Ma Yunlu
Junior Member
Happiness is not a reward--- it is a consequence. Suffering is not a punishment--- it is a result.
Posts: 68
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Post by Ma Yunlu on Feb 3, 2011 4:46:22 GMT
This is a flashback to a couple of years back, enjoy
The heat in these lands could bring about the deadliest of groughts, and yet people still chose to live in such areas; it could suffocate even the strongest of men and kill even the most trained body. The sun glared down at her, taunting her and with the training she was doing, it would be no surprise if she were to collapse from over exertion. Her muscles screamed out for water, but she refused to stop.
Ma Yunlu was here to prove that she could be just as strong as any other warrior in all of Han. With another jab of her blade, she let it drop and fell to her knee's panting. Drinking more water, she got up again, gritting her teeth in determination--- she would not going to give up.
How long had it been? Days? No only a few hours, but each ticking second felt like a lifetime of pain and dehydration was not helping her at all.
How were her brothers doing? Probably shining, but she was too focused on her own training to pay attention to the younger siblings she swore to protect. Yes, Ma Yunlu knew she was not the strongest, but she was their big sister and that meant she had to become stronger. With the times they were living in, sooner or later they would be attacked and Ma Yunlu would not fall victim to her own weakness.
In the distance, she could hear her father, encouraging them, pushing them to their limits and it was then she knew she had to try harder.
The day had finally come to an end, and the burning sun had sunk down just below the surface casting a red glare across the orange sand that stretched across the land. Ma Yunlu was happy with her results, her father praising her just as he praised her brothers and he admitted to being impressed with her will and strength.
A gentle breeze had befallen the land, caressing her skin and hair as if congratulating her hard work for the day. Of course, there would be more rigorous training tomorrow morning, but she would enjoy the relaxing moments she had at this time. Turning to look around, she wondered where her family was, probably discussing politics somewhere or nestled in their rooms relaxing just as she was. But their was one person she would have liked to join her.
Ma Yunlu would never admit it, but the bond she had with the eldest of her brothers was stronger than the rest. She loved Ma Xiu and Ma Tie just as much, but with Chao it was somewhat different, perhaps because he was the closest to her in age.
Despite them being back from training for a couple of hours, Ma Yunlu was still dressed in her training garb, considering a few more exercises before going to bed. Still, the scenery and the breeze had captivated her and so she sat on the ground, legs crossed and leaning back to enjoy the simple pleasures of nature.
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Sol
New Member
"Once upon a time I was of the mind"
Posts: 35
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Post by Sol on Feb 3, 2011 7:08:54 GMT
Chapter 1 Horizon’s Embrace Keep your dreams alive. Understand to achieve anything requires faith and belief in yourself, vision, hard work, determination, and dedication. Remember all things are possible for those who believe
”Ma Tie, you call that a swing!?...”
Every word spoken was a harsh illusion to inflict embarrassment and strife, each insult sharp enough to tear away at one’s pride if not prepared. The view would seem to be as if the eldest brother was bullying his younger siblings, but the real meaning was only notice by the one that training all the young Lions of Liang. If it hadn’t been for blood line, flesh would have been drawn based on the heated tension roaming the atmosphere….and with the roaring temperature conjuring up mirages only added to the frustration.
It’s been the eighth session back to back of Ma Chao dueling with both of his brothers and each time became more challenging then the next. In his mind he knew he was out ranking them in skill of combat, but he couldn’t help the fact that their darting eyes were becoming hungrier for victory each time. It actually concerned him if they would even go as far as life threatening attempts to archive a win. Those thoughts alone made him more alert then usual. After a while his mind spaced out the fact they were family and targeted them as hungry savages.
While caught in a stand off, mengqi took the time to notice His father off in a distance with his hands tied across his chest, observing keenly of every move made by his children. The instant eye contact between the two made the elder brother nervous. It was obvious Ma Teng had known the whole process that was going on in Chao’s mind as well the other two brothers. It drove him mad that his father had the ability to read him so openly, even in his times of stoic. Regardless there was nothing he could do about it and his only option were to carry out his train of thought as his father viewed
what are you two planning next!?
His legs bend and feet ready to move on command. He studied both his brother’s movements position themselves parallel from one another, blades edging towards him. Every step made by them was made in attempts to find any signs of weakness from their opponent, they resembled tigers who had just cornered their prey and unaware of its strengths and flaws. He had to admit they have grown since their last few encounters….but bad habits were hard to break
”Brother Chao! I will have my victory!” ”Tie!” Insults always affected Ma Tie judgment, leading him to do actions he regretted as well Xiu. Ma Chao easily averted himself from the hurling downward chop made by Tie and used his own momentum to double the impact of his knee heading for his gut to have Tie gasping for air while still eyeing Xiu. As he rushed in to make a slice, Ma Chao evaded and absorbed the slash. With timed speed, Ma Chao was able to have Xiu’s hand hit against his belly and retrain it there with his other hand tightening around it. Unfortunately, within process of trying to prevent Ma Chao’s actions, Xiu tried to pull back away and manage to cut mengqi at his side
”Broth-!? Ugh!!” Xiu was nearly startled by the drip of blood leaking down his blade, but before he could tend to his brother’s condition, he was socked in the face by a firm strike sending him to the sand. Before he could process the pain, he felt cold steel along his neck and to his surprise his brother showing little pain from his wound. In Xiu’s eyes he seen it as a injury, but to Chao it was only a small scratch through what he’s been through with his father and bandits
”That’s enough! Xiu, Tie!.....well done! Despite being defeated once again, that was the first time I’ve seen you two show eyes of valor towards your brother. ”
10 minutes later Ma Chao clothes battered and face fouled by both the sand and sweat produce from countless hours of training. He couldn’t help but be impressed with both his brothers for being focus for so long, a normal solider would have broken from temperatures and fatigue. He had to praise them for efforts, something rarely seen from the splendid warrior. But it was close to the time where blades had to be placed away and their father would have to return back to the kingdom for further diplomatic routines as well the rest of them. With that dawning the warriors mind his mind ventured off to the secrete part of their family. She had trained with them at the beginning of their section and then brought of by their father for a one on one session while he dealt with the younger brother. He couldn’t help the fact to wonder of her condition. His brother’s urged him to return to gain the proper treatment for his injury, but it was all easily ignored with a simple nodded that had no meaning. In times like this was always a regular thing for him to spent time alone with his older sister and view the beautiful sight. His father had known as well it was nearing towards it…so he seemly too his leave with the younger brother and left the other two to have their bond
It wasn’t long for Mengqi to witness his sister viewing the crimson horizon as it swallowed the entire desert in its radiance. It was unexplainable for him to express how he felt on the surroundings, the feelings alone were almost overwhelming too the point he felt nearly unworthy to be in its presence. He could only imagine how his sister felt about it, since they body had a hobby of viewing such beauties as this. Eventually the gaze was broken by the fact he didn’t announce his presence and settled himself along her side. With legs stretched out and both arms placed as back support, he began to gaze off and feel the soft tender breeze blow along his hair and skin.
”Sister, did you intend on enjoying such a wonderful sight without me?”
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Ma Yunlu
Junior Member
Happiness is not a reward--- it is a consequence. Suffering is not a punishment--- it is a result.
Posts: 68
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Post by Ma Yunlu on Feb 3, 2011 9:20:04 GMT
How long had she been out there? Eyes shut, muscles now relaxed rather than screaming in pain like much earlier. It didn't matter, she had no will to leave. Instead, she would camp out here for a while and when night hand consumed their lands only then would she retire to her room.
Ma Yunlu could feel another person was there, but she refused to speak or to let the person know she was aware of their presence. As he sat down beside her she instantly knew who it was, there was no need to open her eyes or to even hear his voice. She could always tell when it was her brother Chao.
"Not quite brother, for I knew you of all people would be able to find me."
She finally opened her eyes and turned to look at him, a tiny smile on her face. It was moments like these she treasured. When she could sit down and enjoy the company of her brother. Watching him carefully she looked back to the scenery, the red glow slowly fading away as if the sand fighting back to regain it's pure color.
"I'm surprised you Tie and Xiu are still alive."
Despite being pulled away by her father so she could train alone, much to her own disappointment, she could still hear the chaos that was ensuing from her three brothers. It had been known for quite sometime that of all of them, Chao was by far the strongest. And yet, the other two were always competitive either trying to win second to Chao or even to somehow fight for the title of strongest. It was part of the faults of having a father much like their own, each child wanted to prove their worth and Yunlu was no exception.
Yunlu eyed where her brothers would would be. She had not seen him receive it, but she had seen the aftermath. In reality, she had seen her brother receive greater wounds, but if training did this it must have meant the youngest two of the family were improving greatly.
Yunlu was about to comment, but time and time again she had to remind herself that Chao was strong now and he was no longer a little child she could push around and tease. Still, she always felt like it was her duty to look out for her brother, no matter his strength and no matter the circumstance.
Looking away from him, she played with her discarded light armor on the ground, sure it was just training, but her father believed it was best she train under the circumstance she would go to battle with. Including armor and the limited amount of water she had. His training was brutal and excruciatingly difficult and painful, but she believed it was for the best. If her brothers could do it, then she should as well. Of course, she knew her mother always complained that their father was too hard on her, that she was a lady who should be treated delicately, but before her father could speak a word, Yunlu herself would interject explaining to her mother that it was all for the greater good and she needed to be strong.
Yunlu stole a look at her brother, from the corner of her eye she could see that as fierce as he was as a warrior, he would forever be her brother. One she could always push around and tease even in times of strife.
"A pity I could not be with you, I suppose even father has come to realize that you three would be weighing me down whilst training."
The reality was that her father believed that it would be best the three boys fight it out while he would stand their shouting out words of motivation and encouragement, or a taunt to keep her going. Yes, sometimes her father could be quite cruel to herself and her brothers. But once training was over and done with, he returned to the loving father he always was. Sometime coddling her to the extent that reminded her of times when she was just merely a young girl.
Her mind began to wander to those days. Where she would place her hands on her hips and boss her little brothers around, shouting commands to them while they foolishly followed her. Their father sat from afar watching and an evident look of laughter on his face. It had been fun then, picking up a mock sword usually a tiny twig and commanding her brother to run around doing meaningless tasks. By the end of the day, the four would return to the side of their father and he would nod his head as they retold their wild adventures and the many battles they won in the matter of a few hours.
Yunlu could not help but smile and soon enough that turned into a tiny laugh. She wondered if Ma Chao remembered, how innocent and naive they were all those years ago. Where they knew nothing of the bloodshed happening just outside the perfect world they lived in. Would he be able to remember a time when they ran around their home without a fear that their home could be burnt down in an instant. They were lucky children, not knowing that somewhere else a child sat on rubble crying out to his mother who was buried not far below.
Memories swept into her mind, and the after affects of their training had been blown away with the breeze. Turning to Ma Chao, she wondered if perhaps he thought she had gone temporarily insane with her laughter or if he perhaps knew exactly what she was thinking. Such times were so distant, and yet so fresh in her mind it felt as if it had happened only a few days before. As much as she enjoyed bonding with her brothers now over training, she missed the times when the battle for the strongest child was just a part of childhood playtime and it all only meant the difference between the victor of a silly game they forget within the hour.
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Sol
New Member
"Once upon a time I was of the mind"
Posts: 35
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Post by Sol on Feb 3, 2011 19:06:52 GMT
Chapter 2 Solider's Past, Children's Dream What is the appropriate behavior for a man or a woman in the midst of this world, where each person is clinging to his piece of debris? What's the proper salutation between people as they pass each other in this flood?
Ma Chao couldn’t help but to submit to a small grin surfacing his smoked face. Even with duration of silence, their very hearts connected with volume as like the mixture of the scenery encircling them. Her acknowledgement through her calm breathing revealed that she knew the identity, her words even adding more proof. It didn’t dawn to him how solid her words were, to the fact that he more then anyone along the lands of Wu Wei could find her. On several times it took him little time to locate her, especially among the sands
It actually gave him a hidden laugh to the fact that all of the Ma Family lived off of such dangerous conditions and consider their predator plains to be comforting grounds in comparison to their quarters back in the kingdom. One could say that they knew the whole desert as if they had a map…but at times when their eldest sister excused herself from the rest, only he could get to her. It only showed how much they knew each other mentally.
As he began to inhale the hush air and exhale the tenseness of his soul, he smirked to his older sibling’s comments of survival. A rare experience from many outside of the family to see, Ma Chao was more serious and straight forward towards others…but towards his family, especially his sister…he was more relaxed and able to relief his mind. As he made eye contact with his sister, compliments from the sun flicker within Chao’s hazel eyes to reveal a more appealing feature, drawing away from his smothered face.
” to carry the name of the Ma family brings survival, not even these fierce temperatures can that away from us. ”
His attention once again got drawn to the view, he didn’t want to move so much to irritate his wound for the sake of Yunlu. She had a habit of tending to wounds when given the opportunity. What bothered him was that she’d worried even if she didn’t express as much. It was in her nature to look out for her younger siblings and quick to discard her own benefits for there’s. it many times pushed Chao to fight harder in battles, just for the fact that he didn’t want to return to see the anguish in his sister’s eyes. This was obviously a trait passed on from their mother…but she still had many of father’s traits as she made a statement that made Mengqi raise an eyebrow and cause an unsettle look
Ma Chao had the ability to down in Xiu and Tie’s skin….but Yunlu had the ability to get down his
”I can see Tie and Xiu, but me!? Sister, I’ve followed father into the abyss of death and back! HA! I am far from ankle weights. ”
He shortly laughed in his train thought as he notice and twig not far out of view
”beside, in time of youth I followed you and father’s orders down to detail…I still remember father promoted me as grand commander at the age of 8! A strong achievement”
Slowly he began to realize that father had made all of them grand commander as well during the time…he quickly silenced himself with intention of letting the air change the subject to avoid Yunlu being aware of it as well. As much as he was worked up, he did enjoyed these small childish times with his older sister. It was only times like these he can fall victim of rest and become a civilian in time of peace as apposed to his role as Ma Chao the Splendid who lack smiles and only used his sword as a way of expressing his view of justice and times of turmoil.
He noticed her laugh but all he could do was take part in it, he wasn’t too sure if they were viewing the same memories, but he knew she was lost in the ages as he was of their childhood. Shortly he began to dance his hand infront of the light gleaming across his face, observing how stained they were from training
”in times like these we need laughter to ease the stress. I just hope in the future he get times like these…even if its once a month”
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Ma Yunlu
Junior Member
Happiness is not a reward--- it is a consequence. Suffering is not a punishment--- it is a result.
Posts: 68
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Post by Ma Yunlu on Feb 3, 2011 20:58:42 GMT
At times like these, she cursed the continuum of time itself. Why couldn't she stop time from ticking, prolonging the peaceful moments she had with her brother. Sometimes, it would seem that the mere minutes spent together would feel like peaceful stretches of hours. But with the idea that there would be more training the following day, this was not going to last very long.
Ma Yunlu could hear the laughter in his voice and it made her smile brighter. If there was one thing Ma Yunlu loved the most, it was knowing that herself and her brother were always on the same page.
Ma Yunlu gripped the ground beneath her, the thick sand balled into her fist. It had become a constant companion through living here. Lifting her hand, she opened her palm, the sand floating away on the current of wind that had taken over their land.
Sand was associated with the scorching heat of the desert, with the droughts the could wipe away villages upon villages of people, but to her--- sand was beautiful. It was the smooth stretch of land that broke her fall when she collapsed. It was the smooth earth that cradled her when she would fall asleep under the stars. To her, the sand was the most beautiful treasure of their lands and sitting here enjoying it with her brother was the greatest gift of them all.
"And yet, I still command you around much like we were younger---" she paused, turning to look at him and giving him a mocking look as if she was the strongest of them all.
"--- the gods have already decided, I shall carry the name of our family and you three follow me through my times of glory. But do not fret brother, I have always been quite good at sharing."
They both knew that it would be Chao who would carry their family name, he would be the familys crown jewel, but it never prevented Ma Yunlu from teasing him and claiming to be the strongest of all three.
"Have you never wondered why father always took you and sometimes the other two on his little expeditions? He knows very well that my presence would cause even the manliest of men to tremble and then I wouldn't be able to find myself a husband."
Although in her opinion that didn't sound like a bad idea. Ma Yunlu was not against being married off, it was just that she felt she was not ready and there was much more to experience of this world before she was forced to settle down.
Ma Yunlu laughed harder at his mention of his 'promotion'. How could she forget. Ma Chao had puffed his chest out, marching around with a mock sword telling everyone of his great achievement. Ma Yunlu remembered running to her father and complaining that she should be allowed to have as much power as her little brother. It was then her father whispered in her ear and appointed her the same title and she rushed off to Chao mocking him that he was no longer special.
Nostalgia was always welcomed to her; it provided the escape she always wanted and a comforting topic that she could always seek solace in. Now, to be able to share it with her brother only made her more relaxed and she desperately wanted this night to go on for much longer.
Her laughter slowly died down, and as he extended his hand, she did as wel, only catching his in a strong grip. She sat up, eyes hardened. She never wanted these moments to end and so he had to promise her.
"Brother, promise me that no matter what happens... that you will never cease to laugh with me even in times of great despair."
She was unsure why she wanted him to make this promise, but knowing that nights were to grow darker and days would become much shorter... she needed to know that he will forever be the same Ma Chao that she had grown up with.
"Promise me that I will always have someone to laugh with even when the time of laughter has grown scarce."
In her mind she would always find a time to laugh with her brother, but she had to hear it from his lips that he would always be there to share their past and laugh at their childish ways.
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Sol
New Member
"Once upon a time I was of the mind"
Posts: 35
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Post by Sol on Feb 4, 2011 2:36:23 GMT
Chapter 3 Guardian of the Restless Host Hope is like the sun, which, as we journey toward it, casts the shadow of our burden behind us
”Sister I don’t think any man would be able to handle your fierce ways…you spend most of your time training more than Pang De”
Her smiles and laughter was at ease, her mind temporarily at peace and her very features as a crystal lake. This was why he fought eagerly in every clash, every chase, every victory, every lost he’s been in. it was for this very moment to relief his Sister from bearing arms. And not just for her, but for the people among the lands of Wu Wei. Many viewed the people of Liang province as a plague of savages and no greater then a thief in the night and below status of a filthy dog. It pained him a great deal that he couldn’t do anything to change the minds of others. If not for the rebellion, maybe all the eyes that kept watch of Ma Chao and his father during Dong Zhou reign would have been more different
Although his face held the same expression of laughter, his heart slowly saddened to the reality outside of the desert. They were in a time of war and he couldn’t help but feel sorrow for what chaos has to offer him and his people. He knew that any day of body counts, his family could be among the numbers. While viewing his hand, he was startled from his sister grasping onto his had with tight pressure. It was coming as if she thought he would disappear and never return again.
Afterglow
”Sis-”
Before he could say word he noticed how serious her face had gotten. Did she some how feel the sadden emotions that tangled around his heart? He knew their bond was strong, but he wouldn’t expect it to be this far of even reaching one another’s hidden feelings. All he could do at this point was await her words that she had to relief herself
"Brother, promise me that no matter what happens... that you will never cease to laugh with me even in times of great despair”……. "Promise me that I will always have someone to laugh with even when the time of laughter has grown scarce.”
His head nonchalantly tugged back off into the horizon, his hazel eyes filled with strife of tangled emotions. His mind tried to persuade him that such a task was possible, but his heart fuel with despair. Both began to wrestle for the tongue’s speech and neither gave in. He was lost for words and left his sister in a silence for a time. With no signal, she would feel a response from him, not from his words but with a firm grip of their hands in lock
”Sister, it true that when it comes to the battlefield i am loyal to my words and bare strength physically…..but even I have weaknesses….there will be times when chaos has blinded me from breaking a smile…”
His grip tightened even more as he thought about how he could change into an embodiment of war. His beliefs for justice were great and something all of them knew Ma Chao for. He feared that one of these days he’d follow it into the realm of the shadows just to bring light to all others.
”Ma Yunlu, I’ll need you to shed light upon me if that’s to happen….its then I’ll find my way back to smiling once again”
It hurt him a lot to say such things to his sister, but he knew his heart to be true. If he dared to accept her promise, he wouldn’t be able to live with himself once it was broken. He was always able to provide for his sister when she had an request….he didn’t plan on taking such a task he knew he would fail
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Ma Yunlu
Junior Member
Happiness is not a reward--- it is a consequence. Suffering is not a punishment--- it is a result.
Posts: 68
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Post by Ma Yunlu on Feb 4, 2011 5:03:14 GMT
Her eyes could not see it at first, but her heart told her that something troubled her brother. Her grip was tighter as if she was holding him back from leaving her. He may not physically leave her, but one day his emotions would be pushed aside and he would be nothing but a shell, no longer her brother.
She brushed aside his comment of training, now she was too focused on the matter at hand. Her family's happiness was the most important thing to her and she would sacrifice everything just to see all of them smile--- especially Chao.
She knew he had weaknesses, they all did and her greatest weakness was her family. refusing to let go of his hand, as if it was the one thing keeping her alive she focused on the side of his face. He may not be looking at her, but through sheer will she will have him look back, so that he could see that she was not backing down from him, never would she give up on her brother no matter what became of him.
Taking a deep breath, she parted her lips to speak, but no sound was made. She was calculating, wanting to choose her words wisely. Some said that words could only mean so much, but for her words could be the most powerful tool a person could use, if chosen wisely.
"I will not have my brother live a life where a single smile is non existent. I will tell you this, that I will do whatever it is in my power to make sure that even in the darkest of times, there will always be a light shining for you to soothe you in times of despair."
While her father was the foundation of her family, her brother was the strong hold that made their family shine. He had been her light for so long, the least she could do was be his.
"I will promise you that no matter what becomes of you, I will be there. When even heaven cannot save you, then I will and I will be your light."
She squeezed his hand once more before finally letting go, turning to the fading sunlight that was almost completely gone.
"Besides, someone here has to shoulder this family. Especially you."
Her lips were in a slight smile, she was back to teasing him, but her promise was not a tease, but a promise she would never break--- no matter what it took. If ma Yunlu had to go to the ends of the earth to make her brother smile once more... she would.
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Sol
New Member
"Once upon a time I was of the mind"
Posts: 35
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Post by Sol on Feb 8, 2011 0:45:56 GMT
Chapter 4 Prisoner To Justice Justice and power must be brought together, so that whatever is just may be powerful, and whatever is powerful may be just.
His eyes that were full of ambition had lacked its fire for a moment, it was the first time in a while his eyes became so shallow. With memories of the fallen during Dong Zhou reign, discarding his blade of justice felt tempting. He knew bloodshed would have to continue for peace to be realized, but at the same time it would cause sorrow for those around him. With a pause of silence, Mengqi ponder if it really was worth his own blade taking countless lives. Each time he returned back from battle, he would try to persuade himself into believing it’d be the last….knowing he was only playing false words to his soul
Suddenly he felt the grip of his sister get tighter, yet he still refused to look in fear of what her expression would be. His nervous expression breaching his face proved he was flustered. As much as he tried to hide his frustration as best he could, it was way too easy for her to read. While darting off into the shifting sky, his eyes became more vibrant from his sister’s words. It was something he didn’t expect to hear for from her. Each would she bared held truth to his will to continue on in his rigid journey through the chaos. She even managed to get a small laugh out of him once again after her words of his responsibility.
”Sister, come let us go back. Father will have my head if he finds his third in command sick”
Shortly he arose to his feet with his iris filled with a fiery look. His hunger for justice was desirous then before. It was clear in his mind that no matter how far in ventured in the realm on darkness, there would still be a light for him to follow if he was too be consumed. The only question would be if he’d be capable to draw himself towards it…….
”gyaahh!”
A short yet solid call was made to bring his desert horse not too far of their radius. Ma Chao had a talent for horse and possessed a great skill of bonding with them. There was never a time a horse had given him a cold shoulder and more cooperated with and actions he gave.
”come”while speaking, he quickly mounted his horse and extended his arm towards her, giving a soft and gentle smile”We must take our leave now….times are getting dark….and I’m sure your in no shape to take on wild dogs or bandits…”( not my best post…I’ll get better by next post, promise)
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Ma Yunlu
Junior Member
Happiness is not a reward--- it is a consequence. Suffering is not a punishment--- it is a result.
Posts: 68
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Post by Ma Yunlu on Feb 8, 2011 21:26:26 GMT
Ma Yunlu was unable to fully see his expression, his face turned, but being able to see his profile; she could picture the expression on his face. Turning to look back upon the horizon, she stopped speaking, there was a silence for a moment and she heard the faint chuckle of her brother.
At the mention of their father she could only nod, it was true their father would not be pleased if one of them was to become sick, while she bit back a teasing remark, she watched as he called his horse.
Standing up, she watched him mount his horse, then took his hand and was pulled up by her brothers strength. She smiled warmly to him as well then settled herself on the horse behind him.
"Now brother, if you tell any of our brothers or even father about my words tonight, I will cut your tongue. Last thing I need is for them to think I've grown soft."
She poked him playfully on the side and waited for him to take them back home. (Just thought I'd made it short to move it along, definitely not my best)
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Sol
New Member
"Once upon a time I was of the mind"
Posts: 35
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Post by Sol on Feb 11, 2011 5:34:08 GMT
Chapter 5 Voice of the distant Dragon Life…the essence of living, to breathe, to nourish, to create. To exist on a common plain and known no difference
”I have kept all your secrete since I could walk….why break them now?”
The sabulous stallion rhythm became rapid, startled from the barking commands of its rider. Sand began to disperse from each hoof, dancing in suspense. Its pace accelerated with a final shout, turning the scenery into a race as if it was the competition. The celestial body that ruled the night revealed its presence, encoding the field into shades of blue. It was complimented with minions of light, helping to enhance its radiant beauty. Streaks of wind graced through the mengqi’s hair, massaging his scalp. Surfing the sands on his stallion was where he became more alive then ever. He had become one in mind with his four legged fellow, he could feel all senses from the beast as if it was his own. Slowly he arched his back, resting his face on the jolting head of his horse
”Sister, rest your head on my back…it seems we got ourselves a lively one. We’ll be home in no time”
sometime prior to Ma Chao’s depature
”……….”
”Son, why do you continue to act this way!? I’m your father since birth! And for the last few days…I feel as if I only have Ma Tie and Xiu”
”……….”
”Answer me!”
His hands were tied down by both his father’s foot and knee, the collar of his robe caught in the fist of his angered father. Mengqi could hardly feel the rest of his body from the numerous blows taken from the one who raised him. Momentarily his focus zone out with diming shades, but his soul held him back to reality by every heart beat. His arms surged with throbbing pain from absorbing blows from his father earlier on in their brawl. His hesitation in words was suspended from his mind reviewing what happen in footsteps to their brawl. Mengqi spirit had fled from the kingdom of his father, due to the secrete quarrels of Ma Teng and Han Sui. It had touched his honor for representing his father, shameful emotions dwelled in him. These bottle emotions just continue to grow, to the point that he couldn’t handle it any longer. From the countless nights of running missions, to days of riding his horses, Ma Chao continue to fade from his beloved family…including his sister. All these times of absence were to clear his guilt spirit and to find the reason why he’d lost so much faith in a kingdom he vowed to protect. It constantly haunted him and he needed to purify it by any means necessary. He knew what he would had to do in order to free of himself
”Father I know of your actions between Han Sui ….i won’t dare to grace the air with your dishonorable actions. ”he paused in sentence to stroke his face on is stretched rob, removing the dried blood off his cheek”Han Sui is your sworn brother….i you both fight for the same cause….i still can’t believe you’d stoop so low. If only you could see the memories I hold of the fearful eyes all caused by your actions”
Slowly he felt the retrain loosen and his father remove himself to give him freedom of his body. He notice his father’s back was facing him, and all he could do was stare with a glare of disappointment. He knew just as he did that there was nothing he could do or say to ease the feelings he had. The very man who built the urge for justice within him had turned to the very realm Dong Zhou had fed off of. It sicken him to his stomach and his eyes could only narrow in to his feet
”Father….you don’t have to say word……Times of war has tempted you to do devilish actions. And I know now that your eye has found yourself out…I only pray that you do the right thing now….. ” removing the remaining stains he approached the door to leave the private chamber ”I shall take my leave from Liang father…please allow me to cleanse this anguish within me…every step I make in these land only beats away at the pain I feel for those I tried to protect”
Lost for words, Mengqi departed from the private chambers and left Ma Teng in drowning anguish of his sinful deeds. Although Ma Chao’s body suffered extreme amount of blows from fist and objects, it held no bar against the several scars he inflicted on his father’s heart. They were ones that could possibly haunt him for the rest of his life unless he found away to atone for his sins. Staggering his way, he found himself outside at the stables. His mind was lost in tangles of memories and random thoughts of what he would do next. To his attention his body gave out on him and he stumble against the fence guarding the horses. He didn’t pass out from exhaustion, but he needed to take the time to rest himself mentally more then physically. He’s token more punishment then this in his days…it was only because of who landed the blows on him and the doubt in his mind why the pain felt much more then it was
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Ma Yunlu
Junior Member
Happiness is not a reward--- it is a consequence. Suffering is not a punishment--- it is a result.
Posts: 68
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Post by Ma Yunlu on Feb 14, 2011 2:13:03 GMT
Ma Yunlu knew he wouldn't speak a single word, she was so grateful to having him for a brother. Resting her head on his back she shut her eyes, exhaustion finally hitting her hard.
"Wake me when we get home."
The drumming beat of the horses hooves and the gentle soothing sound from the wind sang her a soft lullaby. Her eyes began to grow heavy and she no longer fought the urge to sleep, with her eyes shut and her head rested against her brother back, she felt safe. She dozed off into a deep slumber not to be awakened until they arrived home.
--------------------------
Ma Yunlu listened silently, sitting on the ground, legs tucked beneath her. Her head was bowed sorrow present on her face. Everything her father asked, she too wanted to know the answer for, but Ma Chao remained silent. Her two other brothers were training, she was going to go, until Xiu had mentioned that Chao and her father were to have a discussion.
The only barrier was that of the thin wall, she didn't have to see the two to know how their expressions were. If anything, she would prefer not seeing them, but she had to be here, she had to know what was going on... this was her father and the closest brother she had.
Then she heard it, her father was now using physical force, the door was left barely open and as she peered in, her eyes widened. Her father had Chao pinned to the ground, grasping him with one hand. With every hit her fingers balled into an even tighter fist and it took every ounce of control to not run in and try to stop her father. Was he going to hurt Chao? Was he going to kill him? No, her father was not that sort of man
And then he spoke...
Her brothers voice was controlled, not even a hint of anger, but she could sense the betrayal and perhaps some shame. With every word Ma Chao spoke, her heart clenched tighter in pain. All this time that was why he was behaving this way? Why didn't he talk to her? Why didn't her tell her all this? For a moment, she felt betrayed by her brother, but now she felt anguish that it had come to her fathers fists for Chao to speak up.
Looking through the barely opened door, she saw her father release Chao and she was relieved, but her brothers continuing words made her look away. Was that how he saw their father? Yes, he had made mistakes, but was here really partaking in devilish actions? She didn't want to believe it, but perhaps it was true.
Ma Yunlu had enough. As her brothers voice went quiet she got up and pushed open the doors, rushing in, only to watch as a bloody Ma Chao walked right past her.
"Brother!"
She called out, but he was gone. Turning back to her father, she ran up to him, his back facing her. She tried to speak, but everytime she tried, no words came to mind.
"Father?"
Her voice was soft, weak and scared. It was obvious by her tone that she had seen and heard everything, but what could she do to make this better?
"Leave me Ma Yunlu."
She wanted to protest, but she couldn't as he turned to look at her, she could see her father be taken aback by the tears that were starting to form. Usually he would tell her to hide her tears for she was more powerful than that. Instead he walked towards her and hugged her, placing a gentle kiss on her head.
"Wherever he goes, I promise I'll take care of him."
And she was gone, not seeing the saddened look on her fathers face nor the nod he gave her. Ma Yunlu ran, following the footsteps of her brother. Seeing him at the stables, she sprinted, noticing him stumble. She immediately made to grab him, standing just in front of him.
"Brother please!"
In that instant she wrapped her arms around him, giving her little brother a hug that she hadn't given him in quite some time. She didn't want to let go, for fear that he would leave this place and she would never see him again. No, she wouldn't allow it. She had made a promise, and she would keep it. If this was one of those moments where she could be her brothers light... she will be. He just needed to give her the chance.
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Sol
New Member
"Once upon a time I was of the mind"
Posts: 35
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Post by Sol on Feb 19, 2011 18:46:43 GMT
Chapter 6 Fallen Into Grace o the ground I bow, face caked with blood, sweat, and dirt. All around my world crumbles, the weight of earth shattering upon my shoulders. Despair plaguing my very existence; I take a knee with my very soul eroded in pain
All throbbing in his body quickly mellowed out as his mind completely numbed the pain to focus on more troublesome concern. Mengqi felt as if it were a dream, everything he’s grown to know has shattered in an instant. The banner that he’s swung around in pride was secretly tainted by the screams and cries of the very people he swore to protect. The innocent were victims all thanks to two sworn brother who saw different paths, fighting with one another to prove their point by sacrificing the people.
His legs gave way at the same time his vision blocked by his eyelids. To his surprise he didn’t feel the impact of the ground he coursed for. In stead he felt an embrace and his chin settled on the shoulders of his sister. Upon body contact, he could feel her heart beat racing rapid from the scene she had barged into not long ago. It grieved him to be the cause of her being filled with fear and hidden in the dark. Ma Chao was too much of a burden bearer to have Ma Yunlu even stomach the situation. But of course now he would have to tell her since he had already had in mind he would be leaving
”Sister, don’t blame father for my condition…it was me that threw the first blow….my anger got the best of me….Did father tell you anything ?”
He wasn’t sure whether or not that Ma Teng had told her about what triggered the quarrel between them and if she knew he planned on leaving the lands of Liang to clear his head. If she hadn’t then it would break her heart that he would part from the lands they were born and raised in. Something with in him figured she would follow nonetheless, but he would make attempts to prevent her from coming
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Ma Yunlu
Junior Member
Happiness is not a reward--- it is a consequence. Suffering is not a punishment--- it is a result.
Posts: 68
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Post by Ma Yunlu on Feb 20, 2011 7:18:23 GMT
Ma Yunlu shook her head, even if he threw the first punch their father shouldn't have reacted the way he did. Of course, she had missed the beginning, but that didn't mean she disagreed with her brothers words.
"Brother, I do not care who swung first. You have a right to voice your opinion. I... I cannot bear to witness father follow the path to becoming a tyrant."
She paused, her arms guiding her brother gently to the ground so he could sit up and lean comfortably again the wall. She placed a hand on his shoulder and the other on the side of his face, she wanted to keep him focused and alert.
"Father said nothing, but I've heard enough. This can all be fixed, we can all sit down and talk about it. Please brother, do not act so hastily. Father is an understanding man we need to talk to him."
She would mediate, she would do anything to keep this family strong. Ma Yunlu was heartbroken by the fact that her brother and father had fought, never had she seen her father use his fist to discipline his children and she wanted to make all of this better, but how would she be able to do this?
Ma Yunlu didn't know what to do with her brother, he was bruised up, but there was no one in sight and she doubted he would want to go back inside.
"Let us go to the village so you can rest up, we cant talk there."
Ma Yunlu saw the nearest horse, it would be hard to get her brother onto it, but she would be able to do it... hopefully he wouldn't fight it.
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Sol
New Member
"Once upon a time I was of the mind"
Posts: 35
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Post by Sol on Feb 23, 2011 4:04:30 GMT
Chapter 7 Spoken Words I seek justice for those who are no longer able to speak up. I speak out for those who died because you were a coward! I will search for you until my feet bleed from exhaustion
Her voice shallow in strength, her cheeks blush with hints of dried tears. Mengi’s vision was dim, but he was well aware his dear sister was hurt. The anguish that stored in her eyes only fueled his anger from each glimpse. If not for their father’s foolish deeds, they would be training right now and preparing to strengthen their forces. As he was guided and comforted by his sister, flash backs crept into his mind in thoughts of a man he encountered during the conquest against Dong Zhou. all images were vivid to the sandy haired warrior, but the name was locked away from his mind. He was quickly drawn back as she mentioned that things could be fixed with words. An angered expression grew shortly on his face
”That man has spat on everything he’s fought against and tasted the very spirit that possessed Dong Zhou! No words will solve what my eyes have seen, yet alone… the stained grounds!”
He’s anger boiled his blood, his muscle tensed on each thought of the time he uncovered the man pulling the strings. Although he was mad, he knew he needed to calm himself before something drastic happened. It was a characteristic not seen in Mengqi, only because none has witness it. There were times in concealed areas Chao would lash out, he'd pray this would not surface in front of her of all people
As his sister mention for them to journey to a village, he already rose to his feet while ignoring the pain inflicted. He would mount on the horse and have her sister ride….all that he wanted to do was go far away from these lands, before it would turn him into something he would regret
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Ma Yunlu
Junior Member
Happiness is not a reward--- it is a consequence. Suffering is not a punishment--- it is a result.
Posts: 68
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Post by Ma Yunlu on Feb 24, 2011 4:11:03 GMT
Ma Yunlu listened as her brother spoke so ill of their father. It took everything in her not to break down at his words. Was this the path her family was going to take? She didn't want it to be so, but something told her that very soon things were going to change.
She didn't respond to the venomous words she never thought she would hear from Chao. With every angry word, it was as if a knife was being impaled deeper and deeper into her heart. Still, she kneeled there, supporting the sibling she was once close to. Chao was still in there somewhere, but in her mind an unknown entity had enveloped her brother in a dark shadow, and she would have to be his light.
After him accepting her proposal to leave, she watched him mount the horse and she followed. Taking the reigns in her hands she inhaled deeply and sped off, not knowing what to say. For once, Ma Yunlu was afraid of Chao, that one word would set him off in an angry tirade once more, but she couldn't blame him. Deep down inside, she understood where his anger was coming from, but never had she seen him act upon his anger like this.
"Almost there."
Her voice barely above a whisper. The village was in sight and she couldn't help but speed up. Her brother was injured and she wanted to tend to them first, before attempting to talk to him.
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When they had arrived, she took the horse to a nearby stable. Tossing the young man a few gold coins before jumping down and tying it up. She wanted to ask her brother if he wanted help, but words didn't form and instead she reached her hand up towards him silently. It would soothe her just a bit if he accepted, but in the case he did not, she would have to find another means to connecting with her little brother. It was true he was the stronger one, but as his older sister; she had a very different power over him.
"Not far is a small shrine, I think it is time we offer our respects to the gods through a quick visi."
Her words sounded like an offer, but her tone said that there was no fighting her choice of a place. It was a random place to choose, but she had reasons for her choice. For starters, the monks there would not mind offering her herbs to patch her brother up, and of course the calm aura there would help with talking to Chao.
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