Chapter 1160 - 369: Reaction, Beekeeping
The Mo and Cui families formed a marriage alliance, and without any intentional concealment, within less than half a day, the entire upper circle of Jing City was aware of it, each one surprised. Many with dark thoughts mocked in private, a widower and a divorced woman, what a perfect match, neither could claim to have climbed above the other.
Even in the Imperial palace, where Emperor Huian dealt with myriad state affairs, the news reached his ears. At that moment, among those present in the imperial study were Chu Heng and several senior officials. Emperor Huian immediately praised the match as "a fine union."
No matter what those senior officials thought privately, once the emperor declared it a fine union, who would dare to disagree? When these officials returned home, hearing anyone speak with disdain about the Mo-Cui marriage alliance, they scolded them harshly, ordering them to return to their courtyards to diligently study the Women’s Precepts.
Of course, both Mo and Cui families had heard those unfavorable comments, but none took them to heart. The mouth is on others’ faces, but one’s life is theirs to live. Rather than be angered by idle gossip, it’s better to live one’s days well.
Both Mo Qingze and Cui Qingrou were not entering their first marriage, but the traditional rites of the "three letters and six etiquettes" were indispensable. The Cui family, always emphasizing propriety, stubbornly held to some old views, considering such a union a joyous occasion but not one to flaunt; hence, they suggested simplicity while still completing all the rituals.
Mo Qingze’s thoughts, however, were entirely the opposite. He saw nothing shameful about remarrying. If there was nothing disgraceful, why shouldn’t they treat it as a first marriage?
Persuaded by his insistence, Old Lady Cui waved her hand, allowing him to proceed as he wished, and privately reassured Cui Qingrou with satisfaction, "It’s good that your future son-in-law values you. Those children are also good. After you marry into their home, treat them well."
Cui Qingrou was also delighted, her eyes brimming with the shyness and anticipation of a maiden getting married for the first time, "Daughter understands, I will certainly treat all the children as my own."