[Light and Night Event] Sariel's 2022 Birthday Event Story 04: Bonfire Night + Phone Call || 光与夜之恋 齐司礼生日： 千山净色・篝火夜宴

You may consider reading previous parts from the links below:

Prologue | Part 01 | Part 02 | Part 03 | Part 04 + Phone Call (this post)

For this part of the story, you can start watching the video recording from this timestamp:

Finally arrived the destination...

It's nighttime, and we have finally arrived a meadow. There are many tents scattered across the vast meadow, just like the white pearls in the night skies.

Jangji led us to a tall yurt, opens the felt curtain at the entrance and invites us in.

Jangji: A-ma went to the hillside to take care of Gammu pola, she'll probably be back a little late.

We entered the yurt after him. The decors in vibrant colors are not different from general herdsmen, and the embroideries and woven fabric hung on the walls are unique as well.

Jangji lights up the stove in the middle for once again, and served us two cups of hot tea.

You: Thank you.

The jacket I brought with me in a rush isn't waterproof, and it has became damp throughout my entire day's journey. With the sudden drop in temperature at night, there's basically no way for it to keep me warm.

I held onto the cup of hot tea, and finally felt some warmth after a long time.

Noticing my movements, Sariel turns around to look towards Jangji.

Sariel: May I ask if you have a thicker jacket?

Jangji becomes a little stunned, realizing something right after, and quickly nodded.

Shortly, he brought two sets of clothings for us.

Sariel: Thanks.

The fabric of the robe handed to me is thick and heavy. The motif on it are also extremely gorgeous. Out of my career habit, I can't help but to take a couple more looks at it.

Jangji: You both can get changed first, I'll get something for everyone to eat.

You: We'll help out later too.

Jangji: No need, you are both guests. Also, a-ma exhorted me, that I should serve Mr. Nine Tail well when he arrives.

With that being said, there's no way for me to say anything more either. So I've decided to get changed quickly, then head out to see if there are anything else I could help around with.

Jangji went out, so I carried the robe to the back of a curtain, and Sariel got himself changed outside the curtain.

Although I've studied these kind of apparel before, but I am still a little lost when it comes to wearing them.

On the other side of the curtain, however, sounds of rustling fabric could be heard. Just remembering Sariel is being on the other side makes me subconsciously fluster.

It then became quiet for a few seconds, and a voice sounded from the other side.

Sariel: Are you having trouble wearing it?

You: Eh?

Sariel: I was asking, are you having trouble wearing these type of clothings? Otherwise why haven't you been making any sounds for so long?

Sariel: If you need help... you can let me know.

I was grabbing onto the collar, but was immediately stunned from what I've heard, that I've completely forgotten Sariel couldn't see me at all, and could only shake my head while being all flustered.

You: No need, I'll be done soon!

Sariel didn't say much either, and only made a sound in response.

Sariel: Mm, then I'll head out to have a look.

By the time I frantically get myself changed and walked out of the yurt, there is already a giant bonfire lit in the middle of the meadow, where the bright flames almost brightened the night sky.

Many Erdas have gathered by the bonfire, where songs and laughters weaved together, just like a grand feast in the bonfire night.

You: This setup isn't made to welcome us, right...?

I subconsciously began searching for Sariel's figure in this unfamiliar environment.

Very quickly, I found him with the help from the flame's brightness.

Sariel is donned with a white, long-sleeved robe, where the sleeves for his outer robe are over his waist, with a string of jades hung before his chest, that there's a wonderful feeling upon sight.

He's lowering his gaze, a little spaced out as he stares at the round bronze plate in his hand, and the lights from the bonfire dyed a golden sheen over his drooping hair and lashes.

In a trance, it feels like there's a god who spares his gaze to pity over every insignificant being in this world.

You: Sariel...

I called out to his name softly. There's still quite some distance between us, that a soft voice like this feels like it'll disperse in the night breezes as soon as it is voiced out.

But on the next second, where it was as though we had tacit, Sariel lifts his gaze and looked towards me.

The milky way is clearly visible in the sky, and the golden red flames are burning brightly in the wilderness, where the lights from the flames are dancing all over him, from his hair, to his body.

It was also as though the warmth of the flames have seeped into his gaze, that his gaze became tender.

Sariel: Why are you so slow?

I lifted the hem of the robe, and ran towards him in a few steps.

You: It's my first time wearing this kind of apparel after all.

I tidied my collar, looked at the bronze plate he hasn't managed to keep in time, and I can't help but to feel curious about it.

You: I've been wanting to ask you earlier, but what's this item that you're holding?

Sariel: You can perceive it as a form of talisman.

Sariel: This is something Gammu gave me many years ago, you can say that it's a proof to enter KunLun.

He then hands the bronze plate to me. I received it carefully, turning it as I examine the patterns carved onto the plate in detail.

You: This lotus pattern is so beautiful, the one who made it must have really skillful hands.

Sariel: You can keep it if you like it.

 You: Eh?

I looked towards Sariel in surprise, but he doesn't look like he's joking at all.

You: No need for that, I just wanted to have a look out of curiosity... Moreover, if it's a "token", you can't just simply gift it out, right?

Sariel: It's indeed the token to access KunLun. But didn't you also say that you wanted to come here with me again next time?

Sariel: Then in that case, whether the token is with me, or if it's with you, there aren't any difference to begin with.

Sariel: Moreover, as a talisman, it can also bless you with a safe and smooth-sailing life.

Without expecting him to say this, I stunned, and became uncertain on how I should answer him for a moment.

Just then, we heard Jangji's voice calling out to us to have our meal.

Sariel: Let's go.

By the time I returned to my senses, Sariel has already took a step forward. In a late realization, I stared at the bronze plate in my hand, and blinked.

You: I have yet to even give out my present, but why am I receiving a gift instead...

It feels like the warmth from Sariel's fingertip still lingered on the bronze plate. I smiled as I placed it into my chest, and chased after Sariel's footsteps.

-- I hope this "talisman" can bless the both of us with a safe, and smooth sailing life.

It's a bountiful feast by the night bonfires, and the enthusiasm from the Erdas have also dispelled my bits of worries that I still had earlier.

The barley wine* in my cup is now emptied. I placed the wine cup away, and the breezes in the autumn evening makes me even tipsier.

*Specifically, orge du Tibet (ནས་/ Nas/ Hordeum vulgare subsp. vulgare) that is mainly found in cold highlands such as Tibet, Sichuan, etc.

The surging tipsiness and sleepiness makes me rub my eyes from time to time.

Sariel: I find you oddly persistent at times. Just go to bed if you're sleepy.

You: No, I still have to wait a little more, wait...

It was probably because he mentioned the word "sleepy", that I feel my head becoming a little heavier, and began tilting towards a side.

Until a pair of hands held me, and allowed me to steadily lean onto his shoulder.

Sariel: You don't have to wait for Jangji's mother with me, just get some rest.

You: Hm? I'm not waiting for Jangji's mother...

You: Actually, when I came back to find out his mother isn't here, I was even feeling a little happy about it.

Sariel paused, and he seems to have understood what I meant too. He no longer speaks, only to take another look at the barley wine in his hand.

Perhaps due to tipsiness, I closed my eyes and muttered as I leaned onto Sariel's shoulder.

You: Sariel... what are we coming here for?

You: Although you said that there aren't anything dangerous, but I feel that...

You: If it's something that requires you to travel this far to handle it, it must be something that can't be solved easily.

You: Hearing your conversation with Jangji makes me even more certain of it. But... I don't want to ask for further details.

You: Because I think, at least on the day of your birthday, at this hour of 12AM, you can temporarily put those complicated matters aside.

You: Only to think about your birthday, and to enjoy the simplest form of joy.

Sariel did not speak, and unsure of how long has passed, I heard a very soft response from somewhere close within reach.

Sariel: Mm.

The cold fragrance of the wine wafts along with his breath, and the starry skies seems to have also became blurry because of my tipsiness.

I have never seen a starry sky like this, where the twinkling stars look like fireflies all over the skies.

I lowered my head to look at my wristwatch, and it's less than a minute until 12AM.

"Click". As the minute hand meets the hourly hand, I straightened myself up.

You: Happy birthday, Sariel!

I happily raised my wine cup to bump into Sariel's. Unable to dodge, he could only touch his cup with mine.

You: This is my present for you! Ta-da--

I carefully took out a golden amber pendant in my palms, and held it towards him.

You: I made this amber myself.

A soft flower petal is solidified in the center of the round amber, and complemented by the light from the flames, the pure crystal looks like it's glowing as well.

Sariel stares at it for a good while, and finally reaches an arm to receive it and place it in his palm.

Sariel: Is that a petal of Princess of the Night inside? 

You: Yeah! It's epiphyllum pumilum.

You: I wish to gift you the most beautiful moment, and I hope for every second of yours in the future to be the best moments of your life.

I don't have an idea on how much tough times he has been through in eons of his lifetime, but I wish for his future to be filled with beautiful wonders.

Sariel: This blessing is very much like your usual demeanor. So greedy that you're being so specific to the second?

You: Because you don't make wishes, so of course I had to be greedier, so I can help you to make all of the wishes you've missed.

I spoke as if it's the matter of course, and remembering the bronze plate earlier, I pointed at the amber again.

You: You can also treat it as a talisman specially from me, just like the bronze plate earlier.

You: But it's more powerful than the one earlier, not only it can bless you with a safe and smooth-sailing life, it can also bless you to be happy at anywhere and anytime.

Sariel: Only heartless people like you would be happy anywhere and anytime.

You: Then how about I keep staying by your side, and share my happiness with you forever?

I smiled as I continued his words, but I didn't expect to hear an affirmative voice right in the next second.

Sariel: Okay.

Sariel holds the pendant in his palm, where his amber-like golden pupils reflect my figure within.

Sariel: As the "token" of what you've just said, I'll accept the amber.

In the ancient mountains of KunLun, the starry night still remain twinkling.

I gazed at Sariel, and in a trance, there's no way for me to tell if I'm in a dream or in the reality, that it feels like we have also became a part of the ancient folklores.

The bright lights from the flames are just like the golden amber, tenderly shrouding us within.

Time seems to have really froze right at this moment.

Time seems to have really froze right at this moment.

[Phone Call]

Sariel: Are you still awake?

You: Yeah, maybe it was because I had too much barley wine earlier, I'm still feeling a little giddy...

You: Although I'm feeling very sleepy, but I'm also feeling a little excited at the same time, it feels very weird.

Sariel: Someone has finally began feeling unwell, huh?

Sariel: Who was the one who got all noisy and pestering me to give her cup back as soon as I took her wine cup away?

Sariel: Even saying something like "I'm not drunk", and even want to prove it to me by walking a straight line, then ending up wobbling left and right and almost tripped herself.

You: I think I remember a little... Thank goodness you were there to hold me in time, otherwise my face is probably full of weed now.

You: Speaking of it, Sariel, why are you giving me a call? Aren't we just separated by a curtain...

You: Huh, why are you gone?

Sariel: *sighs* I've told you that I'm going to brew some sobering tea over Jangji's place before I left didn't I.

Sariel: I'll go back once it's done.

You: That's wonderful, otherwise my head will definitely burst when I wake up in the next morning.

You: Then, before the sobering tea is done, can you chat with me?

Sariel: What do you want to chat about?

You: There are so many... I can't fall asleep anyway, so I thought of many, many things earlier.

Sariel: It's most likely nothing good if you were to think about it for so long during midnight.

You: You're right, it's true that most of them are things that can't be solved, that I could only feel troubled with...

You: How about we talk about something else instead?

Sariel: If you aren't saying it now, you'll still think about it some time later.

Sariel: Rather than spacing out at the ceiling and be stubborn over it on your own, might as well tell say it out directly.

Sariel: Perhaps it can't be completely solved in the end, but at least, I will listen to all of them.

You: Yeah, actually I'm just... feeling a little scared.

Sariel (in a very tender tone): What are you afraid of?

You: Time...

You: Although I said I wanted to stay by your side and share my happiness with you forever, but I know I can't do it at all.

You: My forever, might be just a short instant to you, right?

You: With this in mind, I suddenly feel the need to seize every second of life, and I'm really afraid that time will disappear meaninglessly just like that.

Sariel: *sighs* It's normal to feel afraid about it.

Sariel: There are very little people in this world who can really be unfazed towards the flow of time.

You: Then what about you, Sariel? Would you feel afraid too?

Sariel: ... I do now.

Sariel: However, it is rather meaningless to only keep being afraid.

Sariel: Do you still remember what you told me last year on this day?

You: What? I have so much to tell you every day...

Sariel: *chuckles* So you do know that you're very talkative, huh.

You: At least not all of them are nonsense... I've definitely said something very logical, that you still remember even after so long have passed.

Sariel: It has nothing to do with the content. I remember everything you said.

Sariel: Back then, you said, human lifespans are actually short*, the longest wouldn't exceed a hundred years, we have to seize the time to leave special memories.

*Reference to last year's birthday call. Refer here.

Sariel: So, no matter how much you squeeze your brains out to ponder and feel troubled over it, they are all only adding more to your troubles.

Sariel: Might as well just doing what you feel like doing, just like how you always do.

Sariel: Although time would not stop for anyone, but memories can last for an eternity.

You: Hm... It's really hard to imagine myself hearing these words from you.

You: But I think you're very correct, I shouldn't be thinking nonsense indeed!

You: I've decided to do just as you say, to execute what's on my mind immediately.

Sariel: What's on your mind?

You: Seeing you, of course.

You: But I'm still feeling a little dizzy, and the yurts around here are all looking about the same, I might not be able to tell the difference...

Sariel: It's the best for you to remain still, just stay there and wait for my return.

You: Is the sobering tea ready?

Sariel: It is still going to take some time.

You: I'll head out in that case then, you can point a direction for me, then I probably won't be lost...

Sariel: No need, I'm almost back to the yurt.

Sariel: We'll look for Jangji to retrieve the sobering tea once you're feeling better.

You: Eh?

Sariel: Executing what's on your mind immediately, no?

Sariel: Just like you... seeing you, is also what I wish to do the most right now.

- The End -

Other parts:

You may consider reading previous parts from the links below:

Prologue | Part 01 | Part 02 | Part 03 | Part 04 + Phone Call (this post)

[Light and Night Event] Sariel's 2022 Birthday Event Story 03: Hills of Mount KunLun || 光与夜之恋 齐司礼生日： 千山净色・昆仑山丘

You may consider reading previous parts from the links below:

Prologue | Part 01 | Part 02 | Part 03 | Part 04 + Phone Call

For this part of the story, you can start watching the video recording from this timestamp:

What are the rustling sounds...?

Upon entering the spruce forest, there are only two types of colors laying before my eyes.

Greens of different shades are combined together, dyed with a golden sheen by the setting sun, exuding a type of peaceful serenity from somewhere distant and quiet.

The backpack I was carrying is already long in Sariel's hand, and he's holding my hand tightly as well.

But even so, perhaps it was due to the high altitude, I could still feel some heaviness in my footsteps after some walking.

Sariel: Let's get some rest.

I nodded, and took a deep breath while supporting myself against the tree trunk beside me, wanting to search for the oxygen bottle in my bag.

Just then, rustles are suddenly heard from the shrubs behind me.

You: Whoa!

Our surroundings were originally very quiet, so the sudden movement scared me, that I subconsciously hid beside Sariel.

You: What's that... It doesn't sound like a bird, is it some kind of beast?

Sariel naturally shields me behind him to capture the rustling sounds from the shrubs.

Sariel: It's not an animal this time.

You: Then what is it? Erda?

He nodded, and only then I let out a breath in relief.

Sariel looks towards the shrubs, and raised his voice slightly.

Sariel: I'm an Erda too.

The shrub moved a little as soon as Sariel finished speaking. It's clear that the other party has heard him, but have no plans to make an appearance to see us.

You: Is it because of my presence? Did he find out that I'm a human?

Sariel: It has nothing to do with you, Erdas here aren't that hostile towards humans.

Sariel closes his eyes, and it was as though he suddenly recalled something, he took out a round bronze plate from his pocket.

Sariel: I did not barge into the barrier without permission, but I was requested to visit Gammu*.

*I'm not sure if this is the right way to type the characters' names, but I'm basically referring from sites like [1], [2] and books like [3]. I attempted the Tibetan name system because of how the environment, attire and traveling style towards KunLun in this story resembles the traveling experience to Tibet. 

Sariel: I have a token as proof.

The surroundings are still quiet, and after some time has passed, sounds are finally heard from the shrubs again.

I was first welcomed with a dark grey pair of wolf ears, then followed by a pair of bright, black eyes.

A youth dressed in a thick robe is carefully hiding behind the shrubs. His gaze is completely fixated onto the "token" in Sariel's hand, and finally spoke after staring for a long time.

Wolf-eared Boy: So you're Nine Tail?

Sariel: Yes.

The youth sniffed a little, and showed a confused expression.

Wolf-eared Boy: But you have a faint smell of an Erda.

Sariel: It's probably... because I've lived too long among the humans.

Sariel made an explanation after pausing a little. The wolf-eared boy seemed to have agreed with that saying, and turned around to look towards me.

Wolf-eared Boy: Then what about you? Are you a human?

You: I'm n...

Out of reflex, I wanted to deny it, but I remembered Sariel saying that the Erdas here are not hostile towards humans. So rather than hiding my identity, it might be better if I'm more honest about it.

So I've simply nodded.

You: I am. Although we might not be the same kind, but I am not hostile towards Erdas. I've also met many Erdas in the past...

I tried my best to explain myself in hopes to quickly build trust with the boy, but unexpectedly, he only blinked in a blur, and blurted a sentence.

Wolf-eared Boy: It's my first time seeing a human in such a large size...

Huh? Large size? Is he talking about me?

I am at loss of words being in a daze, and even Sariel stunned for a moment, but chuckled right after.

Yet, on the other side, the wolf-eared boy still continued speaking.

Wolf-eared Boy: You're taller than me, you're very mighty-looking! Ah, no, a-ma* taught me not to describe girls with an adjective like this...

*A regular Tibetan parent term is a-ma for mother and a-pha for father, pola for grandfather, and mola for grandmother

As though he has just realized that he has said something wrong, the boy quickly waved his hands, and the ears on the top of his head began shaking in panic too.

Wolf-eared Boy: I mean... Compared to those human younglings that entered the barrier by mistake, you are indeed... larger in size.

You: Haha, thanks for your explanation...

It feels a little odd to be described as someone "mighty" by others for the very first time*, but because of what the boy said, the originally tensed atmosphere became much more relaxed.

*MC are you sure Jesse never described you with that when you two were kids at some point of time...

His gaze travels up and between us, and finally landed onto the bronze plate.

Sariel: Would you like to reconfirm it?

The boy quickly nodded and walked towards us. Upon confirming the token, he lets out a breath in relief, and finally looks completely relaxed.

Jangji: I'm Jiangji. I've been on the watch over here to lead the way for you.

Jangji: A-ma said you haven't been back for many years, so much has changed in KunLun, so she's worried that you might be lost.

Sariel: Yes, thank you.

Jangji waved, turn around and showed us the way.

But only after a few steps taken, Jangji can't help but to look at Sariel again.

Sariel: Do you have any other questions?

Jangji: No! It's just...

After hesitating for a moment, he scratches the tip of his ears.

Jangji: I heard you can help Gammu spo lag, is that true?

Help? I only know we're on this journey to meet an old acquaintance of Sariel's, it's probably this "Gammu" they spoke of, but what's with the "helping" part?

So, I'm also quietly waiting for Sariel's answer. After a pause, he shook his head instead.

Sariel: I don't know.

Not expecting an answer like this, the anticipation in Jangji's eyes gradually dispersed, and the gleam in his eyes seemed to look a little gloomier.

He drooped his head, and only to find his voice again after some time.

Jangji: You can definitely do it. A-ma told me before, that Mr. Nine Tail is very powerful, even more powerful than Gammu pola and Wonjin mola.

*Gammu's name in the story is 甘木 (Ganmu in Pinyin) and . Wonjin文茎 (Wenjing in Pinyin). I can't be 100% certain if the romanizations of any of their names are correct, and I can't tell if they mean the same as what was intended to because I don't actually understand Tibetan, but it also doesn't feel really right to use just the full Han name. Though one thing to point out that they are both Erdas, and their names are plant-related. Gammu's 'Mu' means 'wood' in the Han character, while Wonjin's 'Jing' means 'stem' in the Han character. It's confirmed that Gammu is a plant Erda in his birthday story.

Jangji: So, you can definitely do it.

He spoke so softly, that it sounded as though he's muttering to himself.

Sariel looked sullen too. I have no idea what exactly happened, so I can only hold his hand softly.

In the midst of the lush mountain forest, the evening winds began to rise.

Looks like we've entered somewhere incredible...

Other parts:

Prologue | Part 01 | Part 02 | Part 03 | Part 04 + Phone Call

[Light and Night Event] Sariel's 2022 Birthday Event Story 02: Through the Canyon || 光与夜之恋 齐司礼生日： 千山净色・穿越峡谷

You may consider reading Prologue here, and Part 01 here.

For this part of the story, you can start watching the video recording from this timestamp:

What would there be in the canyon?

When time's approaching the evening, our car has finally stopped outside a somewhat barren canyon.

Sariel: We've arrived.

You: Oh... Is this KunLun? But it looks like there aren't anything around here.

Sariel: No, we still have to go through this canyon. But we can't drive from this point onwards.

After getting out from the car, I curiously examined my surroundings as I stood in the howling winds of the canyon entrance.

Outside the thick barbed wire that surrounds the canyon stands a giant signboard, with a hard-to-pronounce name of the location written on it.

It took me a moment to only link this unfamiliar name to its other name together -- Death Canyon.

You: Sariel, are we really going to walk across this canyon by foot? Isn't it too dangerous?

You: Haven't you seen those rumors on the internet? This place is called "Death Canyon".

You: There were so many people who entered there and never came out, moreover--

Sariel locks the car, and interrupted my speech.

Sariel: The terrains in the canyon is more complex, and the weather in nearby areas changes frequently as well, hence it's indeed easy for ordinary humans to enter this place abruptly.

Sariel: But the reason why there are so much "rumors" on the internet, I suppose the greater cause behind it is the barrier around here that is set up by the Erdas.

Sariel: To humans, Erdas that enter KunLun through the barrier would seem like they have vanished in thin air.

I see. I nodded, but just the sight of those densely-packed barbed wires makes me a little nervous.

Sariel: I didn't know you are usually this timid.

Sariel: Don't worry, as long as you are following me, there won't be any problems.

We entered the canyon through an opening of the barbed wires where jagged slopes are on both sides, that even the wafting winds bring a sense of danger.

I followed behind Sariel in careful steps, and very quickly stopped before a wall of mountain. The hidden cave connects directly to an eerily dark depth, and it seems like I can also hear sounds of gurgling waters.

A blurry ray of light seeps through the top of the cave, and allowed me to barely see the slippery ground under my feet.

Thank goodness I'm wearing shoes that are convenient for walking... Just when I had this thought in mind, suddenly, a hand is reached out towards me.

Sariel: The path is treacherous, you can slow down, and be careful.

Just when Sariel finishes his sentence, I immediately placed my hand onto his palm. The warm hand wrapped around my icy-cold fingers, and allowed my panicking heart to calm down.

We walked for some distance just like that, and sounds of birds flapping suddenly sounded in the darkness, bringing a gust of winds and flew straight towards us from above!

I subconsciously grabbed Sariel, about to pull him to dodge away, but I was pulled into an embrace with a greater force.

Sariel shielded the back of my head with his hand, with his voice falling right by my ear, accompanied with his warm breaths.

Sariel: Don't look up for now.

The hand holding mine still hasn't let go, so I can only lean onto his shoulder, and held his hand back even harder.

After a while, the flapping sounds disappeared, and Sariel lets go of me.

Sariel: It was just a few birds, they might've probably been frightened by our footsteps.

You: ... To be scared like this, why are they more timid than I do?

Sariel: Since you're a clumsy bird, so your courage is indeed a little more than general birds.

The voice above me did not conceal the laugh within at all, so I muttered sullenly.

You: You were clearly saying I was timid earlier...

With a short episode, and with a turn, at last, I've finally welcomed the pouring rays of bright light.

Exiting the dark cave, the vast scene is now brightened right before my eyes.

The forest and grass where the river runs across the canyon, where pools of various sizes scattered around, are all glistening in clear, bright sparkles.

You: This place is just too beautiful...

I looked around in excitement as I walked, with a tint glow of light from the woods taking my attention, and to find a golden flower later.

You: Sariel, what flower is that? It has a really special color.

Sariel: Goldfrost flower. But it isn't its flowering season now, it'll be even brighter when it truly blooms.

Sariel: This type of flower only blooms in KunLun, it is greatly tenacious in vitality, that it can even grow on the tallest and the coldest mountaintops.

Sariel: So, it represents "life" in the eyes of the Erdas here.

Upon listening to his explanation, I suddenly feel that the tiny little flower seems to be able to bear great weights, that not only I am feeling overwhelmed with how impressed I am, but also feeling a little saddened for it.

You: It's a pity that I can't see it bloom...

You: Say, can we still come back to have a look when it's time for it to bloom?

Sariel closes his eyes and pondered for a moment before answering me.

Sariel: Let's discuss that again when we have time.

I was originally just simply blurting my mind, but I didn't expect him to not decline it. I was stunned a little, but very quickly returned to my senses, and happily caught up to his footsteps.

While walking by a stream, there are slippery algae growing on the pebbles in the stream. Just when I was hesitating, for once again, Sariel reached out his arm towards me.

Sariel: We're almost there, it's right over there.

Hearing what Sariel had just said, I lifted my head and looked into the distant. A spruce forest like a sea of jade is laid before my eyes, rustling and swaying in the winds.

In that instant, as though a breeze is passing through the bottom of my heart, I began to look forward to it even more.

Let's meet again when the flowers bloom.

Other parts:

Prologue | Part 01 | Part 02 | Part 03 | Part 04 + Phone Call

[Light and Night Event] Sariel's 2022 Birthday Event Story 01: Commemorative Token from Afar || 光与夜之恋 齐司礼生日： 千山净色・远方的纪念

You may consider reading Prologue here.

For this part of the story, you can start watching the video recording from this timestamp:

First station, highland road.

The wide road extends into the endless highlands, where the networks of mountain under the clear skies of Mount KunLun are majestically beautiful, with never-melting frozen rivers glistening in a silvery-white glow.

You: Sariel, hurry and look! The snowy mountain over there is so beautiful!

I am holding the oxygen bottle as I keep snapping pictures of the towering mountains that appears from the sea of clouds.

Sariel: You've already repeated that a hundred times.

Sariel took a glance towards the direction I mentioned, looking unsurprised.

Sariel: Don't bounce around with all that excitement, not feeling dizzy anymore?

You: Since when was I bouncing around...

Recalling that I almost caught altitude sickness due to my overexcitement from the views of snowy mountains, I let out a soft cough in embarrassment.

You: I actually ate some Rhodiola* before departure, I've also made many other preparations in advance.

*A Chinese herbal medicine that is said to help you adapt more towards your surrounding environment. 

You: I was just overly excited just now... I'm all good now!

Sariel and I took a plane ride to somewhere nearby where we are currently at, then rented an off-road vehicle, and we are now driving along the road headed towards Mount KunLun.

There were many times I've imagined traveling with Sariel, to live in seclusion for a few days in the depths of a bamboo forest, or to listen to the tides by the seaside...

But none of what I've imagined would be anything like this, where we are now sitting in a car, on a road trip in the highlands.

Many unknown and beautiful legends lie in this mountainous land where signs of human life are scarce, so I can't help but to look forward to them.

Sariel looks much calmer compared to my excitement, that I can't help but to recall the time he invited me a few days ago.

Sariel: We're heading to the hills of Mount KunLun, it's to see an old acquaintance.

I was in a blur for a moment right when I first heard this name, then repeated after him in uncertainty.

You: Hills of Mount KunLun?

Sariel nodded, and before I could completely return to my senses, I subconsciously continued.

You: Then that's somewhere really far away indeed...

It all felt so unreal until the plane took flight from GuangQi and landed on this highland after flying across half of the nation.

You: How about we get down from the car to take a couple of photos? Since there aren't many cars around after all.

Sariel: Haven't you been taking photos throughout your way here? Haven't you gotten enough photos?

You: Those are different, the most important souls are still missing from the photos-- and that'd be us!

Sariel did not respond, but very quickly, he still parked the car by the roadside.

I hopped off the car, stretched my arms and took a deep breath. Sariel walks to my side, and sighed helplessly.

Sariel: We're leaving after we're done with the photo.

You: Okay!

I placed the camera on the bonnet, adjusted the camera angle and set up the timer, then posed with a peace sign after walking somewhere a little far away from it, but only to notice Sariel is still staring into the distant.

You: Sariel, hurry and look at the camera!

He startled slightly, turned around, and the camera clicked just in time.

I took a look at the photo we took, and made a conclusion.

You: Pfft, your expression looks like a passerby that entered the frame by accident.

Sariel frowns. I can already guess him saying something like "delete it" right on the next second, and quickly waved at him.

You: This doesn't count, how about we take another one?

I spoke as I set the camera again, and dragged him to the place I stood earlier.

Sariel: The last one. Also, remember to delete the photo earlier.

I responded him perfunctorily, but I've been thinking of making that photo as a keepsake.

Sariel seems like he's planning to emphasize it again, so I quickly pointed towards the camera, and tugged his sleeve.

You: Don't talk for now, it's almost time for the photo. Three, two, one... cheese!

The camera clicks again, and leaves us with this photo of us.

In the photo, I smiled very brightly, Sariel's lips were just curved up slightly, but it's already way better than the photo earlier.

I carried the camera, and nodded in satisfaction.

Sariel: The sun will set if we're delaying any longer, let's get going.

I took another glance at the skies that are still bright. Other than a herdsmen tent in the distant, there are no longer signs of human life seen.

You: Are we still going into the mountains?

Sariel: Yeah, it's still quite a journey.

You: I've been wanting to ask this earlier, why are your old friends living in places more secluded from one to another?

You: Are Erdas all preferring to live in seclusion like sages?

You: The place you're living in is also very far from the city, it takes up quite a lot of time every time I head over.

Sariel: Then you can choose to not visit my place every other day.

You: Uh, actually compared to places like Rainy Island and KunLun, where you live isn't actually THAT far.

An almost undistinguishable smile blooms from Sariel's lips. He looks into the snowy mountains in the distant, and began explaining to me.

Sariel: Unoccupied and undeveloped areas that maintains its natural habitat contains more vitality, so they are more suitable for Erdas to live in.

Sariel: It's just like how humans in their early days chose to live by the waters, the reasoning behind it are the same.

Sariel: Erdas living in the hills of Mount KunLun probably had very little chance to be in touch with humans.

Sariel: But it's also because of this reason, that they aren't hostile towards humans in comparison to Rainy Island.

You: There's something that I don't understand.

You: If I didn't follow you here in KunLun, I would've thought all Erdas came from Rainy Island.

Sariel shook his head.

Sariel: It's merely a place that was built as the "bridge" for Erdas that were unwilling to give up when they failed in their attempts to blend into human lives.

Sariel: Erdas can be born, and live in anywhere in the world.

Sariel: However, just like humans, a majority of Erdas would choose to live with their kind.

Sariel: Naturally, a settlement like KunLun would eventually form.

I looked at Sariel. He has always been on his own, and he doesn't seem to participate much in his tribal matter either, so I understood that he is definitely not the "majority".

I remembered the stories I've heard from the Classic of Mountains and Seas. Mount KunLun has always been the mountains where Gods reside in, and it was rumored that the God Palace of the HuangDi is also on it.

You: Sariel, is there really a palace for gods on Mount KunLun?

Sariel: What? God Palace? That's just a mythical legend.

You: Okay then...

I regretfully kept the legends that popped out from my mind aside, but with a change of thought, I realized something--

To humans who have short lifespans, the ancient Erdas that reside in Mount KunLun might actually be "God-like" like those depicted in mythical legends.

With this in mind, I turned towards Sariel, who's now by my side.

He looks just like the cold frosts of snow, as though he's just the same as the surrounding towering snowy mountains, standing high above, unreachable in the distant, forever standing at this very moment.

I only knew he has lived for a very, very long time, but how long exactly, is something that I have no idea of, nor it's something that I've ever asked him.

The network of mountains of Mount KunLun were formed by crustal movements over billions of years ago, and how are the existence of the Erdas like throughout the millions of years of human history...?

Sariel: What's wrong? Not feeling well?

I returned to my senses and met Sariel's concerned gaze, then shook my head.

You: It's nothing, let's get going!

While speaking, as though I wanted to toss away the odd thoughts in mind, I quickly walked over and got into the car.

Under the azure skies, the vehicle drives into the depths of the KunLun mountains.

Photos are the best way to commemorate happenings.

Other parts:

Prologue | Part 01 | Part 02 | Part 03 | Part 04 + Phone Call

[Light and Night Event] Sariel's 2022 Birthday Event Prologue: A Promise of a Distant Journey || 光与夜之恋 齐司礼生日： 千山净色・远行之约

Note: The 2022 birthday event formats are different from 2021's. The event is separated into two parts: A 5-part story that includes the prologue, and another 4-part postcard writing snippet. I will work on completing Sariel's birthday event before his 6* card. 

Please do not ask me on when I can update the translations because I am really not in the state to translate as much as usual due to long-term health reasons, unless you're paying me at least 2 days worth of my overtime wages in my full-time job ^^. I will not entertain to questions asking for release schedules anymore so I hope for your understanding on this matter. 

If you're here for Sariel's 2021 Birthday Event Translations instead of 2022, read here:

Pre-Quest Story | Prologue | Episode 01 | Episode 02 | Episode 03 | Episode 04 | Episode 05

Recording of the 2022 birthday event stories are here: 

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Slashing yet another day off the calendar with a pen, it's finally only three days left until Sariel's birthday.

Although he has said that day it isn't his real birthday, but I've still made plans to prepare a surprise for him as I've promised him last year*.

*Refer to his 2021 birthday event

You: I wonder if Little Lizard has already helped me to hide those stuff well...

Sariel dislikes crowds, so I've still decided to celebrate his birthday at his place after numerous thoughts, and even "instigated" QiShe* for help.

*Sariel's "pet" lizard.

In my previous visits to his place, I secretly brought a lot of decorative materials, and asked QiShe to hide them somewhere.

On the day of his birthday, as long as I can look for an excuse to ask Sariel out, I'll be able to seize the opportunity to decorate the living room properly.

I am thinking if I should buy something else for decoration, and just then, my phone buzzed.

You: Sariel?

Why is he suddenly making a call? QiShe haven't exposed me now did he?!

Surprised, I hesitated for a moment, but forced myself to pick up the incoming call.

Sariel: What are you working on?

Hearing Sariel's voice makes me even more nervous.

You: Ah... N- No I'm not working on anything! I'm just at work normally!

I can't help but to cover my face with my hands as soon as I've ended my line. And Sariel paused to my overreaction, and sounded a little doubtful.

Sariel: I'm not here to supervise your work*, why overreacting?

*I haven't translated main story yet but at this timeline he has already resigned from Warson so he is no longer the creative director for this storyline.

Sariel: Being all panicky like that makes you look like you've done some bad deeds indeed.

He did not mention anything about birthday, so looks like QiShe didn't expose me. Having this thought has finally allowed me to calm down.

You: What bad deeds are you talking about, I'm really just seated at my workstation in the office for work, you can ask MaoGe and the others if you don't believe it.

You: I just happened to be thinking about things earlier that I haven't returned to my senses, I'm okay now.

You: Did you call me for something?

Sariel: The candied pear I promised to make for you are done.

Candied pear? I gave it a thought. I think it was mentioned in our earlier phone calls.

*He promised that in one of his calls this year but I haven't translated it.

You: It's already done? Didn't we agree to make them together?

Sariel: A certain someone has been working until midnight and has been in a confused state recently, so even being in the kitchen would only bring chaos.

Sariel: Do you want to eat them? If you don't then I'll...

You: Of course I'd want to! You've already made them, of course I'd eat them, and I'll take eight bowls in a go!

Sariel: I've only made two bowls of them. Buy them yourself if you wanted more.

You: I'm just joking, I can't finish that much either. Shall I head to your place after work?

I recalled the matter I've "schemed" with QiShe, and it's coincidentally an opportunity to discuss the arrangements for the day of his birthday as well.

Sariel: I'll pick you up later.

The sun is setting, and there's only a tint of dawn left in the skies. I walked out of building, and the sight of Sariel standing in the evening afterglow welcomes me right away.

You: Sariel!

I happily ran towards him in quicker steps, and he's already gazing towards me before I could speak.

Sariel (smiling): Running so quickly, I can see that you really wanted to get off work already.

You: What are you talking about... I am passionate with my work, the reason I ran this fast is because I wanted to see you sooner!

I refuted his statement, and in exchange I received a soft cough with a faint tint of redness over his ears.

Sariel: Alright now, get in the car.

It's now peak hours, and the cars are moving slowly in the traffic. But I don't feel anxious at all, and even began humming.

While waiting for the traffic light, Sariel turned around and saw the overflowing joy written all over my face.

Sariel: Are you in a great mood today?

My work are going smoothly recently, and my birthday preparations for Sariel hasn't been exposed, moreover, there's also a surprise of candied pears too.

With this in mind, I nodded.

You: It's still okay, why's that?

Sariel: It's nothing. It's just that you're usually scheming something bad whenever you're this happy.

You: No I wasn't!

I blinked in attempts to show my sincerity. Sariel turned away to look forward, and I wonder how much he believed in what I've just said.

The green light lights up in a perfect time, and the cars began to move forward slowly.

Sariel: It'll be September in a few more days.

Just when I thought Sariel wouldn't inquire any further, he suddenly spoke and mentioned about dates.

My heart throbbed in surprise, and decided to act stupid to bluff him.

You: Yeah, so?

Sariel: I've heard some news today. So I'm heading out tomorrow, and I will probably not be home for the next couple of days.

What he said felt like a bolt from the blue, that my great mood is instantly shattered.

You: Huh? Why so sudden... Are you going somewhere very far away?

Sariel: Yeah, it'll take some time for a round trip.

Then what about his birthday? My feelings became complicated as soon as I thought of the preparations I've made, that I can't tell if I'm feeling surprised or dejected.

The same happened last year. To Sariel, the so-called birthday is merely an ordinary day, so it isn't anything inappropriate to head out to somewhere afar on a day like this either.

I chose to pester him to take me with him last year, then what about this year? Is where he's about to go this time somewhere I could tag along?

Just when I'm pondering how I should bring this topic up, he suddenly spoke.

Sariel: Do you want to go there with me?

I looked up in surprise. Sariel spoke in a calm expression, that I almost doubted my own hearing.

You: You're asking me?

Sariel: Who else could it be? Is there a third person in this car?

Sariel: There aren't much dangers in the place we're heading to, so we can go there together.

You: I see, but why are you suddenly asking me this?

Sariel: The "birthday surprise" you've been secretly planning with QiShe suddenly came to nothing at its final moment. 

Sariel: I guess there'll be a certain someone who has prepared herself to tag along no matter what it takes.

Sariel: So might as well for me to ask you directly.

You: Wait, you've already found out about it? Didn't I told Little Lizard to be sure to keep it as a secret...

Sariel: It's not just his problem, you made it pretty obvious too.

Sariel: You always brought a bag full of things whenever you're coming over, and you would never tell what they are whenever asked, and the bag's emptied for no reason whenever you left.

Sariel: Do you happen to think I'm blind that I can't tell anything from that?

My face instantly burnt from what he has just said. Turns out the entire incident has been completely exposed from the very beginning.

You: Okay then, since you have already found out about it, then it's not a surprise or the sort anymore. So it doesn't feel like a pity if it's cancelled anyway.

You: Moreover... as long as the protagonist is there, birthdays are the same no matter where it's celebrated.

I smiled towards Sariel with some anticipation surging from my chest.

You: Where are we going this time?

Sariel looks at the night traffic, and gazed into the distant.

Sariel: It's somewhere very far away.

Other parts:

Prologue | Part 01 | Part 02 | Part 03 | Part 04 + Phone Call