Blossom in Adversity

C18. Fourth Uncle's Dowry.

Chapter Eighteen: Fourth Uncle's Dowry

At the same time, Hua Zhi arrived at the Hua family's villa outside the city.

For convenience of travel, she had the steward buy two short-legged horses. With many female family members, they couldn't do without a carriage.

Because of the large number of people, only Ying Chun was left as the senior maid in the house. The second-tier maids brought four people, and Steward Xu also selected six trustworthy servants from the front yard. He brought his second son, Xu Ying, along, feeling reassured.

The villa, though modest in size, possessed an enchanting atmosphere that was truly captivating. Nestled amidst a verdant bamboo grove, the gentle breeze whispered through the leaves, creating a serene symphony that soothed the soul.

The sound of rustling bamboo, combined with the dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy, evoked a sense of tranquility and peace. Even on the hottest days, strolling through the grounds felt refreshingly cool, as the shade provided by the bamboo trees offered respite from the scorching sun.

The villa's intimate setting, coupled with the natural beauty of its surroundings, made it an idyllic retreat for those seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Fourth Uncle loved to invite friends over here for drinking and merriment. He spent almost half of the summer here. Previously, when the raided happened, he was taken away from here. Hua Zhi wondered if Fourth Uncle was awake or drunk at that time. But even if he was drunk, he probably got a scare.

Imagining that scenario, Hua Zhi couldn't help but smirk. But after laughing, she felt a pang in her heart. Knowing Fourth Uncle's character, even if he was initially shocked, he would quickly adapt. He had said before, anyone eating royal rice could be unlucky, and now it was the Hua family's turn.

"Miss..." Bao Xia looked at her young lady with worry, feeling uneasy herself.

Fourth Master had a close relationship with the young lady. He always thought of her when bringing back good things. She didn't know if they were going through hardships now.

"I'm fine."

The eight servants of the villa, their heads bowed in deference, greeted Hua Zhi. She acknowledged their salutations with a subtle nod, her gaze sweeping over the courtyard. Though the servants had clearly exerted themselves to restore the villa to its previous state, the marks of intrusion were still evident. Certain things, once displaced, could never be truly returned.

Looking at the empty spaces, a sense of melancholy arose within Hua Zhi.

With just a decree from the emperor, the streets could flow with blood at the Wu (TNote: Meridian) Gate. That was the power of the emperor. Compared to that, the Hua family's exile was already considered lucky.

Hua Zhi walked towards the back courtyard, instructing, "Xu Ying, follow me, and everyone else can go about their tasks."

"Yes."

Xu Ying had been instructed by his father as soon as he came out. Without saying a word, he followed behind.

This villa, a secluded retreat nestled amidst lush greenery, served as the Hua family's private sanctuary. It was here that Hu Pingyang sought solace and respite from the demands of his busy life. While the villa was generally off-limits to outsiders, Hua Zhi had the privilege of accompanying Fourth Uncle on a few visits.

Upon each visit, Fourth Uncle would approach the locust tree in the backyard with a sense of reverence and affection. He would pat its gnarled trunk, as if greeting an old and trusted companion, and then embark on a leisurely stroll around its base. The tree, a silent witness to countless family gatherings and personal moments, seemed to hold a special place in Fourth Uncle's heart.