Chapter 19: Arrival at the Inner City

On the other side.

Gu Qingyi and Nangong Lin sat together in a single carriage, passing through a stretch of forest where birdsong and the scent of flowers filled the air.

The peaceful scenery surrounded them—lush greenery everywhere, tender green shoots poked up from the earth bursting with life.

A gentle breeze wafted by, carrying delicate floral fragrances that brought peace to the soul.

Gu Qingyi turned his head and saw Nangong Lin gazing out the carriage window, lost in the passing scenery.

A light breeze brushed against Nangong Lin’s cheek, lifting strands of her hair. She looked stunning, impossible to look away from.

“I was single all my past life, never dated—over twenty years solo from birth,” Gu Qingyi thought, feeling his cheeks flush. He knew the heat came from shyness. “I figured even after crossing into another world I’d still be just as aimless, maybe never even holding a girl’s hand, always feeling embarrassed just talking to one.”

“Let alone sitting next to a girl in the same carriage and occasionally holding hands.” He glanced at Nangong Lin, overcome with feeling. “If I hadn’t met Nangong Lin, maybe nothing would’ve changed for me.”

Nangong Lin, still looking at the scenery, felt someone’s gaze and turned in confusion.

Their eyes met and held.

Noticing Gu Qingyi looking right at her, Nangong Lin asked curiously, “Brother Gu, is there something on my face? And why is your face so red? Are you feeling sick?”

“N-no, nothing like that. Maybe I caught a bit of a chill, but it’s nothing serious,” Gu Qingyi coughed awkwardly.

So they sat quietly side by side, watching the rolling countryside pass by.

The carriage rolled leisurely down a quiet country road, like it was taking them straight into a painting.

Distant mountains loomed deep green, rivers nearby shimmered like silk—beauty everywhere, each view better than the last.

Wrapped in this poetic landscape, their hearts lightened and time seemed to slow, every moment becoming sweeter.

…

During their journey, birds sang above in the branches, their clear voices telling tales of spring.

Flowers danced in the breeze, their faint fragrance drawing bees and butterflies into a swirling dance.

The sheer beauty of it all was intoxicating; the two sank deep into the moment, not wanting it to end.

As the carriage moved on, the greenery along the road changed again and again, young leaves glittering in the sunlight.

It was as if the plants themselves sang a hymn to life, showing off nature’s spirit.

A soft wind stirred the leaves, sending waves of fresh scent swirling about, making them feel lightheaded with joy.

The serenity and beauty of it all made them want to lose themselves forever in that moment.

Through it all, the two leaned close together, sharing happiness between them.

They marveled at nature’s wonders, grateful for the time they shared.

In the green hills and sparkling waters, it felt like their souls been cleansed—worries washed away.

…

The carriage rolled smoothly down the open road, as if traveling to the very edge of happiness.

Time seemed to stand still on this magical trip; their small world was warm and sweet.

Together they witnessed the marvels of nature and gathered memories that would never fade.

…

Evening started to settle in.

Nangong Lin’s eyelids grew heavy, and she finally gave in—letting her head drop to Gu Qingyi’s lap as she drifted off to sleep.

Gu Qingyi looked down at the sleeping Nangong Lin, beautiful and serene. At first his hands fluttered nervously, not quite sure what to do, but then he slowly settled.

He gently patted her back with one hand, while propping up his chin to watch the view outside.

Bathed in nature’s beauty, the two shared a carriage, taking in the world together.

Along the way, their hearts grew closer and the bond between them deepened.

These happy hours would remain an eternal memory, something that would stay with them all their lives.

…

No one knew how long the carriage kept moving.

Dawn was just starting to break.

The next morning, after a night’s rain, sun pierced the sky. The courtyard was alive with chirping and trills, pathways still damp, rain hanging from the treetops.

A ray of sunlight landed on Nangong Lin’s face.

Rubbing the sleep from her eyes, Nangong Lin asked, “Brother Gu, are we there yet?”

Gu Qingyi looked at her gentle, drowsy expression and answered softly: “Looks like we’ve finally arrived.”

[Xuanwu City, Inner City] Suddenly, a city came into view ahead—half-hidden, half-revealed.

In the morning fog, this city seemed almost otherworldly.

It loomed huge, like a slumbering giant beast slowly lifting its veil of mystery.

The towering walls rippled like a dragon’s spine, guarding the busy world within.

As dawn broke, the guards outside looked all the more strict and disciplined.

Line after line of disciplined soldiers marched in formation, eyes sharp, alert for any sign of trouble.

Horn blasts echoed, warning all to hold the borders and protect the city.

Arrow towers and beacon towers stood tall and strong, loyal sentinels who had witnessed the rise and fall of dynasties.

Inside, the city was lively. Streets bustled and thrived.

Shops lined up in neat rows, with vendor stalls offering everything you could imagine. Crowds never stopped coming and going.

Music and laughter mixed with the hum of the market, making it hard not to smile.

Majestic temples filled with incense stood tall, their prayers blessing the City Lord.

Down the narrow lanes, scholars and poets recited moving verses, keeping alive the city’s legends and tales.

Within these walls, people lived in peace and the country bloomed with prosperity.

Morning mist faded as sunlight spread, and the whole city seemed to burst with life.

Strength and gentleness both ran through this city—protected by steel, embraced by celebration.

Here, history and the present merged, the ancient and the modern side by side—a symbol of power and pride.

This immense city shone bright, a dazzling jewel set into the map of Sword Qi Continent.

It stood guard over the Jianwu Dynasty, defending all directions.

One of the city gate guards noticed the approaching carriage.

The guard stepped forward, raising a hand to block the way and barked, “Inner City is restricted. Anyone coming in from the Outer City must be searched!”