As commander of the Shocking Star Guards, he had to drill five thousand soldiers every day and handle all manner of military affairs. In his spare time, he cultivated, talked with his mother, chatted with his grandmother, and squeezed in sword sparring with his aunt. His days were busy and fulfilling.
That day, he had just finished drilling the Shocking Star Guards and was about to return to his hall to rest when he spotted his mother, Dong Xuan, standing nearby and waving to him.
"Mother?" Lin Chen walked over. "What brings you here?"
Dong Xuan smiled. "I came to see you. Are you tired?"
Lin Chen shook his head. "No. Training the soldiers is my duty."
Dong Xuan nodded, her eyes brimming with pride. "You've grown up. You've become so responsible."
Lin Chen smiled. "That's because you taught me well, Mother."
Dong Xuan took his hand. "Come, take a walk with me."
The two strolled through the palace, chatting about everyday matters.
"Chen, is there anyone you like?" Dong Xuan suddenly asked.
Lin Chen froze, then blushed. "Mother, why are you suddenly asking about that?"
Dong Xuan smiled. "Because I care about you. You're old enough now. It's time you thought about marriage."
Lin Chen scratched his head. "I... I haven't thought about that yet."
Dong Xuan said, "Then give it some thought. If there's a girl you like, tell me. I'll help you weigh things up."
Lin Chen nodded, his face red.
Just then, Mother Lin's voice came from afar. "Chen! Come have some snacks!"
As though granted a royal pardon, Lin Chen hurriedly said, "Grandmother's calling me. Mother, I'll go first!"
With that, he hurried away.
Watching his retreating figure, Dong Xuan shook her head with a chuckle.
Three months passed in the blink of an