Xiang An returned to the Xiang siblings' residence with Zi Juan and Zi Huai. They were all generals or people close to generals, so their quarters were fairly concentrated.
Zi Huai trailed at the very back, holding Zi Juan's hand with his head lowered, though he occasionally looked up at Xiang An.
The meaning in his gaze was unclear, but it made Xiang An somewhat uncomfortable.
As they turned a corner near the edge of the city, they ran into Huang Xiaozhong, a messenger at Xiang Liang's side.
"Ah, General, I've been looking for you." Huang Xiaozhong looked energetic. He took a slight step back and cupped his hands in salute toward Xiang An.
"No need for formalities. Does the Grand General need something from me?" Xiang An knew that ever since Huang Xiaozhong had caught Xiang Liang's eye, he had remained at Xiang Liang's side. If Huang Xiaozhong had come looking for him, it meant Xiang Liang wanted him.
"The Grand General asked me to relay this: after you arrange this afternoon's training, bring Han Xin to the council hall. He has some matters to arrange." Huang Xiaozhong grew serious as he conveyed Xiang Liang's orders.
"I understand." Xiang An nodded to indicate that he had received the order.
Huang Xiaozhong gave a slight bow before turning and leaving. It seemed he had other duties to attend to.
"That guy runs fast, and he's a good rider too. No wonder Father took a liking to him." Zi Juan shrugged.
"Yeah. Let's go." Xiang An's expression became serious. "It looks like the Grand General is about to make a major move. Be ready to march at any time."
"This subordinate obeys!" Zi Juan instinctively stiffened and replied with cupped fists, startling Zi Huai into jumping aside.
"Uh... A-Shu, you..." Zi