Qi Like Tar

"Let's see. What else?" Father mused as he flipped through Paike and Guan Li's notes. "Your letter included a note from Elder Song, right? Let's see, mortal physics? Is she still on that? Huh, we can talk about that later.

"Kiddo," He said to Liming, "Let me see your arts."

Father watched as he put her through his paces. He had feedback, but it was generally complimentary. "You have done quite well to make it to Topaz already. I look forward to how your coup goes. Good luck, and remember that your enemies will not forget, and they will learn if you let them, so don't."

Liming nodded nervously. Paike understood why she was uneasy, because it sounded a lot like Father was telling her to kill off her rivals. He was always ruthless to their enemies, but this was a school of sorts that might be taking it a bit too far. Paike chose to interpret it as a way to ensure they were not in a position to return that year, even though Father was from an older, bloodier time.

"Now, Guan Li," Father said, shifting his attention. "My son tells me you have been a good friend to our family, so I'll give you some advice. Instruction is wasted on you, of course, but never do anything that doesn't make complete sense to you. Follow your instincts; you are heaven-blessed, and while things might not work out, the only way you are going to succeed is on your own path. Also, stop holding back advancement. There is no such thing as a perfect foundation, and you will learn how to fix it later. I want to see you at Middle Topaz in at least two weeks. Your lack of advancement is holding your research back."

"I understand, sir," Guan Li said.

Father nodded. "We can talk more then if you can accomplish that."

He then turned to Paike. "Let's head out. We can talk as we go."

"Is there anything I should bring?" Paike asked as he grabbed his staff from the corner.