The chill of early spring is sharp, a gust of north wind rises, making people shiver uncontrollably.
The maid kneels under the veranda, shivering at the sound of Mrs. Zhou's voice, trying to get up, but her legs are weak, and she fails several times.
Nanny Shan takes a deep breath, regains some composure, grabs the maid, and half-supports, half-drags her into the West Warm Pavilion.
In Madam Wu's room, someone of this maid's status wouldn't be allowed in.
It's her first time inside, she can't spare a glance around, and as soon as Nanny Shan releases her hand, she falls to the ground again.
Madam Wu glares at her.
Mrs. Zhou, while consoling Madam Wu, asks, "What did you say outside just now? Repeat it carefully."
"Alas, alas!" The maid nods vigorously, stammeringly recounts her words, "News from the Northern Border says the Dazi invaded, Mr. Si died in battle..."
Madam Wu's eyes suddenly tighten, nearly losing her breath.
Nanny Shan hurriedly pinches Madam Wu's philtrum.
