Zhao Xuan glanced at Xue Qingqing beside him. The sly little girl from back then had reached eleven or twelve years of age and had naturally grown up quite a bit compared to several years ago.
Especially in height—she had grown nearly twenty centimeters taller and now carried herself with graceful composure.
The girl stood quietly to one side, seeming not to have heard their conversation and showing no reaction. Even when Zhao Xuan looked at her, she merely returned his gaze calmly.
"Tut..."
Zhao Xuan had a headache and could not help frowning. What kind of situation was this?
Seeing Zhao Xuan frown, Princess Xue Yue thought he was displeased, and her heart tightened with worry. If she incurred Zhao Xuan's displeasure, the loss would outweigh the gain.
A faint trace of disappointment flashed through Princess Xue Yue's eyes. She found it regrettable, but she still said without changing expression, "If Mr. Zhao is unwilling, then let us forget this matter."
"Mm."
Zhao Xuan made an almost imperceptible sound, putting the matter to rest.
He relaxed all over. He had never considered becoming someone else's teacher. Even his agreement to protect Xue Qingqing had only come because their chance meeting at the Royal Hunting Ground had made him feel that it was fate.
Hearing Zhao Xuan's response, Princess Xue Yue sighed softly and completely gave up on having Xue Qingqing take Zhao Xuan as her master.
"Since that is the case, I shall entrust Qingqing to you. The royal family will cover all of her living expenses and arrangements, so you need not worry. Furthermore, the royal family will pay you ten thousand Gold Soul Coins every month."
"Of course, our royal family greatly respects powerful soul masters. If you are willing to—"
"Grand Princess, there is no need