Read Novel Full Chapter 1694: Following
Chapter 1694: Chapter 1694: Following
Tan Shaoting had always wanted to introduce energy into his body, but he had never succeeded.
Now, he had come to terms with it—let it be, he wouldn’t pursue cultivation in this lifetime.
After figuring it out, life became more carefree, eating whatever he wanted.
However, he still cared deeply about karma and didn’t want to get too close to people, maintaining a distant aura.
Yuanyuan became even more liberated, following her whims.
One day, Yuanyuan bought some pork trotters hoping to eat them; they didn’t cost much but were troublesome to prepare.
Casually strolling down the street, she was suddenly bumped from behind by someone.
She frowned and looked back—it was a middle-aged man, and his menacing face showed he was not a good person.
Yuanyuan quickly admitted defeat and moved aside.
She bought some sweet potatoes and other things, deciding to head home—avoiding unnecessary trouble.
Upon returning home, she found the gate wide open and saw several people attacking Tan Shaoting in the yard.
Although she disliked him, the truth was that he hadn’t harmed them and had been good to the Su Family, despite costing her ten years of youth.
She dodged out of sight and reappeared holding a knife.
She had spent ten years in the palace training every morning in space without any cultivation techniques, but her physique was strong, defying her frail appearance.
Brandishing the knife, she charged forward, managing to strike the person who fell down immediately.
It wasn’t time to lose focus; she quickly retreated, aware she could only manage sneak attacks—face-to-face, she’d likely be killed instantly.
Tan Shaoting watched her serious demeanor with interest. The person she had struck tried to rise again—she smacked him with the knife handle, and he lay on the ground once more.
Tan Shaoting swiftly dealt with the other three, avoiding killing them to escape karmic consequences.
Quickly, he tied up the four.
"You go cook, I’ll handle things here."
Yuanyuan nodded, relieved Tan Shaoting wasn’t in danger—his skills were impressive.
She started steaming corn bread, roasted the hair from the pork trotters, and carefully cleaned them. After they began simmering, she added two large chunks of meat, craving a meaty dish.
She didn’t watch how Tan Shaoting dealt with things outside.
When dinner was ready, Tan Shaoting came inside.
Having gotten used to this over the years, she didn’t ask about outside matters.
While eating, Tan Shaoting devoured four pork trotters, showing he was truly fine.
The following days he kept going out, while Yuanyuan cooked at home.
Ten days later one midnight, she heard noises, realizing someone had arrived. It seemed they were allies, which reassured her.
Living peacefully, on a particular day she felt like making dumplings, busying herself alone in the kitchen when she heard voices from the yard—oddly, a woman’s voice?
Curious, Yuanyuan stepped out and saw two young ladies following Tan Shaoting—one seemed like a mistress, the other a maid.
Had he found true love? If they had children, would the future Su Xing have to step aside?
She chuckled at herself for overthinking things—considered gain and loss too much.
Now, believing in fate, what’s not yours can’t be forced; besides, those matters concerned others. Though Su Xing was her brother, as Emperor, his choices were his own.
Feeling relieved boosted her mood. She continued making dumplings, wishing Tan Shaoting would find his true love, freeing her from playing housekeeper.
She didn’t inquire what they discussed. When the dumplings were done, Tan Shaoting came inside.
Despite curiosity, she didn’t question—she was used to not asking over the years.
Tasting the dumplings, Tan Shaoting seemed thoroughly pleased. Yuanyuan finished a plate, and he polished off the rest.
That night, snow fell. Yuanyuan stood in the yard, watching the vast whiteness and large snowflakes drifting down.
Despite the night, the sight was clear and remarkably beautiful.
The next morning, the two began clearing the snow until someone knocked on the door.
Yuanyuan decided not to bother—it wasn’t her affair.
Tan Shaoting answered and the two beauties from yesterday appeared.
Disinterested in eavesdropping, Yuanyuan returned indoors to cook.
This weather favored noodles for comfort.
Tan Shaoting timed his entry perfectly; as breakfast finished, he came in.
Yuanyuan prepared chili oil, enhancing the dishes’ flavors.
While shopping she encountered the two young women midway.
"Wait a moment, sir," one called.
Yuanyuan felt exasperated—mistaken for a gentleman.
She’d long grown unaccustomed to the title.
Without speaking, she stared at them.
"Sir, we sisters are grateful for your brother’s rescue. We wish to serve you both," the blushing girl expressed.
Yuanyuan shook her head, "Go see him."
Not wanting to meddle, she left—their intentions were clearly ulterior.
At the market, Yuanyuan bought lots of pork, sweet potato starch, and intestines, craving starch noodles.
Upon returning home, she saw the resolute young women waiting outside—no time to deal with them.
She started her preparations leisurely, with plenty of time to experiment alone.
Using a small gourd was surprisingly effective for stuffing.
With some completed, she planned to enjoy them by noon—the notion of ideals faded, now consumed by thoughts of food.
Lunch paired cornbread with freshly cooked starch sausages, too tender to slice, so biting was necessary.
Tan Shaoting immediately loved their fragrant taste.
Afternoon summoned another knock. Yuanyuan was busy; if Tan Shaoting wished to answer, he could—otherwise, let it be. No one sought her.
She stepped out just as Tan Shaoting closed the door and noticed the girl’s sorrowful look—what a shame.
"Ready?"
Yuanyuan nodded.
Tan Shaoting returned to the kitchen, eating another piece.
Yuanyuan mused, how fitting for an Emperor—was this fine?
Festival fervor was high, wealthy homes adorned with large red lanterns exuding happiness.
Yuanyuan purchased lanterns, couplets, and paper cuttings from a general store.
Transforming the home into a festive space truly reminiscent of New Year celebrations.
Tan Shaoting brought back a bounty of game; though just two for the holiday, the feast was grand.
On the thirtieth night, Yuanyuan prepared a wide array of dishes. Despite their silence, both were satisfied with the meal.