An Li slowed her steps as we turned into a quieter path, and the surroundings changed in a way that was easy to notice without needing to think too much about it.
The houses here were older, the walls looked worn, and the ground showed signs that fewer people passed through this area unless they truly had to.
"This is Unit 48," she said as she looked ahead, her tone calm. "The shelter house is just in front."
We followed her until she stopped at a simple wooden gate that looked like it had been repaired many times but never properly fixed.
"This is the place," she added before pushing the gate open.
Inside, the courtyard was small and plain, with no extra things placed around to make it comfortable. A few boys were already working, and none of them looked idle. One carried a bucket of water, another was cutting small pieces of wood, while two others were sorting what looked like dried leaves or herbs.
The moment we stepped in, they all noticed us.
Their movements slowed.
