The other concubines looked at one another, not daring to stay in the presence of Lady Gao any longer. Afraid that one wrong word might displease her and earn them a scolding, they decided it best to take their leave to avoid losing face for a lifetime.
In any case, Lady Gao was not likely to really have them take care of her, so they all rose to say their goodbyes.
Lady Gao did not keep them, merely nodding to let them leave of their own accord.
Left behind were Song Chongjuan and Song Chongxiu, the two sisters. From their demeanor, it seemed Madam and the eldest sister-in-law still had matters to discuss. They made an excuse about checking if the medicine was ready and then withdrew.
Thus remained Wang Yongzhu, Lady Gao, and Bai Su, plunged into a momentary silence with no one speaking.
