Explore Chapter 20 of 'Moment in Peking' with the original Chinese text, English translation, detailed Chinese vocabulary explanations, and audio of the Chinese original. Listen and improve your reading skills.
The day of the engagement was chosen as an auspicious one. After discussions between the Zeng and Yao families, it was decided to formalize the betrothal of Mulan and Sunya. Mulan's father, Yao Si'an, had some reservations about the match, but recalling the Zeng family's life-saving kindness to Mulan and considering that Sunya was a clever and bright young man, he gave his consent.
The engagement ceremony took place at the Zeng residence, grand and joyous. Mulan wore a new peach-pink embroidered cheongsam, her hair braided into a glossy pigtail that fell over her shoulder. She sat on a chair, hands resting on her knees, head lowered, listening to the adults' conversations. Sunya, dressed in a new blue silk robe, stood to the side, stealing glances at Mulan, his heart both excited and nervous.
Mrs. Zeng took Mulan's hand with a beaming smile and said, "Mulan, from now on, you are one of the Zeng family." Mulan's face flushed instantly, and she replied softly, "Thank you, Mother." Madame Yao, watching from the side, felt both happiness and a twinge of reluctance.
After the engagement, the bond between Mulan and Sunya naturally grew closer. They would often stroll together in the back garden, discussing poetry and literature, or sit on stone benches listening to Sunya play the flute. Mulan felt that although Sunya could be mischievous at times, he was kind-hearted and very considerate toward her.
Yet, sometimes Mulan's thoughts would drift to Mannia. The marriage of Mannia and Pingya was also soon to be arranged, and the two sisters had agreed to always keep in close touch. Mulan knew that after marrying into the Zeng family, she and Mannia would become sisters-in-law, a prospect that filled her with anticipation for the life ahead.