As it turned out, Li Chen had taken precautions just in time.
That very night, a band of criminals launched a fierce assault on his private courtyard. Someone set a fire out front to draw attention while several peak acquired-realm experts struck at once, attempting to abduct him. Not only were they driven back, they also left several lives behind.
The losses dealt them a crippling blow. They should have been unable to attack again for some time.
Li Chen did not gamble on that, however. He had already moved back to the Rear Courtyard to live with his mother and sisters.
Nearly half a month later, the old patriarch and Father Li hurried back to the estate, only to find Li Chen dressed in colorful clothes, playing cat's cradle with his older sister in a harmonious scene.
"My Little Chen'er, why are you dressed like this?" Unable to suppress a chuckle, the old patriarch gathered Li Chen into his arms and doted on him.
Li Chen was fair, rosy, and adorable, and still very young. Dressed like this, it was impossible to tell whether he was a boy or a girl.
Father Li's mouth twitched. He had rushed home in a burning panic after hearing the news, never imagining that this would be what awaited him.
"You needn't worry. Things here aren't too serious. I've already announced that Chen was sent elsewhere to recuperate, but just what is going on with our enemies remains difficult to fathom." Li Chen's eldest uncle in this life came to the Rear Courtyard and, after greeting his father and third brother, began discussing matters with them.
The old patriarch snorted coldly. "Ultimately, they're the remnants of those we defeated years ago. They only dare use schemes against women and children. What a disgrace