Disclaimer: I do not own Dynasty Warriors. Dynasty Warriors is owned by their respective owners.
As noisy as it was during the day, as equally silent it was in the evening. Dusk had settled across the land, bringing a moment of tranquility amid the turmoil and chaos. The sky was painted in hues of orange and purple, the last light of the day casting long shadows over the town. Walking through his town on that silent evening, Brian's eyes gazed over the changes of his property.
Gong Jo had proven to be a master of his specialty as, in only a week and a half, he had nearly completed the plaza. The task required a lot of manpower, and a large portion of the town's people had joined his cause. The square now boasted sturdy stone pathways and the beginnings of a central fountain that promised to be a focal point for gatherings and celebrations.
In that busy week, Brian's town had evolved even further. The mercenary's district slowly came back to life; the teahouse began to receive customers, their laughter and chatter a testament to the town's growing prosperity; the barracks were being rebuilt and were now usable, echoing with the sounds of training soldiers. All that change came because one man stood up to the challenge and brought the best forth out of his followers.
Even the prison had become a place to be proud of. There were still many prisoners from previous battles, but their work on the plantations provided an enormous increase in food production. Although the work was hard, the accommodations of the prison cells improved each day, causing unexpected gratitude from the prisoners toward the young lord and the prison guards. Brian had insisted on better living conditions, and now the prisoners had clean bedding and regular meals, a far cry from their previous existence.
But his eyes did not solely focus on the visible improvements. His HUD provided him with additional information his blue eyes could not see, and there was much those eyes could not see. The additional skills on his weapons; the number of allied officers he had received; the levels of the important buildings; the fame he had acquired; the bond with his allied officers and, lastly, his personal stats. It was a strange amalgamation of his past life and this new world, and sometimes the information overload was overwhelming.
The plaza looks good. Gong Jo really outdid himself this time. The soldiers seem more disciplined, and the townfolk are starting to smile more. It's a start, but there's still so much to do. He thought, his mind wandering through the many tasks that lay ahead.
An unexpected gentle voice brought him back to earth. "Good evening, Lord Brian. Are you out on an evening walk?"
Turning around, he saw a former enemy standing there, her brown-black eyes staring at him completely differently this time. Her red armored one-sided dress and golden-armored arm bracelets had been replaced by a simple yet elegant traditional red and brown one-piece hanfu. "Good evening, Lady Shi," Brian greeted as politely as he could while thinking, Damn, she looks amazing. Although it was a simple hanfu, it accentuated her almost perfect curves splendidly. "As a matter of fact, I was. It helps me to clear my mind. Care to join me?"
"How could I refuse such an offer?" The black-haired officer replied with a grateful smile as she stepped alongside him and joined him in his walk. She quickly continued the conversation as she asked, "What is on the mind of such a young lord that requires a walk like this?"
Brian smiled as he answered, "Do not let my appearance fool you. Although my body might still be in its early age, my mind is already several years older. With that advantage comes a burden, for the world is no longer so brightly colored as it used to be."
Lianshi looked to the ground as she asked, "Do you mean the turmoil this land is in?"
"Among other things," he responded smiling as he rolled his almost-healed shoulder, "I have to say, you have an impressive aim."
"Thank you for those kind words, but I still was no match against your martial arts," she responded before she showed a grateful smile and softly added, "Thank you for your hospitality towards us. Although Lord Sun Quan never served someone other than Lord Sun Ce or Lord Sun Jian, it seems he has taken a liking to you."
"I am just glad we could end this conflict without any more bloodshed. Besides, I needed a capable leader to help me rebuild Enkuma," Brian answered. "How is Lady Sun holding out? I hope she wasn't too traumatized by me."
His companion smiled as she responded, "You can't fool me, my lord. My lady has told me everything that happened during her capture. She wanted to thank you for that, but she didn't have the opportunity to do so yet. Thus, as my lady's bodyguard, please accept my sincere gratitude in her name."
Brian's eyes softened as he replied, "Tell her she is always welcome. I am just glad she is willing to help me realize my ambition. We are all trying to build a better future here, and I am glad to have you both on our side. If you have heard everything about what happened that night, you must have heard about my plans."
Lianshi nodded. "A difficult ambition, but not one impossible if I am the one to judge. Lord Sun Quan tried it himself but lacked decisive strength. Having faced you in battle, and seeing how you are trying to develop your lands, I believe you at least have a chance to make that ambition a reality."
"There is still much to do before we get to that point though, and I doubt the other lords will be as cooperative as Lord Sun Quan has been," he responded. A few ladies passed them by and greeted him with sincere happiness before they continued their walk.
"It seems you are quite popular with the ladies, my lord. Should I feel worried where this walk may lead us to?" she asked in a playful tone.
Brian smiled as he answered, "As far as I can tell, they only see a lord who will save them from the dangers of this chaos. I am nothing else but their savior, and the one they look up to. As for you, although you are an exceptionally beautiful woman, I have no underlying motive behind my offer."
Lianshi had not expected the compliment, and she blushed heavily as she looked away in embarrassment. "Is...Is that so?" she whispered, a small part of her mind wishing she had received a different answer. Before the awkward silence could start between them, although it seemed only she experienced it as awkward, she asked, "Anyway, I heard you were planning to create a trade route between us and Long You. I actually came here to pass on that my lady wants to join you on that adventure."
"I am glad to hear that. Tell her we will be leaving tomorrow morning," Brian responded calmly before he added, "Thank you for your companionship on this walk, but I am afraid it is getting late and tomorrow will be another important day."
"I understand, my lord. Good night, and until tomorrow," Lianshi responded as a farewell as she bowed and made her way back home. As she walked away, Brian couldn't help but keep his gaze a little longer on her figure. Perhaps one day. For now, imagination has to do. He thought before he walked back home.
"Are you heading out, my lord? Be careful out there," the guard at the gates warned with sincerity.
"I will. Keep everyone safe in my absence," Brian ordered before he rode forward, a small army following him by horse. The road to Long You was long, and it would take several days to finally get there. But time was something Brian had in spare.
Brian had recalled that Zhang Man Cheng was hoarding precious iron and coal resources, vital for blacksmithing and building infrastructure. These resources were crucial for the blacksmith Zhang Tian back in Jin Cheng. Additionally, the trade routes were unsafe and costly, particularly for the precious herbs required for the teahouse's special blends.
A few battles happened along the way, mainly some resource missions and a fame mission to save some peasants from wild animals. As expected, the tigress of Wu was as fearsome as the tigers she fought off, and if that wasn't enough, Brian's strength was.
During these skirmishes, Brian's army encountered bandits who had been harassing merchants. This allowed Brian to secure the trade routes, promising safety to merchants who would soon travel between Jin Cheng and Long You. Each victory not only boosted their morale but also ensured a steady flow of supplies and resources.
But Brian gained something other than new allies, fame, or resources. "My lord, please take care of your fatigue. I don't know how comfortable it may be, but you can rest your head on my lap...if you like?" Lianshi offered as she gently laid Brian's head on her lap. The battles together with the long-black-haired archer had increased his bond with her quite a bit, resulting in an interesting offer.
"What have I done to receive this privilege?" Brian asked as his head relaxed on the soft fabric of Lianshi's battle dress, and the curvy secrets that were covered by it.
"Enough to earn it. Please close your eyes now, and rest," she responded softly as she gently brushed his hair with her hands. I am not sure what I did to deserve this, but I am not complaining. Who would have thought her lap could be this comfortable? "It is not an evening walk, but I hope it helps to clear the troubles of your mind."
Brian did not answer as his mind focused on the soft touch on his head, not even aware of the smile on his face. "Man, Lord Brian is so lucky. When this thing is over, I'll find myself a woman who wants to do that for me," a random soldier said at the same campfire.
"With your looks, you have to be content with a donkey," another soldier mocked grinningly.
"Shut up! I can totally get a woman if I wanted to!"
Laughter filled the air until the voice of a certain younger officer commented, "How lovely would it be to have someone you love waiting for you at home? Working on the fields while she takes care of the kids, and seeing their smiling faces greeting me when I return."
"Is that all that you wish for?" Brian asked.
Zhang Jun looked confused as he asked, "What do you mean, milord?"
Brian smiled as he asked, "Do you really wish for a woman who will wait for you at the doorstep, feeding your children and nothing else? Sounds kind of like a waste of life, doesn't it?" Noticing he had drawn everyone's attention, he sat up and said, "Your wife, or husband, is going to be the person you are going to be with for the rest of your life. That person is not just your support, but your significant other. You help each other strive for the best and support each other when things become difficult." Turning his head to the young tigress, he asked, "Lady Sun, what is something you want? What is the goal you try to achieve?"
The short-haired girl looked up surprised, smiled as she had a piece of tiger meat in her hands, and answered, "I just wanted to help my brothers and my father. I couldn't sit still after seeing them all fighting for their cause. Now, I just hope I can get them to bury the hatchet. I don't even know what they were fighting about..."
"We can ask them when we meet them on the battlefield one day," Brian comforted. "I'll make certain they have a reason to bury that hatchet." Turning back to his men, he said, "Be content with what you have but never forget to aim for more. Learn about the world, taste the richness it has to offer, and find someone who helps you experience life to the fullest. That is what it means to love someone."
Brian could tell he had his men's fullest attention and could tell even without the morale bar that he had inspired them. "Could you tell us more about that richness, Lord Brian? What are they like?"
A first thing immediately entered Brian's mind, and while slowly coming up not to scare Lianshi, he answered, "Instead of telling, let me show you. You, stand up," he ordered.
"Of course, sir. What do you want me to do?" the soldier asked.
Brian opened his hands as he answered, "Punch my hands with everything you've got."
Although the soldier looked momentarily confused, he did as ordered. "Come on, I know you can do better. Punch it!" Brian ordered again with a smile, the soldier's punches stronger and done with more confidence. "Again!" Brian repeated, the soldier punching again. At first, the others were skeptical about what seemed to be just a training regime. However, as the puncher slowly began to smile, each punch accelerating more and more despite the heaviness in his arms, they realized it was different.
Brian then said, "Think about the person you care about most. Imagine you're protecting them with every punch." The soldier's strikes grew even more powerful and determined. The others watched, realizing the depth of Brian's words and the true strength behind his teachings.
After a few more rounds, Brian stopped the soldier and said, "That's the richness of life—fighting for what you love, for who you love. It's not just about surviving, but thriving, and finding joy in the journey."
The campfire crackled as Brian's words sank in. The soldiers felt a renewed sense of purpose, understanding that their struggles had meaning beyond the battlefield. They were building a future, not just for themselves but for those they loved and cared about.
Brian looked around at his men, seeing the determination in their eyes, and knew they were ready for whatever lay ahead. The bonds they were forming would be the foundation of the peace and prosperity he sought to bring to the land.
"You did well. How do you feel?" Brian asked, smiling as he lowered his arms, although he did not need an answer if he read the young soldier's face.
"I...I am exhausted, sir! But your words helped me pull through. Did I really do well, Sir?"
"You did." Turning around to the other soldiers, he explained, "Words of encouragement is a strength so obvious, we forget we have it. The strength of encouraging words can make you beat the world. We have the power to push ourselves and others to the limit with those, yet we forget about that power. Slowly, we take things for granted. Do not ever take these blessings for granted. Compliment each other, thank each other, and compete with each other to get the best out of yourself." Turning his gaze back on the panting soldier, he added, "But this wasn't the only thing gained here. Answer me truthfully, what is your opinion about me after this short test of strength?" Brian asked the soldier.
"That you are an awesome sparring partner, sir. Please, teach me more!" the soldier pleaded. Some soldiers knew how tormenting and boring normal training could be, so for one of their own to ask such a request, it meant something exceptional just happened in front of their eyes.
"I will," Brian replied before he turned to his crowd and said, "And with just one lesson, we exchanged something money can't buy. Respect. Respect to push yourself to your limits, and respect for the one who can help you with that. If you are looking for a woman to share your life with, those are the richness you seek. The richness that are free, yet are rare. Start with those richness, and I will slowly teach you more about what this world has to offer."
"Yes, Milord! We will!"
Some soldiers started to copy his lessons already, resulting in the morale rising even further. Brian thought that was the end of the evening, but he had forgotten something important. If Lianshi's bond had grown, wouldn't the same count for her lady? "Excuse me, My lord." Sun Shangxiang asked as he was approaching his tent.
Brian turned around, smiled, and said, "Lady Sun, you know we are friends. There is no need for you to be so formal. What can I do for you?"
Sun Shangxiang looked hesitantly before she looked into his eyes and asked, "Are we really just friends? I was impressed with your speech, and your commitment to helping me. Truth is, I am starting to find you handsome. I..I.. might even be falling in..." she stuttered before she walked away fully red and quickly added, "Never mind! Forget I said anything. Good night, Lord Brian!"
Did she just...Are you for real? Brian wondered, shocked as he entered his tent. Closing the flap to keep the temperature bearable, he lay down on his bed and checked his menu one more time. I know fighting alongside each other on the battlefield can help you trust someone quicker, but to think they would bond with me this quickly... Why was it never this easy in the other world?!
By the time Brian and his escort of a small army had reached Long You, another week had passed. The trip would have taken two days if it wasn't for the constant interruptions of battles. However, those interruptions brought forth another surprising development. The smaller lords quickly discovered the young lord's strength and, realizing he had not come to attack them but just to open new trading routes, they quickly allied themselves with him.
During the campaign, Brian's forces also confronted Zhang Man Cheng near Bao Han. Brian recalled the importance of Zhang Man Cheng's hoarded resources—iron and coal, vital for the blacksmith Zhang Tian back in Jin Cheng. Additionally, the tea house lady had mentioned the difficulties of acquiring herbs due to unsafe and expensive trade routes. Brian's campaign aimed to fix these problems, ensuring safe and efficient trade.
The battle against Zhang Man Cheng was swift and decisive. Using Sun Shangxiang's vanguard and Bo Zhang's flanking tactics, Brian's forces quickly overwhelmed the warlord's defenses. Zhang Man Cheng, realizing his defeat was imminent, surrendered, securing the precious resources of iron and coal for Jin Cheng.
The conquest of Long You followed a similar pattern. Upon arrival, the lord of Long You quickly agreed to a trading route and submitted to Brian, realizing the benefits of such an alliance. With the trade routes now secured, the tea house in Jin Cheng received a steady supply of herbs, and the blacksmith had the materials he needed.
Brian's Return to Jin Cheng
As Brian rode into his own town, tired from the nearly continuous ride, an enormous welcome awaited him. It was as if he was part of a parade, one the people had been waiting for all their lives. "Welcome back, my lord!" and "Thank you very much for everything, Milord!" could be heard among the crowd. Wow, this is pretty amazing, he thought before he checked the plaza ground and realized it was completely finished. Looking to the left, he noticed Gong Jo standing there, giving him a polite but sincere bow. His daughter was less polite as she just waved and smiled happily, almost shouting with her eyes alone, "We are done with the town's grounds!"
The people are welcoming me as if I have saved them, but they did all the hard work. I need to do something in return to let them know, he thought as he continued to ride forward, smiling tiredly. Perhaps a town feast is what this town needs. It certainly would help morale. I am not much of an organizer, though. Perhaps Delan knows someone. He continued to ponder as he rode to his home.
Delan was already waiting for his arrival at his home, a welcoming smile on his face as he greeted, "Good afternoon, Lord Brian. I hope your travels were pleasant."
"It wasn't a holiday, but it could have been a lot worse. Can you catch me up to speed on what has been going on in my absence?" Brian asked as he walked inside, preparing to switch his battle wear for casual clothing and enjoy a little time in his town before another task required his attention.
"Of course," Delan responded as he stepped alongside his lord and continued, "Firstly, let me start with Gong Jo's work. Thanks to their hard work and coordination of the additional manpower, they have successfully finished the town's groundwork. He wanted to wait with the renovation of the houses until your return, but he is ready to go at any given moment. Secondly, according to Mi Tong's report, Sun Quan is successfully rebuilding Enkuma. Word has spread quickly, and our towns are getting visited more and more each day."
"Perfect," Brian responded, content. "Is that all?"
The advisor shook his head as he answered, "No, it is not. Thanks to the prisoners' work in the fields, we have, for the first time in a long time, a food supply reserve. I also heard from Di Ma that the Zhu brothers have finally submitted to your rule and requested to join you on the battlefield to regain their freedom and honor."
"I'll think about it," Brian responded before he realized there was something he wanted to ask his advisor. Turning around, he said, "So much has changed, and it is all due to the efforts of the townspeople. Is there a way to show them how well they have done? For example, a town party?"
Delan's eyes lit up as he answered, "That's a perfect idea. Did you have anyone in mind who could organize it?"
"I didn't until just now. Do you want to organize it, Delan?" Brian asked, already figuring his advisor couldn't say no.
As expected, the advisor bowed as he answered, "It would be my greatest honor! Please leave it to me. When is the date?"
"How long do you need?" Brian asked.
"A feast with the whole town? Around five days, my lord."
"Then the feast will be a week from now. I am counting on you," Brian said. It was at that moment a door opened, and an unexpected pair of eyes looked at him. "Emperor, glad to see you in good health. What can I do for you?"
Delan's eyes shot open, and with a quick bow, he left the room. Guess the Emperor is still a big man to the commoners, even if he is powerless. The young boy did not pay attention to Delan's retreat as he shifted his eyes to Brian and answered, "I need a moment to speak with you, sir Brian. Do you have time?" Asking me instead of demanding? What has changed over the course of those weeks?
"Of course. What's the problem, your highness?" Brian asked politely as he sat down at his table.
The Emperor looked worried as he answered, "I have been thinking about what you said at our first meeting. The land is in turmoil because the people don't know who to follow. It sounded ridiculous at first, for I was certain the people would follow the Emperor unconditionally. However, after seeing for myself how this town has changed over the course of just a few weeks just because they followed you, I have come to the conclusion you were right. It is not just the townspeople who have changed. Even my own guards have changed. They were stressed, hungry, and rarely smiled. Now, it feels like the days of old."
"Thus, hereby I ask you for your guidance on how to become an Emperor who can destroy the turmoil of the land and return order and peace. Help me establish my name in history and the future!"
Brian looked conflicted as he responded, "If fame is what you're after, I am afraid I can't help you, your highness. In these times of chaos and turmoil, fame should not even be a goal to reach."
"And yet, your popularity continues to skyrocket. How do you expect me to believe you give nothing about popularity or fame when I hear everyone chanting your name in glory?" The young Emperor asked skeptically.
Brian smiled as he answered, "I do not expect you to believe me, your highness. I expect you to trust me." Brian noticed a shift in the Emperor's eyes, the young boy realizing his emotions had clouded his judgment. With a smile, Brian answered, "That popularity is just a byproduct of me listening to the people's wishes. This town was fragile, so I made it sturdy. People feared for their lives, so I made them feel safe. People were afraid to starve, thus I gave them food. However, I did not give them just what they needed. I gave them a way to sustain the needs they had. That feeling that you are not depending on someone and can survive with your own strength; it is something we all wish for. And although I provide the needs to make it a reality, it was the people who have eventually done the work."
The Emperor was momentarily at a loss for words and provided Brian with a perfect opportunity to make a suggestion. "Say, I cannot help you with becoming popular or gaining fame, but I can help you to learn more about normal people and their desires. There is going to be a town party in one week, and you can be part of it."
"A town party? Although it has been long since I have been to a party, I doubt I would be able to see the people's true colors and desires if I would show up," the young Emperor said disappointedly.
However, Brian continued to smile as he responded, "That's only a small obstacle we can easily overcome."
One week. That was all the time Delan had to organize a feast worthy of his lord's name. One week to find the people who would serve the guests the perfect menu. One week to gather the ingredients used in the dishes to serve those guests. One week to invite those guests and ensure there would be no unwanted people. It was too easy for Delan.
In just one day, word spread out to all of Brian's associates, and two days later, carts of many rode into town. The best chefs of the surrounding areas did not have to be asked to help, for they were willingly coming to show their skill in the hope of being acknowledged. Lanterns with burning candles hung high in the air on the stretched wires on the promised evening, and musicians were already warming up their skills and instruments before the party started.
The sun descended behind the mountains, signaling the cue that the party could begin. The waiters who were hidden until now started to appear as the music continued to ring in the air, and slowly but surely, the plaza grounds filled up with the guests.
The Grand Feast.
"Lord Brian! I am glad to see you in good health. Thank you for inviting me," a warm voice greeted.
Brian smiled as he approached the youngest prince of Wu with open arms and responded, "Sun Quan, I am glad to see you. We are at a party. You can drop the whole 'lord' and just call me Brian! Come and drink with us!"
"Us?" the youngest tiger asked curiously.
Brian nodded as he called one of the waiters with a hand sign, grabbed three glasses, and introduced the young man standing alongside him. "Yes. Sun Quan, this is my good friend La Biung. La Biung, this is Sun Quan."
"Ah, yes. The youngest son of Sun Jian. It is a pleasure to meet you," the young boy greeted politely.
"Likewise. A friend of Brian is a friend of mine! Let's enjoy this evening together and make this a night to remember!" Sun Quan celebrated.
The Emperor looked momentarily conflicted, his mind wondering how the youngest tiger of Wu could fall for his disguise. Although his name was different, it wasn't that different from his real name, Liu Bang. Although his hair and clothing were different, his disguise should not have worked this well. And yet it did.
"My lord. You look well tonight," another familiar voice echoed through the air. Brian looked back to see Lianshi standing in her familiar casual clothing. However, the girl who was standing beside her was anything but familiarly dressed. Her short red-white battle dress with black leggings had changed to a pink-white hanfu with a white jacket, a red wisp used as a belt while she wore a silk scarf on her shoulders. Instead of two wheels, she wore two flowers in her hair.
Wow, Brian thought as he was momentarily lost in thought. "Goo...Good evening, L...Lord Brian," Sun Shangxiang stuttered nervously. So cute!
A soft elbow poke brought him back to earth. He shook his head, slapped both his cheeks simultaneously, and said, "Damn, I just took a critical hit." Turning to the young nervous girl, he apologized, "My apologies for my moment of silence. Good evening, Lady Shi, Lady Sun. You both look breathtaking tonight."
"D..do you really think so, my lord?" the young tigress asked blushing, her heart skipping a beat by the compliment.
"Thank you very much for those kind words, my lord. Thank you again for inviting us to this party," Lianshi thanked him sincerely. "I hope this becomes an evening to remember."
Brian smiled as he raised his glass and responded, "To that, I drink."
It took a bit of time, but the atmosphere slowly shifted from an awkward start to a noteworthy party. A few acts of simple entertainment in the middle of the plaza made the people laugh, and the dining was perfect for the occasion. The evening was warmly comfortable, and a soft breeze made it even better.
The young lord talked to almost everyone at the party. From the former warlord Sun Quan to the specialist Gong Jo, to the blacksmith and the owner of the teahouse. His officers were part of the guest list, and they clearly enjoyed the change in pace.
With only a few drinks, Sun Shangxiang had drowned her nervousness. Thus, Brian was a bit taken aback when the normally nervous tigress asked him flirty, "Lord Brian, dance with me!"
"I...I can't dance," Brian responded nervously. He really didn't have the skill for it, and he doubted the game had given him the ability to do so. The young tigress had none of it as she pulled him along and replied, "Then let me teach you! It is really easy!" It wasn't. Brian had no idea how to perform the foreign dances, and even with Sun Shangxiang's help, he could not get the hang of it.
"Your skill with a sword might be better than mine, but your dancing skills could still use a polishing touch," Sun Quan joked as he joined his side.
"Well, at least this makes it interesting. What fun would it be if I was good at everything?" Brian joked as he took a sip of his drink, his body dehydrated by the quick dancing rhythm of his dance partner. He was lucky Lianshi wanted to take it over, for he would have fallen victim to the tigress's fiery spirit.
Sun Quan looked happy at his dancing sister as he started, "I am glad she can enjoy herself. She was devastated when we split up from the others. Thank you for making her happy again." Then he looked more serious as he added, "I heard you wanted to help us bury the hatchet with our brother and our father."
"That is my promise. I am not certain what this quarrel is all about, but I'll end it," Brian answered determinedly. His expression turned to a questioning one when he asked, "Having said that, I do wonder what the reason was for you to split up."
"To be honest, I am not certain anymore myself," Sun Quan answered, saddened. "It was never going that well, but we could manage. But disaster after disaster struck, and it did not take long for the people to rebel. We tried to subdue the rebels and keep the damage minimal, but we couldn't do it. In the end, we couldn't agree anymore on what to do and parted ways."
"Meaning, if I want to make sure the hatchet is buried, I have to take that responsibility off their hands," Brian concluded.
Sun Quan snorted, realizing that was indeed one way to solve the issue completely. However, before he could retort, a man came running, kneeled before Brian, and reported in a worried tone, "My lord, we have a problem."
Brian didn't have to guess, as a new battlefield appeared in his HUD. Tianshui-Dual. A battle against powerful warriors from around the world. He tried to keep his poker face as he asked, "What is the problem?"
"We have word Liu Shan is marching towards our borders of Jie Ting with a massive army. Assumingly, they will reach Jie Ting in a little less than three weeks!" the soldier reported worriedly.
"Very well. Dismissed," he ordered before Brian shifted his eyes on Sun Quan and mumbled, "Could they not wait to charge on us for one day?"
An unexpected voice answered his mumbled question, "Then they would no longer have the element of surprise to their benefit, my lord. However, if we move quickly, we can intercept their army at Tianshui," Lu Su advised. He bowed as he suggested, "If you allow us to join you on the battlefield, we should be able to defeat this threat."
"Yes. That's a very good idea, Lu Su. Zhuge Ke has already proven capable of leading Enkuma in my absence. If you allow us to join you, we can repay you for your kindness and hospitality," Sun Quan added.
Brian nodded as he answered, "Very well. We'll leave tomorrow at dawn."
The sun barely stood on the horizon, giving just a glimpse of how it would shine that day. Shine, if it wasn't for the dark-colored clouds covering them throughout the day, for many of the marching soldiers a bad omen.
On a white horse unique of its kind called Hex Mark, a young lord slowly rode forward in front of his army, watching those very same clouds. "Say, Zhao Yun. What would you say if you look at those clouds?"
Before the trustworthy bodyguard could answer, another voice responded. "Do not believe in such foolish omens, Lord Liu Shan. In the end, it is all just superstition," Fa Zheng, the strategist, remarked with a dismissive wave of his hand.
Another warrior added to the strategist's words, "Although Master Fa Zheng is right, heavy rain could be troublesome for our advance. We should set our camp somewhere safe and wait for these clouds to pass."
Another female officer nodded in agreement, "I agree with Master Jiang Wei. We do not want to lose any morale for the upcoming battle, so setting up a base and waiting for the rain to pass is the best course of action," Xing Cai, daughter of Zhang Fei, suggested.
The young lord smiled and said, "Thank you, Xing Cai. Let's hurry and set up camp."
Slowly but steadily, the son of Liu Bei marched on Brian's borders, an army of 10,000 men strong following in his footsteps. That army was led by the two famous strategists Fa Zheng and Jiang Wei, and supported by two impressive officers: Xing Cai and Zhao Yun.
As they moved to set up camp, the soldiers worked with disciplined efficiency, each unit knowing their roles as tents were erected and supplies were distributed. The camp quickly took shape, a testament to the army's preparedness and the leadership of their officers.
Jiang Wei surveyed the camp from a small rise, his keen eyes assessing the fortifications. "Place the archers on the outer perimeter," he ordered, pointing to the areas most vulnerable to a surprise attack. "Make sure the supply tents are well-guarded and keep the firewood covered. We don't want it soaked and useless if the rain gets worse."
As they set up camp, Zhao Yun and Xing Cai found a moment to discuss their thoughts on the upcoming battle. The soldiers moved around them, setting up tents and securing the perimeter.
"Have you heard the rumors about this Brian Miller?" Xing Cai asked, her voice thoughtful as they walked through the camp.
Zhao Yun nodded. "Yes, I've heard he's a formidable opponent. His tactics are unconventional, and he has a way of inspiring fierce loyalty among his men."
"Some say he's almost supernatural in battle," Xing Cai added. "His ability to turn the tide against overwhelming odds is becoming legendary."
Fa Zheng, who had overheard their conversation, interjected, "Legends and rumors are just that. We must focus on our strategies and not let tales of invincibility distract us. Every man can be defeated."
Jiang Wei joined the discussion, his tone contemplative. "True, but we should not underestimate the power of morale and belief. If his men believe he is unbeatable, that can be a weapon in itself."
Liu Shan listened quietly to his officers, his expression conflicted. Despite the loyalty of his soldiers and the expertise of his advisors, he often felt the weight of his father's legacy and the expectations placed upon him. Giving orders did not come as naturally to him as it did to his father, Liu Bei, or even his brother, Liu Feng.
As the officers continued their preparations and conversations, the camp settled into a tense but determined quiet. The soldiers hunkered down, ready to weather the storm and the battles that lay ahead. The next dawn would bring more than just the light of a new day; it would bring the clash of armies and the test of their resolve.
Author notes:
So this is chapter 5. Hope you guys liked it.
This one was more focused on bonds and less on the hack-and-slash Dynasty Warriors is associated with. One of the many things I like about ambition mode is that you can increase your bond with officers and get unique dialogues if it is high enough. Usually, their bonds are maxed after nine battles, but I plan to work around this a bit.
Anyway, that was it for chapter 5 and hope to see you legends in the next one. Beyor out!