Qing Luan did not refuse and took the contract brought by Hu Lingyun, leading them back home.
The young man was an orphan raised by Hu Lingyun, named A-Song. The old woman, known as Plain Grandmother, had never married and lived alone, so her only request was for Qing Luan to take care of her in her old age. Both of them had no other ties, which made Qing Luan quite satisfied.
The house they bought originally had four rooms. Qin'er, Tide, and Qing Luan shared one room, while Erwa had another to himself. Now A-Song and Plain Grandmother each had their own room, which was just right. Since Erwa's name sounded like a nickname, Qing Luan thought for a moment and decided to rename him Zhao Yun.
With the profits from the first day being quite considerable, Qing Luan went to Old Ma's house and told him that from now on, all the fresh fish he caught would be sold to him. He also asked Aunt Ma to come help at his home for five wen a day. This amount was like a windfall for a woman, leaving her so surprised she hardly knew what to say before happily agreeing.
While this business was taking off, they did not neglect their physical training. With Aunt Ma's arrival and Plain Grandmother's assistance, things became much easier. With A-Song around, Qing Luan had him teach both himself and Zhao Yun martial arts. As for Tide and Qin'er, who showed no interest, there was no need to force it.
Since Plain Grandmother's contract was in her own hands, she wasn't afraid of being betrayed by her. Thus, she taught her what she knew, making things easier for herself as well. The Hu Family Tavern became exceptionally lively due to Qing Luan's new dishes, which also attracted some trouble—trouble that came directly for Qing Luan rather than Hu Lingyun.
At the dock, another bountiful day had arrived. Old Ma entered the port early with a joyful expression on his face that made him look much younger.
"Uncle Ma!" Zhao Yun waved his hand and shouted excitedly as he rushed forward.
"Zhao Yun, slow down," Qing Luan called out carefully while dodging those moving fish behind him, but the boy had already dashed ahead. After practicing basic skills with A-Song for a month and enjoying balanced meals, Zhao Yun's health had improved significantly. The simple life also brought a healthy smile to his face, which pleased Qing Luan greatly.
"Are you looking for death!?" Suddenly, a harsh voice rang out, startling Qing Luan for a moment before he quickened his pace. "You little star of misfortune dare to bump into me…" A young man dressed in crimson checkered silk angrily cursed as he grabbed Zhao Yun by the collar with an expression that seemed ready to devour him.
"This young master, the child doesn't know any better; please show some mercy and don't hold it against him," Old Ma said as soon as he saw Zhao Yun being grabbed. He rushed forward without caring about the fish he was holding and humbly advised.
"You poor wretch dare to meddle in my affairs," the young master did not relent at Old Ma's words; instead, he kicked Old Ma disdainfully. Seeing all eyes on him only made him prouder.
"Who is he?" Qing Luan asked a fishmonger she recognized, standing nearby.
"Oh, him," the weathered face of the man showed disdain. "He's the only son of the Boss of Prosperity Restaurant. He comes here every few days to buy fish, and each time he makes a fuss, leaving everyone confused. Sigh, that poor child!" There was a hint of sympathy and concern in his voice.
"I didn't bump into you!" Zhao Yun struggled desperately. Though he was slender, he ran every day with Qing Luan and had practiced horse stance with A-Song for a month, giving him quite good physical conditioning and strength. Thus, the seemingly imposing young master quickly found it hard to hold onto him. "You reached out to stop me and falsely accused me!"
Having freed himself from the man's grip, Zhao Yun stepped back two paces, shouting with eyes full of anger and grievance.
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