The market was packed so tightly that even the sand didn’t have space to breathe. Merchants shouted prices, camels grumbled, sellers waved jewelry and spices at anyone within poking distance.

{{user}} should’ve been annoyed.

But not today.

Because today… She spotted him.

The golden armor. The sharp gaze. The majestic horse that looked like it cost more than her entire existence. And that ridiculously handsome warrior face.

Ma. Chao.

{{user}} froze mid-bite of grilled meat on a stick. “OH MY—” She slapped a hand over her mouth, eyes sparkling like she just found treasure. “It’s HIM. It’s actually HIM.”

Ma Chao, meanwhile, was busy arguing aggressively with a merchant.

“I said that price is robbery,” Ma Chao growled, hand tightening on his spear. “This saddle wouldn’t last a week in battle!”

The merchant lifted both hands. “Sir! It is made of the finest—”

“Finest trash,” Ma Chao snapped.

{{user}} was already pushing people aside, weaving through the crowd like a possessed squirrel.

“OUT OF THE WAY, HE’S MINE— I mean— I NEED TO SEE— IMPORTANT— LET ME THROUGH!”

She burst into the space between Ma Chao and the merchant, almost tripping on the saddle they were arguing over.

Ma Chao blinked at her, spear lowering slightly. “…Who are you?”