Chapter 23: Lost Again in the Maze

The urge to kill was indeed there—Li Xian would not deny it. Given Ming Chongyan’s outrageous conduct in his previous life, Li Xian had truly harbored murderous intent toward him. Yet, as for how to act on it, Li Xian had never settled on a concrete plan; it was more a fleeting impulse than a calculated scheme, never deeply considered. To his surprise, this well-concealed thought was exposed in a single sentence by Li Chunfeng. For all that Li Xian was a master of intrigue, even he was shaken, his hand trembling so that tea spilled over the table, soaking it entirely.

“Ah! The water’s hot. I lost my grip—please forgive me, please forgive me.”

No matter the reason, murder is never a thing to be spoken of lightly, let alone to outsiders. Even with trusted confidants, such thoughts are best left unspoken. Thus, though Li Xian’s heart was in turmoil, he refused to admit anything aloud, instead pretending to have scalded his hand and fussing over it.

“If Your Highness finds it hot, perhaps it is wise to pause a moment?”

Li Xian’s attempt to deflect was all too obvious, and a seasoned figure like Li Chunfeng would hardly be fooled. Yet Li Chunfeng did not point it out, merely replying in a tone laced with double meaning.

“Of course, of course. Your tea is excellent, Grand Historian Li. I was merely greedy for another cup—please excuse my lack of restraint. Ah, yes, earlier in the rear garden I saw a dazzling light. Was it you crossing swords with Ming Chongyan?”

Eager to move away from any discussion of murder, Li Xian seized upon a new topic after a few perfunctory words.

“Indeed,” replied Li Chunfeng, stroking his white beard with a sigh, “though young, Master Ming’s skill is truly remarkable. At his age, I was not half as accomplished. The younger generation is to be admired.”

“You are too modest, Grand Historian Li. All under heaven know you are not only versed in astronomy and the mysteries of yin and yang, but also a peerless swordsman. I have long admired you.” Li Xian, after offering his compliments, suddenly straightened and knelt, bowing deeply. “I have always been frail and know my talents are ordinary. Yet my heart yearns for the Way. Today I have come uninvited to beg Grand Historian Li to accept me as a disciple, to learn the art of the sword and thereby strengthen my body. I hope you will grant my earnest wish.”

At this, Li Chunfeng fell silent, stroking his beard in deep thought for a long time, making Li Xian anxious but unable to press further. He could only watch with hope in his eyes.

“Swordsmanship is a minor art. It may serve to strengthen the body but is not the true path. If Your Highness wishes to learn, I have no objection, but I am not fit to be your teacher.”

After much pondering, Li Chunfeng finally spoke, but his words were like a dousing of cold water, leaving Li Xian deeply disappointed.

“Since you say so, Grand Historian, I will not force the matter. Perhaps the time is not yet right. I shall take my leave for now and return another day to seek your instruction.” Though disappointed, Li Xian would not breach etiquette after being gently refused; he forced a wry smile and prepared to leave.

“Please wait, Your Highness.” Seeing Li Xian about to depart, Li Chunfeng raised a hand. “I am not withholding for selfish reasons, but simply lack the ability. To be candid, I have prepared my resignation to be submitted at the start of the year, wishing to retire due to age and frailty. I have little time left, and it would not do to delay you.”

Li Xian was taken aback. In his previous life, he had never paid much attention to Li Chunfeng, and could not recall when he had died. Hearing these words, which did not seem to be mere courtesy, he was left momentarily speechless.

“My path does not align with yours, Your Highness. If you truly wish to pursue the martial way, there is one in the court who would make an excellent teacher.” Seeing Li Xian’s confusion, Li Chunfeng offered a hint with a gentle smile.

“Oh? May I ask for your guidance?”

Li Xian’s desire to study the martial arts was less about the art itself and more a show to the world that he had forsaken scholarly pursuits for the sword, to prove he had no designs on the throne. As for seeking out Li Chunfeng, it was simply that if he must find a teacher, he might as well seek the strongest. If he could gain some real skill in the process, all the better. Swordsmanship itself was not essential. Thus, when Li Chunfeng offered to recommend someone, Li Xian’s interest was piqued and he eagerly pressed for details.

“The Left Adjutant of the Left Vanguard Guard, Li Boyao, would be a worthy instructor.”

At this unfamiliar name, Li Xian was at a loss. In this early Tang era, though many great generals had passed, there still remained such luminaries as Li Ji, Su Dingfang, Cheng Zhijie, and Xue Rengui. Had Li Chunfeng suggested any of these, Li Xian would have been neither surprised nor likely to act on it—these were all pillars of the court, and as a prince, he could not take one as a master without the emperor’s decree. Nor would it be wise to do so. Still, if he could, he would have welcomed such a teacher. But that did not mean he would accept just anyone; no one wishes to be trained by the unworthy.

Li Chunfeng smiled and added, “Though Li Boyao’s post is low, he possesses real skill. His father is Li Deqian, the Deputy Craftsman of the Works.”

“Descendant of Duke Wei?” Li Xian immediately understood—Li Boyao was none other than the grandson of the great general Li Jing. The thought of Li Jing’s legendary prowess stirred his heart, but he knew this would not be easily accomplished. The Li clan had many in office, but their family was strict, rarely socialized with other officials, and never involved themselves in struggles for imperial succession—a rule set by Li Jing himself. Whether during the Xuanwu Gate Incident or later disputes for the throne, Li Jing remained neutral, and his descendants followed suit. Clearly, it would not be easy for Li Xian to become a disciple of the Li family.

“Every sip and morsel is predestined. Though one may defy fate, to change destiny is to invite uncertainty—success or failure are hard to foresee!” As Li Xian fretted over his quest for a master, Li Chunfeng suddenly sighed with feeling.

What? Has this old man really seen through my secret? Damn! Even Ming Chongyan seemed to have his doubts earlier—could it be that the word “rebirth” is written on my face? Rebirth was Li Xian’s deepest secret, never to be shared. Now, hearing Li Chunfeng’s words hinting that something had changed in his fate, Li Xian was alarmed. Though his face remained composed, cold sweat broke out on his forehead.

“What do you mean, Grand Historian? Is there something amiss with me?” Despite his shock, Li Xian’s experience allowed him to keep calm outwardly. Smiling to cover his unease, he simply asked the question directly.

“There is something unusual, but whether it is good or ill is not for me to say.” Li Chunfeng made no attempt to hide it, stroking his beard as he spoke. “I know a little of yin and yang. To follow the heavens is possible; to defy fate is difficult. Your Highness’s broad and full brow is a sign of great fortune, but the horizontal lines between your brows are marks of hardship—you will face many trials. Now, however, a new vertical line has appeared, indicating a destiny with war and bloodshed. Whether this is auspicious or ominous, I cannot say. I lack the ability to judge and dare not speak rashly.”

Good or bad fortune, who can say? My fate is mine to command, not heaven’s! Li Xian was no longer the weak and timid youth of before. Facing the mysteries of fate, he refused to drift with the current, nor would he resign himself to it. Instead of fear, Li Chunfeng’s ominous words only stirred his fighting spirit. He sat up straight, clenched his teeth, and burst into loud laughter, his voice full of defiance and heroism.

“Your Highness’s spirit is admirable,” said Li Chunfeng, clearly understanding the meaning behind Li Xian’s laughter. He sighed, then produced a small box from somewhere unknown, stood up, and respectfully offered it to Li Xian.

“Grand Historian, what is this?” Li Xian, just finished laughing, was caught off guard by the presentation of the box. He did not reach for it immediately, but asked in confusion.

“You need not worry, Your Highness. The box is sealed. One day, if someone comes to you with the key, it will open.” Li Chunfeng did not elaborate, leaving the matter a mystery.

“A gift such as this, I dare not refuse. Your kind intention, Grand Historian, I accept with gratitude.” Li Xian’s mind worked swiftly; convinced of Li Chunfeng’s good will, he no longer hesitated, taking the box with both hands and bowing respectfully.

“Very good.” Li Chunfeng, seeing Li Xian accept the box, looked as if a great weight had been lifted, nodding with relief. “Remember, Your Highness, one’s appearance reflects the heart. If you remain upright and care for the people, all will go well. I have nothing more to say—Your Highness should go.”

“Thank you, Grand Historian, for your guidance. It grows late—I take my leave.” Though countless questions remained, Li Xian knew better than to overstay now that he had been dismissed. He stood, bowing slightly with the box in his hands, and took his leave.

“Safe travels, Your Highness. I will not see you out. Should you face grave danger in the future, remember to head north.” Li Chunfeng did not try to keep him, but as Li Xian rounded the screen, he suddenly offered this cryptic advice.

Grave danger? Head north? The words struck Li Xian as odd, and he stopped in his tracks, glancing back at Li Chunfeng in confusion, wanting to ask but uncertain where to begin.

“Yu Ji, see His Highness out.” Li Chunfeng, clearly unwilling to give Li Xian the chance to ask further, raised his voice before Li Xian could speak, then bowed and turned back to his room.

“Your Highness, this way please.” Before Li Xian could recover, the young acolyte rushed forward, gesturing with a polite invitation to the door.

“Thank you.” With things as they were, Li Xian saw there was no more to be learned from Li Chunfeng and did not insist. He could only shrug helplessly and, accompanied by Yu Ji, left the Li residence. His steps were as steady as ever, but his heart was filled with far more confusion than when he had arrived.