Time flies like an arrow, and the Mid-Autumn Festival is here in the blink of an eye. The General's Mansion is decorated with lanterns and colorful decorations, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.

Early in the morning, Lin Wan'er rose and, surrounded by her maids, began to meticulously dress and groom herself. She wore a moon-white silk dress, embroidered with delicate silver thread patterns that shimmered softly in the sunlight, like moonlight spilling onto the hem. A pale blue ribbon cinched her waist, further emphasizing her slender and graceful figure. Her hair was styled into an elaborate updo, adorned with a jade hairpin inlaid with pearls, which swayed gently with her movements, radiating a warm glow.

Xiao Yichen was also dressed in a royal blue brocade robe, with golden cloud patterns embroidered on the hem, making him look handsome, dashing, and imposing. When he entered the room and saw Lin Wan'er, his eyes were filled with amazement and love.

"Wan'er, you look so beautiful today, like a fairy descended from heaven," Xiao Yichen exclaimed sincerely.

Lin Wan'er lowered her head slightly, a blush rising on her cheeks, and said reproachfully, "You're so good at sweet talk."

The two walked hand in hand out of the room and into the courtyard. The courtyard was already filled with lanterns of all shapes and sizes—round, square, octagonal—adorned with exquisite patterns: Chang'e flying to the moon, the Jade Rabbit pounding medicine, osmanthus trees, and more—all related to the legends of the Mid-Autumn Festival. A gentle breeze blew, causing the lanterns to sway softly, their light and shadows intertwining, creating a dreamlike scene.

In the center of the courtyard stood a large round table, laden with ingredients and tools for making mooncakes. Lin Wan'er was overjoyed to see this. She turned to Xiao Yichen and said, "Yichen, let's make mooncakes together today and enjoy the festival."

Xiao Yichen nodded and smiled, "Okay, I'll do whatever you say."

So, the two washed their hands and began making mooncakes. Lin Wan'er was skilled; she first poured flour into a bowl, added the right amount of water and oil, and then began kneading the dough. Her slender, nimble fingers danced across the dough, and soon it became smooth and delicate in her hands. Xiao Yichen watched from the side, not wanting to be outdone. He imitated Lin Wan'er, diligently kneading the dough, his movements slightly clumsy, but still quite skillful.

After kneading the dough, Lin Wan'er divided it into small pieces, rolled them into thin sheets, and filled them with the prepared fillings. She used a variety of fillings, including sweet red bean paste, savory egg yolk filling, and delicious mixed nut filling. Xiao Yichen helped by handing her the fillings, and the two worked together seamlessly, their laughter echoing in the courtyard.

After wrapping the mooncakes, they need to be placed into molds and pressed to shape. Lin Wan'er picked up a mold engraved with the words "May flowers bloom and the moon be full," placed the dough filled with filling inside, and gently pressed it down, and a beautiful mooncake was formed. Xiao Yichen found it interesting and also picked up a mold, wanting to make a pretty mooncake. However, he used too much force, and the shape of the mooncake became a little distorted, which made Lin Wan'er laugh out loud.

"Yichen, your mooncakes are truly unique!" Lin Wan'er teased with a smile.

Xiao Yichen scratched his head sheepishly and said, "This is my first time making mooncakes, and my technique is rather clumsy. I hope my wife won't laugh at me."

The finished mooncakes were placed in the oven to bake. While waiting for the mooncakes to bake, Lin Wan'er and Xiao Yichen sat on a stone bench in the courtyard, sipping fragrant tea and enjoying the surrounding scenery. The air was filled with the aroma of mooncakes and the fragrance of osmanthus blossoms, making them feel refreshed and relaxed.

Before long, the mooncakes were baked. The golden, crispy crust emitted an enticing aroma that made one's mouth water. Lin Wan'er couldn't wait to pick up a mooncake, take a small bite, and the sweet filling burst in her mouth, filling her with a taste of happiness.

"Mmm, these mooncakes are delicious. They're so different when you make them yourself," Lin Wan'er said contentedly.

Xiao Yichen also picked up a mooncake, tasted it, and nodded in praise: "It is indeed delicious. Wan'er's cooking skills are getting better and better."

Night fell, and the bright moon hung high in the sky, like a giant silver platter. A grand Mid-Autumn Festival moon-viewing banquet was held in the garden of the General's Mansion. Tables and chairs were set out, laden with fine wines, delicacies, fruits, pastries, and freshly made mooncakes.

Xiao's parents, Xiao Yuanshan and Xiao Yichen, sat in the main seats, while Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er sat to the side. The other relatives and friends also took their seats, enjoying the delicious food while admiring the bright moon.

In the garden, a song and dance performance was also arranged. A group of dancers in colorful costumes danced gracefully under the moonlight. Their movements were light and beautiful, like blooming flowers. Accompanied by melodious music, the dancers' long sleeves fluttered, as if they wanted to compete with the bright moon for brilliance.

During a break in the song and dance performance, Mr. Xiao stood up, raised his wine glass, and said, "Today is the Mid-Autumn Festival, a time for family reunion. Thank you to all our relatives and friends for coming to the General's Mansion to celebrate this festive occasion. I would like to offer you all a toast, wishing you all a full moon, family reunion, happiness, and good health."

Everyone stood up, raised their glasses in return, and shouted: "May the moon be full, may people be reunited, and may you enjoy happiness and good health!"

Then, Xiao Yichen stood up and said, "Today is the first Mid-Autumn Festival that Wan'er and I have been married for a short time, and it is also the Mid-Autumn Festival. This is the first Mid-Autumn Festival we have spent in the General's Mansion, which is of great significance. I hope that every Mid-Autumn Festival in the future can be like today, with us living in harmony and reunion."

Lin Wan'er looked at Xiao Yichen with deep affection in her eyes. She knew that Xiao Yichen's words were not only a blessing to everyone, but also an expectation for their future.

In this joyful atmosphere, everyone began to recite poems and admire the moon. A guest who looked like a scholar took the lead and recited: "On the Mid-Autumn Festival, the moon is full, and families are reunited with laughter. The legend of Chang'e flying to the moon has been passed down for thousands of years, and the Jade Rabbit pounds medicine in the Guanghan Palace."

Everyone applauded and cheered. Then, another guest recited: "When will the moon be clear and bright? I raise my cup to ask the blue sky. I wonder what year it is tonight in the celestial palace." This poem by Su Shi, "Prelude to Water Melody: When Will the Moon Be Clear and Bright?", taken on a special charm on this Mid-Autumn Festival night.

Lin Wan'er was also infected by the atmosphere. She stood up and recited: "The moon shines on the General's Mansion, making the feeling of reunion even stronger. Where the osmanthus blossoms are fragrant, let us hold hands and enjoy the peace." Although her poem was short, it expressed her love for the General's Mansion and her determination to spend the future with Xiao Yichen.

Xiao Yichen looked at Lin Wan'er, his eyes filled with pride and love. He held Lin Wan'er's hand and said softly, "Wan'er, your poem is truly beautiful."

On this Mid-Autumn Festival night, the General's Mansion was filled with laughter, the sounds of reciting poems and appreciating the moon. The bright moon shone down, illuminating this happy family and witnessing the deepening love between Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er in the festive atmosphere.

With clear skies and bright sunshine, it was the perfect time for an outing. Having stayed in the General's mansion for too long, Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er decided to venture out and experience the bustling prosperity of the capital.

That morning, the two rose early and carefully selected their attire. Xiao Yichen wore a moon-white long robe with a black brocade cloak over it, a dark belt cinched at his waist with a warm jade pendant hanging from it, making him appear elegant and dashing. Lin Wan'er wore a light pink silk dress with delicate floral embroidery on the hem, and a white gauze shawl over it, resembling a blooming peach blossom, beautiful and charming.

Accompanied by several maids and guards, they set off from the general's mansion towards the market in the capital. Along the way, the streets were bustling with people. Shops lined the streets, offering a dazzling array of goods, and the cries of vendors rose and fell in a cacophony of voices.

Xiao Yichen held Lin Wan'er's hand tightly, afraid she would get lost in the crowd. Lin Wan'er looked around curiously, her eyes full of novelty and excitement.

"Yichen, look over there, there's a sugar figurine vendor." Lin Wan'er pointed to a small stall not far away.

Xiao Yichen looked in the direction she was pointing and saw an old craftsman skillfully making sugar figurines. He held a small spoon in his hand, scooped a spoonful from the boiled sugar syrup, and then quickly spun it on the cutting board. In no time, a lifelike little rabbit sugar figurine appeared before everyone's eyes.

"Let's go take a look," Xiao Yichen said with a smile.

They walked up to the stall, and Lin Wan'er looked at the exquisite sugar figurines with delight. "Uncle, how much are these sugar figurines?" she asked.

The old craftsman looked up and saw Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er dressed in fine clothes and with extraordinary bearing. He quickly smiled and replied, "Miss, these sugar figurines are five coins each."

Lin Wan'er took the money bag from the maid, took out five coins and handed them to the old craftsman, saying, "Uncle, make one for me."

The old performer took the money and said, "Alright, what kind would you like, young lady?"

Lin Wan'er thought for a moment and said, "Make me a sugar figurine of a young master like him." As she spoke, she pointed to Xiao Yichen.

The old craftsman glanced at Xiao Yichen, smiled and nodded, then began to make his sugar figurine. In no time, a sugar figurine resembling Xiao Yichen was finished. Lin Wan'er took the figurine, looked at it in her hand, then at Xiao Yichen, and couldn't help but laugh.

“Yichen, look, doesn’t this sugar figurine look like you?” Lin Wan’er said with a smile.

Xiao Yichen looked at the sugar figurine, shook his head helplessly, and said, "Wan'er, you always tease me."

After leaving the sugar figurine stall, they continued walking. Suddenly, a melodious flute tune drifted over. Lin Wan'er was drawn to the music, stopped, and looked around to find its source.

"Yichen, this flute music is so beautiful, let's go take a look," Lin Wan'er said.

Xiao Yichen nodded, and the two followed the sound of the flute. At a street corner, they saw a young scholar sitting there playing the flute. The scholar was dressed in a blue robe, with a handsome face and an elegant demeanor. The flute in his hands emitted a faint glow, and as he played, beautiful melodies echoed in the air.

Lin Wan'er and Xiao Yichen stood there quietly, listening to the beautiful flute music. When the music ended, Lin Wan'er couldn't help but step forward and say, "Young Master, your flute playing is truly wonderful, like heavenly music."

The scholar looked up and saw Lin Wan'er and Xiao Yichen. He quickly stood up and bowed, saying, "Thank you for your praise, young lady. I was just playing a tune to relieve my boredom."

Xiao Yichen stepped forward and said, "Young Master's flute skills are so exquisite, you must have put in a lot of effort."

The scholar humbly replied, "You flatter me, sir. I am merely smattering the music."

Lin Wan'er asked, "Young master, what is the name of this piece of music?"

The scholar replied, "This piece is called 'Shadows in a Dream,' and it was composed by me."

Lin Wan'er exclaimed, "Young master is truly talented, to be able to compose such a beautiful piece of music."

After exchanging a few words with the scholar, Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er left. They continued to stroll through the market, seeing all sorts of interesting things, such as exquisite handicrafts and strange trinkets.

Before they knew it, it was noon. Their stomachs began to rumble, so Xiao Yichen took Lin Wan'er to a restaurant for lunch. The restaurant was bustling with people. They found a window seat on the second floor and ordered some of their signature dishes.

Before long, the dishes were served one after another. There was fragrant roast duck with crispy skin and tender, juicy meat; there was sweet and sour carp with excellent color, aroma, and taste, the carp was beautifully presented, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, and had a delicious sweet and sour flavor; there was also refreshing and delicious cold vegetable salad, a variety of vegetables combined together, which was nutritious.

Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er enjoyed their meal while admiring the street scene outside the window. Suddenly, a commotion arose downstairs. Curious, they looked down and saw a thug and his henchmen bullying an old man selling vegetables.

"You old bastard, how dare you block my way! I'll teach you a lesson!" the bully said viciously.

The old man was so frightened that he begged for mercy: "Sir, please, spare me. I'm just a vegetable vendor, I accidentally blocked your way."

The bully ignored him and kicked over the old man's vegetable stall, scattering vegetables all over the ground.

Upon seeing this, Xiao Yichen was instantly enraged. He stood up and said to Lin Wan'er, "Wan'er, wait for me here. I'll go down and take a look."

Lin Wan'er nodded and said, "Yi Chen, be careful."

Xiao Yichen, accompanied by several guards, descended the stairs and approached the bully. He looked at the bully coldly and said, "Why are you bullying an old man here?"

Seeing Xiao Yichen's extraordinary attire and imposing demeanor, the bully felt a little intimidated, but still forced himself to remain calm and said, "Who are you? You'd better stay out of my business!"

Xiao Yichen sneered: "I am Xiao Yichen. How dare you bullies run rampant in this capital city!"

Upon hearing Xiao Yichen's name, the bully's face turned deathly pale. He knew that Xiao Yichen was the young general of the General's Mansion, highly skilled in martial arts, and that he was no match for him.

"Young General Xiao, I know I was wrong, I will never dare to do it again," the bully hurriedly begged for mercy.

Xiao Yichen said, "If you can apologize to this old man and compensate him for his losses, I will spare your life. Otherwise, I will not let you off easily!"

The bully nodded repeatedly and said, "Yes, yes, I will apologize and compensate for the losses immediately."

After the bully apologized to the old man, he took out silver to compensate him for his losses. The old man was moved to tears and repeatedly thanked Xiao Yichen.

When Xiao Yichen returned to the restaurant, Lin Wan'er greeted him and said, "Yichen, you did the right thing. This kind of bully deserves to be taught a lesson."

Xiao Yichen said, "In this capital city, there are still many bullies who harass the people. As the young general of the General's Mansion, I must maintain the security of the capital and protect the safety of the people."

Lin Wan'er looked at Xiao Yichen with eyes full of admiration and love. She knew that Xiao Yichen was not only a loving husband, but also a righteous hero with a heart for the world.

After lunch, Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er continued their sightseeing in Kyoto. They came to an ancient temple. Incense smoke curled upwards, and the sound of bells rang out melodiously. They entered the temple and saw various Buddha statues enshrined inside. The statues were solemn and dignified, inspiring awe in everyone.

At the temple, they also met an old monk. The old monk had a kind face and deep eyes. When he saw Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er, he put his hands together and said, "Amitabha, you two benefactors have come here today, you must have a connection with the Buddha."

Lin Wan'er said, "Master, we just came to the temple to visit and experience the tranquility of this sacred Buddhist site."

The old monk smiled and said, "Although this temple is small, it contains boundless Buddhist wisdom. If you two have time, you might as well calm your minds and listen to the Dharma; perhaps you will gain some insights."

Xiao Yichen said, "What you say is absolutely right, Master. However, we have some matters to attend to today, so we will come to listen to the Dharma another day."

The old monk nodded and said, "It's alright. If you two need anything in the future, you can come to the temple to find me at any time."

After leaving the temple, the sun was already setting in the west. Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er, filled with a sense of accomplishment and fond memories, embarked on their journey back to the General's Mansion. This day's outing had deepened their understanding of each other and strengthened their bond.

As autumn deepened, the maple leaves in the General's Mansion gradually turned fiery red, resembling burning flames in the autumn breeze, adding a touch of warmth and celebration to the entire mansion. On this day, the General's Mansion hosted a grand family gathering, with members of the Xiao family arriving from all over to gather together.

Early in the morning, Lin Wan'er rose and, with the meticulous care of her maids, began to dress and groom herself. She chose a deep red brocade dress, embroidered with exquisite gold thread patterns that shimmered in the sunlight, exuding nobility and elegance. She styled her hair into a magnificent updo, adorned with a gold hairpin inlaid with a ruby, the ruby ​​sparkling brilliantly like a dazzling star. For her makeup, she applied only light powder, her eyes radiating gentleness and liveliness.

Xiao Yichen watched Lin Wan'er's busy figure, his heart filled with love. He walked to Lin Wan'er's side, gently took her hand, and said, "Wan'er, there's no need to be so nervous. Today is just a family gathering, and we're all family."

Lin Wan'er raised her head slightly, looked at Xiao Yichen, and said, "I know, but I just want to leave a good impression on the elders of my family."

Xiao Yichen smiled and comforted her, "Wan'er, you are gentle, kind, and talented. They will definitely like you."

Once the two were ready, they went together to the main hall. The hall was already bustling with activity; the family elders sat in the seats of honor, while the younger generation stood in order on either side. Xiao Yichen's grandfather, Old Master Xiao, sat in the center. Although he was over seventy, he was still vigorous, his eyes radiating authority and wisdom. Xiao's father, Xiao Yuanshan, and mother stood to the side, their faces bearing kind smiles.

Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er entered the main hall and first bowed to their grandfather. Xiao Yichen clasped his hands and said, "Grandson Yichen, with his wife Wan'er, pays respects to Grandfather. May Grandfather enjoy abundant blessings and good health."

Lin Wan'er curtsied slightly: "Wan'er greets Grandfather and wishes him good health."

Grandpa Xiao looked at Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er, nodded with satisfaction, and said, "Get up. You two are newly married and look very loving. Very good."

Then, they greeted the other elders one by one. The elders looked at Lin Wan'er and nodded in approval, very satisfied with their new daughter-in-law.

After the greetings were completed, everyone took their seats. The maids served exquisite tea, snacks, and fruits, and everyone enjoyed the food while chatting happily.

Grandpa Xiao cleared his throat and said, "Today's family gathering is for two reasons: first, to allow everyone to get together, and second, to help Yichen and Wan'er formally integrate into the family. Yichen, as the young general of the General's Mansion, you bear the heavy responsibility of the family. You must work even harder in the future and not slack off."

Xiao Yichen stood up and said respectfully, "Grandfather, rest assured, I will do my best and live up to the family's expectations."

Grandpa Xiao nodded and said, "Yes, I'm relieved to hear that. And Wan'er, you are now a member of the Xiao family. You must support each other with Yichen and manage the family affairs well."

Lin Wan'er stood up and bowed, saying, "Grandfather, Wan'er will do her best to fulfill her duties."

Afterwards, the younger generation of the family began to perform, adding to the joyful atmosphere of the gathering. Some recited poems and painted, showcasing their talents; some played musical instruments, producing melodious tunes; and some performed martial arts, demonstrating their agile figures.

Watching these wonderful performances, Lin Wan'er couldn't help but feel admiration for the cultural heritage and family cohesion of the Xiao family. She turned to Xiao Yichen and said, "Yichen, your family is truly full of talented people."

Xiao Yichen smiled and said, "Yes, the Xiao family has been passed down for many years and has always paid attention to the cultivation of its members, which is why it is so prosperous today."

During a break in the performance, Madam Xiao stood up and said, "Today, at this family gathering, I also have some good news to announce. Wan'er has been a member of the family for some time now, and I find her gentle and virtuous, very suitable for the position of head mistress. From today onwards, the management of the General's Mansion will be entirely handled by Wan'er."

Everyone applauded and congratulated her. Lin Wan'er looked at Xiao's mother with some surprise and said, "Mother, this... I'm afraid I won't do it well."

Mother Xiao walked to Lin Wan'er's side, gently patted her hand, and said, "Wan'er, you don't need to worry. I will assist you, and I believe you have the ability."

Lin Wan'er nodded gratefully and said, "Thank you for your trust, Mother. Wan'er will definitely do her best."

Next came the family dinner. The table was laden with a sumptuous feast, featuring both delicacies and simple home-style dishes, each one a feast for the eyes and the palate. Everyone sat together, laughing and chatting, enjoying this precious time of reunion.

During the meal, the elders of the Xiao family began to recount the family's history and traditions. The patriarch of the Xiao family said, "Our Xiao family has served the imperial court since our ancestors, and through generations, we have always upheld the principles of loyalty and righteousness. Our family members must prioritize family honor and strive for the family's prosperity."

Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er listened attentively, knowing that they bore the mission of their family to carry on the glory of the Xiao family.

After the dinner, the women gathered together to chat about everyday matters. Xiao Yichen, on the other hand, led the young men of his family to the martial arts arena to demonstrate their skills and exchange military insights.

Lin Wan'er got along well with the women of the Xiao family. She humbly sought advice from her elders on household management and shared her life's interesting stories with her peers. Her intelligence and affability won the affection and respect of the women.

As evening fell, the family gathering gradually came to a close. Members of the Xiao family bid farewell and returned to their respective residences. Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er stood at the entrance of the General's Mansion, watching them leave.

"Wan'er, are you satisfied with today's family gathering?" Xiao Yichen asked.

Lin Wan'er smiled and said, "I'm very satisfied. I felt the warmth and strength of the family. I will do my best to fulfill my duties and protect the Xiao family with you."

Xiao Yichen held Lin Wan'er's hand tightly and said, "With you by my side, I believe we can definitely make it."

In the afterglow of autumn, Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er stood in front of the General's Mansion, their hearts filled with anticipation and hope for the future. They knew that their fate was already closely linked with that of the Xiao family, and they would work together to write their own family legend.