The streets of Beihai bustled with life as merchants called out their wares, peddlers displayed their goods, and the scent of roasted meat and fresh produce filled the air. Zhao Ming walked beside Murong Xue, observing the lively market scene.

  “This place is livelier than I expected,” Zhao Ming remarked, watching a group of traders haggling over silk prices.

  Murong Xue nodded. “Beihai is a major trade hub. You can find goods from all over the region here. If you know where to look, you can get your hands on rare items.”

  As they walked, Zhao Ming recalled something. Back at the trading house, an Azure Dragon disciple had mentioned a high-end clothing store in Beihai, one known for exquisite fabrics and custom tailoring. Now that he was here, he figured it wouldn’t hurt to take a look.

  “I heard of a clothing store that’s supposed to be the best in Beihai,” Zhao Ming said. “Since we’re already out, why don’t we check it out?”

  Murong Xue raised an eyebrow. “You’re suddenly interested in fashion?”

  Zhao Ming chuckled. “Not exactly. But I figured you might find something you like.”

  Murong Xue hesitated for a moment before nodding. “Alright. Lead the way.”

  The two made their way through the crowded streets until they reached Jade Elegance Pavilion, a renowned clothing store owned by none other than Lady Yu. The shop’s exterior was elegant, adorned with silk banners and intricate carvings. Delicate embroidery samples were displayed in the windows, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of the tailors within.

  Upon entering, they were greeted by soft instrumental music and the sight of finely dressed attendants assisting customers. The air carried the faint scent of sandalwood, adding to the refined atmosphere.

  A shop attendant quickly approached and welcomed them. “Welcome to Jade Elegance Pavilion. Please, have a look around. If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to ask.”

  Murong Xue glanced around, her eyes scanning the rows of beautifully embroidered robes. The luxurious fabrics and intricate patterns made even her, someone used to fine clothes, pause in appreciation.

  “Impressive,” she admitted.

  “Try something on,” Zhao Ming suggested.

  After a moment of consideration, Murong Xue selected a lavender silk dress with gold-threaded embroidery. The attendant guided her toward the fitting room while Zhao Ming waited near the entrance, casually observing the shop’s interior.

  Just then, a familiar voice called out.

  “My, my. Look who we have here.”

  Zhao Ming turned and found himself face-to-face with Lady Yu. Dressed in a deep-red silk robe with gold accents, she carried herself with her usual confident charm, her eyes twinkling with amusement.

  “I didn’t expect to see you here, Young Master Zhao,” Lady Yu said, tilting her head. “Shopping for clothes? Or are you just here to dote on a certain young lady?”

  Zhao Ming gave a polite smile. “Just looking around. I heard this was the best shop in Beihai.”

  Lady Yu chuckled. “Flattery will get you far, but I already know why you’re here.” She leaned in slightly. “Tell me, do you think she’ll look good in what she picked?”

  Before Zhao Ming could answer, the fitting room curtain rustled, and Murong Xue stepped out. The lavender silk complemented her fair complexion, the golden embroidery shimmering under the store’s lanterns. The outfit enhanced her graceful bearing, making her appear even more refined than usual.

  Zhao Ming paused for a moment, taking in the sight.

  Murong Xue, noticing his silence, shifted slightly. “Well?”

  Zhao Ming nodded. “It suits you.”

  Lady Yu clapped her hands together with a smirk. “Ah, how adorable. Look at how captivated he is.”

  Murong Xue’s cheeks tinged pink. “Lady Yu—”

  Lady Yu waved her fan playfully. “No need to be shy. It’s only natural for a young lady to want to look good in front of someone special.”

  Murong Xue shot her an exasperated look, but before she could say anything, Lady Yu turned to the attendants. “Bring out some accessories to match. Oh, and—” She glanced at Zhao Ming with a knowing smile. “Find something for the young man as well. A fine outfit.”

  Zhao Ming raised an eyebrow. “That’s not necessary—”

  Lady Yu cut him off with a flick of her fan. “Nonsense. A proper gentleman should always dress the part. No objections.”

  Before Zhao Ming could argue, he was whisked away by the attendants.

  A short while later, he stepped out wearing a dark navy robe with silver embroidery. The fine fabric draped perfectly over his frame, giving him an air of quiet elegance.

  Murong Xue’s eyes widened slightly before she quickly turned away, her cheeks faintly pink.

  Lady Yu chuckled, clearly amused. “Ah, see? A fine robe makes a man just as much as a fine dress makes a lady.”

  She then cleared her throat and adopted a more composed expression. “It’s only natural, of course. A man of status should always dress accordingly.”

  Murong Xue composed herself and glanced at Zhao Ming. “It… suits you.”

  Zhao Ming smirked. “That’s a rare compliment from you.”

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  Murong Xue turned away, pretending to examine a nearby fabric roll.

  Lady Yu watched their exchange with satisfaction before stepping back. Just as she was about to leave, she suddenly coughed lightly into her sleeve.

  Murong Xue’s brow furrowed. “Lady Yu, are you alright?”

  Zhao Ming also glanced at her with concern. “You should get that checked.”

  Lady Yu waved them off with a small smile. “It’s nothing. Just the changing weather.” Then, her eyes narrowed slightly as she looked at Zhao Ming. “Wait… you knew I was sick just from that?”

  Zhao Ming nodded. “A lingering cough like that could be a sign of a cold or something more persistent. Have you been feeling fatigued?”

  Lady Yu raised an eyebrow. “You know medicine?”

  Murong Xue smiled slightly. “Zhao Ming has some medical knowledge. He helped treat the wounded after our journey here.”

  Lady Yu’s curiosity deepened. “Interesting… I wouldn’t have taken you for a scholar who dabbles in healing.”

  Zhao Ming shrugged. “It’s just basic knowledge.”

  Lady Yu tapped her chin thoughtfully before smirking. “I see… A man who knows medicine and dresses well—perhaps I should keep an eye on you.”

  Murong Xue sighed. “Next time, let Zhao Ming check on you properly.”

  Lady Yu chuckled. “Next time, perhaps. For now, you two should enjoy yourselves.” With that, she gave them a knowing look before turning and leaving the shop, her laughter fading into the busy marketplace.

  Murong Xue shook her head. “She always says whatever she pleases…”

  Zhao Ming chuckled. “That much is obvious.”

  With their new clothes and accessories settled, the two stepped back into the lively streets of Beihai, continuing their stroll through the market.

  As the sun began to set, Zhao Ming and Murong Xue made their way back to the Murong estate. The trip to the market had been eventful, with new clothes, amusing encounters, and plenty of conversation.

  When they arrived, Steward Luo was already waiting at the entrance. “Young Master Zhao, Young Miss, welcome back. Dinner has been prepared.”

  Inside the dining hall, Murong De was seated, sipping tea while waiting for them. “You two are finally back. How was the market?”

  Murong Xue took her seat gracefully. “Lively, as always. We stopped by Lady Yu’s shop—Zhao Ming even changed into new clothes.”

  Murong De chuckled. “Ah, so she roped you into one of her schemes. She has a good eye for business and fashion.”

  Zhao Ming smiled. “It was an interesting experience.”

  As dinner was served, the conversation turned to Murong Xue’s departure.

  “I’ll be returning to Zhou County tomorrow morning,” Murong Xue announced. “The Azure Dragon disciples will be accompanying me.”

  Murong De nodded. “That’s for the best. The roads are still unpredictable, and it’s safer to travel with them.”

  Zhao Ming glanced at her. “Will it be a long trip?”

  “A few days at most,” Murong Xue replied. “If all goes well, I’ll send word once I arrive.”

  Murong De took a sip of his wine. “Things in Beihai are only getting more complicated. Zhao Ming, you should stay sharp.”

  Zhao Ming nodded. “I will.”

  With dinner finished, everyone retired to their rooms for the night.

  The morning sun bathed Beihai’s harbor in golden light, casting long shadows across the bustling docks. Workers shouted orders as they loaded crates onto the merchant ship bound for Zhou County. The Azure Dragon disciples checked their belongings, making final preparations before departure.

  Zhao Ming and Murong Xue stood slightly apart from the activity, savoring their last few moments together.

  Murong Xue adjusted her sleeves and glanced at Zhao Ming. “It feels like I just arrived, and now I’m already leaving.”

  Zhao Ming smirked. “Then why not stay a little longer?”

  She chuckled. “Tempting, but my father needs me back in Zhou County.”

  Zhao Ming nodded. “That’s true. But with all the refugees arriving, I can’t help but worry. Something’s driving them here, and if it’s serious, the surrounding regions might not be safe either. After our last sea trip, it’s clear that unexpected dangers can appear at any time.”

  Murong Xue crossed her arms. “Are you trying to make me paranoid?”

  Zhao Ming shrugged. “Not at all. Just making sure you stay on guard.”

  She sighed but smiled slightly. “I appreciate the concern, but you should look after yourself too. Beihai isn’t exactly peaceful either. And knowing you, I bet you’ll find a way to get tangled up in something.”

  Zhao Ming grinned. “I don’t go looking for trouble. It just happens to be attracted to me.”

  Murong Xue rolled her eyes. “That’s exactly what I mean.”

  A call from the deck signaled that departure was imminent. Murong Xue turned towards the ship before hesitating for a moment. Then, instead of saying anything sentimental, she narrowed her eyes at him.

  “Listen here, Zhao Ming,” she said, lowering her voice. “You promised to court me, remember?”

  Zhao Ming blinked. “Of course, I remember.”

  Murong Xue poked his chest. “Good. Then don’t go flirting with random girls while I’m gone.”

  Zhao Ming forced a smile. “I wouldn’t dare.”

  Murong Xue smirked. “We’ll see about that.”

  At that moment, someone called out from the ship. “Miss Murong, we’re ready to depart!”

  Murong Xue turned back toward the ship and stepped onto the gangplank, but before fully boarding, she paused, looking at Zhao Ming over her shoulder. “Stay out of trouble. And don’t make me come back just to beat some sense into you.”

  Zhao Ming waved lazily. “Safe travels.”

  The ship’s sails unfurled, catching the wind as it began to drift away. Zhao Ming watched as Murong Xue stood near the railing, giving him one last look before turning away.

  As the ship disappeared into the horizon, Zhao Ming let out a long sigh.

  “…How did this turn into me being warned not to flirt?”

  A passing dockworker overheard him and chuckled. “Young master, if a woman tells you that, you’re already half-married.”

  Zhao Ming rubbed his forehead. “…Why does that sound more terrifying than bandits?”

  Shaking his head, he turned away from the harbor, stuffing his hands into his sleeves. Beihai was waiting, and he had plenty to do.

  After watching Murong Xue’s ship disappear beyond the horizon, Zhao Ming let out a breath and turned back toward the bustling city. His time in Beihai wasn’t going to be peaceful. That much was clear.

  Making his way through the streets, he soon arrived at Murong Trading House, where the usual lively atmosphere greeted him. Merchants and workers moved about, conducting business and negotiating deals.

  As he stepped inside, Shopkeeper Wu, the elderly but sharp-eyed manager, immediately spotted him. “Young Master Zhao, there you are! Master Murong has been looking for you urgently.”

  Zhao Ming’s brows furrowed slightly. “Did he say why?”

  Shopkeeper Wu shook his head. “No, but he told me to send you to his office as soon as you arrived.”

  Sensing the seriousness, Zhao Ming didn’t waste time and headed straight for Murong De’s private study.

  Inside, Murong De was pacing near his desk, his expression grim. As soon as Zhao Ming entered, he stopped and motioned for him to sit.

  “You’re here. Good,” Murong De said, rubbing his temples.

  Zhao Ming greeted him properly before sitting down. “Shopkeeper Wu said it was urgent. What happened?”

  Murong De sighed heavily. “Your suspicions were right. Langya has fallen to the Yellow Turbans.”

  Zhao Ming’s expression turned serious. “So it’s confirmed?”

  Murong De nodded. “Word reached us just this morning. The rebel forces took control of the city, and the local officials either fled or were executed. The surrounding villages are in chaos, and people are fleeing wherever they can. That’s why we’ve seen an increase in refugees arriving in Beihai.”

  Zhao Ming leaned back slightly, processing the information. If Langya had fallen, then the entire region was at risk.

  “This isn’t just a local problem anymore,” Zhao Ming muttered. “If the Yellow Turbans continue their advance, Beihai itself could be in danger.”

  Murong De’s face darkened. “That’s what concerns me. Right now, they’re consolidating their hold over Langya, but it won’t take long before they set their sights elsewhere. Beihai is one of the few stable cities left in the area.”

  Zhao Ming exhaled. “No wonder the refugee numbers are growing.”

  Murong De nodded. “And if this continues, we might be dealing with more than just starving civilians—we could see banditry increase as well.”

  Zhao Ming tapped his fingers on the table. A destabilized region meant more than just refugees—it meant disrupted trade, increased crime, and possibly military action.

  “What do you plan to do?” Zhao Ming finally asked.

  Murong De leaned forward. “I want to hear your thoughts first.”

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