Zhao Ming took a deep breath as the system interface flickered before him. After confirming his decision to accompany Murong Xue, a new system quest appeared before his eyes.


    <blockquote>


    Quest: Accompany Murong Xue, guard the goods, and ensure her safety.


    Hint: Visit the market.


    </blockquote>


    His eyes narrowed. This wasn''t just a casual trip; there was real danger ahead. Bandits, storms, and the unpredictable nature of the sea could all pose a threat. However, something felt different this time. A second notification appeared below the quest details.


    <blockquote>


    Difficulty Adjustment: Increased. Reason: Early Decision.


    </blockquote>


    Zhao Ming’s stomach sank slightly. So, the system had judged his early choice as something that would make the journey harder. Perhaps if he had delayed or refused, the circumstances would have changed. But now, he had locked himself into a path where greater obstacles awaited him.


    If the system itself issued a difficulty increase, then he had to take this even more seriously. He clenched his fists. There was no turning back now—only forward.


    With that realization, Zhao Ming knew he needed to prepare meticulously. He outlined contingency plans, reinforcing the importance of vigilance.


    After finalizing the preparations, he headed to the dining area for a quick breakfast before the long day ahead, his mind already racing with strategies to counter the unknown trials to come. He immediately went to find the Azure Dragon Sect disciples for a briefing, ensuring they were fully aware of the potential dangers.


    <hr>


    By the time Zhao Ming arrived, the disciples were already gathered in the dining hall. Murong Xue, ever composed, gestured for him to sit beside her. He hesitated for a brief moment before taking the seat, feeling the curious glances of the others.


    "Good morning, everyone," Zhao Ming greeted with a nod. Some disciples returned the greeting, while others exchanged glances and whispered among themselves.


    "Did you see how she asked him to sit beside her?"


    "Do you think something is going on between them?"


    "No way, he''s just a newcomer... isn''t he?"


    One sharp look from Murong Xue was enough to silence them.


    She cleared her throat. "In three days, we will board a ship to Beihai. I expect everyone to be fully prepared. Gather your supplies, weapons, and anything else you may need. We don’t know what dangers await us. The sea is unpredictable, and we must be ready for potential threats, whether from nature or those who seek to harm us. Ensure you have rations, medicine, and extra garments. I will personally inspect everyone''s gear before departure."


    Zhao Ming leaned forward slightly. "I also suggest we train in formation drills. If we do encounter trouble, we need to be able to respond as a unit. Additionally, for those who have never traveled by sea, be aware that seasickness can be an issue. It might be worth securing some medicine in advance."


    Murong Xue nodded approvingly. "That is a good point. Everyone, heed his advice. Also, maintain discipline at all times—anyone who slacks off will answer to me."


    The disciples nodded in unison, determination filling their expressions. With that, the meal continued with lively chatter. Some disciples exchanged strategies for handling potential threats, while others speculated about the journey ahead. "I heard Beihai has fierce warriors," one remarked. "If we do encounter trouble, we’ll be ready," another said confidently. Laughter and spirited discussions filled the hall, the tension of earlier moments easing into a shared sense of camaraderie.


    <hr>


    After finishing his meal, Zhao Ming turned to Murong Xue. "I’m heading to the market to buy supplies. Do you need anything?"


    Murong Xue shook her head. "No, I will coordinate preparations with the others. Make sure you get enough provisions for the journey. We don’t know what might happen on the way."


    Zhao Ming nodded. "Understood. I’ll be thorough. If I find anything useful, I’ll let you know."


    As Zhao Ming stood to leave, one of the female disciples smirked. "Senior Sister, wouldn’t it be better if you accompanied him? It’s practically a date."


    Another disciple chimed in, grinning. "Right? It would be a shame if he got lost in the crowd. Who knows? Maybe Senior Sister would enjoy a peaceful walk through the market with him."


    This story is posted elsewhere by the author. Help them out by reading the authentic version.


    Murong Xue stiffened, a faint blush creeping onto her cheeks. "Enough nonsense! We have important matters to attend to. Hurry and prepare!"


    The teasing disciple giggled. "Yes, yes, Senior Sister. We’ll make sure everything is in order. But if you change your mind, let us know!"


    Another disciple chuckled. "Come on, let’s not push too much, or she might actually throw us into extra training."


    Murong Xue sighed, crossing her arms. "If you all have the energy to joke around, then you certainly have the energy to double-check our supplies. Don’t let me find any mistakes."


    The disciples quickly straightened up, offering hurried bows before scattering to complete their tasks. Zhao Ming smiled slightly, amused by the exchange, before heading toward the market with a confident stride.


    <hr>


    The market was bustling with merchants shouting out their wares, customers haggling over prices, and the rich scent of spices lingering in the air. Zhao Ming navigated through the crowd, stopping by a dried goods vendor. "How much for a sack of dried food?" he asked.


    "Three silver taels," the vendor replied smoothly.


    Zhao Ming scoffed. "Three? For this quality? Two taels, and that’s generous."


    The vendor raised an eyebrow. "Two and five, young master. Prices have risen with the recent storms disrupting shipments."


    Zhao Ming shook his head. "Two taels, and I’ll take some dried fish and other essentials as well. Otherwise, I’ll find another stall."


    The vendor hesitated before sighing. "Fine, two taels, but you drive a hard bargain."


    Satisfied, Zhao Ming paid and continued through the market, purchasing fresh water and other essentials while skillfully negotiating better prices at every stop.


    While collecting his supplies, he noticed a group of sailors chatting nearby. Taking the opportunity, he approached them. "Excuse me, I’ll be sailing soon. Do you have any advice on what I should bring?"


    One of the older sailors chuckled. "If you’re not used to sailing, you’ll need medicine for seasickness. Many first-timers get sick the moment the waves get rough."


    Another sailor, a burly man with a scar across his cheek, nodded. "Aye, and keep an eye on your belongings. There have been reports of pirates lurking near the trade routes. They target lightly guarded merchant ships."


    A younger sailor leaned in, lowering his voice. "The waters have been rough lately. Strong winds and unpredictable storms. Make sure your crew secures everything on deck, or you’ll lose more than just your lunch."


    Zhao Ming frowned slightly. "Pirates and storms, huh? Any advice on dealing with them?"


    The older sailor stroked his beard. "For storms, listen to your captain and stay low when the waves get high. As for pirates, if you’re unlucky enough to meet them, either pay them off or pray your ship is faster than theirs. Fighting isn’t usually an option unless you have seasoned warriors on board."


    Zhao Ming absorbed their words, nodding in appreciation. "Thanks for the warnings. I’ll be sure to prepare."


    One of the sailors gestured toward a nearby vendor’s stall. "See that stall with the blue canopy? That’s where you’ll find the medicine woman. She’ll have remedies for seasickness and anything else you might need."


    Zhao Ming thanked them before making his way toward the vendor’s stall.


    <hr>


    The scent of herbs filled the air as Zhao Ming entered the small medicine shop. Shelves lined the walls, each stacked with neatly labeled jars and bundles of dried plants. Dried roots hung from the ceiling, their earthy aroma mixing with the sharp tang of medicinal powders. Behind the counter stood a woman in her mid-40s, her sharp eyes assessing him the moment he stepped inside. Her graying hair was neatly tied back, and her hands bore the telltale stains of years spent handling herbs.


    Without warning, she plucked a herb from a nearby shelf and held it up. "If you can name this herb and its uses, I’ll consider selling you my best medicine. If not, leave."


    Zhao Ming frowned at the sudden test but activated **Insight**. Information flooded his mind, and he answered without hesitation. "That is Bai Zhu. It strengthens the spleen and helps with digestion. It is often used to treat weakness and excessive dampness in the body."


    The woman studied him for a moment before nodding approvingly. "You pass. But tell me, where did you learn about herbs?" Her tone was softer now, but there was a trace of curiosity in her gaze.


    "I''ve read a few books on medicine," Zhao Ming replied vaguely, unwilling to explain his system’s abilities.


    The woman raised an eyebrow but didn''t press further. Instead, she gestured toward the shelves behind her. "If you''re sailing, you’ll need more than just medicine for seasickness. The sea air is damp and can weaken the body. Here, take some dried ginger and perilla leaf—these will help warm the stomach. And if you encounter injuries, this wound paste is one of my best formulations."


    Zhao Ming picked up a small clay jar and inspected it. "What’s in this paste?"


    "Golden thread, dragon’s blood resin, and a mix of secret ingredients I won’t be sharing with you," she said with a smirk.


    Zhao Ming chuckled, appreciating her straightforwardness. "Fair enough. How much for all of this?"


    The woman crossed her arms. "A smart young man like you should know—good medicine isn’t cheap. Five silver taels."


    He clicked his tongue. "Five? That’s a bit much. Three taels."


    The woman scoffed. "Three? You might as well ask me to give it to you for free. Four taels, and I’ll throw in a few extra herbs for brewing tea to ease fatigue."


    Zhao Ming thought for a moment before nodding. "Deal."


    To his surprise, her expression softened further. "It’s rare to see young people with knowledge of medicine. Would you like to learn more? If so, come with me to the preparation room."


    Zhao Ming hesitated but saw no harm in gaining additional knowledge. "Alright."


    She led him to a back room filled with grinding stones, mortars, and bowls filled with freshly cut herbs. As she demonstrated different preparation techniques, Zhao Ming listened intently, unaware that this meeting would soon change his journey in ways he never expected.