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Post by Sam on Jun 6, 2011 23:32:36 GMT
The grand palace of the remnants of the Han Dynasty of recent years, here dwells the reigning Emperor, Xiandi, though not publically. The grand palace occupying the central most part of the city of Xuchang is a golden hall that can be seen from the horizon outside of the city.
The home of the Imperial Court and the current residence of Cao Cao, King of Wei.
When approaching the Palace, visitors are greeted with a castle within that of Xuchang's city walls, guarded day and night by the Imperial army, appointed by Cao Cao himself, his top troops, no one gets in or out without additance from his most loyal troop entrusted with the 'safety' of the Emperor and the defence of the three gates into the palace.
Upon passing the gates, there is a wide courtyard with a pathway flanked by luxurous ponds filled with fish that span the entire country, which leads to the hundreds of steps leading into the grand court hall, secluded behind which is the Emperor's personal quarters, which stands guarded by armed troops of Wei.
The hall of the Imperial Court is long hall flanked by wooden pillars inlaid with gold and draped with red silk. At the far end of the hall is the hosting seat upon the dais, the golden throne of the Emperor. To the left of Emperor is the seat of the King of Wei, also gold and seemingly more grand than that of the main seat.
On both the left and right are two rows of fifteen seats enough to host a meeting of sixty officials. On the other side of the main pillars, which stand behind the rows of seats on both sides, stand twenty armed Imperial Guard on either flank.
Visitors may come here to meet the King of Wei.
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Post by Sam on Jun 7, 2011 16:53:54 GMT
Just as things were looking up once more for Wei, they quickly took a turn for the worse again. The King of Wei had successfully pushed Sun Quan into attacking the King of Hanzhong but at what price? The tension had broke into all-out conflict in Jing and Guan Yu struck out for the capital, and despite Wu's suprise attack felled Xiangyang and pushed back the Wu force, counter-attacking Cao Ren and Xu Huang in the process leaving the Wei holdings in Jing broken.
Cao stormed into the palace, his manner had refreshed as gradually he had accepted the fate of his beloved general Xiahou Yuan. He wasn't happy about the failure of his plans. They had backfired big time leaving him in a precarious position.
Officials assembled in the grand hall, as the King strode in glancing around at the assembly as he headed for his seat, "Where is Cao Ren and Sima Yi?"
"General Cao has been summoned but reported to be on his way from Jing. Master Sima has not yet returned from the South."
"Hmph, let's hope they don't keep me waiting for long. What news from the south?"
"Liu Bei and Sun Quan have settled their open dispute and seem to have accepted that each should hold half of Jing, for now they have ceased hosilities."
Cao strode up and turned upon the dai and dropped casually onto his throne. The Emperor had not been summoned to court, the main throne was noticeably vacant for those not loyal to Wei, he was still in his quarters.
"No good at all. I don't want them fixing anything. They were supposed to devour each other." Then smacking his hand against the arm of his throne he shouted.
"Instead it is me who suffered! Nothing! Nothing have I gained from this conflict."
"Guan Yu...Guan Yu...ugh! How worthless Sun Quan is! Theyhad him right for the taking and let him give them the slip, our national security is at risk as long as Liu Bei and Sun Quan can settle these disputes."
Vengeance was called for, Wei was losing its grip, Cao Cao had to once again reaffirm their superiority. He waited for more news, and council from those directly involved in the Jing plans, Cao Ren and Sima Yi.
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Post by Sima Yi on Jun 7, 2011 18:08:37 GMT
It had all gone as they had planned. Guan Yu struck northern Jing with an army fit to conquer, and Cao Ren held a strong defense. As Sima Yi conspired with Wu to regain the land they were promised by right, Lu Meng led an army to Guan Yu’s rear. The Shu army was drowned by a flood, and Lu Meng’s came on them, but Guan Yu somehow escaped the pincer with his life.
Sima Yi’s promise to his lord to slay the God of War was a lie. Guan Yu lived. Worse yet, Liu Bei and Sun Quan settled their dispute over Jing without bloodshed, and their alliance was a strong as it ever had been, and now their eyes could look north.
As Sima Yi entered the palace, he could hear his lord screaming at the officials that were reporting to him. Zhongda understood, they had put a great plan together but the results were nothing compared to what they could have been. Cao Cao gained nothing, but at least he lost nothing as well.
“Lord Cao Cao, I am here.” Sima Yi said, “I apologize for failing on my oath to kill General Guan Yu. It is only the God of War that could have divine protection from storms and armies alike that demolish forward armies but leave their commanders untouched.”
"Guan Yu...Guan Yu...ugh! How worthless Sun Quan is!” Cao Cao continued to coller his frustrations across the room, “They had him right for the taking and let him give them the slip, our national security is at risk as long as Liu Bei and Sun Quan can settle these disputes.”
“Sun Quan is useless indeed,” Sima Yi replied, “That is why we must not fear him so long as the mighty Zhang Liao stands between the Southlands and the Central Plains.”
Sima Yi took a seat next to his lord.
“The conflict in Jing harbored no results for my lord, so we must forget it. We cannot strike the allies at the center of their combined forces. We must divide them by forcing their men at Han Zhong and Lu Jiang. We cannot allow them to join together now that Liu Bei has become so powerful.”
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Post by Sam on Jun 7, 2011 18:47:36 GMT
Cao Cao rose to his feet and walked over as Sima Yi entered the hall and laughed, he strode over taking his hand and leading him forward onto the dais.
As he and Sima Yi reached the top step he let go of his hand and going to the Emperor's seat, brushed off the dust with his large sleeve, then taking a step back, offered the seat.
"Zhongda, please be seated." Offering the seat was not an empty gesture, he knew Sima Yi was an ambitious individual, not so different from himself, that was why he prized him so highly.
Cao smiled as he returned to his own throne, while a lot more grand and decorated than the Emperor's, it wasn't any less important.
Cao finally spoke, "You did not fail any oath Zhongda, you fulfilled your orders. It is Sun Quan and Lu Meng who failed you." He chuckled at the last remark, Sun Quan and Lu Meng amused him. He continued in the same manner.
"I shouldn't have expected Sun Quan to have helped as much as I did. Afterall it was he who failed at Hefei when he outnumbered us more than ten-to-one. Amusing really, that I even thought he and his minions could even succeed in attacking Jing, nevermind reaching Guan Yu enough to miss their chance."
Cao laughed again as he waved to the assembled officials who hadn't had a chance to even sit down themselves yet, "Leave us. Leave a notice for Ren to come here as soon as he is able." The officials respectfully withdrew with some muttering among themselves.
Now that they were alone bar a couple of serving ladies that swiftly withdrew after laying out two hot tea trays on either man's table for self-service.
Cao spoke as he lifted his small tea pot, and filled his goblet. "I did not speak in jest Zhongda, well done." He raised the cup and offered a toast.
"I assume you remember the last time we spoke? I thank you for that encouragement, I was not concerned with the empire at that time. But now the effects of the grief have passed, while I still miss my cousin I have accepted it for what it is."
"I'm side-tracking." Cao chuckled, as he poured himself another goblet of tea.
"You spoke of a reposition to Chang'an. I wish to grant that request now, if you are still willing to take up command of the western front?"
Cao raised his cup to his lips but refrained from drinking as he looked directly into Sima Yi's eyes and carefully asked, "What do you hope to accomplish by taking command of our western forces?" The tone in Cao's voice morphed with a subtle intrigue on the word 'our'. Cao looked forward to the response.
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Post by Sima Yi on Jun 7, 2011 19:34:19 GMT
Sima Yi sat beside Cao Cao and spoke while he was summoned. Cao Cao listened intently. He was a great leader, partially due to the fact that he cherished the council of his advisors as much as he did.
Sima Yi shared a laugh with Cao Cao as his lord mocked Sun Quan. Truly, between Liu Bei and the ruler of Eastern Wu, it was tough to distinguish which was hated more by the Hero of Chaos. Sima Yi smiled as he saw his fellow officials forced to leave while he shared a private audience with the Prime Minister. He was on the inside of all matters, just as he dreamed of years ago, and those who served alongside him were beginning to show signs of jealousy.
Hot tea was served and they soon found themselves allow in hallow halls. Cao Cao offered a toast.
“Our enemies may have survived our ploy,” Sima Yi said, “But never shall their lips be blessed with tea so rich.”
Sima Yi joked. Hopefully Cao Cao would remain loose so long as SIma Yi mocked their enemies for seeing through their plans but drinking less tasty tea.
Cao Cao resumed to speak of business. He reminded Sima Yi of the last time they spoke, when Sima Yi requested to take up the defense of the western empire, primarily the western capital of Chang’an.
“I wish to grant that request now,” Mengde said, “If you are still willing to take up command of the western front?”
Sima Yi smiled. Within his soul burned a passion he’d never felt before. This was the moment he’d been waiting for. Each word that fell on deaf ears, each strategy unused, all had been leading to this. To defend the greatest city in Cao Cao’s rule from his greatest enemy was an unheralded honor.
“Jing is secure, and our enemies will look to our flanks. Sun Quan will look to breach Hefei again, and Liu Bei will look to Chang’an. Zhang Lu looked to the western capital but failed, and that ended in his death. Ma Chao was able to secure it and that led to a prolonged war with a fool, all because he gained the city and was able to move freely to Tong Gate. Chang’an must not fall into Liu Bei’s hands. From there he can take Liang and invade the north. It is a frightful thought…”
"What do you hope to accomplish by taking command of our western forces?"
Cao Cao asked him, his gaze refusing to leave Sima Yi. He was deeply engaged in this conversation.
“I will cut off any hope Liu Bei has in a northern campaign. They have neither the resources nor the personnel to succeed, but only a prayer to take the western capital. He will fail, and I will re-take Han Zhong and launch invasions into Yizhou from there. They will fear my name, for even should I die, my sons shall take up these orders.”
Sima Yi spoke swiftly, assuredly, and when he felt he was done, he cocked his brow and nodded to Cao Cao, raising his cup to his lips and taking in a gulp.
“My lord prefers his tea hot. I am afraid I do not,” Sima Yi said. He acted as he thought nothing of the army against him, concerning himself more with the tea he was drinking.
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Post by Sam on Jun 7, 2011 20:20:03 GMT
Cao laughed softly taking his gaze away from Sima Yi, as he sipped another cup of the tea, "I couldn't have my tea any other way. Warm, it magnifies the fragrance and helps the soft liquid ease both mind and body. Massaging your vitals into peace, even in a time of conflict as ours."
"Zhongda, you are very much like myself. It is why I stove so hard to have you enter my employ."
"Controlled. Working only within my personal service. It's been more than your talents I have noticed, you have great gifts, that will only see your career enflare to new heights as your experience broadens." Cao took a moment to pause and then looked at Sima Yi again.
"That is what I'm afraid of. Our similarities."
"Today you are restricted to my personal service, I have done that for a reason. But my years are many, I will not be King forever, the mantle of leadership is forever passed. I am no fool like Qin Shi Huangdi I do not crave immortality, I can accept that I will not see the country restored to peace as I had hoped, oh so many years ago when I marched south to complete my goal."
The King was drawing out his point allowing Sima Yi to appreciate his position. "I trust that with this post, you will not let those ambitions of those go to your head Zhongda, I look to you for support, not a problem."
"You have the eyes of a wolf. I appreciate your talents and I would have you reach your potential. The restrictions are lifted, you are now incharge of all things regarding the western defences. I hope to trust your loyalties, not forever question them."
Cao took a sip of tea and averted his eyes from Sima Yi again, and continued more relaxed, "Zhongda. My clan, everything I have built in my years, will rest in your hands. If our similarities prove true, you will be the most important man in the empire within twenty years time, surpassing the likes of Zhou Yu and Zhuge Liang. I hope when that time comes you will remember who's trust got you in a position to be so powerful."
Cao finished of the last drop in his cup and set it down on the table. "You will be me one day. The leading figure in the court, yet I hope that you will continue to support my line and enjoy their favour, and that your sons, and grandsons will also enjoy their favour."
Cao laxed in his posture, as if growing weak all over.
But he straightened himself up and poured himself another cup of tea. "I have time to see some of those talents of yours on a more grand scale yet."
"The one true regret I will have with you in the west, is that I will miss your company Zhongda."
Cao smiled as he finally stopped speaking, and waited for Sima Yi to.
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Ai Rui The Guardian Wolf
Full Member
"Virtues, might, nor power win wars; it is the people who decide the ultimate outcome."
Posts: 126
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Post by Ai Rui The Guardian Wolf on Jun 8, 2011 3:06:56 GMT
Ai Rui had set out for Xu Chang the moment he had heard the news. Xiahou Yuan was dead. He'd only just arrived in the town and had barely managed to collect himself. His hair was a mess and his headband missing, but he didn't care. His appearance meant nothing today, he was here for a reason. The wolf thought back to the last time he had spoken with his old friend.
"Look at you," Miaocai scolded. You hide away from this war and pretend it doesn't exist. You fight bandits and capture thieves and pretend that those are the troubles of Luo Yang. There is a war going on and your father prepared you well for it. Here you are wasting your talents."
"War is not my business Uncle," he'd responded. "I am a protector, not a warrior. This war is no part of me, I belong to Luo Yang and Luo Yang alone."
"And you believe my cousin doesn't protect his lands? The best war for you to protect Luo Yang is to aid us in unifying the land. Once peace reigns, you can defend Luo Yang from bandits and thieves and whatever other menial problems arise. We need your help though Baohulang; you could prevent many casualties.
"You honor and flatter me Uncle, but it will get you nowhere. I cannot leave my father's home to ride to war; I am sorry.
"I understand, Miaocai said as he opened the door. Turning back from the doorway, he spoke again. "I only hope that by the time you realize the necessity of the matter that you do not regret your hesitation."
The Guardian Wolf had believed Xiahou Yuan foolish for what he said that day. Now the man had been swallowed by the chaos. "That pompous Liu Bei was behind it. I shall see to it that he pays!"
Ai Rui approached the palace and noticed many officials exiting. It didn't matter though, not to him. He approached the guards and steadied his voice. "I must speak to Lord Cao Cao immediately. It concerns the death of General Xiahou Yuan."
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Post by Sima Yi on Jun 8, 2011 5:34:26 GMT
Sima Yi blushed as Cao Cao showered him with praise. Had Sima Yi known the respect he would get from the Hero of Chaos, he would not have strove so hard to avoid joining his campaign for China. He was a man of unrivaled power and charisma, and Sima Yi could completely understand why half of China flew Wei banners from their keeps.
Sima Yi strove for power. He strove for the Sima Clan to be in the position that Cao Cao was setting his clan. He knew that one day, surely, he’d be making a play for power within the courts, long after the Han would be dismantled, but also long after Cao Cao was dead. He would not steal power from a friend.
“My lord honors me,” Sima Yi said, “I am but a strawer of sandals compared to his excellence.”
Zhongda brought the cup of tea to his lips and finished his serving.
“But my lord’s greatest quality is his judgment of those that serve him. If you see me worthy, I will strive to do everything I can to serve you now and after you’ve gifted us with your life.”
Sima Yi and Cao Cao shared another cup of tea before they grew tired of the taste, and the two agreed that wine would wash the bitterness of tea from their mouths. They drank until they both were feeling the effects.
"The one true regret I will have with you in the west,” Cao Cao said, “Is that I will miss your company Zhongda."
“And I yours, Lord Mengde.”
Sima Yi smiled and lifted his cup to toast. The two were interrupted by a guard coming in to inform them that a guest wished to discuss matters involving the death of Xiahou Yuan, and immediately the light air and laughs disappeared. Sima Yi placed his drink aside, and addressed Cao Cao, who’s eyes showed sadness in the remembrance of his loved cousin.
“Best not to keep a guest waiting. We’ve accomplished what we wished with this meeting, perhaps we should resume the court?”
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Post by Sam on Jun 8, 2011 15:56:43 GMT
Cao nodded to Sima Yi as he set down the cup of wine. Shouting to the guards in the hall he ordered the summoning drums be beaten, "Call them all back in." Then Cao quickly asserted afterward, "And, the visitor, see to it that he is unarmed and then see him in. He has some courage to bring Xiahou Yuan up before even extending the courtesy to introduce himself."
Two guards on either flank of the hall advanced and beat the summoning drums as the King finished off his goblet of half absorbed wine. and called out the palace maids, "Bring forth food and drink for the guests, I would say it was a happy occasion but for the reminder of my beloved cousins passing, nonetheless we enjoy ourselves today Zhongda." Cao laughed.
A dozen palace maids soon flowed out from behind the screens masking the rear of the hall bearing side dishes of exotic fruits for snacking, and small pots of heated wine, tray by tray until all the placeholding tables were covered with fruits of many colours and tastes.
As the officials and the guest were led in Cao Cao remained seated as the ministers bowed, waving them up to their feets he said, "Enough, please be seated." Two seats were left vacant at the feet of the dais, for two guests, one of them was for Cao Ren should he return in time for the banquet and the other for the unnamed guests should he not prove so bold as his opening statement.
Cao sat up straight on his throne as he regarded his guest, "You have courage young one to stride into my city so bold - especially bearing the reminder of my cousin's death." The apparent merry making was cut short with his question, one or two officials broke the sudden silence with chomps on pieces of fruit, disturbing the set tension, and enhancing their own.
Cao leant forward, resting his elbows on his thighs, pointing at the man with one of his index fingers, "What is it that you wish to say of my late cousin?"
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Ai Rui The Guardian Wolf
Full Member
"Virtues, might, nor power win wars; it is the people who decide the ultimate outcome."
Posts: 126
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Post by Ai Rui The Guardian Wolf on Jun 8, 2011 19:13:44 GMT
The guard returned to escort Ai Rui into the hall. He handed over the bloody thorns and slightly repaired his appearance. This boldness may not have been common in him, but it was far from out of character. The Guardian Wolf was blunt and honest.
As he was led into the chamber that currently housed the king and his companions, he was nearly overwhelmed. An air of greatness rushed to meet him, setting his mind to a haze. Baohulang bowed low before King Mengde. He would not speak until he had been instructed so. He was uncertain of proper protocol.
"You have courage young one to stride into my city so bold - especially bearing the reminder of my cousin's death." Ai Rui felt a shiver run down his spine as Cao Cao spoke. He hadn't enjoyed using Miaocai in such a way, but it wasn't untrue. He had come here in Miaocai's name.
"What is it that you wish to say of my late cousin?" the king continued. Ai Rui finally looked up to see a finger pointed at him. He gathered himself and steadied his voice before he began to speak.
"Miaocai was a great man," he began. "After my father's murder, Miaocai took me in. I have come here at his behest. He knew it might sound odd stating things this way, but it was true.
Ai Rui nearly lost his proper attitude and nearly referred to Xiahou Yuan as Uncle. "Before he rode to his final battle, Miaocai came and spoke with me. He begged and pleaded that I come and aide in your cause, King of Wei. But I refused. I continued in Luo Yang to pretend that this war left me unaffected. Now I regret my inaction. I have come to honor Miaocai's final request; I am here to aid in your conquest."
Ai Rui took a deep breath as he fell to one knee before the men in the room. "I am Ai Rui, son of Ai Jin; the Guardian Dragon of Luo Yang. I offer my abilities as a strategist and a warrior to your cause Lord Cao Cao. That is what Miaocai asked of me, and I shall honor him by doing just that."
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Post by Sima Yi on Jun 8, 2011 20:02:16 GMT
The court had resumed, and as the doors opened it took mere seconds for the halls to be filled, officials rushing here and there to fulfill their minor duties of the day. Cao Cao and Sima Yi’s private discussion of the future of Wei had served as an inconvenience to the minor officials, but there was nothing they could do but continue to serve. Cao Cao was not the kindest to those who spoke ill against him or served him wrong. After all, it was not that long ago where he nearly had his own cousin beheaded for his defeat against Ma Chao.
Ai Rui came before Cao Cao and gave his message. Sima Yi, while not a direct component of the conversation, listened intently. He saw courage in the young man, and immediately began to include him in future plans. The man could become a vital general in the future of Wei, and Sima Yi aimed to see how far his potential could climb.
“Ai Rui, son of Ai Jin, you say? I am also of Luo Yang. I am Sima Yi, head of the Sima Clan with my brother’s recent death. His name was Sima Lang, and when the tyrant Dong Zhuo pillaged Luo Yang, Sima Lang anticipated it, and under the lead of Ai Jin, my family was able to escape the slaughter. Your father was a capable leader, and a good man. He saved many lives that day. It saddens me to hear he is dead.”
Sima Yi turned to Cao Cao.
“My lord, revenge is usually sparked by sorrow, but it is a valuable tool to serve as the spurs on the horse of ambition. If Xiahou Yuan saw this man fit to fight for my lord Cao Cao, you would be wise to accept his service.”
Sima Yi descended from the throne, preparing his exit to leave for Chang’an.
“If my lord wishes for one final council I may offer, I would suggest you send this man to Luo Yang, where he may continue his service in his homeland, and avenge the death of his dear Xiahou Yuan,” Sima Yi said, bowing before Cao Cao and the guest that spoke to him, “I hope we meet again, Ai Rui.”
Sima Yi said no more, and left the chamber. He called for his personal guard, and had word sent to Chang’an to prepare for his arrival. He’d be at Chang’an soon, and his personal goals were just underway. He promised much to Cao Cao, but his main goal was one he kept to himself. He promised it not to Cao Cao but to his heart: He would conquer Shu.
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Post by Sam on Jun 8, 2011 20:47:14 GMT
Cao Cao remained seated forward but relaxed his hands beneath his long beard. He didn't know how to respond straight away, he tried to recall the name in his conversations with Xiahou Yuan, but no trace in his vast memory could be found, but Sima Yi's quick explanation satisfied him in the truth of it.
"I have not heard your name before Ai Rui, nor your father's I am afraid, perhaps my busy life around the country has prevented me from doing so, but there are years left in which I can hear them."
"I never knew Yuan was one to befriend those of little importance of current times from my knowledge." Cao said being frank, but he followed up with his reasons, not that he needed them.
"Since you were aquainted with my late cousin however, I won't simply turn you away at your lack of reported deeds to me personally and age. I give all who join my cause a chance to win top honours, and with Zhongda's recommendation just now I feel happy to accept your services." Cao went on.
"I have made it my duty since the Battle of Red Cliff to enhance the country's education system in hopes that the next generation will produce talent to constantly keep fellow countrymen and foreigners in awe. I knew at that time that my dream's of unity would not be accomplished in my lifetime, so I must do what I can, and what is best for our country."
Cao pushed himself to his feet and walked over to Ai Rui. Down the steps and forward, outstretching his hand he took hold of Ai Rui's forearm, "Rise, Rui son of Jin. I hope to learn what talents drew Yuan to bid you serve your country."
The King led the young man to one of the forward seats reserved for guests. "Come, now you will enjoy the hospilitality of our empire first-hand." As he released Ai Rui to allow him to sit, he raised his hands into a clap and the serving maids resumed their duty, bringing a pot of wine to Ai Rui's table and setting out fruit trays for him to eat as he pleased.
Cao headed back to the dais and turned on his heel as he reached the uttermost step as he lifted his goblet, "Ministers. Gentlemen, I bid you welcome Ai Rui to Wei." Cao Cao by all means in the company of visitors have said Han in the place of Wei, but in a hall of his trusted subordinates, he needed not to mask it, the Han was finished, in all but name.
The officials stood and bowed with their cups of wine, "Welcome Mister Ai to Wei." Cao laughed as he and the room downed their cups. Then he returned to his seat, falling into it leisurely.
At Sima Yi's personal request the King then and there said, "Rui, I'll make it official when not holding wine between finger and thumb." Smiling he continued, "You may have keep of Luoyang and see that it continues to prosper; and that one day you may have your chance to avenge your friend and my beloved general."
To Sima Yi he said farewell, "I trust you will remember my earlier words Zhongda...May fortune shine on your duty, the west is in your hands." Cao clasped his hands and offered a slight bow as one of his finest ministers departed.
Intruments were soon laid out from the back as palace maidens took up the flute and zither, and began a mellow tune as dishes of the finest fish soup, spiced with rare herbs were brough out and laid upon the tables of all present, accompanied by various vegetable dishes and a pair of chopsticks.
"Dig in men, this is one of my personal favourite dishes." aid Cao as he laughed and downed more wine, speaking of which more pots were brough forth and laid behind the guests ready to refill their respective pots if they ran low.
After eating the better half of his meal, Cao took up a silk handkerchief and dabbed his mouth as he spoke to Ai Rui once more.
"Tell me Rui, what are your ambitions? What do you hope to achieve in the future by serving me?"
The noise of the banquet raged on but Cao and Ai were fairly close, only a few steps seperated them, and they could hear each other well, even over the sounds of the music and joyous banter of the officials.
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Ai Rui The Guardian Wolf
Full Member
"Virtues, might, nor power win wars; it is the people who decide the ultimate outcome."
Posts: 126
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Post by Ai Rui The Guardian Wolf on Jun 9, 2011 2:46:22 GMT
Ai Rui looked up as Sima Yi mentioned his father. "Yes, that was my father. I fear he did not survive the battle and my brothers followed right after him. Miaocai lived loyally to his friendship with my father and tended to myself and my sister. She has disappeared and I alone can carry on my father's legacy."
As Zhongda bid Baohulang farewell, he bowed to the man. "I would look forward to such a meeting," he responded.
The next thing he knew, Cao Cao was personally guiding him to a seat near the King's throne. The serving girls placed wine and food on the table near Baohulang and he was truly taken aback. Never had he seen such a fuss over anything. His father celebrated by training and Miaocai was too laid back to fuss over anything. Baohulang was stunned and confused. He had no idea how to react in such an environment.
He attempted to down his wine as had the others, but he'd never imbibed any before and nearly chocked on it. His face turned red and he decided it would be best to abandon such behavior.
Baohulang's head snapped up when Mengde addressed him. He didn't respond immediately; he'd needed to think about his answer more. "I have always desired to continue my father's legacy as the defender of Luo Yang. But Uncle has made me realize I am capable of far more. My name will be known throughout the land. The Han is dead, and I will assist you in creating a new ruling dynasty; one that will never be forgotten."
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Post by Sam on Jun 9, 2011 8:50:01 GMT
The King drained another goblet of wine, as he listened carefully to Ai Rui's reply. When the young man had finished his answer, Cao replied gratefully, "I appeciate the idea behind your words, but I would not see the Han dead." Cao went on to explain, "The Han, I am ever grateful of, the dynasty that both I and my ancestors have received the bounty of. I seek only to supplant the Han that led to its downfall and honour its memory before the fall."
"My loyalties lie with the Han and its former majesty, but the people desire auniversal change to restabilize the country, that is where my true loyalties lie. The Han is beyond repair from its failures of recent reigns and as such I look to bring about the change."
"You speak of a new dynasty, one which I am uncomfortable. As one who has directly received the favour of the Han, I do not feel comfortable with such an act. It is for the next generation to decide upon." Cao of course meant his sons, Ai Rui and those that would keep the kingdom when those of the old guard such as himself had passed.
Cao had long since noted Ai Rui's discomfort of the wine and when he had done responding he took a second unused imperial goblet from upon his table and filled it with some of the tea he and Sima Yi had been sharing earlier, which was still warm.
Refilling the wine in his own goblet, Cao took the two cups in his hands and raised to his feet, and walked down the dais to Ai Rui. Handing him the cup of tea Cao spoke, "Come, walk with me Rui." He headed towards the mouth of the hall, where the orange ball of the sun was turning the landcape red in sunset.
The officials were deep in the merrymaking and between draining wine, snacking and uproarous banter they did not notice the King passing down the hall.
When they were outside in the breeze, Cao continued closing his eyes relaxingly and receiving the gentle breeze of the coming night on his face. "Rui. Many a year is ahead of you, most of which I'm afraid I won't see. I will only see the initial sparks of your greatness, but when fully ignited I will be not be around."
"It's one of the bitternesses of life. But somethings are not for my eyes to see." Cao raised his cup and took in a mouthful of wine ending his statement.
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Ai Rui The Guardian Wolf
Full Member
"Virtues, might, nor power win wars; it is the people who decide the ultimate outcome."
Posts: 126
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Post by Ai Rui The Guardian Wolf on Jun 10, 2011 1:27:30 GMT
Ai Rui listened intently to what his new lord said. "I understand your sentiment and agree that the Han was a great dynasty. The people have lost faith in it though. We are primed to restore the land to the glory it once held within the Han, but the people have chosen for the Han to fall. It is shameful really; the Han led the land well. Zhang Jiao and Dong Zhuo brought about greater damage than anyone could have predicted. Their actions have brought this around, and we must finish the circle."
Baohulang bowed graciously as Cao Cao granted him tea instead of wine. "Thank you, my lord. To wine I am not accustomed. Tea, however; I drink often." And with that he took a gulp of his tea. It had yet to cool and the flavor was strong. A powerful tea with a bitter bite; that was exactly what he was used to. The warmth of the tea help to calm his unnerved body. Only recently had he managed to accept Miaocai's death, and the rage he felt had nearly swallowed his being. This tea could clam him for a time.
The Guardian Wolf arose to walk alongside his new lord, as he had beckoned. Toward the hall he'd crossed down moments before Ai Rui now walked with his new goals in mind. The skyline was gorgeous, and Ai Rui wondered just how he could notice such a thing at this time. All the same, he did indeed notice.
Baohulang looked down as Mengde spoke. "Perhaps there is little greatness to see. I am not the warrior my father and brothers were. I spend my days in thought, and oft forget to eat. I study and learn and read and write, but to an end even I do not understand."
"And then, perhaps you should live longer than you believe. Live is a complex matter, so be sure you have properly prepared for what lies beyond your time. Even if you do near you end as you so say; what you do now will rival the acts of your enemies for times to come."
He looked upon the relaxed face of his lord. "How are Uncle's sons holding themselves? Have they sworn vengeance upon his murder?"
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