Unlike the custom of previous great noble families, Cang Xuan scheduled the family banquet for the second day after his grand wedding. According to his original plan, it was rumored that once the family banquet concluded, the wedding celebrations would officially be over. However, some obstinate veteran officials from the Ministry of Rites had petitioned the Grand King, arguing that such a momentous occasion as the Emperor taking a wife required three full days of feasting, with the third day featuring a grand banquet attended by all guests.
In the end, unable to strongly oppose the wishes of these veteran officials, Cang Xuan had no choice but to agree. Not only would the third day feature a magnificent banquet, but the Emperor and Empress were also scheduled to receive guests. The back gardens would host all-day strolls, entertainment, and competitions, with dozens of contest categories boasting substantial prizes. Consequently, the guests attending the ceremony had not departed early. Xiyan Mountain remained brightly lit with festive lanterns, bustling with crowds, and exceptionally lively.
Xiaoyao had mustered her energy to attend the second day's family banquet, but she found it utterly and completely boring. Old King Xiyan stayed for only a brief while before leaving, leaving behind Cang Xuan, his harem of women, and a massive throng of relatives—fathers-in-law, mothers-in-law, brothers, and sisters—filling the entire room with boisterous chaos.
Chapter 220