Throwing bricks

Mu Yunhan also cast a meaningful glance at Jun Lintian, suggesting that Jun Lintian might have already suspected that his sister-in-law was still alive.

"Lintian, if we're talking about the most significant event six years ago, isn't it the incident where you publicly divorced your wife on the street? The second miss of the Su family was so humiliated that she tragically committed suicide by banging on the door, causing a major uproar in the city," Mu Yunhan sarcastically remarked, emphasizing the unpleasantness of the matter. He couldn't fathom why Jun Lintian would bring it up again today, as it was a disgraceful event that no one wanted to remember.

"Yun Han, I thought that matter had long been forgotten, but it seems you remember it vividly. It was you who took away my divorced fiancée, Su Zimo. I wonder why you brought up this matter all of a sudden?" Jun Lintian maintained his smile, showing no remorse or guilt for what transpired in the past.

In contrast, the death of Mu Yunxuan and their unique marriage had quickly overshadowed the divorce scandal, causing Mu Yunhan's heart to sink. Now, he worried it might be too late to settle the score.

"Of course I remember, but I took away the deceased Su Zimo, not knowing why you've come here today and suddenly brought up this matter," Mu Yunhan responded, fully aware of Jun Lintian's intentions and choosing to address them directly. He admired Jun Lintian's audacity as a man, even though his actions were outrageous. Mu Yunhan couldn't help but think about the deep hatred Su Zimo must have harbored for Jun Lintian.

Mu Yunxuan occasionally sipped his tea, silently acknowledging that Mu Yunhan had voiced the questions he had in mind.

"It's all in the past, right? She has been dead for six years. I don't think there's much I can do to bring her back. In the end, she found a good home and married Yun Xuan. I didn't want to cause any trouble, Yun Xuan. Are you truly fine after all these six years?" Jun Lintian seemed to express regret while mentioning the past, but his face lacked any genuine remorse or guilt.

"I am indeed alive because of Su Zimo," Mu Yunxuan responded, his words carrying a deep meaning, stirring up King's Landing's emotions.

"Yun Xuan, the curse can't be real, can it?" King's Landing expressed surprise. In Haoyue Country, discussing this long-standing rumor was strictly forbidden in Cloud City. However, with the topic getting closer, Jun Lintian became more eager to know the truth.

"Lintian, these are all old matters. Why do you keep digging into them?" Mu Yunhan, on the other hand, didn't want to get entangled in this matter. His elder brother was already weary from the affairs involving Su Zimo.

"Yun Han, even though it's in the past, Su Zimo had a marriage contract with me. I've felt increasingly remorseful about what happened in these past years. If I had reconsidered things, perhaps the tragedy could have been avoided. Yun Han, is Su Zimo truly dead?" Jun Lintian expressed false apologies but lacked genuine regret and guilt on his face.

"When Yun Han went to pick her up from the Su Mansion, she was already lifeless," Mu Yunhan firmly stated, his expression resolute. He suspected that Jun Lintian was doubting the Bright Moon Lord.

The doubt flashed through Jun Lintian's eyes, making him question what had happened to that note.

Mu Yunxuan, feeling increasingly disgusted by Jun Lintian's hypocritical behavior, cast a cold glance at him. Jun Lintian's actions made him despise him even more. Jun Lintian's pretense of guilt only amplified Mu Yunxuan's sense of shame as a man. If Jun Lintian truly felt remorse, why didn't he act accordingly 800 years ago?

"The divorce has been finalized, the marriage annulled. Su Zimo and you no longer have any connection," Mu Yunxuan tightened his grip on the cup, his voice cold and filled with anger.

He continued, "Su Zimo is now my wife, Mu Yunxuan. You came here today, making a big show of it, and suddenly started asking about my wife. Isn't that highly inappropriate?"

Jun Lintian smiled, fully aware that Mu Yunxuan's patience was wearing thin. Although he didn't get the answer directly, he knew it already. But he didn't dare to be careless because where there is smoke, there's usually fire. He needed to approach the matter from a different angle to get an accurate answer.

As night fell, the hazy clouds covered the stars, and a half moon adorned the sky, revealing only half of its luminous face.

Inside the Su Mansion, the wind rustled through the treetops, overshadowing the subtle sounds.

Taking advantage of the night, Su Ziyun made her way to Xie Lengchan's room.

Xie Lengchan, wearing casual clothes and having just washed her face, sat in front of a slightly hazy copper mirror, admiring her still-beautiful face. With each passing moment, her smile grew wider.

Su Ziyun observed her mother's reflection in the mirror and smiled, "Mother, you're over forty, yet you still look so young. That's impressive!"

"It's all thanks to Yun'er. I take one Yan Dan every month," Xie Lengchan stood up, holding her daughter's hand and leading her to the bed.

"Yun'er, judging by your appearance, I assume the matter of saving your brother didn't go as planned?" Su Ziyun asked, curious about the outcome.

Xie Lengchan couldn't help but feel anxious. Her son was still locked up in prison, and she felt his pain deeply. Prison was a terrible place for anyone to be in.

Su Ziyun smiled, her eyes filled with worry as she spoke, "Mother, the matter of rescuing Xu'er is urgent. It's a case approved by the emperor, and Wang Ye is also trying to find a solution, right?" After saying this, Su Ziyun furrowed her brows.

"Yun'er, you seem worried. Is there something bothering you?" Xie Lengchan asked, noticing her daughter's concerned expression.

Su Ziyun lowered her gaze, pondered for a moment, and then said, "Mother, Wang Ye suspects that the owner of Mingyue Mountain Villa is Su Zimo. To get a definitive answer, Wang Ye went to Cloud City."

Xie Lengchan's eyes flashed with a fierce light. "Yun'er, how is that possible?" The thought of Su Zimo still being alive made her furious. From what Xie Lengchan knew about her for so many years, Su Zimo didn't possess such skills. Even her body couldn't be found when she died, and both their lives were cheap.

Jealousy burned within her as she thought of Su Zimo's beautiful face.

"Mother, Yun'er is still a bit worried. After all, where there's smoke, there's usually fire," Su Ziyun replied, fearing that if that woman truly was Su Zimo, she wouldn't let go of such a valuable opportunity with Wang Ye.

"Yun'er, don't worry. You know very well that all the obstacles in front of you have been cleared. You just need to climb to the top now. Your enemies are gone, and the position of the Third Princess is already yours. Those concubines in the Third Prince's mansion are nothing. Which man doesn't have three wives and four concubines? Su Zimo's mother was also a first-class beauty, and your father didn't choose me later on. So, Yun'er, gaining power in the palace is equivalent to holding the power of life and death over those concubines," Xie Lengchan assured her, wearing a smug smile on her face.

"Very well, mother. Yun'er understands," Su Ziyun responded, nodding. Suddenly, she seemed to recall something and asked, "Mother, back then, when you entered the Taifu Mansion... did something happen?"

In fact, she had been wanting to ask this question for a long time. Su Zimo's death was suspicious. When she was young, she overheard the maids say that Su Zimo's mother's death was related to her own mother-in-law. Today, her mother's words made her think again.

When Xie Lengchan heard her daughter's question, a smug smile appeared on her face. "That's right, that little lady was the one I tried to kill! It's a pity that I couldn't eliminate the siblings together. However, on the day of that little mother's funeral, her body disappeared. Your father didn't pursue the matter too much to cover things up," she revealed.

Su Ziyun was shocked to hear this. She never expected that her mother was the one who killed Su Zimo's mother.

Seeing her daughter's reaction, Xie Lengchan realized she might have revealed too much.

"Yun'er, it was precisely because she died that I gained my position as the lady in charge. You and Xu'er can be mentioned as concubines. Remember, people don't live for themselves, and when they die, the world doesn't crumble. Now that Su Zinian and Su Qingjue have left the Taifu Mansion, this mansion belongs to you and your siblings," Xie Lengchan explained, a self-satisfied smile on her face.

Su Ziyun looked at her mother for a while, understanding what she meant.

After a moment, she said calmly, "Mother, you're right. People don't live for themselves. Su Zimo's death caused me to bear the accusation of stealing my sister's fiancé. If it weren't for Su Zimo's little tricks, the Third Prince wouldn't have delayed marrying me. Now I'm the laughingstock of the capital." Su Ziyun's eyes flickered with a vicious light. Even if Su Zimo was still alive, she would kill her.

Seeing her daughter enlightened, Xie Lengchan smiled and said, "Yun'er, the Third Prince just went to Cloud City, and the information he gathers will likely be the same as before. If Su Zimo really didn't die, she would have returned long ago."

Su Ziyun looked out the window, the foggy clouds slowly turning into dark clouds. The lack of moonlight dampened her mood, and doubts crept into her heart.

On the rooftop, a figure swiftly flew out of the Taifu Mansion, heading towards Mingyue Villa.

In an unassuming courtyard, there was a building designed in a courtyard style.

Even in the darkness, the candlelight revealed its exquisite and magnificent decoration.

This was the villa where Murong Shaofeng resided.

Murong Shaofeng's room wasn't large, but it exuded a chic and elegant atmosphere. It had a simple yet splendid charm, making people feel a sense of brightness upon entering.

Having just finished bathing, Murong Shaofeng sat lazily in a chair near the window, dressed in white undergarments, his wet hair dripping water droplets.

On the table, an incense burner emitted a faint fragrance of Long Yan.

His gaze was distant, silently observing the night outside the window. His handsome forehead was slightly creased, as if he had something on his mind, but it didn't diminish his serene beauty.

Zhu Yan entered the room and noticed the wine glass in Murong Shaofeng's hand. He knew that His Highness only drank when he was upset.

"Your Highness, King Chen is here."

King Chen referred to none other than Murong Xingchen, who was a compatriot and close brother to Murong Shaofeng.

"Let him in," Murong Shaofeng replied with a hoarse yet charming voice.

Zhu Yan glanced at Murong Shaofeng once more before leaving the room to fetch Murong Xingchen.

"Brother Huang, I didn't expect you to have such a beautiful villa in Haoyue Country. Why didn't you tell me earlier? I always had to grab a room in Cloud City or Yunfan's place," Murong Xingchen complained as soon as he entered.

"Is Cloud City so crowded that there's no room for you? You shouldn't have to go and fight for a room with Mu Yunfan," Murong Shaofeng replied calmly, his gaze narrowed. He didn't look directly at Murong Xingchen, his mind preoccupied with the scenes from earlier that day, stirring up complex emotions within him. The sight of Mu Yunxuan caring for Xin'er with every glance pierced his heart.

"Brother Huang, aren't you happy?" Murong Xingchen walked over and sat down beside Murong Shaofeng.

Observing the wine glass in Murong Shaofeng's hand, he frowned. "Brother Huang, is something bothering you?"

"As a prince, there are always many things to worry about," Murong Shaofeng replied, taking a sip of wine. He put down the glass but his gaze remained fixed on the window. His mood mirrored the dark night outside, overshadowed by a black cloud that he tried to dispel but couldn't.

"Brother Huang, with so many concerns, how can you find the time to relax in Haoyue Country? You're not in Xingyue Country, and you don't know what King Yu might do," Murong Xingchen said, expressing his concern.

"Don't worry! He won't be able to make any significant waves. King Yu loves to seize opportunities, but I won't give him a chance," Murong Shaofeng assured, his voice lacking worry. He knew that King Yu was prone to opportunism and wouldn't pose a significant threat.

"By the way, Chen'er, you have a good relationship with the Mu family. Do you know about their marriage six years ago?" Murong Shaofeng finally asked after pondering over it for some time.

"Huh? Brother, why would you be interested in such matters?" Murong Xingchen was surprised. In his mind, his royal brother had always been gentle and elegant, seemingly uninterested in his personal affairs. As a prince, he didn't display the same domineering attitude as the princes of other countries. Thus, his sudden curiosity about the Mu family's marriage puzzled Murong Xingchen.

"Brother Huang, everyone knows about it! Mu Yunxuan's resurrection is a well-known fact," Murong Xingchen replied, unaware of the specific aspect Murong Shaofeng was referring to.

"Chen'er, do you also know about Mu Yunxuan and Su Zimo..." Murong Shaofeng trailed off, realizing that both of them had been unconscious at that time, so nothing of that sort could have happened. He would rather be ignorant and let Mu Yunxuan and Su Zimo handle their own matters.

"Brother Huang, what are you trying to say?" Murong Xingchen asked suspiciously. He found it odd that his royal brother would suddenly take an interest in such matters without any apparent reason.

"It's nothing. Chen'er, since you're here to enjoy yourself, let's have some fun before going back. We still have a month until the annual Shikoku Festival, and you can stay a bit longer in the main palace," Murong Shaofeng suggested, bringing a smile to Murong Xingchen's face.

"Brother Huang, I know that you always want the best for me, but the atmosphere in the Mu family today was quite strange. I couldn't stay any longer, so I came to find you," Murong Xingchen said, stretching his body. "Today has been tiring yet enjoyable. That Su Li really didn't disappoint. It's quite enviable for someone so young."

As he spoke, a smile unconsciously appeared on the corner of Murong Shaofeng's lips.

"Oak has always been like that," he replied to Murong Xingchen's remark.

Murong Xingchen abruptly stopped stretching and stared fixedly at Murong Shaofeng. His royal brother's reaction seemed peculiar to him.

"By the way, Brother Huang, how do you know the owner of Bright Moon Villa? You seem quite familiar with their family of four," Murong Xingchen inquired.

"We met by chance," Murong Shaofeng replied, unwilling to divulge more information. His identity necessitated keeping many things to himself. The less Murong Xingchen knew, the better.

In Mingyue Villa, upon returning, Su Zimo stayed by Su Xin's side, not even taking the time to eat dinner. It wasn't until late at night, once Su Xin's condition stabilized, that Su Zimo's heart finally relaxed a little.

Gently pulling the quilt for Su Xin, Su Zimo's own tired body made her feel exhausted. She got up and walked towards the tub in her room, where she had instructed Qinglian to prepare bathwater earlier. Relieved of the constraints, Su Zimo settled comfortably in the tub, feeling the soothing sensation of water against her skin, which brought her great comfort and even elicited a soft chuckle.

Mu Yunxuan, who had quietly entered Su Zimo's room, was greeted with a sight that almost made him spray blood. He froze on the beam, never expecting to stumble upon such an alluring scene. Su Zimo removed her mask, revealing a beautiful face adorned with long, fluttering eyelashes and captivating cherry-red lips. Her delicate eyebrows added a touch of distress.

Mu Yunxuan's motionless gaze grew increasingly intense, and a voice in his heart urged him to leave. However, the captivating sight of Su Zimo bathing made him unable to take a single step.

Exhaling softly, Su Zimo leaned back in the tub, closed her eyes, and allowed herself to relax, feeling the exhaustion taking over. Thoughts of her daughter's future and the pain in her heart intensified. They say a woman's true pain isn't in her first time or giving birth, nor in lacking basic necessities or wealth. The real pain lies in crying without a shoulder to lean on, and being hurt without anyone by her side.

Unbeknownst to her, two tears slipped down Su Zimo's face. Feeling her heart leaning toward despair, she became frustrated, and in a swift motion, slipped further into the tub, determined to banish these distressing emotions. She refused to succumb to cowardice or retreat.

Mu Yunxuan, burning with a mixture of emotions upon witnessing those two tears, watched as Su Zimo submerged herself in the tub. His heart leaped into his throat, and he contemplated descending, but he was abruptly pulled back by someone behind him.

Mu Yunxuan quickly turned around, momentarily confused by the sight of Qi Er and Que Er, their black attire causing a brief moment of uncertainty. The two brothers' eyes sometimes bore a striking resemblance.

Su Qi gestured for Mu Yunxuan to follow him silently, urging him to leave. Mu Yunxuan recognized the mischievous glint in Su Qi's eyes and knew it was Qi Er.

Su Zimo, immersed in the water, remained oblivious to the recent sound. Su Qi led Mu Yunxuan to his own room.

Taking in his surroundings, Mu Yunxuan found Su Qi's room to be tidy and warm. The unique decoration of Bright Moon Villa exuded a sense of homeliness, and he found himself quite fond of it. There was no excessive luxury or grandeur, yet it managed to create a warm atmosphere.

"Daddy, please have a seat," Su Qi said, pointing to the chair opposite him.

The address of "daddy" caused Mu Yunxuan's joy to surge. His voice involuntarily grew louder with excitement, "Qi'er, are you willing to call me daddy?"

"Shhh," Su Qi motioned, looking outside. "Dad, please whisper. My brother lives next door, and he's very alert. If he finds out you've come, especially at this hour, he'll definitely be angry."

Mu Yunxuan nodded, realizing that Su Qi was right. He looked at Su Qi with uncontainable joy, his eyes burning with passion. Qi Er was willing to call him daddy, and that filled his heart with immense happiness. The word "daddy" choked his throat with excitement.

"Qi'er, you can call me that when there's no one around, but not in front of others. You call me daddy because I am your father. It signifies that there are grievances between adults, but there's no hatred between us and your father."

Su Qi stated matter-of-factly, still fiddling with the medicinal herbs on the table.

"Qi'er, you're absolutely right. It's not that your father didn't want you; he simply didn't know about your existence. If he had known your mother was still alive, he wouldn't have let you wander."

Upon hearing this, Su Qi's joy knew no bounds. So, his father had suffered as well?

"Dad, why did you come secretly like this? You trespassed into my mother's room in the middle of the night. If my mother had found you, it would have been disastrous."

Mu Yunxuan's face flushed red as he was caught red-handed by his son.

"Qi'er, you've also witnessed your mother's attitude. Daddy is afraid of making your mother angry, so he came secretly to see you."

Su Zimo's cold eyes during the day had pained his heart. That woman, regardless of their marital status, was already his wife in terms of reputation and legal documentation. Yet, she guarded him as if he were a thief.

"Yes! My mother's attitude is indeed firm. Xin'er is her life, and Daddy, you must understand that Xin'er showing respect was not appreciated. She thought it was her family, so how could Xin'er not be angry?"

Su Qi's words made their siblings uncomfortable. Xin'er had intended to show respect, but she hadn't expected it to be taken that way. She believed it was a family matter, and it hurt her deeply.

Mu Yunxuan reached out to embrace Su Qi, gazing at him tenderly.

"Qi'er, all three of you siblings are very sensible, and Daddy is extremely happy to see that."

Mu Yunxuan's heart softened. He had never dreamed of having three children before, something he hadn't even dared to think about. Yet, now that he had three children, it didn't feel out of place at all—it brought him immense happiness.

Suzie tilted her head happily. Was this what it felt like to be in her father's embrace? It was different from the warmth and reluctance she felt in her mother's embrace. Her father's embrace represented strength and joy.

"Dad, being sensible comes with a price. In order to help our mother, my brother has devoted almost all his time to cultivating and learning. Isn't that right, brother? He can now stand on his own, and our mother has even entrusted him and Uncle He with handling business matters."

Su Qi's big eyes formed two crescent moons as he smiled. Being praised by his father for being sensible made him feel elated.

"Indeed? In the future, your father can entrust the Mu family's business to him with confidence."

Mu Yunxuan beamed with delight. Didn't he also have a successor?

Suzie smiled but remained silent. Su Qi unintentionally exposed his brother, but unfortunately, Su Li had fought a major battle earlier and had fallen into a deep slumber after being promoted to the third rank.

"By the way, Qi'er, why are you still awake at this late hour? And how did you find Daddy?"

Mu Yunxuan was genuinely puzzled. None of the guards at Bright Moon Villa had discovered his presence, so how did Qi Er manage to find him?

"What's so difficult about that? I just happened to run into you!"

"Just happened to run into me?" Mu Yunxuan was dumbfounded. Could something like that really happen?

In his opinion, it seemed unlikely. With his cultivation, it would be difficult for others to locate him.

"I know you won't believe it, but it was my brother's contract beast, the little fox, who informed me. The little fox has a keen sense of smell. As soon as it detected the scent of a stranger, it alerted my brother. It has been guarding his door this whole time. It sensed your presence during your previous visit, but my brother pretended not to notice. Dad, despite my brother's usual old-fashioned demeanor, he is actually quite lonely. He carries many burdens and feels overwhelmed by the responsibility of protecting Bright Moon Villa. He can only let loose and be like a five-year-old child when he's in our mother's arms."

Mu Yunxuan's heart filled with guilt. At Li'er's age, he was nowhere near as capable.

"By the way, Qi'er, have you always been in charge of Xin'er's treatment?"

As Su Qi sat in his father's arms, his restlessness eased, and his hands continued to sort through the medicinal herbs on the table.

"Yes! Xin'er has had the illness since birth. Grandpa Shi tried everything to save her life, even using the piece of Nanyang jade from my father's family. These precious medicinal materials were brought over by Uncle Murong this time. Qi'er can identify them and see if any of them are useful for Xin'er."

When it came to Xin'er's illness, Su Qi's previously happy expression darkened. Today, Xin'er had frightened them, especially their mother.

Since birth? Mu Yunxuan felt a pang of heartache.

But who was Qi Er's master's grandfather? Mu Yunxuan was curious, but now was not the time to satisfy his curiosity. Xin'er's condition was the priority.

"Qi'er, there are still thirty mature silver plants in the Divine Pool in Cloud City. Do you think they could cure Xin'er's illness?"

"Dad, silver plant grass is currently the best medicinal herb for controlling Xin'er's illness. However, Grandpa Shi said that the silver plant grass can only extend her life; it cannot completely cure her."

Su Qi's words pierced Mu Yunxuan's heart like needles. Could he only offer her a few more years of life? Mu Yunxuan didn't dare to entertain the thought of losing his beloved Xin'er.

"Qi'er, why are you still awake?" Su Zimo's voice came from outside.

Su Qi was startled. How did her mother come here at this time?

As he was about to make a sound, he realized that his father had already disappeared.

When Su Zimo opened the door and entered, she saw Su Qi tinkering with medicinal herbs.

A strange feeling overcame her. She had just sensed someone's presence!

"Mother, why are you still awake? Qi'er has prepared the medicinal herbs and is about to rest."

"My mother noticed that the light in your room was still on, so I came to check. Qi'er, go to bed early. We can prepare these medicinal herbs tomorrow."

Children in this era didn't have to attend school. Most children were educated at home, and her son and daughter were taught personally by her, leaving plenty of time for other activities. However, her two sons had a habit of staying up late, which she couldn't understand.

"Mother, Qi'er will go to bed now."

Su Qi stood up, brushed off the remnants of herbs from his body, and gave a mischievous grin to Su Zimo.

Su Zimo observed him and felt relieved. It was time for her to retire as well.

Only when the door was closed did Suzie let out a sigh of relief.

If my mother saw that picture just now, she would be saddened. How could he make himself look like a thief?

Su Qi shook his head and muttered to himself, "A hard worker is born with a hundred coincidences, and a lazy person is born with a hundred diseases. How can this habit that has been cultivated since childhood be changed all at once? If things aren't done, how can you think about resting?"

Su Qi's small body instantly laid on the bed, gazing at the ceiling, completely exhausted.

A dark shadow pounced.

"Daddy, you haven't left yet?"

Suzie jumped in surprise.

"Daddy is willing to leave. Were you talking to yourself? What were you saying?"

Mu Yunxuan looked at him with amusement, wondering where he learned that.

"Daddy! Hard work is a treasure; life cannot be separated from it. My mother often says that a little effort leads to a harvest. I've been raised with this mentality since I was a child. If the day's tasks are not completed, I won't rest."

"Qi'er, this habit is very good. It can make you independent quickly."

Mu Yunxuan appreciated Su Zimo's method of education. Diligent people sleep like lazy people, while lazy people sleep into diseases. This truth resonated with anyone. There are no free lunches in life, and Qi'er has understood this truth at a young age, which is truly gratifying.

"Dad, do you want to sleep here with Qi'er?"

Suzie blinked her clear eyes and sincerely invited, patting the bed big enough for two people.

As they say, good words warm three winters. Su Qi's invitation was exactly what Mu Yunxuan desired.

"Okay!"

Father and son looked at each other and smiled.

As the candle flame extinguished, the darkness in the room became apparent.

At dawn, Su Zimo entrusted Su Xin to Su Zinian for care.

Leaving everything behind, she busied herself with business matters.

The lime kiln had produced two batches of lime in a short time. Su Zimo estimated that it would be enough for a while. Additionally, there were many piles of bark to be mixed with grass and wood ash. Su Zimo had assigned people to burn the grass and wood ash.

He Yunting's work efficiency was also high. The bark he had transported was already piled up as high as half a hill.

Now they could rest assured of production. There was still over half a year until the New Year. After the paper mill began production, Su Zimo needed to consider her next source of income, which was the jewelry industry. She had traveled far and wide, collecting many valuable items that could fetch a good price in the capital of Haoyue Country.

But for now, she needed to dye the produced paper with color to make it unique and surpass the Mu family.

After Su Zimo returned from the paper mill, He Yunting led thirteen men into Mingyue Villa.

Sitting in the council chamber, they were served fine Longjing tea by a maid.

"Everyone, please wait here. I will go and invite the owner to join us," He Yunting said.

Everyone nodded, and a few older men appeared slightly impatient.

Among the stewards He Yunting had invited, several were highly respected individuals, including Xu Lao Xu Jinghuai.

"Elder Xu, I heard that the owner of Bright Moon Villa is a woman. Elder Xu, you are highly respected. How can you work under a woman's leadership?"

The man in blue sitting next to the old man in black, who appeared to be around thirty years old, wore a flattering expression. However, when he mentioned that the owner of Bright Moon Villa was a woman, a trace of contempt flashed in his eyes.

"Even though this old man is over fifty years old, I am still strong. Whether my future employer is male or female, as long as they can convince me, I will do my best to serve within my capabilities," Xu Lao replied without humility or arrogance. He understood that one should not judge people by their appearance. Bright Moon Villa had become a household name in just two years, and its strength was evident.

"Xu Lao's words are highly regarded by the owner of this villa. The strength of a ship lies in its sails, and the power of people lies in their mindset. Xu Lao is truly an indispensable candidate among the stewards mainly hired by the villa," a resonant and powerful voice spoke, creating a sense of awe.

Everyone searched for the source of the voice and saw Su Zimo dressed in purple. Her lips curled slightly, her figure graceful, and her eyes hidden beneath the mask wise and sharp.

Led by Su Zimo, Liu Shiyu, He Yunting, and Su Qingjue and Su Li entered the room together.

"Everyone, this is the owner of our villa and the young owner," He Yunting introduced with a smile.

"We greet the owner and the young owner," the thirteen individuals stood up in unison to greet them.

"No need to be so polite," Su Zimo replied as she and the others took their seats. Su Li sat down beside her.

Word of Su Li's deeds had spread, and the sight of him today excited everyone's hearts. They couldn't help but cast envious glances at him. Clearly, Su Li had become a celebrity in Haoyue Country.

"Everyone, I believe you already know the purpose of our gathering here. So let me get straight to the point," Su Zimo began, her tone sincere as she looked at each person's face. It was evident that the older stewards were proud and somewhat disdainful, except for Xu Lao, who knew how to assess the situation.

"At present, the villa has purchased thirteen well-located shops in the capital of Haoyue Country. The success of these shops will depend on the stewards' efforts."

Su Zimo's tone was genuine as she observed their reactions. The older stewards, in particular, seemed proud and a bit dismissive. However, Su Zimo was aware of the competitive market. Although she offered a threefold higher salary than others, she aimed to make them sincerely work for her.

"Two hundred taels?"

"This is the highest salary among stewards."

"Yes, the offer is very tempting."

The thirteen stewards started discussing amongst themselves.

The generous salary puzzled everyone.

Xu Lao couldn't help but look deeply at Su Zimo. Offering such a high salary was good, but the quality of the business depended on the quality of the staff.

"Owner, by saying this, do you not trust us? A three-month probation period? The five of us are renowned stewards in the capital of Haoyue Country. Others want to hire us, but we aren't willing to leave yet," an old man in gray clothes said confidently. They were not easy to manipulate, even by a young girl like Su Zimo.

Observing the situation, He Yunting frowned and whispered a few words to Su Zimo.

Upon hearing this, Su Zimo gained a better understanding.

"Mr. Du Lao, the owner doesn't doubt Mr. Du Lao's abilities. However, from a certain perspective, your way of thinking has confined you to a certain mindset. Precisely because you are highly respected, you have created mental barriers for yourself," Su Zimo explained, addressing the gray-clothed elder's concerns.

Everyone looked at Su Zimo with confusion.

"Please clarify, owner. What do you mean by this explanation?" Elder Xu asked, unable to contain his curiosity.

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