'Being constrained by one's status, isn't that a form of arrogance in itself?' Li Yan thought.
These words, which sounded a bit childish, had stumped the crowd.
"We study to be loyal to the Emperor and serve the nation, to do our part for the empire," someone retorted.
The words sounded particularly high-minded and sanctimonious.
Li Yan's smile faded and he shook his head. "'Arrogance is the chief of all evils, while humility is the foundation of all good.' You stand on your status now, unwilling to display your talent at a mere restaurant. In the future, how can you be sure that your superiors won't be just as arrogant, perhaps not even bothering to give you a chance to display your talent?"
Li Yan was young, but his Grand Tutor had praised him before the Emperor on more than one occasion. He lauded the Crown Prince for his resilient character, his independent mind, and his precocious intelligence.
