```
The family sat together, chatting merrily as they waited for the New Year's arrival, but only Mo Yan appeared listless, barely speaking at all. Had there not been so many people around, engaging in incessant conversations, it might have been obvious to everyone that something was amiss.
When the Zi Hour arrived, the sound of firecrackers outside began to burst forth one after another, like a pot of boiling porridge, Mo Qingze solemnly carried a tray with offerings and completed the End of Year sacrificial ritual in the courtyard amidst a succession of loud firecracker blasts, as the family joyously welcomed the New Year.
After enjoying the delicious dumplings, the burden of staying up late set in, and after exchanging a few words, everyone retired to their respective rooms. As soon as Mo Yan and her three beasts stepped into her courtyard, Maomao swiftly scurried down from under the eaves, circling in front of her incessantly, emitting a sharp and piercing screech.
