Fortune Across the World

Chapter 133: Entering the Desert City of Ulan with Graceful Dances

ÑDuring the meal, the patriarch of the Fu family expressed his pride in Fu Ruqing, saying, "Ruqing, your foresight is remarkable. You see things that even I cannot." His tone was full of pride, yet he reminded her, "But this journey takes you beyond the borders of the Great Qian, so be cautious in all matters."

Fu Ruqing nodded obediently, "Yes, I understand, Father. Please take care on your journey back as well."

"Rest assured, Patriarch, I will take good care of Qing'er!" Ding Qiyu promised, "May you have a safe journey back to Yinzou!"

"Haha, with you by Ruqing's side, I feel much more at ease," the patriarch said, growing increasingly fond of Ding Qiyu. He then mentioned, "I've granted your request. Take good care of Ruqing and return to Yinzou soon." Having been lonely for over a decade, the patriarch, now rekindling his relationship with his daughter, naturally looked forward to the future. With his daughter's marriage nearly settled, he hoped to soon enjoy the joys of family.

Understanding what the patriarch meant by "request," Ding Qiyu was overjoyed. She stood up, bowing deeply with excitement, "Thank you for granting my wish, Patriarch! I will bring Qing'er back safely to Yinzou!" Although she and Qing'er were already deeply committed, they lacked formal recognition. Ding Qiyu didn't want Qing'er to follow her with any regrets. Now, with the patriarch's approval, everything felt different.

Fu Ruqing, piecing together their conversation, blushed slightly, lowering her head as a sweet smile spread across her lips. She never imagined finding a lifelong partner and receiving her father's blessing. A subtle hope took root in her heart, longing for the day she and Yu could formalize their union upon returning to Yinzou. Like her mother once wished, with a grand procession and a splendid wedding, she could happily be with Yu. Perhaps every girl dreams of a beautiful wedding with their beloved, and even someone as reserved as Fu Ruqing was no exception.

...

The next day, Fu Ruqing's caravan and the patriarch's entourage parted ways at the gates of Xiang City, heading to different destinations. Xiang City was already near the western border of the Great Qian. After several days of travel, the caravan reached the border pass of the Great Qian's western frontier. Fu Ruqing had already acquired the necessary exit documents from the Great Qian court, allowing her group to leave the country smoothly. For many, it was their first time stepping outside the Great Qian.

As they traveled westward, the landscape began to change. The initial chill of early winter was replaced by a warmth reminiscent of summer, and the air became extremely dry. Ding Qiyu, with her naturally warm constitution, had already suffered two nosebleeds, causing Fu Ruqing to worry and fuss over her with cooling herbal drinks. Ding Qiyu felt guilty, having promised to take care of Qing'er, yet causing her concern.

After two more days of travel, they reached their destination, the eastern city of Ulan in the mysterious country of Xuanzhou. The merchant king of Xuanzhou had dispatched a large contingent to greet them at the city gates.

Accompanied by the welcoming envoy, they entered the inner city of Ulan and proceeded to the merchant king's palace. Ding Qiyu assisted Fu Ruqing out of the carriage while the envoy, wearing a red and black round hat, conversed with Silver Sui about arrangements. The merchant king's palace was located in the northernmost part of Ulan, on the highest ground. From the grand entrance, one could see the entire city, a sea of yellow earth and stone structures with domed roofs, and beyond the city walls, endless golden sands—a striking contrast to the Great Qian.