Chapter 63: Understanding
Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations
More importantly, she and her Fifth Brother went fishing again. Equipped with the same rod and the same earthworms, they had hoped for a successful catch of small fish. However, luck seemed to elude them as they returned empty-handed.
Their disappointment was not unique. The children of the village also faced a similar fate, unable to reel in any fish.
Amidst the chatter in the village, everyone attributed their misfortunes to the supposed good fortune of their Third Sister-in-law, who seemed to possess a magical touch when it came to carp fishing.
Another belief circulated that the tender leaves she picked had an uncanny ability to attract wild rabbits, coaxing them to willingly enter traps. The villagers entertained the thought of relishing a braised rabbit feast that night.
Amidst these thoughts, Su Ning didn’t intervene as Qin Zhenzhen pursued her own tasks.
Upon their return home, Su Ning would perhaps discreetly replace the real grass with a fake substitute.
As they reached the yam field on the opposite mountain, Qin Zhenzhen assigned Su Ning the task of gathering the yam fruits while she dug for the roots.
Digging yam roots proved to be a challenging endeavor.
In the modern world, yam plants were engineered to facilitate easy harvesting of their roots. However, wild yam roots were a different story altogether. They grew long and thin, often vertically instead of horizontally. Extracting them intact required deep and careful digging.
Yet, Qin Zhenzhen remained in good spirits, displaying remarkable patience. As she dug, she took the opportunity to educate Su Ning about the various beneficial effects of yams.
“Yams possess fifteen notable effects,” she explained.
“Firstly, they nourish the body and help slow down the aging process.”
“Secondly, they can aid in weight loss and serve as ingredients for cosmetics and skincare products.”
“Thirdly, yams contribute to kidney health and can alleviate symptoms of frequent urination.”
“Fourthly, they act as a natural remedy for treating diarrhea and enhancing the digestive and absorptive functions of the body. They can also alleviate loss of appetite and indigestion.”
“Fifthly, yams provide an energy boost, help strengthen the qi, and effectively treat coughs and shortness of breath.”
When Qin Zhenzhen finished explaining the fifteen effects, Su Ning was left in awe.
“Third Sister-in-law, you have such extensive knowledge!”
Qin Zhenzhen replied, “Of course. I have been studying and memorizing medicinal herbs since I was a child. I’ve committed the effects of many herbs to memory.”
Admiration shone in Su Ning’s eyes.
“Third Sister-in-law, could you teach me too?”
“Certainly, I can teach you how to use medicinal herbs and ingredients to create delicious dishes that also have healing properties.”
“That’s fantastic! Thank you for agreeing to teach me, Third Sister-in-law!”
Su Ning felt a mix of happiness and concern. “But won’t it take a long time to learn all of this?”
She worried that Third Sister-in-law and Third Brother might end up divorcing each other.
Third Brother had never shown much fondness for Third Sister-in-law, and Third Sister-in-law had confessed that her feelings towards Third Brother had changed as well.
Qin Zhenzhen understood Su Ning’s concerns and smiled reassuringly. “As long as I am part of the Su Family, I will do my best to teach you. Your progress will depend on your own dedication and a bit of luck.”
Su Ning’s spirits dampened slightly.
No matter how intelligent a person was, it was impossible to learn everything at once.
If her Third Sister-in-law and Third Brother divorced, she would lose the opportunity to learn from her altogether.
She silently hoped that Third Sister-in-law and Third Brother would stay together, for it would be a great loss to never have her as a mentor again.
Pondering over her thoughts, Su Ning mustered up the courage to ask, “Third
Sister-in-law, you used to have such strong feelings for my Third Brother. Why did you decide to divorce him?”
Qin Zhenzhen smiled gently. “Have you ever heard the saying, ‘Hold your hand open, and let go if it’s not warm enough’? People change, and if you can’t change them, sometimes it’s better to let go.”
Su Ning remained in a state of surprise for a long while, contemplating Qin Zhenzhen’s words. It was clear that she intended to convey a vital message to Su Ning.
Indeed, it was true that one could have deep affection for another person, but they couldn’t force that person to reciprocate those feelings. It was essential to recognize that if the other person didn’t have the same intention, it was better to release them as soon as possible. Clinging to someone who didn’t share the same sentiments would only bring trouble and turmoil to oneself and their family.
Qin Zhenzhen hoped to guide Su Ning towards a different path, as in the original story, Su Ning had been portrayed as a stubborn girl who repeatedly delved into darkness. If only Su Ning had heeded her advice, perhaps she could have changed her unfortunate fate..