Vast River and Mountain Landscape
Gideon Astor responded to the comments with only a smile. Beside him, Emeric Astor felt a pang of bitterness, thinking, "Teacher, you really know how to bring up the most uncomfortable subjects."
But his teacher wasn't wrong. The real catalyst for Emeric's change wasn't just the severe injuries from three years ago, but also a stern word from his uncle, Gideon Astor.
Emeric remembered that day vividly. His uncle had stood a hundred meters away, gazing coldly at him as he lay bloodied and defeated on the ground. Without a word, his uncle's steely gaze instilled a primal fear in Emeric, like being watched by a prehistoric beast. Then his uncle's voice, low and icy, reached him, "Remember, you are an Astor, son of Thane Astor, the future ruler of Avaloria. If you fail, I will kill you myself. Your father will not blame me and will appoint a new heir."
That statement froze the boiling emotions of fear, hatred, and revenge inside Emeric, sending a chill throughout his body. Even now, holding his wine cup, Emeric shivered slightly at the memory.
While chatting with Emeric and Elowen Astor about the latest news from the Emperor and the princes in Dragon City, Gideon turned his attention to the silver-haired, hearty-eating elder, Marshal Wan Bing.
"Marshal Wan, are the Nan Island and Rizhen countries still causing trouble in the southeastern waters?" Gideon inquired.
Hearing this, Wan Bing put down his food and looked at Gideon solemnly. "Thanks to your concern, Lord Gideon. Without the deterrent force of your northwestern army, the small nations of Nan and Rizhen often defy our Avalorian authority. They frequently send pirates to our southeastern borders."
Wan Bing's expression was a mix of worry and frustration as he spoke about the ongoing troubles caused by these island nations.
Gideon immediately reassured him, "Marshal Wan, you've been leading battles for over forty years. The pirate problem at the southeastern border has been a longstanding issue. You shouldn't blame yourself."
Gideon Astor, holding substantial military power and influence as a vassal king of Avaloria, showed no arrogance towards Marshal Wan, an elder statesman and war hero who fought alongside Avaloria's founder, Alaric Astor. Wan Bing's dedication and sacrifices, including his sons in battle, were well recognized by Gideon.
After his troops' final stand, Marshal Wan Bing lost both his sons in battle and was grievously injured himself. When he was about to take his own life to avoid capture, reinforcements arrived just in time to save him. Despite the tragic loss of his sons, Wan Bing harbored no resentment, remaining utterly loyal to Avaloria, ready to lay down his life at any moment. "My sons died on the battlefield, I have no peace. I'm always ready to join them," he would say. His contributions and sacrifices earned him both his high rank and the deep respect of everyone, including Gideon Astor.
However, Marshal Wan Bing seemed troubled despite Gideon's comforting words. "My lord, a lack of foresight leads to imminent worries. If we don't address these issues promptly, they will turn into greater threats. Nan Island and Rizhen countries are crucial areas in our southeastern sea, pivotal for both commerce and military strategy. If not handled decisively, they could become significant threats beyond border harassments."
Wan Bing's earnest concerns instantly dampened the previously lively atmosphere at the table. Everyone's expression turned somber.
Gideon Astor's expression grew serious, his eyebrows knitted together like a dormant thunderstorm. After a moment of silence, he addressed Marshal Wan Bing, "Marshal, give me one year. Stabilize the situation in the southeast for now. In a year, I'll request the Emperor to assign me to the southeastern front. Let me deal with these island bandits personally."
Hearing Gideon's words, Wan Bing, initially despondent, lit up with surprise and delight, "My lord, are you truly going to the southeastern border?"
Not just Wan Bing, but also William Wong, Emeric Astor, Elowen Astor, Orion Astor, Jeam Yew, and the governors of the northwestern counties were all taken aback by Gideon's declaration.
Gideon Astor, known as the Peers King and the King of the Northwest, had kept the entire region stable with his presence. His potential move to the southeastern border was a matter of national importance, potentially affecting the stability of the whole country.
Gideon nodded and said gravely, "Indeed, but I need a year to arrange the military forces in the northwest to prevent any disturbances during my absence."
"Will this affect the stability of the northwest, my lord?" asked Marshal Wan Bing, both excited and concerned about Gideon's decision to personally go to the southeast.
"No worries," Gideon assured. "The situation in the northwest is stable now. No one would dare to create chaos in my absence unless they wish for their own destruction. Besides, I estimate this mission in the southeast will take less than six months. Those two island nations... I think it's time for them to disappear."
His words sent a chill through the crowd, hinting at the gravity of his intentions. The idea that he could settle the longstanding troubles of Nan Island and Rizhen countries within such a short period was astonishing.
"Excellent, very good!" exclaimed Marshal Wan Bing, feeling a mix of surprise and relief. Coming from anyone else, such a bold claim might have been dismissed as brash and unrealistic. But coming from Gideon Astor, the legendary war hero of Avaloria, it carried weight and certainty. Marshal Wan Bing truly believed in Gideon's capability and his commitment to his word.
"Haha, my lord, I toast to you!" Marshal Wan Bing's mood lightened considerably, his worries seemingly washed away. His straightforward demeanor brought life back to the banquet, as he heartily rejoined the festivities.
At the banquet table, Emeric Astor and Orion Astor were engaged in lively conversation, while Elowen Astor listened to William Wong, the Left Minister, share intriguing anecdotes about court life. Marshal Wan Bing and the county governors successively toasted Gideon Astor, creating a jovial atmosphere.
Seizing the moment of high spirits, Marshal Wan Bing, with a flushed face and a hearty laugh, turned to Crown Prince Emeric and Princess Elowen, "Your Highnesses, since we're all enjoying ourselves so much, why not take this opportunity to present your prepared gifts to Lord Gideon? It would be a delight for all of us to see what thoughtful gifts you have prepared."
Following the tradition of presenting personal gifts to the elder during a celebratory banquet, each relative expressed their blessings and affection through their unique gifts. The diverse and creative nature of these presents often sparked curiosity among the guests.
Hearing Marshal Wan Bing's suggestion, Crown Prince Emeric felt compelled to comply, "Indeed, I have prepared a gift for my uncle. I planned to present it after the banquet, but I'm happy to share it with everyone now."
Emeric signaled a servant, who quickly brought forward a tray holding an elegantly wrapped box. Opening the box, Emeric carefully unfurled a scroll, revealing a rich ink brush painting. As he did so, a faint scent of ink wafted through the air, drawing everyone's attention to the artwork.
The painting depicted a dynamic landscape of mountains, with some peaks stretching skywards and others more gently rolling. Lush pines and cypresses thrived amidst the scenery.
A river meandered through the mountains, dotted with numerous boats. On these boats were figures rowing, serving tea, and scholars sitting in contemplation.
Above this idyllic scene, a sun rose in a sky of swirling clouds, casting a radiant glow. Eagles soared, and birds flew across the expansive vista.
At the end of the scroll, a calligraphy inscription added an elegant touch. As the guests admired the painting, William Wong caught Gideon's fleeting glance and felt an intense gaze lock onto him, sending shivers down his spine, like a blade at his throat and a needle at his temple, terrifying in its intensity.