Chapter 1285: Back to Shaoding Village
He was cunning, but he possessed a clear sense of purpose.
The Zhao Family stood no chance against Zhao Shu; Zhao Ye didn’t even dare contemplate seeking vengeance.
Should his mother truly have committed such an act, Zhao Shu’s forgiveness seemed an unlikely outcome.
Could the Zhao Family compel Zhao Shu to address the matter?
Later, Zhao Ye privately inquired of Ms. Qin, but she staunchly refused to confess. Her denials only fueled Zhao Ye’s growing apprehension.
Zhao Ye had always been self-centered, consumed by the fear that Zhao Shu would retaliate. In his paranoia, he pilfered the few valuable items left by Zhao Mu, absconded with over 2,000 liang from the household, and vanished with his wife and children.
Zhao Mu’s fury resulted in illness, further enfeebling him.
Ms. Qin fretted over Zhao Shu’s ominous countenance and chilling interrogations, haunted by the thought of his potential return. Nightmares plagued her, and tranquility remained elusive.
Then, one fateful day, Zhao Shu appeared at their doorstep.
Qiao Xuan had no ties to Yangzhou and arrived in Hangzhou by late March.
In Hangzhou, Ms. Zheng’s loyal servants assisted Zhao Shu in managing his business, with Aunt Qing in attendance.
Aunt Qing and Qiao Xuan shared a familiar rapport, and Zhao Shu had sent her a letter requesting her gracious treatment. Aunt Qing, diligent as ever, ensured everything was well-prepared.
Qiao Xuan explored the floral fields and Zhao Shu’s tea plantation, both thriving with vitality.
Perfume and tea processing workshops were under construction, along with housing for the workers.
Once Qiao Xuan delivered the tools, everything would fall into place.
Amidst the expansive floral field, an array of flowers sprawled out – roses, jasmine, sweet osmanthus, lilies, and cloves. Each section was meticulously arranged, with extensive plantings of vanilla for various supplementary purposes.
Zhao Shu had sourced these seedlings from a reliable place. They exhibited strength and well-balanced growth, all of exceptional quality. Their tender, green leaves held a captivating allure.
In a few months’ time, lilies, Chinese roses, jasmines, and roses would burst into full bloom. Sweet osmanthus trees abounded in Hangzhou, guaranteeing a ready supply of this fragrant blossom. Perfume production could commence in the latter half of the year.
Initial output might be modest, but it offered the workers an excellent opportunity to hone their skills.
Qiao Xuan, after a thorough inspection, used her unique abilities to aid in the plants’ growth, departing with a sense of satisfaction.
Aunt Qing held a private admiration for Madame Shao’s unassuming diligence. Rather than merely putting on a show, she had ventured 500 meters to inspect the progress.
Madame Shao’s humility was evident; she did not need to engage in such hands-on efforts. Her grounded nature was truly commendable.
Young Master had demonstrated exceptional judgment in pairing Officer Shao and Madame Shao for this endeavor. Their collaboration far surpassed that of the neighboring aristocrats.
After spending three days in Hangzhou, Qiao Xuan returned home with Sun Qian and Sun Bai, arriving back in Shaoding Village on the ninth day of April.
The first section of the Shao Family’s household welcomed their return with great joy.
Everything was progressing smoothly at home, and the entire village seemed to be thriving. Schools were already in session, with the sound of books filling the air, adding vibrancy to the community.
The Shao Family’s first section”s business was expanding rapidly. Although they had acquired a few servants, they mainly hired villagers to work. The tea and floral fields required year-round attention, ensuring a continuous demand for labor.