The guard's anger did not last long.
He looked at the pouch again, then at Li Manman, and slowly calmed down.
"Hmph," he scoffed.
Without saying more, he reached into the box and took out a wooden token.
"House number eight," he said, handing it to her.
Li Manman smiled sweetly as she collected it.
"Thank you," she said softly.
Then she turned and walked back, her steps light, her expression proud.
Fu Fong stood beside her, his face still dark, but he said nothing more.
Behind them, Fu Jia could not hide her expression.
She let out a small laugh and crossed her arms.
"Some people really overestimate themselves," she said loudly.
Her eyes moved toward us.
"They cannot even afford fifty taels, yet they are still standing here like they belong among us."
Aunt Fu smirked slightly.
"Exactly," she added. "If you cannot afford it, then just accept your place quietly."
Grandma Fu also snorted.
"Some people should know their limits," she said.
