Chapter 432 - 15: Part 2

Chapter 432: Chapter 15: Part 2

Li Xiao and Huang Pengfei left the picturesque Jiangnan Water Village and made their way to the enchanting Mountain City.

The moment they stepped off the train, they were stunned by the Mountain City’s unique topography. The undulating roads and the countless high-rises built into the mountainside created a powerful visual impact. Huang Pengfei’s eyes widened in amazement. "Li Xiao, this Mountain City is magnificent! It feels like we’ve stepped into a fantasy world." Li Xiao laughed. "Haha, you’re right, and there’s much more to the Mountain City’s charm than just this. Come on, let’s head to the hotel to drop off our luggage, then we can go properly explore the city."

They arrived at their reserved hotel, and after a short rest, they eagerly headed out. Following their itinerary, their first stop was the famous Mountain City Trail. They walked along an ancient, stone-paved path flanked by old, weathered buildings and lush greenery. As they walked, Li Xiao remarked, "This place has such a historical charm. You can really feel the Mountain City’s past and present." Huang Pengfei nodded in agreement. "Yeah, and it’s so peaceful, a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle outside."

As they continued walking, they met an elderly man taking a stroll on the trail. Huang Pengfei greeted him warmly, "Sir, is there anything special about this Mountain City Trail?" The old man smiled and replied, "Ah, this trail carries the history and memories of the Mountain City. Take your time as you walk, and soak in the peace and beauty here." After bidding the old man farewell, they continued on their way, admiring the scenery along the path.

After leaving the Mountain City Trail, they made their way to the Liberation Monument. This was the commercial heart of the Mountain City, bustling with people and full of life. Li Xiao looked up at the towering Liberation Monument and said, "The Liberation Monument is a true landmark of the Mountain City. It has witnessed this city’s development." Huang Pengfei also remarked, "Yeah, you can really feel the energy here."

After wandering around the Liberation Monument, the two were getting hungry. They decided to try the Mountain City’s specialty—hotpot. They found a very popular hotpot restaurant, and the moment they walked in, the rich aroma of hotpot wafted over them. They found a table, sat down, and ordered a spicy hotpot. Before long, the broth was brought to their table. Bright red chili peppers and Sichuan peppercorns bubbled in the pot, a mouth-watering sight.

"Whoa, this hotpot looks incredibly spicy!" Huang Pengfei said, a little worried. But Li Xiao just smiled. "Don’t be afraid. Mountain City hotpot is meant to be spicy; that’s what makes it so satisfying. Here, let’s start with some tripe." They chatted as they ate. The spice made Huang Pengfei break out in a sweat, but he couldn’t stop praising it. "This hotpot is so delicious! It’s spicy, but the more you eat, the more flavorful it becomes." Li Xiao nodded in agreement. "Exactly. That’s the charm of Mountain City hotpot."

After finishing their hotpot, they went to watch a local folk performance in the Mountain City—the face-changing of Sichuan Opera. The venue was packed, with the audience eagerly awaiting the spectacular show. As the music started, performers in magnificent costumes took the stage. Their performance was absolutely brilliant, and the speed of their face changes was dazzling. Li Xiao and Huang Pengfei were completely mesmerized, clapping and cheering nonstop.

After the performance, they went to buy some of the Mountain City’s local specialties. There were many to choose from, such as hotpot base, fried dough twists, and beef jerky. They entered a specialty shop and picked out a few things they liked. Holding up a package of hotpot base, Huang Pengfei said, "I’ll bring this back for our friends to try, so they can also experience the magic of Mountain City hotpot." Li Xiao smiled. "Exactly. These specialties are unique to the Mountain City and make for great souvenirs."

After buying souvenirs, they wandered the streets of the Mountain City for a while longer. At night, the Mountain City was brilliantly lit, possessing a unique charm. Li Xiao and Huang Pengfei stood on a viewing platform, overlooking the beautiful cityscape. Huang Pengfei sighed in contentment, "The Mountain City is truly beautiful. Today was so much fun." Li Xiao added, "It was. And tomorrow, we’re off to a new place. I wonder what surprises await us there."

Bidding farewell to the enchanting Mountain City, Li Xiao and Huang Pengfei set off for a vast land known for its magnificent frontier scenery.

After a long journey, they finally arrived in this land filled with a bold, open spirit. The moment they got out of the vehicle, a dry, cool wind hit their faces, instantly immersing them in a completely different atmosphere. Huang Pengfei excitedly threw his arms wide and shouted, "Li Xiao, this place is completely different! It feels so wide open." Li Xiao gazed at the rolling mountain ranges and the endless grasslands in the distance, his eyes full of anticipation. "You’re right. The scenery here will be unforgettable. Come on, let’s find a place to stay first, then we can really start exploring."

They found an inn with local character, and after dropping off their luggage, they eagerly rushed out to the grasslands. Standing on the prairie, the green grass seemed to stretch all the way to the horizon. Beneath the blue sky and white clouds, herds of cattle and sheep grazed leisurely. Li Xiao took a deep breath and sighed, "The air is so fresh here. It feels incredibly refreshing." Huang Pengfei, meanwhile, started running across the grass, shouting as he went, "Wow, this place is awesome!"

They strolled across the grasslands, occasionally encountering local herders. Li Xiao took the initiative to speak with one of them. "Sir, this prairie is so beautiful. Are there any special places we should see?" The herder replied enthusiastically, "You can go take a look at the lake over there, it’s gorgeous. There’s also a bonfire party tonight, which is always very lively."

Following the herder’s directions, they arrived at the edge of the lake. The water was so clear you could see the bottom, perfectly reflecting the blue sky and white clouds. It was breathtakingly beautiful. Huang Pengfei couldn’t help but pull out his camera and start snapping photos. "Li Xiao, look how blue this water is! It’s just like a mirror." Li Xiao smiled and nodded. "It really is beautiful. The natural scenery here is simply intoxicating."

Before they knew it, the sun began to set. They returned to the inn, ready to sample the local cuisine. The local delicacies included roasted whole lamb and hand-grabbed mutton. They ordered a roasted whole lamb, and when it was brought to their table, its tempting aroma made their mouths water.

"Wow, this roasted whole lamb looks so tempting!" Huang Pengfei eagerly picked up a piece of lamb and took a bite. "Mmm, this is incredible. Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and so aromatic." Li Xiao also tried a piece and was full of praise. "It really is delicious. This is one of the best roasted lambs I’ve ever eaten."

After dinner, they went to the bonfire party. A blazing bonfire lit up the night sky as people gathered around it, singing, dancing, and laughing. Swept up in the joyous atmosphere, Li Xiao and Huang Pengfei joined the crowd. They danced with the locals, feeling their warmth and heartiness.

After the bonfire party, they went to buy some local products. The specialties here included dairy products and woolen goods. They picked out some cheese and a few woolen scarves as souvenirs from their trip. Holding up a scarf, Huang Pengfei said, "This scarf is so warm. I’m going to give it to my mom when I get back; she’ll definitely love it." Li Xiao smiled. "You’re right. These local products are very distinctive and make perfect gifts."

The next day, they visited some of the local historical sites and ancient ruins. These monuments were a testament to the land’s long history and splendid culture. As they toured the sites, they marveled at the wisdom and creativity of the ancient people who built them.

After finishing their tour, they stood on the prairie, gazing into the distance. Huang Pengfei said, "Li Xiao, this trip has been incredible. The scenery, the food, the people... everything has left a deep impression on me." Li Xiao nodded in agreement. "It has. Every place has its own unique charm. Let’s look forward to the new surprises our next destination will bring."