Seeing Chen Mu's expression turn solemn, Li Huanzhen suddenly smiled.
"Rest easy, Brother Chen. It's not really a problem."
"There are simply a great many twists and turns involved. We can discuss them over wine. Let's not miss the auspicious hour."
He put aside his earlier tension and told Chen Mu to prepare to fetch his bride first. They could discuss this later.
Seeing his change in tone, Chen Mu felt somewhat reassured. He did not press for answers, instead leading the Daoist into the Martial Arts Hall to rest.
Soon, word that Chen Mu was going to fetch his bride spread throughout the Martial Arts Hall.
Liu Meng and the others had bought Chen Mu a new residence in the east of the city, spending a considerable sum.
They had chosen an excellent location, deep in the eastern alley of Heaven-Bearing Street, right beside the street behind the government offices-a quiet haven amid the bustle.
The residence was not large, with only two successive courtyards and a side hall adjoining the front courtyard.
An old osmanthus tree grew in the rear courtyard. Though it bore no flowers in winter, its gnarled, intertwining branches gave it a certain grandeur.
Chen Mu had only visited briefly before preparing for the wedding feast.
His own people handled all the wedding arrangements. It was a modest affair, with invitations going only to his fellow disciples and a few former neighbors from Rubble Ward.
Still, Chen Mu had specifically sent someone to hire a chef from the Golden Jade Pavilion, so the guests would not be poorly treated.
By dusk, both the Martial Arts Hall and the new residence were bustling, and the streets were hung with lanterns and festive decorations.
People from the government offices came as well. Wu Yue, now formally appointed