Chapter 131: Blooming Rose
The city shimmered under the late morning sun, alive with colors, scents, and sounds that wove together into a bustling symphony. Stone streets curved in graceful arcs, polished by time and footsteps, while elevated pathways crisscrossed above like woven ribbons. The air was fragrant with the scent of mana-rich herbs and roasted sweetbreads, and laughter echoed from every direction. It was a city that belonged to no one and everyone all at once, where the ancient and the arcane danced in harmony.
Feng Jiao Xue stood at the edge of a cobblestone plaza, the hem of her cloak fluttering in the breeze. Her eyes scanned the array of market stalls ahead, lined with glowing crystals, potion vials, and intricate weapons. She hadn’t yet named this city in her heart, but it had a heartbeat and she wanted to explore it.
Mo Tianze shifted beside her, quiet as ever. His gaze flickered between the stalls and the wandering crowds, ever alert, always watchful. He wasn’t used to being surrounded by so many people without a clear threat.
"You don’t have to come," she said softly, tilting her head toward him.
His ears twitched. "I want to."
That was all she needed.
With a small nod, she led him into the plaza, weaving through the crowd with effortless grace. Vendors called out offers in multiple languages, some barking and loud, others smooth as honey. Mo Tianze walked half a step behind her, his tail kept tightly curled around his waist like a belt, his silver-streaked fur catching sunlight in flashes.
They passed a merchant selling talismans carved from moonstone, glowing with dormant enchantments. Another offered boots designed to lighten one’s steps and lessen fatigue. Jiao Xue paused there, fingers brushing the soft leather. She considered them for the trial ahead, anything to conserve her strength.
"These are rare," the vendor said, eyes lighting up at her attention. "From the Skyward Hills. Woven with wind-silk and enchantments from the Zephyr School."
She examined them in silence, weighing their worth.
Mo Tianze reached into the pouch hanging from his side. "How much?"