Funan County, Huang Mansion.
Big Fat Dragon followed Second Madam back into the Inner Courtyard.
"Rest in the hall. Once your brother returns, the two of you can go see the master," Second Madam said in her melodious voice, then walked toward the hall of the Main House.
Once inside, Big Fat Dragon looked around. The furnishings were no different from those of any ordinary wealthy merchant's home.
He smiled. "Heh, Master Huang may devote himself to studying disguise and live in seclusion, but he certainly has a comfortable fortune."
Second Madam lit the lamps and said softly, "It was all accumulated years ago. We've been living off our savings ever since. Please don't laugh."
"Not at all. Errand runners like us can only envy you." Big Fat Dragon picked a guest chair at random and lowered himself into it.
"Please wait a moment, sir. I'll boil some water and make tea." With that courteous remark, Second Madam walked into the side hall.
From where Big Fat Dragon sat, he had a clear view of Second Madam's busy figure.
Before long, cheerful footsteps rang out.
A little girl of about seven or eight rushed through the hall doorway, calling, "Mother, aren't you going to bed yet?"
Big Fat Dragon looked toward the voice. The little girl had fair skin, delicate features, and two topknots sticking up from her head. She ran a little clumsily and looked very cute.
"I'm entertaining a guest. Why aren't you asleep?" Second Madam answered as she boiled the water.
"I can't sleep."
"It's late. Don't run around." Second Madam feigned annoyance as she scolded her, but her expression was full of affection.
"I'll sleep with you in a bit, Mother," the little girl said coaxingly, then turned toward Big Fat Dragon.
The grown man and