jdhmnovel Chapter 122 Dzi Beads
Chapter 122 Dzi Beads
To fulfill their dream of visiting Lhasa, Li Fu and Xiao Tao brought their two little gods of wealth, Zhang Tingjian and Zhang Nan, along with Zhang Bei, Xiao Xing, and the adorable panda dog, Abao. Strolling through the streets of Lhasa, sunlight bathed the ancient cobblestones, it felt as if every step was a step into history.
Throughout the trip, Xiao Tao was obsessed with finding a Dzi bead for Xiao Yu. Xiao Yu's yearning for Dzi beads had already planted a seed in Xiao Tao's heart. She knew this was Xiao Yu's most longed-for wish, and she was determined to fulfill it on this trip to Lhasa.
They wandered through a dazzling array of Tibetan handicraft shops, the air thick with the faint aroma of Tibetan incense. Sister Tao's gaze fixed on the counters displaying Dzi beads. Each one radiated a mysterious luster, as if telling a story of ancient legends. However, finding the right Dzi beads of the highest quality is not easy. Sister Tao carefully examined each bead, patiently chatting with the shop owner, inquiring about their origins, meanings, and craftsmanship.
Zhang Tingjian and Zhang Nan, two little fellows, were like two cheerful little birds, running around the shop, always keeping an eye out for the adults. Zhang Bei and Xiao Xing, arm in arm, curiously surveyed their surroundings, occasionally joining in the discussion about selecting Dzi beads. A Bao lay docilely at the shop entrance, his black and white fur gleaming in the sunlight. His adorable demeanor drew many passersby to stop and playfully tease him.
"Sister Xiaotao, how about this Dzi bead?" Zhang Bei asked, picking up a Dzi bead with a unique pattern. Sister Xiaotao took it, examined it carefully, and shook her head slightly. "While the pattern is unique, the color isn't warm enough. It's not what I want for Sister Xiaoyu." They continued searching from shop to shop, a flicker of fatigue occasionally crossing Sister Xiaotao's eyes, only to be replaced by determination.
In between their dzi bead hunts, they also explored Lhasa's famous attractions. Standing before the magnificent Potala Palace, everyone was struck by the architecture's imposing grandeur. Beneath a blue sky and white clouds, the red and white palace walls soared into the heavens, resembling a sacred temple connecting heaven and earth. They ascended the steps, feeling the weight of history and the solemnity of religion. Little gods of wealth, Zhang Tingjian and Zhang Nan, excitedly ran around, touching the ancient walls and resting on the railings to gaze out over the beautiful scenery of Lhasa.
"It's so beautiful here!" Xiao Xing couldn't help but exclaim. Li Fu smiled and nodded, "Yes, this is a city full of charm and mystery. It's really worth the trip to come here." Although Sister Xiao Tao was also moved by the beauty before her, she was still worried about the Dzi beads.
After leaving the Potala Palace, they arrived at Barkhor Street. It was bustling with pilgrims, tourists, and various small vendors. While they were strolling through Barkhor Street, Sister Tao stopped by several small shops selling Dzi beads. Finally, in a corner of an unassuming shop, she found a Dzi bead that caught her eye. It was round and smooth, with clear lines and a deep luster, as if a mysterious power flowed through it.
Excited, Xiao Tao called the shop owner over to inquire about the price. The owner, a kindly Tibetan elder, smiled and quoted a price. Xiao Tao frowned slightly and began bargaining. She spoke sincerely, explaining the significance of the Dzi bead to her friend and hoping for a discount. Touched by Xiao Tao's sincerity, the owner finally agreed to a more reasonable price.
Sister Xiaotao carefully carried the Dzi beads out of the shop, a satisfied smile on her face. The setting sun cast its afterglow across Lhasa, draping the city in a golden veil. Everyone gathered around, looking at the Dzi beads in Sister Xiaotao's hands, and they were all happy for her.
"Sister Xiaoyu will be very happy to see this Dzi bead," Zhang Tingjian said. Zhang Nan nodded in agreement. Li Fu looked at Sister Xiaotao and said, "All the hard work along the way was worth it. You finally fulfilled Sister Xiaoyu's wish."
During their final days in Lhasa, they visited the Jokhang Temple. In the square in front of the temple, believers kowtowed devoutly, their unwavering faith moving. As they entered the temple, the rich aroma of butter tea and a subtle hint of Tibetan incense filled the air. Under the dim light, the Buddha statues stood majestically, the murals exquisitely detailed, and every detail revealed the profoundness of Tibetan culture.
Sister Xiaotao stood before the Buddha statue, silently praying that Sister Xiaoyu would be safe and sound after receiving the Dzi beads, and that all her wishes would be fulfilled. Everyone else, with awe in their hearts, made their own wishes in this sacred place.
After a day of sightseeing, everyone's stomachs were growling, so they decided to try some Lhasa's local specialties. They entered a Tibetan restaurant, its decor rich with ethnic charm. First served was steaming hot butter tea, a perfect blend of milky and tea aromas. A sip, the rich flavor spread across the tongue, instantly dispelling the chill and fatigue.
Next, the highland barley cakes were served. The golden, crispy crust wrapped around the soft highland barley flour, exuding a light fragrance. A bite of it filled the mouth with the aroma of wheat. Then there was the rich, fragrant yak beef stew with potatoes. The yak was firm and well-cooked, while the potatoes were soft and delicious, soaking up the delicious broth. Every bite was intoxicating.
At first, the little gods of wealth, Zhang Tingjian and Zhang Nan, were a bit curious and unfamiliar with these special delicacies, but after taking a bite, they were captivated by the deliciousness and began to devour them with hearty mouthfuls. Zhang Bei smiled as he ate, saying, "This Tibetan cuisine is truly unique. I've never experienced such a distinctive taste before." Xiao Xing nodded in agreement, and even Po seemed captivated by the delicious aroma, wagging his tail happily under the table.
As they embarked on their return journey, each of them was filled with unforgettable memories of their trip to Lhasa. Sister Xiaotao clutched the Dzi bead tightly, as if embracing the precious bond between her and Sister Xiaoyu. Lhasa's sunshine, scenery, culture, cuisine, and faith were deeply imprinted in their hearts, becoming a vibrant chapter in their journeys.
As the distance from Lhasa grew, Xiao Tao's thoughts drifted increasingly toward Xiao Yu. She imagined Xiao Yu's surprise upon receiving the Dzi bead, and her heart was filled with warmth. This trip to Lhasa had become so meaningful because of the search for this Dzi bead. It was more than just a simple journey; it was an unforgettable experience of friendship, aspirations, and spiritual comfort.