Unlike the leisurely tranquility of traveling across vast, open fields, where they only occasionally encountered a few farmers by the roadside or among the wheat,
as they slowly approached the city entrance, the number of people nearby gradually increased.
There were merchants hurrying along in carriages, travelers, and gate soldiers responsible for registration and inspection. The clamor of crowds, absent for so long, carried a lively atmosphere unlike the countryside, one that belonged only to the city.
"Wow, this city is pretty big."
Amid the bustle at the entrance, Fang Ran drove the carriage into the city. He looked in surprise at the houses stretching beyond sight and the broad streets filled with people coming and going beneath the sunlight.
Though it could not compare to Milan, it was already quite large compared to the small towns they had passed through before.
Their journey as two people in a carriage continued, and this time, they had arrived in a new city.
"Fang Ran, where are we going now?"
Ever since leaving Milan, they had not passed through anywhere this large. Ling tugged at Fang Ran's sleeve, carrying a little girl's uncertainty.
"As usual, we'll find somewhere to stay first and leave the horse in their care."
Fang Ran answered with a light laugh. He glanced at the time—it was already past noon—then lowered his head and winked at Ling.
"Then we'll spend this afternoon looking around. Tomorrow, we can ask around for information all day. How does that sound?"
"Mm, okay."
Hearing the girl's clear, youthful agreement, the young man lightly raised the reins, and the carriage entered the city streets.
"Let's go!"
With the Alps to the north, the economic hub of Milan to the west, Venice to the east, and the road to the capital, Rome, to the