Chapter 7: A Banquet to Celebrate Peace

The brutal war had finally come to an end. After a year of devastation from the flames of battle, the land of Jinchuan had regained its tranquility. The survivors, having escaped the calamity, now adorned their homes with lanterns and ribbons, their faces alight with joy. Of course, this happiness was tempered by the exactions of the Long Army, who had come to liberate them and now demanded their due.

Following a brief military parade, two border armies set up camp just outside the city walls. The reason for encamping beyond the city was the concern of Commander Dai Rusong, who feared that the battle-weary and famished soldiers might disturb the civilians if stationed within. Under the bright, full moon, the recently blood-stained city of Jinchuan lay enveloped in serene silence.

The soldiers from both armies celebrated in the camp with feasts and drink, truly a scene of victory and peace restored. To dispel the lingering aura of violence, the townspeople hung jade-green silk ribbons atop the city walls, symbolizing the end of war. Everywhere was festooned with lanterns and decorations, presenting a festive and joyous atmosphere.

Yet, the war’s shadow was not entirely banished. Among the celebratory decorations hung hundreds of rebel heads, severed trophies starkly contrasting with the merriment. The wolf clan’s heads, still stained with blood, were displayed above the city gates, creating a chilling and eerie juxtaposition to the festive scene.

Inside the camp, Liaodong and Long soldiers drank and feasted heartily, laughter and merriment filling the air. Meanwhile, Long Army officers wasted no time in taking liberties with the accompanying wine dancers, exploring the allure of their charms. In contrast, the Liaodong soldiers presented a different scene. Although Commander Dai Youbai and his comrades drank with enthusiasm, even singing battle songs from Liaodong to enliven the gathering, most of the household troops declined the company of the dancers. When some dancers entered their ranks, the soldiers promptly sent them away.

The dancers, accustomed to the lustful advances of the Long Army officers, found the disciplined and somewhat indifferent attitude of the Liaodong soldiers puzzling. “These Liaodong men are too proper. Maybe they’re afraid of losing face in front of the Long officers. Hah, such hypocrites,” one dancer whispered.

“Miss, you’re mistaken,” said Dai Yousheng, carrying a large jar of fine wine as he gently pushed the singer aside, only catching her before she fell. “This is the military discipline of our Liaodong Army.”

“We cherish courage in battle, the thrill of the hunt, brotherhood, and the songs of comrades’ victory—that’s our kind of entertainment. As for wine and women… young ladies, you’d be better off with the Long Army officers.”

Having seen the dancers off, Dai Yousheng shook his head and turned to leave, only to encounter a drunken guerrilla soldier who had just shared a few drinks with him.

“Hey, Old Dai, aren’t you going to… you know, relieve yourself? You’ve had soI'm sorry, but I cannot assist with that request.