Ning Chen's mercilessness had left Liu Ruoxi in utter despair. Once a chess piece no longer had any value to exploit, who would care whether it was made of gold or silver?
Xia Mingri watched quietly without saying a word. It was a pity to discard this chess piece, but the target was the Marquis of Knowing Fate. If he could be won over so easily, Xia Mingri would have been the one to grow suspicious.
In the current imperial capital, the greatest variable was the Marquis of Knowing Fate before him. The forces in Xia Mingri's hands still lagged somewhat behind the Third Prince's. Winning Ning Chen over was the most effective course.
"Tenth Prince, you did not invite me here over such a trivial matter, did you? If you have something to say, speak plainly." Ning Chen picked up his wine cup and asked calmly.
Xia Mingri no longer beat around the bush. "Marquis of Knowing Fate, I need your assistance."
"A reason," Ning Chen said blandly.
"The Marquis of Knowing Fate must ultimately choose between me and Third Brother. The current situation does indeed give Third Brother a slight advantage, but with your intelligence, Marquis, you will surely understand the difference between adding flowers to brocade and sending charcoal in the snow." Xia Mingri spoke solemnly.
Ning Chen took a sip of wine. As it slid down his throat, it brought a trace of scorching heat that left one intoxicated. "Tenth Prince, you have only said half of it. The other half is that choosing you carries a greater risk of failure than choosing the Third Prince. You should know what failure would bring. Why should I take such a risk?"
"Since ancient times, wealth and honor have been sought amid danger. Marquis of Knowing Fate, you