Reborn as the Evil Stepmother? Boxing Queen Tames the War God General & Seduces His Hidden Marquis!

Reborn as the Evil Stepmother? Boxing Queen Tames the War God General & Seduces His Hidden Marquis!

Ah! How dare they act this way? They’re hitting people! It hurts! It hurts! Today You attack widow and orphans? Dogs stealing Jiang family home will end like this pot! Impressive skills! Aren’t these the mother and daughter from earlier? What’s wrong here? Quick, help them! Wen Tang Your mother’s condition There’s no value in treating it anymore. The longer we wait the more we’ll lose everything. Watch where you’re going! Stop pushing! Haven’t bathed for days, you smell awful. It’s my fault I’m useless. Shouldn’t have made you fight for my treatment. Put me down! Just let me die! Mom, stay still. I will cure you, I swear. That’s the same mother and daughter! Why… Can never protect my family… What’s this ugly mug? You startled me! Take it. Hey, Liu Hai! Who am I? Where is this? Ugh. Sweetheart You’d even sell your own daughter? Stop pretending with me! Miss Pure-and-Noble? Back when I fought underground and worked kitchens, this cleaver cut from Causeway Bay to Heaven’s Gate! Who are you to judge? Selling my baby? I’ve been good, Mommy… Why would Mommy want to sell me? What’s that noise? Brother’s right, stepmom’s evil! That’s her true feelings. She called me stepmother… Have I entered the story? Go. Damn, that woman is ruthless. Duoduo, are you okay? Let me check. Big bro warned you before— never go out alone with her. You wicked stepmother! Sold my sister to traffickers! I’ll beat you! What? Stepmother? Duoduo? Selling children? ! This is exactly like— the novel I just read! Did I transmigrate into this book? Stepmothers are all evil! Where did you take your sister? How many times must I say— no taking your sister out! No going out! You brat! Keep running— Come here! Run again— I’ll teach you to disobey me! Unless you kill me, witch— you’ll never sell my sister! Your late husband owed me 200 grand. It’s written in black and white. So— when will you pay up? We have no money left. I’m begging you! Holy smokes! I cut ties with that gambler— years ago! Want money? Ask my sandbag-sized fist— if it agrees! So young… Already caring for family. What a good child. Stop patting my head! Don’t think I don’t know— you’re just acting kind— to avoid village gossip! Wicked woman! Just wait— When I grow up, I will end you! So I can really hear— people’s inner thoughts! Jiang Luan… I remember in the book— there’s a general named Jiang Luan. They call him God of Slaughter. Buried 200,000 prisoners alive. Loves massacring cities. This weak child… Can’t be coincidence! Wen Tang! Get out here now! Ow! You dared sell my niece? ! In your eyes— do I mean nothing as your elder? ! Wen Tang promised me— to get rid of the kids— split the family fortune! Why’d she bring Duoduo back? ! You cursed woman! My brother’s been comatose less than a year— already desperate to remarry? ! Selling kids to remarry! That child trafficker— I arranged him myself! Should’ve assaulted and killed her! Pathetic! So you both hired the trafficker! Nonsense! No one believes your lies! Don’t waste words— with this heartless wench! Take her to the river— Let’s throw her in! Neighbors, listen! My daughter-in-law wouldn’t sell kids. This must be misunderstanding! Misunderstanding? The trafficker’s already— been arrested! He confessed everything. It was her! Definitely her doing! How could she sell kids? ! Even though— they’re not her biological children— we’re still family! Have some compassion! Please spare her! You don’t decide— You’re not our real mother! When did— you get to lead this family? ! Dalong! Xiaofeng! Auntie, I’m begging you. Auntie begs you Grandma, get up please You’re Uncle’s elder Why fear them? Though Father has soul-separation illness I’m still here protecting our home No one will seize our ancestral home and fertile fields You insolent brat I’ll kick you senseless Luan’er, you’re too young to fight them Hold your tongue Hahaha A house of weaklings and cripples Your frail bones weigh less than my bosom Think carefully about your own worth Dare oppose me again? Disgusting! Enough chatter Take them to the magistrate! Ah! How dare they act this way? They’re hitting people! It hurts! It hurts! Today You attack widow and orphans? Dogs stealing Jiang family home will end like this pot! Impressive skills! Aiya! Let’s go Not worth dying for spectacle Quick, leave! Hey! Hey! Don’t leave! You vicious shrew! Disrespectful wretch! Today I’ll spare you for now The court will judge you Just leave already! The river’s full of big fish today Must check the nets quickly Before others notice Go Inside, quickly! When will you wake up? When you were here none dared bully us Wake up, please! Nanchuan… Time to wash you In this heat sores grow easily So handsome Pity he’s paralyzed That vicious woman Stares at Father oddly Would she harm her husband? So this is my husband Jiang Nanchuan of House Jiang Mother Baby’s hungry There there, little one Don’t disturb Mother Granny will make noodles Want meat! Meat! Our family’s situation… Can’t afford Father’s medicine Where’s money for meat? Look how pale the children are Haven’t tasted meat in ages Before I failed to protect family Now here I won’t let kin suffer again Here comes little cutie Hey Wen Tang Your family can’t even afford a fishing net What’s the use of this bamboo pole? When it comes to fishing, you need proper fishing gear! Hahaha! That fish was huge! No way I’ll let her take advantage! This fish belongs to us! I saw it with my own eyes escape from our fishing net. Hmph! Trying to steal our fish? Not a chance! This stinging slap belongs to your family too! Keep it safe, don’t lose it again! You hit me! Sis-in-law, Whatever’s caught on my pole is mine now. You better watch out, don’t bump into this pole again! Wen Tang You little brat Dare to touch your sister-in-law? You’ve got some nerve! I’ll end you! And you! Pushed my Luan’er yesterday. You’ll pay for that. Are you possessed? Or just plain crazy? Strong hands, huh? Mark my words: From this day on, I protect Jiang Erlang’s family. Plot again, End up like this fish! Wen Tang You’re just the stray our second son took in. Don’t get cocky. Your mom chased from Wenjia to Jiangjia Bay, begging him to keep you. Out of his kindness. Look at your ugly face! Can’t you see? Since his illness, you beat kids and curse elders. Pure evil! The whole village knows your wickedness. Stop pretending! I allow you to call me sister-in-law out of courtesy. Enough nonsense! You slut! How many men have you slept with? When he wakes up, it’s your funeral! You think you’re so great? You’ll get what you deserve! Don’t make me act. Dragon’s fury unleashed! Snake in the gutter! Preying on the good? Brother, sister-in-law, Bullying children, making my mother-in-law kneel. Today this ‘wicked woman’ will teach you manners! Sis, I wronged you. Never again! Never! Please, I beg you. Dear sister, have mercy on us. Bitch, you’ll pay! Just wait! Damn it! If we snatch that fish for Brother Hai’s health… After all, he just gave me this hairpin. By the way, sis, your lover Liu Hai asked me to ask: Do you like his new gift? You! So this is why you flirt with that Liu guy! You two are… Husband, let me explain! Explain my ass! I’ll strangle you! I– Duoduo, don’t go! Mmm, smells like meat! Come eat, enough for all! Duoduo, stay! She’s lying again! That wicked stepmom isn’t being nice. She must have poisoned this fish! Trying to kill us all! But big brother, you’re drooling! Duoduo, listen to me. Have you forgotten how brother’s leg got crippled in the first place? Let go! Let go now! That day, I took Duoduo to get father’s medicine. She stole our money for makeup instead. That’s how my leg got ruined. The legends say the Demon General was lame since childhood. He personally executed his stepmother by slow slicing. Could it be… he’s the Demon General as a child, and I’m that stepmother? This poor boy… All this abuse and trauma explains why he became the Demon General. No! I need to change this fate! Hey Jiang Luan! I was wrong before. I promise you— I’ll find the best doctors to fix your leg! Don’t pat my head! Relax, the fish isn’t poisoned. My leg doesn’t matter, just heal my father. I swear I’ll find a way to save your father and fix your leg! Let’s live together peacefully and start over, okay? What trick are you pulling now? Give me a chance. Just trust me this once! Give me five! Seal our promise! Try any tricks, wicked woman, I’ll kill you when I grow up! Okay Heavens have mercy! Wen Tang finally accepted these two children! Mm. What’s that amazing smell? So delicious! You brat! Hey Wen Tang! He’s your eldest brother’s precious darling. Too spoiled to discipline. Brother Tong is the worst! Always bullying me! Wicked woman! Why didn’t you poison him? Should’ve killed him! My dad’s your dad’s elder brother! Your family owes us money! You should be my servants! Be my human horses! Swallow your pride! Here Coming to steal my fish and hit my kids? ! Since your parents won’t teach you, I’ll give you proper discipline! Mother! My precious baby! You! How do you control your daughter-in-law? ! I’m the head of this family! Xiaofeng is the matriarch! Jiang Tong is Jiang family’s firstborn heir! One fish means nothing! Ah! Enough talk! Now that masks are off, Pay up now. How much do we owe? Ten taels of silver. It’s actually a hundred taels! Xiaofeng I clearly borrowed ten taels Why’s it 100 taels now? Auntie Read it carefully This is the contract With your seal on it! Saw it clear? Compound interest Doubles every month Exactly 100 taels now Dalong We’re family! I can’t read How could you trick me? ! Business first, family second Pay up or shut up! Hahaha Best loan ever made This debt will keep growing They’ll never repay it Destined to slave For generations to come This is all my fault I shouldn’t have borrowed I’m begging you, auntie Can’t burden the kids Don’t kneel They’re heartless villains Kneeling won’t help Since that money Was for Nanchuan’s treatment He’s my husband I’ll repay the debt Big talk Can you afford to? Right now I… Can’t repay… No money? No attitude! Apologize to my son now! He’s just a child He’s stronger than me You call this a child? Strong? ! My Tong’s under 200 catties! He was bullied here today Come home, son I’ll cook you something special Sorry, young master Go rest at home Drink some hot… soup That’s more like it From now on You’ll use this Humble tone with us Understand? Wen Tang Even if possessed We can fix you Hahaha Hey In a few days I’ll collect 100 taels Time for dinner! Let’s go Dad, what’s… soup? No idea Probably something good Remember this Don’t ask stupid questions Don’t embarrass us before poor folks Move Why apologize to them? They’re the bullies! I was insulting them That “soup” meant crap I’ve got nothing else But backbone to spare That 100 tael debt You’re taking it all? Don’t worry, child Mom has her ways Sigh Another disastrous start Debt-ridden family Illiterate mother-in-law Bedridden husband Two out-of-school kids But this village has resources Mountains and rivers I’ll find a way to earn Careful! So many mushrooms here! So fresh! These are ingredients and spices Cheap fish in village But no cooking skills I’ll create new recipes Cook one fish ten ways It’ll definitely fetch a high price. Don’t touch me. Trying to trick a kid? She must be taking me to the mountains to dig a hole and bury me. Luan’er, Family should trust each other. Don’t think so poorly of your mother. Wicked woman! You really are coming after me. Witch! You’re really going to kill me! This evil shrew Even dug my grave in advance! Help! This must be a hunter’s trap. Hey Mister! Are you okay? Save me! Wait, I’ll get a rope to pull you up. So she didn’t want to harm me… I misunderstood her again. Thank you for saving me, miss. May I know your name? I’m Wen Tang. And you? I… Just a traveling herbalist. Can’t let anyone know I’m from the palace. Avoid unnecessary trouble. A palace herbalist… So you’re the royal physician! Luan’er’s leg might be saved! Miss… Miss! Brother Xiao, you’re a doctor? Know some basics. Miss, you… Got any food? Haven’t eaten in two days. I think I see stars… My house is downhill. Come be my guest. I’ll grill fish for you. Sounds perfect! Let’s go. This fish is crispy. No bones detected! My secret recipe. Bones carbonize when grilled. Crunchy texture. There’s more, Brother Xiao. Luan’er gathered these— —fresh mushrooms. All our best ingredients went into this soup. Duoduo didn’t get any! Why give it to him? ! Truly divine! Where’d you learn to cook? The 21st Century. The 21st Century. This tavern’s name— —is weird but catchy. Not bad, not bad. Can’t accept unwarranted favors. Your son’s leg— —has been lame a month? If untreated… …permanent disability. You… How’d you know the timing? ! This room reeks of illness. There’s another patient. Take me to them. He’s been comatose 11 months. Without treatment— —he’ll never wake. How do you— —know how long he’s been out? ! You…! How do you know everything? ! Found a miracle doctor! What a jackpot! Ms. Wen, Get the herbs according to this prescription. I have urgent matters and must return to the capital. Ms. Wen, Will you grill fish today as usual? Besides grilled fish, I can make smoked, fried, water-boiled, squirrel-shaped, stinky mandarin fish. Today, I’ll prepare Suzhou-style smoked fish. Sweet, savory, and crispy. By the way, Brother Xiao, What were you saying earlier? I… I said Xiao Yuan should report back to the capital. Don’t let gluttony delay your duties. I told you I have business But my life’s mission is to taste all delicacies under heaven. Brother Xiao, are you leaving Jiangjia Bay? This trivial matter isn’t important. I’ll change Jiang Luan’s dressing first. Call me when dinner’s ready. Hmm. To capture a man’s heart, you must first master his stomach. After changing your dressing, I’ll treat your father with acupuncture. Thank you, Uncle Xiao. Have some mung bean soup first, Brother Xiao. Thank you. This is extraordinary! What did you put in this soup? Mint syrup base with dried tangerine peel. Ms. Wen, No, Culinary Master Wen! Keep cooking these delicacies, and I, Xiao Yuan, will treat your family for free. Guaranteed cures. Deal? Deal. Deal. She seems genuinely changed. That shrew might become a decent mother? Hungry, Luan? Dinner’s almost ready. Mmm. Have you heard? The Jiang family hired some physician who’s been living there. Must’ve cost a fortune. Jiang Luan’s lame leg is nearly cured. Physician? That pretty-faced man is Wen Tang’s secret lover. Lover? Yes! They’re always making eyes at each other. Definitely an affair. Hmm. Don’t move. Wen Tang! I’ve finally caught your affair! Uncle Xiao, will father really wake up? With my medical skills as Xiao Yuan Even if the King of Hell demands souls I’ll forcibly keep them here A mere physician daring to snatch lives from Death himself I’ve got this bad habit of boasting through my teeth That was close—almost blew my cover No! Uncle Xiao’s a miracle worker If he says father will live then father WILL live When your father wakes remember our agreement We’ll let bygones be bygones and live properly Where’s Wen Tang and that pretty boy? Tell them to come out! Neighbors address your concerns to me Dr. Xiao is inside treating my son Please don’t disturb him Treatment? More like poisoning! That quack’s Wen Tang’s lover They pretend to treat Second Son Once he’s dead that pretty boy and that harlot Wen Tang will elope together You’re spewing lies! Baseless slander! Impossible! How’s it impossible? Look at your daughter-in-law Her husband’s been bedridden a year Obviously she’s restless Couldn’t stay chaste Who’re you calling a harlot? Village Chief! Chief! You must uphold Jiang family’s honor! Second Son’s not even cold yet This whore brought her lover to poison him! We’ll hold ancestral hall trial today to judge these adulterers Drown this shameless… Drown her in a pig cage! Jiangjia Bay has never tolerated women who break virtue Wen Tang shamed our reputation Strip her clothes and sink her in the pond! Drown the harlot! Sink the witch! Drowning! Sinking! Just beat this woman to death! I’ll do it! SILENCE! Wen Tang, any last words? Is this Jiangjia Bay’s justice? Where are the authorities? You’re the adulteress sleeping with Liu Hai projecting your sins onto others As village chief you let these gossips twist the truth with no evidence! Slandering an honest physician as some homewrecker This is disgraceful! Do none of you need doctors yourselves? Never call physicians? Where’s the doctor? Bring him out for interrogation! Yes! Let’s confront him! If he fears confrontation he’s guilty! Ms. Wen I’m at critical stage removing needles No disturbances allowed Or your husband dies forever All efforts wasted Anyone entering this door today leaves horizontal Who dares to cross this threshold today will be carried out on a stretcher! Well, well, little wretch Protecting your lover, are you? Don’t be afraid, everyone! Charge together! Attack now! You go! You! Pushing others to be cannon fodder while cowering like a turtle Well played, Jiang Dalang Today’s the perfect day This chopper here cut rice stalks trimmed wheat hoed corn harvested leeks but never split a skull Come here, let it taste human blood! Revive Jiang Nanchuan Only then can I clear my name The children are watching me I won’t retreat an inch Jiang Tong, what’re you doing? Guarding the front door’s pointless There’s a back entrance! Release my sister! Aiya! My eldest son’s so impressive Wen Tang, drop that chopper Or I’ll make Jiang Tong snuff out this little girl Jiang Dalang Using your own niece to threaten your stepmother Proves you don’t care about her life You’re not here to catch lovers You’re using the healer as pretext to wipe out our family of five and steal our ancestral home Exactly! What uncle would use his niece’s life to threaten an outsider? Right! Could it be we’ve wronged Wen Tang? No, no! That’s not true! Jiang Dalang We came to support you not help you murder! Stop Jiang Tong now! Tong, stop this! Let go now! Three more needles left Hold on, Madam Wen! How dare you insult my parents! I’ll beat her dead! Nan Chuan, you’re awake! Finally! I’m finally part of this family. I have a family again. Time to settle the score. Wen Tang… This is bad. So bad! He’s blaming me for that witch’s crimes! Chuan’er! What are you doing? ! Mother, I’m here. Don’t fear him. Let go of her! Let go now! Nan Chuan, quite the showman! How dare you hit your wife in front of the village! Release her! Now! Why are they fighting? Neighbors… This is my home, not a theater. Please leave. Erlang… We’re all concerned about that fake doctor poisoning you. Yes Now that you’re awake, let’s all disperse. Chief! Don’t leave! We need your judgment! Mediate for us! What judgment? ! You failed to frame me, got exposed instead, and now want the chief to bend the law? You— Chief! See this shrew— her venomous tongue— punish her! Even the wisest judge can’t settle family quarrels. Sort it yourselves. Let’s go. Chief! Chief! Don’t go! Chief! Ugh! This— This is— Unbelievable. Brother! Glad you’re awake. A wicked wife brings three generations’ ruin. While you were unconscious, she bullied the kids and aunt mercilessly! Pathetic She’s vicious and promiscuous! Second Brother, you absolutely cannot be soft-hearted— otherwise, you won’t be able to control her. Beat her hard—regularly! Beat her senseless! We’ll leave you to handle this. Go! Out! Halt! Halt! Why is she mimicking me? Suspicious… Who’d copy you? ! Madman! Anything else? Brother, you were right earlier. But Jiang Tong just now— hit Duoduo with a stick. I saw everything. Apologize to my daughter! Expect me to apologize? Not a chance! Misunderstanding— Just a misunderstanding. Our Tong-er was worried about his uncle. That’s why he grabbed the stick— to scare this schemer. That strike was ruthless. He meant to kill! Had I not stopped him— Duoduo would be dead! Don’t listen to outsiders! You trust her over me? I’m your eldest brother! Ah! Chuan’er! Let it go. He’s still your brother. Dad, Jiang Tong bullies Duoduo daily— steals our food too! Weak-willed Grandma Useless father— These poor kids got such guardians. What misfortune! Hey, you! What’re you doing? I’m Duoduo’s mother. Today I demand justice! If Jiang Tong won’t apologize— No one leaves! Wen Tang! Bickering with a child? Have you no shame? Your child’s precious— mine isn’t? We love her just the same! My son is your father’s nephew! I’ll teach you a lesson! You— Control your woman! The elders said— I’m Jiang family’s heir! I can bully these brats— as I please! Defy me and get beaten! Dare scold me, shrew? I’ll ram you dead! Hey! Agh! Murderer! Witch! Killer! My child! My head’s still attached! I survived! The first strike is a warning. The second won’t be as gentle. Jiang Tong Will you apologize? You madwoman! Wen Tang You’re either possessed or gone insane! I’ve been reborn once. Heaven showed mercy, granting me new life. This time, I’ll act without restraint, never swallow insults again. Better go mad than bottle it up! I’ll take down everyone! Jiang Tong I’ll count to three. Mom… Don’t worry, she wouldn’t dare! Wen Tang Enough, Tong’er. That boy’s always been wild and stubborn, defying discipline. one I’m sorry, Duoduo. Sorry, Jiang Luan. As your elder brother, I failed to protect you, care for you, but bullied you daily, stole your food. Forgive me. I was wrong. See this, Mother? No such thing as ‘born wild’! Defiance deserves beating! One beating or two will teach him manners! Wen Tang Wen Tang Mother You said we’d count to three, but skipped straight from one. When we get home, I’ll find you a martial arts tutor. My poor baby got so scared. Enough, let’s go. Tang’er Mother Wen Tang Mother Wen Tang Duoduo…Duoduo! Mother, I’m here! Are you okay, Duoduo? Not hurt? I’m fine. Mother was amazing! She chased all the bad guys away! She actually protected Duoduo and stood up for us. From now on I’ll stop calling her wicked stepmother. No one else can call her that either. Luan’er, come here. Luan’er Duoduo Father’s unreliable, but we still have Mother. We’ll embrace single parenting. I thought after he woke up he’d protect the children and this family. Never expected he’d only bully his own. Should’ve remarried first before reviving him. We’d invite him to the wedding. She’s got ulterior motives. Putting on this motherly act just because I’m awake. Such hypocrisy. Trying to win me over? Who do you think you are? Expecting me to please you? Narcissistic guys are so cringey. I… Never said that. Strange, How’s he reading my thoughts? Chuan’er You’ve been unconscious for days. Must be hungry? I’ll make you some porridge. Mother What’s this awful stuff? Leftover fish scraps from yesterday. Cooked into congee. Mother, It reeks of fish and rot. Completely inedible. Did Wen Tang force this on you? Wen Tang! You dare feed my mother this trash? We have plenty of fish and meat at home. Yet Mother insists on making porridge with fish scraps. You’re creating hardship where none exists. Couldn’t stop her. How dare you talk nonsense! These past days, though I was unconscious, I could still hear the voices around me. You humiliated Mother, beat Luan’er, and sold Duoduo to traffickers! Utterly despicable! Chuan’er, this is all a misunderstanding. Wen Tang has never mistreated us. Mother, Your constant forbearance towards her only invited her abuse. I married her out of pity when the children needed care. That’s the only reason. There’s no marital bond between us whatsoever. Let’s end this now. Divorce this wicked woman! Jiang Nanchuan! Mother? Why address me so formally? Kneel before me! Swear to me now— Promise you’ll properly build a life with Wen Tang, devote yourself to raising our children, and never speak of divorce again! But Mother… She… Earlier, had she not guarded the door and risked her life, my trembling hand would’ve ended yours! Ms. Wen, Your husband repays kindness with cruelty. Just replace him. Brew a potion to poison him. The world is unjust, but I’m accustomed to it. Heaven shows no mercy either— turning a blind eye to good souls’ suffering. Dr. Xiao, I’ll never forget your life-saving grace. A doctor’s compassion Since even you speak in her defense, there must be circumstances I’ve missed. Wen Tang, Nanchuan— I apologize to you now. It’s fine. I don’t hold grudges. At least not yet. I still need to stay here until I earn enough to leave. When that day comes, even if you don’t divorce me, I’ll divorce you myself! We can’t throw this away. I’ll eat something filling. Our family still has so much debt to repay. We have to be frugal. Mom! This fish offal stinks! In our fishing village, no one would even pick this up. How can we eat this? Wait! You mean fish innards are thrown away unused? Fish markets and taverns discard them like trash. No one wants them. If we collect them now, they’ll give them for free. They’ll even thank you! These low-cost ingredients have high profit margins. Why isn’t anyone using them? Rich folks look down on them, poor folks hate the stench. I, Xiao Yuan, have traveled nationwide and tasted countless delicacies. But I’ve never eaten this! True, the fishy smell is overpowering. They’re tricky to prepare and look unappealing. But I’ve got an idea. What plan? Wait for me. I’ll get something. Ms. Wen! Where did this beer come from? I’ve been here long but never smelled alcohol. I chilled it in the well. This is ice-cold beer. It’s time to treat our guest properly. Wait a moment. Let me help you. In my past life, to cure my mother’s illness, I worked a dozen jobs. Cooked in kitchens, sold meals. I know how to make this tasty. Crush mountain peppers, add beer and salt to marinate the stench. Start with cold water, cook in hot water. Stir-fry then simmer. Reduce with beer at the end. Plate it up. I’ll tend the fire. This pot looks familiar. Right! It’s Dad’s medicine stone pot. Stone Pot Fish Offal. Appetizing, goes with three rice bowls! Let me taste. Disgusting! Disgusting. How could it be bad? I removed the fishy taste, enhanced the freshness, and balanced the richness. It shouldn’t taste like this. Luan’er, Your mother cooked this meal herself. Stop being picky. Let me taste it. Slight bitterness at first, then subtle sweetness. Leaves a lingering fragrance. Marvelous! Absolutely marvelous! Brother Xiao, Are you fawning over my stepmother to impress her? Not sour or spicy, though uses more oil and ingredients. But fresh and savory. Dad, have you lost your sense of taste? Let me try again. Minors shouldn’t drink alcohol. If you think it’s bad, it’s because I added half a pound of beer. Kids shouldn’t touch this. Oh. This dish is low-cost, high-profit. I shouldn’t keep it to ourselves. We should sell it to taverns. Sell! Crispy cakes! Freshly baked crispy cakes! Want some crispy cakes? Wait here for a moment. Watch your sister. Mhm. Crispy cakes! Big crispy cakes! Crispy cakes for sale! Come take a look! Crispy cakes! Crispy cakes here! Freshly baked crispy cakes! That… Come check this out! She’s not tricking us again, is she? Couldn’t sell the beer, now she’s selling us instead. Brother, You don’t need to doubt mother. She’s much better now. Must stay cautious. Or my leg will end up like this Why did you follow? To protect you little dummy. I’m not dumb! Mother isn’t selling me, she’s buying me treats. I’m ignoring you. Young lady, Please come in. Waiter, I need to see your manager. You’ll have to wait. Manager Song is busy giving a lecture. Our rival restaurant Juxian Pavilion keeps rolling out new dishes. Our regular customers are being stolen away. Manager, I have a new dish wanna try it? I don’t believe this. What good can come from fish scraps? This disgusting stuff Not even dogs would eat. If this could become a signature dish… Then I’d be worse than a dog! If word gets out, where would I hide my face? Fresh and tender, smooth and fragrant. Even better than fish meat. Waiter! Take this dish to the private room. Let our main investor Master Lu taste it. Hey! Move along now. Ms. Wen, sit here. Let’s discuss this properly. I’ll take this deal. Name your price. I’ll buy the recipe. Secret recipes aren’t for sale. How about this… A fixed price: five hundred taels. This could cover three years of expenses. I can give it for free, What? ! How would you profit then? The recipe is free, but the fish scraps must come exclusively from me. Five coppers per jin. Also… You’ll need my homebrewed beer. Where’s my beer? Manager! Trouble! That wine I took from the table I gave to Master Lu… What about the wine? He took one sip and flew into rage! Demanded to know the brewer. Ordered me to bring the brewer! Oh no, this is bad! Master Lu… is our Gourmet House’s major shareholder! If he withdraws funds in anger, this place goes under! Quick, bring our finest wine! The best we have. I’ll personally apologize to Master Lu. Yes! I brewed that wine. Perhaps I should apologize. Ms. Wen… Stay out of this trouble. Master Lu is the town’s richest man, wealthy and influential. If he learns an outsider brewed it, and a woman at that… he’ll be furious! Our deal… We’ll discuss later. Another time! I’ll apologize myself. Maybe Master Lu will save my dignity. Manager, the wine! Hurry! Let’s go! Business is tough. Came for nothing. Lost ten coppers too. You little brat! A beggar who doesn’t beg right! Daring to steal my pastry? I didn’t steal it! I’m no beggar! Stop that! Let go! Bullshit! My pastries have been missing a few each month Who else but you would do this? Look at the crumbs on your sister’s face! Still lying? It’s clearly you thieves! We just picked up crumbs others dropped! Stop fake crying! People will think I’m bullying kids! Lying through your teeth Only dogs eat food off the ground! Are you dogs? We’re not dogs! Not dogs… Just thieves! Exactly! Admit it! Motherless brat! You’re the one to talk! Don’t insult my mom! You crippled little sweetheart Dare to hit me? I’ll end you! Stop this now! Old hag! Is your mouth connected to your ass? Full of filthy words! Stinking breath! Crying over a few pastries? What? Have your daddy’s ashes in them? Who’s this stinky woman? I’m catching thieves here! None of your business! The biggest thief here is you, you rat! Bullying kids when parents are gone Picking on the weak! Got any shame? Oh Now I get it You’re family, right? Then pay up! Listen here My missing pastries this month are worth 100 taels! 100 taels! That’s ten oxen worth of silver! Your flimsy dough is thinner than your face! Drill a hole in that face could fit a kingdom! You could build a kingdom in there! You— You what? ‘You’ who? You’re the real monster here! I— I’m serving justice! Listen up— I’m scolding you to save your life! You save me? Get over here! Mark my words— My Luan’er will become a god of slaughter. He holds grudges like no other. Cross him once, he’ll massacre cities. Piss him off, and your ancestors get dug up and whipped! Steal a needle young, steal gold when grown. If he becomes a killer, That’s on you for neglecting his upbringing! Let me tell you— This ‘sweet child’ will grow up to rot in prison! Last time I’ll say it— I didn’t steal your pastries! These two little thieves stole stuff and won’t confess! Their guardian’s no better than them! Exactly! Where’s your proof that my kid stole anything? No evidence? I’ll sue you for slander! Now I get it— The rotten apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. Thief crying ‘stop thief’! You’ve mastered that game. Why’s this town got petty thieves like you? Can’t afford pastries? Steal them? Got caught stealing, just apologize and pay up! But you keep denying it! Birds of a feather! Want proof? Here— Take this knife. Cut his belly open! Check if there’s pastry inside. That’s your evidence! Mother… Well Let’s check his stomach contents then. Simplest way to settle this. I’ll do it myself! Stay put! She’s really doing it? ! She wants to do it herself I’ll gouge out your eyeballs so you can see if my child’s belly really has anything inside Can we talk like decent people? Yes yes yes yes yes! Every word out of your mouth is ‘thief!’ Will you apologize to my child? Yes! Apology! Yes yes yes! My child’s mouth only smells of fish offal Your stinky pastry I wouldn’t take it even if it were free! Luan’er, Duoduo Did you two see anyone near the pastry stall earlier? Did you notice anything suspicious? No I was watching you enter the tavern and didn’t notice others around Luan’er You’re still young Don’t carry all burdens alone If I hadn’t stopped you earlier you’d really have cut open your belly to prove your innocence? ! Next time you meet people this unreasonable let me handle it for you Understand? See brother? Mama will protect her baby! If I handle it myself at least I’ll know the truth When villagers bullied us before me and Duoduo you always sided with others beat us with canes Never believed in us That won’t happen again Baby’s hungry! Want meat buns! Luan’er can’t walk well We need these 10 coins for donkey cart Thought we could earn some money Be good, Duoduo Meat buns aren’t tasty Brother will pick fruits for you later Hmm… Meat buns bad Fruits yummy! Oh ho! All that shouting earlier Thought you were some important official Turns out you’re just paupers! No wonder stole my pastries but can’t pay! Broke, huh? No money? Then sell yourself! A shrew like her couldn’t sell herself Only a blind man would want her! Exactly! Listen here If you don’t pay for my pastries today you’re not escaping! Even if you can run that crippled pup of yours won’t get away! Master Lu is coming! Master Lu despises thieves most You stole in public, you shrew! Wait till Master Lu deals with you! Oh no, oh dear Master Lu Freshly baked, piping hot. You must be Ms. Wen. Yes! That’s her! Oh! Now I remember. Master Lu Is this the woman who stole your money too? She’s a habitual thief! She swiped my pastries and didn’t pay! Stop barking, mutt! You’ll scare my honored guest! This lady’s her patron? Patron? Pa-patron! Ms. Wen That wine earlier was your own brew? Excellent! The Emperor’s crowning the heir and ordering tribute wines All regions must send their finest to the capital. Our Magistrate’s been worried our humble county has no worthy brew. You’ve saved me from this urgent dilemma! So you want to present my wine to the capital? Precisely! Does this nectar have a name? If you insist, I’ll name it now. Snow Brave the World! Bold name, but a bit lengthy. How about Xuehua Jingniang? Perfect! Ten taels as deposit. I’ll send you home shortly. All your Xuehua Jingniang I’ll take every drop. 2,000 coins per peck. Half to the capital, half for my cellar. Two thousand coins! Our whole family’s monthly expenses are 400 coins! Converted to RMB, that’s ¥500 per jin! We’ll be rich! Master Lu Such generosity! Though currently, another matter needs settling. I was blind to your greatness! Ms. Wen, please forgive this fool. These pastries are on the house! Complimentary! You opportunistic rat! I wouldn’t take these crumbs if you paid me! Master Lu, Madam Wen, my child took the pastries. I’m sorry. My kid has a sweet tooth. He took your pastries without asking. So it was this rascal who took them! Mom told me to buy pastries, but I spent the money on candy figurines and cookies. I’m really sorry. The pastries were piping hot and burnt my hand! No worries. These pastries cost barely anything. Kids will be kids. Take them, eat all you want! Here, take it. Apologize to my child! I apologize. I accept your apology. Though our clothes are worn, they’re clean. We may be poor, but we have dignity. I was wrong. Let me give you ten pastries. That’s unnecessary. They’re just pastries. We can afford our own. Don’t make accusations without proof. If a grown man got wrongly accused like this, he might smash your stall! Alright everyone, move along. We’ve got money now! Let’s go buy some meat buns! What’s wrong, Luan? Thank you, Mother. We’re family! No need for thanks. Let’s go. Ms. Wen, I’ll take all your wine from now on. Deliver it straight to my tavern. And our fish offal deal will be finalized soon. We’ll be formal partners. Deal. Ms. Wen, I’m returning to the capital for the crown prince inauguration. Not sure when I’ll return. Could you save two jars of your wine for me? If not for the Emperor’s order, I wouldn’t leave this place. Seems this royal physician is still the Emperor’s favorite. Fine. I’ll trade you a treasure This jade pendant… Take it as a token. It’s quite beautiful. I’ll save you two jars then. Much appreciated. Brother Xiao, If things go south in the capital, just come back. We can feed you here. No! Can’t you wish me well? Master Lu says my wine could make waves in the capital! You’ll get plenty then. Fine. Take care now. You little schemer, when did you learn brewing? And cozying up to Master Lu! An old dog can’t learn new tricks. Don’t get cocky! Ugh, I don’t care! I want big meat buns! Get up! No matter what, I want it! I’m getting those meat buns! I said I want meat buns! Hubby, figure something out! If we get that brewing recipe, this business she can run, we can too! She’s guarding against us like thieves. She’ll never share the recipe. Enough! Target Auntie. She’s easily swayed. Scare her a bit, she’ll cough up the recipe. Fine. Get up already. Oh Auntie, My stomach hurts. Come cook at our place for me, please? Chuan’er, I’ll go back with her. You go home first. What’s that mountain stuff? Just firewood from the hills. Let’s go. Hot Baozi for you! Where’s Mom? Sister-in-law’s sick, Mom went to cook. Papa! Try the yummy meat Baozi! Baby ate three, My tummy’s gonna burst! Look! Mama bought Baby new clothes! Wow! Smells good, huh? So good! Wen Tang’s been here so long, finally accepts the kids. Treat her right. Tell me: What’s Wen Tang’s secret brewing recipe? Aunt I’m the legitimate heir of the Jiang family. When my parents passed away, they asked you to look after me. How many years has it been and you’re already hogging everything? I… I shouldn’t say, Tian Cuilan, don’t test my patience. We show you respect by calling you Aunt. Without that respect, you’re just a Jiang family lapdog. Instead of obeying us, you’re colluding with your daughter-in-law. Aunt, really, we’re supposed to be family. Give me the recipe. Once I profit, I’ll take good care of your children. Don’t forget what Wen Tang is capable of. She’ll sell off your grandchildren eventually. Listen well— True feelings deserve true feelings. Wen Tang is my daughter-in-law. I’m her mother now. If she makes mistakes, I’ll guide her to change. If she struggles as a stepmother, I’ll teach her. I believe I can earn her true heart. If there’s nothing else, I’ll take my leave. You can’t leave! Let me warn you— If Wen Tang and Nanchuan come here, they won’t be merciful. Fine! Even an old woman dares challenge me now! This is all your fault! Useless! You’ve worked hard, dear. Have some water. Thank you. She never thanks me. Being so formal today… She must be angry. Wonder if tonight she’ll still cling to me, insisting to share my bed. What’s wrong, dear? It’s nothing. Just choked on some water. Mom, why were you gone so long? They want your secret brewing recipe. They target the weak and fear the strong. They went after you instead of me. Did you tell them? I may not be capable, but I know what’s important. Don’t worry. Tangtang I’ll never reveal your secret. What did you call me? Tangtang This is all my fault. You called me Tangtang Thought it sounded more affectionate. If you don’t like it, I won’t call you that again. No, it’s fine. It’s just that… My mother used to call me that. I’ll handle the rest. You should all get some rest. Go rest now. Uh… I’ll go to the mountain tomorrow to gather hops. No, you have other tasks tomorrow. Strange. Before I passed out, she’d pounce on me nightly like a starving wolf. I had to resist fiercely. Now she’s keeping her distance. Stop, stop! No more indecent thoughts! I don’t want to hear it! My dear The blooming period of hops only lasts about ten days I must harvest them quickly Don’t worry I’ll prepare a feast for your return The treasure they collected yesterday must relate to brewing They’re hiding it from me Let’s follow and investigate Today I’ll uncover their secret brewing recipe Let’s go Why’s he fishing here? Weren’t we hunting treasure? Wen Tang was right Big brother failed to get the recipe from Mother Now he’ll target me My wife’s become shrewd We’re wasting our time Auntie and these two distrust us completely Wen Tang and Jiang Luan are our sworn enemies How can we get the recipe? Have you forgotten they have a young daughter? You mean Duoduo? She’s just a child She’s young easily frightened and terrible at lying Wen Tang can make adults keep secrets But a child she can’t control Come means come, go means go Nod yes, shake no I’m I, you’re you Greet others with hello Duoduo, come here Have some candy You’re not tricking me again, are you? No tricks this time Come here Come Duoduo No lying allowed Liars get eaten by tigers Tell Auntie What beer hops do your family use for brewing? Speak now! Or Uncle will beat you! I know your parents forbid it But you must confess Or face consequences What nonsense What does this mean? Mother’s nursery rhyme I don’t understand But it must be important You villain! Mother! Found the hops! Oh my goodness, son! You’re amazing! They harvest from hills So this is it! I’ll strip every last one They have Meishanfang I’ll push Juxiange! This little fox… Can outsmart this hunter? By the way, son This child mentioned Some brewing secret? What? ! Nod yes, shake no Her mother taught this Huh? What’s wrong, son? Mother, run! Oh no! Wait! Nephew! Dearest nephew! Calm down! Release my sister! This… this is… Right here! Duoduo, you okay? Don’t cry, you scared me! Let’s go home Jiang The Jiang family’s beer is now sold to our Gourmet Inn 50 coins cheaper than Delicacy House Yes, absolutely. Genuine quality Fair prices for all Mom, we’re off to make deliveries. Come back soon, Luan’er. Is your leg really healed? Don’t worry, Grandma. I can help now. Duoduo Listen to Grandma at home. If anyone bullies you, don’t be scared. I’ll deal with them when I’m back. Mm, I won’t be scared. It’s raining outside. Come back early. Don’t worry, Mom. Ah! Watch your step, dear! I’m fine, really. Why did she used to cling to me so desperately? I found her annoying, but now she’s so distant and cold towards me. It feels… unsettling. Oh Jiang Nanchuan, you’re just being petty. Ms. Wen Since our stone pot fish stew became the signature dish, the local market’s fish offal price rose to 10 coins per pound. But no one else can replicate our recipe. We Jiangjiawan fishers keep our word – five coins per pound as agreed, no price hikes. Our fresh fish are all caught by my husband. Right, dear? I know. Madam Wen’s fish are plump and fresh, the offal rich and juicy. From now on, you’ll be our sole supplier. Fifteen coins per pound? That works! I’ll throw in a free lemongrass grilled fish recipe. Perfect! This new dish will be a hit. Deal. Ms. Wen And this gentleman? My husband, Jiang Erlang. Master Lu, just as my wife said – you’re as distinguished as she described. He looks familiar… Have we met in the capital? Jiang Nanchuan’s been to the capital? Master Lu, a pleasure to finally meet you. Just as my wife described, you are truly distinguished. Erlang Jiang, have you ever been to the capital? I have not. You look quite familiar, like an old acquaintance from the capital. Ah, my dear wife, Wasn’t Jiang Luan supposed to be at the market buying buckwheat noodles? Why isn’t he back yet? Ms. Wen! I’m right here. A dozen guests at my establishment drank your Snowflake Brew, and now they’re all poisoned! Manager Zhao from Feast Hall, this Snowflake Brew is our Gourmet House’s secret recipe! How did you get it? Guests are fainting and vomiting. You’ll answer for this today! I never sold you our ale. There must be some terrible misunderstanding. I agreed to buy from you because you undercut Gourmet House by 50 coins per barrel! But now I see your true colors! Unbelievable! You heartless woman! Profiting from both sides while committing this atrocity! Madam Wen, you sold to him 50 coins cheaper? How could you betray us? Please, let me explain! Lives are at stake! No more excuses! I’ve alerted the authorities. The constables are coming. Come quietly! Let’s discuss this calmly. Keep your hands off my wife! You claim your guests drank my Snowflake Brew and got poisoned? But I’ve never done business with Feast Hall! Where did your ale come from? Two Jiangs delivered that ale! And Madam Wen’s husband’s clan is Jiang! The proof is undeniable! The Jiangs? Brother… and sister-in-law! I’m rich! I’m rich! What if Second Brother finds out? What will we do then? He’s a skilled warrior with a fiery temper. So what if he’s skilled? Served for over a decade but never got promoted. Brought back two bastards, probably dumped by some woman. This spineless coward is nothing to fear. Heh heh, Right, he’s just a concubine’s son. I’m Jiang Clan’s legitimate heir! Hee hee hee… From today onward, Snowflake Brew is our Jiang family secret! If Wen Tang dares challenge me, I’ll destroy her distillery. Jiang Dalang and Li Xiaofeng! Your tavern sold poisoned wine! You’re coming to the yamen. What? ! Take the evidence. Constable Li, prisoners secured. The magistrate is ill today. The clerk will preside. State your names for the court. The facts are established. Enough formalities! They sold counterfeit wine and poisoned people! How could you betray your conscience? Counterfeit? ! You little wretch! How dare you slander me! I… Li Xiaofeng! I respected you as sister-in-law, but you push too far! Keep harassing my wife, and I’ll retaliate. Ugh! A brother-in-law attacking his elder sister-in-law! No respect for seniority! Disregarding family hierarchy! The days are unbearable! Unbearable, I tell you! After your elder brother and I lent you money for treatment, we revived an ungrateful wretch! You had malicious intentions! 10 taels borrowed, 100 demanded back! Even bandits aren’t this greedy! And you’re no saint either! The second sister broke Luan’er’s leg for silver coins, and even sold Duoduo! Her wicked deeds are countless! You protect this viper, How can you face the children and their birth mother? Order in the court! You’re here for litigation, not petty squabbles! Both claim to be Snowflake Brew, but Immortal Hall’s turned rancid. Delicacy Pavilion’s remains fresh. Ladies, who can explain this? What’s the reason? Hops produce lupulin that inhibits microbes, while roasted malt’s melanoidins prevent oxidation. Your brewery must’ve added something unclean to the brew! You’re lying! Our recipes are identical, even the ingredients match! If there’s flaws, it’s your recipe’s fault! Then tell me: What ingredients did you use? Barley and hops. Where’d you get hops? Foraged from mountains. Should I admit I stole from her stock? Aha! Then specify exactly which mountain you foraged from. Constable Li, please investigate the site. The mountains stretch endlessly, how could I pinpoint? Exactly! Your vagueness proves you can’t identify real hops! You stole samples from my backyard, then traced them to the mountains! Nonsense! Pure fabrication! What you stole wasn’t hops, but your father’s grave weeds! What’s this about? This man’s truly shameless! Such filial impiety! Recently, my husband visited ancestral graves. The geomancer warned thorny vines on graves must be removed to protect descendants. They should be burned by kin. Thus my husband brought the grave weeds back for you to burn, but in the basket… I didn’t realize… Indeed, those were his brother’s grave weeds unburned. Wait, sister-in-law, how did you know they were there? I… didn’t. The grass on my father’s grave This can’t be happening! Big Brother wants the brewing secret? You could’ve just asked me. We’re blood brothers. Why resort to theft? Don’t listen to her nonsense! You’d trust an outsider over your own brother? I’m your elder brother! I trusted you. But now… You’ve let me down. Jiang Dalang forced the secret from your mother today. He didn’t get it, and won’t give up easily. Watch your children closely. He’s my brother. Don’t be so suspicious. Let’s see if your beloved brother will compromise when profits are at stake. Fine. Let’s test this. Found it! This is the one. Mother’s mentioned hops. You planted Jiang Tong in our home to steal Snowflake Brew’s secret. But accidentally took the grave grass my husband brought from the mountain. You schemed dirty! Grave grass resembles hops. If you’d visited your father’s grave more, you’d know the difference. You stole ingredients and secrets Then framed my wife for this mess! So! You two’ve been selling me counterfeit wine! Manager Zhao! You saw my tavern’s success in the liquor trade, got blinded by greed If you’d been cautious, you’d spot fakes! The truth is clear now. The Jiangs sold poisoned wine. Caused customer poisoning. Constable Li, arrest them! Men! Take Wen Tang into custody. What’s the meaning of this? Wen Tang, do you know your crime? What crime have I committed? Brewing and selling alcohol privately violates imperial decree. According to our dynasty’s law, unlicensed alcohol dealers shall receive flogging penalty. Forty lashes! Constable Li, Madam Wen’s Snowflake Brew has applied for official approval. We’re awaiting authorization. Awaiting means it’s not approved yet. Forty lashes first, as a warning to others. Wen Tang, Constable Li’s Li… It’s my Li, Li Xiaofeng! He’s my uncle! Surprised? I brewed the wine. I’ll take the punishment. Don’t be foolish! You just recovered. Who’ll care for Luan’er and Duoduo? You’re my wife. I must protect you. Step back. Don’t get hurt. Whip him forty times! Break his skin open! He’ll be bedridden for six months. Then I’ll finish him off! Brew some soul-sending poison. Jiang family’s ancestral house will all be mine! Farewell, Jiang Lao’er. You beasts! Don’t touch my husband! Not a single scratch! How dare you! Guards! Arrest them! Papa! Papa! Don’t hit my father! Luan’er! Why are you here? You brewed the wine! Why frame my father? You wicked woman! As evil as Auntie! Anyone who harmed my father is evil. When I grow up, I’ll slaughter every last one of you. This brat’s nothing but trouble. One grievance and he wants blood. Ugh… This old man’s stomach troubles… Require immediate relief. Court is adjourned! Apologies for the delay. State your cases civilly. Keep emotions in check. Constable Li, proceed. You little rat! Get out of my way! Or I’ll beat you too! Look out! Halt! Constable Li, What I sold Meishan House was never alcohol! This jade’s pattern signifies royalty. Could she be nobility? Then what was it? Manager Song, produce our signed contract. This contract explicitly states in black and white: What we sold Meishan House was seasoning for stone pot fish. Branded as Black Powder Roast Dip and Hydrogen Peroxide Malt Juice. Black powder what-juice? This is ridiculous! Madam Wen insisted on this contract anticipating exactly this situation. Correct. Our Snowflake Brew is a malt-fermented fruit beverage. Merely culinary seasoning. Some patrons enjoy… bold flavors. They drink seasoning. Sister-in-law, show your Juxian Pavilion contract. Let everyone examine it. Does it say ‘alcohol’? Constable! She sold liquor illegally. The penalty is forty lashes! That whip from the officer almost struck my son’s face! Constable Li, renowned for your integrity surely won’t shield Li Xiaofeng, right? Constable Li, are you shielding her? Uh, no! Not at all. I can’t afford to offend the palace people. Sorry, Xiaofeng. The convicted Li Xiaofeng shall receive 40 lashes. Constable Li—no! Cousin! Forty lashes will be the death of me! Jiang Dalang, say something! You were part of this scheme! You even took your share! Enough shouting! A few lashes will heal in months. Jiang Dalang! Have you no conscience? I’ve sacrificed everything for this family! And this is how you repay me? Take criminal Jiang Dalang to the dungeons. Sentencing to follow. Ugh! This was all your lousy idea! Oh No! Dalang will be released in a few days. We’re husband and wife—bound together! You don’t care if I live or die? You think you’ll escape this? Seems to me you’re scheming to kill me after your plans failed! Do you plan to run off with Liu Hai? Live happily ever after? Ah! I’ll bite you to death! I spit on your ancestors! You heartless cur! You Jiang men only know how to feast on women’s suffering! Shameless wretches! No shame at all! Silence! Enough bickering! 20 lashes each. One more word, add 10 more lashes! Drag them out for punishment! Cousin! Cousin! Save me, cousin! Father? It’s nothing. The wheels of justice turn, and karma always strikes. So she planned this all along. She wasn’t targeting Father? Yet I called her a wicked woman… Jiang Dalang! Even your brother protects his wife! You’re worthless! You cursed woman! You’ve ruined me! Constable Li, the flogging aside, my dozen poisoned customers and my tavern’s losses— Silence! Throw both in the dungeons! Judgment comes later. Cousin! Cousin, save me! Let me go! Luan, do you see now? There are many situations where you shouldn’t corner yourself. Extreme retaliation Many conflicts don’t require us to kill everyone outright. Let’s consider another approach. How about drawing turtles on villains’ faces instead? Wouldn’t that work? Hmm. Let me check your feet, child. You ran all the way here? Mhm. Your leg just recovered and your feet are blistered again. I’m sorry for scolding you earlier. No need to apologize, Luan. The way you protected your father was truly heroic. I believe someday you’ll see me as family too, and protect me the same way. Yes. Ah… What a false alarm that was. Ms. Wen, our Xuehua Jingniang has gained high praise at the capital’s banquets. Now we just need the Wine Commissioner’s final verdict. If we make the official registry, sales will flourish for sure. Thank you, Master Song. I’ll take my leave now. Ms. Wen, wait! Please stay a moment! My leg is broken! Sir, please rise. Three cups to thank you, kind sir! Three cups? He’s the Imperial Wine Commissioner! Master Three Cups! Wine Commissioner… The imperial alcohol authority… Come with me. I’ll treat your injuries. They did a solid job with this splint. Did you study medicine? I have a sworn brother who’s skilled in medicine. Grandpa, have some water. Good girl. What’s your name? My name is Jiang Duoduo. But you can call me Bao Bao. Let me give you a back rub. Will you be my grandpa? What about your real grandpa? I don’t have a grandpa. Oh, my dear child! So well-behaved! How about a back rub for me? His leg isn’t that badly hurt. Why the plaster cast? The cast keeps him from running. Hmm? I meant at his age, bones get brittle. Better safe than sorry. I’ll check the wine cellar first. Mountains at our back, water before us. Perfect for brewing wine. Smells amazing! Fish and chips? Fried chicken legs? Too greasy. Not at my age. Not even a little? Neighbor’s kids are drooling! What’s that noise? Mom? Dad? Where are you? I’m starving! Child, Your parents are at the magistrate’s. Back in a few days. Eat with us meanwhile. No way! Mom says you’re mean! You only serve weed porridge! Who wants that? Nonsense! Smell this – Juicy chicken legs! Don’t touch me! Master, Let me handle this. Want a chicken leg? Yes! Fifty coins. But I’m broke. I’ll give you a chicken loan. Just thumbprint here. Pay when parents return. Deal? Yes! Your mother borrowed ten taels from the Jiang family. Compounded into a hundred taels. When Li Xiaofeng and Jiang Dalang returned from the magistrate’s office, not only was the debt cleared, they now owe us another hundred taels. My Lady, With your “Chicken Drumstick Loans,” “Spicy Snack Loans,” and “French Fry Loans” to swindle Jiang Tong for 100 taels. Husband, Must you be so crude? This isn’t swindling! Low grain prices hurt farmers. Every coin I’ve earned is rightfully mine. Exactly! Madam Jiang, How dare you demand 100 taels? Ms. Wen works from dawn to dusk in the kitchen. Look! Each fried piece here— how many burns must she endure to perfect these? Her fried delicacies are famed across ten leagues. Even good wine needs promotion! With my breadcrumb coating, I could fry dung to fragrance. Vulgar! Utterly vulgar! After long observation, I believe this Lord Sanjue may be none other than the Imperial Brewmaster. His legendary Liuxia wine is renowned empire-wide. I think he came specifically to investigate you. Be careful. Husband, Have you been to the capital? How do you know his identity? I visited once. Was it crowded? Fun? Bustling? Like the Qingming Scroll? I must see it! I’ll take you there someday. Miserable luck! Fished all night, only caught water ghoul worms. What are those? Hard shells all over Not an ounce of meat I wanted to catch more fish to trade in town for rice, flour and pork What’s this water demon bug? These are just crawfish! Aren’t these water demon bugs? They’re edible and delicious! Great Let me peel it for you Watch the pincers! Pounded crawfish meat becomes springy and tender Crush fish with blade’s back Remove large bones Chop into paste with two knives Add seasonings Make fish balls with half Carve pear slices into cups Coat fish paste with starch Pan-fry until golden Drizzle with sauce All done! Mom, can we really eat this? These water demon bugs… I tried boiling some when starving But they just made me hungrier When digesting protein you need fat intake Luan You’re too skinny That’s why poor folks starve eating these Luckily we’re not poor anymore Protein Fat No poverty can stop education Time to send you both to school Try this What’s that smell? So fragrant! Auntie What’s this dish? Spicy crawfish! Give me a bowl Crawfish Loans Wife Master Lu is here Ms. Wen I came to express gratitude The Wine Minister’s new rankings Our Xuehua Jingniang made top three new brews Delicious! This is absolutely divine! These spicy crayfish must be added to our Meishanfang’s menu immediately. Elder brother, the baby wants to eat crayfish. Be good, Duoduo. Mother is negotiating business. When this deal is finalized, you’ll have all the delicacies you desire. Master Lu’s Xuehua Jingniang will make our brewery overflow with orders. Madam Wen’s partnership terms need reconsideration. I demand technology shareholding. Technical investment! All dishes developed by Ms. Wen shall grant her 10% profit as dividends. Long-term partners should prosper together. Don’t you agree? I accept your tech shares proposal. The Brewmaster’s vision is truly remarkable. What Brewmaster? I know no such person. I came to Jiangjia Bay to escape recognition. My identity remains secret. No need for complications. Don’t leave yet! Taste my new creation— Roasted Chestnut Fish Tofu! Tech shares for Pear Meatball Soup! Tech shares Mother, no work experience goes wasted. I remember all the brewery knowledge: Malt becomes whiskey when distilled, aged 10 years makes Chivas. Wine becomes brandy through distillation, decade-aged turns to XO. The possibilities are endless! Why are you smiling, mother-in-law? It’s nothing. I’ll check the malt stores. On your knees! You reckless wastrel! You good-for-nothing! We just spent days in the county jail! How dare you owe over a hundred taels? But Auntie’s cooking is amazing! Enough! Calling her Auntie now? Do you know what she did to your parents? Grown adults still hitting kids? Have you no shame? Wen Tang! Tong’er! You tricked him! You could sell him out and he’d count your coins! Auntie feeds me daily! Without her, I’d have starved! Shut your mouth! You know she made us sell fake wine! We lost everything! My reputation is ruined! I can’t face the neighbors! You call her Auntie? I’ll show you an auntie! She’s so kind to Jiang Luan and Duoduo and she’s just a stepmother! I’m your blood child, yet you treat me like this! I don’t want you as my mother! Tong’er! I’m sorry! Mother… She’s cast a spell on you! You just lost your temper Enough! Get out of here before I make you! Jiangs want you gone! Wen Tang! You targeted my son! Turned him against me! A wise man knows when to retreat! J-just you wait! This isn’t over! Mark my words! Wen Tang! You stole my son! Now I’ll show no mercy! Fire! Emergency! There’s a fire! Luan and Duoduo! Fire! Put it out! Let’s go! Move quickly! Sir Sanjue Didn’t you break your leg? How are you running so fast? Hurry up! Fire! There’s a fire! Quick! Put it out! Fire’s spreading! Put out the fire! Firefighters! We need help! Faster! The flames are massive! It’s beyond control! Jiang Nanchuan’s silver I know where it’s hidden Wen Tang’s made a fortune We’ll split it half and half No sneaking extra shares! You three, follow me Quick! Mom, I was sound asleep! Why drag me here? We’re splitting the money here? Let’s move further away Feng’er Why bring Tong here? Dad, why are you here too? I… Tong’er Jiang Dalang isn’t your real father Your biological father Is me Liu Hai What nonsense are you talking? Don’t you believe me? Ask Li Xiaofeng if you don’t believe it! Impossible! No way! Xiaofeng! He’s spewing lies! I don’t trust a single word! Don’t worry, Brother Liu Hai, we’ve got the money now. We can finally escape with our child! Are you insane? How dare you talk like that? Tong’er, come to your father. You’ve grown sturdier than me. Jiang Dalang! Over a decade ago I drifted from place to place, homeless and desperate. I had to marry off Xiaofeng who was pregnant to you, making you raise my son! Now I, Liu Hai, am the leader of Qingfeng Stronghold! Today I’m taking Tong’er with me to the mountains! Come, Tong’er! My money chest is missing! The footprints are chaotic. These thieves must’ve snuck in during the chaos. This was planned! The arsonists are likely the same group! Move out! Check your eldest brother’s house first. Your brother actually fled! Though he’s greedy and reckless, he always took pride as Jiang’s legitimate eldest son. He wouldn’t abandon the village. But your sister-in-law’s different. She’s had a lover for years! Follow me! With these messy tracks, can we catch them? Trust me. Mom I won’t go up the mountain I want to go home Take me back to Jiangjiawan Tong’er We’re going up this mountain to live a better life and rule as bandit leader As for Jiangjiawan we won’t go back there You heartless brutes! How dare you! Grab that cash box now! Filthy bandits! This is all my money! You won’t take a penny! Beat them! Hit them! You animals! You’ll die wretched deaths! Stop! Stop beating my father! Tong’er Be good and listen to your mother That Jiang Dalang isn’t your real father Mother What are you saying? Liu Hai is your true father You say my father’s a bandit? Bandits aren’t so bad He as long as he treats us right Look at him so mighty so commanding a true hero through and through Now that Jiang Dalang has no money or skills can’t even handle his half-brother I’ve despised him for years Boss Jiang Dalang Thanks for leading the way Stealing your own brother’s silver to gift to me Extra thanks for raising my son so well these fifteen years Li Xiaofeng You little temptress I actually betrayed my brother for your sake I hate myself! Four Five Husband. When the fight starts, I’ll take the five on the left. You take the five on the left. I’ll handle them all. Hold on. There’s more to see. This is heavy. Must be full of silver. The villagers say Wen Tang works with Squire Lu selling fish and wine. She’s got over a thousand taels saved. Soon, it’ll all be ours. We? This is MY money! None of your business! You… What’s that supposed to mean? Because you’ve lost your youth and looks. I’ve slept with you for over a decade. Disgusting. The child comes with me. You stay in Jiangjia Bay. Tong’er! Tong’er! No, Liu Hai! Don’t go! You can’t abandon me! I’ve been faithful to you. I bore you a son! If you leave me here, they’ll kill me! If they drown me in the pond, I’ll die! Get lost! Your fate means nothing to me. With my status now, I can have any woman I want. Brothers, let’s go. No! Liu Hai, please don’t! Get away! Mother! Father! Mother, save me! Help! Tong’er! Let’s move out, brothers! Liu Hai! You heartless beast! May lightning strike you dead! Boss, how much did we make? Let me count. We’re rich! Take it. How does it feel? Enjoying the taste of wealth? That cash box of mine was carefully chosen – edged and heavy enough to hurt when dropped on feet. How did you know we’d get burglars? Prepared traps in advance? Smart rabbits have backups. Who keeps cash under beds? Our silver’s all converted to gold bars hidden in funeral urns and buried in graves. Want the money? Pay respects to Jiang ancestors. Wow. Impressive. Attention mountain bandits! You’re surrounded. Surrender now. You schemer! Setting traps for me? Kill them all! Eliminate them! Attack! Being cool is hard, but luckily I’m genuinely hot. My wife’s truly awesome. Second brother… Big brother was misled by others. I wronged you. Mom Master What I said earlier was just to fool those bandits Father Get lost, you little bastard! You’re not even my real son little brat Tomorrow I’ll have the village chief open the hall to drown you in the pond Drown this little brat in the pond Drown them We can’t keep this bandit’s bastard either Right! Kill them both! Kill them both! Stop! Stop this! I beg you spare me and my child Tong’er Tong’er is Dalang’s true son I lied to the bandits You little schemer think I’m a fool? I won’t fall for your tricks Li Xiaofeng You conspired with bandits violated womanly virtues You’ve shamed Jiangjiawan beyond redemption Today we’ll drown you in the pond and beat your bastard child thrice This whelp’s been causing trouble and stirring chaos in the village A menace to all Now we know he’s a bandit’s spawn He’s a curse upon us Can’t let him live Beat him to death. Enough! You— Drown me instead This is all my fault Please spare my child! He’s just a boy! Wait! Fellow villagers, The child is innocent. Spare his life. Let him live. Who’ll raise him? Brother Da, Will you take him? The bandit’s little spawn, Not my responsibility. Elder Brother, You raised him yourself. He respects you as his own father. Don’t act in anger now. You’ll regret this decision when night falls. Spare this brat’s life, but how can we swallow this humiliation? Jiangjiawan ancestors have never endured such shame. How shall we avenge this? Death penalty spared, hard labor remains. Let him reform through labor. What’s ‘reform through labor’? Look at his sturdy build. He’s strong enough for work. Let him do all the heavy and dirty chores. Our oxen and livestock need rest. Well? This plan works! An acceptable solution. What about Li Xiaofeng? She doesn’t deserve reform. Sink her in the pond. Guards, proceed! Mother! Tong’er! Mother! Tong’er! Tong’er! Li Xiaofeng’s sins run deep. Thrown in the river and swept away instantly. Stop wailing! Your mother ruined this family. Take him away. Make him grind at the mill. Follow me. I know you’re merciful. Take this. Go save her. I know you have a merciful heart, my lady. Take this chance and go save her. Thank you for saving my son. Wen Tang, I was ungrateful before, always opposing you. Now I’ve lost everything. Live a proper life, and never return. If you meet bandits or villagers, no one will save you again. Until your child comes of age, I’ll care for them. But for their reputation, you should vanish completely. Never imagined the ones I’d rely on would be you. I wasted my youth drifting through life, betrayed others and was betrayed. What are you doing? From this day on, I’ll become a nun, praying by candlelight daily to bless your family. May my son grow up safely. Tell me, am I being too naive by showing mercy? What’s ‘naive’? Evil prospers while good deeds go unrewarded. I forgive wrongdoers and spare the wicked. Had you not been here today, Luan’er, Duoduo and I might have been separated forever. Then tell me, did she deserve death? Adultery, theft, slander – all despicable acts, but not capital crimes. The villagers resorted to drowning punishment because society oppresses women. Don’t you agree, husband? I’m no scholar, but I know this truth – whatever you do, I’ll stand by you. Grandmother! I’ve worked all day, my hands are bleeding. Serves you right. Hey! Watch your tongue, Luan’er! Luan’er, what are you talking about? Hurry and eat. We have work tomorrow. Never thought Xiao Feng would be like this. Poor Dalan was deceived for years. He might act rashly in anger. Brother Tong, stop crying. Mother made this malt candy herself. It’s for you. Take it, take it all! Here’s my candy too. A man should be strong. Stop crying. So this is why… That arrogant Jiang Tong… …lost his family. How tragic. I’m lucky to have Father, Grandma and sister, and Mother. I’m so fortunate. Now that Luan’er shows empathy, he won’t massacre cities anymore. Maybe I’ll escape execution too. Are you cooking? I’m brewing wine. Orange peel fermentation. The official permit’s approved! Now I can brew legally. I’ll brew more, earn more money. With Master’s guidance, I can work openly without restraint! Hey. Who’s your master? You’ve secretly taught me so much. Master, accept my bow. Hey! Enough flattery. Did you already… …know my true identity? Hey. Enough with the flattery. Did you already figure out my true identity? Families should stay united, neighbors should trust each other. Master, you hid your identity for a special reason. Wen Tang understands. Since the Crown Prince’s enthronement, the capital’s become dangerous. Murky schemes brew everywhere. I fled here for refuge. Why choose my house? I’ve crafted wine for decades. In Jiangjiawan, only your brewery can rival my Liuxia liquor. If I get caught in royal conflicts, please carry on my legacy. Make Liuxia liquor immortal. Master, accept my bow. I have premium oak barrels that aged fine Liuxia liquor. They’ll help ferment your Xuehua Jingniang I’ll arrange their delivery. Oak barrels? Liuxia’s strong liquor needs oak for flavor, aiding secondary fermentation. Thus, my Xuehua Jingniang gets You’re quite the expert, aren’t you? Master, try my special cocktail. Share your wisdom. Chicken feathers? Citrus peel is bad enough, but chicken feathers? ! Next you’ll add chicken droppings! Master, today let’s drink till dawn! Fine, fine. Dear. Since Master Lu bought Fresh Pavilion, our seafood orders must double. Guess how much we earned today. Husband! You’re back? Drunk in broad daylight? Wife You’ve worked tirelessly day and night Please get some rest Husband I’m sorry What are you sorry for? The truth is I’m not from this world I know But since you call me your husband You’ll forever be my beloved wife May peace reign over our land and our family reunions last forever The Crown Prince has been framed and stripped of his title I will find the retired Marquis Wu’an to restore order to the court Wait for me You’re awake Who’s knocking? Who’s there? Who’s there? Xiao Yuan Brother Xiao How did you get so badly injured? Help me… Wife Seems like someone’s after him. You tend to him first. I’ll erase the footprints and bloodstains. The blood trail left behind I’ve cleaned it all up. How is he? Worked all night Stitched the wounds Gave him medicine. Let’s hope he pulls through. Eldest Imperial Brother Marquis of Wu’an He called for Marquis Wu’an. This Xiao Yuan… What’s his true identity? But he’s just a royal physician, right? Kept crying ‘Eldest Brother’ all night Who in the palace is he really? I’ll ask Master about this. Ugh… Easy! Careful now! Slow down! Master, do you know Xiao Yuan? Fourth Highness Why is the Fourth Prince here? And so gravely wounded… Fourth Prince Fourth Prince This is the Fourth Prince, Mu Yuanxiao. He’s been frail since childhood and lived secluded in the remote Valley of Blossoms for medical rehabilitation. He rarely visits the palace. How could the reclusive Fourth Prince suffer such grave injuries? This indicates… turmoil within the palace! I’ve served the imperial court for over thirty years, yet saw him merely a few times. No way— I didn’t see him today either. Master, where are you going? I must disappear for a few days. With the Fourth Prince severely wounded, the palace is surely in chaos. Don’t let them discover I’m here— or we’ll both face grave danger. Aiya, I must flee! You… I returned to the palace for the Crown Prince’s enthronement ceremony. But then… Zhenbei Wang allied with northern tribes to rebel! The Emperor is under house arrest, the Crown Prince hangs by a thread, Where are the military officers? All courageous officials and generals are now in mortal peril. Our only hope lies with the retired Marquis Wu’an. Only he can defeat Zhenbei Wang and repel the northern tribes. But where could they be? The Emperor is in danger— The capital needs righteous reforms and loyal ministers to restore order! No! I’ll fight my way back to court to avenge my father! Wait— You’re lucky to be alive. Forget vengeance— let’s treat your wounds first. What’s this? It’s high-purity alcohol distilled for sterilization. It disinfects sutured wounds. Tang’er, your medical skills have improved. Stop praising—this hurts! If you can’t handle this pain, how will you seek vengeance? Control your claws— stop fumbling around! He cried so terribly just now. Mom pricked him with a needle again. She’s sewing up his wound. It seems… She’s already being friendly to us. Brother Xiao. Please, just have some water. Your Highness, have some wonton soup. Take it away. I can’t eat. I added… Bamboo shoots and mountain mushrooms. And wolfberry leaves. The dumpling skin has white plum… And sandalwood powder. Wen Tang. I have no appetite right now. After what happened in the palace… My brother and father… Their fate is unknown. And now we can’t find Marquis Wu’an. I can’t return to the capital. Outsiders are ruining our land… And you’re ruining… Your own body. You’re holding my hand. Wen Tang. Don’t go. Watch your eyes. If you stare at my wife like that again… I’ll twist your head off. What’s wrong with you? A real man stands tall. If you can’t find Marquis Wu’an… You won’t return to the capital? Just sighing here? If the world collapses… The Xia has millions of men. There will be millions of Marquis Wu’an. Eat. Return to the capital with me when you heal. I’ll go with you. Husband, he’s the Fourth Prince. You’re so fierce with him… Aren’t you afraid of execution? Back when I fought for his father… To conquer the land… He didn’t even know… I… How did I let that slip? Husband, you’ve been to war? I was a soldier for a few years. Tangtang. Can’t you tell? This silly boy is jealous. Jealous? He’s jealous because of me? He almost took the Fourth Prince’s head… Twisted it off… And used it as a stool. Could it be that he… Has fallen for me? Though we’ve always addressed each other as husband and wife, I never actually considered becoming a real couple. He’s family and a comrade to me. I assumed he felt the same. After all, he was reluctant when we first married. But looking at him now, he’s actually quite handsome. You were staring at me. Don’t worry, I won’t look for free. I’ll take responsibility. How exactly? You’re my husband. I’ll naturally care for you. When we save enough, I’ll build us a grand house, buy a carriage, And then? Send our children to school. They’ll become top scholars. What else? I’ll earn our keep, you stay charming. Why are you laughing? Next you’ll probably say about bearing the Wen family’s heir. These promises are what husbands tell wives. Rest assured, I’ll give you a good life. House, carriage, children’s education, scholarly honors – You just focus on regaining your health. Tangtang Could you cook me some noodles? Brother Xiao Your leg has healed enough to walk. It’s a medical miracle! Let me handle this with virtue. Brother Xiao In the eyes of the world you’re the Fourth Prince. But in my heart you’ll always be Brother Xiao. Tangtang You’ve been so kind to me. So… Do you think I fancy you? If not… Don’t get the wrong idea. You’re like a sister to me. I did all this to provoke that mute fellow and make him confront his true feelings. Before I return to the capital I want to ensure you’re properly entrusted to him. Elder brother Jiang Nanchuan is trustworthy. My journey to the capital may keep us apart indefinitely. But remember this, sister Should this old Jinling friend fall silent in letters Dear sister Wen Tang When wild grasses cover my tomb remember your brother with a plum tree planted and three cups of wine. Till we meet again. You’re not cured yet! Where do you think you’re going? Auntie Let me help you. Tong’er Please look after Brother Xiao. I’ll gather capital news in town. Assess the situation to stop that fool’s suicide mission. Don’t worry, Auntie I’ll take good care of him. Jiang Tong, you sweet thing After all these years show me such filial piety? Wen Tang You’ve ruined me financially and destroyed my family. You want domestic bliss? Never! The Assistant Manager is back. Coming through! Wen Tang, you little rascal! I’ll show you who’s boss! Huh? What’s this filth doing here? Who let you barge in? The restaurant’s been booked exclusively for VIPs today. No entry for commoners! Why does Wen Tang get in while I’m shut out? She’s the Assistant Manager! How dare you compare yourself? Shoo! Shoo! A notice has been posted! There’s a notice over there! Go check it out! Come quick! Follow me! Keep up! What’s going on here? Let me see. Wanted: Xiao Si Rebellion against authority. Reward: 1,000 taels for capture. Wow! A thousand taels! That’s a fortune! If we catch this guy, we’ll be rich overnight! Move aside! Xiao Si… His face looks familiar. Where have I seen him? Hey! What are you doing? Jiang Dalang, how dare you! Using illegal torture methods! You drowned my niece, Xiao Feng! Give Xiao Feng back! Attack! Hit them! Stop! Stop fighting! I’ve seen Xiao Si! Halt! I’ve seen Xiao Yuan on the wanted list Xiao Si You’ve seen Xiao Si? Hmm… Where is he? If I tell you, will I be safe? Hey! This is a merit Why would you be implicated? What about the 1,000 tael reward? We’ll split it fifty-fifty Oh… His name is Xiao Yuan Wen Tang’s sworn brother Wen Tang is at Mei Shan Fang right now She’s connected to the palace after all A thousand taels… Hey! Wen Tang has substantial assets When we confiscate her property, my share better be included Get lost. Hey! What do you mean? I’ve always hated scum like you opportunistic traitors who betray your own kin Get out! My blade cuts off rat’s heads Scram! Ms. Wen This is an honored guest from the capital Master Cao Minister Cao This Xuehua Chenniang is my latest creation Served in crystal goblets As summer wanes and autumn dawns When the air grows arid This brew alleviates chest congestion And restores lost appetite May Minister Cao grace us with his judgment We Northern Guardians at the frontier Have sampled countless rare brews Let me test this vintage If it proves false The brewer loses her head The Northern Prince conspires with barbarians The Emperor’s imprisoned The Crown Prince lies wounded Ms. Wen You’re normally composed Why this uncharacteristic clumsiness? Minister Cao’s regal aura Fills this humble commoner with awe I dare not meet your gaze A momentary lapse in decorum I beg your forgiveness This smooth talker Shows unexpected discernment Why is the Northern Prince here? I must warn Brother Xiao Truly exceptional wine! Bring more! This man Xiao Si by name A fugitive from the capital I’ve pursued him to this place Squire Lu Ms. Wen Have you seen this criminal? We have not This Xiao Si impersonated the Fourth Prince in the capital and committed treason. Memorize his appearance. If you spot him, report to me immediately. Yes! They say a decade ago, the renowned Marquis Wu’an retired to this area. The Fourth Prince fled here to recruit him. I’ll crush your entire network. I must report this! Master Cao, I’ve new brews in my cellar Let me fetch them for you. Ms. Wen, please stay. How dare you! Master Cao is present. How dare you barge in? Show some respect! Kill them. Yes! Wait! Hear me, Master Cao! I know Xiao Si’s whereabouts. Oh? Where is he? Ms. Wen, you have an adopted brother named Xiao Yuan. What nonsense! I don’t know him. Stop pretending! Xiao Yuan is Xiao Si! Your own brother-in-law told me himself! Jiang’s a liar! Mad dog barking! He’s been resentful and framed me repeatedly. His words are worthless. Why panic then? False accusations! He sold fake wine last time! Have you forgotten? That’s true… Master Cao, Constable Li’s being tricked and framed me. This disturbs your meal. Please expel him. Hold on! I have evidence. What evidence? If memory serves, you carry Xiao Yuan’s jade. What jade pendant? Are you colluding with Jiang Dalang? How much did he pay you? To frame me? If you don’t hand over the pendant peacefully… I’ll search you myself. Or perhaps you’d prefer torture? Men and women shouldn’t touch. Though you’re a constable, how dare you use force before Master Cao? What if I insist? You lack a warrant. I can resist. Warrant? The emperor’s far away. Imperial power stops here. This town answers to me. You’re just a woman. Dare you oppose me? How dare you hit me, wench! I’ll chop off your hand! Drawing weapons before royalty? You’re asking for death! He’s too fast! A true master. I can’t win. Your Highness. What prince? You just declared you rule this town. When Prince Zhenbei ascends the throne, you’ll be eliminated. So you’re the ruthless Prince of Zhenbei. Thank you, Your Highness, for saving me. I’ll fetch wine immediately. Halt! Halt! Strip her clothes completely. Search every inch. Find Xiao Si’s jade pendant. Your Highness. This… This is improper. Get out of my way! Master Lu. Lord Lu is my business mentor. You may humiliate me, but don’t hinder my profits. Ah! Release me, or I’ll dismember your closest aides. You know martial arts? I underestimated you. A pity that a loyal dog’s life means nothing to this prince. Ruthless. Merciless. Ms. Wen. Let’s speak plainly. When I was in the capital, I tasted your Xuehua Jingniang. Truly exceptional. Reveal the Fourth Prince’s hideout, and when I claim the throne, you’ll be Master Brewer. Do we have a deal? Very well. Come closer. I’ll tell you. Wife, I’m late. This place is dangerous. Leave now! Since Prince Zhenbei wants to inspect your jade pendant let’s show it to him graciously without reservations. You know he’s the Northern Warlord Hmm. He’s slaughtered thousands and plans rebellion. Aren’t you afraid? That insignificant warlord is beneath my notice. Yet your protective devotion warms my heart. It seems your husband holds special status too. So you are the Fourth Prince Reveal his whereabouts and I’ll spare your lives. Otherwise- Wait! Any last words? Since you treasure rare objects I’ve brought something special worthy of your attention. The military tiger tally! You… You’re the legendary general who retired from fame—Marquis Wu’an! Marquis Wu’an? The nobleman Xiao Yuan seeks is actually you? Why keep this secret from me? My love, I left power struggles behind to live peacefully with you in pastoral serenity. But palace schemes now threaten our peace. This secret would’ve remained buried forever. My true identity means less than being your devoted husband. Prince Zhenbei, you stand accused of treason and frightening my wife. This outrage demands justice! Such arrogance. How many troops do you command? Just myself. Guards! I have three hundred elite soldiers here. Even with your martial prowess, what can a lone man achieve? The mighty Marquis Wu’an, hiding in this godforsaken backwater playing farmer. How laughable that the Fourth Prince seeks your help to protect the capital. You can’t even save yourself. Enough talk. My lady, this will get bloody. Close your eyes and count to ten. one two three Four Five Six Seven Eight Nine Ten How is this possible? Impossible! No way! The emperor made me Marquis Wu’an not for leading armies of 100,000 to victory, but for winning battles alone. Military prowess brings peace. Was that line cool enough? Do I look dashing like this? My lady, do you approve? Fine. I admit he looked impressive. Wait! Don’t go! Madam, The rebels issued a warrant. I have to go. Won’t endanger you. Tangtang made me promise to keep watch over you. You can’t leave. Northern Prince, he’s volatile and merciless in slaughter. If he finds this place, the whole village will perish. I must go. North- Northern Prince! I’ll fight you to the death! How could this be? The tiger tally— Marquis Wu’an’s token! Could you be… I’ll accompany you to the capital. Agreed. Stay safe on the journey. Understood. Nanchuan, take these for the road. The capital is far, and the journey long. Take these locust blossom cakes— they’ll sustain you. In the Northern Prince, I glimpse the shadow of General Jiang Luan, the Reaper. Eat. Our family’s cakes are better than any bakery’s. A happy childhood heals for life, a wounded one scars forever. What horrors did he endure in his youth to become so bloodthirsty? He revels in carnage. Yet I believe Luan’er will never walk that dark path. Once you leave this time who knows when you’ll return? Winter is coming soon. I should have prepared more winter clothes for you. I thought we had more time… My dear, Once I escort Prince Zhenbei back to the capital and repel the northern invaders, I’ll return swiftly. Go with peace of mind. I’ll care for your mother and our children. When you return, we’ll build a grand house, buy land and carriages. Stop the cart. I need to speak with you. Your eyes are red, can’t bear to part with me? Not at all! Just dust in my eyes. Speak your mind freely. Duoduo and Luan’er aren’t my blood children. They’re orphans from fallen comrades. I’ve treated them as my own flesh and blood. I’ve never taken another wife. You’re my only true companion. Wait for me. My dear, we must depart now. Mother, will Father come back? Of course! Not only will he return, he’ll bring sweets for you. Don’t fear, Duoduo. Brother will join the army too, and protect you always. Aunt! Something terrible! What’s wrong? Grandma was robbed! By whom? My father. Give it back to me. I chopped this firewood. What’s yours or mine? Second Brother went to war. I’m the head of this family. Wait until he dies. All your family’s property is mine. You’re talking nonsense! You damn bastard! Second Brother is your own blood. Nanchuan is blessed with great fortune. He will return. Bitch, I’ll kill you! Stop it! Jiang Dalang Looking for a beating again? Screw you! I… You brat dared to bite me! Today I’ll… teach you a lesson! When Second Brother was here, I tolerated you. Now that he’s gone, you dare oppose me? Funny you say that, When Erlang was around, I showed you mercy. Now that he’s gone, you still defy me? You dare hit me with a stick? ! I’m your elder brother-in-law! That’s more like it. After all, I’m your elder brother-in-law. Second Brother is gone. I’m the head of the family now. A firewood stick is too kind for you. Let me show you the power of a woman! You’re a monster. Meeting you was my worst luck. Pathetic! How dare you bully my family? Mom’s so strong! Don’t worry. Dad’s not here. I’ll support this family like he did. Fishing, chopping firewood, I can do it all. Luan’er, I know you’re capable, but you have a mother. Our family of five— elders, women, and children— we support each other and grow together. You don’t have to shoulder everything alone. Let me tell you a story. Story time! Long ago, the gods brought children to Earth. The little ones were scared. They asked the gods, There’s so much injustice here, distrust, and evil. What should we do? What can we do? Mom… The gods replied, We’re giving each child a guardian fairy. She’ll protect you your whole life. How do we find our fairy? The gods answered, When you need help, just shout— Mom! Your fairy will appear. Luan’er, at school, listen to the teacher. Got it. Hurry to school now. Don’t be late. Here. I carved this wooden hairpin. When I become successful, I’ll buy you pretty things. It’s already looking great, Luan’er. Our Luan’er has such skillful hands. I’m heading out. Be careful on the road. It’s been three months already. Second Brother might never return. You pond scum… just won’t stop croaking. If you ask me, Who sits on the throne we’re all just trading fish for rice. Why meddle with court affairs? Jiang Dalang, when I treated you as human, you should’ve put on a decent act. Don’t make me treat you like a pest. Ungrateful! Can’t recognize kindness. I came with news. What news? I saw Auntie on the mountain fall into a ditch. Her leg’s broken! It was horrible! Mother-in-law! Mother-in-law! Mother-in-law! Tingtang! Don’t mind me! Go save Duoduo! What happened to Duoduo? Dalang pushed me down while I was foraging chestnuts. He wants to lure you up then sell Duoduo to traffickers! I’ll take you home first, then rescue Duoduo. Tingtang, this useless mother burdens you again. What did you say? In this age Everyone calls their mothers by that title But you just said “Mom” instead Tangtang It’s my fault For holding you back Neighbors Our daughter-in-law Would never sell her child Wen Tang is my daughter-in-law I’m her mother now Rest assured Tangtang I’ll keep your secret Safe with me What did you call me? Thought it sounded more affectionate If you don’t like it I won’t call you that again If she can’t be a good stepmother I’ll make her learn The world is vast Full of opportunities You’re not Tian Cuilan You’re my real mom, right? No wonder I couldn’t hear Your inner thoughts Because you’re like me Also crossed into this story Mom Don’t worry In this life I’ll Protect my family Let’s go Grandma Grandma, what’s wrong? I’m fine. Where’s Duoduo? And her mother? Your uncle sold Duoduo… …to child traffickers. Your mother went to save her. Old woman. Not bad. No. Why are you scaring the kid? You’re even crueler than I am. This kid’s got a lot on his mind. I want to give him a push. Oh. Dad… Mom… Duoduo… Dad… Mom… Duoduo… Dad… Mom… Duoduo… Mom… Duoduo… Where are you? When you want… …the fairy sister… …just shout… “Mom!” And the fairy sister will appear. Mom… Where are you? If I just call for Mom… …you’ll appear. Right? Mom… Mom, please come back! I’ll never call you a shrew again. I’ll obey you. I won’t be naughty anymore. Brother, brother! Dad… Mom… Duoduo… General. The enemy has captured several cities. Let’s massacre the city! Make an example of them! Massacre the city? I’m not interested. I just want to go home… …and eat Mom’s locust cakes. Happy New Year. ‘I’ what? Got nothing to say? You’re under arrest.

Reborn as the Evil Stepmother? Boxing Queen Tames the War God General & Seduces His Hidden Marquis!

🍿🍿Hi, honey! Welcome to MiniDrama Curator!
A theater for lovers of short dramas! Whether it’s a sweet heartwarming love story or a thrilling revenge saga, it’s all here!
📢 English subtitles
Make it easy for you to enjoy every scene!
Subscribe now and let the short drama binge begin!

————————————————————————————————–
Playlist👉🔥【ENGSUB】Forbidden Love https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1KGgGyV9RQx0j_lz9HpTzAeC9TA7nZkp&si=xI_NYF92K3705iIK
Playlist👉🔥【ENGSUB】Baby-nado: Twirling into Your Feed 👶 https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1KGgGyV9RQws5U79z7O0abQb9LY5lW5b
Playlist👉🔥【ENGSUB】High-quality short dramas❤：https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1KGgGyV9RQxzZrZ7KRxdYrN_A1y_Gnhr&si=oPYHIN1yC2y2Xs-_
Playlist👉🔥【ENGSUB】Rise & Rule: Underdog’s Empire Built from Revenge! 💥💸👑：https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1KGgGyV9RQy6qGRE4sN0B3n53f-id0Iw&si=EgiKKdUkNOnHalX-
Playlist👉🔥【ENGSUB】Red Robes, Imperial Thrones: Chronicles of Power & Defiance👑：https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1KGgGyV9RQxcyLolPVsPstk9uXlucDQR

#shortdrama #minidrama #film #romantic #stroy #tvshow #shorts #work #hilarious #aftereffects #trending #viralvideo #editanime #edit #revenge #cheat #relationship #shortdrama #romance #cheating #KoreanDrama #KoreanLoverStory #Kdrama #korean #ChineseLoveStory #Cdrama #chinese#sweetlovemelody #sweetlove #lovestory #firstlove #kiss #chinesedrama #couple #drama #romanticlove #kissstory #chinesedramaengsub #lovescenes #dramaschinese #tv #romantic #boss #romanticchinesedrama #chineseromance #topchinesedrama #chinesetelevisiondramas #contractmarriage#husbandandwife #bestromanticchinesedrama #ceolovestory #CEO #cinderella #Love #City #overlord