This quick wit and ability to assess situations is somewhat similar to hers; otherwise, the eldest daughter would certainly not have been the only one punished that night.

The royal gardens are located in the suburbs. The carriage drove away from the gate of the new capital and slowly drove in the opposite direction from the gate.

In another carriage, Lu Qiqi and her sister rode with Xuan Wenying.

The royal gardens were some distance from the city, and Xuan Wenying was worried that the two sisters would go hungry on the way.

He specially ordered someone to get up early and go to Tongxinzhai to buy two portions of pastries.

Both carriages are available; there is absolutely no favoritism.

Lu Yao ate pastries for as long as the carriage traveled, taking small bites each time.

As Lu Qiqi watched her eat, she felt more and more like a little rabbit, so she couldn't help but take a few more glances.

On the way, Xuan Wenying couldn't help but say a few words, "It's your first time attending the Spring Banquet, so there's no need to be nervous."

This royal garden is guarded by imperial guards; not just anyone can enter.

There are too many officials' wives inside, and you don't know them. There will be plenty of opportunities in the future, and I will introduce you to them.

Have a good time today, ladies of your age, enjoying tea, admiring paintings, and going on a spring outing together.

Opportunities to visit this royal garden are rare.

Lu Qiqi smiled and agreed, but she knew very well that this spring banquet was specially prepared by the Empress Dowager, just to see what kind of person she was.

Even if Song Yanqing didn't say it, she knew that the Empress Dowager hadn't summoned her to the palace directly because of the Marquis of Lin'an.

Otherwise, if the emperor delays in granting the marriage, and she goes to the Empress Dowager's palace instead, who knows what kind of rumors will spread in the future.