With the Crown Prince about to depart for the south, the Emperor could no longer remain at ease in Yuqing Palace for the summer.
Thus, the Emperor ended his summer retreat early and returned to Shangjing with his empress and concubines.
By the time they reached the palace gates, the Crown Prince was already there with his men to greet them.
As it was still raining, it was inconvenient for everyone to linger. After a hasty exchange of formalities, they entered the palace.
Hua Qingqing received the Emperor's special permission to return home and inform her family's elders that she had entered the palace.
Meanwhile, Hua Manman returned to the Prince Mansion with Prince Zhao.
When Gao Shan learned that Prince Zhao and Lady Hua were about to head south, he quickly had people pack their belongings and prepare the carriages.
Li Ji sent Chen Wangbei with his personal letter to the Tiger Roar Camp to mobilize three thousand men.
