On the way down the mountain, I was as stiff as a corpse, with scenes of what had just happened repeating in my mind.

In front of the cliff cave, the little girl clearly mouthed, "Run!"

Back in the house, Master Qingning took out a paper package containing some yellowish powder.

"Do you remember what I told you on the mountain?" She steadied my shoulders and advised, "After eating the fish roe, we need fertilization. We only have one chance. If we control them, we can escape."

I nodded slowly, my mind blank.

Seeing my dumbfounded expression, she curved her lips slightly, a hint of smugness between her eyebrows. "It's been a long time since they caught a new fish girl. Otherwise, they wouldn't dare take me into the village at the risk of their lives..."

Indeed, it was past noon when the door was knocked.

Master Qingning and I wrapped ourselves in a quilt, pretending to have just woken up.

Aunt Yu glanced at the empty bowls on the table, her smile growing even more pronounced.

"Get up quickly, the village chief has good news for you."

A premonition stirred in my heart. I exchanged a glance with Master Qingning and obediently followed.

When we arrived at the main hall, it was already filled with people.

Old and young, without exception, they were all males.

As we entered, pairs of eyes seemed to stick to me as if they had substance.

Feeling uncomfortable, I shrunk my shoulders and was about to step back, but Aunt Yu's hand pressed against my waist.

The village chief surveyed the room, smiling. "Nannan will be the daughter-in-law of our Yu family from now on. The villagers are welcoming you."

The villagers burst into laughter as if on cue. The village chief raised his hand, clearing his throat:

"In my opinion, let's have a feast at home tonight. It's been a long time since the village had a lively celebration."

Before I could speak, Aunt Yu winked at me and beamed, "That's great! My foolish son is still sleeping in his bed. I'll go wake him up in a bit."

"It's a joyous occasion!"

"We have rice at home. I'll bring it over soon."

...

From beginning to end, I never had a chance to say a word.