Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
Xiaoqi’s eyes lit up with joy upon hearing his parents’ agreement. “Mom, dad, you… you agreed?”
Ms. Fang and Eldest Uncle couldn’t help but feel a pang of bitterness as they witnessed their son’s elation upon receiving their approval. They realized that Qi truly desired to join the army, and it wouldn’t be fair to confine him at home. They had to let him pursue his aspirations.
“Yes, we did. Just remember to stay safe and come back unharmed,” Eldest Uncle affirmed.
A tinge of sadness crept into Shao Xiaoqi’s expression. He nodded earnestly. “Mom, dad, don’t worry. I will take care of myself and return home safe and sound.’
“Okay, okay! That’s good to hear!” Ms. Fang replied, her voice filled with a mixture of relief and concern. She shared a few more words of advice and encouragement with Qi, who accepted them all.
Ms. Fang felt a sense of relief after receiving consolation from Shao Yunduan and Qiao Xuan.
Shao Sanlang and Shao Dalang were taken aback by their Fifth Brother’s support for Qi. They hadn’t expected him to side with Qi in this matter. As they contemplated Qi leaving for the army in February, a sense of sadness washed over them.
If their Fifth Brother believed that Qi would be fine, they took solace in the notion that he would ensure Qi’s safety. However, a lingering worry remained: What if something were to happen?
When would Qi return to visit them after this? Would it be several more years?
The thought of a prolonged separation only deepened their sorrow.
The entire village was in a state of chaos due to the recruitment process.
The Land Officer had announced that anyone interested in joining the army could freely apply. However, it was widely understood that only the foolish would willingly step forward. As a result, they resorted to drawing lots.
Those selected through the drawing would be obligated to join the army on behalf of the village. It was seen as a fair approach.
However, to everyone’s surprise, the first section of the Shao Family decided to volunteer without waiting for the drawing.
Qi was enlisting in the army!
The news sent shockwaves throughout the village!
The villagers had assumed that the first section of the Shao Family would be exempt from the drawing process. After all, Shao Yunduan held a prestigious position as a Recommended man, bringing honor to the clan and sparing them from any troubles within the village.
Moreover, the first section of the Shao Family had already made significant contributions, donating vast stretches of land and funds for the school. These acts of generosity had earned them a level of respect and exemption from the drawing.
However, those who voiced their dissent were expected to make their own contributions in the form of donations towards the fields and school before they were allowed to express their opinions.
They had made such significant contributions to the village, and it was only fitting that they received certain privileges in return.
That was what they rightfully deserved.
However… Qi had volunteered!
“What on earth is the Shao Family thinking? This is outrageous!” “Yes, how could they allow Qi to do this? It’s not a laughing matter!”
“l wouldn’t have let him do it if I were them.”
“Do you think that Recommended Man Shao has some insider information that could benefit them from the recruitment?”
“You think they’re after personal gains?”
Despite the confusion and speculation, the matter had been settled.
The Shao Family breathed a collective sigh of relief and celebrated.
Ms. Yan also felt relieved. She couldn’t help but express her gratitude to Qi.
She believed he was capable enough to ensure his own safety. If her husband had been selected through the drawing of lots, it would have been a dreadful situation.
Ms. Niu and Second Uncle shared the same sentiment. They finally felt a sense of relief when Qi volunteered, knowing that their own son was spared from being chosen.
Ms. Zhang’s hands clenched tightly, her head lowered, and a coldness emanated from her eyes. Her lips twitched with disdain.
She despised seeing Ms. Yan showering their parents with flattery .
The first section of the family had never treated her well or helped her attain any form of prosperity. The most they had done for her was share some food. Yet, she still visited them whenever she found the time, seemingly content..