Chapter 131-135

Chapter 131: Garlic Pork

Sichuan cuisine is known for its rich diversity, and it can be categorized into three major schools based on geography and cooking techniques: the Rong School (Upper River Gang), the Yu School (Lower River Gang), and the Yan School (Small River Gang). Each school has its own distinct characteristics, yet they complement and influence one another, shaping the vibrant culinary culture of Sichuan.

With business thriving, Xia Mingyue’s Xia Ji Cold Pot Skewers have quickly gained popularity. These skewers, a well-loved specialty of the Shanghebang style of Sichuan cuisine, offer bold flavors and a lingering spiciness that keeps customers coming back for more.

Tonight, Xia Mingyue planned to prepare a special meal, featuring four classic Sichuan dishes alongside juicy dumplings, creating the perfect spread for a cozy evening gathering.

The first dish on the menu was Garlic Pork, a staple in Sichuan cuisine known for its tender texture and aromatic sauce.

She selected high-quality pork belly, perfectly marbled with alternating layers of fat and lean meat. The pork was gently simmered with ginger slices and a generous splash of rice wine, allowing the flavors to infuse deeply. Once it reached a perfect 90% doneness, she removed it from the pot and let it cool completely, ensuring a firm yet tender bite.

Knife skills were crucial for this dish. Each slice had to be as thin as possible, almost translucent, allowing the flavors to absorb fully. With a steady hand and a well-sharpened blade, Xia Mingyue deftly sliced the cooled pork belly, creating pieces as thin as delicate paper.

She then arranged the slices in a circular pattern on a porcelain plate, layering them elegantly like the petals of a blooming flower. The final touch was the soul of the dish——the rich sauce. A blend of mashed garlic, fragrant chili oil, soy sauce, vinegar, and a touch of sugar created a perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and savory flavors. She generously drizzled the sauce over the pork, letting it seep into the layers, ensuring every bite was bursting with flavor.

Next was Fish-Flavored Eggplant, a dish that, despite its name, contained no fish. The unique 'fish fragrance' flavor profile came from a combination of aged vinegar, soy sauce, sugar, and aromatics like garlic, ginger, and scallions.

The eggplants in Jinqiu County were of a special variety——oval-shaped, green-skinned, with thin skin and thick, fragrant flesh. When cooked properly, they absorbed sauces beautifully and developed a rich, meaty texture.

Xia Mingyue cut the eggplants into long, even strips, ensuring they would cook evenly. She fried them in hot oil until they turned golden and tender, then set them aside. In a separate pan, she sautéed fragrant bean paste, onions, and garlic until the aroma filled the air, before adding the signature fish-flavored sauce. When the sauce thickened slightly, she tossed the fried eggplant back into the pan, coating each piece in the glossy, deep-red sauce.

The dish was finished with a final stir, ensuring the eggplants were soft, juicy, and infused with layers of flavor——sweet, sour, spicy, and umami all at once.

The third dish was Stir-Fried Shredded Carrots with Chili Peppers, a simple yet flavorful side dish.

She used fresh, crisp carrots, shredding them finely to create a delicate texture. To enhance their natural sweetness, she added a generous amount of peanut oil to the wok, allowing the shredded carrots to absorb the rich aroma. The addition of sliced chili peppers added a slight heat that perfectly balanced the carrot’s natural sweetness, creating a dish that was both spicy and refreshing.

The final dish was Fried Bean Curd with Green Onions, a comforting dish with a mild, nutty flavor.

The soft, delicate bean curd sheets were lightly pan-fried to create a golden crust while keeping the inside tender and moist. The dish was simply seasoned with salt, a dash of soy sauce, and fresh green onions, allowing the natural flavors to shine through. Each bite was silky, aromatic, and satisfying.

As the dishes were placed on the table, the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden hue over the yard. Under the soft glow of dusk, the five of them gathered around, ready to enjoy their meal.

The garlic pork was succulent and refreshing, with the fat melting in the mouth, balanced by the bold garlic-chili sauce.

The fish-flavored eggplant was silky and rich, with its sweet and tangy sauce clinging to every bite, making it almost indistinguishable from meat.

The stir-fried carrots had a slight crunch, with the combination of chili and peanut oil adding depth to its natural sweetness.

The bean curd sheets were soft and fragrant, absorbing the flavors of the onions and seasonings beautifully.

Paired with a bowl of steaming dumpling soup, the meal was satisfying, comforting, and brimming with flavor.

Even though everyone was full, they still made space for dessert——snowy red bean paste mooncakes, which had been stored in the well to keep them cool. The soft, slightly chewy texture of the mooncake skin paired with the smooth, sweet red bean filling made for a perfect ending to the feast.

As the evening deepened, the bright Mid-Autumn moon hung high in the sky, casting silver light over the courtyard. The world seemed to glow under its gentle radiance.

After clearing the dishes, Xia Mingyue called for Jiang Zhuguo to bring out the snacks she had prepared——roasted melon seeds, toasted peanuts, and fresh apples and pears.

The melon seeds were lightly salted, with a subtle sweetness lingering after each bite. The apples and pears, freshly picked from local farmers, were crisp, juicy, and naturally sweet.

The apples and pears were Xia Mingyue, Jiang Zhuguo, and Sister Lu sat around the table, chatting leisurely, while Zhao Dahu and Zhao Erhu played hide-and-seek in the yard. Their laughter and playful shouts filled the night air, adding warmth to the festival atmosphere.

*****

Meanwhile, in the military camp, the soldiers were celebrating in their own way.

Tonight marked not only the Mid-Autumn Festival but also the first grand celebration after their victory in Changzhou City. The commander had ordered a proper feast, and the firemen worked tirelessly, boiling pots of fresh pork and warming up jugs of wine.

The atmosphere was loud and boisterous, with soldiers feasting, drinking, and sharing stories. Some reminisced about the battle, while others shared humorous tales of their hometowns. Laughter and conversation echoed through the camp, filling the air with camaraderie.

Among them, Lu Qiyan, now a captain, sat with his fellow officers, quietly drinking his wine.

"Captain Lu, why so quiet? Could it be that you're missing home?" asked Captain Shang, clinking his wine bowl against Lu Qiyan’s.

Lu Qiyan paused, then drank his wine in one go before replying, "What about you?"

Captain Shang laughed. "Of course! My parents are gone, but my wife and children are waiting for me. Wherever they are, that’s home."

Someone chuckled. "I heard Captain Lu is married. Surely, he must miss his wife?"

Lu Qiyan fell silent, looking toward the bright moon above.

Did he miss her?

He wasn’t sure.

But just like the moonlight illuminating the night, some things remained constant, whether he acknowledged them or not.

His emotions tangled into something he couldn’t quite name, so instead of responding, he averted his gaze, letting it drift across the lively camp.

Not far away, a large crowd had formed, their excited shouts and laughter filling the night air. A circle of soldiers had gathered, their voices rising in excitement as they cheered someone on.

Lu Qiyan’s brows furrowed slightly. “What’s happening over there?”

Captain Chen, who had been standing beside him, craned his neck to get a better look. “It seems that the young general is challenging someone to a duel. Quite a crowd has gathered to watch.”

Young General?

Lu Qiyan thought for a moment before asking, “Do you mean An Yunji? Young General Ji?”

Captain Chen nodded. “That’s right. Even though General Ji is still young and not particularly tall, his speed is something else. His martial arts may not be the most refined, but when he fights, his strikes are fast, precise, and ruthless. Many underestimate him, but even seasoned warriors struggle to counter his attacks.”

Lu Qiyan listened in silence as Captain Chen continued, “I also heard that during the battle for Changzhou City, it was General Ji who personally took the enemy general’s head. The commander of the wing, An Leiting, was so pleased that he publicly praised him for his courage and intelligence. At the celebration banquet, General Ji was given a place of honor next to the commander himself, receiving toasts from the entire unit.”

Captain Shang, who had been quietly listening, suddenly chuckled. “That’s funny.”

Captain Chen turned toward him. “What do you mean?”

Captain Shang smirked. “Because I heard a very different version of that story.”

Captain Chen frowned. “What do you mean?”

Captain Shang leaned in slightly, lowering his voice just enough to add a sense of intrigue. “I heard that it wasn’t General Ji who killed the enemy general. The real killer was just a regular soldier. But since An Leiting wanted to boost General Ji’s prestige in the army, he shifted the credit onto him.”

Lu Qiyan didn’t react immediately. He simply gazed in the direction of the crowd, his expression unreadable.

*****

The classification of Sichuan cuisine remains a subject of debate among scholars and culinary experts. Here, the author has chosen one widely accepted theory, though it may not be the most definitive. The author asks for understanding if there are differing perspectives.

Garlic pork has many regional variations in Sichuan cuisine. The method described in this narrative is just one of them. Since I personally prefer the strong, aromatic garlic flavor,  I have chosen this particular version to highlight.

Tea Warm

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Chapter 132: Rumor Spreading

"You believe everything others say?" Captain Chen scoffed, curling his lips in disdain. "Show off his power? What power? General Ji was originally just a beggar. If not for a stroke of luck, he wouldn’t be standing where he is today."

He paused for effect before continuing, his voice tinged with amusement. "Commander Xiang found him by chance, took pity on him, and gave him food. He was nothing more than an ordinary soldier at first. But later, when the Commander saw that he was fearless and incredibly skilled in combat, he decided to take him in——not just as a soldier, but as an adopted son. That’s how he got the chance to step onto the battlefield and earn his name in blood."

Captain Shang, who had been listening with a skeptical expression, crossed his arms. "The Commander-in-chief has several adopted sons. Yet, I haven’t seen him paving the way for any of them. General Ji doesn’t have any family background to rely on, no powerful relatives pulling strings for him. What would be the point of 'showing off his power' when there’s no benefit to gain from it? Do you think An Leiting has nothing better to do than play favorites?"

Captain Shang gaze darkened. "I think someone saw General Ji rise from being a mere beggar to standing by the Chief’s side. They probably feared that if the Chief continued to nurture his potential, he might one day be entrusted with greater power. So they started spreading rumors, twisting the truth to smear his reputation."

"I don’t believe everything I hear," Captain Shang admitted, scratching the back of his head. His frustration was evident. "But the whispers are spreading through the entire army.... If what you say is true, then this is deeply unfair to General Ji."

Yet, at the end of the day——this was the military.

Wasn’t strength the only thing that mattered here?

The strong climbed to the top, while the weak were left behind. That was the only truth on the battlefield.

Jealousy-driven rumors? Smearing someone's name behind their back? That was nothing but the behavior of petty gossiping women in the marketplace.

How ridiculous that such nonsense had seeped into the military camp!

Lu Qiyan, who had been silent up until now, suddenly smirked. "I see a crowd gathering over there. Why don’t we go take a look?" His voice carried a hint of amusement. "Instead of relying on rumors, why not witness General Ji's strength with our own eyes?"

"Agreed!"

The group, already tired of idle drinking and speculation, felt that Lu Qiyan’s suggestion made sense. They set down their cups, straightened their robes, and moved toward the commotion.

As they pushed through the sea of bodies, Lu Qiyan and his companions finally caught sight of the so-called General Ji.

At first glance, he didn’t look like much.

A boy of fifteen or sixteen, slightly thin, with long, slender limbs——almost too delicate for a warrior. His posture was loose, legs slightly apart, knees half-bent, giving him the appearance of a monkey ready to pounce.

But his eyes——his eyes were something else entirely.

An Yunji's gaze was sharp and unwavering, fixed on the opponent before him. There was something chilling in them——an icy confidence, laced with faint disdain. The corner of his mouth curved ever so slightly, as if he didn’t take his opponent seriously at all.

The other soldier, clearly provoked, let out an enraged shout and lunged forward, his spear thrusting toward An Yunji’s chest.

Yet, before the tip could even graze him——

Whoosh.

An Yunji moved with the fluid grace of a shadow, leaning just enough to let the spear whistle past him. In the same breath, he twisted his body, and a flash of steel cut through the air.

Slice.

A thin line appeared across the opponent’s sleeve. Then, a moment later——a shallow wound formed beneath it, beading with fresh blood.

A hush fell over the crowd.

Captain Chen exhaled, shaking his head. "The boy is agile, I’ll give him that. But his strength is lacking. That attack barely drew blood. If this were a real battlefield, and you had to slash a dozen times just to leave superficial wounds, you’d be wasting energy for nothing."

"What do you know?" Captain Shang scoffed, his expression serious. "Didn’t you see that General Ji was holding back? In military sparring, the rule is to stop before inflicting serious injury. If he actually maimed or killed someone here, they’d accuse him of being reckless, of disrespecting human life. If that happened, wouldn't the rumors about him only get worse?"

Captain Chen hesitated, then nodded. "That... makes sense."

But before he could say more——

The battle shifted again.

The moment of distraction proved costly for the opponent. He was still stunned by the injury, his spear momentarily lowered.

In that split second, An Yunji vanished from sight——or at least, that’s how it seemed.

A ghostly blur reappeared behind the soldier.

The dagger in An Yunji’s hand flickered as it grazed his opponent’s back, tearing yet another hole in his clothing. The movement was so fast, so precise, that the audience barely had time to process what had happened.

Then——

The dagger shifted again.

In one seamless motion, it was suddenly pressed against the man’s throat.

The crowd gasped.

It happened too fast.

First——they weren’t blind. Second——they didn’t blink.

So how the hell did they miss that?!

The soldier stiffened, a chill creeping up his spine. Slowly, his grip on his spear loosened——until it fell with a loud clang against the ground.

"I...," he swallowed hard. "I admit defeat."

Cheers erupted.

"General Ji is incredible!"

"As expected of General Ji!"

"Anyone else still doubts him? Come forward!"

Amid the deafening praise, An Yunji simply sheathed his dagger.

His cold gaze swept across the crowd, his lips curling with a hint of mocking contempt.

Lu Qiyan raised an eyebrow, intrigued.

This An Yunji..., he was not just talented. He was calculating.

Fierce, merciless, but also frighteningly intelligent.

Someone like him wasn’t just useful on the battlefield——he was someone who could command entire armies in the future.

Perhaps that was why An Leiting had placed him so prominently during the celebration banquet.

Yet....

Lu Qiyan frowned slightly.

For some reason, An Yunji’s face seemed strangely familiar to him.

He lowered his gaze, brushing the thought aside. Perhaps he had simply drunk too much tonight.

With a sigh, he excused himself from the crowd, heading toward a quieter part of the camp.

The cool night breeze brushed against Lu Qiyan’s face, helping clear his mind.

But from a distance, two figures were approaching.

As they drew closer, he recognized them——Commander An Jingzhong and Deputy Commander Zhang Mingxin.

Lu Qiyan immediately bowed in greeting. "Commander An. Deputy Commander Zhang."

Zhang Mingxin barely acknowledged him, waving a dismissive hand as he continued walking.

An Jingzhong, however, paused to glance at him for a long moment before moving on.

When they had walked a little further, An Jingzhong turned his gaze toward the distant crowd surrounding An Yunji.

His lips curled into a small, unreadable smile.

"This An Yunji..., he’s becoming quite the popular figure in the army."

Zhang Mingxin snorted. "Popular or not, he’s just a small general. He has no real power, no authority over military strategy——just a tool to inspire morale."

An Jingzhong’s expression darkened.

"That’s true for now," he muttered. "But what about in the future?

I'm afraid that in just a few years, everyone in the army will recognize An Yunji's name, while mine——An Jingzhong——will be nothing more than a forgotten whisper," he said, his voice calm but laced with a subtle edge of discontent.

Zhang Mingxin, ever the sycophant, let out a short, dismissive chuckle. Leaning in slightly, he spoke with a smile that barely concealed the flattery behind his words.

"Commander, you jest," he said, shaking his head. "Your name has long been etched into the annals of history. You have fought under the Emperor’s banner for countless years, navigating both battlefields and courtly intrigue with unrivaled cunning. Few can match your shrewdness, and fewer still dare to challenge it.

The boy may carry the surname An, but in the grand scheme of things, what does that truly mean? He is merely an adopted son, an outsider given shelter under the An family’s roof. But blood cannot be replaced, nor can years of loyalty and sacrifice. No matter how much recognition he garners, no matter how many victories he wins, he will never hold a place above you."

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Chapter 133: Punishment

"Besides," Zhang Mingxin continued, lowering his voice, "even if An Yunji has outstanding military achievements, the power to reward him and decide his future lies solely in the hands of the Chief. There is absolutely no reason to favor an adopted son while suppressing the biological heir."

An Jingzhong's lips curled into a smirk, his fingers tapping rhythmically against the table.

"And if you look at the situation carefully," Zhang Mingxin added, "the Commander-in-chief has his own reasons for pushing An Yunji to the front lines. First, it ensures the Chief's own safety. Second, it maximizes the use of available talent. The praise and recognition at the celebration banquet were nothing more than a calculated move——an attempt to show everyone that the Commander-in-chief values merit above personal ties."

"But the irony is," Zhang Mingxin continued, his voice carrying a hint of amusement, "the more the Chief emphasizes An Yunji now, the more severe the consequences will be if he ever makes a misstep. The higher he is raised, the harder he will fall. Should he make even the slightest mistake, resentment will brew among the ranks, and he will be cast aside like a broken chess piece."

A silence fell between them as the weight of their words settled in the air.

"After all," An Jingzhong finally said, a sinister glint in his eyes, "the Chief is laying the groundwork for me——his true successor."

"Precisely." Zhang Mingxin smiled obsequiously, his back slightly bent in deference.

A general must train capable subordinates, not only to solidify his own power but also to secure the family's influence within the court.

As for what comes next....

An Jingzhong's eyes narrowed.

"Adopted son, chess piece, abandoned pawn——the difference is but a single word. And in the end, everything hinges on the Chief's will."

"Commander is wise," Zhang Mingxin flattered, his smile deepening.

Their hushed conversation blended seamlessly into the lively banquet hall, where laughter and toasts drowned out the whispers of conspiracy.

Yet, amid the clamor, a lone figure stood apart.

Lu Qiyan, standing nearby, caught fragments of their conversation. His senses were keen, his hearing sharper than most. Though the words were faint, they were clear enough to piece together the meaning behind them.

Adopted son. Chess piece. Abandoned pawn.

Six words, simple yet chilling, summing up a man’s entire existence.

A cold smile tugged at Lu Qiyan’s lips. His fingers clenched slightly before releasing, as though grasping an invisible thread of fate.

If this world had already determined his worth and discarded him as an expendable piece on the board, then he would simply overturn the entire game.

*****

Meanwhile, at Dexinyuan, the manor was bathed in the warm glow of lanterns, casting flickering shadows against the intricately carved wooden walls. The scent of incense and freshly brewed tea mingled in the air as servants moved in and out, their footsteps light and purposeful.

The Mid-Autumn Festival dinner had been delayed far later than usual. The Old Madam had struggled with insomnia the night before, leading her to sleep through most of the afternoon. Even after waking, she had felt sluggish, her energy waning. A slow stroll through the courtyard had done little to rejuvenate her, but by nightfall, she finally felt ready for supper.

The table was set meticulously, adorned with an abundance of dishes befitting the festival.

Four meat dishes, four vegetable dishes. Four hot dishes, four cold ones. Two soups. Two desserts.

A banquet fit for nobility, even if she was dining alone.

At the center of it all, the highlight of the evening: Snow Skin Mooncakes.

Just as *Madam Luo and Madam Wang had planned, the mung bean and red bean paste mooncakes had been sliced into delicate pieces, garnished with preserved fruits, osmanthus blossoms, and fresh fruit slices. The artistic presentation made them look almost too exquisite to eat.

Even the Old Madam, who often had little appetite, found herself intrigued. Her eyes lit up as she reached for a Snow Skin Mooncake with her chopsticks, forgoing the usual etiquette of waiting for a servant to serve her.

The first bite melted in her mouth——soft, fragrant, just the right balance of sweetness.

"It’s good," she remarked, nodding approvingly. "Quite a rare treat, too. Where did you buy these from?"

The maid, Miss Biyun, stepped forward with a slight bow.

"Replying to the Old Madam, when we were setting the table, this maid was also curious and asked the kitchen. This maid was told that these Snow Skin Mooncakes were not purchased from outside but made by *Madam Luo and Madam Wang themselves."

The Old Madam’s eyebrows lifted slightly. "They made them?"

"Yes, Old Madam."

"Hm," she mused, tapping her fingers against the lacquered table. "In that case, summon them both. They deserve a reward."

Miss Biyun nodded and quickly relayed the order.

Moments later, *Madam Luo and Madam Wang entered the hall, barely able to suppress their excitement. Bowing deeply, they greeted the Old Madam in unison.

"May the Old Madam be well."

"Rise," she instructed. "I’ve heard that you made these mooncakes yourselves?"

"Yes, Old Madam," they answered quickly.

"They taste good," she admitted. "However...." She paused, her eyes scrutinizing them. "There’s too much tapioca starch in them."

Tapioca starch?

*Madam Luo and Madam Wang exchanged a quick glance.

"We did add a bit of tapioca starch," *Madam Luo admitted hurriedly. "If the Old Madam dislikes it, we will use less in the future."

Inwardly, she made a mental note to inform He Shunzi of this.

The Old Madam, however, set her chopsticks down with a distinct finality. Her expression darkened.

"When you stand before me, you still dare to lie?" she said coldly. "Where do you find the audacity?"

The words sent a shiver down their spines.

"Call the steward," she ordered sharply. "These two have ulterior motives. Drive them out immediately. I will not employ dishonest people in my household."

Miss Biyun, seeing the Old Madam’s rare display of anger, wasted no time in summoning Steward Fu.

Within moments, the once——joyful *Madam Luo and Madam Wang found themselves trembling on the floor, their faces pale as they pleaded desperately for mercy.

Steward Fu entered swiftly and, upon hearing the accusations, wasted no words in carrying out the order.

"Forgive me, Old Madam," he said, bowing deeply. "It was my negligence in overseeing the kitchen that allowed them to be presumptuous."

"It is not about where the food was purchased," the Old Madam replied calmly. "A cook’s worth is not measured by whether food comes from within or outside the manor. Food is food, no matter who prepares it. However, deceit is unacceptable."

Her sharp gaze flickered toward Steward Fu.

"Find a new cook——someone honest, diligent, and clean. No need to rush. Take your time and find the right person."

"Yes, Old Madam. I will see to it immediately," Steward Fu promised.

As the servants bustled to clear away the remnants of the commotion, the Old Madam resumed her meal, her appetite undisturbed by the events that had just unfolded.

Miss Biyun hesitated before speaking. "Old Madam, finding a good cook in a place like Jinqiu County might prove difficult. Would you like me to bring someone from home?"

The Old Madam shook her head.

"I came here seeking peace. If I summon servants from home, sooner or later, the rest of my family will come knocking, and I have no interest in their endless chatter."

Her gaze softened.

"Besides, a person’s taste is shaped by their surroundings. Since we are to stay here for a while, we may as well embrace the flavors of the land."

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Chapter 134: Fighting

The Old Madam picked up another piece of mooncake, taking a small, deliberate bite. As she chewed, she spoke in a calm but resolute tone.

"When it comes to food, the ingredients are all the same. It’s merely a matter of preparation——cooked in different ways, dressed up to look more refined. But in the end, everything ends up in the stomach just the same. Whether it’s extravagant or simple isn’t important. As long as the taste is agreeable, that’s enough."

She nodded slightly in approval as she swallowed. "This mooncake is quite good. It’s about eighty percent as good as the ones I’ve had before. Tell the servants to buy more——I’d like to have some as snacks over the next few days."

"Yes, Old Madam," Miss Biyun responded with a smile, quickly passing on the instruction.

As always, the task was handed over to Steward Fu. Without hesitation, he agreed and sent Jinbao to find He Shunzi, the supplier who had been bringing fresh produce to Dexinyuan, to procure the mooncakes.

After that, he turned his attention to a more pressing matter——finding a new cook.

Jinqiu County was small, sparsely populated, and not exactly a hub for culinary talent. Good cooks were rare, and the two who had just been expelled, *Madam Luo and Madam Wang, had already been among the better ones available. Dismissing them both at once meant that, at least for the next few days, finding a suitable replacement would be difficult.

'At this rate, we’ll have trouble even putting decent meals on the table,' he thought grimly.

"Steward Fu," Jinbao suggested cautiously, "the remaining kitchen staff may not be skilled in fine cuisine, but they can still manage simple meals——light porridge and side dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. In the meantime, why don’t I go to the big restaurant in the county and bring back some prepared dishes? That way, we won’t be at a complete loss while we search for a proper cook."

Steward Fu hesitated. Logically, this shouldn’t be necessary——they had never relied on outside food before. However, under the current circumstances, it seemed the most practical solution. After all, the old lady had made it clear that she didn’t mind food bought from outside; she only despised being deceived.

"Alright," he relented with a nod. "Do as you suggested. And while you're at it, ask He Shunzi if he knows any skilled cooks."

Since He Shunzi had been supplying their kitchen for some time now, it stood to reason that he would be familiar with the best culinary talents in the area.

Jinbao acknowledged the order and quickly set off. Meanwhile, Steward Fu dispatched additional messengers to Changzhou Prefecture and the surrounding counties, hoping to find worthy candidates.

With the war recently ended, many displaced individuals were seeking work. Perhaps, with a bit of luck, they might come across a talented cook in need of employment.

*****

Elsewhere in Dexinyuan, *Madam Luo and Madam Wang were in the midst of packing their belongings. Their dismissal had been swift and humiliating, and now, under the watchful eye of a stern older servant, they were carefully collecting their things, ensuring they took only what rightfully belonged to them.

Both women had once thought they would spend the rest of their days working in Dexinyuan. Though they were not wealthy, their positions had provided them with stable incomes and a sense of security. *Madam Luo had even imagined helping some of her relatives find employment there in the future.

Now, all those dreams had crumbled.

The reality of their situation weighed heavily on them——especially on Madam Wang, whose hands trembled as she folded her clothes. She had a grandson back home, just starting his education, and she had been counting on her wages to support his schooling. Now, without a job, how would she afford his books, writing materials, and tuition?

Tears welled in her eyes, spilling down her wrinkled cheeks as she muttered bitterly under her breath. "This was all your idea," she whispered accusingly, her voice thick with emotion. "You were the one thinking about the reward. And look at us now——we’ve lost everything."

*Madam Luo, who had been quietly stewing in her own misery, stiffened at Madam Wang’s words. She turned, her expression darkening. "And you didn’t want the reward, too?" She snapped. "You were just as eager as I was! Don’t act innocent now."

Madam Wang clenched her jaw. "But it was you who suggested we keep quiet about the mooncakes. You even told Jinbao not to spread the news. And now, we’ve lost more than just our jobs——we’ve lost our dignity!"

"Don’t pretend like you had no part in this!" *Madam Luo shot back, her voice rising. "You were happy enough when we thought we'd get praised. Now that things have gone wrong, you’re blaming me?"

The tension between them escalated quickly. The resentment that had simmered beneath the surface for years suddenly erupted.

*Madam Luo pointed a trembling finger at Madam Wang. "You——if you don’t shut your mouth, I swear I’ll slap you right here and now!"

Madam Wang, already overwhelmed with frustration, didn’t hesitate. With a sharp motion, she raised her hand and struck *Madam Luo across the face.

The sound of the slap was loud and crisp, echoing in the quiet space. *Madam Luo staggered, momentarily stunned, before her face contorted in rage.

"You wretched old hag!" She screeched. Without thinking, she lunged forward, aiming a slap of her own at Madam Wang.

And just like that, the two women descended into a full-blown fight.

Their desperate scuffling soon drew the attention of the servants nearby. Watching the two former kitchen workers clawing at each other, an older servant scoffed in disgust.

"How pathetic," he thought.

Over the years, he had seen plenty of people get dismissed from service, but never before had he witnessed such an undignified spectacle.

"Enough," he barked, signaling for a few strong men to intervene.

Before *Madam Luo and Madam Wang could react, they were seized by the arms and unceremoniously dragged toward the courtyard’s side entrance. With one final shove, they were tossed out onto the dirt road.

Both women landed hard on their backsides, crying out in pain.

For several moments, they remained where they had fallen, too stunned to move.

Dexinyuan stood behind them, its grand walls illuminated by the warm glow of lanterns. But for them, it was no longer home.

A cold wind whistled through the bamboo groves, sending shivers down their spines. Their thin garments, damp with sweat from their earlier scuffle, provided little protection against the night’s chill.

*Madam Luo and Madam Wang glanced at each other.

Just a short while ago, they had been allies. Now, they had lost their jobs, their dignity, and——perhaps——their friendship.

Madam Wang exhaled, rubbing her bruised backside. "It hurts."

*Madam Luo sighed, nodding begrudgingly. "Yeah."

For the first time since their quarrel, the hostility between them faded. The futility of their situation was all too clear now.

Madam Wang cleared her throat awkwardly. "It’s getting late. Let’s walk together for a bit, then go our separate ways."

*Madam Luo hesitated before finally agreeing. "Alright."

And so, side by side——but keeping a small distance between them——the two women limped down the darkened road, their futures uncertain.

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Chapter 135: I Don’t Understand

As they trudged along the uneven path, *Madam Luo suddenly muttered, "If you think about it, all of this trouble started because of He Shunzi."

Madam Wang, who was still rubbing her sore arm from the earlier scuffle, paused for a moment before nodding fervently, like a chicken pecking at rice. "Isn't that the truth? If he hadn't been so meddlesome, bringing those  mooncakes to the garden, we wouldn't have ended up in this mess."

"Exactly! And don't forget the ice jelly," *Madam Luo added, her voice tinged with resentment. "That was also He Shunzi's doing."

As they walked in silence for a moment, the weight of their misfortune pressing down on them, a realization slowly dawned on *Madam Luo. She shook her head. "No... something doesn't add up."

Madam Wang furrowed her brows. "What do you mean?"

"Think about it," *Madam Luo said, lowering her voice as if afraid someone might overhear them. "We work in the kitchen. Our job is to prepare meals for the Old Madam. The one thing she has in abundance is food. If He Shunzi truly wanted to show his respect, wouldn't it have made more sense to gift her something else? Jewelry, fabrics, or even rare medicinal herbs? But no, he specifically chose to send food——delicacies that we can't even make ourselves."

Madam Wang's eyes widened slightly as the implication sank in. "You mean... he did this on purpose?"

*Madam Luo nodded gravely. "It's too much of a coincidence. He didn't just send food; he sent something superior to what we could offer. It feels like he was trying to outshine us——maybe even get us replaced."

"But..., could he really have predicted that we would serve the mooncakes to the Old Madam?" Madam Wang asked hesitantly.

*Madam Luo scoffed. "Probably not. But he knew Steward Fu and Jinbao would try them. If they started comparing our cooking to what He Shunzi provided, naturally, our skills would seem lacking in comparison. That would be enough to cast doubt on our abilities."

Madam Wang's face darkened as the theory took shape in her mind. The more she thought about it, the more convinced she became.

"That sneaky little fox," she spat, her voice thick with anger. "I was completely fooled by him. I thought he was just some honest farmer supplying vegetables. Who would have thought he had such schemes up his sleeve?"

*Madam Luo clenched her fists. "We can’t just let this go. I refuse to be played like this. We have to find He Shunzi and settle this score."

"That’s right! We need to teach him a lesson!" Madam Wang agreed, her anger flaring up again.

As if in response to their growing rage, thick clouds drifted across the night sky, shrouding the full moon and plunging the narrow path into darkness. The road, already rugged and uneven, now seemed even more treacherous.

The two women stumbled as they walked, their bodies aching from exhaustion and the bruises they had acquired earlier. More than once, they lost their footing, landing on the cold, hard ground with yelps of pain.

In the distance, a child's frightened voice echoed from a small farmhouse. "Daddy, Mommy..., I think there's a wolf outside...."

*****

Meanwhile, Xia Mingyue and her companions finally decided to retire for the night. After their long conversation, exhaustion took over, and as soon as their heads hit the pillows, they drifted into deep slumber.

The next morning, as the first rays of sunlight peeked over the horizon, the household bustled back to life. Xia Mingyue woke up early, just as she always did, and immediately got to work organizing the tasks for the day.

She sat at her small wooden desk, brushing her fingers over a blank sheet of paper before dipping her brush into the ink. With careful strokes, she outlined her short-term plans, determined to bring structure to her growing business.

Her top priority was selling the Xia Ji stall on West Street and finding a franchisee to take over its operations. This would free up her most capable workers and allow them to be reassigned to the 'central kitchen', solving her current manpower shortage.

Secondly, as the weather grew colder, she needed to transition most of her cold pot skewer menu to oden, a heartier and more suitable option for autumn and winter.

Thirdly, while Xia Ji had been running for almost half a year, the menu had remained largely unchanged. To keep customers engaged, she planned to introduce a few new dishes.

Lastly, she was eager to expand into new business ventures that would accelerate her income growth.

To ensure nothing was overlooked, she meticulously noted down every detail, listing all precautions to take during execution. She then placed the written plan on the small table beside her kang bed as a reminder.

As she was finishing up, Jiang Zhuguo, who often helped with household chores, entered the room to clean. Her eyes fell on the sheet of paper filled with dense characters. She squinted at it, scratching her head.

"I used to recognize some words, but I can't make sense of this at all," she muttered in confusion.

Xia Mingyue burst into laughter.

Of course, she couldn't understand it——Xia Mingyue had written in modern simplified Chinese characters, which were completely unfamiliar to the people of this era.

Suppressing her amusement, she cleared her throat. "Oh, this is a special writing style from my hometown. Some of the words are coded in a way that only locals would recognize. It's just a habit of mine."

Jiang Zhuguo accepted the explanation without suspicion, simply nodding as she wiped the table. She then carefully placed the paper back where it was.

But Xia Mingyue sighed inwardly.

Her limited literacy skills were becoming a significant obstacle. Even something as simple as drafting contracts for the Xia Ji franchise required her to rely on literate scholars.

For now, she had managed by hiring two students from the County School to write official documents, but with the upcoming autumn exams and next year's spring examination, they would soon be preoccupied. If they passed, they might become officials, making it even harder for her to seek their help.

The realization struck her——if she wanted to truly succeed, she couldn't depend on others for everything.

With a determined glint in her eyes, she added another item to the bottom of her to-do list:

Find time to study and improve literacy.

It was yet another step toward self-sufficiency, and though it wouldn't happen overnight, she was determined to make progress.

However, her musings were soon interrupted by a visitor.

He Shunzi had arrived, looking somewhat anxious yet hopeful.

"The people at Dexinyuan have asked me to buy more of those snow skin mooncakes," he explained. "The Old Madam enjoyed them and wants to have them as snacks for the next few days."

Xia Mingyue wasn’t surprised. Snow skin mooncakes had a delicate, soft texture, made from wheat flour and glutinous rice flour, and weren't baked like traditional mooncakes. Their subtle sweetness and refreshing taste made them a rare treat.

"I can certainly make them," she agreed, "but I don't have additional molds right now, so they'll still have the 'Mid-Autumn Festival' imprint on them. I hope Madam He won’t mind."

He Shunzi waved his hands. "That won’t be a problem! The steward at Dexinyuan said they only care about the taste. They've also given me a generous payment in advance, so I came straight to you."

"Very well," Xia Mingyue said with a nod. "I'll start preparing them later today. You can pick them up tomorrow afternoon."