To Climb Mountains [OBJ]

[Chunyu Qiong]

It was midday, the sun hanging in the sky. The air was crisp, as it usually was in colder climes. The sky clear save for a few clouds here and there, its calming shade of blue ever present like the sky itself. Mountains stretched east to west on the north side of the road. Their airy peaks dotting the skyline, they seemed imposing, like giants holding their footing firmly. Yet however high they reached into the sky, they could never surpass it. The firmament that indeed held the world together was indomitable, the very ground people tread upon lay itself beneath the sky in humble submission. The clouds that moved to and fro in the sky may have been objects of wonder to some, yet they for all their wonder could never cover the firmament totally. And somehow, for all its dominance, the sky itself never demanded anything from any one, it always was just over-seeing everything. All-pervading, and yet un-intrusive. Even the clouds that dared to block the sky's quiet majesty could not overcome the peaks of the mountains, themselves still in submission to that same firmament. Yet those as mountains might consider themselves superior because of their vantage point, it mattered not, the fact of the matter was that they still could not surpass the firmament.

It was midday, and Chunyu Qiong and his forces were traveling along the road to Xiang Ping. They lay about a few hour's march from the outskirts of the city, his men, despite the marching still resilient. They had passed through the prefecture of Bei Ping, former stronghold of the Gongsun clan, and had received much needed supplies from the conquering armies there led by Yuan Tan, his liege's son. He looked out behind him, his troops moving along the road in columns, their banners waving in the light breeze. Qiong then looked to the front, the light sound of feet marching in step breaking the silence. The light whistle of the wind kissing his ears, he covered his eyes slightly and looked skyward. The sun was hanging there, its effulgence spreading out infinitely in all directions. Qiong wondered, if this effulgence were not here to light up the sky, would any of it exist? Would he be able to tell the difference between this and nothingness?

How many times have I thought this, he wondered, then looking back to the fore he continued his musings, there must be a reason why this thought cannot leave my mind. I must find that reason, or else I shall not have peace no matter how many men I bring to their knees.

It was midday now, and Chunyu Qiong surmised they would reach the outskirts of Xiang Ping by early dusktime.

A few days prior...

"Sir, we've reached the prefecture of Bei Ping! Lord Yuan Tan and the invasion forces have the Gongsun trapped within the city. Should I inform the lord that we've come to reinforce?"

"No corporal, that won't be necessary. We're here on different orders. Go and rejoin the unit, and good work."

"Yes sir!"

Huangpo Gan sat atop his horse at the head of a fresh unit of 2000 troops, a battalion of mixed arms. They had been riding from Nan Pi for Bei Ping. The villagers they had ridden past on the way to this point cheered them on, assuming they went to crush the Gongsun just like the massive army that had come marching through earlier. Gan didn't say otherwise, he simply returned the people's smiles and waves and marshaled his men onward. Now, they had come just within the bounds of the Bei Ping prefecture and hovered at a major crossroads. The the north lay Bei Ping proper, southwards was Nan Pi, to the northeast was Xiang Ping, and to the west was Ji.

He took the time they had now to simply reflect on the past.

Just a few days before beginning their march, Gan had finished his week-long period of leave after graduating a four year program at the Nan Pi war academy. Even though he was not a full-fledged general, the rank of colonel was still nice. Truth be told though, Gan didn't care much for the formalities of the military gentry. He was surprised though, and he was sure his mother would be as well. She probably didn't think he'd ever make to a rank like colonel, hell, she probably thought he was dead. He hadn't seen her since he had left for Nan Pi a year before the coalition against Dong Zhuo had commenced its operations. He wondered if she was still alive, if his eldest brother had been keeping true on his promise to Gan.

His mind flickered like a candle in the wind, switching from one thought to the next, thoughts themselves cascading through his mind like rivulets of water bouncing off the rocks of a waterfall. He picked one out particular;

You'll have a tough time on your hands. The men, haha, they don't follow orders unless one has been recognized in battle. So, you better watch out rookie, or you might have a mutiny on your hands, the words echoed in his skull. It was strange, the hazing of the war academy, all the warnings and jests, none of them turned out to be true. Gan knew he wasn't well known, having only been a foot soldier in Yuan army during the coalition. Afterwards he had then been a lieutenant in Chunyu Qiong's unit during the war for Ye. It was this man whom recommended him to the war academy, yet for all the opportunity showered upon him, Gan was reluctant to go. After some mild coercing involving a few drinks and Qiong's slurring, he decided he would acquiesce to his commander's desire.

Then his mind drifted back, further still. The night of the rebel's rally in Jin Yang. Those words still had shaken Gan to his very core. It wasn't trauma that overcome him in those moments, but an otherworldly bliss, a bliss more real than anything he had ever known. Even food on his plate, the ground before his eyes seemed less real than that feeling. He had spent days, nay years, struggling to reattain that feeling. The closest he had come was during the battle at Ye, when he and his general were staring death in the face. Before them, thousands of Han Fu's angry soldiers stood prepared to deliver a final attack on their position. For days before they had confounded the enemy, even Gan himself was perplexed as to how they managed to survive up to that point.

"General, just look at them! How are we to survive this? It seems impossible!"

"Simple. We hold our ground, and when they exhaust themselves, we strike!"

"That's all?! Forgive me sir, but I think the lack of water in our remaining rations has gotten to you, there's no way!"

"Nonsense! When I was offering prayers for the deceased last night, I heard a voice. It told me not to fear the outcome of this battle. Hold your ground, prove your worth and the rest shall be taken care of!"

And they did as Qiong said, they held their ground, for four hours. It was just when it seemed that they were about to be overtaken that there was a break in the enemy’s resolve. They wavered for a second, and just at that second the clouds that had been blocking the dusky sun broke, and light poured out onto a section of the enemy’s formation. Huangpo Gan could hardly believe his eyes and ears as Chunyu Qiong yelled out to the soldiers, ”Break them now!!”[/color], as he himself charged with what men were around him into the highlighted section of Han Fu’s lines.

And just like that, the enemy formation broke, hurriedly trying plug the gap Qiong had made, their whole formation buckling inward as Qiong’s desperate troops pressed them hard against the entire front. Gan took up his spear and spurred his horse forward, to follow his general. Before a few seconds they were together, the whistle of steel in the air ringing in his ears as they cut down the enemy, soldier by soldier. In those seconds, that same feeling of bliss overtook him, despite his surroundings, it had stripped his fear from him completely. Even if he died, at least it would be without regrets. Things around him just seemed to slow down, he hardly knew with what ferocity all of Qiong’s men were now fighting, the speed of their spears and swords doubled, no doubt enlivened by this daring gambit.

“Damn damn damn! Retreat, all forces retreat,” the opposing general struggled to yell out as Qiong and Gan slashed their way ever closer to him. Suddenly, it happened, ”Why do you run coward! Stand and face me under this sun!”

Qiong’s armor and blade glittered in the dusk sun, their resplendence reflecting the majesty of the self-effulgent orb itself. The enemy general raised his sword to block, it was a feeble attempt, the blade was simply knocked from his hands. Qiong drew his Ji Dao back for a thrust as the enemy general reared his horse in an attempt to turn round and run. And then, it was over, the general fell from his horse, lanced through the chest by the Ji Dao. The colonels of Han Fu’s general screamed out, having borne witness to the death of their commander, ”Retreat, break off and retreat or we will all die here!”

The enemy turned and ran, what was left of them any way. Gan could only look on as Qiong turned his horse to face his men, shivering still with the bliss he had been feeling. The rest flashed from his mind as quickly as it had come.

”Hail! Soldiers of the Yuan, where are you headed?”

It was Chunyu Qiong? Excellent, they had made it to them faster than expected.

”General! Good to see you!”

”Ha ha! Stop with the formalities Gan, you know very well we are on better terms than that!”

The two laughed, smiling, unaware of their men and uncaring of any thoughts they’d have to the contrary. They tapped their blades, Ji Dao to Serpent Spear before shaking hands pulling one another into a brotherly embrace. The age difference was just enough for Qiong to replace Gan’s lost brother, and the mood between them certainly suggested that Gan already had.

”So, what are you, a general yet?”

”No, a colonel sir,” Gan said, a bit of an incredulous look on his face.

The two could only laugh more. The troops merged under the command of the Chunyu Qiong and began along the northeastern road for Xiang Ping.

At the present…

”So sir, what’s the plan?”

”Mmm. I don’t think I’ve really got one as of yet, heh heh. I suppose the men could use a break from all the killing. What say we take a different approach to this?”

”Haha, still the same unconventional commander. Very well, let’s get down to business,” Gan said as the two rode onwards.

It was midday, and Qiong hoped to be at Xiang Ping by dusk.

[Chunyu Qiong]

It was nearing dusk now, the sun had begun to shift lower and lower in the sky. The light coming from it at this angle had now turned the sky an amazing mixture of reds, oranges and pinks, with purplish clouds. Like a painting in its own right. The sun was at their backs now as they rode along the northeastern road into Xiang Ping's outskirts.

About 3500 men strong, the force didn't appear to be anything to mess with. The extra food they had picked up from the invaders in Bei Ping along with the bandits from the Heishan had made things easy on them. The march had gone by quickly. And now, coming so close to a city, the men could hardly contain themselves. The open road was nice, the scenery was always calming. Out and away from the hustle and bustle of civilization, or what the mass claimed was civilization.

All the build up, sometimes Chunyu Qiong wondered if it really did benefit people? That many coming together in a single spot, it seemed like it always brought the worst out in people. Disease ran rampant because of the proximity, the landscape torched for more additions to the city, the population boom because of unrestricted mixing of the sexes, food shortages because of the sheer numbers of people. And worst of all, the greed, the unbridled lust for power. Because people were always so busy with trying to survive, it meant a few could rise to the top because of monopolizing the resources and force the people into submission, playing off their despair.

It always seemed that small villages were the more peaceful. There was no ulterior motive in their simple dealings. All the needless complication, such a waste of energy. Qiong too had known what it was to be desperate, but that was in a different way. Needless to say, it didn't seem fun. You make the wrong move, and that's it. He felt though, because of that he could somewhat relate with the peasantry. Now, if they believed him, that was another story entirely.

"General, it seems we've come upon the outskirts of Xiang Ping," Huangpo Gan said, breaking Qiong's philosophical train of thought.

"Mmmhm. Good, inform the men to keep rank, we won't be engaging in hostility unless the city defenders decide to initiate hostilities," Qiong said, just loudly enough so that the peasants around could hear him.

Probably the only thoughts going through their heads at the moment were something like, "An army?! Are we being invaded?" Regardless of whether or not they took particular notice of the contingent marching through their lands, it lacked the intent of an invasion force. That much was obvious from their posturing. The way the formation was marching it suggested that they weren't expecting a fight, and then the words Qiong spoke would certainly raise some questions in their heads.

"If he's not here to fight, what is he here to do?"

Qiong looked around, taking note of the simultaneous looks of shock and bewilderment on the peasant faces. The villages that lay before Xiang Ping were arranged so that they could be easily defended in the case of a barbarian attack. Qiong knew this, the Xianbei were fierce raiders from Manchuria, the land north of the mountains.

"Hold here," he said holding up a hand, the troops responded and the light sound of feet in step that had accompanied them so far stopped. He continued once the unit came to a complete halt, "Remain ready, but unless we are attacked, make no move."

"General, are you sure this is wise, we are far out from supporting forces," Huangpo Gan whispered to Chunyu Qiong. Qiong only nodded, a simply reply to both parts of Gan's inquiry. An acknowledgement of the lack of support, and also his affirmation in the wisdom of this move.

A peasant approached the Qiong and Gan, sitting atop their horses at the head of the marching force.

"Excuse me sirs," an elderly man said, obviously a village elder, "but why have you come here?" He asked, sheepishly. He looked up and down the columns of troops, a slight pang of fear overcoming him, and it was noticeable, his eyes widening as he ascertained the numbers of fighting men. He then blurted out, "Please, don't attack us! These poor people see enough already, the Xianbei do so much damage and they already live in enough fear, just ple...," the man was cut off as Qiong held up his hand.

"How many families reside here, sir?"

"Uhh," he said, taken a back by Qiong's sudden inquiry. He calmed himself and continued, "Well, we've got about 25 families here, mi'lord."

"You needn't be so formal with us sir, after all, we are unannounced guests. It is we whom should be paying you respects. Colonel!"

"Yes general!"

"Go get some of the money taken from the bandits we routed on the way here, see to it that at least one piece of gold per family is distributed here."

A simple enough order, but Gan didn't remember routing any bandits on the way here. Nonetheless he figured Qiong had a plan. So he rode back to the supply train where the food was kept. He inquired from the sergeant there and found out that a stash of gold had been plucked from bandits in the Heishan. He requisitioned 25 pieces and informed the sergeant that he might be back. He then speedily rode back to the front of the column, a small bag containing 25 gold pieces. He handed it to Qiong who took it in his left hand. Qiong looked toward the village elder, "You may have this as a gift. Make sure it is distributed equally among the people here, the only thing I ask of you, is that you dispatch runners to summon the other village heads."

The old man nodded, taking the bag of gold. He then called for a man, a Yun something. The man who came looked lean, fast, fit. Perfect, it seems this will go quickly.

Qiong asked of the runner before the old man sent him off, "If you could be quick, good sir, I'd rather not be left waiting too long. Sunlight is coming to an end." The runner nodded before taking off, the speed of his gait actually kicking up some dust.

Qiong tarried with his men in the village for about 15 minutes, all them whittling the time with idle conversation. Qiong took the opportunity to introduce himself to the village elder, who was calling the heads of households to receive the gift.

"I am Chunyu Qiong of Nan Pi. A servant of the nobleman Yuan Shao of Ye. I have not come here to fight, though if misfortune comes to us, we are ready to defend ourselves. That said, I do not think it will turn out that way. At the very least, I would hope not to spoil the relative tranquility of this place. Although it seems like you all have a handful with the Xianbei, yes?"

The elders and heads of households nodded in agreement. There was no question of the Xianbei being terrifying, and a general menace. The village elder spoke up, "I am glad to meet you, Chunyu Qiong. And I think I can speak for the rest of the men here when I say that you are indeed a welcome sight. We thank you for your generosity! And yes, the Xianbei are indeed trouble. Things wouldn't be so bad if the city defenders could get out to defend us once in a while. They seem all too content to hold up in the city, using the walls to shield them from both the Xianbei's spears, and our cries for help."

Qiong nodded as the man spoke. It was as he expected, a few rich men hide within their fortress, claiming to have the welfare of the people in mind, and instead exploit their fear. Perhaps this could be resolved without a fight though.

Qiong replied, "My good men," he said, addressing the village gentry assembled, "If the defenders do not defend the people, what business do they have occupying such position? Is it the job of the administrator to see that the people are looked after, to administrate resources to all? From the looks of things, it seems you all have had to do without for a while."

The men nodded, some of them cursing the prefect Zhang Mei. Qiong took the opportunity to capitalize on their discontent, "Hmm, this Zhang Mei, he is the prefect," Qiong asked, getting an almost immediate response. "Then after the other village heads have been summoned here, let us summon him. I shall speak with him, if it pleases all of you." There were nods and 'yeses'.

The runner came back, walking with the other village heads, it seemed not all of them were so old. They came before him and the introductions were made, after which Qiong made a similar inquiry of them, how many families were in each village? 15, 30, 15, 15, 20, and 30. That was good, the bandit treasure would be nearly expended, with perhaps a small bit left over. Though these not be the people the money had been taken from, it seemed at least it would be returned to some people in need. He told the village heads to return and distribute the gold equally among the families there, adding, "Or shall not only I be cross with you for being dishonest men, so shall the people that hold you in such high regard as the heads of their villages!" The village heads departed, save for the old man and a few of the householders that had bothered to stay out with them, the runner too was with them.

"I ask that you go fetch the prefect if possible, tell him I shall meet him on open ground, I've come only to discuss," Qiong said to the runner. The runner nodded and ran off speedily. Qiong smiled and spoke to the old man, "He's quite the energetic one, isn't he?"

"Why yes, my grandson has always been on his feet. Ever since he was a young child, he had been running about the house. He truly is a nice kid."

"Oh, he is your grandson? Well, haha, I suppose either you or his father must have been very spry for him to be so quick."

The old man laughed, he was beginning to like Qiong. [part 1 OBJ over]

At the gates... [part 2 begin]

The runner came up to the guards. They let him in, recognizing him from the times he had carried tax bags around. It seemed they knew of him even in the city, my he was fast! He ran straight for the palace and jogged up the steps. He was stopped by the guards, inquiring about his purpose for approaching the palace, he replied, "There is a man on the outskirts of the city, he is wishing to meet with the prefect. His name is Chunyu Qiong of Nan Pi, he comes to discuss some matters with Zhang Mei. What should I tell him?"

[requesting a mod for the guards/prefect]

[Emperor Feng]

To take a stroll through the Palace grounds was indeed a joyous occasion, the gardeners placed within the care of the Xiangping administration did wonders no other could; something that, oddly, pleased the current Prefect to unknown bounds. A breath was needed, a sniff of the fragrant blossoms that bloomed with such brilliance. "Uh, Xi Shi herself would be so jealous of my blossoms." A delightfuly chuckle, gaining the tones of all queer natured animals and tempered perfumes that the courtesans of the Heavens placed upon their necks to tempt..

This indeed was a sight, for those who gazed upon Zhang He believed to see an oddity to the extreme; however, he was mere childs play.. A thesbian attempting to portray something galled 'grace', such ugliness he brought to the fore. "Do you not know of your superior? I am Zhang MEI, do you not know this word? Mei? It means Beauty.. Thus, that imposter! A heffer with ribbons tied around each trotter." Was always the scolding the employees gained from mentioned the name of 'Zhang He', though it made many laugh to think someone such as he was placed so far from the Capital..to keep away the annoyances; especially one who spent time with Noble harems. Once a noble came to view upon the women he wished to spend the night, along into his gaze came Zhang Mei; dancing with a peach blossom perched behind his ear.. Taken into hand, the flustered Mei could not speak and simply allowed himself to be lead away. Into a chamber of delights they placed, however, the Noble's hand trailed and felt no chest..a youthful angel he had gained! Water seethed from his mouth as the hands were eager to touch underneath the robes, only to fearfully retract when a bulge was felt bellow.

With a scream the youthful Mei was cast from the Palace grounds and sent to be charged, yet even within the Courts his unnatural feminine beauty beguiled all and a simple place within the mountains was given..all believed a frail flower would be trampled upon, yet, loyal vassals had gained strength and defended him. No officials had informed him of the atrocities the Xianbei had occured on the populace within his jurisdiction, for one simple reason; Mei did not wish to hear of them. The people suffered, but could not wish ill will upon him; one glance was all, their hearts fluttered and all was forgiven. "Zhang Guifei, you must come quick, there is a messenger here. A being of the Yuan army has approached our gates; no doubt they wish to place the fate of Gongsun upon your being." It was a title that Mei forced upon his staff to call him, 'Guifei'..the title for the Highest Ranked Imperial Consort.. His feet took flight and rushed to the off, preparing his battle robes in the process; confusion came as an important matter began to clash. "How can I meet the enemy in such ugly silks! Where is the seamstress?! Do I not pay here gold."

"Zhang Guifei, she is the highest paid within your administration. Her father is ill, she must attend his side." Throwing a hairpin in the direction fo the speaker, Mei cluttered about as the high pitched voice became hgher with rage. "What?! My beauty is of more worth than such illness upon a man whose death was assured!" Into hand went some peach coloured robes that had peony embroidery, a delightful headdress was chosen and placed over the bun of jet silken hair; washed each day. Rouge placed upon the lips, a powder that no one was too sure if it held deadly symptons but it made the entire ensemble irresistable! "Now, demand that ill mannered brute be brought before me."

The messenger was sent with the conrete message for Chungyu Qiong to come before Zhang Mei, without warning of this beings character..it would prove to Mei's advantage. When placed into the presence of the Governor, one would gaze upon an elegant figure sat on a raised dais..beauty beyond the Heavens and stature of the beauty Xi Shi. However, without knowledge, such as Chunyu would be, one would believe that this Governor was indeed a youthful maiden; somehow broken from the flock and gained the same rank as a man. Surely this Mei would be of Empress stock?.. Before entering, a warning was given to Chunyu. "Address as Zhang Guifei, it would lead to your benefit." Another pointing to that 'Zhang Mei' was a woman, Imperial Concubine Zhang?.. How the future revelation would pan out, only the Heavens could foresee; with the addition of food to watch all unravel...

[Chunyu Qiong]

Qiong, having received the old man's grandson in the village was relayed the reply of the prefect.

"Sir, the prefect desires to meet you within the palace. And if I may sir, I suggest you be careful, the prefect is known for having a temper."

Qiong looked to his men and then Huangpo Gan, and then back to the assembled gentry, "A temper eh? Well, ha ha. I guess a drink or three might calm him down, eh?"

The gentry could only scratch their heads, while Gan struggled to stifle a chuckle. He knew of Qiong's drinking prowess. If properly paced and fed before hand, he could out drink an ox, which is to say a very large man. Rumor had it that even Zhang Fei, a man renowned for his drinking ability failed to match up to Qiong. Gan could only hope that Qiong would control himself, the 'a drink or three' was not haphazardly said by Qiong. It was an inside joke the two had formed after celebrating the victory at Ye. Qiong had had a glass of wine and took it all in a gulp. After waiting about five minutes he told the serving girl, "Ma'am, we're gonna need about three drinks over here," the only thing was, Qiong was the only one at the table at that time. Gan hadn't even been invited to come sit with Qiong yet, he had been out back, looking at the sky. Of course, once Gan was spotted, the rest became history, and one hell of a night too! That was always Qiong's problem, he'd either drink too fast, or too much on an empty stomach. Sometimes both, which, needless to say usually made things end worse than they began.

Qiong set out for the city. Upon reaching the gates he was admitted into the city and led to the palace. There he left his horse in the stables there and continued on foot into the city. As he began to enter the throne room he was given a stern warning, by a guard whose face showed sympathy, concern, and the kind of fatigue only mindless drudgery could produce. Qiong was a little horrified at seeing his face, Yeesh! What the hell does this man do to the people!? He only raised an eyebrow at the warning though, the only visible sign of his acknowledgement, "Address as Zhang Guifei, it would lead to your benefit."

Zhang Guifei...? Wait a second, it's a woman? There's some malarky afoot he, Qiong's train of thought was abruptly halted as he beheld the prefect. Wow, that was a surprise, it really did look like a woman.

Qiong knelt on one knee, and made the traditional salute of clasping ones fist in his opposite hand, bowing his head slightly. He then addressed the prefect, eager to ascertain this person's lay. Truth be told, he didn't know if it really was a woman, or just a really effeminate man, "Honorable Zhang Guifei, prefect of Xiang Ping. I am Chunyu Qiong of Nan Pi. I come on behalf of my lord Yuan Shao of Ye. I come with a request, will you hear it?" He figured he ought to tread carefully, not wishing to get right to it at this time, he still kept in the runner's warning in mind.

[Emperor Feng]

Snap! A fan was produced and opened to reveal a sumptuous display of art upon the face; a youthful maiden being ambraced by a gentlemen of questionable state and age. A light chuckle escaped the rouged lips, the jewel like eyes gazing upon the bowing figure of Chunyu; a man of the Yuan noble? Oh yes, recently proclaimed Emperor, such a daring move Mei thought. However, there was something itching in the back of his mind..was that Noble trying to gain Xiangping with a simply being? Surely not! Though the flower was frail, one must always be aware of the throns upon the stem. "Tread upon my lands with care Master Chunyu, I know of the one you bow to; do not take me as vulnerable for I do not wish to place the thorn within you." It was a daring threat for someone who did not truely know the reason for Chunyu's presence, yet it set the confidence within the mood.

Rising from the dais, a serving maid approached and placed a veil round Zhang Mei's visage; only allowing the eyes to be viewed. From this angel, indeed a woman was before Chunyu; the robes were of a woman's stock, the hair and headdress found upon the consorts of Emperor's..then, the swift fan movements. A dancer whose father had just one heir, the dainty girl who was now advancing upon the guest. "Rise young Master, I shall not converse with one upon the floor..unless you desire for me to join you?" A light chuckle and a teasing wink, the hazel eyes glistened and tempted Chunyu closer..the complexion was without flaw, the voice so delicate that the clouds seemed harsh in comparison. No one flinched at a remarck from their Prefect, even when knowing the truth..no doubt a usual pass time to see?.. In hand came a cup of wine, Mei herself placed it onto Chunyu's hands; so soft! The sweet scent of the jasmine perfume and the intoxicating aroma of wine, the scene would have been celestial within a garden setting. "So finally see a man of such stature, do forgive me for such a fluster; the heart cannot deny such masculinity..within these walls, such as me can become lonely from the strong embrace; please, stay awhile." These words were whispered, only Chunyu Qiong could hear..Mei desired the man in the presence, it was a serving that could not come often; the Moon maiden in human form wishing to spend a night..to feel the touch of a strength against the lonely softness...

The eyes spoke more than the whisper, moving away Mei too took a cup into hand and delicately sipped; placing the cup underneath the veil; ahh, a young maiden of impeccable training! "Tell me Master Chunyu, what do you request of me?" An eyebrow raised, another temptation for the guest; the eyes wishing his embrace to tear the headdress and taint the purity within..

[Chunyu Qiong]

Qiong was certainly surprised, to say the least. His left eyebrow remained raised the entire time the man-woman spoke. Sure, it, whatever it was, looked the part. But he still had a hard time believing a woman this side of the Empress Dowager would be in any sort of political seat. And even then, Xiang Ping? Sure, it was a border city and needed to defend against threats from Manchuria, but why put an Emperor's consort in charge of the defenses, that was one bit that was not adding up.

There's a catch here... I'm sure of it. Best to play along, the wily drunkard thought to himself. He may be known locally for getting hammered, but that surely wasn't the case here. He'd hardly traveled the breadth of Youzhou, so it was improbable at best that people knew of him without him having to introduce himself. Amongst the Yuan, sure, he had something of a reputation, but that was because of an extraordinary occurrence.

Then, the pretty one, as Qiong had affectionately dubbed his dubious new acquaintance, got up off the dais and gave him a cup of wine. He raised both eyebrows now, a look of surprise on his face. Thank the good Lord of Heaven they had snagged food on their way through Bei Ping, compliments of Shen Pei's supply lines. He smiled back, and took a sip. Being a drunkard by night and a general by day, he had a taste for wine. It seemed, clean, yeah that was the word. He could taste no immediate irregularities. He then swished and swallowed. He had to be wary, especially now. What with this androgynous person offering him drinks and such. Sounded like a rape was about to commence, and then it whispered into his ears. He drew back slightly, but gave a sheepish smile in response.

He righted himself, standing now he replied, "Well, honorable Zhang Guifei," preferring to play it safe with a non gender-specific address, and the one he was recommended to use. "I was wishing to discuss what I've to say in private, if it is not an inconvenience for your lordship that is."

He'd really, really have to play it safe now, or he might end up with a bit more than just the city.

[Emperor Feng]

"Such an advance upon our Guifei, do not presume you have such an honour." An official stepped forward to reprimand Chunyu, they sensed what he wished to do and refused their vulnerable Prefect to kowtow in private to a simpleton; eyes glazed at the man..guards poised ready for any order. Rising from the dais, a gentile sigh left Zhang's lips as the fan placed a soft draft upon himself. "Do not act so rash Minister Gong, he has not presented threats before us yet; place credit upon him and bring him to my chambers. If there is any trouble within, place yourself before my doors to aid." The official did not object, an expression who truely wished to strike at the General..but, the order was placed and his loyalty could not wavor it. Shrugging the matter off, the Minister pointed to the guards behind Chunyu to follow them and then guard the doors; he would be residing close to act if needed.

"Do forgive my employ, he is quite protect over Xiangping and myself; his homeland and a close friend." Travelling down a corridor the Prefect chuckled jokingly at the actions of the Minister, one that seemed a regular occurance to Zhang. As they walked, it was still ambiguous to the true gender of the Mei, for the walk was elegant yet quick; as if each foot contently hopped from one cloud to another. The guards that flanked Chunyu were on their best guard, alert for any eventuality but did as orderd; remaining outside the room once the two had entered. Only two serving maids accompanied Zhang within his personal quarters to serve the tea and any other wish they had.

The room was ellaborately decorated, to the standards of an Imperial Cooncubine..if such a title was true, then Zhang had acted in a manor that either angered the Emperor or simply a victim of the Empress' jealousy. Though, one who knew of Emperess Fu would understand that she was not a jealousy being, too gentile and kind hearted; acting as sister to all those who the Emperor favoured..especially the Consort Dong. Silks drapped the walls in vibrant colours of red, green and gold; paintings hung of legends..Xi Shi the main theme of all. Poems too adorned the walls and literary scripts of philosophical legends. Tea was brought to a small table that looked out upon the mountains to the North, two soft mats placed at either side; Zhang happily lounged upon it and took a sip from the tea. "Do not play me naive or ignorent Master Chunyu, I know of your tricks and it shall not woo me." The eyes became sharp, intelligence shone from beneath and cunning spirit..the veil was removed, if a close look one would notice the subtle masculine traits of the jawline..lip shape and then, the hands.. A simple rouse to place the guest in an insecure position, to draw them into something they did not know. "Your Lord has already proclaimed Emperor, does that not suit his needs? Does he wield such greed he is not satisfied with what the Heavens have already tolerated to give him?" A sharp tongue too, showing that Mei was not one to lay down willingly; a fight would ensue...the thorns were partially shown and gestured that if one cared to continue then it shall be the poison..

[Chunyu Qiong]

A minister stepped forward to confront Qiong, and all he could do was look on submissively as the situation unfolded. Fortunately for him the prefect granted his request to discuss in private the matters Qiong had to bring forth. He was taken by two guards, walking behind the prefect, whom had the gait of a man. This, he could tell for sure. The hips did not sway naturally like a woman's did whilst walking. The pace also was brisk. If it were a woman and trying to seduce him, the pace would have been different, if it were a 'she', 'she' would have been trying to show off more.

"Oh, it is no problem. It simply shows he's adamant about his job," Qiong replied, and then thinking to himself, Which says more than you show about yours, remembering the look of abject fear that swept over the old man's face and how he had told of the aloofness of the defenders.

He continued his musing while they covered the corridor, I knew there was something fishy here. Hmm, we'll see where this goes. I know Gan can bring this city to its knees if I am to die here, so I might as well get down to business, Qiong thought to himself as they neared the quarters of the prefect itself.

It was decorated lavishly, perhaps too lavishly. To be truthful, Qiong found it a bit gaudy. The prefect stepped over to a table and took a seat at a mat, two, quite prettier than usual, serving maids stood at the ready. Xi Shi hung on the wall, amongst other silken tapestries and scrolls. Qiong surmised this man to be the intellectual type, but with an unnatural obsession on beauty.

He's a regular Zhang He, or is Zhang He a regular Zhang Mei? Ha ha ha!

He grinned for a split second before taking his seat, the grin shown only to the picture of Xi Shi. Time would tell who possessed the more beautiful argument.

"Do not play me naive or ignorant Master Chunyu. I know of your tricks and it shall not woo me," Mei said as Qiong took his seat before the prefect. Then the veil was lifted, and Qiong's suspicions were confirmed, he raised an eyebrow, to make it appear as though he were totally caught off guard, all the while thinking, I knew it! I knew it, I knew it! Ha ha ha, Qiong, you crafty fox you...

Then the prefect made some stereotypical remark about greed. Well, if Mei didn't know greed, Qiong would be a monkey's uncle, literally.

He offered a reply, doing his best to keep his tone even, level, and above all, not threatening. He knew he could knock this man out with a punch, toss him from the balcony and then run out claiming he had been tricked into an intimate encounter, with more than enough time to get to his horse and back out to his soldiers. However, that would be truly a cop out in this situation, Yuan Shao didn't need to fight so many wars, after all, what would have been the point of asking Gan if he wanted to do things differently this time around and rest the men?

"I see, that was a very clever ruse, you had almost fooled me there, Zhang Guifei. I am glad to see you are apt to indulge in the intellectual side of life, quite a collection you have. And as for Yuan Shao, surely, being as learned a man as you are, you're familiar with the concept of the Mandate of Heaven, yes?"

[Emperor Feng]

Listening to Chunyu's words, the Prefect took a sip of the warm tea and the mused on the idea of the Mandate of Heaven; glancing to the scriptures upon the wall. "Ahh, indeed I am well aware of such an item. One that was lost within the skirmish against Master Dong. Rumours be that it resides within the South, not only this. But your Lord's brother is the owner." A smile crept upon Mei's expression as the eyes trailed back to Chunyu, already he could tell that he would spout some lies that indeed it was in his possession. Though far from the Imperial Court, Zhang Mei was not naive and knew quite of the subject..hence why his placement being Xiangping; he had gained much interest in the whereabouts of this item, in hopes to gain it for himself. However, accusations from higher offices was his downfall and instead of causing more chaos within the Capital, Li Jue and Guo Si sought him to this city of the Mountains..

"Do not say Master Chunyu, that it is your Lord Yuan that has the Mandate of Heaven in his posession?" A mocking chukle escaped his lips, it was an angle that Zhang would not be threatened from..he had studied the Mandate for many years and was one who could tell where it was; thus this infuriating position in the middle of nowhere. "Do not humour me Chunyu, do you know why I am the Governor of Xiangping? No, I do not think you do, for why should you place research of myself? I am of no accord or important, such a fool of an envoy." Rising from the mat, Zhang approached the paintings and scriptures on the opposite wall; the fan used to gesture to them. "I am one who enjoys the studies, which came to a halt when I came upon scriptures of this seal; the Mandate of Heaven. Day and Night I became a scholar with expertise of such an item, to cherish such a legacy and tradition..would surely place it before my embrace. I know that your Liege does not have it, for I have scouts searching for it..you see, that is why I am here in Xiangping. I came too close to it, I knew where it was hidden and who I needed to eradicate to gain it; but, my eternal mistake.. I did not expect such was within the hands of a high office and thus, I was thrust to this post away from the Empire." A sigh left his lips as he turned to look down at Chunyu Qiong...

It seemed that Zhang too had annoyances towards the Empire, but yet he was remaining loyal; for he knew, that one day..perhaps..the Heavens would shine upon him once again and give him what he desired. "So, as you see, such a tale would not work Master Chunyu. Be to the point, Yuan Shao wishes to take the whole of Hebei within his grasp; does he not? And I am a mere obstacle?"

[Chunyu Qiong]

Well Qiong was surprised. Perhaps this man did know of the Mandate, but only of the physical presence of a scroll. The true mandate as it were was an idea, one which has long been known to the noble clans of the imperial bureaucracy. The idea that he whom Heaven truly favored, was the one to conquer and rule the empire and thus disperse the benediction of Heaven unto everyman under the sun. Clearly, Zhang Mei's study was not well enough. Qiong himself had never even gotten close to a physical copy, he had however, found much reference to it in a scroll Yuan Shao kept, entitled "The Way of Peace" authored by the late Zhang Jue of Yellow Scarf fame. Many would not touch it, for it bore a certain social stigma being associated with the rebellion, but the text itself was beautiful, it truly proclaimed the message of Heaven. He would reveal this to Zhang Mei in time, but for the present, he would need to respond.

Qiong, still seated, looked up at Zhang Mei, showing he was unafraid of the outburst, but still spoke calmly, "Mi'lord, I can tell from your tales that indeed you have been wronged to have been placed here. A man of your stature does indeed belong in a place befitting more scholarly avenues. True it be that you are governor of Xiangping, that I am not disputing. But, even you must admit that you do not wish to be here. And certainly, I had no pretension of claiming my lord possessed a physical copy of the Mandate of Heaven. However, I am sure you must be familiar with the concept of the mandate, yes? A physical scroll does nothing but record the idea that is the basis of the writing. It is the idea that counts, and so I ask you, are you familiar with the idea?"

He placed emphasis on the word concept, hoping to pique the man's interest, as he had admittedly spilled to Qiong that he had never even touched the Mandate of Heaven.

[Emperor Feng]

"...So far away my office is from the Imperial Court..." Chunyu was indeed correct upon that matter, a matter than usually Zhang would not allow perturb him in such a way. Glancing back over the scriptures, a sigh escaped his lips as the fan dropped to the floor..it broke on impact, the delicate cascading frame made from a thin wood that placed against force; was weak. A serene symbol of how the Prefect felt about being placed so far from home. "I am a native of the Imperial City, I did not mean to be beguiled by the aura of the Mandate; to my ancestors I swore true..but, such a future no one can see."

Another sigh, the heart ached for home..or deeply, a release from the corruption he allowed himself to be consumed by; it devoured him, day by day. The viel of this new persona, a simply act as a shield against the withering soul within. "Do not judge me as a fool, nor weak." Staggering back, it was what continuously went through his mind..the legacy he would leave..as the weak rose that fell for the precious traditions and power a simple scroll had over beings; to have it in his possession, many would bow and kowtow to him..placing him within his ancestors, seeing no shame or disgrace; yet now?.. "You are correct Master Chunyu, I do not wish to be here in Xiangping. Nor, do I wish to have read the stories of that scroll.."

Approaching the mat, the body of Zhang simply fell to the floor..without a heavy thump; as if a petal floating from side-to-side to the ground. The cherry blossom of the summer, bowing to the harsness of autmun; shedding all its beauty. Something that was happening before Chunyu; the truth behind the Prefect withering and cascading into an abyss he did not know how to escape. "Yet, I cannot yield to you Master Chunyu. I am filial to my ancestors and shall not turn upon the entity that my parents served without question." Another sigh, the serving girl approached the Prefect to pour the tea; a hand was raised for her to halt. No one knew that this very maid was infact a close friend to Zhang, she knew him dearly after serving many years under him. The mind was set and she could read the eyes that fell into confusion and suffering. "..As you wish.." The voice was broken and scuttling away to the back room, the other serving girl was ordered to leave the chamber.

"Master Chunyu, will you give me a promise to the plan I place before you? Upon the ancestors of yourself and the Lord Yuan you must swear, that you shall agree to my words.." Another sigh, another sip of the small amount of tea that was left in the cup; breathing slowly Zhang was calm..but there was something unsettling in his mannerisms now..

[Chunyu Qiong]

Again the man made remarks about Qiong thinking him weak and foolish. Misguided, yes, Qiong thought so. But a weak man would have just killed himself by now, and a foolish man would have declined to even meet with Qiong. Yet he still clung to the sinking ship of the Han. Truly, based upon the message of Heaven, once the Lord of Heaven has withdrawn his favors from the ruling family there is no more legitimate reason to kowtow to them, no more reason to even speak of their greatness. And yet, people still stood by them, despite ample evidence that Heaven had in fact withdrawn its favor. Famine, disaster, plague, these were the indicators. Under competent administration, the land would produce food stuffs in abundance. Under sane administration, the intense anguish of the society would not be manifested as mass outbreaks of disease. Under pious administration, Heaven would not see fit to send disaster to punish the wayward. And then, there was the rebellion. What to speak of it? Lead by a religious man, the largest peasant uprising in recent history, who knows, perhaps in all time, had slaughtered the supposedly righteous imperial defenders. Therefore, under righteous administration, there would be no rebellion. Even the usurpation of the imperial mandate by Dong Zhuo, Li Jue and Guo Si, and also the pathetic eunuchs was proof that Heaven had withdrawn its favor of the Han. For under resolute administration, usurpation did not occur.

Still though, it seemed Zhang Mei could not understand that he was released from serving such corrupt men by dint of the events Heaven had set into motion. He could not see past the worship of his ancestors. Qiong respected his ancestors, he did not worship them though, as was said in The Way of Peace, only the Lord of Heaven need be worshiped, and so has Qiong done since reading the scroll.

Truth be told, Qiong felt the entire rebellion was more of a warning than a final shot, seeing as how it fell apart once their leader, Zhang Jue succumbed to illness in old age.

Now, the prefect wished to place a plan before Qiong, and begged of him a promise. He was wary, yet he knew if he did not acquiesce, negotiations would likely come to a complete halt. Still though, he kept himself steeled, he shifted a bit in his seat, making ready to kick the table up if the prefect tried anything hostile. To Zhang Mei, it would only seem as if Qiong were uncomfortable sitting in any one position for a time.

He then spoke, "Yes, Zhang Guifei, I swear upon my ancestors, though I cannot say the same for my liege's, for his ancestors are not my own. What is it you're planning?"

[Emperor Feng]

There was no matter to what Chunyu promised or not, simply to find out what Zhang had planned for himself and the city of Xiangping; everything was placed into motion and not even the strength of the General could fend himself against it. "It is something that shall allow this situation to find its own fate, whether it be for the halls of old or the throne of new." Rising from the mat, slowly the Prefect guided his way over to Chunyu and sat directly infront of him; slowly his head came close, as if to whisper into his ear. "Take care, for these Mountains produce the most beautiful blossoms." Taking a deep breath, Zhang placed his lips upon the man's cheek, as if to say good bye; the kiss of death?.. However, the Prefect would not allow Chunyu to react in time, he could not delay the plans he had set in stone.

The serving girl approached from the back with a small jug that had a peach blossom painted upon it, delicately done with precision of the Heavens. "Thank you, pour for only myself; I shall salute our resident." 'Resident'? Such an odd term to refer to a visitor as the General, however, it was a word specifically used to place the plan within his mind..to explore the possibilities behind the meaning of a simple word. A tear fell from the maid's jewel-like eyes as the liquid was poured, another pointing to the inevitable; but why? Cup into hand, Zhang extended the cup infront of him to toast Chunyu Qiong; the smell of the liquid lifted by the gentle breeze of the open window that was near by..looking upon the Mountains and a delightful orchard. "As a remeberence of one frail being, respect the blossoms to which a spirit shall forever surround." Upon its own it would be seen such waffle and incoherent nonsence, yet, another thought on the matter revealed many. The scent from the cup when passing the nostrels? One that would even have a demon coil in disgust, it revealed more and more; it wasn't the finest wine to toast the health of the guest, but one to destroy that of the drinker... Poison!..

It was too late for Chunyu to act in defence, the liquid had been consumed..a liquid that would soon take hold of the entire body and place it to the great wheel for judgement; however, the words hung within the air. "As a remeberence of one frail being, respect the blossoms to which a spirit shall forever surround." From the now darkening lips, stained by the poisoned liquid, purged these words; over and over again. The maid went to her knees, in attempts to control the tears she knew would soon flow. "Meimei, please, take care of our Governor; do not allow him to forget to tend to the blossoms.." Another revelation for the General, one that may not have been important but one of significance; that the maid was not only a close friend..but Zhang's younger sister, placed in his service by naming her a mere servant. It seemed that even she knew of the plan, long before this day had come. "Such a day this heart has seen, many dreams of a being with a yellow banner; to submit and save many..than to fight and cuse the death of many. Governor Chunyu, when you hear the winds carry the songs of sorrow, take the scent of blossoms to heart and send thanks to the Heavens."

A cough, the poison was taking its tole upon his being, a stumble back and wince of pain; delicately done nonetheless, as if a maiden gained chest pains. The plead was set and the plan fulfilled, Chunyu had no option..it was something quite clever, yet indeed feeble to take ones life. To place ones life into poison, but, Zhang had planned the legitamacy of passing the throne to the Yellow Bannered one through a witness; the Prefect's sister. All close to Zhang knew of her true identity and would yield to her words... Stumbling to the fore, Zhang Mei exited the private quarters via a small hatch close to the window; a secret door so he could venture into the Orchards whenever he wished. One would naturally gaze out to the figure, who regularly winced and halted trying to deal with the poison draining the life from each limb..each organ. "To be one with the Peach Blossoms, a life of peace awaits; to return to this land in another form.." Underneath the largest Peach Blossom tree Zhang finally collapsed to, not having the strength to pull himself to sit underneath. It was a secluded part just for the Governor to enjoy, where the body would come to no harm. Yet, no words spoken, this last resting place of the former Governor was clear to all; to be buried under this Blossom and for it to be tended each day..

A gentle breeze picked up, shaking the petals to cascade down upon the now lifeless body of Zhang Mei; a fitting end for someone who emersed themselves within the beauty life had to offer. One who could not truely administrate a city, but drew people in with the charisma of the Heavens. Knowing where his true position was, he did not kowtow nor surrender..but simply wished to fade from this existance that he allowed to corrupt his being with the tales of power...

---

REWARDS

+ The City of Xiangping, through Diplomacy




[Geno, you can reply to this post Chunyu's reaction, just put the Rewards up now to save time]

[Chunyu Qiong]

[Thanks Gong, that was a pretty poetic end. True to his character *salute*]

What a strange turn of events. It seemed the beautiful Zhang Mei had been suffering intense anguish this entire time, all from coming too close to the power the Mandate had to offer. It was unfortunate, but those who viewed the Mandate as nothing more than a means to an end would suffer similar fates in due time. Those who respected not the power of Heaven all suffered invariably. In one form or another, it didn't matter, the suffering was there.

Mei spoke heavily of respecting the blossoms, as a form of remembrance for a frail being. Chunyu Qiong was a bit puzzled at this, and made to speak, but was cut off as Zhang Mei called his serving girl to pour him a cup of tea from a special jug. Zhang Mei raised the cup to Qiong, though he didn't realize it immediately, it would be Zhang Mei's last toast for a long while. Zhang Mei then got up and began to pace out side, his sister crying.

It was poison. Such an end, but perhaps it was fitting that he succumb to the poison that had been crushing his soul this whole time. He'd be back though, he could be assured of it. Self-sacrifice was something the Lord of Heaven smiled upon.

Qiong got up and followed the prefect out into the orchard, bidding his sister come along with him. He beheld the man collapsing under the largest tree in the orchard. It seemed obvious from his last words what his wish was. But before Qiong would get to burying the corpse, he would at least lie it aright, so that Mei's spirit would at least feel dignified in passing. He knelt down by the body and set it straight at the trunk of the tree, clasping the hands together and closing the eyes.

He then sat down and began to offer the Daoist prayers for the passing of the dead that he had read in The Way of Peace. When he finished, he spoke to Zhang Mei's sister.

"You are witness to his passing, please inform his retainers of what has happened. For now, I take my leave to rally my soldiers and move into the town. You have my word that this orchard, in its entirety will survive up until its appointed time to end."

With that, he got up and began to walk out. Luckily he found a way out of the orchard that lead around the main assembly building for the palace. He came upon his horse in the stables, mounted it and rode out to Huangpo Gan who was still in the village with the old man.

The other householders had all retired for the evening, but the old man, his grandson and Gan were still bantering. Qiong came up on them all laughing, it seemed as though the grandson had told a good joke. The men too had relaxed and set up a perimeter around the town. Once Huangpo Gan caught sight of Chunyu Qiong he saluted, "General! I hope negotiations went well?"

Qiong replied half-heartedly, a bit dejected from the recent happenings, "Indeed so, Zhang Mei has yielded the city," deciding not to mention the suicide, lest he tarnish Zhang Mei's honor.

A single thought stirred in Qiong's head, Though we dare to best mountains in pursuit of Heaven's favor, we must always remember to be more humble than blades of grass, more tolerant than the trees.