Sunset Ancient City, once a peaceful little town, had become anything but tranquil with the arrival of a third-rank court official. Soldiers had stationed themselves throughout the city and patrolled on schedule every day.
After some days, the townsfolk gradually grew accustomed to the initial tension. No matter the time, ordinary people's ability to adapt was extraordinarily strong. So long as they were not driven to the point where they could no longer survive, they could endure whatever came their way.
In a corner of the eastern city, before a dilapidated house, a delicate-looking woman stuffed the little silver remaining in the household into the hands of the youth before her. Her somewhat pale face bore a stern expression as she said, "Xiao Wen, when you go out to study, you must strive to improve yourself. Before you earn fame and rank, you are not allowed to return. Otherwise, Mother will disown you."
"Mother..."
Tears brimmed in Xiao Wen's eyes. Five years had passed, and he had grown from a little boy into a young man, though a trace of youthful immaturity still lingered between his brows.
At the side, Ning Chen stepped forward and placed the travel funds he had prepared into the youth's hands. With a gentle expression, he said, "Listen to your mother. Work hard. This silver is a gift from your teacher. When your name appears on the Golden Scroll, come back and let your mother live a good life."
"Teacher..."
Holding the silver, hesitation flashed across Xiao Wen's face. He did not know whether he should accept it.
Xin Yu stepped forward and softly said, "Xiao Wen, being away from home is nothing like being at home. Take more silver with you in case of need. So long as you study diligently and one day