After lunch, the three of them talked with Aibo and Vise. After a few simple questions and answers, they settled on where to carry out their plan at sunset.
There was nothing else to do until then, and as it happened, Aibo's and Vise's parents also had the afternoon off.
Ma Linya began learning from the two mothers how to weave and mend fishing nets and lines, while Zeng Mu and Kanni followed the two fathers to the mooring to inspect, repair, and reinforce the boats.
Two hours passed in a flash. Once the work was done, they returned to the wooden house for water and a rest. The two fathers began chatting with them about everyday matters, gradually revealing their origins and the history of Cloud Ink Town.
"Oh, if it hadn't been for the war, I would still be the second son of an estate owner. My father and elder brother would probably still be alive and well, too. But none of it could be saved. Like a pleasant dream from last night, it's impossible to hold on to, farther out of reach than the stars."
"My grandfather fled here as a refugee, which is why I was born here. According to my father, he used to be a baron. Even after all these years, I still sometimes imagine his old life in my dreams. Unfortunately, I know nothing about it. All I know is the life I have now. You couldn't call it prosperous or happy, but at least we have enough, and it's stable."
The two middle-aged fishermen, with their plain faces and sturdy bodies, were now sharing sorrows that others knew nothing about.
"All in all, life in Cloud Ink Town is pretty good. Peace like this is rare," Kanni said comfortingly.
"Yes, but who