People’s faces were radiant with contentment and happiness. Sounds of laughter and cheerful chatter rose one after another, as if the entire world were warmed by this deep sense of kinship. Children had long been unable to wait to pick up a sweet mooncake, taking a bite to savor its delicate texture; the elders, meanwhile, slowly relished the taste of home, every mouthful an expression of praise for a good life and a deep longing for their loved ones.
At the border, however, as night fell, the moonlight shone like water, casting a tranquil scene. Yet, hidden beneath this calm surface was a heart-stopping crisis.
Xiaoran stood on the city wall, looking out into the distance, a sense of unease welling up within him. Just as he was deep in thought, Linghu Ji from Feiyu hurried over to report: "Young Master Xiao, General Hu led two thousand men out this morning and has yet to return."
Chapter 203