"Concubine Alex, this is a beautiful party. It is all amazing, from the atmosphere to the people present here."
"But we cannot help but notice that the emperor is not here. Is he not going to come this time either?"
"What a shame! I was here to meet the emperor this time, but it looks like he is not here today either."
People continued to gossip while looking around for the elusive emperor's whereabouts.
It was a running joke in the Imperial Harem, and no one seemed embarrassed about it anymore.
The emperor would only attend a social event hosted by the concubines or ministers if it had a political impact. And even then, his presence would be brief and only to show that he was alive.
"The emperor might not be here today, but I am pleased to welcome flowers like you to my dinner party tonight. You all are just as precious to me as the emperor."
Concubine Alex spoke softly, but her voice carried on with conviction.
