Jin Qianqian had just finished distributing porridge for the day.

After tidying up, she was about to return to the city when she suddenly saw Shen Qingwan driving a carriage toward her.

Jin Zhengyang, noticing the approach, quickly stepped forward, positioning himself protectively in front of his sister.

His stance made it seem as if Shen Qingwan were some sort of scoundrel.

Shen Qingwan, now dressed in men’s attire, took a step back upon seeing Jin Zhengyang blocking her way.

“Zhengyang, mind your manners,” Jin Qianqian chided, giving her brother a reproachful glance before pulling him aside.

She then gracefully saluted Shen Qingwan.

“Young Master Shen,” she greeted.

Shen Qingwan returned the courtesy with a slight bow and spoke, “I have something to discuss with Miss Jin. May I have a moment of your time?”

Jin Qianqian glanced at the sky before nodding. “In that case, shall we talk at Xiangyun Pavilion? I have yet to properly thank you for the grain. Allow me to host you today.”

Seeing Jin Qianqian’s hospitality, Shen Qingwan did not decline.

After all, who was footing the bill wasn’t important.

“In that case, I gladly accept Miss Jin’s invitation.”

They boarded the carriage and headed into the city, one in front of the other.

Upon arriving at Xiangyun Pavilion, they were led to a private room on the second floor.

Naturally, Jin Zhengyang followed closely behind, acting like an overprotective guardian, as if fearing Shen Qingwan might harbor improper intentions toward his sister.

Once the dishes were ordered, the two sat opposite each other.

Shen Qingwan got straight to the point, explaining her proposal.

Jin Qianqian was slightly surprised.

“You mean to say that under the joint banner of Tianxia Grain Stores and the Jin family, we will distribute porridge all day long? You will provide the grain, and my family will handle the cooking and distribution?”

Although this arrangement seemed fair, it was actually a greater burden on Shen Qingwan.

The Jin family would contribute labor, but the grain supply relied solely on Shen Qingwan, making her the one at a loss.

“Yes,” Shen Qingwan confirmed. “The number of refugees outside the city has increased significantly, and five carts of porridge per day are far from sufficient. So I thought, why not provide porridge throughout the day? We can set up cooking stations outside the city. As for the grain, you don’t need to worry—I will find a way to procure it.”

She could not bear to watch the refugees starve to death.

Given her unique abilities, she had the means to help, so she could not turn a blind eye.

If grain was needed, she would have her second uncle procure it. If that failed, she would simply take it—robbing from bandits, raiders, or corrupt officials.

There was no way she would let those refugees starve.

Jin Qianqian looked at Shen Qingwan, who, at that moment, seemed to radiate light.

She was truly a person of kindness.

In these troubled times, few would go out of their way to help refugees.

Jin Qianqian deeply admired her.

“Young Master Shen, I accept your proposal. However, the grain supply must be a shared responsibility. While my family cannot purchase grain at the moment, we can contribute silver instead. The task of acquiring the grain will be left to you.”

The Jin family had wealth, so they did not mind spending money. After all, providing porridge was not a short-term endeavor, and the expenses would accumulate over time.

Shen Qingwan chuckled. “Since Miss Jin insists, I won’t refuse. When the grain runs low, feel free to take more from my stores.”

With the matter settled, the food arrived, and the three of them dined together. As they ate, Shen Qingwan shared methods to prevent opportunists from exploiting the free porridge. Jin Qianqian listened attentively, nodding in agreement.

Though it was their first meal together, Shen Qingwan remained composed, elegantly picking up dishes as if she were already accustomed to such interactions.

Her refined demeanor made Jin Qianqian’s ears flush red.

Embarrassed, she quickly lowered her head.

Jin Zhengyang, too busy eating, failed to notice his sister’s reaction.

..

Early the next morning, the Jin family’s porridge distribution team set out in full force.

Fires were lit, and three large cauldrons of porridge were simultaneously prepared.

Upon seeing this, refugees eagerly lined up.

“The Jin family has brought the grain themselves today. It looks like they really intend to distribute porridge all day.”

“The young lady spoke the truth! The Jin family is truly providing continuous aid—we finally have a chance to survive.”

The refugees who had been working in Dahe Village the previous day had already lined up early in the morning.

When the porridge was ready, distribution began.

However, unlike before, the first man in line was stopped.

“You must present travel permits or household registration proof to receive porridge,” the worker announced.

“What? We never needed those before!” The man was displeased.

Who would carry such documents just to get a bowl of porridge?

Standing at the front, Jin Zhengyang raised his voice, “From today onward, anyone wishing to receive porridge must present household registration proof or a travel permit to verify their refugee status. Those without proof will not be served.”

This was Shen Qingwan’s idea.

True refugees had proper documentation, which listed their original place of residence, making it easy to distinguish them.

The man, realizing he would not receive porridge without proof, left grumbling.

Others in line, upon hearing the requirement, also left if they lacked proper documentation.

Some tried their luck, but no matter their excuses, they were denied without proof.

Frustrated, those attempting to exploit the system departed.

Many were actually local villagers who had come simply to take advantage of the free food.

They were upset at the sudden enforcement of stricter rules.

Beside the porridge station, a large banner read: Tianxia Grain Stores & The Jin Family – United in Providing Porridge

Tianxia Grain Stores was already well-regarded for selling affordable grain.

Now, with its participation in porridge distribution, its reputation soared.

Shen Qingwan even earned the title “The Great Philanthropist Shen.”

..

Having arranged the grain store affairs, Shen Qingwan set off alone to procure more supplies.

She rode her horse lightly packed.

However, shortly after leaving Suzhou City, a group of men blocked her path.

“This tree was planted by me, this road was paved by me. If you want to pass, leave behind a toll fee!”

The leader, a burly man carrying a broadsword, had a face full of scars.

Though his words were intimidating, his choice of phrasing was oddly childish.

Shen Qingwan glanced at the dozen men before her, unimpressed.

They looked like a hastily assembled gang, not even a proper bandit group.

She doubted they even had a hideout.

Even if she wanted to steal from them, there was probably nothing worth taking.

..

Shen Qingwan stood over the gang of bruised and groaning men, her boot pressing down on the leader’s back.

“Mercy, Lady! Please spare us! We were wrong! We beg for your kindness!” the leader wailed.

Dressed in a dark red combat outfit, her hair tied high, Shen Qingwan’s identity as a woman was unmistakable.

“Is there a proper bandit stronghold nearby?” she asked, applying more pressure with her foot.

“Yes! Yes! Outside Ancheng, there’s a place called Shangfeng Ridge. A real den of criminals! They rob townsfolk and wealthy merchants and even conspired with the county magistrate to plunder Ancheng. They’re the real villains! We’re just small-time thieves—we only rob refugees and never kill! Waaaah!”

The leader sobbed, thoroughly terrified, and swore he would never be a bandit again.