Khan Bei's Journey - The Revelation

The army was ready to leave on Sun Jian’s orders. Han Dang, Cheng Pu and Huang Gai, his trusted officers, had made all preparations and the men were ready to depart. But there was someone missing.

Sun Jian had been told by the doctor, Khan Bei, that he would be ready to leave by the time his retinue was ready. But he was nowhere to be seen yet.

Taking action, he headed to Khan Bei’s clinic.

“Doctor! Are you here?” The Lord noticed that most of the herbs, medicines and other strange concoctions in the clinic had been sealed up, stored and locked under key. The one making all these arrangements was closing drawers and other containers.

“Apologies for the delay, Lord Sun Jian. I cannot have people trying to break into my clinic and steal my medicines. It might kill them.” The serious expression of the doctor didn’t betray the warning in his words. “There is one more thing I must collect before I go.”

Sun Jian's eyes widened as the unassuming healer transformed before him. The air crackled with newfound energy as Khan Bei, the humble physician, pulled out a weapon almost as tall at him: A massive podao, a stark contrast to his gentle demeanor, seemed to hum with power, a testament to his hidden strength.

"I, Khan Bei, the Heavenly Sword of Balance," he declared, his voice resonating with newfound authority, "will weigh the strength of your convictions, Lord Sun Jian."

Sun Jian, a seasoned warrior and a shrewd leader, was taken aback by this revelation. The man he had perceived as a mere healer was, in fact, a warrior of prophecy, a figure of immense power and destiny. A mixture of awe, surprise, and a flicker of apprehension flashed across his face.

"Khan Bei," Sun Jian began, his voice laced with newfound respect, "I am honored to have a Heavenly Sword in my ranks. But I must ask, why did you conceal your true identity?"

Khan Bei's gaze remained steady, his voice calm yet firm. "To observe, Lord Sun Jian," he replied, "To witness your actions, to judge your leadership, to see if your heart truly aligns with your words."

Sun Jian's expression hardened, a silent acknowledgment of the test he was undergoing. He had offered Khan Bei a position as a healer, not realizing the true extent of his power and purpose. Now, the Heavenly Sword of Balance was holding him accountable, demanding that he prove his worthiness as a leader.

"I understand," Sun Jian finally said, his voice resolute, "You have my word, Khan Bei. I will not disappoint you. I will lead with justice and compassion, and I will strive to create a world where balance and harmony prevail."

Khan Bei's eyes softened slightly, a flicker of approval in their depths. He had found a lord willing to be challenged, a leader who was open to scrutiny and growth.

"Then I, Khan Bei, the Heavenly Sword of Balance," he declared, his voice ringing with conviction, "pledge my sword and my wisdom to your cause, Lord Sun Jian. Together, we shall bring balance to this chaotic land."