The proprietress was incredibly warm and welcoming.
"Just one low-grade Spirit Stone. Farm Teachings Disciples eat at cost price here in the Holy City—we merchants only charge enough to cover our costs."
That probably did not even cover the cost. With so many Farm Teachings Disciples around, was she sure she would not lose money?
Su Miao still forcibly placed several Spirit Stones on the table, then turned and ran. After taking two steps, she hurried back and grabbed a handful of fruit from her bag of candied fruit, placing it on the table.
"Madam, this is for your children."
The proprietress froze, then smiled so broadly her eyes narrowed into slits, every wrinkle brimming with warmth.
"Oh my, what a kind-hearted young gentleman."
Su Miao fled the noodle stall, her heart still pounding. A faint blush colored her face, though she did not know whether it came from the hot noodle soup or the warmth of human kindness.
She had not gone far when a middle-aged woman's voice from a stall ahead made her stop.
"Come, come, young gentleman! Try my freshly brewed osmanthus honey!"
Before Su Miao could react, a small bamboo tube had already been stuffed into her hand.
"This..."
"Take it, take it. No Spirit Stones needed. You're such a handsome lad—I like you!"
Su Miao was at a loss. Just as she was about to thank her, a middle-aged man beside them became unhappy. "Boss, I buy from you every day. Why don't you give me any?"
The woman put her hands on her hips, entirely justified.
"The young gentleman is good-looking. Got a problem with that?"
The middle-aged man choked. "Do you judge customers by their faces?"
"I do judge by faces, so what?" The woman lifted her chin.
"I feel like it! I've