Going Out

The next day, Zhou Yuan woke up with a sense of excitement and anticipation.

He took a warm bath, got dressed, had breakfast, and was out of his courtyard before the sun had fully risen over the horizon.

He was aware that this small trip was necessary, and he wanted to make a good impression. He couldn't help but feel apprehensive as he stood in front of the mirror, but he also knew he had Qing'er's assistance getting ready.

With a deep breath, he turned around and stepped through the door.

He was ready.

It was the first time he was going out of the Zhou Clan in three years but for the Heavenly Flame seed, he needed to make this trip personally. Recently rumors regarding Heavenly Flame seed have been circulating around the capital. It was originally an extremely rare item that not many clans had access to. Even the Zhou Clan didn't possess such a precious treasure.

However, there was an organization within the capital that was rumored to currently possess a heavenly flame seed. However, they were being extremely secretive. But according to his sources this item was to be auctioned soon. The auction was an invite-only event. He had to personally attend the auction.

He had sent people to scope out the organization and it seemed like it was a very secretive one. It was not clear what they actually did.

He had no choice but to go in person. He told his grandfather that his was going to the capital to visit an old friend.

He was a bit anxious but also excited.

As Zhou Yuan exited his courtyard, his was noticed by several guards. They quickly bowed their heads and greeted him.

As he passed by a few people they too stopped what they were doing and respectfully bowed to him.

Zhou Yuan continued his pace.

As he neared the main house, several more people were lined up, awaiting him.

His grandfather was standing there and spoke.

"Yuan'er are you ready?"

"Yes. I am grandfather."

Zhou Xuan nodded. Then, he turns his head to several grounds behind him. "Make sure to protect the young master."

"Yes, Patriarch." It had been three years since Zhou Yuan was going to the Capital after lock himself in the confines of the Zhou Clan. Zhou Xuan was the patriarch and couldn't accompany him.

Then, Zhou Yuan followed his grandfather out of the Zhou Clan compound. Several people in black clothing came behind them.

A large luxurious carriage was parked outside of the main gate.

Zhou Yuan and Qing'er got in.

It was a very lavish carriage with golden decorations. The horses were also a rare breed of horse called Golden Wind Horse. These horses were a very docile species of Spiritual Beast that was suitable for traveling long distances. 

The carriage took off.

As the carriage was about to leave, the Zhou clan elders had already gathered to watch them leave.

After the carriage left, everyone started walking back.

However, two individuals lingered behind.

It was a handsome tall man wearing a green robe. It was Zhou Ling.

The other was a woman.

The woman looked very graceful. She wore a blue dress and was looking in the direction of the carriage. Her eyes had a longing expression.

Zhou Ling turned his head and saw that the woman was looking at the carriage.

He didn't say anything, but his expression turned slightly cold.

It was then, the woman turned her head.

She was startled to see that Zhou Ling was staring at her.

"Brother Ling, what's wrong? "

Zhou Ling had a complicated expression on his face.

"I've noticed you acting weird lately, Qiao'er."

"What are you talking about?"

"Sigh...Qiao'er, let's talk in my study."

"Oh."

"I'll walk you back after."

The woman the blue dress was named Jiang Qiao, she was Zhou Ling's finance.

After she nodded, they entered the Zhou Clan compound.

***

Along the way, several people had stopped to take a look, wondering who was riding such a luxurious carriage. As Zhou Yuan's carriage glided along the road, the elegant vehicle caught the attention of passersby. Curiosity piqued, several onlookers paused to catch a glimpse of the mysterious carriage and its mysterious occupant. Whispers of speculation filled the air as people wondered who could be riding in such a luxurious and grand mode of transportation. However, despite the attention it garnered, the carriage ride remained uneventful, with Zhou Yuan continuing on his journey undisturbed.