"Supplies?"
When he heard that Xiao Yan wanted to purchase supplies, the middle-aged man's previously impatient eyes instantly grew several degrees more eager.
He first glanced at the large hunk of iron on the youth's back, then said warmly, "Little brother, you've really come to the right person. I happen to be one of the Marketplace's stall owners. Judging by your appearance, you should be looking to buy some daily necessities, right?"
Xiao Yan nodded. There was nothing to hide; he truly was in urgent need of daily supplies.
After thinking for a moment, he handed over a gold coin and said, "Uncle, if it's convenient, could you take me around the Marketplace?"
"Hehe, little brother, you're far too polite."
Swiftly taking the gold coin, the middle-aged man's smile became even more amiable. He walked ahead to lead the way, introducing Xiao Yan to the various goods available in the Marketplace as they went.
As they chatted, the atmosphere gradually became friendlier. The middle-aged man would laugh and tease him from time to time, and Xiao Yan, who had long been removed from the bustle of ordinary life, was happy enough to listen.
After they had walked most of the way, the middle-aged man asked with a smile, "You're so young—could it be that you came to Wutan City after hearing the story of that genius young master from the Xiao Family?"
"?"
At those words, Xiao Yan's steady stride abruptly froze. He stood motionless, then raised his head in bewilderment to look toward the distant city.
What young master? What city?
His view had previously been blocked by the trees, so he had been unable to make out the city clearly. He had only felt an inexplicable sense of familiarity. But now that he was closer and could see