Before leaving the refugee camp, Zhao Ming activated [Insight] on Xu Liang, wanting to ensure the man’s trustworthiness.

  

  Xu Liang

  

  
• 
  
    Age: 30
  
    


  
• 
  
    Status: Fatigued, former noble guard
  
    


  
• 
  
    Skills: Leadership, skilled hunter, proficient in swordsmanship
  
    


  

  Seeing the details, Zhao Ming's eyes narrowed slightly. Xu Liang wasn’t just some ordinary refugee—he had once been a noble guard. That explained his composed demeanor and the respect the other refugees showed him. Even though involving himself with this group carried risks, Zhao Ming decided it was worth considering a way to help them. If handled correctly, they could be a valuable asset rather than a burden.

  With that thought in mind, he bid farewell to Xu Liang and the others before making his way back to the Murong Estate.

  Upon arriving at the Murong Estate, Zhao Ming made his way straight to his room. He needed to think carefully before making any moves.

  Sitting at his desk, he tapped his fingers against the wooden surface, his mind racing through different possibilities.

  The refugee situation is only going to get worse. If nothing is done, desperation will turn to chaos. But if handled well, this could be an opportunity—not just for me, but for Beihai as a whole.

  He listed out the key issues:

  

  
1. 
   
     Seeking Murong De’s support – The Murong Trading House had resources, influence, and business ties. If he could convince Murong De, they could provide financial support, land, or even employment for some of the refugees. But Murong De was a businessman first and foremost—he wouldn’t invest in anything without a clear benefit. How do I make him see the value in this?
   
     


  
2. 
   
     Informing Governor Kong – If he started organizing refugees without notifying the authorities, it could lead to unnecessary conflict. Governor Kong seemed reasonable, but his hands were tied by bureaucracy. Would he see this as a solution or just another problem to deal with?
   
     


  
3. 
   
     Dealing with the nobles – The nobles who demanded Governor Kong reclaim Langya would not be happy to see someone like Zhao Ming getting involved with refugees. They already looked down on displaced commoners, and if they thought Zhao Ming was using this situation to gain influence, they might try to interfere. If they start making trouble, how do I counter them?
   
     


  

  His brows furrowed. Murong De and Governor Kong will at least listen, but the nobles... I can’t predict what they’ll do.

  Zhao Ming let out a sigh, rubbing his temples.

  Should I take this slowly, securing support step by step? Or should I act quickly before things spiral further?

  If he waited too long, the situation in the refugee camp could deteriorate. But if he acted too rashly, he could provoke unnecessary opposition.

  For now, I’ll speak to Murong De first. If I can convince him, that will give me leverage when dealing with Governor Kong.

  His decision made, Zhao Ming leaned back in his chair. One step at a time.

  Zhao Ming made his way to the Murong Trading House, intending to speak with Murong De about his plan. However, upon arrival, he quickly learned from the staff that Murong De was not in.

  "He left early this morning," a clerk informed him. "He's out inspecting the blacksmiths and checking on some of our other facilities."

  Just as Zhao Ming was considering his next move, Shopkeeper Wu spotted him. The older man approached with his usual knowing smile. "Looking for the master?"

  Zhao Ming nodded. "I had something important to discuss with him."

  Shopkeeper Wu gestured for Zhao Ming to follow him inside. "If it's urgent, I might be able to help. What’s on your mind?"

  Once inside, Zhao Ming explained his idea—utilizing the refugees as a workforce to secure additional resources, be it food or security. "There are capable men among them," Zhao Ming said. "If they’re given proper direction, they could be an asset rather than a burden. This could help stabilize the situation while also benefiting Murong Trading House."

  Shopkeeper Wu stroked his beard thoughtfully. "And this man you mentioned… Xu Liang, was it? Is he trustworthy?"

  Zhao Ming nodded without hesitation. "Yes. I looked into him. He has leadership skills and experience. The refugees already look to him for guidance."

  Shopkeeper Wu let out a chuckle. "Well, that makes things simpler. If you believe in him, you should bring him along to meet Master Murong this afternoon."

  Zhao Ming blinked in surprise. "You think Murong De will agree?"

  "That depends on how you present it," Shopkeeper Wu said. "But I’ll put in a good word for you. Also..." He glanced at Zhao Ming with a knowing expression. "You’re in luck. We actually have some unused land near the east gate, close to the hills. It used to be a hunting ground, but we haven’t used it in years."

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  Zhao Ming’s eyes widened slightly. Near the hills? The same place where hunting could be done?

  Was this the effect of Fate’s Favor? The system’s passive effect had altered his fortune before, and once again, things seemed to be lining up perfectly.

  "Seems like fate is on your side, boy," Shopkeeper Wu chuckled.

  Zhao Ming exhaled and smiled. "Then I’ll bring Xu Liang this afternoon."

  "Good." Shopkeeper Wu patted his shoulder. "Consider this a test from me. Let’s see how well you handle it."

  Zhao Ming bowed slightly in gratitude. "Thank you, Shopkeeper Wu."

  The older man waved a hand dismissively. "No need to be so formal. We’re practically family, aren’t we?"

  After leaving the Murong Trading House, Zhao Ming made his way back to the refugee camp, heading straight for Xu Liang’s tent. As he arrived, Xu Liang and his wife, Lin Yue, were discussing something quietly while tending to their children.

  Seeing Zhao Ming approach, Xu Liang stood up. "Young Master Zhao, you're back."

  Zhao Ming nodded. "I've spoken to someone from the Murong Trading House. There's an opportunity, but you'll need to meet with the head of the trading house, Murong De, first."

  Xu Liang’s expression remained calm, but there was a flicker of surprise in his eyes. "Head of Murong Trading House?"

  "Yes. He holds significant influence in Beihai. If we can gain his support, it will help your people tremendously."

  Lin Yue placed a reassuring hand on her husband's arm. "You should go, Liang. If this can give our people a chance to survive, we must try."

  Xu Liang exhaled and nodded. "Alright. I will meet him."

  As they prepared to leave, a small tug at Zhao Ming’s sleeve made him pause.

  "Big Brother Ming?" Xu Mei, the little girl he had rescued, looked up at him with her wide, innocent eyes.

  Zhao Ming crouched down to her level. "What is it, Mei'er?"

  "Are you helping us?" she asked, tilting her head.

  Zhao Ming hesitated before answering. "I'm trying."

  Without another word, the little girl wrapped her small arms around him in a tight hug. Zhao Ming was momentarily taken aback, but he patted her head gently.

  Lin Yue chuckled. "Looks like you've gained a supporter."

  Zhao Ming smiled. "Then I'll have to do my best not to let her down."

  With that, he and Xu Liang set off toward the Murong Trading House.

  Upon arrival, they were led inside without issue, thanks to Zhao Ming’s familiarity with the staff. Soon, they found themselves waiting in the meeting hall. Not long after, heavy footsteps echoed through the chamber as Murong De entered.

  His sharp gaze landed on Xu Liang before shifting to Zhao Ming. "I heard you have something important to discuss."

  Zhao Ming met his gaze and nodded. "Yes. It concerns the refugees... and a proposal that could benefit both sides."

  Zhao Ming wasted no time explaining his plan to Murong De.

  “We can utilize the refugees for labor and hunting. Some of them have experience in these fields, but they lack the resources and security to act independently. If the Murong Trading House can provide land and supplies, they can work to sustain themselves while also contributing back—”

  Murong De suddenly raised a hand, cutting Zhao Ming off mid-sentence.

  "Enough talk," he said gruffly. His gaze shifted to Xu Liang. "Follow me."

  Xu Liang furrowed his brows slightly but nodded without question. Zhao Ming exchanged a look with Shopkeeper Wu, who merely sighed and shook his head.

  “Master Murong’s bad habit is kicking in,” Shopkeeper Wu muttered under his breath.

  Zhao Ming frowned. "What bad habit?"

  "Judging people by their sword," Shopkeeper Wu replied with a resigned shrug.

  Zhao Ming could only sigh as well.

  Murong De led them through the trading house, passing the warehouse and barracks before arriving at the training ground. It was an open space where the Murong Trading House guards practiced daily. Weapons were lined up on racks, and a few guards were sparring in the distance.

  Murong De gestured toward the weapon racks. "Pick one," he said to Xu Liang.

  Xu Liang took a deep breath, scanning the options before choosing a sturdy steel sword. He tested the weight in his hands, adjusted his grip, and then turned to face Murong De.

  The head of the Murong Trading House smirked. "Good. Let's see what you can do."

  Without further warning, Murong De lunged.

  The clash of steel rang out as Xu Liang barely parried the strike. Murong De pressed forward, his attacks relentless. Xu Liang countered, his movements fluid but defensive. It was clear he was skilled, but Murong De had experience, strength, and superior technique.

  A few exchanges later, Murong De broke through Xu Liang’s guard, striking his sword aside and forcing him to stagger back. The force of the impact left a visible strain on Xu Liang’s stance, but he remained upright, gripping his sword tightly.

  Murong De exhaled through his nose and sheathed his weapon. "Not bad."

  Xu Liang straightened, catching his breath.

  Murong De smirked. "You're a good man."

  Xu Liang looked slightly surprised. "How can you tell?"

  Murong De crossed his arms. "A man’s sword says a lot about him. Yours is steady, disciplined. You fight to protect, not for glory or power. And despite knowing you couldn’t win, you never once backed down. That tells me all I need to know."

  Zhao Ming, who had been watching in frustration, finally spoke up. "Did you really need to spar with him just to figure that out?"

  Murong De turned to Zhao Ming with a grin. "Of course."

  Zhao Ming scoffed. "Then what about my request? Are you going to help or not?"

  Murong De chuckled. "You think I’d refuse? If I don’t help, that little tigress of mine will be angry. And trust me, pacifying her is harder than dealing with an army of bandits."

  Zhao Ming blinked. "You mean Xue’er?"

  "Who else?" Murong De rolled his shoulders. "Everyone in the Murong family and the trading house knows that if I make things difficult for you, I’ll have to deal with her wrath."

  Shopkeeper Wu coughed lightly. "Indeed, Young Miss Murong is... quite expressive in her displeasure."

  Zhao Ming raised an eyebrow. "Expressive?"

  Murong De let out a heavy sigh. "Last time I made her mad, she locked up my entire liquor stash, ordered the kitchen to refuse me meat, and personally lectured me for two hours straight. Do you know what it's like to have your own niece treat you like an unruly child? It was humiliating."

  Shopkeeper Wu smirked. "And let’s not forget when she chased after you with a broom for refusing her request about hiring more female staff at the trading house."

  Zhao Ming suppressed a chuckle. "She... actually did that?"

  "Do I look like I'm joking?" Murong De rubbed his temples. "That girl might not hold a blade, but she wields authority like a weapon. And worse, the entire household listens to her. If she finds out I turned you away, my life will be miserable for at least a month."

  Zhao Ming tried to imagine Murong Xue chasing after her uncle with a broom, her usual composed demeanor replaced with fiery determination. It was an amusing thought.

  Murong De sighed again, then clapped Zhao Ming on the shoulder. "So, of course, I’ll support you. But," he gestured toward Shopkeeper Wu, "you’ll need to work out the details with him."

  Shopkeeper Wu grinned. "Let’s talk business, young master Zhao."

  Zhao Ming sighed, shaking his head. "I feel like I just got played."

  Murong De let out a hearty laugh. "Welcome to the world of merchants, boy."

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