Now, in other families, it is the mother-in-law who brings along the daughter-in-law, followed by a glittering entourage, bustling and lively.
Here at the Duke Weiguo Residence, Song Hong sat alone in the front, and Lady Gao joined him after she came in, sitting beside him.
Behind them on a few small tables sat only the two brothers, Song Chongjun and Song Chongzhao, who, due to their minor official positions, managed to secure places behind Song Hong.
Behind Lady Gao was a long table, which remained empty.
Anyone with keen eyes could tell that this was prepared for Wang Yongzhu, the wife of the heir-apparent.
As everyone settled down, the officials and the ladies of the outer court had mostly arrived, engaging in polite small talk with their neighboring colleagues.
Up front, those concubines who were out of favor had already taken their seats early on.
The empty seats were reserved for the favored concubines, the princess consorts, and the Empress Dowager and Emperor.
