"General Gu, you received promotions and honors today, basking in boundless glory. I came to ask for a cup of wine. You don't mind, do you?"
The Second Prince strolled over with a hint of an amused smile on his face.
Though Gu Chenfeng knew he had come with ill intent, he still rose with a smile.
"What are you saying, Second Prince? Your Highness honors me by offering a toast. I am overwhelmed!"
The two drank a cup of wine in seeming harmony.
But the Second Prince turned sideways, looking at the three young officers behind him as he introduced them to Gu Chenfeng.
"General Gu, allow me to introduce these three. They are the adopted sons of my imperial uncle, the Sea-Calming King.
"All three are accomplished young officers from the South Sea battlefield, and my uncle holds them in high regard.
"They have long admired your reputation, General Gu, and specifically asked me to introduce them."
Gu Chenfeng looked at the three men.
The man at their head was powerfully built, like an iron tower, with a leopard-like head and round eyes. His sharp gaze carried an air of forcefulness and aggression.
"I am Li Yanbao, commander of the Sea-Shaking Army, Principal Fourth Rank General of Martial Valor, and my adoptive father's eldest son!"
Another was tall and broad, with a tiger's back, a wasp's waist, and eyes like a hawk.
"I am Li Yanying, deputy commander of the Sea-Shaking Army, Subordinate Fourth Rank General Who Pacifies the Distant, and my adoptive father's second son."
The third was considerably more slender than the other two, with delicate features. Though clad in armor, he had a scholarly air.
"I am Li Yanhu, an assistant general of the Sea-Shaking Army, Subordinate Fourth Rank General Who Pacifies the Distant, and