15 Drafted!

After mulling over the decision, Yi Chang finally agreed to send his son, Yi Tian, to the frontlines. "Yi Hong, in three weeks' time, Yi Tian will begin his blood qi training. I want you to personally oversee his progress. Ensure he is prepared to set foot on the battlefield, even if he doesn't actively participate."

Yi Hong nodded solemnly as Yi Chang continued, "Yi Tian was previously ordered to train Yi Long as punishment for his actions at the Jade Phoenix Pavilion. Now that he is to be sent to battle, inform him that Elder Feng will resume his usual duties as trainer."

Yi Hong rose and clasped his hands together, "Yes, Brother."

...

As I strolled along the palace's main road, the surrounding architecture and greenery seamlessly guided me towards the heart of the palace. An expansive open courtyard, adorned with meticulously laid stone tiles, stretched before me. Lush trees and bushes were strategically placed, enhancing the area's aesthetics while providing a serene atmosphere. At the courtyard's center stood a grand hall, positioned on elevated ground and accessible via an imposing set of stairs leading to the main entrance.

The hall's expansive roof extended beyond the building, supported by formidable stone pillars. The yellow tiles, arranged in sweeping eaves, exuded elegance and authority. The walls featured large lattice windows, their views obscured by luxurious silk curtains from within.

As I walked along the stone tiles of the open courtyard, I approached the bottom of the stairs and began my ascent. Halfway up, I heard the large doors creak open and close, revealing a burly man descending the stairs, clad in the same robes as Elder Feng.

Upon noticing me, the man's expression remained neutral. He didn't greet me, so I took the initiative, "Good afternoon," I said, offering a polite nod.

He returned the nod and replied, "Since you're here, I'll bring you to speak with your father."

Confused but not wanting to arouse suspicion, I simply nodded and smiled, "Okay."

The man turned and knocked on the imposing wooden doors of the hall. As I studied the doors, my gaze traveled upwards to a plaque displaying the hall's name: Yi Harmony Conclave Hall.

The door creaked open, and the servant behind it surveyed us before announcing loudly, "The Second Young Master has arrived!"

The large man strode into the hall, and I followed closely behind. Upon entering, I was immediately struck by the architectural splendor reminiscent of ancient China. Towering columns supported the high, intricately engraved ceiling, while the space was dominated by a massive table surrounded by men in grey robes. Beyond the table, a raised platform accommodated a smaller table with a man seated at its head, positioned toward the back of the hall. To his left sat a tall, slender man wearing the same robes as Elder Feng and the large man who had escorted me inside.

As the large man halted before the central table, he clasped his hands and reported, "Brother, Yi Tian was on his way up the stairs to the hall when I encountered him."

Seeing him clasp his hands, I also mimicked the action. I had guesses as to whom the men in the hall were. The hall was designed like a throne room, and the imposing figure at its heart must have been my father, the family head and as Elder Feng called him Yi Chang. He was a dignified man with a strong presence, wearing luxurious robes that accentuated his status. His eyes, sharp as an eagle's, seemed to pierce right through me. Those that were seated below him were probably family members with lower status.

Yi Chang nodded, acknowledging our presence, then addressed me, "Yi Tian, there has been a change in plans. Your training of Yi Long will be discontinued, and instead, you will begin your blood qi training under Yi Hong's supervision in three weeks."

I didn't know what 'plans' he was talking about, but I knew that I was training that little boy, my brother, Yi Long. I still nodded firmly and said, "Yes. Also, may I ask what you mean by plans?"

Yi Chang's stern gaze bore into me as he explained, "You are to be sent to the frontlines in four months' time as a figurehead. Your presence there will ease the burden on our family while the war continues."

The weight of his words settled heavily on my shoulders. To be sent to the battlefield, even as a figurehead, was no small matter. I had never killed anyone in my life, nor had I seen somebody be killed. Many thoughts ran through my mind as I gulped and replied, "Okay."

Yi Chang nodded in approval, "See to it that you prepare yourself. Yi Hong will ensure your training is thorough."

Yi Hong stepped forward and clasped his hands, "I will do everything in my power to prepare Yi Tian for the task ahead."

I couldn't help but feel a sense of apprehension, knowing that my life would change drastically in the coming months. I also thought of running away or finding a way not to go. But after a moment of contemplation, I knew that it was best to face my fears. This world was different from my modern, civilized one, and it was best not to run forever. As I left the Yi Harmony Conclave Hall that day, escorted by Yi Hong, I was filled with a mix of trepidation and determination.