The next day, Zhou Fu's betrothal gifts arrived.
Soon after, an imperial eunuch arrived to read out an imperial decree: the marriage had been personally bestowed by the Emperor, accompanied by a generous reward of fine treasures.
Mei Gongxue was still somewhat dazed. Upon inquiring, she learned that at yesterday's Lantern Festival banquet, Zhou Fu had won first place in the riddle competition. When the Emperor asked what reward he desired, he had requested this marriage, which was how the decree came to be issued.
Chapter 33