Meng Zhao originally intended for Xu Ping to go, since his experience over the past few years had gradually made him capable of handling things independently. However, he then thought that Xu Yunrong's family only had this one nephew left, and if he were to go to the Western Regions, Xu Yunrong would definitely be very worried. After thinking it over, he thought of Gu Changwu instead.
“Godmother, actually I came here today to discuss something with you.” Meng Zhao carefully began, explaining the current plans for preparing the caravan, and then continued, “I also sent a message by carrier pigeon a few days ago to ask my second uncle for his opinion.”
After listening, Gu Lanying asked, "So, what did Changwu himself say about this?"
"The reply came very quickly. My second uncle said he was willing to go." Meng Zhao sighed softly. "But I think the reply came so quickly that he probably didn't have time to discuss it with his family. My second uncle's family is not in the capital, so I thought I would ask my godmother to help me ask the Gu family."
Actually, this is a difficult matter to bring up, because Gu Changwu is currently mainly responsible for supplying the braised pork shop to various places. Although he often has to go out, it is less dangerous. She did not want Xu Ping to travel far away because she was afraid that Xu Yunrong would worry. But now that Gu Changwu is going to the Western Regions, how can the Gu family not be worried?
As a junior, Shen Qinghe refrained from interrupting and simply watched his mother silently. Gu Lanying pondered for a moment before slowly speaking, "Since Changwu is willing to go, I, as his older sister, will naturally not stop him."
She took Meng Zhao's hand and said gently, "Zhao Zhao, I understand your concerns, but you also know that when the Gu family was so poor that they couldn't afford meat, it was thanks to your help that they were able to build a new house and get married. Now they are able to do this job thanks to you. If you think Changwu is suitable for this job, then let him do it without worry. I will take care of the Gu family."
Meng Zhao nodded solemnly: "My second uncle is quick-witted and steady in his actions. He is the most suitable person to be in charge of the caravan's cargo scheduling and personnel management. Moreover, cargo management is very important. I would really be worried if I didn't have my own people watching over it."
Gu Lanying smiled upon hearing this, "That's fine then. You always think things through before you do them, so I'm at ease. The Western Regions may be far away, but the opportunity is rare. As your older sister, I can't ruin his future because of my own selfishness."
Shen Qinghe stepped forward at the right moment and said gently, "Sister, if you are preparing a caravan to go to the Western Regions, I can help you. Every year, the Ministry of War has a lot of retired soldiers, including some good ones who used to guard the border. They have a lot of contact with people from the Western Regions. If you need me, I will ask someone to help you find out if there are any willing to go."
Meng Zhao's eyes lit up, his delight evident: "That's wonderful! Those who have served in the military are naturally disciplined and have practical experience, which is exactly the kind of talent the caravan needs." He then cast a grateful glance at Shen Qinghe, "Then I'll trouble you to take care of this matter."
Shen Qinghe smiled slightly, her eyes filled with a gentle smile: "There's no need for thanks between family members."
Gu Lanying laughed and said, "That's right, we're family, why are we being so formal? It's only natural for Qinghe to help you. If he dares to be ungrateful, just come and tell me, and I'll teach him a lesson!"
Just then, Granny Sun came in to report, "Madam, dinner is ready."
Meng Zhao quickly stood up: "Oh, godmother, it's getting late, I have to go back right away."
Gu Lanying grabbed her arm and said, "It's almost lunchtime, what are you going back for?" Without waiting for a reply, she ordered, "Granny Sun, quickly bring another set of chopsticks and a bowl." Turning to Meng Zhao, she smiled and said, "It's been so long since you've eaten at home. You can try some of the new dishes the kitchen has developed and give us your feedback."
Meng Zhao couldn't refuse, so she had to agree. As she watched the servants carrying exquisite dishes around the hall, she suddenly noticed that there were two more unfamiliar faces in the Shen family.
"Godmother, I see that we've added so many more people to the household. Isn't it a bit crowded living in this small courtyard? Why haven't you thought about moving to a more spacious house?"
Gu Lanying smiled and served her some food. "Why didn't you think about changing? When Qinghe was promoted before the New Year, I suggested that we buy another courtyard, but the child absolutely refused, saying that he was used to living here. Later, when he saw that there was really no room, I don't know when, he secretly bought the courtyard next door and planned to combine the two courtyards into one."
Meng Zhao was starving, and while shoveling food into his mouth, he mumbled, "Doesn't that mean we have to tear down the courtyard wall and rebuild it? It must take a lot of work, right? Where will you be staying during this time?"
Gu Lanying chimed in, "That's right, it'll be uninhabitable for at least a month, but it's alright. I've already spoken with your parents, and we'll be staying at the Meng residence for the time being." She smiled and placed a piece of braised pork on Meng Zhao's plate. "It's close by, so it'll be convenient to come and go, won't it?"
"Huh?" Meng Zhao paused, almost dropping a piece of meat on the table.
Seeing this, Gu Lanying asked with concern, "What's wrong, Zhaozhao? Aren't you happy that we're moving in?"
"Hehe..." Meng Zhao chuckled twice, glancing around at everyone at the table. Gu Lanying looked at her with a puzzled expression, while the two children looked on expectantly. Shen Qinghe, on the other hand, kept his head down, eating the rice in his bowl and refused to look at her. She quickly stuffed a mouthful of rice into her mouth to cover her embarrassment, "Happy, of course I'm happy."
Gu Lanying breathed a sigh of relief. "That's good. I didn't tell you because you haven't been home these past few days. I guess construction will start in the next few days."
Meng Zhao felt a little nauseous at the thought of living in the same courtyard as Shen Qinghe soon. After finishing her dinner, she prepared to leave.
Although they weren't far apart, Gu Lanying insisted that Shen Qinghe take her home, and Meng Zhao had no choice but to go out with him.
Night had fallen, and only a few lanterns were lit on the long street, but Shen Qinghe still tilted the lantern in his hand towards her to illuminate the path ahead.
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