With Wu Yue's guidance, the two of them then dug out the steps leading down and built up the surrounding mud walls to the same height.
Finally, they started on the roof. The base of the A-frame structure was a sturdy framework of logs. They then covered it with layers of large leaves, dry grass, and mud mixed with straw. The very top layer was a thick, woven straw thatch, secured in place with more logs.
In just one afternoon, Wu Yue's house was finished. Looking at the semi-subterranean dwelling, she couldn't help but sigh. 'Finally, a home of my own.'
Once the house was built, a cheerful Wu Yue gave her friends a tour of her new "little nest." Though she called it that, it was much larger and taller than Qinghua's thatched hut—spacious and beautiful.
The stairwell leading down into the house was wide, keeping the interior from feeling dark. The moment Qinghua and Qingcao stepped inside, they fell in love with it.
