Siheyuan: Buyers get rich from hunting

Liu Ping'an's footsteps slowly moved along the streets of Hong Kong, and each step seemed to be on the vein of history. The heavy thoughts in his heart did not ease at all because of solving the troubles in front of him. He knew that the disputes among the young and dangerous were only a trivial part of the complex texture of this city. The challenges that truly tested his wisdom and courage, as well as those opportunities that could rewrite his destiny, were like undercurrents, quietly surging in the depths of this city.

"I must understand this place more deeply before I can gain a firm foothold on this land." Liu Ping'an thought to himself, looking into the distance with a firm gaze. He realized that in order to find his place in this land full of opportunities and challenges, he must first start by understanding its present and past.

When his sight finally fell on the inconspicuous newsstand, he felt an inexplicable sense of familiarity. It was not only because the newspaper could provide him with information, but also because the existence of this tradition made him feel the unique life atmosphere and cultural heritage of Hong Kong.

"Boss, give me the latest newspaper." Liu Ping'an's voice was gentle but with a firmness that could not be ignored. He communicated with his boss in Cantonese that was as standard as possible, trying to narrow the distance between himself and this city.

The boss's smile was as warm as spring. He skillfully pulled out the newspaper, his movements revealing a calmness that comes from years of experience. "Young man, are you new here? Read more newspapers, so you can get familiar with Hong Kong more quickly." The boss's words were full of friendliness and encouragement.

Liu Pingan took the newspaper and gently ran his fingertips over the slightly rough paper, as if he could touch the texture of time. He read every article carefully, from the brilliant achievements of economic prosperity to the profound analysis of social problems. Every word was like a key, trying to open the door to his memory of Hong Kong.

"The drought was really tough that year," Liu Ping'an muttered to himself, with those historical scenes emerging in his mind: the long queues of people queuing for water, the dry land, and the scene of the people of Hong Kong uniting as one to overcome difficulties after the crisis. He knew very well that those seemingly distant historical events had actually been deeply imprinted in the genes of this city, affecting its every breath and every change.

As Liu Pingan read more, his understanding of Hong Kong gradually deepened. He realized that this city is not only an economic miracle, but also a cultural melting pot, a stage where dreams and reality intertwine. The rise of the film industry, the flow of music, and the blossoming of art all make Hong Kong vivid and colorful.

After closing the newspaper, Liu Pingan's heart was filled with new determination. He decided not only to find opportunities in this land, but also to become a part of it and write his own story about Hong Kong in his own way. In the next few days, he visited almost every corner of Hong Kong, from the tranquility of the History Museum to the hustle and bustle of Victoria Harbour, from the fireworks of the old streets and alleys to the exquisite delicacies of high-end restaurants. Each place gave him a deeper understanding and perception of this city.

"Hong Kong, now that I'm here, I won't leave easily." Liu Ping'an made a silent promise in his heart. He knew that his story with this city had just begun.

At this moment, Liu Ping'an's attention seemed to be drawn by an invisible force, and he was once again deeply attracted by a rapid and helpless cry for help. The voice, with a bit of trembling and despair, seemed to penetrate the night and came from a dark and narrow alley not far away. His heartbeat accelerated involuntarily, and a strong sense of justice and sympathy for the weak instantly surged in his heart, driving him to not turn a deaf ear or stand idly by. So, he quickened his pace without hesitation, almost trotting towards the source of the voice, and every step seemed so firm and powerful.

Walking into the dim alley, Liu Ping'an saw an unpleasant scene: several ruffians with ferocious faces were surrounding a weak woman. Their figures looked particularly eerie under the dim light, and they were trying to do something bad to her. The woman's face was full of fear and helplessness, and tears were rolling in her eyes, as if she was about to collapse in the next moment.

"Stop!" Liu Ping'an's voice was deep and powerful, like a thunderbolt that broke the silence of the alley. He straightened his spine, stared at the bad guys with his eyes like torches, and exuded a righteous spirit that should not be underestimated. The young and dangerous guys were startled by the sudden shouting, and they were stunned for a moment, and then showed a disdainful look, obviously not taking this seemingly weak and ordinary-dressed young man seriously.

"Kid, mind your own business, or I'll get you into trouble too!" One of the leading gangsters threatened viciously, his tone full of provocation and threats.

However, Liu Ping'an did not retreat. He knew very well that at this moment, retreating would mean compromise with evil and betrayal of justice. He slowly rolled up the newspaper in his hand, which seemed to have become a weapon in his hand. Although it seemed harmless, it revealed an unquestionable determination and strength. "I say it again, let her go." His voice was not loud, but every word was loud and clear, as if there was an invisible force supporting him.

The air around them seemed to freeze at this moment, and the gangsters looked at each other, obviously intimidated by Liu Ping'an's imposing aura. Although they were unwilling, they finally let the woman go, cursed and left, disappearing at the end of the alley.

The woman was finally freed. She burst into tears of gratitude and thanked him repeatedly: "Thank you, sir. If it weren't for you, I really don't know what I should do. You appeared in front of me like my guardian angel."

Liu Ping'an shook his head gently and said with a smile: "You're welcome. This is what I should do. Hong Kong is our home, and each of us has the responsibility to protect it and prevent it from any harm." His smile was warm and sincere, as if it could dispel the coldness in people's hearts.

Just as Liu Ping'an was about to turn around and leave, the woman he rescued suddenly called out to him, "Sir, please wait a moment." There was a hint of urgency and sincerity in her voice.

He stopped and looked back at the woman, only to see that her eyes were full of gratitude and sincerity, as if she had a thousand words to express. "Sir, you saved me, and I really don't know how to repay you. If you don't mind, I would like to ask you to let me give you a small gift, or... or can you let me take you home? This way I can feel a little more at ease." There was a bit of shyness and expectation in her tone.

Liu Pingan smiled slightly. He could understand the woman's feelings at the moment. After being rescued, it is a natural reaction to want to do something to express gratitude. But he did not want to bring extra burden or pressure to the woman, so he gently refused: "Thank you for your kindness, but I really don't need anything in return. As for sending you home, if you don't mind, I can walk with you for a while and make sure you get home safely."

The woman nodded gratefully, a trace of relief flashing in her eyes. She seemed to have found a shoulder to lean on, and the fear and anxiety in her heart gradually dissipated.

On the way home, the woman introduced herself as Lin Wanqing, the owner of a small bookstore. She told Liu Pingan that those hooligans were notorious hooligans in the neighborhood and often harassed the neighbors. Fortunately, she met him today, otherwise the consequences would be disastrous. Her tone was full of gratitude and admiration for Liu Pingan.

Liu Pingan listened to Lin Wanqing's story, nodded his head from time to time to show his understanding, and occasionally asked a few questions to learn more about the situation in this area. He found that Lin Wanqing was not only gentle and kind, but also very tenacious. Even though life was not easy and the bookstore was struggling, she never gave up the pursuit of a better life and her love of knowledge. This persistence and perseverance moved him and made him admire her.

As they walked, they came to a slightly shabby but bookish alley. Lin Wanqing pointed to a dim light not far away and said, "That's my bookstore, and it's also my home." Her tone was full of pride and warmth. Liu Pingan looked up and saw a handwritten plaque of "Qingfeng Bookstore" hanging on a wooden door, which looked particularly eye-catching and warm in the night. The dim light seemed to be guiding them, and it also seemed to be telling the story of the bookstore and the feelings of the owner.

After escorting Lin Wanqing into the house, Liu Pingan looked around and saw that the bookshelves were filled with all kinds of books, from classical literature to modern novels, from philosophical thinking to scientific exploration. The air was filled with the faint scent of ink and books, which made people slow down their pace involuntarily and immerse themselves in this tranquility and beauty. Lin Wanqing brought two cups of hot tea and said gratefully: "Thank you so much, Mr. Liu. If it weren't for you, I really don't know what I would do. This cup of tea is a little gift from me, please be sure to drink it."

Liu Ping'an took the teacup, smiled and said, "It's just a small favor, nothing to mention. However, you should be more careful in the future and try to avoid going out alone at night. Although this world is a beautiful place, there are also some dark corners that we need to be vigilant about." His tone was full of concern and advice.

The two chatted over tea, from books to life ideals, from the past to the future. They found that they had a lot in common, as if they had found a confidant to whom they could confide. Time passed quietly, and when Liu Ping'an was about to leave, Lin Wanqing took a yellowed book from the bookshelf, handed it to him and said, "This book is my favorite. It has accompanied me through many difficult nights. I hope you will like it too, as a commemoration of your heroic behavior today." Her eyes were full of sincerity and expectation.

Liu Pingan took the book. The cover was a little worn, but he could feel that it carried not only the words, but also Lin Wanqing's thoughts and gratitude. He thanked her softly, and a warm current surged in his heart. He seemed to see the story and emotions behind the book, and also seemed to see Lin Wanqing's tenacious heart that loved life.

After leaving the bookstore, Liu Pingan once again looked at the warm light and decided in his heart: If he has the chance in the future, he must come to see this place full of books and warmth more often. Perhaps he can do something for this community, just like Superman protects his city, using his own power to silently protect this rare tranquility and beauty. And this protection is not only for Lin Wanqing and the bookstore, but also for justice and kindness.