#Qingyuns Hidden Records

[jokertrap-ran]

(光与夜之恋 Light and Night) Event! 轻云寻隐录: Sariel’s BDAY 2021 Event! Qingyun’s Hidden Records (Chapter 1)

“The reason why I don't celebrate my birthday is because there is no need to.”

*Light and Night Master-list | Sariel’s Personal Master-list *Spoiler free: Translations will remain under cut *Join my Light & Night Discord (＾▽＾)~ ♪ *Event story tag will be #For Light and Memories

The train started moving without a sound after we got on board. Qingyun Station soon disappeared from the peripheral windows, engulfed within a smog of white fog.

❖☆———————————★❖

I followed Sariel into a separate cabin. The interior was furnished just like how the exterior of the train had been; it was done in complete retro-style.

All the furnishings were crafted from Phoebe wood with intricately carved designs, the wooden window frames were inlaid with stained glass for windows, and there was also a retro acoustic phonograph… It was admittedly a little overwhelming to take it all at once.

MC: It's as if we've entered a time tunnel.

Sariel: The journey's an hour. Don't get too excited about it.

Sariel seated himself on the sofa, starting to flip through an old book.

He didn't seem like he was going to tell me what this trip was for at all, hence, I did what I had to: open my mouth and ask.

MC: Can you tell me just who we're going to look for at Qingyun Swamp now?

Sariel: My lizard.

MC: Your lizard? No wonder I didn't see him when I went to your place. But what's he doing all the way at Qingyun Swamp?

MC: Oh! Unless… that lizard's also part of the Spirit Tribe just like you?

Sariel opened and closed his mouth for a while before simply nodding.

MC: Then… Can he speak too?

Sariel retained his silence, only nodding again in response.

I was nothing short of surprised. I thought back to the times that I'd interacted with the little lizard.

Nope. Still can't imagine it ACTUALLY talking…

MC: That lizard has also been alive for a long time now, right?

Sariel: ...Yes. But why are you so concerned about a lizard, hm?

MC: Because that's way too mystifying…

Sariel: My turn.

Sariel: Why were you so insistent on tagging along?

MC: That's because…

Sariel: Don't waste your brain juices trying to make up an excuse that even a 3-year old wouldn't believe.

MC: Fine. It's actually because…

Sariel looked a tad surprised by the time I finished telling him why I was here.

Sariel: My birthday? I seem to recall that being a thing, yes.

MC: You don't even remember your own birthday?

Sariel's brows slightly furrowed at my inquiry. Seeing the way the expression on his face did a whole 360, I immediately regretted it and scrambled to rectify myself.

MC: Ahem, I mean- Let me be the first to wish you a Happy Birthday!

MC: I've already prepared you a birthday present in advance, so I'm definitely the first of ten!

Sariel: Are you insinuating that I'm not popular?

MC: Of course not! I'm sure everyone has prepared presents for you. The company's even preparing a birthday party for everyone who's born in September.

Sariel: Presents? No thanks.

❖☆———————————★❖

Sariel took the book and leaned into the chair, leisurely narrowing his eyes, like a fox lazing about on a soft, plush, chair.

The faint lights from outside shone in through the stained glass windows, flickering as it cast a halo of iridescent light upon his hair and lashes alike.

Sariel: The reason why I don't celebrate my birthday is because there is no need to.

Sariel: Going through the same motions again and again only makes it monotonous.

Sariel: Plus, there’s nothing worth celebrating on this day.

MC: But this is your first birthday after I've met you. It's special.

Sariel paused midway through flipping the page, there was a very faint hint of amusement in his voice.

Sariel: It's special, sure. No one has ever pestered me this much with their chattering on this day before.

MC: Just you wait till next year! I'll get everyone to throw you a celebration!

Sariel: No thanks. Aren't you all already plenty noisy in the day?

❖☆———————————★❖

I didn't interrupt him and his reading again. Bored out of my mind, I started fiddling with the phonograph that was on the lower table by the side. Fiddle as I might, but I was all to no avail.

MC: Is this phonograph real…?

Sariel: Keeping you quiet is a seemingly impossible task.

Sariel grumbled as he closed his book. His long slender fingers slid past me as he reached out towards it. I don't know what magical fingers he had, but the vinyl record had slowly started to play.

A melodious little tune gradually started playing, filling the cabin with a pleasant noise. It felt as if even time had slowed.

I raised my head and coincidentally met his gaze. Under the wavering light of the day, those beautiful golden eyes of his held a gentle smile, looking extraordinarily bright; something that was rarely seen.

Sariel: Satisfied now?

❖☆————— �� For Light & Memories⊹ —————★❖

Previous Part: (Prologue) | Next Part: (Chapter 2)

[architectnews]

Shanthi Boutique Hotel, Zhejiang

Shanthi Boutique Hotel, Zhejiang Resort Complex, Chinese Building Development, Architecture Photos

Shanthi Boutique Hotel in Zhejiang

3 Dec 2020

Shanthi Boutique Hotel

Architecture: Jiakun Architects Location: Songyang, Zhejiang, China

An idyllic existence in the appropriate proximity to the nature and a clustered human settlement of a quiet village

The Shanthi Boutique Hotel adds another dimension to the nature of history

In 2013, Chinese National Geographic hailed Songyang, a county to the southeast of the province of Zhejiang as “the last hidden gem south of the Yangtze River”. Here, more than a hundred ancient villages hide on the far side of mountain roads and undulating cliffs. Perhaps due to the difficult access to the region, it remains close to nature and far away from the bustle of the city.

However, once visitors arrive on-site, time and space are experienced differently; aged trees, ancient temples, old houses, all provide the most unique cultural atmosphere, authenticity sealed away from public view, worthy of being praised as “an example of the ancient Chinese county”.

In the past seven years, this landscape of nature and culture has welcomed new life in the form of fresh design interpretations, gradually becoming a utopia for designers. Through a precise approach reminiscent of the most skilled acupuncture techniques, Songyang comprises a charming collection of diverse elements ranging from mountain scenery to primitive ancient villages and modern architectural masterpieces.

Three years ago, JIAKUN ARCHITECTS, led by principle architect Liu Jiakun, started the overall design of Songyang Wenli Community Center, including architecture, interior and landscape. In the design phase of Shanthi Boutique hotel at the center of Songyang City, Jiakun invited Zhang Can, who is the principal designer of CSD DESIGN, to join the team and deepen the interior deisgn of the Shanthi.

After strolling along Qingyun road, across the Confucian Temple, and through the courtyard on the south side of the old district’s committee building, visitors arrive at the “Small Hall” of the Shanthi Boutique Hotel. A multitude of unrestrained scenes from life, history and nature manifests here, masterfully curated inside its courtyard.

To Live in History or to Live in Nature

The hotel mainly consists of two elements: the original old district’s committee structures as well as brand-new spaces. Both the old and the new follow the same logic on architecture and design: to respect and procure the integration of all objects on site, including buildings and trees. When encountering trees, either approach must respect them and let them be in courtyards.

When encountering old buildings, it’s necessary to appreciate them like good observers, in a considerate manner, and allow them to naturally grow into graceful residences with central patios where “water from four directions flows into the hall”, in the architectural style of ancient residences south of the Yangtze River.

In the same fashion, the reception has been designed around an old tree. Terrazzo-like materials indoors and outdoors blur the boundaries of space, while vivid palm-weaving works from local artisans act as another key element of the design.

The designer deliberately integrates nature, culture and life into a well-balanced concept where all spaces and objects are in harmony with the course of “everything under the heavens”, allowing interaction between rigid and soft elements, leading feelings, thoughts and emotions to converge.

The Intersection where People and Architecture Meet with the Old and the New

At the “border area” between the newly built guest rooms and the district’s committee, a living room conceived as a cozy “fireside lodge” becomes the intersection that connects the old with the new.

The design further extends Songyang’s “cloaked” strategy, by installing mesh screens that separate the access lines to the guest rooms and provide a poetic atmosphere proper of “late night talks by the fireplace”.

The intertwined mechanism of people and time becomes a vivid and unique “decoration”. It also makes everything in the new building worthy of the “stature” of the old building.

The original wood doors witness and record the change of times, while cascades of wooden trusses add up to the style of the construction.

Furthermore, the designer uses tall dark brown wood baseboards and low-hanging corduroy curtains in dark-green tones to add the finishing touch to a dreamy atmosphere of ancient China.

However, the designer doesn’t feel “nostalgic” at all. The historical section has been reorganized in a modern context. Artistic elements such as a caramel leather sofa or vertical patterned glass are more than enough to bring visitors’ thoughts back into the present.

The interior design adopts different strategies in a targeted manner according to the conditions of the building. In the new structure, space and objects are all concise and simple. Artistically painted cement walls and wooden walls provide the best atmosphere to reflect light and shadows.

There is also a reflection screen and shading system hidden on top of the curtain walling in order to keep the space pure.

Artistic palm-weaving patterns reappear complemented by a vast selection of designer furniture in different styles that perfectly describe the nature of time and space in the hotel. Such elements are indoor “centerpieces”, a testimony of memory to be cherished and brought back home.

Shanthi Boutique Hotel, Zhejiang China – Building Information

Architecture Designed By Jiakun Architects Interior Designed By Jiakun Architects And CSD Design Developer: BEIJING TONG HENG SI CHENG INVESTMENT Co. Ltd Location: Songyang, Lishui, Zhejiang Chief designer: Liu Jiakun Architectural design team: Chen Kan, Yang Ying, Liu Su, He Qiang, Yi Huizhong Interior design team: Zhang Can, Chen Kan, Li Wenting, Yang Ying, He Qiang, Yi Huizhong, Deng Yu,Tang Jun, Wang Boyu, Liu Wenjing, Wang Zhangping, Yang Yan, Zhou Xiaohui & Guo Yuting Landscape design team: Chen Kan, Yang Ying, He Qiang, Yi Huizhong & Li Jing Lighting consultant: DEPT. OF LIGHTING PLANNING & DESIGN, TSINGHUA TONGHENG URBAN PLANNING & DESIGN INSTITUE Interior lighting design: DEPT. OF LIGHTING PLANNING & DESIGN, TSINGHUA TONGHENG URBAN PLANNING & DESIGN INSTITUE, Zhang Can, Li Wenting, Chen Kan, Yang Ying, He Qiang, Yi Huizhong FF& E design team: Tang Jia, Xian Lijuan & Wei Ai Signage design team: WUYONG ART & DESIGN, Zhang Can, Li Wenting Interior area: 1400 sqm Project starting date: 05/2017 Completion date: 09/2020 Opening: 1/10/2020

Images © Wang Ting

Shanthi Boutique Hotel, Zhejiang images / information received 031220

Location: Songyang, Zhejiang, China

Comprehensive Gymnasium of International Campus Zhejiang University, Haining Architects: The Architectural Design and Research Institute of Zhejiang University Co., Ltd. photo : Zhao Qiang Comprehensive Gymnasium of International Campus Zhejiang University

Location: 718 Haizhou East Rd, Ninghai, Zhejiang Province, People’s Republic of China

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[jokertrap-ran]

(光与夜之恋 Light and Night) Event! 轻云寻隐录: Sariel’s BDAY 2021 Event! Qingyun’s Hidden Records (Prelude)

“Just go sit at the counter. I have no wish to see my kitchen get blown up.”

*Light and Night Master-list | Sariel’s Personal Master-list *Spoiler free: Translations will remain under cut *Join my Light & Night Discord (＾▽＾)~ ♪ *Event story tag will be #For Light and Memories

I stood in front of the entrance of Sariel's place, breathing a deep sigh before raising a hand…

And as to why I'm here… That story goes back to a week ago.

❖☆———————————★❖

Zheng Lin: (Y/n), I have some things here that I require you to handle.

Just as I was haplessly being drowned amid a monotonous stack of documents and materials alike, the unique document that was placed before me perked me right up.

MC: September's Staff Birthday Party…

Sariel Qi's Birthday: 9/1!

My eyes widened in shock, reading the document through again. Yup, my eyes weren't fooling me.

I never thought that this was how I’d learn of his birthday… Although Sariel wasn’t the one who told me about his birthday, how about I celebrate it with him now that I do know it?

I keyed in a reminder on my phone and began seriously thinking about just how I should throw him a special birthday celebration.

❖☆———————————★❖

MC: I need to check what flavour of cake he likes before I can even prepare him one…

MC: I’ll have to be careful not to expose the fact that I’m there to acquire information and keep up the act of having “just passed by”.

Putting on a lost look, desperate for help, I pressed the doorbell.

The wind on the side of the mountain was by no means gentle. It was a little cold as it blew against my face, but it helped calm my nervous heart, providing me with an additional boost of courage and anticipation.

Ding-Dong!

The doorbell had only just rung before the door instantly swung open along with an icy greeting from none other than Sariel himself.

Sariel: Still dare to come back?

He took a second take upon seeing me at the door. He massaged his temples in sight annoyance before his initial expression of sternness loosened up.

Sariel: You…

MC: Yes, me.

Why do things seem a little different here? Is he waiting for someone?

MC: Err, Director Qi. I just happened to pass by here, but I can't find the road back down the mountain…

Sariel: Pass by? Halfway up a mountain?

MC: I'm actually… mountaineering.

Sariel: I don't seem to recall you ever having a hobby of mountaineering.

MC: Well, we're all office people, right? We need more exercise.

Sariel: So, you just so happened to climb this mountain, coincidentally failed to find the path, yet chanced upon my house?

He slowly blinked, a hint of a smirk playing at the corners of his lips. However, he didn’t look the slightest bit angry at all.

MC: Same goes for you when you happened to pass by my place while on the way home from the vet.

Sariel: …...

Sariel's smile immediately vanished without a trace. He slightly turned away.

Sariel: That WAS a coincidence.

MC: Yes, yes, alright. It was a coincidence.

MC: So, could I bother you to take me in for a while, Director Qi? I didn't bring food with me so not only am I starving, but I'm also feeling a little light-headed.

Sariel: ...Come in.

❖☆———————————★❖

Sariel: Wait. Wash your hands at the entrance.

In the few days I didn't see him, Sariel's clean freakiness seemed to have increased again.

MC: Right, who did you think I was earlier?

Sariel: No one.

Sariel instantly denied it, but then realized that he’d probably refuted it a little too hastily, thus deciding to explain himself.

Sariel: I thought it was my takeaway delivery.

MC: You do takeaway!?

Sariel: ...Occasionally.

MC: What takeaway do you usually eat? Other than salads, I mean.

MC: Do you avoid any kind of food? For example… Are you allergic to tropical fruits? Do you perhaps like chocolate?

MC: What’s the level of sweetness you can take when it comes to sweet food? Do you like slightly bitter things like matcha, for example?

❖☆———————————★❖

I followed closely behind Sariel, rapidly firing questions at him without noticing the fact that he’d halted. My face had already crashed into his back before I could even react.

MC: Ow… Why did you stop all of a sudden?

Sariel: I'm thinking if I've just been duped.

Sariel: You look nothing like a frail and fragile person who's about to faint. In fact, you're bursting full of life.

MC: ……

Despite saying that, he still opened the fridge and took out a few boxes of vegetables and a box of spare ribs.

By the time he’d put on his apron, I already found myself standing up his sides with my sleeves rolled up and ready to assist.

Sariel: Just go sit at the counter.

Sariel: I have no wish to see my kitchen get blown up.

MC: ...Oh.

After about half an hour of waiting, a set of two dishes and a bowl of soup was served on the counter before me.

I took a tentative bite out of it, mentally noting that Sariel liked his ribs a little on the sweet side.

And he liked tea too… So why don’t I just make him a matcha cake? Mildly sweet, yet slightly bitter.

Sariel: I'll send you down the mountain once you're done eating. I'm leaving on a trip.

MC: A trip!?

Remembering the birthday plan, I panicked. Sariel shot me a suspicious look.

MC: Where are you going? When will you be back?

Sariel: To look for someone. I don't know when I will be returning.

What if 1st September passes while he’s gone? Wouldn’t my plan go down the drain!?

Sariel: Judging by the look on your face right now… Just what are you planning again?

MC: Can I go with you, Sariel?

MC: I mean- It’s been a long time since I went out, so I want to admire the scenery!

Sariel: ……

Sariel: I’m going to Qingyun Swamp. It’s not a place for one like you.

Qingyun Swamp? I racked my brains for that semi-unknown name. Then, I finally recalled it after catching sight of an ancient book that was lying open on the table.

❖☆———————————★❖

Qingyun Swamp was a place of the past, located in the southern suburbs of Guangqi City. It was a large forest born from the waters.

It's a shame that now most of the trees there had been cut down in this modern times, and all the water there had also dried up for no rhyme or reason. Right now, only one remnant remains of the place: The abandoned Qingyun Station.

There’s also an ancient legend about Qingyun Swamp. According to it, there is a mysterious secluded island there similar to paradise itself.

❖☆———————————★❖

I subconsciously glanced at the ancient book atop the table again. There was an old map of Guangqi inscribed on its old yellowing pages.

Is he really going to Qingyun Swamp, a mysterious place that had long since disappeared? Just who is he trying to find all the way down there?

Although I was filled with doubts, I still enthusiastically raised my hand to tag along.

MC: Then that’s precisely why you HAVE to bring me along! I might be able to help you if you’re looking for someone! More hands to go around, right?

Sariel: Are you hiding something from me?

MC: You saw through me, huh… Actually, I’ve always wanted to go to Qingyun Swamp, and it’s second nature for me to want to help others...

MC: And this is my once in a lifetime chance and-.

Sariel held out a hand to stop me, seemingly having a brewing headache just from my chattering alone.

Sariel: Very well.

Sariel: But I'll say this first: No regretting it when you get there.

❖☆————— ⊹ For Light & Memories⊹ —————★❖

Next Part: (Prologue)

[jokertrap-ran]

(光与夜之恋 Light and Night) Event! 轻云寻隐录: Sariel’s BDAY 2021 Event! Qingyun’s Hidden Records (Chapter 5) [FINAL]

“I will remember this day.”

*Light and Night Master-list | Sariel’s Personal Master-list *Spoiler free: Translations will remain under cut *Image used with permission from 蓝咕咕 ☆ *Join my Light & Night Discord (＾▽＾)~ ♪ *Event story tag will be #For Light and Memories

The sky had already turned completely dark by the time we reached the actual Lin Isle.

“Lin Isle” was most certainly located up a mountain. The antique-style pavilions and pagodas were built on the mountainous terrain, its lights were akin to a long dragon, coiled around the lake that stood in the middle of it all.

❖☆———————————★❖

Sariel: It'd be better if you don't wander off on your own.

Sariel: There are many Spirits here that do not like outsiders. They'll spare no chance to attack you on sight.

Hearing this, I unconsciously gripped onto his sleeve, sticking closer to him.

MC: Are we going to go look for the little lizard now?

Sariel surveyed the area and shook his head.

Sariel: Rest for tonight. We'll go fetch him tomorrow.

MC: Rest where?

❖☆———————————★❖

Sariel took me to a cold, lone, old mansion. We were seemingly the only ones in it.

Sariel: Rest here. Don't leave unless it's for something of absolute importance.

Having said so, he turned to leave. I darted a hand out to catch his sleeve.

MC: What about you?

Sariel: Scared now?

Faced with my puppy eyes, he gave a helpless sigh.

Sariel: I'll be right next door.

Sariel: Yell for me if anything happens and I'll hear you.

I felt relieved knowing that he was only a wall away.

❖☆———————————★❖

I entered the room and was just about to lie down after washing my face and rinsing my mouth when I suddenly realized that I hadn’t given him the birthday present that was in my bag.

MC: I almost forgot!

I rolled back upright, retrieved the present, opened the door, and stepped out into the courtyard.

❖☆———————————★❖

It was deathly quiet in the courtyard, with only the cold moonlight shining upon the gravel paths. Both the door and the windows of the room Sariel was staying at next door were shut tight with no lights on.

MC: Wonder if he's already asleep…

??: What are you snooping about for?

The sudden voice that came from behind made me jolt up with a violent start, causing the bag in my hand to nearly tumble to the ground.

I warily turned back to see Sariel standing under the shade of the bamboo, the bright moon giving his silvery-white hair an obscure glow.

MC: You scared me half to death…

Sariel: What are you planning on doing, sneaking around in the dead of the night instead of sleeping?

MC: I just remembered that I haven't given you your birthday present yet.

Sariel: Tomorrow will do.

MC: No way! It'll be too late once midnight passes.

I procured a mysterious-looking paper box from my bag, gently opening it before Sariel to reveal its contents.

MC: Ta-da!

However, Sariel wasn’t as surprised as I thought he would be. At first, he froze

What's it to him?

I quickly looked down at the box…

MC: The words are upside down!

In the box was a row of cupcakes that I’d specially piped the epiphyllums on, each with a single word iced alongside it.

They had originally been lined up to form the words “Happy Birthday Sariel, please smile more”, but has now become a jumble that didn’t make sense at all. The long journey with them in tow, in the bag I carried along, must have jumbled their arrangement...

MC: No, this doesn't count. I'll do it again. Let me rearrange it before showing it to you…

However, Sariel softly held my hand down.

Sariel: No need. I can read just fine.

Sariel picked up a cupcake with the word "smile" written on it and took a bite of it, his eyes considerably softening.

MC: How does it taste?

Sariel: Better than the sugar painting.

MC: Can't you just give me a straightforward word of praise?

MC: I tried one after making them. It was especially delicious.

Sariel: So I'm not the first one to be eating this cake?

MC: ……

Sariel: So, she swore up and down to celebrate my birthday and to be the first one to wish me a Happy Birthday.

Sariel: Yet ends up being the one to take the first bite out of my birthday cake?

MC: C’mon! You’ve already advanced a year! No more mulling about old things and let bygones be bygones!

Sariel: You said everything, not me.

MC: Isn't it fine so long as you like it?

Sariel: ……

MC: No saying anything disheartening on birthdays, no complaints about how boring it is, how naggy, or how noisy I am… Not a single word!

Sariel: ……

MC: Right, I have a small gift for you.

I withdrew a formal top hat from the bag, something that I’d spent days working on. Atop the brim of the black satin hat was an epiphyllum, embroidered by layers upon layers of silver threading.

MC: I made it myself. Look, isn't it way better than before?

Sariel took the black formal top hat from me, gently running his fingers along the embroidered epiphyllum as his eyes softened.

Sariel: A little.

MC: Just "a little"?

Sariel: Want me to pick it apart now?

MC: No thanks… How could I ever make you lift a work-related finger on a nice, pleasant, day off?

A quick glance at my watch told me that it was nearly midnight. I quickly cleared my throat and straightened up.

MC: Happy Birthday, Sariel! Midnight’s not over yet, so it’s still your birthday!

Sariel: Don’t get too attached to this date.

Sariel: It means nothing to me.

MC: But the 1st of September is a very special day to me.

Sariel: What's so special about it?

MC: You. That’s why it’s special.

Sariel looked away a little awkwardly. In the darkness, a faint tinge of red seemingly rose up to his cheeks.

MC: What? Do you have something to say about it?

Sariel: ……

However, he never answered; merely staring stubbornly ahead, into the distance. Following his line of sight, I found that there were several blooming epiphyllums planted at a corner of the courtyard.

They appeared to have sensed something, their pristine white petals slowly stretching outwards until the flower had fully bloomed. It was almost like they'd wanted to use every ounce of strength they had to dedicate this beautiful life to the moon tonight.

I turned to look at Sariel, only to find that his eyes had already long since been trained back onto me.

There, too, seemed to be slivers of gentle moonlight wavering in his orbs.

Sariel: (Y/n).

Sariel: I will remember this day.

❖☆————— ⊹ For Light & Memories⊹ —————★❖

Previous: (Chapter 4)

[jokertrap-ran]

(光与夜之恋 Light and Night) Event! 轻云寻隐录: Sariel’s BDAY 2021 Event! Qingyun’s Hidden Records (Chapter 2)

“You're a stupid bird, so you can't be considered the same as the other humans.”

*Light and Night Master-list | Sariel’s Personal Master-list *Spoiler free: Translations will remain under cut *Image used with permission from 蓝咕咕 ☆ *Join my Light & Night Discord (＾▽＾)~ ♪ *Event story tag will be #For Light and Memories

Time passed in a flash, accompanied by the leisurely tune that resonated through the cabin. The train stopped at a station named “Shaqing Town”.

Exiting the station, we were greeted by the bustling sounds of people all around. It was almost as if we’d just returned to the Human World.

This blue-tiled white-walled old town was surrounded all around by waters and mountains alike. The cobblestone steps led straight into the heart of the ancient forest while the rows upon rows of small shops set up alongside the road made the place look very lively.

MC: This is Qingyun Swamp? It looks no different from an old town.

Sariel: It is an ordinary town.

Sariel looked at the old town before him, a faint flicker of nostalgia wavering within the depths of his eyes.

Sariel: Just one that happens to be in the middle of Qingyun Swamp and the Human World.

Sariel: In the World of Spirits, some choose to befriend humans; but at the same time, there are also countless of them who chose not to, as well as some who outright hate humans.

Sariel: The people of the Spirit Tribe who live here in Shaqing are those who are close and co-exist with humans. And further in would be Lin Isle, where everyone is part of the Spirit Tribe.

MC: Which means… you're in the "human-friendly" faction, right?

Sariel shot me a look but didn’t say anything about my assumption.

MC: You don’t exactly have the best temperament, often overwhelmingly harsh and give me a cold shoulder or two every once in a while, but…

I ticked the points off my fingers one-by-one as I counted, and Sariel’s face grew increasingly darker as I went on.

MC: But you’ve always helped me work on my designs and are ever the good teacher.

MC: I don’t think I’d have such wholesome progression in my life if I hadn’t met you.

MC: So, I don’t think you’d be going so far as to help me if you truly hated humans.

Sariel had unwittingly curled his lips into a faint arc, chuckling lightly.

Sariel: Only because you're a stupid bird.

Sariel: So you can't be considered the same as the other humans.

MC: ……

My glum look seemingly perked him right up; so much that there was even amusement dancing in his orbs.

Sariel: Come on. We're still far from our destination.

Walking through the bustling crowd of tourists, I was completely unable to tell spirits from humans just based on outlooks alone.

I then recalled Sariel’s small snow-white fox ears, unable to stop myself from trying to imagine just what the rest of the spirits could look like.

MC: If only the rest of the Spirit Tribe could show their ears and tail too…

I gave a light sigh, but that was still enough to catch Sariel's attention, nevertheless.

Sariel: Not possible.

MC: Why?

Sariel: ...There's no "why" about this.

Sariel seemed reluctant to elaborate more on the matter, so I dropped the topic with a smidge of regret.

MC: Oh… I guess it’s not worth hoping for anything then… If only you could show me those fox ears of yours again...

I was speaking nothing but nonsense as my gaze travelled to a shop selling sugar painting by the street. The owner skillfully manoeuvred a spoon, deftly creating an image of a fox in a few strokes.

Sariel: Never knew you were a fan of pillars.

Suddenly, a big hand came before my forehead, making me stumble a couple of steps backwards.

I turned my attention back to the front, only to see a stone pillar standing less than 20cm away from me.

Sariel: Eyes front when you walk.

MC: I do! Normally! And I have you here now.

Sariel: Hmm?

MC: You'll pull me back whenever it's dangerous, right?

Sariel: ……

Sariel: I really should have let you run face-first into it. Suffer a little, leave a lasting impression.

MC: Alright, I get it.

MC: I just saw something really cool earlier… Right! Wait for me!

I’d already made quick work of the distance, darting to the sugar painting shop without waiting for his reply.

MC: ……

Owner: Hello, young miss. I'll draw another one right up for ya.

MC: Sure!

MC: Oh! Could you make the fox’s ears a little bigger? And make its fur look flowier! The majestic and grand kind!

Owner: Well… That’s a little hard for me to do, miss. Why don’t you do it yourself and I’ll just charge you for the maltose?

He waved for me to go stand beside him, scooping a spoonful of the ambrosial syrup and motioning for me to take it.

I was a little nervous but eager to try my hand at it. I mimicked the way he’d held the spoon earlier, carefully crafting the outline of the fox I had in mind.

MC: First, the body… then the tail, big and fluffy…

MC: How do I draw fur!? Yikes! Too much maltose!

I was faced with a pool of syrup that quickly hardened and took shape, I found myself at a loss at the odd misshapen blob it had become, inwardly lamenting,

Instantly, I felt my spoon-wielding hand gently encased by warmth. Puffs of warm breaths crawled up my neck from behind, and I could even feel light wisps of hair brushing against my ears in a ticklish manner.

I turned around to see Sariel’s side profile.

He was so close; so very close that I could almost make out the sound of his heartbeat.

Ba-thump, ba-thump.

Yet at the same time, it too sounded like my own. It threw my mind into disarray and my once steady breathing into nothing short of a mess.

Sariel: Why's your hand shaking?

MC: Err, what did you come over…?

Sariel: You are my student. I'm here to supervise you so that you don't embarrass me.

Sariel: Focus.

It was as if he could work magic, for the rebellious spoon became swift and elegant under his guiding hand as he fixed up my prior mess.

Soon, an impressive fox formed before my eyes.

MC: You really salvaged it!

I couldn't hide my surprise, turning around and showing it to him. The amber-coloured fox appeared translucent under the sun's rays, breathing life into the work of art.

MC: Look, this should be the King of Foxes, don't you think?

Sariel: So? Only kids would like something like this.

MC: You drew it too!

MC: Say, don't you think this fox looks a little like…

Sariel: No. Hurry up.

Seeing Sariel rear back up, ready to leave, I quickly caught hold of his sleeve.

MC: Are you not going to have a taste of it, at least? I'll finish it myself then.

However, he instantly changed his mind, snatching up the piece of sugary art just as quickly.

Sariel: Wishful thinking. I drew half of it.

MC: But you don't even eat things like this!

Sariel: Says who?

To prove his point, he bit off one of the ears, chewed twice, and took his own sweet time licking off the crumbs of sugar stuck to the sides of his mouth with an absolutely straight face.

Not wanting to lose, I dashed up to chomp off the other ear, crunching it hard as I chewed.

And this was how we ended up looking at each other while chewing. The image of us sharing the same sugary treat suddenly appeared before my eyes, making me acutely aware of the missing portions of the sugary artwork.

There were still remnants of unmelted maltose at the back of my throat; all so very sweet.

❖☆————— ⊹ For Light & Memories⊹ —————★❖

Previous Part: (Chapter 1) | Next Part: (Chapter 3)

[jokertrap-ran]

(光与夜之恋 Light and Night) Event! 轻云寻隐录: Sariel’s BDAY 2021 Event! Qingyun’s Hidden Records (Chapter 4)

“The Spirit Tribe has an easier method of getting up to Lin Isle. You, however, would not be able to utilize that.”

*Light and Night Master-list | Sariel’s Personal Master-list *Spoiler free: Translations will remain under cut *Image used with permission from 蓝咕咕 ☆ *Join my Light & Night Discord (＾▽＾)~ ♪ *Event story tag will be #For Light and Memories *T/N: See this tweet here. That’s precisely what’s going on in a nutshell.

I slept super soundly. It wasn't till someone gently shook me that I roused from dreamland.

Sariel: Wake up. We're arriving.

❖☆———————————★❖

I blearily opened my eyes to see Sariel terrifyingly close at hand. He looked down at me, a faint flicker of amusement flashing past his eyes.

Sariel: Wipe the drool off your face.

I quickly raised a hand to wipe it off, only to find the side of my mouth dry.

MC: There's no drool at all!

Rearranging my hair, I then caught sight of the slight wrinkles on his shoulder that had been made by me sleeping on it.

MC: I blame my excitement for this trip for the lack of sleep.

Sariel: Sounds like you, alright. But it's just a trip to settle some business; what's there to be excited about?

MC: We're going to a place that has disappeared!

MC: Is Lin Isle up ahead?

There was an emerald green Isle in the middle of the lake, standing not too far away. It was so serene, that it seemed to be one with the shadow of its reflection in the waters.

❖☆———————————★❖

The boat passed a gallery bridge before stopping at the shore. Upon stepping foot onto the Isle, I realized that there were barely any traces of there being inhabitants here.

Sariel: I didn't say that it was.

Sariel: The real "Lin Isle" is located up the mountains.

I blinked in confusion before casting a cautionary glance at the towering mountain located at the top region of the Isle and looking back at Sariel, who was standing beside me, again.

Sariel: No use looking at me. The steps are over there.

Sariel: We’ll have to brave the elements out here if we don’t get to the top of the mountain before it gets dark.

It was only then that I found the bluestone steps, hidden by the dense woods all around. It led straight up, like a stairway to heaven, with no end in sight.

MC: Can we really get there before it gets dark?

Sariel: You can always just wait for me here.

MC: No way! I came here with you; there’s no way I’m giving up halfway through!

And most importantly, I still have to celebrate your birthday this evening!

In this quiet and dense forest, only one or two Spirits appeared once in a while, cautiously looking at us from a distance before leaving as quietly as they came.

Lifting my slightly sore right leg, I panted as I climbed up another step.

MC: Just how many steps are on this thing?

Sariel: No idea. No one has ever counted.

Compared to my dishevelled and suffering self, Sariel looked completely at ease doing this, not even breaking a sweat. Or rather, he seemed to be doing much better than usual ever since stepping foot onto this Isle.

MC: Don't tell me you have to suffer this climb every time you come up to the Isle. This is way too exhausting…

Sariel: The Spirit Tribe has an easier method of getting up to Lin Isle. You, however, would not be able to utilize that.

MC: I'm the one dragging you down… Sorry.

Sariel: It's too late for apologies. Who told me to have already brought you here.

Sariel: Which I wouldn't have done if you weren't harping about this being your "once-in-a-lifetime request" over and over like a broken recorder.

Recalling how I’d pestered him to no end about it, I felt my face grow hot.

Sariel: Can you continue?

MC: ...Yeah!

Gritting my teeth, I decided to give myself a speed boost. Until Sariel extended his hand before me.

Sariel: Hand.

His unyielding grip tightened around my wrist, holding onto me as we continued proceeding our upward climb.

He was clearly the one pulling me onwards, but I felt as if I’d just received a boost of strength, my footsteps growing lighter and swifter.

The twilight light shone through the gaps between the leaves, falling upon the back of the figure before me, gracing his form with an outlining halo.

I felt my heart skip a beat. It felt as if this was a sight that I’d witnessed countless times before...

❖☆————— ⊹ For Light & Memories⊹ —————★❖

Previous: (Chapter 3) | Next Part: (Chapter 5)

[jokertrap-ran]

(光与夜之恋 Light and Night) Event! 轻云寻隐录: Sariel’s BDAY 2021 Event! Qingyun’s Hidden Records (Chapter 3)

“Sleep. I'll wake you when we're there.”

*Light and Night Master-list | Sariel’s Personal Master-list *Spoiler free: Translations will remain under cut *Image used with permission from 蓝咕咕 ☆ *Join my Light & Night Discord (＾▽＾)~ ♪ *Event story tag will be #For Light and Memories *T/N: References here are: 1. 桃花源記 (The Peach Blossom Spring, Year 421CE) by the Six Dynasties poet 陶淵明 (Tao Yuanming) 2. 南柯一梦 (A Dream Under the Southern Bough) A Kun Opera play by the revered Chinese Ming Dynasty playwright 汤显祖 (Tang Xian Zu) in the 16th century.

Passing through Shaqing Town, we found ourselves at a deserted dock.

The narrow river was surrounded by mountains on both sides, shrouded by thick white fog up ahead, making visibility a menace for all.

MC: We're crossing the river to get to the isle? Don't we need a boat for this?

Sariel: The boat is here.

I doubtfully looked in the same direction as him. There was a wooden post at the dock where a skiff was casually tied to it. It drifted side-to-side, seemingly on the verge of capsizing anytime alongside the waves.

MC: You mean… this small boat here?

Sariel: Yes.

MC: But…

Sariel got onto the boat while I stood hesitantly on land. No matter how I thought about it, this boat was way too dangerous to be riding on.

Sariel: Want to be a river-looking stone?

MC: Don't you think we need an experienced boatman, a lifejacket, and a lifebuoy, or something?

Sariel breathed a light sigh and extended a hand towards me.

Sariel: Have you already forgotten that this isn't the human world that you're used to?

Sariel: Get on. This boat won't flip even with 10 of you.

Some odd strike of fate made me place my hand onto his outstretched palm, letting him pull me into the boat. Alas, the boat didn't give so much as a rock.

After I settled in next to Sariel, the small boat started moving automatically, as if driven by the river's current. We left the shore, heading deeper towards the heart of the river.

❖☆———————————★❖

The narrow river before me gradually started to grow wider as the mist covering the water surface slowly disappeared, revealing the green hills that surrounded us in all their entirety. It was like a behemoth,  slumbering deep in the middle of the river. Grand and imposing; a place, unlike the Human World.

MC: Being in this place feels like I've just stepped into The Peach Blossom Spring*… "Traveling along the creek's edge,  forgetting the distance of the route"...

MC: Will it be like what happened in A Dream Under the Southern Bough*, where 10 years have already passed in a blink of an eye by the time we get back to Guangqi City?

I turned my head, sighing. Sariel contemplated the thought for a while but didn’t deny or say otherwise.

Sariel: There hasn't been anyone here in ages. Perhaps it is just as you say.

Sariel: Ordinary people ought to pay a price if they want to enter Qingyun Swamp.

He lowered his gaze, and the deadpan of his voice made me panic a little.

MC: … Can I still make it in time if I  head back now?

Sariel: Too late.

Looking at how panicked I was, Sariel suddenly let out a snort of laughter.

Sariel: Only you'd believe such absurdity.

Sariel: I'm merely joking.

MC: …….

Sariel: Why so quiet? Angry?

MC: Never mind. I'll forgive you on account of you being the birthday star today.

Sariel: This is the benefit of being the birthday star today?

Sariel: Do I get any other benefits than this?

MC: Nope! But you can keep your eyes peeled for what's to come!

After re-entering a state of calm, the sound of the boat threading through the waters was almost dream-inducing. Having woken up in the wee hours of the morning today, I couldn’t stop myself from slowly nodding off.

Sariel: Going to an unfamiliar place, one where the Spirits live, yet still in the mood to doze off? You don’t seem the slightest bit afraid at all.

I tried my hardest to make out what he was trying to say, but I was too sleepy, and my consciousness gradually faded away.

MC: I am a little scared, but I have you, so I'm not too worried about it

Sariel pursed his lips, staring far beyond the water. His demeanour looked a tad solemn.

I had a faint inkling about what www going on here. Opening my mouth, I softly asked him.

MC: Are you worried about me?

MC: Don’t worry. Even if it’s really an illusionary dream, it wouldn’t be all that bad to spend 10 years with you in one fell swoop.

Sariel: What's with that sort of twisted thinking?

MC: It's not… Isn't this valid though?

A very soft sigh sounded in my ear. Half-awake, I could feel a hand gently supporting my head, as he shifted to let it rest on his shoulder.

Sariel: Sleep. I'll wake you when we're there.

As soon as I relaxed, I found myself drifting into a deep sleep.

Within my dreams, was the ever-present yet faint fragrance of flowers.

❖☆————— ⊹ For Light & Memories⊹ —————★❖

Previous: (Chapter 2) | Next Part: (Chapter 4)

[jokertrap-ran]

(光与夜之恋 Light and Night) Event! 轻云寻隐录: Sariel’s BDAY 2021 Event! Qingyun’s Hidden Records (Prologue)

“Just who was he going to look for down at Qingyun Swamp?”

*Light and Night Master-list | Sariel’s Personal Master-list *Spoiler free: Translations will remain under cut *Join my Light & Night Discord (＾▽＾)~ ♪ *Event story tag will be #For Light and Memories

The 1st of September came in the blink of an eye. It was in the wee hours of the morning that I rushed to the location that I'd agreed to meet up with Sariel at.

Although the station that greeted me was by means small, it was a shell of its former glory. The shaky and crumbling sign read: Qingyun Station.

MC: Just how long has it been since someone was last here?

Curious, I surveyed the area. The matter of ticketing officers and passengers, or the lack thereof, aside, the railroad tracks of this station had completely rusted over. And there were even weeds growing!

MC: Didn't Sariel say that we needed to take the train to Qingyun Swamp? ...It doesn't even look like trains are running here.

As soon as the words left my lips, I saw a familiar figure across the road. I quickly jumped up, waving my hands at it.

MC: Sariel! Over here!

Sariel paused in his footsteps, sighed, and quickly walked up to me. He was just about to say something when his gaze stopped on my bulging backpack.

Sariel: If I didn't know any better, I'd think you were going for an autumn outing.

MC: Course not! All the stuff in here is my secret things. Don't go opening it when I'm not looking!

Sariel: Don't overthink it. I'm not interested in your secrets.

MC: Why do you only have a small bag with you?

Sariel: There are daily necessities and a change of clothes there.

Sariel: If it weren't for a certain someone who insisted on tagging along, I doubt I'd even need to be packing a small bag.

I sneaked over and peeked at the contents of the bag. All I caught was a glimpse of a packet of shrimp crackers before Sariel changed hands.

Sariel never, ever, ate snacks… which means… Did he pack those for me?

MC: Thank you, Sariel.

Sariel: I don't know what you're talking about.

I could hear the faint sound of a whistle headed this way. I froze, standing on tip-toes and squinted, attempting to look into the distance.

Sariel: I'm just going there to settle some business. Why do you seem so happy?

MC: I didn't think that there'd still be trains running for a station this run-down!

Just then, a gust of wind blew into the empty station, filling it with white mist.

I could make out the vague shadow of a train amid the fog as it silently slid into the station.

Sariel: Our ride is here.

He handed me a hard ticket, the destination printed on it had long since faded into a blur, seemingly obscured by time itself.

The retro train silently stopped before the platform where only the two of us stood. Its raven green exterior exuded a mysterious vibe.

Suddenly, an excerpt of what I'd previously read in that ancient book popped into my mind…

❖☆———————————★❖

"Qingyun Lake is isolated from the world; there are no usual trodden paths leading up to it. There, dwells thousands of ancient woodland spirits, all in human form, happy and content."

❖☆———————————★❖

Sariel stepped on the steps leading up into the cabin. Looking at his back, I suddenly felt my heart clench.

Could it be that those woodland spirits that the ancient book spoke of… are all part of the Spirit Tribe, just like Sariel? But if so, then just who was he going to look for down at Qingyun Swamp?

Sariel: What are you standing around for?

MC: I have a question about this Qingyun Swamp place. Is this where the Spirit Tribe lives?

Sariel: Yes. Why? Regret it now?

MC: Nope!

I had a peculiar feeling the moment I stepped onto the train that this trip in search of someone would be one that far surpassed the realms of "normal".

❖☆————— ⊹ For Light & Memories⊹ —————★❖

Previous Part: (Prelude) | Next Part: (Chapter 1)