South Mao, North Ma.

Summary

The narrative unfolds on a dark night marked by the protagonist's father's death, which is met with a calm acceptance by the family. The protagonist, as the eldest son, assumes the responsibilities of notifying relatives and overseeing funeral arrangements, guided by his big grandma. Customs dictate various rituals, including embalming and burial practices, which he dutifully performs. Amidst the somber events, a mysterious beggar claiming to be a friend of the father appears, hinting at future revelations. Following the funeral, the family faces financial hardships, leading to the mother’s remarriage to Uncle Zhang, who helps with farming. The protagonist and his brother move in with their grandmother for schooling, where they meet a transformative friend, Ma Nao, setting the stage for further adventures.

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