It was the first day of the Lunar New Year.
Close relatives were visited first.
Although Xiao Mo now held the same standing as a legitimate son, and Zhou Ruoxi was no longer a concubine,
Xia Qingke, the first wife of the Xiao Manor, was still its mistress, no matter what.
And according to the Qin Kingdom's customs, Xiao Mo still needed to pay her a visit.
After Xiao Mo and Qin Siyao had breakfast in their courtyard, they went to visit the mistress of the Xiao Manor.
"Mo pays his respects, Eldest Mother."
"Siyao pays her respects, Eldest Mother."
Upon arriving at Xia Qingke's courtyard, Xiao Mo and Qin Siyao bowed.
"There is no need for such formality, Frost King, Your Highness. Please, take a seat." At the sight of Xiao Mo and Qin Siyao, Xia Qingke hurried forward and helped them straighten up. "Huan Ying, bring some tea and refreshments."
"Yes... Madam."
Huan Ying quickly withdrew and brought pastries out of the house.
Xia Qingke brewed tea for the two of them herself.
Xiao Mo looked around the vast courtyard. Only Xia Qingke and her maid Huan Ying lived there.
The more Xiao Mo thought about it, the more he felt sorry for Xia Qingke.
Although she was Prince Zhenbei's consort and held a distinguished position, her second son had passed away, while her eldest was now wholly devoted to cultivation. He had not even managed to return for the New Year, sending only letters.
Prince Zhenbei, meanwhile, was often stationed at the frontier, and every return home was hurried.
Xiao Mo glanced at Xia Qingke again.
The woman who had once been so young now had a few white strands among her hair.
"Eldest Mother, we prepared some New Year gifts. I hope you'll accept them."
Xiao