Evening shadows stretched across the town by the time they returned from selling the tiger.
Yue Zilan stepped out of the carriage. And she looked around the bustling town,
Her gaze immediately locked on Wang Shun and Lu Hong. Both men now wore fresh, neat clothing, the coarse fabric replaced with sturdy, well-fitted robes. Her eyes narrowed, and then she looked at herself—still wrapped in the same old garment she had worn for years, frayed at the edges, faded by time.
Her lips pressed into a thin line
"Those who don't know would think I'm your servant"
The two men exchanged helpless glances. It's not our fault you dressed like this. they thought silently, but dared not speak aloud.
Is there a reputable cloth shop in town? One where the rich buy their robes?
"Yes, Miss," Lu Hong replied quickly.
Then drive us there.
Before long, the carriage slowed and came to a halt at the corner of a lively street. Lanterns swayed in the twilight, and The merchants' voices rang out, shouting prices over the clamor of the crowd.Before them stood a fine clothing shop, its signboard freshly painted, silk gowns swaying proudly from the windows.
After she went inside, her two servants followed closely behind.As soon as they entered, the shopkeeper's eyes landed on the strange trio.
Two middle-aged men accompanied a poor but beautiful girl.
To the shopkeeper, it looked as though she had been kidnapped, and she narrowed her eyes at the two men.
The men noticed her look at the same time. They could only sigh—for even if they said they were the true captives here, no one would believe them.
Who could guess that the petite little girl in front of them was a devil no one could offend—only regret would remain after offending her?
Yue Zilan noticed the shopkeeper's pitiful gaze toward her and felt confused. She didn't think much of it and looked around.
The embroidered gowns and flower-patterned skirts around her held no appeal.
She was unsatisfied and shook her head without saying anything.
Suddenly, her gaze stopped before a set of dark-blue martial robes displayed on a wooden stand. She gave a small satisfied nod.
Nearby Scarface wang noticed every flicker of her expression.He immediately ordered,
Shopkeeper, bring that dark-blue robe here for our miss to inspect.
The shopkeeper looked confused by what she heard, but she didn't think further. Without delay, she brought out the deep-blue travel robe and presented it to her.
Its fabric was plain but sturdy, the wide sleeves tied back with dark cuffs. A fitted belt drew the waist in, while the skirt portion fell long and loose—easy for riding or walking. The robe carried none of the frills of a noblewoman's gown; instead, it looked sharp and neat, carrying a faint martial air.
When she ran her fingers across the cloth, the material felt firm yet light—perfect for someone who spent more time on the road than at home.
The shopkeeper smiled and said,
"This is favored by young warriors and wanderers. Strong seams, durable weave, and easy to move in."
"Where can I change?" she asked.
The shopkeeper led her to the inner room reserved for women.Some time later, the inner room door creaked open.
Both the shopkeeper and the two men were mesmerized and shocked by the beauty before them.
A cold, chilling gaze swept over the two men and the shopkeeper woman.
The two men immediately came to their senses and bowed their heads low.
The shopkeeper woman met her gaze head-on and almost collapsed as a chill ran down her spine.
When she glanced again, she saw the two men bowed deeply toward the young girl—who was now smiling sweetly at them. In that instant, the pressure disappeared without a trace.
Finally, the shopkeeper realized the truth. Lowering her head respectfully, she said,
"Miss, the outfit suits you perfectly"
Yue Zilan revealed a satisfied smile and sat on the chair. Looking at Wang Shun, she ordered,Bring the wooden chest over here.
After he brought it over, she placed the chest on her lap and gently caressed it.
She then looked around and pointed at several high quality bolts of fabric
This one, this one, and this one—make ten sets in same style as the dark blue robe, using high-quality, durable cloth. How much will it cost?
The shopkeeper quickly calculated and replied,
"Miss, the total is 2,200 taels after considering all expenses. But for you, I will make it 2,000."
"Very well. But it must be finished within two days."
After giving the order, she opened her wooden chest. Her smile faltered slightly as she handed the silver notes to the shopkeeper.
The shopkeeper accepted them happily and sent off her wealthy customers.
After getting back into the carriage, Yue Zilan ordered the two men in a saddened voice while looking nearly half emptied wooden chest.
"Find an inn to stay."