Inside the general's mansion, sunlight filtered through the dappled leaves onto the stone path in the courtyard. Xiao Yichen was handling some military documents in his study, while Lin Wan'er ground ink for him. A tranquil and warm atmosphere filled the space between them.
Just then, the butler hurried into the study, holding an exquisite invitation in his hands, and said respectfully, "Young Master, Young Madam, an imperial decree has arrived from the palace. The Emperor summons you to a banquet in the palace."
Xiao Yichen slightly raised his head, took the invitation, a hint of surprise flashing in his eyes, but he quickly regained his composure. He looked at Lin Wan'er and said, "Wan'er, it seems we need to go to the palace."
Lin Wan'er nodded gently, feeling a mix of nervousness and curiosity. She knew that a palace banquet would be a grand and solemn occasion, requiring meticulous preparation.
So, the two began preparing for their journey to the palace. Lin Wan'er returned to her room and, with the help of her maids, chose her most magnificent palace gown. This gown was made of light blue silk, embroidered with exquisite gold thread patterns, including auspicious dragon and phoenix designs, symbolizing good fortune; and various floral patterns such as peonies, peonies, and chrysanthemums, shimmering brilliantly in the sunlight, showcasing nobility and elegance. The skirt was wide and flowing, making her walk as graceful as flowing water. She paired it with a sapphire-encrusted belt, the deep, bright sapphires perfectly complementing the gown. Her hair was styled into an intricate and elaborate updo, adorned with various precious jewelry, including gold hairpins, hair ornaments, and hair sticks, each piece exquisitely crafted and priceless.
Xiao Yichen donned a magnificent court robe. The robe, made of black brocade embroidered with red silk patterns, signified his status and rank. Gold trim adorned the collar and cuffs, adding to its solemnity. A jade belt, its smooth, lustrous texture and delicate texture, cinched his waist. A black official hat, adorned with a peacock feather, further enhanced his imposing presence.
With everything prepared, Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er traveled to the palace in a carriage. The carriage moved slowly through the streets of the capital, attracting the attention of passersby. Shops and houses on both sides of the street blurred past like shadows as the carriage sped by. Inside the carriage, Lin Wan'er gazed at the bustling scene through the thin gauze window, her mind filled with complex emotions. She both anticipated the grandeur and novelty of the palace banquet and worried about whether her words and actions would be appropriate, and whether they would cause trouble for Xiao Yichen and the General's Mansion.
Xiao Yichen seemed to sense Lin Wan'er's nervousness. He gently took her hand and said, "Wan'er, don't be nervous. I'm here with you, nothing will happen."
Lin Wan'er turned her head to look at Xiao Yichen, a warm feeling welling up in her heart. She nodded slightly and said, "Yes, with you here, I feel at ease."
Before long, the carriage arrived at the palace gates. The palace gates were tall and magnificent, with rows of golden rivets inlaid on the vermilion panels, gleaming brightly in the sunlight. On both sides of the gates stood rows of imposing imperial guards, holding long spears, their postures upright, their eyes vigilantly watching their surroundings.
Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er alighted from the carriage and, led by a eunuch, entered the palace. The palace buildings were magnificent and resplendent. The roofs of the palaces adopted the double-eaved hip roof style, the glazed tiles shimmering with iridescent light in the sunlight. The flying eaves and brackets resembled dragons about to take flight, both dynamic and dignified. The palace walls were adorned with exquisite murals depicting myths, legends, historical stories, and landscapes; each mural was lifelike, as if telling ancient tales.
They walked along a long corridor with a smooth marble floor and various precious antiques and works of art on both sides, including bronzes from the Shang and Zhou dynasties, ceramics from the Qin and Han dynasties, and calligraphy and paintings from the Tang and Song dynasties. Each piece was priceless and dazzling.
Before long, they arrived at the palace where the banquet was to be held. The palace was already bustling with activity, with ministers and members of the royal family taking their seats. In the center of the palace was a huge round table, laden with delicacies, including rare and exotic foods, rare birds and animals, and exotic flowers and fruits. Each dish was a feast for the eyes, nose, and palate, making one's mouth water.
Guided by the eunuchs, Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er found their seats. Just as they sat down, the Emperor, surrounded by his entourage, entered the palace. He wore a bright yellow dragon robe embroidered with nine golden dragons, their claws outstretched and lifelike, seemingly soaring through the clouds. On his head was a crown inlaid with various jewels, which shimmered brilliantly under the lamplight.
Everyone rose and bowed to the Emperor. Shouts of "Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor! Long live the Emperor!" echoed throughout the palace.
The Emperor raised his hand slightly and said, "My beloved ministers, please rise. Today, I have hosted this banquet for two reasons: first, to celebrate this festival with you all, and second, to take this opportunity to discuss some state affairs with you."
After the banquet began, everyone enjoyed the delicious food while watching the song and dance performances. On the stage in the center of the palace, dancers in gorgeous costumes danced gracefully. Their movements were light and beautiful, like fairies descending to earth. The colorful ribbons on their costumes fluttered in the wind, as vibrant as a rainbow. Musicians played melodious music on the sidelines, the gentle and pleasant sounds flowing like a stream into everyone's hearts.
During a break in the song and dance performance, the ministers began to toast the emperor, expressing their loyalty and respect. Xiao Yichen also stood up, holding a cup of wine, and walked to the emperor, respectfully saying, "Your Majesty, I toast you. May Your Majesty enjoy good health and the nation prosper."
The Emperor smiled and accepted the wine cup, saying, "General Xiao, you have rendered outstanding service in defending our territory. Today, you have brought your newlywed wife to this banquet. You are truly a perfect match, a match made in heaven."
Xiao Yichen quickly replied, "Thank you for your praise, Your Majesty. I will certainly continue to serve Your Majesty, even at the cost of my life."
Lin Wan'er also rose and bowed to the Emperor, saying, "Your Majesty, Wan'er greets Your Majesty. May Your Majesty enjoy boundless blessings."
The Emperor looked at Lin Wan'er with a hint of admiration in his eyes and said, "Miss Lin is indeed worthy of being the daughter of the Prime Minister. She is gentle, virtuous, and exceptionally talented. Now that she has married into the General's Mansion, she must do her best to assist General Xiao."
Lin Wan'er respectfully replied, "Wan'er will follow Your Majesty's instructions."
The atmosphere at the banquet gradually relaxed. The ministers began to chat among themselves, discussing matters of the court, literature and art, and anecdotes from the common people. Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er also exchanged pleasantries with the other ministers; their refined and graceful demeanor earned them praise from everyone.
However, behind this seemingly harmonious banquet, a delicate situation was brewing. Some ministers were secretly observing Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er, each with their own agenda. Some were jealous of Xiao Yichen's military achievements and status, while others wanted to use Lin Wan'er to achieve their own political goals.
Halfway through the banquet, a minister suddenly stood up and said, "Your Majesty, I have heard that General Xiao has made great achievements in training the army recently. I would like to ask General Xiao some questions about military matters."
Xiao Yichen understood that this minister was deliberately trying to make things difficult for him, but he was not afraid. He stood up and said, "Please speak freely, my lord."
The minister then raised some pointed military questions, which Xiao Yichen answered calmly one by one. His answers were clear and insightful, which made everyone look at his military talent with new respect.
Then, another minister steered the conversation toward Lin Wan'er, saying, "Miss Lin, I've heard that you are exceptionally talented, skilled in poetry and prose. Why don't you recite a poem for everyone at this banquet to enhance the atmosphere?"
Lin Wan'er was slightly taken aback, knowing this was also a test. But she quickly calmed down, and after a moment's thought, she recited a poem: "A grand banquet is held in the palace, where dragons and phoenixes bring auspiciousness and prosperity. I wish to assist my lord in building a great cause, and with a loyal heart, protect our homeland."
Lin Wan'er's poem not only expressed her praise for the court banquet, but also her support for Xiao Yichen and her loyalty to the country, winning rounds of applause from the emperor and everyone else.
As the banquet continued, various undercurrents emerged. However, Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er remained calm and rational, skillfully dealing with the various challenges and tests.
After the banquet, Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er left the palace under the escort of eunuchs. They returned to the General's Mansion in a carriage, and both of them fell into deep thought along the way.
"Wan'er, you performed exceptionally well at the palace banquet today," Xiao Yichen said, breaking the silence.
Lin Wan'er sighed softly and said, "Yichen, I can sense that the situation in the palace is complex and volatile. We must be more careful in the future and not cause any trouble for the General's Mansion."
Xiao Yichen nodded and said, "Yes, you're right. However, as long as we are of one mind, there is no difficulty that can defeat us."
Lin Wan'er leaned on Xiao Yichen's shoulder, her heart filled with worry for the future, yet also with unwavering faith. She knew their road ahead was long, and many challenges lay ahead, but as long as they worked together, they would surely be able to protect the General's Mansion and contribute their strength to the prosperity of the nation.
In the depths of winter, the trees within the General's Mansion were draped in a blanket of white snow, resembling a world draped in silver. However, beneath this tranquil exterior, an uneasy atmosphere lurked.
Recently, urgent reports came from the border: foreign enemies had invaded, and the border was engulfed in war, plunging the people into misery. As the young general of the General's Mansion, Xiao Yichen bore the heavy responsibility of protecting the country and naturally could not stand idly by. He spent his days in his study discussing military strategies with the strategists of the General's Mansion, studying the enemy's troop deployments and combat characteristics, often working until late at night, leaving him with much less time to spend with Lin Wan'er.
Lin Wan'er saw it all and felt a pang of heartache. She knew Xiao Yichen was under immense pressure, but she also understood that she couldn't hold him back at this time. So, she silently supported him from behind, preparing hot meals and warm tea for him so he could rest during his busy schedule.
That day, Xiao Yichen was discussing military affairs with several generals in his study when suddenly a soldier rushed in, knelt on one knee, and presented him with an urgent battle report. Xiao Yichen took the report, and his expression immediately turned serious.
"General, the enemy's offensive has become increasingly fierce in recent days. Our troops have suffered heavy casualties at the front, and our food and fodder supplies are also running into problems. If we don't take effective measures soon, I'm afraid the situation will become uncontrollable," a general said worriedly.
Xiao Yichen pondered for a moment, then stood up and said with a firm gaze, "Pass on my order to immediately summon all soldiers and prepare for the expedition. At the same time, notify the logistics department to do everything possible to procure provisions and ensure the supply of the soldiers at the front."
"Yes, General!" the generals replied in unison, then withdrew to carry out Xiao Yichen's orders.
Xiao Yichen turned and walked out of the study into the courtyard. He gazed at the falling snowflakes, his mind filled with countless thoughts. He knew that this expedition would face immense challenges, but as the young general of the General's Mansion, he could not back down. He would fight to the death against the enemy for the peace of the nation and the happiness of the people.
Lin Wan'er was very worried after learning that Xiao Yichen was about to go to war. She hurriedly came to Xiao Yichen's side and said, "Yichen, you must be careful on your journey. I will be waiting for you at the General's Mansion."
Xiao Yichen looked at Lin Wan'er, his eyes filled with deep affection and reluctance. He gently held Lin Wan'er's hand and said, "Wan'er, don't worry about me. Take good care of yourself and your family while you're at home."
Afterwards, Xiao Yichen began preparations for the expedition. He donned heavy armor, its scales gleaming coldly in the sunlight, seemingly proclaiming its resilience and power. He picked up his sword, its hilt inlaid with a blue gemstone, which emitted a chilling light in his hand. He led the soldiers of the General's Mansion, assembling them before the mansion's gates.
The gates of the General's Mansion slowly opened, and Xiao Yichen mounted his warhorse, leading his soldiers out of the mansion. Lin Wan'er stood at the gate, watching Xiao Yichen's departing figure, tears blurring her vision. She silently prayed in her heart, hoping for Xiao Yichen's safe return.
Xiao Yichen led his army day and night, finally arriving at the frontier. On the battlefield, smoke filled the air, and shouts of battle shook the heavens. The enemy's camp stretched for miles, their imposing presence overwhelming. Xiao Yichen climbed the city wall, gazing at the enemy's camp, secretly estimating their strength.
"General, the enemy has about 100,000 troops and is well-equipped. Although our army is fighting hard, we are unable to withstand the enemy's offensive due to the disparity in troop strength," a deputy general reported to Xiao Yichen.
Xiao Yichen frowned slightly and said, "How long can our army's food supplies last?"
"Reporting to the general, at the current rate of consumption, we can only sustain this for a maximum of half a month," the logistics officer replied.
Xiao Yichen knew all too well that provisions were the lifeblood of an army. If provisions ran out, morale would collapse, and the consequences would be unimaginable. He had to find a way to solve the supply problem and defeat the enemy within half a month.
Therefore, Xiao Yichen began to readjust his battle plan. He sent out small groups of troops to harass the enemy and disrupt their offensive rhythm. At the same time, he ordered his soldiers to fortify the city's defenses and prepare to meet the enemy's next attack.
In the days that followed, Xiao Yichen led his soldiers in a fierce and arduous battle against the enemy. The enemy's offensive surged like a tidal wave, one wave after another. Our soldiers fought bravely, defending the borders of our motherland with their blood and lives.
However, the enemy's forces were too strong, and our casualties continued to rise. Xiao Yichen looked at his wounded soldiers, his heart filled with grief. He knew that this couldn't continue; he had to find a weakness in the enemy and deliver a fatal blow.
After several days and nights of observation and deliberation, Xiao Yichen finally discovered a fatal weakness in the enemy army. Their supply lines were long and poorly defended. If their supply lines could be cut off, the enemy would be thrown into chaos.
Therefore, Xiao Yichen selected an elite force, which he personally led, and under cover of night, quietly advanced towards the enemy's supply lines. After a fierce battle, Xiao Yichen's troops successfully cut off the enemy's supply lines.
Upon learning that their supply lines had been cut, the enemy army was thrown into disarray. Xiao Yichen seized this opportunity and led his troops in a full-scale counterattack. His soldiers charged towards the enemy like tigers descending a mountain, their battle cries shattering the night sky.
Under our army's fierce attack, the enemy forces suffered repeated defeats. After several days and nights of fighting, Xiao Yichen finally led his soldiers to repel the enemy and win the war.
However, the victory in the war did not bring Xiao Yichen any relief. Looking at the devastation on the battlefield, his heart was filled with grief. This war had claimed countless lives and shattered countless families. He knew all too well that the price of peace was enormous, and he had to work even harder to protect the peace of the nation and prevent such tragedies from ever happening again.
Xiao Yichen led his army back in triumph. Inside the general's mansion, Lin Wan'er, along with her family and servants, had been waiting at the gate for a long time. When she saw Xiao Yichen return safely, tears welled up in her eyes again.
"Yichen, you're finally back." Lin Wan'er threw herself into Xiao Yichen's arms, sobbing uncontrollably.
Xiao Yichen hugged Lin Wan'er tightly and said, "Wan'er, I'm back. I'm sorry for making you worry."
Afterwards, a grand victory banquet was held at the General's Mansion. At the banquet, Xiao Yichen recounted the course of the war and the heroic deeds of the soldiers. Everyone raised their glasses to toast Xiao Yichen and the soldiers' victory.
In this war, Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er faced immense challenges and difficulties. However, they consistently supported and accompanied each other, overcoming hardships together. This war also made them cherish each other more and strengthened their resolve to protect their country and family.
With the border wars subsiding, the General's Mansion entered a period of relative peace. Having experienced the trials of war, Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er's feelings for each other deepened. They deeply understood the preciousness of peace and cherished the days they spent together even more.
That morning, the gentle sunlight streamed into the courtyard of the General's Mansion. Lin Wan'er, as usual, rose early and took a walk in the garden accompanied by her maid. Lately, she had been feeling somewhat unwell, often feeling weak and drowsy, accompanied by mild nausea. At first, she didn't pay much attention, thinking it was just due to overwork, but as these symptoms became more frequent, a sense of unease began to creep into her heart.
Lin Wan'er strolled slowly through the garden, gazing at the blooming flowers, yet feeling little interest. She gently stroked her abdomen, a strange feeling welling up inside her—could it be…? She dared not think further. Just then, her maid, Cui'er, seemed to notice her unease and asked with concern, "Miss, what's wrong? Are you feeling unwell?"
Lin Wan'er shook her head slightly and said, "Cui'er, I'm not quite sure either, but I haven't been feeling well lately."
Cui'er carefully observed Lin Wan'er's complexion and said, "Miss, you look a little pale. Shall we call a doctor to take a look?"
Lin Wan'er hesitated for a moment, but finally nodded and said, "Alright, then let's ask a doctor to take a look."
Cui'er hurriedly ran to fetch a doctor. Before long, an elderly doctor arrived, led by Cui'er. The doctor carefully took Lin Wan'er's pulse, and a smile gradually appeared on his face.
"Congratulations, young mistress! You're pregnant!" the old doctor said happily.
Upon hearing this, Lin Wan'er was first shocked, then overwhelmed with joy. She could hardly believe her ears; she was actually pregnant with Xiao Yichen's child. "Doctor, is what you're saying true?" she asked excitedly.
The old doctor smiled and nodded, saying, "It's absolutely true. The young mistress's pulse is steady and strong, indicating that she is more than a month pregnant. The young mistress should rest more these days, avoid overexertion, and eat a light diet, paying attention to a balanced nutrition."
Lin Wan'er nodded hurriedly, her heart filled with anticipation and longing for the new life. After the old doctor left, she sat in the room, gently stroking her belly, her eyes sparkling with tenderness. She silently thought to herself that this child would be the fruit of her love with Xiao Yichen, the new hope of the General's Mansion.
As evening fell, Xiao Yichen returned home. He entered the room and saw Lin Wan'er sitting by the bed, her face radiating a unique tenderness and joy. Curious, he sat down beside her and asked, "Wan'er, why are you so happy today? Is something good happening?"
Lin Wan'er looked up at Xiao Yichen, her eyes filled with a happy smile. She took Xiao Yichen's hand and gently placed it on her abdomen, saying, "Yichen, you're going to be a father."
Xiao Yichen was stunned at first, then his face lit up with joy. "Wan'er, is what you said true? We're having a child?" he asked excitedly.
Lin Wan'er smiled and nodded, saying, "Yes, the doctor came today and has made a diagnosis."
Xiao Yichen stood up excitedly and paced back and forth in the room. His heart was filled with joy and excitement; he was about to become a father and shoulder the heavy responsibility of raising a child. He walked to Lin Wan'er's side, hugged her tightly, and said, "Wan'er, thank you. This is our child, our hope."
From then on, the entire General's Mansion was immersed in an atmosphere of joy. Upon hearing the news, Mr. and Mrs. Xiao were overjoyed and immediately instructed the servants to prepare various tonics and baby supplies. Mrs. Xiao personally took care of Lin Wan'er's daily life, showering her with meticulous care.
As Lin Wan'er's pregnancy progressed, her body underwent some changes. Her belly gradually swelled, and her movements became somewhat inconvenient. However, her face was always filled with a happy smile. Every day, she would talk to the child in her womb, tell him about the outside world, and play some soft music, hoping that the child could feel her love.
Xiao Yichen was extremely attentive to Lin Wan'er. He reduced his time away from home, spending as much time as possible with her. In his spare time, he would take walks with her in the garden, enjoying the sunshine and fresh air, telling her about his experiences outside to keep her entertained. He would also personally prepare snacks for her, and seeing her eat happily filled him with satisfaction.
During this time, the General's Mansion also received some guests. Prime Minister Lin and his wife, having learned of their daughter's pregnancy, came to visit. Seeing Lin Wan'er's happy appearance, they were very pleased. The Prime Minister's wife held Lin Wan'er's hand and said, "Wan'er, now that you are pregnant, you must take good care of yourself. If you need anything, please let us know."
Lin Wan'er nodded and said, "Mother, don't worry. Yichen and my in-laws treat me very well. I will be fine."
Prime Minister Lin looked at Xiao Yichen and said, "Yichen, I'm entrusting Wan'er to you. You must take good care of her and the child. If they suffer any injustice, I will not let it go unpunished."
Xiao Yichen quickly replied, "Father-in-law, rest assured, I will do my utmost to take good care of Wan'er and the child, and I will not let them suffer any harm."
Besides the Prime Minister and his wife, many ministers from the court and friends and relatives from the General's residence also came to offer their congratulations. The General's residence was bustling with activity and filled with laughter.
However, behind the joy lay some hidden worries. Lin Wan'er was well aware of the inherent risks of childbirth, especially in an era with limited medical resources. She often felt a sense of fear, but whenever she saw Xiao Yichen's concerned eyes and her family's expectant smiles, she would muster her courage and face the future with determination.
Xiao Yichen seemed to sense Lin Wan'er's worries. He always stayed by her side to comfort her, telling her pleasant things to reassure her. He would say, "Wan'er, you are so strong and brave, our child will definitely be like you. Believe me, everything will be alright."
With Xiao Yichen's comforting words, Lin Wan'er gradually calmed down. She knew that no matter what challenges she faced in the future, as long as Xiao Yichen was by her side, she would have the courage to face them.
As the days passed, Lin Wan'er's due date drew ever closer. The entire General's Mansion was prepared to welcome the new life. Xiao Yichen, in particular, was so anxious that he stayed by Lin Wan'er's side day and night, fearing any unexpected events might occur.
Finally, on a bright and sunny morning, Lin Wan'er's water broke. The General's Mansion was immediately bustling with activity. The maids rushed to fetch the midwife and doctor, while Xiao Yichen held Lin Wan'er's hand tightly, giving her strength and courage.
Lin Wan'er lay in the delivery room, enduring waves of excruciating pain. Sweat beaded on her forehead, but her eyes remained resolute. She knew she was about to welcome her and Xiao Yichen's child; this was her mission, and her happiness.
After several hours of arduous labor, a loud cry of a newborn broke the morning's tranquility. The midwife, holding the baby, emerged with a beaming smile and said, "Congratulations, General! Young mistress, it's a little prince!"
Upon hearing the news, Xiao Yichen was overjoyed beyond words. He rushed into the delivery room and, seeing the weak Lin Wan'er and her baby beside her, couldn't help but burst into tears.
"Wan'er, you've worked so hard. Our child has finally been born," Xiao Yichen said, his voice choked with emotion.
Lin Wan'er looked at Xiao Yichen and the child, a happy smile spreading across her face. She knew that all the pain had been worthwhile. Their child, this new life, would bring new hope to the General's Mansion and begin a new chapter in their lives.
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