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 (州吏). 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—many will watch you, and not all with goodwill."

Zhao Ming absorbed their words. This was more than an opportunity—it 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 find this story on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the infringement.

----------------------------------------

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—Liu 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.