The village chief lived in a place with a huge courtyard.
Chen Changan and Bao Dating had just reached the courtyard gate when a group of children came running out.
Bao Dating wasn't surprised in the least. The children, however, all broke into expectant smiles when they saw him.
"Brother Bao, where are the presents? Where are they?"
"What did you bring us this time?"
"Did you bring anything tasty?"
"Any candy?"
"Did you bring any fun toys?"
Surrounded by the children, Bao Dating wore a fond smile.
"Yes, yes, yes. There's something for everyone."
"But I have something important to take care of right now. How about you all head home like good children?"
At Bao Dating's words, the children obediently nodded, waved goodbye to him, and ran off toward their respective homes.
"The children in the village all come here to study under the village chief."
"The chief must have known outsiders were coming, so he sent them home first."
"Let's go."
Bao Dating explained as he pushed open the door to the village chief's house.
The moment they stepped inside, Chen Changan could clearly sense Bao Dating's whole demeanor change.
He grew solemn and respectful. After all, in Bao Dating's heart, the village chief was both a master and a father figure—the person he respected and was closest to above all others.
"Stop!"
"I've told you, you can do whatever you want out there. I won't restrict your actions."
"But there's one thing you must never do: don't bring outsiders back here."
"You'd better have a reason that can convince me."
"Otherwise, you'll have to answer not only to me, but to everyone in the village."
They had barely taken a couple of steps when the village chief's voice reached Chen Changan and Bao Dating.
Chen Changan