Chapter 746 - Chapter 746: Confidence
Chapter 746: Confidence
Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
Shao Liulangs condition had finally improved.
Upon the Elder Uncle’s return, he shared the news with Shao Yunduan, urging his son to pay a visit to the third branch of the family whenever he had the opportunity. The intention was to bring Shao Liulang back home for a pleasant conversation.
“…Liulang is feeling down, and as his cousin, it’s important not to exacerbate the situation. Your role should be one of support and consolation. Yunduan, I’m delighted that you’ve achieved success, but it would bring immense honor to our family if both of you could pursue education and excel in the examinations!”
Shao Yunduan nonchalantly nodded, not even inclined to argue with his father.
Why should he be the one to reach out and engage Shao Liulang in conversation?
Being older and having achieved the title of Provincial Champion, there was a substantial disparity between them, both in terms of family hierarchy and official status.
Shao Liulang had never bothered to offer his congratulations after Yunduan’s triumph as Provincial Champion. Neither had he shown any warmth or kindness. And now, his father expected Yunduan to go out of his way to bring Shao Liulang for a discussion?
Furthermore, his father expected him to provide consolation and encouragement to Shao Liulang?
His father seemed remarkably assured of its effectiveness.
But would mere words of comfort and encouragement truly make a difference?
Shao Yunduan hadn’t really contemplated this matter since then.
After savoring roasted mutton and wild goat, and relishing the rare delicacy of dragon fruit from the south, they ventured into the mountains for several days.
Rather than hunting animals, which would yield more food than they could consume, they focused on gathering an abundant harvest to take back home.
With mushrooms, yams, and lilies carefully stored, the family became occupied with the task of sun-drying their precious findings.
A wide variety of fresh mushrooms were utilized to create delectable dishes such as stewed chicken with mountain mushrooms, fried meat, stir-fries, soups, and hot-pots. Each preparation was bursting with flavor.
They managed to gather the final batch of honey from the flower fields. which would last for two more months and serve as a key ingredient in making lip balm.
While Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan were engrossed in their harvesting tasks, County Magistrate Qiao meticulously arranged everything to initiate an attack against the Zhao Family.
County Magistrate Qiao had made thorough preparations, and when the victims filed their reports, the officers swiftly took control of the Zhao Family members.
Madame Zhao remained oblivious to the situation, but upon learning of it, she instructed Zhao Guangyin to offer County Magistrate Qiao a bribe in order to resolve the matter and suppress the reports.
“It was absurd that old cases were being dredged up and reported, it seemed like a joke!”
However, Zhao Guangyin found himself trapped within the confines of the Zhao Family estate. Guards stationed outside the gate prevented anyone, including the mistresses, masters, and servants, from leaving unless they were purchasing food. They awaited Officer Qiao’s summons.
Zhao Guangyin’s attempts to bribe the guards with 50 liang proved futile, leaving him bitter and frustrated.
Madame Zhao grew furious and contemplated forcing her way out. Yet, the guards, aware of her social standing, responded by brandishing their blades.
The sight of the gleaming blades shattered Madame Zhao’s resolve, causing her to crumble in defeat. She no longer dared to make any further attempts. “What on earth is happening? There must be someone orchestrating all of this!” Madame Zhao exclaimed, consumed by anger.
Zhao Guangyin wore a bitter smile and let out a sigh. “Mom, don’t you see? It’s the Shao Family behind all of this!”
Madame Zhao was taken aback. “How could that be? The Shao Family may have a Provincial Champion, but he shouldn’t have the power to do this!”
“But Officer Qiao happens to be the father-in-law of the Provincial
Champion!” Zhao Guangyin nearly shouted, shocking Madame Zhao.
Zhao Guangyin let out a weary sneer. “Now do you understand, Mom? The
Shao Family is far from ordinary!’
Visiting the Shao Family was out of the question; they would likely respond with physical violence. Zhao Guangyin’s presence would only exacerbate the situation further. It seemed that their only hope for survival lay with the women from their own family, who might have a chance at eliciting sympathy through desperate pleas..