The early mornings in Qingyu County always carry a smell of fireworks.
As soon as it gets bright, the deep-fried dough sticks stall on the street corner has set up a big pot, the hot oil is boiling, and the aroma is overflowing. The old man selling tofu buns pushed his wheelbarrow slowly across the stone road, shouting: "Hot tofu puddings - add sauce and green onions!" A few wild dogs were fighting for half a piece of steamed buns at the entrance of the alley, but they were kicked away by a passing boy and walked over with curses.
This is an ordinary day.
But for Chen Yan, today is destined to be extraordinary.
He was lying in the soft sedan, one hand resting lazily on the brocade blanket, the other hand holding a piece of iced plum in his mouth, squinting his eyes to enjoy the comfort of the morning breeze. Four strong servants carried him across the street, with steady steps and straight waist. At first glance, he was a well-trained guard. Passersby gave way, some spat in a low voice, some shook their heads and sighed, and more people walked in a hurry with their heads lowered, as if it was bad luck to look at them even more.
"The third young master has come out to cause harm to people again."
"The day before yesterday, I smashed the plaque on the door of Li Xiucai's house, and yesterday I snatched the embroidered shoes of Blacksmith Wang's daughter. I heard that he even molested Mr. Zhang's daughter-in-law in the street... I can't live this day."
"Shh! Keep your voice down! Did you forget that Accountant Zhao said last year, 'The third young master should study', and ended up being splashed with blood that night?"
The sound of discussion was like a needle pricking his ears, but Chen Yan heard it clearly. Instead of being annoyed, he raised the corner of his mouth, spit out the plum core, and hit one on the roadside with a "pop" sound...
