jdhmnovel Chapter 158 Arrival in Xijing Kingdom
Chapter 158 Arrival in Xijing Kingdom
The story of the tiger cubs giving rabbits has become a popular tale, making everyone even more fond of and appreciative of the two tiger cubs.
After a long journey, Xiao Jingchuan and his party finally arrived at the border of Xijing Kingdom.
From afar, the pass of Xijing Kingdom resembles a crouching behemoth, standing majestically ahead. The tall, thick city walls, constructed of blue bricks and stones, gleam with a cold, hard luster under the sunlight, seemingly telling tales of time's vicissitudes and resilience. Atop the walls, banners flutter in the wind, their vibrant flags dancing, as if proclaiming the majesty and solemnity of Xijing Kingdom.
As the procession drew closer, the majestic grandeur of the pass grew increasingly awe-inspiring. The city gates soared into the clouds, their massive wooden doors tightly shut, the bronze studs gleaming coldly in the sunlight. On either side of the gates, armored soldiers stood tall and straight, spears in hand, their eyes sharp and watchful, vigilantly observing the movements ahead. Their armor shone brightly in the sunlight, creating a solemn atmosphere.
Xiao Jingchuan rode a tall horse, his expression solemn and composed. He wore a magnificent royal robe, the golden patterns gleaming in the sunlight, highlighting his noble status. Gu Liuli sat in the exquisitely decorated carriage, looking through the window at the unfamiliar and mysterious pass before her with a hint of anticipation and curiosity.
Xiao Nanyao and Xiao Nanyi excitedly poked their heads out of the carriage, their eyes sparkling with curiosity about their new surroundings. Pointing to the city gate, Xiao Nanyao exclaimed, "Wow, this city gate is so tall and big! It's even more magnificent than the one in our Nanzhao Kingdom!" Xiao Nanyi nodded in agreement, his eyes full of curiosity, "Yes, little sister, I wonder what's behind the gate? It must be very interesting!"
The two tiger cubs seemed to sense the change in the atmosphere around them. They stayed close to Xiao Nanyao and Xiao Nanyi, making low growling sounds in their throats, and their ears twitched alertly as they observed everything around them.
The procession stopped before the pass. Xiao Jingchuan's personal guard stepped forward and handed the pass and visiting card to the soldiers guarding the city. The soldiers carefully examined the documents, their eyes revealing a hint of caution. After verifying that everything was in order, the soldiers exchanged glances, and then one of them turned around and pulled hard on the rope on the city wall.
With a heavy creaking sound, the massive city gate slowly opened, sending thick dust billowing up beneath it. The moment the gate opened, an ancient and majestic aura emanated from it. Xiao Jingchuan nodded slightly, signaling the group to proceed.
Led by Xiao Jingchuan, the group slowly stepped into the land of Xijing Kingdom. Inside the city, the streets were wide and clean, and the architectural style on both sides was unique, quite different from that of Nanzhao Kingdom. Along the streets, the people curiously watched this foreign group, some whispering amongst themselves, others smiling and nodding in friendly greeting.
Xiao Nanyao and Xiao Nanyi excitedly looked at everything on both sides of the street. They saw all sorts of novel goods displayed along the way: colorful fabrics, exquisite porcelain, and all kinds of snacks. Xiao Nanyao took a deep breath and said, "It smells so good, brother! There are so many delicious things here!" Xiao Nanyi licked his lips, his eyes fixed on the snacks, and said impatiently, "Sister, can we try some later?"
Xiao Jingchuan and Gu Liuli smiled gently at the children's excited expressions. Xiao Jingchuan said, "Once we're settled in, we'll naturally take you around to explore and try the local delicacies."
When Emperor Jiang Liushen of the Western Jing Kingdom learned that his brother-in-law, Xiao Jingchuan, had arrived beyond the Great Wall, he was handling state affairs in his study. Upon hearing the news, he immediately put down the memorials in his hand, a hint of surprise and anticipation flashing in his eyes. As the emperor of the Southern Zhao Kingdom, Xiao Jingchuan was not only his brother-in-law but also a political ally he valued highly. Xiao Jingchuan's arrival with his family was of great significance.
Jiang Liushen quickly rose, straightened his dragon robe, and strode out of the study. His steps were hurried yet steady, each one revealing the majesty and bearing of a ruler. Seeing the emperor in such a rush, the eunuchs and palace maids dared not slacken in the slightest, following closely behind and jogging to prepare for the welcoming ceremony.
Soon, Jiang Liushen arrived at the main hall of the palace. The ministers inside had already received the news and gathered there, waiting to welcome Xiao Jingchuan. Jiang Liushen glanced at the ministers and said firmly, "His Majesty Xiao has come from afar and is a distinguished guest of our Xijing Kingdom. Today, we must treat him with the highest honors and show him no disrespect." The ministers readily accepted the order, their unified voices echoing throughout the hall.
Afterwards, Jiang Liushen, surrounded by a group of ministers and guards, marched in a grand procession towards the border. Along the way, the people on both sides of the street stopped to watch upon hearing of the emperor's journey. Seeing the emperor dressed in a magnificent dragon robe, wearing a dazzling crown, and with a solemn and majestic expression, they couldn't help but feel a sense of awe.
When Jiang Liushen and his entourage arrived outside the pass, Xiao Jingchuan's party had already stopped not far away. Jiang Liushen immediately saw Xiao Jingchuan's tall and imposing figure, riding a swift steed and wearing a magnificent robe embroidered with golden dragons, exuding an imperial aura. A sincere smile appeared on Jiang Liushen's face, and he quickened his pace to greet him.
Upon seeing Jiang Liushen personally come to greet him, Xiao Jingchuan hurriedly dismounted and led Gu Liuli, Xiao Nanyao, Xiao Nanyi, and others to meet him. The two sides met at the pass, and Jiang Liushen opened his arms and said warmly, "Brother-in-law, you must be tired from your journey. I've been waiting for you!" Xiao Jingchuan also smiled and replied, "You're too kind, Your Majesty. It is our honor to have you come to Xijing Kingdom."
The two embraced, their eyes revealing deep affection. Then, Jiang Liushen looked at Gu Liuli and said with a smile, "Royal sister, it's been a long time. You are still as radiant as ever." Gu Liuli bowed slightly and said gently, "Royal brother is too kind. It is you who are as charming as ever. Under your rule, Xijing Kingdom will surely prosper."
At this moment, Xiao Nanyao and Xiao Nanyi also stepped forward and obediently bowed to Jiang Liushen: "Hello, Uncle!" Jiang Liushen looked at the two adorable children and a loving smile appeared on his face. He squatted down, gently stroked their heads, and said: "Yaoyao and Yiyi have grown so much. They are so cute."
After exchanging pleasantries, Jiang Liushen turned to the ministers behind him and introduced, "This is His Majesty Xiao of the Nanzhao Kingdom, and also my brother-in-law. From now on, everyone must treat him with the utmost respect." The ministers stepped forward one after another and bowed respectfully to Xiao Jingchuan, who returned the bows one by one, displaying the demeanor of an emperor.
Then, Jiang Liushen personally led Xiao Jingchuan and his entourage into the city. Along the way, he enthusiastically introduced Xiao Jingchuan to the customs, culture, and cityscape of Xijing Kingdom. Xiao Jingchuan listened with great interest, nodding in approval from time to time, expressing his admiration for the prosperity of Xijing Kingdom.
When they arrived at the palace, it was already brightly decorated and filled with a festive atmosphere. Palace maids and eunuchs lined both sides of the road to welcome the distinguished guests. Jiang Liushen ushered Xiao Jingchuan and his entourage into the main hall and arranged for them to sit in the main seats.
Afterwards, the palace maids served a sumptuous feast of food and wine for everyone to enjoy. Jiang Liushen raised his wine cup and said with a smile, "Today, my brother-in-law and his family have come from afar. I toast you with this cup, hoping that our two countries can maintain a lasting friendship and achieve common prosperity." Xiao Jingchuan also raised his wine cup and said, "Your Majesty is absolutely right. May our two countries enjoy lasting friendship and move forward hand in hand."
Everyone raised their glasses and drank them down. Amidst laughter and cheerful conversation, the banquet officially began. During the banquet, Jiang Liushen arranged a wonderful song and dance performance, adding to the joyful atmosphere. Xiao Nanyao and Xiao Nanyi were captivated by the performance, watching intently with happy smiles on their faces.
Looking at the lively scene, Xiao Jingchuan was filled with emotion. He knew that his trip to Xijing Kingdom was not only to attend the birth celebration of the little prince, but also to strengthen the friendly relations between the two countries. Jiang Liushen's warm hospitality made him feel a deep sense of kinship and friendship, and filled him with confidence in the future cooperation between the two countries.
The banquet lasted for a long time, and even as night fell, everyone was still reluctant to leave. Jiang Liushen personally escorted Xiao Jingchuan and the others to their rooms, saying, "Brother-in-law and his family have had a long journey. Please rest early tonight. Tomorrow, I will take you on a proper tour of the Xijing Kingdom's palace." Xiao Jingchuan gratefully replied, "Thank you for your hospitality, Your Majesty. We won't stand on ceremony."
Jiang Liushen turned and left after watching Xiao Jingchuan and the others enter the guest room.
The next morning, soft sunlight streamed through the carved window lattices into the bedroom of the Xijing Kingdom's palace, draping the entire room in a golden veil.