The villager laughed it off. "Yes. They are travellers and got lost in the forest last night."
A few people gasped, immediately looking at Rong Xi and Lu Jinchen with sympathy and curiosity.
"Good that you brought them home, Old Zhou," a woman said. "The forest has not been kind lately."
"Yes, yes," he replied, waving them off. "Go about your work."
He finally led them into a small but tidy house at the edge of the city. His wife hurried out, surprised to see guests but quick to prepare food nonetheless.
Soon, the table was filled with warm porridge, flatbread, and steamed buns.
Rong Xi felt her eyes sting slightly at the simple kindness. She bowed again. "Thank you so much. We truly don't know how to repay you."
Lu Jinchen added quietly, "Your kindness will not be forgotten."
The old couple only laughed. "Eat first. Strength is more important than thanks."
After finishing their meal, Lu Jinchen set down his bowl carefully and inclined his head toward the old man.
