The old man Wang was at a loss about how to begin, but upon hearing his old friend's words, he felt his eyes heat up with emotion. That's what being good brothers is all about—he hadn't even spoken yet, and his friend was already showing concern.
Old Man Wang was here to seek help, and now that the conversation was underway, there was no reason to hold back. He poured out his troubles all at once.
"... Brother Hua, if the Northern Cang invaders really attack, how can our small place withstand it? I can't stand idly by while the thousand or so people in Wang Village, young and old, are put in danger as the village chief. My heart aches. We old folks don't really mind, we've got few years left, and dying wouldn't be a pity, but it's the children that I feel sorry for. You've always been a capable person, Brother Hua, and I've thought this over and really can't think of anyone else to turn to but you..." As he spoke, Old Man Wang's eyes reddened.
