Entering the territory of Southern Chu, the carriage did not slow its pace. Shen Wei was not idle either, dutifully taking her medicine daily to recuperate, and in her spare time, she lifted the carriage curtain to observe the lives of Southern Chu's people.
Southern Chu had suffered years of civil war, leaving its citizens in hardship. After Li Yuanli secured the throne with ruthless efficiency, he implemented a series of reforms, executing most of the corrupt officials and local tyrants. Gradually, Southern Chu regained its vitality, and the people's lives improved.
Perhaps influenced by Southern Chu's founding empress, the people were open-minded, adventurous, and admired strength. Southern Chu merchants were numerous, conducting business far and wide, spreading across the continent like blooming flowers.
