King Shrunle took great delight in the news and promptly hosted a feast in celebration. After hearing Herr Gen’s vigorous accolades of Qu Fongning’s valor, he bestowed him with considerable gold and silk. As soon as Qu Fongning left the court, he went over to the Ghost Army tables and distributed all the rewards. The crowd fussed about him to see the thumb ring, and he readily took it off, passing it around for show. A night guard commander pinched it in close examinations for a long while, “this thumb ring is called ‘Iron Blood,’” he said with exasperation, “I have been in the army for seven years, and have only heard of its name. I didn’t even know whether it was square or round. You really can’t blame the old brothers’ envy. The General really has taken a special liking to you.”

Another holding a liquor bowl smiled into a squint. “So be it with Iron Blood. He’s got something else you can’t even covet!”

The night guard commander tore off a chunk of lamp leg and smacked his greasy lips, shaking his head. “I can see that,” turning to Qu Fongning, he said, “Little comrade, you are a generous character, the old guys really like you! However, even if you got some talent, you might not fully learn the General’s superb shot. It’s not me trying to scare you. There have been at least ten thousand, if not eight thousand, who have sought the General’s guidance. Yet on the steppes nowadays, not to mention a genuine replication, there may not even be a scant few who can even scratch the surface of his art.”

“Our Commander General is the living incarnation of the god of war, who has the eyes of heaven, unbound by mortality, divine in martial prowess, and unattainable by the mere effort of ten thousand men. It’s not to be learned by a mortal,” said an old wardenry in a dignified expression.

Qu Fongning hastily held up his liquor. “I am young and green, and have spoken wild. I hope the big brothers will excuse my impudence. However, being alive in this mortal world, one ought to have a pursuit. Today I have seen the General breaking torrent with a flying arrow, thenceforth I shall follow the General’s horse and saddle for the rest of my life, and shall not have any other aspirations.”

Of the hundreds of soldiers in attendance, not one of them was not staunchly devoted to the Commander General; his proclamation dove right into their hearts. “Perfectly said!” shouted the men. And so, they laughed and drank lustily, soon beyond distinction between one another.

Little Ting’yu sat alone on the side, watching Qu Fongning being pushed and embraced for drinks. “Fongning really said it well. Everyone ought to have a pursuit! His aspiration is General Yujien, but I…don’t have anything,” he quietly reflected in his heart.

His heart ached amid this joyous and happy occasion, and furtively, he made his way back to the embassy.

Everything at the embassy was as before, even the paper packet of deer velvet that Qu Fongning spilled during the morning rush was still scattered on the floor.

He was too lazy to clean up, laid himself down, silently mulled over the events of the day, wept for a while, and finally shut his lids.

As he was in the groggy stage before slumber, the familiar chiming of bells rang from the doorway. What accompanied the bell jingles was a kind of unfamiliar lurching footsteps.

He was too tired to turn open his lids; a few thoughts swirled sluggishly in his head, “Did Fongning come back? No, Fongning’s footwork is so light and pleasant to the ear, how can it be so crude and heavy?”

The curtain on the threshold was roughly swept aside in a whoosh. The lockets on the drape rope whipped on the oiled fabric and made a dull thud.

His nose smelled a gush of alcohol, and his mind immediately caught up, “So he’s drunk.” If it was usual, he would have already gotten up and attentively searched for Qu Fongning’s face, and to see whether he drank too much. But today he wasn’t sure why he didn’t want to bother with him, and continued to feign sleep to himself.

Qu Fongning went ahead to his bedside and wobbly flung himself to his back. “Little—General,” he called.

This tone rustled cloyingly, a little like a whine, and also a little like a plea.

In Little Ting’yu’s ears, it was like a slender tongue licking in through his ear channels. His body shuddered. “How did Fongning’s voice turn to this?” he wondered.

Qu Fongning’s arms wrapped around his waist, breathing hot air by his heck. “Little General are you asleep?” he asked.

Little Ting’yu face burned. He struggled but didn’t break free. “I’m asleep. Quit fooling about!” he said in an undertone.

Qu Fongning giggled. “You are lying! I am gonna fool around anyhow.” And grabbed his shoulders, turning him towards himself. Seeing his face, he creased his brows. “You cried!” he said.

Little Ting’yu didn’t want him to notice, seeing his behavior unreasonable and departed from usual, he asserted, “I didn’t cry!”

Qu Fongning tilted his head, looking at him for a moment, and a decadent smile appeared on his face. “If you cried, you cried, so what! Let me comfort you!” he said.

He cupped Little Ting’yu head, leaned forward, and licked his lashes.

Little Ting’yu was startled, only feeling the wetness from his tongue sweeping fleetingly across his lids, and his entire body shook.

Qu Fongning licked across his eyes, then licked the tip of his nose and cheeks.

“Is this not enough? How about this?”

Little Ting’yu knew in his heart, “Fongning is drunk, I ought to push him away.” But his limbs couldn’t move.

Little Ting’yu saw the wiliness streaming from his eyes. “Fongning?” he enquired hesitantly.

Qu Fongning squinted his eyes, leaned in his face, and placed a kiss on his lips.

His lips were soft and dry, with a drizzling warmth. Little Ting’yu’s head instantly steamed up from his kiss.

In the beginning, Qu Fongning was only probing, and smooched him twice, then unable to contain himself, things soon spiraled out of control. Little Ting’yu’s chest was a plate of boiling hotness; he also looped his arms around his neck.

Their breaths intertwined for a while kissing. Although it was only the light overlaps of lips, their breathings had already become disordered.

Little Ting’yu was inexperienced in the affairs of love; however, being a scion of nobility, through eyes and ears, he had naturally picked up a couple of measures of flirtation. But knowing was only knowing. He never tasted the flavors himself. Being a hot-blooded youth, and to be flirted with like this, how could he not be worked up? Soon, the member between his thighs raised tall and stout, swelling uncomfortably, and he couldn’t help leaning in and rubbing himself on Qu Fongning’s legs.

On one side, Qu Fongning kissed him into a tangle, and on the other, his hand dived into his lower tunic and grabbed the erection between his legs.

That Watering Chill was obviously thrown aside, for his palm was swelteringly hot. The thumb drew a swirl on the soft head and Little Ting’yu’s back tingled, breathing out a heavy groan.

Qu Fongning folded him to his back arm, embracing him from the back. His right hand gripped him deeply, thoroughly studying his root and scrotum, and stroked him up and down, fast, and slow, helping him comfort his most precious piece of hardness. Little Ting’yu head was giddy with pleasure, even his waistline tensed straight. However, a disquieting uneasiness loomed in the depth of his heart, agonizing him in the ecstasy.

Qu Fongning would not know his musings. He looped him for a while and seemingly became impatient, leaned into his ear, and made a gentle moan. This sound was overwhelmingly debauched, and uttered against his ear bone. How could he take it? His eyes saw nothingness, his waist and thighs convulsed repeatedly, and he ejaculated in Qu Flanging’s hands.

This was the first time in his life being served to climax; the stimulus was wholly incomparable to working out himself. After many long breaths, his bosom slowly returned to peace.

Now recalling his previous reveries, he felt Qu Fongning’s handwork supremely expert, presumably practiced from somewhere.

Strange feelings fluttered through his heart. He took some hand towels to clean the soiled matter between his legs. Afraid to look at Qu Fongning, he called him in a low voice.

After a while, there was no reply. He turned to look. Qu Fongning’s one arm still lingered around his waist, but he had already fallen asleep.

~

After the extended exertion during the night, Little Ting’yu slept in late the following morning. He felt something soft tickling his face, and he grabbed in annoyance, but it was a knot of fringe from a belt. He saw Qu Fongning dangling a belt in front of his eyes, calling loudly.

“Little General, wakey wakey!”

Hearing his voice, he woke instantly. But as soon as he saw his face, he felt unusually awkward, and tried to turn away.

“Brother Herr is going to the bridal procession tonight. If you don’t get up now, we won’t make it! Give me your hand, let me help you,” he coaxed him. He held a rouge wedding facilitation gown in his hand, and grabbed his lower hem, attempting to dress him.

Little Ting’yu saw him behave as usual, stumbled still, and felt a little irritated.

“Yesterday…what were you?” he clenched his jaw.

Qu Fongning ahhed and scratched his cheeks, “I was drunk and fuzzy in my head yesterday, and only remembered Commander Gando escorting me to the door and biding me not to fall, and then…the sun rose?” he said.

Little Ting’yu stiffened. “Umm, the sun rose!” he finally said.

“Open your arms!” Qu Fongning hurried again, helped him put on the cloak, fixed his collar, and tied his belt.

Little Ting’yu gaze couldn’t help following his hands, it was long and beautiful, every section perfectly proportional, strong and steady, and attractive in any posture.

Suddenly, his face burned. “Why are you staring at his hands,” he cursed himself.

~

Naturally, the marriage of the Khilan Princess ought to be inordinately particular. It also happened to be on the day of “Star Shift”, henceforth it must be a particular of the particular.

When Little Ting’yu entered the court, though the wedding procession had not yet assembled, Herr Gen was already dressed in red silken cloaks with riding boots high past his knees, and the leading grand minister and head shaman were fervidly discussing the reception arrangements. Princess Uli was even busier, she was not only the bride, she was also the festive grand shaman; for which the grand minister and head shaman almost had a fight about the style of her veil.

Qu Fongning cut across the hustle. “Brother Herr, congratulations, congratulations!” he said, smiling.

Herr Gen immediately left the entourage to receive him. “Brother Fongning, how come you’ve only come now?” he greeted.

“I’m here to deliver your wedding present,” Qu Fongning said, lowered his head to search in his pouch, and took out a half-worn coat; it was the one that Herr Gen draped over him a few days before. He passed it to his hands, folded neat and straight.

Herr Gen received it unhurriedly and noticed a faint fragrance from the pocket.

He regarded Qu Fongning deeply with a smile. “What can’t you give me, giving me a flower?” he said.

“Brother Herr,” Qu Fongning said solemnly, “this is a specialty flower from our Mei waters. It’s small and pure white, withers as soon as it blooms, only leaving boundless regrets, and inducing one’s laments and reminiscences. There is a name for it in Syr, called ‘the bloom of first love.’ Any who sees it cannot help thinking about their first love.”

The grand minister and head shaman were both doubtful, saying they had already forgotten themselves for decades, how could a flower have such power.

Qu Fongning looked at Herr Gen. “Brother Herr, how about you?” he teased.

Herr Gen darted him a glance, and spoke:

“I have never forgotten, why do I need to remember?”

“When your brother Herr was young, he had a bunch of fox pals and canine friends.”

“One was our leader, who liked people calling him the big boss. He was great at getting us in trouble, and we got scolded every time. Umm, exactly something a big boss would do.”

“One was a little big man. Everything he did was exact and proper, his hair invariably combed and never amiss, his dress and shoes had to follow the rules, and his face always had a slab expression. Don’t judge just because he pretends like an adult, he was actually the most childish one! If anyone else learned a song, he would stay up all night to learn it as well.”

“Another was a talented kid of great fame. Our boss was most afraid of him, yet relied on him with everything. He could learn anything he finds, and he was especially good at writing… songs. All the adults who heard his songs would bulge their eyes as wide as a dzeren¹. And his songs were all very interesting too, sometimes singing about the white birds on the nine skies, sometimes singing about the little turtles in the mud piles.”

“Adding on our big boss’s cry baby sister, that’s all of us. We used to sneak to all sorts of places for games, the four of them would just sit in comfort on the way, and I had to be the coachman driving the carriage all by myself!”

“There was once, we didn’t know why, we got on an old trail, and the horse injured its front hooves, so the five of us had to get off the carriage, and walk slowly.”

“It was autumn, the golden wind blew across the gentle waters, there were fallen leaves all over the ground, and a sheet of ice-surgery frost was layered on the hard earth.”

“We were on the trail saying something so funny, we laughed so hard that our throats became hoarse, but we couldn’t stop.”

“Our leader leaped on top of a huge rock and proclaimed, ‘My aspiration is to allow my subjects to always be as happy as today!”

“I was also extremely excited. I said, ‘I shall be a great general, who shall wipe out your enemies, and bring peace to the four directions.’”

“The child who wrote songs said, ‘I’ll write you…many songs, let everyone in the world sing my songs, and live happily ever.’”

“The little big man didn’t want to fall behind; and he said, “Then I’ll stand by your side and help you catch all the bad guys who try to stir up trouble.’”

“The cry baby sister looked around, saw that she couldn’t help with anything, and started crying again.”

The others heard the groom telling a story, all crowded in to hear. When he got to this part, they couldn’t help asking:

“This little girl who likes to cry was Yabghu Herr’s first love?”

“No,” Herr Gen said.

He looked at Qu Fongning. There were tender smiles in his eyes.

“That day, the western wind on the ancient trail, the horse slipping on the thick frost, was my first love.”

Qu Fongning batted his eyes hard. “Brother Herr’s story is truly beautiful. My tears are coming out,” he said.

Herr Gen held up his gold threaded archer’s sleeve and wiped for him, “You are not allowed to cry, I haven’t asked about you yet!”

“What is horse slip on thick frost?” Little Ting’yu brooded, “if you nail iron shoes on the hooves, horses won’t slip,” hearing Herr Gen ask about Qu Fongning’s first love, he suddenly minded very much, and hurried to straighten his ears to hear his answer.

And he heard Qu Fongning say, “I haven’t yet, but I’ll have mine soon.”

As he spoke, whether it was intentional or unintentional, he darted a quick glance to his direction.

Little Ting’yu suddenly felt his entire body light and airy, as if the sky lantern had lifted him up to the clouds.

Chao’yoonr instead sneered chit-chat to Princess Uli:

“I see that cry baby girl must’ve adored brother-in-law.”

“Naturally!” Uli laughed, “when girls are young, there isn’t anyone who doesn’t idolize heroes. Even when I was in my teens, I had an unutterable dream in my heart.”

Oyghrmuki came just in time. “No, no! When you were in your teens, you spent all your days with our General, you didn’t have much admiration or idolizations, but plenty of curses and brawls,” he poked fun at her.

Uli cackled. “How do you know I didn’t?” she countered.

“Well, well,” Yujien’s voice rose from behind him, “giving the old boy an empty delight before the show, you really think I haven’t got the guts to steal a wedding!”

Queen Lan only caressed the little fox in her arms, and spoke lightly, “Not everyone fancies heroes; some people like gentlemen!”

Everyone talked about their own, and rather set aside the incipient flower of first love.

~

When the sun almost fell behind the mountain, the wedding procession began. King Shrunle wanted his beloved daughter’s marriage to be a most splendid spectacle; flower boats with colorful silks lined the main watercourses of the Lii waters, inviting all the people of Khilan to view the ceremony. The marriage yacht sailed slowly in the center of the river, and heads moved in bobs along the two banks. Peddlers put down their businesses, guards left their stations, and everyone rushed and squeezed for the best spots by the waters, running along with the moving craft. The ceremony officers threw endless sesame naan, dairy crumbles, and maltose candies towards the two banks. The strong bodies took great advantage to the occasion, they leaped high and swept away all the goods above people’s heads, on one side chucking it down and smacking their lips, and on the other yelling in mumbles, “Here, here!”

Only the western merchant with the camel remained strolling languorously. However, unawares, a wrapped bundle full of halvas volleyed straight from the boat at the camelback. The aim was flawless, even for people throwing it face to face might not have this kind of accuracy.

People fooled around for a good while. And just as they were getting tired, light flashed before their eyes, for an illustrious five-colored golden ger was rising on a vast plain field. The object of the wedding procession craft — Princess Uli must be sitting therein.

The open field wasn’t quite empty. Many heavy headdresses loaded shamans, and various solemn ceremonial cloaks attired officials were busying about. All were holding several pretty snow-white lanterns in their arms. These lanterns were being placed according to the star patterns on the heavens, and not one can deviate by a bit.

By the time the boat embanked, the sky had turned dark, and the guards and ceremonial officials lit the torches to greet the groom disembarking the boat.

The moment people saw the groom, all immediately started cheering. Especially the girls, their throats shrilling high, rushed to the front lines to throw their bracelets, pouches, and all the bits and bobs towards the procession. If the guards didn’t block them so vigorously, they would have carried away the man altogether.

A couple of especially daring girls bribed the young guards with their flower-like kisses, and ran into the group of bridesmaids and attendants. They stood arm in arm, full of gallant air, puffed their bosom high, with their eyes sparkling bright, and tried all their might to block the groom out of the golden threshold.

The ritual officers sounded little lamb skins drums and clanged the red-stringed golden cymbals. All thousand sky lanterns launched at once—their bursting brilliance even diminishing the intensity of the stars.

Herr Gen marched his long legs towards the Princess’s golden ger. He didn’t notice at all the passionate cries nor fervent faces of the young girls.

His pair of eyes, brimming with sentiments and mirth, sparked a peculiar and burning gleamer. He stood in that infinite light cast by the thousand sky lanterns, calling tenderly, “Uli!”

Uli saw that he only had her in his eyes, and was overcome with happiness. More so than winning a hundred battles, for she had never experienced such rapturous euphoria.

The people blocking the threshold still struggled, but the drapes swept themselves aside—the Princess had come out herself.

Everyone gasped in shock, and stared dumbfounded at the steppes princess, who never took men in her eyes, galloping towards her tall and handsome lover.

In the night breeze, that magnificent flowing wedding dress fluttered into a streaming beam of violaceous light, even the embroidered phoenixes appeared to be taking flight.

Herr Gen laughed heartily. Tossing away the coral gemstones from his hands, he opened his arms and embraced Princess Uli.

And new tears overlapped with the old impressions on the dress. But this time, it was the tears of happiness from the new bride.

In that moment, cheers, whistles, screams and cries almost turned over the whole of Lii waters.

Only the finely bedecked Queen Lan remained sitting solemnly on the central seat of Grand Astrologer, her face shrouded in gloom.

Little Ting’yu had never seen such a lively wedding. His emotions were also uplifted with the occasion, and followed suit in yelling and cheering in the merriment.

He turned to look and saw Qu Fongning, who should be the most excited, wasn’t making a sound, but quietly watching the pair embracing in the lamplight, and his eyes were as deep as the remotest and unlit reaches of the heavens.

He was surprised. “Isn’t Fongning happy for his Big Brother Herr?” he thought.

In the end, however, he never voiced this tiny inquiry.

The following day, the group bid farewell to King Shrunle, strode under the deep glare of the summer sun, and returned to Chienye.

~

Ten or so smoke stoves rumbled in a circle within the medicinal yurt, charring the space with fumes and plumes, and sent the original simmering temperatures into a livid boil.

Because of the Lord Prince Qu’s upcoming birthday, Jorrji was invited in to make medicinal meals early in the morning.

“Seal the flames in the stoves after a quarter hour. No need to unseal the mud coverings on the pot, let it simmer for a while. Do you remember?” he instructed Songshr before leaving.

Songshr nodded. Before long, he returned again, scratching his head and chortling.

“…Before you light the fire, get a corner of honey from the green earthen bowl on the left, and apply a layer on the deer lip flesh on the pot…”

Songshr nodded again. When she took out the earthen bowl, grandpa Jorrji snuck in again. He furtively put a packet of meat on the ground, and grinned.

“Almost forgot, the meat is over here.”

Just as he saw Songshr’s face drop, he ran away.

Songshr was wholly vexed, but took the metal clamps and stuck the deer lip flesh one by one onto the empty pot, and brushed on layers of honey.

The metal pincers were very heavy. By the time she made two pots, her hands were too sore to move. When she heard the drapes shift, she immediately yelled:

“What else have you forgotten?”

Behind her, gold bells shook, the incomer answered hesitantly, “…. Forgot to say hello?”

Songshr instantly swiveled around and regarded the young man she hadn’t seen for many days. “I didn’t know it was you,” she blurted.

He seemed to have grown a bit taller, his eyes also darker and more radiant.

Qu Fongning smiled. “I have been impudent. What are you doing?” he said.

Songshr pointed at the honey bowl, thinking it wasn’t quite right, and pointed at the smoke stoves.

Even she couldn’t understand what this meant, but Qu Fongning took the hint. He took the metal clamps from her hand and started helping on her task. His hand flew up and down, seeming even more proficient than the cooks in the House of Lord Prince Qu.

Songshr watched from the side for a while and noticed the white streaks of slit marks on his throat. “Where did you go?” she enquired with concern.

“Umm, went for a long trip, and had a couple fights,” Qu Fongning said.

Since it was a fight, Songshr was rest assured. For other things, she could not say, but he would never lose a fight.

“Don’t squat here! Go out for some air. It’s so hot in here,” Qu Fongning told her.

Songshr dallied for a while longer before getting up and leaving, then she quickly found another reason to come in. “The Little General’s medicine has only been simmering for a bit. I’m gonna check on the fire.”

Qu Fongning paused the work on his hands. “I need to trouble you with the task of delivering medicine to him, from now on,” he said.

Songshr faltered, and felt the disappointment in her heart. “You are not going anymore?” she asked.

Qu Fongning lowered his head, fixed the deer flesh straight and flat, and said, “Mn, not going anymore!”

Songshr left the yurt alone and sat in the shaded corner to feel the wind.

Qu Fongning came out after a good while, with sweat all over his head and pants rolled up above his knees. “I’m going!” he said.

Songshr thanked him. But he turned around and bowed slightly towards her. “Miss Songshr,” he said.

Songshr backed a step, her fingers clutched the fabrics of her dress. “Mn?”

“Take good care of him,” Qu Fongning said solemnly.

His eyes were abysmal, as if suppressing a good deal of reluctance and sorrow. Songshr couldn’t help feeling sad also, and nodded hard.

And the sound of the gold bells followed him away, one chime after another.

~

The opulence of House Qu Sharraugh’s banquets had been widely known across the steppes. His thirty-fourth birthday was naturally to be an uncommon affair. It was said that there were at least sixty chefs hired just to cook red meats. But as the nobility and aristocracy salivated for the gourmet cuisine, they also fretted about the gifts.

This particular early morning, a very ill-disposed guest arrived on the House Qu territory. His manner was exceedingly unfriendly the moment he entered the gates, howling persistently, “Qu Lyn you punk, get outta here.” The slave were too afraid to offend this noble guest, and all silently prayed to the true lord to make him leave soon.

Little Ting’yu’s face was palled with gloom. “Don’t you dare play dumb! Where have you hidden Fongning to?” he asked.

Qu Lyn made an ehh. “Cousin, when you lose something, why’ve you come to my place to look for it?” he said.

“Fongning belongs to your house. Of course I should come here to look!” he retorted.

“Oh!” Qu Lyn dragged out his voice, “so it belongs to my house; it seems you’ve lost something of mine.”

Little Ting’yu finally realized he’s been tricked. “I’m not wasting my mouth and tongue. Take him out this instant!” he demanded.

Qu Lyn was in no hurry. He found himself a silk upholstered stool to sit down, examined the golden bracelets on his wrist, and spoke with a half-smile, “Cousin, this is where you are wrong. When you come to my house to see my person, you ought to speak more politely, and pleasantly. You being this mean and nasty, who would want to listen to you?”

Little Ting’yu realized his impertinence and relaxed his tone. “If I be more polite, you will let me see him?” he asked.

“No,” said Qu Lyn, idly.

“You!” Little Ting’yu slammed on the handles, biting his teeth.

“Cousin,” said Qu Lyn, “don’t say I am being unreasonable. You are really smitten with this little slave of mine. This child is also a sentimental one, running to your yurt every two, three days, making tea and sending meds, and that is not even worth mentioning; Even when you get away, he tags along for ten thousand li. You had your joy ride in Khilan, but where do you suppose your little cousin’s face lies? If I don’t teach him a lesson this time, I shouldn’t be the Lord of Ten Thousand Slaves anymore!”

A chill ran over Little Ting’yu. “What are you going to do to him?” he said in apprehension.

“How about cutting it into eight pieces, and soak it in mare milk for drinks?” said Qu Lyn, sinisterly.

The blood on Little Ting’yu face washed clean. “You…you dare?” he said tremulously.

Qu Lyn guffawed, “He is my slave. Only I can decide what I do with him!”

Little Ting’yu tone suddenly changed, “You… what have you done… with him?” he stuttered.

“What?” Qu Lyn was perplexed.

He would never guess what Little Ting’yu was thinking now: “Fongning… was so nimble and practiced, did Qu Lyn…abuse him?”

Qu Lyn saw the sulk on his face and opened his hands. “I don’t like to twaddle small talk! In the future, if you see him once, I’ll cut off a finger of his; if you speak one word to him, I’ll knock off a tooth of his. If you don’t want to see him lose something on his body, don’t come looking for him!” he said, whipped his sleeves and turned to leave.

“Qu Lyn,” Little Ting’yu called in a hurry, “he being here is only an object of show for you. If he comes with me, it would be very different. I have never asked you for anything, but only this person, can you please… concede? If you like this sort of martial ones, I’ll give you eight or ten in the future.”

His personality was cool and elusive, and rarely begged like this. Qu Lyn listened to his fervent speech and something moved in his heart. “This is what you call dead set devotion!” he thought. Presently, he turned around and made a glacial expression.

“Sorry, cousin. I’ve always had a queer obstinance; as long as it’s my item, I rather it rot in my hands, then give it to someone else!”

He finished, swung around, and left. Little Ting’yu bit hard on his lips, his gaze piercing through his back.

~

The swarm of slaves watched the master quarreling with someone, and fearing for the crossfire, all shivered in fear. Qu Lyn sauntered into a little round yurt in solitude, and humphed at the individual sitting casually on the ground. “You are rather idle,” he said.

Qu Fongning was sitting barefoot on the soft carpet, playing with the golden bells in his idleness. As he heard, he raised his eyes and smiled. “Master personally leading the charge on the steed must guarantee a successful venture.”

Qu Lyn lowered to hold his face. “I’ve been a villain for you,” he said, smiling unsmilingly.

Qu Fongning leaned into his hand and said, looking up at him. “This humbled servant shall forever remember the master’s kindness.”

Qu Lyn tsked, withdrew his hand to sit by the carpet, and started pulling down the onerous silver ceremonial headdress from his crown. On the round table sat two little porcelain cups filled with green wine. Watering Chill was placed next to the cups, cooling the liquor to emit a frosty white mist, and making moisture condense along the side of the vessels. Qu Fongning held the wine cup and offered it with both hands. “Master, though your method is good, you need to find another hiding spot for this humble servant. Or else when they come looking, this insignificant one shall be in danger. Even though teeth and fingers are paltry objects, it would be a shame to lose them,” he supplicated.

Qu Lyn sipped the wine and glanced at his hand. “Your hands are already exceptional, now you are going to learn archery from the Ghost Sovereign. How can you lose it?” He stroked the ring on his thumb and said, “When I let you go follow him to Khilan, I wasn’t expecting anything. Who would’ve known you took one shot and brought back such a crown jewel. Not just me, even when father heard it, he was especially impressed!”

Qu Fongning lowered his head. “All thanks to master’s adept guidance.” He hesitated, then asked, “does the Great Master have any other instructions?”

“Just keep the tangle tight. How is Yujien Tianhung easy to deal with? Father tried to associate with him. In the past, he sent him mountains of gems and women, but when had he ever taken a glance!” he said.

“Yes, this humble servant shall take the opportunity of learning the bow to stick by his side every other day. With months and years, shall be sure to be of some use,” said Qu Fongning, kneeling on the ground to pour wine for him.

Qu Lyn watched the splattering wine droplets. “It won’t be so easy. You’ve seen Guo Wuliang’s bow work, which is superb. But according to him, he is of heaven and earth difference from Yujien Tianhung, and will never be shoulder to shoulder for this life. He told me that his archery is of the ‘Mortal Method,’ which is as accurate as the rays of sun and words of scriptures, thus he can teach, and we can learn; whereas Yujien Tianhung’s archery is of the ‘Null Method,’ which cannot be taught, and cannot be learned. Those two go way back in acquaintance built from common conquest since their youth. Yet I observe he doesn’t take Yujien as an equal comrade, and regard him more with respect and reverence.”

Qu Fongning looked solemn and sat up to proper form. “Exactly how is it the ‘Null Method’? has General Guo ever mentioned it?” he inquired.

Qu Lyn pointed to the wine bowl. “Do you see this bowl? I can put it anywhere, as long as it’s within the shooting range, it won’t be a problem for you?”

“This unworthy servant doesn’t know any archery. But if you change it to throwing blades with bare hands, it is unmissable within a radius of two or three zhang.”

Qu Lyn tsked. “My goodness!” And he raised the wine bowl and splattered the contents to the ground.

Felted Persian rugs covered the ground. The moment the liquid touched the floor, it was instantly absorbed through.

And he heard Qu Lyn say, “Did you see clearly?”

Qu Fongning watched without answering. Subtle light gleamed in his pitch-black pupils; he was apparently thinking with all focus.

Qu Lyn refilled the wine and sipped slowly.

“That day, General Guo also struck his whip suddenly like this, hitting the current of the water. He said, in our eyes, the flying droplets appear chaotic and disorderly, and there is no path or pattern to be found. However, in Yujien Tianhung’s eyes, they appear the same as this inanimate bowl, and he can strike any particular drop with command.”

Qu Fongning appeared to be looking into the void. Qu Lyn snickered, saying, “You really believe it? However mighty he is, is still but a mortal with common flesh and blood. How can the human eye discern flowing water? It’s probably just Guo Wuliang’s excessive adulation, over boasting the truth.”

Qu Fongning shook his head. “No, it’s true,” he said, and recounted to him the arrow across Young’ching’s flying falls. Qu Lyn was unperturbed. “He’s probably just got a bit more might, and forced away the water.”

Qu Fongning said no more, knelt by the side, and lightly gnawed his fingers.

Qu Lyn looked at him and smiled indolently. “What, going to focus it all on taking down Yujien, and aren’t even going to play goody-buddy games with my cousin anymore?” he teased.

“General Yujien has razor sharp eyes. This unworthy individual must put in a hundred twenty thousand points of energy and not let down focus for an instant. The acquaintance with Little General must then take a break,” he said sincerely.

Qu Lyn laughed. “My poor cousin, who presently still believes that I am the villain who is taking apart this pair of life and death friends. But you’ve taken such immense effort, coaxed him into coming and begging at me in all sobs and tears. It seems to be a waste to throw it away like this.”

Qu Fongning made a subtle smile. “Master can rest assured. Before I left, I cast a little spell over Little General. No matter how many years, he will always see me differently,” he said.

Qu Lyn smiled, scowling. “Spell? Where did you learn these heretical tricks, from Guifang? Why don’t you put one over Yujien Tianhung?”

Qu Fongning stared at the ground. “No, that one is only meant for the Little General,” he said.

Qu Lyn peered at him with suspicion. Hearing voices breaking outside the yurt and festive firecrackers covering the sky, he raised his head for a look and rose from his seat. “Whatever, first help me get rid of my uncle! If my father sees him, you will be tethered to my cousin for the rest of your days, and won’t need any more spells.”

Qu Fongning followed with a look. The corner of his lips curved. “To tackle him, this humble servant has a perfect plan,” he said.

~

Ever since Little Ting’yu’s return from the Khilan mission, he had appeared before his father every day, relentlessly speaking praises of Qu Fongning, vaunting his unmatched valor and drive for the greater good. And if father doesn’t vouch for him soon, General Yujien would jump to the steal before him.

General Ting’schi, having heard his flaccidity in Young’ching, had brooded a belly of fury. Although King Shrunle praised his meticulous mind, he felt no spark of joy. Nonetheless, with several days of soft persuasions and hard pestering, though he said nothing, he still considered his dear son’s wishes. And it happened to be Qu Sharraugh’s birthday. Thus, he prepared several fine horses and set out in the wee hours towards Konan State, ready to take home this legendary young champion.

He had been tied to Qu Sharraugh through marriage and acquaintance for over thirty years. After the gifts and mentions, how could there be any refusals? And so it was said that Qu Lyn was taking him in accompanying guests in the back. Just take him away when you leave, and such. Then he teased him for being sharp in inspection, knowing how to pick, for not taking others in the eye, and only selected this particular one. Ting’schi picked up Qu Sharraugh’s meaningful smile, but couldn’t decipher it at the moment, and didn’t put it through his head.

Before luncheon past, Madam Ya whispered to his ear: Little Ting’yu had been bothered by something since early morning, and was still fasting out of spite. General Ting’schi thus thought to send the Qu boy back first so as to cheer him up. But after two sent prompts, the little prince and company were still bidding “farewell,” and would the General please allow a few more moments?

General Ting’schi observed their flickering glances and stumbling words, and their obviously unnatural tone. Suspicion roused in his heart. Then he was reminded of Qu Sharraugh’s peculiar smile, which furthered his disquiet, and stood up at once, deciding to confirm the truth with his own eyes.

He knew the rear gers. Though there was a couple men standing sentinel at the doorway, they did not dare to impede him, and let him go with faces full of apprehension.

As soon as he passed the threshold, he halted, thunderstruck, and rage exploded in his heart.

Sweet, scented smoke suffused the room. The supposed guests were nowhere to be seen, and there was only a broad and spacious soft bed strewn from piles of cushions, debauchedly red in hue. Qu Lyn was lounging on his soft bed, facing the door, with his hair and dress half shed, and a face apparent in a swoon. A white clad youth with disheveled raven hair sat on his lap with legs spread wide, and was prostrating pliantly over his shoulder, saying some unspeakable things.

General Ting’schi, in his shock, only hoped that he had made some kind of mistake, and consciously voiced his inquiry, “Qu Fongning?”

Qu Lyn just noticed him, “Un… Uncle Ting’schi, you… you are here?” That white clad youth originally had his back towards him, now he finally turned around. The red flush on his face hadn’t yet faded, the pair of eyes was moist with dew, and the corner of his eyes was plucked up with a line of silvery cosmetic; the appearance was absolute in allure.

His torso was only draped with a pale red muslin, with the front wide open showing from the chest to the belly button, and was covered with several peachy, light and heavy marks. The almost transparent white muslin trousers were rolled up to his thighs. His smooth and dainty calves were both naked, with one in Qu Lyn’s hand, who was stroking it up and down. And on that foot hung a golden anklet with two little drooping bells, the chime rang ostentatiously — completing the unutterable debauchery. He didn’t look at all like the material of a martial assassin, and much better described as a pretty plaything.

In that moment, the plaything raised his eyes towards him, apparently not recognizing him, and answered airily, “Mn? Calling me?” The voice was so raspingly saccharine, as to deathly sweet.

General Ting’schi bristled from head to toe and turned to leave at once. He neglected the lunch banquet altogether, and forthwith went back to give Little Ting’yu a solid lecture, berating him for not having learned any good and only grasped these noble scions’ obscene habits. How could a dignified household of a martial general keep male favorites? Moreover, deceiving father was a further aggravation to his crimes. Little Ting’yu explained relentlessly. But how could he listen? Henceforth, discipline towards Little Ting’yu stricken further, and he was not even allowed to visit Konan State anymore.

~

Qu Fongning swiveled his head around to watch General’s Ting’schi’s disappearing figure, and slowly retract his calf. “He probably believed it?” he guessed.

Qu Lyn’s hand was still slowly fondling him in his clothes, and didn’t look at the doorway. Suddenly, his hands flipped and pressed him beneath his body, smiling wickedly. “You stirred up your master’s flame. Open your legs!” he ordered.

Qu Fongning obediently opened his legs, looking up at him. “What is Master going to do?” he asked.

Qu Lyn saw his tranquil expression, devoid of timidity, and with a flicker of perplexity in the corner of his eyes. He was rather surprised. “You don’t know?”

Qu Fongning was very candid. “I know how to use hands.”

Qu Lyn chuckled, his desire instantly receded. “Forget it. It’s too troublesome with men anyway.” He lowered for a bite on his mouth and rose. “You know this. I don’t like to be the first. Whenever someone else has fixed you up good, I’ll play with you.”

Qu Fongning knew he has a queer sexual proclivity: he doesn’t like virgins, but has a penchant for mature and experienced women. Whenever Cher Vei and his throng boasted however many girls’ virginity they have taken, he would snort in contempt. He often said to people, there are only so many decades in life, it is not even enough to use it for enjoyment and pleasure; only the most foolish people would waste it on clearing virgin lands. This rhetoric naturally received vigorous criticisms from Prince Allonby’s company. But he remains insouciant in his ways and greatly enjoys himself in his own amusement. Of his two favorite concubines, one is a well-traveled shamanka, that is someone who often needs to convene with the shamans of various nations, to probe the truth of the scriptures with their flesh. And the other is outright a widow; thus, one can see how unique his taste are.

Qu Fongning didn’t understand what is “someone fixed you up good,” and stood up as well. “Master’s order, this humble servant shall oblige as always,” he said. As his mind returned to Little Ting’yu, he shook his head. Rather than Little Ting’yu coming for him, it might be a higher probability of him fixing him over.

Suddenly, the ceremonial cannons went off. A tumult broke in the crowd, and an elevated voice announced excitedly, “Master, Yu… General Yujien has arrived!”

The two exchanged a look, both with astonishment in their eyes. And they saw Qu Sharraugh personally leading his household, going far beyond the main gates for welcomes. Yujien Tianhung only brought along Oyghrmuki as his sole guard, wore casual and not ceremonial attire, and was covered with a common green wood mask; he appeared to be only strolling by, and not especially here to celebrate. But Qu Sharraugh noticed not, he stood at the gateway, and held and swung his hand back and forth, fervently inviting him in for a drink. “The General’s presence is this humble Prince’s greatest gift,” he said obsequiously, and the flock jostled, crowding Yujien in. Qu Sharraugh was ruddy and delighted beyond words. Even Yujien could not help capitulating to his ardor, sent off Oyghrmuki to pick up gifts, and followed in himself. Qu Sharraugh thus loudly instructed the superintendents to take off the remaining feast and exchange it for a completely fresh set. As for wine, everyone knew that the General only raises the cup to drink when he wears a silver mask. Nevertheless, they still brought in the finest liquor, just in case his lordship suddenly felt the urge to drink.

Qu Fongning stood in the rear ger, observing the Yujien’s figure, taller than others by almost two heads and extremely eye-catching in the crowd, and was unaware of Qu Lyn pinching his cheeks. “What, seeing your beau coming to the house, head over heels?” he teased.

“Master spoken heavy. The humble individual only ever has Master as his beau,” he said solemnly. Glancing at the silhouette outside the ger, he pursed his lips. “The others are just sources to borrow seeds,” he said.

~

According to Chienye custom, the later a party opened, showed more of the host’s reverence towards the guest. General Cher Baochi was crowned the king of banquets through his grandiloquence of opening several evening feasts on the following morning. Qu Sharraugh also strove to not fall behind, despite being a luncheon feast, the sun had already fallen west. And vessels, stems, bowls, and cups, dances, games, songs, and dancers all streamed like a river of fine golden jade.

He pulled Yujien Tianhung to sit in the left-hand seat of honor. Several peachy face slave girls sat in a circle with their pointy nails, filed the dairy crème into incredible fine shreds, and sieved the snow-white mare milk wine without a trace of dreg. Only hating that the General had covered his face firm today, giving them no opportunity for advances.

Qu Sharraugh chatted warmly with him for a round, and was resolute to keep him for dinner. Yujien observed the sumptuous cuisine and fine wine flooding in like currents, the host seeming determined to compete with Cher Baochi, and replied with the perfunctory pleasantries. Moments later, the feasting reopened. And after three rounds of drinks, he mentioned casually, “A while ago in Khilan. A little friend of the Lord Prince exhibited exceptional talents in hand and arm, and turned the tide with his sole strength. The younger generation is truly to be reckoned with — unforgotten upon my first glimpses of him.”

This statement was a blatant request for the person. Qu Sharraugh didn’t expect him to cut straight to the chase, nonetheless his face piled with smiles. “This humble Princes had been frail in the recent years, this sort of training works is now being done by Qu Lyn,” he said, and hollered instructions at Qu Lyn, “Call out the ones you are usually proud of, let the General have a look!”

“Yes,” Qu Lyn answered servilely, “our house has three exceptional slaves: one is unmatched in strength, people call him the Diamond Warrior.” He waved his arm, and Gerrgu’s towering figure strode forward, every step making the instruments and utensils on the Persian rug bounce in pings and pongs. Eight white muslin clad dancers rushed up in giggles, with four on each side, they grabbed his arm. Gerrgu raised his arms high and pranced a round dance for a good quarter hour, then finally let the dancers gently down.

“Old Sha!” Cher Baochi cried at once. “I have no small strength either. Give me these eight beauties and I’ll do a dance for you.” The guests roared with laughter.

Qu Lyn’s lips showed a corner of pride, and he continued once again, “One specializes in thievery. He can steal under your eyes in plain sight. Has anyone noticed that the lids of the tabletop wine flagons have been missing?”

The crowd looked, it was true, and all applauded their amazement. Cher Bien’s rodent-like head then emerged from behind him, and snickering, dropped the thirty, forty flagon lids on the floor.

Qu Sharraugh smiled. “General, how is it?”

“The Lord Prince has crouching lions and hidden dragons in his hand, much to be congratulated,” said Yujien.

Seeing the two, the audience had already opened their horizons, and all knew the next one must be even more impressive. “There’s one more! We want to see what the third one can do!” they bustled.

Qu Lyn smiled mysteriously. “Honored guests, please remain calm. Here it comes!” Raising his gold laden arms, he clapped twice.

In the blink of an eye, the space brimmed with luster. Two lines of white muslin clad dancers lifted in a slender woman draped in a gold-lined jade dress to the center of the great ger.

There was nothing on the floor, save for a delicate upside-down silver bowl. The woman extended her red lacquered toes and, like a featherlight hemming bird, on the less than half an cun diameter base of the bowl, started pirouetting wildly and sensually.

Her long hair, dressed in a flower crown, also danced under the glorious golden sunset. Her long gold trimmed veil drooped over, revealing a pair of sensual eyes; wherein ten thousand stars sparkled brightly, and the moving waves of her iris could light a bonfire….

“She is Palis, the best dancer of Iq’zamon,” Qu Lyn introduced.

Everyone held their breath, praying for those fair eyes to stay on them a moment longer.

Only Yujien Tianhung’s gaze bypassed her iridescent figure, and focused behind the dancers, on a white clad youth who entered with the assembly.

Qu Fongning, being mingled between the voluptuous female bodies, also seemed to feel his gaze. The raven bangs hanging by his shoulders moved. He raised his head, his eyes twinkled the light of joy. And raising his white muslin covered hand, he sneakily waved at him.

Oyghrmuki saw it, and his eyes bulged round. “Is that little Syr?” He pointed.

He remembered. Just a few days ago, this child was standing staunch and tall, full of handsome spirit, cutting off heads with the rise and drop of a blade, and emitting a threatening presence from head to toe. Even the most loyal and accountable guards could not compare with his ability.

But today, the hair was undone, the form fitting military uniform showing his slender but strong physiques were gone, for there was only a baggy white cloak with hem dragging on the floor. And the white muslin trousers were rolled up high, showing his naked foot treading on the carpet and with golden bells hanging on the ankle. Only little skylarks wear bells!

He opened wide his eyes and watched for a long while. “This isn’t right!” he hammered the conclusion.

Yujien smiled, looking at Qu Fongning, and his finger tapped twice on the table, gesturing him to come sit by his side.

And Qu Fongning really came with dings and dongs, but was immediately grabbed by Oyghrmuki, who pinched his face, studying him carefully.

At this moment, Qu Lyn simpered towards him. “We have exhibited the best three slaves of our house. Is there one that suits the General’s eye?”

“All three are good, but the one I want are not within them,” said Yujien.

Qu Lyn stomped in defeat. “That is really unfortunate,” he said, and threw a glance at Qu Fongning. “Haven’t you offered wine to the General for apology?”

All those seated knew, when General Yujien covered his entire face under the greenwood mask, it was a sign to reject all contributions. Qu Fongning did not know; hearing master’s commands, he naturally obeyed and obediently poured a cup of wine, and kneeling, he served it before Yujien.

Oyghrmuki laughed. “Old Oyghr’s throat is really thirsty. Thank you, thank you,” he said, wanting to interject the offering.

However, Yujien’s right hand intercepted. Slowly lifting a corner of the mask, he guided Qu Fongning’s hand, and downed the cup of wine in one go.

---