Chapter 67 Lake Tour
Chapter 67 Lake Tour
On the other side, Qin Yaoyao walked out of the general's mansion and immediately saw that familiar figure. He Yanxi stood there with his back straight, backlit, like an immortal descended to earth.
Qin Yaoyao was stunned until He Yanxi walked towards her and called her name, which brought her back to her senses.
Qin Yaoyao quickly stepped forward, hugged He Yanxi's arm tightly, and said in a coquettish tone, "Brother Yanxi, why are you here?"
He Yanxi affectionately patted Qin Yaoyao's head and gently replied, "Of course I came to see my little darling."
Hearing this, Qin Yaoyao felt a surge of joy, her face beaming with happiness. He Yanxi looked at Qin Yaoyao and said, "I went to the Duke's Mansion to look for you, but they said you came to the General's Mansion. I thought I wouldn't make you run around, so I came here to wait for you." After hearing this, Qin Yaoyao smiled sweetly and said happily, "My brother Yanxi is the best!" Her voice was full of joy and gratitude.
He Yanxi smiled and replied, "Of course, I don't want to see you exhausted." His eyes revealed his care and affection for Qin Yaoyao. Then, he gently patted Qin Yaoyao's shoulder and said tenderly, "Let's go!"
Qin Yaoyao nodded obediently in agreement. The two walked together to the lakeside, enjoying the beautiful time. Their steps were light and cheerful, as if everything around them had become beautiful.
Along the way, He Yanxi and Qin Yaoyao chatted, sharing their feelings and experiences. Their conversation was warm and humorous, revealing the deep affection between them.
As they reached the lake, the water shimmered, and a gentle breeze rippled across its surface. He Yanxi stopped, quietly admiring the scenery and appreciating the beauty of nature.
Qin Yaoyao stood beside him, her gaze fixed on the distance, seemingly immersed in the tranquil atmosphere. She sighed softly, then turned to look at He Yanxi, her eyes sparkling with happiness. Before long, the two arrived at Lanxin Lake. Located in the city center, Lanxin Lake boasted crystal-clear waters and was surrounded by lush greenery, a picturesque scene.
The lakeside is dotted with numerous restaurants, each with its own unique style and characteristics. Lanxi Restaurant is the most famous among them, renowned for its exquisite fish dishes. This restaurant is not only expensive but also very individualistic—it's not open all the time, but only during specific time slots. Furthermore, regardless of who you are, you must abide by the rules: if you want to dine here, you must first queue; the number of guests served each time slot is limited, and if it's full, even the wealthiest and most influential person will have to wait for the next opportunity. Therefore, making a reservation in advance is essential to experiencing the delicious cuisine of Lanxi Restaurant.
"Let's go boating on the lake first, and then have dinner at Lanxi Restaurant when we get back," He Yanxi said, turning to Qin Yaoyao. She nodded, indicating her agreement.
Numerous boats are neatly arranged along the lake shore, available for rent to visitors. These boats fall into two categories: "Fine Boats" and "Luxury Boats." While relatively expensive, these are not the most costly option. Renting a fine boat costs five hundred taels of silver, with food, drinks, and other supplies charged separately. Generally, those with some social standing or financial means can afford to rent these boats. These are the most numerous and the choice of most people. The other category consists of "Luxury Boats," which, as their name suggests, are extremely luxurious. They boast spacious interiors and are equipped with all sorts of fine items. However, the corresponding rental fee is also quite high, costing ten thousand taels of silver per day. However, there are only ten of these luxury boats.
The boat rental options here are flexible, allowing for monthly or yearly charters. Naturally, chartering a boat is more expensive than regular rentals. For example, a luxury boat costs 500,000 taels of silver for a monthly charter, 5 million taels for a six-month charter, and a whopping 30 million taels for a year. Therefore, most people prefer to charter for only one month. Similarly, for boutique boats, chartering for one month costs 3,000 taels of silver, six months costs 20,000 taels, and a year costs 50,000 taels. Comparatively, more people choose to charter boutique boats. There is one very special boat here; it is not only the most luxurious of all the boats but also a private vessel, not available for rent. He Yanxi boarded this boat without hesitation, bringing Qin Yaoyao with him.
Qin Yaoyao gripped He Yanxi's hand tightly, saying with some worry, "Brother Yanxi, this boat is indeed very nice, but isn't it inappropriate for us to board without permission? Perhaps we should rent one instead?" He Yanxi smiled and replied, "Does Yaoyao like this boat?" Qin Yaoyao nodded vigorously, indicating that she liked it very much. However, before she could finish speaking, He Yanxi interrupted her with a smile, "As long as Yaoyao likes it, that's fine. After all, this boat was specially crafted for Yaoyao." Hearing this, Qin Yaoyao was quite surprised. Her eyes widened, and she stammered, "This...this boat...is it Brother Yanxi's?" He Yanxi nodded affirmatively. Qin Yaoyao pressed further, "Was it made especially for me?" He Yanxi nodded again. Qin Yaoyao still couldn't believe it and continued to ask, "Did Brother Yanxi make it himself?" He Yanxi nodded again.
Qin Yaoyao's eyes instantly brightened. She excitedly hugged He Yanxi, bouncing around like a little bird. Her face beamed with a radiant smile, and she danced with joy, as if she had received the most wonderful gift in the world. Seeing Qin Yaoyao so excited and happy, He Yanxi couldn't help but smile and softly asked, "Are you that happy?"
Qin Yaoyao nodded happily, her eyes sparkling. She replied with a smile, "Of course! This boat is so beautiful. Now it belongs to me. It was a gift from Brother Yanxi. This is just wonderful!" Her voice was full of joy, and you could feel the happiness deep in her heart.
Looking at the innocent and joyful Qin Yaoyao before him, He Yanxi felt a surge of pleasure. He took Qin Yaoyao's small hand and said gently, "Alright, let's go inside and take a look together." Qin Yaoyao nodded vigorously, her eyes full of anticipation, and then the two of them walked into the cabin together.
Upon entering the cabin, Qin Yaoyao was immediately captivated by its warm and elegant ambiance. The entire cabin exuded a tranquil and comfortable atmosphere, as welcoming as home. Every piece of furniture and decoration was of top quality, even the carpet was made of the finest animal hides. They sat on the soft cushions, savoring the luxury and comfort.
Qin Yaoyao gazed out the window at the scenery. The lake, like a mirror, reflected the white clouds and blue sky. A gentle breeze blew, and the lotus leaves swayed softly, like a group of elegant dancers performing. Water birds frolicked on the water, their feathers shimmering with vibrant colors in the sunlight. The lakeside meadow was covered with a green carpet, dotted with colorful flowers, like a beautiful painting.
The distant, undulating mountains, reflected in the lake, create a beautiful landscape. The trees on the mountains are lush and verdant, resembling a green ocean. At the foot of the mountains, a clear stream flows gently, its waters crashing against the rocks with a crisp, melodious sound.
Qin Yaoyao quietly admired the beautiful scenery, feeling exceptionally relaxed. She felt as if she were in a dreamlike world, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the world. She took a deep breath of the fresh air, feeling the breath of nature, allowing her soul to be cleansed.
He Yanxi gently stroked Qin Yaoyao's hair, his eyes filled with affection. He knew that as long as he could see Qin Yaoyao happy, all his efforts would be worthwhile. He wanted to create more beautiful memories for her, so that she could forever retain that innocence and joy.
In the early morning, a misty haze hangs in the air, and sunlight spills across the lake, as if veiling the world in a light gauze, creating a dreamlike scene. The beauty of the lakeside is like a painting, captivating and enchanting, leaving one feeling refreshed and reluctant to leave.
Qin Yaoyao sat at the bow of the boat, gazing at the beautiful scenery before her, her heart filled with joy. She murmured, "It's wonderful to be able to drink tea and eat snacks with someone I love, enjoying such beautiful scenery. It's truly delightful!" He Yanxi smiled at Qin Yaoyao, his eyes full of affection. He gently picked up the teapot and poured her another cup of tea.
Qin Yaoyao took the teacup, sipped the hot tea, and felt the warm aroma spreading in her mouth. Suddenly remembering something, she looked up at He Yanxi and asked cautiously, "Brother Yanxi, can I bring Sister Ying with me next time?" He Yanxi smiled and nodded, replying gently, "Of course you can. This ship is yours; you can let whoever you want come."
Hearing He Yanxi's words, Qin Yaoyao was overjoyed and immediately hugged him, saying happily, "Brother Yanxi is the best!" She then couldn't help but gently kiss He Yanxi's cheek. Originally, Qin Yaoyao only wanted to express her joy, but this gesture seemed to ignite a flame deep within He Yanxi's heart.
Just as Qin Yaoyao was about to pull away from He Yanxi's embrace, she was unexpectedly pulled back. Before she could even speak, her lips were sealed by his. Qin Yaoyao felt a little shy after realizing what was happening, but she couldn't help but respond to He Yanxi's passion. Sensing Qin Yaoyao's response, He Yanxi's kisses became even more ardent, as if he wanted to transfer all his passion to her. He kissed Qin Yaoyao as he carried her towards the bed. Qin Yaoyao's body gradually softened, responding to He Yanxi's movements. Their breaths mingled, and their heartbeats were clearly audible. They forgot all their worries and anxieties, leaving only their longing and love for each other.
As time passed, their passion gradually subsided. They lay tightly embraced on the bed, feeling each other's warmth. Their eyes met, filled with happiness and contentment. Perhaps because they were on a ship, they drifted off to sleep, their arms still clasped tightly together, as if afraid of losing each other. Their breathing was steady and peaceful, like the most beautiful melody playing in the cozy cabin. Sunlight streamed through the window, illuminating their faces and bathing their skin in a golden glow. Strands of their hair gently brushed against each other's cheeks, bringing a ticklish sensation and drawing their hearts even closer.
When they woke up, it was already noon. They slowly opened their eyes, looked at each other's faces, and their lips unconsciously curved into a smile. He Yanxi gently stroked Qin Yaoyao's hair and softly asked, "Did you sleep well?" Qin Yaoyao nodded, her face beaming with a happy smile. They got up together, tidied their clothes, and then went out of the cabin. He Yanxi took Qin Yaoyao's hand and walked to the bow of the ship, enjoying the gentle breeze on their faces. They gazed into the distance, feeling the beauty of nature, their hearts filled with anticipation for the future.
Afterwards, He Yanxi had the boat rowed back to shore. Once ashore, He Yanxi took Qin Yaoyao's hand and said gently, "Are you hungry? Come on, I'll take you to eat something delicious." Qin Yaoyao nodded, her face showing anticipation. He Yanxi smiled and led her into a restaurant.
As soon as they entered the restaurant, the manager greeted them respectfully, saying, "Please come upstairs." He led He Yanxi and Qin Yaoyao up the stairs to the third floor. He Yanxi said to the manager, "I can go by myself! The food can be served now." The manager quickly replied, "Alright, Your Highness, please wait a moment, I'll be right there." After saying that, he turned and left, leaving He Yanxi and Qin Yaoyao in the room.
He Yanxi led Qin Yaoyao straight into the private room. Once inside, he expertly sat down at the table and poured her a cup of tea. Qin Yaoyao, however, didn't sit down immediately. Instead, she curiously wandered around the room, looking everything around. This room was located on the third floor, and it was the only room on the entire third floor. This room was further divided into several smaller rooms, including a study, a music room, a chess room, a bedroom, a bathroom, a reception room, a tea room, and a dining room. They were currently in the dining room.
Qin Yaoyao looked around excitedly, her eyes sparkling, and exclaimed repeatedly, "Brother Yanxi, the owner of this place must be incredibly wealthy! Look at all these things, each one is a priceless treasure!" As she spoke, she gently stroked the precious items with her fingers, her face full of amazement. Then, she turned to He Yanxi, looking at him expectantly, and asked, "Brother Yanxi, are you good friends with the owner of this place?"
He Yanxi raised an eyebrow, looking at Qin Yaoyao with a half-smile, and asked, "Oh? Why do you ask that?" Qin Yaoyao replied matter-of-factly, "Because I heard that the third floor belongs only to the owner of this shop and is never open to the public. But not only were you able to enter, but the manager treated you with such respect, a treatment even princes don't receive. So, I think your relationship with their owner must be extraordinary." Qin Yaoyao said as she walked.
He Yanxi's lips curled up slightly, revealing a smile: "Does one have to be a friend to come up here? Can't I be the owner of this place?" His voice carried a hint of teasing and mockery.
Qin Yaoyao was taken aback at first, then laughed along: "You're from here..." Before she could finish her sentence, she suddenly realized what He Yanxi had just said, turned around abruptly, walked quickly to the table, opened her mouth wide in surprise, and stammered, "Brother Yanxi, what did you just say? This restaurant is yours?" She stared at He Yanxi with wide eyes, unable to believe her eyes.
Looking at the shocked Qin Yaoyao, He Yanxi found it quite amusing. He couldn't help but chuckle and nodded, answering confidently, "That's right. Not only is this restaurant mine, but this lake is also mine. Otherwise, how would I have so much money to open this restaurant?" His tone was relaxed and natural, but every word he said shocked Qin Yaoyao.
Qin Yaoyao stared wide-eyed, speechless for a long time, her face filled with astonishment. She had never imagined that this beautiful lake belonged to He Yanxi, and that he was also the owner of this luxurious restaurant. This fact surprised her immensely, and at the same time, it aroused a deeper curiosity and respect for He Yanxi.
Just then, the innkeeper knocked and came in to serve the dishes. Soon, all the dishes were served, all of which were Qin Yaoyao's favorites. He Yanxi, seeing that Qin Yaoyao was still somewhat dazed, gently tapped her head and said, "Snap out of it, eat quickly." Qin Yaoyao then came to her senses and said while eating, "I definitely won't be surprised anymore." He Yanxi asked curiously, "Why?" Qin Yaoyao said, "Because brother is amazing, so nothing amazing is surprising to him. Hehe." He Yanxi said indulgently, "Eat up!" He then placed the deboned fish meat in front of Qin Yaoyao. Qin Yaoyao was overjoyed.
She thought to herself with delight, "Having such a doting brother like Yanxi is so wonderful!" Qin Yaoyao picked up a piece of fish, put it in her mouth, and savored the delicious dish. While eating, she said to He Yanxi, "Brother, this fish is so delicious, I want more." He Yanxi smiled and put some more on her plate, then said gently, "Eat more, don't go hungry." The two chatted happily as they ate.
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