Chapter 127 (2/2)

Claire now understood that the reason why the crown prince had invited her today was to pass on the message. The condition seemed both reasonable and unreasonable.

“Then please tell the Feng clan that the Li clan will definitely win at the tournament.” Claire’s voice was soft, but firm.

“I’m looking forward to it.” The crown prince smiled at Claire.

Claire smiled without a word.

The martial arts tournament would truly become a sight to behold and it was all because of a golden haired, green eyed girl!

Time flew by, two months passing in the blink of an eye. During those two months, the clothing store and smithy of the Li clan had caused a huge ripple in the capital. Enormous profits rolled in. The noble women flaunted the newest dresses bought from the Li clan’s clothing store while noble men compared swords forged at the Li clan’s smithy.

Fall arrived with leaves dancing and chilly wind blowing.

Claire leaned against a pillar silently, watching the children of the Li clan train at the training grounds some distance away. A faint smile appeared on her lips.

Tomorrow was the day of the national martial arts tournament. Anyone was allowed to compete as long they were under the age of twenty. No matter what background or gender, all could sign up. Those who displayed their talent could be recruited by the empire, so many were willing to give it a try.

“Claire…” Li Yuewen’s called out from behind Claire.

“Cousin Yuewen, I will definitely win on behalf of the Li clan. Then I will go home.” Claire didn’t turn around, her voice soft as she spoke. She did not shift her gaze from the children.

“Yes…” Li Yuewen’s voice was quiet, carrying a hint of sadness.

“Don’t worry, I will definitely win.” Claire turned around, smiling at Li Yuewen.

“Claire, you must always remember that this is also your home. Our doors are always open for you. You can return whenever you want.” Li Yuewen gazed at Claire. Unexpectedly, her eyes were flickering.

“Cousin Yuewen, are you crying?” Claire chuckled softly.

“You damn brat!” Li Yuewen grabbed Claire’s arm. Claire laughed. Just when she was about to struggle, Li Yuewen suddenly pulled her into her embrace.

Claire was stunned. She stood there silently, not moving.

Li Yuewen hugged Claire tighter, mumbling, “Be careful. You must definitely be careful tomorrow. You must be safe and sound, do you understand?”

Claire lowered her gaze, a hint of a smile on her face, her heart warm.

“Yes, Cousin Yuewen, don’t worry. I will definitely be fine,” Claire pledged solemnly.

The next morning, there was a clear sound of a bugle, the long note heard across the entire capital.

The tournament would take place at the large square in front of the palace. The constructed stadium had a large expanse for a stage, thick and sturdy. Stands had been constructed long ago for viewing. The highest stand was for the royal family then the officials and nobility. The ordinary stands farthest away were naturally for the commoners. Currently, the square was already quite full. The contestants were to draw lots to determine the preliminary line up.

With too many contestants each year, the competition always started with a mass elimination. Competitors of the same type of lots would go up and fight against many with the last standing as the winner who would proceed to the next round. A barrier would be erected around the stage so the audience would not be accidentally injured.

Claire and all the other contestants sat quietly at their designated spots, waiting. Meanwhile, Li Yuewen and Li Mingyu were sitting at the stands of the arena, watching.

Claire suddenly felt an intense gaze. She turned to see Feng Yixuan watching with a fiery gaze, eyes fill of unconcealable delight. He had wanted to get up and go over many times, but was stopped by Shui Wenmo, who was next to him. Shui Wenmo would always mumble something that would cause Feng Yixuan to sit back down angrily. Reading Shui Wenmo’s lips, Claire understood. Shui Wenmo had said, ‘don’t forget what you promised your Ma’.