"Since you've made up your mind, that settles it." Zuo Dongxi shook his head. "Brother Chen, you two talk. I've had too much to drink. I'll go get some rest."
With that, he rose and went into the back hall.
Watching Zuo Dongxi's retreating figure, Chen Ye frowned almost imperceptibly.
He gave it no further thought and first explained to Skinny Monkey, Chen Er, exactly what basic information he wanted investigated.
Skinny Monkey nodded repeatedly. "Rest assured, Master Chen. I've remembered every word."
"Repeat it back to me."
Without thinking much of it, Skinny Monkey repeated Chen Ye's instructions.
With the business settled, Chen Ye abruptly changed the subject. "You said your parents died when you were young. Do you have any other family?"
Skinny Monkey paused, then smiled. "Yes, Master Chen. I have a nephew. My elder brother died young, and his wife remarried, leaving just the boy behind. He only turned eight this year. He's staying with some old neighbors in the south of the city. I take them some money every few days. That's how I provide for him."
"So this child is the only remaining bloodline of your Chen family?"
Skinny Monkey nodded with a smile. "Yes. He's the only seedling left in our branch of the family. Who knows whether I'll ever even manage to find a wife?"
Hearing this, Chen Ye considered for a moment before saying, "The mountains are high and the road to Danfeng Prefecture is long. Traveling alone, you could easily meet with some mishap. If you trust me, I'll look after the boy once you leave. Food, clothes, schooling, martial training—I won't let him lack any of it."
The smile froze on Skinny Monkey's face.
He stared fixedly at Chen Ye. After a long while, his eyes actually reddened a