Chapter 1388: 1388: Relentless Spirit (6)

Chapter 1388: Chapter 1388: Relentless Spirit (6)

Du Man’s lips twitched slightly, by now he had grown immune to Yang Ruxin’s occasional inappropriateness.

Behind the Lingyin Temple was a stretch of guesthouses, all nestled within the bamboo forest. Passing through them, one reaches a rear gate guarded by a Little Monk, who lets you out upon greeting and then up the mountain on a small path.

Lingyin Mountain was not tall; its peak was reached within a few steps.

She had wanted to cheer at the broad view and uplifted mood at the top, but unexpectedly, there was someone else there.

“What a coincidence, Lady Xinxin,” said Qi Jingyun, his smile bordering on a smirk as he looked at Yang Ruxin.

“Quite the coincidence,” Yang Ruxin’s gaze flickered, thinking to herself that he was like a Relentless Spirit, “I didn’t expect to find Third Master here, sorry to disturb your leisure, I’ll take my leave…”

“From Yangzhou all the way to Hangzhou, this prince has provided careful escort. What, you don’t even have time to join me for a cup of tea?” Qi Jingyun walked over and sat down at a stone table nearby, picked up the already boiling purple clay teapot, set it aside, then began adding tea leaves to the pot, “Authentic Longjing tea, the ordinary folks outside can’t get a sip of this… But the tea cannot be brewed with boiling water, lest its natural fragrance be ruined.”

Yang Ruxin took a deep breath, not vain but aware that today’s encounter was likely not a coincidence—this man must have been waiting for her here on purpose. Yet, it was surprising that he had calculated her visit to the back mountain.

Indeed, she hadn’t wronged Third Prince today; although he had arranged to discuss matters with someone else, he had indeed chosen this place because he knew she would come.

Yang Ruxin smiled and sat down across from him, “It seems Third Master is quite familiar with the people here,” remarking on how he even had access to such a tea set and tea leaves.

Qi Jingyun smiled back, saying nothing, but began to brew the tea seriously, then poured a cup himself and placed it before Yang Ruxin,”Try it.”

“I’m just a village girl, what do I know about tasting tea?” Yang Ruxin pretended to lift the cup and blow on it, then drank it all in one gulp, “A bit bitter, not as good as plain water.”

Qi Jingyun’s lips twitched involuntarily, but he did not show any sign of disdain, instead, he chuckled, “One must taste three sips for it to linger on the lips and teeth…”

“Heh heh,” Yang Ruxin laughed, “Your Highness, such refined pleasures are not suited for someone like me who’s lived in the village. Only now when times are better do I know to enjoy a cup of tea. Back in the day, working tirelessly like no tomorrow, my stomach was often more than half empty, and who would have the mind for tea? If I had a copper coin, I’d rather buy a bun or steamed bread. Most often, I might just fill my thirst with water, scooping it up and drinking half a jar in one go…”

“But now is not the same as before,” Qi Jingyun poured another cup of tea and handed it to her, “The current you is certainly qualified to partake in any elegant pastime.”

“Third Master, I am grateful for your previous help, yet I have not accepted favors for nothing,” Yang Ruxin had no desire to engage in pointless talk, “I don’t think we need to meet privately; after all, I’m a married woman. If others knew, it could impact my marital relationship, and likewise, it would damage Your Highness’ reputation, straying far from elegance.”

“Ha ha…” Qi Jingyun laughed, “Xinxin, by reminding me, aren’t you actually reminding yourself? Are you afraid that you might fall in love with this prince?”