"Shark Slayer" was a divine weapon, able to slice through iron like mud. Such a treasured sword was beyond the reach of ten thousand gold; even with Hong Xuejiao's status, obtaining one would be difficult.
"Your Highness has acknowledged this marquis as kin, leaving this marquis overwhelmed with unearned gratitude. Today, Your Highness's phoenix carriage has come home to visit her family, yet this marquis could only sprinkle clear water upon the ground to welcome you. If there is any breach in the proper rites, may Your Highness punish this marquis severely."
Hong Xuejiao usually liked to wear neat, close-fitting martial attire. She was clean and crisp in appearance, accomplished in riding and archery, valiant and dashing, highly skilled in martial arts—this was acknowledged throughout the entire marquis's mansion. Yet with Consort Yuan arriving today, she had risen early to dress herself in women's clothes.
"Marquis Wuwen has been most thorough in his courtesies this time. Though they are somewhat too extravagant. From now on, we are one family, so there is no need for such formality. Every year during the festivals, so long as His Majesty and the Empress Dowager permit it, I shall return to visit my family and ease the pain of missing my homeland."
Consort Yuan's voice came from within the sedan chair, clear and ethereal, round and lustrous as pearls.
After Consort Yuan's carriage moved on, the people kneeling throughout the marquis's mansion rose to their feet. They crowded around behind the carriage, while a group of old maidservants and young maids trailed at the rear, chattering excitedly among themselves.
Soon, the party arrived at the main residence. Entering the great garden within, they saw a large domed structure built of snow pine in the middle of the garden pond, like a fortress, brimming with