On April 12, 10009 of the Yulan Calendar, Chiyan City, the Imperial Capital, welcomed its grandest celebration in recent years.
Before dawn had even broken, Fushi Road was already packed solid with carriages. Hooves struck the bluestone pavement with crisp, rapid clops, while coachmen's shouts rose and fell amid the creaking of wheels grinding over stone seams. From above, the entire Fushi Road resembled a flowing ribbon, with banners and crests of every color appearing and disappearing in the morning light—noble families from across the empire had arrived with their households, all to attend this engagement ceremony.
The Earl's Mansion was festooned with lights and decorations. Red silk stretched from the gates all the way to the main hall. Two rows of guards stood straight as pines in brand-new uniforms, the silver badges on their chests polished to a gleaming shine that reflected a cold light in the dawn. The reception platform at the entrance was filled with flowers, mainly red roses interspersed with white lilies. Their fragrance permeated the morning air, mingling with the scent of wine drifting over from afar. The mansion's servants had begun bustling about before sunrise. Some wiped down tables and chairs, some checked the wine, while others repeatedly confirmed the guest list. The kitchens were even busier, the chefs sweating profusely as the aroma of roasting meat wafted out through the chimneys and spread for several streets.
The festive atmosphere was almost overwhelming.
Akes stood before a second-floor window, watching the bustling crowd below with a faint smile on his lips.
"So many people. They must have invited half the nobility of the Imperial Capital," he said, turning toward Linley, who was adjusting his attire.
Linley wore a dark blue-green robe today, made from the finest cloud brocade with faint patterns flowing across its