The Ruins Are Opening

Zhou Lihua’s personal garden was a unique blend of ornate buildings and natural elements. According to her, she had this place built after coming to the Imperial Capital.

The garden was enclosed by a wall and featured numerous rocks, plants, trees, and flowing water. Zhou Lihua led Hou Jingshu down a winding path that was deliberately designed to allow visitors the chance to admire the cornucopia of flora offered.

“This garden never ceases to amaze me,” Hou Jingshu said with a slight smile. “I think it’s even better than the gardens in the royal family’s palace.”

“You’re exaggerating,” Zhou Lihua replied with a smile. “But I am glad you like it. Thank you.”

They passed several qilin statues. As they rounded a corner, a small island with an ornate pavilion in the center revealed itself. After walking over an arched wooden bridge, they arrived at the pavilion, which had no walls but featured ornately-crafted columns and a traditional Shang Kingdom roof.