Disclaimer: I do not own Dynasty Warriors. Dynasty Warriors are owned by their respective owners.
Precisely one year. That was the time Brian had lived in his new world. He could still clearly remember the day the Emperor rode in his little town, as well as the enormous leaps his starving town had made to the blooming city it was now. It was the plaza he was standing on at this very moment where that fated meeting took place but compared to then, some things had definitely changed.
The townspeople back then were so poor and unhealthy, they could never survive a harsh winter, let alone a true weather disaster. Today, his people smiled with full stomachs despite the harsh snowy winter that had just passed by and had left its tracks on the land.
The people wore worn-down clothes back then that had lost all their function. As Brian gazed over the plaza now, he saw all sorts of clothing but worn down was definitely not the term suited for those beautiful creations. Even in the coldest days, his people still experimented with fashion to make the best out of it.
Back then, the people of Jin Cheng did only know his name while he could ride through his town without any notice. Now, he was recognized just by face alone and thanked and invited by every last one of his citizens.
Those and many more details were the results of his task and leadership. However, despite all that progress, there were still many obstacles yet to be overcome.
According to the rumors, Meng Huo had found allies in the wizards of the north and was currently rampaging through the lands near Cheng Du to reunite the tribes with their help. Reports came that Lu Bu was spreading his hold towards Brian's border, and Cao Cao's former ally Li Dian had recruited many soldiers from Yuan Shao's former army at Guan Du. Cao Pi had done the same in Xuchang, making it incredibly difficult to push through those forces without being flanked by the other.
Guan Yu's children had gained control over Fan Castle, while Guan Yu himself was holding the reigns on Changban. Sima Yi's children had settled near He Fei, at Guangling to be precise. However, he also had to be wary of Zhang Liao, who had defended He Fei thus far from many enemy assaults with incredible might.
Sun Quan's older brother Sun Ce was ruling over Xiangyang, just southwest of Xuchang, and Sun Jian appeared to be in Wujin. Somewhere between Luo Yang and Yang Yu Liu Bei stayed, yet his exact location remained unknown. Chibi was under the rule of Lu Xun, while Lu meng controlled the area south with an iron fist. Lastly, Zhong Hui was making Jiangxia his own in the far south.
Those rumors were drawn out on a map in Brian's war room and observed for a considerable amount of time. Thus, when the winter ended, Brian marched with his army for another campaign, this time planning to unite most if not all of the land for good.
During the winter, he had discussed and planned the perfect route of his campaign with his strategists and learned the weakness of his kingdom all too well. Thus, he knew the west cities Tianshui and Chang'an would be safe but also knew Luoyang was currently surrounded by three sides and would not last long in an active war.
Thus, the first plan was to relieve the pressure by advancing to the north while sending reinforcements to Luo Yang. However, before he could challenge Liu Bei into battle and force the lord of virtue to surrender, something else had to be done first.
The halberd on his back was a unique one, not one easily reproduced or copied. It had been a gift by a mysterious man, and Brian was determined to find that man before he would start his campaign. If there was a chance that man could make more of those weapons, it was a path he could not forsake. With the black stallion Shadow Runner, he rode towards the mountain range in the south of Tianshui, a small army of his loyal troops following him in his track.
For any normal man, finding the mysterious man would be extremely difficult. For Brian, it was not. As usual, his Hud gave him another notification he was about to enter a battle. A battle for fame, to be precise. But that was not what had drawn Brian's curiosity. Why are there question marks on the possible recruiter? He thought as he continued. Even when the road split into three, he paid no attention to it as he followed the map in his Hud.
''My lord. Wasn't it wiser to divide our forces and take all three routes?'' Fa Zhang asked suggestively.
''I prefer to stick together in these unknown lands. If there are any enemies nearby, they can threaten us easier when we are divided than when we are together,'' Brian answered.
''As expected of the great lord of Jin Cheng,'' A sudden voice responded. ''Tell me, did my gift guide you to what you may seek? Or is it insufficient to help you find what you have yet to find?''
Brian's soldiers spread out around their lord as quickly as they could, moving into a position to protect their lord from harm. ''Show yourself or I will burn this entire place to the ground,'' Fa Zhang threatened calmly.
An old man stepped from behind the rocks, calmly turned his attention to the group, and responded, ''Do not worry. I am just a simple blacksmith. I do not wish to cause you any harm.''
He doesn't look like an enemy. But why are there question marks floating above his head? Brian thought before he asked, ''You know me? If you know my name, can you tell me yours?''
The man looked right towards him, his eyes as colorless as the snow on the mountains in the back. ''My name? I am afraid that my name has been long forgotten. If you wish to call me anything, then call me Forge master.'' A Castlevania reference? Hope this guy doesn't forge demons though. Brian internally joked.
''Forge master? May I assume this is your creation then?'' Brian asked as he held the halberd in front of him.
''That is correct. This child is the first rare creation I have crafted thus far. It is rather young and stubborn, so I hoped it would end in the hands of a capable warrior. It seems my wish came true.''
Brian stepped off his horse, walked to the old man with his halberd in his hand, and asked, ''What do you mean by this halberd being young and stubborn? How could you possibly tell?''
The old man bared an all-knowing grin. ''My apologies, lord Brian Miller. Since I have been grown to the forge all my life, it became a second nature to get to feel my creations.'' The old man raised his hand and touched the halberd with just a single finger. A few seconds later, and a curious smile appeared on his face. ''It seems my child is content with serving a lord like yourself.'' The things I have to deal with... if it wasn't for some of these incredible feats and wizards, I would have called you a madman. Brian thought as he stared the old man in the eyes, and noticed a lack of light in them. Wait, is he...?
''Excuse my rudeness, but are you blind, forge master?'' Brian asked confused.
''An exceptional eye for detail. Yes, the blessing of sight has never been on my side.'' There was a momentary silence before Brian's HUD changed to another battlefield form. Victory conditions: ? reaches the escape point. Wait, why are there so many enemies?!
Just as Brian thought how to tell it, a scout came running, kneeled in front of him, and reported, ''Lord Brian! A large group of soldiers is coming from the south and east and they are closing in fast!''
Brian pulled his weapon back, giving the old man a slight worry before the lord commandingly said, ''Master Fa Zhang.''
''Yes, Lord Brian. What is it?'' The strategist instantly responded as he walked to his lord, alerting his men to stand on guard with a simple gesture.
''There is a large group of enemies approaching us from the south and south-east. Their target is the forge master. Protect him while we make our return to the north,'' Brian commanded.
''Yes, my lord,'' He then turned around to his soldiers and commanded, ''Protecting this man with everything you got while making a defensive fall back to our base in Tianshui! Failing me will be a debt you can never repay.''
''Yes, master Fa Zhang!'' The soldiers confirmed as they helped the old man move, and made a defensive retreating line just as ordered.
Fa Zhang wasn't done yet as he non-verbally ordered a messager to him and commanded, ''Go back to Tianshui and send a request for reinforcements. Dismissed!''
''Yes, sir!'' The soldier responded before he took one of the horses and rode back.
Zhao Yun, Lian Shi, and Xiahou Dun came riding from the rear as expected, question marks visible in their expressions. ''Master Fa Zhang? What's going on?'' Zhao Yun asked worriedly.
''We have enemies approaching us from the south and east. I am not sure how many,'' The slick-back strategist answered just as worried. ''They seemed to target this man for whatever reason. We can't let them get past here.''
''There is a small passage where we came through on our way here. Let's us retreat and form an impregnable defense there,'' Brian ordered just another message appeared before him. ''Master Fa Zhang, I am entrusting you to make that defense unbreakable.''
''Understood,'' The strategist confirmed. As all three Secure Locations were activated for his bodyguards, Brian could focus on the message that had appeared in front of him. Three moving dots, all moving through separate ways, all focused on a single target. Assassins. Why are there always assassins involved? Brian thought annoyed as a familiar battle theme echoed in the back of his head.
Aside from the three assassins, a pursuit force was making its way to the blacksmith for a yet unknown reason. There weren't any specific names in the group of enemies that caught Brian's eyes, but it was a remarkable force nevertheless.
Normally, Brian would charge them head-on, but this time was different. There was no need to charge in again. His fame was currently maxed until his city further developed, and his level wouldn't rise so easily anymore by some fodder. It wasn't worth killing more than what was needed. Less killing less meant red-colored nightmares and restlessness nights.
The moment the Forge master would go through that escape point, this battle was over anyway. The only ones who could reach him in time were the assassins, and Brian made sure to keep a close eye on their movement.
Thus, the first assassin quickly realized he became the victim when he passed the west mountain path. ''?!'' Just before he could scream, Brian's halberd slashed through his body, coloring the brown sand red from his blood. The second assassin met his fate on the south path and only the last assassin could see his target in the distance before he fell motionless on the ground.
By the time the opposing army reached the passage, Fa Zhang's defensive was completed. ''Fire!'' He commanded, a rain of arrows unleashed on his command.
''Watch out! It is raining arrows!'' a soldier shouted as his companions tried to survive the barrage. The commander in charge was quickly shot down by Lian Shi personally, further sturring the chaos of the enemy army.
''Their numbers are not to be taken lightly, but their command is unorganized. If I push through them now, they would surely scramble and run back with their tails between their legs,'' Xiahou Dun commented as he stared at the one-sided massacre from the back.
''That leaves us open for a counter. I think it is better to wait for reinforcements and let them handle the offensive,'' Brian suggested as he shifted his eyes on one of Fa Zhang's subordinates. ''Is it possible to hold the defense for just a little longer?''
''Yes, it is. Despite their morale, the enemy soldiers do not retreat. It seems they will be punished severely if they did. However, they are not pushing up at us at well, so they are in quite the predicament,'' The subordinate answered.
''Then we might not have to wait for reinforcements,'' Brian commented as he whistled, stepped on his horse, and commanded, ''Xiahou Dun, Xu Yi, follow me to the frontline!''
As the two officers acknowledged his words, Brian rode straight ahead to the defensive line of his army. Soldiers under his belt roared in triumph as he rode past them, further proving that Brian alone was already a decisive factor for his army. As the morale boosted even further and further onto his favor, Brian eventually reached Lian Shi and Fa Zhang's location.
''Lord Brian. Excellent timing. I was just hoping for you to come,'' The slick-back officer commented grinningly. ''I assume that you are aware of the current state of the battle?''
''Yes. That's why I am here. Rejoice, master Fa Zhang. You will have a lot of soldiers in your depth when I am done here,'' Brian answered as he rode forward on his horse, followed by his group of loyal soldiers.
Thirty minutes later, an army of half-baked soldiers dropped their weapons and surrendered to the lord of Jin Cheng. Although they doubted serving the lord of Jin Cheng at first, they would later learn that was the best decision they ever made.
With the unknown blacksmith called Forge master successfully recruited and guided safety back to his capital, Brian continued his campaign to the next destination.
The northeast province called Ji Province was the border of his kingdom. The exact border was the Yellow River. Riding past it, Brian could understand why it was given that name. Little particles of silt floated in the streaming river, coloring the river in a beautiful yellow glow.
The lands around the river were perfectly fertile and looked as if they were designed for agriculture. Yet, not a farmer was insight in these beautiful green lands. ''Why is there no one here?'' Brian asked as he continued to lead his army towards the next destination.
''Some of the bandits that attacked Luo Yang retreated to the north,'' Cao Ren answered as he rode alongside his lord.
''We did send a squad after them, but they returned empty-handed,'' Xiahou Yuan commented annoyed.
''The local people must have fled when they heard those criminals coming to their lands. I hope they have found a safe haven,'' Cai Wenji spoke in worry.
''There is nothing we can do for them now,'' Xiahou Dun responded as he continued to scout the area with his single eye. It was unnecessary because Fa Zhang and Sima Yi had already sent out scout troops to make certain their travel would not be disturbed that easily. Brian's own eyes were lurking from the sky as Ranger continued to observe for hostile activity. Or a good snack. How are you not fat yet? Brian wondered as the falcon dove into the water and came out of it with a decent-sized fish.
While the conversations continued about the minor things, such as the glowing color on the cloudless that indicated the change from afternoon to evening, to what they were planning once they were home once again, Li Ru came riding from the back. ''Lord Brian. The village of Jie Liang is nearby. I think it is better for the morale of our soldiers if we stay the night there.''
One glance over the faces of his men, and Brian concluded that was indeed the best option. ''Very well. Li Ru, lead us to Jie Liang.''
Riding towards the new town, Brian hoped for a warm welcome. However, just as he had feared, another battle menu popped in front of him. A battle to recruit allies this time, ha... Let's get this over with...
Three hours later, the five officers who were responsible for the defense of Jie Liang sat captured on their knees in front of their conquerer. They were local officers, who were just there to protect their lands and people from the increase of bandits and other criminals. According to the blood on the wooden walls of the town, and the many traps lying around just on the outside of the city, it seemed they had done their job admirably.
Once Brian realized that was the only thing they did, he asked if they were willing to join his side and become his subordinates. That evening, under a cloudless sky, his locals partied with the soldiers as they had long forgotten. If that situation would have stayed the same if Brian had not commanded his troops to not kill anyone during that battle, none of the soldiers wanted to know. They were just glad they followed such a benevolent lord.
The northern lands of Ji province were a long plain of sandy hills. On the north of the province was a large altar, once the home of the leader of the Yellow Turban Rebellion. To reach that altar, you had to go through large caves where the temperature dropped at least ten degrees celsius compared to the plain, burning sun. It was either that or you had to move through the canyon to the east. Either way, it was clear for Fa Zheng this would not be the best terrain for a prolonged battle between two similar armies.
Brian's main camp was in the south, where there was nothing but sand and hills. The burning sun had the soldiers at their mercy if it wasn't for the umbrellas some of the villages had provided. Fa Zheng looked worried as he inspected the battlefield in that devastating heat. ''Why are you frowning, master Fa Zheng?'' a calm voice asked.
The slick-back officer looked behind him to see the innocent smile on his former lord's face. ''My apologies for showing you that face, lord Liu Shan. I am just worried about the upcoming battle. It feels strange to point our weapons to your father.''
Liu Shan's smile never left his face, but his eyes looked slightly conflicted. ''I understand that feeling. I wish father would just join our side but it seems that is just wishful thinking.'' His eyes changed to an unfamiliar sort of happiness that even shocked Fa Zheng for a moment. ''On the bright side, I can show father how much I have grown since we split apart.''
Fa Zheng looked momentarily perplexed before he showed a big grin. ''You have grown so much, lord Liu Shan. Let us show your father how much he has missed.''
~Front base of the south.~
''Can I have some water too? This heat is insane,'' A soldier commented tiredly.
''Here. There is plenty of water thanks to the villagers and the opened trade routes to the Yellow River. I am glad Lord Brian thought about that before moving to attack Liu Bei,'' Another soldier responded.
''I heard it was master Xin Pi's idea. I am glad Lord Brian really listens to his advisers,'' The third soldier spoke in an impressed tone.
''I am glad we have so many reliable allies at our side. It will not be long until Lord Brian unites the land,'' The second soldier said before his eyes turned curious. He leaned closer to his comrades as he asked while pointing a finger at his lord, ''Is he doing the thing again?''
''Yeah, he is doing the thing again. I wonder what strategy he will come up with next,'' The first soldier wondered out loud as he just finished filling his thirst.
''I am curious as well. I heard Lord Liu Shan would join this battle. I am kinda wondering if all that training paid off,'' The second soldier commented again.
''You just said you were glad we have so many reliable allies at our side. How can you question them already in just mere seconds?'' The third soldier asked jokingly.
The second soldier shook his head in defeated acknowledgment. ''Fair enough. I just can't help to be a bit worried though. I guess I took that over from our lord,'' He commented with a weak grin.
The first soldier wanted to comment on that again but at that moment, Liu Yi shouted a command. ''Attention!'' A group of around twenty-four soldiers with the finest weapons lined up, their eyes forward as they listened carefully to the next commands. A man in a long white robe with green and black lines walked up to the group, his long black beard as intimidating as his the stare coming from those light-brown eyes. ''Thank you, Liu Yui.'' Zhuge Liang shortly bowed before he shifted to the soldiers and commanded with a low and calm voice, ''You will be in charge of protecting our lord with your lives. Move with him and do not leave his side. Every wound that is inflicted on his body during this battle is on you. Do you understand?''
''Yes, sir!'' The twenty-four soldiers answered in unison.
Zhuge Liang's eyes did not illustrate any emotions, but deep in his heart, he was conflicted yet determined at the same time. A commanding voice pulled him out of those thoughts and reformed the reason why he was here. ''My loyal followers, listen well!'' Brian's voice echoed over the land. It was hearable all over his camp. Momentarily, nobody spoke but just listened. ''In a few moments from now, we will be fighting lord Liu Bei and his army. For some of you, he is a former lord who holds just as much value as me. You will be fighting former allies and some of you may worry about hurting them. I remind you here that you are fighting with your lives on the line, and so are they! If you hold back, you will die! If you show empathy for a second, you will die! Make them surrender if you do not wish to kill them, but live to tell the tale! We are here to unite the land, not to paint it in blood! Go, and show our enemy why this will be our future!''
And thus, under the roars of his soldiers, the battle against Liu Bei began.
''It sure is lively out there. We might have to join the battlefield soon. What do you think, Xu Shu?'' A mysterious wide-clothed man with a covered mouth asked the younger strategist from the temple to the north.
''I am not certain we will make a difference there, Master Pang Tong,'' The young lord voiced his opinion from inside his green hood. Despite his fancy clothing, Xu Shu's appearance was more of a well-clothed thief such as Robin Hood than the strategist was supposed to be.
''Don't sell yourself short, master Xu Shu. We are counting on you and master Pang Tong in this battle,'' Mi Zhu spoke wisely, his appearance as the older brother of their lord clearly visible in his visage and clothing.
''Raise your head, master Xu Shu. We will defeat that army and get Lord Liu Shan back. Perhaps that might raise Lord Liu Bei's spirit.'' Zhou Cang commented lightheartedly. Where Xu Shu's appearance looked like a Robin Hood, Zhou Cang just looked like a confused smuggler.
A messenger came running, kneeled in front of them, and reported, ''The enemy is on the move!''
Pang Tong smiled. ''Than let us move us as well. Can't let them wait too long,'' He said as he walked towards the battlefield.
''Master Xu Shu, please command the troops. We will protect lord Liu Bei with everything we have,'' Mi Zhu spoke confidently.
''Very well. I will leave our lord's safety to you,'' Xu Shu responded. The young strategist turned to Zhou Cang as he commanded, ''Master Zhou Cang, please take control of the forces in the east and advance. Try to draw the enemy towards you. When you have done so, try to retreat as calmly as possible back to the canyons. '' He shifted to Sun Quian and Jian Yong and ordered, ''Master Quian, master Yong, please make certain the enemy can't reach the caves. Push hard and try to secure the west south best. Take the archers division with you. That base must not fall.''
A simple strategy to pull the enemy apart. Spread the lines thin as you pull the battlefield long, and strike the center when the enemy is distracted on the wings. Although Xu Shu was the strategist who had made strategy, he would say it was Pang Tong who had created it. He had a lack of confidence, even though his wisdom and knowledge were already on par with his senior.
~Canyon path in the east.~
''Master Zhou Cang, please slow down! We can't keep up with you!'' Zhou Cang's elite forces shouted from their horses. Even on their horses with the best of their horseback ability, they could not keep up with the lighting fast Zhou Cang. It is said that nobody could keep up with Zhou Cang's natural ability to run, except for the monstrous horse Red Hair.
It was only natural he was the first arriving in the base located just south of the canyon. Even in the devasting rays of the burning sun, his body could easily handle this task. Yet, it was also the reason he was not used to being an officer in command of a squadron. With agility that was unrivaled in the land, he worked better solo than together with a group.
As Zhou Cang was resting his legs and checking the surrounding battlefield from the safeties of the base's walls, his men rearranged the supplies and horses for a quick retreat. ''It is awfully quiet here.'' One of the officers commented as he gazed over the battlefield.
''We are just that fast. We are elite officers of master Zhou Cang! We will not lose in speed!'' Another officer exclaimed triumphantly.
A group of soldiers appeared before Zhou Cang, bowed politely, and reported, ''We are ready, master Zhou. Give us the order.''
~Cave entrance to the west.~
Water dripped from the cave ceiling as the two officers Sun Quian and Jian Yong kept the soldiers in check. Some of their underlings were worried about the uprising legend of Lord Brian Millers, others were seeking blood for the fact former allies dared to attack them. Especially against the good-of-nothing son of Liu Bei, Liu Chan. ''How does he dare to fight against his own father?'' could be heard throughout the cave.
But all that emotion was just to hide the uncertainty of their situation. Uncertainty because their lord did not act as he usually would. Liu Bei didn't trust anyone, and instead of fighting for virtue, the fear of the turmoil of war consumed him. Even his sworn brothers, Zhang Fei and Guan Yu, could not help him. When even former allies turned their blades towards them, their despair could only reach so much.
If you took these emotions into account, it was no wonder that when Liu Chan took the advance into the cave, nobody knew what to do. The good-for-nothing son who was always excluded from political affairs and important issues suddenly rode towards them, confident like never before.
Before Sun Quian and Jian Yong could snap out of their confused state and force a command out of their mouths, they were surrounded by the mounted archers of Liang. As Liu Bei's soldiers doubted what to do, Liu Chan spoke with a kind and clear voice. ''Please drop your weapons and surrender. If you attack us, only certain death awaits. If you surrender, we will treat you with virtue.''
Although Zhao Yun and Xing Cai were alongside the former lord acting as bodyguards, it was Liu Chan's gaze that held the grip of the enemy. Kind, but determined at the same time. This was no longer the Liu Chan they once knew.
Sun Quian sighed before he commanded, ''Drop your weapons! We have lost this battle.'' He turned to Liu Chan as he asked, ''We have surrendered as you asked. Can you promise me to treat my men with care?''
Liu Chan smiled. ''Of course,'' He answered as his men guided the prisoners away.
Sun Quian looked momentarily perplexed before he smiled as well. ''You have grown much, Lord Liu Chan.''
~Abondened town.~
A simple plan. Zhou Cang and his men would shout insults towards the enemy camp, forcing officers to go after them in the east and ambush them in the canyon. Meanwhile, Sun Quian and Jian Yong would keep the advancing forces at bay in the west. If they were defeated - which was very likely if Pang Tong had to believe the stories of Brian Miller - a secondary squad would hold the advancing forces at bay in the caves.
With the enemy's formation spread out, Pang Tong would advance from the abandoned town to the enemy main camp and burn it to smithereens. With the morale collapsing, the enemy would succumb under their might.
Despite Sun Quian and Jian Yong's defeat, Xu Shu's plan was still in motion. The formation was spread apart and the main camp was vulnerable. At least, that was what Pang Tong believed.
However, when he and his elite soldiers moved to the main camp as stealthy as they could, an unexpected opponent awaited them in a well-laid ambush. ''Pang Tong.'' A familiar calm voice echoed through the silence.
''Ah, Zhuge Liang. I should have known you were waiting for me,'' Pang Tong responded cautiously. A complicated expression was hidden behind his coverage. That was for one simple matter. Despite the ambush, there was no army advantage for either side. Also, Zhuge Liang was a beast of a strategist, but not a fighter. Why then, did he look so confident? ''Are you really here to fight me?''
''No. That honor belongs to me,'' An unknown voice answered. It was at that moment Pang Tong understood everything. The reason why Xu Shu's tactic had worked so far. The reason the opponent was so easily drawn to the wings. It was because of the man who was currently in front of him.
A normal warrior, not particularly tall or small. Black hair, and quite the unusual appearance. But the pressure that was radiating from his eyes and stance was without a doubt the reason the soldiers entrusted the main camp to him so much. ''I see. You're the big one, aren't ya?''
''Yes, I am. And you must be the Fledgling Phoenix,'' The enemy commander answered, surprisingly calm.
''You heard about me? How terrifying,'' Pang Tong responded. His neck hair was raised, and cold sweat dripped down his back. As he held his shaman rod in front of him, Pang Tong asked, ''Are you certain you want to do this? It's considered wrong, you know.''
''I fear I have to. I wish other options were possible, but both you and I know something has to change to this land,'' The enemy commander responded in kind.
''This land is not for you,'' Pang Tong exclaimed as he prepared himself for a battle that was about to come. He was pretty certain that he couldn't succeed to win here, but if he could just buy enough time for the secondary squad to burn the camp on fire and Xu Shu to win in the east, the battle wasn't lost yet.
It was that moment a messager dropped on one knee just near the enemy commander and reported, ''Fa Zhang has successfully captured the infiltrating unit. Further, Sima Yi and Jiang Wei have successfully thwarted the ambush in the east. They are breaking through the enemy main base as we speak.''
Hearing that, Pang Tong's will to fight dropped like a sack of potatoes. His men felt the same way as some of them were not sure to suicide their way through the enemy, or drop their weapon and hoped for mercy. Before Pang Tong knew what he could do for himself, an unexpected question came from the enemy commander. ''Pang Tong. The land is in turmoil. Diseases are running wild, and people are dying from starvation, war, or just trying to survive in their daily lives. You are known as a genius and an individual with unnatural talent. Yet, you remain here and do nothing to solve the problems in this land. Why? Why are you still serving Liu Bei? Why is this land not enjoying his virtue Liu Bei so ideally stands by?''
For a simple man, those words could have been the total belittlement of their lord, as could be seen by Pang Tong's underlings who looked at Brian with intense hate. But as the enemy commander had said, Pang Tong was talented enough to be not called a simple man. He had heard the underlying tone. A tone that sounded furious for some reason, but also confused and wished for an explanation. A tone that indicated why he had to come and clean the mess Liu Bei left behind. It was then he realized.
Every bit of fear suddenly left his body. Pang Tong let out a sigh as he dropped his shamen rod, and sat down on the desert sand. ''You are not really here to hurt our lord, are you?''
The enemy commander shook his head as he answered, ''No, I am not. I don't care about this land either. The only reason I came here is that I heard Liu Bei was acting weird. For the sake of the future of this land, and for the future of my soldiers, I have to knock some sense back into him.''
The soldiers who just had stared at Brian with intense hate all had confused expressions on their faces. He is not our enemy? Then why are we fighting here? Most of them thought. Pang Tong continued. ''And you think you can knock some sense into him? Many before you have tried, you know.''
''I am pretty positive I can,'' Brian answered with a grin as he stared at the side, where Zhuge Liang, Lu Su, and the messenger stood that told them about Sima Yi and Jiang Wei's collaboration.
Pang Tong smiled under his coverage and raised his arms in a playful surrender. ''Well, it looks like I am better off with you. At least, if you accept that is.''
''Welcome to my army, Master Pang Tong. I will officially recruit you after this battle has ended, alongside your subordinates of course,'' Brian added. That was enough for the other soldiers to drop their weapons and surrender as well.
~Great Temple. Enemy main camp.~
A single man was kneeling on one knee, his two blades laying far out of his reach. It was a handsome man, with dark-brown features and a goatee. His green helmet had been kicked off, thus revealing his brown messy hair. But even though he had the looks, his eyes were worse than Cao Cao's gaze had been. They were emotionless as if he was in a deep depression. Like he had given up on his life already.
*Pats!*
It was a face worth slapping and that was precisely what happened. Not a confidence talk or a shout. Just one open strike straight on the cheek, a fierce red color displayed on Liu Bei's face as he looked both confused and terrified.
Brian shook his hand to get the tingling out. ''That was for your son for being such a worthless father,'' he mumbled as he glanced to Liu Chan. His hand shot forward again but stopped just in front of Liu Bei's face as Liu Bei fully had his eyes closed for the impact. ''Open your eyes.''
Liu Bei opened his eyes to that command. *Pats!* A single open hand struck his cheek once again, coloring a burning red. ''That was for your lack of resolve to bring virtue to the land,'' Brian explained as he shook his hand again. ''Open your eyes,'' he commanded again.
*Pats!* a slap on the other cheek turned both sides red. Liu Bei fell back on his butt, his hands going towards his swollen face. A second later, and he was pushed against the railing of the temple, furious eyes starring him straight into his soul. Two armies, one captured and one victorious watched as the two leaders stood in front of each other. ''Is that all the pain you can take, Liu Bei?! Three slaps to the cheeks to make you move cowardly back! Not asking me to stop or fight to take responsibility, but to cower back. If three slaps were all it takes to make your ass stagger, how much pain must have your followers had before they left you?!''
Liu Bei's eyes shot open, and he momentarily glanced at the side, where both allies and former allies stood. ''How much longer are you going to stand by and see your friends and followers in pain?'' Brian whispered before he pushed Liu Bei harder against the wood and shouted, ''How much longer are you to cower as if you are the victim?! Take responsibility for your mistakes and help me bring real virtue to this land!''
Liu Bei's eyes shot open, but just before he ask any question, Brian stopped pushing him against the wood. *Pats!* Another slap followed, now both cheeks turning equally red. ''That one was for not holding onto your oath to your sworn brothers.'' Unlike before, Liu Bei's expression finally had some emotion in it. He wondered how Brian knew that, but another slap followed before he got an answer. ''That is for abandoning your allies in their time of need. Had enough yet?''
Liu Bei's face looked swollen, but his gaze had changed. ''No. I have done wrong more than this. I will bear the responsibility.''
A hand moved as swiftly as a raging wind, but just before it could strike Liu Bei's face, it stopped. ''Good. Then bear that responsibility under me,'' Brian offered, finally some sort of smile appearing on his face. ''Join me, and let us work together to make this a land of virtue.''
That day, father and son were finally united under the same banner.
The news about the victory against Liu Bei reached far and wide, and the northeast border near Bei Di could finally let out a breath of relief. The north of ancient china was finally united under a single banner.
With the north safe and under a united rule, Brian ordered several of his more political and economically talented men to make the area in the north livable again. Sun Quan's men also received the orders to make new trading posts alongside the yellow river to the north. But Brian himself could not oversee those tasks. He was no emperor, nor a king. He was mostly a general, meaning as long as war raged on, he had a task to complete first.
Two days after arriving in Luo Yang, Brian immediately continued his campaign to the east. There was no time to waste, as Guo Si and Fan Chou, two of Dong Zhou's former generals, were pushing into their territory. The moment they heard Brian had mobilized his army towards them, they retreated to their main base just past Hu Lao and Shishou gate. They thought the two of the sturdiest walls of ancient china should be enough to stop the lord of Jin Cheng from advancing. They couldn't be more wrong.
''Take them away. Let them work as prisoners before I return. I will judge them when I return,'' Brian commanded to the soldiers standing behind Guo Si and Fan Chou.
''Stop, wait!? We can be of use to you!'' Guo Si pleaded.
''Yes! We know you are looking for talented people! Let us help you as well!'' Fan Chou added.
Brian glared towards his two prisoners. ''Why would you want to serve me now? There has been plenty of time for you to join my side, yet you continued to cause trouble here. What value do you have for me?''
''If we knew you were this strong, we would have joined you from the start! How were we supposed to know you were so strong?!'' Guo Si retorted frightfully.
''I mean, seriously! It was as if I was facing Lu Bu himself again!'' Fan Chou claimed.
Brian's glare slightly lessened. ''You have faced Lu Bu?''
''Yes, sir. We were traveling with Lord Dong Zhou to find the Emperor when that vile beast ambushed us. We could escape, but Lord Dong Zhou is forced to serve under him,'' Guo Si answered regretfully.
''There was nothing we could do. Li Jue and Zhang Ji stayed behind and do provide us with intel from time to time, but that monster shows no weaknesses,'' Fan Chou spilled out.
''Shut up, Chou!'' Guo Si barked. ''That was supposed to be our best card up our sleeve!''
''Fuck that! I am not going to prison!'' Fan Chou thundered back before he shifted his gaze once again to Brian and bowed deeply. ''I will be a trustworthy asset for you if you let me serve you, Lord Brian Miller. If you don't trust me, but surveillance under me and let me work under you in a place you do not have to worry about me.''
Brian gave him a stern look before he commanded, ''Zhuge Liang. Sima Yi.''
''Ýes, my lord?'' the Sleeping Dragon responded.
''Yes, lord Brian?'' Sima Yi asked.
''When we return to Jin Cheng, find out if Fan Chou has a talent that can be of service to us. Meanwhile, I will leave him under Sun Tai's supervision in Chang'an. He will help us broaden the supply line. If he dares to betray me, you will be executed on the spot. Do you understand, Fan Chou?''
''Yes, I do,'' Fan Chou complied.
''You damm traitor!'' Guo Si shouted threateningly.
''Silence. You tried to hide information for me. You have until I return to change your mindset, or I will execute you without a second thought. Xin Pi, bring him to the prison of Luo Yang. Tell Zheng Wen he doesn't have to hold back.''
''Yes, my lord.'' The older officer replied before he ordered his men to take the prisoners away.
But even though Brian had claimed a victory over the former generals of the fearsome Dong Zhou and had sent them away, his worries were far from over. In his menu, the next battle was Guan Du, and according to the rumors, some dangerous opponents were waiting for him. Li Dian and Yue jin were waiting for him, and from the games, he knew not to underestimate them. However, more worrying than them were the other famous warriors. Cao Hong, Yu Jin, Pang De and lastly, Wang Yi.
Pang De was just a warrior, and although Xiahou Dun had told him about the mighty warrior, there was no doubt on Brian's mind he would win against him. Pang De and Yu Jin were men of honor. When he would defeat both officers and ask them to join his side, there was a big chance of succession. But Wang Yi was a different matter entirely. She has a personal vendetta with one of Brian's officers. Ma Chao had killed her family during the war, and she was not stopping before she got her vengeance.
There were other things in on his mind, and it became much to bear. Although it had been a while, he decided now was a good time for a simple late-night walk. His main camp lay between Hu Lao gate and Shishui gate, and his remaining forces were stationed forward towards the fortresses near Rong Yong. Thus, even if he would walk for an hour in one direction, he would still be guarded by his own people.
Despite that, there was one woman who decided it was better to walk alongside him than to let him go alone. ''You really didn't have to walk with,'' Brian muttered as they had strolled towards Shishui gate.
''I disagree. I feel you have been worrying about something ever since you went to the north. The fact you went on a walk only confirms something heavy is on your mind,'' Lian Shi explained quite proudly. Why are cute, sexy, and smart as well? That sounds almost too perfect, Brian thought as he stared at her big smile while she was holding his arm. ''So, what's on your mind, darling?''
Realizing he really could not escape Lian Shi's sharpness, he sighed. ''Promise me you won't get mad for worrying about this.''
''I will try,'' She smilingly responded.
Brian let out a deep breath and started. ''There was once a man who lived in a land, far, far away. He had the gift to see different futures, but he did not know which future he was part of. Every step he took was one of caution and uncertainty since he knew allies had been enemies in other futures. He knew what they were capable of, thus he could not trust them. Yet, he could not tell them either, for nobody would look at him the same if they knew his abilities. Thus, he felt alone and feared with every step he took. He did not last long.''
Lian Shi listened carefully to the made-up story that Brian had thought about just to explain his situation. Seeing her lover's face so deep in thought, she felt this was the first time he was truly honest with her about that one thing that she could not uncover from him. Eventually, she asked in a whisper, ''What does this story have to do with you?'' She did not let go of his arm, and her eyes illustrated she was sincerely concerned.
Brian hesitated a very long time. However, eventually, he asked, ''What if I had a power that knew one of those futures?''
''Then you would be even more special than I originally thought,'' Lianshi joked with a smile. A bit curious, she asked, ''What do our lives look like in that future?''
''You really want to know?'' Brian asked.
''Yeah. I would be too curious about it if I didn't know. I like to know if this future is better or not,'' Lianshi answered almost immediately, not completely convinced her lover was speaking the truth.
Brian looked saddened as he explained, ''I am not in that world. The land is divided into fractions, but unlike now, Shu, Wu, and Wei are united under their respective banner. The land is in turmoil for a long time until Sima Yi and his family takes over control.'' Lianshi looked at him questionably. Brian didn't need special powers to know what she was thinking. ''You fought alongside Master Sun Quan's side as his bodyguard and his concubine,'' he confessed.
Lianshi looked a bit in thought. ''Me and lord Sun Quan?'' She chuckled as she added, ''I guess I can see that happening.''
She noticed Brian's uncomfortableness, thus she hugged his arm tighter as she whispered, ''But that is only if you are not there to cling onto. I have no regrets about being your lover.''
It was that time, Brian truly smiled. Not the smile he usually showed when still something was missing, but a truly sincere smile that held nothing back. Realizing the power he spoke about must have been sort of true, Lianshi's mind went into overdrive. After thirty seconds, her eyes shot open. She knew why he had been acting weird. ''So in this other future, does my lady have a man as well?'' She asked to confirm her suspicion.
Brian sighed as he answered, ''Yeah. She married Liu Bei.''
''I see. So that is why you were so uneasy when you went to the north and did not take my lady with you,'' Lianshi commented. ''You were afraid another man would conquer her heart.''
Brian scratched the back of his head in shame. ''Yeah... I know it is selfish of me to think that way since I also have multiple concubines, but I really love...?'' The rest of his words were silenced by a kiss. Lian Shi's lips touched his. Is she mad? A random worry still wondered, but the moment they disconnected, that thought vanished into thin air.
''Thank you for telling me what you worry about. I am glad you entrusting me with your vulnerability. It means you truly love me,'' she explained as she held him in an embrace. She leaned to his ear as she whispered, ''Perhaps it is better to return to our tent now.''
She got turned on by my vulnerability? Women are weird... Brian concluded as he responded, ''That sounds like a very good idea.'' The night was long, but certainly not lonely.
Guan Du. An enormous green plain that was perfectly divided into two by the Yellow River. Two castles were standing right in the middle of the green plains, their long and high walls looking as sturdy as ever. Baima and Yanjin castle. Further in the back, the giant fortress Guan du castle stood.
In the original battle, Yuan Shao fought Cao Cao here, marking a changing point for Wei. But even though Cao Cao was currently within his ranks, the former lord of Wei told Brian he had never been in Guan Du before.
Brian couldn't rack his brain over it too much for Cao Cao's former allies were, as expected, very offensive from the get-go.
''Take the enemy commander's head! Ma Chao's head will be mine!'' A female officer in blue-gray gear commanded her elite soldiers with a terrifying smile on her face.
''Yes, ma'am!'' her soldiers answered in unison as they rode behind her on their horses.
''Hold the line! Stand your ground!'' Xing Cai and Cao Ren simultaneously commanded as their soldiers clashed with those of Wang Yi's. The female officer herself jumped over the line and assaulted the next group with her two trishulas. Before she could do much damage though, she had to jump back to dodge a giant axe from bisecting her. ''That is as far as you go, Wang Yi. I will protect both lord Brian Miller and Lord Cao Cao with my life!''
''Dian Wei. As expected, you are as formidable as ever. But even you will not be enough to deny my vengeance!'' Wang Yi exclaimed as she ran forward. She dodged his axe at the last second, turned her body around in a forward spin, and aimed her trishulas at the bodyguard's neck. *Clang!*
''Do you think I'll allow you any further from my lord! Be ready to face the dragon of Chang Shan!'' Zhao Yun shouted as he blocked both daggers with his spear, and pushed Wang Yi away.
''Do not resist me! Revenge is mine!'' She shouted angrily before she barely dodged an arrow coming from on top of Baima castle's walls.
''Your aim is lacking, young fool,'' Huang Zhong commented as he shot an arrow towards Wang Yi, only for the female officer to dodge it.
''Right back at you, old man.'' Xiahou Yuan retorted as he shot an arrow in one of the enemy soldiers' shoulders.
Seeing her position becoming a disadvantage, Wang Yi ran back, jumped over the group of fighting soldiers again, and commanded, ''Retreat! We have to be ready for the next step!''
Her soldiers did just that, riding away while taking their wounded with them in a rapid retreat. ''Do not give chase! They have a plan up their sleeves, so we will be playing right in their hands!'' Sima Yi commanded from the walls of Baima.
''So what happens now?'' Brian asked as he stared at the retreating enemy just beside Sima Yi on Baima's walls.
''We will until our plan unfolds. In the meantime, we'll have to increase our defense in the north.'' Sima Yi answered.
''Yue Jin?'' Brian asked.
''Most certainly,'' Sima Yi acknowledged. ''Yue Jin will be the vanguard alongside Wang Yi. When both vanguards are defeated and retreating, Yu Jin and Cao Hong will await the chasing forces halfway in an ambush. It is so predictable.''
''An ambush loses its effectiveness when you see it coming,'' Lu Su commented.
''Indeed. We only have to wait until our preparations are complete,'' Sima Yi said. ''I am not certain if those who you chose are competent enough for the job though, lord Brian.''
Brian let out a smile as he stood up from the walls. ''Have a little more fate in my choice, Master Sima Yi. He might be a brute, but he is a reliable brute.''
Just as Sima Yi wanted to retort, a messenger appeared before them. ''We are being attacked in the north! The enemy forces are led by Yue Jin!'' At the same time, a light was visible from the other side of the river. "It seems they are more competent than I give them credit for.''
''They certainly are,'' Brian responded as he grabbed his halberd. ''Time to set the second step of our plan into motion.''
~North of Baima.~
''Fall back!'' an officer in blue shouted. In his hands, he held two dual hooks. He had short brown hair, and around his face, he wore some sort of armor. It reminded Brian a bit of a datemono, but whatever it had a function or not, had to be seen.
''We are giving chase! Do not let them escape!'' Brian shouted as he rode forward on Shadow Runner.
''We will be running straight into their ambush if we continue like this!'' Xu Shu announced as he rode alongside his new lord.
''Good! That should complete our plan!'' Brian responded as he continued the goose chase to Yue Jin and his forces.
Just as they passed Yanjin castle, the gates of the north opened, and a whole new force introduced themselves on the battlefield.
''Charge the enemy! Claim the enemy commander's head!'' Cao Hong shouted.
''Alert unit, now!'' Xu Shu commanded as he turned around immediately and met the enemy forces head-on.
Three soldiers with trumpets hanging around their belts blew their trumpets at that moment, informing the ambush unit it was their time to shine. ''What was that?'' Yue Jin asked shockingly.
However, he was too late to understand the reason for the alert. ''Forward...! Destroy...Enemy!'' Wei Yan shouted as he and a large group of soldiers charged towards Yue Jin and his men from the north.
''What?! An ambush?! When did that happen?'' Yue Jin voiced worriedly as Wei Yan's forces slammed into his from the side.
''Yue Jin!'' Cao Hong shouted as he tried to push through, only to be brutally pushed back.
''You don't have the privilege to worry about others in front of me. My name is Brian Miller! Face me, Cao Hong!'' Brian roared, although in fact he barely felt like fighting. However, thanks to the words he just spoke, he sounded like he rallied, meaning the morale of his men continued to skyrocket.
The young warrior looked extremely worried and looked around in desperation for any possible solution. Realizing he was in the most extreme unfortunate situation with no way out, there was only one thing left to say. ''Shit.''
As Xu Shu and Brain decimated the ambush forces, Yue Jin was having a hard time defending against Wei Yan's assault. ''I am starting to get fatigued...at this rate...''
''Enemy...Impressive...But...This...Battle...Mine!'' Wei Yan shouted as he slammed through Yue Jin's defensive cross, and slammed him on the ground. With the Voulge aimed at him, Yue Jin could do nothing but surrender. ''I am sorry, Dian. It seems I have failed...''
''You wouldn't be the first,'' Brian said as his soldiers tied the enemy up. Cao Hong was unconsciously lying on the grass. ''Don't worry, I didn't kill him. It would be a waste to kill someone who has talent in a time of need.''
Yue Jin looked dumbfounded, only to shock out of his state during the following command from his enemy. ''Tie them up and bring them to our main camp. Treat their wounds with care.'' He pointed his halberd alongside Wei Yan's directly at Yue Jin as he asked, ''Are you going to make this difficult, or are you willing to surrender to us?''
Yue Jin could only submit. ''Very well. It seems I have no other choice but to surrender,'' He answered as he dropped his hooks, and held his hands up in surrender.
As he was tied up and guided back to the main camp, Brian let out a sigh and put his hand on Wei Yan's shoulder. ''Well done, Wei Yan. I knew I could count on you.''
Wei Yan showed a big grin. ''You...happy...me...happy. We...attack...with...you.''
''That we shall. It is time for the next step in our strategy.''
''I told you I had a bad feeling about this!'' Li Dian exclaimed worriedly to his strategists.
''Yes, this is quite the predicament. The enemy has foreseen both of the ambushes and has given us no choice but to attack. I am not sure how long we can hold out in a battle of resources.'' Xu You said worriedly.
''As expected, this will be a battle against the clock,'' Xun Yu added worriedly.
''I guess we have no choice then. With Cao Hong, Yu Jin, and Yue Jin captured, we will just have to use everything in our power to free them and destroy the enemy.'' An enormous officer holding a large mace concluded.
The man was a warrior in the truest sense. From the armor around his body to the manly mustache. His stance, and his aura. There was no mistake this was a man willing to gain honor by defeating his enemies or die trying for his lord.
''Master Pang De... Very well, we'll mobilize all the units and attack head-on. Please lead us to victory.'' Xun You said.
Wang Yi was listening to the conversation from the side, but she never paid attention to the words. Her eyes were fully focused on the enemy castle in the front. There was only hatred in her eyes and heart.
A little while later, the entire Wei army charged forward from Guan Du castle. The calvary of Pang De was at the front, the warrior in blue charging head-first into battle. Alongside him, Wang Yi rode forward, her men trying to keep up with her almost suicidal charge. Perhaps it was a suicidal charge, but most of her men still want to come out alive. Wang Yi didn't care about that, but only about killing the man that had taken everything from her.
On the wall of Baima, Brian stared at the enemy charge on his map. ''As expected, they are charging in together.''
''Yes, all according to plan. It is easy to predict an enemy that has been driven into a corner.'' Sima Yi commented. ''However, a suicidal charge will come together with soldiers who are willing to die. We'll need you on the frontline, lord Brian.''
''Yes, I am aware,'' Brian responded as he once again stood up. He turned to his officers as he commanded, ''Xing Cai, Cao Ren, I need a defensive line. They will charge in with their cavalry, so do not give an inch. Horses are not stupid enough to ride to their death. Xiahou Yuan, Huang Zhong, prepare the archers. Pressuring them into surrender. Lu Su, ignite the signal. Wei Yan and Xu Shu will attack the enemy from behind. Dian Wei, Zhao Yun, hold back Pang De and Li Dian. You have your orders. Proceed.''
''Yes, sir!''
''What about us, Lord Brian?'' Ma Chao asked standing alongside Cao Cao and Ma Dai. The two no longer looked cautiously towards each other.
''Your roles will come after the battle. Inspire the men who fight on the frontline in the meantime,'' Brian ordered.
Sometime later, the two armies faced each other once again between Baima and Yuejin castle. However, although the battle was fierce, the outcome was never in doubt. It was a desperate all-out attack versus a well-formed defense and an overwhelming ambush. Yet, the officers did not give.
''Out of my way! I will not stop until I have Ma Chao's head!'' Wang Yi demanded furiously as she held her trishulas in front of her.
''I can't do that, Wang Yi. I demand you to surrender,'' Brian demanded in kind.
Wang Yi ground her teeth in anger and annoyance. ''You expect to give up my reason for living? You are a cruel, evil man.''
Brian sighed. ''That, I am. But even if I am, I will demand your surrender!''
''Never!'' Wang Yi shouted as she rushed forward. *Clang!* the first clash of many followed. One halberd vs two trishulas. Agility vs power. Only one could win. ''Got you now!'' She shouted as she duck the diagonal slash, and prepared to strike his neck. He dodged it, but it scraped his shoulder just a little. He dropped his halberd in response.
''You will not get away!'' She shouted as she continued her assault. Her trishulas dove forward towards his chest.
''...!''
They stopped just in front of him. Wang Yi was gasping for air as she clutched her stomach, a round hole visible in her armor. Just before her stomach was a tonfa and Brian's left arm. Before she could recover from the breathtaking strike, another tonfa strike struck her face, instantly knocking her out on the green battlefield. ''I am sorry,'' Brian apologized before shifting his attention to his men. ''Constrict her, and bring her to separate prison. Have Lianshi and Yue Ying guard her.''
''Yes, sir!'' His soldiers responded as they tied her up, and pulled her away.
With the victory close at hand, Brian headed towards the next battle. It was not long when he saw Dian Wei and Pang De in battle.
''Master Dian Wei. You are as strong as ever. It is a privilege to fight you,'' Pang De spoke. Despite his armor being broken in several places, and scars appearing all over his body, he still stood tall.
''Likewise, master Pang De. Looks like we're fairly evenly matched.'' Dian Wei spoke with a grin, fresh cuts all over his body as well. ''However, even if you can get past me, you still have to get past my lord.''
''Dian Wei, at ease. I will take over from here,'' Brian commanded as he held his Soul Crusher in front of him.
''Yes, sir!'' Dian Wei answered as he stepped back. Pang De stared towards the new warrior in front of him. ''It seems lady Wang Yi has failed.''
''That she did,'' Brian responded. ''You do not mind that I come and finish you while you were in an intense battle just prior?'' he asked.
Pang De smiled. ''You had your battle. I had mine. We are equal on this battlefield.'' He brought his mace at his side as he added, ''There are no words left between us. Only actions needed to be taken.''
''Very well.''
Wang Yi had been the agility type, that would dodge and strike fast quickly to defeat and kill her opponent. To defeat her, Brian had to catch her by surprise and incapacity her with two heavy quick strikes. Pang De was different.
His strikes were heavy, and although slower than Wang Yi, his strength made up for it in spares. *Clang!* *Clang!* The echoes of iron clashed far and wide. Two heavily armored soldiers clashing with each other. Halberd vs mace. In that spectacle of power, only one could be the victory.
Pang De lay unconsciously on the ground. There were small puddles of blood around his body. Not enough to mark his death, but enough to show this battle had not been one for the weaker heart.
''Urgh...'' Brian uttered a sound of pain as he dropped his halberd.
''My lord! Are you alright?'' Dian Wei asked worriedly.
Brian palpate his right shoulder joint with two fingers before he walked to the nearest tree, and slammed his shoulder into it. ''Ahh! Fuck, that hurts!'' He shouted as he heard the pop, indicating his shoulder was back in its place
''My lord!''
''I am fine! I am fine...'' He responded to calm Dian Wei and his other loyal soldiers down. Damm, I underestimated him... To think those hits would do so much damage. I need this battle to end quickly.
Thankfully, his wish was granted soon after that duel. Against the overwhelming defense and rear assault, Li Dian could do nothing but surrender.
''You idiot! Why are you always fighting those dangerous duels yourself!'' Shangxiang scolded him when he returned to the main camp inside Baima castle. ''Why are you still trying to prove yourself? We have already acknowledged you as our lord! Stop putting yourself in harm's way.''
''I am sorry. I can't just sit still though and see how my soldiers are fighting for me. What kind of a leader would I be if I did that?'' Brian tried to plead.
''A wise one, you idiot!'' Shangxiang retorted as started to shove him in his chest like a small child.
''I am sorry. I am okay though, so you don't need to worry about me now.'' Brian tried to reassure, but not everyone agreed to it.
''I will be the judge of that, ''One of Hua Tan's students responded as he pulled Brian along to the doctor's tent. Not long after, Brian came out with a cold pack around his shoulder.
''You are wounded after all! Is it bad? Can I do something?'' Shangxiang asked worriedly.
''Don't worry. It is just a little swollen. I got my shoulder smashed in the fight.'' Brian tried to explain, only for another shoving.
''Idiot! Idiot, idiot!''
''Calm down. my lady. I am sure lord Brian would properly apologize tonight,'' A sudden voice reassured Shiangxiang. It was Lianshi.
''Lianshi, what are you doing here? Weren't you guarding the female prisons?'' Brian asked, a slight worry on his face.
''Rest assured. Lady Ying, Lady Chunhae, and Lady Cai have taken it upon themselves to guard them in my absence,'' Lianshi answered smilingly. Why do I have the feeling I should save Wang Yi? Brian worried for a moment.
''Let us get something to eat! I am starving after today!'' Shangxiang suggested happily.
''That sounds like a very good idea,'' Brian responded with a smile.
His soldiers were already waiting at the campfire. ''Lord Brian, good to see you are doing okay!'' One of the soldiers casually shoutingly greeted despite the difference in rank. Normally, you could get beheaded for talking to a superior like that. Brian knew the soldiers had the utmost respect for him, thus he had no problem with it. ''You are doing okay, right?''
''Yeah, nothing serious. I am starving though.'' Brian answered. The soldiers around the campfire let out a big sigh of relief.
''Thank god. We wouldn't know what to do without you,'' Another soldier commented in relief.
Brian thought the soldier had to be exaggerating. It was not until another soldier started a story, he began to believe that emotion was not only true but shared. ''You know. I still remember the advice you gave us when we marched towards Long You. About the free riches of this world and striving for more in life. I took your advice at heart and joined Sima Yi's class. He is a rough teacher, but I learned a lot from his lessons so far. I might even start a business when peace has returned to the land.''
''Still no luck at the ladies, ha?'' Another soldier joked with a grin.
''I will get there eventually. I want to focus on other stuff first when I retire,'' the first soldier answered again. Don't trigger a red flag, please.
The rest of the dining went by in a familiar way. Getting fed by Lianshi and Shanxiang gave some envious stares, but they couldn't really care. But the night was far from over. There was one task left to do.
Accompanied by Cao Cao, Ma Chao, and his bodyguards, Brian made his way towards the prison. The prison was just an open field in Yanjin castle where Li Dian's surviving army was sitting.
Several eyes shot open at the sight of the former lord and his former enemy walking alongside each other. More importantly, at how different his expression looked. Cao Cao looked as serious as ever, but there was an emotion in his eyes that they had long forgotten: the emotion of ambition.
The officers sat together in the middle. None of them said a word when their visitors approached them and sat down in front of them.
''How are your wounds, Pang De?'' Brian started as his eyes focussed on the warrior in front of him.
Pang De looked undisturbed by the bandages covering the various wounds as he answered, ''They are a reminder that I still have much to learn as a warrior. How is your shoulder, Lord Brian?''
Brian grinned. ''Ít is a reminder that I still need more power if I wish to realize my ambition.''
''What might that ambition be?'' Pang De asked. He was slightly curious about it, but the main reason he asked was the different gazes that lay the three officers in front of them. Confused, curious, uncertain. Those were the emotions he could read on those expressions.
''To end the turmoil of the land. To make this a land we can live in without having to worry about tomorrow. To make a land where a poor bandit can become a man of society. A land where the common architect has the ability to change a city, and the common soldier dreams further than the next battle. That's my ambition.''
''However, I can't reach this ambition of mine alone. In the past year, I fought warriors, both in war and by law, who became valuable soldiers and officers under me. Together, we have united the north and northeast together and increased the wellbeing of the population. I couldn't come here if it wasn't for them.'' He turned his eyes from Pang De to Yue Jin, Yu Jin, Cao Hong, and eventually, Li Dian. ''Officers of Wei. Soldiers of Wei. Join me to unite this land and make my ambition a reality!''
Pang De bowed his head as he answered, ''You are everything I have envisioned in a leader. Allow me to do your bidding''
''I've decided. From this day on, I will serve you.'' Yue Jin answered humbly.
''As the loser of this battle, my life is yours to do as you see fit,'' Yu Jin answered humbly.
''You sure are strong. If you say you want me to join you, I'll join.'' Li Dian answered without bowing, unlike the other officers. Is it because I didn't fight him personally? Brian wondered but never voiced.
''You leave me not much of a choice. Of course, I will join you,'' Cao Hong answered happily but still polite as he bowed. His bald head was in full display.
It did not last long for the other soldiers to bow to him as well. Again, Brian had converted the enemy into new allies. However, there was one person left he had to convince.
It was late in the evening. The resources from Guan Du castle had been taken and the former enemy of Wei was now mixed with Brian's army in Baima castle. The corpses of more than a hundred soldiers were put together and burned in an honorable, but sufficient cremation. But Brian had not much time to focus on it. There was still one person left to convince.
Ma Chao had been a man driven by vengeance, speaking of only justice when it was suitable for him. If Ma Chao had been the lava, Wang Yi was the rest of the eruption.
Inside Baima castle, there was one more prison located. A female prison with one prisoner. It used to be a training field for the soldiers of Yuan Shao, but it had long been deserted to be useful for such a practice.
As Brian entered the training field, he saw Wang Yi sitting in the middle, her eyes focused on him. Zhang Chunhae, Yue Ying, and Xing Cai were there as well, their eyes burning into the sole prisoner. By the few scars on Wang Yi's face, Brian could deduce she wasn't a very willing prisoner.
As he stepped forward, she made a small move. It was insignificant as if she wanted to readjust after a bad posture, but it was enough for the three guards to be alerted.
''At ease. Please leave us,'' Brian commanded.
There was not a single doubt in the women's expressions as they walked towards the exit his way. ''Be careful. She might be disarmed, but she is still aggressive.'' Yue Ying warned.
''If she is coming, immobilize her. She is not backing down from pain,'' Xing Cai warned, a little cut visible on her cheek.
''Be careful now, darling. It would be a waste to have you leave us so early,'' Zhang Chunhae commented with a smile before she left as well. She wouldn't attack me so quickly, right?
Brian had considered it. However, even he had to admire the guts of Wang Yi the moment her guards were gone as she jumped forward and charged Brian head-on. Five seconds later, she lay on her stomach, her face in the grass as Brian held her right arm behind her back. ''Enough! I came here to talk. Stand down!''
''Never! You'll have to kill me!'' Wang Yi shouted as she struggled to get free.
''That would be a shame. Just submit,'' Brian responded, a bit calmer now that he had her in a lock. ''I understand you want your vengeance, but you can't get your family back by holding onto that grief. I can't let you continue that destructive path. Please, just stand down.''
''You think you understand how it feels to lose your loved ones?! You have no idea how it feels! To bury your own children while the murderer gets away unscathed! To have your loved one taken away and stay left behind alone! You don't know how it feels to have your heart ripped out off, but still walk the earth. Let me go!''
Brian did not respond. She was immobilized, but he didn't try to hurt her. It was just enough to restrict her. But for some reason, he felt as if he didn't need to restrict her any longer. The moment he let go, she crawled away from him, turned around, and tried to attack him again.
A moment later, and she was laying on her back, her arms pinned down to the ground. ''They are not coming back, Wang Yi'' Brian whispered.
''Shut up! Let go off me!'' She shouted as she tried to headbutt him, and tried to kick him away.
''They are not coming back, Wang Yi. Submit,'' He repeated. His hold was strong, but again, not one to inflict damage.
Tears that were held back since the beginning of the turmoil began to form in Wang Yi's eyes, but she didn't admit to them yet as she angrily shouted, ''Shut up! Let me go!''
He did not let go nor did he respond. He just stared at her, as if he indeed understood that pain. Her struggling was fierce at first, but once she realized she could not escape, the tears finally appeared in her eyes. ''Kill me already! If I can't have my vengeance, my life is meaningless!''
''Then find new meaning in life, idiot!'' Brian shouted in her face, startling her. ''You think you are the only one who has lost something important?! Look around you! We are on the battlefield! Some of those soldiers have sons and wives too! Most of these soldiers are sons, leaving behind their mothers and fathers to fight! Are you saying their lives are over now as well if the person who fought for them dies! You tell me they have to kill another person before they can be happy! Is that what we fight for?!''
Tears fell on her face. They were from Brian. Despite those tears, he continued to stare at her determined. ''I have seen familiar faces die in front of me. People I knew, and people I spoke to. Fathers. Sons. They have died alongside and against me. Tell me, do I deserve vengeance as well? Can I kill all those people, because they hurt people I care about? Their families would retaliate and kill me. The people that see me as their leader would not let that slide. They would be angry as well. They would retaliate as a response. The cycle continues until there is nobody left to revenge on. The only thing that remains is corpses, and people that knew nothing but vengeance. Is that what we fight for?'' Brian whispered. ''Be stronger than that, Wang Yi. Submit your vengeance and live.''
It remained silent for a long time as the two continued to stare into each other's eyes. Brian was showing himself openly as tears continued to fall down, but he couldn't care about any of that. Wang Yi, on the other hand, tried to conceal her upcoming tears by looking away. Noticing that conflict, Brian let go of her arms and whispered, ''It is okay. Nobody is around to see it except me. Grief. Cry for what you have lost. It is okay.''
For the first time since the death of her family, someone else saw her crying and there was nothing she could do to hide it. The tears came out naturally, and even if she tried, she could no longer hold them back.
A little over fifteen minutes later, the guards had returned to see the two sitting in the field, opposite to each other. Unlike before, there was no tension or aggression palpable in the air. How impressive. To think you could even calm down a vengeance beast like her... how frightening. Zhang Chunhae thought with a hidden smile.
''Your strength has the power to make me comfortable...Please, allow me to join you. Perhaps I can find this new meaning in life alongside you,'' Wang Yi asked. All three guards stared dumbfounded by Wang Yi's humble request.
''Granted. I am glad to have you alongside me, Wang Yi,'' Brian responded with an honest smile.
Thus, the battle of Guan Du came to an end.
However, things were far from over.
In the south near Guan Du, in the city of Xuchang, Cao Pi was getting restless after hearing the news about Guan Du and Li Dian. Furthermore, hearing someone defeated not only the weakling Liu Bei but also the considerable mighty Wei officers at Guan Du, one man could only grin.
As the messenger was dismissed, still trembling by just the sheer pressure of his lord, that man stood up from his throne and walked to his balcony. As he watched over the courtyard of Xia Pi castle, a sinister strategist and a beautiful maiden behind, he said to himself, ''Brian Miller. Hm. Chen Gong!''
''Yes, Lord Lu Bu?'' The sinister strategist asked, although he already knew what his lord wanted.
''This man might be worth my time. Arrange me a battlefield with him!''
''As you command, my lord.''
A battle that would shake the land was about to start. Who would win between this clash of monsters? Only time could tell.
Author notes
Here is chapter 14. This one took quite some time, but we finally continued our game of ambition. Liu Bei and Li Dian have been defeated, and we are finally marching towards the true obstacle of the Han dynasty: Lu Bu himself.
In Dynasty Warriors 8, there are actually characters who have question marks as names. I decided to take the liberty and add something that is required for the future. Liu Bei is finally defeated as well and got smacked. A little talk with Lian Shi again, and the long-awaited recruitment of Pang De, Li Dian, Yue Jin, and Wang Yi. I gave the latter a bit more screentime because I thought that it was needed to make the story a bit more natural instead of, ''Oh, you defeat me. Let me join you.''
Anyway, that was it for now. I hope you have enjoyed it and until next time. Beyor out!