pdf-ebookys Chapter 358 Arrival in the Northern Frontier
Chapter 358 Arrival in the Northern Frontier
In an instant, the slightly gloomy sky of the Northern Frontier was violently torn apart by a blinding light. In the distance, a signal flare, trailing a bright and dazzling tail, appeared like a shooting star falling from a mysterious galaxy, abruptly and stunningly entering everyone's field of vision. In this vast and complex land of the Northern Frontier, this light was like a beacon in the dark night, extremely eye-catching. The subordinates that Gu Mochen and Ye Qingchen had sent to manage business here, who had been chatting idly in twos and threes or patrolling the surroundings with utter boredom, instantly lost their nonchalant expressions when that unique signal flare came into view, replaced by an irrepressible solemnity and excitement.
The signal flares designed by their own masters were full of hidden secrets. From the intricate patterns carved on the outer shell to the unique halo color that appeared in the air after launch, and the one-of-a-kind shape when they bloomed, everything revealed exclusive, secret markings. Even if outsiders stared intently and examined them closely, they would never be able to decipher their mysteries. Therefore, these subordinates almost reflexively concluded instantly: it must be their two esteemed masters personally arriving in the Northern Frontier!
The two stewards from the Northern Frontier, usually calm and capable, disregarded their usual composure upon learning of their master's arrival. They rode at full speed, their hooves kicking up dust, yet their movements remained steady. When they were a few steps away from Gu Mochen and Ye Qingchen, they immediately dismounted, kneeling neatly on one knee with their heads bowed slightly, their posture utterly respectful. The steward in the lead spoke first, his voice trembling slightly with excitement, filled with deep respect: "Master, you two have endured a long and arduous journey! Upon receiving your letter and hearing of your northward journey, I assumed you would reach the Great Liao, experience its bustling and vibrant foreign landscape, and then return. Who would have thought that you would brave such hardship, traveling all the way to truly set foot in our harsh Northern Frontier?" He then raised his head slightly, his eyes filled with amazement and admiration for his master's tireless efforts.
Seeing this, Gu Mochen and Ye Qingchen quickly stepped forward, each helping one of the stewards to their feet. With warm, gentle smiles, they said softly, "Please rise, there's no need for such formalities." Then, Gu Mochen stepped aside and gestured behind him to introduce Bai Zhi, Fu Ling, Bai Yufei, and Song Mingye, "These four are all my brothers and sisters, we've traveled together all the way here. Let's not stand here any longer, let's go back to our lodgings." Upon hearing this, the four immediately stepped forward, bowing respectfully to the two stewards. Their movements were elegant and polite, each with friendly and approachable eyes. The two stewards quickly returned the bow, but a hint of curiosity and inquiry flashed in their eyes. After all, these four unfamiliar faces had traveled with their master, so Bai Zhi and Fu Ling, who had protected and cared for him all along, must be among them, and the two stewards were most likely their husbands.
After a brief exchange of pleasantries, the group headed towards their lodgings. The biting wind of the Northern Frontier, like sharp blades, howled across their faces, stinging their skin, but this did nothing to dampen their spirits. Gu Mochen and Ye Qingchen walked alongside the two stewards, eagerly inquiring about the progress of business in the Northern Frontier as they went. The stewards dared not slacken in the slightest, answering in detail about everything from fur trade with local tribes to the methods used to navigate relationships with various forces.
Halfway through their journey, a sudden commotion arose in the distance. It turned out to be a group of local herders driving their flock of sheep past, the sheep moving slowly across the withered grassland like white clouds. The herders rode their horses, their shouts rising and falling, their brightly colored clothing gleaming in the sunlight. Gu Mochen and his companions couldn't help but stop and watch, experiencing the unique atmosphere of life in this northern frontier. Seeing this, a manager smiled and explained, "This is a common sight in the northern frontier. These herders have a lot to do with our business; most of the wool we buy comes from them." Everyone nodded, their eyes filled with curiosity.
As we drew closer to our dwelling, a cluster of houses with strikingly different styles came into view. These houses were unique, yet they blended wonderfully with their surroundings. They were all pitched roofs, a stark contrast to the sloping roofs commonly seen in Northeast China. Some had conical roofs, resembling giant, inverted conical hats, firmly rooted to the ground, standing tall even in the fiercest winds; others had straight, flowing lines, presenting a unique geometric beauty. A thin metal wire stood atop each house, gleaming coldly in the sunlight, resembling sharp swords piercing the sky from afar.
Noticing the confusion in Bai Zhi and the others' eyes, a manager stepped forward to explain, "The design of these houses is the culmination of the wisdom of our ancestors. Northern Xinjiang is windy, and the conical and gabled roofs effectively disperse the wind, preventing the roofs from being blown off by strong winds. As for this metal wire, the weather in Northern Xinjiang is unpredictable, with frequent thunderstorms; it's used for lightning protection, providing extra safety inside the houses. Furthermore, when it snows, the pointed roof prevents snow from lingering on the roof, avoiding the risk of heavy snow collapsing it." Upon hearing this, everyone exclaimed in amazement, praising the unique architectural wisdom of Northern Xinjiang.
The group arrived at a courtyard. The courtyard gate was made of heavy solid wood, with the marks of time etched on the panels, yet the exquisite carvings remained clearly discernible—dragons and phoenixes, auspicious beasts galloping—all showcasing the superb craftsmanship of the original artisans. Two stewards stepped forward, grasped the door knockers with both hands, and gently pushed open the gate. The hinges creaked open with a dull thud, sounding particularly jarring in the quiet of the northern frontier.
Stepping into the courtyard, the first thing that catches the eye is the spacious ground. The stone slabs are smooth and even, with a few tenacious little grasses peeking out from the cracks. Hardy pines and cypresses, along with some unidentified flowers and plants, are planted around the courtyard. Although it is summer, the temperature difference between day and night makes it feel like winter at night. Most of the flowers and plants have withered, and only those indoors can survive. However, the pines and cypresses remain green and upright, making one imagine what a vibrant scene it would be if it were full of flowers.
Directly in front of the courtyard stood the main house. Continuing the pointed-roof style, the interior was surprisingly cozy. A set of antique-style table and chairs sat in the main hall, the wood grain clearly visible, emitting a faint woody fragrance. Several paintings depicting the scenery of northern Xinjiang hung on the walls, showing vast grasslands, galloping horses, and majestic snow-capped mountains, the brushstrokes delicate and lifelike. The stewards quickly invited everyone to sit down and loudly instructed the servants to prepare tea and snacks.
Soon, steaming hot milk tea and fragrant pastries were served. The milk tea was rich and flavorful, with a smooth texture and a delightful blend of milk and tea aromas, instantly dispelling the chill from everyone. The pastries were specialties from northern Xinjiang, including milk skin and ghee cakes, each bite unforgettable. The group sat together, enjoying the food while continuing their previous conversation.
Gu Mochen and Ye Qingchen, their expressions serious, inquired in detail about the future plans and potential difficulties of the business in Northern Xinjiang. The managers, considering the local situation, offered a series of ideas and suggestions, such as opening new trade routes, establishing trade relations with more tribes, and strengthening communication and cooperation with the local government to cope with possible policy changes. Bai Zhi, Fu Ling, and others also chimed in from time to time, offering unique insights from different perspectives. Fu Ling, quick-witted, suggested optimizing routes in the cargo transportation process to reduce costs; Bai Yufei, drawing on his martial arts skills, proposed strengthening the caravan's security to ensure the safety of the goods. For a time, the room was filled with lively discussions, the atmosphere exceptionally enthusiastic.