The King's Eyes, Gleaming Radiance Reflecting the Setting Sun

The setting sun sank in the west, spilling ten thousand fathoms of rosy light that dyed the mountain camp red. That magnificent crimson seeped in through the side curtains of the great tent, lending splendor to the plain white canvas and stamping it with a few streaks of flowing radiance.

"Flowing radiance and splendor mirror the setting sun..."

Xolotl sat cross-legged in the great tent, set down the brush in his hand, and gazed at the strange sight on the horizon. A smile appeared on his face. He recited half a broken line of verse, but could not find a satisfying continuation.

"Hmm... next, it should be..."

"Your Highness, are you tired? Please let Shadow Slave massage you and ease your mind..."

Nashu wore leather armor and was dressed as a warrior, grinding ink at his side. Seeing Xolotl's movement, she rose gracefully and came behind the king. Then the graceful woman warrior knelt on the ground, carefully supported His Highness's nape, and let it rest against her soft thighs. A pair of nimble, fair hands soon stroked the king's cheeks, gently kneading and soothing them.

"Haa..."

Xolotl closed his eyes, breathed in the familiar fragrance of her body, and let out a long, comfortable breath.

Ever since setting out on campaign in December, his hands had been full of complicated military and civil affairs. Reports from every level of the army gathered before him, all requiring his decisions, leaving hardly a single day's rest. Behind these decisions lay the great authority of the Southern Legion, which could not lightly be handed over to anyone else.

Xolotl had originally thought to do as he had during the Western Expedition and let his father serve as deputy marshal, handling the complex logistical affairs. But his father had refused with a smile,