Chapter 331

Upon entering the Hell Monarch Estate, Carissa was immediately overwhelmed by a cacophony of voices, all offering congratulations and well-wishes. Some voices were familiar; others were not. Eleanor's annoying voice was among them. Jessica was also present—how irritating! Her wedding was already becoming a mess. Kyle was the center of attention, overshadowing Carissa as the bride. But it didn't matter, because Violet quietly approached and took her friend's hand.

"GURG who?"

"You're so childish! You're Rod!" Carissa joked, laughing.

"If you say so," Violet replied, chuckling. "Rod is probably in the side hall. After all, he's part of your dowry."

Carissa chuckled, feeling less anxious. She had no idea what the procedures were. She just stood there, listening to people set up a table and other things. Her mind wandered. Why were they setting up a table? Were she and Rafael supposed to swear brotherhood here? That was so funny. Well, it wasn't actually funny, but her mind wandered because she couldn't see anything clearly.

Then, she heard someone call for Helen to sit in the main seat and prepare for the rituals. Another commotion followed once Helen was seated. Someone requested another chair because Adrian also needed to sit and receive salutations. But Adrian was Carissa's master. The bride should have bid farewell to her parents at home before coming here. How could she give salutations to her master in the groom's family's hall? It wasn't proper etiquette!

Well, proper etiquette or not, Everett would intervene. A stern voice rang out: "This wedding ritual is about showing respect to their elders. I'm Rafael's master. What's the big deal about him giving me salutations?"

+25 BONUS

In any case, the Pathfinders Guild was adamant that someone from the bride's side must be present to receive the couple's salutations. Who cared about etiquette? In the world of martial arts, rules were determined by strength. Everett's logic was straightforward: As Rafael's master, his presence was entirely appropriate. Then, Everett remarked that since his guild senior, Adrian, was present, it was improper for him, as a guild junior, to be seated while Adrian stood. Was there such a rule in the capital? Regardless, the rhetorical question made sense, and everyone considered it reasonable. Ultimately, Adrian got his seat.

Thus, a length of white silk ribbon, tied in a double-heart knot, was handed to Carissa, with the other end held by Rafael. The two of them stood together. Carissa was familiar with this part. Without hesitation, she turned outward and even prompted Rafael, "We should show our respect to the Lord first. We need to face outside."

Rafael slowly turned around, his voice calm and even, "We should listen to the ceremonial officer. Today, the Protocol Minister is officiating our wedding."

Carissa fell silent, realizing her mistake. It was already unfortunate that Rafael was marrying someone who had been married before. She shouldn't bring up other matters relating to her previous wedding.

After the salutation ritual, Carissa was led into the newlywed suite. The journey was long, and she had to keep the white veil on. The veil was only to be lifted by Rafael once they were in their suite. Once the veil was lifted, they would drink the ceremonial wine, and the matchmaker would come in to give them a blessing. A crowd would come in to receive blessing gifts from the couple, then Carissa would stay in the room while Rafael mingled with the guests. During the banque… (The passage cuts off here)