He picked up his teacup and gestured to Hongtun, saying, "Your Highness's insight is profound; Baoyu has learned much."

Hongtun raised his glass in return, and the two exchanged a smile.

Seeing that Baoyu behaved properly, Jia Zheng felt somewhat relieved and said to Lin Ruhai, "Brother Ruhai, Daiyu and the young master are truly a match made in heaven, and it is truly enviable."

Lin Ruhai nodded with a smile: "It is thanks to Your Highness's kindness that my daughter has this wonderful marriage."

After some more conversation, as evening approached, Lin Ruhai rose to take his leave and summoned a servant to the inner courtyard to fetch Daiyu so they could return to the mansion together.

Hongtun also bowed to Jia Zheng and the others, saying, "Thank you for your hospitality today."

Jia Zheng quickly replied, "Your Highness is too kind. Please come to our residence another day."

Daiyu had already finished her meal and was chatting and laughing with her sisters in Rongxi Hall. Grandmother Jia, feeling exhausted, went to rest in her inner room.

When the maid came to report that Lord Lin had asked Daiyu to return to the mansion together, she hurriedly bid farewell to her sisters.

After seeing the guests off, Jia Zheng turned around and saw Baoyu still standing there in a daze, so he frowned and said, "What are you still standing here for?"

Baoyu snapped out of his reverie and said in a low voice, "Father, I have a request to make."

Jia Zheng sneered, "What kind of trouble are you trying to cause now?"

Baoyu took a deep breath and mustered his courage to say, "I want to... I want to travel to Jiangnan to study."

Jia Zheng was taken aback, then angrily retorted, "Nonsense! You never think of making progress, and now you want to travel and study?"

Baoyu looked up, his gaze resolute: "This is not a spur-of-the-moment decision. After meeting the young master today, I realize how shallow my knowledge is. If I can travel and explore, I may broaden my horizons and make this life worthwhile."

Seeing his sincere attitude, Jia Zheng's anger subsided slightly. After a moment of contemplation, he said, "We'll discuss this matter later. You should go back and reflect on your actions!"

Baoyu dared not say another word and silently withdrew. As he walked along the corridor, he looked up and saw the blood-red setting sun on the horizon, yet his heart was calmer than ever before.

Meanwhile, Hongtun and Lin Ruhai walked side by side on their way back to the mansion, with Daiyu following closely behind.

Lin Ruhai suddenly spoke up: "What does the young master think of Baoyu?"

Hongtun smiled slightly: "A rough gem can be polished, but you have too many worries."

Lin Ruhai turned to look at Daiyu and said to Hongtun, "This child has been close to Yu'er since childhood. I won't lie to you, they grew up together and their relationship is just that of brother and sister. Don't take it to heart."

Hongtun said calmly, "Father-in-law, rest assured, I understand. There is plenty of time ahead, and everything will be as it should be."