|
Post by Liu Biao on Jun 9, 2010 23:20:20 GMT
The air was think with tension, perhaps it was just the presence of so many powerful men in one city or maybe the presence of the Emperor but everyone seemed to be on edge. There was certainly a feeling that important events were about to happen any moment. This feeling could only increase with the presence of yet another important regional lord. To the south the gates of the city opened for Liu Biao of Jing Zhou who had come to visit his kins man Liu Xian Emperor of China. He held his head high and ignored the stares of the common people as he keeps his eyes firmly fixed on the palace. The people began to mutter he knew Li Jue would hear of his approach long before he reached the imperial palace if he did not know already. He suspected a man like Li Jue had spies in every corner of the city if not the land. Of course he had perfectly good reason for his paranoid there were a lot of people who justifiably wanted to kill him. If Liu Biao was one of those was uncertain he was just here to see his kinsman about matters local to Jing Zhou and himself. His lands were not close to the capital but that did not mean his appearer here could not sway the balance of power.
"The people here look scared, i wonder what kind of lord Li Jue is." Liu Biao said looking around at the people expression his thoughts aloud although under his breath. He would not want that reported to that megalomaniac. He snapped to attention again trying to look as imperial and powerful as possible, this was not a place to show weakness. He soon came to the gates of the Imperial palace. He dismounted and made his way over to the gates. He was unaware of the orders regarding no one seeing the Emperor although he would have demanded it anyway based on there blood relation.
"I am Liu Biao Governor of Jing, I am here to meet with my Kinsman Emperor Xian, conduct me to him at once." Liu Biao commanded the guards looked as imposing and indisputable as he could possible manage under the circumstances.
|
|
|
Post by Emperor Feng on Jun 10, 2010 2:33:46 GMT
The General Li had remained locked within the main hall, anger refused to leave his being..the thought of Liu Bei daring to send a peon to cause chaos in the Capital was infuriating to him. A loud knock upon the doors as the news of an Imperial kinsman at the Palace gates circulated the Palace, all but the Emperor knew of this visitation. "Regent General, Govenor Liu Biao has request to see His Excellency." It halted the thought as it came back to reality with the new, turning to face the door Li Jue searched for reasons why he was here? Perhaps another ploy combined with those two Liu's? If so, a stop had to be put to them. He knew how. Finally opening the doors, the General turned to the officials who were trying to listen into the main hall..unfortunately the mumbles were inaudable. "Go and tell him that no one can see the Emperor, even him. I shall be waiting in here to recieve him."
Shaking their heads, the officials turned to their duty, not wanting to do so but they could not act in any other way. The Palace gates uponed for the Govenor, who was recieved by the officials of high office and 10 Imperial Guards; bowing, they greeted the Royal kinsman. "I'm affraid that an incident has taken place within the Capital and no one is permitted to have council with the Emperor; Regent General Li Jue shall recieve you in the main hall. Please, we shall escort you." They turned to do exactly as ordered, to take Liu Biao into the main hall to speak with Lu Jue. Once in the Palace grounds it was clear something severe had happened, guards patrolled the ground filling each corner; clearly, all of them belonging to Li Jue.
The Regent General was infront of the Dragon Throne, sat upon a raised dais that he reclined on; leaning his shoulder onto the arm rest..waiting. Once Liu Biao was in his presence, a smile would be seen on his lips; awaiting the first words of the Govenor, knowing he would be 'outraged' for himself not to be seen by the Emperor...
|
|
|
Post by Liu Biao on Jun 10, 2010 9:43:49 GMT
For a moment just a moment Liu Biao looked like he wanted to drew his blades. His hand inched toward the hilt and the started the guardsmen who would defy him him in the eyes. He willed the man to back down to do the right thing and let him see his kinsman. However it seemed there fear of Li Jue was just to great, he his his arm fall back away from the hilt of his sword. No matter how much he might want to initiated combat with his rogues now was clearly not the time. He had to calm himself, it was becoming obvious what was going on here. Liu Xian was nothing but a jeweled, golden robed prisoner in his own palace. The thought was close to blasphemy for him, but he had a mission here even if he had to play the devil to get what he wanted that was what he would do. He took a deep breath and his outward attitude today changed he seemed suddenly relaxed and even eager to agree with the guards observed demands. He forced a smile making a gesture toward the doors for them to lead the way.
"Please then escort me Li Jue i will take my business to the Regent General." He said as mild mannered as possible as he allowed himself to be lead deep into the palace toward the throne room. It was just another insult to imperial power than Li Jue would use it as his own personal audience chamber. That the man had no honer or respect for the imperial family was obvious, 'in what way' he thought 'was this was man any better than Dong Zhou?' He might be thinking this but he continued to force a smile as he was lead into toward Li Jue. He could not believe what he was now considering doing it was some satisfaction at least knowing that one day he intended to revenge this insult. He went as far as he make a short bow before approaching the throne to speak with the stuck up rebel leader.
"Regent general i am glad to meet you at last." Liu Biao said smiling and continuing to look agreeable. He was sure it was the last thing he expected. By all rights he should be jumping around the throne room hurling insults at the traitor if not drawing his blades, he was certainly tempted too. He was not going to make that mistake however, he wanted something and it was within Li Jue power to give him.
"I hope you will forgive my lack of knowledge, Jing Zhou is distant from the capital i had not heard the news about the Emperor. It was wise of you safe guard him in such a manner for his own protection." Liu Biao finished deciding that just for the moment that was about as much filth as his tong would permit him to utter still it should be enough he hoped to make his position totaly clear to Li Jue. He stepped back and waited to see how he would take this.
|
|
|
Post by Emperor Feng on Jun 10, 2010 18:54:18 GMT
The Regent General knew all too well of Liu Biao, his attitude was pompous and delluded that because his family name was 'Liu' that it would bring him anything. All the words that blurted from his lips was mere entertainment and Li Jue showed no desire to hide things, through his large grin the made returned a feeble nod; testing the manner of the Govenor. It was an amusement to Li, knowing that this man could not act upon anger for he knew that in an instant his life would be changed; from loyalist to traitor in a gesture of the Regent General's hand. "Indeed, however, the matter is not yet settled. One Warden, who spouts loyalty to His Excellency, but then goes to attack him in cold blood." The eyes focused upon Liu Biao with the next statement. "We believed such could be the worst, until one of your own kinsmen added insult to an already open wound upon the Emperor's heart; by attempting to place riots in the Capital. All know your heart is with our Majesty, thus I confess the name of this treacherous being; indeed a member of the Royal clan."
Li Jue was delibaretly halting, trying to add some form of suspence while at the same time make Liu Biao think over those in the Imperial clan who would attempt such tricks. "Of course all was placed under judgement of the Court. Yourself, you have no reasons to act, too loyal and also have rich lands. The Govenor Liu Yan, he is not a fool and takes the Empire into his embrace. On pursuit of the rebel sent by the traitor, we saw his direction head Southernly; to the city where Govenor Liu Bei holds power." Shifting his frame in the dais, the General presented no care for the relationship Biao and Bei had..as he proclaimed Liu Bei to be a traitor to the Empire. "You see, many parchments have been sent across the land for this Govenor Liu's presence within the Court to explain why a vassal of his attempted to place the Capital, home of the Emperor, into chaos."
A sigh left his lips, as the eyes trailed back to the Governor, something sly was within them; a fox waiting to bite at some point..but not telling when. Liu Bei was within his prey and it would be quick when all regalia of his would be removed, placing him as commoner status; or worse, to be taken by the Court that was now powered by Regent General Li. Though there was no word of his comrade Guo Si, one who Li had personally pushed to one side; a future friction?. "Anyway, what brings you personally to the Capital when days ago you sent one of your vassals to the Court?"
|
|
|
Post by Liu Biao on Jun 10, 2010 19:13:19 GMT
Liu Biao felt like cursing it was very inconvenient of Liu Bei to be stirring up trouble up like this, at least before his visit anyway. Although he could perfectly understand his reasons his method he felt left much to be desired his failed attempted could not only cause his vassals harm but also the Emperor. All knew of Li Jue's temper and unpredictable nature. They needed to move careful around such a man and not move until they were certain of his death. Instead he had made things much more difficult for any plans they might have put it place in future.
"I cannot say this surprise me Regent general. Liu Bei has always been the black sheep of the family. You know he was born as just a mear peasant. He has acquired his current rank my manipulation and deceit. He is no doubt at this moment plotting against you." Liu Biao said hoping that his kins mans actions would not reflect badly on himself that was just what he did not need at the moment. Although he released there was some truth in his words it was just nonsense to appease Li Jue. Such men liked being told what they wanted to hear. Besides he was not ready to make his own move not by a long shot.
"I sent a man here to gain an edict to place Chang Sha under my rule, which you were kind enough to grant me. For which you have my eternal gratitude however there is one more thing i matter i was going to discuss with the Emperor." He said looking li Jue in the eyes they both knew he controlled the Emperor so his request would have had to have been granted by him anyway. He had prepared a few things to say to convince the man if he had to but he hoped he would just give it to him to stiff trouble in the south which would take attention away from Chang An certainly for lords close to him like Liu Bei.
"I wanted to ask him to name me Imperial protector of Jing Zhou, i control all the most major cites and i believe it is a rank you ah he will feel able to trust me with." Liu Biao said waiting to see how Li Jue would take this. An ambition man he hoped the regent general would look on it as an opportunity. His position was unstable he needed support now more than ever.
|
|
|
Post by Emperor Feng on Jun 10, 2010 21:56:15 GMT
An eyebrow raised to the request, so he would not appear for the attack on Changsha but would present himself for ordering of rank? Such a man was useless to Li Jue, however, there was something that could be done by the Govenor. For Li Jue, this being had to earn the rank of 'Imperial Protector of Jingzhou'. Shifting in the seat, the Regent General gave off a little chuckle before coming to the point. "Imperial Protector of Jingzhou? Such a rank has the requirements of taking the entirity of Jing into ones jurisdiction, not simply the cities of worth; for who would ou be protecting? Those who are rich? This Empire is for all, not the exclusion of those in poverty Govenor Liu." Another chuckle and smirk..testing Liu Biao once again, as all knew of the high taxations pressed upon the poor by Li Jue, but would he have the foolishness to mention them? Or bite his tongue on the matter? A serving maid entered and placed a pot beside the General, slowly pouring the tea into a cup for their Master; none offered to Liu Biao..
Taking a sip of the hot liquid, Li turned back to the matter at hand; with a coy smirk. "Furthermore, you come before the Court for rank, but send a vassal for other business? Such is not the manner one should act now should it, especially of an Imperial clansmen?" This was all done in the amusement of the Regent General and he made no effort to hide this fact. "You see, I am willing to over look this matter, on one occasion. I do not wish for your kinsman's head, howeever, what I wish for is vassal." Another shift in frame and sip of tea. "This man went under the alias of Tai Ming and his weapon was unusual, so it would be easy to find; a pouch of stones he used to hurl at his targets. Bring this man to me and then you shall have the office you desire." It was clear of what this man's fate would be, not only executed but tortured before hand and not given the respectable burial. However, there was no way around it for the Govenor; if he wished to become Imperial Protector of JIngzhou then the vassal of Liu Bei had to be dealt with.. Another smirk as the tea was consumed, the Regen General chuckling under his breath...
|
|
|
Post by Liu Biao on Jun 10, 2010 23:22:01 GMT
Liu Biao sighed looking away as he gathered his thoughts. He really would have liked to shove a burning hot poker into this man from several angles at the same time. He liked to think of himself as a humble man but it was hard to sit here and have this traitor talk to him like he was his dog. He needed to remember that he was a powerful lord in his own right or Li Jue arrogance would get his killed sooner or later. He certainly wanted the position still but he did not think he would have to crawl and beg for it it was not such an important position. He was fully aware that Cao Cao had already been given a similar title. Perhaps he had just been favored by someone else he noticed that Gou Si was conspicuously absent when he was meant to an equal to Li Jue.
"Now is not to the time to standing on ceremony Li Jue as I'm sure you can well understand. It's not like the land is peaceful or the highway are not clogged with bandits and traitors to yourself." Liu Biao said pacing across the carpet although he keep his eyes on Li Jue. He was not willing to offend Liu Bei so early for a small promotion in rank although it might not be wise to point that out to Li Jue. So he had better play his other card.
"Im sure you see it as clearly as i do Li Jue our enemy's are massing Liu Bei is only the first of many. I will stand with you and imperial court i assure you but others will flock to the banners of the traitors who claim to wish to liberate the emperor." The words were foul to his mouth but it seemed best to play on the mans obvious paranoia. Even if he could not get what he wanted maybe he could at least stir a little more trouble.
"Some of your enemy's might be closer than you think, old friends can turn on you in the blink of an eye." he gave the Regent General a conspiratorial wink. It was obvious that there was tension between him and Gou Si perhaps enough for him to use to get what he wanted.
"It would be easier for me to perhaps help you in future and fight these enemy in my own lands if i were named a Imperial protector. Of course were i to find this vassal i would deliver him to you but a why not give me a show of faith and give me this rank now, you will need all the friends you can get Regent general." Liu Biao said in his most conspiratorial tone that he could manage. He looked around as if fearing that one of the guards might report this to Gou Si. It was pretty obvious he was asking for a bribe here, even if he was not offer any direct support yet he was at least seeming to offer not to become one of those enemies.
|
|
|
Post by Emperor Feng on Jun 10, 2010 23:53:28 GMT
The Regent General took another sip of tea as the Govenor was attempting to gain the rank without doing as he wished, something that he would be as the mountain; not shifting. With a smirk, the man contined to coerse him in place the regalia into hand..all in vain. However, something struck him, the mention of close friends turning on another; was this a remarck towards Guo? No, for they were comrades and close to brothers, indeed he had not seen him of late..though all was explanable as he was not given any tasks, Li Jue had devoured all audiences and taken the reigns for himself; to the General, Guo would not turn his blade against him. "Do not try to turn friends against on another Govenor Liu, for it shall not get you anywhere. Neither, shall I add, of this somewhat bribe you are attempting. What if I report such action the Court? Your name would be sallied and thrown into the mud.."
Another chuckle thrust from his mouth as he gestured towards the doors of the hall. "You have been given an order from the Court, to bring forth the treacherous vassal of Govenor Liu Bei. Only then, you shall recieve the regalia of Imperial Protector of Jingzhou. This word is final, speak more and you shall feel the judgement of the Imperial Court, do you understand?" The latter words were pressed upon, as Li Jue leaned forward to make it clear of his position. He wanted the man who felled some of his officers and if Liu Biao did not do it, then he would be made another enemy of State..just as Gongsun Zan and Liu Bei had suffered. "Leave now Govenor Liu, return to the Capital when you have the fool in your possession; then..and only then, shall office be handed to you." Another wave of his hand appeared, not to the door but to Liu Biao himself..he was dismissed...
However, all may not have been lost, though absent the General Guo was not deaf in the Palace; the conversation had been overheard and passed on to him. After the secret meeting with Cao Cao, he had taken precautions of having every audience overheard..it angered the General to think that his own 'brother' and comrade had not placed him in any trust; was he not equal to him?! Something had to be done and Li Jue's dismissal of the Govenor allowed it to be so..
"Leave no Govenor Liu, our business has been adjorned." Rising from the dais he gestured for Liu Biao to leave his presence once again..chuckling as he did so. Not only to add to the insult, but Li Jue left the hall from a side door. A moment for another to take lead, a feeble official approached the Govenor once he knew that Li Jue was out of ear shot. "Esteemed Govenor Liu, do not be quick to return to Jingzhou. I have been sent on behalf of the General Guo, please, follow me; set your men outside the city walls..bring only 2 guards." It was clear this order was from Guo Si himself, one as not to raise the suspicions of Li Jue; indeed the Govenor thought correctly.. The Regent General had created a tension between the two former friends, Guo suffering the most from it... If Liu Biao did as ordered, the official would swiftly escort him outside of the hall and through the Palace courtyards to a sealed gate that only a few guards were patrlling; the entrance to the private quarters of Guo Si. Already it seemed to be a different place, as all guards bowed low to Liu Biao and treated him with respect.
Within the private quarters sat the General Guo, who had serving maids set a placing of tea opposite him; as he took seat next to the window he had come so accustomed with. Situated next to him was a box, with a dragon seal and fine silk covering; one experienced with Court dealings, such as Liu Biao, would recognise the box to be the shield for regalia decorations.. Guo Si was going to take the steps against his so called comrade...
|
|
|
Post by Liu Biao on Jun 11, 2010 0:17:16 GMT
Liu Biao flushed red with anger as he struggled against he desire to retaliate against Li Jue words. He should just strike this man down now, but if he did he suspected he would not get out of here alive. He had played his last card but Li Jue was plainly too arrogant and full of himself to listen. Even the Emperor he suspect would not have spoken to him in quite that manner. He did not think of himself as an arrogant man but he still had his pride. It as clear that the man could not be bargained with he could only be obeyed or killed. He some how forced himself to bow as Li Jue left probably to go play with the Emperors courtesans of some other unthinkable crime.
"Just remember your not the Emperor yet Li Jue." Liu Biao muttered under his breath when he was sure Li Jue was too far away to hear him. He turned and noticed one of the minor court officials heading his way no doubt to assist him with finding the big door out of the palace he thought bitterly. What the man in fact told him he found much more interesting, perhaps the good general would have a more interesting proposition for him. Certainly it could not hurt to hear the man out before he returned home empty handed.
Outside of the palace he gestured for two of his men to follow close behind him the rest could wait for his return. He suspected they would do him no good anyway if Guo Si really wanted to harm him. He kept silent as the man took him Guo Si's private quarters a far more intelligent meeting place than open court in these times. He considered this maybe Guo Si was the better man to back as long as he could him what he wanted. He noticed box and other signs of imperial regalia with interest.
"General Guo Si what a pleasant surprise. I take it you are aware of my audience with the Regent general. I am afraid i must report i found him most unresponsive and i fear he does not have the best interest of Jing Zhou at heart." Liu Biao said looking at the General carefully, he suspected he could guess what was going on here and he had said enough for now until he got some confirmation of those suspicions. Could it be that general Guo Si indeed had a little ambition only man could sit on the high chair.
|
|
|
Post by Emperor Feng on Jun 11, 2010 0:35:39 GMT
As the Govenor came into his private chambers, the General rose from where he sat and bowed to him as was required for an Imperial kinsmen..Guo had many nights alone to think of his future, the more Li Jue had pushed him away the more time he head to reveal many things of truth. Taking place once again, the hand was gestured for Liu Biao to take the seat opposite him; tea was poured for both men. "I must apologies on behalf of the Emperor for the conduct you were given. Do not treat me within the same durt as Li Jue, though we come from the same loyalties; one has been so far pushed that the many things have come apparent." There was a defeated tone to Guo's voice, once a great General and now the beaten man by someone he trusted..believed to be as brethren. They planned to co-rule this Empire, but that shifted when the Regent General took a taste of power in its corrupted state. Turning into one who emulates Dong Zhuo, while Guo Si was forming into one who now saw the faults of his former Master.
"I have been locked within here for many days, not allowed part in any tasks of importance; they are all given to Li Jue..by himself. The Emperor has not left his quarters either, no one can see him..not even me." In this state, many would feel sympathetic towards Guo..he was trying to repent against the wrongs he had commited in this realm. "Do not take this as a bribe Govenor Liu, my substance could not allow for it. I act in the manner of our how Majesty would wish." In hand he took the silk box and set it on the table, untying the dragon seal the lid was lifted and revealed the jade regalia of Imperial Protector. "I know of your ordeal, with the Empires heart..you deserve this."
Though Li Jue had gained all power over the Imperial Court, Guo Si held tight to the influence he had left and managed to gain this through means of an official who was placed as attendant to the Emperor. "I call for aid from all corners of this land, to set my so called brother into the Nether Realm and break the cage that His Excellency has been forced into." An elongated sigh left his lips as he took a sip from the tea, the tone of his voice had no clear view..where to turn to, or most importantly, who to turn to. Li Jue's men were rife in the Capital and suspicion would grow upon him if he dared venture out of the city; he needed external aid..
|
|
|
Post by Liu Biao on Jun 11, 2010 1:09:48 GMT
Liu Biao was pleased to be treated with my respect now, it highlighted immediately the differences between these two men. Of course it could be an act it paid to be polite if you wanted something, a secret clearly no one had imparted on Li Jue. He took a seat opposite him wondering if he was finally about to get anywhere.
"If i am certain of one thing General it is that the Emperor had nothing to do with my last audience i doubt he is even aware of my presence here." Liu Biao said taking the offered tea, it was bitter but then so was his resentment toward the Regent general. That alone was motive for him but perhaps the good General had more. He was still not sure about him.
However his doubts vanished when he saw the regalia of the officer he desired and more had by rights earned. It was a big move of good faith of Guo Si's part that he would offer it when he could not be certain that Liu Biao had any intention of supporting him. He was sure of one thing now at least here was a man he could work with. Whether of not he was truly loyal to the Emperor he would find out in due course. Certainly it was clear he would be better than Li Jue who was plainly a mad man.
"I must offer you my apologies General, prior my visit i thought you a man of the same mold as Li Jue. Now i can see i was clearly mistaken you are indeed a true man of Han Empire. I am sure that if you can succeed in free him from his current Regent general you will greatly rewarded." Liu Biao said placing one hand on the imperial regalia and picking it up. It was exquisitely carved as he had expected.
"You have a noble goal in mine one which i too share. My reach is long even from distant Jing Zhou i will act if i can to preserve the son of Heaven. Not only as a clans man but a subject he will always have my eternal loyalty as so will those who protect him." Liu Biao said making sure not to agree to anything out right but also promising to do what he could if he was able. He doubted he was the only lord Guo Si would contact about this he would have to see how things stacked up. Certainly if there a good chance to save the Emperor he must act.
|
|
|
Post by Emperor Feng on Jun 11, 2010 3:38:18 GMT
The General Guo watched the Govenor take hold of the regalia and gaze at the crafting of the decoration, indeed it was a fine piece and would take pride of place upon any belt. Taking a sip of the tea, he nodded to the simple fact that the Emperor was none the wiser, he had no idea of what went on in his own Palace. No one was allowed to report to him, they had to speak straight to Li Jue; all, even Guo, to get anything done. "Your assumptions are current, His Excellency doesn't know many things that happen in the castle; or the Courts anymore. All have to answer to the Regent General." Allowing a sigh to escape his lips again, the General turned his head to look out onto the Imperial gardens that he enjoyed so much. In the Spring time they were something to behold, nothing like anything he had seen in his life.
"I have the same amount of men who follow me than Li, but, as Regent General he has command of the Imperial Army; I cannot go against that and gain victort.. Also, how could I go against them, they are men of the Emperor; it would be wrong to cut one of them down." Turning back to face the Govenor.. "You see, I could call for a coalition against him..but, there is no proof it would work out for the best. Look at the one placed against my former Lord Dong, that crumbled apart; too many desired power. I fear there is no way out, the Regent General does not allow an opening for assassination either; yet, it would be a dis-honourable move..even for someone as he." The General was not sure why he was confessing this all to a man like Liu Biao, his jurisdiction was so far away from the Capital; Guo would be dead before aid from him reached Chang'an in time. However, he had connections, especially to one being who could aid the most. At the moment, Liu Bei had riled the Regent General in a way he had never seen before. "Perhaps, when you return to Xiangyang you could call upon your kinsmen Govenor Liu Bei. I have never seen Li so angry at one being before, as much as he is with that man. Have him find the Warden Wei Feng, someone who escaped the city before that vassal of his did. I'm sure you have heard of this Warden, Jue proclaimed he made a move against the Emperor...when in fact, he hadn't, he charged for Li Jue."
Taking a sip to wet his palate, the General continued. "You see, his men had been found by the Warden ransacking a home because they could not afford the high taxes he placed. That Warden was brave, a roomful of guards and he charged towards the Regent General, fortunately the Emperor was at hand and had his Imperial Mentor to help the man's escape..though the Mentor fell in doing so." Guo had told Liu Biao the day the Emperor was locked within the Palace, not allowed to exit his quarters or for anyone to have an audience with him; only Li Jue himself could see the Emperor..which he rarely did, each night he swore to Guo that he'd check his health, this he doubted came to anything. "Have Liu Bei seek Wei Feng out, actually..no. Liu Bei can help later." The General's eyes focused upon the newly instated Imperial Protector of Jingzhou, eyes had a sense of begging. "Find this Warden, he shall always be willing to aid a member of the Imperial clan. Bring or send him to me, have him disguised as a member of my wife's family; that way Li Jue will not bother with the matter. I think I can somehow get the Warden and His Excellency to meet, with Wei Feng's help.. I could gain strength over the Regent General. Will you do this for me?"
|
|
|
Post by Liu Biao on Jun 11, 2010 10:52:42 GMT
Liu Biao found Guo Si to be quite curious he was he said devoted to the emperor but he was not yet willing to risk an uprising with equal control of the armed forces. He supposed he could understand after all there was more support out there for him, there were closer local lords like Cao Cao or Ma Teng that could render direct military aid. However he thought that under the circumstances he might have been willing to take the risk if it meant ending Li Jue's reign of terror over the capital. He was clearly a small and petty man he had man that clear during his audience with Liu Biao he had no right really to give him orders only the Emperor did.
"This warden sounds like a very brave and loyal man to take such a risk. I would like to think i would have done the same under the circumstances but...unfortunately i was not there." He said as he finished his tea placing the cup back down on the table. It was true that it would be difficult for him to send military aid but he could see Guo Si did not even want that yet. His influence however was great and he had his own spies as well he would bend much of his covert resources to finding this minister so he could persuade him to come and see Guo Si. If he was really a loyal man this hero that Guo Si described he would certainly come and help plan to free the Emperor.
"I will find and contact this man and have him come to you in the manner that you have asked." Liu Biao said decided that that was probably was a dismissal anyway but he really should be going not only to find this man but to oversee thing in his own lands. He had already been talking with his kinsman Liu Bei perhaps together they could achieve what one alone could not. He made a small bow out of respect for the mans wish to help and reform not his rank then turned to leave.
"Just remember general i will be keeping a close eye on matters in the capital. I will not do anything so rash as Liu Bei without speaking to you first however." He said turning his head before walking out. It was time to collect his men and start heading for home. He would send out people to try and locate this Wei Fang and arrange a meeting with him.
|
|
|
Post by Chen Gong on Jun 26, 2010 3:44:06 GMT
Chen Gong walked swiftly towards the Imperial Palace. He was wearing his finest silks of Black trimmed with Red. He looked better than even some of the court nobles. These were the most expensive clothes he had; He was trying to make a point. A long luxurious cloak was draped across him, only his feet could be seen when he stood still.
Flanking him on both sides were Hou Cheng and Song Xian, both wearing polished heavy armors. They had tagged along with their Commander during his trip to Chang'An.
Gongtai stepped up to the doors of the Imperial Palace with a steely gaze and no emotion. He would meet this new Emperor and see what he was worth. He turned to a nearby guard and spoke to him in a disturbing, but polite tone.
"I am Chen Gong, Advisor to Lu Bu and Prefect of Bei Hai, I request an audience with the Son of Heaven."
|
|
|
Post by Emperor Feng on Jul 8, 2010 10:31:27 GMT
[Sorry for the extremely long wait]
As the land began to topple into chaos, another proclaimed kinship of the realm and rose to the Heavens on his own accord; claiming to have the parchment of Zhang Jiao within his grasp. Yet, all became somewhat calm in the Imperial City as reconstruction of the city had taken place upon the news of the Emperor Xian's death.. The enitre city went into mourning for the 3 months and some spoke of the beloved wife of Xian refusing to take down the dress of grievance in honour of her husband. As Empress Dowager, no one would question her and some courtiers admired the loyalty; a faithful wife until the last breath. Rising above was the eldest son of the Imperial Clan, Liu Feng, one who was believed correct to place the medicine upon the upon wound that was this realm. A good judge of character he had become known and placed only those of true worth in his council; indeed, his brothers had taken high office..yet, all of which had several tests in order to prove their talents and where rewarded. Respect for the new Son of Heaven grew in the city, unlike his predecessor, none of the city sang derogatives of his naive and weak feebleness...
The guards had been changed for patrol on the 3rd watch and a unit of Captains were informed of an unusual visitor to the Palace grounds; a being requesting audience to the Emperor..and his title, only a mere advisor. However, this being was the first to seek council with the new Emperor and from the shadows Feng himself ordered that this guest be given what he wished. For the first time in these recent times, someone was given entrance to the Emperor.
As the Captains became escorts, all bowed to Chen as he became treated as honoured guest; another order of the Emperor. "Master Chen, we have good news that His Excellency personally requested your authorisation to council; please, follow me." As the Palace gates opened, out came a surge of high officials that would relieve the Captains of escorting Chen to the Imperial chamber. Within the courtyards were a life of activity as gardeners were re-designing the gardens to bring the change of house and do away with the atrocities of the past. Internally, one would hear words of strange sources; one being that unlike any other, Emperor Feng had only taken into his council 3 Eunuchs. Each Eunuch had the highest Imperial bureaucratic examination to test their abilities, with physicians making sure that their claim as Eunuch was not false. It seemed already Feng was trying to rectify the mistakes of old.
Lead into the Grand audience chamber were silks of vibrant colours, paintings of the heroes that were once thriving the realm and tapestries of enchanting animals. A raised dais with the infamous Dragon Throne upon it, within a sea of gold and embroidery. However, behind was a large curtain that figures could be seen yet not made out completely; of a golden hue. Behin this curtain was a seat higher than the Dragon Throne, but it was quite plain in comparison. The council flourished as Chen was given a cushioned map reserved for those of high office, or those who were part of the Imperial clan. Advisors to the Son of Heaven entered first and their voice shrilled into the chamber. "Announcing His Excellency, Emperor Feng.."
Soon enough the officials took to their knees and allowed Emperor Feng to appear from behind a curtin to the left of the throne. His visage was stern, yet the eyes bestowed upon him by his mother had a softness; indeed a misleading trait if one did not know him. Dressed in the Imperial hanfu, decorated with the correct jade ornaments of office, Feng took to the raised dais and bowed his head to his guest. However, before any coul speak another figure was rushed into the Imperial chamber and instantly sat on the seat behind the golden curtain; Empress Dowager Fushou. Indeed the stories were true, her attire being of mourning...still placing herself into the Palace temples and ancestory shrines to bid her husband a safe journey into the Nether Realm..
"Majesty, a Chen Gong, advisor to Prefect Lu Bu..." Feng raised his arm, gesturing for the official to silence; he knew too well of this being before him and of course, Lu Bu..however, who of this realm did not know the warrior within Beihai? A faint smirk appeared as he took a breath, the rattling of the five-star Imperial hat filling the gap of silence. "Indeed your jurisdiction under Lu Bu is well known to the Court, for I am sure all of our realm has tales of him. However, what reports bring you, Advisor Chen, to the Imperial city itself? Such a travel you must have come, I only hope our paths were safe to you." Feng's voice was unlike that of his predecessor, as though it had soft tones of a eloquence, however, it gained the force of a being who demanded respect and placed authority to good use..strong willed, yet able to speak as if with a group of friends...
|
|