The next day, the guests arrived, and the prime minister himself went to attend to the new generation of warriors. The warriors were from different sects and were Takeshi Shirokawa, Mei Lin, Huang Fei, Li Wei, Tao Jin, Fang Xue, and Chen Long. The seven warriors were named the seven pillars by the emperor. The prime minister brought them to the royal garden, where they would dine with the emperor and other prominent guests.
The garden was an ethereal wonderland, brimming with an aura of enchantment. Glowing berries and rare fruits adorned the bushes, casting a soft, brilliant light that danced across the landscape. Elegant animals roamed freely, their presence adding to the garden's mystical charm. Among them were moonlit deer with shimmering fur and whispering foxes that moved silently, their tails leaving trails of sparkling dust.
Uncommon trees, with leaves that glistened like precious gems, towered over the garden, their branches swaying gently in the breeze. Each tree was a marvel in itself, with bark imbued with ancient runes and leaves that whispered the secrets of the past. The grass was no ordinary greenery; it was a lush carpet of Emerald Blades, each blade reflecting the wealth and grandeur of the empire.
A glistening stream with crystal-clear waters wound its way through the garden, illuminated by the moon. The stream was home to peacefully floating lotus blossoms that gave off a gentle glow, as well as luminescent fish with scales that reflected a multitude of colors. Along the banks of the stream grew magical herbs like moonshade and starflower, their fragrances blending to create a heady, enticing aroma. This garden, a haven where opulence and nature coexisted peacefully, was a living example of the empire's and the emperor's wealth.
In the heart of the royal garden, a lavish dining table was set, radiating opulence amidst the enchanting surroundings. The table, crafted from ancient, enchanted wood and inlaid with gold, stood beneath a canopy of luminescent vines and flowering trees, their blossoms casting a soft, magical glow.
Silver platters held an array of exotic foods, each a testament to the empire's wealth. At the center was a roast of Golden Adarna, its tender meat exuding a savory aroma, promising vitality and longevity. Beside it, slices of silver dragonfish lay delicately arranged, their iridescent scales reflecting a mesmerizing array of colors. The succulent roast of Moonlit Deer, marinated in rare, magical herbs, filled the air with an intoxicating fragrance.
Crystal bowls brimmed with glowing berries and rare fruits, like twinkling starfruit and creamy dragonpearls, each piece a vibrant jewel. The gentle stream meandering through the garden added a serene melody, its sparkling waters bordered by magical herbs like starflower and moonshade, their scents mingling with the feast's aromas.
Graceful attendants in silken robes embroidered with silver and gold moved with practiced elegance, ensuring each guest's needs were met with precision and care. Dining in this royal garden was a celebration of nature's magic and the empire's grandeur.
The guests, ensconced in the enchanting ambiance of the royal garden, were utterly mesmerized by the meticulous preparations and extravagant display before them. Their eyes widened in awe at the sight of the lavish dining table, adorned with its opulent offerings and surrounded by the natural beauty of the garden. Whispers of admiration filled the air as they beheld the silver platters gleaming under the soft glow of the magical vines and flowering trees.
Each dish, from the tender Golden Adarna roast to the shimmering Silver Dragonfish slices, elicited gasps of wonder and anticipation. The aroma of the Moonlit Deer roast, infused with rare herbs, stirred their senses, while the crystal bowls overflowing with glowing berries and exotic fruits captivated their imaginations.
As graceful attendants moved with precision and grace, serving with a blend of artistry and hospitality, the guests found themselves enchanted not only by the food but by the entire experience.
However, amidst the murmurs of wonder and delight, the narcissistic princess couldn't help but think to herself. "These country bumpkins are surprised by this preparation," she mused inwardly, a hint of smugness playing on her lips. "To be honest, we did go overboard in the preparation," she added silently, her thoughts reflecting a mix of pride in the grandeur displayed and a subtle sense of superiority.
Meanwhile, as the guests continued to revel in the splendor laid before them, the princess maintained a regal demeanor, her thoughts a private dance of satisfaction and self-assurance amidst the luxurious feast unfolding in the royal garden.
The emperor, resplendent in his ceremonial attire, raised a crystal goblet filled with the finest vintage wine, its deep crimson hues catching the flickering light of the garden's enchanting setting. His gesture commanded the attention of all gathered, a subtle indication of his supreme authority. With a voice that carried the weight of centuries of tradition, he declared, "Let the feast begin."
Seated beside him, the Prime Minister exuded an air of reserved dignity, his presence a testament to both loyalty and strategic acumen. The princess, her demeanor poised yet tinged with a hint of youthful exuberance, sat gracefully beside the Prime Minister, while opposite them, the Empress exuded grace and elegance, her regal presence complementing the solemnity of the occasion.
Following the imperial family and sect leaders from different powerful sects, the nobles took their places, their refined manners and lineage placing them in prominent positions around the table. Beside them, the new generation of warriors, eager and ambitious, recognized the symbolic significance of their seating arrangement. It underscored the hierarchy of power and influence within the empire, a subtle reminder that their future status and authority would be earned through feats of valor and strategic prowess.
As the feast unfolded amidst the fragrant blossoms and soft murmur of the garden stream, the young warriors exchanged knowing glances, silently acknowledging the path ahead. Their aspirations were clear: to rise through the ranks, to earn their place among the nobles, and to one day wield the influence and authority that now graced those seated at the emperor's table. Thus, amidst the sumptuous feast and under the watchful gaze of their elders, the seeds of ambition and destiny were sown anew in the hearts of the empire's future leaders.
After the lavish feast drew to a close, the Emperor summoned the seven pillars of the empire to his private meeting room, a chamber adorned with ancient tapestries and illuminated by flickering torches. As they gathered, each pillar represented a different sect and background, their attire and demeanor reflecting the diversity of their origins.
With a commanding presence, the Emperor began, his voice resonating with authority and wisdom. "You all come from different sects and backgrounds," he acknowledged, his gaze sweeping across the assembled group. "From this day forth, you shall train under the guidance of multiple masters. It is imperative that you expand your skills and master several weapons to enhance your martial knowledge."
His words carried weight as he continued, outlining a bold challenge for the future. "Within three years of rigorous training, supported by the empire's resources and strategic backing, I task you with defeating the pirate confederation," he declared. "Should you succeed in this monumental task, I will grant each of you a noble title and wealth beyond measure. You are the future of this empire, entrusted with its prosperity and security."
He paused, his expression a mix of expectation and encouragement. "I hope you will exceed these expectations and continue to foster goodwill among yourselves," he concluded, his tone resolute yet filled with pride. The Emperor's vision for unity and excellence among the seven pillars resonated in the solemnity of the chamber, marking the beginning of a new chapter in the empire's history.
Takeshi Shirokawa respectfully requested the Emperor grant them summoning scrolls to bolster their abilities, a petition the Emperor graciously accepted. Mei Lin then asked who would oversee their training.
"The Prime Minister will provide further details," the Emperor replied, his voice calm yet authoritative.
Huang Fei, intrigued, questioned why the sect leaders couldn't confront the formidable Pirate Confederation.
"They are often occupied and lack coordination among themselves," the Emperor explained with a thoughtful pause. "My intention is for all seven of you to train together. Unity will be crucial in facing the Confederation, which operates like an empire, controlling vital trade routes and amassing wealth."
Huang Fei nodded thoughtfully. "But isn't the Pirate Confederation incredibly powerful?"
The Emperor nodded solemnly. "Indeed, they were founded by three formidable individuals. The stormbalde and twin talons rose to such prominence by just beating the lowest branch of the pirate copnfideration. If you destroy the entire confideration then your name will reach the heavens. Doing this may earn you the sect leader position, or you can create a new sect by yourselves.
Chen Long's inquiry echoed through the hall, breaking the weighty silence that followed the Emperor's previous remarks. "Why don't we invite the Twin Talons and the Stormblade to join us, forming the Nine Pillars?"
The Emperor's expression softened momentarily. "The Twin Talons are currently undergoing training under the guidance of the Emei Sect leader," he explained, his voice carrying a hint of admiration for the renowned martial prowess of the Emei Sect. "As for the Stormblade, their whereabouts remain elusive, with rumors suggesting departure from the empire."
He paused, his gaze sweeping over the assembled warriors with a mixture of pride and solemnity. "You are the greatest prospects of this generation, each a prodigy in your own right. The empire stands ready to offer its full support."
The Emperor's words hung in the air, each syllable imbued with the weight of expectation. "We propose a blood contract," he continued, his tone grave yet resolute. "This contract ensures loyalty and trust, binding all parties with consequences severe enough to deter betrayal—a slow and agonizing destruction of one's own blood. It is a measure to safeguard against treachery and uphold our unity."
The seven warriors exchanged glances, absorbing the gravity of the Emperor's proposal. The notion of a blood contract, though daunting, resonated with the necessity to do it.
The Emperor's voice reverberated through the chamber as he addressed the hesitant warriors. "Why hesitate? We shall ensure fair clauses in the contract and uphold its terms. Become my vassals," he proclaimed, his words carrying the weight of authority. "With the backing of the empire, you shall wield unmatched power."
A moment of silence ensued, each warrior weighing the implications of the Emperor's offer. Eventually, one by one, they nodded in agreement.
The Emperor concealed a satisfied smile. Good, he thought to himself; once they match the strength of the sect leaders, the Seven Pillars will replace them. His thoughts then turned to a longstanding concern. The sect leaders have never formed a blood pact. Only a few have done so, yet the fear of betrayal persists.
"The conversation we have had here," the Emperor continued aloud, his tone lowering to a confidential murmur, "must remain private. Its details are not to be spread. Now leave discreetly."
This declaration underscored the gravity of their agreement and emphasized the Emperor's commitment to their collective future and the security of the empire.
The lights in the grand chamber flickered and died, plunging the room into sudden darkness. The quiet hallways beyond echoed an unsettling stillness, a stark contrast to the usual bustling life of the palace, and the room was empty.