Central Continent, Qi.
Qi lay in the southern part of the continent's central region. While the northern lands were still in the grip of bitter winds, spring had already begun to stir here. A young martial artist entered the city, travel-worn, and asked a kindly-looking old woman for directions. "Ma'am, sorry to bother you. Do you know how to get to Lishui Lane in Changchun Ward?"
The old woman raised a hand and pointed him in the right direction.
Qi had weathered many storms in recent years, and even its capital had endured several bouts of warfare. Signs of damage were visible everywhere. The farther the young martial artist walked toward Changchun Ward, the lower the surrounding buildings became. It was plain they had gone without repairs; this was hardly a fine neighborhood where high officials and nobles lived. Even so, Changchun Ward had a warmth and bustle unlike anywhere else. Ordinary folk could be seen everywhere, rushing about to make a living. Vendors hawked their wares along the street, and mischievous children ran about, laughing and playing. The atmosphere infected the young martial artist, too.
A faint smile tugged at his lips, and his stride grew longer.
After asking a few more passersby, he finally stopped in front of a private residence and gently knocked. He waited until someone inside answered.
"Coming!"
The instant he heard the voice, the young martial artist threw his arms around the person as the wooden door opened. "Sixth Brother, I'm back!"
The man froze for a moment before realizing who it was.
He raised a hand and pushed him away. "Let go. You reek."
The young martial artist bent his arm and sniffed. "What smells?"
Fang Yan looked at the young martial artist's face, which had darkened several shades, and said irritably, "Your