Xia Yuqing adjusted her sleeve, sheathed her dagger, and stepped out of the alley. The night was alive with golden lanterns swaying gently in the breeze. Beautiful, soft golden light reflected off the river like scattered stars.
The air buzzed with laughter and the cheerful voices of people. Lovers and children wandered through the bustling streets, admiring the delicate silk lanterns swaying above them in celebration of the Lantern Festival.
The scent of roasted chestnuts and sweet rice cakes filled the air, mingling with the faint perfume of blooming plum blossoms. Street performers played lively tunes on flutes and drums, while dancers in flowing robes twirled gracefully beneath the lantern-lit sky.
Children ran around, holding tiny lanterns shaped like rabbits and fish, their eyes sparkling with excitement. Couples strolled side by side, whispering wishes as they released sky lanterns, watching them drift higher and higher, carrying their hopes into the heavens.
