Chapter 4, The Bamboo Horse Accompanies the Green Plum

In fact, marrying Zhang Cheng is not a bad idea; he is honest and caring, and his family has a house and a few acres of land. There is no need to serve in-laws, nor to compete with a sister-in-law. As long as the couple gets along well, wouldn't life be as sweet as honey? ... I wonder which girl is so fortunate ... ? ... She couldn't help but feel a bit troubled; Zhang Cheng has lost his parents, and naturally, no one is concerned about his marriage. It would be better to discuss it with her aunt and say that she wants to marry Zhang Cheng as his wife ... ? ... She couldn't help but feel a bit troubled; Zhang Cheng has lost his parents, and naturally, no one is concerned about his marriage. It would be better to discuss it with her aunt and say that she wants to marry Zhang Cheng as his wife ... ? ...

Zhang said, "Do not speak of it, that Young Master Pei's medical skills are truly remarkable, and his appearance is also quite handsome. If he were not already married, he would indeed be a perfect match." After saying this, he shook his head in regret and turned to continue cutting the meat

The regulations were suddenly infuriated, and he exclaimed, "That woman from the Qi family is not afraid of the wind causing her to slip up her tongue! Why doesn't she send her daughter to be a concubine? Aren't other people's daughters also born and raised by their parents?"

Zhang Cheng lowered his head and said, "Your uncle is ill, and I have no other skills. I can only exert some effort to plow a piece of land so that you will have food to eat in the future. Moreover, it is the ox that bears the burden; I am merely assisting with the plow."

Zhang filtered the medicine and gave it to Liu Hong, while Wu Wang held a bamboo branch to poke at the aphids, humming and singing: "Heaven and hell are created by man, the ancients were unwilling to make it clear, in the end, good and evil must be repaid, it is only a matter of arriving early or late..."

Do not expect the way, "I have caused the doctor to laugh! It is the rambling decree of Deng Yubin."

Do not expect to speak slowly, "If he truly does not come, I will still have to seek him out. What does it matter to leave with a limp! At most, I will pay a little more in consultation fees. If he still refuses, I will kneel before him. However, such a person is indeed not someone one can rely on for a lifetime."

Suddenly, someone coughed lightly behind her. Turning around, she was surprised to find it was Pei Zhen again! Wu Wangxin sighed inwardly, thinking how coincidental it was that every time he came, she happened to be in the courtyard. No matter how she tried to avoid him, she could not escape their encounters; it must be a clash of fate! With no other choice, she said, "Doctor Pei has arrived! My uncle and aunt are inside, please follow me."

Without hesitation, Wu Wang responded, set down the medicine pot, sealed the stove, and with the unburned firewood, threw in the sweet potatoes all at once. Then, using the fire tongs, he poked at it, and immediately sparks flew in all directions. Zhang, seeing this, hurriedly advised, "Be careful not to get burned, place a pot of water on top."

One should not expect to know that he is speaking politely, nor should one hand him a cloth soaked in water to wipe his face after wringing it out.

This girl, has she found a treasure!" Zhang placed a piece of meat on the chopping board and, seeing her giggling to herself, couldn't help but laugh along.

Do not expect to nod honestly, "I saw it, it is the plow used for oxen, supported by Brother Zhang from the Zhang family."

Depei pouted and sat down to drink tea in silence. Wuwang tipped over a bowl of water and handed it to Zhang Cheng, smiling, "Truly, it is hard work for the Zhang family brother, even when leaving, one cannot rest easy!"

Do not expect to serve him tea, she smiled and said, "My aunt has gone to the butcher Wang's house to cut meat, I hope Brother Zhang will do me the honor."

Zhang said, "Indeed! He is still young, and his body is weak; he cannot endure the cold any longer"

The regulations were thus concluded, and he added, "I have made an agreement with Pei Ge'er to cultivate the barren land behind the house while I am still here, planting some wheat and sorghum; it is always good to stockpile some grain."

Pei Zhen listened to the girl's delicate voice, her appearance dignified, seemingly even more beautiful than the last time they met. He immediately adjusted his attire, bowed deeply, and did not dare to show any sign of disrespect

The regulations seemed somewhat hesitant, stammering, "I pondered for most of the night last night, and there is nothing good about adopting a son. A layer of skin separates us, as if there are thousands of rivers and mountains in between. No matter how filial and respectful one may be, it is likely to be of no use. Every day, one still has to live with a heavy heart; how can one compare to the current ease and freedom..."

As per the regulations, "Tomorrow I will bring some tobacco leaves, soak them in water, and then just dip a brush in it."

Upon hearing this, Wu Wang immediately thought of using a shoulder pole to confront him, angrily saying, "When have I ever wanted to find Brother Zhang's family as a son-in-law? You are filled with thoughts of male thieves and female prostitutes, and your education has gone to the dogs!" Wen Jun was known for his sharp tongue; the sarcastic remarks of a scholar who couldn't even pass the lowest examination were not worth taking too seriously, and it was best to simply dismiss them. Wu Wang had planned to do just that, but unfortunately, later on, Wen Jun was grounded by his father and never came back. The sarcastic remarks of a scholar who couldn't even pass the lowest examination were not worth taking too seriously, and it was best to simply dismiss them. Wu Wang had planned to do just that, but unfortunately, later on, Wen Jun was grounded by his father and never came back

The two individuals were busily engaged in their work under the scorching summer sun, with no breeze to alleviate the heat. They had to shield their foreheads with their hands to gaze into the distance. They had only plowed a small portion of the land, yet it extended a hundred zhang in length. Such a vast expanse of land will require sowing, watering, fertilizing, and weeding in the future, which is likely to be no trivial matter

Zhang Cheng listened to her and felt a hint of disappointment, also realizing that he had been rather abrupt, which made him feel somewhat guilty towards her. After a pause, he said, "I heard that Mama Qi has introduced a match for you? The family background of the groom is quite good, as they have been practicing medicine for generations?"

As the regulations were being put in place, a roof was added to the cattle shed, and stakes were used to secure the four corners. Thick door panels were installed, and a lock was placed. Depei walked around a few times, praising, "Brother Zhang indeed has great skills; it is even better than the work done by the craftsmen hired with money by the Tiesheng family by the river! My mother said that we must invite you to stay for dinner tonight to express our gratitude!"

"Last year, there was a lot of rain, which flooded the vegetable cellar, causing many greens, radishes, and corn to rot. Now, only these remain. Fortunately, this year's shepherd's purse and garland chrysanthemum are edible; otherwise, we would have to eat pickled cucumbers at every meal," said Zhang with annoyance. He then called out, "Go check how the medicine on the stove is boiling. These few sweet potatoes are buried in the ashes; they will be ready to eat soon."

Zhang Jia's elder brother's father gave him a name that suits him well, called Zhang Cheng. Zhang Cheng is seventeen years old this year. A few years ago, his parents passed away one after another, and now, like her, he is a pitiful person without father or mother. However, she still has uncles and aunts, while Zhang Cheng is all alone, returning home to a cold stove and empty pot every day, which is truly lamentable! It is precisely for this reason that she does not expect to be particularly close to him, yet the more she sees him, the more she likes him. In contrast, Wen Jun does not engage in any productive work, only cares about foolishly laughing, looking just like a big gourd! At such times, Wen Jun would shout, "How old are you now, and you are already thinking about finding a son-in-law! I feel embarrassed for you! Are you attracted to his face or what? If you really want to find a son-in-law, you cannot choose someone like him, who has no relatives or connections, and not even a single person to help him. Can this foolishness be enough to eat?"

Zhang Cheng saw her cheeks slightly flushed from the sun and frowned, saying, "What are you doing standing under the sun? Be careful not to get sunburned."

Without hope, she sighed. Just as she was about to advise him, she suddenly heard the sound of hooves. A man in white was galloping on horseback; it was that young master from the Pei family. For some reason, she felt a momentary panic, as if she were a thief caught in the act. However, she quickly thought that without a matchmaker and a formal engagement, no marriage could be established. Moreover, her aunt had already returned, so what was there to fear? Speaking with anyone here had nothing to do with others. Thus, she bowed from a distance and regained her composure.

That Young Master Pei... On that day, we merely exchanged glances, not even a single word was spoken. It is true that he is handsome, and it seems that his medical skills are also commendable. However, no matter how good he is, he is still someone else's. Moreover, he came uninvited, and such hasty behavior only serves to irritate her; she does not consider him a suitable match.

Pei Zhen noticed her pale face and did not want to say anything further, so he led the servant into the house. Wu Wang only guided him to the door but did not enter; he then heard Zhang's voice exclaiming, "Oh, Heavenly Buddha, you have come!" She turned and left the courtyard to go to the field to look for De Pei and Zhang Cheng.

Without expecting it, a warmth spread through my heart upon hearing those words, and my face grew even warmer. I lowered my head in response, took the teapot into the room, and sat behind the stove, lost in thought.

Zhang's Dao, "The leg that was swollen over the bone has returned to normal, it seems there is no major issue, Amitabha, I can finally get a good night's sleep! But what about the other leg? Am I really going to have to seek out Young Master Pei?"

Depay pointed to that half piece of land, looking quite pleased, "Do you see? We cultivated it!"

The regulations and Depei acted decisively, and early the next morning, they harnessed the ox and headed to the vacant land behind the house. Wuwang had been embroidering flowers at home for an hour, and after stretching her sore neck, she walked into the courtyard. Under the phoenix tree lay a bamboo tube; she pulled out the stopper, and a pungent smell of water smoke wafted out, presumably used for killing aphids. Looking at the ground nearby, she noticed a bamboo branch wrapped in cotton at both ends, leaning against the phoenix tree. Wuwang couldn't help but smile—indeed, the Zhang family brother was clever; without a brush, he naturally found another substitute! She tried it out, and it felt quite comfortable in her hand. Just as she rolled up her sleeves, preparing to engage in a grand endeavor with the books, she saw Mrs. Zhang approaching with a basket containing several sweet potatoes and four or five taros, her face filled with worry.

Without hope, I thought for a moment. Last night, it seemed I did not hear Uncle cry out in pain, so I asked Zhang, "Is Uncle's leg feeling any better?"

Do not wish to ponder in silence, for I fear that by then he will also be unable to act on his own accord. Once he has passed the rites of passage, he will be someone else's son. Since ancient times, the marriage of children must heed the commands of their parents. That family will certainly seek a suitable match for him; how can he have the right to decide for himself? Thus, I said with a hint of reluctance, "Brother Zhang, do not think too much. I believe you will have the blessings of your ancestors in the future, and I am happy for you. We have known each other for many years, and our bond is like that of siblings. What marriage or betrothal is there to speak of? It would only invite ridicule! My uncles and aunts are all present, and they will make decisions for me; I cannot dare to disrupt the established rules."

Putting down the water jug and porcelain bowl, she plucked a lotus leaf to wear on her head, waiting on the ridge for them to return.

Do not expect a serious expression, "It's nothing. Aunt, have you seen our new cow shed? Now Peige no longer has to sleep outside"

Without hope, she appeared somewhat lost in thought, her complexion growing increasingly pale, biting her lip, and trembling slightly. Zhang Cheng, seeing her in such a state, felt anxious and spoke without thinking, "If you can wait for me, I will definitely inform the elders when I go over, and I will ask a matchmaker to come and propose, ensuring that I marry you in a grand manner, and I will not tarnish your status as a lady from a respectable family..." As he spoke, he bent down to observe her expression, hesitatingly asking, "Are you... willing?"

It was quite unexpected; I always thought that Zhang Cheng was like a gourd with its mouth sawed off, but today he actually got angry. Indeed, one should not judge a person by their appearance! He then laughed and said, "My aunt has already returned, so rest assured, I will not do anything underhanded."

Without wishing to sidestep, she gathered her robes and returned the greeting, intending to lead them inside. However, Pei Zhen stood under the melon shed, showing no intention of moving, and simply asked, "What song did Miss Chun Jun just sing?"

Pei Zhen's expression was dark and gloomy, causing the young servant to be too frightened to speak. He thought to himself that something serious was about to happen; this master was truly formidable when angered. Now, with jealousy consuming him, his resentment was palpable. This Miss Chun Jun was indeed skilled; if she were to be welcomed into the household in the future, she would surely make the master a foolish man who favored a concubine over his wife.

Do not expect a bitter smile, "What matchmaking! That family wants to take a concubine, asking me to be a secondary wife."

The sun gradually set, and Wu Wang, who had just hung the dried clothes, stood under the melon shed looking up. To his surprise, the cucumbers that had been harvested were infested with aphids. At that moment, Zhang Cheng, who had just washed his face, was walking over. Wu Wang, at a loss for what to do, asked, "Is there any way to get rid of these aphids?"

The afterglow of the setting sun illuminated Wu Wang's face, her features picturesque, exuding an indescribable charm and grace. Zhang Cheng was momentarily taken aback, hurriedly adjusting his tone, his face flushed crimson, and after a long pause, he said, "The other day, a distant cousin of mine came to see me, saying he wanted to adopt me as his son. He has some properties but no one to inherit them. Upon hearing that both my parents have passed away, he wishes to take me in to care for him..."

Suddenly coming to his senses, Wu Wang was so startled that he patted his chest, then began to chuckle again. Isn't this exactly what Wen Jun had predicted? He himself is coveting the beauty of young men?

Zhang's elder brother is a good person, honest and sincere. Although he is illiterate, he is humble and courteous, treating others with great kindness. Initially, when Wu Wang arrived in this place, there was no interaction with him. However, every morning, she would see him passing by her house with a basket on his back. Over time, they began to nod and smile at each other, gradually becoming familiar. In Wu Wang's eyes, it seems there is nothing that Zhang's elder brother cannot do. He can repair roofs, build stoves, fish, and farm. Now that he has come to Depei, he can even construct a cow shed, truly capable of anything under heaven and earth.

He only saw Pei Zhen smiling and saying, "The words are quite charming!" Wu Wang glanced at him and saw that the young man stood tall and elegant, refined and gentle, with a pair of eyebrows and eyes that subtly hinted at spring. In a moment of distraction, two words "beauty" popped into his mind, and then he began to think critically again. How could a man grow up like this, surpassing all the women? No wonder he couldn't keep his legitimate wife and was still thinking of marrying a concubine. He must be frivolous and reckless, wasting such a beautiful face! Thus, he said again, "Please follow me."

Zhang Cheng smiled shyly and wiped his sweat, saying, "What is this worth? There is no need for thanks!"

One cannot help but feel that fate is playing tricks, as such a diligent and good man is about to leave. It is truly a regret that in this lifetime, there may not be another opportunity to meet again