Chapter 52: Tying the Hair to Become Husband and Wife

Twenty days isn’t a long time, but it isn’t short either.

The weather grew hotter, and before they knew it, it was the middle of the sixth month.

A while ago, it had been the busy farming season. While inspecting the common people’s conditions outside the city, Shen Ji had unexpectedly discovered that the local farm tools were outdated. In his youth, he had read a variety of books and had seen diagrams of more effective farm tools. He immediately redrew them, gave them to the blacksmith shops to be forged, and distributed them to the common folk for trial use.

During this period, he would continue to make adjustments and changes wherever they were not suitable.

Shen Ji was busy with this matter, leaving early and returning late. Sometimes, he wouldn’t be seen for the entire day.

Su Zhenyue was not surprised by this at all.

She had long known that he was skilled at making mechanical devices. Back at the Jing An Marquis Estate in the capital, he had made a sleeve arrow for her, which she was still using now.

Not only did she use it herself, but she also had a set made for Nanxing.

“If you’re ever in danger, this could save your life,” Su Zhenyue instructed her carefully.

Nanxing smiled. “Don’t worry, Miss. I know. I will practice with it diligently.”

It was better to be safe than sorry. Although Prince Yan had sent a team of personal guards over, so they usually didn’t have to worry about their safety, having a little more ability to protect oneself was never a bad thing.

“By the way, Miss. Is your wedding gown embroidered yet?”

At Nanxing’s question, Su Zhenyue immediately took it out to show her. “It’s almost done. Just the cuffs are left. I was thinking of embroidering some more patterns. What kind of design do you think would be good?”

——She had said she would make her own wedding gown, but this Moonlight Brocade already had its own patterns, so she didn’t need to embroider too much.

Nanxing pondered for a moment before giving her suggestion. “How about auspicious clouds?”

It was simple to embroider and had a good meaning.

“Alright,” Su Zhenyue nodded, then pulled Nanxing down to sit. “Nanxing, when I get married, I want you to be my family.”

“Me? How could I?” Nanxing was startled and stood up abruptly.

“Why not? In my eyes, you’re no different from a real sister to me.”

Nanxing was a little flustered. “Miss, you jest.”

Her parents had died early. When her unscrupulous uncle was about to sell her into a brothel, it was the old madam of the Su family who took pity on her, bought her, and brought her home.

She had always remembered this kindness. Although the Su family had long since freed her from her servant contract, she was still willing to stay and take care of the Su family’s young lady.

“How could I be jesting? I’m serious.” Su Zhenyue grew a little anxious and grasped Nanxing’s hand. “My parents and grandmother all passed away early. You’re the only one who was with me back when I was still in the Su family. For so many years, we first went to the Jing An Marquis Estate, and then we came here to Anle County. We nearly lost our lives several times. You are the person who has been with me the longest, and you are my dearest, dearest person…”

As she spoke, tears began to fall.

She was the only one who knew about that long dream. In that dream, Nanxing had lost her life for her. She had gone to great lengths, practically putting her own life on the line to avenge Nanxing, but she could not bring Nanxing back.

In her heart, Nanxing was different from everyone else.

Afraid that Nanxing would not agree, Su Zhenyue deliberately put on a pitiful expression. “If you won’t do it, then I won’t even have a family member from my side. That would be too pathetic.”

As expected, Nanxing’s attitude soon softened. She said hesitantly, “If Miss doesn’t mind, then I will act as your family.”

“Good, then it’s settled. No backing out.” Su Zhenyue clapped her hands lightly, her smile brilliant.

Nanxing smiled too, knowing that her mistress had been doing that on purpose just now, and her heart was moved.

The two chatted for a while, and Su Zhenyue asked about her girlish thoughts, “Nanxing, have you ever thought about what kind of person you want to marry in the future?”

Nanxing shook her head. “No. I haven’t thought about those things.”

Su Zhenyue blinked. “Well, if you do, just tell me. I might be able to help you.”

She reckoned she had some experience in this area.

Nanxing chuckled and nodded.

—— —— —— ——

The wedding day drew closer and closer, and Su Zhenyue gradually grew nervous.

In the blink of an eye, it was the seventeenth of the sixth month, the night before the wedding.

Su Zhenyue had bathed early and was about to rest when a “knock, knock, knock” suddenly sounded at the door.

“Miss—”

“Nanxing?” Su Zhenyue was slightly surprised as she opened the door.

Under the dim yellow light, Nanxing’s cheeks were slightly flushed. She asked, a little embarrassed, “Is Miss going to sleep?”

“Not yet.” Su Zhenyue looked at her expression. “Is something the matter?”

“There is a small matter.” Nanxing entered the room, carefully closed the door, hesitated for a moment, took a deep breath, and took out a small booklet from her sleeve.

Su Zhenyue’s expression changed slightly, though it wasn’t obvious in the lamplight.

Nanxing was extremely embarrassed and couldn’t meet her gaze. She just lowered her eyes and braced herself. “I heard that a bride should look at this before her wedding. Miss doesn’t have any female elders, so I bought it for you to see. I… I’ll go back now. Miss, just take a quick look to get a general idea, and… and then rest early.”

After speaking, she fled in a hurry.

Su Zhenyue did not open the booklet.

She knew what it was. In that long dream, before she was married off to the Shu Region, Madam Zhou of the Jing An Marquis Estate had also mysteriously given her a small booklet to read and had placed one in her trousseau.

But only after arriving in the Shu Region did she discover that marrying Yuan Ye was the beginning of a nightmare.

Recalling the past, Su Zhenyue felt a little apprehensive. But she quickly forced herself not to dwell on those things.

It was different. Everything was different.

There was no arranged marriage, and Shen Ji had also escaped that great fire.

They were about to become husband and wife and live a lifetime of happiness.

After comforting herself like this several times, Su Zhenyue felt much more at ease. She didn’t flip through the booklet and went straight to bed.

Perhaps because her mind was preoccupied, Su Zhenyue did not sleep soundly that night.

In a daze, she heard someone say, “The groom is here,” and she was startled to find herself sitting on the wedding bed.

The next moment, her red veil was lifted, and she saw Yuan Ye’s deathly pale face!

Su Zhenyue woke up from the dream, drenched in a cold sweat.

At the same time, Nanxing’s voice sounded from outside. “Miss, it’s time to get up.”

“Mm, I know.” Su Zhenyue did her best to calm her breathing, got out of bed, and lit a lamp.

It was only the fifth watch, but the rear residence of the Anle County yamen was already bustling with activity.

The hair-dressing lady and the matron of good fortune had arrived early. There were also several female guests, either neighbors or the female relatives of some subordinates.

They helped Su Zhenyue with her makeup and hair and to change into her wedding gown.

Su Zhenyue had delicate features and a refined, aloof temperament; she rarely wore such vibrant colors. Dressed up in her finery today, she was breathtakingly beautiful.

The people present, whether out of flattery or sincerity, offered a constant stream of unique compliments.

Su Zhenyue didn’t speak, merely feigning shyness.

Amidst the lively noise, someone outside shouted, “Prince Yan is here!”

“Heavens, it’s Prince Yan!”

“It really is His Highness, Prince Yan!”

…

Prince Yan acted in a low-key manner, but in You Province, everyone knew his great name.

Hearing that Prince Yan had arrived, the crowd stirred with excitement. The female guests whispered to each other, their expressions thrilled.

Su Zhenyue was also quite surprised. After they had set the wedding date, they had indeed sent an invitation to Prince Yan’s estate. Yan Wangfei had also said she would come for the wedding wine. But Prince Yan’s estate was over a hundred li away, and they had already sent someone with a gift yesterday, fulfilling all the proper courtesies.

She really hadn’t expected Prince Yan to actually come in person.

“The Princess Consort and the Heir Apparent are here too! And so many other people!”

Inside the room, many of the female guests went to the door to watch the excitement.

Just then, Yan Wangfei walked in.

Everyone hurriedly bowed.

“No need for formalities. The bride and groom are the most important people today. I’m also here to congratulate the bride.” Yan Wangfei had a generous and straightforward personality. As she spoke, she walked up to Su Zhenyue. “Sister, I said I’d come for your wedding wine, and here I am, aren’t I?”

When Yan Wangfei traveled, she was followed by several valiant-looking female guards. She raised her hand, and someone immediately presented a wedding gift. “This Su embroidery screen was part of my dowry when I got married. Today, I’m giving it to you as an addition to your trousseau.”

It was an exquisite embroidered screen with a beautiful design and superb needlework. One could tell at a glance that it was priceless.

The female guests present gasped in amazement.

Su Zhenyue also quickly declined. “This is too valuable. How could I possibly accept?”

Yan Wangfei’s presence alone was already a great honor.

“Why can’t you? I don’t have a daughter. I see you as my own sister.” Yan Wangfei smiled, took Su Zhenyue’s hand, and was very affectionate.

“Thank you, Your Highness.” Su Zhenyue knew very well that a large part of the reason for this was that bottle of snake venom antidote.

——Although Prince Yan had also saved them later, Yan Wangfei still felt greatly indebted to them.

“What’s there to thank? We’re all family.” Yan Wangfei laughed heartily, patted her hand gently, and told her in a low voice, “Actually, we arrived yesterday.”

Su Zhenyue was slightly startled. “Then why didn’t Your Highness send someone to let us know? We could have hosted you properly.”

“Weren’t we afraid of causing you trouble? Besides, Prince Yan also wanted to observe the conditions of the common people.” Yan Wangfei sighed with emotion. “This Anle County is a bit different from the last time I passed through. It seems the Number One Scholar has put in a lot of effort since taking office.”

Su Zhenyue wanted to be modest on Shen Ji’s behalf, but then she thought of his hard work during this period. She only said, “Cousin has worked very hard.”

Yan Wangfei burst out laughing.

…

While Yan Wangfei was talking with Su Zhenyue, Prince Yan, the Heir Apparent, and the others were congratulating the groom.

——Originally, after receiving the invitation, Prince Yan hadn’t planned to come in person. But the Princess Consort insisted, and the Heir Apparent was clamoring to come. It also just so happened that Prince Yan had an important matter to discuss with Shen Ji.

After a brief consideration, he decided to come.

He could treat it as a chance to relax and also show his respect for Shen Ji. But after actually arriving in Anle County, Prince Yan was secretly astonished.

Shen Ji had only been in office for a little over a month, but some changes were already faintly visible in Anle County.

It seemed it was truly heaven’s will. The Emperor had let such a talent go unused, delivering him right to his side for free.

At this thought, Prince Yan’s mood improved greatly.

The Heir Apparent was young and curious. He looked left and right, interested in everything. He had even borrowed a gong from somewhere and was striking it with great effort, “Clang, clang, clang, clang.”

Shi Jun was startled, afraid of an accident, and hurried to stop him.

Prince Yan, however, was unconcerned. “Leave him be. It’s rare for him to be so happy on an outing. Just don’t let the Princess Consort find out.”

“Yes,” Shi Jun complied. After a moment’s thought, he simply found a drum and stayed by the Heir Apparent’s side.

…

Although the bride and groom were both in the rear residence of the yamen, for the wedding to take place, none of the proper rites could be skipped.

The auspicious hour arrived, and the bridal sedan chair came.

Since the groom possessed the talent of a Number One Scholar, Yan Wangfei deliberately “made things difficult” for a while during the urging of the bride before the bride finally entered the sedan.

Firecrackers popped, gongs and drums cleared the way, and with the sound of music filling the air, the eight-bearer sedan chair circled the entire city of Anle County.

Su Zhenyue sat in the sedan chair, listening to the lively sounds outside, and the corners of her lips couldn’t help but curve up.

Shen Ji had said the wedding should be grand, and this was truly grand. She had no idea how much money it must have cost.

Never mind, never mind. Don’t think about that.

As long as one is happy on their wedding day, that’s all that matters.

Su Zhenyue’s thoughts drifted. She didn’t know how much time had passed before the sedan chair finally stopped.

“The bride is here, the bride is here…”

The cheerful shouts of children watching the excitement reached her ears. The next moment, the sedan curtain was lifted, and the wedding matron stuffed a red silk ribbon with an embroidered ball into her hand.

Su Zhenyue reached out and took one end. She knew that the other end of the red ribbon was held by Shen Ji.

“Don’t be afraid, I’m here,” she heard Shen Ji say amidst the clamor.

Su Zhenyue responded in a low voice, “Mm.”

Although the red veil blocked her vision, she didn’t feel the slightest bit of fear, only a faint nervousness.

It was a custom in Anle County to perform “carpet laying” on the wedding day, which meant laying down mats all the way from the bridal sedan to the main hall.

Su Zhenyue stepped onto the mats and walked forward, one step at a time.

Finally, she stopped in the main hall.

“The auspicious hour has arrived. The wedding ceremony begins. The new couple shall bow, giving thanks to Heaven and Earth!”

A somewhat familiar voice came through, and Su Zhenyue’s heart jumped in surprise. This… isn’t this Prince Yan?

Wasn’t the appointed Master of Ceremonies supposed to be Advisor Zeng? She remembered Advisor Zeng; he had a white beard and was quite old. His voice didn’t sound like this.

Su Zhenyue had not misheard. It was indeed Prince Yan officiating the wedding.

Initially, Prince Yan was just attending the wedding as an honored guest. Unexpectedly, Advisor Zeng, who was supposed to be the Master of Ceremonies, had suddenly disappeared. The auspicious hour was crucial and could not be delayed, so at his son’s urging, Prince Yan temporarily took on the role of Master of Ceremonies for today’s wedding.

It was Prince Yan’s first time doing such a thing, so he was inevitably a little rusty. But he had long been in a high position, and even the simple ceremonial words sounded quite imposing coming from his mouth.

“First bow to heaven and earth.”

“Second bow to the parents.”

“The couple bows to each other.”

“The ceremony is complete. Escort them to the bridal chamber.”

As his voice fell, the guests watching the ceremony all cheered.

Su Zhenyue’s cheeks burned as she was led into the bridal chamber.

——This room was the main chamber of the yamen’s rear residence. It had been left empty since their party arrived and had been specially renovated and decorated a few days ago, all for today.

Previously, when she and Shen Ji were at the Jing An Marquis Estate, they had also had a makeshift ceremony. But that one was simple and couldn’t compare to today’s at all.

It wasn’t just the environment, but also the state of mind of the two of them.

Su Zhenyue knew this, and Shen Ji was also well aware of it.

It was strange. They were just three simple bows, yet he felt as if his heart was about to leap out of his chest.

Calming himself, Shen Ji, surrounded by the crowd, came to the bridal chamber.

Su Zhenyue sat primly on the bed, not moving a muscle, but her heart was exceptionally nervous.

“The groom lifts the veil, may the new couple’s wishes come true.” The wedding matron smilingly handed Shen Ji an auspicious steelyard.

Shen Ji took a deep breath, steadied his arm, and under the watchful eyes of the crowd, lifted the red veil embroidered with twin lotuses on a single stalk.

Her vision suddenly widened.

Su Zhenyue’s heart skipped a beat, and she half-raised her eyes. The first thing she saw was Shen Ji’s face.

She unconsciously let out a breath of relief, her red lips parting slightly as a smile rippled in her eyes.

Very good, it’s Shen Ji. I’m married to Shen Ji.

The wedding matron chimed in playfully, “The bride is so beautiful.”

Shen Ji didn’t speak, thinking to himself, She is beautiful.

Although she had always been beautiful, today was exceptionally different.

Next was the ceremony of drinking from the same cup.

A gourd was split into two halves to serve as wine cups, each filled with wine. The newlyweds each held a cup and drank with their arms linked.

While drinking, Su Zhenyue secretly glanced at Shen Ji.

His eyelids were lowered as he drank seriously.

She could almost see his long eyelashes. Her heart skipped a beat, and she quickly averted her gaze, downing her cup of wine as well.

She didn’t know if it was because of the wine, but her stomach felt warm, and even her cheeks were burning.

After drinking from the same cup came the ritual of sharing the same sacrificial animal.

The newlywed couple shared the meat of the same animal, symbolizing that they would share weal and woe.

When she had previously looked at the detailed steps of the wedding, Su Zhenyue had worried it would be troublesome, but now that she was doing it, she didn’t find it tedious at all.

She followed the wedding matron’s instructions step by step, earnest and devout.

“The bride and groom tie their hair, forever bound as one.”

Su Zhenyue took the silver scissors handed to her by the wedding matron and carefully snipped off a small lock of her hair.

At the same time, Shen Ji also cut a lock of his hair.

The wedding matron tied the two locks of hair together with a red silk thread, placed them in an exquisite sachet, and handed it to Su Zhenyue.

Tying the hair to become husband and wife, loving each other without a doubt.

“The bride must keep this safe.”

“Mm,” Su Zhenyue nodded.

With the tying of the hair, the ceremony was complete.

The wedding matron ushered everyone out.

But Shi Jun refused to leave, insisting on pulling Shen Ji to drink. “You can’t not drink today, can you?”

——Usually, Prince Yan was on his case, forbidding him from drinking. Today was a joyous occasion, so couldn’t he pull the groom for a good drink?

Helpless, Shen Ji whispered to Su Zhenyue, “I’m going out to entertain the guests.”

“Mm.” The words “I’ll wait for you to come back” were still on the tip of Su Zhenyue’s tongue when Shi Jun and the others started hooting and hollering.

“What are you two whispering about? Let us hear it too.”

Su Zhenyue couldn’t help but blush, but she wasn’t embarrassed or angry, only shy.

So this was what it felt like to marry the person you love.

In the end, it was Yan Wangfei who spoke up. “Go, go, everyone out. If you want to drink, go drink outside. Don’t cause trouble in here.”

The crowd feared Yan Wangfei, so they didn’t dare to cause any more trouble and left the bridal chamber one after another.

Shen Ji also went outside to entertain the guests.

The bridal chamber fell silent.

With Nanxing’s help, Su Zhenyue removed the coronet from her head and washed the powder and rouge from her face, feeling much more refreshed.

“Miss, are you hungry? Shall I get you something to eat?”

At Nanxing’s question, Su Zhenyue did feel a little hungry. She nodded. “Yes, please. Something simple will do.”

Before long, Nanxing brought a bowl of wontons.

Su Zhenyue was taken aback, unable to help but recall the scene from the Lantern Festival.

More than five months had passed in a flash, and she had actually become Shen Ji’s wife.