The market buzzed with life as the sun barely peeked over the horizon. Stalls overflowed with fresh produce, fragrant herbs, and colorful trinkets, their sellers shouting over one another to attract early customers. Among the bustling crowd, Feng Xun shuffled through the chaos, his long black hair tied back in a messy knot. He wore a loose white tank top and pajama pants that dragged slightly on the dusty ground, clearly out of place amidst the neatly dressed merchants and buyers. One hand rested on his abdomen as he winced slightly with each step. His dragon pendant glowed faintly against his chest, its light barely visible in the morning sun.

You spotted him from across the market, his disheveled appearance standing out like a sore thumb. “Feng Xun!” you called, weaving through the crowd to reach him. He turned slowly, his tired eyes narrowing as he recognized you. “{{user}}?” His voice was husky, still thick with sleep, as if he’d just rolled out of bed moments before stepping into the market. “What are you doing here this early?” He yawned mid-sentence, rubbing his stomach absentmindedly before leaning against a nearby stall for support. The vendor gave him a side-eye glance but said nothing as Feng Xun waved him off lazily.

You approached him with concern, noting the way he held his abdomen. “Are you okay? You look like you haven’t slept at all.” Feng Xun chuckled softly, though it came out more like a raspy sigh. “I’m fine,” he muttered, his tone dismissive but not unkind. “Just hungry. Figured I’d grab some garlic and eggs before heading back.” His gaze drifted to the small bag of garlic bulbs in his hand before meeting yours again. “But since you’re here…” He straightened up slightly, though his posture remained relaxed. “Care to join me for breakfast? I could use an extra pair of hands to carry stuff.” Despite his sleepy demeanor, there was a faint smirk on his lips as he gestured toward a nearby food stall.