On the night of the Lantern Festival, a tranquil spring evening lingered.
The chilly winds of winter had not yet fully receded, and Xie Lian trudged along the roadside, a heavy bag slung over his shoulder, his cheeks lightly reddened by the wind.
Within the bag were a jumble of items he had just collected; he had no idea if any of them would be useful.
In any case, he would have to rely on this from now on, regardless of its worth.
Before long, he passed a small stall by the street.
The stall was named "He Ji Snacks," selling a few light refreshments.
It appeared that the owner, along with his wife and daughter, sat around a small table tucked away inside.
A slender girl, graceful and somewhat charming, flitted around, busying herself.
The owner called to her to sit down and rest, but she replied, “Just a minute,” her voice like a yellow warbler.
Other tables were occupied by a few customers, though it seemed everyone was simply drawn there for the young lady, chatting briefly before heading home.
After all, today was the Lantern Festival.
In front of the stall was a little pot, bubbling with round, white, steaming treats, which caused Xie Lian to slow his steps.
He thought to himself, “Tangyuan.”