To demonstrate his sincerity, Ouyang Xiong emptied his own cup of wine in one gulp. An Lan and Huo Zhanting exchanged a glance and followed suit, downing their drinks. Only then did Ouyang Xiong leave with Ouyang Xiu.
After they had left, An Lan and Huo Zhanting, taking advantage of everyone's distraction, discreetly spat the wine from under their tongues onto a handkerchief that was prepared earlier. Given the circumstances, especially their relationship with Xiao Yihe, they both had to remain cautious.
If they can avoid eating something, they will.
It's the same with drinking. If they can avoid it, they do.
Once Ouyang Xiong and Ouyang Xiu went to toast another table, Huo Zhanting, with a lowered voice, inquired about what had just happened with Ouyang Xiu. An Lan glanced at Ouyang Xiu and then shared the events that unfolded on the balcony in a hushed tone.
