Chapter 129 Chapter 129 is indeed about a lover.

"Aunt and Jinjin don't know, but not long after you left, the entire Qingjun Prefecture was under strict control. Soldiers were everywhere, checking every household. In our Si'an County alone, they found many people with problems with their household registration. Not to mention the prefectural city, they raided several families. Do you remember the Zhang family? The Zhang family from Zhang's Grain Shop in the county. Over a hundred people in the family were all arrested and exiled..."

Shu Chenghao and Song Jin had been friends since childhood and often visited Niu Tielan. They were close to the mother and daughter. Although he was a little reserved when he first arrived at the Song residence, he quickly became familiar with them and told them about what had happened in Si'an County recently.

In short, within just six months, Si'an County and even Qingjun Prefecture underwent a major reshuffle.

Many family businesses were completely wiped out, and even the prefect was arrested and imprisoned. A climate of fear gripped the city, and even the most arrogant and domineering individuals cowered like quails.

However, once the matter was completely resolved and the inspectors sent from above left, the once desolate prefecture and county, like frozen ground after a harsh winter, blossomed with spring warmth. Seeds hidden deep within gradually sprouted, filling the void of the unknown.

At this point, Shu Chenghao became somewhat smug: "Originally, because of my grandfather's imprisonment last time, I thought he was going to close the shop. But not only did he not close it, he even went to the prefectural city and reopened it, stockpiling a bunch of goods. Who would have thought that he would be lucky enough to catch the imperial examination, and business would be incredibly good, making him a fortune..."

Song Jin sat next to Niu Tielan, chewing on a piece of fried fish. Seeing his smug expression, she teased him, "Look at your grandfather, and then look at you. Tsk tsk, it's a good thing the old man didn't hand the shop over to you, otherwise, if it went bankrupt, you two would be homeless."

Shu Chenghao said smugly, "Now that I'm a scholar who passed the imperial examination, I won't be a wanderer, and I can easily find a job back in the county."

Song Jin teased, "Oh my, this is incredible! The last-place official!"

Shu Chenghao blushed and craned his neck: "As long as I pass the exam, who cares if I'm first or last?"

Song Jin smiled broadly, resting her chin on her hand, her bright eyes looking over, her voice clear and full of teasing, "The number one person is still sitting here, Shu Chenghao, how can you be so shameless?"

Yan Sheng sat next to Shu Chenghao, without a chance to interject. He watched Shu Chenghao and Song Jin getting along very well, feeling a little envious but helpless.

Although he and Song Jin had known each other since childhood, he had to help with chores at home when he was young. When he entered school, he cherished the opportunity and studied diligently every day. After school, he would practice writing, doing math, and memorizing in the sand, and he basically had no time to go out and play.

Even more tragically, his family was impoverished, and he only went to school with the help of Niu Tielan. He had neither the opportunity nor the money to buy him treats or pastries. Even if he managed to find sour fruit or catch wild fish, it was not worth mentioning.

Song Jin frequently went up the mountain, so these things were commonplace in their household.

They really can't be close.

Now, speaking of himself, Yan Sheng was both delighted and bittersweet, and carefully said, "There's another imperial examination after the New Year. I believe that if Ahao prepares well, he'll definitely succeed."

Song Jin chuckled and mocked mercilessly, "Shu Chenghao, do you believe him when he says you passed the exam, or do you believe I'm your father?"

Shu Chenghao nearly choked on his food, his face flushed red, and he gritted his teeth: "Song Jin!!!"

Song Jin laughed heartily, about to continue mocking her, when she received another blow to the head, letting out a howl.

Niu Tielan irritably placed a piece of radish on her plate, telling her to shut up: "Just eat yours."

She can't even write a single complete word, I don't know where she gets the courage to laugh at others.

Song Jin scoffed, lowered her head, and gnawed on the radish, complaining as she ate, "I don't like radishes."

Niu Tielan was too lazy to pay attention to her.

Does this brat not like carrots? She only likes meat.

After finishing with the child, Niu Tielan looked at Shu Chenghao and Yan Sheng and said, "You two were both raised by your aunt, so don't be shy. Stand up and get some food if you want."

The family disliked having outsiders present during meals, so unless it was absolutely necessary, they rarely had maids around them and usually did their own thing.

Yan Sheng and Shu Chenghao were not unsophisticated people. They knew that before they came to the capital to take the imperial examination, the prefectural government had specially hosted a grand banquet with a wide variety of dishes.

But what's in front of me is not bad at all.

Everything that flies in the sky, swims in the sea, and runs on the land—they all gathered together.

Not only are the dishes rare, but even the bowls and plates used to serve them are exceptionally exquisite; any one of them could cost an average family several months' worth of expenses.

Both of them were somewhat taken aback, and became even more careful while eating, lest they break something embarrassing and be unable to afford to pay for it.

The Song family's wealth and status need no further explanation.

Song Jin munched on the soft, chewy bear paw, then glanced at her somewhat reserved old friends across from her. After thinking for a moment, she asked, "So, you two are living together now?"

Yan Sheng nodded: "This is our first time here, and we don't know anyone here, so we rented a small courtyard together so we can look after each other."

Song Jin raised an eyebrow: "Once you leave after your exams, won't it be just Shu Chenghao all alone again?"

The implication was that they all believed he would pass the imperial examination this time.

Yan Sheng was secretly pleased, but remained humble, saying, "The imperial examinations are difficult. My results in this provincial examination were only average, and I'm afraid the palace examination will be even more challenging."

Following past practice, after the results of the imperial examinations were released, most of the successful candidates were assigned to various local posts, while a portion remained in the Hanlin Academy. The specific selection process depended somewhat on luck.

In the past, some top scholars were directly appointed to official posts, while others who ranked last were retained in the Hanlin Academy. It mainly depended on the Emperor's opinion and the legendary Grand Secretary Song's opinion.

Thinking of this, Yan Shengxin paused, subtly glancing at the man sitting next to Niu Tielan. He wore a gentle smile, remaining silent throughout, sitting quietly and seemingly unremarkable. However, his occasional gestures of serving Niu Tielan food betrayed their unusual relationship.

Looking at Song Jin's nonchalant expression, it seemed this had been going on for quite some time.

Yan Sheng couldn't help but think of the past.

When Niu Tielan first came to town, he was only five years old. When he first saw her, it was as if he had seen a fairy. Unfortunately, the fairy had descended to earth and was frail and sickly, needing to see a doctor every few days.

Everyone in the surrounding villages knew about this sickly beauty in their town. Although she was in poor health, she was incredibly beautiful, and every year many matchmakers would come to her house, only to be chased away by Song Jin with a stick.

She was extremely beautiful and intelligent, and everyone more or less guessed about her background.

Yan Sheng was no exception. He had suspected she was not simple, but he hadn't expected her to be this extraordinary, to have actually made contact with the legendary Grand Secretary. Thinking of the rumors circulating outside, he couldn't help but feel worried.

Although the two hadn't been in contact for years, the late Prime Minister Song had only recently passed away, and the Song family still had five children, raised by him. Each of these children held considerable power and was known for their cunning and treacherous nature; any dissatisfaction with this situation could be disastrous.

Even though Song Jin is a princess, she is still a woman and has always been straightforward; she might find it difficult to handle these situations.

Yan Sheng frowned slightly, a hint of worry creeping into his eyes.

Suddenly, the man raised his eyes and looked straight at him. Although he seemed gentle and approachable, Yan Sheng's heart skipped a beat, and his whole body tensed up instantly.

Qu Maoze looked at the young man and slowly said, "Young Master Yan has been looking at me, but is there something wrong with me?"

His reaction surprised Yan Sheng. Logically speaking, his 'shameful' relationship should have been kept extremely low-key.

This made everyone at the table look over.

Yan Sheng felt the pressure mounting. He took a deep breath and carefully spoke, "I come from a rural background and rarely see someone as handsome and refined as you, young master. I apologize for my rudeness."

Compared to Yan Sheng's nervous demeanor, Qu Maoze was remarkably calm and composed. In public, he appeared gentle and upright, a true gentleman, with a warm and harmless smile that made it difficult for anyone to feel wary.

He laughed, "So that's how it is. I thought Young Master Yan felt I shouldn't be here."

Yan Sheng: ...

Niu Tielan couldn't help but reach under the table and pinch Qu Maoze, signaling him not to push his luck.

She hadn't wanted him to come today, as it would be difficult to explain. But he insisted, feigning helplessness by saying he was ashamed and promising he wouldn't do anything, just wanted to experience life since he'd never been a part of their lives before.

So this is what honesty is?

If he hadn't said a word, even if others had noticed something, they wouldn't have been so inconsiderate as to ask so many questions; he just had to stir up trouble.

Looking at the two young people opposite her who were clearly embarrassed and at a loss, Niu Tielan frowned and gently bit her lip, feeling somewhat embarrassed herself, unsure of how to start the conversation.

Qu Maoze's identity is difficult to explain.

His identity and Song Shang's identity would definitely be kept separate. To others in the capital, it was fine; after all, the mother and daughter had appeared out of nowhere. It wouldn't be surprising if they were looking for partners or even remarrying. It all depended on whether the Song brothers could accept it.

But on the side of Yan Sheng and Shu Chenghao, two boys whose backgrounds they knew well...

In just six months, the aunt she had known for over ten years suddenly went from a small rural landowner to the high-ranking wife of the prime minister, and also suddenly had a lover—that's what Niu Tielan thought, which is why it was so difficult for her to talk about it.

Sixteen years ago, there was no matchmaker, no betrothal, no official status; sixteen years later, it remains the same.

Niu Tielan was depressed, and the thought made her even less inclined to introduce anyone.

So what if she's a mistress? She is a mistress after all.

She fell silent.

Song Jin was gnawing on a bear paw, and after a while, not hearing her speak, she glanced at her face, instantly stiffened, put down her chopsticks, wiped her mouth, cleared her throat, and said in a serious tone...

"Oh right, I haven't introduced you yet. This is Dr. Qu Maoze. We met him on the road. He fell in love with my mother at first sight and insisted on getting involved with her. Although he has no money, no house, and no car, he's good-looking and his medical skills are decent. He helped my mother get rid of her aunt. He'd be more or less a good match if he became a gigolo and married into the family."

Niu Tielan's lips twitched

Qu Maoze chuckled softly, resting his chin on his hand, a slight smile playing on his lips, and said in a drawn-out voice, "Your Highness's praise is too much for me to bear."

Song Jin felt a chill: "Who praised you? You pretty boy!"

Qu Maoze laughed: "Ordinary people can't become gigolos. It's my great fortune to be able to marry into a family with my face. If I'm marrying into the family, shouldn't I take my wife's surname?"

If the surname is Niu, then it would be Niu Maoze.

Niu Qushi

Niu Tielan shivered violently, rubbed her arms, lifted her foot from under the table, and stomped heavily on his foot. She turned her head and gritted her teeth: "That's enough. If you keep making a fuss, go back to your room."

Qu Maoze cupped his hands and smiled lightly: "I will heed your teachings, Madam."

Yan Sheng and Shu Chenghao had never seen anything like this before, and they felt they shouldn't be there. They avoided direct eye contact, but some people couldn't help but steal glances at them.

Ah, you know what, this guy really does deserve the title of "pretty boy." So this is the type my aunt likes!

Niu Tielan's fair face gradually flushed red, both angry and ashamed. This person was definitely doing it on purpose.

How can anyone be so shameless? Father and daughter seem to have inherited this trait; one or the other has skin as thick as a knife or spear.

Niu Tielan instantly turned her anger on Qu Maoze, glaring at him while also giving Song Jin a couple of sharp looks.

It was all because of that brat's temper.

Song Jin pouted and muttered, "When the snipe and the clam fight, the fisherman gets beaten."

Niu Tielan glared: "You're using such inappropriate language in front of Xiao Sheng and Ahao!"

Song Jin immediately looked at the two of them, her phoenix eyes narrowed slightly, and she clenched her fist: "Did I say something wrong?"

Two people: ...

This isn't about using it incorrectly; it's just pure random alteration.

Although somewhat speechless and surprised, it must be said that Song Jin's antics were no different from when she was in town. Yan Sheng and Shu Chenghao's initial restraint completely dissipated, and they became much more relaxed while eating and talking.

As for Qu Maoze, although he looks exceptionally young and isn't much older than them, he is technically an elder. Since Song Jin doesn't say anything, it's not their place to say anything.

Ignoring the brief incident with the pretty boy, they continued eating and chatting, discussing things in Si'an County and also the capital.

As they were talking, Song Jin suddenly remembered something, scratched her head, and asked, "Speaking of which, how is Magistrate Xiao doing?"

Magistrate Xiao had served in Si'an County for many years, during which time the county had developed in all aspects, and life had improved year by year. Logically, he should have received an excellent promotion when he was transferred, but unfortunately, he ran into the Liang family, this huge mess, at the very end.

When Song Jin thought of this unlucky fellow, she felt like she had forgotten something.

Yan Sheng looked at her innocent sighs, remained silent for a long time, silently mourned for Magistrate Xiao a few times, and said, "Before we came, Magistrate Xiao asked us to pass on a message to you, asking you to put in a good word for him on his behalf."

Song Jin: ...

I remember now, there seems to be such a thing.

Before she left, Magistrate Xiao even resorted to a self-inflicted injury ruse, asking her to put in a good word for him.

But this isn't busy, it's just busy.

Song Jin gave an awkward smile and turned to look at Qu Maoze: "When is the usual time for performance evaluation?"

Qu Maoze chuckled: "If bandits try to rob us, it might be next year."

Because of this, the imperial court would send troops to wipe out all the bandits in the surrounding mountains first, and the transfer would be postponed.

Song Jin clutched her head, wailing, "It's all over! Next time I see him, that old man will definitely keep bothering me with his nagging. No, wait, will I never see him again? What if he gets transferred to the northern deserts? Or to Lingnan? Some remote, desolate place, a den of bandits..."

Niu Tielan said irritably, "Alright, stop nagging. You don't remember things normally, but you keep bringing them up afterwards. If you really want to know, just ask your older brother."

Song Jin stopped muttering, her phoenix eyes widening instantly, like a wolf cub guarding its food, ears perked up: "Big brother? What big brother? I'm an only child, I have no brothers, Mother, don't talk nonsense."

Niu Tielan rubbed her forehead, too lazy to argue with her, and casually changed the subject: "Eat, eat more."

Stuff your mouth more, and you'll talk less.

Song Jin sat down angrily, her expression filled with bitterness and resentment, which gradually turned into murderous intent, making her a formidable and intimidating figure.

Niu Tielan slapped him.

Song Jin grinned, picked up the bowl, and prepared to perish along with the rice inside.

It's better to die from overeating than from anger.

Niu Tielan was speechless and too lazy to pay attention to this wolf cub. Instead, she turned to Yan Sheng and Shu Chenghao opposite her and said softly, "My eldest brother was a third-place scholar in the imperial examinations. He left behind a lot of books and materials when he took the exams. I had him organize some of them a couple of days ago. You can take them back and copy them for review. It should be very helpful for you in the future."

Yan Sheng and Shu Chenghao exclaimed in surprise, "This...this is far too valuable!"

Families like the Song family, whose children receive top-tier tutors throughout their education, possess a wealth of knowledge and writings accumulated over a decade that many families would covet but could not acquire even if they spent their entire fortunes.

Niu Tielan smiled and said, "It is indeed precious, so you must handle it carefully and not break it."

Both of them were somewhat flattered, but it was indeed difficult for them to refuse.

The imperial examination was supposed to be a fair election, but a deep divide had already formed based on family background.

Distinguished families with centuries of accumulated wealth, renowned teachers and prestigious institutions, and the ability to travel extensively, are inspired to express their feelings.

For ordinary families, sending their children to school is already an incredible feat.

But for many more families, even basic sustenance is a struggle.

Yan Sheng and Shu Chenghao, one with a string of good fortune who entered the best academy in the county, and the other from a well-off family with no worries about food or clothing, were both quite good among ordinary people. However, compared to other scholars of the same level, they were still far behind, let alone compared to Song Xingzhi.

The books he used and the notes he took were like a godsend to them.

Both of them were somewhat excited, their eyes filled with undisguised admiration as they looked at Niu Tielan.

When they were little, they often envied Song Jin for having such a beautiful and gentle mother; now that they're older, they envy her even more.

Aunt Niu is truly beautiful inside and out.

Song Jin leaned back in her chair, gently rubbing her stomach, glancing at the two of them with a smug expression.

No matter how much she envied her, it was useless; her mother was hers.

...

Ultimately, there are differences in family background and gender.

Yan Sheng and Shu Chenghao knew that now that they were in the capital, they could no longer casually visit people for chats as they had in the county towns. Furthermore, they had exams to take and needed to give it their all.

Therefore, they should cherish today even more.

After their meal, the two did not immediately take their leave. Instead, they moved to another location, strolling around the Song residence and admiring its scenery. They then gathered at the pavilion to enjoy the snow and chat.

It wasn't until the hour of Shen (3-5 PM) that Yan Sheng finished his tea and looked at Niu Tielan, who was almost completely wrapped in a cloak.

She used to be in poor health, her face was always pale, and she was thin and fragile, with a strong sense of illness, as if a gust of wind could blow her away. She was fragile, but not weak. She would back down when faced with trouble, but she would never run away. She would melt away trouble little by little like a spring breeze and rain.

After half a year apart, Niu Tielan's illness had largely dissipated; her complexion was rosy, her cheeks fuller, and she exuded a gentle and serene aura, making it difficult for anyone to speak harshly to her.

Yan Sheng exhaled slowly, the warmth within him turning into frost outside, a misty fog that blocked his view and his path forward.

He wasn't actually sure if what he was doing was the right thing to do.

His foundation is too shallow, so shallow that it would crumble at the slightest step. He has seen too little, his vision is too short-sighted, and he cannot see through the filth hidden beneath the glitz and glamour.

Fortunately, he's always been lucky, and this time shouldn't be any different.

Suppressing the myriad thoughts in his mind, Yan Sheng slowly stood up, trying to keep his voice steady, and said, "I've encountered many things I can't understand these days, and I'd like to ask Auntie for some guidance."

Seeing his slightly nervous expression and the clenched hands at his side, Niu Tielan's heart softened.

Over the years, she had witnessed how hard Yan Sheng had worked, and his character was beyond question.

The situation must mean something has happened.

Without hesitation, she gently rose and smiled tenderly, "The red plum blossoms in the courtyard are in full bloom; let's talk over there."

Meeting her gentle gaze, Yan Shengyu's anxiety quickly dissipated. He let out a long sigh, looking more cheerful, and grinned, "Then I'll go first and help Auntie tamp the ground down."

Niu Tielan smiled with his lips pursed.

When she first arrived in town, little Yan Sheng was just like that, nervously and awkwardly walking over, stammering as he offered to pave the way for her.

She laughed, "Then you'd better stomp your feet firmly, the snow outside is heavy."

Yan Shengen said twice, "Don't worry, I'm all grown up now. One kick from me is as strong as two kicks from before."

...

The two walked towards the red plum tree, the snow falling lightly, one after the other.

Song Jin leaned back in her chair, arms crossed, and couldn't help but whistle: "Ah, youth is truly wonderful."

To the naked eye, Qu Maoze appears flawless, but when compared side-by-side, the difference between genuine and feigned youth is all too obvious.

Song Jin's mind opened up. She had always thought her mother didn't need to find a partner; being with her forever was enough.

These days, since everyone has to find a partner anyway, isn't it better to be young than old?

Her eyebrows arched, her eyes gleaming with mischief, and she grinned at the person, saying, "Don't you think so?"

Qu Maoze watched Niu Tielan's retreating figure silently, his eyes gradually darkening.

He knew the brat was just a troublemaker, and he knew that young man was nothing special, but that didn't stop him from finding the scene jarring.

He gently snapped the chair handle in his hand, turned his head to look at his son's cheeky expression, and chuckled softly: "A letter arrived by carrier pigeon yesterday, saying that General Song and his men are nearing the capital. According to the marching distance, they are at most two or three hundred li away from the capital."

Upon hearing this, the slyness in Song Jin's eyes vanished, replaced by instant delight. She jumped to her feet, waved, and ran off, shouting, "Mom, I'm going out to play! I won't be back tonight, don't worry about me! See you next time, Shu Chenghao and Yan Sheng..."

Qu Maoze watched her joyful figure disappear, then turned to look at the red plum blossoms in the distance, a smile playing on his lips.

As the New Year approaches, those who have been away from home are returning.

It's time for the eagle at home to go out for a stroll.