Jade Capital City, King Ning's Residence.
Li Qing, who had temporarily taken leave from the Grand Academy, made his way to this prince's estate with practiced familiarity.
"Li Qing greets the Princess Consorts and His Highness the Crown Prince!"
In the main hall inside the estate, several breathtakingly beautiful Princess Consorts were seated, examining Li Qing with curiosity.
Only the Primary Princess Consort among them knew Li Qing. She said softly, "Lord Li, there is no need for such ceremony. I will have to trouble you with this matter."
"Fufeng, hurry and greet your Uncle Li."
At the Primary Princess Consort's side, a young man whose features were still somewhat boyish respectfully bowed to Li Qing. His brows and eyes bore a slight resemblance to King Ning's, and he was quite handsome.
"Greetings, Uncle Li!"
"Your Highness the Crown Prince, please rise quickly. Li cannot bear such courtesy." Li Qing hurried forward and helped King Ning's only son to his feet.
"I will be troubling you for some time to come."
Upon hearing this, the Primary Princess Consort revealed a worried expression. She had kept close watch on the news from the Valley of Hundred Flowers, so she naturally knew how perilous it was there.
"Alas, I advised him time and again not to wade into the murky waters of the imperial throne, but he simply wouldn't listen."
"If anything should happen to him, what are we supposed to do?"
She was naturally speaking of King Ning. Li Qing did not dare offer any opinion. No matter what, it was their own affair; he had only come here to fulfill his duty of protection.
"Princess Consort, do not worry. King Ning has heavenly protection for good people. Nothing unexpected will happen to him."
King Ning possessed great talent and strategy.