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—military 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—shops 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.
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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.”
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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.
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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—Murong 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]
* Reward: Fame +10
* Status Unlocked!
* Strength: 1, Dexterity: 1, Wisdom: 1, Luck: 1, Charm: 1
* Stat Points: 0
* Fame: 20
* Special Skill Unlocked: [Insight Lv.1]
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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:
* The Imperial Army struggling against the rebels.
* Bandits attacking smaller villages in the countryside.
* A loud man bragging that he alone could defeat the Yellow Turbans.
Zhao Ming ignored the braggart and continued walking—until 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]
* Name: Guan Yu
* Strength: High
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.”
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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 (州吏).”
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.