The banquet was more than halfway through, and the next part would be the presentation of gifts at the Spring Banquet.
This segment, presided over by the Empress Dowager, involved bestowing valuable gifts on the families of high-ranking officials, demonstrating the Emperor's esteem for them.
It was also one of the methods used by the Emperor to win over his ministers.
The ministers and their families understood this, but under the Emperor's rule, receiving royal gifts was a great honor indeed.
Thus, this part of the banquet was a happy occasion for everyone.
Before this segment, guests at the palace could leave their seats to rest, and they were to return to the hall when the bell sounded.
Seeing that quite a few people had left the hall, Chu Nanli also intended to go out for some fresh air.
Just as she was about to get up, a hand pressed down on her wrist with such force, it seemed to be crushing her bones.
"Where are you going?!"
