Zhou Qiang shuddered at that glance from Tianmiao and quickly turned his head away, avoiding eye contact with Tianmiao.
Que Qiu came forward from behind and said, "You have reached your destination now, so I won’t disturb you. Unless there’s danger, I will notify you in time. Don’t worry about where I am; just use the walkie-talkie to contact me if there are any issues."
Seeing Que Qiu about to leave, Professor Wu hurriedly spoke up, "Guide, you know that even though we’ve arrived, we still rely on your experience for many things. Let’s not be so distant—it’s better for everyone if we stick together, right?"
Que Qiu seemed to think for a moment, then said lightly, "Okay, but it’ll cost more."
Professor Wu quickly nodded and said, "Don’t worry, you’ll be well compensated!"
Que Qiu, carrying his bag, said nothing further and followed behind the group.
The team gradually moved from the residential area of the Imperial City toward its center. It was apparent that the closer they got, the more visible the ruins’ class division became. For example, most of the residential area consisted of earthen huts with monotonous colors, but as they walked here, the houses were mostly built of stone bricks, and the colors became richer.
As they ascended a set of steps, their view broadened. Although there were no buildings here, it was clear that a main road existed. It was very wide, and looking ahead was a massive platform. The group recalled that this seemed to be the square depicted in the murals. Seeing it like this, standing on that platform would align them nearly at the height of the spires behind it, resembling the ceremony depicted in the murals.
As dusk fell, Que Qiu suggested they rest on the platform for the night and continue tomorrow. A day of travel had left everyone exhausted and in need of a quick recovery.
Everyone nodded in agreement, some pitching tents while others gathered supplies for dinner.
The bonfire gradually lit up, and after dinner, the group, as usual, gathered around it to chat.
Professor Wu was continuously excited to witness this ancient city firsthand. He spoke eloquently, sharing many tales and insights about what they saw today.
Cheng Luo and senior Zhou Qiang listened while taking notes, preparing for their graduation thesis.
It wasn’t until ten o’clock at night that this discussion ended. The group returned to their tents, and quiet slowly enveloped the area, occasionally broken by a snore or two.
The night watchman, Zhou Qiang, sat by the bonfire, resting his head in his hands and staying silent. His gaze seemed to penetrate the darkness, once again surveying the ancient city from the elevated platform.
The night was cool as water, and the surroundings were silent.
So quiet it was eerie.
Cheng Luo’s sleeping bag was snugly next to Tianmiao’s, and she slept soundly. She was indeed very tired that day.
A gentle breeze blew by. And also, the sound of laughter.
Where was the laughter coming from?
Cheng Luo opened her eyes and was stunned.
Before her was the splendid Imperial City of a thousand years ago.
On the wide stone-paved road, people were bustling about.
The pedestrians had an exotic beauty to them, and their attire was particularly unique. Some balanced a pot on their head filled with what appeared to be fresh water. Others balanced a basket of fruit on their head, laughing as they walked forward.
Street vendors called out, selling grilled meat skewers, breads, fruits, and milk tea.
Was this the Irel Royal City from a thousand years ago?
Such beauty, such prosperity.