The next morning, after breakfast, Zhou Yi, Jian Shuyue, and Tian Tian first took in the magnificent scenery of Spirit Lake, its shimmering blue waters stretching as far as the eye could see, then visited the bustling True Buddha Temple.
On an ancient tree that towered overhead, its branches thick with leaves, the three hung the prayer pouches they had each prepared.
Director Zhou had written, "May I win two hearts and never part, even when our hair turns white!"
Lawyer Jian had written, "Joy shared with 'others' is better than joy enjoyed alone!"
Reporter Tian had written, "With three together, what could be more delightful!"
By day, they toured the sights and sampled local specialties. At night, they went home to exchange their experiences.
When Zhou Yi and Jian Shuyue were talking, Tian Tian never joined in, remaining a quiet observer. Only after the two finished did she share some private words with Jian Shuyue.
They were all young and full of energy. Rather than tiring them out, all this activity was something they never seemed to get enough of.
Milky Way Villa, Ganquan City.
Vice Mayor Xie Chenglin showed a rare display of deference, personally pouring a cup of hot tea for the middle-aged man before him, then sitting primly to one side.
The middle-aged man was handsome and refined. On closer inspection, his features bore some resemblance to Xie Chenglin's.
He held two posts: chairman of the Standing Committee of the Capital City People's Congress and secretary of its Party leadership group, and head of the Sixth Central Inspection Group stationed in Jiangnan Province.
He was also Xie Chenglin's second uncle.
"Have you settled into working in Changtian?" Xie Zheng asked kindly.
"Fairly well, though I've been in office for four months and still haven't really