Koala Reads

"With the imperial decree in hand, Chen Tingfeng took leave from court at once. He rode out to the suburbs to fetch the betrothal envoy and returned in a triumphal procession: one hundred and twenty palanquins piled high with gifts, an ostentation that instantly clogged the main street. People lined the sidewalks and gaped; even the Second Princess’s wedding had never caused such a spectacle."

"At the county lord’s mansion the Grand Princess herself came forward to receive the Chen household. She lifted the curtain with a smile and teased, “No wonder the chancellor is getting married—he goes all out.”"

"Tradition said the groom should not see the bride during the formal betrothal ceremony. Chen Tingfeng had no business showing up at all, but he was a stubborn mule; he insisted on coming, and even the Chen couple couldn’t dissuade him. After all, he stood second only to the throne—what harm could a little breach of etiquette do?"