the prosperous oasis cities on the outskirts of the takla makan desert in central Asia were important relay stations for trade caravans travelling across the great silk road.

this ancient ruin is inside a stone cavern in a deep, tranquil ravine that is a day's travel away by hore-drawn wagon from an oasis city. legend says that a rich merchant who desired a life of simple tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of commerce built this place. proof of the merchant's wealth can be seen in the ruin's walls and floors, where precious lapis lazuli and malachite are used lavishly.