The Crane of Wondering Mantis

[Zhu Jun]

The Crane is a tempered beast, while a Mantis a simpleton who shackes from side-to-side making the days easier by the minute; though many have created martial arts form via these miniscule insects..how strange! To the Moon a dream is too far to reach and the days too long to spend idely around with a spear in ones rectum, the ministers of old rushing to-and-fro pushing orders here and thrusting punishments there. Such would not do!! Nonetheless, there were nymphs who desired to perch upon branch of the Mother of the West and dive into a serene pool of immortality. How as the cure?! The monkey happy in spirit, but dull in occupation steals from the townsfolk ignoring the laws of the land, yet why are they not placed to the courts? Who knew that a sing grain of rice could make a being content with issues of the past, to gaze into the present by reading the future; what marvels some people can be!

Upon wheeled chairs came three beings, all with their respected melancholy form of transportation; pulled by a horse each the trio chuckle into nothingness..knowing the abyss of fountains is a simple term that no one truely understands, nor can they see beyond the grass of reason. "Are you sure we're in Chengdu?" The eldest of the trio spoke, in a delightful tone that seemed not to care for the harshness of this land, such as the duck tacking advantage of the goose while the pheasant of many takes hold of the cattle. His name? Such audacity to ask such a thing! Indeed one days of infamous beings came to an end, yet this man's life seemed to continue. The Master Black Horn, the rumoured mystic and marvel of the wisdom that was granted to him by the Mountains of Tianzhu.. Could it be?! Oh, indeed it is my good chap of the seven ravines that travel to the gates of the waiting goat. The one whose name that runs from the mouth in a sense of bitter sweetness, Zuo Ci!

"You doubt my knowledge you old coot? Of course this is Chengdu, why else would your Crane be here?" Another voice of many, whose plantations were left to rouse the nations and the divinations to please the Heavens when they desired to play Chess. Who be this younger talent of worth, that the makes the chickens dance in rows of six? A being far beyond his exterior, with a mind that searches the Heavens to place the route within a peach to the fore. A wonderous sight indeed! Do not jest my friend, for this wondering spirit, does not wonder, for he accompanies the trio by fascination! Do you mean it to be? Oh Indeed my clever fellow! Guan Lu, one who touches the Heavens with a mere toe and they bless his eyes with the past that tells the truth of the present, to then lie of the future in a coherent manner to give birth to the yersteryear! "Chengdu? Why are we here?.." A third voice, indeed the Heavens bless them very much. However, the youngest of the travelling trio; taking a relcined manner within the wheeled chair. Have you heard of this chap whose intelligence reaches to the realms and repels the ignorance of the fish? Oh yes sire, I have, one whose name well known to the masses. A friend of the Imperials, a confidant to the brave and a wizard to the extremists.. You guessed correctly chum! Mi Heng, perhaps the most convoluted complexities this land has produces, with his elloquent insults that subtley confused yet impresses? Oh ho! Such a being I have been the pleasure to speak with, the conversation ended in wine being thrown upon a donkey!

"Who resides here Ci?" Fanning himself with a fan of goose feathers, Guan turned to look at the old Crane that purched upon its master's chair..the old coot happily combing his beard with the amazing jade comb. "It is indeed one of much piety, though not to his clansmen; Liu Yan!" To the fore the three continued their way, spontaneous boutes of laughter errupted for no reason at all..their inner monkey leaping from rope to find the duck that quacks bloody murder at the tumbling goat of tramps. "That man is a mere bucket, do you not see?" Purged of all caring to what people respect, yet within the aura of the paddy fields, Mi is known for a sharp tongue and blunt mind..it knows no discrimination. Such is the life of a man who enjoys simple things, indeed similar to that of the flatulating monk who spends time within the trees attempting to immitate the monkeys of pigeon watch! Prey tell my good man, did this monk have the gaul to hurl his feaces at passersby? Oh! Such a tale indeed, one must await the cockrell to waken the populace of bees to know the truth.. "A bucket?.. Explain this reasoning you cattle of the deformed shire." The Master Black Horn enjoyed the squabling, it proved to entertain the ferrets without poising a weapon whose use is merely to stab a fish within a lake..and even that proved to be difficult! Especially when the fish begins to beguile you with fruits that you have never seen, oh the humble pear of tanacity!

Leaning back, Mi devours the cud and purges the air with the waves of justice to find the hiding tiger within the elephant. "A bucket is used for water, is it not? It does not desire to be placed under such circumstances, does it not? If you see, it does not like to be so dirty; yet, the maid continues to use it. Thus, Liu Yan, does not wishes to be of different stock. As he, the bucket, simply rithes around trying to form himself into a bowl!" The others could not content such laughter to this pathetic attempt, though respected as one never knows when genius can be bestowed to you by the crow of devlish peaches. Remeber the days of old, when one could simply jig upon a barrel without anyone throwing a show to your groin? Oh indeed I do sire!..

Continuing their path of nonchalance, the trio turn to the fields..full of small insects who pertrude the song of the goose. Oh to hear the horses sing when the snow takes hold of the pig's testicals to turn it's inner sew into the mighty hawk!..

[Zhuge Liang]

(That was the strangest post ever! I loved it!)

Liu Yan had left the court of reminiscence and had ascended to a much greater path of moral equity within the city. It would prosper, for the city he had helped forge was that of a symbolical nature to his dreams and aspirations, and although he could treasure the fact that he was now alone and in sublime peace of man, he felt tired and weak. Torn asunder buy the weight of living, but not because the whims of his people had stretched like the bird of an eagle, no … he was drained from the perils of war, from death and humanity.

He had not sought deep thought as he gazed ahead – in fact he had tried to avoid those days where one could sit blissfully and care not to think. It was in those idyllic days when to deliberate the ideals of man was not to feel pain or burden, when to sip the fruitful vintages of wine was not to caress the demons back that had held his empire in such a fierce grip. Then…all was simple, and as he gazed over his city he could not help but think back to such a simple state of being.

Heh…Being…it was a word that had brought him much grief and shame, a word that threw him back into the reality of his petty existence. Zhuge Ke would be behind him now, taking in the air and the fruitful scent of his cities many marketers, but he would not sit and look at the people as Liu Yan would, he would not see death or pain – only flourishing prosperity and content, maybe even happiness.

Liu Yan turned, and although his eyes streamed with the glare of the mighty sun he could not help but shed a loose tear that beckoned the furrows of his cracked skin. He was not sad in the sense that he was weak – but regretful, regretful that he had taken so long to make his mark on the country, regretful to those who had died beneath him and regretful of just…life. He had aspired high and the penalty for his deeds were great to any ruler, but alone he was not – and the eyes of Zhuge Ke had reaffirmed his conditioning. He was fine…everything was always just fine.

“This city was once a strong-hold for the Western Han Dynasty.” He spoke quietly, taking the reins of a passing horse and moving it to the stables on behalf of a fellow craftsman. They smiled, yet Liu Yan bore them no attention, he eyes glued only to the floor below him.

“When I asked to move here there was nothing but a few market stands and a rundown palace. No, the true gem of Yi lies north of here, guarded by a fool.”

He spoke of Han Zhong, and turned as he continued his walk across the country. “You please me though.” He paused for a moment, recalling the man’s words back in the palace, “Dreams are a wonderful thing, though one must realise when a dream is a perceived possibility. You see, not all dreams are viable to the worlds existence, even with good intent, sometimes a dream must simply remain a dream.”

He walked further, and paused as he saw the open fields of the farms, “Zhang Jiao had dreamt of a yellow dragon and had sought the divine protection of his turban rebellion, that dream was a dream that never should have been realised. You see - a singular existence, a single purpose, dream or aspiration bares the responsibility of the masses. For one action done another must be set in stone. It is sad, but Zhang Jiao is the one who deemed it worthy to challenge the Han, and as a result hundreds of thousands have perished since that long forgotten spring.”

He smiled as he gazed ahead at three men in carts, and raised a brow at their purpose in town. “But then one must follow the collective, and when people desire change one must be prepared to help fashion it. I hope to do more than that.”

He walked closer to the three men ahead of him, “I plan to rebuild the country we live in, for what we have now reeks of poverty, of course – I do it with the Han’s unfortunate blessing.”

A few years ago the Han had been on the verge of collapse, and since the latest event regarding the new Emperor Feng everything had changed, and the empire had seized all popular favour and power. He did not know why, but even he felt himself trusting the Han once more – regardless of his own plans or intentions.

“Say, do you know those men?”

He pointed a hand to the three men, and then walked closer to the trio. He did not appear threatening, though his hand had naturally turned to the scabbard he held close by. It was instinct, though he did not expect trouble to present itself.

“Greetings and Salutations. I am Liu Yan.” He roared his introduction with a smile, and then gazed back at Zhuge Ke. “Tell me, do the seeds of hard work bring fruition to the masses – or do we aspire growth in other means when dealing with those we have yet to meet or see.”

(Really weird…and quite poor actually I rambled and I’m racing the clock because I have dishes to do lol)

[Zhu Jun]

To believe the fruition of the masses, percieved in a small glass that harbours no ill will other than to grow beyond it's worth. As the trio came to a gentle halt, they turned to recieve the speaker whose smile was quite welcoming..as the roc to its prey that dwells within the honeycomb of desires and truths. Chuckling as the days grew into years, rather than the minutes into seconds, it was the white-haired one to take the fore; perhaps even today seemed melancholy..however, it was always a strange feeling when the peach rooted into the shoe of existance. "Greetings stranger of country, we three are beings of means that desire nothing that the simplest forms." The infamous Jade comb continued its stroking of the Crane's beard, it seemed at home embedded within the soft silken like strands. Indeed the young fellow must be proud of such a growth! Oh, sire do not jest in such a manner. Yet, placing the veilf of ignorance was attempting to persuade the goat of auspicious ceremonies to swim within the floods of woman.

A nettle could strike with precision of the shadow newt, not truely understanding the path it charged upon yet felt as if the skies of golden streams were raining upon them. "You must be 'the bucket' we have heard so much about?" Laughter from the trio, in an order so chaotic it flew into the clouds with such elegance it appeared to take form of a just play. Indeed my good fellow, that Guan Lu enjoys the jest of others..especially that of a frog minded rooster. Too true, too true! A begrudging wave of prosterity could score the Heavens with a single dip into the moon that shone upon the nymph's body. Mi was the tongue of sauded honesty, into the orchard of plums he devour the last owl of nonchalance to welcome this stranger of the country. "Indeed speak clear, old fool of the Heavens. To this is the very being, handle and all! Governor Liu Yan. How fairs this, have you finally taken to the bowl?"

Such company this old coot enjoys! Do not jest further, yet this mean speak of riddles that impress those of the middle ages, his timing is concrete that washes into the dust of time. Master Black Horn simply watches as the curdling of the grass becomes apparent, the Mantis shacking along the branches of trees that turn the worm of recreation. Oh how the flowers look delightfully red in their suckling light! "To Chengdu we came to view the forests and delight ourselves with many fruits it has to offer. Stand aloof Governor, for we three could be known to many; thus, we become fruits of the masses!" The comb placed to one side, the Cran upon the frame calls its song to the fore..oh how it's ugly tones brings merriment to the ears of the tree monkey! Catch the frog to gain the whale. Dear friend, you speak with the honest of the dragon constellation! "To my left.." A fan was brought forth, not like the goose feather, but it was made of large vibrant red cards..all strung together with a worm like substance.. Thread? Oh, ingenius invention! The cotton of many and the way in which seamtresses design the waves of shore, to envelope stones that dance in the gloom of boating excursions. "..Is the diviner of stars and alchemist of the Celestial tables; Guan Lu."

Indeed! Indeed! Why could a man such as he waft himself with the goose feathers, are we sure they have been cleaned by the pool of non-existance? Speak clearly, toads cannot croak without a spoon to help them eat their soup! "To my right.." The card-fan trailed to a reclined figure, one who calls bucket! Aha, the very being who desires to know how the tiger elopes the stampeding elephant. The every one chum! "..Is a man whose name known to all Imperial, the nobles fear the tongue and cower in the very waggle of it; Mi Heng." Another squark from the Crane upon the frame, whose wings open for comfort beyond the stars; its gaze is complete yet there are unfinished furnishing to be had. Master Black Horn could not speak of his own wears, it would be far too arrogant..how the turtle desires to be so adoring. "Your speaker, gentlemen, is Master Black Horn; Zuo Ci. Master of the Tianzhu Mountain and haunter of the celestial bureaucracy."

Goose feather tipped, the breeze satifsying; words were used and took their fill. A dance of joyous occasion, as the oxen takes flight into the mountain of sorrows, its journey to the Nether Realm complete..the goat of waiting dreaming its chance to find the admirer who sends its fruits into a world of daring skill. The weapons of old simply turning upon themselves as they waft to-and-fro from the uncontrollable wind that lives beneath the water's surface. "What be you of the serving girl Governor Liu? Do we wish to feed from you or simply take the water to clean the privy?" One could not help to pertrude, of course the gibbon enjoys to play the games of chess; it could surely win against the mightiest foe! Oh sire, does this mean the Mantis is prepared to coo at the Crane, such arrogance! Indeed my young fool, they seem not to care for the intamacies of youth diving each particle into the stars that dwell within all. Perhaps the meat shall be tasted before serving?...

[Jiang Wei]

With the three figures looming ahead, it would be impolite, or, perhaps even a signature trait of untold wealth and power to simply ignore them. With Liu Yan awaiting response to a raft of pondering questions, he greeted each man in turn, looking each in the eye whilst all the while gathering his thoughts. Gently caressing his shaved chin, he turned once more to his Lord, noticing his experience in dealings such as these..."Without dreams we are nothing, there is little point without aspiration to succeed wherever possible. It is true that not all dreams come to fruition... yet what would be the purpose of life if we were simply to be content with every day life."

Liu Yan was a powerful individual, speaking of great cities, however his indication of fondness for his people revealed a softer inner core to his being. He appeared caring towards his people and at all times responsible for their lives, yet at the same time was wary of them too. Zhuge relaxed his hands once more, running his fingers gently through some nearby crop... "It is the simple things in life that most overlook, crops, fresh water and a shelter in which to sleep are paramount to out very existence. For every man in all of china is wish this to be so.... however it is with regret that I do not know these three individuals before us." He paused breifly, casting back to memories of his youth and the various encounters in Tian Shui with Jiang Wei. "For every good deed, something else goes to counteract it, it is our willingness to serve and obey the people that can make or break any individual. Without their support we are nothing, likewise without theirs we are also. Zhang Jiao believed..... in equality throughout, however in life I believe there must always be an elite." The young man glanced back and forth between both parties, ensuring his point had not be misinterpreted before his eyes fixated once more upon Liu Yan.

"If Zhang Jiao had succeeded with his dream, then what? If equilibrium was reached, surely there is potential for even greater chaos and destruction than during the conflict." By now, Zhuge's tone had shifted to a more serious one, his words becoming entangled and flowing like one. His legs may traveled long, yet his mind was always fresh and ready, the mind has control over all actions and with power over the mind, little was impossible. Conservation was key to maintaining posture and this often gave him little time to enjoy walks such as these. Cast deep into thoughts, delving deep into the far crevasses, he recalled his first meeting with his companion Jiang Wei...

"My Lord, allow me, if you will... to cast my mind back. Life is defined by the actions we take, as well as the actions of others and it was there on the eastern outskirts of Tian Shui I encountered two entirely different men. At the time I knew neither, both completely engaged in full flown combat." His face remained positive, showing little emotion, Zhuge enjoyed the sharing of tales, particularly if they had a point, yet he did not show it. Taking a quick dip of the head he gave his robes a gentle tapping to shake of any loose dust..."These men appeared to quarrel over one solitary item, yet I did not know which was morally correct and so could not act accordingly. One man wished to take from another, a stolen possession or piece of work. At all times must we guard those things close to us, otherwise our work serves little purpose, yet there comes a time when we all must take serious action if we are to succeed. We must strive to bring fruition to the masses, however when necessary we must not shy from use of the blade."

Taking a few steps, Zhuge strolled somewhat casually back over to his lords side, before gently pressing a coin into the palm of his hand. Flipping it and running it between his fingers, before placing it back within his pouch, he now turned to focus upon more recent events..."The Emperor, as recently witnessed, is not an ordinary individual. His command is large and his influence flows far beyond that of our borders, therefore... at present.. he is key to the steps we take along the path we walk. Other Lords may not value his worth, it is foolish for any... currently.. to seek to overthrow." He thought of the coin, its engravings, its cooling touch to the fibers of the young scholars skin. "Everything has a value if used correctly."

[Zhuge Liang]

Indeed. The equilibrium of man was always on the path of the unsteady dragon. There was no real justice, no real honour. The world was divided by social expectation, by ambition and carefully laid plans – but no one ever stood back and looked at the country or the nation as a whole, and it was because of that unwillingness to adapt that Liu Yan felt the country fall into the clutches of the shadowy beast.

Yes, the beast was a devourer, yet formed no natural presence. It was the abolishment of a singular soul, a purpose driven to weaken the minds of others, to wrap within its clutches the divinities bestowed upon men by gods or by elders. That was the world; that was what people fought and clung onto – a false dream, an empty promise.

Liu Yan sighed as Zhuge Ke spoke of his stories, of his experiences and his judgement. It was true, a man would eventually need to apply pressure, but when squeezed, the grips of the fragile reality of existence would slip away – when held, the dream would shatter. Dreams were everything and yet they were also nothing, just ideals passed on as the social network changed with the passing of days. Soon, another man would rise with another ideal and another war would ensue as a result, this was the destiny of men, this was the life they all fought and died for.

It was ugly.

“The purpose of life is not to cling to a dream though.” He stated, “No…life is far too precious to spend it in the dwellings of ideals. Existence is a luxury, one we all try to fully comprehend and appreciate, but the ideals of one will always clash with another. To suggest that to live is to aspire to those ideals would then mean that we aspire for war and chaos, that the very land we pretend to fight for is in fact plagued with the urgency of demise. I do not seek a life of want … the true life exists where we bare no holding, in nature and its appreciative force.”

He knew what Zhuge Ke had intended to incite by his words, and it was true to a degree that affirmative action was needed, but not at the expense of a plagued war that could never truly cease to be.

“Zhang Jiao would never have created peace, because he, like so many others believed in equal opportunity. We defy the gods and we try so hard to match their stepping – we feel as if we are in control of our destinies, that we through mortal means can change this world. But tell me, is the ground beneath us affected by our bloodshed, does the tree waver in happiness at our armies…No, we control not the world but our own actions, and the world will prosper regardless whether we cease to be or not.”

He turned to the three men, and he bowed a greeting as the introductions were brought forth, “The opportunity exists within the individual, and this land will live without all of us, but one thing is certain Zhuge Ke…we do need change.”

He smiled at the irony in his statement, at the fact that although he was against global change he knew it was required. “There is always an order to any economic standing; the bearer of fruits must first pluck the means before they may share the winnings. We all must grow before we can bare the responsibilities of others. The Han is such a thing, a growing opportunity, something to look out for and use according to proper law. But it is not power or glory I seek, only peace. I may fight a war and I may remove the blemished people within this nation, but what comes of the new generation, and the generation after that. I wonder if fighting is even worth it at times.”

He sighed again as he shuffled his way closer to the three men, he had heard them – and he had smiled at the comments they had made, “But then I look at my cities and my borders and I see opportunity for change. You see, the Han economic structure is fragile, it is based on a very harsh system of taxation and corruption – and even if strengthened by force, the Han Empire is still very economically weak, for the people do not wish to fund their many wars with the people that claim to save them. I am just one of those regional lords, one of many striving for something greater, but not for the world – but for the country. There is a proper system to be placed among these citizens, one where the economy can flourish, but I am not a foolish idealist. I know of the troubles and the wars to come, and it pleases me to have such officers as you and Jiang Wei beneath me. Though...I am sorry.”

He bowed his head, smiling to relieve himself of the pressures of the day. He had thought too much today, and his resolution had only weakened as a result of such pondering, “Will you help me shape this region Zhuge Ke, by moving with me to Han Zhong, by claiming a city that rests within the empire we strive to one day surpass. I need a place of heritage, of ancestral burial and history – something concrete to declare my intentions. I too think of the people, and the rules we apply, and as you said…sometimes affirmative action is required, peace has stained these lands long enough…I fight for change…and I fight for a future my sons and I can be proud to be a part of.”

It was strange, but Liu Yan had felt weakened by this conversation. He was speaking to a man firm in his thoughts, and he doubted whether the man before him would understand his complexity. He was different, he was a realist – and he could not help but scowl at the idea of the ideals of man, for they too were as changing as the passing seasons. And yet, even though he fought against those ideals, he too was driven by them.

“There is no such thing as equality.” He declared his final statement harshly, and his eyes shuddered as they rose to meet his officers, “Equality can never truly exist, that too is why Zhang Jiao would have failed. As you said, there must be an order, an elite head. That way the supplier hired the labourer and the labourer becomes the provider for their families – and money always rises. Equality is to create opportunity, and yet our society does not deem us fit to be equals, for we are not. Some are born with greatness, whilst others have greatness thrust upon them. In the end there is always a social or economic table, where one leads the rest. I just hope the world sees it before it plagues itself with even more war.”

He scowled again, and then turned to his guests.

“You speak in riddles and I apologise for having made you wait for my response.”

He turned to Zhuge Ke and smiled, hopefully he too would engage in the next bout of dialogue, one he imagined would be far more complex than the wishes of man and beast.

“To wash the privy one must conform to the social norms of society, and yet you hold yourself as a bearer, no…you are not here to take the water, nor do I see you as men do take the fish that swim my waters.”

He gazed at the surroundings, thinking of a way to put across his next bout of ideas. It was useless, he was speaking with strangers, and their comments fell on awkward ears. He did not grasp their meaning, for they spoke in riddles that defied the intelligence of academic study. No, these men spoke in a way that was hard to ever understand, even if the words rolled seamlessly together as one.

“I am honoured though to meet your acquaintance.”

He smiled awkwardly, and then turned to the trees and the crops that grew, he found a flower growing close to the road he stood on, and bent down to pluck its roots, “If this very flower is the visible result of an infinitude of complicated goings on in the bosom of the earth and in the air above, then is the similarity of work an art to the product of strange activities in the human mind?”

He turned to Mi Heng, and then smiled again, “In a world forever changing the materialistic gifts of the earth mean very little to the settle touch of a human. For what is all of this within its simplest most depraved of forms?”

He turned to Zhuge Ke, and then turned back to those stood before him, “You speak in riddles that I do not comprehend, and yet in doing so you articulate the idea that you too have no idea what you’re pointing at. To speak of complex design is only intelligent when the meaning behind such a comment is worthwhile. Tell me, why are you here, if not to sow the seeds that lay beneath you? Or is it that you too have come to some grand conclusion, whereby your visit here warrants my attention.”

He laughed, and then stood back to await their response. He did not know how even he would have replied to such talk, but he smiled at the knowledge that his own brain still worked in a fashionable design he could be proud of.

(sorry. It’s long and a lot of it is me poorly expressing my ideals and Gong, good luck with replying to what I said lol I did your trick, speak without really thinking much into it hehe)

[Zhu Jun]

From the trio spurted a chuckle as the three turned to the dust of life in order to qualm the spirits who wished to strangle the speakers of death. Indeed truth spoke of development is needlessly wasteful when one envolopes oneself in deceit and simple naivity to tarnish the thoughts of those who can. To the fore Guan took, to be cut by the latter and upholded by the ghostly figure of a child whose willingness to weep at will branded him fool. "To believe such humanity could be represented within the delicacy you take hold, for I see within your being; do not spout words of Nether Realm to form a truth that is neither here or there." It was Mi Heng, a legend of tongue and knife to the tear that purged all within its own image. Master Black Horn simply watched on to the beings he placed as close companions, enjoying the banter..enjoying time to take in an air unknown to the Crane; which, squarked in the night's abyss to the turtles who roam sands to gaze upon the cattle-folk. "For such a flower needs not ambition, it does not wish to outgrow; merely exist within the 'equilibrium'. However, it's dreams trampled by the tyrant's hand whose unconcious tomfoolery shows no recognition of life and death; thus causing him to tear it's balance from the very soil and thrust it aside..proclaiming one of peace, dear sir I must object."

Squark the Crane tailed, indeed the sire has the sharp tongue to pass upon the speech of a friend to hear the voice he purges. A scourge of the arts! Do not jest as so my good fellow, for the voices of forests can travel far and wide; if such a syllable of this carries we shall be doomed into the valley of the wanting goat! "To establish concrete in the North, you foolish wine bearer of the heavenly monkey! Seek peace thus thrust away the shell that all take refuge under; to turn the pale against the handle! Peace you wish for? Then go to the Capital and rectify. You wish for dictatorship, such as old and the future beings; the Crane weeps to such news." The goose feathered fan took its moment and rose from the wafting breeze to silence the friend, submission was done to the hysteric; in the background the old coot continuously chuckling to the seen before them..indeed a journey worth hiding under a stone for!

"Governor Liu, what you see within your words is mere fault. For how could one not wish to overthrow into self ellovation while bring 'peace to the land'. Such nonsence the many speak, we have travelled this realm and found no truth in such beings. Do you not see the sea from earth?" Fan continued to place the breeze upon the skin of the diviner, one whose elloquent voice was that of a celestial phoenix stroking the turtle's shell. "You walk a path you proclaim is for your kinsmen, yet the sword you wield tells a different position. To fortify ancestral grounds within Hanzhong would be a mere insult to the house you have just spoken contently of." Leaning back, Guan hoped the old coot would speak up on the matter. Did he chum? Oh of course he did not, such an audience he became to be entertained by such folly! Ah, such a master of the wits. He does not speak, yet says many? If you wish to place such a theory, that is your own being my sire..

"Labourer of the cattle, you should not wave from your cage that is given to you; biting a hand that can easily take the life from a soul and toss it into the Nether Realm. Simplest forms veil themselves from the likes of a Master of deceit." The tongue had its fill, the liquid of the flying peacock a simple measurement that had simmered to the brim. As the young maiden traversed into rhymes, the Master Black Horn finally took the fore; seeing only mischeif in the delighted pigeon. The card-fan placed onto the lap and Crane cried to hear the words of a being who had taken wrath into vision, battling the complexities of the crab and eaten the woes of fish. "Young fellow, how do you plan to take Hanzhong without causes ripples in the Empire you apparently bow to? Furthermore, you wish to secure serenity for the younger generation? Yet, how do you plan on stepping this path without consuming the fame it shall bring you? Oh, I remember, such as you do not care for it? Such lies I have heard time again over these realms." Another chuckle, the Crane bowed and wept into the gorge of nonchalance.

It was indeed time to come to terms with what was spoken, something Master Black Horn was quick to the off; not wishing for his companions to speak out of terms. The monk took shelter in the Temple as the fox spirits deserted the meat of many, the goose took charge and proclaimed its significance. "Such hypocracy cannot be, in turn, ridiculed with hypocracy good fellow; for the latter shall become the lesser of two fools. We travel here to see something of unqiue standing, yet our time within has merely shown similarity of the past. Our conclusions are only known to each other, yet they can be guessed by many and a trivial matter occur." Leaning back into the wheeled chair, the old coot smiled into the sky as he gazed upo nthe clouds placing answers upon his palate. Indeed it was a melancholy sight to view the moon nymph take the rabbit into hand and call it brethren; yet, such warms the heart when all knows chaos is a remedy of turbulance. "As we converse we gain our understandings, yet someone so alienated from those who have seen many do not wish to learn; demanding change, yet coiling in fear when it approaches. Yet, good fellow, if such is not placed into your smile then why continue this talk? Do not bow to that you seem uninteresting in, for you shall waste more than your own time. Tend to the fields if you wish to anger the birds who hold fate of crop within their beaks." Indeed, such nonsence can people speak! Of course, yet do not play the fool young man..do you not see within the strategem? Uh! Such cunning old coot! Yes, you must view closer to see the truth that wields a knife of excellence. Indeed a ploy to test the soul that wears a hat of office. So many have these beings come across who spout nothingness into a bucket of goose heads, they lick the frog and spit the innards of a ram.

Through laughter the examination was set, it was a privy council yet there were three as judgements; the diviner to the left, the old coot within and the tongue to the right..all gazing to hear the reply to such criticism and questions that were wrapped in the silken void of mentally questionable words. However, it had purpose, to find the being who could take the Jade into hand and continue the smile; instead of biting at the carving to reveal nothing more than dust..

[Jiang Wei]

There was a great deal to take in, Liu Yan, a complex man and one troubled by the consequences of his every movement was being stretched like a doll. Zhuge felt his point had hit home, there comes a time when one can do little else, especially if life is at stake. Evil exists on all levels, from the stealing of a coin to the slaughter of the young and innocent, it cannot be escaped. A beast may always be ravenous, its hunger everlasting, uncontrollable, however every once in a while it achieves something new and unprecedented. It is these moments that shape the future ... long ... long after we perish, they are a lesson learned, like Zhang Jiao, however it is how or if we remember them that can alter our destiny.

He could not make out what Liu Yan was thinking, nor could anyone else, his mind too complex and inter twined with doubts, eyes fixated with every word upon the three beings. Listening intently, it became clear that there was a more prominent being amongst the yet unidentified three... "In all forms of life there is an elite or leader of the pack, he can be loved one moment and in an instant loathed and feared. Likewise their view upon ourselves can change like the direction of the winds or the flying of the birds. We cannot simply stand idle at a crossroad, acting only upon the direction chosen by those beyond the realms of our control. If we are to strive to bring something new, a path must be chosen with utmost certainty, the manner in which we walk, or how many walk it is entirely up to the walker."

Reveling in the bouts of dialogue from all characters present, he did not wholesome understand the three at all, their words appearing at first glance to be of an unusually tangled and complicated nature. Yet what they spoke somehow made sense, it was strange yet at the same to measured as to generate a response that they may have perhaps already forseen... "My Lord, myself and my companions shall happily traverse these lands by your side and in your name. Ultimately no matter the words spoken here the manner in which we walk is your decision." He spoke in a softer tone, appeasing the glare, his face nigh on statuesque.

The walk from which he had hoped to gain an insight had transformed beyond comparison, there he stood, alongside Liu Yan, facing several unknown individuals. These individuals, he could not make out their purpose nor their intent and for a short while it was frustrating. He would wait, patiently as always, learning from the event as it happened, yet there was one point in particular he could not hold himself from responding... "What ever decision is taken it will not be simple. Every action you make brings fame regardless of whether you wish it or have even earned it. It cannot be taken away, merely forgotten like many of the brave souls past, scattered like their ashes over the land, lost in time forever more." He glanced between both figures, hiding his excitement at the prospect of such a debate.. "However, this matters not, it is how your actions are remembered by those of future life. People, other than those close may never truly understand your intentions... ill or otherwise."

He let his words settle, the winds carrying the various opinions back and forth as if by messenger. A lone bird flew above, circling, calculating its route, before landing swiftly, jabbing a large overgrown worm from the ground beneath its webbed feet. "If peace could be achieved, then surely it would be so, however violence is necessary for survival. If the bird is to live, it needs to take in order to get what it wants."

It was surprising even to Zhuge Ke that Liu Yan had entered into such a state, he wished not to pry any further into personal matters. As it stood, the tension was hardly bearable, the occasional bead of sweat dripping from his brow and landing upon his pushed back shoulders. He glanced upwards momentarily towards where the bird had once been, the bright sphere of the sun beaming down ray after ray. The sun, provider of many things good, yet also provider of many things not so. It gave life to all, every man being and child... however if it desired... it also has the power to end it. "Some aspects of life cannot be controlled.... the turning of the tides or the transition between seasons. Caring too much for the perceptions of others will lead nowhere other than to certain misery and gloom. If one is to succeed in his goal of bringing a better life for those of the future then it matters not what others think for they may not even be around to see the finished article." He would try, at the very least, to raise his lords spirit. Perhaps he would need it for the forthcoming battle ....struggle.... and clashing of the minds. Maybe it would even decide the fate of many....

[Zhuge Liang]

Liu Yan could do nothing as he held the flower within a clutched hand. He had absorbed it all, every blow, every recitation that came like a hammer-head to an undeserving skull - smelling only the remnants of a life now torn and destroyed. Yes, dead…like so many other things the blemished world had held together, when life and death were entwined as one – and when neither ever truly mattered to the undeserving eye. He had destroyed life, and in doing so he had created something else, for the bosom of the earth would recreate that which man had destroyed.

“The actions here affect what exactly?” He posed the question to any who would answer, his eyes never leaving the flower which he held in front of him. It was a beautiful thing, even if cut from the roots it prolonged its life, needing only so much to exist before it too would soon wither and fade with the times.

“Would you be naïve enough to think that peace is unachievable in means other than that of war? Have you really crossed the nation and its offerings, or do you sprout nonsense like so many other scholars before you.”

He whipped the tongue as he spoke, lashing not at the man but the ideal of man, the dream, the setting. He would remember each comment made and he would attack each one with his own ideology – even if wrong, he would retreat a happy man.

“We have lived and seen the mistakes of the past. It can be argued that neither solution is viable to a common peace, and others may argue that peace cannot be achieved whilst the human condition flourishes. You feel that I preach peace, and yet destroy it in this irrelevant manner.”

He tossed the flower aside, keeping an eye on the speaker who had caused such a strong emotion to flare and settle, “the balance of nature will always surpass that man can destroy, and even when threatened – it will fight back, for that is what the world is. A living organism, one capable enough to defeat the repellents that exist upon its surface. I preach peace, I do not preach life.”

He rose to the attention of the scholars, listening intently to the sound of the wind and the flicker of the trees. It was serene, and yet the mood had been set – their brains clashed.

“My will cannot bend, nor can my dreams be shattered by your words of trickery. You claim to be the all knowing and yet what you present are vague contradictions to the very history we live in. No...Im not stunted by your words, nor am I enraged by them.”

He bowed suddenly, almost smiling, “I will never seek the service of the Han, nor will I allow my wings to flutter beneath its watch. You may not see it, but the Han are responcibile for the Turban Rebellion, the wars, it did not start with Zhang Jiao – the corruption and chaos was fuelled many years before Zhang Jiao rose in protest. No, it is not the actions of the rebellion that destroyed the pretense of the Han power, but the Han and the court itself. You tell me I act as a dictator, or that is what I seek to aspire too, and yet I bare no such ill. I do not dictate to my people, I do not enforce a will that is not commonly passed to be ruled. I am fair, but I am without mercy for those who destroy the peace my lands have earned.”

He gazed at Zuo Ci now, his eyes bulging, yet not in anger but in caution. His words were taking a true form, and his ambitions were bearing fruition, “In the end…”

He turned away at last, and peered over at the trees and the crops once more, he did not have it in him to face his guests, no…what he felt now was shame, shame and anger.

“My ancestors, those of the Western Han would wail in their buriel puits if they could see or feel the pain this nation has embraced, and yet still...there is hope…WHY?”

He turned suddenly, not bothered that a tear strolled down his face and that his eyes bore the markings of a red lipstick, “WHY look to the Han now that Xian is dead, when he was but a puppet to a much stronger force of evil – why look to the Han when they could do nothing but throw us within the life of poverty and deceit. I WILL NOT favour them, not for the injustice they have wrought upon the people. I am no fool, and my heart does not bleed like my foolish relative Liu Bei. But I am firm in a just organisation – in a TRUE economic state where both the people and the elite can exist together, without prejudice, without extreme poverty. This-“

He paused to point a hand to his city, his flourishing crops and his happy traders. There was no sign of war in Cheng Du, no water turned sour, no blood filling the drainage – all was quiet, all was at peace.

“This is the world I create, because I have studied the administration of economy and political affairs for most of my life. I may be no god of war, or tactician…but lest the heavens KILL ME where I stand...I know how to run a government!"

He quietened again; his anger now elapsed as he steadied the breathing that consumed him. No, he was not ever truly angry, at least not to his guests, but with life and its many troubles, “I will kill everyone who stands against my path.”

He smiled weakly, knowing the effect it would have on the scholars and Zhuge Ke, but it did not matter now. If they wanted to see what Liu Yan was they needed to know just how firm his resolve was.

“I will love my citizens as if they were children, my ministers as if they were brothers…but I cannot love and will not forgive those responsible for the chaos that took the lives of many. That…I do know my heart can never do. But am I wronged by thinking such thoughts – tell me, Is the human condition ever truly destined to rule a land without death and keep the peace. We will never all conform to one ideology, and when those rules are broken punishment must ensue. That is the cycle of life, that is just the true reality of existence. We are not all equal as groups, though right now….I am no more superior then any of you before me.”

He smiled as he turned to Zhuge Ke, “We all have a path or a route within this life, a purpose to fulfil. Mine is in understanding the government and administrative affairs. Yours may be similar, or it may not – but if peace can be attained, then surely it cannot be done alone.”

He turned then to the scholars, his eyes lessened now that he had rethought his steps, “Han Zhong was the prime state of the Western Han, a kingdom now long forgotton by the people. I will not burden the city with just war or death, no…I will remind this nation what we once were, and why we can be something yet again. Han Zhong and Cheng Du are both very important cities, and with the triumvirate of Yi within my grasp I can secure steady income and outcome. You do not see, for you preach a language different from mine – I am an author of books, a writer of economic understanding. I do not expect you to see passed my ambitions or my dreams, and sure – what I am going to do soon may be deemed evil. But if the two evils before me is with destruction or following the Han. Then I must destroy, for no peace will ever emerge whilst the Han runs as it does. No, the kingdom needs a change, the country must change – or all we have fought for is in vain, and should my pleas be left unheard, should the repetitive nature of our history repeat for another cycle, then more pain we will consume, and my theory of change will die along with me and my works, for another to adopt when the world is ready for it.”

(sorry if I sort of ended that discussion, but it was hard to reply to it without having those bursts, and those bursts sort of ended my part of the debate lol but now you know the deeper side to Liu Yan heh)

[Zhu Jun]

As the three continued to watch the Governor speak of hypocracy, it was the third to bring the fore to the ground and place the foot against the rat's tail before it could scuttle away. Indeed a fine speech, but one that did not perturb the trio for they had heard much of this substance, within the end results came to nought as their true desires shone through and the people deserted. "You believe anger is our purpose? To create such an emotion you did a fine thing yourself, do not react to our words? Indeed you did, the latter of what you spoke was as if fire had been placed before us." The Crane had become quiet, once again taking the background to listen to the constant discussions that followed the three; seemingly no one could cope with the subjugation of ones desires or words..all taking each other far too seriously to enjoy the things their realm had to offer..

As the Crane squarked a final time, it was a symbol to the visitors that this debat was to and end..the Master Black Horn had made a decision that even the bird could sense, as if they were one entity..that when the bird flew into the skies he too could see what the beast saw. The Goose feather was flicked and the eyes turned to his companions, the diviner had known all of which was happening and enjoyed placing traps for the Governor to feed upon. Even the scholarly tongue knew of such a tactic and became entertained that how easy Liu Yan was placed into discomfort or confusion; a weak mind indeed. However, something there was hiding a difference that the old coot could view upon..gaze and then place a hand upon, to feel the truth and passion this man before them was. No heed was made to the small man beside them, it was not his time to be tested..though it would come to his door, when the nymph upon the moond allowed the rabbit compaion to frockle upon these lands.

"You cattle hearders are all the same, do not feign emotion to gain sympathy for it shall not be placed before you to consume. Our realm can be effected in a large way, even with small actions; such as picking the flower from its roots. If one cannot view such simple things upon the large scale, then you shall simply invest in nothingness." The goose feather was flapped, the diviner's eyes rolled upon this statement..always the one to take things too far, yet they accepted his words for intelligence that if one thought upon became true. Nonetheless, the matter had been placed into the dust and covered by the rain of thought. "Listen carefully Governor Liu, for we do not come here as we seem, to take the form is a simple match in order for the Heavens to place their hand upon earthly matters." Master Black Horn began to comb at the white beard with his jade ornament, it sparkled within the sunlight and it's craftmenship was empeccable. The Crane watched as the many reclined in the seats as they awaited their leads disposition to take flight. "Indeed we have travelled for, for a reason only known by us. Yet, each time we converse as such the bait is devoured but only insults come from the lips." Taking a moment to pause, the breeze delighted the skin as it burshed gently upon his aging face; closing the eyes a deep breath was taken..it was these simple moments that the old coot enjoyed most, one that he would savour, even if it meant ignoring those around him. Comb placed upon his lap once more, the coherence of their words finally took into form that all could sample and enjoy. "You see Governor Liu, we are men who have devouted our lives to the study of our Realm and see its peril take a multitude of forms. Dreams are not what this land needs for the tiem being, for truely what can the dreams of other truely bring to the populace? Mere words without actions behind them, their lays no catalyst to ellovate the situation from this abyss."

The card-fan was taken into hand, it had significance beyond its own understanding and it was a precious trincit to the old coot; one treasured and well looked after. Yet, those within the trio were enjoying the breeze, relcining within their wheeled chairs and simply listening. But even the diviner could not sense the actions of their lead, as the Master Black Horn descended from the cart he seldom came down from for a guest. Wafting a gentle boute of breeze upon the aging skin, he took a closer look upon the visage of the man before him..then to the next, the subbordinate whose wings would take flight soon, not yet but quite soon. "Do you believe we three have become those of our current state? If so, then we shall turn from you to traverse into the skies and watch the distruction of this being." The old coot was a small man, with something surrounding the body with an air that tempted those to come closer; it could be simply the matter of old age..or something far deeper within, the heart knew things the mind could not begin to comprehend. "Indeed we three are known to the Court and have kowtowed within our time, yet this was a mere learning opportunity. Respect we place for our ancestors who created such an Empire that has never lived so long before, falling and rising as the phoenix; however, each time it returns, the wings are weakened..cut upon by those who command it." Turning his gaze to the skies, the card-fan was placed to trail the coulds and to guide the eye to the beings that have fallen; all the spirits that could no longer pass into the Nether Realm and be placed judgement..their bodies simply joining the earth without burial, searching for a way to what they should know as, peace. "Many have fallen for this Empire, but are not given the honour of being placed upon the Wheel of Judgement. Our deities weep for change, it comes upon deaf ears, the masses view certain things but are too affraid to act or speak of such matters; their family's welfare far too important to waste. Do you still not see what must be done, my good man?"

It seemed odd, that from the beginning he seemed a merely senile old goat waffling to an invisible companion that vanished into confusion. Now the Crane takes flight, placing himself upon the Mountains that was his sacred home; there was peace there once..however, he could no longer return to where he wished his body to rest. Solomn features appeared as the card-fan the trailed downwards to the earth below them and glided across the scenary before them. "They do not wish for a resurrection, there is no point in feeding upon the carcus when there is only bone left. We three are beings of the skies and spending our lives in the orders of change; do not place us as that of the one who claims General of Heaven. His ideals were of a good intention, yet the methods fell as the roots were torn apart by disorganisation.. Our Empire must be layed to rest, given the burial it deserves and history shall honours it life. These people need restoration."

Allowing a sigh to leave his lips, the goose feather became still and it seemed the diviner was taken back by the words of his companion; if only the tongue could, however, with the breeze upon his brow..he had fallen into a wonderous sleep. Descending as the former did, Guan approached the company and a grave smile approached upon his expression.. Something indeed troubled the lot, this was the meaning for a test; to view those who were true to a path that could place the medicine upon each wound..to dig out the ulcer, instead of merely covering it with cloth. "I have studied the Heavens each night, the star of the Han had fallen many years ago yet those who take high office turn their backs from such a cry from the skies; how could they give their wealth away to others?" Another sigh, the goose feather flicked as a tear rolled upon the cheek, it was not for the people..but for the Heavens, of course!.. "Spirits travel these lands, making each terrain unsafe for beings when alone; such is the plight of Master Black Horn. This old coot can no longer study the Realm from the Mountains he places as home, for the bandits thrust upon them to ravish them. It is as the Empire has become, to push away the problems without conjuring a solution to his dying land." The two aging men took their fill of words, knowing that this being before them would truely understand by simple thought..even the youth beside him would see the truth they spoke. Their intentions were to bring something, they would not do it themselves but aid those of the generations below to act first; for they would simply fade into the skies once all was done. Through their eyes came the confession, as so many purged of not wishing to take glory when their eyes sparkled with the fame, the diviner and Crane sort nothing but mere harmony to return to their states of mind...not caring if they were forgotten, knowing that all had become a balance once again; far too many beings they had seen die..spirits that had roamed to wail in mercy to them...


[Well this is getting a bit emotionally charged? ;D]

[Jiang Wei]

(Not sure where this is going lol)

Like the never ceasing winds each man stood, time passing before their very eyes, entranced by words beyond comprehension of those passing idly by. Each had spoken in turn, casting their perspectives of many a complex matter, yet a silence had fallen like rain down upon them. Perhaps the time for real debate had passed, Ke watched, simply listening for the sake of politeness if nothing more, as Liu Yan and the three exchanged various verbal bouts. It was interesting for one as young as he, debate was something he enjoyed yet lacked experience in. It had shown him doors from which he had not believed existed, an alternate perspective, but more importantly anothers reaction.

As the sun beat down, the winds swept gently away its negativity, casting a pleasant equilibrium and a calming environment. A decision would have to be made one way or another, little if anything at all lasts, other than the one constant ....that is.... time, something that was perhaps running short during a change meeting on the outskirts of Cheng Du. He had waited patiently, watching the combatants, with a focus comparable to little else... "My Lord, this walk as surprised even myself with the events that have unfolded before us. Like the ever changing sand dunes of the north, the time to act is reaching a head, coming down from the fence upon which we currently precariously balance would be most advisable. It would be better to act now before others come forcefully knocking on our door."

As the sun passed momentarily behind a flimsy looking cloud, the breeze took to the fore, for without the sun it had flourished, destabilizing the climate and titling the balance of power into its favor... "One way or another our actions will influence matters, causing ripples like a stone dropped into water. However it is the size of these ripples that we can determine, perhaps even small enough as to pass under the radar of other lords." He glanced upwards, looking intently at where the sun would emerge from behind its curtain, once more restoring the balance... "Many things can be predicted, such as the light after dark and it is here we must act. Nothing is ever certain, let us be a force for good, restoring the balance that is morally right and just."

Ke realised that Jiang Wei would soon arrive, Tu An ever alongside, a Nanman in exile from his tribe. With the battle of the central plains now concluded, he had received word that his scout had reported back, Jiang Wei could be no more than a few leagues away at present... "Jiang Wei shall join us shortly my Lord." He gave a brief bow, as if to signify his part in the debate had now come to an end.. "I shall follow your orders to the detail, this promise I shall hold close and never deter from. Whatever your action may be you will have our utmost support and confidence in." His eyes caught as if in a spiders webb, entangled with Liu Yan, he felt as if a deep understanding between the pair had been forged.

Swiftly he turned about, wriggling free from the trap, almost grasping at the air, his eyes now set upon the 3 men also present. He gave each a bow, he had been pleased to make the acquaintance of such worldly individuals, their knowledge hidden deep within. Likewise their brilliance kept locked in the depths, surely only to be unveiled in the heat of struggle. Ke could not truly understand nor comprehend their reasoning however this did not deter him in the slightest... "I, Zhuge Ke, am pleased to have met you 3 here today, you have given me the opportunity to debate and discuss issues that some simply cast into the darkness... for that I thank you each." Each played a role, yet were all part of the same act, hiding themselves from much social interaction as if to deffer attention..."The heavens alone must have granted us this meeting."

He let out an uncharacteristic smile, a signature that he was indeed trully satisfied with what had happened in such a confined time and space. It would surely pass like the seasons of old into the darkness, unseen by many, even passers by, only to be remembered by 5 solitary figures, but for now, Zhuge Ke's part had concluded....