Chapter 2, Enlightenment (Part 1)

Old Su merely nodded, watching him busily load bundles of vegetables onto the vehicle with ease

Sitting on the stool, Master Su wanted to say something more, but upon seeing the thin clothing of the young man in the cold wind, he noticed that there was no sign of fear of the cold. Instead, the young man's gaze became focused, and after a moment of waiting, he let out a low sigh and fell silent again

Daily meditation at midnight and noon is indeed a secret that is not passed down. Zhang Xuanning discovered that this is an excellent method of cultivation, a continuous refinement and strengthening of true energy. The only regret is that the residual memories seem to have been nearly exhausted. Some of the most vivid fragments, especially regarding martial arts, are still remembered, but other matters can no longer be restored.

No

Ultimately, the best partners are those who work for the boss and make money.

In the silence, the young man swiftly completed his task. Just as he was about to load the goods, Master Su's hoarse voice sounded again: "So you are the one that Zhen girl saved? You haven't signed a contract with the boss, have you?"

Tea, the practice of whisking and boiling it, only emerged during the mid-Tang Dynasty. Currently, during the Sui period, it should not exist. However, in this world, he has long seen many things that do not align with historical records, and he is not concerned about it at the moment. He simply smiles and says, "Old Su, I would like to wish you an early New Year!"

Perhaps, I can read some characters, maybe I have read a few books in the past, but those past events have faded from memory, and I no longer know what they were like

Ah, it's Xiao Zhang, very good! Did your boss send you to pick up the vegetables?" The previously lonely Su Ye's eyes lit up, and with a smile, he said in a hoarse voice, "It's rare for you to have the heart to come, please send my regards to the old man. Come on, the vegetables are already prepared, just waiting for your arrival. After this batch of vegetables, I will also close the door to celebrate the New Year.

Good morning, boss. Zhang Xuanning finished his tasks, removed the door panel, and was about to sweep the snow in front of the door when he saw the boss coming out as well. The boss yawned and said, "Ah, Xiao Zhang, you are already out. Go to the market and buy some things. It's the last day of the year, so buy whatever you can find. You don't need to sweep the snow here."

"Have you practiced martial arts?" Master Su suddenly asked

"I am fourteen, and I will be fifteen when the New Year comes"

"Old Su, do you have anything to say to me?" Zhang Xuanning felt suspicious in his heart. He took out the money for buying vegetables, arranged it neatly by denomination, and presented it. After counting the excess copper coins and confirming the amount, he put them away.

I do not know, I still need your guidance, Master Su

Zhang Xuanning moved swiftly, pulling the sled, and did not feel any fatigue. Snowflakes fell upon him, and his vital energy flowed gently. Zhang Xuanning could not help but look up at the sky

Pulling the vegetable cart and walking down the street, Zhang Xuanning recalled the scenes from the modern world. The winters back then, no matter what, could not compare to the pure white snow of today... Although there were still many people on the street, it was significantly less than usual. After all, the New Year was approaching, and in this era, the New Year was the most sacred day. Absolutely no one would give up celebrating the New Year just to earn a little money... Although there were still many people on the street, it was significantly less than usual. After all, the New Year was approaching, and in this era, the New Year was the most sacred day. Absolutely no one would give up celebrating the New Year just to earn a little money...

Yes, Uncle Li, indeed, this is the last truck before the New Year

So how old are you this year

Upon stopping the car and entering the door, one sees an old man sitting in the shop. Mr. Su is drinking tea, and upon seeing him enjoying his tea, Zhang Xuanning cannot help but frown again

Indeed, I have practiced before. Although I cannot recall much from the past, I do remember a few things; it seems I have trained in martial arts. Zhang Xuanning spoke candidly, and anyone with a discerning eye could tell that he had practiced martial arts. However, in this world, from his observations, martial arts were quite prevalent. In Yangzhou City alone, there were numerous martial arts schools, and even the public servants had some basic skills, which was not particularly remarkable.

Zhang Xuanning said succinctly that he had not signed any contract of servitude; he was merely temporarily making a living with Old Feng, and it was also a meager way to repay Sister Zhen for her kindness. However, if it meant becoming someone else's servant, he would absolutely refuse.

Over the past three months, Zhang Xuanning has intentionally sought to understand the lives of people in this world, aiming to obtain firsthand information. Therefore, whenever he has free time, he often helps his neighbors with various tasks. He has developed a good rapport with the people on the nearby streets, and many greet him when they see him, to which he responds in kind

Master Su, you are too polite. If you have any instructions, just let me know, and I will certainly comply.

Zhang Xuanning cast a glance at him, who was hesitating in his actions, and said nothing. He had already seen through Cui Han, who was merely a petty person with a bit of cunning, but fundamentally vulgar and unremarkable. Precisely because of this, he was not as diligent in his work on cold days—although the boss had some suspicion and caution, he still preferred the more industrious Zhang Xuanning, at least on the surface.

"Old Su, you flatter me," Zhang Xuanning understood that what Master Su meant was that he had been diligent in his work over the past few months, buying groceries and never being greedy for a single penny—something that was quite common among others. However, Zhang Xuanning did not care for such trivial amounts of money and refused to tarnish himself for these petty matters

In the blink of an eye, three months have passed, and the weather is getting colder.

Xiao Zhang, you are out to pick vegetables again

Upon hearing your words, I can tell that you are a cautious and scholarly person. Haha, however, since you have asked, I will share my thoughts with you. As Su Ye spoke of this, a hint of pride emerged.

He was sitting right across from him. Although Master Su did not speak for a moment, he remained calm and composed, showing no signs of impatience.

This matter is not ordinary, and I must discuss it with you. Do you know about the Bamboo Flower Gang?

As winter arrives, the nights grow longer; however, the business of the shop remains quite good, so they still open the store at dawn.

"I truly apologize for keeping you waiting, Mr. Su," Zhang Xuanning smiled, "Moreover, it is only natural to pay my respects to you, Mr. Su. Not to mention, I have received much care from you over these past few months."

Ah, it is snowing in the night! As Zhang Xuanning got out of her warm bed to open the door, she suddenly discovered a world blanketed in white. Could it be that it snows in the south as well?

Zhang Xuanning listened and smiled: "Good!"

Cui Han also got up, wearing an expression of reluctance and unwillingness

In the context of Zhang Xuanning deliberately keeping a low profile and avoiding suspicion, this job is actually being done quite well, after all, diligent and strong laborers who do not require payment are not very common

"Your speech is truly refined; have you studied before?" At this point, the elderly man suddenly inquired.

It is not flattery, but rather a fact. For instance, that Cui Han, who enjoys clever tricks, cannot match even half of your capabilities. Master Su shook his head and said, "You have read books and practiced martial arts; although you may have forgotten much, it is sufficient. I, Master Su, would like to discuss a matter with you."

Yes, please come and sit down to talk. You run fast, so it won't take much time to say a bit more here. Master Su looked at him and hesitated for a moment

Fortunately, it has not been delayed, it has not been delayed. Master Su murmured, pausing for a moment, he continued: I have observed you for quite some time, you work diligently, handle matters reliably, never greedy, never resentful, at your age, this is truly rare

There was not much time, and Zhang Xuanning quickly arrived at the market's shop, where she saw several vendors trying to attract customers with their carts. Zhang Xuanning smiled, realizing that with the New Year approaching, business had also slowed down.

Having just tied the vegetables and meat together, Zhang Xuanning pondered for a moment, feeling that they would not come loose on the way. He lifted his head, ready to let out a long sigh, only to find the old man staring at him with a rather peculiar gaze

"Alright, I will go right away." Zhang Xuanning pulled the vegetable cart with two wheels, effortlessly dragging it out of the snow, ignoring the strange expression of the boss behind her