Taming the Bison

Night lay heavy, drifting into the flickering firelight of the High Priest's Mansion; clouds piled layer upon layer, hiding the flawless mirror of the full moon. Shadows fell from the ceiling of the bedchamber, shrouding the young king as he tossed and turned. This night was so very long, filled with silent thought.

Nashu kept watch quietly in the corner, not disturbing him at all. She simply stayed with the sleepless His Highness patiently, like a shadow.

Only when the morning star rose and faint light brightened in the east did Xolotl let out a long, distant sigh. A plain, straightforward poem welled up in his heart, and, as if moved by ghosts and gods, he recited it aloud.

"Taizong raised righteous troops at eighteen, white yak-tail banner and yellow axe settling the two capitals. He captured Chong and slew Dou, clearing the four seas; at twenty-four, his great work was complete. At twenty-nine, he ascended the imperial throne; at thirty-five, he brought about great peace..."

When he reached this point, Xolotl suddenly stopped, alarmed in his heart. He sat up and looked toward Nashu in the corner, whose face was blank with confusion.

"Your Highness, what were you reciting just now?"

Nashu blinked, revealing a catlike gaze of curiosity.

Xolotl's expression shifted. Only after quite a while did he answer in a low voice.

"That was a poem, praising a king whose brilliance shone across all ages. That king performed many great deeds. Some are things I wholeheartedly wish to do, and some are things I am unwilling to imitate."

Nashu tilted her head and thought for a moment. His Highness tonight seemed a little melancholy, and appeared especially delicious... She licked her lips and advised softly.

"Dawn is almost here. You have not slept all night. Would you