214 Chapter 214 Self-Reflection
“What a fucking ingrate, I…” Second Uncle Gu immediately exploded when he heard this.
When they had been in the capital, they had taken good care of the fourth prince. The princess, in particular, had supported him. Second Uncle Gu hadn’t expected that not only did they not receive the fourth price protection, but he had also turned around to suppress them. Second Uncle Gu was truly angry.
However, before he could finish his sentence, Father Gu wrapped his arms around his neck and covered his mouth.
Zhou Huaiming glared at him coldly. “Be careful of what you say. Besides, isn’t it your mistake that led you to be in this state? You should reflect on your actions.”
After he finished speaking, he got into the carriage.
“Thank you for your advice, General Zhou,” Father Gu thanked hurriedly.
However, Zhou Huaiming ignored them and asked the coachman to drive on.
After the carriage had gone far away, the patriarch wiped the sweat from his forehead and raised his leg to kick Second Uncle Gu. “You rascal, do you think your head is that sturdy?”
“No, big brother…” Second Uncle Gu staggered and was about to refute when the patriarch abruptly cut him off. “Go to the ancestral hall and kneel for a day and a night. Reflect on your actions.”
“Big Brother, I’ll bring him over now.” Father Gu immediately pulled Second Uncle toward the ancestral hall.
The village chief didn’t know what to say after seeing this. It was not surprising for the Gu clan to experience what they did.
“Argh, I’m so pissed. I’ve never seen such a brainless person.” The patriarch complained in an unpleasant tone.
“Don’t be angry; anyone would feel uncomfortable. But don’t worry, as long as I’m alive, our two clans will be tied together.”
“Thank you, uncle. You don’t have to take this matter to heart. As General Zhou said, this reward can only fall on Jiaqiang, so I have no objections.” At this point, the patriarch asked thoughtfully, “Uncle, what do you think General Zhou meant when he said there would be other arrangements for the Gu clan?”
The village chief paused for a moment and nodded, saying, “Since the imperial decree did not mention it, it must be a private compensation. It should be directly given to Gu Chengrui and his wife.”
“That’s true. The drawing belongs to them, so naturally, they should receive the reward.” The patriarch nodded in agreement.
He turned to look at the remaining water at the bottom of the river not far away and sighed. “People suffering from this drought are panicking. I hope the drought won’t continue any longer.”
“It’s hard to say, but it’s better than a flood.” The village chief sighed.
Fortunately, the village was not affected much because of the waterwheel and the decision to plant only chilies. There were rumors that many families in other villages had already started to sell their children.
At night, after Zhou Huaiming heard the report from Manager Liu and Sun Hongliang, he looked at Sun Hongliang and asked, “What do you think of Zhou Ying and her husband?”
“They are of good character. As long as their servants follow their rules, they’re quite generous to them.
“Also, there’s a couple in the restaurant with a child. Manager Zhou gave special permission for the child to go to school. She said that if the child can pass the exam three years later, she can give him his freedom.”
“What if you were to follow them?”
Sun Hongliang was stunned for a moment, and then his face turned pale as he knelt. “Young Master, please let me know if I have done anything wrong. This little one will correct it immediately.”
“What are you thinking? Didn’t you just say that Zhou Ying and the others want to train some people? It’s obvious that they have a long-term plan.
“Since she trusted you and asked you to help keep an eye on the beggars, I think it’s better for you to go directly to her side.
“By then, she’ll be able to trust and value you more. Who knows, you might even become their number-one aide in the future.
“However, it might not be as promising as the development prospects over here.
“Of course, I won’t force you if you’re not willing.”