The grandfather and grandson were chatting when they saw the groom, beaming with pride, leading several groomsmen from the backyard.
The groom, Bao Zihui, had changed into a bright red silk round-necked robe, a jade belt around his waist, and a perfectly timed smile beneath his black official hat.
Led by the butler, they slowly walked towards the large rosewood table at the east end of the flower hall where Yue Fuguang and the others were.
Seated behind the table was today's most distinguished guest, Crown Prince Xie Zhiyan, followed by Yu Fuguang, Yu Chongshan, and several ministers.
The groom walked with a steady gait, his wide sleeves fluttering like flowing clouds. He stopped three steps away from the table, straightened his clothes, and performed a standard bow towards the Crown Prince. Then he bowed to the moon and the officials on both sides.
The jade pendant at his waist remained unmoved. "His Highness the Crown Prince has graced us with his presence. The Junior Tutor and several of my uncles have taken time out of their busy schedules to come today. The Bao residence is filled with glory. I am deeply grateful."
Especially when he looked at Yue Fuguang, his eyes were full of gratitude. Although no one had found You Tan yet, since his grandfather believed it so firmly, it couldn't be false.
Bao Zihui was extremely grateful to the person who provided the information.
The prince and the others accepted the greetings with smiles, and Yue Fuguang nodded in their manner.
The steward then presented a vermilion tray, on which was a set of official kiln doucai lotus-patterned cups, already filled with an amber luster.
Bao Zihui first took the cup specially prepared for the Crown Prince, raised it above his eyebrows with both hands, and bowed deeply.
"Your Highness is busy with many affairs of state. It is a great honor for the Bao family that you have condescended to attend Zihui's wedding banquet. With this cup of wine, we wish Your Highness a long and healthy life, and may your blessings be everlasting."
The Crown Prince was usually too easygoing in front of Yue Fuguang, and she almost forgot that he was the future heir of the dynasty, and had been personally taught by Emperor Mingxi since childhood.
Although Xie Zhiyan is young, he already displays the demeanor of a crown prince. Indeed, even a young tiger can be a tiger.
He did not immediately raise his glass. His gaze, gentle yet scrutinizing, swept over the groom's respectful posture, a faint smile playing on his lips.
The Crown Prince's voice was mellow yet carried an air of authority: "Today, let us set aside state etiquette and focus solely on family ties. Although I have not had many interactions with Zihui, I have often heard that your family is young and accomplished, with excellent knowledge and character."
Congratulations on your marriage today! May you cultivate your character and manage your family well, while also remembering to serve your country.
These words were both encouragement and expectation, and all the important officials present listened attentively.
Despite making polite remarks, the Crown Prince was actually quite envious of Bao Zihui for marrying such a kind and righteous wife.
He couldn't help but wonder if his future crown princess would treat him as sincerely as the Chu family girl, rather than just as sincerely as she wanted his position.
The groom bowed again, saying, "Your Highness's teachings are invaluable; I, Zihui, will remember them forever and never forget them day or night. I can only do my utmost to repay Your Highness's favor and the court's great kindness."
After speaking, he respectfully drank the wine in one gulp, his posture elegant, without spilling a drop.
The crown prince then smiled, raised his cup, took a small sip, and accepted the full courtesy.
"Alright, go ahead. The Junior Tutor and all the other officials are pillars of the court. You must pay your respects to each of them."
Bao Zihui immediately bowed deeply to Yue Fuguang and handed her a small, exquisite cup containing a popular children's drink in Dayan.
"On behalf of my wife, Zihui thanks the Junior Tutor." With that, he downed the wine in his cup in one gulp, showing how excited he was.
Yue Fuguang, acting like a little adult, said, "Today is Zihui's big day. I, your young master, wish the newlyweds a long and happy marriage, and that they may be united in heart forever."
Master, you mustn't offer blessings carelessly; they might come true if you're not careful.
"Wouldn't it be better if it came true? Aren't all blessings meant to be fulfilled? It's just that other people don't have that ability."
Yue Fuguang spoke lightly, but there was still a slight pang of heartache. A single blessing cost her thirty points, and this was the first time she had ever spent points on someone unimportant without any ulterior motive.
At this moment, Bao Zihui was deeply shaken. He finally understood what his grandfather meant when he repeatedly told him that the Junior Tutor had some magical qualities.
He was repeatedly told not to panic or make a fuss. Bao Zihui only paused for a moment, his hand holding the wine glass trembled slightly, and then he bowed respectfully and said, "Zihui, thank you for your kind words, Young Master!"
Everyone around, including the Crown Prince, was envious and insisted that the Junior Tutor sit at the head table at his own wedding.
Others shared similar thoughts, and the Junior Tutor was their honored guest.
Moonlight: Is it possible that I don't attend everyone's banquets, and I'm not willing to send my blessings to everyone?
Next came Yu Chongshan, Cai Xian, and other officials.
These bigwigs are indeed masters of social graces; they can rattle off these polite words without hesitation. Cai Xian said, "Nephew, your father used to be my comrade-in-arms. Seeing you in such a spirited state now feels like yesterday."
After starting a family, you will truly begin to build your career. I hope you will uphold the family tradition and bring honor to your family.
Bao Zihui respectfully replied, "Uncle, you are very kind. My father also often thinks of the past with you and has instructed me to humbly learn from you."
This cup of wine is offered to my esteemed elder brother, wishing you good health, and also to the enduring friendship between our two families.
Wang Shoushen and Lord Bao were also old friends. He spoke in a gentle tone, implying something: "Today's banquet shows that your family has a wide circle of friends and a gathering of talented people."
My dear nephew, you should prioritize your studies and absolutely must not...
"An assassin!" Before Lord Wang could finish speaking, a shout was heard.
Everyone thought to themselves, "He's here as expected." Bao Zihui cupped his hands to the crowd and said, "Your Highness, Junior Tutor, and all of you are pillars of the nation. It is my great honor to have you all gathered here today."
I sincerely wish that all of you, my esteemed officials, enjoy political stability and harmony, and live long and healthy lives!
Please wait a moment, Zihui will be right back.
After saying that, he jumped and ran far away, heading straight for the bridal chamber in the backyard.
"I didn't realize Bao Zihui was a trained martial artist. How come a trained martial artist like him got his whole family killed because of his friend?"
[Master, is it possible that Baozi Hui only grows muscles and not brains? He treats his brothers like brothers, but his brothers want to kick him into the mud!]
Bao Zihui, who had already run far away, was still within the range of Xin Sheng's voice. After hearing what the two said, he almost stumbled and fell flat on his face.
Tears welled up inside him. Who was it that wanted to harm him and even try to kick him into the mud? Get out! He vowed to kill the person who did it right then and there!
As Bao Zihui ran near his own courtyard, he saw several men in black fighting with the guards. While running, he drew a short blade from his sleeve and aimed it straight at the throat of the man blocking his way. His actions were decisive and ruthless, showing no trace of the scholarly air one might expect.
Bao Zihui did not linger in the fight, dodging and weaving with great agility, demonstrating a formidable foundation in martial arts.
With steady steps, he charged forward without giving an inch, until he reached the bride, whose head was still covered by a veil.
As the crowd around him grew larger and larger, and he still couldn't break through the defenses of the Bao family's guards, the leader in black's eyes grew even colder.
If they don't act quickly, they will surely return empty-handed today. With a wave of his hand, he silently gave the order to the assassins.
The attack came like a storm, but Bao Zihui held the bride tightly behind him.
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