A week had passed since I returned from the mountain, and summer was coming to an end. I went to the military camp with Father and Big Brother to join as a physician—making me the first female physician there.
Women of this era were expected to stay home and look after the children, but I was different. My father supported my decision. After all, I'm a walking calamity. If I were to get married, someone might die.
Father summoned all the soldiers and physicians in the camp to introduce me. As expected, opinions about me were mixed.
"Even if she's the first apprentice of the mountain god, that doesn't mean she can handle military conditions. Please don't be offended, but we're talking about the lives of our warriors," one man said arrogantly, looking around at the soldiers.
"Oh? Is that so? Then why don't you test me and see if I can handle it?" I said, stretching a wide smile while locking eyes with him.
"How so?" he asked, tilting his head slightly to the left and folding his arms.
"You and me, one on one. No weapons—so it's safe for you," I said with a smirk, daring him.
"Okay, fine by me," he replied confidently.
Father nodded and announced, "Now that both sides agree, it's official. Prepare for the duel in 30 minutes."
We all dispersed to prepare. I headed to my tent to change into a comfortable outfit for swift movement.
I changed into my military robe: a red top with black accents—black collar and trim along the edges—paired with flowing black trousers contrasting with the vibrant red.
Once ready, I went to the training site where the duel would take place.
"Are both sides ready?" Lǐ Xùyáng asked, looking at us.
We nodded, and the duel began.
He struck a defensive pose while I stood sideways—one foot forward, hands clasped behind my back—calm but ready. I held his gaze, daring him to move first.
He lunged at me with a fist. I stepped my forward foot back, dodging. I grabbed his punching hand with my left, spun around to face away from him, then slammed my palm into the back of his neck.
He crumpled to the ground.
[Damn, I might have overdone it. I better check his pulse fast to make sure he's okay.] I crouched, reached for his wrist, and felt his heartbeat.
Phew! At least he's alright. I don't want anyone dying on my first day here—not with me being the first female physician. That would bring unwanted attention and endanger my family.
I sighed in relief, stood up, and asked two soldiers to carry him to the tent so he could rest.
The crowd erupted in excitement. Many came forward, begging me to teach them the technique.
"As expected of the general's daughter. You took him down without breaking a sweat. You've grown so much since I last saw you. Damn! You'd make an excellent soldier. The camp will benefit greatly from having you here," the vice general said, pulling me into a hug and patting my head.
"Why do you say that like you haven't seen me in ages? If anyone saw you now, they'd think it's been a century since we last met," I teased, and we both burst out laughing.