Entertainment from Divorce

Danjiangkou was gently shrouded in a thin mist in the early morning. Tan Yue and Chen Ziyu stood on the Danjiang Dam viewing platform, watching the sunrise turn the river surface golden.

Last night's sudden downpour seemed to have washed away the dust from the world, and the air was filled with the moist fragrance of earth, making people feel refreshed.

Chen Ziyu, wearing a light blue dress with a few drops of water still clinging to her hair, excitedly pointed into the distance and said, "A-Yue, look! The sunlight shining on the water looks like a river of scattered gold!"

Tan Yue smiled, took out his camera from his backpack, and captured the beautiful scenery in front of him along with Chen Ziyu's radiant smile.

The two walked slowly along the dam, feeling the awe-inspiring power of this magnificent project.

As Tan Yue walked, he explained the history and function of the dam to Chen Ziyu, who listened intently and occasionally asked a few naive questions.

Before they knew it, the sun had risen high in the sky, and the two enjoyed a hearty lunch at a restaurant near the dam.

The Danjiang fish, a local specialty, was fresh and delicious, earning them high praise.

After lunch and a short rest, they embarked on their road trip to Xiangshi.

Tan Yue skillfully started the car; the navigation system indicated the journey would take about two hours.

Along the way, with the car windows half-open and a gentle breeze blowing, the scenery along the roadside kept changing, with fields, villages, and hills forming a beautiful pastoral picture.

Chen Ziyu leaned against the car window, listening to soothing music from the car stereo, and occasionally chatting with Tan Yue, feeling extremely comfortable.

As the car entered Xiangyang City, the sun was slowly setting, and the sky was dyed a magnificent orange-red.

Following her pre-prepared plan, Tan Yue parked her car in a parking lot close to the night market.

After getting off the car, the two strolled along the streets of Xiangshi, experiencing the unique charm of this historical and cultural city.

The ancient city walls and modern buildings complement each other, and the shops along the street exude an enticing aroma, making people eager to immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere.

As dusk fell, the night market in Xiangyang gradually came alive.

The place was brightly lit, bustling with people, and filled with the enticing aromas of various delicacies.

Tan Yue and Chen Ziyu walked hand in hand through the bustling crowd, deeply attracted by the scene before them.

The first thing that catches the eye is a row of barbecue stalls, with sizzling meat skewers on the grills, emitting a fragrant aroma.

The vendor skillfully flipped the meat skewers and sprinkled them with various seasonings, attracting passersby to stop and watch.

Chen Ziyu's mouth watered, and he pulled Tan Yue over. "Boss, ten lamb skewers and ten beef skewers, please!" Chen Ziyu shouted.

The stall owner smiled and agreed, and soon the fragrant skewers were handed to them.

Chen Ziyu couldn't wait to take a bite of the lamb skewer. It was tender and juicy, with just the right amount of cumin and chili. She squinted her eyes in satisfaction and said, "It's so delicious! A-Yue, you should try some!" Tan Yue also picked up a skewer, savored it, and nodded in approval.

Continuing on, they came across a stall selling Xiangshi beef noodles, a local specialty of Xiangshi.

The reddish-brown beef, the chewy noodles, the rich broth, and the scallions and cilantro sprinkled on top—it looked incredibly appetizing. Tan Yue and Chen Ziyu decided to sit down and try this long-renowned delicacy.

Pick up the bowl, first take a sip of the fragrant broth, then eat a bite of the smooth noodles and tender beef. The flavor is rich and unforgettable.

After having eaten and drunk their fill, the two continued to stroll around the night market.

A roadside stall selling accessories caught Chen Ziyu's eye. She squatted down and carefully selected various exquisite hair accessories and bracelets.

Tan Yue stood to the side, smiling as he watched her, occasionally offering some advice.

In the end, Chen Ziyu chose an exquisite bracelet adorned with tiny bells that made a clear and melodious sound when shaken gently.

They then arrived at a stall selling traditional sugar paintings.

The master craftsman skillfully scooped up a spoonful of melted sugar syrup and quickly sketched a pattern on the stone slab. In no time, a lifelike butterfly appeared before our eyes.

Chen Ziyu was mesmerized and excitedly exclaimed like a child, "I want this! I want this!" The master craftsman smiled and handed her the sugar painting, carefully inserting a bamboo skewer into it.

The night market not only offers delicious food and trinkets, but also various street performances.

They stopped to watch a wonderful magic show. The magician's amazing skills amazed Chen Ziyu, who exclaimed in surprise from time to time.

There were also street performers playing and singing nearby, their melodious voices echoing in the night sky, adding a romantic atmosphere to the bustling night market.

Tan Yue and Chen Ziyu found a bench in a corner and sat down, quietly appreciating everything around them.

Chen Ziyu leaned on Tan Yue's shoulder and whispered, "I'm so happy today, and the snacks were delicious too."

Tan Yue gently took her hand and said, "As long as you're happy. We'll go to more places and see more scenery in the future."

As night deepened, the crowds at the night market continued to throng.

Tan Yue and Chen Ziyu got up and strolled along the lively street once again.

They also sampled some local delicacies, such as crispy fried lotus root cakes and sweet osmanthus cakes.

Each dish is like opening a door to the culinary world of Xiangshi, captivating them within its charm.

Reaching the end of the night market, the two were still reluctant to leave.

Chen Ziyu looked back at the brightly lit night market and said with some reluctance, "I really don't want to leave. I feel like there's still so much I haven't seen enough of." Tan Yue smiled and said, "It's okay, we'll come back another time. Now, let's go back to the hotel to rest, and we'll continue exploring other beautiful sights in Xiangshi tomorrow."

The two held hands and walked towards the parking lot.

At night, Xiangyang is brightly lit, and the neon lights on the streets cast long, long shadows of the people there.

Back in the car, Tan Yue started the engine and slowly drove out of the parking lot.

On the way, Chen Ziyu was still reminiscing about the delicious food and interesting things she had seen and heard at the night market, excitedly sharing her feelings with Tan Yue.

It was already late at night when the car stopped in front of the hotel.

Tan Yue and Chen Ziyu got out of the car, went into the hotel, checked in, and went to their room.

The room was warm and comfortable, and through the window, you could see the beautiful night view of Xiangshi.

Chen Ziyu sat by the window, looking at the lights outside, and said with emotion, "Today was a truly fulfilling and wonderful day. The magnificence of the Danjiangkou Dam and the liveliness of the night market are unforgettable."

Tan Yue walked to her side and gently put his arm around her shoulder: "There will be many more days like this in the future, so get some rest. We're going to visit the ancient Longzhong tomorrow."

Chen Ziyu nodded and got up to wash up.

After washing up, she lay in bed and quickly fell asleep, a sweet smile on her lips, as if she had returned to the bustling night market in her dream.

Tan Yue looked at her sleeping soundly, gently tucked her in, and lay down to rest as well, looking forward to tomorrow's new journey.

Even in this quiet night, the lights of Xiang City still twinkle.

...the next day.

The morning light filtered through the hotel's sheer curtains, gently illuminating Chen Ziyu's face and waking her from her sweet dreams.

She rubbed her sleepy eyes, turned to look at Tan Yue who was still fast asleep, and unconsciously smiled. She gently nudged him and said, "A-Yue, it's time to get up. We're going to Gulongzhong today!"

Tan Yue slowly opened his eyes and saw Chen Ziyu's expectant look. He instantly woke up and replied with a smile, "Okay, I'll get up right away." The two quickly washed up and enjoyed a hearty breakfast at the hotel before driving to Gulongzhong.

Along the way, Chen Ziyu excitedly scrolled through the information about Gulongzhong on her phone, occasionally sharing a few words with Tan Yue. "A-Yue, did you know? Gulongzhong is where Zhuge Liang (the strategist) cultivated the land, and the story of 'Three Visits to the Thatched Cottage' also took place here!" Her eyes were full of curiosity and longing, as if she couldn't wait to step into that land full of historical charm.

As the car traveled along the winding mountain road, it was surrounded by green mountains and shady trees on both sides. The fresh air rushed in through the car window, making people feel refreshed.

About an hour later, they arrived at the Gulongzhong Scenic Area.

As soon as you get off the bus, the simple and elegant archway comes into view. The three large characters "Ancient Longzhong" are vigorous and powerful, as if telling the story of the long history of this place.

Tan Yue and Chen Ziyu walked slowly along the stone path and first arrived at the Wuhou Temple.

Red walls and gray tiles, flying eaves and brackets, solemn and dignified.

The temple displays many cultural relics and historical materials related to Zhuge Liang. As they toured the temple, they listened to the guide's explanations.

Chen Ziyu carefully examined each exhibit, occasionally asking questions, while Tan Yue patiently answered them. The two were immersed in admiration for Zhuge Liang's wisdom and strategy.

After leaving the Wuhou Temple, they arrived at the thatched cottage.

With its thatched roof, wooden fence, and surrounding bamboo groves, the babbling brook creates a picturesque rural scene.

Chen Ziyu couldn't help but sigh, "It's hard to imagine that Mr. Wolong could live in seclusion in such a quiet place, yet he was able to have such a thorough understanding of the world's situation."

Tan Yue smiled and said, "This is the realm of 'minor hermits hide in the wilderness, major hermits hide in the city.'"

They strolled along the quiet paths of Gulongzhong, feeling the weight of history.

Wildflowers bloom in profusion along the roadside, and butterflies flutter among them, adding a touch of vibrancy to this rustic scene.

Unbeknownst to them, they arrived at the hexagonal well.

Legend has it that this was the well where Mr. Wolong lived in Longzhong. The wellhead is hexagonal and the water is crystal clear.

Chen Ziyu curiously leaned down to look, as if he could see the figure of Mr. Wolong drawing water here a thousand years ago.

In Gulongzhong, they also visited attractions such as Baoxi Pavilion and Liangfu Rock, each of which contains rich historical stories and cultural connotations.

Time slipped by unnoticed, and before we knew it, it was almost noon.

The two dined at a restaurant within the scenic area, enjoying local delicacies. Xiangshi rice wine paired with beef noodles offered a unique flavor.

After lunch and a short rest, Tan Yue and Chen Ziyu set off for Xiangshui River.

Xiangshui River is about a two-hour drive from Gulongzhong. Along the way, Chen Ziyu was a little tired and took a short nap in her seat.

Tan Yue focused on driving, glancing at her every now and then with tenderness in his eyes.

As the car entered the vicinity of the Xiangshui River scenic area, Chen Ziyu was captivated by the scenery outside the window and was wide awake.

The distant mountains stretch endlessly, shrouded in mist, resembling a fairyland.

After entering the scenic area, they walked along the winding path, with the sound of flowing water in their ears.

Before long, a magnificent waterfall appeared before our eyes; this is the famous Seven-Colored Waterfall of the Fragrant River.

Before long, a magnificent waterfall appeared before our eyes; this is the famous Seven-Colored Waterfall of the Fragrant River.

Sunlight shines through the mist, refracting into a magnificent rainbow that complements the pristine white waterfall, creating a breathtakingly beautiful scene.

Chen Ziyu excitedly took out her camera and kept taking pictures, wanting to capture this beautiful scenery forever.

They continued along the mountain path, where waterfalls of all sizes were scattered in a well-organized manner, some of them as powerful as ten thousand horses galloping.
Some are gentle and graceful, like white ribbons hanging in the air.

Each waterfall has a beautiful name: Three-Tiered Waterfall, Eagle Waterfall, Phoenix Tail Waterfall... Each has its own unique characteristics, making it a feast for the eyes.

The water of the Xiangshui River is crystal clear, shimmering in the sunlight.

Chen Ziyu couldn't resist taking off her shoes and walking into the water. Feeling the cool stream flowing over her feet, she laughed happily, like a child.

Tan Yue stood guard beside her, reminding her to be careful from time to time.

Following the stream, they came to a dense forest.

The trees are tall and straight, blocking out the sun. Sunlight filters through the gaps in the leaves, creating patches of golden light.

The forest was filled with the fresh scent of grass and trees, and unknown birds sang merrily in the branches.

Chen Ziyu took a deep breath and said, "The air here is so fresh, it feels like my whole being has been purified."

In the Xiangshui River, they also discovered a mysterious cave.

The stalactites and stalagmites inside the cave are of various shapes and colors under the lights, making it look like a dream world.

They carefully explored the cave, appreciating the wonders of nature.

Before we knew it, the sun was setting, and the sky was dyed orange-red.

Tan Yue and Chen Ziyu reluctantly left Xiangshui River.

On the way back, Chen Ziyu leaned on Tan Yue's shoulder and said with emotion, "Today was so wonderful. The history and culture of Gulongzhong and the natural scenery of Xiangshui River have broadened my horizons." Tan Yue held her hand and said, "We will go to more and more beautiful places in the future and create more wonderful memories."

As night falls, the city lights gradually come on.

Tan Yue and Chen Ziyu returned to the hotel, exhausted but satisfied.

They reminisced about the day's events and looked forward to a new journey tomorrow.

……

In the early morning, Xiangshi was shrouded in a thin layer of mist, and sunlight pierced through the clouds, casting dappled light and shadow on the streets.

Tan Yue and Chen Ziyu opened the hotel window, and the fresh air, carrying the lively aroma of breakfast stalls in the distance, rushed towards them.

Chen Ziyu stretched and turned to look at Tan Yue, who was packing his backpack: "We're going to Hancheng and Chunqiu Village today, I'm so excited! I heard Hancheng is full of ancient-style buildings, it'll be amazing for taking pictures!"

Tan Yue smiled and stuffed the camera into the side pocket of his backpack: "Then you'd better bring a few more outfits, we're going to be 'time travelers' today."

After a quick breakfast, the two drove towards the Seoul Scenic Area. (End of Chapter)