The Winter Solstice scene unfolded at a lakeside pavilion, bathed in the ethereal glow of a full moon.
The night was crisp and clear, a stark contrast to the artificial clouds that had been conjured to fill the lake, leaving only a crescent-shaped void where the lanterns from the Human Realm were supposed to ascend.
The pavilion, adorned with crimson lanterns that swayed gently in the breeze, echoed with the festive murmur of the gathering.
Within, a sumptuous banquet awaited, with tables laden with mouthwatering delicacies. Succulent meat dumplings, their aroma tantalizing to the senses, were paired with bowls of sweet, glutinous rice dumplings.
Steamed fish, delicately flavored with ginger and black ear mushrooms, was complemented by the crisp texture of stir-fried bamboo shoots, which was tossed with minced garlic and sprinkled with chopped spring onions.
