Baili Chen glanced at him indifferently and said, "Send someone to keep an eye on the Huang residence and see who they usually associate with."
Although Leng Sha had doubts, he immediately agreed and turned to carry out the order. Baili Chen narrowed his eyes, a cold smile playing on his lips. He would let Huang Yu go? That was a pipe dream. How dare he have such improper thoughts about his wife? He was practically courting death! Sending Leng Sha there that day was already a lesson for him; he hadn't expected this man to become so audacious. Leng Sha wasn't wrong. If it were the old Baili Chen, he would have killed Huang Yu without considering the consequences. Want to marry Ouyang Yue? Unless the Huang family sent a corpse to marry her.
However, if Baili Chen were to do this now, the most suspicious person would be Ouyang Yue. After all, Ouyang Yue's status is different now. The best way for her not to marry Huang Yu is for Huang Yu to die, which would only bring trouble to Ouyang Yue. Baili Chen used to do things without restraint, but now he has to consider whether it will cause trouble for Ouyang Yue. Therefore, it is not advisable to act rashly now. However, whether Huang Yu dares to lay a hand on his wife depends on whether he has the ability. No one can take Baili Chen's woman away!
In the Miao Jiang Inn, in the first VIP room, the Miao Jiang Holy King was sitting at his desk writing something. A woman in purple robes in the room had her head bowed and had been waiting quietly. After a while, the Miao Jiang Holy King put down his pen, looked at the woman at the desk, and said, "Not bad, you were able to understand what I meant. It seems that among these people, you are the most attentive."
The woman in purple immediately raised her head slightly and said, "Zi San wouldn't dare."
"Good, well done. You may leave." The Miao King waved his hand dismissively. Zi San wanted to say something, but ultimately suppressed her doubts. She remembered the Miao King's words: if Ouyang Yue won the championship, they were not allowed to act rashly. In the situation at the Royal Hunting Grounds, under Mu Cuiwei's accusations, she knew that was the last resort. Therefore, she deliberately lied to extricate Ouyang Yue, precisely because of the Miao King's order. But she didn't understand her master's intentions. When they participated in the competition, her master told them to fight with all their might to win the championship. In fact, if they had directly sided with Mu Cuiwei, Ouyang Yue would indeed have been in danger. What was her master's purpose?
The Miao King sat in the room and suddenly laughed: "That thing has been hidden for too long, it's time for me to take it back." He then stroked his chin slightly. "Ouyang Yue? I didn't expect you to have some skills. But if you were just an ordinary woman, it wouldn't be interesting."
Upon receiving Ouyang Zhide's order, Ning immediately went to the Huang residence. Huang Qi, He Shi, and Huang Yu were all there. After exchanging a few pleasantries, Ning got straight to the point: "Lord Huang, Madam Huang, you know that since ancient times, marriages have always been arranged by parents and matchmakers. However, I have been somewhat negligent in handling this matter. I only mentioned it casually to my husband before, without going into details. Who knew that my husband would be so furious after hearing the rumors in the capital? It seems that the marriage between the Huang family and the General's family can only be called off."
"Gone! Hmph, what a fine 'gone'! General's wife, you were the one who practically begged me to arrange this marriage. We were hesitant at first, but you persuaded us in the end. Now the betrothal gifts have been exchanged, and many people in the capital know about the upcoming wedding between our two families. And now you're just going to call off the engagement? Is this a slap in the face of our family? I know your General's family holds a higher official position, but marriage isn't something that can be decided by rank and power. There has to be a reason. General's wife, do you think this is justifiable?" Huang Qi said immediately, his face turning cold. In fact, he was also very dissatisfied with the marriage between Huang Yu and Ouyang Yue in the first place, but in the end, he felt that Ouyang Yue had the support of the General's family and the Ning family, so it wasn't too bad for Huang Yu, and that's why he agreed. Now that Ouyang Yue has some influence, they feel like they've gotten a great deal. How could they just call off the engagement like that? Absolutely not.
Ning smiled inwardly. She knew the Huang family wouldn't agree, but said helplessly, "However, my husband disagrees. That girl Yue'er... sigh. I know this matter has definitely caused you, Lord Huang, to suffer. The General's Mansion will compensate you handsomely."
"We don't care about monetary compensation. Go back and tell Ouyang Yue that I, Huang Yu, am determined to marry her. If she disagrees, I'd rather take her to court by imperial decree. Even if I, Huang Yu, can't marry her, I'll make sure she's utterly disgraced and becomes a forgotten woman. She has no right to cancel the marriage; if anyone should cancel, it's me, Huang Yu, who will decide when. She has no right to do so." Huang Yu roared angrily. He couldn't believe that Ouyang Yue was such a shameless woman who climbed the social ladder. Just because she won first place in a beauty pageant, she dared to look down on him. Although Huang Yu wasn't royalty, he was still a man of considerable standing. How could he ever face anyone again if he made a woman cancel her engagement?
That damned bitch, he absolutely has to marry her, torture her thoroughly, and then divorce her, making her a laughingstock to the world, otherwise he won't be able to vent his anger!
Ning's expression changed slightly, but her eyes lit up. She said with some annoyance, "Young Master Huang, please watch your words. What do you mean by 'abandoned wife'? My Yue'er's status is different now. If you say such things, aren't you ruining her reputation? Your Huang family spread the news of the marriage without my consent. Isn't that being too hasty? If you had listened to me and waited until the wedding was almost over, the matter would have been settled by then, and there would have been no room for change. This is also your fault. I have said all I have to say. Please watch your words."
Ning's words only fueled Huang Qi and He's anger. He said angrily, "Ning Caiyue, how dare you turn your back on us! Let me tell you, we have the betrothal letter and the marriage certificate. We can go anywhere and we'll be in the right. If you're going to act like this, we don't believe you'll dare to be so stubborn even if we take you to court. I'm afraid you can't afford to lose face."
Ning's expression changed, but she sneered, "Fine, go ahead and sue. Yue'er is already famous and enjoys excellent prestige among the people. You'll likely suffer more losses than gains. Hmph, if you're so capable, go and ask the Emperor to issue an imperial decree to grant us this marriage. It's just a marriage contract signed privately between the two families. It's not difficult for my General's Mansion to back out. Think it over carefully. Farewell." After saying that, Ning hurriedly left, but a sinister smile remained on her face as she turned away.
He Shi immediately cursed angrily: "There is not a single good person in the General's Mansion. When Ning Caiyue asked us to arrange this marriage, she was so humble and subservient. Now that Ouyang Yue has only won first place in a beauty pageant, she is actually showing off to us. Bah! This marriage absolutely cannot be canceled, otherwise people will laugh at us."
"Yes, I must marry Ouyang Yue, I will torture her to death!" Huang Yu used to get whatever she wanted, when had she ever felt so humiliated? She just couldn't swallow this insult.
Huang Qi's expression also darkened. Although he came from a humble background, he wasn't stupid; he had risen to the rank of fourth-grade military equipment supervisor over the years. He knew the General's Mansion's intentions—to help Ouyang Yue climb the social ladder. However, Ouyang Yue's current situation was also highly beneficial to the Huang family, so Huang Qi would absolutely not give up on this marriage. The marriage certificate they held was their most powerful weapon; it would be a waste not to use it. Moreover, Ning Shi's words before leaving had suddenly awakened him.
"Should we ask the Emperor to bestow a marriage upon us?" Huang Qi sneered. This was the perfect opportunity.
The beauty pageant concluded successfully, and the people from the four kingdoms who had gathered in the Great Zhou Dynasty departed one after another. However, the envoys from each country wanted to stay a few more days so that the Great Zhou Dynasty could host a banquet to commemorate them—essentially a farewell feast. This farewell feast took place five days after the beauty pageant ended. Some of the common people from the four kingdoms who had come to join the fun had already left, leaving behind only the envoys and some prominent families from each country. Therefore, the number of people was quite large, and the largest palace in the imperial palace was naturally used to host the banquet.
The capital was under complete martial law that day, and no unauthorized persons were allowed to enter the Imperial City. The Imperial City was bustling with carriages, which moved about in a very orderly fashion. Today, the General's Mansion mobilized its entire staff, including the frail Old Madam Ning. Apart from Concubine Hua and Concubine Liu, who could not enter due to their status, Madam Ning, Ouyang Rou, and Ouyang Yue were all dressed in their finest attire.
"Miss Ouyang, you've arrived! I've been waiting for you for quite a while." As soon as she got out of the car, a young lady from the Biefu family came over with a smile to greet her. In the past, these people would never have approached Ouyang Yue unless they wanted to mock her. Ouyang Yue smiled slightly and gave a slight bow: "So it's Miss Liu. It's been a long time. You look even more beautiful today."
"Oh dear, Miss Ouyang, you really know how to talk. No matter how pretty I am, I'm not as beautiful as you. You're the most beautiful woman in Langya Continent now. Comparing myself to you would be an insult. Don't tease me." Aunt Liu immediately chuckled. Ouyang Yue's words seemed somewhat sarcastic, but she spoke with utmost sincerity, and Miss Liu seemed to enjoy it, which made her very happy.
"Oh, it's Miss Ouyang..." Before long, Ouyang Yue was surrounded by several young ladies who had come later, truly being the center of attention.
Ouyang Rou, who had originally been standing beside Ouyang Yue, had long since been pushed out of the crowd. Now, her face contorted with jealousy, she thought, "She's just won a beauty pageant, what's so great about that? She'll still have to marry Huang Yu, and in the future, she'll be tormented by He Shi and Huang Yu and her son. Does she really think she can rise to the top like this? She's dreaming! You bitch, you damned bitch, I'll never let you get away with this!"
Ning looked at Ouyang Yue coldly, a sneer on her face. Ouyang Yue, you're only basking in the limelight now. You'll be crying soon.
After chatting for a while, the group went to the back garden to wait. Not long after, a palace maid announced that the banquet was about to begin. The group immediately headed to the main hall without delay, as all the envoys from the five countries were present today, and they could not afford to make any mistakes or lose face.
At this moment, Ouyang Yue approached Ning Shi and said, "Mother, you have been at the Huang residence for five days now. Why haven't we received any news from them yet? Are they still not giving up? Mother, Father is very angry this time. If he gets really angry, I won't be able to help you."
Ning was secretly annoyed, but smiled and said, "The conversation went well that day. Lord Huang said he would give me news in ten days. Just wait a little longer. Don't push him too hard, or he'll get desperate and do something stupid, which won't be good for anyone."
Ouyang Yue narrowed her eyes. Ning Shi must have done something else, judging by her confident demeanor. A thought suddenly flashed through her mind, and Ouyang Yue's eyes turned cold.
The participants in the banquet took their seats according to their rank and other rankings. Soon after, a eunuch announced in a high-pitched voice, "The Emperor, the Empress Dowager, and the Empress have arrived!"
The people of the Great Zhou Dynasty, along with those from the other four kingdoms, except for the rulers of the two kingdoms and the eldest prince of the Great Zhou, all knelt and greeted him, saying, "Rise."
Everyone took their seats, and Emperor Mingxian smiled gently and said, "Today is a rare day. There are many banquets like this in the five kingdoms where people can sit and enjoy themselves together. Please don't be shy, everyone, and enjoy yourselves to the fullest."
"What Emperor Mingxian said is true..." the various states echoed, but what they really thought was unknown.
The banquet officially began. This so-called royal banquet was nothing more than singing and dancing, nothing special. It was far inferior to the beauty pageant that had just ended. Thinking of this, everyone couldn't help but look at Ouyang Yue. Today, Ouyang Yue was wearing a moon-white long dress with beautiful floral embroidery on the four sides. A silver belt with red and white stones around her waist accentuated her slender waist. Her figure was delicate, and her makeup was light yet fresh and bright. Her eyes were bright and gentle like stars. She was truly a beauty like a painting.
"Father, I have always admired Miss Ouyang Yue of the General's Mansion and wish to request Your Majesty to bestow upon her the title of wife." Suddenly, a loud voice resounded throughout the hall. Everyone was startled and looked up. The person who stood up to propose marriage was none other than the Ninth Prince, Baili Mao. When had the Ninth Prince had any contact with Ouyang Yue?
Baili Chen's indifferent face immediately darkened. Baili Mao's marriage proposal had completely surprised most people. However, a person with a gentle smile on his face appeared with a smug grin. It was none other than the Fifth Prince, Lili Jian! Although Ouyang Yue was now the most beautiful woman in the world and had a glamorous reputation, she was still a bit short of being his queen. Her queen needed to be more qualified. But now, he had to win Ouyang Yue over. Baili Mao was good at reading his expressions, and this time he was quite clever.
The hall fell silent. Emperor Mingxian was slightly taken aback, but quickly regained his composure. His gaze swept over Baili Mao, who was bowing and clasping his hands in greeting. However, a thought flashed through his mind, and his gaze then fell upon Ouyang Yue. Upon seeing her, he suddenly remembered who Ouyang Yue resembled. The Empress Dowager and Empress beside her were also suddenly taken aback.
Leng Yuyan was once the most beautiful woman in the world. Now, although Ouyang Yue's features haven't fully developed, upon closer inspection, she bears a striking resemblance to Leng Yuyan. What a coincidence!
The Empress's heart skipped a beat. She suddenly realized that Baili Mao absolutely could not marry Ouyang Yue, at least not before she could find out the truth behind her doubts. However, at this moment, Emperor Mingxian began to say, "Oh, Xiao Jiu, you are so fond of Ouyang Yue?"
Baili Mao immediately replied respectfully, "Yes, Father Emperor, I have long been in love with Miss Ouyang. I beg you to grant my wish."
Suddenly, someone jumped up from the seats: "Your Majesty, Ouyang Yue is already engaged and cannot marry another." Everyone was stunned, then saw Huang Yu's face flushed red as she spoke urgently. Everyone was shocked. How did Ouyang Yue get involved with two men? And they had indeed heard that Huang Yu was already engaged to her. Then her relationship with the Ninth Prince was quite complicated. If things went wrong, she could be accused of toying with the royal family's feelings, and a good thing could turn into a bad thing.
Baili Chen held a wine glass in his hand, but his face was already filled with a strong murderous aura!
Chapter 148, Identity Revealed! (Big Update, Please Vote!)
"You are engaged to Ouyang Yue, so who are you?" Emperor Mingxian asked, narrowing his eyes as he looked at Huang Yu, who was standing up in a panic.
Huang Yu was extremely nervous. The Ninth Prince, Baili Mao, was about to propose to Ouyang Yue in the main hall when he stood up. Wasn't this tantamount to stealing the Ninth Prince's woman? He was now somewhat apprehensive. He had stood up impulsively, and regretted it the moment the words left his mouth. But after speaking, he felt resentful. Ouyang Yue was his fiancée; he had the marriage certificate in his hand, and even the Heavenly King himself couldn't argue against it.
Despite his nervousness, Huang Yu still respectfully bowed to Emperor Mingxian: "I am Huang Yu, the only son of Huang Qi of the Military Equipment Bureau. Greetings, Your Majesty."
Emperor Mingxian, dressed in a bright yellow dragon robe, sat upright on the dragon throne. His face was dignified, but at this moment, no emotion could be discerned: "Oh, so you are Huang Qi's son. You are quite handsome, a refined gentleman."
Huang Qi sat beside Huang Yu. He hadn't had time to stop Huang Yu earlier, and his expression had already changed. He couldn't discern Emperor Mingxian's mood now, and Huang Qi's heart trembled. He had climbed from a lowly soldier to this position through hard work, as well as his skill and keen observation. Although he was promoted by Emperor Mingxian himself and was considered one of his men, even so, daring to offend the imperial majesty was a crime he couldn't escape with ten lives. After all, if Emperor Mingxian could promote one Huang Qi, he could promote ten or eight more. Huang Yu's act of publicly competing with the Ninth Prince for a woman was truly overestimating his own abilities.
"Your Majesty, my son is young and ignorant, and he spoke carelessly," Huang Qi explained, his face pale.
"Young and ignorant? How dare he offend his father? Lord Huang, your son is at least twenty years old, isn't he? Is he still not sensible enough?" Baili Mao was also holding back his anger. Although his background was not as good as the other princes, he was still the biological son of Emperor Mingxian, a hundred times more noble than Huang Qi and his son. Even if Huang Yuzhen and Ouyang Yue were engaged, a smart family would quietly step back and cancel the engagement. Huang Yuzhen dared to compete with him for a woman, clearly not taking him seriously. How could Baili Mao let him off the hook?
Huang Yu's face stiffened. Earlier, Ning Shi had gone to the Huang residence and said so much. Afterwards, Huang Qi and Huang Yu discussed it, deciding to announce Huang Yu's marriage to Ouyang Yue at the banquet. With him holding her hand and the marriage certificate, anyone who doubted them would have evidence, leaving Ouyang Yue with no way to deny it. Alternatively, if Emperor Mingxian were to suddenly become interested and bestow the marriage on the spot, that would be even better, leaving Ouyang Yue with no right to resist or refuse.
Everything was going smoothly until, before they could even act, Baili Mao suddenly stood up and demanded that Emperor Mingxian bestow a marriage upon them, completely disrupting their plans. Huang Yu was anxious, and Huang Qi hadn't expected Huang Yu to be so bold as to speak out in the main hall. In fact, Huang Qi had already considered backing out when Baili Mao proposed, but Huang Yu's words had already slipped out. Huang Qi forced a smile and said, "Your Majesty's majesty is supreme, and my son, seeing it for the first time, was inevitably too nervous. That's why I spoke carelessly and offended Your Majesty. Please forgive me."
Baili Mao had no intention of letting them off the hook: "The envoys of the five kingdoms are all here in this hall. Lord Huang, do you think it's possible to let bygones be bygones with just a word of offense?" Baili Mao had been humiliated in front of so many people. If he didn't get his revenge, he would also lose face in front of so many people, and it would be difficult to get it back later.
Cold sweat dripped from Huang Qi's forehead. Looking at Baili Mao's persistent and obstinate behavior, he was truly troubled. At the same time, he was also furious at Huang Yu's impulsiveness. "Your Majesty... Your Majesty..." he stammered for a long time, unsure how to respond. Publicly contradicting a prince was indeed a difficult situation. If this prince were the usually mild-mannered Fifth Prince, Baili Jian, it would be easier to handle. But it was Baili Mao, who was habitually impulsive and reckless. Moreover, Emperor Mingxian hadn't spoken after all this, clearly indicating he didn't want to get involved. He was probably also somewhat resentful of Huang Yu's previous disobedience. Huang Qi was truly anxious.
Seeing this, Emperor Mingxian stroked his beard and laughed: "Haha, it's normal for young people to act impulsively. Otherwise, if everyone were like an old man like us, it would be difficult to act impulsively."
When Emperor Mingxian smiled, the officials of the Great Zhou Dynasty immediately knelt down and said, "Your Majesty is young and mighty, how can you be compared to an impulsive young man?" Baili Mao had a sullen face. His father's way of saving him from this predicament was also a slap in the face. Was he not as good as the son of a fourth-rank official?
Emperor Mingxian smiled and said, "I didn't expect that Xiao Jiu had already fallen deeply in love with Miss Ouyang. However, he was a little too slow to act. Young Master Huang is already engaged to Miss Ouyang."
Huang Yu's face showed a hint of smugness. It seemed that Emperor Mingxian was still quite democratic and righteous, actually standing on his side. Baili Mao's expression became even more unpleasant, but then Emperor Mingxian suddenly changed the subject and looked at Ouyang Yue: "Miss Ouyang, you have indeed won the Langya Continent Beauty Pageant this time, which is truly outstanding. When I was young, I listened to many ballads. Young people like to do some impulsive but admirable things. Marriages have always been arranged by parents and matchmakers. I wonder what Miss Ouyang thinks about the two gentlemen in the palace who are in love with you?"
Baili Chen suppressed his anger, his eyes coldly fixed on Emperor Mingxian. Previously, Baili Mao had proposed marriage in court, and Huang Yu had also brought up the engagement. Even though Baili Chen intended to win Ouyang Yue's heart, he couldn't do it in this setting. Otherwise, with so many men involved, even if Ouyang Yue was innocent, she would be labeled as promiscuous and wanton. Therefore, Baili Chen had been patiently enduring this. However, Emperor Mingxian's words presented Ouyang Yue with a difficult problem.
Originally, Huang Yu held the marriage certificate, making him Ouyang Yue's rightful fiancé. The official documents were stamped, and unless the two families voluntarily dissolved the marriage, it was legally binding. Baili Mao had proposed in court, but Huang Yu was not qualified. Unfortunately, Huang Yu stepped forward, clearly intending to compete with the prince. This was a public humiliation of Baili Mao, Emperor Mingxian, and even the Great Zhou royal family. Emperor Mingxian couldn't do it openly, but he had to regain face.
Huang Yu holds the marriage certificate, and Baili Mao is his son, so the blame naturally falls on Ouyang Yue. Emperor Mingxian is trying to redeem Baili Mao. If Ouyang Yue chooses Huang Yu, it's a choice forced upon her by the marriage agreement; it's her choice as the woman. Even if Baili Mao proposes, he can't refuse, and the matter will naturally be resolved. If Ouyang Yue chooses Baili Mao, it's seen as climbing the social ladder by marrying into the royal family. Although there will be those who criticize her, Baili Mao and Huang Yu are worlds apart. Ninety-nine percent of people would choose the former in this situation. In that case, Ouyang Yue could publicly annul the engagement, which is different from Baili Mao forcibly marrying her in court.
However, there is a problem: Ouyang Yue will bear the blame and ridicule of the world. Moreover, based on Baili Chen's understanding of Emperor Mingxian, no matter who Ouyang Yue chooses at this time, she will probably marry Baili Mao in the end. However, it is impossible to give Ouyang Yue the title of principal wife, because she has made Baili Mao and Emperor Mingxian lose face.
The teacup in Baili Chen's hand shattered with a "bang," while Ouyang Yue slowly stood up, her face serene. Today, she wore a silver-white long robe, her posture dignified and tranquil, her face serene, and her whole being exuding a calm and composed aura, immediately attracting a lot of discussion. Everyone thought that Ouyang Yue's demeanor certainly had the capital to fascinate men, but now she was in a dilemma, and no matter what she said, it would probably be a mistake.
"Your Majesty, a year ago I devoted myself to Buddhism and swore to the Buddha that I would not discuss personal matters with my children before my marriage. Please forgive me for not being able to answer. Perhaps after I return to my residence and pray to the Buddha day and night, the Buddha will give me some guidance." Ouyang Yue's voice was soft and bright, like pearls falling on a jade plate, crisp and clear, striking everyone's hearts.
Emperor Mingxian was slightly taken aback. He actually entrusted his personal feelings to the Buddha for guidance. Regardless of whether Ouyang Yue's words were credible or not, Master Minghui had made it clear in the competition that Ouyang Yue had indeed gone to worship Buddha a year ago. If that was the case, it would be difficult to force her.
Many noblewomen in the hall looked at Ouyang Yue with slightly bright eyes. Ouyang Yue's answer was extremely clever, not only extricating herself from the predicament but also leaving others speechless. This matter concerned Buddhism, and regardless of its truth or falsehood, it always aroused a sense of taboo. Besides, Ouyang Yue hadn't coldly stated that at eighteen or twenty years old, they were only at the age of marriage, and she was only a year away from fifteen. If they truly loved each other, couldn't they wait? If the Ninth Prince lost interest by then, the matter would naturally be dropped. As for the marriage agreement with the Huang family, no one knew what would happen in the next year, and it was equally difficult to say. In a way, she had indirectly extricated herself from the predicament.
Ouyang Yue's quick wit was quite endearing to these noblewomen. In the inner quarters of various mansions, foolish women didn't survive long; they were always the ones being schemed against. Those present were mostly the legitimate wives of their respective households, and their sons needed wives who were both talented and intelligent to support the entire household in the future. Ouyang Yue had previously won the title of the most beautiful woman on the continent, earning her reputation for talent. Today, she possessed a graceful and powerful appearance and naturally outstanding temperament, and her intelligence was equally impressive. Wasn't she a born matriarch?
These people's minds immediately started racing. So many things could happen in a year. Those families with more power than Huang Qi even had some crooked ideas.
Huang Yu frowned as he listened. In his opinion, Ouyang Yue clearly didn't want to acknowledge their marriage. She was trying to delay and marry Baili Mao in the future. That damned bitch was indeed that vain and despicable woman. How dare she turn her back on her promise? He absolutely disagreed: "Ouyang Yue, I have the marriage certificate in my hand. I am your rightful fiancé. What do you mean by this? Do you want to deny it?" Huang Yu's voice was filled with barely concealed anger.
Ouyang Yue simply gazed at him silently, a faint smile playing on her lips, seemingly a smile, yet not quite. Huang Yu, however, perceived it as a mockery of his overestimation of his abilities, which only fueled his rage. The others in the hall, observing Huang Yu's behavior, felt he was utterly uncouth. Leaving aside the matter of the marriage arrangement, which was traditionally a matter of parental arrangement and matchmaker's word, with the children only entitled to offer minor opinions and having no real say, it was already somewhat impolite for Ouyang Yue to reveal her lifelong spouse in front of so many people. While Emperor Mingxian had previously stated that no one should have objections, Huang Yu's accusation was unreasonable. This was not a matter that could be resolved through discussion between the two of them. Furthermore, Ouyang Yue's previous words were also meant to help herself, as well as Baili Mao and Huang Yu, to ease the awkwardness of the former two. As for Huang Yu's previous offense against Emperor Mingxian, it was let go. His actions were rather nonsensical and showed a lack of understanding of good intentions, which only made him more repulsive.
"So what if they deny it? Yue'er won't marry anyone!" Suddenly, a cold, hard voice broke in. Baili Chen was startled and sat back down, which was about to stand up. He turned his head and saw that Xuan Yuan Chaohua was standing up with a sullen face. Baili Chen frowned. Why did Xuan Yuan Chaohua have to interfere? Now, anyone who said anything would only make the situation more awkward.
Huang Yu's anger intensified as he looked at Xuan Yuan Chaohua. Of course, he knew this man—the First General of the Great Zhou Dynasty, a prodigy who had achieved fame at a young age and was the object of many noble ladies' aspirations. Yet, in the final beauty pageant, Xuan Yuan Chaohua had volunteered to be Ouyang Yue's teammate, which had indeed sparked numerous rumors. However, since Li Chen, Leng Caiwen, and others were also present, seemingly on a leisurely outing, it hadn't been taken seriously. But Xuan Yuan Chaohua bringing this up now was intriguing. Could it be that Xuan Yuan Chaohua had also been aware of Ouyang Yue's feelings all along, which was why he chose to follow and protect her, hoping to gain an advantage through proximity?
This promiscuous slut has even managed to hook up with Xuan Yuan Chaohua. Looking at Xuan Yuan Chaohua's gloomy face, Huang Yu instinctively felt a little scared, but his anger was even greater. His face flushed red as he said, "And what gives you the right to say such things? I am Ouyang Yue's fiancé. What gives you the right to say that Ouyang Yue won't marry me? You have no right!"
Xuanyuan Chaohua coldly looked at Huang Yu: "Yue'er just said that she made a vow before the Buddha that she would not consider these things before marriage, but you are forcing her. This is really against the principles of a gentleman. Yue'er will not be happy if she marries such a man. Of course she will not marry him."
"That's none of your business!" Huang Yu retorted angrily.
Xuan Yuan Chaohua's expression grew even colder, his gaze towards Huang Yu like a steel blade, capable of inflicting a long, bloody gash with a single glance: "As his brother, I disagree."
Huang Yu suddenly laughed, looking at Xuan Yuan Chaohua with a mocking smile: "What brother and sister? Although General Xuan Yuan is highly respected, he cannot speak nonsense in front of the people of the five kingdoms. Now that I have the marriage certificate in my hand, who has more right to decide this marriage?"
"Me!" Xuan Yuan Chaohua's expression remained calm, causing Baili Chen's heart to stir slightly. He had known Xuan Yuan Chaohua since childhood. If it were merely because he liked Yue'er, he would never have humiliated her in front of so many people, dragging her into a love triangle with three men. That would only lead Yue'er into an abyss of despair, something no wise person would do, and Yue'er would likely hate him for it. Baili Chen suddenly smiled, poured himself a glass of wine, raised it slightly, and sipped it quietly, watching the scene unfold.
Huang Yu felt a sharp pain in his chest. He was Ouyang Yue's rightful fiancé. He'd already had the Ninth Prince, and now Xuan Yuan Chaohua dared to try and compete with him? Since things had come to this, he wouldn't rest until he won. Originally, he'd hoped to marry Ouyang Yue, but now he was determined to. Ouyang Yue had made him lose face in front of so many people, causing him to argue until he was red in the face. If he didn't torment this wretched woman to death, he would never have peace for the rest of his life!
"You don't deserve it!" Huang Yu said through gritted teeth.
Xuanyuan Chaohua silently stared at Huang Yu, a fierce rage erupting from his body like a tiger on the battlefield. Huang Yu was startled and took a step back. Those sitting beside Xuanyuan Chaohua felt a tremor in their hearts. This man, who had gone to the frontier to fight at the young age of thirteen and had been tempered for eight years, possessed an aura that was not only domineering but also terrifying, carrying a heavy, bloody scent. This was the number one general of the Great Zhou Dynasty. At this moment, no one thought that Xuanyuan Chaohua was just a name without substance. If his aura was so powerful, how ferocious would he be on the battlefield?
Xuan Yuan Chaohua's deep voice rang out slowly, word by word: "As Yue'er's biological brother, in this Langya Continent, probably no one is more qualified than me to inquire about Yue'er's marriage. And I, Xuan Yuan Chaohua, am saying here today, you, Huang Yu, are not worthy! You can forget about marrying Yue'er in this lifetime!"
"Brother, what are you talking about? You..." Huang Yu laughed and looked at Xuan Yuan Chaohua as if he were a fool.
Everyone in the hall looked at Xuan Yuan Chaohua with varying expressions. Everyone knew that Ouyang Yue was the daughter of Ning Shi and Ouyang Zhide; how could she be Xuan Yuan Chaohua's sister? The two were completely unrelated. If Xuan Yuan Chaohua had taken a liking to Ouyang Yue, he should have just said so. Why come up with such an illogical excuse? It only made him a laughingstock.
However, Ouyang Yue was clearly taken aback, her expression shifting as she looked at Xuan Yuan Chaohua with a strange look in her eyes. Baili Chen, who had been watching her closely, had a sudden thought: Could this be true?
Ouyang Zhide was also stunned, staring at Xuanyuan Chaohua without blinking. He knew better than anyone that Ouyang Yue was not his biological daughter, but he had no idea who Leng Yuyan's man was. Could it be Xuanyuan Chaohua's father, Xuanyuan Zheng?
Ning Shi's expression changed drastically. She herself was infertile, so how could she not know? She had always believed that Ouyang Yue was the child of that vile woman Leng Yuyan and Ouyang Zhide. Could it be that she had been mistaken all along? This… how could this be? This situation was simply unacceptable!
"Chaohua, what are you saying? Ouyang Yue is your sister?" Emperor Mingxian and the others were also shocked.
Xuan Yuan Chaohua said respectfully, "Uncle is right. Ouyang Yue is indeed my sister, my biological sister. There is absolutely no mistake about that."
"This..." Emperor Mingxian was speechless for a moment, not knowing how to react. The people in the hall also had to come out of their shock. If Xuanyuan Chaohua said those words before to help Ouyang Yue out of a predicament, or to win the beauty, it was different to say them to Emperor Mingxian with such certainty. If he had uttered even half a lie, it would be a crime of deceiving the emperor. Xuanyuan Chaohua would not be so foolish as to commit a capital crime for a woman. There was only one possibility: Ouyang Yue was really his younger sister.
This...this is too mysterious. Ouyang Yue is fourteen years old, and everyone thought she was the daughter of Ouyang Zhide and Ning Shi. Now she actually has an older brother who is the number one general of the Great Zhou Dynasty. This change is truly astonishing. But then everyone suddenly realized something.
Xuanyuan Chaohua and Ouyang Yue are biological siblings, but even biological siblings can be full siblings, half-siblings, or even half-siblings. Ning Shi was always the legitimate daughter of the Ning family, and her marriage to Ouyang Zhide was a natural progression. Those familiar with Ning Shi knew she rarely had the opportunity to travel far from home, so Ouyang Yue was born in the capital. But how could Xuanyuan Chaohua and Ouyang Yue be biological siblings? The possibility of them being full siblings was indeed low. Xuanyuan Chaohua was indeed Xuanyuan Zheng's son, that much was certain. Since Ouyang Yue was born in the capital, the most likely explanation was that she was Ouyang Zhide's child with Ning Shi, meaning she was Xuanyuan Chaohua's half-sibling. Otherwise, the two would be difficult to connect. However, some well-connected people in the hall suddenly remembered that Xuanyuan Zheng had been rumored to have had a child with a woman from the border region, but few knew who that woman was. Everyone was very curious about her, but had no way of knowing.
Ouyang Zhide was also away leading troops for many years. Could it be that Ning Shi took this opportunity to have an affair with Xuan Yuanzheng and gave birth to Ouyang Yue? So Xuan Yuanzheng and Ouyang Yue may be the same father and mother, but the mother is now someone else's wife and Ouyang Yue was born out of wedlock.
The more they thought about it, the more likely it seemed. Their gazes towards Ning Shi now held a deep contempt. To the people of the Great Zhou, both Xuan Yuanzheng and Ouyang Zhide were renowned generals. Although the former was more famous and influential, they were both heroes who led troops to defend the country and were equally worthy of respect. As for the court officials, Xuan Yuanzheng lived up to his name, being extremely upright. Although a military general, he lacked the rudeness often associated with them, possessing instead the refinement of a scholar. He had many friends among the officials in court.
Ouyang Zhide was a man of Emperor Mingxian, equally martial and upright. Although he didn't associate with many people, he hadn't made any major enemies either, and both he and Ouyang Zhide had a good reputation in the court. Now, he was being manipulated by a woman, which was simply infuriating and disgusting. Looking at Ning Shi, she saw disgust, hatred, contempt, mockery, and disdain—she had seen all the most disgusted expressions in the world, and she was trembling with rage.
Old Madam Ning was stunned, her face contorted with rage. Although this Madam Ning was her niece, Ouyang Zhide was her own son. Who in the world was closer to her than Ouyang Zhide? If Madam Ning dared to have an affair behind her son's back, she would be the first to kill her, regardless of the Ning family's reaction. She coldly said, "What's going on? How could Yue'er and Xuanyuan Chaohua be siblings? How could you do this to me, how could you do this to De'er!"
Ning's face turned red and then pale with anger. She felt like she was being tortured by the many eyes in the hall and wished she could just kill herself on the spot. Her teeth were grinding together. "How was I supposed to know that Ouyang Yue wasn't my daughter at all?"