Chapter 40 (1/2)

Red bricks and green tiles. Green trees and red flora. Narrow courtyards were glistening with serenity and elegance.

When Xu Yi stepped foot in the courtyard, Little Qiu was helping Uncle Mu walk out of the main house.

With a night of good rest and after taking two prescribed doses of tonics, Uncle Mu’s complexion improved tremendously. He was able to hobble slowly.

When she caught a glimpse of Xu Yi, the young girl shouted: “Hey, Uncle Beard, where are you this early morning? We’ve been searching for you.”

Xu Yi hastened his steps and rubbed Little Qiu’s head. “You’ve been sleeping for quite some time. Haven’t you slept enough? Look at the dark black circles on your white face. Here you go, I’ve brought you some snacks. Eat it quickly before you catch a nap. Do not worry about Grandpa; Uncle Beard is here.”

He dangled an exquisite paper box while he rattled it. That was the snack he had brought from Linglong Hall.

The little rascal opened the paper box and was immediately attracted by the various delicate snacks. She finally broke into a smile and tapped Xu Yi on his lap. “Uncle Beard is so good.” She returned to her room with her present.

“You over-indulge her!” Uncle Mu chided hoarsely, then sighed, “I’ve burdened you.”

Xu Yi waved his hand. “Uncle Mu, there’s no need for such words. Let’s go. Let me bring you out to the courtyard to sit under the sun.”

It was gloomy at dawn. Now the skies had cleared up. A red hot sun hung against an azure sky.

It was August. However, autumn had yet to arrive. The climate was barely chilly. It would be one of life’s simple pleasures to snuggle against a heavily cushioned armchair and read a book under some shady corner.

Uncle Mu had been blessed with a good and healthy body. Despite his severe injuries, Xu Yi had generously bought the best quality tonics to help with his recuperation. After taking the tonics for one day, although it was still a far cry from full recovery, Uncle Mu was holding up excellently.

Xu Yi sat on a stool and struck up small talk with Uncle Mu. He engaged the old man in interesting stories along the Nielong River.

Xu Yi was knowledgeable and Uncle Mu was well travelled. The duo were chatting away happily.

A few moments passed, and Little Qiu brought out some snacks on a serving tray. She flapped her arms as her joyful feet carried her out of the house. “Let’s hear some interesting stories! Grandpa and Uncle Beard, how about you have a contest? The better story-teller shall be rewarded with a snack.”

Little Qiu had been untamed since a young age. Her sorrows had usually been transient. After spending the past few days with Xu Yi and being surrounded by delicious food, her thoughts were preoccupied with intriguing food ideas. She had indeed no time to dwell in sorrow.

Xu Yi grabbed her with his big hands and ruffled her hair. Little Qiu’s neat, bowl-cut hair was a mess! She was utterly infuriated and slammed her head into Xu Yi’s arms.

After several playful moments, Xu Yi did not wish to disappoint her. He sat patiently with her and told her a story about the Princess and a Pea. The story mesmerised Little Qiu, who listened attentively without uttering a word.

At this instant, there was a commotion outside the door. They heard neat and rhythmic marching sounds. Xu Yi frowned, then offered a smile. “Uncle Mo, the opera singers are here. Would you rather listen to them inside the house or out here in the courtyard?”

“My ears are bad. Let’s hear them out here.”

Though Uncle Mu was uncouth, he was a proud man.

Before he finished his words, a team of soldiers in black armour flooded through the entrance. Upon entering the door, they split into two teams, and within minutes, they had besieged the duo. Their swords were unsheathed, their arrows were mounted, their armour was shining under the light, and death was in the air.

Xu Yi ignored the enemies. He tapped gently on Little Qiu’s head and cautioned, “Be good and sit still. Close your eyes when you are afraid.”