Yan Xiaobao pulled his thoughts back to the present, lowering his gaze to the gravel road leading out of the village. He was wearing new white clothes, with a small bundle strapped to his back containing spare clothes and a few personal items.
He had been waiting since morning, unsure when the Rong twins and their family guards would come to fetch him. The sun had long risen high into the sky, and now it was past noon, yet Yan Xiaobao continued to wait patiently.
The villagers decided to only tend to the absolutely necessary chores today so they could see off their promising young boy. Each villager approached Yan Xiaobao, wishing him success in his endeavors or reminding him to visit them occasionally. Some even implored him to become a great man, someone who could bring fame to this unknown village.
