When Fourth Master Xiao came out, Xiqiu left with him, and they parted ways at the door. He went to the outer courtyard, and Xiqiu went to the Grand Dowager's room.
Just as Fourth Master Xiao had said, the Grand Dowager's room was filled with laughter and joy. Madam Qian, Madam Ruan, and Madam Lou were all seated, along with the First Madam's family, and the First Young Madam Tang from the Chengyi Bo Mansion.
The Grand Dowager was wearing a dark red overcoat with a crane and longevity design, and a dark blue headband with cloud patterns. She sat with a broad smile on her face. To her left sat the Second Madam, and to her right was the First Madam. The Grand Dowager was talking to Madam Qian, "Why didn't you bring Qing along to play? And hasn't Jin grown taller? He must be nine years old now."
Madam Qian laughed and said, "You're right, he is nine this year. He's always so mischievous. If I brought him along, he would have turned this place upside down."
