Chapter 1998: Liuhe Manor

Liuhe Manor was steadily taking shape, with both the upper and lower sections of the mountain estate already constructed. Every detail was meticulously attended to, with completion expected by year’s end.

The main courtyard was now inhabitable, offering Qiao Xuan and her companions a comfortable place to stay for a few days.

Despite it being the prime season for planting and animal husbandry, Qiao Xuan couldn’t shake off her concerns about leaving them unattended.

On this particular day, they set out quietly with a small entourage.

The road leading from the official route to Liuhe Manor had been funded by Qiao Xuan herself. It was her first time walking along it since its completion.

The road was impressively wide, accommodating the passage of two carriages with ease.

In accordance with Qiao Xuan’s specifications, the road surface was covered with a layer of gravel, compacted by massive rolling stones to minimize the roughness typical of dirt roads.

Despite the durability of a dirt road, it was prone to developing potholes of various sizes over time, especially after exposure to the elements. Additionally, it was susceptible to water accumulation.

A gravel road offered superior resilience in these regards.

Resistant to the elements and facilitating faster drainage, the gravel surface promised quicker drying, even in the face of wind and rain.

Trees were planted along both sides of the road, spaced evenly to create a symmetrical appearance.

Approximately five miles along the official road, the landscape transitioned to pine trees, followed by Yinxing trees further ahead.

The Yinxing saplings, each the size of an egg, already towered over human height. Tall and slender with sturdy main stems and long, delicate branches, they were a vibrant sight in late spring as their leaves unfurled. Though still young, they exuded a vitality that promised eventual shade and shelter from the sun.

Empowered by Qiao Xuan’s influence, these trees would grow at an accelerated rate, transforming the road significantly within just two years.

The mountainside was dotted with farms, sparking Qiao Xuan’s excitement at the prospect of staying there. She marveled at the advanced facilities and expansive vistas. From her vantage point, she could admire the starry skies at night and revel in the misty mornings, basking in the beauty of the rugged wilderness.

However, Shao Yunduan gently suggested, “Perhaps it’s best to stay at the foot of the mountain. Climbing up and down multiple times a day can be quite exhausting, don’t you think?”

Though Qiao Xuan hadn’t considered this aspect, his words prompted her realization that ascending the mountain would indeed be time-consuming and laborious. Grateful for his insight, she chuckled nervously. “You’re right! I hadn’t thought of that. In that case, I’ll stay at the foot of the mountain. It’s much more convenient!”

It was a shame; there was something special about living on the mountain.

Seeing the longing in Qiao Xuan’s eyes, Shao Yunduan offered a solution. “We can spend the night on the mountain before we leave and return home the following day.”

Qiao Xuan’s face lit up with joy as she eagerly agreed.

The manor at the mountain’s base had been anticipating their arrival and was fully prepared. Songshi personally led his men to receive them, offering warm greetings before guiding them to the main courtyard. Along the way, he provided updates on the villa’s progress, noting that some areas were still under construction.

Qiao Xuan nodded, instructing Lixia to ensure that visitors didn’t disturb the ongoing construction sites.

After checking in with Songshi, she strolled to the farmstead and spent time with Anan, refraining from venturing further.

Anan, nearing nine months old, displayed newfound mobility, eagerly exploring her surroundings. With a gleeful smile, she proudly presented Qiao Xuan and Shao Yunduan with handfuls of green foxtails, delighting in her discoveries.

The next day, Nanny and the others were still playing with Anan in the manor, while Shao Yunduan was going out with Qiao Xuan.