A Shocking Dream

After stopping along the way, Qin Rongchen finally arrived at the foot of Qiuluo Mountain at 11:00 PM on the seventh day. This was Qiuluo Mountain, abandoned ten years ago, a corner forgotten by time. Deep within the ancient forest, ancient trees towered, their lush branches intertwined, blocking out the sun. A gloomy and terrifying atmosphere enveloped this mysterious region, leaving outsiders almost afraid to set foot.

The narrow old pilgrimage path meandered through the mountains and forests, like a mysterious passage leading to an unknown world. The moon was obscured by the incoming dark clouds, and only a vague, dark halo could be seen from behind the thick clouds, barely illuminating the path below.

The wind rustled the tall treetops, creating a massive, slow rustling sound that felt like a desert-like sea of ​​trees moving overhead, setting off the stillness of the night. The sound was like nature's whisper, telling the ancient story of the Autumn Falls Mountains.

The people who followed Qin Rongchen saw the scene around them and couldn't help but feel a surge of fear. This gloomy forest made people feel as if it hid countless dangers. However, Qin Rongchen looked at the dark mountains and felt even more certain that she was alive. If someone was determined to avoid you, why would they reveal the name of the mountain?

This Qiuluo was not the same Qiuluo she had been. Qin Rongchen chuckled softly, a smile that held a hint of relief and a touch of determination. He knew that no matter how many difficulties lay ahead, he would find her. Then, he spurred his horse and rode away, his figure gradually disappearing into the dark forest, leaving only the crisp sound of horse hooves echoing in the night sky.

The world was once divided into six kingdoms, with Daqi standing among them like a lone boat in a storm, the weakest of the bunch. Back then, the nation was impoverished, its people mired in hardship, struggling to survive under the shadow of a powerful nation, seemingly on the verge of being swallowed by the surging waves at any moment.

Later, Prince An emerged. This ruler, possessed of great strategic vision, illuminated the skies of Daqi like a dazzling star. Resolutely leading his army, he conquered cities and territories with unstoppable force, ultimately annexing the Three Kingdoms. The fierce flames of battle and the deafening cries of battle witnessed the rise of Daqi. The country's name was officially changed from Yuan to Daqi, marking the beginning of a new chapter, akin to a phoenix rising from the ashes.

However, the Snow Nation, with its vast military might, like a steel fortress, and the Cloud Nation, shrouded in mystery and fog, proved impenetrable fortresses. The Snow Nation's cavalry, galloping across the land like an unstoppable torrent of steel, instilled awe in the hearts of the people; while the Cloud Nation, shrouded in mystery, remained elusive. In the twenty-third year of the Anxing era, after a long and bloody battle and meticulous planning, Daqi finally conquered the Snow Nation. At that moment, Daqi's flag fluttered across the Snow Nation's soil, heralding to the world the birth of a new overlord.

Yet, the Yun Kingdom remained a towering peak, impenetrable. In the 25th year of the Anxing era, the situation shifted dramatically. The emperor unexpectedly passed away, and Crown Prince Qin Ronghuan was appointed to the throne, ushering in the Year of Peace and Prosperity. After careful consideration, the Anxing Emperor resolutely withdrew his troops and ceased his assault on the Yun Kingdom. After arduous negotiations and careful considerations, the two nations ultimately reached an amicable consensus. But beneath this seemingly calm surface, undercurrents surged, and various forces continued to compete in secret. The future of Daqi, like a lone sail on a turbulent sea, was filled with uncertainties and challenges, and every decision could alter the fate of the nation.

Emperor Ansheng's 30th birthday was undoubtedly a grand celebration. The Emperor extended an invitation, and the Yun Kingdom didn't refuse, declaring their arrival. For a moment, the entire palace, and indeed the entire capital, was filled with a tense and excited atmosphere.

As for Qin Rongchen, he originally disliked such bustling places, but due to the Queen Mother's repeated requests, he agreed to be there for the Queen Mother's sake. Qin Rongchen's agreement made the Queen Mother feel a little relieved. However, his heart remained calm, and he had no expectations for this lively birthday banquet.

The imperial court's servants bustled into a frenzy, meticulously decorating the palace, striving for perfection in every detail. The wives of officials and their wives also vied for attention, meticulously dressing themselves, hoping to stand out at this grand banquet. The Crown Princess stood no chance, but the Sage King's wife was still available. After all, there are always better beauties out there. Each of these women harbored their own ambitions, yearning to marry the Sage King and ascend to the throne of heaven.

Behind the bustle, undercurrents surge, and everyone is planning for their own interests and future.

The day before the emperor's birthday, the capital was shrouded in a tense and excited atmosphere.

The people of Yun Nation were about to arrive in the capital, and the capital had been preparing for their arrival for a long time. At the city gates, the people gathered to await the arrival of the Yun Nation's men. This was their first encounter with the enigmatic Yun Nation, and their curiosity piqued, they flocked to join in the fun. The city gates were already packed, a clamor rising and falling. People whispered to each other, discussing what the Yun Nation's men would look like, wondering whether they would bring a gift of peace or an unknown challenge.

The sun shone brightly on the stone pavement at the city gate. Among the crowd, there were elderly people with children, their eyes wide open, looking out expectantly; young people excitedly discussed things, their faces filled with a thirst for new things; and some vendors took the opportunity to set up stalls, selling all kinds of snacks and small items. The entire city gate was bustling with activity, as if a grand festival was about to begin.

Amidst this bustling atmosphere, the soldiers guarding the city stood in a state of alert, their backs erect, their gazes fixed warily on the horizon. They knew the arrival of the Yun Nation's troops was not only a spectacle, but also a test for the nation. They had to ensure the capital's safety, welcome the Yun Nation's arrival, and add splendor to the Emperor's birthday. Meanwhile, within the palace, the Emperor and his ministers were frantically preparing, awaiting the Yun Nation's arrival and the start of this eagerly anticipated event.

"Get out of the way! Get out of the way!" a man on horseback shouted, his voice echoing through the crowd. The crowd quickly retreated to the sides, clearing a path in the middle. Guards stood in the middle, maintaining order, their expressions serious and their eyes vigilantly surveying their surroundings.

"Gee, gee, gee!" The sound of horse hooves echoed as three men emerged from the road, followed by a large number of guards. They were Crown Prince Qin Ruoyu, Third Prince Qin Ruoxuan, and Prime Minister Su Yijing. Their distinguished demeanor instantly captivated the audience.

Qin Ruoyu scanned the crowd. He had felt those gazes since childhood. Some envied him, others envied him. What was so good about these common people? His uncle was willing to be a commoner like them instead of a member of the royal family. He didn't know if his uncle had returned to the capital, and no one around him had come back to report. Qin Ruoyu was filled with doubts and confusion.

He looked at the bustling crowd, a complex emotion welling up in his heart. He didn't understand why his uncle would make such a choice, nor did he understand why the lives of these people were worth his uncle's yearning. He only knew that he shouldered the heavy responsibility of the royal family and had to bear his own responsibilities.

Qin Ruoxuan and Su Yijing also felt the gazes of the crowd. They frowned slightly, but had different thoughts in their hearts. Qin Ruoxuan envied Qin Ruoyu's status and power, while Su Yijing was thinking about the future of the country and the welfare of the people.

At the bustling city gate, the three figures stood out. Their presence heightened anticipation for the emperor's birthday. Qin Ruoyu's doubts would gradually unravel in the days ahead.

"This is the first time the Yun Nation has come to our Daqi Imperial City. We can't afford to make any mistakes," Qin Ruoxuan said solemnly, looking at the huge crowd. He knew the importance of the Yun Nation's visit; any mistake could affect the relationship between the two countries.

"Rest assured, Third Prince. I have made all the necessary arrangements. Nothing will go wrong," Su Yijing replied calmly. He was young and promising, already a prime minister at the age of twenty-five, a position held by all. His eyes radiated confidence and wisdom, as if everything was under his control. Su Yijing was always meticulous and thorough, and nothing he did would go wrong.

Qin Ruoxuan nodded slightly, still quite confident in Su Yijing's ability. He turned to look at Qin Ruoyu, "Brother Crown Prince, what impact do you think this visit from Yun Country will have?"

Qin Ruoyu frowned slightly, thought for a moment and said, "The Yun Kingdom is mysterious and unpredictable. This visit must have a purpose. We must respond with caution and not take it lightly."

The three men stood at the city gate, each with their own thoughts. They all understood that the arrival of the Yun Nation would bring new opportunities and challenges to Daqi. As important figures in Daqi, they were responsible for the country's stability and development. Amidst this lively atmosphere, they awaited the arrival of the Yun Nation and prepared for what was to come.

"Wow!" The crowd exclaimed in surprise, their gazes drawn in unison as if drawn by a magnet. A cloud of dust rose in the distance, and the Cloud Nation team gradually emerged.

They were a group of women dressed in vibrant, colorful skirts, their vibrant garments shimmering with a mysterious luster in the sunlight. Each of them wore a veil, revealing only pairs of eyes, some bright and some deep, that seemed to hold endless stories and secrets. The veils fluttered gently in the wind, adding a touch of hazy beauty.

They rode their majestic horses, their postures graceful and composed. The horses, seemingly sensing their masters' presence, approached with steady steps. The women's long hair fluttered in the wind, creating a striking contrast with their flowing skirts. Their gazes were firm and confident, as if nothing in the world could stop them from moving forward.

The carriage, surrounded by many women, was beautifully decorated and exuded a noble aura. The curtains of the carriage occasionally fluttered in the wind, making people curious about who was sitting inside.

The appearance of these women from the Yun Kingdom unfolded like a magnificent painting before everyone's eyes. Their bravery and uniqueness amazed everyone present. The citizens of the capital had never witnessed anything like it. The usually gentle and graceful women, upon seeing the Yun Kingdom women's valiant figures on horseback, were filled with admiration and envy. Even the usually composed Qin Ruoyu, Qin Ruoxuan, and Su Yijing were moved by the astonishing spectacle. Gazing at these mysterious women, they were filled with curiosity and reflection about the Yun Kingdom.

"I didn't expect that the Yun Kingdom would send women all the way to my Daqi, but I haven't heard that the Yun Kingdom values ​​girls over boys." Someone in the crowd muttered softly, his face full of confusion.

"Yes, but don't be fooled by the fact that they all look thin and weak. They can ride these horses. Look at those horses, they are so strong." Another person responded with a hint of amazement in his eyes.

The crowd was buzzing with discussion, speculations swirling. Meanwhile, the Yun Nation people stopped in front of Qin Ruoyu and the other two. The women were veiled, and while their faces couldn't be seen, the sharp, vigilant gazes in their eyes were palpable. Those gazes were like sharp arrows, making anyone afraid to look directly at them.

Qin Ruoyu frowned slightly, secretly pondering the Yun Kingdom's intentions. Qin Ruoxuan, on the other hand, looked at the women with some curiosity, his mind full of questions. Su Yijing's expression was calm, and after his gaze lingered on the women for a short while, he regained his composure.

In this tense atmosphere, both sides were secretly observing each other. The mysterious aura of the women of Yun Country and the curious gazes of the people of Daqi intertwined, making the whole scene full of drama.

"I have been ordered to wait here for the Yun Kingdom envoys. Thank you all for your hard journey." Su Yijing spoke first, his voice steady and powerful. He bowed slightly to show respect for the Yun Kingdom envoys.

"We have come thousands of miles to your Daqi. We hope that your Daqi can do its best to be a good host and make our trip worthwhile." said the green-clad woman who was in the lead. Her voice was crisp and pleasant, but carried an unquestionable majesty.

"Of course. How could we, the Great Qi, a great country of etiquette, neglect you all? This is the first time we meet, so let me introduce you to everyone..." Su Yijing was about to introduce Qin Ruoyu and Qin Ruoxuan beside him.

"No need for introductions. Since you are Prime Minister Su, these two must be His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and the Third Prince." The woman in green interrupted Su Yijing and glanced at Qin Ruoyu and Qin Ruoxuan.

"That's right." Qin Ruoyu nodded slightly, a hint of curiosity in his eyes. He looked at the women of Yun Country, secretly wondering about their purpose. Qin Ruoxuan also looked at the woman in green with curiosity, and he admired her intelligence and courage.

At the city gate, the two sides' first confrontation was filled with tension and mystery. The decisiveness and intelligence of the women of Yun Nation impressed everyone in Daqi.

"We are honored to be welcomed by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince in person. I am Qingluan. As for the names of the rest of us, Prime Minister Su does not need to know. The one in the carriage is our country's Holy Maiden, and we are all under her command." Qingluan raised her chin slightly, with a hint of pride in her tone.

A Saint? Everyone's eyes turned toward the carriage, its surroundings closed, its silhouette unclear. The mysterious carriage seemed to conceal countless secrets, filling one with curiosity. Qin Ruoyu narrowed his eyes slightly, secretly speculating about the Saint's identity and purpose. Qin Ruoxuan couldn't help but move closer, eager to get a closer look.

"In that case, our Daqi and Yun Kingdom have different customs. If we are not well-received in the future, please let us know the truth. Our emperor has already arranged accommodations for you. Please come this way." Su Yijing said politely, extending his hand to indicate the direction.

Afterward, a large group of people marched off into the distance. The women of Yun Country, riding horses with impressive figures, formed a unique spectacle alongside the Daqi guards. The common people lining the streets stopped to watch, whispering to each other, filled with curiosity and speculation about these mysterious visitors from Yun Country.

In this lively atmosphere, Qin Ruoyu, Qin Ruoxuan, and Su Yijing were all filled with vigilance. They knew that with the arrival of the Holy Maiden of Yun Country, they had to respond cautiously to ensure the smooth development of relations between the two countries.