The Legacy of Tsu Chu

    By Saved Afridi

    The Legacy of Tsu Chu cover image

    25 Jun, 2024

    a man in a chinese costume standing in front of a group of men in front of a building with a sky background, dau-al-set, a comic book panel, Emperor Huizong of Song, official art

    Chen, a young soldier in the Han Dynasty, was fascinated by the game of Tsu Chu. It was not just a game for him, it was a symbol of discipline and unity.

    a painting of a man in a chinese costume walking in front of a crowd of people in front of a building, fantasy art, a comic book panel, Emperor Huizong of Song, official art

    Commander Li noticed Chen's interest in the game. He was a tough man with a soft corner for Tsu Chu, seeing it as a method of instilling discipline in his soldiers.

    a man in a kimono looking at a full moon in the sky over a group of people in a courtyard, dau-al-set, a comic book panel, Emperor Huizong of Song, comic cover art

    One night, Chen found Commander Li alone on the training grounds, playing Tsu Chu. He watched in awe as the commander effortlessly maneuvered the leather ball.

    a man in a kimono standing in front of a building with a full moon in the background and a full moon in the sky, dau-al-set, a character portrait, Emperor Huizong of Song, official art

    "Commander, teach me," Chen found himself asking. Li smiled, a rare sight, and nodded. That night, Chen learned more than just the rules of Tsu Chu.

    a painting of two men in traditional japanese garb walking in front of a pagoda with trees and a stone walkway, sots art, a comic book panel, Emperor Huizong of Song, official art

    Chen trained under Li, learning not just the techniques of Tsu Chu, but also values of respect, teamwork and discipline. The game was transforming him into a better soldier.

    a man in a kimono walking with a sword in his hand and a group of people in the background, dau-al-set, concept art, Emperor Huizong of Song, official art

    Chen's skills improved. He was no longer just a soldier. He was a player, a teammate. He saw the game as a unifying force, bringing together soldiers from different ranks.

    a group of men in traditional chinese garb walking in front of a crowd of people in a stadium, dau-al-set, a comic book panel, Emperor Huizong of Song, graphic novel

    Chen was chosen to lead his team in the grand Tsu Chu tournament. He felt a surge of pride, not for himself, but for the game that had taught him so much.

    a group of people in oriental costumes performing a dance in front of a crowd of people in a stadium, ukiyo-e, a comic book panel, Baiōken Eishun, official art

    The tournament was fierce. Teams from all over China showcased their skill and discipline. Chen led his team with determination, each kick, each pass echoing the lessons of Tsu Chu.

    a man in a kimono standing in front of a crowd of people in a chinese style building with a red sash around his neck, dau-al-set, a comic book panel, Emperor Huizong of Song, official art

    Chen's team won. As he held up the trophy, he felt an immense gratitude towards the game. It had transformed him, taught him valuable lessons, and brought them this victory.

    a man in a kimono standing in front of a crowd of people with red flags flying above him, socialist realism, a comic book panel, Cao Zhibai, kim jung gi

    Commander Li, proud and beaming, congratulated Chen. He saw a reflection of his younger self in Chen, the same love for Tsu Chu and the same spirit of a true soldier.

    a group of men standing next to each other on a sidewalk near a tree and a building with a red roof, dau-al-set, a detailed matte painting, Emperor Huizong of Song, graphic novel

    Years later, Chen found himself in Li's shoes, teaching the game of Tsu Chu to the next generation. He saw the same spark in their eyes, the same fascination for the game.

    a man in a kimono standing in front of a line of men in traditional chinese dress and holding a sword, dau-al-set, a character portrait, Emperor Huizong of Song, official art

    Chen realized the legacy of Tsu Chu would continue, shaping soldiers into disciplined and united teams. The ancient game had a long journey ahead, evolving into the modern football we know today.