New Year's Eve had passed.
"Crackle, pop..."
Early that morning, the sound of firecrackers outside kept Lian Youming from sleeping.
"Dad, Mom, happy New Year!"
But the moment he stepped out, he saw Lian Lei holding an aluminum basin and kowtowing nonstop in their parents' room, banging the bottom of the basin with loud clangs.
Dazhuang and Xiaozhuang were in there copying him. "Uncle, Auntie, happy New Year!"
When the three emerged, each held a ten-cent note, grinning from ear to ear.
"Look at you three. That's all it takes to satisfy you?"
Lian Youming yawned, then took the aluminum basin and went inside under their disdainful gazes.
Clang, clang, clang.
"Dad, Mom, happy New Year!"
They still had to keep the New Year spirit alive.
After offering his greetings, Lian Youming hung a string of firecrackers from a bamboo pole and stood at the courtyard gate, calling loudly to the neighbors. "Happy New Year, everyone! Wishing you all harmony, happiness, peace, and joy!"
"Crackle, pop..."
Only after the firecrackers finished did he wash up, steam a plate of dumplings, and slice a small dish of braised meat before heading toward the Junk King's courtyard. This was a powerful backer; he had to look after him properly.
"Old man, I've brought you an offering... Huh..."
In just one night, the Junk King had even tidied his hair and beard. His white hair hung loose, and his thick, frost-silver beard curled wildly like a lion's mane. Sitting there, his whole bearing had changed, taking on an intangible air of unbridled wildness. His eyes were half-closed, their outer corners drooping, and he seemed unwilling even to look anyone straight in the face. "Doesn't being nice and clean look much better?"
Lian Youming set down the food, then chuckled and rubbed his hands.