The sound of Lila's humming gradually lulled Mia back to sleep as they made their way home. The comforting sway of her mother's gait and the warm, secure feeling of being nestled against her chest made Mia feel safe and content.
It wasn't until much later in the day that Mia awoke to the sounds of the family gathering for dinner. Felix, Yara, and Ethan were all there, and the mood seemed lively. Mia was handed around, spending a little time with each family member, absorbing the unique scents and sensations of each. She was learning more about them with every day.
The chatter over dinner was lively, though Mia couldn't understand everything. Felix was sharing an amusing story about someone in the village, and Yara was giggling along, playfully interjecting her own comments. Ethan chimed in now and then with a dry remark, while Lila, seated at the head of the table, smiled contentedly, her eyes twinkling with amusement.
But as the conversation wore on, Lila's expression grew serious. She leaned forward and lowered her voice, signaling that what she was about to say was important. Mia perked up, instinctively recognizing this as a moment to pay close attention.
"Earlier today, I heard something troubling," Lila began, her voice measured. "Six Aunt told me that Mrs. Liu's been talking about us, spreading rumors."
Ethan raised an eyebrow, clearly curious. "Oh? What kind of rumors?"
"She claims that we're nothing but troublemakers," Lila replied, her tone icy. "She's been saying that we'll be the downfall of this village, that our family is destined for ruin."
Yara scoffed, rolling her eyes. "Let her talk. She's always been a bitter old woman."
Felix nodded in agreement. "Yeah, who cares what she says? She's just jealous."
Lila's gaze hardened. "It's more than that. She's been stirring up trouble, trying to turn the villagers against us. I wouldn't normally worry about her, but this is starting to go too far."
Ethan sighed, rubbing his temples. "We don't need this kind of trouble right now. The last thing we need is for people to start causing issues for us."
Lila seemed deep in thought, her fingers tapping lightly on the table. After a moment, she nodded, as if making a decision. "Don't worry. I'll take care of it. I'll make sure she knows not to meddle in our affairs again."
Felix and Yara exchanged glances, a spark of excitement in their eyes. They knew their mother well enough to understand that she wasn't one to take things lying down. If she said she'd handle it, then Mrs. Liu was in for a surprise.
The next day, Lila took Mia with her again, but this time, they went in a different direction. Instead of heading toward the village, they followed a winding path that led toward a small grove at the edge of town. Mia, cradled in Lila's arms, looked around curiously, wondering what her mother was planning.
When they arrived at the grove, Lila carefully set Mia down on a patch of soft grass. She then took a few steps away and began digging a small hole in the ground with surprising speed and precision. Mia watched in fascination as her mother worked, her hands moving deftly, as if she had done this a hundred times before.
Once the hole was complete, Lila stood up, dusted off her hands, and looked around, her eyes sharp and focused. She then turned to Mia and smiled, as if to reassure her.
"It's just a little trick," Lila murmured, more to herself than to Mia. "Sometimes, people need a reminder to keep their noses out of other people's business."
After covering the hole with some leaves and twigs, Lila picked Mia up and they headed back to the village, where they went about their day as if nothing had happened. Mia, still uncertain of what her mother had done, nestled against her, content to simply observe.
That evening, news spread through the village like wildfire: Mrs. Liu had fallen into a hidden pit while walking back from the market. Although she hadn't been seriously injured, she was bruised and shaken, and everyone was buzzing about the strange incident.
Mia saw the satisfaction in her mother's eyes as they listened to the gossip from their neighbors. Lila's expression remained calm, but Mia could sense the quiet pride in her demeanor. This was a woman who knew how to handle things her own way—a mother who wasn't afraid to settle scores.
As they returned home, Mia realized just how resourceful her family was. Each member had their own strengths, and together, they made a formidable team. She may have been born into a family of so-called "villains," but they were her villains, and she wouldn't have it any other way.
With the mysterious spring at her disposal, Mia felt a growing determination to support them in whatever way she could. They might not be heroes, but they were hers, and that was enough.