34 The Merchan (1/2)

Deep and far from the Northern Empire, miles from the Bai residence was the Tang dynasty's Capital Shongo in the Eastern kingdom - the center of the Eastern Empire ruled by Emperor Li Chang.

The wide setting sky had softly lit the local roads and cities streets, reflecting brightly against the houses and shops all about.

Despite the setting sun, many civilized people roamed the social area, eagerly watching the lit red lanterns hung around the shops with profound awe and everlasting bliss.

The hearty innocent sound of laughter of small children rang, as they chased one another with a set of sticks.

As the children played, one of the children, in particular, had fallen behind, his stubby legs trotting in a desperate speed as he naturally tried his best to catch up with the others.

Very soon due to his lack of concentration, the young boy violently tripped on a rock causing his round body to fall.

”Ahh--!” He yelped.

Closing his eyes, waiting for the harsh impact of the dirt ground, the young boy could only pray the pain would be small.

However, the pain never came. Instead, the feeling of a set of slender arms held his tiny waist from falling.

”Don't try to run too fast in crowded places,” An icy youthful voice said.

Startled by the divine voice, the young boy twists his head to identify the face of the person, but suddenly, the figure nudges him forward straightening his posture.

”Are children these days always this reckless?” The voice muttered helplessly.

Quickly turning around to perceive the face of his savor, the young boy's eager eyes are met with the figure of a young merchant - his hands jabbing into his sides.

Resting on his head was a bamboo hat hovering over a partial part of his face, including his eyes and nose - merely revealing his rosy lips.

A set of grey and dark blue robes wrapped around his body with a round bamboo satchel worn around his chest and back.

His appearance was one would see of a farmer, yet the aura surrounding him represented the complete opposite of a humble farmer.

Looking at the young merchant with awe, the little boy's eyes sparkled.

”Have you done deaf now too?” He tilted his head questionably at the boy.