39: A Visit from an Old Friend
The following week, as Li Mei was preparing her booth for another market day, she was surprised to see a familiar face approaching. It was Xiao Han, the young boy she had met several months ago while wandering the woods outside the village. Xiao Han had been the one to help her when she had first learned to use the mystical space and had shown her the basics of energy manipulation.
"Li Mei," Xiao Han greeted her with a wide smile, his eyes sparkling. "I heard you've been doing well! I wanted to stop by and see how things were going."
Li Mei returned his smile, feeling a sense of relief at the sight of her old friend. "It's been busy, Xiao Han. The market's been kind to me, but it's a lot to handle alone."
Xiao Han chuckled. "I imagine! But you've always had a knack for this sort of thing."
Li Mei hesitated for a moment before speaking. "Actually, I was hoping you could help me with something."
Xiao Han raised an eyebrow. "Help you? With what?"
Li Mei leaned in slightly, lowering her voice. "There's a merchant in the village who has been trying to make a deal with me. He wants to buy my herbs in bulk and sell them in the city, but I'm not sure I can trust him. He seems a bit too eager."
Xiao Han's expression darkened. "I see. It's always a risk when people like that show up. I don't trust merchants who push too hard—they often have hidden agendas."
Li Mei nodded, feeling reassured. "I thought so too. But I'm unsure of what to do next. I want to make sure my herbs reach the right people, but I don't want to be taken advantage of."
"I understand," Xiao Han said thoughtfully. "If you ever need help negotiating or if you want to know more about his intentions, let me know. I have connections in the city, and I can help you navigate these types of deals."
Li Mei felt a wave of gratitude. "Thank you, Xiao Han. Your support means a lot to me."