Chapter 05 Saint Petersburg

At this moment, they had already arrived at the steps of the church, where the intricate marble patterns intertwined in black and white like scattered lotus branches. Xia Huixi slightly lowered her gaze and smiled faintly, saying, "No. I simply enjoy religious therapies. There is a kind of subtlety that is understood intuitively"

A soft scoff was heard, and Xia Huixi once again caught the faint comments like threads of silk: "Oh, quite the pretentiousness."

However, this treasury of art and religion did not move Xia Huixi; she merely gazed blankly at the dark confessional, as if that were the place she most longed to see. Dressed in black stockings, her exposed calves appeared even more slender. She stood motionless, as if a saint had seen the Almighty, and it seemed to evoke distant memories. Su Ruhao stood behind her, quietly observing this scene with a hint of interest in his gaze, as if he had caught a glimpse of a Xia Huixi he had never known before.

The staff member who picked us up was Chinese. He was very talkative. Throughout the ride, he pointed out the scenery outside the window, as if he were a tour guide, continuously providing introductions. Xia Huixi listened with great interest and finally said, "The night view must be quite nice"

The Resurrection Church, also known as the Church of the Holy Blood, is a typical example of Russian style and Orthodox architecture. From a distance, the red walls exude a solemn and reverent atmosphere unique to religious structures, while the varying heights of the onion domes resemble a cluster of blooming buds, vibrant in color yet retaining a sense of liveliness

The man who had captured her was laughing, and he forcefully tugged at her, seemingly trying to restrain her struggling hands and feet, while speaking a string of Russian words. His companion stood nearby, also laughing in a very sinister manner

Su Ruhao nodded slightly, a mysterious smile playing at the corners of his mouth: "Do you believe that repentance can truly alleviate the sins that have already been committed?"

Xia Huixi came to a gradual stop, her fingertips rummaging through her pocket until they finally touched a piece of paper. She took it out and handed it to her. Liu Fei received it, casting a puzzled glance and asking, "What is this?"

The streets of this city are wide, and the population is relatively sparse. As they step out of the hotel, they are confronted with the desolate yet blue harbor, and the waters of the Neva River appear even more turbulent due to the surging waves from the west, evoking a sense of vastness in the hearts of the people

Initially, they were merely at a standstill, when suddenly, in such a tranquil alley, a series of phone rings erupted like firecrackers breaking the silence. It was solely because of this trigger that Xia Huixi made a swift decision, held her breath, and ran towards the harbor

The three young men approached her in a manner akin to encircling their prey. The surrounding environment was so dim, yet Xia Huixi swore she could see the glint in their eyes, shimmering like that of wild wolves.

The flight on the second day

She instinctively struggled for a moment, then said in Chinese: "What are you doing?"

In recent years, the population of Russia has been declining, with a large number of Chinese workers being sent to this country. Coupled with numerous disputes in border trade in previous years, there has indeed been a relatively strong anti-Chinese sentiment within Russia during this period

It is as if the winds of history are whistling past my ears, lifting the hair from my forehead and brushing against my cheeks. Those tumultuous memories have transformed into a few drops of blood, neither deep nor shallow, still warm as they fall, yet at this moment, they have already sealed away the past

She suddenly recalled the conversation from yesterday in the car, and remembered the violent incidents that had been confirmed as anti-Chinese and humiliating to China, feeling a vague chill run down her spine. Finally, she mustered the courage to glance back, and indeed, there were several young people, likely having had a drink, their steps somewhat unsteady, not far behind her, grinning at her with a certain audacity, yet their gazes were dark enough to send a shiver down her spine. Finally, she mustered the courage to glance back, and indeed, there were several young people, likely having had a drink, their steps somewhat unsteady, not far behind her, grinning at her with a certain audacity, yet their gazes were dark enough to send a shiver down her spine

It is indeed her fault. Recently, due to the matter concerning Cui Xiang, she has been extremely busy. If she had explained the situation earlier, the station could have found time to arrange for the content of the last two or three issues to be made up. She can only repeatedly apologize: "I am truly sorry"

This can be considered a definite response, right? Only Pei Yueze possesses such determination and means; he almost never misses his targets.

She pretended not to hear and finally said softly: "Let's finish recording this episode. Regardless of your decisions, I have no objections."

Isn't saying it poorly just giving her a way out? The director's voice added a hint of anger: "It's clearly stated in the contract. What rules?"

This is not the case. How should I put it? Recently, anti-Chinese sentiment in Russia has been quite... severe. However, it is alright, it is alright. A few incidents of street attacks have occurred, all targeting Chinese men. In one case, a man was accompanied by a female companion, and as a result, the girl was completely unharmed while the man was beaten badly.

Even amidst the pervasive mist, visitors can still discern the geometric imprint of Western civilization that this city bears. As the plane descended from above, Xia Huixi suppressed the dizziness from the prolonged flight and gazed outside. The orderly urban planning resembled a meticulous sketch of a city, as if someone had used a ruler and compass to carefully outline its design

Su Ruhao almost spat out the mouthful of water he had yet to swallow, as he looked incredulously at the girl who leaned slightly towards him, her tone serious and earnest. His fingers unconsciously brushed against his forehead, and finally, she adjusted her tone and expression, smiling as she said: "No. I mean, it has nothing to do with the consultation. The question is, does that person like you?"

The violently shaking scene, the man with a brutal and sinister smile, the cold wind sweeping through the long alley, and perhaps the ringing sound that has been echoing from the bag... All of this was suddenly interrupted by a familiar low shout

"My friend runs a psychological counseling center. Miss Liu, you should take some time to visit it," she said earnestly. Just as she finished speaking, the elevator doors opened. She stepped inside and quickly pressed the close door button. "Goodbye"

Xia Huixi's face was somewhat pale. After a moment, she suddenly raised her head and said with a smile: "Let's go back"

The person paused for a moment and smiled, saying: "Miss Xia, we will arrange the tour during the day. It is best not to go out at night."

Having exited the magnificent and resplendent church, they suddenly realized that the sky outside was dim and even colder than when they had arrived. As they walked down the street, Su Ruhao suddenly stopped and said, "Wait a moment, I will go buy a cup of coffee"

She only spoke up to this point, but hurriedly changed the subject, hesitatingly moving forward again, and gently sighed: "The confession system in the Middle Ages could actually be considered a form of psychotherapy, right? The priests back then were probably the predecessors of psychologists."

Their intentions are evident. Perhaps due to the effects of strong liquor, the man's rough skin brushed against Xia Huixi's hand, burning hot. She gazed into the increasingly close eyes, yet found herself unable to break free. Unfortunately, she did not speak Russian, and could not even rely on language to express herself.

The next day, there were no scheduled activities. Xia Huixi spent the entire day in her room organizing materials. Until the afternoon, when she went out and encountered Su Ruhao, who smiled at her from a distance, but his tone carried a hint of dissatisfaction: "Why didn't you call me? Aren't you afraid of being abducted and sold when going out alone?"

Ah? Xia Huixi slightly opened her mouth, seemingly unable to speak for a long time. Finally, she said, "Oh." The tone clearly dropped, as if she were at a loss for words, and her cheeks gradually flushed with a hint of pink

Xia Huixi unconsciously gazed at Su Ruhao, as they were discussing their previous travel experiences. His tone was very reserved, not boastful at all, and the lines of his profile were simple, without a trace of excess, much like the ash-gray overcoat he wore, which was sharp and smooth, without deviation. She tilted her head to listen, and a hint of sweetness unexpectedly blossomed in her heart, as if in this moment, there were only the two of them walking side by side in this world, with no one else around.

Su Ruhao's words were interrupted by her tone filled with surprise and joy, yet he showed no sign of displeasure. As she came to a stop, he smiled and replied, "Indeed"

I am about to go to Saint Petersburg, and the next day, Xia Huixi will start assigning work. I hurried to the television station to explain the situation to the production team, and the director's expression was somewhat displeased: "Why didn't you mention it earlier? Now there is a two-week gap; who can fill in?"

Originally, the daylight in Saint Petersburg was quite long, but due to the inclement weather, as dusk approached, a thick fog enveloped the surroundings, leading to a somber night. ... Xia Huiqi had already walked halfway ... . Suddenly, she felt something was amiss. Behind her, several figures appeared, dragging forward to her feet, deepening the gloom of the atmosphere around her. She quickened her pace, wanting to exit the alley, but after just two steps, a jolt of unease struck her heart; those figures had not been shaken off and continued to follow her like shadows. Behind her, several figures appeared, dragging forward to her feet, deepening the gloom of the atmosphere around her. She quickened her pace, wanting to exit the alley, but after just two steps, a jolt of unease struck her heart; those figures had not been shaken off and continued to follow her like shadows.

Xia Huixi's eyes were distinctly black and white, her gaze bright and clear. In the end, she shook her head, her tone somewhat perplexed: "I don't know... I have never thought that I could alleviate my sins; I just thought that saying it out loud might make me feel better..."

After a journey filled with laughter and conversation, they finally entered the room, and Xia Huixi surprisingly did not feel particularly tired. Perhaps it was the thought of meeting the psychological expert Carl Gustav Jung, who was to speak at the conference. She had read countless works of his, harboring feelings akin to reverence for a towering mountain; or perhaps it was the view of the Neva River outside the window, which at this time of year flowed with a particularly roaring and magnificent force. Thus, standing by the window for a long time, her emotions were always difficult to settle.

Xia Huixi couldn't help but frown, enduring for a while before finally saying: "I am truly sorry. It is my fault. If the station is really facing difficulties, or if there are more suitable candidates..."

He looked at her with a smile that was not quite a smile, as if teasing the secrets of a young girl. His eyes sparkled with brilliance, as if embedded with diamonds, the reflected light making it impossible to gaze directly at them, leaving no place to hide one's own thoughts.

Xia Huixi covered half of the blanket, propping up that cup of water, her exposed wrist bones delicate, as if she had encountered some difficulty, and thus was desperately thinking, forgetting the world outside.

Xia Huixi, with a hesitant smile, slightly furrowed her brows, yet she did not know how to articulate it

The western corner of the church features a drapery, beneath which lies a blood-stained railing and bridge deck—this was also the purpose of the construction of the Church of the Savior on Blood: to commemorate Emperor Alexander II, who was assassinated here.

Su Ruhao turned his face without a change in expression and淡淡的问: "Is it Pei Yueze?"

The so-called savior complex refers to the phenomenon where the client regards the doctor as the sole trusted figure, projecting all their emotions onto them. If it is said that Pei Yueze has been watching his own program and unconsciously sees himself as that object of emotional projection, it is indeed a plausible interpretation

Even Professor Peng said: "Is the public security not good?"

Suddenly, a clear and melodious sound, like wind chimes ringing, was heard. The female host, Liu Fei, interjected lively: "Director Zhou, we cannot blame Xia for this. She is an external staff member and is not familiar with the current rules of the station. She is a scholar, and her previous work cannot be abandoned."

No, I don't mind this. It's just that I express myself poorly..." After a moment of silence, Xia Huixi continued, "I don't know why, but when I talk to that person, I just have a vague feeling that something is off.

Perhaps there is also the scent of strong liquor carried by the fierce wind, and without the need for verbal communication, she sensed the hostility and malice emanating from the other party. At this moment, Xia Huixi could only retreat in trepidation, a hint of bitter laughter amidst her fear, how coincidental it was that she found herself in such a situation.

As she stepped outside, she thought with some annoyance about how the faint scent of perfume behind her always clung to her, like a vengeful spirit that she could not shake off.

The wing glided past a large cloud resembling a cotton candy, as if it had picked up a few strands, drifting gently in the air currents, reminiscent of the craftsmanship of candy artists I used to see in my childhood.

Only the three of them, master and apprentice, were traveling together. After boarding, they sat separately from Professor Peng. Being in economy class, Su Ruhao's tall stature always seemed somewhat constrained. Xia Huixi knew he had chosen this seat to accompany her. They chatted along the way or took turns napping, never feeling bored. Sometimes, under the small beam of light from the reading lamp, she would look at Su Ruhao, who was slightly leaning his head against the seat, and she often felt a sense of daze, thinking how handsome this man was, certainly much more rugged and attractive than the male lead in the movie currently playing.

Xia Huixi turned around and smiled at him gently: "I have never been abroad, so it's a bit novel."

She only felt it was a coincidence, and thus smiled: "Did no one warn you yesterday? Having a man by your side can actually be less safe."

He said casually from behind her, "Why the rush? Be careful of motion sickness."

Faintly, the sunlight suddenly spreads from the horizon, dispelling the cold stiffness of the night, along with a tone that carries a burning warmth

Outside the window, there are vast landscapes of gardens in the hotel, which differ from the naturalistic winding waters and flowing wine of Chinese gardens, always distinctly divided like large barriers. Whether it is the rounded, smooth green bonsai or the square, matrix-like jungle, this conscious resistance to nature is always present. Now, being in the Western world, this feels particularly evident to her. She recalls Professor Jung's assertion about the West: Western thought places greater emphasis on the individual's separation from the whole. Now, being in the Western world, this feels particularly evident to her. She recalls Professor Jung's assertion about the West: Western thought places greater emphasis on the individual's separation from the whole.

Perhaps this topic is somewhat heavy and serious, and she was unwilling to continue, thus she averted her gaze. Meanwhile, the smile at Su Ruhao's lips deepened as he gently squinted his eyes, his gaze resting on a painting titled "The Prayer of the Last Supper"

There was a coffee shop right by the street, and he quickly walked in. Xia Huixi looked around the street scene with boredom, and suddenly saw a seagull screeching as it soared from the edge of her vision, flying towards the deep blue harbor. ... The azure sea, white gulls, and giant ships ... She felt that the scene was so beautiful it was beyond words, and almost as she silently admired it in her heart, more seagulls burst forth like lilies against the blue velvet backdrop, prompting her to unconsciously walk down the quiet alley towards that direction

Finally, Su Ruhao nodded with a smile: "Although it is a violent incident, it does not oppress the weak, which is in line with the character of the Russians"

Ke Xiahuixi blinked her eyes, her pitch-black pupils shimmering with a lively brilliance, her expression somewhat innocent, and finally nodded: "Ah, you reminded me. Are you referring to the 'savior' complex?"

Peter the Great, an ambitious and extraordinary figure in the history of the Russian Empire, devoted countless efforts and aspirations to the construction of this city. This city, in turn, does not disappoint its creator, possessing an inherent strong character. The most brutal siege battle of World War II took place here, lasting nearly three years, yet the German cavalry could never step even a half-step into the heart of this nation.

Today, it appears that this city has endured various natural and man-made disasters, yet it still stands at the pinnacle of civilization. In its struggle against nature, it has miraculously blended the splendid essences of science, art, culture, and religion. It seems like a wise being that has weathered the vicissitudes of life, exuding an extraordinary sense of tranquility and grace

The weather was still somewhat cold, and Su Ruhao was very considerate, standing on the side where the wind was strong, as if to shield Xia Huixi from the chill. That day, she wore a knee-length skirt, and at this moment, she felt regret as she realized her legs were cold. The corner of his coat happened to brush against her legs, offering a soft and gentle warmth that felt both close and distant.

Perhaps it is precisely these arguments, striking one by one at the heart, that have led to such an obsession with Jung's system of thought. It is no wonder that even the mentor has remarked that he has become a slave to the thoughts of others

Oh, is it there?

The mosaic inlaid picture is vibrant and glossy, distinct from the murals typically found in churches, as it does not fade with the passage of time, thus possessing a unique brilliance. Beneath Christ's seat in the painting stands a multitude of believers; He holds the Eucharist and the Holy Grail, and despite having foreseen the suffering to come, His expression remains gentle

She began to nervously calculate in her heart; the exit had already been blocked by them. Perhaps she should run back to the exit of the alley, where there was a vast open harbor, and there should be pedestrians.

Before she realized where her gaze was directed, the young man nonchalantly turned his eyes away, merely touching the wall of the cup with consideration, then took the now lukewarm water from her hand and returned it to the flight attendant

Perhaps it was truly a cruel joke played by fate; she had worn a pair of ankle boots when she stepped out, which now felt particularly uncomfortable. After only a few steps, someone grabbed her arm. This kind of physical contact instilled a fear that was difficult to articulate, as if handcuffs were tightly constricting her, causing her breath to quicken immediately

Xia Huixi did not respond, quietly standing in the wind, gazing at the church, as if she were a graceful bamboo standing tall. Finally, soft words escaped her lips: "I often feel that psychology and religious sentiments are difficult to separate. Sometimes, when I step into a church, I feel very comfortable, just like confessing..."

Miss Xia really no longer needs to do this job. The car you were sitting in at the entrance of the stage the day before yesterday, tsk tsk, there are probably not many people in this city who have one, right

It is said that arriving in Saint Petersburg at this time means missing the most enchanting and intoxicating season. However, even so, in the eyes of Xia Hui Xi, it is still a city filled with unfamiliarity and freshness

They stood beneath the dome, with the walls still adorned with mosaic images of Saint Jesus. From a distance, it appeared as if painted with oil, featuring large swathes of sky blue and gold, exquisite and resplendent. However, only upon closer inspection could one discern the fragmented imperfections of the mosaic tiles. Those minute traces lay across the figures' skin and garments, yet inexplicably evoked a poignant sense of beauty.

She felt a secret joy in her heart, and a smile appeared at the corners of her mouth. Suddenly, Su Ruhao asked her gently, "What exactly was the case you mentioned last time?"

After a long silence, he finally spoke to break the stillness: "Let's go over there and take a look."

Don't you think that person seems more like they are looking for an excuse to get close to you

Su Ruhao could not help but chuckle, and his mood became clearer: "Indeed, we have arrived."

In the end, she still listened to him and quietly leaned back against the chair. Until they had completely landed, she seemed to bounce up like a child, looking down at him and saying, "We have arrived." She resembled a child on a spring outing, and also like a fledgling eagle ready to soar, her tone and expression exuding a delightful impatience.

Su Ruhao, seeing that she had been silent for a long time, smiled and said: "I apologize, I should not have casually speculated about who it is"

Xia Huixi closed the window, and the night was exceptionally beautiful, gently flowing in as if it were silently adding the softest footnote to the first night of this journey. She turned over, and as her cheek touched the pillow, it felt like a light feather's caress, sweeping all consciousness into the depths of dreams.

Xia Huixi pressed her lips together, unconsciously turning to the window, seemingly reminiscing about the moments spent with Pei Yueze, trying to refute her thoughts. However, the more she tried, the less she could argue against it. His attitude towards her, as Su Ruhao had said, could be viewed from an ordinary person's perspective as "liking".

Interpersonal relationships are very important, and she is aware of this. However, since they are about to cease being colleagues, she does not mind retaliating a little. Along with the closing of the elevator doors, there was also Liu Fei's stiff expression, which inadvertently made Xia Huixi feel somewhat pleased.

The corners of his lips curled slightly as he gazed intently at her, and finally, as if casually, he asked: "Have you ever tried?"

The previous smile was gradually swallowed by the thick, bottomless ink color, and Su Ruhao's gaze lingered on her for a long time. Suddenly, he felt an impulse to touch her seemingly beautiful and innocent cheek

It is actually not considered a case. I cannot even be certain whether he truly needs psychological treatment. Yet, he insists on seeking consultation

I thought you would first take a stroll over at the square" Su Ruhao looked at her thoughtfully, "Why come here?"

Su Ruhao took the cup of warm water handed to him by the flight attendant and placed it on the small table in front of Xia Huixi, suddenly breaking into a smile