Ok Ok, Moredohc here but first Disclaimers.
I Do not own anything here or am i doing a accurate historical representation. The game is owned by Koei and the story is inspired by the Romance of the three Kingdoms.
Again, any notes or my thoughts about this chapter is at the bottom. Enjoy :D
Chapter 7 Family Meeting:
The beautiful city of Xu is bathed in bright sunshine. While individuals exchange money and do business, dealers, farmers, and vendors sell a wide range of items and meals to the public. Children were giggling heartily at the warmth and tranquillity they were enjoying as they raced around and played games with one another. Soldiers in blue uniforms may be seen patrolling the city and gazing over Xu and its inhabitants from the top of the walls.
A little tract of private property can be seen in the city's upper middle. It is surrounded by a modest wall, with a small gate serving as the entrance. Cao Cao, the lord of Xu, is currently evaluating political efforts and battle reports in this long home. His body armour was linked to the large shoulder pads he wore. Under his armour, he wore a navy-blue tunic and fingerless leather gloves. His eyes radiated strength and knowledge, and his features were sharp and alert.
His battles with Yuan Shu appear to be going well, and with the current momentum he and Yuan Shao has, Yuan Shu's army ought to be demoralised and facing an easy victory. He could then concentrate on Xu province and, eventually, Liu Bei after that. Suddenly the door to his office opens and a burly armoured warrior comes in.
"Master Cao Cao, I'm here to report about the findings of the emperor." Xiahou Yuan bowed.
Following behind him is his brother, Xiahou Dun. His left eye was being covered by an eye patch and coupled with his gruff and harden features.
"Its lord Cao Cao now cousin. Try not to forget." Xiaohou Dun voiced gruffly, reminding the large man. Cao Cao merely shook his head, brushing the matter aside.
"What have found Yuan?"
"Uhh…that's the thing Cao Cao..." Yuan looked away sheepishly. Cao Cao merely raised his eyebrows at the hesitation of his cousin before his brother explained further.
"What he's trying to say is, we don't know where the emperor is." Dun bluntly said with a grunt.
Yuan slouches and looks at the ground, expecting ridicule from his brother and disappointment from his lord. Cao Cao instead, said nothing and pondered in his thoughts. Seconds of silence past, causing the burly man to look up confused before noticing Cao Cao's eyes. They were calculating and in deep thought.
"I See. Very well then. Xiahou Yuan, Xiahou Dun. You both can rest for now." Cao Cao simply said.
This surprised both the cousins, expecting Cao Cao to be less… accepting of the results. These past few weeks, more and more patrols were out and about trying to find the whereabouts of the emperor in the central plains and all of China. So to suddenly no longer trying to find Han Jin was quite perplexing for the both of them.
"Cao Cao, what about the emperor?" Xiahou Dun furrowed his eyes at his lord's sudden decision.
"It's of no consequence now. With the emperor currently missing the chaos will worsen more than ever than with Dong Zhuo in control of the Han Court." Cao Cao explained and bringing out a new scroll and began writing ink in it.
"Instead of chasing after a missing emperor, it is better to prepare and solidify the land quickly before the chaos consumes all of China. Once we unite the central plains, we can focus on finding the emperor afterwards and if during that time if the emperor is found dead or missing still, then we must advocate for a new emperor."
"That's a long and hard road to walk on. But let's sat that the emperor is dead, who will take the mandate of heaven?" Xiahou Dun rubbed his chin, contemplating his plan.
"Whoever the people shall choose." Cao Cao said almost ambiguously before finishing up both scrolls and rolling it up.
"haha, I see. So, You did plan for this as well. should've expected that of you, cousin. I believe that you can unite the land during these times of chaos." Xiahou Yuan lets out a hearty chuckle.
Cao Cao nods, thankful for having such faithful retainers in his army. For now, he should deal with Yuan Shu and begin building his army for the inevitable confrontations between him and Yuan Shao in the future.
"By the way, how are your sons doing?" Xiahou Dun inquired.
"My sons? Hmm why the sudden interest?" Cao Cao set down his brush and looked at his cousin with a raised eyebrow.
"Cao Ren and Cao Hong are great officer among our ranks and climbing the ladder as we speak. It's a given seeing as how the Cao family seems to be the main figures in power among our ranks." Xiahou Dun explained.
"Hey now brother, there's no need to pry into our lord's personal business or family." Xiahou Yuan narrowed his eyes.
"No, its alright Yuan. My sons are doing fine. They are training and or studying diligently to help me and carry on my path of uniting the land. Especially Pi." Cao Cao returned to his papers as he continues talking about his sons.
"Cao Ang is doing good. He's the most physically strong of his siblings and very determined to make a name for himself. Zhang has my intelligence and wisdom but lacks the ambitious nature compared to his older siblings. Pi on the other hand has that same drive and ambition as I do as well as my wisdom. However, he is arrogant and pretentious." Cao Cao explained, looking out the window where his family where outside in their courtyard playing together.
"What about your youngest son?" Xiahou Yuan, rubbed his chin.
"Zhi is quite academically talented; however, he is more prideful than me and Pi. Believing that it is his birthright to be where he is now due to my accomplishments. As such I don't believe in him all that much compared to his brothers and sisters" Cao Cao narrowed his eyes, evaluating his sons and daughters outside.
He notices Zhi following Pi around as his leader as they began picking on their little sister Cao Xian before Cao Qinghe stepped in to protect her little sister as the oldest daughter. Cao Ang and Cao Zhang were talking among themselves about something, but it was barely audible from his office on the second story. Meanwhile his first wife and second wife were talking among themselves while watching over the kids before reprimanding both Pi and Zhi who looked tried to act indifferent but were saddened.
"Hmm. Sounds like you have a handful yourself Cao Cao." Xiahou Dun smirked as all three watch over the window.
"Yes…it seems like I do." Cao Cao stands up with a regal and sharp poise.
"Back to business. Xiahou Dun, send these to Guo Jia and Xou You. Yuan, give these to Xou Yu for me." Cao Cao handed both scrolls to the cousins.
They both nodded and bowed before leaving Cao Cao's office. When they went, Cao Cao peered behind him through his window and saw Cao Ang and Cao Pi sparring in the courtyard, with their other siblings and his wiveswatching. Inside, he is proud of his family, and in a rare fatherly act, he rises from his desk and quits his office, heading to the courtyard to spend time with them. Even the greatest of heroes feels the urge to communicate with their loved ones.
In an inn in Shouchun, everyone in the Sun clan and their retainers were in Sun Jian's room. it was the middle of the day, and everyone was uncomfortably silent. All of them were trying to reel in the fact that they were beaten by the raiders and lost not one but both supply carts. What left a bitter taste was the fact that their princess and her retainer were in danger because of their fire attack.
Having them both being saved by the raiders just added salt into the wound. Everyone's expressions are contemplative or sullen at their failure. The only people who aren't here are Sun Ce and Sun Jian as both went to report their failed mission yesterday to Yuan Shu, but they didn't care about what he felt about them. Han Dang sighs at this sombre atmosphere.
"This wasn't any of your faults." Han Dang tried to appease.
Ever since they came back from their failed mission, Zhou Yu, Sun Quan, Sun Shang Xiang and Lianshi were disheartened and downtrodden from their failure.
"Thank you master Han Dang. But it was my plan that failed everyone and caused more harm to us rather than the raiders." Zhou Yu sighs, rubbing his eyes at the fatigue finally catching up to them.
"No master Zhou Yu, it wasn't your fault. If only I were stronger and faster, we could've stopped that red warrior. It was my own inability to help that led to our downfall and let the princess in a dangerous situation." Lianshi lamented with a hand over her heart.
"No, Lianshi." Her master shook her head profusely at her.
"If it weren't for my own lack of awareness and strength, I wouldn't have slowed you down in that fire." Sun Shang Xiang looks away, ashamed of her own weakness.
"My lady." Lianshi smiles gently, her hand landing on her shoulder to comfort her.
"No. You both shouldn't be ashamed of your failure. The raiders were underestimated and were more organised than we had thought." Sun Quan sighs rubbing his arm were a warrior with a longsword had instantly disarmed him when the fight began.
"Master Sun Quan is correct. Not only were they well-coordinated and planned out. They also had very strong and skilled warriors among their ranks." Zhou Tai Narrowed his eyes.
He remembered fighting off the young girl dual wielding twin spears. At first, he underestimated her due to her young appearance, but as soon as they engaged in a fight, Zhou Tai was being matched in speed against her. Her skills with her dual spears were also unexpected for someone her age but next time should he cross blades with her, he wouldn't underestimate her again.
The door opens to an annoyed Sun Ce and tired Sun Jian. They both enter, with Sun Ce sitting on the chair with his sister and Sun Jian sitting by his short desk and rubbing his eyes.
"Are you both alright?" Shang Xiang asked worried.
Sun Ce rolled his neck to get rid of the stiffness in his neck and grunting.
"You mean getting berated By Yuan Shu for almost an hour straight? Yeah, we're just peachy." Sun Ce sighed.
"Is that it? we were just berated for our actions?" Sun Quan tilted his head at his brother.
"Hey, it's way harder than it sounds Quan. Just listening to him rambling and complaining on and on was giving me a headache. Next time, I'll send you instead when we fail another mission so you can bear the brunt of it." Sun Ce let out a small, frustrated growl where his brother merely narrowed his eyes in response.
Sun Jian shook his head.
"No. since we failed to apprehend the raiders, Yuan Shu saw fit to punish us by keeping us under house arrest." Sun Jian sighs as he looks over everyone.
"What? So we can't leave the inn or something? We aren't children." Sun Shang Xiang angrily grumbles.
"Too be honest that is quite the meagre punishment for failure. Especially against raiders." Han Dang blinked owlishly and rubbing his chin.
"Well not anymore."
Everyone looks at Sun Ce wondering what their leader is Implying.
"What are you saying Ce? Are you implying we are children or… we're no longer under grounded?" Zhou Yu furrows his eyebrows at him with a smirk.
"Not what I meant Zhou Yu." Sun Ce deadpanned as everyone else chuckled at the joke.
"I've traded the imperial seal for our own independence. We were also able snagged some of Yuan Shu's soldiers with us as well." Sun Ce smirked.
Silence emanated in the entire room that a pin drop could be heard. It took them some time to process what their current patriarch had iterated.
"Wait wait wait. Are you telling us we're free being under Yuan Shu's control Master Sun Ce?" Han Dang stood up from his seat, feeling ecstatic.
Everyone's feelings of disheartened after their defeat against the raiders were being washed away by Sun Ce's announcement. They felt a weight lifted off their shoulders as if they have just been liberated from shackles.
"That's great brother. But what do we do now then?" Sun Quan smiles but a bit of his pessimistic side question whether this was a good idea.
"Well, Me, Zhou Yu and father and the others had already planned to leave Yuan Shu later this year." Sun Ce looks at his closest friend, smiling at him.
"I guess we are implementing this plan early on then." Zhou Yu chuckles.
"Uhh what plan are you talking about?" Han Dang tilts his head in confusion.
Zhou Yu stood up and grabbed the map by the shelf near the armour stand and unrolled the map onto the long table for all to see. On the map were the different provinces, cities, and castles. Roads and landmarks showing different routes and mountains passes.
"Me, Lord Sun Jian, Sun Ce, master Huang Gai and master Cheng Pu had plans for when we decided to inevitably leave Yuan Shu's army." Zhou Yu then marked Qu'a and Jiangye on the map using a brush provided by Sun Jian who he thanked.
"Qu'a and Jiangye are prominent locations for us start. This way we can create a land of peace and harmony and essentially a kingdom of Wu." Everyone who just heard of this looked at Zhou Yu in shock.
"A new kingdom?"
"Yes, a new kingdom. By capturing the land of Wu and Yang province, we can raise our own army and declare independence."
"Then how much men did we gain from the imperial Seal, brother?"
"Just over Ten thousand men. Huang Gai and Cheng Pu are readying them as we speak, and we should be good to go after about a week or two of preparations." Everyone let the information sink in and contemplates the ambitious plan
"Ten thousand men isn't much. Especially if we plan to take Wu and Jiangye from Liu Yong." Han Dang grumbles.
"I'm sure we can do this. If we give it our all, nobody can stand in our way. Right Lianshi." Sun Shang Xiang looks at her bodyguard confidently.
"…."
"Hello Lianshi?" Sun Shang Xiang appeared in Lianshi's vision, snapping her out of her thoughts.
"Oh… yes Princess?"
"You okay there Lianshi? You seem quite out of It after the raid." Lianshi offers a reassuring smile at her lady.
"I'm fine Lady Sun Shang Xiang. Just… thinking." Sun Shang Xiang merely hummed and furrowing her eyebrows at her best friend before Sun Jian continued.
"Does everyone understand what we'll do now?" Sun Jian looks at the people in his room for affirmation.
Everyone nodded their heads in agreement.
"We better rest well for the coming months ahead."
With that, everyone leaves the room with Lianshi closing the door behind her. She watches as everyone returns to their respective rooms before sighing, turning her to her door directly next to her lady's. Lianshi opens her door and prepares to enter but a tap on her shoulder stops her. Turning her head around, she saw the princess who gave Lianshi her ever brilliant smile.
"Hey Lianshi. Mind if we talked in your room?" It was an innocent question that caught Lianshi off guard, but she schooled her face to a smile of her own.
"Of course, my Lady." Both enter Lianshi's room.
It wasn't as spacious as Sun Jian's room, but it was big enough to hold a few amounts of people. A desk was by the open window where the sun was shining from its descent, giving light inside. On far-right side of the room, the bed can be seen and to the left, a small mirror and dressing area for changing and makeup. Sun Shang Xiang basically skips around, looking around her lady guard's room before sitting down on her bed. Lianshi, keeps her hand in front of her and watches her princess with a smile.
"Come sit down Lianshi. You look like a tree standing there." Sun Shang chuckles and pats on the bed next to her.
Lianshi lets out a breath and relaxes her being. She nods her head strides over to her lady and friend, sitting down next to her before being greeted to Sun Shang Xiang's enthusiastic smile.
"So, my lady, what do you want to discuss?" Lianshi tilted her head in enquiry.
"I wanted to see how you were doing." Her legs were kicking in the air as she gazed at the mirror on the other side of the room, where Lianshi was beaming sweetly at her.
"Well, I'm doing fine. But how are you feeling princess? You were coughing very harshly when we left the forest." Lianshi eyes scanned her ladies face from the side, trying to discern any damage.
"I'm just peachy. I feel fully healed." Sun Shang Xiang giggles.
Lianshi nods, keeping her smile before looking down.
"You can tell me anything right Lianshi?"
As Lianshi looks in the mirror, she notices that her lady is still grinning at her. Her heart and thoughts were calmed by the soft and comforting grin. Lianshi laughs a little, but it's a genuine chuckle.
"Always, princess."
"So, Lianshi, what's upsetting you? Since we lost to those raidersyesterday, you have been acting strangely." At last, Sun Shang Xiang looks over at Lianshi.
Surprised at her lady's intuition but couldn't deny what she was feeling since yesterday. Ever since she failed to protect the princess, she's reminded of her own weakness. Lianshi closes her eyes as she draws breath, recounting her moments with her lady.
The image of the fire surrounding her appeared in her mind, her lady in standing in front of her. Lianshi watches as her lady burns in flames gasping for air, looking at her with a scared and pained face causing her breath to hitch.
"Lianshi?"
Suddenly she was pulled back to reality and was breathing heavily. She feels herself sweating and her vision waning from her small episode. She feels a hand on her hand, squeezing tightly. Lianshi turns her head to see her lady looking concerned.
"Forgive me my lady but I'm feeling under the weather." Lianshi gives Sun Shang Xiang a small shaky smile.
A silence occurs between the two, allowing Lianshi to regain control of her breathing. Sun Shang Xiang meanwhile, was holding her hand tightly for comfort much to Lianshi's gratitude.
"Thank you, Lady Sun Shang Xiang. Your presence is comforting." Lianshi squeezed her lady's hand firmly, almost fearing of letting go.
"I'm here for you Lianshi, always." Sun Shang Xiang explains lowly but Lianshi shakes her head.
"I'm your lady guard, princess. It's my job to protect you. But… I failed that." She looks down at the matted floor.
"No Lianshi. You didn't do anything wrong. If it weren't for you, we both would've died in that fire." Lianshi shakes her head again.
"It wasn't me who got us out of that fire though." The statement was left hanging to them both.
When they both recovered from their injuries from the fire attack. Sun Ce and Zhou Yu explained that the ones who saved them were the red armoured warrior and the leader of the raiders. Both were surprised and had mixed feelings about being saved by them.
Sure, they were grateful, but both had different views on it. Sun Shang Xiang felt it was an insult to her pride as a member of a Sun clan but can't help but be thankful for saving her and her best friend. Lianshi however, felt like it was a reminder of her failure and inability to protect her loved ones.
"Hey now, don't look so down. We're both fine and that's more important, Lianshi." Sun Shang Xiang looks at her with a bright smile, washing away her troubles almost instantly.
"Hey, wanna go shopping later? I still remember the shop some cool ornaments we can buy. Oh oh, how about the new restaurant that was opening that you said you would take me?" Just like that, Sun Shang Xiang's enthusiasm and bright optimism brought a loving smile onto the lady guards face.
She couldn't help but chuckle at Sun Shang Xiang constant optimism. Both find themselves being in an uplifting atmosphere, no longer feeling drown in their failure but instead finding themselves to be joyful for being here. Outside Lianshi's door was Sun Quan with a small smile on his face. He leans off the wall by her door and heads back into his room.
In Xu province, the city of Xiaopi was bustling in life and peace. The people were smiling, farming, and tilling the fields of the fertile land. Many people were out and about going about their day working or buying from stalls and enjoying their peace. In the centre of the city was a small mansion where the lord had his brothers are living in.
Liu Bei was watching over the city through his balcony, seeing the smiles of the people under his rule. Yes, this is what he wanted for the people of the land. To make a land of virtue and benevolence. Liu Bei was a man whose actions were guided by his emotion and those of the people as such, many peasants and those who follow him find him their benevolent leader and lord.
Its been a long and hard time during this age of chaos but he's glad that he can bring some moments of peace to Xu province. Allowing its people to live without the constant worry of war. Liu Bei furrowed his eyebrows at the thoughts of war. As much as he wanted to pretend that the rest of the world didn't exist, it wouldn't be right to do so or should he believe that this peace would be ever lasting.
No, he needed to somehow find a way to bring this same peace and prosperity to the world and ensure it survives through the ages. As is his grand ambition for the land. A land of peace and benevolence.
"There you are brother. We've been looking for you for a while." Zhang Fei's boisterous voice could be heard throughout the mansion.
"Zhang Fei, quiet your voice. We do not want the hand maidens to be frightened by your remarks and break something again." Guan Yu admonished his sworn brother.
Zhang Fei looked away bashful from the memory of his yelling scaring the handmaidens when he and his brothers were anointed the lords of Xu province.
"Guan Yu, Zhang Fei may be louder than necessary, but it is just who he is. We cannot fault him for that, but we can always show him how to be better." Liu Bei chuckles.
"Hey now, I'm not that bad am i?"
Guan Yu and Liu Bei share a laugh at their brother's expense.
"Sorry, sorry. But what is it that you wanted Zhang Fei? You said you were looking for me?"
"Yes brother. We have a guest with us who would like to meet you." Guan Yu strokes his long silky beard.
The door opens and Liu Bei is greeted by a surprising individual. His eyes widen at the person.
"You are…"
The next day, early in Tongquetai. Lu Lingqi was preparing her amour and cross pike, ready to explore the town and find a place for her to train on her own. She opens the door to her little house, which, like the others in the neighbourhood, has recently been rebuilt and was graciously gifted to her.
The other high-ranking officers of their armies were given the same treatment but some of the soldiers had to pitch up some tents outside and await for some barracks or houses to finish being constructed. Lu Lingqi and her father's army was located at the far east side of the residential area of Tongquetai.
When she stepped outside to face the morning sun, a warm light filled her entire existence. She squints her eyes to adjust to the bright light, then turns her attention to the noises of stalls being set up along the left path. She sees numerous young and old ladies setting up stalls or getting ready to farm in the town's semi-fertile fields. Lu Lingqi shakes her head before walking in the opposite direction towards the town's business district.
From what she learned from Hayden and his siblings; the town was set up in four quarters. The north eastern area was the residential area, where they currently where residing. The northwest was for the commerce and business area. Although there were no merchants coming through, the commerce area was being constructed heavily using the resources the siblings stole from Yuan Shu.
"Hyah!"
Her thoughts were interrupted when she heard sounds of a group of people grunting. She checked her surroundings and vaguely remember this being the barracks for the town.
"Hyah!"
Moving around the wall surrounding the barracks, she found the double doors that led to the courtyard. From there she stepped into the courtyard and saw multiple groups of soldiers practicing their sword and spears.
"Hyah!"
"Again." Lu Lingqi swivels her head to the right to see swordsmen swing their blades and their instructor being the warrior who defeated her father.
Brendan watches the troops under his eyes in front of him. Looking for any mistakes and having to adjust or improve their abilities or form when necessary. Lu Lingqi watches in interest before turning her attention towards the other side of the courtyard where a bunch of spearmen were practicing with shields as well.
The one instructing them was a red armoured warrior. She looked at the giant warrior in surprise. He was coated in metal armour, head to toe, and had a T shaped visor that was too dark to see their face. Not only did he seem strong due to the amount of weight of his armour and longsword he was also almost as tall as her father.
"Hyah!"
Lu Lingqi watched on for a little while before she decided to leave, finding a spot nearby to train without any viewers.
Back to her original thoughts about resource allocation, she didn't know why or understand the logistics, but she'll let them handle it. Such things weren't her forte or should it be. The southeast was where all the storage and engineering equipment for the town lay. Apparently, there were two quarries here in the south and west of Tongquetai in the mountains, giving them ample resources of stones and minerals. This area was almost completed by the time they arrived.
Finally, the southwest area. It was obviously a place for the more wealthy and higher status of people lived in. With luxurious buildings, luscious courtyards and exhilarating entertainment in the corners of the buildings. However, this place was still in disrepair as Lu Lingqi made her way through the area. This place wasn't main concern for reconstruction by the lord of the town despite living here with the siblings and the previous town lord.
As lu Lingqi continues to walk deeper into the area, she contemplates her and her father's situation.
"Simple, now that we won the duel all you have to do is do one favour for me in the future." After her father lost the duel against the warrior named Brendan, they were now bound to do what that cunning strategist, Hayden, wanted.
Thinking about it made her scowl. Her father was the demon of the battlefield and the land's strongest warrior. For her to see her father, the person who she looked up to, be forced to do the bidding of someone else irked her. Stewing in her thoughts angrily, she looked around to find a suitable place to train privately with her crossed pike, Soaring Sky.
-Swish! –
The sound of wind caught her attention. Peaking around the wall that obscured the entire view of the courtyard, she sees Hayden practicing by himself with his Nodachi.
-Swish! –
Lu Lingqi watches how skilled he was with his Nodachi. Each swing she saw performed were almost lightning fast. Swinging his blade in a wide arc, following it up with an back hand upward strike and bringing the blade back down after reaching the conclusion of its arc. Hayden lets out a cooled breath before standing straight and calming himself. Lu Lingqi was impressed by his skill with the Nodachi finding herself drawn to spar against him.
"You can come out now."
Lu Lingqi eyes widened at her presence being announced. She contemplates whether to show herself. A few seconds later she walks away from the wall into the open courtyard where she sees Hayden smiling at her. It irritated her inside, but she didn't want to appear rude to their 'benefactor'.
"Forgive me. I didn't mean to watch you in secret." She bows her head towards him.
Hayden chuckles light heartedly before waving her off.
"Hey, no need to do that. We're both relatively of the same age so no need for formalities." Lu Lingqi raises her eyebrows before simply shrugging.
"Very well master Hayden." She answered succinctly.
"Just call me Hayden, Lu Lingqi." He offers his hand with a warm smile of his, which still irritated her.
Regardless she gave him a firm handshake and notice how callous and strong his hand is. She nods at him as her own greeting.
"So, what brings you here?" Hayden lets go of her hand and keeps his Nodachi by his side.
"Training. I was looking for a quiet place to polish my skills." Lu Lingqi explained.
"Well feel free to train here if you wish, this place isn't set to be reconstructed yet until we finished rebuilding the rest of the residential and commerce districts." He gives her a wide view of the area before moving further down the courtyard.
Lu Lingqi watches Hayden move to the other side of the courtyard to give her more than enough room to practice with her cross pikes. She unclasps the pikes and holds it in both hands. One above her head and one by her side. She turns towards the empty air and imagines phantom opponents she once fought against. A man wearing full body armour, a disciplined gaze and a war trident in his hands.
-Swish! –
Lu Lingqi thrust her pikes forward, skewing the phantom. Hayden looks at Lu Lingqi with interest as she trains. After a few seconds of staring like a deer, Lu Lingqi catches Hayden's eyes on her.
"Can I help you?" a lone eyebrow raises.
"Sorry. Couldn't help but admire your skill." Hayden chuckles.
"Oh…thank you then." Lu Lingqi raised her eyebrow at the sudden praise.
"Just saying how I see it, Lu Lingqi."
She nods slowly and returns to her training. Hayden watches for a bit before he returns to his own. Elsewhere in the Tongquetai, the home of Tong Li's home. Han Jin was still sleeping in with his body sprawled around the bed and him slightly drooling. After the intense and heart wrenching duel between Lu Bu and Bredan, he was relieved but mentally tired from the excitement and his enduring speech.
As soon as the fight concluded and the army of Lu Bu was integrated into the city, this worried many people including him and Tong Li. Many had assumed that the wager for the duel was for them leave when Lu Bu was defeated but Hayden had different plans. He remembered Lu Bu's giving him a intimidating stare, giving him shivers whenever he thought about it yesterday. After much discussion about Hayden's decision to let Lu Bu and his army to stay in the city, both Tong Li and Han Jin relented but made sure that they didn't discover Han Jin's identity.
A knock on the door started to stir the sleepy Han Jin.
"Hmm…" Han Jin moved to his side and opening his eyes slowly.
He groans and sees Tong Li entering his room with his cane tapping the ground, making sure to not walk into the newly refurbished room. When they started raiding Yuan Shu's supply cart, some had a few commodities on it that could be placed in rooms for decorative purposes. Han Jin refused to have them as he thought it was counterproductive to have such luxury items on him, but the Xiongs and Tong Li wanted him to have it for safe keeping and if he wanted to, later he could sell the items to travelling merchants for coin.
"Are you awake, young Emperor?" Tong Li was looking down at Han Jin but not directly at him.
'Right. Keep forgetting that he's blind.' Han Jin sighs and sits up groggily on the bed.
"Yeah, I'm awake now, Tong Li."
"And how are you feeling?" Tong Li sits down on the bed next to the young emperor.
"Just peachy." Han Jin grumbles and yawns.
Tong Li nods and sits there with him quietly. Han Jin notices the awkward silence and clears his throat.
"Hey Tong Li. Is there…uh something you wanted to say to me? You usually don't wake me up this early in the morning." He tilts his head towards the town lord.
Tong Li says nothing, only humming as if in thought. A few more seconds of silence follows.
"Many were impressed by your speech yesterday. You ignited the hearts of your men and the spirits of your officers." His voice was even yet sounded proud of Han Jin.
"Oh uh. You heard all that?" Blushing, Han Jin looked away from his gaze which was ironic.
"The whole city heard your passionate speech your imperial highness and it was simply inspiring to hear. I'm sure everyone would agree on that." Tong Li lets out a hearty chuckle.
"Really? I was just putting up a front for everyone. I doubt I can do something like that again." Han Jin blushed before turning his gaze to the floor as his voice went an octave lower.
"I believe that you always had that charisma, Han Jin. All you needed was a little push in the right direction, or an incentive to act." The blind man explained, letting out a small breath.
"Well, I'll try my best to continue giving out speeches then." Shrugging his shoulders before he stands up, stretching his body and hearing his joints popping.
"Speeches are inspirational if they're meaningful Han Jin. Take it from this blind old man. If you truly wish to unite this land as the emperor than you must understand the hearts of your people first. Once you do, you can give them hope during their darkest hour." Han Jin turned to see Tong Li staring at him with his milky white eyes.
"…Right."
Han Jin's eyes droops slightly at the advice. During his two months here at Tongquetai and living with Tong Li, he experienced the life of a simple peasant. Tilling the farm, helping with reconstructing buildings and getting to know the life of the few denizens that lived here. The women and children had lived harsh times during the yellow turban rebellion and Dong Zhuo's tyranny.
In truth, his absence and negligence could be acclimated to their situation. Had he just stood up against the tyranny and the chaos in the first place this wouldn't have happened, but he couldn't change the past. He couldn't begin to understand their pain, if only a small portion but never fully. Tong Li smiles at the emperor and stands himself up with his cane.
"Thank you, Han Jin. I believe that you can live up to your ambitions and bring back the peace of the Han Empire." Tong Li grasp Han Jin shoulder, squeezing it firmly and reassuringly.
The door closes as Tong Li leaves Han Jin alone in his room. his thoughts about Tong Li's advice swirls around in his head along with his self-doubt. Sighing Han Jin just put on his white tunic and long black pants, opening his door, and leaving his room.
Instantly, the smell of herbal incense infiltrates his nose from downstairs. Along with the smell, there was also the sound of cooking in the kitchen. Heading down and entering the kitchen, Han Jin comes to see Taylah in her usual spot. Cooking breakfast for her siblings for when they're done training and for the rest when they arrived.
"Morning Taylah."
"Hmm? Oh, good morning Han Jin." Taylah gave Han Jin that ever-sweet smile of hers.
"What are you cooking?" Tilting his head and coming around the pot.
"Pork broth with rice and tea or water." She stirs the pot using a ladle.
"Mind setting the table for me? Brendan, Hayden and Igris should be finishing up their rounds with the troops." Han Jin nodded and grabbed some plates from the cupboards and setting them on the table.
The front door is heard being opened and sounds of footsteps were being pressed against the wooden floor.
"That must be them. Talk about convenient." Han Jin and Taylah chuckles.
The door to the living room opened and as all three warriors entered. Igris was still in his red armour meanwhile Hayden and Brendan seemed washed up and out of their armour. Brendan was wearing a dark grey tunic meanwhile Hayden wore a normal grey tunic.
"Hey guys." Brendan attempted to stretch but soon regrets it as his wounds and bruises acted up.
He grunts and winces in pain before slowly lowering his arm, feeling the burning sensations underneath his bandages. Igris walked up to his young lord for assistance.
"I'm fine Igris." He reassured their family's warrior/caretaker, taking in a deep breath and awaited the pain fade away.
Igris didn't budge and helps Brendan down to his seat by the dinner table, much to Brendan's displeasure. Hayden, meanwhile, had just left to get Tong Li upstairs while Han Jin and Taylah finished cooking. Setting up breakfast for today and washing their hands they sat down on the table.
"How are you feeling Brendan? Your fight against Lu Bu was amazing but you were seriously injured." Han Jin voice was filled with worry.
Yesterday Han Jin hadn't seen Brendan ever since his duel against Lu Bu. The stress from the stakes and the mental energy he used made him tired yesterday to properly check up on his friend.
"Like I said to Igris. I'm doing fine." Brendan grunted but nodded his head at the armoured warrior.
"No need to be grumpy Brendan. Igris and Han Jin just care about your wellbeing." Taylah reprimanded.
Before Brendan could respond, the door opened. Hayden and Tong Li enter the room and both taking their respective seat.
"Hmm. Your breakfast smells grand as always little princess." Tong Li smiles at Taylah.
"Awww. Thanks grandpa Li." Taylah was smiling in pride at being complimented for her cooking.
"I agree with Tong Li Taylah. Your cooking is amazing." Han Jin added with a drool and his eyes glued to the pork broth.
"Well, what are we waiting for? Let's dig in." Hayden chuckles and proceeds to grab his own bowl.
Everyone nodded and followed as well. each grabbing their own bowls with rice and eating the pork broth centred in the middle of the dining table. once everyone grabbed their food, they started to talk about their plans today while eating as their laughter set a warm atmosphere during their morning breakfast.
Han Jin took a bite of his rice and some pork meat, sitting back and savouring the mouthful of food in his mouth. Swallowing his pork down he sits back and watch the dynamic happening between everyone here at the table. Hayden chatting with Igris with a witty smile while the silent warrior was serenely eating his food with his helmet on which only irked Han Jin's curiosity under Igris's helmet.
Disregarding his itching curiosity he hears Tong Li chuckle. Turning his head to the left to see Brendan, Taylah and Tong Li making conversation about Taylah's stories of when she first cooked much to her charging. Han Jin chuckles at this happy moment in his life and arguably the happiest moment ever. It was like spending time with his family. Family.
"Hmm?" Hayden notices Han Jin's despondent look and stops talking.
Breakfast with family. Laughing with his family. It's been too long since he ever felt this feeling that it was almost foreign to him. The last time he remembers anything remotely similar was when he was just a small child. Before all the chaos. Han Jin eyes grow dimmer when he keeps replaying his life in his mind, the suffering, the responsibility, the tyranny an-
-Flick!-
"Ow!" Han Jin rubbed his stinging forehead and winces.
"Hey, your foods getting cold Han Jin. Don't want Taylah to get up you like last time, right?" Hayden gives him a toothy grin.
Han Jin blinks owlishly at Hayden at him before everyone's attention was now towards Han Jin.
"You better not waste food Han Jin. Emperor or no, I will kick your butt if you don't eat all of it. Do you understand?" Taylah practically left no room to argue from the emperor.
"Now now, Taylah. Let Han Jin -"
The door burst open and everyone at the table readied their weapons at the sudden intruder. When the door to the living room opened, the soldier was greeted with multiple blades at his neck.
"W-W-Wait!" He stammered and yelped at the many blades guided to his throat.
"Oh… its you. I'm assuming you have a good reason for abruptly barging into the town lord's home?" Brendan said sternly as he and everyone else sheathed their weapons.
Han Jin let out a sigh of relief he didn't know he was holding along with Tong Li.
"Y-Yes my lords. There's a young girl here who demands an audience with you three along with Lu Bu and Zhang Liao." The soldier held himself properly as he explained.
"Who is it?" Taylah asked sceptically.
"Apparently its Dong Zhuo's granddaughter." This shocked everyone.
The three siblings were surprised to hear that the granddaughter of Dong Zhuo was here in Tongquetai. This place has yet to gain any traction and Igris having directed all information he could away, Tongquetai was practically non-existent. Tong Li was also surprised and worried what the granddaughter of the deceased tyrant wanted. Igris meanwhile only stood silently wondering about how this girl somehow found out about Tongquetai and slipped past his patrols.
"WHAT?!" Han Jin suddenly stands up and slammed his palms down onto the table loudly, causing the plates and food to slightly jump and everyone to look at him in startlement.
Hayden winces slightly at the high-pitched scream and sighs.
"Tell her that we'll be there" The soldier nodded leaving the room and house as he recovers from his eardrums being burst.
Han Jin sat back down onto the table and slouches into his chair. His hands running through his hair frantically as he processes the news. His breath was pacing and his eyes were practically balling from his eyes.
"No no no no no no no no. She can't be here. She can't be." He muttered almost incoherently.
Han Jin was now sweating and continued to talk under his breath. Everyone in the room looked at Han Jin, at each other before looking back at Han Jin. Hayden walked up to Han Jin and placed a hand on his shoulder. Han Jin flinched and looked up at Hayden with an almost frantic stare.
"Hey calm down Han Jin." He firmly squeezed his shoulder, soothing his rising anxiety.
Han Jin relaxed and remembered where he was. He let out several deep breaths while everyone around him comforted him. It took a good second for him to finally calm down before anyone started to question his reaction.
"You feel better now?" Taylah asked worriedly.
Han Jin let out a final shaky breath before nodding.
"I'm guessing you have bad memories of Dong Zhuo's granddaughter huh?" Brendan waited for his response.
"Yeah… yeah." He sighs before elaborating onwards.
"It's been a while but I still remember how Dong Zhuo treated me harshly but his granddaughter? In private she usually tormented me anytime she could because of her relation towards Dong Zhuo."
"And you didn't report this to anyone? I found it hard to believe that anyone would allow the torment of the emperor for so long." Brendan frowned.
"I did but everyone was just too afraid of what Dong Zhuo would've done to them if news got out that his granddaughter was abusing the emperor. So, they just instead admonished me on the basis that I was lying to get out of my responsibility, or I was abusing my power as emperor." Han Jin looked down at the memory of being ostracised and berated unjustly.
His answers didn't lighten up the mood in the room. everyone was now fuming at the news of how he was treated in Dong Zhuo's rule and wanted nothing but to kill the bastards that let this happened. Tong Li sighed and shook his head.
"I see. And now what do you wish to do with Dong Bai, your imperial Highness?" Tong Li asked, giving him a subtle reminder.
Han Jin simply looked up at all of them with conflicted emotions. He closed his eyes and took a breath before resolving himself. As he opened his eyes, they were filled with slight trepidation but now had a fiery light inside of them.
"First, lets find out what Dong Bai wants." Han Jin suggested calmly, which in turn surprised many people in the room besides Tong Li.
"Wait, you want to find out what she wants?" Taylah looked at him surprised and confused.
"Yeah, I'm with Taylah. Why? I mean she Is your tormentor, I kind of expected you wanting us to… yknow…" Hayden did a stabbing motion with a invisible sword.
"I… I do want to get my own revenge for all the pain she caused me and everyone else but if she has something we need, more importantly what the people here needs, then its best we hear her out first. But if it turns out to be a ruse, then I want her to be slayed immediately." Han Jin ordered.
Everyone was conflicted but nodded, nonetheless. Hayden narrowed his eyes as his mind went to work about the situation.
"Then we'll be off." The siblings nodded and started to walk out of Tong Li's home.
Han Jin stood up to follow but was blocked by Igris. He looked up confused at the gesture before Hayden explained.
"Sorry but we can't have you coming out yet, Han Jin. Dong Bai knows your identity, no? then its best if you stay here with Tong Li. Don't worry, Igris will be here to protect you and the old man." Hayden gave Han jin his signature smile.
Han Jin was disgruntled at the idea of hiding again. Like how he tried to hide from Dong Bai in the past in Chang 'An and Luoyang but he sighed and nodded. Everyone gave him their own smiles before the siblings left the house with Igris staying behind in the house with the town lord and young emperor.
Han Jin sat back down onto his chair with Igris leaning on the wall, looking out the window, watching the pedestrians and soldiers roaming about the streets. Tong Li nodded before he sat down opposite of Han Jin.
"Will they be alright?" Han Jin asked nobody.
Tong Li smiled and gave him a nod. Igris turned his head at the young emperor before nodding himself at the statement. Despite taking a vow of silence, he wasn't going to ignore the young emperor's plight.
"I'm sure they'll be fine. It's only been a few months since you have arrived, but you've seen how capable they are." The blind man reaffirmed him.
Han Jin remembers the siblings' abilities and skills in combat and domestic affairs. Brendan's charismatic presence and exceptional skills made him a great leader and a even better ally to always depend on. Taylah's calming and reassuring aura was always welcomed and from what he heard from soldiers; on the battlefield she was a force to be reckoned with. Igris, the ever stalwart and loyal warrior.
The silent protector of the Xiong family and essential to him as well, was always there whenever a situation arise. He never falters and never wavers in his duty to protect and serve. And finally, Hayden, his first friend and vassal. Ever since he met him on that fateful night, Hayden was always there for him and guided Han Jin through whatever tribulations came their way.
He's charismatic like his brother, skilled at fighting like his sister and out of the three siblings, was the most tactically sound and ingenious of the three. Against the likes of Dong Bai who was essentially a bully, he felt like an idiot for worrying about them. especially after all they have done against Yuan Shu and defeating Lu Bu, if a fatigued and weaken Lu Bu.
"Yeah you're right. They'll be fine." Han Jin smiled at Tong Li.
"This is not fine." Hayden grumbled as he looked on the fields of Tongquetai with Taylah, Brendan, Lu Bu, Chen Gong, Lu Lingqi and finally Zhang Liao on the wall.
Dong Bai was standing haughty on the grass with an army of fifty-thousand men behind her along with Li Jue and Guo Si. Dong Bai looked on the town with a smirk and turned her gaze towards the top of the wall where we were posted on. On her waist on the side of her dress was her chain and ball that had spikes protruding out of it.
"There you are Lu Bu. I've been wondering where you've been scurrying about. Who knew that a mindless beast like you would have been hiding here with your tail between your leg after losing to Cao Cao. And it seems you have your dogs with you too, how fitting." Dong Bai let out an arrogant chuckle as she demeaned Lu Bu and his men.
This caused Lu Bu and Hua Xiong to snarl and growl at Dong Bai's comment but the calmer and more focused people among the groups were somewhat unaffected.
"Well she's certainly a rude little girl isn't she?" Brendan chuckled and rolled his shoulders.
"To think that this insect dare to insult me! I should've crushed her back at Chang 'an." Lu Bu grunted.
"She's infuriating still after the death of Dong Zhuo. Perhaps I can have her join him in the afterlife." Hua Xiong said darkly, preparing his hammer onto his hand.
"Now now, master Hua Xiong, master Lu Bu. Let us not be hasty here. From the looks of it her army is quite strong, and they outnumber us almost ten to one. If we do the wrong move, we'll surely be demolished before we could do anything." Chen Gong mediated.
"Father, master Chen Gong's right. It's only been a few days since we just arrived here, and our troops had just started to recover. If we attacked now, we would surely lose against Dong Bai." Lu Lingqi soothed her father's rage.
"hrrgh, fine. But anymore that comes out of her mouth then I'm shutting her up permanently." Lu Bu growled.
Zhang Liao and Gao Shun breathed a sigh of relief at their lord's patience and nodded at master Chen Gong's and Lady Lu Lingqi's ability to placating his wrath.
"Then if we're talking about a small parley then its best if we go then. As the protectors of this town its our responsibility to settle this and yes that includes you guys as well." Hayden smiled at Lu Bu and his entourage.
Lu Bu grunted, barely acknowledging them, Hua Xiong scowled, Chen Gong nodded his thanks with his ever-conniving smile, Lu Lingqi and Zhang Liao simply looked at us, sceptical and Gao Shun simply staring off at the army before us.
"Well then, what are we waiting for?" Taylah sighed and jumped off the wall.
"She's eager. By the way, if we do fight. Master Chen Gong, I want you to take charge of our forces when the fighting starts." Hayden chuckled and jumped off as well.
"Hopefully we won't be seeing you guys down here for a fight… Hopefully." Brendan walked backwards off the wall with a small smile to the shocked faces present.
Everyone watched as how hooks were thrown again onto the side of the wall, slowing the siblings fall as they landed on the ground safely. Everyone was still shocked to see it again but being close was a different experience, seeing someone falling in front of you was somehow more surprising than seeing it from afar.
Taylah landed on the ground silently which was then followed by Hayden and Bredan. Dong Bai, Guo Si and Li Jue as well as the army behind them had watched as the three siblings suddenly jumped off the walls of Tongquetai and in midair hooked themselves onto the ledge of the wall to slow their fall and landing safely onto the field.
"… wow…." Li Jue simply said in astonishment as he and everyone watched was amazed by the athletic ability performed.
The three siblings then walked towards the army by themselves. After shaking off their amazement, Dong Bai simply scoffed at the three. A few seconds later there was quite a distance between them.
"Who knew that this rabble of a town had interesting people like you? Do you have a tradition of making people fall off your walls? If so, I must ask how many died in their attempt?" Dong Bai gave the siblings a condescending laugh.
"Fortunately, the people of Tongquetai don't jump off walls and do what we did. But It's a pleasure of having you here Lady Dong Bai." Hayden gave his smile to the young lady.
"Well, aren't you quite the charmer. And you're right it is a pleasure to meet me." Dong Bai smirked at them.
"I try my best." He shrugs before Taylah smacked his shoulder.
"Oh. Is that so? Then do you also grovel just as well? I would very much like to found out." Dong Bai smirks at him, wanting to goad a reaction out of them but they simply smiled or were indifferent.
"What do you want Dong Bai." Taylah stepped forward with a stern glare.
"I want to know who I'm talking, pretty girl. And its 'Lady' Dong Bai." Dong Bai mocked.
Taylah narrowed her eyes at her, getting frustrated at Dong Bai's tone and attitude towards her and her family. Taylah holds her spear tightly but before she could do anything rash, Brendan stops her.
"I'm Brendan. This here is Taylah my little sister and Hayden my little brother." He stepped forward In between everyone.
"So, all three of you are family. How nice. To be honest I can't stomach the thought of having a sibling. If I did, I'd probably just torture them on the daily and make them my servant." Dong Bai said lazily.
Back on the wall where Lu Bu and the rest where waiting, the archers were sneakily preparing their arrows onto their bows by the order of Chen Gong. Better to prepared then to be caught off guard. Especially when the siblings where essentially stranded.
Lu Bu, now fed and rested, felt like engaging in battle once again. His thirst for an opponent was now arising the longer this farce continued. If it were up to him, he would've immediately attacked the little pest and be done with her. Gripping Sky piercer firmly, he continues gauging the army in front of him and where to make his presence known.
"But back to business. Surrender to me and bring me Lu Bu's and Zhang Liao's head or I'll raze this town to the ground." Dong Bai smirked at us as her hand settled on her hip.
This caused the three of our faces to go blank and stare at the granddaughter of Dong Zhuo. The sudden change in demeanour slightly unsettled Dong Bai and her vassals but Dong Bai was undeterred despite feeling quite uncomfortable herself.
"Are all three of you deaf or something? I haven't been given an answer or are you just too unintelligent to even do so. Honestly, I should've expected it. It makes sense that those under Lu Bu would have the same brain as him." Dong Bai let out a haughty laughter.
Hayden was the first to recover and gave Dong Bai a small smile.
"Is that it? You come here and demand us to bring the demon and his officers? You must think so highly of yourself, Lady Dong Bai." Hayden smirked.
Brendan kept his face passive and neutral meanwhile Taylah joined her brother. Those on the wall watched on with a keen eye wondering what Hayden was going to do.
"Why you…! Don't you see the army behind me and where you're standing? I could make you all kneel before me with a single order!" Dong Bai pulled out her ball and chain which caused everyone to pull out their weapons.
"Careful now, what you do next will determine how this ends Lady Dong Bai." Hayden settles for a friendly tone and a small smile.
Dong Bai's army prepared their weapons and in response, Hayden's forces on the wall prepared their bows and arrows. Brendan and Taylah follow suit while Hayden had a smile on his face. Dong Bai was getting irritated at Hayden's arrogance and nonchalance towards her. She wound up her chain ball and threw it at his face. However, it was deflected by a long white spear, causing the chain and ball to return to its owner.
"Tch!" Dong Bai caught her steel spiked ball and left it hanging by her side.
Taylah stepped forward with Falling star and Nighthawk in both her hands. She stared coldly towards the daughter of Dong Zhuo as if looking at an annoyance which did nothing but irked her further. Dong Bai threw her chained ball at Taylah in a wide arc. As it was travelling towards Taylah, she simply dashed towards Dong Bai with her spears in hand.
The chain ball misses and Taylah jumps over the chain, thrusting her spear towards Dong Bai. Seeing the twin spears ready to skewer her, Dong Bai jumps back and narrowly avoiding the attack and pulls the chain towards herself. Taylah seeing the action performs a backflip, jumping over the ball and landing onto the ground with her spears by her side. Dong Bai catches her weapon and starts spinning it. Li Jue was the few who snapped out of his stupor and rallied the troops.
"What are you doing, commence the attack now!" He pulled out his massive mace and charged towards the brothers.
"Well… this is the worst scenario." Hayden pulled out his Nodachi and ready himself for a bloodbath.
"Sometimes you can't talk your way out of everything Hayden." Brendan had already charged towards the army himself with Ashfell in hand.
"This scenario is what we're all too familiar with." Hayden chuckles with a despondent tone.
Hayden shook his head as arrows began to rain down on Dong Bai's troops, then looked behind him. As soldiers streamed out of Tongquetai's gate, Chen Gong took leadership of the men and other officers. Turning back to face the troops in front of him, he closed his eyes and drained all emotion from his expression. He opened his eyes and ran ahead to the first battle for the emperor.
Ok Ok, first things first Thanks for reading and honestly I didn't think i would still get this far. Right now I'm writing Chapter 11 so I'm kinda bouncing between writing and editing my chapters, but for my thoughts on this chapter.
Firstly, the introduction to Cao Cao and his cousins. Cao Cao, like any other smart character is difficult to write. I'm no Aizen level smart but i'll try to write complicated plans for such types of characters while keeping their niches. Also about his kids, they really aren't really kids here. They're around the siblings age of 15 to 20. As i was thinking it, i didn't think they had a word for teenager but if they do in Chinese i wouldn't mind learning about. This way some timing continuity can stay somewhat consistent.
Secondly, the Sun family. While i wasn't so sure about who to focus here, i figured that it was important to write about the person most impacted which was Lianshi. Possibly, i wanted to write about Zhou Yu but knowing him he isn't such a person to confide his insecurities so soon. Maybe with Xiao Qiao but its kinda hard to tell. So, figured that i save his moment later into the story with other characters. Plus this is still a fanfic so some self-insert situation must happen.
Thirdly, Liu Bei. The benevolent Liu Bei. Honestly, i think out of all of them he's the hardest to write in character for. Someone who's so optimistic? positive? is seemingly hard to write. Don't get me wrong, i love thinking about the best and most peaceful outcome too. What troubles me is how'll he interact with the OCs.
Fourth, Lu Lingqi. I have somewhat of a plan for her. she's one of my favourite characters in game and so in was kinda difficult thinking writing her conflict with the siblings. but i think i've have an idea about where she could develop as a character and a person. Lu Bu himself though is easy to write but hard to... stick closely true to himself. As you can see, he's in a spot of being used and as everyone knows he's not the best person to rely on if you weren't under him which isn't saying much.
Finally, Dong Bai's introduction. Now we have most of the wildcards into one place. If you don't know her she's the granddaughter of Dong Zhuo and in Dynasty warrior 9's hypothetical routes. Essential she's a worse Dong Zhuo but more charismatic. i won't say anymore of this since the next chapter will expand on her situation.
Overall, i enjoyed writing this chapter. There are some typos or grammer mistakes i may have missed thinking back on this but eh. I'll improve my writing later. Thanks for reading and have a good day :D
