wrong with caring about each other?”

Chen Qi’s wife noticed that Chen Hong seemed absent-minded. He looked at the still-resisting Chen Qi and remembered that this morning, Chen Hong had asked Chen Ama to inquire about the truth of Li Changfeng, the second son of the Li family, splitting off. He hoped it wouldn’t turn out as Chen Hong feared, but it turned out Li Changfeng had already been betrothed to another young ger.

Chen Qi’s wife casually picked up a piece of food and gently tapped Chen Hong, who was lost in thought. “Here, eat a bit more, or your brother will finish everything soon!”

Chen Hong snapped out of his reverie and listened to his brother-in-law’s words. He picked up another piece of food and replied, “Let’s all eat more so that big brother doesn’t have to wait impatiently!”

Father Chen and Chen Ama burst into laughter upon hearing this. Chen Qi didn’t mind. He continued to play the pitiful role, which made everyone at the table laugh even more. Chen Hong’s charming face bloomed like a camellia in the mountains, exuding beauty.

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Thingyan: “Well, well, well, are you surprised for a full new chapter?”

Pulling her imaginary beard, the translator spoke in a tone of an old Chinese Wuxia master. She then vowed to her readers respectfully and thanked them for their support.

He he he!

Xu Qing didn’t go straight home after getting off the donkey cart at the end of the village. Instead, he went to Xie Ama’s house.

“Xie Ama, this is the osmanthus cake that I bought at the market. You and Uncle Xie should try it too!”

Xu Qing placed the package he had in his hand directly on the table in Xie Ama’s main room before sitting down next to Xie Ama.

“I’m telling you, you’re about to start spending money soon. Don’t be so extravagant! If you keep this up, Xie Ama won’t be happy!” Although Xie Ama felt warm inside, he couldn’t tolerate Xu Qing’s behavior. He was about to start a family, and they would have expenses in the future!

Xu Qing playfully tugged at the red ceremonial dress on Xie Ama’s knee and smiled. “I know, I know! From now on, even if you want me to buy something, I’ll consider it carefully!”

Xie Ama smiled and scolded Xu Qing with a glance but didn’t refuse. This child had a grateful heart, and he remembered every favor.

“Oh, you bought medicine? How is it? What did the doctor say?”

Xie Ama saw the medicine package that Xu Qing placed on the stool and anxiously asked.

“Oh! The doctor said I have excessive liver fire, which is why these things appeared. But lately, it’s been getting much better! So I only spent two hundred wen on the medicine, and the doctor said it will be fine after finishing it! I estimate that it will be better before getting married!”

Xu Qing’s words left Xie Ama at a loss for words.

“This! This is really great! Fantastic!” You see, Brother Qing was tormented by these things on his face! People would call him “ugly ger!” just to mock and tease him. Xu Qing’s father had no choice but to move their house down to the foot of the mountain, and it took Xu Qing this long to settle his marriage!

Translated on ho lo lo novels dot com.

“This is wonderful. If your father and Ama could know about this from afterlife, they would truly be at peace!” Xie Ama couldn’t help but shed tears. He looked at Xu Qing before him, and in his heart, he had finally let go of that worry. He had always been afraid that after the marriage, Li Changfeng would become dissatisfied or unhappy with Xu Qing’s appearance. But now, things were different, and he could finally put his mind at ease.

Xu Qing hurriedly put down the red ceremonial dress in his hand and wiped away Xie Ama’s tears. His original intention was just to reassure Xie Ama, but now, seeing Xie Ama’s state, his heart trembled.

“I-I’m almost healed, right? Don’t cry, Xie Ama, please don’t cry…”

Unconsciously, Xu Qing’s voice began to choke up. He was an orphan, and besides being treated sincerely in the orphanage, only Xie Ama and Uncle Xie treated him with genuine care after he came here.

At first, he was only a little closer to Xie Ama because of the gratitude he felt towards his original self for his kindness. But after spending so much time here, Xie Ama and Uncle Xie genuinely cared for him. For someone without family or connections, this was so precious!

“What’s going on? What’s going on here? Why are both of you crying?”

As soon as Uncle Xie entered the room, he heard something amiss. When did Brother Qing come? His wife was just smiling happily, so why did he suddenly start crying?

“Is the Li boy regretting the marriage?! I’ll go find him!”

Xie Ama quickly retorted, “Can’t you say something positive?”

Xu Qing also felt a little embarrassed and lowered his head, adjusting his appearance. He was surprised that he ended up crying along with Xie Ama.

Uncle Xie couldn’t quite understand the situation and asked, “Why are you both crying?”

Xu Qing quickly repeated what he had just said to Xie Ama. Uncle Xie was also pleased to hear the news. He said, “This is indeed good news. Although it’s not a big deal if your face turns red sometimes, but you gers always make a fuss over every little blemish on your face! Haha!”

“Go out and cook!”

Xie Ama, who no longer had any sentimental feelings at the moment due to Uncle Xie’s interference, said, “Brother Qing, you’ll have dinner here today with me! Don’t refuse, or I won’t be happy!”

Xu Qing had no choice but to agree. He looked at Uncle Xie’s departing figure and admired, “You two have such a great relationship!”

Translated on ho lo lo novels dot com.

“In the beginning, I didn’t know how it happened, but I chose your Uncle Xie. I’m a straightforward person, and fortunately, he turned out to be a good fit.” Xie Ama cut the thread, making Xu Qing stand up and gesture with the man’s wedding attire. “Hmm, not bad. Don’t worry about it being a bit long. When Changfeng wears it, it will hang down a bit, so it’ll be just right. This one is done!”

Xu Qing happily gestured back and forth, but unfortunately, there was no mirror, so he couldn’t see himself. “How did you make Li Changfeng’s clothes?” he asked. He hadn’t seen Xie Ama measure Li Changfeng’s size.

“It’s simple. I asked Butcher Liu’s family about it. I made sure it would fit him. I can’t afford to embarrass myself, can I?” Xie Ama continued to finish the groom’s attire. This outfit was relatively simple and elegant, and he finished it much faster than Xu Qing’s. It was done in no time.

Xu Qing took it and tried it on himself. “Ah, it’s so long!” If Xie Ama hadn’t been quick to hold onto a portion, it would have dragged on the ground.

Xie Ama helped fold the two outfits neatly. “Well, Li Changfeng is tall and sturdy, a real man! Compared to you, he’s much taller and stronger than you, lad! By the way, you can take the outfit you’re wearing back later. I’ll have Uncle Xie give Li Changfeng’s outfit to Butcher Liu’s family to take it back.”

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Thingyan: It’s no-study-Monday today lol. I have been so busy past week that I couldn’t reply to the comments from my lovely readers. It’s all in the past now; I’m back to being the happy woman that I am 😀

Although today is not market day, the streets are still bustling with people. Peddlers are selling their goods everywhere, and the restaurants are open as usual. It’s a lively scene.

“Hey, from the Yang family, you’re here at the market today too?”

A slightly thin Ger called out to another ger not far from him.

“I wondered who had such a loud voice! So it’s someone from the Zhang family? I came to sell the embroidered handkerchiefs I finished last time. Oh, I remember you bought some around the same time as me! Did yours turn out well too?”

The ger from the Zhang family walked past Xu Qing and started chatting with the Yang family member.

“That’s right. I’m here to sell handkerchiefs too. If that’s the case, we can accompany each other when we go out! By the way,” Zhang family ger looked around and didn’t see anyone familiar before asking in a low voice.

“Do you know about the Li family separation last night? “

As soon as the Yang family Ger heard the words “family separation,” he knew it was worth listening to!

“Oh my, I really don’t know! What happened? Why did they split? Tell me!” Li’s third son, who passed the scholar’s exam, was unwilling to teach the village children at a low price, which made many people in the village have opinions about the Li family!

Zhang family Ger was pleased to have piqued the curiosity of the Yang family Ger. Chattering away, he gestured and explained.

“I heard that Li’s second son is going to marry into another family, so Li’s third son made him split from the family! He even left with nothing! Tsk tsk, Li’s third son can be so ruthless!”

“Really? But Li’s third son is a scholar. Isn’t he afraid of damaging his reputation? How will he continue to pursue higher ranks in the future?” Although his words were full of regret, his expression was perfectly in place. Xu Qing would have give him a 9.9 out of 10, if not for fearing he might become too proud!

“Pah, someone like him becoming a scholar is not such a big deal!”

Translated on ho lo lo novels dot com.

The Yang family ger covered his mouth and chuckled, “Hehe,” as he laughed. “But from what you’re saying, did the old Li couple agree to it?”

“They sure did. It was just last night. Someone saw Li Zheng and a few other uncles from the Li family going to their courtyard!” Zhang family ger casually adjusted his hair and said with certainty.

“I trust you. Every time I hear news from you, it’s always accurate!” Zhang family ger walked with a spring in his step, pleased with the praise from his companion.

Watching their departing figures, Xu Qing also understood something.

***

On the back mountain of Jixiang Village, Li Changfeng was climbing up the mountain with a knife in his hand. There was a dark-skinned man in a black short-sleeved shirt by his side, around the same age as Li Changfeng.

Chen Qi recalled the rumors circulating in the village and the confirmation he just received from Li Changfeng, feeling uneasy in his heart.

“I just don’t understand. Why do you want to leave with nothing? If I were you…”

Without turning his head, Li Changfeng continued walking. “If you were me, what would you do?”

Chen Qi rolled up his pant legs and picked up the machete lying beside his foot. “If I were you! I would stay in that family, not split! I would annoy him every day with my presence!” He had witnessed how Li Changfeng had endured during their time in the military camp!

Seeing that Li Changfeng remained silent and continued walking, disregarding everything, Chen Qi grew anxious and caught up to him, speaking with an urgent tone. “Don’t you know what people in the village are saying?!”

“What are they saying?”

As soon as Li Changfeng showed a reaction, Chen Qi immediately relayed all the rumors he had heard in the village. To verify the truthfulness of these rumors, he even patted his own chest.

“As soon as I got up this morning, my mother and younger brother were discussing it. Your third brother, because of that incident with Wang’s son, can’t stand you anymore and wants to split you from the family! Once we step outside, you have no idea. Everyone is talking about your family’s affairs!

To confirm if these rumors are true, he thought of ways to make Li Changfeng join him in chopping firewood on the mountain, just to see if Li Laosan was really that heartless!

“As a result, you’re telling me that it’s all true! And you yourself suggested leaving with nothing. I really can’t understand.”

Li Changfeng turned his head and stared at Chen Qi with a steady gaze, making Chen Qi feel a bit numb all over. “What are you looking at? Did I say something wrong?”

“Isn’t there any gossip in the village about me and Laosan’s wife?”

Chen Qi thought for a moment. “They mentioned Li Laosan’s actions because of Li Wangshi’s situation, but they didn’t specifically mention you and Li Wangshi.”

Li Changfeng’s eyes gradually deepened. “And they didn’t mention my suggestion of leaving with nothing?”

Chen Qi nodded confidently. “Of course not. Since you didn’t mention it to me, I didn’t take it seriously! Who would suggest such a thing themselves!”

“What does that have to do with your suggestion of splitting the family? Don’t change the subject! Speak up, it’s driving me crazy!”

“Don’t leave! You haven’t said anything yet! Second Li! Li Changfeng!!”

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Li Ama knew that everyone’s hearts were not calm tonight, and he didn’t argue with Old man Li as usual. He brought out the wine.

“Eldest brother, second brother, third brother, come, fill up your cups!”

Li Changfeng and the others stepped forward and filled up their bowls one by one, then returned to their seats, waiting for Old man Li to speak. As for Li Ama and the wives and children, they didn’t say a word and didn’t start eating.

“Today, this evening! I won’t say much, but after you drink this bowl of wine, the past will be forgotten between you three! You are brothers connected by blood! Remember this phrase! Come, drink!”

Old man Li picked up his bowl and drank it all in one go, without even pausing!

Seeing Old man Li finish and looking at the three of them, Eldest Li took the lead and clinked his bowl with Li Changfeng and Li Laosan. “Come on, today let’s drink to our heart’s content!”

“Good! Cheers!”

“Cheers!”

Li Changfeng drank his bowl without frowning, wiped his mouth, and said, “Father’s wine is still the best, it’s strong enough!”

Li Laosan picked up a piece of food and put it in his mouth. Hearing this, he smiled and agreed, “Exactly, even the wine sold outside is not as tasty as the one brewed by Father!”

Li Changfeng chuckled and refilled their wine bowls. “Third brother, let’s clink our cups together. When I get married, I’ll rely on you to write a new couplet for our wedding!”

After a husband and wife get married, they would invite someone to write a couplet at their doorstep, symbolizing the beginning of a new life!

Translated on ho lo lo novels dot com.

Li Laosan quickly responded, “That’s for sure! If there’s any couplet needed for festivals or special occasions in the future, just let me know! I’m here!”

Li Ama nudged Old man Li with his elbow and said, “It seems like this separation isn’t such a bad thing after all.”

Old man Li looked at his three sons showing mutual respect, and then glanced at Li Wangshi, who was feeding the children, and Eldest Li’s wife. He nodded and said, “I just hope that this second son’s wife will also be a good one.”

It was getting dark, but the atmosphere didn’t feel heavy. The wind blowing gently wasn’t as piercing as it had been a few days ago. Spring was already arriving.

Xu Qing was discussing the auspicious day for his marriage with Xie Ama. When they finished eating, Uncle Xie left to go feed the piglets at home, leaving Xie Ama and Xu Qing to discuss the chosen date.

“The 28th of this month is a good day for marriage. It’s auspicious, and many families in the village choose to celebrate on that day!” Xie Ama thought it was a suitable date.

“Do we need to invite people to the wedding banquet, or will they come on their own?” Xu Qing was concerned about this issue. Besides being familiar with Xie Ama’s family, he had only briefly met Wei Ama, and he didn’t know the others well. He was afraid of mistaking someone if they came to the banquet.

“That’s not necessary. It’s unnecessary trouble. Usually, the guests who come to the banquet are the ones who escort the groom to the bride’s home. Of course, close relations can also be invited,” Xie Ama patiently explained to Xu Qing.

Xu Qing looked at the date of the 28th and said, “Today is the 20th, right? That means there are only eight days left?!”

Xie Ama chuckled, “That’s right, time flies!”

Seeing Xu Qing still hesitating, Xie Ama grew a bit anxious. “You better think it through. Men who just returned from the military are quite in demand. If you delay, be careful that Li Changfeng catches someone’s attention!”

Upon hearing this, Xu Qing, without thinking twice, said, “Then let’s go with the 28th!”

It’s not easy to find someone you like, and you can’t let them slip away when they’re within reach!

“Great! The 28th it is! Oh, by the way, I’ve almost finished making your wedding attire. It just needs some final touches. I’ll bring it to you the day after tomorrow,” Xie Ama happily calculated the days for Xu Qing. “And, when you get married, you must invite *Li Zheng’s family!”

*T/N: Li Zheng = Village head

Xu Qing clapped his hands together. “Once again, Xie Ama has thought of everything!” Building a good relationship with Li Zheng is definitely a good thing!

“But with so many people getting married that day, Li Zheng might be too busy!” When he heard that many couples would be getting married on that day, he was sure they would all want to invite Li Zheng.

Xie Ama gave Xu Qing a playful hit. “Why are you being foolish again? Whether you invite him or not is your business, whether he comes or not is his business! Why bother about it so much!”

Xu Qing didn’t take offense and nodded with a smile. “Also, what kind of dishes should we have at the banquet? I need to make some preparations!”

“Since you aren’t inviting many guests, each table should have six dishes: one meat dish, four vegetable dishes, and one soup!”

“One meat dish?!” Xu Qing couldn’t believe it. Just one meat dish for a wedding banquet?!

Xie Ama restrained himself from intervening. “Listen, we’re just a humble household. Having one meat dish is already respectable. I only said that because I saw the Li family lad giving you some money! You should know that some households…”

Xie Ama clicked his tongue twice and, under Xu Qing’s puzzled gaze, listed the dishes for the banquet. “Three vegetable dishes, one soup!”

Xu Qing’s mouth nearly formed an “O” shape. Oh my, was this for real?

“If you’re planning for a banquet with one meat dish as you mentioned, how much money will it cost per table?” He needed to estimate how much money he would need and figure out a solution if it wasn’t enough.

“It will cost 30 wen per table, so don’t worry about it. At that time, I’ll call that person from the Wei family, and also Liu Ama from my mother’s village. We’ll cook together and make sure everything is well taken care of for you!”

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Thingyan: Thank you for reading :-*

Li Xiao’er had no choice but to calm down. What could he do if he went out? Father even hit Third Brother. If he went out to argue for Second Brother, and if that got spread around, it would tarnish his reputation! No one likes a meddling ger who interferes in his elder brother’s affairs at his maternal house!

“Sit down.”

Li Ama gave a sharp look to Li Xiao’er, who hesitated, but as soon as he obediently sat down, Li Ama expression improved a bit.

Old man Li shook off Eldest Li’s hand and gritted his teeth angrily at Li Laosan, who had a face full of grievances. “You better explain it clearly to me today! Where did your Second Brother wrong you?! Explain it clearly to me! Otherwise, I’ll kill you, you beast!”

Li Laosan gasped for breath. He looked at Li Changfeng standing at the courtyard gate, and just as he was about to speak, he caught a glimpse of the pleading look in his own wife’s eyes. Him! Him! He couldn’t bring himself to say it!

“Second Brother! Second Brother… he didn’t wrong me.”

Li Laosan squatted down in a daze. How could he say it? That Second Brother had feelings for his wife? But Second Brother hadn’t done anything intimate with Li Wangshi. Even when they ate together as a family, Second Brother always sat at the farthest seat to avoid suspicion. To say that his wife had feelings for Second Brother? But he had married him and even gave birth to a child!

Second Brother didn’t wrong him! When he was young, it was Second Brother who half-raised him. It was he who used his literacy skills to secretly change the name on the conscription list. It was he who used his reputation as a scholar to convince the Wang family to marry their son to him. It was him! It was him who wronged Second Brother!

Li Laosan couldn’t speak, his eyes red. He wanted to admit his mistake but also felt unwilling. He knew very well who was right and who was wrong, but he couldn’t bring himself to admit that he was the one at fault!

Eldest Li looked at Li Laosan’s state and couldn’t bear it either. Before Li Xiao’er was born, Li Laosan was the youngest. With Old man Li and Li Ama busy, he was already a half-grown child, working alongside them. So Li Laosan could be said to have grown up hand in hand with Li Changfeng!

“Father, Third Brother knows he was wrong. Don’t be angry anymore.”

Li Laosan listened to Eldest Li saying he was wrong and instinctively wanted to defend himself. But when he opened his mouth, it felt like his throat was choked, and he couldn’t utter a word!

Old man Li sighed heavily, sat down on the stool that Eldest Li had arranged, and looked at Li Wangshi, who hadn’t said a word from beginning to end. Oh, what a calamity! It was his momentary softness that caused the current dysfunction in the family!

“Second Brother, speak up too. Why do you want to separate the family?”

When Li Changfeng heard Li Laosan saying that he hadn’t wronged him, Li Changfeng had already completely let go of the grudges and grievances between the three of them. Previously, he let go of his feelings for Li Wangshi, and now, he let go of the betrayal and disharmony between them as brothers.

“I have two reasons for wanting to separate the family.” Now, whether it was Li Ama and Li Xiao’er in the room or Old man Li outside, they all pricked up their ears to understand why Li Changfeng would propose to separate the family.

“First, I want to marry out. So, I must enter the new household without any baggage to avoid unnecessary disputes with my wife in the future. Second…” Li Changfeng looked around at everyone, “You’ve all heard the village rumors. As long as I don’t leave this house, it will always exist!”

Eldest Li didn’t quite understand, “A righteous person has nothing to fear from a crooked shadow!”

Li Changfeng shook his head. “We may not be afraid, but our younger brother hasn’t gotten married yet. Big Brother, Third Brother, you both have children. Children are sensitive, and they understand what others say, which doesn’t make them feel good! So I want to separate the family, but I still have the responsibility to support Father and Mother. I won’t forget about that!”

“That’s right! Yang Huzi from the Yang family always mocks our family, saying that his mother says our family is not decent!”

Eldest Li’s second son muttered, complaining to Li Ama and Li Xiao’er!

“Don’t listen to those cheap talkers!” Li Ama scolded the child, and everyone in the courtyard could hear it clearly.

Li Wangshi hung his head, silently shedding tears. What could he do? Li Changfeng was suddenly sent off for military service without even a goodbye. He was not young anymore, and if he didn’t get married…!

Translated on ho lo lo novels dot com.

The following year, Li Laosan passed the imperial examination and privately visited the Wang family to propose marriage. They were overjoyed because he was now the wife of a scholar!

At first, Li Wangshi was hesitant, but he couldn’t resist the sweet and persuasive words of Li Laosan. He was different from the reserved Li Changfeng. As time went on, with the silent consent of Li Wangshi, it didn’t take long for Li Laosan to visit the Wang family and propose marriage. It’s unclear what Li Laosan said to Li Ama and Old man Li, but it happened.

After getting married, Li Laosan treated Li Wangshi well. Although he was not very skilled in work and had a somewhat scholarly demeanor, Li Wangshi was satisfied. However, things became awkward when Li Changfeng returned to the village. Even when washing clothes by the river, he faced gossip from his once friendly relatives and neighbors, with their unpleasant remarks filling his ears.

Li Laosan noticed the unusual behavior of Li Wangshi. He stood up, walked over to his side, and embraced his shoulder. He wiped his wife’s face and felt the wetness of his tears.

Li Ama took Li Xiao’er and the children out of the main room and exchanged glances with Old man Li. After a moment of silence, Li Ama spoke up.

“Eldest Brother, go invite the village head and several clan uncles!”

Eldest Li opened his mouth to speak, but when he saw Li Xiao’er and the children behind him, he sighed and walked out of the courtyard.

“Eldest’s wife and Third son’s wife, go prepare the food. Xiao’er, take the children to go pick vegetables. Second son, Third son, come into the main room.”

Following Li Ama’s instructions, everyone went about their tasks. It was getting late, and usually by this time, they would have started their meal. They wondered if the children were hungry.

Inside the main room, Li Ama went back to his room, Old man Li sat at the head, smoking his pipe in silence, while Li Changfeng and Li Laosan remained silent.

After a while, Li Ama came out with an old-fashioned money pouch in his hand and directly stuffed it into Li Changfeng’s arms. “There is a total of forty-five taels of silver in the house, including the ten taels you gave earlier. If you want a clean break, you have to accept this money before I agree.”

Li Changfeng stopped pushing the pouch back and accepted it.

Seeing Li Changfeng taking the money, Li Ama’s expression softened, and he continued, “Out of these forty-five taels, your father and I will take eight taels, and the four of you brothers should each receive ten taels. However, considering that Eldest Brother has more children, he will receive twelve taels, and since your Third Brother also have a child, he will receive ten taels. Xiao’er will use eight taels for dowry and wedding expenses. Therefore, Second son, you will receive seven taels of silver. Third son, do you have anything to say?”

After Li Ama finished speaking, the previously silent Li Laosan asked, “Only Second Brother wants to split up the family, but Big Brother and I don’t need to, right?”

“Of course not. I’m just telling you the amount of money you should receive, so you have an idea in your hearts. It’s a matter of accountability to your loved ones.”

“Father! Ama! Village head and several clan uncles have arrived!”

Eldest Li’s voice came from the courtyard, and Li Ama and Old man Li hurriedly stood up and went out to welcome them.

Village head was a man in his forties, slender and with a small beard. The three clan uncles were all in their seventies, and in the Li family clan, they were considered respectable elders.

After welcoming Village head and the others into the main room, they lit an oil lamp and served their homegrown tea.

“It’s so late, and it’s really troubling for Village head and the clan uncles to come all this way. But if we don’t resolve this matter today, the village gossip will only increase, which is harmful to our Li family clan.”

Old man Li handed the tobacco to Village head and the clan uncles, speaking up.

Village head recalled the rumors in the village and looked at Li Changfeng and Li Laosan standing behind Eldest Li, pondering for a moment. “So, how do you intend to handle this matter?”

“By splitting up!”

Old man Li said firmly.

The clan uncles exchanged a glance and nodded silently. This was the best solution. Not to mention Old man Li’s family, if such rumors spread, it wouldn’t just harm their family’s reputation but also the entire Li family clan. The clan uncles had many grandchildren, and there were quite a few unmarried grandsons and gers among them.

Village head stroked his small beard, nodded, and thought to himself that he had actually intended to discuss this matter separately with Old man Li. After all, the vivid and detailed rumors, if they continued for too long, would not be good for the village as a whole.

The clan uncle sitting on the left side of Village head was the first to bring up the topic. “So, how do you plan to divide? How will you split it?”

Li Changfeng heard this and walked up to Village head and the others, respectfully bowing as a junior.

“It’s the junior who wants to split up and leave the family!” Before anyone could ask, Li Changfeng explained to Village head and the others the reasons why he wanted to split up and leave the family.

“…So, I voluntarily want to separate and leave the family. I hope that Village head and the clan uncles can understand and agree!”

After having a private conversation with Village head and the clan uncles, as well as discussing it with Old man Li and Li Ama, Village head and the clan uncles ultimately decided to be the witnesses of this family split.

Li Laosan wrote the separation agreement, and Village head and the clan uncles signed it, making two copies. In the end, Li Changfeng had Li Laosan add one more clause: “As long as the elderly couple of the Li family is alive, Li Changfeng will bear the responsibility of supporting them and will not refuse!”

This action pleased Village head and the clan uncles. Even Old man Li and Li Ama, who had doubts about the family split, felt relieved. Second son was a man of benevolence and righteousness.

Village head and the clan uncles politely declined Li Ama’s offer to stay for a meal and returned to their respective homes. As soon as they left, the atmosphere in the Li family became somewhat sour.

“The food is ready, bring it all to the table! The children must be hungry!”

Upon hearing this, Eldest Li’s wife and Li Wangshi brought the dishes to the table, and with their own children, they joined their husbands at the table. Old man Li sat at the head of the table and said, “Bring me my wine!”

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Thingyan: Ai, didn’t want to study so, I ended up finishing the whole chapter lol. Please enjoy 😀

P.S. If you’re reading this message, I just wanna let you know that I really appreciate your support on my first ever translation project 🙂

“That’s Sichuan peppercorn powder! It helps reduce the fishy smell!” Xu Qing explained. He had already ground the Sichuan peppercorns picked from the mountain into powder, making it convenient to use. After adding an appropriate amount of Sichuan peppercorn powder, Xu Qing sprinkled some of the spices he bought last time with Xie Ama, which resembled chili but wasn’t spicy—more of a numbing sensation.

“Sichuan peppercorn? What’s that?” Xie Ama had never heard of it before.

“It’s a seasoning. I planted a Sichuan peppercorn tree, so next year, we can see if there are any saplings. You can also plant some for convenience.”

“Alright! Oh, you’re using so much oil!” Xie Ama saw the amount of oil in the pot, which could last his family for three days, and felt a pang of heartache.

“Haha, well, I like using plenty of oil!” Xu Qing chuckled, causing Xie Ama to roll his eyes. Who doesn’t like using plenty of oil? “But you should save some for later. We have to be mindful of the long term when it comes to living our lives.”

“Alright, Xie Ama, make the fire smaller for me. I’m going to add water!”

As Xu Qing poured enough water into the pot, he also added a few drops of spiritual spring water. Xie Ama had a difficult early life and suffered from lingering health issues. This was an opportunity to help them improve his health. Moreover, the fish had also been soaked in spiritual spring water before, so it was enough.

Once the water boiled, Xu Qing put the fish head into the pot first because it takes longer to cook.

Gradually, a fragrance spread through the air, captivating Xie Ama. “It smells so good! Brother Qing, you’re really talented!”

Xu Qing didn’t modestly reject the compliment. “Of course! Everything I make tastes delicious!” He lacked some seasoning, but the advantage lay in the natural and fresh ingredients, coupled with the spiritual spring water, making the flavor naturally exquisite.

As the time for eating grew near, Xu Qing used three large bowls to scoop out all the fish from the pot.

Xu Qing handed a pair of chopsticks to Xie Ama. “Here, have a taste!”

Xie Ama didn’t hesitate and directly picked up a piece of fish that seemed to have few bones. He carefully took a bite and exclaimed, “Mmm! It’s delicious, really delicious! It tastes better than pork, so tender!” Xie Ama’s eyes were gleaming as he spat out the fish bones. This was meat! This was food!

“I told you, didn’t I? You eat first, and I’ll cook the rice.” Xu Qing, eager to prove the deliciousness of the fish to Xie Ama, had forgotten about cooking the rice. The fishy smell in the pot was strong, and it needed a good wash.

“What are you cooking rice for? I have rice at home! Just as I came to find you, Uncle Xie had just finished cooking it! It must be ready by now. Let’s bring it over!” Xie Ama was overjoyed and stopped Xu Qing from thinking about cooking. He hurried back home.

“In that case, I won’t hold back. It’s perfect timing to have Uncle Xie join us for dinner!”

“I know, I know!” Xie Ama replied from a distance.

As Xie Ama left, Xu Qing turned around and saw the fish innards he were about to throw away near the well. “Looks like I’ll have to get a dog or a cat!” Otherwise, it would be a waste.

Before Xie Ama and Uncle Xie arrived, Xu Qing washed the pot several times to ensure there was no fishy smell. Then he poured in water, heating it up for the evening bath, and used the hot water from before to clean his hands.

Not long after, Uncle Xie arrived with a wooden basin in hand, following Xie Ama. “Haha, your Ama told me that Brother Qing made some delicious thorny fish. Today, I shamelessly brought my own meal!”

“Enough with the nonsense, come in quickly, Uncle Xie, Xie Ama! The fish will taste bad if it gets cold!”

With happiness on one side, Xu Qing enjoyed the delicious fish, while on the other side, Li Changfeng’s family meeting was anything but peaceful!

“Do you know that this won’t benefit you in any way?”

As soon as Old man Li returned home, Li Ama pulled him aside to talk about Li Changfeng’s desire to seperate. Old man Li was not as calm as Li Ama, and Eldest Li and his wife were also surprised. Li Laosan was pleasantly surprised throughout, while Li Wangshi kept his head down, expressionless.

“I know,” Li Changfeng said, staring at Old man Li.

Old man Li took a drag of his dry cigarette, his face weathered with the marks of time showing some distress. “Our Li family has never split apart like this before!”

Li Changfeng remained silent, his narrow eyes filled with determination.

“Third son, what do you think?” Old man Li called out to Li Laosan without even looking at him.

Li Laosan patted the dirt and dust off his body. “Let’s split, it’s already a mess!”

Li Wangshi remained silent, and the eyes of Eldest Li’s wife flickered.

Although Eldest Li was the eldest, he was kind-hearted and honest. He still couldn’t understand why his second brother wanted to split up the family.

“A mess? You were the one who caused this mess!!” Old man Li grabbed the stool he was sitting on and threw it directly at Li Laosan. Li Laosan hurriedly dodged, narrowly avoiding being hit!

“Father!” Li Laosan couldn’t believe that his father would lay hands on him!

“Father! Let’s talk it out calmly!” Eldest Li held back Old man Li and tried to persuade him, while Li Changfeng remained silent. He had already made up his mind to split the family so he could enter the Xu family door as soon as possible!

This was the first time Eldest Li’s wife had seen his father-in-law angry, and he felt a bit scared. He glanced at the constantly lowered head of Li Wangshi and felt uneasy. If it weren’t for third brother’s wife, this family wouldn’t have ended up in such a situation!

Li Xiao’er and Li Ama sat in the main room, while the obedient children stood quietly on the side, listening to the commotion outside. When Old man Li used the stool to attack Li Laosan, Li Xiao’er wanted to go but was grabbed by Li Ama and not allowed to go outside. “You, an unmarried ger, don’t get involved in such matters!”

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