Chapter 464: Chapter 464 Redemption (4)
Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
On the other end, Zhou Dasheng also told Qiu Niang about Zhou Ying wanting to set them free and their decision.
Of course, Qi Yonglin also heard it and looked at the couple in surprise.
“What do you think, Brother Qi?” Gu Chengrui nodded and asked.
“If you want to get rid of your serfdom, 1’11 do it for you when we return to the capital.
“If you don’t want to and want to improve your cooking skills, you can become a chef in our restaurant when it opens.”
“You guys are planning to open a restaurant?” Qi Yonglin’s eyes lit up.
“Yes, there is a restaurant among the Emperor’s rewards. However, there is a shortage of ingredients now, so we must wait a year and a half before it can operate smoothly.”
Qi Yonglin and Haitang looked at each other. Ultimately, the two of them decided to stay, but the child would no longer be a serf.
After that, the two families quickly packed their stuff, rented two ox carts, and returned to the capital together.
After arriving in the capital, Zhou Ying went to the bailiff’s office to complete the procedures according to their request. She temporarily arranged for their family to live in their residence’s backyard.
She also asked them to keep an eye on the renovation.
After they left, Mrs. Zhao took their household registration and said excitedly, “I didn’t expect that we would be freed from serfdom.”
“Alright, this is a good thing for the future of the two children.
“But this time, we’re in significant debt to them. With our family’s situation, taking the initiative to redeem ourselves will cost us at least 50 taels each.
“So you all must remember this favor in the future.
“Also, consider whether you want to return to the village to farm or stay here.
“You could do some small business if you choose to stay here. But no matter what you do, you can’t stay in this residence for long and must find a place to live quickly.” Qiu Niang reminded them.
“Indeed. Since you’re no longer a serf, staying here for long is not good.” Zhou Dasheng echoed.
“Since none of you are returning to the village, we will stay here too. We want to have a shop and do some small business.” Zhou Dong said.
Mrs. Zhao pondered for a moment and did not refute.
Firstly, the capita’s academy was a great chance for their children. Secondly, her parents-in-law were all here, and they could help each other out if there was anything.
Moreover, her mother-in-law and sister-in-law were both skilled. They wouldn’t lose money even if they opened a small shop selling food or snacks.
“What do you mean you want a shop? Even if Ying’er has an empty shop, you can use it but can’t take it for yourself.
“Otherwise, you might as well stay as a serf.
“Moreover, if you earn money from that shop, even if you don’t pay the rent, you must show grat.i.tude. Otherwise, it will lead to problems sooner or later.”
“Indeed. Although Ying’er grew up with our mother’s milk; she’s only indebted to our parents, not us.” Haitang echoed.
Zhou Dong opened his mouth after hearing this but did not say anything else. After all, they needed Zhou Ying’s protection if they wanted to stay in the capital. They could only go so far with their requests.
On the other end, Zhou Ying heaved a sigh of relief after hearing their conversation.
If they did not know their limits, she planned to pay off her debts to them in one go and reduce their interactions in the future.
When they returned, the sky had already darkened. Just as they were about to return to the guest courtyard, one of the Third Prince’s personal guards, Guard Chu, walked over and said, “Lord Gu, Lady Gu, His Highness invites you to the main courtyard for dinner when you return.”
Gu Chengrui was initially surprised, but he knew there was a problem that needed to be discussed. He said, “Please lead the way, Guard Chu.”
“Please.” After Guard Chu finished speaking, he made an inviting gesture and led them to the main courtyard.
After entering the courtyard, they saw that Zhou Huaiming was also there. Gu Chengrui had already guessed an inkling of what was happening.
As expected, the Third Prince spoke before they could, “I invited you here for two purposes.
“One is to celebrate Brother Gu’s advancement to becoming a third grade officer in farming, and the other is my cousin’s leaving..”