Imperial Advisor's Residence.
In the snow, Xiao Doubao pulled Jiang Ning's and Ji Mingyue's hands together. Their palms touched, and Ji Mingyue's cheeks flushed slightly, her gaze flickering.
Jiang Ning's expression was gentle. He did not pull his hand back, only lightly rubbed Xiao Doubao's head.
Everyone returned to the charcoal brazier beneath the corridor and sat down.
Ji Minghao picked up the hot tea Qing He had served, pondered for a moment, then said, "Jiang, the palace is holding a year-end banquet tonight. My father specially had me come to invite you and the Imperial Advisor to attend together. Many court ministers and disciples of Aristocratic Families will be present as well. It can be considered a grand gathering."
Hearing this, Jiang Ning thought briefly, then shook his head and declined politely. "Many thanks for Your Highness's and His Majesty's kind intentions. It is just that my cultivation has recently reached a critical point, and I need to calm my mind and adjust myself. It would not be convenient for me to attend the banquet. I ask Your Highness to convey my apologies to His Majesty on my behalf."
Ji Minghao had expected this and did not force him. He nodded and said, "brother Jiang is diligent. That is naturally the proper path. In that case, I will report truthfully to the emperor."
He paused, then lowered his voice. "The Royal Capital appears peaceful now, but undercurrents still remain. The emperor's health has grown even worse!"
Hearing this last sentence, Jiang Ning nodded slightly.
"Many thanks for Your Highness's reminder!"
At the side, Ji Mingyue looked at Jiang Ning, a trace of disappointment flitting through her eyes, but she quickly hid it and instead smiled. "Then you must cultivate properly. After the year-end passes, if you have time, come