The Stone Carver.

Summary

Gu Hai reveals to the narrator that the Gu family's decline stems from a powerful ancestor who vanished after achieving great strength. This ancestor's disappearance led to internal betrayal and external attacks, resulting in the loss of talented stele carvers and the family's current weakness. The narrator, understanding their plight, agrees to spare them but warns of future misdeeds. Gu Hai expresses gratitude, and the narrator accepts an offer for a new residence. Later, the narrator prepares a valuable chicken blood ginseng soup, which impresses Old Zheng, who kneels in gratitude. The narrator insists on not being repaid, emphasizing their bond instead.

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