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Post by Mr Nor on Sept 18, 2008 16:32:39 GMT -5
Sun Jian squinted at Sun Yuan Ci, and then smiled slowly. He stood, and Zhou Tai followed suit. Zhou Tai, not knowing what his lord would answer, was actually perspiring. He wiped his hands casually on his legs as Sun Jian began to speak.
"Lord Sun Yuan Ci, your proposal is one that I gladly accept. I hereby pledge the Empire of Wu to your cause, and will brandish the blades of Wu in the name of peace."
((Yeah, it's short. Not a big deal.))
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Post by Mr Jiang Wei on Sept 21, 2008 3:59:18 GMT -5
Liu Xuande politely drank from the glass of wine before him as he listened to the host of the banquet surprise the assembled with his rather grand, sweeping proposal. Off at his side, Xiaoli Qing, the girl he had come to draw strength and confidence from, joined him in silent analysis of the situation. She had become very important to him as of late, and having her near gave the young lord a sense of peace, one that he would certainly need to endure trials of diplomacy that lay ahead..
Truth be told, Xuande was surprised that his choosing to bring the lady that now sat to him apparently seemed to be a bad decision in the mind of his host. Surely Guan Yu, with his reputation for honoring his soldiers but showing polite distance to men of civil rank, would have earned disdain from the assembled leaders, particularly Wei Yan. And where Guan Yu would have earned disdain, Zhang Fei, with his rather... expressive temperament would have surely provoked outright indignity.
However, they were his brothers, men he had sworn his life to, and the words of others carried no weight in the face of such a promise. Even should the whole world turn against them, Xuande would see only two good men with honest and honorable hearts, men he had sworn to serve and fight for, just as they had sworn to serve and fight for him. United, their noble ambition to restore the Han Dynasty had manifested itself in the Kingdom of Shu, a kingdom where lord and vassal worked alongside the people to ensure that the mistakes of the past that had divided the land would not be repeated.
Jiang Wei had also been considered, and when Yuan Ci had expressed surprise at the fact that the young minister was not among those from Shu that had come, it had made Xuande smile inwardly. Jiang Wei had apparently earned a measure of respect from Wei Yan and thus Yuan Ci, since despite his apparent lack of a banner, it was obvious that the former was collaborating with the latter, even to man with as basic a grasp of politics as Xuande.
It was also for that very reason that the young minister had not been brought along. The King of Han Zhong had no doubt that Jiang Wei would have been seen as the logical choice to bring, but the young man still had much to learn, and his wiliness to defend his lord with words might have been better then an inebriated Zhang Fei swinging his spear about, but peace required compromise, even if though no fault of his own, Xuande would be required to be the most vociferous about it. Furthermore, the ease at which such inflammatory words had been leveled at him did not sit well with Xuande; if these men truly wished to count Shu among their allies, they would have to do so while at the same time coming to acknowledge Xuande as more then a power to be wary of, even if he happened to be seen that way despite his desire not to be.
Standing, the young King of Han Zhong bowed to those assembled.
"I would say, Sun Yuan Ci, that it is time I provided you with your answer. I am Liu Bei, honored by my people as the King of Han Zhong, and loyal servant of our nation," Xuande began, his voice modulating to carry to the very corners of the room. His tone, lacking both the brashness of Zhang Fei and the light, almost delicate nature of Jiang Wei, was instead a compromise of warmth and strength more akin to the persistence of the tides rather then the fury of a rapid river or the quiet of an undisturbed lake.
"Though it has been some time since last I saw or spoke with many of you assembled here, I am glad to see that you all are in good health and I before I continue, I would like to thank Master Sun Yuan Ci for inviting me. I am grateful to be included among the lords sitting at this table, particularly in light of the fact that our host had never sent an envoy to Shu before. Truly, to know that despite this, he still felt the need to honor Shu with a place at this table for such a significant event is most heartening."
Pausing for a beat to regard the others at the table, Xuande allowed his thoughts to flash to his friends and fellow officers and to the smiling faces of the people of Shu, drawing strength from the images. He had never been truly comfortable with walking ahead of those that might not follow or walking behind those that assumed the right to lead; he preferred to walk alongside the people that he served as their peer, united with them in the common cause of prosperity.
It felt redundant and perhaps a bit awkward to speak of his own ambitions as he intended to, but Xuande intended to dispel the rumors that seemed to rise off the streets of cities outside of Shu like the heat of a summer day. The lords of the land would have to be reminded that Shu stood for such peace, that it was built upon such peace and that its decisions were made in an effort to continue that peace.
"Your proposal is most interesting indeed, and I am certain that the people of Shu would rejoice knowing that the lords of the land were endeavoring to put aside their ambitions and work towards returning our country to a state of unity. Indeed, such a peace has long been my fondest wish for our land, and I am privileged to count so many fine men and women among the vassals that have offered their services to Shu who share this desire.
I must admit, however, that Lord Sun Jian gave voice to the musings of my own heart on the matter, but to hear your reply, I do not see any reason why such an idea cannot be put to practice. I would wonder, however, where such an army would be based to ensure that it is not immediately at the beck and call of a lord who might be tempted by the power it offered? I would have suggested Luo Yang, however it currently lays within the boarder of Wei. Perhaps Chang An, where I understand that Wei Yan has left the core of his mighty fighting force, would be a place to consider? Also, who would command it? As much as I wish to believe that all assembled here are as committed to such a positive endeavor as I am, I have no doubt that each of us can find reasons, polite and diplomatic as they may be, why it would be better to have such a force in a neutral city, uninfluenced by lords and vassals. Perhaps it is time that we found the next successor to the throne of the Han Dynasty? To have such an army serving him would ensure that he would be able to consolidate his authority without fear of succumbing to the corruption and ambitions that gave rise to villians such as Dong Zhuo."
Sitting, Xuande appraised the others assembled for a long beat before allowing his gaze to flicker over to Xiaoli Qing. A part of him wished to ask her how she felt he had done, but he knew that it would have to wait until later. For now, he contented himself with drawing strength from her presence as he waited to see where the conversation would go next. Thus far, Wei had been silent...perhaps they would voice the objection that he had apparently been expected to?
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Post by Sun Yuan Ci on Sept 21, 2008 18:07:11 GMT -5
*And so it was, the prestegious Lord Xuande had spoken at long last. Though there was a long time elapsed while Zhiyun and the others had been awaiting to hear the diplomatic resolve of the young, yet charismatic lord, it was seemingly worth the wait. Though he did not carry himself with much confidence, and though he was heavily critisized for not bringing a representative that symbolized his stance of power and virtue, he spoke clearly now. Perhaps it was something about the full moon that made the noble Liu Family, usually shy and incompetent in the presence of those far superior to them, finally show ability. Liu Shan, a man who could stretch a three-word sentance to last a minute or two, made his stance clear with great posture and a booming voice as he spoke, as did Liu Bei.*
*Sun Yuan Ci was left half puzzled at the preamble to Liu Bei's speech. He stood at an angle to Liu Bei, his shoulder aimed at the King of Han Zhong while he aimed his head off to the side, straightening his glance toward the young lord. His brow fell low, a harsh stare spewing it's way across the round table toward Liu Bei as he spoke out of humility and respect to the host, Sun Yuan Ci himself. He was unsure, however, of the meaning behind this. Sure enough, he could easily just be humbling himself and honoring the host. Or perhaps it was a masked taunt. Zhiyun's mind lingered on this thought for less then a moment, immediately moving on as Liu Bei now began to speak of the proposal that was presented to him. Much of what he said was wise, and much was well thought out, attempting to bring light to any area that Zhiyun himself did not emphasise yet. But Zhiyun did not answer these, yet. Instead, he brought himself back to the first sentance uttered by Liu Bei.*
"I beseech you to hold your tongue for a moment while I ponder what you've said, Xuande. Honored by the people as King of Han Zhong. Forgive me to expose this, but was it not Jiang Wei who gained for you... that city? Was it not Jiang Wei that brought you the glory you now bask in? And tell me, oh King of Han Zhong, how you can possbly say that you SERVE the people, when it is the people whom you fight! I am at a loss of words, Xuande, at what majestic presence you are said to hold. I was told to expect a man who could move the heavens to and fro with nothing more then a charming look and smile... and what do I recieve? A man who sulks his way to my hall with no representative to diplomacy, but a romantic envolvement, who then questions me on my motives to restore peace?
"If you cannot grasp what I now expose, let me shed light to your darkened eyes. I have established a mighty kingdom in Xi Bei. I did not want any of the fame I now possess, I simply wished to save a starving and deprived and destroyed cty of Ye. But by the will of the people, I rose to power. Systematically, I gained the support of every warlord around me, including the horselord Gongsun Zan, and including your son Liu Shan. I have built my kingdom without lifting a sword to strike or a shield to parry. Can the same be said for you? Do you gain your power through peaceful diplomacy, or do you raise arms against cities who wish to remain free from the chaos? Tell me, when you lay seige to the many cities you have conquered, do you let the people who wish to stay free leave the city, or do you simply surround and bombard it? Who do you think you fight? Are you fighting tyranny, or greed, by attacking civilians who raise arms against your false virtue, or are you simply a demon who hides beneath an angel's halo?"
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Post by Ayden (Retired) on Sept 22, 2008 2:39:10 GMT -5
"Whoah! Hold up!" The voice echoed throughout the halls of the Ye dining hall. It was strange, how could such a rowdy man had been kept quiet for so long? The man had been at the table, nearby to Sun Jian the entire time. None had noticed his presence, until now. Was he flirting with the servants? No, he, despite his looks, was more interested in politics as opposed to the biology of the female body. He had been drinking quite excessively, but still maintained his composure. Standing up, the man took his wine goblet and poured the contents down into his mouth. Too bad the thing was empty. He tossed it behind him, before taking the person's who sat beside him. It happened to be Sun Jian's. With a quick wink, the rowdy man drank half the goblet in almost one excessive swig. "You wanna talk about peace between warlords? It's been barely five minutes since you proclaimed it and already ya got your tongue off it's leesh!" The man had yet to be introduced, so it was unknown to those who he in fact was. His attitude was one that was sarcastic and could be considered quite rude. With another quick swig, he had downed the remainder of Sun Jian's goblet. Banging the goblet on the table, he lifted himself back to a stare at Sun Yuan Ci. "Now! I ain't got much knowledge in politics, but I can tell when a guy wants to impale someone else! You!" Pointing at Wei Yan, the Beast of Chang An, a smirk suddenly broke across his face. "Yeah! You! Beast of An Chang...or wherever! Look at yourself, you can barely hold your anger in! I see it, I see it in your eyes. You say you want peace, but as soon as you can muster yourself some boys, you'll be chasing Liu Bei like a fox would a rabbit!"
His figure then turned towards Liu Bei, his hand now waving about to gain more emphasis on his speech. His volume had now raised to a high point. "If I remember correctly, you took down that big freak back on the beaches against Dong Zhuo. Yeah? Why weren't ya taking down the big bad boy of Ma Chao's army? I saw your kingdom's flag! And it wasn't you! It was that niece of yours, huh? The one they say slept with Ma Chao! Why weren't ya there to take down another freak?" In all truth and honesty, Gan Ning was merely going off the rumours of what people had told him. During the battle, Gan Ning was way over the other side of China, along the shores... Now, his attention turned back to Sun Yuan Ci. His hands moved forward onto the table, in a leaning stance. "This land ain't gonna get anywhere with all you lot ruling at once. Theres only room for one! You all look like contenders, but I gotta say, there can only be one! Oh and uh...I'd prefer if you didn't execute me for what I had just spoken."
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Post by zhugeliang on Sept 22, 2008 5:25:38 GMT -5
Sitting, not moving his eyes barley focused on the main speaker, Sun Yuan Ci the man that is to save all of china had nothing to say other than bark insults at Liu Bei but more importantly Shu. Keeping under pressure he did nothing other than close his eyes and listen to every word Yuan Ci had to say then he finally stopped. Re-opening his eyes yet another spoke but this one came from the friendly officer of Gan Ning he spoke much truth which again was directed at Liu Bei.
As he finished up his speech he then looked over at the people who had assembled at the banquet and no one else seemingly wanted to speak so to break the silence he stood up again to face the insults of Yuan Ci. ‘’Never mind Lord Yuan Ci, I shall forgive you but incase word didn’t reach your ear but only some of what you wanted to hear then I shall shed light into your darken eyes. Firstly yes, Master Jiang Wei the current Prime Minister was present during my talk with the elders of Han Zhong and Master KongMing himself, Jiang Wei spoke only when spoken too. He did say words to help win over the elders support but Myself spoke so much more than him not putting him down, but I would rather extend my merits than go into a city with all swords flinging such as yourself.'' Taking a short pause he would continue into taking onto his next so called claim to fame.
‘’The only battle we have fought without diplomacy was the recent battle of Yong An, we have had to defend ourselves when my Brother Yu, was ambushed when he went to talk to the elders of Yun Nan further more I believe the T’se kingdom has had more battles over cities than Shu in gaining land, only Master Sun Liao has spoken through diplomacy which I applaud.’’ Conjuring another breathe as he was simply replying to the claims in which Yuan Ci had put against him, keeping to Jiang Wei information of remaining calm in heated moments.
‘’Well, it seems that no one else has had any opposition towards myself bringing Miss Xiaoli here, so may I ask in a calm discussion we are having here, Why are you quick to take to offense for my actions? How about before you throw another banquet you practice diplomacy some more, Even without Master Jiang Wei the one who is in your eyes and the beasts eyes the better choice to bring, you have to admit this that I have displayed myself to none of what you expected, Though I am the only one here that hasn’t committed my land and my forces towards your proposal but I have suggested ideas and committed effort towards this ideal, how can I not be without tact.''
Looking around at all the people just eyeing Liu Bei, pushing his chair back, he walked around towards the back of his chair and placed his hands on the back of the chair and leant on it. ‘’ As far as your achievements go, you have done well I shall admit this. They have been warranted, so why are your own replies confusing yourself? But don’t just talk to me, look at all the Regional Lords that are watching us right now, surely in your mind there are better things to do than watch counter productive and fruitless words coming this banter, Since I am seen in such a negative light by a man that hasn’t had the effort to speak to myself, spreading things behind my back is such a cowardly act even for you, A man who has focused and prided himself and his kingdom upon your warrior fists, hoping and wishing that your ferocity on the battlefield will make up for your flaws on leadership.’’
Walking around the seat once more he then went back towards his original stance from the leaning on the back of the chair, ‘’ Now to conclude this reply towards your reply from my reply, I shall state this for all to hear, the Kingdom of Shu has never turned away any offer from any envoy, that you, yourself have pioneered to walked down such a humble, honorable, reputation boosting path. Perhaps Master Yuan Ci, you are threaten by me? A person who has done nothing other than the good of those who entrust in me, then maybe once again tonight you have made another fatal flaw for inviting Shu towards this banquet, since your T’se Kingdom is not ready to unite, but keep and consolidate your power, something that can resemble a likeness from your current character towards that of the late Dong Zhou, something that Zhou did very well as you are currently doing.''
Xuande then seated himself, awaiting from a reply either from Yuan Ci which was most likely, or perhaps Xiaoli who he keenly awaited her reply from his past speeches tonight, but what also of Wei? Li Dian the man who has come in place of Master Cao Cao would he speak up and say something, one thing for sure before the end of the night he would speak to his ally about an issue.
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Post by Kyle on Sept 22, 2008 12:20:12 GMT -5
He can't be serious... he cannot be serious. What the hell is this man thinking, and how highly must he think of himself? Merely stating sycophantic things will not gain the support of Wei, nor should it have gained the support of the others. So, why the hell are the other jackasses agreeing? Sure, it sounds great in theory, but that's about it; I don't think these men are very intelligent, otherwise they'd see the problems with this whole thing. It is not the people you have to worry about -- they are powerless. It is the the clans, the families that have power that need to be pleased.
Though Mancheng's thoughts were not very pleasant, he would speak respectfully; he was by far the youngest one there, aside from Liu Chan, but he was holding much more responsibility than the other his age. Again, like always -- much more than he wanted. Amidst all of his disdainful, logical thoughts, he would muster up words worthy enough to feed the egos of those present. Pretty words often masked much uglier thoughts, perhaps those present would be insightful enough to know that. One would expect them to, being so heavily involved in politics as they were.
"Your idea, Lord Sun Yuan Ci...", Mancheng said as he stood, "Is pleasant to the ears, certainly. The problem is that when I manage to get past the pleasant sounds of your proposal, and delve into logical thought" Something, you are apparently not capable of. "... the issues with your proposal are almost infinite. This, I cannot condone, as a man, and as a person in a position of 'power'. You see, I may be young, but I am no fool, and I know for a fact that being naive in this time is to wish for death. Sadly, esteemed lord, you seem to be doing just that. I am aware that aspirations of peace are admirable, but what you have in mind is, well, for lack of better words, bordering foolish.
"I mean not to offend, it just that I am rather exasperated at the lack of thought that anyone seems to be putting into this. Yes, I'm sure the people do wish for peace, and that is all grand, but the people are not the ones that you have to think about, not because they are not important, for they most certainly are, but they have not the power to stop the backlash of rage and indignation that would come about from your proposal. There are many in this Middle Kingdom, and among those many are powerful families, ages old, they will not stand for this. Some may, that is true, but most are not foolish and naive as you are seeming to be currently.
"You can say peace is great and make a great speech about it, but that will not just make peace happen. I would have thought that you would understand that, given your experiences and your position. When, in fact, if we followed through with your proposal, we would create more violence and chaos than Dong Zhongying, or Ma Mengqi, men whom you condemn for their actions, yet are about to follow suit, combined. You seem to think that you destroying the Han, but not only that, but creating an entirely new government, will go over well with the people, even they will not endorse this. They are uneducated, superstitious, and they will not go along with this plan, even if it would benefit them.
"I am trying to be as respectful as possible, but the more I think about your lack of thought, and even your audacity, I become even more disgruntled. It amazes me that you have even gotten as far as you have in this world if you are truly that challenged in thought. I can only imagine what my Lord Mengde would say if he were present, though, I'm glad that he did not waste his time as the other lords and you yourself are doing. If you cannot see the wisdom in my words, then you are all doomed. I speak all of this to help you, even if my words are disdainful, and my tone aggravated."
Mancheng paused, his gaze still fixed on Sun Yuan Ci. He then turned and looked at the others present; his eyes stern, filled with frustration at the idiocy going on around him. "I turn now to you all: Lords of the land. How is it that you all can so easily go along with this man's madness? How is it that you, men of supposed intelligence are unable to see what I am able to? Surely you do not truly believe that this upstart, who is full of himself solely because he has had initial success in gathering land, is going to get anywhere with such unworldly thinking? If you do, then I fear that the lives of everyone are going to be afflicted most terribly by this plan.
"If my words fall upon deaf ears, then I shall take my leave, report to Lord Mengde and we will inform all those who are literate of what foolishness is occurring here, and the land who you think so docile and malleable will turn on you in an instant. Your support will be gone and your attempts to uproot the government will be nullified.
"I mean this not as a threat, I am only being honest about what will happen. The other lords here would be wise to decline your offer as well, and those that have accepted it, would do well to rethink what they have agreed to. In any case, I'll gladly take up debate with any who think my arguments can be bested."
The young lord of Wei looked at all present once more, fire in his eyes, anger and passion igniting within them. He was extremely indignant at the goings on at the banquet, and at the apparent lack of intelligence in the room. His words were spoken calmly, though, they were not venomous nor spiteful; they were honest, and he would not back down to any of these men, whether they be stronger, older, or higher in position. He was to represent Cao-Wei's best interest, and he would do just that. Not only was he defending Wei's best interest, he was also trying to prevent a disastrous thing from occurring, thus defending the entire country's best interest.
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Post by Cao Pi on Sept 22, 2008 12:46:09 GMT -5
The hall was erupting in arguments left and right, some siding for the empire, some siding against, no one being able to unite the chaos. What a wonderful microcosm that it was. However, anyone there would agree, things were getting FAR too serious.
With great pomp and circumstance, and with that I mean he bashed through the doors upon a great white steed, sending two T'se guards flying against the wall, both men hitting and falling down, giving their bums a nice sized bruise each, Gongsun Zan's glorious white steed made itself known. It was a beautiful creature, elegant, its armor gleeming in the setting sun, creating an almost holy appearance.
And then there was Zan.
He was becoming more old and feeble as the days went on, however his figure betrayed this idea, somewhat still muscular, especially for a man of his age. He kicked his horse in the side, and it trotted forwards, before stopped at one end of the table. Most people now would be utterly speechless, however, the next moment would go down in T'se history books forever.
Zan's horse bucked to the side, and Zan slammed, face first, into the large table, sending plates, goblets, and food scattering in all directions. The tapestry that was common for feast tables was torn on the jagged pieces of Zan's armor. In one hand he held a sword, quite dull, and chipped, as though he had been slamming it into things for a few days straight. In his other hand secured this fact as truth, as a wine-sack was held, quite emptied a few times.
He tried to stand on the table, instead only able to kneel, and he waved his sword 'menacingly' in the air, more like feebly, and somewhat pathetically. He pointed it, or tried to, towards Yuan Ci.
"YOU FUCKED UP BEI PING!"
The old man teetered, and then fell to the right, near a few patrons, and clattered to the ground. He hit hard, probably broke his arm, but was quite content passing out in a puddle of his own urine and wine. He was out cold, sleeping like a baby.
Well, if nothing else, it broke the tension, right?
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Post by Sun Liao on Sept 22, 2008 14:43:14 GMT -5
Sun watches as lords and strangers alike spoke their opinions. Some more polite, some a slight bit more rude and unexpected but none the less their opinions were heard. Sun watches as Liu Bei defends himself, but notices something about his cousin, a sly, more wicked look. Was this what was planned, was this a meeting to slander Liu Bei? That just doesn't make sense, the cousin that Sun Liao knows isn't this kind of man, is he. Sun watches as Gan Ning comes slamming into the room and an old drunk on a horse crashes in as well. Seeing that they managed whole speeches and quick crazed sentences before being apprehended, Sun had to take the initiative.
"Enough! This is a meeting for rulers and one guest! Someone arrest this pirate, and remove this beast, and its horse out of this room!"
The recent chaos of uninvited guests have thrown off the once serious demeanor of the meeting, yet the doors slam shut, Sun looks around confused now. Why have the doors shut? But a better question yet is how did a pirate and an old man make their way through a well defended and armed city into an even more highly defended and armed palace.....Things grow quiet yet again for what little time it could be, everyone waiting to see who will break the silence.
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Post by Sun Yuan Ci on Sept 22, 2008 15:36:44 GMT -5
[EDIT - The below message is not meant to be personal, simply to add diversity to both the site and the character of SYC, and to add a SHITLOAD of drama]
*There was fight in him, yet. Liu Bei had weathered the many insults of the T'se Lord with an iron will. He stood tall, shying away from nothing, and even found the vigor to strike back, hurling insults of a similar caliber back at Zhiyun. He went as far as to deem Sun Yuan Ci threatened by Liu Bei's influence. And he was correct to an extent. The fact of the matter was that Liu Bei and Sun Yuan Ci were two of the same. Both were regarded highly as heroes of the land with reputations as high as their ranking among lords. Both had the people's fortune on their minds, and it could be inferred that both were genuinely good people. So why was it that Zhiyun held such an obvious grudge against the man?*
*It was as it was. They were too similar, yet still too different. Even with all their similarities, Liu Bei rode his prestige off of the competence of others, while Sun Yuan Ci had none to blame but Liao and his own prowess on battlefields and courts. Liu Bei lived off of the might and power of his brothers, and the tact of his Prime Minister(a man who made Zhiyun's own will shrink at the utterance of his name, Jiang Wei.) Sun Yuan Ci rebuilt an entire city from the foolishness of another warlord he deemed a villain, while Liu Bei was given all that he 'gained' through the will of those superior to him. But nevertheless, it was indeed a threat. Zhiyun did not fear Liu Bei's military. He did not fear the Blue Dragon of Guan Yu, or the mighty strategies of Jiang Wei, rather then he feared the confusion in the mind of the people between two lords so similar, though one might be called inferior to the other.*
*Zhiyun tipped his brow on a downward incline, stretching a sinister grin slowly across his face as the events unfolded. His eyes... fixed on Xuande. A scornful representative of Sun Jian had an outburst against the calling for peace, in which Sun Liao immediately ordered him removed. He looked first to Liang Xun, who did not move. Following the Grand General's orders, a guard at the table Gan Ning sat at guided him out, allowing him to remain in the city under watch, but not into the palace. Focus returned to Liang Xun, questioning glances as to why the Captain of the Guard budged not at the outburst of a pirate. Why did he remain stagnant? Through this outburst, the eyes of Zhiyun... fixed on Xuande.*
*It was Li Dian to be the first to truly challenge the wit of Zhiyun, who payed little attention at the moment. He heard the words, kept them on his mind to be brought up later, but through this challenge of Li Dian, his eyes... fixed on Xuande. Even in a questioning assault of Gongsun Zan, who surrendered his city which now lived in prosperity, his eyes... fixed on Xuande. While guards then took hold of a passed out Gongsun lord, Zhiyun broke tensions of the room by speaking.*
"Look about you, my lords. How easy is it done... tearing peace apart? Is it by the insults of one and another, or the calling of foolishness of another. Or is it simply that peace is nothing that can be achieved, only something that can be pursued? Is it even pursued now? When one calls for peace, does anyone wish to truly listen, or simply tear any foothold of an organized government apart? This is why the Han fell... is this why there can never be peace again, if there ever was?
"Liu Bei, I have listened intently with a careful ear and open mind at every word blown my way by the western wind. You have been measured time and again. You have been measured by a bureaucracy far grander, far more celestial and ceremonial then you could hope to understand. And alas, through all, you have been found wanting. Wanting in that which can no longer be found. For the world is my cave, I shall not want. As you see it it is, while the seeing lasts, a dark nightmare of history, time as a coffin; but where the water was once rigid and deadly there will swim fish, and men will live on their flesh until spring. A spring that shall last decades, until all I have in my power diminishes and the darkness may rise again through the coffin of my illuminating eye-sight. It's coming, my brother. Believe it or not. Though you murder the world, turn plains to stone, transmogrify life into I and it, strong searching roots will crack your cave and rain will cleanse it. The world will burn green, all will build again. My promise. Time is the mind, the hand that makes fingers on harp-strings pluck, swords of the heroes swing, the eyes of the queens open. By that... King of Han Zhong... I kill you."
*By the immediate conclusion of the monologue, a sharp ringing could be heard from the direction of the throne, where Liang Xun stood tall with his shining ring-sword drawn. Not seconds after, the panels above Liu Bei broke open, the pillar at Liu Bei's back had created the need for a space of support where hid a small contingent of stealth soldiers who now dropped to the banquet hall by way of tight knit rope. Blades drawn, they fell immediately to surround Liu Bei. The coming of which took not a second from the words of Zhiyun's mouth's halting flow, there was no way to avoid it. Gates barred inside and out of the palace, each exit carefully policed, it would seem the fate of Liu Bei had been dialed as the assassins' stroke now fell upon him.*
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Post by Mr Nor on Sept 22, 2008 15:48:33 GMT -5
"Gan Ning, although I would love for you to stay here, I do believe that it would be best for you to wait outside the palace for me. I will be with you shortly, it seems, since talk of peace seems to be going nowhere..." he started, but trailed off as Sun Yuan Ci began to speak. As Sun Yuan Ci went on, Sun Jian had a guess at what SYC was going to do. However, Zhou Tai knew it to be no guess. He moved closer to his lord as Sun Yuan Ci continued, and as the assassins dropped, he put a hand on his lords shoulder, who was about to try and rise from his seat.
As Liu Bei's fate fell pray to assassins, Sun Jian did not know how to react. Although his face did not show it, he did not know why he could not rise from his seat... until he looked at his shoulder, and saw a strong grip holding him down. He looked up at Zhou Tai, and Zhou Tai's expression said it all.
He is beyond our worldly help.
Sun Jian took a deep breath as he glanced away, but he was still vexed as to why this would happen so suddenly. As much as he would like to react... he couldn't. Not only was Zhou Tai holding him down, but he was unable to move. However, the acuity of their senses was now at a peak, and were aware of everything going around. If someone was to be assassinated next... Zhou Tai would make sure his lord left here alive, even if he had to cut down everyone in order to do it.
Or, well, he would at least die trying.
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Post by Sun Liao on Sept 22, 2008 16:23:44 GMT -5
Order seemed to be restored, all seemed to be coming back to normal, or so it seemed. Sun Yuan Ci started speaking, and all Sun could do was look puzzled. Where was he going with this. How do their similarities and differences and blunt insults make peace or answer any of the questions Liu Bei and Li Dian posed? But just then all seemed too clear. Assassins jumped out to attack Liu Bei. The other lords all tense up, and it seems imminent that Liu Bei dies. But what then, these talks will be all but pointless. There was once two great men vying to control China, and now there are none.
Though Liu Bei seemed a little flawed around the edges who was to say he was wrong? Definitely none of these men present had the right to judge and punish anyones wrong doings, especially under the pretenses of peace, yet what's done is done. Sun looks at the scene in front of him, his insides nagging, pushing at him. What has Yuan Ci done? These peace talks though rough around the edges could have, might have just been the solution as unlikely as it was, but now... Now again war would rage, and now it would rage harder and closer then ever before. If Chang An was close enough, now war would come to the very gates of Jin Yang and Pu Yang. Enemies were quickly made, and allies seemingly uncertain.
Sun turns to the daunting figure of Wei Yan and the young Liu Shan, tears fill Sun's eyes. Did these men know of the preceding action as they entered the doors, did all the enemies of Shu know of this trick to end lord Liu Bei's life. What would happen now, surely Li Dian will inform his lord and that won't sit well. But what of the men of Shu, do they carry on the kingdom without their fallen lord, or do they disband and swear a silent oath to defeat the man behind their lords demise. Only time will tell but the future begins to look bleaker and bleaker in Sun's eyes. A once promising meeting has quickly become morbid and gross.
What will Sun do, how can he continue to follow someone that has so trickily slain a lord of equal strength so dishonorably? Wasn't this once the man who would not slay Lu Bu because he was disarmed, but now, now he has resorted to assassinating a man who desired peace? Is this how tyrants are born? Was Dong Zhuo once a man so willing to bring peace to the land that he became paranoid and lost his conscience? If Yuan would do this, what stops him from other horrible acts.
But this was life as it is known to be. Yuan is the ruler and Liao the vassal, maybe one day they will restore peace to this unruly land, but when, and how? Not like this, never could Liao fight like this. Sun watches as the events unfold, but what of the woman? Though not entirely guilty Liu Bei's fate has already been determined, but this woman has done nothing, and Sun will not watch her die as well, not while he is watching, not if it is too late.
"Do not slay the woman!"
Sun runs towards the fray of assassins and unsheathes his sword
"Whomever strikes down the woman will be struck down by me!"
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Post by Xiaoli Qing on Sept 22, 2008 16:36:05 GMT -5
Sitting there Qing watched him get up and took a deep breath, if there was ever a moment for him to prove himself then it would be right now. If he was willing to speak in front of these men then she hoped at least they would some how feel as though he was an equal. They were leaders; people looked up to them because they showed more maturity and greatness then anyone else. They showed them the different between right and wrong, and when it came time made the right decision with out hesitating. Now they were all sitting in a room and she got the feeling something was going to happen that the perception of them like that would be shattered.
As he spoke of all of them putting aside certain things she could not help but think if they would ever but there personal feelings towards each other aside. It was a silly dream on her part but Qing had the utter most hope that some how that would happen. Also the fact that they barely knew each other she had realized that a lot of them were making assumptions about each other. It did not matter to her what there assumptions were about her, they could think whatever they would like to about her they were just going on how she looked. How she acted, and assuming the only reason she was there was merely because they had some sort of romantic interest.
As he sat down Qing had sat there and listened and it was an impressive speech but of course for the people here it would never be enough. No matter how much he tried to appear as a equal to them, show them that they were all truly fighting for the same thing they would not believe him. Some had a personal grudge on him that would never go away, that they could never leave outside of this meeting. As much as Qing wished for them to at least stop judging him there were habits that people could not break, plus they were just human. They were men who lead but everyone had flaws, Qing’s guess was they did not like to admit such a thing.
Hearing the host of this meeting start to speak Qing shut her eyes for only a moment and thought to herself here it comes. Hearing him speak right off the bat there were insults being thrown left and right, resting her hands on her forehead she concealed her eyes so that no one could see them as they rolled. It seemed as if the only reason that this man wanted Shu there was to just insult them, to throw the insults left and right. This was all beginning to make her feel like boiling over but something in her kept her from doing so, Qing didn’t want to start more arguments. Then him talking about a romantic involvement and something in her grew angrier, something in her knew this would happen.
That even though she is a female they seemed to believe her only purpose was to become a romantic involvement with him. Putting down her glass her grip on it went away and she sat and waited for the others to speak. Hearing the one say a few commands to get the one man out she recognized who it was, after all he was a pirate. His behavior and his attitude were ones she had seen before in plenty of her crew to know but he looked slightly familiar. Maybe her father had mentioned him once but it was too hard to recall at a time like this.
Standing up Qing let her finger nails hit the table slightly as she looked around at all the men in the room. “I came here hoping that some sort of resolution might be made…at least everyone could put there personal feelings aside”. Pursing her lips she stood there, her voice calm “hoping that the judgments of each other would stop and that I would see the leaders of a new age…an age where no one had to be afraid”. “All of you…your suppose to be the people that don’t pass judgment, that when people feel like there is no hope, you’re the tiny beacon that of it that is left”. “All I've seen so far is, grudges, insults and pure bias judgment” looking at them her gray eyes seemed less empty.
“I do realize I am young and I am a woman that none of you know or after this will probably never care to know” Qing said giving a nervous laugh. “You think that he should of brought Jiang Wei correct and it was such a huge mistake bringing me”. “Well maybe it was but everyone makes mistakes right?”. “If this is going to go any farther then you all have to stop passing judgment”. All that Qing could think was I came here in hopes of seeing a great man would led his army…now all I see is a boy playing dress up.
At the end of that she still stood there and she heard him continue to speak and what did you know…assassins. The guy who was looking for peace had now decided the best way to get it was by killing someone off. “Are you insane!?” Qing said looking at him “oh yes peace will come by killing a man”. Rolling her eyes, they went from compassion to the darkness that enveloped them “killing off a person is not the way peace is going to be obtained”. “I don’t see how people see a hero in you…because a hero does not try to kill someone off like Liu Bei off”.
A part of her felt so helpless, what was she suppose to do Qing did not want to start fighting now but she did not want to stand there and watch this happen. Then Qing thought about it, if she continued to act like this it would solve nothing “just do not do this…do not become a murder”. “Your people respect you; if you do this right now if you give into this temptation they will fear you”. Standing there she knew what to do if talking would not work, “your suppose to be the small speck of hope that is left in the world”. “Do not become a part of the darker parts of the world”, standing there Qing could only wait now.
This could be she realized the end of her life also if action was not taken fast enough and something in her hoped that this man had the ability to understand compassion for one another. Everything was different, she had felt anger then there was a calming peace over her now she had managed to bury the anger. If anything was going to work it would have to be some sort of peace threw some of this “if you killed Liu Bei I am just curious…how long will it take you to become displeased with everyone in this room”. “How soon will it be till you begin to think that these men are not suitable to lead” Qing said pursing her light pink lips. “This is what you claim to fight against…so why is it the one thing you claim to fight against is your greatest temptation?” standing there Sing looked straight at him, nothing could break her focus.
Then someone had already jumped to protect her, looking at whoever had just ran into to attempt to protect her. Her guess was that the man that had plotted the assassination that this was one of his officers. Looking a little surprised Qing merely let her gray eyes wander for a while. "If he kills him then he might as well plunged a dagger into all of the hearts of the people of Shu" her voice was loud enough for everyone to hear. It was true...after all if she had to go back at return news like this there would not be a pleasant reaction from the people.
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Post by Liu Shan on Sept 22, 2008 18:06:46 GMT -5
So many were talking now, Shan thought there would some form of order to this meeting and yet, no one took a sip from the cup; only him... The time that the young Liu could prove that he had some worth was being ignored? Even the beats of Wei Yan was stood silent, saying nothing or even acknowledging the existance of Shan; same could be said for everyone in the hall. Some spoke of a 'Liu Shan' but none turned to even smile, or see how much courage this young boy needed to even speak without stuttering. The eyes of the Imperial Nephew looked to the floor, the simple head gently shaking trying to figure out what to do and what to possibley say. However, the speach of his own father made Shan cringe, spouting his love for the people; what of him?! How could that man speak of love when he gave no form of affection to his own son?... The young Liu was the only one standing still, his body beginning to shake out of frustration, not truely being able to comprehend what was going on.
Meanwhile Yan Yu observed all where he stood, next to him the young Li Dian began to bore the entire banquet by using his knowledge of eloquence; it was impressive, but fatal. This man was against what the snake desired, Yu could sence that and this, this drived him to wishing Li Dian dead; how quick that order could be...having control over Shan's men, that boy could be trampled within the earth, were he belonged. Though the spouting from the Wei representative, Yan Yu did not pay attention to what was happening to the boy he proclaimed guardian of; the torment that the young Liu was going through once again.
Many began to argue, all defending the false causes they throw upon the table so none would thinking badly of them, while Sun Yuan Ci was protecting the speech he made at the opening oif the banquet. Shan did not know who to agree with, the Sun family of T'se had been so good to him but yet the taking of Bei Hai was their repayment; what more did he had left? However, whilst the many kingdoms tried to emphasise their significance to the world, something happened within the young Liu Shan. A melancholy feeling came over the frame, it felt strangely familiar but yet so distance to the knowledge of the Imperial Nephew. Turning his head around a faint figure had decided to interrupt the frustration, it could feel the Imperial blood within Liu Shan and took great delight in the fact that his mind was cracking; not sure which path to take, such vulnerability was something to be revelled in. It's presence was disturbing for the Shan but he could not with stand the desire to yield, the fear he had for this ghostly visage. "..To think the Imperial line had come to a great death, already the Emperors of old feel disgraced by all within this hollow hall.." It's voice was twisted, the tones crushed by something strange as it echoed every syllable; like it was resisting being pulled into the wall.
Shan's face turned pale, he had heard of spirits coming back from the grave when something was left undone and there was only man of the Han who could bring his life back from the courts of Hell, Chao Cuo.. The man who was tricked by his very Emperor and murdered in the most finest of silks, believing it to be a meeting. None know if his body was buried, but most likely left to show the shame he created for the Han; this ghost was the former incarnation of corruption..when alive Chao Cuo embodied the dark turmoil that tried to ravish the Han dynasty to it's knees, the chaotic ministers who took bites from the Emperor knowing their amunity was far higher than the Heavens. "..However, there is one being in here worthy enough to bring the Han to it's feet.. A young boy.." The voice was chilling, it made Liu Shan so scared but also forced him into submission, listening to every word the dead visage said.
"M-Me?" Stuttering once again Shan could only spit one word from his lips. On the other side of the banquet hall, the snake was astonished to see the young Liu speaking, to the wall? Had this moments of arguements crushed the mind of the young boy? All was lost if such was so, insanity was something hard to control and Yan Yu knew his own position within Wei would soon become void thanks to that boy, Li Dian. What was the Imperial Nephew doing talking to the wall? Did anyone else see the young Liu doing this? Why were they not concerned for his health? Self-centred...... If only the snake was back in Luoyang that he could order the Imperial guard to come crashing down on this pitiful sight, Liu Bei trying to place himself on the throne?
Fortunately the actions of both Yan Yu and Liu Shan were cut short when the host, Lord Sun of T'se, decided to lash out through his anger and strike the King of Hanzhong, Liu Bei, down. No one came to help, not even the girl who accompanied him, she did not run to his side to see his state; but selfishly stood her ground, defending herself...How 'Shu' of her. Being startled the young Liu threw himself around, the white visage vanishing into the brick work knowing it's work so far, is done. The face of Shan was pale, his eyes looked horrified by some unknown trauma; for any of those with intelligence, they would not need a physician to speak the name of 'insanity'. Seeing his own father fall to the floor, the green robes of Shu being covered in blood; the murdered...Sun Yuan Ci?! The very man Shan felt he could trust and secure, killing Liu Bei, even though the young Liu had no love left for this man, mere tormented hatred. Something within him wanted to cry and quickly question Liu Bei about why he was treated so bad.
Standing still, distraught by not being able to find out the truth to why he was given such foul treatment, the feeling once again came alive; the ghostly visage taking hold of the young boy.. Possession? Most likely.. Insanity? It could be a reason.. The look within Shan's eyes had become twisted, the darkness only harboured a vague sence of hatred that had been buried for many years; Chao Cuo was within this boys control. The fuedal lords did not move, the sword within the chest and Sun Yuan Ci the murderer, everyone witnessing the cruel nature in which the rage took hold. Now, Liu Shan was to move and in such a way that would caused concern; as if his very body was dead.. The embodiment of Chao Cuo not knowing how to walk from the many years incarserated in hell, Shan knew the intentions but had no true strength to resist.
The young boy walked over to Sun Yuan Ci, the disturbed eyes glaring at the T'se Lord with a twisted smile appearing on the once innocent face of Liu Shan...something had happened ineternally in Shan. 'Now is the time to claim power over the Imperial line, the Han maybe dead, but it is soon that our era begins.. All one needs is one swipe.' Shan was doing the unthinkable and taking hold of a sword, one from a guard who seemed quite mortified by what his own lord had done. Without anyone stopping him, the weak frame dragged the blade infront of the Hanzhong King's body; the screeching sound it made upon the ground quite harsh to the ears. Before Liu Bei his son stood, 'all one needs is one swipe', Sun Yuan Ci was now the victor upon Shu, who would no doubt raise a war against T'se.. Without Liu Bei or Sun Yuan Ci, these two kingdoms had no foundations to stand against the Han's rebirth, no threat to killing off the Imperial line. Sun Yuan Ci would know the look in which Shan gave him, it had all the murderous intent that Chao Cuo desired of this frame, that seemed to bow to every whim without arguement.
'All one needs is one swipe'.. A gentle command that boomed through the body and once given, it was done. Though the sword was heavy, Liu Shan gave enough swing to cut through flesh of Sun Yuan Ci's?.. No, the sword would cut straight across the throat of Liu Bei, making sure that his death was inevitable..the pathetic stab of the T'se Lord could be healed, but now? Hopeless.. "All one needs is one swipe" Blurted the voice of an unfamiliar Liu Shan, expressing the insanity in which harboured itself within Chao Cuo. The force of the swing was enough to have Liu Bei's blood hurled onto the robes of Liu Shan, whilst Chao Cuo in control, the middle finger rubbed off the blood and instead, placed it upon his tongue taking in the taste of his own father's blood. "No longer a hinderance....to what I desire." It could not be hidden through growing crackles of laughter, insanity fully sunk within the blood.
A clank, the sword dropped and the figure of Liu Shan was appoaching the entrance to the banquet, a plan in place and had no intentions to involve Yan Yu; the snake's poison forced to leave the blood through the ghostly touch. 'Good, continue such and great rewards shall be yours.. They shall bow, all of them to your great power.. In which, my bone can be found, buried so I can bring chaos upon those within the Heavens who caused my death.' The voice haunted however, Shan was now merely a vassal frame for the greater evil; the former confidant of Emperor Jing, Minister Chao Cuo... Outside, the direction for Liu Shan? Down the steps and to travel to Shu, some taking over was in order...
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Post by Wei Yan on Sept 22, 2008 18:30:34 GMT -5
Fighting was breaking and spreading like wildfire. The regional lords were yelling at each with calmed voices. They were all false now. It seemed the only one that remained true to his colors was Sun Liao. Sun Yuan Ci had spread the proganda of peace, even won the heart of the Beast, just to slay the King of Han Zhong. Sun Jian had came merely to let his pirate flaunt words of ignorant rumors. It was true the Beast hated The Cowardly King, but in all honesty, his moral compass had hoped for peace. This pirate was without a thought in the world but his own arrogance. Even the boy Liu Shan had acted. This banquet had brought out the worst in everyone. Even the beast had bent to the will of Sun Yuan Ci when he wished to aid in "Opening the Door to Peace."
Most would have thought the Beast would roar or bare arms, but he stood silent for a long time, watching assassin's overcome and destory the Cowardly King of Han Zhong. I challenged him to come... I roared in his very face, nearly forcing him to come... I even tried to steal his prime minister... One of the blades might as well have been my spear, thought the Beast, but he couldn't speak. Hell, for a moment he couldn't breathe, but that moment was very short.
Sighing, the beast just turned and made his way toward the doors into the banquet hall. His spear tapped lightly against the ground as he walked, his weight slightly on it. The doors couldn't have came fast enough. Pushing them open, he gave a faint, welcoming roar to the night air. It felt... beautiful. It felt like a release. The Beast stood there, atop the steps, his spear strong at his side and his eyes towards the stars of the night. Again he sighed. A self-hate coursed through his veins. Lu Rai would have known what to do, but he was an infant again. Then he was a beast. With a boasting roar the Beast was alive again, but he wasn't going back into the Banquet hall. He didn't have anything to say to any of the men in that room, besides Sun Liao, but it could wait.
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Post by Sun Liao on Sept 23, 2008 1:00:55 GMT -5
The men ceased from attacking the woman, yet all was not well in the hall. Wei Yan had made his way out the door and left. This did not sit well with Sun Liao, it seemed at last the two friends could finally be united under one banner, but that dream was quickly fading from the turn of events.
Yuan will be ok, there are too many guards for him to be in danger, I must pursue Wei Yan and convince him to come back, at least for Liu Shan. He seems to be losing a mental struggle, I fear for the young lord.
"Pang! Defend Lord Liu Shan, I must make haste to follow Wei Yan."
"Yes lord."
"Man, this could not have gone any worse."
Sun hastily makes his way out the door pursuing Wei Yan.
"Wei wait!"
Sun looks around, no luck, only an outline of his shape in the distance, spear being dragged behind him. Sun sighs and begins chasing after him.
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