Chapter - 46 Two Killers In the Tempest (2) (1/2)
”Well, we can go outside and I can show you.” Senggum said.
”We are having a good time drinking, what are you trying to stir up now?” Ong Khan objected.
”Just sitting here and drinking is getting boring, let's see something different.” Wanyan Hongxi very much wanted to see some trouble started, so much so that he had already stood up by the time he finished his sentence and walked out. The others had no choice but to follow him.
The Mongolian troops had started several hundred camp fires and were celebrating beside them. When the Khans exited the ger, there was a huge rumble as the large section of troops to the west stood up immediately. They were lined up in perfect formation, not one of them was moving. They were none other than Temujin's troops. To the east, the Ong Khan's troops, slowly and disorganized, picked themselves up from the ground; there were even faint sounds of joking to be heard within their ranks.
”Even though the Ong Khan's troops are much more numerous, they can't compare with Temujin's troops!” Wanyan Honglie concluded upon seeing this display.
”Wine!” Temujin called. He had noticed, in the glow of the fire, that Jebe's face was still showing fury. So he ordered that a big jug of wine be brought to him.
”Today's tremendous victory over the Naiman was a result of everyone's hard work and dedication!” He loudly declared to everyone.
”It's because we were led by Ong Khan, Temujin Khan, and Jamuka!” All of the soldiers answered in one voice.
”Today, I saw someone who was especially brave, charging the enemy's rear no less than three times. He shot down several dozens of the enemy, who was he?” Temujin asked.
”Squad Leader Jebe!” The soldiers answered again.
”No, not Squad Leader, but company Commander Jebe!” Temujin corrected. Everyone was momentarily taken aback before realizing what he meant and began to cheer.
”Jebe is a great warrior! He well deserves to become a Company Commander!” They all shouted with approval.
”Bring my helmet to me!” Temujin instructed Jelme. Soon Jelme returned with the helmet and presented it to him.
”This is the helmet that I wear onto the battle field! This is the helmet that I wear as I kill my enemies!” Temujin raised the helmet high above his head for everyone to see. ”Now this will be a cup for a warrior to drink from!”
He opened the jug of koumiss and poured all of its contents into the helmet. Bringing it up to his lips, he took a huge gulp from the helmet, and then offered it to Jebe.
Overwhelmed with gratitude and with lowered head, Jebe knelt down on one knee to receive the helmet and finished the rest of the koumiss.