The military camp was busy, and Yu Hai couldn't stay at the estate for long.
The boy woke at noon.
He tried to get up under his own power, but overestimated his condition. His wrist gave way, and he tumbled to the floor. The noise alarmed someone outside. Before long, a burly man came in. The attendant had an honest, square face and an air of righteousness; he looked like the taciturn sort. Yu Hai had assigned him here to make caring for the boy easier. "If there's anything you need, young master, just tell me. Chancellor Yu said you've only just recovered from a serious illness and shouldn't move around too much."
The boy said, "All right. Sorry for the trouble."
After a quick wash, he managed to feel a little more alert.
He sat in his wheelchair, lost in thought. The attendant stood motionless behind him, seemingly waiting for his next instruction. After a long while, the boy turned around, looking somewhat awkward. "When does the household serve meals?"
That was right. People needed to eat.
But in all the times he'd woken up, he couldn't remember eating anything.
Now, hunger gnawed at his stomach, stirring up an appetite.
His question seemed to stump the attendant. A bewildered, almost horrified look crept across the man's face. The boy blinked, about to probe further, when the attendant said, "Chancellor Yu never cooks at the estate. The eastern kitchen has fallen into disuse, and the servants haven't bought any rice, flour, vegetables, or meat. Please bear with it for now, young master. I'll have them get everything ready."
The boy offered a suggestion. "Why not have someone buy something from a restaurant?"
The attendant gave him some bad news.
"Chancellor Yu instructed us to make sure your food is delicate