When we finally reached the banquet grounds, there was a large floral arch gate at the entrance. The 100 feet tall arch was covered in colorful flowers and framed the expansive ground. Hundreds of colorful tents were set up with flags of the guest royal status. And in the front center of all the tents was a large golden tent set up on a raised stage. The sight clearly showed the power and wealth of the Wu Xi Empire. I only had a moment to take in the majestic sight before the Prince gently pulled me along beside him.

"Prince Wu Jian and his Wang Fei has arrived"

The banquet ground had been festive with chattering and laughter until the Prince and I entered. It was just like the first banquet where I had attended with the Prince. People went quiet at the sight of us together. I figured it was because I stood pale in comparison to the tall Prince.

They must wonder why such a woman like me is beside the handsome prince.

"Wu Jian and his Wang Fei greets the Great Emperor and Empress of Wu Xi"

As soon as we reached the golden tent, the Prince let go of my hand to step forward and greet the man in the golden dragon robe. The Prince had told me previously that I didn't need to say anything - just stand close to him. In silence, I kept my head and eyes down.

When the silence continues on awkwardly, I wondered what was wrong. Quietly, I lifted my head and look at the Prince tall back. His expression was stiff and cold. Why does he look angrier?

"Step forward daughter of Marquess Li"

In the mist of the deafening silence, Emperor Huizhong spoke. Startled to be called out suddenly, I lifted my head to see the Emperor - strong and tall with an intense majestic aura. Like Wu Jian, his grandfather voice was deep with a commanding tone.

Glancing quietly at the Prince, I saw his usual expressionless face. He's definitely wasn't happy. Not wanting to offend the Emperor nor embarrassed the Prince, I stepped forward and stood beside the Prince. My hands to one side, I bowed my head low like Jumao had taught me.

"Remove the hood so I can see your face" The Emperor voice held a hint of amusement.

Why do people want to see my face? I kept my head low while I uncover the hood from my head. With my emotion blanked and expression calmed, I lifted my head to face the Emperor.

"The rumor, it seems, did not do you justice"

The Emperor soft chuckles made me wonder what he found so amusing. The smile he had while he looked at me from head to toe made me nervous. The poison had changed my feature since childhood - causing the color of my eyes and skin to change abnormally. 

Did I look too strange?