As the last guest departed, still slightly tipsy and full of blessings, the General's Mansion gradually returned to tranquility. Night enveloped the entire mansion, except for the bridal chamber, where a warm and soft candlelight still shone.
Xiao Yichen led Lin Wan'er by the hand and slowly entered the bridal chamber. His heart pounded involuntarily; a tension he had never felt even when facing thousands of troops on the battlefield now spread through his heart. Lin Wan'er was also extremely shy. She lowered her head slightly, letting Xiao Yichen lead her, her face beneath the red veil already burning hot.
After entering the bridal chamber, Xiao Yichen gently released Lin Wan'er's hand, walked to the table, and picked up the steelyard balance placed to the side. This steelyard balance was made of precious ebony, its shaft straight and finely engraved with markings, its tip inlaid with a round red agate that gleamed alluringly in the candlelight. Xiao Yichen took a deep breath, his hands trembling slightly as he raised the steelyard balance and slowly extended it towards Lin Wan'er's red veil.
His movements were gentle and cautious, as if handling the most precious treasure in the world. As the scale rod gently lifted a corner of the red veil, Lin Wan'er's exquisite face was gradually revealed before Xiao Yichen's eyes. In the flickering candlelight, her eyes sparkled like stars, her brows curved with endless shyness and tenderness; her cheeks were flushed, like peach blossoms blooming in spring; the slightly upturned corners of her mouth carried a faint smile, instantly captivating Xiao Yichen.
"Wan'er, you are so beautiful..." Xiao Yichen murmured to himself, his voice filled with deep affection and love.
Lin Wan'er raised her head, her gaze meeting Xiao Yichen's. The deep affection in his eyes eased her tension slightly. "You're always saying sweet nothings," she said softly, her voice as melodious as a nightingale's.
Xiao Yichen put down the scales, walked to Lin Wan'er's side, and gently held her shoulders. "Wan'er, these are not sweet words, but my true feelings. From the first moment I saw you, I was attracted by your beauty and talent. To be able to marry you today is the greatest fortune of my life."
A warm feeling welled up in Lin Wan'er's heart. She turned slightly and picked up the nuptial wine that had been prepared on the table. The two exquisite wine cups were connected by a red string, and the cups were filled with fragrant wine. The aroma of the wine filled the air and became increasingly rich.
Lin Wan'er handed a cup of wine to Xiao Yichen, while she picked up another cup for herself. "Yichen, today we drink this nuptial wine, which symbolizes that we are now one, bound together in life and death."
Xiao Yichen took the wine glass, crossed his arm with Lin Wan'er's, and the two exchanged a glance before slowly drinking the wine. The liquid slid down their throats, carrying a hint of spiciness and sweetness, just like their current mood—a mixture of anticipation and longing for the future, and a touch of trepidation about the unknown.
After drinking the nuptial wine, Xiao Yichen pulled Lin Wan'er to sit down on the edge of the bed. He gently stroked Lin Wan'er's hair, his gaze tender yet ardent. "Wan'er, I know you have sacrificed a lot for today. But please believe me, I will definitely give you a happy and fulfilling home, so that you can live carefree in the General's Mansion."
Lin Wan'er leaned on Xiao Yichen's shoulder and whispered, "Yichen, I believe in you. As long as I'm with you, I won't be afraid of any difficulties we encounter."
The two nestled together quietly, enjoying this rare moment of peace and warmth. However, it was, after all, their wedding night, and a sense of shyness and nervousness still lingered between them.
After a moment, Xiao Yichen broke the silence first. "Wan'er, I... I'm a little nervous," he said shyly.
Lin Wan'er looked up at Xiao Yichen's slightly embarrassed face and couldn't help but chuckle. "You were so brave and fearless on the battlefield, why are you so nervous now?"
Xiao Yichen scratched his head and said, "I can handle matters on the battlefield with ease. But on our wedding night, facing you, I don't know what to do..."
Lin Wan'er's cheeks flushed again. She lowered her head and said softly, "And what about me..."
The two looked at each other and smiled, their tension dissipating considerably in the laughter. Xiao Yichen mustered his courage, gently lifted Lin Wan'er's chin, and then slowly lowered his head to kiss her lips.
Lin Wan'er closed her eyes slightly, her heart pounding like a deer. She could feel Xiao Yichen's warm breath and soft lips; for a moment, the whole world seemed to stand still.
The kiss was tender and affectionate, as if it contained all their love and promises to each other. After a long while, they slowly separated, their eyes filled with shyness and sweetness.
"Wan'er, I love you," Xiao Yichen said affectionately.
“I love you too, Yichen,” Lin Wan’er replied.
Then, Xiao Yichen stood up, walked to the window, and gently pushed it open. A cool night breeze blew in, bringing the fragrance of flowers from the courtyard. Gazing at the moonlit courtyard outside the window, he was filled with emotion.
"Wan'er, look how beautiful the moonlight is. Just like our love, pure and beautiful," Xiao Yichen said.
Lin Wan'er walked to Xiao Yichen's side and looked out the window with him. "Yes, I hope we can be as enduring as this moonlight."
On their wedding night, Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er poured out their love to each other, sharing their dreams and aspirations. They knew that from this moment on, they would face life's joys and sorrows together, walking hand in hand through every stage of their lives.
As night deepened, drowsiness gradually crept over both of them. Xiao Yichen pulled Lin Wan'er back to the bedside and gently covered her with the blanket.
"Wan'er, go to sleep. There are still many things to do tomorrow," Xiao Yichen said.
Lin Wan'er nodded, closed her eyes, and gradually drifted off to sleep with Xiao Yichen by her side. Xiao Yichen quietly watched Lin Wan'er's sleeping face, his heart filled with happiness and contentment. He silently vowed to protect this woman with his entire life, ensuring her eternal happiness.
The soft morning light filtered through the cracks in the window, gently illuminating the bridal chamber. On the carved dragon and phoenix bed, Lin Wan'er stirred slightly in her sleep, her long eyelashes fluttering gently before she slowly opened her eyes. For a moment, she was somewhat dazed; the unfamiliar bed and room furnishings momentarily stunned her. But soon, memories of yesterday's wedding and the fact that she was now a wife flooded her mind, and a shy blush crept onto her cheeks.
She turned to look beside her; Xiao Yichen was still fast asleep, his sleeping face peaceful and serene, his sword-like eyebrows relaxed, and a faint smile seemingly lingering at the corners of his mouth. A tender feeling welled up in Lin Wan'er's heart. She quietly got up, not wanting to disturb him.
New clothes were already prepared by the bedside. Lin Wan'er picked up a light pink silk dress, its fabric soft and delicate, with exquisite plum blossom patterns embroidered on the cuffs and collar, exuding elegance and freshness. She gently removed her nightgown, put on the silk dress, and simply combed her hair, tying it into a loose bun with only a jade hairpin.
After tidying herself up, Lin Wan'er looked at the hourglass on the table, estimating the time. It was time to pay her respects to her parents-in-law. She took a deep breath, feeling both nervous and determined. She knew that maintaining a good relationship with her parents-in-law was crucial in this general's mansion.
Lin Wan'er gently pushed open the door and stepped into the courtyard. The general's mansion was peaceful and serene in the early morning. The flowers and plants in the courtyard, glistening with dewdrops, shimmered in the sunlight. The air was filled with a faint fragrance of flowers and the fresh scent of earth.
She walked along the winding path, encountering several maids along the way. The maids hurriedly bowed, their eyes filled with curiosity and awe. Lin Wan'er nodded slightly in acknowledgment, a gentle smile on her face, trying her best to appear kind and approachable.
Before long, Lin Wan'er arrived outside the main hall where Xiao's parents lived. She stopped, straightened her skirt, took a deep breath, and calmed her nervous emotions. Then, she gently stepped into the main hall.
Inside the main hall, Mr. and Mrs. Xiao were seated at the head of the table, enjoying tea. Mr. Xiao Yuanshan was still dressed in a dignified dark robe, his gaze deep and composed; Mrs. Xiao wore a royal blue brocade dress, her hair neatly tied up and adorned with a jade hairpin, making her appear elegant and graceful.
Lin Wan'er strode into the hall, knelt down, and performed a standard greeting. "Your daughter-in-law greets your parents-in-law, wishing you a good morning and good health." Her voice was clear and melodious, her tone gentle and respectful.
Madam Xiao was the first to smile, put down her teacup, and said, "Wan'er, get up, there's no need to be so formal."
Lin Wan'er slowly stood up, bowed her head slightly, and placed her hands folded in front of her.
Father Xiao nodded slightly and said, "Wan'er, are you getting used to your new life in the General's Mansion?"
Lin Wan'er quickly replied, "Thank you for your concern, Father-in-law. Everything is fine at the General's Mansion, and I like it very much."
Madam Xiao smiled and beckoned Lin Wan'er closer, taking her hand and saying, "Wan'er, now that you've married into the Xiao family, you're one of us. If you ever feel wronged or encounter any difficulties in the future, just tell us. Don't worry about it."
Lin Wan'er felt a warmth in her heart and said, "Thank you for your care, parents-in-law. I will serve you wholeheartedly, treat Yichen with respect, and live up to your expectations."
At this moment, Madam Xiao looked at the maid beside her and said, "Go and bring up the snacks prepared in the kitchen. Wan'er must be hungry too."
The maid responded and quickly brought out several plates of exquisite pastries. There were soft and sweet osmanthus cakes, with a pale golden color and a rich osmanthus fragrance; there were crisp and delicious lotus flower pastries, shaped like blooming lotus flowers, with layers of flaky pastry wrapping sweet fillings; and there were crystal dumplings, with the tender pink meat filling and bright green scallions visible through the thin dumpling skin.
Mother Xiao picked up a piece of osmanthus cake and handed it to Lin Wan'er, saying, "Wan'er, try this osmanthus cake. It's a specialty of the chefs in the manor."
Lin Wan'er took the cake with both hands, took a small bite, and the soft and glutinous texture and the sweet fragrance of osmanthus blossoms filled her mouth. She couldn't help but exclaim, "In-laws, this osmanthus cake is truly delicious. I have never tasted such a delicious dessert before."
Mother Xiao smiled and said, "If you like it, just have the cook make it often in the future."
While enjoying the snacks, Xiao's mother and Lin Wan'er chatted casually. Xiao's mother inquired about Lin Wan'er's living habits and preferences in the Prime Minister's residence, and Lin Wan'er answered truthfully and graciously, which pleased Xiao's mother even more.
Mr. Xiao would occasionally chime in with a few words or ask for his insights on poetry, calligraphy, and painting, to which Lin Wan'er responded with ease, revealing her intelligence and talent.
After chatting for a while, Madam Xiao said, "Wan'er, you will have to take care of the household affairs from now on. Although there is a steward to help, as the mistress of the house, you still need to pay close attention."
Lin Wan'er nodded slightly and said, "I understand, and I will study hard to live up to my parents-in-law's trust."
Madam Xiao gave some instructions on managing the servants and some rules and customs of the mansion. Lin Wan'er listened attentively and occasionally raised some of her own questions and ideas to discuss with Madam Xiao.
Just then, Xiao Yichen rushed over. He was wearing a moon-white robe, and his hair was a little messy, clearly indicating that he had gotten up in a hurry to come.
"Father, Mother, Wan'er, I'm sorry I'm late," Xiao Yichen said with some guilt.
Mr. Xiao frowned slightly and said, "Yichen, you are already a married man. You must not be so lazy in the future. You need to act like a husband."
Xiao Yichen quickly nodded in agreement, looking at Lin Wan'er with concern and tenderness in his eyes.
Lin Wan'er gently shook her head, indicating that he was alright.
Mother Xiao said with a smile, "Alright, now that everyone is here, let's have breakfast together."
Everyone sat around the table, which was laden with a sumptuous breakfast. There was steaming hot white porridge, thick and creamy, with a faint aroma of rice; various delicate side dishes, such as crisp pickled radishes, which were refreshing and sweet and sour; and golden-brown fried eggs, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
During breakfast, Xiao Yichen frequently served food to Lin Wan'er, his eyes filled with undisguised affection. Lin Wan'er lowered her head shyly, but her heart was overflowing with sweetness.
Watching the young couple interact, Mr. and Mrs. Xiao were filled with joy. They knew that this marriage was a good match, and now it seemed that the two were also very much in love. They were certain that the General's Mansion would prosper even more in the future.
After breakfast, Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er bid farewell to their parents. Hand in hand, they strolled through the courtyard of the General's Mansion, enjoying this moment of tranquility and sweetness.
"Wan'er, were you nervous when I wasn't here?" Xiao Yichen asked.
Lin Wan'er gently punched him and said, "What do you think? This is my first time greeting my parents-in-law, how can I not be nervous? But my parents-in-law are very kind and treat me very well."
Xiao Yichen smiled and embraced Lin Wan'er, saying, "That's good. I was just worried you'd suffer. With me here, I'll make sure you don't suffer the slightest grievance."
Lin Wan'er nestled in Xiao Yichen's arms, feeling his warmth and love, her heart filled with happiness and peace. She knew that although there were unknown challenges and responsibilities in this general's mansion, as long as Xiao Yichen was by her side, she had nothing to fear.
After a brief moment of intimacy with Xiao Yichen in the courtyard, Lin Wan'er's curiosity about the General's Mansion grew even stronger. She looked up at Xiao Yichen with bright eyes and said, "Yichen, I'd like to take a good look at our General's Mansion, is that alright?"
Looking at her expectant expression, Xiao Yichen felt a surge of affection and nodded without hesitation, saying, "Of course, Wan'er, I'll take you around now." With that, he took Lin Wan'er's hand and walked towards one side of the courtyard.
They first arrived at the general's mansion garden. At the entrance to the garden was an exquisitely designed archway made of green bamboo. The bamboo branches intertwined and were entwined with emerald green vines, on which bloomed a few unknown wildflowers. A gentle breeze blew, and the flowers swayed softly, emitting a faint fragrance.
Passing through the archway felt like entering another world. The garden was a riot of color, with flowers blooming in vibrant hues. There were peonies, their blossoms large and delicate, their petals layered upon each other, some as red as fire, some as pink as the sunset, and some as white as snow—a magnificent and noble sight, truly deserving of the title "King of Flowers." There were also delicate jasmine flowers, their small white blossoms clustered together, emitting a refreshing and invigorating fragrance that lingered in the air, bringing a sense of peace and tranquility. And there were also noble and aloof irises, their blue-purple petals as light as a kite's tail, trembling gently in the breeze, as if telling a mysterious story.
The garden features winding paths paved with colorful pebbles, each smooth and rounded, shimmering in the sunlight. Neatly trimmed low shrubs line both sides of the paths, standing like loyal guardians protecting the garden.
In the center of the garden stands a small, exquisite pavilion. Its octagonal roof features upturned eaves and bracket sets, and its glazed tiles shimmer with iridescent colors in the sunlight. Inside, there is a stone table and benches, with a beautifully carved chessboard on the table, clearly a place for people to rest and play chess.
Xiao Yichen led Lin Wan'er into the pavilion and said, "Wan'er, we can come here often in the future to enjoy tea, admire the flowers, and play a game of chess. It would be quite pleasant."
Lin Wan'er smiled and nodded, saying, "Yes, this place is truly beautiful, like a paradise on earth."
After leaving the pavilion, they continued along the path into the depths of the garden. Here lay a tranquil lake, its waters crystal clear, revealing the sand and pebbles at the bottom and the swimming fish. On the lake's surface, lotus leaves stretched out, clustered together like large, round, emerald-green plates. Lotus blossoms peeked out from among the leaves; some were still buds, shyly awaiting bloom, like bashful maidens; others were half-open, like women hesitant to open their eyes; and still others were in full bloom, like graceful fairies dancing in the gentle breeze.
In the center of the lake stands an artificial mountain. The mountain is filled with strangely shaped rocks, some resembling galloping horses, others eagles spreading their wings, and still others meditating monks. A clear spring flows gently down the mountain, splashing into the lake and creating sparkling droplets that produce a clear, melodious sound, like heavenly music.
"The scenery of this lake and mountains is truly breathtaking," Lin Wan'er exclaimed.
Seeing Lin Wan'er's happy expression, Xiao Yichen was also filled with joy and said, "This lake was one of my favorite places when I was a child. I often played here and even caught fish in the lake."
Lin Wan'er imagined Xiao Yichen's mischievous childhood self and couldn't help but laugh, saying, "You must have been very naughty when you were little."
Xiao Yichen scratched his head sheepishly and said, "Yes, I was young and ignorant back then and caused my parents a lot of worry."
After visiting the garden, they arrived at the study in the general's mansion. The study was located on the east side of the mansion and was a separate building. The door to the study was tightly closed, but Xiao Yichen gently pushed it open, and a faint fragrance of books wafted out.
The study was spacious and bright, with tall bookshelves lining both sides, filled with all sorts of books: military strategy, poetry, historical classics, medical and pharmacological texts, and more—a dazzling array. The bookshelves were exquisitely crafted from precious rosewood, adorned with intricate carvings of dragons and phoenixes, plum blossoms, orchids, bamboo, chrysanthemums, landscapes, flowers, and birds—each carving lifelike, showcasing the cultural depth and refined taste of the General's Mansion.
In the center of the study stood a huge desk. Made from a single piece of sandalwood, its texture was hard and its grain clear. The desk was fully equipped with the Four Treasures of the Study: various writing brushes hung on a brush holder—sheep hair, wolf hair, and mixed hair brushes, all with sharp, flexible tips; the ink sticks were fine-textured and emitted a faint fragrance; the inkstone was a precious Duan inkstone, its stone warm and smooth, producing ink with a breath; and the Xuan paper was as white as snow, soft and smooth.
On one side of the desk is a comfortable armchair. The backrest and armrests of the armchair are carved with exquisite patterns, and the seat is covered with a soft cushion, making it very comfortable to sit on.
Xiao Yichen walked to the bookshelf, picked up a book, and said, "Wan'er, look, these books are what I've collected over the years, many of them are rare and unique editions. If you like, feel free to read them here."
Lin Wan'er stepped forward, looking at the books with delight in her eyes, and said, "Yichen, you are truly a book lover. These books are priceless treasures."
Xiao Yichen smiled and said, "In my opinion, the value of these books lies not in their rarity, but in the knowledge and wisdom they contain. I hope we can read and learn together here and make progress together."
Lin Wan'er nodded and said, "Okay, I'd be happy to."
Next, they arrived at the general's mansion's training ground. Located on the west side of the mansion, the training ground covered a vast area, its surface paved with hard bluestone, flat and solid. Around the training ground were various weapon racks, displaying all eighteen types of weapons: knives, spears, swords, halberds, axes, battle-axes, hooks, forks, etc., each weapon gleaming coldly and incredibly sharp.
In the center of the training ground stands a circular arena. The edges of the arena are wrapped with hemp rope for protection. Traces of training remain on the arena, indicating the rigorous training that took place there.
Xiao Yichen stepped onto the arena, picked up a longsword, and said, "Wan'er, let me demonstrate my swordsmanship for you." With that, he wielded his sword, his moves fierce and powerful. His figure darted across the arena, his longsword like a silver streak, slicing through the air, sometimes thrusting, sometimes parrying, sometimes cleaving, sometimes hacking—each move brimming with immense power and exquisite skill.
Lin Wan'er stood below the stage, watching Xiao Yichen's brilliant performance, her heart filled with admiration and affection. She knew that Xiao Yichen was not only a talented scholar, but also a brave and fearless military general.
After demonstrating his swordsmanship, Xiao Yichen jumped off the stage, walked to Lin Wan'er's side, and said, "Wan'er, have you ever learned martial arts?"
Lin Wan'er shook her head and said, "I only know a little about self-defense, and I'm far inferior to you."
Xiao Yichen smiled and said, "It's alright, I can teach you. If you encounter danger in the future, you will be able to protect yourself."
Lin Wan'er felt a warmth in her heart and said, "Okay, then I'll trouble you."
Afterwards, they visited other parts of the General's Mansion, such as the kitchen, warehouse, and stables. At each location, Xiao Yichen patiently explained things to Lin Wan'er, giving her a deeper understanding of the General's Mansion.
Before they knew it, the sun had gradually begun to set in the west, and the sky was tinged with orange-red. Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er strolled along the paths of the General's Mansion, reflecting on what they had seen and heard that day.
"Wan'er, are you tired after visiting so many places today?" Xiao Yichen asked with concern.
Lin Wan'er smiled and said, "I'm not tired. I'm very happy today. I've seen so many beautiful and interesting places in the General's Mansion."
Xiao Yichen embraced Lin Wan'er and said, "As long as you're happy. We'll have plenty of time in the future to explore every corner of the General's Mansion."
Lin Wan'er nestled in Xiao Yichen's arms, feeling his warmth and love, her heart filled with happiness and contentment. She knew that endless beauty awaited them in this general's mansion, and that their love would take root, sprout, and flourish here.
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