Step aside, let me take charge!.

Summary

The chapter revolves around the wedding of Xun Ding and Gong Xi Lai, highlighting the political tensions and social dynamics at play. Xun Ding is concerned about the potential dangers following their union, contemplating the need for deception to protect themselves. During the wedding banquet, guests, primarily court officials, engage in excessive toasting and drinking, reflecting the strict regulations around alcohol consumption in their society. Xun Ding, the groom, is pressured into drinking more than he is comfortable with, especially by his colleagues and family members, including Gongxi Qiu, who exacerbates the situation by proposing to bury past grievances over drinks. The atmosphere shifts as discussions of political intrigue arise, hinting at the looming threats from the Northern Desert. The chapter also introduces Qi Shan and his daughter Qi Miao, who discuss the recent death of Inspector General Zheng Yu, emphasizing the perilous nature of their world where good people often meet untimely ends. As Qi Shan reflects on the harsh realities of their society, he expresses a desire for his daughter to remain innocent, despite knowing the dangers they face. The chapter concludes with a tender moment between Qi Shan and his aging cat, Su Shang, symbolizing a fleeting sense of peace amidst the turmoil.

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