The Legend of Shen Li (English Translation of Yu Feng Xing 与凤行)

Chapter 8

The entrance door was closed. If one looked around, they would see that only Xing Yun, Shen Li, and the Crown Prince were the only ones in the courtyard. 

However, all three of them knew clearly, despite the emptiness, that there were the presences of many others within or around the courtyard.

The prince sat down on the stone chair, casually remarking, 

"To meet you really isn't easy, ah."

Xing Yun smiled, 

"It's still easier than seeing the Emperor himself."

Shen Li had lived a long life through her childhood in the battlefield, and often gone to the imperial court due to achievements from the military. When she meets officials that are bold and upright, she is fair. 

However, what she hates most are those lying and manipulative scoundrels, she really cannot deal with. With no skill at sweet talk and unable to curry favour, Shen Li chose to instead head inside the kitchen and search for the basin to scoop water for cooking.

"But for a commoner to be able to meet the Crown Prince, one must have some kind of ability, no? 

After all, it's said that you are able to connect with the supernatural, meet sprits and see the future. 

My heart desires to view how such things happen, to see the arrays at work. I do not know if you will show me?"

"I don't dare."

Seeing him disagree so quickly, the Crown Prince's face darkened. 

However, Xing Yun didn't seem to see as he continued innocently. 

"I really do not know what idea you are talking about. I merely don't like to divine for gold or anything, and I really can't see nor understand these supernatural beings you talk about. 

If the Crown Prince still doubts me, feel free to come over another time, or even just go and ask someone else."

"Oh?" The prince carried a mocking smile. 

"Your stubbornness is doing nothing but lowering your own value. 

Tell me, if you guess what is in my mind right now, I will give you riches and power! 

Even when I become the Emperor, you will receive the title of an Emperor's aide- Below one, above hundreds!"

"I refuse." 

Xing Yun shook his head.

"Think clearly- There's no one that would refuse this. 

What's there to lose when you gain riches and glory?" 

The prince inspected the courtyard. 

"This tiny shabby courtyard you have, if you accept my offer, just how easy would it be for this to change?"

Xing Yun just sipped his tea, no one able to decipher a hint of his thoughts. 

Then, he laughed. 

" You, the Crown Prince, keeps on bribing me with riches and titles like you've already became an emperor. 

Yet right now, you want to know when, and if you will really succeed the throne. 

After all, the current king is far past his prime, yet he is keeping a tight grip on this country; He is not even giving a hint of passing it to you. 

You demanded me to foretell your future, but it's not easy. 

However, I can tell you now, that if this place were to be destroyed, than something unfavorable will happen.