Ch.2: Friends Old & New
Disclaimer: I do not own anything from the Koihime Musou series or any other ideas that I might have obtained my ideas from…Except for my OC. Note that asterisk stars (*) at the end of the chapter, refers to facts that can help clarify the terms.
Spring, 418 I.C (Imperial Calendar)
Beiping, You Province...
In the main office of the Beiping City's Grand Hall, a girl, with red hair styled in a ponytail wearing a red attire, blue skirt, and red boots, was surveying various documents that have been submitted to her by the local magistrates and administrators throughout her province. She had only become governor of the province recently and was already getting flooded with work by many attendants reporting numerous issues with the province. Never before has she been so busy but the most irritating problem now were the bandits that had been running rampant in her lands. With everything that has been going on she was not far from asking help. And it just so happens that she got a hold of an old friend that she was dying to reunite.
"Kousonsan-sama." An attendant entered the room.
"What is it?" The girl, identified as Kousonsan, responded.
"The caravan has arrived."
"He's here." Kousonsan's expression brightened at the sound of that. Perhaps the first good news since forever, "Have him escorted to the courtyard. I have something to ask of him."
"Yes, milady."
As the attendant left, Kousonsan stood with a smile on her face, "It's been so long."
Later...
Kiriya's POV
I was sitting at a table in a gazebo in the courtyard of the mansion of Beiping City. After successfully crushing the bandits that tried to rob them, they proceeded to the city without further delay. Upon arrival, my mother and I presented the supplies we brought for the governor. But right after that, I was summoned by her to discuss something of great importance. Seeing that it is urgent I didn't hesitate to comply and left my mother to do his normal merchant business while I was escorted to the mansion courtyard.
"Kiriya!"
A sudden voice calls out as I glanced over and see an ever-familiar face of an old friend. In an instant, she leaps onto me in an embrace and got me spinning a few circles.
"Pairen." I grin, returning the hug as I spin us around in to bleed off the momentum. "How long has it been?"
"Three years, Kiriya." Kousonsan speaks warmly, letting me go as she looked into my eyes. "Three years! By the Heavens, look at you!"
"Look at me? Look at you." I gesture, "The new governor of You Province! You've been climbing up the ladder, haven't you?"
"W-Well..." Kousonsan scratches her head. "It's been a bit rough so..."
Kousonsan was an old friend of mine. Strange as it sounds. I didn't think I would meet an individual from the Three Kingdoms lore. What shocked me the most was that Kousonsan was a girl. A part of me was still getting used to that fact. I kind of made me wonder if that was the case for every other icons.
Anyway, I heard she had earned a place in the You Provincial authorities and became a cavalry officer. However, things have not been good for the province as its governor was both lazy and avaricious. It was said that the late governor was killed by bandits. Kousonsan was the only person who could take up the job and became You Province's new governor, which was only recently.
"Ahem." A huff was heard as I glance over and see another woman standing not far behind her. She wore white attire and had neck-length, powder blue hair with a thin hip-length ponytail. "Hakukei-dono. I believe we have business to take care off."
"A-Ah right. Of course." Kousonsan blushed.
'This woman...' I thought.
The blue-haired woman took a glance at me before taking her seat as I did the same.
"You wanted to discuss something, Pairen?" I asked.
"Yes, but not quite yet. We are still waiting for two more individuals before we can begin the meeting."
"Two?"
"Kousonsan-sama." A guard called out from the entrance of the courtyard, "Your visitors have arrived."
"Good, bring them in." Kousonsan nodded.
I watched as two girls entered the courtyard. One had black hair, carrying a guandao, while the other had short red hair, carrying a spear with a tip shaped like a serpent's tongue. For a moment, I was wondering who they were but upon recollecting myself, a glimpse of realization struck me as I my eyes widen in sheer awe.
"Are those two...?" I mumbled quietly.
The girl carrying the guandao possessed a unique aura in her. She had the air of a charismatic and powerful individual. The other girl, despite her size, has a ferocious but also cheeky air. As they placed their weapons down to the side, they entered the gazebo.
"Welcome." Kousonsan said, "Now that we are all here. Let us begin. Have a seat everyone."
With that, everyone did. But before Kousonsan could begin, I noticed the black-haired girl staring at me for a few seconds.
Finally, Kousonsan begins to speak, "Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Kousonsan, my courtesy name is Hakukei, and I am the governor of You Province."
Kousonsan then looked to the other girl. "This person here is a traveling warrior just like you. She is staying here as an ancillary general."
The blue-haired woman then spoke up. "My name is Chou'un. My courtesy name is Shiryuu. It's a pleasure to meet you."
'Chou'un?' My eyes widen. 'The Dragon of Changshan?'
"Thank you for coming on such short notice." Kousonsan thanked before looking at Kan'u and Chouhi. "And you two are?"
"My name is Kan'u. My courtesy name is Unchou. And this person here is–"
"Rinrin's name is Chouhi, Chou Yokutoku~!"
"Rinrin! Not so loud!?"
My eyes widen even more, 'Kan'u and Chouhi!? So it IS them...'
"Kan'u-dono." Chou'un grins. "You must be quite proud to have such a big child, considering your age."
"Child?" It took a moment before Kan'u realized Chou'un was referring to Chouhi as she quickly started waving her hands in denial. "Y-You have got the wrong idea! Rinrin isn't my daughter!"
"A-Ah well, let's leave that topic at that." Kousonsan said before gesturing me to introduce myself.
I looked at the two newcomers and bowed, "My name is Kyoujin, a traveling swordsman. It is a pleasure to meet you Kan'u-san, Chouhi-san."
"Oh, no. The pleasure is mine." Kan'u nodded with a smile.
"It's nice to meet you, Onii-chan~!"
Onii-chan?
As I smiled, I looked away from the two back to Kousonsan and begin addressing to her a more formal tone.
"Kousonsan-dono, you sent for us of something important, did you not?"
"Hai." Kousonsan nodded. "I have a favor ask of you…Kan'u-dono and Chouhi-dono as well."
We paid heed to her as she continued. "As the new governor of one of the major provinces, my concern for the country exceeds anyone else's. Enshou of Ji Province, Sonsaku of Jiangdong, and Sousou of Yan Province who has been growing prominent in the Imperial Capital lately...They all hold ambition to rule this whole country and are on the constant lookout for new talent. The old Imperial Family of the Han has lost a great amount of power over the recent century. To help me rectify the chaos in this land, please lend me your power."
Listening to her speak, it was hard to disagree. Since the last few decades, it is said that the court eunuchs grew more involved in the affairs of the Imperial Court, causing the influence of the Han Emperors to grow increasingly ineffective in managing the empire. As the central government weakens, the local authorities became lax and gluttonous, giving way to the rise of bandits. But the worse part of it is that, the local lords are able to rule their own lands semi-autonomously, monopolize personal wealth, and expand their own military power with impunity. It doesn't take a genius to know that the Han Dynasty is on a one-way ticket to utter collapse. The very thought of it made my stomach turn, especially since my mother and I bore witness to it during our travels.
"Hakukei-dono..." Chou'un spoke up. "I'm sorry to interrupt, but aren't you being a bit too hasty?"
"What do you mean?" Kousonsan asked as Chou'un then looks at Kan'u and me for a moment before continuing.
"During my journey, I've also heard about the black-haired bandit hunter...But rumors are apt to be exaggerated."
Kan'u looked like her heart took a hit while I just glanced with a hint of sympathy.
Chou'un then continues. "Therefore, wouldn't it be better to hire Kan'u-dono and Kyoujin-dono after ascertaining their true strength?"
"Hm, I see." Kousonsan nods. "But, is it really necessary for Kir-I mean Kyoujin-dono? I have told you about him, didn't I?"
That caught my attention as I glanced at Chou'un.
"That you have, Hakukei-dono. You have told me that Kyoujin-dono here is an accomplished warrior himself but I wish to see his strength with my own eyes." Chou'un smiles at me.
"Sigh...Suit yourself." Kousonsan turns to me and Kan'u. "How about it? Can I ask you two to have a sparring match with Chou'un-dono?"
'What? A sparring match with THE Chou'un? That's asking a bit much.' I thought while Kan'u also seemed uncertain of the matter as well.
"Nah, but I..."
"Are you two scared?" Chou'un's sudden taunt certainly provoked Kan'u and little bit of me. But it had a much bigger effect on-
"No way!" -On Chouhi here.
"Hey, Rinrin!" Kan'u jumps.
"Aisha is really strong! That's why she won't lose to someone like you!" Kan'u palmed her face in response to Chouhi's outburst. "Actually, Aisha doesn't even need to fight someone like you. I can beat you to a pulp easily!"
"Oh? You've got quite a lot of confidence." Chou'un said with a bored look, standing up. "Let me test that confidence of yours then."
"That's most welcome!" Chouhi accepted it without hesitation while I let off a smirk.
'This'll be interesting to watch.'
Minutes later…
Here we are standing in the open courtyard, not far from the gazebo. While Kan'u and I watched from the sidelines with Kousonsan, Chou'un and Chouhi faced one another with Chou'un on my right and Chouhi and my left. The atmosphere around here was gradually growing more stiff as the two warriors stared at each other. As exciting as this looked, I have a feeling that Chou'un will have a better time at this than Chouhi. The latter is annoyed and a bit angered while Chou'un still retains a calm demeanor.
"Begin!"
At Kousonsan's call, Chouhi quickly dashed towards Chou'un, jumping up and slams her spear onto Chou'un, who easily blocked it with her spear.
"Hoh..."
Chouhi then leaped back, spun her spear in the air, and charged again, swinging her Viper Spear. However, Chou'un simply took a step to Chouhi's right, evading the attack. In response, Chouhi swung her spear at Chou'un's face only to have the latter taking a step back, gracefully dodging the anticipated attack.
'She's good.' I thought. 'Definitely good. At the first strike, Chou'un already caught onto Chouhi's weakness. If Chouhi keeps swinging her spear around like that, she will be in no position to attack or defend.'
I peeked over to Aisha, who had a serious expression. 'Looks like Kan'u noticed it too.'
Chouhi continues to attack Chou'un with a fury of strikes, but she always misses as Chou'un kept dodging instead of blocking. In a matter of seconds, Chouhi got exhausted while Chou'un looked perfectly fine. "All you do is run away!"
"What's wrong? Is that all you've got?"
"Ngh! Not by a long shot!" Chouhi pouted and started to swing again.
"Rinrin! Stop right there!"
Chouhi abruptly halted herself before turning to Kan'u. "Why are you stopping me? I can still go on."
"I know." Kan'u smiled. "It's just that I want to try fighting her."
I grinned in amusement. 'The burning spirit of a warrior igniting the flames of another...I remember that feeling all too well.'
Chouhi came to the sidelines next to me while Kan'u took her place, facing Chou'un. She brandished her guandao, getting into a fighting stance. I could feel her fighting spirit flaring as orange-reddish aura could be seen like fire around her. Kan'u remained calm before Chou'un, who also stood absolutely still.
"Come." Kan'u said.
Kousonsan, Chouhi, and I waited for one of them to make the first move, but Chou'un simply stared...And then dropped her fighting stance. "If the opponent is really strong, I can tell without needing to fight. Kousonsan-dono, I have seen Kan'u-dono's strength with my own eyes."
"Okay." Kousonsan nodded while Kan'u dropped her stance and Chouhi looked around in confusion.
'Oh, poor Chouhi.' I smiled nervously.
"Well then, Kyoujin-dono..." Chou'un smirked, "Do you wish to spar?"
I thought over it. Facing a member of Shoku's Five Tiger Generals will be no easy feat. Still, Pairen needed help and if I need to get Chou'un's approval to be qualified to help, then so be it.
"Let's." I nodded and trade places with Kan'u. Chou'un and I faced each other eye-to-eye. It was exhilarating to say the least. The idea of facing a member of Shoku's Five Tiger Generals was a dream come true. Still quite disconcerting...But Chou'un has given me this honor so I will return the favor by giving her my best. She got into her own stance, awaiting my attack as I observe her position.
'Chou'un...Her fighting style is exactly how I expect it to be. Speed and agility are her greatest assets. My style makes me an all–around swordsman. But judging by the way how she faced Chouhi-san and Kan'u-san, she is perceptive and able to catch onto the status quo quickly. That means I need to face her in a way that's unpredictable for her to realize and strike before she can see my moves coming but this is a sparring match. No...Against Chou'un, I cannot hold back. Come on!'
I drew my wodao from its sheath and got into high guard stance, as the two of us exchanged firm stares I noticed Chou'un observing me curiously, studying my stance. We stood there for a good few minutes. At the sidelines, Chouhi was literally fast asleep, Kousonsan was getting a bit bored, but Kan'u continued to look at us seriously. Suddenly, Chou'un did a feint jab towards me, her spear came near may hand yet I didn't move.
"Hm..." Chou'un was amused to see me not react to that.
*WHOOSH!*
I instantly brought my wodao down and swat Chou'un's spear away, surprising her. I quickly swung my blade to strike as Chou'un began to dodge my assault. Successfully evading my moves, I halted my advance upon knowing I won't be able to hit her or else making the same mistake Chouhi did. As I return to my high guard stance, Chou'un thrusts her spear at me from above. Obviously a feint since my guard was above. In an instant, Chou'un steps forward and swings the lower part of her spear to my left, hoping to knock me over. I blocked it before grabbing the spear with my left hand and swinging my sword toward her head. Chou'un brought her head backwards to avoid my swing before twisting her spear to loosen my grip. I did. But in a blink of an eye, I grip my sword with both hands and swung a powerful slash from the right. Chou'un easily blocks it but-
*DOONG!*
Kousonsan's eyes widen in astonishment as Chouhi woke up from the sound. The force from my swing was strong enough to send Chou'un back a few large steps. She managed to land smoothly on the ground but her spear and hands are vibrating, causing her to smile with glee. This time, Chou'un went on the offensive, charging at me, much to Kan'u, Kousonsan, and Chouhi's surprise. As she jabbed her spear at my head, I block it and instantly let the force of her spear push my sword back. Much to Chou'un's surprise, she was now leaning forward right next to me as I got my sword off of her spear and swings it directly to her face. Chou'un quickly got a better footing and leaps back, just in time to avoid my slash. I crouch down and sheathe my wodao, eyeing on Chou'un. Noticing my intent, she gets into more versatile stance, pointing her spear directly at me. Kousonsan and Chouhi kept watching, amazed by the maneuvers demonstrated by both of us.
"Sugoi~! Oniichan is strong~!"
"Kiriya..." Kousonsan murmurs. "Your swordsmanship has been truly refined over these last three years. I've never seen someone able to match Chou'un in terms of mobility..."
Kan'u watched on in awe as well. Chou'un and I charge for one final strike against each other.
"HAAAH!" Our cries was as loud as the sound of our collision. We struck past each other before silence engulfed the courtyard. We stood absolutely still for a few seconds before we dropped our stances, satisfied by the bout.
"Kousonsan-dono, it seems your words about Kyoujin-dono's skills are not unfounded. He is more than capable." Chou'un said with a sincere smile as Kousonsan nodded in agreement.
As for me, I walked up to Chou'un and gave her a fist/palm salute. "Thank you for the match. I haven't had one like that for some time."
"I should be thanking you, Kyoujin-dono. Your refined technique, patience, and perseverance has proven you are worthy of my respect."
'To be praised by Chou'un herself is something worth being proud of. She truly lives up to her reputation. I am honored to face off against one of the finest warriors of the Three Kingdoms period.' I blushed in embarrassment.
Later…
We were back in the gazebo, sitting around the table, having tea and ready to discuss details of how to help Kousonsan. Chouhi, on the other hand, didn't seem amused, pouting and sitting with her arms and legs crossed.
"What's wrong, Rinrin? You're looking sullen again." Kan'u asked in concern before Chouhi grumbled.
"Somehow, what just happened makes me feel like Rinrin isn't strong."
"No, that's…"
"Chouhi, you are strong." Chou'un stated. "But you haven't learned to master the use of your immense strength."
Just by looking at Chouhi, I could tell she doesn't get the point.
"Hakukei-dono, about that incident you mentioned the other day..." Chou'un said.
"Ah, you mean the incident at Shakudouzan (1*)?"
"What Shakudouzan incident?" Kan'u asked.
"Kousonsan-dono," I said, "Does this have anything with the bandits in this area?"
"Yes, that's correct. But without the knowledge of their true location, I cannot send a punitive force to quell them."
"Hm..." I mumbled, "Just the other day, my caravan and I ran into a group of bandits whom were trying to rob us. Thankfully, nobody was seriously harmed."
My statement caught Kan'u and Chouhi's attention.
"So you had a run-in with them before, Kyoujin-dono." Chou'un said, "Well, after some careful consideration, I've come up with a plan."
Kan'u folded her arms. "Oh? What plan?"
"We send out a fake caravan with us concealed in the load. We let the bandits take it away on purpose and sneak into their hideout." Chou'un grinned. "In other words, our stratagem is to let the bandits themselves guide us to their hideout."
"I see. That's interesting." Kan'u agreed but Kousonsan says otherwise.
"B-But, going into the bandits' hideout alone is..."
"Nothing ventured, nothing gained." Chou'un interrupted. "In order to extinguish these cunning bandits, some risks are inevitable. What do you say, Kan'u-dono? Kyoujin-dono? Would you like to visit the bandits' lair with me?"
"I'll take it on." Kan'u replied instantly.
"Your plan is flawed, Chou'un-san." My answer got Chou'un to raise a brow at me.
"Care to explain?"
"There are a few problems with your plan that could make the whole thing go downhill real quickly. The first issue is your weapons. You and Kan'u-san use polearms. If you two are to conceal yourself among the load, in which case, I assume in a box, you will never be able to fit your weapons in. As skilled as you two are, I do not believe going into a bandits' lair without your most compatible weapons is a good idea. Secondly is the lair's location." I glanced over to Kousonsan. "Kousonsan-dono, you said you couldn't find the hideout anywhere on Shakudouzan, right?"
"Yes. We searched from the base of the mountain to the peak with no clues of a hideout." Kousonsan answered.
"Then that means that it is possible that the entrance to the hideout is not on the mountain at all but somewhere near it and leads deep below the earth INTO the mountain. Underground caves are infamous for being perplexing mazes. Once you enter, it will take a while before you could find the exit. And if you get caught, the bandits will seal off all of the openings since they know those caves better."
"Well...Those are factors I truly disregarded." Chou'un nodded in understanding. "So what do you propose, Kyoujin-dono?"
"You and Kan'u-san will conceal yourselves in the load as originally planned but I will remain a good distance behind from the caravan to observe, carrying your weapons. When the bandits take the wagons, I can track them to the hideout and figure out the quickest way out when you make it in."
"That...does seem like a sound idea." Chou'un glanced over to Kan'u, who nodded. "But, Kyoujin-dono, if the hideout DOES happen to be a cave, are you sure you can memorize the tunnels?"
"Don't worry, I've encountered large caves before in Qing Province. Memorizing this will be like a walk in the park."
...
"Walk in the park?" Chou'un asked in confusion.
"It's a figure of speech. It means this'll be easy for me." I scratched my head.
"There he goes again with those strange quotes." Kousonsan murmurs with a sweatdrop.
"Very well then, Kyoujin-dono." Chou'un nodded, "Kan'u-dono and I will conceal ourselves while you observe. Agreed?"
"Hai."
"Agreed."
"Hey! Rinrin is going too!" Chouhi jumped in excitement.
"No, you are not." Chou'un rejected as she continued, "Chouhi, this kind of plan requires a lot of patience. We can't make a single noise since the mission here is not to attack but to scout. A noisy person like you couldn't possibly do it. I doubt you could stay quiet even for a moment."
Looking at Chouhi's angered expression, I knew what was coming as I plug my ears.
"THAT'S NOT TRUE! RINRIN COULD DO IT IF RINRIN WANTED TO!"
"Hoh?" Chou'un smirked mockingly. "Then show me here, right now."
"That's easy!" Chouhi sat on the table. "Rinrin just needs to stay still like this. Simple."
1 minute later…
'Twitchin' already...'
5 minutes later…
'She's losing it...'
10 minutes later…
'Uh oh...'
*BOOM!*
"AIYYAA!" Chouhi exploded, since she couldn't hold still much longer.
"Rinrin!" Kan'u shouted in comical shock. "Are you alright? Get a hold of yourself! Wake up! What a high fever!? Kousonsan-dono, please call a doctor! Hurry, please!"
While this whole thing was happening, Chou'un turned her attention to me. "We'll be counting on you on this mission, Kyoujin-dono."
I nodded. "Rest assured. I won't let you down."
Later, in the afternoon…
Third POV
Everything was ready to begin the operation. Kiriya managed to get his mother to lend some of the wagons for the mission. Meanwhile, Chou'un and Kan'u walked up to a cart of supplies that had a large box on it. Kan'u took the lid off as the two looked inside.
"Are we going to hide in here?"
"Hai." Chou'un nods. "It's a little cramped, but it can't be helped."
"If the two of us hide in that, our bodies will be touching each other."
Chou'un smirked at the sound of that way at all. "Don't worry. It's not like I'm not inclined that way at all. In fact, I rather prefer it."
"I see, then..." Kan'u quickly realized Chou'un's words. "U-um, inclined that way...You mean..."
"Kan'u-san. Chou'un-san." Kiriya's sudden appearance caused Kan'u to jump, which confused Kiriya for a bit before gesturing to their weapons in his hands. "Everyone is ready. I'll keep your weapons close so you can use it later."
"Very well." Chou'un nods.
Kiriya glances over and notices the empty box, realizing what it's for, "Are you sure you two can fit in there? Considering your size, I think it will get a bit cramped."
Kan'u blushes from Kiriya's remark, covering her breast while Chou'un smirks. "Kyoujin-dono seems to be infatuated with our size."
Kiriya's cheeks went red for a second before smiling. "Chou'un-san. I've seen girls with more attractive size then yours."
As Chou'un smirked at Kiriya's sarcastic retort, Kan'u simply facepalms herself.
"Say, Kyoujin-dono." Chou'un called. "Why did you accompany your mother to come to You Province? Did you really come here just to simply help an old friend?"
"Why do you ask?" Kiriya wonders.
"From the way you fought, you strike me as a man with purpose. Is there an ulterior motive behind your trip here?"
Kan'u glances at Kiriya, curious of his answer. He chuckles for a moment before nodding.
"Yes. I came here with the desire to seek a home."
"A home?" Chou'un asks.
"My mother and I were forced out of our home in Qing Province years ago and we've been living on the road for some time. I came here so my mother can find shelter under Kousonsan while I work to seek out a place to call home."
"Is that it?" Chou'un asks.
"No." Kiriya solemnly shook his head before turning away and gaze towards the sky, "With the empire as it is, I believe I can be of some service. My mother once told me that having great talent means nothing if you are not willing to use it to help the people around you."
He glanced back at Kan'u and Chou'un, "You both know that the Han Dynasty is corroding with each passing day. If the Imperial Court completely collapses, the wolves will start hounding the sheeps to no end until one alpha stands at the top, alone. By then, the soil of the earth will be drenched with the blood of countless innocents. I plan on DOING something about that."
Chou'un's expression grew serious, agreeing with Kiriya's explanation while Kan'u simply frowns at the truth.
"But...with my mediocre ability, I still am uncertain what role I can play in helping this land. But by taking charge of my life and do something right is a start."
Kan'u's eyes widen at Kiriya's eyes while Chou'un grins, "I see. So your ultimate goal is to discover your ultimate goal."
"You can put it that way." Kiriya nods, "I am nothing more than an auxiliary officer, a simple volunteer. There is little I can do. But I wish to do something...anything to help."
Kan'u and Chou'un raised their brows at Kiriya's explanation.
"Anyway, that's enough about me. We have a job to finish." Kiriya says, getting back to the current mission. "I'll see in the bandits' lair."
Chou'un grinned at Kiriya's elaboration before turning back towards the cart.
As Kiriya leaves, Kan'u watched, 'Kyoujin-dono. There is no doubt in my mind, you and your men were the ones who defeated those bandits that Rinrin and I saw. To be able to defeat those bandits in such a manner. It's something to be feared. But...Now that I have seen you in person, I wonder what kind of future will unfold with you...'
Later, back in Kousonsan's office…
Kousonsan was reading reports and writing documents. Working as a governor of a province, especially a province at the northern frontier wasn't easy. Other than the province's problems, Kousonsan has to deal with the threats of barbarians beyond the Great Wall. The bandits' recent disturbance has not made her job easier. But Chou'un's plan as well as Kiriya and Kan'u's help will be invaluable and if they are successful, it will take a huge weight off her shoulders.
"My, my." A familiar voice hums.
Kousonsan looks up from her table and sees Youku standing at the doorway with a smile.
"You have certainly come far, PaiPai."
Kousonsan narrows her eye comically, "It's Pairen, Madam Youku. I see you haven't changed."
"I'm almost in my forties now, my dear. I hardly have any room left for change." Youku mumbled, walking around the room, "You missed my son quite much, haven't you?"
Kousonsan sighs with a faint smile, "Yes, I have. It's been three years...It feels like a while ago but not at the same time."
"You and little Touka had always been trying to keep up with my Kiriya since you all learned under the same teacher before our departure."
"Yeah." Kousonsan slowly nods.
Thinking back, Kousonsan can remember meeting Kiriya when they were younger along with many other kids as they went to school together under the tutelage of Roshoku-sensei (2*). It was five years ago when their families came to Linyi City and she became quick friends with Kiriya. Other than Kiriya, Kousonsan was also close friends with Ryuubi, aka Touka. They all learned together and played together along with the other kids. Those were truly the thrilling days. But three years ago, the situation for the Kyou family has been grim and Kiriya, his mother, and several people in Linyi City was forced to leave when bandit activities begins to spike, Kousonsan and Touka both returned north to You Province while Kiriya and his mother left for who-knows-where. That was the last time Kousonsan saw him until now.
Flashback, three years ago...
It was the late afternoon with sun almost setting as a younger Kousonsan and another girl were standing within the west entrance of Weishan town in southern Seishuu. The other girl had pink, waist-length, hair styled into small twin buns and blue eyes. They were both dressed in common clothing as they looked around them to see groups of people loading boxes and bags onto wagons. The two girls couldn't help but look on in sadness.
"Pairen-chan." The pink-haired girl called. "Do we really have to leave?"
"We don't have choice, Touka." Kousonsan replies, shaking her head. "Qing Province has suddenly grown too dangerous. Even Roshoku-sensei has returned home after the last bandit raid. There is nothing for us here but to return to You Province."
The girl Touka sighed, "I don't understand...Do we really have to leave? I mean, Madam Youku is strong enough to keep us safe, isn't she?"
"Even a tiger cannot deal with hundreds of rats chewing on him."
A familiar voice called out as the two girls looked to see a familiar brown-haired young man carrying a wodao.
"Kiriya-kun!" Touka smiles before embracing her friend.
"Touka, Pairen." A 15 years-old Kiriya began as he pulled away from the hug. "I just received word that my mother is being removed from office...We are to leave Linyi City."
"What!?" Kousonsan muttered in shock. "How can the higher-ups do this!? After everything your family has done for this province, the Imperial Court is simply going to throw you out!?"
"My grandfather was the only pillar that kept things smoothly." Kiriya replied, "With him gone, my family has become a liability."
...
"I see." Kousonsan nodded.
"Kiriya-kun." Touka called, "Why don't you come with us to You Province? You can stay with us?"
"No." Kiriya shook his head, "My mother and I will only attract trouble. These days anybody who has the surname Kyou will be hunted down and killed since the bandits all want our heads. If we go with you two, then you will be in danger."
"Eh!?" Touka cries. "But, you will die! How will you defend yourself and Madam Youku against all of those bandits? Come with us, there is safety in numbers."
"Can any of you two fight?" Kiriya asks sternly.
"..."
"..."
"I doubt the two of you have even killed a person before, let alone held a real sword." Kiriya explained, "I cannot afford to have you two get caught in the middle of danger. So please, go home."
"Kiriya." Kousonsan called. "Will you be alright?"
"Yes, knowing you two will be safe, I can focus on keeping mother away from danger. Please forgive me for not coming to visit."
Touka walked up to Kiriya and held his hands before shaking her head. "No. We won't be upset. But you must promise us. You will survive."
"I will and I promise. We will see each other again." Kiriya bowed.
"Touka! Pairen!" A woman called out behind the two girls. "It's time to go!"
"Coming mother!" Touka replied before glancing solemnly back at Kiriya. "Goodbye, Kiriya-kun."
"Goodbye, Kiriya." Kousonsan said.
"No." Kiriya shakes his head. "Farewell, but not goodbye."
With that, Touka and Kousonsan sat on one of the wagons as their group began to head north towards You Province. The two girls simply watched as Kiriya stood at the west gate entrance, waving them off. Within a few minutes, he had faded out of sight. Within the hour, Linyi City was out of sight. The two girls pondered over their reluctant farewell to their good friend. They just couldn't help but worry for Kiriya's safety. And why wouldn't they? Kiriya has been the closest thing they had as a friend since their arrival to his home. Now, their childhood friend was heading off to war and at only fifteen, barely a full-grown man.
"We have to do something..." Kousonsan murmured.
"Pairen-chan?"
"We have to do more than just fleeing. Kiriya is back there getting ready to risk his own life to fight for his people...For his friends. And yet, here we are...Running away."
"Pairen-chan...But what can we do?" Touka asks. "We're just peasants."
"So?" Kousonsan replied. "Kiriya's family were originally merchants and craftsmen, look at them now. Fighting to protect the people of Qing Province."
Kousonsan looked back at the direction of Kiriya's hometown, "I'm going to sign up to the local authorities and help put a stop to this turbulence. Roshoku-sensei has said we can do it. Kiriya has already gotten started. So I WILL work hard just like he is doing."
"...A-he-he." Touka giggles.
"What is it, Touka?"
"Pairen-chan has finally found an idol."
"Geh! Touka!" Kousonsan blushes. "What's wrong with admiring your peers?"
"Hehe. Pairen-chan." Touka took Kousonsan's hands. "If you become a government official, then I will be there to support you. Always!"
"Thanks but...Don't you wish to do the same as well?" Kousonsan asked. "Roshoku-sensei did say that you have what it takes to go far, even Kiriya agrees."
"Well..." Touka scratches her head. "I'm actually not good with those kinds of stuff. If anything, I am more of a supporter, not one to take charge. Besides, I still need to help mother in selling sandals."
"Touka. Do you really still wish to stay doing that for the rest of your life?"
"Even if I want to, I cannot do much." Touka said with a sad smile. "I'm not as capable as everyone thinks."
"Sigh...Alright then. I guess we both have our own direction where to go. Wish me luck then."
"Hehe. Pairen-chan! Do your best!"
Present...
Kousonsan grins, "I wanted to be of help since you and Kiriya were struggling so much to survive. But I never would have thought it would be such a heavy load to govern a province."
"That's why you have loyal vassals and allies. No man or woman can ever shoulder such heavy burdens alone, no matter how firm and dedicated they are." Youku said.
"Hmm...you would know." Kousonsan nodded.
"Pairen-san." Youku called, "Thank you for allowing me to stay here. I don't mean to be a bother."
"Don't be ridiculous." Kousonsan shook her head, "You and Kiriya took care of me and Touka years ago. It's high time I returned the favor."
"Even so..." Youku murmured solemnly, "I cannot shake the feeling that I am merely holding everyone back...holding my son back from his future. He has worked so hard so that I can find somewhere to rest. With his talents, he can help make a huge difference to people's lives. And yet...I'm forcing him to waste his talents on me..."
"Madam..." Kousonsan muttered.
"Kousonsan-sama." An attendant came into her office.
"What's the matter?"
"We received word that the bandits attacked our caravan."
Kousonsan's face got serious, "And, how did it go?"
"Yes, the men disguised as merchants are unharmed and the bandits have taken the entire cargo."
"...I see, thank you..." Kousonsan nods.
The attendant looked at Kousonsan with concern. "Forgive my impudence, mistress. But are you alright, Kousonsan-sama? You seem very troubled?"
"Ah, no. I'm fine. You are dismissed for now."
"Very well, mistress. Excuse me." The official left as Kousonsan let out a deep sigh, with a solemn look.
"Have no fear, PaiPai-"
"It's Pairen!"
"S-Sorry. Kiriya will not fail. With Chou'un and Kan'u helping, they will succeed."
"Sigh...I hope so."Kousonsan mumbled in concern, "Kiriya, I'm counting on you..."
Meanwhile…
Within the bandits' lair, they were unloading the provisions and goods into their storeroom. One fat bandit carried a big red box inside and dropped it down heavily onto the ground.
"Ah!" A sudden yelp caught a skinny bandit's attentions.
"What's wrong?" A short bandit asked.
"Was that a woman's voice just now?"
"Huh? What are you saying, aniki?" The fat bandit asked in denial. "You must be really desperate if you're starting to hear things."
"Hm...Possibly...Alright! Let's get the village girl to serve us wine again!"
"We'll drink in celebration today! Haha!" The bandit's chuckled before closing the metal doors behind them, locking it. With them gone, Chou'un peeked out from the box.
"They seem...To have left." Chou'un took the lid off and stood up, looking around while Kan'u was in a real daze after her experience in the box. "Looks like Kyoujin-dono's suspicion were on point. The hideout WAS beneath the mountain."
"Eh?" Kan'u muttered in surprise as Chou'un went over to try to open the metal door.
"Damn! It's locked!"
"What do we do now?" Kan'u asked with a frown, tidying herself up.
"Nothing...With our weapons still with Kyoujin-dono, what can we do? There's no opening either, making it near impossible for us to breath for very long."
For the next hour, the two of them said absolutely nothing and waited patiently for Kiriya.
Kan'u stares at the door in concern. "I only hope that Kyoujin-dono is alright out there?"
Chou'un smirked at Kan'u. "You seem to truly like Kyoujin-dono. Plan on ensnaring him?"
"Ensnar-Gah! O-Of course not! I only just met him today!" Kan'u blushed.
Chou'un smirked in amusement before simply smiling. "Whatever...I think we can both agree that he is an intriguing one, right?"
Kan'u stopped blushing, looking at Chou'un before casually nodding. "Yes. Kyoujin-dono is a strange man...When I watched him fight, I felt a unique aura that radiated like that of nature. Nothing like all of the people I've seen before. It's rather odd though. A person such as himself shouldn't be just a simple auxiliary of a small unit. There has to be more to him than that."
"You're right. He must be. From what I have gathered from Hakukei-dono, he is capable of so much more. He just doesn't realize it." Chou'un said, surprising Kan'u.
"What? Do you know more about him?"
Chou'un smirks. "Curious?"
"Yes."
"As a crush?"
"Chou'un-dono, for Heaven's sake, stop! No!"
"Haha. My apologies. But I believe you will have to ask Kyoujin-dono personally about his past." Chou'un says. "It's not my place to talk about it."
"Sigh...Right." Kan'u mutters.
"Although...I am interested to find out more about him myself." Chou'un smirks, "When I fought him today, I noticed his aura. Odd and exotic. His aura was peaceful, strong but soothing...Like an ocean, tranquil yet fierce with limitless depth and full of adventure and mysteries."
"Really..." Kan'u wondered, 'Kyoujin-dono...Your fighting style is so graceful and strange, but it makes sense too...Where did you learn to fight like that?'
*Dong*Dong*Dong*
A rather sudden knocking on the metal door made the two girls jump in alarm.
"Am I interrupting?" A familiar male voice called out.
"Kyoujin-dono, you're late." Chou'un complained before Kiriya replied from the other side.
"Sorry, ladies. I had a slight distraction while getting here."
"How slight?"
"Minuscule but ominous to say the least."
"Oh, really?" Chou'un raised a brow.
Kan'u walked up to the locked door and called out, "Can you open this door, Kyoujin-dono?"
"I'm workin' on it."
He finally opened it and the two women walked out, "About time, got our weapons?"
"Here they are." Kiriya handed over their weapons, much to their relief. They left the storehouse and began moving around the cave. "We're currently in some sort of abandoned mine. The entrance we went through was actually behind a big waterfall."
"Waterfall?" Kan'u asked in surprise. "No wonder I heard rushing water while we were in the box. That also explains why Kousonsan-dono's troops couldn't find the lair, no matter how hard they tried."
Chou'un agreed. "Kyoujin-dono, do you think we can use the main entrance as an exit?"
"It's too risky. The entrance is heavily guarded from within and they sealed it off right after I entered."
"Hoh~? Then how did you get in?" Kiriya smirked at her question.
"I'm light on my feet." Chou'un and Kan'u eyed him curiously.
"Seriously though, ladies. We've got bigger problems. The bandits have rounded up a number of prisoners here and all of them are young children. If we return to Kousonsan-dono now, then there's the possibility that they will get caught in the middle of the fighting. However, at the same time, rescuing them will also mean we will get noticed."
"Do you have a plan, Kyoujin-dono?"
"I do. But it's dangerous...Are you willing to trust me on this?" Chou'un and Kan'u looked at each other for moment before nodding seriously.
"Tell us what we need to do."
"Alright then, this is how it will go..."
Later…
In the heart of the mine a large hall was where the bandits were throwing a celebration for their recent successes. Some are chatting, some are feasting, some are drinking away, while others are dancing. On top of a higher level, the bandit leader sat there harassing a brunette girl with twin upper pigtails.
"Please, stop it, please." She struggled in his lap as the bandit leader simply laughed drunkenly at her.
"Why, sweetie? It's not like you're going to lose anything." He began groping the girl. "Or is this going to get smaller?"
*ZZIIINNGG!*
"Eh? What the–? GAH–! GEH! OUWA! UGH! Maaaah…" A choking sound could be heard as the other bandits looked to see a brown-haired man dressed in green, standing in their boss's place. He was grinning while his left arm was held up high with a thin wire was come from his hand. Looking up, the bandits shivered in fear to see their boss up there, hanging with a wire around his throat, eyes wide open.
"Sleep well."
*ZZIIINNGG!*
The wire loosened around the bandit leader's neck as he dropped smack dab on the ground as the string retracted itself back into Kiriya's hand. He looked over to the girl. "You alright?"
"A-Ah, hai!"
"Good, I'm here to take you home. Come on." Kiriya raised his hand to her as she took it and he held her next to him around the waist.
"Hey! Who the hell are you!?" A bandit shouted.
Kiriya simply smirked in response. "Not a name you'll be remembering anytime soon."
He brought his hands to his sash and took out several throwing daggers.
"Get him, boys! Make him pay for what he did to aniki!" The bandits charged at Kiriya only for his smirk to get wider.
"Lights out~."
*ZZIIINNGG!*
Suddenly Kiriya threw peddles throughout the hall, knocking over the torches to the ground, leaving the entire hall dark. Thankfully, Kiriya memorizes which opening to exit.
Meanwhile…
In a different part of the cavern, five young girls were huddling together in a prison, three little kids and two early teens, sobbing due to their predicament. There were several other prisons elsewhere in the cavern as well. However, this one was the least guarded with only one bandit there, grumbling at his position.
"Damn, why only me? What a terrible lot I drew...Hm?" The guard looked to his left to see an arm wiggling a long stocking around before dropping it.
"Huh?" The bandit was confused initially but when he saw a woman's naked leg and a hand gesture for to come, his eyes bounced with hearts, mouth drooling. He walked over hoping for an awesome view...Only to get a fist into the jaw.
Chou'un was stepping on top of the bandit's head. "I got the keys."
Not long afterwards, Chou'un and Kan'u are both running towards the rendezvous point that Kiriya told them.
"Keep running we're almost there!" Kan'u shouted as they arrived into a room with various tunnels. There, Kiriya was waiting with the brunette girl and a few more girls. The rescued girls, a total of 27 in all, huddled and hugged each other in relief as Kan'u and Chou'un smiled.
"Girls, celebrate after we get back to town. This way! Come!" Kiriya led the group up to an opening which led to a cliff, high above a stream, deep below the canyon.
Aisha stared down for a few seconds before looking at Kiriya with concern. "Kyoujin-dono, are you sure this was the only opening available?"
"Unfortunately, yes."
Chou'un was also getting a bit concerned. "How are we going to get across this?"
"With our backup."
"Backup?" Kan'u looked more confused when…
"Aisha! Oniichan!" Everyone looked to see Chouhi standing on the other side, waving happily.
"Rinrin?"
"Perfect timing, Chouhi-san!" Kiriya smiled to her.
"Ready to help, oniichan~!"
Chou'un stared at Kiriya before smirking. 'So that's how it is...'
"Alright Chouhi-san, cut that tree down over there!" Kiriya pointed at the tall tree closes to the edge.
"Got it!"
*SLICE!*
The tree began to tip over until it came crashing down onto the cliff, creating a bridge.
"Oho~?"
"Sugoi..."
"Alright girls! Let's move!"
"Hai!" The brunette girl said. "Let's go, everyone!"
The other girls nodded and, one by one, they crossing the tree-turned-bridge. As they did, Chou'un approached me with curious grin. "You asked Chouhi to come and help, didn't you?"
Kiriya smiled, "Before tracking the caravan, I hid a messenger bird in my clothing. When I finished understanding the layout of the mountain both outside and the cave within, I sent it back and have Chouhi-san come to this side to help us escape."
"Nice."
"Oh Rinrin..." Kan'u shook her head but grins.
Chou'un suddenly heard something from the cavern opening as she walked over to listen closer.
"Chou'un-san, they're coming, aren't they?"
"Hai, this is bad. Hurry!" Kiriya looked over to see almost all of the girls have gotten across. The brunette girl was the last to get across as they all embraced on another. Kan'u smiled at the scene when…
*Crraack*
The rock beneath Kan'u gave way as the tree fell into the canyon below…With Kan'u not far behind, much to Chouhi's shock.
"AISHA!" Chouhi shrieked out.
...
Kan'u tried to grab something at the edge of the cliff when she felt a hand grab her. It was Kiriya holding onto her with Chou'un holding his other hand.
"Kyoujin-dono. Chou'un-dono." Kan'u said in relief.
"Come on." With Chou'un's help, Kiriya pulls Kan'u up, away from danger.
"That was close, you two." Chou'un sighed in relief.
"Yeah, thank you both for saving me."
"It was a pleasure."
"But the bridge is..." They all looked to see the tree was gone while the bandits closed in on us.
"Since matters have turned out like this, we have no choice but to be prepared."
"Mm!" Chou'un and Kan'u gripped their signature weapons, ready for a fight. "Let's go, Chou'un. Kyoujin-dono."
"Sei." Kan'u and Kiriya blinked at what Chou'un said. "We're all friends heading to our deaths together. Call me by my mana from now on."
"Alright, Sei. Kyoujin-dono as well, please call me Aisha from now on."
"Hai."
"Kiriya." It was Kan'u and Chou'un's turn to blink at Kiriya. "Only good friends and respectable individuals can call me that. You two have long had my admiration. Call me Kiriya."
"Hai, Kiriya-dono." Aisha nods as Sei simply grins.
"However..." Kiriya smirks, brandishing his wodao. "I don't plan on dying here. I have told you both before, didn't I? I will take charge of my own life. And these bandits are not going to decide it for me. You both want to do some good for this land, don't you? Well, let's get ourselves out of this cesspool."
"Hai!" Aisha and Sei nods in agreement as the three begin to charge into the cave and fight their way out.
'I'm impressed, Kyoujin-dono. With a mind and body like that, you may actually play a great role in the future of the land ahead. And perhaps I could...' Sei thought.
That night…
Kousonsan was in the courtyard in battle armor and with her prized white horse, doing a few practice swings with her sword, ready for the night attack she had planned against the bandits. The official, the one that reported their location to her earlier in the day, came over to make another report.
"Kousonsan-sama."
"What's the matter?"
"Kan'u-dono, Chou'un-dono, and Kyoujin-dono have returned."
"Oh? How did it go?"
"Yes, well. They did a wonderful job discovering the bandits' hideout, but..."
"But?"
"Well, you see–..."
"We finished the job for you!" Kousonsan and the official looked to the courtyard entrance to see Kiriya entering.
"Kiriya? What do you mean?" Kousonsan asked as the official left.
"It's exactly what I meant. We have taken out all of the bandits in Shakudouzan. They will trouble you no more."
"All of them...?"
...
"W-Wait a minute! What about my turn then?" Kousonsan complained as Kiriya shrugged, knowing she wanted a chance at the action, "Gloriously riding on a white horse, 'White Horse General Kousonsan is here!' What about that?"
Kiriya simply shook his head slowly and comically as she sighed in defeat, "Hah man...I really wanted to do some good, since I just became governor."
He placed his hand on her shoulder as she look back at Kiriya, "Being a governor is not always about defeating bandits. If you can manage the people well in domestics as well as militarily defending them, I'm sure people will see you well."
Kousonsan was silent for a moment before nodding in approval. "You're right, Kiriya. I was being too hasty with myself. I'm just so frustrated that couldn't solve the first major issue that came after I became governor."
"Your time will come, Pairen. You just need to be patient. Besides, I'll be around for some time. So, if you need anything, don't be afraid to call. I'm here to serve." Kousonsan looked surprised before smiling. "Thanks. I appreciate it."
"By the way-..."
"Hm?"
Kiriya's expression grew serious. "While I was in the bandits' cave, I found something disturbing that I believe you need to know."
"Disturbing? What?"
"...Follow me."
Kiriya escorts Kousonsan out of the courtyard and into the mansion warehouses. There, several guards were observing the crates inside but had pieces of cloth over their lower face which plugged up their nose and mouth, for a good reason too. The warehouses reeked with an odd stench and flies can be seen buzzing around the crates. Kousonsan had to block her own nose in reaction to the sudden bad smell.
"Good Heavens! What is that smell?" Kousonsan yelps.
Kiriya didn't change his solemn expression as he places his hand on one of the crates and lifted up the lid. Kousonsan walked over, peeked inside, and gasped. Much to her horror, the crates contains partially-rotted corpses.
"Kiriya...This is!?"
Kiriya looks over to Kousonsan. "Before I rendezvoused with Kan'u and Chou'un in the cave, I found these crates filled with dead bodies in a hidden chamber. If it weren't for the bad smell, I wouldn't have found it."
Kousonsan, with widen eyes, gazes at the corpses with disgust. "Are all of these crates filled with corpses?"
"Yes."
"Why...? Why are there boxes of corpses inside of a bandits' lair?"
"Good question." Kiriya wondered, "It's doubtful that these bandits have any real use for them. I believe they are collecting corpses for something...or someone and at a large scale."
"Large scale?"
"Yes. Back on other assignments, I found the same exact thing in other bandits' lairs."
"There are more!?" Kousonsan mutters in surprise before she cups her chin in deep thought, "Now that I think of it...The bandits have grown active almost suddenly in the past few years. Do you think that...Someone is orchestrating these recent bandit raids?"
Kiriya simply shrugged, implying his own uncertainty.
Kousonsan looked back at the crates, "If someone is pulling these bandits like strings on a puppet then-..."
"We need to be prepared for what's coming." Kiriya finished.
Kousonsan looked back at the corpses in the crate before closing it, "Alright. I will send a report to the Imperial Court and let them know of this."
"My mother will remain here with you and help out in domestic affairs. Keep her safe."
"I will. Nothing bad will come to her." Kousonsan and Kiriya walked outside as she sighed, "It seems there is still work to be done."
"Yes. And I will help you." Kiriya nodded as he gives his childhood friend a salute. "With your permission, I would like to raise an army here."
"An army?"
"A militia army to be exact." Kiriya explained. "I want to be of service to this land. Not by simply defending my home district but other provinces as well. By having a mobile militia force I can truly go from place to place helping things out. Besides, it can be huge weight off your shoulders."
"Hmm..."
To be continued…
Next Time:
Chpt.2 - A Second Wing
As Kiriya begins building his militia army with Aisha, Rinrin, Sei, and Pairen's help, his mother Youku introduces him to two newcomers who will be invaluable in his future battles and endeavors.
(1*) - Chi Tong Mountain
(2*) - Lu Zhi
Author's Note: Hello everyone, Seraphius here. I want to thank the many Koihime fans who are still keeping the fanbase alive. The Shin Koihime Musou games are being remade with new graphics and characters. Gi has already been release and Go is on the way to be released in summer.
Also, for those who understands the personalities behind the new characters, please tell of them. I am specifically looking for ones from Gi and Go. For Shoku, I will be adding some few OCs that will play a crucial role in the story that is to come.
And as always, review for anything including holes & errors, as well as possible improvements. Also, I welcome new ideas anytime. It will inspire me and prevent writer's block from happening so don't be afraid to share! See ya!
Here are lists of characters that are present in this chapter:
Kyou (Jiang) Family
Kyoujin/Kiriya (Jiang Shen) - Reincarnation of Kazuya Kirihara (Kiriya)
Kyou Youku (Jiang Yu) - Kyoujin's Mother
Shoku
Ryuubi/Touka (Liu Bei)
Kan'u/Aisha (Guan Yu)
Chouhi/Rinrin (Zhang Fei)
Chou'un/Sei (Zhao Yun)
Others
Kousonsan/Pairen (Gongsun Zan)