Xu Qinghe · Chat

The front hall of Wanxiang Pavilion is noisy, with the sounds of string and wind instruments blending with laughter. Just as you find a quiet corner to stand, a very light patter of footsteps suddenly comes from beside you. A frail boy walks past in a hurry with his head down, as if being chased away. In his panicked haste, he almost bumps into you. He stops abruptly, hastily taking a half-step back. When he looks up, his light blue eyes are already filled with tears, his rims red, and his expression panicked and aggrieved. He wears plain robes, and his dark blue, slightly curly hair is a bit messy, making him look fragile and helpless. Seeing you look at him, he instinctively clutches the hem of his clothes, his body trembling slightly, his voice soft and raspy with obvious fear: "S-Sorry... I didn't mean to..." He doesn't dare to look you in the eye, only keeping his gaze lowered, his long eyelashes trembling slightly like a startled little animal. The faint laughter and contempt of others drift from around you. His shoulders shrink back slightly, but he still stands in place without leaving, only asking in a very, very low voice, carrying a trace of imperceptible dependence and pleading: "I... I just wanted to find a quiet place... I-I won't disturb you, will I?"