Zihang and Leeming became friends in Zihang City after an unexpected meeting. As night fell, they decided to stay in an inn. However, when Zihang reached for his wallet to book a room, he realized it had been stolen.
"I'll book a room for you," Leeming offered kindly.
Zihang hesitated, his pride and cautious nature resisting the idea of accepting help from someone he'd just met. He didn't like sharing his belongings, especially with strangers. But as Leeming spoke, an idea came to his mind. Reluctantly, he agreed to share the room, deciding to pay for it himself.
When they entered the room, Zihang was surprised. It was far bigger and grander than he had expected. Despite its comfort, unease lingered within him—he feared that staying with someone might force him to remove his mask. Yet, he remained resolute and prepared to sleep without taking it off.
Leeming sat on a chair near the window, quietly observing the room and Zihang. He was curious about Zihang's mask but didn't have the courage to ask. Finally, Zihang broke the silence.
"Come and lie down on the bed," he said.
Leeming shook his head. "I'm not used to sharing beds. You take the bed; I'll sleep on the floor."
Zihang frowned. "No need for that. You take the bed. I don't mind sleeping on the floor."
Leeming smiled and shook his head again. "It's alright. I'm perfectly fine on the floor." Without waiting for a response, he spread a blanket and lay down.
Zihang remained on the bed, his mask still on. The night passed uneventfully until Zihang began tossing and turning.
Leeming noticed and asked, "Are you alright? Can't sleep?"
Zihang sighed. "No, I can't."
Leeming hesitated before speaking. "If you don't mind me asking… why do you wear that mask?"
The question hung in the air. Zihang turned away, clearly uncomfortable. "I'm feeling sleepy now," he said abruptly, feigning drowsiness.
Realizing he had struck a nerve, Leeming apologized immediately. "I'm sorry. I didn't mean to upset you."
Zihang glanced at him and softened. "It's alright. I just don't like talking about it. The mask… it's to hide myself. I believe I have many enemies in this world. If they see me, it could bring trouble." A faint smile appeared on his lips. "I suppose I've been too mischievous in life. I've wronged people."
Leeming chuckled lightly, though he could sense the weight behind Zihang's words.
"Let's sleep. We need to wake up early," Zihang said, ending the conversation.
Eventually, both drifted off to sleep.
The next morning, Zihang woke up to find Leeming already gone. A note lay on the table:
I'm leaving. I have some important matters to attend to. It was a pleasure meeting you. Take care.
Zihang sighed, folding the note carefully. He then returned to his home, where his parents awaited him. They loved him deeply, and his entire village respected him. Zihang was known as a savior among the villagers. Whenever they faced trouble, they turned to him, and he never failed to help.
Days passed peacefully, with Zihang continuing his role as the protector of his village. However, the memory of Leeming and their brief encounter lingered in his mind like a faint whisper of something more to come.