Chapter 784: Chapter 784: 774: Still Friends

Jiang Ning reached out and tapped her forehead, scolding, “Don’t talk nonsense outside. Your sister Huang Ying always praises you for being smart and having a steady temperament, that’s why I often bring you out. Don’t become like Chunlai.”

Xiachu hurriedly said, “It was my loose tongue; I won’t dare to do so again.”

“It’s not that you can’t speak, just be cautious and prudent with your words.” Jiang Ning gestured around her neck, lowered her voice, “This can cost you your life, you know!”

Xiachu’s face turned pale.

Jiang Ning laughed, “Look how scared you are.”

Xiachu shook her head vigorously, “I was out of line.”

As they walked out of Prince of Zhao’s residence, a carriage from the palace was waiting for them.

Those who recognized this carriage stayed far away, not daring to approach.

Jiang Ning glanced around and caught sight of a familiar figure, stopping in her tracks.

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Seeing her pause, Xiachu followed Jiang Ning’s gaze and immediately laughed, “Isn’t that Official He Tang?”

At the same moment, He Tang also saw her.

He hurried over, bowing, “This servant greets the Princess Consort.”

Seeing him wearing a somewhat worn official uniform, Jiang Ning laughed, “Are you here at Prince of Zhao’s residence for the wedding feast?”

He Tang replied somewhat helplessly, “The Prince of Zhao is getting married, and all my colleagues have come to congratulate him. It wouldn’t be good for me to be the only one absent. So I had to bring a modest gift and impose for a moment.”

“Why didn’t you go to the Jiang Family’s wedding feast?”

“I went.” He answered briefly, but said nothing more.

Jiang Ning laughed, “Did some dog-eyed person look down on you and not let you in?”

“Not really.”

“Tell me who it is; I’ll vent your anger.”

“It’s not that serious, Your Highness. Please don’t be angry; this is not a big deal.” He Tang spoke softly, “I’m used to it.”

Jiang Ning looked at his face for a moment and asked, “Is your mother’s illness better?”

“It’s better. Actually…my mother has always been guilty. If only at that time…”

“There’s no need to mention the past.” Jiang Ning interrupted gently, smiling, “He Tang, you are a talented person, and you will surely have a great future. Work well in the Imperial Academy, and I believe you will enter the Cabinet someday.”

“Your Highness is too kind, I am far from qualified.”

Jiang Ning smiled, “I meant, in the future.”

Xiachu whispered a reminder, “Master, we should return to the palace.”

“I know.”

Jiang Ning knew she was reminding her not to appear too close to He Tang.

In reality, there wasn’t anything important to say, but Jiang Ning couldn’t help herself but to speak with him a little more.

Every time she saw He Tang, she felt a serene warmth in her heart.

He Tang was an honest and unpretentious youth who treated others sincerely without any manipulation or scheming.

He had not yet been corrupted by the world of officials.

The original owner and He Tang were childhood sweethearts, growing up together. Jiang Ning knew very well that He Tang was fond of the original owner, and she, influenced by the original owner, did not repel him either.

In the eyes of others, she helped He Tang as a way to win over the rising talent in the Imperial Academy. But only she knew in her heart that she helped He Tang simply out of the desire for him to have a better life, without any ulterior motives.

As a person who knew his limits, He Tang heard Xiachu’s words and realized that he could not stay any longer. He bowed and said, “If the Princess Consort has no other matters, then I shall take my leave.”

As Jiang Ning leaned on the carriage, she said, “If you have any difficulties in the future, just send someone to bring me word. Don’t be shy – after all, we are still friends.”