The Empress Dowager was elderly and didn't have the stamina of the younger generation. After a few rounds of drinks, she said she was tired and wanted to go back and rest.
The Empress rose as well, offering to escort the Empress Dowager back.
Hua Qingqing, who had come with the Empress Dowager, naturally had to leave as well.
With their departure, the crowd actually loosened up, and the atmosphere at the banquet grew even more lively.
Only Prince Zhao seemed unable to blend in.
He let out a yawn, the very picture of listless boredom.
Once Hua Manman had eaten her fill, Li Ji spoke up languidly.
"Let's head back."
Hua Manman hesitated.
'Aside from the Empress Dowager and the Empress—the two most distinguished guests—everyone was still in their seats. Even the Emperor, at the head of the hall, hadn't left. Wouldn't it be too conspicuous if they suddenly asked to leave at a time like this?'
Prince Zhao, however, couldn't have cared less about such things.
