"The world calls it extraordinary, yet to heroes it is commonplace. Wherever Your Highness turns, you stand beyond the measures of this world."
"It is because I stand beyond the measures of this world that I have gained an age-defining talent such as you! Today, let us raise our sails, cleave the waters, and go forth to pacify the realm. What say you?"
"The vanguard will drive straight into the heart of the river! Advance when you see the flag, and do not look back!"
"I think he's forgotten who stands above whom! Then I shall teach him! Pass on my order: strip him of all authority at once, leaving him only the empty title of Military Commander!"
"Zhi Yan, Zhi Yan, you said it yourself! You said our chances were still fifty-fifty! You must have a way, don't you?!"
"Your Highness! Your Highness!"
The Prince of Badong jolted awake and seized the long saber beside him.
"Your Highness! It's your servant, Guo Wenyuan! We've found water and food!"
Guo Wenyuan and three mounted guards knelt on one knee amid the wild grass, all dusty-faced and exhausted.
The Prince of Badong stared blankly for a moment. The panic slowly faded from his eyes, and his throat bobbed as he fixed his gaze on the waterskin in Guo Wenyuan's hand.
Guo Wenyuan hurriedly offered it to him.
"Your Highness, have some water first-"
The Prince of Badong snatched the waterskin and gulped down several great mouthfuls. Somewhat revived, he asked quietly:
"Anything to eat?"
"Yes!"
Guo Wenyuan presented a piece of cloth cut from his robe, holding something that looked like wild greens.
"We searched for ages, but this was all we found. This is-"
Ravenous, the Prince of Badong grabbed a handful without caring what it was and stuffed it