The morning after.

THE IMPERIAL ACADEMY.

"...My problem is with the culprit and not with you," Nie Shaoqing said without any single change in his expression. 

Xiang Yize's brow wrinkled slightly, this was not the reaction he had expected. He tilted his head to the side, this did not seem like the Nie Shaoqing he had studied with for over five years.

He opened his mouth to say more but he never got any word out before Nie Shaoqing said, "Please don't worry yourself with my matters, Your Highness".

He glanced up at the clear night sky and then at the seventh prince, "It is getting late and I do not want to keep your highness waiting. I will now take my leave".

Xiang Yize shut hus mouth and with a puzzled expression, watched the taller man leave. His attendant Chuanli narrowed his eyes as Nie Shaoqing left.