37 The Ways of Life (1/2)

*End of Li Wei's Memories*

In a meditation room of the temple, Li Wei sat in the corner. Her head leaned against the wall and her knees drew up against her chest. The corner of her eyes were red and puffy from crying. A couple hours of analysis and she didn't reach an answer. Instead, she felt tired and empty.

Khan Bojing... She wanted to run into his arms so the world could fade away.

Once she gained her usual composure, Li Wei descended from the temple back to where their camps were set up. Li Zhilan, who was previously picking flowers, ran to her side and hooked their arms together. ”Li Wei, do you want to join us in the inn? It gets cold in the mornings.”

”It's alright, I'll stay in the tents.” Li Wei politely declined but appreciated the gesture.

”The night sky is especially beautiful. ” Li Zhilan nodded in understanding. ”Come join our feast tonight. Li Wei, I want to show you the beauty of Sunset Temple.”

Li Wei nodded in agreement and Li Zhilan happily skipped away. As Li Zhilan's figure became a small dot, Li Wei's thoughts were on her. When Li Wei looked at Li Zhilan for herself and disregarded her status of being the prime minister's daughter, she was just an innocent girl in love.

Since her rebirth, Li Wei was able to really see people for their true colors without the lens of an evil heart. It would be good for both women to become friends. Nonetheless, Li Wei had nothing to lose. Li Zhilan was kind and loyal, surely a friendship would last for a lifetime.

When it came time for the gathering, Li Wei changed into a simple light green dress. All her hair were pulled into a high bun with a golden trumpet flower on the side. She looked especially young and innocent.

”Miss, you look my age.” San'er said as they walked side by side.

”Really?” Li Wei's eyes rolled up trying to see the bun on her head.

San'er laughed at the young miss' ridiculous attempt. ”En, you look especially cute.”

A small trail beside the waterfall wrapped around the bottom of the mountain led to a field of wildflowers in an opened area. From here, about fifty people had already arrived. Some were eating, some stood in small groups talking, and others sat watching the setting sun.

Li Wei stood in awe as they turned the corner, unable to move from the mesmerizing view. It was the perfect moment, the sun dipped halfway down the horizon. The vast sky of deep purple, pink and orange felt as if it was hanging just over her head.

Everything was washed with a white glow, almost as if she had opened the door to different realm. Each blossom lit up like there was a light from the inside. Her eyes shone brightly as if there were fireworks bursting inside. Never in her life had she seen such a magical place, truly worthy of its legend.

When the sun completely disappeared beyond the horizon, only then could she break out of the enchanting view. ”Truly beautiful like it's out of this world.”

”Indeed.” Hua Xifeng's gaze didn't falter from her as he spoke. He happened to arrive soon after Li Wei and couldn't help but find her amazed expression interesting.

Li Wei stared him, the man she loved so much she went crazy for. Unlike his brothers, he carried a calm demeanor, which was mistaken as being cold at times. Not many could get close to him. His status had taught him to be cautious since young. Still, he didn't take advantage of those less fortunate than him. Women swooned over him, men gave him a second glance, but he was loyal and true to Li Zhilan.

Overall, he was worthy of being the male lead and the next emperor of Na'an. But to risk everything in her life for him? Once again, Khan Bojing was right. Li Wei was a fool.

Ah, she should've listened to him since day one. He was smart and resourceful. As long as she held onto his sleeves, she would lead a bright life.

Mo Shufen walked over once she saw Hua Xifeng. As she spoke, her eyes passed from Li Wei's face to a group of maids in the distance. ”Li Wei, I didn't see you there. I almost mistaken you for someone else...”

Li Wei didn't bother to smile, and instead pointed to the side where the water was. There was no efforts spent to give face. They were not on good terms anyway. ”Miss Mo, the water here is clean and pure. Surely it'll be good to clarify your vision.”

Mo Shufen raged in anger. Her fists clenched tightly by her side. She waited for the prince to say something, but Hua Xifeng only looked as if he didn't hear it.

Thankfully, Li Zhilan came over and dissolved the tension in the air. She walked to Li Wei's side and intertwined their arms together. ”Li Wei, I'm glad you decided to come. Let's go over there.”

Li Wei genuinely smiled as she allowed Li Zhilan to pull her towards the tables of food and desserts. She was glad to be separated from Mo Shufen, who seemed to only want trouble at every encounter.