Chapter 132: By What Right or Merit

It was already midnight when Fang Nian and Xia Moyan entered District 6. Since the birthday banquet was scheduled for the following evening, they needed to find a place to stay overnight. They checked into the Cloud Pavilion Hotel, which boasted a relatively pleasant atmosphere.

It must be said that the architectural style of District 6 was vastly different from that of District 16. Perhaps because it served as the ancient capital of the Empire, the overall aesthetic of District 6 leaned toward traditional styles. Buildings with pavilions and tiled roofs predominated; while hints of modern design were visible, the district as a whole possessed a more profound charm than District 16.

After settling into the hotel, the two returned to their respective rooms to sleep, exhausted from their late arrival. Perhaps due to the fatigue of the journey, both Fang Nian and Xia Moyan slept soundly, not stirring until noon the next day.

After lunch and a brief rest, Fang Nian retreated to his room to study *The Twenty-Four Chapters of Feng Shui Metaphysics*. The content of the book was profoundly esoteric; without his existing foundation in metaphysics, Fang Nian would have found it impossible to master such a peerless work.

Around 5:00 PM, Xia Moyan knocked on his door. When she entered, she was carrying two oversized gift boxes.

"What is this?"

Xia Moyan tossed one to Fang Nian and smiled helplessly. "Here, put this on."

Fang Nian was taken aback. He opened the box and was instantly stunned. "This is... Hanfu? What’s going on? Aren't we attending a birthday banquet? Why do we have to wear this?"

Xia Moyan shrugged with a sigh. "It’s Old Master Liu’s wish. He is a man of traditional tastes; not only does he love antiques, calligraphy, and paintings, but he is also particularly fond of ancient culture. Liu Huan, the eldest son of Liu Quan, decided to surprise his father by notifying all the guests just recently that the banquet had been changed to a traditional-themed event. Everyone attending the birthday celebration is required to wear Hanfu, which is why we have these outfits."

Fang Nian felt a bit helpless after hearing this, but while the request was unusual, it was understandable. After all, the cultural heritage of District 6 was quite deep, and such an experience would be quite pleasant. After all, who doesn't harbor a secret dream of traveling back in time?

With that thought, Fang Nian took the garments and returned to his room to change, as did Xia Moyan, agreeing to meet in the lobby in half an hour.

Once in his room, Fang Nian opened the box to find a set of white Hanfu, a wig, and a pair of leather boots—*piju*, shoes fashioned from animal hide, which were bulky and warm, designed for the winter months.

Hanfu, short for "traditional clothing of the Han people," also known as Han robes or Huafu, represents the traditional attire and accessory system that evolved naturally from the accession of the Yellow Emperor to the mid-17th century. Centered on the ritual and etiquette culture of the Central Plains, it embodies the unique aesthetic of the Han people, distinct from other ethnic groups. It stands as a testament to the "Land of Rituals and Garments," reflecting the exquisite craftsmanship of weaving, dyeing, and embroidery, and preserving over thirty items of intangible cultural heritage.

As he unfolded the white Hanfu, a spark of excitement ignited within Fang Nian. He had always wanted to try this in his previous life but never had the chance. Now, finally fulfilling that wish, he felt genuinely exhilarated.

When he was fully prepared, Fang Nian locked his door and headed down to the lobby. Along the way, he encountered several young women staying at the hotel; upon seeing him now, almost every one of them looked on with a trace of awe.

It must be said that Fang Nian’s own appearance was quite striking, and dressed in this Hanfu, he was instantly transformed into the image of a graceful, refined gentleman from antiquity.

In his white robes and black hair, flowing freely without restraint, he stood against the antique backdrop of the hotel like a scholar who had stepped out of another era. With a faint, luminous luster to his skin and eyes shimmering with the brilliance of glazed glass, his features were as handsome as a painting—elegant, ethereal, and willow-like in the wind.

Even Fang Nian felt he looked incredibly dashing; how could he not captivate the young women around him?

Upon reaching the lobby, his attire made him an immediate focal point. Many guests gathered around to take photos or ask for a picture with him. Although he didn't particularly care for it, he didn't refuse, knowing he might not get many chances to wear such attire in his lifetime. He handled the guests with good nature, almost appearing as if he were part of the hotel staff.

However, his "duties" were soon usurped. When Xia Moyan appeared in the lobby wearing her own Hanfu, she instantly stunned everyone present, including Fang Nian himself.

Usually, Xia Moyan dressed in professional attire, or occasionally simple long dresses at home. She was always beautiful regardless of what she wore, given her figure and features. But seeing her in Hanfu today, Fang Nian finally understood why ancient monarchs often possessed so many women and were prone to the error of "risking everything for a beauty." Even if he were an emperor, he thought, he would surely make the same mistakes if he had a wife as stunning as Xia Moyan. She was, in the truest sense, a beauty who could topple cities.

Xia Moyan wore a pale blue gown with flowing sleeves made of soft silk and satin. She had a light cloak draped lazily over her shoulders, appearing both languid and charming. Delicate leaves and hundreds of flowers were embroidered on her ethereal sleeves, and the blue silk exuded a sense of cold, noble elegance.

At that moment, Xia Moyan appeared graceful and otherworldly, possessing a light, ethereal aura. With her delicate skin, relaxed demeanor, captivating gaze, rosy cheeks, and a faint smile, she was the epitome of tenderness. Her long hair cascaded down her back like a three-thousand-foot waterfall.

She looked like a peerless beauty stepped directly out of a scroll, drawing every gaze in the room. Even women could not resist her allure; she was truly, breathtakingly beautiful.

"My god, how can such a stunningly beautiful woman exist in this world? I’ve seen her once, and that is enough for a lifetime."

"It’s true. I’ve never seen such a breathtaking beauty. Look at that smile—it’s suffocatingly beautiful. I’m truly in love."

"Love your sister! Don't you see the handsome guy in the Hanfu standing next to her? They are a couple. Just watch from afar; you'll likely only get this one chance in your life."

"Hey, what's wrong with looking? It's not against the law to look. If I can't have her, can't I at least look? I’m going to keep looking."

Fang Nian’s heart was racing. How could he remain unaffected?

"Beauty is beauty, and it truly is a feast for the eyes. I, Fang Nian, what have I done to deserve this?"