As dawn broke through the dappled clouds, it bathed the scarred courtyard of the General's Mansion. The smoke of last night's battle seemed not to have completely dissipated, and a faint smell of burning lingered in the air. But the people of the General's Mansion were not shrouded in this somber atmosphere for long. After a night's rest, their yearning for a better life and their cherishing of traditional festivals, like tenacious flames, burned brightly once more.
The servants began their work early, sweeping away clutter in the courtyard and wiping down the smoke-blackened railings and chairs. Although their faces showed fatigue, their eyes were full of hope. They encouraged each other, discussing how to make the interrupted Mid-Autumn Festival lively again.
“We need to tidy up this yard properly; we can’t let those men in black spoil our fun,” an old servant said as he swept up the debris.
"Yes, the general and his wife are so good to us, we must celebrate this festival in a lively and joyous way so that everyone can forget the unpleasantness of last night," another maid chimed in.
In the kitchen, the chefs were busy again. The fire in the stove was lit again, sweet osmanthus porridge was simmering in the pot, steam was rising from the steamer, and the freshly made mooncakes emitted an enticing aroma. They were carefully preparing a variety of delicacies, as if trying to dispel the gloom of the previous night with these delicious treats.
“Those men in black last night were awful; they almost ruined all our hard work. Today, we have to cook the best dishes so everyone can enjoy their meal,” the chef said to his assistants, wielding a spatula.
"Don't worry, Master, we will do our best!" the assistants replied in unison.
The general's wife was also busy, directing the maids to decorate the courtyard. Colorful lanterns were hung up again; although some were damaged in the chaos of the previous night, they were repaired and still emitted a warm glow. Overturned flowerpots were righted, and new flowers were placed among them, adding a touch of life to the courtyard.
"Hang another lantern here, and tie on those ribbons too, to create a festive atmosphere," the general's wife instructed methodically.
Xiao Yichen led the soldiers to inspect the defenses of the general's mansion. After ensuring there were no security risks, he also came to the courtyard to help. He was deeply moved by everyone's enthusiasm.
"Everyone has worked hard. We must make this Mid-Autumn Festival meaningful and not let the enemy's conspiracy succeed," Xiao Yichen said loudly.
The soldiers responded in unison, "Yes, General!"
As noon approached, the courtyard of the general's mansion had been transformed. Tables and chairs were neatly arranged, food was laid out on the tables, and various decorations filled the space with a festive atmosphere. The less seriously wounded soldiers and servants also came to the courtyard, and everyone sat together, their laughter and chatter gradually filling the air.
The children seemed to have forgotten the fear of the previous night. They carried their newly made lanterns and played among the crowd, their joyful laughter echoing in the air like silver bells.
"Look at my lantern, it's so pretty!" A little boy proudly showed off his lantern to his friends.
“Mine is pretty too, it even has little bunnies on it!” a little girl said defiantly.
Lin Wan'er also came to the courtyard. Seeing this lively scene, tears welled up in her eyes. She knew that this was a testament to the indomitable spirit of the people in the General's Mansion; they had not been defeated by difficulties, but had chosen to fight against the darkness with joy.
"Miss Lin, please come and sit down," the general's wife greeted warmly.
Lin Wan'er walked to the table and sat down, smiling as she said, "Madam, I am truly moved to see everyone like this."
The general's wife held Lin Wan'er's hand: "We can't let those bad people ruin our lives. We should celebrate today."
At this moment, the musicians also came to the center of the courtyard. They tuned their instruments, and melodious music began to play. First was a soothing piece called "Moonlight Song," whose gentle melody seemed to transport people to a peaceful and beautiful moonlit night, allowing everyone to temporarily forget the pain of the previous night.
As the music began, some people started humming softly, and then more people joined in. The singing and music intertwined, floating in the air above the General's Mansion.
As the first piece ended, the musicians began playing the lively "Reunion Song." The upbeat music made people spontaneously stand up, hold hands, and dance in a circle. Children jumped and skipped in the circle, and the adults' faces were filled with bright smiles.
Looking at the lively scene, Xiao Yichen was filled with emotion. He walked to the center of the courtyard and said loudly, "Everyone, last night we went through a difficult time, but we were not defeated. Today, we are gathered here again to celebrate this Mid-Autumn Festival because we have hope in our hearts and a love for life. Let us cherish this moment and toast to our unity and resilience!" After speaking, he raised his glass and drank it all in one gulp.
Everyone responded enthusiastically, raising their glasses and shouting, "Cheers!"
In this joyful atmosphere, the lantern riddle guessing activity began. Colorful strips of paper with riddles written on them hung under the lanterns, fluttering in the wind.
"A winding vine climbs the trellis, strings of pearls hang from it. (Guess a fruit)" A young soldier recited the riddle.
“It’s grapes!” a maidservant answered excitedly, and everyone around her applauded.
"A knife, floating downstream, has eyes but no eyebrows. (Guess the animal)" Another riddle was read out.
"It's a fish!" a little boy shouted, and everyone was amused by his adorable appearance.
The lantern riddle guessing activity filled the courtyard with laughter and joy, with everyone actively participating and immersing themselves in the happy atmosphere.
In the afternoon, the sun was high in the sky, and the lively atmosphere at the General's Mansion continued. People began playing the game of pitch-pot. On one side of the courtyard, several pitch-pots and arrows were set up, and everyone was divided into groups to take turns playing.
"Watch me, I'm sure I can hit it!" A young lieutenant confidently picked up an arrow, aimed at the pitcher, and threw it, but unfortunately the arrow grazed the edge of the pitcher and fell to the ground.
"Haha, you're still a long way off!" someone next to him joked with a laugh.
On the other side, the women gathered together to play cat's cradle. They used colorful silk threads to twirl between their fingers, weaving various exquisite patterns.
"Your pattern is so beautiful! How did you make it? Please teach me!" one woman said to another who was skilled at cat's cradle.
"It's very simple. Look, just wrap the line around like this..." The knowledgeable woman explained patiently.
As time passed, the sun gradually set, turning the sky orange-red. A bonfire was lit in the courtyard of the general's mansion, and people sat around it, sharing their stories.
An elderly servant recounted his childhood memories of celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival: "Back then, we didn't have so many delicious treats, so we just hoped to get a piece of mooncake. We would all gather in the courtyard to watch the moon and listen to the elders tell those ancient legends."
"Yes, life is much better now than before. Although bad people come to cause trouble, we can still have a happy holiday," another person said with emotion.
Lin Wan'er listened quietly to everyone's stories, feeling a deep sense of kinship and warmth. In this general's mansion, she had found a true home, and these people were like her own family.
Sitting by the campfire, Xiao Yichen looked at Lin Wan'er, a strange emotion welling up inside him. He knew that this woman had already occupied an important place in his heart. After experiencing the life-or-death ordeal of the previous night, he cherished everything before him even more.
"Miss Lin, what are you thinking about?" Xiao Yichen asked softly.
Lin Wan'er turned to look at him: "General, I'm thinking that being able to spend the Mid-Autumn Festival here with everyone is truly the happiest thing in my life."
Xiao Yichen smiled and said, "As long as you're willing, we can spend every Mid-Autumn Festival like this from now on."
Lin Wan'er's cheeks flushed slightly, and she nodded gently: "Yes, I'm willing."
As night deepened, the bright moon once again hung high in the sky. The people of the General's Mansion gathered around the bonfire, continuing their joyful songs and laughter. In this way, they declared to the enemy that they would not be easily defeated, and that their lives remained full of sunshine and joy. This Mid-Autumn Festival, which had been rekindled in celebration, would become an unforgettable memory in the history of the General's Mansion, etched in the hearts of everyone, and a source of strength for them when facing difficulties in the future.
In this warm atmosphere, the Mid-Autumn Festival celebrations at the General's Mansion drew to a close. Everyone, filled with happiness and anticipation for the future, returned to their rooms to rest. The General's Mansion returned to tranquility, but this tranquility was filled with hope and warmth, as if foreshadowing a bright future. Behind this tranquility, however, everyone in the General's Mansion knew that they needed to be even more vigilant, protecting this hard-won peace and happiness.
As night completely enveloped the General's Mansion, the bright moon hung high in the sky, casting a silvery glow that seemed to drape the mansion, which had weathered many storms, in a dreamlike veil. Inside the mansion, laughter and cheerful voices rose and fell, the joyful atmosphere rippling out like a warm tide, filling every corner.
In the courtyard, a campfire roared, its leaping flames illuminating the rosy cheeks of the soldiers. They sat together, joking and sharing thrilling and amusing stories from the battlefield. A young soldier, gesturing wildly, recounted, "That time we were patrolling the border, we suddenly encountered a pack of wolves. Their eyes were a terrifying green, so scary! But we weren't afraid. We worked together and eventually chased them all away, just like last night when we chased away those men in black!" His vivid storytelling captivated those around him, bursting into laughter that carried far into the night.
The women, on the other side, savored the food and chatted about various novel topics. They held delicate round fans, gently swaying them; the floral and bird patterns on the fans seemed to come alive in the firelight. One woman smiled and said, "Look at these newly made mooncakes! There are even more varieties than in previous years! This red bean paste filling is sweet but not cloying—it's absolutely delicious!" The others nodded in agreement, chewing on their mooncakes with satisfied expressions.
Children chased and played among the crowd, their joy pure and simple. Several little boys, holding homemade wooden swords, imitated General Xiao Yichen's swordsmanship, shouting "Take this!" and "Catch this!" having a wonderful time. The little girls gathered together, showing off their beautiful hair ornaments to each other, chattering about which one was prettier. One little girl ran to the General's wife, tugging at her clothes and saying sweetly, "Madam, look at my hair ornament! My mother made it for me, and it has lots of little beads on it!" The General's wife smiled and patted her head, "So beautiful, just like our little princess."
The musicians once again played cheerful music, its melodious tune flowing like a babbling brook into everyone's hearts. This time, they were playing a lively folk dance tune, its brisk rhythm making one want to dance. Several young men and women rose and went to the center of the courtyard, moving to the rhythm of the music. Their movements were light and graceful, twirling and leaping, their skirts fluttering, like fairies dancing in the night sky.
Lin Wan'er was also infected by the joyful atmosphere. She stood up and joined the dancing crowd. She wore a light pink dress, the hem of which bloomed like a flower as she danced. Her face was beaming with a radiant smile, and her eyes sparkled with joy emanating from the depths of her heart. As she danced, her eyes met those around her, and they shared their happiness. She felt as if she had completely integrated into this big family, and everyone here was her relative. This feeling warmed her deeply.
Xiao Yichen stood to the side, quietly watching the dancers, a smile playing on his lips. His gaze unconsciously fell on Lin Wan'er, and seeing her joyful dance and happy expression, a warm feeling welled up in his heart. At this special moment, he felt the preciousness of peace and tranquility, and his resolve to protect the General's Mansion and everyone here was strengthened.
As the music played, more and more people joined in, holding hands and forming a large circle. The circle swirled in the courtyard, everyone immersed in this sea of joy. Whether old or young, soldier or servant, everyone forgot their status and worries, simply enjoying this pure happiness.
After the dance music ended, everyone was a little out of breath, but their smiles were even brighter. They returned to their seats, continuing to enjoy the food and chat. Then, someone suggested playing some traditional Mid-Autumn Festival games, such as guessing numbers.
The number guessing game began. One person thought of a number, and the others guessed the number by asking questions. The person asking the question could only answer "yes" or "no." A young lieutenant volunteered to be the questioner. After he thought of a number, everyone began asking questions.
"Is this number greater than 50?" a soldier asked.
"Yes," the lieutenant replied.
"Is this number less than 70?" another person then asked.
"yes."
After some questioning, a clever maid finally guessed the answer, and everyone applauded and cheered for her. This simple game was a great joy for everyone, and the atmosphere became even more lively.
Besides guessing numbers, someone suggested playing a game of "flying flowers" (a poetic recitation game). With "moon" as the theme, everyone took turns reciting lines of poetry containing the character "moon." A scholar-like guest started by saying, "Raising my cup, I invite the bright moon; with my shadow, we become three." Immediately, another person responded, "The bright moon rises from the Tianshan Mountains, amidst the vast sea of clouds." Everyone went back and forth, reciting lines of poetry effortlessly, showcasing their profound cultural knowledge. Those beautiful verses echoed in the night sky, adding a touch of poetry to this joyous evening.
Between games, servants continuously brought out new food and wine. The wine swirled in the glasses, releasing a rich aroma, much like the joyful atmosphere, growing more intense with each sip. The food was plentiful: golden-brown, crispy roasted pigeons, their skin glistening with oil and tantalizingly fragrant; steamed hairy crabs, plump with roe and tender, juicy meat; and various fresh, sweet, and refreshing fruits. Everyone ate and played, fully enjoying this wonderful time.
Before they knew it, night had fallen, but the joy within the General's Mansion showed no signs of waning. On the contrary, in this tranquil night, the joy was even more intense and precious. Laughter, singing, and conversation mingled together, creating a warm and harmonious scene.
At this moment, the bright moon seemed to be drawn by the joy as well, piercing through the clouds and casting its even brighter light upon the General's Mansion. Under the moonlight, the pavilions, gardens, and corridors of the General's Mansion appeared exceptionally beautiful. The flowers in the garden, bathed in moonlight, exuded a faint fragrance, as if adding to the joyous atmosphere.
In this joyful atmosphere, the people of the General's Mansion felt a deep sense of unity. They knew that after last night's crisis, their relationships had become even closer, and this bond built in adversity was incredibly strong. They cherished everything they had and were full of confidence for the future.
Xiao Yichen watched all this, his heart filled with emotion. He walked to the center of the courtyard, raised his wine glass, and said loudly, "Everyone, we have been through a lot this Mid-Autumn Festival. But at this moment, we can still be here and enjoy ourselves as before, because of the strength and unity of each and every one of us. Let us toast to this friendship, to our General's Mansion!" After speaking, he drank it all in one gulp.
Everyone responded enthusiastically, raising their glasses and shouting in unison, "Cheers!" Their voices echoed in the night sky, carrying their love for life, their hopes for the future, and their deep affection for the General's Mansion. This Mid-Autumn Festival will become an eternal and beautiful memory in their hearts. No matter what difficulties they encounter in the future, they can draw strength from this memory and continue to move forward.
After the last cup of wine was drunk, everyone began to disperse. The children fell asleep in their parents' arms, smiles still on their lips. The women helped each other along, whispering about the evening's events as they walked. The soldiers returned to their camps, somewhat tired, but their hearts were filled with satisfaction.
The general's mansion gradually returned to tranquility, with only the bright moon still hanging high, guarding this land full of joy and warmth. In everyone's dreams, they remained immersed in this Mid-Autumn Festival, as joyful as ever. The laughter, songs, dances, and games would become their sweetest dreams, accompanying them through one beautiful night after another.
Lin Wan'er sat in her room, the moonlight streaming through the window like water onto the floor, resembling a thin silver veil. Her thoughts, however, raced through the Mid-Autumn Festival night that had just passed. Scenes of danger and Xiao Yichen's heroic protection of everyone flashed through her mind, every detail as clear as yesterday.
She recalled the terrifying scene when the men in black appeared like ghosts in the inner courtyard. Their cold eyes, brandishing blades, and the terrified screams of the people seemed to pull her back to that bloody and chaotic moment. She could clearly remember her heartbeat at that time, the rapid pounding like a war drum, each beat filled with fear of the unknown and death. But in that extreme panic, she saw Xiao Yichen's figure. He was like a towering mountain, standing firm in the storm, giving people an endless sense of security.
As she confronted the men in black in the inner courtyard, the wooden stick in her hand trembled slightly, but her eyes remained unwavering. She knew she couldn't back down, for behind her were the women and children of the General's Mansion, those innocent lives. And whenever she felt danger approaching, almost swallowed by fear, Xiao Yichen's image would appear in her mind at just the right moment. The scene of him fighting fiercely with the men in black in the courtyard, his sharp swordsmanship, his agile figure, was like a ray of light shining into her dark world, giving her courage and strength, allowing her to dodge the attacks of the men in black time and time again, and bravely fight back.
Lin Wan'er remembered that during her fight with the man in black, there was a moment when she felt utterly exhausted, as if she would be subdued by him at any moment. However, at that very moment, Xiao Yichen seemed to sense her danger, and he arrived with his soldiers just in time. Seeing Xiao Yichen's figure at that moment, Lin Wan'er felt an indescribable warmth and reassurance welling up inside her. He was like a timely rain, appearing when she needed him most, saving her and everyone in the inner courtyard.
As Xiao Yichen battled the leader of the men in black, Lin Wan'er watched anxiously from the sidelines. She saw the wounds on Xiao Yichen's body, blood staining his clothes, yet his eyes remained as firm as a rock. What kind of eyes were those? Fearless, resolute, filled with unwavering commitment to justice and fury towards the enemy. Every movement he made, every swing of his sword, seemed to be writing a magnificent poem, a poem about protection and courage. Lin Wan'er's gaze was fixed on Xiao Yichen, her heart filled with admiration and worry. Admiration for his bravery and fearlessness, worry that he might suffer even more serious injuries in this fierce battle.
As Xiao Yichen finally defeated the leader of the men in black and turned to run towards the backyard, Lin Wan'er's gaze followed his retreating figure. His back appeared weary in the moonlight, yet incredibly imposing. She knew he was going to protect more people, to safeguard every corner of the General's Mansion. At that moment, besides her admiration for Xiao Yichen, Lin Wan'er felt a special emotion: a deep reliance, a reverence for a hero, and trust in him as a person.
As the general's mansion returned to calm and everyone resumed celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival, Lin Wan'er silently observed Xiao Yichen. She saw him bustling about in the crowd, directing soldiers to strengthen defenses, caring for the wounded, and laughing and celebrating with everyone. Every action of his deepened Lin Wan'er's understanding of his kindness, his sense of responsibility, and his greatness. He was not only a general with illustrious military achievements, but also a flesh-and-blood person full of warmth.
Lin Wan'er gently stroked her arm, where she had sustained a minor injury during her fight with the man in black. But at this moment, she felt no pain, for her heart was filled with a warm emotion. She recalled Xiao Yichen's concerned gaze after the battle, asking if she was injured. The worry and tenderness in his eyes made her heart beat faster. In that moment, she felt a care she had never experienced before—a pure, heartfelt care, not motivated by self-interest or ulterior motives.
She walked to the window, gazing at the bright moon outside, her thoughts drifting further. Having grown up in the palace, she had witnessed too much scheming and hypocrisy. Those who were kind to her were either doing so because of her status or to exploit her for their own ends. But in the General's Mansion, especially in Xiao Yichen, she saw genuine kindness and sincerity. Every smile, every greeting, every act of protection from him was like a precious jewel, embedded in her heart, becoming her most treasured possession.
Lin Wan'er couldn't help but think of her parents. Although she didn't have many memories of them, she knew that parents' love for their children must be like Xiao Yichen's love for her—selfless, warm, and unconditional, only hoping that the other person could be safe and happy. In this general's mansion, both strange and familiar, Xiao Yichen was like family to her, giving her the affection and warmth she had long lost.
The image of Xiao Yichen raising his glass and speaking in the courtyard flashed through her mind again. His resounding voice, unwavering gaze, and passionate words deeply moved her. He said that everyone's strength and unity made this Mid-Autumn Festival even more meaningful, and Lin Wan'er knew that he was the core of this unity, everyone's pillar of support. Around him, everyone could feel strength and courage, and find their own value and sense of belonging.
Lin Wan'er sighed softly, a smile playing on her lips. She knew this Mid-Autumn Festival night would become one of the most unforgettable memories of her life. Those thrilling moments, the heartwarming times, and Xiao Yichen's figure would be forever etched in her heart. She secretly vowed to become stronger, no longer the weak woman who needed protection. She would stand with Xiao Yichen to protect the General's Mansion, to safeguard this hard-won warmth and peace.
On this peaceful night, Lin Wan'er's heart was filled with warmth and hope. She knew that the future might hold even more challenges and difficulties, but as long as Xiao Yichen and everyone in the General's Mansion were there for her, she would be fearless. She would carry this warmth and courage to greet each new day and write her own wonderful story. And Xiao Yichen, the person who held special significance in her life, would become a guiding light on her path, leading her towards a future full of hope.
She sat back down by the bed, closed her eyes, and could almost hear the laughter and chatter in the courtyard, and see Xiao Yichen's warm smile. Lost in these sweet memories, she drifted off to sleep. In her dream, she and the people of the General's Mansion laughed and danced under the moonlight, free from fear and sorrow, filled only with boundless joy and warmth. And Xiao Yichen stood beside her, protecting her, protecting their shared home.
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