Morning sunlight shone over the grass, lighting up the dew.
Rumble, rumble...
The blades of grass trembled, and dewdrops fell one after another, reflecting the passing caravan before shattering on the ground.
On the official road several dozen li outside the capital, dust billowed as more than thirty large carts formed a long line and slowly headed north.
Two flags flew from each barbarian ox cart: one with a blue field, red border, and the black words "Beitong"; the other with a black field, red letters, and the words "Baosheng."
Burly men in fitted black outfits stood scattered throughout the caravan, with the two characters "Beitong" embroidered on their chests and backs.
A few people in blue brocade robes looked around from within the convoy. Golden waves were embroidered on their sleeves.
"Our line of work generally does not let outsiders meddle in it. If you weren't carrying a token from the Dingnan Prince's Residence, forget setting out on the road—you wouldn't even get to see me. Of course, once you have the Dingnan Prince's Residence's token, you're one of our own. The north is unlike other places. You must be extra careful." The speaker was a handsome young man, continuously rubbing a jade Wolf Head bracelet in his hand. He wore a gentle smile and had an amiable expression.
"Since I chose to travel through the north, I have already made my preparations," Li Qingxian said.
"It's good that you're prepared. Also, Li Jingqiu—good name."
"Xiang Zizai is a good name too."
The two exchanged smiles.
Li Qingxian glanced at the people with golden waves on their sleeves and said quietly, "I heard the Northern Green Forest does not take kindly to certain people."
Xiang Zizai looked at those people as well and smiled. "You really do not understand