Chapter 150

The lanterns were just being lit as the night was yet young; old dreams lingered faintly in the cool breeze of Jiangnan. Deep within the bluestone lanes, lanterns at the eaves swayed like stars, their candlelight casting a soft halo over the carved window lattices. A evening breeze swept past the bamboo fence, carrying a wisp of ink fragrance drifting from the study, weaving together with the crisp chime of the copper bells under the eaves to create a harmonious melody. Ascending the steps, one saw old locust trees casting deep shade in the courtyard, the moonlight filtering through the branches to weave a carpet of silver gauze on the ground. A graceful beauty leaned against the railing, drinking alone. As her plain sleeves gently rose, her wine cup reflected the starlight as if she were holding a pool of the Milky Way.