Menstruation

  Su's wine shop is now open for business.

  The location of Lianyi's shop is excellent, at a big corner on the bustling street intersection.

  The two intersecting roads are very wide, so the central area of the intersection is quite spacious. Today, a large stage has been set up in the empty space in the center, and someone has invited a troupe to perform an opera, which passersby can watch for free.

  This troupe was naturally invited by Su Liangwei.

  Businesses want to start their business on a lucky and lively note, so modern businesses will set off firecrackers and fireworks on the day of opening. Larger businesses may even invite several singers to perform and create a festive atmosphere, which can also attract passersby and create momentum.

  Although this behavior is not unusual in modern times, it was absolutely a pioneering move in ancient times.

  The life of ancient people was dull with little entertainment. Watching a theater troupe perform was like going to the cinema to watch a Hollywood blockbuster today.

  Almost half of the county's people came, surrounding the intersection where ten horse-drawn carriages could pass through at the same time, watching the show with relish.

  Su Lianwei didn't invite them to watch for nothing, and on the table, four banners were hung in all directions - Su Family Wine, pure and authentic taste! Su Family Medicinal Wine, strengthening the body and nourishing health!

  The same sentence was written on all four banners so that people watching from different corners could see the content of the banner.

  When customizing the propaganda language, Chu Ying also helped write a poem, which was easy to recite, but Su Liangyu deliberated for a long time and finally didn't use it. The reason is simple: she faced the vast number of ordinary people, and she couldn't guarantee that all the people were literate. Even if they were literate, she couldn't guarantee their literary attainments. If it was written too deeply, they wouldn't understand it, and it would not have any propaganda effect.

  On the contrary, such straightforward words can be quickly understood and remembered by the people.

  The gate of the Su Family Wine Shop had a strip of cloth hanging down from the roof, with words written on it: "Li's Mansion Li Old Master has been fond of drinking for 17 years; Su Family Medicinal Wine can relieve wind evil symptoms; Su Family Wine Industry old brand founded 50th anniversary, to repay the people, first price reduction; arm pain leg acid, come have a bowl of Su Family Medicinal Wine!

  Su Jia wine shop is different from the ordinary wine shops, the whole house is light-colored, and it feels bright as soon as you enter. There is a faint scent of wine, with enthusiastic waiters greeting and introducing, but no free drinks are offered.

  On the wall on one side of the entrance, there is a portrait of Mr. Li, which is very high, very large and very eye-catching, vividly lifelike, with bold and striking characters written above it - "Mr. Li's beloved".

  Many people, tired from watching the play, would drop by the wine shop to pick up a jug of wine and give it a try. Although this Su family wine was indeed more expensive than ordinary wine, what kind of wine did Mr. Li drink? That's good wine! The extra cost seemed justified.

  If it's said that on this day, there is someone in Yuewang County who doesn't know that the Su Family Wine Shop has opened for business, then they are truly out of touch with the times. Even if they didn't come to see the commotion, the Su Family Wine Shop burst forth like a thunderclap.

  Lian Yu temporarily hired a few quick-witted and sweet-tongued temporary waiters to entertain the guests. Su Hao, who was not good at speaking, was also pushed to the front desk, busily greeting everyone, while Lian Yu herself was watching from the second-floor window.

  There are two reasons why she didn't go downstairs. Firstly, in the country of Luan, men were superior to women, and although women could show their faces, it was rare for them to do business openly among men. She had no interest in making a name for herself in business, and what she did now was just to live comfortably in this strange world.

  Secondly, Su Hao's personality is originally introverted. If he isn't forced to exercise, he'll become even more introverted. She can help him for a while, but not forever. She also has her own life and winery, ultimately it still belongs to Su Hao.

  At this moment, officials and soldiers from the government office cleared the way, and two luxurious sedan chairs were carried over by the bearers. The sedan chairs landed, the curtains were lifted, and two men in luxurious attire got out, one fat and one thin. The thin one was none other than Li Fu'an, the old master of the Li family.

  Lianyi saw this and hurried down the stairs quickly, personally welcoming and receiving them.

  "Mr. Li, thank you for taking the time to come and support us amidst your busy schedule, it really makes our humble shop shine. Today's Lian Yi, wearing a peach-red dress, is a departure from her usual calm and cool tone, setting off her fair and delicate face like a peach blossom."

  Li Fu'an smiled warmly, "Lian Wei's tongue has become much sweeter, but the one who made Su Jia Sheng Hui today is not me, but this person." As he spoke, he stepped aside and let the slightly plump man enter.

  Lianyi didn't know this person, but seeing his dignified appearance, refined clothing and the hint of majesty in his demeanor, coupled with being highly esteemed by Old Master Li, he should be an important figure. Suddenly recalling the officials from the government office who had just cleared the way, he already guessed who the other person was.

  "My humble home has had the pleasure of meeting this esteemed gentleman," said Su Lian, bowing respectfully. "This gentleman's forehead is full and his face radiates good fortune, with a bright aura surrounding him; one glance tells us that he is a man of great importance. Unfortunately, I am but an ignorant woman who has not seen much of the world, so please forgive me, sir."

  That old gentleman has heard many flattering words, but for some reason, he was infatuated by this young woman in front of him. If someone else had said these words, they would have given the impression of trying to curry favor, but this woman spoke with neither arrogance nor humility, only sincerity.

  Mr. Li's eyes were full of praise, "Lianyi really has a good eye for people, this gentleman is our County Magistrate Wu from Yuewang County."

  Li Lao Ye really meant it, actually inviting County Magistrate Wu to come and give her a boost. In modern times, this would be equivalent to the mayor. What family's opening can invite the mayor? Great joy. "It turned out to be Lord Wu, I'm truly sorry, I've lost face so badly that our parents in Yue Wang County don't even recognize you, making you laugh."

  His name is Wu Chang'an, an official who loves to show off. He hates it when others say they don't know him and wishes that everyone in the world would recognize his name and remember his appearance.

  "It doesn't matter, haha."

  In the shop, people who came to buy wine were surprised to see County Magistrate Su arrive, and they all looked at each other in surprise. It seems that this Su family wine is indeed good, as so many big shots have come to support it.

  People like Li Lao Ye and Wu Xian Ling, who are influential in Yue Wang County, how can they be allowed to squeeze on the first floor? So he invited them to the second floor and treated them with good tea.

  The decoration upstairs is also refreshing and elegant, two people sit down, Lianyi personally comes forward to pour tea.

  "It's like this, one time when I was drinking with Wu Daren, I heard him say that he also had a wind evil disease, so today I came along with Wu Daren to buy some medicinal wine to take back." said Li Lao Ye.

  "Director Wu toils for the people and has fallen ill with this disease. As a citizen, how can we ask Director Wu for money?" Liang Wei smiled and said, "Later, I had someone send two jars to Director's mansion to show respect, okay?" She was worried that she didn't have any official background, but now, here comes an opportunity for her to bribe him.

  Two people came and went, but Wu Chang'an was deep in thought.

  Just as he entered the wine shop, he noticed a large portrait of Liu Fu'an on the wall. In the future, this Su family wine shop would be bustling with people coming and going, and the portrait would be hung on the wall, what a magnificent sight, what a showy display.

  Wu Chang'an secretly hoped that the portrait was of him, not Li Fu-an. He felt anxious in his heart but couldn't say it out loud, as that would be beneath the dignity of a government official. Anxious, anxious, so anxious!

  Lianyi caught a glimpse of County Magistrate Wu's unpleasant expression with her peripheral vision and was puzzled. Since the magistrate didn't speak, she could only find a topic to break the silence and save herself from embarrassment. "Thank you, Mr. Li, for helping me choose this shop. If my shop can open, it's all thanks to your efforts." What's wrong with this county magistrate? Is he trying to be rude?

  Ripples politely on the surface while secretly pondering in her heart.

  "Hehe, no need to be polite. Lianyi's got a lot of clever ideas, but... " Li Fu'an's old face turned slightly red, "Lianyi, can you take down that portrait downstairs?"

  "How can that be? You promised to be the image spokesperson for our Su family wine." said Liang Wei.

  "Spokesperson?" Mr. Li shouted in surprise, if he had known that this "spokesperson" would be so showy, he wouldn't have agreed.

  Although Lianyi was talking to Li Laoye, her attention was actually focused on Wu County Magistrate. She found that when she mentioned the portrait, Wu County Magistrate's face turned even more unpleasant, with a hint of redness and urgency.

  It couldn't be... Lian Yi made a bold guess - could it be that Wu County Magistrate thought the portrait was of Li Laoye and not him as the parent official, picking a quarrel?

  She was afraid in her heart, and she mustn't be given a hard time because of this.

  "Alas, I'm an old man with nothing to show for it. Otherwise, why not replace the portrait with a more elegant and refined gentleman?" Old Master Li really didn't want to be this "image ambassador."

  Her eyes sparkled as she smiled, "Of course not, our Su family wine also has a rich history, how can that young whippersnapper suppress the town? This image ambassador, only you... or someone like Lord Wu with high moral character would be suitable." After finishing speaking, she stole a glance at Magistrate Wu.

  As expected, Wu County Magistrate's anxious expression was palpable, and in his heart he shouted - Li Fu'an is unwilling, let me come then!

  Ripples in his heart had a number, the corners of his mouth hooked up a gentle smile.

  "Lord Wu, you are a man of great stature and broad-mindedness. You are a minister who can hold his own in the imperial court. Will you grant the humble request of this commoner's daughter? The two jars of wine are not for sale, but rather a token of respect from me to you."

  The county magistrate had a thousand flowers blooming in his heart, and he couldn't get enough of the beauty. But while it was beautiful in his heart, he still had to maintain his dignity on his face. "I've heard that Miss Su has a relationship with Old Master Li, and this official is also an old friend of Old Master Li's. As a senior, I'm willing to help you with this matter." In his heart, he was delighted, "But as for the wine money, this official still needs to give it. This official will first contribute ten jars, which will be sent to relatives later."

  Su Lianyi almost burst out laughing, but kept a calm smile on her face. "In the past, I didn't know much about you, Lord Wu, but now I really understand. You are indeed an honest and good official. We, the people of Yuewang County, are truly fortunate to have met such a good official as you."

  Ancient times were really good, image spokespersons didn't charge fees and even gave money, what a profit!

  Magistrate Wu was delighted and enthusiastically introduced the painters, saying which family's painter had good skills and which family's painter charged low fees. Lianyi smiled and flattered him, making Magistrate Wu feel proud and pleased.

  Mr. Li sat by, sipping his tea and observing Su Lianwei's carefree laughter, but couldn't help thinking of a certain woman in his heart.

  ……

  A busy day has passed, the blowing and singing have finally come to an end, the theater troupe is dismantling the temporary stage, the guests coming and going downstairs have also decreased, and the noise that lasted for a whole day has finally subsided.

  On this day, more than half of them do not appear in the bright place, secretly observing the customers who come and go, what age group of customers like to buy wine, how much they buy at one time, how they dress, how they talk, judging their family background through their clothes.

  The sun is westward, Sujiayejupu has finished its first day of business.

  Su Hao said more words in this life than ever before, at first very shy, but as the guests grew more and more, he couldn't care about being shy anymore, loudly calling out to the guests. A day of shouting left his throat hoarse, but his heart felt open and relieved.

  "Brother, you always said you're not suitable for doing business, but now it seems like you're quite good at being a boss." Lianyi smiled and came out from behind the counter, jokingly.

  Su Hao smiled shyly, "Where, isn't this too busy... Besides, don't mention that I'm the boss, you are..."

  "Brother, don't talk nonsense, the only boss of the Su family winery is you, Su Hao." Lingling retorted. This brother was a good man, working hard without complaint, using his earnings to support his family, and yet he had to put up with such a terrible wife. No one pitied him, but as his sister, she did.

  "Lianyi, I... " Su Hao was deeply moved, a little choked with emotion, "Having you as my sister is truly the blessing of a lifetime."

  "Brother, you're not only good at doing business and entertaining guests, but also sweet talk!"

  "This isn't sweet talk, ripples." Su Hao grew anxious.

  "I know," Lianyi smiled and said, "Brother, you've been working hard all day, and at night you still have to watch the store. I feel a bit guilty."

  The store has just opened and hasn't hired the right people yet, suitable partners need to be slowly encountered and cultivated, and can't be rushed. Before that, only Su Hao and Lian Yi can take turns on duty.

  Lianyi is a woman, so it's not suitable, there's only Su Hao left.

  "Don't say that, I actually like sleeping in the store," Su Hao's face showed a hint of helplessness, "It's quiet."

  Lianyi saw this and didn't say anything. She could guess the troubles in her brother's heart, probably because of that exceptional sister-in-law, Jiang Shi.

  It was a good start, selling a large quantity of Su Family Wine and 22 jars of medicinal wine, including 10 jars for Wu County Magistrate, 10 jars for Old Master Li, and 2 jars for individual customers.

  The price? Of course, it's not as expensive as before. The previous sky-high price was Su Lianwei's revenge against Li Yutang. Now that she's not seeking revenge, Lianwei won't be a black-hearted merchant anymore.

  Ordinary Shujia wine is one or two liters per tank, and medicinal wine is five liters per tank.

  "Brother, I'll go back with Uncle Ma's car. You be careful tonight and sleep early." Lingling reminded him.

  "Li Wei, otherwise you can move into the county to live too." Su Hao said. "Brother will buy a yard for you."

  Lianyi smiled and shook her head, "Thanks, brother. Let's talk about it later." She then left through the back door and got on Lao Ma Tou's new donkey cart.

  Because the cargo volume increased, Liang Wei replaced Lao Ma Tou's old donkey cart with a sturdy and durable new one, while the original old donkey cart was given to a newly hired person. This made Lao Ma Tou extremely happy, and Liang Wei thought that this horse uncle was really an easy-to-please person, getting so excited over just a donkey cart; if it were a horse-drawn carriage instead, who knows how good it would be?

  Lao Ma Tou sent Lian Wei back home and then hurriedly drove his donkey cart back home.

  Lianyi pushed open the courtyard door and saw a big tiger.

  Dahu still focuses on farming, and only helps out at the winery when they're short-staffed. Most of the time, he's still in the village. Liangliang knows that Dahu isn't an ordinary farmer, having a mysterious mission to fulfill, so she lets him be.

  "How did you get back?" Da Hu was slightly surprised.

  "Ripples raised an eyebrow, 'This is my home, why can't I come back?'"

  "I thought you would stay in the county," answered Da Hu.

  Ancient people and modern people are the same, all yearning for cities, wanting to become city dwellers. County towns were considered cities, while Sujiacun was rural.

  The Su family's winery developed into the city, and Da Hu thought that Su Liangwei would never come back again.

  Actually, for Lianyi, it's all the same wherever she is. But she prefers Suzhai Village, it's quiet and gives her a sense of security. "Have you eaten?" She countered with a question instead of answering.

  "No, just got back." His hair was dripping wet, obviously he had just taken a bath.

  Ripples washed hands into the kitchen, driving lightly and skillfully.

  Half an hour later, a sumptuous dinner was brought to the table.

  Although Da Hu didn't say anything, he couldn't help but feel surprised in his heart. Su Liangyu was indeed different from others. She could heal illnesses, brew wine, and the Su family's wine shop in the county town relied on her support. The relationship with the Li family also depended on her maintenance. In front of people, she was radiant yet low-key, but behind their backs, she was willing to wash dishes and cook meals.

  If he hadn't seen it with his own eyes, he really wouldn't have believed that there could be such a woman in this world.

  The woman is now sitting in front of him.

  "Tired?" Ben silently ate his meal, but suddenly couldn't help asking.

  "A bit." Lian Yu nodded while chewing on her vegetables.

  "......Eat some more." Da Hu said.

  "En." Lian Wei nodded again and picked up another piece of food with her chopsticks, chewing.

  It's sweltering in the middle of summer with no wind, probably going to rain.

  For the whole day, Lianyi's sweat had not dried off, after having dinner, she was sweating again. Just when she wanted to boil water for a bath, she saw Dahu in his refreshing appearance and suddenly had an idea. "Dahu, can I ask you for a favor?"

  "Alright." Datou agreed readily, seeing her daily toil and feeling a bit heartbroken for her. If it didn't conflict with their mission, he was more than willing to help her out in any way he could.

  "Take me to Xian Shui Tan, I want to take a bath too." Su Lianhuan got excited thinking of the icy water, her body covered in sweat.

  "No way, it's too cold."

  "It's summer now, never mind." said Lianyi.

  "It's no good."

  "...When did this big tiger become a housekeeper?" Ripples tangled, "Then you go wash, why not let me go?"

  I am a man.

  "I...I'm fine, I have a good physique, besides men and women are equal!" As soon as she finished speaking, she felt that it wasn't right. Men and women being equal was not truly achieved even in modern times, so shouting this slogan in ancient times would make people suspect that she had a screw loose.

  The big tiger didn't catch her illness, and for the first time, she changed from being taciturn to explaining in an unusual way, "Have you forgotten? Last time you jumped into the Immortal Water Pool, and then you fell ill."

  "I... " A slip of the foot may cause a thousand years of regret, and I was actually caught off guard. "The situation is different, that time it was because I didn't sleep all night, my body's resistance was weak. Now my physique is very good, nothing to worry about, please don't worry." Liang Liang softened her voice, with a slightly coquettish tone.

  Dà Hǔ's thick eyebrows moved slightly, and he couldn't help but admit that his heart had softened a bit. This summer day was indeed unbearable, especially since it had been windless all day, so it would probably rain at night. "I'll help you prepare the bath water."

  "I'm not too lazy to prepare bath water, I want to go to Xian Shui Tan, the water is cool and comfortable," Liang Wei said with some petulance, "You don't have to accompany me, I'll go by myself." She then ran off to fetch clean clothes and towels.

  "Are you really going?" Seeing her hugging clothes, she was about to push the courtyard door as soon as she left the room. Da Hu hurriedly rushed over to stop her.

  "Is there still fake?" Ling asked, giving him a white eye.

  At night, Su Lian's calm and intelligent demeanor during the day was gone, and she was now fully engaged in a heated argument with Da Hu. Unbeknownst to her, her appearance looked adorable to outsiders.

  The big tiger helplessly let out a long sigh and said, "I'll accompany you."

  Ripples chuckled, a victorious smile. "This is what good comrades are like." As he spoke, he reached out and patted his chest, the well-defined muscles making Ripples secretly click his tongue in admiration. This guy would have made a great celebrity model if he were living in modern times, unfortunately, his face wasn't as fortunate.

  I had promised Da Hu to fix his face, but I've been busy and couldn't find the time. Lian Yi secretly vowed that once this period of busyness was over, she would definitely go and fix Da Hu's face.

  As they left the yard and turned back to lock the gate, Chun Yue came bouncing along with her belly sticking out.

  "Ripples, Big Tiger, what are you going to do?" Chu Yue asked with a smile.

  Su Lianwei felt a little guilty, "Sorry, Chu Yue, I won't be able to accompany you tonight, I'm going to Xianshui Pool for a bath."

  Chu Ying heard this and was delighted, "I want to go too."

  "No, you're pregnant and afraid of catching a cold. You can't take that cold shower." Regarding Chu Ying's natural foolishness, Lian Yi was speechless, not having the slightest maternal stability. She was now very curious whether Chu Ying's deceased husband was abnormal, looking at Chu Ying and the child, and could still bear to do conjugal things.

  "Oh, I see... " Chu Yue was a bit disappointed, but still wanted to follow and have fun, "Then I won't wash, can I accompany you?" Big eyes shining with pleading.

  "This... " Lingling couldn't bear to refuse, but was afraid of the dark and steep road, and accidentally falling down like a firefly.

  At first glance, a big tiger was standing silently beside her. Suddenly, "Lianyi, you must take me with you, I have to help you keep an eye on him, otherwise he will peek!" A small hand pointed at the big tiger.

  "I didn't!" Big Tiger was anxious, how did it get on his head, injustice!

  Tears of joy and sorrow, nominally, she and Da Hu were husband and wife, not afraid to look. But in fact, she... was indeed afraid that Da Hu would sneak a peek.

  Although Da Hu had never shown any lecherous behavior before, he was after all a virile man, and now that it was late at night and she was naked in the water...he couldn't help but be on his guard.

  "Alright, but you have to promise me, be careful when going up and down the mountain, hold my hand." Lingwei said.

  "Alright, hehe, definitely." After saying that, she secretly gave Da Hu a apologetic glance - sorry for using you as a scapegoat.

  The big tiger ignored her and turned its head away.

  Going up the mountain was very smooth.

  The Xian Waterfall is beautiful at night, with a bright moon reflected in the calm pool water. Perhaps due to the presence of water, even by the side of the pool, you can feel the cool breeze.

  Lianyi was afraid that Chu Ying would accidentally fall into the water pool, so she set a range of activities for her. If she approached within one foot of the water pool, Lianyi would get angry.

  The firefly was afraid of the ripples, so she carefully sat on a large stone one foot away from the water pool, propped up her small chin with both hands, and stared at it eagerly.

  The big tiger is not here, but it's also not far away. Afraid that something unexpected might happen to them, on the mountain slope below, they flatten the plants on the ground and lie flat on top of them, admiring the bright moon through the intersecting tree branches.

  "Wow, what a great figure!" Xuan Yu suddenly shouted.

  The big tiger frowned.

  Lian Wei's face turned bright red, "Don't shout, what's there to shout about?" She was truly speechless. Although she was afraid of being seen by Da Hu, being stared at by a woman like this was also uncomfortable, and she didn't know how to retort. "You and I are both women, what I have, you don't? What's there to be surprised about?"

  "Of course it's not the same, Lingling's bust is bigger than mine, her waist is thinner than mine, and her legs are longer. Wow, Lingling's skin is so good, white and tender, I really want to touch it."

  "... Su Lianyi was on the verge of tears, but she wasn't afraid of Li Yutang or Old Master Li. She wasn't afraid of anyone, except for this little sprout of a young lady, "You can look all you want, but don't even think about coming over here."

  "Oh, don't worry, I've always been obedient." Chu Yue made a cute gesture and nodded.

  Ripples fell into the pool.

  The big tiger suddenly felt a little embarrassed, his left chest thumping inexplicably. He forced himself to calm down and continued to admire the moon since he couldn't leave.

  "Ripples' hair is so beautiful, so dense, floating on the water and yet so soft, black silk skin, faintly visible, I suddenly thought of a poem." Chu Ying said.

  Lianyi was filled with regret, perhaps she should have listened to Dahu's words and not come to bathe. If she hadn't bathed, Chuying wouldn't have followed her, then Chuying wouldn't have seen her body, and even more so, wouldn't have spoken nonsense. What's even more frustrating was that now she was naked in the water, while Chuying on the shore had no way to deal with her.

  Forget it, she agreed and was willing to speak up, so she quickly washed up and hurried down the mountain.

  Da Hu's mind was in a mess, with the image of Lian Yu's smiling face constantly flashing before his eyes, and occasionally he would hear the faint sound of Chu Ying's words, inexplicably feeling dry mouth and tongue, and an inexplicable heartbeat, the calm flowing blood was slightly turbulent.

  He had just raised his hand to cover his ear when he heard the soft and sweet voice of Chu Ying rising up.

  "A pair of bright moons on the chest, purple grapes and green jade balls; husband's silk handkerchief under the window, golden stem with a few dew drops hanging."

  "Huang Chu Ying!" Lian Yi finally couldn't bear it anymore, and slapped the water surface heavily, making a loud noise. "If you continue like this, I'll get angry! A good girl like you reciting such obscene poems, what kind of behavior is that? Is your extensive knowledge just for reciting these?"

  The big tiger's hand, which was about to cover his ears, froze in place. Suddenly, he felt his blood boiling and a stinging sensation below, followed by a nosebleed. He reached up to touch it and found that it was bleeding!

  "Oh, I know, I was wrong." Chu Yue pouted, "Can't I just not say it again? Lian Yi, don't be angry anymore."

  Actually, it's not anger, just a bit of embarrassment. Su Lianwei is a modern person, no matter how old-fashioned she may seem, and she has also been exposed to erotic and island country action film culture, but hearing is one thing, seeing is another, don't ever use this to describe her.

  On the shore, wiping his body, he saw Chun Yue beside him, not making a sound. Liang Yi was worried that he might have said something wrong. "Chun Yue, are you angry?"

  Chu Ying looked up at her with a wronged expression in her big eyes, "No, it was Chu Ying who misspoke."

  Lianyi put on the clean clothes brought over, and couldn't help but laugh. "You're a girl, how can you say those things? I've heard them before, but if outsiders hear them, they'll think your behavior is improper, and it will be embarrassing for you." As she spoke, she neatly folded the dirty clothes and held them in her arms.

  "Got it." Chu Yue wasn't oblivious either. She had also secretly watched with curiosity, hiding from her family back then.

  "Where is Big Tiger?" Lianyi looked around, but couldn't see Big Tiger's figure. Has this guy gone down the mountain?

  After a while, Da Hu's voice came out. "Done washing?"

  "Alright, I've finished washing. Where are you? Let's head down the mountain." Lianyi felt a sense of wonder, no wonder Dahu went up the mountain to bathe every day, it was truly comfortable. The icy pool water swept away the summer heat, leaving his body cool and refreshed, with only a hint of warmth in the air.

  But... just now Dahu's voice was strange, it felt different from usual, yet couldn't quite put a finger on what was off about it.

  The big tiger went up the mountain from the slope below, "Let's go."

  "Good." Lianyi held her clothes with one hand and tightly grasped Chunxu's small hand with the other, as the three of them headed down the mountain.

  The big tiger is in front, the firefly is in the middle, and the ripple is at the end.

  From start to finish, Da Hu never turned around, always giving Lian Yi his back, so Lian Yi naturally didn't notice the bloodstain on Da Hu's chest.

  ……

  Another place.

  The study of Governor Li's mansion.

  The maid brought in the diluted Su family medicinal wine with respect, gently placed it on one corner of the table, then quietly curtsied and retreated.

  Li Fu'an was browsing through a stack of account books as tall as a small hill, and the maid's coming and going didn't distract him in the slightest.

  The maid withdrew, and the housekeeper entered, seeing the old master busy, she didn't make a sound, silently standing by his side.

  Li Fu'an put down the account book, reached out and took over the medicinal wine, "Daquan, speak." He slowly drank it.

  Now he has recovered more than half, except for drinking Lingui and Zhou Dafu's latest prescription to consolidate his condition on time, he can also drink some fragrant wine.

  "Yes, as Master predicted, Second Young Master secretly set up a winery. In the past few days, he found a workshop and spent a high price to poach a brewmaster from Yun Tai Winery and another brewmaster from Xian Zui Winery. He also hired many experienced brewers, intending to suppress Su Family Wine in the wine industry." Qu Kang reported clearly.

  Li Fu'an suddenly became cheerful, his eyebrows raised, "Good, interesting." Today's Su family wine is truly fragrant and sweet.

  Quan Kang was delighted, "Still, Master is wise. If he had really lectured Young Master, I'm afraid Young Master wouldn't have listened. Now that he's allowed Young Master to start from scratch, he can better understand the true meaning of business and the difficulties of buying and selling."

  Quan Kang had been following Li Fu'an since he was a child, loyal and unwavering. This kind of talk, except for Quan Kang, no one else in the entire Li household dared to say.

  Li Fu'an was overjoyed, and he didn't know if it was because his body had been feeling great lately, or if it was because he was in high spirits after encountering good fortune. As he sipped on some wine, he beamed with joy. "My son has never been afraid of anything since he was a child, but Su Lianhuan is the first person he's ever feared. In the past, he was afraid of being entangled by her, but now he deliberately opposes her at every turn - it's quite amusing."

  Quan Kang smiled and replied, "Yes, at this time, the only one who can arouse Young Master's fighting spirit is probably only Lian Hui." As he spoke, he secretly worried in his heart. The young master had a natural talent for business, he feared... Lian Hui would suffer a loss.

  "You say, who can win?" Li Fu'an finished his medicinal wine, put down the wine bowl, and was eager with excitement.

  Quan Kang furrowed his brow and thought for a moment, "Master, do you want to hear the truth?"

  "It is, just listen to the truth." Li Fu'an said.

  Quan Kang sighed, "In my opinion, young master can win. Liang Wei is indeed clever, but doing business isn't just about brains, it requires a lot of experience. Young master has been following the old master on his travels since he was young, and has some understanding of various industries. During the period when the old master's body wasn't well, young master managed the Li family's industry with great success, how could he lose to a woman who has never done business?"

  Li Fu'an thought for a moment, "What you said is not unreasonable, but it's different from the past. Yutang is not managing his estate now, but starting from scratch. Have you forgotten his arrogant personality and the disadvantage of being impatient for quick success?"

  Quan Kang thought for a moment, "Even so, Xiao still thinks that Young Master can win."

  Li Fu'an burst out laughing, "How about we bet fifty taels of silver? I bet Lian-yi will win."

  "Why?" asked Quan Kang.

  "Instinct," replied Li Fu'an. Doing business is not just about hard work and ability, but also about instinct and luck. "Want to make a bet?"

  Quan Kang also came with enthusiasm, "Good, master, I've bet."

  Li Fu'an burst out laughing again, "A slap on the palm as a vow." He stood up. Quan Kang stepped forward, and the two of them slapped each other's palms, bursting into loud laughter.

  A moment later, "Master, you're just fine now, but you must take care of your body." Quan Kang said.

  Li Fu'an nodded and stood up, "Alright, go rest."

  "Little one sent you, where is Master going today?" Quan Kang came forward to help Li Fu'an up and accompanied him out of the study.

  Li Fu'an thought for a moment, "Let's go to Aunt Peach's place."

  "Yes." Quan Kangdao dispatched a small servant to hurry ahead and inform Taoniang to prepare.

  Two men walked along, and suddenly Mr. Li stopped. "Daquan."

  "Yes, sir."

  Li Fu'an hesitated for a long time, but in the end, he couldn't help himself and opened his mouth. "More than 20 years have passed, I also want to open up, don't want to escape anymore, go and ask about her for me." The joyful atmosphere was gone, leaving only desolation.

  Quan Kang nodded, "Yes, I know." More than 20 years have passed, but Master still can't let her go.

  Several maidservants carried lanterns and accompanied the two masters and servants as they proceeded, with no one speaking along the way.

  Haitang Courtyard

  It was late at night when Li Yutang finally returned, dusty and travel-worn.

  "Young master, you haven't had dinner yet." Mo Nong said.

  "First, prepare water for bathing." Li Yutang's voice was cheerful. Thinking that the hard work of the past few days would soon pay off and that Su Lianhui, who had been so arrogant today, would soon be defeated, he was extremely excited. Who still had the mind to eat?

  It's been a long time since I've done something so hands-on, actively planning, preparing and implementing for a specific purpose. This feeling has never been experienced before, now that I've tried it, I know how exhilarating it is!

  Taking off her white clothes, Li Yutang jumped into the bathtub filled with warm water, closed her eyes and leaned against the edge of the bathtub, unable to help but fantasize about the near future when she would squeeze Su Lianwei and Su Jiajiu out of the market, leaving them no room to stand!

  That Su Lian is really laughable, relying on that little cleverness to think they can achieve something big? Su Family Wine has indeed lowered its price, but it's not cheap either. The taste isn't very authentic, at most it has a unique flavor. What's the key to wine? It's quality! It's the taste!

  He is about to let her know that seeking popularity by any means is fundamentally wrong.

  He seemed to have seen Su Lianwei crying and begging for mercy, his expressionless face suddenly had a smile, his jade-like complexion was slightly red, his lips were crimson and moist, and he was extremely handsome.

  Na Su Lian's expression is always so indifferent, obviously a rascal but pretending to be elegant! Na Su Lian is always so cunning, a rogue should have the appearance of a rogue, who are you being cunning for?

  Li Yutang suddenly opened his eyes, furrowed his brow, because he suddenly remembered that day underwater, in the bubbles, a green figure swam around, disregarding his objections and "rescuing" him to the surface. After reaching the shore, the first thing he did was ask if he was injured.

  He couldn't see through her pretence, she seemed to have genuinely forgotten him, strange.

  Closed his eyes again, and the smile faded.

  If Su Lianhui really lost, maybe... he could let her go... maybe.

  ……

  Su Lianwei now knows, Da Hu is a jinx!

  Before going to Xian Shui Tan for a bath, Da Hu said she would get sick, she didn't believe it, but now...she really got sick. Although it's not a cold, it's also an illness that can make people...no, let women go through life and death, painful!

  Su Lian had thought about death many times, but she never had this problem in modern times. She had friends around her and could only show sympathy and condolences, but she never expected that one day this damn pain would come to her.

  She has been experiencing amenorrhea for two months due to rapid weight loss.

  If a woman loses more than 20 pounds in a month, she will likely experience temporary amenorrhea. This is because her body receives a danger signal that the living environment is harsh and survival is not guaranteed, making it unsuitable for pregnancy.

  This month may have stabilized weight, came menstruation, but caught a cold, painful menstruation!

  What's even worse is that she really doesn't know how to deal with this thing because there are no sanitary napkins!

  The door was pushed open and Lian Yu, pale-faced, leaned against the door frame, her voice hoarse as she called out to Da Hu who was about to leave.

  Dà Hǔ was taken aback and hurriedly ran back, "What's wrong with you? Are you ill?" He looked shocked.

  Lianyin shook her head in distress, "Help me... go... find Chuying..." Damn it, the pain was so severe that it started from the stomach and extended all the way down to the lower abdomen, a piercing ache accompanied by nausea and diarrhea.

  Dahyu agreed, despite not understanding why he had to find Chuyue. "Alright, you go rest on the bed," he said, quickly exiting the courtyard.

  Lianyi painfully climbed onto the bed, though she didn't know how to deal with it, but also put some towels underneath.

  Before long, Chu Yue hastily rushed over, "Lian Yi, what's wrong?" and burst into Lian Yi's room, with Da Hu following closely behind.

  Lian Yi was about to speak when she turned around and saw Da Hu, her face turning red. "Da Hu, you... go out."

  ...Big Tiger furrowed his brow in confusion and turned to leave.

  After seeing Da Hu leave, Lian Yi finally let out a sigh of relief. "Chu Yue, I've got my period."

  Xiao Ying blinked her eyes, "Menstruation?" Then suddenly realized, "You're talking about your period, right? Lian Yi has started her period?"

  Lianyi nodded, her face even paler, "That thing used for... you know, menstrual periods... what's it called? Do you have any?"

  "None, I haven't had a period since I got pregnant."

  "......" Ripples of helplessness, "Help me call Sun's wife, please."

  "Oh, I see." Chu Yue hastily turned around and went to call someone herself.

  It was teatime when Madame Wu arrived, bringing the thing Su Lianyi had been wanting - a red strip. This thing is called a "red strip" in Ruan country, meaning that when a woman's menstrual period arrives and she can become pregnant, it is a great joy. She taught Lianyi how to use it, boiled ginger water with a lot of brown sugar, and let Lianyi drink it.

  Outside the door, the big tiger sat on a chair, looking very worried.

  Wu asked in a low voice, "Did Lianyi catch a chill yesterday?" The blood clot didn't come out, so it was very painful.

  The big tiger nodded and told what happened yesterday.

  "Wu frowned and complained, 'Dahu, Dahu, women are most afraid of catching a chill. You let your wife catch a chill, it won't be easy to get pregnant later on. Do you still want a big fat son?'"

  Digression

  Thank you: Chu Ying (10 flowers) anaran (1 flower) tinalinda (1 flower) tamyatam (1 diamond) Qiao Yifei (18 diamonds) Tiramisu L (5 diamonds 10 flowers), thank you all, muah muah muah muah muah!

  Today's status is great, inspiration is abundant, and it was completed at 12 o'clock sharp. Finally, I can sleep in early, happy! Hehe! Seeking praise!