Chapter 13 - Farming and Making Condiments

Hu Yufeng couldn't contain her excitement as she strolled around the neighborhood, carefully observing the flow of people passing by the vacant shop she had set her sights on. Her heart raced with anticipation, and her mind buzzed with ideas of creating a warm and inviting space where people could gather to savor her culinary creations.

As she watched the residents go about their daily routines, Hu Yufeng couldn't help but feel a sense of relief. It seemed that no one else in the neighborhood had recognized the untapped potential for profit by opening shops of their own. The unique rule imposed by the owner committee worked in her favor, granting her a golden opportunity to establish herself as the sole provider of delectable delights within this exclusive neighborhood full of wealthy people.

Each passing face held a story, and she imagined the joy that her food could bring to the lives of those who lived here. The prospect of becoming a beloved figure in the community, known for her culinary prowess, fueled her determination. She envisioned laughter and lively conversations filling the air as residents flocked to her shop, eager to taste the flavors of her carefully crafted dishes.

Meanwhile, unbeknownst to Hu Yufeng, the butler, Mu, diligently carried out his duties as the eyes and ears of the household. He took note of her every move, reporting to Admiral Feng Xiu the details of her daily activities. The admiral maintained a watchful eye over his wife, ensuring he knew everything happening in his home.

As Hu Yufeng explored the neighborhood, her excitement mingled with a tinge of nervousness. She couldn't help but wonder what her husband's reaction would be when he discovered her plans to open a shop. Would he support her entrepreneurial spirit, or would he have reservations about her venturing into the world of business?

She knew that her husband, with his flexible and analytical mind, would have already deduced her intentions from the reports provided by Butler Mu. Despite this, Hu Yufeng hoped that her passion for cooking and her desire to share her culinary creations would resonate with him, ultimately earning his approval and support.

Little did she know that her husband, Admiral Feng Xiu, admired her tenacity and entrepreneurial spirit. He recognized the spark of ambition that burned brightly within her and eagerly awaited the moment when she would confide in him about her plans. He believed in her abilities and that her culinary talents were meant to be shared with the world.

In Admiral Feng Xiu's and Hu Yufeng's unique dynamic, their relationship was marked by a deep sense of respect and support rather than the traditional notions of intimacy. They treated each other as friends, allies, and partners in their respective pursuits.

Hu Yufeng, with her entrepreneurial spirit burning bright, knew that careful planning and budgeting were essential to kick-start her farming career. She meticulously calculated her expenses, considering the cost of seeds, fertilizers, tools, and equipment. With a clear vision in mind, she set a budget that would enable her to create a thriving farm while maintaining financial stability.

Eager to immerse herself in the world of agriculture, Hu Yufeng dedicated the following days to farming. She embraced the early mornings, relishing the crispness of the air as she ventured into her backyard, which she had transformed into a fertile land waiting to be cultivated. With a sense of purpose, she began her farming routines.

She would carefully inspect the plants, paying attention to their growth, health, and any signs of pests or diseases. Armed with her gardening tools, she would tend to the soil, loosening it gently to allow for proper root development and optimal nutrient absorption. Hu Yufeng understood that healthy soil was the foundation for robust and bountiful crops.

Throughout the day, she would diligently water her plants, ensuring they received the necessary hydration for growth. She would monitor the soil's moisture levels, adjusting her watering schedule accordingly. In the scorching afternoon sun, she would shield delicate plants from excessive heat, using shade covers or strategically positioning them to avoid direct sunlight.

Hu Yufeng took great care in applying organic fertilizers to nourish her plants. She studied the nutritional needs of each crop and devised a feeding schedule that would provide them with the essential elements for their development. With steady hands, she would apply compost, manure, or specially formulated organic fertilizers to create a balanced and nutrient-rich environment.

As her crops grew, she diligently pruned and trained them to maximize their potential. She would gently remove dead leaves, trim unruly branches, and provide support for climbing plants. With each careful touch, she encouraged proper growth and allowed the plants to flourish.

In the evenings, Hu Yufeng would marvel at her progress, taking a moment to appreciate the beauty of nature and the wonders of her newfound farming venture. She marveled at the way her plants reached toward the sky, bearing vibrant fruits, vegetables, and herbs. The colors, shapes, and aromas that filled her garden brought her immense joy and a sense of accomplishment.

She carefully harvested her crops, ensuring that each fruit and vegetable was picked at the peak of ripeness. As Hu Yufeng expanded her farming venture, she recognized the need for efficient storage and production facilities. Determined to optimize her operations, she set out to create storage and production warehouses within the expansive grounds of their residence.

With meticulous planning and careful execution, Hu Yufeng transformed a section of their property into a well-organized storage facility. Shelves lined the walls, neatly stacked with jars, containers, and baskets, each filled with preserved fruits, vegetables, spices, and herbs. The aroma of the preserved produce filled the air, infusing the space with a delightful scent.

Adjacent to the storage facility, she established a production warehouse equipped with state-of-the-art machinery and tools. Hu Yufeng would process and package her farm-fresh products, ensuring their quality and longevity. From juicing fruits and vegetables to drying herbs and spices, every step was meticulously carried out to maintain the integrity of the ingredients and create exceptional products.

Feng Tian had seen the changes in the residence, which surprised him more, so he asked Butler Jin for some news, "Did she seriously build a plant base at home?"

"Yes, young master. The madam even decided to open a restaurant in the neighborhood."

"Did she have so much free time or is my dad going bankrupt with his secret investments?"