"You don't need to worry about me. If you have anything to arrange, just have Shadow Guards Tianyin Wei send a message to me." Chengmo spoke into the void, "Tian One, leave two people behind. In the future, if Miss Bei has anything, you follow her orders. Remember, her words are my words. Her safety is more important than mine. Come and meet her."
Outside the window, a black figure flashed onto the eaves, kneeling in front of Xiaobei. The black cloth on the face was pulled down, revealing a face that had weathered storms and walked through blood rain – cold and resolute.
"TianOne pays respects to the master. I will stay with the master along with TianThirteen and TianFourteen in the future." After speaking, he melted into the night again.
"Amo, thank you. I won't be polite. Now, indeed, we need someone to convey messages between us. When I'm free to move, I'll send them back. Let me instruct them; I'll prepare all their provisions, packed in a bamboo basket with our Same-City written on it."
"They won't need to go back in the future. I'm yours, so they naturally belong to you as well. Go have your dinner now. Tomorrow, I will go up the mountain with your Uncle. Wait for me."
"Really? What do you want to eat? I'll cook for you tomorrow."
"You're arranging a welcome feast for Uncle; the protagonist isn't me." Chengmo's heart was as sweet as honey. Before parting, they were already looking forward to their reunion tomorrow.
"By the way, don't tell them about the wild buffalo herd. I'll arrange people to guard them. When Uncle comes, please let him enjoy some exciting hunting. It'll be a great gift for him! He's a young hero; these years in the capital might not have offered many chances for a thrilling hunt."
"Yeah, I'll discreetly inform my mother tonight. I'll say you sent someone with a message, preparing for a hunt and reminding us to be cautious. I'll encourage her to invite Uncle, making her owe you a favor."
"With your clever mind, they won't outsmart you. Go on, spend quality time with your family." Chengmo affectionately pinched the beloved one's little nose, reluctant to part.
"Sure, I'm leaving. Amo, these are the items I need, especially this iron bead spinner. You have to get it made overnight. Thank you for this."
"Disobeying, why be so polite between us? Tomorrow morning, I'll send some people up to help you. Don't tire yourself too much." Chengmo gently embraced her and walked her out.
When Xiaobei arrived at the dining hall, everyone had gathered, enthusiastically discussing various arrangements for Uncle's arrival tomorrow. The dishes were not yet prepared for eating, and it seemed like they were getting ready for a hot pot.
"Xiaobei is here, quickly, come sit next to Mother." Upon seeing Xiaobei, Lady Huo greeted her warmly, "Xiaobei, these past few days, Jingjing has been talking about all the things you've done. I've inspected them all. Thank you for doing so much for this family. Also, thank you to Grandfather for educating you so well. You're so intelligent, even surpassing your parents."
Being a woman from a family of warriors, Lady Huo was hearty, frank, strong-willed, yet also humble. Xiaobei immediately liked Lady Huo's character, "I'm sorry, Mother. I was too impolite earlier and offended you. Please forgive me."
"The natural mother and daughter don't need so much formality. Come, Xiaobei, come sit next to your brother and parents. It's been so many years since our family had a reunion dinner. Your mother really likes the hot pot you prepared. She even mentioned using this to treat your Uncle tomorrow." Tong Dingshan affectionately invited, his spirits high.
It was the first time Xiaobei had seen Tong Dingshan speak to her like a father since she arrived, and his appearance was completely different from the languid expression before. No wonder he could make Miss Hou's health improve and leave the capital to return to the mountains.
"As long as Mother likes it, we can have it anytime. But the reception feast for Uncle must not be so simple. We have to present the most distinctive dishes from the manor. Besides, this hot pot's reputation has already spread from Fuhai Tower. Your Uncle might have even tasted it elsewhere. How about we discuss and finalize the list tonight while we eat?"
"It's still Xiaobei who thinks carefully. I always said that these years, there's no need to worry when things are entrusted to her," Tong Dingshan said with a proud and satisfied smile.
"You still have the nerve to say that. She's still so young, and you, as a father, hand everything over to her. You can really say that with a straight face. It's also my fault for not fulfilling my duties as a mother." Lady Huo criticized Tong Dingshan's words, which hit Xiaobei right in the heart.
She deeply agreed. Lady Huo, understanding the situation, continued speaking, but her tone dropped. Her eyes reddened, and her voice choked up, turning the lively atmosphere around the table somewhat heavy.