The New Life of Amaya

Chapter 22

The night I met the Emperor I had followed Liu Xiaoshun to his home. That night Liu Xiaoshun told me that I would be staying with him in secret while he taught me to read, write, and speak Mandarin. My studies were all day with only some rest in the evening because not only was I learning the prior things I was also re-learning etiquette for this country I was now living in. 

Sighing I looked down at the books in front of me as my teacher asked me to recite what I just learned. I looked up at the teacher, closed the book, and recited the poem and the meaning behind the poem that I was able to remember.

"Well done, you got it correct." My teacher spoke.

"Really??" I shouted with excitement, "I did?"

My teacher laughed and nodded as I rose from the floor. I bounded through the home, courtyard, and soon to Xiaoshun who was handling family matters in the main gathering room. I'm still learning what everything is and where it is, but I at least know this. My teacher ran after me and many of the maids and other servants.

"Xiaoshun!" I screamed "Xiaoshun!" 

Since I learned Mandarin that is the only way I communicate with everyone. Xiaoshun, who was talking to an official from court, turned to look at me and wave the maids, servants and teachers off.

"What's wrong?" He asked. He never spoke my name and I've yet to receive a name because the Emperor and Xiaoshun agreed to discuss it with me. I think it was Xiaoshun's idea but I never questioned it. I just liked not hearing my name. Andreas and Red ruined that for me.

"I did it, Xiaoshun!" I smiled

Xiaoshun smiled at me patting my head, "Good job. I knew you could do it."

"I'm ready, Xiaoshun."

"Are you sure? Because after we expose you to our world life may be difficult as well as complicated and you'll need to watch your back." Xiaoshun warned.

"As long as you promise to still teach me how to fight with a sword, I don't mind. I'm willingly walking into this." I said with a smile.

"Go and get ready," Xiaoshun spoke and turned to the official, "Please leave and inform his majesty of our desire to meet with him."

I went back with my maids and allowed them to help me dress in a light pink dress and watched as they brushed my hair and put it up with pins. I smiled as they helped me prepare and looked at Rex who was laying on the floor staring at me.

"Rex, you stay put and relax. I will be okay." I said with a smile to encourage him.

"You're ready miss." One of the maids spoke. I need to learn their names next.

"Miss, the young master is here to pick you up" Another maid spoke coming in to my room.

"Thank you." I said rising up and leaving my room to meet Xiaoshun.

"Are you ready?" Xiaoshun asked.

I nodded and followed him to the carriage where he helped me up and climbed up himself this time. Most of the ride was silent until I decided to open my mouth.

"Xiaoshun.." I said getting his attention, "Thank you for everything."

"You're welcome. I'm happy I was able to help you."

"Xiaoshun, I hope I'm not being too forward, but I want to thank you for being like a brother for the past year."

Xiaoshun smiled, "I don't often take on honorary siblings, but you are a special case."

The carriage stopped and so did our conversation. Xiaoshun was first and soon he helped me down. Together we walked side by side up the steps to his majesty, the Emperor.