The grand hall of the royal palace was adorned with exquisite decorations, reflecting the opulence and splendor befitting a royal wedding. Silk banners in rich hues of red and gold draped the walls, and delicate lanterns cast a warm, inviting glow. The air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers, meticulously arranged in ornate vases.Aoi stood at the entrance, her heart pounding with a mix of anticipation and anxiety. She wore a stunning bridal gown, intricately embroidered with golden threads that shimmered in the light. Her hair was styled elegantly, adorned with delicate hairpins and a jeweled tiara that sparkled like stars.The ceremony began with the sound of traditional music, played by skilled musicians seated at the front of the hall. The melody was both soothing and uplifting, setting the tone for the momentous occasion. Aoi walked down the aisle, her steps measured and graceful, as the guests watched in awe.Zhao Han stood at the altar, his presence commanding and regal. He wore a ceremonial robe of deep crimson, embroidered with golden dragons that symbolized power and prosperity. His eyes never left Aoi as she approached, a soft smile playing on his lips. Despite the outward display of affection, both of them felt a sense of detachment, knowing that this union was born out of necessity rather than love.As Aoi reached the altar, Zhao Han extended his hand to her, his touch gentle and reassuring. They stood side by side, facing the officiant who would conduct the ceremony. The officiant, a wise and respected elder, began the proceedings with a series of blessings and prayers, invoking the favor of the heavens upon the couple.The vows were exchanged, each word spoken with sincerity and commitment. Zhao Han's voice was steady and confident, while Aoi's was filled with emotion. They pledged to support and cherish each other, to face the challenges of life together, and to uphold the honor of their union. Yet, beneath the surface, both of them felt the weight of the charade they were performing.As the ceremony drew to a close, the officiant presented them with a ceremonial cup of wine, symbolizing their shared journey. They each took a sip, sealing their vows with this ancient tradition. The guests erupted in applause, their cheers echoing through the grand hall.The newlyweds turned to face the crowd, their hands intertwined. Zhao Han's smile was radiant, and Aoi felt a sense of relief and hope. Despite the circumstances that had brought them together, she couldn't deny the warmth and sincerity in his eyes. However, both of them knew that this display of affection was merely for show.The celebration that followed was a grand affair, with feasting, dancing, and merriment. The palace was alive with laughter and joy, as guests congratulated the couple and wished them a prosperous future. Aoi and Zhao Han moved through the crowd, accepting well-wishes and sharing moments of genuine connection. They maintained their facade of being a loving couple, but inside, they felt a sense of emptiness.The Empress Dowager is a figure of immense authority and grace, embodying the wisdom and experience of a lifetime spent in the highest echelons of power. Her presence commands respect and reverence from all who encounter her. She has a regal bearing, with a posture that is always upright and dignified. Her hair, though streaked with silver, is meticulously styled, often adorned with intricate hairpins and ornaments that signify her status.Her eyes are sharp and discerning, capable of seeing through the facades of those around her. They hold a depth of knowledge and understanding that comes from years of navigating the complexities of court life. Despite her age, her skin remains smooth and fair, a testament to her noble lineage and the care she takes in her appearance.The Empress Dowager's attire was always elegant and elaborate, reflecting her high rank. She favored rich, deep colors like royal purple and crimson, often embroidered with gold and silver threads. Her robes were adorned with symbols of her power and authority, such as dragons and phoenixes, which were meticulously crafted by the finest artisans. Her demeanor was calm and composed, rarely showing any hint of emotion. She spoke with a measured, authoritative tone, and her words carried great weight."So you're Ce Fēi, the consort? You look... average. Bow down," the Empress Dowager commanded, her voice echoing through the grand hall.Aoi bowed deeply, her heart pounding in her chest. She glanced around, taking in the opulent surroundings and the stern faces of the courtiers. As she was about to kneel, she heard a sweet and deep voice from behind."No need to bow, Ce Fēi," the voice said gently.She felt a soft caress on her hair and turned to see the Crown Prince, Zhao Han, standing behind her. His presence was commanding yet comforting, his eyes filled with a warmth that contrasted sharply with the Empress Dowager's cold demeanor.The Empress Dowager's eyes narrowed slightly, but she said nothing, her expression remaining impassive. The courtiers exchanged glances, their curiosity piqued by the Crown Prince's unexpected intervention.Ce Fēi straightened up, her heart still racing. She felt a mix of relief and confusion, unsure of what to make of the Crown Prince's actions. Zhao Han's hand lingered on her hair for a moment longer before he stepped back, giving her space."Thank you, Your Highness," Ce Fēi said softly, her voice trembling slightly."Is it okay, mother? She won't kneel," Zhao Han looked at the Empress Dowager with a slight smirk, challenging her to speak up.The Empress Dowager's eyes narrowed noticeably in annoyance, but she said nothing and plastered a fake sweet smile on her face. "Yes, Ce Fēi. You don't need to kneel. We're all family here," she said, rolling her eyes mockingly at Aoi.Sensing the tension, Aoi prepared to kneel again, thinking it was better to play it safe. As she pulled up her dress a bit to kneel, Zhao Han gripped her arm, his tone hardening. "It's an order from the Crown Prince to not kneel. Are you disobeying it, Ce Fēi?" he asked, looking directly at Aoi."Empress Dowager, mother, please forgive my rude behavior," Aoi bowed again, a little bit of anxiousness clear in her voice as she went to sit on her seat."Sit on the ground, Ce Fēi. We haven't brought any chair for Ce Fēi yet," the Empress spoke up, her voice dripping with disdain."She has no time for chatting, it's our first night in marriage. I hope you give us some privacy, Empress Dowager," Zhao Han spoke up as Aoi was about to sit down on the ground.The Empress Dowager's eyes narrowed noticeably in annoyance, but she maintained her composure, her fake sweet smile never wavering. The courtiers around them exchanged glances, sensing the tension in the room. Aoi, feeling the weight of the Empress Dowager's gaze, hesitated, unsure of what to do.Zhao Han's voice was firm and authoritative, cutting through the silence like a knife. "Mother, it's our first night together. Surely you understand the importance of privacy," he said, his tone leaving no room for argument.