106,1 - Little Peasant Wife

Jing Ao Xue returned to the village and, alongside Shen Lu Man, tidied up their home briefly. They cleaned the small game brought back from hunting and marinated it with spices, planning a good meal for the evening. Although Jing Ao Xue's cultivation level had advanced to the point where fasting should no longer be necessary, she still cherished her three meals a day. Having once struggled to find a proper meal during the apocalypse, she now appreciated every good dish she could have. Cultivators typically fasted to avoid accumulating impurities from grains, which could impede cultivation. However, Jing Ao Xue had wood-based abilities and, over four years, her proficiency in them had surpassed even her cultivation progress, reverting to her initial level of the ninth rank. Her body would naturally expel impurities due to her enhanced wood powers, so impurities were no longer a concern for her. It was precisely because of Jing Ao Xue's wood abilities that Shen Lu Man swiftly overcame her body forging stage. Whenever Jing Ao Xue cultivated, Shen Lu Man would wrap herself around her, benefiting from the expelled wood energy that refined her own form and expelled impurities. In just a few years, she was about to transition to the next phase. While demons generally had longer lifespans, their cultivation journey was arduous, often consuming most of their lives, with few achieving the Nascent Soul stage even in old age. This was a frustrating reality. Only humans, favored by the heavens with spiritual roots, could form a Nascent Soul within a thousand years if they progressed swiftly. In contrast, a millennium might barely suffice for a demon to emerge from their body forging phase. Shen Lu Man's accelerated progress stemmed from numerous opportunities. The first was the Phoenix Flame, which transformed her into a demon. With the flame eternally burning within her, her outward appearance was crystal-clear and fiery, like flowing blood. The greater credit lay with Jing Ao Xue's consistent assistance in her cultivation. Jing Ao Xue's wood powers developed more rapidly partly due to her conscious effort to channel this energy outward, focusing on enhancing her wood abilities while slightly neglecting her spiritual power advancement. Shen Lu Man, aware of this, was grateful and had urged Jing Ao Xue to concentrate on improving her cultivation. However, Jing Ao Xue would respond calmly that there was no rush. Two years earlier, Shen Lu Man had crafted a poison spell, yet Jing Ao Xue had learned that indulging in such matters during the body forging stage could hinder advancement. She endured two more years without complaint, even when Shen Lu Man saw her struggle and wished she would relent. This revealed Jing Ao Xue's priority for her well-being over other matters. As Shen Lu Man reflected, a warmth surged through her heart. Watching Jing Ao Xue hum a tune cheerfully beside her, she couldn't help but ask, “What’s making you so happy?” Jing Ao Xue often seemed perpetually in good spirits. Jing Ao Xue paused briefly and chuckled, "I just noticed that herbs have been planted in our field, something that wasn’t there before. Wu Zhi Yong is truly dependable, as I was saying..." Before she could finish her thought, she noticed a group of women gathered near her field, whispering among themselves. Jing Ao Xue squinted, her excellent hearing and vision identifying a few familiar faces known for their gossiping habits, friends of the late Zhang Jia Auntie. After Zhang Jia Auntie's mysterious murder, rumors had spread suggesting friction between her and her family, hinting Jing Ao Xue was responsible for their demise due to her criminal connections. Although the village head only lightly admonished such rumors, his lukewarm response seemed to confirm their speculation. Jing Ao Xue was disinterested in confronting the villagers, simply advising them to report to the authorities if they had evidence. The villagers, unversed in the city ways, avoided the courthouse out of fear, let alone approached it voluntarily. Even the Han family, antagonistic since her arrival, had been intimidated by her. Han Ju Ren, absent from the village, left them cautious in provoking her further. The current gathering near her land likely harbored ill intentions. Jing Ao Xue exchanged a glance with Shen Lu Man, choosing to observe the situation unfold. One woman remarked, "The Wu family is quite kind, acting like Jing Ao Xue’s lackeys. I noticed Wu Zhi Yong hasn’t tended to his own fields but helps Jing Ao Xue's plants. You think maybe..." Her insinuation was matched by another woman's agreement. “Exactly! Why else would he help her with the fields? Jing Ao Xue always flirted with the village men. Wu Zhi Yong, with those muscles, is irresistible to any woman, let alone a promiscuous one.” Jing Ao Xue bit her lip at the nasty comment, ready to confront the speakers until another said, “You shouldn’t say that. Despite her looks, Jing Ao Xue is still an outsider. Wu Zhi Yong is married; being together isn’t right.” Chiming in, she slyly insinuated, “I think Wu Zhi Yong fancies Jing Ao Xue’s wife instead. That woman’s got a great figure and personality. When my husband helped build a house, he said Wu Zhi Yong worked hardest. Must mean something.” She tutted twice, adding, “I bet they’re like Wu Dawang, and her wife’s been with Wu Zhi Yong already.” Their laughter came to an abrupt halt upon noticing Jing Ao Xue nearby, her expression icy. She advanced dangerously, her smirk cold, “You’re all quite the busybodies, neglecting your chores to gossip on my land. I tolerated your nonsense before, but now—apologies, here’s twenty taels of silver.” Drawing two pieces from her purse, actually her storage pouch, she flung them at the loudest gossips, prompting their cries of pain. Firmly, she declared, “This is for your medical expenses. Let me teach you a lesson in proper conduct!” Without waiting for a response, she swiftly quelled the lot of long-tongued women. They lay on the ground groaning, and Jing Ao Xue kicked one, warning, “Next time, watch yourselves. I’ve killed before; adding another doesn’t bother me!” Referring to past apocalyptic events and Liang Sheng Rong, her words sparked panic, perceived as a confession to the Zhang tragedy. Their faces went pale with fear, profusely apologizing. Jing Ao Xue scoffed and barked, “Get lost! If I catch you near my property again, I’ll rip off your limbs!” Hastily supported, the women limped away. If a man had struck them, it would’ve been excessive, but as an Archaian, Jing Ao Xue, once a woman before crossing realms, felt no guilt. In her foul mood, they deserved it! Shen Lu Man joined by her side, consoling, “Why bother with mere mortals?” Aware Jing Ao Xue hadn’t exerted even a fraction of her strength, she knew those women would have perished otherwise. Jing Ao Xue rolled her eyes, “It’s no different from dealing with an ant; if it aggravates me, I’ll crush it without hesitation!” Seeing her unappeased anger, Shen Lu Man patted her back gently, “Let’s go now.” Jing Ao Xue, disgruntled, nodded in agreement but suddenly said, “We should visit Wu Zhi Yong. We rarely stay in the village, so rumors don’t often reach us, but Wu Zhi Yong’s always in the fields and must endure plenty of badmouthing. It's unfair to him.” Shen Lu Man hesitated before nodding in assent. They headed to Wu’s home, where Wu Zhi Yong was busy preparing dinner. Despite the couple taking medicinal pills in recent years, their limited lifespan meant they were nearing their ends. By last year, they had withdrawn from affairs, enjoying familial warmth. Wu Zhi An had finally recovered from several years of poor health, and unexpectedly, his wife conceived, bearing twin sons the following year. Ecstatic, Wu Zhi An found his wife pregnant again last winter, now six or seven months along, her belly too big for chores. Hence, cooking had fallen on Wu Zhi Yong. He excelled in culinary skills, his dishes as delectable as any prepared by family members. Jing Ao Xue paused as she observed him working fervently over the outdoor stove. Wu Zhi An, meanwhile, was overwhelmed caring for his lively twin sons alone. More rambunctious than Chun Ge’er and equally mischievous, they disappeared in the blink of an eye. Chun Ge’er usually studied in town, returning only occasionally. Wu Mengqiu was at home, but Wu Zhi Yong had, a few years back, arranged with Qin Yishu to bring two governesses from the capital. They were now busy teaching in their newly built courtyard, leaving Wu Mengqiu unable to break free. Wu Zhi An was overwhelmed by his children's antics and threatened, "Behave, or I'll spank your bottoms." The twins, almost identical, stuck out their tongues cheekily, ignoring the threat. "Daddy's mean! We’ll tell Mommy on you! Mommy, Mommy, look, Daddy wants to spank us!" They scampered toward their mother's room, where she rested, much to Wu Zhi An's chagrin. His wife, reportedly pregnant with twins again, was seven months along, and due to her large belly, often had to rest. Her recent swelling had been keeping her awake at night. Wu Zhi An had just managed to coax her to sleep after much effort, only for the two mischievous little ones to disturb their mother. He hadn't intended to really spank them, as both children were precious to him. But in his irritation, he couldn't help but give a light pat to their backsides. The children, usually pampered by their grandparents, were shocked by this sudden 'injustice' and burst into tears. This commotion woke Wu Zhi An's wife, who struggled to the window and asked, "What's going on? Why are the children crying?" Wu Zhi An, plagued with a headache, rushed over to comfort her. With the Wu household in such chaos, Jing Ao Xue found it hard to start a conversation with Wu Zhi Yong. When she approached Wu Zhi Yong, he greeted her with delight, "You're back in the village, brother! Oh, by the way, I've already planted herbs on your twenty acres. Tomorrow I'll bring my brother and nephew to plant our own fields with herbs." Thanks to Jing Ao Xue's support over the years, Wu Zhi Yong had made a considerable amount of money, amassing tens of thousands of taels, making him quite unique in the village. However, he was firm in keeping a low profile, choosing to still live in his old home and not employ others. Jing Ao Xue flashed a helpless smile just as Wu Zhi An emerged, rubbing his face. Seeing her awkwardly, he said, "You're here! Would you like to stay for dinner?" Jing Ao Xue laughed, "No need. Your home's so lively I doubt you can handle another guest." Wu Zhi An scratched his head apologetically, "It's those boys. Way more trouble than Chun Ge’er ever was." He sighed, reminiscing how Chun Ge’er, now older and more mature from attending school, would often help by taking the younger boys out to play when he visited. Jing Ao Xue chuckled, sensing his hidden joy. In the eyes of a mortal, more children meant a more bustling household and future mutual support among siblings. It also meant Wu Mengqiu would have her brothers to lean on when she married, protecting her from potential mistreatment. Deciding to abandon her earlier intentions, Jing Ao Xue lingered for a bit until the family prepared for dinner, then took her leave. Walking alongside Shen Lu Man toward the Qin family, Jing Ao Xue sighed and mused, "Wife, why do I suddenly feel like not wanting children anymore?" Shen Lu Man blushed, admonishing, "You can't just decide not to have children on a whim!" Her body was highly fertile, and perhaps after reaching the demon core stage, she could slightly control it. Liu Er, their child, didn't require much concern from them. Once one's cultivation improved, having children wouldn't be as simple. She only entertained the thought of having another quietly, knowing that if she did conceive, Jing Ao Xue wouldn't force her to abort. Jing Ao Xue, aware of Shen Lu Man's shy nature and tendency to blush easily, didn't press the matter. She thought of their daughter Liu Er, now ten, resembling her but growing less similar as she aged. Once a near mirror image, Liu Er now reflected only traces of Jing Ao Xue's looks. Yet, Liu Er exuded a noble grace, something even royal princesses lacked as per Qin Yishu. Sighing, Jing Ao Xue curiously asked, "What was Liu Er like as a child?" Her memory of Liu Er's early demeanor was fading, and she struggled to reconcile it with the independent young girl before her. Perhaps once timid and soft, her daughter's current demeanor seemed almost alien to her recollection. Shen Lu Man paused, recalling, "All newborns are wrinkled and red; Liu Er was no exception. She cried a lot, her tears endless, and I once worried they might harm her eyes, but later..." Liu Er, with her tender heart, only matured rapidly due to the Liu family incident. Reflecting, Shen Lu Man felt a pang of guilt and sorrow. Glancing at Jing Ao Xue, they both shared a somber moment, knowing that Liu Er's unfortunate childhood stemmed partly from their negligence. The original Jing Ao Xue's abusive behavior, compounded by Shen Lu Man's preoccupations, left Liu Er alone and vulnerable. When the present Jing Ao Xue entered their lives, Liu Er briefly experienced a more cheerful existence, her stutter improving too. Yet the precious peace was shattered by the Liu family affair. Shen Lu Man clenched her teeth, calculating time, "It's been nearly five years, just shy by three months." Jing Ao Xue's eyes gleamed coldly, "Indeed, that female cultivator is due to return soon. Qin Yishu has almost prepared for her move." With steely resolve, Shen Lu Man declared, "Once I reach the demon core stage, the first person I aim to kill is the National Preceptor!" Jing Ao Xue nodded, "Yes, wife, I'll hand you the knife." Stunned, Shen Lu Man gave her a look, "How capable you are." Jing Ao Xue shrugged, helplessly admitting her cultivation at just the tenth level of Qi Refining was no match for the Foundation Establishment cultivator, the National Preceptor. Apart from not being a burden to Shen Lu Man, she felt powerless. Seeing her crestfallen and pouting, Shen Lu Man's heart softened, and she peppered her with kisses and comforting words until her spirits lifted. Arriving at the Qin residence, Qin Yishu was already preparing dinner. In the courtyard, Qin Yishu was guiding a young Archaian in martial training. This child, Wushuang, shared an innate enthusiasm for martial arts akin to her at that age. However, she diverged from Qin Yishu in one key aspect: her hatred for reading. Qin Yishu didn't pressure her; if she disliked reading, she simply didn't have to. This stance deeply frustrated Shen Taihua, who would fume and glare. The distinguished imperial teacher, renowned as a great scholar, was embarrassed by having a pupil who was martial-obsessed and illiterate. Whenever he resolved to teach her, Wushuang would grow restless, fidgeting no longer than a quarter hour before either flopping around or dozing off. If scolded further, she'd clasp his legs and implore him pitifully. Despite himself, he was fond of Wushuang, having watched her grow, and felt a deeper attachment to her than even Qin Zhengming, her great-grandfather in name. His discipline softened particularly for her. Raised with love, Wushuang was a little spoiled. Her regard placed her mother Gu Baiwei as the strictest, followed by her sister Liu Er, her Shi Mu, and finally her grandfather and master Shen Taihua. Her great-grandfather and Gu Grandfather came last, and unquestionably, the lowest was Jing Ao Xue. Every visit from Jing Ao Xue meant Liu Er's departure, a fact Wushuang lamented. Sweating from her practice, she immediately began to grumble upon spotting Jing Ao Xue, tugging at her mother's clothes and hopping in displeasure, "Oh no, Aunt Jing is here again. Sister Liu Er is leaving!" Qin Yishu smiled gently, "Mind your manners, Wushuang. Come say hello." Reluctantly, Wushuang shuffled over, "Hello, Aunt Jing." Her demeanor brightened upon seeing Shen Lu Man, whom she favored. "Aunt Shen, you're here!" She liked Shen Lu Man because her presence was comforting, even more so than Liu Er's. Impulsively, she raced over, clinging to Shen Lu Man's leg, beaming up, "I love Aunt Shen the most. Do you have any treats?" Shen Lu Man, sensing Jing Ao Xue's playful jealousy over her rapport with the child, laughed. From her storage pouch, she produced some homemade pastries she had brought along. "Here you go, Wushuang, you've been a good child; enjoy." Elated, Wushuang sang praises before darting off to the study in search of Liu Er. Qin Yishu approached with a smile, “You’re here, come in and sit.” Jing Ao Xue shook her head, “I’m starving, eager to take Liu Er home for dinner.” Qin Yishu teased, “Our cook was once an imperial chef, quite skilled, yet even he can’t keep you here. Perhaps it’s time to bring in someone new.” Jing Ao Xue rolled her eyes, “Don’t joke, the cook’s food is great, but it’s nothing like my wife’s cooking. However, I’ll package up some dishes to take home.” She appreciated the imperial chef’s skills, but nothing surpassed her fondness for her wife’s cooking. Still, she never turned down good food when it crossed her path. Qin Yishu was amused, “You…” Gu Baiwei, resting her hand on her back, came out to greet them, “You’re here, come on in.” Jing Ao Xue glanced at her nine-month belly, complex emotions stirring. She quietly remarked to Qin Yishu, “You’re quick, onto your second one already.” Qin Yishu smiled lightly, “I never intended for my wife to endure too much, but Baiwei wanted to give Wushuang a brother. She frets easily; though I’ve tried to ease her worries, it’s best to let her do as she wishes.” Jing Ao Xue clicked her tongue in admiration. Seeing her close friends starting families made her feel a bit of urgency she hadn’t anticipated. Seated in the main room, Shen Lu Man engaged in animated discussions with Gu Baiwei on child-rearing topics—which were beyond Jing Ao Xue's expertise. Feeling out of place, she talked with Qin Yishu about her plans. “Have you set everything up?” she asked. Qin Yishu nodded, “The country is fraught with internal and external troubles, compounded by frequent disasters. People have resorted to cannibalism in the north. Within about a year, I should be able to secure the throne.” Jing Ao Xue offered genuine appreciation, “Thank you, and congratulations.” Political upheaval had minimal direct impact on her, yet she could sense the tension during her town visits. Their small southern town buzzed with unease, and conditions were far worse in the northern capital, where fear pervaded. The northwest border, lacking Qin Yishu’s deterrence, faced aggression from a young and capable new emperor with ambitions and skill. The enraged emperor continued dispatching troops, only to suffer mounting losses. The erstwhile formidable Qin family, primarily Qin Yishu, had been sidelined; the remaining ones became puppets, incapable of leading during a national crisis. Desperately, the emperor opened peace talks, relinquishing border territories and paying hefty reparations. Such failures underlined his downfall, yet rather than facing reality, he immersed himself in alchemy. Neglectful of governance, he refused to cede power to his sons, plunging the court and public morale into chaos. Princes now schemed, consolidating power to vie for the throne. Qin Yishu, from a thousand miles away, observed unemotionally, poised to seize his advantage in due time. Jing Ao Xue yearned for the conclusion of this farce to restore peace. Qin Yishu shared this vision, driven by an unwavering attachment to the dynasty despite necessity forcing her hand. Their exchanged glances conveyed mutual understanding. Liu Er approached, following Shen Taihua, her smile warming upon seeing Jing Ao Xue and Shen Lu Man. Shen Taihua, perched on a bench, playfully taunted young Qin Wushuang, who expertly dodged his jokes, swiftly climbing Liu Er’s leg with deft agility. Allowing Wushuang her fun, Liu Er remained still until the child perched atop her shoulder, pleading in a sweet voice, “Sister Liu Er, sleep over with me again tonight? Don’t go home with the big meanie, our cook’s food is amazing.” Liu Er chuckled, shaking her head, “Another time perhaps, I’ll visit.” Ignoring Wushuang’s melodramatic wails, she respectfully addressed Shen Lu Man, “Mother, thank you for waiting. Can we go home now?” Jing Ao Xue fidgeted uncomfortably and stood, intending to pat Liu Er’s shoulder. As she extended her hand, Wushuang bared her teeth threateningly, prompting her to retract, fearing for the child’s teeth. Smiling wryly, she said, “Liu Er, I’ve told you, no need for such formality with us.” Liu Er nodded, seemingly ignoring her words. Jing Ao Xue felt a sting of wistfulness, until Liu Er drew close, her face flushed, “I miss Mother dearly. Let’s go home.” This brought a bright smile to Jing Ao Xue’s face, as she eagerly agreed. Pouting, Wushuang lamented, “Sister Liu Er! I care for you more! You’re not thinking about Wushuang!” Liu Er chuckled, “I think about you too, Wushuang.” Exultant, Wushuang cast a triumphant glance at Jing Ao Xue, hugging Liu Er’s neck to showcase their bond. Such a child... Unfazed, Jing Ao Xue firmly held Liu Er’s hand, leading her out. “Wife, let’s go home.” Shen Lu Man, entertained by her childish antics, bid farewell to everyone alongside Qin Yishu’s group. As they reached the door, Wushuang reluctantly released her grip on Liu Er, waving tearfully, “I’ll wait for your return, Sister Liu Er—until the mountains crumble, the rivers run dry, winter thunder rumbles, summer snows fall, when heaven and earth unite, only then with you I’ll part.” The adults laughed heartily, and Jing Ao Xue, half-annoyed, half-amused, muttered, “This little drama queen!” Waving back, Liu Er responded, “Goodbye, Wushuang!” Wushuang blew a kiss before going back inside, a little forlorn. Turning to Qin Yishu, Gu Baiwei suggested with amusement, "Wushuang loves Liu Er so much; maybe we should arrange a betrothal for them?" Intrigued yet hesitant, Qin Yishu glanced at Wushuang—now smiling brightly at some new distraction—and shook her head with a sigh, “Let’s wait. I fear Wushuang’s fickleness; she may…” Nodding, Gu Baiwei agreed. With their youth, there was no rush. Together, Jing Ao Xue’s family quickened their pace homeward, speaking animatedly like a gust of wind. Adept at cultivating, Liu Er’s progression reached the eighth level in Qi Refining, her excellent spiritual roots and talent allowing rapid progress toward the ninth. In the absence of outsiders, she reverted to typical childishness, hooking pinkies with Shen Lu Man and Jing Ao Xue, sincerely declaring, “Master said I can graduate, so I’ll focus on cultivating with you both.” Jing Ao Xue, uncertain of what Liu Er learned, had initially endorsed her tutelage under Qin Yishu and Shen Taihua to broaden her horizons. Now, hearing Liu Er, she replied, “Alright, let’s rest a day and head to the mountains the next.” Liu Er nodded happily. As they approached home, a young woman in white appeared suddenly, smiling. “You’re back.” Startled, Jing Ao Xue noted her distinguished features, surrounded by a faint aura. Alarmed, she shielded Shen Lu Man and Liu Er, asking sternly, “Who are you?” The woman didn’t answer but looked warmly at Liu Er, who hesitated, “Are you… Xiao Bai?”