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.
LucidProp
Pocky Eating MafiaDoka
God, imagine if Blood Fall Meizhen met canon Ling Qi.
She can't regret the path they mutually decided to walk together, but would the sight of a Ling Qi and Meizhen that's found happiness and purpose outside each other wound her?
I wonder what level of favor Mu Wuye has. I know the initial impression was that the empress would send someone not highly favored to marry out of the peaks. But a personal disciple of a prism cultivator cannot be low on the totem pole even in the imperial clan. are they a highly favored scion sent to ES as a sign of support? and because empress belive it's actually in his benefit
- Location
- Unknown
I think at least part of why this particular heir has been sent is because if their egg cracks mid courtship this is the place where they'll receive the least push back while still being able to theoretically continue both family's bloodlines.
(while also acting as further testing of if Shenhua's reproductive breakthrough is reproducible)
which is its own form of tacit support in a way
Marrying into a ducal clan is one thing, marrying the heir of a ducal clan another. While it may not be as close to the throne as many other potential positions, for someone not in immediate line of succession it's still relatively equal, if not a step up.
More importantly though, it's also a much more independent position of power, rather than being the head of a ministry or a general of the army. for someone who wants to develop their own power base, or just wants to be away from the imperial one, that's a major boon.
- Location
- USA
- Pronouns
- He/His/Him
[X] Ask Mu Wuye about their own blade style, its insipirations and themes
We already know about the Cai, I want to know more about the future partner to our Lady!
We already know about the Cai, I want to know more about the future partner to our Lady!
- Location
- United States
- Pronouns
- They/Them
We were given the option to let an awkward person hyperfixate, I'm shocked more people didn't come out of the woodwork to vote on it.
- Pronouns
- They/Them
Honestly, same. I had expected for there to be like an additional twenty or so people lol.
several votes that were this one-sided had low turnouts in the past too
so I guess this is just how landslide wins go
Not always.
Uber-driving the General was one of the votes with most turnover in the Quest's history... Though that feels like exception.
Just this time there is no deep impact in the vote...
- Pronouns
- They/Them
That's a valid point, if there is an obvious winner, then there is less of a reason to vote yourself, when you were already going to be supporting that option.
Aranfan
Team Plasma Grunt
I think it almost certainly would. Like here is a fully self actualized LQ who is still Meizhen's friend and ally. Without having turned herself into a tool for Meizhen's benefit. That is as close to a rebuke of LQ becoming Meizhen's maid as possible.
- Location
- United States
I was thinking about our new defense ourt that Ling Qi cobbled together from Kohatu's legacy which she gifted us as our sister-mother. Specifically, thinking about the anti-finisher stunt it has:
Ruin Scattered Rebirth said:
Obviously, this is a really cool and powerful technique. The clause on not being reduced to zero qi during the stunt means that the art's other technique, which soaks damage for allies by paying qi, can't run out of juice. As long as there's no Shen or Sovereignty mixed into the attacks, she can facetank for an entire formation of troops. I believe Elder Zhou had a similar schtick, though much much more powerful and approached completely differently.
But we should also recognize that the tech is really funny. It doesn't protect Ling Qi from injury. It says it "will allow no wound of body nor spirit to stop or slow you" in the fluff, and in the mechanics that she can't die. And that all injury gets undone at the conclusion of the technique. It sure sounds to me like if she takes enough damage while it's running, she'll be clickity-clacking around the battlefield as a skeleton. And wouldn't that just make our teacher proud?
Especially if the unrestrained drawing on liminal energies demanded by the technique reveals Ling Qi's domain weapon and its new shape as a pair of cute horns shaped of living shadow attached to her skull, which she's totally going to get.
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Also partly I think the first impressions of Cai style would be less useful than expounding o their own style. Especially when we know a lot about Cai style as a layman already
Something Worth Believing In
A/N: Another omake for the omake throne @yrsillar, hopefully it's up to sidestory standards
I've been writing this on and off for a little bit (would've gotten it done sooner if I didn't get addicted to Dynasty Warriors) hope it's to everyone's liking
Something Worth Believing In
_________________________
Luo Xian walked without aim or direction, the events of the week echoing in her mind as one foot fell mechanically in front of the other. Only a few days ago, she had been a student in the outer sect medical pavilion, eagerly drinking in all the teaching her sect points could buy as she took her first steps on the path of becoming a healer. The next, she had been cast out, barred from the pavilion entirely for using the Argent Peak's resources to damage a fellow Disciple's meridians and only 'saved' from being banished from the sect entirely by the fact that none could prove she had done it on purpose.
Only she had done no such thing. She had followed her instructions to the letter and double checked the medication she had been using, the only possibility is that the boy had been poisoned by another. Her protestations fell on deaf ears, of course, and so she had found herself shunned by many she had called friends. Even her family censured her, ordering her to remain at the sect and not return home.
She had known where she stood even before they had sent her to the other side of the Emerald Seas, the fourth child of a non-inheriting noble who could only hope to perform admirably enough to earn the patronage of higher powers for the sake of her clan, and yet the simple letter she had received cut her deeply.
Her pride was all that kept her from screaming, but even then only tenuously as she was reduced to scouring the wilderness around the mountain for basic reagents and cultivation sites that hadn't yet been claimed.
It was during one such 'expedition' that she happened upon a group of first stage disciples who had disturbed a Frostwolf den, icy mists dancing across the beasts' fur as they menaced and circled their prey. A small part of her compelled Luo Xian to walk away. Would they not do the same, after all, if they saw her in mortal danger?
Another part, full of stubborn pride and the drive to save lives that saw her awaken in the first place, had her charging forward with her spear in hand. The Spirit Beasts lept back, regrouping in the face of her interruption, but the surprise didn't last long. At Middle Yellow in Spirit with a Physical cultivation trailing just behind and only a few basic combat Arts to draw on, it was unlikely she'd make a much harder meal for the wolves.
Interposing herself between them with a grim scowl, Luo Xian kept her attention on the Beasts as she addressed her fellow Disciples. "What are you standing around for? Run!" Good, she thought, she sounded more confident than she felt. It would have been embarrassing if they knew her terror.
The sound of retreating footsteps behind her told the healer that the others were retreating. Letting out a sigh of relief, she was glad that she had managed to save them, even as the growling wolves started to circle closer. Dwelling on anyone else was a luxury she couldn't afford at the moment however, and while she was loath to cede initiative to the beasts, attempting to lash out would play into their jaws.
Luo Xian's patience was rewarded as one of the wolves lunged for her and, with a twist and a thrust, found the tip of her spear in its throat. A final act of spite from the beast saw frost washing down her weapon towards her body in time with its fading heartbeat. In the seconds before it reached her, the healer cycled heavenly Qi through her arms, heat from the lightning keeping the biting chill from digging into her.
The distraction cost her though as one of its packmates leapt towards her, teeth bared. She could have tried to turn, to pull her spear from the dead creature to make an attempt to defend herself, but she would have been too slow. Instead, she simply closed her eyes and made her peace as her senses were filled by the sound of a bellowing roar and the rush of wind.
When the expected pain never arrived, the healer opened her eyes in confusion.
Stood before her, armoured hand clenched tight around the throat of the now still wolf, was a towering man in polished steel. Even at a glance, she could tell he was in his third stage, the weight of his Qi radiating off of him like the sun's rays. "You stand before Gan Guangli, beasts! Flee, or break upon me."
The surviving wolves, seemingly re-evaluating their chances, growled and snapped at the second intruder before turning tail and running away. Leaning against her spear for support, Luo Xian watched the treeline with her saviour until they were certain the Spirit Beasts had left for good.
Turning around to face her, the giant disciple - Gan Guangli, she reminded herself - seemed to shrink slightly as he gave her a broad grin, though he still towered over her. "Ha, arrived not a moment too soon. My thanks for rescuing my supporters. When they said someone had remained behind to protect their escape, I came running as fast as I could." He tilted his head slightly, searching her face for something. "Although…" Tilting his head, he crossed his arms as he considered her for a moment. "I hadn't expected to see you out here, miss Luo. What possessed you to rush head first into danger like that?"
Perhaps it was the knowledge that she was a hair's breadth from death, perhaps it was because he had saved her life, but something within Luo Xian gave way and she began to vent about everything that had happened from the medical pavilion to her exile in all but name. She didn't know when she began to cry during her tirade, nor did she know when she fell to her knees, only snapping out of her fugue state when she felt a hand on her shoulder and saw Gan Guangli kneeling in front of her. His smile had changed, smaller and less boisterous but not less genuine, as he gave his simple response.
"I believe you."
______________________
While she wished she could say that the offered hand had solved all her issues, Luo Xian was never naive enough to believe it would be so easy, finding a place in Gan Guangli's forces gave her back something precious: hope. The reputation of "her" actions in the medical pavilion had followed her even here and left her having to work twice as hard for half as much respect but with every wound she helped heal after a battle, every beast struck down, every sect mission completed wearing the white sash of baron Gan's lady, she clawed her way back and distrustful glares gradually gave way to respectful nods.
The day they had all been waiting for arrived with the coming of the yearly tournament. And, while she knew she had little chance of acquitting herself well enough to reach the later rounds, Luo Xian was proud to enter all the same, in order to support her commander. And when he soared through to the finals himself, she was among the first to raise her fist and cheer, as well as offer her respects to him with the others.
Standing before him, hands over their chests, she and the other unattached or common born disciples had decided on only a single boon they could ask of him, one of their number stepping forward to ask. "Baron Gan, when our responsibility to the Sect is at an end, it would honour us if we could serve under your command once more."
For the first time in her service under him, Luo Xian saw a look of surprise cross Gan Guangli's face as he gazed from one disciple to the next before his grin slowly returned and he mirrored their salute, fist pressing to his chest as a sign of respect. "Ha! Very well then. Excel in your service and I would be proud to lead such loyal veterans as yourselves!"
With his final command issued, his followers stood a little straighter, each of them knowing they had a new goal on the horizon to march towards.
I've been writing this on and off for a little bit (would've gotten it done sooner if I didn't get addicted to Dynasty Warriors) hope it's to everyone's liking
Something Worth Believing In
_________________________
Luo Xian walked without aim or direction, the events of the week echoing in her mind as one foot fell mechanically in front of the other. Only a few days ago, she had been a student in the outer sect medical pavilion, eagerly drinking in all the teaching her sect points could buy as she took her first steps on the path of becoming a healer. The next, she had been cast out, barred from the pavilion entirely for using the Argent Peak's resources to damage a fellow Disciple's meridians and only 'saved' from being banished from the sect entirely by the fact that none could prove she had done it on purpose.
Only she had done no such thing. She had followed her instructions to the letter and double checked the medication she had been using, the only possibility is that the boy had been poisoned by another. Her protestations fell on deaf ears, of course, and so she had found herself shunned by many she had called friends. Even her family censured her, ordering her to remain at the sect and not return home.
She had known where she stood even before they had sent her to the other side of the Emerald Seas, the fourth child of a non-inheriting noble who could only hope to perform admirably enough to earn the patronage of higher powers for the sake of her clan, and yet the simple letter she had received cut her deeply.
Her pride was all that kept her from screaming, but even then only tenuously as she was reduced to scouring the wilderness around the mountain for basic reagents and cultivation sites that hadn't yet been claimed.
It was during one such 'expedition' that she happened upon a group of first stage disciples who had disturbed a Frostwolf den, icy mists dancing across the beasts' fur as they menaced and circled their prey. A small part of her compelled Luo Xian to walk away. Would they not do the same, after all, if they saw her in mortal danger?
Another part, full of stubborn pride and the drive to save lives that saw her awaken in the first place, had her charging forward with her spear in hand. The Spirit Beasts lept back, regrouping in the face of her interruption, but the surprise didn't last long. At Middle Yellow in Spirit with a Physical cultivation trailing just behind and only a few basic combat Arts to draw on, it was unlikely she'd make a much harder meal for the wolves.
Interposing herself between them with a grim scowl, Luo Xian kept her attention on the Beasts as she addressed her fellow Disciples. "What are you standing around for? Run!" Good, she thought, she sounded more confident than she felt. It would have been embarrassing if they knew her terror.
The sound of retreating footsteps behind her told the healer that the others were retreating. Letting out a sigh of relief, she was glad that she had managed to save them, even as the growling wolves started to circle closer. Dwelling on anyone else was a luxury she couldn't afford at the moment however, and while she was loath to cede initiative to the beasts, attempting to lash out would play into their jaws.
Luo Xian's patience was rewarded as one of the wolves lunged for her and, with a twist and a thrust, found the tip of her spear in its throat. A final act of spite from the beast saw frost washing down her weapon towards her body in time with its fading heartbeat. In the seconds before it reached her, the healer cycled heavenly Qi through her arms, heat from the lightning keeping the biting chill from digging into her.
The distraction cost her though as one of its packmates leapt towards her, teeth bared. She could have tried to turn, to pull her spear from the dead creature to make an attempt to defend herself, but she would have been too slow. Instead, she simply closed her eyes and made her peace as her senses were filled by the sound of a bellowing roar and the rush of wind.
When the expected pain never arrived, the healer opened her eyes in confusion.
Stood before her, armoured hand clenched tight around the throat of the now still wolf, was a towering man in polished steel. Even at a glance, she could tell he was in his third stage, the weight of his Qi radiating off of him like the sun's rays. "You stand before Gan Guangli, beasts! Flee, or break upon me."
The surviving wolves, seemingly re-evaluating their chances, growled and snapped at the second intruder before turning tail and running away. Leaning against her spear for support, Luo Xian watched the treeline with her saviour until they were certain the Spirit Beasts had left for good.
Turning around to face her, the giant disciple - Gan Guangli, she reminded herself - seemed to shrink slightly as he gave her a broad grin, though he still towered over her. "Ha, arrived not a moment too soon. My thanks for rescuing my supporters. When they said someone had remained behind to protect their escape, I came running as fast as I could." He tilted his head slightly, searching her face for something. "Although…" Tilting his head, he crossed his arms as he considered her for a moment. "I hadn't expected to see you out here, miss Luo. What possessed you to rush head first into danger like that?"
Perhaps it was the knowledge that she was a hair's breadth from death, perhaps it was because he had saved her life, but something within Luo Xian gave way and she began to vent about everything that had happened from the medical pavilion to her exile in all but name. She didn't know when she began to cry during her tirade, nor did she know when she fell to her knees, only snapping out of her fugue state when she felt a hand on her shoulder and saw Gan Guangli kneeling in front of her. His smile had changed, smaller and less boisterous but not less genuine, as he gave his simple response.
"I believe you."
______________________
While she wished she could say that the offered hand had solved all her issues, Luo Xian was never naive enough to believe it would be so easy, finding a place in Gan Guangli's forces gave her back something precious: hope. The reputation of "her" actions in the medical pavilion had followed her even here and left her having to work twice as hard for half as much respect but with every wound she helped heal after a battle, every beast struck down, every sect mission completed wearing the white sash of baron Gan's lady, she clawed her way back and distrustful glares gradually gave way to respectful nods.
The day they had all been waiting for arrived with the coming of the yearly tournament. And, while she knew she had little chance of acquitting herself well enough to reach the later rounds, Luo Xian was proud to enter all the same, in order to support her commander. And when he soared through to the finals himself, she was among the first to raise her fist and cheer, as well as offer her respects to him with the others.
Standing before him, hands over their chests, she and the other unattached or common born disciples had decided on only a single boon they could ask of him, one of their number stepping forward to ask. "Baron Gan, when our responsibility to the Sect is at an end, it would honour us if we could serve under your command once more."
For the first time in her service under him, Luo Xian saw a look of surprise cross Gan Guangli's face as he gazed from one disciple to the next before his grin slowly returned and he mirrored their salute, fist pressing to his chest as a sign of respect. "Ha! Very well then. Excel in your service and I would be proud to lead such loyal veterans as yourselves!"
With his final command issued, his followers stood a little straighter, each of them knowing they had a new goal on the horizon to march towards.
- Pronouns
- They/Them
Nice omake/potential side story, though i do wonder what nefarious scoundrel was the one to frame her, and if they'd try and drag her down and ruin her again.
She was more collateral damage in someone's attempt to suppress a rival. I had an idea initially that whoever it was either got caught trying it again or ended up getting sniffed out by the CRX faction as a favour to her to help clear her name but I couldn't fit it in in a way that didn't feel inorganic and like it leaned a little too hard into "OC Donut Steel" territory.
Honestly, I feel like it works better with her moving past it and finding a new path for herself anyway
Honestly, I feel like it works better with her moving past it and finding a new path for herself anyway
Year 46: Month 1 Arc 5-3
"I'm curious, what style do you practice, Mu Wuye," Ling Qi asked. "I'd guess a straight sword style from your bearing and rank…"
"An easy thing to guess. I eschew the more exotic blades that are currently in fashion in some circles. There is a simple elegance to the jian that is lacking in attempts to add fripperies and extravagance to its shape. My Uncle and teacher prefer the hand-and-half variant, which is a much more reasonable alteration, but I myself prefer the single-handed, two-edged blade," Mu Wuye said. "It is the blade of duelists and champions for good reason."
"I have little experience with it, beyond the basics," Ling Qi said.
"A sword is a weapon of precision, where heavy arms such as mine are a soldier's tool, to break apart formations, the sword is what comes after, to pick apart those who remain and clash with command," Xia Lin said.
Mu Wuye nodded fervently. "The sword is excellently designed to maximize one's options in close combat, larger swords are more akin to polearms in that their greater length is more a tool of area denial than anything else. While reach has its advantages, proper footwork can negate this and turn it into a disadvantage, and this is not considering the conceptual advantages which an orthodox swordsman has in single combat."
"Ah, this is the 'Way of cutting'?" Gan Guangli wondered. "Or sword qi, as some call it. The razor focus on a tool which has such singular purpose grants a purity of intent that can be lacking in more esoteric ways, at lower realms."
"That is a surface-level analysis of the advantages of swordsmanship," Mu Wuye replied, turning fully to face them. "To answer the first question, I practice the orthodox style of the Mu, The Pale Night's Whisper, originally refined by our founder in her study under our great ancestor, the Herald of Endings."
Th… he fixed her with a look. "That resonation is what you doubtlessly sensed. I admit I did not notice your own inclination until I peered closer."
Sixiang giggled in her head. Ling Qi carefully quashed any reaction but a pleasant smile. "It is one thing to hear of the Imperial family's storied heritage, but another to feel it in person," Ling Qi said smoothly.
They gave a small nod of acknowledgment, showing no sign that they didn't accept their answer. "Yes, it finds its strength in its meditation on the eternal 'moment' that borders on which all turns, between past and future, between life and death. In every moment, there are countless endings in the world around you. By divining these, understanding these, one may achieve the perfect 'cut' that cannot be denied."
Ling Qi nodded, the chagrin and slight guilt for her prying replaced with curiosity. "I see, yes, that conception of ending is doubtlessly potent for a sword style. My meditations are more about the cyclic nature of it all. As you say, there are always new endings passing in the world around us, but in passing, the old becomes the new, the material from which the future is made. Even that which seems a great ending to human eyes the drying of rivers, the crumbling of mountains, these too are only steps, just the same as the small endings which pass us day by day."
"My meditations do not focus on the before and after, but your words sound similar to those I have shared with my cousins who have chosen less martial paths. Given your background, I must commend you for finding such parallels entirely alone," Mu Wuye said.
Ling Qi took in the others around them, the bemusement of her friends, and smiled. "I have had my teachers, but it is not easy to follow. The Imperial family has surely reached far more impressive heights than my small musings."
"It is so, but talent and merit know no blood. Climb and you will do the Empire proud in its support for your path."
A little condescending, but also not wrong. The great sect system was the only reason she had a fraction of the opportunities she had seized.
"I am at least academically familiar with the style, even if I have never seen a practitioner in person," Cai Renxiang said. "On a physical level, a swift striking style that eschews parries and direct guards, favoring deflection and avoidance?"
"Those are the principles of the mortal kata. Receiving blows puts the student in the wrong mindset; a proper master of the style is simply never struck because there is nothing to strike, as ephemeral as the pall of the reaper, they cannot be harmed by fleeting things. Parrys are a point of debate in the style. I would say it is clinches that are disfavored, but a swift movement, a deflection, as you say, is within the style's remit. The purpose is to instill in the student an aversion to stillness in battle. One should only be still when the cutting is done, and your foes are at your feet."
"...I find a focus on motion familiar, though mine is a more forceful thing… Advancement. One should not be still but moving forward. Seizing initiative, breaking obstacles, achieving objectives."
"That does resemble the little direct recordings of the Cai style developed by your mother. I should be interested to know its inspirations, but I know such things are likely secrets."
"...It is tied into the progression of time, the contemplation of how the now becomes the future, inspiration to theory, theory to action, action to change, change to victory," Cai Renxiang said after a short pause.
Mu Wuye, rubbed their chin thoughtfully, eyes distant and considering. "Heavily based in heavenly energies, then? I would have guessed more mountain, or you're clans 'light' just from the description of the effect."
"There is an element of light's order, but it primarily meditates upon heaven," Cai Renxiang agreed.
"It is easy to forget that it is not merely sparks and lightning, but the rush of inspiration, thought, and the drive to action which makes up the most yang of elements," Gan Guangli said, though he seemed a tad mystified by the direction of the conversation.
Mu Wuye nodded, "Indeed. Well, I shall look forward to the clash of 'the moment' and your progress, perhaps we shall both learn something if you should indulge me. How they interact will be interesting."
"Very rudely, in my experience," Ling Qi joked quietly.
The problem with her notions of cyclic ending and their interaction with Cai Renxiang's sword arts was a bit, well…
Her Frozen Soul made its statement, and Cai Renxiang's met it with something akin to a 'Yes. And?' Before running her over, unless she'd had time to build toward more of a crescendo.
Cai Renxiang shot her an amused look. "I do not doubt that we may find a moment to do so in these coming months. But, all you are dismissed for now. Enjoy the celebration. Mu Wuye, would you accompany me as I make further greetings."
"Of course, Cai Renxiang," they- she would probably stick with that in her head for now- agreed, "It has been pleasant meeting you all. Fare well for this evening."
They echoed the farewells, made their bows, and parted ways as their liege, and her betrothed moved away to give greetings and receive congratulations from others among the Cai's vassals.
"If I might request Lady Ling accompany me, now?" Meng Dan said lightly, offering his hand.
"I shall grant it," Ling Qi said. If she took a slightly deeper breath before she took it, then there were none to notice.
"I noticed."
"I. Notice! Gloves?"
Sixiang and Qiyi didn't count. And no, she didn't need gloves.
"Ah, I suppose we should take to our own business then," Gan Guangli laughed.
"I have no intentions of accompanying you. Face your own battles with bravery, Gan Guangli," Xia Lin said dryly.
What did she…?
Oh. Hm. There really were quite a number of eyes on Gan weren't there? Hawkish and sharp peering from behind fluttering fans or veils like the eyes of falcons on juicy prey.
…She hadn't considered that Guangli hadn't fully been joking earlier.
"It is painfully difficult to give rejections without offending the heart… or the head. But a man must undergo many trials," He sighed. "At least wish me a good fortune?"
"Good fortune, comrade."
…And there she went, beelining for the refreshment tables. Sometimes, she envied Xia Lin's capacity for bluntness, piercing through to her goals without remorse or mercy.
"Good fortune, my friend," Meng Dan chuckled. "I hope the advice we spoke of helps."
"I am sure it will, sir Meng!" Gan Guangli said, tapping his fist against his chest in salute.
"What's this now?" Ling Qi said. "Are you so skilled in these arts, Meng Dan?"
He smiled under her flat and unimpressed look until she broke into a grin, too.
"Only insofar as any young gentleman's education goes."
She scrutinized him a moment longer before nodding imperiously. "I shall accept it. Good luck, Gan Guangli."
They parted ways, the attention on them was mostly subtle. "Is it well to do this before you announce your intentions?" Ling Qi said under her breath.
"So long as we stay well in public, I should think so," Meng Dan replied. "The Meng Clan will do so tomorrow; there will be many such announcements on the temple tour. I would expect the Elder Xuan's to deliver theirs as well."
At such a large wedding of course, many of the attendants would be announcing their own plans. It was only natural to ride the high of good fortune that way. Still… it was daunting to her. The Bao might well make their public offer, too, if they'd caught wind.
She felt utterly ridiculous at the idea. She was no princess or heiress to be earning such attention. Certainly, she was a clan head, but only in the most technical sense.
"Oi, quit that! If you don't, I'm gonna collaborate with Hanyi on some of her ideas you know!"
She scoffed under her breath.
Meng Dan tilted his head curiously. "Still uncomfortable with the notion?"
"A bit," Ling Qi said, idly tightening her grip on his hand. It was quite warm. "But don't mind that. What did you have in mind?"
"I had considered a few things, introductions to a few in my circle to begin tying our networks together, but… I have elected to be a bit bold. Dances are not in the style of the Imperial Court, but.."
"The Emerald Seas has its own traditions," Ling Qi said. "...I don't object."
She followed the line of his gaze too…
[ ] The fountains, where the strains of stringed instruments rose, and pairs danced in courtly elegance.
[ ] To a blazing brazier, where percussion rolled out, and partners circled in energetic motion.
"An easy thing to guess. I eschew the more exotic blades that are currently in fashion in some circles. There is a simple elegance to the jian that is lacking in attempts to add fripperies and extravagance to its shape. My Uncle and teacher prefer the hand-and-half variant, which is a much more reasonable alteration, but I myself prefer the single-handed, two-edged blade," Mu Wuye said. "It is the blade of duelists and champions for good reason."
"I have little experience with it, beyond the basics," Ling Qi said.
"A sword is a weapon of precision, where heavy arms such as mine are a soldier's tool, to break apart formations, the sword is what comes after, to pick apart those who remain and clash with command," Xia Lin said.
Mu Wuye nodded fervently. "The sword is excellently designed to maximize one's options in close combat, larger swords are more akin to polearms in that their greater length is more a tool of area denial than anything else. While reach has its advantages, proper footwork can negate this and turn it into a disadvantage, and this is not considering the conceptual advantages which an orthodox swordsman has in single combat."
"Ah, this is the 'Way of cutting'?" Gan Guangli wondered. "Or sword qi, as some call it. The razor focus on a tool which has such singular purpose grants a purity of intent that can be lacking in more esoteric ways, at lower realms."
"That is a surface-level analysis of the advantages of swordsmanship," Mu Wuye replied, turning fully to face them. "To answer the first question, I practice the orthodox style of the Mu, The Pale Night's Whisper, originally refined by our founder in her study under our great ancestor, the Herald of Endings."
Th… he fixed her with a look. "That resonation is what you doubtlessly sensed. I admit I did not notice your own inclination until I peered closer."
Sixiang giggled in her head. Ling Qi carefully quashed any reaction but a pleasant smile. "It is one thing to hear of the Imperial family's storied heritage, but another to feel it in person," Ling Qi said smoothly.
They gave a small nod of acknowledgment, showing no sign that they didn't accept their answer. "Yes, it finds its strength in its meditation on the eternal 'moment' that borders on which all turns, between past and future, between life and death. In every moment, there are countless endings in the world around you. By divining these, understanding these, one may achieve the perfect 'cut' that cannot be denied."
Ling Qi nodded, the chagrin and slight guilt for her prying replaced with curiosity. "I see, yes, that conception of ending is doubtlessly potent for a sword style. My meditations are more about the cyclic nature of it all. As you say, there are always new endings passing in the world around us, but in passing, the old becomes the new, the material from which the future is made. Even that which seems a great ending to human eyes the drying of rivers, the crumbling of mountains, these too are only steps, just the same as the small endings which pass us day by day."
"My meditations do not focus on the before and after, but your words sound similar to those I have shared with my cousins who have chosen less martial paths. Given your background, I must commend you for finding such parallels entirely alone," Mu Wuye said.
Ling Qi took in the others around them, the bemusement of her friends, and smiled. "I have had my teachers, but it is not easy to follow. The Imperial family has surely reached far more impressive heights than my small musings."
"It is so, but talent and merit know no blood. Climb and you will do the Empire proud in its support for your path."
A little condescending, but also not wrong. The great sect system was the only reason she had a fraction of the opportunities she had seized.
"I am at least academically familiar with the style, even if I have never seen a practitioner in person," Cai Renxiang said. "On a physical level, a swift striking style that eschews parries and direct guards, favoring deflection and avoidance?"
"Those are the principles of the mortal kata. Receiving blows puts the student in the wrong mindset; a proper master of the style is simply never struck because there is nothing to strike, as ephemeral as the pall of the reaper, they cannot be harmed by fleeting things. Parrys are a point of debate in the style. I would say it is clinches that are disfavored, but a swift movement, a deflection, as you say, is within the style's remit. The purpose is to instill in the student an aversion to stillness in battle. One should only be still when the cutting is done, and your foes are at your feet."
"...I find a focus on motion familiar, though mine is a more forceful thing… Advancement. One should not be still but moving forward. Seizing initiative, breaking obstacles, achieving objectives."
"That does resemble the little direct recordings of the Cai style developed by your mother. I should be interested to know its inspirations, but I know such things are likely secrets."
"...It is tied into the progression of time, the contemplation of how the now becomes the future, inspiration to theory, theory to action, action to change, change to victory," Cai Renxiang said after a short pause.
Mu Wuye, rubbed their chin thoughtfully, eyes distant and considering. "Heavily based in heavenly energies, then? I would have guessed more mountain, or you're clans 'light' just from the description of the effect."
"There is an element of light's order, but it primarily meditates upon heaven," Cai Renxiang agreed.
"It is easy to forget that it is not merely sparks and lightning, but the rush of inspiration, thought, and the drive to action which makes up the most yang of elements," Gan Guangli said, though he seemed a tad mystified by the direction of the conversation.
Mu Wuye nodded, "Indeed. Well, I shall look forward to the clash of 'the moment' and your progress, perhaps we shall both learn something if you should indulge me. How they interact will be interesting."
"Very rudely, in my experience," Ling Qi joked quietly.
The problem with her notions of cyclic ending and their interaction with Cai Renxiang's sword arts was a bit, well…
Her Frozen Soul made its statement, and Cai Renxiang's met it with something akin to a 'Yes. And?' Before running her over, unless she'd had time to build toward more of a crescendo.
Cai Renxiang shot her an amused look. "I do not doubt that we may find a moment to do so in these coming months. But, all you are dismissed for now. Enjoy the celebration. Mu Wuye, would you accompany me as I make further greetings."
"Of course, Cai Renxiang," they- she would probably stick with that in her head for now- agreed, "It has been pleasant meeting you all. Fare well for this evening."
They echoed the farewells, made their bows, and parted ways as their liege, and her betrothed moved away to give greetings and receive congratulations from others among the Cai's vassals.
"If I might request Lady Ling accompany me, now?" Meng Dan said lightly, offering his hand.
"I shall grant it," Ling Qi said. If she took a slightly deeper breath before she took it, then there were none to notice.
"I noticed."
"I. Notice! Gloves?"
Sixiang and Qiyi didn't count. And no, she didn't need gloves.
"Ah, I suppose we should take to our own business then," Gan Guangli laughed.
"I have no intentions of accompanying you. Face your own battles with bravery, Gan Guangli," Xia Lin said dryly.
What did she…?
Oh. Hm. There really were quite a number of eyes on Gan weren't there? Hawkish and sharp peering from behind fluttering fans or veils like the eyes of falcons on juicy prey.
…She hadn't considered that Guangli hadn't fully been joking earlier.
"It is painfully difficult to give rejections without offending the heart… or the head. But a man must undergo many trials," He sighed. "At least wish me a good fortune?"
"Good fortune, comrade."
…And there she went, beelining for the refreshment tables. Sometimes, she envied Xia Lin's capacity for bluntness, piercing through to her goals without remorse or mercy.
"Good fortune, my friend," Meng Dan chuckled. "I hope the advice we spoke of helps."
"I am sure it will, sir Meng!" Gan Guangli said, tapping his fist against his chest in salute.
"What's this now?" Ling Qi said. "Are you so skilled in these arts, Meng Dan?"
He smiled under her flat and unimpressed look until she broke into a grin, too.
"Only insofar as any young gentleman's education goes."
She scrutinized him a moment longer before nodding imperiously. "I shall accept it. Good luck, Gan Guangli."
They parted ways, the attention on them was mostly subtle. "Is it well to do this before you announce your intentions?" Ling Qi said under her breath.
"So long as we stay well in public, I should think so," Meng Dan replied. "The Meng Clan will do so tomorrow; there will be many such announcements on the temple tour. I would expect the Elder Xuan's to deliver theirs as well."
At such a large wedding of course, many of the attendants would be announcing their own plans. It was only natural to ride the high of good fortune that way. Still… it was daunting to her. The Bao might well make their public offer, too, if they'd caught wind.
She felt utterly ridiculous at the idea. She was no princess or heiress to be earning such attention. Certainly, she was a clan head, but only in the most technical sense.
"Oi, quit that! If you don't, I'm gonna collaborate with Hanyi on some of her ideas you know!"
She scoffed under her breath.
Meng Dan tilted his head curiously. "Still uncomfortable with the notion?"
"A bit," Ling Qi said, idly tightening her grip on his hand. It was quite warm. "But don't mind that. What did you have in mind?"
"I had considered a few things, introductions to a few in my circle to begin tying our networks together, but… I have elected to be a bit bold. Dances are not in the style of the Imperial Court, but.."
"The Emerald Seas has its own traditions," Ling Qi said. "...I don't object."
She followed the line of his gaze too…
[ ] The fountains, where the strains of stringed instruments rose, and pairs danced in courtly elegance.
[ ] To a blazing brazier, where percussion rolled out, and partners circled in energetic motion.
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[ ] The fountains, where the strains of stringed instruments rose, and pairs danced in courtly elegance.
This feels like it would fit both of them more.
This feels like it would fit both of them more.
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2 hour moratorium for votes