The sun climbed higher in the sky, and it was clear the banquet would begin soon. An Shutong moved among the guests, her demure and restrained demeanor tinged with helplessness. Although she wore a smile, one could sense it was somewhat forced.
After making a round, An Shutong found an opportunity to slip outside the hall. Mu Qing immediately followed her. "Miss, Nanny Yao just returned."
An Shutong tilted her head slightly. "And?"
"Nanny Yao didn't look very happy." Mu Qing's expression was also grim. If Nanny Yao had been delighted, it would have meant the Empress Dowager's orders had been carried out.
As things stood, Mu Qing couldn't be sure if the Emperor would come.
An Shutong looked up at the sky. The palace eaves blocked most of the sunlight, but she still had to squint to gaze upward.
'I always knew the chances of failure were high. Although the Emperor and the Empress Dowager are mother and son, their relationship is far from close.'
