Chapter 270: Trying to Steal a Chicken Only to Lose the Rice! (Seeking Monthly Tickets)

Chapter 270: Going Out to Steal a Chicken and Losing the Bait! (Asking for Monthly Votes)

Xiao Wan'er was naturally unaware of what was on Chen Yi's mind, so she merely nodded her lovely head.

After a moment's thought, she spoke in a gentle, warm tone:

"Sister Cui must have heard about my plans to establish the Medical Academy, so she likely came to learn a bit more about it."

A look of realization crossed Chen Yi's face. "Does she want to have a hand in it too?"

Xiao Wan'er said with a touch of hesitation, "Are you saying she wants to join me?"

"I only thought she was asking about the specific approach so her family could build one in Qinghe."

"After all, she probably won't stay in Shuzhou for long. Joining me... that seems unlikely."

Chen Yi shook his head and said, "It's just a guess. Who knows what that Miss Cui is thinking."

Though he was not entirely certain, based on his understanding of Cui Qingwu during this period, she would not be leaving Shuzhou anytime soon.

The reason was simple.

The Yunqing Tower she had opened in the West Market did not look like a casual endeavor.

Of course, it was also possible that this eldest young mistress of the Cui family was so fabulously wealthy that she simply did not care about such a "small-time" business.

One could never tell.

Xiao Wan'er gave an understanding murmur upon hearing this, lowering her head to take a sip of her porridge, her pale cheek flushing with a faint blush as it puffed out slightly.

Silence fell for a moment.

Xiao Wan'er looked up at Chen Yi once more and asked, "If she really does intend to, should I refuse her?"

Chen Yi thought it over and said, "To consider this matter, I need to know whether you mind her interfering with the Medical Academy."

"I, a little bit... I'm just worried that she might..."

"Disrupt it?"

Xiao Wan'er nodded with a touch of embarrassment. "Once the Medical Academy is properly established, it will benefit both the country and the people, so I want to do my absolute best."

"Moreover, I have never done this before, though I have you to help me."

"She has never encountered anything like this either, so I am just afraid..."

Chen Yi smiled. This was indeed Xiao Wan'er's true, innermost thoughts.

Her first thought was not that Cui Qingwu would claim the Medical Academy for herself, nor did she think of hiding her own light.

She was merely worried that Cui Qingwu might inadvertently make a mistake, preventing the Medical Academy from reaching absolute perfection.

"If it is only that, I believe we could let Miss Cui join in."

Xiao Wan'er was slightly dazed, her beautiful eyes staring at him without so much as a blink.

There was a trace of bewilderment in her gaze.

Chen Yi smiled and explained, "There are two reasons."

"Miss Cui hails from the Qinghe Cui family. She has all the wealth and manpower one could want. If the academy encounters difficulties in the future, she will naturally have a duty to lend a hand."

Hearing this, Xiao Wan'er could not help but lightly swat his hand, saying in gentle reproach:

"I have no such thoughts."

"If the academy truly faces difficulties, it is only right that I find a way to resolve them."

"If I were to invite Sister Qingwu to join me just for this reason, wouldn't that be using her?"

Chen Yi feigned rubbing the back of his hand, saying with a wry smile, "You are kind-hearted, Elder Sister, so of course you wouldn't think that way. It was I who overthought it."

"No, no, I..."

Noticing the glances of Xiao Wuge, Shen Huatang, and the others on the far side, Xiao Wan'er shifted her posture and gestured:

"You, you continue... in any case, I have no such intentions."

Chen Yi burst into a quiet laugh. It would not do to tease her further, so he continued:

"As for the second point, it is very simple. By joining you, Miss Cui will also be able to witness the entire process of the Medical Academy being perfected piece by piece."

"If she is able to establish a Medical Academy in another region in the future, it would also fulfill your wish."

Of course, the most critical point—Cui Qingwu being on good terms with Xiao Wan'er represented, to a certain degree, the Cui family being on good terms with the Xiao family.

After all, the Qinghe Cui family to which Cui Qingwu belonged was not a single bit weaker than the Jiangnan Mansion Chen family, the Jingzhou Liu family, or the Shuzhou Xiao family.

In fact, because the patriarch of the Cui family, Cui Mao, held a position among the Nine Ministers, it was enough to make most outsiders who were ignorant of the truth wary.

The reason Chen Yi did not speak of this was likely due to his worry that Xiao Wan'er would find it too "utilitarian."

Thus, he had to at least ensure that the Medical Academy remained pure on the surface.

After listening to him, a smile surfaced on Xiao Wan'er's face; clearly, the second point had struck a chord in her heart.

"If Sister Qingwu is interested, I certainly will not refuse her."

Pausing for a moment, she added, "However, it is still best that I ask clearly."

"After all, this is not a business for earning silver. If Sister Qingwu is merely curious, I will not force her."

Chen Yi gave an understanding murmur and said no more.

However, he was mostly certain that Cui Qingwu's little schemes had definitely targeted the Medical Academy.

Otherwise, given that Miss Cui's haughty demeanor, if she had no interest, she would not have bothered to ask a single question.

At most, upon learning of Xiao Wan'er's idea, she would have chimed in with a few polite compliments and the like.

Seeing his agreement, the smile on Xiao Wan'er's face grew even brighter. She ate a few pastries, then took a letter from Cui'er by her side and placed it on the table.

"There is another piece of good news. The letters sent out previously to several grandmasters of medicine received a reply today."

Chen Yi set down his bowl and chopsticks, raising an eyebrow. "Which one is it?"

"A grandmaster of medicine from Guangyue Mansion, a descendant of the Fuyang Sect, named Lyu Chungle."

"He replied saying that he will lead his people to Shuzhou in a matter of days to diagnose Grandfather's illness."

As Xiao Wan'er spoke, she could not help but feel a few touches of worry once more.

"Tell me, would a grandmaster of medicine like him be willing to come and serve as the academy's head?"

Chen Yi shook his head. "It is hard to say."

"As long as he possesses medical ethics, he should be interested. At the very least, he will leave something behind."

He had naturally heard of the Fuyang Sect.

That was a grand lineage within the medical path, holding the belief that "all diseases under heaven are caused by damaged Yang energy," and that "the primordial true Yang is the very foundation of life."

Consequently, the physicians of this sect mostly focused on warming the Yang when diagnosing and prescribing, excelling in the use of pungent and hot ingredients, and placing heavy reliance on classic formulas.

"But you must not worry too much, Elder Sister. Once they arrive in Shuzhou and examine the Old Master's illness, we can still think of other ways."

"If the east does not shine, the west will; there will always be some harvest."

"Mmh..."

Not long after, several people finished their morning meal.

Shen Huatang gathered Xiao Duo, Cui’er, and others to clear the tables and chairs.

Chen Yi sat in the living room chatting idly with Xiao Wan’er and Xiao Wugou.

Since Xiao Xuan’ao had matters to attend to, he had graciously allowed Xiao Wugou a day’s rest, so today he did not go to the martial arts training ground.

Yet, before dawn, Xiao Wugou had already risen in the courtyard, standing at attention for his exercises.

Truly diligent.

So now, Xiao Wugou was recounting in detail how he had practiced at the martial arts ground.

Not boastful, but certainly worthy of praise.

At least Xiao Wan’er, upon hearing his account, wore a visage of relief.

“Wugou, your second uncle has taught you with such care—do not let him down in the future.”

“My older sister, rest assured. I will work hard.”

Xiao Wugou patted his chest in assurance, then turned to Chen Yi:

“Brother-in-law, when will Sisiling return? She had promised to teach me some techniques—she won’t forget, will she?”

Chen Yi smiled and shook his head: “She must have been delayed by some matter.”

“But don’t worry—later I’ll go ask her myself. She’ll definitely teach you some hand techniques.”

“That’s good…”

As they spoke, Xiao Duo hurried back, her face somewhat flustered.

“Your Highness, Uncle, Young Master, there’s been an incident outside…”

Xiao Wan’er paused, raising a hand to signal her to speak more slowly.

Xiao Duo, not waiting to catch her breath, quickly continued: “Just then, a message came from the court—saying…”

“What are they saying?”

“They say the barbarian tribe might launch an attack on the Mengshui Pass!”

Upon hearing this, Xiao Wan’er’s expression shifted subtly, her eyes revealing a mixture of bewilderment, sorrow, and anxiety.

“How could this be… Xiao Duo, who did you hear this from?”

“Your Highness, it was several knights who said so. They also mentioned that the Patriarch has already issued an order to enforce martial law at our mansion.”

After Xiao Duo’s words, Xiao Wan’er’s face paled, and the warm glow in her eyes dimmed.

Seeing this, Chen Yi naturally understood the cause and asked gently:

“Xiao Duo, is this an urgent report from the Mengshui Pass?”

Xiao Duo shook her head. “No, not exactly. They said a son of the left king of the barbarian tribe, now present in Shuzhou, has been branded a slave.”

“So many at our mansion have speculated that the barbarians might launch a major assault to avenge this ‘crown prince.’”

“Crown prince?”

Chen Yi internally chuckled. When did a mere barbarian child, who had been grazing on the outskirts of the Black Bear Tribe, become a crown prince?

Thinking this, he smiled, drawing the attention of those around him.

“If that’s the case, I think this matter still needs further investigation.”

Xiao Wan’er’s beautiful eyes tightly fixed on him, her hands clasped in front of her, her expression unmistakably worried.

She truly dreaded another campaign in Shuzhou, especially one led by the barbarians advancing northward.

Not to mention the past—how many of the Xiao family had perished in battles against the barbarians across generations.

As for the recent great war, she had personally witnessed countless loved ones departing.

Her father, her mother, her great-uncle Xiao Zhan, her third uncle Xiao Rui, and countless others from various branches of the family—all fell in battle.

Most died on the battlefield.

“Is that so?”

“Yes, as far as I know, the barbarian tribe is now engulfed in internal strife due to the vacancy of the throne.”

“Several claimants to succession each wage their own wars, and many of their followers have joined them. Even the left king of the barbarians, Mu Hage, cannot escape this turmoil.”

Chen Yi gently patted Xiao Wan’er’s hand, soothing her: “My dear sister, stay calm—there’s still time before things reach their worst.”

Meeting his gaze, the knot of worry in Xiao Wan’er’s heart warmed slightly.

She nodded gently, slowly releasing the painful memories of the past, “You’re right.”

She steadied her thoughts, then looked at Xiao Wugou and Xiao Duo, forcing a small smile.

Comforting herself, she also comforted them.

“For now, it’s not yet the worst. Let’s wait until Grandfather and others investigate thoroughly.”

Xiao Wugou had no intention of fear at all.

In fact, he was eager to prove himself:

“If they dare to attack again, the Second Sister will surely crush them without leaving a single scale unscathed.”

Xiao Wan’er flicked his arm playfully: “Don’t speak so boldly.”

“On the battlefield, even great masters can meet their downfall—what chance does your sister have?”

Xiao Wugou patted his head sheepishly, falling silent.

After a while of idle chatter.

Seeing that everyone’s demeanor had eased, Chen Yi stood and prepared to leave.

As Xiao Wan’er instinctively followed him: “You—you should take some guards with you.”

“Even if the barbarians or the Pekoe Kingdom’s bandits don’t attack, the city itself may still be restless.”

Chen Yi smiled and nodded: “Rest assured—even if they come, the mansion’s grounds will be safe.”

“Take some knights with you, and then I’ll feel at ease.”

“Very well, as you wish.”

As Chen Yi was about to leave the Jia Xing Yard, two figures approached the door.

It was Cui Qingwu, whom he had met the previous night, and her maid, Huan’er.

Chen Yi thought, “How timely,” and said: “My dear sister, Cui Sir’s here.”

He added, “Just in time for you to ask her about the news outside.”

Xiao Wan’er nodded, entrusted him with all matters, and stepped forward to greet them.

“Qingwu, don’t trouble yourself. I’ve been delayed by some affairs, so I didn’t meet you at the gate.”

Qingwu hurried over, smiling: “Sister Wan’er, it’s nothing—I wouldn’t let you meet me.”

She then noticed Chen Yi’s departure and greeted him:

“Sir Light, are you heading out?”

Chen Yi nodded calmly, remarked that they were busy, and departed at once.

This woman abandoned her duties to run here—what a waste of time.

Well, it was all just his suggestion anyway.

There was little point in saying more now.

After all, without Cui Qingwu, he had already prepared a contingency, so in the end it made little difference.

Cui Qingwu glanced at his expression and felt a flicker of irritation.

How could this woman, his sister-in-law by name, act so dismissive?

She didn’t even deign to acknowledge him.

Thinking this, her eyes shifted: “Sister Wan, is it appropriate for Mr. Chuan Zhe to leave now?”

Xiao Wanhua blinked. “What do you mean?”

“The outside world is in chaos these days.”

“Because of the son of Wu Wang?”

“Indeed, it’s about that.”

“I’ve also heard that the barbarian Wu Wang Mu Ha Ge has already learned of his son’s affairs in Shu Zhou and is mustering troops.”

“Is that so?”

“I—”

Before Chen Yi could walk far, he could no longer endure it. Turning back, he interrupted the two:

“Cui Sister, I wonder where my elder brother is now?”

Cui Qingwu paused, her lips curving slightly—not quite a smile. “Mr. Chuan Zhe still recognizes his brother, wouldn’t he know his whereabouts?”

Chen Yi, knowing she was testing him, bowed his head quietly:

“My elder brother’s kindness is deeply appreciated.”

“Though he is merely an assistant to the Governor’s Office, I dare not intrude. I beg you, Cui Sister, to inform me.”

Cui Qingwu thought this made sense, glanced at the sky, and said: “Our brother will visit the East Market at noon.”

Chen Yi blinked. The East Market?

“He’s going there… on official business?”

“Indeed. I’ve heard it’s Master Yang who sent him to inspect the grain stores. I suppose Mr. Chuan Zhe has heard the rumors—city grain prices are soaring.”

Upon hearing this, Chen Yi felt a sudden flutter in his chest.

Still, glancing at the time, he saw it was well before noon, so he relaxed.

It couldn’t be mere coincidence.

It was impossible.

Even if the great Taoist immortal were calculating his fate, it couldn’t be just Chen Chuan.

As he pondered this, he nodded to the others and left the Jia Xing Garden.

Cui Qingwu watched his retreating figure and felt his actions oddly mysterious.

But after hearing Xiao Wanhua’s words, she understood.

“Sister Qing, tell me—what news is there from outside? Are the barbarians really coming?”

“Oh, sister Wan, I was just guessing—”

Cui Qingwu wasn’t so naive. Upon realizing Chen Yi’s intentions, she saw through it.

There was no need to let Xiao Wanhua worry further.

Yet as she considered this, she couldn’t help but find Chen Yi peculiar.

—Since arriving in Shu Zhou, why had his temper turned so carefree?

Being the husband of Master Xiao’s younger daughter wasn’t enough—he even coveted Xiao Wanhua?

What if he failed to capture the chicken but ended up stealing the rice?

……

Unaware of Cui Qingwu’s thoughts, Chen Yi reached the courtyard and, following Xiao Wanhua’s instructions, had Liu Si Er drive him to Ji Shi Pharmacy.

He had originally planned to visit Bai Cao Tang first.

But upon learning that Chen Chuan was at the East Market at noon, he felt uneasy.

After all, the Taoist immortal’s reputation preceded him.

What if he told Chen Chuan that his fortunes would prosper, that he’d grow rich beyond measure? Who knew what consequences might follow?

Not long after, Liu Si Er arrived with the carriage, taking Chen Yi out of the courtyard.

“Huh? Why’s he back?”

“Liu Hong?”

Upon hearing Liu Si Er’s mutter, Chen Yi lifted the curtain and glanced out, raising an eyebrow.

Liu Hong?

(Chapter Complete)