Leaving aside Jiang Lang's trip to ask the Dragon Lord for permission to bring rain, the downpour that had just ended over Lingdong filled everyone, from officials to ordinary people, with joy.
Qi Zhongbin and Hui Mian had already taken shelter from the rain at an old farmer's home in a village.
The farmer's wife had gone missing in the flood, and her body had still not been found. His daughter had married a man from the village, and her whole family was safe. His son was not yet married and was traveling with the revitalization sima's crew, digging canals and wells.
The old farmer had been home alone lately, so Qi Zhongbin's visit to shelter from the rain at least gave him someone to talk to.
But the rain had now stopped, and Qi Zhongbin said his farewells, ready to leave.
Hearing that Qi Zhongbin was leaving, the old farmer was astonished.
"Ah, elder brother, you're still going out this late? It's almost dark. Stay the night and have a simple meal here!"
It had already been late when the rain stopped, and by now the light had grown rather dim.
Though life was difficult, the court provided some relief, and many households had workers employed on government projects. The money and grain they earned were enough to keep them going without much trouble, with a little to spare for treating a guest to a meal.
"No, I still have something to attend to. If I keep delaying, I'll miss my chance. Thank you for letting me shelter from the rain, younger brother!"
Qi Zhongbin solemnly cupped his hands at the doorway, then left despite the old man's attempts to keep him. Outside the courtyard, he bowed once more before striding away.
The rain had filled the village with