Step by step, a gentle breeze leads to a smooth path

“Child, let me give you an example. The orange tree in my yard is full of oranges, which are sweet and sour and delicious. Everyone likes them. Do you think the orange tree would rather have its delicious fruit eaten by everyone, or leave it hanging on the branch until it rots?” Qian Shuzhen gave a simple example.

Ting Nan thought about it seriously for a moment, and seemed to understand a little. "Grandma, are you comparing my master to an orange tree? And I'm the one picking the oranges?"

"Heh, your master's family's reputation and resources are all in the oranges. He's probably very happy that his favorite and valued disciple is using those oranges." Qian Shuzhen nodded. "And then, you'll cultivate the orange trees well, right?"

"So you shouldn't let him down, right? What you need to do now is practice hard, learn all your master's skills, and surpass your master. Then promote his family's martial arts, and it would be even better if it could benefit the people. Providing him with a comfortable old age and a proper funeral is just the basics."

"Ah! Grandma, do you think I can do it?" Song Tingnan suddenly felt immense pressure.

"Whether it's okay or not, just do it. I trust your master's judgment." Ting Nan saw Qian Shuzhen roll her eyes. She only trusts her master...?

“Song Tingnan, no one is born strong. A person’s success is often the result of the support of several generations. That’s why people have always valued family. Don’t just think about using your own strength. You need to connect with the roots of the country, the roots of your ancestors, the roots of your family, and the roots of your elders. Nourish your roots. Be more filial and accumulate more blessings. Such blessings are great, and success will come naturally…” Qian Shuzhen’s words tonight would have a profound impact on Song Tingnan’s future.

"Grandma, although I don't quite understand yet, I will remember what you said carefully and think about it slowly. After all, I don't want to be an undefeated master," Ting Nan said.

"What nonsense!" Qian Shuzhen laughed and scolded, "You spend all your time reading random books. You should go to school instead."

"Grandma, you are like Bi Gan from 'Investiture of the Gods,' with a brilliant mind; Zhuge Liang from 'Romance of the Three Kingdoms,' with divine wisdom; and the Ruyi Jingu Bang from 'Journey to the West,' our family's pillar of strength..." Nan Cai showered Qian Shuzhen with compliments.

"Hmph!" Qian Shuzhen snorted coldly, "I almost did all that work for nothing and got scolded."

"Grandma, how could that be? I've always admired you and followed your example!"

With the burden lifted from his mind, Song Tingnan grinned and joked.

“You brat, you’ve actually done quite well yourself. You overcame your fear of your uncle, faced him directly, and boldly fought for yourself. When you were learning to swim and becoming his apprentice, you even had to ask me to speak to you.” Qian Shuzhen was very pleased with Tingnan’s growth.

"Thank you, Grandma! You've gone to so much trouble for me, but I don't want to bother you every time."

Now that Tingnan has learned martial arts, she doesn't seem to be as afraid of her uncle's stern face.

"Yes, negotiating with others requires confidence and skill. You need to understand what the other party cares about—reputation and money are things that no ordinary person is unmoved by. As long as it benefits both parties, everyone is happy. Also, you need to know the other party's shortcomings, weaknesses, or even vulnerabilities. Be polite first, then use force."

Qian Shuzhen's reading of the sage's book was truly worthwhile; Ting Nan nodded in agreement as he listened.

"You've spoken with your master, haven't you?" Qian Shuzhen asked. "Yes, Grandma, my master agreed."

"Yes, no wonder you're so confident. You were able to conduct your research in advance based on your uncle's personality, and you also found a solution beforehand with the help of your master. That's excellent! It gave your uncle no reason to refuse."

"Hehehe, thank you, Grandma! You're my support." Ting Nan shook Qian Shuzhen's arm and said coquettishly, "I was thinking of trying to persuade my uncle first, and then asking you to help me if I couldn't convince him."