Mo Ling's Bronze Spire Castle

[Sun Ce]

This materpiece of architecture was made before the time of Sun Jian, though the architects had not yet set foot in Jiang Dong. The castle is much like a European gothic cathedral, as the theme is height, pointed spires that graze the clouds, and light. The outer terrance is made of bronze, and in many places a hard stone that shines the same color. Inside, however, it is a palace. There is a round wall around a large tower in the center, which goes up high enough to see outsie the city.

Inside the castle is fortune at every turn. The entrence is lined with silver, marble walls housing paintings of many in the Sun Family whom passed in the years before. Down the main hall, a small niche holds the presence of a small statue of Sun Tzu. In his hand is the Ancestrial Blade of Wu, and in the pedistal in front of him is the famous Art of War. From there, it branches left and right. Right is the way to the coincil chamber, and left is the way up to the throne, after a long flight of stairs.

[Sun Jian]

Sun Jian has little time to lounge about in the great castle of Wu, he must set off as soon as the army is ready to once again move out, alas this could be day. Sun Ce was in command of the army for the moment, and he eagerly awaited word from his generals. His audiance had been requested as Xu Chang on the topic of an alliance, though he did not intend to go without the support of the Wu army behind him.

Sun Jian glanced at the throne beside him, not his own - the once fo Sun Ce, he was impressed with the ability of the man he still remembered as his little boy. Not so long ago the prospect of him leading the army seemed to much a task for him, now it was second nature the the man. Sun Jian sat back in his seat, his mind wondering where his son was - it seemed for the moment at least his ears were for Wu's gnerals. The was much to be done in the kingdom, he was thankful to have the people to do it.

[Sun Ce]

*Standing aside Sun Jian was his second-born son, Sun Quan. He wore a red robe, decorated with tiger fur around the collar, and the red faded into the decorations of tiger fur at the bottom. He had his hair cut rather short, held back into a bun, tied by a red bandana. His face had a small cut that was almost like a scar, which was made when he almost lost his life while unifying Jiang Dong with his father and brother. He had a decorated blade tied to his belt, one of many in his family. It was called the Sun Blade. Sun Ce carried one as well, waiting for his turn to assume the role as king of Wu, handed the Sun Ancestral Blade. The Sun Blade was a silver blade with carving along the center, and a red hilt and handle, decorated with sapphires. Quan spoke out when Jian rose.*

"So, we're going to ask for an alliance with Wei, are we? I don't really fancy this idea, but I'll be damned before I stay in Mo Ling while my father and brother travel into enemy territory. Please, wait here, I am going to seek out Ce."


*He left, giving Jian little time to answer. He was young, quick to make his mind. A little too jumpy at the moment, but who could blame him? History was being made, Wu becoming a dominant power. His father and brother had forged an emperor shoulder to shoulder, while he did little other then get wounded and almost die, setting the Conquerors back. Looking around for a little time, he folowed the trail of men to find Sun Ce by his Fine White Horse. Zhi Liang, always a loyal bodyguard, was standing next to him, a smile across his face. That wasn't usual for this broad man. He was a year older then Ce, and saved the man's life at a young age. They were ambushed by mountain lions when Ce was only 17, and Liang killed one and made the others run, lobbing off another's leg. As always, his long black hair was brought back, held by the bandana. His sword, Chrysamere, was strapped to his back.*


"Here comes the Prince of Wu, the fantastic Sun Quan."

*He was in a good mood, as all three of them were laughing. Sun Ce, Zhi Liang, and Xilai Shao. Xilai was leaning against a mighty black steed, one that was bred to his liking. His spear was in the dirt aside him, the shaft aimed upwards. He was enjoying himself as well. This man was by far one of the greatest warriors in China. He was an unmatched spearman, as well as a grand horse rider. He wore a black helmet with a feather at the front, and red armor fit for a commander. His spear's blade had a sharp-looking tail to it, which could hook a man's flesh off his face. He approached Quan.*


"What is it, Prince Quan, you need?"

"Brother, Ce. I ask of you to consider taking me along. I know you are going to Xu Chang with father, and likely with Xilai and Zhi. I know-"

*Sun Ce cut in. His smile left his face. He cared for his brother, but since he'd almost lost his life, he's held him on a tight leash, being very impatient with him and letting him do nothing without consent of him or Sun Jian. Quan knew he came from good intentions, but it was beginning to bug him. Sun Ce rolled his eyes.*

"Last I checked, you were in danger behind enemy lines. No, breother Quan, you shall not come along. I know something is going on here that is out of the ordinary. Wei is expecting us, and Guo Jia is preparing an assembly in Xu Chang. But damnit! Something is going to happen, and it will be grave. Quan, please understand-"

"Damnit, Ce! Understand what? I made a mistake, and you'll never let me see anything involving danger in my life. You are the heir, but I am right after, should you find no suitable heir. You cannot see that I have grown, and can handle myself? Very well, brother. Go with father, and your two friends here. have a nice time celebrating your alliance. Please, just tell me about it when you return!"

*Sun Quan stormed away, retreating to his quarters in the Bronze Spire Castle. Sun Ce was, of course, upset that it came down to it. Xilai came up, patting him on the back with a smile, encouraging him with the same attituge he had his whole life.*

"Come on, Ce. Don't let it bother you. I share your feeling, as Wei is known for sly tactics, led by the Hero of Chaos. So long as Cao Cao leads Wei, there is a threat in the North. Be it an ally or enemy. Now come, the armies are ready. I shall inform Lord Jian. Nothing shall happen to you, so long as you have that sword-waving madman at your side."

*Zhi smiled, turning away. Shao took his horse, mounting and riding up to the Castle. Sun Ce took his white horse, mounting, while Liang mounted his brown horse. They rode to the gate, with the army following, Sun Ce lightening up a bit. But he still had the feeling he could not push aside.*

*In the castle, Shao informed Jian that the army, along with Ce and Liang, were waiting at the gates for him. He would acompany the lord to the army.*

[Er Aorong]

After a long march from the "uncivilized" lands, Er Aorong arrived at the capital of the Wu kingdom. The palace that housed all the inner workings of the kingdom was huge, by far the largest building Er had ever seen. He finally reached the large doors of the palace after having been mezmerized by the glow the bronze let off to the light of the sun. He approached the guards stationed there and spoke,

"I am Er Aorong, I wish simple to meet with the Liege whom you follow."

[Sun Jian]

(I don't think the site is ready just yet, but meh)

*Sun Jian watched his sons squabble and the drama play out before him, he didn't was Sun Quan to accompany him to Xu Chang - it was dangerous that much he knew, and Sun Ce was more than capable of handling himself, but Sun Quan was the one who practially ran the kingdom in terms of domestic affairs. In their absence he knew the kingdom would be in good hands, with the turmoil unfolding around them this was the time many keen officers would seek a leader to follow. Appearing at the palace only to be met by ministers wouldn't do at all.*

*As Xilai Shao informed Sun Jian, that the army was ready, Sun Jian's eyes lit up - he was not a man that was fond of waiting. He stood up instantly and turned to the servents beside him, Sun Quan was to be in total power in Sun Jian's absence - he was to have no fewer privaliges than if the kingdom was his own. Sun Jian stood up, he was eager to begin moving. First however he spotted a new arrival to the palace. The great build of the man clad in armor was enough to earn him a position in Wu's army.*

"Very good Er Aorong - if you wish for a lord to serve the Sun family shall provide. We march to Xu Chang soon, Sun Quan will however give you whatever you need to cement your position in Wu."

[Er Aorong]

Er Aorong was surprised at the invite by this man, but he was not about to turn it done either. He noticed all the men standing around and when he was informed they were set to march his curiosity was peaked.

"Lord Sun, as my first order under your banner I would like to accompany you on this trip. I am completely unaware of why this army is about to set out but the fact remains, an army is about to set out. I would like to begin earning my keep immediately, please put to use the skill I bring to this kingdom."

Er was eager to get something done, he was tired of wandering aimlessly. He also wanted to have a chance to protect the man who was generous to offer him a place in Wu, such a man was worth his respect and protection if the need arises.

[Sex machine]

Wearing a red robe with golden dragons stiched into the arms and chest,a tall figure walked towards the Palace,the figure with his long dark hair and stubbly face attracted the looks of many women.Each person he passed stared,on each hip the man wore a master crafted katana,the result from a trip to japan.Under his robes he wore light armor,nothing special.

As he got closer to the guards he felt his breathing pattern speed up and his heart begin to beat faster,well,Zhou Yu though,I guess it begins here.He stood in front of the guards and with a smile begun speaking in his deep melodice tone.

"I am Zhou Yu,I come to serve the Sun family and Wu."

His voice put all those who's ears it reached at ease.Everything about him inspired calmness.As he awaited a response he gave another brilliant smile.

[Sun Ce]

*Sun Ce turned his head with a bright smile on his face, the frown dissapearing in a second. His old friends, Zhou Yu had arrived. The man had helped them in taking Jiang Dong the years earlier, but had never actually served them. Finally, he was ready to join the ranks of Wu. Ce dismounted, embracing his old friend with a hug.*

"My old friend, Zhou Yu! How it pleases me that you are here. Sir, I welcome you fully to Wu. I must cut this reunion short, however, as my father and I are off to Xu Chang. Please, go to the Castle and aid Sun Quan with the foreign affairs."

*Meanwhile, Sun Quan took a seat at the throne while Sun Jian began to leave. He buried his forhead in his hands, deep in thought.*

[Sex machine]

It had only been a few years but Sun Ce,looked much older,wiser and stronger.Zhou smiled at seeing his old friend and laughed happily hearing of heading to Xu Chang worry entered the mind of the young strategist.

"Lord Ce,it has been to long,but Xu Chang?Surely the Cao's have some plot I would disagree with you going.......but I am only here to serve,I will go to master Quan immediatly."

Giving a final hug to Ce he turned on his heel,and marched into the palace.Although he would rather be with Ce he knew that Sun Quan would no doubt require an advisor.Seeing Sun Jian Zhou bowed low until he faded out of view and made his way to the throne.

As he saw Sun Quan,head in his hands,he could instantly feel the problems on the young man's shoulders.Yu smiled as he remembered Quan as a youngster,wanting to be like his father and brother.Bowing Zhou spoke in a calm tone.

"Lord Quan.........I am pleased to see you it has been too long.Ce sent me to help you in foreign matters.But I sense something troubles you.What?"

Frowning Yu stared hard at the future ruler of Wu

[Sun Jian]

(K the site still hasen't opened yet!)

*Sun Jian turned to what was evidently his new general, he had a grin behind his teeth - talented men were not usually this easy to come by. However for what they were planning he might need all the help he could come by.*

"Er Aorong, such an offer is most welcome - we leave soon for Xu Chang. Guo Jia has offered us an alliance, and in the current state it would benefit Wu greatly as then we would be able to strike west while Liu Bei cannot oppose us. If you are willing you may lead the rear guard of the army, for the moment generals is one thing we are short of."

*Sun Jian glanced toward his sons, and Sun Ce talking to Zhou Yu a talented old friend of his. He felt the kingdom was safe with Sun Quan in command and Zhou Yu in charge of the army. At this point he leaned towards Er Aorong and sopke so only he could hear.*

"Sun Ce is to lead the main army, he is talented but still young - I would like to ask would you keen an eye on him for the time being, this trip will be dangerous - I do not want anything to happen to him."

[Er Aorong]

Er responded to his request with a simple nod and said,

"Aye my liege, it will be done."

Er sent a messenger to the gates to inform his army to prepare for the march. He would accompany the men and at the request of Sun Jian, watch over Sun Ce. He seemed dark in his request as if an impending cloud hung over his head. Er would be vigilant in his duties and watch for any threats to any of the members of the Wu family.

[Sun Liao]

Sun Liao enters the palace from the city and strides inside the palace. There he notices Sun Ce, Sun Jian, Er Aorong, and Zhou Yu. He then nods and speaks.

"Uncle, cousin, generals. My lords, I have come to ask if I am able to help in any kingdom matters? While you are gone I can watch over the city, or I could even come with. Anything you desire.

Liao bows down and then looks to Ce and Jian awaiting a reply.

[Saerin Zei]

[glow=blue,2,300]"Such a gathering. It seems my intentions are shared with others who feel for the same passion within this realm as I do...."[/glow]

Hushed words, a whisper into the ears of those who could not hear. The voice sharp, yet calm and collected as the source broke away from the claws of outreaching darkness. He had merely walked past the guards towards this castle. Not knowing if they knew he had passed or not, nor caring to even take the slightest of glances their way. He had but one single mission in mind. A mission which answered, hell, even looked towards no one but to who led this country and its people…

The body was nothing but a dark lump, shrouded in a cloak which emphasized the shadows within. His movement swift, graceful. Each step was taken with a sort of light touch to the polished surface below the sole; heel first, then the toe. A sort of padding motion if you will, similar to that of an assassin rushing in for the kill with that blood lust gleam reflecting off his pupils. Just judging by the movement, it was quickly apparent that whatever or whoever this was…he liked his privacy amidst quick meetings…

[glow=blue,2,300]“Lord Jian…”[/glow] The silhouette began as he drew closer, addressing the apparent father of the two lesser rulers that stood before him. A sort of inexperience raised from their very being, though he was much younger, there still were a few things they could learn from him…that much could be gathered…

[glow=blue,2,300]“I have come in question to joining your forces. Such a collection of people…is the shine that catches my eye…if you will…”[/glow] The sentence was left hanging, cutting off everyone else who attempted to say something to Sun Jian. Maybe it was rude…just maybe. But what did it matter? These people would soon forget such mediocre grudges as soon as the battle was brought to their doorstep…

The rather quick steps soon ceased, placing himself right before Sun Jian. Though a bit shorter, he still looked to hold a certain aura of intimidation in such meetings. First impressions were, after all, the most important part. Of course one would need the skills to back up such claims…skills that he had. Looking from left, to right briefly; the cowls of the coat following the slow movement softly, he spoke yet again:

[glow=blue,2,300]“I have my fair share of Tactical expertise…I assume you could use an Advisor of sorts. Though do not assume that I cannot fight either…”[/glow] The ending words were thrown with a hard tone, like a cold stone. Yet disregarding all formalities, he stood…waiting for a response…

[Sun Jian]

(K fine - but is my last welcome post before the site opens!!)

Sun Jian, stalls his fast arriving departure - word of the conflict with Wei had clearly reached the able men of Wu far quicker than he had anticipated.....if only they were with him before his army had met Guo Jia, perhaps Xu Chang would have a different ruler right now...regardless they needed peace with Wei now, Shu was going to cause problems in no time. And 2 fronts is not a war that is easy to win.

"Sun Liao!, of corse, family is always welcome in our halls - Sun Quan will no doubt relish in the assistance in running the entire kingdom - as this is no easy task. Talk with him, I am sure he will need much to be done."

Sun Jian now looked past Sun Liao at the smoky figure standing beyond him, a man who looked ruthless, dangerous and useful just from first impressions. Wu was forever in need of new threats in its arsenal. However now begged the question – exactally how long would he have to wait to test his new generals on the field of battle…this was someone he wanted to see what he could do.

"A new member to our kingdom is always welcome as well, I ask your name if you wish to serve Wu – we leave for Xu Chang imminently, you could accompany us perhaps.... or defending the kingdom in our absence is another task that is of far more importance. Preference is up to you."

Sun Jian glanced out of the grand windows of the castle, the sky was light still at least - their journey would need to begin soon,

[Saerin Zei]

[glow=blue,2,300]

”My name is of little importance…although I call you my Leader, I might as well give you the honor. Saerin Zei…”

[/glow]

He threw a sort of emphasis on his name, letting the words shoot out like cold, hard stones to anyone who listened. Yes…they would fear the name soon enough, as soon as battles have began and wars were fought, they soon would learn. But for now, his cloud of mysteriousness is an ally, and he will keep it that way…
Shifting lightly, Saerin clenched his left fist and put it into his right palm, cracking his knuckled with a sickening sound which echoed throughout the room. It was repeated again with the next hand before all fell into silence. He stood momentarily in thought, dwelling on the words of the Wu leader a bit further until he had eventually decided…

[glow=blue,2,300]

”I see that you would like to see my skills on the field of battle, yet I feel a defensive position would hold more merit within my own personal reason…I will defend…”

[/glow]

A faint glimmer of metal from within the darkness of the cloak would have caught the eye of one who was looking. It seemed to be in the shape of a hand, though its appearance was quickly masked once more as the youth stepped back from Sun Jian. In a flurry of robes and the cracking of material, he had turned away and was off towards the door. Each stride taken was powerful, yet swift, and it had only taken him moments to reach the exit of the room to where he halted for a moment…

[glow=blue,2,300]

”I look forward to hearing more detail about this battle when you return. Rest assured you can trust me with your kingdom…it is not like I would try and overthrow a Sun…”

[/glow]

With those words, the mysterious Saerin rounded the corner and was off…