Though children spoke without restraint, Qiu Wa's words still made Old Devil Xu's old face flush red. He glared at her. "What nonsense are you spouting? Who's trying to climb the social ladder? You're so young—where did you hear that? And you went snooping on other people's conversations again, even though I told you not to. If you don't behave, I won't buy you any more snacks."
Qiu Wa huffed. "I've got plenty right here. Look, I even have this kind of candy. Have you ever seen it?"
As she spoke, she opened her little hand, revealing several colorful candies shaped like adorable animals. They were exquisitely made and shimmering with spiritual energy—not ordinary sweets by any means.
"Where did you get those?"
"Big Sister Xuan gave them to me."
"Xuan... How did you...?"
Xu Yi's eyes widened.
Qiu Wa rolled her eyes. "She's your master, and she knows about me. We were bound to meet sooner or later, so I went to see her. Besides, I'm so cute and lovable. Which of the big sisters around you doesn't like me? Why would Big Sister Xuan be any different?"
Xu Yi was speechless. Qiu Wa really had grown up. She used to be merely sweet and innocent, but now she was much sharper. Whatever he said, she always had a reply ready.
"You're such a handful. You've only known her for a few days. Bad people don't all have it written on their faces."
Xu Yi tried to warn her, exasperated.
"Who's a bad person?"
A crisp voice rang out as the door swung open. Vice Dean Xuan, cool and sexy, strode in on a pair of outrageously long legs. "I control the ultimate ward protecting this courtyard. You'd better think before you speak. What's the punishment for defying your