The eve of the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Night fell like a vast black silk ribbon, gently enveloping the Rong Kingdom General's Mansion. However, this darkness could not conceal the festive atmosphere within, as vibrant as the sun. Inside, the mansion was brightly decorated, with exquisite lanterns hanging high, their red glow like fire and their gold like light. Their soft light spilled onto the ground and walls, creating a dreamlike and enchanting scene.
Looking out from the main gate, the cobblestone path stretched all the way to the inner courtyard, the flowerbeds on both sides appearing exceptionally vibrant under the moonlight. The normally imposing and solemn general's mansion seemed to have been enchanted, filled with warmth and joy. Servants moved about among them, their faces beaming with genuine smiles, carrying platters of carefully prepared food and wine, their steps light and quick as they made their way to the courtyard.
Inside the inner courtyard, General Xiao Yichen, dressed in magnificent robes, stood tall and straight like a pine tree, his face resolute yet gentle. He stood in the center of the courtyard, his gaze sweeping over the busy figures around him, a slight smile playing on his lips, his heart filled with anticipation for the festival. His several lieutenants beside him, all smiling, conversed quietly with him.
"General, this year's Mid-Autumn Festival is truly lively!" a lieutenant said with a smile, his eyes gleaming with excitement.
“Yes, it’s rare to have such leisure time, so we must let everyone have some fun,” Xiao Yichen replied, his voice loud and full of energy.
On the other side of the courtyard, the women were also gathered together. They were dressed in colorful clothes, like blooming flowers. The general's wife was directing the maids to arrange the tables and chairs; she was dignified, and her eyes showed kindness.
"Arrange these mooncakes neatly, and those plates of fruit too, remember they have to be fresh," the general's wife instructed softly, her tone carrying an unquestionable authority.
The maids nodded hurriedly, quickly tidying up. The children played and laughed nearby, chasing each other with small lanterns in their hands. Their innocent laughter echoed in the courtyard, like the most beautiful notes in this lively scene.
In the kitchen, the atmosphere was even more bustling. The chefs were incredibly busy, the flames roaring in the stoves, reflecting off their sweat-drenched faces. The food in the pots emitted an enticing aroma—the fragrance of stewed meat, baked bread, and steamed fruit—a medley of scents that permeated the entire General's Mansion.
"Old Zhang, this Mid-Autumn Festival banquet can't be taken lightly at all. The general and his wives are waiting for us," the kitchen manager shouted.
"Don't worry, this is one of my specialties. I guarantee everyone will be satisfied," Old Zhang replied confidently as he stirred the food in the pan.
In a corner of the general's mansion, musicians were tuning their instruments. The guzheng, erhu, pipa, and other instruments gleamed softly in the moonlight. Their expressions were focused; their fingers gently plucked the strings, and the melodies of their tests floated in the air, adding a touch of elegance to the lively atmosphere.
Just then, a commotion arose outside the gate. It turned out that some relatives and friends who had come to offer their congratulations were arriving one after another. Xiao Yichen hurriedly went forward to greet them and exchanged pleasantries with each of them.
"Brother Li, it's so great that you could come!" Xiao Yichen warmly shook hands with a friend.
"General Xiao, how could you not join in the festivities on this Mid-Autumn Festival?" Brother Li replied with a smile, his family members behind him also carrying gifts and beaming with joy.
As guests continued to pour in, the General's Mansion became even more lively. People greeted each other and offered blessings, their laughter echoing through the sky. The bright moon hanging high in the sky seemed to be infected by this merriment, casting its even brighter light and enveloping the entire General's Mansion in a peaceful atmosphere.
The banquet in the courtyard was gradually being prepared, with tables laden with tempting dishes. The whole roasted lamb, golden and crispy, glistened with oil and emitted a fragrant aroma; the steamed fish, symbolizing abundance year after year, was adorned with scallions and red peppers, resembling a beautiful painting; and the plates of colorful mooncakes, with various flavors such as five-nut, red bean paste, and egg yolk, seemed to tell the story of the Mid-Autumn Festival through their delicate patterns.
Xiao Yichen stood in the main seat, raised his wine glass, and said loudly, "Dear friends and family, today is the Mid-Autumn Festival, and it is a great joy in life for us to gather here and admire the bright moon together. Come, let us drink this cup together!"
Everyone responded enthusiastically, raising their glasses and downing them in one gulp. The wine flowed down their throats, its rich flavor spreading in their mouths, much like the joyful atmosphere, intoxicating them.
The musicians began to play beautiful music, the melodies drifting through the night sky. The women swayed gently to the music, their figures as light as swallows, their skirts fluttering, like fairies descending to earth. The children clapped and cheered for them.
Amidst the lively atmosphere, Xiao Yichen's gaze inadvertently drifted to a distant corner, where a unique tranquility seemed to reside. It was a poignant expression of his feelings about this Mid-Autumn Festival, a rare moment of peace and joy amidst the war-torn years. He knew all too well that such moments were hard-won, earned through countless battles and sacrifices.
However, at this moment, he preferred to immerse himself in this joy and spend this wonderful Mid-Autumn Festival night with everyone in the mansion. The bright moon hung high, and the liveliness in the General's Mansion continued. This would be a memorable night, a Mid-Autumn Festival filled with laughter, warmth, and reunion.
As night deepened, moonlight bathed every corner of the General's Mansion like water. The laughter and chatter did not diminish; on the contrary, it grew even more lively. Some young people began playing a game of guessing lantern riddles, the slips of paper with riddles written on them hanging under the lanterns, fluttering in the wind.
"A winding vine climbs the trellis, strings of pearls hang from it. (Guess a fruit)" A young gentleman read the riddle aloud, his brow furrowed as he pondered the answer.
“It’s grapes!” a young lady next to her answered with a smile, her eyes sparkling with intelligence.
"That's right! Miss is indeed intelligent." The young master exclaimed, and the people around him applauded.
On the other side, several elderly men sat together, chatting about past Mid-Autumn Festival anecdotes and the prosperity of the nation. Their eyes revealed a sense of nostalgia for the past and anticipation for the future.
"Back in the day, the Mid-Autumn Festival wasn't nearly as lively as it is now. The country is stable and the people are prosperous, all thanks to the generals and soldiers," an old man said with emotion.
"Yes, it is thanks to General Xiao's skillful military leadership and his protection of our country that we enjoy our peaceful lives today," another old man chimed in.
Hearing these words, Xiao Yichen felt a surge of warmth in his heart. He knew that his responsibility was heavy, but seeing all that he had done, he felt that all his efforts were worthwhile. He stood up, walked to the elders, and said respectfully, "Seniors, it is through everyone's joint efforts that we have achieved what we have today. I, Xiao Yichen, have only done my duty."
The general's wife looked at Xiao Yichen with pride in her eyes. She knew that her husband was a great hero, and this Mid-Autumn Festival was a rare moment for him to relax.
"Come on, everyone, keep eating and playing. Let's have a great time tonight!" The general's wife called out to everyone and then had the maids add more wine and dishes for everyone.
Suddenly, several dazzling fireworks burst into bloom in the sky. Their multicolored light illuminated the entire night sky, like blooming flowers. People looked up in awe, uttering gasps of wonder.
"How beautiful!" the children cheered, their eyes filled with longing for the beautiful sight.
Under the fireworks, everyone in the General's Mansion was immersed in the joyous atmosphere. Their smiles and happiness were captured on this Mid-Autumn Festival night, becoming the most dazzling pearls of their memories. This was not merely a celebration of a festival, but also a love for life, a longing for reunion, and a cherishing of peace. Within the Rong Kingdom General's Mansion, the joy of the Mid-Autumn Festival burned like an inextinguishable flame in everyone's heart, illuminating this beautiful night.
On the streets outside the General's Mansion, passersby were also drawn to the lively scene. They stopped to watch, their eyes filled with envy and blessings. On this Mid-Autumn Festival night, the General's Mansion was like a beacon of joy, bringing endless warmth and happiness to the entire capital of Rong Kingdom.
As the fireworks faded, the lively atmosphere inside the General's Mansion continued. People sat together, sharing their stories, enjoying delicious food, and savoring this moment of reunion. Under the moonlight, this ancient and solemn General's Mansion was full of life and vitality, like a dreamlike world, embodying people's yearning and pursuit of a better life.
On this special night, generals, soldiers, servants, and friends and relatives who came to celebrate the festival all forgot all their troubles and worries. They only knew that at this moment, they were happy, they were reunited, and they were surrounded by the joy of the Mid-Autumn Festival. And this joy, along with the glow of the bright moon, will be forever engraved in their hearts, becoming the most precious memory of their lives.
Finally, Xiao Yichen raised his wine glass once more, facing the bright moon and the crowd, and said with deep emotion, "May we have many more such days in the future, may our country prosper and our people live in peace and happiness!"
The crowd responded in unison, their voices echoing through the night sky, carrying far and wide, as if to convey this heartfelt blessing to every corner of Rong Kingdom. Amidst this joyous laughter and celebratory sounds, the Mid-Autumn Festival night at the Rong Kingdom General's Mansion became an eternal legend.
The lively atmosphere inside General Rong's mansion spread like a tide under the Mid-Autumn Festival moonlight. Amidst this cacophony of noise and joy, a beautiful woman, like a delicate orchid, quietly bloomed in a corner. She was Lin Wan'er.
Lin Wan'er wore a light pink silk dress, the hem embroidered with delicate plum blossom patterns, and as she moved, a subtle fragrance seemed to waft from her sleeves. Her hair cascaded down her back, simply tied back with a ribbon, a few strands falling on either side of her face, further accentuating her delicate yet innocent beauty. Her eyes were like a clear spring, crystal clear yet seemingly concealing endless thoughts; in this lively scene, a faint smile would sometimes appear, and at other times she would fall into deep thought.
At this moment, she stood under the veranda of the General's Mansion garden, beside her pots of blooming chrysanthemums. The golden and snow-white chrysanthemums exuded a delicate fragrance under the moonlight, perfectly complementing Lin Wan'er's refined气质 (qi zhi - inherent quality/temperament). She leaned slightly forward, gently inhaling the fragrance, a hint of delight in her eyes. These chrysanthemums reminded her of her days in the palace. Within those imposing palace walls, there was also a small garden like this. Every autumn, when the chrysanthemums bloomed, she would secretly sneak away to admire them—one of her few moments of true happiness.
"Miss Lin, you're here." A maid's voice came from behind.
Lin Wan'er turned around and smiled at the maid: "These chrysanthemums are blooming so beautifully that I lingered here a little longer."
A maidservant approached and said with a smile, "The General's mansion garden is meticulously maintained, with all kinds of flowers blooming in every season. Today is the Mid-Autumn Festival, and the mansion is bustling with activity. Why don't you join everyone in the festivities, Miss?"
Lin Wan'er shook her head slightly: "I like the tranquility here. Looking at these flowers makes me feel very comfortable."
The maid nodded in understanding: "Miss has always been different from others. However, the General and his wife welcome you very much. If you want to go to a lively place, you will definitely have a great time."
A warm feeling welled up in Lin Wan'er's heart. She knew that General Xiao Yichen and his wife treated her extremely well. Since arriving at the General's Mansion, she had felt an unprecedented warmth. Here, there was no palace intrigue, no oppressive gaze from the Regent, only genuine smiles and care from the people.
"I know, I'll go there myself in a bit," Lin Wan'er said softly.
After the maid left, Lin Wan'er walked slowly along the corridor. Her gaze fell on the artificial hill and pond in the garden. Fish frolicked in the pond under the moonlight, occasionally leaping out of the water and splashing ripples. The artificial hill, with its craggy rocks, possessed a unique charm, like a small forest hiding countless secrets. Lin Wan'er couldn't help but recall the times she played hide-and-seek behind the artificial hill in the palace when she was a child. Back then, she had several friends, and although they were of different social statuses, there was no distance between them when they played together. However, as they grew older, those friends gradually drifted apart, some even disappearing in the power struggles of the court.
"Lin Wan'er, you're here." A familiar voice interrupted her thoughts.
Lin Wan'er looked up and saw General Xiao Yichen walking towards her. Xiao Yichen had changed out of his solemn armor and was now wearing a moon-white brocade robe. He stood tall and imposing. His face was adorned with a gentle smile, a stark contrast to his cold and stern demeanor on the battlefield.
"General." Lin Wan'er curtsied slightly.
Xiao Yichen waved his hand: "It's Mid-Autumn Festival today, no need for formalities. Why are you here alone?"
Lin Wan'er looked at the pond: "The scenery here is so pleasant, I've decided to enjoy it. Why is the General here too?"
Xiao Yichen walked to her side: "I noticed you weren't at the banquet, so I came looking for you. Today is the Mid-Autumn Festival, and everyone hopes you have a good time."
Lin Wan'er was touched: "Thank you for your concern, General. I am very happy at the General's Mansion."
Xiao Yichen looked at Lin Wan'er, a hint of pity flashing in his eyes: "I know you've been through a lot in the palace. Now that you're in the General's Mansion, just treat this place as your home."
Lin Wan'er nodded slightly, tears welling up in her eyes: "I will always remember the kindness of the General and his wife."
The two stood by the pond for a while, and Xiao Yichen said, "Let's go to the banquet area, everyone is waiting for us."
Lin Wan'er gently wiped away the tears from the corners of her eyes and walked towards the banquet with Xiao Yichen. At this moment, everyone at the banquet was laughing and chatting happily. Seeing Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er approaching, they all stood up to greet them.
"Miss Lin is here, please come and sit down," the general's wife greeted her warmly.
Lin Wan'er walked to her seat and sat down. She felt the friendly gazes of those around her, and her initial awkwardness gradually disappeared. At the banquet, there was a dazzling array of delicacies, but Lin Wan'er ate very little, only occasionally savoring some delicate pastries.
"Miss Lin, this is a special mooncake from our household. Please try it." A deputy general's wife smiled and handed a mooncake to Lin Wan'er.
Lin Wan'er accepted the mooncake and thanked her with a smile: "Thank you, Madam. This mooncake looks very exquisite."
She took a small bite, and the sweet aroma of the mooncake spread in her mouth. The delicate texture made her exclaim, "It's so delicious!"
Everyone was delighted to see that Lin Wan'er liked it. At that moment, the musicians began playing lively music again, and some of the young people got up to dance. Lin Wan'er watched their joyful dance, a look of envy in her eyes.
"Miss Lin, why don't you go and dance too?" a young gentleman invited.
Lin Wan'er hesitated. She had grown up in the palace since childhood and although she had learned some dance, she was still a little nervous about dancing in front of others.
"Go ahead, Miss Lin, just treat it as a bit of fun," the general's wife encouraged.
Lin Wan'er mustered her courage and rose to walk to the center of the dance floor. She closed her eyes slightly, recalling the dance moves she had learned in the palace. To the rhythm of the music, she began to dance gracefully. Her movements were light and beautiful, like a butterfly fluttering in the air, or a lotus flower swaying in the water. Her silk skirt billowed in the wind, her hair flew, as if the whole world revolved around her.
Everyone was captivated by Lin Wan'er's dance, stopping what they were doing to watch her intently. Xiao Yichen also looked at Lin Wan'er, his admiration for her growing. He hadn't expected this seemingly delicate woman to possess such outstanding dancing skills.
As the music ended, Lin Wan'er stopped dancing, slightly out of breath. The crowd snapped out of their daze and erupted in enthusiastic applause and cheers.
"Miss Lin danced so well!"
"She's like a fairy descending to earth!"
Lin Wan'er blushed slightly upon hearing these compliments. She returned to her seat, somewhat embarrassed, and said, "Please excuse my poor appearance."
"Miss Lin is too modest. Your dancing skills are truly exceptional," an old man exclaimed.
The rest of the time was spent having fun. Games like guessing riddles and playing pitch-pot filled the banquet with laughter. Lin Wan'er gradually opened up and actively participated.
As night deepened and the bright moon hung high in the sky, the lively atmosphere within the General's Mansion continued. Lin Wan'er sat at the banquet, looking at the familiar faces around her, her heart filled with emotion. She knew that this Mid-Autumn Festival night would become an unforgettable memory for her. In this General's Mansion, she had found true happiness and warmth, and these people had become important figures in her life.
Suddenly, a cool breeze blew by, and Lin Wan'er shivered slightly. Xiao Yichen noticed her unusual behavior and asked, "Miss Lin, are you cold?"
Lin Wan'er shook her head: "I'm not cold, General."
Xiao Yichen took off his cloak and gently draped it over Lin Wan'er, saying, "It's chilly at night, don't catch a cold."
Lin Wan'er felt the lingering warmth of his body on the cloak and her heart warmed: "Thank you, General."
In this warm atmosphere, the people inside the General's Mansion continued to enjoy the joy of the Mid-Autumn Festival. Lin Wan'er was also immersed in it. She knew that her connection with the General's Mansion had only just begun, and this place would be the home of her soul. She silently prayed that these happy times could last forever, and that all these kind people could be safe and happy.
As time passed, some guests began to take their leave. Xiao Yichen and the General's wife rose to see them off. Lin Wan'er also helped, smiling as she bid farewell to each guest, her eyes filled with reluctance.
"Miss Lin, you had a wonderful Mid-Autumn Festival today. I hope to see you again next time," a guest said.
"Of course, please take care," Lin Wan'er replied.
After the guests left, the General's Mansion gradually returned to tranquility. The maids began to clear away the banquet dishes, and the servants tidied the courtyard. Lin Wan'er volunteered to help, tidying up the tables and chairs with light and skillful movements alongside the maids.
"Miss Lin, please go and rest. We'll take care of these things," a maid said.
Lin Wan'er smiled and said, "It's okay, I'd like to help too."
Amidst the busyness, Lin Wan'er felt a unique sense of fulfillment. She knew that everyone in this general's mansion had their place and were contributing to the family. And she, too, hoped to become a member, contributing her own strength to the general's mansion.
After finishing her work, Lin Wan'er returned to her room. She sat by the window, gazing at the moonlight, reflecting on the events of the evening. She took out a small jade pendant from her bosom; it was the only keepsake her mother had left her. Whenever she felt lonely or uneasy, she would take out the pendant, as if she could feel her mother's warmth emanating from it.
"Mother, I'm doing very well at the General's Mansion. Everyone here treats me very well," Lin Wan'er said softly to the jade pendant.
The night sky was like a huge black silk ribbon, gently spread across the sky, and the bright moon was like a dazzling pearl, inlaid on the ribbon, casting silvery light and enveloping the Rongguo General's Mansion in a dreamlike atmosphere.
In the courtyard, an exquisite stone table stood in the center, laden with various kinds of mooncakes. Lin Wan'er and Xiao Yichen sat facing each other, the sweet aroma of mooncakes filling the air. Lin Wan'er wore a moon-white gauze dress, embroidered with delicate silver patterns that shimmered in the moonlight, making her appear like a fairy descended from the moon palace. Her eyes were clear and bright, and she gazed at the mooncakes on the table with a smile. Xiao Yichen, dressed in a deep blue robe, stood tall and straight, his gaze gently fixed on Lin Wan'er, a slight smile playing on his lips.
“Miss Lin, these mooncakes were all carefully made by the chefs in the manor. Which flavor would you like?” Xiao Yichen said softly, his voice sounding particularly mellow in the quiet night.
Lin Wan'er tilted her head slightly, carefully examining the mooncakes. The crusts were golden and crispy, some adorned with exquisite patterns, others sprinkled with sesame seeds, gleaming with an enticing sheen. "They all look so delicate; I don't know which one to choose first," Lin Wan'er replied with a smile.
Xiao Yichen picked up a red bean paste mooncake and handed it to Lin Wan'er: "This red bean paste mooncake has a delicate texture, sweet but not cloying. You can try it." Lin Wan'er gently took the mooncake; her fingers were slender and long, like jade scallions. She took a small bite, and the red bean paste slowly flowed out, its sweet aroma spreading in her mouth. "Mmm, it's really delicious. General, you should have some too." Lin Wan'er's eyes sparkled with satisfaction.
Xiao Yichen also picked up a mooncake with five-nut filling, put it in his mouth and chewed slowly: "This five-nut mooncake is made with plenty of ingredients, and you can taste the crunchy aroma of nuts in every bite." The two chatted softly while enjoying the mooncakes, and their laughter echoed in the courtyard.
A gentle breeze blew by, carrying the fragrance of osmanthus blossoms from the courtyard. Lin Wan'er looked up at the bright moon in the sky: "General, look at the moon, it's so beautiful tonight." Xiao Yichen followed her gaze. The bright moon hung high, surrounded by twinkling stars, as if embellishing the moon. "Yes, such a beautiful scene is truly rare. The bright moon carries our longing; I wonder if the soldiers far away are also admiring the moon." A trace of longing flashed in Xiao Yichen's eyes.
Lin Wan'er sensed the emotion in his words: "General, you have the world in your heart and care about every soldier. It is a blessing for Rong Kingdom to have a general like you." Xiao Yichen shook his head slightly: "I am only doing my best to protect the country and its people; it is my responsibility." Looking at Xiao Yichen's resolute face, Lin Wan'er felt a surge of admiration.
Bathed in moonlight, the flowers, plants, and trees in the courtyard seemed draped in a layer of silver frost. Among the flowers beside the stone table, several fireflies danced, their faint light twinkling like flowing starlight. Lin Wan'er stood up and walked towards the fireflies. She stretched out her hand, and a firefly landed on her fingertip. "General, look at these fireflies. They're like spirits of this Mid-Autumn Festival night," Lin Wan'er said softly, her eyes filled with delight.
Xiao Yichen also walked over, looking at the firefly on Lin Wan'er's fingertip: "They shine in this night, and although their light is faint, it brings hope and beauty. Just like the people of our Rong Kingdom, everyone is working hard for their lives, and together they form a powerful force." Lin Wan'er nodded gently, and she blew a breath, causing the firefly to fly up, drawing a beautiful arc in the air.
The two returned to the stone table and continued enjoying the mooncakes. Xiao Yichen picked up a cup of tea and handed it to Lin Wan'er: "After eating mooncakes, have some tea to cleanse your palate. This is this year's newly harvested Longjing tea; it has a delicate fragrance." Lin Wan'er took the teacup, took a small sip, and the aroma of the tea spread in her mouth, blending with the sweetness of the mooncakes. "This tea is really good; it has a faint floral fragrance," Lin Wan'er exclaimed.
Just then, melodious zither music drifted from afar. It turned out to be the musicians of the manor playing for this Mid-Autumn Festival night. The music flowed like a gentle stream, adding a touch of romance to the warm scene. Lin Wan'er closed her eyes, listening quietly to the music, a look of pure bliss on her face. Xiao Yichen looked at her, his smile deepening. In his eyes, Lin Wan'er was like the moonlight of this Mid-Autumn Festival night—pure and beautiful.
“General, this music seems to cleanse one’s soul, making one forget all troubles,” Lin Wan’er said, opening her eyes. Xiao Yichen nodded in agreement: “That’s the charm of music; it can touch people’s hearts and make them feel different emotions.” The two were immersed in the music, their thoughts drifting with the notes.
As the music began, Lin Wan'er unconsciously hummed a soft tune. Her voice was clear and melodious, like a nightingale's. Xiao Yichen listened quietly, captivated by Lin Wan'er's singing. "Miss Lin, your voice is truly beautiful, like a fairy singing under the moonlight," Xiao Yichen exclaimed sincerely. Lin Wan'er smiled shyly, "General, you flatter me. I'm just singing as I feel."
The music gradually softened, ending with a gentle note. Lin Wan'er and Xiao Yichen both snapped out of their reverie, captivated by the beautiful music. "Tonight is truly a wonderful night, with delicious food, beautiful scenery, and such lovely music," Lin Wan'er remarked. Xiao Yichen looked at her and said, "With you here, this Mid-Autumn Festival is even more special." Lin Wan'er's cheeks flushed slightly as she lowered her head, gazing at the mooncakes on the table.
Suddenly, Xiao Yichen stood up and walked to the center of the courtyard. He picked up a sword and began to practice. Under the moonlight, the sword gleamed coldly; his movements were agile and his swordplay sharp, each motion brimming with power. Lin Wan'er watched him in astonishment; she hadn't expected Xiao Yichen to possess such superb swordsmanship. As his swordplay unfolded, Xiao Yichen's figure seemed to merge with the moonlight, like a war god protecting humanity.
After the dance, Xiao Yichen sheathed his sword and returned to the stone table. Lin Wan'er's eyes gleamed with admiration: "General's swordsmanship is truly divine; I have never seen such a magnificent sword dance." Xiao Yichen smiled: "This is something I honed on the battlefield. Swordsmanship is not only a skill for killing enemies, but also a way to express emotions." Lin Wan'er nodded: "General, through your sword dance, you have demonstrated your lofty aspirations and your determination to protect the country."
Just then, a cloud drifted across the sky, partially obscuring the moon. The moonlight softened, casting dappled shadows across the courtyard. Lin Wan'er rose and danced gracefully in the light and shadow. Her movements were light and beautiful, like petals fluttering in the wind. Her gauze skirt billowed, like a blooming flower in the moonlight. Xiao Yichen watched her quietly, captivated by Lin Wan'er's dance.
Lin Wan'er's dance seemed to tell a story, a story about longing and beauty. Every movement of hers was full of emotion; she used dance to express her love for this Mid-Autumn Festival night, her gratitude to everyone in the General's Mansion, and her respect for the general before her. As the dance progressed, the surrounding air seemed to soften, as if the whole world revolved around her.
After finishing her dance, Lin Wan'er, slightly out of breath, returned to the stone table and sat down. "Miss Lin, your dance, like the moonlight, is truly moving," Xiao Yichen exclaimed. Lin Wan'er smiled and said, "General, I will forever remember this Mid-Autumn Festival. Here, I felt true joy." Xiao Yichen looked at her: "If you're willing, we can spend every Mid-Autumn Festival together from now on." Lin Wan'er's eyes sparkled with anticipation: "Really? That's wonderful!"
The two continued to sit in the courtyard, enjoying this warm moment. They talked about past Mid-Autumn Festivals, sharing their memories. Xiao Yichen recounted his Mid-Autumn Festivals spent in the army, the days he spent admiring the moon and eating dry rations with his soldiers. Lin Wan'er, on the other hand, told stories of sneaking out of the palace to see the moon. Their laughter echoed in the courtyard, as if trying to freeze this beautiful night in time.
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