- Pronouns
- He/Him
She'd probably say something about the clan having advanced beyond the need to debase themselves through trade with outsiders. It's still a fallacy, but one that probably holds quite a bit of weight with her faction.
Threads Of Destiny(Eastern Fantasy, Sequel to Forge of Destiny)
- Thread starter yrsillar
- Start date
- Original Users' Choice!
Voted best in category in the Users' Choice awards.
- Location
- The Space Between
I think so, but I don't think it has to do with re-integration.
Can you make an Object Spirit of Self?
Can you, using the parts of humanity you are discarding, weave an Object Spirit impressed with your Ego as you pull all those human bits out of you?
A lot of the hesitation and apprehension around cultivating to such high levels is having to fight so much survival instinct down as you self-annihilate more and more of the bits of you that make you, you.
What if you weren't just discarding those to rot though?
What if you were wearing a Spirit Catcher of sorts?
What if you were able to capture a significant amount of these cast-offs and weave them into a blank object spirit so that they could be "you" when you were less human, and help inform/guide the actions of that spiritual Law that still wears your skin. To intentionally catch the human bits in a skin, dress, or mask as the being beneath that stuff speed-runs to White.
This would make Renxiang's dismissal of Shenhua's Mask of humanity to make sense, as the being that is Shenhua is no longer human. Yet at the same time Minister Diao would be quite frustrated by Renxiang's dismissal of that mask, because that mask was Shenhua's human side. It's not insincere, it was true and continues to be true. It simply isn't the thing that ultimately wields the power.
This comes back to the interaction Shenhua had with Renxiang. Tyrant Shenhua would have no issue with tearing apart Renxiang and starting the process even before Renxiang was fully developed as a person. Shenhua's humanity would be very upset by this, and likely convinced Tyrant Shenhua to try something different with the next children. Tyrant Shenhua is unable to feel regret, and her human mask is not able to express regret for actions it did not commit. Together though, they can choose to do something different.
This shifts the understanding of the line:
"She had seen behind the mask of flesh the being which had once been, seen the word which was at her core"
to something more like"
"She had seen behind the mask of flesh, the being which had once been, seen the word which was at her core"
the mask of flesh is similar to a simulacra of the being which had once been. We saw Sun Shao using simulacra, it doesn't seem uncommon. However:
If you take that idea a step further, and make that mask out of a blank object spirit and all the cast offs of your humanity, you actually end up making a being that is made out of what had once been. It's not a replica, or a simulation, or an illusion, it is actually literally a mask made of your own face. This would *definitely* cross over into "you're an abomination" territory, and has to be very intimidating. Especially when the absolute hatred for the Hui shines through from the thing beneath and people have to realize that the hatred isn't just a part of the mask, it's still very much core to that inhuman White underneath.
Can i just say, i am terribly amused that the Hui fucked up SO BADLY, that even centuries later, with People progressively casting off their humanity and thus their hate or relationships, that they are still REVILED to the point they are. Jiao hates them. AN hated them before he could not hate anyone. Shenhua Hates them even still as a White. It's hilarious to see an ostensibly competent clan fuck up so very badly.
the bai didn't trade for the tin, it was dredged up from the lakes by Grandmother and her lesser kin.
Aranfan
Team Plasma Grunt
No no, Veekie was saying the Bai drew strength from being the source of tin to others.
I think.
Ah well finished bronze is what they traded, but fair enough.
Yeah, tin is traditionally found in swamps. They presumably traded for the copper and never so much as mentioned tin to outsiders.
Tin is pretty rare, the rest of the empire might not have seen much of it, much less had an opportunity to experiment.
Edit: regarding the preservation of your humanity, I suspect that LQ would take a very different stance. Namely there is one big thing that's bizarre about LQ in comparison to her peers and that's the fact she's already bound three spirits and is on her way to binding four. Her peers, in comparison, have one or two bound spirits.
The imperial bond has traits from one party bleed over to the others. This is normally the human making the spirits more flexible but we know that spirits tend to become increasingly complicated as cultivation increases while humans become increasingly rigid. Eventually it would make sense that the spirits' flexibility eclipses the human's and that exchange starts flowing the other way. Have enough bound spirits trying to broaden your nature and the effect might become noticeable.
The other approach that LQ could take (maybe in combination) is that the Liminal loosens the boundary of self. This is dangerous because you can lose bits of yourself or pick up stuff from the environment. However, done intentionally, this opens up the possibility of replacing the stuff you've sacrificed. All this approach takes is a willingness to continue to change in potentially unforeseen ways.
Tin is pretty rare, the rest of the empire might not have seen much of it, much less had an opportunity to experiment.
Edit: regarding the preservation of your humanity, I suspect that LQ would take a very different stance. Namely there is one big thing that's bizarre about LQ in comparison to her peers and that's the fact she's already bound three spirits and is on her way to binding four. Her peers, in comparison, have one or two bound spirits.
The imperial bond has traits from one party bleed over to the others. This is normally the human making the spirits more flexible but we know that spirits tend to become increasingly complicated as cultivation increases while humans become increasingly rigid. Eventually it would make sense that the spirits' flexibility eclipses the human's and that exchange starts flowing the other way. Have enough bound spirits trying to broaden your nature and the effect might become noticeable.
The other approach that LQ could take (maybe in combination) is that the Liminal loosens the boundary of self. This is dangerous because you can lose bits of yourself or pick up stuff from the environment. However, done intentionally, this opens up the possibility of replacing the stuff you've sacrificed. All this approach takes is a willingness to continue to change in potentially unforeseen ways.
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Bygone Days: First Step
- Location
- The Star Kingdom of Manticore
Bygone Days: First Step
Dark clouds churned above frothing seas, each a wild beast testing their might against the fleet sailing through the elements. Waves crashed into formation hardened wood sending energy crackling into the air. Throughout it all Lang Keung stood, face braced against the wind and sea spray. This, he thought as he peered through the rain and waves, was what he had signed up for. This was an adventure. To grow one needed to be tested, and the testing of arranged duels and quiet gardens was lacking. Now with these new adventurous tests upon him Lang Keung swore he would not be found wanting.
Lang Keung had grown up in shaded sparring rings and with gentle garden creeks, nothing at all like the true elements out in the ocean. What once were soft perfectly calloused hands had been transformed by knot making and scars. Pale skin had tanned under an unending sun, well on its way to the salt caked leather hide that protected more experienced sailors. His black hair had been hacked short, now only falling to the nape of his neck. It was a startling change for such a short amount of time, and Lang Keung couldn't be happier. He even found himself standing straighter, spine now no longer bending under the weight of older brothers.
"Lookout! Anything new?"
Turning towards his superior, Lang Keung bowed. Ying Lei was an older sailor, the oldest one on this ship and whispers had it that he may even breach into the green realm soon. What no one whispered about though were his scars. He had more of those than skin at this point. Missing an ear, and an eye, Ying Lei would have made his own mother faint. Still there was always a song and a smile on the man's lips, which he used to expertly guide new sailors through the tedium of keeping a ship afloat. Now there was no smile, no song. Only a cold steel gaze that scanned the waves.
"Sir, no sighting of any barbarians, but the smell of blood is getting stronger." Lang Keung said.
Ying Lei sniffed the air. "Right you are. Divinations are being disrupted, but they did say that we would be cutting through a barbarian hunt, so keep an eye out for any flotsam or puddles of blood. Any signs of nearby barbarian activity really. An officer's meeting has been called, if you see anything report it there, you know the room."
"Aye, aye, sir."
One by one bells tolled out through the storm, cutting through the rain and thunder to keep everyone informed of the time, and moment by moment the smell of blood got stronger, yet there were still no signs of the hunt. It was only at the very end of Lang Keung's shift that he spotted something. Looming through the rain was a dark shape, a small island, tall and sloped. Yet as he peered through the rain, cycling qi to his eyes in the pattern his mother taught him, he saw more than just an island. Shapes scurried about; along and on an enormous white shape. Even with over half of the shape dipping below the waves Lang Keung knew that whatever
the shape was, it was monstrous, bigger perhaps than even the island that it now rested upon. He couldn't make it out, but he would bet his sword hand that this was the barbarians' hunt.
A quick run down below deck to deliver his report later and he stood with Ying Lei and Captain Jin peering together through the storm.
Captain Jin was an imposing figure. Black hair tied into a ponytail and an otherwise perfect face marred by a single faint scar stretching from the corner of his lips to his mid cheek. Bare arms slick with rain were ringed by many cuff bracelets that glinted with each movement of his arms. Rumors had it that he was related by blood to the Admiral, and Captain Jin certainly was confident enough to make the rumors believable.
"That's a mighty beast Captain." Ying Lie said, muttering as he tapped an aimless rhythm with his four fingers.
"It is indeed." Captain Jin said. In his hands was a jade stone. It was carved in a circle the size of his palm with formations etched into it that made Lang Keung's head swim whenever he caught a glimpse. The captain nodded. "I've messaged the admiral. We are going in first while the fleet pivots and encircles the island."
"Will the admiral become involved?" Ying Lie said, his voice careful and measured.
"The admiral will be prepared to step in, but is planning to remain on his ship. Right now our mission is to clear the barbarians off our prize so we can see what we've got." Captain Jin said. Then he turned to Lang Keung. "You were the one who spotted the prize, correct?"
Lang Keung bowed deeply. "Yes captain. I was on lookout duty."
"Very well, you will join me in the first wave as a reward."
"I am honored to serve." Lang Keung said as his grip flexed on his sword hilt. This was his moment to shine, to prove himself as more than just another red soul sailor. To experience adventure first hand!
"Then let's get started." At the captain's command the ship turned, pushing back waves and wind. Formations sparked and hissed, expressing their annoyance at doing even more work as the ship moved towards the island and the prize upon it. Halfway there smaller boats were lowered into the water, each filled with cultivators. With a roar swallowed by the ocean and sky the boats rocked forward, driven by specialized formations, and on the front boat, sitting right behind the captain sat Lang Keung, blade already bared to salt and rain.
To their credit the barbarians were quick to notice the oncoming battle. As the boats came closer the barbarians threw great white harpoons, each one festooned with vile barbed hooks and barnacles. One boat was struck by too many, formations flickered away as the boat splintered apart and the cultivators on board were given to an uncaring ocean.
Lang Keung had no time to think on that fate for with a gust of wind the captain shot straight into the sky, then he burned, a coal in a smith's furnace, before the air spilt and the captain dove into the waiting tentacles of the largest barbarian. A mere moment after the captain's attack the boat slammed into soft blubbery land and Lang Keung charged the barbarians. It was no sparring ring he had ever fought on, or a ship's creaking wood deck. Each step dug into the beast's flesh, fighting against the surface. A slight spring to each step was the result of that fight and it threatened to topple him, but there was no time to adjust, it was time to fight.
One barbarian jumped straight at him, spear thrust as obvious as a child's. Laughing Lang Keung spun to the side to avoid the blow. An upward swing afterwards would deliver a killing counter. This was easy. He slipped.
A cut into the leviathan had sprayed blood and fat over the skin nearby, and as Lang Keung stumbled he knew that here, in this battle, there would be no footwork, no lessons from the sparring ring. It was only his horrific failure to keep his feet that saved his life. Instead of piercing his heart it sliced into his shoulder, leaving a spreading burning sensation.
His hands fought to get a grip on blubbery flesh and Lang Keung lashed out with a kick as he spat out a mouthful of blood and fat. He connected with a crunching sound. Above him, deep in barbaric fishy eyes, Lang Keung saw a flash of emotion and knew this was his chance. Spinning his blade around to catch the falling barbarian spread blood even further, but at the end of the exchange he was the one who stood up again.
All around him was the battle, brave cultivators against the barbarians of the deep. A deep breath steadied him, and then he rushed off to help a fellow sailor being grappled by a barbarian who had too many joints in their arm. It repeated like that, over and over. Kill a barbarian and then rush to help someone else in danger.
Blood sprayed high in the air and Lang Keung lost count of the number of times he stumbled. That burning sensation in his shoulder had faded to a worrying numb. But there was no time for thinking. Moment by moment there were less barbarians to fight. He needed to keep going. Then, in a moment that felt like being pushed into a pond, Lang Keung blinked to see there were no barbarians left. Only corpses on a corpse and an ocean stained red.
"Well done!"
Lang Keung turned towards the voice. Captain Jin strode towards him, arms up to his elbow a deep red speckled with white. Blood dripped from his hands as rain.
"I kept my eye on you through this fight." Captain Jin said as Lang Keung bowed. "You did a great job, and spotted this prize, too! Excellent work. Expect a larger than normal share." The captain looked around and then placed his hand on the skin beneath them both. "What a prize this is." He whistled. "At least indigo, perhaps even edging into violet." The captain stood back up and shook his hands clean, blood splattering everywhere. "In any case you will likely be given a monetary prize, instead of a piece of this beast. I doubt you have use for material of the 5th or 6th grade. Anyway, I'll keep my eye on you. You've got a bright future ahead of you."
The party afterwards was a spectacular affair. Lesser perhaps than the parties Lang Keung would hear about back home, but made more by the company and the taste of victory. Even the Admiral himself stopped by and congratulated the ship, both for spotting the prize and being the first ones in the fight. Drinks were passed around and even sections of the leviathan, at least those deemed safe for those of lesser cultivation to eat, were cooked on great ovens hauled up to the ships' deck. Smoke mixed with songs and spiraled into the sky. This was what adventure was all about, Lang Keung thought as he joined another riotous verse that the captain was politely ignoring. This was how life was meant to be lived.
It was only later as sleep pressed into Lang Keung that he realized something. He recognized that flash of emotion from the first barbarian he fought. In those deep ocean eyes was fear. Fear, that most human emotion. Sleep took him before Lang Keung could think anymore of it, but that memory, that human fear, remained a speck of dust in his mind, lost and forgotten. Alone a speck of dust does nothing, but even tempests fit to shatter sovereignty grow from such specks of dust.
A.N
Omake for the Omake throne @yrsillar
This omake is my idea of Lang Keung's first adventures on the Jin Treasure fleet. Lang Keung was the Elder that wrote the story that Xuan Shi enjoys. Please enjoy.
Dark clouds churned above frothing seas, each a wild beast testing their might against the fleet sailing through the elements. Waves crashed into formation hardened wood sending energy crackling into the air. Throughout it all Lang Keung stood, face braced against the wind and sea spray. This, he thought as he peered through the rain and waves, was what he had signed up for. This was an adventure. To grow one needed to be tested, and the testing of arranged duels and quiet gardens was lacking. Now with these new adventurous tests upon him Lang Keung swore he would not be found wanting.
Lang Keung had grown up in shaded sparring rings and with gentle garden creeks, nothing at all like the true elements out in the ocean. What once were soft perfectly calloused hands had been transformed by knot making and scars. Pale skin had tanned under an unending sun, well on its way to the salt caked leather hide that protected more experienced sailors. His black hair had been hacked short, now only falling to the nape of his neck. It was a startling change for such a short amount of time, and Lang Keung couldn't be happier. He even found himself standing straighter, spine now no longer bending under the weight of older brothers.
"Lookout! Anything new?"
Turning towards his superior, Lang Keung bowed. Ying Lei was an older sailor, the oldest one on this ship and whispers had it that he may even breach into the green realm soon. What no one whispered about though were his scars. He had more of those than skin at this point. Missing an ear, and an eye, Ying Lei would have made his own mother faint. Still there was always a song and a smile on the man's lips, which he used to expertly guide new sailors through the tedium of keeping a ship afloat. Now there was no smile, no song. Only a cold steel gaze that scanned the waves.
"Sir, no sighting of any barbarians, but the smell of blood is getting stronger." Lang Keung said.
Ying Lei sniffed the air. "Right you are. Divinations are being disrupted, but they did say that we would be cutting through a barbarian hunt, so keep an eye out for any flotsam or puddles of blood. Any signs of nearby barbarian activity really. An officer's meeting has been called, if you see anything report it there, you know the room."
"Aye, aye, sir."
One by one bells tolled out through the storm, cutting through the rain and thunder to keep everyone informed of the time, and moment by moment the smell of blood got stronger, yet there were still no signs of the hunt. It was only at the very end of Lang Keung's shift that he spotted something. Looming through the rain was a dark shape, a small island, tall and sloped. Yet as he peered through the rain, cycling qi to his eyes in the pattern his mother taught him, he saw more than just an island. Shapes scurried about; along and on an enormous white shape. Even with over half of the shape dipping below the waves Lang Keung knew that whatever
the shape was, it was monstrous, bigger perhaps than even the island that it now rested upon. He couldn't make it out, but he would bet his sword hand that this was the barbarians' hunt.
A quick run down below deck to deliver his report later and he stood with Ying Lei and Captain Jin peering together through the storm.
Captain Jin was an imposing figure. Black hair tied into a ponytail and an otherwise perfect face marred by a single faint scar stretching from the corner of his lips to his mid cheek. Bare arms slick with rain were ringed by many cuff bracelets that glinted with each movement of his arms. Rumors had it that he was related by blood to the Admiral, and Captain Jin certainly was confident enough to make the rumors believable.
"That's a mighty beast Captain." Ying Lie said, muttering as he tapped an aimless rhythm with his four fingers.
"It is indeed." Captain Jin said. In his hands was a jade stone. It was carved in a circle the size of his palm with formations etched into it that made Lang Keung's head swim whenever he caught a glimpse. The captain nodded. "I've messaged the admiral. We are going in first while the fleet pivots and encircles the island."
"Will the admiral become involved?" Ying Lie said, his voice careful and measured.
"The admiral will be prepared to step in, but is planning to remain on his ship. Right now our mission is to clear the barbarians off our prize so we can see what we've got." Captain Jin said. Then he turned to Lang Keung. "You were the one who spotted the prize, correct?"
Lang Keung bowed deeply. "Yes captain. I was on lookout duty."
"Very well, you will join me in the first wave as a reward."
"I am honored to serve." Lang Keung said as his grip flexed on his sword hilt. This was his moment to shine, to prove himself as more than just another red soul sailor. To experience adventure first hand!
"Then let's get started." At the captain's command the ship turned, pushing back waves and wind. Formations sparked and hissed, expressing their annoyance at doing even more work as the ship moved towards the island and the prize upon it. Halfway there smaller boats were lowered into the water, each filled with cultivators. With a roar swallowed by the ocean and sky the boats rocked forward, driven by specialized formations, and on the front boat, sitting right behind the captain sat Lang Keung, blade already bared to salt and rain.
To their credit the barbarians were quick to notice the oncoming battle. As the boats came closer the barbarians threw great white harpoons, each one festooned with vile barbed hooks and barnacles. One boat was struck by too many, formations flickered away as the boat splintered apart and the cultivators on board were given to an uncaring ocean.
Lang Keung had no time to think on that fate for with a gust of wind the captain shot straight into the sky, then he burned, a coal in a smith's furnace, before the air spilt and the captain dove into the waiting tentacles of the largest barbarian. A mere moment after the captain's attack the boat slammed into soft blubbery land and Lang Keung charged the barbarians. It was no sparring ring he had ever fought on, or a ship's creaking wood deck. Each step dug into the beast's flesh, fighting against the surface. A slight spring to each step was the result of that fight and it threatened to topple him, but there was no time to adjust, it was time to fight.
One barbarian jumped straight at him, spear thrust as obvious as a child's. Laughing Lang Keung spun to the side to avoid the blow. An upward swing afterwards would deliver a killing counter. This was easy. He slipped.
A cut into the leviathan had sprayed blood and fat over the skin nearby, and as Lang Keung stumbled he knew that here, in this battle, there would be no footwork, no lessons from the sparring ring. It was only his horrific failure to keep his feet that saved his life. Instead of piercing his heart it sliced into his shoulder, leaving a spreading burning sensation.
His hands fought to get a grip on blubbery flesh and Lang Keung lashed out with a kick as he spat out a mouthful of blood and fat. He connected with a crunching sound. Above him, deep in barbaric fishy eyes, Lang Keung saw a flash of emotion and knew this was his chance. Spinning his blade around to catch the falling barbarian spread blood even further, but at the end of the exchange he was the one who stood up again.
All around him was the battle, brave cultivators against the barbarians of the deep. A deep breath steadied him, and then he rushed off to help a fellow sailor being grappled by a barbarian who had too many joints in their arm. It repeated like that, over and over. Kill a barbarian and then rush to help someone else in danger.
Blood sprayed high in the air and Lang Keung lost count of the number of times he stumbled. That burning sensation in his shoulder had faded to a worrying numb. But there was no time for thinking. Moment by moment there were less barbarians to fight. He needed to keep going. Then, in a moment that felt like being pushed into a pond, Lang Keung blinked to see there were no barbarians left. Only corpses on a corpse and an ocean stained red.
"Well done!"
Lang Keung turned towards the voice. Captain Jin strode towards him, arms up to his elbow a deep red speckled with white. Blood dripped from his hands as rain.
"I kept my eye on you through this fight." Captain Jin said as Lang Keung bowed. "You did a great job, and spotted this prize, too! Excellent work. Expect a larger than normal share." The captain looked around and then placed his hand on the skin beneath them both. "What a prize this is." He whistled. "At least indigo, perhaps even edging into violet." The captain stood back up and shook his hands clean, blood splattering everywhere. "In any case you will likely be given a monetary prize, instead of a piece of this beast. I doubt you have use for material of the 5th or 6th grade. Anyway, I'll keep my eye on you. You've got a bright future ahead of you."
The party afterwards was a spectacular affair. Lesser perhaps than the parties Lang Keung would hear about back home, but made more by the company and the taste of victory. Even the Admiral himself stopped by and congratulated the ship, both for spotting the prize and being the first ones in the fight. Drinks were passed around and even sections of the leviathan, at least those deemed safe for those of lesser cultivation to eat, were cooked on great ovens hauled up to the ships' deck. Smoke mixed with songs and spiraled into the sky. This was what adventure was all about, Lang Keung thought as he joined another riotous verse that the captain was politely ignoring. This was how life was meant to be lived.
It was only later as sleep pressed into Lang Keung that he realized something. He recognized that flash of emotion from the first barbarian he fought. In those deep ocean eyes was fear. Fear, that most human emotion. Sleep took him before Lang Keung could think anymore of it, but that memory, that human fear, remained a speck of dust in his mind, lost and forgotten. Alone a speck of dust does nothing, but even tempests fit to shatter sovereignty grow from such specks of dust.
A.N
Omake for the Omake throne @yrsillar
This omake is my idea of Lang Keung's first adventures on the Jin Treasure fleet. Lang Keung was the Elder that wrote the story that Xuan Shi enjoys. Please enjoy.
- Pronouns
- They
Biyu + literal magic marker hidden away = mischief making gold.
Can you imagine how many cookies Biyu could pilfer with her very ownMr. Game and watch hand drawn sneaky sissy? How monstrous would a kindergartener's frog painting look to the mortal maids as it hopped about the garden. Perfect mission for Mama Ling's Pleiades recruits.
Can you imagine how many cookies Biyu could pilfer with her very own
- Location
- Spain
- Pronouns
- He/Him
One question ... Cai Renxiang and Cai Tienli have the same father?
Now I do not remember... sorry 😅
Now I do not remember... sorry 😅
- Location
- A place
Alectai
Speaks Words of Wisdom... On occasion
Actually, that being said, are we on the way from upgrading our Cai Clan Relationship to 2 yet? I think Ling Qi qualifies as "Mild Notice and positively disposed towards" by now, right?
I've just had a thought about this, possibly someone else has also contemplated this.
We know of Shenhua's skills, bringing life to objects far faster than should be possible. We saw in Liming's dream the way that she was bonded to Renxiang (or possibly a fragment of her), in a way that should (in an ideal world) almost be a symbiosis.
We also know of the Cloud tribe's cultivation path, which pairs up a human and spirit beast, and the White Sky, who view it as mantles of a sort.
What if Shenhua "cheated" the White ascenscion by infusing much of her "self" into one or several of her dresses or creations. Then, after she had cut away the parts of herself necessary to ascend to white, her creations then rebound to her newly ascended self in a symbiotic relationship, allowing her the power and focus of a white, without losing so much access to the feelings and understandings of her past self.
It might also help explain some of the blindspots. Such as her mistake in bringing Renxiang to see her at too young an age.
It's just one theory of course. We've also seen that great spirits, such as the dreaming moon, are much more wide ranging than the lens the empire views them through. Perhaps Shenhua simply saw some of the sheer breadth of her law a little earlier than most.
Thats coming up yeah. Gotta talk to boss lady
CedeTheBees
Probably high right now
- Location
- Somewhere
- Pronouns
- They/Them
I wonder if that's what dress-chan will end up being.
Make sure to write about Oppression Mom's headpats! 😤
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Autumn Harvest Festival
ElizatronicWarfa
Himejoshi Supreme
- Pronouns
- She/They
Inspired by a discussion on the Discord, I present: a description of an autumn festival in Ling Qi's future city, as envisioned by me. I decided to call the city Lingbaoshan, because the real treasure is the friends we make along the way.
Autumn Harvest Festival
The autumn harvest festival in Lingbaoshan is the city's largest and most famous yearly celebration. It takes place late in the season, when the nights creep in quickly and the air becomes cold. Stretching across three auspicious days of preparation, celebration, and recovery, it is designed to placate and offer thanks to the city's central spirit - the mighty and venerable Zhengui.
The first day is given over to preparation, when the household readies itself for the next two days. Livestock are slaughtered, fruit is picked, decorations are formed, clothing is bought, and the city comes to a paradoxically busy halt as everyone bends their efforts towards getting ready for the next day. Many not involved with the celebration take the day off to be with their families in quiet contemplation of the past year. It is common to dispose of old things during this time - eat leftovers, give away torn gowns, and scrape peeling paint.
The second day is the climax of the festival, as entire households come out to celebrate in Lingbaoshan's central square. The previous day's efforts yield beautiful results as streamers, delicious fruit, cakes, and gorgeous decorations fill the streets. Prayer wheels, firecrackers, merchant stalls, performers, families and children and celebrants of every age and station mingle freely in Lingbaoshan's central square, forming a riot of colour and sound. It is said that on particularly auspicious years, the shadow of Viscount Ling herself can be glimpsed in the windows of the Ling residence overlooking the square as she watches the celebrations.
Neighbors sit down to eat outside together, music fills the air, and as the day turns to dusk, the city's attention turns to the pagoda in the middle of the square. When the celebrations reach their highest point, as the air grows colder and the skies darken to pitch black while lanterns gutter low, Lingbaoshan's central landmark shifts upwards to reveal its' true nature - the slumbering form of Zhengui.
Twin pairs of eyes burn like red-hot coals in the darkness, sweeping the now-silent crowds with wise regard. Thick clouds of hot, wood-scented ash billow in the air as Zhengui's very presence blesses those present. The many trees of Lingbaoshan's avenues all bloom, and a haunting refrain accompanies a short few minutes of prayer. Children born that year are brought to Zhengui himself for inspection, his warm breath bathing the infants as he inspects them and bestows good fortune.
Eventually, the visitation is over - Zhengui settles back down, the pagoda regrows over his shell, and the celebrations are renewed. The revelry usually continues late into the night, with partying and celebration in almost every household. Many children are often conceived during this time, as it is considered a particularly auspicious time aligned with fertility and growth.
The final day is for recovery. To say nothing of those who over-indulged the previous night, there is also a frenetic energy of cleaning and renewal. Houses are aired out, ash pits are raked, streets are swept spotless, walls are repainted, fields are tilled, and Lingbaoshan sparkles in the light of the first day of the new year as it prepares to face whatever trials may be ahead.
Autumn Harvest Festival
The autumn harvest festival in Lingbaoshan is the city's largest and most famous yearly celebration. It takes place late in the season, when the nights creep in quickly and the air becomes cold. Stretching across three auspicious days of preparation, celebration, and recovery, it is designed to placate and offer thanks to the city's central spirit - the mighty and venerable Zhengui.
The first day is given over to preparation, when the household readies itself for the next two days. Livestock are slaughtered, fruit is picked, decorations are formed, clothing is bought, and the city comes to a paradoxically busy halt as everyone bends their efforts towards getting ready for the next day. Many not involved with the celebration take the day off to be with their families in quiet contemplation of the past year. It is common to dispose of old things during this time - eat leftovers, give away torn gowns, and scrape peeling paint.
The second day is the climax of the festival, as entire households come out to celebrate in Lingbaoshan's central square. The previous day's efforts yield beautiful results as streamers, delicious fruit, cakes, and gorgeous decorations fill the streets. Prayer wheels, firecrackers, merchant stalls, performers, families and children and celebrants of every age and station mingle freely in Lingbaoshan's central square, forming a riot of colour and sound. It is said that on particularly auspicious years, the shadow of Viscount Ling herself can be glimpsed in the windows of the Ling residence overlooking the square as she watches the celebrations.
Neighbors sit down to eat outside together, music fills the air, and as the day turns to dusk, the city's attention turns to the pagoda in the middle of the square. When the celebrations reach their highest point, as the air grows colder and the skies darken to pitch black while lanterns gutter low, Lingbaoshan's central landmark shifts upwards to reveal its' true nature - the slumbering form of Zhengui.
Twin pairs of eyes burn like red-hot coals in the darkness, sweeping the now-silent crowds with wise regard. Thick clouds of hot, wood-scented ash billow in the air as Zhengui's very presence blesses those present. The many trees of Lingbaoshan's avenues all bloom, and a haunting refrain accompanies a short few minutes of prayer. Children born that year are brought to Zhengui himself for inspection, his warm breath bathing the infants as he inspects them and bestows good fortune.
Eventually, the visitation is over - Zhengui settles back down, the pagoda regrows over his shell, and the celebrations are renewed. The revelry usually continues late into the night, with partying and celebration in almost every household. Many children are often conceived during this time, as it is considered a particularly auspicious time aligned with fertility and growth.
The final day is for recovery. To say nothing of those who over-indulged the previous night, there is also a frenetic energy of cleaning and renewal. Houses are aired out, ash pits are raked, streets are swept spotless, walls are repainted, fields are tilled, and Lingbaoshan sparkles in the light of the first day of the new year as it prepares to face whatever trials may be ahead.
Turn 13: 4-2
The Bai delegation's arrival point was less attention catching than the grand pavilion being set up by the Cai, but no less ostentatious. A coachhouse worth of carriages and black furred horses tended to by a small army of servants were set out to one side of a literal mansion that had certainly not been there the previous day. Three stories high with tiered elegantly curved roofs tiled in a midnight blue that seemed to ripple like the gentle surface of the lake. The soldiers arrayed outside were not garbed like their Emerald Seas counterparts, favoring instead looser robes worn under a curraise of metal arranged like scales, and well fitted armored gloves.
Renxiang and Ling Qi were not left to wait outside for very long. News of their arrival was carried instead by a blank faced doorman in robes of deepest black, his face marked by patches of black scale. Passing through the door of that mansion, it was all Ling Qi could do not to visibly shudder. There was death carved into these walls, into the doorway itself, thrumming in the very air. Death and unwavering eyes. Ling Qi would not care to enter this place uninvited, even with all the time in the world to prepare.
Inside, the mansion was well appointed despite the low threat in the air that kept the hairs on the back up her neck up. The halls were wide and well lit, the walls grown over with some kind of carefully cultured flowering ivy which gave off a soothing scent. The sound of softly running water filled her ears, and she saw in glimpses of side rooms many small fountains and artificial waterfalls.
The room they were shown too was a spacious chamber, lit from above by warm, bright light. The light was cast by a single large stone affixed to the ceiling, glowing with a hot yellow light like a miniature sun. It put out as much heat as light, and combined with the artificial waterfall built into the rear of the room, it filled the room with a sticky summer heat more intense than what Ling Qi was used to. In front of the churning pool into which the water fell was a long polished table lined with many seats.
Ling Qi's gaze flicked to Meizhen and Xiao Fen first, the two of them were seated to the left side of the table. Well Meizhen was seated, wearing her Cai gown and the sash that had been gifted her by Bao Qingling. Xiao Fen stood at attention behind her seat. The younger girl had achieved the third realm since Ling Qi had seen her last.
At the center of the table, in a high backed seat was a White caste Bai woman she did not recognize. She wore a glimmering pale blue gown that seemed almost liquid in texture, her white hair was gathered in a series of elaborate looping braids which fell over her shoulders and down her back. Yellow eyes peered down at them from a face rounder than Meizhen's more angular features.
Ling Qi remembered the advice Meizhen had given her in their planning for this.
"It is important among my kin, even more than the rest of the empire to show the proper deference to one's superiors in rank and strength. However, it is just as important to not allow deference to become subservience, at least among nobles. If you act the servant, you will be treated as a servant."
So Ling Qi cast her eyes down, fixing her gaze on the Bai Ambassadors thin, unpainted lips. However she did not bend her neck any further, nor shudder at the wave of animal terror that clawed at her subconscious. That at least she was well practiced with.
You're the only one who would say that," Sixiang grumbled, sounding rattled.
"Ambassador Bai Xilai," Cai Renxiang greeted. Ling Qi made her bows alongside her liege here. "It is my honor to welcome you to the Argent Sect, I regret only that my Mother's arrival was delayed. I hope you will accept my company in her place until this is rectified."
Under half lidded eyes, Ling Qi scanned the others present at the table. Directly to Bai Xilai's left, between her and Ling Qi's friends was a calmly smiling man with deep violet hair, airy grey robes and a wispy figure. He was looking at them with a sort of indulgent curiosity, adjusting the small glass lenses that sat on his nose. Her attention didn't linger on him though because there was someone standing behind him.
A tall figure in black silks, yellow eyes peered at her from behind an opaque black veil. She could make out no more than that about them, their features shrouded in shadow. Just looking at them made Ling Qi feel like a knife's edge were being run across her skin. They were death wrapped in silk.
"It is unfortunate, but matters of governance must come before the indulgence of outsiders," Bai Xilai said. "As her grace's heir you are an acceptable substitute until this evening."
"Thank you for your indulgence, Lady Bai," Cai Renxiang said eloquently, keeping her head bowed for another beat.
On Bai Xilai's right past several Bai functionaries sat a man Ling Qi struggled for a moment to place. It was only when the man glanced her way did his plain, tired features snap into focus. Hou Zhuang, Meizhen's Father, who she had met at last year's tournament.
"For our good allies, the people of the Emerald Seas, such a small thing does not require thanks, but please, sit. We intend to enjoy a small meal before the days activities. You and your second are welcome at my table."
Ling Qi felt the Bai matron's gaze briefly flick toward her. Ling Qi felt for a moment as she were sinking deep into a dark lake, pulled down by the current,water spilling into her lungs. She mastered herself, not allowing a single visible twitch in her stance. The feeling faded. There was no approval or even acknowledgement in the woman's gaze, not really, but neither was there any disdain.
She chose her seat to the left of Cai Renxiang, who sat down across from the ambassador. Here too she remembered Meizhen's words.
"The seat directly to the left of a lord is the most honored, indicating great trust and admiration for martial ability. Seating to the left in general is a sign of favor. In this we favor great Yao, whose left hand was his favored one."
Ling Qi stole another glance at the man seated to the Ambassadors left, who had turned to quietly speak with Meizhen. The chilling shadow behind him still watched the two of them with unblinking eyes.
Bai Xilai rang the delicate crystal handbell which sat on the table in front of her, signaling subtly hidden side doors in the room to open and begin disgorging servants. "Allow me to make further introductions. To my left is the Master Scholar Xia Lushen, husband to Heiress Bai Suzhen."
The thin man's gaze turned back to them and he smiled good naturedly. "Young Lady Cai, Baroness. It pleases me to meet you."
Ling Qi returned the pleasantries. Xia was… the Violet Coral caste, sometimes referred to as sea snakes. They were the Bai clans scholars and astronomers as well as their shipbuilders and navigators. They were obviously different from the local Xia, who were a hill tribe before General Xia Ren took an imperial name.
"It gladdens me that Lady Bai trusts our province so," Cai renxiang said politely.
Ling Qi thought that was a little silly considering his shadow, but niceties were niceties.
"The Duchess Cai is most reliable," Xia Lushen replied. "But I am merely pleased at the opportunity to visit my niece. And, if I may indulge myself, a chance to study the artifacts from these underground creatures."
Ambassador Xilai waited a beat after he finished speaking to continue, an unusual display of respect from a White Serpent to a lower caste, according to what Meizhen had told her. She supposed that he was Bai Suzhen's husband though.
"I need not introduce my niece naturally," Bai Xilai continued,gesturing to Meizhen. "It is known to me that you are good friends."
For a moment, Ling Qi was confused, but then she recalled being told that in public settings all members of a caste referred to each other in direct familial terms. Members of the same generation were brothers and sisters unless married and the younger generation were all nieces and nephews unless they were the older Bai's actual children. This was, according to Meizhen, to foster internal unity. Considering the other things Meizhen had implied, Ling Qi thought the practice had failed at that long ago.
"You are correct, Ambassador, Bai Meizhen has been a steadfast ally throughout my time in the Sect," Cai Renxiang replied. "She has been instrumental to my success."
"Lady Cai gives too much praise," Bai Meizhen replied demurely.
"A Bai should always accept praise which is due," Bai Xilai said, finishing the little verbal dance. "Such is learned from experience however. Experience I am glad she will soon receive."
"The Bai clan has agreed to participate in my outreach then?" Cai Renxiang asked.
"Lady Suzhen has given it due consideration and agrees that it will be a good experience for her niece," Bai Xilai replied. Ling Qi very much noticed that she said nothing about the viability of the project itself. There were limits to politeness it seemed. As servants began to stream in setting out the dishes, Ling Qi's gaze turned to the right, studying the other two attendees sitting between Bai Xilai and Hou Zhuang, who sat furthest to the right on their side of the table.
They were both fairly young at Ling Qi's guess it was hard to know just by looking with cultivators, but Ling Qi judged them no more than eighteen or nineteen, and she was getting better at figuring that out. The one directly to Bai Xilai's right was a tall, willowy young man, even sitting down. He had an aristocratic, handsome face, and long black hair that fell to his shoulders shot through with streaks of deepest violet. His yellow eyes were fairly striking, she thought he might actually be wearing a touch of eye shadow. He reminded her of Lin Hai, in style, with closely fitted blue and grey clothes.
She judged him to be of the same caste as Xia Lushen.
The second was probably the biggest Bai she had ever seen. He probably had a centimeter or two on her, with a much more solid build than his kin. He wore armor much like the guards outside, but with the sleeves absent. This left his heavily muscled arms bare, save for a pair of bronze bands around his upper arms. His skin had a ruddier tinge than the other Bai, and his arms and hands, particularly his knuckles were covered by dark red scales. His features were more masculine to Ling Qi's eye, but still held some of the aristocratic sharpness she expected from a Bai. His dark brownish red hair was shaved near to his scalp though.
His caste was obvious, The Red Python, considered the lowest caste besides the Grey -the mortals-. They were typically laborers and craftsmen in more common fields, with a fair number serving as the foot soldiers of the Bai's armies. However his cultivation was no less than his companions, sitting firmly at the sixth step of the green realm.
"On my right are two of the candidates the clan has selected to be a part of her retinue. Xia Anxi is well recommended among his generation as an expert astrologer, speaker and singer," Bai Xilai praised, gesturing to the young man to her immediate right.
"An interesting choice," Cai Renxiang said. "I have no reason to doubt your words of praise."
"It is my understanding that there are interesting things in the far south's sky," Xia Anxi said with a thin smile. "And that these foreigners hold some esteem for musical talent."
"It is more the particulars of my style," Ling Qi said, speaking up for the first time. "However I am certain your assistance to Lady Meizhen will be invaluable."
"Is that so," he mused. "Well I might like to hear a demonstration of your style then Baroness, and see for myself."
"The other," Bai Xilai said, cutting him off more swiftly, "Lao Keung. Lady Suzhen has sponsored him specifically as a promising officer, and due to certain circumstances judges that he will be best served completing his training for that role leading my nieces guard detachment."
Lao Keung did not smile as he dipped his head. Ling Qi thought she saw a glimmer of black humor in his eyes. "It is an honor to so directly serve the great White Serpents. I look forward to adding my own small strength to guarding the expedition's safety. I hope to learn from your experiences with foreign foes and battlefields."
"And lastly, there is Hou Zhuang, who is here to observe as well," Bai Xilai finished dismissively.
As she finished speaking everyone fell silent to allow the servants to lay out the meal, and Ling Qi considered what she should do going forward. Cai renxiang would continue engaging with the Ambassador. All of them, Meizhen, Renxiang, and Ling Qi, had agreed that she would be better served helping to sound out the lower status members of the delegation. It would be harder for Meizhen to really get anything out of them so she was not only helping their expedition, but also her friend.
She glanced between the two of them and considered what topic to try and open conversation with.
[] Speak of the journey through the Wall, the landscape and sky and spirits. [Sets starting bond with Xia Anxi to 1, Lao Keung to 0.]
[] Speak of the foe beneath and her own experience delving into their uncanny realm. [Sets starting bond of Xia Anxi to 0, Lao Keung to 1]
Renxiang and Ling Qi were not left to wait outside for very long. News of their arrival was carried instead by a blank faced doorman in robes of deepest black, his face marked by patches of black scale. Passing through the door of that mansion, it was all Ling Qi could do not to visibly shudder. There was death carved into these walls, into the doorway itself, thrumming in the very air. Death and unwavering eyes. Ling Qi would not care to enter this place uninvited, even with all the time in the world to prepare.
Inside, the mansion was well appointed despite the low threat in the air that kept the hairs on the back up her neck up. The halls were wide and well lit, the walls grown over with some kind of carefully cultured flowering ivy which gave off a soothing scent. The sound of softly running water filled her ears, and she saw in glimpses of side rooms many small fountains and artificial waterfalls.
The room they were shown too was a spacious chamber, lit from above by warm, bright light. The light was cast by a single large stone affixed to the ceiling, glowing with a hot yellow light like a miniature sun. It put out as much heat as light, and combined with the artificial waterfall built into the rear of the room, it filled the room with a sticky summer heat more intense than what Ling Qi was used to. In front of the churning pool into which the water fell was a long polished table lined with many seats.
Ling Qi's gaze flicked to Meizhen and Xiao Fen first, the two of them were seated to the left side of the table. Well Meizhen was seated, wearing her Cai gown and the sash that had been gifted her by Bao Qingling. Xiao Fen stood at attention behind her seat. The younger girl had achieved the third realm since Ling Qi had seen her last.
At the center of the table, in a high backed seat was a White caste Bai woman she did not recognize. She wore a glimmering pale blue gown that seemed almost liquid in texture, her white hair was gathered in a series of elaborate looping braids which fell over her shoulders and down her back. Yellow eyes peered down at them from a face rounder than Meizhen's more angular features.
Ling Qi remembered the advice Meizhen had given her in their planning for this.
"It is important among my kin, even more than the rest of the empire to show the proper deference to one's superiors in rank and strength. However, it is just as important to not allow deference to become subservience, at least among nobles. If you act the servant, you will be treated as a servant."
So Ling Qi cast her eyes down, fixing her gaze on the Bai Ambassadors thin, unpainted lips. However she did not bend her neck any further, nor shudder at the wave of animal terror that clawed at her subconscious. That at least she was well practiced with.
You're the only one who would say that," Sixiang grumbled, sounding rattled.
"Ambassador Bai Xilai," Cai Renxiang greeted. Ling Qi made her bows alongside her liege here. "It is my honor to welcome you to the Argent Sect, I regret only that my Mother's arrival was delayed. I hope you will accept my company in her place until this is rectified."
Under half lidded eyes, Ling Qi scanned the others present at the table. Directly to Bai Xilai's left, between her and Ling Qi's friends was a calmly smiling man with deep violet hair, airy grey robes and a wispy figure. He was looking at them with a sort of indulgent curiosity, adjusting the small glass lenses that sat on his nose. Her attention didn't linger on him though because there was someone standing behind him.
A tall figure in black silks, yellow eyes peered at her from behind an opaque black veil. She could make out no more than that about them, their features shrouded in shadow. Just looking at them made Ling Qi feel like a knife's edge were being run across her skin. They were death wrapped in silk.
"It is unfortunate, but matters of governance must come before the indulgence of outsiders," Bai Xilai said. "As her grace's heir you are an acceptable substitute until this evening."
"Thank you for your indulgence, Lady Bai," Cai Renxiang said eloquently, keeping her head bowed for another beat.
On Bai Xilai's right past several Bai functionaries sat a man Ling Qi struggled for a moment to place. It was only when the man glanced her way did his plain, tired features snap into focus. Hou Zhuang, Meizhen's Father, who she had met at last year's tournament.
"For our good allies, the people of the Emerald Seas, such a small thing does not require thanks, but please, sit. We intend to enjoy a small meal before the days activities. You and your second are welcome at my table."
Ling Qi felt the Bai matron's gaze briefly flick toward her. Ling Qi felt for a moment as she were sinking deep into a dark lake, pulled down by the current,water spilling into her lungs. She mastered herself, not allowing a single visible twitch in her stance. The feeling faded. There was no approval or even acknowledgement in the woman's gaze, not really, but neither was there any disdain.
She chose her seat to the left of Cai Renxiang, who sat down across from the ambassador. Here too she remembered Meizhen's words.
"The seat directly to the left of a lord is the most honored, indicating great trust and admiration for martial ability. Seating to the left in general is a sign of favor. In this we favor great Yao, whose left hand was his favored one."
Ling Qi stole another glance at the man seated to the Ambassadors left, who had turned to quietly speak with Meizhen. The chilling shadow behind him still watched the two of them with unblinking eyes.
Bai Xilai rang the delicate crystal handbell which sat on the table in front of her, signaling subtly hidden side doors in the room to open and begin disgorging servants. "Allow me to make further introductions. To my left is the Master Scholar Xia Lushen, husband to Heiress Bai Suzhen."
The thin man's gaze turned back to them and he smiled good naturedly. "Young Lady Cai, Baroness. It pleases me to meet you."
Ling Qi returned the pleasantries. Xia was… the Violet Coral caste, sometimes referred to as sea snakes. They were the Bai clans scholars and astronomers as well as their shipbuilders and navigators. They were obviously different from the local Xia, who were a hill tribe before General Xia Ren took an imperial name.
"It gladdens me that Lady Bai trusts our province so," Cai renxiang said politely.
Ling Qi thought that was a little silly considering his shadow, but niceties were niceties.
"The Duchess Cai is most reliable," Xia Lushen replied. "But I am merely pleased at the opportunity to visit my niece. And, if I may indulge myself, a chance to study the artifacts from these underground creatures."
Ambassador Xilai waited a beat after he finished speaking to continue, an unusual display of respect from a White Serpent to a lower caste, according to what Meizhen had told her. She supposed that he was Bai Suzhen's husband though.
"I need not introduce my niece naturally," Bai Xilai continued,gesturing to Meizhen. "It is known to me that you are good friends."
For a moment, Ling Qi was confused, but then she recalled being told that in public settings all members of a caste referred to each other in direct familial terms. Members of the same generation were brothers and sisters unless married and the younger generation were all nieces and nephews unless they were the older Bai's actual children. This was, according to Meizhen, to foster internal unity. Considering the other things Meizhen had implied, Ling Qi thought the practice had failed at that long ago.
"You are correct, Ambassador, Bai Meizhen has been a steadfast ally throughout my time in the Sect," Cai Renxiang replied. "She has been instrumental to my success."
"Lady Cai gives too much praise," Bai Meizhen replied demurely.
"A Bai should always accept praise which is due," Bai Xilai said, finishing the little verbal dance. "Such is learned from experience however. Experience I am glad she will soon receive."
"The Bai clan has agreed to participate in my outreach then?" Cai Renxiang asked.
"Lady Suzhen has given it due consideration and agrees that it will be a good experience for her niece," Bai Xilai replied. Ling Qi very much noticed that she said nothing about the viability of the project itself. There were limits to politeness it seemed. As servants began to stream in setting out the dishes, Ling Qi's gaze turned to the right, studying the other two attendees sitting between Bai Xilai and Hou Zhuang, who sat furthest to the right on their side of the table.
They were both fairly young at Ling Qi's guess it was hard to know just by looking with cultivators, but Ling Qi judged them no more than eighteen or nineteen, and she was getting better at figuring that out. The one directly to Bai Xilai's right was a tall, willowy young man, even sitting down. He had an aristocratic, handsome face, and long black hair that fell to his shoulders shot through with streaks of deepest violet. His yellow eyes were fairly striking, she thought he might actually be wearing a touch of eye shadow. He reminded her of Lin Hai, in style, with closely fitted blue and grey clothes.
She judged him to be of the same caste as Xia Lushen.
The second was probably the biggest Bai she had ever seen. He probably had a centimeter or two on her, with a much more solid build than his kin. He wore armor much like the guards outside, but with the sleeves absent. This left his heavily muscled arms bare, save for a pair of bronze bands around his upper arms. His skin had a ruddier tinge than the other Bai, and his arms and hands, particularly his knuckles were covered by dark red scales. His features were more masculine to Ling Qi's eye, but still held some of the aristocratic sharpness she expected from a Bai. His dark brownish red hair was shaved near to his scalp though.
His caste was obvious, The Red Python, considered the lowest caste besides the Grey -the mortals-. They were typically laborers and craftsmen in more common fields, with a fair number serving as the foot soldiers of the Bai's armies. However his cultivation was no less than his companions, sitting firmly at the sixth step of the green realm.
"On my right are two of the candidates the clan has selected to be a part of her retinue. Xia Anxi is well recommended among his generation as an expert astrologer, speaker and singer," Bai Xilai praised, gesturing to the young man to her immediate right.
"An interesting choice," Cai Renxiang said. "I have no reason to doubt your words of praise."
"It is my understanding that there are interesting things in the far south's sky," Xia Anxi said with a thin smile. "And that these foreigners hold some esteem for musical talent."
"It is more the particulars of my style," Ling Qi said, speaking up for the first time. "However I am certain your assistance to Lady Meizhen will be invaluable."
"Is that so," he mused. "Well I might like to hear a demonstration of your style then Baroness, and see for myself."
"The other," Bai Xilai said, cutting him off more swiftly, "Lao Keung. Lady Suzhen has sponsored him specifically as a promising officer, and due to certain circumstances judges that he will be best served completing his training for that role leading my nieces guard detachment."
Lao Keung did not smile as he dipped his head. Ling Qi thought she saw a glimmer of black humor in his eyes. "It is an honor to so directly serve the great White Serpents. I look forward to adding my own small strength to guarding the expedition's safety. I hope to learn from your experiences with foreign foes and battlefields."
"And lastly, there is Hou Zhuang, who is here to observe as well," Bai Xilai finished dismissively.
As she finished speaking everyone fell silent to allow the servants to lay out the meal, and Ling Qi considered what she should do going forward. Cai renxiang would continue engaging with the Ambassador. All of them, Meizhen, Renxiang, and Ling Qi, had agreed that she would be better served helping to sound out the lower status members of the delegation. It would be harder for Meizhen to really get anything out of them so she was not only helping their expedition, but also her friend.
She glanced between the two of them and considered what topic to try and open conversation with.
[] Speak of the journey through the Wall, the landscape and sky and spirits. [Sets starting bond with Xia Anxi to 1, Lao Keung to 0.]
[] Speak of the foe beneath and her own experience delving into their uncanny realm. [Sets starting bond of Xia Anxi to 0, Lao Keung to 1]
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- Location
- Leeds
Pretty sure the Bai have an internal competition to trick outsiders by being the most cartoon villainish they can manage.
Wow. Feels like she's going at a faster pace than even Meizing was. Am I wrong?
The highest of high praise!
Obviously i will be going for the chiseled muscles.
CedeTheBees
Probably high right now
- Location
- Somewhere
- Pronouns
- They/Them
[] Speak of the journey through the Wall, the landscape and sky and spirits. [Sets starting bond with Xia Anxi to 1, Lao Keung to 0.]
Eyyyyyy fellow musician
Eyyyyyy fellow musician
It's literally just before the end of year tournament.
If she hadn't hit full green by now she'd be, well, Xiulan's pace.