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Palace
Jun 8, 2010 22:34:06 GMT
Post by Zhu Jun on Jun 8, 2010 22:34:06 GMT
It seemed that there would be variety within his ranks and with it Wei brought more infantry troops than cavaliers, such was good news for the Govenor; when Tianshui was within their jurisdiction then he would make sure that the warrior trained men in infantry rather than cavalry.. "Indeed you have got quite a force under you Master Wei, one that will be a major strength within this Kingdom. As you may know, Wuwei excells in cavalry, but its weakness lies in true combat of the non-mounted fighters. With you, we shall be able to handle this vulnerability." From the side door entered the serving maid again, followed by a nimble young man, his physique was not of a warrior known for brute strength; yet, his agility in battle made up for it. It was clear his features were of the Qiang, the complexion was darker than Teng's; furthermore, the skin was soft and eyes gentle..unlike any of the Govenor's sons, inherited to him by his mother.
"Ah, Tie. This is Master Wei Yan, our newest General into the forces. With him you shall travel to Tianshui and have it placed within our territory, you shall be his second-in-command; remember, he shall be your superior." The young man approached the raised dais that Wei sat upon and bowed to him he would his father, observing the honoured situation he was in; knowing not even his sons gained a raised dais to be seated. Smiling, it did not phase him that he would not be made Commander of this mission, drilled into him so many years ago of working for the position; rather than simply being handed it. "It is an honour to meet you General Wei, I look forward to accompanying you. It shall be a chance to fully prove my potential on the battlefield, without my father's influence."
Tie sat upon a mat, not bothered by being the lowest even when he was the son of the Govenor; the children of Teng well disciplined and did not question their father's orders. It was true, the young man was excited to be chosen by his father..instead of Xiu or Chao, it would be him to take battle and gain land for his father. Not only that, but to take second-in-command? It was a privlege he had never been given, usually a minor sub-bordinate to the being who counted himself third. "Wei Yan? I recognise that name, to think someone as feared as you joined my father? The Heavens truely shine on us today." Teng allowed a small chuckle as tea was brought to all three, the Govenor did not wish for Tie to come accustomed to the wine; having a fear that he would take to it too much. "Tie, when you have delt with Tianshui, you shall join me in Anding; Master Wei shall take care of Tianshui." One would believe anger would surge to find out that the son would not be given the city and instead it given to a new recruit; however, with Tie, it excited him more to find out that he would be aiding someone so trusted of his father..believing in the reasonings, even when unspoken, of his father. Not only this, but to be part of another mission? Truely this day would to prove his worth out of his siblings...
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Wei Yan
New Member
Fears Are Chains. Don't Be Held Back By Them, Make Them Into Weapons
Posts: 35
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Palace
Jun 8, 2010 23:57:58 GMT
Post by Wei Yan on Jun 8, 2010 23:57:58 GMT
A simple nod, that was all the discretion the warrior gave to the boy. It was respectful, but until they were all done speaking he would be still with this thoughts. He doesn't sit on a dias? A mat? This is... New, thought Wei Yan even as he relaxed a bit and let his elbows rest on his knees.
"It is quite an honor to meet you as well, Ma Tie. Your father tells me you wish to see battle first hand, and that I am to help you with that." The warrior started, a coy smile sneaking onto his face, "If that is true we are both in for quite a day. You can learn from me how to lead by example, and I can see if the my lord's flesh and blood is more Qiang or Coward." The last words were said with a smirk, obviously a joke to try and lighten the mood.
The serious returned though as he set back a bit and looked Ma Tie over. He wasn't overly powerful looking, but his toned muscle showed he could most likely be agile and lithe with blade. It was the warrior in him. He scanned every strength and weakness the boy had. He couldn't match up in pure strength, but could out run Yan most likely. He didn't have the experience, but he had the potential. Like any man though, he could bleed. It took a moment for the warrior to realized he had just sized up his lord's son and developed a plan to not only attack him, but to kill him in a matter of seconds. It's just a habit, nothing more, so let it die; he reminded himself over and over again as shook the thought from his mind.
"So I still retain some of my renown? Ha! Then not all is lost. Yes, I think we'll enjoy each other's company very much." chuckled the warrior as he motioned for a serving girl to bring him tea.
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Palace
Jun 9, 2010 1:34:28 GMT
Post by Chen Zen on Jun 9, 2010 1:34:28 GMT
The city walls of the city of Wu Wei were an interesting sight. Even the surrounding enviornment was strange to Zen. Having lived most his life in the southlands he wasn't very used to this type of layout. He had been up to the north west part of the middle kingdom once before but that was a short lived visit. Upon his pure white haired horse the young warrior Chen Zen trotted slowly into the city.
His eyes scanned back and forth at his surroundings. He didn't remember much of the city itself so everything he saw seemed new to him. Slowly his mouth opened wide and he leaned back his head as he released a large yawn. Zen had very little sleep since he left the southlands to travel to this far off location. The travel might be alot but the thought of joining the great Ma Teng made up for it. Being so far away from his home might be painful at first but the thought of what he could gain out here was definatly a plus to his former life.
After a long trot Zen arrived at the entrance to the palace of Ma Teng. He slowly pulled at the reigns of his horse and looked straight forward at the guards as he began to dismount. He scanned them over. Looking over the type of armor they wore and the types of weapons they held. Just a precaution Zen began to turn into a habit. He stood beside his steed as he began to speak.
"I have come to meet with the lord of Wu Wei. If you please, allow me entrance into these halls so that I can speak with a great man."
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Palace
Jun 9, 2010 2:24:23 GMT
Post by Zhu Jun on Jun 9, 2010 2:24:23 GMT
The young Tie chuckled to the remark made by Wei, though quite different from his father he had inherited his sense of homour. The Govenor was glad they had placed either other in a good beginning, though he was unsure of the observing the warrior gave to his son; he had seen it somewhere before..in other warriors, when gazing upon their enemies. Hopefully it was something Wei used to get a sense of how Tie was, because he did not wish to place the blade on the warrior. "That is correct. I'm sure that those of Tianshui would be quite surprised, with a powerhouse as youself and my training in agility.." The young man was interrupted by an official, who silently entered through the same door Tie did moment agos, to inform the Govenor of a visitor..
The guards at the gate watched as the man strangely looked them over, clearly one who was not from the far Northern regions; though it made them chuckle a little. As the gates opened to allow Chen entrance, he was met by an escort of guards and an official. "Please follow us, we shall announce you to Govenor Ma; do not worry, your horse shall be placed within the stables." It was true that Chen had no reason to worry about his steed, for those in Wuwei were famed for their cavaliers and fine horse breeds; they knew how to take care of their mounts. Walking with haste into the main Palace complex the official brought Chen before the doors to the main hall. "We have a visitor for you Govenor Ma, he wishes to speak with you."
"Ah, a visitor? Master Wei, would you observe this man with me?" Tie moved in a position next to his father, close to the steps of the raised dais in order to fully recieve the guest. Allowed entrace Chen was escorted before Ma Teng, Ma Tie and the warrior Wei Yan. "Greetings stranger, this is my youngest son Ma Tie and my General Wei Yan. Please, state your name and business within Wuwei?" The Govenor's tone was friendly and quite calm, his hand gestured two the two men as he introduced them..already Wei was part of his council and only hoped that this young being before them would be wanting to do the same..
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Palace
Jun 9, 2010 4:41:12 GMT
Post by Chen Zen on Jun 9, 2010 4:41:12 GMT
After leaving his steed to the men Zen followed the guards into the halls of ma teng. His gaze slid back and forth to his surroundings as he walked at a steady pace. He lifted his hand up and brushed away a long strand of his hair that blew before his face. As he entered the main chamber and saw a group of strong looking men he knew he was in the right place.
"Greetings my lord. My name is Chen Zen and I have traveled a great distance to meet you. I have heard great things about you even from down in the southlands. I have come to request admittance into your halls as one of your own men."
After speaking Zen lowered his body down onto one knee and lowered his head as he gazed at the floor. He tried to be a curtious as he could to try and make a good impression to this lord of the north.
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Wei Yan
New Member
Fears Are Chains. Don't Be Held Back By Them, Make Them Into Weapons
Posts: 35
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Palace
Jun 9, 2010 6:12:10 GMT
Post by Wei Yan on Jun 9, 2010 6:12:10 GMT
Another boy? Will Ma Teng and I be forced to teach the whole world how to fight before we can advance our kingdom? Another man to either become sheep or wolf? Other lords get seasoned warriors, and we get boys who look like they've seen more days chopping wood than splitting shields. Then again, beggars can't truly be choosers and if he's that eager than maybe he'll come into his own. We'll have to see how he handles troops more than anything.
As the warrior thought, he sat up straight and yet again straighted his shoulders and took all smiles and laughs from his face. He was a warrior. A man wrapped up in honor and glory. A seasoned verteran of the Imperial army. Gone rogue, he mentally reminded himself as he looked over the new comer thoroughly. He wasn't going to speak before his lord, but there was nothing to say this new comer wasn't a paid off mercenary to secretly attack his new lord. The way the new comer looked, a good solid punch would send him reeling, now punching him could be the issue though. He was obviously agile. but it seemed he had slacked on constitution. The warrior had sized up the man as fast as he had spoke. It was instinct, habit, an all around way of life.
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Palace
Jun 9, 2010 22:58:57 GMT
Post by Zhu Jun on Jun 9, 2010 22:58:57 GMT
As the young man spoke, the Govenor glanced over to his new General and could not help but smirk..he knew what the veteran was thinking and he too had similar thought, that this young man would need guidance; yet, as all younger generations did. Stroking his goatee, the glance turned to his son who remained silence; both had a discipline that amused Teng..not wishing to speak before their Lord. "Master Chen, I wish to enquire, do you have any advances upon the battlefield? For instance, myself am a veteran of Cavalry my General here..." Gesturing towards Wei Yan. "Is a fierce man of infantry units." Tie was not mentioned, though the young man did not feel insulted by this..after all, why repeat another cavalier when the example had already been set?
Focusing upon the young lad, the Govenor wished to know where this being would be placed within war; most likely as a sub-bordinate to Wei..another youth under his wing after Tianshui. Perhaps an effective supply unit? Indeed, this Chen would have many uses within his army; yet, in the back of Teng's mind, he hoped that the training he recieved was more for non-mounted troops..thus creating a more balance within his forces...
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Palace
Jun 9, 2010 23:27:48 GMT
Post by Chen Zen on Jun 9, 2010 23:27:48 GMT
After he had finished speaking Zen's body lifted back up to a standing position. As he moved his eyes drifted over towards the strong looking man standing beside Ma Teng. The man seemed quite intimidating but that didn't frighten Zen to the least bit. He was used to fighting larger men than he, even including his younger brother.
His eyes drifted back to the lord of Wu Wei that stood before him. It was not a suprise that a question of his experience would be pushed forward. "Lord Ma Teng, to answer that question I would have to tell you a story. For starters my father was a general under the han dynasty and he had tought me much of fighting and leading troops. However if it is experience you search for I have some. For about four years I traveled with a large group of well trained bandits. We had fought many groups including troops controled by some officials in the areas. In working with a very large well trained army I have little experience but I do know how to work with my men." A few moments stopped after he spoke and he lowered his arms down to two sheathes that rested at his waist. He gripped the hilts protruding from these sheaths and he drew two broadswords.
"As you can see I am more experienced with the sword." he slowly twisted his hands as he spun the blades beside him in the air. "If you are looking for something alittle different I would have to discuss this with my brothers. One is an expert with archery while the other is a warrior of unprecendented power and is very well equipped with larger weapons such as a halberd."
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Wei Yan
New Member
Fears Are Chains. Don't Be Held Back By Them, Make Them Into Weapons
Posts: 35
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Palace
Jun 10, 2010 1:53:07 GMT
Post by Wei Yan on Jun 10, 2010 1:53:07 GMT
The warrior leaned forward in his seat, listening thoroughly as the new comer laid out his resume. The boy seemed to have some experience, but as one would imagine, Wei Yan was a man of action not titles and words. He has lead troops? Heh... I guess well see in due time, thought the warrior. Then everything changed...
The new comer drew blade. He was obviously not trying to be threatening, but the warrior didn't see that to begin with. He saw a weapon drawn in the throne room. He instinctively reached for the spear on his back, but it was still gone. With that he rose up slowly as the new comer began his weapon drill. It as then reason sang true over the instinct and the warrior just crossed his arms over his chest. He didn't notice to now, but his breathing had become heavy and sharp. He had entered into that home he loved so much, war, but he quickly had pulled himself from it. Once the new comer was done with his drill, Yan again took his seat and just stared at him for a moment, once again sizing him up.
"It would seem your name spreads even farther than Chang An, my lord, Ma Teng." It was all the warrior could say. His mind was still in a struggle to maintain self-control. After a few moments that felt like decades in his conscious mind, the warrior relaxed and took the familiar pose of his elbows on his knees.
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Palace
Jun 10, 2010 2:47:17 GMT
Post by Zhu Jun on Jun 10, 2010 2:47:17 GMT
The Govenor sat in silence listening to Chen's tale, his frame did not move and continued to focus on the young boy.. Tie moved somewhat when the broadswords were taken into hand, it seemed Wei Yan also prepared for an attack; Ma Teng, however, did not..even though this boy was young, anyone knew that it would be foolish to attempt anything upon his person; his General would have pounced to the defensive and Tie would rise with an attack before he could close the proximity. Settling back down, the Govenor's son glanced to Wei, a good man he believed..already about to disarm him. The minimal words spoken by the General made Teng chuckle a little, indeed it was true. "I did not know that the Southerners cared for my name." Another smirk as he took a sip of tea before commenting on what Chen had said previously..
"To unsheath your sword in a hall like this could present a sign of threat to the Govenor, mark yourself next time; otherwise, I may not be able to control the strength that my trusting General possesses." The tone was light hearted, not meant to be serious but more of a joke..another smirk and chuckle to prove this. Teng took to stroking his goatee again whilst he thought further of the boy before him. "Bandits can become hard to control, even by their devouted leader. It is impressive for a youth. So, would these relatives of yours be joining you in Wuwei?" To gain two extra heads for his force was a good prospect, quite good infact and by the sounds of it the three Chens would seem quite a team when working together. "If so, then station your followers within Wuwei. A warrior such as yourself shall be quite beneficial for our army." Smiling, the Govenor gestured for the serving maid to be by his side; if he wished for tea, she would pour..wine, she would pour.. Or if he simply wished to return to his followers and brothers to tell them the news, then he had permission to leave as well...
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Palace
Jun 10, 2010 2:56:19 GMT
Post by Chen Zen on Jun 10, 2010 2:56:19 GMT
Having really not thought about the possible consequences of drawing his swords Zen began to notice the abrupt movements of the two generals. Thinking about it for a moment accompanied by the words of the son of Ma Teng Zen quickly sheathed his two swords. He somewhat however smiled slightly. He looked straight forward towards the general Ma Tie had spoken of. "I would much appreciate to test my skills against a man of your caliber."
He didn't even skip a beat as he changed the target of his gaze back to Ma Teng. "The answer to your querie is yes. My brothers are on there way here as we speak along with around 2000 soldiers from the southlands. I had gone ahead of them to make preparations with you my lord." he once again like earlier lowered his body down to a knee and gazed down at the ground. "I wish that my brothers and I can become useful to you my liege."
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Wei Yan
New Member
Fears Are Chains. Don't Be Held Back By Them, Make Them Into Weapons
Posts: 35
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Palace
Jun 10, 2010 18:31:08 GMT
Post by Wei Yan on Jun 10, 2010 18:31:08 GMT
As much as he may have wanted a good duel to loosen up and test the ability of the new comer, Chen Zen, Wei Yan just nodded and smiled to himself. It seemed as though all the talking he was needed for was done, and there was much to do.
"My lord, as much as I'd love to stay and enjoy another conversation, we do have much to do." he started before rising from his seat, "I'll take my leave and begin preparing my men. Whenever it is the proper time to go, just send my second and I'll begin the march."
After finishing he punched a fist into open palm and bowed to his lord and quickly making his way to the front guards to not only leave the palace but to retrieve his weapon.
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Palace
Jun 10, 2010 18:39:52 GMT
Post by Zhu Jun on Jun 10, 2010 18:39:52 GMT
The Govenor smiled, liking the fact he gained a family into the embrace of his jurisdiction; to work as one would benefit him greatly. Looking upon his General, there was no time as the present..they had to keep things moving to be taken seriously within this realm and the commodities had to halt. Nodding in acknowledgement of what Chen spoke of, Teng sat up straight and gestured to both the young man and Wei. "I am grateful for such words young Chen, your abilities shall blossom into our forces and act as quite the catalyst. However, you shall not rest for long. It is time that we did not simply waited for things to happen within the region of Xiliang." The tone became more authoritative, showing all who was within the hall the reasons for his leadership being concrete within the regions of both his homeland. "General Wei, prepare your men and head for Tianshui. Master Chen, follow suit; prepare those who follow you and journey with Wei Yan." The hand gestured toward the young man who sat closest to the Govenor, Ma Tie. "My Son, prepare the siege weapons for the journey, you shall act as relief for both Wei and Chen; if they see our strength they maybe more reluctant to use arms against us. However, this does not mean we shall simply barge into them, as it could lead to dangerous repocutions. Both Chen and Tie, follow the orders of General Wei.."
Rising from the dais, Teng showed that this was the realm he excelled in..the adrenaline increasing within the tones of his voice. "When Tianshui is within our jurisdiction, then General Wei and Master Chen shall remain there to place order within the city; Tie, join me in Anding." Finally, the Govenor bowed to each being seperatly and had a smirk upon his lips..he did not need to wish them luck, as the faith within them was strong; even though another new recruit, he did not place mistrust in him. How could he? It would place morale in a hardened position, also, the young man must flourish.
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Palace
Jun 12, 2010 16:29:32 GMT
Post by Huang Zhong on Jun 12, 2010 16:29:32 GMT
The doors of the palace audience chamber swung open in greeting for Huang Zhong. His stride showed the pride he felt as a warrior, the survivor of many battles. The normal spring in the archer's step, however, was not there today; the old man had ridden a long way from his resident province of Jiang Dong to be here in Wu Wei, a rather long distance across unfamiliar terrain. His men were practically exhausted, and had trudged up to the gates of Wu Wei instead of marching; they had looked more like rag tags then trained soldiers. The northen guards had nonetheless been very surprised to see southern men in their territory. One could also tell that these tired, weary men were no amateurs. Each one wore a weapon that was worn with age, and cared for with the utmost scrutiny.
Huang Zhong smiled as he stopped before the throne in the chamber, saluting Ma Teng. It had been some time since Huang Zhong had seen the northern lord. A few months ago, he had seen this fierce but serene man in a tavern in Jiang Dong, screening him and other lords for employment. And in the end, he had chosen Ma Teng, warrior of the North.
"Lord Ma Teng, it warms this old man's heart to see you again. Many lords did I meet in Jiang Dong, all who sought my employ. Some were very lacking in their ideals. Others were only interested in their own personal conquest, hiding their intentions with the self justification of the Han. Yet, there were a few whose caliber as mine shined as brightly as a polished gemstone held up in the sun."
Huang Zhong knelt down on one knee and bowed his head. As a respectable warrior, he was obligated to show proper respect, especially to one he intended to serve.
"Of all those gemstones, you, Lord Ma Teng, shone the brightest in my eyes. My mighty bow is yours to command, and I have brought one thousand strong with me: five hundred swords of Jiang Dong, agressive fighting men who will fight any foe. Two hundred and fifty riders, who have been trained to be ruthless hunters that show no mercy. And lastly, two hundred and fifty bowmen, capable of bringing death flying to the enemy with ominous wings."
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Palace
Jun 14, 2010 15:14:26 GMT
Post by Zhu Jun on Jun 14, 2010 15:14:26 GMT
The Govenor of Wuwei believed his visit to the South fruitless, having a feel within his gut that the Veteran he held so highly was now serving another regional Lord of this realm; such was the life, to see talented men serve under another. However, all was not lost when the guard was raised and throughout the Palace surged the arrival of Southern troops; never had they been seen so far North. Teng had a hope that it would be the Archer, perhaps the Heavens had shone upon him once again to bestow such skill into his forces.. It was confirmed, Huang Zhong had travelled from Jiangdong to serve him, excitement filled his being as he ordered the guards to let him enter without any trouble. In his presence the Govenor watched as he bowed lowly and spoke compliments to him, out of all that rose..he had been chosen? Indeed it was flattering, but one that Teng would not allow to rasie any form of an ego. With a smile, he descended the raised dais to stand before the Veteran. "Since our meeting within the tavern, I have prayed to the Heavens that they grant me another visitation; to speak with such a man of this land whose experience can surpass a thousand. I did not know my heart was heard, not only that, but to have you serve our forces.." The Govenor helped Huang to his feet, he would be treated as an equal..to emphasise this, Teng stood back to bow to the Veteran; as a brother..
Gesturing to the officials and the to a serving maid, a raised dais, similar to that of Teng, was brought for Huang to take seat while the maid was placed to serve the Veteran with any whim he wished. Taking to his dais again, the Govenor was clearly happy for the Archer's presence; as if the mind came to rest. "I must confess Master Huang, that I am still unsure to why many place their blades in the honour of the Han..indeed commendable, yet somewhat futile. Indeed I serve the Emperor as a true vassal would, yet, there is no life within the Empire; the organs failed, leaving a mere skin that lingers." It did sadden the Govenor to see the current Empire collapse, however, how else was this land meant to progress without the reigning State becoming history?.. As tea was brought to both Teng and Huang Zhong, a sigh left his lips as he gazed upon the liquid. "Since our last meet, I have taken An Ding into my embrace, no longer could I watch my clansmen bring suffer upon them; with me the Qiang shall halt their attacks, never breaking the honour of kin. I have also sent two of my officers to bring Tian Shui into our jurisdiction, it is a mere start to gain the entire Wu Wei region. A vantage point to view upon the realm." It may have been strange to Huang, that the Govenor always used the reference of 'our' when speaking to his Kingdom..believing it was not solely his, though a figure head and many looked upon him to lead, Teng knew he could not do it without the solidarity of each soldier, officer, official ..etc.. that served him..
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