Chapter 69 The Capital City's Betrothal and Naming Ceremony

Fireworks burst forth, and countless lights dazzled the moon.

Jiang Geyun could clearly hear her own heartbeat.

She didn't choose any specific words to reply, but simply looked deeply at Cheng Xi and smiled, even though she knew that the smile was hidden behind a mask and might not reach his eyes.

Cheng Xi lowered his eyes and saw the vibrant Qixi Festival reflected in her eyes. This was the first time he realized that the festival was indeed different from ordinary days. As a result, he also showed a genuine smile that was different from the past.

...

A few days later.

The familiar reception hall of the governor's mansion.

Jiang Geyun herself never expected that she would come to this place for the third time.

She had thought she would spend the rest of her time in the Legal Affairs Office.

Speaking of the legal advisor...

Jiang Geyun took a symbolic sip of tea and turned her gaze to the newly appointed legal advisor beside her—Zhang Jingzhang.

Jiang Geyun knew that she had done a good job when confronting her former military advisor, Wang Canjun, and perhaps had left a positive impression on Zhang Jing at that time. In fact, she had a good impression of Zhang Jing, who was an extremely reliable person, and her keen intuition told her that she could choose to trust Zhang Jing.

But Zhang Jing's behavior—as if he had never considered any other options from the very beginning and stood firmly on her side—couldn't help but make her feel confused.

Noticing her gaze, Zhang Jing respectfully lowered his head and said, "Lord Jiang, what are your instructions?"

No, not at all.

She has already given enough explanations in the past few days.

In recent days, Jiang Geyun has been extremely busy, and many matters have had to be handled by Zhang Jing. Apart from recording the case file of the White-Clothed Ghost, which she handled, Zhang Jing was responsible for the rest, such as formally writing reports on the death of Prefect Cui and acting as his assistant in government affairs.

Jiang Geyun took on the task of recording the case files because she was the most suitable person to do it. Even if someone else were to do it, they would still need to ask her about the case during the process.

For example, why the victim fell to his death is a nearly unsolvable mystery. Jiang Geyun only figured it out later: Liu Zhuozhi drowned in the lake. There is a difference in elevation between the ground and the lake bottom. The white-clothed ghost did not understand the difference. In addition, falling into the water would stimulate the controlled person and restore their senses. Some controlled persons had briefly escaped because of this. Therefore, the white-clothed ghost, having learned its lesson, chose to fall to its death, with no room for regret.

If the case files were handled by someone else, not to mention the inability to freely arrange the processing time, Jiang Geyun would have to carefully consider how to answer the endless questioning about the case. So she simply took charge of the whole process herself.

After using Lingxi to quickly report the outcome of the case, Jiang Geyun received a message from Zhengyi, which essentially said that the position of Night Watcher was inherently special and flexible, and that since the world was vast and the journey long, she would handle all matters without any worries.

Upon receiving Zheng Yi's letter, Jiang Geyun immediately appointed Zhang Jing as the new military advisor and ordered him to temporarily act as an assistant official, handling the affairs of the prefect of Lianzhou before the new prefect appointed by the court took office.

In the end, Zhang Jing made the right choice.

Standing beside Jiang Geyun, Zhang Jing's gains were considerable, but compared to the smooth road ahead, this temporary busyness was nothing.

As for what Jiang Geyun has been busy with these past few days, besides organizing case files, it has been...

Wedding preparations.

Clearly, it was a spur-of-the-moment decision for her, and Cheng Xi agreed on the spot as well.

Jiang Geyun originally thought that even if she and the other person reached an agreement, they would get married after this matter was settled at the Cheng family in Jinghu. At that time, she would deal with the wedding while solving the Su Guang case.

The actual marriage process might not proceed until she resolves the system issue.

Unexpectedly, after leaving Bailong Temple and visiting the Qixi Lantern Festival, she returned to her villa to rest. The next morning, after washing up, she saw the entire courtyard filled with betrothal gifts.

...

Inside the governor's mansion, Jiang Geyun glanced at her reflection in the cup, shook her head at Zhang Jing, and simply said, "It's nothing, let's continue waiting."

...

Looking back on that scene now, it still feels somewhat unreal.

The servants who helped her with her washing and dressing showed no surprise, as if they had been instructed beforehand. After she pushed open the door and bowed, they began to lead the way for her.

She was led by a servant to the reception area in the detached courtyard, where two travel-worn, serious-looking men who looked nothing like matchmakers were waiting for her.

Ordinary matchmakers always put on a cheerful and smiling face, which makes people happy to see them. But the two in front of her looked like they were carrying a heavy burden. This kind of temperament had nothing to do with being approachable, but it made her feel somewhat familiar.

Later, Jiang Geyun thought again that the sense of familiarity should come from Zhao Duwei of Zhenyi Division. The temperament of the two people was not like that of a matchmaker, but rather like that of a high-ranking official.

...Is it because the customs of Lianzhou are different from those of other places?

Not only was the "matchmaker" special, but the betrothal gifts were also exceptionally lavish, unlike anything that could be prepared overnight. When the servants called out the names, the booklet reached all the way down to the calves.

Judging from past events, Cheng Xi should not be considered favored in the Cheng family. She could understand hiring such an "unprofessional matchmaker," but the extravagance of the betrothal ceremony still made Jiang Geyun wonder just how wealthy the Cheng family really was.

Was Su Guang originally from this kind of family background?

Then... nourishing her soul with rare and precious materials will surely allow her to remain in the world temporarily. If she has the opportunity to enter the Dao, that would be even better.

She suppressed her thoughts and, guided by the servants, wrote her name and other information on the invitation. The servants then handed it to the two "matchmakers," and she completed the ceremony with their help.

Just when she thought it was over, the two "matchmakers" hesitated, as they wanted her to kneel before something.

Jiang Geyun frowned, about to ask a question, when Cheng Xi appeared, smiling as he helped her up from behind.

The two "matchmakers" looked at each other for a moment, and finally gave up.

After the two "matchmakers" left, Jiang Geyun breathed a sigh of relief, sat down, and turned to look at Cheng Xi, full of questions.

Today he was not wearing his usual blue robe, but a brocade robe, brighter than topaz and clearer than amber. Compared to usual, he had less of a refined air and more of a noble air.

When Jiang Geyun turned her gaze to Cheng Xi, she felt a moment of disorientation, as if the fireworks of last night were still ringing in her ears and before her eyes, which is why she was now hungover without any alcohol.

Cheng Xi sat beside her and called her, "Wife."

Jiang Geyun paused for a moment and replied, "My lord, you've come."

Cheng Xi smiled and handed her a handkerchief, asking with concern, "Are you tired, my lady?"

Jiang Geyun took the handkerchief and shook her head. A medicinal fragrance emanated from the handkerchief and Cheng Xi, causing her to stop what she was about to say and instead ask, "Young master, were you injured last night?"

The two returned to the villa hand in hand after the lantern festival. Jiang Geyun quickly rested, and then early in the morning she saw a scene that she hadn't fully realized yet. Before she could figure it out, the betrothal and name-asking procedures were already completed.

This is comparable to the efficiency of catching up on homework on the last day of the holiday.

One night, a miracle.

She originally wanted to ask Cheng Xi how he had prepared so quickly, but when she smelled the medicine and saw his slightly pale complexion, she gave up her teasing thoughts and couldn't help but worry about his health.

Cheng Xi said, "There's no need to worry, it's all for our wedding."

Jiang Geyun gripped her handkerchief tightly and leaned forward anxiously, saying, "Why did it have to come to this?"

Cheng Xi paused slightly, then said casually, "Your family is in Yingzhou, so it's inconvenient for you to visit. I've decided to give you this villa as your residence, which will also make things easier. Don't you like it, Madam?"

Yingzhou is a truly special place. It is a land within a sea, an isolated island in the heart of the continent. There are many miraculous traces of dragons and immortals, but few people live there. Those who go there are either exiled or flee from enemies. It can be said that it has isolated the entire Great Zhou by itself.

If we have to wait until we get back there to perform the six rites, it's uncertain when the wedding will be able to take place.

From a practical point of view, using this villa as a residence would be a more suitable choice, and she would not mind—however, she did not expect that Cheng Xi had already given the villa to her.

“Of course I’m not talking about these things,” Jiang Geyun said. “Our future is not about this ceremony, but about every day and night thereafter. I hope to spend quality time with you, my love. Please don’t do anything that will strain your body.”

As if he had never expected her to say such a thing, Cheng Xi was stunned for a rare moment before replying with a smile, "Just as you say, my lady."

Seeing that he agreed, Jiang Geyun finally felt relieved.

For some reason, a lingering sense of unease still lingers in my heart.

Jiang Geyun pondered for a moment and asked, "What will the two matchmakers do with my calling card?"

Upon hearing the word "matchmaker," a smile flickered across Cheng Xi's eyes. He replied with a rather serious tone, "To divine the fortune of the two of us."

Jiang Geyun asked, "Should we send it to the Temple of the God of Destiny?"

In this world, when it comes to seeking divine guidance or divination, everything is related to this deity, especially since it is also related to marriage.

Cheng Xi said, "No, it is because the Heavenly... Divine Lord is essentially an Earth Immortal, not a true god. We should ask the true god about our affairs."

Jiang Geyun recalled that Cheng Xi had told her the difference between gods, immortals, ghosts, and monsters. Ever since Yunling Manor, Cheng Xi seemed to have looked down on Yuantian God and the mountain god worshipped in the manor. The difference between the two paths was like an insurmountable chasm. Perhaps the Cheng family had other gods they worshipped.

She has never been particular about such things. If she were to say who she respects most at this moment, it would definitely be the several enlightened seniors of the Xuandu Bureau. At least, these seniors have something that is truly authentic.

She neither confirmed nor denied it, only smiling and saying, "I wonder what the outcome will be?"

She had just casually thrown out this question.

Cheng Xi said, "It will definitely be a good outcome."

The answer was so certain that it startled Jiang Geyun, and at that moment, a warm feeling welled up in her heart.

She said, "With your words, my husband, I am at ease."

Looking down at the handkerchief in her hand, still smelling of medicine, she couldn't help but sigh, "I originally wanted to discuss with you and keep things simple, but I didn't expect it to become so complicated..."

“I understand what you mean, my wife,” Cheng Xi said. “I want to give you the best.”

He knew, of course, that Jiang Geyun did not covet wealth and honor, but preferred tranquility. However, he still wanted to complete the six rites and declare his love for her to the world.

After saying that, he added, "If my wife doesn't want to be tired, I will find a way to skip the rest of the ceremony."

—Neither the Grand Commandant nor the Minister of the Imperial Clan Court made her kneel before the imperial edict according to ceremony today. From now on, such matters will be adjusted according to her wishes, but he must be careful not to let her see it…

Jiang Geyun's vision blurred for a moment, but quickly disappeared without any abnormality.

She remained calm and smiled, saying, "It's alright, I'll risk my life to accompany you this time."

Anyway, the ceremony only happens once in a lifetime, so a little trouble is fine. If it brings good luck, it's a good result.

The two talked for a long time in the hall. Cheng Xi explained the meaning behind each gift to her, and she told him some little-known facts. It seemed like they had endless things to talk about.

We chatted idly for a long time, until the sunlight shifted.

She then realized that quite a bit of time had passed. Because of her appointment with Zhang Jing, she had to say goodbye to Cheng Xi. Cheng Xi was understanding and watched her leave the villa.

For the rest of the time, Jiang Geyun went to the Legal Affairs Office and, based on Zheng Yi's edict, appointed Zhang Jing as her assistant. She also took charge of handling all matters after Governor Cui's absence. She was so busy that she did not return to her separate residence until late at night.

When she returned, the meal was already prepared. Cheng Xi was reading a book nearby. When she saw her return, he had dinner with her. The two chatted for a long time until she showed obvious signs of drowsiness, at which point Cheng Xi took the initiative to leave.

After a busy day, Jiang Geyun thought she would finally get a good night's sleep.

She did fall asleep without insomnia; however, she saw the giant white dragon again in her dream.

At first, the white dragon seemed not to recognize her. After a moment of confusion, it suddenly remembered and said something to her, then nuzzled her with its beard.

In her dazed and confused state, she seemed to ask a question—why is the little white dragon nowhere to be seen?

The dragon clearly reacted and said something after hearing her words, but after waking up, she remembered nothing.

At first, she simply couldn't remember what the dragon had said, and later, she even forgot the dream itself.

In recent days, she has been busy organizing case files and preparing for the wedding during the day, and at night she has encountered the dragon again and again, but she can't remember what she talked about with Him each time.

If she hadn't seen Him so often, deepening her impression with each encounter, she probably wouldn't remember seeing the dragon again in her dream in reality.

...

Was it a consequence of the White-Clad Ghost case that affected her memory?

Jiang Geyun put down her teacup.

There's another tough battle ahead, so let's refocus our attention for now.

The hall was completely silent.

After a while, someone came forward and said hesitantly, "Miss Mu, she..."

Normally, the servants in the governor's mansion are mostly like frightened birds, often hesitant to speak. In the past few days, this is not the first time Jiang Geyun has communicated with them. Whenever someone falls silent, she knows the reason behind it.

Jiang Geyun said, "I will not punish you because of what others decide."

Having heard this, the man continued, "Miss Mu is unwilling to get out of the sedan chair, saying that she is a guest and you should go to greet her."

Jiang Geyun remained silent.

Goodness, she gets stood up when she's a guest, and then treated like dirt when she's the host. What a troublesome life she's had.

As soon as the visitor finished relaying the message, Zhang Jing stood up, as if to say something.

Jiang Geyun raised her hand to stop her, stood up and said, "As she wishes."

The marriage alliance between the Cui and Mu families was almost finalized, with only the final step of the wedding ceremony remaining. However, Cui Ni died while the eldest daughter of the Mu family was on her way.

A large group of people arrived in Lianzhou Prefecture. The ceremony was almost complete, but before the wedding could take place, the groom passed away. This was not an easy thing for anyone to accept.

Even if Cui Ni is not a good match, the eldest daughter of the Mu family, who has never met him, is innocent and harbors resentment. This level of putting on airs is reasonable.

Jiang Geyun made up her mind that she would find an opportunity in the future to create an illusion for the eldest daughter of the Mu family, so that she could know what Cui Ni was really like in her "dream".

The rest is up to the eldest daughter of the Mu family to decide.

On the way, Zhang Jing said in a deep voice, "If Miss Ruo Mu keeps pestering me..."

The unspoken words contained a meaning that both of them understood.

Jiang Geyun stopped her and replied softly, "Even if she persists, she has her reasons. We'll deal with it when the time comes."

Allowing the white-clad ghost to retaliate in kind was not only Jiang Geyun's personal choice, but also a way to completely eliminate its obsession and eradicate the possibility of the next evil spirit appearing from the root.

In fact, if the Cui father and son had withstood the probing questions of the illusion, and if they had been in each other's shoes and had a firm enough mind or enough remorse, they might not have died. But the outcome is already clear.

The fact that the white-clad ghost approached Jiang Geyun instead of someone else related to her mother's death proves that her actions had changed and were no longer purely "asking for answers." Between ignoring her and forcibly eliminating her, Jiang Geyun actively chose a third path and was willing to accept the series of problems that followed.

She wasn't a naive demon; she wouldn't be unable to distinguish her original purpose.

Zhang Jing's suggestion both reassured and worried her.

Hearing her confident reply, Zhang Jing said no more.

However, Zhang Jing's gaze towards Jiang Geyun was tinged with surprise, which he quickly concealed, returning to a state of indifference.

She was originally just following orders to be used by the person in front of her, but along the way, she actually developed a certain degree of admiration for him.

When faced with a master's command, rather than pondering its underlying meaning or agonizing over whether to obey, the better approach is to remain emotionless, disregard everything, and simply follow orders.

But in that instant, she suddenly understood why her master was so deeply attached to the person before him.

...

After a brief exchange and reflection, the two arrived at the main gate of the governor's mansion, led by a servant.

The long street in front of us was almost filled with sedan chairs. Apart from the main sedan chair parked outside the main gate, which was obviously carrying important figures, the entire motorcade crowded the street, grand and silent, making people feel depressed.

A servant from the governor's mansion informed the servants of the entourage that the Night Watcher and his assistants had arrived.

In just a few meters, the message was passed from one person to another, going through countless hands before finally reaching the attendant beside the main sedan chair. The attendant then entered the sedan chair and passed the message to the person inside.

After a long while, the attendant in the sedan chair came out of the main sedan chair, cleared his throat, and was about to say something.

Jiang Geyun was already prepared and kept a close eye on the person.

Just then, a surprised shout came from inside the sedan chair. The curtain of the sedan chair moved abruptly, and a black cloud-treading snow pounced out of the sedan chair. It landed on the ground, licked its paws, and then calmly walked several steps down the street.

In an instant, everyone's attention was focused on the kitten.

Jiang Geyun was no exception.

She glanced down and saw that cat was... a really sturdy little cat.

The kitten must have been in the sedan chair for too long and couldn't stand it any longer, so it crawled out to get some fresh air.

After this interruption, the servants, who had previously dared not make any moves, began to look around, and the atmosphere on the long street became a little more relaxed.

The servants knew the kitten's identity and how much its owner doted on it, so they were sure the kitten wouldn't be punished. They all thought this might be a good opportunity.

The person inside the sedan chair knocked on the side of the sedan chair.

The attendants beside the main sedan chair immediately stepped forward and lifted the curtain for her.

At the same time, another servant stepped forward, attempting to capture the Black Cloud Snowflake.

However, the kitten had already run to Jiang Geyun's side in a few steps and was rubbing against her. The Mu family servants did not want to go forward directly, so they stopped in front of Jiang Geyun and Zhang Jing with very awkward expressions.

The sedan curtain had been lifted, and the eldest daughter of the Mu family inside said lazily, "Hurry up and carry Qianjun back..."

Following the crowd, her gaze fell on Jiang Geyun.

At the same time she saw Jiang Geyun, Jiang Geyun also saw her.

Both of them were taken aback.

Jiang Geyun was stunned because the "eldest daughter of the Mu family" in front of her was none other than Mu Jin, whom she had met once at Yunling Manor.

As for why Mu Jin was stunned, Jiang Geyun had no idea.

Ordinary people, once they leave Yunling Manor, will lose all their memories of it unless they encounter a special opportunity. Mu Jin should not recognize her at this moment.

The two looked at each other in silence for a moment.

Jiang Geyun first bowed respectfully from afar, intending to introduce herself.

Mu Jin turned to the attendant beside the sedan chair and said, "Help me down."

The servants readily agreed and stepped forward to help him up.

After getting out of the sedan chair, Mu Jin quickly walked up to Jiang Geyun, and the servants supporting her could not keep up with her for a moment.

She stopped and smiled at Jiang Geyun, saying, "My lord, you have kept us waiting. Let's go in!"

Jiang Geyun fell silent again.

Zhang Jing, who was standing next to him, was also shocked by what he saw. His gaze swept over the two of them, revealing an undisguised bewilderment and astonishment.

...

"I couldn't stand the summer heat and stayed in the sedan chair a little longer than usual," Mu Jin said as they entered the hall, sitting down with an uncontrollable smile. "It wasn't intentional, please forgive me, sir."

With so many people around, Jiang Geyun couldn't find a suitable opportunity to ask her if she still remembered Yunling Manor, so she could only reply, "It's alright, Miss Mu has had a long journey and must be tired."

Mu Jin said, "My name is Mu Jin, the 'Jin' in hibiscus. Sister Jiang, you can just call me Xiao Jin."

Jiang Geyun said, "...Miss Mu, the governor's mansion has suddenly suffered a calamity, this matter..."

Mu Jin said, "That's not important. Sister Jiang, just call me Xiao Jin."

...Isn't it important?

Jiang Geyun's feelings were in agreement with those of the servants beside Mu Jin. She clearly saw that the girl's pupils dilated in shock as she stared at her mistress in disbelief.

Mu Jin remained unmoved.

The kitten had already been picked up and put back into Mu Jin's arms.

It was much cooler inside than outside, and the kitten was purring.

Jiang Geyun looked down at the kitten and remembered that Mu Jin had said that she had mistakenly entered the manor while looking for a cat. This must be the cat. Mu Jin... she's quite strong.

Following Jiang Geyun's gaze, Mu Jin also looked down at the kitten in her arms. She held it up to Jiang Geyun and said, "Its name is Qianjun."

Jiang Geyun nodded.

She roughly knew which two characters were "千钧".

But this isn't the time for the sisters to discuss kittens.

Jiang Geyun said solemnly, "You must already know about the matter of the Prefect's Mansion, Mu... Xiao Jin. This matter was originally my fault for failing to exorcise the evil spirit in time. If there is anything I can do to make amends, please feel free to mention it."

Mu Jin stroked the kitten's fur in her arms and asked, "Now that things are settled here, will Sister Jiang return to the capital?"

Jiang Geyun paused, unsure of the motivation behind the question or its purpose.

She had made thorough preparations for today's events, considering all the questions the eldest daughter of the Mu family would ask and how she should respond. This... was something she had never thought of before.

She replied truthfully, "I will remain in Lianzhou for the time being to handle unfinished business."

Whether it's organizing case files, contacting the new governor, attending the wedding, or fulfilling her original purpose for coming here—finding and punishing the murderer who caused Su Guang's death—she needs to remain in Lianzhou.

"I see!" Mu Jin said with a smile. "Then Sister Jiang can come and see me more often as compensation for this matter, how about that?"

The servant had just recovered from her shock and regained her composure. She racked her brains for a moment, but the situation had developed beyond her expectations, leaving her speechless again. After much thought, she could only cough a few times to remind her young mistress.

Mu Jin finally received this message.

She pursed her lips and added helplessly, "I already know the whole story. It's hard to stop the evil spirits from seeking revenge. Lord Jiang has done his best, so I will not blame him for it. On the contrary, if this family knew this in the afterlife, they would be ashamed of their actions instead of blaming heaven and earth."

In any case, this is the best outcome for Jiang Geyun.

Jiang Geyun said, "It is best for me that Xiao Jin thinks this way, but the impact of this matter on you is immeasurable."

"What's the big deal? I originally wanted to..." Mu Jin paused, chuckled awkwardly, and then said, "I'm glad I didn't come to the wrong family. Sister Jiang, please don't mind. I'll help handle the Cui family's affairs later."

According to the original plan, Mu Jin wanted to use this as an excuse to show her absolute dissatisfaction, so that the Night Watcher would owe her a favor and she would have plenty of opportunities to make him "repay" it when they met in the future.

As for Cui Ni, let alone Cui Ni, she has met and considered many other young men. The son of the governor of Lianzhou is not someone she would really be thinking about.

She has plenty of energy to live her life well.

This belief was deeply ingrained in her heart from some unknown time, as if she had come to terms with it as she reached a certain age. The days when she saw those young men feeling uneasy about their future husbands seemed like something she couldn't understand.

Her family was naturally very pleased with her transformation.

Therefore, when she learned of Cui Ni's death on the way, she was not flustered at all, and immediately began to plan how to make the most of the situation.

For some reason, upon meeting this Night Grimm, she felt a sense of closeness. Rather than seeking more from him, she even wanted to help him resolve his troubles.

Although Mu Jin couldn't figure out the exact reason, she could sense from her own heart and Qian Jun's reaction that this was not a bad thing.

She looked at Jiang Geyun with a smile.

Since we've come this far...

Jiang Geyun turned her head and looked at Zhang Jing for a moment, then turned back and said, "Then thank you, Xiao Jin."

Mu Jin said, "Perhaps I should be the one thanking Sister Jiang."

Jiang Geyun knew that Mu Jin was referring to the fact that she would inherit some of the Cui family's wealth. If she claimed to be Cui Ni's chaste daughter, the main branch of the Cui family would be hers for the taking. There was quite a bit of room for maneuver in that.

Upon hearing those words, Jiang Geyun recalled the moment they parted at the mountain villa, amidst the swirling snow, the pure gratitude in the eyes of the girl in purple, so bright and clear.

She then smiled and said, "Really? Well then, don't just make me come and keep Xiao Jin company. Xiao Jin should tell me some interesting things too."

Upon hearing this, Mu Jin actually replied, "Speaking of which, the most talked-about thing in the capital lately is that matter, isn't it?"

She turned to the servant beside her to confirm, who had completely given up on getting her young lady to stand up and act according to plan. At this moment, the servant looked dejected and, upon hearing the question, replied weakly, "Yes."

Mu Jin said cheerfully, "Right, right? Sister Jiang, have you heard?"

"The Crown Prince is going to take a Crown Princess!"

Jiang Geyun said, "Is that so?"

There was no apparent emotion in his tone.

Just then, a servant from the governor's office came to announce that Young Master Cheng had come to fetch you. He whispered in Jiang Geyun's ear, "Young Master Cheng has come to pick you up."

Jiang Geyun was stunned, and the past events of Yunling Manor reappeared before her eyes.

Mu Jinruo remembered her, that was with Cheng Xi...

Mu Jin was engrossed in gossiping and her eyes were full of urging, wanting Jiang Geyun to finish what she was doing so she could continue chatting with her. At this moment, when she saw Jiang Geyun looking up at her, she tilted her head in confusion.

-----------------------

Author's Note: What a coincidence! This guy was someone who had prepared in advance, even planned how to force himself on her, but Yun just walked right into it (secretly pleased all night).

Also: The betrothal ceremony for the Crown Prince's bride was supposed to be attended by the Grand Commandant and the Minister of the Imperial Clan Court. These two middle-aged and elderly people were sent over overnight; it must have been quite a hardship! Yun's perspective: What a strange matchmaker…

Also: Strictly speaking, issuing imperial edicts is the emperor's prerogative; princesses, lacking real power, cannot issue them. However, this story is different; it's a fictional, heavily modified version! To avoid confusion, I'll clarify here: adults, please don't believe everything I write! I used the word "imperial edict" simply because I think it sounds satisfying to read a princess's edict! (?)

Personal rant:

I originally planned to post it yesterday, but I wanted to adjust the narrative order before posting, so I postponed it until today and posted it together with the new writing. I'll take a break tomorrow, and try to post more content as much as possible and aim for daily updates (anyway, I'm setting this goal first).

My eyelids kept twitching while I was writing today, giving me a feeling of heatstroke and anxiety. I was worried all day, wondering if there was something wrong with my writing, and whether it would have been better not to revise it at all. Then, in the afternoon, I suddenly realized I had started my period. Well, that's not surprising then (which is also why I'm resting tomorrow, sob sob).