The welcome banquet was held within the Baling Commandery Governor's Estate itself.
By now, the evening feast was prepared in the fragrant back courtyard of the estate. Though it was night, the entire courtyard was illuminated by rows of candles until it was as bright as day.
Nearly all of the hundred or so tables were filled. Serving maids and attendants wove through the rows, constantly bringing out dishes and refilling wine, while the air hung heavy with the aroma of food.
Chapter 100