After Zhou You sat down, Lian Feihong raised his wine cup. "Come, a toast to our great contributor."
The atmosphere around them was somewhat strange. Not only was there not the slightest hint of celebration, but it was instead rather solemn.
Among the accompanying guests at the banquet, all the Lian family's hidden grandmasters had come, including the Lian Family Ancestor of the Heavenly Sect.
Their gazes were fixed on Zhou You, as though the fine wine and delicacies before them were mere air, beneath their notice.
The Sealed Lord took the lead in raising a toast, and the many marquises and high ministers followed suit. Amid a succession of clinking sounds, everyone lifted their cups in a distant salute.
"Wait!"
Zhou You suddenly rose to his feet and said to Lian Feihong, "Today marks one year since the Sealed Lord ascended the throne. Allow me to seize this opportunity and offer my congratulations with wine!"
"Sealed Lord, peace across the realm is within sight. Your efforts have not been in vain!"
Lian Feihong's heart trembled. He was not made of stone, and Zhou You's words softened his heart on the spot.
But before he could react, the omnipresent gazes around him reminded him that the arrow was already on the string and had to be loosed. There was no room for retreat.
Zhou You toasted him with one cup, then poured himself a second. This time, he toasted the Lian Family Ancestor.
"Elder, our two families formed an alliance and weathered hardships together. I have also benefited from your care. This cup is for you!"
The Lian Family Ancestor remained expressionless and drained his cup in one swallow. He was far more seasoned than Lian Feihong, his state of mind as still as an ancient well.
Then Zhou You