As the carriage rattled down the road, Andy glanced at Feng Yun, curiosity flickering in his eyes.
"But how are you planning to enter the city?" he asked, his tone tinged with concern.
Feng Yun's gaze shifted toward him, his sharp eyes narrowing. "Are outsiders not allowed inside?"
Andy chuckled, shaking his head. "No, no. Outsiders are welcome. But you'll need identification."
Feng Yun's expression darkened slightly. He lowered his gaze, his voice carrying a tinge of regret. "Ah… they took my ID as well."
Andy's face grew thoughtful. "Do you know anyone inside the kingdom who can vouch for you? Maybe a relative, a friend?"
Feng Yun exhaled, shaking his head. "No. I live in the mountains." His voice was flat, matter-of-fact.
Andy clicked his tongue. "That's a problem. The guards won't let you in without an ID. It's a strict rule."
Feng Yun rubbed his chin, deep in thought. Andy, watching him closely, smirked to himself.
"This is my chance," Andy thought, a glint of mischief flashing in his eyes. "I'll make him owe me a favor, then get him to help with these heavy crates. Free labor and more money for my drinks—perfect."
He waved a hand in front of Feng Yun's face, snapping him from his thoughts. "Hey, don't worry, my friend." Andy grinned. "I have a plan. Just hide in the back of my carriage, behind the fruit crates. Once we're inside, I'll let you know when it's safe to come out."
Feng Yun's lips parted slightly, his eyes glistening with gratitude. He lowered his head in what seemed like deep appreciation. "Truly… thank you. This means a lot to me."
Andy's chest swelled with pride, and he let out a hearty chuckle. "Come on, don't thank me so much!" He patted his chest. "If I don't help those in need, who will help me when I need it?"
Feng Yun said nothing, his expression unreadable.
But inside, he was smirking. "People like him are so easy to manipulate. Make them feel like heroes, and they'll walk straight into your trap."
As they neared the city gates, Feng Yun's eyes flicked ahead. Guards in polished armor stood at their posts, surveying every traveler with sharp, practiced scrutiny.
He whispered, "I should hide now. The guards are just ahead."
Andy glanced toward the gate, then nodded hurriedly. "Yeah, yeah, get in the back. And don't make a sound."
Feng Yun slipped into the back of the carriage, vanishing behind the crates of fruit.
Andy exhaled and straightened his posture as the guard approached.
"Welcome to Alex Kingdom! Please present your identification."
Andy pulled out his ID and handed it over with a charming smile. The guard examined it, then nodded, stepping aside. "You're clear to enter. Enjoy your stay."
As the gates opened, the carriage rolled into the bustling city.
Once inside, Andy called back in a hushed voice, "Alright, you're good. You can come out now."
Feng Yun emerged, brushing the dust off his clothes before settling beside Andy.
"Thank you, Mr. Andy. I truly appreciate it." His voice was smooth, almost polite.
Andy grinned. "No need to be so formal!" Then, as if just remembering something, his eyes twinkled mischievously. "But hey… I never got your name."
Feng Yun's expression remained calm.
"I'm sorry to interrupt, but you can drop me off here."
Andy blinked. "Huh? But we just got inside."
Feng Yun offered a small, polite smile but remained firm. "Here is fine."
Andy sighed dramatically, pulling the carriage to a stop. "Alright, alright. But hey, remember—"
"You owe me one."
Before he could finish his sentence, Feng Yun cut him off, his voice flat and unyielding.
"I don't owe you anything."
Andy's grin froze. "Huh?"
Feng Yun stepped off the carriage, his eyes scanning the vibrant city. The streets were alive—crowds bustled from one shop to another, food vendors called out their specialties, and merchants flaunted exotic wares. The air was thick with the scent of fresh bread, sizzling meats, and fragrant spices.
"This world isn't so different from my last," Feng Yun mused. "But the culture and attire… interesting."
But his moment of observation was short-lived.
A furious roar erupted behind him.
"YOU UNGRATEFUL BASTARD!"
Feng Yun turned lazily, watching as Andy leaped off the carriage, storming toward him with wide, livid eyes.
The streets fell silent. Onlookers paused, curiosity gleaming in their gazes.
Feng Yun let out a quiet chuckle. "Human nature doesn't change. No matter the world, people love a public spectacle."
Andy's face was red with rage. "I helped you, and now you're just walking away?!"
Feng Yun met his furious glare with calm, unwavering eyes. "I never asked for your help."
Andy recoiled. "W-what are you saying?! I gave you a ride, smuggled you into the city—" His voice dropped into a menacing whisper. "And if you don't help me now, I'll report you. You hear me? I'll tell the guards exactly how you got in here."
A few gasps rippled through the crowd.
Feng Yun's smirk deepened. "Go ahead."
Andy faltered. "W-what?"
Feng Yun took a step closer, lowering his voice just enough for Andy to hear. "Go to the guards. Tell them everything. But ask yourself this…"
His gaze was piercing, sharp as a blade. "If they find out I entered illegally, what do you think will happen to you?"
Andy swallowed.
"I'll tell you," Feng Yun continued, his voice like silk laced with venom. "You'll be thrown in prison right alongside me. You were the one who smuggled me in, after all."
Andy's face drained of color.
"S-so what?" He stammered. "They won't be that harsh."
Feng Yun tilted his head, smirking. "Really? You think the king will be lenient to someone delivering gifts to him, only to be caught sneaking a stranger into his city?"
Andy's body stiffened.
Feng Yun chuckled softly. "So tell me, Andy…" His voice turned mocking. "Still want to go to the guards?"
Andy took a shaky step back. His lips parted, but no words came.
The crowd, now deeply invested, watched in silence.
Andy clenched his fists, then suddenly turned on his heel, stomping back toward his carriage. "Tch. Whatever. Just don't let me see your face again."
Feng Yun let out an amused exhale. "I'll keep that in mind."
As Andy rode off, the crowd began dispersing, whispers of "Did you see that?" and "That was intense…" lingering in the air.
Feng Yun smirked to himself, dusting off his sleeves as he turned toward the deeper parts of the city.
"Pathetic."
His gaze flickered with amusement. "People love to think they have power. Until you remind them how powerless they really are."
With that, Feng Yun stepped forward, vanishing into the sea of people.