Chapter 50: The Meeting

The next day, Prince Jing reluctantly brought his son to Wanfu Pavilion for the meeting. Considering his status, he should have arranged the meeting at Wangxian Residence, the favored haunt of the noble elite. However, recalling the affiliations of the owner of Wangxian Residence, Prince Jing decisively avoided it, unwilling to be vexed by irrelevant matters.

General Xiao had already been waiting for some time. Yet, given Prince Jing’s rank, no matter how long the wait, he still had to greet them courteously with, “Not at all, I just arrived myself.” If he had the choice, he would avoid such interactions with royalty altogether.

The attendant gently pushed open the door of the private room, bowing respectfully with a welcoming smile as he ushered Prince Jing and his son inside. The very presence of these two had the owner of Wanfu Pavilion floating in ecstasy.

General Xiao stood to greet them, his demeanor composed and respectful.

Prince Jing was well-regarded in the capital for his affability and politeness, a stark contrast to some arrogant nobles who looked down on others.

“General Xiao,” Prince Jing began directly, “I greatly admire your character and abilities. I hope you can mentor my son. Treat him as you would any other young man—punish him as you see fit. If he errs, you may even beat him if necessary.”

Such a straightforward approach was entirely suited to General Xiao, a forthright and candid man. There was no need for excessive courtesy; addressing the issue head-on was more effective.

To gain General Xiao’s favor and bridge the gap between them, Prince Jing lowered himself and showed ample respect. He was, without doubt, a most exemplary father.

“Your Highness flatters me. It is my honor to teach the young lord,” General Xiao replied modestly.

However, who would dare punish the prince’s son? Before the prince could take issue, the Empress Dowager would not let it slide. Teaching a royal was ostensibly a position of glory and envy, but in truth, it was a thankless task fraught with potential trouble. General Xiao, for one, wished to avoid it if he could.

“I understand this request may put you in a difficult position,” Prince Jing continued. “Take a closer look at his potential first. If you remain unsatisfied, I won’t insist further.”

General Xiao then carefully examined Yun Yichen, circling him a few times, feeling his muscles and bones. His eyes grew brighter as he realized Yun Yichen possessed an exceptional physique for martial arts—long limbs, balanced proportions, and quick reflexes. A rare talent indeed.

Uncomfortable with being touched, Yun Yichen quickly dodged. Seeing this, General Xiao decided to test his skills. The two exchanged blows briefly. Though Yun Yichen was only seven years old and was subdued within three moves, his defiant “hmph” revealed his dissatisfaction.

This kid had spunk! Though his attitude was haughty and his personality less than agreeable, it was preferable to cowardice or timidity. Given the emperor’s decree and Yun Yichen’s martial potential, General Xiao ultimately agreed.

“I have two conditions,” General Xiao said, having already thought about this at home. He knew Prince Jing was free to accept or refuse but decided to try his luck.

“Please, go ahead,” Prince Jing replied with a smile. While others might jump at the opportunity to teach a royal child, General Xiao seemed almost reluctant, prompting Prince Jing to wonder if his son was really that undesirable.

Yun Yichen also noticed General Xiao’s lack of enthusiasm. For the first time, someone openly showed disdain in front of him, which left him annoyed. If anyone had the right to be dissatisfied, it was him, not this grumpy, ill-mannered old man!

“First,” General Xiao began, “I don’t wish to take on the formal title of mentor. Just treat me as an ordinary martial arts instructor. The young lord can address me as he wishes, even by my official rank, or not at all if that’s preferred.”

“In that case,” Prince Jing interjected, “how about letting the children call you ‘Old Master’? And there’s no need for you to call them by their royal titles either—just use their names.”

“Very well,” General Xiao agreed. Being straightforward by nature, he found lengthy titles cumbersome anyway.

Prince Jing personally poured tea for General Xiao, trying to ease the tension. Yun Yichen, however, remained sullen, likely still upset over General Xiao’s earlier disapproval. Father and son shared this trait—neither liked to suffer grievances quietly. They were an unexpectedly harmonious pair, perfectly suited for a master-student dynamic.

“Second,” General Xiao added, “I’m getting older and may lack the energy to teach for extended periods. A year or two would be manageable, but any longer might be too taxing.”

“Let’s set it at five years,” Prince Jing proposed, his tone accommodating.

General Xiao nearly choked on his tea. Five years! That would mean countless missed moments with his grandchildren. Could they not negotiate a shorter timeframe?

“You’re still vigorous and energetic, Old Master. I’m confident you’ll manage,” Prince Jing declared with finality, leaving General Xiao no room to argue.

They also settled on the learning venue. While Prince Jing initially suggested the palace, General Xiao vehemently refused, citing the numerous complications of palace life. They ultimately decided on the Imperial Academy, with lessons every other day for two hours each session.

Yun Yichen was irritated by General Xiao’s constant bargaining. This old man clearly didn’t want to teach them—how infuriating! Since General Xiao looked down on him, Yun Yichen resolved to make things equally difficult. Thus began the battle of wits between Prince Jing’s son and General Xiao.

“You may also bring your grandchildren to the academy to learn martial arts together,” Prince Jing suggested. He hoped his son could interact with the Xiao family children, believing their exemplary upbringing might influence Yun Yichen’s aloof demeanor.

General Xiao, thinking this was merely a polite remark, casually agreed. He had no intention of letting his grandchildren mingle with these royal scions. While some might dream of forging ties with the royal family, General Xiao had never entertained such ambitions.

As they parted ways, Prince Jing whispered something to General Xiao. Though his words were unclear, General Xiao’s occasional nods and glances at Yun Yichen betrayed the gravity of their conversation.

In the carriage ride back to the royal residence, father and son discussed the day’s events.

“Do you dislike General Xiao?”

“He dislikes me,” Yun Yichen replied. Did they really think he couldn’t see through such things just because he was a child?

“Perhaps he’s uncomfortable with our identities,” Prince Jing suggested.

Yun Yichen looked at him skeptically, waiting for further explanation.

“Do you know why I insist you learn from him?” Prince Jing asked, dropping his playful tone for a serious one.

Truthfully, Yun Yichen was curious. Why was his father so adamant about General Xiao?

“There are three reasons. First, he’s truly skilled. Rising from a common soldier to a second-ranked general in just a few decades, without any background or connections, is no small feat.

Second, his unique experiences—overcoming countless obstacles and injustices without being defeated—demonstrate unparalleled determination and resilience. I hope you can learn this spirit.

Most of your peers live lives of ease and idleness, achieving nothing. Do you want to be like them?”

Yun Yichen shook his head resolutely.

Prince Jing nodded in satisfaction.

“Third, I hope you can interact with the Xiao family children more.”

Yun Yichen gave his father a puzzled look. The first two reasons made sense, but why the third?

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