The Xu Family deliberately gave way, following slowly three miles behind the royal fleet. Not long after they passed Jadeheart Mountain, another fleet formed ranks to welcome them and escort both fleets to Azure Dragon Bay.
As they approached Azure Dragon Bay, the previously fine weather suddenly turned overcast. Wind and rain arrived unbidden, and dense spring rain fell across the lake, blurring the outlines of heaven and earth.
Hu Xiaotian stood on the wharf at Azure Dragon Bay, quietly watching the approaching fleets. His tranquil heart rose and fell like the waves of Cloud Marsh. At the thought of seeing Qiqi soon, he actually found himself growing restless. He had to admit that the ruthless little wench still held a place in his heart.
Wu Jingshan, the Minister of Rites, stood beside Hu Xiaotian. He had come specifically to welcome Princess Yongyang. Craning his neck in anticipation, he waved excitedly as soon as the fleet came into view. "Play the music! Play the music!"
Hu Xiaotian could not help smiling. At Wu Jingshan's insistence, he had hastily assembled this welcoming band. Most of the musicians stood out in the open, however, and now that it was raining, the Wind and Rain Pavilion could not accommodate them all. They could only endure the rain. As the welcoming music began, the scene immediately grew lively.
Hu Xiaotian could not help looking forward to his wedding the day after tomorrow. Who knew how many people would have their eyes popping out then?
The great ship moored at the wharf, and Murong Zhan emerged first, leading the Imperial Guards. His complexion looked even more deathly pale beneath the gloomy sky, his gray-white eyes dull and lightless. Seeing him reminded Hu Xiaotian of Murong Feiyan. He wondered whether she had accompanied Long Xuanjiao, the