The Iron and Blood Spirit in Them

"That's great. I've planned to allocate this courtyard for my younger brother, SiN an, when he comes to study. It will also serve as a resting place for family members bringing goods from the mountains or conducting business. Therefore, we won't need many rooms."

At this point, Xiangbei already had a plan in mind. "The main bedroom in the main courtyard and the four rooms in the north wing will be for the Tong family men. Wind Uncle will stay on the south side. The same arrangement applies to the second courtyard, with the main bedroom and north wing reserved for female guests, managed by Duo'er on the south side. In the third courtyard, the main bedroom will accommodate Sea Uncle and Rain Uncle along with their families, while the other rooms will have open beds for those coming down from the mountains. Sea Uncle, you'll be in charge of coordinating the rest."

Turning to the two elderly men, Xiangbei continued, "I have a lot of wooden and bamboo products to order. Can you provide me with some favorable prices?"

"All of them and their goods are all yours. Why would they need to offer you a discount?" Suddenly, Cheng Mo spoke up, gesturing and playfully swiping his finger across Xiangbei's nose before addressing the group, "Everyone, we're all experienced members of our Cheng family. I don't need to emphasize the rules. From today onwards, Miss Tong is in charge. Just call her Miss Bei, and follow her orders."

Exchanging glances privately, everyone orderly approached Xiangbei, expressing their gratitude and respect with formal gestures.

"Thank you, Miss Bei, for your hospitality and kindness. We can make do with the rooms on the south side. Even if the main bedroom is vacant, it shouldn't be used privately, disrupting the rules," Sea Uncle spoke appreciatively yet firmly, embodying both gratitude and care.

From the elderly man, Xiangbei could discern the remnants of past iron-willed determination and noted the respect the people in the courtyard held for him. Hmm, he seemed like a leader of opinions, but his attitude toward Xiangbei was genuinely kind. So, she used her eyes to seek confirmation from Cheng Mo.

"Then let's follow Sea Uncle's suggestion. In the third courtyard, the main bedroom will have three central rooms, and on each side, there will be guest rooms for overnight stays. Similar to the rooms on the south side, they'll have wooden platforms for bedding. The rest, we leave to Sea Uncle's arrangement. Now, let's disperse. Miss Bei and I will explore each area ourselves," Cheng Mo decisively concluded.

As the people dispersed, Cheng Mo whispered to Xiangbei, "These two masters might be the best artisans you can find in the entire South County. They're now under your command. Tomorrow morning, come and see what they've crafted. Tonight, I can take you to the market to find a blacksmith and a mechanician. How about that?"

"How about that? You know I'm in a hurry, and here you are teasing me. Be careful; I might hit you," Xiangbei responded, her mind already buzzing with anticipation. Seeing Cheng Mo playfully testing her, she raised her hand as if to strike him, but her tiny fist barely reached his chest, lacking the intimidation she intended. Maybe she should reconsider.

Continuing the translation of the novel:

Cheng Mo chuckled, taking her hand and leading her from the southern path out through the back door onto the bustling street. The lanterns and lights from various courtyards illuminated the street, creating a lively and bright atmosphere. "This side feels like a never-ending city, even more vibrant than the main street," Xiangbei exclaimed, marveling at the town's picturesque night scene.

"Most of the residents and artisans live on this side. Some have just returned from work, and many boats from Bohai Bay come here to turn around or anchor after loading and unloading goods in the county. It's the time when boatmen grab a late-night meal, and merchants find artisans for orders. That's why it's bustling now," Cheng Mo explained.

Enjoying the pleasant atmosphere of the night market, Xiangbei wandered around, buying items without keeping track. They were mostly small trinkets costing one or two copper coins each. She was reveling in the joy of shopping. Cheng Mo, unfortunately, became a living coat rack, with Xiangbei hanging her purchases on him. He looked quite miserable, wishing he had two more hands. Several people from shops, about to greet them, tactfully pretended not to notice, engaging in loud conversations with others. Those who had made eye contact with Cheng Mo from across the street quickly disappeared, stifling their laughter. Cheng Mo glared at them fiercely, and they sheepishly dispersed.