Chapter 6, A Brief Calm

Anlong wore a sullen expression, yet ultimately did not voice any opposition. He understood very well that those with abilities are more capable of controlling their own destinies than ordinary people. Although this man had various shortcomings, he indeed possessed genuine skills.

Daughter Mina is currently learning simple sword techniques from her grandfather; meanwhile, Xiao Tianjian has gifted his daughter-in-law Dora with precious flower seeds he collected during his travels over the years, and he also helped her create a garden swing. For Winnie, who becomes excited at the sight of him, he patiently and meticulously taught her how to prepare more than ten delicious dishes, and he highly praised her ability to discern fine wines. Even the temporary maid, Brigitte, received a pair of beautiful silk bows from him as accessories for the May Day ball. If we disregard Marshall, who has been rarely seen lately due to poor spirits, almost the entire family has grown fond of him, including the nearby neighbors. It is said that several small taverns and bars in town have rated him as the most welcomed guest, and several local young ladies have been throwing flirtatious glances at him every day.

Dora insisted, "No, Mina will definitely break it and will also throw it around. Such valuable items should not be given to children to play with."

Winnie could not help but feel sorry for her: "Oh, my poor Miss Dora, you should have been the brightest jewel in Yidong City. If it weren't for marrying into the family, you wouldn't have to endure such days." Thinking of Anlong, she felt somewhat dissatisfied: "Although my father is remarkable, having such a mother, it's no wonder that the son-in-law lacks ambition."

Xiao Tianjian was left speechless and had no choice but to negotiate with Dora. However, Dora said: "The child is still too young to understand; how can such a valuable alchemical work be given to her as a toy? It is worth twenty gold coins, and her father's monthly salary is only thirty gold coins."

Xiao Tianjian was not concerned; he carefully guided his son's swordsmanship, not only correcting several mistakes but also teaching many advanced techniques. Anlong's swordsmanship level improved rapidly, and while he felt happy, he also developed a greater admiration for his father, who was highly skilled in martial arts. Besides occasionally making a sarcastic remark, he gradually began to take the initiative to converse with him.

The tranquil days passed one by one. Although the entire family was happily preparing for the upcoming May Festival, Anlong's worries showed no signs of abating. The confidential letter sent to his superior had yet to receive a response, and Veronica remained missing. What on earth had happened?

Mina felt a bit moved, but she said: "However, that box has been put away by my mother. If you give me something else, she will just put it away again, and I won't be able to play with it at all"

Xiao Tianjian was somewhat angry: "That was a gift from my friend, it didn't cost me a penny. I'm happy to give it to the child as a toy, is that not acceptable?"

Xiao Tianjian hurriedly stepped forward to check: "Are you hurt? This move is too difficult for you; you cannot learn it yet." Mingna got up from the ground, brushed off the dust from her clothes, and looked at her grandfather with an annoyed expression. Xiao Tianjian, looking troubled, could only say: "You really can't learn it. How about this, grandfather will buy you some delicious candy?"

Dora interrupted her, saying, "Stop talking!" She took one last look at the dress that emitted a faint glow and decisively closed the box lid, stating, "This is only temporary; one day, Anlong will succeed and take our whole family away from this wretched place!"

Mina agreed, shouting, "Grandpa Marshall, I want to eat small round cakes," as she quickly ran to the kitchen to find the old butler. Seeing him sitting by the counter in a daze, seemingly lacking energy, she asked, "Grandpa Marshall, are you sick?"

However, Mina felt quite frustrated. This is because her grandfather was now solely focused on teaching her father, hardly paying any attention to her, and it would take a long time before he would offer her any guidance.

Xiao Tianjian could not comprehend Marshall's intentions, but regardless, he had never regarded this person as a rival. However, it was evident that this individual had now become a part of the family, even to the extent of somewhat replacing his "grandfather" role, which made him feel somewhat uneasy.

Is that so? That is truly commendable! Should I be happy for them having escaped a calamity?

Xiao Tianjian was taken aback: "Why did your mother put things away?"

Anlong said lightly: "Dora has her reasons as well; you are being too indulgent towards Mina, and this is not beneficial for the child"

"Anlong, I know you dislike me..." Xiao Tianjian looked at him, "However, you are a smart child and know what is right. Do not let your personal feelings overshadow your reason." As long as this child accepted his help, he was confident he could reconcile with his son

Dora left contentedly, and Anlong watched her disappear outside the door, finally letting out a sigh of relief as he took out the half-written letter again

Now he knows that Mary has always been consistent towards him, but he finds it somewhat difficult to grasp Marshall's thoughts. With his father's status and the background of the Cardo family, Marshall could certainly have a better future; becoming a noble's chief steward is also a possibility. Why is he willing to stay by Anlong's side as a steward and male servant? He even has to cook personally

Xiao Tianjian looked at this scene, feeling an indescribable mix of emotions in his heart

Xiao Tianjian found it difficult to press further, so he could only smile and, after a moment's hesitation, asked: "Um... you want to train soldiers, right? I wonder... if I could be of any help? You know, I have some experience in this area..."

Dora let out a sigh: "That's great, it only takes half a day to ride back and forth. If I can return the gift he gave me early, I will feel at ease."

Xiao Tianjian https://m.hetushu.com: "It's not a big deal to indulge children a bit, especially since Mingna is not a bad child." Seeing his son's expression, he quickly shrank his neck and hurried away.

As soon as Mina received the box from Xiao Tianjian, she happily pulled him to play together

Dora wanted to say something more, but was quietly tugged at the hem of her skirt by Winnie, and suddenly realized that although the man in front of her had a very young face, he was actually her father-in-law. Her attitude had been too rude, so in the end, she relented and handed the mosquito repellent box to Xiao Tianjian

Anlong Xinzhi Ding has completed the new batch of weapons. The captain will first escort them to the northern fortress, from where personnel will be dispatched to deliver them to various military units. However, this matter involves military secrets, and Xiao Tianjian, who has withdrawn from the military and political circles for many years, should not inquire about it. He then put on a stern face and said, "This has nothing to do with you"

However, he is unwilling to accept this man's help. Is it true that without this person, he would not be able to do well?

Marshall suddenly came to his senses and hurriedly waved his hand, saying, "No, it's just that I'm getting older and my spirits are a bit low." Suddenly noticing Xiao Tianjian entering with his granddaughter, he quickly stood up and bowed, saying, "You have returned? Please wait a moment with the young lady, I will go make some small round cakes right away." Xiao Tianjian smiled faintly and said, "It's alright, you should rest since your health is not good. However, I remember you are two years younger than I am, so it's not acceptable to give in to age so early."

Anlong was taken aback upon hearing this, his expression becoming complex: "This is my mission." He knew that this man had once been a renowned military commander, with a remarkable record of training a group of civilians, mercenaries, caravan guards, and soldiers into an elite force in a short period of time. If the other party was willing to lend a hand, not only would his task become much easier, but it would also greatly benefit the defense of the border.

"I already have a lot of candy, Grandpa Marshall said that if I eat more, I will lose all my teeth!" Mina remained unfazed

Dora smiled and said, "I just want to know the most popular skirt styles in Ito, and it's also fine to buy fabric to make one. Although Anlong has made some concessions, he must be quite unhappy about it. While he is not here, I will return the items to avoid him blaming me later on." She glanced at the two beautiful boxes on the table, opened the larger one, and touched the exceptionally soft and smooth dress inside, sighing, "This fabric is made from silk soaked in the juice of moonlight grass; I wonder if I will ever have the chance to wear it in my lifetime"

Xiao Tianjian comforted his dejected granddaughter while taking out a new mosquito repellent box from his storage ring to cheer her up. Angered, Dora was about to set the broken one out to dry, and upon seeing this, her frustration escalated. Xiao Tianjian quickly took out another one and said: "Don't be angry, I have more. Don't blame the child; she is already very upset."

Unfortunately, he spoke too soon; within two days, the box malfunctioned because Mina had brought it into the bathtub while she was taking a shower. The poor little box soaked in the water for half an hour and finally could not withstand it.

Xiao Tianjian hurriedly said: "In fact, that is just a highly practical daily item. If it is put away and not used, how can its value be demonstrated? Moreover, its shelf life is only three years; when it becomes unusable, wouldn't that be a waste? Although Meina is just using it for fun, at least she can catch a few mosquitoes."

This time, they discovered other uses for the box. The decorative gems were actually switches. When the red gem was toggled, the box emitted a faint fragrance that deterred snakes and rodents. Toggling the green gem produced soft, melodious music that lulled one to sleep. When the white gem was toggled, the purple glow inside the box would disappear. By pouring in half a cup of water and closing the lid, the box would vibrate with a gurgling sound. After a moment, one only needed to pull open the bottom of the box and pour out the dirty water to clean the bloodstains or remnants of insects stuck to the small balls tied at the ends of the threads.

"One cannot say that," Xiao Tianjian muttered. "Although Mina is slightly inferior to Beiven, she still possesses some talent. She is young, so let her treat it as a game; whatever she can learn is a bonus. She learns easily, and I teach easily. After all, I have nothing to do anyway, so it serves as a way to pass the time."

That is a letter written in a code exclusive to the Security Bureau. Veronica has been gone for many days; she should have returned by now, yet there is still no sign of her, nor any news. He feels a sense of unease; could something have happened? The thought that he was supposed to accompany Veronica weighs heavily on him; if she is in danger, would it not be his responsibility?

One night, a stranger knocked on the door of the Anlong family. Not only did he return the severely injured and unconscious Veronica, but he also brought the devastating news of the complete destruction of the Maicheng Intelligence Station.

Anlong quickly pressed a piece of paper he was writing on with a book, arousing his wife's suspicion: "What are you writing?"

Marshall was originally the youngest son of the Cardo family's old butler. He grew up alongside Mary, who also came from a servant background, and everyone believed they would become a couple. However, the appearance of Xiao Tianjian took Mary's heart away. In fact, Xiao Tianjian was well aware that Mary only regarded Marshall as an older brother, and the latter did not prevent Mary from falling in love with someone else. He always thought there was no romantic relationship between them. Later, when he saw Mary enjoying her time with Marshall, he felt a sense of being deceived, which is why he remained indifferent for many years. In fact, Xiao Tianjian was well aware that Mary only regarded Marshall as an older brother, and the latter did not prevent Mary from falling in love with someone else. He always thought there was no romantic relationship between them. Later, when he saw Mary enjoying her time with Marshall, he felt a sense of being deceived, which is why he remained indifferent for many years.

Xiao Tianjian asked him with a somewhat ingratiating smile: "What are you looking at? Did your wife come to complain just now?"

Xiao Tianjian noticed that his little granddaughter was throwing a tantrum, so he took the opportunity during his break to cheer her up with a smile. Mingna shot him a glance, her eyes rolling, and said: "If you want me not to be angry, that's fine. I want to learn the move that Dad just used, which is to stir someone else's sword with my sword, spin it around, and then push it away, while I turn and jump aside..." As she spoke, she waved her wooden sword, mimicking her father's movements from memory. However, she lost her balance and fell to the ground, landing hard on her little bottom.

Marshall smiled, yet he persisted in measuring the flour. Mina noticed that he seemed quite tired, and felt a pang of sympathy in her heart, quickly advising him: "Grandpa Marshall, I don't want to eat anymore, please stop doing it." Marshall smiled again and pushed her out of the kitchen: "Just sit comfortably, I will finish it soon." He then turned around to continue his work. Mina had no choice but to relent, but she did not run outside; instead, she took a small stool and sat at the little tea table in the corner of the kitchen, just as she usually did, helping Marshall wipe the cups used for tea.

She said that it was something very valuable, and she was afraid I would break it, so she put it away for me first and would return it to me when I grew up

Xiao Tianjian cleared his throat lightly and said somewhat awkwardly: "This... is just a bit of harmless entertainment, I haven't done anything wrong, and I have no interest in those young girls at all"

Dora then remembered her purpose and hurriedly recounted the situation, saying: "It is all your father's fault. A thing worth twenty gold coins was broken in less than two days. Your father does not allow me to scold the child, yet he gives Mina even more things to waste!"

Anlong slightly furrowed his brow: "Is that so? I will talk to him about it."

Mina was particularly interested in the functions of the white gem, repeatedly trying it over and over again. Xiao Tianjian watched and felt a bit proud, knowing that it was his idea, even though it was inspired by a washing machine. To be honest, he was somewhat at a loss regarding his granddaughter's curiosity and thirst for knowledge; no wonder his daughter-in-law was worried. Mina not only experimented with the various functions of the box repeatedly, but also poured different liquids such as tea and milk into it to 'wash,' and even specifically tossed in crumbs from cookies or clumps of dirt to test the box's cleaning ability. He couldn't help but secretly feel relieved that his old friend's work was of guaranteed quality and not easily damaged. Mina not only experimented with the various functions of the box repeatedly, but also poured different liquids such as tea and milk into it to 'wash,' and even specifically tossed in crumbs from cookies or clumps of dirt to test the box's cleaning ability. He couldn't help but secretly feel relieved that his old friend's work was of guaranteed quality and not easily damaged.

Mina shouted nonchalantly, "I am hungry, I want to eat the small round cakes that Winnie makes!" Dora replied, "Winnie is busy making the clothes for the May Festival and doesn't have time to make snacks. How about letting Marshall make them for you instead?"

Dora shook her head, took a deep breath, and turned around angrily. She pushed open the study door and shouted at Anlong: "Look at how your father has spoiled the child! Aren't you going to do something about it?"

Xiao Tianjian felt a surge of joy in his heart, and thereafter, he accompanied his son to the knight training grounds every day. In addition to training the soldiers using the methods he knew, he also developed individual training plans tailored to each knight's weaknesses, which helped his son gain considerable friendships. Anlong's perception of his father improved somewhat, yet his attitude remained indifferent.

The next day, Goodwin came to the door of the library to retrieve the gifts he had sent. Although he felt regret in his heart, he still comforted Dora with kind words in the face of her continuous apologies, expressing his understanding of her actions and sincerely wishing for her and her husband to reconcile soon. Dora watched him leave with deep gratitude, reflecting on how such a good person was unfortunately someone she had not fallen in love with.

Anlong's thoughts were somewhat complicated. On one hand, his father seemed eager to mend the relationship with him and his family, which brought him some joy. On the other hand, his father was once again indulging in frivolous pursuits and a life of excess, which made him extremely angry. Therefore, when faced with his father, he couldn't help but retort: "It seems you are quite well adapted; you can truly find enjoyment wherever you go, allowing me to once again experience your unparalleled charm"

"I am merely drafting a formal letter." Anlong said nonchalantly, "What happened? Why are you so angry?"

Cough... Xiao Tianjian felt that something was amiss and quickly changed the subject, "Well... you probably don't know, right? Mina is currently learning lightness skills and sword techniques from me. I think she is quite clever, and perhaps she will become a master in the future."

Anlong was momentarily unsure whether to be jealous of his daughter or his father: "Is that so? I used to teach her as well, but she just wouldn't apply herself. It seems you truly have a charm, as even a mischievous six-year-old girl is willing to listen to you. However, she is different from Beiven; she is a girl, so you need not waste your time!"

Winnie asked in confusion, "Miss, are you really going to return that dress? It is a token of Mr. Chulov's affection. Besides, aren't you planning to earn face for your husband at the May Festival ball?"

It's Marshall again! A hint of displeasure flashed through Xiao Tianjian's mind as he decided to uphold his grandfather's dignity: "Well... Grandpa will give you a few interesting little things, just like the mosquito repellent box last time, it's quite fun.

A few days later, when Anlong returned to his home from the mountains inhabited by the dwarves, he was somewhat surprised to find that his father and family had already gotten along very harmoniously.

A sound came from the door again, and he quickly hid the letter once more. When he looked up, it turned out to be his father

Anlong silently looked at him for a long while before finally uttering, "Well then, I suppose... it will trouble you."

At this moment, Xiao Tianjian returned with Mingna after practicing lightness skills and noticed a departing carriage that seemed somewhat familiar. Duola only vaguely mentioned that it was a guest, without elaborating further. She simply wiped the sweat from her daughter's forehead with concern, softly complaining, "Look at how exhausted you are! What does a girl need to learn those things for?"

Both father and son remained silent. After a while, Xiao Tianjian could not help but speak: "I almost forgot to tell you, the captain of your knight squad came by once, saying he needs to escort a batch of goods to the northern fortress, and the soldier training duties will be handed over to you. Why do you knights also have to moonlight as delivery men? Surely your superior isn't making extra money on the side, is he?"