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Post by Wei Guozhi on Jan 13, 2011 20:38:39 GMT
The Cheng Du Palace stands at the centre of the great state city of Ba Shu, and acts as the great monument for all of the region to see. The governor, ruler or prefect resides within the Palace quarters, and in times of diplomacy - sits at the fore of the great red carpet that stretches to the base of the throne. There he or she will greet and discuss matters of concern to their subordinates, or greet and recieve those on foreign business.
The Palace is heavily guarded.
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Gong
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King of Hanzhong
Posts: 178
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Post by Gong on Jun 6, 2011 21:19:11 GMT
The horizon brought a new fabled dust that allowed the spirits of the past to be viewed from any vantage point, the Heavens could not cover the devastation of the chaos they had created within the realm. Even though the land had somehow came to an armistice, the sand would not be allowed to settle before a blade was thrust into the air against another foe; it was inevitable and one that the three banners could not avoid. They all desired the role of Supreme Ancestor and sore into the Heavens for the scholars to study within the future, their desires made each other's own lives irrelevant in the thought process...but what of those who were inferior, who could not gain the strength to defend themselves against the beckoning turmoil of war? Indeed they would be the ones to suffer the most, the commoners who seeked the day of peace and would always follow as dsciples behind the being they believed could bring forth this ideological dream...
As the dragon rose its head, the features became soft and observed the sun rise from the land's end..it had been a journey most melancholy and one that had far too many excursions for the original desires; never would the ideal been set to destroy the very livelihood of kinsmen. To be embraced by the Liu clan, who nurtured the poverty stricken body and transforming it into the Imperial Uncle...and then, as the Han Empire deteriorated the blade was taken once more but against fellow Liu kinsmen, Liu Zhang. Though a foolish being with juvenile arrogance, the Dragon could not halt the breath it wished to eradtice. Within this time it would be to survive or merely perish through being dromant and seen as territorial fodder. The eyes trailed to the figure beside him, the gentile body of his latest and hopefully final wife, the Lady Wu. A most delicate soul whose heart contains the fire that was now surging throughout the Green banner, the strength she gave was irreplaceable and one that he wished never to fade...though the memory of Lady Mi and Lady Gan still remained fresh, he would never allow such a fate to repeat itself upon this one.. But, there was of course the daliance of the Lady Sun a ferocious woman whose ambition too large for the quaint phsyqiue; a bird that had to be set free, for the true progression of his Kingdom...it was not love..it was convenience...
Rising, the Dragon took a breath and allowed the Lady Wu's slumber to continue, the burden of being proclaimed Queen of Hanzhong would be something of a struggle than she had ever experienced. The Green robes were placed upon his body and the pride shone when the attire was completed with the official hat, it was close to the design of a King but retained a certain modesty. Approaching the window, a deep breath was taken and the fire could be felt from afar..indeed peace was current, its very state was ambiguous. From the front doors that lead into the main private chambers of Liu, the officials flooded into the greeting room that was shut off from the bedroom; in order they stood and one held the sword that had a history longer than the Dragon could wish to remember. "Adjourn here, we shall not disturb our Lady Wu; commence the council within Main Hall and send relay carriages to the residence of General Zhao and Brother Guan..though a small council, it is of certain importance.." Liu Bei's voice could never rid the softness but the authority deep within had increased over the years, ever since the battle of Red Cliff the Dragon was starting to show its deadly claws by the day...
Relay messengers were sent out, these two beings were vital to the heart of the Dragon and their lives paramount to the foundations of the Kingdom they wished to strengthen. With a stride, and sword in hand, Liu made his own way to the Main Hall. Breaths were calm, but the heart could not stop beating swiftly the future was close and the grasp upon securing their roots was approaching. There current state was unstable, peace with Wei was becoming questionable and the Armistice with Wu was a mere fabrication to halt continuous military expenditures; in reality, Wu wished to take full control of the Jing region..and most of it was placed within the hands of Shu..their desires would soon boil over the diplomacy of reason. To this fate Liu Bei was prepared for, no longer was the veil of virtue a constant reminder and through his life the palm finally turned into a fist. For so long the Kingdom of Shu had been known for its dependency on others, being the lost foul to a stronger herd or even a mere group of cowards running from taking any form of action. The time was now, their backs were turned within the Western part of their realm but within the shadows they were sharpening the claws and biding their time.
The throne within Chengdu Palace was quite an elaborate affair, in comparison with the ideals of Liu Bei himself but it was one he had inherited, refusing to change tradition took it into open arms. It had a rest for his sheathed blade, guards patrolled the parimeter who were all informed of the two expected arrivals, there was an influx of officials who took to their seats before the King of Hanzhong. Another breath was taken, slow and relaxed, the eyes closing, containing a concerning fire, and then looked to gaze over those who were present and to those who were absent, or late. A word was not spoken, silence was created by the very presence and protocol of this strange figure; they had seen the gradual emancepation of the Dragon but yet to experience the claws he had apparently grown...all they could do now was await the General and Brother, or anyone wishing an audience, to make their presence known....
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Post by Huang Zhong on Jun 6, 2011 22:16:31 GMT
Zhi Da was riding on his horse heading for the palace of Chengdu. He was looking to take service with the great virtuos Liu Bei. He thought maybe he was a leader worth serving.
Zhi rode up to the gates and hopped off his horse.
I wish to speak with Liu Bei, I wish to serve him as a officer
He said to the guards. One of the guards leaves and goes in to see if Liu Bei wishes to speak with him.
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Gong
Full Member
King of Hanzhong
Posts: 178
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Post by Gong on Jun 6, 2011 22:35:36 GMT
The waiting would have been endless, the council would not have begun until all parties present and as the many officials became concerned that they would have to remain within the hall in silence an official of the exterior hustled in. Some sighed in relief, allowing the interruption to hide their fidgets in order to halt their limbs turning to slumber. Liu smiled at the news of a budding new recruit at the gates of the Palace, it was quite the sign and contently gestured for the minor official to have him enter. It would be a test of mettle, indeed a warrior could face a line of enemy but could they manage to keep a sweat when faced with a room full of acid tongue politicians...
Swiftly the guest was ushered from the Main gate of the palace into the courtyards where the security began to become concentrated..it was a harbour for inevitable attacks within the shadow, so the Dragon raised the alarm to make sure no mistakes were made. He was lead into the hall that was decorated with green drapes and scriptures of old, the theme of the Dragon was rife and its influence new to the Palace of Chengdu.. Within the Main Hall was quitea daunting sight, all eyes were now placed upon him and he could not escape a single place of judgement. However, infront was the welcoming smile of the being he wished to see, it was swift and effecient thus his desires met; before him was sat Liu bei, King of Hanzhong...
"A youthful warrior has been brought to me via most promising wind, please be seated among this council and place fear into the earth." Liu did not move, though advancing in years he was still quite the handsome man and every movement of his was done with a masculine elegance..quite a paradox, but majestic nonetheless.. The minor official that anounced him rushed to the fore and presented the guest with a seat cushion and had him take a seat as honoured guest, directly infront of the seated officials. "Pray tell, young warrior, educate me on your origins and bless me with your name.." Though many men of power may not truly care of the history of each subbordinate, it was the King of Hanzhong whose genuine interest was strong. Another gesture was made and the minor official moved swiftly, his feet not making a sound upon the wooden floors, to bring the guest a small table that had a cup and small teapot freshly boiled. It was true what people said, that the King of Hanzhong was a master of the people and one whose hospitality never lacked...
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Blainey Poo
New Member
Your Personal Meatshield
Posts: 48
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Post by Blainey Poo on Jun 6, 2011 22:42:15 GMT
::A New Dawn:: There were still hours between Zhao Zilong and the sunrise. To say he wasn't up though would have been a lie. The general had risen a few minutes ago and had wasted little time in beginning his morning prayers to his ancestors. Incense was burning before the stones and the, now kneeling, general. Sleep was never something he'd found solice in, much unlike meditation and prayer. There was something about it that forced relaxation and letting go of stress. In a time of peace Zilong believed he would never leave his ancestors shrine, but this was not peace. This was a facade of peace. At any time the veil could be lifted and war reignited. What felt like days of praying was maybe only an hour, but in that hour Zilong was mentally prepared for not only the day, but anything that could come from the other side of that veil of peace. His body was awake and his mind was sharp. Rising to his feet, the general removed the shirt he slept in and began slowly running through his kata. His motions were fluid and percise. It was not some complex showing, it was a simple tutorial. The kata was more for his own sanity than it was to practice. It was a way to remind himself that no matter how pure he wished to be, he was the sword arm of his lord and he could not be dulled or lame. He had to be sharp. He could not show weakness. There could be no room or error. History had to remember him as the righteous spearhead, not the peaceful lamb. Zilong had not meant to stay busy for hours, but when the servent entered Zilong's home he found the general just finishing his kata, sweating beyond reason. For a brief moment the servent marveled at physical pontential infront of him. It was in that moment the servent realized why he had never advanced past running messages, because he would never be the man standing before him. The general on the other hand just smiled and took a few handfuls of water washing his face, chest and shoulders. "You have a message for me?" asked Zilong with a cheerful tone. The messenger nodded quickly before bowing and holding up a scroll. Zilong just took the scroll and patted the servent. "Thank you, sir. You're dismissed."The scroll was a request for his appearance at council with Liu Bei. It had been since before the Han Zhong campaign that he'd seen his lord. A breath of pride filled his chest. Any other gathering of generals would have called for his simple leather armor and such, but not this meeting. With his lord present and most likely having to recount the Campaign of Han Zhong and then the defense of Xin Ye. This called for his best clothing. His formal wear was laid across his bed. After a good bathe, the general donned his armor and left for the council hall. The city of Cheng Du was a beautiful thing to behold. Its streets were alive in the morning sun. Market was being held in the city square, but people would stop still to see Zhao Zilong riding through the streets towards the palace. They would come and greet and thank him. The general was not above any of them, but he had been summoned. So with much haste he returned all the greetings he could and accepted the compliments as much as possible, but it quickly became how fast he could get away. Most of the people understood and started making way. After a few minutes he was dismounted and inside the palace, making his way to the hall. Upon entering he punched a fist into an open palm after falling to one knee. While bowing his head, he spoke. "My lord Liu Bei, it is an honor to be back by your side. What do you wish of me?"
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Post by Huang Zhong on Jun 6, 2011 23:01:13 GMT
I am Zhi Da aged 20 years. I was born in he province of Wu. I graduated Quingnong highschool with highest honors. And have laerned the art of war and strategy. I seved the Wu army for 1 1/2 years and then served my term and came looking for a strong ruler.
Said Zhi Da. Before sipping the tea.
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Gong
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King of Hanzhong
Posts: 178
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Post by Gong on Jun 6, 2011 23:06:15 GMT
No sooner had this new guest arrived, the message was raised to the arrival one of the pillars of the Shu Kingdom..the very General that seemingly defied fatality in order to pursue the ambitions of not only his own, but the people too. Zhao Zilong, a man whose courage could find no match nor would it ever be found again; for there was only one. The notification came to flutter the mind of the King of Hanzhong, it had been some time since he had the opportunity to be in his company..many close to Liu would understand that, his officers were not simple peons of sub-bordination and inferiority; but his friends that drove him forward. As protocol claimed Zilong took to the bow and lowered himself far beyond the liking of the Dragon, yet it was met with a smile. "Ah, as if the Heavens have read my mind. Young guest of ours, today you shall meet a legend that fate has bestowed upon me; each moment is an honour... General Zhao Yun.."
Even though Liu was his elder, he could not help be in awe of Zilong..he commanded people with such ease, the very presence was daunting and wished all to be strengethened..all his prayers would be answered while this man was in control of his troops. For the first time, the King of Hanzhong rose from his throne and descended the small steps to meet Zilong. With a chuckle he himself helped the General from his position to stand as one with him, breaking the barrier that tradition had laid before them. "Many victories this man has brought, forever a foundation of the Green banner that shall always have my admiration." A gentile gesture was made to the minor officials that were placed as servants within the Main Hall and inner chambers, a small dais was brought and placed to the left of the Throne. Within the Audience Hall this would be the position of the Lady Wu, but within the Main Hall, a place for the council, it was for one of the most trusted men within the Kingdom. Usually it would be reserved for Zhang fei, however, all knew that though a man of strength his temper was one to be concerned and at times made his mind lapse in reality and strategem.
Returning to his throne, Liu would watch Zilong take the seat that was placed so close to the throne; for the loyalty he gave, just rewards and trust was deserving. "My General Zhao, too long it has been. I only hope your health is strong, for it is now that the Kingdom of Shu will have its greatest tests." It was mere daliance into small talk, after all, at this moment he could not trust the true intentions of the young warrior who proclaimed to desire recuitment within the Green Banner..but, he would not postpone the council; furthermore, he wished to have the judgement of Zilong.. He came to enjoy the opinions of all within his jurisdiction and create a route combining all parts, from a militant point of view Zilong's judgement would be paramount; after all, this youthful soldier could become a lieutenant within his unit. "A former being of the Kingdom of Wu you say? Most interesting." Liu would not place instant judgement upon this warrior, even though in a state of peace they were rival kingdoms and would no doubt come to war soon.. "Master Zhi, please do not view me rude..what traits did you see within the young Lord Sun that did not attract your blessings, after such a time within his military?.. I can only say thanks to the Heavens for having most favourable characteristics."
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Post by Huang Zhong on Jun 6, 2011 23:59:42 GMT
He did not have the same ambition I do. To save the people. From all that tortures them
Zhi lied for he knew Liu Bei was virtuous and loved th epoeple so he thought possinly this could make him more favored. For the real reason was he over looked his power over and over again.
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Guanqiu Jian
Junior Member
The Rebel Without a Pulse
If you know the enemy and know yourself, your victory will not stand in doubt.
Posts: 54
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Post by Guanqiu Jian on Jun 7, 2011 2:46:00 GMT
Slowing his horse as he neared the city walls, Xian looked out at it's quiet splendor. The city itself was impressive, showing a clear bit of individualism in it's design, but having ended up humble and reserved. Snorting quietly to himself, He couldn't help but liken it to what he'd heard of the lord. Supposedly one of the most moral of the three rulers, It was odd that this Liu Bei attracted such well-known and powerful officers. Regardless, This would be a most...interesting meeting.
Looking back at the men he'd brought with him, He called back for them to set up camp and go into the city in shifts. Once he was certain of the fact that they'd do as He said, Xian kicked his horse forwards, forcing a path threw the crowds as He mde his way towards the Palace. After all, He didn't come all this way just for a couple dumplings, There were things that needed to be done.
Upon reaching the Palace, Xian slipped off his horse, his giant frame seeming to only loose a few inches from his height atop the horse. Carelessly tossing the reins at one of the nearest servants, He headed inside, pushing past guards until He reached the main hall and waving over one of the servants to announce him "Tell your lord that Xian Ye is here to see him, at his convenience, of course." Watching the man scurry off towards who He could only presume to think as Liu Bi, and two others, He hardened himself, reigning in the battle-lust He felt being this sober.
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Gong
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King of Hanzhong
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Post by Gong on Jun 7, 2011 11:10:41 GMT
Listening to his reasoning, the King of Hanzhong took a deep breath and lingered the moment for some time; the judgement was being made. With a glance towards Zilong, Liu was unsure that he truly believed the story told by Zhi, but how could he allow such youth to leave his Kingdom..strength was needed more than ever for the Green Banner and this opportunity would not come twice, or so he believed. "Young warrior, I have experienced much in my life..within your eyes I do not feel the whole-honesty of your words, I plea you not hide your words from me. To progress the truth must only be spoken in these halls." He was of good judgement, but Liu could not pin-point the main reason and simply brushed it to one side..no doubt through the annoyance of the many ministers behind him.
Rising from the throne, the aging figure that seemed not to become frail approached Zhi and instead of having him rise to speak Liu went to his level. There was no cushion brought for him, all knew that it would simply be rejected, and taking the small jug into hand the King of Hanzhong filled the young warrior's cup. "From this day, young warrior, you shall be cherished into a family yet to spread its wings fully.. I wish for you to be part of the process to gain more of a footing. I see you are no fool and have potential yet unseen, but, would you be tainted by taking a blade against the soldiers of Wu you once called brothers?" It was of great concern, something the other Warlords seemed to lack the genuine care for the individual, though it did not weaken Liu it seemed to make his Kingdom stronger. Peronsally he passed the cup of tea into Zhi's hands, seeing that whatever history he had this would be the beginning of a new. "However, for the present you shall not be facing the Red Banner..I shall not be the one to break the Armistic, but it is the Kingdom of Wei that concerns me most." Nodding to the young warrior, Liu made his way back to the throne in which Zhi Da became part of..he was now included within the council and had equal say as any other.. "After the battle of Red Cliff we managed to gain the lands of Hanzhong and Xinye from Lord Cao, it was a major blow to our Blue brethren but one that will give brith to a vendetta to regain that land. Thus, the defence of our borders to Wei must be increased."
The King of Hanzhong left it open to the floor, Zilong, Zhi Da and the ministers present were all given a chance to air their opinions on the way Shu must deal with this soon budding threat from the North..soon their eyes will be placed once again to take the lands they lost and on that day, Liu wished not only to defend but push them back further and further into a corner. For the moment, peace with Wu was far too beneficial to keep. But, before anyone could take the fore another minor official hustled into the Main Hall to announce another warrior, of considerable size, to seek an audience with him. "My my, such Heavens blessing to gain two within one day..do not waste time and please bring him into the council." As before, the official rushed to escort Xian Ye through the heavily patrolled courtyards and highly decorated hallways to reach the Main Hall, to which council would be in procession. Zhi Da had managed to face the many tongues of Officials with the strength of a Mountain, but would this Xian Ye be able to handle as well?.. As the second honoured guest, a cusion was brought swiftly with a small table that was placed a cup and small jug of tea. Upon the throne, the King of Hanzhong was impressed by his size and it made him reminicse upon the first sighting he had with Zhang Fei. "Master Xian, the Heavens have blessed me with such a visit.. I only hope that the reasons behind such a desire to see me are benevolent.."
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Blainey Poo
New Member
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Post by Blainey Poo on Jun 7, 2011 15:13:20 GMT
Zhao Zilong had been silent since arriving. It was one thing to have his lord embrace him like family, but it was another to be put upon the dias so effortlessly. It was a moment of great pride and confusion. He was just a general, a warrior, the sword arm, not the voice. But, if this was the way his lord wanted him to be, then so be it. Servents came offering him drinks of wine and bits of bread, but polite shakes of the head and waves of the hand repelled them with ease. Zilong was not a man to indulge in wine and felt it disrespectful to eat at council. It was only atop the dais that he realized another man was already speaking to his lord. A wave of disgust with his own stupidity washed over him. How blatantly rude he had just been, but he was silent.
His lord and the man spoke of employment, of loyalty, a subject not far from Zilong's own heart. An Ex-Wu soldier comes to give his life for the green? It was no secret the two were once allied. the whole of China had seen what they could accomplish together. That alliance was in tatters though. An armistice stood in its place. A piece of fabric that made up the veil of peace. The general remained silent though. His duty was to his lord, not to gauge the mind of other men and warlords. So still the silence remained, until finally the moment had arisen for him to speak. A few side glances from his lord had caught his attention, along with a few officials looking at him, but when the speaking of Red Cliffs came to pass the general stirred a bit in his seat. It was a battle better left forgotten in his mind. Men were burned alive or were skewered and left like pig on a spicket. It was a dark memory, but it had been a victory. A low sigh left his lips as he sat upright in the dais and held his hands together.
"My lord, I'm at your command. You need only tell me which border to defend and I will leave tonight for it." stated Zilong matter-of-factly from atop the dais. Once done speaking, another man entered into the council halls. All these new faces and not a single general that already wore the green. There was not even a sworn brother to be seen in the council chambers. If they weren't then surely they were busy. With a nod to his own thought the general began sizing up the two men in the council hall. There was never a time when safety of his lord wasn't on his mind.
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Post by Guan Yu on Jun 7, 2011 16:05:37 GMT
Lord Guan was late, ever since the loss of Jing he had been on edge, he had never forgiven Wu for the treachery - working alongside the fiend Cao Cao and attempting to slay himself and his sons. It also hung on his own track record, Lord Guan Yu succumbed to a few pieces of land due to the efforts of a few minor youth officers. He hung his head low, though his lord, his brother, his Emperor was forgiving - he counted his days. They were numbered, he feared it.
He wasn't going out without a blast though, he would be sure to avenge the treachery of Jing, and restore his glorious name before faithfully serving his oath and dying alongside his brothers.
"O, long have myself and my brother been seperated."
Guan Yu wept a little, though a man of brute strength and a fortified legend - his emotions and friendship to his brothers was unmatched. Several winters had passed since Guan had seen Xuande, under the authority of Jing; there had been little time to spare for outing, he rarely went personally but kept in touch through constant messengers.
The God of War wiped his tears, reunited with his lord once again, only to cope with the shame of his failure, to his lord, his kingdom and more importantly himself. Every single day of the armistice only furthered Guan's anger further, of how he had been rudely forced from his provinces not alone, but combined by the forces of Wei and Wu.
The large, red skinned man stepped out of the carriage, touching down softly upon the floor with his wooden sandals.
"Alas, we shall be reunited, I should not weep for my loss, but rather for my victory - that I live, and I live to fufill my oath."
Guan Yu spoke into the winds, reminding himself - that not everything was terrible about the loss of Jing. With a gently brush, the giant walked politely, clasping his hands to the guards at the door, who willingly allowed him entrance and guided him to sector of audience.
"Lord Guan has arrived!"
A young minister bellowed, before presenting the man to the small council, several members. A few new faces, but many faces that Guan Yu had come to cherish over the years. Now in his fifties, his beard was the longest it had ever been, tended to with the upmost of care.
And within a single movement, the veteran fell to his knees, in the middle of the audience clasping his hands with the upmost of respect towards his lord. Both in happiness and sadness, he was gracious to see him well. Everything they had been through, everything they had accomplished... His lord's dream. Yet more tears shed from the slowly aging man's face, clutching his hands up, whilst keeping his head down in shame.
"My excellency, I come to you in failure, if you wish to apply martial law, then so be it. I have failed our Kingdom and I accept my punishment in full."
Guan Yu announced, raising his head up. His tears were not of cowardice, but rather shame, shame that if this was to be his fate, then he would die a broken man. Within this split second, he prayed that the kindness and virtue of his lord; would compensate his soul for a few more years, just so that Guan Yu could deal the jurisdiction to the criminals of Wei and of Wu.
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Post by Zhuge Liang on Jun 7, 2011 18:59:38 GMT
Zhuge Liang was resting deep within the recessions of his mind when a knock came at his door. "Come in." Zhuge Liang uttered annoyingly. The amount of time he had to think each day decreased as Xuande became increasingly distressed. But what was there to be stressed about? Wu had been soundly beaten, Wei had been soundly beaten. Surely either country would want revenge, and Shu would have to play their cards right to avoid a war.
Unfortunately for them, life never dealt a winning hand.
Not even for the 'Sleeping Dragon', as Zhuge Liang was called. Although that had turned more into a running joke. Guards and other attendants around the palace had poked fun at the amount of time the 'Sleeping Dragon' did in fact spend asleep or in one his meditative naps. What goes around comes around however, and Zhuge Liang had whoever was reported to him jesting at his name fired, and their family thrown out onto the streets. Karma was a bitch, and now only the brave would ever make a jest out of Zhuge Liang.
Such is life, Zhuge Liang thought as his door slid open. A pretty maid-servant nervously took one step inside Zhuge Liang's room and announced: "Lord Xuande requests your attendance, Master Kongming." Zhuge Liang examined the girl in front of him, she was probably only nineteen, hired for her large bosom and attractive looks. It took very little to keep the men in good spirits around here; the sight of a young flower like her would do it.
"Of course," Zhuge Liang started as he rose from his feather mattress, "Then I shall make great haste to the meeting." He approached the girl, and noticed that her knees were already wobbling. Her eyes averted his glare. Now he had remembered her, he had taken her into his bed three nights ago; she had been scared and unwilling at first but he was gentle. Huang Yueying would not have approved of his actions, but she away, and he was free of her knowing eyes for a while. "Now now," He said again, stroking her cheek with his hand, "Child, what is the matter?"
"Lord Kongming," The girl started, and rose her eyes to his, "I think I am in love with you..."
Zhuge Liang chuckled, "How silly, attend to your duties." He left the maid in his room, damp between the legs and heartbroken. His power to manipulate her emboldened him but she was a mere servant with no experience.
The people I want to manipulate are in this room, Zhuge Liang said to himself, entering the throne room. He bowed to Liu Bei respectfully, "Lord Xuande, I apologize for my tardiness." He was forced to say this quietly though as Guan Yu was making a spectacle of himself. The God of War thought he had done a mediocre job apparently, Zhuge Liang was quite impressed with his actions in Jing. He moved to sooth the tears and sobs.
"Master Guan Yu, we couldn't have asked for a better outcome. We have thwarted the wily Lu Meng's plans. He had thought he would have total victory, yet due to the efforts of yourself," Zhuge Liang gestured to the other legend in the room Zhao Yun, "and Master Zhao Yun, Lu Meng was turned away."
Zhuge Liang stepped back, out of the way, "Of course, your punishment, if any, is decided upon by your Brother and Master Liu Bei."
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Guanqiu Jian
Junior Member
The Rebel Without a Pulse
If you know the enemy and know yourself, your victory will not stand in doubt.
Posts: 54
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Post by Guanqiu Jian on Jun 8, 2011 3:47:26 GMT
Slightly startled by being called upon so soon, Xian rested his hand on the hilt of his blade as He strode forward. For a moment, His eyes rested on the figure behind Liu Bei, silent and clearly a much larger immediate threat if things should go sour. As soon as He came a respectable distance from Liu Bei, He dropped to a knee for a second to show his respect, before standing in front of him. This would decide if He'd get the chance to fight sooner or later. An inmportant moment, indeed.
Collecting himself for a moment, He considered his words carefully. Too much history would make anyone clearly distrustful, but too little and they'd be fools not to question further. After a moment, He spoke "Lord Liu Bei, I've not been in China long but I have scraped together a small group of men, all at least passably trained. I offer you my services, and theirs. All I ask in return, is the chance to fight." That was the best He could do for an introduction at least.
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Gong
Full Member
King of Hanzhong
Posts: 178
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Post by Gong on Jun 8, 2011 9:24:10 GMT
It seemed this council was forming before his eyes, the arrivals of brother Guan and the strategist Kongming were welcomed as it meant the main foundation of staff within the Kingdom of Shu were finally here. However, what the King of Hanzhong did not expect was the outburst of disgrace from his sword brother, believing he had brought failure to the Green banner. Before Liu could act upon such a confession Zhuge took the fore and placed his words before the council commending him, what he spoke was true and when silence came to the Main Hall he descended the throne and helped his brother to his feet. The compassionate eyes complemented the pride upon his expression, with his smile the voice softened combined with a short shaking of the head. "Do not speak so harshly brother, with your efforts we retained near half of Jing and the security of your life.." The fact he had survived such an ordeal was important to Liu, also it would send shock waves to both Kingdoms that they should not have underestimated the Green Banner in the first place..and now they knew the true intentions and thoughts of Wei and Wu, they would be ready to present them with strength they never thought Shu could muster.
Turning his attention to Xian Ye, the warrior beast confessed his desire to serve the Green banner and with a mere desire to be fully used upon the battlefield; he had no worries of this, for the upcoming battles would be the major test of survival and dominance for the Kingdom. With Zilong's words, the King of Hanzhong gave a swift nod to divert this council into a direction that could be concluded and all knew what was happening. A short breath and Liu returned to his throne, but he did not sit upon it. Turning upon his heel he addressed the council, the eyes burning with a lust to show the realm that the Kingdom of Shu, though viewed as weak, was now stronger than ever..the heart began to beat quickly and the voice took an authoratarian tone with the strength accustomed to a King. "Today the past shall be forgotten, for we have far more important issues to attend to; indeed a state of peace is about us but it will not last long. Thus we must act swifter than our rival brethrens." Liu's eyes then came upon Xian Ye, who he yet to address after he made his small introduction and the interests of his presence. "You must forgive me for not placing a banquet in the celebration of your recruitment to Shu, it shall come one day..however, you shall be placed into order now so that we do not give our enemies a single chance to gain the upper-hand."
Eyes trailed to Zilong upon the dais, he seemed to move quite a lot perhaps he was not used to such things..after all he was more of a warrior than one to luxury on an elaborate seat.. "General Zhao, with you I trust the defence within Hanzhong. It is an important city that no doubt will be the first to come under threat by Lord Cao, he desires that the lose of such a city to us to be over-shadowed by a victory; we shall give him the fight he desires when he makes his move..but the outcome shall shine Green, for we shall be more than prepared. Make your way there with haste and take the regalia of official, it shall be your stronghold but you shall not be alone; for my brother-in-law Wu Yi is already stationed there, so he can help you to establish the defences. Soon enough you will be joined by a subbordinate to aid you." The gesture was made to the scribe within the corner, he would produce the correct seals and signs of office for Hanzhong, with this Liu bowed to him as a fellow comrade..something he hadn't doen since his time within the voluntary camp against the three Zhang brother's rebellion. "Though hanzhong is incredibly important to defend, we cannot forget our other borders. Zhuge, take with you our newest recruit Xian Ye to the city of Xinye. From this position we can either make an offensive against Wei or manage a defence against the Kingdom of Wu; incase they desire to turn their words upon us once again."
Taking a breath, the eyes came upon his brother Guan..he seemed quite hurt against what had happened, but all Liu could do was pray that he heeds his words of leaving it within the past..today was an ew era of strength for Shu and it would prove to the realm their significance. "Brother Guan, I wish for you to take the young warrior Zhi Da to Xiangyang. It is a rich city for trade and one that would no doubt be the first attacked by the Kingdom of Wu, if they decide to dare with threats against us. It shall be the stronghold against the Red Banner, bulster the defences and strengthen the interior so we shall be prepared for anything." Orders were flying, the King of Hanzhong did feel some sympathy for the scribe who had to form all documents and regalia for each order..giving those prescribed the seals of power over the forementioned city, but this would test all of them.
His hand was raised to his bear, gently stroking the issue of Wu was quite unstable still and one that could be the making or destruction of their defences. With a sigh, slightly annoyed that the youthful Sun Quan could not seemingly commit to one thing or another, the King of Hanzhong looked to his council. "I shall remain in Chengdu, but I shall personally travel with an entourage of guards to the Kingdom of Wu. The Armistice we have in place must be strengthened, I only hope that this time Lord Sun can prove to be an ally, not merely a childish pretender." Looking to each person within the Hall, they were all now given orders, of those who needed them..though two of which were new, it would test their mettle if they could truly handle the actions of war. Shu were at a distinct weaker position so the work they had to do must not only best, but surpass, others. "If no one has anything more to discuss, I shall not delay you upon your new orders. Act with haste, but leave nothing to allow our enemies a chance to best us; I trust you all, new and old to the Kingdom of Shu. Solidified we can defeat those who desire our lands, show to all that the Green banner is not as feeble as they wish to believe." Another bow was made to the entire council, the orders set and the words finished..all they had to do now was to take their leave to the cities needed and build the strength of Shu upon the borders which would be hit first. However, the King of Hanzhong would be open to anyone who wished to discuss anything further, or even make a rebuttle upon any orders made...
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