Settling into the County

As the parrot flapped its wings and flew away, Chu Qingzhi returned to the young girl's home.

At this time, the old lady had gathered all the remaining people from the village at her house—about twenty in total, all over fifty years old. Thankfully, their age may have spared them from darker fates.

The old lady said to Chu Qingzhi, "Miss, everyone is here, and we've packed our belongings. When do we leave?"

Chu Qingzhi replied, "First, eat something to regain some strength; otherwise, you might not make it."

Heeding her advice, the old lady invited everyone inside, "Come on in, everyone. We have water and lotus roots to eat."

"You actually have food, that's amazing!"

"It's all thanks to the lady here. Without her, we'd be starving just like you."

"We've really met a kind soul."

Grinning, the old lady added, "Indeed, that's why it's important to be kind. You never know when you might lose your life."