Chapter 006: Is Chang Xiucai determined to go against our Qian family?

Chang Xile was both delighted and astonished, as the entire Taoyuan Village had gathered! Hundreds, even thousands of people, were marching in a grand procession. No wonder Qian Jin, who had weathered many storms, was so frightened that his legs went weak. The entire Chang family was also present, led by the clan leaders of various surnames from the village and the village head, all brimming with a fierce determination, ready to engage in a significant endeavor.

Chang Xile laughed, "Is it that the Qian family is being overly oppressive, or is it that I, Chang, am being unreasonable? I have no desire to dwell on past matters, as I value my younger brother Qian Xin and am willing to break off the engagement to avoid delaying Miss Qian Si. Yet, your family not only fails to appreciate this but insists on pushing us to a dead end. You fail to discipline your son, allowing him to run away from home, and yet you blame me. Do you really think my silence is due to being easy to bully? Even if you can act with impunity in Daoxiang County, once you get entangled in a lawsuit, the losses you incur will far exceed what I, a penniless scholar, possess!"

In summary, the world framework is designed to serve the protagonist in their quest for wealth and success

Qian Xin has long mastered the art of evasion, jumping up and down without getting hit. "I wasn't kicked by a donkey; my brother-in-law was kicked by a horse while trying to save me. You must acknowledge this; it is a debt our Qian family owes to my brother-in-law"

In Taoyuan Village, a loud shout could be heard from afar, "Who has the audacity to cause trouble in our Taoyuan Village!"

Although the imperial examination system has existed since previous dynasties, its implementation in the current dynasty has encountered numerous difficulties. In particular, the relaxation of eligibility criteria has provoked significant opposition from many noble families, who fear that the rise of commoners through this avenue may threaten their power. The initial promotion of this system caused quite a stir, and it is only in recent years that the examination system has stabilized. The current sovereign places great importance on this matter, and anyone who dares to voice dissent will surely face severe punishment

Qian Jin has been dealt a painful blow, and is no longer as arrogant as before. If this matter truly escalates, the Qian family will suffer even more. The harsh words just now were merely a form of intimidation. It is often said that those without shoes are not afraid of those who wear them; if one truly lets go and acts recklessly, it could lead to trouble. Not to mention, his fourth daughter’s reputation will undoubtedly be tarnished. She is the most beautiful among his daughters, well-educated, and proficient in music, chess, calligraphy, and painting. He had hoped she would secure a good marriage and become a support for him. Most importantly, he is indeed in the wrong regarding this matter.

The original self did not have a profound impression of the magistrate of Daoxiang County, but often joyfully thought about how few officials in ancient times were not corrupt. Such a fat sheep delivered to one's door, even if not slaughtered, should still yield some benefits, so he deliberately spoke in this regard

Chang Xile saw that the money was coming in but could not keep up, so he waved for Qian Xin to stop, saying, "You should calm down a bit. Do you really want to make your father so angry that something bad happens?"

The village head directly interrupted him, saying, "You need not concern yourself with this matter. Since they have already come to bully our village, it is no longer just your issue but a matter that concerns all of Taoyuan Village. Our villagers cannot be bullied by outsiders. You have a gentle disposition and are still young; you should not get involved in such matters."

Qian Xin held his neck high and said, "Father, you are being confused again, repeating things that should not be said. It was you who used to whisper in my ear, urging me to build a good relationship with Fourth Brother-in-law. Now you deny it? How can you act like this? I am making it clear today: if you do not agree to let Chang Dage be my Fourth Brother-in-law, I will not go back. Even if you force me to return, I will find a way to escape!"

Although Chang Xile's path in scientific examination has been cut off, he was, after all, a renowned genius in his youth, with achievements to his name. The incident of his downfall has ruined his future, and the county magistrate has expressed his anger over it. After all, having a talented individual emerge during his administration would greatly benefit the magistrate's reputation and connections. Now that someone who was highly regarded has encountered trouble, how can one not be infuriated? Recently, the magistrate has been looking at the Qian family with disdain, and the Qian family has had to offer numerous favors in response. If Chang Xile truly decides to make a scene, even if the Qian family ultimately prevails, they will still suffer significant losses.

Moreover, these are not mere copies; they will also be adjusted according to needs. The borrowing is merely the most superficial form of reference. Each region is different, and Taoyuan Village belongs to an underdeveloped area

Qian Xin is displeased; just a moment ago, he assured Chang Xi Le, and now he is being contradicted by his own father

This is a significant matter concerning the future livelihood of Taoyuan Village. Chang Xile cannot afford to be careless and must not show weakness at such a critical time

Qian Xin completely ignores Qian Jin; he has been spoiled since childhood. Although his father is strict, he has a grandmother backing him, so he is not afraid at all

You little brat, stop right there! Just watch me not beat you to death today. You don't even realize how foolish you've been fooled. Just see if I don't knock some sense into you!

Chang Xile felt distressed despite his joy. Originally, after his threats, he could have smoothed things over with some soft words, allowing the matter to pass. Now, with such a commotion, it would only add to the trouble. However, regardless of the situation, these people were there to support him, not wanting him to suffer any losses. Therefore, he expressed his gratitude, saying: "Uncle, thank you for your kindness. I can handle this matter..."

Chang Xile sneered, "What does it have to do with me that your son came to me on his own? The people from the Ping'an Escort Agency can testify that it was your good son who hired them. I have been bedridden due to illness these days, how could I possibly abduct your good son? In fact, I was injured while trying to save your son, which also ended my path to the imperial examination. Not only did you not express gratitude, but you also turned against me. I haven't even had the chance to discuss this matter with you yet"

Qian Jin was so enraged that his hair stood on end. He grabbed a wooden stick at hand and was about to strike, saying, "You wretched child! What nonsense are you spouting! Just watch me not beat you to death today. Has a donkey kicked your brain? How could I have a son like you"

"Am I just talking nonsense, or are you in the wrong? We will know once we go to court. Do not forget, I am a scholar who can speak freely without punishment, while you are not in the same position. In any case, I am already in this situation, and I have nothing left to lose; if things escalate, it will not be my loss. Anyway, I have plenty of free time now, so I might as well come to your shop and scold you a bit. Perhaps, I can even gain the reputation of 'cursing the world' from this?" Chang Xile said with a shameless expression.

The Qian family was thrown into chaos due to Qian Xin's departure from home. Qian Jin was in the midst of a business discussion when he was summoned back by an elderly family member. Upon seeing the note in Qian Xin's room, Qian Jin was so furious that smoke seemed to rise from his head, and he overturned everything on the table. No matter how angry he was, his son was his lifeblood, and he had to find him no matter what. He couldn't even take the time to comfort his weeping mother and wife, and in a state of urgency, he led his associates straight to Taoyuan Village. Upon seeing Chang Xile, he was especially enraged; if it weren't for this person having led his foolish son astray, his son, though a bit unruly, would not have done such a thing.

Note: Although the settings in the text draw inspiration from various sources, they cannot be directly applied to any specific era. Over the course of five thousand years, I have selected elements from the Middle East and the West, which results in phenomena such as mismatches in economic development and systems, among others, that do not withstand scrutiny

Chang Xile mocked with a smile, "That is my benevolence, yet I did not expect you to be so shameless. Do you really think I cannot prove what happened at that time? There is no wall that does not let the wind through in this world, and no truth that cannot be uncovered. I have read the classics and hold a degree; you cannot tarnish my reputation. Do the people believe in me, a scholar, or in you, a merchant? I also wish to go to court and speak with the county magistrate about this; you harm students and still refuse to admit it. Are you feeling guilty like a thief? I have read the classics and hold a degree; you cannot tarnish my reputation. Do the people believe in me, a scholar, or in you, a merchant? I also wish to go to court and speak with the county magistrate about this; you harm students and still refuse to admit it. Is it not true that everything is not an accident, but rather your deliberate action? You are clearly part of the faction opposing the imperial examination, and you do this intentionally to humiliate me and ruin my future!"

For example: The tax system in this article should be situated around the mid-Tang dynasty according to ancient history, which corresponds to the period of the implementation of the Two Tax System. However, the imperial examination system is more aligned with the Song dynasty and even the Ming and Qing dynasties. The economy is roughly comparable to that of the Southern Song dynasty, the level of production tools is at the Tang dynasty level, and maritime navigation can reach the standards of the Ming dynasty, and so on

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Qian Jin, however, refuses to acknowledge it. "Don't think that by fooling my foolish son and making him speak carelessly, you can make unfounded connections. If that were the case, why didn't you speak up back then"

Qian Jin stepped forward, wanting to pull Qian Xin back, but Qian Xin jumped aside, shouting, "Dad, don't wrong my brother-in-law. I came over on my own. I have made it very clear in my letter. I do not want to be ungrateful and heartless. My brother-in-law saved me and got hurt; not only do you not repay him, but you also step on him. You are getting old and confused, but I cannot be ungrateful!"

With money at hand yet unwilling to show weakness, he squinted his eyes and threatened, "Is Chang Xiucai determined to go against the Qian family?"

Qian Jin now had the time to deal with the instigator. He turned to Chang Xile with a cold smile, "Despite your extensive knowledge of poetry and literature, you are indeed a malicious person, deliberately sowing discord between my father and me to achieve your own ends. I tell you, this matter is far from over! If you dare to lay a hand on my son, I will make sure that the entire Taoyuan Village suffers!"

How did Chang Xile suddenly become so sharp-minded after being kicked? At this moment, Qian Jin couldn't understand. The reason he dared to act this way before was that he relied on the fact that this foolish boy, Chang Xile, was willing to suffer in silence, which is why he deliberately distorted the facts and conveniently excluded the fourth daughter. But now, why has he become so aggressive and out of character? Although Chang Xile is intelligent, he is inexperienced in the ways of the world, having devoted all his efforts to studying. Now, he actually knows how to stand up for himself.

In this dynasty, the monopoly on salt is enforced, and the trade of private salt is illegal, while the Qian family holds the authority to sell official salt in Daoxiang County. Moreover, the Qian family is also responsible for collecting grain, cloth, and other goods, which are all channels for the villagers of Daoxiang Village to earn income

The village chief walked over and protected Chang Xile behind him, saying, "Xile, don't be afraid. Your Uncle Village Chief will stand up for you; no one can bully you!"

Qian Jin was infuriated by Qian Xin, feeling that he had rushed over out of concern for his life, only to hear such words. How could he feel any relief in his heart? He completely disregarded the fact that they were outside and was ready to fight. The rotund Qian Jin was no match for the agile Qian Xin, and after a short chase, he was already panting heavily.

This group of people either carried hoes or clutched wooden sticks, glaring fiercely at Qian Jin, making him feel weak in the knees. The companions who followed could not help but take a step back, while Qian Xin, who was tightly bound and unable to speak, had bright, shining eyes.

Qian Jin's expression changed dramatically, "Do not slander me! Do not think that just because you have studied for a few years, you can indiscriminately throw dirt on others!"

Thus, every mischievous child has a mischievous parent, and when something goes wrong, they always believe it is someone else's fault

Although he was not aware of the events outside his window, he was still informed about matters related to the imperial examination. He understood the significance of a scholar in Daoxiang County, which motivated him to study even harder, believing that this was the only path for a farmer's son to escape the mountains.

Qian Jin felt a tremor in his heart; it turned out that this young man had been feigning his previous dull demeanor, and he was quite knowledgeable about the affairs of the officialdom! With this turn of events, Qian Jin found himself at a disadvantage, unable to exert pressure through power. Although Chang Xile had neither power nor wealth, his status as a scholar was still significant. As Qian Jin pondered how to respond, a dense crowd approached him.

Qian Jin knew that it was impossible to reason with his son Qian Xin, and he was unwilling to air the family's dirty laundry in front of outsiders. Without further ado, he waved his hand and ordered his men to tie up Qian Xin. Qian Xin did not expect his father to be so ruthless this time. He wanted to struggle and curse, but after all, he was just a child and no match for the men. Not only was he tightly bound, but his mouth was also gagged with a handkerchief.

Qian Xin's eyes widened even more upon hearing this, but no matter how much he struggled, it was of no avail

Father, I have already told you that it has nothing to do with my brother-in-law

Qian Jin angrily rebuked, "Who is your brother-in-law! What nonsense are you calling? Are you still allowing your sister to be a person? And you say it’s not him who deceived you; if it weren’t for him, would you be able to call him that!"

The village chief strode up to Qian Jin and angrily rebuked, "Well, you, Qian Jin, I haven't yet settled the score with you for the grievances you caused Xi Le, and here you are today personally coming to stir up trouble for our entire Tao Yuan Village. Do you really think our Tao Yuan Village is a soft persimmon that can be squeezed at will"

Chang Xile frowned upon hearing this. Although Qian Jin was merely a merchant, he was a person of considerable influence in Daoxiang County. Not only was he on good terms with the county magistrate, but more importantly, if he were to speak out, it would become difficult for Taoyuan Village to conduct trade with the county in the future. To say nothing of other matters, just the control over salt would make it hard for Taoyuan Village to survive

Qian Jin pointed at Qian Xin, so enraged that he could not finish his words, "You, you ungrateful child!"

Chang Xile is both amusing and moving. Although it is clearly his matter, he cannot help but get involved. However, this commotion allows Chang Xile to witness the power of ancient clans firsthand. Regardless of any internal disputes, when facing outsiders, they unite as one. Even in remote and impoverished areas, as long as there are people with determination, outsiders are not allowed to act arrogantly on their territory; otherwise, they will be completely at the mercy of outsiders in the future. Farmers, lacking power and influence, exist at the bottom of the social hierarchy, and individuals are too insignificant. Only through unity can they instill fear in outsiders, preventing them from bullying at will; it is not merely a matter of pride. Even in remote and impoverished areas, as long as there are people with determination, outsiders are not allowed to act arrogantly on their territory; otherwise, they will be completely at the mercy of outsiders in the future. Farmers, lacking power and influence, exist at the bottom of the social hierarchy, and individuals are too insignificant. Only through unity can they instill fear in outsiders, preventing them from bullying at will; it is not merely a matter of pride.

Qian Jin, upon hearing this, not only did not appreciate the sentiment, but instead snorted coldly and said: "Don't try to play innocent here. Don't think I don't know that this is all your doing. My son is still so young; how could he commit such an act of defiance without someone teaching him? I tell you, this matter is not over. I will definitely go to the authorities and accuse you of abduction!"