After Transmigration, I Picked Up A Husband and Daughter
Chapter 165: A Whole New Level of Respect

Chapter 165: Chapter 165: A Whole New Level of Respect

Song Junde, seeing the situation, said politely and humbly, "I’m really sorry for the trouble I’ve brought everyone; these dishes look very delicious, I deeply appreciate your efforts."

Upon hearing this, Jiang Youwei and Wu Lan’s cheeks flushed red, and nervousness made their speech clumsy; they could only respond with a shy smile, their simple gratitude was evident without words.

It was Jiang Qishan, however, who wore a sincere smile and gently waved his hand to take over the conversation, his voice filled with a dash of humility and joy, "Not at all! For you to lower your status and step under the humble roof of our Jiang family is indeed a blessing and a great honor that our family has cultivated over generations."

When Song Junde heard this, a hint of faint approval flashed through his eyes, and he nodded lightly to accept this gratitude, then he no longer engaged in too much politeness.

"Ladies and gentlemen, no need to be formal; let us chat and enjoy these delicacies on the table that have been carefully prepared."

He encouraged warmly, taking the lead by picking up a slice of translucent fish, lightly dipping it into the special sauce, and slowly bringing it to his mouth.

With this first bite, the atmosphere in the room immediately became much lighter, and everyone followed suit, starting to taste the delights on the table.

The fish seemed to dance on the tip of the tongue, tender and smooth, bursting with freshness, spicy yet not overwhelming, utterly refreshing, which unconsciously brought a look of surprise to Song Junde’s eyes.

Even the experienced chefs in his government residence could not produce such a sublime flavor.

For a moment, everyone at the table exchanged admiring glances, clearly captivated by this unique taste.

Next, Song Junde tried a small piece of chicken that had been slowly stewed over a low fire for a long time. The meat had achieved the ultimate tenderness, the aroma of herbs perfectly interwoven with the meat’s fragrance, not only without any abruptness but also added a touch of warmth and comfort.

The gravy was thick without being greasy, sweet yet savory, making one’s throat involuntarily swallow.

Song Junde, having traveled a long distance and with an empty stomach, quickly found satisfaction in the face of such enticing dishes, and the initial concern he might have brought by his sudden visit also dissipated in the comfort of the meal.

Those seated around the round table enjoyed the food while constantly singing its praises; the atmosphere was thoroughly harmonious.

Jiang Qishan, with his mouth full of food, a hint of a smile still on his lips, said indistinctly, "Mom, when did your cooking skills become so superb!"

His tone was both surprised and proud.

Wu Lan’s face showed a gentle blush as she softly explained, "This isn’t my doing; I asked your second sister-in-law to help. It was her work."

Her words were filled with gratitude and respect for Su Yu.

When Song Junde heard this, his gaze inadvertently turned to Su Yu, a flicker of surprise and admiration flashing in his eyes.

This woman, not only proficient in using medicine to remove pests and skilled in fishing, but also excelling in cooking, could truly be described as talented in many fields.

"Miss Su, you truly do not let the men overshadow you, brimming with talent!"

Song Junde earnestly praised.

Facing the compliments, Su Yu simply smiled lightly, her attitude neither overly humble nor arrogant. "It is good if you are satisfied, sir; this is what I should do."

Her neither servile nor arrogant manner, neither overtly flattering nor fearing power, made Song Junde respect her even more.

When he tasted that crispy, deliciously savory, and perfectly salted mysterious food, Song Junde was even more amazed. The unique texture lingered long in his mouth, yet he could not guess what it was made of.

"What exactly are the ingredients in this?"

Song Junde asked curiously.

"Fish scales,"

Su Yu answered succinctly, her tone calm.

"Fish scales?"

Song Junde was more incredulous than surprised, unable to believe that fish scales could become such a delicious food.

Su Yu patiently explained, "Yes, these fish scales not only have a unique texture but are also rich in nutrients, containing a large amount of collagen and calcium, which are especially beneficial for bone health."

This statement left the audience puzzled, the terms collagen and calcium being quite unfamiliar to them, yet they vaguely sensed the advantages—incredibly, this seemingly ordinary dish hid such knowledge and wisdom.

Su Yu’s erudition and intelligence once again made everyone regard her with renewed respect, admiration naturally arising in their hearts.

After a fulfilling meal, the fragrance of wine and the satisfaction of a full belly left everyone content.

Song Junde prepared to stand and take his leave. Before departing, he generously left a heavy ingot of silver for the Jiang Family as a thanks for their hospitality. Moreover, he recited a poem that not only expressed gratitude for the warm reception of the Jiang Family but also conveyed his longing for this wonderful time...

"The emperor values talents, and literature guides your endeavors, all can be cast aside, only scholarship stands supreme."

The voice of the County Magistrate echoed in the simple hall of the Jiang Family, each word revealing reverence for learning and expectations for the future, like the warm sun of spring, gentle yet with an undeniable strength.

The couple of the Jiang Family exchanged glances, their faces showing their bewilderment, as if they were caught in an unfamiliar mist, admiring the government’s emphasis, yet puzzled about how to interpret this sudden attention.

Their brows were slightly furrowed, ripples of confusion spreading in their hearts.

Only Jiang Qishan, this young and ambitious youth, couldn’t help but kneel down immediately upon hearing these words, his knees touching the cold floor tiles, making a slight noise.

He looked up, his eyes shining with determination, as if the Milky Way had fallen to earth, brilliant and bright.

"Thank you, sir, for your favor. Qishan will indeed bear it in mind, will not fail your expectations, and will strive with all my might, endeavoring to advance!"

Having said this, he bowed deeply, expressing his most sincere respect and resolve.

Time seemed to stand still at that moment, until a breeze blew by, taking away the heavy silence.

Seeing her son still devoutly kneeling, unable to rise, Wu Lan approached swiftly, her gentle hand gently resting on his shoulder, "Qishan, get up, the officials have already left, your knees must be hurting."

Her words were filled with maternal care and tenderness.

However, as she tried to help her son up, she unexpectedly discovered that Jiang Qishan’s eyes were brimming with tears, clear and shining like dewdrops on the tips of leaves in the morning, ready to fall at the slightest touch.

Wu Lan’s heart tightened, worry arising, "Qishan, my child, what’s wrong? Why are you so upset?"

Her voice was soft and full of inquiry, like the spring breeze brushing against tender willow branches.

Upon hearing this, Jiang Qishan’s tears could no longer be held back, falling like pearls off a string, one after another down his cheeks, carrying the innocence of youth and the weight of dreams.

"Mom, Dad, I really miss studying, I long to prove myself through the imperial examination, to bring glory to our family. This is not only my dream but also my way of repaying your hard work,"

As he spoke, he roughly wiped the tears from his face with the back of his hand, his determination and perseverance starkly evident on his still youthful face.