Li Xi pressed further: "And what?"
He looked at the person in front of him, paused for a moment, and continued, "It's not about being carefree, but about having a free spirit."
"Hmm, you're right." She pulled the curtain between them, placing it between them, and then lay down.
Seeing this, Qin Xiaolin took out a bamboo flute and began to play it.
The melodious flute music, like a flowing spring, washed away the distracting thoughts in Li Xi's heart.
She closed her eyes, immersing herself in the tranquil and profound music.
It felt like being on an endless grassland, with a gentle breeze carrying away all worries and fatigue.
The journey, marked by frequent stops and starts, took almost a month before the group finally reached the border.
Once we pass through this forest, we will officially enter the border territory of the Xuan Yue Kingdom.
The people inside the carriage couldn't wait to get off and stretch their muscles, which were a little stiff from sitting for so long.
At the same time, the general guarding the city also received news that the retired emperor and others had arrived at the border.
He dared not be negligent in the slightest and hurriedly led his men to greet them.
Soon, the two sides met.
The general guarding the city led his men to kneel and pay their respects, shouting, "Your subjects respectfully welcome the Emperor Emeritus, the Empress Dowager, and His Highness Prince An!"
The retired emperor slightly raised his hand, his voice tinged with weariness yet still dignified: "Rise, all of you."
The city's general and others stood up. Although the old man in front of them no longer held power in the Xuan Yue Kingdom, his authority and influence remained as strong as ever.
The retired emperor spoke in a loud and clear voice, full of vigor: "General, you have worked hard. How is the situation at this border now?"
The general guarding the city quickly bowed and replied, "Your Majesty, the border is currently relatively peaceful. Since Jingyuan and Xuanyue began trading, relations between the two countries have become increasingly harmonious, and no major conflicts have occurred."
The Emperor Emeritus nodded slightly, a hint of satisfaction flashing in his eyes: "Very good. Peace and prosperity are what the people desire most. But General, you must not let your guard down. The border is the gateway to the country, and we must be vigilant at all times."
The general guarding the city said solemnly, "The Emperor Emeritus's teachings are correct. This humble general will certainly fulfill his duties and ensure the safety of the border."
After lunch, the group set off for the border region. The general guarding the city was very worried when he learned that the Emperor Emeritus was going to the border of Xuan Yue Kingdom in person.
He originally wanted to send an elite army to escort them, but the retired emperor smiled and shook his head, indicating that he had already made thorough arrangements.
After a moment's hesitation, the general guarding the city couldn't help but say, "Your Majesty, the journey is long and fraught with dangers and unforeseen events. Given your noble status, it is truly unwise for you to take such risks!"
The retired emperor laughed heartily, patted the general guarding the city on the shoulder, and said, "General, there's no need to worry. Although I am old, I am still in good health. Moreover, this trip is for the peace and friendship between our two countries, so I believe there won't be any major problems."
Seeing that the Emperor Emeritus was so insistent, the general guarding the city could not say anything more.
He could only watch silently as the retired emperor led his entourage further and further away until they disappeared from sight.
Beyond the pass lies a vast, boundless forest, ruled by the Tiele tribe.
This tribe has signed trade agreements with Jingyuan Kingdom and Xuanyue Kingdom to ensure smooth trade.
As long as one has valid documents, people can freely pass through checkpoints without encountering any trouble or hindrance.
The Tiele tribesmen responsible for guarding this important area carefully examined the travel documents they carried.
After confirming that everything was correct, the guardians allowed Li Xi and her group to pass.
Travelers or merchants with valid travel documents have the right to enter and pass through this land.
This relationship of mutual trust and respect has enabled the maintenance of order at the border, allowing people to conduct business and exchanges with peace of mind.
Beyond the forest lies a vast plain stretching as far as the eye can see.
As winter approaches, the once lush green grass turns into a withered yellow.
A biting wind blew by, making the withered grass sway gracefully and rustle.
On this vast plain, only a few tall trees stand stubbornly.
Although their branches and leaves have also lost their green color, they still stand tall and point to the sky, as if proclaiming their resilience and indomitable spirit.
Here, the wind is free, the clouds are leisurely, and everything seems so peaceful and harmonious.
As Xuanqing stepped onto this vast plain, an unprecedented sense of freedom and comfort welled up within him.
She then suggested getting off the carriage and riding a horse, galloping freely and fully enjoying the unrestrained joy.
The others were also caught up in the atmosphere and chose to get off the carriage and ride horses.
On the plains, you can occasionally see the tents of nomadic peoples who make a living by herding livestock and also do some small business with passing travelers, providing them with food and lodging.
As dusk fell, Li Xi and her group rented tents from local herders.
The warm hospitality of the herdsmen made Li Xi and her group feel very welcome.
As night fell, bonfires were lit across the plains.
They sat around the fire inside the tent, enjoying the food carefully prepared by the herders. The aroma of roasted mutton and the sweetness of milk tea blended together, creating a delightful experience.
In the night, the starry sky was dazzling, and the Milky Way stretched like a ribbon, casting a soft glow.
These fires are like stars fallen to earth, adorning this boundless land.
Everyone put aside their daily busyness and worries, immersing themselves in this tranquility and harmony.
The light from the campfire cast dappled shadows on their faces.
The sudden commotion shattered the tranquility of the night.
A herd of horses galloped in from afar, their hooves thundering and dust billowing.
The rider on horseback carried a torch, wore leather armor, and was covered in dust from the journey.
Upon seeing this, the guards beside the retired emperor immediately became alert.
They placed their hands on the hilts of their knives, their eyes filled with wariness.
However, the herders nearby quickly explained, "Don't panic, everyone. These are just our tribe's patrol team. Winter is here, and to prevent other tribes from coming to plunder our resources, we've increased our patrols. Please rest assured, they mean no harm."
Hearing this, the guards relaxed slightly, but remained vigilant.
The retired emperor quietly observed the patrol team, a hint of appreciation flashing in his eyes.
He knew that in this turbulent era, every tribe needed strong military force to protect its homeland and people.
Li Xi spotted a familiar face, and her action of getting up puzzled Qin Xiaolin, who was standing nearby.
She walked straight toward the patrol team. When she reached the man, she said, "Oh, it's you, Brother Ali! Long time no see! I didn't expect to run into you here."
Her voice was clear and melodious, carrying the vigor of youth.
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