Palace

[Cao Pi]

((Thread where you can request an audience with Yuan Shao))

[Zhen Ning]

It had been sometime since Zhen Ning had seen the victory of the Han forces. It had taken him a long time to even find the main palace of the leader, and now he had to worry about getting into the place. He knew it was going to be a very risky challenge for him to even enter the door to the palace, let along get to the emperor of the place. He knew of the man, who lead it, but he did not know too much about how he would act. Yuan Shao, was the man at the top of this kindgom and he seemed like a very powerful man. Zhen Ning had hoped so, for if he had not been, Zhen Ning would be disappointed. He soon approached the walls of the palace, and sighed. He had his sai close at hand, ready to fight if needed.

It was a good thing for him that he knew a little bit about acrobatics, because this would make this entrance a little easier. He made his way up onto one of the walls of the palace and looked up, knowing that he had a little ways to go. He jumped into the courtyard and looked around for the safest route to the doors. He wanted to get around it without being seen, so he did not have to do any fighting, and hurt his reputation. He did not really have one at the time, but it was better than having a bad one. He made his way around several buildings, avoiding the guards if at all possible. He felt the need to fight his way out of things, but he knew if he did, things would probably turn ugly. He turned to corner keeping as quite as he could.

Zhen Ning sighed as he thought he would be asked to join a kingdom, but he wasn't known enough to be. He would have to join the kingdom the old fashion way, and ask someone himself. He knew that asking the highest ranking member, was probably not the smartest thing to do, but he knew this was the only way he could get a higher ranking seat in a kingdom, because he knew he was stronger than any solider that a kingdom had. He was at least stronger than any of the lowest ranking class and he did not wish to be suck in the position.

Although he wanted to be a higher rank than most people where at his age, he did not know if it was worth risking his life for something that may never happen. He sighed and looked around and realized that he was already way in over his head and it would not be worth it to give up now, he was already inside the palace and he felt that he could make it. He made his way onto a building and looking around, seeing the palace gates very close to where he was. He smiled and pointed at them, and ignoring the others around him. It had seemed he had been spotted.

He soon jumped down, still unaware that he had been spotted and began to walk towards the gates, and soon several guards circled him. He soon put up his sai and looked around him and blocked an oncoming sword. He soon realized this was a bad idea and dropped his weapons, inside their holders. Soon two of the guards picked him up and carried him inside the gates. Once he got inside he began to flail around, to try and show that he could get out. The two guards soon dropped him in front of Yuan Shao. Zhen Ning looked up at their kind and smiled and waved.

It had seemed the guards were serious, and the held their swords to his neck. Zhen Ning sighed and turned his eyes to both of the guards, and glared. He then put his eyes on Yuan Shao and smiled again. "I am only here to ask if I can join your kingdom. My name is Zhen Ning. Right now, I am a nobody, that knows how to fight. I can prove it to you, if you want." He said with a smirk on his face. "The only reason I've come here, is because I knew this was my only shot of becoming something better than just a lowly solider." He said laughing and looking at the two guards. "Will you accept my offer?" He asked him, still smiling.

[Cao Pi]

Yuan Shao was out in the courtyard helping Yan Liang and Wen Chou to practise their blocks. Although Yuan wasn't a match for either of the men he still liked to help them. He drew his sword from is holster and circled Yan Liang and dived in for a lunged attack, Yan Liang stepped back and knocked the sword away from his body. Yuan Shao continued to circle, he went with a low strike but was blocked again. Yan Liang ducked the next swing by Yuan Shao and knocked the sword out of Yuan's hand.
"Well played Yan.."
Yuan Shao was suddenly interupted by one of the town's guards.
"Sorry to disturb you sir but a man has been sneaking around the city, there are guards following him. Should we confront him or wait?" the man spoke to Yuan from a bowing position.
Yuan Shao moved to pick up his sword that was on the floor, he looked down at the guard and made a jester towards the man with his hand. The guard looked up, bowed his head and returned to his position. He raised his are and jested to Yan Liang and Wen Chou, both men came over to Yuan Shao.
"Go bring this man to me."
Wen Chou and Yan Liang promptly left the courtyard to go to get this man. Yuan Shao returned to his quarters.

Some time later he heard shouts coming from within the palace, he quickly grabbed his sword and left to meet this man. He left his quarters and made his way towards the shouts, he was soon face to face with this man, Yan Liang and Wen Chou dropped the man at the feet and drew their blades and held it to the mans head. The man began to speak and Yuan Shao signalled to the generals to remove their weapons. After listening to the man speak Yuan Shao stared at him for a while leaving a very awkward silence, he then raised his arms and began to clap.
"Well done, you infiltrated Nan Pi, the biggest city apart from Ye in Hebei and you made it to my palace before being caught, a man of your skills should have his name next to Yan Liang and Wen Chou. I will happily accept you into my force."
Yuan Shao bent down to pick the man up to his feet, he then put his hands and the mans head and kissed his forehead.
"Welcome to the family. Guards show this man around, if you have any questions come back and visit me."
With that Yuan Shao returned to his quarters to continue studying and to prepare for his next move.

[Kong Rou]

Kong Rou approached the palace gates. Two guards with spears served as a blockade to his destiny. He knew of two ways to reach his destination. Warfare or diplomacy, he thought it best to reason with them at this point in time.

Its not wise to kill your future Lords men. He thought to himself.

"Ahem, excuse me. I am Kong Rou, I come seeking and audience with Lord Yuan Shao. I feel I have something he wants, a strong arm and equally strong mind. Perhaps you able men can grant me this?

After exchanging glances back and forth the guards allowed Rou to pass, but would not give him directions around the large Palace, apparently they were short on words.

Rou saw a statue of a Dragon, always thinking himself as something like a dragon in human form. He thought it was a sign to stay put, that Yuan Shao would come to him.

Rou stood tall and puffed out his chest, he knew only one chance would be granted without bloodshed.

[Yen Wang (Burai)]

Burai was looking for work; he needed to find a way to feed himself and Anrui. It was one thing if he was alone, but he couldn't do any of his habits with her around. She was mounted, promptly on his left shoulder, with her legs dangling at his chest. Her left hand rested on her lap, while her right was around Burai's neck. Burai was slightly annoyed today he spent what seemed like ages looking for this place. He would be damned. If he would come back empty handed.

He and Anrui finally reached the gates, where he was confronted by two guards. The guard; who just let a person go inside. Asked him to state his business. Burai raised his eyebrow. “I don’t need to speak with local peons. I am here for the big fish.” The guard seemed to be slightly aggravated by Burai’s response. “What is your business!?” Burai tilted his head to the side and looked at Anrui, then at the guard. “I really hate you do-it-by-the-book types. I really want to take my trident and shove it up your-“ Anrui squeezed Burai tightly; he let out a groan and glared at the man. “I heard that some noble hirin’ muscle. I’m the only muscle he would need.”

Burai drove his trident into the ground; the blunt in of the weapon was in the dit while the head was in the air. Burai grabbed the guard by the throat, “I just had a very long walk, unleash you want to be on the receiving end of that weapon I suggest you lemme through.” Anrui looked at the man with a pleaded face, urging him to let Burai through.

The guard loosened Burai’s grip and opened the gates. The other guard pointed his weapon at Burai; such a man couldn’t be trusted. Burai laughed at the sight, “If everything goes as I wished. You will find your head on top of the weapom.” He said with a chuckle, as he picked up his trident and he walked through the gates. As he made his way through the palace he saw a man staring at a statue. “He looks weak, staring at that statue...Its just a way that, the wealthy display their power.” He murmured, Anrui was quick to pull on his hair for that brash comment. “Oy, you the owner of this place?” Burai pointed his trident at the man, “I’m talking to you, are you the owner or not?”

[Kong Rou]

Kong Rou noticed a barbaric looking man staring menacingly at him and speaking to him in a disrespectful tone. The brute would most likely not even know how to spell his own name.

I am not Yuan Shao, I am Kong Rou from Pingyuan and I'm here seeking employment, and you are?

Rou placed his left hand on the handle of his sword, being left handed often gave him an advantage in battle.

I reccommend you change the way you conduct yourself Sire. Yuan Shao is one of the few nobles of this land, his ancestors performed a great service to China. Its great to show your power, but recklessness is only rewarded with death in these times. He already has two mighty Generals, if you fancy to be a third. Be less disrespectful

Rou then began tapping the handle of his sword with his thumb, getting ready for whatever may happen next.

Bloodshed at this time would not be wise.

[Yen Wang (Burai)]

Anrui began to have a look of doubt within her eyes. She held on to Burai tightly and moaned slightly. She could feel the hairs on the back of his neck rise. Suddenly his left hand flopped on the top of her head a few times. Burai kept his eyes on the pompous man in front of him. He called himself Kong Rou. The name didn’t ring any bells. “I am Shigure Burai!”

He twirled his trident around in his hand for a moment. “Thank you for your concern, but I don’t have time to be weak.. Who cares if this Yuan Shao’s family did great deeds for china? This means nothing to me. Throwing around you family legacy is weak. Demanding respect for it is even weaker. Such cowardice.” Burai slammed his trident into the ground annoyed. This man probably followed traditions of the land, and honored them. Burai laughed momentarily.

“Kong Rou, If death wishes to rear its ugly head. Then I recommend it bring an army of one thousands demons and the keeper of hell himself. I will not die so easily, I will devour my foes.” Anrui looked at Burai and glared. “..And protect those who cherish me. I won’t let no harm come to them.” He said in such a gentle tone as he looked at Anrui. His toned harden as he casted his glance back at Kong Rou.

“Yuan Shao, has to toys that he likes to play with, claiming them to be mighty warriors. I don’t fancy being his toy. I am here for work. If this man isn’t worthy of my talents I will go else were." This man seemed to be eager to join forces with Yuan Shao. Only a fool would leap blindly into a lion’s den.”I will show respect, when they had earned it.”

[Kong Rou]

Rou's temper was starting to get the better of him. If Yuan Shao did not appear soon, there would be a dead body or two in his hallway.

His eyes pierced through this arrogant stranger.

If you are here for work, then perhaps you should go out into the fields with the other oxen. I'm here to win a war!

[Cao Pi]

Yuan Shao was returning to his palace from his daily stroll through the town, as always he stopped at the same tavern where he would have some rice and bread, he would then go through the town greeting people and reassuring them that they are in capable hands. On his way back to his palace he we met by two guards who approached him swiftly.
"Sir!" The guard cried out while running towards Yuan Shao.
"A man has forced his way into the palace, he grabbed me by the throat and forced me to open the gate." The man dropped to his knee's out of fear of his life for failing to do his job properly.
"Hmm, its fine. On your feet solider, get back to your post but please have a rest first."
Yuan Shao left the men to do their own business and headed for the palace. When he arrived there were two men and a female having what seemed to be a lively discussion, he made his way forward and came closer to the men. He had caught the last bit of their conversation.
The big brutish man said "Yuan Shao, has to toys that he likes to play with, claiming them to be mighty warriors. I don’t fancy being his toy. I am here for work. If this man isn’t worthy of my talents I will go else were. I will show respect, when they had earned it"
Yuan Shao let out a laugh to draw both men's attention, when both men had focused on him he began to speak.
"I am Yuan Shao. I'm not sure who either of you are but i will have you know sir." Directing his attention to Burai.
"I used to play with toys when i was a small boy but now i am grown up and a leader of a faction the only toys i have are a pen, paper and my mind. They are the only toys a man needs, do you possess them? No, the only toy you possess is brute strength and by looking at you, you possess quite abit."
Yuan Shao walked past both men and up the stone stairs to his palace when he reached the top he turned to the men.
"Do come in, we can a better discussion inside."

Yuan Shao had pulled out two chairs for the men to sit on, there was a little table in between Yuan Shao and the two men. One of the women that was in the kingdom brought over some tea for the men to drink and put some buns on the table for them to eat. Yuan Shao raised his tea in a toast to the men and took a sip of his tea.
"Ahh, that is good tea. So, what can i do for you fine gentlemen?"

[Kong Rou]

Kong Rou took the seat offered to him and sipped his tea, and began to speak.

I am Kong Rou my Lord, I am from Pingyuan and I am going to win this war for you. I have donated my entire life to training and studying. I am often told of your heroism and how just you are, and I must say... I'm not impressed. You are only as good as the people you surround yourself with, do you not agree?

Rou gulped at the insult he delivered to the man he intended on servind, then took a breath and continued the honestly berating of Yuan Shao.

How is it that me, an obvious warrior was able to talk his way into your Palace WITH my weapon? How is it possible that this other bafoon was able to muscle his way in? Two guards correct? He should have be stabbed by the free man the second his arm made a move. I apologize Sir, but you are surrounded by imbeciles and cowards! You need me if you wish to be a man of tomorrow, and not a figure of today.

[Yen Wang (Burai)]

Burai grinned devilishly at Kong Rou. The poor man looked like he was quite upset. “Don’t tell me that my insight angers you? A man that was talking about how i need to be more respectful. Is quick to insult? Ah, he must be another hypocrite; I’m surrounded by such weak minded men.” Anrui looked to the side; she didn’t know how to change the setting. This man was only adding logs to the fire. Burai’s brashness wasn’t helping.

“What do you know about war?” Burai put Anrui on the ground, and picked up his trident. “Gaze at my body, its full of scars; each one of them carries a tail of a battle, a betrayal, all cause of war.” Burai was annoyed with this fool, the words out of his mouth where nonsense. Burai felt the urge to beat some sense into him. Suddenly a man laughing appeared. Burai decided to turn his trident toward him. “Whats so funny?”

Burai smirked, “Hmph if those are your toys, your kingdom will fall.. If recognize my strength, then you are somewhat wise, but if you believe that it is my only asset. Then you are a fool.” He said casually smirking at Kong Rou. So far he thought that coming here was a mistake.

He took Anrui by the hand and followed Yuan Shao up the stairs. Burai motioned to Anrui to sit in the chair. Burai stared at Yuan Shao. “I am here for work, and I believe that you would be able to put my skills to good use. As long as I’m compensated..Iwill make sure your kingdom prospers. You are in need of talented men I am worth a thousand.” Anrui nodded in agreement, with what Burai said.

[Cao Pi]

Yuan Shao sat back in his seat, he watched the man sat infront of him sip from his tea and then begin to speak. The man who relieved himself as Kong Rou, the man was quick to criticize Yuan Shao. A smirk developed on the face of Yuan Shao which turned into a sarcastic laugh.
"Yes I'm only as good as the people who serve me but do not judge me on my guards, there is a reason why the are manned on the gate and not in my royal guard legion in my palace or my elite troops. I wouldn't call men who are willing to die for me cowards but however i do need good men to command these troops, this is where i lack talent. I only have 3 generals and you seem up to the job." Yuan shao redircted his speech to burai. "And so do you." Yuan Shao had a smile on his face and took another sip of his tea and offered buns to his guest and taking one for himself. He began to bit into the bun when Burai began to talk. Once he had finished eating he replied to him.
"Yes, i know i can put good use to a man who has already bragged about his experiance and prowess in battle. If your skills in war are as good as your tongue then i have a great warrior in one." Yuan Shao stood up and addressed both men.
"Of course you will both get paid and also you may get paid extra when its due. I could use two men of your capability in my force and i will gladly allow you two to join if that is what you want, so how about it?" Yuan Shao stood in front of the men and extended his right arm to Burai for a handshake to seal the deal he would then extend the same hand to Kong Rou to seal the deal.

[He Xing]

He Xing had arrived from his recent victory in Luo Yang where he had helped destroy Zhang Jiao. Now however he had rode here to assist the most powerful man in the Han. The Yuan family had a great reputation of being a very famous family. Having served the Han for generations He Xing was now willing to help Yuan Shao in destroying the Turban forces. Hoping that Yuan Shao would recognize the son of the Grand general and allow him entrance into the palace He Xing requested his entrance. Looking around the city he saw that even the guards were very highly decorated. They had much more fancy armor and were more uptight. Marveling at it he looked around and saw them patrolling the city grounds. Waiting for his entry he looked at the gate and saw it's many engravings. Wondering if he was at the Emperors estate or actually at Nan Pi He Xing looked at his sword.

Thinking about his wife many a time he wished that he could see her again. However he had work to be done.

[Kong Rou]

Kong Rou smiled.

So what would you have me do MY Lord?

If its not too much to make a suggestion? I would like to patrol the city, make myself known to the populace. The people should know who protects them on a personal level.

Finishing off his tea he looked to his new comrade, Burai.

Well my brother in arms... Next drinks on me!

[Yen Wang (Burai)]

Burai watched Yuan Shao carefully. He found truth in his words. “Only as good as the people he served.” Burai looked down on such things, but the people needed someone to led them and this man is doing so. He remained silent for a change, Burai realized he did a lot of boasting. A slight chuckle came from his lips. Anrui turned amd gave him an odd look; her face was full of curiousity.

Burai looked down at her and said. “I must be getting old. Years ago I would of just drew my weapon and attacked someone just to prove my worth. Now I do it through other means..” He whispered to Anrui with a slight grin. She nodded and stuck out her tongue, “You are such a naughty lil girl, your not supposed to agree. Your suppose to tell me I’m not old.” She giggled innocent and turned back around. She gained her victory over Burai, it was such an easy battle.

Burai stoke Yuan Shao’s hand firmly, as he did he whispered something in his ear. “Don’t be a foolish leader.” As he finished he gave Yuan Shao a captivating smile. Burai slowly turned away and moved toward Anrui. When Kong Rou made a comment about drinks. “I will have to hold you to that another time Kong Rou.” He quickly picked up Anrui and placed her on his shoulder; thought hse was getting too big for it. Old habits tend to die slow. He tilted his head back so he could see Kong Rou. “Oy you are too trusting..Really wet behind the ears. I don’t have time to teach you the antics about war, acting so friendly after our incident just isn’t my style..”

He faced forward and waved goodbye. “Oy I will hold you too your word Yuan Shao..I expect payment. Your enemies will be my targets; your weak spots will be my stronghold. If you need something completed send someone to find me…” He slowly walked out of the room, he didn’t have time to waste. He needed to make a name of himself. “Anrui..seems China has forgotten about me..I must bring fear and respect back to my name..”