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Chapter 1200: New Year
Chapter 1200: New Year
Chapter 1200: New Year
Editor: Henyee Translations
After the New Year, the entire capital transformed into a bustling hub of activity. Countless banquets, gatherings, and social events colored the city’s atmosphere, creating a whirlwind of busyness.
After a few days of returning to her routine work, she began to regain a sense of normalcy, which brought about a slight improvement in her mood.
Qiao Xuan found herself attending various gatherings and banquets within a 500-meter radius for the first time during the New Year, and everything went smoothly. She encountered no issues whatsoever.
One notable factor contributing to this was Shao Yunduan’s elevated status. Under the guidance of Minister Old Yun, Shao Yunduan had risen from an ordinary scholar to an outstanding one. This transformation rendered him immune to any belittlement or discussions about his background, as doing so would be an affront to Minister Old Yun’s discerning taste.
Disparaging the esteemed Minister Old Yun would mean declaring oneself an adversary of scholars across the realm.
Furthermore, Shao Yunduan’s reputation was bolstered by the high regard of the Crown Prince, leading many to seek his acquaintance rather than shun him.
Qiao Xuan, as his spouse, felt fortunate beyond measure.
Additionally, Qiao Xuan presented gifts to Shao Yunduan’s seniors and colleagues from the Crown Prince’s family.
These offerings were met with great appreciation due to their opulence and practicality.
A young and promising officer held in high esteem by the Crown Prince, Shao Yunduan displayed thoughtfulness and respect toward senior family members. Who wouldn’t admire such a junior? Who wouldn’t want to assist her?
Hence, wherever Qiao Xuan ventured, someone would introduce her to others and share tidbits of gossip.
After a brief respite, Qiao Xuan spent two days resting at home.
Upon hearing the madames discuss the upcoming Lantern Festival, she couldn’t help but feel excitement bubble within her.
Mentioning the event to Shao Yunduan, he responded with a smile. “I’ve heard that the lantern market is a bustling spectacle. I’ll accompany you.”
With a smile, Qiao Xuan nodded. “Indeed, we must acquire some lanterns as well.”
“Alright, let’s go ahead and buy the lanterns!”
On the day of the Lantern Festival, they enjoyed a simple dinner at home before setting out.
In the capital, grand festivals like this were a rarity, so Lixia, Liqiu, and Songshi all joined in the festivities.
Shao Yunduan instructed Songshi to stay close to Lixia and Liqiu to prevent them from getting separated.
As for himself and Qiao Xuan, they didn’t need to be accompanied by these bothersome individuals.
Immersed in the crowd, the two of them navigated through the lantern-lit streets. Qiao Xuan couldn’t help but draw parallels to the modern train stations where people bustled about, evoking a sense of nostalgia she hadn’t felt since arriving in this new world.
“Look at the crowd!”
Shao Yunduan arched an eyebrow. Did he hear correctly? It almost sounded like his wife was delightfully captivated by the thronging masses.
He tightened his grip on Qiao Xuan’s hand, guiding her closer to his side. “Stay close to me.”
The lanterns illuminated the surroundings with intricate brilliance. Various shapes and designs adorned the lanterns, occasionally capturing the attention of onlookers and eliciting admiration and praise.
After traversing a long, wide street, they arrived at an expansive square adorned with massive flower-shaped lanterns, each standing two or three meters tall. Among these were colossal flower baskets, an eight-sided revolving door, musical chairs, the Moon Palace’s Chang’e, the auspicious Qilin beast, blooming lotus flowers, carps leaping over dragon gates, the Eight Immortals crossing the sea, and more. The luminous display dazzled, reflecting an array of vivid colors that enticed countless individuals to pause, gaze, and offer commentary in awe.
All they needed was a camera to take a picture!