Although she didn't know what his intentions were, the joy in her heart was overwhelmingly submerged, never expecting that in ancient times, someone would propose to her, and an overbearing emperor at that. What more could she ask for in this life?
"Okay," she said softly, reaching out to take the large bouquet of flowers from his hand, smiling sweetly.
Within the bouquet was a small brocade box. Liu Zun reached out and opened it to reveal a perfectly round, crystal-clear black pearl.
This black pearl was extremely rare and incomparably precious, something unobtainable even with wealth. It was fashioned into a delicate ring, exquisitely beautiful. When worn on Qingyao's hand, the contrast between the black pearl and her fair skin was striking, making her hand appear even more delicate and soft, and the pearl more luminous.
"Thank you."
Qingyao spoke emotionally, tears welling in her eyes but ultimately held back. This was a moment of joy, and she should be happy.
Liu Zun reached out and embraced her. She was already three to four months pregnant, and everything had to be done with caution.
"We will be married in three days. I want to give you a grand wedding."
As soon as the Emperor finished speaking, Xiao Yu'er snapped her fingers, and Mo Chou and Bing Xiao walked over carrying a white wedding dress.
This wedding dress was something the Emperor himself saw for the first time, and he was immensely shocked. It was entirely white from top to bottom, exuding an aura of sanctity.
The neckline and hem were embroidered with silver thread in a wave pattern. There were no long sleeves; instead, there were sleeve-like coverings. Mu Rong Liu Zun looked at it, imagining how stunning Yao'er would look wearing this wedding dress.
However, he ultimately couldn't quite imagine it, as he had never seen anyone wear such clothing before.
Qingyao emerged from Mu Rong Liu Zun's embrace and walked towards the wedding dress, gently caressing it with her hands.
This wedding dress was identical to the one she had chosen in her previous life. The difference was the addition of arm coverings, likely because Xiao Yu'er considered that ancient people might not accept such revealing attire, hence the unique design.
"Mother, do you like it?"
Xiao Yu'er asked with a smile. Qingyao cupped the wedding dress in her hands and held it against her face. The fabric was so soft, far superior to anything from modern times.
At this moment, she found herself unable to adequately express her feelings. This time, she was truly wearing a wedding dress for the man she loved.
"Yes, I like it."
In the imperial garden, a fragrant breeze swept through, filling the air with warmth.
Three days later, the Emperor issued an imperial decree: from this day forward, the six palaces would have no other consorts; only the Empress would remain.
Because a villain had previously deposed the Empress, the Emperor and Empress were now holding a grand wedding ceremony, celebrating with the people and personally venturing into the marketplace.
News of this spread like firecrackers in Lin'an City, or like boiling water, igniting an unprecedented wave of excitement. Everyone rushed out, eager to catch a glimpse of the Emperor and Empress, and to hear tales of their legendary love.
The sun blazed in the sky. Streets and alleys teemed with people, and every lane was packed, overflowing with crowds.
The flow of people on the streets resembled rolling waves. Never before had such a lively scene been witnessed. It seemed as though everyone in Lin'an City had come out. The sides of the streets were so densely packed that not a drop of water could pass, and everyone craned their necks, stretching to see.
Emperor Xian, celebrating with the people, who wouldn't want to see the current Empress, renowned for her intelligence and strategy? She had not only aided the Emperor in unifying the seven kingdoms but had also implemented new policies that yielded excellent results in military, civil, and commercial affairs.
This was the most prosperous era of Xianyue in over two hundred years.
This woman was like a legend, a legendary woman in the eyes of the world.
The sounds of music and ceremony grew nearer. The common people surged forward, eager to catch a clearer glimpse of the Empress's elegance.
However, most people didn't hold out much hope, as the Emperor and Empress were surely seated within the imperial carriage, making it impossible for anyone to see their true faces.
The Emperor's iron cavalry advanced in a mighty procession, with a thousand soldiers clad in silver armor leading the way.
Following them was the ceremonial guard, playing a melody of "Feng Qiu Huang" (A Phoenix Seeks Its Mate). The tune was warm and lingering, soaring ethereally along the path. Everyone listened, feeling refreshed and inspired. Behind them was a magnificent imperial carriage.
Seated regally within the carriage were the Emperor and Empress. To everyone's surprise, the silken drapes of the carriage were removed, revealing the Emperor and Empress seated within.
Their faces, of unparalleled beauty and grace, were presented to the crowd. The sunlight cast a thousand golden rays upon them, momentarily dazzling everyone.
The Empress of the present dynasty, her face like a water-blooming hibiscus, was exquisitely beautiful, dressed in a flowing, trailing white gown.
This gown was of a style they had never seen before, ethereal and sacred. Its unique cut fit her perfectly, enhancing her bust, accentuating her slender waist, making her appear as graceful as a willow, and almost impossibly delicate.
The cuffs and neckline were embroidered with silver thread in a wave pattern. The sleeves were separate gauze coverings worn on the arms, revealing glimpses of soft, tender skin while concealing everything perfectly.
Her entire presence was elegant and refined, sacred and graceful. In the fleeting glances of her eyes, there was an indescribable charm and an untold, peerless beauty.
Turning to Emperor Xian, he wore a purple brocade robe, overlaid with a white gauze garment. His entire demeanor exuded an imposing aura, casually languid. His eyes held a captivating, wicked charm, yet within the play of light, profound affection was revealed.
He took the Empress's hand, gazing deeply into her eyes. The flames of passion ignited between them, soaring through the air.
From the crowd, someone cried out, "Long live the Emperor, long live the Empress!"
More and more voices joined in, wave after wave, until the air was filled with shouts. The crowd knelt down in unison.
The street, a vast expanse of black, suddenly fell silent. A warm current seemed to flow through the air. Qingyao smiled at Liu Zun by her side.
They slowly rose and stood within the carriage. A gentle breeze blew, causing the gauze veil on her head to flutter like a flowing cloud. This magnificent scene remained etched in people's minds for a long time.
Emperor Xian's resonant voice rang out.
"Everyone, please rise. Today is a day of celebration with the people, a joyous occasion for all."
"Long live our Emperor, long live, ten thousand years!"
The powerful voices echoed once more, like thunder striking the ear.
The magnificent carriage moved on. The crowd rose, gazing at the receding vehicle. The deep affection between the Emperor and Empress became a timeless tale, the beautiful image permanently imprinted in their memories, remaining as clear as if it had just happened, even after ten or twenty years had passed.
As one group rose, another knelt again. Everyone was immersed in this joy, happiness spreading outwards as they traveled far.
Xiao Yu'er sat in Mo Chou's carriage, watching everything unfold. Tears filled her eyes. She had finally witnessed her don her wedding dress. She had waited for this deeply moving moment.
Mo Chou's gentle voice inquired, "Princess?"
"It's nothing, I'm just too happy," she replied, lifting her smiling face. The happiness was far from over; it would only grow more abundant and beautiful.
The imperial carriage circled the main streets of Lin'an City once before returning to the palace.
Within the imperial garden, the lingering glow of the setting sun bathed the entire area, amidst a riot of colors, fragrant scents wafted through the air...