Sun and Moon Sharing the Sky, Yin and Yang Sustaining Each Other!

At the National Preceptor's Residence.

In the snow, Little Doubao pulled Jiang Ning's and Ji Mingyue's hands together. As their palms touched, Ji Mingyue's cheeks flushed faintly, and her gaze flickered.

Jiang Ning looked at her gently. He did not pull his hand away, merely rubbing Little Doubao's head.

Everyone returned to sit beside the charcoal fire beneath the veranda.

Ji Minghao lifted the hot tea Qinghe had served. After a moment's thought, he said, "Brother Jiang, the palace is holding a year-end banquet tonight. Father specifically sent me to invite you and the National Preceptor. Many court officials and young heirs of the great families will be there. It should be quite a gathering."

Jiang Ning considered this briefly, then shook his head and declined politely. "Thank you for your kindness, Your Highness, and His Majesty's as well. But my cultivation has reached a critical point. I need quiet to make some adjustments, so I cannot attend. Please apologize to His Majesty on my behalf."

Ji Minghao had expected as much. He did not press the matter, only nodded. "Your diligence serves you well, Brother Jiang. I'll report your answer to Father."

He paused, then lowered his voice. "The Royal Capital may look peaceful, but undercurrents still run beneath it. Father's health is growing worse!"

At those last words, Jiang Ning nodded slightly.

"Thank you for the warning, Your Highness!"

Beside them, Ji Mingyue looked at Jiang Ning. A trace of disappointment crossed her eyes, but she quickly hid it and smiled. "Then cultivate well. Once the year-end festivities are over, come find me at the palace if you have time."

"I will," Jiang Ning said.

After a little more conversation, Ji Minghao and Ji Mingyue rose to leave. Jiang Ning and Su Qingying accompanied them to the gate