I alone am the Honoured One!

Zhao Tian and Li Jia stepped into the Alchemy Chamber and glanced at Yao Jing and Ji Shuang, who were waiting for them.

Turning her gaze to Zhao Tian, Ji Shuang smiled faintly "Then shall we leave... Tian."

"Mhm."

...

With a faint flick of their sleeves, the four figures ascended into the sky, leaving the chamber behind.

The rush of wind greeted them as they soared above the clouds, their robes billowing in the air.

The expansive landscape stretched beneath them as they continued flying.

Ji Shuang, flying slightly ahead, glanced back at Zhao Tian

Her purple hair streamed behind her, dancing with the wind as she spoke, her voice carrying effortlessly despite the rushing air. "We should reach the Imperial Jade Palace by evening. We can rest there for the night."

Her words lingered in the air as she added, "And tomorrow… will be your marriage."

Hearing this Zhao Tian nodded his head while Yao Jing's gaze squinted in thought.

They took rests in between and stopped to fill their stomachs as they continued their flight.

As they continued their journey, the atmosphere gradually shifted.

The sky deepened to hues of orange and crimson as the sun began its descent.

The shadows of the clouds stretched long and thin over the landscape, painting in orange.
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Ahead, the towering spires of the Imperial Jade Palace came into view, gleaming like polished emeralds against the fiery backdrop of the setting sun.

Li Jia's eyes quivered in awe looking at the palace "So this is the Jade Imperial palace."

As they descended toward the grand courtyard, the cool evening breeze carried the faint scent of blooming flowers from the surrounding gardens.

The courtyard itself was paved with polished jade tiles that shimmered under the golden glow of lanterns, and intricately carved stone fountains flowed with crystal-clear water.

Rows of servants, clad in immaculate white robes, bowed deeply as Zhao Tian, Ji Shuang, Li Jia, and Yao Jing landed.

The head steward, an elderly man with sharp eyes, stepped forward "Honored guests, the Imperial Jade Palace welcomes you. Your chambers have been prepared with utmost care. Please, allow us to guide you."

Ji Shuang nodded her head "Lead the way,"

The steward motioned for the group to follow as a small retinue of attendants fell into step behind them.

The palace's grandeur became more apparent as they walked through arched gateways and long corridors lined with towering columns of jade and gold.

The air was fragrant with the scent of lotus blossoms and incense.

Li Jia glanced around, her eyes flickering with amusement. "They certainly know how to make an impression," she muttered, her voice low enough for only Zhao Tian to hear.

Zhao Tian smiled faintly. "Yeah..."

They were led to an open-air pavilion nestled in the center of the palace gardens.

A tranquil stream wound through the lush greenery and the soft chirping of crickets filled the evening air.

The attendants stopped at the pavilion's steps, bowing once more.

The steward turned to address the group. "Master and Ladies, this pavilion has been designated for your evening rest. Individual chambers have been prepared for each of you, as well as a common lounge for your convenience."

He gestured toward a younger servant, who stepped forward with a deep bow. "This is Ming Xiu. She will attend to your needs tonight. If you require anything, do not hesitate to summon her."

Ming Xiu, a petite woman, bowed lower, her hands folded in front of her. "I am at your service, my lords and ladies."

The steward continued, "Additionally, a light supper has been arranged in the dining hall should you wish to partake. If you would like refreshments brought here instead, it shall be done immediately."

Ji Shuang waved a hand dismissively. "The arrangements are satisfactory. That will be all for now."

The steward and his retinue bowed deeply once more before retreating, leaving Ming Xiu standing quietly at the side, awaiting further instruction.

As they ascended the steps into the pavilion, the soft glow of lanterns illuminated the luxurious decor inside.

Yao Jing ran her fingers over the smooth lacquered surface of a side table and smiled faintly. "They truly spare no effort in hospitality."

Li Jia flopped onto one of the low-cushioned seats in the common lounge. "Well, at least it's comfortable. Though I still think we could've managed fine with less pomp."

Zhao Tian, standing near the open balcony that overlooked the gardens, chuckled. "You'd miss it if it wasn't there, Jia."

She gave him a playful glare but didn't respond, leaning back against the cushions instead.

Ji Shuang crossed her arms, her gaze drifting toward the horizon. "Rest well tonight. Tomorrow is a significant day for you Tian."

Zhao Tian nodded and he exchanged a glance with Li Jia, who sighed before rising to her feet.

"Let's rest, then. Ming Xiu, could you bring some tea to my chamber later?"

Ming Xiu bowed quickly. "Of course, Lady."

...

Zhao Hanyue sat cross-legged on a luxurious divan in her chamber, as she was immersed in the pages of the book in her hand.

Her focus was interrupted by a soft knock at the door.

She lifted her gaze and closed the book with a gentle thud as she set it aside on the table beside her.

"Come in,"

The wooden door creaked open, and a young maid entered, as she carried a large embroidered bag in her hands.

"My Lady. your clothes and accessories for tomorrow's wedding have arrived."

She approached the table in the center of the room, carefully placing the bag down before stepping back respectfully.

Zhao Hanyue's eyes flicked to the bag briefly before returning to the maid, "Is everything in order?"

"Yes, My Lady," the maid replied, bowing once more.

The maid hesitated for a moment before adding, "Master Zhao Tian has already arrived at the palace. Do you wish to have an audience with him?"

At the mention of Zhao Tian, Zhao Hanyue's elegant brows knitted slightly "No,"

The maid blinked in surprise but quickly recovered, bowing her head again. "Understood, My Lady."

As the maid began to retreat, Zhao Hanyue raised a hand, stopping her mid-step. "Wait,"

The maid froze, her head still lowered.

"Leave the tea set out. I'll prepare it myself later."

"Yes, My Lady." The maid hurried to set up the tea set on the low table near the window before bowing one last time and exiting the room.

Once alone, Zhao Hanyue let out a quiet sigh, her shoulders relaxing slightly.

Her gaze lingered on the bag for a moment before she rose gracefully from her seat and approached it.

Undoing the ties, she opened the bag to reveal the elaborate wedding attire within.

Zhao Hanyue reached out, her fingers brushing over the fabric and the texture was impossibly smooth.

Yet, as she stared at the garments, her chest tightened, and a complex emotion flickered across her face... one that was neither joy nor sorrow, but something in between.

She turned abruptly, walking toward the window.

Pushing it open, she let the cool night breeze wash over her. It carried the faint scent of blooming lotuses from the palace gardens below.

"Tomorrow,"

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I hope you guys liked this chapter!