Two days before the Dragon Boat Festival, Xia Ruqing made an announcement.
This year's palace banquet, as per tradition, will still be held by the Taiye Pool in the Imperial Garden.
After all, this is a family banquet for the harem and need not be so dreary.
Moreover, during this season.
Everywhere else is too hot and stifling, but by the Taiye Pool, the pavilion is more suitable.
Surrounded by water, with a cool breeze gently blowing, the scenery is beautiful, making the sitting there rather delightful.
The concubines were delighted upon hearing the news.
Especially those palace consorts without children, who usually cannot even see the Emperor.
Learning there is finally a chance to see the Emperor, their excitement was indescribable.
Some even received the news and immediately asked for a search through their wardrobes, looking for suitable attire and jewelry.
Even those who occasionally could see the Emperor thanks to their children were quite excited.
