After a silent night, the next day, Wufu received the imperial edict of marriage. Although it was somewhat peculiar, considering that Ah Jiu was a foreign prince, yet the Emperor of Nanyue granted the marriage, neither party said anything, and others would not speak much either, at most they would privately express some bitterness. 𝓯𝙧𝙚𝒆𝙬𝙚𝒃𝙣𝙤𝒗𝓮𝓵.𝙘𝙤𝙢

Following the edict, Yan Er, representing Ah Jiu’s side, brought an official from the Beiyan Ministry of Rites to Changqing Residence to propose to Madam Zhou. This left Madam Zhou flustered and helpless, prompting her to invite Wufu’s mentor Old Mr. Meng to discuss the matter.

The news that a Beiyan official had gone to Wufu’s home to propose quickly spread throughout Changan City. This move seemed urgent but more like it was well-prepared. Everyone was eager to see what the betrothal gifts from Beiyan would be.

Meanwhile, the two involved were hiding in the house next to Changqing Residence, whispering sweet words to each other.

"... Were you truly prepared for this?" Wufu looked at Ah Jiu. "You’re determined to bring me back to Beiyan this time, aren’t you?"

Ah Jiu replied, "It was Royal Mother who was prepared."

"Hmm?"

"I originally planned to take you back to Beiyan and then pick an auspicious day for the wedding. But Royal Mother had Yan Er come; she hopes you will go to Beiyan openly and honorably." Ah Jiu said with a smile, "So that’s why all this happened. But rest assured, once we are in Beiyan, the Imperial Astronomical Observatory will choose the best day for the wedding."

Wufu was truly shocked: "This... what virtues or abilities do I have? She has never even met me!"

She couldn’t fathom that the Empress Dowager of Beiyan was so open-minded and went to such lengths for someone she’s never met. What virtues or abilities does she possess?

"I’ve long expressed my determination to Royal Mother that I would marry no one but you. Royal Mother, though she hasn’t met you, has seen your portrait." Ah Jiu held her hand and said, "Royal Mother has always been fond of me; perhaps, this is her way of compensating me."

"Hmm?"

Ah Jiu pursed his lips, "In my youth, many believed she would support me to ascend to that position, because after all, I am her only legitimate son."

Wufu realized, considering the birth of the biological mother, he is more noble than the current Emperor of Beiyan; he is the Empress Dowager’s legitimate son.

"I’ve never desired that position; I only want to be happy. I imagine Royal Mother feels the same, wanting me to be joyful and carefree."

Wufu smiled and said, "Furthermore, once I go to Beiyan, if truly I’m not suitable for you, she can always replace me! For one in power, making a foreign woman disappear without a trace is quite easy."

"Wufu..." Ah Jiu frowned.

"Sorry, I didn’t mean to doubt the lady’s intentions; it’s just that your customs make me think those in power have the capability to act as they wish, especially someone at the pinnacle of authority." Wufu covered his mouth and said, "Rest assured, I will ensure I’m worthy and suitable for you."

"You sometimes are too rational!" Ah Jiu smiled wryly, pulling her close, "I won’t let you down, trust me."

Wufu leaned against his chest and said, "I know, I trust you, you won’t let me down."

Trusting him was not due to the Heart-devouring Gu within her but because she knew he was willing to sacrifice his life for her; how could he ever disappoint her?

But he is himself, others are others. Compared to trusting others, she trusts herself more. She appreciates the Empress Dowager of Beiyan’s intentions and, if she can truly marry Ah Jiu, she would serve her sincerely till the end.