Pei Ye straightened and shook the reins, urging his horse faster. A light breeze brushed his face and robes. Before him lay the broad avenue; on either side, countless faces turned toward him, countless gazes gathered upon him.
Glory and satisfaction truly began to fill Pei Ye's heart to overflowing. Those gazes warmed him with their heat. Riding through the spring breeze, he smiled and waved, and for a fleeting moment, he glimpsed the road ahead of him, his heart brimming with anticipation.
Bowang Garden.
A white blur swept in like a dragon as the boy galloped through the entrance.
Here too, petals filled the air and gongs and drums welcomed him. The people who had long been waiting immediately burst into cheers.
Chang Zhiyuan, Li Weiru, Master Huang, Zhao Zhang, Bai Sibing, and many others were all here. Pei Ye swung down from his horse and greeted them one by one, his smile lingering and his face flushed. Then he looked up and saw that composed, quiet dignitary standing at the entrance, watching him with a smile.
The old man always possessed this quality of standing firm as a pine amid swirling blossoms and brilliant scenery. It settled the swelling emotions in Pei Ye's heart somewhat. He approached and bowed respectfully. "Lord Sui."
Sui Zaihua looked at him and smiled faintly.
The ceremonial official struck the cauldron, making it ring. "May the Martial Champion proceed to Han Pavilion to have his name conferred!"
The officials fell silent and stepped back, clearing a path to the tower entrance for Pei Ye.
From the moment he entered Bowang Garden, the ceremonial attendants had grown visibly more numerous. Compared with the lively celebrations outside on the streets, solemn dignity prevailed here.
Pei Ye looked up at the Moon-Catching Tower. This was