"To eternally join hearts, will the bride and groom please drip their blood and bind their fates!"
At the officiant's call, a maid entered carrying a tray covered with red cloth. When she lifted the cloth, it revealed two fine needles—one gold, one silver.
Dressed in a brilliant red bridal gown, Lynne Ward picked up the silver needle and lightly pricked her index finger. A drop of fresh blood slid from her fingertip, falling onto the violet flame, and she looked over at Ian Song.
Ian Song felt a faint sense of foreboding.
The officiant smiled and urged, "Young Master Song, please drip your blood."
"Alright!"
After a slight hesitation, Ian Song picked up the gold needle and pricked his finger. A drop of blood rolled down and splashed onto the violet flame. Instantly, the Same-Heart Lamp burst forth with radiant light, and the purple fire twisted into a giant heart shape.
The surrounding guests immediately erupted in cheers.
The officiant's voice rang out again: "The Same-Heart Lamp has been successfully bound. This wedding is now perfectly complete—please send the bride to the bridal chamber!"
Seated even higher than the main hall, the Ward Patriarch watched the scene, a deeply meaningful smile curling his lips.
Next came the banquet.
The Ward Clan is renowned throughout the Sky-Sun Region, so countless people came to attend the wedding. Nearly every major sect and power sent representatives.
With so much face given, Ian Song—as the groom—naturally had to make the rounds to toast the guests.
It took a full hour and a half to complete one circuit of toasts.
"Son-in-law, the patriarch invites you!"
Just as Ian Song finished toasting, a maid approached and spoke to him.
Led by the maid, Ian Song entered a private room.
Inside, another banquet was set. Seated at the table were the Ward Patriarch and six Demigod-realm elders from the Ward Clan.
"Greetings, Patriarch. Greetings, elders!"
Ian Song bowed respectfully.