Children of the Zodiacs

prologue

30 years ago

'Congratulations on winning the Great Race,' the Jade Emperor looked at him with pride.
Shu bowed his head and smiled softly when he saw that the emperor was pleased.

'I have to say,' he continued, 'I was very surprised when I saw you at the finish line first. Though I knew you were intelligent and knowledgeable, I have always thought of you to be lacking in this particular area. I will be expecting more pleasant surprises from you in the future.'

'Your Majesty,' Shu started, 'Please rely on me and trust me. I will not disappoint you'.
The emperor nodded with approval, then frowned as if something was worrying him. 'Something must have happened to Mao as he did not join the race. It is not like him to miss such an important event.'
He paused, then leaned forward with curiosity. 'As his closest friend I assume you would know something?'

Shu hesitated then said in a soft voice, 'I am afraid I have terrible news to inform you. The truth is, Mao did participate in the race.' He paused for a moment to see the emperor's reaction, then taking a deep breath he continued with a shaky voice, 'We decided to work together at the start of the race with Niu, and with our skills combined we were well ahead of our competitors. When we arrived at the river, we took a break and Mao volunteered to take the first watch while we rested. However to our surprise, we woke to find Mao on the other side of the bridge trying to cut it down. Niu and I rushed across the bridge and managed to make it just in time right before the bridge fell. I was furious and hurt by his betrayal and we got into a fight. Mao, still desperate to win, tried to push me off into the river however as I dodged, he tripped and fell in instead. I am ashamed to say that I was forced to watch as he was swept away by the river's current as there was nothing I could do. I feel responsible and I do not deserve this position after something so terrible had happened.'

The Jade Emperor sat in silence trying to process this information. Eventually he firmly but gently reassured Shu, 'Though it is devastating that one of our comrades had to leave us in such a dishonorable way, I do not blame you for such an unfortunate event as there was nothing you could have done. What is important right now is for you to fulfil your duty as the Emperor's General and to serve me and my people.'

Shu let a tear drop down his cheek then bowed his head. 'Yes, Your Majesty.'