Dual blades closing in, silver needles attacking...
At this moment, Han Boss remained motionless. Observing from a distance, Zhan Ming felt puzzled, unexpectedly worrying about Han Boss for some unknown reason. Kong Xu's dual blades descended, and judging from Han Boss's expression, it seemed like he had resigned to his fate.
The dual blades were near, followed by silver needles. One person was delighted, the other, distressed.
The dual blades missed, the silver needles embedded into the empty wall.
Ah...
Seeing this, both Zhan Ming and Kong Xu were astonished. In that brief moment, Han Boss had managed to evade both their attacks!
They stood still, scanning the surroundings, only to find Han Boss standing not far from them. Zhan Ming and Kong Xu exchanged glances, then fixed their gaze on Han Boss together.
Zhan Ming suddenly pulled out a dagger and thrust it toward Han Boss. In response, Han Boss approached, easily evading each of Zhan Ming's rapid attacks. Kong Xu, seeing this, swung his dual blades, joining the confrontation. Three of them engaged in a series of moves, and after a dozen exchanges, Kong Xu seemed to be losing ground.
"Zhan Ming, what are you waiting for? Do we have to wait until he offers himself to the Town Lord?" Kong Xu shouted loudly, noticing Zhan Ming's hesitation.
Observing the scene, Zhan Ming, shaken from his thoughts, approached and, with a flick of his hand, silver needles glimmered toward Han Boss. Han Boss, evading the swinging blades, frowned upon seeing the approaching silver needles.
Ha...
Han Boss exclaimed. At that moment, both the blades and the needles stopped in mid-air, unable to advance any further. Zhan Ming and Kong Xu, witnessing this, were shocked. With a wave of Han Boss's hand, both the blades and the needles were forcefully repelled.
Looking at the scattered silver needles on the ground, Zhan Ming said, "Kong Xu, let's go!"
"But..."
Kong Xu was about to say something when Zhan Ming interrupted, "Given the current situation, there's no meaning in continuing to fight him!"
Kong Xu, looking at Han Boss, reluctantly sighed. Without saying a word, he picked up his fallen blade and left the room.
Zhan Ming watched Kong Xu depart and then turned to Han Boss, saying, "Han Boss, take care!"
With that, Zhan Ming turned and left. Han Boss remained silent, watching Zhan Ming depart. Even after Zhan Ming had crossed the wall, Han Boss continued staring at it.
After a while, the night breeze came, causing Han Boss to shiver. He looked down at the scattered silver needles and sighed, "I didn't expect this day to come so soon."
Having said that, he glanced at the needles on the ground for a while before turning back into the room. Inside, Little Bell was soundly asleep on the bed, seemingly undisturbed by the earlier fight. She even smiled in her dreams. Han Boss, seeing this, smiled faintly and murmured, "May your life be as happy as this night!"
In the Moonlit Tower, the music and dance on the stage had long stopped. Tian Hua, engrossed in the entertainment, seemed to forget about time. He watched the performances, sipped his wine, and chatted happily with Murong Feiyan.
At that moment, Murong Feiyan, looking at Tian Hua, smiled and filled his empty cup. They continued to drink a few more cups, and Tian Hua, putting down his cup, found it increasingly difficult to see people's faces clearly. When he turned to look at Murong Feiyan, she seemed blurry too. Eventually, he felt his eyelids getting heavier. Gradually, he couldn't discern faces anymore and fell asleep on the table.
Seeing Tian Hua sleeping on the table, Murong Feiyan shook him with a smile. Seeing him unresponsive, she chuckled, "How did you get drunk so quickly?" As she spoke, she too became fuzzy, closed her eyes, and fell asleep on the table.
In the room, Mu Xiong was staring at Zhan Ming and Kong Xu returning empty-handed. Mu Xiong didn't speak for a long time. Seeing Mu Xiong silent, the two dared not speak either, just standing quietly in place.
"What happened tonight? I asked you to bring a child back, and you two returned injured!" Mu Xiong shouted loudly.
"Town Lord, this was truly unexpected. We never thought that Han Boss would have such martial skills, surpassing both of us!" Kong Xu explained.
"I've known Han Boss for many years and never once suspected him of having martial skills. So, tonight's events were purely accidental." Zhan Ming added.
"Tell me about what happened tonight." Mu Xiong ordered.
The two immediately recounted the events of the night. Mu Xiong listened quietly, and when they finished, he looked at them and said, "You can leave for now."
Zhan Ming and Kong Xu exchanged glances and then turned to leave.
Seeing them depart, Mu Xiong shouted, "Guards!"
A person quickly entered, bowing, "Town Lord, what do you command?"
Mu Xiong waved his hand, indicating for the person to come closer. After that person approached, Mu Xiong whispered a few words. When he finished, Mu Xiong shouted loudly, "Hurry, go and handle it!"
The person understood and nodded, saying, "Yes, I'll go immediately."
Mu Xiong watched as the person left, smiling and saying, "It seems things are getting more interesting!"
The music and dance on the stage had already stopped long ago. Hu Jinhua, seeing the two drunk individuals lying on the table, called someone to carry them upstairs and put them on the bed.
At dawn, Tian Hua groggily woke up, finding himself lying in bed. He quickly opened his eyes, surveying the unfamiliar surroundings. Bewildered, he heard faint sounds coming from beneath the blanket. Even more confused, he slowly lifted the blanket, revealing a familiar yet unfamiliar face. Their eyes met, and both exclaimed in surprise. Tian Hua hurriedly jumped out of bed, putting on his clothes.
"What's going on?" Tian Hua asked as he dressed.
Compared to Tian Hua, Murong Feiyan seemed much calmer. She sat on the bed, supporting her head with her hand, quietly watching Tian Hua dress. Tian Hua quickly put on his clothes and said, "I'm leaving!" Without waiting for her response, he hastily departed.
Watching Tian Hua leave, Murong Feiyan, lost in thought, did not recover for a long time. Her face, like goose fat, blushed slightly.
Tian Hua ran quickly out of the East Gate, arriving in the wilderness. His mind was in turmoil as he tried to recall what had happened last night. He only remembered drinking with Murong Feiyan, but this morning, both of them were lying on the bed. What on earth happened? Tian Hua stood on the wilderness, struggling to recall the events of the previous night, but he couldn't make sense of it.
Ah...
Tian Hua shouted inwardly. He didn't know what to do next. How
would he face Murong Feiyan? How would he face Eran when he returned?
Tian Hua wandered aimlessly, walking to a tree and lying down, plucking a blade of grass from the side and putting it in his mouth. He rested his head on his hands, gazing up at the sky.
The sky was adorned with white clouds and pure blue, but as Tian Hua continued to gaze, he closed his eyes and fell asleep.
A ray of sunlight penetrated through the leaves, falling onto Tian Hua's eyes. Feeling a sudden brightness, he slowly opened his eyes, squinting at the sunlight. Suddenly, as if remembering something, he hastily stood up and ran towards the town.
Outside the tavern, Tian Hua saw Han Boss sitting behind the counter. After hesitating for a moment, he quickly walked in. Just as he reached the middle door, Han Boss shouted from behind, "Tian Hua, where were you last night? Why are you only coming back now?"
Upon hearing this, Tian Hua's heart skipped a beat. He quickly replied, "I was drinking at an elder's house last night, got drunk, and spent the night there!"
Before Han Boss could say anything, Tian Hua hurriedly went towards the backyard. Han Boss stared at the middle door for a while.
Inside the courtyard, everything was quiet. The old man was preparing lunch in the kitchen, and Little Bell should be inside the house, doing who knows what!
Tian Hua returned to his room, lay on the bed, and stared blankly at the ceiling.
Thud... Thud... Thud...
Consecutive knocks woke Tian Hua. Startled, he called out, "Who is it?"
"It's me, Tian Hua. Come out and eat!" Han Boss said from outside.
"Alright, Han Uncle, I'm coming." Tian Hua said, straightened his clothes, took a few deep breaths, and opened the door with a slight smile.
In the courtyard, Han Boss and two others were already seated at the table. The aroma of the food on the table wafted through the air. Seeing Tian Hua coming out, Han Boss smiled and said, "Tian Hua, come and eat!"
"Sure, Han Uncle, you go ahead. I'll wash my face first." Tian Hua smiled and said, then walked away.
After a while, Tian Hua sat down at the table. He picked up a bowl, but for some reason, he felt uneasy. The bowl in his hand trembled slightly.
Tian Hua tried to calm himself, but the trembling intensified. He glanced at Han Boss, who was eating with his head down. Looking at the old man, he found the same. Only Little Bell was smiling while looking at Tian Hua. Tian Hua smiled back and then picked up his chopsticks to eat.
During the meal, Han Boss looked at Tian Hua and asked with concern, "Tian Hua, what's wrong today? Are you not feeling well?"
"No, I'm fine!" Tian Hua hurriedly replied.
"No? Then why has your hand been shaking all this time?" Han Boss asked puzzledly.
As soon as Han Boss mentioned it, Little Bell, curious, stared at Tian Hua's hand and said, "Daddy, Tian Hua's hand is not shaking!"
"Hands... how could they shake!" Tian Hua quickly looked at his hand, and when he said the word "hand," his hand inexplicably started shaking, almost dropping the bowl.
"Hey, look, Tian Hua's hand is really shaking!" Little Bell suddenly exclaimed excitedly.
Tian Hua, hearing this, quickly put the bowl on the table and looked nervously at Han Boss.
"Tian Hua, did you drink too much last night?" Han Boss asked with concern.
Tian Hua looked at Han Boss, about to say something when the old man interrupted, saying, "Next time when you go out drinking, be more careful. Your health is important!"
"Yeah, Han Uncle, I'll be more careful in the future!" Tian Hua nodded.
"Come, finish your meal! After eating, go rest a bit!" Han Boss said.
After the meal, Tian Hua returned to his room, lying there motionless. He wanted to sleep but couldn't.
In the evening, Tian Hua got up and went to the front to help. The business was still going on as usual, with familiar customers. Tian Hua mechanically worked until the last customer left.
When the last customer left, Tian Hua felt extremely tired. This was a feeling he had never experienced before. He lazily tidied up the place, closed the door, and then went to the backyard for dinner.
Dinner seemed quieter than usual. Besides Little Bell chattering occasionally, Han Boss and Tian Hua hardly spoke.
After dinner, Han Boss took Little Bell inside to wash up and sleep. The weather had cooled down, and the old man had already left the courtyard. After finishing the meal, Tian Hua cleaned the table, washed the dishes, and then washed his face and feet before entering his room to lie down. He closed his eyes.
Tian Hua lay with his eyes closed, still unable to sleep. Lost in his thoughts, someone gently knocked on the door from outside, and then a voice said softly, "Tian Hua, are you asleep?"
Hearing this, Tian Hua, puzzled, opened the door. Under the moonlight, Han Boss was smiling at him. Tian Hua quickly let him in, lit a candle, and closed the door.
Han Boss sat on a stool beside Tian Hua's bed, and Tian Hua sat on the bed. The two looked at each other, and Tian Hua curiously asked, "Han Uncle, what's the matter? Why are you looking for me tonight?"
Han Boss stared at Tian Hua as if contemplating something. Seeing this, Tian Hua didn't know what to say and simply waited for Han Boss to speak.
After a while, Han Boss spoke, "Tian Hua, you've been here for over half a year now. In this half year, how has Han Uncle treated you?"
Tian Hua was taken aback. Why is Han Uncle asking such a question tonight? What's happening?
"Han Uncle, you've treated me like family!" Tian Hua said.
"Good. Since you say that, there's something Han Uncle wants you to do. Can you promise?" Han Boss suddenly asked seriously.
Tian Hua was even more puzzled. What's going on with Han Uncle tonight?
"Han Uncle, just tell me! Whatever it is, as long as I can do it, I will definitely promise you!" Tian Hua said.
"This is something you can definitely do: if there comes a day when I'm no longer around, I hope you can take care of Little Bell for me!" Han Boss said.
Tian Hua was startled, looking at Han Boss, he felt that the Han Boss in front of him was like a stranger tonight. What mysterious things were said tonight? And from his eyes, a hint of sadness could be seen!
"Han Uncle, what do you mean? What happened?" Tian Hua asked anxiously.
"Tian Hua, don't be agitated. I just want to say that life is full of uncertainties. Perhaps one day, something unexpected may happen to me, and Little Bell is still so young. I worry that she won't have someone to take care of her!" Han Boss suddenly smiled and said.
"How could that be! Han Uncle, you are in your prime, in good health. How can you say such things!" Tian Hua said.
"Haha, in my prime..." Han Boss laughed twice.
Tian Hua looked at Han Boss without saying a word.
"Tian H
ua, Han Uncle hopes that what Han Uncle just asked you to do, you can promise!" Han Boss said.
"Han Uncle, can..." Tian Hua had just uttered a few words when Han Boss interrupted him, saying, "Tian Hua, don't say anything, don't ask anything. Just tell me if you can promise."
Tian Hua looked at Han Boss's serious expression and nodded, "Han Uncle, I promise you. If there comes a day when you're not around, I will take good care of Little Bell, ensuring she lives happily every day."
Han Boss, relieved, looked at Tian Hua and nodded, smiling, "Tian Hua, Han Uncle didn't misjudge you!"
Tian Hua, still puzzled, was about to say something when Han Boss spoke, "Alright, Tian Hua, I'll be going now. Get some rest early!"
After saying that, he stood up and walked out. Tian Hua stared at Han Boss's departing figure, unable to snap out of his thoughts for a long time.
A cool breeze swept in, causing the candles on the table to sway. The flames flickered, nearly extinguishing. Tian Hua, regaining his senses, walked to the door. Looking at Han Boss's house, now completely dark, he sighed inwardly, closed the door, blew out the candle, and lay down on the bed.
Tian Hua's mind was already in turmoil, and the strange words Han Boss spoke tonight only added to the confusion. Sleep was out of the question. He sighed deeply and decided not to force himself to sleep, keeping his eyes open, staring at the ceiling.
Outside, the moon hung quietly in the sky.
The next day, feeling somewhat weary, Tian Hua got up from the bed and went to the courtyard. Han Boss and others hadn't woken up yet. After freshening up a bit, he went to the kitchen to prepare breakfast.
When everyone was up and seated for breakfast, Tian Hua observed Han Boss, who seemed normal as always. Tian Hua found it strange. At this moment, Han Boss seemed to notice Tian Hua staring and smiled, saying, "Tian Hua, what's wrong? Why are you looking at me instead of eating? Do I have something on my face?"
"Oh, nothing!" Tian Hua quickly replied.
Life went on, people continued with their routines, seemingly unaware of any differences. Yesterday, last night, all felt like a dream.
Murong Feiyan had sent people several times to invite Tian Hua, but he hadn't gone. He didn't know how to face her, so he avoided it, fearing the encounter.
Once, Murong Feiyan sent a letter. At night, Tian Hua opened and read it. After putting down the letter, he sat there in a daze. After a while, he deeply sighed. A sentence in the letter made him uneasy: "Tian Hua, are we not going to see each other again?"
Tian Hua hesitated in his heart. Indeed, the mistake had been made, and avoiding it wouldn't change anything. Avoidance would only make the heartache more unbearable. Tian Hua looked at the letter, unsure of how she viewed the situation. Had she forgotten or chosen not to remember? What would happen when they faced each other again?
"We will meet again, just not now," Tian Hua sighed inwardly.
Murong Feiyan sat alone in front of the dressing table. She had forgotten how many times she had sat here waiting for Tian Hua, but he never came. Even the letter she sent received no reply. She stared blankly in the mirror for a long time and sighed in her heart, "Choosing between them is truly a difficult decision!"
In the grand mansion, elegantly decorated rooms, Mu Xiong was strolling around while admiring the furnishings. Soon, someone walked out of the room. Seeing him, Mu Xiong smiled and said, "Mr. Chang, the decorations here are indeed extraordinary!"
"Lord Mayor's late-night visit, is it really just to appreciate the decorations?" Chang Qing asked.
"Haha, I'm one to visit without a reason. Tonight, I'm here to seek advice on something from Mr. Chang," Mu Xiong said, putting down a vase he held.
"Oh, what is it?" Chang Qing asked curiously.
Chang Qing gestured for Mu Xiong to sit, and the two came to a table, facing each other.
"This is information I received just a few days ago. But I've been pondering it for a long time and can't figure it out. So, I came to ask Mr. Chang for advice." Mu Xiong sat down and said.
"Let me hear it," Chang Qing said.
Mu Xiong went on to narrate the incident of Zou Ming and Kong Xu going to the tavern to capture Little Bell. After finishing, he looked at Chang Qing.
After hearing it, Chang Qing sat there for a long time without saying a word. Mu Xiong quietly watched him.
Thud... Thud... Thud...
Knocking on the door interrupted Chang Qing's thoughts. He snapped out of it and said, "Come in!"
When the door opened, a person walked in holding a tray with two cups of tea. Carefully, he said,
"Master, the tea you wanted!"
"Good, place it here!" Chang Qing said indifferently.
After placing the tea on the table, the person turned and left. At this moment, Chang Qing said, "After going out, if there are no specific instructions, no one is allowed to enter."
"Yes!" the person responded.
After the person left, the room returned to silence. Mu Xiong picked up the cup of tea, opened the lid, and a light fragrance slowly spread. He praised, "Good tea!"
Chang Qing looked at Mu Xiong, not saying anything. He sat there, frowning, deep in thought.
After a while, Chang Qing picked up the teacup on the table, took a sip, and slowly said, "The tea is indeed good. But Lord Mayor's words may not be entirely truthful."
Mu Xiong heard this, put down the teacup in his hand, and hurriedly said, "Mr. Chang, how can you say that?"
"I'm afraid you didn't come to seek advice at all tonight," Chang Qing put down his teacup and looked at Mu Xiong.
"Oh, since that's the case, tell me," Mu Xiong said.
"In fact, you have long known who that person is. Tonight, you came to make me take action against him!" Chang Qing said.
Haha...
"Mr. Chang is truly Mr. Chang. I can't hide anything from you! Yes, tonight I came to ask Mr. Chang to take action!" Mu Xiong laughed heartily.
Chang Qing was about to say something when Mu Xiong continued, "But before that, there is one thing I want to confirm."
"What is it?" Chang Qing asked.
"Although I have guessed who that person is, I am not sure. So, I want to hear who you think it is. Is it the same as my guess?" Mu Xiong said.
"Han Wen!" Chang Qing said calmly.
The two cups of tea on the table had been brought in for quite some time, yet there was still a faint fragrance lingering in the air...
Dual blades closing in, silver needles attacking...
At this moment, Han Boss remained motionless. Observing from a distance, Zhan Ming felt puzzled, unexpectedly worrying about Han Boss for some unknown reason. Kong Xu's dual blades descended, and judging from Han Boss's expression, it seemed like he had resigned to his fate.
The dual blades were near, followed by silver needles. One person was delighted, the other, distressed.
The dual blades missed, the silver needles embedded into the empty wall.
Ah...
Seeing this, both Zhan Ming and Kong Xu were astonished. In that brief moment, Han Boss had managed to evade both their attacks!
They stood still, scanning the surroundings, only to find Han Boss standing not far from them. Zhan Ming and Kong Xu exchanged glances, then fixed their gaze on Han Boss together.
Zhan Ming suddenly pulled out a dagger and thrust it toward Han Boss. In response, Han Boss approached, easily evading each of Zhan Ming's rapid attacks. Kong Xu, seeing this, swung his dual blades, joining the confrontation. Three of them engaged in a series of moves, and after a dozen exchanges, Kong Xu seemed to be losing ground.
"Zhan Ming, what are you waiting for? Do we have to wait until he offers himself to the Town Lord?" Kong Xu shouted loudly, noticing Zhan Ming's hesitation.
Observing the scene, Zhan Ming, shaken from his thoughts, approached and, with a flick of his hand, silver needles glimmered toward Han Boss. Han Boss, evading the swinging blades, frowned upon seeing the approaching silver needles.
Ha...
Han Boss exclaimed. At that moment, both the blades and the needles stopped in mid-air, unable to advance any further. Zhan Ming and Kong Xu, witnessing this, were shocked. With a wave of Han Boss's hand, both the blades and the needles were forcefully repelled.
Looking at the scattered silver needles on the ground, Zhan Ming said, "Kong Xu, let's go!"
"But..."
Kong Xu was about to say something when Zhan Ming interrupted, "Given the current situation, there's no meaning in continuing to fight him!"
Kong Xu, looking at Han Boss, reluctantly sighed. Without saying a word, he picked up his fallen blade and left the room.
Zhan Ming watched Kong Xu depart and then turned to Han Boss, saying, "Han Boss, take care!"
With that, Zhan Ming turned and left. Han Boss remained silent, watching Zhan Ming depart. Even after Zhan Ming had crossed the wall, Han Boss continued staring at it.
After a while, the night breeze came, causing Han Boss to shiver. He looked down at the scattered silver needles and sighed, "I didn't expect this day to come so soon."
Having said that, he glanced at the needles on the ground for a while before turning back into the room. Inside, Little Bell was soundly asleep on the bed, seemingly undisturbed by the earlier fight. She even smiled in her dreams. Han Boss, seeing this, smiled faintly and murmured, "May your life be as happy as this night!"
In the Moonlit Tower, the music and dance on the stage had long stopped. Tian Hua, engrossed in the entertainment, seemed to forget about time. He watched the performances, sipped his wine, and chatted happily with Murong Feiyan.
At that moment, Murong Feiyan, looking at Tian Hua, smiled and filled his empty cup. They continued to drink a few more cups, and Tian Hua, putting down his cup, found it increasingly difficult to see people's faces clearly. When he turned to look at Murong Feiyan, she seemed blurry too. Eventually, he felt his eyelids getting heavier. Gradually, he couldn't discern faces anymore and fell asleep on the table.
Seeing Tian Hua sleeping on the table, Murong Feiyan shook him with a smile. Seeing him unresponsive, she chuckled, "How did you get drunk so quickly?" As she spoke, she too became fuzzy, closed her eyes, and fell asleep on the table.
In the room, Mu Xiong was staring at Zhan Ming and Kong Xu returning empty-handed. Mu Xiong didn't speak for a long time. Seeing Mu Xiong silent, the two dared not speak either, just standing quietly in place.
"What happened tonight? I asked you to bring a child back, and you two returned injured!" Mu Xiong shouted loudly.
"Town Lord, this was truly unexpected. We never thought that Han Boss would have such martial skills, surpassing both of us!" Kong Xu explained.
"I've known Han Boss for many years and never once suspected him of having martial skills. So, tonight's events were purely accidental." Zhan Ming added.
"Tell me about what happened tonight." Mu Xiong ordered.
The two immediately recounted the events of the night. Mu Xiong listened quietly, and when they finished, he looked at them and said, "You can leave for now."
Zhan Ming and Kong Xu exchanged glances and then turned to leave.
Seeing them depart, Mu Xiong shouted, "Guards!"
A person quickly entered, bowing, "Town Lord, what do you command?"
Mu Xiong waved his hand, indicating for the person to come closer. After that person approached, Mu Xiong whispered a few words. When he finished, Mu Xiong shouted loudly, "Hurry, go and handle it!"
The person understood and nodded, saying, "Yes, I'll go immediately."
Mu Xiong watched as the person left, smiling and saying, "It seems things are getting more interesting!"
The music and dance on the stage had already stopped long ago. Hu Jinhua, seeing the two drunk individuals lying on the table, called someone to carry them upstairs and put them on the bed.
At dawn, Tian Hua groggily woke up, finding himself lying in bed. He quickly opened his eyes, surveying the unfamiliar surroundings. Bewildered, he heard faint sounds coming from beneath the blanket. Even more confused, he slowly lifted the blanket, revealing a familiar yet unfamiliar face. Their eyes met, and both exclaimed in surprise. Tian Hua hurriedly jumped out of bed, putting on his clothes.
"What's going on?" Tian Hua asked as he dressed.
Compared to Tian Hua, Murong Feiyan seemed much calmer. She sat on the bed, supporting her head with her hand, quietly watching Tian Hua dress. Tian Hua quickly put on his clothes and said, "I'm leaving!" Without waiting for her response, he hastily departed.
Watching Tian Hua leave, Murong Feiyan, lost in thought, did not recover for a long time. Her face, like goose fat, blushed slightly.
Tian Hua ran quickly out of the East Gate, arriving in the wilderness. His mind was in turmoil as he tried to recall what had happened last night. He only remembered drinking with Murong Feiyan, but this morning, both of them were lying on the bed. What on earth happened? Tian Hua stood on the wilderness, struggling to recall the events of the previous night, but he couldn't make sense of it.
Ah...
Tian Hua shouted inwardly. He didn't know what to do next. How
would he face Murong Feiyan? How would he face Eran when he returned?
Tian Hua wandered aimlessly, walking to a tree and lying down, plucking a blade of grass from the side and putting it in his mouth. He rested his head on his hands, gazing up at the sky.
The sky was adorned with white clouds and pure blue, but as Tian Hua continued to gaze, he closed his eyes and fell asleep.
A ray of sunlight penetrated through the leaves, falling onto Tian Hua's eyes. Feeling a sudden brightness, he slowly opened his eyes, squinting at the sunlight. Suddenly, as if remembering something, he hastily stood up and ran towards the town.
Outside the tavern, Tian Hua saw Han Boss sitting behind the counter. After hesitating for a moment, he quickly walked in. Just as he reached the middle door, Han Boss shouted from behind, "Tian Hua, where were you last night? Why are you only coming back now?"
Upon hearing this, Tian Hua's heart skipped a beat. He quickly replied, "I was drinking at an elder's house last night, got drunk, and spent the night there!"
Before Han Boss could say anything, Tian Hua hurriedly went towards the backyard. Han Boss stared at the middle door for a while.
Inside the courtyard, everything was quiet. The old man was preparing lunch in the kitchen, and Little Bell should be inside the house, doing who knows what!
Tian Hua returned to his room, lay on the bed, and stared blankly at the ceiling.
Thud... Thud... Thud...
Consecutive knocks woke Tian Hua. Startled, he called out, "Who is it?"
"It's me, Tian Hua. Come out and eat!" Han Boss said from outside.
"Alright, Han Uncle, I'm coming." Tian Hua said, straightened his clothes, took a few deep breaths, and opened the door with a slight smile.
In the courtyard, Han Boss and two others were already seated at the table. The aroma of the food on the table wafted through the air. Seeing Tian Hua coming out, Han Boss smiled and said, "Tian Hua, come and eat!"
"Sure, Han Uncle, you go ahead. I'll wash my face first." Tian Hua smiled and said, then walked away.
After a while, Tian Hua sat down at the table. He picked up a bowl, but for some reason, he felt uneasy. The bowl in his hand trembled slightly.
Tian Hua tried to calm himself, but the trembling intensified. He glanced at Han Boss, who was eating with his head down. Looking at the old man, he found the same. Only Little Bell was smiling while looking at Tian Hua. Tian Hua smiled back and then picked up his chopsticks to eat.
During the meal, Han Boss looked at Tian Hua and asked with concern, "Tian Hua, what's wrong today? Are you not feeling well?"
"No, I'm fine!" Tian Hua hurriedly replied.
"No? Then why has your hand been shaking all this time?" Han Boss asked puzzledly.
As soon as Han Boss mentioned it, Little Bell, curious, stared at Tian Hua's hand and said, "Daddy, Tian Hua's hand is not shaking!"
"Hands... how could they shake!" Tian Hua quickly looked at his hand, and when he said the word "hand," his hand inexplicably started shaking, almost dropping the bowl.
"Hey, look, Tian Hua's hand is really shaking!" Little Bell suddenly exclaimed excitedly.
Tian Hua, hearing this, quickly put the bowl on the table and looked nervously at Han Boss.
"Tian Hua, did you drink too much last night?" Han Boss asked with concern.
Tian Hua looked at Han Boss, about to say something when the old man interrupted, saying, "Next time when you go out drinking, be more careful. Your health is important!"
"Yeah, Han Uncle, I'll be more careful in the future!" Tian Hua nodded.
"Come, finish your meal! After eating, go rest a bit!" Han Boss said.
After the meal, Tian Hua returned to his room, lying there motionless. He wanted to sleep but couldn't.
In the evening, Tian Hua got up and went to the front to help. The business was still going on as usual, with familiar customers. Tian Hua mechanically worked until the last customer left.
When the last customer left, Tian Hua felt extremely tired. This was a feeling he had never experienced before. He lazily tidied up the place, closed the door, and then went to the backyard for dinner.
Dinner seemed quieter than usual. Besides Little Bell chattering occasionally, Han Boss and Tian Hua hardly spoke.
After dinner, Han Boss took Little Bell inside to wash up and sleep. The weather had cooled down, and the old man had already left the courtyard. After finishing the meal, Tian Hua cleaned the table, washed the dishes, and then washed his face and feet before entering his room to lie down. He closed his eyes.
Tian Hua lay with his eyes closed, still unable to sleep. Lost in his thoughts, someone gently knocked on the door from outside, and then a voice said softly, "Tian Hua, are you asleep?"
Hearing this, Tian Hua, puzzled, opened the door. Under the moonlight, Han Boss was smiling at him. Tian Hua quickly let him in, lit a candle, and closed the door.
Han Boss sat on a stool beside Tian Hua's bed, and Tian Hua sat on the bed. The two looked at each other, and Tian Hua curiously asked, "Han Uncle, what's the matter? Why are you looking for me tonight?"
Han Boss stared at Tian Hua as if contemplating something. Seeing this, Tian Hua didn't know what to say and simply waited for Han Boss to speak.
After a while, Han Boss spoke, "Tian Hua, you've been here for over half a year now. In this half year, how has Han Uncle treated you?"
Tian Hua was taken aback. Why is Han Uncle asking such a question tonight? What's happening?
"Han Uncle, you've treated me like family!" Tian Hua said.
"Good. Since you say that, there's something Han Uncle wants you to do. Can you promise?" Han Boss suddenly asked seriously.
Tian Hua was even more puzzled. What's going on with Han Uncle tonight?
"Han Uncle, just tell me! Whatever it is, as long as I can do it, I will definitely promise you!" Tian Hua said.
"This is something you can definitely do: if there comes a day when I'm no longer around, I hope you can take care of Little Bell for me!" Han Boss said.
Tian Hua was startled, looking at Han Boss, he felt that the Han Boss in front of him was like a stranger tonight. What mysterious things were said tonight? And from his eyes, a hint of sadness could be seen!
"Han Uncle, what do you mean? What happened?" Tian Hua asked anxiously.
"Tian Hua, don't be agitated. I just want to say that life is full of uncertainties. Perhaps one day, something unexpected may happen to me, and Little Bell is still so young. I worry that she won't have someone to take care of her!" Han Boss suddenly smiled and said.
"How could that be! Han Uncle, you are in your prime, in good health. How can you say such things!" Tian Hua said.
"Haha, in my prime..." Han Boss laughed twice.
Tian Hua looked at Han Boss without saying a word.
"Tian H
ua, Han Uncle hopes that what Han Uncle just asked you to do, you can promise!" Han Boss said.
"Han Uncle, can..." Tian Hua had just uttered a few words when Han Boss interrupted him, saying, "Tian Hua, don't say anything, don't ask anything. Just tell me if you can promise."
Tian Hua looked at Han Boss's serious expression and nodded, "Han Uncle, I promise you. If there comes a day when you're not around, I will take good care of Little Bell, ensuring she lives happily every day."
Han Boss, relieved, looked at Tian Hua and nodded, smiling, "Tian Hua, Han Uncle didn't misjudge you!"
Tian Hua, still puzzled, was about to say something when Han Boss spoke, "Alright, Tian Hua, I'll be going now. Get some rest early!"
After saying that, he stood up and walked out. Tian Hua stared at Han Boss's departing figure, unable to snap out of his thoughts for a long time.
A cool breeze swept in, causing the candles on the table to sway. The flames flickered, nearly extinguishing. Tian Hua, regaining his senses, walked to the door. Looking at Han Boss's house, now completely dark, he sighed inwardly, closed the door, blew out the candle, and lay down on the bed.
Tian Hua's mind was already in turmoil, and the strange words Han Boss spoke tonight only added to the confusion. Sleep was out of the question. He sighed deeply and decided not to force himself to sleep, keeping his eyes open, staring at the ceiling.
Outside, the moon hung quietly in the sky.
The next day, feeling somewhat weary, Tian Hua got up from the bed and went to the courtyard. Han Boss and others hadn't woken up yet. After freshening up a bit, he went to the kitchen to prepare breakfast.
When everyone was up and seated for breakfast, Tian Hua observed Han Boss, who seemed normal as always. Tian Hua found it strange. At this moment, Han Boss seemed to notice Tian Hua staring and smiled, saying, "Tian Hua, what's wrong? Why are you looking at me instead of eating? Do I have something on my face?"
"Oh, nothing!" Tian Hua quickly replied.
Life went on, people continued with their routines, seemingly unaware of any differences. Yesterday, last night, all felt like a dream.
Murong Feiyan had sent people several times to invite Tian Hua, but he hadn't gone. He didn't know how to face her, so he avoided it, fearing the encounter.
Once, Murong Feiyan sent a letter. At night, Tian Hua opened and read it. After putting down the letter, he sat there in a daze. After a while, he deeply sighed. A sentence in the letter made him uneasy: "Tian Hua, are we not going to see each other again?"
Tian Hua hesitated in his heart. Indeed, the mistake had been made, and avoiding it wouldn't change anything. Avoidance would only make the heartache more unbearable. Tian Hua looked at the letter, unsure of how she viewed the situation. Had she forgotten or chosen not to remember? What would happen when they faced each other again?
"We will meet again, just not now," Tian Hua sighed inwardly.
Murong Feiyan sat alone in front of the dressing table. She had forgotten how many times she had sat here waiting for Tian Hua, but he never came. Even the letter she sent received no reply. She stared blankly in the mirror for a long time and sighed in her heart, "Choosing between them is truly a difficult decision!"
In the grand mansion, elegantly decorated rooms, Mu Xiong was strolling around while admiring the furnishings. Soon, someone walked out of the room. Seeing him, Mu Xiong smiled and said, "Mr. Chang, the decorations here are indeed extraordinary!"
"Lord Mayor's late-night visit, is it really just to appreciate the decorations?" Chang Qing asked.
"Haha, I'm one to visit without a reason. Tonight, I'm here to seek advice on something from Mr. Chang," Mu Xiong said, putting down a vase he held.
"Oh, what is it?" Chang Qing asked curiously.
Chang Qing gestured for Mu Xiong to sit, and the two came to a table, facing each other.
"This is information I received just a few days ago. But I've been pondering it for a long time and can't figure it out. So, I came to ask Mr. Chang for advice." Mu Xiong sat down and said.
"Let me hear it," Chang Qing said.
Mu Xiong went on to narrate the incident of Zou Ming and Kong Xu going to the tavern to capture Little Bell. After finishing, he looked at Chang Qing.
After hearing it, Chang Qing sat there for a long time without saying a word. Mu Xiong quietly watched him.
Thud... Thud... Thud...
Knocking on the door interrupted Chang Qing's thoughts. He snapped out of it and said, "Come in!"
When the door opened, a person walked in holding a tray with two cups of tea. Carefully, he said,
"Master, the tea you wanted!"
"Good, place it here!" Chang Qing said indifferently.
After placing the tea on the table, the person turned and left. At this moment, Chang Qing said, "After going out, if there are no specific instructions, no one is allowed to enter."
"Yes!" the person responded.
After the person left, the room returned to silence. Mu Xiong picked up the cup of tea, opened the lid, and a light fragrance slowly spread. He praised, "Good tea!"
Chang Qing looked at Mu Xiong, not saying anything. He sat there, frowning, deep in thought.
After a while, Chang Qing picked up the teacup on the table, took a sip, and slowly said, "The tea is indeed good. But Lord Mayor's words may not be entirely truthful."
Mu Xiong heard this, put down the teacup in his hand, and hurriedly said, "Mr. Chang, how can you say that?"
"I'm afraid you didn't come to seek advice at all tonight," Chang Qing put down his teacup and looked at Mu Xiong.
"Oh, since that's the case, tell me," Mu Xiong said.
"In fact, you have long known who that person is. Tonight, you came to make me take action against him!" Chang Qing said.
Haha...
"Mr. Chang is truly Mr. Chang. I can't hide anything from you! Yes, tonight I came to ask Mr. Chang to take action!" Mu Xiong laughed heartily.
Chang Qing was about to say something when Mu Xiong continued, "But before that, there is one thing I want to confirm."
"What is it?" Chang Qing asked.
"Although I have guessed who that person is, I am not sure. So, I want to hear who you think it is. Is it the same as my guess?" Mu Xiong said.
"Han Wen!" Chang Qing said calmly.
The two cups of tea on the table had been brought in for quite some time, yet there was still a faint fragrance lingering in the air...
