Chapter 573

Chapter 573

After a long, tense, and taxing week of vigilance and preparation, Binesi set aside an hour to meditate in the courtyard before it came time for the banquet.

Tonights festivities could very well devolve into a bloodbath of mythical proportions, but Nian Zu and the foundling could hardly arrive with swords drawn and bows bent. This was the true challenge which lay before him, to guard against enemies while maintaining a false air of harmonious unity. Ask any good soldier, and they would tell you fighting is easy. Despite what most nobles would have commoners believe, any fool could fight. It was his belief that this was by design, and that the Mother tailor-made humanity for this very purpose. Some might see wolves, tigers, bears, and other formidable predators of the wilds and believe otherwise, but they would be wrong. Hunting and fighting were two different matters, because one required skill, patience, forethought, and experience, while the latter just needed a reason.

And not even a good reason, at that. Of all the Mothers Children, humans were the only ones who fought and killed for their own murderous delight.

Well, aside from cats, but they fit in their own special category...

Humans were the Mothers soldiers in the battle against the Enemy, and Binesi was nothing if not a good soldier. Fighting was what he signed on for, what he trained for, what he thought about during the day and what he dreamt about at night. He loved his family, but despite what he might say otherwise, in his heart of hearts, he knew battle would always be his first and greatest love. Hed lived a good life, full of love and laughter, from his first kiss with Asane, bringing Aska and Teekway home from the orphanage, and watching his sons grow into men and become fathers themselves. He cherished these memories, and he missed his family dearly every time he had to leave them behind, but it shamed him to admit all this paled in comparison to how he came alive in battle.

Binesi called Baatar a mad wolf who fought only for the thrill of battle, and he knew this because they were two men cut from the same cloth. So many ignorant people believed demi-humans were wild, unpredictable creatures driven by bloodlust and instinct, but Binesi knew differently. If a demi-human was driven wild by bloodlust, then it was their human blood to blame, for humans were the most brutal and bloodthirsty creatures of them all. One only needed to look at the Enemys armies to know this for true, because while they had animals to ride and fight alongside them, only humans were ever truly Defiled by the Fathers whispered lies.

As such, fighting was easy. The second hardest part of Binesis job was waiting, but a life-long career in the Imperial Army had given him plenty of time to practice, and it was almost second nature by now. As for the hardest part of Binesis job, that was following orders which went against his instincts, such as marching himself into a likely death-trap to let his fragile ward rub shoulders with his enemies. Might as well send the lamb out to greet the tiger, though in the foundlings defence, he was no helpless lamb, which was little consolation considering his foes were no mere tigers either. The Supreme Families were dragons standing above other dragons, second only to the Emperor Himself, and the foundling had somehow become embroiled in their schemes. Binesi knew now that it wasnt entirely the foundlings fault, as Imperial Scions and politics were akin to ducks and water, but Falling Rain still had some blame for this mess hed gotten himself into.

He should have given up his rank the second he was crippled and run back home to the mountains. Hard to use him as a playing piece while sitting six weeks away from the action, and if someone should try to take him off the board, well... they would be in for a rude awakening indeed...

Still, there was something to be said about adversity and forges, as an argument could be made that the foundlings trials and tribulations had helped speed him along in his recovery, but it hardly mattered anymore. The foundling was here in the Central Citadel, not back in the North and safe among friends, but deep in the thick of things from the look of it. Binesi was never one for politics or strategies, which was why he was only a Major after so many decades of service, but he knew better than to reach beyond his station. Still, he could see that the foundling played the game well, instinctively knowing when to heed sound advice from the Imperial Servant beside him, and when to disregard her entirely and go about things in his own unique and surprisingly effective manner. Between his impressive demonstration at the opera house and his subsequent hard work winning over allies and support, the foundling had done what Benesi had thought was impossible: hed given himself a fighting chance.

And when it came right down to it, Binesi had fought and won with less.

Hearing the foundlings door swing open, Binesi suppressed a sigh, for he knew the time had come to march into the jaws of the enemy. Coming to his feet, he gazed upon the foundling with a critical eye, studying his Sentinel armour worn over his fashionable clothes and the fur-lined steel helmet tucked into the crook of his arm. With a sword on his hip, a shield slung over his back, and spear in hand, one might think him a soldier marching off to war instead of a young dandy attending a banquet, and for once, Binesi approved.

Right up until the she-bunny hopped into the foundlings arms and he crooned in delight, followed by a series of sickeningly moist kissy noises punctuated with actual kisses. Disgraceful is what that was, but at least the animals werent coming to the banquet with them...

Im sorry Mama Bun, the foundling began, cradling the over-sized rabbit like a fussy baby. I know youre mad about being left behind all the time, but I cant bring you with me today. Its a cruel, floof-shaming world out there and I have an image to uphold, so you need to tough it out and stay home, okay?

The rabbit didnt answer, because it was a rabbit, though it did seem mighty upset when the foundling passed her over to one of the half-rat handmaidens. Dont ye worry about a thing Master Rain, she said, rocking the perturbed rabbit in her arms like a fussy baby. Well take right good care of them, Sorya and I will, and Big Brother Jorani will keep us all safe.

Thank you. Turning to the Hangman, the foundling nodded and said, Remember, Junior Yimu will be in touch, so let him know if anything suspicious crops up. You got everything you need here?

Wouldnt say no to a Divinity or three, Jorani quipped, and Binesi found himself agreeing with the sentiment. Then again, if matters got so far out of hand that a Divinity needed to step in, then chances were theyd all die regardless. But yea, unless ye changed yer mind about Siyar.

He has other duties to attend to tonight, the foundling replied, and from the stilted tone of his voice, he was none too pleased at the Hangman for mentioning the man, which was curious indeed. Who was Siyar and why didnt the foundling want Binesi hearing about him?

Sorry bossman, Jorani whispered, before snapping to attention. But Anrhis right. Me, Ral, and the boys herell die before letting anything happen to yer pets, ye can count on that.

Dont be stupid. Though obviously conflicted, the foundling said, Do what you can to get my pets out safe, but dont die for them. If push comes to shove then... then set them free and run. Maybe theyll escape on their own, or I can come back and get them later.

Might as well try and drag a soul back from the Fathers Maw, but from the looks of things, the foundling knew as much and was only saying it to keep his soldiers from dying for rabbits, which was the right call. They wouldnt even have this problem if the foundling trained his pets right, or kept to raising proper animals like horses and quins, but it was far too late for regrets.

Still, it was clear the foundling loved all his critters, and it was mildly distressing to watch him say farewell to each of them in turn, enough so that Binesi didnt snap and hurry him along. Once finished with his pets, he said his silent farewells to his family and betrotheds, as was the way of the mountains. There was a time when navigating through the treacherous snowy passes ended in death more often than not, so wakes were held before the explorers set out so as to get it all over and done with. Then, if the explorers did return, then mere survival was worth celebrating, for it was a return from near certain death itself. Much better than clinging to fragile hopes for years without end, or worse, falling to pieces if the party returned without your loved ones. It was all about managing expectations and giving people something to hope for, because Mother knows Binesi was looking forward to reuniting with his loved ones back at the Northern Citadel as soon as this whole mess was over.

Since most of the foundlings loved ones were still muddled with Insight, it didnt take long to get through his goodbyes, and all too soon, he stood sloppily at attention in front of Binesi and snapped off a lacklustre salute. Major Binesi, he said, with a half-smile that would have any sergeant worth his salt fuming at this flagrant lack of respect, Private Falling Rain, reporting for duty.

It was so strange to look down at the foundling and work through all these conflicting emotions. By all rights, he should have long since succumbed to the trials and tribulations behind him, whether it be his arrogant and outrageous behaviour during the Society contests, his near suicidal attempt to kill the Butcher Yo Ling, his contemptuous showing at the Imperial Grand Conference, his protracted tour out beyond the front lines, and a thousand other steps along his Path which should have seen him stumble and fall, yet here he was, as bold and brazen as ever. The foundling was an idiot, an endless font of needless frustration who spat in the eye of conventional wisdom and survived only by the mercy of the Mother Above.

So wide it could easily fit eight wagons abreast, the avenue was packed with crowds of curious onlookers hoping for a glimpse into the lives of the wealthy elites. Curiously enough, a good number of them cheered as the foundlings convoy passed by, with cries of Falling Rain, Undying Savage, Imperial Consort and Guardian Attendant aplenty. There were more cheers for the turtle herself, but from the sounds of things, she was probably the most popular guest at the banquet by far. Strange to see how he still had the love of the people, but Binesi never did understand why people loved cheering for a dark horse.

Aside from a handful of devout Mother-Lovers who Binesi almost mistook for assassins, and a whole host of dark glares from less important nobles who had not been invited to join in the festivities, the convoy soon arrived at their destination without incident. Breaking away from the group, Binesi retreated into Concealment and watched the foundling ascend the carpeted stairs with his family and guards, strolling into the massive banquet hall with head held high and posture utterly relaxed, as if he truly believed this banquet was being thrown in his honour. Behind him, the Guardian Turtle played her part perfectly by sticking close like a jealous lover, encircling the foundling so that anyone attacking from any angle risked striking her instead.

If Binesi didnt know any better, he mightve thought the foundling trained the Guardian Turtle to protect him, but he wasnt the type. He loved his pets, every last one of them, and despite what he told his man Jorani, the foundling was unquestionably willing to die for them. Stupid, but loving someone too much was hardly a fault worth criticizing, even if said someone was an idiot rabbit.

As the foundling entered the banquet hall and moved out of Binesis sight, he cursed the little fool once more for not making room in his honour guard for at least one more Peak Expert. It was nerve-wracking not being able to see what was going on, but at least he could still hear. The Herald was announcing the foundling now, but no one else, not Sarnai as Baatars wife or Alsantset as a Major herself. The first hidden barb of the night, snubbing the foundlings family, but he took it in stride and corrected the Herald in a polite and almost apologetic tone while also handing him a pre-written guest-list which he politely requested be read exactly as written. Good, good, the foundling expected this to happen and reacted appropriately, and while some would mock him for being so thoroughly prepared, one could hardly fault a soldier for anticipating his enemys moves and reacting accordingly. Still, Binesi didnt agree with the foundlings tone while correcting the Herald, for the man had no doubt taken a bribe to snub them. Anger would only give the foundlings enemies reason to laugh, but act too timid and the predators would sense blood in the water and pounce. Wait, perhaps thats what he wanted, and he was merely baiting the hook in advance, but if Binesi could see this, then those practised politicians inside could probably do the same, and the foundling knew it, so what was the point?

...This was why Binesi stayed away from politics. He hated reading into every gesture and action, or putting up with idiots he wouldnt cross the street to piss on if someone set them ablaze.

Cracking the barest hint of a smile as the Herald announced the foundlings family, Binesi celebrated the minor victory, but once the Herald was done, the foundling disappeared into the sea of noise clamouring from within the banquet hall. With nothing to do besides twiddle his thumbs, he counted the long seconds and waited for the Colonel General to arrive, but Central Nobles had an obsession with hierarchy and procedure, and since Nian Zu was set to arrive with the highest guest of honour, Chen Hongji, this meant they would be the very last group to enter.

Which, now that he thought about it, meant the foundlings early arrival was yet another snub. Hmph, let these Central bastards play their childish games, Falling Rain would see his way through them, just like he turned things so neatly against that idiot opera singer, Ken-Shibu.

As the night wore on, various hotshots of the Empire arrived in staggered fashion, mostly a bunch of self-important coin-counters who had no place in a military celebration, but it was less about what one did than who one knew. More foolish games, excluding the same men and women this banquet was meant to honour and celebrate, but no decent soldier would care to rub elbows with the idiots inside anyways. Except of course for Binesi, who desperately hoped the foundling would have the decency to at least wait until the Colonel General arrived before metaphorically shitting the bed, for distant waters could not quench a nearby fire.

Finally, the stream of guests slowed down to a trickle, and it was finally the Colonel Generals turn to go in. First was Shuai Jiao, marching inside with his Disciple, Yong-Jin, at his side, a poor entourage for someone of his status, but rather fitting in terms of disposition. Centrals Nian Zu had barely even dressed up for the occasion and arrived in plain brown robes, though these ones were made of silk rather than his usual hemp. In contrast, the soft-spoken Yong-Jin, wore much more luxurious clothes, including a colourfully embroidered yellow robe under a fine red-silk vest which bore his name on both shoulders. Though common-born, Yong-Jin certainly looked like a spoiled young master, even if he lacked the customary entitled arrogance which came with the territory, and seemed a mite uncomfortable in his voluminous trappings.

Next to enter was the Sword King, Ryo Dae Jung, alongside his talented family and a full complement of high-status warriors, though none had served at Sinuji as far as Binesi could tell. Even from afar, the Ryos looked like the perfect Martial Family, with two Peak Expert parents and three phenomenally talented youngsters, all of whom were elaborately dressed, coiffed, and bejewelled. Barring catastrophe, the Ryo familys rise was all but unstoppable, save for the slow emergence of a third generation to carry on the family name and legacy.

In contrast, the Mitsue Familys star was quickly fading from sight, but that didnt stop the Obsidian Shadow from strutting about as he led his peacocked children and grandchildren out to the banquet. Three generations of Mitsue family scions, and both younger generations made for a sorry sight indeed, wastrels one and all with not a single spine between the lot of them. A damn shame about Mitsue Hideo, for there was a boy who showed promise, but it was strange that the boys civilian father had died in Sinuji as well. What was he even doing there? Helping Watanabe with the logistics perhaps? Mother knows the idiot could barely read a map, so that was probably it.

And honestly, why did Central, the safest of all the outer provinces, need three Colonel Generals when the other outer provinces made do with one? Hell, the Southern Colonel General was so busy he wasnt even coming to the banquet, and instead dispatched his second-in-command here to represent him.

At long last, Colonel General Nian Zu finally arrived, riding atop the behemoth warhorse he secured from Mother knows where. The Living Legend was many things, but a practised equestrian he was not, which made sense since he had little reason to ever ride out beyond the Wall. Regardless of his lacking skills, he did a passable job pretending to be one as he sat still and gave the beast free rein, who was more than happy to follow the mare bearing Chen Hongji beside him. All around the avenue, the crowd let loose with deafening cheers for the Architect of Sinuji, the man who set in motion a plan which killed a half-million Defiled in a single blow.

What a blaze that was, like a fiery inferno sent down by the Mother Above, all thanks to Chen Hongjis tireless efforts and Falling Rains curious mind.

Oddly enough, the man of the hour was here alone, with no other members of the Chen family to accompany him. Were his wife and children safely hidden away, or had some Imperial already taken them hostage? Difficult to say, but Binesi hoped it was the former, rather than the latter. Moving in to take his place in the honour guard, he fell in line as the Colonel General Sent, Well done getting the boy this far. I know it could not have been easy.

By your will, Colonel General, Binesi Sent, flushing with pride from the simple compliment. Thirty-seven years, hed served at Nian Zus side, and still the Living Legend filled him with awe. With luck, the foundling might even make it out alive, though I confess Ill feel much better once I have him back in my sights.

One thing, Major, Nian Zu Sent, half-turning in his saddle before thinking better of it. Once we are inside, make no moves without my express orders, understood?

Binesis acknowledgement was halfway out before the Colonel Generals orders sank in, and he did something hed never done before. He hesitated, balked at a direct order, just to consider what the Colonel General intended. ...Sir. You mean to abandon the foundling?

No, of course not. Taking no offence at Binesis reservations, the Colonel Generals shoulders slumped ever so slightly. ...But weve done all we can for the boy. Anything that happens in there, happens by the will of the Legate, you understand? Without waiting for an answer, Nian Zu continued, You and I both know Falling Rain deserves better, but I fear he will be sorely disappointed tonight. No matter how sharp his eyes and mind prove to be, the Supreme Families still seek to discredit him, if not worse. Even if the boy survives, which I worry is not likely, how much longer do you think Baatar will stand silently by while his sons reputation is tarnished and smeared?

Sir... What do you know that you arent telling me? That you havent told him?

Binesi, old friend. Having reached the stairs, Nian Zu dismounted from his horse and took in Binesis crestfallen expression, and for a moment, the Colonel General looked... defeated. Then he steeled his resolve, and he was the Living Legend Nian Zu once more, as valiant and honourable as ever. Ive no information, but there is nothing more I can do for the boy. Things have gone well for him thus far and I hope for the best, but I also fear the worst. Ive no proof of what lies ahead, just a gut instinct which warns of danger, and I havent survived this long by ignoring my instincts. Tomorrow, I might well be forced to march against my second-in-command and put down his ill-fated rebellion. I cannot afford to lose anyone else, whether it be you or any of the fine soldiers under my command, not in service to what might well be a lost cause. I pray for the boys success, but his life is in the Mothers hands now, so you will not act without my express orders, understood?

...By your command, Colonel General.

A phrase Binesi had lived by for thirty-seven years, but tonight, the words rang... hollow.

Chapter Meme