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墨書 Inktalez
At the hour of the dog, the sun had completely set.
At this moment, the moon hung low among the willow branches, and the stars twinkled in the sky.
The summer night was as enchanting as a beautiful maiden's face, playful yet slightly alluring, creating ripples of charm!
However, beneath this bright moonlight, the area around West Lake was bustling with activity.
Along the banks of West Lake, a long street was lined with numerous stalls.
These stalls offered a variety of treats: some sold sweet soups, others grilled skewers, and some served stir-fried dishes...
The assortment was so diverse that it dazzled the eyes.
Moreover, upon arriving here, the mouthwatering aromas wafting through the air made everyone's stomachs growl with hunger.
As a servant, Le Yao Yao naturally took on the role of a laborer at this moment, going to buy delicious food for everyone. Once they boarded the painted boat, they could enjoy the beautiful scenery while savoring tasty snacks.
However, when Dongfang Bai saw this, she immediately joined Le Yao Yao to help buy food for everyone. In the end, even the usually dignified Seventh Prince eagerly took on the role of a laborer for a while, personally selecting some tasty treats.
Le Yao Yao suspected that he simply wanted to choose some good snacks for himself.
At this moment, Le Yao Yao, Dongfang Bai, and Nangong Junxi walked ahead to buy some delicious food while Leng Junyu and Nian Sulan leisurely followed behind them.
Along the way, Nian Sulan showed great interest in everything she saw and chattered endlessly. However, Leng Junyu's responses were limited to simple words like "Hmm," "Oh," and "Is that so?"
Despite this, it did not dampen Nian Sulan's cheerful mood at all.
After all, being able to stroll around like an ordinary couple with her beloved Cousin Yu was something she had longed for.
Although there were three others accompanying them, it didn't matter. Since she had waited so long for Cousin Yu, she didn't mind waiting a little longer.
Behind them, Leng Junyu was chatting endlessly while Nian Sulan remained silent and distant, creating a rather strange scene.
In contrast, the three in front—Le Yao Yao and her companions—were completely different.
"Wow, it smells amazing! It looks so delicious!"
At that moment, Le Yao Yao had stopped at a barbecue stall, staring at the skewers sizzling on the grill, nearly drooling.
Dongfang Bai, walking beside her, immediately smiled and said, "Since you like it, why not buy some more? We have plenty of people, so getting extra won't hurt."
As Dongfang Bai spoke, his gaze on Le Yao Yao softened with a hint of affection.
That look was as gentle as that of a lover. Unfortunately, Le Yao Yao was so focused on the barbecue that she completely missed it.
Upon hearing Dongfang Bai's suggestion, she wasted no time and pointed at the stall owner while saying, "Boss, please give us some grilled chives, chicken wings, lamb skewers, fish balls... let's have five of each!"
"Sure thing!"
Upon seeing a customer arrive, the little stall's Boss smiled broadly, his eyes nearly disappearing as he skillfully grilled the items that Le Yao Yao had just ordered.
At that moment, Nangong Junxi approached from the nearby stir-fry stall, carrying several boxes of specialty dishes.
Noticing Le Yao Yao standing in front of the barbecue stall, he asked her what she had bought.
Le Yao Yao replied honestly. After hearing her list, Nangong Junxi nodded in satisfaction and said, "Hmm, not bad. These are all things this prince loves to eat! It seems you are quite familiar with my tastes!"
With that, he playfully raised his eyebrows at Le Yao Yao, grinning teasingly.
In response to Nangong Junxi's words, Le Yao Yao rolled her eyes at him without hesitation and replied with exasperation, "These are all things everyone loves to eat, okay!?"
Honestly, it was as if he thought she was paying special attention to his preferences.
While Le Yao Yao grumbled internally about this, Nangong Junxi paid no mind to her words. Instead, he stood beside her with a cheeky smile.
Although it was nighttime, the area by West Lake was still bustling with people. He was concerned that the crowd might push against this petite figure in front of him, so he kindly positioned himself to shield her from unnecessary trouble.
Le Yao Yao was unaware of Nangong Junxi's consideration because her focus was entirely on the barbecue. The array of delicious-looking food and the enticing aromas wafting through the air made her swallow hard in anticipation.
It really looked delicious!
At that moment, the barbecue was just finished cooking. After Dongfang Bai paid, Le Yao Yao eagerly went to grab the skewers.
However, a long, elegant hand moved faster than hers.
"I'll get it."
"Hehe, thank you, Brother Bai."
Upon hearing Dongfang Bai's words, Le Yao Yao's beautiful eyes curved into a smile, revealing her bright teeth.
Perhaps it was because he knew her secret as a woman; today, Dongfang Bai was particularly gentlemanly and considerate towards her.
Le Yao Yao thoroughly enjoyed Dongfang Bai's attentiveness. She had long dreamed of having a Big Brother like him—someone who would pamper her, protect her, and be gentle and caring, making her feel as if she were basking in springtime warmth.
In response to Le Yao Yao's gratitude, Dongfang Bai merely smiled softly.
Meanwhile, Nangong Junxi, watching the exchange between Dongfang Bai and Le Yao Yao, felt a twinge of discomfort in his heart. He couldn't help but feel puzzled.
He knew that Bai was a kind-hearted person who treated everyone with such warmth and consideration, which earned him the affection of the people.
However, the way Bai treated Piglet seemed to be different somehow.
He couldn't quite pinpoint what was different, leaving him momentarily at a loss for words.
However, what puzzled him the most was this Piglet.
'He' showed utmost respect towards the Senior Brother, yet treated him as if they were sworn enemies from a past life. But with Bai, 'he' seemed to enjoy their time together.
It seemed that Bai truly had a great charm!
But thinking about this only deepened his frustration...
When would this Piglet treat him like he did Bai!?
Just as Nangong Junxi was mulling over these thoughts, a foul odor suddenly wafted through the air from a distance.
Upon catching a whiff of the stench, both Nangong Junxi and Dongfang Bai couldn't help but wrinkle their beautifully shaped brows.
Even Leng Junyu, who followed closely behind them, frowned in distaste.
Nian Sulan also couldn't resist covering her nose with a handkerchief, her expression filled with disgust.
In contrast to the others' disdainful looks, Le Yao Yao's eyes lit up upon smelling the odor, and she exclaimed in delight.
"It's Stinky Tofu!"
After saying that, Le Yao Yao immediately dashed towards the source of the smell like an arrow shot from a bow.
She ran eagerly, her nose occasionally sniffing the air, looking just like a greedy little puppy, which made everyone unable to help but chuckle.
However, everyone exchanged puzzled glances at Le Yao Yao's actions, expressing their confusion.
"Stinky Tofu? What is that?"
Upon hearing Le Yao Yao's exclamation, Nangong Junxi couldn't help but turn to Dongfang Bai beside him and ask.
In response to Nangong Junxi's question, Dongfang Bai merely shrugged his shoulders, equally perplexed.
He was inwardly wondering, Stinky Tofu? Isn't tofu supposed to smell good? How did it become stinky!?
Thinking of this, Dongfang Bai's gaze fell on Leng Junyu, as if silently inquiring.
However, Leng Junyu only pressed his red lips together tightly, remaining silent and confused. Yet, his steps were moving toward Le Yao Yao's direction.
In contrast to the confused crowd over there, Le Yao Yao had already found the Stinky Tofu she had longed for.
Previously, her favorite food, aside from spicy dishes, was Stinky Tofu.
There used to be a place near her school that sold Stinky Tofu. Every day after school, she would buy a portion to eat.
Even after years of eating it, she never grew tired of it.
Since arriving in this Celestial Yuan Dynasty, she thought there would be no Stinky Tofu available here!
As she inhaled the familiar scent, Le Yao Yao couldn't help but feel a wave of nostalgia mixed with excitement.
“Boss, I'll have an order of Stinky Tofu, please.”
“Sure thing, young man. Please wait a moment while I serve these customers first.”
“Alright, sounds good.”
Hearing the old man selling Stinky Tofu say this, Le Yao Yao nodded in agreement. After all, when she arrived here, there were already several people standing at the small stall selling Stinky Tofu, all eager to buy some.
It seemed that this Stinky Tofu was quite delicious, attracting many customers.
So, Le Yao Yao patiently stood aside and waited.
At that moment, Leng Junyu and his companions also approached, but they merely stood at a distance, showing no intention of joining her.
After all, they were all privileged individuals who had never indulged in such humble street food.
Seeing this, Le Yao Yao said nothing. Once her order of Stinky Tofu was ready, she had the Boss pack it up, paid for it, and then walked over to where Leng Junyu and the others were standing.
As she walked over, she raised the oil paper bag in her hand and smiled brightly like a blooming flower.
“Ha ha, alright! We can board the boat now.”
"Uh, I said, Piglet, what do you have in your hand? Why does it smell so bad?!"
Seeing Le Yao Yao approaching, Nangong Junxi immediately pinched his nose with one hand, furrowing his brow in confusion and disdain.
Upon hearing Nangong Junxi's sarcastic remark and seeing his face that looked as if he were about to be executed, Le Yao Yao couldn't help but smile slightly.
"This is the famous Stinky Tofu; don't tell me you've never tried it!"
"Uh, famous? It smells terrible!"
Nangong Junxi scoffed at Le Yao Yao's words.
Then, he quickly strode ahead, as if afraid that the foul odor would knock him out.
Le Yao Yao merely pouted at Nangong Junxi's actions, feeling somewhat speechless.
But she couldn't blame him! After all, some people love eating Stinky Tofu and think it smells delightful, while others can't stand the scent at all.
Her beautiful eyes scanned the surroundings before she discreetly tugged at the figure standing nearby—the Living Yama.
The Living Yama glanced briefly at the oil paper bag in her hand before quickly averting his gaze.
His cold face showed no expression whatsoever. Even his gaze was devoid of warmth.
Without saying a word, the Living Yama simply shot her a cold glance at the oil paper bag and then strode forward.
Nian Sulan naturally followed behind him.
In the end, only Dongfang Bai was left.
"Yao, brother, let's go!"
Perhaps realizing that Le Yao Yao was a woman, Dongfang Bai felt a bit awkward calling out to her now.
Le Yao Yao noticed this but said nothing. She simply smiled at Dongfang Bai, revealing her bright white teeth.
"Okay."
...
The West Lake at night was calm and tranquil, with no waves disturbing its surface. The mist hung lightly over the water, creating an endless expanse.
At this moment, the banks of West Lake were brightly lit and bustling with people, transforming the pitch-black night into something resembling daylight!
On the lake itself, several beautifully crafted boats glided across the water.
These boats were exquisitely made, adorned with rows of bright red lanterns. As the lights began to twinkle and night fell, they emitted a warm red glow.
The reflections of the red lanterns danced on the water's surface, creating shimmering waves that made the night even more enchanting.
Dongfang Bai had long arranged for Xiao Tang to reserve a boat, so when Leng Junyu and his companions arrived at the boat, the boat's owner immediately greeted them with a professional smile, warmly inviting them aboard.
Le Yao Yao naturally followed behind them.
After the Boat Boss led them onto the deck, he immediately had a lavish spread of food and drinks prepared before stepping back.
At that moment, Le Yao Yao quickly arranged the items she had just bought on the table.
Once Leng Junyu and the others took their seats, she obediently stood behind Leng Junyu.
After all, she was technically their servant and had never imagined sitting together with them, enjoying the beautiful scenery while eating.
Although she was starting to feel a bit hungry now.
The dishes on the table were so abundant that they made anyone's mouth water.
Her stomach couldn't help but rumble loudly.
However, Le Yao Yao bit her lip, swallowing her saliva as she planned to wait until they finished eating before taking her portion to enjoy slowly.
Unexpectedly, just as Le Yao Yao was lost in thought, a low and charming voice suddenly rang in her ear—
"It's rare for you to be out; there's no need to be so restrained. Sit down and eat!"
"Uh?"
Le Yao Yao was taken aback by the words of the living hell.
Beautiful Eyes widened in shock, her copper bell-like eyes reflecting disbelief at the words spoken by the living Yama.
In contrast to Le Yao Yao's astonishment, Nian Sulan, sitting beside Leng Junyu, also displayed a hint of surprise on her charming face upon hearing his words.
Her gaze quickly shifted to Le Yao Yao, who had been quietly attending to them.
However, Nian Sulan's surprise was fleeting; her expression soon returned to normal.
Moreover, she merely regarded Leng Junyu's kindness towards Le Yao Yao as a sign of his appreciation for a servant.
After all, she understood that although Leng Junyu was cold and taciturn, he treated his subordinates well.
Since Le Yao Yao was a favored servant of Leng Junyu, Nian Sulan's eyes sparkled for a moment before she turned to Le Yao Yao with a smile, her tone surprisingly warm.
"Little brother, you've been walking all day. Why don't you sit down and rest for a bit?"
"Uh, thank you."
Having snapped back to reality from her earlier shock, Le Yao Yao found herself unprepared for Nian Sulan's overly friendly smile.
After all, throughout the day, this young lady had clung to the living Yama's side, barely sparing her a glance. Now, suddenly being so warm towards her made Le Yao Yao feel somewhat uncomfortable.
However, she did not refuse the kindness offered. Despite being a servant, she had walked for such a long time and was not made of iron; naturally, she felt tired.
Besides, it wasn't the first time she had shared a meal with the living Yama and his companions. With that thought in mind, Le Yao Yao decided not to be polite any longer and found a spot to sit down.
At this moment, Le Yao Yao was seated with Dongfang Bai on her left and Nangong Junxi on her right. In front of her sat Leng Junyu and Nian Sulan.
A table for five, perfectly arranged.
The evening breeze blew gently, bringing with it the faint sounds of silk and bamboo music from a nearby boat.
Stars twinkled in the sky, and the bright moon hung high above. The pure moonlight fell softly like smoke or gauze upon the earth, shimmering on the lake's surface, creating a beautiful scene.
In such a delightful setting, sipping fragrant tea and enjoying delicious dishes, life felt truly joyful!
“Come on, Yao Brother, you must be hungry too. Have some food first.”
After Le Yao Yao sat down, Dongfang Bai immediately picked up his jade chopsticks and placed a piece of crispy chicken into Le Yao Yao's bowl.
Seeing this, Le Yao Yao turned to Dongfang Bai and smiled back at him.
“Thank you, Brother Bai.”
“Hehe, go ahead and eat.”
Dongfang Bai merely smiled at Le Yao Yao's radiant smile.
Hearing this, Le Yao Yao didn’t hold back and picked up her chopsticks to start eating.
However, just as she was enjoying the crispy chicken, Nian Sulan, sitting across from them, took in the scene of Dongfang Bai serving food to Le Yao Yao and immediately smiled lightly as she spoke.
"Haha, the bond between the Eastern Doctor and the little brother is really strong!"
"Uh."
Hearing Nian Sulan's words, Le Yao Yao merely looked up and smiled at her.
"Haha, yes, Brother Bai is a really nice person. He takes good care of me!"
Le Yao Yao spoke honestly.
Moreover, Le Yao Yao was the kind of person who would reciprocate kindness. So, since Dongfang Bai treated her well, she naturally remembered it.
However, after she finished speaking, Nangong Junxi beside her couldn't help but interject with a sour expression.
"You ungrateful person! Is it just Brother Bai who treats you well? Am I not good to you?!"
Listening to Le Yao Yao constantly praising Dongfang Bai made Nangong Junxi feel a pang of jealousy in his heart.
His words were laced with bitterness, yet he was completely unaware of it.
Le Yao Yao heard Nangong Junxi's words and merely pursed her lips, choosing not to respond.
After all, she could see how well Dongfang Bai treated her, but as for the Seventh Prince, aside from bullying her most of the time, she really couldn't see any kindness from him.
Le Yao Yao remained silent, merely focusing on eating to fill her stomach.
Seeing that Le Yao Yao was ignoring him, Nangong Junxi couldn't help but grit his teeth in frustration. In the end, he had no choice but to sit aside and drink his sorrows away.
On the other hand, Leng Junyu had not spoken a word from the beginning; he quietly sipped his drink.
With cold eyes lowered, his long eyelashes completely concealed the emotions in his gaze, making it impossible for anyone to discern his thoughts.
Nearby, Nian Sulan noticed that Leng Junyu was continuously drinking but hadn't touched any food. Her brows furrowed in concern, her worry evident on her face.
"Cousin Yu, drinking is harmful to your health. You can't just drink; you need to eat something to line your stomach! What will you do if you end up making yourself sick?"
To anyone with keen eyes, it was clear that she had feelings for Leng Junyu.
As for Leng Junyu, whether he was oblivious to Nian Sulan's affections or simply chose to ignore them, his handsome face remained cold and aloof.
He held a cup of clear liquor in his hand, seemingly unfazed by Nian Sulan's earnest advice as he intended to take another drink. However, Nian Sulan reached out her delicate white hand and stopped him.
"Cousin Yu, no more drinking! If you keep this up, I won't let you off easily..."
Her soft and sweet voice was so enticing that it felt like it could melt one's bones.
Seeing this, Leng Junyu remained silent, but Nangong Junxi couldn't help but tease from the side.
"Wow, Big Brother, your charm is truly remarkable! I'm so envious!"
Nangong Junxi's teasing only elicited a light press of Leng Junyu's lips, and his gaze soon fell upon the delicate hand that held his large one. His well-defined brows furrowed slightly.
Nian Sulan, however, was oblivious to Leng Junyu's expression.
As soon as she heard Nangong Junxi's words, she immediately feigned shyness, lowering her cheeks. Those exquisite cheeks quickly flushed a rosy red, making her resemble a budding red rose, so charming and alluring.
Such a stunning beauty would have sent any other man into a state of blissful delight.
Unfortunately, that did not apply to Leng Junyu.
Seeing Nian Sulan's bashful and enchanting demeanor, his handsome face remained unchanged, his expression utterly calm.
On the other hand, Le Yao Yao watched as Nian Sulan continued to hold Leng Junyu's hand without letting go. Her heart felt as if it were stuffed with a large piece of cotton, heavy and suffocating.
Even the delicious dishes before her suddenly lost their appeal… it was quite disheartening.
A layer of gloom slowly settled over her pretty little face. She didn't even realize the change within herself.
Beside her, Dongfang Bai noticed the shift. His previously cheerful smile faltered when he caught sight of Le Yao Yao's downcast expression. His gaze flickered toward her, thoughtful and contemplative.
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