Xiqiu quickened her pace to catch up with Tong Xihua, but after only a few steps, she noticed fine beads of sweat on Tong Xihua's forehead, and there was a faint smell of blood emanating from her. No wonder Lady was so worried, who would have thought that even after so long, Tong Xihua hadn't fully recovered after childbirth!
As they exited the courtyard, Tong Xihua stopped to catch her breath, and Xiqiu halted behind her. Tong Xihua suddenly turned her head to look at Xiqiu and, smiling, said, "Nanny Lin is tired, Sixth Sister, come and support me." Xiqiu raised her eyebrows slightly, then nodded and stepped forward to support Tong Xihua.
"Am I heavy? Are you tired, Sixth Sister?" After a few steps, Tong Xihua spoke with a smile, though her voice was indistinct as if she was using all her strength. Xiqiu replied with a smile, "I'm strong; sister need not worry."
