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Post by Mr Vash on Jun 18, 2008 17:54:02 GMT -5
Come here to speak with the ruler of the city. You must gain entrance through the city gates unless authorized by the ruler.
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Post by Sun Shang Xiang on Jul 29, 2008 14:41:59 GMT -5
Xiang still held a smile on her face from her three bouts in the barracks, the last of which was a tough victory in her favour, but proved she had all the ability to be a serious threat on the battlefield as a warrior. She knew there would be much better fighters out there, but she would try and deal with them as they come, but for now she felt pride in herself, and confident she could continue to perform well in Wei and keep earning the praise of Cao Cao.
They were in palace now, she and Cao Cao being the first ones inside and his other servants followed on behind. The guards once more raised their guard to make sure no unwanted visitors turned up, the usual case for when their lord was there. She stood up before the throne, waiting for Cao Cao to take the seat as he usually did.
"Do you think I would be able to go to war with you my Lord? Whenever war comes of course. My father would never let me..." She looked down, only to look back up again with her big doe like eyes, irresistable. This played in Mengde's hands surely, now he didn't have to go through the bother of asking if she would fight along side him if war was to happen, now he had a willing warrior princess in his force... could things get any better? A willing lover, a willing fighter, what next for Sun Shang Xiang?
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Post by Sun Yuan Ci on Jul 29, 2008 15:32:20 GMT -5
*It was dawn now. Dawn. A simple time, within a few hours, where all was still. Dawn was a way to describe the passings of eras, as well. With the era of the Han, and the era of Dong Zhuo now set down, it was the dawn of a new era. It was also dawn within Xu Chang, with the sun peaking out over the eastern wall, above the ramparts, beginning to emit an orange flow over the city that would strike out in commerce in a few short hours. For now, though, it being merely dawn, most were asleep.*
*Sun Yuan Ci, a man who had established a name for himself from taking to the battlefield against Dong Zhuo, showing up at the opportune time to sway to tides, and fighting through the chaos of the battle to find himself pitched in battle with Lu Bu himself, shining as an equal of the mighty warrior. After the battle, while many now claimed themselves as lords, Zhiyun took to the countryside, hunting down those who would do harm to the people these lords said they protected. The place he wondered from now was the once-great city of Ye, which had been burned to the ground on the eve of Dong Zhuo's fall. Now, it stood once again as a somewhat respectable city. Though its shell, its walls, were so massive and gave enough room for a large city and the buildings now constructed did not cover one third of the landmass allotted, people came from all over Xi Bei to aid Sun Yuan Ci in rebuilding the city.*
*After the battle that ended Dong Zhuo's reign, there was a celebration held. Here, as Zhiyun departed, he called to all to look upon him as a face of inspiration to make it through the chaos of the upcoming days. With his hunting of the rel brigands at Xia Pi, and his saving of the refugees at Ye, he was now known as two things. One being 'The man that Lu Bu feared.' The other being 'The face of inspiration.' Through all this, Sun Yuan Ci remained humble. He had stayed at Ye, and hung up his now-fabled Crescent Spear for the time being. He had built a farm and was doing his best to help the growth of Ye by improving their market trade. But now, he found himself at Xu Chang.*
*He entered the northern gates after riding past an outpost. Upon arrival, a small contingent of men were waiting for him. The leader, a lieutenant in Mengde's army, greeted him with a military salute. He cupped his hand, bringing a fist into it, and bowed his head as he held this parallel to the ground. Zhiyun, refusing to return a military formality in times of 'peace' merely smiled, nodding his head at the respectful gesture. The lieutenant insisted upon taking Sun Yuan Ci to see Lord Mengde himself. Though Zhiyun had respect for this man, who had arisen in the chaos to be proclaimed a hero of this land, he also had a great deal of fear for the power that the man possessed, and his questionable intentions. Zhiyun hung his head, and allowed the soldiers to guide his horse to the palace.*
*Upon entrance, Zhiyun was struck with an aura of royalty he had not seen since his childhood. Everything that was here, every trim of silk, every gem, every ounce of gold... Zhiyun could have possessed. He could have possessed, only if he could stomach the corruption, and surrender his honor to obtain it. He gave up this royalty when he deserted the army as a youth. Now, however, he found himself forcefully thrown into it once more. Now, instead of the presence of his father, he was in the presence of Mengde.*
"Lord Cao Cao, you will be pleased to hear who has graced our fair city this morning. I had reports from a northern outpost that Sun Zhiyun was approaching Xu Chang, and personally greeted him. I bring him before you now."
*The lieutenant spoke, all the while bowing down to the floor. His words, echoing off the marble and blue carpet, bounced up to the throne, where the Hero of Chaos sat. Sun Yuan Ci looked up to the man, tilting his head in a bow.*
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Post by Cao Cao on Jul 29, 2008 15:49:12 GMT -5
As many of the servants washed back into the throne room, gossip and excited banter came with it too. They had just witnessed a gruelling and testing ordeal, undertaken by the former princess of Wu, who was know under the watchful eye of their lord Cao Cao. Her fervour inspired the hundreds of soldiers present to fight on for their own glory within the kingdom, to gain the praise Mengde had showered down upon her, though perhaps not the tender affection. Regardless, many of the soldiers were invited into the throne room to have drinks with their lord; when the two final warriors had recuperated from their ill state, they too would be celebrated as fine fighters.
Cao was busy with the various sycophants questions chirping into his ear as he entered the throne, his cape following in quick succession, and his armoured boots knocking down upon the marble floors. Inside the throne room was truly a place of grandeur. Hundreds of banners draped down the sides, interchanging from Han and Wei symbols and colours, each lined with a golden dyed silk. Along the sides of the rooms were various chambers, spaced apart by long lengths of wall decorated with statues, pictures, and golden ornaments. Cao’s throne itself was not particularly grandiose, elevated only by 4 short steps, and hugged at the sides by two other seats, likely for concubines, and the most loyal of advisors. Stretched out in front of the seat was a velvety blue carpet, lined out to the entrance of the throne room. Behind the throne itself was a large dining table, which could seat some 50 men with ease; goblets and crockery were always laid out and prepared for visitors, with a variety of servants nearby to offer up wine and food.
Dismissing the servants with a brief wave of his hand, and taking a goblet of wine with the other, Mengde approached his throne, sipping his drink, and then smiled at the princess there that waited for him. Lightly he fell back into the chair, and listened carefully and admirably to her words, smirking, and then setting aside his goblet on the thick arm rests. He motioned for the girl to sit, then gave his wicked reply.
“I wouldn’t have you anywhere else should war break out, my lady, I shall have you burn the enemy with your fire, and inspire our own men with your beauty and fervour. Your father, unfortunately, could not see your skills..” Briefly he shook his head, another movement that was forced and fake, attempting to portray his empathy towards the girl. She was a valuable asset to him on the battlefield now, for he had few worthy commanders to his name. Xiahou Dun had been absent for some time, and albeit the man proved himself against Dong Zhuo, it would take more than one able bodied servant to conquer the country. Mengde’s position within the dwindling Han was his only true source of strength at this time.
Attention soon turned back to the rest of the room, as one of Cao’s lieutenants sauntered in, bringing with him a not too familiar face, but an all too familiar and spectacular name. Sun Yuan Ci, the man who had equalled the deadly and mighty Lu Bu, was now present in this room before him. Many of the other servants halted their banter to briefly catch a glimpse of the man, expecting him to be of titanic proportions, and of a Godly demeanour. But there he stood, beneath the throne of Cao Mengde, he could only glance down with a visage of sincere reverence. To the man’s light nod, the Hero of Chaos rose from his throne, and slammed his fist into his palm, giving the man a full show of the respect he felt. Sitting back down, Cao then began to spoke in his usual eloquent, charismatic tone.
“Lord Sun Zhiyun, it is an honour; for what reason do you present yourself here before me today?” As soon as the question was asked, a few servants had launched to their feet, preparing a goblet for Zhiyun to drink from. Before moving however, they awaited for their lords command, and more importantly, Yuan Ci’s response.
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Post by Sun Shang Xiang on Jul 29, 2008 17:03:26 GMT -5
She watched as Lord Cao Cao moved up to his throne and motioned for her to sit on a seat next to him, she was however, not going to, and she had her reasons. She bowed respectfully and spoke in a tone that suited the occasion. "If my lord would give me permission I would instead prefer to change my clothing. I am sure my lord does not want visitors seeing me battle worn?" He was not going to deny her, not when she stated her facts for requesting so clearly, and she had a point.
Assuming he accepted she would be directed into a seperate room where she would be given clothing suitable for one of her current position and lineage. Cao Cao would expect similar clothing to usual, well made battle garments or at least some kind of clothing with red showing her background, but no when she revealed herself from out of the room, many minutes later, she wore blue clothing, well fashioned that complimented her beauty far more than previous, indeed, now she looked like a true princess. What was more startling was the colour, she realised Cao Cao was her lord now, not her father, and so she decided to give her full support to Wei.
"...I hope my Lord is pleased." She announced her entry and moved forward to take the seat her lord had just offered her.
She sat down and looked over to the new visitor, hearing his name as she moved forward. He was as famed as any other warrior in this land, a man of such immense talent that entire armies falter at the very mention of his name. To have him in the palace was either a great blessing or a terrible curse. She did not speak though, knowing her place, and letting the two men converse for now until she was included with an introduction or a question.
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Post by Sun Yuan Ci on Jul 29, 2008 21:16:44 GMT -5
*He had felt slightly out of place from the moment he entered the city. It wasn't often he was greeted from place to place with a battalion of armored guards, and told to speak to a man ranking higher then any other in China. Seeing the grand state of the palace from the inside, a palace that fared well with the likes of the imperial palace of Luo Yang, it reminded him of his youth. Back before he could think for himself, where the origin of his skills that were now worshiped had begun. The many sessions with imperial advisers and tacticians, with great martial artists and great generals who taught him to fight. Though he had no love for what his childhood held, it was because of his father that he was now in the position he found himself in.*
*It was a bad idea on their part to train him to become such a warrior, as he took up arms against them. Many of those who trained him were now dead, or pending execution. While the young man they trained now stood in the company of Cao Cao himself, the Hero of Chaos. But they were not alone. He stood also in the company of a familiar face. Familiar not to his own eyes, as he'd never made acquaintance with Lady Sun, but he knew her face from portraits. She had grown, matured into a beautiful young woman. It was strange now, that he would see Lady Sun... in the palace of Xu Chang. Zhiyun paused for a moment, ignoring Mengde's greeting while tilting his brow, his eyes fixed upon the daughter of Sun Jian, questionably anchoring his head to the left. However, noticing breaking off from the company of Cao Cao would be more then rude, he returned his gaze to the king after one more take at the lady.*
"What brings me here? I fear I was simply passing by, but when your kind lieutenant offered to introduce me to the famous Cao Cao, I couldn't find it in myself to decline such a meeting. It is not often that a mere civilian who found a spear and a battle one day is in the presence of a military kingpin such as yourself. Though I was unworthy of this meeting, with the lieutenant's persistence and my own curiosity, I find myself here now. I apologize if I am interrupting any.. personal matters."
*As Zhiyun concluded speech, he brought his eyes back to Sun Shang Xiang, scanning her body language to see what she would make of what he said. Though he did not wish to force his way into Wei's matters, he also found it a little too strange that the daughter of a famous warlord sat in the palace of another. All the while, however, he wished... no... he dared not anger Mengde, for his stature was not too tall to rival Cao Cao's, and it was not too high to be broken faster then it had risen.*
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Post by Cao Cao on Jul 30, 2008 6:55:49 GMT -5
Great transitions had now occurred now, not just within the palace, but within the great history of China, and the country itself. Despite the destruction of Dong Zhuo at their hands, the mighty Han was dwindling, and those who were once important amongst its ranks were now losing their grand influence over both the present and the future of the people. Cao Cao himself, who had become the infamous “Hero of Chaos” through his service in the Han, would lose his standing, and indeed his literal power over the lands; the rise of many new lords would also give rise to great new ambitions that vied for power. They undoubtedly would come in conflict with the Cao family in the process, but with the Sun family now merging into his own, his power now had the potential to become truly symbolic.
The beautiful princess Sun Shang Xiang had disappeared momentarily from Mengde’s side, who lightly quirked his eyebrow as the young girl slipped behind the scenes. Soon she returned, and much to Cao’s delighted surprise, she was adorned in the most complimenting and elegant of blue, regal clothing, that now perfectly, and even seductively hugged her petite frame, and brought out all of her best features. Cao’s eyes were locked upon this somewhat ethereal figure, her soft words caressing the Wei lords ego; her efforts were made to please him. Indeed, he was impressed, his lips curled up in the corners into a sly grin, and momentarily he had forgotten that the great Sun Yuan Ci had presented himself in the room. Had Cao succeeded? This woman sat beside him not only as a princess, but as a queen of Wei, no longer holding her ties to Wu, who’s rash efforts had driven the young girl further into Mengde’s arms. Even the many servants in the room were stunned by her will to appease her new lord, and by her incredible, stunning beauty. Cao Cao could only smirk in delight, before finally turning back to Zhiyun.
His wily eyes caught Zhiyun’s own gaze, and noticed it focussing upon the princess at his side, to which his own eyes flickered back to the young Xiang. His grin became slightly more wicked, his plan had worked, for many were now noticing the bond between Cao and Sun, and looking upon it with slight amazement, or even confusion: both supplied Mengde with the attention he craved. He did not yet introduce the girl, instead listening to Zhiyun’s respectful words, to which Cao nodded, and then replied with equal reverence.
“My lieutenant has a skill for spotting the strong and famous, lord Zhiyun, I thank him now for his persistence in bringing you forward. You may call yourself a civilian sir, but your successes have proven that the people of this country all have the ability to find greatness within them. Perhaps all they need is a little guidance.. A little push.” Cao’s statement was more than a commentary on the people of his country, but rather a subtle pry into what “pushed” Zhiyun into becoming the man he was today. Mengde was greatly intrigued by the man, and ignored his comment regarding his unworthiness to be here; he wished to compliment the man, but not flatter him.
“Drink?” Cao flicked his hand out slightly towards the servants, and one particularly elegant woman stepped out holding a platter, with a goblet of fine wine perched atop it delicately. He would watch the man’s reactions to this offer, and at the same time, also introduce the lady Sun. “My apologies, I should’ve divulged into your curiosity sooner.. This is the lady Sun Shang Xiang , her presence here is a matter of safety, as the turmoil within her own.. Former kingdom, places too much danger on her young life.” Mengde wanted further attention from the man towards this situation, though did his best to keep his shrewd ways subtle, ever looking down to Zhiyun with his fiery eyes, and charismatic demeanour.
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Post by Sun Yuan Ci on Jul 30, 2008 12:15:13 GMT -5
*Here and now, in the presence of the great Cao Cao, Zhiyun's own realizations of his fears of the man came to complete form. This man, in every essence of his being, was dangerous. Be it on the battlefield, where he was known for his martial arts as a youth; or now, being as an important figure throughout the land, where he cannot risk his life on the frontlines, but rather sits back and commands the battlefield. Here, he is even more frightening, as the man clearly had studied Sun Tzu's writings from cover to cover, and deciphered every message the great philosopher-warrior had put into the Art of War. He was a military genius. If Zhiyun had thirty thousand men against Cao Cao's thirty, he would still fear the battle ahead.*
*A military genius, but here he stood being saluted by the man. And he was more frightened by this than he ever would be in the face of battle. He did not quiver, his knees did not shake, and he did not stutter. He held his posture, turning his attention to the beautiful maiden who now served him a fine goblet of wine. Accustomed to drinking wine from simpler platters, he accepted. He carefully placed his fingers beneath the cup of the goblet, lifting his hand to take it, and bring it to his lips slowly, all the while listening to Mengde as he introduced Lady Sun. He was distracted, however, as the red wine he now flowed into his mouth was a finer brew then any he had ever tasted. He was reminded once again at what he had given up to hold onto his honor. But, for the people of Ye, and with his service to them, he also realized how much more valuable that was then drinking good wine in fine palaces.*
*Zhiyun could tell Cao Cao was a poet. Every word he said had a deeper meaning. It was spoken as if he was presenting it to the heavens, each word emphasized and accompanied by a piercing gaze of his powerful eyes. Zhiyun feared the man, not in the way a coward fears death, but in the way a student fears a master. He knew all about the power and command that Mengde held at his very breath. Meeting him now, he learned not only how true that was, but also how very much he could change the world with it. He was held in a trance by the man, as the daughter of Sun Jian also sat at his side, looking as though she was a little too comfortable to be a mere guest.*
"I have heard... that the mighty warlord Sun Jian has gone missing. And I have heard that the conqueror Sun Ce has fallen in death. A shame, I must say, that the mighty descendants of the wise Sun Tzu have met such hard times. To offer a helping hand in such times is something I can respect, my lord."
*He spoke, respectfully, but still hiding a questioning tone at Cao Cao's intentions. Mengde, probably realizing this, would also most likely greet the challenge Zhiyun put at his feet with a smile on his face. It was not often a man as powerful as he was challenged. Sun Yuan Ci took another drink from the goblet, downing two small mouthfuls of the delicious wine before placing it back on the plate that the beautiful maiden had brought before him. He smiled a wide and charming smile, thanking her, then looked back up to the throne.*
"My success is given to me before I even grasp my spear. Before I even mount my horse. I perform my acts in a charitable manner, for the good of the people and the good of the land. It is the will of the heavens that I succeed, not my own talent. However, my lord Mengde, I have been plagued with a wonder as to why I saw no Wei banners on the riverside when the allied forces pierced into Dong Zhuo's defenses. And as I rode down the allied lines, I noticed only Xiahou Dun. If you don't mind my asking, where was Xiahou Dun's cousin as we tore Dong Zhuo's grasp of China asunder?"
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Post by Sun Shang Xiang on Jul 30, 2008 18:12:57 GMT -5
Sun Shang Xiang bowed her head as she was introduced to the famed warrior, a small smile showing her pleasant nature even without her having to speak. She kept herself in place, not speaking still, even though she may like to, she wanted to be the perfect wife to Cao Cao... well future wife... hopefully.
She looked to Cao Cao with a smile on her face, but that dropped when she saw another young woman enter from the other side and sit next to her Lord, holding his arm like she was his lover... She thought she was the only one for Cao Cao! ...but then again most lords in the Han had concubines... she just failed to comprehend Lord Cao Cao had them, he hadn't even warned her!
She was the fiery daughter of Sun Jian, not someone who would allow such disrespect for her. In a flash she shot up into a standing position and bent down. As she came up the flash of metal could be seen... she carried a dagger!? Cao Cao would not have known, how long had she had that!? Well she had it now and she was heading for that woman, a deeply angered glare on her face.
She went in for the kill, but the woman was quick and grabbed the arm of SSX before she could plant the blade into the girl's temple. Xiang found her strength lacking after her recent fighting but she wasn't letting go. Cao Cao would have to stop her, or wait for the guards already rushing to the scene to stop the Wu girl.
She didn't consider this would anger her lord, she just presumed whatever she did would please Cao Cao, especially after he seemed so proud and glad of her company whenever they were together. However this was to be an embarrassment in front of such company, surely a woman would not be allowed to do such things and get away with it?
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Post by Cao Cao on Jul 30, 2008 18:52:42 GMT -5
The mighty Zhiyun’s words were wise and reverent, yet also carried with them the hidden meanings that Mengde’s usually had woven within them. The man was certainly intriguing, he was widely known as a creature of strength and virtue due to his epic conflict with Lu Bu, which continued on after the battle had ended, and their deceased comrades began to decay on the fields around. Now, he was proving himself to be more than what his spear had made him; clever wordplay, shrewd wit, and devilish curiosity are three things that lord Cao admired, and within Sun Yuan Ci, he found them all.
Mengde smirked at the man’s main question, inquiring into his absence at the very fields that Zhiyun would spread his name to all the realms of China. He continued to carefully eye his every movement, from the slow curling of his fingers around the goblet, to the levels of fluid he consumed when taking a sip. No detail was missed by the scanning gaze of Cao Mengde, and indeed, it was where the devil was to be found. Quirking the corner of his lip up wryly, he gave Zhiyun his excuse.
“My cousin was worthy enough a representative of my family on your battlefield, lord Zhiyun, I meanwhile carried the Han banner across the eastern shores, and to our Japanese neighbours.” Cao’s smile now seemed one more of pride and honour, being given the opportunity to divulge into a new culture, as a representative of his country. He sat up slightly in his throne, smiling wider as the concubine to his side arrived, and grasped hold of his arm. Continuing, Cao’s tone suddenly became quite dry.
“Perhaps the heavens commanded Zhiyun take the glory against Dong Zhuo, and not Mengde.” He smirked slightly, as if testing the man’s true belief in fate and the will of the heavens. Cao was fully accustomed to The Way - not even he himself would dare test what the Gods had laid down before him - yet he always found it intriguing to see what others believed their fate to be. The lady Xiang would now test the fates themselves with her sudden outburst.
Seeing her rush forward, a gleaming new dagger grasped between her enraged fist, Cao Cao quickly leapt to his feet, grasping the lady Sun by the wrists as hard as he could, and pulling her back away from the concubine. The young woman had begun whimpering in fear, quickly fleeing back to her chambers in the palace, followed by several servants hoping to aid her.. Or even capitalise on the moment. Regardless, Mengde twisted the petite Sun Shang Xiang’s arms around her, until they now crossed her chest, wrapping her body up tightly in the brief struggle. Cao grunted fiercely, truly she was the tigress of Jiang Dong, but finally, he twisted the dagger out from her grasp, instantly dropping it the floor, and then releasing her arms in succession.
Furious at his own embarrassment in front of lord Zhiyun, Cao raised his hand up high, and belted the young woman across her visage with the back of his hand. It was a swift, sharp slap, not enough to seriously damage the heated girl, but resounding enough to cause an echo of pain. Roaring, Cao had momentarily lost all composure, and barked insults at the distraught Xiang.
“Useless woman! You insult me, lord Zhiyun, and your father with your brash, disgusting actions!” Cao suddenly felt a brief rush up through his body, one of aroused adrenaline. The fire of the lady Sun reminded him once again that she kept his heart and his urges burning strong, his face only briefly changing from anger to a smirk, before flashing back to fury. The other concubines never supplied him with such a feeling; they were all too obedient and too submissive for his liking, never daring to speak out of position, let alone rise and embarrass their lord with such an outburst. Mengde now stood glaring at the lady Sun awaiting her response, and panting slightly from his struggle with her, the surge of humiliation still stinging his pride.
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Post by Sun Yuan Ci on Jul 31, 2008 0:52:25 GMT -5
"You embarked on a journey to Japan? I envy you, Lord Mengde. The Japanese are known for their great culture, and to see that with thou own eyes is indeed something you can say with a head high in the air. I fear the farthest I've traveled is to Ye. I spent most my life inside the walls of Luo Yang, and only left to gather men to battle Dong Zhuo. Perhaps it was good that you were absent from the battle, as that allowed others to rise. Others... perhaps like myself."
*Zhiyun knew what the people thought of him. He knew fully that in the eyes of the people, he was known as a hero. He was the one who said to look to him along the countryside for inspiration to a better tomorrow. He knew fully that his feats in battle were something he could brag about, between slaying so many soldiers that blood still stained his silver armor, and battling Lu Bu to the bitter end, even getting so close to the man that he held a sharpened blade against the flesh of the tiger's neck. All of this, however, was humble heroics. While there was a man in the north named Mengqi who spouted his glory to anyone that would... or wouldn't listen, there was also Zhiyun, who refused to allow good deeds or battlefield heroics including the slaying of men as a things to boast about. A good deed is erased if it is done by a man who only does it for his own name. And battle, that is a different ordeal.*
"However, I... cannot find glory in battle. Many men, including Fengxian, speak of battle as a stage, where one can stand and create honor for himself with it. No. Lord Cao Cao, a man like yourself should understand what I say when I say there is no glory in war. The heavens might have led me to the battlefield, but they give me glory in the solitude of the people I help, not in the number of soldiers I slay. Glory is a source of honor, a distinguished ornament of pride. And anyone who believes glory is obtained by the wavering of blades in battle... is a damn fool. And he shall not be greeted with glory in the heavens after their hallow existence upon this land is extinguished."
*Sun Yuan Ci concluded his dialog, hoping that he could sway even the perception of Cao Cao with his words. The two were similar in so many ways. Both were identical in terms of honor, standing tall among a land of cowards and tricksters. Each were fine generals, and poetic in every essence of the word. They both had to work hard to get to their stature, from Cao Cao's rise in the Han to Sun Yuan Ci's disembarking from dishonor and call to arms against Dong Zhuo, and now spreading the smiles of the people from Xia Pi to Ye. These men, now friendly, were appearing to become what could be a masterful bond. An army consisting of both Cao Mengde and Sun Zhiyun was an army fit to conquer. But, the way the two tauntingly hid their true intentions behind their words, in a nearly mocking way, could also spell a rivalry that could cause storm clouds to form over their clashing armies. It would be a matter of time to see how the relationship concluded, it would depend entirely on the words of the two men, and each other's reactions.*
*Yuan Ci fell back, now, and only watched the events that transpired before him. Lady Sun, a guest in the palace, drew a dagger to assault a woman who appeared to be one of Mengde's concubines. Zhiyun, grinning a somewhat sinister smile, lowered his head, tilting it to his right, masking his grin with a lock of hair that fell from his head. He heard a ringing echo of flesh upon flesh, looking up to see Cao Cao follow through after striking Sun Shang Xiang. He concluded to announce his detestation for her actions, insulting both the men with them. Zhiyun respectfully took a step forward, raising his hand to gather the man's attention.*
"You mustn't fear, my lord. I am not angered by the lady's actions. I am sure that if you were to sit her down and calm her fierce mood, you could garner reasoning behind this assault. This, however, is none of my business. But please, lord, do not alter such a lively face with violent strokes."
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Post by Sun Shang Xiang on Jul 31, 2008 5:46:02 GMT -5
Xiang felt a sudden strength within the other Concubine as she was pushed back, but then she realised, it wasn't the Concubine after all, it was lord Cao Cao. She looked to him with confusion in her eyes as she was forced to disarm. He pulled her arms painfully into a cross and she let go of the dagger, thinking that was all he wanted... how wrong she would be.
She looked as his hand moved up, her big eyes flashing with an innocent look as if trying to stop what seemed so likely to come. It didn't work as she felt a sharp pain hit her face, her head bolting to the side. She yelped in pain before quickly putting her hand over the area and slowly bringing her face back. No one struck her and because of that she had a serious frown on her face in which time her right fist clenched getting ready to strike out.
She raised her fist about to punch her Lord, a most stupid action, until Zhiyun spoke, sending her out of her vengeful attack. She lowered her arm and concentrated on keeping her hand on her now painfully red cheek. Her eyes watered from the strike, a tear dripping down her unblocked cheek. Her father's name was used against her well once more by Cao Cao, and Xiang was starting to look more upset than angry as she recalled what he said in insult.
"I...I'm sorry..." SSX said looking down to the ground, and begun to walk out of the Audience Hall, believing she wasn't wanted there now.
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Post by avenger on Jul 31, 2008 6:10:41 GMT -5
A unrecognizable solider appeared in the hallway, this solider had a hood over his head and his cape dangling down from his shoulders. He looked on with interest over the current actions of Cao Cao & Sun Shang Xiang whom was his sister. But he didn’t know where her allegiance was with. She was wearing blue so maybe she was with him, he wondered how she could betray the Sun Family like this it didn’t seem right, just because father was missing didn’t mean she had to run off and become a new toy for Cao Cao. He had heard rumors that Liu Bei had tried to stop her from going with Cao Cao. He would return the favor even if his didn’t work. He saw his sister or former sister start to cry and walk away. This very time he also started to walk off towards the exit he had seen enough for now. Perhaps if someone asked him to stay he might but he wouldn’t reveal everything just yet.
As he tilted his head to the new Wei princess as she seemed to walk right past him. He slowly whispered to her '' Unforgivable’’ And he turned to face the other wall and walk off. What was he trying to do he needed some time to get all this info and process it completely in his head. His cape blew in the wind, his next stop he would never know. Only time would tell him were to go, Perhaps Liu Bei would be next, unless he was stopped by any member of Wei
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Post by Cao Cao on Jul 31, 2008 11:57:24 GMT -5
Cao’s rage had some elements of theatre within it; his outburst was overplayed to his servants, and indeed lord Zhiyun, to whom Mengde wished to seem intolerable of incompetence and disobedience. He wanted to prove to the man all the stories of Cao’s overbearing influence and power over his fellow man; it would seem that a woman would be the one to truly escape his every grasp. The poor girl cowered under her lords wrath, who was now slowly listening and indulging in Zhiyun’s words. Was the man toying with him? Taunting him from what had just happened? A deeper frown set into his brow, and without yet responding to his guest, Cao first turned his attention to the sobbing, damaged Shang Xiang.
He stepped down after her on light footsteps, swiftly grabbing her arm, and pulling her back closer to him, right up close to his now sinister visage. For a slight flash in handling this woman so freely and roughly, Cao felt a thrill of excitement wave through his body, his gaze showing the girls big, innocent, sparkling eyes everything within his soul. Quickly he closed the doors in this moment of weakness, and threw his princess back towards the throne, forcing her up onto her seat beside him. Mengde had not noticed this mysterious figure whom brushed past lady Sun, mistaking him for some lowly servant or guardsman. His attention was fixated on the most important figures in the room: lord Zhiyun, lady Sun, and above all, himself. Grunting slightly, and running a hand through his hair as he took up his seat on the throne once more, Cao briefly turned his attention to his princess, whispering in a familiar tone.
“You have no reason to leave.. Take the pain, feel the stings that I have felt woman. Revel in them.. Pain is what makes you and I alive..” Mengde smirked, slightly withdrawing his head from the whisper, and then sliding his hand over Xiang’s arm, as if massaging it soothingly. It was a typical image of a king caressing his queen in front of a captive audience, there to impress and boldly state their strength and unity. Clearly it was a falsity, but Cao was always one to play games, be it to amuse others, or mostly himself. Quirking his brow slightly, Wei’s lord turned his attention back to Zhiyun, whom had stepped closer in this time. A devilish smile played across his lips as he remembered the man’s previous comments, and in an instant, he formulated his response.
“Glory is a by-product of war.. And war has now become essential for the people to be liberated, for the tyrants to listen. The corrupt men of our age no longer take notice of our words, or our warnings.. These barely break the surface of their intrigue. Today, what we need is a sledgehammer.. Then we’ll have their full, unwavering, strict attention. If the people are to glorify us through the swinging this mighty tool, what men are we to deny their wishes, the very people whom we fought for?” Mengde’s response undoubtedly would’ve seemed similar to Zhiyun, whom had dealt with the mad barking of Fengxian’s thirst for glory on the battlefield. For Cao Cao, his thoughts were a product of the ever changing times, which always need ever changing solutions. Sun Yuan Ci’s thoughts had impressed him, this was undeniable, but his own opinions could not be repressed by a man whom had proved Cao’s very point on the battlefield.
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Post by Sun Yuan Ci on Jul 31, 2008 12:29:12 GMT -5
*Sun Yuan Ci felt sorry for the princess of Wu... or perhaps now of Wei. She had made a decision that she believed she could support, but now, mixed in her emotions, she was lost. Zhiyun had done his service to her, as he noticed she had prepared to strike Cao Cao before his words had reached her. That strike would be very unwise, as if Cao Cao was so angered by a bout between her and another concubine in his presence, then Cao Cao would surely find a new level of rage should he find himself hit by his 'guest.' Nevertheless, he was he to speak to Cao Cao, and the drama that surrounded him was only a distraction from his plot, which he was now coming closer to revealing.*
*It was definitely not just by chance that Zhiyun found himself in the palace of Xu Chang. If was not good luck that he was now talking to the Hero of Chaos himself. It was the will of Sun Yuan Ci for this to happen. He was not simply passing by when he was taken to the palace. The palace was his destination. Being flagged down and sent there was just a convenience.*
"These people... that would create such a need for such force to simply be heard. These are the people I rise to fight. These are the people that create the need for weapons to be risen in battle. Without them, there could be peace. But they are here, and they are many. Between the arrogant Yuan Shao, the ignorant Ma Chao, and the pretentious Liu Bei, who uses his virtuous name as an advantage. These men are those that must depart from the land for there to be peace. I am beginning to formulate a plan for this, as well. That is the true reason I have come here, Lord Mengde."
*Sun Yuan Ci reached into his gray robe, reaching into a crest within the inner lining. He pulled out a thin sheet of silk. It shined a shimmer of silver. He held it out, and a servant rushed to take it, then turning to run up to Cao Cao, bowing low as he presented the sheet to the lord. Up close, Cao Cao could see what it truly was. It was a silver sheet of silk, with a large symbol that read "T'se" in black, and more writing that read 'The Rising Sun over the Sun Cousins" Zhiyun stood prouder now, speaking not only as an honored guest, but as a military diplomat.*
"This is a new era, Mengde. You wanted to know why I have come. Forgive me, for when you asked, I filled your chambers with a lie. I have come, indeed, to speak to you. I wanted to meet Cao Cao himself, speak to him and learn if he lives up to the legend that precedes him. Cao Cao, you and I are a dying breed. No longer do people care for one another, or much less the people who look to them as heroes. Now, one's name defines everything, and often their name is fabled far beyond the truth of the person. I have come here to see who you would fight for. Would you fight those who dare to call themselves your lord, or mine? Or would you fight with me to dispel these people from the land?"
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