Springtime Farming: A Happy Wife At Home

Chapter 2077: Good Life in the Country

No matter what tumultuous events unfolded elsewhere, tranquility reigned supreme in Anze Province. The common folk showered Lord Shao with gratitude, attributing their peace and prosperity solely to him.

Ever since Lord Shao’s arrival, Anze Province underwent a profound transformation. His absence would have rendered the province nonexistent today; such was his indelible impact.

Lord Shao’s influence permeated every facet of life. Amidst the turmoil plaguing the world, Anze Province clung to Lord Shao as its anchor.

Even the esteemed families echoed the sentiments of the commoners. Under Lord Shao’s stewardship, prosperity flourished. Yet, beneath their jubilant façade lingered apprehension. What if the court, in its whimsy, decided to relocate Lord Shao?

In these tumultuous times, a dependable magistrate was akin to ancestral protection. Pondering deeply, one could discern the dire consequences of an unreliable official exploiting chaos for personal gain, plunging the region into disarray with reckless abandon.

In that precarious moment, escape seemed an impossible feat; misfortune appeared inevitable for all.

Hence, Lord Shao’s presence was imperative…

Such sentiments resonated deeply. Anze City couldn’t afford to lose Lord Shao!

Under his stewardship, bountiful harvests became the norm—a testament to fortuitous favor.

But the looming possibility…

What if the court mandated Lord Shao’s transfer?

Anxiety gripped every soul.

Then, a voice, dripping with cynicism, cut through the tense air. “Is there even a court anymore? Which court holds sway? Lord Shao’s departure seems implausible. If we, the people, withhold our consent, the court’s authority wanes.”

His words shattered illusions, rousing the populace to reality. Consensus emerged amidst nods of agreement.

“Indeed!”

“Absolutely, that’s the way forward.”

“The imperial court can’t disregard our welfare. Why not assert our right to retain Lord Shao?”

“Hmph, should officials dare set foot here, we’ll simply drive them off.”

“Exactly!”

However, while voiced intentions to expel them were plenty, true conviction may have faltered. It wasn’t prudent to merely chase officials away; preemptive measures seemed wiser. Eliminating potential threats before they breached Anze Province proved safer.

There was no need for bloodshed. Rendering officials incapable of assuming control posed little challenge.

With this strategy in mind, Anze Province’s families found solace.

The winter this year proved exceptionally harsh. November ushered in biting winds and chilling airs, leaving folks shivering.

Over 4,000 refugees had already found sanctuary in Anze Province by this juncture, with no further influx in sight.

The expected had come to pass; no soul wandered the roads at this perilous time. Travelling in such bitter cold meant risking one’s life.

Furthermore, the three princes and various factions feverishly recruited manpower, with refugees being the prime target. Competition was fierce, leaving little for Anze Province to contend for.

Shao Yunduan issued a decree to dismantle all makeshift settlements beyond the city walls, reinstating them to their former state.

The absence of refugees turned out to be a blessing in disguise.

Unlike other regions, Shao Yunduan refused to treat those who sought refuge with him as mere chattel. He wouldn’t subject them to the callous whims of slavery—no arbitrary orders, no casual abuse, no lashes of indifference. Each new arrival found solace in knowing they wouldn’t be abandoned to despair. As long as they were willing and able to contribute, they were welcome to make Anze Province their home.