Xie Jianshen and Jiang Rufeng weren't exactly strangers. They had exchanged curt greetings on a few past occasions -- mostly formal ones --, but their interactions were limited to distant glances and polite formalities. Never had they delved into anything beyond superficial pleasantries.
Jiang Rufeng had never graced Fuxi Palace with his presence, and Xie Jianshen had never set foot in Shuiran Palace.
Not to mention that Jiang Rufeng was many years older than Xie Jianshen.
The Lion Parade in Shuiran Palace was similar to the Dragon Awakening Festival in Fuxi Palace and the Phoenix Rebirthing Festival in Qifeng Palace. While open to all, these events held an unspoken exclusivity. Those who weren't affiliated with the respective clan rarely participated.
This time around, it was Jiang Rufeng himself who specifically invited Xie Jianshen to join the parade. Although Xie Jianshen was not sure about agreeing to Jiang Rufeng's marriage proposal, he was curious about the Lion Parade.
