Chapter 98: Arrival

At this time in Cangzhou, the three princesses brought along a mighty marriage alliance entourage, which consisted of hundreds of elite guards and servants drawn from various martial arts sects across the land, each of whose strength should not be underestimated.

The entourage also carried various rare treasures, exotic beasts, and lavish dowries, showcasing the nobility and dignity of the imperial family.

After enduring countless hardships and obstacles on the long journey, the entourage finally reached its destination—Cangling City.

This city lies in the heart of Cangzhou, a thriving metropolis brimming with vitality and energy.

When the entourage arrived outside Cangling City, the prefect Li Shangchang, who had already received the news, led all the officials of Cangling City in waiting at the city gate.

He is a man about forty years old, with a kind and approachable appearance, and his eyes reveal a shrewd and wise demeanor.

He wore splendid official robes and had a jeweled sword at his waist, giving him a mighty and imposing presence.

"Welcome to Cangling City!"

Li Shangchang smiled as he stepped forward to greet them, offering the three princesses his warmest welcome: "Your arrival in Cangzhou is truly an honor for our prefecture."

The three princesses descended from their carriages amid the entourage, their faces lit with smiles, appearing dignified and graceful.

"Prefect, you overpraise us; we are merely here by imperial order for the marriage alliance, and we hope you will look after us."

The Fourth Princess, Si Luo Shi, lightly bowed with a gentle smile and said to Li Shangchang,

"The marriage alliance is a major affair for the imperial house, and also a great joy for Cangzhou."

"Please rest assured, Your Highnesses; I will devote my utmost effort to ensure the three princesses remain safe and sound during their stay."

Li Shangchang nodded, indicating his understanding.

Speaking thus, Li Shangchang personally led the three princesses into Cangling City.

The city's prosperous scene brightened everyone's eyes.

Shops lined both sides of the streets, displaying a dazzling array of goods.

A constant stream of passersby flowed by, including merchants of various skin tones from the steppe tribes, presenting a picture of flourishing prosperity.

"As expected of the city in Cangzhou nearest the grasslands, Cangling City truly lives up to its reputation."

"The level of prosperity here far exceeds our expectations."

Si Luo Shi gazed at the passing foreign merchants and sighed.

"You princesses may not know, but our city's prosperity stems from its central location in Cangzhou, with convenient transportation and thriving commerce."

"Moreover, our city serves as a gathering point for the major sects of the martial world, thus attracting talents and resources from all quarters."

Li Shangchang gave a slight smile and spoke.

Under Li Shangchang's guidance, the marriage entourage smoothly arrived at the mansion that had been prepared in advance for the three princesses in Cangling City.

It is a grand edifice, with two massive stone lions before its gate, signifying authority and status.

Within the mansion lies a deep courtyard complete with artificial hills, ponds, and pavilions, resembling a heavenly realm on earth.

"This mansion is one of the most luxurious buildings in our city."

Li Shangchang introduced, "To ensure the safety and comfort of the three princesses, I have specially arranged this place as your residence."

The leading Second Princess, Si Luo Ying, nodded gratefully: "Prefect, you have gone to great trouble; thank you for your meticulous arrangements."

"The three princesses are honored guests; it is my duty to attend to them wholeheartedly."

"If you have any other needs, please feel free to command."

Li Shangchang waved his hand and smiled.

Regarding the three princesses who may one day become the mistresses of all Cangzhou and even Yunzhou, Li Shangchang naturally would not be remiss.

Furthermore, even if these three princesses were not here for the marriage alliance, simply by virtue of their status as daughters of the Da Qian dynasty,

Li Shangchang would still treat them well.

After all, the prefectures of Cang and Yun are nominally under the Da Qian dynasty.

As a Saint‑rank official, Li Shangchang would naturally not cause trouble for his lord over such trivial matters.

Even if he wanted to cause trouble, it would not be in this regard.

For a person like Li Shangchang, making things difficult in this area would be beneath him.

Too lowly!

However, Li Shangchang soon informed the three princesses of a startling piece of news: their marriage partner is Su Ye.

He is currently leading troops to attack Qi Prefecture of the Great Yong dynasty, and it is unlikely he will be able to return to Cangling City in the short term.

Upon hearing this, the three princesses exchanged glances, their faces all showing surprise.

"Su Ye, the heir, is leading troops to attack Qi Prefecture? What is going on? We were unaware of this."

The Second Princess, Si Luo Ying, was the first to speak.

Su Ye's campaign against Qi Prefecture took place after the three princesses' marriage entourage had set out.

Thus, the three princesses were unaware of this while on their way to Cangzhou.

"This occurred last month, when the Great Yong dynasty fell into internal turmoil."

"Qi Prefecture, adjacent to Cangzhou, also became unstable; therefore, His Highness led troops forth, marching a great army to Qi Prefecture."

"Because the fighting has been fierce, he has continually been unable to withdraw and return to Cangling City."

Li Shangchang patiently explained to the three princesses.

"Then how should we settle our marriage alliance?"

"Su Ye is the husband we are to marry, yet he is not in Cangling City—what are we to do?"

Upon hearing this, the Sixth Princess, Si Luo Qing, furrowed her brow and asked.

"Please rest assured, princesses; although the heir is temporarily absent from the city, the marriage is an imperial decree, and heaven will make arrangements."

"I believe His Highness will soon return victorious and marry you."

Li Shangchang smiled as he comforted them.

He paused, then continued: "During this time, you princesses might tour Cangling City to learn its scenery and culture; meanwhile, our city will fully cooperate with your needs to ensure your safety and well‑being."

After learning that Su Ye had been ordered to lead a campaign against Qi Zhou and could not marry for the time being, the three princesses reacted differently.

The Fourth Princess, Si Luo Shi, fell silent for a moment, a hint of disappointment flashing in her eyes, but she quickly regained her composure.

"Military campaigns are no trivial matter."

"I suppose Su Ye, the heir apparent, has no choice either."

She gave a gentle smile and said softly.

"Being forced by circumstances is one thing, but our marriage cannot be postponed indefinitely."

"This time, the Great Qian royal household treats marriage as a political alliance; if we cannot consummate it for long, it will likely cause unnecessary suspicion and trouble."

As a military officer, the Second Princess, Si Luo Ying, appeared somewhat anxious.

This time, can the three of them stabilize the two provinces of Cang and Yun?

As for the current situation of Great Qian,

it is of utmost importance!

"Although Su Ye, the heir apparent, cannot return for now, we need not worry too much."

"After all, marriage is a lifelong matter that requires careful consideration."

"During this time, we can learn more about Azure Spirit City, communicate more with the people of our future husband, so as to better understand each other."

The Sixth Princess, Si Luo Qing, being a person of the martial world, showed relative optimism.

Li Shan Chang smiled as he observed the three princesses' reactions, gaining a deeper understanding of their personalities and wisdom.

"Since we have come to Azure Spirit City, we might as well enjoy its scenery and culture."

"As for the marriage matter, let things take their natural course."

The Second Princess, Si Luo Shi, gave a slight smile and spoke gently.

Si Luo Qing nodded: "Fourth Sister is right; let things take their natural course."

Si Luo Ying laughed heartily: "Good! Since that's the case, let us have a good time in Azure Spirit City, awaiting the return of Su Ye, the heir apparent."

Upon hearing Li Shan Chang's explanation and comfort, the three princesses' faces relaxed somewhat.

They knew that, for now, they were already in Azure Spirit City, and everything could only go with the flow.

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(End of chapter)