The Azure Dragon soars above the Cherry Tree in the night sky, marking this a particularly auspicious Spring for new ventures. And, though it is yet still early spring, and the snows of winter have yet to leave northern Lingshen, here, in the southern province of Yan, the air is cool and slightly damp with the promise of rejuvenating spring rains on the horizon. Although the sun is high in the hour of the Ogre, it rests easy on your heads. Clearly, Magistrate Zhou Kui Xing showed great wisdom with his request to meet on the 8th day of the 3rd month in the Year of Rising Blossoms.
As requested, each of you has come to the Pavilion of the Eternal Song stands tall and proud at the center of Waigongshu, the provincial capital of Yan province. Ancient histories tell that the Pavilion of the Eternal Song was once the palace of a powerful warlord who styled himself King of Yan before the foundation of Imperial Lung Wa. The histories say that King Yan was a fierce warrior, given little to the finer pursuits of art and music, until he met a simple woman playing her liuqin beneath a juniper tree. Her song was so beautiful, they say he fell to his knees before her and wept for three days listening to her play, never moving from the spot. After she finished singing, he commanded his palace be built in this spot, that her song never leave him. His rule became one of wisdom and integrity, and he was counted one of the wisest of the ancient kings.
Even to this day, those who govern Yan province are said to be the most loyal and just servants of the King. Governor Chen Xiuande is no exception. They say he whipped his eldest son for spurning an arranged marriage with a daughter of a noble house from the northern counties. The woman was of a lower house, so there was less honor in the marriage than was due someone of Chen Zhanshi’s standing. But, the family was a loyal retainer of house Chen, and had personally been requested by King Huan as a reward for exemplary service in the border wars with Kaoling. Chen Xuande had offered his life as forfeit to balance the shame to his house, but King Huan ordered Xiunade to find another match for the woman and to pay her dowry. No one has seen or heard from Chen Zhanshi since. But, the warrior had promised revenge on House Chen and King Huan’s dynasty.
The iron-studded teak gates stand open flanked by four guards in lamellar proudly holding nodachi at the ready. The gates lead into a wide corridor with a high roof. Twenty more guards line the walls on each side of the corridor. The light from numerous oil lanterns suspended from the center of the ceiling illuminate the otherwise dreary stone confines of this path. A cautious look up reveals obvious murderholes pierce the ceiling. Any invaders would find the Palace of Eternal Song very difficult to silence.
Beyond this corridor is the open courtyard and the famous juniper tree, now grown gnarled and twisted with age. Its branches caress the roof tiles, and hundreds of birds sing brilliant songs in its eaves. The tree is surrounded by an artful rock garden that fills most of the courtyard. A functionary in pale blue and grey robes--the colors of House Chen--leads you up a small flight of stairs at the left of the corridor and along a veranda and down another corridor that opened to a smaller paved courtyard and a small enclosed pavilion. Four guards flank the oak doors of this building, and the functionary bows and opens the door, announcing your presence to the magistrate.
Zhou Kui Xing sits at a dark table at the far end of the single room in the pavilion. Beside him, stands a functionary with a silver hairpin, as opposed to the wooden ones of the other functionaries who brought you and quickly left. He looks at you with bland, unassuming brown eyes. Guards stand in each corner of the room. If Zhou Kui Xing registers your presence, he doesn’t let on. He seems completely engrossed in the letter he writes. He’s a stern looking man, his face weathered by years of service to King Huang. His gray beard and mustache are clipped short and tight to his face, and his hair is swept back and bound tight in a topknot.
Tsui Dawei was a soldier. He had no court dress. But as the magistrate of the rightful emperor, Governor Zhou deserved the fullest respect. Dawei cleaned himself and his raiment as thoroughly as he could before presenting himself. On arriving, he fell to his knees and bowed, touching his brow to the floor nine times. On the last, he raised his head from the floor, but did not permit his eyes to leave it.
He did not speak or rise until given leave.
Jade Moon walked beside Jian Xi with a graceful gait, making sure to stay close. Her black slippers allowed for silent foot fall. She meticulously put herself together making sure to be presentable. She had dressed herself in a hanfu darker than any night bound by a silk sash embroidered with silver moons and green moths. From her porcelain neck clings a simple jade bead necklace with a silver moon pendant. With each step the scent of jasmine and lotus wafted faintly from her hair. She scanned her surroundings carefully, taking in every detail she could. Her large green, almond-shaped eyes landed on the old Juniper. A soft gasp escapes her lips while her hand searches that of her husband's. Squeezing Jian Xi's hand with excitement she whispers,
"Look! What an old and wise tree this majestic juniper is!" She looks up at him with a spark in her eyes. "How I wish we could moon-view beneath it one day"
She lingered for another moment then continued on towards the pavilion. She relished the splendor around her. For some reason the sight of the functionals ushering them into the pavilion made her slightly intimidated. A wave of nervousness traced her mind but was quickly dispelled by drawing herself closer to Jian Xi. Although she married a human, other humans at times could make her nervous; making her inner fox more present. She collects herself by putting an unrevealing face to conceal her waves of emotion. Upon entering she sees a soldier in a fixed bowing position reminding her of her own manners. She respectfully lowers herself to a bow and tugs gently on her husband's garment so that he follows suit.
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Good omens line our path this day, the man thought, observing the Juniper tree serenely in the cool spring air. He stood clad in a black warrior's kimono, hair held in the fashion of the Shen.
Zhou Kui Xing knew who he was, and for that reason (and the Clan's order) was he here. He headed to the pavilion behind the quiet dignitary, following protocol to the letter, and waited to be spoken to, keeping his gaze from wandering--if he recognized someone, it does not show now.
Jian Xi makes a strong counter to his wife's fluid dancer-like grace. His swordsman's swagger was more like a predatory wolf than anything else. His gold flecked amber eyes endlessly rove the guards and he eyes the murderholes suspiciously. His jian is slipped through one of the many loops of his sash held at just the right tilt to allow the blade to be easily drawn as his hand rests casually on its hilt.
His black and red garb stands out amongst all the blue and grey clad servants and functionaries. His eyes do widen in surprise at the sight of the juniper tree. His stern expression softens as Jade Moon's hand falls into his own like the softest silk. "Meh, its a big gnarled tree not sure whats so amazing about that.." He says with a loving smile towards his wife as he puts his free hand around her waist, drawing her close and ignoring the slightly scandalized looks of the servants.
As they continue their seemingly useless and endless march through the palace they finally arrive at their destination. As the functionary bows and announces their presence to the magistrate, Jian Xi notices and ignores the soldier already kneeling on the ground. He feels his wife tugging on his sleeve, he grips his sword in one hand moving it to the side as he also bows. He can feel annoyance at having to bow before one just because of birth. As his master had always said "true honor is earned not born or bought".
Hu Xiang Lun followed the functionary through the palace, pleased with the omens he had seen this night. Signs of new beginnings and growth fill me with confidence. Truly this endeavor will be successful. As he entered the pavilion, he offered a shallow bow to the functionary, not as deep as the other's. Then turned his attention to the juniper tree. [i]Perhaps once I am stronger, I will be able to return here, and give the tree new life.[/i[
The guards' eyes narrow as Jian Xi walks through the palace with his hand lightly resting on his sword hilt. Their knuckles tighten on their guandao, but they do not break formation. They are truly honorable and disciplined soldiers of Lingshen! The functionary doesn't seem to notice, or care, and guides the couple through a river of ever-thickening tension until they come to the juniper tree.
Lady Jade Moon's large green, almond-shaped eyes landed on the old Juniper. A soft gasp escapes her lips while her hand searches that of her husband's. Squeezing Jian Xi's hand with excitement she whispers,
"Look! What an old and wise tree this majestic juniper is!" She looks up at him with a spark in her eyes. "How I wish we could moon-view beneath it one day"
Jian Xi's stern expression softens as Jade Moon's hand falls into his own like the softest silk. "Meh, its a big gnarled tree not sure whats so amazing about that.." He says with a loving smile towards his wife as he puts his free hand around her waist, drawing her close and ignoring the slightly scandalized looks of the servants.
The functionary gasps in shock at the brazen display of affection, but he hides it well. It's only Jade Moon's quick ears that catch the action for what it is, and not the sound of a fan opening to cover his mouth as he bows slightly. Perhaps, the fan is why he does better at hiding his displeasure at Jian Xi's lack of interest for the tree.
"The Tree of Countless Blossoms is said to be the same tree the young maiden sat beneath when King Yan built the Palace of the Eternal Song. It is nearly 700 years old. A true beauty and testament to the rightness of King Huang's rule, that such storied and esteemed treasures thrive beneath his auspicious rule." The functionary bows again and leads the couple towards the Zhou Kui Xing.
Hu Baolin's mind is on the stars, as it often is. The auspices of the constellations show him great favor. Only a single day shy of his twenty-fourth birthday, Baolin stands at the precipice of greatness. Three years of border skirmishes between his noble house and the Ma were filled with great fortune, though skillful management of supplies and logistics are not the sort of stories that fill the family zupu. This new assignment offers a unique honor and glory for him and for his family. He gazes up into the night sky from the grounds of the Chen compound, grateful for their hospitality.
"The Azure Dragon is in flight this night, qinglong," Baolin speaks. "A good omen for us." He would seem to be speaking to himself if anyone were watching, but his gracious hosts have given him ample privacy.
"Great fortune, indeed." The voice seems to be spoken on the wind, ephemeral yet imposing and authoritative. "The time that I foretold is here. You have been a most gracious host for nearly a full turn of the zodiac. The balance has begun to be restored. I begin my true return to the world tomorrow. I am expected in Quain, but I will not appear. They will be surely disappointed. It cannot be helped."
Baolin brings his gaze down from the heavens to the earth. The Chen compound is a beautiful and calming place, with each tree and dip in the landscape designed to maximize the flow of energy. "I hope that you will grant your blessings to Lingshen once you have into the Tianlong."
"I have the same hope," laughs the voice. "We will have to see. I am but one of five aspects of a greater whole. As the Heavens turn, we will know more about the future, but fortune favors you. This endeavor begins in the season of wood, on the day of your birth. Should you prove yourself most worthy of all five hosts, I will have no choice but to honor you and your nation with my blessing. I have faith that you will succeed beyond even the most sanguine predictions."
Hu Baolin walks confidently through the Palace. The functionaries treat him with respect, clearly recognizing his station through his armor. He wears the white and blue robes of the Hu over his lamellar armor, identifying himself as both a warrior and as a member of the Hu family. He remains respectful to the functionaries, knowing that displaying magnanimity to all is vital to maintaining good relations with others. He had ensured that he left the Chen family in good graces, having successfully concluded the gift ceremony with his hosts earlier in the day; he hoped that they would find his eight bags of tea from exotic Minkai an acceptable gift for their hospitality.
Baolin stops at the great juniper tree. The functionary stops with him, allowing him to bask in its beauty. "Excuse me, please," Baolin asks the guide. "I beg a minute of time to ponder the great tree before me." The functionary bows, apparently pleased that someone is properly appreciating the great tree. Baolin sits directly in front of it, putting his hands on his thighs with his legs tucked underneath. He begins to breathe steadily and rhythmically, letting his ki energy flow properly through his body. He closes his eyes, pondering the confluence of this tree and the omens from the night before. His mind calls to the stars of the sky, hidden as they are, and beckons them to his side. "Qinglong, friend, I welcome your appearance and your company on this journey."
The wind blows suddenly from the east into the courtyard. From behind the great juniper, a dragon emerges. It is small - perhaps the size of a small horse - but clearly a sky dragon. Shimmering stars fleck its azure scales, as clear as the sky on a dark and clear night. It floats in the air serenely, even as the four guards and the functionary seem shocked and awed by the creature in front of them. The guards coil as if ready to strike, but maintain their discipline. "Do not be afraid," speaks the dragon. "This is a great omen for you - and Baolin, open your eyes."
Baolin opens his eyes as instructed, standing as he does. When he turns to face the functionary and the guards, they see the constellations in his eyes rather than their normal color. His eyes faintly glow blue, as do the eyes of the dragon, and a hidden birthmark on his chest glows similarly under his robes and armor. "I apologize for causing you any alarm. This is qinglong, my linked companion. Please announce him as well." He stands waiting for the door to be opened, as it would be impolite to barge in (especially with a dragon in tow), even though he knows that he is the last of the group to make his entrance.
The doors boom open and the functionary steps in with a bow. "Hu Baolin, hero of the Hu-Ma conflict!" The functionary bows and leaves, closing the doors behind him.
Zhou Kui Xing finally looks up from his paperwork as Hu Baolin is announced and nods to his official beside him. The official opens a scroll and reads in a clear voice. "Hu Baolin, hero of the battle of the Rivers and Mists who claimed territory from the Ma of Qin Province; Teacher Hu Xiang Lun of the Five Elements Academy; Jade Moon and Jian Xi, student of Master Shen Feng; Narukami Hayashi and Tsui Dawei, loyal soldiers of King Huan, you are in the presence of Zhou Kui Xing, Faguan of Governor Chen Xiuande." He pauses, and keeps his head bowed.
"Each of you has shown great merit and dedication in your service to King Huan." Zhou Kui Xing's voice is deep and commanding, more accustomed to shouting commands over the din of battle than discussing politics in a state room. "Go north to Shenmen and survey the land adjoining Lingshen, pacify the region and claim it as a vassal realm of King Lingshen. This will, of course, be seen as a declaration of war in the eyes of Shenmen. You will need to establish forts and militia. Other nations may seize the moment to claim land as well. It would not be in the King's interests to engage in a land war with any other nations at this time." The functionary steps forward and presents Hu Baolin with King Huan's mandate, and Zhou Kui Xing returns to his papers.
"Rise!" The functionary opens the doors. The dismissal is clear.
Xiang watched as his cousin, Hu Baolin, entered the room with what was clearly a creature of magic. Two members of House Hu assigned to this expedition. Clearly, our family has been greatly blessed. Though he had only met his cousin a few times before, he was nevertheless aware of the honor that had been placed on their House - just as he was aware of the disgrace that would come should they fail.
AS Zhou Kui Xing rose and spoke, Xiang listened and pondered his words. North, to Shenmen. A land populated by monstrous creatures, who keep humans as slaves. And we are to establish a vassal state of Lingshen there? This may be a greater undertaking than I initially thought. Still, six of us against a nation...we must truly prove our worth if we are to have any chance of success.
Once Zhou Kui Xing had finished speaking, Xiang walked over to Baolin and, with a formal bow, said, "I greet you, cousin. I had not known that others of our house had been summoned as well."
Hu Baolin accepts the mandate with both hands, bowing in thanks as he receives it from the functionary. The somewhat imperious style of Zhou Kui Xing is not unexpected, though he hopes that the written mandate will include more specific information. He would not dishonor the senior magistrate by opening and reading it in his presence. He tucks it away in his robes and gives the older man a slight bow with his left hand wrapped over his right fist. Qinglong doesn't seem to mind being slighted by the official greeting, but he does not bow or acknowledge the men.
As they exit the office, Baolin sizes up his new comrades in the shadow of the great tree. Once freed from the strict etiquette of dealing with the magistrate, he offers a genuine smile to the group - especially his cousin, Xiang Lun. "We are greatly honored with the trust of King Huang, both as individuals and for our family. May we bring honor upon them and upon the King. I have been in the field for some years now. I recall when you left to train as a magician, but you must have shown tremendous promise to be entrusted with this mission. I saw your brother during the battles with the Ma; he is a skilled warrior, much as you are a skilled mage."
He turns his attention to the others. "I recall you as well, Hayashi-san." Having been to Minkai, Baolin knows the basic honorifics of the proud people that live there. "You served the Hu family with courage and skill during the war with the Ma. I am greatly pleased to have your talents with us on this expedition." He notes with interest the awed way that the shinobi looks at the dragon.
"I am pleased to make your acquaintance," he says to the others with a slight bow. "This may be our first opportunity to meet, but I have gazed in the stars and seen a great confluence of great fortune." His glowing eyes seem an endless void of stars as he speaks of the heavens. "Let us make an oath beneath this, the Tree of Countless Blossoms, and in the presence of the great dragon who graces us with its presence, to the quest which we are about to embark upon. From this day forward, we shall join forces for a common purpose: to save the troubled and to aid the endangered. We shall protect our nation above, and bring peace to the citizenry below. We seek not to be born on the same day, in the same month and in the same year. We merely hope to die on the same day, in the same month and in the same year. May the gods of the skies and earth attest to what is in our hearts. If we should ever do anything to betray our friendship, may the heavens and the people of the earth both strike us dead."
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Narukami left with the rest, wearing his shoes when leaving Zhou Kui Xing's pavilion.
"I recall you as well, Hayashi-san.
The man bowed his head, making a honorary sign with his right hand. "This humble soldier is honored by your trust, Lord Hu," he answered.
"Let us make an oath beneath this, the Tree of Countless Blossoms, and in the presence of the great dragon who graces us with its presence, to the quest which we are about to embark upon. From this day forward, we shall join forces for a common purpose: to save the troubled and to aid the endangered.
We shall protect our nation above, and bring peace to the citizenry below. We seek not to be born on the same day, in the same month and in the same year. We merely hope to die on the same day, in the same month and in the same year. May the gods of the skies and earth attest to what is in our hearts. If we should ever do anything to betray our friendship, may the heavens and the people of the earth both strike us dead."
"Indeed. May our shared future be glorious," he said, looking to the tree with a peaceful smile.
Outright war? Narukami thought silently, recognizing the great Hu Baolin and his 'fellow soldier' Tsui Dawei.
If so...the throne's will shall be done.
1)you can ask him about those questions. Although, it'd be rude to say "give me lots of money!"
2) shenmen is an odd grey area. Technically, it's a sovereign nation. It has a ruler, political identity, etc. Its ruler is a giant shape-changing monster woman, and it's people are oppressed humans with a ruling class of (literall) monsters. It's a nation that everyone wants gone, but no one was willing to make the first move. If one person moves, that gives license for others to, as well.
3) Lingshen can't provide too much overt aid. Once things have started moving, it can help more. But, for now, you'll be on your own.
"Let us make an oath beneath this, the Tree of Countless Blossoms, and in the presence of the great dragon who graces us with its presence, to the quest which we are about to embark upon. From this day forward, we shall join forces for a common purpose: to save the troubled and to aid the endangered.
We shall protect our nation above, and bring peace to the citizenry below. We seek not to be born on the same day, in the same month and in the same year. We merely hope to die on the same day, in the same month and in the same year. May the gods of the skies and earth attest to what is in our hearts. If we should ever do anything to betray our friendship, may the heavens and the people of the earth both strike us dead."
"I swear it under the gaze of the Heavens," Tsui Dawei said at once.
Hu Baolin accepts the mandate with both hands, bowing in thanks as he receives it from the functionary. The somewhat imperious style of Zhou Kui Xing is not unexpected, though he hopes that the written mandate will include more specific information. He would not dishonor the senior magistrate by opening and reading it in his presence. He tucks it away in his robes and gives the older man a slight bow with his left hand wrapped over his right fist. Qinglong doesn't seem to mind being slighted by the official greeting, but he does not bow or acknowledge the men.
As they exit the office, Baolin sizes up his new comrades in the shadow of the great tree. Once freed from the strict etiquette of dealing with the magistrate, he offers a genuine smile to the group - especially his cousin, Xiang Lun. "We are greatly honored with the trust of King Huang, both as individuals and for our family. May we bring honor upon them and upon the King. I have been in the field for some years now. I recall when you left to train as a magician, but you must have shown tremendous promise to be entrusted with this mission. I saw your brother during the battles with the Ma; he is a skilled warrior, much as you are a skilled mage."
He turns his attention to the others. "I recall you as well, Hayashi-san." Having been to Minkai, Baolin knows the basic honorifics of the proud people that live there. "You served the Hu family with courage and skill during the war with the Ma. I am greatly pleased to have your talents with us on this expedition." He notes with interest the awed way that the shinobi looks at the dragon.
"I am pleased to make your acquaintance," he says to the others with a slight bow. "This may be our first opportunity to meet, but I have gazed in the stars and seen a great confluence of great fortune." His glowing eyes seem an endless void of stars as he speaks of the heavens. "Let us make an oath beneath this, the Tree of Countless Blossoms, and in the...
"Under the boughs of this great symbol of both my power and new beginnings, I swear to uphold this pledge."
Jian Xi unfolds his arms as Baolin finishes speaking. "You have my word." He says as he bows his head slightly. "Since the magistrate's introductions were quite short should we go somewhere and talk? After all it seems like some of you already know each other, if we are to rely on one another we should learn what to expect."
A spark of excitement begins to rush around in her chest. Her breath quickened but only for a moment. She smiles at everyone, then bows. "You also have my word. May the heavens smile down on our journey." This was an oportunity to restore honor to her people as well as pave the way for a brighter future with her husband. Fighting for a better world for others is a noble cause she could wake up each day and face. The threads of fate begin to weave a tapestry that she is happy to be part of with her husband.
Hu Baolin and Hu Xiang Lun both know of a ryokan just to the north of Waigongshu. They know it's a quiet, reserved place. The staff is discrete and the food is good. They have a hot bath, fueled by a magical stone. The inn itself has been run by the same family for over fifty generations. It is the perfect place to discuss an invasion of a nation.
"We have given our oaths to the success of this mission, from which we cannot turn from. Let us turn to the planning of our endeavor, as it is known that the success or failure of a quest lays in the extent to which preparations are properly made. Come, friends and comrades. We shall go to a nearby ryokan where we can speak plainly as friends. Follow us," he says with a flourish. He leads them through the city, catching the marveling gaze of onlookers as the dragon follows by his side. Children point in wonder at the sight of the creature, with superstitious women thanking the gods for the omen of good fortune. Hu Baolin cannot help but smile at the interest they show in him and qinglong. As far as first impressions go, the company of a dragon is second to none.
Just north of the town, they arrive at the inn. A few words with the proprietor and they are brought to a private meeting area. They quickly receive tea. The owner is about to pour it for them when Baolin stops him. "Allow me," he says quietly. The owner bows deeply and exits, sliding the door closed behind him. Baolin starts pouring tea for each of them in turn, getting to his own cup last. He tells a story as he pours. "It is said that our wise King Huang travels in disguise through his empire from time to time. His most trusted attendants traveled with him, but were told to keep his identity a secret. In one of these trips, he poured his own tea and that of his servants. Grateful but unable to express his gratitude in the traditional manner, the servants silently bent three fingers on the table to show that they would bow in any way that they could. I tell you this story not to call you servant - but rather to demonstrate that there are times in which it is not appropriate to follow every protocol. We are about to travel to a dangerous, wild place in need of taming, and this will be the same sort of time. As we made an oath beneath the greatest juniper tree in Lingshen, we did so as friends and equals."
With the tea poured, he sits back and drinks from his cup. The brew is excellent, both sweet and bitter in equal complements. He draws the mandate from his robes and unfurls it. "Now, let us read what our King has called us to accomplish."
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Hayashi resists the urge to bend his head, and lets out a deep breath, after drinking his tea with both hands.
"I fear that we shall come upon rivals from other nations," he said, biting back 'Lord Hu' in favor of: "Baolin: If all countries in this earthly realm hereby treat Shenmen as a yuè bĭng, we must determine what to do when other banners march upon lands we hereby claim--should we declare vassalage, or conceal it until the time is ripe and our strength sufficient to deter opportunists and thieves? Let us speak plainly--the step we pass beyond the boarder is where our King's authority ends."
Xiang listened as Baolin told his story, and raised his cup of tea in salute upon its conclusion. My cousin appears to have learnt much of leadership over the years. He wishes us to be equals - though we may find ourselves reverting to old habits soon enough.
As Hayashi asks his question, Xiang thinks for a moment and says, "If other countries should choose to launch their own invasions of Shenmen, we shall perhaps look to diplomacy rather than war or intimidation. Perhaps they can be brought under our banner, or prove steadfast allies against the jorogumo. After all, those monsters will not give up the land they have stolen and the people they have enslaved simply because we walk in with piece of paper signed by The Most Exalted King Huang."
Dawei listened and pondered for a long moment before speaking.
"Should we declare ourselves, then if we fail we will shame the King with our deeds. His enemies would think his servants weak. His vassals may rise, thinking him incapable of suppressing them. Better that we perish with our deeds unheralded than cast a shadow on his Person. When we succeed, we can speak of our mandate and the success it has given us."
"I beleive its best if we announce our selves, let the remaining human population know they aren't abandoned. Otherwise we seem like bandits skulking about no better than those we are to take control from." Jian Xi says after taking a sip from his tea.
"I beleive its best if we announce our selves, let the remaining human population know they aren't abandoned. Otherwise we seem like bandits skulking about no better than those we are to take control from." Jian Xi says after taking a sip from his tea.
"They will know us by our deeds, which can be secret to no one in the forsaken land. With our success and righteous rule, we will show them what our words could not and which they may not believe, though the words came from the King himself."
Baolin sips his tea, listening to the lively debate. He looks over at qinglong, who quietly watches the human interactions in front of them. They share a look of understanding between themselves, as if to signal their agreement that they are on the right path. "The best tea ceremony does not announce the taste of the tea before it is poured. The taste speaks for itself. We needn't draw attention to ourselves - and by extension, King Huang - prior to establishing a hold on the territory and clearing it of monsters and banditry. My cousin is correct as well. We will not, at first, have the strength to invite challengers. It will take time, and we must have allies behind us to succeed."
Jade Moon listens quietly to each opinion. She takes delicate sips of the tea while holding the cup daintily in her hands like a proper lady. "Perhaps gentlemen it really would be best to do this in a discreet manner. There is some wisdom in letting others see your actions before hearing your words." She takes another sip then softly places the tea cup down. She fixes the sleeves of her hanfu looking at Jian Xi and gives him a nod as if to say she was about to reveal herself. "The last thing we need is to draw unnecessary attention to ourselves. Perhaps this where I can be of some use to you." She stands up lifting the hem of her gown and slides off her silk slipper to reveal her fox foot. She then gently removes her hair pin revealing a pair fox ears in a matching shade. "I can always offer my services to you as a spy. The face of a fox is like the inconstant moon." With those words her face shifts, taking on that of a fox's. With a flash her face was back to normal and the ears disappeared back into her hair leaving no trace.
Jian Xi shows a moment of worry before nodding back at Jade Moon. He watches their new allies as her transformation is completed watching for any signs of anger or worry. Now they know our secret let's see how they take it. He thinks quietly to himself.
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The man bowed his head in acknowledgement of his allies' opinions, and said, drawing upon his training, "We can truly achieve both--our name needn't be declared at first, but we must have a name. Might I suggest declaring ourselves as conquerors? 'Suffer no beast under Heaven to suppress Tian Xia's children' will bring the hearts of the smallfolk to us. Order attracts Man, as the Heavenly Scrolls say--should we show compassion for others, honesty in our duty, propriety in our conduct and integrity in our dealings, surely the Heavens shall grant us prosperity.
Our 'alliance' and subsequent vassalage with King Huang can seem as a spur of the moment once the states of the land flood Shanmen. Through deceit, we honor our King and fulfill our Duty."
After declaring his plan, Hayashi bows his head to the rest, awaiting their judgement.
"Perhaps gentlemen it really would be best to do this in a discreet manner. There is some wisdom in letting others see your actions before hearing your words.
The last thing we need is to draw unnecessary attention to ourselves. Perhaps this where I can be of some use to you.
I can always offer my services to you as a spy. The face of a fox is like the inconstant moon."
Under Jade Moon's reveal, Hayashi's eyes widened, but then returned in well-bred surprise.
He put his hands together, bowing slightly in his seat, "Daughter of Daikitsu, you honor us by your trust to reveal yourself."
Dawei started at the display, but kept his hands clear of his weapons. The king had chosen for his reasons and it was not the place of a solider to question them.
"Thank you for trusting us with your secret," he said. "I do not think that I have met one of your people before."
Baolin tries his best not to act surprised - after all, who is he to say what constitutes an odd ability when his own soul is fused with that of an immortal dragon? He nods in recognition of the difficulty of showing one's true face. "It is said that we wear three masks. The first, we show to the world as we wish to be seen. The second, we show to our family alone. The last, we show only to ourselves. It seems that it is more literal for you."
Jade Moon lets out a sigh of relief and let's her shoulders relax. She takes her seat again and takes a deeper sip of her tea. She breaks formality for just a moment and smiles at each person at the table. "I was a bit worried about revealing myself, afraid I would become a pelt for a rug or belt. My kind are known for trickery through disguise and not all favor us. I felt it necessary to reveal my true nature to the ones willing to die beside me in our endeavor." She bows and then resumes speaking, "although we Kitsune hide ourselves behind many faces, we value and treasure honesty and loyalty above all else." She looks over at Jian Xi with great relief in her eyes. Had it not been for him she would have never gained the courage to speak so freely to others. She would still be a shy fox hiding in her den.
Xiang's eyes widen as Jade Moon reveals herself. One of the Kitsune? I have not had a chance to meed one. I must learn what I can of them, since the Heavens have blessed me with this opportunity. Out loud, he says, "I am most honored to journey with one of your kind. Perhaps, as we travel, you can tell me more of your people."
Hearing Hu Xiang Lun's kind words make her feel more at ease and happy. Her face lights up as she speaks, "Thank you so much for your kind words. I feel that I am the one honored to have such wonderful new friends. I will not only tell you about my people but one day will be more than happy to introduce you to my village. They may be shy at first but they warm up quickly. Do not be surprised if they insist on feeding you until you are unable to walk anymore. The ladies of the village tend to cook great amounts for new guests. Our belief is to come empty and leave full. The first time Jian Xi came to meet my people, he left looking like an over stuffed dumpling." she hides a small laugh behind her sleeve recounting that night.
The ryokan is a charming inn a double-hour's ride north of the Waigongshu*. It sits on two sides of a small rocky river. The ofuro are on the western side, and the main entrance is on the eastern side, facing the sun. Each room has a sliding wall of rice paper that can be opened for easy access to the veranda that encircles a communal rock garden, complete with benches and sozu. Currently, the wall is open, providing a lovely breeze and view of the gardens.
The floor is covered in several tatami mats, with lush zabuton cushions arranged around the low tea table. Futon are rolled away for the day. When Hu Baolin and the others entered the room, a nakai placed five yukata and geta on pegs near the door.
She stands up lifting the hem of her gown and slides off her silk slipper to reveal her fox foot. She then gently removes her hair pin revealing a pair fox ears in a matching shade. "I can always offer my services to you as a spy. The face of a fox is like the inconstant moon." With those words her face shifts, taking on that of a fox's. With a flash her face was back to normal and the ears disappeared back into her hair leaving no trace.
A nakai bringing in more hot water gasps as Lady Jade Moon's face shifts from human to fox, but the woman recovers quickly, and her hand is steady as she places a full kettle on the small table in their room. She bows deeply to Lady Jade Moon and the others, and then slips away without saying a word.
On this Fifth Day of the Third Month of the Year of Rising Blossoms,
King Dao Fan Huang, styled Buxiuwang, by Mandate of Heaven, King of Lingshen, Defender of the Lands of Tian Xia, whereas His loving and well-disposed subjects: Hu Baolin, Hu Xiang Lun, Jade Moon, Jian Xi, Narukami Hayashi, and Tsui Dawei, through faithful and devoted service to His Divine Majesty, has vouchsafed unto them His license to make habitation, plantation, and securance of trade between the Eternal Kingdom Lingshen and Shenmen Province. He further commands the establishment of those foundations necessary for the protection, education, and civilization of those people who have descended into barbarity in these chaotic hours since the fall of Lung Wa from the Zhaoze Hills to the Naoguishan Hills in the north and from the Sea of Ghosts west to the Gossamer Mountains, that those who dwell within may once more enjoy the graces and auspices of Enlightenment.
Waigongshu is the capital of Yen Province, and the seat of the Chen Clan.
They use double-hours in Tian Xia, so 1 hour is really 2 hours.
I'll try and use double-hours as the key term from now on.
Zabuton are cushions that you sit on. They're pretty comfy.
Yukata are loose-fitting kimono for lounging around. Geta are wooden sandals on stilts.
Nakai means 'hotel serving woman'
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King Dao Fan Huang, styled Buxiuwang, by Mandate of Heaven, King of Lingshen, Defender of the Lands of Tian Xia, whereas His loving and well-disposed subjects: Hu Baolin, Hu Xiang Lun, Jade Moon, Jian Xi, Narukami Hayashi, and Tsui Dawei, through faithful and devoted service to His Divine Majesty, has vouchsafed unto them His license to make habitation, plantation, and securance of trade between the Eternal Kingdom Lingshen and Shenmen Province.
He further commands the establishment of those foundations necessary for the protection, education, and civilization of those people who have descended into barbarity in these chaotic hours since the fall of Lung Wa from the Zhaoze Hills to the Naoguishan Hills in the north and from the Sea of Ghosts west to the Gossamer Mountains, that those who dwell within may once more enjoy the graces and auspices of Enlightenment.
"Province of Shanmen," the man said softly, nodding slowly. "It would seem that claiming right by this charter would be prudent after establishing (or claiming) our said trading post. I might know of a post that can be...re-purposed for our needs."
"Hmmm...we will likely need to either locate or persuade others to provide us with the funding and materials to expand this trading post and secure it. Perhaps we shall claim sufficient spoils to do so. I am unsure of how much trading we will be able to do with those who live in Shenmen."
Perhaps we shall draw on the support of the nobles of our land to provide resources. Of course, they will wish something in return. What will he have that they wish to acquire, apart from power and governance of the new province?
Dawei considered the others' words before speaking.
"If we go before the great men of Lingshen now, we go as beggars. We should prove our ability first. Then they will know that they do not risk their honor and wealth on a fool's errand. Worse, they may feel free to place constraints upon us which harm our mission in exchange for the aid they give. Though all should bow to the King's exalted wisdom, many weak and impious men will not take it as their guide."
This post becomes relevant if Hu Baolin decides to unravel and read the charter, of course.
[dice=Knowledge: Local to ID any existing trading posts in the region that might willingly join under our banner]1d20+5
Baolin unfurls the charter, taking a moment to savor the exquisite calligraphy. The hand that wrote the charter was a true expert. Each stroke is masterful, intentional, and filled with meaning beyond the words themselves. He reads it aloud before passing to each individual in turn to see it for themselves. "What an honor has been given to us," he says quietly. "Our first task, it seems, is to create the foundation for a new province. We shall travel along the Auspicious Path of Destiny that links Lingshen and Shenmen; this road will one day be filled with merchants and traders who know it to be safe. Most traders will not send caravans there now, as there are nearly no markets for goods in Shenmen. There is, however, a trading post along the border. We can start there. I believe the proprieters are Bai-Cheng and An-Bao. I also have heard rumors that a so-called king has united the bandits. The markets of Chaidao and Faishen are all but unreachable now."
He knows these things about Shenmen in general: the monstrous rulers of Shenmen are beguiling and tricksome creatures, well skilled in the arts of intimidation, beguilement, and seduction. Any town in this horrid land is most likely in a state of abject fear or they are bewitched by the creatures. They will most likely provide little help to a small trading post. He thinks that Faishen is definitely in the east, and close to the water--perhaps even on the Sea of Ghosts.
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"Our first task, it seems, is to create the foundation for a new province. We shall travel along the Auspicious Path of Destiny that links Lingshen and Shenmen; this road will one day be filled with merchants and traders who know it to be safe. Most traders will not send caravans there now, as there are nearly no markets for goods in Shenmen. There is, however, a trading post along the border. We can start there. I believe the proprieters are Bai-Cheng and An-Bao. I also have heard rumors that a so-called king has united the bandits. The markets of Chaidao and Faishen are all but unreachable now."
"Then let us begin. Should we perform a survey, we might as well start now," the man said, looking to the Lord Hu, which he considered their de facto leader. "Are we ready to move out?"
"I think before we head out into a wild unknown area we should learn a little more about each other and what we are capable of." Jian Xi says as he looks around the table at the people he has sworn to possibly die with. "I guess I'll go first or second since my wife has already told you and shown you some of her skills. I'm a swordsman trained by my late master, but also I am skilled in a variety of weapons he believed that only a fool learns one weapon to the detriment to ones total skill. Though I do prefer the sword. One day I hope to make his spirit proud of my accomplishments."
"Perhaps we should wait till the morning to depart. Our journey shall be far more blessed should we leave with the dawn. As to my skills, I have studied the ancient elemental magic of Wood, as one who embraces that which surrounds him. I seek to expand on my knowledge and can provide support to my allies and detriment to our enemies."
@GM: What is the hour of the ogre?
the periods go like this:
Hour of the Swordsman: 1:00-2:59a
Hour of the Sea (Dragon): 3:00-4:59a
Hour of the Swallow: 5:00-6:59a
Hour of the Ox: 7:00-8:59a
Hour of the Sovereign (Dragon): 9:00-10:59a This is also called the Hour of the Emperor.
Hour of the Ogre: 11a-12:59p
Hour of the Forest (Dragon): 1:00-2:59p
Hour of the Blossom: 3:00-4:59p
Hour of the Dog: 5:00-6:59p
Hour of the Sky (Dragon): 7:00p-8:59p
Hour of the Archer: 9:00-10:59p
Hour of the Underworld(Dragon): 11:00p-12:59a This one is also called the Hour of Spirits.
These are based on the 12 constellations of the Tian Xia sky, and they have important meanings.
I'll post this all in a doc.
"Perhaps we should wait till the morning to depart. Our journey shall be far more blessed should we leave with the dawn. As to my skills, I have studied the ancient elemental magic of Wood, as one who embraces that which surrounds him. I seek to expand on my knowledge and can provide support to my allies and detriment to our enemies."
"The Eternal Emperor guides my aim, his righteous pronouncements descend from the Heavens and I obey them in all things. In the way all are made for His service, I was shaped to use bow and blade. The palest shadow of his wisdom shines upon me."