"What are you all standing around for?"
As the villagers crowded noisily at the entrance of the village, the old clan leader's words instantly reminded everyone of the most important task at hand: "Go inform Datong's mother—kill the chickens, heat the wine, steam the buns…"
"The kids are back! We’re setting up a feast! Everyone, come and eat, come and eat!"
The villagers burst into laughter, ushering Hu Ma and the others, along with the carriage, into the village.
Someone had already informed Zhou Datong’s mother and his simple, honest father.
The courtyard gates were wide open, and tables and stools borrowed from neighbors were set up under a makeshift canopy, ready for the feast.
Normally, since this was just their own children returning for the New Year, it wouldn’t be considered a village-wide event, and the village wouldn’t host a feast in their name.
But the old clan leader was overjoyed and didn’t want the kids to scatter back to their homes to eat as soon as they arrived.
So, table after table was added, turning it into a grand, flowing banquet.
Without needing to be asked, the families of Zhou, Liang, Zhao, and Li brought over vegetables, meat, rice, and flour to help out.