As night falls and the lanterns are lit, the Phoenix Palace shines brilliantly.
In the center of the banquet hall, a huge carved table with dragon and phoenix motifs was laid out, laden with delicacies, a dazzling array of which filled the air with their aroma.
Light gauze swayed all around, melodious music filled the air, and dancers in shimmering costumes twirled gracefully, adding a touch of softness and fantasy to the grand event.
Empress Zhao Zhi, dressed in a dragon robe and wearing a phoenix crown, sat regally on the main seat, her face dignified yet gentle. Beside her sat Yun Zhang.
Zhao Yi, dressed in a bright yellow dragon robe, exuded an air of grandeur. The two exchanged a smile, displaying the demeanor of monarchs from two different countries.
Zhao Zhi raised his glass in a gesture of respect: "Brother Zhao Yi, your presence from afar is a great honor for the entire Yun Dynasty. May this cup of fine wine wash away the dust of your journey and together we wish for the enduring friendship between our two nations."
Zhao Yi smiled and replied, "I am deeply grateful for He Mei's hospitality. Our two countries are neighbors and should be as close as brothers. This gathering makes us feel even closer and more affectionate."
Zhang Han interjected, "Ah, Your Majesty and the Emperor's deep affection reminds me of a proverb—'Those who are not family will not enter the same door.' It seems that our two countries are destined to become an inseparable family!"
Upon hearing this, laughter erupted in the banquet hall, further enhancing the harmonious atmosphere.
Zhao Yi lowered his eyes, looking at his reflection in the wine glass, a smile playing on his lips. He and Zhao Zhi—no, Yun He—weren't they family?
Upon hearing Zhang Han's words, Zhao Zhi smiled and said with a hint of reproach, "Lord Zhang, you're getting better and better at talking. But then again, if our two countries could truly live in harmony like one family, that would be a blessing for all the people of the world."
After she finished speaking, she looked at Zhao Yi meaningfully.
Zhao Yi put down his cup and nodded slightly, saying, "What Sister He said is absolutely right. Da Xuan and Yun Chao are separated only by a narrow strip of water, and should join hands to create prosperity together."
Afterwards, the two monarchs and their ministers chatted amiably, discussing everything from national affairs to local customs and traditions, from poetry and songs to folk anecdotes, creating a warm and harmonious atmosphere.
Zhang Han's humorous and witty remarks often made everyone burst into laughter.
At the banquet, everyone was laughing and chatting, toasting each other, and the atmosphere was peaceful and harmonious.
Zhao Zhi and Zhao Yi exchanged pleasantries, using common official jargon and occasionally complimenting each other.
But her gaze kept drifting to the person sitting next to Zhao Yi.
Although that person had disguised himself, she knew very well that this person was none other than Shen Hanshan, whom she both loved and hated, and who should have been staying in Chaoyang County.
At the same time, Yun Zhang also keenly noticed Zhao Zhi's unusual expression.
He followed Zhao Zhi's gaze without showing any emotion, only to see a completely unfamiliar face. A hint of doubt arose in his heart, but he maintained his composure on the surface.
After a moment of contemplation, Yun Zhang suddenly picked up the wine glass in front of him and slowly stood up.
Seeing this, Zhao Zhi quickly reached out and grabbed his sleeve, lowering her voice to warn him, "Yunzhang, there are envoys from the Great Xuan here today, so you mustn't do anything reckless!"
Yun Zhang smiled slightly after hearing this, seemingly ignoring Zhao Zhi's words. He raised his wine cup and addressed Zhao Yi, saying, "Your Majesty, I am Your Majesty's Imperial Noble Consort. It is truly an honor for Yun Zhang to drink with you today. May the friendship between our two countries, like the fine wine in this cup, grow ever more fragrant and mellow with the passage of time."
Upon hearing this, Zhao Yi laughed heartily and immediately raised his wine cup in response, saying, "Yunzhang is absolutely right. I toast you here, wishing our friendship to last forever."
After saying that, the two of them tilted their heads back and drank the wine in their glasses in one gulp, which immediately drew cheers from all the guests and made the atmosphere even more lively.
However, at that moment, Yun Zhang's gaze inadvertently swept across that unfamiliar face.
Although it was only for a moment, the cunning glint in his eyes was clearly seen by the other party. At that moment, Yun Zhang was already secretly making plans in his mind…
When he introduced himself as the Empress's Imperial Noble Consort, the man's eyes flickered slightly. He was secretly delighted, thinking: This is going to be interesting.
The banquet continued, with melodious music playing and dancers gracefully performing, bringing the feast to a climax.
The other envoys who came with Zhao Yi began to whisper among themselves and discuss the matter.
"The Empress's Imperial Nobleman is indeed incomparably handsome!"
"I heard that the Empress refused to expand her harem because of this Imperial Noble Consort!"
"Oh, the Empress really values this person!"
The teasing words made Shen Hanshan so angry that his chest heaved as he gripped his cup tightly.
You, Zhao Zhi! I'm raising your two children in Chaoyang County, while you're keeping male lovers in Yunchao!
Shen Hanshan tried hard to suppress his anger and remain calm.
He told himself not to let his emotions control him and to find a way to deal with the situation. However, those harsh voices continued to reach his ears, making it increasingly difficult for him to control his emotions.
He took a deep breath, composed himself, and then smiled as he spoke with the envoy beside him, seemingly unconcerned about the teasing remarks.
"Your country has recently implemented a new policy, establishing the Yunxuan Academy for women to study. Women can participate in examinations and even become officials in the court. This is a very meaningful initiative." Zhao Yi nodded slightly, a hint of appreciation flashing in his eyes.
“When women read books, they can not only increase their knowledge, but also cultivate their thinking ability and moral character,” he continued. “In this way, women can also make greater contributions to the country and society.”
Zhao Zhi smiled and nodded; she hadn't expected Zhao Yi to be so supportive.
Zhao Yi continued, "This policy reflects the Yun Dynasty's respect and emphasis on women, and it also helps to promote social progress. After receiving education, women are able to participate more effectively in social affairs and contribute to the prosperity and development of the country."
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