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墨書 Inktalez
Dongfang Bai played the piano with great seriousness, pouring his heart into every note.
Perhaps it was because he had been playing for many years; even with his eyes closed, he played with remarkable skill. The beautiful melodies seemed to come alive under his fingers, enchanting all who listened.
Le Yao Yao's gaze naturally drifted upward from those elegant, fair hands.
There stood a man in white robes, exuding an effortless charm and an elegant demeanor akin to jade, reminiscent of orchids and bamboo.
On his handsome face, a gentle smile graced his lips, and his brows relaxed. His closed eyes, framed by thick eyelashes, cast delicate shadows that enhanced his striking features even further.
A man of such talent and beauty was indeed a rare find in the world!
Le Yao Yao felt fortunate to have encountered him and to know him…
As she pondered these thoughts, her gaze slowly returned to the man's hands as he played the piano.
After a long while, the music faded, lingering in the air like smoke or mist that refused to dissipate.
Taking a shallow breath, the man who had kept his eyes closed finally trembled slightly as he opened his starry deep black eyes. His red lips curled into a smile as he turned to the woman beside him and asked,
"Did you see how I played?"
"Yes, I did."
Slowly coming back to reality from the enchanting music, Le Yao Yao nodded and smiled in response to his question.
"Good. Now, try playing it yourself for me."
"What!? I can only play once, but I... I can't do it!"
Hearing Dongfang Bai's words, Le Yao Yao was taken aback and immediately shook her head vigorously.
Seeing Le Yao Yao's nervous expression, Dongfang Bai simply smiled.
"I know you can't, but have you ever touched a piano before?"
"Never."
Le Yao Yao replied honestly. Perhaps she had played the piano a few times in the past, but she had never touched a guqin.
Her fondness for the guqin stemmed from today, watching this ethereal man elegantly play such a beautiful piece, which instantly made her fall in love with the instrument.
Upon hearing this, Dongfang Bai chuckled.
"That's exactly it. I'm not asking you to play the piece I just performed; I want you to experience the guqin. Try out the hand positions. As long as you understand the structure and tones of this instrument, I'll give you some basic books on learning to play later. You can take your time studying them and you'll get familiar with it."
After listening to Dongfang Bai's explanation, Le Yao Yao suddenly understood, and her beautiful eyes lit up with a smile that revealed her pearly white teeth.
"Alright, then I'll give it a try."
Le Yao Yao said, feeling a surge of excitement within her.
Seeing Le Yao Yao's eager anticipation for something new brought a smile to Dongfang Bai's face. He then stood up and offered her his seat.
As Le Yao Yao sat in front of the guqin, gazing at the instrument, she felt a mix of apprehension and awe. Although she was completely unfamiliar with playing the guqin, just by its appearance, she could tell it was a valuable antique. What would she do if she damaged it?
Thinking of this made Le Yao Yao feel timid.
Her anxiety was evident on her face, and Dongfang Bai immediately noticed.
"Don't be afraid; just give it a try," he encouraged.
"Okay," she replied, feeling slightly reassured.
After taking a deep breath to calm herself, Le Yao Yao slowly extended her hands and gently brushed the strings. Then, mimicking the finger movements Dongfang Bai had just demonstrated, she began to play.
It was her first encounter with the guqin, and the sounds she produced were utterly unrecognizable. Even she felt a chill run down her spine at how terrible it sounded.
Why was it that when others played, beautiful melodies emerged, while her attempts sounded like a death knell?
Feeling embarrassed, Le Yao Yao gradually stopped playing, her expression turning dejected.
Seeing this, Dongfang Bai couldn't help but smile gently and offered some comfort.
"Actually, you played quite well for your first time."
"Really? Brother Bai?"
Though she knew his words were mostly meant to console her, Le Yao Yao felt a surge of confidence at his encouragement.
Looking at the smiling face before her, Dongfang Bai simply nodded with a smile.
Encouraged by Dongfang Bai, Le Yao Yao no longer held back and boldly began to play.
Although her playing was still out of tune and quite unbearable, those who listened didn’t mind, so why should she?
Thus, the entire afternoon passed with Le Yao Yao immersed in her piano practice.
Thanks to her natural talent, after practicing for an afternoon, she gradually began to grasp some techniques.
Seeing this, Dongfang Bai felt very pleased and generously praised her.
Receiving his affirmation, Le Yao Yao was naturally overjoyed and developed an even greater fondness for the guqin.
It was hard to tell whether it was because the one playing was Dongfang Bai or for some other reason...
Afterward, Dongfang Bai played again himself and then encouraged Le Yao Yao to follow along.
While Le Yao Yao understood some techniques, she certainly didn’t grasp everything.
At that moment, Dongfang Bai stood behind her, guiding her. Whenever Le Yao Yao hit a wrong note, he would immediately reach out to teach her hand-in-hand.
In that moment, one was focused on learning the instrument while the other was dedicated to teaching, with all their thoughts centered on the guqin. However, they were completely unaware that someone else viewed the situation differently.
"What are you two doing?!"
While Le Yao Yao and Dongfang Bai were focused, a low, gloomy voice suddenly echoed through the air.
It was the height of summer, with the heat intense enough to scorch a person.
Yet, this deep voice carried such a chill that it felt like a cold wind sweeping through in December, causing the temperature around them to drop several degrees.
As this icy voice rang out, both Le Yao Yao and Dongfang Bai were startled, quickly looking up towards the source of the sound.
They saw a pair of men and women standing at the entrance of the backyard, having appeared out of nowhere.
This couple was strikingly beautiful; the man was handsome and the woman was stunning.
The man wore a purple Dragon Robe adorned with gold trim, a Golden Belt at his waist, complemented by jade accessories.
His tall stature resembled Mount Tai, with straight legs, broad shoulders, and a narrow waist, exuding an air of nobility and dominance.
However, his face was as cold as Eternal Ice; his sword-like brows furrowed, his nose sharp, and his thin lips pressed into a straight line, revealing his anger.
His Cold Eyes were deep and black, filled with an icy gloom that froze everything in their gaze.
At that moment, his eyes shot towards Le Yao Yao like arrows.
Feeling the piercing chill of his gaze, Le Yao Yao couldn't help but shiver violently.
Despite the indifference on his face, the frigid aura emanating from him and his sharp gaze conveyed one clear message—
He was angry!
"Uh..."
Seeing the man's furious expression, Le Yao Yao was momentarily stunned, feeling somewhat at a loss for words.
What had happened to this living hell?
Wasn't everything fine in the morning?
Moreover...
As her gaze lightly shifted, landing on the woman standing beside the furious man, Le Yao Yao felt a loud 'bang' in her head, and her beautiful eyes widened in shock.
The woman appeared to be around sixteen or seventeen years old, with bright teeth and captivating eyes, stunningly beautiful.
Her dark eyebrows arched naturally without any makeup, and her ancient eyes sparkled with brilliance. The corners of her eyes were slightly raised, creating an alluring charm as she glanced around.
Beneath her charming nose were lips adorned with lipstick, making her look exceptionally radiant.
Her hair was styled in the most fashionable crescent bun of the time, with a delicate butterfly hairpin encrusted with pearls nestled among her locks, enhancing the shine of her hair even more.
Her slender figure was dressed in a pink silk skirt, which hugged her curves perfectly, showcasing her alluring silhouette to the fullest...
Seeing this dazzling woman, Le Yao Yao felt a sense of familiarity, as if they had met before. After pondering for a moment, she realized that this woman was none other than Nian Sulan, the girl who had captivated everyone during the Empress Dowager's birthday celebration at Dragon Hall!
Last night, Nian Sulan, dressed in red, looked stunningly enchanting, captivating anyone with just a glance. Any man in the world would be mesmerized by her.
Today, Nian Sulan's attire was equally impressive, though it carried a touch of elegance amidst the allure. Her noble demeanor still reflected the grace of a well-bred lady.
However, what shocked Le Yao Yao was not just her appearance, but the fact that Nian Sulan was seen with the Living Yama!
Earlier, she had only known that the Living Yama was summoned into the palace by the Empress Dowager. Now, seeing him together with Nian Sulan made her wonder if he had been with her all this time!
The thought stirred an uncomfortable feeling within Le Yao Yao, as if something sour was churning in her heart.
Even Little Face's expression darkened slightly.
Yet, despite her discomfort, Le Yao Yao reminded herself that she was merely a servant. After suppressing her unusual feelings, she stepped forward and respectfully addressed the Living Yama.
"Lord, may you have good fortune."
At that moment, Le Yao Yao lowered her head and kept her eyes downcast, dressed in eunuch robes that made her indistinguishable from the other eunuchs.
However, in response to her obedience, the Living Yama merely pressed his red lips tightly together, his expression still shrouded in gloom.
His cold eyes remained fixed on the little one before him who was bowing her head.
His gaze was so sharp and profound that it sent shivers down Le Yao Yao's spine.
Nevertheless, she continued to remain silent.
In an instant, the atmosphere felt a bit strange, and standing beside the Living Yama, Nian Sulan seemed to sense something as well. Her alluring eyes, often accentuated with eyeliner, were slightly surprised as they fell upon the young eunuch before her, filled with confusion.
The young eunuch appeared remarkably delicate, his skin flawless and smooth like that of a peeled egg, evoking envy in those who beheld him.
This was the first time she had encountered such a charming and adorable eunuch!
However, even though this young eunuch was good-looking, why did Junyu's gaze always seem to linger on him?
Nian Sulan found this puzzling.
At that moment, across from them, Dongfang Bai noticed Leng Junyu's arrival. His handsome face momentarily showed a hint of surprise, his eyes reflecting a flicker of astonishment.
But soon, he regained his composure.
A charming smile spread across his striking features, as if warmed by the spring breeze.
"Junyu, you’re here."
"Mm."
Upon hearing Dongfang Bai's words, Leng Junyu merely nodded lightly in acknowledgment.
At that moment, his gloomy gaze finally shifted away from Le Yao Yao and landed on the elegantly smiling Dongfang Bai. He opened his lips and coldly asked, "What were you doing just now?"
"Oh, just now? Just now, Yao Brother wanted to learn the guqin, so I taught her."
Dongfang Bai was already accustomed to Leng Junyu's cold and gloomy demeanor. After all, having known Leng Junyu for so many years, his face was perpetually like an iceberg; even a smile from him was a rare luxury.
Upon hearing Dongfang Bai's words, Leng Junyu merely furrowed his handsome brows lightly. His gaze fell on the guqin for a moment before quickly retracting. He pressed his lips together tightly, remaining silent as he strode purposefully toward the stone table.
Seeing this, Dongfang Bai immediately ordered someone to bring out some fine tea.
Xiao Tang knew of Leng Junyu's identity and naturally did not dare to be negligent. She had long prepared the tea and brought it over.
With Leng Junyu's arrival, Le Yao Yao could no longer practice the guqin. After all, her boss was here, and she naturally had to attend to her boss.
Especially since her boss's temperament was so unpredictable; she had no idea who had angered him today, which made him come here with such a sour expression.
She reminded herself to be careful not to step on any landmines; otherwise, she would surely regret it.
As Le Yao Yao pondered this, she found herself standing behind Leng Junyu.
At that moment, Dongfang Bai, Leng Junyu, and Nian Sulan were seated beneath a large tree.
After Xiao Tang served the tea, Dongfang Bai finally spoke to Leng Junyu.
"Why do you have time to come here today?"
"Just left the palace, and I've never been here before. I thought it would be boring, so I came."
"Oh, I see."
In response to Leng Junyu's words, Dongfang Bai merely smiled lightly, and her gaze fell upon Nian Sulan, who was sitting beside Leng Junyu.
At that moment, Nian Sulan's eyes also met Dongfang Bai's. Upon catching her gaze, Nian Sulan seemed to recall something, and a charming smile spread across her red lips, her voice as melodious as a lark's song, delightful and enchanting.
"Thank you so much for last night, Eastern Doctor. I had no idea the renowned First Divine Physician was so young."
Nian Sulan spoke with a playful smile, her alluring eyes fixed intently on Dongfang Bai, her words exceedingly graceful.
If it were any other man facing such a stunning woman's praise, his heart would surely soar.
However, upon hearing Nian Sulan's words, Dongfang Bai simply smiled lightly, unfazed by the flattery.
"Hehe, Year Girl is too kind. By the way, how is your foot injury? Would you like me to take another look?"
In response to Dongfang Bai's suggestion, Nian Sulan shook her head with a smile.
"The Eastern Doctor's skills are remarkable; my foot has healed long ago. Thank you for your medicine!"
"Hehe, it was just a small matter. Year Girl need not take it to heart."
Dongfang Bai responded to Nian Sulan's gratitude with an elegant demeanor.
The two chatted for a moment, when suddenly Nian Sulan seemed to remember something and looked up at the sky.
It was nearing dusk, and soon it would be completely dark.
Having finally managed to get Cousin Yu to accompany her through Aunt's words, she certainly didn't want to return home so early.
However, she was also afraid that Cousin Yu might suggest taking her back later. So, after thinking for a moment, Nian Sulan's charming face lit up as if she had come up with an idea. Her beautiful eyes sparkled, and she turned to Leng Junyu and said,
"Cousin Yu, I haven't been back to the Capital City in five years. I've heard that over the past few years, there have been many painted boats at West Lake. It's wonderful to enjoy the scenery during the day, but appreciating the night view seems like a delightful experience as well. Why don't we go for a boat ride on the lake?"
At that moment, Nian Sulan looked like a child seeking an adult's approval. Her enchanting eyes were filled with pleading, and her delicate voice was laced with a hint of coaxing charm.
If it were any other man faced with such a stunning beauty's plea, he would have likely agreed without hesitation, his heart melting at her playful demeanor.
However, in response to Nian Sulan's coaxing request, Leng Junyu merely held his teacup, savoring the fragrant tea as if he hadn't heard her at all.
Seeing Leng Junyu's indifferent demeanor did not dishearten Nian Sulan in the slightest.
She had known this man since childhood and was well aware of his personality.
She understood that he was someone who rarely smiled and appeared indifferent to everything around him. It seemed that even if the sky were to fall, there wouldn't be a trace of panic on his face.
Yet, despite this coldness, it only made her heart race even more.
Whether in her childhood or now, her feelings for him had never changed.
As she thought of this, the pleading look in Nian Sulan's eyes deepened, and her rosy lips slightly pouted.
After all, she was a strikingly beautiful person; no matter what action she took, it was always so lovely and charming.
However, no matter how much Nian Sulan pouted and acted coy, Leng Junyu merely replied calmly.
"It's getting late; I should escort you home."
"Uh, Cousin Yu..."
Nian Sulan's dissatisfaction was evident on her face at Leng Junyu's words.
Her eyes carried a hint of disappointment.
Her tone dragged out, fully expressing her discontent.
Anyone could tell the woman was unhappy, yet Leng Junyu paid no attention. In the end, seeing the man's still indifferent expression, Nian Sulan let out a soft sigh, lowering her little face and murmuring.
"Fine then..."
Since Cousin Yu had said so, she felt it was inappropriate to say anything more.
After all, there would be plenty of time in the future. As long as she stayed by Cousin Yu's side, even the most unyielding ice would eventually melt one day.
With this thought in mind, Nian Sulan's heart filled with renewed confidence.
Just as the atmosphere was settling, a cheerful voice suddenly rang out, filled with a sense of interest.
"Hey!? Who just mentioned going boating? Oh, how wonderful! Boating on the lake in Capital City at night is the best thing to do. The scenery is beautiful, and the street food around West Lake is laid out all along the street, with fried, grilled, and stir-fried dishes that are absolutely delicious!"
Before the person arrived, their voice had already captured everyone's attention.
As the cheerful voice echoed, all eyes turned toward the back courtyard entrance.
There stood Nangong Junxi, striding confidently toward them.
It was dusk.
The sun had gradually sunk into the thick clouds, yet the brilliant orange-red light still pierced through, casting golden rays across the landscape.
The orange glow slowly enveloped the earth, giving it a shimmering hue.
A gentle Evening Breeze wafted through, enhancing the beauty of the sunset.
The young man walking toward the back courtyard was clad in a pure royal blue Long Robe, cinched at the waist with a silver belt adorned with exquisite Sheep Fat Jade. He wore black shoes with silver embroidery.
His long hair, as dark as satin, was elegantly tied up with a delicate Jade Crown, while the rest cascaded down over his shoulders.
This attire accentuated his handsome features, making him appear even more spirited and dashing.
In his hand, he held a white ink-painted folding fan. As he walked closer, the fan flickered in his grasp, presenting him as a charming and carefree young gentleman.
Upon the arrival of Nangong Junxi, Dongfang Bai and Leng Junyu merely nodded in acknowledgment.
Nian Sulan was also aware of Nangong Junxi's identity. Although she was not familiar with him, out of courtesy, she stood up from her seat and gracefully bowed to the man who was approaching.
"Seventh Prince."
"There is no need for such formalities, Year Girl. We are all people who do not fuss over trivial matters; your politeness is rather excessive," Nangong Junxi replied in a clear voice.
Hearing this, Nian Sulan simply smiled charmingly before taking her seat again.
After arriving, Nangong Junxi's beautiful Peach Blossom Eyes lightly swept across the surroundings, eventually landing on Le Yao Yao, who had been silently standing behind Leng Junyu.
Noticing Nangong Junxi's gaze, Le Yao Yao momentarily froze before bowing slightly in response.
"Seventh Prince."
"Heh heh, you’re up quite early! Did you enjoy yourself drinking yesterday? How about we have another round on the boat later?"
It was clear that Nangong Junxi wanted to invite Le Yao Yao to join him for drinks.
It was no surprise; after coming here, finding someone to drink with wasn't easy for him. His senior brother was out of the question—no matter the time, he would never get drunk and always had to keep a bit of clarity. Besides, drinking with someone so reserved felt like drinking with a dullard; it was simply uninteresting.
Dongfang Bai could drink, but he always did so with the utmost elegance, just like his demeanor. No one could manage to drink as heartily as he did, so whenever they shared a drink, it never felt quite satisfying.
However, the Little One was different.
At least, he could play rock-paper-scissors with him and drink deeply, enjoying every moment!
So, when he woke up today with a headache that felt like it might explode, all he could think about was how enjoyable last night's drinking had been!
Thus, when he learned that the Little One was currently at the medical clinic, he quickly got dressed and hurried over.
In contrast to Nangong Junxi's eager expression, Le Yao Yao merely pursed her Red Lips and flatly refused.
"No."
"Uh?! Why not?"
Nangong Junxi clearly hadn't expected Le Yao Yao's rejection. The smile that had been bright on his handsome face faltered for a moment.
But soon enough, as if realizing something, he snapped his folding fan shut with a 'pop,' and his Red Lips curled into a smile that revealed his pearly white teeth.
"I get it! You're afraid that if you drink too much, you'll have a headache the next day! Haha, no wonder! When I had my first drink, I thought my head would explode the next day; I even thought I was going to die! But eventually, I grew to love drinking. Since you don't want to now, let's save it for next time!"
After saying this, Nangong Junxi gracefully settled down as Xiao Tang brought him some fragrant tea.
Having talked so much, his mouth felt dry. He took a sip to moisten his throat and then seemed to remember something as he turned to Dongfang Bai and the others.
"By the way, didn't you just say you were going to West Lake? Let's go now! I'm hungry too."
It should be noted that he hadn't eaten since he arrived and had rushed over here.
After Nangong Junxi finished speaking, Nian Sulan across from him was about to say they weren't going anymore.
However, at that moment, Nangong Junxi didn't wait for her to finish and turned his attention to Le Yao Yao, laughing heartily.
"Piglet, you've never been to West Lake, have you? Let me tell you, it's wonderful there! The night view is beautiful, and most importantly, the snacks along the West Lake are absolutely delicious! They have sweet, sour, and spicy options—everything you could want! You're in for a treat!"
"Really!?"
Hearing Nangong Junxi's words, Le Yao Yao couldn't help but feel excited.
After all, she had never been to West Lake before. She had only heard that the snacks there were great but never had the time to go.
Since arriving here, she had been busy every day; where would she find the time to visit such places?
Moreover, buying things costs money. She used to be broke, so naturally, she wouldn't go to those places!
Now, hearing Nangong Junxi say this, Le Yao Yao felt her heart flutter.
Her delicate little face was brimming with excitement and joy, and her bright beautiful eyes sparkled as if they could speak.
However, just as Le Yao Yao was feeling thrilled and delighted, she remained completely unaware of a pair of slender cold eyes that were intently observing her expression. The cold eyes narrowed slightly…
Le Yao Yao was completely unaware of this, but her excitement lasted only a moment before her smile faded instantly.
She recalled the words of the Living Yama from earlier, who had said he wouldn't go! No matter how much the stunning beauty, Nian Sulan, pleaded with him, he remained unmoved. How could he possibly change his mind now!?
With these thoughts swirling in her mind, Le Yao Yao's little face quickly fell into a somber expression.
Nangong Junxi, noticing this, blinked his beautiful Peach Blossom Eyes in confusion.
"What’s wrong?"
Wasn't everything fine just a moment ago? How could her expression change so suddenly!?
In response to Nangong Junxi's question, Le Yao Yao bit her lip but said nothing more. She simply lowered her little face and stared intently at her toes.
Seeing this, Nangong Junxi's confusion deepened.
However, before he could say anything else, Leng Junyu, who had previously opposed going, suddenly spoke up.
"If everyone wants to visit West Lake, then let's go to West Lake!"
"What!? Cousin Yu, really?"
Upon hearing Leng Junyu's words, Nian Sulan's face immediately lit up with a radiant smile that resembled blooming peach blossoms.
She beamed with joy as she spoke to Leng Junyu.
Moreover, regarding Leng Junyu's sudden change of heart, she thought it was because of her, which made her even more delighted.
In contrast to the beaming Nian Sulan, Le Yao Yao, who was nearby, was immediately taken aback upon hearing Leng Junyu's words, a look of surprise flashing across her eyes.
Didn’t he just say he wouldn’t go? So why now…
Le Yao Yao couldn’t fathom the temperament of the living hell, so she didn’t dwell on it further.
On the other hand, Dongfang Bai, upon hearing Leng Junyu's words, had a fleeting glimmer of something unusual in his long and beautiful deep black eyes…
……
The Celestial Yuan Dynasty is home to three famous landmarks.
The highest peak in Meizhou is Saintess Mountain.
This mountain is said to be unfathomably high and resembles the face of a young girl, hence its name, Saintess Mountain.
It is said that Saintess Mountain is covered in snow year-round; even during the scorching summer days when the sun shines brightly at the foot of the mountain, snow still blankets its summit. Furthermore, due to its towering height, no one has ever reached the peak of Saintess Mountain.
Adjacent to Saintess Mountain is Tianshan.
Tianshan also experiences perpetual snowfall but does not reach the heights of Saintess Mountain. The Tianshan Daoists reside atop Tianshan, where Leng Junyu and Nangong Junxi are currently training in martial arts…
The second most famous attraction in Heavenly Origin is Dali Hundred Flower Valley.
It is said that Baihua Valley is the dwelling place of fairies.
In Baihua Valley, flowers bloom all year round, regardless of the season.
Moreover, within Baihua Valley, all kinds of flowers from around the world are cultivated. Whether it is the priceless Tianshan Snow Lotus or the humble Roadside Wild Chrysanthemum, there is an abundance of them, dazzling to the eyes.
Unfortunately, Baihua Valley is situated in a gorge surrounded by mountains. From afar on the high peaks, one can see the vibrant sea of flowers below, but there is no path leading down into Baihua Valley.
It is said that this is because it is a place where fairies reside.
The fairies do not wish to be disturbed, so they have set up formations that prevent anyone from descending, no matter what methods they employ.
The third famous attraction of the Celestial Yuan Dynasty is West Lake in Capital City.
It is said that West Lake is the deepest, largest, and clearest lake in All-Day Yuan.
The lake's depth is unfathomable, and its vast area encircles Capital City before flowing straight into the sea.
The clarity of West Lake allows one to see schools of fish swimming freely beneath the surface, enjoying their carefree existence!
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