An unfavored prince, apart from the grand assemblies held by the court, almost never has the opportunity to enter the Capital. Furthermore, Prince Jing might not value Li Taixing very much either, since he botched the task back then.
Therefore, Li Taixing must seek new supporters; otherwise, it would indeed be difficult for him to rise in rank.
Local officials seeking to return to the Capital have to pay a hefty price and also need connections in the court. Unless you're favored by the Emperor, that's naturally a different matter.
"He set off for Hangtian Prefecture early this morning, and even took a female companion with him."
Actually, Ding Shiliu found Mr. Min quite frustrating since the people in several State offices in Jiangnan were still suffering. Yet, this gentleman was indulging in revelries every night — utterly absurd.
Ha! Gu Chengyu didn't know what to say. He even brought a female companion along, was this a sightseeing tour?
