During the Sui Dynasty (581–618 AD), in a quiet village near present-day Xi'an, there lived a young woman named Yun Yao, the daughter of a scholarly family. Yun Yao had been immersed in classical poetry and the refined pursuits of scholars since childhood. She was not only talented but also exceptionally beautiful. However, she carried a deep sorrow in her heart, which was her relationship with her father, a stern scholar who seemed distant and indifferent, never offering her much affection or support.
One spring, Yun Yao’s father went to the capital city on business and returned with a special gift—a beautifully crafted sachet. The sachet was made by a famous embroiderer in the capital and contained precious herbal ingredients, emitting a refreshing and pleasant fragrance. The sachet was embroidered with a delicate peony design, symbolizing wealth, prosperity, and lasting happiness. When Yun Yao saw the sachet, a warmth filled her heart. Though her father was usually strict, it was clear that he had remembered her preferences and desires.
“This is a gift for you. May it protect your health and purify your mind,” her father said softly.
Yun Yao took the sachet with a warm feeling in her heart, her eyes filling with tears. She understood that this sachet was not just a gift her father had brought back but also a symbol of his love. From then on, she wore the sachet close to her, feeling the calming fragrance and tranquility it brought wherever she went.
As time passed, the scent of the sachet gradually became a part of Yun Yao’s life. Whenever she felt troubled or anxious, she would gently stroke the sachet and take a deep breath, and the warmth and freshness of the fragrance seemed to soothe the turbulence within her. Sometimes, she would take the sachet into the garden, sit by the pond, listen to the chirping of insects and birds, and quietly meditate. The fragrance of the sachet always helped calm her mind, as though she had entered a world free of distractions.
One day, Yun Yao was in her study, reading an ancient book when she suddenly heard a low cough from the courtyard. She hurried out and found her father had returned. He looked weary and frail from long travel. Yun Yao immediately took the sachet and placed it gently by his bedside, silently praying for his well-being.
“Father, please take care of yourself. This sachet will bring you peace and health,” Yun Yao said.
Her father looked at the sachet and smiled faintly, his eyes softening. “Yao’er, it seems this sachet has deeply touched your heart. You always knew, though I remain silent, that I have endless love for you.”
From then on, the sachet not only became Yun Yao’s personal adornment but also a silent bond between her and her father. No matter when, the sachet would always be with her, reminding her of her father’s love and care, bringing her endless comfort and strength. That little sachet also became an eternal symbol in her life, representing the warmth of family affection and the tranquility of the soul.
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