The National Preceptor's Residence was built against a mountain. Rumor had it that the land had excellent feng shui and was especially nourishing to its inhabitants. More than half the mountain lay within his back garden.
There was a Cold Spring there whose waters were icy enough to chill one to the bone even on the hottest summer days. It was said to grant longevity and allow one to ascend to immortality in broad daylight.
Many coveted the place, but seeing that it belonged to the Imperial Preceptor, they dared not voice their resentment.
Xie Huizhou had no habit of climbing mountains, and he was reluctant to visit this back garden. Now, to find someone, he had to toil his way up the mountain.
Was this just what snakes were like? Always running off into the mountains.
After walking for a while, Xie Huizhou arrived at a place resembling a landscaped garden, filled with strange peaks and unusual rocks, as well as exotic flowers and plants he had never seen before. Mist rose from the water, making it seem like an earthly paradise.
The beauty of the place was breathtaking.
Xie Huizhou thought he could bring his painting supplies next time and paint here on the spot. This scenery was perfect for a painting.
He heard running water nearby and thought he must be close to the Cold Spring.
What was the Imperial Preceptor doing here?
Splash...
Zhang Lanhe soaked in the Cold Spring, his every thought consumed by Xie Huizhou. Only its bone-chilling waters could slowly dispel the feverish heat in his body and gradually clear his mind.
He kept calling the other's name, as though trying to engrave it upon his heart. "Huizhou... Huizhou..."
His rich, resonant voice echoed through the Cold Spring, the tender affection in his