Jiang Ziqi knew in his heart that the moment Huangfu Jing ascended the throne, their so-called friendship could no longer be maintained as before. If he were a commoner, perhaps it might be possible, with no desires or demands from the Emperor, to never stand on the opposite side of the Emperor, only to be a pure friend. However, as the sole heir of the Jiang Family, it was impossible. His relationship with the Emperor could not be so simple. If he did not maintain it properly and abide by his duty, the affection grown from childhood would sooner or later dissipate.
"Ziqi, you are always like this," Huangfu Jing said, setting down the vermilion brush in his hand with a casual and relaxed expression. "I've already said, we grew up together and our bond is different from others'. On informal occasions, there's no need for such ceremony. Just treat me as you would a friend, as before. Otherwise, it's just too estranged."
