Chapter 10: A Trip for Three

Qingfeng Temple is said to have been established during the Warring States period and is one of the sacred sites of Taoism. The Three Pure Ones enshrined in the temple are reputed to be highly effective; as long as you sincerely seek their assistance, your wishes are sure to be fulfilled

Yu'an's gaze was somewhat dazed, and she silently prayed, hoping that she would not become like the Princess Wencheng of the Western Han Dynasty, who was married off to a distant land. After all, she was aware of the current situation in Dongyu, and a marriage alliance was an excellent solution.

In the eaves of the garden, groups of talented scholars are admiring the flowers and the scenery, perhaps occasionally reciting their fine works, nodding and shaking their heads, earning rounds of applause.

Under the leadership of Zhang Miao, the two of them made their way to the Youlan Garden. Along the way, they gradually encountered more scholars and literati, lightly waving their thin fans. It seemed that they all wished to take in the extraordinary sights today and partake in this elegant affair.

When the Clear Wind Temple appeared before him, Liu Feng realized how solemn and profound this Taoist sanctuary, which had endured for hundreds of years without being destroyed, truly was. Looking at the not particularly tall walls, which were covered in the marks of time, and listening to the distant sound of the bell, he suddenly felt an inexplicable tranquility in his heart, and could not help but exclaim that Taoism is indeed a great school that has persisted for thousands of years

Ignoring their reactions, Sun Mofei walked directly into the room and found a place to sit down. "In the morning, we need to maintain order, and I didn't even have the chance to greet Sister Xiang'er on stage. It's been half a year since we last met, and she has become even more radiant."

"That is only natural; the moon is the celestial maiden from the Nine Netherworlds descending to the mortal realm, and these ordinary people are bound to lose their composure in her presence." Liu Feng continued deliberately, noticing the slight blush on Xiao Yue'er’s face.

The three of them had a good relationship, so some jokes were harmless. They continued their conversation, and Sun Mofei's involvement piqued the interest of the two girls regarding the evening's arrangements, prompting them to inquire about the progress of the setup. After a bout of nonsensical chatter from Sun Mofei, the two girls and *Tu* *Shu* generally understood that things were basically on track.

As the formalities concluded and the three had nearly finished their meal, Liu Feng suggested taking the opportunity to stroll around Yuming City again while the crowd on the street dispersed, receiving unanimous support from the other two.

How many years later will Liu Feng still come to this Sanqing Hall, to reflect on the life he once wished for, to reminisce about the bond that he could not let go of between the three realms

What is even more remarkable is that there are flowers blooming in every season, making the Orchid Garden perpetually fragrant and a wonder of Yuling City. However, it is only during significant occasions that the public is allowed to visit, and today happens to be one of those days

At the moment noon arrived, the final ceremony of the coming-of-age ritual was also completed. However, since Yuanyuan had not yet been betrothed, she did not wear the hairpin. Subsequently, the entire city once again resonated with drums and gongs to celebrate.

As Zhang Miao arrived at the Sanqing Palace, he recalled that Zhang Miao had said that sincere wishes could be fulfilled. Xiao Yue'er quietly stepped forward, clasped her hands together, and knelt there, silently praying for something.

A ray of the setting sun poured into the quiet hall, casting its light on the somewhat youthful yet serious faces of the three individuals. The blue smoke rising from the incense in the hall made them appear particularly solemn at this moment

"Mo Feige, take me with you. After watching the fireworks, let's sneak away. It's very close from here anyway. I just want to go and release a lantern and then come back," Sun Yuxiang said, clinging to his arm and acting coy.

However, this has nothing to do with the three who are well-fed and satisfied; with Zhang Miao around, it is equivalent to having an additional free tour guide. It turns out that there are also several notable attractions hidden in Yubing City, such as Huansha Bay, Qingfeng Pavilion, and Youlan Garden

Sun Mofei looked at the little girl in front of him with a slight headache. Turning back, he saw a similar longing in his sister's eyes, which made him feel a bit relieved. His sister had already reached the age of marriage; although she was a princess, she still remained in the embroidery chamber. Perhaps tonight she might encounter her destined match.

Sun Yuxiang chuckled as she ate, "Oh, Sister Ai, you are in the springtime of your youth." The latter, feeling embarrassed, began to swat at her. After their playful laughter, the two lay on the bed, with Sun Yuxiang twirling her fingers around the ends of her hair, "That’s true, Sister Ai is already fifteen. Most girls from ordinary families have become mothers by now. But don’t worry, your royal uncle dotes on you and will surely find you a good match."

In the Orchid Garden, Liu Feng and the other two had just finished appreciating the garden, not because it was particularly large, but rather due to the astonishing variety of flowers and plants within it, even Zhang Miao, who often claimed to be well-traveled, was somewhat amazed.

In the Prince Lan's residence in the eastern part of the city, Sun Yuxiang, who had just finished lunch, hurried to the backyard to visit Yu Yuan's room. The two had not seen each other for more than six months, so this reunion was naturally an occasion for warm affection.

Mo Feige, would you take me to Huanshaw Bay to release lanterns tonight?

Dozens of dining tables were quickly set up on the high platform in the city center. Today, all elderly individuals in Yuming City who are aged sixty or above can enjoy a free lunch, which once again earned the praise of the people for Prince Lan.

"Mo Fei, you are teasing Xiang again." Sun Yuxiang pretended to be angry and stamped her foot, while Sun Yu'ai rolled her eyes at him in annoyance

Thinking of this, Sun Mofei agreed to the willful princess who was still clinging to him. However, he repeatedly urged them not to speak of it. As he was leaving, he saw the gratitude in his sister's eyes, and a slight bitterness rose in his heart

According to Zhang Miao, Huansha Bay was a place where women often washed their clothes in ancient times. Due to the limited opportunities for women to go out, an oil lamp was set adrift here to seek out their fates and connections, eventually evolving into a beautiful legend over time

Zhang Miao on one side was explaining some of the intentions and details to Xiao Yue'er, who was listening attentively. After all, her coming-of-age ceremony was approaching. Although it could not be compared to that of the royal family, it was still a significant event in her life

After the two maids left, the sisters began to chat by the bedside, discussing the spectacular scene of the day, sharing the thoughts of the young girls, and naturally the conversation turned to their future destinies

Prince Lan expressed his heartfelt gratitude to everyone for attending Yu Yuan's coming-of-age ceremony, and then announced the cancellation of the curfew for the evening, celebrating the joyous occasion with fireworks and a lantern market

At this moment, Xiaoyue's face turned even redder; her heart was filled with a hint of joy, but more so with shyness. Pointing at the two, she stomped her foot and walked forward.

Liu Feng was initially skeptical, but his arrival in this world had already shattered his previous mindset. Since he was here, he decided to accept it. Kneeling beside Xiao Yue'er, he prayed for the Three Pure Ones to bless his family in this life with safety and to grant him a peaceful existence.

Choosing a day is not as good as hitting the day; it is a fortunate coincidence that one cannot miss. Liu Feng also wishes to witness the wonders of flora and fauna in this world. As for Xiao Yue, being a girl, she is naturally not immune to the allure of these flowers and plants

After being questioned, the three individuals entered the garden, captivated by the beautiful scenery before them. Although it was the time of early spring, a perfect season for flower viewing, indicating that this was a moment of blooming flowers and boundless beauty, it was only upon witnessing this scene that Liu Feng, who had lived two lifetimes, understood why some people were referred to as flower enthusiasts.

After a brief moment of concealing their thoughts, the two resumed their casual conversation. After a while, a maid outside announced that the heir had arrived, prompting both to quickly rise to greet him

Furthermore, "Danxing Nimai" discusses the medicinal properties of many rare and exotic herbs, and it is possible that the collection in the Orchid Garden includes some of these. While I do not wish to steal them, seeing the actual specimens is certainly much more gratifying than merely reading about them in books

Leaving the garden, Qingfeng Pavilion became the next destination for the three, as the lantern lighting and wishing at Huansha Bay would only become lively in the evening. Walking down the street, they saw a similar scene of lantern riddles, with each shop joining in the festivities. The entire city was celebrating, creating a lively atmosphere. Moreover, Prince Lan was known for his benevolence, and the common people were eager to seize the opportunity to seek good fortune during the grand occasion of the princess's coming of age.

On the high platform, the ceremony for the coming-of-age ritual was proceeding step by step, with the cheers from the crowd below rising and falling, continuously elevating the atmosphere to a climax. As the saying goes, experts observe the subtleties while novices enjoy the spectacle; at this moment, Liu Feng belonged to the latter group, yet even so, it was quite enjoyable

Meanwhile, Zhang Miao, who was on the side, saw that both of them were already in prayer, and also knelt down beside them. His face changed from a playful expression to one of solemnity as he recited prayers to the Three Pure Ones.

As I passed by the elevated platform in the morning, it had already been cleaned up, with a row of guards stationed around it. The fireworks in the evening are likely to be set off here

Sun Mofei nearly knocked over the teacup he had just picked up, "Sister Xiang'er, please don't joke around with your brother Mofei, you know that my aunt and my father do not allow it."

After walking for approximately fifteen minutes, the fragrance of flowers ahead grew increasingly strong. Liu Feng knew they were close. After turning a corner, a delicate little garden appeared before everyone, with soldiers stationed at the entrance, inspecting the passersby.

Just as they had not yet reached the door, a burst of cheerful laughter came from within. "Are the two young ladies well? This humble servant has come to pay respects to Princess Yu Xiang and Princess Yu An." After these words, a handsome figure clad in armor appeared before the two.

The streets and bookstores have once again regained their previous vibrancy; however, compared to them, the inns and restaurants are still the most bustling. After all, it is now noon, precisely twelve o'clock. Although it was lively just a moment ago, the crowd has now dispersed. People from all corners are naturally looking for a place to satisfy their hunger, which has left the staff running around tirelessly, sweating profusely.

Zhang Miao explained softly: "Without the permission of Prince Lan, it is not allowed to take flowers and plants out. However, if someone in your family is truly ill and requires this medicine, you may explain the situation to Prince Lan, and in the end, permission will be granted. Those who love flowers sacrificing them to save the common people has already become a well-known story in Yubing City"

At this moment, the happiest one was undoubtedly Xiaoyue. While Liu Feng and Zhang Miao were merely admiring the scenery, Xiaoyue was astonished to discover many herbs and plants here that possessed the marvelous effects mentioned in the "Danxing Nimai." This place truly is a treasure trove for healers, Xiaoyue silently marveled.

Sun Yuxiang picked up a cup of tea and angrily placed it on the table in front of him, "Drink up, Mo Feige. It has been so many days since we last met, and you are still as glib as ever. No wonder Sister-in-law likes you so much."

As for the Orchid Garden, it was specially constructed by Prince Lan upon his arrival in Yubing City. The garden is filled with rare flowers and exotic plants collected from various regions, showcasing an astonishing variety that is overwhelming to behold

Yu Yuan let out a light sigh, "Sister, I have already undergone the hairpin ceremony, yet I am still in the waiting pavilion. Although Father has been looking for a match for me over the years, it has ultimately come to nothing."

Among them, there is no shortage of sycophants. When they saw Xiaoyuer approaching with a furtive demeanor to flirt, they were all repelled by Liu Feng and Zhang Miao. Observing the jealous glances around, Zhang Miao couldn't help but smile wryly, "I say, Yuguan, with Sister Yue'er here, I feel that the beauty of today's Youlan Garden is overshadowed. Just look at the gazes of these dashing gentlemen."