Zi Ning, who had been silent the whole time, was somewhat puzzled.
"Master, why are you...suddenly asking this?"
Xia Ruqing smiled but said nothing more.
The night gradually fell.
It was rather cool outside, just as Xiao Xizi returned with their food.
Xia Ruqing then led everyone inside to wash their hands and dine.
Lijing Pavilion, which neighbored Qingya Residence, presented a different scene altogether at that moment.
Xiao Dengzi had also brought back food. Upon opening it, the contents were still a horrifying sight: cold congee, meat scraps, soured rice, and other leftovers.
The previous meals had been barely tolerable, but now, they were completely inedible.
Honored Lady Jiang didn't appear as disappointed and distraught as usual. Instead, her gaze suddenly turned very chilly.
She sneered, "Does the Empress...intend to win at all costs?"
Hua Cha's eyes also reddened. "Master, should we..."
