Chapter 1004: Deng Shi

 Chapter 231: The Plan Falls Through, Mo Fu Goes to School (6)

Usually, fruit trees would bloom in the second year, but they rarely bore fruit, and even if they did, the fruit wouldn't be of good quality. Although the spiritual spring water could produce excellent fruit, if the fruit trees bore fruit before they were fully grown, it would affect their growth and development.

"Alright, it's settled then!" Liu Tinglan happily agreed.

The two of them walked around for a while before heading to Aunt Tong's house to inquire about the fruit saplings.

Uncle Tong was sitting inside weaving bamboo baskets. Upon seeing the young landlord, he hurriedly tried to stand up.

"Uncle Tong, please sit down. There's no need for such formality."

Mo Yan quickly stopped him. Uncle Tong's health wasn't good, and his legs were weak, making it easy for him to fall if he tried to stand up.

Uncle Tong knew his own condition, so he didn't insist and just let Mo Yan and the other person sit as they pleased.

Mo Yan sat on a small stool. Not seeing Aunt Tong and Xiao Qing, she asked, "Where are Aunt Tong and Xiao Qing?"

Uncle Tong, still weaving bamboo baskets, replied, "They went to weed the other orchard."

Mo Yan nodded, "Are there many weeds? If Aunt Tong can't manage, I can find someone to help. Xiao Qing is still young, don't let him get too tired."

The family had been busy these days, so she hadn't had time to check the other mountain.

Uncle Tong smiled gratefully at her, "Not too many, just a few patches that grew after the recent rain. They can handle it."

Hearing this, Mo Yan said no more. Seeing how finely and sturdily Uncle Tong's baskets were woven, she curiously asked, "Uncle Tong, how much can you sell one of these baskets for?"

"One can sell for four to five copper coins!" Uncle Tong smiled contentedly.

Liu Tinglan then asked, "And how many can you weave in a day?"

Uncle Tong, seeing her dressed unusually well and feeling somewhat restrained, replied, "Miss, I can weave two a day."

Liu Tinglan calculated and found that working all day only earned ten copper coins, which added up to just two or three hundred a month, not even enough to buy a box of her face cream.

"Why don't you sell these excellent baskets for a bit more?"

Uncle Tong's eyes widened, "Selling for four to five copper coins is already good. If it's more expensive, no one will buy it."

In rural households, everyone knows how to weave baskets. Those who buy them are usually merchants who use them for packing goods. With so many people weaving baskets, they aren't worth much. Uncle Tong's baskets sell for four to five copper coins because they are sturdy and durable.

Liu Tinglan didn't know this and just felt that Uncle Tong's way of earning money was hard. She thought about how she spent no less than ten taels of silver monthly on clothes and accessories. Even though her father had a decent monthly salary and their family business brought in some income, it now seemed rather extravagant.

Before long, Aunt Tong returned with a hoe and her grandson, Xiao Qing.

Mo Yan asked about the saplings' condition, and Aunt Tong gave a detailed account. It was already August, not the peak season for pests on saplings, so regular weeding and watering sufficed.

Aunt Tong had gradually figured out the habits of many saplings and explained everything clearly to Mo Yan.

Mo Yan nodded in satisfaction, secretly pleased to have found someone as capable as Aunt Tong, which saved her a lot of trouble.

By the time they left Aunt Tong's house, it was already evening. On their way down the mountain, they happened to meet Xiao Hua returning from the woods.

Xiao Hua had a bad temper. With many people at home today, Mo Yan had driven it to the mountain early in the morning to prevent any mischievous children from provoking it and getting hurt.

As soon as Xiao Hua saw her, it rushed over, opened its big mouth, and spat out a fluffy bundle.

Next Chapter▶▶

  Chapter 249 Taken Away

As soon as Bai Zhenhai's words fell, Gao Yang nervously asked, "Can we pay in two installments?"

He didn't have that much money in his bank account, nor on his phone.

"It's possible." The clerk brought the payment machine in front of him. Gao Yang first paid six hundred thousand by scanning the code, then took out a card and swiped it for seven hundred thousand...

The people around seemed to treat this as a joke and dispersed after watching, going back to shopping...

There were few left who stayed to watch the commotion.

"Director Zhang, can we talk in private?" Bai Zhenhai stepped forward with a forced smile, ignoring the people around him, "QY and the Bai family used to be good friends. I wonder if there was any misunderstanding later on..."

"Good friends?" Zhang Daxin sneered at Bai Zhenhai's daydreaming, interrupting his words, "If it weren't for Boss's orders in the past, would QY have cooperated with you? Your little company doesn't have much weight in QY's eyes."

Bai Zhenhai's face froze.

Boss's orders??

Could it be that Ou Yan really helped them behind the scenes... No, it couldn't be!!

Ou Yan was just a few years old!

How could she be related to QY??

"Boss's orders??" Bai Zhenhai couldn't believe it. "So, it's really Ou Yan helping us behind the scenes... No, it's impossible! Ou Yan is just a few years old!"

"If it weren't for Boss's help behind the scenes, your ability would be barely enough to handle the Winter City's first deficit. Negative deficit!" Zhang Daxin's words hit Bai Zhenhai like a heavy blow. If it weren't for Ou Yan's help, they might have even faced a deficit in the capital city!

Bai Zhenhai couldn't believe it!

How could Ou Yan be Qingyan?!

It's impossible!

How could she be Qingyan??

Even Xu Aiqin couldn't believe it. If Ou Yan was really Qingyan, then how could she work for the Li family's clothing company?

Was she there to steal trade secrets?

But the clothing company under the Li family was the least developed among all the industries owned by the Li family. Why would she leave her own QY to work for the Li family's small company?

It didn't make sense!

Gao Yang couldn't believe it either. Ou Yan being Qingyan...

She was already a piano master, which was shocking enough...

Recently, she got a perfect score in the college entrance examination, and now, she's the founder of QY, Qingyan...

How many identities did she have that others didn't know about?

Any one of them was much more outstanding than Yao Yao...

Thinking like this, Gao Yang glanced at Bai Muyao and suddenly felt that this girl was not presentable, not up to standard!

And Bai Muyao couldn't hide her shock, her chest rising and falling. She couldn't believe that Ou Yan was Qingyan...

"Director Zhang, are you kidding me..." Xu Aiqin smiled awkwardly, "How could she be Qingyan? She's just a few years old... What's your relationship with her? Did she give you some benefits to speak up for her?"

"If I'm not mistaken, the person who called the QY after-sales service hotline and requested senior management to come and handle this farce is your future son-in-law, right?" Zhang Daxin interrupted, implying that Ou Yan didn't have time to discuss this play with him in advance!

Bai's family lost all the color in their faces and were shocked.

Indeed...

If it weren't for Gao Yang making that call, Zhang Daxin wouldn't have come, and Ou Yan's identity wouldn't have been exposed...

But how could Ou Yan be Qingyan!

It's impossible!

The mall manager cleared his throat and said seriously, "Our CEO has said that QY is the most important partner of our company. Now, if you dare to cause trouble in Chengguang Tiandi and show disrespect to Miss Yan, I announce that the four of you are banned from entering our mall from now on!"

As long as their faces were recognized, whenever they entered or exited Chengguang Tiandi, the machine would sound an alarm, and the security would intercept them.

"Manager, please, let's talk it out..."

Bai Zhenhai's words were interrupted, and he heard Ou Yan making a call, "Mr. Jin, I want to sue Bai Muyao for defamation and rumor mongering multiple times. Yes, there is surveillance footage as evidence. She just damaged my reputation and dignity in front of many people. I demand her to stop infringing on my rights, whether it's a fine, detention, or a public apology... You handle it."

The Bai family was frightened at the thought of it.

Last time when Yao Yao plagiarized, Ou Yan wanted to take legal action, and in the end, they had to pay a large sum of money to settle the matter...

They had already experienced how powerful Ou Yan was...

Xu Aiqin was about to get angry, but when she thought of this girl's identity possibly being Qingyan, she became hesitant and dared not speak anymore.

"Yan Yan, we are all family, why make it like this..." Bai Zhenhai hurriedly tried to mediate.

Fines, they didn't have much money at hand now, they couldn't afford it!

Detention, how would Yao Yao get married in the future? Her reputation would be tarnished!

Public apology, that would be too embarrassing! They would never do it!

No matter what, they couldn't let Qingyan sue Yao Yao, otherwise, the Bai family would suffer too much!

"Yan Yan, let's talk nicely, we're all one family..."

"Who's your family?" Ou Yan couldn't be bothered with him and said lazily, "Manager Liu, these blacklisted customers seem to have no right to stay here, do they?"

Manager Liu reacted and quickly asked the security to escort them out!

In Chengguang Tiandi, a top luxury shopping mall, being escorted out by security, Xu Aiqin felt extremely embarrassed and shouted loudly, "Let go of me, I'll leave by myself..."

"What are you doing, let go!" Gao Yang couldn't break free from the security's grip and watched as Bai Muyao was taken away by two security guards, seeming to be in pain, "Let go of my fiancée, you've hurt her!"

"Yan Yan, listen to me, Yan Yan..." Bai Zhenhai was taken away, his voice getting farther and farther.

"Miss Yan, I'm really sorry. This happened in our Chengguang Tiandi, and I have an inescapable responsibility!" Manager Liu apologized in a hurry, bowing, "Our CEO is usually busy with thousands of tasks. For such a small matter, I won't bother him. Can you please give us some face and handle this matter..."

He wiped the sweat from his forehead, fearing that Ou Yan would tell Si Yechen about this, and he would lose his job.

"You did a good job." Ou Yan affirmed, "Don't worry, I won't tell him."

"Thank you, Miss Yan. Rest assured, I will never let such a thing happen again! With me covering for QY, if anyone dares to cause trouble on your turf, I won't let them off lightly!" Manager Liu nodded and bowed repeatedly, flattering for a while, before leaving.

"Boss, they didn't do anything to you just now, did they?" Zhang Daxin stepped forward a few steps, concerned.

"It's fine, you go about your business. I'll check today's turnover."

"Yes." Zhang Daxin, seeing nothing wrong, took a look around and left. Ou Yan walked towards the computer, opened it, and saw that in less than half a day, she had already earned 38 million!

Including the amount contributed by Gao Yang.

▶▶After breaking off the engagement, Mr. Si chased his wife to the crematorium!

Chapter 1003: Jiang Family Affairs

The little girl tilted her head and thought, "Which room does Xiao Ya'er is stay in? I want to stay next to her."

Zhou Qiao reached out and said, "Come on, let me show you."

Both Zhou Qiao and Da Niu had known since early on that the little girl would be staying at the estate. The Cui family's house could accommodate people, but the houses among the farmers were really far apart. It was inevitable for a five-year-old girl to live alone in a house, which naturally made people worry.

In addition, with the recent murder case, one of them being Xiao Ya'er's grandfather, the little girl was also frightened.

In any case, as she grew older or became less fearful, when the time came, she could move back to the Cui family's house.

Although Zhou Qiao had social anxiety, she quite liked children.

As soon as Shu Yu mentioned it to Da Niu, Zhou Qiao agreed.

After arriving at the estate, she immediately prepared Xiao Ya'er's room.

However, apart from a bed, bedding, and a wardrobe, there was nothing else in the room. Xiao Ya'er's belongings were still at the Cui family's house, so they would have to be moved later when she returned.

An Ning went with Zhou Qiao to see the room and then said, "I've decided not to stay next to Xiao Ya'er"

Zhou Qiao was puzzled. "Why?"

"This bed is big, so if I come here in the future, I'll stay with Ya'er." Anyway, even if she came often, she wouldn't be able to stay overnight frequently.

Staying for a day or two and having to trouble her sister-in-law to clean the room would be too troublesome.

Zhou Qiao thought that she had a good relationship with Xiao Ya'er, so she didn't say much.

By the time lunch was ready, Guo Shi returned with Xiao Ya'er.

The little girl's eyes were red, probably from crying again during the visit to pay respects.

After eating, An Ning accompanied Xiao Ya'er to pack their things, while Zhou Qiao and Guo Shi helped with the moving.

There weren't many belongings, just the child's clothes and daily necessities. They were all placed in a corner of the room.

Seeing that there was nothing else to do at the farmhouse, Shu Yu took An Ning back to the county.

It was the peak hour for leaving the city, so even after entering the city gates, the mule cart moved slowly.

Shu Yu lifted the curtain and looked outside, a smile forming on her lips. She was in a good mood today, thinking that the sunflowers would soon grow tall and mature. And once the alfalfa was planted, she could make money. With some income, she felt even more joyful.

The mule cart happened to reach the entrance of the Jixiang Liquor Shop, and Shu Yu suddenly raised her voice, "Stop the cart."

"Second Sister, what's wrong?" An Ning asked curiously, tilting her little head.

Shu Yu got off the cart and said to her, "Wait for me here. I'm going to the liquor shop to buy two jugs of wine."

The wine jugs at home seemed to be empty.

Come to think of it, she hadn't visited the Jixiang Liquor Shop since returning to Jiangyuan County.

Back then, the liquor shop was managed by only Jiang Yi and Deng Shi, and the shop was very small.

Now, it seemed that the Jixiang Liquor Shop had bought and connected the adjacent shop, expanding its storefront and undergoing renovations.

Ding Yue had told her that after she went to the southwest, the Jiang family suddenly fell into chaos.

Jiang Ren, who had driven his second and third brothers out, faced business failures everywhere. He had also accumulated a lot of debt and was said to have adulterated a large amount of water into the sold alcohol, angering many people.

The Jiang family's liquor business was declining, and Jiang Ren became a mouse that everyone despised.

Seeing that the business was not picking up and several shops were mortgaged but still not being redeemed, he simply ran away, leaving behind his son and wife, disappearing since then.

But his son was only twelve years old, a spoiled and unruly child who became directionless once his father ran away.

Next Chapter▶▶

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 Chapter 230: The Plan Falls Through, Mo Fu Goes to School (5)

After seeing off shopkeeper Xing and the reluctant Yun siblings from the Yun family, the Liu family of three also prepared to leave. However, Liu Tinglan insisted on staying at the Mo family's house for a while.

"You're already a big girl. It's not appropriate to stay overnight at someone else's house. Come on, be a good girl and go home with your parents," Master Liu urged.

But Madam Liu refused to leave and insisted on taking her daughter away.

"Mom, I don't want to go. I'm the only daughter at home, and it's boring without me. Mom, please let me stay at Yan Yan's house for a few days!"

Liu Tinglan broke free from her mother's grasp and pleaded with Mo Yan for help.

Mo Yan shook her head gently and gestured to her. This was something she couldn't decide on her own. It was better to let their family discuss it!

Liu Tinglan understood immediately and hurriedly pleaded with her father, "Dad, you love your daughter the most. Please let me stay here for a while!"

Master Liu was chatting with Mo Qingze. Upon hearing his daughter's words, he said to Madam Liu, "Since she doesn't want to leave, let her stay for two days. The day after tomorrow, I'll have Lao Fan come pick her up."

Since her husband had spoken, Madam Liu naturally couldn't object. She glared at her daughter, who looked pleased, but didn't say anything in the end.

Although Liu Tinglan was a bit disappointed that she could only stay for two days, she knew her father's temperament. Once he said something, there was no room for bargaining. Being able to stay for two days was already satisfying enough for her.

Before leaving, Master Liu said earnestly to Mo Qingze, "Ziyu, consider what I told you before. If you've made up your mind, you can come find me anytime."

Mo Qingze thanked him sincerely, "Thank you, Brother Canaan. I will definitely consider it seriously."

Master Liu nodded, bowed to Mo Qingze, and then boarded the carriage with his wife, gradually disappearing from the sight of the Mo family.

Once the carriage was out of sight, Mo Yan curiously asked, "Dad, what did Master Liu ask you to consider?"

Mo Qingze withdrew his gaze and his face showed excitement, "Brother Canaan encouraged me to go to the academy and take part in the township examination next year."

"Really? That's great!" Mo Yan said excitedly. "I've been thinking about this too, but there have been too many things at home, and I haven't had a chance to tell you. Now that Master Liu also encourages you to continue your studies, he must have great confidence in you. Dad, if you still want to continue studying, don't miss this opportunity!"

Unexpectedly, his daughter also strongly supported him. Mo Qingze, who had been somewhat hesitant before, became even more determined. However, as the head of the family, if he went to study at the academy, there would be no one to take care of the family.

After listening to his father's concerns, Mo Yan said helplessly, "There's still Grandpa Li at home, right? Xin'er and Zhen'er will also take good care of things. You can rest assured!"

Li Zhong also advised, "I'm still capable of working, and taking care of the fields and orchards isn't difficult. I'll arrange everything properly, so you don't have to worry."

Xin'er and Zhen'er also quickly said, "Dad, you can rest assured. We'll be good and obedient. We'll wait for you to pass the examination and become a jinshi."

With the full support of his family, Mo Qingze, moved and relieved, put aside the last bit of worry in his heart and promised to go to the city in two days to find Master Liu.

With their parents' restraint removed, Liu Tinglan was like a wild horse running free, pulling Mo Yan all over the mountains and fields. She had plenty of energy, but she exhausted Mo Yan half to death.

"Yan Yan, your orchard is really big. It will definitely be beautiful when it blooms in the spring. I must come over to see it."

Liu Tinglan stood at the highest point of the orchard, overlooking the entire orchard. She had never seen such a large orchard with so many rare fruit trees.

Mo Yan wiped away a sweat and smiled at the seedlings that were already covered with leaves. "These fruit trees will bloom next spring. I'll tell you then."

 Chapter 229: The Plan Falls Through, Mo Fu Goes to School (4)

"Master Mo, rest assured, now that everything is clear, no one will bring this up again."

Even the highest-ranking people present supported Mo Qingze. The villagers, who had originally not thought he was in the wrong, also echoed their praises, commending Mo Qingze's righteousness. Their words were full of disdain for the old Mo family.

At this moment, the people from the old Mo family wished they could dig a hole and hide in it, especially Old Mo, Hong Shi, and Mo Erni'er. Their faces were unbearable to look at.

Mo Erni'er clenched her fists tightly. Why did things turn out like this?

She had originally thought that there were only two reasons why the Li family refused to leave the Mo family. Either the Li family were servants of the Mo family, or the relationship between the two families was too close, and Mo Qingze was willing to let them stay.

But she had ruled out the first possibility! If the Li family were servants of the Mo family, why did Mo Qingze speak vaguely when asked?

After such a long time, she hadn't heard of the Li family selling themselves to the Mo family, so she thought it was the second possibility. So she wanted to use this matter to tell others that the Mo family would rather welcome outsiders than let their own relatives stay.

If the Mo family couldn't withstand the pressure and kicked out the Li family, others would only say that the Mo family was hypocritical. As long as she could tarnish the Mo family's reputation a bit, she would have a way to completely ruin their reputation.

If the Mo family said that the Li family were bought servants, would the Li family be happy? Then she could sow discord and make the Li family reveal the truth, and the reputation of the Mo family would still be tarnished.

If the Mo family didn't kick out the Li family, then the two closest old folks would be invited to stay. Once they moved in, their sons and daughters would naturally follow suit to be filial.

But she never expected that the reason why the Li family moved into the Mo family was like this. She had made a mistake from the beginning. What use was all her scheming now?

Mo Erni'er gritted her teeth with hatred. She had originally wanted to use this matter to make the two old folks look at her differently and give up tormenting her. But now everything was ruined! With the temperament of the old witch, she would only think of ways to torment her.

The people praised Mo Qingze's righteous actions. The members of the old Mo family couldn't bear to stay any longer. Old Mo forced a stiff smile, said something about having matters at home, and left with his family in a hurry.

Seeing the almost fleeing figures of the old Mo family, many villagers couldn't help but smirk secretly.

"You little vixen, it's all because of you, you little vixen, why don't you just die!"

Before even leaving the gate of the Mo family, Hong Shi pushed Mo Erni'er to the ground and beat her up. Niu Shi, as a mother, cowered aside, not daring to plead with her angry mother-in-law.

In the end, it was Mo Yonglu who couldn't bear it and stopped Hong Shi, but he didn't look kindly at Mo Erni'er either. He truly didn't know how to teach this daughter of his.

Mo Erni'er lay on the ground, glaring with intense hatred at her so-called relatives as they walked farther away. She slowly got up from the ground, staring fixedly at the gate of the Mo family, faintly able to hear laughter and chatter from inside!

Hmph, she wouldn't let it go like this!

---

The villagers gradually left, and Mu Hang, the shopkeeper, also left after leaving a cart full of gifts. Mo Yan took out a roe deer and half a wild sheep from the cellar as a return gift.

Similarly, shopkeeper Xing also brought a cart full of gifts, some from himself, some from Master Yan, and some from Xiao Ruiyuan.

Mo Yan didn't expect that the two of them would also give gifts. She packed two more return gifts with wild animals and asked shopkeeper Xing to take them back.

Next Chapter▶▶

 Chapter 228: The Plan Falls Through, Mo Fu Goes to School (3)

Mo Yan, carrying dishes, didn't notice anything unusual until after the banquet when Mo Qingze found her and she learned about the "good deeds" the old Mo family had done again.

Although the atmosphere was good for the latter part of the banquet despite the interruption, the banquet lasted nearly an hour before ending amidst a burst of lively firecrackers.

Except for the members of the old Mo family who couldn't eat, everyone else had their fill and thanked Mo Qingze for his hospitality.

Originally, these people were about to leave after expressing their gratitude. After all, the Mo family still had matters to attend to, and who would be so tactless as to stay here and watch the spectacle?

"Please stay, everyone!" Mo Qingze bowed to the crowd, smiling. "I'll explain the matter mentioned at the banquet here, and I hope everyone can bear witness."

Upon hearing this, it was inappropriate for everyone to leave.

Since the matter was caused by the old Mo family, the people from the old Mo family couldn't leave directly either, and their expressions weren't too good.

Mo Qingze no longer cared about the thoughts of the old Mo family members. After the leftovers on the table were cleared and the floor was cleaned, he asked everyone to sit in the hall. He left Li Zhong to entertain the guests and went to the kitchen to find Mo Yan, who was eating there.

Mo Yan was furious when she learned the whole story. It seemed that Mo Erni'er hadn't learned her lesson from last time, and Hong Shi probably forgot that she still owed their family several hundred taels of silver. It looked like she would have to go to their door with the IOU to collect the debt.

"Yan'er, the Li family of three hasn't officially become our family's servants yet. Like you, I don't want them to really become our family's servants. It's not appropriate to rashly say they are our servants. So..."

At this point, Mo Qingze paused. Seeing Mo Yan didn't object, he continued, "It's not honorable to sell oneself into servitude. In the future, they will live in Liuyang Village, and sister Li Xiu and her niece will still need to get married. It wouldn't be good for them if people found out. So when I explain later, I'll say that Dad was framed by someone, and Uncle Zhong saved Dad. Dad let them stay in our house to repay them."

Only by doing this could those who were not on good terms with their family not use this against them, and Second Uncle's family's plan would also fall through.

During the farce just now, Mo Qingze had already seen through Old Mo's intentions.

Mo Yan nodded. This explanation was indeed the most suitable for the current situation. "Let's go with what Dad said! But, Brother Lin helped our family back then. We should inform him about this."

Mo Qingze nodded and hurriedly went to find Lin Yong.

Lin Yong hadn't planned to gain any benefits from the Mo family through this matter. Knowing Mo Qingze's plan, he didn't mind and just let him do as he wished.

Mo Qingze thanked him repeatedly and then hurried to the backyard to explain to everyone that he had been framed before.

"Uncle Zhong has great kindness to me. If it weren't for him, I might have been framed to death that time, and my three children would have become helpless orphans! Just for this, it's not excessive to let Uncle Zhong's family live in our house."

Mo Qingze gratefully bowed to Li Zhong, whose eyes were already red, and then continued to explain to the suddenly enlightened crowd, "As for Second Uncle and second Aunt, they have children and grandchildren. If we let them live here, where can we put the face of our cousins? How could I do such an unjust thing?"

"Ziyu repays kindness and is righteous, with no fault." Master Liu laughed and was the first to stand up in support.

"Master Liu is right. Master Mo is indeed a righteous and kind person."

"Yeah, your Uncle and Aunt have children and grandchildren. If they really live here, their dignity will be pierced through. Besides, you've always been filial to them, and we all know that!"

Next Chapter▶▶

  Chapter 227: The Plan Falls Through, Mo Fu Goes to School (2)

Niu Shi was completely oblivious to her embarrassment, casually stuffing food into her mouth with chopsticks. Since she couldn't speak, she might as well eat!

Mo Erni'er also glared resentfully at her mother. Having such a disgraceful mother was worse than not having one at all!

But at this moment, she hated Hong Shi even more, wishing she could sew her mouth shut forever with a needle and thread. Everything she had planned so carefully was ruined by this stupid old woman.

Everyone looked at each other, unsure whether to continue eating and drinking.

Although they were curious why the Mo family had let the Li family move in, today was supposed to be a joyous occasion for the Mo family, especially during the banquet. Regardless of the reason, it would have to be addressed after the banquet.

The good atmosphere of the banquet was ruined, making the old Mo family seem unreasonable. People vented their disdain for the old Mo family and sympathized with them at the same time: having such a group of relatives was truly unlucky for eight generations.

Looking at Old Mo, who let them make a scene without stopping them, they could understand why the old Mo family had become so unruly.

Li Zhong didn't even have a chance to say a word before things escalated to this point. Feeling extremely guilty for the mess at the banquet, he was about to explain when he saw Mo Qingze shaking his head, so he closed his mouth in confusion.

Turning his gaze away from Hong Shi, who was demanding an explanation, Mo Qingze didn't even bother to respond to her thoughts.

He stood up, apologizing to Master Liu and the others, "I apologize for today's incident, causing everyone to be embarrassed."

"It's nothing, everyone has their own troubles," Master Liu replied with a faint smile, seemingly unaffected by the farce before him.

Although shopkeeper Xing and the others felt disappointed, they couldn't blame the Mo family for this. They smiled and said it was okay, but their gazes towards Old Mo were quite subtle.

Mo Qingze felt even more ashamed. He apologized to the other villagers, expressing his regret for not being a good host.

The invited villagers were already on good terms with the Mo family and didn't mind. They all smiled and expressed their understanding.

Then, Mo Qingze raised his cup full of wine and said, "Today is a joyous occasion for my Mo family. I'm glad that everyone here could attend. Regarding the question raised by my niece about why Uncle Zhong's family is living in my Mo family's house, I will explain everything after the banquet. For now, let's enjoy the food and drinks. If I've been remiss in any way, please forgive me."

With that said, he drank the wine in one gulp.

With his words, everyone naturally gave him face, raising their cups to toast Mo Qingze.

For a moment, the atmosphere became lively again, as if the previous incident had never happened.

Old Mo sat stiffly, his face like a needle felt. He regretted not stopping his granddaughter, not stopping Hong Shi, and not rectifying the situation after Hong Shi spoke.

Now, regardless of why the Li family was living in the Mo family's house, they would once again become the laughingstock of Liuyang Village. Looking at Mo Qingze's attitude of ignoring the old hag's remarks, any chance of repairing the relationship between the two families through this opportunity was now gone.

First ignored by Mo Qingze, and now being mocked by various gazes, Hong Shi's old face turned red with anger. At this moment, she also realized that no matter how righteous her reasons were, causing a scene at the banquet was her fault.

Hong Shi glared fiercely at Mo Erni'er on the opposite table. If it weren't for this little wretch, how could she have embarrassed herself like this? Since she wasn't honest, she shouldn't blame her for being ruthless.

Mo Erni'er was frightened by Hong Shi's malicious gaze, her lowered eyes filled with resentment, sending shivers down one's spine...

Next Chapter▶▶

  Chapter 226: The Plan Falls Through, Mo Fu Goes to School (1)

As soon as the words fell, the previously bustling hall gradually quieted down.

Li Zhong was caught off guard by Mo Erni'er's sudden question, and before he could figure out how to answer, Mo Erni'er, pretending to be innocent, continued, "Sorry, Grandpa Li, I've never seen you before in Mo Family Village, so I really don't know what your relationship is with Uncle Tang's family. But since Uncle Tang could allocate the new house to your family, you must be very close relatives."

At first glance, this statement seemed innocuous, but upon closer inspection, how could someone who was supposedly very close relatives not have been seen for over a decade?

Everyone unconsciously looked at Li Zhong, then glanced at Mo Qingze, whose expression didn't look too good, feeling puzzled.

When the Mo family lived in the city before, they lived together with the Li family. It was originally thought to be to share the rent, but now that the Mo family had moved into a new house, and the Li family had also moved in, this was unusual.

Sitting at a nearby table, Mo Yonglu knew that his daughter's question wasn't just out of curiosity. Considering her previous actions, his heart skipped a beat, and he quickly intervened, saying, "Erni'er, sit down and have your meal."

Mo Erni'er glanced at her father with disdain in her heart, but muttered, "It's not like it's a secret. Why can't I ask?"

"You..." Mo Yonglu choked up, but regardless of what schemes his daughter had, he had to stop her now. "You've grown up, and you won't even listen to your father, huh?"

Mo Erni'er stared resentfully at Mo Yonglu. How could she have such a useless father? If he didn't help her, that would be one thing, but he's also obstructing her! But with so many people here, if she resisted her father, it wouldn't benefit her at all. Thinking of this, her prejudice against her father deepened.

Old Mo disregarded everything happening before him, picking up food with chopsticks absentmindedly. His granddaughter, who had never been on his mind, unexpectedly had such thoughts. But so what? If it worked out... she would be a great hero for the old Mo family.

But he forgot there was still a wild card!

"Why are you stopping Erni'er?" 

Hong Shi, who had long been jealous and now thought she had caught an opportunity, stood up abruptly, slammed the chopsticks on the table, and pointed at Mo Qingze, questioning harshly, "Mother wants to ask, after raising you for so many years, not seeing you filial is one thing, but you've built a nice house and let outsiders live in it. Where do you put Mother's and your Second Uncle's face?"

As soon as these words came out, everyone in the old Mo family knew trouble was brewing.

Wu Shi, who was on the side, was anxious, pulling her mother-in-law's sleeve and pleading softly, "Mother, today is brother Tang's good day. Let's discuss it after eating. Don't let others laugh at us."

"I'm telling you, Sister-in-law, how much has Tang's family given you to speak up for them? What Mother said is not wrong. Why shouldn't she continue?" 

Niu Shi, who was eating heartily, always looked up to Hong Shi as the head of the family. Now, seeing Wu Shi trying to stop her, she immediately criticized her to please Hong Shi

"Niu Shi, shut your mouth!"

Sitting at another table, Mo Yonglu regretted not stopping his daughter in time and not stopping his mother in time. Now, hearing his mother inciting trouble, he shouted angrily, wanting to go up and slap her.

They were all so troublesome!

Niu Shi was frightened by her husband's fierce appearance and suddenly burped loudly, which was heard throughout the room.

Others frowned, casting disdainful glances at Niu Shi, and even the delicious dishes still steaming on the table didn't seem as appetizing anymore.

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  Chapter 225: Discussing Marriage Matters in the Boudoir, Banquet with Hidden Calculations (9)

The people of the Mo family just noticed that there was still a girl standing nearby. Seeing her dressed in luxurious silk garments and exuding an aura of elegance, they knew she wasn't from an ordinary peasant family.

However, as they thought about this extraordinary girl being friends with Mo Yan and harboring resentment towards Hong Shi and the others from the Mo family, their expressions turned even uglier.

Among the crowd, Mo Yongxi's eyes almost glued to Liu Tinglan's figure, filled with jealous madness. With Mo Yan already causing trouble, why could this troublemaker still make such wealthy and powerful friends?

Troublemakers, all of them!

Standing beside Mo Yongxi, Mo Erni'er's expression was inexplicable. She looked at Li Zhong standing beside Mo Yan, sneering coldly with a hint of scheming in her eyes.

After Mo Yan led the Mo family into the hall, learning that the dishes in the kitchen were ready to be served at any time, she went to the study and called Mo Qingze, who had lost track of time chatting with Master Liu, to come out and help Li Zhong arrange the banquet.

Seating arrangements at the banquet were also significant. The head table was reserved for the closest elders or the most prestigious guests among the visitors.

Master Liu was a Jinshi scholar, and no one present had a higher status than him, so he was seated at the head table.

Old Mo was the closest elder to the Mo family, so despite the poor relationship between the two families, since they had come, they couldn't be seated elsewhere, so he was also seated at the head table.

Yang Bao was the village chief and deserved a seat at the head table. shopkeeper Xing, and shopkeeper Mu, the furniture shopkeeper, were also considered important guests of the Mo family, so it was appropriate for them to sit there.

Each table was set for eight people, and with the addition of Mo Qingze, there were only six people at the head table. The remaining two seats were filled by Lin Yong and another elderly villager.

Originally, the Liu family and Hong Shi's group were supposed to sit together, but Hong Shi was too unsettling. Therefore, Mo Yan arranged for them to sit with Cai Shi and her group instead.

Cai Shi was straightforward. Although she was a bit taken aback by the grandeur of the Liu family, she didn't care much about others and naturally greeted the Liu family, sharing some countryside anecdotes to liven up the atmosphere.

Madam Liu wasn't the type to hold a grudge, so she didn't feel any resentment towards Cai Shi's straightforwardness. As a result, the atmosphere at the table was quite pleasant.

Before the delicious dishes were formally served, everyone chatted happily, and only Hong Shi's table seemed exceptionally quiet.

Apart from Hong Shi and the four women, the other four women were also villagers.

Since entering the Mo family's door, Hong Shi had been smiling awkwardly. The others knew that she wasn't easy to get along with, so they didn't talk to her much. Feeling ignored while others were chatting animatedly, she felt increasingly left out, her face becoming longer and longer.

Seeing her mother-in-law's increasingly unpleasant expression, Wu Shi was very worried. She was afraid that her mother-in-law would cause trouble at the banquet, which would be difficult to handle.

When the delicious dishes, rich in color, fragrance, and taste, were served one after another, everyone stopped chatting and looked at the dishes on the table.

Seeing a table full of sumptuous dishes, the villagers, who rarely had the chance to eat meat, were extremely happy and praised the Mo family for their generosity, saying they were fortunate today.

The children who couldn't sit at the table eagerly watched the adults, urging them to serve them dishes. Some ignorant children couldn't resist reaching out to grab food, but when the adults caught them, they scolded them and disciplined them with a slap on the hand.

Mo Qingze warmly served dishes to Master Liu, but Master Liu, being the elder, insisted on letting Old Mo serve first. Old Mo smiled modestly and picked up his chopsticks only after a few polite exchanges.

Seeing the head table in action, the others picked up their chopsticks and started eating heartily.

Each dish on the table was ample, and the villagers, no longer snatching food as they used to at banquets, were afraid of showing disrespect to the distinguished guests. Therefore, they restrained their children, forbidding them from crying or causing trouble, otherwise, they would be punished with a "stir-fried pork with bamboo shoots."

With so much delicious food and no need to compete with others, the children had no time to cry or make trouble, and each of them behaved well.

Mo Yan didn't sit at the table; instead, she, Li Zhong, Li Xiu, and several other women were responsible for serving dishes to each table.

When Li Zhong brought a dish of stir-fried pork to the seat where Mo Erni'er and the other girls were sitting, Mo Erni'er suddenly stood up and asked Li Zhong, who was about to leave, with an innocent face, "Grandpa Li, what's your relationship with my uncle's family? Why have you been living with my uncle's family all this time?"

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 Chapter 224: Discussing Marriage Matters in the Boudoir, Banquet with Hidden Calculations (8)

Just then, Zhen'er led two children into the room, and Mo Yan looked up to see Yun Zhao and Yun Sheng, the two siblings. It turned out that shopkeeper Xing, had arrived and brought the siblings along.

"Come over and sit next to big sister," Mo Yan smiled and greeted them to sit down, then brought pastries and pear juice from the tea room.

With strangers present, Yun Zhao and Yun Sheng felt a bit awkward. It wasn't until Liu Tinglan took the initiative to play with them that the atmosphere warmed up.

Seeing that it was almost noon and the banquet was about to begin, Mo Yan asked Zhen'er to go ahead and ask her father if all the guests had arrived.

Zhen'er returned shortly after running out, revealing that only the Mo family hadn't arrived yet.

"Why haven't they arrived yet? Did father go to call them?" Mo Yan frowned. If they didn't want to come, they wouldn't, but if they came halfway through the banquet, it would be embarrassing for their own family.

Zhen'er looked unhappy. "Father is busy welcoming guests and arranging the banquet. He doesn't have time right now. He said if they haven't arrived before the banquet starts, he'll go call them."

Mo Yan nodded without saying anything. Old Mo was the elder, so even if they went to invite them, it would have to be Mo Qingze, his nephew, who went personally. If they sent a few juniors to invite them, knowing Hong Shi's temper, they might just make a scene.

Seeing that there was nothing for her to do, Zhen'er invited Yun Zhao to play with her.

Yun Zhao didn't really want to go. Playing with those little kids was boring to him, but he came today not just to congratulate them, so he took his sister and followed Zhen'er.

After the children left, the room quieted down again. Having been in the room for a while, Liu Tinglan felt bored, so she said she wanted to go out for a walk. Mo Yan planned to take her to the orchard.

But before they could step out of the courtyard, the entire Mo family rushed in noisily, with Li Zhong holding firecrackers behind them, looking somewhat embarrassed, not knowing if he should light them.

Mo Yan understood what was going on at a glance and said to Li Zhong, "Grandpa Li, light the firecrackers and then come in. We still need your help with the banquet!"

Li Zhong smiled awkwardly at Mo Yan and quickly went to the door with the firecrackers.

Except for Hong Shi, Niu Shi, and a few others who couldn't make sense of the situation, everyone in the Mo family, including Old Mo, wore embarrassed expressions as they stood at the door. The sound of firecrackers outside was loud, making their embarrassment even more apparent.

For events like this, the number of gifts didn't matter, but it was customary to set off a string of firecrackers at the host's door to symbolize a festive atmosphere. The host would then come out with another string to welcome the guests, as a sign of gratitude and welcome.

But now, the Mo family came empty-handed, not even willing to set off a string of firecrackers at the door. If this were to spread...

Wu Shi and the others felt embarrassed and dared not lift their heads. They had intended to buy a string of firecrackers from the villagers who were going into town yesterday, but Hong Shi held onto the money tightly and didn't want to spend a penny. The others were too embarrassed to borrow money to buy them.

Today, they arrived so late because Hong Shi had caused trouble at home and insisted on being begged three times before she agreed to let them come. After waiting for half a day.

On such a joyous occasion, Mo Yan didn't want to argue with them about this, but with Hongshi causing trouble, she couldn't relax. If they caused a scene in front of everyone, it wouldn't just be her losing face.

Thinking of this, Mo Yan apologized to Liu Tinglan, "Sister Lan, the banquet is about to start. I'll take you to the orchard later!"

"It's okay, you go ahead. The sun won't be as intense later anyway!" Liu Tinglan smiled and waved her hand, indicating that she understood.

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  Chapter 223: Discussing Marriage Matters in the Boudoir, Banquet with Hidden Calculations (7)

Mo Yan also took a sip of pear juice, and her mouth was instantly filled with the sweet taste of pear and the fragrant aroma of honey.

Liu Tinglan was still not satisfied and poured herself another cup with the white porcelain teapot. "It's so delicious! Yan Yan, you really know how to enjoy life."

Mo Yan smiled and pushed the plate of pastries toward her. "These are the pastries I made myself. Have a taste."

The pastries were simple fruit cakes made with flour, eggs, peaches, lychee juice, and honey. Since there was no milk, it lacked a milky fragrance, but it was not overly sweet or greasy, full of fruity aroma, and everyone in the family loved it.

The peaches were crushed, so the original appearance couldn't be seen, and Mo Yan only said they were made with wild fruits from the mountains.

"Wow, Yan Yan, these pastries are so delicious! How can there be such a virtuous girl in this world, who can manage both the hall and the kitchen, and make such delicious pastries? Whoever marries you in the future will be so fortunate," Liu Tinglan exclaimed with relish, even saying such immodest words that would have been deemed improper in ancient times.

Mo Yan was speechless at this comment. "If Aunt Liu hears this, you won't be allowed out again."

Unexpectedly, at the mention of this, Liu Tinglan sighed deeply, and a few traces of worry appeared on her face. "Don't mention it. If it weren't for celebrating the housewarming of your family today, my mother wouldn't have let me out!"

Mo Yan was taken aback. "What's wrong? Didn't you used to come out often?"

Liu Tinglan shook her head, looking quite depressed. "My mother recently had people show me to potential suitors and doesn't allow me to go out again to avoid gossip. Last time when you came to my house, my mother was there, so I couldn't tell you."

"You're only fifteen. Why is Auntie so anxious?" Mo Yan was puzzled. Liu Tinglan was an only child, and theoretically, the Liu family wouldn't want her to go out so early.

Liu Tinglan pursed her lips. "My mother wants to find me a suitor, so she wants to find one sooner. She doesn't consider that our family isn't wealthy enough to attract many suitors. Even if there are, they are likely to be useless men who just want to freeload. I don't want such a useless husband."

"This..." Mo Yan furrowed her brow, unsure how to console her friend. Madam Liu genuinely cared for her daughter, otherwise she wouldn't be looking for a suitor for her, fearing her daughter might suffer if she married into another family. But as Liu Tinglan said, there might not be many capable men willing to marry into the Liu family, so she might end up with a useless husband.

If Liu Tinglan followed her parents' arrangements and married a suitor, but looked down on her husband with contempt, over time, the couple would definitely face numerous conflicts. They might not even be able to show each other mutual respect, let alone happiness!

Although there were exceptions to everything, the exceptions in this case were too rare.

Seeing her friend looking so troubled, Liu Tinglan felt a warmth in her heart and teased, "Stop worrying about me and think more about yourself. By next year, when you're also fifteen, Uncle Mo will worry about your lifelong affairs."

Mo Yan's heart trembled! Yes, she was fourteen this year, and even if her father kept her until eighteen, she only had less than four years left.

In her previous life, because of her strange constitution, she was afraid she wouldn't live past twenty-five and might die at any time, so she didn't dare to like anyone or accept anyone's pursuit. Now that she didn't have this worry, she suddenly realized that she didn't have any expectations for marriage in this ancient era where polygamy was legalized.

The two sisters each had their own thoughts and sighed together in silence.

"Big sister, big sister, Zhen'er brought two people here."

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  Chapter 222: Discussing Marriage Matters in the Boudoir, Banquet with Hidden Calculations (6)

Out of respect for Master Liu, Mo Qingze maintained a humble attitude but didn't appear servile. Learning that Master Liu had specially taken time off to attend, he felt deeply moved.

"Ziyu, no need to be polite. I'm a few years older than you, so how about we drop the formality and I call you 'Brother Jianan'?" Master Liu smiled slightly, displaying the demeanor of a cultured scholar.

"That's right, Uncle Mo. When I hear you call my dad 'Master Liu,' it makes me feel like you're calling him an old man," Liu Tinglan said cheerfully, linking her arm with her mother's.

"Child, don't interrupt when adults are talking. It's rude!" Madam Liu tapped her daughter on the head reproachfully.

Liu Tinglan stuck out her tongue mischievously, making several adults chuckle involuntarily.

"In that case, Ziyu, let's drop the formality. I'll call you 'Brother Jianan,'" Mo Qingze readily agreed.

"Indeed, it should be so. Haha," Master Liu laughed heartily, stroking his beard in agreement.

It was Madam Liu's first time attending a house warming banquet in the countryside. Seeing the curious villagers around, she felt a little uncomfortable and quickly said to Mo Qingze, "Let's not talk here. It's not convenient with people coming and going. Let's go inside first!"

"My apologies for neglecting this. Brother Jianan, Sister-in-law, and Miss, please!" Mo Qingze gestured and promptly led the way inside.

The Liu family's coachman and carriage were led into the carriage shed by Li Zhong through a small side door. Li Zhong then brought fodder for the horses and arranged for the coachman to stay in a side room near the entrance.

Seeing that the hall was too crowded and noisy, Madam Liu obviously disliked it. So Mo Qingze led the Liu family of three to a nearby large study.

While Mo Qingze went to prepare tea, the Liu family of three began to look around the study.

Although the study was not in use at the moment, everything was already arranged properly. There were many books on the large bookshelves, some for Zhen'er's enlightenment and others collected by Mo Qingze. Although the number of books was fewer than in the Liu family's study, the arrangement was not inferior.

Seeing the books that had been thumbed through and worn out on the shelves, Master Liu nodded inwardly, realizing that Ziyu was diligent and hadn't neglected his studies.

Liu Tinglan was restless; she had come here to find her friend to play with. Staying with her parents would inevitably be boring, so she expressed her desire to go find Mo Yan.

Master Liu naturally didn't stop her but Madam Liu reminded her a few times to follow Mo Yan and not run around randomly.

With a cheerful smile, Liu Tinglan called out "Uncle Mo" when she saw Mo Qingze bringing tea and asked where Mo Yan was before hurrying off.

Mo Yan was helping out in the kitchen when she saw Liu Tinglan coming and was very happy. After finding her siblings to greet the Liu family, she took Liu Tinglan to her own small courtyard.

Mo Yan's small courtyard was a bit far from the hall, and the noise from the front couldn't be heard. The flowerbed in the courtyard hadn't been planted yet and looked a bit bare, but upon opening the door and entering, Liu Tinglan's eyes lit up at the structure and arrangement of the rooms.

The bedroom, study, and small living room were all fully furnished, with a canopy bed, dressing table, and couch that were very pleasing to the eye. The decoration was simple, elegant, and not clichéd, much more comfortable and beautiful than her own room.

After touring the rooms, Liu Tinglan sat down in the small living room. Mo Yan went to the tea room and soon returned with pastries and pear juice.

"Mmm, it's delicious. How did you make this pear juice?" Liu Tinglan took a small sip first, finding it exceptionally sweet and delicious, and then quickly finished the entire cup of pear juice.

"Just cut the pears into small pieces, then use a juicer to extract the juice, filter out the dregs, and add honey. That's it," Mo Yan explained.

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