Fan-made guide — content verified from public playthrough sources. Road to Empress is © New One Studio.
Road to Empress

Chapter 2: A Frightful Banquet

The emperor hosts a grand banquet, and every concubine must attend. Your dress choice alone splits the story into two distinct paths. QTE sequences test your re…

Survival Rate62%
Choices12
Death Branches3
Favor CheckLi Zhi, Li Tai
QTEYes

Synopsis

The emperor hosts a grand banquet, and every concubine must attend. Your dress choice alone splits the story into two distinct paths. QTE sequences test your reflexes as assassination attempts and political traps unfold around the banquet table.

Choice-by-Choice Walkthrough

Choice 1

Which dress do you wear to the banquet?

The crimson gown — bold and unforgettable
Show outcome
SAFE

You catch Li Tai's eye and draw political attention — Red Path begins

The jade-green dress — elegant and understated
Show outcome
SAFE

You blend in and observe — Green Path begins, different information available

Choice 2

During the banquet, Li Tai approaches you. How do you respond?

Engage in conversation — he's the emperor's favored son
Show outcome
RISKY

Li Tai Favor +1, but Empress Wang notices your ambition

Excuse yourself politely
Show outcome
NEUTRAL

You avoid making enemies but miss a powerful connection

Choice 3

QTE: An assassin lunges toward the emperor. React!

Shout a warning
Show outcome
SAFE

The emperor acknowledges your loyalty

Freeze in shock
Show outcome
DEATH

The assassin notices you — bad ending triggered

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the dress choice in Chapter 2 change the entire game?

The Red/Green dress choice creates two parallel storylines that re-converge around Chapter 5-6. The Red path gives you more political visibility and Li Tai interactions; the Green path gives you more information and Li Zhi moments. Neither locks you out of the true ending.

How many QTE sequences are in Chapter 2?

There are 2-3 QTE sequences depending on your path. The banquet assassination is the most critical — failing it can trigger a death branch. Practice your reflexes.

Can I survive the banquet with low Li Zhi favor?

Yes, but it's harder. Li Zhi's favor gives you a safety net during the chaos. Without it, you need sharper choices to navigate the political traps.

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Ch1: The Unfathomable Rear Palace
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Ch3: Crown Prince's Palace Enigma