Although Zhang Bao'er knew that immortals and mortals were worlds apart, she had barely set foot in the mortal world and had never expected these people to react like this.
The old men were still trembling like sieves. Zhang Bao'er immediately lost interest. Suddenly, she bowed to them. "At any rate, I've broadened my horizons and learned a new skill by accompanying you elders today. I'm grateful."
As she spoke, she waved her hand and scattered some silver coins. She was just about to call Zhang Baoyu to leave when she looked over and realized that the spot where Zhang Baoyu had been sitting was now completely empty.
This was a terrible shock. Zhang Bao'er's little face turned green with panic, and she was about to shout when she heard someone say, "The way you keep your eye on that child, someone could sell him off and you wouldn't even notice."
Looking toward the voice, she saw that it was none other than Xu Yi. The chubby little Zhang Baoyu was sprawled in front of a huge table laden with delicacies, his round face nearly buried in a roast suckling pig with scallions. Only one pudgy white hand remained visible, waving at Zhang Bao'er.
Zhang Bao'er was both delighted and annoyed. She was delighted that the trip hadn't been in vain after all, since she'd run into an old friend. She was annoyed because Zhang Baoyu was a complete and utter glutton who only knew how to eat. He was so embarrassing.
Xu Yi beckoned to Zhang Bao'er. She soared up into the clouds and smiled at him. "It's only been a few days, Big Brother Xu, and you're already the City God of a prefecture. Congratulations."
Xu Yi smiled. "It's been a few years, and Bao'er has grown taller.