Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
The alluring consistency and appearance of the betel nut taro made it a tempting addition to their meals. Inspired by its delicious taste, Qiao Xuan decided to cultivate more taro plants to create high-quality taro balls, a delicacy they could enjoy in the future.
As September arrived, Qiao Xuan began sorting through the items they would bring to the province. They had nearly 100 kilograms of snow fungus and 800 lipsticks, which they intended to take along. Additionally, they planned to bring a variety of harvested goods for First Madame.
Among these items were the lotus roots they had, but they also included a selection of taros. They would also bring Gastrodia elata, heterophylla, and figs. Other fruits such as ripe dragon fruits, pineapples, bananas, papayas, tangerines, and sugarcanes would also be included.
While the quantity of these fruits was not substantial, their freshness and vibrant flavors added a sense of confidence to Qiao Xuan. The fruits from the southern region thrived remarkably, particularly the dragon fruits and papayas, enhancing the array of offerings they would present to First Madame.
In addition to the fruits mentioned earlier, Qiao Xuan had plans to grow lychees, longans, and mangoes, as long as everything went well after the cold winter.
The fruit trees had grown thick, their trunks as wide as her arms, demonstrating their robust and healthy condition. They promised a bountiful harvest in the coming year.
With all preparations in order, Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan, accompanied by Nis. Fang, Elder Uncle, Yang Xiaoni, Shao Sanlang, Qi, Taotao, Shao Junyan, and Shao Qing, embarked on their journey to the province for a delightful time.
Eldest Uncle initially hesitated to join, but Ms. Fang insisted on his presence. It was necessary to have someone remain in the village for the sake of the familys security and stability.
Shao Dalang and Ms. Xu chose to stay behind, attending to the care of their youngest son. The little boy was still too young to embark on a long trip. However, Ms. Xu held hope in her heart, believing that there would be future opportunities for them to travel there.
Qiao Xuan entrusted the care of Ms. Xu to Lixia and Liqiu, while Chunyu and Chunfeng accompanied the group on their journey.
Due to the construction of the school, the first section of the Shao family had gained recognition in the village, which provided reassurance to Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan to leave only Ms. Xu and Shao Dalang at home. With the support of the Land Officer and Elderly Men, anyone causing trouble to the family would not be tolerated.
They had hired three wagons for the trip. One wagon was designated for carrying goods and presents, while the other two served as transportation for the travelers. They set off from the county early on the 5th of September.
Qiao Xuan deliberately did not inform Madame Qiao about their departure, nor did she allow her to join them on the journey. Qiao Xuan was determined to keep them out of their affairs and prevent them from exerting any influence or control over their plans.
The Qiao Family remained unaware that Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan had already traveled to the province for their own shopping trip. Meanwhile, Madame Qiao was still in discussions with County Magistrate Qiao about their planned visit to the Yuezheng Family on the 8th of September, intending to leave on the 7th.
Madame Qiao believed that if they could spend the festival together, it would strengthen their relationship with the Yuezheng Family. Officer Qiao supported this idea wholeheartedly.
On the 6th day, Madame Qiao sent Auntie Ling to fetch Qiao Xuan from Shaoding Village to bring her back to the mansion, so they could travel together the following morning. However, to her surprise, Auntie Ling returned alone.
Auntie Ling informed Madame Qiao that the Qiao Family had already departed for the province the previous day. Madame Qiao couldn’t believe what she was hearing. “What are you saying? How dare she…”
Qiao Wei sneered and suggested, “l knew that girl was just pretending.. Mom, let’s inform father about this so that he can reprimand her!”