The convoy continued on its way. The Guangxuan Escort Agency proved highly reliable. From Bafang City to the Central Plains, their route was mostly unaffected by rebel forces, and bandits were few. Even when they did appear, their strength was limited. Most of the powers they encountered were strong local factions with established influence.0

Most of these forces allowed safe passage in exchange for a small payment of silver, posing little real danger. Last time, the trouble arose because Lei Chuangcheng and his two companions had relied too much on their strength and refused to pay the 50 taels of silver toll. After regaining consciousness, Lei Chuangcheng was filled with regret. Their arrogance, meant to save 50 taels, had instead cost them nearly all their money and valuables. It was a classic case of picking up sesame seeds and losing a watermelon.[1]0

"Damn it!"0

Lei Chuangcheng clenched his fist and slammed it against his carriage's wall, punching a hole straight through. Fortunately, they had been cautious enough to divide and hide their valuables in several locations. Yet the bundles they carried contained their most precious possessions, and losing them meant losing nearly 70% of their total...0