Chapter 126 (1/2)

“Yes, you all must become strong. Children, you are the future of the Li clan.” Claire smiled at the young children. “Also, my strength is not at a level to be strived for. Your goal should not be me, but even stronger people. On this continent, powerful people are aplenty.”

“But… I was born with a weak body and cannot train in any techniques.” a weak voice said.

Claire turned around and saw a skinny little boy who was looking down cast.

“If you cannot succeed in martial arts, then find another path. Develop anything you are talented in, whether it be art, business, literature or forging.” Claire scanned the crowd and found that just as expected, some of the children had low aptitudes for martial arts. “Every person must find their own path and strive to walk it with their utmost strength. You will definitely be successful!” Claire understood that over the years, the Li clan had only focused on martial arts, neglecting other fields, so in the end, there was no one from the Li clan as officials at court, nobody managing business. Of course the Li clan would be in continuous decline!

The children fell into deep thought, pondering over Claire’s words. Although there were many children who did not understand, some children understood the full implications of Claire’s words.

Standing not far away, Li Yuewen and Li Mingyu also heard Claire’s words. They looked at each other and saw amazement in each other’s eyes.

“Perhaps our focus on martial arts was a mistake. Just as Claire said, they should focus on what they are talented at. That way, their achievements would be two-fold,” Li Minyu said with a heavy tone. They had always deemed martial arts supreme. The children first learned magic and Dou Qi, then literature. Art, poetry, sewing and so on were wrong paths to follow, completely useless.

“Now is not too late to change.” Li Yuewen smiled, gazing intently at Claire.

“But in any case, Claire still hasn’t thought of a way to deal with the crown prince. The crown prince actually invited her to the theater. It seems that this time, it will be hard to decline.” This was why they had come to find Claire.

“The martial tournament is soon.” Li Yuewen bit her lip, a bit hesitant as she said, “This time, the Hua clan will send Hua Yilin. Will Claire win?”

“I don’t know.” Li Mingyu’s complexion darkened. “The Hua clan has always been our enemy. They will definitely take this chance to harm us.”

Hearing this, Li Yuewen became worried. “Then isn’t Claire in great danger? Elder brother, I or you should participate instead.

“No need. It is for this very reason that Claire must participate.” Li Mingyu frowned. “Although Claire’s identity will be discovered sooner or later, they will not be able to figure out Lan Ling’s background. Also, they will be sure that Lan Ling and Claire have a close relationship. Because of the crown prince’s interest in Lan Ling, the Hua clan will not be able to kill Claire,” Li Mingyu analyzed.

Having heard this, Li Yuewen calmed down. “Whew, good.”

“What are you two chattering about?” Claire walked over slowly, frowning at the two siblings as she asked.

“We were discussing what a great babysitter or teacher you would be. Those children actually listen to you,” Li Yuewen joked.

“Since you heard what I said, you should implement what I said as soon as possible. Don’t bury their talents.” Claire could not say the chinese idiom “in every trade, a master appears”.

“You also heard what we said. For your own safety, you should have a good relationship with the crown prince. So, stunning Lan Ling, prepare yourself. The crown prince is coming to pick you up soon.” Li Yuewen smirked. Many people were trying to investigate Lan Ling’s background. Even some young men from the Li clan wanted to know where this relative of theirs had appeared from. But the stunning beauty was like the short lived blossom of the Aristolochia, never had appeared since, mysterious and beautiful, making many crazy for her.

“Just this once.” Claire waved offhandedly impatiently. “Once the matter of the right to forge for the army is settled, I will never appear as Lan Ling again.”

When the news that Lan Ling accepted the crown prince’s invitation to the theater, young noble flocked to the theater in droves. That day, the theater would reach the pinnacle of its existence.

The crown prince waited at the entrance for Lan Ling to appear. When she finally arrived, the crown prince froze with shock, astonishment flashing through his eyes.

Today, Lan Ling was wearing a lavender dress with long and sleeves rippling with the light breeze, giving off an exceedingly aloof air. Her supple long hair hung simply, like beautiful silk. She stood there silently, as if all the sun rays in the world were focused on her.

“Greetings, your highness.” Claire gave a slight curtsy.