Dusk was drawing near.
Li Hao and the others galloped along the imperial highway, occasionally passing tea stalls and small vendors set up by the roadside, offering weary travelers a place to rest.
Along the way, they also encountered escort agency convoys, spirited wandering martial artists heading off together to slay monsters, and farmers diligently tending their fields beside the highway and its small villages.
Verdant cypresses stretched in straight lines along both sides of the road, leading toward the blue sky and white clouds.
As they approached a tea stall, the aroma of steaming Steamed Buns made the riders rein in their horses.
"Shall we take a break?" Yu Wei asked solicitously.
Li Hao heard Li Yuanzhao's stomach rumble. Clearly, he was hungry too, so Li Hao smiled and said, "Let's get something to eat first."
"It's almost dark. Won't it be dangerous out here?" Du Qiuyue asked, looking a little worried.
The old proprietor had sharp ears and keen eyes. Hearing the girl's question, he smiled. "Rest assured, young heroes. With the four great Divine General Residences guarding our borders, there are no monsters within Great Yu. Even an old man like me isn't afraid. What have you got to fear?"
The others looked toward Li Hao and Li Yuanzhao. Li Hao asked with a smile, "There are clearly five Divine General Residences, sir. Why did you say four?"
"I hear the other one isn't responsible for the borders. Probably guards the imperial capital," the old proprietor said with a smile.
"Good thing Wang Han isn't here with us," Du Qiuyue murmured. "He'd be furious if he heard that."
Yu Wei nodded. "The Heavenly Illumination Divine General Residence guards the Mo River and has made countless sacrifices, yet the world knows nothing of them. Just as many people