Chapter 943 Encounter
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Translator: Dragon Boat Translation Editor: Dragon Boat Translation
After exploring the upstairs area, Mingyu and Zhou Ying decided it was time for dinner. They gathered the guards and headed to the Mother G.o.d Temple kitchen for a simple meal.
Later, they each also donated 1,000 taels for incense.
Once dinner was finished, Zhou Ying noticed the stunning display of blooming peach blossoms on the mountain. “How about we go take a closer look?”
“Absolutely,” Mingyu agreed. “I heard there are stone benches for resting on the mountain.”
The group ascended the mountain with the guards automatically forming a protective circle around them.
It wasn’t uncommon to see people enjoying the mountain scenery, particularly artistic students. Groups of three to five sat together, writing poems and painting.
Suddenly, Guoguo pointed and shouted, “Little Uncle!”
Zhou Ying turned to see Gu Chenglin sketching on a stone bench with some cla.s.smates.
“We’ll see your uncle later. He seems busy right now,” Zhou Ying explained to Guoguo.
Though slightly disappointed, Guoguo followed along toward the peach blossoms.
Gu Chenglin and his cla.s.smates glanced up curiously, noticing Guoguo. He exchanged a few polite words with his companions before hurrying after her.
“Greetings, Princess Mingyu,” Gu Chenglin said upon reaching them.
Mingyu gestured for him to rise. “Get up, you’re welcome.”
“Thank you, Princess.” He then turned to Zhou Ying. “Sister-in-law, Guoguo, when did you arrive?”
“Just now. How about you?”
“We came early this morning, not for leisure but for schoolwork a.s.signed by the princ.i.p.al. We each have to create a poem or painting upon returning.”
“I see. Well, you should continue working then. If you’re not in a rush to return, you can stay another day and return with us tomorrow.”
“Unfortunately, the princ.i.p.al expects us back tonight. Maybe we can meet another time.”
“Of course. It is still chilly, so bundle up for your return trip.”
“Thank you, sister-in-law. Enjoy your walk. I should head back now.” Gu Chenglin turned to leave.
He then looked at Guoguo. “Would you like to join us and see us draw?”
Guoguo’s eyes sparkled as she looked at Zhou Ying.
With a nod, Zhou Ying agreed, “Sure, but you have to be on your best behavior and not cause any trouble for Uncle, alright?”
“Yes, Mommy. Guoguo will definitely listen to Uncle,” she promised, nodding repeatedly.
“Wait here with the guards,” Zhou Ying instructed, pointing to the two guards. “We’ll meet up when we come back.”
The guards acknowledged this and promptly fell back from the group.
Mingyu watched Guoguo skip away. “They say girls love flowers,” she remarked with a smile. “But your Guoguo doesn’t seem particularly interested in the peach blossoms.”
“The novelty has worn off,” Zhou Ying explained. “We saw the peach blossoms at the manor two days ago, and she even helped pick many of them.”
“To make rouge?”
“Yes, and also peach blossom tea. It’s said to aid weight loss, improve digestion, and clear blemishes. It’s especially beneficial for those with poor circulation but slightly toxic, so moderation is key. People with sensitive stomachs should avoid it altogether.”
“Do peach blossoms have such health benefits? That’s fascinating! I want to pick some later.”
“Absolutely. Look for the flower buds. Once picked, steam them three times and dry them thoroughly before brewing them as tea..”