Tides of the Hidden garden

Master Jiang Xian led Zian through a vast courtyard surrounded by training grounds and a small yet serene library. The area bustled with activity as students practiced swordsmanship, their movements sharp and disciplined. The clinking of blades and the occasional laughter echoed in the air, blending with the rustling of the nearby trees.

Jiang Xian placed a hand on Zian's shoulder and smiled warmly. "This is where I train my students. You can stay here for a few days if you like. I've got plenty of room."

Zian looked around, feeling a mix of awe and unease. He had never seen such a place before, and the sight of the disciplined students made him wonder if he could fit in.

Master Jiang continued, his tone lighthearted, "You know, you remind me of my own son. He's about your age but much more mischievous. If he troubles you, don't take it to heart. He's a good boy at heart, even if he can't sit still for a moment."

Zian nodded, listening attentively. He was about to speak when Jiang Xian added, "If you want to return to your family, I can call for them tomorrow. I happen to be an old friend of your father's. I'm sure I can convince him to come and take you home."

Jiang Xian smiled kindly, expecting relief or happiness from Zian. But instead, Zian's expression grew distant, and his lips tightened.

"I don't want to go back," Zian said softly, his voice firm despite the emotions swirling inside him.

Jiang Xian raised an eyebrow but didn't press. "Why not, boy? Your family must be worried about you."

Zian hesitated, but then he took a deep breath. "I have my reasons," he said finally. "I… I want to stay here. There's someone I need to find—a friend. Please, let me stay."

Master Jiang studied Zian for a moment, then smiled. "Very well. If that's what you want, I won't force you to go. But if you stay here, you'll have to live like one of my students."

"I'll do it," Zian said quickly, his determination shining through.

Jiang Xian chuckled and nodded. "Good. Then it's settled. You'll train, study, and live as the others do. But remember, this isn't an easy path. Are you ready for the challenges ahead?"

Zian straightened up, meeting Jiang Xian's gaze. "Yes, Master Jiang. I'll do whatever it takes."

"Good lad," Jiang Xian said, patting him on the shoulder. "For now, let's get you settled in. I'll have someone show you to your room and give you some fresh clothes. Tomorrow, your training begins."

Zian followed Jiang Xian as he called over one of the older students to assist him. As he walked through the training grounds, he noticed a group of students sparring with wooden swords. Among them, a boy slightly younger than him was causing a ruckus, laughing loudly and teasing his opponents.

"That's my son, Jiang Yu," Jiang Xian said, pointing to the boy. "You'll meet him soon enough. Just try to keep up with his energy."

Zian watched Jian Yu's antics with a faint smile. Despite the boy's mischievous nature, there was something endearing about him.

As the day turned into evening, Zian found himself in a modest but comfortable room. The faint sound of swords clashing and laughter outside eased some of the tension in his chest. For the first time in days, he felt a small sense of belonging.

Lying on the simple cot, Zian stared at the ceiling, his thoughts drifting to Hua An. He had come so far, faced so much, and yet the search for his friend had only just begun. But now, with Master Jiang's support, he felt a glimmer of hope.

As the stars twinkled outside, Zian whispered to himself, "I'll find you, Hua An. No matter what."