Moonlit Reunion [子夜归]

Chapter 1

Late spring in Chang'an. The elm and locust trees planted throughout the city were already lush with green leaves, releasing a fresh scent of greenery under the midday sun.

Down the wide, straight, and somewhat empty main street, seven or eight horses galloped quickly. Riding atop them were a group of bright-eyed young men and women, each radiating joy as they scattered laughter and cheer along their way.

Leading the group was a chestnut horse ridden by someone dressed in a dark red robe embroidered with gold floral designs and wearing black leather boots. Though dressed in a man's robe, her graceful curves and striking features unmistakably indicated she was no young lord but a noble lady. Instead of a man's black gauze head-wrap, her hair was arranged in a simple woman's bun. Despite the unconventional outfit, she carried herself with an unusual allure—a blend of elegance and charm that captured every eye.

Following her were two other women, also on horseback, though they were dressed in typical women's attire. The only bold touch to their appearance was the absence of the veiled hats usually worn to cover their faces. The rest of the group were young men, all appearing around eighteen or nineteen, while the lady in front seemed slightly older, perhaps in her early twenties.

The group galloped past several neighborhoods, as the streets grew busier and the sounds of the lively city reached them from afar. Soon, the West Market gate came into view, and they slowed their pace as they entered, brushing past foreign merchants with caravans of camels and fragrant goods.

The East and West Markets were the liveliest places in Chang'an, especially in the afternoon, with shops open and crowds bustling. West Market, in particular, was a gathering spot for foreign traders—bearded men with high noses and unusual clothing, fair-skinned women with veils over delicate faces, and tall, dark-skinned men, all a familiar sight.

A medley of languages filled the air, mingling with the calls of vendors, the murmur of the crowd, and the jingle of carriages, making West Market even more vibrant. The group of young nobles arrived at a grand mansion with white walls, black tiles, and red pillars. Servants came to greet them, took their horses, and led them inside—clearly familiar with these aristocratic youths.

This place was the largest music house in the West Market, renowned for its skilled musicians, expert pipa players, and many graceful dancers and singers. New performances were staged monthly, making it a favorite leisure spot for the elite of Chang'an.

The group followed the leading lady into the mansion, their lively chatter filling the air as they ascended to a small but opulent two-story building. The upper floor was open on all sides, with sheer curtains and bamboo blinds hanging as partitions. Ornate rugs covered the floor, along with a scattering of cushions, low couches, and small tables.

They settled into their usual spots, and the lady in the dark red robe casually took a seat on a low couch, propping up one leg and tapping the bamboo blinds and gauze curtains hanging around them.

"It's too stuffy—roll them all up."

Though summer hadn't arrived, the vigorous riding under the sun had left them warm and slightly sweaty. The waiting servants quickly rolled up the curtains, letting a cool breeze drift in, and placed fresh fruit and various drinks in front of each of them.

"Have the ladies awakened?" someone asked.

A servant replied, "They were exhausted from rehearsing yesterday, so they're running a bit late today. Lady Cai will be here shortly."

Just as the words left his mouth, several graceful women came up carrying instruments like the pipa. Leading them was Lady Cai, who, though not particularly striking in appearance, exuded a friendly warmth. She smiled at everyone gathered and took her seat on a soft cushion to one side.