I Came From Heaven [Transmigration/Time-Travel] - Chapter 13

Chapter 13

The attendants helped me find a large bunch of bamboo skewers, and then they got busy with their kitchen tasks. Since it was still early before the evening stall opening, I patiently taught Sixiao how to skewer the meat. Sixiao was a fast learner, but he kept arguing with me, meticulously complaining that the amount of meat I put on the skewers was too much and wouldn’t be profitable to sell.

“Little fellow, you just noticed today? Your brain is full of crooked ideas! Why are you so petty?”

“Look at the way you skewer it, you put so much meat on, we’re definitely going to lose money.”

I reached out and flicked his forehead: “You don’t know what you’re talking about. This is called being generous. How do repeat customers come back? This is how. Do you know? A merchant must be shrewd and cunning, but not dishonest.”

“Oh! Okay!”

“Little fellow, do you know where to buy flowers in Changshun City?”

“Of course, I do! Mama has connections!”

“That’s good. Once our stall is stable, I’ll give you a crucial mission!”

“What mission! What mission!”

Hearing that I was going to give him an assignment, the kid got instantly excited, like he’d been given a shot of adrenaline. I quickly pulled him close:

“Be quiet, I’ll tell you later tonight.”

…

💰 The Profits Roll In

The sky was painted with the glow of the sunset—it was time for me to shine. I had the attendants help me push the wooden cart and ingredients to the open space outside the Chun Sheng Lou. I set up the iron rack, used tongs to pile the burning charcoal underneath to preheat, and tied a makeshift apron cut from some old cloth around my waist.

I stood in front of the rack and placed a few skewers of tenderloin, grilling them enthusiastically and quickly sprinkling the seasonings. Soon, the smoke mixed with the aroma of meat spread throughout the air. Sixiao, his face flushed, shouted loudly:

“Passersby, don’t miss out! Chun Sheng Lou introduces special snacks today! The first five customers get a free skewer! No charge! You won’t be cheated, and you won’t lose out!”

I watched him jump up and down, shouting non-stop, and couldn’t help but laugh. I might have accidentally led this child astray. Hahaha, but it was really fun!

Soon, street pedestrians gathered around, whispering, wondering what I was selling. I quickly grilled a few skewers and had Sixiao distribute them for free to the onlookers. Customers who tasted it exclaimed that it was delicious and flavorful, and the news quickly spread through the crowd. Thus, our business successfully opened.

“Young man, young man, give me three meat skewers.”

“Boss, are there any other options?”

“How much is this?”

Instantly, a crowd of customers rushed the grill stall, eager to try something new, and the public clamor surged. I had to sincerely marvel that no matter the place or the dynasty, the existence of foodies is truly great!

The commotion on my side attracted the guests inside the Chun Sheng Lou, who also ran out to join the fun. In no time, customers for the grilled skewers came one after another.

I quickly spotted another business opportunity. Customers eating skewers don’t necessarily drink alcohol, but in Da Xuan, a place lacking modern resources, there weren’t many beverage options.

So, I decided that tomorrow, I would introduce a limited-time fresh-pressed juice item. Sixiao stood by my side, helping me and simultaneously acting as the cashier. ‘Bao Xia Ju’ also ran out. Seeing the good momentum of my business, she instructed the attendants inside to come out and help.

It seems I’ll need to make another grill rack tomorrow; otherwise, I really won’t be able to keep up. After sending away wave after wave of customers, I was drenched in sweat. Damn it, this grill rack was going to roast me alive too! I continued until all the ingredients I prepared were completely sold out, yet customers kept flocking to the stall.

“Oh, esteemed guests, I apologize. We’ve sold out of ingredients. You’ll have to come back tomorrow.”

I apologized as I sent off all the remaining customers, though my heart was singing with joy. Where there’s life, there’s hope. Those who didn’t get to eat would feel uncomfortable and annoyed, partly due to the trend, so the chances of them returning tomorrow were very high. I extinguished the charcoal fire under the grill rack and finally leaned against the side to rest.

“Kid, come here.”

After working all night, Sixiao’s face was also covered in fatigue, no longer the bouncing self he was earlier. It really was hard on this child. We simply sat down on the ground. He patted the bulging pouch in his clothes: “Big Brother Ji, we made a lot of money today.”

With that, his small hands reached into the pouch and transferred handfuls of silver bits and coins into my bag. His silly, honest demeanor was endearing. I genuinely had high hopes for this child. He was nothing like modern children, who grow up with silver spoons. At five or six years old, they are usually pampered and spoiled.

Forget about earning money; they probably need to be hand-fed. Growing up under this roof, I could see how much hardship he had endured reflected in his diligent and sensible attitude.

“I see the kids around here eat candied skewers. How much does that cost?”

Confused by my question, Sixiao thoughtfully propped his head up and finally held up one finger, probably meaning one coin. So, I took out two coins and placed them in his hand: “This is for you to buy candied skewers.”

“Big Brother Ji, this money is for you to pay back Mama. I can’t take it.”

This adorable, sensible child! I really wanted to kiss his little face. I put my arm around his shoulder, educating him like a big brother:

“You listen. Every bit of labor deserves its reward. This is what you earned through your hard work today. Your capability is worth more than this price. Big Brother Ji actually underpaid you, but after we earn more for a few days, I’ll give you even more in the future. Come on, let’s close the stall.”

Do you know how to be a good leader? Firstly, as a leader, I set a general direction. Secondly, Sixiao is a capable and obedient employee. To secure an employee’s loyalty, you must reward them financially while acknowledging their strengths. This is more effective than criticism or scolding because by validating his ability, it makes him understand he is useful, and thus, his motivation will be even stronger.

…

🤝 The New Deal

After cleaning up my stall, the commotion inside Chun Sheng Lou died down. I took Sixiao back to the room, told him to wash up and rest, and then took the day’s earnings to the madam’s room. I stood at the door and knocked politely:

“Mama, are you resting?”

“Stinky boy, come in.”

I kicked the door open and saw ‘Bao Xia Ju’ soaking her feet for health. I smiled, pulled out a chair, sat down, and unceremoniously poured myself a cup of tea:

“I hope I’m not disturbing Mama in the middle of the night.”

“I see you have some real skill after all.”

“Mama, you flatter me. This is today’s earnings. Please count it.”

I took out all the scattered money and neatly placed it on the table. ‘Bao Xia Ju’ began counting the money:

“Oh, deducting the cost of the ingredients you bought on credit, you made over twenty taels of silver in one night. I think you’ll be able to leave my Chun Sheng Lou soon.”

“Mama, didn’t I tell you? Would I dare to make this bet with you without a solid plan?”

“Don’t get too smug yet, boy. It’s not enough yet. Go on, go back to sleep.”

After a full day of commotion, I was indeed tired. I stretched and got up to leave the madam’s room. I took a leisurely stroll in the backyard, preparing to return to the storage room to rest, when Sixiao, the little imp, pushed open a door: “Big Brother Ji, you can sleep with me. The attendants have already prepared the bed for you.”

Oh my, how nice! He took my hand and led me into the room. Although simple, it was much cleaner than the storage room. I went back to the storage room and retrieved my hidden backpack: “Little rascal, are we good friends and brothers?”

“Of course, we are!”

“Look, this bag is very important. Help me hide it. What Heaven knows, the Earth knows, you know, and I know. Pinky swear!”

“Hiding what?”

Handan stood at the doorway, watching our sneaky actions. I slapped my forehead in frustration. She then slowly walked up to me: “Just that worn-out thing, and you’re being so secretive? There must be something improper inside.”

“Miss Handan, this is all my worldly possessions. Please don’t search it.”

“I don’t care for your shabby bag, but people come and go in this backyard. Someone might steal it one day.”

She had a point. I quickly shoved my bag into her arms: “Then I’ll trust you this once. You keep it for me.”

“You ask me to help you, and I should help you?”

“Sixiao, please beg your mother.”

It was time to use the ultimate weapon! Sixiao immediately grabbed Handan’s sleeve and whined: “Mommy~ Please keep it for Big Brother Ji!”

“You little brat, taking sides against me!”

Handan lovingly poked Sixiao’s forehead and finally agreed to help me. I sat on the edge of the bed, giving the mother and son some privacy. Handan brought some food, as usual. Sixiao happily devoured the pastry, looking blissful.

“Where is the child’s father?”

Finally, I asked a question I shouldn’t have, which instantly solidified the pleasant atmosphere. Handan looked at me, her face completely indifferent, and her tone turned cold: “Don’t you think you’re meddling too much, Young Master Ji?”

“Sijie misspoke carelessly. I didn’t mean to offend you, Miss Handan. Please forgive me.”

“It’s getting late. You two have been bustling around outside all night, and the whole establishment is talking about the stall. You should rest early.”

“Alright, then I won’t see you out, Miss Handan. Rest assured, Sixiao is staying with me.”

After watching Handan leave, I collapsed onto the bed, feeling the exhaustion hit me hard. Sixiao was excitedly jumping on the bed:

“Now someone will sleep with me!”

“You brat, settle down! What are you shouting about in the middle of the night? Aren’t you afraid Mama will come down and scold you?”

I reached out and grabbed his tiny legs. He immediately covered his mouth with his hands, turning his round eyes toward me. We lay head-to-head. The little guy whispered the answer to my question about his mother: “I’ve never met my father.”

He took out a jade pendant from his clothes, carefully caressing it, and continued: “Mommy said this was left by my father and I must not lose it. She also said that someday, Father will come back to take us away.”

Men are all the same—they look good on the outside. When wooing women, they talk nonsense, making the most hollow promises, but do the most dishonorable things. Could a man who abandoned such a beautiful woman and such an adorable child be any good?

Handan’s life was truly bitter. Honestly, with her looks and such an obedient child like Sixiao, remarrying into a good family as a concubine would be better than staying in Chun Sheng Lou. I truly don’t understand a woman’s mind.

I sighed softly and reached out to rub his head: “Sixiao, as long as you believe, your father will definitely come back. If you wish for something strongly enough, it will surely echo back.”

“Okay!”

“Sleep now!”

…

🚀 The Capital Awaits

As soon as the rooster crowed, I quietly got out of bed. Sixiao was still young; I’d let him sleep a little longer. It would be trouble if his small body didn’t get enough rest and nutrition. I went into the kitchen and quickly blended in with the staff, helping to prepare breakfast for the girls in the establishment. Soon after, the madam came into the kitchen to assign the day’s tasks.

Finally, I volunteered and strongly requested to go to the market with the attendants to buy groceries. Firstly, I could familiarize myself with the market prices. Secondly, I wanted to experience the bustling morning market of Changshun Prefecture. It would be a bit of a break for myself.

‘Bao Xia Ju’ was quite trusting, allowing me to travel with the group so easily. Along the way, I admired the down-to-earth scenery of the market. Forget about running away; I wouldn’t leave the group even if I were dying—I was afraid of getting lost! Following the attendants, I selected the ingredients I would need for grilling tonight, and then happily trotted back to Chun Sheng Lou.

As soon as I entered the building, I heard the madam calling the girls together for a small meeting in a high-pitched voice. I didn’t catch the cause, but I learned the result: a very important person was reportedly going to reserve the entire place tomorrow. Tsk, tsk, tsk, that would be a lot of fuss.

As usual, I helped in the kitchen while sorting out the ingredients I would need for the evening. Sunlight fell on my shoulders. Although I was tired and exhausted, the sense of purpose in my days made me feel very satisfied.

Suddenly, I found that I didn’t dislike my days at Chun Sheng Lou; in fact, I was a little happy. I was adapting as quickly as possible to this world without friends, family, or advanced technology.

And this pleasure house wasn’t as sordid as I had imagined. After all, everyone was earning a living through their own means. Remember the saying: Pity the poor, but not the prostitute (笑窮勿笑娼 – roughly).

As darkness fell, I took Sixiao and opened the stall. As expected, the customers who missed out on barbecue yesterday all came out today. To promote civilized habits, I even taught everyone to queue and wait. These people from Da Xuan were like uncultivated monkeys; they actually listened to everything I said. Having two grill racks made my work twice as efficient.

And my limited-edition fruit juice beverages were instantly snapped up, completely overwhelming the supply. Sixiao happily collected the money, grinning ear to ear. Our goal was to sell out all the prepared ingredients and then close the stall. Today, I bought twice the amount of goods as yesterday, but we closed even earlier because business was sky-high.

The small mission I assigned to Sixiao was to procure a batch of fresh flowers. Since we closed so early, we couldn’t just rest. We had to seize every opportunity to earn money. While I returned to the back kitchen to help organize, the little guy roamed the establishment with the flowers.

Sure enough, these wealthy patrons who came for pleasure understood romance. For one coin per flower, Sixiao sold out both large bouquets he had prepared in less than an hour. He ran into the backyard to share the day’s earnings with me. Finally, after everyone had rested, I once again took the generous proceeds to ‘Bao Xia Ju’s’ room.

Piling the money on the table, the madam nodded in satisfaction. No need to count; the silver I had earned had already surpassed the fifty tael mark. She waved her hand, signaling that I could leave: “That’s enough. No need for fifteen days; you earned back the money you owed in two days. You can go now.”

Hearing the madam say this, my heart swelled with excitement, but after the excitement, I felt an inexplicable reluctance. I reached up and touched my nose, speaking somewhat awkwardly: “Although I won the bet, Sijie would like to stay one more day, just to say goodbye to everyone properly.”

“What? Now that I’m letting you go, you don’t want to leave?”

“Mama is a good person. These past few days, you haven’t given me any trouble and have helped me in many ways. Sijie is very grateful. Tomorrow, a distinguished guest is reserving the entire Chun Sheng Lou, right? There definitely won’t be enough staff. So, to show my gratitude, I am willing to stay one extra day.”

“You stinky boy really know how to play the game. Fine, I’ll let you stay one more day.”

“Thank you, Mama!”

Turning and pushing the door open, I skipped toward the backyard. When you find that a business is moving on track at a rapid pace, you begin to consider broader issues, such as why the people here have spare money to eat late-night snacks and frequent brothels.

Thus, the level of thinking suddenly rose to a certain height. This country is indeed in a state of prosperity. People are well-fed and well-clothed, with more spare money to satisfy additional needs.

Therefore, this means that opportunities are everywhere, and money is scattered all over the ground waiting to be picked up. Changshun Prefecture is just my starting point. I need to go to a bigger place—the capital, Shundu.