The Gathering Of The Iron Troops . . .
In front of the resplendent Palace of Hua-Yang, a profound sense of ceremony enveloped the atmosphere. Sixteen esteemed generals, who also served as greeters, stood in perfect formation. In a synchronized display of reverence, they saluted and raised their voices in unison, expressing their gratitude.
"Thank you, General Cha Nan-Tian! Thank you, members of the Northern Army! Thank you, brothers! Please, come inside!" they chorused, their voices resonating through the air.
Approaching from the other side were the five generals from the Northern Army, striding purposefully toward the greeters. As they drew nearer, they extended their hands, gently knocking their fists together in a gesture of camaraderie. Despite the warmth of their greeting, their expressions remained stern and resolute.
Having exchanged pleasantries, the five northern generals continued forward, moving behind the original sixteen greeters to form an extended welcoming committee for the arriving guests.
The fifty soldiers who had accompanied the northern generals lined up in two neat columns. Marching in unison, they proceeded to join their counterparts from the Palace of Hua-Yang. With their inclusion, the total number of individuals comprising the welcoming party reached fifty-five.
This assembly of soldiers, standing side by side, projected an image of impeccable order and harmony. Their collective presence exuded an air of solemnity and purpose, as if this gathering were the most natural occurrence in the world.
From the east, the rhythmic cadence of footsteps heralded the arrival of yet another troop, proudly bearing a raised flag. The greeters announced their presence with a concise acknowledgment.
"The Eastern General's contingent..."
Similarly, from the western direction, the sound of marching feet signaled the arrival of the Western General's troops.
"The Western General..."
However, there was no procession from the south, as the Southern General, General Lan, was leading his forces in the ongoing battle. These warriors, veterans of numerous battlefields, had fought valiantly and resolutely throughout their careers. Yet, within the tranquil city, amid celebrations and festivities, their presence had faded into obscurity.
The most illustrious among them remained less recognized than the most popular courtesan in a bustling brothel. They had steadfastly dedicated themselves to their duty, awaiting their call within the city's quiet confines.
Only when the urgency of battle beckoned did they emerge as if summoned by divine decree, gathering here from every corner of the land. Their vitality and martial prowess remained undiminished, their spirits ablaze.
For years, they had borne the weight of their martial prowess in silence, often enduring mockery and jests from those who failed to perceive their true identities beneath civilian disguises. Yet, they bore these affronts stoically, awaiting this moment when their formidable strength would be fully revealed.
As they readied themselves for battle, their remarkable vigor shone through. Their fierce determination was reserved exclusively for the enemy on the battlefield, a testament to their warrior ethos.
Now, it seemed that all those meant to be present had assembled. As they prepared to enter the palace to join in the celebration, an unexpected voice echoed from the south, a region typically unrepresented in such gatherings.
"The Southern General's contingent is here to extend congratulations to Prince Hua-Yang. May you be adorned with the laurels of victory!"
The voice carried the weight of someone who had expended every ounce of their strength in the proclamation. It rang out hoarsely, as if the speaker's throat had been slashed. Those who heard it shared in the sense of urgency conveyed by the impassioned cry.
All eyes turned toward the source of the resounding voice. A small figure, clad in sturdy armor and brandishing a broadsword, approached with determined strides. His demeanor was one of unwavering seriousness, and the fervor that flickered within his eyes was palpable.
The gathered generals, their gazes fixed on this unexpected newcomer, found themselves filled with admiration. It was a reaction none of them had anticipated, for the man who now strode forward was the least likely participant in this grand gathering.
This unexpected figure was none other than Lan Lang-Lang, the son of the Southern General, Cha Nan-Tian. As the Southern General's troops were currently engaged in battle in the south, Lan Lang-Lang stood alone, representing the entire southern army.
While he might have been a solitary representative, as the son of the Southern General, his presence held significant weight.
In an instant, the image of a man unafraid of swords and spears had shattered the perception of Lan Lang-Lang as a mere local lord with no military ties. The generals present couldn't help but applaud this display of courage.
"Bravo!"
"The Southern General indeed raised a tiger of a son! His courage is admirable!"
Brawny-faced generals shouted their approval, while Lan Lang-Lang, brimming with indignation, retorted, "You're all talking nonsense! I'll prove my mettle!"
Laughter filled the air as the generals dismissed his retort. They had meant it in jest and promptly invited him for drinks. Undaunted, Lan Lang-Lang raised his head, puffed out his chest, and strode boldly into the palace.
The unexpected arrival had brought an air of joviality to the gathering. The generals, feeling at ease, followed suit and entered the palace. These were the comrades they deemed worthy of their camaraderie, and they treated each other like brothers.
Though there would be princes, officers, and even the king's envoy arriving later, the generals had no intention of extending the same warm welcome to these dignitaries.
As the atmosphere settled, a sudden disruption occurred. A figure in pristine white attire seemed to glide forward, announcing his presence with a spirited shout.
"Make way for one more from the Northern General's troops! I wish Prince Hua-Yang resounding victory!"
All heads turned once more, and the assembly was greeted by the sight of a young man in white. His robe, as pure as newly fallen snow, was cinched with a cyan waistband. Tall and upright, his features became increasingly distinct as he approached.
With his striking handsomeness, a gentle smile, and graceful bearing, he was none other than Cha Eun Xiao, the son of the Northern General, Cha Nan-Tian.
Cha Eun Xiao had managed to change into his attire with remarkable speed and had rushed to the gathering. He could feel the fervor in his blood as he made his way to the assembly.
The endless lines of soldiers and the solemnity of the occasion had given Cha Eun Xiao a newfound appreciation for military life, a deeper understanding of the soldier's spirit, and a profound sense of the significance of home and country.
Lan Lang-Lang's unexpected presence had already left everyone astonished, but the arrival of Cha-Eun Xiao, also known as Ye Xiao, was equally shocking. It was a sight that no one could have imagined. The "three lords in town," who had previously been considered foppish black sheep, were now on the brink of having their ironic titles revoked due to their honorable conduct.
While people were initially taken aback, their expressions soon shifted from surprise to admiration. In the midst of the northern troop, the two tigers, two dragons, and one lion beamed with pride.
"The son of our beloved great general... he's here!"
For those watching, Cha-Eun Xiao's demeanor exuded confidence and vitality. His casual yet vigorous stride conveyed an air of comfort. There was, however, one small imperfection that detracted from his otherwise impeccable appearance—the cyan hair bundle was slightly askew.
But this minor flaw quickly faded from people's minds. As Cha-Eun Xiao confidently treaded the streets alone, it felt as though a formidable army marched in step behind him.
Particularly striking was the soldierly intensity and an aura of invincibility that radiated from him. Under the gleaming blades at his side, he walked as if he were a conquering king, stepping over the entire world.
"Bravo!" shouted some generals who had never encountered him before. Witnessing the young lord's vigorous bearing and spirit, they couldn't help but pay their respects with loud acclaim.
The five generals from the northern army were moved by the sight. Their eyes glistened with moisture, and a touch of emotion pricked at their noses. At this moment, they experienced an overwhelming sense of contentment.
These men would always choose to bleed rather than weep, yet here they were, unable to hold back their tears.
They had heard the rumors about the foppish and useless young lord. They had even lamented that it was the most pitiable thing for a tiger to beget a dog.
However, now it all seemed like baseless gossip to them.
Men understood men best.
Only a true man comprehended the essence of manhood.
In their hearts, the son of their great general was unquestionably a man.
True, he appeared somewhat youthful, but his indomitable spirit shone brightly. His confident gait and determined countenance were more than sufficient to convince these iron-willed individuals.
Cha-Eun Xiao was no coward.
The son of the great general had proven himself worthy and had not brought shame to his father or the northern army.
With deep respect, the five generals simultaneously saluted and addressed him, "Young General."
Cha-Eun Xiao took a deep breath and addressed the gathering, "You've all had a long day, my uncles."
The five generals, upon being called 'uncle' by Cha-Eun Xiao, were deeply moved. Their eyes welled up with emotion as they realized that the son of the great general had matured and become sensible. It was a moment of pride for them.
As everyone made their way into the Palace of Hua-Yang, it became evident that not all of those who had gathered outside could fit inside the spacious palace. Despite its size, the palace couldn't accommodate such a large number of people.
Under the guidance of a group of soldiers, dozens of men, including Cha-Eun Xiao, who had arrived later, took their seats in the main hall alongside the generals who had been there earlier. The arrangement clearly separated the generals from the other attendees.
Prince Hua-Yang's nature was both vigorous and willful, and in the Kingdom of Chen, there was no one else who would dare to arrange seating as he did.
As time passed, the crown prince, the second prince, the third prince, and various officers began to arrive one by one. Representing the House of The Minister was none other than Zuo Wu-Ji. However, when he attempted to enter the main hall and sit with Cha-Eun Xiao, he was met with refusal.
There were no special privileges here, not even for the son of Minister Zuo. Despite being one of the "three lords," his lack of military background meant he had no right to sit in the main hall.
"Get out!" A stern general glared fiercely at Zuo Wu-Ji and firmly ordered him to leave as Zuo Wu-Ji persistently sought a place among them.