The peach tree cast a shadow beside Ahe's new toy stall. Tao rose on her toes to look. Grandpa Song came into the courtyard beside her, taking his time.

A round wooden shield rested on a stand. Next to it lay a toy spear with a soft red tip, rather like a little ripe fruit. Each toy had its own support.

Ahe smoothed his tunic. He wanted everyone to like his stall. As he prepared his introduction, his words grew bigger and grander than the toys themselves.