Chen Xi quietly sighed as he observed Tao Qian's white hair and the figure that was hobbling with a cane to greet Liu Bei, reflecting on how unrelenting the passage of time truly was.
"I pay my respects to Lord Tao." Liu Bei, accompanied by Chen Xi and the rest of the entourage, greeted Tao Qian with a salute.
"Xuande is thoughtful as ever," Tao Qian said, hunched over and clutching his cane as he returned the gesture to Liu Bei, using the same appellation as in years past at Hulao Pass.
Though his body was frail as a spent candle in the wind, he still retained the spirited blood of a military general. Perhaps the recent bloodshed had allowed Tao Qian, despite his waning strength, to relive the ambiance of his youthful battles.
"Lord Tao," Liu Bei reached out to support Tao Qian, sensing that his time was running short.