Chapter 15: Xiangyun Sleeps Among the Peonies
Shi Xiangyun was another cousin of Baoyu, known for her cheerful spirit and boyish manners. Unlike Daiyu, who was always thoughtful and sad, Xiangyun laughed easily and enjoyed every moment of life. She had lost her parents when she was young, but she never let sorrow control her heart.
One warm afternoon, the young people held a party in the garden to celebrate the blooming of the peonies. They drank wine, played games, and wrote poems about the beautiful flowers. Xiangyun was in high spirits, laughing and joking with everyone. She drank more wine than usual and began to feel dizzy.
When the party ended, no one could find Xiangyun. They searched the garden and finally discovered her in a quiet corner. She had fallen asleep on a stone bench, surrounded by fallen peony petals. Her face was pink from the wine, and her hands held a half-open fan. The scene was so beautiful that everyone stopped to admire it.
"Look at her," Baochai whispered with a smile. "She is like a painting come to life." Baoyu gently covered her with his coat to protect her from the cool breeze. No one wanted to wake her, for she looked so peaceful among the flowers.
Xiangyun's sleep among the peonies became one of the most beloved memories of their youth. It captured a moment of pure joy and innocence, before the storms of life would change everything. For those who saw it, the image would remain in their hearts forever.