Longevity Martial Arts: Grinding Experience in the Chaotic World Chapter 1101 - 574: First Meeting with Luo Qin (Part 2)

Hearing those words, Lan Yao felt a touch of irritation.

"What’s that supposed to mean? Do you believe I lack this small treasure of yours? Are you underestimating me?"

"Who would dare to underestimate you? I’m merely worried you might end up on the losing side."

"Against others, I do consider the pros and cons. But with you all... never mind. Oh, and Lan Hua, that ensemble I like should be up for grabs for me, correct?"

"We’re all allies here. Anything that catches your eye, just grab it and put it on. Apart from outfits, ensure your other trinkets are matched too, since Ping City values appearances highly. They assess someone’s status by their clothing. Those in shabby garb often face bullying."

"That explains why folks around here are so finely attired. So that’s the cause."

"Indeed, shaped by local customs, the majority splurge their Silver on garments, all to earn respect while wandering outside. In truth, it’s a fashion kicked off by King Luo, leaving ordinary people rather frustrated."

Once Lan Hua wrapped up her words, the others turned their curious gazes toward Luochuan.

Under their stares, Luochuan gave a resigned nod.

Lan Hua spoke truly; this custom had originated with King Luo. As his offspring, Luochuan had endured such teachings from youth and was thoroughly tired of it.

"Come on, let’s swap our outfits first, spruce ourselves up a touch, so folks spotting us won’t relay news back to King Luo."

At Gu Sheng’s proposal, the party rose and trailed after him.

Lan Hua guided them to the front store, beaming as she said, "Pick whatever attire pleases you; today, it’s my treat."

"No, though we’re comrades, our numbers are sizable, and this place is your livelihood. Allow me to cover the cost of the garments."

With that, Lan Yao produced a pouch of Silver and set it down on the counter.

"This is everything I have; don’t fret if it falls short."

Spotting the Silver, Lan Hua’s brows knitted faintly.

"What’s this? I..."

Before she could conclude, Gu Sheng grinned and interjected, "No need for courtesy among us. We’re no destitute wanderers of the Jianghu; we ought to pay with Silver. As Lan Yao mentioned, take it without quibbling over the amount."

Gu Sheng having voiced it, Lan Hua couldn’t spurn their kindness and took the pouch.

After some selection, the bunch had fully revamped, now resembling proper young nobles.

Observing them, Hong Mei let out an amused giggle.

"It’s spot on, garb shapes the person. A mere switch in clothing, and they seem utterly transformed."

At that, Lan Yao arched a brow with evident pride.

"We simply overlooked our looks earlier, yet once adorned, we hold our own against anybody."

Witnessing his conceited look, Hong Mei and Lan Hua burst into laughter.

"Off we go, time to snag some ornaments. Beneath King Luo’s oversight, it’s wiser to blend in."

The group concurred and promptly set out after Gu Sheng.

Noticing Lan Hua joining them, Gu Sheng lifted a hand to halt her.

"No need to escort us; we’ll manage alone. After shopping, we’ll seek out a close inn for lodging. We’ll reach out if anything arises."

As Gu Sheng concluded, Lan Hua’s forehead creased.

"You’ve come to my place; how could I send you to an inn? I’ve got ample space here, so stay with me."

"No, that would impose too much. We’re content outside."

"It’s no imposition whatsoever. I live solo with loads of empty chambers, enough for all of you."

Lan Hua ended her plea, and just as Gu Sheng opened his mouth, she scowled and declared firmly.

"Gu Sheng, you reject me time and again; do you view my humble abode as unfit for your esteemed self?"

Those words left Gu Sheng somewhat helpless.

"I didn’t intend that, I..."

"If that’s not your aim, then heed me. Lodgings out there carry dangers; better to remain under my roof."

Then, Lan Hua grasped Hong Mei’s hand.

"We sisters have only just reunited and haven’t truly talked yet. You’re a rascal, why hurry to pull us apart?"

Following that, Hong Mei clasped her hand in return.

"Gu Sheng, let’s remain here."

With Hong Mei weighing in, Gu Sheng naturally wouldn’t object. He nodded at last.

The party ventured forth, making directly for the vendors lining the avenue.

Circling about, everyone acquired several fine trinkets.

Adorned with the pieces, the lot truly seemed more refined.

Arriving at the street’s far end, Lan Hua paused and lifted a slender golden hairpin.

"Hong Mei, this golden pin would look perfect on you. Try it on."

Hong Mei took a liking to the pin and examined it via a bronze mirror.

Sure enough, it complemented Hong Mei beautifully, and a single pin elevated her to a picture of grace and poise.

As Hong Mei prepared to reply, several figures abruptly barreled from nearby, bumping them roughly.

Engrossed in the pin, Hong Mei and Lan Hua were unprepared for the push and nearly toppled.

At the sight, Gu Sheng’s features hardened instantly. He advanced swiftly, positioning himself protectively before the women.

Right before he could utter a word, Luochuan seized his arm firmly.

"Brother Sheng, that’s Luo Qin."

The name caused Gu Sheng to furrow his brow.

They’d barely settled in, yet already crossed paths with Luo Qin?

Dual lines of men cleared them from the way, lining up to form a corridor.

From afar, Luo Qin approached with steady steps.

He proceeded directly, gaze locked ahead.

Gu Sheng eyed him keenly and noted Luo Qin shared sixty to seventy percent likeness with Luochuan, though their vibes diverged sharply.

Luochuan bore a hint of Jianghu flair, yet it shone with uprightness, free of any wicked taint. Even absent his royal ties, he’d pass for a disciple of a prestigious sect.

Luo Qin, while akin in features, exuded a dark and ominous air. Though his might felt greater, it sparked an innate caution in observers.

Luo Qin’s presence made Luochuan ball his hands into fists.

Feeling the tension, Gu Sheng tugged him aside.

"Keep steady, hold your cool."

Gu Sheng restrained him, allowing Luo Qin to stride past.

On entering, the proprietor hailed him enthusiastically.

"Young Master Luo, we’ve readied the purple jade dagger as ordered. It’ll surely meet your expectations."

Those lines twisted Luo Qin’s face at once.

"Loose-tongued fool!"

Sweat beaded on the proprietor’s brow; he promptly struck his cheek.

The smacks echoed sharply, and only then did Luo Qin’s scowl soften somewhat.

"Talk indoors."

The proprietor held his tongue, hurrying in after him.

They vanished inside, and the entrance sealed shut.

Gazing at the barred doors and the pin clutched in her grip, Hong Mei’s brows drew together.

Maybe their delay irked them, as Luo Qin’s followers shot displeased looks their way.

"The store’s off-limits now; what’s keeping you lot here? Scram to wherever you came from!"

While barking, they unsheathed blades, posing menacingly.

As Gu Sheng moved to confront them, an attendant dashed up.

"Forgive us, these patrons are eyeing goods without settling the bill yet. I’ll sort it now, and they’ll depart shortly."

Thanks to the attendant’s mediation, Gu Sheng settled up fast and withdrew.

Watching his swift exit, Bai Yu hastened to join.

"Gu Sheng, we’re truly walking away? The owner mentioned Luo Qin commissioned a purple jade dagger. I reckon he intends it for the enlistment event. To surpass him, we ought to glimpse that blade at minimum!"

Noting his rising fervor, Gu Sheng smiled faintly.

"We absolutely must inspect the purple jade dagger, though the entrance is watched closely. Given King Luo’s domain, risks are unwise, so we’ll scout via the rear entrance."

Those words brightened Bai Yu’s eyes.

"Absolutely! Establishments always feature back ways. We’ll slip there! Gu Sheng, clever as ever! Onward!"

Uttering that, Bai Yu bolted forward with zeal.

Gu Sheng laughed softly and shook his head, directing the others to pursue.