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#happy mooncake/mid-autumn festival <3

mintjeru · 2 years

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八月十五 -> best mooncake filling-- discuss

open for better quality | no reposts | ID under the cut

[Image description: A chibi drawing of Xiao and Aether celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival. Xiao sits on a stool while holding a stick. A spherical paper lantern hangs off the end by a string. Aether's stool is occupied by a small bunny. Aether walks over to Xiao with a plate of mooncakes to share. Xiao turns towards him. Both are dressed in traditional button-up Chinese clothing.]

#xiao #aether #xiaoaether #genshin impact #genshin #fanart #myart #doodle #as for me i'm a red bean filling apologist #imo salted egg yolk is a default filling #anyway i think xiao would like mooncakes bc lotus paste is soft and mild in flavor #literal caption translation: 8th month 15th (day)#nonliterally it refers to the festival itself #wah i didn't even say it in the beginning but happy mid-autumn festival to those who celebrate!!#on all levels but physical we are sitting together admiring the moon and sharing slices of mooncake #unrelated: i watched my friends play s.platoon 3 for hours yesterday and i've never seen the gameplay before so that was fun

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gomzdrawfr · 7 months

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✧˖°.⁺‧˚ ♡ Happy Mid-Autumn Festival ♡ ˚‧⁺ ✧˖°.

alt version

culture rambles below the cut if you're interested :)

The left row of chinese means Happy Mooncake Festival, which is also another name for Happy Mid-Autumn festival :D

"但愿人长久，千里共婵娟" roughly translate to: "We wish each other a long life to share the beauty of this graceful moonlight, even if we are miles apart" This saying is often used to express longing and love for the people we love that are far apart :]

This event is usually celebrated at night, where family and friends gather around for a reunion :3 The moon is brightest and roundest on this day - "圆" is often used to symbolize fullness and harmony! And then we also do some thanksgiving and praying to be grateful

mooncakes and lanterns!! mooncakes usually have the traditional version and snow skin version (冰皮) lanterns(at my place) is either paper or my fav type - glass paper lanterns! the rabbit one I drew its based off this, often accompany with bright color paint on them :3

nowadays, lanterns are usually electronic with sounds and light! I still prefer the traditional ones tho -w- If you read everything then bless you hehe <3

#gummmyart #gummmyspeaks #doodle #simon ghost riley #john soap mactavish #soapghost #ghostsoap #ghost x soap #soap x ghost #ghostsoap fanart #culture rambles #I hope the ones who celebrate this event have a wonderful night!#stay safe and groovy my dudes

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zhongrin · 2 years

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Rin~! Zhongli is wishing you a Happy Mid Autumn 😍😍

A couple of days before the full moon, he asks you to wear your qipao or if not he’ll gladly prepare a lovely gown for you to wear the night you two go out complimenting how beautiful you look!!

He loves when you take his arm as he escorts you on a cool evening walk around Liyue Harbor where there are dragon dances and lanterns!! At the little pop-up stalls, he’ll buy your favorite snacks and a hair clip which he’ll ask if he can put into your hair (imagine he gifts you one every year as he loves the tradition).

While you find a quiet place to sit away from the festivities and you watch the moon together, he’ll recite several versions of the fabled story. What Zhongli most wants to do is share a moon cake with you whether it is lotus paste or egg yolk filling. When there is a part of the cake you don’t enjoy as much he’ll gladly eat it for you, then teases you for being a picky eater. Both of you might fall asleep in each other’s arms basking in moonlight 😳

oh, kat!!! this is sososososo beautiful 😭 happy mid autumn festival to you too!! did you eat any mooncakes yet? they have so many interesting flavors these days! i ate a "brown sugar bubble milk tea" flavored one yesterday and they have boba bits in the filling lol

zhongli would gladly accompany you around the food fair, smiling as you excitedly sample all the snacks offered by the vendors and obediently letting you feed him without being shy. seeing you stuff your mouth like a squirrel makes him feel all soft and warm, and he'll gladly wipe the food crumbs on the side of your lips, drinking your embarrassed giggle and blush like the finest dessert.

since rabbits are the mascot of mid autumn festivals, what if in liyue harbor they had a bunny petting station in honor of the festival? you think you should've brought your kamera, for the sight of a smiling zhongli calmly stroking a white rabbit on his lap is the perfect picture of tranquility and adorableness.

he'd gladly visit your family with you too! if they live outside liyue harbor, you can count on him to escort you safely there, no need to hire bodyguards from the adventurer's guild. and what family wouldn't love him? your parents love conversing with him ("now, what stories do you have for us today, son?") and your siblings all treat him like a revered older brother regardless of age ("no offense, [name], but it feels like he's way older than any of us sooo..."). your cousins and distant relatives might be a little intimidated by him but when they see that one little boy who's usually so loud and rambunctious in the family gatherings, sleeping so peacefully on his lap, that's it. "you better keep this one" and "is uncle zhongli coming to visit again on the new year's?", they all tell you.

also, you buy him a teapot with bunny ears as its lid in the fair, and he uses it every time he brew his tea now <3

ps. if you want to be removed/added from the taglist, just send an ask!

#genshin impact #genshin impact x reader #genshin x reader #zhongli #zhongli x reader #rin writes

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pokeharvest · 2 years

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happy mid autumn festival! ft. miffy bruce in a hanfu :3

[Image ID: A digitally drawn image of Bruce Wayne from Batman comics as Miffy. There are two drawings of Bruce, one holding a mooncake and one standing normally. In both, he has two strands of black hair. He is also wearing a black cross collared shirt with red trim, a red skirt, a black cloak, and black shoes. Text on the image reads, “Bruce Wayne by pokeharvest”. End ID.]

#bruce wayne #batman #dc #my art #poke things #i really hope i got the details right...i didn't want to get anything wrong so i tried to simplify it #i wish i knew more about hanfus and traditional chinese clothing...i actually got kinda sad making this bc i realized how little i knew :(

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tendaysofrain · 2 years

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“Night of the Fifteenth of the Eighth Month” (八月十五夜) Translation

(Another Mid-Autumn Festival, happy Mooncake Day to all! This post is a bit late but considering how swamped I am with work and life, it’s a miracle I remembered to post here lol....anyway please enjoy!)

Night of the Fifteenth of the Eighth Month (1)

By Yin Wengui (Tang dynasty, 9th century-early 10th century)

Cloudless clear heavens a mirror over the land (2),

Most perfect time for reunions (3) is Mid-Autumn.

Moonlight clinging to my garments a frosty iridescence,

And over the earth an aqueous brillance ready to flow.

Mountainous shadows in the distance chilly with dew,

Raging winds over yonder capping the waves with white.

Since you (4) illuminated my heart’s true thoughts,

The anxious man may have a carefree eve.

—————————-

Notes:

Mid-Autumn Festival falls on the fifteeth day of the eighth month in the lunar calender.

“The land” here is “九州” (Pinyin: jiu3 zhou1) in Chinese, which literally means “nine provinces”. This is a reference to the nine original provinces that were said to make up ancient China pre-Warring States. Since the Warring States period (476-221 BC), the term “jiuzhou” is taken to mean “all of China”, hence my translation of “the land”. Synonyms include 神州/Shenzhou and 中土/Zhongtu. Not to be confused with the Japanese Kyushu, since Kyushu refers to a specific island within Japan, and Jiuzhou is a broad term for the entirety of China.

Reunion here is “团圆/團圓 ” (Pinyin: tuan2 yuan2) in Chinese, where both characters in the word denote “roundness”, and the full moon on the night of the festival is also round. This is partly why the Mid-Autumn Festival is regarded as a holiday for family and friend gatherings.

Here “you” can be interpreted to mean either the moon or a person.

—————————-

Original Text (Traditional Chinese):

《八月十五夜》

[唐] 殷文圭

萬里無雲鏡九州，最團圓夜是中秋。

滿衣冰彩拂不落，遍地水光凝欲流。

華嶽影寒清露掌，海門風急白潮頭。

因君照我丹心事，減得愁人一夕愁。

#my translation #Night of the Fifteenth of the Eighth Month #chinese poetry #poetry #mid autumn festival #midautumnfestival #happy mid autumn festival #八月十五夜 #殷文圭 #中秋节 #中秋节快乐

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winterpower98 · 2 years

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Happy Mid Autumn Festival!!

As a treat here's some favorite moon cake HCs

MK would probably like red bean one's, he just seems like a red bean kinda guy.

Mei would probably like snow skinned one's for its fun colors, as for filling probably ice cream.

Pigsy would go classic lotus seed paste with salty egg yolks, Tang would go lotus seed paste and no yolk because sometimes he wants to see the world burn, other times he'd go with Wuren (五仁)

Sandy would like the tea ones (obviously) but also the floral one's, so like rose flower cakes and stuff. They'd go great with tea :D

I think Red would prefer the flaky skinned moon cakes regardless of filling.

Wukong would definitely go for fruit filled moon cakes, I've only ever tried the strawberry ones but they're pretty good!

Macaque would probably go savory so minced pork with the flaky skin if not he'll probably settle with a cup of tea to go with his moon watching.

Anyways Mid Autumn is basically Chinese Thanksgiving (except nothing like Thanksgiving) so remember everyone, no matter how far you and your potential love ones are apart, if you look up it's the same full moon <3

-💙

Those are some cute headcanons but

NOW I'M EVEN SADDER THAT I CAN'T TRY MOONCAKES

#I want to try them so badly #sobs #lego monkie kid #monkie kid #winter answer #winterpower98

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satoruhour · 7 months

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making winnie the pooh mooncakes for my niece rn and all i’m thinking is making them with nanami <3 Just sweet pure fluff and maybe even getting into a playful flour fight. Happy 中秋节 to those celebrating !

❄️

WHAAATTT THAYS SO CUTE!!! enjoy your mooncake / mid autumn festival! 💟💟🥳 中秋节快乐！

but thays so cuteeee i might write something about it 🥹 he would be So particular abt the measurements but give in when you beg to add a little more filling. “no, darling, it’s going to overflow.” “kento, pleaseeeee?” and he just sighs with a smile. “alright”

hello hello!

#EEEEKKJ #now i wanna write tea ceremony on wedding day gojo #hed be so awkward i swear #asks #❄️ anon

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slurkett · 2 years

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Mid-Autumn Festival, where Chinese people will celebrate the full moon on the 15th day of the 8th month on the Lunar Calendar, happens to fall on September 10th this year. There are a lot of different ways to celebrate this great holiday, such as gathering with friends and family, worshipping the moon and making or buying pretty lanterns. However, Mid-Autumn Festival also celebrates harvest, so food is really important for the coming festival, especially on family gathering. Here are 10 most popular Mid-Autumn Festival foods.

Each of them has a good symbolic meaning with Chinese people’s best wishes.

1. Mooncake — the Must-Eat Food

2. Duck — Related to a Folk Tale

3. Hairy Crab — a Seasonal Festival Delicacy

4. Taro — Bringing Good Luck to you

5. Lotus Roots — Symbolizing Strong Family Bonds

6. River Snails — Assuring a Good Harvest

7. Pumpkins — Bringing Good Health

8. Pears — Invoking a Forever Reunion

9. Pomegranates — A Symbol of Fertility

10. Osmanthus Wine — For a Happy Life

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breadgardenyuzumooncake · 2 years

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Making the Best Mid-Autumn Recipe - Mooncakes

For weeks leading up to the Mid-Autumn festival every year, mooncakes and festival snacks abound. Many of these products were produced weeks ago and imported from places across the globe. If you're living in the United States, finding fresh products to celebrate this year's Mid-Autumn festival can be very difficult. Whether you're celebrating with family and friends, or just looking for some good, traditional Chinese fare, stick around for some Mid-Autumn recipes and tips.

Background

Traditionally celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth month of the Chinese calendar, the Mid-Autumn Festival is a major holiday across China, Taiwan and Vietnam and is rife with traditions and history. As could be expected, food plays a major role in this autumn holiday.

Traditional Foods

One of the most visible and traditional Mid-Autumn recipes on display is often the mooncake. While many varieties exist, traditional mooncakes have a soft outside crust with a sweet, dense filling in the center. Other foods that are enjoyed during this time are things like pumpkin and taro to bring good health and good luck respectively. Other foods include wine with osmanthus flower and river snails, each of these are also tied to lore bringing happiness and bright eyes to those who consume them during the festival.

Simple mooncakes

Making mooncakes along with other Mid-Autumn recipes can be quite a challenge without access to traditional ingredients or mixes. In order to easily make this recipe, stopping by an Asian grocery will help speed up the process. Try to pick up ingredients like golden syrup, alkaline water, melon seeds, along with whatever fillings you're considering for your traditional mooncakes. Another thing that should be picked up at any Asian market is a mooncake mould. They come in a variety of shapes and designs, so pick a few that could add a pleasant variety to your display.

Once you have picked up your ingredients, it's time to make the filling and dough. For the filling to do ratio, consider this ratio 7 parts filling: 3 parts dough. That should give you an idea of how much to make when planning different types of filling.

Filling (feel free to make your own variations):

· 14 oz. (400g Package) Lotus Seed Paste

· 1.5 oz. (around 40g) Melon Seeds

Dough:

· 1 Cup All-Purpose Flour

· 1 / 2 Tsp Alkaline Water

· 5 Tsp Vegetable Oil

· 5 Tbsp Golden Syrup

To make the dough, first mix together the alkaline water with syrup. Stir in the oil and mix until they are completely blended. In a separate bowl, add the flour and make a well where you will stir in the syrup mixture. Mix the dough until it forms a loose dough. From there, knead and shape the dough into a round ball and wrap in plastic wrap. Let this dough refrigerate for at least two hours.

While the dough is resting, mix together the lotus seed paste and the melon seeds. Separate the mixture into two tablespoon portions and shape into balls. Set the balls of filling aside for later.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Divide the dough into.5oz portions and shape into a ball. Roll each ball into a small disc with some flour about two inches in diameter. Place a ball of filling in the center of the dough and shape into a ball and dust well with flour. Add the ball to the mould and press out the yuzu mooncake. Add to a baking sheet. Spray them lightly with water to prevent cracking and bake for 10 minutes. Remove from the oven and let them stand on the baking sheet for ten minutes before moving them. Make a quick egg wash and cover the mooncakes before returning them to the oven for another 15 minutes. Remove the mooncakes and let them cool.

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toastjy · 3 years

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thinking about that time mark bit into a whole mooncake for a picture. i know he needed a drink of water after that

#traditional mooncakes are not very good #happy mid autumn festival everyone <3

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buwang2018 · 3 years

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Each time I gaze into the deep night sky, I am in awe at the biggest heavenly object to the naked eye illuminating the entire sky.

There has always been a fascination with the moon. From songs like "Fly Me to the Moon" by Sinatra. J. R. R. Tolkien wrote that the “Moonlight drowns out all but the brightest stars.” US President John F Kennedy announced the NASA space program by proclaiming, “We choose to go to the moon."

I, too, am influenced by the moon due to all the festivities: from the Lunar New Year to the Mid-Autumn festival. As a kid, I eagerly look forward to the delicious noodles and mooncakes. Most of all, getting red envelopes (yes! red envelopes too). I spent weeks putting together lanterns for the competition. My proudest was a goldfish, which seemed to lost its fin by the end of the evening. I never placed in the top 5, but it didn’t matter. What mattered was that I had a lantern in hand to parade down the street with my friends.

As a young adult, I would celebrate day 1 with family (when I say family, I don't mean immediate. I mean every distant cousin possible shows up). Well-intended relative demands to know when you are going to be married. I cringe and try to make the great escape. I usually spend Day 2 with friends - which has contributed to some of my most memorable stories because this is where I get in the most trouble. We shared meals, played cards, sang karaoke, or went water dipping under the moonlight. I look forward to Day 3, usually spent with the person I love. The wait and anticipation sent butterflies to my stomach leading up to this reunion. My first crush and I promised to meet on the rooftop, under the bright moon. We would locate the moon goddess and jade rabbit. We swear our oath to be together and ask the moon goddess to bless our love.

To me, the moon is romantic. The waiting is more romantic. The reunion is the most romantic.

I identify with this fandom because of many reasons, but mostly because it is the beauty of romance.

Happy Mid-Autumn festival to everyone who celebrates. Tonight there is a full moon to mark another cycle in life. 🥮 🌕

Source: 笑一笑全世界都亮了

#yizhan #personal sappy reminiscing #mid autumn festival

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darthasterisk · 3 years

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Happy Mid-Autumn Festival!

I grew up eating mooncake from NY's Chinatown every Mid-Autumn Festival, but this year, I wanted to try to make them myself (especially when there's so many recipes and resources online). Decided on making the traditional lotus mooncake with salted egg yolk.

They're a little funny shaped and not quite the right color since I had to substitute some things, but they taste good, and that's (mostly) what counts, right? 😑

Brushing the molds with flour reminded me of brushing in pigment for my resin castings, main difference is things aren't toxic and I can eat the materials while I work.

Also, working on preorders and will ship them out before October! USPS will be increasing their prices starting October 3 for the holiday season, so shipping prices are gonna increase in the next restock as well 🙁

#mooncakes #mid-autumn festival #mid autumn festival #food #mooncake #not art

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reikoackerman · 2 years

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Happy Birthday, Levi

Characters: Levi x Rei (me) feat. Ackerman Juniors and many friends

Genre: Modern!au

Warnings: SFW, fluffy. VERY VERY DISGUSTING AND SELF-INDULGENT PLEASE PROCEED WITH CAUTION. IT'S 4. 2K WORDS LONG LOL.

A/N: This is what I meant when I said @mrscommandersmith motivates me to write potentially embarrassing and indulgent things with regard to self-shipping. I can't believe you made me do this Mia 🙈 also @hashaneeee here's something else for you to scream about hahaha love you <3

It was that time of the year again.

However, this year was extra special. Yes, I said the same to Levi last year, and I told him that last year was very memorable. Yet, this year, I find myself repeating the same thing again.

Thrice a year, our house would be full of guests and loud laughter; Chinese New Year¹, Mid Autumn Festival², and Christmas eve. Levi’s friends obviously don’t celebrate Chinese New Year and Mid Autumn Festival, yet they still make it every single year without fail, enjoying the yearly hotpot during Chinese New Year and eating mooncakes with us during Mid Autumn.

On Christmas eve every year, we would host a Christmas dinner, partly to spend Christmas together, and also celebrate Levi’s birthday. This year, however, instead of us doing all the cooking, we’re doing a potluck instead. Levi was in the kitchen preparing the roast beef and the other dishes while I went to arrange the cutlery with a dinner set that we only use during this time of the year.

As usual, Erwin and Mia arrived first with their dishes in tow along with their beautiful children. Erwin brought over homemade mulled wine made by his mother, and Mia baked many amazing pastries for us for dessert. Our three dogs excitedly ran to them and begged for head scratches while Erwin and Mia's children followed behind their parents.

“Aww, who are these handsome boys?” I cooed as Theodore, the oldest, and Isaac, the younger brother, came forward to greet me after removing their shoes.

“Merry Christmas Aunty Rei!” The both of them called out in harmony. Theodore was the carbon copy of Erwin. He has his hair and his striking blue eyes. Isaac on the other hand was a perfect mix of Erwin and Mia. He has his mum’s face but his dad’s eyes.

“Good boys. Uncle Levi’s in the kitchen.” I gestured to the kitchen and they ran in. I turned my attention to the toddler in the pram.

“And hello there little Aria!” I reached my finger out and Aria gently grabbed it, giving me a toothless grin. She’s the youngest among their children, barely a year old.

“Good to see you, Rei! Your skin looks fantastic.” Mia hugged me tightly as Erwin went to the kitchen to say hi to Levi.

“Oh, really?” I blushed, hand touching my cheek. “Maybe because I’ve changed my moisturiser.” I giggled as I said hi to Erwin as well.

“Jia Ling, say hi to Uncle Erwin and Aunty Mia!” I called out in Mandarin, and within seconds, a little pink figure with two low pigtails zoomed out of her room and straight into Erwin’s arms.

“Hello, Renée, you look lovely today.” Erwin laughed while Mia stroked her cheek.

“Uncle Erwin! Aunty Mia! Merry Christmas!” Renée, our five-year-old daughter cheerfully replied. Her grey eyes went straight to the paper bag in Mia’s hand, eyeing the contents.

“Merry Christmas little one, I hope you like this gift from Uncle Erwin and I!” Renée took the bag with a loud ‘merci beaucoup!’ before asking to be let down.

“Where’s Theodore gege³ and Isaac?” She questioned, her head turning around everywhere. I told her that they were in the kitchen with Levi and she ran there. I chuckled and turned to Mia again while Erwin pushed the pram to our living room.

“Want to say hi to the twins?” Mia nodded excitedly and I led her to the master bedroom. The twins were up and crawling around in their cots.

“I think I am a really bad friend because till now, I can’t tell which twin is which,” Mia commented as she smiled at the twins.

“The one you’re carrying is Pierre, the older one. And then,” I gestured to the white giggling bundle in my arms, “this one’s Léon. You can tell the difference if you stare hard enough.” I brought Leon closer to Mia and she stared hard for a few moments.

“Hmm…” Mia thought hard with a frown appearing. “Oh, I think I see it! Léon has a mole near his mouth like you.” I nodded as we exited the room with the twins in our arms.

“You’re right! Leon has the same mole as I do. Also, Pierre has Levi’s eye shape while Léon has mine.” We let the twins down on the carpet in the living room where Erwin was trying to coax a crying Aria. It turned out that Aria peed in her diapers. Mia quickly brought out a new diaper and towel from her bag while Erwin swiftly removed the soiled one and wiped Aria clean. Soon, Aria was giggling again and joining the twins crawling around the dogs.

“Erwin, you’re so much better at changing diapers than Levi,” I said, bringing out two glasses of water for the Smiths. Erwin shook his hand.

“It’s nothing. It took me a while to grasp the art of diaper changing too.” We all laughed as Renée ran out of her room, telling me to call her when dinner’s ready because she’s going to go read with Theodore and Isaac.

“Renée talks about Theo too often sometimes,” I commented while drinking some water. Erwin then joked and said that if Theodore and Renée hang out more, they’re going to fall in love and get married in the future.

“I’m not letting my daughter marry your son, Eyebrows.” Levi frowned, bringing out the roast beef. “I don’t want to be your in-laws.” I smacked Levi’s butt and told him to be nice. Levi rolled his eyes as I followed him back to the kitchen, bringing out the dishes.

“Are you doing okay?” Levi hugged me from behind as I sliced some garlic bread.

“I’m fine, Levi. Don’t worry.” I turned to leave a soft peck on his cheek. “I’ll let you know if I’m feeling sick, okay?” I placed the bread in a basket and Levi turned me around, trapping me between him and the counter.

“Remember, don’t drink the wine Erwin brought. Drink this cranberry juice instead,” Levi placed a bottle of cranberry juice on the counter. “Don’t eat too much of the fried food that Nanaba is bringing. Also, don’t touch the cheese board—”

“Levi! Relax, amour.” I pat his cheek, pinching it afterwards. “Don’t worry so much, okay? Besides, it’s not the first time anyway. Just chill and enjoy your birthday celebration, hmm?” Kissing his lips, I brought the garlic bread out with Levi tailing behind me.

As the sun slowly set, our house gradually got filled. Mike made a fantastic cheese board for us while Hange brought us a huge log cake. Nanaba also brought lots of delicious finger food like fried oysters, chicken nuggets, buffalo wings, cheese fries, and the like. Moblit bought all of us pizza and snacks while Farlan and Isabel made the roast turkey. Other than the roast beef, Levi and I also prepared French onion soup, tacos, as well as some Caesar salad. Everyone wished Levi a happy birthday and placed their presents for him underneath our Christmas tree.

“Tch, there’s so much unhealthy food. I should have told them to bring more homemade food like—”

“Hey, Mr Ackerman. What did I tell you about enjoying yourself today?” Levi and I were in our room and he was complaining about the food. I wanted to feed the twins before we ate, in case they start crying. I was holding Léon while Levi rubbed Pierre's back, getting him to burp.

“But, you can’t eat the pizza Moblit brought. It’s all fat and sodium and you know it’s bad for you.” Levi placed a milk-drunk Pierre back in his cot once he burped.

“A slice of pizza won’t hurt…” I passed Léon to Levi once he was done, and I went to change. I decided on a light pink dress which was slightly loose around the waist. Once Levi had Léon burp, he gently rocked Léon and placed him in the cot, and went to get changed too. Levi matched me and wore a light pink dress shirt and dark grey tapered trousers.

“Remember. Stop eating anything that makes you feel sick. I made porridge already.” Levi eyed me from the mirror before stepping out of our bathroom.

“Yes Sir!” I jokingly got into a salute and went out hand in hand with Levi to join our friends for dinner.

While the children had their dinner at a small table in front of the television, the rest of us gathered by our dining table in the dining room. Our dining table could only fit six people and we had to add in extra seats to fit everyone. We had to squeeze a little, but everyone didn't mind. It was nice to see everyone gather and catch up on their lives. Everyone loved the roast turkey, and the children loved the pizza. Even Renée, who's a little picky with her food, asked for seconds.

Dinner progressed through and I had to excuse myself a couple of times. It was either to coax the twins or because the dogs were making too much noise and I had to let them roam around in the backyard before they started to drive our guests nuts. However, there were a few times I had to go to the toilet. Levi kept throwing me nervous glances and followed me wherever I went. I wanted to tell Levi off for being annoying and to tell him to stop shadowing me, but thankfully he kept doing so. I had to go to the toilet to throw up because I ate a fried oyster and felt sick. Levi held my hair and rubbed my back soothingly as I hugged the toilet bowl, feeling nothing but nausea.

“Are you sure you’re fine? You look really pale.” Levi handed me a towel before helping me up.

“It’s nothing, love. We went through this before. It’s normal.” I gently patted my mouth with water before tidying up my hair. Levi sighed and looked at me, a look of concern plastered on his face.

“I know. I know it’s normal. B-but, I just—I just can’t bear to see you like this. I—”

“Levi Ackerman. Listen to me,” I cupped his cheeks, forcing him to face me. “Don’t let this ruin your birthday dinner, okay? Don’t worry. Also, I’m your wife. I’m stronger than you think” I chuckled, making sure my dress was prim and proper before leaving the toilet.

“I will let you know if I’m feeling sick again, okay? I promise.” I reached out my pinky finger, assuring my worried husband. Levi relented and hooked pickies with me, and we went back to the dining table.

“Are you okay, Rei?” Nanaba questioned after pouring herself some of Erwin’s homemade mulled wine.

“Yeah, Nana, don’t worry. I’m fine. Just feeling a little under the weather.” I smiled, serving her and Moblit more soup.

“Hey, Rei,” Mike called from across the table, “is the cheeseboard not up to your liking? You haven’t touched it one bit and now I’m sad.” I quickly looked at Levi, not knowing how to explain myself without giving myself away.

“No dairy for Rei, she’s having a stomachache.” Levi curtly replied before eyeing me again, as though asking me for permission before he could take something off the cheese board. Levi knew how much I loved eating cheese and I knew he was worried that I would feel upset about not being able to eat it. I gave Levi a small smile and patted his thigh, and Levi took a slice of ham and some cheese.

Thankfully, I didn’t feel too sick afterwards and we managed to finish eating dinner without any more incidents. Our friends didn’t seem to catch on to anything either. Farlan and Moblit helped us clean up while the rest of them gathered in the living room to play with the children and to enjoy the desserts prepared by Hange and Mia. The twins seemed to steal all the limelight, and they enjoyed the attention on them too, especially Léon who gets overwhelmed by noise but is giggling and playing with his uncles and aunties. Once we did the gift exchange, everyone urged Levi to open his birthday presents. We’ve been hosting this celebration for Levi for years, yet his face still reddens with embarrassment when he was asked to stand up and open his gifts. Erwin and Mia gifted Levi a new shaver while Hange got him a pair of customised cufflinks. One had an ‘L’ while the other had an ‘R’.

“Well, it obviously stands for ‘Levi’ and ‘Rei’, but I thought that would help you differentiate between your left and right too.” Hange joked while drinking some mulled wine. Everyone laughed while Levi threw Hange a dirty look. Moblit got him a fountain pen engraved with his name while Nanaba bought Levi a set of car fragrances. Farlan and Isabel bought us a set of silky bathrobes and finally it was Mike’s present. It was the largest in size and everyone was curious to know what did Mike bring. Loosening the ribbon and opening the box, inside were a few children’s clothing, children’s storybooks, children’s sneakers, and also new collars for our dogs. Levi stared at Mike with a cocked brow while everyone else started laughing again.

“So, your idea of a birthday present to me is getting gifts for my children and my dogs, and nothing for me?” Levi had his hands on his waist and looked annoyed.

“What?” Mike retorted, “who said your birthday presents have to be something for you?” Levi rolled his eyes again but he had a small smile.

“Fine, you’re not wrong,” Levi looked through the box, flipping through the books. “You better pray hard Renée likes these, and our kids too when they grow up.” As the presents unravelled, Farlan urged Levi to say a few words of thanks. Levi grimaced, silently looking at me asking for help. I simply sat on the armchair next to where Levi was standing, feeling jittery.

“Uhh. You guys know I’m not an eloquent speaker. But, y-yeah. Thanks for sticking by me all these years, from the time I said I would never fall in love, until now that I am a father myself,” Levi took a good look at everyone before landing his eyes on me, and I gave him a wide smile.

“Also, we have a special announcement to make.” Levi held out his hand and I stood next to him, unable to contain my excitement. Taking a deep breath, I played with my fingers while Levi’s hands went to my belly. Everyone was staring at us and I felt like throwing up again.

“We’re expecting, again!”

Cheers of laughter echoed around the room, and Mia and Isabel rushed forward to hug me. Erwin carried Pierre and Léon, and tickled them saying “well look, you two are going to be older brothers!”. I could also hear Mike telling Farlan “I knew it! It’s impossible for Rei to not eat anything from my cheese board!” in a loud voice.

“So when is Ackerman number 4 due?” Mia questioned, her hand circling around the barely visible bump underneath my dress.

“I’m about 10 weeks in, so maybe around June to July next year!” I excitedly told them.

“The both of you need to take a chill pill. I suspect you two are out to earn our money from red packets⁴.” Mike commented while taking another sip of wine.

“Shut up, Mike, you love my kids. Also, you spoil them too much. Stop giving Renée sweets.” Levi threw a napkin towards Mike while accepting a one-armed hug from him.

After our friends congratulated us and everyone finished their dessert, it was time for the party to end. Nanaba, Moblit, Hange, and Mike left together in Mike's car while Farlan and Isabel played with Renée while waiting for their taxi. Once their taxi was here, Renée bid them goodnight and went back to her room. Erwin and Mia left with their kids earlier as it was Aria's time to sleep. Renée had a little pout on her face when they left, eagerly telling Mia that she wants to go over to their place soon.

Once our friends left, Levi went to wash the dishes while I got the dogs to sleep. Pierre and Léon were already in dreamland, sleeping soundly in their cots. I went to check on Renée and she was still up, drawing something on her little desk.

“Jia Ling, it’s time for bed,” I chimed, knocking on her door.

“Five more minutes, Mama, I want to finish this and give it to Papa!” I took a peep and Renée was colouring a birthday card for Levi. It was really cute, Levi and I were in the middle of the picture, and she even drew a party hat on his head. Renée was on my left, and the boys were on Levi’s right. She even drew the dogs in their kernels.

“The card is really pretty. Papa will be very happy. But do you know what will make Papa happier?” Renée put down the crayon and stared at me. “Papa would be happy if he sees his princess clean and ready for bed.” Renée listened immediately and went to the toilet. She stood on her stool and brushed her teeth together with me before changing into her pyjamas. As she climbed into her bed, I tucked her under her blanket and sat down, getting ready to read her a nighttime story. Levi came in after seeing her night light still on.

“Ma chérie, why are you still awake?” Sitting on Renée’s bed, Levi placed his arm on my shoulder.

“Papa! I wanted to give you this—” she excitedly jumped out of bed to give Levi the card. Levi took it with both hands and had a wide smile on his face.

“Thank you, darling. Papa loves it.” Levi caressed her cheek before lifting her blanket, coaxing her to get in. “You’re going to be a big sister again, Renée, and big sisters need to set a good example to their siblings. You’re 20 minutes past your bedtime.” Renée’s eyes widened after hearing what Levi said and visibly sulked.

“I don’t want to be a big sister again!” Renée pouted, staring at my belly. “Is it a boy again, Mama? I don’t want another brother! Pierre and Léon are so annoying! I don’t want another brother!!” Renée whined and looked at the both of us. “I want a sister! Mama, can I have a sister? We can share our toys and clothes! Aria and come play with us too. And we can fight with Pierre and Léon!”

“Language, Jia Ling.” I frowned, narrowing my eyes. Of all our children, Renée resembled Levi the most, both in their looks and their temper. Renée giggled and lay down on her pillow.

“Bonne nuit, Papa! Bonne nuit, Mama! I don’t need a bedtime story tonight.” Renée pecked our cheeks and turned to her side, hugging her big stuffed bear. Levi switched off her night light as I made my way back to our room. Checking on the boys, they were still soundly asleep. I changed into my pyjamas and waited for Levi to join me. Placing my palm on my belly, I couldn’t wait to give Levi his birthday present.

“Ready for bed, mon cœur?” Levi smiled as he climbed onto the bed, opening his arms to pull me in. I gladly joined him, enjoying the comfortable silence. Levi pushed me upwards after a while and massaged my shoulders. “Are you tired? You’ve done a lot today.”

“I’m fine amour, don’t worry so much. Besides, you’ve helped a lot too,” I turned towards him, toying with my wedding ring.

“Have you taken those vitamins? Still feeling nausea? Any leg cramps?” Levi held my hand, fingers gently caressing mine.

“Yes I have, I’ve taken them already. Also, no I’m not feeling sick and I’m not having leg cramps. Oh before I forget, are you ready for your present?” I smiled, feeling the excitement bubble deep within.

“You didn’t have to, having you and the kids by my side is good enough.” Levi leaned on the bedrest as I went to take a box from the drawer. Giving it to Levi, I leaned in and gave him a peck on his cheek. Levi looked at me before staring at the box. He shook it, hearing some noise inside. I urged him to open it, and Levi removed the ribbon from the box and took off the lid. He remained silent for a long time and stared at the contents teary-eyed.

“I-is that—”

“Yes, amour, it is.”

Inside the box was a photo of an ultrasound scan, decorated with lots of pink flowers around. The foetus in the ultrasound looked no bigger than an apricot. On the photo was ‘Hi Papa, I can’t wait to meet you ♡’ written in black ink. Levi's thumb gently caressed the photo with a look of longing. “When did you take this?” Levi looked bewildered.

“During my appointment with the gynae earlier this month, the one your mum accompanied me to,” I took Levi’s hand and placed it on my tiny bump. I took a nervous gulp, grabbing Levi’s hand tighter. Levi’s eyes were on me now. He knows what’s coming, and I know he’s very excited as well.

“We’re having another girl.”

Levi let out a sob before hugging me tight. I returned the hug, feeling tears in my eyes too. Levi and I remained like this for a few minutes, our sobbing echoing around the room.

“Another princess? Really?” Levi released the hug and stroked my belly again.

“Yes, Levi, another girl. Renée’s going to be so happy.”

“Thank you, mon cœur⁵, for this amazing present,” Kissing my forehead, Levi pulled me to his side again as we lay down on the bed. “This is the best birthday ever.” I giggled, punching him playfully in the shoulder.

“You said the same thing last year when the boys were only a few months old,” I reached over to turn off the table lamp, pulling the blankets higher.

“No, this year is really the best. I can’t wait to meet our daughter already.”

“This time next year, she’ll be in your arms sleeping soundly.” I smiled, staring at Levi. The moonlight shone through our windows, gently illuminating his features.

“I hope she looks like you. Renée resembles me too much.” Levi smiled, stroking my cheek.

“She can look like me, but she better have your eyes. Mine are boring.” I pouted, leaning closer to Levi.

“Nonsense. Look at Léon. He has your eyes but my irises. And I know our princess number two will too.” As Levi and I continued on our silly little banter over who our daughter should look like, Léon suddenly started crying. Levi jumped out of bed and quickly carried Léon, checking his diapers. Within seconds, Pierre started crying too and I followed suit, trying to coax Pierre.

“I think he’s hungry,” Levi said after checking Leon's diapers. Pierre's diapers were clean too.

“I guess they are hungry.” I laughed and handed Pierre over to Levi while I quickly made two bottles of milk. The twins kept crying while in Levi’s arms. Once I was done, I took Pierre back from Levi and handed him a bottle. Pierre stopped crying once he had his milk, and thankfully Léon stopped crying too. Once the twins finished their milk, we gently rocked them to sleep again and placed them back in their cots.

“Are you ready to face all these again next year once our princess is born?” I asked Levi, giggling as I went to wash the milk bottles. Levi hugged me from behind and rested his head on my shoulder. Pressing a soft kiss to my cheek, Levi’s hand went to stroke the tiny bump again.

“Even with three children, I don’t think I ever will be. Heck, I don’t think I’m that great of a father myself,” Levi turned me around and trapped me against the counter again. He seems to really like doing this recently, though I’m not complaining at all. “But for you, for the kids, and for this little one, I’ll always do my best.” I locked eyes with Levi and suddenly felt an overwhelming urge to cry. I don’t know what good deeds I did in my past life to deserve someone like Levi. Sometimes it still feels so surreal that he’s mine. It must be the hormones going haywire because tears started falling before I even knew it. Levi let out a sigh and a low laughter followed behind.

“I have to admit, I’m not ready for your weird food cravings and crying episodes again, that’s for sure.” I laughed while weeping and Levi pulled me into a hug and slowly patted my back soothingly. Once I had calmed down, Levi wiped the tears on my cheek and gave me a smile, and we made our way back to our bedroom, making sure not to wake the twins up. Making ourselves comfortable under the blankets, Levi pulled close to him, laying my head on his chest and draped his arm around my waist. Our lips met in a soft kiss and Levi whispered “goodnight, mon cœur”. Just then, the clock on the nightstand let out a tiny ‘beep’, and it was exactly midnight. I snuggled closer to Levi, hearing the steady pulse of his heart.

“Happy birthday, Levi.”

1: Chinese New Year - Occurs on the 1st day to the 15th of the first Lunar month, usually in January or February. The biggest holiday for Chinese. Also known as Lunar New Year and observed by the Vietnamese (Tết Nguyên Đán), Koreans (설날 seolnal), Japanese (正月 shōgetsu) etc.

2: Mid Autumn Festival - Occurs on the 15th day of the eighth Lunar month, usually in September. The second biggest holiday for Chinese. Also observed by the Vietnamese, Koreans (추석 chuseok), Japanese (月見 tsukimi) etc.

3: Gege (哥哥) - Older brother in Chinese. Can also be used on guys older than you.

4: Red packets (红包 hongbao) - Given by married elders/couples to children/unmarried individuals during Chinese New Year. Red packets contain money and it signifies blessings and good fortune from the elders to the younger ones. Children usually pay respects to the elders with a pair of Mandarin oranges, and usually wish auspicious messages to the elders. The red packets are then given in return.

It is also common for children to give red packets to their parents and grandparents to wish them good luck, health and happiness in the new year.

5: Mon cœur - 'My heart' in French. A special nickname I hold close to my heart because my Chinese name has the character for 'heart (心 xin)' in it 🥰

#levi x rei #reivi #self indulgent writing

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