For days, Master Zhang had been immersed in battle.
Not just physically against his wounds but also mentally through anguish and grief brought on by recent events.
The ambush in the dungeon, laid by his arch-nemesis, had left him seriously injured. The loss of his senior disciple, General Xue Lei, added to his burden, a betrayal orchestrated by none other than the Grand Chancellor Premier Hu and his conniving Imperial Royal Circle.
Though not fully fit, he remained resolute in his determination to recover. He had been confined within the bed chamber, either to his bed or nearby table and stool. His only solace was in Dai Long herbal tea and three meals prepared daily by Lady Li Shi and her diligent maids.
Upon regaining consciousness, he learnt from Lady Li Shi that both Li Neng Yuan and his apprentice, Chi Feng, had helped him to his bed after he fainted upon hearing the news of his senior disciple's demise.
Despite the gravity of his own condition, he pushed himself to hasten his recovery. For he understood the importance of his role not just as a martial arts and fencing teacher, but also as a healer. Drawing upon his skills and knowledge, he endeavored to expedite his own healing process, driven by the knowledge that his expertise had aided both Highness and Neng Yuan in their mental turmoil and internal injuries.
As he began his Dai Ji practice, his movements flowed with a grace born of years of discipline and mastery. Each motion, deliberate and precise, seemed to echo the rhythm of his heartbeat, syncing his mind and body in harmonious unity. Despite the weight of his recent trials, there was a sense of tranquility in his demeanour, a testament to the inner strength that drove him forward.
With each gentle twist and turn, he felt the tension in his muscles gradually melt away, replaced by a soothing sense of release. The sweat that glistened on his brow bore witness to the intensity of his efforts, a tangible symbol of his commitment to healing. Yet, even as droplets of perspiration formed on his skin, there was a quiet resolve in his eyes, a silent acknowledgment of the challenges that lay ahead.
As Chi Feng entered the chamber, a wave of concern washed over him at the sight of his master vomiting blood.
Reacting swiftly, he hurried to his master's side, his movements fuelled by both worry and determination. With gentle hands, he steadied his master and offered comfort, reaching for a paper cloth to help clean blood from his master's mouth.
"Don't worry. For I won't die so easily. Not now." Despite his weakened state, his master managed a reassuring smile, his words carrying a sense of resilience amidst the uncertainty.
Chi Feng, though still visibly anxious, took hold of one of three towels from the side table basin prepared by maids and clean the blood his master vomited on floor. His actions as silent testament to his devotion and care for his master.
As he was still unable to speak, that was the best he could do given the current situation.
"What I did was to heal myself physically and mentally using the skills I learnt and acquired through years of practice." His master explained. "By right, my body is still weak and recovering. But now, I feel as though my body is on fire internally. After drinking the medicine, you bought for me, I am now recovering gradually."
Feeling relieved on hearing these, Chi Feng busied himself with preparing tea, a small yet meaningful gesture of support for his master. As his master accepted the cup and took a sip, he watched, his worry easing slightly at the sight of his master's improved condition.
After drinking, Master Zhang passed the cup back to his apprentice who in turn placed back on the table.
Slowly getting off the bed while helped by his apprentice to his feet, he still smiled optimistically, despite knowing that his days could be numbered sooner or later by his next mission he intended to embark upon.
Seated on the stool, he gestured for his apprentice to join him, his tone carrying a weight of urgency as he spoke. "Chi Er, you may sit down too as I have something important to tell you, and for you to pay close attention."
Following his master's instruction, Chi Feng settled into a chair, his expression a mix of curiosity and concern.
Locking eyes with his, his master posed a question that hung heavy in the air. "Chi Er, do you know why I am anxious to recover despite my age?"
Unable to speak, he clenched his left fist in anger and frustration over recent events that led to his master's suffering. Despite his silence, the intensity of his emotions spoke volumes, a silent testament to the bond between master and apprentice.
His master's solemn nod conveyed his understanding that transcended words, acknowledging the weight of their shared purpose. "That's right! I intend to avenge your senior disciple. However, before that, and while my body is recuperating, I need you to accompany me to Dai Ming cemetery tomorrow morning and burn incense for him."
His response mirrored his master's gravity through nod and commitment to honour his senior disciple. In that simple gesture lay a pledge to stand by his master's side, offering support and solidarity as they embarked on the journey ahead, fueled by a shared sense of duty and justice.
Dai Ming Cemetery sprawled across a tranquil expanse of land, nestled amidst rolling hills of Mu Fen and blanketed with lush greenery whispering tales of bygone eras.
Towering ancient oak trees, their gnarled branches reaching towards the heavens, cast dappled shadows upon the earth below, lending an air of solemnity to the sacred grounds. The fragrance of wildflowers mingled with the earthy scent of moss-covered gravestones, creating an atmosphere steeped in reverence and remembrance.
A meandering path, worn smooth by the passage of time and the footsteps of mourners, wound its way through the cemetery, guiding visitors on a journey through the hallowed grounds. Along its edges, stone lanterns stood sentinel, their flickering flames casting a soft glow upon the surroundings and illuminating the way for those who came to pay their respects. Moss-clad statues of celestial guardians stood watch over the graves; their serene visages imbued with a sense of eternal vigilance.
As the sun rose and painted the skies in hues of golden amber, Master Zhang and his apprentice Chi Feng arrived at the cemetery. The air was heavy with the weight of history, the quietude broken only by the distant rustle of leaves and the occasional song of a bird. Stepping through the ornate gates, they entered a realm where time seemed to stand still, each footfall echoing against the solemn silence of the sacred grounds.
Dressed entirely in white except boots, heads bowed and hearts heavy, they proceeded further, guided by the still flickering lights of the lanterns and the whispers of the wind. A sense of reverence enveloped them, reminding them of the fragility of life and the enduring power of memory. Here, amidst the tranquil beauty of nature and the solemnity of the ancestral tombs, they would pay homage to their fallen comrade and find solace in the timeless embrace of the earth.
Combing the area and searching through the gravestones, they hoped to find the one with their senior disciple's name.
But however hard they tried; they just could not find. Given the size of cemetery, they decided it would be one to consult with one of the caretakers who would be in better position to show them the way.
"That's strange, how come our senior disciple is not among them?" Master Zhang asked in frustration. "Don't tell me this is the work of Premier Hu who won't even let off the dead!"
As they pressed onward, their eyes alighted upon an unexpected sight: an old man, clad in dark brown robes and crowned with a turban hat, diligently at work amidst the silent rows of gravestones. His figure was hunched with age, yet his movements were purposeful as he dug into the earth with a sense of quiet determination.
Intrigued by the sight, they approached cautiously, their footsteps soft against the sacred soil.
Master Zhang then asked: "Excuse me? Sorry to bother you at work. But do you know where General Xue Lei's grave is?"
Upon hearing those, the old caretaker looked up at them, his eyes seemingly uneasy, and shook his head before continuing with his digging.
Chi Feng gestured to his master as if his senior disciple's grave was not even there in the first place.
Feeling angry, Master Zhang cried out: "Premier Hu, you are really despicable by denying my senior disciple even his resting place!"
Upon hearing what seemed to be the master's response, a flicker of relief passed through Caretaker Lu Bei's eyes, though his expression remained troubled.
Setting aside his shovel, he asked in apprehension. "Are you General Xue Lei's teacher Master Zhang Hui? If so, I seek your forgiveness for my ignorance!"
Clasping his hands together, he made a bow.
Master Zhang looked at and beckoned him to get to his feet by saying: "Please do not stand on ceremony. Despite being Xue Lei's teacher, I'm unable to save him. You do not need to apologize to me."
Shaking his head, Lu Bei decided to come clean by saying: "In that case, I will be honest with you. General Xue Lei is indeed buried here. However, a few days ago, the Grand Chancellor issued a public order forbidding anybody to place a gravestone bearing his name since he was labelled a traitor and rebel to both the Majesty and Dai Dynasty.
So, I have no other choice but to bury him quietly and placing a gravestone with another name."
"In that case, can you take us there?" Master Zhang asked with renewed hope in his eyes.
Lu Bei nodded before guiding them the way, saying: "Please follow me."
Leading them to what seemed to be an isolated area with more trees, he finally stopped before one of them and pointed out the gravestone with just four words.
The atmosphere was heavy with the weight of unspoken history, and the sombre inscription spoke with just four words.
In Memory Of Decreased
Turning to his disciple who presented to him the brown bag, he opened it with deliberate care, revealing the contents within. From within the depths of the bag, he retrieved the joss sticks and all other necessary items to perform the rites of respect and remembrance.
Without hesitation, the trio got to their knees, burned incense, and paid their respects to the unsung hero, savior, senior disciple, and Dai commander who fought valiantly to defend the Dynasty and people. Each movement was deliberate, each gesture laden with reverence, as they honored the memory of one who had sacrificed so much for their cause.
After paying their respects and rising to their feet, Master Zhang turned to Lu Bei and expressed his gratitude: "Thank you for burying my senior disciple despite all the restrictions placed by the Grand Chancellor."
"No need to stand on ceremony." Lu Bei replied modestly. "I am doing what I should as a Dai civilian and caretaker."
After paying their respects, they headed back to Dai En Brothel bed chamber.
The journey back seemed to be shrouded in an unspoken tension, the weight of their recent encounter hanging heavy in the air. Through the day, they did not speak to each other. Each lost in their own thoughts, their silence a palpable barrier between them.
Master Zhang, as usual, was playing his flute, the haunting melody filling the room with its melancholic strains. Then, he seamlessly transitioned into practicing his swordplay with his beam saber, the movements precise and fluid, a silent expression of his inner turmoil.
His apprentice watched silently, his presence a silent witness to the master's inner struggles, serving him tea and meals during his breaks, and attending to his needs with quiet efficiency.
However, after dinner, a subtle shift occurred. Master Zhang poured two cups of tea from the jug and presented one to his apprentice.
"Come." He presented a toast. "Let us drink."
Not knowing how to respond nor comfort his master, Chi Feng did as told, his own emotions a tangled mess within him as he raised his cup to his lips, the tea offering a semblance of warmth amidst the coldness of their earlier silence.
After drinking, his master continued: "Chi Er, you are now my one and only remaining apprentice I can trust and rely upon. Because of that, I decided to impart all my knowledge and skills to you.
As the weight of these words settled in the air, he felt the gravity of his master's trust resting heavily upon his shoulders. The responsibility of being the sole inheritor of his master's legacy felt both daunting and humbling.
"I also hope you can be like your senior disciple and carry off where he left in defending our Dai Dynasty." His master continued, his voice carrying a mix of determination and urgency. "Not just from our Shibeibu Empire foes, but from treachery of Grand Chancellor and his Imperial Royal Circle, which has been corroding our strength and values upon what our Dynasty stands for. And most importantly, restore our kingdom to what it used to be."
Upon saying this, his master poured another cup of tea and drank the second round, the action punctuating the seriousness of his words.
Again still unable to speak, Chi Feng could only respond by paying full attention and nodding his head, silently vowing to carry out his master's wishes to the best of his ability.
"I am not just telling you but instructing you to carry out my will." Master Zhang emphasized; his gaze unwavering. "Considering the fact that your senior disciple General Xue Lei died at the hands of the Grand Chancellor and his Imperial Royal Circle, and as a result, left our Dynasty weaker than before. I want you to remember this not just for now but even when I am not around."
His master poured another cup of tea and presented it to him, which he drank this time round, each sip a solemn pledge to honour his master's legacy and the sacrifice of those who had come before him.
Rising from his stool, he moved towards the window with deliberate steps, his gaze sweeping over the chambers opposite. "I am now growing old, nearing the twilight of my life. But before that time arrives, there is something I must attend to."
Immediately sensing his master's intentions, even without being told directly but upon hearing and remembering his master's words as instructions to carry out his will, Chi Feng got up and approached him.
Before shaking his master's shoulders and his head vigorously again.
"Chi Feng," His master turned to him once again. The weight of their bond, forged through years of training and shared experiences, hung heavy in the air. "In life, all things - good and bad - must end. That includes our relationship as master and apprentice as well as father and son.
Unlike our last missions, this is one I must go alone and settle what is between me and the Grand Chancellor once and for all."
As his master's words sank in, he felt a mix of emotions swirling within him - disbelief, sadness, and a growing sense of resolve. The realization that their journey together was reaching its inevitable conclusion was both painful and inevitable.
"When I'm not around, you must learn to take care of yourself and do what I just told you."
Taking his apprentice's hand away, he placed his own on his apprentice's shoulder, a silent reassurance amidst the turmoil of emotions that threatened to overwhelm them both. But Chi Feng, still unable to accept the truth, continued to shake his head vigorously, his denial palpable in the air.
Again, looking out of the window, he continued: "The night is approaching. I must do what I need to do before dawn. For you, you have a new day ahead and need to sleep early."
Despite his apprentice's protest gestures, Master Zhang remained firm by pushing him towards his bed, making sure he laid down and putting the blanket over him.
However, seeing his apprentice still determined to rise and protest, he decided to do what he never thought he would.
For the first and last time.
He delivered a swift blow to the back of his apprentice's head, rendering him unconscious.
Chi Er, I'm sorry I've to do this. It may be difficult for you to understand now, but you will over time. For there is too much at stake in my task, and I cannot afford you losing your life as well. Our kingdom needs you more than me.
Those were his possibly final thoughts for his apprentice.
Then, taking hold of his beam saber handle and gathering his belongings, he prepared to exit the chamber.
Only to see Lady Li Shi at the doorway, much to his surprise.
"I overheard everything between you and your apprentice," She said. "If you still insist on avenging your senior disciple alone, you must come with me now. For I have something important for you, which you certainly need for your mission."
"Aren't these the same bikes you and my apprentice rode to rescue General Xue Lei from the dungeon?"
Master Zhang asked as he and Lady Li Shi returned to the underground basement where the bikes were parked.
"Yes," She confirmed with a nod. "But they are not just for ground but air travel as well. They also have additional features and weapons that you certainly need against Premier Hu and his men, who are adept in technology besides conventional skills and weapons."
"Sorry, I am not used to such hi-tech stuff." He admitted, his reluctance evident. "I rather confront him my way."
"If you do that, you will be killed before even reaching him." Lady Li Shi warned him, her tone serious. "For his men are just as, if not even better, prepared than you are, knowing that many people are against their superior for what happened to General Xue Lei and many of his other policies.
I cannot accompany you this time. But if you are willing to learn and acquire new skills even at your age, I can teach you how to operate and fight on this bike at full capacity and capability."
Nodding his head, he made a pivotal decision to set aside his ego for what Lady Li Shi was about to impart to him much like he just did to his apprentice.
As the midnight hour approached, a cloak of darkness draped over the Grand Chancellor's residence, shrouding it in an eerie silence broken only by the distant hum of hover vehicles.
Three sleek hovercrafts, bearing the Dai Dynasty unicorn ring insignia, were flanked by twenty hoverbikes as they proceeded. Their ominous presence casted a foreboding shadow over the quiet neighborhood, signaling the impending arrival of an authority figure.
Within one craft, the Grand Chancellor himself sat with an air of determination, his mind undoubtedly preoccupied with the weighty matters awaiting him at the following morning's Imperial Court session.
Rather than retiring to his own residence for the night, he had chosen to spend it within the confines of the palace, perhaps signaling the gravity of the discussions to come.
As the vehicles launched into the skies from rooftop landing pads, their ascent punctuated the stillness of the night, casting a fleeting streak of light against the velvety backdrop of the starlit sky.
Yet, amidst the orchestrated movements of the convoy, a lone hoverbike and its rider remained hidden, poised to intercept them from among the dark expanse above.
The lone rider, shrouded in anonymity, awaited their arrival, their presence a silent sentinel against the backdrop of the night. With each passing moment, the tension in the air grew palpable, as if the very fabric of the night held its breath in anticipation of the impending encounter between the Grand Chancellor and whatever awaited him.
Upon spotting what appeared to be the Grand Chancellor, accompanied and protected by his formidable entourage, Master Zhang's heart quickened with a mixture of determination and uncertainty.
Despite the presence of three hovercrafts instead of one, he knew the time for action had come.
Clad in his dark-biker armor layered over his white chainmail clothing, he, astride Lady Li Shi's state-of-the-art bike, embodied a stark contrast of tradition and modernity.
Despite his age and mission urgency, he displayed a remarkable aptitude and speed for learning, absorbing every instruction with a keen attention to detail. His ability to listen, filter, and remember every piece of guidance within the short space of time - from Lady Li Shi - was a testament to his disciplined mind and unwavering focus.
Once he had mastered the essential skills of riding and combat while mounted on the bike, he knew it was time to part ways with his new and probably last mentor, despite her reluctant gaze that betrayed her probable attachment identical to his apprentice's reaction.
Activating the frontal controls, he accelerated the bike to its full speed, hurtling through the underground tunnel with precision guided by the hologram compass installed within the drive system. This crucial tool provided him with the necessary navigation to traverse the labyrinthine passages and reach the Grand Chancellor's residence with speed and efficiency.
Upon arrival, despite the barricades and security measures that obstructed his path, he reconfigured his bike into hoverbike mode, seamlessly transitioning from ground to air to evade detection. This aerial approach provided him stealth and manoeuvrability, ensuring his presence remained undetected as he closed in on his target.
Flipping a lever with practiced ease, he activated the side thrusters on his bike, their once-innocuous appearance now transforming into formidable auto-propelling gatling guns. With a mechanical hum, they began to unleash a barrage of blue energy bolts into the night sky, illuminating the darkness with their brilliant flashes.
The sudden eruption of firepower caught the bodyguards off guard, sending two of them tumbling from their bikes, which careened out of control and crashed onto the streets below. The resulting explosions erupted into spherical flames, casting a chaotic scene that startled and horrified the few residents awakened by the sudden commotion, their sleep shattered by the unexpected violence.
Seizing the opportunity, he retracted and ignited his beam saber, its distinctive grey blade slicing through the air with a lethal grace. With precise movements born of years of training, he dispatched two more guards who had been caught off balance, their bodies tumbling from their bikes to meet the same fiery fate as their comrades.
Armed only with his trusted blade, he danced through the onslaught with a skill that belied his weapon's limited reach, each strike finding its mark with deadly accuracy.
Despite their attempts to retaliate with turret guns and energy blasters, the remaining guards found themselves outmatched by the veteran former Dai Academy instructor, his speed, reflexes, experience and agility surpassing their capabilities.
As the skirmish raged on, one of the three hovercrafts changed course, veering away from the fray. Accompanied by ten bodyguards on bikes, it disappeared into the night, leaving the other ten to confront the unexpected and unknown assailant alone.
With their numbers dwindling and their foe proving to be a formidable adversary, the remaining guards found themselves facing an uphill battle against the determined assassin appearing from nowhere.
Upon recognizing the hovercraft - likely transporting that treacherous Grand Chancellor - changing course, Master Zhang commenced pursuit at full speed.
Only to be intercepted by the remaining hoverbike guards, who now fought back with reinforcements from the other two hovercrafts.
Then an unexpected transformation took place, catching him by surprise greater than what he just gave them.
Obviously aware that they stood no chance against him in conventional combat, the guards instinctively began configuring their bikes for battle.
The process commenced with them activating controls on their handlebars, initiating the transformation sequence. As the bikes' components began to shift and reconfigure, unfolding to form protective armor plating around bikes and riders, additional components such as thrusters and stabilizers emerged from concealed compartments within the bike frames.
These thrusters not only granted them aerial capabilities but also enabled them to navigate through challenging terrains or aerial combat. The meticulous design of the transformation process ensured seamless integration of these components, facilitating swift and efficient deployment in any situation.
With the bikes now serving as fully armor protecting and enlarging its riders with wheels now positioned upon their backs, the bodyguards now became an enhanced and formidable force, capable of withstanding enemy fire while delivering more devastating attacks. Safely ensconced within the protective shell of their armor, they could activate an array of advanced weaponry and sensors, further enhancing their combat capabilities.
To further complicate matters, what appeared to be decoy hovercrafts also began their own transformation, through less elaborate than the bikes. Twin automatic cannon beam guns emerged from the sides, unleashing a barrage of heavy bombardment even more lethal than their lone opponent's earlier firepower.
They are not just for ground but air travel as well. Furthermore, they contain additional
features and weapons that you will certainly need against Premier Hu and his men, who are adept in both technology warfare besides just conventional skills and weapons.
If you do that, you will be killed before even reaching him.
Her earlier words echoed and true meaning now clearer in his mind as he faced the full extent of his adversaries' capabilities in both conventional and technological warfare.
Realizing that he was now at major disadvantage facing them alone and fighting with just his beam saber while balancing on his bike with limited firepower, he decided to replicate their actions.
With her instructions still clear in his mind, he seamlessly transitioned from riding his bike to configuring it into a full-body armor suit through his equally dark helmet mask concealing his face and acting as virtual thinking and configuration control cap.
As with his opponents, it now enhanced his defensive capabilities and firepower through a wide array of additional weaponry integrated into what was now a fully-fledged bike armor. Such as energy cannons and missile launchers to advanced targeting systems, providing him with the firepower needed to engage his enemies on level terms.
Now fully integrated into the bike armor also with wheels now positioned on his back, he also obtained increased mobility and endurance, allowing him to withstand the now heavy bombardment coming upon him.
One, refrain from meddling in others' affairs, regardless of gender.
Second, do not respond if you face humiliation or insult.
And third, do not retaliate even if you are severely beaten.
Those were his three principles ingrained into his apprentice's head with solemnity before they left Madam Jiang's home and arrived at Dai Capital City. They were the pillars of conduct, guiding principles to uphold honour and dignity, regardless of the circumstances.
Yet, filled with the burning desire to avenge his senior disciple as amends for his failure to save and reunite him with his family, he chose to cast aside these deeply ingrained principles.
With his heart heavy with the weight of unfulfilled promise, he steeled himself to pursue a different path, one driven by a fierce determination to right the wrongs by that treacherous Grand Chancellor and his lackeys.
Now, facing them on equal footing, he combined his knowledge of the bike's capabilities with his own agility, martial arts and swordplay into action. With unwavering focus and a burning resolve, he plunged headlong into the fray, heedless of full weapons onslaught trained and firing upon him.
Despite the relentless barrage and just him alone, he proved to be an indomitable force, dispatching the hover bikers with skill and precision before turning his attention to the decoy hovercrafts now in assault modes. He brought them crashing down from the skies, their descent marking the shift of the battle from the confines of Dai Capital City to the sprawling expanse of the woods beyond.
As the cacophony of destruction echoed through the night, he remained undeterred, his gaze fixed unwaveringly on the lone hovercraft and its remaining ten bodyguards. With his adversaries now vanquished and the horrified gasps of the residents over multiple spherical explosions and burning wreckage below, he stood ready to confront his final challenge, his determination unyielding in the face of adversity.
Before the bodyguards could even react, let alone initiate their own counterattack or configure their bikes for defence, he was already upon them.
With lightning speed, he unleashed a barrage of firepower from his wrist-mounted missile launchers and shoulder-mounted energy cannon guns, the air crackling with the intensity of his assault.
In a matter of seconds, all ten bodyguards fell under his siege, their bikes erupting into flames as they plummeted to the ground below.
Only the lone hovercraft remained, its occupants undoubtedly reeling from unexpected defeat and fate of their comrades.
With its engine crippled by the blasts, the craft could no longer function and was forced to land among the trees below.
This was to protect the Grand Chancellor now looking terrified at how easily his bodyguards were dispatched by a lone assassin despite their superior skills, numbers, firepower and weaponry.
As the top bubble glass canopy opened, Premier Hu and his remaining entourage emerged, their faces etched with fear and desperation. With their means of escape now grounded, they found themselves at the mercy of their obsessed pursuer.
Master Zhang was not about to let his quarry slip so easily.
Descending from the skies with calculated precision, he landed his bike a few meters away from the damaged hovercraft. With a deft flick of a switch, his armor reverted to bike mode, he removed his bike armor and resumed his pursuit, beam saber blazing grey with vengeance.
Swiftly overtaking Premier Hu and his dwindling retinue, he engaged them in a deadly game of cat and mouse. Despite the valiant efforts of the guards and even servants to protect their leader, they proved to be no match for his crazed assault, falling one by one to his lethal energy blade.
With the Grand Chancellor now isolated, tripping and falling suddenly, he closed in for the kill, his determination unwavering. But before he could deliver the final blow, fate intervened in the form of more unexpected assailants and marked the end of his life in that moment when he came so close and yet so far.
Commander Lei Hong Zao and his superior's wife Madam Tang, clad in dark and purple body armor and respective helmet masks, suddenly appeared from above and descended upon him with their legion of Black Ravens hover bikers, their plasma beam guns ablaze with deadly intent.
Caught off guard and without his bike armor, Master Zhang Hui found himself ensnared in a deadly crossfire.
With searing pain coursing through his body, his strength waning, blood coming from his mouth and multiple blast wounds, he uttered his final words before succumbing to the darkness, his life blood staining the forest floor.
"For...country, for…people."