1602 The Reencounter 5 (2/2)

In the yard, there was a small bridge over the flowing stream. A sense of considerable ingenuity was employed in the design of the pavilion. Gu Xijiu took a stroll around the residence to enjoy different views.

Rong Jialuo had indeed put in a lot of effort in the construction of her residence. The aesthetic of the place was comparable to that of the Grand View Garden, which was illustrated in the classic masterpiece- Dream of the Red Chamber. The scenes shifted from corner to corner as she moved on. Every part of the view was a picturesque landscape of supreme elegance along with a quaint old charm.

The eunuch, who had been following her, smiled and took the opportunity to please her. ”National Celestial Master, the place is entirely designed by the emperor himself. Are you pleased with the result?”

She did not expect Rong Jialuo to have such an obstinate determination in the design of the place.

Gu Xijiu nodded in approval. ”I am very much happy. Please thank the emperor for me.”

The eunuch smilingly agreed.

The residence had a man-made lake. Willows of tender green along the lake swung gently in the breeze. The pavement along the shore of the lake was covered in multicolored stones. At the end of the road, there was a vast area of bamboo groves. The soughing of the wind in the canopy of bamboo branches could be heard from afar.

Gu Xijiu was strolling along the shore to enjoy the lake view. The place seemed familiar like she had probably been there in the old days.

She thought about it and was reminded by a sudden realization. She then turned to the eunuch to seek for his opinion, ”Did this residence used to belong to the eighth prince?”

The eunuch smiled apologetically and explained, ”Your eyes are sharp. Indeed, the place used to be the eighth prince's residence. Eight years ago, the property was confiscated when the eighth prince was found to be guilty of treason.”