28 A Thin Layer of Ice (1/2)

The sun shone in the sky like a glistening lump of gold as Madam Lin gazed at its reflection in the large lake. The water was on the verge of freezing because of the low temperatures, trapping the many fishes beneath the surface.

Though a layer of ice had formed on the surface of the water, it was still thin, thus it could not be trodden upon, even carefully.

Looking at the small and large group of fish nearing the surface, the only thing separating them a thin layer of ice, as though grasping for the air. Madam Lin's face formed an almost mocking smile.

”Do they not know the only thing keeping them under the water is a layer of paper thin ice?” Madam Lin asked, as though in a deep wonder. This was a question that she seemed to be asking herself.

Ru An, standing off to the side seemed to dare not answer. Her head lowered slightly.

”Do you think they're adorable?” Madam Lin asked Ru An.

Ru An nodded her head quietly, looking at her dress.

”A pity they can't survive above water. I don't even understand why they're kept as pets. All they do is eat what you give them if you give them too much, their bellies swell and they die.” Madam Lin said, as though ridiculing all those who have ever kept fishes in their small ponds among the scenery of fake mountains.

”We have fish in the manor.” Ru An quietly stated.

Madam Lin seemed to not have heard Ru An as she bent down, placing an pale hand over the thin ice. As though by instinct, the fish came in an instant, clamoring at the shadow that was above them, all fighting for the food they believed would soon descend into the water.

”If they're starved long enough, will they eat flesh and pick the bones clean?” Madam Lin suddenly spoke, again, it seemed as though she was speaking to herself once again.

Ru An: ”...”

Madam Lin truly had her mood swings, she could be as kind as a goddess, or as cruel as the overseer of the underworld.

There was no seer who could predict which mood she would end up next, which has been a headache of the servants in the manor. Such a master was truly very difficult to serve.

”Ah… Ru An, say do you think we can fish here?” Madam Lin stared over the large lake and asked.