Although the Zheng family was newly wealthy, they did not know many people in the capital. However, thanks to the emperor's recent praise of Gu Qinlan, as soon as the family appeared, many ladies came to greet them warmly.
Gu Qinlan was elegant and composed as she interacted with the guests, while Zheng Huiyi followed closely behind, diligently learning these social skills.
Just as they were talking, Zhao Qingyu hurried over and affectionately took Gu Qinlan's arm: "Sister, I'm here."
Gu Qinlan immediately turned around and bowed to Madam Zhao with a radiant smile.
Madam Zhao smiled and helped her up, then led her around among the other ladies.
After nearly an hour of such socializing, a palace servant came to remind them that the palace banquet was about to begin.
Gu Qinlan led the Zheng family to their seats in the Zheng residence and they sat down quietly.
Not long after entering the Luo residence, Gu Qinlian was seen following the Fourth Prince's Consort into the hall. The Fourth Prince's Consort held a prominent position, and her seat was arranged very close to the front, quite far from the Zheng residence.
As Gu Qinlian passed by the Zheng family's seats, she couldn't help but reveal a hint of arrogance, giving Gu Qinlian a provocative glance.
In response to her provocation, Gu Qinlan simply smiled and silently uttered three words: "Old habits die hard."
Gu Qinlian was immediately furious, her face as dark as a storm cloud, her heart filled with the rage to crush him to dust, but she could only swallow her anger.
With the arrival of all the distinguished guests, the palace banquet officially began. The master of ceremonies announced in a drawn-out voice, "His Majesty the Emperor has arrived! His Majesty the Empress has arrived!"
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