It was the birthday of the old Prince of the Helian Royal Mansion, and most of the Capital City's dignitaries and nobles had come to offer their congratulations. The street outside the Prince Mansion had been bustling with a constant stream of carriages since noon.
"Official Zhang, you've arrived."
"Official Li, after you."
"You're too kind. Let's go, let's go."
The court officials spoke in their customary formal tones, chuckling as they entered.
"Hey, look. Isn't that General Xiang?"
"I think it is. When did General Xiang return to the Capital City?"
"And he's holding a little girl. Whose child is that?"
Many people at the main gate stopped to stare, thoroughly puzzled.
As Xiang Minghou walked in holding Ye Qianning, the crowd immediately swarmed forward to greet him.
"General Xiang, long time no see."
"General Xiang, you returned to the capital without a word! We would have thrown a proper welcome banquet for you."
