Outside the city · Xinping Temple
The Daoist temple bestowed upon Princess Xinping looked magnificent even from afar. Once inside, its surroundings—more like a princess's private residence than an ordinary Daoist temple—made even Zhou Yao sigh in admiration.
She was a princess, after all. Even after entering the Daoist Sect and becoming a Daoist nun, she did not lack for comforts.
"Miss Zhou, this way, please." The maid leading the way was also dressed as a Daoist nun, but her voice was gentle and her footsteps light. Every word and gesture followed strict etiquette. Apart from her clothing and adornments, she was no different from a maid at Princess Manor.
Zhou Yao quietly followed her inward. After passing through the main hall and walking some distance along a corridor, she arrived at a courtyard and finally met the person she had come to see.
Princess Xinping's raven hair was gathered high and secured atop her head with a white jade ornament, several strands hanging beside her cheeks. Her fair neck appeared all the more slender from having her hair bound up. Her flowing Daoist robe traced the graceful curves of her body. From more than ten paces away, she looked like a bird with an elegant neck.
But when the princess, who had been pruning flower branches, straightened and looked toward her, her eyes, brilliant as the morning sun, washed away that detached air of one beyond the mortal world. In an instant, she became once more a splendid, noble begonia blossom.
"Zhou Yao pays her respects to Your Highness." Zhou Yao stepped forward and curtsied gracefully.
Princess Xinping said casually, "Rise."
"Ah, it truly was difficult for you to come see me. Other than you, no one else has come."
Standing amid the flowers, Princess Xinping truly embodied the