Something seemed to be happening in the courtyard; a woman was crying for help, and a child was calling for their mother. Tong Yao was on edge; could there be intruders in the yard?
While hesitating whether to peek through the door cracks at the situation, the door was suddenly pulled open. A man similar in stature to Wu Dalang—short and skinny—emerged from the courtyard, cursing as he went. Had Tong Yao not reacted swiftly to dodge out of his way, they would have collided.
The man didn't seem to expect someone would be at the door. He paused briefly and then continued on his way, cursing all the while. Thereafter, a beaten-up woman with a swollen nose and messy hair emerged from the courtyard, clutching a child. She cried out after the man's retreating figure, "Give me back my money, that money was for Niuniu's school fees."
"Sister, is that man a robber?" Tong Yao asked cautiously, "Do you need help to call the police?"
