Disclaimer: I do not own Dynasty Warriors or Three Kingdoms

Breaking Storm

The news was disastrous and the last thing the Chancellor needed. Zhong Yao had sent word, but Xun Yu had not wanted to believe it. He was expecting it, but not so soon, not so suddenly. The news from Liang Province was to become a disaster for the court. Ma Teng and Han Sui had risen in rebellion, gathering over one hundred thousand troops, according to Yao's report. Other clans, tribes, and regional warlords had joined forces with Ma Teng and Han Sui, naming themselves the Guanxi Coalition. This was urgent news, and the Chancellor needed to hear it, though he doubted that the young man would take it well.

Cao Pi had rapidly assembled his generals and lords when he had heard the news. He had thrown a fit, venting his anger out on the messengers who had told him. Ma Teng and Han Sui were said to be shrewd lords, and together presented a formidable threat. According to Yao, they united under the pretense of saving the Han emperor from the Cao family. To Cao Pi it was both laughable and infuriating. To think that he was named a traitor for upholding a dynasty that could not stand without him by its side. Liang and Yong provinces were northern provinces and were long sought after by the Chancellor's father, Cao Cao. The region had always been unstable, but Cao Cao had never attacked out of fear of being attacked by Sun Quan or Liu Bei. Liang and Yong were inhospitable places, with local magistrates making up the majority of the law enforcement and leadership in the region. The result was constant fighting and crime, coupled with corruption and rebellion. Bandits and rebels considered the two provinces as their sanctuary, with Ma Teng and Han Sui recruiting all men who were willing to join their cause regardless of their backgrounds. No wonder they had attained such massive power; they had the aid of bandits and tribes. Bribery could go very far.

"Your Excellency, Zhong Yao has said in his report that all of his attempts to reason with Ma Teng and Han Sui have failed." Xun Yu was reporting in front of the entire council. "Governor Zhong has led repeated attempts with his local troops to try to subdue the Xiliang troops but to little avail."

Xiliang was a famous region within the northern provinces that Ma Teng had hailed from. The horses of the region were famous throughout the land for their speed and grace. They horses and the hearty men who hailed from the region were part of Ma Teng and Han Sui's powerful forces, and made up the strongest portion as well.

"How far are Ma Teng and Han Sui from the capital?" Cao Pi asked.

"Still quite distant, your Excellency. The two men had not anticipated such a strong winter this year, which has considerably slowed their advance," Xun Yu said.

"And how many men can we expect to attack us? How many does this Coalition have in its ranks?"

"A little over one hundred thousand, your Excellency," Xun Yu replied. Behind the man, the other advisers shifted in obvious dismay.

"So what do you suggest we do, gentlemen? Ma Teng and Han Sui are experienced commanders, leading a renowned cavalry force, and commanding a large body of men. As my court and advisers, what can we do to prevent their complete takeover?"

"Your Excellency, Ma Teng and Han Sui have no interest in surrender or compromise. They only wish to see your Excellency and his family dead." Now Dong Zhao spoke up, who was a clever and experienced man, like Cheng Yu and Xun Yu.

"Therefore, your Excellency, you only have one choice; you must fight against this rabble and preserve your reign and control," Cheng Yu said. At this, many ministers stepped forward, in agreement with Cheng Yu.

Cao Pi stood up, carefully examining the faces of his generals, who had thus far remained silent, and the faces of the ministers. Both seemed to be urging him to fight back, and their wishes matched the wishes of his heart.

"If I can defeat this Guanxi Coalition, then I shall gain dominion over both Yong and Liang provinces, providing me with a foothold to attack Yi province with," Cao Pi said shrewdly. "But who shall I send to defeat this force, and who shall lead the men into battle?"

Xun Yu stepped forward at his lord's question. Bowing low and keeping his face calm, Xun Yu braced himself for the result of what he had to say.

"Your Excellency, the only way I can imagine a perfect victory, is for you to go yourself." The head's of all members of the court turned at this suggestion, brazenly made by Xun Yu.

"And why must I lead this force, Xun Yu?" Cao Pi said calmly, above the shoats of outrage from various generals and ministers.

"Ma Teng is a man who fights and leads by example. He charges into battle with his men to show them how he wants them to apply themselves. Inspires and watches his men, giving them courage and discipline." Cheng Yu, Chen Qun and Dong Zhao began to nod slowly, "His late Excellency was a man of this creed as well. How can a general expect his men to fight well if their leader does not watch them? Furthermore, as the Chancellor of the great Han dynasty, you must always watch to look out for talent and merit on the field of battle. If you do not go your Excellency, then your men and followers will doubt your devotion to them and to this dynasty."

The older man finished on a powerful note, his voice resonating throughout the wide hall. All the men present held they're breathes until their lord; the Chancellor seated above them, let out a loud laugh.

Chen Qun winced, expecting the worst. His friend's laugh could be pleasant when he was pleased; a laugh that could make any who heard it join in with laughter of their own. But Cao Pi often laughed with malicious intentions, often sarcastically laughing, or cackling in amusement at the failure of one of his brothers. He had been laughed at through a fair portion of his life and now he laughed at others as others had laughed at him. He couldn't tell if his lord and friend was pleased, but Cao Pi hated the battlefield, and being suggested to go by one of his vassals would do nothing for his temper.

However, while his friend did indeed do what he had expected, he did it in a manner he did not expect. The Chancellor's laugh was loud and, to everyone's surprise, in good spirit.

"Xun Wenruo, you are indeed worthy of the trust my father had bestowed upon you!" A few court officials looked surprised, but others looked amused by the sudden outcome. "Very well then, I will go to Yong and Liang provinces and put down these foolish rebellions. But, who shall I take with me on this excursion?"

This question stumped everyone, and the entire court paused to think on who should be sent. The shrewd Jia Kui stepped forward to speak.

"Your Excellency, I suggest the honoured general Zhang He to be sent to quell this rebellion and to guide your Excellency into battle. General Zhang He is experienced and clever in the arts of war."

""While General He is no doubt talented, can he be trusted with such an important task? Grand Commandant Xiahou Dun should be allowed to prove his worth to his extravagant title by setting out himself," said Dong Zhao.

"A sneak attack by Liu Bei or Sun Quan may strike us at any moment. It would be best if we sent only lower ranking generals or officials to aid Zhong Yao in putting down the rebellion. If we gain the support of the local tribes, then we can send either Colonel Cao Zhen or Colonel Cao Xiu to aid Zhong Yao," Chen Qun suggested.

"While Colonel's Cao Zhen and Cao Xiu are talented, a man of greater experience is perhaps needed," Xun Yu argued. Cheng Yu nodded in agreement to his colleague's words.

"General Xiahou Yuan is familiar with the territory and is skilled in many aspects of warfare. Should he be sent, he will no doubt destroy this army. After all, his previous Excellency's faith in the General was famous."

Cao Pi, who had watched the debate with interest, was now completely taken in. This was his chance to view the talents of multiple generals while in battle. His uncle Xiahou Yuan was said to be a talented general and a caring and involved teacher. Unlike Cao Zhang who spent every waking hour training for battle and studying war manuals, Cao Pi had preferred to study literature, leaving his military training much more stunted. He would kill if he had too, and he could do it easily as well. But to directly kill someone himself was something he considered undignified. As a leader of men, he expected others to kill for him, and that he would have no need to sully his weapons, but that little dream of his had to end. He had to deal with killing and blood as soon as possible, and by directly involving himself on the battlefield he would be better able to overcome his weakness in the area.

"Very well then, gentleman. I have decided to go on this campaign and lead it myself. And the general I have decided to take with me is my talented and trusted uncle, General Xiahou Yuan. I will bring peace and justice back to Liang and Yong, and free it from the tyranny of the Ma and Han families, that I promise you!"

"Guo Huai, don't act so nervous! It's just like in training! You have fought with tribes and bandits, these Liang rebels are no different!"

The newly made major, Guo Huai looked at his lord and commander with an air of nervousness, despite the general's words. Xiahou Yuan was an excellent teacher and trained his men well, but this feeling of anxiety would not leave the young man.

"The men of Liang are said to be fierce and the horses are swift. Bandits and tribesmen are nothing to them, I fear," he said in subdued tones.

"Haha, now I know why your father didn't want you to get married! You'll make the ladies of the court think you a coward with talk like that!" Xiahou Yuan said laughingly. "Be more confidant! You're strong and clever; that's part of why I chose you to be my Major!"

Guo Huai continued to look anxious, prompting the general to speak out in an effort to relate to him. Guo Huai was from a middle-class family, but he possessed greater talent than anyone Yuan had seen for a long time. He fought ferociously and had the potential to be an excellent strategist in battle, but these traits were lessened by the young man's caution and unsure actions. He was understandably nervous, but Yuan would not allow some rebels from the west to scare his best new officer into submission.

"Major Guo Huai, you are the fourth major to be appointed under my command. You know why?" he asked. The confused man shook his head. "The others either died painfully or left my command." He smiled in response to his officer's shocked and frightened look. "They were all either too arrogant, blood thirsty or disloyal. You are none of things, Guo Huai. You are one of the most devoted men to our previous and new lord's mission to unite this land. And that makes you both a man of incredible bravery and loyalty, quite unlike half the men I have dealt with over the years. Don't be fazed by your enemy; it doesn't fit you. Just be the great soldier I know you to be, or else I'll forever be disappointed."

His tone was light and soft, emphasizing the kindness and humbleness the general displayed to all his men. For Guo Huai, it was this understanding that made him so devoted to him. Looking towards the men preparing for the journey, he couldn't help but smile a little and feel relieved that this was the general he was risking his life for.

Cao Chong was a clever and talented boy; being able to discern and evaluate things many of those older than him could not, including his older brothers. But one thing he could not understand was the relationship between his eldest brother and his wife, lady Zhen.

The two seemed to avoid each other mostly, but whenever they did cross paths, there would only be a brief exchange, before they parted. Cao Pi looked more angry and acted more temperamental then usual after these exchanges, while Zhen would look downcast, or strangely enough, pleased. He had heard from his mother that Cao Pi was the first among his brothers to get married and the first to have a child. Cao Rui was a sharp boy, and he too could sense the tension between his parents, despite his young age. Normally, Chong would not bother himself to attempt to understand the complications between his brother and his sister-in-law, but the kindness both had shown him, or at least the kindness his brother had shown, warranted his involvement in this rather strange affair. His elder brother treated him well, even though dislike was obvious in his tone or manner towards him. He had allowed him to remain in contact with his mother through letters. Cao Yun and Juu were also treated well, and Wang Chang, the man who had tutored his elder brother, tutored Chong. His brother was leaving to engage Ma Teng and his family as well as his allies at Liang and Yong province, quite a far distance away from Xuchang. Xiahou Shang, a personal friend of his brother, was instructed to watch and take care of him will his brother was gone. Life was easy for him before, when his father had still lived, and now, being away from his mother was painful, but he had to bear through it. If he could make his brother properly acknowledge him and grant him a high title or post, then he would never have to worry again. Xuchang was a far safer place than his assigned fief, and despite being away from his mother, he knew that this was the decision she had made for him in hopes of him having a safe future. No matter the pain, he had to bear through it…

Zhang He was the final military commander needed. Cao Pi had surprised others when he declared his intention of bringing the man with him, as the two scarcely talked or even interacted. However, Pi was well aware of Zhang He's military talent and he believed that his talent would be key to this mission. Despite the warning raised in the court earlier, about the man's loyalty, the Chancellor decided that it would be know that men would display their loyalty to his cause, and thus he would root out the loyal from the untrustworthy. Zhang He would be a valuable asset, one that he could use in the uncertain times ahead of him.

"Ah, your Excellency! I must say, your visit is most… unexpected. Had I been prepared, I would have been able to properly prepare myself for your visit!"

The shrill voice that greeted him made the Chancellor flinch inwards. Zhang He, whatever his talents, was a strange and peculiar man. His choice of clothing and weapons, as well as his rather odd mannerisms made him the strangest general serving Cao Pi at the moment.

"Zhang He, please forgive me for intruding your home so unexpectedly, but I have a matter of great importance to discuss with you."

"And what, pray, is this important matter, your Excellency? I have heard reports that the army is to march to war with the rebels in Liang and Yong. Do I, perhaps, have anything to do with this?"

"Zhang He, I have decided to bring you along with me to fight and crush this Guanxi alliance that has been formed against me! Will you accept this appointment to serve me?"

Cao Pi glanced at the general kneeling in surprise before him. He had evidently thought that he would not be included in the military expedition to the west. But Zhang He was a cunning and shrewd man, said to be crafty and skilled in politics. His surprise and shock could have been a ruse, of course, in order to test his own lord's goals and choice in choosing him to join him on the western campaign.

"Your Excellency, I have been mocked, rebuked and insulted by your court since I joined you father in achieving his dream!" The young general looked passionate yet sullen as spoke. "Your father was willing to trust me, and now you come to me. I fought for your father because I believed in his goal, but what goals do you have? What future do you desire?"

The Chancellor was caught off guard. This type of personal discussion with a general was inappropriate, unless given permission by his lord, in this case, the Chancellor himself. But Cao Pi knew that if he did not answer Zhang He's questions, then he would lose the trust of the man, and the trust of however Zhang He told. He decided to tell Zhang He what he held in his heart; what he desired most.

"Domination. To have complete control over the land. The power to model and create a new world, where people can live up to the potential they hold within themselves. That is what I desire, and that is the vision, the dream I wish for you to help me achieve." Cao Pi spoke softly, but in his voice, Zhang He could detect his passion, the charisma behind it.

Falling swiftly to his knees, Zhang He looked up at his vaguely surprised lord, his eyes shining with belief.

"Yuan Shao was a mighty man, but he could not create the world I wanted to see. Your father was a far greater man, but his death was so sudden, I never had the chance to properly help him." Now the general smiled, his face suddenly lit up. "But now in you, I can see a world I would very much like to see. I ask for forgiveness to my impertinence, but now I am ready to serve, if you still want me, your Excellency!"

The acceptance by a man of such might nearly caused Cao Pi to stumble, but he kept himself firm. Never had a man of such stature ever held him in such regard. His uncles were willing to see him grow and progress, his tutors and advisers only wished to gain a portion of whatever gains he made, and his friends supported him out of their close personal and familial relationship. His cousins were like his friends and his brothers and most of his sisters scorned him. This however, was the first time someone of such talent and power had ever displayed faith in him. To have someone believe in you was… an interesting thing.

"Zihuan, are you sure you want to bring him along?" His uncle's tone was confused and surprised.

"I thought you liked and trusted General Zhang He. I believe that you recommended him to my father in a few combat missions?" Cao Pi said.

"Uhh, well I do like Junyi, but I thought you disliked the man?"

"I never expressed dislike towards him. In fact, I am rather fond of him in a way."

Xiahou Yuan snorted. His nephew's fondness was rather more like a man having fondness for a stray dog.

"I am surprised either way. I mean, he's likeable in a way, and he's a solid fellow, crafty as well. Says things that go over my head, but I like him. I didn't think that you would like him though."

"Well uncle, take it as a sign that I am improving. I can know say that I trust General Zhang He. For know at least."

The Chancellor's uncle sighed as they rode on with their horses. The men were behind them, alongside the supplies and equipment.

"You know, uncle; this will be the first large military campaign I will undertake without my father. It is a nerve racking thing to think about, isn't it?" Cao Pi's tones were more subdued now, softer as he reflected on his present situation. He fell forward slightly however, looking at his uncle in surprise when he was clapped on the shoulder by the man.

"Don't let it get to you. You are strong and brave. First times are always scary or nerve racking. But you always have others to rely on. Especially me! I can protect you better than anyone, and Xu Chu is here as well." His uncle sounded wiser now, though his tone was still playfully gruff. "Trust others and trust yourself, and you'll be okay. Your father did the same, and you're his son. You can fulfill his dreams and you own."

Yes, maybe I can. The world is difficult and dangerous, but I have been sheltered, putting on an air of false bravery. I must persevere and fight on. This world will experience the joys of my rule one day.

"Onward, to Hong Nong!"

Well that's another chapter done. Leave a review if it takes your fancy.

So this and the next chapter are it for the holiday period. I will be gone until January Nine, so see yah later!

I am sure you all know who Chen Qun is. A good politician and friend of Cao Pi.

The others you should research if you don't know.

Hong Nong was a city close to where the next battle will be. I don't know if it was established then, but who cares?

IgNighted out bitches.