"Who is Brother Ma Zi inviting that warrants such seriousness, even requiring a whole day of preparation?"
Upon hearing Hu Ma's instructions, both Li and the slightly cheered Zhou Datong displayed somewhat awkward expressions. Observing the slightly stern look on Hu Ma's face, they dared not inquire further.
The evening passed with everyone retiring early. The following morning, Li brought two helpers to prepare some food and drinks at the Manor, even moving in square tables, arranging them on either side. The meat and wine were procured from the town and were of good quality.
Throughout that day, Hu Ma indeed did nothing but sit at the table, waiting. Li and the others, seeing the sky darken without any signs, assumed Hu Ma was summoning some evil spirits; familiar with such situations, they quickly locked themselves in their rooms.
Hu Ma waited in silence for a long time. It was nearing 7 p.m. when the sound of the Manor's gate creaking open reached him.
