It is no trouble at all, Your Majesty. Good luck on your future battles.
I don't need luck, I have the best officers, the best army, and now the best strategy under my command!
The trip to Puyang is a long one.
(Less than two months remain to prepare. Ah well, might as well get some rest in.)
Lianshi, the war's coming to an end soon.
Why do you say that?
Yuan Shang's army is the last one standing between me and complete rule over this kingdom. Just one last battle and we can live in peace forever.
Too many sovereigns think the same. Dynasties decline, just like old Han.
Then, am I doing the wrong thing?
Forgive me, Your Majesty. Bu Lianshi misspoke. I did not mean to chastise you.
You are my wife, there's no need to refer to me by my title.
Forgive me, but you've grown distant over the years.
Nah, it's fine. It's my fault for not trusting my own subordinates to do everything for me.
Would you like more tea?
Lianshi, what would you want to do after the war?
Perhaps with peace in the realm, I can start a collection of literature in the royal palace.
That's not a bad idea, maybe start a Royal Library.
Yes. Perhaps.
Well, I'm off. Thanks for the tea.
You're the one to talk! How are you? I've missed you!
Mmmm, you know how it is. Heroic deeds to achieve, acts of tyranny, genius tactical maneuvers, and brilliant diplomacy down south. I'm your number one shonen hero, remember?
Tee-hee! You'd fit perfectly in that script if it wasn't for that mask.
I thought it'd make me look more badass.
Liar.
It's the truth.
You're hiding something from everyone.
No! No, I'm not!
I saw it when you took it off. What's to be ashamed of?
Sigh. You don't understand.
Your two good friends have seen it, did they make fun of you?
Not everyone is like them. The world is much more cruel than that. Their exterior may not display it, but deep down they mock and taunt me.
How does this help? Hiding yourself behind a mask, secluding yourself in a solitary room. Coming in and out as you please?
If that's what it takes to cope.
Isolation will never make you stronger.
I'm born this way, raised this way, made this way. Everything is fine.
Steve?
I have to go.
Don't run away.
I never run. I'm too lazy for that.
Look who it is! The conqueror of Southlands!
I didn't do it myself. So, drilling for the final battle?
It'd be nice if Yuan Shang would surrender.
Unlikely, but score enough victories and they'll probably fold.
I just hope it doesn't take the execution of an entire clan's generation for that to happen.
I've learned from experience. Don't worry. How's your father?
I guess he's happier now. Easier to manage. The war's keeping him occupied.
What happens after the war?
He'll probably get bored, start fights and get in trouble again. Which is why I need your help.
And that is?
Send me off somewhere near the border with my father. So I can keep him in check and occupied.
How am I gonna see my third wife, then?
I'll still make the annual trip to Puyang! Don't worry!
I'm just kidding. You're free to do as you wish.
Training's done. How about I pay you back with tea at my house?
Just tea?
Tch. I have sweets too, if your childish appetite is bothering you.
So...uh. Can I marry her?
Not just yet. Come. I saw how you fought her. You lack skill, but you make up for it with experience and quick-thinking. 
Father! You can't be serious!
Please do. 
Koei-Tecmo
