Warhammer 40K in a box

Chapter 649 Heading to the Capital (10K)

The high-speed train travels smoothly at a speed of 300 kilometers per hour, and the scenery outside the window unfolds like a flowing scroll painting.

The neat farmland gleamed with a soft golden hue in the afternoon sun, while the winding river in the distance, like a silver ribbon, gently meandered around the hills and villages. Occasionally, towns and villages dotted the landscape, their red walls and gray tiles exuding a sense of everyday life, together outlining the unique tranquility and vitality of this era.

At the end of August, the North China Plain was still shrouded in the lingering warmth of late summer. The afternoon sun shone through the car windows, casting dappled shadows and making the interior of the car bright and warm.

The light fell on the tabletops, the armrests of the seats, and even the passengers' clothes, as if everything was covered with a soft filter.

The air conditioning inside the carriage was set just right, completely isolating the heat from outside and creating a comfortable and cool space.

Passengers either closed their eyes to rest or chatted in hushed tones, creating a peaceful and orderly atmosphere. Occasionally, a flight attendant would push a service cart past quietly, offering drinks and snacks; the stainless steel cart reflected the faint light from the overhead lamp.

Chen Xi and Li Jingyi were seated in adjacent business class seats, and the spaciousness provided them with good privacy.

Li Jingyi sat by the window, her gaze sometimes drifting to the rapidly receding scenery outside, and sometimes turning to Chen Xi beside her.

Today she wore a light blue silk shirt, the fabric light and sheer, shimmering with a soft, watery sheen in the sunlight, paired with off-white casual trousers, making her look refreshing and elegant overall.

Her long hair was loosely tied back, with a few stray strands falling casually around her neck. As the carriage vibrated slightly, they occasionally brushed against her cheeks, making her appear even more gentle and graceful.

Chen Xi wore a well-tailored dark linen shirt, which was light and breathable, somewhere between formal and casual. This made him look less sharp than usual and more like a successful young entrepreneur with good taste.

His gaze occasionally drifted to the window, but more often it rested gently on Li Jingyi's face across the way, a faint smile playing on his lips, as if gently drawn by some thought.

He turned his gaze from the window and naturally looked at Li Jingyi, his voice gentle and clear: "Is this your first time going to Beijing to watch the military parade?"

Li Jingyi turned her head, her eyes sparkling as if filled with the sunlight streaming through the window, as if stars had fallen into them.

"Yes, I used to watch it on TV. Although it was very impressive, I always felt there was a barrier between us."

She gently adjusted her posture to face him, her silk shirt rippling with the movement, the buttons at the collar occasionally shimmering in the light.

"To be honest, I was almost stunned when I received your invitation. This kind of opportunity is so rare... I've always dreamed of seeing it in person."

Chen Xi smiled and noticed that she unconsciously gripped the armrest tightly, her knuckles turning slightly white, revealing a hint of excitement beneath her calm exterior.

"It's really not easy."

He paused briefly, as if considering his words, his gaze sweeping across the fleeting scenery outside the window, where distant trees and fields merged into a blurry green blur.

"Actually, I didn't expect to have such an opportunity. For me, this is also a special experience."

Li Jingyi couldn't help but lean forward, asking curiously, "Speaking of which, I've always wanted to ask—how did you get the invitation to the ceremony? It's okay if you can't say..."

Her tone was considerate and natural, with a hint of probing, but without making one feel pressured, as if she were already prepared to accept any answer.

Chen Xi tapped his fingers lightly twice on the armrest—a little habit he had when he was thinking, his well-defined fingers leaving a silent rhythm on the smooth wooden surface.

Looking into her bright yet tactful eyes, he decided to reveal a little of the truth.

“It’s not that mysterious,” he said calmly and reassuringly. “I’ve invested in some technological innovation projects, and this work has received some recognition.”

Seeing that she was listening intently, her eyes fixed on him, he continued to explain, his voice softening: "The development of modern technology requires support from many parties. I have provided support for the research and development of certain technologies through various channels."

He avoided specific names, speaking casually as if he were just talking about an ordinary job: "It's just doing my part. These things aren't often mentioned, but I feel gratified to be able to contribute to the scientific and technological progress of our country."

A knowing glint flashed in Li Jingyi's eyes, as if a puzzle piece had finally found its correct place. A knowing smile curved her lips, her gentle tone tinged with approval: "So this is a recognition of your contributions? Because the projects you invested in are very meaningful?"

"You could say that," Chen Xi nodded, her tone humble and without a trace of arrogance. "But what I did was actually limited. I was mostly lucky to have participated in some valuable work. The ones who truly deserve respect are the researchers who work day and night on the front lines."

His gaze lowered slightly, as if paying tribute to those nameless workers, then he raised it again, his eyes as gentle as ever.

Just then, the train entered the tunnel, and the view outside the window was suddenly swallowed by darkness. The lights in the carriage automatically turned on, reflecting their clear images on the glass.

In the alternating light and shadow, Li Jingyi gazed at Chen Xi's sharply defined profile, and those scattered memories from Hainan resurfaced: his extraordinary reaction speed, his professional handling of the sea snake incident, and the unspoken respect the military personnel held for him.

All these details, when pieced together, vaguely point to a truth that she has not yet fully grasped.

But she eventually gathered her thoughts, a knowing smile playing on her lips, and said calmly and frankly, "So you were involved in these projects too. But thinking about it, you really do always manage to surprise us."

Her gaze was warm and sincere, without the slightest hint of probing or questioning, as if she already knew what to ask and what to remain silent about.

Chen Xi nodded slightly.

He admired this quality in her—keen yet unoffensive, understanding yet not delving too deeply.

In an era where most people know nothing about "another world," her poise and inclusiveness are especially rare.

A gentle tremor stirred deep within him, as if touched by something soft.

"Thank you for understanding," he said sincerely, his voice lower than before. He then changed the subject, his tone becoming more relaxed: "After we arrive in Beijing, besides the military parade, is there anywhere you particularly want to go? We can stay for a day or two longer and explore this ancient city properly. Although it's still hot, the evenings should be very pleasant."

The change of topic lightened the atmosphere.

The two began discussing BJ's attractions and food, as if their previous conversation was just a minor incident during their trip.

Li Jingyi excitedly listed the places she wanted to visit: the red walls and yellow tiles of the Forbidden City, the lake and mountain scenery of the Summer Palace, and the weeping willows and hutongs of Shichahai.
Chen Xi would occasionally add her own suggestions, such as which times of day are the most beautiful and which places are more suitable for evening visits, her tone revealing her familiarity and love for the city.

Their conversation was relaxed and pleasant, with laughter occasionally ringing out in the carriage, like clear water droplets falling into a tranquil lake, creating ripples.

But they all understood that those few words had built a new understanding and trust, and the distance between them had been shortened unintentionally.

The high-speed train continued its northward journey, the soft lighting inside the carriage casting a gentle glow on the two figures, outlining their silhouettes as they talked.

The scenery of the North China Plain outside the window gradually changes. The outline of distant mountains begins to appear, and flat farmland is gradually replaced by undulating hills. Occasionally, ancient beacon towers can be seen standing on the mountaintops, silently telling the story of history.

Beijing, this ancient capital with a history spanning thousands of years, awaits their arrival.

As the sun set, the sky glowed with orange-red light, bathing the carriage in a warm hue. Their figures seemed to be softly enveloped in the light.

The train slowly pulled into Beijing South Railway Station, and a gentle arrival announcement came over the loudspeaker.

As Chen Xi and Li Jingyi disembarked from the high-speed train with the flow of people, a wave of warm air hit them, a stark contrast to the coolness inside the carriage.

Even at the end of summer, Beijing still retained the lingering heat of the day. The temperature on the platform was significantly higher than inside the train, instantly giving one a sense of the dry heat characteristic of northern cities.

Although there were many passengers on the platform, the order was well maintained, and staff could be seen everywhere maintaining order and providing assistance.

The announcements continuously played arrival information and helpful tips, echoing throughout the spacious platform, weaving together with footsteps and the rolling of suitcase wheels to create a symphony of travel.

As soon as they stepped out of the carriage, a young man in a dark suit, with a capable demeanor, came to greet them. His steps were steady and quick, and he soon arrived in front of them, bowing slightly in greeting.

"Mr. Chen, welcome to Beijing. The car is waiting in the parking lot. I'll take you there."

His tone was respectful yet measured. His gaze lingered on Li Jingyi for a moment, and after receiving a slight nod from Chen Xi, he naturally took the luggage from their hands, his movements fluid and silent.

They quickly arrived at the parking lot via a special passage.

An unassuming but substantial-looking black sedan waited there, its body gleaming subtly under the lights, its lines smooth and steady.

The driver was a man in his thirties with a neat buzz cut. Upon seeing them, he immediately got out of the car and opened the door with standard and proper movements. Every detail showed signs of professional training. He wore a moderate smile on his face, neither too warm nor too cold.

"The host arranged the car," Chen Xi explained softly to Li Jingyi, her tone casual as if she were talking about something very ordinary. "They will be in charge of our transportation for the next few days. This will be more convenient and save time."

His gaze met hers, carrying a reassuring quality.

The vehicle drove out of the station and merged into the busy traffic in Beijing.

As evening approached, the setting sun gilded the ancient yet modern city with a golden edge, but the summer heat had not completely dissipated, and the summer clothes worn by pedestrians on the street reminded people of the temperature of the season.

Li Jingyi curiously observed the street scene outside the window. Skyscrapers and traditional buildings appeared alternately, and the wide roads were bustling with traffic. The whole city exuded an atmosphere of vitality and order.

Pedestrians come and go on the sidewalk, some hurrying along, others strolling leisurely, together creating a vivid urban scene.

The wind outside the car window brings the sounds and breath of the city, a vibrant life force flowing in the air.

Their hotel was located near Chang'an Avenue. It didn't look ostentatious from the outside, but once inside, they found the interior to be exquisite and grand. The cool air instantly dispelled the summer heat outside. The front desk staff were polite and professional, and the lobby was quiet and elegant.

A huge crystal chandelier hangs from the ceiling, emitting a soft glow. The marble floor is so shiny it reflects light. The overall atmosphere is both luxurious and warm, with a faint fragrance permeating the air.

“This is the designated hotel,” Chen Xi told Li Jingyi in a low voice as they checked in. His voice sounded particularly gentle in the spacious lobby. “It’s very convenient in every way, and the security is good. We can rest here with peace of mind.”

His gaze swept across the lobby, as if confirming something, before returning to her face with a slight smile.

Their rooms were arranged in two adjacent single rooms.

Chen Xi's room is a small suite with a spacious living room and a comfortable bedroom. From the window, you can see the street scene of Chang'an Avenue in the distance. After nightfall, the light strips formed by the traffic will become a beautiful sight.

Li Jingyi's room was of the same standard, decorated in a warm and elegant style. A bouquet of fresh lilies was thoughtfully placed on the table, emitting a faint fragrance, and the petals even had tiny water droplets on them.

She put down her luggage, gently touched the petals, and unconsciously smiled.

After a short rest, the two decided to take advantage of the early hour and search for local snacks in the nearby alleys.

The warmth of the setting sun had not yet dissipated, but it was already much more comfortable than the scorching heat of the day.

A gentle evening breeze brought a touch of coolness and ruffled the stray hairs at Li Jingyi's temples.

After passing through several bustling alleys, various food stalls have already opened for business, and the air is filled with mouthwatering aromas of food. The smoky fragrance of grilled skewers, the rich aroma of stews, and the fragrance of desserts intertwine to create a unique atmosphere of everyday life in a northern city.

As they strolled along, under a warm yellow streetlamp at the alley entrance, an old man was carrying a straw target covered with candied hawthorns, preparing to pack up his stall.

The crystal-clear rock sugar crystallizes into a crisp shell on the hawthorn, gleaming enticingly under the light, like a string of rubies inlaid in glass. Under the light, you can even see the tiny cracks on the sugar coating, making it extremely tempting.

"Perfect timing," Chen Xi called out to the old master chef, taking two quick steps forward. He then turned back to Li Jingyi with a smile and asked, "One skewer? Or two?"

His eyes gleamed with pleasure in the afterglow of the setting sun, and the curve of his lips was more pronounced than usual.

A smile appeared in Li Jingyi's eyes, and she nodded gently: "Of course."

Her gaze swept over the various candied hawthorns, and she finally chose a string of plump hawthorns with evenly coated sugar. The red fruit and the transparent sugar coating looked particularly tempting under the light.

Chen Xi carefully handed her the candied hawthorn. His fingertips brushed against the back of her hand, and they both paused slightly before casually looking away.

Li Jingyi lowered her head and bit into a hawthorn. The sweet and sour taste melted in her mouth, cool and refreshing. The soft sound of the sugar shell cracking seemed to echo in the quiet evening air.

Her eyes lit up immediately: "It's delicious! The sweet and sour flavors are just right, and the sugar coating is very crispy."

Her voice held a childlike surprise.

Chen Xi also took a skewer, took a bite, and nodded in agreement: "This is an old-fashioned shop; the sugar is cooked to perfection."

A tiny bit of sugar dab on the corner of his lips, but he was completely unaware of it; that glistening speckled on his lips looked unexpectedly adorable.

Seeing this, Li Jingyi couldn't help but chuckle and naturally pointed to the corner of her lips.

Chen Xi was taken aback for a moment, then understood. He wiped away the sugar crumbs somewhat awkwardly, his movements appearing rather clumsy, a stark contrast to his usual composure.

This little incident made the atmosphere between the two more relaxed and natural, as if some unseen barrier had been quietly broken down.

They walked slowly along the alleyway with its blue bricks, and not far away they saw another stall selling roasted chestnuts. Dark, round pebbles coated with glistening chestnuts rolled in an iron pot, and sweet steam rose in the warm air, looking particularly tempting.

The vendor skillfully stir-fries chestnuts in the pan, filling the air with a sweet, caramelized aroma, accompanied by the soft rustling of pebbles against the iron pan, creating a delightful atmosphere.

“Chestnuts are best this season,” Chen Xi said casually, buying a large paper bag that was still warm in her hands. “Try some, but be careful, they’re hot.”

He skillfully cracked one open, revealing a golden chestnut kernel, and then naturally handed it to Li Jingyi first.

The steam from the chestnuts rose from his fingertips, turning into a light mist in the evening air.

When she took it, she felt the lingering warmth of his palm on her fingertips, and her heart stirred slightly.

The chestnuts are sweet and soft, and with the warmth of freshly roasted chestnuts, they taste especially delicious on a cool evening.

The two stood at the foot of the ancient alley wall, sharing a bag of hot chestnuts. They occasionally whispered to each other, saying nothing more than how sweet the chestnuts were and how crisp the candied hawthorns were. But a silent understanding was gradually growing between them.

The streetlights cast their shadows onto the ancient brick wall, sometimes intersecting, sometimes overlapping, as if telling some hidden story.

As the streetlights gradually came on, they stretched and overlapped their shadows.

A subtle sense of intimacy, softer than the summer night breeze, lingered between the two.

Li Jingyi's hair shimmered softly under the light. When she occasionally glanced at Chen Xi, her eyes held an unconscious smile that spread gently like ripples on the surface of water.

As they walked, they discovered a small traditional pastry shop with a window display of various exquisite Beijing-style pastries, including mung bean cake, pea flour cake, and donkey roll. Each piece was small and cute, revealing the craftsman's dedication.

Chen Xi pushed open the door, and a cool breeze mixed with a sweet fragrance wafted in, instantly invigorating her.

"The pea flour cakes here are very famous, would you like to try some?" he asked, turning his head slightly, his eyes gentle and filled with the joy of sharing. Li Jingyi nodded happily.

The shop is decorated in a simple and elegant style, with a few small mahogany tables paired with official hat chairs, old Beijing-style paintings hanging on the walls, and an old-fashioned gramophone in the corner playing soft Peking Opera excerpts.

They ordered a bowl of pea flour cake and a bowl of donkey roll, along with two glasses of chilled plum soup.

The pea flour cake is cool and delicate, melting in your mouth with the unique sweetness of red bean paste; the donkey roll is soft and chewy, with the aroma of bean flour complementing the sweetness of red bean paste; the plum soup is sweet and sour and refreshing, perfectly balancing the sweetness of the desserts, and the water droplets condensed on the cup sparkle under the light.

“This is really refreshing,” Li Jingyi said, sipping her plum soup with satisfaction, her eyes crinkling into crescents. “I didn’t expect Beijing’s snacks to be so plentiful and diverse.”

Her fingertips gently traced the inside of the cup, leaving faint watermarks.

Chen Xi smiled as he watched her enjoy the food, his gaze softening unconsciously: "Beijing's snacks are seasonal; in summer, they're mostly refreshing and cooling. But in autumn, they have different flavors."

His voice sounded particularly gentle against the backdrop of melodious Peking Opera, as if it had also acquired a touch of the charm of the ancient capital.

They sat by the window, where the night was gradually deepening and the streetlights were casting warm yellow light, while inside, the air was cool and the aroma of delicious food filled the air.

The two had a relaxed and pleasant conversation, talking about everything from food and local customs to interesting things in life.

Chen Xi would occasionally make humorous comments, which would make Li Jingyi laugh softly. Her laughter was clear and melodious, like wind chimes in the night breeze.

Their eyes met from time to time, then parted naturally after exchanging a smile. An indescribable tacit understanding and ambiguity flowed in the air, like the gradually spreading night outside the window, gentle and hazy.

When I left the snack shop, night had completely fallen, but the summer night air was still warm and pleasant.

Red lanterns lit up one after another in the alley, casting a warm glow between the blue bricks and gray tiles, outlining the contours of the ancient lanes.

The two strolled side by side, maintaining a just-right distance, neither too distant nor too intimate.

Occasionally their arms would brush against each other unintentionally, each touch feeling like a faint electric current, making their hearts race unconsciously, yet they pretended not to be disturbed and continued their relaxed conversation.

“Thank you for bringing me here,” Li Jingyi said softly, her voice particularly clear in the quiet alley. “It’s much more interesting than dinner in a big hotel. These authentic snacks and this ancient alley have given me a real taste of Beijing.”

Her gaze swept over the traditional buildings on both sides, her eyes filled with admiration and curiosity.

Chen Xi turned his head to look at her, the light reflecting off his eyes in tiny glimmers: "I'm also very happy to be able to share these simple little joys. Often, the most beautiful experiences are hidden in these ordinary streets and alleys."

His tone carried a subtle tenderness, as if he were speaking not only to her but also to himself.

They strolled slowly along the alley, their shoulders occasionally brushing together before naturally separating. This subtle yet intimate connection allowed them to tacitly enjoy the beautiful night.

A gentle summer night breeze carried the sounds of distant streets, yet these sounds were softly blocked by the ancient alley walls, creating a private and tranquil space, as if the whole world consisted only of the two of them and this warm alley.

As they passed a corner, Chen Xi casually nudged Li Jingyi's elbow to remind her to watch her step.

This brief and polite contact startled both of them slightly, but they continued walking as if nothing had happened, though there seemed to be a subtle tension in the air.

Li Jingyi felt a slight warmth where he had touched her, and her heartbeat quickened involuntarily. The feeling lingered, as if she had been gently brushed by a warm feather.

When I returned to the vicinity of Chang'an Avenue, it was already late at night, but the city's vitality had not diminished.

The closer you get to the central square area, the stricter the security becomes. Security personnel can be seen everywhere, all performing their duties professionally and politely, with upright posture and sharp eyes.

The warm summer night breeze gently caressed Li Jingyi's hair. She casually raised her hand and tucked a stray strand of hair behind her ear, a gesture that appeared exceptionally graceful under the lamplight.

Chen Xi's gaze unconsciously followed her movements, a hint of appreciation flashing in his eyes. That gaze was gentle and brief, as if afraid of disturbing the tranquility of the moment.

Finally, they arrived at the west side of the square.

The afterglow of the setting sun has long since faded, replaced by dazzling lights that adorn the ancient city tower with solemnity and splendor. Every outline is meticulously illuminated, showcasing the weight of history and the glory of the era.

There were still quite a few tourists in the square, taking photos under the lights. The warmth of the summer night made more people willing to stay outdoors.

Tourists from all over the country beamed with excitement as they took photos against the backdrop of the city gate and square. The various dialects mingled together, creating a lively nocturne filled with joy and anticipation.

Li Jingyi stopped and stared at the scene before her, speechless for a moment.

The vastness of the square, the grandeur of the city gate tower, the solemnity of the Great Hall of the People, and the towering monument appear even more awe-inspiring in the night.

The lighting was meticulously designed, highlighting the grandeur of the buildings while creating a solemn and sacred atmosphere.

She took a deep breath, as if to etch this moment into her heart forever, her eyes reflecting a dazzling light, like countless stars falling into them.

“It’s hard to imagine what this place will look like tomorrow,” she said softly, her eyes sparkling with excitement and her voice trembling slightly. “Seeing all this, I can feel the strength and prosperity of our motherland. I feel incredibly honored and proud to be able to witness all of this.”

Her fingers tightened unconsciously, as if suppressing the surging emotions within her.

Chen Xi stood beside her, his gaze gently sweeping over the familiar landmarks, his eyes filled with a deep sense of recognition.

For him, the scene before him symbolized the prosperity of his motherland and also carried his deepest emotions.

The warm breeze of the summer night gently blows, bringing the pulse of the distant city and creating a wonderful harmony with the solemn scene before us.

His gaze deepened, as if he were pondering something, and a barely perceptible smile of satisfaction appeared on his lips, a smile that held a weight that only he himself understood.

“Yes, tomorrow’s scene will definitely be spectacular.” Chen Xi’s voice was soft, as if she were talking to herself, but it carried a firm belief. “It is our generation’s good fortune to be able to live in such a powerful country and witness its prosperity and development.”

His gaze swept over the ancient buildings, his eyes flashing with complex emotions—pride, responsibility, and a deep sense of protection, like a flag in the night wind, silent yet resolute.

They strolled along the square, soaking in the special atmosphere.

The streetlights and the red walls and yellow tiles of the ancient capital complement each other, and the modern lighting technology and traditional architectural aesthetics are perfectly combined to create a dreamlike feeling of traveling through time.

Although it was night, the ground still retained the warmth of the day, and the warm touch came through the soles of my shoes, as if the earth itself was looking forward to tomorrow's grand event.

Tourists from all over the country strolled through the square, their various dialects and laughter blending together to create a lively nocturne.

The souvenir stalls were crowded with people, and children ran and played with small red flags in their hands. The atmosphere was festive and joyful, and the air was filled with anticipation and excitement.

Li Jingyi noticed that Chen Xi's gaze would linger on certain buildings for a while from time to time. Each time he noticed these buildings, a complex and unreadable emotion would flash in his eyes, a mixture of pride, responsibility, and a deep sense of worry.

But when she tried to capture it closely, the emotion quickly vanished, returning to its usual gentle state, as if it were just an illusion under the light.

As they passed a viewing platform area undergoing final checks, Chen Xi's gaze lingered for a moment on an inconspicuous marker.

Li Jingyi followed his gaze but only saw ordinary seats and railings, nothing special.

"Is there anything special about it?" she asked curiously, her voice soft in the night.

"It's nothing," Chen Xi said naturally, shifting her gaze and smiling easily. "I was just thinking about where we can sit tomorrow and what angle would be best for the view."

His tone was normal, but Li Jingyi keenly sensed that he seemed to be hiding something, and a hint of something she couldn't fully understand flashed in his usually calm eyes.

However, she considerately did not ask further, but kept the doubt in her heart, like folding up a soft feather.

As night deepens, the entire square and Chang'an Avenue, adorned with lights, display a charm different from that of the daytime, appearing even more mysterious and solemn.

They decided to return to the hotel to rest and recharge for tomorrow's ceremony.

As they walked back along the path they had come from, both of them unconsciously slowed their pace, as if they wanted to prolong this beautiful night.

The warm breeze of the summer night gently caressed the scene, bringing with it the pulse of the distant city, creating a wonderful harmony with the solemn view before us, as if the city were breathing softly.

Back in her hotel room, Chen Xi was just about to wash up when her phone rang.

He glanced at the caller ID; it was a number from Beijing (BJ).

He walked to the window, pressed the answer button, and his gaze unconsciously drifted to the night view of the capital city outside the window.

Although it was night, the city was still brightly lit, showcasing the inexhaustible vitality of this ancient capital, with distant lights stretching to the horizon like stars.

"Hello, Mr. Chen." A professional and polite voice came from the other end of the phone, each word clear and precise. "Let me confirm the arrangements for tomorrow's ceremony with you again. Your vehicle will be waiting in the hotel's underground parking lot at 6:00 AM sharp. Please bring your invitation and original ID. You need to arrive at the ceremony area before 7:00 AM to complete security checks and registration."

Chen Xi listened quietly, his gaze sweeping over the endless stream of car lights on Chang'an Avenue in the distance. Those points of light were like the lifeblood of the city, flowing ceaselessly.

"Understood." He replied simply, his tone calm and without any fluctuation.

"Your seat is in the designated area of ​​the grandstand; the invitation includes a detailed map. Ms. Li Jingyi, who is traveling with you, is seated next to you."

The other party paused, then added in a steady and professional voice, "According to the weather forecast, the temperature will be relatively comfortable tomorrow morning, but it may still be quite hot at noon, so please take precautions against heatstroke. The ceremony will last for a long time, and the organizing committee has prepared drinking water and simple meals for you, but you may also bring some necessities yourself."

"Thank you for the reminder," Chen Xi replied, his gaze becoming distant, as if he could already see the grand spectacle of tomorrow unfolding before his eyes, solemn and fervent.

"Finally, after the parade, an official may wish to have a brief meeting with you. The specific time and place will be notified later. Please keep your communication channels open."

The other party maintained a professional politeness and appropriate distance throughout, like a precisely calibrated instrument, neither too much nor too little.

After the call ended, Chen Xi slowly put down her phone.

He walked to the window, gazing at the fleeting lights of cars on Chang'an Avenue in the distance, his heart filled with complex emotions.

Even on a summer night, Beijing is still full of life. The square in the distance is brightly lit, and the staff must be making final preparations. Every detail is being carefully prepared for tomorrow's glorious moment.

His gaze deepened, as if he had traversed time and space to see the long road this country had traveled and its glorious future.

He felt incredibly gratified and proud to be able to contribute to this peaceful and prosperous era. His emotions were deep and surging, like a flag in the night wind, silent yet resolute.

A moment later, he arrived at Li Jingyi's door and knocked gently.

When Li Jingyi opened the door, she had already changed into comfortable silk pajamas. The soft, close-fitting fabric accentuated her graceful figure, and the collar was slightly open, revealing her slender collarbone.

Her face was flushed from the bath, her hair was still slightly damp, and it exuded a faint fragrance, like jasmine in early summer.

Her eyes shone brightly under the corridor lights, with an inquiring look, and her eyelashes were still damp with moisture.

"Did I disturb your rest?" Chen Xi asked, his gaze softening unconsciously, his voice lower than usual. "I just received a notice that we have to leave at six o'clock tomorrow morning. Although the temperature is still quite comfortable in the morning, it may get quite hot at noon, so remember to wear sunscreen."

His tone was naturally concerned, his gaze swept over her slightly damp hair, and then quickly returned to her face.

Li Jingyi nodded, a grateful smile playing on her lips, a smile that looked especially warm under the light: "I've prepared sunscreen and a light jacket. Is there anything else I should be aware of?"

Her gaze was earnest and focused, as if she wanted to memorize every detail. Her fingers unconsciously adjusted the cuffs of her pajamas, the movement gentle and elegant.

Chen Xi thought for a moment and said, "The security check will be very strict. Besides the necessary documents and your phone, it's best not to bring too many things. The whole process takes quite a while, so you can bring a small thermos with some cold drinks."

He paused, then added, his tone becoming particularly serious, "Tomorrow's scene may be very impressive, so be prepared. That kind of national cohesion and pride can only be truly felt on-site."

His gaze held a solemnity she had never seen before, as if he were entrusting something important.

His last sentence was spoken with particular seriousness, and Li Jingyi couldn't help but smile, her eyes sparkling with anticipation, a light as clear and bright as dew in the morning sun: "You sound like you're really looking forward to it. But I'm already getting excited; just imagining the scene makes my heart race."

Her fingers clenched slightly, as if she could already sense the shock of tomorrow.

Chen Xi smiled as well, without explaining anything. His smile held a profound meaning that only he himself understood.

When he said goodnight, his gaze lingered on her face for a moment longer, and he said softly, "Enjoyed the snacks tonight, goodnight."

His voice was softer than usual, carrying a subtle warmth, like a night breeze brushing against the curtains, gentle and warm.

"Me too, goodnight," Li Jingyi replied, her tone carrying a subtle tenderness.

She stood at the door, watching him return to his room, before gently closing the door with a slow and soft motion, as if prolonging the beautiful night.

Back in her room, Chen Xi stood by the window once more.

The night view of the capital is dazzling. The square in the distance is brightly lit, and the staff must be making final preparations. Every detail is being carefully crafted for tomorrow's glorious moment.

This city, this country, is moving forward with confident and determined steps.

The warm breeze of a summer night gently blows in through the cracks in the window, bringing with it the unique atmosphere of this city—ancient and modern intertwined, solemn and vibrant coexisting, like an old man who has experienced vicissitudes yet remains vigorous, radiating wisdom and strength.

Tomorrow, he will witness the glorious moment of this great era.

With these thoughts in mind, Chen Xi finally prepared to rest and recharge for the important tomorrow.

The soft hum of the air conditioner brought a comfortable temperature to the room, contrasting with the warmth of the summer night outside the window, creating a sense of tranquility.

Before falling asleep, he couldn't help but recall Li Jingyi's satisfied smile as she ate the candied hawthorn. That smile was clear and bright, like the gentlest star in the night sky. The corners of his lips unconsciously curved into a gentle arc, an arc that lingered for a long time.

That night, the two people in the two rooms drifted off to sleep, filled with anticipation for tomorrow and a subtle mix of emotions.

Outside the window, Beijing was still brightly lit, making final preparations for the upcoming grand event.

(End of this chapter)