「The next day. Early morning.」
The wind and snow had just subsided, and the Chen Family Courtyard on Changping Street was bathed in the crisp morning light.
Chen Qing watched his mother, Ms. Han, bustling about. After a moment of contemplation, he finally spoke.
"Mom, I'm planning to go to the Prefecture City."
Ms. Han's hand, which was wiping the table, froze. She jerked her head up, her eyes filled with shock and reluctance. "The Prefecture City? That's so far… When are you leaving?"
Her voice carried an imperceptible tremor.
"I'll set out in three days."
Chen Qing said slowly, "I might be gone for a while, but I'll take good care of myself. I've left enough silver coins at home, so please don't worry. If you run into any trouble, go find Cheng Ming or my master."
Ms. Han's eyes instantly reddened. A thousand words caught in her throat, finally escaping as a long sigh. She turned away to wipe the corners of her eyes. "I understand. Your father… Sigh, just be safe."
