Arrival of the Horde - Battle Thread

[Wei Yan]

Yeah, Another Last Samurai Song

Back to Qi Ning Pass. Back to the final stand of the allies against the monster that was the Golden Horde. It wasn't long into the retreat that Wei Yan caught sight of more morale lifting sights. There was the banner of T'se, Wu, and even Wei. It seemed all of China gathered at Qi Ning Pass to aid the leader of Glory, all but Shu.

"My friend.. Guan Yu.. You never came..?" whispered the warrior to himself as he thought about the sights he'd seen before leaving. Shu banners under the command of Xing Cai had arrived. "Liu Bei, this rumored man of virtue sends aid to Ma Chao the Splendid...?"

That didn't matter now though, he had to make ready for the battle. There were rolling hills and bits of mountain on the way to the pass, but what caught the warrior's eye was the small patch of forest to the east side. A smile crept over the warriors face. His new unit of soldiers came marching out of the hills of pass, awaiting orders. Moving up he sent word around the army as quietly as possible.

"Move through the trees, find a good place to hide and lay low. We wait for the right time to strike." spoke the Lord of Glory, while the army moved over to the trees and took up hiding as best they could. Lordling, I will see your head on a pike before the day is done, thought the warrior as he hid behind a bit of shrubbyer, instinctively rubbing the headband wrapped around his bicep.

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

Wei Yan and his troop of men take up hiding in the trees to await the Golden Horde.

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

Commanded Army:

400 Spear and Shield Elites
200 Mounted Sword and Shield Veterans
200 Twin Axe Milita

[Eshmunbaal]

Eshmunbaal would make sure he was one of the first on the field of battle. He wouldn't make his stand behind the gates of Qing Ni pass, but in front of it. Carthage had a strong military history, with many tactics pertaining to harassing the enemy troops. In this battle, such tactics would prove hard to pull of, unless Eshmunbaal could get his men to move out right now and take some of his enemies down. Surely these chinamen had never heard of any Carthaginian tactics and would be caught by surprise.

Eshmunbaal's current army was small, he did not feel like losing all his men in one battle. Only a small Carthaginian force was present, and it would prove to be enough.

Troops:

100 Sacred Band of Carthage (Elite/ horse spear shield) (battle troops)
200 Balaeric mercenaries (veteran/ horse bow) (battle troops)
100 Iberian infantry (militia/ sword shield) (battle troops)
200 Libyan spearmen (veteran/ spear shield) (personal troops)

Eshmunbaal placed his troops in a simple defensive formation, fifty or so metres in front of the gate. His Libyan spearmen would have to go through the heat of battle. They were split into two groups, One group of 120 at the front, standing in three lines of fourty next to eachothers. The other 80 stood several metres behind the first three lines, in two lines of fourty. The first 120 would remain in a at ease formation for now, but would change into something similar to a phalanx when the enemy approached. Their main purpose to stand their ground and keep the enemy at bay.

On each side of the Libyans was a group of 25 Iberian infantry to cover their flanks. In a square 5x5 formation, they were guarding the flanks of the spearmen. 50 more Iberian infantry stood behind the second group of Libyan spearmen, ready to help out where needed. About twenty metres behind these Iberians stood a proud host of the Sacred Band of Carthage. These elites were the best Carthage had to offer. If Eshmunbaal's lines would crumble, the enemy would be forced to face these men in battle, and death was sure to follow in their wake.

For the time being, in between the Iberians and Sacred Band, there were 200 balaeric horsebowmen. Eshmunbaal took his bow and lead them around his defensive formation to stand in front of it. When the first enemy units appeared, these men would be the first to head out under the personal leadership of Eshmunbaal. But for the time being, they waited...

[Liu Shan]

"What?.. Oh no." Ma Chao had fought his way to Qing Ni? Huang Hao would have to lead and now he was being given more troops, Shan would have much to praise for this inconvenience. However, the Eunuch was forgetting that Shan could have been found by Shu, they weren't here after all. "Oh. Crap" Looking to his men Hao let out a some what disheartened sigh, what was he to do? Shout like the others and point the jian in a certain direction? "Erm, men? It seems that Lord Wei was not strong enough to fend off the attacks of the child Ma Chao. So, we'll have to help. Ready?" Huang Hao's words were not placing any fire within the troops bodies, they stood their ground refusing to move; especially after such a pathetic attempt at leading. This made the Eunuch nervous, if he could not get the men to actually move then his name would be discredited and then his words would not be taken so seriously; that would not be!

As more and more troops were ordered to join Hao's unit, he started to give up on this order and march home. The young Liu was easily lead astray, his child-like mind not knowing truth from lies. The Eunuch began to smile, he could take his leave of this place and merely plead apologies to Shan for being routed; yes! 'My dear Lord, forgive me.. The Heavens did not shine upon your humble protector, I was routed by Lord Ma and his fierce allies... I barely escaped with my life!". That was the plan, now all Hao had to do was turn round and ride away from these men; there impatience becoming slightly worrying. However, as the grey gelding turned its body to face the opposite direction of the battle, Huang Hao noticed something approaching them... A being, wearing green robes?.. Liu Bei?! No!. "Wh-what? He's here? No!" The unit did not look very big, compared to the numbers that Hao was given; if he 'accidently' mistook him for being the enemy... The Eunuch could crush that Liu into the ground, genius!

"It's Lord Liu Shan! The young son of Shu has arrived with some of his own men!" The face in which Hao expressed was something to see, his astonishment was shared by most people that looked in that direction. Liu Shan, the boy who the heavens had forgotten; many believing him to be a coward and quite the stupid fool. "What is he doing here?" The Eunuch was a little angered, if Shu did arrive then they would try to bring a divide between himself at Shan. The young boy had determination placed upon his visage, presenting the world that he was indeed the son of Liu Bei; though he held no strength or wit, his courage was that of any dragon. Behind the young Liu followed some loyal militia of his own troops, Shan's eyes were worried not entirely sure why he journeyed out so far where the possibility of death was so high. But, Shan had plans of his own, Shu warriors would surely be here and that meant his father could speak the truth; so he hoped.

"My Lord! Why journey to this battle? You sent me on your behalf." Shan took a deep breath, Hao was right, he had no place here but this could be the chance for a change in reputation... For people to see that Liu Shan was capable of atleast something. The men in his unit joined those that were placed under the leadership of the Eunuch, secretly quite relieved that if things went badly it would be the Son of Shu getting the blame than himself. "I have to prove myself, w-without experience... I w-will not learn." Hao could not help but smile at Shan's bravery to come here, the men could see this too; the shere determination was some what inspiring for them. "These men follow and rely on me. I can no-will not let them fall."

Shan's hands began to shake a little, it was clear this young man that held a child's mind was terrified, though something was stopping him from fleeing; the power of the Dragon within him. The Eunuch smiled and took his place by his lord, the man far happier that Liu Shan was here than being led by some man without testicals... Call himself a man, pah! For the first time Shan took hold of his mace, 'Regal' a gift from Huang Hao; more of a 'bribery', some would say. It's vibrate green colouring made many to stare upon the glistening weapon, there was some amazement that Liu Shan was wielding any form of weapon at all. "I hope that the Heavens grant me any power they see fit, to h-help you with fighting M-Ma Chao." As the young Liu's eyes broke from the bright colours and onto his now eager men, Shan forced a smile onto his lips. "The l-loyalty you show me... I will r-repay it with my o-own."

Shan's words came to a stop as a force, that matched his own in number, travelled across his right. Their men, they looked so strange and their leader. The young Liu became in awe of the battle garb and even the Leader's facial features that were clearly not of this land. Huang Hao on the other hand, was some what disgusted that they would appear at this battle. "What the hell are they?.. This is not their battle, they should stay out of our business." Their leader, he had so much strength over his men and they did not question anything he spoke of.. What did he say to them? "Hao, a friend is still a friend." How naive the Eunuch thought, but tommorrow that 'thing' could be an enemy. Shan was too kind to tell Hao to keep his tongue from insulting others he did not know, it was not fair. "H-his leadership... S-strength... Do you think it could m-match my father's?" Taken back by such a question, Huang Hao gestured for his statement to be nonsence; the poisonous tongue sharpening once again. "Your father is nothing but a turtle turned onto it's shell; pointless and useless.. Merely flailing about waiting to be eaten."

Shan was drawn to this man, the white gelding he sat upon moved at his master's orders. The troops followed, sensing this was an order without words; on the other hand, Hao was rather confused in what his Lord was doing. "W-we shall protect this man's r-rear flank." What?! Hao was now worried, Shan was now leading the men into battle?... Liu Shan?! This boy has courage, perhaps too much; however, it was the aura of the foriegner that truely did it. To have that kind of strength over men and have others not question him or his orders. Shan's unit came to a halt as it positioned itself behind the walls of Qing Ni pass, the young Liu still staring at the man in true awe. "W-we can not do a-anything from here. L-let us m-move... P-protect his r-rear f-flank." Huang Hao took out his jian, only wishing it would drive itself into Shan's forehead for bringing him into war. Unphased the young Liu lead the unit slowly out of the Pass and took a defensive formation behind Eshmunbaal's unit, who were already placing devastation onto the enemy with some strange tactics. "M-magnificent." Liu Shan's unit stood firm as they did as he ordered - 'p-protect his r-rear f-flank'. Waiting for any form of orders from either another lord or Liu Shan himself, the young son of Shu continued to watch as Eshmunbaal brought chaos onto the enemy. With one glance at Shan's face, Eshmunbaal could read what he was doing and of course, that he had gained a keen follower already; even if the Eunuch Huang Hao disliked the idea...

Troops:
100 Elites (Mace & Shield)
200 Veterans (Axe & Shield)
100 Militia (Sword & Shield)
200 Militia (Spear & Shield)


- Liu Shan has arrived!!
- Liu Shan has formed outside the gate of Qing Ni Pass and has begun to 'protect' the rear flank of Eshmunbaal!

[Huang Zhong]

Huang Zhong's Forces

100 Elite Pikes (battle troops)
200 Veteran Sword and Shield (battle troops)
100 Militia Crossbow (battle troops)
200 Elite Bows (personal troops)

As soon as the foreign general arrived to reinforce the gate, a second figure made himself known. Huang Zhong was now ready for action once more, his units more numerous and fresh. The setting sun cast it's glow upon the old man, and those who looked upon him did so in awe. Though he was aged, he appeared as a grand warrior with a determined look upon his face, his brightly colored green battle robes making him stand out amongst all the rest. It was as if all those present were gazing upon a War God. It was clearly obvious that this old man had lost none of his vigor, strength, and skill as he had gotten older. In fact, one could say that these traits had grown, aging like a fine wine.

The troops he had brought were much more numerous then those he had brought with him when he had fought at Chang An. They were more varied as well. Steel blades could be seen, as well as the ever familiar unit that Huang Zhong was proud of; his Elite Bowmen, each and every one personally trained by the old man himself. They were all dead set and determined to stop the enemy here, and to stop Ma Chao from trampling through the pass. The tales Huang Zhong had told of Chang An had only served to bolster their resolve to stop this menace once and for all, before this wretch who called himself "Ma Chao the Splendid" pillaged and looted their homes.

"Men! It is here, on this pass, that we completely and utterly destroy the Golden Horde! Failure is not an option! Though we are few, we have strong allies who have our backs, and we are men of T'se! We will not give the enemy the satisfaction of winning!!"

A loud cheer came from his unit, and they began to to get into position. Only half of the actual troops would be stationed upon the walls; the rest would be behind the gate, awaiting the enemy should the happen to breach the walls. The Elite Bows formed ranks behind the gate, ready to pelt those who would get near with arrows. The Elite Pikes were stationed behind the bowmen, and were to advance and form a wall of steel to prevent the enemy from advancing, especially those on horseback. The Veteran Sword and Shield units were positioned along the walls, should the enemy ever manage to scale the, and Miltia Crossbows were also stationed alongside them, directly above the gate. All was ready.

His preparations done, Huang Zhong made his way to the walls with his swordsmen and Crossbows, his sharp eyes gazing out to the horizon. Should the enemy approach, he would raise the alrm personally.

Summary

-Huang Zhong has arrived!
-Huang Zhong has set up defenses along the wall and behind the gate!
-Huang Zhong is keeping on eye out for the massive armies of The Golden Horde!

[Eshmunbaal]

It did not take long before another force made its way upon the battlefield. Not only that, but they took up formation behind Eshmunbaal, apparently set on blocking other armies their path through the gate. That was not the only thing Eshmunbaal wondered about.

He turned his horse around to face towards the gate and after saying a single word to the Balaeric mercenaries, rode forward. As he did, the rows of horsebowmen and spearmen in front of him opened up to allow him passage without being given a single order. The Sacred Band member did so too, but instead of going back into formation after letting Eshmunbaal through, ten of them followed suit as a bodyguard unit as he approached Liu Shan's army. Eshmunbaal would head directly for Liu Shan, who he recognized as being the one in charge simply because he was sitting atop a horse, unlike the men he had brought with him. "I am Eshmunbaal, general of Carthage." he introduced himself. Before letting anyone say anything he'd continue on to more important matters.

"I am sure you know spearmen are more usefull at the front of an army. Why do we not join our two armies together for this battle, and make sure our enemies will remember us when they crawl back home in a most cowardly manner. It will surely be good for morale, and will make both our forces stronger then before.", as he said these things Eshmunbaal could see that Liu Shan was not a very experienced man, more like a child who had no idea what war was like. His men seemed to suffer because of it, suffer of having no true leadership. A combined effort would surely lift their spirits up, and make them more capable fighters. Eshmunbaal now only hoped that his own men wouldn't suffer from it.

[Cao Pi]

Gongsun Zan's men prepared the defenses, as best as a mounted man could. Zan himself paced back and forth within his personal tent, Guan Shao at his side, moving pieces around on a piece of map parchment.

He was moving his pieces through possible outcomes, and all lead to him having very few choices in fighting the enemy. Zan was smart though; he wouldn't use his cavalry as stupidly and bravely as he had before. No, this enemy was one that was also good at cavalry charges, and his own cavalry would be the ones meeting them on the field first.

Zan decided thusly; he would send Guan Shao out to lead a cavalry charge first, before the enemy had time to create to much of a foothold at the pass. No; Zan would not allow them to get to the gates so easily. He would retain but a small portion of his forces. He was saddened that he himself would not be leading the troops, but, as an old man, his place was not always in so precarious of a position.

He was helping Shao get this armor on, his weapons ready. He was set to look exactly like Gongsun Zan, except in age, though on the field of battle, the two would be uncannily similar. Zan stifled a tear at seeing his young apprentice rush off to a most certain doom.

"Glory is counting on you."

"I know. I'm scared."

"As am I. You will do fine though."

"It was good knowing you."

"And I you. I am eternally proud of you."

"Thank you."

They embraced, a fatherly hug, and Guan Shao went on his way. Whether or not he would return, it would remain to be seen...

Outside the Gate

Guan Shao gripped the reins. He was now in charge of a large white Mastiff, much like Gongsun Zan's, but not his own. This one was a bit more expendable, Zan's own horse to perfect for the Old man to be risked in this move.

Shao was in charge of the entire Horse division sent by Gongsun Zan. Zan himself kept only a detachment of archers and a few horsemen of his own. He was prepared. He looked about and saw only a few people straggling back. Would he be the only person trying to slow down the enemy?

He sure as hell hoped not.

Gongsun Zan has given over Command of his army to Guan Shao!

Guan Shao, accompanied by the full Cavalry compliment under Gongsun Zan's control, has gone outside to meet his foes head on! A foolish quest or a saving roll?

Who shall be brave enough to join the tactician in his charge?

100 Spear and Shield Horse Elites (Gongsun Zan)
200 Lance Horse Veterans
100 Sword and Shield Horse Militia
100 Spear Shield and Horse Elites
100 Horsebow Veterans (Gongsun Zan)

[Liu Shan]

The strange man had noticed Shan, though not too hard to do, but began to make his way from his army and headed directly for the young Liu. Quite nervous Shan was in mere awe of this man, he could speak the same tongue as him? Such talent. Bowing his head continuously as he spoke, Shan looked to his men and they clearly took the orders of Eshmunbaal; the spears moved to the front of the unit. "Thank you Lord Esh-man-baal." The name was quite hard to say, though Liu Shan made quite an impressive effort to say it. Hao did not like the idea of having Liu Shan work alongside with this man, but it would be best for now as the two combined couldn't even lead the unit.

The unit under the son of Shu moved into formation that would not block the gates; while joining up with Eshmunbaal's unit in such a way that would not get in their way. Their tactics were some what strange and not knowing what they would do next, Shan's men made sure they could be in the proximity to defend while staying out of their way. "L-lord Esh-mun-baal. I am L-Liu Shan." The nervous lord took a deep breath, conjuring every piece of courage his child-like self could muster. "L-let us dominate the b-battlefield" With a smile the young Liu started to gain his confidence, it seemed being with Eshmunbaal was doing the young Lord good; perhaps his strength was inspirational to him. The prowess would be good for his own men, just as he used onto his own and they did everything with precision and brute strength.

Taking his place the Eunuch prepared himself behind Shan, he would hear about this combination when the battle was over. However, if Liu Shan learned more then it would benefit him too and also gain much respect for the young Liu.

- Liu Shan has moved to unblock the gates of Qing Ni pass!
- Liu Shan is now working with Eshmunbaal, staying his distance so his unit was not in the way!

[Eshmunbaal]

So it was that Liu Shan joined together with Eshmunbaal's men. Eshmunbaal's 120 spearmen stayed at the front tough, and Liu Shan's men would have to join in line with the reserve spearmen behind the first lines. Maybe seeing the first spearmen fight would inspire the men from china to use the same tactics. Eshmunbaal could only hope, as the men Liu Shan had brough with him seemed unacostumed to war.

"It is nice to meet you Liu Shan", Eshmunbaal said, his accent still extremely rough, "I suggest you have your swordmen cover the flank, and leave your axes and macemen to stay at the center of the formation, so they may can be sent in should the line begin to crumble. It is always best to keep as much of your men as fresh as possible, so they can be an even greater weapon in the heat of battle."

As Eshmunbaal said this he noticed Gongsun Zan sallying with his men. "If you'll excuse me, I have plans for the enemy. I will return before the enemy gets here.", Eshmunbaal said, waiting a while for a response from Liu Shan, before leaving him in the capable hands of his Sacred Band members who were now once again at the back of the formation. He joined up with his Balaeric mercenaries and moved out to ride in aid of Gongsun Zan's force. They seemed like they were up to comething good...

-Eshmunbaal and 200 horsebows ride out after Gongsun Zan
-The rest of Eshmunbaal's force remains in formation.

[Mr ~Traptz~]

The Plan Of Invasion, An Evil Deception...

They moved fast, and swiftly. Though unmounted they made good time. The had had to come all the way from Jiang Ling. There was roughly six hundred of them. The commander doubted he would make a large impact, but he would do what he could. Within several minutes of trekking through the mountain pass, the beginnings of a raging battle could be heard.

The group of men stopped. They all began to tighten up armor, readjusted breast plates and loosen swords. Shields were taken off of backs, bows were strung, and arrows knocked. The commander was finishing off tightening his wrist guards as another came up alongside him. Neither spoke a word. They each knew why they were here.

The first man turned to the mass of soldiers behind him. They were all eager, and ready. These men knew what they were doing. Only this time they fought something different. They didn't fight for money, they fought for themselves.

"You men. Though you fight for nothing but your own survival today. And for once we are on the defensive. Our opponent is large, and strong. They have good leaders, and able warriors. They may even have barbarian allies. We will be outnumbered and out matched. It seems a lost cause. But remember back to Dong Zhou. The regional lords banded together. Perhaps that may happen again today." He turned back toward the pass. "But I do say this to you. Fight, with all the rage and anger you can muster. Defend our sacred land. Defend China from these northern barbarians. Crush the enemy. Send them fleeing." He raised his sword into the air, and cried out; "We may be out numbered, but know this; Your destiny, is to win. Now go forth, and kill everyman who dares invade our land. Songs and stories shall ever more be spoken of in your name." His men cried out loud. The ground shook beneath their cries and rattles of armor and weapons. The defenders and attackers would know of their coming.

The small army began to charge forth, ready to slam through the allied gates and into the thick of the assault, ready to single handedly lift the siege if necessary. No matter what happened, Wei Yan, Lord of Glory, should know that Zhang Ren was on his side, until the death, if necessary, for his chance against Ma Chao.

Troops

200 Elite Sword and Shield
100 Elite Bowmen
200 Veteran Spearmen
100 Militia Spear and Swordmen

[Yu Xueman]

Xueman had already brought her men outside the gate, and from Ma she surveyed them with still, peaceful eyes. The initial chaos of emotion that she had experienced upon her arrival had subsided, and in it's wake it had left an officer, cool, calm, collected, ready for battle. Dangerous. She was what she had hoped she would become before the attack, a leader. Her narrowed eyes scanned the field before them, where Ma Chao would approach from, and the positions of the others, making ready. Not many had found their permanent spots yet, most still settling, and she nodded to herself deciding on good location to lead her men. They were silent as she lead them forward, essentially to the frontlines as it were.

Stopping at the edge of the hilly land in the pass, opposite the grove of trees that Wei Yan had holed up in she turned to her men and nodded. It was a good position. Wei Yan's seemed to be setting his men up for a sneak attack of sorts, and, with any luck, Xueman's group would provide enough diversion for that to happen. But that would only do if her men could garner the attention of Ma Chao's hordes. In their current condition they were restless, as was she to a certain extent. Nervous glances were exchanged among them and she could only relate. But it would not do for them to be frightened or hesitating.

"We have come much too far to turn back now! It is glory that we seek, and now is our very chance to attain that glory! Our names will be known, our stories never forgotten! We are writing ourselves into history! Not on our honor did we come here, but with honor we will leave, along with the heads of our foes! We are here at the forefront of this war, having come from nothing, and we will leave with everything and more!" Finishing her speech the effect was almost satisfying. The men had sobered up, a little antsy, but not quite so nervous. Close, but it wouldn't do. Smirking, she tacked on a last statement to her speech. "If all of you fight to the end and manage to survive, I'll give each and every one of you a kiss. Though the tone was more dry and sarcastic.

At that her men laughed, knowing her sense of humor would be one of the sort. In the face of war and death only she would make such an offer, and Xueman laughed with them. There. Humor among them, they were ready. A comfortable condition to command. As the merriment was winding down, she took on a serious visage and began barking out orders. "Archers! To the front of the main unit! As the enemy approaches, fire and fall back into the hills! From there fire at will, with every intention of protecting the pass! Make every last arrow count! Pikemen focus your efforts on cavalry units as they enter the hills! Sword & Shields, aid and defend the Pikemen!"

Her men shifting to take their places, Xueman took a moment to recognize the beauty in the setting sun, across the pass to the other officers moving about, and next to where Ma Chao would be approaching from. With luck they might at least make an impact. She didn't want to die without a few good punches, but of course she didn't want to die at all. Looking out to the wooded patch, thinking of the soldiers she intended to help. Maybe she would get to fight alongside them. But soon her attention was drawn to a cavalry charge. Her eyebrows raised softly. The courage they had...


Troops:[/u]
100 E/Pike (Battle)
200 V/Sword & Shield (Personal)
200 V/Bow (Battle)
100 M/Bow (Battle)

[Sun Liao]

Sun rides alone, his men ahead of him, Sun followed the rear. While riding Sun has been in deep thought. So much bloodshed, a whole city abandoned. These men have pushed the limit, this Ma Chao shall meet his justice swiftly, whoever gets to take his head is lucky, every man and woman in the coalition would love to take his head. But for what, glory? So much blood for one concept, one concept that meant what? In the end, when the gods judge your soul, will it count for or against you. Is it glory that one achieves in his or her life, or is it the bonds and the good one does in their life? So much death, so much pain, what is it all for? Nothing can be answered now, most can never be answered. Sun just rides, the sun setting behind him as the moon becomes slightly visible. The Golden Horde scum cheer and feast in victory, but they have not met half of their resistance. And thinking victory is won so fast is simply foolish by the young horse lord. If all glory had to muster was that, then he is gravely mistaken.

Sun looks towards the ever approaching Qing Ni gate, men lining up outside, this was it, the last stand. If they lost here where would they fall? They must not lose. Sun begins to ride faster towards the allied lines. Knowing his men await him on the other side. Sun arrives to the gate finding most generals already outside. Preparing for battle with their troops. Sun nods to Huang Zhong and passes Yu Xueman as they rode out to the field. Sun nods at the old warrior and the young maiden warrior. Both braver then any would expect, you know this Ma Chao is a tyrant when young women and old men are inspired to battle.

"My old friend, my lady, if you need assistance you need only ask, and my blade shall be there."

Sun nods as they make their way out and he is quickly greeted by the mysterious soldier who led his men to the pass. Sun does a quick salute,

"Soldier, who are you?"

"My lord, I do not deem myself worthy to tell you just yet. There is another time for that."

"I do not see why..."

Just then cavalry ride by under Gongsun Zan's banner, a call for all brave and willing warriors to ride out to the enemy, glorious indeed, suicide, that will be seen. The call lifts into the air, and seeing a vassal of Gongsun Zan and a foreign general join Sun knows what he must do.

"I will learn your name, but not yet, right now I ride with our allies, T'se shall not be excluded from this charge, I shall take the head of these barbarians that Ma Chao has brought, and you shall be promoted if we are to win. Thank you for the help. Set the archers atop the hills, and the pikemen on the bottom to prevent cavalry charges. I shall take the cavalry."

Sun looks at the man,

"If the charge fails, and I cannot be saved then lead these men to victory. You have taken the men this far, and have stuck true to your word, I trust you will not fail me with this."

At this Sun turned around and raised his sword, cavalry of T'se start filing out the gate and following. As Sun begins to ride away the general yells out to Sun,

"Wait! it is me, Zhang Ce!"

It is too late, Sun has ridden too far, the pounding of the hooves deafening. Ce sighs, hoping that this was not his last experience with the young general. Ce gathers the archers and pikemen and begin to move out towards the edge of the hills. If this battle begins to go foul then they shall make their way through the hills back to the gate. But the battle shall not go sour, not with Sun at its head.

*Summary*
- Sun arrives and joins his cavalry with Gongsun Zan's and Eshmunbaal's.
- The mysterious general shows himself to be Zhang Ce and he moves the archers to the edge of the hills and they get stationed on the top, the Pikemen on the bottom to defend them.

Troops
100 Elite Lancers (Battle)
100 Elite Mounted Sword and Shieldmen (Personal)
100 Elite Pikemen (Personal)
200 Veteran Pikemen (Battle)
100 Militia Bowmen (Battle)

[Mortiss V3]

(Just so you know where I am seeing as though everyone seems to have ignored what I was doing)

Still waiting on the front line of the pass, Will be the first enemy Ma Chao gets too after he has squashed everyone who ran ahead. Stationed in front of the gate leaving plenty of room behind for anyone who wants to line up in the front

(Note if anyone wants to get ahead of me then post that you are moving past Mortiss rather than ignoring me please)

200 Elite Twin Swords (Battle plus personal)
200 Veteran Pikes
100 Militia bowmen
100 Militia Lancers (Personal)

The Pikes are in the front, the Archers to the left and right of the Pikes slightly behind them. The Lancers are directly behind the Archers. The Twin Swords are behind the Pikes.

[Mr Wu Sheng]

Beautification comes with a price
But do you know what that price is?

Wu Tian perched himself against the upper slab of the gate, peering down at the soil that coated the vibrant earth like realm with a sheet of immaculate bearings - the small shards of dust and dirt that emerged from the bearings resembled from above like little specs of glass, as if the sun had already burned the dusty plains long enough to bring about their transformations. But then - as the visualisation of those specs soon faded, a slightly more dense coating was found, hidden deep beneath the surface. It resembled an army of ants - swarming the entire field, as if jumping instantaneously with each other to form minute waves along the plains surface.

It was only at that precise moment in time that he noticed that it was not the wind or creatures of this world that brought about this perplexed view of events - but instead a stampede, and what else was strong enough to shake the realm this harshly then an army of horses - ready and willing to do the bidding their masters craved for.

His suspicions were emphasised by the response of a few others, who too had noticed the trembling vibrations of this event. But they rushed hastily into position, where as he felt little need to - he still had time, if only a little, to stare a while longer at this moving bed of beads and the direction in which they were moving.

"Gotcha." His words spewed from his mouth as he leaped from the slab, crashing into the floor only to bend his knees with the impact it would create, lowering his whole body so that his bare fingers swept aside the dust from around him, "Men!"

His soldiers came pouring from the sidelines, their armour stretched against their torso's as they double checked to see their scabbards were all in working order, "yes my lord!" stated the front officer, presumably to the others to be the leading captain of Tian's forces.

"Send the archers to the gate, make sure you get good spots but do not centre yourself in the middle, let us adorn the right flank of this gate somewhat."

"Aye aye sir, is there anything else."

"Yes!" Wu Tian paused only long enough to push himself back up from his knelt position, "Bring the soldiers and horses, we will wait for them just over there."

His free hand pointed the way - to the right of Mortiss and his own legion of barbaric dogs, and the guard nodded curtly before leaving the passage and heading back to the small camp where his troops rested. This would be the battle - the one to decide the fate of Wei Yan and those who had come to support him, he must have been proud - for who else would have expected such companionship from the outside regions. or maybe it was just a facade, a way simply to increases ones publicity by reigning havoc on the so called tyrants of this land.

Thats certainly what it was for him anyway, a way to gain recognition - but not for Tse, but for himself, and the legacy his father had left behind for him, before he too was rudely removed from this world by the plague in which he sought at this very moment in time to destroy, and so this was it - his army readied just outside the main gates of the pass, his horses at the fore, waiting patiently for any sign of the enemy whilst his crossbowmen waited at the back, upon high ground - so that their bolts of destruction could penetrate anything before them. All now to do was wait, and wait they would.

"Engarde Mortiss." Wu turned to the standing figure that he presumed was Mortiss and spoke, his voice cold - but unafraid, "To win this we must find unity - even though our banners wave of different colours."

After he had finished - there was nothing left to do but wait - and see.

Summary

Wu Tian's prepared his army on the right flank of the gate, crossbows on the right flank of the wall and his horsemen at the fore on the ground with the rest behind, i guess were just waiting..PAITENTLY

Troops
150 Elite Horsemen Equipped with a Spear and Shield (battle troops)
200 Veterans Crossbowmen (battle troops)
100 Militia Sword and Shield (battle troops)
100 Ruffian Horsemen Equipped with a Spear and Shield (personal troops)

[Aja Jex]

Aja Jex had quickly arrived at the defense setting his troops up. He looked behind and was happy that Lu Jex was alive. The troops were abit tired but had a chance to rest quickly. Now Aja Jex had a chance to set up his troops and had no idea what to do.

Aja heard that they were gathering a calvary and he know that his calvary were the Elite. Sending his out was good but with who? He couldn't decide until he heard that death was certain there.

He knew they had less chances to survive if he had raced off in front but here they had alot of protection. Even they knew a calvary alone can just break the enemies line however what if it worked? What if Ma Chao's head came back, these things were going in to Jex's mind.

Aja Jex ordered his army to formation by shouting out loud:

"When they arrive, I shall show them the Calvary I have trained for ages. My Elite warriors shall stay with me to hold off the siege touching the gates. Lu Jex, you will take the crossbow unit and place them on the wall to fire any enemy in range. Infantry will also be in Lu Jex's command and shall rest behind the gate for the time being. Don't let this chance go by! Just be patient for the time being."

Aja Jex laughed so people thought he had no fear and quickly gathered up the 200 Veterans Horsebow and 200 Elite Horse Spear and Shields. He place them side by any space left in front of the wall.

Aja Jex now had to set the other units but he led the calvary himself. He set the 100 Militia CrossBows on the wall to fire at any enemy in range. The remaining troops were with Lu Jex behind the gates resting and were preparing for battle.
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Commanding Troops
100 Elite Spears and Shields
200 Veterans HorseBows
100 Militia Cross Bows
200 Elite Horse Spear and Shields

Summary
-Aja Jex has arrived
-Aja Jex and his 4 units of calvary are placed the leftl of Mortiss meaning abit front of the gates
-To the left of the calvary are 1 unit of Spear and Shields
-Lu Jex commands the CrossBows which are placed at the left flank

(The troops are on the left of Mortiss, the ones that are protecting the gates

[Cao Cao]

Dust clouds rose in the distance, and the thundering hooves of hundreds, if not thousands of men stormed towards the last bastion of defence, the mighty gates of Qing Ni. Heroes had passed through the gates and rushed forth to the historic city of Chang An, now the power of the Horde has washed them backwards in their valiant paths, forcing them tight into this final corner. Efforts of the men who stayed at the pass would bolster this single line of defence, whilst those filled with courage and virtue, and a sense of duty towards the Glory Kingdom, had down their best to whittle down the unending numbers of the Horde. Here at Qing Ni the heroes would truly witness what they were fighting for - their lives, their futures, and their country, all entwined and displayed to them through the belligerence of one orphaned child - the mighty Ma Chao.

All would be put to the test on this fateful day. Glory had been kicked from their city of Chang An, and would seek refuge in the allied efforts, seemingly headed by Cao Cao of Wei, Sun Yuan Ci of T’se, and Gongsun Zan of Baima, the new northern alliance. Others would come to quickly stem the flourishing Horde, the somewhat incompetent Liu Shan made an appearance with a makeshift army, the infamous archer Huang Zhong would draw his bow at the sight of golden banners, and even more women graced the battlefield in the form of a newcomer, Yu Xueman. As thousands of men rushed into their forced positions, those who held patience to wait at the pass already had their defences set.

Witnessing the shift of balance in the distance, the Golden banners high in the air while that of Glory getting lower, and retreating, Cao Mengde stood atop the ramparts of Qing Ni, and let out a brief, exasperated sigh. The armies of Chang An had been beaten, and lives had been pointlessly wasted in sending aid to the doomed city. Peering around himself, his thoughts were soon marred by the rushing footsteps and bellowing cries of panicking soldiers, all rushing to find themselves, not only within this battle, but in the very game of life the Gods now played with them. Mengde lightly stroked the hilt of his finely crafted blade, watching out over the fields in front of him, and the rallying soldiers forming makeshift lines in this small pass. Out there amongst them was the creature Mortiss, whom had stormed off to feed his own blood craze.

Muttering to himself, though loud enough for the nearby soldiers and officers to hear, Cao Cao expressed his thoughts on the battlefield, and did his best to keep hidden the trembling fear he felt as he stood at the face of the man who could destroy this country.

“I’ve seen.. Many many things in my life time. I’ve read countless treatises on war, written countless commentaries on diplomacy, and engaged in countless debates on military philosophy. Never before have I, or could I ever, comprehend the magnitude of this battle now. The Golden Horde hungers for blood, and would spill rivers of our crimson life force to sate their vicious cravings. Is it I who must slay the beast before his thirsts consume the entire globe? To what degree does man stop fighting for his ideals and his kingdom, and instead, fights for his survival?” The lord looked downward, over the edge of the ramparts, before unsheathing his blade, and slowly pointing it out towards the battlefield, staring down its shimmering edge. His voice became softer, unintelligible to all around.

“For what does a blade matter when man can no longer fight together to use it? These officers.. These men.. These.. People, would rather rush ahead to fight for their own causes, rather than rally together under the single banner of defiance. Must I stem their growth before they too flourish beyond reasonable control? Ah, but people will ask of my conscience, ask of the will and the fate my people.. And the people that these men fight for. Conscience is surely but a word that cowards use, devised to keep the strong in awe. I can keep them in awe.. I can sate these men, and vanquish the beast.” His voice rose at the final comment, and his blade slashed through the empty and open air. Turning around to face his remaining officers, and the very elite of his army, his charismatic, inspiring tone bellowing out to all who would hear.

“Loyal followers of the Han! This beast of the north-west emerges from its mountainous caves and roars out a challenge to all able bodied men of China! He believes that because he hides away in his high mountains, he is somehow above us as men, and as warriors! He fights using his brutish, ugly size, willing to crush us beneath the masses of blind followers to his insane will. He has no mind for tactics, no mind for the true skill of warfare. The swords, the spears, the bows you all have in your hands are NOT the weapons you will use to destroy our foe today - it is the very skill inside your mind and souls, that has put on you on this battlefield, that will grace us with victory today! Spill the beasts blood, run his wicked followers home to their mountains, and let the Han’s banners shine the future for our beautiful country!” Hundreds of men on the ramparts roared in excitement, taking up their bows and rushing towards the front edge of the ramparts, ready to stare down the advances of any foolish enemies.

Behind the gates formed up two mighty siege weapons, trebuchets of gigantic proportions, enough to hurl boulders and other debris far over the gate, into the distance, to barrage the rushing flood of the horde. Dozens of soldiers worked to set up the mighty implements of war, bringing forth flammable barrels and hay, ready to create chaos on the battlefield. Unfortunately for the allies, they would remain somewhat useless as the blind rushes of men such as Gongsun Zan and Sun Liao would render the violent defences useless. A snarl escaped Mengde’s lungs; heroes and their glory..

Three hundred archers ran along the walls of Qing Ni pass, 100 veterans, and 200 hundred militia, whilst the rest of Cao Cao’s men stood at the base of the walls, ready for advancement elsewhere. The Wei lord peered around once more, looking for both the lady Xiang, and his cousin, lord Xiahou Dun. They would command the rest of the infantry, whilst Cao Mengde would watch up atop the gates, sword in hand, conducting the chaotic carnage.

*Cao Cao has rallied his men atop the gates!*
*His archers have lined up along the walls, whilst the rest of his troops await for further command at the base of the walls.*
*He has 2 trebuchets set up behind the walls, prepared to fire, though wary of the advances of more ambitious generals!*

100 Elite Swords and Shields
200 Veteran Spears and Shields
100 Veteran Archers
200 Militia Archers
200 Militia Swords and Shields
2 Trebuchets