“Please, no need for formalities,” Ruiping laughed.
“Is the young lady awake?” asked Mrs. Xu, along with several daughters-in-law, standing by the door.
“Madam,” Xu Caitong greeted the elderly lady, “I am awake. Please come in.”
“The young lady must be a celestial being descended to earth. Look at her delicate fingers and smooth, tender skin. It’s just a pity that her attire is of plain cloth, which somewhat detracts from her nobility. However, it’s much better than what she wore when she arrived, and it suits her well,” Mrs. Xu remarked, examining Xu Caitong from head to toe and holding her hand.
“Yes, it suits her well,” the daughters-in-law agreed.
Xu Caitong did look quite the part in those clothes; though made of simple fabric, they couldn’t hide her beauty. Her face was fair with a rosy glow, her eyes were lively, her lips as red as cherries, and her nose was delicately charming. Ruiping helped Caitong comb her disheveled hair into a half-updo, transforming her into a genuine ancient maiden.
“Did the young lady rest well?” Mrs. Xu inquired with concern, sitting by the bed. “Our humble abode might be too simple for you, please do not feel slighted.”
“How could I feel slighted, Mrs. Xu? I am grateful for your hospitality,” Xu Caitong thanked her repeatedly. Her speech had also started to adapt to the local customs; she knew that without the kindness of this welcoming family, she might have starved on the streets.
“Good, good. Please feel at home here until you find your way back,” Mrs. Xu said.
“Thank you, thank you, Mrs. Xu,” Caitong bowed deeply in gratitude.
