It's a calamity that has lasted for a thousand years. Su Jinshu was protected under Gu Yingshao, only suffering some superficial injuries.

However, Gu Yingshao's situation is not optimistic. The heavy beam from the roof smashed onto his leg, most likely leaving him disabled.

For a person like him, the supreme throne is now out of reach, what a pity.

The imperial decree from the palace arrived swiftly, not only canceling my engagement with Gu Yingshao but also demoting the title of the Duke's residence. As for Su Jinshu, she was thrown into the dungeon, awaiting execution.

The moment Gu Yingshao regained consciousness from his coma, he released her from the dungeon.

For a long time after that, I didn't see her again.

Everyone started new lives, except my mother who wept daily, "What will happen to my Ah Yan?"

For a girl whose royal engagement was broken, who would dare to marry into her family?

"Mother, why worry? It can't get any worse."

This winter is colder than previous years. Last night, heavy snowfall caused some poor households' roofs to collapse, burying all their food under the rubble, making it inaccessible for a while.

I took Xiuer to the streets to distribute porridge, watching the people savoring the warm bowls with satisfaction, I felt I should do something more meaningful.

After a night of contemplation, I changed into men's clothing, took the house servant to the south of the city, bought a few hills, and with three meals a day plus ten coins, hired some homeless people. In just half a month, a three-story building emerged, and I named it—Jishan Hall!

Anyone homeless under ten years old can stay for free until they turn fifteen.

Those over fifteen can stay for free for three months, and Jishan Hall can help them find work.

Jishan Hall quickly filled up with people.

Elderly abandoned by their sons because they can't work anymore.

Infants abandoned at birth because they were girls and couldn't carry on the family line.

Orphans left parentless due to the snow disaster.

And lazy men who just want to freeload!

These lazy men not only came to beg for food and drink but also stopped me, asking me to find them wives.

Remaining indifferent, I had them sent directly to the military camp, believing my uncles would help discipline them.