Captain Li Shang was in the middle of his morning exercise routine, when he was interrupted by the sound of scratching and barking at the front door. He stood up, brushed the sweat beads from his forehead, and went to answer the door. He saw no one at first, but when he looked at his feet, he saw a small black and white dog waiting patiently on its haunches for the door to be opened. Momentarily he wanted to send the mutt away, then realized that it was Little Brother, Mulan’s dog. Little Brother dashed into the house between Shang’s legs, and sat panting behind him. He shut the door and reached down to pet the pup, when he found a scroll stuffed under his collar. Shang took the scroll and looked at it in wonder. Then scratched Little Brother behind the ear, and sat down beside him. The dog curled up in his lap and watched as he removed the hair comb and ribbon. As he started to read, his heart began to beat quickly. Mulan was going to be alone all day and wanted to see him. A million thoughts flashed through his mind, but he ignored them. This was truly an honor, to be requested to see her alone. The puppy had fallen asleep in his lap, so he gently pushed him onto the floor. Shang stood up, sighed, and smiled as he retired to his bedroom to change into some decent clothes. He was so excited he almost forgot to take off his pajamas before dressing. When he was finally ready, he grabbed Little Brother and Mulan’s hair comb, mounted his white horse, and set off for her village.

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