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Post by Emperor Feng on Jun 7, 2010 19:47:20 GMT
Li Jue found the words of Yuan laughable, to think he was speaking of how much a 'bumbling moron' the Govenor Gongsun was? Was it not he who allowed the coalition to crumble before him, not being able to lead the masses into clear decisions; Cao Cao acted in his on way..where was the true governance? However, this matter was left unattended and the speech of the past ignored; for Li's ears had been pricked by the proposal. It was a couple of days ago that one of his own clansmen came to seek guidance, the General gave him permission to overthrone the man but he objected to such. Now the Heavens have placed this aging idiot before him, smiling to the plans and glancing over the parchment; which, no doubt, was some forgery by Yuan Shao..who could not take one surpassing him too well. "Your presence here is somewhat of a sign." The parchment the Govenor Yuan brought was dropped to the ground..
"You see, a clansmen of the Beiping Govenor, by the name of Gongsun Jieming, has recently approached the Empire on guidance on how he should act; with his small group of followers. Gongsun Zan has yet to pay any tribute, thus turning his back upon the Emperor." Raising his eyebrow, General Li could not help what escaped his lips.. "We have yet to recieve any tribute from yourself, four generations of high office and loyalty shall not be in exchange for such tribute; the Capital is newly established and funds are needed more than ever.. Do not let Govenor Gongsun's actions, be imitated by your esteemed self." Li Jue shifted in his dais, becoming more relaxed. The General knew that Yuan would take great offence to this and most likely blurt some 'noble' paths he has taken in responce, however, he knew that the Govenor would not act rashly before him. To the matter of Gongsun... "We shall give you the decree of Military power against Gongsun Zan, for I have no doubt that his clansmen who has attempted to convince him to pay the tribute shall persuade him to turn upon the Empire."
A gesture of his hand empowered the Imperial scribes to create the Imperial writ, stating that Yuan Shao is given Military power to take invade Beiping on behalf of the Emperor. However, it did not state that Yuan could take all lands under the Govenor, thus Ji was off limits in the view of the Empire.. "Govenor Gongsun has been made enemy of the Empire, if you take him alive then have him brought to the Capital at once; the Court shall place judgement upon him. If he is unfortunately taken down during battle, then it is your business to give him the burial of a traitor." Sturnly looking at Yuan Shao, the scribe passed the Imperial writ to him that had the seal of the Emperor upon it; official and authorised.
"I would advise you to find out what business the young Gongsun Jieming is doing within Beiping; he may become more of a thorn than the Govenor Gongsun for you." Shifting again within the dais. "If that is all Govenor Yuan, then you are permitted to return to your lands for preparation to dispell this 'bumbling moron'."
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Post by Yuan Shao on Jun 7, 2010 20:02:54 GMT
Shao heeded every word, making a notch in an invisible pole for each time the man gave him a backhanded compliment, or let his tongue wag in ways that would result in a more abrasive man to cut it off.
Instead, he took the imperial writ, not even feigning interest in paying his own tribute (tribute was something for peasants). He smiled at Li Jue, and saluted him, knowing when matters would prevail over authority.
"Thank you Li Jue. May your reign as Imperial Advisor last longer than that of your predecessors. Though, we will see how that comes, in time."
Shao stood, obviously a lot of effort put into the motion, and he was immediately surrounded by guards as he dismounted the dais. Together they left the imperial palace, and then on horse out of the gate. As they left Shao took a last look at Chang'An, and shuddered. A foul presence permeated this place, and he knew that without some intervention, there was a good chance that Li Jue would end up as the emperor, or at least one of his sons.
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colby
Full Member
I would rather betray the world, than let the world betray me
Posts: 216
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Post by colby on Jun 7, 2010 20:11:19 GMT
Cao Cao returned once again only several weeks after departing, he had been given the task of gaining the favour of the royal families within Luo Yang aswell as forming an alliance with Lu Bu. He stroked his face, climbing once more out of the vassal that had brought him here, ascending the stairs. Rather then coming back empty handed, he had come with enough to hopefully prove his worth to the man. He laughed, bowing the guards and gaining access. Rather then having to wait for his entrance everytime. He didn't expect to be here for long anyways. The emperor was a busy man and Cao Cao didn't want to waste too much of his time. Without a doubt Guo Si and Li Jue would be around being snakes as usual, he laughed. The two sideshows, hardly clowns in Cao Cao's eyes. He kept his opinions inside his mouth, especially around the Imperial Palace however.. not wishing to promote anything that would lead to his danger. "My lord!"He announced bowing on his knees against, showing the upmost of honour to the man. Even with Cao Cao reaching his late thirties the man refused not to show his Emperor his full support by getting as low as possible. Keeping his head toward the ground infront of him. "Your tasks have been completed to a high standard, i have forged a mighty alliance with Lu Bu who sends his offerings and his favour to you aswell as increasing my relations with Yuan Shao of the north, increasing trade in our northern regions aswell as upholding the Han."Cao Cao said before raising his head up a little. The emperor had offered him a deal he could not refused and had completed it as fast as possible sending his whole forces into action at Luo Yang to assist the clean up of the city. The emperor had merely asked to impress and earn the favour of the royal families.. not something of great difficulty. Cao Cao was already favoured by many of the families of Luo Yang. "Only a few days after leaving you, me and a few of my loyal officers marched to Luo Yang, cleaning the city up and we still are infact. Justice had been enforced by my loyal cousin, Cao Ren. The people are being fed and provided with the resources and sustainability by Tsai Ru, a young man in my service aswell as Zhang He and a young Japanese woman assisting me in the reformation of Luo Yang."Cao Cao finished, hoping to have put his two pennies in for his officers. The work had not been of all Cao Cao's and he wasn't a man to steal other peoples hard work. They had worked together as a team, under Cao Cao indeed but the work had not been all his. Cao Cao hoped this would be enough to prove himself infront of the Emperor as worthy enough for Luo Yang and perhaps a promotion. Luo Yang would take a while, without the position of governor he couldn't use the money to provide the city with the key resources it needed, however he hoped he had become trusted in the eyes of the Han enough to take up this huge responsibility. Yuan Shao and Lu Bu the other rivalling warlords of the north only making it easier by proving themselves merely warmongering idiots, however Cao Cao didn't express this personally.. keeping it back inside his head whilst remaing calm, quiet and collected for the Emperors response. Luo Yang (Restoration)Relations with Lu Bu
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Post by Guan Yu on Jun 7, 2010 20:18:28 GMT
Listening with an arm on his horse and one at his side, Zhang Qin absorbed the questions with head lowered, looking at the dry dirt dressing the ground in front of the captian's feet. Once the captian had finished questioning.
Zhang steadily lifted his gaze to the Captain's eyes, he released his hold on his steed's reins and took a few calm steps forward, stealthily extracting two stones from the pouch behind his right hip, as if he had more identification, while observing the position of the guards around the captain. Releasing a sigh he replied in a disppointing manner, "You could have made this simple...Indeed I am not Tai Ming..."
Throwing one stone left and one right by crossing his arms, they hit the guards to the left and right of the captain square in the faces, drawing blood, in an instant they keeled over covering their faces, and quicker than it take to react, the captain's sword had been extracted from it's scabbard and jabbed into it's owner's chest. As the captain fell a scholary looking gentleman flew out of the gate, as if fleeing.
Turning around to face his horse Qin noticed the stranger's escape at a gallop, he was going too fast to question. Qin's men swarmed into action with their swords overwhelming the stunned guards. Qin mounted his horse, and swinging his spear into readiness he watched his men dealing the guards their answer. One quick thinking guard managed to flee the scene before a sword managed to find it's mark. Zhang cared for him not.
The men swiftly mounted and recieved a brief command from Zhang, "Ten of you come with me, the rest assure this escape point stays available. If something goes bad remember the signal." The men nodded in approval and Zhang sped into the city, which was in chaos, rioting throughout the streets had welcomes numerous fires. Fighting was rampant as troops battle civilians and soldier battled soldier. Clearly things were bad.
Zhang spotted a group of civilians lighting fires behind a large residence, riding over he shouted to them, "What's with all of this rioting? Isn't this an Imperial city?" Zhang Qin's had a hasty additude he wanted something to report before he returned to Yong'an. As he awaiting an answer he looked wearily around, incase some guards would suspect him of directing this riot, as he was mounted and observing arsonists.
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Post by Emperor Feng on Jun 8, 2010 0:30:29 GMT
[Cao, that was slight god-modding, as in previous posts it was stated no one was allowed to see the Emperor; by doing so, you by passed the Palace guards.. So you shall be at the Palace gates, not inside with the Empeor].As Yuan Shao made his swift leave, the General heard news of a skirmish that was occuring outside the Palace grounds, he had a thought that the foolish Warden was to blame. Rising from the raised dais, a great bellow spurted from Li Jue's mouth, the rage could no longer be consumed; action would be done, with any means necessary to place his authority. "Make sure the Emperor's chambers are heavily guarded and locked from outside, we must protect him at all costs. " Trying to calm himself down, his comrade in arms appeared from the double doors and his temperament was of similar substance. Guo Si had heard of the small riots that were caused within the city, they were minor and easy to dispell; however, there was news of another mishap.. "Brother, a man with a unit of 50 armed cavaliers has felled a number of the guards at the city gates; he goes by the name Tai Ming..though I doubt it is his real name." Coutiers stood back when hearing the report, it halted the General from being able to calm the fire that was beginning to consume him; this, simply added fuel to the flames. "What?!"The Warden, small riots and now some fool attacking the gates? Shaking his head, the wrath would be felt and not only to those causing the problems; by all. Gesturing for an Imperial scribe, Li spoke fast. "Have a decree sent out to all, that those who know anything of a 'Tai Ming', especially his true identity must report to the Imperial Court. If they are found hiding such a fugative; their punishment shall be of high treason!" Left to continue the proclomation, the General moved to the outer-parts of the Palace grounds, to where patrolling guards reported that Cao Cao had arrived from a successful take over of the old Imperial City. Another notch upon the chaos that would soon errupt, waving his hand to the guards Li Jue made short of this news. "Tell him to return to his land and restore order within the Capital; the regalia of office shall be sent in due course!"To the walls the two Generals went to observe the 'riots' that were occuring, they were astonished that people could act in such away; this was the Capital City! Li Jue could not speak, the anger was beginning to take its tole and soon the General would explode; causing the wrath to be placed on the populace..something that no one wished to encourage. It was Guo Si to take the lead this time. "Have all Gates sealed! No one shall leave and no one shall enter!!" Order placed, the word sent to each gate with the arrival of 20 Imperial guard at each of the gates; East, West, North and South..no one could escape. Li Jue enjoyed watching the gates being sealed, this was his chance to place the authority upon this city; to find this 'Tai Ming' and make him pay for what he had done..even though it was minimal, all of the hellfire within the General would be placed upon him."Allow Governor Cao to pass through the East Gate, if he attempts to interfer, then have him arrested on grounds of aiding those who began this riot!" Guards act with haste, Guo Si would be lenient if they were slow in orders but, Li Jue detested it; a punishment even the Nether Realm could not provide. Taking deep breaths, they continued to watch the riots at the end of the city; attempting to find some way to end all of this...To the Palace gates 10 guards rushed to the side of Cao Cao, a Captain with a swift tone that did not lack in authority. "The General Li wishes for you to return to your lands through the East Gate, only you are allowed to leave the city; someone under the alias of 'Tai Ming' has set up riots within the city and all Gates are to be sealed." Gesturing for him and his men to leave, it was as if the Captain was pushing the horse he was mounted upon. "We are also to inform you that if you do not leave promptly and take to 'interfering' then you shall be arrested for aiding the riots. Regalia and office shall be sent to you after order has been placed once again with the Capital." From the walls the two Generals took to their horses, both were placed in an ill humour and would not settle until those who caused this had their heads upon poles outside the city. The General Li had the Palace gates opened, for they would venture into the city and stabilise the populace themselves; along with him were: 300 Zhong Swordsmen 500 Zhong Spearmen 500 Zhong Pikemen 200 Zhong Bowmen 500 Zhong CavalryFrom the open gates surged Li Jue and his men, dashing into the rioting townspeople; the sight of which caused the General to crack his whip and have the drums from the Palace beaten..loud pulsating rhythms echoed into the city, of course it would halt those from fighting to see what was happening. Their eyes would be met by the one being they feared most within the city, Li Jue; fire had devoured him..words were not needed, the people stood. "Enough! This is the Capital city, home of His Excellency! Those who continue to riot shall be punished with execution, with 4 generations included!" Eyes widdened, the populace could tell that something had crossed the line; the General had never gone to such a level of punishment before...They ran in panic, scrambling to get into their homes and shelter themselves; some even accusing their neighbours as the cuplrits. "Anyone know some being under the name of 'Tai Ming' must report to the Court, immediatly!! Those who do not, or shelter him, shall be put to execution through torture to the 5th Generation!" Another cracking of the whip, to which poored out another contingent of men; this time, lead by the General Guo Si..behind the unit of men contained: 500 Zhong Spearmen 500 Zhong Cavalry 200 Zhong Bowmen 500 Zhong Pikemen 300 Zhong SwordsmenBoth Generals took to the centre of the city, having their men hold their position and observed as the townsfolk rushed into the abodes; or took to the stables to hide. They knew that this Tai Ming would be left; either no where to hide, or simply pushed aside by the townspeople..not being able to accomodate for him. It would be easy to find this being, who else in the city had 50 Mounted Guards at their disposal?.. "Whoever sees a unit of 50 Cavaliers, speak up and report!! Those who do not, shall be punished; with their eyes!" It was a horrible thought, having their eyes torn from their skull as a punishment? All knew that Li Jue would not jest with this..his anger ready to pounce upon anyone as a prey... "Correct, however, this 'Tai Ming' if you give yourself in; your family and men shall be spared and your punishment just 50 lashes!" Fair punishment, always the lenient one out of the two Generals.. Thus, they waited for the masses to calm and take refuge in their houses; as they searched for the culprit who had an armed entourage with them...Overview of the situation:- All gates have being sealed; so that no one can leave, or enter. [exception of Cao Cao, who can leave but not re-enter]
- At each gate (North, West, East & South) there will be a unit of 20 Imperial Guards.
- The gates to the Palace have been sealed; only Li Jue & Guo Si may enter/leave.
- Cao Cao has been ordered to leave; having the regalia of office sent to him in due course.
- Cao Cao shall be arrested with aiding the riots if he does not leave.
- Zhang Qin 'Tai Ming' and his 10 cavaliers will be sealed within the city.
- Zhang Qin 'Tai Ming' have 40 cavaliers stationed at the South Gate.
- Li Jue & Guo Si, with their men, are stationed around the centre of the city.
Those involved:- Li Jue
- Guo Si
- Zhang Qin 'Tai Ming'
- Cao Cao
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Post by Guan Yu on Jun 8, 2010 3:33:10 GMT
((You'll find the southern gate couldn't have been sealed, as forty cavalry were posted there when I went in with ten.))
Talking the unit of arsonists on a side street near the south gate Zhang Qin, they informed him that they were rebelling against the authority of Li Jue and Guo Si, and the taxes they impose, and the pillaging that happens all too frequently." Qin quickly clasped his hands in thanks and swung his horse around, his ten riders following.
Spear under his arm he galloped to the main street, the soldiers under Li and Guo were massacring the rebellion with force, while Li Jue was almost mockingly asking them to submit. Zhang Qin guided his horse into the center of the main street leading to the gateway leading to the Palace compound, seeing soldiers pouring from the palace he focused in and saw the command standard of Li Jue himself.
Smirking coldly Zhang Qin reached into his pouch and extracted a large stone, and readied it, then eyeing Li Jue he drew his arm to the full then shouted "Go!" Li Jue would be unsuspecting but if he had a quick eye, he could avoid a stone butting him full in the face. Like a homing missile the stone flew through the air...
Meanwhile at the south gate, Zhang Qin's forty cavalry saw troops converging to reinforce the gates, they whistled in union and from afar the additional fifty cavalry sped over in support to help hold the exit.
Assuming the stone hit Li Jue, leaving a message that if you make god bleed, the world will lose hope, hoping to weaken Li Jue's high chair. Zhang Qin turned his unit around and headed for the southern gate, intercepting a unit going to help seal the southern gate, he extracted stones and felled three men with shots, then levelling his spear, he thrust it through the unit captain's left side as he galloped past, his unit slashed at them as they followed their leader.
Meeting with the full body of men assigned to him Zhang Qin shouted, "We've got what we came for, retreat to Yong'an!" Troops started flooding towards the gate at Zhang Qin, as they approached he threw stones felling many. As they drew closer, he spotted archers taking their posts on the city walls he turned and fled. As he turned an arrow whizzed byand brushed his ear, drawing blood. Ignoring the superficial wound Zhang continued his plight, two of his men fell from their horses from arrows the rest pounded on three scouts took arrow in their shoulders, arms or backs, but they pounded on.
They headed for the southern hills quickly, incase Li Jue sent a pursiut force, quickly they dashed for Yong'an.
The Featherless Arrow's little recon mission would not go unnoticed. Zhang had been a frontier general in the Yellow Turban Rebellion in the town of Dongchang, where he took down foorteen rebel chiefs with stones. Li Jue will have no doubt of heard about this General but his history goes blank following Dong Zhuo's usurption. Seen going south one could only assume he served the ruling house...
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Post by Emperor Feng on Jun 8, 2010 4:20:00 GMT
The chaos continued, the populace however had taken refuge and the men under both Generals began to move around the city to secure that the riots had come to a halt; however, the trouble had not ended. At the South Gate the 20 armed men came across the riders who played catalyst to the troubles; thus, they charged spears at the ready to fell the cavaliers. The lead used rocks from a pouch to hurl towards his enemies, the one which was meant for Li Jue was a close hit; as the General moved to closen himself to Guo Si the rock made contact with his shoulder. "What was that?!" The General turned to face the ashocked Li Jue, who had just had a stone thrown at him. At the gate the armed men were pelted with a number of stones, yet they had their own score with archers. Raising the alarm, it was Guo to take heed and rushed in pursuit; for he was closest to the Southern gate.. "Quick, we cannot let them escape!!"
The General Li was infuriated, another rebel escaped from their clutches; however..the gates were finally sealed and with heavy security at that; no one was entering and no one was leaving. Taking a deep breath, Li hoped the Govenor Cao took his heed and left the city, for he could not deal with such a man at this very time. Something had to be done, there was one parchment awaiting for circulation about Wei Feng, soon there would be another about this 'stone hurling' fool who dared rain turmoil upon the Capital. Making his way back into the Palace grounds, it was General Guo who halted some li away from the city. "General, they are heading Southward!" Eyes widened, could it be?.. Turning round he ordered a retreat into the city; without question, Guo Si was given entrace, having the gate resealed after he entered..
In a rage Li, heavy footed, made his way into the main hall for audiences, the council of his men were brought together as they awaited Guo Si's return. "Ungrateful traitors!" The cup of wine that had just been handed to him, was hurled to the wall; serving maids rushed to the aid, cleaning up the mess..not wishing to replace the broken cup incase it was thrown their way. "Brother, we placed pursuit on the cavaliers; they were too far to dispell..however, they headed towards the South." The General Guo stumbled through the doors out of breath, having rushed to to make sure that the Palace gates were all sealed with a large body of men holding each gate. "The South?! You, who has jurisdiction there?" The horse whip still remained in his hand as Li pointed with it towards a fearful official; trembling, he could but answer with haste unless feel the already angered wrath of the General. "Of worth, there is but two; Liu Yan of Chengdu and Liu Bei of Yong'an."
Such made matters worse, the General gave a bellowing roar that made even Guo Si's skin tingle with some sort of unease. "Brother, calm yourself. A small amount of our men were attacked with stones, as you were; it is clear who it is. Govenor Liu Yan is not a foolish man, an attack upon the Capital is not something he would do.. However, Govenor Liu Bei is not a man of intelligence and of course, his men are most likely to resort to objects such as stones; he has no men of worth." Another furious growl left the General's lips, to know that the man who hurled a stone at him was from an Imperial clansmen; not just anyone..but Liu Bei! A simple mat weaver who had no true stable home within his early career. Li turned upon the Imperial scribes, almost spitting each word to them. "Do not just stand there!! Form a decree, that Govenor Liu Bei of Yong'an must hand over the man who placed chaos within the Capital; if he does not. Then he shall be placed at high treason and delt with, like any traitor of the Empire!!!"
Guo Si wished to interrupt, but he too, dared not to say anything..it would not work, he knew that turning against the Imperial lineage would not be worthwhile; sometimes he believed it should have been him who was closest to the Emperor in rank. "Leave, all of your! Send the parchments for both Warden Wei Feng and Liu Bei immediatly. No one shall speak to the Emperor, unless given permission from me. Do you understand?! The gates shall be sealed, both of the city and the Palace; we shall not allow any visitors until I have their heads on a pole!" The court was quick to adjorn, words spread of the fear that circulated around the Palace, Li Jue remained within the main hall..passing to-and-thro trying hard to calm himself down, but every thought upon the occurances today riled him even more...
"General Guo, why did you not speak out? You know as well as I that the General Li has lost his mind! To turn against the Imperial clansmen?! Such sacrilege!" A confidant of Guo Si's ranted while a secret meeting within the General's quarters was had; Li Jue would be known the wiser, stuck in the ciculating anger..he knew him too well. "Do not speak so loud. I agree, General Li has been beguiled by that stupid Throne. It should be I who has authority over him, he goes too far. I dare not speak out, he is like a brother to me." There was something within the General, he no longer saw the same vision as his comrade; their relationship was shattering..Guo did not know if it was jealousy or simple resentment. "General, indeed you should. Perhaps, you could gain the personal favour of one of the regional lords to purge the court of General Li's venomous wasy." The idea had been planted. "I can't.. He is like a, brother, to me.." An honourable statement, but, Guo Si could not help thinking that he would have acted so different from how his comrade was; for instance, stability must come first..not the desires of power. Could he? Could he surely gain the external aid of a Warlord? If so, who?...
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colby
Full Member
I would rather betray the world, than let the world betray me
Posts: 216
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Post by colby on Jun 8, 2010 11:00:55 GMT
Cao Cao stroked his beard being threatened by the men around him that he would be imprisoned if he did not flee from this place. He laughed at the surrounding guards, clearly bringing nothing but a small force of bodyguards with him.. not enough to inspire or even provoke the riots. He had clearly been in the right place at the right time. He cared not about being taking under arrest, it would only escalate things into a better fashion however he had no intentions of fighting with the riots or even against them.
"Hmm, i am nothing but a humble warlord seeking the Emperor i have no intentions of causing trouble. However if the Emperor is in trouble, allow me to assist you."
He smiled, deciding to take full advantage of the situation. Defending Li Jue and Guo Si would win him favour with the two if he could prove himself worthy aswell as the Emperor, with all the gates locked and himself locked inside at this grand occasion he could not flee such a situation. The gruesome duo of Guo Si & Li Jue would only use it against him, exclaiming him to be a heretic or a coward fleeing from the defence of the Emperor.
"Lead me to Guo Si, i have matters to discuss! As a servant of the Emperor i demand it!"
Cao Cao announced, his force was much smaller then the guards around him but he was a powerful man. Some simple guards would not keep him in check. Being arrest would lead to a huge contraversial case upon Li Jue's & Guo Si's hands, he doubted his officers would allow Mengde to be thrown behind bars nor the Emperor to allow such a thing. He stroke his beard discarding the chance of fleeing.
"If the Emperor is in danger, allow Cao Cao to put down these dogs!"
Cao Cao shouted, trying to convince the men to lead him to Guo Si, from there it would all be childsplay.
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Post by Emperor Feng on Jun 8, 2010 12:50:08 GMT
The guards did not wish to break the orders placed against them, as Cao Cao was nothing when compared with the temperament of Li Jue; even if the arrogant fool did not believe so..he had yet to experience it. Looking to one another, they shook their head with each arrogant spurging from the Governor's lips. Within the Court many had become to spread vicious rumour about Cao, for he was related, through adoption, to the eunuch who had become entwined with the corruption that grew within the court from the regular attendants. "By order of the Regent General, we are forbid to give you entrance; return home as ordered." They were stubborn in words, standing as the mountains before him; credit given where credit due, as they were faithful to the orders that were placed upon them.
As the General Li had locked himself within the main hall, word managed to reach the chambers of Guo Si from his confidant; explaining that the Govenor refused to leave and was now ordering to have audience with him. It took much convincing by the official to move his mind, to see what Cao had to say; to just humour the man and he would be gone. From behind the guards, the Palace gates were opened from the inside, standing before them was an official that had the regalia of high office followed by a contingent of men..those who were loyal to the General Guo. "Govenor Cao, your request has been taken to the General himself, through respect for your ancestors I persuaded him to give council. However, he shall recieve you within his personal quarters; you may only be followed by 2 of your men...the rest must wait outside the Palace gates."
If Cao Cao agreed to such terms, he would be given entrace..if not the Gates would merely be sealed again, also when entering the Palace grounds the Official had the gates closed; as not to gain the suspicion of the already angered Li Jue. With haste the official made way through the coutyards that were to the right of the Palace, some place away from the main hall... Li Jue's men were surely patrolling close to the hall and the official did not wish to bring more trouble with this secret meeting; this wing was guarded by Guo's personal men, making the visit safe from rumours and prying eyes. "General Guo, the Govenor of Chenliu, Cao Cao, has come to see you." Sitting on a mat near the window was the General Guo, who was now dressed in courtial attire; though chainmail was hidden within, as a precaution. Men were stationed infront of the chamber and it was clear his security had been stepped up for this private intrusion..as men could be seen via the window to patrol every so often, as well as four guards present in the room and another six within stationed in another room; another precaution. "Why break the order of the General Li to see me Govenor?" Guo's voice was calm and had a sympathetic tone, out of the two it was always he who had a more compassionate heart..though indeed vicious tendencies, it was no lie that he had respect for many; Cao Cao was included in this and treated as an honoured guest...
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colby
Full Member
I would rather betray the world, than let the world betray me
Posts: 216
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Post by colby on Jun 8, 2010 13:18:13 GMT
Cao Cao remained firm, even amongst the men of armour and steel. People so willing to remove him and throw away the key, he protests for the right to speak out. Refusing to move, soon enough his prayers were answered and Guo Si answered the call. The terms weren't too bad, considering Guo Si was of a higher rank then him amonst the lords. He bowed his head, only selecting two of his guards before leaving the rest at the gate to tend to his carriage before entering behind the guards who had so fiercly blocked him.
He kept his tongue inside of him, not wishing to offend anyone. His reputation wasn't the best around these parts. Corruption at its peak and several viscious rumours escalating around he decided it would be best to save his words for Guo Si. Not before long he was presented infront of the man Guo Si, a man he had gone against during the downfall of Dong Zhuo.. however man he would have to work with. He studied the man quickly before bowing and requesting to sit.
"Order?"
He laughed, playing with the mans insecurites of his "brother" what order was there in a place where a man denies anyone access to the Emperor. If Li Jue kept this up the place would be a sinking ship and without a doubt Guo Si would go down with him. Plus it didn't seem much like order when Cao Cao arrived, he pretended like he was merely ignorant.. he wouldn't allow his cities to fall into such chaos.
"Hmph, i had come to speak to Emperor about the completion of my tasks however i do have buisness with the Great Guo Si as well."
He said, smiling gently bowing his head to the man. He had originally come to the lands of the Son of Heaven to merely warn the Emperor of the completion of his tasks however Li had locked the Emperor up after a small riot has started. Cao Cao remained calm, even under the pressure of "breaking the order".
"Guo Si, you are a wise and smart man, i've always looked up to you politically. A fierce rolemodel inside and outside of battle.. yet i fail to see why you attach yourself with this other man Li Jue."
He said politely, not meaning any harm but intending to strike a nerve perhaps. If the man was to release details, Cao Cao would play on them. Tip the ice burg a little and send the whole city into chaos. If Guo Si was having second thoughts about his "brother" then there was probably high hopes that Li Jue was much the same.
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Post by Emperor Feng on Jun 8, 2010 13:46:58 GMT
The General gestured for him to take the mat opposite him by the window, it looked upon part of the Imperial gardens that were still being constructed to match those of the former Imperial City. Listening intently, Guo knew that Cao Cao was trying to hard to 'butter' him up, the flattery was not like him and it seemed laughable that he would lower to such. If he was such a talent, why did he not seek his service after the death of Dong Zhuo? He was allowed to be sucked into the whirlwind that was Li Jue. "Flattery shall not get you anywhere with me Govenor Cao, I am not like my brother." The words of 'brother' had some hidden tone with it, some resentment for the man was present; after all the years they served as comrade, he saw the changes within him.
Guo's eyes focused upon his guests. "Speak with truth, as you are famed for, what truely brings you to my quarters?" The General was not going to simply give up his desires, as the suspicion lead him to believe Cao would attempt to use it against him..inform Li Jue of the conversation and have one threat of the Govenor's eradicated, leaving just one. He woould simply test the water, if truth was told, then perhaps Guo would be willing to confess in the man sat opposite him. Though the matter of the Emperor was simple, the General Li had placed him under lock since the incident with the Warden and then pushed forward by the small riots; though no one knew of the Warden as of yet...
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Post by Guan Yu on Jun 8, 2010 15:14:19 GMT
Guo Si's pursuit force has drove Zhang Qin's unit to speed up their ride, they fled to the southern hills, where their pursuers gave up the chase. Slowing down and looking back Zhang Qin gave deep exhale of relief, glad that they didn't go all out to track him down. He resumed his journey south to report... Continued here...
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colby
Full Member
I would rather betray the world, than let the world betray me
Posts: 216
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Post by colby on Jun 8, 2010 16:31:00 GMT
Cao Cao sat down on the man like Guo Si instructed, a little more comfortable and welcoming. He didn't take well to the flattery, Cao Cao expected as such. Clearly the man was shy and whimpered away. It would be the end of him if carried on, maybe his life could be spared. Under these new conditions he didn't seem as bad of a guy.
"So you are afraid of Li Jue?"
Cao Cao questioned, it would apppeared how cowered away and allowed Li Jue to do what he want, putting them both in a grave situation. It was clear that Cao Cao didn't like Li Jue, the man had always treated Cao Cao coldly and gone against him and his ordeals with the Emperor.
"You want the truth?"
Cao Cao stroked his chin, picking his words carefully. Wondering how much he valued this Li Jue figure. Before rolling back his head and turning to the side, avoiding eye contact for a moment before turning his head to him and glaring.
"Seek you? How could i will Li Jue blocking me."
It was believable. If Li Jue would be as mad to hide the Emperor away then why wouldn't he block communications with the lords from Guo Si? Especially Cao Cao. Their relations hadn't been the best. Perhaps Li Jue feared his life and Cao Cao and Guo Si uprising against him? Cao Cao stroked his beard. Twisting and stroking it in a wise manner, raising his finger and shaking it.
"If you ask me, Li Jue has bitten off a little more then he can chew and hes giving yourself a bad name.. its only a matter of time before he causes trouble and just because he has the Emperor alone doesn't mean his name will be the only name mentioned... you know this."
Guo Si was not a fool, just poorly executed and stuck with a terrible teammate, Cao Cao had no team mates.. he worked with people indeed but merely for his own purposes.
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Post by Emperor Feng on Jun 8, 2010 21:16:10 GMT
It was true, how could anyone expect to have council with him when Li Jue forbid anyone, they all had to see him; even under Dong Zhuo, Guo would get some recognition of status...it was rare, but atleast he had the appreciation to handle some court. Listening more to the words of the Govenor, the General remained silent, listening to each word to find any tricks within it..however, Cao Cao had no means to be the cunning fool he usually was; as the General Li would not have anything to do with him. With Li around, there would be no possibility that he would be denied rank; even the order for his return and receiving of regalia 'in due course' was false. Sitting back, a serving maid brought the two some tea; wine was not appropriate for this moment, for it could effect the disposition and with Li in the state he was in...that would be a foolish move. "I do not fear him, over the months I have come to resent him; comradship has left his senses. We were supposed to be equal, but General Li has given him higher rank and not even I am allowed to personally receive anyone in the main hall."
Guo spoke out against Li Jue, showing that it was not fear that kept him quite; he still cared for him as a Brother and the honour embedded within him halted his actions for turning against a comrade. "He could not see what Lord Dong was doing, we all simply kowtowed; you knew of his temper, rather to submit than inflame him." Having a sigh escape his lips, it was presented to Cao Cao that this was a beaten man..taken in by the hopes of Li Jue's words and then placed into the dust when the influence of 'power' came into play. Taking a sip, Guo was proving wrong the rumours of the 'vicious' and 'barbaric' personas that they gave him. "This was not how I had things thought out, we were to take the Emperor into our care. We knew His Excellency could not be moved again, it would not be well for the populace. I am not a minister, but I was going to step up to become Regent and commande the Imperial Army to progress the Empire. Now I feel that General Li has taken an axe to all I have achieved."
Straching as his chin, another sigh left his lips; he was in a rut, not being able to turn a blade against brethren yet continualy allow himself to be abused..just as he was serving Dong Zhuo, though atleast he gained rank and was recognised as a worthy General. Being with Li Jue he was simply engulfed and now the land turned their blades against him, how could he speak out when his hands were bound and mouth gaged?! "There is a man, you shall find it easy to search him out as he returned to the Imperial City to attempt to find the rest of his estate, to transport it to Chang'an; when Lord Dong moved, he was not given the chance to do so...forced only to travel with the belongings of the former Prime Minister. You know of him." Taking another sip, Guo focused upon Cao's eyes..making sure that he would listen to his advice, unlike those within the Court. "Imperial-in-law Dong Cheng, he has connections with some influential poeple that reside both in Chang'an and Luoyang. If you gain his trust, then I shall hear your plans Govenor Cao." Leaning back a little, it was clear that Cao Cao had more cut out for him to gain the confidence of the General. However, it would be easier that most, for he had taken Luoyang into his jurisdiction and it would not be hard to find an Imperial-in-law; especially Dong Cheng. Though, the mention of the others, they must be those remaining of the Imperial Court who fled when Dong Zhuo took to power..they fled and placed into hiding, simply awaiting the day to return to office...
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colby
Full Member
I would rather betray the world, than let the world betray me
Posts: 216
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Post by colby on Jun 8, 2010 21:29:03 GMT
Cao Cao bowed his head to the man, feeling a slight shade of sympathy for this man. Perhaps even Cao Cao had judged the book before the cover, maybe Li Jue was the monster or maybe Guo Si merely wanted an easy escape route if things turned out wrong. It didn't matter Cao Cao would comply, working beneath the higher generals would only strengthen his relations and make himself more powerful.
"A gruesome tale, yet you still live to tell the tale."
Cao Cao laughed, the man had seen some dreadful times and even when he considered himself out of the woods Li Jue was right then to push him back into the barrens to play with the wolves again. His struggle would never be over until he acted.. making a decisive move. Guo Si knew this. Cao Cao would act as the resting shoulders for the man over the next few months.. replacing Li Jue to some scale.
"Dong Cheng, consider it done. If you can speak to the Emperor.. warn him of my feats at Luo Yang and my formed alliances with Yuan Shao and Lu Bu."
He said, preparing to make his way if there was nothing else Guo Si wished for him. Guo Si doing things along behind Li Jue's back would cause some hysteria.. but what the man didn't know wouldn't hurt him and Cao Cao would see his actions complete. Knowing Li Jue's condition he expected Guo Si being on of the few men to be able to see the Emperor, if he couldn't Cao Cao wasn't too bothered.. he would take Luo Yang by other means without the Emperors word.. he simply blame Li Jue for allowing him so. With Luo Yang in his palm, this "Dong Cheng" man would be much easier to locate.
"My plans?"
Cao Cao laughed, patting the man on the shoulder as a token of gratitude for hearing him out and promising him he would not fail him. His plans were set in stone, nothing could stop them. He set off immediately to find this Dong Cheng figure.
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