Morning light filtered through the windows of Murong Trading House as the bustling sounds of merchants and workers filled the air. Inside the main hall, Murong De sat at the head of a long table, while Zhao Ming, Gao Ren, and a few trusted attendants stood nearby.


    A knock at the door announced the arrival of the academy’s representative. A man in scholarly robes stepped inside, his gaze sharp and observant. His refined demeanor and the jade ornament at his waist marked him as someone of status within the academy.


    Murong De stood and clasped his hands in greeting. “Master Wen, welcome to my humble trading house.”


    Master Wen returned the gesture. “Master Murong, I appreciate your prompt handling of this matter. The academy has been concerned about this shipment.” His eyes swept across the room before settling on the crates stacked neatly in one corner. “I trust the cargo remains intact?”


    Gao Ren stepped forward and gestured to his men. “We ensured its safety. The weapons and the special cargo are untouched.”


    Murong De nodded to one of his stewards, who presented a record book for inspection. “Here is a full account of the shipment’s journey. There was an attempted mutiny, but thanks to Zhao Ming and the efforts of our people, we secured the ship and protected its contents.”


    Master Wen’s brow furrowed. “Mutiny? Tell me more.”


    The traveling scholars, who had been waiting nearby, eagerly stepped forward to share their account. One of them, a younger man with ink-stained fingers, spoke first. “It was terrifying! The First Mate led the betrayal, and a hooded man tried to take control of the ship. If not for Zhao Ming’s quick actions, we would have been lost.”


    Another scholar added, “The storm that followed made things worse, but everyone fought hard to keep the ship afloat.”


    Master Wen listened intently, his expression unreadable. He then turned to Zhao Ming. “And you were the one who helped secure the ship?”


    Zhao Ming met his gaze and nodded. “I only did what was necessary.”


    Master Wen studied him for a moment before nodding. “The academy recognizes such efforts. While we cannot compensate everyone individually, we value those who prove themselves capable. Should you ever seek opportunities within the academy or require assistance, mention my name.”


    Gao Ren smirked. “And what about our payment?”


    Master Wen chuckled. “Naturally, we have prepared the appropriate amount.” He signaled to his attendants, who brought forward a heavy chest of silver. “As agreed, the academy honors its contracts.”


    The mercenaries murmured in approval as Gao Ren inspected the payment. “Seems everything is in order.” He then turned to Zhao Ming, clapping him on the shoulder. “Well, Brother Zhao, if you ever grow tired of city life, you know where to find me. We should drink together sometime.”


    Zhao Ming smirked. “I’ll keep that in mind.”


    With business nearly concluded, Master Wen moved toward the crates, carefully inspecting the weapons and special cargo. He and his assistants checked the seals, examined the goods, and verified the inventory against their records.


    After a thorough inspection, Master Wen gave a satisfied nod. “Everything is accounted for. The shipment is intact.” He turned to his attendants. “Prepare for departure. We leave for the academy immediately.”


    The traveling scholars, eager to return to their studies, gathered their belongings. Under the supervision of the academy representatives, workers loaded the weapons and cargo onto transport carts, ensuring everything was properly secured.


    Master Wen turned back to Murong De. “On behalf of the academy, we appreciate your handling of this matter. This shipment was of great importance.”


    Murong De clasped his hands. “It was our duty.”


    With that, the academy’s group departed, their carts rolling out of the trading house as they began their journey back.


    Meanwhile, Gao Ren and his men, now paid, made their final preparations to leave. Though their journey together had come to an end, they left with mutual respect and camaraderie.


    <hr>


    After Master Wen and the academy representatives departed, the Murong Trading House slowly returned to its usual rhythm. The commotion of unloading cargo and dealing with officials had settled, and now, Murong De turned his attention to Zhao Ming.


    Murong De led Zhao Ming inside the trading house, where they were greeted by a middle-aged man with a sharp gaze, neatly combed hair, and the calm demeanor of someone who had handled countless transactions. His blue robes were immaculately kept, and he exuded the aura of a seasoned merchant.


    “Zhao Ming, this is Shopkeeper Wu. He oversees most of our operations here in Beihai.” Murong De introduced.


    Shopkeeper Wu clasped his hands together in greeting. “I have heard of your contributions, Brother Zhao. To take charge in such a crisis and ensure the safety of our young lady and the cargo—impressive.”


    Zhao Ming returned the greeting. “I only did what I could. The real credit goes to Murong Xue and the disciples who fought bravely.”


    Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.


    Shopkeeper Wu nodded. “Still, decisive leadership in such situations is rare. Are you considering staying in Beihai? A talent like yours would be highly valuable in the business world.”


    Zhao Ming smiled. “I haven’t decided yet. I don’t have any foundation here, so I need to see what opportunities arise.”


    Murong De chuckled. “That’s why I wanted you to meet Shopkeeper Wu. He has been in Beihai for over two decades and knows this city better than most officials.”


    “Governor’s administration, local guilds, merchant alliances, and even certain underground forces—I make it a point to stay informed.” Shopkeeper Wu smirked. “If you need help navigating Beihai, you may find me useful.”


    Zhao Ming was intrigued. “That’s good to know. What’s the current situation in Beihai’s trading scene?”


    Shopkeeper Wu’s expression darkened slightly. “Tensions have been rising lately. The governor’s office has been tightening regulations, and certain merchant factions are trying to push smaller traders out. There have also been strange disruptions in supply routes—especially from the western territories.”


    Murong De nodded. “That’s part of why I want you to come with me to the governor’s meeting this afternoon. There are bigger things happening in Beihai, and if you’re considering making a place for yourself here, you should see it firsthand.”


    Just as Zhao Ming and Shopkeeper Wu were discussing the trading climate in Beihai, a familiar voice interrupted them.


    “Uncle, Shopkeeper Wu.”


    Murong Xue entered the hall, dressed in a fresh set of robes. Though her injuries had not fully healed, she moved with confidence, her gaze sharp as ever.


    Murong De looked at her with a mix of approval and concern. “Shouldn’t you be resting? You just recovered from serious injuries.”


    “I’m not that fragile, Uncle,” Murong Xue replied with a slight smile. “Besides, there are matters to take care of.” She turned to Shopkeeper Wu. “Have the calculations for the last shipment been finalized?”


    Shopkeeper Wu clasped his hands and nodded. “Yes, young miss. We have tallied the profits, and everything is in order. Our next shipment will be prepared soon.”


    “Good,” Murong Xue said before turning to Murong De. “Uncle, I will be leading my disciples back to Zhou County in a few days. We’ll need provisions and weapons for the journey.”


    Murong De stroked his beard. “That can be arranged. I don’t want you traveling with inadequate supplies, especially after what happened on the way here.”


    Murong Xue then turned back to Shopkeeper Wu. “How about the ship arrangement? Have you found a suitable one for our return?”


    Shopkeeper Wu nodded. “I have made inquiries. A merchant vessel under the Zhao Shipping Company is departing in three days and will pass through a safe route toward Zhou County. It will be heavily guarded, so there should be no risk of another mutiny or attack.”


    Murong Xue considered for a moment, then nodded. “That will do. Make the arrangements.”


    Zhao Ming, who had been quietly listening, smiled slightly. “It seems like you have everything planned.”


    Murong Xue smirked. “I have to. Traveling with a group of disciples is no easy task.”


    Murong De chuckled. “You’ve grown more responsible, Xue’er. But tell me, why is it that the first thing you ask about is Zhao Ming and not your dear uncle?”


    Murong Xue’s eyes widened slightly before she quickly composed herself. “Uncle, don’t be ridiculous.”


    Murong De laughed heartily. “It’s fine, it’s fine. Just remember, if you truly want something, you must be bold in claiming it.”


    Murong Xue coughed lightly and quickly changed the subject. “Shopkeeper Wu, please prepare a list of the supplies we’ll be taking.”


    Shopkeeper Wu bowed. “At once, young miss.”


    <hr>


    Just as the conversation wrapped up, lively voices echoed from the entrance.


    “Brother Zhao!”


    The Azure Dragon disciples returned from their sightseeing, carrying small cloth bags filled with snacks and trinkets. Their faces were full of excitement, looking refreshed after their first real break since the journey.


    “We explored the market! It’s huge, much bigger than Zhou County’s!” one disciple said enthusiastically.


    “I tried some seafood buns, and they were amazing!” another added.


    “There were also a few groups of sect disciples wandering around. They looked strong,” a third disciple said, looking at Zhao Ming with a grin. “Brother Zhao, maybe you should test them out?”


    Zhao Ming smirked. “Oh? You want me to start trouble in a city I just arrived in?”


    The disciples laughed, and one of the female disciples suddenly stepped closer to Zhao Ming, lowering her voice. “Brother Zhao… I saw a fine clothing and accessories shop in the market.”


    Zhao Ming raised an eyebrow. “And?”


    The female disciple smiled mischievously. “They have exquisite hairpins and embroidered robes. If you wanted to… you know, buy something for Senior Sister Murong, now would be a good time.”


    Zhao Ming glanced at Murong Xue, who was speaking to Shopkeeper Wu, unaware of their conversation. He chuckled. “I’ll think about it.”


    The female disciple giggled. “Don’t think too long. Senior Sister won’t wait forever.”


    <hr>


    Murong De clapped Zhao Ming on the shoulder. “Enough chatting. Finish your meal and rest for a bit. This afternoon, I will take you to meet Governor Kong.”


    Zhao Ming was intrigued. “What’s the meeting about?”


    Murong De’s expression grew more serious. “Beihai is changing. There has been a large influx of refugees coming from the south and western territories due to the instability in those regions. The governor is under pressure to regulate them—if left unchecked, they could bring trouble. But if managed well, they could contribute to the city’s growth.”


    Zhao Ming nodded. “So he wants to create jobs?”


    “Exactly. That’s why he’s gathering prominent merchants and guild leaders to discuss opportunities. Trade expansion, infrastructure projects, labor management—these things require careful planning.”


    Zhao Ming thought for a moment. “And you want me to observe?”


    Murong De smirked. “Not just observe. Listen, learn, and if you have anything insightful to say, don’t hesitate. Governor Kong values fresh perspectives.”


    Zhao Ming’s eyes gleamed with interest. “Sounds like an opportunity.”


    Murong De nodded. “Then let’s make the most of it.”


    As the conversation wrapped up, Murong De glanced outside, noticing the time. With a knowing smile, he turned toward the exit and called out, “Zhao Ming, it’s time to go.”


    Zhao Ming looked over at Murong Xue, who had been watching him quietly. Her fingers gently brushed over the bangle he had given her, her expression soft yet unreadable.


    She hesitated before speaking, her voice carrying warmth. “Zhao Ming, you’re already getting involved in Beihai’s affairs?”


    He chuckled. “Just tagging along to see how things work.”


    Murong Xue nodded, her lips pressing into a small smile. “Then… I’ll see you later?”


    He gave her a reassuring look. “Of course.”


    Murong De’s voice came again from the doorway, this time with a bit more urgency. “Come on, we shouldn’t keep the governor waiting.”


    Zhao Ming exhaled and gave Murong Xue one last glance before turning toward the exit. Stepping out of the trading house, he followed Murong De to the waiting carriage. The streets of Beihai bustled with morning activity, merchants hawking their wares and laborers unloading goods.


    Soon, the imposing structure of the governor’s office came into view.


    Another step forward in this unfamiliar yet promising city.