Chapter 409 - 4: The Terracotta Army

Chapter 409: Chapter 4: The Terracotta Army

Li Xiao and Huang Pengfei stood at the entrance to Wuzhen, large backpacks on, their eyes filled with the gentle tranquility of the Jiangnan Water Village.

"Hey, Old Li, this Wuzhen really lives up to its reputation! Look at these white walls, black tiles, small bridges, and flowing water. It’s like a painting," Huang Pengfei said excitedly.

Li Xiao smiled and nodded. "Isn’t it? I’d long heard about the beauty of Wuzhen, but seeing it today, it’s truly extraordinary. Come on, let’s go check out the special scenic areas first."

The two walked slowly along the stone-paved path, feeling as if they had stepped into an ancient scroll painting. They were captivated by the quaint charm of the East Gate, where Ming and Qing dynasty buildings with their carved beams and painted rafters told stories of times gone by.

"Wow, look at this house. The craftsmanship is just exquisite," Huang Pengfei marveled as they walked.

"Yeah, this place is steeped in history. Can you imagine what it was like for the people who lived here hundreds of years ago?" Li Xiao said thoughtfully.

They entered an old residence, which was filled with traditional furniture and farming tools. Huang Pengfei curiously touched one thing after another.

"Old Li, can you believe people used to work with these things? It must have been so tough."

"But these are the very things that witnessed their lives and their struggles," Li Xiao responded.

After leaving the residence, they came to one of the small bridges in the East Gate. Beneath it, the river gurgled, and small boats glided past, sending ripples across the water.

"This view is so beautiful. I wish we could stay here forever," Huang Pengfei said, leaning against the bridge railing and gazing into the distance.

"Haha, no can do. We still have lots of places to go. But this place really does lift your spirits," Li Xiao said with a laugh.

After exploring the East Gate, they arrived at the West Gate. The West Gate was even more tranquil and elegant than the East Gate, and the architecture was more refined. They strolled along the stone paths, admiring the scenery on both sides.

"Old Li, look at that pagoda! It’s so tall!" Huang Pengfei said, pointing to a tall pagoda in the distance.

"Come on, let’s go see," Li Xiao said, pulling Huang Pengfei toward it.

Arriving at its base, they looked up to see the pagoda soaring into the clouds. They entered and carefully climbed the spiraling staircase inside.

"This pagoda is so impressive. The view from the top must be incredible," Huang Pengfei said, panting.

They finally reached the top. From there, they could look down on all of Wuzhen. The white-walled, black-tiled houses were arranged in a picturesque jumble along the river, which sparkled in the sunlight. Small boats shuttled back and forth on the water, creating a scene straight out of a poem or painting.

"It’s gorgeous! This is practically a paradise on earth," Huang Pengfei couldn’t help but exclaim.

"It is. The beauty of Wuzhen is intoxicating," Li Xiao said, deeply moved as well.

After touring the scenic areas, they were both getting hungry. They started looking for local delicacies.

"I heard the braised mutton in Wuzhen is famous. Let’s go try some," Li Xiao suggested.

"Yeah, yeah! My mouth’s been watering for it," Huang Pengfei said eagerly.

They found a restaurant and ordered a portion of braised mutton. Before long, the fragrant dish was served.

"Wow, this smells amazing." Huang Pengfei picked up his chopsticks and put a piece of mutton in his mouth. "Mmm, the meat is tender and the flavor is rich. Delicious!"

Li Xiao also took a bite and nodded in praise. "It really is good. The food in Wuzhen truly lives up to its reputation."

After the braised mutton, they sampled other Wuzhen specialties, like Victory Cake and Gusao cakes. Every dish was unforgettable.

After their meal, they went to a folk performance venue in Wuzhen. A traditional Water Village wedding was being performed. The actors, dressed in historical costumes, reenacted the ancient wedding ceremony.

"This wedding is so interesting. It’s completely different from ours today," Huang Pengfei said.

"It is. This is the charm of traditional culture," Li Xiao said.

After the performance, they started shopping for local specialties. Wuzhen’s blue calico fabric and Sanbai wine were among its famous products. They picked out a few things they liked, planning to bring them back as gifts for friends and family.

"Old Li, this trip to Wuzhen has been so rewarding," Huang Pengfei said, carrying his full bags.

"Yeah. We not only saw beautiful scenery but also tasted great food, watched a folk performance, and bought souvenirs. Now, it’s time for our next destination," Li Xiao said.

Carrying their fond memories of Wuzhen, the two embarked on the next leg of their journey.

Li Xiao and Huang Pengfei, backpacks on and full of anticipation, arrived in the Ancient Capital Xi’an. The moment they stepped off the train, a thick sense of history washed over them.

"Wow, Old Li, this Xi’an is so majestic! It really lives up to its name as the capital of thirteen dynasties," Huang Pengfei said excitedly.

Li Xiao smiled and nodded. "It is. This city carries thousands of years of history. We have to really experience it this time. Come on, let’s go see the Terracotta Warriors first."

The two took a bus to the Terracotta Warriors, speculating about them the entire way.

"Old Li, just how spectacular are the Terracotta Warriors? I can’t wait," Huang Pengfei said, rubbing his hands together in excitement.

"Haha, be patient. You’ll see soon enough. It’s a world-famous wonder, after all," Li Xiao said, keeping him in suspense.

They finally arrived at the Terracotta Warriors site. After buying tickets, they followed the crowd into Pit No. 1. When the immense army formation appeared before their eyes, both of them were utterly shocked.

"Oh my god! This is just... magnificent!" Huang Pengfei’s eyes went wide, his mouth hanging open.