Yang Yu's orders were swiftly conveyed. After receiving instructions to prepare for a journey to the Heaven Dou Empire, a flicker of emotion passed through Zhu Zhuqing's icy eyes before they returned to calm. She began training with even greater focus, adjusting herself to peak condition. She understood that the Heaven Dou Empire was unlike the Star Dou Great Forest or the Far North. It was the center of power for a human empire, where the situation was far more complicated.
A few days later, news that Heaven Dou Empire Crown Prince Xue Qinghe would soon officially visit Spirit City was announced. The entire city became busy in preparation. Streets were cleaned and decorated, while security was noticeably strengthened. This was an important diplomatic event between the upper echelons of two major powers.
The Papal Palace attached great importance to the matter. Bibi Dong personally inquired into the reception arrangements and entrusted full responsibility to Hu Liena, who had just returned from Gengxin City. For Hu Liena, it was both a sign of trust and a test.
On the day of the visit, Spirit City's eastern gates were thrown open, and the honor guard stood in neat formation. The Spirit Hall welcoming party, led by Hu Liena, had long been waiting there. Today, she wore a dignified yet elegant golden court dress, with a poised and gracious smile on her face that made her shine brilliantly.
As the Holy Son, Yang Yu was also among the welcoming party, his position second only to Hu Liena's. He still wore simple black robes, his expression calm. He seemed somewhat out of place amid the ceremonial atmosphere, yet simply standing there, he was like a towering mountain—impossible to overlook.
In the distance, banners fluttered as a sizable convoy slowly approached. At its center