The sky had darkened.
Zhang Xiaoying thought of the siblings, and how she had promised the little girl that she would return. If she broke her promise, the girl might feel abandoned once again.
At this time, the rain had also lessened considerably.
Upon learning that Zhang Xiaoying was leaving, the villagers tried to convince her to stay.
"Big sister-in-law, the roads are slippery in the rain, and it's now dark. Why not wait until tomorrow to leave?"
"Yes, traveling at night is dangerous. It is better to go back when it's light."
"I will give my hut to the doctor. Doctor, please rest assured and stay."
...
Zhang Xiaoying declined their kind offers.
"I have many things to do and cannot afford to delay for too long. Don't worry, the darkness won't affect my travel, and it won't be dangerous," she reminded them. "As for you all, be careful before the rain stops. And, don't drink raw water, especially from the river."
Pei Zhaolin and Wang Jia also left with Zhang Xiaoying.
