Chapter 10: The Young Master's Betrothal Amidst Martial Training — Qing Yu and Huaiyang United as One Family

Seated on the pleasure boat, Li Wanting’s heart was truly overflowing with joy. She watched as several boats glided merrily across the shimmering surface of the lake, admiring the lush greenery and cool shade all around. Her spirit felt at ease and content.

“Daughter, are you happy?”

“With Mother by my side, how could I not be utterly delighted?”

Truth be told, the past two days had been like riding a roller coaster; it was as if she had gone from the rustic to the refined in the blink of an eye.

The summer wind ruffled the lake and sent cool breezes that lifted Wanting’s hair. Her youthful face glowed with a unique radiance, rosy and fair.

Lady Huo couldn’t help but sigh, “Ah, to be young is such a blessing.”

“Mother, why do you say that? You’re not old at all,” Li Wanting responded, catching the hint in Lady Huo’s words. “You were born with a face that brings fortune to your husband. Father couldn’t manage without you.”

“My sweet girl, you certainly know how to flatter.”

Meanwhile, two days later, the Shen residence was adorned with lanterns and decorations. The master of the house had sent the young master to the Xu family the day before. All the necessary rituals and formalities had been fulfilled.

The engagement ceremony was to be a private affair, attended only by close relatives: both sets of parents, uncles, and so on.

“Dear in-laws, forgive us for not greeting you sooner,” Master Shen said, standing before the gates as Master Xu stepped down from his sedan chair.

“Ah, Brother Shen, from now on, we are family. No need for such formalities,” replied Master Xu with a gesture of respect.

Behind him, Miss Xu called out, “Uncle, I pay my respects.”

“Please, come in, come in,” urged Master Shen.

Master Xu entered the Shen residence with his daughter, followed by the maid Xiaomei, who, being a servant, simply obeyed. The young lady was happy to be marrying into the Shen family, and Xiaomei could only comply.

Master Shen accompanied Master Xu to the main hall, chatting and laughing, dreaming together of the bright future for the young master and miss.

Meanwhile, Young Master Shen was in the rear courtyard, practicing martial arts. His skill with the spear was extraordinary, especially the move called “the returning horse spear,” blending reality and illusion with perfect harmony.

Having learned this renowned spear technique from a master, Shen Rui discovered its power in combat. He longed for a worthy opponent to truly show his abilities.

But for now, he could only imagine an adversary—he was like the lonely hero, unmatched and undefeated.

“Master, Master! The lord is calling you,” a servant shouted from the rear courtyard.

“I know, I’ll be there shortly,” replied Shen Rui, wiping the sweat from his brow with a towel.

Though today was the joyous occasion of his engagement, Shen Rui, always diligent in his martial arts, knew the importance of never neglecting practice.

Meanwhile, the two fathers were deep in conversation in the main hall. The young lady from the Xu family, growing impatient, found an excuse to wander about.

“Miss, look, that’s a lovely scene,” said her maid as they crossed the east alley and turned right into the rear garden. Suddenly, the maid exclaimed as if discovering a new world.

It was Miss Xu’s first visit to the Shen residence, and everything felt fresh and new. Listening to her maid, she followed the direction pointed out and saw, between pavilions and towers, a stream cascading down the rocks beside the northern corridor. The gentle sound of water echoed like celestial music.

“Hei! Ha!” Miss Xu was entranced, when suddenly a powerful shout rang out from behind the rockery—a voice full of masculine vigor that made her heart skip a beat. She moved forward delicately, her pink dress fluttering in the air.

“Miss, wait for me, slow down!” called the maid, hurrying after her.

Miss Xu followed the sound and saw, on the raised martial arts grounds, a young man wielding a long saber. His movements were fierce and swift, his hands, eyes, body, and steps coordinated with the blade’s dance. At times, he leapt into the air, the red tassel on the saber trembling, at others, the blade wrapped and twisted. The scene before her seemed unreal.

“Miss, that’s Young Master Shen,” the maid interjected. Upon hearing this, a blush spread across Miss Xu’s cheeks.

In those days, marriages were arranged by parents and matchmakers. Many couples became husband and wife without ever meeting, leading to both tales of romance and tragedy.

After finishing his last routine, Shen Rui tidied up and prepared to return to the front hall. Miss Xu hurried back along the eastern path, their routes perfectly opposite.

Lady Shen was busy in the kitchen when she heard movement by the well. She rushed out to find her son washing his hands and face. “Son, your father has been urging you. Today is the first time our in-laws visit; the Shen family must not be lacking in courtesy.”

“Mother, I understand,” Shen Rui quickened his pace.

The Shen family’s well had its own story. When it was first dug, the water was salty, puzzling the master of the house. Someone suggested it might be connected to the Eastern Sea by mistake. Master Shen protested, but secretly believed it might be true.

Later, the well water gradually became clear and fresh, and everyone forgot about the incident.

“In-laws, it’s getting late. Shall we head to the restaurant?” Master Shen said, seeing his son arrive. “My son, Shen Rui, pays his respects to Master Xu.”

Shen Rui immediately stepped forward and bowed. “Father-in-law, please accept my respects.”

“Please, rise, we are family. No need for such formalities.”

Shen Rui glanced at his father, who quickly said, “Do as your father-in-law says.”

“Thank you, Father-in-law.”

“Miss, the young master is truly handsome. Congratulations,” the maid whispered to Miss Xu.

After paying respects to the elders, Shen Rui finally noticed the two women in the hall. He knew at once the beautiful one must be Miss Xu and smiled at them, standing politely to the side.

“Now that everyone is here, let’s go to the restaurant together,” said Master Shen, leading them out of the residence. Soon, they were walking along the main avenue beside the river toward the west.

It was noon, and the ancient town of Hexia was bustling as usual. The streets were crowded, the hundred alleys filled with people trading goods. Vegetable sellers tallied their accounts, butchers waited for the last customers, boatmen returning after selling their produce, and families prepared for lunch.

“Boss Song, sorry to trouble you,” Master Shen greeted the restaurant owner. Master Xu looked up at the three-story building, its antique facade adorned with the golden sign “Qingyu Huaiyang Grand Restaurant,” shining prominently.

Downstairs was already full, waiters busy pouring tea and serving water to guests.

“Congratulations, Master Shen! Please, come upstairs to the Mingyue Hall. Waiter, show them the way!” The shrewd Boss Song greeted them with a broad smile. “Welcome, handsome gentlemen and beautiful ladies! Your presence truly brings honor to our establishment.”

“Boss Song, today we rely on your culinary skills,” Master Shen reminded the owner.

“Of course, on a fine day like this.”

“Wait!” Suddenly, a familiar voice called from outside the restaurant.

“What brings you here?”

To find out what happens next, stay tuned for the following chapter.