The sun rose gently over Rodia Village, its golden rays spilling across the cobbled paths and simple wooden houses. But today, the sleepy village bore a festive air rarely seen in its long, humble history.
Bright red ribbons were tied to fences and rooftops, fluttering softly in the morning breeze. Lanterns of silk and paper, bearing intricate symbols of good fortune and longevity, hung from every arch and tree. The main street, usually dusty and worn, was swept clean and covered with woven mats and flower petals. In the village square, a ceremonial altar had been erected, surrounded by tables laden with local delicacies and fruits. A giant crimson banner stretched across the entrance to the square, reading:
"May the Heavens Bless this Union with Eternal Happiness."
Elder Chen stood at the edge of the festivities, his aged eyes misty with a bittersweet emotion. At 60, he was considered quite old for a civilian whose soul power barely touched level 9 all his life. Every joint ached when he moved, and he knew , with the quiet certainty of a man who has lived long . that his time was drawing near.
His greatest regret had always been the stagnation of his beloved village. Rodia barely survived, with its people relying on modest farming, cattle rearing, and a few skilled hunters who ventured into the forest for wild game. Every copper coin was hard-earned, and yet, the Empire's tax collectors came without fail, squeezing the village of what little it had. Progress, therefore, was a dream buried under poverty.
But it seemed that Goddess of Fate had finally smiled upon them.
One month ago, everything changed. Three noble soul masters had arrived at their humble gates. Without preamble or arrogance, they declared that Rodia Village had been selected as the site for a wedding. They offered generous payment in exchange for the villagers' help in preparing the event , more money than many of the villagers had seen in years.
And now… Rodia was transformed.
"Maybe... just maybe, now this old man can rest easy after all," Elder Chen murmured to himself, watching a group of young villagers laughing as they helped adjust a decorative flower ring around the ceremonial platform
Elegant carriages had begun arriving since morning. Nobles from Heaven Dou City, dressed in fine silk robes, disembarked with curious expressions. They looked around at the rustic surroundings, some with disdain, others with quiet amusement.
Flender was surprised when the nobles from the Heaven Dou City arrived. Beside him, moving with silent grace, was a young blonde girl which he subconsciously ignored. He knew the nobles so he went forward to greet them.
"Ah, Lord Feng," Flender greeted, clasping the man's forearm in a friendly grip. "We're honored by your presence. But how did you come here?"
The girl beside him had long blonde hair which shimmered faintly in the sunlight, but it was her purple eyes that caught attention of the nobles before they started to subconsciously ignore her.
"Hah!" the nobleman chuckled, his belly shaking. "How we come is not the question? We have come to be part of the celebration."
More nobles began to arrive from the aristocracy of Heaven Dou City, others from influential merchant houses. Flender though surprised received them all with grace, exchanging rehearsed pleasantries and gentle smiles, subtly directing them toward their seats while letting each believe their presence was especially valued.
More nobles began to arrive from the aristocracy of Heaven Dou City, others from influential merchant houses. Flender though surprised received them all with grace, exchanging rehearsed pleasantries and gentle smiles.
Flender caught glimpses of the whispers. disdain, amusement and subtle glances exchanged among the guests, a shadow of unease grew within him. However, he brushed it off, focusing on the day at hand.
Meanwhile, Yu Xiaogang, the groom-to-be, stood inside a modest wooden room, preparing himself for what he believed would be the most triumphant moment of his life. He wore a well-fitted maroon robe, edged with golden embroidery , a gift from Liu Erlong herself. His hair was tied neatly, and a rare confidence radiated from his otherwise restrained face.
He glanced at himself in the mirror and smiled faintly. "Today, everything changes," he whispered to his reflection.
Outside, a hush swept through the crowd. All the children along with their parents watched with bated breath as the bride came. Including a blonde haired girl in the crowd, who everyone thought is someone's child in the village.
Liu Erlong stepped into the square, draped in a brilliant red bridal gown that shimmered like liquid flame under the morning sun. Golden phoenixes danced along the fabric, and her hair was adorned with jeweled pins and a delicate crown. A soft red veil covered her face, but her presence , proud and radiant, drew every eye.
Yu Xiaogang froze as she approached.
Flender stood silently to the side, forcing a smile. In his heart, he felt a deep ache — an ache he had long buried but never truly forgotten. His friend was marrying the woman he loved, and though he had chosen loyalty over desire, the pain was no less sharp.
Still, he clasped his hands together and said warmly, "Congratulations, Erlong. You look… magnificent."
Liu Erlong turned toward him slightly, her eyes visible through the veil. She nodded gently. "Thank you, Brother Flender."
"The two of you..." Flender muttered under his breath, offering a tight smile. "Be happy."
Just as the priest raised his hands and began to speak the ceremonial words, the peaceful atmosphere shattered.
A thunderous voice, laced with power and indignation, echoed across the square:
"I do not agree to this marriage!"
----
Author notes: Qian Renxue was present there to give psychological cue to all the visiting nobles, to not talk about Liu Erlong and Yu Xiaogang's relationship. Most of the nobles in Heaven Dou city are weak so it did not take much effort by Qian Renxue to hypnotise and give some psychological cue.