System Shop.

Qin Hai chuckled, brushing aside the tension with an airy wave of his fan.

"Haha, don't be silly," he said with a bright laugh. "I was just joking. How could I say something like that during a celebration."

The laughter rang clear, but not everyone smiled.

Standing a pace behind him, Teacher Ian remained still—face unreadable, eyes laced with quiet exhaustion.

He nodded slowly, but said nothing. His silence spoke volumes: he had long since tired of the prince's games.

Across from them, Xie Lin curtsied with practiced elegance. She lifted her skirt slightly and bowed her head.

"Xie Lin greets His Highness, the Crown Prince."

The entire courtyard remained silent—holding its collective breath in reverence and calculation.

Fang Yuan's expression didn't shift. His lips tugged upward ever so slightly.

"Haha… That was a nice joke, Your Highness," he said, tone light, though no laughter reached his eyes.