Chapter 44

Chapter 44

Before dawn on Lantern Festival, the Tang family was already stirring.

Tang Jianjun, who had not risen early since the start of winter, also got out of bed before sunrise today.

Xu Shengli and Xu Xiangqian, though barely able to keep their eyes open, struggled to get up from bed as well.

For them, this wasn't their home; they could never sleep soundly.

Moreover, the heated brick bed felt warm at first, even a bit hot, but by the late night, without anyone adding more firewood, it started to cool down, not as comfortable as before.

The whole family was moving around, except for Tang Xingqiang, who lay in bed as steady as a mountain.

"Tang Xingqiang, if you don't get up now, your father and the others will leave," Zhao Dahuahua urged him.

Tang Xingqiang opened his eyes irritably, his voice still hoarse:

"Why go so early? It's like Auntie is begging to go back, afraid she won't be able to return if she's late. Why should we cater to their whims? We should make them wait a bit."

Upon hearing this, Tang Jianjun immediately stopped what he was doing.

That's right, rushing out early would only make the Xu family feel smug!

They were getting up early because it was Lantern Festival, and they needed to return after going to town.

But the Xu family definitely didn't think that way; they must believe themselves clever for coming up with this plan to control the Tang family.

Tang Jianjun suddenly felt less urgent. The Xu family hadn't even come to apologize personally, which was already infuriating enough. They couldn't act so eager to run to town.

The more he thought about it, the more he felt this matter couldn't be left unresolved. Xu Taian beating his wife was one thing, but Tang Guizhi had been back at her parents' house for days, and the Xu family had shown no sign of remorse. This was unacceptable.

How much ridicule they had endured in the village! They couldn't let this slide.

Because of Tang Jianguo, their family had been quite prestigious in the village over the years. If they acted so eager, what would everyone think?

Why did Xu Taian dare to beat his wife? Wasn't it because he looked down on their family? If he had married the daughter of the station chief, would he dare to lift a finger against her?

Tang Jianjun felt increasingly uneasy, believing this matter needed reevaluation. Otherwise, the Xu family would always look down on them and mock him for being spineless.

Seeing Tang Jianjun take off his shoes and climb back onto the heated brick bed, Zhao Dahuahua was puzzled:

"Why are you getting back into bed?"

"We're not rushing to town today. Let's go tomorrow."

"What?" Zhao Dahuahua was shocked. "Why not go? Guizhi and the two kids are waiting."

"Go tell them they can return tomorrow. If she insists on going back today, she shouldn't come back here afterward."

Zhao Dahuahua couldn't believe it. What was he thinking?

"Didn't we agree yesterday to send them back today?"

Tang Jianjun had already taken off his coat and was getting back under the covers.

"Now that the Xu family's two grandsons are here, we have the upper hand. Since they sent the children over, they can celebrate the festival at their grandmother's house."

"But won't they be furious?"

"So be it. We need to show some backbone and make them realize we're not pushovers."

After being called a coward by his own son, Tang Jianjun had been feeling resentful.

Now he realized that if he didn't do something, his children wouldn't respect him anymore.

Zhao Dahuahua tried to persuade him a few more times, but Tang Jianjun remained unmoved.

"Think about it. If we eagerly send them back, how demeaning!"

Eventually, Zhao Dahuahua gave up. Though she didn't think it was a good idea, keeping the three of them an extra day meant using more food.

Yesterday, Grandma had brought out many good things to treat the two grandsons, fearing any neglect.

But since her husband had made up his mind, there was nothing she could do. She tried to see the bright side.

Still worried, she went out to talk to Grandma Wu about it.

Grandma Wu was also confused: "What? Why aren't they going today?"

"I don't know what he's thinking. Everything was packed, and then he suddenly went back to bed."

Grandma Wu was concerned: "If they don't go back for Lantern Festival, won't the Xu family be furious? Can they still be in-laws?"

Tang Guizhi hadn't expected her brother to change his mind at the last minute.

She was anxious. Today was Lantern Festival, and staying with her children without celebrating with her husband's family might lead to more criticism later.

Though Zhao Dahuahua disagreed with Tang Jianjun's decision, since he had made it, she wouldn't undermine him.

Seeing Tang Guizhi eager to go home, she scoffed inwardly. Before, she said she wouldn't go back and stayed stubbornly. Now that they wouldn't let her leave, she wanted to go back. Having such relatives was truly a curse.

"Your brother said if you leave today, don't come back. The Xu family is trampling our family's dignity. If you don't stand up to them, don't come back and make us suffer too."

Tang Guizhi wilted immediately. Initially, she had been hesitant about returning, gaining confidence only with her brother's support.

Now, with Tang Jianjun taking this stance, she wilted again.

But the two children were not having it. They had been dragged out of bed early in the morning only to be told they weren't going today. Wasn’t this just playing with them?

Especially Xu Shengli, the elder one, kept shouting, "Mom, I want to go back! I want to go back!"

His younger brother, Xu Qianjin, also started crying, "I want Grandma, I want Grandma."

Zhao Dahua found an excuse and left immediately, ignoring the children's tantrums.

At the door, she heard Old Lady Wu coaxing them, "Grandma’s house has good things..."

Hearing this, Zhao Dahua immediately widened her eyes and hurried back to her room to pull the three children, who had lain down like their grandfather, back up.

Tang Xingwang was quite unhappy. "Mom, didn’t Dad say we’re going to town tomorrow? Why are you waking us up?"

"Your grandma is trying to lure those two outsiders with good things. If you don’t get up, you won’t even get a whiff of anything."

Upon hearing this, even Tang Xingqiang, who was half-asleep, suddenly opened his eyes wide.

He no longer looked sleepy and quickly got out of bed, dressed, and rushed over.

Tang Xingwang and Tang Xingsheng also moved swiftly, and the three brothers all crowded into the main room.

The Xu brothers continued to cry, no matter how much they were coaxed.

Tang Xingqiang directly mocked Xu Shengli, "A man should bleed and sweat but never cry. You’re such a coward. Even the little girls in our village don’t cry as much as you do. From now on, we’ll call you Crybaby Xu Sister, and your brother Xu Little Sister. Hahahaha!"

Xu Shengli, at his age, already cared about his face. He refused the good things offered by Old Lady Wu and Tang Guizhi earlier and even wanted to throw them away.

Now, hearing Tang Xingqiang mock him for being a girl, he stopped crying, wiped his tears, and started arguing with Tang Xingqiang.

Inside the main room, it was lively. Tang Qingqing listened for a while, then ultimately pulled Tang Qiaoqiao back to sleep.

Zhai Hongyi had said that sleep was very important for growing taller, so they should get more rest.

Tang Qiaoqiao asked, puzzled, "Sis, aren’t we going to town today?"

"Not going. Let’s sleep a bit more."

"Why aren’t we going?"

"Uncle is dealing with the Xu family. It’s none of our business, so let’s sleep."

Tang Qiaoqiao listened to Tang Qingqing and, still feeling sleepy, closed her eyes and fell asleep soon after.

Tang Qingqing couldn’t understand why Tang Jianjun had suddenly changed his mind. She thought Tang Jianjun only cared about taking advantage of situations and didn’t care about face.

But thinking about it, this might be better. The Xu family should be made anxious.

If they play such tricks, shouldn’t our family retaliate? We won’t let them have their way.

Tang Qingqing wasn’t sure if this would benefit Tang Guizhi in the future, but she knew that if they had gone back eagerly, unless Tang Jianjun fought back, things wouldn’t end well.

Since it wouldn’t end well either way, they might as well enjoy themselves now.

With this thought, Tang Qingqing felt at ease and went back to sleep.

The Tang family remained calm, while the Xu family was like ants on a hot pan.

Zhang Cuixiang had cleaned both inside and outside the house early in the morning and had slaughtered the chicken bought at the market yesterday. She also hid the pork bought from the supply store early in the morning.

She put away valuable items like flour and White Rabbit cookies, leaving only some sunflower seeds and cheap fruit candies on the table.

She planned well. Today was the Lantern Festival, and even if the Tang family brought Tang Guizhi and the children back, they would surely rush back home for the festival.

By noon, she could serve them a simple meal and send them off.

If they didn’t come, it would be even better, as she wouldn’t need to prepare even coarse grains and pickles.

But she waited all morning without any sign of them. She had checked the door countless times.

"Grandma Shengli, where are Shengli and Qianjin? Why haven’t they come back yet?"

Neighbors who saw her couldn’t help but ask.

In the unit housing area, any small event spread quickly, and secrets were hard to keep.

Xu Shengli and Xu Qianjin were particularly noisy, often running around outside even in winter, and making a racket at home.

Everyone knew the children weren’t home now.

Moreover, the town was small, and the whole street could be walked in a short time.

Yesterday, many people from the station went to the market, and some saw what Zhang Cuixiang did, finding it odd and talking about it. So it wasn’t a secret anymore.

Everyone in the housing complex knew that Tang Guizhi, Xu’s daughter-in-law, had run back to her parents’ house on the second day of the New Year and hadn’t returned since. At first, excuses were made, but eventually, everyone knew there was trouble brewing, and many were waiting to see the outcome.

"They’ll be back soon. Something came up on the way."

Zhang Cuixiang’s expression was not good, and she cursed Tang Guizhi inwardly, vowing to give her a harsh scolding when she returned.

How could a married woman abandon her children and stay away for so long? And now, it was already so late, and she still hadn’t brought the children back!

Today was the Lantern Festival; this was really going too far!

Caught in the act, Zhang Cuixiang couldn’t wander outside anymore, lest she be laughed at even more.

When Xu Guangjin and Xu Taian returned at noon, seeing that Tang Guizhi and the children hadn’t come back, they frowned.

"What’s wrong with Xiao Tang? Why hasn’t she come back yet!" Xu Guangjin was quite displeased.

Zhang Cuixiang consoled, "Country folks aren't reliable. They should be here by this afternoon, saving us a meal."

Although Xu Taian was unhappy, he didn't say anything, but seeing the cold kitchen at lunchtime made him even more displeased.

"Mom, what time is it? Where's the food?"

Zhang Cuixiang slapped her thigh. "I forgot! I'll start cooking right away."

"Mom, what do you do all day at home? How could you forget to cook? Do you want to starve us to death?"

"It'll be ready soon, it'll be ready soon."

Zhang Cuixiang bustled around in the kitchen for a long time. She had put many things away, making it very troublesome to find them now.

By the time Xu Guangjin and Xu Taian could eat, it was already late, and they had to go to work shortly after.

Both were very dissatisfied as they left, but their anger was mostly directed at Tang Guizhi.

If Tang Guizhi hadn't run back to her parents' house, this wouldn't have happened. Zhang Cuixiang was getting old and forgetful, but Tang Guizhi was still young and a better cook.

As time passed, Zhang Cuixiang grew increasingly anxious. Even if she had to crawl, she should have arrived by now.

But while other families were preparing dinner for the Lantern Festival, there was still no sign of her.

Zhang Cuixiang kept peeking out the window while preparing dinner, her mind elsewhere.

When Xu Guangjin and Xu Taian returned from work, they saw the empty, quiet house and their faces darkened.

The table was set with an impressive spread, including hearty dishes, tangyuan, and dumplings, filling the entire table.

On any other day, they would have dug in immediately.

But now, no one reached for their chopsticks. The three of them stared at each other, devoid of any festive atmosphere.

They never expected that not only had Tang Guizhi not returned, but the two children were also missing!

"Look at what you've done! During such a festival, not a single child at home—what kind of festival is this!"

Xu Guangjin was furious and slammed his hand on the table.

Zhang Cuixiang was both angry and scared. How could she have known that Tang Guizhi would be so bold, not returning even for the Lantern Festival? Didn't she fear losing Xu Taian?

"How could I know she'd be so daring, running back to her parents' house without a care? If she truly cared about Xu Taian and our family, she wouldn't have done this."

Xu Taian's face darkened even further. "I'll beat her to death when she comes back!"

But what good were threats now? Tang Guizhi not coming back was one thing, but the children not returning ruined the festival entirely.

Hearing the laughter from next door, their family of three felt isolated during the festival, and even the best-prepared meal lost its flavor.

Meanwhile, at the Tang household, the scene was different.

Though their table wasn't as lavish as the Xu family's, the lively atmosphere made everyone, including Tang Qingqing, immersed in the festival spirit.

Xu Shengli and Xu Qianjin stopped causing trouble. It seemed Tang Xingqiang had taken Xu Shengli somewhere fun, and now the brothers got along well, sticking together for everything.

Though Xu Shengli looked down on the Tang family due to his family's influence, he was still a child at heart, eager to play.

Tang Xingqiang was skilled at playing and was the leader among his peers in the village.

Without adult interference, Xu Shengli quickly bonded with Tang Xingqiang, sledding and spinning tops, running around the village with a group of kids.

Xu Qianjin followed closely behind. Despite being younger, he was often left out, but now he was included and played happily without feeling neglected.

Xu Qianjin was engaged and didn't feel left out because his brother went off to play. He didn't cause any trouble and didn't want to go home.

Tang Xingqiang whispered to Tang Qingqing, "City kids are easy to fool; take them out to play a few rounds, and they forget about going home."

"They're just kids; who doesn't like to play?"

"Pity it's too short. If they stayed a few more days, I guarantee they'd stand up for Auntie if they saw her being hit."

"They saw Auntie being hit?"

"Usually, Grandma pulls them away. Their grandma says wives who don't obey should be beaten."

Tang Qingqing frowned deeply. "How can they teach kids like that? Will these two ever learn right?"

"Exactly," Tang Xingqiang nodded vigorously. "If I marry a wife, I'd spoil her rotten. Why would I ever hit her?"

Tang Qingqing chuckled. "You little one, thinking about marriage already?"

Tang Xingqiang blushed slightly. "I'll definitely marry a beautiful wife someday."

This reminded Tang Qingqing that in the book, Tang Xingqiang did indeed marry a beautiful wife. Regardless of how he was portrayed in the book, he treated his wife well.

After he was imprisoned, his wife tirelessly sought help for him, even threatening others.

The reason this woman was mentioned was because the protagonist refused to help, leading to the protagonist's stepson almost being harmed.

In the book, this family caused the protagonist much trouble.

However, they were mostly nuisances outside, unable to harm the main characters significantly, serving only to advance the plot.

Since this incident was part of the book's epilogue, it was briefly mentioned without detailed descriptions. Tang Qingqing didn't know the specifics about the woman.

The next day, Tang Jianjun didn't hold back anymore. In his heart, he was actually somewhat fearful, worried that things had gone too far with the first two families.

So early in the morning, he woke up all the children, preparing to go to town early to send Tang Guizhi and her children back.

Tang Xingqiang went to find Tang Qingqing: "Did you see Dad's expression? He must be regretting it."

Tang Jianjun is just that kind of person. Every time he tries to be tough, he quickly backs down, which is why people tend to look down on him.

What's the point of regretting it now after everything has been done?

Yesterday, Tang Jianjun enthusiastically took a group of children to town, hoping to get some handouts.

Today, it's different; taking the children along is more for courage.

"Then your father won't be able to support Aunt today. That half can of fruit preserves..."

Tang Xingqiang quickly interrupted: "Why are you in such a hurry! We haven't even gone yet."

"Do you have a plan? Didn't you see how he buttoned his shirt wrong earlier? It'll be hard for him to even say a complete sentence when the time comes."

Tang Qingqing couldn't bear to watch; she had never seen a man so cowardly.

He acts tough at home and looks down on others in the village, but as soon as he faces someone from the government office in town, he becomes like this.

"Just wait and keep the can of preserves!"

For breakfast, the Tang family didn't prepare much. Everyone just had a steamed sweet potato to fill their stomachs.

Old Lady Wu had calculated well, planning for them to eat at the in-laws' place in town today. Tang Guizhi had stayed at her parents' house for many days, consuming quite a bit of food, so they couldn't lose out.

They had planned to leave early in the morning, but Tang Xingqiang and the Xu brothers dragged their feet until the sun came up before they finally left leisurely.

Tang Jianjun didn't dare to rush them, thinking that it was most important for the nephews to have fun.

This way, the two families could continue to interact, making it easier to pass through this situation.

The children liked their grandmother's house, so they planned to spend the Lantern Festival there. They were doing it for the children.

The Tang family marched out of the village, drawing curiosity from the villagers.

"Where are you all going?"

Before Tang Jianjun could answer, Tang Xingqiang interjected:

"Uncle, we're going to town to fight!"

"What? What kind of fight?"

Tang Jianjun quickly scolded: "Stop talking nonsense!"

"I'm not talking nonsense, Uncle. You don't know how bad my uncle-in-law is; he almost beat my aunt to death. Can our Tang family take this kind of loss? Today, we're going to support my aunt!"

As Tang Xingqiang spoke, he didn't forget to ask the Xu brothers:

"Didn't your father hit your mother?"

It was unclear what Tang Xingqiang had told the brothers earlier, but both of them clenched their fists and agreed: "Yes, my father hit my mother!"

Family scandals should not be aired publicly, but they had kept it hidden. Unexpectedly, Tang Xingqiang shouted it out loud.

Tang Jianjun's face turned grim, and Tang Guizhi felt embarrassed.

But children speak without restraint, and it's hard to stop them.

Ignoring Tang Jianjun's objections, Tang Xingqiang loudly proclaimed:

"Can our Tang family women be beaten around? Can the people of our Rongshan Brigade be bullied by outsiders? Absolutely not! If they beat our married daughter today, they might come to beat us tomorrow. We have to stand up to them, or our whole brigade will lose face!"

Children who played with Tang Xingqiang also ran out, joining in the commotion:

"Fight them! We're the best in Rongshan Brigade!"

Even Wang Heizi came out. Although he wasn't originally part of Tang Xingqiang's group and often clashed with him over territory, he joined in the shouting, raising his fist. A group of half-grown children ignored the morning chill and came out to support.

The scene was somewhat impressive. Tang Qingqing felt a surge of excitement.

No wonder Tang Xingqiang would become a pyramid scheme leader later; look at his ability to persuade people. He had it since childhood.

The Xu brothers also had red faces, shouting along, completely forgetting they were going to confront their father.

The children's voices drew out those who were staying at home. With nothing to do in winter, everyone came out to see the commotion.

"Third Tang, are you going to support Guizhi?"

Tang Jianjun, being a man of pride, couldn't deny it.

With his hands behind his back, he looked serious: "Of course. Our family is being bullied; we can't just let it slide."

"Not bad, Third Tang. I used to think you were a coward, but you're actually quite brave, standing up to such a powerful brother-in-law."

"That's right. We need to show everyone that our brigade's daughters can't be bullied."

Everyone has daughters in their families. Regardless of whether they spoil them at home or hit their wives, if someone else bullies them, it affects their honor.

Moreover, very few people truly have no feelings for their daughters and sisters. After living together for so long, bonds have formed.

If this commotion lets the outsiders know that the girls of Rongshan Team are not to be bullied, it would also bring honor to the head of Rongshan Team.

Worried that no one will dare to marry the girls from Rongshan Team afterward?

In these times, only men can't find wives; there's no such thing as women who can't get married. If they don't marry out, it's perfect for internal absorption, which is quite nice too.

Regardless of what everyone thinks or their motives, the slogan has been raised, and no one will drag their feet or say anything against it.

Any other thoughts will only be whispered behind closed doors and won't be voiced at this moment.

Thus, the group marched off to town with great vigor, and those unaware might think it was a troop of scouts going to war.

Away from the village, Tang Xingqiang gave Tang Qingqing a wink: "How about it? Wasn't my move good?"

Tang Qingqing gave him a thumbs-up, "One more candy."

"Three."

"Two, take it or leave it."

"Deal!"

After confirming his reward, Tang Xingqiang ran off to do some ideological work with the Xu brothers.

Tang Qiaoqiao, seeing their interaction, was quite surprised.

"Sis, when did you two become so close?"

On the other side, Tang Xingsheng, observing Tang Qingqing's expression, found it very intriguing.

Tang Qingqing's heart tightened; jealousy and envy could arise among siblings.

Tang Qingqing used to be closest to Tang Qiaoqiao, but recently, Tang Xingsheng had been sticking closely to her, causing Tang Qiaoqiao to feel threatened and cling even more tightly to Tang Qingqing.

However, Tang Xingsheng didn't like talking much; he just silently followed along, and Tang Qiaoqiao's vigilance gradually faded, eventually accepting her cousin's presence.

Tang Qingqing keenly sensed these undercurrents.

To make everyone happy, she put in a lot of effort.

For example, when interacting with Tang Qiaoqiao, she always stated that she was her dearest sister, and no one could replace her position.

In front of Tang Xingsheng, she wouldn't treat him like Tang Qiaoqiao; instead, she tried to be fair, making Tang Xingsheng feel that if he did well, he could receive the same treatment as others in front of Tang Qingqing.

This was crucial for Tang Xingsheng, who had long been neglected by his parents.

Now, with the addition of Tang Xingqiang, whose presence was particularly strong and who could go astray without proper guidance, Tang Qingqing didn't want a smart child like him to end up on the wrong path, potentially causing trouble for herself.

Therefore, she wouldn't reject him entering her small world.

But she couldn't hurt those already in her world, who were wary of Tang Xingqiang because he received more affection than they did.

They worried that Tang Xingqiang would steal all of Tang Qingqing's attention, just as he did with others.

After pondering for a moment, Tang Qingqing said:

"He's quite clever; sometimes, we can give him something to do."

Hearing this, Tang Qiaoqiao and Tang Xingsheng visibly relaxed.

Tang Qiaoqiao: "Sis, you're only playing with him because you need him to do things?"

"Not entirely. After all, he's our brother. He's so clever that he might easily go astray, so we need to keep an eye on him. Outsiders see us as a family, and if he turns bad, it reflects poorly on all of us."

Tang Qiaoqiao and Tang Xingsheng both found this reasonable. Tang Xingsheng said, "Sis, I'll watch over him from now on."

Tang Qingqing nodded approvingly: "A hero needs three helpers; a single chopstick is easy to break. To live well, we must unite all possible forces."

The two children nodded heavily, feeling a sense of responsibility.

Tang Qingqing secretly breathed a sigh of relief; it was fortunate that these two were easy to persuade. With Tang Xingqiang, it wouldn't have been so simple.

The group played and laughed along the way, not feeling tired despite walking a long distance.

Even little Xu Qianjin occasionally insisted on walking himself, but the others found his short legs too slow, so Tang Guizhi often carried him.

Upon entering the hydrology station compound, Tang Xingqiang cleared his throat and began singing the national anthem loudly:

"Arise, those who refuse to be slaves—"

The anthem was taught by the educated youths, and its significance left a deep impression on Tang Xingqiang, who remembered many of the lyrics.

The song resonated deeply, and everyone joined in singing.

The commotion drew many curious heads, wondering what was happening.

"Guizhi, you've brought the kids back? These are your relatives? Quite a few of them."

Tang Guizhi felt somewhat embarrassed; returning after so many days away from her in-laws' home seemed inappropriate.

Now bringing so many relatives, she hadn't thought much of it until entering the compound, where she sensed something amiss.

She nodded awkwardly, reluctant to elaborate.

Tang Xingqiang stopped singing and greeted the onlookers, shouting loudly:

"Hello, uncles, aunts, grandpas, brothers, and sisters! We're from Rongshan Team. Today, we came to ask if city people can beat up country folks and if officials can punch poor peasants?"

Don't even mention others; even Tang Qingqing, who knew that Tang Xingqiang would cause trouble, almost choked.

This was a very serious accusation. If someone responded carelessly, they could end up in trouble, as the accusations were quite severe.

"Who is spreading such nonsense! Workers and peasants are close as family; poor peasant cadres are part of the proletariat! They are indispensable members of socialist construction. You young one, you mustn't speak recklessly."

Those who had been watching the spectacle all got a fright and dared not remain silent, fearing that any delay might indicate a problem with their ideology.

These days, things were so volatile that even speaking at home required caution, for fear that there might be ears on the other side of the wall.

The Xu family heard the commotion and initially intended to put on airs by deliberately not coming out to greet them, but they kept their ears pricked to listen to what was happening outside.

When they heard this particular statement, they nearly fainted from shock.

The family of three rushed out immediately, and even Xu Taian did not dare stay inside.

Zhang Cuixiang wore a kind expression and smiled warmly.

"Dear grandchildren, you're back. Come over and let Grandma give you a big hug. Taian, quickly invite your brother-in-law and the children into the house; dinner will be ready soon. Guizhi, how have you been during your visit to your parents' home? Is your mother's health okay?"

Although Xu Guangjin and Xu Taian did not display Zhang Cuixiang's warm attitude, they tried to look more relaxed.

The Xu brothers instinctively moved forward but were pulled back by Tang Xingqiang, causing them to stop.

Tang Xingqiang, the little one, stepped forward, hands on his hips, and said:

"Comrade Xu Taian, are you dissatisfied with Comrade Tang Guizhi being a poor peasant? Do you take advantage of your status as a state cadre to frequently beat her?"

Xu Taian, directly named, was startled and couldn't dodge the question.

Though Tang Xingqiang was just a child, his words carried significant weight.

In those days, the most frightening thing was children, as the ones causing the most trouble were often half-grown kids.

If a child spoke out of turn, it might not be a big issue, but if an adult did, it was a different matter entirely.

"There's no such thing; how could it be possible?"

"Then, is it true that you beat Tang Guizhi?"

Just as Xu Taian was about to deny it, Tang Qingqing shouted loudly: "If you lie, it shows disloyalty to the revolution and dissatisfaction with socialist policies!"

These statements were clearly baseless, but with so many people watching, Xu Taian didn't dare treat them lightly.

"That was just a minor marital dispute; how can it be linked to these matters?"

Tang Xingqiang: "Are you a state cadre?"

"Yes."

"Is Tang Guizhi a poor peasant by birth?"

"...Yes."

"Then it's a state cadre beating a poor peasant, and since you show no remorse, it means you believe cadres can beat poor peasants!"

Other children also started shouting, and even the Xu brothers, who didn't understand the situation, joined in.

They didn't really grasp the meaning, but following Tang Xingqiang's lead seemed right, remembering the impressive scene that morning.

It was truly awe-inspiring!

Xu Taian glared, wondering how a child could talk like this and wanting to teach them a lesson.

However, this child spoke logically, unlike typical children who just blabber nonsense. With so many onlookers, he was cornered.

He quickly looked at Tang Guizhi, hoping she would say something.

Tang Guizhi herself was stunned, never expecting a half-grown child to create such a scene.

No, she should have guessed, considering the commotion when they left the village earlier.

Seeing Tang Jianjun still standing there dumbfounded, Tang Qingqing secretly kicked him.

Regardless, they were still children, and many adults didn't take their words seriously. This situation needed an adult's intervention.

Tang Jianjun stumbled, wanting to scold Tang Qingqing, but seeing everyone's attention on him, he knew he couldn't avoid it.

If he backed down now, he wouldn't be able to maintain authority later, especially since these children would surely spread the news around the village.

He cleared his throat: "Comrade Xu Taian, your thinking is problematic."

"I only hit my wife; it's a domestic issue. Don't exaggerate it."

Zhang Cuixiang also chimed in: "Exactly, which couple doesn't fight? Couples make up after quarrels; what are you doing here?"

"Small incidents reveal larger issues. Who knows if you're using the guise of marriage to vent your dissatisfaction with the poor," Tang Qingqing said.

Tang Xingqiang: "That's right. I've never seen anyone beat their wife to death. Oh, yes, there was an incident a few days ago where someone in Tian Dong Brigade beat his wife to death and is now facing execution."

Someone who had heard the news couldn't help but interject:

"I heard about it yesterday when I returned from the commune. At first, the murderer claimed his wife had run away, but it turned out he had beaten her to death."

The scene became noisy, and soon the station chief of the hydrology station arrived, glaring at Xu Taian before hurriedly seeking Tang Jianjun to speak well of the Xu family.

If this incident escalated here, he, as a leader, would face severe consequences.

Tang Jianjun saw that the leaders had stepped in, so he told the children to stop making a fuss and not escalate the conflict.

Tang Qingqing and Tang Xingqiang exchanged a glance and both retreated to the back, staying silent.

Tang Qingqing whispered, "You sure know how to spin a tale. I underestimated you."

At such a young age, knowing how to bring up these issues—truly adept at bluffing.

"Hehe, isn't everyone afraid of this now?"

There are still people in our brigade who are locked up in cowsheds, and those from the black five categories are the easiest targets for criticism and education.

Tang Xingqiang has heard it all before. Though he may not fully understand what it means, he knows how to use such public opinion.

With all this commotion, the Xu family won't be able to easily dismiss this as a marital dispute.

Though they won't take it too seriously, after all, they're just a bunch of kids, what can they do?

But this is enough to let the Xu family know that the Tang family has a group of children who aren't to be trifled with.

These kids may be young but their voices are loud. If you act recklessly, they'll dare to slander and make a scene.

It's said that the tough fear the shameless, and that's exactly what they're going to do.

As long as they care about their reputation and want to continue working in the unit, they can't go too far.

They won't think they can hit as they please without consequences.

What about after the couple reconciles?

They were criticizing those who disrupt the unity of workers, peasants, and soldiers; who would dare say their proactive behavior was wrong?

Tang Xingqiang winked at Tang Qingqing, "Was it worth giving away your canned goods?"

Tang Qingqing sincerely replied, "Worth it, totally worth it."

Tang Qingqing watched as Xu Taian apologized to Tang Guizhi under the station chief's criticism, and Tang Guizhi was moved to tears, quickly saying she was also at fault. Tang Qingqing felt a mix of emotions.

They've done what they could; what happens next is up to her.

Women should be tough, or else they'll be easily bullied.

One must have skills, so when something happens, they won't be kicked out of their home and left with nowhere to go.

Before leaving, the station chief spoke to Tang Xingqiang, "You, kid, young but capable."

"I'm a successor to socialism!" Tang Xingqiang said, chin raised, "I'll come around to inspect work frequently in the future."

The station chief couldn't help but laugh, rubbing his head, "Good kid, you've got guts. Alright, welcome to visit often."

As they were about to enter the house, Tang Xingqiang didn't forget to call out to the onlookers.

"Uncles, aunts, brothers, sisters, please keep an eye out and report any trouble to our Rongshan Brigade."

Someone laughed, "Any rewards?"

"There will be, thank-you letters from poor peasant brothers."

"Oh, little brat, you know how to write thank-you letters? Can you even read?"

"I start school this year, besides, my sister can. She scored full marks in first, second, and third grades!"

Tang Qingqing hurriedly pulled him inside before he could brag more.

So many people crowded into the already small living room of the Xu family, making it feel almost bursting with people.

The atmosphere in the room was tense. The commotion outside had almost made Xu Guangjin unable to catch his breath, and he had to take some quick-acting heart pills to recover.

Who knew the Tang family's children could cause such a ruckus, turning a domestic issue into a class struggle.

Xu Taian felt humiliated today, being manipulated like this, and was furious.

Now that they were inside, the warmth from earlier vanished. Tang Guizhi stood there, unsure of what to do.

She began to worry about how they would live after causing such a scene.

Tang Guizhi couldn't even blame anyone; should she blame a child for not knowing better?

Tang Jianjun didn't know what to say either. He had been confident earlier, but now, feeling calmer, he thought the whole ordeal was too embarrassing. Would the Xu family be happy? How would they interact in the future?

For a moment, no one spoke, and the room, despite being full of people, was eerily quiet.

The children sensed the tension and dared not make a sound.

Of course, this did not include Tang Xingqiang.