After Transmigration, I Picked Up A Husband and Daughter
Chapter 164: Testing

Chapter 164: Chapter 164: Testing

Steam wafted around, bringing with it a cozy warmth, perfect for soothing the stomach and quenching thirst before a meal.

Su Yu also felt a slight protest from her stomach and was the first to serve herself a bowl. The sweet taste instantly moisturized her throat, like a warm stream slowly flowing into her heart.

In a corner of the kitchen, chicken stewed in a clay pot over a low flame, exuding a fragrance that was rich yet not greasy. Even the passersby outside the yard couldn’t help but take a deep breath, marveling at the irresistible allure of the delicious scent.

Su Yu gently lifted the lid of the clay pot, seeing the clear broth and the chicken that was now thoroughly cooked and tender. She carefully sprinkled in a bit of salt, seasoning it just right before covering it again, turning down the heat, and allowing the rich flavors to further meld in the slow stew, anticipating the perfect presentation of that moment.

All the dishes were now properly laid out, and every item on the dining table looked tempting, just waiting for the guests to arrive to immediately kick off this feast of flavors.

However, as time passed, Su Yu began to look out the door from time to time, her brow furrowed in mild anxiety and puzzlement, inwardly wondering, "What’s going on? Why haven’t the guests arrived yet?"

On the other hand, Willow Village was unusually lively due to the personal visit of the County Magistrate Master Song Junde.

The village chief, with pride and joy on his face, warmly guided Song Junde around the village, showing the meticulous care he exerted in every corner.

Although Song Junde’s stomach was growling from the long journey, he showed no impatience. Instead, he expressed appreciation for the orderliness of Willow Village under the leadership of the village chief.

Especially after learning about the series of measures strictly implemented by the village chief to improve the villagers’ quality of life, Song Junde was even more impressed.

For example, the village chief, well aware of the saying "disease enters through the mouth," emphasized the importance of environmental hygiene. He strictly prohibited the accumulation of animal waste by the roadside to prevent water contamination. This measure was strictly enforced. As they walked through Willow Village, it was evident that the roads were clean, nearly spotless, and the air was fresh, eliciting admiration.

Just as the two were enjoying their conversation, Song Junde’s stomach untimely made a protesting noise, breaking the harmonious atmosphere.

The village chief suddenly realized his oversight, smacked his forehead with a laugh, and apologized, "Oh dear, I got too excited and neglected the proper time for your meal. Please don’t mind me."

Song Junde waved his hand dismissively, understanding, "Not at all, not at all. Although you are the village chief, your broad knowledge and unique insights, not to mention the various improvement proposals you’ve made, have earned my deep respect. Such a minor oversight is trivial."

Hearing these words, the village chief immediately relaxed, feeling as if a great weight had been lifted from his heart.

"Master, please follow me. I have already notified the parents of Jiang Qishan in advance, and they have prepared a sumptuous meal awaiting your arrival."

The village chief diligently led the way, and the group headed toward the home of Jiang Qishan.

Along the way, the villagers cast envious and awe-filled glances as they watched the village chief enter the home of the Jiang Family, their hearts filled with a longing and anticipation for such honor.

The County Magistrate’s visit to their humble abode was not only a moment of glory for the Jiang Family but also an unprecedented highlight for the entire Willow Village.

Song Junde had thought he was mentally prepared to face the most simple and unadorned country meal.

However, when he truly blended into the scene around that slightly worn dining table, the surrounding atmosphere and the sight still made him pause momentarily, stirring within him an indescribable emotion.

The fish, without a doubt, was the handiwork of a gentle woman named Su Yu, who always managed to conjure a heartwarming miracle during hard times.

As for the chicken meat on the plate with its deep color, the texture revealed signs of age, clearly coming from an old hen long exposed to the elements; and those two plump eggs silently declared that their mother was in the prime of reproduction, each a precious hope for this family.

He slowly scanned his surroundings, and the word ’spartan’ seemed to be the most fitting description of this home.

The furniture was worn, and the walls were patchy, but everything was impeccably clean, showcasing the dignity and decorum the homeowners maintained despite their hardships.

In such a family barely sustaining themselves, supporting a scholar was indeed a luxury, but they spared no expense, exhausting all they had, just to host a passing County Magistrate Master.

This genuine enthusiasm stirred a mix of emotions in Song Junde’s heart, making it difficult for him to accept calmly.

In an instant, regret surged like a tide in his heart, and Song Junde silently reproached himself for not fully considering how his visit might impose an additional burden on this already struggling family.

His brows knitted into a heavy frown, this subtle change in expression caught by Wu Lan and Jiang Youwei standing by, who exchanged an anxious glance.

Could it be that the magistrate was dissatisfied with the meal? In their eyes, the officials’ tables were always filled with exquisite dishes and fine wines, whereas their humble offerings might not even meet the basic standards.

But this was the best they could offer.

The fish and the oil used for cooking were all results of Su Yu’s enthusiastic help; beyond that, they really could not afford any additional luxuries.

Su Yu quietly observed, trying to gauge the new County Magistrate’s thoughts. If he indeed disapproved of the simple reception, perhaps it was best to forego such "courtesies."

The village chief was also puzzled by the County Magistrate’s reaction. Although the dishes might not seem much to an outsider, in such a remote small mountain village, the effort put into the preparation was not easily achieved.

The County Magistrate’s furrowed brows and solemn expression forced the village chief to carefully speak up, "Master, the dishes are getting cold."

Song Junde seemed to snap out of his deep thoughts, his face once again lighting up with a warm smile, "Please, everyone, don’t be reserved. Let’s all sit down together."

The villagers looked at each other, their eyes filled with disbelief.

The County Magistrate Master, inviting them, mere peasants, to dine at the same table? This honor was almost too heavy for them to bear.

Most of those present had never left Clear Water Town in their entire lives; suddenly faced with such a situation, their anxiety and unease grew wildly like untamed weeds.

After a brief contemplation, the village chief decided to let go of his reservations, as all signs today indicated that the County Magistrate was a good official who stayed close to the people and would not be overly harsh on them.

Thus, he took the lead and sat down, saying to everyone, "Since the Master has invited us, let’s not decline."

With the village chief setting an example, others also gradually lowered their guard and began taking their seats one by one.