Chen Rising Chapter 10
End of an Era: Two become one
The Jin army slowly crept through the misty forests of the mountain range protecting Shu. Matriel was riding at the army's head, Bardiel, Leliel and Sachiel behind him. 'Sahaqiel hasn't returned. He must've failed.' Matriel thought. 'Oh well. I prefer a straight out battle.' Matriel chuckled, eagerly anticipating the moment he would draw his sword. From next to Sima Dan, Chen Cai spoke up. 'My lord, I'm sure that Matriel is up to something. Allow me to execute them now and remove our only threat!' Sima Dan pulled his sword out and pointed it at Chen Cai. 'Speaking like that will lose you your head. Question not my actions or the consequences shall be dire!' He sheathed his sword and rode ahead of Chen Cai. 'Alas, this fool leads us to enslavement.' Chen Cai thought. An idea suddenly popped into Chen Cai's head. 'As soon as we camp, I shall execute my plan.' He thought, riding to catch up to the army.
The letter's meaning was clear. It had been left by Sahaqiel before he departed Cheng Du. 'Guard the north-west, for others will come.' Zhuge Liang read the note again. 'It appears the Romans had their greedy eyes on our country for awhile.' He said. Zhuge Liang pulled out a map of known China. 'They will most likely attack Cheng Du from the north-west.' He thought. A smirk appeared on Zhuge's face. 'They won't know what hit them.' Zhuge Liang said with a laugh.
Shu's camp was set up in a large meadow. Zima Shao and Huan Xong stood on the camp's walls, inspecting the army. 'Our grain supplies are ample? The soldiers are content, and weapons are ready?' Zima Shao asked. 'Yes. Also, I've set up a patrol roster and set up several ambush sites in case the enemy tries to raid our camp.' Huan Xong said. Zima Shao smiled. 'We'll make a general out of you yet.' Zima Shi said, walking up to the two. 'A message for Lord. Zima Shi has arrived!' A soldier called out. Zima Shi jumped off the wall and landed infront of the soldier. Bring the message to me.' He said. 'It must be from Lord Zhuge.' Zima Shao said. The message was given to Zima Shi, who read it out. 'It is said that the wise bird chooses his branch, the wise vassal chooses his lord. I have made the mistake of choosing a weak master, so like the wise bird that chose a weak branch, I shall choose a new branch to stay on. Sima Dan has put his full trusts into the Roman generals. However he doesn't sense the treachery that their leader reeks of, and I fear that if Sima Dan succeeds, our land will be enslaved. Tomorrow night, I shall send the generals Bardiel and Sachiel to raid your base. Prepare a good defense. In three days all of Jin's armies shall attack Luo Castle. Place crossbow men and spearmen in the woods surrounding Luo Castle. The Roman's armor is weak at the neck and under the arms. Consider my words, my lord.' Zima Shao listened to the note. 'Do you think it's a trick?' Suddenly, word spread around that Zhuge Liang had arrived. Zhuge Liang rode up to the three of them. 'I've come to assist you my lord.' He said. Zima Shi nodded and handed Zhuge Liang the note. 'What do you make of this?' Zima Shao asked. Zhuge Liang read the note, and laughed. 'It seems as though the Romans are being gift-wrapped for us.' He said. 'A student I once taught wrote this note. His name is Chen Cai, and he is an excellent strategist. This is written with truthful intentions. Reply immediately.' Zima Shi nodded. He wrote a reply and gave it to a spy. 'Make sure this gets to Chen Cai, and make sure none but him know of it.' The spy nodded and left. 'Make plans to withdraw to Luo Castle tomorrow.' Zhuge Liang said.
Chen Cai sat alone in his tent, working out the details of his plan. 'If Zima Shi takes my advice, then Shu shall be victorious.' He said. A soldier entered his tent. 'Can I help you soldier?' Chen Cai asked. 'My master Zima Shi sends this reply to your message.' The soldier said. Chen Cai looked shocked. 'How did he figure out it was I who sent the note?' He asked. 'The martial lord Zhuge said you were once his pupil.' The soldier replied. 'Master Zhuge Liang?' Chen Cai thought as he opened the note. 'I thank you for your assistance. I doubt that we could've won had it not been for your guidance. When the battle is won, you shall be rewarded.' The note said. Chen Cai wrote a reply. 'I seek neither rank nor office. All I desire is unification under a just lord.' Chen Cai folded the note up and gave to the soldier. 'Give this back to Zima Shi and tell him in the final battle he can expect my assistance.'
'I'll get you for this Zima Shi!' Kai Mei thought. As revenge for ditching him and Son Mia, Zima Shi had assigned Kai Mei and Zima Shao to share a guard shift. Zima Shi knew Kai Mei had a bit of a crush on his brother and used this knowledge to get back at her. 'Curse you!' She muttered under her breath. 'Hm? Did you say something?' Zima Shao asked, smiling. Kai Mei blushed. 'No. Nothing.' Zima Shao let out a small laugh. 'She's so beautiful when she's embarrassed.' He thought. Zima Shao caught himself staring at her and quickly looked away. Zima Shao looked at the night sky. 'Soon, this will all end.' He thought. Kai Mei was watching the field and saw a red flash. Squinting, she recognized what it was. 'They're here!' She said. Zima Shao snapped out of his trance. He ran towards the gong and sounded it. 'Enemy attack!' He yelled out. The soldiers rose up, ready for battle. Scarlet flames shot up and began to slowly devour the base. Among a group of soldiers rode Bardiel. 'I've been waiting for this. Now I shall spill your blood!' He roared. From Shu's side, Xiahou Shang emerged, his new sword glinting among the flames. 'Prepare to die!' He said. He rode towards Wei's battle lines. He shot through, swinging the Demon Fang. Wherever his sword swung, blood shot out. Bardiel watched him and laughed. 'Let me show you how a real warrior fights!' He pulled a large Pike of his back and charged towards Xiahou Shang. Bardiel swung the weapon, which Shang blocked with ease. 'What?' Shang asked casually. 'Was that supposed to be hard to block?' Shang grinned and flung the pike up. 'Now die!' Shang thrust the sword forward. Bardiel could only watch as the sword shot at his chest, eager to taste his blood.
Zima Shao cut horizontally, cutting a soldier's throat open. He heard hoof beats behind and quickly turned and blocked with his swords. His opponent's weapon threw his swords up and impacted on his armor, sending him flying. Zima Shao looked up at his opponent. 'I am Sachiel.' The warrior said. Zima Shao slowly got up, clutching his stomach. 'I don't normally kill unarmed opponents, but today is the exception!' Sachiel said, swinging his ball and chain. Zima Shao dodged, narrowly evading the attack. Sachiel swung again, this time hitting Zima Shao's leg. Zima Shao let out a cry of pain. 'I shall enjoy this.' Sachiel said. He prepared to attack again, but stopped and fell from his horse. Zima Shao saw seven arrows embedded in his back. He looked past the horse and saw Kai Mei and six archers. 'I haven't been this glad to see someone my entire life.' He said. Kai Mei helped him up. 'We've got to get you out of here.' she said. Zima Shao tried to stand, but pain shot through his leg. 'It's broken you idiot! Don't make it worse!' Kai Mei yelled. 'Zima Shao gave a small grin. 'Well how am I going to get on the horse? I can't do it alone.' He said. Kai Mei shook her head. 'Fine.' She bent down and helped him up. 'Thanks.' He said. She nodded, allowing him to lean on her.
The sun had long risen, and Zima Shi looked around the scorched base. 'The plan worked. Chen Cai was truthful.' He thought. He turned to his generals and soldiers. 'The plan was a success. We have killed two of the roman generals thanks to our combined efforts. Now we pull back to Luo Castle in preparation for the final battle.' The troops shouted in victory, and began their march. Zima Shi rode next to his brother. 'Your leg going to be alright?' He asked. Zima Shao let off a small laugh. 'It'll take more than a broken leg to stop Chen's sovereign.' He said. A soldier suddenly ran up to Zima Shi's horse. 'Wu forces approach!' He said. The soldiers all moaned. This wasn't what they were expecting. 'Calm down men. Until they attack, do not move.' Zima Shao said. Zima Shi, Zima Shao, Zhuge Liang, Huan Xong, Kai Mei, Son Ja, Xiahou Shang, Son Mia and Mai Ling rode to the army's rear to meet the Wu forces.
Sun Shang Xiang lead the remaining Wu forces toward Cheng Du. 'Shu's main army is ahead of us.' Lu Xun said. 'Considering that their base back there was destroyed, I'm surprised Jin didn't pursue them.' Gan Ning said. 'There is more to this then what meets the eye. Perhaps their base's destruction was part of the plan.' Lu Meng said. 'In any case, we're going to end this war.' Sun Shang Xiang said, gripping he Chakrams. A group of riders rode out of Shu's army. 'It seems as though they've come.' Taishi Ci said. The group of riders stopped, and one called out. 'For what reason do you raise an army? When has Shu's emperor done you wrong since Wu's surrender?' The speaker said. Shang Xiang yelled back. 'We've come to assist Shu in its battles with Jin!' Zima Shi heard this and rode out of the group. 'Your assistance is welcome. A plan has been made and I feared we didn't have enough troops. With your help, our cause shall succeed!' He said. Shang Xiang nodded, and Shu's troops yelled out victoriously. 'We are pulling back to Luo Castle as part of our plan. Return with us and we shall defeat Jin!'
Chen Cai smiled to himself when he heard of Bardiel and Sachiel's deaths. 'I thought they were supposed to be as strong as Lu Bu. From the report, your warriors couldn't even match one of Shu's generals.' Sima Dan yelled at Matriel. 'They are as strong as Lu Bu! However, they couldn't handle that situation. Shu knew they were coming!' Matriel said. 'But how would Shu have found out?' Sima Dan asked. 'A spy. One of your generals or soldiers.' Chen Cai's heart froze. 'He can't find me out yet!' He thought. Sima Dan pulled his sword out. 'Chen Cai! I want you to handle this!' Chen Cai snapped to attention. 'Yes my lord. I shall find this traitor.' Chen Cai bowed and exited the throne room. 'As for the rest of you, begin mobilisation!' The generals nodded. 'Yes Sir!' As the generals left, only Matriel remained. 'Sir, did you ever stop to think that Chen Cai might be the traitor?' Matriel said. 'Why would Chen Cai do that?' Sima Dan asked. 'My sources have told me that Chen Cai was once a student of Zhuge Liang's and that lately, the two have exchanged messages. This is all very suspicious. Allow me to attack his residence and eliminate him.' Matriel said. 'Bring him to me alive. Make your move at midnight.' Sima Dan said standing up.
Chen Cai sat in his home. Sima Dan had come too close to finding him out. Glancing out the window, he spat his wine out when he saw the position of the stars. 'They'll attack tonight!' He said. Chen Cai gathered a few items from his home. 'I cannot die now.' He thought. He ran out to the stables and mounted his horse. 'Let's go! We haven't a moment to spare!' He rode off and exited the city. An hour later, Matriel's men attacked the house. Finding it empty, they burned it down and reported to Sima Dan. 'So he was the traitor. Send a message to all outposts! Don't let him escape to Shu!'
'Are the archers in place?' Huan Xong asked. 'Yes sir. They're awaiting the arrival of Jin.' The soldier said. 'Lord Huan Xong! A single rider has arrived!' Another soldier yelled out. 'Allow him in.' Huan Xong said. The rider rode up to him and dismounted. 'I must speak to Zima Shi and Zhuge Liang.' He said. 'Why must you meet with them? What's your business?' Huan Xong asked. 'I am Chen Cai, and I've come to defect.' He said. Huan Xong recognized the name. 'So you're Chen Cai.' Chen Cai nodded urgently. 'I must speak to them. There's no time to waste!' Huan Xong led Chen Cai to Zima Shi's tent. Inside, Zhuge Liang and Zima Shi were playing Chess. 'Master Zhuge! Your unworthy pupil has arrived!' Chen Cai said, prostrating himself before Zhuge. Zhuge Liang helped him to his feet. 'What are you doing here Chen Cai? Did something happen?' Zhuge Liang asked. 'The Romans found me out. I had to retreat here alone. They will no longer attack Luo Castle now that my scheme has been found out. We must return to Cheng Du!' Chen Cai said, weeping. A soldier ran in. 'The Jin army has taken Western Shu and is advancing towards Cheng Du! Zima Shi stood up. 'Spread the word. We shall retreat to Cheng Du immediately!'
Zima Shao sat in his tent, looking at his broken leg. 'I am of no use to my brother in this condition.' He said. 'Perhaps then, I might be able to help.' A voice said. Zima Shao looked and saw an old man dressed in rags. 'I had heard from the townspeople that Lord Zima Shao had broken his leg.' The man said. 'Might I ask who you are?' Zima Shao said. 'I am Hua Tuo the physician.' He said. 'The one who scraped the poison from Lord Guan Yu's bone1?' Zima Shao asked. 'The same. I have heard of your plight and have come to help you.' Hua Tuo said. 'But my leg is broken and cannot be moved.' Zima Shao said. 'I have a special healing salve that will fix your leg by this time tomorrow. Just in time for Shu's final battle with Jin.' Hua Tuo replied. 'Master, might I ask for some? It is with the greatest urgency that my leg be healed!' Zima Shao said. 'Of course general. Like Lord Guan before, now you shall see.' Hua Tuo pulled a small bottle from among his rags. He gave it to Zima Shao. 'All you must do is spread that over the inflicted area and your leg will be fine.' Hua Tuo said. Zima Shao offered him gold and land, but Hua Tuo declined. 'I am but a traveller. A man without a set destination. Money would only burden me.' He said, and left. Zima Shao spread the salve on his leg, and it immediately lost some of its pain 'A wondrous man.' He said. Kai Mei ran into his tent. 'We've been given the order to pack up camp and retreat to Cheng Du! We have to hurry!'
As Cheng Du grew closer, so did Zima Shi's nervousness grow. 'The time has finally arrived. The army halted at Cheng Du's gate. 'Where are Lord Guan Yu and the others?' Zima Shao asked Zhuge Liang. 'They are carrying out their part of my plan. All we must do is fight our battle against Jin.' Zhuge said. Zima Shao rode up to the two. 'Brother, come with me. We must take steps to ensure that Liu Chan survives even if we don't.' Zima Shao looked at him. 'What are you planning? What was the last set of instructions you gave Sahaqiel?' Zima Shao asked. 'You will find out. Follow me.'
Zima Shi and Zima Shao ran into the palace. 'Where's Liu Chan?' Zima Shi asked one of the guards. 'In the nursery with Lady Mai Ling.' the guard responded. Zima Shi sat on the throne, while Zima Shao went to get Mai Ling. Zima Shao burst into the nursery. 'Mai Ling! Zima Shao wants you and Liu Chan in the throne room!' Zima Shao said. Noticing the tone of urgency in his voice, Mai Ling picked up Liu Chan and ran to the throne room. When she reached the Throne Room, she noticed Son Mia and Huan Xong were there also. When she reached the throne, Zima Shi spoke. 'The Jin army has penetrated too deeply into Shu, and I fear the kingdom we have been trying to make will fall. I want you three and Liu Chan to flee. Leave Cheng Du.' Son Mia was the first to protest. 'No way! Are you crazy? Where will we go?' Zima Shao spoke up. 'A home has already been arranged near Wu Zhang Plains. This isn't a matter that you have any say in. This isn't easy, but it must be done.' Mai Ling and Huan Xong nodded, knowing there was no other way. But Son Mia wouldn't back down. 'No way am I going along with this! I'd rather fall in battle!' Zima Shi stood up. He slowly walked down the throne until he stood in front of Son Mia. 'Sorry about this.' He said. He then hit her on the back of her neck, knocking her out. He turned to Mai Ling and Huan Xong. 'Take her and go.' He said. Several guards picked Son Mia up and lead Huan Xong and Mai Ling outside the palace. They came to the palace stable, where Kai Mei sat in a cart. 'Come on! We have to get out of here quick!' Meanwhile, in front of the city, Zima Shi sat on horseback with Zima Shao and his generals surrounding him. 'Do you believe we have made the right choice?' He asked Zima Shao. 'I believe we have. In order for Liu Chan and the others to live, we had to.' Zima Shao said. Zima Shi nodded. 'Then let's begin this.' So saying, he kicked his horse, prompting it to charge. 'This shall be the final battle! Win or lose, this is the end!'
Son Mia had a headache. She opened her eyes to find herself in the back of a cart. 'What happened?' She said. Kai Mei turned around. 'We've made our precautional escape.' She said. 'Zima Shi you loser! I can't believe you pulled something like this!' Son Mia yelled. 'Yell any louder and he may here you.' Huan Xong said quietly. Mai Ling hit him in the back of his head. 'Ow! What'd I do?' He said. Mai Ling pointed at Son Mia. She was crying, and clutching something in her right hand. 'How could you?' She said, looking at the ring in her right hand. 'And after I accepted! How dare you!'
The two armies faced each other. 'Now is the day you scum from Jin die!' Zima Shi yelled. 'They are the ones who killed lord Sachiel and Bardiel! They must pay!' Matriel yelled. 'You're plans will only lead to the nation being taken over by the Romans! Sima Dan, don't be a fool!' Chen Cai said. 'You're a traitor! You don't have the right to speak to our lord!' Wei Xian said. 'Enough of this! We came here to battle!' Zima Shao said. The two armies charged in unison. Fighting his way through the enemy, Zima Shi came face-to-face with Sima Dan. No words were exchanged. No battle cry's uttered. They simply charged at each other. Two blades rose and fell, and one rider fell to the ground, his head lost from it's shoulders. Across the battlefield, a single cry went out. 'VICTORY!'
The Roman's army walked through the forest. 'If Matriel's plan goes right, then their whole army will be battling Sima Dan. We will conquer them without any loss!' The leader said. Suddenly, an army appeared out of the forest. 'Prepare to face the might of Guan Yu and the Tiger Generals!' The Roman's army was thrown into confusion as crimson flames shot up and rose to the sky.
The army rode slowly back to the capital, the soldiers silent, not believing that they had done it. Throughout the country, fireworks lit up the dark night, celebrating the long awaited union. In each city, in each province, the people celebrated. The people all over rejoiced, two words echoing throughout the nation. 'Shu won!'
Seven years later
Zima Shi stabbed his sword through one of the Qiang warriors. 'These guys are persistent eh brother?' Zima Shao slashed through two warriors. 'You can say that again!' Zima Shi cleaned the blood off his swords and looked at the group of surrendered rebels. 'These fools and their uprisings.' Zima Shao said. 'You warriors had no desire to be a part of Yuan Feng's uprising. Those of you who surrendered, go back to your homes.' The Qiang people expressed their thanks, and Shu's army began its long journey Southwest.
The army rode into Cheng Du to the cheers of the people. Zima Shi and Zima Shao stopped their horses infront of the palace and walked into the throne room. On the throne, sat the nine year old emperor Liu Chan. 'Uncle Shi, Uncle Shao, I'll assume you stopped Yuan Feng's uprising?' Zima Shi bowed. 'Yes, dear nephew. Yuan Feng has fallen.' Liu Chan nodded and rose. He descended the steps. 'I thank you for handling that uncle. Say hello to Aunt Mia for me.' He said. Zima Shi nodded and left the palace. He remounted his horse and rode to the outskirts of the city. He stopped in front of his home and dismounted. He walked into the building only to be tackled. 'Daddy!' Zima Shi laughed. 'Nice to see again to Zima Li' He said, pulling his five year old daughter off him. 'Where's your brother?' Zima Shi asked. 'Zima Xiu is over at Uncle Shao's house playing with Zima Han.' Son Mia said, walking in. Zima Shi laughed and stood up. 'Well my wife, I'll assume things have been well these past few months?' He asked. 'It's been peaceful.' She said. Zima Shi laughed. 'I'll guess you have my sister and Huan Yue over?' He asked. 'How'd you know?' Son Mia asked. 'I could tell because Zima Li disappeared so quickly.' Son Mia laughed. 'Too true.' Zima Shi walked into his study and sat down. He opened a book and began to write. The last thing he worte before he walked out was 'It's finally over.'
Epilogue
A young man sat in a boat on the Chang Jiang River. 'I haven't caught anything all day!' He said. Suddenly, he felt a tug on his line. 'Finally!' he said, pulling his line in. When he finally got it in, he saw not a fish, but a sword. He read the inscription on the blades side. The deeply engraved letters read 'Dark Wolf'
Ah yes, tis true. 10 chapters come and gone. This is my finest story to date, and I've become too attached to the characters here. So I'll have time to occupy my few study periods at school, I've decided to make a sequel to Chen Rising! All I can say about it is that It takes place 200 years after Chen Rising. Keep checking back for the sequel to Chen Rising: The Empire Long United!
Bahamaboy
End of an Era: Two become one
The Jin army slowly crept through the misty forests of the mountain range protecting Shu. Matriel was riding at the army's head, Bardiel, Leliel and Sachiel behind him. 'Sahaqiel hasn't returned. He must've failed.' Matriel thought. 'Oh well. I prefer a straight out battle.' Matriel chuckled, eagerly anticipating the moment he would draw his sword. From next to Sima Dan, Chen Cai spoke up. 'My lord, I'm sure that Matriel is up to something. Allow me to execute them now and remove our only threat!' Sima Dan pulled his sword out and pointed it at Chen Cai. 'Speaking like that will lose you your head. Question not my actions or the consequences shall be dire!' He sheathed his sword and rode ahead of Chen Cai. 'Alas, this fool leads us to enslavement.' Chen Cai thought. An idea suddenly popped into Chen Cai's head. 'As soon as we camp, I shall execute my plan.' He thought, riding to catch up to the army.
The letter's meaning was clear. It had been left by Sahaqiel before he departed Cheng Du. 'Guard the north-west, for others will come.' Zhuge Liang read the note again. 'It appears the Romans had their greedy eyes on our country for awhile.' He said. Zhuge Liang pulled out a map of known China. 'They will most likely attack Cheng Du from the north-west.' He thought. A smirk appeared on Zhuge's face. 'They won't know what hit them.' Zhuge Liang said with a laugh.
Shu's camp was set up in a large meadow. Zima Shao and Huan Xong stood on the camp's walls, inspecting the army. 'Our grain supplies are ample? The soldiers are content, and weapons are ready?' Zima Shao asked. 'Yes. Also, I've set up a patrol roster and set up several ambush sites in case the enemy tries to raid our camp.' Huan Xong said. Zima Shao smiled. 'We'll make a general out of you yet.' Zima Shi said, walking up to the two. 'A message for Lord. Zima Shi has arrived!' A soldier called out. Zima Shi jumped off the wall and landed infront of the soldier. Bring the message to me.' He said. 'It must be from Lord Zhuge.' Zima Shao said. The message was given to Zima Shi, who read it out. 'It is said that the wise bird chooses his branch, the wise vassal chooses his lord. I have made the mistake of choosing a weak master, so like the wise bird that chose a weak branch, I shall choose a new branch to stay on. Sima Dan has put his full trusts into the Roman generals. However he doesn't sense the treachery that their leader reeks of, and I fear that if Sima Dan succeeds, our land will be enslaved. Tomorrow night, I shall send the generals Bardiel and Sachiel to raid your base. Prepare a good defense. In three days all of Jin's armies shall attack Luo Castle. Place crossbow men and spearmen in the woods surrounding Luo Castle. The Roman's armor is weak at the neck and under the arms. Consider my words, my lord.' Zima Shao listened to the note. 'Do you think it's a trick?' Suddenly, word spread around that Zhuge Liang had arrived. Zhuge Liang rode up to the three of them. 'I've come to assist you my lord.' He said. Zima Shi nodded and handed Zhuge Liang the note. 'What do you make of this?' Zima Shao asked. Zhuge Liang read the note, and laughed. 'It seems as though the Romans are being gift-wrapped for us.' He said. 'A student I once taught wrote this note. His name is Chen Cai, and he is an excellent strategist. This is written with truthful intentions. Reply immediately.' Zima Shi nodded. He wrote a reply and gave it to a spy. 'Make sure this gets to Chen Cai, and make sure none but him know of it.' The spy nodded and left. 'Make plans to withdraw to Luo Castle tomorrow.' Zhuge Liang said.
Chen Cai sat alone in his tent, working out the details of his plan. 'If Zima Shi takes my advice, then Shu shall be victorious.' He said. A soldier entered his tent. 'Can I help you soldier?' Chen Cai asked. 'My master Zima Shi sends this reply to your message.' The soldier said. Chen Cai looked shocked. 'How did he figure out it was I who sent the note?' He asked. 'The martial lord Zhuge said you were once his pupil.' The soldier replied. 'Master Zhuge Liang?' Chen Cai thought as he opened the note. 'I thank you for your assistance. I doubt that we could've won had it not been for your guidance. When the battle is won, you shall be rewarded.' The note said. Chen Cai wrote a reply. 'I seek neither rank nor office. All I desire is unification under a just lord.' Chen Cai folded the note up and gave to the soldier. 'Give this back to Zima Shi and tell him in the final battle he can expect my assistance.'
'I'll get you for this Zima Shi!' Kai Mei thought. As revenge for ditching him and Son Mia, Zima Shi had assigned Kai Mei and Zima Shao to share a guard shift. Zima Shi knew Kai Mei had a bit of a crush on his brother and used this knowledge to get back at her. 'Curse you!' She muttered under her breath. 'Hm? Did you say something?' Zima Shao asked, smiling. Kai Mei blushed. 'No. Nothing.' Zima Shao let out a small laugh. 'She's so beautiful when she's embarrassed.' He thought. Zima Shao caught himself staring at her and quickly looked away. Zima Shao looked at the night sky. 'Soon, this will all end.' He thought. Kai Mei was watching the field and saw a red flash. Squinting, she recognized what it was. 'They're here!' She said. Zima Shao snapped out of his trance. He ran towards the gong and sounded it. 'Enemy attack!' He yelled out. The soldiers rose up, ready for battle. Scarlet flames shot up and began to slowly devour the base. Among a group of soldiers rode Bardiel. 'I've been waiting for this. Now I shall spill your blood!' He roared. From Shu's side, Xiahou Shang emerged, his new sword glinting among the flames. 'Prepare to die!' He said. He rode towards Wei's battle lines. He shot through, swinging the Demon Fang. Wherever his sword swung, blood shot out. Bardiel watched him and laughed. 'Let me show you how a real warrior fights!' He pulled a large Pike of his back and charged towards Xiahou Shang. Bardiel swung the weapon, which Shang blocked with ease. 'What?' Shang asked casually. 'Was that supposed to be hard to block?' Shang grinned and flung the pike up. 'Now die!' Shang thrust the sword forward. Bardiel could only watch as the sword shot at his chest, eager to taste his blood.
Zima Shao cut horizontally, cutting a soldier's throat open. He heard hoof beats behind and quickly turned and blocked with his swords. His opponent's weapon threw his swords up and impacted on his armor, sending him flying. Zima Shao looked up at his opponent. 'I am Sachiel.' The warrior said. Zima Shao slowly got up, clutching his stomach. 'I don't normally kill unarmed opponents, but today is the exception!' Sachiel said, swinging his ball and chain. Zima Shao dodged, narrowly evading the attack. Sachiel swung again, this time hitting Zima Shao's leg. Zima Shao let out a cry of pain. 'I shall enjoy this.' Sachiel said. He prepared to attack again, but stopped and fell from his horse. Zima Shao saw seven arrows embedded in his back. He looked past the horse and saw Kai Mei and six archers. 'I haven't been this glad to see someone my entire life.' He said. Kai Mei helped him up. 'We've got to get you out of here.' she said. Zima Shao tried to stand, but pain shot through his leg. 'It's broken you idiot! Don't make it worse!' Kai Mei yelled. 'Zima Shao gave a small grin. 'Well how am I going to get on the horse? I can't do it alone.' He said. Kai Mei shook her head. 'Fine.' She bent down and helped him up. 'Thanks.' He said. She nodded, allowing him to lean on her.
The sun had long risen, and Zima Shi looked around the scorched base. 'The plan worked. Chen Cai was truthful.' He thought. He turned to his generals and soldiers. 'The plan was a success. We have killed two of the roman generals thanks to our combined efforts. Now we pull back to Luo Castle in preparation for the final battle.' The troops shouted in victory, and began their march. Zima Shi rode next to his brother. 'Your leg going to be alright?' He asked. Zima Shao let off a small laugh. 'It'll take more than a broken leg to stop Chen's sovereign.' He said. A soldier suddenly ran up to Zima Shi's horse. 'Wu forces approach!' He said. The soldiers all moaned. This wasn't what they were expecting. 'Calm down men. Until they attack, do not move.' Zima Shao said. Zima Shi, Zima Shao, Zhuge Liang, Huan Xong, Kai Mei, Son Ja, Xiahou Shang, Son Mia and Mai Ling rode to the army's rear to meet the Wu forces.
Sun Shang Xiang lead the remaining Wu forces toward Cheng Du. 'Shu's main army is ahead of us.' Lu Xun said. 'Considering that their base back there was destroyed, I'm surprised Jin didn't pursue them.' Gan Ning said. 'There is more to this then what meets the eye. Perhaps their base's destruction was part of the plan.' Lu Meng said. 'In any case, we're going to end this war.' Sun Shang Xiang said, gripping he Chakrams. A group of riders rode out of Shu's army. 'It seems as though they've come.' Taishi Ci said. The group of riders stopped, and one called out. 'For what reason do you raise an army? When has Shu's emperor done you wrong since Wu's surrender?' The speaker said. Shang Xiang yelled back. 'We've come to assist Shu in its battles with Jin!' Zima Shi heard this and rode out of the group. 'Your assistance is welcome. A plan has been made and I feared we didn't have enough troops. With your help, our cause shall succeed!' He said. Shang Xiang nodded, and Shu's troops yelled out victoriously. 'We are pulling back to Luo Castle as part of our plan. Return with us and we shall defeat Jin!'
Chen Cai smiled to himself when he heard of Bardiel and Sachiel's deaths. 'I thought they were supposed to be as strong as Lu Bu. From the report, your warriors couldn't even match one of Shu's generals.' Sima Dan yelled at Matriel. 'They are as strong as Lu Bu! However, they couldn't handle that situation. Shu knew they were coming!' Matriel said. 'But how would Shu have found out?' Sima Dan asked. 'A spy. One of your generals or soldiers.' Chen Cai's heart froze. 'He can't find me out yet!' He thought. Sima Dan pulled his sword out. 'Chen Cai! I want you to handle this!' Chen Cai snapped to attention. 'Yes my lord. I shall find this traitor.' Chen Cai bowed and exited the throne room. 'As for the rest of you, begin mobilisation!' The generals nodded. 'Yes Sir!' As the generals left, only Matriel remained. 'Sir, did you ever stop to think that Chen Cai might be the traitor?' Matriel said. 'Why would Chen Cai do that?' Sima Dan asked. 'My sources have told me that Chen Cai was once a student of Zhuge Liang's and that lately, the two have exchanged messages. This is all very suspicious. Allow me to attack his residence and eliminate him.' Matriel said. 'Bring him to me alive. Make your move at midnight.' Sima Dan said standing up.
Chen Cai sat in his home. Sima Dan had come too close to finding him out. Glancing out the window, he spat his wine out when he saw the position of the stars. 'They'll attack tonight!' He said. Chen Cai gathered a few items from his home. 'I cannot die now.' He thought. He ran out to the stables and mounted his horse. 'Let's go! We haven't a moment to spare!' He rode off and exited the city. An hour later, Matriel's men attacked the house. Finding it empty, they burned it down and reported to Sima Dan. 'So he was the traitor. Send a message to all outposts! Don't let him escape to Shu!'
'Are the archers in place?' Huan Xong asked. 'Yes sir. They're awaiting the arrival of Jin.' The soldier said. 'Lord Huan Xong! A single rider has arrived!' Another soldier yelled out. 'Allow him in.' Huan Xong said. The rider rode up to him and dismounted. 'I must speak to Zima Shi and Zhuge Liang.' He said. 'Why must you meet with them? What's your business?' Huan Xong asked. 'I am Chen Cai, and I've come to defect.' He said. Huan Xong recognized the name. 'So you're Chen Cai.' Chen Cai nodded urgently. 'I must speak to them. There's no time to waste!' Huan Xong led Chen Cai to Zima Shi's tent. Inside, Zhuge Liang and Zima Shi were playing Chess. 'Master Zhuge! Your unworthy pupil has arrived!' Chen Cai said, prostrating himself before Zhuge. Zhuge Liang helped him to his feet. 'What are you doing here Chen Cai? Did something happen?' Zhuge Liang asked. 'The Romans found me out. I had to retreat here alone. They will no longer attack Luo Castle now that my scheme has been found out. We must return to Cheng Du!' Chen Cai said, weeping. A soldier ran in. 'The Jin army has taken Western Shu and is advancing towards Cheng Du! Zima Shi stood up. 'Spread the word. We shall retreat to Cheng Du immediately!'
Zima Shao sat in his tent, looking at his broken leg. 'I am of no use to my brother in this condition.' He said. 'Perhaps then, I might be able to help.' A voice said. Zima Shao looked and saw an old man dressed in rags. 'I had heard from the townspeople that Lord Zima Shao had broken his leg.' The man said. 'Might I ask who you are?' Zima Shao said. 'I am Hua Tuo the physician.' He said. 'The one who scraped the poison from Lord Guan Yu's bone1?' Zima Shao asked. 'The same. I have heard of your plight and have come to help you.' Hua Tuo said. 'But my leg is broken and cannot be moved.' Zima Shao said. 'I have a special healing salve that will fix your leg by this time tomorrow. Just in time for Shu's final battle with Jin.' Hua Tuo replied. 'Master, might I ask for some? It is with the greatest urgency that my leg be healed!' Zima Shao said. 'Of course general. Like Lord Guan before, now you shall see.' Hua Tuo pulled a small bottle from among his rags. He gave it to Zima Shao. 'All you must do is spread that over the inflicted area and your leg will be fine.' Hua Tuo said. Zima Shao offered him gold and land, but Hua Tuo declined. 'I am but a traveller. A man without a set destination. Money would only burden me.' He said, and left. Zima Shao spread the salve on his leg, and it immediately lost some of its pain 'A wondrous man.' He said. Kai Mei ran into his tent. 'We've been given the order to pack up camp and retreat to Cheng Du! We have to hurry!'
As Cheng Du grew closer, so did Zima Shi's nervousness grow. 'The time has finally arrived. The army halted at Cheng Du's gate. 'Where are Lord Guan Yu and the others?' Zima Shao asked Zhuge Liang. 'They are carrying out their part of my plan. All we must do is fight our battle against Jin.' Zhuge said. Zima Shao rode up to the two. 'Brother, come with me. We must take steps to ensure that Liu Chan survives even if we don't.' Zima Shao looked at him. 'What are you planning? What was the last set of instructions you gave Sahaqiel?' Zima Shao asked. 'You will find out. Follow me.'
Zima Shi and Zima Shao ran into the palace. 'Where's Liu Chan?' Zima Shi asked one of the guards. 'In the nursery with Lady Mai Ling.' the guard responded. Zima Shi sat on the throne, while Zima Shao went to get Mai Ling. Zima Shao burst into the nursery. 'Mai Ling! Zima Shao wants you and Liu Chan in the throne room!' Zima Shao said. Noticing the tone of urgency in his voice, Mai Ling picked up Liu Chan and ran to the throne room. When she reached the Throne Room, she noticed Son Mia and Huan Xong were there also. When she reached the throne, Zima Shi spoke. 'The Jin army has penetrated too deeply into Shu, and I fear the kingdom we have been trying to make will fall. I want you three and Liu Chan to flee. Leave Cheng Du.' Son Mia was the first to protest. 'No way! Are you crazy? Where will we go?' Zima Shao spoke up. 'A home has already been arranged near Wu Zhang Plains. This isn't a matter that you have any say in. This isn't easy, but it must be done.' Mai Ling and Huan Xong nodded, knowing there was no other way. But Son Mia wouldn't back down. 'No way am I going along with this! I'd rather fall in battle!' Zima Shi stood up. He slowly walked down the throne until he stood in front of Son Mia. 'Sorry about this.' He said. He then hit her on the back of her neck, knocking her out. He turned to Mai Ling and Huan Xong. 'Take her and go.' He said. Several guards picked Son Mia up and lead Huan Xong and Mai Ling outside the palace. They came to the palace stable, where Kai Mei sat in a cart. 'Come on! We have to get out of here quick!' Meanwhile, in front of the city, Zima Shi sat on horseback with Zima Shao and his generals surrounding him. 'Do you believe we have made the right choice?' He asked Zima Shao. 'I believe we have. In order for Liu Chan and the others to live, we had to.' Zima Shao said. Zima Shi nodded. 'Then let's begin this.' So saying, he kicked his horse, prompting it to charge. 'This shall be the final battle! Win or lose, this is the end!'
Son Mia had a headache. She opened her eyes to find herself in the back of a cart. 'What happened?' She said. Kai Mei turned around. 'We've made our precautional escape.' She said. 'Zima Shi you loser! I can't believe you pulled something like this!' Son Mia yelled. 'Yell any louder and he may here you.' Huan Xong said quietly. Mai Ling hit him in the back of his head. 'Ow! What'd I do?' He said. Mai Ling pointed at Son Mia. She was crying, and clutching something in her right hand. 'How could you?' She said, looking at the ring in her right hand. 'And after I accepted! How dare you!'
The two armies faced each other. 'Now is the day you scum from Jin die!' Zima Shi yelled. 'They are the ones who killed lord Sachiel and Bardiel! They must pay!' Matriel yelled. 'You're plans will only lead to the nation being taken over by the Romans! Sima Dan, don't be a fool!' Chen Cai said. 'You're a traitor! You don't have the right to speak to our lord!' Wei Xian said. 'Enough of this! We came here to battle!' Zima Shao said. The two armies charged in unison. Fighting his way through the enemy, Zima Shi came face-to-face with Sima Dan. No words were exchanged. No battle cry's uttered. They simply charged at each other. Two blades rose and fell, and one rider fell to the ground, his head lost from it's shoulders. Across the battlefield, a single cry went out. 'VICTORY!'
The Roman's army walked through the forest. 'If Matriel's plan goes right, then their whole army will be battling Sima Dan. We will conquer them without any loss!' The leader said. Suddenly, an army appeared out of the forest. 'Prepare to face the might of Guan Yu and the Tiger Generals!' The Roman's army was thrown into confusion as crimson flames shot up and rose to the sky.
The army rode slowly back to the capital, the soldiers silent, not believing that they had done it. Throughout the country, fireworks lit up the dark night, celebrating the long awaited union. In each city, in each province, the people celebrated. The people all over rejoiced, two words echoing throughout the nation. 'Shu won!'
Seven years later
Zima Shi stabbed his sword through one of the Qiang warriors. 'These guys are persistent eh brother?' Zima Shao slashed through two warriors. 'You can say that again!' Zima Shi cleaned the blood off his swords and looked at the group of surrendered rebels. 'These fools and their uprisings.' Zima Shao said. 'You warriors had no desire to be a part of Yuan Feng's uprising. Those of you who surrendered, go back to your homes.' The Qiang people expressed their thanks, and Shu's army began its long journey Southwest.
The army rode into Cheng Du to the cheers of the people. Zima Shi and Zima Shao stopped their horses infront of the palace and walked into the throne room. On the throne, sat the nine year old emperor Liu Chan. 'Uncle Shi, Uncle Shao, I'll assume you stopped Yuan Feng's uprising?' Zima Shi bowed. 'Yes, dear nephew. Yuan Feng has fallen.' Liu Chan nodded and rose. He descended the steps. 'I thank you for handling that uncle. Say hello to Aunt Mia for me.' He said. Zima Shi nodded and left the palace. He remounted his horse and rode to the outskirts of the city. He stopped in front of his home and dismounted. He walked into the building only to be tackled. 'Daddy!' Zima Shi laughed. 'Nice to see again to Zima Li' He said, pulling his five year old daughter off him. 'Where's your brother?' Zima Shi asked. 'Zima Xiu is over at Uncle Shao's house playing with Zima Han.' Son Mia said, walking in. Zima Shi laughed and stood up. 'Well my wife, I'll assume things have been well these past few months?' He asked. 'It's been peaceful.' She said. Zima Shi laughed. 'I'll guess you have my sister and Huan Yue over?' He asked. 'How'd you know?' Son Mia asked. 'I could tell because Zima Li disappeared so quickly.' Son Mia laughed. 'Too true.' Zima Shi walked into his study and sat down. He opened a book and began to write. The last thing he worte before he walked out was 'It's finally over.'
Epilogue
A young man sat in a boat on the Chang Jiang River. 'I haven't caught anything all day!' He said. Suddenly, he felt a tug on his line. 'Finally!' he said, pulling his line in. When he finally got it in, he saw not a fish, but a sword. He read the inscription on the blades side. The deeply engraved letters read 'Dark Wolf'
Ah yes, tis true. 10 chapters come and gone. This is my finest story to date, and I've become too attached to the characters here. So I'll have time to occupy my few study periods at school, I've decided to make a sequel to Chen Rising! All I can say about it is that It takes place 200 years after Chen Rising. Keep checking back for the sequel to Chen Rising: The Empire Long United!
Bahamaboy