In the thirteenth year of Kaihuang, on the twenty-sixth day of the eighth month, Wang Yan was married.
Gongs and drums resounded, while firecrackers crackled in celebration.
The procession carrying the dowry from the imperial palace and the procession bringing the betrothal gifts from the Prince of Jin's Residence clogged the entire street outside Wang Yan's home. Reading through the inventory alone took more than an hour.
Since Yang Guang had spoken of betrothal gifts, he had naturally given plenty. It could practically be said that he was handing Wang Yan money outright. Of course, both the betrothal gifts and the dowry belonged to Qionghua, and Wang Yan would have to discuss it with her if he wanted to use them.
After all that fuss, Qionghua, dressed in her bridal robes and seated in a carriage, finally entered the Marquis's Residence. Once the ceremonies were complete, she went to wait in the main chamber.
Wang Yan had few friends in the capital, but he was marrying the deeply favored Qionghua. Even Yang Jian and Dugu Qieluo made appearances, so his residence was packed with guests.
The officials in the capital—primarily the high-ranking ones—and the great clans had all sent gifts. Even the hostile Yuwen Clan had not slighted the occasion, sending quite a few things as well. Many lesser officials also came bearing gifts.
There were also members of the imperial family, all of whom had been quite generous with their presents. No one had neglected the occasion.
Wang Yan laid out a three-day open feast, where anyone who came could eat and drink. Still, there were rules: high officials on the first day, lesser officials on the second, and everyone else on the third.
The household staff could naturally handle all of that, so it had little to do