The monarch and his ministers chatted as they made their way to Cining Palace, where Empress Dowager Wang and Song Ci were already enjoying tea and gossip.
"Yunzhi is here too? Perfect, the four of us can dine together. Today's potato banquet is something both I and your mother personally cooked, you're in for a treat," Empress Dowager Wang said with a smile to Song Zhiyuan.
Song Zhiyuan bowed and said, "It would be impolite to refuse, so I shall shamelessly partake."
"This is a rare good day, Lian Qiao, warm up another pot of yellow wine, let's enjoy a few drinks," Empress Dowager Wang instructed.
Lian Qiao chuckled and curtsied in agreement.
Song Zhiyuan and Emperor Chu exchanged a glance, their eyes saying, Your mother's enthusiasm is exceptionally high.
Emperor Chu: No worries, no worries.
"Aunt," Emperor Chu greeted Song Ci with a formal salute.
