The New Year's Eve banquet is a celebration for all officials, therefore the seating doesn't follow any hierarchical rules, and the seating is more casual.
Wen Wan brought Jinbao over and saw Lin Xiaoyue pulling Ah Nuan, standing not far away talking with other noblewomen. She wanted to go over to ask about Amuer's situation, but saw someone beside her waving at her.
Wen Wan turned her head and met with the smiling face of the Duchess Liu, who was accompanied by Mrs. Xiao Liu.
Mrs. Xiao Liu herself doesn't have a rank, and normally wouldn't be able to attend a palace banquet, but today's event is grand, and maids and servants are not allowed. The Lu Family's Heir's wife was sent off to Suzhou, presumably to take care of the elderly, hence Mrs. Xiao Liu was allowed to accompany.
Seeing the Lu Family, Wen Wan's mind involuntarily recalled the humiliation she suffered at their house during the Duke's birthday banquet. She stood there without moving.
