“Your Highness,” one of his trusted men, Wu Chen, announced as he stepped into the room. His voice was steady, carrying the formality that the moment demanded. “I have news from the palace. A maid has come to inform us that the sovereign consort has been invited to the tea party hosted by Her Majesty the Empress.”

Helan Li Qiang looked up from the papers, his interest piqued. “The empress is hosting a tea party?” he echoed, setting down the documents. “What is the occasion?”

“It appears to be a gathering to discuss various matters, though the true intent often lies beneath the surface,” Wu Chen replied, his expression serious. “You know how the empress enjoys her gatherings—there is usually a political angle, and she uses them to gauge alliances and exert influence.”

A thoughtful frown creased Helan Li Qiang's brow. “And Ning’er is to attend?” 

“Yes, Your Highness,” Wu Chen confirmed, watching for his reaction. “It may be an opportunity for the empress to further her agenda, especially given the recent tensions between the demon and human factions. She may wish to use Ning’er to make a statement of unity or dominance.”

Helan Li Qiang's jaw tightened as he considered the implications. “Ning’er has enough on his plate without being pulled into more courtly schemes,” he said, a hint of protectiveness lacing his voice. “We cannot allow the empress to manipulate him for her own gains.”

“Indeed, Your Highness,” Wu Chen agreed. “However, we must also recognize that declining an invitation from the empress could have its own consequences. It is a delicate balance.”

Helan Li Qiang leaned back in his chair, the weight of leadership pressing down on him. “I will speak with him before the tea party. He should be prepared for what lies ahead and understand the nature of these gatherings. I want him to navigate the situation with awareness, not as a pawn in someone else’s game.”

Wu Chen nodded, respecting his resolve. “Shall I arrange for you to meet him, Your Highness?”

“Yes, please do,” Helan Li Qiang replied, his tone firm. “We need to ensure that he understands both the social implications and the potential dangers of the court. I will not let anyone use Ning’er against his will.”

As Wu Chen left the study to carry out the prince's orders, Helan Li Qiang stared out the window, the soft glow of the setting sun casting a warm hue across the courtyard. His mind was a flurry of thoughts about the upcoming tea party and the challenges it would bring. Above all, he remained resolute in his commitment to protect Shangguan Ning from the treacherous currents of the palace.

In the dim light of his study, Helan Li Qiang leaned back in his chair, lost in thought. The weight of the impending tea party loomed over him like a dark cloud, and the implications for Shangguan Ning filled his mind with unease. The court was a place of intrigue, and he had witnessed firsthand how easily relationships could be manipulated for personal gain. He knew that the empress was skilled at weaving webs of influence, and he couldn’t shake the feeling that she intended to use Ning’er as a pawn in her grand design.

As he waited for Wu Chen to return, Helan Li Qiang felt a surge of determination. He could not allow Shangguan Ning to be caught in the crossfire of court politics. Their relationship, still in its early stages, was fragile, and he wanted to ensure that Ning’er understood the stakes involved.

After a few moments, Wu Chen re-entered the study. “Your Highness, I have arranged for the sovereign consort to meet you in the garden. It seems he could use some fresh air after his earlier meetings.”

“Thank you, Wu Chen,” Helan Li Qiang replied, rising from his seat. “Lead the way.”

The two made their way through the winding corridors of the palace, the ornate decorations and lavish tapestries reflecting the wealth and power of the demon empire. The air was heavy with the scent of blooming flowers, a stark contrast to the tension that filled Helan Li Qiang’s heart. As they approached the garden, he felt the anticipation building within him. He needed to approach the conversation delicately, ensuring that Ning’er felt supported rather than overwhelmed.

Stepping into the garden, Helan Li Qiang was greeted by the sight of Shangguan Ning sitting on a stone bench beneath a blooming cherry blossom tree. The delicate petals fluttered gently in the breeze, creating a serene atmosphere that seemed to momentarily shield them from the chaos of court life. Shangguan Ning looked up as Helan Li Qiang approached, a soft smile gracing his features.

“Ning’er,” Helan Li Qiang greeted, returning the smile as he took a seat beside him. “I hope you’ve been enjoying some peace before the storm of the tea party tomorrow.”

“I can’t say that I’ve had much of that since arriving at the palace,” Shangguan Ning replied with a light chuckle. “But this garden does have a certain charm. It’s lovely here. I know the tea party will be filled with intrigue.”

Helan Li Qiang studied him closely, noting the way his eyes sparkled with life despite the underlying tension. “I’m glad you’re aware of what’s at stake. The empress is a master of manipulation, and gatherings like these often serve her interests more than anyone else’s. You may find yourself being used as a symbol of unity or as leverage in political maneuvering.”

Shangguan Ning nodded, his expression serious. “I understand the implications, Li Qiang. It’s precisely why I’m feeling anxious about it. I know how the empress operates, and I’d rather not be a pawn in her game.”

“You don’t have to be,” Helan Li Qiang assured him, his voice steady. “I want you to know that you don’t have to do anything you’re uncomfortable with. You’re not just a piece on a chessboard; you’re my partner, and I value your autonomy.”

Shangguan Ning’s heart warmed at his words. “Thank you, Li Qiang. It means a lot to know that I have your support. I appreciate your willingness to discuss the realities of the court with me.”

Helan Li Qiang smiled softly, feeling a sense of camaraderie growing between them. “We’re in this together, Ning’er. I will always have your back. Just remember to stay true to yourself, and don’t lose sight of your own desires.”

As they sat together in the garden, the atmosphere shifted from tense to comforting. They exchanged stories and laughter, the weight of impending obligations momentarily forgotten. Helan Li Qiang found himself appreciating not only Shangguan Ning’s strength but also his vulnerability. 

Eventually, the sun dipped lower in the sky, casting a golden glow over the garden. “I should probably get back to my work,” Helan Li Qiang said reluctantly. “But remember, whatever happens at the tea party, you are not alone.”

“I will keep that in mind,” Shangguan Ning replied, his gaze steady and reassuring. “And thank you for believing in me, Li Qiang. I truly appreciate it.”

With that, they rose from the bench, and Helan Li Qiang walked Shangguan Ning back to his chamber. As they reached the door, the weight of the evening settled in again, a reminder of the complexities awaiting them. But for that moment, they both felt a sense of solidarity, ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead, together.