《Scholar’s Journey in Ancient China》 Chapter 1: Awakening in a Strange Land Zhao Ming groaned as he opened his eyes, his head pounding like a war drum. The faint scent of aged wood, ink, and herbal medicine filled his nostrils. A wooden ceiling loomed above him, unfamiliar yet oddly calming. ¡°Where¡­ am I?¡± he muttered. He pushed himself up, feeling the soft yet rough fabric of his robes¡ªa blue scholar¡¯s attire, stitched with faint patterns of clouds. His hands trembled slightly as he inspected them. Slender, youthful, unfamiliar. His heart raced. This wasn¡¯t his body. Just as panic threatened to rise, a sudden sound echoed in his mind.
Ding! [Life Choice System Activated.] [Welcome, Zhao Ming.]
A translucent golden text box appeared in the air before him.
[Your consciousness has merged with this body. Past memories are erased to ensure a fresh start.] [Current Location: An inn outside Zhou County, 184 AD, Eastern Han Dynasty.]
Zhao Ming froze. 184 AD? That was the era of Romance of the Three Kingdoms¡ªa time of legendary heroes, ruthless warlords, and ceaseless chaos.
[Your identity: Zhao Ming, a 16-year-old scholar traveling to Zhou County.]
Zhao Ming''s eye twitched. "Wait. What happened to me before this? Who was I before?"
[Irrelevant. Your past no longer matters. Only the choices you make from now on will shape your fate.]If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.
Zhao Ming rubbed his temples. ¡°Great. I¡¯m stuck in ancient China with no memories.¡±
[Incorrect. You are given an opportunity. How you use it is up to you. Your past no longer matters¡ªonly the choices you make from now on will shape your fate.] [However, you will have bits of information about the current era and its story. This knowledge is limited and incomplete but may help you navigate key historical events.]
Something about that statement sent a chill down his spine. An opportunity? He took a deep breath. ¡°Fine. Show me my stats.¡±
[Displaying Status:] Name: Zhao Ming Age: 16 Identity: Scholar (No official rank) Reputation: 0 Martial Arts: None Cultivation: None Skills: Basic Calligraphy, Poetry (Beginner), Classical Chinese Studies
Zhao Ming stared at the screen. ¡°¡­I¡¯m weak as hell.¡±
[Correct. You have no martial prowess, no cultivation, and no reputation. In this era, you are insignificant.]
He sighed. ¡°Then how do I get stronger?¡±
[Strength in this world is tied to Reputation. The higher your reputation, the more opportunities you unlock¡ªincluding martial arts, cultivation techniques, and political influence.]
¡°Reputation?¡± Zhao Ming frowned. ¡°You mean, like fame?¡±
[Correct. Reputation can be earned through achievements¡ªwhether through politics, war, or legendary deeds. The world watches, and history remembers.] [However, reputation is not bound by morality. You can be a revered scholar, a cunning official, a feared warlord, or a ruthless tyrant. The world will judge your choices accordingly.]
Zhao Ming''s lips curled into a small smile. So, he could choose between righteousness and villainy? ¡°Interesting¡­ I like options.¡±
[Your first step is survival. Your teacher, Master Shen, awaits you in Zhou County. He has connections to the Imperial Court and will guide your path. Head there immediately.]
¡°Zhou County¡­¡± Zhao Ming muttered. If he recalled correctly, that was where Liu Bei, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei were forming their legendary brotherhood. A grin spread across his face. Politics, war, cultivation, and a system that rewards both good and evil? This world had endless possibilities. He adjusted his robes. ¡°Alright then. Let¡¯s see what this world has to offer.¡± Chapter 2: Journey to Zhou County Zhao Ming sat in his small inn room, staring at the floating translucent screen before him.
[System Notification] Main Task: Find a way to travel to Zhou County and meet your teacher. Reward: Reputation +10, Gold +5 taels, Stats Unlock. Note: The System will not always provide guidance. Solve your own problems and shape your destiny.
He exhaled sharply. "So, I have to find my own way... makes sense." He stretched, gathering his simple belongings before heading downstairs. After settling his stay with the innkeeper, Zhao Ming stepped into the bustling streets, his stomach growling. He wandered to a nearby food stall, the aroma of freshly baked flatbread mixed with scallions making his mouth water. "One flatbread, please," Zhao Ming requested, handing over a few coins. As he ate, he overheard a heated discussion from a group of villagers and travelers seated nearby. "The Yellow Turbans are on the move again." "Government¡¯s recruiting militias to fight them. Even ordinary folks are being conscripted." "Not just that! Bandits roam the roads freely now. It''s dangerous for any lone traveler." Zhao Ming frowned. Traveling alone might not be a good idea. After finishing his meal, he approached the vendor. "Excuse me, where can I find a carriage to Zhou County?" The vendor scratched his head. "No carriages run there now, lad. Too risky. But you might try the Murong Trading House (ĽÈÝÉÌÐÐ - M¨´r¨®ng Sh¨¡ngh¨¢ng). Their caravans still travel the route."Stolen content alert: this content belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences. Zhao Ming thanked him and followed the directions to the trading house. Upon arrival, he found a bustling scene¡ªworkers loading goods onto horse-drawn carriages. Spotting a nearby porter, he approached. "Excuse me, is this caravan heading to Zhou County?" The porter grunted, nodding toward a nearby building. "Aye, but you''ll have to ask the caravan leader yourself." Zhao Ming walked up to the entrance, where a stern-faced guard stopped him. "What do you want?" "I wish to join the caravan to Zhou County." The guard smirked. "Oh? And why should we take you? A little... gesture of appreciation might help your case." Zhao Ming sighed. So, he wants a bribe? Before he could respond, a deep voice cut through. "What¡¯s going on here?" A burly, middle-aged man with sharp eyes and a commanding presence stepped forward. The guard stiffened. "Leader Murong!" The guard saluted quickly. Murong De crossed his arms. "Trying to make things difficult for travelers again? Enough of this nonsense. Your training doubles for the next week." The guard paled. "Y-Yes, sir!" Murong De turned to Zhao Ming. "I am Murong De, leader of this caravan. Who are you?" Zhao Ming clasped his hands respectfully. "My name is Zhao Ming. I need to reach Zhou County to meet my teacher. I was hoping to travel with your caravan." Murong De studied him for a moment before nodding. "Very well. We depart in the Shenshi (Éêʱ, 3-5 PM). You may wait in the guest room." Zhao Ming thanked him and spent the next few hours resting. When the time came, the caravan gathered. As Zhao Ming stepped outside, he noticed a group of young men and women in purple uniforms, swords at their waists. Curious, he turned to Murong De to ask about them, but before he could, a clear voice called out. "Uncle." Zhao Ming turned to see a young woman in a refined purple outfit approaching. She was graceful yet carried herself with confidence. Murong De smiled. "Ah, Zhao Ming, meet my niece, Murong Xue." Murong Xue glanced at him with mild curiosity. "A scholar? Why is he traveling with us?" "He''s heading to Zhou County," Murong De replied. "We¡¯re bringing him along." She nodded. "Then, are we ready to go?" Murong De checked with his men before giving the order. "Everything is set. Zhao Ming, you¡¯ll ride in the second carriage." As he settled inside, the caravan set off toward Zhou County, beginning Zhao Ming''s first real step in this journey. Chapter 3: Journey to Zhou County (2) Zhao Ming sat inside the carriage near the coach, listening to the rhythmic creak of wooden wheels against the dirt road. The caravan was well-guarded¡ªhired mercenaries rode alongside them, their hands never far from their weapons. Among them was a group of martial artists, easily identified by their matching purple robes and swords strapped to their waists. The coach, a middle-aged man with sunburned skin and sharp eyes, struck up a conversation. "Haven''t seen you around before, scholar. Heading to Zhou County for the exams?" Zhao Ming gave a vague nod. "Something like that. What about you? How¡¯s trade these days?" The man let out a sigh. "Not great. Grain prices keep rising. The Yellow Turbans are stirring trouble, and the local warlords are hoarding supplies. War is coming, no doubt about it. Ordinary folks are suffering the most¡ªfood is getting scarce." Zhao Ming absorbed the information. He had heard of the Yellow Turban Rebellion, but hearing about it firsthand made it feel much more real. The coach lowered his voice and nodded toward the leading carriages. "See those young ones in purple? They¡¯re from the Azure Cloud Sword Sect. The sect is near Zhou County, and their disciples take on tasks like guarding caravans." Zhao Ming narrowed his eyes. The world was not just about officials and warlords¡ªsects, martial arts, and the jianghu also played a role in shaping history. If he wanted to survive, he needed to understand it all.
After nearly four hours of travel, Murong De called for a stop. The caravan pulled off the road, setting up camp in a small clearing. Some men busied themselves gathering firewood, while others tended to the horses or prepared dinner. The aroma of cooked rice and roasted meat soon filled the air. Zhao Ming was invited to dine with Murong De, Murong Xue, and the sect disciples. There were four disciples in total¡ªMurong Xue, a composed senior sister, a broad-shouldered senior brother, and a hot-blooded junior brother named Chen. As they ate, Chen turned to Zhao Ming with a smirk. "So, scholar, what are you doing traveling to Zhou County?"This story originates from Royal Road. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. Zhao Ming took a sip of his tea before answering. "I am to meet my teacher there. He has recommended me for an official position." Chen snorted. "Another scholar trying to squeeze into the imperial courts." Before Zhao Ming could reply, Senior Sister Liu added thoughtfully, "Politics and governance are important, but you must understand that martial arts hold great influence over war and power struggles as well." Zhao Ming nodded. "I agree. Martial arts shape the battlefield, but war is not fought by generals and soldiers alone. The common people determine the rise and fall of empires. The Yellow Turban Rebellion did not start because of a great warrior, but because commoners were starving, oppressed, and had no hope." Murong Xue, who had been quietly listening, lowered her chopsticks, deep in thought. Chen scoffed. "And what does a scholar like you know about war? Even if you become an official, can you really solve these problems?" Zhao Ming chuckled lightly. "Who knows? Perhaps I will become a wise minister¡­ or maybe a corrupt one." Chen¡¯s expression darkened, and he opened his mouth to retort, but before he could, Senior Brother Fang cut in, his voice calm but firm. "Enough, Chen. Every man walks his own path. It is not for us to judge." Chen clicked his tongue but said nothing more. Dinner continued in relative peace, with Zhao Ming occasionally glancing at Murong Xue, who seemed unusually pensive.
Later that night, as Zhao Ming took a walk around the camp, he noticed Murong Xue standing near the main campfire, gazing into the flickering flames. He approached with a polite nod. "Miss Murong, is something troubling you?" Murong Xue turned to him, her eyes sharp. ¡°What do you think of the Yellow Turbans and the state of the common people?¡± Zhao Ming took a moment before replying. ¡°The problem is simple, yet complicated. It all stems from the low status of commoners. Most people only need the basics to live happily¡ªfood, clothing, shelter. But when the government is corrupt, taxes are high, and officials abuse their power, those basic needs become luxuries.¡± Murong Xue frowned. ¡°But commoners can report corrupt officials to a magistrate. A good official would protect them.¡± Zhao Ming chuckled, though there was no humor in his voice. ¡°Trust in the government is already broken. When the system fails, people turn to whatever hope they can find¡ªeven if it is false. The Yellow Turbans are not just rebels; they are desperate people grasping at a promise, even if it''s a lie. To them, false hope is better than dying in despair.¡± Murong Xue remained silent, lost in thought. The firelight flickered in her eyes, casting long shadows across her face. For the first time, Zhao Ming felt that she was truly considering his words. Sensing that she needed time to reflect, Zhao Ming took a step back and offered a slight bow. "It¡¯s been a long day. I shall take my leave and rest for the night. Good evening, Miss Murong." Murong Xue gave a small nod but said nothing as Zhao Ming turned away. After a brief pause, she let out a quiet sigh and made her way back to Murong De¡¯s tent to rest. Chapter 4: The Bandit Ambush The first rays of dawn stretched across the sky as Zhao Ming stirred awake. The camp was already alive with movement¡ªmercenaries sharpening their blades, disciples of the Azure Cloud Sword Sect preparing their weapons, and servants securing supplies onto the carriages. At the center of it all stood Murong De, issuing final instructions. ¡°Double-check the goods. Make sure the grain is well-secured,¡± he ordered. His deep voice carried authority, and the hired guards moved swiftly to obey. Nearby, Murong Xue was silently inspecting her sword, her expression unreadable. Zhao Ming considered asking if something was on her mind but ultimately chose to say nothing. Before long, the caravan was on the road once more.
As the caravan traveled along the dirt path, discussions naturally drifted toward the state of the empire. ¡°The Yellow Turban Rebellion is spiraling out of control,¡± Senior Brother Fang remarked, gripping the reins of his horse. ¡°With the imperial army struggling to suppress them, more and more bandit groups have emerged, preying on travelers and villages.¡± ¡°Hmph,¡± Chen scoffed, tapping the hilt of his sword. ¡°If we run into bandits, I¡¯ll send them running with their tails between their legs.¡± Senior Sister Liu shook her head. ¡°Don¡¯t jinx it. Overconfidence leads to carelessness.¡± Chen rolled his eyes, but before he could respond¡ª Whoosh! An arrow whizzed through the air and struck a wooden crate at the front of the caravan. Shouts erupted as the mercenaries drew their weapons. More arrows rained down from the dense tree line, forcing the guards to take cover. Then, a group of men emerged from the shadows, blocking the road. At their front stood a rugged man with a long scar down his cheek, wearing ragged armor. A yellow cloth was tied around his arm, marking his allegiance. ¡°I am Liao Hua,¡± the man declared. ¡°We fight for the people, against tyranny! Leave your grain, and we will let you go.¡± Murong De remained calm, his gaze steady. ¡°That grain is paid for with honest coin. If you take it, how are the farmers supposed to eat?¡± Liao Hua¡¯s eyes darkened. ¡°The farmers are already starving. What difference does it make?¡± Murong De sighed. ¡°Then there is nothing more to discuss.¡± With a flick of his hand, Murong Xue and the sect disciples stepped forward, weapons drawn. ¡°Defend the caravan!¡± Fang ordered.A case of literary theft: this tale is not rightfully on Amazon; if you see it, report the violation.
The bandits charged, and the disciples met them head-on. Murong Xue¡¯s blade danced through the air, cutting down her opponents with practiced precision. Fang moved like a raging storm, overwhelming any bandit who stood in his way. Liu fought with finesse, deflecting attacks and striking with calculated precision. Chen, however, was reckless¡ªswinging his sword wildly, relying more on aggression than technique. Zhao Ming stayed back, observing the battle. Unlike the disciplined swordplay of the sect disciples, the bandits fought with desperation. They weren¡¯t mere criminals; they were starving men forced into violence. Then, a sudden chime echoed in his mind.
[Emergency Quest Triggered] Choose your path: Rewards will be granted based on your decision.
Zhao Ming barely hesitated. He selected the first option.
[Quest Accepted: Aid the Caravan] Skill unlocked: Insight (Basic), Allows the user to see basic stats of individuals (Name, Affiliation, Strength).
A new awareness filled his mind. He glanced around, and faint glowing markers appeared above each person¡¯s head: Armed with this knowledge, Zhao Ming formulated a plan. He turned to Fang. ¡°Senior Brother Fang, take out the weaker ones first. Miss Murong and Senior Sister Liu, hold your ground and keep them from overwhelming us.¡± Fang gave him a sharp look but nodded. ¡°Understood.¡± Following the strategy, Fang led an aggressive push, quickly cutting down weaker opponents. Murong Xue and Liu held their positions, preventing the stronger bandits from breaking through. Liao Hua, realizing the battle was turning against them, gritted his teeth and shouted, ¡°Fall back!¡± The surviving bandits retreated into the forest. But one figure didn¡¯t stop. Chen, still hot-blooded and reckless, ignored Murong De¡¯s warning and pursued the fleeing enemy. A sudden twang echoed through the trees. Chen¡¯s body jerked as an arrow struck his shoulder. His face twisted in pain. Murong Xue¡¯s eyes widened. ¡°Chen!¡± He stumbled, falling to one knee. The arrow¡¯s shaft trembled slightly, its tip coated in a faint green substance.
The group gathered around as a doctor examined the wound. His expression turned grim. ¡°The poison is strong. Without treatment, he may not last the night.¡± Senior Brother Fang face darkened. ¡°How far to Zhou County?¡± ¡°Too far,¡± Murong De muttered. Zhao Ming, still processing the quest completion notification, suddenly felt a small object materialize in his hand.
[Antidote Pill Received]
He hesitated, then stepped forward and handed the small jade-colored pill to the doctor. ¡°Will this help?¡± The doctor examined it closely. His brows furrowed in thought before he nodded. ¡°This is a common folk antidote. It should counter some poisons, but I cannot guarantee its strength.¡± Liu crossed her arms. ¡°And if it¡¯s not strong enough?¡± Murong Xue clenched her fists. ¡°There is no other option.¡± With a final glance at the unconscious Chen, the doctor took the pill and carefully fed it to him. Minutes passed in tense silence. Then, Chen¡¯s breathing steadied. His complexion, once deathly pale, regained some color. ¡°He¡¯s stable,¡± the doctor confirmed. ¡°The poison won¡¯t spread further.¡± Murong Xue exhaled in relief. ¡°Thank you, Zhao Ming.¡± Fang and Liu gave him respectful nods, their earlier skepticism replaced with gratitude. Murong De glanced at him with newfound interest. ¡°It seems there¡¯s more to you than meets the eye, scholar.¡± Zhao Ming merely smiled. ¡°Just luck, I suppose.¡± With Chen stabilized, the caravan resumed its journey toward Zhou County. The road ahead was still uncertain, but for now, they had survived. Chapter 5: Arrival in Zhou County and Meeting with Teacher The journey to Zhou County had been long and exhausting, but as the caravan passed through the city gates, Zhao Ming couldn¡¯t help but feel a mix of relief and curiosity. Zhou County was a city brimming with life, yet beneath its bustling markets and lively chatter, an air of tension lingered. The Yellow Turban Rebellion had left its mark¡ªmilitary patrols were more frequent, buildings bore scars of recent battles, and refugees huddled in alleys, whispering of the chaos beyond the walls. Murong De rode ahead, his expression calm as he approached the city guards. Producing a token marked with the insignia of the Murong family, he spoke in a measured tone. ¡°We are from the Murong family. I request entry for our caravan.¡± The guards exchanged glances before nodding. ¡°Welcome back, Master Murong. Have you encountered any rebel activity on the road?¡± Murong De nodded. ¡°A bandit group was waiting in ambush, but they were dealt with. They may have ties to the rebels.¡± The guards stiffened at the news but waved them through. As they proceeded, Zhao Ming observed the city¡¯s streets¡ªshops displaying silks, blacksmiths hammering weapons, and food stalls offering skewers of roasted meat. Yet, there was an undercurrent of unease. War was approaching, and everyone knew it.
Once inside the city, Murong De turned to Zhao Ming. ¡°Where do you plan to stay?¡± Zhao Ming hesitated. ¡°I don¡¯t have a place yet. I came here to find my teacher, but I don¡¯t know his whereabouts.¡± Murong Xue tilted her head. ¡°Who is your teacher?¡± ¡°Lu Zheng,¡± Zhao Ming answered without much thought. Silence. Murong De and Murong Xue both stared at him, their expressions shifting from surprise to visible frustration. Zhao Ming frowned. ¡°Why do you both look like that?¡± Murong Xue groaned, rubbing her temples. ¡°That shameless old man is at our estate.¡± Zhao Ming blinked. ¡°Oh. That makes things easier.¡± Murong De sighed. ¡°Easier? He¡¯s done nothing but drink all day. He avoids responsibilities like the plague.¡± Zhao Ming felt an oncoming headache. His teacher, whom he hadn¡¯t seen in years, had become a drunkard? He exhaled sharply and massaged his forehead. ¡°Wonderful.¡±
At the Murong family estate, the servants rushed to prepare rooms for their guests. Chen was immediately taken to a physician to ensure all traces of poison were removed. Meanwhile, Murong De arranged proper lodging for Fang and Liu, ensuring the warriors had a place to rest.Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit. Murong Xue led Zhao Ming through the corridors. ¡°Brace yourself,¡± she muttered. In the central courtyard, two men sat at a wooden table, wine jugs scattered between them. One was a middle-aged man with a commanding presence¡ªMurong Jin, head of the Murong family. The other, wearing disheveled robes, was none other than Lu Zheng. ¡°Father,¡± Murong Xue greeted, ¡°we have a guest.¡± Murong Jin turned his sharp gaze toward Zhao Ming. ¡°And who is this scholar?¡± Zhao Ming stepped forward and bowed. ¡°Zhao Ming greets Lord Murong. I have come to meet my teacher.¡± He turned to Lu Zheng, whose face brightened upon recognizing him. ¡°Hah! My dear disciple, you¡¯ve finally come.¡± Lu Zheng stretched lazily and smirked. ¡°Good timing! Now I can finally relax and push all my work onto you.¡± Zhao Ming¡¯s eye twitched. His hands clenched into fists as he resisted the urge to throw something at the old man. Murong Jin sighed. ¡°I sympathize with you, young man.¡± Murong Xue nodded. ¡°Same.¡± Just then, a familiar notification appeared before Zhao Ming¡¯s eyes. [System Update]
Needing a break from his ¡®beloved¡¯ teacher, Zhao Ming decided to explore the market later that afternoon. The streets were lively, with merchants calling out prices and street performers gathering crowds. As he strolled, he overheard various rumors: Zhao Ming ignored the braggart and continued walking¡ªuntil something unusual caught his eye. Amidst the crowd, a towering man with an imposing presence stood out. His long beard and piercing eyes radiated an aura of strength. Curious, Zhao Ming activated [Insight Lv.1]. [Target Identified] Zhao Ming¡¯s heart skipped a beat. Guan Yu?! Before he could react, the man approached him. ¡°Young scholar, do you know where I can find an inn?¡± Zhao Ming quickly composed himself and pointed to the inn where the loud braggart had been boasting. ¡°That one should do.¡± Guan Yu nodded in gratitude. ¡°Many thanks.¡±
That evening, over dinner, the Murong family discussed current affairs. The table was filled with rich food and animated conversation. At one point, Murong Xue casually mentioned Zhao Ming¡¯s assistance in identifying weak bandit groups during their journey. Murong Jin, intrigued, set down his cup. ¡°You seem to have a good head on your shoulders. Tell me, Zhao Ming, what do you plan to do next?¡± Zhao Ming considered his words carefully. ¡°I will follow my teacher¡¯s guidance.¡± Lu Zheng grinned mischievously. ¡°Excellent! In that case, here¡¯s your new task.¡± He tossed a sealed letter onto the table. ¡°Take this recommendation letter and report to Anxi Prefecture.¡± Zhao Ming picked up the letter, frowning. ¡°What for?¡± Lu Zheng lazily waved his hand. ¡°You¡¯re now a Zhou Li (ÖÝÀô).¡± Zhao Ming¡¯s eye twitched again. ¡°A government official?!¡± Lu Zheng smirked. ¡°It¡¯s good for your experience.¡± Zhao Ming wanted to argue, but Murong Jin simply laughed. ¡°Consider it an opportunity, young man.¡± Zhao Ming sighed in resignation. His journey had just taken another unexpected turn. Chapter 6: Preparation and Encounters As the evening settled over the Murong estate, Zhao Ming sat across from Lu Zheng, his mind filled with questions about his new role as a Zhou Li (ÖÝÀô). The flickering candlelight cast long shadows on the walls as Lu Zheng took a sip of his tea before speaking. "A Zhou Li assists the provincial governor in administration, tax collection, and law enforcement," Lu Zheng explained. "It''s a position of influence, but also one fraught with danger. The political landscape in Anxi Prefecture is anything but stable." Murong Jin, seated nearby, nodded. "It is a respectable post for a young scholar, but be mindful¡ªmany will watch you, and not all with goodwill." Zhao Ming absorbed their words. This was more than an opportunity¡ªit was a stepping stone. If he played his cards right, he could rise far beyond the status of a mere clerk.
The next morning, Murong Xue offered to accompany Zhao Ming to the Murong family¡¯s blacksmith. "At the very least, you should have a blade for self-defense," she said. The forge was alive with the sound of hammering metal and the roar of fire. Sparks danced in the air as blacksmiths shaped glowing steel. The lead blacksmith, an older man with a grizzled beard, looked up from his work and grinned. "Ah, Xue''er, finally bringing a husband home?" he teased. Murong Xue crossed her arms, her expression unamused. "We''re here for a weapon, not your nonsense." The old man chuckled and turned his keen gaze on Zhao Ming. "A scholar, huh? Well, let¡¯s get you something practical." He selected a sturdy yet lightweight knife and handed it over. "Keep it sharp. You never know when you''ll need it." Murong Xue studied Zhao Ming before saying, "Since you now have a blade, I¡¯ll teach you the basics. It wouldn¡¯t do for you to injure yourself by accident." The blacksmith laughed again. "Teaching him already? You should just marry him instead of worrying so much." Murong Xue huffed and turned away. "Forget it, I¡¯m not talking anymore." Zhao Ming smirked as he followed her out.If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.
Later, Zhao Ming wandered through the bustling marketplace, gathering supplies and listening to the chatter of the townspeople. Stopping at a small inn, he ordered lunch and struck up a casual conversation with one of the servants. "Anything new happening in town?" he asked, sipping his tea. The servant shrugged. "Same as always. The rebels stir trouble, but at least the governor and the Murong family keep things in check." As Zhao Ming finished his meal, a tall man with piercing eyes and a dignified presence approached. "Is this seat taken?" he asked. Zhao Ming gestured for him to sit, recognizing the figure as Guan Yu. Their conversation quickly turned to the state of the region. Moments later, two more men entered the inn¡ªLiu Bei and Zhang Fei. Guan Yu introduced them as his sworn brothers, and Zhao Ming quickly understood that he was in the presence of future warriors. "We are preparing to join the Han Volunteer Forces," Liu Bei explained. "The land grows ever more chaotic. We must act." Guan Yu then leaned in slightly. "I saw you leaving the Murong estate earlier. The Murong family is well-connected. We need weapons. Do you think you could introduce us?" Zhao Ming considered the request before nodding. "I can try. Follow me." As they prepared to leave, Guan Yu clasped Zhao Ming''s shoulder, his voice sincere. "You missed the oath ceremony of future heroes." Zhang Fei laughed. "If you had been there, we would¡¯ve forced you to swear alongside us!" Liu Bei smiled. "Perhaps fate has its own path for each of us." Guan Yu nodded. Zhao Ming smiled.
At the Murong estate, Murong Jin welcomed them upon hearing their intentions. "It is rare to see young men with such resolve in these troubled times. If you are truly set on this path, then I see no reason not to assist." A small dinner was arranged in their honor. During the meal, Murong Xue glanced at Zhao Ming. "You seem to have a knack for meeting people with grand ambitions." Zhao Ming chuckled. "Just coincidence, I suppose." Murong Xue smirked. "Even coincidences can shape history. Even luck is a skill," she replied with a teasing smile. Zhao Ming grinned. "Including having a shameless teacher?" Lu Zheng, mid-sip of his wine, nearly choked. Murong Xue giggled, while Murong Jin shook his head in amusement.
After dinner, Zhao Ming was visited by Fang, Liu, and Chen. They came to thank him for the medicine he had given Chen, which had greatly aided his recovery. "We owe you one," Fang said sincerely. "If you ever need anything, seek us out." Liu added, "Our sect holds knowledge that even scholars may find useful. If you wish, we can introduce you to its teachings." Zhao Ming¡¯s interest was piqued. "You mean cultivation techniques?" Chen, who had been quiet until now, suddenly grinned. "You should visit us one day. Our sect¡¯s cultivation methods are unmatched. We could teach you a thing or two." Liu then smiled. "Also, if you ever visit, I¡¯ll introduce you to my younger sister." Zhao Ming raised an eyebrow. "Younger sister, huh?" Liu laughed. "Don¡¯t get any ideas." They talked for a while longer before eventually retiring for the night. As Zhao Ming lay in bed, he reflected on the day''s events. His journey was just beginning, but the pieces were falling into place. Chapter 7: New Skills Zhao Ming woke up to the warm glow of morning sunlight filtering through the wooden lattice windows. The faint aroma of rice porridge and side dishes reminded him that breakfast was ready. He sat down to eat, savoring the simple yet fulfilling meal. Just as he finished, Murong Xue appeared at his door, a mischievous glint in her eyes. Without warning, she grabbed his wrist and pulled him outside. "Come on, time for saber practice!" she declared. Zhao sighed but followed along. They moved to the courtyard, where Murong Xue demonstrated several fluid saber movements, expecting him to follow. He did his best to mirror her, feeling the weight of the weapon in his grip. Before long, Guan Yu and Zhang Fei arrived, eager for their morning sparring session. The two brothers challenged each other first, their weapons clashing with raw intensity. Zhao watched, taking mental notes on their techniques. Liu Bei joined them later, arriving with a calm demeanor after a morning discussion with his teacher. Once everyone had finished training, Guan Yu turned to Zhao. "Brother Zhao, do you want to come with us to the blacksmith?" he asked. Before Zhao could decline, a system notification flashed in his vision:
[Forced Quest Activated: Visit the Blacksmith and Provide Insight. Unlock: Metallurgy Skill and Weapon Design]
With no choice but to accept, Zhao nodded. Murong Xue, seeing that he was occupied, excused herself to meet her sect friends.
The group arrived at the blacksmith¡¯s workshop, where an old, burly man greeted them. His sharp eyes scanned the group before settling on Zhao. With a knowing smirk, he teased, "Ah, you didn¡¯t bring the young miss with you today?" Zhao shook his head. "Spare me from unnecessary trouble, senior." Chuckling, the old man turned his attention to the brothers. "What brings you here? Looking for weapons?" The three hesitated, uncertain about what they wanted. The old man gestured to the displayed weapons. "Take your time and see what suits you." As they browsed, Zhao struck up a conversation with the old man. "What metals do you typically use for forging?" "Mostly iron and bronze," the old man replied. "They are reliable and readily available." Zhao¡¯s eyes gleamed with interest. "Have you ever considered using high-carbon steel? It can make weapons sharper and more durable."The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon. The old man stroked his beard. "Interesting... Tell me more." Zhao quickly explained the forging process, providing a brief outline of the steps required to produce high-carbon steel. The old man nodded in approval. "We can try that." Meanwhile, the brothers had made their choices. Guan Yu wanted a spear, Zhang Fei preferred a polearm with a snake-like curve, and Liu Bei requested a double-edged sword with engraved details. Zhao took a brush and paper, sketching designs for each weapon. The old man examined them and made minor adjustments before agreeing to forge them. As they prepared to leave, Zhao received a system notification:
[Quest Completed: Weapon Crafting Consultation. Reward: Enhanced Knife ¨C Indestructible, Sharp with Bleeding Effect.]
Later, Zhao made his way to the Murong Merchant Guild to buy supplies for his journey to Anxi. There, he met Murong De, who was preparing for his own trip to Linhuai by ship. "It would be wise for you to travel with a caravan," Murong De advised. "A group is heading to Anxi in a few days. You should join them." Zhao agreed, knowing that traveling alone would be dangerous. That evening, his teacher summoned him for a discussion. "You must be cautious in Anxi. There are many forces at play." Their conversation was interrupted by a servant, who announced that Murong Jin wished to speak with Zhao. His teacher gave him permission to go. Murong Jin welcomed Zhao with a composed expression. "I want to give you some advice. Be careful in political matters, and do not trust easily." Zhao nodded. "I will keep that in mind." Jin then asked, "Would you consider joining the Murong family? We could provide you with resources and influence." Zhao smiled. "I wish to see the world first." Murong Jin chuckled. "That is the spirit of youth. Go, then, and make the most of your journey."
As Zhao walked back through the estate, he passed by the Moonlit Melody Pavilion. Soft music filled the air, drawing him closer. Peeking inside, he saw Murong Xue playing the guqin while Senior Sister Liu played the flute. The harmony between their instruments created a serene atmosphere. They noticed him and gestured for him to join them. "Sit with us for a while," Xue said with a smile. "Where are Fang and Chen?" Zhao asked. "They have no interest in music," Senior Sister Liu replied. "They are busy with martial training." After chatting for a while, they played another song. Zhao was captivated by the melody and asked, "What is this piece called?" "It has no name," Xue replied. "Perhaps you can give it one." Zhao thought for a moment. "How about ''Moonlit Reunion''?" Xue and Senior Sister Liu exchanged glances and nodded approvingly. "Since you have enjoyed our performance, you must pay with a poem," Senior Sister Liu teased. Accepting the challenge, Zhao composed a short verse: Beneath the silver moon so bright, A melody drifts through the night. Echoes of souls, both near and far, Bound by fate where moonbeams are. His poetic words left them both impressed.
As the night deepened, Zhao wandered the estate, lost in thought. The journey ahead was uncertain, yet exhilarating. A system notification appeared:
[New Mission Unlocked: Journey to Anxi ¨C Unknown Challenges Await.]
Looking up at the moon, Zhao took a deep breath. His path was set, and tomorrow, a new chapter would begin. With a quiet resolve, he returned to his room, packed his belongings, and lay down to rest.
End of Chapter 7 Chapter 8: Journey to Anxi The first light of dawn crept through the wooden slats of Zhao Ming¡¯s room as he finished his final preparations. His belongings were packed, his travel supplies secured, and his mind was set on the journey ahead. He took a deep breath, steadying himself for what lay beyond. A knock on the door interrupted his thoughts. It was his teacher, standing with a solemn yet approving expression. "Zhao Ming, the road ahead is uncertain, but remember this¡ªknowledge and wisdom are more valuable than any blade. Observe, listen, and act only when necessary." Zhao bowed deeply. "I will remember, teacher." Murong Jin entered next, holding a small bundle of letters. "These are for some acquaintances in Anxi. Should you find yourself in trouble, they may offer you assistance. Consider this a small gesture of goodwill from our family." Zhao accepted the letters with gratitude. "I appreciate this, Senior. I will handle them with care." Outside, Murong De awaited him near the caravan. "The merchants are ready to depart," he informed Zhao. "It¡¯s best to leave while the roads are still clear." Before mounting his horse, Zhao turned to find Murong Xue approaching. She held out a small pouch. "This is for you," she said. "Dried fruit and medicinal herbs¡ªgood for long journeys." Zhao hesitated before accepting it. "Thank you, Miss." She then pressed a jade token into his palm. "My sect token. If you ever need help, show this to any disciple of the Azure Dragon Sect." Zhao clenched the token tightly. "I will treasure it." As he turned to leave, three familiar figures approached. Guan Yu, Liu Bei, and Zhang Fei stood before him, their usual energy subdued. "Brother Zhao," Guan Yu spoke first, his deep voice steady. "May our paths cross again." Liu Bei nodded. "The world is vast, yet fate is unpredictable. Keep your wits about you." Zhang Fei grinned, clapping Zhao¡¯s shoulder. "Don¡¯t forget to drink with us when we meet again!" Zhao smiled. "I look forward to it." With parting words exchanged, Zhao mounted his horse and rode toward the caravan. The journey had begun.Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.
The caravan consisted of merchants, guards, and travelers¡ªall bound for Anxi. As the convoy moved along the well-trodden road, Zhao took the opportunity to observe those around him. The guards, seasoned and vigilant, rode at the flanks. One of them, a bearded man named Qian, rode beside Zhao and struck up a conversation. "First time traveling with a caravan?" Qian asked. Zhao nodded. "I usually travel alone, but this route seems safer." "Safe, yes, but tensions are rising. Anxi is a key trade city, and everyone wants a piece of it." Zhao took note of his words. "Is there any immediate threat?" "For now, patrols keep the roads clear," Qian said. "But unrest brews beneath the surface. Bandits may not be our only concern." Zhao thanked him for the insight. It was clear that this journey would be more than just a simple trip.
As the sun neared its zenith, the caravan approached a dense forest. The air grew heavy with silence, broken only by the occasional rustle of leaves. Ahead, a group of people emerged from the woods. Women, children, and the elderly stood in ragged clothing, their expressions weary. A handful of thin, exhausted men stood among them, their posture wary but not hostile. The caravan leader raised a hand, signaling the guards to stay alert. One of them approached the group cautiously. Moments later, the guard returned. "They are refugees," he reported. "Their village was attacked by bandits. They seek shelter in Zhou County." The leader sighed. "Give them some water. We¡¯re close to the next village." Barrels were brought forward, and the refugees gratefully accepted small rations of water. Zhao dismounted and approached a group of children, offering them dried fruit from his pouch. A woman, weary yet dignified, bowed her head. "You are kind, young sir. May fortune guide your path." Zhao only nodded, watching as the caravan resumed its journey, leaving the displaced souls behind.
By nightfall, the caravan reached a small village and decided to rest at an inn. The main hall buzzed with voices as merchants and travelers settled in. Zhao found an empty seat at a long table where a broad-shouldered man was finishing his meal. As the innkeeper served tea, the man raised an eyebrow. "A young scholar among traders? Unusual sight." Zhao smiled slightly. "Traveling to Anxi." The man chuckled. "Name¡¯s Dian Wei. Caravan guard, mercenary when needed. Heading toward Xu Chang." Zhao studied him. Dian Wei radiated confidence, his muscular frame evidence of countless battles. A tavern girl passed by, and Zhao took the chance to ask, "Any interesting rumors from Anxi?" She glanced around before whispering, "Talk of conflicts rising. The city may not be as peaceful as it seems." Dian Wei grunted. "Hah! Trouble is always brewing somewhere. That¡¯s why men like me never go hungry." Laughter and music filled the room as courtesans sang a soft melody. In one corner, a dice game gathered a crowd of gamblers. Zhao finished his tea. "Enjoy your wine, Brother Dian. I¡¯ll retire for the night." Dian Wei raised his cup in farewell. "Rest well, scholar. You¡¯ll need it."
Outside, the cool night air carried murmurs of life¡ªdrunken mercenaries stumbling, beggars scavenging for food, and courtesans whispering under lantern-lit balconies. Zhao passed by the caravan leader, who gave him a nod. "We leave at first light. Anxi is close. Get some rest." With a final glance at the moonlit sky, Zhao entered his room and lay down. His journey had just begun, and challenges awaited beyond the horizon.
End of Chapter 8 Intermezzo: Murong Xue, Murong Jin, and Old Man Wei As Zhao Ming''s caravan departs, Murong Xue makes her way to her father¡¯s office, preparing for her return to her sect. The corridors of the Murong estate are quiet, save for the occasional sounds of clashing metal from guards practicing. Inside, Murong Jin is in conversation with Old Man Wei, the family''s master blacksmith. The old man strokes his beard as he inspects a newly forged blade, nodding in satisfaction. When Xue enters, both men glance at her, pausing their discussion. ¡°We were just talking about Zhao Ming,¡± Murong Jin remarks with a grin. ¡°It¡¯s rare for you to take interest in someone outside the family, let alone give them your sect token.¡± Old Man Wei chuckles, his deep voice carrying the weight of years. ¡°Not to mention, you even taught him the basics of the saber. That¡¯s not something you do lightly, Lady Xue.¡± Murong Xue crosses her arms, her expression calm. ¡°He has a sharp mind. His understanding of strategy is impressive, even without formal training.¡± The blacksmith nods in approval. ¡°And not just strategy. That boy has a keen sense for craftsmanship as well. He introduced me to a new forging method¡ªstronger metal, better durability. Even drew weapon designs for those three sworn brothers.¡± He gestures toward a nearby table where blueprints of blades and a spear lay open. Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author. Murong Jin leans back with a thoughtful smile. ¡°It¡¯s good that you gave him your token. Keeping in touch with someone like Zhao Ming could be valuable in the future.¡± Old Man Wei suddenly chuckles, a knowing glint in his eye. ¡°A token, huh? Sounds almost like an engagement gift to me.¡± Murong Xue¡¯s brow twitches, but she remains composed. Murong Jin laughs, nodding in agreement. ¡°It¡¯s true! You¡¯ve paid more attention to Zhao Ming than to your own siblings.¡± A faint blush creeps onto Murong Xue¡¯s cheeks as she pouts slightly. ¡°You two are insufferable.¡± She huffs, turning her head away. ¡°I simply recognize talent when I see it.¡± Old Man Wei grins, sharing an amused glance with Murong Jin. ¡°Of course, of course.¡± Murong Xue exhales, shaking her head. ¡°Believe what you want.¡± She then straightens her posture and adds, ¡°I will be returning to my sect in the next couple of days with my sect brother and sister.¡± Murong Jin gives her a nod of understanding. ¡°Safe travels, then. Let¡¯s hope we hear more good things about Zhao Ming in the future.¡± Without another word, she turns and leaves, though a small, almost imperceptible smile plays on her lips. Chapter 9: Entering Anxi, Jobs and Encounters The caravan reached the grand gates of Anxi just as the sun began to rise, casting a golden hue over the city¡¯s towering walls. The gates, adorned with intricate carvings of dragons and tigers, stood as a testament to the city''s wealth and importance. Guards in heavy armor inspected each traveler meticulously. Merchants presented their trade permits, some with nervous expressions, while others chatted with the guards like old friends. Zhao Ming, standing at the back of the line, observed the heightened security. There were more soldiers than usual, and their eyes carried a sharp vigilance. Overhearing a hushed conversation between two merchants, Zhao picked up rumors of rising tensions between noble factions and mercenary groups. It seemed Anxi was not as peaceful as it appeared.
Once inside, Zhao was met with a sight unlike any he had seen before. Anxi was a city of contradictions¡ªgrand estates stood side by side with crumbling tenements, and beggars lined the streets near bustling markets filled with exotic goods. He parted ways with the caravan and headed toward the merchant guild. Along the way, a scrappy-looking child approached him. "Mister, need a guide? Only two copper coins!" the child grinned, revealing a missing tooth. Zhao considered it for a moment and handed over the coins. "Show me the noble district." The boy led him through winding streets, dodging rickshaws and street performers. It didn¡¯t take long before Zhao arrived at his destination¡ªthe estate of the noble family tied to Murong Jin.
The estate belonged to House Qiao, an old ally of the Murong family. Their patriarch, Qiao Ren, was an elderly statesman who had served in court before retiring to Anxi. He received Zhao warmly upon hearing Murong Jin¡¯s name. Over tea, Qiao Ren spoke candidly. "Anxi is ruled by Governor Liu Feng. He is competent, but corruption runs deep in his administration. If you are to work here, tread carefully." As Zhao listened, he learned more about Anxi''s political landscape. The city was dominated by three noble families: These three families held an uneasy balance of power, constantly vying for influence. The Qiao family had long supported the Murong clan, but they were being squeezed by both the militaristic Yangs and the ambitious Suns. "The governor tries to maintain neutrality," Qiao Ren continued, "but everyone knows that House Yang has his ear, while House Sun fills his coffers. We scholars? We are left to navigate between them, lest we fall out of favor." The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. Zhao understood that his work in Anxi would be more than just ink and paper¡ªit would require careful maneuvering through a city of silent wars.
The next morning, Zhao arrived at the governor¡¯s office, accompanied by a Qiao family attendant. He reported to the appointment hall, where a scribe briefly skimmed his recommendation before stamping a document. "Congratulations, you¡¯ve been appointed as a County Clerk (Zh¨³b¨´). You¡¯ll be assisting with record-keeping and menial tasks." Not long after, Zhao was suddenly summoned by his supervisor. "Boy, take this," the supervisor tossed him a bronze token. "Go to Jade Pavilion, the finest inn in Anxi, and book a private room for tonight." At the inn, Zhao was met by the manager, an older man with shrewd eyes. "A new scribe, eh? Let me give you some advice. Your predecessor? He was transferred to a remote county because he offended a high-ranking official. If you want to keep your position, learn how to flatter your superiors. Never ask too many questions. And, most importantly, never speak of what you hear in these halls." Zhao nodded, understanding that survival in this city depended on discretion.
That evening, Zhao returned to Jade Pavilion, where the private room on the second floor was filled with the chatter of clerks and officials. The air was thick with the aroma of fine wine and roasted duck. A waiter stepped in, bowing respectfully. "Tonight, we have a special guest¡ªa renowned courtesan passing through Anxi on her way to Luoyang. She will perform for the guests." Excitement rippled through the room. Zhao listened as a clerk explained in a hushed voice, "The third floor is reserved for noble clans and higher-ranking officials. They always try to impress courtesans with gifts or poetry, hoping to earn a moment of their attention." The doors opened, and the courtesan entered. She wore a flowing purple dress that shimmered under the lantern lights, her mouth veiled with silk. She carried herself with a grace that silenced the room. She introduced herself as Lian Rou and bowed elegantly. "Ladies and gentlemen, tonight, I will present a piece titled Wild Rose. I welcome any scholars or noble guests to provide me with pointers after my performance." A murmur of intrigue spread through the audience. Some young nobles immediately straightened their backs, while scholars exchanged glances, eager to offer their critiques. Lian Rou took her seat, plucking the strings of her guqin. A soft, melancholic melody filled the air, its notes weaving a tale of longing and resilience. The room fell into silence, entranced by the performance. When she finished, the applause was immediate. "Exquisite!" a young noble exclaimed. "Your skill is unparalleled, Lady Lian." "The composition is profound," a scholar mused. "The lyrics, especially, carry a deep meaning." Lian Rou lowered her hands gracefully. "Thank you for your kind words. As the song suggests, a wild rose blooms untamed, untouched by fate. But I would love to hear the thoughts of those with poetic talent." She smiled behind her veil. "I invite anyone here to compose a poem or calligraphy that captures the essence of Wild Rose. A brush and ink will be provided." A burst of activity followed. "I shall compose a verse!" a young noble announced confidently. "Hah! Poetry should be left to true scholars," another man smirked, rolling up his sleeves. Waitresses quickly distributed fine rice paper, inkstones, and brushes. Zhao, sitting quietly in the corner, noticed his supervisor smirking at him. "Zhao, you¡¯re new. Why don¡¯t you try? Win this, and you¡¯ll bring honor to our table." Zhao sighed inwardly. He wasn¡¯t keen on impressing others, but refusal would only make him stand out more. With a steady hand, he dipped his brush in ink and began writing. The competition was set. Soon, the battle of words and artistic skill would unfold. And in a city like Anxi, a single poem could change one¡¯s fate.
End of Chapter 9 Chapter 10: Whispers of Talent at the Jade Pavilion and Lian Rou’s Thoughts The Jade Pavilion hummed with life as lanterns bathed the grand hall in warm hues. Nobles, scholars, and esteemed guests gathered for an evening of cultured entertainment¡ªa poetry and calligraphy duel where wit and eloquence reigned supreme. Each participant had their crafted verses displayed upon the elevated stage, their calligraphy swaying under the gentle flicker of candlelight. A respected elder, Scholar Wu, sat at the center as the evening¡¯s judge, his wise gaze observing each stroke and verse with measured appreciation.
Among the entries, one particular poem, submitted under Room No. 8, captured the crowd¡¯s attention. Its words, profound yet effortlessly graceful, wove a tapestry of longing, ambition, and the fleeting nature of power. Murmurs of admiration rippled through the audience, and many turned to admire the exquisite calligraphy that matched its elegance. A young noble from the Sun family, Sun Yichen, furrowed his brows as he read it. ¡°Which esteemed scholar resides in Room 8?¡± he asked, curiosity piqued. One of his companions nudged him. ¡°It¡¯s Supervisor Liu Wen, a minor official overseeing clerks. He has a decent reputation but is not known for his eloquence.¡± Sun Yichen smirked. ¡°Then, I must inquire further. That level of poetry¡ª¡± his voice lowered, laced with skepticism, ¡°¡ªdid not come from him.¡± His friend shrugged. ¡°Just let it go. There¡¯s no need to stir trouble with a mere supervisor.¡± Ignoring the warning, Sun Yichen gestured to a servant. ¡°Look into Room 8.¡± Meanwhile, Liu Wen basked in the wave of praise that came his way. He chuckled modestly, raising his cup in gratitude. ¡°Ah, poetry is a fickle muse. Sometimes, inspiration strikes in unexpected ways.¡± He was careful not to overplay his role, but the recognition from influential scholars and nobles elevated his standing considerably. A few murmured that he might be due for a promotion, which pleased him immensely.
Across the hall, the ongoing tension between the Yang and Sun families reached a boiling point. A fiery-tempered noble from the Yang family, Yang Tianlei, scoffed. ¡°Sun Yichen, I see even poetry cannot save your family''s declining talent.¡± Sun Yichen''s jaw tightened. ¡°You¡¯d do well to mind your words, Yang Tianlei. Your family¡¯s reputation isn¡¯t much better.¡± The air thickened with hostility. A few older nobles exchanged glances, knowing that any slight between these two houses could escalate into a bigger feud. Some younger nobles, entertained by the spectacle, whispered bets on whether fists would be thrown before the night ended. Scholar Wu cleared his throat, silencing the heated exchange. ¡°Gentlemen, let us not taint art with petty disputes.¡± As the tension simmered, several scholars approached Supervisor Liu Wen, expressing their admiration and wishing to exchange verses with him. Liu Wen, though pleased, feigned humility, laughing awkwardly as he accepted their compliments. A few nobles took note, reassessing Liu Wen¡¯s potential influence. The author''s content has been appropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.
Lian Rou, the pavilion¡¯s renowned courtesan and host for the night, stepped forward with a graceful smile. Clad in a flowing silk robe embroidered with golden plum blossoms, she moved like a wisp of incense smoke, drawing all eyes to her. ¡°Tonight, every poet is a victor in their own right,¡± she declared, raising her cup. ¡°To art, wisdom, and fleeting beauty.¡± The room echoed with cheers as she took a sip before retreating to the backstage chambers. There, her trusted servant, Xiao Lan, leaned in. ¡°My lady, I¡¯ve discovered the poet behind Room 8¡¯s entry. It¡¯s a newly appointed scribe, Zhao Ming.¡± Lian Rou¡¯s eyes flickered with interest as she slowly removed her ornate hairpin, twirling it between her fingers. ¡°A mere scribe, you say?¡± Xiao Lan hesitated. ¡°Is he worth the attention? He holds no real power.¡± Lian Rou exhaled softly, a wistful look crossing her face. ¡°Power is fleeting, but talent has a way of rising. Unlike us, even a mere scribe has the opportunity to carve a future beyond the walls of pleasure houses. Meanwhile, I¡ª¡± she paused, a bitter smile touching her lips. ¡°I am a fallen noble, and my fate will likely end as someone¡¯s concubine.¡± Xiao Lan lowered her gaze, sympathy etched across her face. ¡°My lady¡­¡± Lian Rou sighed. ¡°At the very least, let us see where his path leads. Watch him.¡± She then changed into her sleeping attire and decided to rest for the night.
Supervisor Liu Wen, basking in the unintended glory, enjoyed his drinks alongside fellow officials. With every toast, his name gained weight in noble circles. A few influential figures whispered about his ¡®hidden talent,¡¯ and a few more saw him as a man to watch. Liu Wen accepted these praises with practiced ease, already considering how to use this newfound status to his advantage. As the feast continued, he casually waved off his subordinates. ¡°Zhao Ming, you and the other clerks should retire for the night. I shall handle the rest.¡± As Zhao Ming exited, he caught a glimpse of several courtesans entering Room 8, their silk dresses clinging to their curves, revealing glimpses of smooth skin under delicate veils. The scent of perfume wafted in the air as they giggled, their soft voices teasing the young nobles waiting inside. The attendants of these nobles discreetly ensured privacy, standing at the entrance to ward off unwanted eyes. Zhao Ming merely raised an eyebrow and kept walking, his mind already elsewhere. By dawn, murmurs of the previous night¡¯s duel spread through the city. Zhao Ming¡¯s poem, though credited to Supervisor Liu Wen, remained a topic of discussion. A familiar chime echoed in his mind.
System Notification: Fame Increased! (Current Total Fame: 20+50)
Zhao Ming paused mid-step. (So the ripple has begun¡­ but at what cost?)
On his way back to the Qiao family residence, Zhao Ming walked briskly, the cool night air brushing against his skin. The city was quiet, save for the distant echoes of drunken laughter from revelers still lingering in the pleasure districts. His mind, however, was preoccupied¡ªnot with poetry, but with the ripples his words had created among the city¡¯s elite. Unbeknownst to him, shadows stirred in the distance, figures slipping into the darkness as they followed his trail.
End of Chapter 10 Chapter 11: Tides of Fate Begin to Shift Zhao Ming woke early, the echoes of last night¡¯s events still lingering in his mind. The poetry competition had unexpectedly thrust him into the spotlight, and more importantly, his system had reacted to it. "What is fame used for?" he asked the system.
A familiar, indifferent voice responded: "Once the host attains a certain level of fame, additional functions will unlock."
Vague as always. Zhao Ming frowned. It was clear now that the system valued fame, but to what end? Would it bring him power? Influence? Or was it merely a tool to lure him into playing a role beyond his control? His thoughts were interrupted by the distant chatter of house servants. They spoke in hushed yet excited voices about Supervisor Liu Wen¡¯s rising status, speculating that with the noble families'' favor after last night¡¯s poetry competition, he could soon receive a promotion. Zhao Ming exhaled slowly. He had unwittingly helped Liu Wen, but that didn¡¯t mean the man would remember his debt. If anything, his own position was now more precarious. He would have to tread carefully.
At the yamen, Zhao Ming reported for duty as usual, but there was an unmistakable shift in how others regarded him. His name had spread¡ªsome with admiration, others with envy. Liu Wen summoned him. ¡°You did well last night, Zhao Ming. Your poetry elevated the prestige of our department. I must say, it was unexpected.¡± His words were smooth, but Zhao Ming detected the hollowness behind them. Liu Wen was a man who praised only when it benefited him. Zhao Ming knew better than to bask in it. He bowed respectfully. ¡°I was merely fortunate, Supervisor.¡± Liu Wen gave a knowing smile but said nothing more. Instead, he handed Zhao Ming a new stack of documents¡ªhis way of reminding him of his place. As Zhao Ming walked back to his desk, an old scribe stopped him. The man¡¯s eyes, aged by decades of bureaucratic life, held a quiet warning. ¡°You played a dangerous game last night, boy,¡± the scribe murmured. ¡°Liu Wen likes those who make him look good, but he dislikes subordinates who shine too brightly.¡± Zhao Ming nodded subtly. He understood the message well.
At the Jade Pavilion, Lian Rou sat by the window, the morning sun casting delicate patterns across her silk robes. Her maid, Xiao Lan, brought a message¡ªa report that Zhao Ming had ties to the noble Qiao family. The story has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation. Xiao Lan sighed. ¡°Mistress, why are you so interested in a mere scribe?¡± Lian Rou remained silent for a long moment before finally speaking, her voice distant. ¡°Perhaps it¡¯s foolishness,¡± she admitted. ¡°Perhaps¡­ last night¡¯s poem made me believe, if only for a moment, that I could still yearn for something beyond this cage.¡± Xiao Lan''s expression softened. She had seen many women in the brothel drown in false hopes, but Lian Rou was different. Instead of responding, Lian Rou reached for a brush and ink. Her emotions swirled like an untamed river, and she let them flow onto the paper. A poem. By nightfall, her words had spread among scholars¡ªsome praising its beauty, others lamenting her sorrowful fate. Still, it wasn¡¯t enough. She folded a letter and pressed it into Xiao Lan¡¯s hands. ¡°Deliver this to Zhao Ming,¡± she said. Then, almost wistfully, she added, ¡°Perhaps this will be the last time I allow myself such foolishness.¡± Xiao Lan said nothing, but the understanding in her eyes was clear.
Returning from court, Zhao Ming was intercepted by a man dressed in fine but understated robes. ¡°Young Master Zhao, my lord invites you for tea.¡± Zhao Ming followed him to an elegant teahouse, where Yang Tianlei awaited. The conversation was polite at first, but Zhao Ming quickly realized the true reason behind the invitation. ¡°You made an impression last night,¡± Yang Tianlei remarked. ¡°And not just on the scholars. The Sun family may not take kindly to it.¡± A veiled warning. ¡°And your family¡¯s stance?¡± Zhao Ming asked cautiously. Yang Tianlei smiled. ¡°The Yang family appreciates talent. Should trouble arise, we could offer¡­ protection.¡± A generous offer, but one that came with invisible chains. Zhao Ming weighed his words carefully. ¡°I¡¯m honored, but I currently reside with the Qiao family. It would be improper to accept such kindness at this moment.¡± Yang Tianlei¡¯s gaze lingered on him for a moment before he chuckled. ¡°A wise answer. You are a good seedling, Zhao Ming. In time, I hope we will have another opportunity to speak.¡± As Zhao Ming left, he couldn¡¯t shake the feeling that this was only the beginning.
Back at the yamen, Zhao Ming returned to his desk, grateful for the mundane normalcy of his work. His fellow clerks, however, were still buzzing about last night¡¯s events. ¡°I heard Lian Rou wrote a poem,¡± one of them said. ¡°A response to the scholar¡¯s competition.¡± ¡°I swear, if I had the money, I¡¯d buy her freedom,¡± another declared. The others laughed. ¡°If you had money, you¡¯d find a wife first.¡± They turned to Zhao Ming. ¡°You should write a poem in response.¡± Before Zhao Ming could reply, the old scribe spoke up. ¡°Enough foolishness. Don¡¯t drag Zhao Ming into trouble.¡± Silence fell. They all knew the meaning behind his words. Liu Wen¡¯s favor was fickle. It was best not to draw too much attention. As the day ended, the clerks finished their work and departed.
Upon returning to the Qiao residence, Zhao Ming noticed a familiar figure waiting at the entrance. Xiao Lan. Without preamble, she handed him a folded letter, the parchment delicate between his fingers. ¡°My mistress asked me to deliver this.¡± Then she left, her steps swift and unhesitating. Inside his quarters, Zhao Ming hesitated before breaking the seal. A faint floral fragrance rose from the paper¡ªsubtle, elegant. He read. Her words were careful, but the emotions beneath them were undeniable. "Your poem reached me in ways I cannot express. If fate permits, I hope we may one day share a moment of stolen peace¡ªjust the two of us, over a cup of tea." Zhao Ming set the letter down, his fingers lingering on the inked words. Fate, huh? For the first time that night, he found himself wondering what his own fate had in store.
End of Chapter 11 Chapter 12: Ripples in the Water A servant informs Zhao Ming that the Qiao Patriarch wishes to see him. Upon arriving, Zhao Ming is introduced to the Patriarch¡¯s son, Qiao Xian, who has just returned from Luoyang. Qiao Xian warmly greets Zhao Ming, intrigued by the young scholar¡¯s rising reputation. Over tea, he recounts his experiences in Luoyang, detailing visits to the Imperial Academy, where scholars recommended by the Qiao family have secured promising positions. However, the conversation soon turns serious as Qiao Xian lowers his voice. Rumors in the capital suggest that a powerful eunuch faction is growing, consolidating influence over key court affairs. Worse still, whispers circulate about the Emperor¡¯s declining health, fueling concerns that turbulent times lie ahead. Zhao Ming listens carefully, recognizing that such changes could reshape the political landscape¡ªand his own fate within it. At the Sun Manor, Sun Yichen hears troubling news¡ªXiao Lan was seen delivering a letter to Zhao Ming. Still nursing his wounded pride from the poetry competition, he clenches his fists in irritation. ¡°That lowly scribe dares to capture her attention?¡± he mutters. His attendant, sensing his mood, remains silent. After a moment of contemplation, Sun Yichen turns to his most trusted servant. ¡°Find out if Liu Wen is willing to¡­ handle some matters for us.¡± Liu Wen, an opportunist within the bureaucracy, had a reputation for dirty work¡ªleveraging his position for personal gain and crushing those who stood in his way. If he could be persuaded to make Zhao Ming¡¯s life difficult, Sun Yichen¡¯s revenge would be swift and ruthless. At the Jade Pavilion, Lian Rou and her troupe prepare for their departure to Luoyang. The air buzzes with last-minute preparations, and her heart feels heavy. As she stands in her chamber, gazing out the window, doubt creeps in¡ªhad her letter brought trouble to Zhao Ming? Would he resent her for it? Her maid, Xiao Lan, notices her hesitation. ¡°Miss, if you¡¯re worried about him, why not send another message?¡± Lian Rou shakes her head, forcing a small smile. ¡°No. I¡¯ve already acted on impulse once. If fate wills it, we shall meet again.¡± She takes one last look at the city she has called home for years before stepping out to bid farewell to the innkeeper and Madam Xu, the matron of the establishment. Both express their gratitude for her time at the Jade Pavilion¡ªher presence had brought prestige and drawn influential patrons. Outside, a small crowd gathers as her carriage prepares to depart. Young noblemen and scholars linger, hoping for one last glimpse of her. Some murmur poetic farewells; others boldly call out, pleading for her to stay. Love this story? Find the genuine version on the author''s preferred platform and support their work! Ignoring the fanfare, Lian Rou steps into the carriage, drawing the silk curtain closed. As the wheels begin to turn, she exhales slowly, closing her eyes. She was leaving behind one chapter of her life, uncertain of what awaited her in the imperial capital. Back at the yamen, Zhao Ming senses a subtle change in his colleagues¡¯ behavior. Some regard him with cautious glances, while others avoid his gaze altogether. One clerk, seemingly wanting to speak with him, hesitates before stepping back into the crowd as Liu Wen enters the room. Liu Wen remains outwardly neutral but assigns Zhao Ming a particularly daunting task: preparing supplies for an incoming army unit. The deadline? Three days. ¡°The details should be obvious,¡± Liu Wen says with a smirk, offering no further guidance. Zhao Ming quickly realizes that this is a deliberate test¡ªif he fails, the consequences could be severe. The old scribe watches the exchange and later murmurs a warning: ¡°The higher you climb, the more hands will try to drag you down.¡± As Zhao Ming begins to review the necessary provisions, a few lower-ranked officials whisper among themselves. Chen Heng, a younger clerk, finally gathers the courage to speak. ¡°You should be careful, Zhao Ming,¡± he says in a hushed tone. ¡°Liu Wen doesn¡¯t usually assign such tasks without an ulterior motive.¡± Zhao Ming nods, his mind already working through possible angles. Was this merely a bureaucratic hurdle, or was something more sinister at play? That evening, Zhao Ming is surprised when Yang Tianlei, the Yang family heir, visits the Qiao residence. Qiao Xian joins them, indicating that this is a matter of some importance. Yang Tianlei gets straight to the point. ¡°Sun Yichen is making a move against you.¡± Zhao Ming remains composed but attentive. ¡°What kind of move?¡± Yang Tianlei sighs. ¡°For now, nothing drastic. But he¡¯s using Liu Wen to stir up trouble for you at the yamen. Assigning you the military provisions task wasn¡¯t a coincidence.¡± Zhao Ming¡¯s mind sharpens. ¡°So, this is part of a larger play?¡± Yang Tianlei nods. ¡°The court has approved an auxiliary force, mostly composed of local peasants, hunters, and former soldiers. Around 800 to 1,000 men¡ªmost bringing their own weapons, which is unusual. They¡¯ll need supplies, food, and lodging.¡± Zhao Ming¡¯s eyes narrow. The assignment Liu Wen had given him suddenly took on new meaning. He carefully inquires about the army¡¯s needs, prompting a deeper discussion between him, Yang Tianlei, and Qiao Xian. ¡°There¡¯s one more thing,¡± Yang Tianlei adds, lowering his voice. ¡°Their leader is someone called Liu.¡± Zhao Ming stills. His first thought immediately drifts to the legendary Liu Bei, but he keeps his speculation to himself. The conversation stretches deep into the night as they meticulously plan, knowing that any misstep could have serious consequences. Finally returning to his quarters, Zhao Ming leans back in his chair, deep in thought. The day¡¯s events had been a whirlwind¡ªpolitical shifts, hidden threats, and an unexpected military assignment. His fingers brush against the sealed letter from Lian Rou, still resting on his desk. With a sigh, he unfolds it once more. Perhaps Sun Yichen would cause him trouble because of it. But in a way, this letter had also gained him new allies. ¡°If I see her again,¡± he murmurs, ¡°I¡¯ll have to thank her properly.¡± Chapter 13: Gathering Storm Zhao Ming works tirelessly to meet the supply deadline set by Liu Wen. The tension among the clerks grows¡ªsome avoid him entirely, while others secretly offer small hints of support. One evening, as Zhao Ming pores over the records, Chen Heng approaches with a quiet sigh. "Zhao Ming, men like Liu Wen thrive not on merit but on eliminating those who threaten their standing. Be careful." The Old Scribe, shuffling through some aged documents, adds, "Numbers do not lie, but men will twist them to their advantage. Make sure you leave no gaps, no discrepancies. If they can find fault in you, they will." Zhao Ming nods, absorbing their advice. "Then I shall ensure my records are beyond question. If they wish to play this game, I will not make it easy for them."
Sun Yichen meets with Liu Wen, officially framing the issue as a ¡®concern for administrative order.¡¯ He manipulates the situation to suggest that Zhao Ming¡¯s rise is too fast and might cause ¡®disharmony¡¯ among the older bureaucrats. Liu Wen, seeing an opportunity to reassert his authority, agrees to apply more pressure on Zhao Ming. He begins looking for minor faults in the supply chain, hoping to catch Zhao Ming in a mistake. As they discuss their plan in a private chamber, Liu Wen leans back in his seat, swirling a cup of wine in his hand. ¡°Zhao Ming has proven to be a persistent thorn,¡± he says. ¡°What do you propose?¡± Sun Yichen smirks. ¡°A man like him relies on precision and order. If we can disrupt his records, even slightly, it will cast doubt on his reliability.¡± Liu Wen nods. ¡°A misplaced shipment, a discrepancy in the logs¡ª¡± ¡°Exactly,¡± Sun Yichen interjects. ¡°We don¡¯t need him to fail spectacularly, just enough to justify an official review. The moment the capital gets involved, his position will become untenable.¡± Liu Wen taps his fingers on the table. ¡°And if he somehow weathers that storm?¡± Sun Yichen leans forward, his voice low. ¡°Then we escalate. There are always higher authorities willing to listen when the right incentives are provided.¡± Liu Wen raises his cup. ¡°To Zhao Ming¡¯s downfall.¡± ¡°To the downfall of those who overstep their station,¡± Sun Yichen corrects with a knowing smile, before drinking deeply.
Zhao Ming methodically calculates supplies and finds a potential shortfall. Upon deeper investigation, he discovers that Liu Wen has been embezzling some of the grain. However, no one dares to help him prove it, as they are afraid of Liu Wen and his political backing. Realizing he cannot openly accuse Liu Wen without evidence, Zhao Ming instead reaches out to the Murong family and the Qiao family merchants for additional resources. Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon. Through careful maneuvering, Zhao Ming secures additional provisions, leveraging the Murong family¡¯s reputation to shield himself from immediate retaliation. By the time the final shipment arrives, Zhao Ming knows he has bought himself time but not true security. The threat of Liu Wen and Sun Yichen looms ever closer.
The 800-1,000 men arrive, revealing a surprising level of discipline and self-sufficiency. Unlike the common rabble often seen in hastily formed militias, these men carry themselves with the air of trained soldiers. When Zhao Ming meets the army¡¯s leader, he is stunned to realize it is Liu Bei. Recognizing the name, he understands the potential implications of this meeting. As he converses with Liu Bei, he soon notices Guan Yu and Zhang Fei by his side. The three men exude an aura of determination and camaraderie. Their conversation is warm and familiar, acknowledging their past encounters. Liu Bei grins upon seeing Zhao Ming. ¡°Zhao Ming! We meet again. The last time we saw each other, you were with the Murong family.¡± Zhao Ming smiles and clasps his hands. ¡°Lord Liu, General Guan, General Zhang¡ªit is good to see you all. I trust the road has not been too harsh?¡± Guan Yu nods solemnly. ¡°The road matters little when duty calls.¡± Zhang Fei lets out a hearty laugh. ¡°And when wine flows! Do you still owe me a drink, Zhao Ming?¡± Zhao Ming chuckles. ¡°If I recall, I saved you from drinking Murong Jin¡¯s entire stock.¡± Liu Bei shakes his head with amusement. ¡°It seems fate continues to weave our paths together. But tell me, Zhao Ming, how does a scholar like you end up tangled in logistics?¡± Zhao Ming responds with a smirk. ¡°Because without grain and weapons, even the bravest men fall.¡±
Upon hearing this, he leans back and mutters, ¡°So he truly has found favor among warriors. This complicates things.¡± and begins preparing his next move. He arranges for an army inspection and plans to summon an official from the capital to ¡®review¡¯ the situation. Yang Tianlei, upon learning of this, warns Zhao Ming. ¡°You¡¯ve done well, but be cautious. This isn¡¯t just about supplies anymore. Sun Yichen is looking beyond this province. You might become collateral in his ambitions.¡± Zhao Ming exhales. ¡°Understood.¡±
Liu Wen calls Zhao Ming into his office, smugly questioning his ¡®mismanagement¡¯ of supplies. He accuses Zhao Ming of failing to properly account for the resources allocated to the volunteer army. Zhao Ming remains calm, presenting meticulously documented records that prove everything is in order. Every shipment, every allocation, every transfer is accounted for down to the last grain. His confidence unsettles Liu Wen, who was expecting panic or excuses. Liu Wen scowls. ¡°You have an answer for everything, don¡¯t you?¡± Zhao Ming meets his gaze steadily. ¡°Only because I know the rules as well as you do, Administrator.¡± Before Liu Wen can press further, Liu Bei steps in, formally verifying that the army has been stationed properly and provided with supplies as designated. His words carry weight, and the clerks present dare not contradict him. Liu Wen¡¯s expression stiffens. He had counted on exploiting Zhao Ming¡¯s inexperience, but now he finds himself at a disadvantage. He narrows his eyes and leans forward. ¡°Do not mistake this for victory, Zhao Ming. Bureaucracy is not won with ledgers alone.¡±
Alone in his quarters, Zhao Ming reflects on his growing web of allies and enemies. The battle for survival is no longer just about bureaucracy¡ªit is about power, influence, and the changing tides of history. He finally understands: the real battlefield is not in the supply records or the yamen halls¡ªit is in the unseen power struggles that dictate the fate of men like him. System Notification: Fame 70+60 As he extinguishes the candle, he murmurs: ¡°It seems I have no choice but to push forward.¡± System Update A mechanical yet ancient voice echoed: "Congratulations, Host. You have reached the threshold of 100. The system will now evolve." [System Upgrade in Progress: 0%... 20%... 50%...] Support creative writers by reading their stories on Royal Road, not stolen versions. Zhao Ming narrowed his eyes. ¡°What exactly is changing?¡± [System Upgrade: 80%... Completed.] Suddenly, Zhao Ming felt a rush of memories¡ªnot his own, but glimpses of legendary figures throughout history. Strategists, rulers, warlords. Their knowledge, their struggles, their triumphs. [System Update] Position: Rank 9 - County Clerk (Zh¨³b¨´) Fame: 130 Special Skill: [Insight] [Metallurgy] [Weapon Design] Chapter 14: The Corrupt Inspector’s Plot The winter had passed, and Anxi had transformed from a vulnerable outpost into a well-defended stronghold. For months, Liu Bei and his volunteer army stood against bandit raids and Yellow Turban remnants, their victories etching their names into the hearts of the people. The soldiers under Liu Bei''s command, though originally common men, had grown into a disciplined force through relentless training and unwavering loyalty. At a small gathering of officers near the barracks, Zhang Fei slammed his cup onto the table, grinning. ¡°Hah! Those bastard bandits didn¡¯t even last a full night against us this time. Remember how they ran when I cut down their so-called leader?¡± Guan Yu, calmly sipping his tea, smirked. ¡°Yes, but it was Liu Bei¡¯s strategy that forced them into that position. If not for the decoy units, you wouldn¡¯t have had your glorious moment.¡± Liu Bei chuckled. ¡°Glory means little. What matters is that Anxi is safe. But our work is not yet done.¡± Word of their achievements reached the Governor of Zhou County, who reported their deeds to the Han court. Shortly after, a messenger arrived, bearing an official decree. In the yamen, Liu Bei knelt before the imperial decree, surrounded by his comrades. The official¡¯s voice echoed through the hall. ¡°By the grace of His Majesty, the Emperor of Han, Liu Bei is hereby appointed as the Local Commander of Anxi, entrusted with the defense of the region and the well-being of its people.¡± Liu Bei accepted the title with humility. ¡°I serve not for ranks or rewards, but for the people.¡± Though his words were genuine, not everyone in Anxi celebrated his rise.
In a dimly lit chamber of the yamen, Liu Wen and Sun Yichen sat opposite each other, their expressions grim. ¡°This cannot continue,¡± Liu Wen muttered, tapping his fingers on the table. ¡°First, Zhao Ming gains influence, now Liu Bei is officially recognized? The people whisper of them like heroes.¡± Sun Yichen leaned forward. ¡°We must act before they solidify their power. An imperial inspector would be the perfect tool. A corrupt one, preferably.¡± A messenger arrived moments later, confirming their request had been answered. A notorious inspector, known for his greed and indulgence, would soon arrive in Anxi.
A week later, a grand carriage, decorated in gold and red, rolled into Anxi. The man who stepped out was draped in silk robes, his fingers adorned with heavy rings. The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings. Inspector Zhao Liang smiled as he observed the town. ¡°Humble, yet filled with potential¡­ for profit.¡± Liu Wen and Sun Yichen welcomed him, bowing respectfully. ¡°We are honored by your presence, Inspector. We have¡­ certain matters that require your expertise.¡± As they dined in the Jade Pavilion, Zhao Liang listened to their complaints while indulging in fine wine and the company of beautiful courtesans. ¡°So, you want me to remove Zhao Ming and pressure Liu Bei?¡± Zhao Liang chuckled. ¡°That will cost you. But don¡¯t worry, I always deliver.¡±
The next morning, Liu Bei was summoned to meet Inspector Zhao Liang. The inspector reclined on a silk cushion, sipping wine as Liu Bei entered. ¡°Ah, the famous Liu Bei. The Emperor has seen fit to grant you a title, but titles come with responsibilities. And¡­ obligations.¡± Liu Bei frowned. ¡°I serve the people, not gold.¡± Zhao Liang¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°A man who does not understand the value of gifts does not understand how the world works. Perhaps your appointment was a mistake.¡± Liu Bei left the yamen, troubled. That night, he shared his concerns with Guan Yu and Zhang Fei over a dimly lit table. Zhang Fei clenched his fists. ¡°That bastard wants a bribe? Let me knock some sense into him!¡± Guan Yu, ever the tactician, shook his head. ¡°Violence will only make matters worse. We need a plan.¡± Liu Bei sighed. ¡°I refuse to bend to corruption. But if we do nothing, this inspector will make life difficult for us.¡± Guan Yu tapped the table. ¡°Zhao Ming has dealt with men like this before. He knows Qiao Xian and Yang Tianlei¡ªperhaps they can help.¡±
At the Qiao residence, Zhao Ming and Yang Tianlei sat in a courtyard, engaged in a game of Go. As Liu Bei and his brothers arrived, Qiao Xian set down his book with a knowing smile. After hearing Liu Bei¡¯s concerns, Yang Tianlei leaned back. ¡°Sun Yichen¡¯s handiwork, no doubt. But the inspector himself is a threat.¡± Zhao Ming exhaled slowly. ¡°Tomorrow will not be pleasant. They will move against me first.¡± Yang Tianlei nodded. ¡°Be prepared. And Zhao Ming¡ªwatch out. The inspector will not stop at bribery; he will fabricate charges.¡±
That evening, Sun Yichen hosted the inspector at Jade Pavilion once more. Amidst laughter and wine, he presented falsified documents, framing Zhao Ming for supply mismanagement. Inspector Zhao Liang smirked. ¡°Ah, such incompetence must be dealt with severely.¡± Liu Wen laughed. ¡°Then we leave it in your capable hands.¡± The courtesans danced, pouring wine and whispering sweet words into the inspector¡¯s ears. His laughter grew louder, his greed insatiable. By the end of the night, Zhao Liang leaned back, satisfied. ¡°Tomorrow, Zhao Ming falls. And with him, Liu Bei¡¯s rise will be cut short.¡±
The next morning, Zhao Ming was summoned to the yamen. The hall was packed with officials and soldiers as Inspector Zhao Liang read out the charges. ¡°Zhao Ming, you stand accused of corruption and mismanagement.¡± Bribed officials presented forged documents, but Zhao Ming remained firm. ¡°These accusations are false. The soldiers and people can testify¡ª¡± Zhao Liang interrupted, his voice cold. ¡°There will be no need for further investigation. You are sentenced to public flogging and removed from duty.¡± Liu Bei stepped forward. ¡°This is injustice! At least allow a fair trial!¡± Zhao Liang sneered. ¡°Justice? You dare lecture me on justice? You, who refuse to respect the authority of the empire?¡± Guards seized Zhao Ming as Liu Bei watched helplessly. Yang Tianlei clenched his fists, eyes burning with rage, while Qiao Xian remained eerily calm, as if already formulating his next move. Zhao Ming being dragged outside, his fate uncertain. Chapter 15: Wrath of the Tiger General The morning sun barely crested over the rooftops when Zhao Ming was dragged into the town square, bound and flanked by guards. The air was thick with murmurs from the gathered crowd, a mix of disbelief and anger. Zhao Liang, seated comfortably on an elevated wooden platform, fanned himself lazily. "Let this be a lesson to all who think they are above the law," he declared, his voice filled with false righteousness. Liu Bei, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei stood to the side, their hands clenched into fists. Zhang Fei spat on the ground. "This is an outrage! They dare accuse our brother falsely? I¡¯ll break that inspector¡¯s bones with my own hands!" Liu Bei placed a firm hand on Zhang Fei¡¯s shoulder. "We must be patient. Acting rashly will only play into their hands." Guan Yu, his brows furrowed, kept his eyes on the inspector. "Zhao Liang is no fool. He has soldiers at his command. If we act without strategy, we will all fall." Despite their words, Zhang Fei could barely restrain himself. As the guards raised their whips, Zhang Fei could no longer stand by. He lunged forward, grabbing a coiled rope and a whip from one of the executioners. The guard stumbled back, startled. "What¡ª?" Before anyone could react, Zhang Fei charged toward Zhao Liang. With a single powerful motion, he threw the rope around the inspector¡¯s middle and yanked hard, pulling him off his seat. "W-what is the meaning of this?!" Zhao Liang sputtered as he hit the ground, his silk robes dirtied. The crowd gasped, some cheering, some backing away in fear. Zhang Fei ignored them. In a flash, he dragged Zhao Liang toward a sturdy tree in the square¡¯s center and lashed him to the trunk. The inspector struggled, but Zhang Fei¡¯s strength was overwhelming. "You like whipping innocent men?" Zhang Fei bellowed, his voice like thunder. "Then let¡¯s see how you like it!" If you come across this story on Amazon, it''s taken without permission from the author. Report it. He raised the whip high and brought it down with a resounding crack across Zhao Liang¡¯s back. The inspector screamed. "A-Ah! You brute! Stop this at once! Guards!" But none of the soldiers moved. The crowd, emboldened by Zhang Fei¡¯s defiance, was beginning to turn against the inspector. An elderly shopkeeper stepped forward, his voice shaking. "This man¡­ this man has done nothing but extort us since he arrived! He deserves worse!" A blacksmith shouted, "Zhang Fei is right! If Liu Bei and his brothers hadn''t protected us all this time, we¡¯d still be living in fear of bandits!" The crowd surged forward, no longer spectators but participants. Some threw rotten vegetables, others jeered and shouted for Zhao Liang¡¯s removal. Liu Wen and Sun Yichen, standing at the edge of the square, exchanged nervous glances. "This is getting out of hand," Sun Yichen muttered. "If we don¡¯t act now, we¡¯ll lose control of Anxi." Liu Wen sneered. "Then we must call for reinforcements." Just as the crowd¡¯s anger reached its peak, a trumpet sounded from the distance. A column of soldiers marched into the square, their armor gleaming under the sun. A middle-aged general led them, his expression unreadable. "Enough! Cease this madness at once!" Liu Bei stepped forward, his stance calm but firm. "Governor Wang, I see you have come in person." Governor Wang¡¯s gaze swept over the scene, lingering on the bound and bloodied Zhao Liang. "Explain yourselves." Zhao Liang, gasping for breath, weakly raised a hand. "These men¡­ they have attacked an imperial official! They must be arrested!" The governor frowned. "I have received troubling reports of corruption. Zhao Liang, you will be placed under investigation." The inspector¡¯s face twisted in horror. "You can¡¯t¡ª!" Governor Wang raised a hand. "Liu Bei, Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, your actions were reckless. But I understand your frustrations. You will stand trial to explain your case." A makeshift court was set up in the yamen. Witnesses were called¡ªcitizens who testified against Zhao Liang, and officials bribed by Liu Wen who tried to defend him. Guan Yu¡¯s voice rang clear. "The people¡¯s voices speak truth. This man has robbed and oppressed them. We acted because no one else would." Sun Yichen smirked. "And yet, you took matters into your own hands like mere bandits." Zhao Ming, now free, stood beside Liu Bei. "And if we had not? Would you have allowed this corruption to fester?" The trial stretched long into the night. In the end, Governor Wang made his ruling. "Zhao Liang is stripped of his rank and will face punishment for his crimes. Liu Wen and Sun Yichen will be placed under scrutiny. As for Liu Bei and his men¡­" He paused. "Your actions were outside the law, but not without reason. I hereby grant you official command over Anxi¡¯s defenses. See to it that order is maintained." The people erupted into cheers. As the meeting ended, Liu Bei turned to his sworn brothers. "This was only one battle. The real war is yet to come." Guan Yu nodded. "Then we must be ready." Zhang Fei cracked his knuckles. "Let them come. I¡¯ll be waiting." End of Chapter 15 Chapter 16: The Arrival of the Imperial Army The night air in Anxi was cool and crisp, but within the walls of the Qiao residence, tension lingered. Liu Bei, Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, and Zhao Ming sat around a wooden table, each holding a warm cup of tea. Though they had won their confrontation with Inspector Zhao Liang, the consequences of their actions still loomed over them. Zhao Ming let out a deep sigh. ¡°We acted in self-defense, but the court will not see it that way. I¡¯m only a ninth-rank clerk, yet my name has already spread far and wide. That is dangerous.¡± Guan Yu nodded. ¡°The imperial court does not like disorder, even if justice is on our side. Our resistance has made us a target.¡± Zhang Fei clenched his cup tightly. ¡°Let them come! If they want a fight, we¡¯ll give them one.¡± Liu Bei shook his head. ¡°No, brother. We must face this with wisdom, not just strength.¡± For the next few weeks, life in Anxi resumed its normal pace, though tension remained. Battles against bandits and remnants of the Yellow Turban rebels became more frequent. The weary and desperate townspeople suffered heavy losses, while waves of refugees continued to flood into the city, seeking refuge.
That afternoon, Liu Bei, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei had just returned from a patrol, their armor dusty and their faces weary. As they approached the city gate, something unusual caught their attention. In the distance, a massive dust cloud rose into the sky¡ªa clear sign of an approaching army. ¡°Prepare the guards!¡± Liu Bei ordered, prompting the soldiers to rush to their posts. Governor Wang arrived in a hurry, his brows furrowed. ¡°Who is coming? We weren¡¯t expecting reinforcements.¡± Zhao Ming, who had been overseeing the distribution of supplies near the gate, turned sharply at the commotion. Without hesitation, he rushed forward to get a better view. As the troops drew closer, their banners became visible. Golden threads embroidered on the flags shimmered under the sunlight, displaying unmistakable characters: ¡®Heaven¡¯s Might¡¯ and ¡®General Huangfu¡¯. A wave of relief spread through the crowd. ¡°It¡¯s the imperial army!¡± someone shouted. ¡°We¡¯re saved!¡± Liu Bei exhaled slowly, the tension in his shoulders easing slightly. ¡°Huangfu Song,¡± he murmured. ¡°The general of the imperial forces.¡± You might be reading a stolen copy. Visit Royal Road for the authentic version.
As the army reached the gates, a mounted figure stepped forward. Clad in golden armor, with a stern expression, General Huangfu Song gazed at the gathered crowd before speaking in a commanding voice. ¡°People of Anxi, I am General Huangfu Song, here under an imperial decree! I have been sent to secure this city from its enemies, investigate the case of Inspector Zhao Liang, and punish those who have overstepped their bounds!¡± The crowd erupted in protest. Many voices rose in defense of Liu Bei: ¡°Liu Bei is innocent!¡± ¡°The corrupt one was Inspector Zhao!¡± ¡°Justice has already been served!¡± Huangfu Song¡¯s expression hardened. ¡°Silence! The judgment of the imperial court is absolute. Any who defy it will face consequences!¡± Fear crept into the townspeople¡¯s hearts, and the voices of protest gradually faded.
At the Sun Residence: Sun Yichen sat leisurely in his chamber, sipping wine, when a servant rushed in and bowed deeply. ¡°Master, the imperial army has arrived. They¡¯ve come to punish Liu Bei.¡± A sly smile curled on Sun Yichen¡¯s lips. ¡°Good. This is what happens when a commoner dares to defy the court.¡± He stood up and walked to the next room, where Zhao Liang was resting, his wounds still bandaged. ¡°Inspector Zhao,¡± Sun Yichen said. ¡°Your request has been fulfilled.¡± Zhao Liang chuckled, though his face winced in pain. ¡°I knew my gift to the right people wouldn¡¯t go to waste. Now, we just sit back and watch their downfall.¡±
At the Yang Residence: Yang Tianlei sat silently as he received the news, his expression unreadable. He turned to his father, Yang Zhen, who slowly put down his calligraphy brush. ¡°The court has finally acted,¡± Yang Zhen murmured, stroking his beard. ¡°This will not end well for Liu Bei and Zhao Ming.¡± ¡°What should we do, Father?¡± Yang Tianlei asked. Yang Zhen¡¯s eyes narrowed. ¡°We wait. If Liu Bei falls, we side with the victor. If he survives¡­ we will reconsider our stance.¡±
At the Qiao Residence: Qiao Ren sat in silence while Qiao Xian paced back and forth, restless. ¡°Father, can¡¯t we do something for Zhao Ming? He has helped us so much.¡± Qiao Ren let out a heavy sigh. ¡°We cannot openly defy the imperial army. Zhao Ming is only a ninth-rank clerk. In the court¡¯s eyes, he is insignificant.¡± Qiao Xian clenched his fists. ¡°Then at least help him escape Anxi. We owe him that much.¡± Qiao Ren nodded slowly. ¡°That¡­ we can do.¡±
After the army settled down, General Huangfu Song issued an order: Liu Bei, Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, and Zhao Ming were to be placed under house arrest while awaiting the court¡¯s decision on their fate. Though frustrated, they did not resist. In the dimly lit chamber, illuminated only by flickering candlelight, the four men sat in silence, their expressions grim. Zhang Fei slammed his fist on the table. ¡°Damn it! We should have fought back!¡± Liu Bei shook his head. ¡°No. That would have branded us as rebels. We must think carefully.¡± Zhao Ming exhaled. ¡°We need to find a way to prove our innocence¡ªor at least lessen our punishment.¡± Guan Yu stroked his beard. ¡°The imperial court may be rigid, but not everyone within it is blind. We must look for an opening to make our case.¡± Liu Bei nodded. ¡°Then we prepare. Our fate is not yet sealed.¡± Tension hung in the air, but beneath it, a determination took shape¡ªone that would decide their future in Anxi.
End of Chapter 16 Chapter 17: The Trial of (in)Justice The first light of dawn barely touched the sky when the heavy knock echoed through the Qiao residence. A messenger, clad in the imperial court¡¯s distinct robes, stood at the entrance, his expression unreadable as he unrolled a scroll. ¡°By order of General Huangfu Song, Liu Bei, Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, and Zhao Ming are to be released from house arrest and summoned to the governor¡¯s hall immediately,¡± he announced. ¡°They shall stand trial for their actions against Inspector Zhao Liang and defiance of imperial authority.¡± A tense silence fell over the room. Liu Bei exhaled deeply, setting down his tea cup before exchanging a glance with his sworn brothers. Zhao Ming, seated beside them, leaned forward, his fingers gripping the edge of the table. ¡°So, the time has come,¡± Zhao Ming muttered. ¡°We must be prepared.¡± Qiao Xian, standing nearby, clenched her fists. ¡°This isn¡¯t fair. You protected Anxi. The people know the truth.¡± Liu Bei gave her a reassuring smile. ¡°Justice does not always favor the righteous, but we must face this with dignity.¡± With a final nod, they rose to prepare for what was to come.
The governor¡¯s hall was filled with an air of anticipation, the grand chamber packed with officials, nobles, and military officers. General Huangfu Song sat at the highest seat, his golden armor reflecting the flickering torchlight. His gaze was sharp, his face impassive. On the left side of the hall, Sun Yichen and the still-injured Zhao Liang sat with smug expressions, their allies whispering among themselves. Across from them stood Liu Bei, Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, and Zhao Ming, their faces resolute but calm. ¡°Bring forth the charges,¡± General Huangfu Song commanded. One by one, witnesses were called. Soldiers, corrupted officials, and loyalists to Inspector Zhao took the stand, weaving a narrative that painted Liu Bei and his men as reckless vigilantes who had unlawfully attacked an imperial officer. ¡°They took the law into their own hands!¡± one of the officials accused. ¡°They incited disorder and defied the empire¡¯s authority,¡± another added. Whispers spread through the court. The weight of the accusations pressed down on them. But Zhao Ming stepped forward, his voice unwavering.
Zhao Ming met General Huangfu Song¡¯s gaze and then turned to the court. ¡°With all due respect, I cannot allow these lies to stand.¡± His words cut through the murmurs, demanding attention. ¡°The true villain here is not Liu Bei, but Zhao Liang himself.¡± He gestured toward the injured inspector. ¡°A man who abused his authority to oppress the people, took bribes, and manipulated the system for his own gain.¡± Gasps rippled through the hall. Sun Yichen scoffed. ¡°Baseless accusations.¡± Zhao Ming smirked. ¡°Baseless? I present written records of his extortion, testimonies from those he wronged, and evidence of his collaboration with criminals.¡± Qiao Xian stepped forward, leading a group of townspeople who had gathered outside the hall. Their voices rang out in unison: ¡°Liu Bei saved us!¡± ¡°Inspector Zhao was the real criminal!¡± ¡°The people demand justice!¡± Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings. General Huangfu Song listened without expression, his fingers tapping against the armrest of his chair.
The hall fell into tense silence as a firm voice echoed from the entrance. "The Imperial Court has sent an envoy! Make way!" Heads turned as a group of soldiers parted, revealing a tall, elderly man draped in deep purple robes embroidered with golden patterns. His dignified aura commanded immediate respect, and his presence alone shifted the atmosphere. The officials who had been so quick to condemn Liu Bei and his brothers now exchanged nervous glances. General Huangfu Song''s expression remained unreadable as he addressed the newcomer. "State your identity and purpose." The man stepped forward, his sharp eyes scanning the room before landing on Zhao Ming. "I am Envoy Lu Jian, here on behalf of His Majesty, the Emperor. I carry an imperial edict regarding the matter at hand." A murmur spread through the courtroom. An imperial envoy meant that the situation had drawn attention beyond Anxi¡ªperhaps even to the highest levels of the government. Sun Yichen and Zhao Liang¡¯s expressions darkened, realizing their influence might not be as absolute as they had assumed. A servant rushed forward, presenting a golden scroll. General Huangfu Song accepted it, breaking the seal and unrolling the parchment. He read aloud: "By the decree of the Son of Heaven, let it be known that Liu Bei, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei have displayed valor in suppressing the remnants of the Yellow Turban Rebellion, ensuring the safety of the people. Such deeds shall not go unnoticed. However, defying an imperial inspector remains a grave offense. Justice must be served, but mercy shall not be overlooked." Huangfu Song''s gaze lifted, scrutinizing Liu Bei and his brothers. "This decree acknowledges your service to the empire, but it does not absolve you of all wrongdoing. The imperial court is not blind to injustice, yet order must be maintained. Therefore, a resolution must be reached." Sun Yichen stepped forward, his tone respectful but laced with hidden venom. "General, while the Emperor¡¯s generosity is boundless, we must not forget that insubordination against an imperial official sets a dangerous precedent. What message will it send if Liu Bei and his men walk away unpunished?" Zhao Ming narrowed his eyes. "And what message will it send if corruption is rewarded? If we are punished for standing against injustice, then what hope do the common people have?" Envoy Lu Jian smiled faintly, intrigued by Zhao Ming¡¯s boldness. He turned to General Huangfu Song. "The Emperor trusts in your judgment, General. How shall we proceed?" 5. A Dangerous Bargain General Huangfu Song leaned back, tapping his fingers against the armrest of his chair. The room held its breath, waiting for his verdict. Finally, he spoke. "Liu Bei, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei¡ªyou will be pardoned, but on one condition: you must leave Anxi immediately. Your presence has caused enough unrest." Liu Bei exhaled slowly. He had expected this outcome. Staying would invite further conflict, and they had no real power to challenge the imperial court. Huangfu Song¡¯s eyes shifted to Zhao Ming. "As for you, Zhao Ming, your situation is different. You are a court official, bound to the laws of the empire. You have two choices." The weight of the moment pressed on Zhao Ming¡¯s shoulders as the general continued: "Option one: You remain in Anxi and serve under the imperial court. Your skills and intellect are valuable, and there is a place for you here. However, you will be watched closely." Zhao Ming knew what that meant¡ªbeing under constant surveillance, likely stripped of any real authority, and at the mercy of men like Sun Yichen and Zhao Liang. "Option two: You leave with Liu Bei and his brothers. You will be abandoning your rank and title, becoming a fugitive in the eyes of the court. However, you will also be free." A hushed silence followed. The implications were clear. Staying meant security but also oppression. Leaving meant danger, but it was a chance at something greater. Zhao Ming glanced at Sun Yichen and Zhao Liang. Their smirks told him everything he needed to know. If he stayed, they would find a way to silence him. It wouldn¡¯t be immediate, but it would be inevitable. Liu Bei, standing beside him, remained silent. He would not pressure Zhao Ming to follow them. The choice had to be his alone. Zhao Ming straightened his posture and met Huangfu Song¡¯s gaze. "I choose to leave." A few gasps echoed through the hall. Sun Yichen¡¯s smirk faltered for the briefest moment before he recovered, chuckling under his breath. "A bold decision. Let¡¯s see how long you last out there." Zhao Ming ignored him. He had made his choice. Whatever lay ahead, he would face it on his own terms. General Huangfu Song sighed, as if expecting this outcome. "Very well. You have until sunrise to depart. After that, you will be considered outsiders in the eyes of the imperial court. See to it that you do not cause further trouble." With that, the trial was over. Liu Bei and his brothers were safe for now, but the road ahead was uncertain. As Zhao Ming stepped out into the cool night air, he felt both liberated and vulnerable. He had cast away the chains of bureaucracy, but now he was truly on his own. And in the shadows, Sun Yichen and Zhao Liang watched, already scheming their next move. Chapter 18: The Road to Uncertainty The moon hung low over the city of Anxi, casting long shadows over the silent streets. The city had not yet awakened, but within the Qiao residence, the air was heavy with urgency. Liu Bei, Guan Yu, Zhang Fei, and Zhao Ming packed their belongings with quiet efficiency, their movements guided by a shared understanding¡ªthis was their last night in Anxi. A soft knock on the door broke the silence. Qiao Xian entered, followed closely by his father, Qiao Ren. They carried bundles wrapped in cloth¡ªsupplies for the journey ahead. ¡°You must leave before dawn,¡± Qiao Ren whispered, glancing toward the courtyard as if expecting spies to be lurking. ¡°The city is still dangerous for you.¡± Zhao Ming stepped forward, his voice calm despite the weight of the moment. ¡°We appreciate your kindness, Elder Qiao. Without you, we might not have made it this far.¡± Qiao Xian¡¯s eyes flickered with concern as he turned to Zhao Ming. ¡°Will you be safe out there? Sun Yichen and Zhao Liang will not let you go so easily.¡± Zhao Ming gave him a reassuring smile, though deep down, unease coiled in his chest. ¡°We will manage.¡± Outside the residence, a handful of townspeople had gathered in secret. Their eyes reflected gratitude and sorrow. One elderly man stepped forward. ¡°You defended us when no one else would. We won¡¯t forget that.¡± Liu Bei bowed deeply. ¡°It was our duty.¡± From the shadows, Sun Yichen and Zhao Liang observed the scene. Sun Yichen smirked, his voice laced with disdain. ¡°Let them flee. Soon, they will be nothing more than wandering vagrants.¡± Zhao Liang, his arm still bandaged from their last encounter, scowled. ¡°They won¡¯t escape for long.¡±
The first rays of sunlight barely touched the horizon as the group rode northward, keeping to lesser-known paths. The journey was silent at first, each man lost in his thoughts. After a while, Zhang Fei grumbled, ¡°So, where are we going? Are we just going to wander like beggars?¡± Liu Bei sighed. ¡°We must be cautious. If we head to the provincial capital, we may find allies.¡± Guan Yu stroked his beard thoughtfully. ¡°But we must also consider the risks. The Sun family¡¯s influence may extend beyond Anxi.¡± Zhao Ming, who had remained quiet, finally spoke. ¡°We should head north. Away from the corrupt officials and towards lands where warlords are still establishing their power.¡± Liu Bei considered this, his expression solemn. ¡°Youbeiping could be an option. The local governor there is rumored to be fair.¡± This story originates from a different website. Ensure the author gets the support they deserve by reading it there. Zhao Ming clenched his hands around the reins of his horse. Though he had made his choice to leave Anxi, a sense of foreboding settled over him. Their troubles were far from over.
Night fell as they made camp near a riverbank, the sound of rushing water offering a momentary sense of peace. But peace was short-lived. A sudden whistle of an arrow cut through the air. Before anyone could react, a volley of arrows rained down upon them. ¡°Ambush!¡± Zhang Fei roared, grabbing his spear. Dark figures emerged from the trees¡ªmercenaries clad in black, their faces obscured by cloth masks. Steel clashed against steel as the battle erupted. Guan Yu swung his glaive, cutting down two attackers with ease. Liu Bei held his own, parrying strikes with his twin swords. Zhang Fei fought like a raging bull, his spear a whirlwind of death. Zhao Ming, however, took a different approach. He observed their enemies carefully, noting their disciplined formations. These were no ordinary bandits. He sidestepped an incoming strike and countered with a precise thrust, striking a vital point. The mercenary fell instantly. One of the assailants lunged at Zhao Ming, their blades clashing in a flurry of sparks. Zhao Ming deflected a strike aimed at his throat and delivered a powerful kick, sending his attacker stumbling backward. As the man regained his footing, his cloak shifted, revealing a golden sun emblem embroidered on his sleeve. Zhao Ming¡¯s eyes narrowed. The Sun family. A cold determination settled over him. If Sun Yichen thought he could eliminate them so easily, he was gravely mistaken.
Exhausted and wounded, they found shelter in a small village nestled in the mountains. The villagers were wary at first but relented after hearing their story. As they tended to their wounds, Liu Bei sat beside Zhao Ming. ¡°We need to decide our next move.¡± Guan Yu nodded. ¡°The provincial capital may provide us with resources, but it is also dangerous.¡± Zhang Fei crossed his arms. ¡°I don¡¯t like hiding like a rat, but we need a place to regroup.¡± Zhao Ming remained silent, lost in thought. He traced the memory of the golden sun emblem in his mind. The Sun family¡¯s influence reached farther than he had anticipated. ¡°I believe the best course of action is to move north,¡± Zhao Ming finally said. ¡°We avoid the major cities and stay off the main roads. The Sun family will not stop until we are dead.¡± Liu Bei exhaled deeply. ¡°North, then. But where will we end up?¡± Before Zhao Ming could respond, a sudden ding echoed in his mind. A system notification appeared before him.
[Because of your involvement, Liu Bei was removed from Anxi earlier than the original timeline.] A set of choices appeared before him:
  1. Follow Liu Bei and become his advisor.
  2. Tell Liu Bei to go north and roam around.
  3. Separate from Liu Bei without informing him.
[A reward will be given accordingly.]
Zhao Ming hesitated. His decision here could shape his future. He closed his eyes briefly, weighing his options. Finally, he chose the second option.
Zhao Ming turned to Liu Bei. ¡°You should go north. Youbeiping is your best chance to stay low and find allies.¡± Liu Bei studied him carefully. ¡°And what about you?¡± ¡°I need to forge my own path,¡± Zhao Ming said. ¡°The world is changing. Corruption is rampant, and warlords are growing stronger. I need to understand the chaos before deciding where I stand.¡± Guan Yu looked at him with respect. ¡°You are wise beyond your years.¡± Zhang Fei huffed. ¡°Hah! Just don¡¯t go dying on us.¡± Liu Bei stepped forward and clasped Zhao Ming¡¯s shoulder. ¡°If fate allows, our paths will cross again.¡± That night, as the fire crackled in the dimly lit room, Zhao Ming lay awake, staring at the ceiling. The road ahead was uncertain, but he had made his choice. Tomorrow, he would walk alone into the unknown. Chapter 19: A New Path Forward The soft glow of morning sunlight seeped through the wooden shutters, casting golden streaks across the small, rustic room. Zhao Ming stirred, groaning as he stretched his stiff muscles. His body still ached from the wounds of their previous battles, but the warmth of the morning was a welcome contrast to the cold uncertainty that lingered in his heart. Sitting up, he rubbed his temples, recalling the events of the past few days. Leaving Anxi. The ambush. The choice he made. There was no turning back now. Just as he exhaled deeply, a familiar chime echoed in his mind.
A translucent blue panel appeared before his eyes.
[You have received: Fate¡¯s Favor (Luck Boost)] Effect: Increases chances of encountering influential figures, finding rare opportunities, or escaping dangerous situations unscathed. Triggers randomly.
Zhao Ming raised an eyebrow. "Luck? So my life is going to be dictated by fate now?" He ran a hand through his hair, contemplating the meaning of this reward. A strength boost or a skill upgrade would have been preferable. Luck was unreliable¡ªit was like giving up control and trusting the unknown. "System," he muttered, "how exactly does this work?"
[Trigger conditions unknown. Activates when fate deems it necessary.]
Zhao Ming scoffed. "Helpful as always." With a sigh, he dismissed the panel. There was no use overthinking it. If fate wanted to throw him opportunities, he would simply take advantage of them. His stomach growled, interrupting his thoughts. Shaking his head, he pushed himself up and decided to find something to eat.
Stepping outside, Zhao Ming took in the fresh morning air. The village was slowly coming to life¡ªfarmers preparing for the day''s work, merchants loading their carts, and stray dogs sniffing around for scraps. He followed the scent of food to a small open-air stall near the village square. The vendor, an elderly woman, was busy serving steaming bowls of rice porridge and freshly steamed buns to a mix of travelers and locals. Some sat on rough wooden benches, chatting between bites, while others ate in silence, weary from their journeys. The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings. Zhao Ming took a seat at the end of a communal table. "One bowl of porridge and two steamed buns, please." The woman nodded and quickly filled a bowl for him. As he waited, he listened to the conversations around him. "Did you hear? Someone got kicked out of Anxi last night," a merchant muttered to his companion. "Hah! That city is a mess. The officials there are just as corrupt as the bandits outside the walls. No wonder people are fleeing." Zhao Ming smirked slightly. News traveled fast. He sipped his warm porridge, feeling the heat spread through his body. "I also heard the Yellow Turbans are getting restless again. A noble in the south is paying handsomely for warriors to fight against them." Zhao Ming''s ears perked up. Opportunities, indeed.
As he tore into a steamed bun, familiar voices rang out behind him. "Oi! You''re eating without us?" Zhang Fei''s loud voice boomed. Zhao Ming turned to see Liu Bei, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei approaching. The three of them looked well-rested but serious. Zhang Fei plopped down beside him, immediately calling out to the vendor. "Give me five buns! No, make it six!" Guan Yu shook his head in exasperation as he and Liu Bei took their seats. "One last meal together, at least." Zhao Ming smiled faintly. "Of course. Wouldn''t want you to go hungry." As they ate, the atmosphere remained light, but there was an unspoken weight in the air. Each of them knew this was farewell.
After the last sip of tea, Liu Bei set his cup down and looked at Zhao Ming. "I thought about it overnight. We will go north, as you suggested." Zhao Ming met his gaze. "It''s the safest path for now. The warlords in the north are still consolidating power. You''ll have better chances there." Guan Yu nodded. "A wise choice. We will gather allies where we can." Zhang Fei grinned. "Tch! Wherever we go, we''ll make a name for ourselves. Just you wait." Liu Bei extended his hand. "Thank you, Zhao Ming. If fate allows, our paths will cross again." Zhao Ming clasped it firmly. "I''m sure they will." With that, the three warriors stood and departed, disappearing into the bustling streets. Zhao Ming watched them go, a strange sense of emptiness settling in his chest.
Zhao Ming sighed and leaned back on the bench. "Now what?" He turned to a nearby villager, an elderly man resting beside a cart. "Excuse me, do you know where the nearest town is?" The man squinted at him before nodding. "That would be Penglai Town (ÅîÀ³Õò), northeast of here. It''s a merchant hub. Decent place if you¡¯re looking for work or information." Zhao Ming nodded in thanks. "How far is it?" "A day¡¯s walk, maybe less if you catch a ride with a merchant." Penglai Town. A new start.
Gathering his belongings, Zhao Ming made his way toward the northern road. It was well-traveled, lined with rolling hills and patches of dense forest. As he walked, he mulled over his options. He could find employment in Penglai, gather intelligence on the shifting political landscape, or seek out powerful figures to align with. The wind rustled through the trees, and he exhaled slowly. "Let''s see where fate takes me." With Fate¡¯s Favor lingering in the back of his mind, he stepped forward, ready for whatever awaited him on the road ahead. Chapter 20: A Journey Toward Penglai The sun hung high in the sky, casting its golden warmth over the dusty merchant road. Zhao Ming walked at a steady pace, his scholar¡¯s robes swaying slightly with each step. The sound of his boots crunching against the dry earth was the only company he had, aside from the occasional rustling of leaves carried by the wind. It had been hours since he left the village, and he had yet to see another traveler. The road ahead stretched endlessly, flanked by fields and patches of sparse woodland. He adjusted the cloth strap of his satchel, feeling the slight weight of his few belongings¡ªink, brushes, a few silver taels, and a small pouch of dried fruits he had purchased before leaving. ¡°This world is vast,¡± he muttered to himself, taking a deep breath. ¡°And I¡¯ve barely begun to explore it.¡± As he continued, a soft rumbling in his stomach reminded him that breakfast had long since passed. He looked ahead, hoping to spot a roadside stall or an inn, but all he saw was the road disappearing into the horizon. He sighed. "I should¡¯ve brought extra food." Then, in the distance, movement caught his eye¡ªa caravan, large and bustling with activity, moving at a steady pace down the road.
The caravan consisted of multiple carriages, each pulled by sturdy oxen. The goods they carried varied¡ªbundles of silk wrapped in protective cloth, crates of pottery stacked neatly, and sacks of grains piled onto wooden wagons. Guards, armed with swords and spears, rode on horseback, keeping a watchful eye on the surroundings. Zhao Ming approached cautiously, making sure to keep his hands visible to avoid suspicion. He could hear the chatter of merchants and laborers as they tended to their cargo. Just as he neared the first wagon, a guard stepped forward, blocking his path with a spear. The tip gleamed under the sun, its polished surface reflecting light sharply. ¡°Halt. Who are you?¡± the guard demanded, his eyes narrowing as he took in Zhao Ming¡¯s appearance. Zhao Ming stopped, raising his hands slightly to show he meant no harm. ¡°I am but a traveling scholar, heading toward Penglai. I saw your caravan and hoped to ask if I could accompany you for a short distance.¡± The guard studied him for a moment. His gaze trailed over Zhao Ming¡¯s rugged scholar attire¡ªworn but clean¡ªand his simple satchel. ¡°Traveling alone?¡± ¡°Yes,¡± Zhao Ming replied, nodding. ¡°The roads can be dangerous, so I thought it best to travel with others when possible.¡± The guard glanced toward one of the leading carriages, where a man dressed in finer armor sat atop a horse. After a brief exchange of glances, the armored man gave a slight nod. The guard turned back to Zhao Ming and stepped aside. Find this and other great novels on the author''s preferred platform. Support original creators! ¡°You can ride in the last carriage,¡± he said. ¡°But don¡¯t cause any trouble.¡± Zhao Ming bowed his head slightly in gratitude. ¡°Many thanks.¡±
Climbing onto the last carriage, Zhao Ming found himself seated among several young individuals. At first glance, they appeared to be no older than mid-teens, dressed in matching azure robes embroidered with the symbol of a dragon winding through clouds. His eyes lingered on the emblem, recognition flashing in his mind. ¡°Azure Dragon Sect,¡± he murmured under his breath. One of the disciples, a young man with short black hair, caught his gaze. ¡°You recognize our sect?¡± he asked, his tone carrying a hint of surprise. Zhao Ming smiled faintly. ¡°I¡¯ve come across a few disciples before.¡± He left the details vague, not wanting to mention Murong Xue or his past encounters. ¡°It¡¯s a well-respected name.¡± The young man nodded approvingly. ¡°We don¡¯t often meet scholars who know of us. Usually, it¡¯s mercenaries or officials who recognize the name.¡± Another disciple, a girl with a high ponytail, leaned forward. ¡°What brings you to Penglai?¡± she asked curiously. ¡°I seek knowledge and opportunities,¡± Zhao Ming answered smoothly. ¡°The world is vast, and I wish to see more of it.¡± The disciples exchanged glances, seemingly intrigued by his answer.
As the carriage swayed along the bumpy road, the conversation continued. ¡°So, are you a wandering scholar, or do you belong to a specific academy?¡± the ponytailed girl asked. ¡°I was once a student in Anxi,¡± Zhao Ming said carefully, avoiding specifics. ¡°But circumstances led me to travel on my own.¡± A male disciple with a serious expression nodded. ¡°That¡¯s admirable. Most scholars stay within their libraries and never experience the real world.¡± Zhao Ming chuckled. ¡°Books provide knowledge, but experience teaches wisdom.¡± The disciples murmured their agreement, seemingly warming up to him.
Zhao Ming decided to probe gently. ¡°Are you all heading to Penglai for a mission?¡± The ponytailed girl smirked. ¡°You know a lot for a scholar. Yes, we are, but we can¡¯t share the details.¡± Another girl, who had remained quiet until now, suddenly brightened. ¡°But we¡¯re fortunate this time! Senior Murong is leading the mission.¡± At the mention of the name, Zhao Ming¡¯s expression remained neutral, though his mind immediately recalled Murong Xue. The girls exchanged excited looks. ¡°Senior Murong is amazing,¡± one of them gushed. ¡°She¡¯s beautiful, skilled, and fearless. If I were a man, I¡¯d fall for her in an instant. No¡ªactually, even now, I already have!¡± A male disciple sighed dramatically. ¡°If she weren¡¯t out of our league, I¡¯d try my luck.¡± Laughter filled the carriage, the group lost in their admiration. Zhao Ming, keeping up his act, tilted his head slightly. ¡°She seems highly respected.¡± ¡°Of course!¡± the ponytailed girl said proudly. ¡°She¡¯s one of the most talented disciples of our sect. When she wields her sword, even veteran warriors hesitate.¡± Zhao Ming nodded along, pretending to be impressed while internally amused. He had seen Murong Xue in action before, and there was no doubt she was formidable. But hearing the disciples speak so highly of her added a new perspective.
As the conversation died down, Zhao Ming leaned back slightly, letting the rhythmic swaying of the carriage lull him into thought. He had come far since his arrival in this world¡ªescaping Anxi, crossing paths with Liu Bei, Guan Yu, and Zhang Fei, and now heading toward Penglai with a group of Azure Dragon Sect disciples. Would his journey always be this unpredictable? He sighed, watching the road stretch ahead. A sudden shout from the front of the caravan snapped him out of his thoughts. ¡°Penglai ahead!¡± Zhao Ming straightened, feeling anticipation build within him. The city loomed in the distance, its stone walls standing tall against the backdrop of rolling hills. A new chapter of his journey was about to begin. Chapter 21: Arrival in Penglai & Meeting Murong Xue The journey had been long, but as Zhao Ming sat atop the caravan, the sight of Penglai Town (ÅîÀ³Õò) emerging from the morning mist made the exhaustion worth it. The town, nestled between rolling hills and a sprawling coastline, was a sight to behold. Towering pagodas marked the skyline, their golden rooftops glinting under the sunlight. The grand walls of Penglai stood firm, with guards stationed at the gates, meticulously checking everyone who entered. As the caravan approached the checkpoint, the lead merchant, an older man named Lao Shen, raised his voice. "Alright, everyone, keep your documents ready! No delays! The guards here aren¡¯t the friendliest!" Zhao Ming observed as the guards, clad in polished armor, scrutinized each arrival. Some were Han officials, their embroidered robes denoting rank, while others were clearly mercenaries employed for extra security. One particular guard, a burly man with a scar across his cheek, eyed Zhao Ming for a moment before grunting and waving him through. Stepping into Penglai, Zhao Ming was immediately enveloped in a cacophony of sounds. Merchants hawked their wares loudly: "Fresh river fish! Just caught this morning!" "Silk from the south! Soft as a maiden¡¯s touch!" "Exotic herbs and powders! Even an old man will feel young again!" The hammering of blacksmiths rang through the air, and street performers danced, juggling flaming torches while a young woman played a guqin nearby. As Zhao Ming soaked in the atmosphere, a sudden commotion erupted. "Thief! That brat stole my pouch! Someone stop him!" A vendor shouted, pointing at a young boy darting through the crowd. Zhao Ming¡¯s eyes narrowed. With a subtle shift of his body, he stepped into the boy¡¯s path, sticking out a foot just enough to trip him. The boy tumbled, rolling on the ground before glaring up at Zhao Ming. "Tch! That was dirty, old man!" Zhao Ming smirked, kneeling beside him. "Old man? I ought to let you run just so you can get your eyesight checked. Now, hand over the pouch." The boy grumbled, tossing the pouch back to the vendor, who quickly snatched it. Before the vendor could start yelling again, Zhao Ming flicked a single copper coin to the boy. "Try earning money the right way." The boy scowled but pocketed the coin before disappearing into the crowd.
As Zhao Ming continued exploring, a small vendor caught his attention. The elderly shopkeeper displayed various accessories¡ªrings, bracelets, and hairpins. But among them, a jade bangle stood out. Using his [Insight], details flashed before his eyes:
Bangle: Lavender Jade, Rare and valuable Effect: Regulates body temperature Condition: Dirty
The merchant noticed his interest and immediately went into sales mode. "Ah, young master, you have excellent taste! This fine jade bangle is perfect for your lady! Only 2000 wen!" Zhao Ming scoffed. "2000 wen for something this dirty? I could carve a better one from a soup bone." The merchant feigned outrage. "Young master, you wound me! This is the purest jade! But because you have a keen eye, I¡¯ll lower it to 800 wen." Zhao Ming rubbed his chin. "500." "750!" "600." "Fine, 500!" the merchant grumbled, stuffing the bangle into a cloth before Zhao Ming handed over the coins. After leaving the stall, he wiped the bangle clean with his sleeve. The dirt fell away, revealing a beautiful lilac hue. As he touched it, a subtle warmth spread through his fingers. "Not bad," he muttered, tucking it into his sleeve.
Wandering further, Zhao Ming stumbled upon an interesting scene. A group of Azure Cloud Dragon disciples stood gathered, their leader, a striking young woman in traveling robes, engaged in a heated discussion with a rough-looking mercenary leader. Murong Xue. "I told you," Murong Xue¡¯s voice was calm but firm, "your group agreed to escort the goods safely, yet they were attacked on the way. If you cannot guarantee security, we will find another escort." The mercenary leader, a burly man with a thick beard, spat on the ground. "Lady Murong, we lost men in that ambush! We ain¡¯t working for free. Either you pay more, or we walk." Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings. Murong Xue¡¯s eyes narrowed. "Then walk." The mercenaries grumbled, exchanging glances, but they knew better than to push their luck with the Azure Cloud Dragon Sect. As the crowd dispersed, Murong Xue¡¯s gaze finally landed on Zhao Ming. Her eyes widened slightly before a smile curled her lips. "Zhao Ming? In Penglai? Didn¡¯t expect that. How was your time in Anxi?" Zhao Ming chuckled. "Long story." Murong Xue grabbed his wrist, dragging him forward. "Then come. You can tell me over tea." As they walked, a murmur spread among the Azure Cloud Dragon disciples. "Senior Murong Xue? Dragging a man?" "Who is he?" "I¡¯ve never seen her act like this before." "A new challenger has appeared..." one male disciple muttered dejectedly. Zhao Ming merely smirked as he let himself be pulled along.
Murong Xue¡¯s room was surprisingly modest despite her status. A lounge area connected to her bedroom, and she quickly poured tea as Zhao Ming recounted his adventures in Anxi. The conversation flowed easily, filled with wit and teasing remarks, but eventually, it turned serious. "My sect has been tasked with escorting valuable goods and investigating troubling activities at sea," Murong Xue explained, her expression darkening. "Pirate attacks have increased, and there are whispers of collusion with officials." She reached into a bundle and pulled out two weapons. One was a crossbow with an unknown mechanism, and the other was a long, curved single-edged sword, thin and foreign-looking. Zhao Ming¡¯s eyes narrowed as he examined the blade. "That¡¯s not a typical weapon from around here. Where did you find it?" "It washed ashore," Murong Xue said, setting it back down. "We¡¯re transporting these to Beihai for study. If they belong to an enemy force, we need to know who." Zhao Ming tapped the hilt thoughtfully. "This could be trouble." Murong Xue smirked. "What isn¡¯t?" For a moment, there was a lull in the conversation. Then, Zhao Ming reached into his sleeve and pulled out the bangle. "Here," he said, tilting his head slightly. "Put your hand forward." Murong Xue arched a brow. "Are you giving me a bracelet or arresting me?" "That depends," Zhao Ming said smoothly, taking her hand with deliberate slowness. "If you¡¯re guilty of stealing my attention, I might have to keep you under close watch." Murong Xue scoffed, but the corner of her lips curled slightly. "Hah. That¡¯s the weakest excuse for hand-holding I¡¯ve ever heard." "Yet, you¡¯re not pulling away," Zhao Ming teased, his fingers lightly tracing her wrist before sliding the bangle on. Murong Xue froze, her skin tingling at the contact. The jade emitted a faint glow as its warmth spread across her wrist, and for a fleeting moment, she felt a strange sense of calm. She stared at it, her usual sharp wit momentarily lost. "This is... beautiful." Zhao Ming smirked. "I thought you¡¯d like it. But if not, I can always take it back¡ª" Her hand clamped over his wrist in an instant. "Not a chance." Outside, a few disciples had gathered by the door, peeking in. One of them gasped, whispering urgently. "She¡¯s... blushing?! I¡ª I think I¡¯m going to faint!" Another disciple clutched their chest. "Our Senior Sister¡­ acting like a girl in love?! The heavens must be shifting!" Murong Xue shot a deadly glare toward the door, making them scatter like frightened rabbits. She turned back to Zhao Ming, who was watching with clear amusement. "You planned this, didn¡¯t you?" she accused. Zhao Ming raised his cup of tea, completely unbothered. "I have no idea what you mean. But if I did¡­ would you be mad?" Murong Xue exhaled sharply, shaking her head as she admired the bangle on her wrist. "Tch. Annoying." But her fingers ran over the smooth jade, lingering just a little longer than necessary. And Zhao Ming knew she wouldn¡¯t take it off.
That evening, Zhao Ming found himself seated at a large round table inside an elegant inn, the warm glow of lanterns casting flickering shadows on the wooden walls. The scent of roasted duck and spiced broth filled the air as servants moved around, filling cups with warm rice wine. Murong Xue sat beside him, idly swirling her drink. Across from them were two scholars in long robes, an official who had arrived late, and a man Zhao Ming had not seen before¡ªa broad-shouldered mercenary with sharp eyes and a sword resting against his chair. The official, still adjusting his seat, cleared his throat. "Apologies for my delay. There¡¯s been¡­ some changes in our arrangements." The mercenary gave a short nod. "Name¡¯s Gao Ren. I¡¯ll be leading the escort for the shipment. The previous group backed out at the last minute." His voice was gruff but steady. Murong Xue raised an eyebrow. "Backed out? Why?" Gao Ren scoffed. "Superstition. Said the route was cursed. That, or they were paid off to disappear." He took a sip of wine. "Either way, I don¡¯t scare easy." The scholars exchanged glances before one adjusted his spectacles. "The shipment contains artifacts and weapons that require study. More importantly, it''s likely to be a target for pirates." Gao Ren leaned back, tapping his fingers on the table. "Pirates, huh? That explains the generous pay. But pirates attacking inland shipments¡­ Seems odd." Zhao Ming swirled his cup, his eyes narrowing. "Either they have inside help, or they¡¯ve grown desperate." Murong Xue reached down and pulled a wrapped bundle onto the table. With a flick of her wrist, she unveiled a strange crossbow and a curved foreign blade. "We¡¯re transporting these to Beihai for examination," she explained. Gao Ren studied the weapons before letting out a low whistle. "That¡¯s not local craftsmanship. Looks expensive." The official rubbed his chin. "If these weapons belong to foreign forces, we may be dealing with more than just pirates." A brief silence fell over the table as the weight of the situation settled in. Then, Gao Ren chuckled and took another sip of wine. "Well," he said, cracking his knuckles. "If they want a fight, I say we give it to them." The tension in the air eased slightly as the official let out a tired sigh. "Let¡¯s hope it doesn¡¯t come to that, but we should be prepared for the worst." One of the scholars nodded. "We¡¯ll leave at first light in three days. That should give us enough time to finalize the preparations." Murong Xue leaned back in her chair, crossing her arms. "Then we¡¯ll meet again before departure. No surprises." Zhao Ming raised his cup. "To a successful journey, then." The others followed suit, and as the cups clinked together, the evening gradually shifted from tense discussions to lighter conversations, the warmth of the meal providing a brief respite before the challenges ahead.
After the meeting, Murong Xue arranged a room for Zhao Ming at the inn. Lying on the bed, Zhao Ming activated his system. Zhao Ming: "I¡¯ll join Murong Xue on this mission."
System: "Very well. System will take note of host''s choice and adjust accordingly."
Closing his eyes, Zhao Ming let out a breath. Tomorrow, the journey would begin. Chapter 22: A Journey Begins Zhao Ming took a deep breath as the system interface flickered before him. After confirming his decision to accompany Murong Xue, a new system quest appeared before his eyes.
Quest: Accompany Murong Xue, guard the goods, and ensure her safety. Hint: Visit the market.
His eyes narrowed. This wasn''t just a casual trip; there was real danger ahead. Bandits, storms, and the unpredictable nature of the sea could all pose a threat. However, something felt different this time. A second notification appeared below the quest details.
Difficulty Adjustment: Increased. Reason: Early Decision.
Zhao Ming¡¯s stomach sank slightly. So, the system had judged his early choice as something that would make the journey harder. Perhaps if he had delayed or refused, the circumstances would have changed. But now, he had locked himself into a path where greater obstacles awaited him. If the system itself issued a difficulty increase, then he had to take this even more seriously. He clenched his fists. There was no turning back now¡ªonly forward. With that realization, Zhao Ming knew he needed to prepare meticulously. He outlined contingency plans, reinforcing the importance of vigilance. After finalizing the preparations, he headed to the dining area for a quick breakfast before the long day ahead, his mind already racing with strategies to counter the unknown trials to come. He immediately went to find the Azure Dragon Sect disciples for a briefing, ensuring they were fully aware of the potential dangers.
By the time Zhao Ming arrived, the disciples were already gathered in the dining hall. Murong Xue, ever composed, gestured for him to sit beside her. He hesitated for a brief moment before taking the seat, feeling the curious glances of the others. "Good morning, everyone," Zhao Ming greeted with a nod. Some disciples returned the greeting, while others exchanged glances and whispered among themselves. "Did you see how she asked him to sit beside her?" "Do you think something is going on between them?" "No way, he''s just a newcomer... isn''t he?" One sharp look from Murong Xue was enough to silence them. She cleared her throat. "In three days, we will board a ship to Beihai. I expect everyone to be fully prepared. Gather your supplies, weapons, and anything else you may need. We don¡¯t know what dangers await us. The sea is unpredictable, and we must be ready for potential threats, whether from nature or those who seek to harm us. Ensure you have rations, medicine, and extra garments. I will personally inspect everyone''s gear before departure." Zhao Ming leaned forward slightly. "I also suggest we train in formation drills. If we do encounter trouble, we need to be able to respond as a unit. Additionally, for those who have never traveled by sea, be aware that seasickness can be an issue. It might be worth securing some medicine in advance." Murong Xue nodded approvingly. "That is a good point. Everyone, heed his advice. Also, maintain discipline at all times¡ªanyone who slacks off will answer to me." The disciples nodded in unison, determination filling their expressions. With that, the meal continued with lively chatter. Some disciples exchanged strategies for handling potential threats, while others speculated about the journey ahead. "I heard Beihai has fierce warriors," one remarked. "If we do encounter trouble, we¡¯ll be ready," another said confidently. Laughter and spirited discussions filled the hall, the tension of earlier moments easing into a shared sense of camaraderie.
After finishing his meal, Zhao Ming turned to Murong Xue. "I¡¯m heading to the market to buy supplies. Do you need anything?" Murong Xue shook her head. "No, I will coordinate preparations with the others. Make sure you get enough provisions for the journey. We don¡¯t know what might happen on the way." Zhao Ming nodded. "Understood. I¡¯ll be thorough. If I find anything useful, I¡¯ll let you know." As Zhao Ming stood to leave, one of the female disciples smirked. "Senior Sister, wouldn¡¯t it be better if you accompanied him? It¡¯s practically a date." Another disciple chimed in, grinning. "Right? It would be a shame if he got lost in the crowd. Who knows? Maybe Senior Sister would enjoy a peaceful walk through the market with him." This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version. Murong Xue stiffened, a faint blush creeping onto her cheeks. "Enough nonsense! We have important matters to attend to. Hurry and prepare!" The teasing disciple giggled. "Yes, yes, Senior Sister. We¡¯ll make sure everything is in order. But if you change your mind, let us know!" Another disciple chuckled. "Come on, let¡¯s not push too much, or she might actually throw us into extra training." Murong Xue sighed, crossing her arms. "If you all have the energy to joke around, then you certainly have the energy to double-check our supplies. Don¡¯t let me find any mistakes." The disciples quickly straightened up, offering hurried bows before scattering to complete their tasks. Zhao Ming smiled slightly, amused by the exchange, before heading toward the market with a confident stride.
The market was bustling with merchants shouting out their wares, customers haggling over prices, and the rich scent of spices lingering in the air. Zhao Ming navigated through the crowd, stopping by a dried goods vendor. "How much for a sack of dried food?" he asked. "Three silver taels," the vendor replied smoothly. Zhao Ming scoffed. "Three? For this quality? Two taels, and that¡¯s generous." The vendor raised an eyebrow. "Two and five, young master. Prices have risen with the recent storms disrupting shipments." Zhao Ming shook his head. "Two taels, and I¡¯ll take some dried fish and other essentials as well. Otherwise, I¡¯ll find another stall." The vendor hesitated before sighing. "Fine, two taels, but you drive a hard bargain." Satisfied, Zhao Ming paid and continued through the market, purchasing fresh water and other essentials while skillfully negotiating better prices at every stop. While collecting his supplies, he noticed a group of sailors chatting nearby. Taking the opportunity, he approached them. "Excuse me, I¡¯ll be sailing soon. Do you have any advice on what I should bring?" One of the older sailors chuckled. "If you¡¯re not used to sailing, you¡¯ll need medicine for seasickness. Many first-timers get sick the moment the waves get rough." Another sailor, a burly man with a scar across his cheek, nodded. "Aye, and keep an eye on your belongings. There have been reports of pirates lurking near the trade routes. They target lightly guarded merchant ships." A younger sailor leaned in, lowering his voice. "The waters have been rough lately. Strong winds and unpredictable storms. Make sure your crew secures everything on deck, or you¡¯ll lose more than just your lunch." Zhao Ming frowned slightly. "Pirates and storms, huh? Any advice on dealing with them?" The older sailor stroked his beard. "For storms, listen to your captain and stay low when the waves get high. As for pirates, if you¡¯re unlucky enough to meet them, either pay them off or pray your ship is faster than theirs. Fighting isn¡¯t usually an option unless you have seasoned warriors on board." Zhao Ming absorbed their words, nodding in appreciation. "Thanks for the warnings. I¡¯ll be sure to prepare." One of the sailors gestured toward a nearby vendor¡¯s stall. "See that stall with the blue canopy? That¡¯s where you¡¯ll find the medicine woman. She¡¯ll have remedies for seasickness and anything else you might need." Zhao Ming thanked them before making his way toward the vendor¡¯s stall.
The scent of herbs filled the air as Zhao Ming entered the small medicine shop. Shelves lined the walls, each stacked with neatly labeled jars and bundles of dried plants. Dried roots hung from the ceiling, their earthy aroma mixing with the sharp tang of medicinal powders. Behind the counter stood a woman in her mid-40s, her sharp eyes assessing him the moment he stepped inside. Her graying hair was neatly tied back, and her hands bore the telltale stains of years spent handling herbs. Without warning, she plucked a herb from a nearby shelf and held it up. "If you can name this herb and its uses, I¡¯ll consider selling you my best medicine. If not, leave." Zhao Ming frowned at the sudden test but activated **Insight**. Information flooded his mind, and he answered without hesitation. "That is Bai Zhu. It strengthens the spleen and helps with digestion. It is often used to treat weakness and excessive dampness in the body." The woman studied him for a moment before nodding approvingly. "You pass. But tell me, where did you learn about herbs?" Her tone was softer now, but there was a trace of curiosity in her gaze. "I''ve read a few books on medicine," Zhao Ming replied vaguely, unwilling to explain his system¡¯s abilities. The woman raised an eyebrow but didn''t press further. Instead, she gestured toward the shelves behind her. "If you''re sailing, you¡¯ll need more than just medicine for seasickness. The sea air is damp and can weaken the body. Here, take some dried ginger and perilla leaf¡ªthese will help warm the stomach. And if you encounter injuries, this wound paste is one of my best formulations." Zhao Ming picked up a small clay jar and inspected it. "What¡¯s in this paste?" "Golden thread, dragon¡¯s blood resin, and a mix of secret ingredients I won¡¯t be sharing with you," she said with a smirk. Zhao Ming chuckled, appreciating her straightforwardness. "Fair enough. How much for all of this?" The woman crossed her arms. "A smart young man like you should know¡ªgood medicine isn¡¯t cheap. Five silver taels." He clicked his tongue. "Five? That¡¯s a bit much. Three taels." The woman scoffed. "Three? You might as well ask me to give it to you for free. Four taels, and I¡¯ll throw in a few extra herbs for brewing tea to ease fatigue." Zhao Ming thought for a moment before nodding. "Deal." To his surprise, her expression softened further. "It¡¯s rare to see young people with knowledge of medicine. Would you like to learn more? If so, come with me to the preparation room." Zhao Ming hesitated but saw no harm in gaining additional knowledge. "Alright." She led him to a back room filled with grinding stones, mortars, and bowls filled with freshly cut herbs. As she demonstrated different preparation techniques, Zhao Ming listened intently, unaware that this meeting would soon change his journey in ways he never expected. Chapter 23: The Medicine Trial Zhao Ming followed the medicine lady into the preparation room, his curiosity growing. The room was dimly lit, illuminated only by a few flickering oil lamps. Shelves lined the walls, packed with dried herbs, glass jars filled with mysterious liquids, and ancient scrolls. The scent of medicinal ingredients filled the air, earthy and slightly bitter, mingling with the faint aroma of burning incense. The woman moved with practiced grace, each step deliberate, as if she had spent a lifetime among these remedies. Her robes, though plain, bore faint embroidery of medicinal plants¡ªwormwood, ginseng, and peony¡ªstitched with meticulous care. She turned to him, her sharp eyes scrutinizing him like a patient under diagnosis. Despite her age, there was an air of strength about her, as if she had seen and endured much in her lifetime. There were callouses on her hands, marks of years spent grinding herbs and preparing medicine, yet her fingers remained steady, precise. ¡°You passed the first test, but learning medicine requires steady hands and a sharp mind,¡± she said, placing a mortar and pestle before him. Her voice was neither warm nor unkind¡ªjust firm, like a seasoned teacher testing a student¡¯s potential. Zhao Ming¡¯s attention was drawn to a deep crimson birthmark shaped like a lotus flower on the left side of her cheek. It stood out starkly against her pale skin, making her face both unique and intimidating. There was something about it, something that felt oddly familiar, though he couldn¡¯t place why. For a brief moment, a shadow crossed her expression, as if she had noticed his gaze and knew the unspoken questions forming in his mind. But instead of addressing it, she merely gave him a knowing look, one that carried a weight of history untold. "Well? Are you going to stare all day, or are you ready to prove yourself?" she said, arching a brow. Zhao Ming straightened, pushing aside his curiosity. Whatever story lay behind that birthmark, he would have to earn the right to hear it.
The woman handed Zhao Ming a bundle of dried herbs, their brittle texture indicating they had been cured for preservation. The faint scent of ginseng and angelica root mixed in the air as she placed them in front of him. ¡°Grind these into a fine powder without losing their essence,¡± she instructed, her tone leaving no room for hesitation. Zhao Ming activated Insight, and a flood of information filled his mind. He quickly learned that the right technique required controlled force¡ªtoo much pressure would crush the herbs and release their essential oils too soon, while too little would result in an uneven grind, making the medicine ineffective. He placed the herbs into the mortar and began grinding with circular motions, but the moment he applied pressure, the brittle leaves crumbled too quickly. A small cloud of herbal dust rose into the air, making him cough. ¡°Too rough,¡± the woman commented, arms crossed. ¡°You¡¯re not crushing stones. Medicine requires patience.¡± Zhao Ming adjusted his grip and tried again, but this time, he was too gentle, barely making progress. His movements were hesitant, unsure. He ground for a minute, then checked the consistency. Some pieces were still too large, while others had turned into near-powder. The woman let out a quiet sigh. ¡°Balance, boy. Do you think medicine is about rushing? If your grind is uneven, the medicine won¡¯t mix properly. Start over.¡± Zhao Ming inhaled deeply, steadying himself. He emptied the mortar, carefully brushing out any uneven remains, then picked up a fresh batch of herbs. This time, he paid close attention to the rhythm, using Insight to refine his technique. Slow, steady movements. A slight twist of the wrist. He adjusted the angle, feeling the resistance as the herbs broke down under controlled pressure. The aroma intensified as he worked, the essence being drawn out gradually. Minutes passed, and his arms began to ache, but he didn¡¯t stop. He finally lifted the mortar and examined the powder¡ªfine, even, without unnecessary oil loss. He presented it to the woman, his breath slightly uneven from the effort. She examined it with a critical eye, rubbing a pinch of the powder between her fingers. It was not perfect, but it was acceptable. ¡°Barely passable,¡± she muttered, before nodding. ¡°But at least you learned something.¡± Zhao Ming exhaled in relief, but before he could relax, she pushed another set of ingredients toward him. ¡°Again.¡± His shoulders slumped, but he tightened his grip on the pestle. If nothing else, he was going to prove himself¡ªeven if his arms felt like they were about to fall off.
Without a word, the woman placed three different powdered medicines in front of Zhao Ming, each in a small porcelain dish. Their colors ranged from pale green to deep brown, with faint herbal aromas drifting into the air. She folded her arms, watching him closely. ¡°Identify their composition,¡± she said simply. Zhao Ming activated Insight, and information immediately flooded his mind. His vision sharpened, and he could almost see the individual components breaking apart within each powder¡ªtheir properties, uses, and interactions forming a web of knowledge in his mind. He leaned in, picking up a pinch of the first powder and rubbing it between his fingers. The texture was slightly coarse, and the scent was familiar¡ªearthy, with a hint of citrus. ¡°The first one contains Bai Zhu, to strengthen the spleen, and Chen Pi, which aids digestion and prevents stagnation,¡± he said with confidence. ¡°It¡¯s likely used for treating bloating and weak appetite.¡± The woman said nothing, only arching an eyebrow as she gestured toward the second powder. Zhao Ming studied it carefully. It was lighter in texture, almost fluffy, and had a slightly musty scent. He took a careful whiff, recognizing the distinct properties of two herbs. ¡°The second is a mixture of Fu Ling and Ban Xia,¡± he continued. ¡°Fu Ling helps drain dampness and supports the spleen, while Ban Xia is used for nausea and clearing phlegm. Together, they work to regulate water metabolism and prevent vomiting.¡± Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site. A small flicker of approval crossed the woman¡¯s face, though she remained silent. Now, the final powder. It was the darkest of the three, fine and smooth, with a faint mineral-like quality to its scent. Zhao Ming hesitated for a moment before recognizing the key ingredients. ¡°This one¡­ is a variation of a calming powder,¡± he said slowly. ¡°It contains Suan Zao Ren, which nourishes the heart and calms the spirit, and Long Gu, which is often used to suppress anxiety and promote sleep.¡± He looked up, waiting for her reaction. The woman smirked, though her expression remained guarded. ¡°Not bad,¡± she admitted, tapping the edge of one dish with her fingernail. ¡°Your Insight ability is certainly useful, but true medicine isn¡¯t just about knowing names and effects. It¡¯s about understanding how to blend them in the right proportions. Can you combine them properly?¡± She slid a sheet of parchment toward him with a set of symptoms hastily written in neat, slanted strokes: Dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and heart palpitations. Zhao Ming frowned, analyzing the symptoms carefully. Each powder had useful components, but using them incorrectly could throw off the balance. Too much Fu Ling might over-drain fluids. Excess Ban Xia could irritate the stomach. Long Gu, if not prepared well, could be too heavy on digestion. He took a deep breath and began measuring. First, he took a small portion of the Bai Zhu and Chen Pi mixture¡ªthis would help stabilize the spleen and aid digestion, preventing further weakness. Then, a moderate amount of Fu Ling and Ban Xia, just enough to clear dampness without over-drying the body¡¯s fluids. Finally, he added a precise pinch of Suan Zao Ren, just enough to calm the heart without making the person too drowsy. The woman watched in silence as he worked. Zhao Ming carefully mixed the powders, ensuring even distribution, then handed the final blend to her. She inspected the mixture, running it between her fingers, and then nodded. ¡°Acceptable,¡± she said. ¡°You adjusted for the person¡¯s condition instead of just dumping the herbs together blindly. That¡¯s the difference between knowledge and understanding.¡± Zhao Ming exhaled, feeling a small wave of relief. But before he could savor the moment, the woman¡¯s smirk returned. ¡°Now, let¡¯s see how well you do with a real patient.¡± She turned toward the door and called out, ¡°Bring him in.¡± Zhao Ming¡¯s eyes narrowed as he straightened his back. The real test was just beginning.
From the side of the room, a young boy was led forward by an apprentice. He couldn¡¯t have been older than seven or eight, his frail body trembling slightly as he was guided to a low stool. His skin was pallid, and a thin sheen of sweat clung to his forehead. His breaths came shallow and uneven, his chest rising and falling with effort. Zhao Ming immediately crouched beside him, concern flashing in his eyes. The boy¡¯s eyelids fluttered open sluggishly, but his gaze was unfocused, as though he was barely aware of his surroundings. ¡°He has mild poisoning,¡± the woman stated calmly, arms crossed. ¡°Treat him.¡± Zhao Ming swallowed his initial panic and activated Insight. Information flooded his mind, analyzing the boy¡¯s condition. His pulse was weak but rapid, his lips slightly dry, and his stomach emitted faint gurgling sounds. These signs pointed to food poisoning¡ªlikely from spoiled or contaminated food. If left untreated, dehydration and further organ strain would follow. Zhao Ming¡¯s mind worked quickly. He needed to expel the toxins, soothe the stomach, and restore lost energy¡ªbut in the right order. Treating one symptom while ignoring another could worsen the condition. He turned to the shelves, scanning the array of herbs before selecting Hou Po and Huang Lian. Hou Po would help relieve food stagnation and clear dampness, easing the bloating and discomfort. Huang Lian, known for its bitter and potent properties, would neutralize toxins and prevent further complications. As he worked, the woman observed him silently. She didn¡¯t interrupt, but her sharp eyes followed every movement, judging his skill and decision-making. Zhao Ming ground the herbs quickly, mixing them into a small bowl of warm water. The bitter scent filled the air as he stirred, ensuring the medicine dissolved properly. ¡°Drink this,¡± he said gently, helping the boy lift the bowl to his lips. The child flinched at the bitterness but managed to sip it down, his body too weak to resist. Zhao Ming supported his back, ensuring he didn¡¯t choke. Minutes passed. The room was silent except for the faint crackling of the oil lamps and the rhythmic grinding of herbs in the background. Then, the boy¡¯s breathing steadied. His complexion, though still pale, gained a hint of warmth. He blinked a few times, his once-glassy eyes now clearer. His small fingers curled slightly, regaining strength. He swallowed and looked up at Zhao Ming with gratitude. The woman let out a low chuckle. ¡°Looks like I made the right choice.¡± Zhao Ming turned to her, still watching the boy carefully. ¡°It worked, but he¡¯ll need something mild to restore his energy. Perhaps a light porridge with medicinal roots.¡± The woman nodded approvingly. ¡°You¡¯re learning.¡± She walked over to a wooden box, her fingers brushing against its aged surface before pulling it open. Inside, various herbs lay bundled neatly, their scents blending into an earthy, complex aroma. She took out a small pouch and tossed it to Zhao Ming. ¡°A gift. Inside are rare herbs¡ªuse them wisely. Some of these you won¡¯t find in common apothecaries.¡± Zhao Ming caught the pouch and glanced inside. He recognized a few¡ªLing Zhi for vitality, Tian Ma for circulation¡ªbut there were others he couldn¡¯t identify yet. He looked back at her, curiosity flickering in his gaze. ¡°Why help me? You don¡¯t seem like the type to give out gifts easily.¡± The woman smirked but said nothing for a long moment. Then, she slowly pulled back her sleeve, revealing something on her forearm¡ªa faint crimson lotus birthmark, eerily similar to the one on her cheek. Zhao Ming¡¯s breath hitched. Something about it felt significant. A legend he had yet to uncover? A connection to an unknown past? She studied his expression, as if gauging his thoughts. ¡°Come back when you want to learn more,¡± she said simply, giving him a final, knowing look. Zhao Ming hesitated but nodded. With the pouch secured, he turned and stepped back into the bustling market. The scent of spices and roasted meat greeted him, mingling with the lively chatter of merchants. He exhaled, letting the cool night air clear his mind. With new knowledge and supplies, it was time to return and prepare for the voyage ahead. But one thing lingered in his thoughts¡ªthe crimson lotus birthmark and what it truly meant.
Zhao Ming stepped back into the bustling market, the scent of fresh produce and sizzling street food replacing the herbal aroma of Madam Yue¡¯s shop. He adjusted the pouch of rare herbs at his waist, deep in thought about everything he had learned. Then, a familiar chime echoed in his mind.
System Notification: Fame 130+50 Madam Yue has acknowledged your skill. She is considering taking you as her apprentice. New Quest Unlocked: A Path to Medicine¡ªEarn Madam Yue¡¯s Trust. Reward:
Zhao Ming¡¯s steps slowed as he processed the message. The rewards were intriguing¡ªmedical knowledge and efficiency in crafting medicine would be invaluable in both survival and future endeavors. But what was the hidden reward? ¡°So, she really is testing me,¡± he murmured. His fingers absentmindedly brushed against the pouch of herbs. Madam Yue was no ordinary medicine woman¡ªher sharp eyes, the way she carried herself, and that crimson lotus birthmark on her cheek¡­ something about her felt familiar yet mysterious. ¡°Who exactly is Madam Yue?¡± he muttered to himself. A merchant overheard him and chuckled. ¡°Ah, lad, you¡¯ve met the Ghost Lotus, haven¡¯t you?¡± Zhao Ming turned sharply. ¡°Ghost Lotus?¡± The merchant grinned. ¡°That¡¯s what some folks call her. They say she once served in the imperial court as a physician, but she vanished after a scandal. Now, she only takes in a handful of students¡ªif they¡¯re lucky.¡± An imperial physician? That explained her vast knowledge, but if the rumors were true, why was she here, hiding in a small apothecary? With a renewed sense of purpose, he straightened his back and walked forward. There was much to prepare for¡ªthe voyage ahead, his training, and now, the opportunity to uncover the secrets of Madam Yue. Chapter 24: The Day Before Departure The first light of dawn seeped through the wooden lattice windows, casting soft golden hues across the room. Zhao Ming stirred awake, his body already accustomed to the early hours. Blinking away the remnants of sleep, he sat up and reached for the small satchel beside his bed. He unraveled its contents, methodically checking each item. Spare clothes, a flint for fire, dried rations, a short dagger for self-defense, and a few taels of silver tucked away in a hidden pouch¡ªeverything was in order. His gaze shifted to the medicine pouch given by the enigmatic woman at the shop. Loosening the drawstrings, he examined the dried herbs inside. Some were familiar¡ªginseng, safflower, dried honeysuckle. But a few were completely unknown to him. He pinched a dark green leaf between his fingers, noting its faint medicinal scent. What was its purpose? Why had she included it? At that moment, Insight activated. A translucent notification flickered in his vision.
[Insight Activated] Item Identified: Y¨¢nlu¨° Leaf Effects: Neutralizes common poisons, aids in blood circulation.
Zhao Ming¡¯s fingers tightened around the leaf. Antidote? His thoughts drifted back to the woman¡¯s knowing gaze. Had she foreseen something? Or was this merely a precaution? He curled his fingers around the pouch as he recalled her face¡ªsharp yet calm, her expression unreadable. But it wasn¡¯t her words nor her actions that unsettled him most. It was the crimson lotus birthmark just beneath her left eye. Zhao Ming exhaled slowly, tying the pouch shut. "Who exactly is she?" The question lingered in his mind as he fastened his belt and stood. There was no time for hesitation. The journey ahead awaited, and mysteries could always be unraveled in time.
The courtyard of the Azure Dragon Sect bustled with activity as disciples honed their skills under the morning sun. The rhythmic clash of wooden swords and the sharp echoes of footwork filled the air. Murong Xue stood with her arms crossed, her sharp gaze scanning the training grounds before settling on Zhao Ming. ¡°Before we set sail, you should test yourself against our disciples,¡± she said. ¡°It will sharpen your reflexes.¡± Zhao Ming nodded. He had been training on his own, but a real fight was different. Facing skilled opponents would reveal his weaknesses. A senior disciple stepped forward. He was lean, his stance relaxed yet full of confidence. ¡°I¡¯ll be your opponent,¡± he said, twirling a wooden staff in his hands. ¡°Let¡¯s see what you¡¯ve got.¡± The moment the match began, the disciple moved like the wind. Zhao Ming barely had time to react as the staff blurred toward him. He dodged, but the second strike followed almost instantly, forcing him back. The speed was overwhelming. He gritted his teeth. Focus. Watch his rhythm. The disciple struck again, but this time, Zhao Ming didn¡¯t just evade¡ªhe observed. The way his opponent shifted his weight, the slight pause before each attack¡­ there was a pattern. He adjusted his stance, waiting. The next strike came¡ªa downward swing. Zhao Ming sidestepped at the last moment and countered, his palm striking the disciple¡¯s wrist, throwing off his grip. In the next instant, he stepped in and landed a clean strike to the opponent¡¯s chest. A hush fell over the watching disciples. Then, murmurs of approval spread among them. The senior disciple rubbed his chest, then grinned. ¡°Not bad,¡± he admitted. ¡°You learn fast.¡± Murong Xue, standing at the edge of the courtyard, smirked slightly. ¡°At least you won¡¯t embarrass yourself on the journey,¡± she teased. Zhao Ming exhaled, feeling a rush of satisfaction. He was improving¡ªbut this was only the beginning.
With the preparations complete, Murong Xue allowed the disciples some free time before their departure. The bustling streets of the coastal city beckoned, filled with the scent of freshly baked pastries, sizzling skewers, and the rhythmic calls of merchants advertising their wares. Yet, instead of scattering, a group of female disciples lingered, exchanging knowing glances before turning to Murong Xue with barely contained amusement. The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident. "Senior Sister," one of them grinned, "since we have time, why not take a stroll with Young Master Zhao?" Murong Xue arched a brow. "Why would I¡ª" "Oh, don¡¯t be shy!" Another disciple giggled. "You¡¯ve been watching over him so diligently. A little walk won¡¯t hurt." "We even heard there''s a teahouse with a beautiful sea view. Perfect for¡ª" "Enough." Murong Xue sighed, rubbing her temples as the disciples snickered. She glanced at Zhao Ming, who remained unbothered by the commotion. "...Fine," she muttered. "Just a walk." Satisfied with their victory, the disciples beamed as they watched the two depart together.
The high-class teahouse stood atop a small hill, overlooking the endless blue expanse of the Beihai Sea. Lanterns swayed gently in the breeze, and the faint sound of a guqin played softly in the background. Inside, wealthy merchants and scholars conversed over fine porcelain cups, their voices mingling with the aroma of premium tea leaves. Zhao Ming and Murong Xue were led to a private balcony. As the tea was poured, Murong Xue seemed at ease, gazing out at the horizon, the sunlight catching the faint golden embroidery on her robes. Zhao Ming, however, was more focused on the hushed conversation from the table nearby. "...A whole ship, wrecked just like that. No survivors." "Some say it was a sudden storm, but I tell you¡ª" the sailor¡¯s voice lowered, "¡ªit wasn¡¯t the weather." Another scoffed. "A storm? Hah! The truth is worse. Pirates attacked it." Zhao Ming subtly shifted in his seat, listening more intently. "The Sea Serpent Crew," the sailor continued in a grim tone. "They strike without warning, leaving nothing behind. Slaughtered the entire crew and looted everything." "Aren¡¯t they just rumors?" "They were rumors until last month. Now, they say the bastards are still lurking in the Beihai Sea, waiting for their next prey." "Did they just want gold?" "Gold? No. They¡¯re looking for something," the sailor muttered. "Something important. No one knows what it is, but whatever they don¡¯t find, they burn. And whoever stands in their way¡ª" He dragged a finger across his throat, mimicking a slow cut. Zhao Ming took a slow sip of tea, his mind sharpening. Pirates... and they¡¯re after something. If this was true, their voyage might not just be a battle against the sea¡ªbut against men far more ruthless.
After leaving the teahouse, Zhao Ming and Murong Xue made their way through the lively streets, weaving past vendors and townsfolk. Their destination was the medicine shop where Zhao Ming had received the mysterious pouch of herbs. Yet, as they arrived, they were met with an unsettling sight. The shop was closed. Not just closed¡ªbut completely abandoned. The wooden shutters were firmly shut, the door locked, and dust had begun to gather on the doorstep as if no one had entered in days. Murong Xue frowned. ¡°Are you sure this is the place?¡± Zhao Ming nodded, his eyes scanning the faded signboard above. It was here. I¡¯m certain. He stepped forward and knocked. No answer. He tried again¡ªsilence. There were no signs of life within. Murong Xue ran her fingers along the wooden frame. ¡°This place¡­ it looks like it hasn¡¯t been opened for a long time.¡± That was impossible. He had been here just yesterday. His gaze drifted downward, and something caught his attention¡ªan engraving on the doorframe. It was small and subtle, almost unnoticeable, yet deliberate. A lotus flower. His eyes narrowed. The symbol reminded him of the crimson lotus birthmark on the woman¡¯s face. Was this her mark? Just as he was about to touch it, a raspy voice interrupted. ¡°You two¡­¡± They turned to see an old beggar hunched nearby, his tattered robes barely clinging to his thin frame. His milky-white eyes flickered with something close to amusement. ¡°That shop appears¡­ and disappears.¡± The beggar chuckled. ¡°You were lucky to meet her.¡± Zhao Ming and Murong Xue exchanged glances. Zhao Ming took a step forward. ¡°You know the woman who owns this shop?¡± The beggar merely grinned, revealing a set of missing teeth. ¡°Hah¡­ who she is, what she is¡­ does it matter?¡± He cackled before waving them off. ¡°Forget it, young ones. Not everything in this world needs to be understood.¡± And with that, he turned and hobbled away, leaving Zhao Ming with more questions than answers. Murong Xue crossed her arms. ¡°It seems we stumbled into something strange.¡± Zhao Ming¡¯s fingers tightened around the medicine pouch at his waist. Strange, indeed.
Still unsettled by the beggar¡¯s cryptic words, Zhao Ming and Murong Xue walked through the city streets, letting the bustling atmosphere push away their lingering thoughts. The marketplace was still alive with activity. Merchants called out their wares, enticing customers with promises of the finest silk, rare spices, and fragrant teas. The scent of freshly grilled skewers filled the air, mingling with the aroma of sweet pastries. Murong Xue stopped by a stall selling sesame-stuffed rice cakes, her gaze lingering for a moment before she casually glanced at Zhao Ming. He sighed. ¡°Just say you want one.¡± She scoffed but didn''t refuse when he handed over a few coins to the vendor. Taking a bite, she gave him a satisfied nod. ¡°You have good taste.¡± Zhao Ming chuckled but said nothing, instead grabbing a skewer of grilled lamb for himself. For a while, they simply enjoyed the walk, taking in the sights and sounds of the city one last time before their departure. As the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting long shadows over the streets, they finally made their way back to the inn. Inside, the air was quiet, the other disciples already resting in preparation for the long journey ahead. Zhao Ming set down his belongings and sat by the window, gazing at the darkening sky. Murong Xue leaned against the doorway. ¡°You should rest. Tomorrow will be a long day.¡± He nodded. ¡°You too.¡± Without another word, she left for her room. Zhao Ming lay back on the bed, the faint scent of ink and parchment in the air. Despite his exhaustion, his mind kept circling back to the medicine woman, the pirates, and the unknown dangers waiting beyond the Beihai Sea. His grip tightened around the medicine pouch at his waist. Whatever awaits¡­ I will be ready. With that final thought, he closed his eyes and let sleep take him. Chapter 25: Voyage to Beihai Begins The world was still veiled in the hush of early morning, the air thick with a lingering mist that clung to the docks like a restless spirit. The sky, a deep shade of indigo, carried the last whispers of night, with only the faintest hint of dawn peeking over the horizon. It was the hour of Mao (îʱ), between 5 and 7 a.m., but the harbor was already alive with activity. Zhao Ming stepped onto the damp wooden planks of the dock, his breath visible in the cold air. Around him, lanterns flickered, their golden glow illuminating the bustling figures of sailors and merchants. The scent of salt, damp wood, and fish filled his nostrils as workers hurried to load cargo onto the massive vessel moored before them¡ªa large merchant ship bound for Beihai. The ship itself was an imposing sight, its dark wooden hull sturdy and well-maintained. Thick ropes secured it to the dock, creaking under the strain as waves lapped against its side. Crates of silk, barrels of rice wine, and sacks of dried herbs were being hoisted aboard, while passengers¡ªmerchants, scholars, and a few travelers¡ªwaited patiently for embarkation. Murong Xue stood at the foot of the gangplank, speaking with the ship¡¯s quartermaster to finalize their arrangements. She moved with practiced ease, her authoritative presence ensuring that her sect¡¯s accommodations were in order. Meanwhile, Zhao Ming¡¯s gaze wandered toward a group of men already aboard¡ªthe mercenaries. Gao Ren, the leader of the hired blades, was a mountain of a man, clad in dark, weathered armor. He leaned casually against the ship¡¯s railing, his arms crossed as he surveyed the activity below. His men, already settled, were sharpening weapons or adjusting their gear. Their presence was a silent reminder that this voyage might not be a peaceful one. Beyond them, Zhao Ming caught sight of a few robed scholars conversing among themselves. Unlike the warriors, they seemed lost in their own discussions, completely at ease despite the unknown dangers of the sea. As he made his way toward the gangplank, something else caught his attention. Near a stack of cargo, a few sailors were huddled in hushed conversation with a pair of hooded passengers. The figures were cloaked in dark fabric, their faces obscured by the early morning gloom. The exchange was brief, and as soon as it ended, the hooded figures slipped aboard the ship without a word. Zhao Ming narrowed his eyes. Something about them felt¡­ off. Before he could dwell on it further, a horn sounded, signaling the final call for departure. The last of the cargo was secured, the sails unfurled, and the ropes untied. With a slow, steady motion, the massive ship drifted away from the docks. As the first rays of the sun pierced through the mist, Zhao Ming stood at the deck, watching the harbor fade into the distance. The journey to Beihai had begun.
The ship rocked gently as it sailed across the calm waters, the early morning mist gradually thinning under the rising sun. Zhao Ming walked along the deck, taking in the details of the vessel. The ship was a well-built merchant vessel, large enough to carry both cargo and passengers, yet compact enough to navigate unpredictable coastal waters. The Azure Dragon Sect disciples had been assigned modest quarters below deck, a shared space with simple bedding. Meanwhile, Zhao Ming and Murong Xue had separate rooms near the captain¡¯s cabin, a subtle acknowledgment of their status. His own quarters were small but comfortable¡ªa wooden bed, a writing desk, and a single lantern swaying with the ship¡¯s movement. After ensuring his belongings were in order, Zhao Ming ventured back onto the deck. The wind carried the scent of salt and damp wood as he observed the passengers settling into their routines. Some stood by the railing, gazing at the endless sea, while others spoke in hushed tones, their expressions wary. As he passed by a group of merchants, he caught fragments of their whispered conversation. ¡°¡­another ship vanished last month, barely a day from Beihai.¡± ¡°Pirates again?¡± one asked. ¡°Who else? They¡¯ve grown bolder. I heard they don¡¯t even take hostages anymore¡ªjust kill and plunder.¡± Zhao Ming frowned but continued walking, making his way toward the ship¡¯s galley. The scent of freshly steamed buns and boiled fish broth drifted from the open hatch, drawing him inside. The cook, a burly man with a thick beard and rolled-up sleeves, was kneading dough with practiced ease. He glanced up as Zhao Ming approached. ¡°Looking for breakfast?¡± the cook asked, smirking. ¡°Not yet,¡± Zhao Ming replied. ¡°Just wanted to ask about this route. Seems like many passengers are uneasy.¡± The cook exhaled through his nose, wiping his hands on a rag. ¡°They have a right to be.¡± ¡°Pirates?¡± The cook nodded. ¡°Aye. Used to be they only hit small fishing boats or lone traders. Now, they go after merchant ships like this one.¡± He paused, lowering his voice. ¡°Heard from a few sailors¡ªsome refuse to take this route anymore. Too many attacks. Too many vanishings.¡± Zhao Ming¡¯s fingers tapped lightly against the wooden counter. ¡°Do we know what they¡¯re after?¡± The cook hesitated before answering. ¡°Treasure, obviously. But some say they¡¯re looking for something else. They board ships, ransack everything, and if they don¡¯t find what they¡¯re looking for¡­¡± His voice darkened. ¡°They kill everyone.¡± A heavy silence hung between them. ¡°¡­And what about Beihai?¡± Zhao Ming finally asked. The cook scoffed. ¡°Used to be a prosperous port. Now? More and more wealthy folk are heading there¡ªrunning from war, bandits, whoever¡¯s chasing them. But safety? Hah. Who knows how long that¡¯ll last.¡± Zhao Ming gave a small nod of thanks before leaving the galley. The ship creaked beneath his feet as he stepped back onto the deck. His gaze swept across the open waters, thoughts lingering on the cook¡¯s words. If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it. Something was happening in Beihai. And whatever the pirates were searching for, it was valuable enough to leave a trail of bodies behind.
As the ship continued its voyage, the morning mist had long lifted, revealing an endless stretch of sea under a brightening sky. Murong Xue gathered the Azure Dragon Sect disciples on the deck, arms crossed, her expression calm but expectant. "Training doesn¡¯t stop just because we¡¯re on a ship," she announced. "Footwork is crucial in battle. If you can stay balanced here, you¡¯ll be even more stable on solid ground." The disciples exchanged determined looks before nodding in agreement. They began moving across the deck, carefully adjusting their steps to the shifting rhythm of the waves. Some struggled, nearly stumbling, while others, with more experience, adapted swiftly. Murong Xue, however, moved with absolute grace. Her footwork was light, her posture steady, as if the ship¡¯s swaying had no effect on her at all. Even when the vessel tilted slightly with the waves, she barely wavered. Zhao Ming leaned against the railing, watching with mild amusement. "I¡¯m starting to think you don¡¯t even need solid ground to fight." Murong Xue smirked. "You should try. If you fall into the sea, I might even consider fishing you out." He rolled his eyes but stepped forward. ¡°Fine, let¡¯s see what all the fuss is about.¡± At first, Zhao Ming moved cautiously, his steps controlled as he felt out the ship¡¯s movement. It wasn¡¯t as difficult as he had expected¡ªuntil a much larger wave suddenly struck. The ship lurched violently. His foot slipped. Before he could catch himself, he stumbled forward¡ªstraight into Murong Xue. With a startled gasp, she lost her footing. Zhao Ming instinctively reached out, but instead of steadying her, his weight only sent them both toppling onto the wooden planks. For a brief moment, silence filled the air. Murong Xue lay beneath him, her chest rising and falling with a sharp intake of breath. Her face was just inches from his, eyes widened¡ªnot in anger, but something else entirely. A faint flush crept onto her cheeks, a soft pink dusting her usually composed expression. Zhao Ming¡¯s mind froze. Then, the sound of a disciple coughing awkwardly shattered the moment. Realizing their position, Zhao Ming quickly pushed himself up, clearing his throat as he offered Murong Xue a hand. "That¡ªuh¡ªwas the ship¡¯s fault." Murong Xue hesitated for a split second before accepting his hand. She stood swiftly, dusting off her robes while keeping her gaze slightly averted. "Of course. We should blame the sea itself next time." Some disciples snickered, while others pretended not to notice the unusual exchange. Zhao Ming rubbed the back of his neck, feeling the warmth of embarrassment creeping up his ears. As the laughter died down and training resumed, Zhao Ming¡¯s eyes instinctively wandered toward the passengers. That was when he saw it. A hooded figure stood at the edge of the crowd, their posture stiff, as if observing him intently. Zhao Ming narrowed his gaze, but before he could get a better look, the figure turned and slipped away into the ship¡¯s lower decks. A flicker of unease settled in his chest. Who were they? And why did they seem so interested in him?
As night descended upon the vast sea, the sky darkened faster than expected. Heavy clouds rolled in from the horizon, blotting out the moon, and the once-gentle breeze turned into a restless wind. The ship rocked slightly more with each passing wave. Zhao Ming stood at the railing, staring into the distance. The salty air carried an eerie chill, and an unshakable unease settled in his chest. Near the helm, the ship¡¯s captain frowned as he scanned the sky. His years at sea had taught him to recognize the signs of a coming storm. ¡°Lower the sails slightly,¡± he ordered the crew. ¡°Keep the ship steady. The wind¡¯s shifting.¡± Sailors hurried to follow his command, muttering among themselves. The atmosphere had changed¡ªtension now crackled in the air, much like the distant rumble of thunder on the horizon. Zhao Ming exhaled and turned to head back to his quarters when¡ª SPLASH! A loud, unnatural sound echoed from the side of the ship. For a brief moment, silence followed. Then¡ª "Man overboard!" A sailor¡¯s panicked scream tore through the night. Zhao Ming spun around, rushing toward the source of the commotion. Several sailors were already leaning over the railing, peering into the black waters below. The sea, once calm, now churned restlessly. Waves crashed against the hull as the wind howled louder. ¡°I¡ªI don¡¯t know!¡± a sailor stammered. ¡°I just heard the splash, and when I looked, someone was gone!¡± Murong Xue appeared beside Zhao Ming, her expression sharp with concern. ¡°We need to check on the others,¡± she said, urgency lacing her voice. Together, they hurried below deck. Murong Xue moved swiftly between the disciples and scholars, her gaze scanning each face. One by one, they confirmed that no one from their group had gone missing. When she returned to the upper deck, the ship rocked violently, and she gripped the railing for balance. Although she wasn¡¯t prone to seasickness, the constant swaying, combined with the chilling winds and eerie echoes of the sea, made her feel lightheaded. Pushing through the discomfort, she made her way to the helm to speak with the captain. "How bad is it?" Murong Xue asked, steadying herself against the swaying deck. The captain''s face was grim. "Winds are picking up faster than expected. If it keeps up, we might be looking at a full storm before long. The currents are shifting too, which makes it harder to keep the ship steady." Murong Xue nodded, absorbing the information. "Is there anything we should prepare for?" "Tell your people to stay below deck. We¡¯ve adjusted the sails, but if the wind gets worse, we might have to secure everything down tighter. If you start feeling anything unusual, find shelter immediately." She tightened her grip on the railing, her unease deepening. "Understood." With a final glance at the darkened horizon, she turned back and made her way below deck, heading toward her quarters. By the time she reached her quarters, fatigue pressed down on her. The storm outside raged, and the howling wind rattled the wooden walls. She sighed, rubbing her temples. The rain had lowered the temperature considerably, yet she still felt a lingering warmth against her wrist. Meanwhile, Zhao Ming remained below deck, ensuring the disciples were unharmed. His eyes scanned the room before settling on a female disciple who seemed unaffected by the ship¡¯s movement. ¡°Come with me,¡± he instructed. ¡°Check on Murong Xue and make sure she¡¯s all right.¡± The young woman nodded and followed his orders, making her way to Murong Xue¡¯s quarters. Inside, Murong Xue glanced down at the jade bangle Zhao Ming had given her. Despite the cold, its smooth surface radiated a gentle heat, as if shielding her from the chill. A soft knock sounded at her door. Murong Xue turned, steadying herself as she opened it. Zhao Ming stood there, his brows slightly furrowed when he saw her pale face. ¡°You¡¯re not feeling well,¡± he noted. ¡°It¡¯s nothing. Just the ship rocking¡­¡± she murmured, but her voice lacked its usual steadiness. Zhao Ming didn¡¯t argue. Instead, he reached into his satchel and pulled out a small porcelain vial. ¡°The medicine from the old woman,¡± he said. ¡°It should help.¡± Murong Xue hesitated, but the warmth from the bangle pulsed gently, as if reassuring her. She accepted the vial with a small nod. After handing over the medicine, Zhao Ming turned to the female disciple. ¡°Stay with her. If she needs anything, you can knock on my door.¡± Murong Xue uncorked the vial and took a small sip of the medicine. The herbal mixture was bitter, but warmth spread through her chest almost immediately. She exhaled softly, her body relaxing as the effects settled in. The female disciple helped her lie down, adjusting the blanket over her. "Try to rest, Senior Sister. I''ll be here if you need anything." Murong Xue nodded weakly, her eyelids growing heavier. As the storm raged outside, the warmth of the jade bangle and the presence of her companion provided a small comfort. Before long, exhaustion overtook her, and she drifted into uneasy sleep. Outside, the storm continued to rage, but within the dimly lit cabin, a quiet sense of calm settled between them. Chapter 26: Morning After the Storm The storm had passed, leaving behind a sea that shimmered under the soft morning light. The once-violent waves had calmed, rolling gently beneath the ship as if they, too, were recovering from the night¡¯s ordeal. The air carried the scent of salt and damp wood, but now, it lacked the eerie chill that had unsettled everyone the night before. Zhao Ming stepped into Murong Xue¡¯s quarters, balancing a wooden tray in his hands. The faint aroma of warm rice porridge and ginger tea filled the room, a contrast to the damp air outside. The female disciple, who had stayed with Murong Xue through the night, stirred at the sound of his arrival. ¡°I brought breakfast,¡± Zhao Ming announced, placing the tray down on a small table near the bed. The bowls of rice porridge steamed softly, accompanied by a side of pickles and a cup of ginger tea. Murong Xue shifted slightly, her movements slow. She still looked pale, though the worst had passed. She accepted the bowl with a slight nod, her fingers brushing against the smooth ceramic. The female disciple also took her portion, murmuring a polite thank you before eating in silence. Zhao Ming, meanwhile, sat across from them, unwrapping a steamed bun. He dipped it into a small dish of pickled vegetables, taking a bite with an expression of pure contentment. Beside him, a portion of dried meat rested on a plate, completing his meal. Murong Xue, despite her fatigue, arched an eyebrow. ¡°You really do love buns.¡± Zhao Ming smirked, chewing leisurely. ¡°They¡¯re convenient. And good.¡± The female disciple stifled a smile but quickly finished her meal. She set her bowl aside and stood, stretching slightly. ¡°I should go back and check on the others,¡± she said casually. Then, with a teasing grin, she glanced at Murong Xue. ¡°Senior Sister, take your time. You two should talk.¡± Murong Xue shot her a look, but before she could say anything, the girl had already slipped out of the room. Annoyed, Murong Xue made a mental note to train the disciples harder once their mission in Beihai was complete. Their endurance needed improvement¡ªbut more importantly, they clearly had too much energy for teasing. After finishing his meal, Zhao Ming stood. ¡°Get some more rest. I¡¯ll be on deck.¡± Murong Xue merely hummed in response, already feeling the pull of sleep again. As the door shut behind him, she leaned back against the pillows, the warmth of the tea still lingering on her lips.
Stepping onto the deck, Zhao Ming inhaled deeply, letting the crisp morning air fill his lungs. Though the sea had calmed, the sky remained a dull gray, heavy with lingering clouds. The scent of rain still clung to the wind, hinting that the storm hadn¡¯t entirely passed. He made his way toward the helm, where the captain stood, arms crossed, surveying the horizon. The man¡¯s weathered face bore the marks of long years at sea, but his eyes remained sharp, ever watchful. ¡°How¡¯s the ship?¡± Zhao Ming asked, stopping beside him. The captain exhaled through his nose, his expression unreadable. ¡°We¡¯re still on course to Beihai, but the storm set us back. We¡¯ll be delayed by a day.¡± Zhao Ming frowned. ¡°A day?¡± ¡°The sails took some damage. My men are patching them up, but the wind is weak. Even if we fix them quickly, we won¡¯t be moving as fast as before.¡± The captain gestured toward the mast, where sailors worked to repair torn fabric. ¡°Weather¡¯s still uncertain. Might get another light storm before we reach land.¡± Zhao Ming nodded, absorbing the information. A delay wasn¡¯t ideal, but at least they were still on course. His gaze flickered toward the railing, where the sea stretched endlessly into the misty horizon. ¡°That splash we heard last night,¡± he said after a pause. ¡°Any news on the man overboard?¡± The captain glanced at him, then shook his head. ¡°No one¡¯s missing.¡± Zhao Ming¡¯s brows furrowed. ¡°Are you sure?¡± ¡°I counted the crew myself,¡± the captain said firmly. ¡°Everyone¡¯s accounted for. If anything fell into the water, it wasn¡¯t one of my men.¡± Zhao Ming crossed his arms. ¡°Then what was it?¡± The captain scratched his beard. ¡°Could¡¯ve been a barrel. Cargo shifts in a storm. Something heavy might¡¯ve broken loose and gone overboard.¡± Support the creativity of authors by visiting Royal Road for this novel and more. Zhao Ming wasn¡¯t convinced. The splash had been loud¡ªtoo loud for a mere barrel. But with no missing crew and no other clues, there was little more he could press on. As he mulled over the captain¡¯s words, a presence lingered nearby. Unseen by either man, a hooded figure watched from the shadows, hidden between the stacked crates near the stern. Their posture was still, their eyes locked onto the captain as if waiting for something. But as Zhao Ming turned slightly, the figure slipped away, disappearing into the maze of ropes and barrels before he could notice.
Zhao Ming left the helm, his thoughts still lingering on the captain¡¯s words. A barrel falling into the sea? Perhaps. But something about the explanation didn¡¯t sit right with him. As he walked along the deck, he noticed something strange. The usual chatter among the sailors had quieted. Some of them moved with an air of unease, exchanging glances before quickly looking away when they saw him. Others worked with stiff shoulders, as if forcing themselves to focus. He narrowed his eyes. Something was off. Near the stern, movement caught his attention. A hooded figure stood close to a crew member, their voices hushed. Zhao Ming couldn''t make out the words, but their body language told him enough¡ªthis was no casual conversation. The crew member nodded sharply before turning away, disappearing below deck. The hooded figure hesitated, as if sensing Zhao Ming¡¯s gaze, then subtly shifted, blending into the ship¡¯s shadows. Zhao Ming took a step forward. The moment he did, the figure turned and walked briskly toward the other end of the deck, slipping between stacked crates and barrels. Not wanting to alert them, Zhao Ming adjusted his pace, casually moving in the same direction. He might not have proof of anything yet, but his instincts screamed at him¡ªsomething was happening on this ship. And he intended to find out what.
By the time Zhao Ming returned to Murong Xue¡¯s quarters, she was sitting up, looking much better than earlier. The color had returned to her cheeks, and though she still appeared tired, her sharp gaze met his the moment he stepped inside. ¡°You¡¯re back,¡± she said, setting aside the empty cup of ginger tea. ¡°Something on your mind?¡± Zhao Ming closed the door behind him, lowering his voice. ¡°The crew is acting strangely. Some of them seem tense, as if hiding something. I also saw a hooded figure whispering to a sailor. When they noticed me, they scattered.¡± Murong Xue frowned. ¡°That doesn¡¯t sound like simple ship business.¡± ¡°No,¡± Zhao Ming agreed. ¡°And the captain claims no one fell overboard last night. He thinks it was just a barrel or cargo lost in the storm.¡± Murong Xue¡¯s fingers tapped lightly against the blanket. ¡°Convenient excuse. But you don¡¯t believe it.¡± ¡°I don¡¯t.¡± His expression darkened. ¡°Something¡¯s going on, and I don¡¯t like it.¡± She let out a quiet breath. ¡°Neither do I.¡± A moment of silence passed between them, both weighing the situation. Then, Murong Xue shifted, her tone turning firm. ¡°We should stay on guard. If there is trouble brewing, we need to be ready.¡± Zhao Ming nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll inform the others.¡± That evening, the disciples received quiet, careful warnings. Nothing too alarming¡ªjust a simple message to stay alert, keep their weapons close, and move in pairs. Outside, the sea stretched into endless darkness. The ship creaked under the weight of its secrets. And as the wind carried whispers of unease, Zhao Ming and Murong Xue prepared themselves for whatever was to come.
The night was thick with tension, the moon obscured behind heavy clouds. The ship swayed gently on the dark waters, an eerie calm before the storm. Then¡ª Clang! The sharp clash of swords shattered the silence. A shout rang out, followed by the unmistakable sound of steel meeting steel. Zhao Ming¡¯s body tensed. His grip instinctively tightened around his sword as he rushed out of his quarters, his mind already piecing together the worst possibilities. As he reached the deck, chaos erupted before him. Sailors clashed violently, their figures illuminated by the flickering glow of lanterns. Some fought fiercely, while others hesitated, uncertain where their loyalties lay. Amidst the struggle, Zhao Ming¡¯s sharp eyes scanned for a leader¡ªbut none stood out. This wasn¡¯t a spontaneous brawl. This was planned. Ducking past a group of fighting men, he made his way below deck. He needed to regroup with Murong Xue and the others before the situation worsened. Inside, Murong Xue and Gao Ren were already moving with urgency. Gao Ren¡¯s deep voice cut through the tension as he directed the disciples and mercenaries. ¡°Secure the scholars at the back. Form a defensive line¡ªmercenaries at the front, disciples behind them. We hold the corridor. If anyone tries to force their way through, cut them down.¡± The mercenaries quickly took position, drawing their weapons with quiet efficiency. The disciples, though less experienced, moved with discipline under Gao Ren¡¯s command. Murong Xue glanced at Zhao Ming as he entered. ¡°What¡¯s happening up there?¡± ¡°A mutiny,¡± Zhao Ming said grimly. ¡°It¡¯s not clear who¡¯s leading it yet, but it¡¯s no random fight. Someone planned this.¡± Gao Ren let out a sharp breath, his brow furrowed. ¡°Damn it. I knew something was off the moment I saw those sailors whispering among themselves today. Should¡¯ve trusted my gut.¡± ¡°We don¡¯t have time to regret it now,¡± Murong Xue said firmly. ¡°Our priority is keeping the scholars safe.¡± Before anyone could say more, hurried footsteps pounded down the stairs. A man emerged from the shadows of the stairwell, his boots striking the wooden planks with heavy confidence. He was broad-shouldered, with sun-darkened skin and a rough beard, the kind of man who had spent most of his life at sea. His stance was relaxed but firm, like someone who knew he had the upper hand. His gaze swept over them before he let out a low chuckle. ¡°Smart of you to gather here,¡± he said, his voice carrying a smug edge. ¡°But don¡¯t get any ideas.¡± The flickering lantern light revealed a red scarf tied around his arm. Zhao Ming¡¯s eyes narrowed. The man took another step forward, resting a hand on the cutlass at his side. ¡°Orders from above: Stay put and don¡¯t cause trouble. We wouldn¡¯t want to spill unnecessary blood, would we?¡± His words were laced with thinly veiled menace, and his gaze flicked to Murong Xue, then the mercenaries, as if assessing their strength. ¡°You fight back, and we¡¯ll make sure this ship never reaches Beihai,¡± he continued. ¡°So be good passengers, and maybe you¡¯ll see the sunrise.¡± For a moment, silence hung heavy in the air. Then Zhao Ming spoke, his tone cold. ¡°And if we don¡¯t comply?¡± The sailor¡¯s grin widened. ¡°Then you¡¯ll wish you had.¡± Chapter 27: The Battle for the Ship The sailor stood at the entrance of the lower deck, his breathing ragged as he pointed a trembling sword at Zhao Ming and the others. His red scarf fluttered slightly in the dim lantern light. "Don''t try anything funny," he warned, his voice rough with tension. "Stay where you are, or you''ll regret it." Zhao Ming narrowed his eyes, noting the sweat on the sailor¡¯s brow and the way his grip on the weapon tightened. He wasn¡¯t just issuing a threat¡ªhe was stalling. Murong Xue and Gao Ren exchanged glances. They had been in enough battles to recognize the signs. Whatever was happening above deck, this man was here to keep them from interfering. Gao Ren took a slow step forward, his hands raised in a non-threatening gesture. "Relax, friend," he said with a smirk. "No need to be so tense. We¡¯re just passengers, after all." The sailor flinched, eyes darting between them. Then, from the shadows, a figure moved. Before the sailor could react, a mercenary sprang from behind a wooden beam, seizing his sword arm and wrenching it back. The sailor barely had time to gasp before another mercenary struck him hard at the base of his skull. His body went limp, collapsing in a heap. Gao Ren let out a short chuckle. "Nice work." One of the mercenaries knelt, quickly tying the unconscious man¡¯s hands behind his back before yanking the red scarf from his neck. He examined it with a frown. ¡°Looks like he¡¯s part of a group.¡± Zhao Ming crouched beside them, studying the sailor¡¯s face. ¡°He was buying time for the others.¡± His expression darkened. ¡°Let¡¯s move.¡± With weapons drawn, they climbed the stairs leading to the deck. The moment Zhao Ming stepped outside, chaos engulfed him. The ship was a battlefield. Sailors fought each other with whatever they had¡ªknives, clubs, fists. Some defended the captain, while others seemed bent on overthrowing him. A storm still lingered on the horizon, and the ship rocked dangerously as the struggle raged on. Barrels rolled across the slick deck. A sailor let out a cry as he was thrown against the mast, blood streaking his uniform. Another staggered past Zhao Ming, clutching a deep wound. Murong Xue stepped up beside him, her fellow disciples following. She took in the scene and sighed. ¡°We¡¯re really doing this, aren¡¯t we?¡± Zhao Ming smirked, gripping his sword. ¡°Wouldn¡¯t be the first time.¡± Without hesitation, they stepped forward, ready to fight.
Zhao Ming¡¯s sharp gaze swept across the battlefield, analyzing the chaotic clash of steel and shouts. The deck, once orderly, was now a battlefield split between those loyal to the captain and the mutineers led by the first mate. Something felt off. Some of these sailors fought too well¡ªtoo disciplined for mere seamen. Their movements were calculated, their attacks precise. "Mercenaries," Zhao Ming muttered under his breath. Murong Xue, beside him, followed his gaze and nodded grimly. "Or assassins. This isn¡¯t just a simple mutiny." Further ahead, the ship¡¯s captain fought fiercely against the traitors, but he was outnumbered. He parried a blow, kicked a mutineer off balance, and continued fighting despite a cut on his arm. Meanwhile, on the other side of the ship, the first mate stood tall, barking out orders. He wasn¡¯t just leading¡ªhe was commanding the battle. Zhao Ming¡¯s expression darkened. "So, he¡¯s the one orchestrating this." Gao Ren, standing beside him, tightened his grip on his weapon. "That bastard¡¯s been waiting for this moment." Murong Xue sighed. "We can''t charge in blindly. If we do, we¡¯ll get caught between both sides." Zhao Ming nodded. "If we take out the first mate, the mutineers will lose their leader. But reaching him won¡¯t be easy¡ªnot with those mercenaries in the way." Murong Xue frowned. "Then we create a distraction. If we split their forces, we can weaken them." Zhao Ming turned to Gao Ren. "Take some of the disciples and secure the scholars. If this mutiny is more than just taking over the ship, our people might be their real target." Gao Ren smirked. "Leave it to me. If any of these bastards try to harm our people, I¡¯ll cut them down myself." Zhao Ming nodded. "Make sure the mercenaries guard the weapons and special cargo as well. We can¡¯t afford to let them fall into the wrong hands." Gao Ren shot him a thumbs-up. "Got it. You two just make sure to deal with that first mate before this mess gets worse." Murong Xue adjusted her grip on her weapon. "And what about us?" "We¡¯ll strike where it hurts most," Zhao Ming said, his eyes narrowing. "We push through the battlefield and take down the first mate. Once he¡¯s out, the mutineers will start losing their nerve." Murong Xue smirked slightly. "Just like old times?" Zhao Ming returned her smirk. "Exactly." With their plan set, they braced themselves for battle. This narrative has been unlawfully taken from Royal Road. If you see it on Amazon, please report it.
From the shadows near the stairway leading to the deck, Zhao Ming and his group silently observed the battle unfold. The clash of steel rang through the air, and the ship rocked slightly under the weight of the chaos. At first, the fight seemed evenly matched¡ªthe captain and his loyalists fought fiercely, holding their ground. But as time passed, the tide of battle shifted. The mutineers, led by the first mate, were gaining the upper hand. They fought with practiced efficiency, forcing the captain¡¯s defenders back step by step. Zhao Ming¡¯s sharp gaze swept across the battlefield. That was when he saw it. The hooded man, still standing near the helm, barely moving amid the chaos. Unlike the others, he wasn¡¯t fighting¡ªhe was watching. Waiting. Then, with the smallest flick of his fingers, he signaled the first mate. Zhao Ming narrowed his eyes as the first mate gave a brief nod in response before calling out new orders. Almost immediately, the mutineers pushed harder, their movements more coordinated. The captain was being forced into a defensive position. ¡°They¡¯re starting to lose ground,¡± one of the disciples whispered anxiously. ¡°Shouldn¡¯t we join the fight now?¡± Murong Xue, standing beside Zhao Ming, held up a hand to stop them. ¡°Wait for Zhao Ming¡¯s signal,¡± she instructed firmly, her eyes never leaving the battle. Zhao Ming remained silent for a moment, his mind analyzing the situation. His group was still unnoticed, and the enemy¡¯s full focus was on the captain. If they charged in now, the mutineers might still have enough awareness to split their forces. No. They needed to wait. ¡°Not yet,¡± Zhao Ming finally said. ¡°Let them think they have the advantage. Once they shift their full attention to the captain¡ªonce they drop their guard¡ªthat¡¯s when we strike.¡± Murong Xue gave him a sharp glance before nodding in agreement. The disciples clenched their fists, ready but patient. Zhao Ming quickly turned to assess their resources. ¡°Do any of you have throwing weapons?¡± he asked in a hushed tone. ¡°Or can any of you move stealthily?¡± A brief silence followed before one disciple reluctantly shook his head. ¡°None of us are trained for stealth,¡± he admitted. ¡°But we do have a few throwing knives.¡± Zhao Ming smirked. ¡°Good enough.¡± He quickly formulated a plan. ¡°A few of you, move to the other side of the deck. Once I give the signal, throw your knives at the mutineers. Aim for their exposed sides, legs, or anywhere that will cause confusion. You don¡¯t need to kill¡ªjust distract.¡± The disciples nodded in understanding. Zhao Ming continued, ¡°The moment the distraction works, Murong Xue and the rest of us will charge in and take advantage of the chaos.¡± The disciples dispersed quietly, moving to their designated positions. Now, they just had to wait for the perfect moment.
The battle on deck reached its climax. The captain and his remaining loyalists were cornered, their backs against the ship¡¯s railing. Blood dripped from cuts and bruises, their breath labored from exhaustion. Meanwhile, the mutineers stood tall, weapons raised, forming a tightening circle around their prey. The first mate stepped forward, his blade pointed at the captain¡¯s chest. ¡°It¡¯s over,¡± he sneered. The captain, blood staining his uniform, tightened his grip on his sword. His eyes burned with both fury and disbelief. ¡°Why?¡± he demanded. ¡°I trusted you, fought beside you for years! Why betray me?¡± The first mate scoffed, shaking his head. ¡°Betray you?¡± he repeated. ¡°No, Captain. I simply made the first move. I¡¯d rather stab you in the back before you could do the same to me.¡± The captain gritted his teeth. ¡°You fool. I would have never¡ª¡± A slow, deliberate set of footsteps echoed across the deck. The captain turned toward the sound, and the tension in the air thickened. The hooded man, who had been watching from the sidelines, now stepped forward. With a single motion, he pulled back his hood. The dim lantern light revealed a scarred face¡ªhalf-burned, twisted with old wounds. His expression, however, was one of cold amusement. The captain¡¯s eyes widened in shock. His breath hitched. ¡°Impossible¡­¡± he whispered. ¡°You¡¯re supposed to be dead.¡± The hooded man chuckled darkly. ¡°I was.¡± A hush fell over the deck. Even some of the mutineers shifted uncomfortably, sensing the gravity of the moment. ¡°I was left to die,¡± the hooded man continued, his voice laced with bitterness. ¡°Thrown overboard, my body broken and burned. And yet¡­ I lived.¡± The captain swallowed hard. ¡°How?¡± ¡°I was found,¡± the man answered. ¡°Healed. Rebuilt.¡± His fingers traced the scars on his face. ¡°A group far more powerful than you could imagine took me in. They gave me purpose. And in return, I swore my loyalty.¡± His scarred lips curled into a cruel smile. ¡°Their orders are simple¡ªbring chaos to the East Sea.¡± The captain¡¯s hands trembled, not from fear, but from rage. ¡°You¡¯re nothing more than a pawn,¡± he spat. ¡°A tool for another master.¡± The hooded man¡¯s smile didn¡¯t waver. ¡°Perhaps. But today, I get my revenge.¡± The mutineers raised their weapons, ready to strike. From the shadows, Zhao Ming watched, waiting for the perfect moment to intervene.
A flickering light cut through the chaos. Standing on the upper deck, Zhao Ming held a torch high, the flames casting dancing shadows across the bloodstained wood. The sudden illumination drew everyone¡¯s attention. The captain and his remaining men turned toward him in confusion, while the hooded man and the first mate stiffened. For a brief moment, there was silence. Then, the hooded man chuckled, his scarred face twisting with amusement. ¡°A scholar?¡± he mused, tilting his head. ¡°You should¡¯ve stayed below deck, boy.¡± His voice was mocking, dripping with condescension. ¡°This is no place for someone like you.¡± He turned back to the captain. ¡°No matter. I¡¯ll deal with you later. Killing you will be a good way to end the night.¡± Zhao Ming didn¡¯t react to the threat. Instead, he smiled slightly. ¡°You said you were ¡®rebuilt.¡¯ I¡¯m curious. How does that work?¡± He gestured at the hooded man¡¯s scars with interest. ¡°Was it alchemy? Special medicine? Or something even more¡­ unnatural?¡± The hooded man raised an eyebrow, clearly caught off guard. Then he let out a short laugh. ¡°What a strange scholar you are,¡± he mused. ¡°In the face of death, you ask about my recovery? Are you looking for inspiration for one of your books?¡± Zhao Ming shrugged. ¡°Knowledge is knowledge. Even in desperate situations, one must seize the opportunity to learn.¡± The hooded man smirked. ¡°Amusing.¡± He turned to the first mate. ¡°Tie him up. I don¡¯t want him interrupting again.¡± The first mate nodded and took a step toward Zhao Ming. At the same time, a few of the mutineers started moving toward the scholar¡¯s position. Zhao Ming tightened his grip on the torch. His expression remained calm, but his eyes sharpened as he saw his moment. Just as the first mate turned slightly¡ªhis focus shifting back toward the captain¡ªZhao Ming moved. With a sharp motion, he hurled the torch straight at the first mate¡¯s face. The flame arced through the air, illuminating the deck for a split second before smashing into its target. The first mate barely had time to react. The firelight blinded him as the burning torch struck his eye. ¡°AARGH!!¡± He screamed, stumbling back, hands clutching his face in agony. His sword clattered to the ground as he howled in pain. The moment of chaos was all Zhao Ming needed. ¡°Now!¡± he shouted. From the shadows, hidden disciples of the Azure Dragon Sect sprang into action. A flurry of throwing knives cut through the air, striking the unsuspecting mutineers. Murong Xue led the charge, her sword flashing under the moonlight. ¡°Attack!¡± she commanded, her voice ringing clear across the deck. Zhao Ming smiled. The real battle had begun. Chapter 28: Turning the Tide As soon as Zhao Ming¡¯s torch struck the first mate, Murong Xue wasted no time. "Now! Attack!" she commanded, her voice cutting through the chaos. The Azure Dragon disciples surged forward, their blades flashing as they clashed with the mutineers. Murong Xue led them from the front, her movements swift and precise. She parried a wild swing from an opponent before driving her sword into his shoulder, forcing him to collapse with a pained grunt. "Stay together! Push them back!" she called out, ensuring her disciples didn''t get separated in the melee. From his position on the upper deck, Zhao Ming observed everything carefully. His eyes darted to the hooded man, who had yet to personally enter the fray. Instead, he stood calmly, watching with an amused smirk. One of the disciples, panting from exertion, called out, "Senior Sister! Their formation is tightening!" Murong Xue cursed under her breath. The initial ambush had worked, but now the mutineers were regaining their footing. Zhao Ming narrowed his eyes. "We need to disrupt them again," he muttered, more to himself than anyone else. He turned to a nearby disciple who had stayed back. "Do we have any more throwing knives?" "Just a few, Brother in-law." "Good enough. Target their feet or arms¡ªthrow when I give the signal." Murong Xue overheard and glanced up at him. "What are you planning?" "Just keeping the pressure on. If we let them regroup, we''ll be in trouble," Zhao Ming replied, his mind already forming the next step. She nodded in agreement, slashing at an approaching enemy. "Then make it quick." Zhao Ming exhaled slowly. The battle was still uncertain, but one thing was clear¡ªthis fight wasn¡¯t going to be easy. --- Murong Xue deflected a blade and countered with a swift slash, forcing her opponent back. Just as she moved to press forward, another mutineer filled the gap, striking in perfect sync with his comrade. Her eyes narrowed. "They¡¯re getting organized." Zhao Ming, observing from the upper deck, immediately noticed the shift. The mutineers had tightened their formation, no longer fighting like desperate rebels but as disciplined soldiers. Their wild attacks were replaced by coordinated movements, making them far more dangerous. The hooded man smirked from the sidelines, his voice carrying over the chaos. "Hold formation! Drive them back!" At his command, the mutineers adjusted their stance, attacking with newfound precision. The clash of metal rang through the air as Zhao Ming¡¯s allies found themselves on the defensive. "Tch." Murong Xue barely dodged a strike, frustration creeping into her voice. "They weren¡¯t even trying before?!" One of the Azure Dragon disciples staggered, struggling to block an incoming blow. A mercenary beside him grunted in pain as he was forced back. Then came another voice, rough and filled with anger. "Kill them all! No one gets out alive!" Zhao Ming¡¯s gaze shifted to the first mate, who was still standing despite his injuries. Blood trickled from his burned face, but his fury remained unshaken. Murong Xue clicked her tongue. "This is bad. Their morale¡¯s coming back. If we let this continue, we¡¯ll be the ones getting pushed back." Zhao Ming remained silent for a moment, scanning the battlefield. Then, his voice rang out, calm but firm. "We still have the advantage in positioning. They¡¯re stronger than we expected, but they think we¡¯re just martial artists. They¡¯re not worried about strategy." The hooded man¡¯s smirk deepened as he barked out new orders. "Reinforce the left flank. Keep the pressure on them. Cut down the weak first¡ªbreak their morale." The first mate, wiping the blood from his face, let out a roar. "You heard him! Push forward! Kill them all!" The mutineers moved with renewed aggression, their attacks forcing Zhao Ming¡¯s side into a retreat. The defenders struggled as their footing became more unstable. Murong Xue deflected another strike, gritting her teeth. "This bastard knows how to command," she muttered. Zhao Ming narrowed his eyes. The battle had shifted against them. If he didn¡¯t act now, they¡¯d be overwhelmed. "We need to disrupt them before they fully take control," he said, glancing at the disciples who still had throwing knives. Murong Xue shot him a sharp look. "You want us to throw them?" "No," Zhao Ming corrected. "Target the mast¡ªif we can loosen the support ropes, part of it might drop." One of the disciples hesitated. "But... what if it falls on our own people?" Zhao Ming exhaled. "That¡¯s the risk. But if we do nothing, we¡¯ll lose for sure." Murong Xue smirked despite the chaos. "Hmph. Risky, but bold. I like it." Zhao Ming turned to the disciples. "Aim for the weakest part of the mast supports. Wait for my signal." Murong Xue readied her sword, lowering her stance. "And when it drops?" Zhao Ming¡¯s gaze sharpened. "We charge." A tense silence followed. Then Murong Xue chuckled. "Fine. Just don¡¯t take too long¡ªI¡¯d rather not be the one on the defensive." Zhao Ming nodded and raised his hand, signaling the disciples. Their one chance to turn the tide was now.
As Gao Ren descended into the lower deck, the dim lanterns cast flickering shadows against the wooden walls. The distant clash of steel and the muffled cries from above made the scholars huddle together, fear evident in their wide eyes. Then¡ªshouts. "They''re already inside!" one of the disciples hissed, gripping his sword tightly. Gao Ren¡¯s sharp gaze snapped forward. A group of mutineers had emerged from a hidden passage near the storage area. Their leader, a burly man with a jagged scar running down his jaw, grinned wickedly. "Kill the scholars! Take the cargo!" he barked. Before the scholars could even react, a battle erupted in the narrow corridors. Unauthorized tale usage: if you spot this story on Amazon, report the violation. "Hold the line!" Gao Ren commanded, his voice cutting through the chaos. His mercenaries and disciples sprang into action, forming a barrier between the terrified scholars and the advancing mutineers. The mercenaries, hardened by battle, fought viciously¡ªone of them driving his dagger into an enemy¡¯s gut before kicking the body aside. A mutineer lunged for the storage crates, but one of Gao Ren¡¯s mercenaries intercepted him with a brutal axe swing, sending him crashing into a pile of barrels. "Protect the cargo!" the mercenary bellowed. Gao Ren surged forward like an unstoppable force. His blade flashed, cutting down a mutineer before he could raise his weapon. Another enemy tried to slip past him, but Gao Ren¡¯s footwork was precise¡ªsidestepping and driving his sword into the man¡¯s ribs. "Push them back! Don¡¯t let a single one past!" Gao Ren ordered. The defenders fought fiercely, but the mutineers were just as relentless. Then, one of the mutineers sprinted toward the storage area, eyes gleaming with desperation. "They found the cargo!" a mutineer yelled. "Kill the scholars!" Panic surged through the unarmed scholars, but before the mutineers could reach them¡ª THWACK! An arrow shot through the corridor, embedding itself in a mutineer¡¯s chest. One of Gao Ren¡¯s mercenaries, a veteran archer, reloaded swiftly, loosing another shot. Gao Ren took the opportunity, cutting through another attacker before turning to his men. "Secure the cargo! The rest of you, with me!" The mercenaries and disciples responded instantly, some moving to barricade the storage area while others reinforced the front line. One of the mutineers, seeing their plan failing, snarled and spat on the ground. "If we can¡¯t take the cargo¡ª" his eyes gleamed with malice. "Kill them all!" The surviving mutineers roared, throwing caution aside as they charged. Gao Ren¡¯s grip on his sword tightened. "Over my dead body," he growled. The battle below deck was far from over.
Murong Xue deflected a strike, kicking her opponent back. "They''re regrouping too fast!" Zhao Ming¡¯s gaze flickered to the mast above. Without hesitation, he gave the order. "Throw the knives¡ªtarget the mast supports!" The disciples acted immediately. With sharp precision, they hurled their blades at the weakened wood and rigging. Thunk! Snap! The ropes snapped under the impact. A loud creak echoed across the deck. Then¡ª CRASH! The heavy mast rigging collapsed, sending ropes, sails, and wooden beams tumbling down. Mutineers shouted in alarm as debris fell, knocking some off their feet. Murong Xue¡¯s eyes widened slightly at the sudden destruction. ¡°That actually worked?¡± "Of course it worked," Zhao Ming replied coolly. "Now¡ªcharge!" Murong Xue didn¡¯t need to be told twice. She surged forward, blade flashing as she cut down a disoriented enemy. The disciples followed, striking before the mutineers could regroup. The hooded man¡¯s expression darkened as he assessed the situation. His fingers curled into a fist. ¡°Tch,¡± he muttered. ¡°Fools.¡± He turned sharply toward the first mate. ¡°Enough playing around. Finish them.¡± The first mate, still nursing his wounded eye, gritted his teeth but nodded. "You heard him! Regroup and counterattack!" Despite their losses, the mutineers quickly reformed, their discipline holding firm. The battle was far from over. Before Zhao Ming could issue another order¡ª BOOOOM! A massive wave slammed against the ship¡¯s side. The entire vessel lurched violently, sending combatants from both sides tumbling. Screams filled the air. Several mutineers, already near the edge, lost their footing and were flung overboard. Their terrified cries were swallowed by the roaring sea. Azure Dragon disciples fared little better¡ªsome were knocked off their feet, while others were hit by flying debris. One was struck in the shoulder by a broken wooden beam, his pained shout barely audible over the storm. Another disciple rolled across the deck, narrowly avoiding a loose barrel that crashed against the railing. Murong Xue wasn¡¯t spared from the chaos. Just as she was about to cut down an opponent, the wave¡¯s impact sent her stumbling. A stray piece of debris¡ªa thick coil of rope¡ªwhipped across her back, nearly knocking the wind out of her. She grit her teeth, catching herself just in time before an enemy could take advantage of her momentary weakness. "Tch¡ªannoying," she muttered, shaking off the pain as she slashed at a mutineer who had managed to stay on his feet. Zhao Ming gripped the railing tightly, steadying himself as his eyes flicked toward the hooded man. Their fight was momentarily interrupted, but the storm had only made things more dangerous. The real battle was just beginning.
The deck was a battlefield of chaos and blood. The storm raged on, waves crashing against the ship, throwing men off balance. The mutineers, once holding a strong formation, were now scattered, their cohesion shattered. Some clung desperately to the rigging, while others were flung overboard, their screams lost to the howling wind. Murong Xue sliced through another mutineer, her blade flashing under the dim lantern light. She was breathing hard, her clothes damp from the sea spray, but her eyes burned with unwavering determination. Behind her, a sharp voice rang out. "Still alive?" Murong Xue whirled just in time to see Gao Ren stepping onto the upper deck, his blade dripping with blood. He looked no worse for wear, though the scar on his cheek was smeared with fresh red streaks. "You''re late," she shot back, slicing through another enemy. Gao Ren snorted. "Had to clean up your mess below deck. Mutineers had a hidden passage. Almost got to the cargo." Murong Xue frowned. "And?" "Locked it up. Left my men to guard it." Gao Ren parried a wild strike, then drove his knee into his attacker¡¯s gut before finishing him off. "Figured you could use some help up here." Murong Xue scoffed, sidestepping another blow. "I was handling it just fine." "Sure," Gao Ren said dryly, ducking under a swing and countering with a brutal slash. "That why your side''s still swarming with these bastards?" Murong Xue clicked her tongue, parrying another attack before kicking the enemy off balance. "Less talking, more fighting!" "Gladly," Gao Ren muttered. Their movements synced almost instinctively¡ªMurong Xue struck high, Gao Ren struck low. She was the quick, precise blade, while he was the brute force that tore through anything in his way. They pushed forward relentlessly, forcing the remaining mutineers to backpedal toward the railing. Zhao Ming, watching from his vantage point, narrowed his eyes. The first mate was already wounded and retreating, his shouts growing more desperate as panic spread among his men. The mutineers were falling apart. But one figure remained composed¡ªthe hooded man. Unlike his subordinates, he did not panic. Instead, he simply observed, his eyes sharp, his expression unreadable. When another wave crashed against the ship, nearly knocking a few men off their feet, he let out a quiet sigh. ¡°Tch. Useless fools.¡± He took a step back, retreating toward the shadows. Murong Xue caught the movement and immediately shouted, ¡°He¡¯s slipping away!¡± Gao Ren¡¯s grip tightened around his sword. ¡°Not if I can help it.¡± Zhao Ming¡¯s eyes flashed. ¡°Don¡¯t let him escape.¡± The battle was turning in their favor. But it wasn¡¯t over yet.
The storm raged on, the ship swaying violently as the battle neared its conclusion. The mutineers, sensing their imminent defeat, fought desperately, but their formation was crumbling. Zhao Ming¡¯s forces pressed forward, gaining control of the deck. The first mate, bloodied and exhausted, still roared commands, trying to rally his men. "Fight, you cowards! If we fall here, we die anyway!" His voice was hoarse, but his determination hadn''t wavered. Meanwhile, the hooded man moved swiftly, his sharp eyes scanning for an escape route amidst the chaos. His calm demeanor had vanished, replaced by cold calculation. Zhao Ming, still positioned above, caught sight of his movement. "They''re trying to run," he muttered. His grip tightened around the railing. They couldn¡¯t let them escape¡ªnot after everything. Murong Xue wiped the rain from her face, her sword gleaming under flashes of lightning. "Then we take them down before they can." At that moment, a monstrous wave crashed against the ship, sending several combatants flying. Screams filled the air as some of the mutineers were thrown overboard, vanishing into the dark waters below. Others crashed onto the deck, groaning in pain as wooden debris scattered everywhere. Murong Xue barely managed to stay on her feet, gripping a rope to steady herself. Her breath came ragged, but her focus remained locked on the first mate. She could see him stumbling, disoriented from the sudden impact. Zhao Ming didn¡¯t hesitate. "Now! Capture them before they recover!" Murong Xue lunged forward, slamming her sword against the first mate¡¯s weapon. He growled in frustration, barely holding his ground. Behind her, the Azure Dragon disciples moved in, surrounding him from all sides. His resistance was fierce, but it was only a matter of time before he was forced down. On the other side of the deck, the hooded man made his move. He darted toward the ship¡¯s edge, ready to leap into the stormy waters. But just as he was about to jump, a hand shot out¡ªgripping his arm like an iron vice. Gao Ren. The mercenary captain¡¯s expression was dark as he yanked the hooded man back. "Not so fast." The hooded man struggled, his face twisting in anger. But Gao Ren¡¯s strength was overwhelming, and with a powerful motion, he slammed the man onto the deck. Zhao Ming¡¯s voice rang out across the ship. "Your leaders have been captured! Surrender now, and you might live!" The remaining mutineers, seeing their first mate and the hooded man subdued, hesitated. The battle had drained them, and now, with no one left to lead them, their will to fight crumbled. One by one, their weapons clattered onto the deck as they surrendered. At the center of the chaos, the ship¡¯s captain lay barely conscious, his wounds severe. Crew members rushed to his side, lifting him carefully. "Get him to his quarters!" one of them shouted. Zhao Ming exhaled, exhaustion creeping in. He turned to the remaining crew. "Secure the ship. We¡¯re not safe yet." With the battle over, the storm now became their biggest threat. The wind howled, and the waves showed no sign of relenting. But at least, for now, they had survived. Chapter 29: Aftermath The battle was over. The stench of blood mixed with the salty sea air as bodies¡ªsome dead, some barely clinging to life¡ªlittered the ship¡¯s deck. Zhao Ming wiped the sweat and grime from his face, his body aching from the bruises sustained during the fight. The Azure Dragon Disciples stood vigilant, weapons still in hand, while the mercenaries kept their grip firm on their captives. A heavy silence hung in the air, broken only by the crashing waves. "Secure the ship! Check for injuries!" Gao Ren barked, his deep voice cutting through the momentary lull. The crew sprang into action, their exhaustion momentarily forgotten as they moved with practiced efficiency. Murong Xue sheathed her sword, but her free hand clutched her abdomen, where a deep slash stained her robes crimson. She grimaced but said nothing. Zhao Ming noticed and frowned. "You''re hurt," he said, stepping closer. "It''s nothing," she replied, though the slight tremor in her voice betrayed her pain. Zhao Ming grabbed her wrist gently but firmly. "Go to your cabin. Tend to your wound and get some rest." Murong Xue stiffened. "I can still fight. There¡¯s work to be done." "You''ve already done enough," Zhao Ming said, his tone leaving no room for argument. "If that wound worsens, you''ll be a liability. Let us handle this." She opened her mouth as if to protest but then exhaled sharply. The exhaustion was catching up to her, and even she knew he was right. With a reluctant nod, she turned and made her way toward her quarters, though her movements were slower than usual. A sudden gust of wind howled through the rigging, followed by a deafening crash as a wave slammed against the side of the ship, causing it to lurch violently. The wounded groaned, and the scholars huddled near the cargo, their faces pale. "We have a storm coming," one of the sailors muttered, glancing nervously at the dark clouds gathering on the horizon. Zhao Ming turned to Gao Ren. "What¡¯s the status of the ship?" "Not good," Gao Ren replied, his expression grim. "Sails are damaged, so our speed is cut. The mast¡¯s ropes are frayed¡ªif they snap, we lose control. We need to reinforce them now if we want to make it to Beihai in one piece." Zhao Ming nodded. "Then we work fast." The crew, despite their fatigue, moved swiftly. Some climbed to secure the mast¡¯s ropes, while others patched the sails as best they could. Meanwhile, the mercenaries dragged the unconscious first mate and hooded man below deck, tying them securely. Near the helm, the captain lay unconscious, his chest rising and falling in shallow breaths. Blood pooled beneath him. One of the crew members knelt beside him, pressing a cloth to his wound, but it was clear¡ªthe man wouldn¡¯t last long without proper treatment. Zhao Ming clenched his jaw. There was no time to mourn. If they didn¡¯t stabilize the ship, they might not make it to shore at all. "Hold steady!" a sailor shouted as another wave rocked the ship. The battle had ended, but the fight for survival had only just begun.
The wind howled like a vengeful spirit, whipping against the sails with merciless force. Towering waves crashed against the ship¡¯s hull, sending tremors through the wooden deck. Rain pelted down in relentless sheets, soaking everything and turning the planks beneath their feet slick with water. "Hold the line!" Gao Ren bellowed as another wave threatened to tip the ship sideways. The crew scrambled, gripping the ropes and railings for dear life. Zhao Ming steadied himself near the helm, his sharp eyes scanning the chaos. The storm had come faster than expected, and with their damaged sails and frayed ropes, the situation was far from ideal. "Secure the mast!" he shouted. "If we lose it, we''re finished!" Two sailors fought against the wind, struggling to tie down the ropes before they snapped completely. The force of the storm made every movement treacherous. One lost his footing, nearly tumbling overboard before a fellow crew member grabbed his arm just in time. Zhao Ming didn¡¯t hesitate. He dashed forward, grasping a loose rope and tying it down himself. The wind roared in defiance, but he pulled with all his strength, securing it as another sailor reinforced the knots. "More hands on the sails!" Gao Ren ordered. "We need to keep control, or the wind will tear us apart!" The crew worked in frantic unison. Mercenaries and Azure Dragon Disciples, despite their injuries, assisted where they could. Even the scholars, though terrified, did their best to help by holding down crates and barrels to prevent them from rolling across the deck. Zhao Ming moved swiftly between groups, assessing their struggles. Some sailors were near exhaustion, their hands trembling from strain. He needed to distribute the workload before fatigue took them all. "You¡ªhelp with the ropes! Keep that secured!" he commanded, pointing to an available mercenary. "And you, reinforce the main sail with them!" The men obeyed without hesitation, their movements fueled by survival instinct. Another monstrous wave rose, towering over the ship like a beast about to swallow them whole. Zhao Ming gritted his teeth. "Brace yourselves!" The wave crashed down with a deafening roar. The ship tilted sharply¡ªtoo sharply. The left side nearly dipped beneath the water. Crew members screamed, gripping whatever they could as seawater flooded across the deck. For a moment, Zhao Ming felt the gut-wrenching sensation of the ship beginning to capsize. No. Gao Ren and several others threw their weight against the opposite side, counterbalancing the force. Zhao Ming did the same, using every ounce of strength to help push the ship back into stability. A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation. The ship groaned in protest¡ªbut it held. He exhaled sharply, his heart pounding. They had survived that one, but the storm showed no signs of relenting. "We''re not through yet," he muttered. He turned to the crew, his voice unwavering despite the chaos. "Stay focused! We ride this out, and we will reach Beihai!" The men roared in determination, gripping the ropes with renewed strength. The battle was no longer against swords and assassins¡ªit was against the raging sea itself. And Zhao Ming refused to lose.
With the storm raging outside, Zhao Ming made his way below deck. The lanterns swayed violently, casting erratic shadows over the wounded men scattered across the cabin. Blood mixed with seawater on the wooden floor, filling the air with a thick, metallic scent. The Azure Dragon Disciples sat against the walls, their faces pale from exhaustion and pain. Some clutched their wounds, while others breathed heavily, their bodies too battered to move. Zhao Ming didn¡¯t waste time. He reached into his robe and pulled out a pouch of medicinal herbs. "Take these," he said, tossing small packets to those who could still move. "Apply the powder to stop the bleeding. If you have bruises, rub the ointment on the skin. This vial is for internal injuries¡ªonly a few drops at a time." The disciples caught the medicine, their movements sluggish but determined. Those who were still conscious helped their injured comrades apply the treatments, following Zhao Ming¡¯s instructions without question. A low groan came from one corner. "Ah! Don¡¯t press so hard!" one disciple winced as his companion applied the medicine. "Quit whining. It needs to go in properly," another grumbled, though he did ease up. "At least use a gentler touch!" A sigh followed. "Fine, fine, stop squirming." Zhao Ming smirked faintly at the exchange before turning to Gao Ren, who stood nearby with arms crossed. "Do your mercenaries need medicine?" Zhao Ming asked. Gao Ren shook his head. "We¡¯ve got our own supplies. Focus on your men." Zhao Ming nodded. "Good." His gaze swept over the room once more, assessing the condition of his people. They were exhausted, but for now, they would manage. "I¡¯m going to check on Murong Xue," he announced, turning toward the hallway. "You all take care of each other. Rest when you can." The disciples gave weak but grateful nods as he left.
The candlelight flickered, casting soft shadows across the small cabin. Zhao Ming stepped inside, his eyes immediately locking onto Murong Xue. She was sitting on the edge of the bed, her posture rigid yet visibly drained. The hastily wrapped bandages on her abdomen were already stained with blood, and her complexion was pale from exhaustion. ¡°You should be lying down,¡± Zhao Ming muttered, closing the door behind him. Murong Xue gave a weak chuckle, though it lacked her usual sharpness. ¡°If I lie down now, I might not get up again.¡± He sighed, stepping closer. The room carried the faint scent of herbs, but beneath it, there was the unmistakable smell of dried blood. Zhao Ming knelt beside the bed, inspecting her injuries more closely. The cut on her abdomen was deep¡ªtoo deep. If left untreated, it could fester. ¡°How bad is it?¡± he asked, voice calm but firm. She hesitated before finally exhaling. ¡°Worse than I let on.¡± Zhao Ming¡¯s expression darkened. ¡°I need to treat it now.¡± He retrieved a small jar of medicinal paste from his pouch and set it beside him. ¡°I should get a female disciple to help dress the wound. It would be more appropriate.¡± Murong Xue shook her head without hesitation. ¡°No. You do it.¡± He looked at her, surprised. ¡°Are you sure?¡± She offered a faint smile. ¡°I trust you.¡± A beat of silence passed between them. Zhao Ming inhaled deeply before nodding. ¡°Alright. Let¡¯s take care of it.¡± He reached for the sash of her outer robe, hesitating slightly before loosening it. Murong Xue neither flinched nor protested, though a slight flush colored her cheeks. As he carefully peeled away the fabric, his gaze fell upon her exposed skin. Her abdomen was smooth and pale, a stark contrast to the deep crimson of the wound marring her otherwise flawless complexion. The candlelight highlighted the gentle curves of her waist, her skin appearing delicate and untouched¡ªsave for the fresh injury. Zhao Ming quickly pushed aside unnecessary thoughts and focused on his task. ¡°This might sting,¡± he warned before dipping his fingers into the medicinal paste. Murong Xue inhaled sharply as the cool medicine met her wound, her body tensing beneath his touch. Zhao Ming worked carefully, spreading the paste with gentle precision, ensuring that every inch of the cut was covered. His fingers brushed against her skin occasionally¡ªwarm, soft, yet fragile in her weakened state. Once he finished, he reached for fresh bandages. ¡°Hold still.¡± Murong Xue obeyed, allowing him to wrap the cloth around her waist, securing it tightly but not uncomfortably. His hands lingered for a brief moment before pulling away. ¡°You need to change into clean clothes,¡± Zhao Ming said, standing up. He moved toward a nearby wooden chest and retrieved a fresh robe for her. Murong Xue accepted it with a small nod. Zhao Ming turned his back to give her privacy, but the rustling of fabric and the soft swish of silk reached his ears. The sound of the robe slipping off, the faint whisper of cloth against skin¡ªit was impossible to ignore. He clenched his fists lightly, focusing on the dim candlelight flickering against the wooden wall. After a moment, Murong Xue spoke, her voice quieter than before. ¡°You can turn around now.¡± Zhao Ming turned, meeting her gaze. She was dressed in a fresh robe, though fatigue still clung to her features. ¡°You should rest now,¡± he said, his voice softer than before. Murong Xue gave a small nod. ¡°Stay¡­ just for a little while.¡± Zhao Ming hesitated, then pulled a chair closer, sitting beside her bed. ¡°Alright. Just for a little while.¡±
After ensuring Murong Xue was resting, Zhao Ming left her cabin and headed to the lower deck, where Gao Ren and the mercenaries were guarding the prisoners. The first mate remained unconscious, but the hooded man had regained consciousness, shifting uncomfortably against his bindings. His eyes snapped open, scanning his surroundings before narrowing in frustration. ¡°Tch¡­ bastards.¡± ¡°You¡¯re awake,¡± Gao Ren noted. ¡°Good. Saves us the trouble of waking you up.¡± The hooded man scoffed. ¡°You think this is over? You have no idea who you''re dealing with.¡± Zhao Ming stepped forward. ¡°Then why don¡¯t you enlighten us?¡± The hooded man smirked but remained silent. Zhao Ming¡¯s gaze remained steady. ¡°This attack wasn¡¯t about gold. What were you after?¡± The prisoner let out a low chuckle. ¡°Money? We were never after that.¡± His voice carried a hint of mockery. ¡°It was the cargo. If we couldn¡¯t take it, we were ordered to destroy it¡ªand kill everyone on board.¡± Gao Ren frowned. ¡°Who gave that order?¡± The hooded man grinned. ¡°Oh, wouldn¡¯t you like to kn¡ª¡± His words cut off abruptly. His eyes widened. He choked. A violent shudder ran through his body as he gasped for air. His mouth opened, and black blood oozed out, thick and putrid. The liquid dripped onto the wooden floor with a sickening hiss, eating through it like acid. ¡°Poison,¡± Gao Ren muttered, stepping back as the stench of decay filled the air. The hooded man convulsed once more before his body slumped lifelessly. Zhao Ming furrowed his brows and activated Insight. A faint glimmer passed through his pupils as information surfaced before his eyes.
[Deceased Target: Hooded Assassin] Affiliation: Low-Level Mysterious Group Rank: Cannon Fodder Cause of Death: Suicide Poisoning (Enforced by Command Seal)
Zhao Ming exhaled quietly. The results were underwhelming¡ªjust basic details, confirming what he had already suspected. The enemy had no intention of leaving loose ends. ¡°Even their own men aren¡¯t safe,¡± Zhao Ming muttered, glancing at the corroded floor. Gao Ren clicked his tongue. ¡°Fanatics.¡± Zhao Ming turned to the unconscious first mate. ¡°And him? Is he part of the same group?¡± Gao Ren nudged the first mate with his boot. ¡°Doubt it. He¡¯s just a disposable pawn. Probably bribed or threatened into helping.¡± Zhao Ming studied the unconscious man for a moment. Unlike the hooded assassin, the first mate¡¯s breathing was still steady¡ªno signs of poison. ¡°A tool, then,¡± Zhao Ming mused. ¡°One they didn¡¯t bother silencing.¡± ¡°That means he might actually know something,¡± Gao Ren noted. ¡°If he wakes up.¡± Zhao Ming nodded. They would have to wait. With the interrogation at a dead end, there was nothing more to be done for the night. The storm outside had weakened, but the ship still rocked from the lingering waves. The crew was exhausted, and those who weren¡¯t on duty took whatever rest they could. Zhao Ming and Gao Ren exchanged a glance. ¡°We should rest as well,¡± Gao Ren suggested. Zhao Ming didn¡¯t argue. They would need their strength once they reached Beihai. He cast one last look at the first mate before turning away. By morning, the ship would hopefully reach its destination. Intermezzo: Brother Zhao? More Like Brother-in-Law! Muroung Xue''s POV Murong Xue lay motionless, listening to the faint creaks of the ship as the waves continued their relentless assault. The dim lantern glow flickered across the wooden walls of her cabin, casting long shadows that danced with the movement of the ship. Though exhaustion weighed on her body, her mind refused to rest. The moment Zhao Ming¡¯s footsteps faded beyond the door, she slowly opened her eyes. Why¡­ why did I insist that he treat my wounds? Her fingers brushed against the fresh bandages wrapped securely around her abdomen. His hands had been firm, steady¡ªprecise, yet strangely gentle. He had neither hesitated nor shown discomfort, but rather, he had tended to her wounds with the calm efficiency of someone used to such tasks. Yet, that wasn¡¯t what made her heart uneasy. What must he think of me now? A noble lady allowing a man to undress her injuries¡ªwhat would others say? What would her family say? She had never been reckless when it came to such matters, yet in that moment, she hadn¡¯t wanted anyone else. The thought of another tending to her, even a female disciple, had felt¡­ unnecessary. Her grip tightened on the sheets. Does Zhao Ming think I am shameless? She replayed the moment in her mind¡ªthe way she had watched him as he worked, the warmth of his fingers against her skin, the brief pause when he first touched her bare abdomen. Had he thought anything of it? Or was she the only one overthinking? Then, another memory surfaced. When I changed my dress¡­ did he peek? Her face heated at the thought. She had asked him to turn around, and he had obeyed without hesitation. But still¡­ she had felt his presence behind her, the awareness of his proximity making every rustle of fabric seem louder than it should have. Even though she knew he wouldn¡¯t, a small part of her couldn¡¯t help but wonder¡ªif only out of curiosity¡ªhad he stolen a glance? Stop. What am I thinking? She turned onto her side, wincing slightly as the movement pulled at her wound. She was exhausted. That had to be it. The battle, the storm, the injuries¡ªit was clouding her mind, making her think strange things. Right now, what mattered was reaching Beihai safely. She exhaled slowly, forcing herself to relax. But even as sleep began to claim her, she couldn¡¯t forget the warmth of his touch, the lingering feeling of his hands against her skin. And somewhere deep within her heart, an unfamiliar emotion stirred¡ªone that she wasn¡¯t ready to name just yet. The narrative has been taken without authorization; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.
Azure Dragon Disciples Gossip Below deck, the Azure Dragon Disciples gathered in small groups, tending to their wounds while the ship rocked gently with the calming waves. The battle was over, the storm had passed, and miraculously, they were all still alive. The tension that had gripped them for hours was finally beginning to fade, replaced by relief and exhaustion. "Can you believe it? We actually made it through that fight without losing anyone!" one of the male disciples said as he tightened a bandage around his arm. "Yeah, we got lucky," another muttered, shaking his head. "If it weren''t for Senior Sister Murong Xue leading the charge, and Brother Zhao¡¯s quick thinking, we¡¯d be fish food by now." A female disciple smiled. "Not just lucky¡ªwe had good leadership. Senior Sister was incredible. She didn¡¯t hesitate for a second!" "Right? She even fought while wounded! That¡¯s real strength." "And Brother Zhao..." another disciple added, lowering his voice slightly. "That guy is something else. He took charge like a natural. Giving orders, making sure we didn¡¯t panic, distributing medicine¡ª" "Speaking of medicine, thank the heavens for that," a wounded disciple groaned as he dabbed ointment on his arm. "We barely had enough to treat everyone, but Brother Zhao actually had extras. What kind of scholar carries that much medicine with him?" "More importantly, why did he personally give it to Senior Sister Murong Xue before anyone else?" another female disciple teased, raising an eyebrow. The room went quiet for a moment before smirks and knowing glances spread across the disciples'' faces. "You don¡¯t think..." "Think what?" someone prompted, though the sly grin on their face suggested they already knew. A male disciple chuckled. "Come on, it¡¯s obvious. The way Senior Sister let him treat her wounds? And she refused to let anyone else do it? If that¡¯s not suspicious, I don¡¯t know what is." Another female disciple covered her mouth as she giggled. "And when she changed her dress? I swear, I saw Brother Zhao turn around, but I bet he was tempted to peek!" "You think they¡ª" "Shh! Don''t spread baseless rumors," a more serious disciple interrupted, though the corner of his lips twitched. "But... if they really are close, we should start calling him Brother-in-Law soon." Laughter erupted around the group. "Should we? Maybe we should wait until it¡¯s official!" "I don¡¯t know about you guys, but if Senior Sister Murong Xue actually ends up with Brother Zhao, I¡¯d feel a lot safer following them. With the way they handled this battle, they¡¯re a strong pair." "And you know what they say, strong men and strong women attract each other," a female disciple added with a playful wink. "But... if it''s true..." a younger disciple hesitated before adding with a mischievous grin, "there will be a lot of broken-hearted Senior Brothers back in the sect." Silence fell for a moment before another disciple burst out laughing. "Oh, absolutely! Senior Sister Murong Xue has plenty of admirers. If word gets out that she¡¯s growing close to Brother Zhao, the sect might drown in jealous sighs!" "Senior Brother Liang will probably cry himself to sleep for weeks," another added with a snicker. "Not just him. There¡¯s Senior Brother Wei, Senior Brother Duan, and even that cold-faced Senior Brother Feng who always pretends he doesn¡¯t care but follows her around!" The group erupted in laughter again. One of the female disciples shook her head, smiling. "If those Senior Brothers find out, I wouldn¡¯t be surprised if they challenge Brother Zhao to duels one after another!" "Ha! Like that would stop him. Brother Zhao is too clever. He¡¯d find a way to win without even drawing his sword." "That¡¯s true! Either way, this is going to be fun to watch!" The gossip continued well into the night, the disciples enjoying a rare moment of lighthearted conversation after the harrowing battle. Meanwhile, Zhao Ming and Murong Xue, oblivious to the chatter, rested in their separate quarters¡ªunaware that their comrades had already started planning their future and preparing for the chaos their relationship might bring back at the sect. Chapter 30: Confirmation and Arrival in Beihai The storm had passed, leaving behind a battered but still floating vessel. The once-violent waves had calmed into rhythmic swells, and the morning sun peeked over the horizon, casting a soft golden glow on the damp deck. Though the sea breeze carried the familiar scent of salt, the lingering stench of blood, sweat, and damp wood served as a stark reminder of the previous night''s chaos. Zhao Ming stepped onto the deck, stretching his sore muscles as he took in the state of the ship. The sails were torn in multiple places, the ropes frayed and barely holding together. Some of the railing had been damaged, and there were signs of cracks along the mast. Yet, despite the damage, the ship had endured. The crew moved with sluggish determination, their exhaustion evident in the way they dragged their feet and rubbed tired eyes. Some men slumped against the railing, gulping down fresh morning air as if cleansing themselves of the previous night¡¯s terror. Others were already working to secure the sails, cutting away torn sections and reinforcing knots. A middle-aged sailor, his face weathered with experience, approached Zhao Ming. His uniform marked him as one of the senior deckhands. "Brother Zhao, we did a full check of the ship at first light," the man reported, his voice rough but steady. "The damage is manageable, though we¡¯ll need proper repairs once we reach Beihai. The sails took the worst of it, and we lost some supplies when the storm hit. But the ship will hold." Zhao Ming nodded, his expression calm but serious. "Good work. How¡¯s the crew holding up?" The sailor exhaled, glancing at his exhausted men. "Tired, but relieved. No one''s slacking off¡ªeveryone knows we¡¯re not out of danger yet. With the captain still unconscious, we¡¯ve been relying on the more experienced men to keep things running." Zhao Ming crossed his arms, deep in thought. "Who¡¯s stepping up to lead?" Another sailor, a younger man with sharp eyes and a strong build, approached and answered before the older man could. "That¡¯d be Chen Laoshi. He¡¯s been giving orders and keeping the deck organized." Zhao Ming turned to see Chen Laoshi, a seasoned sailor in his late thirties, directing a group of men near the mast. His voice was firm but not harsh, and the crew followed his instructions without hesitation. Zhao Ming approached him. "Chen Laoshi, I appreciate you taking charge." The man wiped his brow before responding, "Someone had to. Captain''s not waking up anytime soon, and the First Mate is out cold. We couldn¡¯t just sit around and wait." Zhao Ming nodded approvingly. "Keep the ship steady until we reach Beihai. If there are any problems, let me know immediately." Chen Laoshi smirked, a hint of confidence returning to his tired eyes. "Aye, I can handle it. Just make sure you¡¯re ready to deal with whatever awaits us at Beihai." Zhao Ming glanced toward the horizon. The port city was still a few hours away, but with the storm behind them and the crew rallying together, they had a real chance of making it there in one piece. For now, that was enough.
Zhao Ming carried a wooden tray carefully as he approached Murong Xue¡¯s quarters. The scent of warm rice porridge mixed with the tangy aroma of pickled vegetables filled the air. The storm had passed, and the ship was slowly making its way to Beihai, but before facing whatever lay ahead, he wanted to check on her. Inside the cabin, Murong Xue sat up against the headboard, her complexion still a little pale, but her expression calm. She had already freshened up, though her movements were still slow and careful due to her injuries. Seeing him enter, she straightened. ¡°You did not have to trouble yourself.¡± Zhao Ming placed the tray down beside her. ¡°You have suffered wounds. Without proper nourishment, how will you regain your strength?¡± He took a seat at the edge of the bed, unwrapping a steamed bun filled with dried meat for himself. Murong Xue glanced at the simple meal and smiled faintly. ¡°Porridge and pickled vegetables¡­ You seem to have learned my preferences.¡± ¡°One does not need great wisdom to notice such things.¡± Zhao Ming shrugged, taking a bite of his bun. She picked up her spoon, stirring the porridge absentmindedly before taking a small bite. The warmth spread through her, soothing her tired body. They ate in comfortable silence until she spoke again. ¡°What do you plan to do once we reach Beihai?¡± she asked, looking at him curiously. Zhao Ming sighed, setting his bun down. ¡°I am uncertain. I cannot return to Zhou County.¡± Murong Xue frowned slightly. ¡°Why?¡± ¡°Previously, I had a conflict with certain government officials. It would be unwise for me to set foot there again.¡± She hesitated before asking, ¡°Then¡­ what if you came with me?¡± Zhao Ming looked at her, slightly surprised. Murong Xue continued, lowering her gaze. ¡°Once I recover, I shall lead the disciples back to the sect. You are skilled, and I am certain my sect would accept you if you wished to join.¡± Unauthorized use of content: if you find this story on Amazon, report the violation. Zhao Ming chuckled softly. ¡°Not at this time.¡± She looked disappointed but nodded. ¡°I had a feeling you would say that.¡± After a moment of hesitation, she bit her lip before glancing at him shyly. ¡°Then¡­ what are your thoughts about me?¡± Zhao Ming tilted his head slightly, an amused glint in his eyes. Seeing her hopeful yet nervous expression, he smiled. ¡°You are a fine woman.¡± Murong Xue lowered her gaze, gripping the edge of her blanket. ¡°I hold you in my heart.¡± Her voice was soft, almost hesitant, as if she feared his response. Zhao Ming looked at her seriously. ¡°My feelings are the same.¡± For a moment, she smiled brightly, but then her expression dimmed slightly. ¡°But you will remain in Beihai¡­¡± He reached out, gently tucking a loose strand of hair behind her ear. ¡°If fate allows us to meet again, I shall court you properly.¡± Murong Xue¡¯s eyes widened before a delighted smile spread across her face. ¡°Do you swear it?¡± ¡°I give you my word.¡± She reached into her robes and pulled out a delicate jade pendant, placing it in his hand. ¡°Then take this. A token of my trust.¡± Zhao Ming glanced at the pendant before sighing. ¡°I have nothing of equal value to offer in return.¡± Murong Xue giggled. ¡°Silly. Have you already forgotten? I still wear the bangle you gave me.¡± Zhao Ming chuckled, shaking his head. Murong Xue smirked, a playful glint in her eyes. ¡°If you fail to establish yourself in Beihai, do not think you can escape. I shall take you in and make you a proper, obedient henpeck husband.¡± Zhao Ming laughed heartily. ¡°And if I achieve great success, then you should be prepared to accept a few sister-wives in the future.¡± Murong Xue''s smile froze for a brief moment before she pouted, narrowing her eyes at him. ¡°Hmph. We shall see who tames whom.¡± Though her tone was defiant, the warmth in her gaze betrayed her true feelings¡ªcontentment and quiet joy. As the ship continued toward Beihai, the two sat together, enjoying the fleeting peace before they walked separate paths.
The ship drifted into Beihai¡¯s harbor, its damaged sails barely holding together as it bumped against the dock. A collective sigh of relief swept through the crew. From the deck, Zhao Ming surveyed the bustling city. Merchants shouted their wares, dockworkers hauled cargo, and armed patrols kept watch over the harbor. Unlike the smaller ports he had passed before, Beihai exuded an air of organized authority. As the gangplank was lowered, a group of harbor officials and soldiers approached. Their leader, a middle-aged official in dark blue robes, studied the battered ship with a sharp gaze. Beside him, a grizzled officer¡ªlikely in charge of the local garrison¡ªrested a hand on the hilt of his sword. ¡°This ship looks like it sailed through a battlefield.¡± The officer¡¯s tone was half-curious, half-suspicious. ¡°Who¡¯s in command?¡± Chen Laoshi stepped forward, wiping sweat from his brow. ¡°Quartermaster Chen, sir. Our captain is injured and unconscious.¡± The official¡¯s expression tightened. ¡°And the battle damage?¡± Chen Laoshi exhaled. ¡°We suffered a mutiny. The First Mate led a rebellion against the captain and crew, attempting to take control of the ship.¡± He gestured toward the bound and unconscious First Mate, who was tied like a hog on the dock. The official¡¯s eyes narrowed as he looked over the scene. ¡°A mutiny, is it? What about the dead man?¡± He pointed toward the hooded corpse, its mouth still twisted in agony, the poison¡¯s foul stench lingering in the air. Zhao Ming spoke calmly, stepping beside Chen Laoshi. ¡°He was the First Mate¡¯s accomplice. They were after something on the ship¡ªperhaps the cargo. When we captured him, he took poison to prevent interrogation.¡± The officer crouched near the body, his expression darkening at the corroded wood beneath the corpse. ¡°This poison¡­ whoever he was, he didn¡¯t belong to an ordinary gang of thieves.¡± At that moment, a soldier nudged the First Mate¡¯s limp body with his boot. The man groaned before his swollen eyes flickered open, confusion and pain evident on his face. The officer straightened. ¡°Good. He¡¯s alive. Let¡¯s hear what he has to say.¡± Two soldiers hauled the First Mate up, forcing him to kneel on the dock. His face was battered, his lip split, and one eye swollen shut, but he still had the nerve to glare at his captors.
The official folded his arms. ¡°What is your name?¡± The First Mate spat blood onto the dock. ¡°Why should I tell you?¡± The officer¡¯s eyes flashed dangerously. ¡°You led a mutiny, endangered lives, and now stand accused of conspiring with criminals. If you don¡¯t cooperate, we will treat you as an enemy of Beihai and execute you on the spot.¡± The First Mate¡¯s jaw tightened, but he remained silent. Zhao Ming stepped forward, his tone cold. ¡°You are no longer in a position to act tough. Your accomplice killed himself rather than speak. Do you think whoever hired him will let you live?¡± The First Mate flinched slightly but quickly masked his fear with defiance. Gao Ren leaned in, voice low and menacing. ¡°Right now, you¡¯re useful. If you speak, maybe they¡¯ll only hang you. If you don¡¯t, they might give you to the mercenaries, who have far less patience than we do.¡± The First Mate¡¯s breath hitched slightly, but he forced a smirk. ¡°You think I¡¯m scared of death?¡± Zhao Ming studied him, then suddenly spoke with quiet certainty. ¡°You aren¡¯t one of them.¡± The First Mate stiffened. Zhao Ming¡¯s eyes narrowed as he continued. ¡°No¡­ you were a disposable pawn. The real players were the hooded men. You were just a greedy fool who took their silver.¡± The First Mate¡¯s hands clenched into fists, his teeth grinding together. The officer caught the reaction and pressed further. ¡°Tell me, did they promise you a reward? A new ship? Power? And yet, here you are¡ªdiscarded like trash.¡± For the first time, doubt flickered in the First Mate¡¯s eyes. Zhao Ming delivered the final blow. ¡°You think they¡¯ll let you live? Even if we let you go, their people will find you. Do you really think they want a loose end wandering around?¡± The First Mate¡¯s breathing grew uneven. Silence stretched for a moment. Then, finally, he exhaled sharply. ¡°They told me to create chaos,¡± he admitted, voice hoarse. ¡°They said the captain was in the way and that this ship carried something important. I wasn¡¯t supposed to ask questions, just stage a mutiny and make sure we never reached Beihai.¡± The official frowned. ¡°Who were ¡®they¡¯?¡± The First Mate hesitated, then muttered bitterly. ¡°I don¡¯t know their names. Just hooded men who paid in silver. They came to me weeks ago, saying it was an easy job.¡± He laughed weakly. ¡°Easy, my ass.¡± Zhao Ming pressed further. ¡°Were you supposed to kill the crew?¡± The First Mate hesitated before shaking his head. ¡°They only said to take the ship. But if we couldn¡¯t¡­ we were to sink it.¡± The officer¡¯s expression darkened. Zhao Ming exchanged a glance with Gao Ren. So the attack wasn¡¯t just about theft¡ªit was about ensuring the ship never reached its destination. The official nodded to his soldiers. ¡°Take him away. He¡¯ll face judgment in Beihai.¡± As the First Mate was dragged off, Zhao Ming turned back to the harbor official. ¡°What happens now?¡± The official sighed. ¡°Your ship will require repairs before it can sail again. The authorities will take custody of the prisoners. If you require treatment or lodging, report to the administration office near the central district.¡± Zhao Ming inclined his head in thanks. ¡°Understood.¡± As the crew dispersed, tending to their own duties, Zhao Ming cast one last glance at the calm waters of Beihai¡¯s harbor. They had made it to the city¡ªbut their troubles were far from over. Chapter 31: Beihai: A City of Opportunities The harbor officials had completed their inspection. The unconscious First Mate had been taken into custody, and the poisoned corpse of the hooded man had been removed. With the authorities gone, the crew was left to unload the cargo while Zhao Ming and the others prepared to disembark. A group of well-dressed men stood at the harbor, their presence commanding respect. At the forefront was a middle-aged man with sharp eyes and an air of authority¡ªMurong De. His long robe, embroidered with intricate patterns, swayed slightly in the sea breeze. Though he appeared calm, the moment his gaze fell on Murong Xue¡¯s injuries, his expression darkened. ¡°Xue¡¯er!¡± His voice carried both concern and displeasure as he strode forward. ¡°Who did this to you?¡± Murong Xue sighed, steadying herself as Zhao Ming helped her down from the ship. ¡°Uncle, I am fine.¡± Murong De wasn¡¯t convinced. His sharp gaze swept over her bandaged wounds, then shifted to Zhao Ming. ¡°Explain.¡± Zhao Ming cupped his fists and spoke clearly. ¡°The ship¡¯s First Mate orchestrated a mutiny. They intended to seize the cargo and possibly the scholars. We fought back, and though we suffered losses, we managed to retake control. However, a storm hit us before we could reach the shore, damaging the ship further. We arrived in Beihai only by working together.¡± Murong De studied him for a long moment, his sharp gaze assessing Zhao Ming¡¯s composure and words. Then, he gave a firm nod. ¡°You did well. Keeping the ship intact through a mutiny and a storm is no small feat.¡± His attention returned to Murong Xue. ¡°And you, leading the disciples into battle again?¡± His tone was stern, but there was a hint of approval beneath it. Murong Xue lowered her gaze slightly. ¡°I did what was necessary.¡± Murong De exhaled deeply. ¡°We will speak more later. For now, you need treatment.¡± He gestured, and several attendants rushed forward to assist the injured.
As the injured were being escorted away, Gao Ren approached, arms crossed as he observed Murong De with mild interest. ¡°You must be the famous Murong De. I¡¯ve heard your trading house has quite the reputation.¡± Murong De turned to him, his expression unreadable. ¡°And you are?¡± ¡°Gao Ren, leader of these mercenaries,¡± he said, gesturing to his men. ¡°My men and I played our part in suppressing the mutiny and making sure this ship reached Beihai in one piece.¡± Murong De¡¯s gaze lingered on him for a moment before he gave a nod. ¡°Then I owe you my gratitude. The cargo and the scholars you helped protect are valuable.¡± Gao Ren smirked. ¡°Gratitude is nice, but silver is better. My men don¡¯t fight for free.¡± Murong De chuckled, amused by his bluntness. ¡°Naturally. Come to Murong Trading House later. We will settle the payment properly.¡± ¡°Good.¡± Gao Ren turned to Zhao Ming and patted his shoulder. ¡°You should come find me sometime, Brother Zhao. We never got to drink properly on that cursed ship. Beihai¡¯s got good wine, or so I hear.¡± Zhao Ming smiled. ¡°I¡¯ll take you up on that offer.¡± With that, Gao Ren and his men departed, making their way toward a local tavern while Zhao Ming followed Murong De¡¯s group to Murong Trading House. Murong Trading House stood as a testament to its wealth and influence in Beihai. The estate sprawled across a vast area, enclosed by high stone walls adorned with intricate carvings of mythical beasts. The grand entrance bore a plaque with golden characters¡ª"Murong Trading House"¡ªpolished to a shine. Armed guards stood at attention, their uniforms pristine despite the early morning hour. As Murong De and his group approached, the gates swung open, and a steward dressed in fine robes hurried forward to greet them. He was an older man, his neatly combed hair showing streaks of white, and his sleeves embroidered with silver thread to denote his status. ¡°Master, you¡¯ve returned!¡± The steward bowed deeply before his sharp eyes scanned the group, immediately noticing Murong Xue¡¯s injuries. His expression tightened in concern. ¡°Young Miss, you are injured¡ª¡± ¡°I¡¯m fine, Uncle Luo,¡± Murong Xue interrupted with a small smile. Murong De didn¡¯t waste time. ¡°Summon the house physician immediately. Have him tend to Xue¡¯er and the disciples. Any serious cases should be sent to the apothecary.¡± The steward, Luo Sheng, bowed. ¡°At once, Master.¡± He turned and clapped his hands twice. A pair of servants rushed off to fetch the physician. Murong De continued issuing commands as they stepped into the estate. ¡°Prepare guest quarters for the scholars and ensure they are well-fed. They have endured a difficult journey. Send a messenger to Beihai Academy and inform them of the scholars¡¯ safe arrival.¡± A younger steward nodded. ¡°Understood, Master.¡± He quickly departed to relay the message. The entrance courtyard bustled with activity as Murong De¡¯s return sent the entire household into motion. Servants, guards, and clerks moved swiftly, carrying ledgers, scrolls, and bags of coin. Several shopkeepers and traders who had been waiting for an audience stepped back respectfully upon seeing the group. A middle-aged man with a thick beard and a merchant¡¯s calculating gaze stepped forward, bowing. ¡°Master Murong, you¡¯ve been away for quite some time. There are matters requiring your attention¡ªour latest shipment from Jiangzhou encountered delays, and the new spices from the southern seas have yet to arrive.¡± Murong De gave him a sharp glance but did not stop walking. ¡°Handle it, Shopkeeper Wu. If the spices are further delayed, negotiate compensation with the suppliers.¡± Shopkeeper Wu hesitated for a moment before pressing on. ¡°And the matter of the iron shipment from Taiyuan?¡± ¡°Meet with Steward Luo later. I¡¯ll review the accounts once I¡¯ve settled my current matters.¡± ¡°Understood, Master.¡± Shopkeeper Wu bowed and stepped aside. The story has been illicitly taken; should you find it on Amazon, report the infringement. As they walked deeper into the compound, more clerks and traders approached with reports, each quickly summarizing their concerns before being assigned tasks. The group finally reached the inner hall of the trading house¡ªa spacious chamber with high ceilings supported by red wooden beams carved with dragon motifs. Large lanterns hung from above, illuminating the polished stone floors. Rows of shelves lined the walls, filled with account ledgers and valuable goods from all across the empire. Murong De took his seat at the head of a long table, his presence commanding. The stewards and attendants gathered, waiting for further instructions. Murong De turned to Luo Sheng. ¡°Have the cargo from the ship moved to the secure warehouse. Double-check the inventory¡ªwe cannot afford any discrepancies.¡± ¡°Yes, Master.¡± Luo Sheng gestured for several clerks to follow him as he left to oversee the process. Murong Xue, despite her injuries, remained standing. ¡°I will ensure my junio disciples are settled properly.¡± Murong De frowned. ¡°You should rest first.¡± Murong Xue smiled. ¡°I will, Uncle. But let me take care of my people first.¡± Murong De sighed but relented. ¡°Very well. Don¡¯t overexert yourself.¡± As Murong Xue left with the disciples, Murong De turned his attention to Zhao Ming. ¡°Now, let¡¯s talk.¡± Zhao Ming met his gaze calmly. ¡°I¡¯m listening.¡± Murong De leaned back, his sharp eyes assessing Zhao Ming once more. ¡°You did well handling the mutiny and the storm. But I¡¯d like to know¡ªwhat are your plans now that you¡¯ve arrived in Beihai?¡±
Murong De sat in the main guest hall, across from Zhao Ming, sipping a cup of tea. His sharp eyes studied the young man before him. Murong De smiled. ¡°You have no immediate plans, do you?¡± Zhao Ming exhaled and shook his head. ¡°Not yet. I need to figure out my next steps.¡± Murong De leaned back, swirling his tea. ¡°Beihai is a city of opportunities. With the right connections, a man can rise quickly. You helped my niece, my business, and the academy scholars¡ªI would be a poor host if I didn¡¯t offer you shelter.¡± Zhao Ming looked at him warily. ¡°I appreciate the offer, but I don¡¯t wish to impose.¡± Murong De waved his hand. ¡°Nonsense. Take your time to consider your path. You may stay at the Murong Estate until you decide. It will be better than wandering the streets.¡± Zhao Ming thought for a moment before nodding. ¡°Then I¡¯ll accept your generosity for now.¡± Murong De chuckled. ¡°Good. Now, tell me¡ªwhat do you know about Beihai?¡± Zhao Ming furrowed his brows. ¡°Not much. I know it¡¯s a major port city, a hub for trade.¡± Murong De smirked. ¡°It is much more than that. Beihai is a place where merchants, scholars, and warriors converge. The Academy of Beihai is one of the finest in the region, producing talented officials. The city also has strong underworld ties¡ªmany groups operate behind the scenes, controlling different aspects of trade and security.¡± Zhao Ming absorbed the information. ¡°And where does the Murong Trading House stand in all this?¡± Murong De chuckled. ¡°Firmly in the center. We deal in silk, medicinal herbs, and rare goods. We maintain neutrality, but that doesn¡¯t mean we lack influence.¡± He sipped his tea. ¡°If you plan to make something of yourself, you should start by learning the power dynamics in Beihai.¡± Zhao Ming nodded. ¡°I¡¯ll keep that in mind.¡± Murong De finished his tea and stood. ¡°Go get some rest. Tomorrow, we¡¯ll see what the future holds for you.¡±
After Zhao Ming retired to his guest quarters, Murong De visited Murong Xue¡¯s room. She was lying on a soft bed, her wounds bandaged, but her eyes immediately searched for someone else. ¡°Uncle,¡± she greeted, her voice tinged with expectation. Murong De raised an eyebrow. ¡°You don¡¯t seem happy to see me. Were you expecting someone else?¡± Murong Xue bit her lip but didn¡¯t respond. Murong De smirked. ¡°You ask about Zhao Ming, don¡¯t you?¡± Murong Xue turned her head away, her cheeks slightly pink. ¡°¡­Where is he?¡± Murong De burst into laughter. ¡°You didn¡¯t even miss your dear uncle, but you miss him? Is he your lover now?¡± Murong Xue¡¯s face turned bright red. ¡°U-Uncle!¡± she protested, sitting up too quickly and wincing from her wounds. Murong De stroked his beard in amusement. ¡°So it¡¯s true?¡± After Murong Xue shyly nodded, admitting her feelings for Zhao Ming, Murong De stroked his beard, his sharp eyes gleaming with amusement. ¡°Hah! So it¡¯s true.¡± He chuckled, shaking his head. ¡°I must admit, I didn¡¯t expect my proud niece to fall for a wandering scholar.¡± Murong Xue¡¯s face burned. ¡°Uncle!¡± She shot him a glare, but there was no real anger in her expression. Murong De smirked. ¡°Don¡¯t be shy now. If you¡¯re bold enough to admit it, you should be bold enough to face a little teasing.¡± Just then, a servant entered, carrying a lacquered wooden tray. The aroma of steamed fish, stir-fried greens, and a bowl of nourishing herbal soup filled the room. The servant respectfully placed the dishes on the table beside Murong Xue¡¯s bed. ¡°Miss, Master, your dinner is served,¡± the servant announced with a bow. Murong De waved his hand. ¡°Good, leave us.¡± The servant obeyed, stepping back quietly. Murong De turned to Murong Xue with a teasing grin. ¡°Eat up. You need strength if you want to chase after your beloved scholar.¡± Murong Xue¡¯s blush deepened as she picked up her chopsticks. ¡°I¡¯m not chasing him¡­¡± Murong De smirked but didn¡¯t argue. Instead, he poured himself a cup of warm rice wine from a small flask and took a sip, watching her. ¡°You care about him a lot,¡± he said after a moment. Murong Xue hesitated, poking at her food before nodding softly. ¡°¡­He¡¯s different from the others.¡± ¡°Oh? How so?¡± Murong Xue sighed. ¡°Most men at the sect either admire me from a distance or only see me as ¡®Elder Murong¡¯s niece.¡¯ But Zhao Ming¡­ he treats me like a person, not a status. He¡¯s smart, quick-thinking, and has a calmness that¡¯s hard to find. He doesn¡¯t get blinded by pride or status.¡± Murong De raised an eyebrow. ¡°So, a capable man with ambition. That¡¯s why you like him?¡± Murong Xue smiled faintly. ¡°He also makes me feel¡­ at ease.¡± Murong De leaned back, chuckling. ¡°Hah! I see, I see. A young lady in love.¡± Murong Xue gave him a look. ¡°Uncle, please stop teasing me.¡± Murong De sighed dramatically. ¡°Fine, fine. But you know, Xue¡¯er, relationships aren¡¯t just about feelings. There¡¯s also reality to consider.¡± Murong Xue looked up at him, knowing what he meant. ¡°You mean because I have to return to Zhou County and he¡¯s staying in Beihai?¡± Murong De nodded. ¡°Exactly. Long-distance relationships are hard, especially when you come from different backgrounds. What if he decides to pursue a life in business? Or politics? What if your father arranges a match for you before you meet again?¡± Murong Xue¡¯s fingers tightened around her chopsticks. She lifted her gaze and spoke with quiet determination. ¡°Then I will run away.¡± Murong De froze mid-sip, his brow raising in surprise. He looked at her, as if trying to determine whether she was joking. But the look in Murong Xue¡¯s eyes was serious. ¡°¡­You would defy your father for him?¡± Murong Xue held his gaze and nodded. ¡°If my father tries to force me into a marriage I don¡¯t want, I won¡¯t accept it. I would rather leave home than live a life decided for me.¡± Murong De let out a low chuckle. ¡°You really are stubborn.¡± Murong Xue exhaled, setting down her chopsticks. ¡°I just know what I want.¡± Murong De studied her for a moment, then let out a slow sigh. ¡°Well, at least you¡¯re thinking seriously about it.¡± He took another sip of wine before smirking. ¡°But who knows? Perhaps fate will surprise us all.¡± Murong Xue bit her lip, then reached into her robes, touching the spot where her jade pendant used to be. Her heart felt a little lighter knowing Zhao Ming had it now. Murong De¡¯s sharp eyes didn¡¯t miss the small movement. He raised an eyebrow. ¡°What¡¯s that? Did you give him something?¡± Murong Xue hesitated, then pulled up her wrist, revealing the bangle Zhao Ming had given her. ¡°I gave him my jade pendant¡­ and he gave me this.¡± Murong De¡¯s gaze lingered on the bangle before he let out a deep laugh. ¡°Hah! A token exchange already? You move faster than I thought.¡± Murong Xue pouted, looking away. ¡°It¡¯s not like that¡­¡± Murong De shook his head, clearly entertained. ¡°Giving away your personal jade pendant is no small gesture. And receiving a gift in return¡­ Well, Xue¡¯er, it seems to me that Zhao Ming is quite serious about you.¡± Murong Xue pressed her lips together, but a soft smile bloomed on her face. ¡°I hope so.¡± Murong De watched her for a moment before nodding in approval. ¡°Good. Now, stop overthinking and eat your food before it gets cold.¡± Murong Xue chuckled, feeling a little lighter as she resumed her meal. Chapter 32: Murong Trading House and the Road Ahead 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.
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¡ªimpressive.¡± 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¡ªI 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¡ªespecially 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.¡±
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.¡±
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¡ªif 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¡ªthese 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.