Chapter 6: The Honored Chair

The cabbage chair acquired a silk tassel before the general's next feast.

Mingzhong found it tied to the back and demanded an explanation.

Yanzhi looked offended by the suspicion.

"Guests kept asking which was the honored seat."

"You could tell them," Mingzhong said.

"Then I'd have to speak to them."

Shuqiao untied the tassel before his uncle arrived.

He put it around a wine jug instead.

The jug had done nothing to earn distinction, but it wouldn't become arrogant about it.

He was pleased with that thought and kept it private.

Yunting entered with two retired soldiers who walked slowly over the threshold.

They'd brought preserved turnips in a cloth bag.

One apologized for the plain gift before finishing his bow.

The general took the bag and opened it.

"You remembered the hot pepper."

The older man smiled.

Shuqiao watched his husband select a slice and eat it immediately.

His uncle would have sent the bag around to the kitchen unseen.

He wanted that first welcome to continue through the meal.

Then Qirong arrived and glanced at the soldiers' worn sleeves.

"There are side rooms for old acquaintances," he told Shuqiao.

He spoke softly enough to call it advice.

Both soldiers heard him.

Shuqiao lifted the cabbage chair from beside the kitchen door.

He set it at the head of the nearest table.

"This is the most comfortable chair in the house," he said.

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