The General's Aloof Persona Broken by Mind Reading

Lin Wan'er, a woman with the extraordinary ability of mind reading, accidentally stumbles into the world of the General's Manor. Xiao Yichen, a highly accomplished and handsome general, is ...

Chapter 127 The Road to the Wedding

In the capital of Rong Kingdom, the General's Mansion stands proudly in the heart of the city like a dazzling pearl. It covers a vast area and is surrounded by high walls, with watchtowers set up at intervals on the walls. The soldiers standing guard in the towers stand tall and straight, their eyes scanning the surroundings vigilantly, always protecting the safety and dignity of the General's Mansion.

The main gate of the General's Mansion was tall and heavy, its vermilion panels inlaid with rows of golden rivets that gleamed in the sunlight. Above the gate, a black plaque with gold lettering read "General Xiao's Mansion," the calligraphy powerful and vigorous, exuding a sense of grandeur. On either side of the gate stood two imposing stone lions, their claws outstretched, as if proclaiming to the world the extraordinary nature of the General's Mansion.

The buildings within the mansion are arranged in a harmonious and meticulously planned manner. Walking along the central axis, the first thing that catches the eye is a magnificent front hall, the important venue for receiving guests and discussing important matters. The roof of the front hall features a double-eaved hip roof, with glazed tiles shimmering with iridescent light in the sunlight. The flying eaves and brackets resemble a phoenix about to take flight, both dynamic and dignified. The floor of the hall is paved with smooth marble, and the walls are adorned with calligraphy and paintings by famous figures, depicting magnificent landscapes or showcasing the heroic figures of great men, adding a touch of cultural atmosphere to the front hall. In the center of the hall, a set of exquisite mahogany furniture is placed, the carvings on the tables and chairs are superb, and the flowers, birds, fish, and insects are so lifelike that they seem ready to leap out at any moment.

Passing through the front hall, one enters a spacious courtyard. The courtyard is filled with all sorts of exotic flowers and rare herbs, fragrant in every season. It is currently springtime, and peach blossoms are in full bloom, their pink petals falling like snow, carpeting the entire courtyard like a pink ocean. In the center of the courtyard stands a uniquely shaped artificial hill, its jagged rocks and clear spring water flowing gently, producing a melodious sound, as if playing a natural symphony. Below the hill is a clear pond, where various koi carp swim freely, occasionally leaping out of the water, splashing up strings of sparkling water droplets, adding a touch of life and vitality to the courtyard.

On either side of the courtyard are the east and west wing rooms. The east wing room served as the general's study and guest rooms, while the west wing room was the residence of the women. The architectural style of the wing rooms was relatively simple, yet still exquisite. The doors and windows were carved with beautiful patterns, such as auspicious clouds, plum blossoms, orchids, bamboo, and chrysanthemums, which complemented the scenery of the courtyard.

In the backyard of the General's Mansion lies a tranquil garden. It is filled with various precious flowers and trees, such as peonies, herbaceous peonies, roses, and crabapples. At this time, the peonies are in full bloom, their reds like fire, their pinks like the sunset, and their whites like snow, each blossom delicate and graceful. The garden also features pavilions and terraces for rest and enjoyment. A winding, nine-tiered corridor connects the various pavilions and terraces, resembling a giant dragon coiled within the garden. The railings of the corridor are carved with figures and animals from various myths and legends, such as Chang'e flying to the moon, the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl, and auspicious dragons and phoenixes, the craftsmanship exquisite and breathtaking.

The general's mansion's kitchen was located in the backyard, where smoke curled and fragrant aromas wafted throughout the day. Inside, chefs bustled about, preparing delicious dishes for everyone in the general's household. Flames licked the bottom of the pots on the stoves, the food sizzling and releasing an enticing fragrance that filled the entire kitchen. On the nearby cutting board, a variety of fresh ingredients were laid out, from delicacies to common fruits and vegetables—everything imaginable.

Deep within the General's Mansion lies Xiao Yichen's residence—Yifeng Garden. Yifeng Garden boasts a unique architectural style, blending the elegance of Jiangnan water towns with the boldness of northern architecture. Within the garden stands a small building called Qingfeng Tower. Qingfeng Tower is three stories high, with strings of wind chimes hanging from the railings of each floor. A gentle breeze causes the chimes to chime crisply and melodiously, their sounds echoing throughout the General's Mansion. The interior is simply yet elegantly furnished. The walls are adorned with Xiao Yichen's own calligraphy and paintings, depicting either his heroic swordplay or his reflections on nature. Before his desk are the Four Treasures of the Study—brush, ink, paper, and inkstone—all complete. This is where Xiao Yichen spends his days reading, practicing calligraphy, and cultivating his mind.

On the other side of the General's Mansion was a martial arts training ground. The ground was paved with hard bluestone, flat and wide. Around the ground were various weapon racks displaying eighteen kinds of weapons, including knives, spears, swords, halberds, axes, battle-axes, hooks, and forks, their gleaming cold light sending chills down one's spine. The shouts of soldiers practicing and the clanging of weapons frequently echoed above the training ground, showcasing the martial spirit of the General's Mansion.

Three days before the grand wedding at the General's Mansion, the entire mansion was bustling with activity. Servants moved about in every corner, cleaning the courtyard, wiping the furniture, and arranging the bridal chamber, their faces beaming with joy.

In the front hall, Xiao Yuanshan, the father, was discussing wedding arrangements with the steward, Xiao Fu. Xiao Yuanshan sat in the main seat, his face dignified yet kind. He wore a deep purple robe with a black belt around his waist, inlaid with a warm jade pendant. Xiao Fu stood to the side, respectfully listening to Xiao Yuanshan's instructions, holding an account book and occasionally making notes.

"How are the wedding banquet arrangements going?" Xiao Yuanshan asked.

"Reporting to you, sir, as you instructed, we have booked the most famous restaurant in the capital to host the banquet. The menu has also been finalized, featuring delicacies from land and sea, ensuring the guests' satisfaction," Xiao Fu replied hastily.

"Hmm, what about drinks?"

"The drinks are also ready. They are all top-quality wines selected from the wine cellar of our General's Mansion, including Nu'erhong, Zhuyeqing, and Maotai, which are enough for our guests to enjoy."

“Okay, then the wedding ceremony must not go wrong.” Xiao Yuanshan instructed.

"Rest assured, my lord, I have checked everything repeatedly with the wedding planning department. Every step is perfectly arranged. From the departure of the wedding procession to the wedding ceremony and the banquet, every detail will be meticulously planned," Xiao Fu assured him, patting his chest.

In the backyard of the General's Mansion, maids were putting the finishing touches on the bridal chamber. Located in the inner room of Yifeng Garden, the walls were painted a festive red, and a thick, soft red carpet covered the floor. A huge dragon and phoenix wedding bed stood in the center of the room, covered with a brocade quilt embroidered with dragon and phoenix patterns, sprinkled with red dates, peanuts, longans, and lotus seeds, symbolizing the wish for many children. A beautiful embroidery hung above the bed, depicting the newlyweds: Xiao Yichen, handsome and dashing, and Lin Wan'er, beautiful and charming, nestled together in blissful happiness. Around the room were various exquisite pieces of furniture and decorations, including carved wardrobes, dressing tables, and bronze mirrors, each piece showcasing the wealth and luxury of the General's Mansion.

Several maids were standing on stools, carefully hanging strings of red lanterns from the ceiling of the room. The lanterns were painted with various auspicious patterns, such as magpies on plum blossoms, mandarin ducks playing in the water, and a qilin delivering a child. The light shone through the thin gauze of the lanterns, creating a warm and romantic atmosphere in the room.

"Be careful not to break the lanterns," said an older maid.

"Yes, Sister Li. This is the young master and young mistress's new room, we dare not be careless in the slightest," a young maid replied.

In the garden of the General's Mansion, a group of servants were busy carrying various potted flowers and bonsai, placing them in different corners of the garden to add more festive color to the General's Mansion.

“This pot of peonies is truly beautiful; it fits perfectly here,” a servant remarked.

"Yes, this was specially selected from the flower room by the master, just to add splendor to the young master's wedding," another servant chimed in.

At this moment, Xiao Yichen stood by the window of Qingfeng Tower, gazing at the bustling scene outside. His heart was filled with both anticipation for the wedding and a touch of nervousness. He knew that this wedding was not only a momentous occasion for him and Lin Wan'er, but also a grand event for the General's Mansion, allowing no room for error. He secretly vowed to give Lin Wan'er an unforgettable and happy wedding.

Lin Wan'er was at home, eagerly awaiting her wedding. Her room was filled with her dowry: silks and satins, gold and silver jewelry, antiques and paintings. Sitting before the mirror, she gazed at her reflection, her mind swirling with emotions. She was about to leave the home she had lived in for so many years, marry the man she loved, and begin a new life. She was filled with anticipation for the future, yet also felt a pang of reluctance to leave her family.

In the streets and alleys of Kyoto, people were buzzing with talk of the General's Mansion's grand wedding. The General's Mansion held a pivotal position in Rong Kingdom, and Xiao Yichen, young and promising, brave and skilled in battle, was a hero in the hearts of countless young women. Lin Wan'er, born into a prestigious family, possessed both beauty and talent, making her a perfect match for Xiao Yichen. This wedding undoubtedly became the hottest topic in Kyoto and even the entire Rong Kingdom.

"Have you heard? Young Master Xiao of the General's Mansion is getting married. The bride is the daughter of Prime Minister Lin," a passerby said.

"Of course I've heard! This wedding is sure to be a huge event. We definitely have to go and join in the fun!" another passerby replied excitedly.

As the wedding day approached, the General's Mansion became increasingly enchanting, and the entire capital was immersed in a festive atmosphere, as if waiting for a grand and magnificent celebration to begin.

Inside the Yifeng Garden of the General's Mansion, Xiao Yichen stood alone by the window, gazing at the courtyard outside, which was being meticulously decorated and made even more festive. Sunlight filtered through the dappled leaves, casting shadows on his sharply defined face, but it couldn't dispel the faint tension and worry in his heart. He knew all too well that this wedding with Lin Wan'er carried too many expectations and responsibilities; it wasn't just his personal life's major event, but also concerned the alliance between the General's Mansion and the Prime Minister's Mansion, having intricate implications for the entire Rong Kingdom's political situation and the future of his family.

Xiao Yichen, dressed in a moon-white brocade robe with a light blue ribbon tied around his waist, appeared even more upright and imposing. His sword-like eyebrows were slightly furrowed, and a hint of contemplation appeared in his deep eyes. He silently considered every detail of the wedding, fearing any slight mishap. Was the wedding procession route arranged properly? Were the etiquette complete? Would Lin Wan'er adapt to life in the General's Mansion after marrying into it? He knew that Lin Wan'er came from a prestigious family, had received an excellent education since childhood, and possessed outstanding talent. He longed to give her a warm and happy home, so that she could continue to shine like a pearl in the General's Mansion, rather than being bound by tedious housework and family rules.

He slowly walked to his desk, where an unfinished painting lay, depicting a tranquil landscape—a scene he had witnessed during a trip with Lin Wan'er. He picked up the brush, but paused mid-air, his thoughts drifting back to the moments he had shared with Lin Wan'er. It was at a palace banquet, where Lin Wan'er, in a pale pink gown, gracefully moved among the guests. Every smile and gesture of hers was like a beautiful painting, deeply etched in Xiao Yichen's heart. From then on, he deliberately sought opportunities to spend time with her, whether it was reciting poems and painting together at poetry gatherings or strolling and talking in the garden. Gradually, their young hearts drew closer, admiring each other, and ultimately, they arranged their marriage.

Meanwhile, in the Prime Minister's boudoir, Lin Wan'er sat gracefully before her dressing table, surrounded by exquisite jewelry and a magnificent wedding gown. Her long, silky hair cascaded down her back, her face was as white as jade, and her eyes were bright and lively, like stars fallen to earth. She gently picked up a gold hairpin inlaid with rubies, holding it up in her hair, then shook her head slightly, seemingly unable to choose among the pieces of jewelry. Her heart was filled with longing and fantasies about the wedding, as if she could already see herself in her wedding dress, united with Xiao Yichen amidst the blessings of everyone.

"Miss, look at this wedding dress. It was meticulously sewn over several months by the most famous tailor in the capital. Every stitch of the embroidery is filled with blessings for you," said the maid Cui'er, holding a red wedding dress embroidered with a dragon and phoenix pattern, her face beaming with smiles.

Lin Wan'er gently stroked the delicate embroidery on her wedding dress, a shy yet sweet smile playing on her lips. "Cui'er, this wedding dress is so beautiful. Am I really going to become Xiao Yichen's wife?" Her voice was soft, carrying an undisguised joy and nervousness.

“Of course, Miss. You and Young Master Xiao are a perfect match, a couple envied by the whole capital.” Cui’er blinked and said playfully.

Lin Wan'er lowered her head slightly, a blush rising on her cheeks. She recalled the time she spent with Xiao Yichen, those afternoons admiring flowers together in the garden, his gentle gaze always silently watching over her, filling her heart with warmth. And that time by the lake, when Xiao Yichen broke off a willow twig for her, gently tucking it into her hair, smiling as he said she was more beautiful than the spring blossoms. These beautiful memories, like sweet candy, slowly melted in her heart.

However, amidst her joy, a sense of unease inevitably crept into her heart. Having grown up in the Prime Minister's residence, she was accustomed to its lifestyle and family atmosphere. The prospect of entering the General's mansion filled her with both curiosity and anxiety. Were the rules of the General's mansion strict? Would Xiao Yichen's family like her? Could she fulfill the role of the young mistress of the General's mansion and manage the affairs of the inner quarters? These questions, like shadows, lingered in her mind.

"Cui'er, do you think Master Xiao and Madam Xiao of the General's Mansion will be very strict? I'm afraid I won't do well and will disappoint them." Lin Wan'er frowned and asked softly.

Cui'er walked to Lin Wan'er's side, gently took her hand, and comforted her, "Miss, don't worry. Young Master Xiao dotes on you so much, his family will definitely like you too. You are gentle and kind, talented, and good at managing household affairs. You will definitely become an outstanding young mistress of the General's Mansion."

Lin Wan'er nodded slightly, her worries lessening somewhat. She took a deep breath, stood up, and walked to the window. Outside, the courtyard of the Prime Minister's residence was also bustling with activity; servants were making final preparations and checks on her dowry. Chests of exquisite gold and silver jewelry, silks and satins, antiques and paintings were neatly arranged. This dowry was not only a symbol of her status but also a testament to the Prime Minister's family's love and blessings for her.

"Cui'er, go and check on my mother for me. I want to talk to her for a while," Lin Wan'er said, turning to Cui'er.

Cui'er responded and withdrew. Lin Wan'er went to her mother's room and saw her mother sitting by the bed, her eyes filled with reluctance and relief. She went over and gently hugged her mother.

"Wan'er, my daughter, you are about to get married. Your mother is really reluctant to part with you." The Prime Minister's wife stroked Lin Wan'er's hair, her voice choked with emotion.

“Mother, I also hate to leave you. But I will come back to see you often, so please don’t worry.” Lin Wan’er raised her head, tears glistening in her eyes.

"Xiao Yichen is a good boy, he will take good care of you. In the General's Mansion, you must respect your elders, get along well with the servants, and be tolerant in all things. If you are wronged, you must tell your mother, understand?" the Prime Minister's wife instructed.

"Yes, Mother, I understand. I will try my best to be a good wife." Lin Wan'er nodded firmly.

After a conversation with her mother, Lin Wan'er returned to her room, her emotions gradually calming down. She sat back down at her dressing table, looking at herself in the mirror with a newfound determination and confidence in her eyes. She decided to cast aside her worries and anxieties and wholeheartedly embrace the upcoming wedding and her new life with Xiao Yichen.

In the General's Mansion, Xiao Yichen finally snapped out of his reverie. He put down his paintbrush, left Qingfeng Tower, and went to the training ground. There, soldiers were training diligently, their battle cries echoing through the air. Watching their agile figures, a surge of pride welled up within him. He knew that as the heir to the General's Mansion, he not only had to protect his family but also safeguard the territory of Rong Kingdom, bringing peace and tranquility to its people. Lin Wan'er's companionship and support would be a powerful driving force on his path forward.

He stepped onto the training ground, picked up a longsword, its blade gleaming coldly in the sunlight. He brandished the sword, his movements sharp and fierce, as if declaring his resolve to the heavens and earth. At this moment, he was no longer the nervous and anxious groom preparing for his wedding, but the brave and fearless young general of the General's Mansion. He would use his strength to create a safe haven for Lin Wan'er, ensuring her a happy and carefree life within the General's Mansion.

As the sun gradually set, both the General's Mansion and the Prime Minister's Mansion were bathed in a golden afterglow. Xiao Yichen and Lin Wan'er, in their respective rooms, drifted off to sleep, filled with anticipation and longing for the future. In their dreams, they both saw grand wedding scenes, hand in hand, walking towards the shores of happiness amidst the blessings of everyone.

As dawn broke, the General's Mansion was already bustling with activity. Xiao Yichen, dressed in a vibrant, dazzling crimson wedding robe, with golden threads shimmering brilliantly in the sunlight, outlining exquisite dragon and phoenix patterns, further accentuated his tall and imposing figure. His face radiated irrepressible joy and anticipation, his sword-like eyebrows and bright eyes filled with deep affection.

"Young Master, the wedding procession is all ready, just waiting for you to depart!" Butler Xiao Fu said with a beaming smile.

Xiao Yichen nodded slightly, took a deep breath, and steadily stepped out of the General's Mansion. Outside the gate, a grand and imposing wedding procession stood in neat rows.

At the forefront stood two rows of guards dressed in brand-new red outfits, riding tall horses, their bearing dashing and heroic. The long spears in their hands gleamed coldly in the sunlight, the red tassels on their tips fluttering in the wind like burning flames.

Next came a cheerful band. The musicians held various instruments; there were suonas playing festive tunes, their loud sounds seemingly able to pierce the clouds and spread joy to every corner; there were drummers striking exciting beats, each strike resounding and making the earth tremble; and there were musicians playing melodious string and wind instruments, their gentle melodies like flowing water, adding a touch of tenderness to the entire ensemble.

In the center of the procession was an exquisitely decorated bridal sedan chair. Crafted from precious rosewood, the chair's interior was adorned with intricate carvings of flowers, birds, fish, and insects, every detail showcasing the artisans' superb skills. The curtains, made of red silk embroidered with golden double happiness characters, swayed gently in the breeze. Strings of red lanterns hung around the chair, their light filtering through the sheer fabric, casting a soft and warm glow.

Following the bridal sedan chair came a group of servants carrying betrothal gifts. The gifts were dazzling and priceless. Chests of gold and silver jewelry shimmered brilliantly in the sunlight, their brilliance almost blinding; bolts of silk and satin were colorful, soft, and smooth, as if cut from the clouds at the edge of the sky; and there were also various precious antiques and paintings, each carrying the weight of history and the depth of culture, enough to amaze anyone.

Xiao Yichen mounted his horse, gently gripping the reins in his hand, and shouted loudly, "Let's go!" His voice was loud and firm, full of anticipation and confidence for the future.

The wedding procession, like a long dragon, slowly moved through the streets of Kyoto. Hearing that the General's Mansion was welcoming a bride, people flocked to the streets, eager to witness this grand spectacle. The streets were packed with people, their faces beaming with joy, their mouths uttering exclamations of admiration.

"Look! General Xiao is so handsome and dashing! This wedding procession is truly magnificent!" a young woman exclaimed with envy.

"Yes, Miss Lin is truly blessed to marry General Xiao. This marriage is a match made in heaven!" An old man stroked his beard and nodded in praise.

As the procession reached a bustling street, a group of children suddenly ran out, laughing, and blocked the wedding party's path. The little boy at the head of the group, with a chubby face and a rather adorable appearance, put his hands on his hips and loudly proclaimed, "General Xiao, if you wish to marry Miss Lin, you'll have to get past us first!"

Xiao Yichen was slightly taken aback, then dismounted and asked with a smile, "Oh? I wonder what kind of difficult questions the little ones will pose?"

The little boy blinked and said slyly, "We have a few riddles here. If you can guess them, we'll let you pass."

Xiao Yichen said confidently, "Alright, then you can give me the question."

The little boy cleared his throat and said, "First riddle: A curved tree, a curved vine, and a string of crystal bells hanging from the vine. Guess the fruit."

After a moment's thought, Xiao Yichen smiled and replied, "These are grapes. The grapevines twist and turn, and the fruits are like crystal bells, which is quite a vivid description."

The little boy nodded and said, "Then I'll give you a second riddle: It has a surface but no mouth, it has feet but no hands, and although it has four feet, it can't walk by itself. Guess a household item."

Without hesitation, Xiao Yichen said, "This is a table. It has a tabletop but no opening, and its four legs are like feet, but they can't move on their own."

Seeing that Xiao Yichen had guessed the two riddles so easily, the little boy was a bit unconvinced, so he said, "Then I'll give you a harder one. Wearing a flowery cotton-padded jacket, singing 'quack quack,' catching pests in the field, contributing to a bountiful harvest. Guess the animal."

Xiao Yichen pondered for a moment, then said, "This is a frog. Frogs are covered in green, like a flowery cotton-padded jacket, and they croak. They also prey on pests in the fields, which is beneficial to the harvest."

Upon hearing Xiao Yichen's answer, the little boy clapped his hands and praised, "General Xiao is indeed exceptionally intelligent; these riddles are no challenge for you. You may proceed!"

Xiao Yichen smiled and patted the little boy's head, then remounted his horse and continued on his way.

The wedding procession continued its journey, accompanied by music and celebration. Before long, they arrived at the Prime Minister's residence.

The gates of the Prime Minister's residence were tightly closed, and a group of maids and servants stood at the entrance, their faces showing a mix of playfulness and cunning.

Xiao Yichen dismounted, walked to the gate of the mansion, and said loudly, "Father-in-law, your son-in-law has come to marry Wan'er. Please open the gate!"

However, no one answered from inside the Prime Minister's residence. Xiao Yichen understood that they were going to make things difficult for him.

At this moment, a maidservant slipped a note through the crack in the door and said, "General Xiao, this is a couplet from my young lady. You may enter only if you can match it."

Xiao Yichen took the slip of paper, which read: "First line: Spring breeze blows willows green." After a moment's thought, he took a pen and ink from the servant beside him and wrote on the slip of paper: "Second line: Autumn rain moistens chrysanthemums yellow."

The maid took the note inside and came out again a moment later, saying, "Miss has one more question. The first line is: 'Red makeup and a knot of hearts tied together.'"

Xiao Yichen smiled slightly, picked up his pen and wrote: "Green trees bloom with twin lotus flowers."

The maidservant entered again, and a moment later, the gates of the Prime Minister's residence slowly opened. Xiao Yichen walked into the residence with great joy, only to find the courtyard decorated with lanterns and colorful streamers, a scene of celebration.

Prime Minister Lin and his wife were sitting in the main hall. Xiao Yichen quickly stepped forward and respectfully bowed, saying, "Father-in-law and Mother-in-law, I am late. Please forgive me."

Prime Minister Lin nodded slightly and said, "My dear son-in-law, there's no need for such formalities. Today you are marrying Wan'er, so you must treat her well and not let her suffer any grievances."

Xiao Yichen quickly replied, "Father-in-law, rest assured, I will love Wan'er for the rest of my life and never leave her."

Then, surrounded by the crowd, Xiao Yichen arrived at the door of Lin Wan'er's boudoir.

Inside her boudoir, Lin Wan'er wore a magnificent red wedding dress and a phoenix crown, the jewels on which shimmered mesmerizingly in the candlelight. Her face was veiled by a red veil, obscuring her features, but her graceful figure stirred the imagination.

Xiao Yichen gently knocked on the door and said tenderly, "Wan'er, I've come to pick you up."

Lin Wan'er said softly from inside the room, "Answer me a question. Do you know why I am so happy today?"

Xiao Yichen's heart stirred, and he said affectionately, "Wan'er, you are happy because today is our big day. From now on, we will spend our lives together and grow old together."

Lin Wan'er chuckled softly from inside the room and said, "You're right."

Then, the door slowly opened, and Xiao Yichen walked into the room. Seeing Lin Wan'er sitting upright on the edge of the bed, his heart was filled with excitement and happiness. He gently picked up the scale bar beside him and lifted Lin Wan'er's red veil.

Beneath the red veil, Lin Wan'er's face was like a blooming peach blossom, delicate and beautiful. Her eyes were bright and affectionate, and her slightly upturned lips held a shy smile.

Xiao Yichen stared blankly at Lin Wan'er, speechless for a moment. After a long while, he finally came to his senses and said, "Wan'er, you are so beautiful."

Lin Wan'er lowered her head slightly and said softly, "All you do is say sweet words."

Afterwards, Xiao Yichen took Lin Wan'er's hand and walked out of her room into the courtyard. With everyone present as witnesses, they bid farewell to the Prime Minister and his wife.

With tears welling up in her eyes, Lin Wan'er said, "Father, Mother, your daughter is unfilial and cannot stay by your side often."

The Prime Minister's wife stepped forward, gently embraced Lin Wan'er, and said, "Wan'er, you've grown up and are now a married woman. You must live a good life. Remember to come back and visit us often."

After bidding farewell, Xiao Yichen led Lin Wan'er to the bridal sedan chair. He carefully helped Lin Wan'er into the sedan chair, then mounted his horse and led the wedding procession slowly back to the General's Mansion.

Along the way, the joyful laughter of the wedding procession echoed in the skies above Kyoto, as if announcing to the whole world the happiness and joy of the newlyweds.