To secure Zhao Jing's position as the Champion Scholar, the Emperor had uncharacteristically argued with the Empress Dowager. Perhaps because of this, or perhaps because of Zhao Jing's naturally aloof and cold demeanor, the others felt a sense of awe and couldn't help but take a step back.
Zhao Jing supported the swaying Xu Yanhe. Frowning, he asked, "How much have you had to drink?"
"Not much," Xu Yanhe replied, his words slurring. "It was hard to turn down their hospitality, so I couldn't help but have a few extra cups."
The surrounding scholars rubbed their noses sheepishly, only now realizing they had gone too far. The banquet was only halfway through, yet they had already gotten him this drunk. Anyone who didn't know better might think they were seeking personal revenge.
Zhao Jing didn't say much. He simply called over a nearby eunuch. "My cousin is drunk. Please take good care of him."
