The Crown Prince of the Chu Country was a handsome young man, no older than his twenties, yet he lacked the vibrant energy of youth. He gave off an impression of solemnity and caution.
This was something he had learned as a child!
Just as he was coming of age, his father ascended the throne. His world was turned upside down overnight. Yet his life didn't improve; on the contrary, he lost even more of his freedom.
From then on, people would even correct the way he walked. Over time, he became sensitive and overly concerned with the thoughts and opinions of others. He held himself to the standards of the Saints described in his tutors' books—or so he believed.
When he entered the wooden building's main hall, the busy clerks all rose at once to bow. In the mortal world, a Crown Prince commanded more prestige than a Cultivator.
He declined all offers to be led, climbing the stairs to the second floor and walking down the empty hallway by himself.
