OVL 05 Lankao Mountain

Thus, perhaps when we reach the end, due to the civilization that has merged with the bloodline of our ancestors, this world will not be a desolate wasteland of machinery and wealth. Although we can never clearly see them, for they are unlike bronze wares, porcelain, or even architecture, and their medium is so fragile that it is merely a yellowed score. Yet they are alive, singing and dancing, possessing a moment of beauty that is never inferior to any treasure.

The call is connected

He gave himself three years. Long ago, he stood before her hospital bed, his gaze restrained and dim, yet his expression remained proud: "I give you time; it is alright if you cannot accept me now, I can wait."

He has nothing to say

Luo Yao first went to the restroom, splashed her face with cold water, and then gathered the courage to look at herself in the mirror. In fact, she did not appear disheveled; her hair was still neatly tied back, with a slight hint of redness in her eyes, yet there was a calmness between her brows and eyes—so well concealed.

The conversation had temporarily ceased. There was a restroom in the private room, but Luo Yao felt stifled and preferred to stand up and walk to the restroom at the end of the corridor for some fresh air. The carpet was very soft, and the only two private rooms had doors that exuded an elegant dark red hue, with a faint scent of sandalwood in the air. After coming out of the restroom, her hands had been rinsed with warm water, and when she pushed the door open, she felt the metal handle was somewhat cold.

The obsidian seemed to gaze up at her like a cat's eye. Luo Yao really wanted to take it down; she regretted giving it to him at that time, her tone refreshingly devoid of any shadow: "It took me a long time to obtain this. It is my most valuable possession, here, I give it to you."

Visitors who came to see the exhibition included both organizations and individuals, many of whom could not be neglected. As a result, formal staff replaced the volunteer guides, moving between the offices and the exhibition halls, standing for most of the day. In no time, the herbal tea "Fat Big Sea" became an essential item in the office

He raised his head, his gaze gentle: "Almost, with my professional explanation"

He listened in silence for a long time, and finally said: "No, if I were there, I fear she would not be able to accept it"

Xiao Li said: "This is Miss Bai, Bai Luoyao"

The hand cream placed in the hotel bathroom is very effective, with a subtle fragrance that leaves even the fingertips exceptionally soft. At this moment, she feels somewhat uneasy, yet remains polite, her demeanor so well-behaved that it brings a smile to his lips.

Dr. Wang frowned and said, "Her mentor has passed away; what does that have to do with you?"

I can arrange for her to have a meal with you

Li Zhijin's gaze became profound, accompanied by a faint smile, and he finally said: "Don't you think the dramatic conflict in the two acts of 'Foolish Dreams' and 'Splashing Water' is particularly intense?"

Sister Lin nodded with the experience of someone who has been through it: "Oh, he is good-looking. If I were ten years younger, I would be completely captivated."

From the perspective of a professional psychologist, he had visited Zhan Zecheng's office, which was simple to the point of being monotonous. This actually reflects his personality: calm and reserved, always possessing a subtle sharpness. It is not like the current state, resembling an enraged beast. Dr. Wang remained silent for a moment and insisted, "You haven't told me the whole situation"

They stepped out of the theater, the cool cold wind filling their lungs. After walking a considerable distance, Luo Yao suddenly turned back to look at the theater, which still shone brightly on the high steps. It was only then that they felt surprised, and while talking to him, they had completely forgotten about the steps beneath their feet

Zhang Zecheng only stayed for a moment before leaving. Sister Lin quietly leaned over and asked, "Luo Yao, what were you daydreaming about just now?"

Li Zhijin, not without pride, said: "Don't you know? My family started out in the spice business back in the day! This is an inherited instinct"

In that moment, Luo Yao seemed to be lost in thought, completely unresponsive. The people in the room looked at her, feeling awkward. Her gaze was clearly directed at Zhan Zecheng, yet it appeared as if she was looking through his face, gazing at the traditional Chinese painting of peonies on the wall.

He was silent for a few seconds and then said, "Oh. Let's talk about it next time." Finally, in a nonchalant tone, he added, "That's fine, just don't stay at home all the time. Hmm?"

She almost thought she had gone to the wrong place. However, there are only two rooms, and her memory should not be so far off.

Li Zhijin beside me suddenly let out a soft sound of surprise

Two people, separated by a deep chasm, glanced at the sky almost simultaneously. He, looking through the glass, saw the traces of rainwater spreading and sliding down, resembling a delicate ink wash painting. Meanwhile, she lifted her head and saw a warm smile, youthful and handsome, pulling her under the umbrella

That was his great-grandfather, and he casually mentioned his name without any disrespect. On the contrary, after the passage of many years, he was able to love something with the same dedication and depth as his own ancestors

He put one hand in his pocket and said in an unprecedented serious tone: "Miss Bai, there is something I would like to ask you for a favor"

Bai Luoyao swore that she had indeed detected a hint of distress on his face, and thus she suppressed a laugh: "Is it really that bad? She only spoke a few words to you at most, so you don't need to be so righteous."

When she first met him, she was almost the only one talking, while Li Zhijin was as elegant as a young nobleman, exuding charm; upon their next encounter, he appeared like a big child, brimming with unexpectedly vibrant energy. However, at this moment, there was an inexplicable awkwardness, as if they had suddenly become strangers, and she could only chuckle softly and lower her head to eat the broccoli

Luo Yao bit her lip fiercely, her voice tinged with an unmistakable ferocity, yet it was clearly laced with despair: "Zhan Zecheng, is there anything you want that cannot be obtained? Why must you treat me this way..."

Luo Yao nodded and said, "I will definitely be there to support you."

The young man is shaking hands with the curator, standing right in front of him. There is her familiar scent, broad shoulders, and even with her back turned to him, even with her eyes covered, he would still know who this is

Luo Yao stared blankly, suddenly feeling a pang of heartache, unsure whether it was for Cui's regret, Zhu Maichen's indifference, or the realization that twenty years of companionship could not withstand the changes of a single day in the world

Li Zhijin saw her from a distance talking on the phone. The weather was indeed too cold, and her complexion was pale, yet her lips, whether coated with lip gloss or not, were as red as fire, truly a case of red lips and white teeth. Despite wearing so many layers, her slender figure made her look somewhat incongruous with the heavy cotton clothing, exuding a delicate charm. He also forgot that during the day, she had unconditionally and without regard for the consequences transferred a screening ticket to him, and he suddenly felt all his frustration dissipate.

Luo Yao watched his figure disappear outside the door, and suddenly felt a release of pressure, not even noticing the towel falling to the ground, forcing a smile and saying: "What?"

Bai Luoyao was talking to him, yet she felt an inexplicable sense of unease deep down. She did not know the reason, perhaps it was simply because they had changed to a different hotel for dinner today, which was clearly of a much higher standard than the first one. She forced herself to focus on the conversation when she suddenly heard Wang Ziliang ask: "Miss Bai, did you study religious studies before? As far as I know, girls who study religion tend to have a more insightful mindset than the average person."

She believes that I caused her teacher's death. The next moment, Zhan Zecheng suddenly could not hide his irritation: "Tell me, when can she return to normal"

Such an obvious fact does not even require his professional analysis. Wang Ziliang did not hesitate and said directly: "Mr. Zhang, what exactly is going on? You must know better than I do. If you want me to help her, I need to know more."

When Dr. Wang came out, Zhecheng Zhang had already been waiting in the car for a while. He casually fiddled with his cufflinks, but his tone was serious: "How is it?"

When he speaks to her, there is never any carelessness; even over the phone, there is always a special attentiveness, as if she were right in front of him

The secretary took a moment to recall who Dr. Wang was: "Oh, alright"

The elegantly natural water-ground tone, at this moment, weeps with blood; while the delicate figure, as graceful as a cloud, appears to be in a frenzy

He interrupted her cleanly and decisively, and to Luo Yao's ears, it seemed as if there were layers of distant echoes: "I do not want anything else"

He splashes water before the horse with resentment, severing the strings of the zither, I am too heartless. Only after a grand dream do I awaken, wishing to follow the clear waves to wash away the murky dust

Zhu Maichen and his wife Cui had been together for twenty years. In the final year, Cui, unwilling to endure poverty, abandoned him and ultimately did not wait for her husband to achieve success and fame. She went to plead for her husband's forgiveness, but it was merely a delusion. After enduring humiliation, Cui drowned herself in the river.

It may truly be just about enjoying such a process. The tone is very calm, devoid of any hint of boasting, and there is no sense of satisfaction from reaching the destination. It is as if, at this moment, one has merely walked a short distance, and because the scenery is pleasant, one walks while admiring it. The pupils have a hue reminiscent of amber, reflecting the smile of a girl, warm and gentle.

He quickly noticed someone entering, reined in his expression, returned to normal, signed the document, and then remembered to instruct, "Please contact Dr. Wang for me"

It is said that men who are focused on their work are always the most captivating. Luo Yao smiled slightly as she saw Li Zhijin leaning down, speaking to the male actor. She had never seen him with such a solemn and serious expression. She could even imagine his tone, completely absorbed, just like that day at the hot pot restaurant when he took a sip of juice and then said to himself: "If you like it, just go for it. You know... just like Li Zhengyuan."

Dr. Wang was very perceptive and quickly said: "From this perspective, Mr. Zhan, do you believe that your illness is related to that of your friend?"

During meals, she remained somewhat distracted, perhaps anything related to Yi Qin always made her feel a bit uneasy. Wang Ziliang sat right next to her; he was a very considerate and graceful man. Whenever he saw her sitting alone, he would always engage her in a brief conversation.

He simply said: "I want to see you"

On the stage, Cui was nearly mad, her hands clawing at the earth, attempting to extract the water that had already seeped into the soil. Her husband stood nearby, his gaze filled with hatred, perhaps also with pity, yet devoid of any trace of love

She saw a subtle flowing inner beauty in the mirror, so young yet constantly in motion, which momentarily evoked many thoughts. Many things that had been abandoned by people over the past half century were gradually being remembered. And as long as they are remembered, even the faintest spark will always reveal hope

Around 5 to 6 o'clock, it is the most congested and noisy time in the city

Suddenly, it became quiet

Yes, have you heard of "The Lankao Mountain"?

Zhang Zecheng's tone was casual and affectionate: "You’re back?"

She remembers some details that she had read in a book before

Luo Yao did not know why she suddenly felt embarrassed. She knew he was waiting for her to hang up the phone first, but then he suddenly said, "I met your mother today"

The hotel is a small garden-style building with a Shanghai flair, its understated name nestled against the gray wall, barely noticeable as one passes by; Luo Yao didn't catch a single word. A security guard stands at the entrance, dressed in a black coat and wearing headphones; if he were to don a pair of sunglasses, he would surely resemble a warrior from The Matrix.

Bai Luoyao clenched her teeth tightly and finally spoke: "What?"

Everyone else was talking, and no one noticed what she was doing at that moment. Wang Ziliang's gaze sharpened, he gently raised his head, and a smile appeared at the corner of his mouth, yet he remained silent, simply watching.

In the not-so-distant place, along the line of streetlights, someone was walking briskly towards her, tall in stature, holding a black umbrella, dressed in a dark green khaki trench coat, waving at her from afar. Luo Yao took a deep breath and spoke quickly: "Zhan Zecheng, I have to go, I have a date." She deliberately emphasized the words "date," pronouncing them clearly and beautifully, "As for the other matters... let's just forget about them..."

Wang Ziliang nodded slightly and said, "That is also true."

Later, Luo Yao could hardly remember what else was said, only that he had eaten too much and felt overly full, even changing the sauce twice. However, the way he prepared it was truly delicious, with just the right amount of spiciness, making even the most ordinary dishes stand out when dipped in it

The applause from the audience was thunderous, as if a storm had swept through the small theater. Luo Yao turned her face slightly and said, "Congratulations, the performance was such a success"

What is even more terrifying is that, in addition to this, the ceramic hall requires renovation, and the exhibition hall needs to be rearranged. Luo Yao was so exhausted that she hardly had time to catch her breath. Just when she finally managed to sit back in the office before the end of the workday, she heard the news that she needed to go out for dinner with Sister Lin and the old curator, which almost made her cry out of despair. Especially since the dinner companions were related to Yi Qin, it made her even more anxious.

At the last moment before leaving, unafraid of the cold wind, he drove her home. Finally, at the entrance of the community, he handed her the umbrella and solemnly said: "I will come to pick you up tomorrow evening"

He was not displeased; the smile at the corners of his lips was quite childlike: "It was fine at first. But that little girl... really too..." He pondered for a moment, "enthusiastic."

So many people, their weary and indifferent expressions concealed beneath polite exchanges. Luo Yao was only deeply impressed by Wang Ziliang, a man who appeared to be around forty years old, with short hair, a warm gaze, and a comforting presence. He was observing her, yet he did not exert the slightest sense of pressure on her. Luo Yao smiled faintly and turned her gaze away.

In the end, is it that one is unwilling to see her fall into the dust? Or is it merely an instinctive reach, followed by a continued avoidance?

Fortunately, the umbrella is large enough to cover two people, leaving a sparse space between them, which is surprisingly ample.

Yet he is ultimately unwilling to speak again, his long fingers caressing the gem on the cufflink, as if the brief explanation given earlier was already the limit.

Zhang Zecheng did not hesitate: "I will do my best"

He should have been standing on the stage, accepting congratulations alongside the actors, but at this moment, he is hidden among the crowd, a faint smile lingering in his eyes

He said: "I am very low-key"

When the secretary entered, she saw the man's profile, so cold and clear, just like the weather of these days. She suddenly understood why her boss, so young and handsome, at an age when one should be indulging in romance, always maintained a monk-like discipline, never entangled in any rumors. She was certain that she was not eavesdropping on purpose, yet she still heard him speaking in such a tone, cautious, unwilling to raise his voice even slightly, willingly gentle.

He seemed to have anticipated her response, merely smiling faintly and asking, "Do you truly not mind anymore?"

Finally, he turned to the side, allowing her to pass by. The passage was very narrow, and she walked with great caution, yet she still brushed against him. Luo Yao knew she must have been imagining it, but she distinctly heard the sound of fabric rustling, which felt somewhat itchy, as if it were scratching at her heart.

What kind of cruel person would conceive such a drama? Everyone watches coldly as the half-mad woman uses a red flower as a phoenix crown and a patchwork robe as a wedding dress, clinging to the remnants of hope, always believing that everything can start anew

Zhan Zecheng patiently extended his hand, a faint smile playing at the corners of his mouth, his gaze gentle, seemingly unbothered by the wait for the young lady

She finally couldn't hold back any longer: "VIP ticket?"

The young lady also approached, placing a clean towel over the stain to absorb the excess liquid, thus covering the light brown patch. This made Luo Yao somewhat uneasy. She reluctantly moved her hand away, awkwardly leaning back against the chair, her fingers still clutching the towel, unwilling to let go for a long time, as if it were a stove that could provide warmth in the winter.

That phrase lingered in Luoyao's mind for a while: Water spilled before the horse cannot be retrieved.

Look at the appearance of Li Zhijin on mhetushu.com, it seems that he really wants to knock the chopsticks on her head: "Do you know that ticket was right next to me?"

The private room is quite spacious, but with the sudden influx of many people and the conversations that ensue, it becomes lively.

"The Palace of Eternal Life" and "The Peony Pavilion", with their vibrant colors and soft whispers, are both so beautiful... Why was this particular one chosen?

The rain patters against the city, a chill mingling with the moisture in the air

The actress was so engrossed in her performance that she stumbled, her stance faltering, and it seemed she was about to fall to the ground. Beside her, Zhu Maicheng extended his hand, neither too forcefully nor too lightly, to catch her falling body, only to gently let go again.

Kunqu

When I went out, I saw Li Zhijin holding a bowl of sauce, intently mixing it. He had taken off his coat, revealing a crisp white thick shirt, with his head lowered, showcasing his well-defined profile, as if the small bowl in his hand was the most important thing at that moment

Luo Yao felt a moment of daze, recalling a long time ago when she had thrown a thick professional dictionary at Zhan Zecheng. He did not dodge or avoid it, not even blinking, as the hard corner of the book struck his brow with a dull thud. Perhaps it was because she knew how good he was to her that she had done so many nearly insane things. Her intentions were unprecedentedly clear, solely to inflict pain, solely to make him understand what resentment was, and the irreversibility of actions. Perhaps it was because she knew how good he was to her that she had done so many nearly insane things. Her intentions were unprecedentedly clear, solely to inflict pain, solely to make him understand what resentment was, and the irreversibility of actions

Human nature is generally like this; no matter how much love and loyalty there is, as long as there is betrayal at the last moment, it can erase all the beauty, leaving only a sense of coldness

It seemed that only after the memories had concluded could one find the strength to revive. Luo Yao suddenly became aware, and saw Sister Lin looking at her with a smile that was neither fully a smile nor a frown. In a fluster, she hurriedly extended her hand and said, "Hello, Mr. Zhan."

Li Zhijin indeed provided Luo Yao with VIP treatment. In the backstage, she saw the girl playing the role of Cui, tall and slender, carefully applying makeup to her eyebrows, while the makeup artist was helping her put on a headpiece

It is truly incomprehensible. Luo Yao's complexion gradually returned to normal as she concealed a smile and raised her wrist to check the time: it has indeed been a long night

Such a reaction can only come from being cherished to the core. In the past, he would tousle her hair and then press his lips against her forehead, kissing her gently.

A round mushroom fell into the sauce bowl, which was quite unfortunate, as the splattered sauce dripped onto his white shirt. Luo Yao glanced over, the deep brown color catching her eye, and her fingers moved as if she wanted to brush it away, her hand holding the tissue pale and tense. Li Zhijin's gaze fell on her fingers, then he lifted his eyes to her lips, and soon lowered his head slightly, seemingly lost in thought.

He gave her three years, and then reappeared just like that, self-righteous, believing that she had long forgotten everything and that they could start anew

Because there had been a premonition beforehand, it did not feel sudden; rather, it was somewhat bewildering, as if every place was a trap, and she had nowhere to escape.

It was yet another answer that took her by surprise

Li Zhijin's hair seems to have grown a bit longer, no longer short like a hedgehog. In fact, such short hair truly tests a man's appearance, as there is no room for any embellishment. Yet even when faced with direct scrutiny, he still manages to withstand the test, ultimately being quite pleasing to the eye

As anticipated, following the donation ceremony, several cultural relics made their first appearances in the financial and entertainment sections of the news media. In the financial section, the Shang Shuangyang Zun was always accompanied by news of Yi Qin's upcoming collaboration with a certain group, while the entertainment section provided a highly gossipy detailed introduction to Ms. Fang Liuyi's custom qipao style, along with a statement from the animal protection association regarding the fur item, accompanied by the slowly unveiled Southern Song dynasty masterpiece. In short, the museum's exposure rate surged, and upon reflection, it is hard to determine who the true beneficiaries are.

Right by the roadside is a hot pot restaurant, and Luo Yao doesn't need to think: "In this kind of weather, it's best to gather around a warm stove"

Bai Luoyao truly can no longer hold on; he always knows how to strike at her soft spot, he knows when she is most vulnerable, and he knows the past that she dares not speak of

Finally, I remembered to ask: "What are you performing?"

Upon looking up, I saw her come out and smiled as I said: "You like spicy food, right? Try what I made; it must be incredibly delicious." It was as if I were a proud child, placing it in front of her, "It really is very tasty."

Luo Yao looked at the thick sauce and suddenly felt a bit guilty: "Hey, you weren't very angry just now, were you?"

Luo Yao suppressed the urge to look, simply handing him a tissue, and slowly asked him: "Kunqu?"

The busy tone of the phone. In the end, she still hung up the call

Finally, Li Zhijin patted her shoulder, looking at her so intently that when Luo Yao turned her face, she was almost startled by him

Zhan Zecheng turned around and politely extended his hand: "Hello"

Zhang Zecheng gave a slight nod to Wang Ziliang, then, maintaining a composed demeanor, directed his gaze towards Bai Luoyao. She lowered her head, her hands resting beneath the table, resembling a small child, embarrassed and unable to meet anyone's eyes after her earlier lapse in composure, her usually fair complexion now tinged with a faint pink.

Is it not the case that all people are inevitably drawn to such imperfections

He must answer this question; otherwise, he himself will be unable to explain the current situation of mutual torment.

The car drove smoothly, and Zhang Zecheng slightly pursed his lips, his pupils reflecting the scenery flowing past the car window like a stream. Calmly, he said: "She insisted on breaking up with me because her mentor passed away. I disagreed, and she attempted suicide. I have been waiting. I thought three years would be enough for her to forget."

They walked out with the crowd. Luo Yao asked, "Do we really not need to go to the backstage?" Li Zhijin's eyes sparkled, like stars shining in the sky: "I think it's more practical to find a place to eat something."

Regardless of whether he can see it or not, Luo Yao gently shakes his head, doing his utmost to sound as nonchalant as possible: "It's been so long, I've already forgotten the past, so please don't mind it anymore, alright?"

At that moment, Zhan Zecheng took her hand in his palm, his handsome features and charming smile making him quite pleasing to the eye: "Isn't your most valuable possession me?"

She stood under the eaves and answered the phone, originally thinking it was Li Zhijin, but it was not. It was always that same number, one she could press skillfully even with her eyes closed, a number that had never changed.

Xiao Li has already arrived, so he briefly introduced the remaining few people

The first streetlight in the city began to glow, a bright yellow, making the raindrops appear even more delicate.

In fact, there is no need to ask; he knows where it is, on the Wu Yue Mountain, where his father is. Zhan Zecheng looked at the windowsill dampened by the rain, a gray haze enveloping the scene, his vision in disarray. He held the phone in one hand while the other rested on his forehead, momentarily lost in thought.

Luo Yao felt somewhat at a loss. While she could remain indifferent during her school days, now her response was merely to say: "Studying religion is not the same as believing in it. I actually think that those who engage in research are often much more objective than those who are wholeheartedly devoted to their faith."

The doctor's voice remained steady: "The best approach is to see her most genuine emotional state."

He subconsciously asked, "Where?"

Wang Ziliang lightly knocked over a small dish of fragrant vinegar with his elbow and quickly called for the young lady. Prior to this, Luo Yao had already taken a towel at hand and began to wipe carefully and earnestly.

He did not show the slightest hint of impatience, and even his threats sounded like gentle words without a trace of malice: "Luo Yao, you may try to continue not speaking."

The rain falls in a gentle patter, showing an increasing intensity and an unrelenting trend.

Bai Luoyao listened carefully until he finished speaking, her brows and eyes filled with a flowing beauty as clear as water, blooming like a flower: "Such a wonderful thing, how could I possibly refuse?"

He walked on the outside and asked her, "What will you treat me to eat?"