Only then did Xue Qinghe notice Ning Rongrong holding Dai Mubai's arm, looking intimately close to him.
His pupils contracted slightly, and he turned to Ning Fengzhi, disbelief coloring his voice. "Teacher, this is..."
Ning Fengzhi's expression remained unchanged, his tone calm. "Mubai and Rongrong share a mutual affection, and I've already agreed to let them be together. So Mubai is now my son-in-law."
Xue Qinghe nearly lost his composure. Ten thousand alpacas stampeded through his mind, and the smile on his lips almost collapsed.
But he had undergone rigorous training, after all, and maintained his impeccable manners. Forcing a smile against his true feelings, he said, "Congratulations, Teacher. The Third Prince is exceptionally gifted and makes a fine son-in-law."
Naturally, Ning Fengzhi had no fear of the Heaven Dou Imperial Family turning against him.
The Heaven Dou Imperial Family was weak and could not do without the Seven Treasure Glazed Tile Sect's support. Xue Qinghe's secure position as crown prince likewise depended on the sect's staunch backing.
No matter how displeased the Heaven Dou Imperial Family might be with this marriage, Xue Qinghe had no right to object.
"You're quite right, Qinghe." Ning Fengzhi nodded with a smile. "Mubai has indeed pleased me greatly. I also hope that the Star Luo Empire and Heaven Dou can turn spears and shields into jade and silk, working together for mutual benefit."
Xue Qinghe bowed. "Thank you for your guidance, Teacher."
Dai Mubai smiled and picked up the conversation. "Father-in-law is absolutely right. Crown Prince Xue and I once joined forces to wipe out the Wolf Bandits at Broken Cliff Mountain, so we could be considered comrades-in-arms. Speaking of which, Crown Prince Xue's skill in commanding troops was truly exceptional. I still remember it vividly."
He extended a hand, his smile sincere.