Chapter 20: Making Arrangements

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As Ning Ye arranged these matters, Zhang Zihe felt somewhat uneasy. Ning Ye perceived his thoughts clearly; after all, he was now safe, but his younger sister at home might face retaliation.

“Don’t worry. When I returned, I already sent someone to fetch your sister. She should be arriving soon,” Ning Ye assured him.

Zhang Zihe said in surprise, “I didn’t expect you to be so thorough in your considerations. In that case, I can finally rest easy.”

Before long, the person Ning Ye sent returned with a little girl. From afar, her emerald-green dress was indeed very beautiful.

When she approached Jin Qian, Ning Ye could understand why Huang Shan was so persistent. Such a beautiful young girl would surely stir feelings in anyone.

Her face was like that of a sprite, with moist eyes that seemed mischievous, and lips as pink and soft as jelly.

The little girl showed no trace of shyness as she walked in; instead, she looked around curiously.

For a child so young to have such composure was quite remarkable.

Zhang Zihe hurried over and asked, “Zi Feng, did anyone cause trouble at home?”

Zhang Zifeng nodded. “No, that Huang fellow didn’t come, but the uncle was too anxious, so I didn’t take anything from home.”

The man who came to fetch Zhang Zifeng was a sturdy-looking middle-aged man.

He scratched his head and said, “My master said to bring you back as fast as possible. The business is a bit urgent.”

Ning Ye smiled, “In urgent matters, discretion applies. You did nothing wrong. If there’s nothing valuable at home, leave it be. I will compensate you for the rest.”

Zhang Zihe quickly waved his hand, “No need, sir. There really isn’t anything worth much. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have fallen to this state. It’s enough that everyone is safe.”

“This house will be mine from now on. If you don’t mind, you can choose a room here to stay for now, and we’ll make further plans later.”

Zhang Zihe was deeply moved, at a loss for words. Ning Ye had done everything that needed doing.

As long as Ning Ye didn’t do anything unforgivable in the future, he would likely devote himself wholeheartedly to him.

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What Zhang Zihe didn’t know was just how much his decision today would benefit him later. Looking back, he would only feel incredibly wise.

After arranging everyone, Ning Ye prepared to return to Qingyuan Village.

He had been away nearly two days, and if he delayed further, Lin Qinshu would surely worry.

Riding his white horse, Ning Ye urged it forward swiftly toward Qingyuan Village. Though night had fallen, the lights at home were still burning brightly.

Hearing the horse’s neigh outside, Lin Qinshu, sitting inside, suddenly lifted her head. The dim light could not hide the excitement on her face.

Drowsy little Yuan perked up immediately, and Xiao Qing grabbed a knife, ready.

After all, visitors at this late hour must be approached with caution until their identity was confirmed.

When Lin Qinshu opened the door and saw Ning Ye on horseback, tears sprang to her eyes. “Husband, you’ve returned so late.”

Ning Ye quickly dismounted and embraced her. “I’m sorry for coming back late and making you worry.”

Lin Qinshu clutched his clothes tightly. “You’re not hurt, right? And what about those people you took with you? Are they all dead? It’s okay; even if we failed, we can try again.”

Ning Ye smiled faintly. “Your husband succeeds where it counts. Rest assured, I’ve eliminated them all. Lord Wang rewarded me with a new residence, so I’ve put them there for now.”

Little Yuan’s eyes sparkled. “Young Master Ning is amazing! You defeated those wicked people so easily?”

Xiao Qing blushed slightly, her gaze full of admiration.

During previous training, Xiao Qing had helped deliver meals and had always been fond of martial arts.

Ning Ye had taught her some self-defense techniques, and they had shared much interaction.

“Young Master Ning, you probably haven’t eaten properly yet. There are still some dishes saved for you in the pot. Why not eat first?”

Ning Ye pinched Lin Qinshu’s cheek. “Since Xiao Qing said so, I guess none of you have eaten. Let’s have dinner quickly.”

To comfort Lin Qinshu, Ning Ye held her close as they ate. Their affectionate display made the two girls a bit uncomfortable.

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After all, such intimacy between husband and wife was highly private in ancient times, and such open displays could be awkward for others.

However, Xiao Qing and Little Yuan’s personalities showed at this moment. Xiao Qing ate her meal boldly, while Little Yuan kept her head down, sneaking glances now and then.

After dinner, Ning Ye hadn’t yet rested when Ning Siliang came to visit.

Lin Qinshu whispered, “Fourth Uncle has come several times. He must be very concerned.”

Ning Ye nodded. “You three go to bed first. I’ll talk with Fourth Uncle for a while, then rest.”

Ning Siliang asked nervously, “Is everything settled?”

“Don’t worry, Fourth Uncle. It’s all taken care of. Now you just need to prepare properly. Tomorrow, we’re moving to a new home.”

Ning Siliang finally breathed a sigh of relief. “Xiao Ye, I’m increasingly amazed by you. I didn’t expect you to have such ability. But what do you mean by moving to a new home?”

“I played a big role this time, so Lord Wang rewarded me with a house. It’s quite large, so I hope you and the others can move there with me.”

Ning Siliang laughed. “So our Xiao Ye has really made a name for himself?”

Ning Ye said proudly, “That large house is the one outside the eastern city. I’m sure you know it. Plus, Lord Wang gave me a hundred acres of fertile land.”

Upon hearing this, Ning Siliang was overjoyed. The Ning family was finally about to soar. With a hundred acres and a grand house, even if they did nothing else, they would be genuine landed gentry.

“This is a big deal. If you have no objections, Xiao Ye, I’ll invite the whole village for a feast tomorrow to celebrate properly.”

Ning Ye understood Ning Siliang’s pride and didn’t refuse. He also provided ten taels of silver, as hosting a meal for the village wouldn’t cost much.