Chapter 18: Bamboo Baskets Are Heavy
There wasn’t much porridge left in the bamboo tube; each person could only manage to take two sips.
Night had fallen completely, and Gu Yundong remained vigilant as she oversaw the area.
With so many people crowded at the city gates, she couldn’t afford to let her guard down.
Despite the darkness, both bright and flickering lights illuminated patches of the night, accompanied by various noises and the occasional distant scream.
In this place, it wasn’t unusual for people to starve to death daily, and robberies and fights happened frequently.
Chaos was inevitable. Gu Yundong contemplated that if the city officials didn’t find a solution soon, these minor disturbances could escalate into major disasters.
“Miss?” A familiar voice interrupted her thoughts.
Gu Yundong’s expression grew tense as she saw a figure staggering toward her. As he approached, she realized it was Uncle Yu, whom she had spoken with earlier.
Gu Yundong quickly stood up. “Sir, is there something wrong?”
“Miss,” Uncle Yu said in a hushed tone, closing in. “If you have the means to leave, do so quickly. My son and grandson have just returned and brought news that those people may attack first thing tomorrow morning. I fear for what may happen, and you won’t be able to escape with your siblings then.”
Gu Yundong was momentarily startled; she had anticipated chaos soon but hadn’t expected it to be this imminent.
“What about you, Uncle?” she asked.
Uncle Yu gave a wistful smile. “My son advises against getting involved. We plan to hide. As for what comes after, we will take it step by step. Now, you must hurry and not delay.”
Gu Yundong nodded, then gently woke Yang.
She instructed Yang to carry Gu Yunshu on his back and carry Gu Yunke herself.
They didn’t have many possessions; most were packed in their backpacks, ready to leave swiftly.
Gu Yundong noticed that nearby, several other families were discreetly preparing to depart as well, likely also privy to the unsettling news and unwilling to become embroiled in the upcoming conflict.
Though still somewhat groggy, Yang was compliant, and at her daughter’s urging, she readily followed.
As they passed Uncle Yu’s resting place, Gu Yundong glimpsed his gaunt son and grandson, who nodded at her respectfully.
Gu Yundong returned the nod and hesitated by the bamboo baskets they had left earlier.
Taking a few strides, Uncle Yu cautioned, “This area is near Wanqing Mansion, so be alert on your journey.”
“You take care as well,” Gu Yundong replied before adding, “Check the bamboo basket when you get back.”
With a purposeful yet light step, Gu Yundong led her family away, but she didn’t head towards Wanqing Mansion as Uncle Yu had mentioned. Once out of his sight, she turned and steered her family in the direction of Xuanhe Mansion, which was further off.
She suspected that the turmoil here would likely drive many to flee towards Wanqing Mansion and potentially even spread there.
With food in their possession, they wouldn’t starve on their journey. Seeking a safer destination, Gu Yundong decided that Xuanhe Mansion would be their best option for now.
After they had left and were out of sight, Uncle Yu turned back.
His son came forward to help him sit. “Dad, was that the family you spoke of earlier? It’s astonishing they managed to make it this far.”
“That girl is determined. I respect her strength; it reminds me of your mother in her younger days,” Uncle Yu said with emotion as he wiped his eyes. “Let’s get moving and hide in the mountains.”
“Alright.” The son helped Uncle Yu up and hoisted the bamboo basket onto his back.
For the first time, Uncle Yu noticed something peculiar. “How strange, why is this bamboo basket so heavy?”
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