Chapter 45: Autumn Deep in Yunmeng

(I)

Yunmeng Mountain is renowned for combining the majesty of Mount Tai, the perilous steepness of Mount Hua, the marvels of Mount Huang, and the grace of Mount Emei. It is hailed by the people of Beijing as the "Little Northern Huangshan."

A full day is required to hike up to the summit. To conserve everyone's physical energy and considering the excessive time a hike would demand, Huang Qiong decisively chose to take the shuttle bus and the cable car.

The asphalt road traveled by the shuttle bus is known as the Orange Highway. It begins at the mountain gate of the Yunmeng Mountain Scenic Area and ends at the 520 Valley of Love, spanning a total length of seven kilometers. Walking this distance on foot would take at least three hours, but riding the shuttle bus makes it much easier.

As the most scenic mountain road in Yunmeng Mountain, it features numerous cultural and natural landscapes along the way. Visitors can see the ruins of ancient Great Walls built during the Northern Qi and Ming dynasties, with the Ming Dynasty section being the best preserved. Entering the canyon section, one can admire the mountains and valleys, gazing at the magnificent and majestic Yunmeng Mountain, which exhibits the unique loftiness and uprightness of northern mountain ranges.

Halfway along, the shuttle bus passes the Great Wall Viewing Platform, but it does not stop. The driver explains that the shuttle bus will only make a brief stop on the return trip down the mountain.

After a dozen minutes, the shuttle bus arrives at Wanglong Slope. The group gets off here to take in the mountain views. Wanglong Slope connects the Heilongtan Scenic Area with the Yunmeng Mountain Scenic Area. Looking north, one can see the secluded canyons of Heilongtan, while to the east, the azure waters of the Miyun Reservoir stretch into the distance.

They walk upward from Wanglong Slope to reach the starting point of the Yunmeng Mountain Cableway. Connecting the 520 Valley of Love and Qingkong Ridge, the cableway is over 2,500 meters long, with an elevation gain of more than 600 meters. Each cabin on the cableway has a maximum capacity of eight people, so they split into two groups. Bian Xiaoqi, Qin Ke, Tian Ge, Zhang Fang, Zheng Yutong, Huang Qiong, and Yu Chuan shared one cabin, while Lin Haidong, Fu Sichen, Tao Jianming, and Jin Chen took the other.

The cable car slowly ascends from low to high. The bright sun shines overhead, and the crisp autumn breeze brings a refreshing coolness, making for a most pleasant experience. Above them is a vault of azure sky, below are lush and secluded ravines, and beside them are towering mountain bodies with exposed massive granite boulders that seem close enough to touch.

Looking down, they spot two lakes, one large and one small, accompanying each other like stars and a moon. Qin Ke identifies them as the Star-Moon Lakes. The lake surfaces are calm and undisturbed, bordered by encircling green pines, winding paths, rainbow bridges, and sparse flowers and trees, with egrets occasionally skimming the water. The shimmering reflections amidst the green mountains and clear waters resemble a fairyland, making this valley feel like a southern landscape set in the northern realm.

Qingkong Ridge is located on the main ridge of Yunmeng Mountain, upon which the Lingyun Viewing Platform is built. This is the prime location for visitors to observe mountain peaks, bizarre rocks, canyons, and the Miyun Reservoir, allowing them to fully experience the poetic realm of "standing at the very peak, one sees all other mountains as mere mounds." Standing on the Lingyun Platform, the surrounding scenery of mountains and water is captured in a single glance. Especially the Miyun Reservoir nestled among the rolling hills, where mountains and water complement each other, with misty waves stretching boundlessly into the horizon, creating a breathtaking and picturesque view.

Tian Ge is the busiest person today, seizing every moment to take commemorative photos for everyone. Seeing Qin Ke approach Bian Xiaoqi, she quickly presses the shutter button, capturing the fleeting moment of their silent yet deeply affectionate mutual gaze.

Lin Haidong finds a relatively flat area near the Lingyun Platform, spreads out a large plastic sheet, and asks everyone to take out the food from their backpacks. They sit around in a circle, eating, drinking, and chatting merrily beneath the autumn sun at the summit of Yunmeng.

As Tian Ge is laughing and talking, she suddenly stands up, takes Bian Xiaoqi by the hand, and walks a few meters away.

Noticing that Tian Ge was all smiles just a moment ago but now wears a distressed expression, Bian Xiaoqi asks anxiously, "Little sister, are you feeling unwell?"

"Sister, it's terrible, my period has started. Did you bring any sanitary napkins? I was in too much hurry leaving home this morning and forgot," Tian Ge whispers.

"I didn't bring any either. Wait here for a moment, I'll go ask the other girls." With that, Bian Xiaoqi walks over to Zheng Yutong, Jin Chen, Fu Sichen, and Huang Qiong in turn, whispers a few words into each of their ears, and returns to Tian Ge's side, saying, "Little sister, none of them brought any either."

"Ah? What should I do now?" Tian Ge laments.

Seeing Bian Xiaoqi walking back and forth and whispering with Tian Ge not far away without knowing what has happened, Qin Ke walks over and asks with concern, "Xiaoqi, what's wrong? Do you need my help?"

"This is a woman's matter, you can't help. Don't stay here, go away," Bian Xiaoqi says with a blushing face.

Qin Ke walks swiftly back to the resting circle, grabs his backpack, and returns.

"Why are you back again?" Bian Xiaoqi asks.

Without a word, Qin Ke takes out a plastic-wrapped package and a thermos cup from his bag, hands them to Bian Xiaoqi, and quickly walks away.

Bian Xiaoqi is puzzled about what Qin Ke has given her. She unwraps the plastic bag and finds a pack of sanitary napkins inside. Pleasantly surprised, she smiles and tells Tian Ge, "Little sister, you don't need to worry anymore."

Having witnessed the entire scene, Tian Ge blushes and whispers, "Brother-in-law is so thoughtful. Down the mountain, he provided us with sunscreen, sun hats, and sun umbrellas; and up here at the summit, he brings these items and hot water. He really is a timely rain. Sister, I'm so envious of you."

"Little sister, do you still have time to idle and joke? Drink some hot ginger water first, and then hurry to find a secluded cluster of trees." Having said this, Bian Xiaoqi cannot help smiling again at the thought of Qin Ke's thoughtfulness.

Huang Qiong and Zheng Yutong walk over and stand at a vantage point to keep watch for Tian Ge. Bian Xiaoqi leads Tian Ge to a secluded spot dense with woods and shielded by massive boulders.

A short while later, Qin Ke sees the three of them walking back, chatting and laughing. Tian Ge does not dare to meet his gaze, while Bian Xiaoqi gives him a grateful look.

(II)

After spending over an hour on the Lingyun Platform, cleaning up their picnic trash and placing it into the trash cans, they begin their descent down the mountain.

They take the cable car back down and then transfer to the shuttle bus.

Passing by the Great Wall Viewing Platform, the shuttle bus stops for about ten minutes, allowing them to view the Great Wall on Yunmeng Mountain at close range.

There are ruins from two different eras of the Great Wall within the Yunmeng Mountain Scenic Area. One section was built during the Longqing reign of the Ming Dynasty: the bricks are neat, the seams are tight, the beacon tower walls are intact, and the battlements are clearly visible, exuding an exceptionally profound sense of history. The other section was built during the Tianbao reign of the Northern Qi: the walls were constructed using local materials, built from unhewn rubble, lime, and rammed earth. Currently, only piles of gravel, ash debris, and remnants of broken walls remain. The continuous crumbling walls beneath the beacon tower represent the best-preserved Northern Qi Great Wall in existence today. From the cross-section of the city wall, one can witness its former majesty and the traces left by history.

In the autumn wind, looking at these dilapidated ruins vanishing into the verdant, rolling mountains, one cannot help but sigh at the ruthlessness and vicissitudes of time.

Stepping out of the main gate of the Yunmeng Mountain Scenic Area and boarding the minibus, it is already 3:00 PM in the afternoon. Because they rode the cable car and shuttle bus up and down Yunmeng Mountain, no one feels tired, and their spirits remain very high.

Qin Ke guides the driver, Shan Guoqiang, toward their lodging for the evening, Penghewan.

In the bus, aiming to liven up the atmosphere, Bian Xiaoqi smiles and says, "Thank you, Manager Huang, for your thoughtful arrangement, allowing us to climb the steep and lofty Yunmeng Mountain today, gaze into the misty expanses of the Miyun Reservoir, and view the crumbling ruins and historical vicissitudes of the ancient Great Wall at close range. I believe everyone must have profound feelings about such charming autumn scenery. Why not strike while the iron is hot and express our thoughts? What do you say?"

"I support this," Tian Ge says first.

"Then let's start with our lively and cute classmate Tian Ge," Bian Xiaoqi proposes.

Tian Ge does not decline, and after a brief moment of thought, she recites a five-character quatrain:
"Vault blue like washed water, clouds white like spun thread.
Sunlight gilds a thousand ridges, autumn soars ten thousand miles skyward."

Tian Ge is truly a talented scholar from Peking University. Every line rhymes and is neatly structured, and the artistic conception is also beautiful. Everyone applauds and cheers for her.

Bian Xiaoqi continues, "The arts student has won the first crown. Now it's the turn of the science students."

Everyone simultaneously looks at Yu Chuan. Huang Qiong also looks forward to Yu Chuan displaying his literary talent.

Yu Chuan smiles and says, "This is my first time writing a poem in my life, and today feels like taking an exam. Thank you all for your support; I will boldly give it a try."

After pondering for a moment, he recites a matching five-character quatrain:
"Slope grass fades to pale withered yellow, rock vines wear light russet attire.
Who painted this colorful autumn? The wind heralds the coming night frost."

Everyone applauds for Yu Chuan together. Huang Qiong looks at Yu Chuan with an expression of admiration.

With the atmosphere stirred up by Tian Ge and Yu Chuan, everyone's eyes turn collectively to Zhang Fang.

Zhang Fang is also inspired and says with a generous smile, "Brother Yu is accomplished in both literary and martial arts; how could I dare fall behind? I have a deep impression of the Great Wall of Yunmeng Mountain and strong feelings about it, so I will offer my clumsy piece." Following that, he recites a seven-character quatrain:
"Autumn clarity wraps around the Yan Mountains, layered green forests mask the heavy passes.
Climbing high to gaze at the shadow of the Great Wall, it already coils like a dragon among the mountain ridges."

"Well done!" Zheng Yutong shouts first, an expression of excitement on her face.

After enthusiastic applause from everyone, Qin Ke seizes the opportunity to say, "Now let's welcome science student Director Zheng Yutong to the stage."

Zheng Yutong hurriedly waves her hands, blushes, and says, "Qin Ke, I don't know how to write poetry. Please don't put me on the spot."

Lin Haidong teases, "Director Zheng, you have a Peking University scholar sitting right next to you; why not call for reinforcements?"

With no other choice, Zheng Yutong blushes and looks at Zhang Fang. After Zhang Fang whispers a few words into her ear, Zheng Yutong gathers her courage and says, "Thanks to Dr. Zhang's guidance—he praised the Great Wall, and I will praise the Miyun Reservoir. Please forgive me for making a fool of yourselves." She clears her throat and recites a seven-character quatrain:
"Misty waves mirror the water girt by green banks, colorful feathers fly in pairs in unison song.
Perched upon the branch, double wings fold tight, the slanting sun sets in the west, knowing not where to return."

As soon as she finishes reciting, Bian Xiaoqi immediately says, "Splendid," and stares at her with a smiling gaze.

Sensing the implication in Bian Xiaoqi's look, Zheng Yutong suddenly understands, blushes deeply with shame, and buries her head between the two rows of seats.

Everyone turns to look at Zhang Fang again. Zhang Fang acts as if nothing is amiss, calmly accepting everyone's meaningful gazes.

Then Bian Xiaoqi says, "Now it's Manager Huang Qiong's turn."

Huang Qiong smiles and says, "Director Bian, I am also a science student."

"You can be a science student, and even more so a literature student. Come on, dear Manager Huang," Bian Xiaoqi says with a smile.

Huang Qiong hastily casts a plea for help toward Yu Chuan. Following Zhang Fang's example, Yu Chuan whispers a few words into her ear.

After hearing it, Huang Qiong loses her usual brisk manner and stammers hesitatingly. After a long while, she recites:
"Autumn breeze brings coolness as the setting sun slants, accompanying each other to climb high on foot and carriage.
Who cares about the colors of water and mountains, hearts solely waiting for the colorful sunset clouds."

Having finished, she also blushes deeply and does not dare to raise her head.

Qin Ke immediately praises, "Wonderful!" and gives Yu Chuan a thumbs-up.

Next, Qin Ke turns to Lin Haidong and says, "Science student Lin Haidong, please."

Lin Haidong smiles and says, "Classmate Qin, you know me; please spare me. I'm no good at poetry, but singing is no problem. I'll save my energy for singing tonight." With that, he turns to look at Fu Sichen, who immediately responds, "Why are you looking at me? I can barely protect myself; I can't save you." Her words make everyone burst into laughter.

Fu Sichen says to Qin Ke, "Supervisor Qin, I don't know how to write poetry either. I will definitely perform a dance tonight. You should let Jin Chen do it instead."

Before Qin Ke can speak, Jin Chen quickly chimes in, "I don't know how to write poetry either, and I only know how to dance."

Tao Jianming immediately follows up, "I can't write poetry either. I can sing."

Thus, Qin Ke is the only science student left. Everyone looks at him, anticipating his recitation.

Qin Ke smiles and says, "When I was a child, listening to Liu Lanfang's storytelling *The Generals of the Yang Family*, I often heard the term 'The Sixteen Prefectures of Yanyun.' I looked it up online yesterday and learned that right beneath our feet is Danzhou, one of the Sixteen Prefectures of Yanyun. Today's tour of Yunmeng Mountain allowed me to see the overlapping ranges of the Yan Mountains and the winding Great Wall, letting me physically experience the perilous strategic importance of this place and understand why the Han and Hu nationalities repeatedly fought over it. I will borrow the scenery to reflect on history." With that, he recites a five-character regulated verse:
"Land of strife between Hu and Han, the Sixteen Prefectures of Yan and Yun.
Rebellions of vassal warlords in Sui and Tang, Yanmen hatred in Liao and Song.
Layered peaks rise to prop up the sky, broken walls of the Great Wall remain.
A thousand years of beacon fires disperse, monuments and gates look up at past romantic glory."

Tian Ge is the first to applaud and cheer, whispering to Bian Xiaoqi, "Sister, is Qin Ke a literature student or a science student?"

Bian Xiaoqi smiles and says, "In front of science students, he is a science student. In front of literature students, he is a literature student. If not for the arbitrary judgment of his middle school teacher, he should have been your senior schoolmate."

Through a single poem, Qin Ke fully expresses the history and vicissitudes of the Sixteen Prefectures of Yanyun. It is both heroic and grandiose, as well as brilliantly literary. Zhang Fang and Yu Chuan are also astonished by his rich historical knowledge and literary talent, praising him inwardly.

Finally, it is the turn of the literature student, Bian Xiaoqi. Everyone anticipates an even more brilliant poem from her.

Bian Xiaoqi smiles and says, "Today, climbing Yunmeng Mountain and viewing the northern scenery has made me very happy. Having the fortune to meet all of you makes me even happier; I can truly say this trip has not been made in vain. I have already witnessed everyone's resonant and talented poems, and tonight we will enjoy everyone's singing and dancing, making it feel as though I've suddenly returned to my university days. Inspired by this, I have clumsily composed a poem to the tune of *Xiangsi* (Yearning), hoping everyone will remember this autumn day at Yunmeng Mountain and frequently recall the new friendship we have forged here." Finished speaking, she begins to recite:
"A patch of red, two patches of red,
Red dyes the smoke tree and maple thicket, autumn deepens on Yunmeng.
Watching for returning geese, counting returning geese,
Yearning lingers long within the jade lattice, a smile blooms in dreams."

Qin Ke immediately says, "Wonderful."

Everyone applauds together, feeling that Bian Xiaoqi has voiced their innermost thoughts. Huang Qiong and Zheng Yutong, in particular, look at Bian Xiaoqi with smiling eyes, their distinct gazes brimming with the exact same sentiment.

The minibus heads west along the Luxin Road, once again passing through the Hengqingen Tunnel. At the exit of the tunnel, a branch road slopes down to the right. Qin Ke guides the driver, Shan Guoqiang, to make a right turn downhill, winding left and right several times along the asphalt road until descending to the lowest point of the Baihe River Valley.

On the left side of the road lies a riverbed dozens of meters wide, carrying the ceaselessly flowing waters of the Baihe River. The river water fills half of the riverbed, journeying forward alongside the highway. On the right side remains the towering mountain body, blocking the view.

It is already past four o'clock in the afternoon. Looking left, the setting sun has moved to the mountaintop on the left bank of the Baihe River, casting large shadows across the river valley. Looking right, the afterglow of the setting sun illuminates the upper half of the right mountainside, dyeing the mountain body with a layer of golden yellow.

After traveling a few kilometers forward, the minibus spots a small village with curling smoke from cooking fires, where dozens of residential houses sit on the right bank of the Baihe River. This is Pengheyuan Village.

Bian Xiaoqi and her group's final destination for today, Penghewan, has arrived.