After quickly leaving Tianxiang Tower, Tianhua walked a considerable distance before slowing down. Alone in the deep night, he strolled silently.
Tianhua didn't want to go back at this moment because he knew he wouldn't be able to sleep. In that case, he might as well take a walk here!
The night in the town was very quiet. Utilizing the faint moonlight, Tianhua arrived at a small bridge. Standing on the bridge, a gentle breeze brushed against him as he silently listened to the murmuring of the water beneath.
In the distance, there were soft footsteps, as if someone was approaching the bridge.
Leaning on the railing, Tianhua listened as the footsteps drew nearer.
As the person approached, Tianhua could see in the moonlight that it was an old man. Yet, this old man was not like an ordinary one; it was rare for an elderly person to have such steady steps!
The old man approached Tianhua, caught sight of him, and suddenly exclaimed, "Who's this young lad? In the middle of the night, not sleeping, standing here silently—this could scare someone to death!"
Tianhua chuckled at his remark. "Old sir, you're quite strange too. It's the middle of the night, and you're strolling around town without scaring anyone. Why would I, walking around, be the one to scare people?"
The old man halted and looked at Tianhua. "But you're standing here without making a sound, like a ghost."
"Old man, you haven't made a sound either. I don't think you look like a ghost!" Tianhua replied.
The old man laughed upon hearing this. Tianhua, hearing the laughter, joined in.
"Young lad, let me ask you, it's so late, why aren't you going home to sleep? What are you doing standing here alone?" the old man inquired.
"Though the night is deep, the human heart is not calm," Tianhua replied lightly.
"Look at you, so young, yet your thoughts seem quite heavy!" the old man teased.
"Who said young people can't have concerns?" Tianhua retorted.
"That's true," the old man admitted.
"Since that's the case, having concerns is normal for me," Tianhua said.
"Yes, normal," the old man agreed.
"Old man, so late, what are you doing wandering around the town alone?" Tianhua asked.
"I just finished some business outside and am now preparing to go home," the old man replied.
"Oh, in that case, old man, you should go ahead. I won't delay you from getting home," Tianhua said.
The old man glanced at him and said, "Alright."
The old man had just taken a few steps when he suddenly turned around. "Young lad, can you drink?"
Tianhua, surprised by the question, hesitated for a moment and then said, "Yes!"
"That's good. Today, after chatting with you, I feel like we get along well. Since you have concerns and don't want to go back to sleep, how about coming with me for a couple of drinks?" the old man suggested.
Tianhua, upon hearing this, smiled and said, "Sure!"
With that, the old man led Tianhua forward.
Along the way, the old man suddenly asked, "Aren't you afraid, walking with me alone?"
"Afraid? What's there to be afraid of! You, an old man, are not afraid of me, a young stranger. Should I, a young man, be afraid of you, an old stranger?" Tianhua replied, laughing.
The old man, hearing this, burst into laughter and then said, "Good! Good!"
"Good, what's good?" Tianhua asked.
"Young people should be fearless. You are exactly that kind of person. So, good!" the old man said.
Tianhua, upon hearing this, thought for a moment, laughed heartily, and then muttered to himself, "Fearless! Yes, good!"
The two walked together and soon arrived at the entrance of a large estate. The old man approached and knocked on the gate, and someone promptly opened it.
As the gate opened, the person inside greeted the old man respectfully, "Master, you're back!"
Tianhua stood beside the old man, and the person at the gate glanced at him, while Tianhua also glanced at him.
At this point, the old man led Tianhua inside. Though it was already late, the estate was brightly lit. Tianhua saw that the estate was well-maintained: there were gardens, artificial hills, flowing water in small ponds, pavilions, and beautiful scenery!
Various flowers were planted in the garden, and they were blooming splendidly in different colors—red, yellow, purple, green... Tianhua looked at them, feeling a sense of admiration: truly beautiful!
After passing through the garden, they reached a small pavilion. The old man asked Tianhua to sit down and then said, "Someone!"
In a short while, a few people came over. Seeing the old man, they respectfully said, "Master, what are your orders?"
"Go, prepare wine and dishes. Tonight, I want to have a few drinks with this young lad!" the old man said.
The individuals acknowledged with a response and left.
The wine and dishes were quickly prepared. Tianhua picked up the wine jug, filled the old man's cup, filled his own, and then raised his cup, saying, "Old sir, I toast to you!"
The old man raised his cup and said, "Good!"
After putting down the cup, he asked, "Young lad, what's your name?"
Tianhua looked at him and then said, "Old sir, tonight I'm here for a drink. Let's not ask about anything other than wine, shall we?"
The old man looked at him, then smiled and said, "Alright, no questions."
The two continued to drink, and soon they had consumed two pots of wine. Tianhua, looking at the sky, felt that it was time to leave. He said, "Old sir, I should be going now!"
The old man, hearing this, didn't insist, only saying, "Alright!"
Tianhua stood up and said, "Thank you for your hospitality!"
The old man didn't say anything. He stood up and said, "Someone!"
Several individuals quickly arrived, and the old man looked at them, saying, "Escort this young man out for me."
The individuals respectfully addressed Tianhua, saying, "Please!"
Tianhua glanced at the old man and then left. The old man watched his departing figure and muttered to himself, "Indeed."
Exiting, Tianhua briskly headed back towards the tavern.
Upon returning to the tavern, Tianhua quietly entered the room through the window, lay down on the bed, not dwelling much on Tianxiang Tower tonight. His thoughts were more focused on the old man – an unexpected drinking companion.
As the night deepened, the surroundings grew quieter.
Early morning, Tianhua, now accustomed to rising early, prepared breakfast, awaiting Mr. Han and the others to wake up.
After the meal, Xiaoling said, "Brother Tianhua, can we go out to play?"
"Sure!" Tianhua agreed.
Excitedly, Xiaoling took Tianhua's hand and headed outside. Tianhua looked at her and then said, "Xiaoling, you forgot to bring the kite!"
"I don't want to fly a kite today," Xiaoling said.
"If we're not flying kites, where do you want to go?" Tianhua asked curiously.
"I want to go to the town," Xiaoling said.
Tianhua was about to say something when Xiaoling pulled his hand and said, "Don't say anything, let's go!"
Helpless, Tianhua could only take Xiaoling to the town.
In town, Xiaoling was very excited, darting around in the crowd. Tianhua, now cautious, followed behind to prevent them from getting separated.
Passing by Tianxiang Tower, Xiaoling heard the music and said, "Brother Tianhua, the music is so nice."
Tianhua nodded, muttering to himself, "Yes, it's really beautiful."
"Brother Tianhua, can we go inside and take a look?" Xiaoling asked.
"Well, no, children cannot go there," Tianhua said.
"Why can't children go in?" Xiaoling asked in confusion.
"You'll understand when you grow up," Tianhua said.
Xiaoling seemed to understand vaguely and said, "Oh."
Two women standing outside the door noticed Tianhua. One of them hurriedly went inside, and the other approached, smiling, "Young sir, it's spring, and the sun is warm. Why not come in, enjoy some music and dance, and have a little wine?"
Tianhua looked at her, about to say something, when he suddenly glimpsed Hu Jinhua coming out from the gate with a few people. Hastily pulling Xiaoling, he said, "Xiaoling, let's go."
Xiaoling nodded, and Tianhua, holding her, quickly left.
Behind them, Hu Jinhua chased after them, shouting, "Young sir, young sir..."
Tianhua, ignoring her, quickened his pace.
Curiously looking back, Xiaoling said, "Brother Tianhua, that person seems to be calling you."
"You misunderstood, Xiaoling," Tianhua said.
Xiaoling looked back in doubt, then at Tianhua. Her face was now full of confusion. She said again, "Brother Tianhua, that person was indeed calling you."
Tianhua remained silent, just continuing to walk forward. Soon, they disappeared into the crowd.
Hu Jinhua, chasing after them, shouted, but when she saw them entering the crowd and couldn't see their figures, she stopped, sighed, and looked at the bustling crowd, saying, "What a strange person!"
"Brother Tianhua, why didn't you answer her? She was calling you," Xiaoling curiously asked.
"You wouldn't understand this. When you grow up, you'll understand," Tianhua said.
Having said that, Tianhua suddenly recalled the time he asked his father about the ringing sound in the village. His father's reply was, "You'll understand when you grow up."
Now, Tianhua found himself giving a similar answer to a curious child. As he thought about it, he couldn't help but smile and shake his head.
"Brother Tianhua, what are you thinking?" Xiaoling asked, seeing Tianhua smiling from a distance.
"Oh, nothing. Shall we go back?" Tianhua said.
"Okay!" Xiaoling said, "Adults are really strange!"
Tianhua, pondering, looked at Xiaoling and thought: A child's mind is always pure and innocent. Growing up, the more we know, the more complicated our hearts become. Although we know more than children, we are not as happy as they are!
"Brother Tianhua, put me down, I want to walk by myself!" Xiaoling said.
Tianhua put her down, held her hand, and the two walked side by side towards the tavern.
Back at the tavern, Mr. Han, upon seeing them, said, "Tianhua, why are you back so early?"
"Not fun at all, not fun at all," Xiaoling complained on the side.
Mr. Han looked at her, then at Tianhua. Tianhua, looking at Xiaoling, and Xiaoling looking at both of them, suddenly smiled and said to Tianhua, "Brother Tianhua, take me to fly kites tomorrow!"
Tianhua looked at her, nodded, and said, "Okay!"
"Brother Tianhua is really good! Brother Tianhua is the best brother!" Xiaoling said, laughing and bouncing towards the backyard.
Mr. Han watched Xiaoling leave, patted Tianhua on the shoulder, and said, "Tianhua, thank you for your efforts during this time!"
"Mr. Han, why do you say that?" Tianhua asked in confusion.
"Since Xiaoling's mother passed away, I've been busy taking care of this tavern every day. I don't have much time to take her out to play. During your time here, not only did you accompany her in the morning, but you also came back in the afternoon to help me. You've really worked hard," Mr. Han said.
"Mr. Han, please don't say that. I don't even know how to express my gratitude for you taking me in. Moreover, I almost caused trouble for you and Xiaoling..." Tianhua said.
Mr. Han extended his hand, interrupted Tianhua, and then smiled, saying, "We won't discuss those things."
Tianhua looked at Mr. Han, nodded, and said, "Okay. Mr. Han, I'll go busy myself."
After saying that, Tianhua walked away. Mr. Han called him back, saying, "Tianhua, thank you!"
Tianhua turned around, smiled, and said to Mr. Han, "Mr. Han, in fact, when I take Xiaoling out to play, she also brings me joy. In the end, I have to thank you."
Having said that, Tianhua walked towards the backyard.
Mr. Han stood there, lost in thought.
"Mr. Han, settle the bill!" A voice from the side interrupted Mr. Han's thoughts.
Mr. Han came to his senses, walked over with a smile, settled the bill, and said, "Take care!"
As the night fell, Mr. Han and Tianhua became busy.
The pedestrians outside gradually disappeared, and Mr. Han lit the lamps. The interior became brightly lit.
Several people were still dining in the tavern. Mr. Han was at the counter calculating the day's accounts, while Tianhua was busy in the kitchen.
The outside was silent, with only the diners inside conversing.
The wind blew in, causing the candle flames to flicker.
At this moment, a person entered the tavern. The person's steps were light, almost soundless. When he sat down, Mr. Han was still engrossed in his calculations, unaware.
The person sat quietly. Laughter and conversation continued inside.
Mr. Han, seemingly done with the calculations, looked around the room. This was when he noticed the person, still sitting quietly with his back to the counter.
Hurrying over, Mr. Han arrived beside the person, and with a puzzled expression, said, "Mr. Zou!"
Just as Mr. Han was about to say something, another customer nearby shouted for the bill. Mr. Han smiled, saying, "Mr. Zou, please wait a moment."
Mr. Han collected the money. Perhaps, it was about time. The other customers inside, still chatting and laughing, settled their bills and left one by one.
Now, there was only one person left inside, sitting quietly.
Mr. Han approached him, a bit puzzled. "Mr. Zou, it's been a long time. Where have you been?"
The person looked up at Mr. Han and said, "Mr. Han, bring me some snacks and a few more bottles of wine."
"Sure, Mr. Zou, please wait!" Mr. Han looked into his eyes, and it was evident that this reunion was much better than the last. At least, there was a trace of vitality in his eyes, unlike the previous encounter, where his eyes were filled with loss and pain.
Mr. Zou had returned.
Mr. Han went to the backyard to prepare the food. Tianhua followed, carrying the dishes and wine. Tianhua placed them on the table, and when Mr. Zou looked at him with a sidelong glance, he suddenly stood up in surprise and exclaimed, "It's you!"
Hearing this, Tianhua quickly looked up and exclaimed, "It's you!"
Mr. Han, on the side, looked at the two with confusion and then asked, "What's going on? Do you two know each other?"
"We not only know each other, but we go way back!" Mr. Zou said casually.
"Yes, Mr. Zou and I go way back!" Tianhua smiled bitterly.
"I never expected that the first person I'd meet after coming out would be you, and I certainly didn't expect it to be here!" Mr. Zou said.
"Perhaps it's fate!" Tianhua said.
Mr. Han, standing beside them, listened in confusion to words he couldn't comprehend. He didn't understand why Mr. Zou and Tianhua knew each other, and from their expressions, it seemed like they had known each other for a long time. He couldn't figure it out.
"Now that you two know each other, don't just stand there. Sit down, have a drink, and chat!" Mr. Han suggested with a smile.
After hearing Mr. Han's words, Mr. Zou burst into laughter. Mr. Han looked at him with confusion, while Tianhua just quietly stared at him, showing no expression.
"Can we sit down and have a drink together?" Mr. Zou suddenly asked.
Tianhua looked at him, smiled slightly, and said, "I think perhaps we can."
"Please!" Mr. Zou said.
Tianhua didn't insist, directly taking a seat across from Mr. Zou. Mr. Zou also sat down. Mr. Han opened the wine and placed it on the table, saying, "You two talk!"
With that, Mr. Han went to the backyard. In his heart, he vaguely felt that the connection between them wasn't that simple.
The two sat there quietly, no one spoke, and no one moved. They just looked at each other silently.
Outside, a gentle breeze blew, and inside, the candle flames occasionally swayed with the wind.
"Why aren't you drinking?" Mr. Zou asked.
"Why aren't you drinking?" Tianhua countered.
"I'm waiting for someone," Mr. Zou said.
"I'm also waiting for someone!" Tianhua said.
"Oh. Who are you waiting for?" Mr. Zou asked.
"Who are you waiting for?" Tianhua asked.
"Cheng Kong!" Mr. Zou said.
"You!" Tianhua said.
Mr. Zou looked at Tianhua, laughed, and said, "You seem to be in a better mood than the last time we met!"
Tianhua looked at him, thought for a moment, and said, "Really?"
Zou Ming did not answer him but instead asked, "Have you seen Cheng Kong?"
"Yes," Tianhua replied.
"Have you fought against him?" Zou Ming inquired.
"Yes," Tianhua confirmed.
"Did he injure you?" Zou Ming asked.
Tianhua shook his head.
Upon hearing this, a hint of disappointment flashed in Zou Ming's eyes.
"I never thought he couldn't harm you at all!" Zou Ming sighed.
"You've fought against me and should know. In that case, what do you have to lament about this outcome?" Tianhua remarked.
"I am different from him. He is a true master, while I am just someone hiding in the shadows," Zou Ming said casually.
Tianhua looked at him but remained silent.
Outside, silence prevailed. Although it wasn't yet late at night, there was not a soul in sight.
Footsteps. Tianhua heard footsteps approaching the tavern.
Tianhua picked up the wine bottle on the table, poured a glass for Zou Ming, filled an empty glass next to him, and then poured himself a drink.
"Aren't you waiting for me?" Zou Ming said.
Tianhua looked at him, smiling slightly. "Aren't you waiting for Cheng Kong?"
Zou Ming nodded.
"I'm waiting for you, and you're waiting for Cheng Kong. As soon as Cheng Kong arrives, we can drink. Since he's about to arrive, I prepared the wine in advance. When he comes, we can drink directly. Isn't that better?" Tianhua explained.
Zou Ming looked at him, not saying anything, just sitting there quietly, as if listening to something.
Soft footsteps. The sound reached Zou Ming's ears.
The footsteps were very light, nearly inaudible unless one was very close or had a keen sense of hearing.
At this moment, Zou Ming came to his senses, looking at Tianhua in astonishment. Since he poured the wine until now, Cheng Kong should have walked a considerable distance. At that time, we were both silent, and I didn't notice Cheng Kong's footsteps, but he heard them clearly. I cannot match this perceptual ability. No wonder, during the night assault on Luyun Mountain, he could detect me so quickly.
Tianhua sat alone, quietly looking at the wine glasses on the table.
The footsteps drew nearer, and the wind outside seemed to intensify, causing the candle flames to sway continuously.
Han, the tavern owner, stared at Tianhua and Zou Ming, who remained silent and didn't drink.
Inside the room, people no longer needed to strain their ears to hear the footsteps, as they had become distinctly audible.
Cheng Kong was about to arrive!
A person slowly entered the room. He glanced around, saw Zou Ming sitting facing the door, and smiled slightly. However, when he noticed Tianhua with his back turned, his brows furrowed slightly. He thought, "Who is this?" Hesitating for a moment, he quickly walked toward the table where Zou Ming was sitting.
He approached Zou Ming, saw Tianhua sitting there, and exclaimed in surprise, "It's you!"
Tianhua gave him a slight smile, then picked up the wine glass from the table and said to Zou Ming, "The person you were waiting for has arrived!"
Zou Ming gestured for Cheng Kong to sit down, then raised his wine glass. "Since the person we were waiting for is here, let's have a drink!"
Cheng Kong looked a bit bewildered, gazing at the two of them. He asked, "Zou Ming, what's going on? I haven't seen much of you lately. You said you wanted to meet me, called me over for something, why is he here?"
"Some things may be destined. Don't think too much for now. Let's have a drink first and chat as we drink!" Zou Ming said.
"Yes, some things cannot be explained in a few words. We need to talk slowly," Tianhua added.
"But there's one thing I might as well mention: It seems like we are on opposing sides!" Cheng Kong said.
"Mr. Zou has made a promise to me. We shouldn't engage in conflict, and since you expressed reluctance to fight me again last time, the opposition between us is merely symbolic, devoid of substantial meaning!" Tianhua explained.
After hearing Tianhua's words, Cheng Kong and Zou Ming sat there, pensive and silent.
"All right! In that case, let's drink heartily tonight!" Cheng Kong raised the wine glass on the table.
The clinking of glasses echoed through the air...
After quickly leaving Tianxiang Tower, Tianhua walked a considerable distance before slowing down. Alone in the deep night, he strolled silently.
Tianhua didn't want to go back at this moment because he knew he wouldn't be able to sleep. In that case, he might as well take a walk here!
The night in the town was very quiet. Utilizing the faint moonlight, Tianhua arrived at a small bridge. Standing on the bridge, a gentle breeze brushed against him as he silently listened to the murmuring of the water beneath.
In the distance, there were soft footsteps, as if someone was approaching the bridge.
Leaning on the railing, Tianhua listened as the footsteps drew nearer.
As the person approached, Tianhua could see in the moonlight that it was an old man. Yet, this old man was not like an ordinary one; it was rare for an elderly person to have such steady steps!
The old man approached Tianhua, caught sight of him, and suddenly exclaimed, "Who's this young lad? In the middle of the night, not sleeping, standing here silently—this could scare someone to death!"
Tianhua chuckled at his remark. "Old sir, you're quite strange too. It's the middle of the night, and you're strolling around town without scaring anyone. Why would I, walking around, be the one to scare people?"
The old man halted and looked at Tianhua. "But you're standing here without making a sound, like a ghost."
"Old man, you haven't made a sound either. I don't think you look like a ghost!" Tianhua replied.
The old man laughed upon hearing this. Tianhua, hearing the laughter, joined in.
"Young lad, let me ask you, it's so late, why aren't you going home to sleep? What are you doing standing here alone?" the old man inquired.
"Though the night is deep, the human heart is not calm," Tianhua replied lightly.
"Look at you, so young, yet your thoughts seem quite heavy!" the old man teased.
"Who said young people can't have concerns?" Tianhua retorted.
"That's true," the old man admitted.
"Since that's the case, having concerns is normal for me," Tianhua said.
"Yes, normal," the old man agreed.
"Old man, so late, what are you doing wandering around the town alone?" Tianhua asked.
"I just finished some business outside and am now preparing to go home," the old man replied.
"Oh, in that case, old man, you should go ahead. I won't delay you from getting home," Tianhua said.
The old man glanced at him and said, "Alright."
The old man had just taken a few steps when he suddenly turned around. "Young lad, can you drink?"
Tianhua, surprised by the question, hesitated for a moment and then said, "Yes!"
"That's good. Today, after chatting with you, I feel like we get along well. Since you have concerns and don't want to go back to sleep, how about coming with me for a couple of drinks?" the old man suggested.
Tianhua, upon hearing this, smiled and said, "Sure!"
With that, the old man led Tianhua forward.
Along the way, the old man suddenly asked, "Aren't you afraid, walking with me alone?"
"Afraid? What's there to be afraid of! You, an old man, are not afraid of me, a young stranger. Should I, a young man, be afraid of you, an old stranger?" Tianhua replied, laughing.
The old man, hearing this, burst into laughter and then said, "Good! Good!"
"Good, what's good?" Tianhua asked.
"Young people should be fearless. You are exactly that kind of person. So, good!" the old man said.
Tianhua, upon hearing this, thought for a moment, laughed heartily, and then muttered to himself, "Fearless! Yes, good!"
The two walked together and soon arrived at the entrance of a large estate. The old man approached and knocked on the gate, and someone promptly opened it.
As the gate opened, the person inside greeted the old man respectfully, "Master, you're back!"
Tianhua stood beside the old man, and the person at the gate glanced at him, while Tianhua also glanced at him.
At this point, the old man led Tianhua inside. Though it was already late, the estate was brightly lit. Tianhua saw that the estate was well-maintained: there were gardens, artificial hills, flowing water in small ponds, pavilions, and beautiful scenery!
Various flowers were planted in the garden, and they were blooming splendidly in different colors—red, yellow, purple, green... Tianhua looked at them, feeling a sense of admiration: truly beautiful!
After passing through the garden, they reached a small pavilion. The old man asked Tianhua to sit down and then said, "Someone!"
In a short while, a few people came over. Seeing the old man, they respectfully said, "Master, what are your orders?"
"Go, prepare wine and dishes. Tonight, I want to have a few drinks with this young lad!" the old man said.
The individuals acknowledged with a response and left.
The wine and dishes were quickly prepared. Tianhua picked up the wine jug, filled the old man's cup, filled his own, and then raised his cup, saying, "Old sir, I toast to you!"
The old man raised his cup and said, "Good!"
After putting down the cup, he asked, "Young lad, what's your name?"
Tianhua looked at him and then said, "Old sir, tonight I'm here for a drink. Let's not ask about anything other than wine, shall we?"
The old man looked at him, then smiled and said, "Alright, no questions."
The two continued to drink, and soon they had consumed two pots of wine. Tianhua, looking at the sky, felt that it was time to leave. He said, "Old sir, I should be going now!"
The old man, hearing this, didn't insist, only saying, "Alright!"
Tianhua stood up and said, "Thank you for your hospitality!"
The old man didn't say anything. He stood up and said, "Someone!"
Several individuals quickly arrived, and the old man looked at them, saying, "Escort this young man out for me."
The individuals respectfully addressed Tianhua, saying, "Please!"
Tianhua glanced at the old man and then left. The old man watched his departing figure and muttered to himself, "Indeed."
Exiting, Tianhua briskly headed back towards the tavern.
Upon returning to the tavern, Tianhua quietly entered the room through the window, lay down on the bed, not dwelling much on Tianxiang Tower tonight. His thoughts were more focused on the old man – an unexpected drinking companion.
As the night deepened, the surroundings grew quieter.
Early morning, Tianhua, now accustomed to rising early, prepared breakfast, awaiting Mr. Han and the others to wake up.
After the meal, Xiaoling said, "Brother Tianhua, can we go out to play?"
"Sure!" Tianhua agreed.
Excitedly, Xiaoling took Tianhua's hand and headed outside. Tianhua looked at her and then said, "Xiaoling, you forgot to bring the kite!"
"I don't want to fly a kite today," Xiaoling said.
"If we're not flying kites, where do you want to go?" Tianhua asked curiously.
"I want to go to the town," Xiaoling said.
Tianhua was about to say something when Xiaoling pulled his hand and said, "Don't say anything, let's go!"
Helpless, Tianhua could only take Xiaoling to the town.
In town, Xiaoling was very excited, darting around in the crowd. Tianhua, now cautious, followed behind to prevent them from getting separated.
Passing by Tianxiang Tower, Xiaoling heard the music and said, "Brother Tianhua, the music is so nice."
Tianhua nodded, muttering to himself, "Yes, it's really beautiful."
"Brother Tianhua, can we go inside and take a look?" Xiaoling asked.
"Well, no, children cannot go there," Tianhua said.
"Why can't children go in?" Xiaoling asked in confusion.
"You'll understand when you grow up," Tianhua said.
Xiaoling seemed to understand vaguely and said, "Oh."
Two women standing outside the door noticed Tianhua. One of them hurriedly went inside, and the other approached, smiling, "Young sir, it's spring, and the sun is warm. Why not come in, enjoy some music and dance, and have a little wine?"
Tianhua looked at her, about to say something, when he suddenly glimpsed Hu Jinhua coming out from the gate with a few people. Hastily pulling Xiaoling, he said, "Xiaoling, let's go."
Xiaoling nodded, and Tianhua, holding her, quickly left.
Behind them, Hu Jinhua chased after them, shouting, "Young sir, young sir..."
Tianhua, ignoring her, quickened his pace.
Curiously looking back, Xiaoling said, "Brother Tianhua, that person seems to be calling you."
"You misunderstood, Xiaoling," Tianhua said.
Xiaoling looked back in doubt, then at Tianhua. Her face was now full of confusion. She said again, "Brother Tianhua, that person was indeed calling you."
Tianhua remained silent, just continuing to walk forward. Soon, they disappeared into the crowd.
Hu Jinhua, chasing after them, shouted, but when she saw them entering the crowd and couldn't see their figures, she stopped, sighed, and looked at the bustling crowd, saying, "What a strange person!"
"Brother Tianhua, why didn't you answer her? She was calling you," Xiaoling curiously asked.
"You wouldn't understand this. When you grow up, you'll understand," Tianhua said.
Having said that, Tianhua suddenly recalled the time he asked his father about the ringing sound in the village. His father's reply was, "You'll understand when you grow up."
Now, Tianhua found himself giving a similar answer to a curious child. As he thought about it, he couldn't help but smile and shake his head.
"Brother Tianhua, what are you thinking?" Xiaoling asked, seeing Tianhua smiling from a distance.
"Oh, nothing. Shall we go back?" Tianhua said.
"Okay!" Xiaoling said, "Adults are really strange!"
Tianhua, pondering, looked at Xiaoling and thought: A child's mind is always pure and innocent. Growing up, the more we know, the more complicated our hearts become. Although we know more than children, we are not as happy as they are!
"Brother Tianhua, put me down, I want to walk by myself!" Xiaoling said.
Tianhua put her down, held her hand, and the two walked side by side towards the tavern.
Back at the tavern, Mr. Han, upon seeing them, said, "Tianhua, why are you back so early?"
"Not fun at all, not fun at all," Xiaoling complained on the side.
Mr. Han looked at her, then at Tianhua. Tianhua, looking at Xiaoling, and Xiaoling looking at both of them, suddenly smiled and said to Tianhua, "Brother Tianhua, take me to fly kites tomorrow!"
Tianhua looked at her, nodded, and said, "Okay!"
"Brother Tianhua is really good! Brother Tianhua is the best brother!" Xiaoling said, laughing and bouncing towards the backyard.
Mr. Han watched Xiaoling leave, patted Tianhua on the shoulder, and said, "Tianhua, thank you for your efforts during this time!"
"Mr. Han, why do you say that?" Tianhua asked in confusion.
"Since Xiaoling's mother passed away, I've been busy taking care of this tavern every day. I don't have much time to take her out to play. During your time here, not only did you accompany her in the morning, but you also came back in the afternoon to help me. You've really worked hard," Mr. Han said.
"Mr. Han, please don't say that. I don't even know how to express my gratitude for you taking me in. Moreover, I almost caused trouble for you and Xiaoling..." Tianhua said.
Mr. Han extended his hand, interrupted Tianhua, and then smiled, saying, "We won't discuss those things."
Tianhua looked at Mr. Han, nodded, and said, "Okay. Mr. Han, I'll go busy myself."
After saying that, Tianhua walked away. Mr. Han called him back, saying, "Tianhua, thank you!"
Tianhua turned around, smiled, and said to Mr. Han, "Mr. Han, in fact, when I take Xiaoling out to play, she also brings me joy. In the end, I have to thank you."
Having said that, Tianhua walked towards the backyard.
Mr. Han stood there, lost in thought.
"Mr. Han, settle the bill!" A voice from the side interrupted Mr. Han's thoughts.
Mr. Han came to his senses, walked over with a smile, settled the bill, and said, "Take care!"
As the night fell, Mr. Han and Tianhua became busy.
The pedestrians outside gradually disappeared, and Mr. Han lit the lamps. The interior became brightly lit.
Several people were still dining in the tavern. Mr. Han was at the counter calculating the day's accounts, while Tianhua was busy in the kitchen.
The outside was silent, with only the diners inside conversing.
The wind blew in, causing the candle flames to flicker.
At this moment, a person entered the tavern. The person's steps were light, almost soundless. When he sat down, Mr. Han was still engrossed in his calculations, unaware.
The person sat quietly. Laughter and conversation continued inside.
Mr. Han, seemingly done with the calculations, looked around the room. This was when he noticed the person, still sitting quietly with his back to the counter.
Hurrying over, Mr. Han arrived beside the person, and with a puzzled expression, said, "Mr. Zou!"
Just as Mr. Han was about to say something, another customer nearby shouted for the bill. Mr. Han smiled, saying, "Mr. Zou, please wait a moment."
Mr. Han collected the money. Perhaps, it was about time. The other customers inside, still chatting and laughing, settled their bills and left one by one.
Now, there was only one person left inside, sitting quietly.
Mr. Han approached him, a bit puzzled. "Mr. Zou, it's been a long time. Where have you been?"
The person looked up at Mr. Han and said, "Mr. Han, bring me some snacks and a few more bottles of wine."
"Sure, Mr. Zou, please wait!" Mr. Han looked into his eyes, and it was evident that this reunion was much better than the last. At least, there was a trace of vitality in his eyes, unlike the previous encounter, where his eyes were filled with loss and pain.
Mr. Zou had returned.
Mr. Han went to the backyard to prepare the food. Tianhua followed, carrying the dishes and wine. Tianhua placed them on the table, and when Mr. Zou looked at him with a sidelong glance, he suddenly stood up in surprise and exclaimed, "It's you!"
Hearing this, Tianhua quickly looked up and exclaimed, "It's you!"
Mr. Han, on the side, looked at the two with confusion and then asked, "What's going on? Do you two know each other?"
"We not only know each other, but we go way back!" Mr. Zou said casually.
"Yes, Mr. Zou and I go way back!" Tianhua smiled bitterly.
"I never expected that the first person I'd meet after coming out would be you, and I certainly didn't expect it to be here!" Mr. Zou said.
"Perhaps it's fate!" Tianhua said.
Mr. Han, standing beside them, listened in confusion to words he couldn't comprehend. He didn't understand why Mr. Zou and Tianhua knew each other, and from their expressions, it seemed like they had known each other for a long time. He couldn't figure it out.
"Now that you two know each other, don't just stand there. Sit down, have a drink, and chat!" Mr. Han suggested with a smile.
After hearing Mr. Han's words, Mr. Zou burst into laughter. Mr. Han looked at him with confusion, while Tianhua just quietly stared at him, showing no expression.
"Can we sit down and have a drink together?" Mr. Zou suddenly asked.
Tianhua looked at him, smiled slightly, and said, "I think perhaps we can."
"Please!" Mr. Zou said.
Tianhua didn't insist, directly taking a seat across from Mr. Zou. Mr. Zou also sat down. Mr. Han opened the wine and placed it on the table, saying, "You two talk!"
With that, Mr. Han went to the backyard. In his heart, he vaguely felt that the connection between them wasn't that simple.
The two sat there quietly, no one spoke, and no one moved. They just looked at each other silently.
Outside, a gentle breeze blew, and inside, the candle flames occasionally swayed with the wind.
"Why aren't you drinking?" Mr. Zou asked.
"Why aren't you drinking?" Tianhua countered.
"I'm waiting for someone," Mr. Zou said.
"I'm also waiting for someone!" Tianhua said.
"Oh. Who are you waiting for?" Mr. Zou asked.
"Who are you waiting for?" Tianhua asked.
"Cheng Kong!" Mr. Zou said.
"You!" Tianhua said.
Mr. Zou looked at Tianhua, laughed, and said, "You seem to be in a better mood than the last time we met!"
Tianhua looked at him, thought for a moment, and said, "Really?"
Zou Ming did not answer him but instead asked, "Have you seen Cheng Kong?"
"Yes," Tianhua replied.
"Have you fought against him?" Zou Ming inquired.
"Yes," Tianhua confirmed.
"Did he injure you?" Zou Ming asked.
Tianhua shook his head.
Upon hearing this, a hint of disappointment flashed in Zou Ming's eyes.
"I never thought he couldn't harm you at all!" Zou Ming sighed.
"You've fought against me and should know. In that case, what do you have to lament about this outcome?" Tianhua remarked.
"I am different from him. He is a true master, while I am just someone hiding in the shadows," Zou Ming said casually.
Tianhua looked at him but remained silent.
Outside, silence prevailed. Although it wasn't yet late at night, there was not a soul in sight.
Footsteps. Tianhua heard footsteps approaching the tavern.
Tianhua picked up the wine bottle on the table, poured a glass for Zou Ming, filled an empty glass next to him, and then poured himself a drink.
"Aren't you waiting for me?" Zou Ming said.
Tianhua looked at him, smiling slightly. "Aren't you waiting for Cheng Kong?"
Zou Ming nodded.
"I'm waiting for you, and you're waiting for Cheng Kong. As soon as Cheng Kong arrives, we can drink. Since he's about to arrive, I prepared the wine in advance. When he comes, we can drink directly. Isn't that better?" Tianhua explained.
Zou Ming looked at him, not saying anything, just sitting there quietly, as if listening to something.
Soft footsteps. The sound reached Zou Ming's ears.
The footsteps were very light, nearly inaudible unless one was very close or had a keen sense of hearing.
At this moment, Zou Ming came to his senses, looking at Tianhua in astonishment. Since he poured the wine until now, Cheng Kong should have walked a considerable distance. At that time, we were both silent, and I didn't notice Cheng Kong's footsteps, but he heard them clearly. I cannot match this perceptual ability. No wonder, during the night assault on Luyun Mountain, he could detect me so quickly.
Tianhua sat alone, quietly looking at the wine glasses on the table.
The footsteps drew nearer, and the wind outside seemed to intensify, causing the candle flames to sway continuously.
Han, the tavern owner, stared at Tianhua and Zou Ming, who remained silent and didn't drink.
Inside the room, people no longer needed to strain their ears to hear the footsteps, as they had become distinctly audible.
Cheng Kong was about to arrive!
A person slowly entered the room. He glanced around, saw Zou Ming sitting facing the door, and smiled slightly. However, when he noticed Tianhua with his back turned, his brows furrowed slightly. He thought, "Who is this?" Hesitating for a moment, he quickly walked toward the table where Zou Ming was sitting.
He approached Zou Ming, saw Tianhua sitting there, and exclaimed in surprise, "It's you!"
Tianhua gave him a slight smile, then picked up the wine glass from the table and said to Zou Ming, "The person you were waiting for has arrived!"
Zou Ming gestured for Cheng Kong to sit down, then raised his wine glass. "Since the person we were waiting for is here, let's have a drink!"
Cheng Kong looked a bit bewildered, gazing at the two of them. He asked, "Zou Ming, what's going on? I haven't seen much of you lately. You said you wanted to meet me, called me over for something, why is he here?"
"Some things may be destined. Don't think too much for now. Let's have a drink first and chat as we drink!" Zou Ming said.
"Yes, some things cannot be explained in a few words. We need to talk slowly," Tianhua added.
"But there's one thing I might as well mention: It seems like we are on opposing sides!" Cheng Kong said.
"Mr. Zou has made a promise to me. We shouldn't engage in conflict, and since you expressed reluctance to fight me again last time, the opposition between us is merely symbolic, devoid of substantial meaning!" Tianhua explained.
After hearing Tianhua's words, Cheng Kong and Zou Ming sat there, pensive and silent.
"All right! In that case, let's drink heartily tonight!" Cheng Kong raised the wine glass on the table.
The clinking of glasses echoed through the air...
