Jiang Gaoyi hadn't risen through the ranks so quickly on luck alone. He and Zheng Xiu knew each other well, but a prince was a prince. Jiang Gaoyi was scrupulous about separating public and private affairs; he understood the distinction perfectly.
Upon entering the reception hall, Jiang Gaoyi found a blind man dressed like a street Actor sitting inside. The ghastly state of the man's face made his heart lurch. Utterly baffled, he nonetheless immediately bowed low.
"Your humble servant, Jiang Gaoyi, greets the Prince."
"Lord Jiang, there is no need for such ceremony. We are old acquaintances. In private, you may treat me as an old friend."
"That would be improper! The Red King's station is far too noble. I would not dare to overstep my bounds." Jiang Gaoyi glanced at the blind man, his refusal firm and formal.
Despite his refusal, he secretly switched his form of self-address from "your humble servant" to the more personal "I."
"Lord Jiang, please have a seat."
