Banquet at Xi Liang (Xing Cai and Wei Yan)

[Ma Chao]

**Dark edit: Anyone else who wants to arrive has to send a PM to Ma Chao**

A few hours after Ma Chao's arrival at Xi Liang the audience hall was transformed into the location of the grand banquet. A large table was assembled with one end facing the throne and the opposite side facing the doors. Two large seats, at each end were for Ma Chao and Wei Yan the guest of honor. Rumors of his great deeds against Dong Zhuo and the aiding of Chang An's people spread to Xi Liang. The warrior had quite the following and many conversations upon the streets were of him.

Candles lined the room on each side, flanking the table, and attendants were rushing around trying to set up the food. Wine was plentiful and in barrels which were stacked in the corner of the room. It was a feast that could feed an entire army, but there were only to be around 20 guests or so. Among the guests were Yan Xing, Xing Cai, Fu Lan, multiple military officials, and civil officers. Wei Yan and Lu Rai would be allowed entrance, alone, and so would Xing Cai though she arrived by herself.

People were allowed to stand or take their seats until Ma Chao arrived. Once he appeared, all would probably listen to a small speech and then sit down to eat.

Yan Xing waited for Xing Cai to arrive and noticed some attendants pointing to the entrance. Another man made haste toward the palace stairs and could see Wei Yan ascending them with his comrade Lu Rai.

[Ayden (Retired)]

The Preparation[/u]

The preparation for the feast was not what Xing Cai had envisioned. She was treated like royalty by the handmaids of Xi Liang. She was just a guest, and yet they all bowed to her when approaching her. She was impressed by their discipline and sense of duty.

First, she was led to a spring to bathe. Nervously, she stripped down and was left alone, though guards were in place near the spring. The water was something of a relief to her, and being naked had its own mental effect on ones head. The sense of being released from everything, just being herself. After the bathing, she was led to a room where she was handed robes to wear at the banquet. The robes somewhat resembled the look of Diao Chan in DW6. Though lacking the purple, they were replaced with the golden colours of the Horde.

"They're abit too gold, don't you think?" Xing Cai stated to the maids, they only smiled and bowed. She felt as though she wasn't a part of Shu, wearing the robes of a differing kingdom. The maids also, to the notice of Xing Cai, often raised their eyebrows when Xing Cai made swivels and turns. They were indeed impressed and somewhat jealous by her youth and beauty. The maids were then instructed by invisible commands to tend to Xing Cai's hair and makeup. She honestly felt like a princess, like she was the sister or...wife of Ma Chao.

"He is a mighty handsome man, Ma Chao." Commented the maid who was styling and tending to the hair of the Shu daughter. Xing Cai laughed slightly and raised a eyebrow.

"I couldn't make a judgment."
"Were you too overwhelmed?"
"No...Just...Exhausted."

The maid laughed in one push before finishing the hair. Staring at her reflection, she smiled and actually complimented herself in her mind. She was indeed desirable, but she never thought of love or men or any of that rubbish. It would get in the way of her pride as a warrior.

"You are stunning, milady."

---

The Feast

The doors opened slowly, light making its way into the massive dining halls. The ministers stopped to see who they expected to be Wei Yan. Instead, their eyes were graced by a almost overwhelming beauty. From the steps, being led by maids of Xi Liang, Xing Cai entered. She tried not to draw too much attention, as she was just a guest, but just her entire appearance caught many eyes. As stated previously, her robe looked something like Diao Chan's in DW6, but in the colours of Ma Chao's Golden Horde. None would see her as a Shu warrior in this outfit. She tried her hardest to ignore the eyes of all the guards and men who watched her every step. She was led to her seat by two maids, she bowed in a nodding fashion to them, thanking them for their maintenance and comfort they shared.

Then, she did the very thing she had yet to do this entire stay. She turned her head towards Ma Chao, and her head raised to his eye level. Physically, he appeared a human, but in the somewhat overwhelmed eyes of Xing Cai, he had the head of a king lion. The flowing mane representing his hair, the giant ferocious eyes that would stare down any that dare appear hostile to his family. She managed to hold her gaze, before bowing once in a nodding fashion. She wouldn't speak yet, she hadn't been addressed.

[Wei Yan]

((Everyone else is doing titles! I'm doing one!))

Think This Comes In Bloodied?

Before arriving at the feasting hall...

"What do you think, Rai?" asked the warrior as he looked himself over in a bowl of water. Wei Yan was never accustom to large banquests or feasts, hell he'd barely bathed before the one in Lou Yang, and now he was to be a guest of honor!? Gods help the man who meant to help him: Lu Rai.

Rai just laughed a bit looking over Yan's clothing, it was torn, sweaty, and dirty at that. The warrior was still wearing the same clothes he'd worked on the walls of Chang An with! Shaking his head, Rai just pointed to the laid out battle gard upon the table. For a moment, Yan was sad; he hated dressing up.

"Are you serious, Rai? That's not battle garb! It's! It's! It's not bloody or beaten! Atleast let me take my spear!" pleaded the warrior, but Lu Rai just shook his head. Yan would be go without weapon, without anything, while Lu Rai wore his normal battle gear and carried both his short spear and short sword, his shield slung over his shoulder. One of them had to be prepared. And so Yan dressed...

His clothes were simple. They were a aquamarine color, much like the kingdom color of glory with an off-white trim. The sleeves were not present, it was sleeve-less. The pants hung loosely, for the warrior would have it no other way. He wanted to be able to move. His boots were double padded on the heel and toe, for running, jumping, and landing. Somethings' Yan refused to change, his boots were one of them. Finally, his shoulder length hair was kept out of his face by a aquamarine headband. The warrior even shaved. This feast was to be his last! "Bah! Rai I look like a diplomat! What would the people think of me!? Acting a fool and such..."

But Rai just smirked a bit and shook his head. "We need to be going. So lets go, guest of honor."

Yan fumed with anger! He hated being made a fool of, and needless to say he was set up for it by Rai. One smart gesture, one wrong word about it.. and Yan would disembow the smart tongued fool!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Supper Time!

Needless to say their arrival into the feasting hall was very, odd. Wei Yan scowled the whole way at Lu Rai, who just smirked and patted the warrior on the shoulder. Every now and then Rai would whisper something to him, until they reached the doors, then Yan just sighed and went back to his normal gesture.

The warrior entered and took in the sights of the room. Ma Chao the Splendid spares no expense huh?, thought Yan as he made his way through the room. First he noted the many servents and maids, then he saw something a bit out of place. An officer of Shu... A female... not a sworn brother... but... wait... Yan knew her. Lu Rai nudged him when Rai saw he had noticed the girl, "Xing Cai, Daughter of Zhang Fei. She was there during the battle against Dong Zhuo" whispered Rai before moving on up to the seat where Wei Yan would sit. It was there the armed make took his post, his hand resting firmly on the pommel of his shortsword.

The warrior sent a polite nod towards the female warrior of Shu, before addressing her as he walked. "Lady Cai! Glad to see the rebels didn't tear you limb from limb."

With that Yan was already tired of being here. It wasn't the people, no he loved that, it wasn't the Shu general, she was well respected, it was these damn clothes! But Yan wouldn't show it, he just smiled and nodded to random servants and maids. Everynow and then he was seen helping them carry some food to the table or preparing some other random thing before finally making his way to his seat. There he nodded to Lu Rai who gave him that look of, "Just suck it up," and patted his shoulder. Then the warrior sat, and waited.

"Ma Chao the Splendid... Xing Cai... Who else will come here? I wonder if my friend Guan Yu will arrive... or Sun Yuan Ci... Surely "The man even Lu Bu feared" will show his face. Maybe he'll bring his courageous cousin, Sun Liao? Or Ji-Huang Liang? Or Xiahou Dun? I hear they all have found their niche in life. Liang came to Chang An, but never made his way to see me, sadly. Lu Rai says Zhou Tai is a tired ruler... Maybe he'll make his way here. I'd love to speak with him. Anyway! Focus on the feast at hand!" Wei Yan's mind was full of thoughts. Random, odd, pondering thoughts.

[Ma Chao]

All the guests had arrived and they were awaiting the entrance of Ma Chao, leader of the Golden Horde Army and ruler of Xi Liang. They would soon be awe struck as the young warrior appeared from behind the throne, adorned in ceremonial armor, and flanked by multiple attendants on both sides. They were there to act upon any request and to hold their lord's mighty spear which was currently in his grasp.

Ma Chao stopped in front of the throne and scanned the crowd looking for his guest of honor. There, in the back, he saw Wei Yan and he offered a slight nod to the warrior before handing his weapon over to the attendants. It took two men to hold it and even still they were struggling.

"It is good to see that you have decided to come, Lord Wei Yan" he said, beginning to walk down the throne stairs one at a time.

To his right he could see Yan Xing and Xing Cai. To the lady he smiled briefly and to his second he nodded. Without his comrade he would be nothing but another wandering warrior without a path. In fact, he would be nothing if it was not for his father Ma Teng.

Ma Chao stopped for a moment and thought of his father, not caring if all eyes were on him; which they were. It reminded him of why he had summoned the people gathered today. They were all important to Mengqi for aiding in avenging his father's death and ridding the land of war. Ironically, it was what he lived for. The rush of charging headlong into the enemy lines or killing a man with his deadly spear, it was what he enjoyed most.

Before anything else, the leader walked over to his place at the tabel and picked up a cup of wine. Most of the people would move toward the banquet table, seeing as how that was where Ma Chao was. No doubt he would say a few things before they sat down to eat.

"A toast, to my father Ma Teng!" he said, raising his cup to the heavens and then down to his lips.

He placed the cup down and looked toward Wei Yan who had recently arrived with his comrade Lu Rai. The two were famed warriors from the battle against Dong Zhuo and many of the people present were watching them closely. Surely Xing Cai would be impressed as Yan was now shaven and had a change of clothing.

"It is an honor to finally meet you in person. I assume Lu Rai is the man by your side?"

The cup of wine was raised again and a toast issued for Wei Yan.

"I believe you know Xing Cai here, as i heard she too was apart of the glorious battle. I, unfortunately, was tied up with other matters of the kingdom. One can not leave to attack if being attacked" he said, looking around the table to see Fu Lan.

Ma Chao waved his hand and gestured for everyone to sit. A snap of Yan Xing's finger followed and attendants rushed forward, one to each guest to act as their personal servant.

"I have heard that your work in Chang An has been excellent. Fu Lan here said that there was no other city more splendid. That is quite impressive."

Fu Lan smirked when he was mentioned and he looked to Wei Yan. He had stated the truth to Ma Chao about Chang An, but it never hurt to try and bring the two kingdoms closer with a little verbal aid.

The guests could feel free to eat or drink their fill. Anyone could talk now as Ma Chao was through and ready to entertain his visitors with any questions or conversation. There was a slight commotion near the back of the throne as a few musicians entered.

Banquet Music

Guards entered the room as well as a few other performers. Perhaps a demonstration of swordsmanship for all the guests?

[Wei Yan]

And So It Begins...

A slight chuckle came from Wei Yan as the host made his entrance. He couldn't help it. The warrior had never been one for great entrances or anything of the sort unless on the battlefield, and even then a great entrance consisted of carrying an enemy head... No less. Lu Rai nodded when his name was spoke, obliging the lordling that he was correct in his thought. The armed guardian felt odd being spoken of among so many great people of the time. With each toast though, Wei Yan stood, a whole jug of wine in his hand and made sure to take his drink. If anything would calm his stress over the clothes it would be the wine.

"Lord Ma Chao, it's an honor to have finally met you as well. Your messenger, Fu Lan spoke highly of you. The names ran on for days the peasents of Chang An rumor." replied Wei Yan, giving a humble laugh at his own jest. Who else would have? The warrior didn't honestly care, he wasn't a man of politics or lordship correctness. "And yes, my host, this grand warrior with me is none other than the famed shield-man: Lu Rai!"

Once again, Wei Yan caught himself talking up his companion like Rai was some sort of warrior god. It was an odd habit, and still neither man knew where it spurred from. It didn't matter though, it was a habit Yan had come to enjoy for it always got a rise out of Lu Rai, except for today. Today... Rai was a man of principal and duty. The armed guardian just smiled and nodded his thanks to Yan. That brought quite a laugh from the warrior.

The mood changed quickly though. Wei Yan was a man of blunt honestly, and that meant he was tired of playing around his reason for being at the banquet. So, like a warrior upon the battlefield, he took the first strike in conversation. It was Lu Rai who'd gave him the comparison, hoping to make him better at conversation. Sadly it only made him very competitive and quick to anger with words.

"Well lets not chew the fat, Lord Ma Chao. I know not why Xing Cai, Warrior-Maiden of Shu, was asked to come to this banquet. Though I can probably guess a few wrong things. That aside, I know why I have been asked. The northern Wu Wei mountains are very cluttered as of late by two regional lords. The lords of Glory and The Golden Horde. I believe this banquet is a refined way to point out that fact. So tell me, Lord of The Golden Horde, do you plan to try and conquer China?"

Lu Rai's jaw dropped and his heart skipped a beat. Yan! You fool! How dare you speak out like that! We'll be on the chopping block for sure! Damn you!, rushed the thoughts of Rai as he firmly laid a hand upon the shoulder of the now standing Wei Yan, but the warrior just stood his ground.

Wei Yan wasn't trying to be threatening, nor was he trying to be rude, but he was a general first and a politician never. He wasn't one to beat around the bush, nor was he one to play the mental word games with other lords. He knew what he wished to know, and so he asked. What man wouldn't respect that?

[Ayden (Retired)]

Everything was abit too predictable to Xing Cai's liking. She was expecting that her presence would make little difference to the whole meeting, as it was designed to be only between Wei Yan and Ma Chao. Something made her believe that it was only proclaimed a feast as there was more unexpected visitors, like herself. Was she being too...judgmental? No, it was exactly how it was, she was just a foreign guest, nothing more.

She wasn't spoken to directly, but despite her head spinning, he overheard her name being mentioned a number of times. The smile that made its way from Ma Chao's face to her eyes was welcomed with another bow. Seating herself slowly, she heard the words proclaimed by Ma Chao of Xi Lian. As he toasted, Xing Cai could only reply in a artificial robotic fashion by toasting her own glass. She was only 17, she knew nothing of these bonds and affairs. Her eyes would mostly drift from the food, occasionally to the current speaker. She was quite daunted by the whole layout.

Wei Yan, she recognized him from the coalition against Dong Zhuo. He was the man who charged with no mercy into their ranks. Almost suicidal, such courage could often be mixed up with foolishness. Still, many warriors from that battle she had no name for, their faces just apart of the giant massacre.

Sitting silently, she continued to eat her meal slowly, drinking when she felt the need. Surprisingly she downed her wine quicker than she would have imagined, maybe Zhang Fei's famous antics rubbed off on her? The music that played soon soothed her, as the awkward silence between the two men was now lifted.

[Ma Chao]

The entire hall went quiet when Wei Yan spoke his mind about the situation in the northwest and his reason for attending. Every shift of someone in their seat, every piece of food dropped back onto the plate, every deep breath taken could be heard with clarity. It was a chilling silence and no one even dared to look at Ma Chao who was probably boiling over in anger. How dare his guest immediately speak out in such a manner?

Yan Xing got to his feet and pointed to Wei Yan in anger. His chair flew backwards and the politicians present almost soiled themselves.

"How dare you insist that my lord has any intentions for the lady Xing Cai! Also, you ask such a question when my lord just sits down to enjoy himself!?" Xing stated, fuming at Wei Yan's outburst.

Guards did not know what to do but they moved forward a few steps before halting immediately. Yan Xing also stopped his verbal assault when a raised hand by Mengqi could be seen.

"Settle down, Yan Xing, i will handle this."

Ma Chao smirked and truly enjoyed Yan's boldness, who else would do such a thing straight away. The man was fearless and to the point, not wanting to deal with political maneuvering or mind games.

The young leader looked to his left at Fu Lan who seemed to be uneasy about the whole exchange of words. It seemed he possibly felt Wei Yan could have dug his own grave. Lan knew Ma Chao's rash nature and he had killed men for less.

"It is true that i have brought you here for a reason, Lord Yan. As i stated earlier, your name has been spreading rapidly due to deeds in Chang An and elsewhere. Although it is good to know other heroes exist, for the people, unfortunately the province is only so big."

Officers and officials alike could not believe what was just said. Their mouths were already agape from Wei Yan's comments, but now they were almost having heart attacks. Did their lord just declare future war on the kingdom of Glory? No, he was just pointing out the obvious.

"Do i intend to rule all of China? Possibly" he said, picking up his cup of wine and taking another sip. His eyes shifted to the right, noticing Yan Xing watching intently to see what his lord would say next. His eyes shifted to the left, noticing Fu Lan squirming around in his chair. Then, his eyes darted back toward Wei Yan who by now was probably laughing. The warrior was correct in his assumption of his invite, but could obviously not foresee the outcome. Two powerful warlords in one province, it was obvious that at some point there would be conflict. However, that did not mean Wei Yan was not here to be offered an alliance.

"What makes me any different than you? Do you intend to rule the land, Wei Yan? The Han has died and a new Emperor must rise, many think they are worthy and will try to ascend to the Imperial throne. I know of three men that are already scheming to do so."

Ma Chao got up from his seat and looked around at all present. He was charismatic, powerful, and truthful which is what the people respected about him. Why not then, should he not have a chance like anyone else?

"Shu, Wei, and Wu are most powerful kingdoms lead by skilled leaders. However, I believe the Golden Horde to be even more grand and worthy of its chance to bring peace to China!" the young lord said, raising his cup once again as a toast to the Horde.

The guests wondered what Wei Yan's intentions were with the land and his growing influence. He too had just as much right to bring his version of peace to China. The question was, with all these ambitious men vying to control the land there would be oceans of blood spilled, of that there was no doubt. Was Cao Cao's version of peace different from that of Liu Bei? Hopefully all included no war and infinite aid to the people, though that was probably just fantasy.

After Ma Chao's toast, which all of his members took part in with much fervor, he sat back down and awaited a response. He gazed to his right, at Xing Cai, and wondered just what the lady was thinking. She would no doubt return to Liu Bei and inform him of what had transpired at the banquet. However, Ma Chao did not give a damn. His intentions would be known to all throughout the land soon enough.

[Wei Yan]

Ding Ding! Round 2!

Wei Yan was much pleased with the lordling's truthfulness, but it seemed he's beaten around the question. Coward, came the thought thankfully it didn't breach his lips. Lu Rai just sighed and when some of the guards had first moved, his hand had went back to the pommel of his blade. Though it cooly fell away when they stopped. The warrior on the other hand, didn't seemed to be moved at all by all the hostility.

"Your friend is very supportive, that is good. Will I rule China? Haha!" Wei Yan had to laugh for a moment. He was starting to get comfortable now that he was open and talking. "I won't rule China. Probably not, but will I try. Oh yes! That's why I made started my kingdom: Glory. I will help these people achieve their true potential, the imperial kingdom seat is not of any concern to me as it is others."

Then the lordling spoke of Shu... A home of an officer Wei Yan had come to truly befriend, Guan Yu. The man was an honorable duelist and a wise companion. He was loyal and steadfast, and this Ma Chao had put himself over him. A cold chill creeped up the warrior's spine and his grip on the wine jug tightened. Not only had he spoke of Shu, but also of Wu and Wei. Yan and made friends in all these kingdoms: Zhou Tai, Steward of Wu, and Xiahou Dun, Cousin to Cao Cao. Both men were honorable and steafast. Hell, Xiahou Dun had even stood beside Yan on the field of battle.

"My Host, I have no doubt that your rule is grand in the eyes of your officers, but these people seem almost afraid of the military might you possess. Rumors spread of the alliance between you and barbarians that send some of them into crying fits. None of the commoners of Shu are like this, nor of Wei. Wu's men are without a true leader and still they follow Zhou Tai rather well. Yet you compare yourself to be better than them?" There was more to be said, but instead Yan just thought it: Better than hard working men, not some brat with a horse and a sword playing hero in memory of his father. Though the look on the warriors faced showed his complete distaste of the idea. Lu Rai by now was even a bit disturbed.

"Rai. I believe this feast will be short. Eat your fill. I've seen the true colors of this Ruler. They are not that of his banner, but those of the ground. Dirt." stated the warrior as he took another drink of the jug before sitting it down respectfully.

Lu Rai, who most would have thought was caught in awe just nodded his understanding of the command and stepped back away from the chair, signally to Wei Yan that he was ready to leave whenever his lord saw fit. Though the warrior hadn't completely forgot his manners. Bowing politely to the maiden he sighed a bit.

"I'm sorry to have been so blunt in your presence. I hope I have not offended you too thoroughly. Heaven's blessing."

[Ayden (Retired)]

Now this certainly was interesting. The room went silent, the music had stopped playing. Xing Cai's eyes opened slowly as she finished her wine. She could feel trembles to the side of her, it was Yan Xing. The man was shaking with anger. The man had shot out of his seat and defended his lord's honour. Xing Cai though heard her name being mentioned in the supposed rude accusations. She kind of blinked as if she was in pain, you know, when you kind of scrunch your eyes up when someone twists your ankle. Thankfully though, the subject was taken off her as Ma Chao had calmed down his subordinate.

The talk of ruling China made Xing Cai think. Did Liu Bei wish to rule China? He never proclaimed the want to, but the officers around him certainly wanted to uplift him to a ruling position.

Xing Cai suddenly felt the urge to speak about her Lord. Gaining the courage to lift her voice, and also denying the promise to not mention anything political at her visit. She raised her voice.

"Lord Liu Bei does not wish to rule over China. He wishes that it is restored to the Han dynasty." Stopping, she reluctantly began to express her own opinions. "Though I don't agree with the Han dynasty, or any of its principles, I do know that Liu Bei is in it for the people, not himself. I am sure Lord Ma Chao feels the same, that he simply wishes to give his people a better home...like his father would had done." Suddenly Xing Cai realised she had spoken about his father. She knew of all the things, this was a touchy subject...

(OOC, Was a tad short on time. Sorry if it lacks quality.)

[Ma Chao]

The lord of Chan An would have to learn that there was a time to speak out and a time to listen. The latter was much more important right now, especially considering personal safety. Wei Yan was either infinitely brave or ultimately stupid and he was dancing upon the fine line, teetering toward death with every word which spewed from his mouth.

Ma Chao before was being quite reasonable, one would think, taking instant questions of his true intentions as soon as the banquet commenced. Instead of the guests being able to enjoy themselves, the fine music perhaps, they were now all on edge wondering at what point Mengqi would order Yan's end. However, the young lord showed incredible resilience under the pressure of Wei Yan who was clearly against him.

If the banquet would serve any true purpose, it would be to see where the two stood. So far, it seemed to be head to head like two rams fighting for supremacy.

One could wonder why Ma Chao did not act in his usual fashion. Could the ruler have known something that his guests did not? Was his relaxed manner due to some event he had already planned out? An interesting thought, indeed.

"Lord Wei Yan, my suggestion to you is that you sit back down with your comrade. I am not done speaking and i have one more thing to discuss with you."

Ma Chao ignored all the previous banter of Yan and decided to start anew. Though now, he was growing increasingly annoyed and leaned in with his elbows upon the table. The talk of all the other kingdoms and their warriors made Chao want to laugh, but he was far past humor.

The palace doors closed and armed guards moved to block the exit. They also moved closer to their lord, though another raise of Mengqi's hand would halt them.

Throughout all the commotion, especially when Wei Yan seemed to be leaving, Fu Lan was soaking wet in perspiration and he was clearly uncomfortable due to how the situation was unfolding. Ma Chao had noticed the change, even before Wei Yan's outbursts, but he also knew something else about Lan.

Everyone at the table were now wondering what would happen next. If Wei Yan refused to sit, he would never leave the city of Xi Liang again. That was an order from the King of the land and whether or not Yan was a lord himself, he was at the mercy of the Golden Horde. Comply or die, it was simple as that.

"I have something here that i would like to read to you."

Ma Chao reached into his armor, behind his chest plate close to his chest, and pulled forth a note. At that moment, Fu Lan turned as white as a ghost. He knew that time was running out and he needed to act, not only to live but so that Xi Liang would be free of Ma Chao!

In Fu Lan's left hand was a small dagger, hidden under his long-sleeve robe, and he prepared to strike. The problem was, his lord was ready.

As if time slowed down, for such a cowardly act, the dagger could be seen racing through the air. The gleaming tip ahead of the hand that pushed it, moving quickly with deadly intent to pierce Ma Chao and end his rule.

Ma Chao's eyes shifted and he moved to his right showing his youth and agility. The warrior's reflexes were almost unmatched as he was one of the more prevalent duelist of the times. Why Fu Lan would think, being a weakling politician, that he could ever kill Mengqi would be a question asked at his burial ceremony.

If the guests were not sure what was going on, they would have a moment to realize as the loud thud of the dagger into Ma Chao's chair sounded throughout the hall. Following that would be a much worse noise, one of a bone snapping.

The young lord grabbed Fu Lan's arm with his left hand while the dagger was still in the assailant's grasp. He then brought down his armored right arm and gauntlet onto Lan's forearm, crushing the frail official's limb like a twig!

Fu Lan was pushed away from Ma Chao and he turned to Wei Yan for aid.

"Lord Yan, now is that time i spoke of! Please!"

Everyone at the banquet would probably still be puzzled at just what the hell was going on, but people closer to the situation would figure it out rapidly. Yan Xing unsheathed his blade and so did every guard in the hall, numbering around 10 in total. Not only that, generals at the table rose and pulled swords ready to kill given the command.

Was Wei Yan and Fu Lan plotting to kill Ma Chao? It made perfect sense.

"You are pathetic! Do you think i did not know your feelings for me? Maybe you were treated like a worthless dog because you are one!" Ma Chao screamed, now ready to kill everyone in the audience hall. He reached out for his spear to which two attendants ran over. Grabbing the weapon, feeling the familiar weight and balance, he whipped it around and the associated sound from the blade cutting wind made Fu Lan piss himself.

Ma Chao's head and glare shot to his right, looking right at Wei Yan who probably had no clue what was going on. Or, did he?

"I specifically chose you to send the invitation to Lord Yan and instructed the messenger to return it to me. Your words are clear, asking Yan for aid when the time was right. At this banquet perhaps?"

Mengqi started to laugh a bit. Thinking of how perfect this situation truly was. He had Wei Yan and his famed comrade trapped inside Xi Liang palace with clear intentions of assassinating Ma Chao. What was also quite humorous to the lord, was that he thought Yan was smarter than that. Was he that crazed or the ultimate battlefield berserker that he could kill Mengqi, Yan Xing, and all the military men present? Unlikely.

The young leader could eliminate his opponent, here and now, without having to march his massive army against Chang An.

"We can rule the land together? You would unite the land of China, Fu Lan? Your following would be four or five drunkards with pitchforks!" Mengqi barked, reading from the copy he obtained of Fu Lan's note to Wei Yan. He ordered one of his guards to hand over their blade and he threw it down at Lan's feet.

"It takes might and skill to win in battle! You, old friend, possess neither!"

Yan Xing moved toward the doors of the hall, where Wei Yan and Lu Rai were standing. He just shook his head in disgust, thinking of how the supposed great leader of Chang An would be so cowardly.

"What words do you have, oh glorious lord of Chang An, before this traitor is killed and most likely you along with him!"

Ma Chao looked to Wei Yan for an answer as Fu Lan pleaded for mercy. He did not want to pick up the weapon, knowing he would be cut down with ease.

"Pick it up!" the leader exclaimed.

[Mr Nor]

((I gotta do this fast, so pardon me for lack of usual length.))

Zhou Tai stood in the room he was staying in at ZI Liang. As he examined his garb, he sighed to himself. He wore a crimson red dublet, accented with black threads and designs. The pants he wore were black as well, and he looked like quiet the diplomat... something Zhou Tai wasn't used to. As he walked towards the banquet hall, he felt naked without his weapon, his armor... even without his companion Zei Fang. As he entered the banquet hall, all was quiet. He knew it wasn't for him, since all eyes were on Wei Yan. Someone stood up, protesting whatever Wei Yan had said, but then Ma Chao began to speak, giving his regards to the gretaness of Wei, Shu, and of course, Wu. but then...

heh. Ma Chao thinks he can rule all of China? Please...

As he lidtened to everyone speak, Zhou Tai took his turn. "My, my, my... this looks like quiet the party. However, Wei Yan and Cing Cai do bring up valid points." he said as he walked forward. If people did not know him by the sight of his scars, they would know him by his bellowing baritone.

"Please, Lord Ma Chao, I ask forgiveness for the bluntness with which I am about to speak, but a ruler of your... 'stature' deserves nothing less then the unadulterated truth. Wei Yan speaks of attempting to rule China, and to be perfectly honest, I would not be shocked if he succeeded. Would you like to know why?" he said as he took a glass of white wine. "Unlike you, master Chao, Wei Yan, Xing Cai, and myself were all present against Dong Zhuo. Wei Yan was essentially the one who rallied the allied army. People follow him because they respect him. the people of Shu follow Liu Bei for the same reason. Wu follows me because they respect me, as well for what I stand for; keeping Wu together in this time of crisis. you, however... what do you stand for, Master Chao? Do the people respect you... or do they fear you?" He explained, speaking with unexpected eloquence, emphases on the necessary syllables, and even used his handsa a little bit while talking. Sure, he was not the most charismatic person ever, but hey, this wasn't bad from someone like Zhou Tai.

"However, I must say that Wei Yan plotting to kill you in such an unhonorable way as this is quiet unexpected. One would even suggest that it was false. Wei Yan is a powerful ruler, as well as a powerful warrior. If he wanted you dead, he would simply call you out in one-on-one, unbriddled combat. I assume Fu Lan simply... didn't want to go down alone.

"Now, onto the real reason I attended this banquet, other than the delightful conversation and the entertaining acts of stupidity on certain peoples parts," he said, eyeing Fu Lan disgustedly, "Wei Yan, if I may have a moment...?" he asked, motioning towards Wei Yan. He gave Wei Yan a look that said "the further away from Ma Chao at this point, the better."

"

[Ayden (Retired)]

Her eyes watched Fu Lan as the man made shifty movements. What was he doing? Suddenly, the shine and gleam of metal appeared as a knife was drawn. Xing Cai's first reaction was to grab the nearest weapon, which was a soldier's sword who was sitting right next to her. Holding the blade menacingly, she didn't realize what she was doing. She wanted to kill Fu Lan and Wei Yan, Ma Chao was a good man, why did they want him dead?

Holding the blade in a ready to strike position, the princess of Shu almost wanted to strike at Wei Yan...and this newcomer. Zhou Tai of Wu. Xing Cai had heard enough of the slander against Ma Chao's name, she raised her voice highly, demanding that attention be drawn to her.

"You! You selfish rats! You are just like every other man out there! Ma Chao has done nothing wrong, and yet you conspire to kill him. And even when you proclaim you don't, you treat him with such a neglect that could be compared to a bully! He is a fierce lion! A man, who has lost his father, but still retains the spirit and the pride of the king of all beasts. You are pathetic! All of you! Ma Chao is a righteous and just man, and you all spit on the ground where he walks!"

(OOC, Had to say he had JUSTICE)

[Mr Nor]

Zhou Tai eyes her carefully, taking her in. "Would you prefer it if we spoke this way behind his backs? I slander him not, Lady Cai. I respect his power enough not to talk behind his back like a simple commoner. We, as leaders, should respect each other enough to speak this way infront of one another. In my oppinion, of course." he said just soft enough for everyone to hear. He eyed her blade carefully. True, he was probably a better swordsman, but a swordsman without a sword was like a falcon without talons...

[Wei Yan]

A time of change had come. A man of poor morals and self-respect, Fu Lan, had crawled to him for hope. Zhou Tai, The Steward of Wu, had came to his defense ever so randomly, but it was well welcomed. Though, the worst of the all was the stab that Xing Cai had dealt him. Dog? Worthless? Am I? Is this what the warriors of Shu think of me? Guan Yu... Is this what your sworn brother tells his daughter?, thought Wei Yan as he watched everything unfolding so rapidly. He had never moved, except to cross his arms over his chest for a moment as he watched Fu Lan crawl.

It took only a second, for a brisk moment one would of though Wei Yan was going to step to Fu Lan's aid, but then it changed quickly. The warrior stepped up, maybe inches away from Fu Lan's face and let out a roar that could shake stones out of walls.

Then he spoke, his voice so savage, gruff, ruthless some might say that it could only be concluded he was sorely offended and in pure hate of this Fu Lan. "Coward! You dare try to lump be into your ploy! No honorable man assassinates! The Ravager of Courage fears no man on the battlefield! To the depths of Hades with you!!"

Then, warrior was back to standing beside his companion who seemed to be thoroughly disgusted with the gesture as well. Though, his gaze fell to Xing Cai most of all. This... This... This warrior-maiden he had some respect for had now just belittled a man that held her ruler on high! Hell! Wei Yan had go so far as put his neck on the line to defend the people of Shu, and she had taken a cheap shot his pride! Ta hell with that wench, was the thought that echoed across Lu Rai's mind as he scowled at the woman.

Though there were blades out left and right and people staring Wei Yan down as an enemy, neither him nor his companion made a move for a weapon.

"You brandish arms against me, lordling? Do you think me your enemy? I have not come to kill, do you see an army? I came in peace. I came unarmed. Hell! I even dressed up for your feast, and you think I mean to kill you? If I wanted you dead, I would have brought my army. I would have layed siege to his grand city. I would have dueled and carried your head on my spear! Now is not a time for war! We are here in peace! Now, you'd do well to lower your weapons, less you wish me and my companion to draw ours."

Then the warrior was silent and Lu Rai stood stalwart, his hands over his chest as a sign of non-aggression. Once his words had sank in he began to speak again.

"I will not be seated though. I do my speaking upright and honorably. I feel as a child when I speak. I am a man, a warrior, I will stand, facing that which I speak to, my chin hard and proud. I do not hold your seating against you, why hold my standing against me?" Wei Yan had softend his voice as much as he could. He was trying to talk sincere, though the constant thought of being lumped in with that coward just made his blood boil.

Finally, while standing silent he nodded his thanks to Zhou Tai, also he gave a warrior's grin to show he understood that the Steward wished to talk. Sadly, now just wasn't the time to change conversations.

[Ma Chao]

Other than the fact that Fu Lan tried to kill him, Ma Chao was enjoying himself so far and it seemed the banquet was worth it. It served a dual purpose, which will be described in a moment, but right now the thoughts swirling around the young leader's mind were of Xing Cai's actions. He smirked as the female warrior drew her blade in defense of his name and deep down he wondered if she was on the right side. The Golden Horde could use someone with her skill though Liu Bei was certainly the favorite currently to unite China. She most likely would stay in Shu along with her father, Zhang Fei. It mattered little, when all was said and done, as Ma Chao needed only his trusted spear and comrade.

Yan Xing stood, weapon drawn, facing Zhou Tai and the two guests from Chang An. He looked to his left and smirked, noting Xing Cai's response to all of the insults flying around. It seemed Wei Yan was starting to move from respected warrior to more of a maniac. Even the most skilled and proud warriors would realized that they would be doomed if persisting on crossing the line or taking to many steps toward the cliff's edge. Thousands of soldiers were inside the city, many of them Mengqi's own Elite Dragon Cavalry, so there was little chance at escape even if they made it out of the palace alive.

Back to the dual purpose of the banquet.......

One, now Ma Chao could see Wei Yan's true colors though the warrior of Chang An would claim it was the other way around. By ranting so much he revealed multiple weaknesses, to which Ma Chao took note, but he also showed his genuine dislike for the ruler as well. It seemed Yan was more concerned about the slandering of his so called friends than his own people. Starting war with the Cavalry King was not something one wished to do and many of Wei Yan's army, along with civilians possible, would be slain.

Two, Fu Lan was revealed as the corrupt politician in Mengqi's council. He was the one that was leaking information about supply convoys to the Qiang for side pay. Truly, he was a lowly scum who aided in the slaughtering of Xi Liang merchants and peasants. What was interesting though, was that Ma Chao knew Lan's intentions since the meeting with the Qiang King. The lord of the barbarians informed Mengqi of Fu Lan's doings and using that the young leader ordered the corrupt envoy to send word for Wei Yan.

However, it seemed the battlefield berserker was true to his words. He was no coward or assassin and did his dirty work on the field of war, no where else. Fu Lan tried to use him for aid in a failed assassination attempt, putting the ruler of Chang An in danger for the politician's own greed. He was lucky Wei Yan did not kill him right there and then.

After all was said and done, it seemed war loomed over the horizon. The so called ruler of the southeast, in place of a real man, had arrived to offer Wei Yan some support though it was quite foolish and horrible timing. He arrived at the worse possible time and on top of that almost signed his own death certificate for speaking so......bluntly.

Ma Chao liked being straight to the point, but still Yan Xing hated the disrespect coming from the visitors. Where was their warrior's etiquette he wondered?

"I believe you are a hard man, Wei Yan, but to a fault. One day, that tongue of yours will get you killed" the young lord stated, turning his keen gaze toward the berserker who had just roared in Fu Lan's face. Attendants in the room were hiding behind pillars in fear of the animal.

"I agree though, that speaking should be done through actions on the field of battle! That is where we will meet and where you shall die!"

Mengqi pointed his spear at Wei Yan and then ordered his guards to escort the two warriors of Glory and that of Wu out of the city before they were killed. Yan Xing moved toward Xing Cai and asked her to walk with him to the barracks where her horse was located. It seems her time at Xi Liang was cut short by rude guests, but she would be welcome back as long as Shu and the Golden Horde were at peace.

Armed guards showed all the guests out of the palace as the cries of Fu Lan could be heard from within the hall. If Yan or Tai looked back, they would see into the future to look upon their own demise!

Ma Chao's locked glare at Wei Yan finally gave way and it shifted back toward Fu Lan who was begging for his life to be spared. A guard was moving in for support, near the banquet table, and he bumped into a wine cup with his heavy armor. Lan's eyes locked on the liquid pouring out as the cup fell over and began its journey to the floor. Symbolic it was, of the moment, because as soon as Lan looked back toward Ma Chao the blade of his lord's spear was already racing through the air to sever his head!

Fu Lan has been slain for trying to assassinate Ma Chao and due to the events it seemed was was inevitable between the northwest kingdoms!