Xie Xun and Dugu Jing's duel was scheduled for November 28th, a date drawing closer with each passing day after the imperial wedding. Fengyu would be lying if she claimed she wasn't worried at all. Furthermore, once the end of the month passed, the year-end festivities were imminent—a major affair in Beining. No one wished to see the emperor in peril, and every morning court session was filled with attempts to persuade Xie Xun to reconsider. Xie Xun's response was unwavering: "I have given my word to Dugu Jing. Once spoken, it cannot be withdrawn unless Dugu Jing himself relinquishes the duel; otherwise, it must proceed."
