After recovering from his initial shock, Li quickly composed himself, then gave a soft laugh.
"As expected of the Xiang Clan. Old ginger is still the spiciest. To be honest, I am Fusu, prince of the Empire."
His frank admission of his identity instead left the man and Xiang Ruo somewhat at a loss. Li's openness made it impossible for them to discern his intentions.
"Prince Fusu, since you did not conceal your identity, you must have something to rely on. But as a prince of the Empire, you would never betray it. In that case, why did you save fugitives of the Empire like us?" Unlike Xiang Ruo, the middle-aged man did not view matters so simply. The weight of years had filled his eyes with the light of wisdom.
Li looked at the middle-aged man with interest, then walked to a chair and sat down. "You know that even though I suspected your identities, I still saved you without hesitation. That means I am not your enemy."
"That is precisely what puzzles me." The middle-aged man glanced at Xiang Ruo and let out a quiet sigh. "If it were only myself, then no matter what identity you possessed, Prince, I would not fear you. But I have Ruoruo. Though you saved our lives, and by all reason our lives should belong to you from this day onward, please understand a father's heart. Until I know your purpose, I cannot possibly entrust Ruoruo to you without concern."
Li showed no anger at his words.
"The affection between father and child is human nature. Being born into the royal family, I rather envy such feelings. Xiang Ruo has a good father, so I have nothing to blame." Li waved a hand magnanimously, clearly having no intention of pursuing the matter.