Chapter 368.2: tense atmosphere

We left in a hurry just now and I didnt pay attention. Lets go back and search. Su Xi-er suggested as they retraced their steps.

Only once they were about to reach the Imperial Garden did they see Tan Ge walking over. Su Xi-er used the chance to take a glimpse of the interior of the Imperial Garden, but she was shocked to see that no one was looking at the high stage, even as the dancers performed.

Tan Ge looked at Su Xi-er and tugged at her sleeve. Lets quickly leave. Well get punished if people find us staying here. She then swiftly walked forward.

Watching her departing figure, Su Xi-er felt like she was watching someone who was frantically fleeing. Chao Mu also found her behaviour strange.

If shes afraid of getting punished, why did she choose to wait until now before leaving?

Su Xi-er didnt comment, and simply pulled Chao Mu in the direction of the Imperial Library.

~~~

In the Imperial Garden, the atmosphere had congealed after the matter of the marriage alliance between the Pei and Xie families had gone up in smoke. Perhaps the most surprising thing was that Xie Liuli had walked down from her seat in front of everyone, bowed to Pei Qianhao, then refused to marry him in front of everyone.

Besides the trace of smugness in her eyes when she looked at her father, Pei Yaran was completely unperturbed.

Even if I dont interfere, the matter that you meticulously planned still wont be successful. Pei Qianhao is not the kind of person who allows himself to be controlled. Hard tactics wont work on him.

Despite having maintained his gentle and genial expression in front of everyone, Xie Yuns face involuntarily darkened when he was caught off guard by his younger sisters surprising gesture.

She had promised me three times in her boudoir yesterday, yet this is todays result!

A moment later, Pei Qianhao stood up and held his wine cup towards Pei Zheng and Xie Yun. As Commandery Princess Xie is not interested in this Prince, I cant force her to marry me. Although its true that the two families have an engagement, this Prince doesnt want to short-change the Commandery Princess Xie. Please treat this toast as this Princes apology.

He raised the cup and downed its contents.

Xie Liuli faintly smiled. I am very happy that Prince Hao doesnt hold on to me. Liuli is extremely grateful. She then turned to look at Xie Yun. Elder Brother, dont be angry. Although the engagement no longer exists, Liuli hopes that the Pei and Xie families can restore our former good relations.

Pei Zheng wore a foul expression, a trace of reproach in his gaze as he looked at Xie Yun.

How is it possible to restore good relations when theres no marriage alliance?

Pei Qianhao chose this moment to add on, The two families have been at odds with one another for many years. If we dont improve our relations.h.i.+p, it will be detrimental to Beimin. He then made sure to look towards the Emperor.

After receiving such a look from Pei Qianhao, Situ Lin instantly became nervous, but quickly responded, What Imperial Uncle said makes sense, and this Emperor hopes that the Pei and Xie families can mend their relations.h.i.+p. In this Emperors opinion, the relations.h.i.+p between Lord Pei and Commandery Prince Xie should already have improved. Commandery Prince Xie, why not offer a toast to Imperial Uncle since he has already expressed his stance?

With the situation deviating further away from his plans, Xie Yun had no choice but to give face to the Emperor in front of anyone.

Hence, he smiled as he stood up, and the palace maid beside him immediately filled his cup. This Prince offers a toast to Prince Hao.

The palace maid behind Pei Qianhao also came forward to pour wine for him.

Afterwards, Pei Qianhao and Xie Yun downed their cups together.

Everyone thought that the matter had concluded, but contrary to expectations, Pei Qianhao continued to stand. Seven days after the Winter Solstice palace banquet is an auspicious date for marriage.

Pei Qianhao swept his gaze across everyone present, causing them to be taken aback. Pei Zhengs expression remained foul, while a glint flickered past Xie Yuns eyes.

Su Xi-er wont live past today.

Only Situ Lins eyes were glimmering with delight. Imperial Uncle, which young lady is so fortunate to become this Emperors Imperial Aunt?

When Pei Yaran saw Pei Qianhao parting his lips, she immediately cut in. Which young miss has a higher status than Commandery Princess Xie?