There was not even the slightest sign of hesitation as if they were returning home, making the officials look at each other, thinking perhaps the rumors about the gigolo were true?
Indeed, though the Capital, and the entire realm, were abuzz with rumors that Zhao Gou was the Empress's gigolo, it remained in the realm of 'rumor'.
It hadn't received official confirmation, and high-ranking officials had never quite believed it, only considering him a 'favored minister'.
As night fell, significant officials began arriving one after another.
"Mr. Yuan... you're finally here. I've been here for a while."
"Grandmaster, please take your time, haha... Han scholar, you're here too? Please sit."
"Minister Xue, you look truly radiant today, come sit, the place is already prepared."
"Duke Tang, why aren't your daughter and the Young Master here? Oh, they're outside."
Zhao Douan exchanged pleasantries with everyone who arrived.
