Kabanata 124: Serve

Helian Jing was in Zi Chen Palace accompanying the Emperor in a game of chess as he recounted the interesting events on his way from Ji Nan to Jin Ling. He especially enjoyed telling the Emperor of his experience in digging the soil in order to make beggars' bird.

The Emperor occasionally let out a cheerful chuckle, finding that young chef really clever.

"Checkmate. Little Jing, you lost again," the Emperor said.

Little Jing pouted. "Your Majesty, this match does not count. I was distracted."

The Emperor laughed out loud. Although Little Jing was a chess addict that was terrible at the game, he was candid and delightful. Playing chess with him always interests the Emperor. If it were his other subjects, they would just humbly concede to him. It was only Little Jing that would make excuses.

"Okay, I will give you a cavalry handicap. Let's go again," the Emperor said generously.

"Can you give me another canon handicap?" Helian Jing wheedled.