The merchant enthusiastically introduced the meteoric stone in his hand, saying that it was unique in the world.

Those not in the know would actually believe him; their heart would start beating faster.

Unfortunately, Li Qiyes attention was on another item placed in the corner of the tent along with other old and broken items.

What about that thing? Li Qiye picked it up and asked the merchant.

It was a simple ring made of bronze with only one engraving - the character, Buddha. This type of writing was from an older era and wouldnt be recognized by most.

It no longer had a metallic shine due to its age and a lack of polishing. It appeared worthless and it wouldnt be an exaggeration to say that no one would pick it up after coming across it on the street.

The merchant became tense after seeing this. His eyes shifted a bit as he laughed: Customer, thats only a crappy ring not worth anything, thats why I didnt present it to you. You should take a look at something else.

Li Qiye casually put it on his finger and it just happened to be a perfect fit. It seemed to be specifically made for Li Qiye, quite pleasant to look at. The ring became a part of him.

A glimmer flashed in the merchants eyes. He put on a forced smile and said: Are you sure you dont want to try something else? A broken ring like that doesnt suit your image.

No, Im more than happy with it since it suits me. No need to pick anything else. Li Qiye smiled.

Customer, youre a man of high status. The merchants expression became bitter: Wearing this ring is beneath you, please, how about this prized bracelet? It can encompass and store anything in existence. The core is made from Crimson Divine Stone and was refined using a supreme spatial art

He took out a bracelet with a blinding light, immediately illuminating the tent. Even a fool could tell that this was a priceless treasure, countless levels above the broken ring.

The ring looked shabbier in comparison. The two werent on the same plane of value.

Customer, what do you think? Since our meeting is fateful, Ill sell the bracelet to you at a big discount, okay? It is suitable for your status, unlike that broken ring. The merchant praised the bracelet.

Its not bad, definitely capable of taking in a realm. Li Qiye glanced at it and said.

Right, take the bracelet and forget about the ring. The merchant laughed and tried to exchange the two.

Nah. Li Qiye immediately refused: The ring is crappy but I believe it is connected with me by fate so I want it. I dont care for other treasures.

The merchants expression became worse and worse.

Anyone else would think that Li Qiye was crazy for picking the ring over the bracelet. Even a blind person knew which to pick so Li Qiyes choice was inscrutable.

How much for this ring? Li Qiye smirked.

Well The merchant rubbed his palms together, looking a bit awkward as if he didnt know how to price it.

You dont want to sell it? Li Qiyes half-smile scared the merchant.

Of course I do! The merchant closed his eyes and gritted his teeth: But keep in mind that this ring is my familys heirloom. My mother passed it down to me and wanted me to give it to my future wife. Its just that I still havent found one yet despite my old age. If I were to lose the ring, Mother would destroy me

He complained while wearing a sad expression as if he was telling the truth.

Name the price. Li Qiye pushed on.

The ring itself is nothing but it has special significance. The merchant didnt know what the price should be.

In my opinion, its not worth a single coin. Li Qiye said: But since you came all this way here to set up a stand, Ill be nice enough to give you one. He then tossed a coin towards the merchant.

The merchant instinctively caught the coin and then stared at it, bewildered. He became speechless, unable to express his emotions and thoughts.

Fine, fine, even one coin is still money, at least I didnt lose everything. The merchant had no choice but to accept his fate. He carefully put away the coin as if it was an exorbitant sum.

Li Qiye smiled and ignored what had just transpired and the pain inflicted.

Customer, do you want to look at anything else? My treasures are from places all over the world, theyre magical yet fairly priced. The merchant introduced other treasures.

Not good enough. Li Qiye glanced at them and lacked interest.

Sigh, its not easy doing small business recently. Its too hot here too, just selling one or two items is enough to thank the heaven. Its impossible to take care of a family like this The merchant couldnt do anything else and gave up. He started complaining and let everything out.

Just give up if you cant do it, stop complaining. Li Qiye stabbed him instead of consoling.

I want to do that too, Customer. The merchant said: But thats easier said than done. I have the old and young to take care of, theyre all crying for food so I cant just quit

The merchant took advantage of having someone to speak with and complained his heart out regarding his family situation.

Then let me take care of your wife and kids. Li Qiye smilingly joked.

Anyone would become furious after hearing this disrespectful comment and might go even as far as taking out their weapon.

However, the merchant seemed fine. He heartily laughed and said: Thats a good idea, really a good idea. Then Customer, you can take care of my whole family then. I hope youll be able to deal with the messes

These two strangers were saying some ridiculous things. The merchant actually handed his whole family over to Li Qiye who simply chuckled at the idea.

Its getting dark and itll be dangerous. Customer, you should move on. Have another drink first for the journey so you wont be thirsty. The merchant looked up at the sky before handing another ladle filled with water.

Li Qiye drank the whole thing and left without saying another word.

Watch out for the jackals and wolves, especially the ones who wear yellow robes. The merchant shouted as he was leaving. [1]

Li Qiye didnt answer and walked across the desert. If he were to look back, he would find that there was nothing near the broken wall. The tent and the merchant were nowhere to be found.

Others would think that they have just met a ghost or that it was only a dream. However, Li Qiye still had that bronze ring on his finger. Moreover, he didnt look back once, not caring at all about the meeting.

1. Jackals and wolves are idioms for evil people