101 Weak Crown

◎Huo Yan: I think you are awesome. I want to be your friend and play with you.◎

June 13th, Huo Yan and Huo Qubing's twentieth birthdays, were just over a fortnight away, yet neither of them took the matter seriously. One was busy training troops, the other busy gathering supplies, never a moment's leisure. They took it lightly, but others didn't. Earlier, Zhufu Yan, Sang Hongyang, and other adoptive fathers had visited Wei Qing for this very reason, and even Ji An had expressed his desire to be the main guest. Wei Qing had no choice but to point to the sky, indicating that he had already appointed the main guest. They weren't fools; they naturally understood who Wei Qing had invited, and for a moment, their reluctance to accept was finally met with admiration.

The Huo twins' biological father seemed almost invisible, but they had many uncles and fathers. After their birthdays, Wei Changjun sent a letter to Li Shaojun, asking him to predict an auspicious date for their youngest son's coming-of-age ceremony. Wei Changjun was indeed a minister, but as the emperor's most favored and renowned alchemist, Li Shaojun didn't dare to refuse his invitation. However, the Huo twins were too famous, and the emperor favored them too much. Any misstep or misfortune would, given the emperor's temperament, be the end of him. Li Shaojun understood perfectly well that the emperor favored them simply because they held onto his hopes for divine attainment. If any sign of that hope was shattered, he would be the first to be slain. Therefore, Li Shaojun didn't want to gamble, and could only delay his reply under the pretext of training.

It wasn't until the Wei family requested permission for the Grand Astrologer to come to the Wei household to divine an auspicious date for the ceremony that he finally showed up and offered to accompany them. Liu Che was naturally delighted. In his heart, Li Shaojun was a true immortal, so his willingness to divine blessings for his two children was a sign of heaven's satisfaction. With a flourish, he dispatched the Grand Master of Ceremonies personally, not only Li Shaojun but also Shao Weng, his most trusted alchemist, to divine the most auspicious date for his two children.

The Wei family ancestral hall was newly built within the Marquis of Changping's residence, occupying a considerable area and consisting of several rows of buildings. This was the home of the most powerful official of the Han Wu Dynasty. Although currently devoid of any ancestor, it lay empty, its grandeur was undeniably impressive. The Wei family had already prepared yarrow, cattail mats, and divination tools for recording the hexagrams and divinations, all of which were displayed in the western academy outside the ancestral hall.

Princess Pingyang ordered people to set up a divination mat outside the door, facing west, waiting for the arrival of Taichang.

When several divine men arrived at the Wei Mansion, regardless of whether they were liars or fools, Wei Ai had their pockets stuffed with money. The old man had difficulty walking, so he was supported by Wei Changjun, who looked at them with expectant eyes.

Everyone was waiting, and Wei Shaoer was grinning from ear to ear, "It's a good day, and I guarantee that our child will have a smooth life in the future."

My son has grown up, and everyone in the Wei family is happy.

Wei Bu left for his new post, while Wei Qing and Wei Guang each rushed back their two nephews, who were busy with government affairs. The one with high attack power was busy training soldiers and armor, and the one Wei Qing had just pulled back from his horse looked like he could hang a pot of oil from his mouth. The one with weaker attack power was one Wei Bu had snatched back from the Ministry of Agriculture. Recently, due to the lack of funds for the war, the Ministry of Agriculture had only agreed to loan out the treasure for half a day. The treasure was just squinting, its eyes barely open, and it was walking like a zombie, completely unable to see anyone.

The two teams happened to meet at the door, and Huo Qubing reached out to pull Huo Yan over. When Huo Yan saw the ghosts and gods in the yard, and the psychic young man, a hint of ridicule flashed in his eyes, but it quickly disappeared. He thought that Liu Che was exorcising evil spirits again, doing this every day. He forced himself to take a look, yawned, and signaled Huo Qubing to let him find a place to take a nap.

Huo Qubing asked him to go to sleep, but he found a door corner at random, leaned against it, closed his eyes, and then fell asleep.

He didn't care about anything, and Wei Qing asked someone to put a robe on him.

"Uncle, what are you doing?" Huo Qubing took off his coat and put it on Huo Yan. Then, seeing the room full of people performing shaman dances, his brows raised. As an atheist, it was fine if he saw them every day at the Weiyang Palace, but he also saw them at home. It would be annoying for anyone. "Let's not believe this."

Wei Qing: ...

Wei Guang: ...

Son, you are twenty years old this year, and you are about to come of age.

After hearing the explanation, Huo Qubing was stunned for a moment, then pursed his lips, unable to hide his joy. After being patted on the shoulders by his uncles, he also squatted at the corner of the wall. He unconsciously shook Huo Yan's hand, "Ayan, Ayan."

Huo Yan woke up in a daze, supporting his face with his hands, his eyes fixed on him.

When Huo Qubing saw him open his eyes, he smiled.

"Ayan, uncle is preparing the coming-of-age ceremony for us."

Huo Yan’s mind was foggy. The coming-of-age ceremony?

He blurted out his concerns, "Don't we need an elder with good moral character and integrity?"

Huo Qubing suddenly fell silent.

The two of them were silent.

Only when Wei Shao'er urged them to change did they slowly rise. As they had entered the imperial court as officials, they were required to wear black caps, court robes, black sashes around their waists, and white knee-guards. They stood on the eastern side of the ancestral hall. Normally, the people standing opposite them would be officials and retainers. Although Wei Huo did not maintain retainers, he did have many officials, especially Wei Qing. He took the initiative to select a senior official named Yao to serve as a retainer. This person, wearing the same attire as Wei Qing, stood on the west side of the ancestral hall.

Then they all watched people perform shamanic rituals. Some were serious, like when the Taichang arrived and simply picked up yarrow, opened the lid of the yarrow tube, held the lid in one hand, sat facing west, and began to tell fortunes. Some were less serious, like the young man, who placed yarrow next to Huo Yan and performed a series of shamanic rituals.

Huo Qubing was so annoyed that he didn't even want to watch it.

Huo Yan even wanted to kick him on the butt, but he held back for a long time.

After the divination was over, several people wrote down the hexagrams they had calculated on paper and personally handed the paper to Wei Changjun.

After a long day of hard work, the group finally determined that June 27th was an auspicious date. Li Shaojun's alchemists even went so far as to praise the young man's prowess. After reviewing the situation, Wei Changjun nodded in satisfaction, thanked him for his hard work, sealed his purse, and then sent the group away.

This whole conversation had annoyed both parties, but now that everyone was happy, they didn't really matter. Huo Yan felt lazy to the core, and he didn't know why everyone was so happy, telling him to grow up, even though he was still a child.

As soon as the auspicious date was announced, the Wei family immediately sent invitations to various mansions, announcing the arrival of a child. Throughout Chang'an, every household of some standing had Wei Qing dispatched invitations. The emperor bestowed upon them crowns and robes that very day, a testament to the emperor's immense importance. Those who wished to exploit the twins' birth remained silent.

Following Wei Changjun's instructions, Wei Guang went to invite the guests of honor. Wei Qing personally invited the principal guest and the assistant guest. Needless to say, the principal guest had already been snatched up by Liu Che, but Wei Qing, after much deliberation, couldn't find a suitable candidate for the assistant guest. He considered himself the father of Huo Yan and the others, and the role of assistant guest had never crossed his mind. Even if someone had suggested it, he probably wouldn't have considered it, because as a father, he was bound to be at the door to greet the guests.

Finally, the entire Wei family came together to come up with the idea and chose Lord Jiang. Wei Qing personally brought Huo Yan and Huo Qubing to the house, and Lord Jiang readily agreed.

This is the beginning. Now, the elders of the main guest and the guest of honor have already been determined. The rest of the invitees and friends are all dependent on Huo Qubing and his friends to post the invitations. However, these two are not interested in the invitations at all. They have many friends, but they are too lazy to move. In the end, Wei Qing helped them to convey a message when he posted the invitation, saying that children of the same age can come if they want, and Huo Yan and his friends are waiting at home.

The uncles and aunts loved them too much, so the coming-of-age ceremony became the responsibility of the elders. As soon as the day was calculated, Wei Ai urged them to go back, saying that they had reached the age of coming-of-age and it was time to have a child.

After saying that, he chased the person away.

Huo Qubing had a blank expression on his face, and Huo Yan acted coquettishly as usual.

After they left the Wei Mansion, Huo Qubing frowned and asked, "Am I useless now?"

Huo Yan just laughed.

"It's useful to have more children."

Huo Qubing remained silent.

After a long moment, he said, "Well, I can't count on you."

Huo Yan laughed again and invited him to get on the carriage. They talked, and Huo Qubing gave up his own horse and got on Huo Yan's carriage with red tassels.

The two chatted casually and agreed to go out together after the war was over.

On the other side, Liu Che tortured Wei Zifu.

"Zifu, how about I wear this when the time comes?"

Early in the morning, Emperor Liu Che did nothing but spread his feathers like a coquettish peacock. In just half a minute, he changed more than a dozen sets of clothes.

Liu Ju had long lost his patience, concentrating on playing with his little fish. Wei Zifu, while outwardly submissive, was deeply annoyed. She saw it as Liu Che's pre-eminence, and she saw him jumping around like that. Qing'er had miscalculated, inviting Liu Che to be the main guest. It was simply unbearable to watch.

Liu Che was so happy that he imagined what he would say, "I asked the Taichang to divine and even gave them names."

He looked expectant. Wei Zifu was speechless in her heart, but she still said expectantly, "Your Majesty has given me a name. I think it will be quite good."

Liu Che stood straight with a gorgeous figure, which made him overshadow the main figure.

"The army is governed by the law, and the punishment of harm is a crime. This is about strict military discipline. Qu Bing did not stick to the old ways, but repeatedly achieved extraordinary feats, defeated the enemy with thunderous force, and achieved long-term peace in the world and pacified the four directions."

Wei Zifu had been with this man for a long time and was already aware of his habit of showing off his knowledge, so she watched him with her eyes and nose, waiting for him to finish reading.

As expected, Liu Che asked, "How about getting rid of the disease and comforting it?"

To pacify means to bring peace to the world and to bring peace to oneself. Heaven-sent champion, the Great Han Chang'an.

Wei Zifu couldn't say anything bad. The emperor had hidden all his ambitions and expectations in this, and Wei Zifu was somewhat moved. Seeing her expression, Liu Che was very proud and said, "The Book of Rites says that the prime minister should spread virtue and orders, celebrate and bestow benefits on the people. In spring, benevolent policies are promulgated, benefiting the people. The spring breeze nurtures and brings life to all things."

"The grass is growing, it's spring."

The Book of Rites says that spring is the time for benevolent government. Emperor Wu of Han was Confucian on the outside and Legalist on the inside; the next reign would surely be benevolent. Huo Yan was the spring breeze he established.

Liu Che looked at Liu Ju who was playing with fish, his eyes filled with the tenderness that was unique to his father's generation.

Wei Zifu's heart trembled and her palms were sweating. The emperor told her almost explicitly that Huo Yan and Huo Qubing would be the future prince's assistants.

She suddenly felt dry mouth.

Seeing her expression, Liu Che smiled and beckoned Liu Ju to come over. "Ju'er, come with me that day and congratulate your brothers."

Liu Ju nodded, not knowing whether he understood or not, and pulled a set of jade pendants from his waist, "I'm giving this as a gift, and your Majesty requested it yourself."

Liu Che's laughter stopped completely after Liu Ju used his wet claws to drip water all over his chest.

"Liu Juer!"

Before the sound came, Liu Ju grabbed the jade pendant and ran away.

Tsk, who can outrun me!

The "Book of Rites" records that rituals begin with the coming of age, are based on marriage, are emphasized on funerals and sacrifices, are respected at court visits, and are harmonious at archery. This is the general outline of rituals.

The coming-of-age ceremony is the most important of all ceremonies. The fact that the Huo twins ascended to high positions and were granted titles of nobility before their coming-of-age ceremony attracted countless people to come and greet them.

Today, the Marquis of Changping's residence welcomed guests. The vermilion lacquered gates were wide open, and the interior was draped with festive red silk. In the center of the courtyard, a spotless bluestone dais stood. Three wooden chests, painted with lacquer and gilded, lay quietly on a mat, covered in dark brocade. The brocade was peeled back, revealing three crowns within, bearing the weight of fate. The initial crown, made of coarse black linen, symbolized the beginning of adulthood and the responsibility of governing. While this crown was sufficient for ordinary people, Huo Yan and his companions required the addition of a leather cap, sewn from snow-white deerskin and embellished with multicolored jade beads, a symbol of bravery and military merit. Finally, the crown, adorned with a noble title, was as red and black as a sparrow's head, adorned with rich silk and a majestic jade scale. This was the honor bestowed upon a nobleman.

At the host's seat, Wei Qing wore the most formal Xuanduan formal attire: a wide-sleeved robe, a black skirt, and a jade belt around his waist. His posture remained as straight as a pine or cypress, his gaze calmly scanning the roomful of guests. Only his slightly pursed lips and his hands resting on his knees, their knuckles slightly white from exertion, betrayed the uncle's nervousness. Wei Changjun had originally intended for the event to take place at the Wei residence, but Wei Qing's efforts, coupled with the twins' insistence, led to the decision to hold the event at the Changping Marquis' residence.

Liu Che, the guest of honor for this coming-of-age ceremony, hadn't arrived yet, but Jiang Gong, the congratulator, had arrived early, even drafting the congratulatory speech himself. Yesterday evening, the Wei family had already sent him gifts and a note with an auspicious date and time, as per ancient ritual. He had reciprocated with two pieces of jade as a congratulatory gift for the twins' coming-of-age ceremony. The old man cheerfully approached, looking for the guest of honor. His face brightened considerably when he asked Wei Qing who the guest of honor was.

By noon, countless guests had already arrived outside the Wei family's gate, and the Changping Marquis's residence was bustling with activity. Everyone who saw it was amazed. Some passersby even wondered if they were hosting a birthday party or a wedding, and why such a grand display was necessary.

When the people from the Marquis of Changping's residence told them this was merely the coming-of-age ceremony, they were even more amazed. But once they learned the identity of the person conducting it, it all became a matter of course. The Huo twins, that wasn't surprising; if he had sons as promising as these, he'd have held a grand ceremony, too.

At three quarters past noon, drums and music suddenly began to play, the golden bells and jade chimes ringing in a solemn and solemn manner. Suddenly, from the palace gate, the eunuchs' distinctive, piercing, shrill voice announced, "Your Majesty has arrived—!"

The sound was like a huge rock dropped into a quiet lake, creating ripples. The entire room, filled with princes, generals, ministers, and nobles, all prostrated themselves on the ground, their foreheads touching the cold bluestone. "Welcome, Your Majesty! May Your Majesty live forever!"

Huo Yan, who was wearing brighter clothes than him and was following Huo Qubing to greet the guests, rolled his eyes in his heart and knelt down behind Wei Qing.

Liu Che, clad in splendid attire, arrived with the gait of a dragon and a tiger, flanked by the Weiyang Palace's guards. Behind him followed Liu Ju, who helped Wei Qing to his feet. Liu Ju then helped Huo Qubing and Huo Yan to their feet. Liu Che laughed heartily, "General, please stand! Gentlemen, please stand! Today is the day when my Marquis Guanjun and Marquis Tai'an will be crowned. I have come as the guest of honor to crown and bestow titles upon my right-hand men!"

The room fell silent for a moment, then erupted in deeper inhalations and uncontrollable whispers of admiration. It was rare for the emperor to personally attend a minister's coming-of-age ceremony, but personally crowning twins and bestowing them with names was an unprecedented favor! Wei Qing bowed deeply, "Your Majesty, your grace is immense. I, Wei Qing, thank you on your behalf! My two sons are young and unworthy, so I dare not trouble Your Majesty to personally perform this ceremony!"

Huo Yan and Huo Qubing also clasped their fists and bowed, looking terrified.

Liu Che said, "I am crowning you both today. Seeing you both come of age, I am very pleased."

Huo Yan and Huo Qubing were watching him from behind, all dressed in glitter, and they almost thought in unison, "Are you here to show off?"

Of course, no matter what they thought, their faces were full of respect, and there was nothing wrong with them.

It was the auspicious time predicted by several masters.

At this time, the guests invited by the Wei family had all arrived. Wei Qing took Huo Qubing and Huo Yan's hands and went to the ancestral hall.

Today, he presided over the coming-of-age ceremony for the twins he had single-handedly raised, acting not only as an uncle but also as a father. Wei Qing's chest felt like boiling magma. He looked back at the two children, who smiled at him almost simultaneously. Qu Bing's body and Ah Yan's temperament had once worried him deeply, but now, they had grown up, calling him uncle, shouldering the heavy burden on his shoulders, one on each side.

Good boy, good boy.

He couldn't control his heart and felt so proud that it was beyond words.

After the sacrifice, Huo Yan and Huo Qubing, wearing red-edged robes symbolizing boys, stood side by side at the steps. They both had the same tall stature, the same almond-shaped eyes and red lips.

Even in his slightly childish robes, Huo Qubing possessed a presence like the still waters of a deep pool. Huo Yan, on the other hand, was smaller in stature, his features softer and more restrained. His eyelids drooped slightly, his long lashes casting a faint shadow beneath his eyes, a youthful beauty radiating from his left and right.

Liu Che walked to the main seat, his expression solemn. The chanter sang loudly, "Please put on the black cloth crown for the main guest!"

Liu Che took the coarse black linen crown from a wooden chest and slowly walked over to Huo Qubing. The emperor personally untied the silk sash that bound his hair, combed his dark hair, and then firmly placed the black crown on his head. His movements were accompanied by an unmistakable strength.

This black cloth crown indicates that he is qualified to participate in politics and is no longer a child.

Liu Che then moved in front of Huo Yan. With the same solemnity, he tied Huo Yan's hair and put on a crown. He looked into Huo Yan's clear eyes beneath his drooping eyelids and gently patted his shoulder.

After Guan Cheng was crowned, Liu Che gazed at their young but resolute faces.

Jiang Gong sang, "On this auspicious day of the month, I will wear the first robes. Let go of your childish ambitions and cultivate virtue. May you live a long and healthy life and enjoy great happiness."

It seems like I grew up in the blink of an eye.

Liu Che had thought of many things to say, but in the end he said nothing.

After adding the black cloth crown, the attendant carrying the first set of formal attire led Huo Yan and Huo Qubing to the side room. After they changed into dark black robes and red and black knee-covers, they came out and bowed to the crowd.

After the ceremony, Jiang Gong, as the apprentice, stepped forward to help them take off their black cloth crowns, comb their hair and put on jade hairpins.

The praiser sang again, "Please ask the main guest to put on the leather cap for the crown!"

The snow-white deerskin hat, embellished with colorful jade beads symbolizing the circulation of the five elements, was solemnly placed on their heads by Liu Che.

When Liu Che doesn't speak, he is quite intimidating. At least Huo Yan now thinks he is quite suitable.

Lord Jiang sang a congratulatory speech, "In this auspicious month and day, I present you with my robes. I respect your dignity and prudent virtue. May you live a long life and receive eternal blessings."

Tears welled up in the corners of Wei Qing's eyes.

He was so proud to see his children grow up.

It seemed like the blink of an eye.

After Huo Yan bowed, he followed the second servant to the side room to change clothes. When they came out, he and Huo Qubing were wearing black robes and red skirts with large patches of luxurious cloud patterns on them and jade embellishments at their waists.

They thanked the host and praised the guests, then stood up and went outside the hall to pay their respects to the guests.

When they entered the hall, Lord Jiang sang a blessing speech, "In the right year, in the order of the month, all are blessed. Brothers are here to complete your virtue. Huang Niu has no boundaries and receives the blessing of heaven."

Liu Che took the eight-inch wide and one foot six-inch long peacock-colored cap and put it on them.

After Huo Yan and Huo Qubing exchanged greetings, they followed the last attendant to change their clothes. When they came out, they were wearing a dark silk dress with a purple skirt, which was then rolled up again.

The three crowns have been added, and you have abandoned your childish ambitions.

Just as Wei Qing was about to inform the guests of the name the Wei family had chosen for their child, he heard the emperor's deep voice on the stage, resonating like the clanging of metal. He addressed Huo Qubing, "At your tender age, you have already accomplished achievements that will shock the world! You are my Marquis of Champion, the spearhead of the Han Dynasty! Today, as you are crowned, I will give you the name Suizhi. You should cultivate a heart dedicated to serving your country, be bound by your bond with your family and country, uphold integrity, and lead the world!"

"Your Majesty, Huo Qubing, will never let down the Han Dynasty. I am willing to defend the Han territory and expand its borders, and to wipe out all the barbarians!"

Huo Qubing bowed deeply, his movements were smooth and flowing, his manners were impeccable, and his voice was clear and passionate. The long wind in Chang'an nurtured the most solitary eagle, which soared into the sky.

Liu Che seemed to see the fierce horse Changfeng when he first met Huo Qubing. That year, the child said, "Eat the emperor's deer. Catch a bigger one for him tomorrow."

He gently called out "Suizhi", and if you suizhi, you will be at peace.

Get rid of the disease and you will be at peace.

All expectations are reflected in this name.

Liu Che patted Huo Qubing's shoulder, whispering words of encouragement like a father. Huo Qubing knelt before him, truly like a father and son. Huo Yan was lost in thought, inappropriate for such an occasion. The barrage of comments was filled with congratulations, but he didn't really want to read them. He simply looked at the joyful faces of everyone in the Wei family, the tears in Wei Qing's eyes, and wondered, "When I grow up, will I make you happy too? Don't I need to do anything else?"

He didn't quite understand, but he just felt his heart was burning.

He lowered his head in silence, feeling that the sky was truly blue.

The summer breeze is hot, but fortunately it is early and there is still some coolness.

Huo Yan looked around slowly, his eyes falling on the young man. He seemed very interested, but also seemed to be just looking at the tree behind him.

He didn't look away until a hand gently rubbed his head. Liu Che's tone turned into a deep and gentle one, with the kindness and gentleness of his father, as warm as the sun.

"Ayan, you have always been wise and far-sighted, and you are my right-hand man and backbone! With the crown of nobility, you are equal to a nobleman! With the crown of three crowns, I will give you the courtesy name Chunhe. I hope you will hold your heart like a mirror, cultivate your virtue, and work hard to eliminate evil and promote benefits for the world."

Little Ayan, do you know my expectations and your uncle's expectations?

His eyes couldn't be softer, all the sun's fierceness was gone, leaving only a gentle warmth. But Huo Yan found him creepy, his eyes so soft they looked thready.

He subconsciously bent his waist, trying to hide his face in the dark. He felt a little itchy and uncomfortable.

Liu Che: ...

"Huo Ayan!"

Liu Che gritted his teeth and shouted.

This is normal.

Huo Yan raised his head and bowed slowly, his voice steady and clear, like the collision of jade and stone, neither fast nor slow.

"Your Majesty, your servant, Huo Yan, will faithfully follow your Majesty's instructions! I will diligently discern loyalty from treachery, and will use my benevolent heart to comfort the people and protect their livelihoods!"

Every word fell clearly into everyone's heart, especially those opponents who had fought against him in the court, all of whom were awed.

Young people only have the world in their hearts.

Liu Che felt that they didn't love him, but he also inexplicably liked this youthful vigor. Perhaps he couldn't go back.

He waved his hand, and the appraiser presented a bronze cup filled with sweet wine. Liu Che took the cup and handed it to Huo Qubing first, saying, "Qubing! Drink this sweet wine! Congratulations on your crowning."

Huo Qubing took it with both hands, tilted his head back, and drank it all in one gulp, the liquid sliding down his resolute jaw. "Thank you, Your Majesty."

Liu Che passed the wine to Huo Yan again, "Come, Ah Yan! Drink this sweet wine! Celebrate the joy of heaven and serve as the pillar of the country together with your brother!"

Huo Yan held the cup in both hands, with a dignified demeanor, and drank it slowly, his movements graceful and calm, without spilling a drop.

"I thank your Majesty."

The ritual music was once again solemn and magnificent. The two brothers stood side by side, first bowing to the emperor Liu Che with the most solemn ceremony, "Thank you, Your Majesty, for the grace of crowning the guest and bestowing the name!"

Liu Che suddenly felt a little sentimental and missed some of his poems.

He just recited it as he wanted, completely ignoring whose coming-of-age ceremony it was. Fortunately, Huo Qubing and Huo Yan didn't care to pay attention to him. After the ceremony, they turned to Wei Qing and others who were sitting at the host's seat. Without the slightest hesitation, they lifted the hem of their brand new robes, bent their knees, and bowed their heads in the most solemn ceremony, touching their foreheads to the ground. "Thank you, uncle and aunt, for your kindness in raising me!"

They were dressed in robes that symbolized nobles and important officials, with red and black jade crowns on their heads. They had tall and straight figures, and were as deep and majestic as mountains, unfathomable. Their identical calm eyes seemed to be able to reflect people's hearts and encompass the mountains and rivers.

"Thank you, uncle, for your teachings and your kindness in giving me a new life!"

The word "uncle," from childhood to adulthood, was filled with the admiration and dependence they had cherished from infancy to adulthood. At this moment, Huo Qubing and Huo Yan no longer possessed the sharp edge they usually displayed in the court. Wei Qing gazed at the two now gleaming gems below him, and the scorching heat in his chest finally surged to his eyes, transforming into a slight bitterness. He forced himself to control it, trotting forward. Extending his large hands, calloused from years of handling reins and halberds, he lifted the two brothers to their feet, one in each. He couldn't help but pat their hands.

"You have already come of age, be careful! Work hard!"

He had nothing to say, as many words were stuck in his heart. Finally, he said, "Good boy. My son is as precious as pearls and jade, and he brings honor to our family."

There is nothing wrong with my children; they are like jewels and jade, bringing honor to our family. I cannot say anything to educate them, simply because they are already very good. I tell them to be more cautious, more careful, but in fact, I just want them to be happier and happier.

Not only him, but everyone in the Wei family was looking at the two children in the middle like this.

Their unfinished words were all revealed in the tears in the corners of their eyes. Huo Yan knelt on the ground, almost having the urge to cry.

"I will listen carefully to my uncle's instructions."

He said in unison with Huo Qubing.

Then he went to see Wei Shaoer and paid his respects to him. Wei Shaoer was very excited, but before he could talk for long, he was called away by the housekeeper to meet the ministers and officials.

Zhu Ruo'er smiled and said to Wei Shao'er, "Now that my two nephews are like this, I am relieved."

We are all family, and Wei Shaoer has always been outspoken. He laughed and said, "They are like this, especially Ah Yan, who is so sad that he wants to have eight holes in his heart. I hope that God will have mercy on them and make them more stupid, so that they don't suffer any disasters."

Zhu Ruoer knew that her temper was not fake, so she just sighed, "Yes, being too smart always makes people afraid."

The echoes of the coming-of-age ceremony lingered in the summer breeze. Huo Yan had changed into a red silk gown, with a matching sash tied around his waist. His dark hair was held in place by a matching headband.

The last step of the ceremony was to entertain all the guests. As the protagonists of the ceremony, Huo Qubing and Huo Yan naturally had to toast everywhere.

After toasting, Wei Qing asked them to go and find some young men to play with.

Huo Yan and Huo Qubing were naturally delighted, and they walked a few steps to the side table. When Huo Yan and his family hadn't moved out, Wei Qing had given them a flower hall in the front yard for entertaining friends. Now it was perfectly put to use, filling up an entire room. The young men had already begun their feast. In the warm cauldron, the broth of deer tendon stewed with codonopsis pilosula was thick, the tendons soft and chewy. In the ceramic pot, there was preserved deer jerky, the rich fermented glutinous rice wine wrapped in the aroma of meat. On the bamboo basket, skewers of roasted rabbit were skewered on bamboo sticks and sprinkled with magnolia, dogwood, and the sesame seeds Zhang Qian had brought. The aroma of burnt meat permeated the air.

A transparent glass plate held okra mixed with sesame, crisp and refreshing. A celadon bowl of candied cherries, bright red cherries soaked in honey, offered a sweet and sour flavor. There was also a dish of fried toon fish, made with toon batter and deep-fried, then drizzled with scalding Sichuan peppercorn oil, for an instant burst of aroma. A ceramic bowl held a rich and sweet lamb and carrot soup. There were also three meat dishes and three vegetable dishes, more than a dozen large and small, each filled to the brim on its own table.

Huo Yan and Huo Qubing sat down at the main seat, tasted the almond curd, and feasted with everyone else.

Rice wine and red wine were served in turn, and a group of young people sang and danced.

On the table, the deer tendon and codonopsis pilosula soup in the warm pot was still bubbling with tempting bubbles. There was the rich meaty aroma of pickled deer jerky, the exotic fragrance of roasted wild rabbit skewers mixed with magnolia, dogwood and sesame, and the bursting peppery aroma of oil-sprinkled toon fish... The young men were not particular about details, either tearing the soft and glutinous deer tendons directly with their hands, or scrambling for the last few skewers of sizzling rabbit meat. Cups and plates clinked among the bamboo baskets and celadon, and laughter was loud.

The solemn echoes of the previous ceremony were completely swept away by the noisy voices and the summer breeze.

This place has long been the world of young people. The air is filled with the aroma of roasting food, the sweetness of rice wine, the richness of grape wine, and the unrestrained vitality of young people.

The feast had reached its most exhilarating stage, with the so-called "no count of wine" and "no count of music," meaning unbridled drinking and dancing. The clinking of glasses and the graceful rituals and music of the elders at the main table were all absent here.

"Come, come, come, get rid of your illness! Today you are crowned an adult, and you should be clear-headed!"

Cao Xiang shouted loudly, raising the glass wine bottle in his hand, which was filled with amber rice wine.

"That's right! And Ayan!"

Su Wu immediately agreed, handing over the lacquer-handled cup filled with dark red wine, "Drink it up!"

Huo Qubing laughed heartily, taking the wine from the jug without hesitation and guzzling it down. A trickle of wine slid down his chin onto his red silk dress, but he paid it no mind. Huo Yan, also caught up in the atmosphere, raised his glass and clinked it with the others. The sweet, rich liquid slid down his throat, bringing a slight warmth and adding to his exhilaration.

After several rounds of drinking, the atmosphere grew increasingly lively. Someone suddenly slammed the table and began to hum a passionate frontier tune. Someone immediately joined in, and for a moment, the young men were banging on the tables and earthenware bowls, some even beating out the rhythm with their chopsticks.

I set up wine in the high hall, and my close friends came with me.

The Chinese kitchen prepared a sumptuous meal, cooking sheep and fattening cattle.

The Qin Zheng is so generous, and the Qi Se is so harmonious and soft.

Yang'a performed a strange dance, and Jingluo performed famous songs.

They don't know when to dance, they only know how to dance together! This is the most popular custom at their banquets, that is, one person dances and then invites another to dance together, spreading joy.

A group of young men danced joyfully. It was unknown who left the table first, but they eventually stomped the ground in the open space between the tables, their arms stretched out in a sweeping, powerful movement. Huo Qubing rose to his feet, his crimson robes billowing like flames, his dance more vigorous and swift than ever, as if he were not at a banquet but on the battlefield, reviewing his troops and shooting eagles with his bow.

"The Pegasus comes out of the westernmost point!"

The cheers and clapping of the young people were deafening.

"Wind, strong wind!"

Huo Yan, his hand resting on Huo Qubing's shoulder, danced with the crowd. His movements were graceful and elegant, like willows swaying in the wind, yet he possessed the rhythmic beauty unique to the sons of aristocratic families. He casually accepted the wine cup offered by Huo Qubing and drank as he danced, his black hair flying, his red headband drawing a graceful arc in the wind.

"Crush the Qilian Snow!"

"Hahaha," Cao Xiang continued, "The feathered dispatch is like a meteor—"

After three rounds of drinking and the dancing was in full swing, Huo Qubing suddenly took off his red belt and tied it around his wrist as a hand guard, then drew the bronze sword from the courtyard - as the sword light flashed, his figure was as swift as a flying dragon.

"I will not return until I have conquered Yanzhi!"

He was staggering, looking drunk, but his hands were steady. He picked up half a lotus flower and threw it into Huo Yan's hands.

Huo Yan was covered in flowers. He was already drunk, and his appearance was so beautiful that it seemed as if a jade mountain was about to collapse. He said, "Hang the Han flag directly over the Chanyu's tent!"

Huo Qubing was smiling broadly. When he turned around and stabbed, his clothes fluttered like flames in the sky, and the sound of wind whistling wherever the sword pointed.

"How can I be like a sparrow in the grass?"

Everyone chorused.

"The wind is rising!"

Huo Yan turned around with the others again, his face flushed as he slumped to the ground. He lazily fluttered his eyelids and said, "I have ambitions to soar to the sky!"

Huo Qubing said he received it well. He swung his sword wildly, and the tip of his sword suddenly lifted the wine cup on the table. The wine drew an arc in the air. He held the wine cup steadily and handed it to Huo Yan. Huo Yan raised his head and took a drink from the cup, "Drink to win!"

The young men joined in the singing by hitting their drums with chopsticks, and the sound reached the sky.

"My ambition is to reach the sky!"

When Huo Qubing finished dancing, his chest heaving, he raised his newly filled wine glass and said in a clear and passionate voice, "Drink to victory!"

"Drink to victory!"

"Drink to victory!"

The young men responded in unison, their voices nearly blowing the roof off their heads. Rice wine and red wine flowed down their throats again like water. Sweet candied cherries and crisp sesame and okra served as sobering snacks, while the warmth of the mutton soup soothed their stomachs. They chatted and laughed heartily, judging people, and the sky was a clear blue.

Today, at the age of 20, they are intoxicated by the summer breeze in Chang'an.

Huo Yan and everyone else fell to the ground in a daze.

He rested his head on Huo Qubing and chanted, "You, your sword dance is really good. I think you are great. I want to be your friend and play with you."

He said, extending his hand, "Let's shake hands and become friends!"

Huo Qubing drank so much for the first time and was also drunk. He said, "You are so good at responding to my poem. I think you are very good. Let's be friends."

He shook hands with Huo Yan, like two little kids, and Huo Yan even made a childish pinky promise.

Huo Qubing smiled and, just like when he was a child, made a pinky promise with him.

"Let's be friends for life!"

Huo Yan hummed a few times and fell asleep completely.

This summer breeze, carrying the scent of grass and trees, makes people feel very comfortable.

【Author’s words】

Ayan and Qubing didn't know each other at all, but once they met, they became good friends [Let me see]