"Imperial Brother, you are mistaken," Pei Huaian said with a faint smile on his lips, his gaze resolute. "I have never coveted the throne, nor do I condescend to vie for it."
"There's no need for such modesty, my dear fifth brother; I will certainly support you well. That position can only be yours," Pei Jingyi swore confidently, ambition gleaming in his eyes.
"Fourth Imperial Brother, I never thought about fighting for the throne. Aside from convincing Prince Jing on your behalf, I won't do anything else," Pei Huaian reiterated his stance.
"Fourth Imperial Brother, I'm tired. I will take my leave first."
Pei Huaian no longer paid attention to Pei Jingyi, stood up, and left the tavern alone, leaving Pei Jingyi by himself.
Pei Jingyi frowned as he watched Pei Huaian's departing figure, his fists slowly clenching. A shadow of malice flitted across his eyes as he cursed under his breath, "You'll regret not drinking a toast; you'll be forced to drink a forfeit!"
——
