Wanyan Zhang cupped his hands in salute. "Mother, your son went to take care of an urgent matter."
"Your son came today to tell Mother that as for my marriage with Miss Mu, let's call it off."
The Empress had been sitting, but now she was so angry she stood up. "A perfectly good wedding, and you suddenly throw down a hall full of guests and the bride and run off—how is that acceptable? What on earth is the reason? You must make it clear to me today!"
The Empress's tone was too agitated; after speaking she took a few breaths. Wanyan Zhang hurriedly supported her to sit. "Mother, don't be angry. Your son wants to withdraw from the engagement only because there is a girl I wish to marry."
The Empress frowned. "Who is it? A girl from which family? And where exactly have you been these past few months? Your father the Emperor has asked after you several times, and I didn't even know what to say!"
