Village

Luo studied the playful young woman before him. After a moment, he answered, "My name is Zuo You."

"Zuo You? What an unusual name!" she said with a light laugh, her voice bright as a bell.

Her eyes sparkled as she narrowed them slightly, revealing a hint of mischief and curiosity. The curve of her smile was just right, as though she were offering Luo warmth and friendship.

Luo gave only a curt, cool "Mm."

His gaze shifted to the little girl playing happily outside the window. Her innocent smile and lively movements seemed to add a splash of color to the peaceful scene.

Zilan seemed full of curiosity about Luo. She blinked her bright eyes, planted her hands on her hips, and leaned forward slightly. "Why did you pass out on the shore?"

Luo's expression remained calm, his gaze giving nothing away. "I had some trouble with my companions," he replied in a low, even voice.

Zilan's eyes lit up. Her face shone with longing for the world of pirates. Clasping her fists before her chest, she exclaimed, "Companions? Does that mean you're a pirate?"

Her reaction piqued Luo's curiosity. A trace of puzzlement crossed his cool face. "You don't seem afraid of pirates."

Zilan beamed. "That's right! I admire pirates! Especially Lord Swain, who helps protect our island."

"Uh... wait, and the Four Kings too!" she added, as though she had just remembered them.

Luo smiled faintly, though there was a distance to it. His gaze remained cold, as if Zilan's enthusiasm meant nothing to him.

Suddenly, the little girl burst into the room like a cheerful bird.

"Sis! Come look! I think more strangers have arrived!"

"Are they guests of the village chief?"

"Dunno!" the little girl answered innocently.

Zilan excused herself to Luo and hurried out