Tales of the mystic love

22 # The battle starts

In the grand ceremony, each Prince and Princess showcased their regality, presenting gifts that reflected their kingdoms' richness and heritage. After nearly an hour of these noble displays, King Xiaobo declared a brief respite for preparation, granting the royal attendees the opportunity to explore the palace.
Seizing this chance, Xiaobo clandestinely ventured to the palace garden, where Princess Cui and Prince Lui engaged in a discreet conversation. The political intricacies were apparent, as even though they held titles of Prince and Princess, their origins in different kingdoms meant they needed to be cautious.
The enigmatic Lui Jing Army, led by both Cui Jing and Lui Xiang, is oneof the most formidable and strong army. But what put Lui Xiang and Cui Jing in dilemma is the Xiaoing army -a power dynamic army which demanded a cautious approach.
XIAOING ARMY- A colossal entity boasting a manpower of a million, the Xiaoing army had etched its name in history by conquering vast territories. Their reputation as a bulwark against tyrannical rulers resonated, as they had toppled kingdoms that had oppressed their subjects.
The Xiaoing army, however, wasn't just known for its military might; it was the mystery surrounding the identities of its leaders that captivated the imaginations of courtiers and commoners alike.
The general and vice general, orchestrators of strategic brilliance, obscured their faces from public view, creating an aura of mystique. Rumors abounded – were they divine emissaries, disfigured individuals, or beings with demonic prowess? The answers eluded everyone, adding an air of intrigue to the unfolding drama.
The Xiaoing army's prowess was exemplified in a legendary feat, where the leader and vice captain, facing a formidable force of a hundred soldiers, emerged victorious with unparalleled finesse. The vice captain, known for his swift and agile movements, glided across the battlefield like a specter on ice during close combat, leaving adversaries in awe.
The leaders' commitment to anonymity persisted even during formal peace negotiations, creating an enigma that fueled speculation and gossip. The palace, a stage for both political machinations and martial prowess, bore witness to a captivating drama, where the masked leaders of Xiaoing held the reins of power in their gloved hands.
"Again thinking about those two?" inquired Cui, her curiosity evident in the arch of her brow.
"Absolutely! They left an indelible mark on my mind. Meeting them would be fascinating – hearing their story, unraveling the mystery behind their success. Imagine, back then a modest group of only 1000 followers, yet they've conquered numerous states and lands. Their organization boasts specialized sections for defense, attack, spies, and more," Lui Xiang enthused with a gleam in his eyes.
Cui Jing, who had grown accustomed to Lui Xiang's fascination with the enigmatic leaders, couldn't help but roll her eyes. "I've heard this countless times – your desire to challenge and befriend them. Spare me the repetition. By the way, where is the Second Prince? We've been waiting here for ages!" Impatience laced her words, fueled not only by the delay but also by the presence of Xiaobo, particularly the intriguing boy standing beside him. Since their encounter, she had been eagerly anticipating Xiaobo's arrival to inquire about the mysterious companion.
As if on cue, Xiaobo emerged, accompanied by Lian. In the complex dynamics of the royal gathering, Princes and Princesses were granted the liberty to bring as many attendants as they wished, and the Second Prince had gone relatively unnoticed in the commotion of the event.
Sorry for being late. I had to make some preparations before coming," Xiaobo apologized with a graceful bow.
"It's okay. Tell us, why did you want to meet us?" inquired Cui Jing, her gaze direct and curious.
Xiaobo, meeting her gaze, posed a counter-question, "May I ask why you agreed to meet me?" His eyes focused on Cui Jing, seeking an answer.
"Well, maybe to taste some tea of the Palace. What do you think?" Lui interjected with a mischievous glint in his eye.
Xiaobo, smirking slightly, reciprocated with a bow, "I hope you are not disappointed
Unexpectedly, in a display of both surprise and amusement, Lui Xiang tossed a small cup of tea toward Xiaobo with considerable force. The tea lightly spilled on Xiaobo's shoulder, but the cup, along with the remaining contents, crashed to the ground, leaving only a stain on his attire.