A few days passed, and a eunuch presented Feng Li with a decree of marriage. The wedding was set to take place one month later. According to tradition, Feng Li and Yu Xin were forbidden to meet until the day of their marriage. Both of them were dissatisfied with this arrangement, especially Feng Li, who yearned to have Yu Xin by his side, bound to him in every way.
As the days ticked by, the anticipation grew, and finally, the long-awaited day arrived. Feng Li and Yu Xin were about to be united in matrimony. Feng Li, who had been separated from Yu Xin for a whole month, was so elated that he felt like sharing his happiness with the entire city. His heart brimmed with excitement, eagerly awaiting the moment when he could finally hold Yu Xin in his arms again. And Yu Xin, too, was filled with joy, eager to become Feng Li's partner for life.
On the day of wedding,
An Nuo, with a mix of emotions in his heart, gazed at his son, Yu Xin, who was resplendent in a stunning red wedding dress. His eyes brimmed with tears of pride and happiness. He quickly wiped them away, not wanting Yu Xin to see him cry on this momentous day.
Meanwhile, Yu Xin sat before the mirror, studying his reflection with a blend of excitement and nervousness. His plump lips were adorned with a vibrant shade of red, and his eyebrows were gently darkened, accentuating his charming features. He had firmly declined the maids' offer to apply foundation and excessive beauty products on his face, preferring to embrace his natural beauty.
As he observed himself, his cheeks flushed with a rosy hue, and his eyes glistened with a hint of tears. He looked undeniably cute and endearing. The radiant red wedding dress he wore made him sparkle like a little star, captivating everyone who laid eyes on him. It was a sight to behold, and An Nuo couldn't help but feel overwhelmed with pride and love for his son on this significant day.
As the highly anticipated moment approached, the maid gently covered Yu Xin's face with a delicate and intricately designed veil, adding an air of mystery and allure to the already charming bride-to-be.
On the other side of the scene, Feng Li was clad in his own resplendent red wedding dress. Although he didn't wear a wide grin, his eyes were alight with happiness and excitement. It was evident to anyone who observed him that he was truly joyful on this momentous occasion. The dress hugged his narrow yet strong waist, accentuating his regal and commanding presence. He stood tall and dignified, akin to a majestic pine tree, exuding an aura of power and grace.
Li Long, a devoted subordinate, approached Feng Li, announcing with respect, "Your Highness, it's time."
A soft smile tugged at Feng Li's lips as he nodded in acknowledgment. With his heart brimming with anticipation, he stepped out, ready to embark on the journey to marry his beloved.
Seated gracefully on his majestic horse, a magnificent wedding carriage trailing behind him, Feng Li set forth towards General Yu's house, the venue where his union with Yu Xin would be sealed. As he made his way, joyous firecrackers burst into vivid colors, proclaiming the joyous occasion. The children were gifted candies, and the adults indulged in delectable sweets, all in celebration of the grand event that was unfolding before them.
Upon arriving at General Yu's house, Feng Li gracefully dismounted from his horse, ready to take Yu Xin away as his cherished bride. However, to his surprise, his soldiers mustered the courage to step forward and halt his progress. They stood before him, their eyes sparkling mischievously, as one of them spoke up with a cheerful tone, "Sir if you wish to take ma'am away, you must first solve our riddles."
Feng Li's lips curved into a knowing smile, accepting their playful challenge without hesitation. He nodded, silently preparing himself to tackle their riddles and impress them with his wit.
With each riddle posed, Feng Li effortlessly provided the answers, much to the delight of his soldiers. They chuckled in admiration, impressed by their future king's intelligence and charm.
Finally, the way was cleared for Feng Li to enter the house and find Yu Xin, the love of his life, waiting for him with veiled anticipation. Without a moment's hesitation, Feng Li approached Yu Xin, his heart swelling with affection and excitement. Behind the veil, he saw the glimmer of tears in Yu Xin's eyes, which only deepened his resolve to protect and cherish him for all eternity.
In a tender gesture, Feng Li scooped Yu Xin into his arms, holding him horizontally like the most precious treasure. He stepped out of the house, carrying Yu Xin with utmost care as if handling something fragile and delicate. With a smile on his face, he gently placed Yu Xin inside the wedding carriage, ensuring his comfort and safety.
Once inside the carriage, Feng Li took Yu Xin's hand and kissed it affectionately, stealing a moment of intimacy hidden from the prying eyes of others. His love for Yu Xin radiated from every touch, and every gesture, as they prepared to embark on their new life together as husband and wife.
After the affectionate moment with Yu Xin, Feng Li turned to face General Yu and An Nuo, who stood with bittersweet smiles on their faces. The happiness of their son's wedding was evident, but it was tinged with the sorrow of seeing him leave their home.
General Yu, the stern and powerful figure he was, looked directly into Feng Li's eyes. His voice carried a firmness that reflected his protective nature as he spoke, "Feng Li, you are my apprentice, and I have faith in you. But let me make one thing clear: if you ever make my son unhappy, I won't hesitate to take action."
An Nuo, the gentle and loving father, immediately added his plea, his voice tinged with emotion, "Please take good care of him and don't let him down. He means the world to us."
Feng Li bowed respectfully to both of them, acknowledging their concerns and their trust in him. As he straightened up, determination shone in his eyes, and he replied with unwavering sincerity, "I promise you both, I will cherish him and love him forever. His happiness and well-being are my utmost priority."
His words eased the worries in General Yu and An Nuo's hearts, and they exchanged knowing glances, reassured by Feng Li's commitment. They knew their son was in good hands.
With a final display of respect, Feng Li mounted his horse, ready to depart toward the palace, where they would begin their life together as husband and wife. As he rode away, the love and determination in his heart filled the air, creating an aura of hope and happiness that would mark the start of their journey as a married couple.
The palace hall was adorned with elegant decorations, and the air was filled with an air of anticipation and excitement as the wedding ceremony commenced. The emperor, dressed in resplendent robes, sat on his ornate throne, his presence commanding the attention of all those present. The courtiers, ministers, and officials gathered in their finest attire, forming a grand and colorful audience.
As the wedding procession advanced, the atmosphere became hushed, all eyes fixated on the soon-to-be-married couple. Feng Li and Yu Xin walked hand in hand, their fingers intertwined with a subtle yet profound intimacy. Yu Xin's cheeks were tinged with a gentle rosy hue, a combination of happiness and shyness, while Feng Li's serene countenance displayed a sense of pride and joy.
Before the magnificent throne, they came to a stop, facing the emperor, the embodiment of authority and wisdom. The emperor's gaze fell upon the two young men, his eyes warm and benevolent. He spoke with a voice that resonated throughout the hall, "Feng Li and Yu Xin, you have gathered here today to unite in matrimony, a bond that shall intertwine your destinies for eternity. Your love has blossomed, defying the odds and obstacles. Today, we witness the union of two hearts, bound by the purest of emotions."
The emperor's words seemed to wash away Yu Xin's initial embarrassment, filling him with a sense of significance and solemnity. He stood straighter, meeting the emperor's gaze with newfound determination.
"I am honored," the emperor continued, "to bless this union and declare you husband and wife. May your love only grow stronger with each passing day, and may your union bring prosperity and joy to your lives."
The words of the emperor resonated in the hearts of everyone present, their emotions stirred by the sincerity and beauty of the moment. The audience erupted in applause, celebrating the love that had triumphed over all obstacles.
With the celebration in full swing, the court was alive with revelry and merriment. The vibrant colors of silk garments and the joyful laughter of the attendees filled the grand hall, creating an atmosphere of blissful enchantment. Feng Li and Yu Xin, the newlywed couple, were the center of attention, their love story captivating the hearts of everyone present.
Amidst the festivities, Feng Li's eyes remained fixated on Yu Xin, his gaze unwavering and brimming with affection. He couldn't help but admire the radiant beauty of his beloved. With a gentle touch, he lifted the edge of Yu Xin's veil, revealing his blushing face. The sight of his rosy cheeks and bright eyes took Feng Li's breath away, and he couldn't resist leaning in to place a tender kiss on Yu Xin's cheek, a gesture of intimacy meant only for their eyes.
Yu Xin's heart fluttered at the sweet gesture, and he felt a rush of warmth spreading through his entire being. The world around them seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them in their private moment of love. His eyes closed, savoring the sensation of Feng Li's affectionate touch, feeling the imprint of the kiss on his cheek like a soft promise of a lifetime together.
As Feng Li pulled away, the veil fell back into place, concealing Yu Xin's blushing visage. But behind that thin barrier, their eyes locked, and a silent conversation passed between them, filled with unspoken vows and declarations of love.
"I love you," Yu Xin whispered, the words carrying the weight of his deepest emotions.
"And I love you too," Feng Li replied, his voice a tender caress that echoed the sentiment in his heart.
In that magical moment, they shared an unbreakable bond, strengthened by their promises and sealed with their affectionate exchange. Their love was a beacon of light, shining brightly amidst the sea of well-wishers and celebrants.
As they turned to face the cheering crowd, their smiles radiated infectious happiness. Everyone could feel the genuine love between the crown prince and his spouse, a love that defied expectations and norms, a love that had triumphed over all obstacles.