The welcoming banquet lasted from noon until dusk. Lan Tian kept a smile on his face for everyone, but he only drank in moderation, and no one dared urge him further. The atmosphere in the hall remained cheerful throughout.
Several times, Zhang Zhao wanted to use a toast as an opening to ask about the reason, but with so many people in the hall, he ultimately held back. He sat through the feast as though on a bed of needles.
Seeing that it was getting late, Lan Tian rose to his feet, cupped his fists, and said loudly, "It has been my great fortune to meet you gentlemen today. However, Lan's capacity for drink is poor, and I cannot keep you company any longer. I shall take my leave and rest first. Tomorrow morning, I will come to this hall on time to attend to government affairs."
"Where will Prefect rest? Would you like this old servant to arrange it for you? There are many unused halls in the royal palace." Zhang Zhao hurriedly stood.
Lan Tian waved a hand. "Lan is merely the Governor of Yang Province. To reside in the royal palace would truly be overstepping my bounds. Besides, there are only three of us, father and sons. This morning, I entrusted Hui Shu, Zhang Wen, with finding a small courtyard for us to stay in temporarily. It seems to be not far outside the palace. There is no need for Zibu to trouble himself."
"Ah, Hui Shu handles matters properly. Prefect will surely be satisfied when you see it." Zhang Zhao was briefly stunned, then cupped his fists and saw him off.
Zhang Zhao recalled that before the banquet, Lan Tian had spoken privately with Zhang Wen for a few moments. He had probably asked him to