The herald was among the first to come back to his senses. Seeing as the First and Second Princes were now making their way down the center aisle together, he could only formally state the latter’s identity as well and call for the people in the courtyard to bow to them both at the same time.
Unlike during the Emperor’s passage, the guests on either side could already straighten from their bows as soon as the princes passed them by. Thus, they were free to give in to their curiosity and watch the two from behind.
The second prince was walking slowly, as if he and his “Big Brother” were just taking a leisurely stroll in a park. And though it looked like the first prince was matching his pace, in truth, Bai Ruyi was gently but firmly leading the younger man along through their clasped hand
