Chapter 10, Breaking the Cocoon

Guo Tian's face turned red: "What nonsense are you talking about? Breaking off the engagement with the Ma family was out of necessity."

Guo Tian is very eager to let go of past grievances, but he cannot forgive those who have harmed his daughter

She hurriedly wiped her sister's tears: "Sister, I am fine now. Look, I am doing very well now."

On the day of the wedding, Xiangxiang donned a magnificent bridal gown, adorned with a pearl phoenix crown, with strings of pearls cascading before her. A flowing banquet was held along the long street, with 5,000 soldiers entering the city to assist, and all the citizens shared in the festivities

Madam Yu's hand, holding the package, paused in mid-air, creating a moment of awkwardness

Moreover, after experiencing these events, how important is a woman's virtue? Besides this powerful man, who else can save her, grant her a lifetime of glory, and spare her from idle gossip?

This is indeed the work of Han Xu, but with Murong Li's temperament, how could he have thought of these things? He simply waved his hand and said, "What needs to be prepared, you all can decide!"

Guo Tian hurriedly approached, and everyone else came over to see the commotion. Upon seeing this, they were somewhat disappointed. The prince's betrothal gifts, by all accounts, should not be too meager, yet unexpectedly, he only sent a single box.

In an instant, a variety of voices emerged. Someone joked, "No wonder they first left the city with the army and then canceled the marriage with the Ma family; it turns out they have picked a high branch. Well done, Old Guo! Our little Lingzhi County has actually produced a golden phoenix!"

Yu Qing felt somewhat embarrassed and called out: "Mother..."

Xiangxiang understood that she was allowed to stay at home for two days, and immediately her expression showed some joy: "Thank you, Your Highness."

The mother and her two children slept together on one bed, talking throughout the night

Guo Tian and the others quickly got up again. In fact, during the days that Xiang Xiang has returned, her sister Guo Rongrong has not come back at all. It is not that she does not care, but rather that her younger sister's reputation is such... The elder sister, who is already married, cannot be influenced by her anymore

Guo Xiangxiang embraced her and smiled again: "Look at me, I finally made it back, and I even made you cry with laughter." She took out a few pieces of clothing from her bundle, "By the way, sister made you a few outfits. I started making them a few days ago when I heard you were coming back. Would you like to try them on?"

If it were not for Xiangxiang marrying into such a family, they would be afraid that Xiangxiang would hold a grudge, so how could they come to visit

Xiangxiang nodded as Guo Chen discussed matters of marrying well and raising children with her. Xiangxiang lowered her head to listen, while outside, the sound of firecrackers erupted, and the soldiers were loudly announcing that Prince Xun would take a concubine the day after tomorrow, hosting a flowing banquet on the main street, with provisions for all who come.

The news spread quickly, and before long, officials from the state and the local government came to visit, all bringing congratulatory gifts, which were directly given to Xiangxiang. Throughout Guo Tian's life, although he was open-minded, he was born a commoner. When had he ever been regarded with such importance by these state and local officials?

Xiangxiang is indeed aware that he must have directly taken a box of money obtained from the bandit suppression operation out

Each table is set with a standard of two taels of silver, and the most renowned chef in the city was engaged, starting preparations from the day before. The banquet was laid out for a full day, and a small sedan chair carried Xiangxiang out from the Guo family, proceeding to the Lingzhi County post station amidst the deafening sound of firecrackers

After the two left for a short while, the old lady became furious: "What is this? Do they really think that by flying up to the branches they have become a phoenix? What kind of noble ladies and distinguished daughters has the prince not seen? Marrying her is merely for amusement; does she really think of herself as something special?"

Guo Tian, upon hearing this, felt somewhat grateful and bowed, saying: "Thank you, Your Highness, for your great kindness"

Old Lady Yu, realizing she had misspoken, still managed to smile: "What I meant to say is that a person's marriage fate is something predetermined. Someone of your stature is inherently unable to enter the doors of a humble household. Our Yu family is not blessed with fortune."

It is often said that fortune and misfortune are interdependent, and indeed, this world is exceedingly unpredictable

The three of them just went ahead and did it. After all, it is his money, so there is no pain in spending it; they can be as extravagant as they wish.

The two individuals left, each with their own thoughts. Guo Tian and Guo Chen exchanged a glance, their expressions complex. There was worry, helplessness, and also joy. Who wouldn't wish for their daughter to have a good home?

Everyone erupted in cheers

The officials of the provincial government surrounded the box, murmuring in admiration, and then someone whispered, "This prince... why doesn't he take a liking to my daughter?"

No matter how one thinks about it, it is an unpleasant feeling

Xiangxiang sat in the sedan chair, her hands clasped together. The beaded curtain in front of her swayed with the rhythm of the chair, and as she reflected on everything that had happened before, it felt like a grand dream

In the afternoon, someone came to the door again. Guo Tian opened the door and was surprised to find it was Yu Qing. Behind him was Old Lady Yu, and both of them greeted Guo Tian with broad smiles: "Brother Guo, we heard that Xiang Xiang is getting married, so we brought some gifts over." Old Lady Yu was particularly eloquent, appearing very kind, "Xiang Xiang has grown up under my watch since she was little; she is no different from my own daughter. Her marriage is also a small token of goodwill from our Yu family."

Although no longer a newlywed, one still cannot avoid feeling nervous and shy

When Xiangxiang saw her elder sister, she naturally felt particularly affectionate. The two of them went to the inner room to talk, holding hands, and Guo Rongrong's tears began to fall: "Xiangxiang, do you blame your sister? Since you returned these days, your sister has not been able to come and see you. As the elder sister, I cannot provide timely help in your time of need, and I can only offer you my support in good times. If... if you were not to marry into the Wang family, I truly do not know when I would be able to see my sister again..."

The bright red wedding gown and the dazzling pearl crown were delivered to the Guo family, and even Guo Tian felt it was sufficient. This prince had shown considerable kindness and generosity towards his daughter.

Guo Chen let out a sigh of relief and found Xiang Xiang, who was with Guo Yang. Xiang Xiang spoke of the upcoming wedding, and she also showed some joy, repeatedly saying to her daughter: "This is good, this is good. At least there is a title. Although she will be a concubine, still... what more can one expect from such a family background."

Even if he stood on tiptoe, he would not be able to see a speck of dust from her.

Xiangxiang took the garment and saw that it was made of material far superior to that of her sister's clothing. She realized that her sister must have been saving good fabric for her, and tears welled up in her eyes

She was taken aback, thinking that something had happened. She hurried in with several large strides and saw many strangers gathered around Guo Tian. Everyone was very polite, and the atmosphere was quite harmonious.

Once the congratulatory guests had dispersed, the Guo family tofu workshop finally fell silent. Of course, no tofu was made at home today. Guo Tian and Guo Chen sat at the table with Xiangxiang, and after a long while, Guo Chen finally said: "In two days, you will be getting married, and from now on, you will belong to Prince Xun. Regardless of the past, you must fulfill your responsibilities as a wife."

However, when he is out, it is likely that everything is kept simple

Guo Tian snorted, and Xiang Xiang could only say: "Aunt Yu, we appreciate your kindness, please take the items back."

Xiangxiang entered and, upon seeing her father kneeling like this, was immediately filled with tears. Murong Li did not find it inappropriate for his father-in-law to kneel before him; he said: "Can we now discuss the matter of the betrothal?"

Upon learning that Guo Tian was still angry, Old Lady Yu could only smile and say to Xiang Xiang: "Xiang Xiang, regarding the past, it was my fault towards you. You are a good child, do not hate me. Qing Er actually did not want to do this, but we... Moreover, if it were not for Qing Er letting go in time, you would not have been able to secure such a good marriage proposal..."

The other party did not harbor any ill intentions, smilingly saying: "Indeed, at that time, Xiang Xiang was also sent back by this Prince Xun. Tsk tsk, it truly is a match made in heaven."

Xiangxiang's heart ached as if it were being twisted. When she was young, her parents had to take care of the tofu shop, and she and her younger brother were mostly looked after by their elder sister. An elder sister is like a mother; she understood her sister's heart better than anyone else.

Guo Tian is a sensible person; bowing his head slightly in front of Murong Li to secure a better life for his daughter is not too much to ask, and a few pleas are nothing significant.

Guo Tiansong let out a sigh of relief, knowing that he was indeed willing to give his daughter a legitimate status. He immediately said respectfully: "Your Highness, the rules for taking a concubine are not many. Although my family is not wealthy, we are certainly not in want of food and clothing. I only hope..."

The sky gradually brightened, and the morning light streamed through the window. Guo Xiangxiang and her sister were combing each other's hair when they heard a commotion outside. Zhou Zhuo and Han Xu had the soldiers bring over the phoenix crown and the colorful robes.

Guo Rongrong helped her change into new clothes and said with a smile: "Indeed, you look the best in this outfit. However, once you arrive at the Wangfu, you may not be able to wear these clothes anymore"

There was truly no way for Old Lady Yu; the person was not even allowed to enter. She had no choice but to turn around awkwardly. Yu Qing glanced at Xiangxiang, hesitating to speak. In the end, he still followed his mother away.

Guo Tian also felt a tremor in his heart, this prince is truly ... ...

Others would naturally think that he cherishes and values her, but does he truly love her

Guo Yang was still pestering Xiang Xiang with questions: "Sister, now that you are married to brother-in-law, does that mean you will be moving into the Xun Wang Mansion?"

At once, this forthright man found himself somewhat at a loss

Guo Tian hesitated for a moment; after all, Guo Yang was young and curious. He reached out to open the box. To his surprise, the box was not even locked, and the lid opened with a simple lift

Murong Li was also looking at him, and he bowed his head: "Your Highness..." He wanted to ask whether what you mentioned earlier about seeking to take Xiangxiang as a concubine still counted, but after thinking for a long time, he still found it difficult to speak up

Yu Qing lowered his head and glanced back once more. She should have been his wife, his woman, having grown up together as childhood sweethearts. ... Now, she had suddenly married into the royal family ... . .. How could it be that she was to become a concubine, and a concubine of the prince at that, not just any idle prince! That was the Xun Wang, who held significant military power in the Great Yan!

Guo Xiangxiang felt a surge of sadness: "I wear it! I can wear it!"

Now that I have heard that my younger sister is about to marry into the Xun Wangfu, her father-in-law and mother-in-law were initially skeptical. However, upon learning that the officials from the prefecture had come to offer their congratulations, they were immediately filled with joy and hurriedly instructed their son to bring his wife back home overnight.

Murong Li stood up, intending to leave, while Xiangxiang was unsure whether she should follow. He glanced at Xiangxiang and said, "I will come to pick you up another day."

Guo Tian dealt with several individuals, and once the officials had left, the magistrate of Zhi County came over. Guo Chen prepared fragrant clothes and went to the shop, only to find a crowd of people inside.

In the evening, Guo Chen and Xiang Xiang went to bed together. Just as they had fallen asleep, someone knocked on the door. It was Xiang Xiang's sister and brother-in-law returning, accompanied by their two-year-old son.

Guo Tian was infuriated upon hearing this: "So, does Xiang Xiang still have to thank you all?"

Guo Chen nodded, allowing Guo Rongrong to help Xiangxiang try on clothes. Looking at her two daughters and one son, she exchanged glances with Guo Tian, feeling somewhat comforted in her old age.

Xiangxiang lowered her head, realizing that what Han Xu said was indeed true. He held everything she had never even dared to imagine in his hands. As long as he showed a little mercy, he could solve all the problems for her and her parents

From this moment on, he became her husband. She lowered her head, thinking of that person's face, feeling both fear and gratitude. Faintly, there was also a hint of longing

Guo Tian still wanted to speak, and Xiang Xiang whispered: "There is no established ritual for taking a concubine; the prince can casually send a proposal and then come to pick her up in a small sedan chair."

Guo Yang is currently kneeling in servitude, when Guo Tian comes over to drive him away. Without saying a word, he kneels before Murong Li. Since the matter has already been settled, he is determined to take Xiang Xiang away, and of course, it is better to be a concubine than to be a mere bed servant.

King Xun personally visited the Guo Family Tofu Workshop, and Guo Tian has become quite famous. All the diners in the shop were secretly discussing this matter, their gazes fixated on Xiangxiang like flies drawn to sugar.

She wants to come back, but her mother-in-law and father-in-law will certainly not allow it. The only option is for her husband to bring some things over to visit.

Xiangxiang felt a sense of peace as she was held by her mother. Guo Tian, surrounded by many, finally relaxed the furrowed brow that had been tightly knit for days due to concerns for his daughter. A smile appeared on his mother's face, and the dark clouds that had loomed over the Guo family suddenly dispersed, revealing brilliant sunshine.

In a flurry of activity, the shopkeeper welcomed these officials into the establishment for tea, when Han Xu and Zhou Zhuo arrived carrying a wooden box with two soldiers.

Guo Rongrong nodded repeatedly: "My sister is fortunate. In fact, upon hearing that you have found such a place to settle, I feel that it doesn't matter whether I come back or not. At least I can rest assured."

The conversation was not finished when Murong Li grew impatient: "This king takes a concubine; what does it have to do with your family's wealth?"

The entire population of Lingzhi County is aware that Guo Tian's daughter from the Guo family tofu shop has married the Xun Wang, which has become a source of envy for everyone.

Old Lady Yu remained resentful: "What are you calling out for? Like a piece of wood, not even saying a few words. Didn't you see how those officials flatter their family? If she really whispered a few words in the prince's ear, would you still want to keep your head?"

If this were to be converted into silver, there would certainly be at least thirty to fifty thousand taels

Guo Tian's expression darkened upon seeing them. Hearing this, he did not offer a pleasant demeanor: "Thank you, but it is unnecessary. My Xiang Xiang is getting married, and all the necessary items will be prepared by the prince. You may take it back."

The two sisters embraced each other, laughing and shedding tears.

He sighed and said to Guo Chen: "Teach your daughter the principles of virtue and propriety well, so that when she enters the Wang residence, she will be worthy of the prince's intentions today"

Then everyone saw a whole box inside, filled with genuine gold, silver, and jewels. Pearls, emeralds, fine jade, red agate, and a variety of others dazzled the eyes.

The child, unaware of the need to speak softly, asked with great excitement. As soon as the words were spoken, the surrounding diners erupted in a loud commotion. A familiar neighbor shouted, "Old Guo, is Lord Xun going to marry your daughter Xiangxiang?"

Everyone fell silent. Han Xu and Zhou Zhuo had not made any formal engagement either; what did these two martial men understand? They simply said: "Mr. Guo, this is the betrothal gift from the prince to Miss Xiangxiang"

In a moment, various congratulations.

Such a box of jewelry, I fear that the Guo family would not be able to earn this amount in their entire lifetime without eating or drinking. Yet he can casually point and bring it forth, taking a concubine.

After speaking, she also blushed. Murong Li nodded: "This king has been ordered to come here to eliminate the bandits, and the soldiers are all present, so I cannot stay for long. Tomorrow, this king will send someone to propose marriage, and the day after tomorrow, I will welcome you through the door"