Chapter 19

My father has been gone for seven months now. It’s said that the situation with the rebellion is not going well.

Grandmother goes up the mountain every day to pray for him, and she didn’t return even for the New Year.

New Year’s Eve in the residence felt rather quiet and cold.

After the ancestral rites, my mother let each branch of the family return to their own courtyards to keep vigil for the New Year, which was more comfortable for everyone.

I lingered in my mother’s room.

She had known about Chen Yi’s situation for a long time. After meeting Chen Yi once, she thought he was truly suited to be developed by the Organization. So she went along with me.

She herself was even busier.

At the Academy, I was responsible for professional knowledge, while my mother was in charge of recruiting people.

In this regard, I have great faith in her ability to spread the word.

Even if one day a Red Banner were raised somewhere, I wouldn’t be surprised.

After midnight, having received my New Year’s money, I returned to my courtyard satisfied.

I sat in front of the mirror, planning to hide my little stash of gold.

But I discovered a Hairpin lying right in front of my dressing table.

The Hairpin had a very unique design.

At the top, an ear of grain was carved from Yellow Jade. It wasn’t particularly exquisite, but each grain of rice was plump and round.

Beneath the Hairpin was a piece of paper.

“Another year passes as we grow old; with spring comes even finer blossoms.”