Chapter 46: Sharing the Splendid View, Heart-Warming Solace
After enduring countless hardships and strenuous efforts, the surrounding county town finally broke free from the shackles of adversity, regaining its vitality and vigor.
To reward the soldiers who had steadfastly remained at their posts and fought valiantly through those difficult times, and to show compassion for the weather-beaten common folk, Li Chengyin and Xiaofeng consulted with one another and decided to host a grand celebration.
It was late spring, and both inside and outside the county town were embraced by a lush, verdant vibrancy.
In the fields outside the city walls, the grass was like a verdant carpet and flowers bloomed in splendid brocade. As a gentle breeze swept across, the sea of flowers rippled in colorful waves, releasing a rich and lingering fragrance, as if nature itself had prepared a congratulatory gift for this grand event.
The trees within the city had sprouted tender green buds, glistening with the luster of life under the sunlight, seemingly whispering tales of joyous rebirth.
As soon as the news spread, the entire county town buzzed with excitement.
Hearing the tidings, the townspeople spontaneously took action, hanging lanterns and festooning colorful streamers to give every street and alley a brand-new look.
Red lanterns hung from every eaves, resembling ripe red berries swaying gently in the breeze; multi-colored silk ribbons fluttered in the wind like brilliant rainbows spanning across the streets, complementing the surrounding green trees and red blossoms to paint a breathtaking picture.
Children ran and played excitedly through the streets and lanes, holding homemade small colored flags. Their ringing laughter echoed endlessly, crisp like the birdsong of spring, adding a touch of liveliness to the bustling atmosphere. Women gathered together, meticulously preparing various delicacies and drinks, filling the air with enticing aromas that intertwined with the scents of flowers and grass in every corner of the town. Men busily erected stages and arranged tables and chairs, their faces beaming with joy and anticipation, beads of sweat on their brows gleaming crystal-clear in the sunlight.
Watching the overwhelming enthusiasm of the people, Li Chengyin and Xiaofeng felt a profound sense of gratification.
That evening, as the lingering rays of the setting sun gradually spilled across the earth, casting a golden veil over the entire county town, the grand celebration officially commenced.
The city square was brilliantly illuminated, packed with a bustling crowd of people, presenting a scene of extraordinary liveliness.
The soldiers stood in neat rows on one side, upright and high-spirited. Though their faces still bore traces of fatigue, their eyes shone with pride and relief.
Their armor gleamed with a cold light under the illumination, forming a striking contrast with the surrounding merriment yet blending into it harmoniously, like a phalanx of iron guardians protecting this revelry.
The townspeople gathered all around, their gazes filled with gratitude and reverence for Li Chengyin and Xiaofeng. Their eyes were bright and burning, resembling the glittering stars in the night sky.
Li Chengyin, dressed in an ornate brocade robe, stood tall and majestic, radiating an extraordinary presence.
He slowly walked up to the stage, surveyed the audience, and then began to speak:
"Brave soldiers and dear townspeople, through these arduous times, we have fought shoulder to shoulder and weathered countless hardships together. Now, looking at this revived Yuxian County and seeing the smiles upon everyone's faces, I know deeply that none of this would have been possible without everyone's individual effort and dedication. Today belongs to all of us—this celebration is for everyone!"
His voice was resonant and powerful, echoing across the square and drawing thunderous applause and cascading cheers from the audience below. The sound rolled like a surging tide, wave after wave, lingering long in the air.
Following that, brilliant performances unfolded one after another. Dancers clad in resplendent garments drifted gracefully across the stage, their movements as light and elegant as ethereal fairies descending to the mortal realm.
Around the stage, several peach trees swayed in the breeze, scattering pink petals like dancing sprites accompanying the performers in a dreamlike vision. Vocalists raised their voices in song, melodious and captivating, expressing humanity's yearning and aspiration for a better life. The singing drifted into the night sky, drawing answering calls from birds in the distant woods, resembling a concert co-created by nature and mankind. Acrobats displayed breathtaking skills, their thrilling feats drawing gasps of awe and bursts of cheers from the spectators. They leapt and tumbled high in the air like shooting stars streaking across the night sky.
Amidst the bustling festivities, Li Chengyin and Xiaofeng quietly slipped away from the crowd and ascended to a tranquil rooftop. Sitting side by side, they quietly gazed at the myriad lights glowing before them.
A gentle breeze swept by, stirring their hair and bringing a touch of coolness that dispelled the lingering fatigue in their hearts.
Li Chengyin turned his head slightly to look at Xiaofeng beside him. Her face appeared exceptionally gentle under the lantern light, resembling a blossom in full spring bloom.
Sensing his gaze, Xiaofeng turned her head, and the two exchanged a mutual smile where words were superfluous.
Li Chengyin gently took Xiaofeng's hand, feeling the warmth emanating from her palm.
His thoughts inevitably drifted back to the bits and pieces of the past—the hardships and life-or-death trials they had braved together, which had now transformed into the most cherished memories within his heart.
He knew well that throughout this long journey, Xiaofeng had remained faithfully by his side, bestowing upon him strength and support, ensuring he never retreated or cowered when faced with overwhelming difficulties.
In the distance, the croaking of frogs floated from a pond, intertwining with the laughter from the city to compose a unique nocturnal serenade.
Xiaofeng tilted her head slightly, gazing at the twinkling stars in the night sky.
Looking upon the prosperous scene before her, her heart overflowed with joy, knowing that this prosperity was also the fruit of her own labor.
"Li Chengyin, look, all of this is the result of our hard work," Xiaofeng said softly, a trace of pride coloring her voice.
Li Chengyin nodded slightly and replied, "Indeed, Xiaofeng. It is fortunate that you have been by my side."
They sat quietly together upon the roof, watching the townspeople immersed in joy and the soldiers beaming with smiles, feeling an incomparable peace and contentment in their hearts.
In this fleeting moment of tranquility, they cast aside all exhaustion and worries, savoring only the rare warmth and beauty before them.
They knew that storms might still await them in the future, but as long as they walked hand in hand, they would surely be able to protect this land, safeguard the countless glowing hearths, and ensure that the people of the Li Dynasty could live peaceful and happy lives.