Threads of Fate and Power(TEMPORARILY STOPPED)

Chapter 5

CHAPTER 5

The morning sun filtered through the curtains, casting a soft glow across the room as Shangguan Ning prepared for the momentous day. His personal attendants moved gracefully around him, carefully dressing him in the wedding hanfu sent by the second prince of the demon empire, Helan Li Qiang. The hanfu was unlike anything Shangguan Ning had ever worn—its fabric was dark with intricate silver embroidery that shimmered under the light, symbolizing the union of the Wu Dynasty and the demon empire.

"Your Imperial Highness, you look magnificent," Cong said as he adjusted the final layer of the robe. His tone was respectful, though the weight of the day seemed to hang in the air. The hanfu was befitting a man of Ning’s status, with a design that was regal but not overly adorned. The minimal accessories highlighted his noble demeanor, ensuring that while his beauty was unmistakable, his appearance still carried the dignity of a prince.

As part of the tradition, a veil was draped over his head, the soft material obscuring his face but still allowing a glimpse of his delicate features. Shangguan Ning’s expression was serene, though his heart carried the weight of the decision made for him—an alliance that was meant to bring peace between two races.

Once the preparations were complete, Shangguan Ning stepped into his carriage. The atmosphere outside his estate was filled with anticipation. Servants, guards, and attendants all gathered to see him off, their expressions a mix of sadness and pride. The carriage, pulled by strong horses, was ornately decorated with banners and symbols of the Wu Dynasty, marking the occasion of an imperial wedding.

As the wheels began to turn, Shangguan Ning looked out through the slightly parted veil. His thoughts drifted to the ceremony that awaited him at the palace and the life that would follow after.

"Today, I seal my fate for the peace of our people," he murmured quietly, though Cong, seated beside him, overheard.

"It is an honorable sacrifice, Your Imperial Highness," Cong reassured, his voice steady though a trace of sadness lingered.

The carriage made its way through the streets of the capital, heading toward the grand palace where the ceremonial rites would take place before they departed for the demon empire. The path was lined with citizens who had come to witness the historic union, their cheers and well-wishes following the procession as it passed.

Upon arriving at the palace, the grandeur of the imperial court was on full display. Ministers, officers, and noble families had all gathered, their gazes fixed on the impending union between the Wu Dynasty and the demon empire. The demon envoys, including Helan Li Qiang, were already present, standing before the emperor. The air was filled with an aura of formality and expectancy as Shangguan Ning stepped out of the carriage, his veiled form capturing the attention of all.

With slow, measured steps, he entered the grand hall where the ceremony would begin. This was the first stage of his journey—one that would ultimately lead him far beyond the borders of his homeland.

Shangguan Ning stood beside Helan Li Qiang, the second prince of the demon empire, as they made their way to the front of the ceremonial hall. The silence in the grand palace was almost palpable, filled with the weight of the moment. The veiled Shangguan Ning felt the firm yet gentle hold of Helan Li Qiang's hand, steadying him as they approached the altar.

The grand eunuch’s voice echoed through the hall, signaling the start of the marriage ceremony. “Let us begin the ceremonial rites!”

The State Preceptor, robed in traditional garments of the Wu Dynasty, stood before them to guide the ancient rites. His voice was solemn as he spoke the first command.