Chapter 144: Kiss Rejection

Chapter 144

"Your Excellency Grand Marshal, I am both honored and surprised," Li Yao spoke confidently, "but I made a vow at my child's father's grave that I would never remarry in this lifetime. So, I'm afraid I must decline your kind intentions."

Upon hearing her words, Grand Marshal Xu's expression relaxed as if a burden had been lifted from his shoulders.

However, for some reason, there was a profound sense of loss hidden in his heart.

Ever since he witnessed Li Yao personally slay Hu Can, her valiant and elegant figure had been indelibly etched in his mind.

But alas, a brute desires while a beauty remains indifferent.

"I have been presumptuous," Grand Marshal Xu's gaze turned desolate as he clasped his hands, "then I shall return to the capital."

"Wait a moment."

Grand Marshal Xu halted his steps, his heart involuntarily racing.

"Grand Marshal Xu," Li Yao said, "if you visit my He Wan village, we may not have another chance to meet. So, allow me to present you with a small gift."

As she spoke, Li Yao produced a little booklet.

Grand Marshal Xu accepted it and found that it contained detailed methods for refining various types of high-quality steel, along with illustrations of the smelting furnaces.

"Madam Li, what is this...?"

"I am but a common woman and cannot assist with affairs of the state," Li Yao replied, "but since I am a citizen of Daling Country, there are some matters within my capabilities that I will not refuse. This is a compilation of refined steelmaking techniques, which can provide our Daling soldiers with superior weapons and armor. I hope that with these resources, Grand Marshal Xu can lead our troops to pacify the border and bring a few days of peace to the people of Daling."

Grand Marshal Xu's emotions became so stirred that he could hardly speak.

He had stayed in He Wan village for so long, and wasn't this one of his primary objectives?

He had thought it unattainable, yet it came so easily at the final moment.

"Madam Li's concern for the nation is truly a blessing for our Daling Country! After I return to the capital, I will report to His Majesty and propose to reward and honor Madam Li."

"There's no need," Li Yao smiled, "By the way, I wonder if the military has any interest in purchasing the bicycles and tricycles produced in our village?"

"Buy? We must buy!"

Grand Marshal Xu felt delighted.

These items were more efficient than cattle and horses for logistics transportation. Since he had accepted Li Yao's gift, it was only natural to reciprocate her kindness. Visitt novelbin(.)co/m for the latest updates

He immediately placed an order for three thousand vehicles on the spot.

"Mother, we're done with school!"

As evening approached, Wang Er, the Ninth Prince, and Song Zhe returned home under the setting sun.

Now the three boys went to school and came back together every day. They were very diligent in their studies, and with the addition of a few knowledgeable teachers sent by the Emperor from the capital city, their progress was remarkable. They might even take the Autumn Examination this year.

Of course, the Ninth Prince didn't need to take the exam, and Song Zhe definitely wouldn't pass. Only Wang Er had the possibility of trying.

He was looking forward to it and worked hard, staying up late every night to read.

Mosquitoes were becoming more numerous this season, but luckily, Du Xiao Hui tirelessly helped drive them away.

Li Yao didn't plan to interfere with the relationship between Wang Er and Du Xiao Hui. It all depended on Wang Er's wishes. If he thought Du Xiao Hui was good, they would consider marriage in the future.

As for the disparity in social status, Li Yao didn't think it was important at all.

What mattered was mutual affection and growing old together.

...

In the blink of an eye, early summer arrived, and each day became hotter than the last.

After more than a month of recuperation, Liu Yuan had almost recovered his health.

During this period, he entrusted his business to his family members to take care of, but he couldn't rest assured. So today, he decided to personally handle it.

"Lady Li, thanks to your care during this time, I have been able to recover so quickly."

"You're welcome. You suffered unjustly this time, and it was all because of me. It's only right that I have someone take care of you for a while."

Hearing her words, Liu Yuan felt delighted.

He had indeed suffered a lot, with his whole body covered in wounds. But because of that, he had gained Li Yao's trust even more.

Li Yao has now become a seventh-grade concubine and is destined for further promotion in the future, which will undoubtedly bring even greater prosperity to his business.

So, what does it matter if he encounters a little trouble?

"Oh, by the way," Li Yao asked, "next time you come, could you help me purchase some saltpeter? The weather is getting hotter, and I happen to be someone who dislikes heat. I want to make some ice."

"Sure, how much do you need?"

"Buy a little more, it will come in handy later. And remember, the purity must be the highest."