Chapter 1018: Greeting Mr. Primus

Translator: Henyee Translations Editor: Henyee Translations

Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan were taken aback by the overwhelming enthusiasm of the villagers. They had expected a warm welcome from their family, but they were surprised to see the entire village mobilized in such a grand manner.

While they were not individuals driven by fame or fortune, the sight before them ignited a spark of excitement in their hearts. They exchanged glances, their smiles reflecting the joy they felt.

Qiao Xuan playfully teased Shao Yunduan, “Look at you, Mr. Primus, commanding such admiration! No wonder scholars aspire for glory. Such acclaim is truly something to behold.”

Shao Yunduan smiled in response, his eyes filled with pride. “It is your deserved honor as well.”

Qiao Xuan’s heart fluttered at his words, their love and support for each other shining through their smiles.

The villagers, brimming with excitement, eagerly called out as they spotted Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan approaching.

“Here they come! Mr. Primus has returned!”

“Our esteemed Mr. Primus has graced us with his presence!”

“Let us welcome our esteemed Mr. Primus!”

“We must ensure that Mr. Primus receives a grand reception!”

The villagers couldn’t contain their joy, their faces lighting up with anticipation. They gathered around Ms. Fang, Eldest Uncle, the Land Officer, and a few revered elders of the village.

Approaching the group, they bowed respectfully, their voices filled with reverence.

“Greetings, Mr. Primus! We bow and pay our respects!”

“We humbly greet Mr. Primus!”

The sudden turn of events caught Ms. Fang, Eldest Uncle, and the others off guard. Their expressions showed a mix of surprise and anxiety, unsure of how to respond to such an exuberant display.

Yang Xiaoni was stunned and subconsciously knelt down.

Shao Sanlang.

Witnessing this, Ms. Xu hesitated for a moment before deciding to join them in kneeling.

Shao Yunduan and Qiao Xuan were dumbfounded by the sight before them.

“No!” they exclaimed simultaneously, quickly stepping out of the carriage and rushing forward.

Shao Yunduan assisted the Land Officer to rise, while Qiao Xuan helped the female elders to their feet. Calling out, “Dad, Mom!” she addressed Ms. Xu and Yang Xiaoni, caught between laughter and tears. “Sister-in-law, Third Sister-in-law, please stand up! This is unnecessary!”

Upon seeing her two daughters-in-law kneeling, Ms. Fang grew infuriated. “What are you doing? Eldest Son, Third Son, have you lost your minds as well?”

Shao Dalang and Shao Sanlang swiftly helped their wives to their feet.

Yang Xiaoni chuckled in embarrassment. “Oh, my legs simply gave out. I saw everyone else kneeling, so I followed suit…”

Laughter filled the air as the tension dissipated. The family elders shared in the mirth, wiping away their tears. They then proceeded back to the village with Shao Yunduan, while Qiao Xuan accompanied the esteemed female family elder and Ms. Fang.

The villagers gathered around, joining the celebratory procession as they returned to the village.

The gates of the ancestral hall swung open, and Shao Yunduan, accompanied by the Land Officer, entered to pay their respects, offering kowtows and incense as a means of conveying the auspicious news to their ancestors.

Afterward, they made their way back home.

Due to the suddenness of the news, preparations had been made hastily. Fortunately, the spacious first section of the Shao Family could accommodate the influx of guests, and every room was filled with joy and celebration.

Qiao Xuan and Ms. Fang instructed the servants to prepare tea for the elders and arranged for the ceremonial team to temporarily settle in Shao Xiaoqi’s yard, ensuring they had provisions and seating arrangements.

Meanwhile, Shao Yunduan swiftly took charge of the cooking duties. With an array of meats available, he quickly set up two tables. However, the kitchen alone was insufficient, so he sought assistance from their generous neighbors.

Just as Qiao Xuan was about to join in the cooking process, Ms. Fang and Ms. Xu intervened.

“No, no, you don’t need to do this!”

“Fifth Sister-in-law, please return to your room and rest. Third Sister-in-law and I will handle it.”

Qiao Xuan was taken aback, only comprehending the situation after a moment.