"I can do it."
Ye Zilin's eyes showed determination, with a calmness and firmness uncommon for a nine-year-old boy.
"Zilin."
Ye Yunzheng looked worried and wanted to persuade him again.
"Yunzheng brother, you don't need to persuade me anymore."
Ye Zilin waved his hand to interrupt him: "Becoming a disciple of True Master Chixia is my father's wish, and I cannot disappoint him."
"Sigh."
Ye Yunzheng's eyes dimmed, filled with guilt and regret. He had never hated himself more for bringing misfortune upon his Third Uncle's family.
*
Three days later, Ye Zilin knelt in front of his parents' tombstone, respectfully kowtowed three times, bade farewell to his relatives with his brother and sister, and left Lanshan Village.
His sister was very young, so he wrapped her up in a sheet, forming a makeshift sling that he tied to his chest.
Ye Ziyan was obedient and sensible, hugging her brother's neck without crying or making a fuss.
