Siyan and Nianli continued to excitedly discuss their expectations for the journey. They imagined the beauty of Jiangnan, the picturesque waterside towns, the whitewashed buildings with black tiles, and the boats that crisscrossed them. They also fantasized about tasting all sorts of delicacies: besides candied haws, the sweet osmanthus cake, the tender beggar's chicken... Each imagination excited them, and laughter echoed throughout the carriage.
As the carriage moved forward, the outline of the prime minister's residence gradually disappeared from sight, but the figures of the family members and the deep family affection were forever engraved in the hearts of Su Jinli and her family. With their family's blessings and expectations, they set out on an unknown journey. What awaited them was an adventure full of surprises and challenges, and this journey would become the most precious treasure of their lives.
For the rest of the journey, the carriage moved steadily along the official road. The roadside scenery unfolded before their eyes like a flowing scroll. Golden rice paddies swayed gently in the breeze, resembling a golden ocean. In the distance, rolling hills formed a striking contrast against the blue sky and white clouds. Su Jinli and her family, immersed in this beautiful natural scenery, felt particularly relaxed.
Si Yan suddenly pointed to a group of flying birds outside the window and said excitedly: "Dad, Mom, look, those birds are flying so neatly! Are they going to travel together?" Jiang Yan smiled and replied: "Yes, they are just like our family, embarking on a journey together. Birds accompany each other and take care of each other, so that they can fly farther. We should also be like them and unite as a family." Si Yan nodded as if he understood, but the excitement in his eyes did not diminish at all.
Nian Li pulled out a picture album from her small bag, which she had prepared specially before leaving. She opened the album, pointed at the various delicacies depicted on it, and said to Su Jinli, "Mom, when we get to Jiangnan, I want to eat this, and that..." Su Jinli looked at her daughter's adorable appearance and couldn't help but laugh. She said, "Okay, okay, when we get to Jiangnan, whatever you want to eat, Mom will buy it for you."
Before I knew it, the sun was setting, and the horizon was painted with a brilliant sunset glow. Like an overturned paint box, the sunset glow blended red, orange, and purple, adorning the entire sky with a dreamlike quality. The carriage, illuminated by the sunset glow, cast a long shadow, like a beautiful silhouette painting.
Su Jinli and her family decided to rest for the night in a nearby town. As the carriage slowly pulled into the town, the bustling scene on the streets immediately caught their eye. The streets were lined with stalls selling snacks, handicrafts, and all sorts of novelties. Si Yan and Nian Li excitedly jumped out of the carriage, holding Su Jinli and Jiang Yan's hands, eager to explore this unfamiliar yet fascinating place.
They first came to a snack stall, which was filled with a variety of delicious foods, the aroma of which was fragrant. Su Jinli bought some local specialties, and the family sat on small benches on the street, happily savoring them. Si Yan mumbled as he ate the cakes in his hand, "It's delicious, even better than the ones at home!" Nian Li ate a bunch of grilled meatballs with big mouthfuls, nodding in agreement.
After finishing their snacks, they browsed the handicraft stalls. Su Jinli, reminded of Su Qingyao by the rouge box she'd given her, chose a beautiful handkerchief to take back as a gift. Jiang Yan, in turn, selected an exquisite pipe for Su Xiang, hoping he'd like it. Si Yan and Nian Li each picked out a small toy and held it with joy.
That night, they checked into an inn in the small town. Though small, it was clean and tidy. Su Jinli and her family gathered in a room, sharing their experiences of the day. Siyan recounted the novelties he had seen, while Nianli excitedly showed off her new toys. Jiang Yan and Su Jinli watched the children's happiness, their hearts filled with joy.
In this unfamiliar town, Su Jinli and her family experienced a unique atmosphere. They knew this was just the beginning of their journey, with more surprises and challenges awaiting them. This day's experience would become a beautiful memory, a companion as they continued on their journey.
Late at night, moonlight streamed through the window onto the floor, creating a layer of silver frost. Su Jinli and her family drifted off to sleep in this warm atmosphere. In their dreams, they continued their beautiful journey, greeted by even more vibrant scenery and endless joy.
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