Chapter 1599: Visit

Perhaps due to the rarity of carriages traversing this area, the deeper they ventured, the more curious onlookers gathered. Many children trailed behind them, their laughter and screams filling the air.

After navigating through a labyrinthine small alley, Ah-Ye guided the carriage past two sizable puddles, ultimately halting in front of a large, run-down courtyard.

Two robust locust trees stood outside the courtyard, their trunks resembling a tight embrace. The red bricks, half the height of a person, formed a dilapidated wall. Moss clung to the base, and the outer surface exhibited mottled patterns, revealing a grayish-white decay.

Wind and rain had eroded the original courtyard doors, now reduced to shambles. Though patched up, the wooden boards looked even more weathered, emphasizing the overall dilapidation.

Approaching, Lixia gently knocked on the door. It creaked open slightly. Surprised, she called inside, “Is anyone here? Does Mr. Zheng Sangge reside in this place?”

A stir echoed within the yard. Soon, an elderly woman cautiously opened the door, scrutinizing Lixia with cloudy eyes. She inquired, “Miss, who are you…”

Several children, both boys and girls, clustered behind the old lady. Clad in worn, patched clothing, they appeared small and frail. The oldest seemed no more than six or seven years old, while the youngest was a mere three years old.

Timid yet curious gazes met Lixia’s. Shyly, they averted their eyes, offering tentative and bashful smiles.

Lixia reciprocated with a hurried smile and explained, “We are friends of Mr. Zheng Sangge’s Old Master and Madam. We had agreed to visit Mr. Zheng two days ago. Is he at home?”

The old lady exclaimed, “Ah?” Then, with a smile, she said, “You’re Little Zheng’s friend? Come in, come in. Yan, Jing, come back with Uncle Zheng…”

The two children nodded and scurried away.

Several more elderly men emerged from the house, inquiring about the purpose of their visit.

Qiao Xuan extended a warm greeting, a smile lighting up her face as she entered with Lixia and Ah-Ye.

Initially a bit apprehensive, the elderly men quickly eased their nerves in the presence of Qiao Xuan’s amiable demeanor and gentle tone. They graciously invited her to take a seat in the room.

The courtyard, initially spacious, now teemed with structures. Besides the mud houses, there were wooden buildings with thatched roofs, exhibiting signs of age and decay.

Despite the limited space, the small area accommodated various crops like garlic sprouts, green onions, and coriander.

Understandably, with over 70 people residing here, the crowded conditions necessitated such construction.

“We don’t have much here, and the place is a bit messy. Madam Shao, please forgive us,” one of the elders apologized.

“It’s absolutely fine, don’t worry. You’re very welcome!” Qiao Xuan reassured them.

Having anticipated the sizable group, Qiao Xuan had brought ample food supplies. The three baskets unloaded from the wagon were brimming with pork, mutton, eggs, carrots, cabbages, winter melons, tofu, dried beans, dried mushrooms, various snacks, fresh apples, pears, dates, and more. Additionally, ten live chickens and 30 catties of rice and noodles rounded out the provisions.

Expressing profound gratitude, the elders conveyed their thanks, while the children’s eyes sparkled with desire as they gazed at the array of offerings.

Qiao Xuan, maintaining her warm demeanor, instructed Mianmian to open a packet of peanuts and sesame candy for everyone to enjoy.

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