**Chapter 137: The Cost**

"Where is she?"

Watching Chen Xue carry the baby away, the crowd was curious but unable to see what she was doing inside the carriage.

"Could she really have a way to save the child?" someone whispered.

"Impossible!" Zhang Yiquan countered. "She’s probably stalling for time or planning to switch the child with another one."

"Nonsense!" someone immediately defended Chen Xue. "Where would she find another baby to switch in this snowy land?"

"Exactly."

"I think you’re just jealous and trying to discredit her."

"That’s right, I know him. His name is Zhang Yiquan, and he has a grudge against the Chen family. That’s why he’s slandering them."

"You’re talking nonsense," Zhang Yiquan retorted angrily. "If the Chen family can bring someone back from the dead, then I’ll..."

"Then you’ll what?"

"Not brave enough to say, huh?"

Zhang Yiquan indeed didn’t dare to bet. Deep down, he was a bit worried but didn’t want to lose face. "Just wait and see!"

As the crowd argued, they suddenly heard a cry—an infant’s cry. They looked toward the sound and saw Chen Xue carrying a baby who was wriggling and crying.

"My baby!" The woman, stunned at first, then filled with joy, rushed forward and stopped in front of Chen Xue.

Chen Xue handed the baby to her. The woman opened the child’s clothes, saw the familiar face, and burst into tears of joy.

"Thank goodness, thank goodness!"

Seeing the woman’s reaction, the crowd realized that Chen Xue had indeed brought the child back to life. 

The Chen family could actually revive the dead.

"Gasp!"

The crowd collectively inhaled sharply.

"Impossible! How can this be?" Zhang Yiquan staggered back, unable to believe it. The Chen family were ordinary people, not supposed to be capable of such miracles.

Why?

It didn’t make sense!

Zhang Yiquan felt his worldview crumbling.

Others who had sided with Zhang Yiquan now had sour faces and some even turned to flee, fearing retribution.

"Thud!"

Suddenly, Chen Xue collapsed to the ground.

"Miss!" Xiao Die, who appeared at her side, caught her just in time, her face filled with concern. "Are you alright?"

Chen Xue weakly waved her hand. "I’m fine, just exhausted."

While facing away from the crowd, she winked at Xiao Die, who understood immediately and turned to shout to Master Chen.

"Master, something’s wrong! Miss used up her lifespan to perform the celestial art and has fainted."

"What?"

"How could this happen!"

Master Chen’s expression changed dramatically. He rushed over to his unconscious daughter, his face full of anxiety.

"Xiao Xue, don’t scare me!"

Xiao Die continued to cry out, "Master, we need to take Miss back to rest. She said this secret art can only be used once in a lifetime, the cost is too great."

Master Chen panicked. Had he known the cost of this secret art, he would have stopped her. No matter how others might resent them, or how his reputation might suffer, he was a father first and couldn’t bear to see his daughter hurt.

Thoughts racing, he hurriedly carried Chen Xue back to the carriage.

"What’s happening?" Madam Chen was startled, seeing her husband bringing in the unconscious Chen Xue.

"I…"

Master Chen felt guilty, but before he could explain, Chen Xue "woke up," sat beside her mother, and started eating some pastries.

"Xiao Xue, you…" Master Chen was stunned.

"Miss is fine," Xiao Die said. "I’m sorry, Master, I made it up."

"I asked Xiao Die to say that," Chen Xue explained, pulling Xiao Die to sit down. "I was worried that if people knew I could revive the dead, they’d come to us endlessly for help."

"So I thought we should pretend that using this secret art comes at a great cost. That way, they might not come to us."

"And if they do, we can claim it requires a significant sacrifice to deter them."

"But," Chen Xue continued, feeding Xiao Die a pastry, "credit goes to Xiao Die. She came up with those words herself, not me."

She had briefly instructed Xiao Die on what to say before coming out of the space, but Xiao Die’s performance exceeded her expectations.

In the future, if anyone asked her to revive someone, she could use the excuse of needing to sacrifice her lifespan.

"You scared me to death!" Master Chen wiped the sweat from his forehead. "I nearly had a heart attack."

"Next time, give me a hint first, or I might really go mad."

Master Chen felt relieved yet jittery, knowing he could not bear to lose his only daughter.

…

The crowd, seeing Chen Xue faint and hearing Xiao Die’s shouts, realized that using this celestial art came at a great cost. They had thought it was easy.

Now they knew Chen Xue had to sacrifice her lifespan, and the art could only be used once in a lifetime, making it clear they wouldn’t have another chance. Even if they did, the Chen family wouldn’t use it again for anyone.

Seeing Master Chen’s frantic actions convinced them it wasn’t a performance, making them accept the high cost of this miracle.

"Serves her right!" Zhang Yiquan muttered in the distance, pleased to see Chen Xue faint. He secretly cursed her. While it was unexpected that the Chen family could revive the dead, he was glad it came at a high cost.

Zhang Yiquan’s mind raced, wondering if he should incite others to pressure the Chen family for more miracles, ensuring they faced consequences.

PS: Sisters, it's the end of the month. Please support with votes and rewards!

Next Chapter▶▶

Chapter 1083: The Invisible Foodie

Shu Yu shook her head, "I won't."

She didn't get motion sickness, not even on boats. In the past, she could even work on her computer while traveling in a high-speed vehicle, with high efficiency. This was a habit developed over many years, so sitting on a boat or a carriage was no different to her as long as it was stable.

It just got a little boring after a while. At first, she could enjoy the scenery along the way, but over time, she couldn't help but lose interest.

With nothing to do, Shu Yu asked Ying Xi to bring a book from the cabin for her to read.

She moved a small stool and sat comfortably under the eaves, enjoying the gentle breeze and feeling quite content.

Ying Xi quickly brought out two books, but they were actually novellas.

In such a leisurely time, she enjoyed reading novellas the most.

Ying Xi sat beside her, eating some snacks. It was only after traveling together for so many days that Shu Yu realized that this girl was actually an invisible foodie.

According to her, when she was living with her mother in the Ying family, she was often bullied by the other children. The most common method was denying her food. Ying Xi also practiced martial arts from a young age, which consumed a lot of energy. Not only did she have to endure hunger, but she couldn't even get any snacks. Moreover, because she was living under someone else's roof, she couldn't complain and could only bear it silently.

This led to her developing a desire to eat more whenever she had the chance.

After being sold off, the wages from her host family were not high, and sometimes they even withheld her earnings. Ying Xi's food intake was quite limited.

Until she followed Shu Yu, who was very satisfied with her. This little girl didn't talk much, but she executed orders decisively. Whatever Shu Yu said, Ying Xi would immediately do. She handled everything Shu Yu entrusted to her beautifully, so Shu Yu was generous and occasionally rewarded her with some copper coins and silver.

With the money, Ying Xi's situation improved, and she no longer needed to restrain herself from eating. Not to mention that Shu Yu was used to bringing back some snacks and fruits for herself whenever she returned from outings. Naturally, she would share some with Ying Xi.

As a result, Ying Xi felt that following her miss was the best thing that had ever happened to her and decided not to marry anyone in the future.

Shu Yu didn't notice it at first, but now that they spent time together day and night, she discovered that every time they prepared some road rations in a town, Ying Xi would buy some local snacks to eat on the way. That's when she realized.

It was a good thing that Ying Xi had a high energy expenditure every day; otherwise, she might have become overweight.

Now, seeing her enjoying a package of hawthorn candy, Shu Yu couldn't help but remind her, "Don't eat too much hawthorn candy, or your stomach might get uncomfortable, and you'll suffer from vomiting and diarrhea."

Hearing this, Ying Xi immediately closed the paper bag. "Then I won't eat it."

Shu Yu smiled and took out two pieces of candy from her purse. "If you still feel like having something in your mouth, just suck on these candies slowly. We're on a ship now, and it'll take at least three days to reach the next dock. You won't be able to move around and practice martial arts like on land, so it's not good to eat too much."

"Understood." Ying Xi nodded repeatedly, "Then I'll put the hawthorn candy away, and I'll go get a book to read."

"Go ahead." Shu Yu waved her hand, allowing her to go back to the cabin.

Ying Xi was quick, and in a short while, she returned to the deck.

However, as soon as she climbed the stairs, she saw a young master standing in front of Shu Yu.

This young master was holding a fan, looking quite dashing as he fanned himself.

Next Chapter▶▶

 Chapter 146: Card Friends

Next Chapter ▶▶

 Chapter 584 You Will Be in Danger

Unfortunately, Song Lu was too young, and perhaps he started with a sense of luck, which led to the current situation.

"Do you know where you went wrong this time?" Ye Muyu couldn't help but have the intention to guide. Although Song Lu was not very mature, his character was still acceptable. As for Chu Qingxiang, she was persistent by nature. Ye Muyu couldn't completely deny or judge other aspects of her.

Song Lu looked embarrassed. "I was too indecisive and things were not as beautiful as I imagined. Problems should be resolved promptly once they arise."

"As long as you understand, nobody is perfect. Although this time it was because of you and Qingxiang that we were affected, the blame doesn't fall entirely on you. Besides, since nothing bad happened, let's forget about it." Ye Muyu said frankly. "But I hope you won't involve me in the future. Since Qingxiang insists on choosing you, you should treat her well, especially regarding your family matters."

Ye Muyu stopped there. After all, every family has its own way of doing things and Chu Qingxiang must have thought about these issues herself, so there was no need for Ye Muyu to interfere.

"I understand." Song Lu nodded sincerely. Despite the embarrassment on his fair face, his eyes were exceptionally sincere, and he exuded an aura of integrity.

Ye Muyu sensed a momentary change in his demeanor, but upon closer inspection, she couldn't discern anything further, so she didn't dwell on it.

"Scholar Song, have some tea." Hu Shi came in with a teapot at this moment and poured him some warm tea with warmth.

Song Lu quickly thanked her and accepted the tea cup with both hands, taking a big sip before setting it down.

"You should also know about the conflict with the Wang family yesterday, right?"

"I'm aware." Song Lu nodded.

Ye Muyu continued, "In that case, you should also be aware that since Miss Wang broke her arm yesterday, she definitely won't let it go easily. So, even if you ruin your own reputation, it won't resolve this matter. After yesterday's incident, anyone who has a grudge against the Wang family will be considered an enemy by my Chu family."

"Therefore, there's no need for you to do those things, because it's useless. Instead, it only benefits the Wang family and letting the enemy benefit is not my style." Ye Muyu said calmly.

Song Lu was momentarily stunned, suddenly realizing something, and asked, "Is Brother Chu planning to resolve the matter with the Wang family?"

"Why do you ask?"

"I heard that Brother Chu is very good to Madam. Otherwise, he wouldn't have been so harsh on Miss Wang from the Wang family yesterday. If so, Brother Chu won't just let it go."

Song Lu suddenly stood up and clasped his hands, saying, "Madam, is there anything I can do? I'm willing to do anything."

"After all, this matter started because of me, so let me end it." Song Lu smiled bitterly.

"Actually, I'm telling you this without asking you to get involved." Ye Muyu explained.

Song Lu firmly said, "This is your generosity, Madam, but I can't pretend to know nothing. If I do, wouldn't I be a selfish person?"

"Madam, just give me your orders."

Ye Muyu looked at him steadily, trying to determine if he was lying. In fact she was already relieved that Chu Heng was dealing with the Wang family alone. Before Chu Heng left, he left Steward Luo behind, telling her that she could ask him for help if needed. If Song Lu also got involved and confused the Wang family, things would only go more smoothly.

"You will be in danger." Ye Muyu said bluntly.

Next Chapter ▶▶

 Chapter 583 Consequences

"Madam, Scholar Song is here." Hu Shi quickly turned around and quietly informed Ye Muyu who was still struggling with the last piece of rib at the table.

Ye Muyu paused for a moment, understanding what was happening. She quickly finished chewing the rib and handed the bone plate to Hu Shi.

Hu Shi also quickly cleared the table and tidied up the dishes.

In no time at all, Song Lu was led into the main hall by Zhang Shu.

Seeing Ye Muyu sitting at the head of the table, Song Lu felt a sense of guilt in his heart. He stepped forward and bowed, "Madam Chu, I am here today to apologize. If it weren't for me, I wouldn't have caused you so much trouble."

Since returning home last night, he had heard about what happened in the village. He was filled with anger. He was angry at himself for being powerless, for being constrained by a woman, for being unable to choose his own freedom. He was angry at his own incompetence, for allowing his family to be swayed by the seemingly generous gifts from the Wang family.

He was even more angry at himself for involving others. He studied hard to make something of himself.

Now, the scholarly achievement he had finally attained had ruined his previously peaceful life, leaving him trapped in a difficult situation. All of this was caused by his own incompetence!

"This is a Buddhist scripture that I begged from the presiding officer of Deming Temple. I personally transcribed it. Madam, please don't dislike it." Ye Muyu looked at Song Lu, who appeared humble, guilty, and complex in mood. She scrutinized him a bit, unsure if his visit was a pretense or sincere.

"The Buddhist scripture that you transcribed yourself is indeed very rare. I will accept it. Thank you for your kindness." Ye Muyu accepted.

Song Lu breathed a sigh of relief and respectfully placed the Buddhist scripture in front of her.

The fact that Ye Muyu accepted the Buddhist scripture meant that she wasn't too angry. This made him feel a little better.

"As for the matter with the Wang family..."

Song Lu hurriedly said, "Madam Chu, rest assured I will resolve this matter."

"Oh? How will you resolve it?" Ye Muyu asked, surprised. She didn't know that Song Lu had a plan to resolve the matter, especially since it had been dragging on for so long.

Song Lu felt a little embarrassed. "I have written poems and essays, expressing that I am not worthy of Miss Wang's talent. With Miss Wang's talent she deserves a better scholar. Moreover, I have also promised Mr. Wang that I will not participate in this year's provincial examination."

"Are you ruining your reputation?" Ye Muyu looked at him in shock. It was well known that scholars valued their reputations very highly. Scholars with serious reputational flaws could even be disqualified from examinations, or if they did pass they could be manipulated by officials in the government and not achieve any official positions.

Song Lu nodded firmly. "Yes, this matter is my fault from the start and it has affected so many people. A little reputation is nothing compared to everyone's safety."

"In the past, I was not thorough in my considerations and hesitated, which led to the current situation."

"You have thought about the consequences of doing this?"

"It may ruin my future, but it's only a possibility. If I can resolve this matter, then everything will be worth it." Song Lu said firmly.

Seeing his determination, Ye Muyu regarded him highly. However, it was clear that if Song Lu had initially decided not to deal with the Wang family, if he had refused decisively, or even deliberately acted in a bad manner, revealing bad habits, etc., it could have made the Wang family give up on him.

After all, there were many scholars, and the Wang family didn't have to choose Song Lu.

For anyone with some worries, going against the Wang family's wishes and making them feel displeased could have solved the problem indirectly.

Next Chapter ▶▶

Chapter 1082: Boarding the Ship

Shu Yu gazed into the distance, thinking about the words the waiter had told her.

The house had remained unrepaired and unsold for so long, and it might not necessarily be because the Meng family was not there.

Perhaps there were people watching not only in Tianning County but also around Meng Yunzheng's uncle's place.

"Miss, do you think Yan Bo will be in danger?"

Shu Yu shook her head. "Not at the moment."

Ying Xi felt relieved after hearing Shu Yu's confident response.

The carriage continued its journey and arrived at Huajiang Prefecture while it was still early, just before noon.

Shu Yu asked Ying Xi, "Do you want to visit your mother?"

After Ying Xi's mother remarried, she married into the Ying family in the prefecture. After her passing, she was probably buried with Ying Xi's step father.

However, Ying Xi shook her head with a bitter expression. "I don't know where my mother's grave is, or even if they... have been properly buried. When the Ying family fell into trouble, everyone was thrown into prison. My parents died there, and if no one took care of things outside, their bodies might not have been claimed."

After they were released from prison, Ying Xi and her brother were sold off. They were sent to Dong'an Prefecture and never had a chance to return or find a way to inquire about their parents.

Later, she was resold and ended up as Shu Yu's personal maid in Jiangyuan County, which gave her an opportunity to return and see her family.

Other members of the Ying family were also sold off, so Ying Xi had no idea where her parents' bodies were or whether they had been properly buried.

Shu Yu reached out and patted her shoulder. "Don't worry. When we return from the capital, we won't be in a hurry. You can inquire more carefully then."

Ying Xi's eyes brightened. "Will we pass by Huajiang Prefecture when we return?"

"We will." When they return, it will be when the matter with Gong Qiu is resolved.

If Meng Yuzheng learns that Yan Bo is still in Tianning County, he will definitely come back to see him. At that time, they won't need to worry about anyone watching Yan Bo anymore.

In that case, Ying Xi will have enough time to inquire about her mother and stepfather.

"Thank you, Miss."

Compared to her father, who passed away when she was five, Ying Xi spent more time with her mother and had a deeper relationship with her. Naturally, she wanted to visit her.

As they chatted, the carriage slowly arrived at the dock.

The ship Shu Yu had arranged was still loading cargo, and it seemed like it would take a while.

Shu Yu greeted the ship's owner and strolled along the dock. They waited until the loading was almost complete before boarding the merchant ship with the other passengers.

The carriage was also loaded onto the ship. Shu Yu and Ying Xi had booked their rooms just yesterday, and it was already late, so they ended up with less desirable accommodations.

The rooms on the upper two floors were all taken, leaving Shu Yu with a room in the lower deck.

The cabins below had no windows, making them stuffy and damp, with a strong smell.

After a brief moment inside, Shu Yu came back out. Standing on the deck, she gazed enviously at the rooms above.

It seemed that she could only wait and see if anyone would disembark at the next stop so she could ask if she could change rooms.

For now, other than the necessary sleeping time at night, Shu Yu didn't want to go back inside.

The merchant ship began to set sail, and Shu Yu grabbed a small stool to sit on the deck, watching the rippling river and enjoying the scenery along the way.

Ying Xi handed her a water pouch. "Miss, do you feel uncomfortable?"

She knew that some people might feel seasick on a boat.

Next Chapter▶▶

Chapter 310: Wu Shi Jumps into the River, Xiao Ruiyuan Comes Searching (5)

Onlookers were shocked, and a few quick-thinking women hurried to catch up. But Wu Shi was determined to die, and she ran so fast that they couldn't catch up.

Niu Shi panicked, instinctively turned her head, and shouted at the dazed Hong Shi, "You old fool, you pushed your daughter-in-law to her death. How will you explain to your eldest son and those nephews and nieces of yours?"

After shouting, without waiting for Hong Shi's reaction, she chased after Wu Shi even faster.

Hong Shi was startled by the scolding, realizing that her eldest daughter-in-law was really driven to jump into the river by herself, which frightened her to break out in a cold sweat. It wasn't that she was genuinely worried about Wu Shi, but rather worried about not being able to explain to her son, and making him resent her. She was counting on her eldest son to support her in her old age!

Wu Shi ran quickly towards the edge of the small river, as if she hadn't heard the shouts behind her, and soon she saw the riverbank.

"Sister-in-law, don't be impulsive, think about your four children, what will happen to them if something happens to you!"

Seeing that she really wanted to jump into the river, those chasing behind her were scared and quickly tried to persuade her loudly. The water in the small river wasn't deep, but it was enough to drown a person. Jumping in during this cold winter month, even if she was rescued in time, she might get sick, and she might actually die.

Wu Shi paused for a moment, then continued rushing towards the riverbank.

Several women who were closest to her were extremely anxious, but they couldn't catch up in time. They quickly asked the men who were coming behind them to run faster. At this time, they couldn't care less about gender differences, saving a person was the most important thing.

Seeing that Wu Shi was less than ten yards away from the riverbank, a woman had a sudden inspiration and shouted loudly, "Sister Wu, don't jump. If you do, won't your cousin, who kindly gave you the cotton jacket, feel guilty? Your father-in-law and mother-in-law might come to trouble her. Can you bear to see her, a young girl, being blamed?"

The crowd didn't hold much hope for these words, but unexpectedly Wu Shi's steps actually slowed down, showing signs of hesitation.

Seeing this, the woman felt relieved and continued, "Your mother-in-law is not easy to get along with. If she reports Mo's daughter to the authorities, that girl's life will be ruined!"

The woman knew that even if Hong Shi reported to the authorities, this matter wouldn't blame Mo's daughter, but using it to scare Wu Shi, to make her give up the idea of jumping, was still effective.

Yes, if she died, wouldn't it harm Yan'er? Yan'er had done so much for her family, how could she harm her! The thought of harming Yan'er became clearer and clearer in Wu Shi's mind, and her steps slowed down more and more, until she walked towards the riverbank in a daze.

Several women seized the opportunity and finally caught up, forcefully pulling her back when she was less than a yard away from the riverbank.

"Sister Wu, being alive is better than being dead. How can you seek death? To speak bluntly, your mother-in-law is a stubborn old woman, can she outlive you? Your children are also quite sensible, there are better days ahead!"

"That's right! Even if you don't think for yourself, you should think for your children. Orphans are so pitiful!"

"Exactly, don't think about this and that. Everyone knows you're a good person, you don't gossip about others. Don't be upset with a crazy woman like her, it's not worth it!"

Several women held Wu Shi tightly, comforting her with their words, afraid that she would still run to jump into the river.

At this time, Niu Shi also arrived, panting, pointing at the silent Wu Shi and scolding, "I can't stand your cowardly behavior! If you have the ability, why do you want to seek death? You should be like me, go against that old fool, hold onto the money you earn yourself, and see if she dares to mess with you!"

Next Chapter▶▶

 Chapter 89: Just Be Carefree Once

"Do you know there's another meaning to 'driving'?"

Sheng Mingsi turned to the side, bent down to take off his shoes, and casually asked.

Suppressing all emotions.

"Um? What is it?" Jiang Chenchen asked while standing nearby.

Sheng Mingsi closed his eyes briefly, and indeed... he found himself unable to articulate it.

He changed into slippers. "Just ignore that guy Ye Xi from now on."

"Oh."

Jiang Chenchen looked at the sparklers he held, bundled together. All her attention was on his hands.

"Brother Ah si, let's go light the fireworks now!"

Seeing the anticipation in her eyes, Sheng Mingsi slightly raised the corners of his mouth and handed the things over. "You hold them."

Jiang Chenchen reached out to take them.

"Where should we go to light them, at the entrance?"

She seemed a bit impatient.

Sheng Mingsi noticed the exquisitely packaged gifts on the coffee table when he came in.

He subconsciously touched his pocket.

Tightened his grip with his hand.

"The rooftop terrace."

Jiang Chenchen had never been to the rooftop terrace of this building. It was enclosed with glass on all sides. In the winter, it remained closed, while in the summer, it could be completely opened.

It was also filled with flowers and plants, resembling an airborne garden.

It would be incredibly beautiful to come here to see the snow falling on a snowy day.

"Brother Ah si, let's light them together." She handed him some.

"Do you have a lighter?"

Sheng Mingsi took out a lighter from his pocket. "Be careful."

When the small fireworks were ignited, sparks scattered, and Jiang Chenchen stared at the flames for a moment. Although her heart should have been filled with anticipation, an unexpected sadness suddenly overwhelmed her, inexplicably sad.

The parents who were engulfed by the big fire appeared in her mind.

Her eyes glowed with red light, filled with hatred! But those people were already dead, all dead!

When the firework extinguished, her eyes lost the flame. In the sudden darkness, she seemed to remember something.

The last words her mother said to her.

"Survive, go back to where you should be!"

She always remembered the first part but had forgotten the second until this moment, under the small burst of fireworks.

Go back to where she should be?

Where is that?

She didn't know.

"What's wrong?" Sheng Mingsi sensed that her mood was off. "Are you uncomfortable somewhere?"

Jiang Chenchen came back to her senses, shaking her head. "No."

She put aside the words that suddenly came to her mind and looked at him. "Brother Ah si, can you light another one for me?"

Sheng Mingsi's eyes glanced over her and, bowing his head to light the firework for her, softly said, "Anytime you feel scared, just call my name. I'll be by your side."

The flame in her hand reignited.

Blossoming in the dark night, as it should be beautiful.

Watching it, Jiang Chenchen suddenly felt her nose tingling. Being so happy that you want to cry, it turns out it feels like this.

Her parents were no longer in this world, but she had found a new family.

A cold but large hand grasped her wrist, swirling the firework in her hand. "Like this, you'll experience more happiness."

Tonight, Sheng Mingsi was exceptionally gentle. Suppressing the chilling aura, he just wished for her happiness.

In the new year, she could forget the past hardships and start her own life anew.

He lit one for himself too, and the dazzling flame illuminated both their brows and eyes vividly. Facing her, he said, "Happy New Year."

In Jiang Chenchen's eyes, tears glistened.

Jiang Chenchen's eyes shimmered with teary light.

The firelight extinguished.

In the sudden darkness, Jiang Chenchen rushed into his arms.

She hugged his waist tightly, her face against his chest.

Silent tears soaked his clothes.

The unique scent, softness, and vulnerability of the girl overwhelmed him, briefly making him abandon his reason. He extended his hand, holding her tightly, embracing her in his arms. Let his heart, beating so fast, be unrestrained for a moment.

Not far away, a massive firework erupted in the sky, the sound deafening.

Jiang Chenchen lifted her head from Sheng Mingsi's embrace to look over. The dazzling, star-like fireworks illuminated the night sky, showering down, creating an instant of tranquility.

Fireworks continued to bloom in the sky, one after another.

She lowered her head to look at the sparkler in her hand.

Sheng Mingsi: "..."

The contrast was so obvious.

He cleared his throat, released her without showing any emotion, and said coldly, "Fireworks are prohibited in the city. It seems someone can't resist breaking the rules."

"Brother Ah siq, a New Year's gift." Jiang Chenchen brought the prepared gift box over and handed it to him. "Hope you like it."

Sheng Mingsi looked down at the gift box. Although he was prepared, scenes like this still stirred his heart.

It was the first New Year's gift he had received in so many years.

His friends were all men, and there was no custom of exchanging gifts between men. Moreover, he lacked nothing, and he wasn't interested in these things.

However, knowing that what was inside this box was something she had spent many nights knitting by hand, such precious things naturally made people like them.

He reached out and took it, feeling the weight in his hand. It was something she had carefully crafted.

Looking up, Jiang Chenchen said, "Open it and have a look."

Under her watchful eyes, he opened the gift box and took out the red sweater.

The touch was warm.

"Like it?"

"Yeah."

With the response, Jiang Chenchen swept away the gloom. "Brother Ah si, this is something I personally knitted. I'm glad you like it. You should wear it tomorrow morning."

Sheng Mingsi nodded. "Yes, I will."

He put the sweater back into the gift box, and with one hand in his pocket, he hesitated whether to give the other gift.

He was not someone who hesitated, but it felt a bit awkward to give a gift to a girl for the first time.

"Brother Ah si, what's wrong with you?" Seeing that he hid in the darkness without saying anything, Jiang Chenchen approached and asked.

Sheng Mingsi saw the person coming closer, gathered his courage, and took out the item from his pocket, then took her hand and placed it in her palm. "This, I'm giving it to you too."

Jiang Chenchen looked at the delicate little box in her hand, not knowing what was inside, so she looked up at him.

Sheng Mingsi's eyes twitched slightly. He restrained the black glow in his eyes and said calmly, "Open it and have a look."

So, under his gaze, she opened the small gift box, revealing a golden rabbit. The large firework that had burned for a long time finally went out.

The sight went dark again.

"I'll go down and take a look."

Jiang Chenchen had just felt a sudden brightening in front of her, so she couldn't wait to go to a brighter place to see it clearly.

It was a golden rabbit necklace, delicate and exquisitely crafted. The eyes of the rabbit were also red, made of red gemstones.

Jiang Chenchen liked it very much and looked up at Sheng Mingsi. "Is this really for me?"

Next Chapter▶▶

  **Chapter 136: Bringing Back the Dead**

“What’s going on?” Chen Xue and the others heard the commotion outside and curiously lifted the curtain.

The servants quickly explained, “A woman’s baby froze to death, and she’s coming here to beg for help from you and Master Chen.”

“Why come to us?” Chen Xue frowned. “Where’s Doctor Yang? Let him take a look.”

“Doctor Yang already examined the baby. He couldn’t do anything and confirmed that the child is no longer breathing.”

“But the woman claims that you are a celestial being and insists you can use your celestial powers to save her child.”

“Moreover, not just the woman, there are many others shouting for you to use your celestial powers. I suspect someone is stirring up trouble among them…” the servant whispered.

“Miss, we can handle this,” the servant continued in a low voice, recognizing Chen Xue’s remarkable abilities but doubting she could bring someone back from the dead. If she couldn’t, the disappointed crowd might become uncontrollable. It was best to let the servants handle it and take the blame if necessary.

“Xiao Xue, you stay here. I’ll go take a look,” Master Chen decided, stepping down from the carriage. He knew that mishandling this situation could worsen the prisoners’ opinion of them, negatively impacting their future plans. Besides, he couldn't ignore a matter of life and death.

“I’ll come too!” Chen Xue also jumped down from the carriage, following her father.

“What’s going on?” Master Chen asked.

“Master Chen is here, and the Celestial Maiden has arrived!” The prisoners exclaimed upon seeing them. The woman with the baby, tears streaming down her face, looked at them with eyes full of hope.

The sight moved both Chen Xue and her father.

The woman rushed forward, kneeling before them, her knees sinking into the snow as cold water seeped into her legs. She shivered but didn’t care.

“Master Chen, Celestial Maiden, please save my child!”

“I beg you, I’ll do anything, even become a slave, if you save my child.”

“Ah!” Doctor Yang sighed. “You’re making it difficult for my lord. I’ve already examined the child; even the best doctor couldn’t help. There’s no bringing back the dead. You’re making things hard for my lord and for yourself.”

Doctor Yang explained to Chen Xue and her father that the woman had kept her child bundled in thick clothes to prevent freezing. However, fearing the child would overheat due to recent sunny days, she had removed one layer. Unfortunately, that’s when the child likely caught a chill and stopped breathing.

“This…” The woman, upon hearing this, broke into even more heart-wrenching sobs.

“My poor child, my poor baby…”

“Please stand up. There’s nothing we can do if the doctor is helpless…” Chen Xue began but was interrupted.

“Isn’t she a celestial being? Can’t she bring the dead back to life?” an all-too-familiar voice shouted from the crowd. Chen Xue looked up but couldn’t spot the speaker.

“Exactly!” Another voice chimed in. “If a celestial can’t do this, what kind of celestial are they? They must be frauds.”

Zhang Yiquan had rallied some people to incite the crowd, clearly a group that didn’t believe in Chen Xue’s celestial powers.

Chen Xue felt helpless. She wasn’t truly a celestial being and couldn’t bring someone back from the dead. Despite her desire to help, she was powerless. As she tried to refuse, the crowd’s clamor grew louder.

“Shut up!” Zhao Guang shouted, glaring at the crowd. “Anyone who keeps babbling, I’ll cut their tongue out!”

Seeing his fierce demeanor, the crowd fell silent, though their faces still showed indignation.

“Please, I only have this one child. If he’s gone, how can I live…” The woman’s desperate plea and gaze made Chen Xue’s heart tremble. She sighed and delved into her space.

“System, do you have any medicine that can bring someone back to life?”

“Revival Pill, 5 million contribution points, can resurrect the dead,” the system responded.

“Gasp!” Chen Xue was shocked that such a pill existed, but the cost was astronomical. She only had over 100,000 contribution points, far from enough.

“Ginseng Elixir, 1 million contribution points, can save someone on the brink of death.”

The system listed various life-saving pills, but all were beyond Chen Xue’s means. After thinking, her eyes brightened. “System, give me an emergency manual for treating frostbite or hypothermia.”

Chen Xue took out a stethoscope and approached the woman, placing the earpiece on the baby’s chest. Despite being faint, she could hear the heartbeat, indicating the child wasn’t entirely dead. The warmth from being wrapped in clothes had helped the child’s heart to start beating again.

“Give me the child!” Chen Xue said, not waiting for the woman’s consent. She grabbed the baby and ran towards her carriage.

“My baby, my baby!” The woman tried to follow but was stopped by Zhao Guang. “If the Celestial Maiden has taken your child, it means she has a way. If you don’t want anything to happen to your child, stay put.”

The woman, convinced by Zhao Guang’s words, stood still, praying fervently.

“Impossible!” Zhang Yiquan watched from a distance, eyes wide with disbelief. There was no way the Chen family had a solution. They must be stalling for time!

He suspected the Chen family might switch the child, but he didn’t believe they could bring someone back to life.

Inside the carriage, Chen Xue wasted no time explaining to her mother and entered her space. It was much warmer inside, and perhaps due to some mystical energy, plants grew faster, and everyone’s health improved.

Chen Xue began using the emergency methods she had exchanged to save the child.

Next Chapter▶▶

Chapter 309: Wu Shi Jumps into the River, Xiao Ruiyuan Comes Searching (4)

Wu Shi covered her neckline in panic and shook her head desperately, "Mother, this cotton-padded jacket was kindly given to me by Yan Yam, how could I afford to buy fine cotton and cotton on my own! Mother, I really didn't hide any private clothes!"

Hong Shi became even angrier when she heard this. "Humph, you shameless woman, how dare you still want something from that little slut! Take it off and throw it away quickly, or I'll do it myself!"

With that, she began to tear at Wu Shi's clothes, trying to rip the cotton-padded jacket off.

Niu Shi returned after finishing her business and saw the scene. Her eyes widened, and she clapped her hands loudly, shouting, "Look, everyone, come and see! In broad daylight, the mother-in-law is stripping her daughter-in-law's clothes! Eldest sister-in-law, if your clothes are stripped off, how can you ever lift your head again!"

Others didn't know, but she knew what kind of person her mother-in-law was. Saying that she wanted to throw it away, wasn't she just trying to strip it off and give it to that clueless sister-in-law? Even if she envied her eldest sister-in-law's new cotton-padded jacket, she wouldn't let her mother-in-law have it. Hmph!

Niu Shi's shouting attracted the neighbors, who gathered at the door and stretched their necks to look into the old Mo family's house. Hearing Wu Shi's explanation, they all sneered, cursing Hong Shi in their hearts!

"Mother, please stop it, let go!"

Wu Shi cried desperately. If her mother-in-law really tore off her clothes, she would really have no face to see anyone in the future, and even her children would be looked down upon. Since she married into the old Mo family, her mother-in-law has always oppressed her. It's fine to be beaten and scolded for being tired during normal times, but now she wants to humiliate her like this. She's also a person who cares about her reputation!

"You eat my food and drink my drink, even the clothes you wear are given by me. If I want to take them back, do you dare to resist?"

Hong Shi was determined to strip off the brand-new cotton-padded jacket. She didn't care about Wu Shi's begging. While cursing, she used force to tear open the clothes.

"Mother, how...how can you do this, how can you!"

Wu Shi never expected her mother-in-law to be so shameless. Thinking about enduring her mother-in-law's humiliation in the future, she decided to break the jar and sit on the cold ground with her neck stiff. "Mother, go ahead, if you take off my clothes today, I won't have the face to live anymore. It's better to jump into the river and die! After I die, you can find another stepmother to take care of your grandchildren, which would fulfill the relationship between us, mother-in-law and daughter-in-law!"

Hong Shi was stunned, obviously not believing that the usually timid eldest daughter-in-law would really dare to resist. But seeing the cold look on Wu Shi's face, she knew that these words were not just empty talk.

Thinking that this useless thing also dared to defy her, Hong Shi was furious and cursed loudly, "You wicked Wu Shi, once you find a backer, you become arrogant, right? Don't forget, you're a daughter-in-law of our old Mo family. I'll kill you, you unfilial thing. That little slut can't seek justice for you either!"

Although she said so, Hong Shi was still afraid in her heart and dared not to strip off the clothes again, afraid that Wu Shi would really jump into the river. By then, where would she get the money to find another daughter-in-law for her eldest son!

Wu Shi got up from the ground expressionlessly and looked at her mother-in-law indifferently, saying, "Then let the stepmother do as you wish, no need for you to do it yourself. I'll go jump into the river."

With that, she pushed Hong Shi aside, rushed out of the door in disarray, and in that appearance, it seemed like she really wanted to jump into the river.

Hong Shi was startled, watching Wu Shi run out of the gate, feeling somewhat at a loss.

Niu Shi was also shocked by her own sister-in-law. Although the relationship between sisters-in-law was not good, she didn't want anyone to die. So she turned around to chase after Wu Shi while shouting loudly to the people who were still in a daze, "Stop my sister-in-law quickly, she's really going to jump into the river!"

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