You are...not Tai Lung however much you wish you were. You are, on the other hand, bleeding, tired, and standing before a group of men who wish to kill you and everyone in the city. Especially the group of people trapped in rubble behind you. You flourish your katana for a moment before flicking it clean of blood and sheathing it. Every fiber of your being screamed to simply move forward and cut down those before you. You already took several lives today, what did it matter if you took more? It seemed like no matter how hard you tried you were always going to be a killer. Now was high time that you stop pretending to be something you're not. Still, you somehow could not bring yourself to do so. You just can't help but thinking about what Tai Lung would think of you. The mixture of frustration and confusion at your inner conflict causes you to smile at the irony at it all. It seems like in the end, you were simply a failure in all aspects. A killer who couldn't bring himself to kill. A broken, failure of an assassin that was burdened by feelings. You couldn't help but scoff and laugh at it all as more invaders arrive while you draw a line in the ground. If you were to die a failure then at the very least you hoped it'd look like you died a good man. You crack your knuckles and push the pain lancing all throughout your body. A real hero would give a speech right now. Something that inspired hope in the weak and drove fear into those who wished to do wrong just like Tai Lung would. But you were not Tai Lung and you weren't a hero. You were just someone who was too tired to think up false platitudes for the people around him. You hold out your hands and ready yourself before shouting to the heavens, "You have one choice! Flee now or I'll line the streets with your broken bodies!"
Anonymous
Quoted By:
>>6092443 >Hardship is a crucible and determination to continue is a fuel. I'm just glad we could all do it together. >I'm curious, why did you stick out the first few days. I was hardly pleasant, and your bedside manner hadn't been torn away with exposure to Xin and I yet. Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Thu 05 Sep 2024 01:23:42 No. 6097445 Report Quoted By:
"Hardship is a crucible and determination to continue is a fuel. I'm just glad we could all do it together." You say. Ming squeezes your hand gently. "Me too." She says with a smile. "I am curious though, why did you come with us? I wasn't what you would call approachable and mercifully, it doesn't seem like my and Xin's habits have rubbed off on you." You ask. Ming thinks for a moment and you wonder if she knew herself. "I don't know." She says. "I think...I think when we all had to work together to stop that bat something changed. I saw how my cozy little life was just that. Small. There were three super powerful figures fighting all throughout the city and I somehow got pulled into help. Then you promised me to show me more. I guess I was afraid of going back to a normal boring life. I didn't really comprehend how crazy things would get afterwards. Also, at that moment I think I saw part of that good man you were going to become." You cough and feel your face grow warm. "I don't know what you're talking about. I'm still the tough and mysterious man I've always been." You say. Ming giggles. The two of you sit on the steps for a while enjoying the quiet for a moment before the doors to the jade palace are open and Xin Lan walks through them. "That's far more obvious than what we're used to. What's the occasion?" You ask. Xin Lan shrugs. "I can use doors." They say and hop onto Ming's lap. "So are you two done saying goodbye?" "Yeah. We were just talking about when we all met." Ming says as they wrap their arms around the rabbit. "What'd made you want to hang around us?" She asks. "I stole a lot of money. The big guy was offering a getaway so that's why I tagged along." They say bluntly. Ming gives them an incredulous look. "It's the truth. You think I had feelings back then? The heat was gonna drop on me like a ton of bricks and I wasn't going to stick around for that. Didn't matter that he threatened to kill me. Besides, I'd had heard worse." "Yes but..." Ming stammers. "You stuck around anyways. So it can't be completely true!" "I dunno. The big guy died...and then he didn't." They say. "Dunno why I decided to stick around for longer. Guess I felt something more after that. Then we found Stripes and he threatened to kill the big guy and then we fought. Honestly, we make a lot of threats for family." They admit. Ming throws her hands in the air and gives up. "Well I'm glad you stuck around you little terror." She says hugging them tightly. "Yeah. Me too." They say. Bao arrives next now dress is simple travel robes and eating a cookie. "I had breakfast." She says as she reaches you. "I don't have anyone to say goodbye to." "So all that's missing is Tigress." You say as you stand up to give Bao a place to sit.
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Thu 05 Sep 2024 01:26:41 No. 6097446 Report "I'm here." Tigress says as she makes her way towards you all. "I was wondering who was in the kitchen. Figured it was the rabbit." "Hey!" "I asked for permission though I guess technically everything is mine due to divine right." Bao says. Xin Lan snickers and gives Tigress a snide grin. If Tigress was annoyed she made no indication of it. "If you were hungry, we could have made you something to eat. You didn't need to get into Monkey's snack stash." She says. "No thank you. I just wanted something sweet. Although I wasn't aware they belonged to someone. I just figured they got lost among all the food." Bao says. "You know, you're taking the fact that Bao is Shenlong's wife rather well. I was kind of hoping for more of a reaction. Perhaps you're getting too used to our group's shenanigans." You tease. Tigress huffs. "Unlike you, I know better than to ogle at someone like some kind of source of entertainment." She dismisses. You give her a shrug. "It wouldn't hurt you to be a bit more open. We won't judge." You say but you get no response from Tigress. "Well it seems like we're all set to go-" You're interrupted by the sounds of running coming from the stairs leading into the village. From the sound of it, they're small and light. Far too much for it to be a small adult so it could only be a child. A wolf child stumbles through the doors, drenched in sweat and panting heavily. "Teach! Teach!" He shouts with eyes closed before opening them and noticing you were right in front of him. "Hey. I'm right here." You say jogging over to the child. "What's going on? It's way too early for you to be up." The boy gulps down large lungful's of air before he speaks up. "You're leaving! That's what!" He shouts, hands balled up into small fists. "I had to say goodbye!" Tseten rights themselves and tries to stand as tall as they could. "I'm gonna be the best Kung Fu master ever! Just as good as you! I'm going to work hard every day with Master Shifu and get really strong! I-I'll make sure that no one ever does something bad like at the library again! I...I promise! I'll be just like you teacher!" They announce as their nose dribbles and they try to hold back tears. Ming and Xin Lan give the two of you a smile. >What do you say? >Write in.
Anonymous
>>6097446 You are cruel Luo.
>You'll be better than me, wiser for all the mistakes and misfortune you have seen. You've a strong heart and a determined mind Tseten. I'm proud to call you a student, and next time I see you, perhaps I'll have to call you Master Wolf. >Learn well, Live well, Ha!, Love the world with open arms. Until next time Kiddo. I can't think of a better message to leave him with. Encourage him to be better, give him a bit of well earned advice, and show that we aren't so sad about leaving because it's not really an end. Its simply until next time.
For some reason, all I can think of is "fight little wolf, Fight"
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Thu 05 Sep 2024 22:53:17 No. 6098268 Report Quoted By:
>>6097843 I feel like TL has earned inspiring someone to follow in his Heroic footsteps. Might not be passing the torch just yet but maybe setting up the next generation...err generation after the next? I guess he did inspire the creation of the Five in a fashion.
Either way, TL has spread the embers of hope and one has burned brightly.
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Sat 07 Sep 2024 04:31:07 No. 6099062 Report Quoted By:
You chuckle and ruffle the kid's ears. "That's right. You'll be better than me and you're wiser for all you've been through. You've got a strong heart and determined mind Tseten. I'm proud to call you my student. Next time we meet, you might even have the title of Master. Just don't expect my father to hand it out easily." You motion to the others and begin to make your way out of the Jade Palace for the last time. You raise your arm in farewell before looking over your shoulder and giving the small pup a grin. "Learn well, Live well! Ha! Love the world with open arms! Until next time, kiddo." "Bye! I'll never forget you teach!" Tseten shouts as they fight to hold back the streams of tears running down their face and wave their arm frantically. You lift Bao into your arms and all four of your leap off the side of the mountain to begin your run towards the north vanishing in an instant in the young boy's eyes. "You couldn't help yourself could you?" Xin Lan smirks as flip off a tree branch and swing on the next. "Had to do the whole cool teacher thing." "It's better this way." You say. "Best that his last memories of us are nice ones rather than him seeing what we're really like in a fight. That lesson he can learn when he's older." "You have something on your face Tai Lung." Bao as she wipes the dampness from under your eyes with her thumb. "He's in good hands at least." Ming says. "If anyone can help continue his education it'd be the same man who taught you. I'm sure he'll grow up to be a fine martial artist." "I have faith that he will." You say. "The boy has a good heart. If he listens to it then he'll be on the right path." "...If he's half the man he thinks you to be then Master Shifu will have no issue making him into a real Kung Fu master." Tigress says after a short while. You choose to interpret that remark as a compliment. "Then China will be in good hands while we're away." You surmise. "From now on, our focus on on the north. It'll be the last mistake they'll ever make. No doubt Renshu is working on things over on his end but we better make haste. I'm sure he'll appreciate the extra hands." "To the frozen north then!" Xin Lan shouts and they pick up speed. "Not so fast Xin! We should pace ourselves just in case we run into trouble!" Ming shouts as she runs after them. "For once, the rabbit speaks the truth. The sooner we finish this the better." Tigress mutters and dashes past you. Bao clings to you and smiles, her glowing eyes giving off an aura of amusement. "You have a very interesting family Tai Lung." She says. "I look forward to traveling with you." "Speak for yourself. You're part of it." You say with a chuckle and you rush forward to catch up with the others.
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Sat 07 Sep 2024 04:32:08 No. 6099063 Report ---->Somewhere in the frozen north. "You know, if it was anyone else they' would be seen as insane to discard a weapon like that. Better to give it to someone else than waste the resources." The large white bear says as they watch you bury your sword with curiosity. You unsheathe the katana one last time and look over it's fine edge before throwing it into the hole you made. It can rust and rot in there along with everything else it carried with it. "Yes but many people would also think it insane to think I could change." You say as you begin to kick the snow back over it. "Be he does and I'm tired of running away. Tired of being a failure and taking the easy way out." The large bear gives you a confused look. "We did things not because they were the easy way out but because they were the right ones. I'm sure the little one has long since figured it out as well. Now I'm just perpetuating being a failure of an older brother." This doesn't seem to help the man understand you any better but it didn't really matter. This was more for you than it was for anyone else. "The man I used to be is dead and buried and that's where it'll remain. No more killing." "But what about your vow? What about the enemy?" Aleskander asks and your ear twitches as you hear a branch snap behind you. You give the large bear a smirk. "I said no more killing not fighting. Let them come." You say as a group of armed men approach the two of you. They wore bulkier clothing and lighter armor to help with the cold unlike those who had come before them. They were learning. "I'll will the wall to protect those who cannot defend themselves. Let those who want to do harm break themselves upon me." You say as your crack your knuckles. You motion the invaders to come. "You still have time to leave! This does not need to your destiny." You shout. "For those who do not then come! At least try and give me a challenge. I need the practice!">Return to the Valley of Peace Arc. End.
Anonymous
>>6099063 We had to be the cool teachers Xin. There are laws about this!
I wonder if "let them come, They/the evils of the world will break upon me/us" is repeated enough to be a motief by this point or if it is a catch phrase.
Anyway thanks Luo, I and the Lurkers who I shall shamelessly speak for enjoyed that brief calm and quiet. The war in the north is boundless going to be more frantic.
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Sat 07 Sep 2024 05:13:12 No. 6099087 Report Quoted By:
"I HATE THE SAND!" Xin Lan shouts and they leap upon your back to bury their face in your neck. "Big guy! Carry me!" They plead. You sigh and flick them in the back of the head with your tail. The small rabbit lets out a huff and they let go to continue walking miserably through the sand. Whatever books Ming had read did not do the land justice. An ocean of sand with no end and not a tree in sight. In the first few days your mind struggled to come to terms with it. You always half expected trees or a field of grass just over the next hill of sand or more urgently, a river. The thought of running out of something to drink had never crossed your mind and now you found yourself having to ration water with the others. You weren't sure which was worse the thought of never seeing water again or the idea of being stranded on a boat an unlimited source of undrinkable water. If that wasn't bad enough, the lack of landmarks made travel all but impossible. There had been more than one occasion where you thought you were traveling in a straight line only to find out hours later that you had veered horribly off course. But neither were quite as dangerous as the temperature itself. The land seemed hell bent on killing you as it changed it's temperature on a whim. One day it could be below freezing forcing you all to thaw out what little reserves of water you had to drink and by the end of the day you all were struggling to continue on the intense heat of the sun. You recall the something similar the first time you climbed the mountain the Sacred Library was on but that paled in comparison. Regardless of how hot or cold it was, you would all end up losing a bit of water due to evaporation. Your only saving grace was Ming. Every night she would look up at the stars and realign your course. Every day she would somehow manage to cook a decent meal with only the barest amount of water. You all made sure to drink up all the broth to try and preserve as much liquid as you could and yet every morning you all work up refreshed. It was almost supernatural how she managed to keep you all alive. Occasionally, she would make you walk back a bit or in a completely different direction for a day or so but you all continued on without any real complaint because it only meant one thing. An oasis. Every few days you would be led to these small patches of water where you all would restock on water and have an actual day of rest. You would often seen signs of people being here before. A burned out campfire, an article of clothing that was forgotten, or rarely a tool but never the people who they once belonged to. You had no doubt that eventually you would run into one of the natives of this land but you had no idea how the interaction would go.
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Sat 07 Sep 2024 05:14:12 No. 6099089 Report Such a place was your current destination. You had very little water left and if you couldn't find it soon then things were going to get dire. However, Ming hadn't failed to lead you yet so you were all still hopeful that the next rest stop would be nearby. "Hold up." Xin Lan says as they slow to a stop. "Xin, we can't stop to eat just yet. It's going to get hot soon and we can't risk building a fire in that kind of heat." Ming says. "No. I see something." They say in a serious tone and you and Ming come to a halt. The two of you had learned long ago to trust your bunnies' senses. "What is it?" You ask as you walk up next to them as they knelt on the ground. Xin Lan runs their hands on the sand for a moment as they squint their eyes. "Tracks." They say as their fingers trace a faint shape in the sand. To you it simply looked like the natural curves and patterns you've become accustomed in the desert but you strain your eyes a bit more and soon notice that there are many more of the same kind of shape quickly fading away in the sand. Given how quickly your own footprints were swept away by the desert the fact you could see some only meant that they were fairly recent. Unfortunately, you were too far out of your element to tell how old they were. "Tracks? I don't see anything." Ming says as she approaches but nonetheless asks, "How old do you think they are?" "I can't tell." You admit. "But they have to be somewhat recent." "How far are we from the next watering hole?" Xin Lan asks. "We should be coming up to it within the day?" Ming asks as she pulls out a worn scroll. "This map says so at least but I can try and consult a few of the others." "Then it should be right." Xin Lan says. "However, it means that more than likely we're going to run into some people." "They could be the enemy." Tigress says. "Or they could be regular travelers." Ming adds. "They could have information for us.">What do you say? >Continue on. You need the water. Whoever you run into, you'll deal with it. >Tell everyone to hang back. You can afford to wait a day or two. It'd be best to remain unknown for now. Give whoever is ahead of you some time to leave. >Ask if there's somewhere else close by that you can resupply. Maybe you can skip this oasis. >Write in.
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Sat 07 Sep 2024 05:18:56 No. 6099092 Report >>6099072 N-no pressure right?
Anonymous
Quoted By:
>>6099089 >Continue, These travellers might be friendly. But even if they aren't, it's rare to find a wit which can figure out our purpose quickly. >>6099092 Cease using sheep style, Panic deflection!
I think we just had a talk about burdens and the weightlessness they carry.
Storyteller Luo !ZP23o75MkI
Storyteller Luo !ZP23o75MkI ID:yb2/cjax Thu 12 Sep 2024 07:41:52 No. 6102363 Report Quoted By:
"We'll continue onwards. I doubt anyone will know our true intentions just by seeing us. We need the water in any case. It'd be a bad idea to try and stretch our limited supplies in a land we're unfamiliar with. Even if we run into someone we could turn it to our advantage. Let's keep moving before we have to set camp again." You say and continue onwards. As Ming predicted, it wasn't until two days later that you finally came across the next oasis. Water was not the foremost thing in your mind however. Almost as strange as a sea of sand was the fact that said sand was receding. What you had thought to be endless was now giving away to a rocky terrain and one which had signs of vegetation. You still had to wonder, in a land where the heat and cold could rapidly change, could such a thing occur with the terrain as well? Was this stretch of land simply a mere respite before the land became in hospitable once again? Or would this new terrain bring about it's own dangers? Nonetheless, the change was welcome for the moment. "Finally! It's over!" Xin Lan shouts in exhaustion. "I hate the ocean. I hate the desert. Why can't we all just live in the nice forests? Or maybe in a nice hillside?" "You know, my brother in law probably wouldn't like to hear about your disdain towards his realm." Bao muses quietly, prompting Xin Lan to sidle up against you and glare at her. "Oceans are evil." They mutter. "Alright. Let's all calm down." You say. "We'll make camp neat the lake and rest for a bit. The journey has been difficult for all of us." "There's people there." Ming says as she looks out into the horizon as she shields her eyes from the sun. You turned a trained eye towards your destination and sure enough you see a group of people there. You see strange round buildings where people come in and out of but you don't recall such things in your previous stops. Perhaps this was some kind of village? It would make sense given the inhospitable nature of the desert that this place would be far more suitable for a village to be built even if the land seemed rather bad for growing crops.
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Thu 12 Sep 2024 07:42:54 No. 6102364 Report "We won't find out anything from this distance." You say. "Let's go and get some water." You and your friends make your approach to the body of water nearby, albeit more cautiously than you would have liked. As you come closer you note that the buildings seemed to be made of cloth rather than wood or stone. It dawns on you that it would have to be so due to the fact you've not seen any trees and though you were no mason, you did not think there would be much stone suitable for building here either. You see more people coming out of these buildings and begin to look at you making you feel a lot more self conscious than you would have anticipated. There was something about being a stranger here rather than a stranger at home that put you on edge. They were an unknown, their motives and reactions both. You did not know if it was customary to attack on sight or to run. Were they all wary of strangers or was it obvious you didn't belong? Worst of all you had no means of communicating with them to find out. If you spoke that you came in peace would they think you were threatening them? You find yourself tensing up slightly at the thought. You push these ideas out of your head and simply walk to the other end of the body of water. At this distance, you could show that you meant no threat. Still, you could not stop feeling their eyes on you. --- You make camp without any trouble and even make a small fire to keep yourselves warm in the chill. Despite the fact it that it was just starting to be sunset it felt as if you were in the middle of a cold night. Far too cold for a regular Chinese night this time of year at least. By now most of the Mongolians had gone back to their usual routine though every so often you'd note the men of the group stop and keep an eye on you for a moment before continuing. You hear words being spoken in hushed whispers but your mind could make no sense of them and you doubt they could even fathom that you could hear them clearly from this distance. Unfortunately, Ming could not hear them and thus could not translate for you but thankfully their tones seemed more curious and anxious rather than anything that would indicate malice. Its seems they were more afraid of you than you could be of them and there was a tense peace between both groups.>What do you do? >Keep to yourselves. Better to not rock the boat. Just rest up and move on. >Send Ming to go talk to the group. Maybe you can get some information (What do you ask?) >Send Xin in to sneak around and poke about people's things. You could learn something about them from their belongings. >Write in.
Anonymous
Quoted By:
>>6102364 >Send Ming to talk to them, asking if there is any trade settlements to the north? Nearby sources of trade are the hallmarks of civilisation. And information pooling pits.
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Tue 17 Sep 2024 03:41:42 No. 6105492 Report Quoted By:
"Maybe we should let them know we mean them no harm." You say as you turn to Ming. "Could you go talk to them? We might be able to learn more about what's going on." Ming nods and dusts herself off as she stands up. "Sure. Let's hope my studying paid off." She says and starts her walk around the small lake leaving you and the others alone with a pot of soup on the fire. "So...which one of you guys knows how to cook?" Xin Lan asks as they eye the cooking food nervously. You quietly scoot away from the food in response...as does Tigress. Bao looks at the three of you curiously. Xin Lan quietly pokes at the fires with a stick. "I guess...I can watch it." They say and turn to face Bao. "Can't you speak Mongolian? Don't you have some kind of magic?" "Being able to understand all people was one of the many gifts I had to leave behind. As I am now, all I can speak is what I was able to as a girl. So only Chinese." She says pulling her legs close and resting her chin on her knees. "What about you? You aren't Chinese." Xin Lan makes a sour face. "No. I only know Chinese. That's all I ever needed to know. My brother is the one who knew how to speak more than one language." They say and throw their stick into the flames. "Besides, we had no reason to deal with Mongolians. They had nothing to offer us. Anyways, technically the big guy isn't Chinese anymore either." They deflect in an attempt to bring you into the conversation but you don't respond as you were busy looking at Ming. As before, you couldn't understand a word coming out of either group but it seemed like they could understand one another. Ming's speech was heavily accented compared to the others but it seemed to flow smoothly enough. At the very least, you could see that the others were somewhat surprised at the stranger's ability to communicate with them. Despite their caution, their tone and posture seemed to relax a bit. While it seems like their responses were a bit short and perhaps a bit curt, it seemed like it was more out of the aforementioned surprise and caution rather than any animosity. You think that Ming's experience as a leader was helping her approach and speak with strangers. Ming pulls out one of the many maps she copied and proceeds to show it to one of the older residents. They lean closer and seem to be discussing something regarding it but you sense something is off. Trusting your instincts you look past them all and into the horizon to see another group of natives approaching. With honed senses, you squint and note that everyone in the group was armed with sharp curved blades and spears. Some even had bows slung on their backs. They were lightly armored however, which was perfect for traveling in these kinds of conditions. Still, these didn't seems like average travelers. While it was common for people traveling in China to have something to protect themselves, you think that this kind of weaponry was excessive for common travelers.
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Tue 17 Sep 2024 03:42:51 No. 6105493 Report It takes a few minutes before the people across the lake to note the approaching group and they all seem to tense up again. Clearly this was not a welcome sight. They say something and make motions that indicate they want to stop talking to Ming as others timidly either head back to into their homes or stand around. As far as you can tell, they didn't have anyone you'd call a warrior. >What do you do? >Tell the others to get ready. There's probably going to make trouble. >Either go yourself or send one more person to meet up with Ming. Two people should be enough to handle any problems. >Call Ming back. You can try and wait this out. The natives would have a better time handling this than you can. Maybe keeping your head low is the best choice. >Write in.
Anonymous
Quoted By:
>>6105493 >Pull ming back, but have Xin hide close by to observe. Anything shy of a death, we'll just have to let happen to spare them a reprisal attack. But we can always deal with them in vigilantee style later. My thought is that if we let them be, then they will be able to see us or avoid us as they wish, but Xin can act as a safety net for the villagers. Given we have a great issue in letting things just. . go.
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Thu 19 Sep 2024 06:20:58 No. 6106667 Report Quoted By:
"Heads up. I think we have trouble coming." You say. "Xin. Go tell Ming to come back and keep an eye on the situation. Don't intervene unless you suspect they're aiming to kill. We don't know what's going on but we don't want to risk some kind of retribution against these people for our meddling." "Those guys don't seem like they're the type to pull their punches." Xin Lan says as they leap over the fire and run across the surface of the water to get to Ming. By the time they reach the other side, several of the men have gathered outside to meet the new strangers. They weapons they had at their sides could barely be considered a tool for self defense let alone one of war. Perhaps they would be enough to discourage a confrontation for another similar group but you doubt it would help much in the face of the arsenal approaching. You strain your ears to listen as you see Xin Lan pull at Ming's sleeve. "Time to go. Big guy says it's my turn to tag in." "What? No. I'm staying here in case something happens." "Precisely the point. I'm here to keep the peace if our visitors intend to take things to the extreme but other than that we're supposed to keep our heads down." "I can understand them and you can't." "And violence is a universal language. I'll be fine. Now go. Trust me." Ming looks less than pleased but they quickly begin to make their way around the lake. Xin Lan quickly dips behind one of the buildings and vanishes from sight. You suspect you're going to get an earful soon but you'll deal with that later. It doesn't take long before the two groups come face to face with one another. An older man who you suspect to be the elder or leader of this village steps forward to speak. He tries to sound stern but you can see fear in his eyes and body. Words are exchanged between him and one of the armed men but it seems that any threats made fail to have any effect. The armed man's words are forceful and demanding causing the other men of the village to look among themselves and whisper. The village's mayor makes a pleading remark but it doesn't matter what was being said. You knew an extortion when you saw one. The village leader once again attempts to stand his ground perhaps refuting the demands or attempting to haggle but this only serves to anger the other man. The armed man draws himself to full height and in a quick motion drives his fist into the village leader. He falls clutching his face, blood running between his fingers from a broken nose. The assailant barks something out as he wipes his hand clean and draws his blade. He turns to face a younger man, one you think is barely in his twenties, and raises his arm to strike.
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Thu 19 Sep 2024 06:21:59 No. 6106668 Report Quoted By:
The armed man's head snaps to the side as Xin Lan flies through the air to drive their heels into his chin. A knife seemingly materializes in the knee of another armed man, a thin glint of a wire flashing in the light, before the rabbit bounces off it's target and drives another knife into the shoulder of a third man. Everyone else's mind finally seems to catch up as screams begin to fill the air just as the wire attached to the first knife is wrapped around Xin Lan's current target's neck. The man flails as he switches between trying to remove the knife from his shoulder and the wire around his throat. The combination of this and the second man writhing in pain from the knife in his knee causes the wire to tighten. The three remaining men finally draw their weapons and move into attack. One reaches down to grab and nock an arrow but stops, his arm seemingly locked in place. He begins claw at his arm with his good hand and you can see three thin needles protruding from the joints, two in the shoulder and one in the elbow. Ming rushes out from behind one of the buildings with three more between her fingers as her other hand digs around her bag for more. At this point, the strangled man begins to collapse causing Xin Lan to rip the knife free from the second man's knee and loosen the wire to get moving again. They flip through the air and grab the bowman's spear, spinning around and kicking him in the back of the head. The fifth man rushes forward and attempts to run Ming through with their own spear but she manages to step aside just as she draws another set of needles. She plunges one into the spearman's dominant elbow then expertly flicks two more with her off hand into his other elbow and knee. With a solid kick to the gut, the spearman falls down winded and unable to move anything but their right leg. The last man doesn't have enough time to react before he is instantly taken down by one last handful of needles from Ming and having the back of his thighs cut by Xin Lan. In total, the fight took less than a minute and left 6 men wounded. To the villagers, it must have seemed as if their attackers suddenly collapsed. "See? I had this handled." Xin Lan says as their blades seemingly dematerialized with a simple flourish. "Right. Do you even know what happened?" Ming snaps back as she throws a handful of bandages at the bunny. "Make sure they don't bleed out. I'm going to tend to the elder."
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Thu 19 Sep 2024 06:23:00 No. 6106669 Report "My cuts are good! The wounds just need bandages. They won't bleed out." Ming looks across the lake and shoots a glare at you. Xin Lan simply shrugs in response as you look at them. You sigh, and make a note to let Ming know that she might have experience but that fight was still above her skill level. She was going to have to temper her urge to help people with what she could actually do which was admittedly a bit hypocritical given that it was you who was doing the lecturing.>What do you do? >Gather the group and go across the lake. It seems like trouble was just in the cards today. >Give Ming and Xin Lan some space. You don't want to scare the villagers by bringing the rest of your group. >Head over yourself. You think it might be the right time to teach Ming a new lessons. Interrogation techniques. >Write in.
Anonymous
>>6106669 >Head over self. Time to give interrogation lessons. >After we get information from the enemy, we can interrogate the people living here using friendlier mehods Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Mon 23 Sep 2024 03:27:36 No. 6109100 Report Quoted By:
>>6107025 When life hits you, its hits hard. Where were we? Ah right, time for Ming to play the newly invented game of Good Guard and Tai Lung.
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Mon 23 Sep 2024 04:57:29 No. 6109136 Report Quoted By:
"I better go over there and keep an eye on things. Seems like trouble has reached out camp. Tigress your in charge of the food." You say. Tigress begins to protest but by then you had cleared the whole lake in a single bound. The villagers scramble backwards in fear but Ming shouts a few words that you think were meant to reassure them. You're unsure if they helped but at the very least they were keeping to themselves. "How bad is it?" You ask as you kneel necks to the village leader. "It's broken but it'll heal properly if taken care off." Ming says tersely. You place a hand on Ming's shoulder. "You did a good job. Even if you didn't listen to orders." You say gently. "But we're not done yet. Come on." Ming opens her mouth to say something and gives you a confused look, not expecting what you said and not fully comprehending what you mean with the second part. She stands up and follows you. You walk among the bodies and look over them with an professional eye. "They're be ok." Ming says, now slightly nervous like a student before their teacher. "The cuts are deep but not fatal. They might not be able to move as well once they heal but at least they won't ever cause trouble again." You don't say anything for a bit before you walk up to the only one left conscious, the bowmen with his limbs locked up by needles. He attempts to keep a hardened demeanor as the two of you approach, one nervous and the other stoic. The man shouts something at the two of you which you can guess are either more threats or perhaps some obscenities. It didn't matter, in fact, the language barrier served you rather well at this moment. "Now we're going to interrogate him." You say simply and motion to him. "Ask him if there's any more of his group left? If they're bandits, then this is a rather small group. For Chinese standards at least." "Huh?" Ming's confusion deepens as she looks between you and the man. "Ask him. I can't speak the language and if there's more of them that can come attack then we should be aware of it." You repeat simply. "He might tell us." "R-right." Ming turns and says a few words to your captive. As expected, he maintains his stance and simply shouts something back. "He says he'd rather die than betray his brothers and that if we know who they are." She translates.
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Mon 23 Sep 2024 04:58:33 No. 6109137 Report Quoted By:
You cross your arms on purpose. "Well that doesn't really help us. It's unfortunate he's not being cooperative." You say in disappointment. "Well I suppose this is teaching moment. For both you and him." You walk closer to them who, despite his best attempt to maintain composure, begins to attempt to back away with his one good leg. You simply lean down and grab it before dragging him slowly across the ground behind the buildings and out of sight. You then pull him off the ground and hold him upside down. He struggles to move but the strength of our grip and the fact that his other three limbs are locked up makes it impossible. "I'm sure you've read about interrogating someone in your books right? Ask him again, this time tell him that if he doesn't give us the information that I'll break this leg. You don't need to embellish it but it is the only good leg he has left at the moment." "What?" "I'll do it. Usually most people are already battered enough that they know what I'm like when I want to hurt someone. But this man? He got off rather easily for attempting to kill you and Xin." You say nonchalantly. "Really though, it's about making him know that his best interest is to give us what we want. That fact that he doesn't know what we're saying and your confusion only makes it seem that you, the one person who he can communicate with and the only person who can probably get him out of this mess, is losing control of the situation and that is a very bad sign indeed." You jostle the man about as you casually motion to him. "So just ask him again and let him know that I'll hurt him if he doesn't cooperate." Ming gives you a concerned look. She probably wasn't used to speaking about violence in such a casual and off hand manner. That was more of Xin Lan's kind of view. Even so, she does as she's told. The archer looks between you and Ming with an expression that transcended language and nationality. The look of someone who had made a series of very bad life choices recently. You were sure that if he could the man would have been raising his hands in an attempt to seem passive or in a calming manner but his tone of voice was enough to know that he was telling Ming everything he knew. "He says that this is just his group's territory. His boss, and by extension the gang, have been getting paid to make sure that everyone knows to pay taxes for using this oasis." "Taxes? Why not just keep the money? Why do they need to get paid? Ask him. You can skip the threatening. He gets the point." You say. Another round of discussion goes by.
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Mon 23 Sep 2024 04:59:34 No. 6109138 Report Quoted By:
"He says that the gang would need to be crazy to think of standing up to the Khan. Anyone who stands against him is just cut down. Most of the wild clans, that's what the bandits are called here, are extinct err, long gone. Those that remain were swallowed up into the main army. The lucky gangs get to rise up as an official company." Ming explains and quickly adds. "But he doesn't know who he reports too. Only the boss does and even then, they only their payments via messenger." "I see. Did he tell you where we can find the rest of his clan?" You ask and Ming quickly speaks again. It was a bit awkward as you were holding the only functioning limb and Ming pulls out for the man to point out. There was a bit of back and forth as the two worked to find the fight location before Ming finally narrows it down and marks it. "It's right here." She says showing you the map. You nod and drop the man. "Good. I guess we're done here." You say and before the archer breathes a sigh of relief, you drop the nonchalant act and strike him across the face with the full fury of someone who's family was threatened. The man's head snaps to one side and he goes limp as he is knocked out instantly. "I don't know how Xin manages to keep it up." You says letting out a stressed exhale. "TAI LUNG!" Ming shouts in exasperation. "He did as we asked!" "And I kept my word. That was for threatening my family." You say as you lift him over your shoulder. "When he wakes ups, he'll know what true fear was like. Come on. We need to make sure the villagers are ok. Maybe they can explain a bit more about what's going on." "Just as long as you don't go punching everyone." Ming grumbles. "Come on Ming. You know I wouldn't." You say before going quiet for a moment. "I'm afraid if we'll be involved in a war then things will only get worse." You say quietly. "This doesn't need to be us." She counters.
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Mon 23 Sep 2024 05:00:35 No. 6109139 Report "It doesn't need to be you." You correct. "We don't want this to be you. Xin and I are willing to break anyone who wants to harm innocent life. Renshu too. The last thing we want is for you to become the one who picks up after us. But you know how we did things long before we reached the library. If you want to take a more active role in fighting and protecting people then you need to face that truth. We're not like the Five. We're willing to do more than simply subdue an enemy. But we're also not simply going to ignore their attempts to change. Just keep on your own path and we'll make sure you'll follow through. There's no need to be like us." Ming stays quiet and says nothing. You round the corner to find that the remaining bandits had been rounded up and put in line, ready for execution. >What do you do? >Stop the villagers. The bandits had been subdued and there wasn't anymore need to for bloodshed. Killing them now would just be senseless. >Have Ming tell everyone to stop. The bandits might still have some information you all could use. You can all decide to pass judgement once everything was cleared up. >Let the villagers kill the men. You were in a different country and perhaps this was normal. You didn't have a right to judge them for it being a killer yourself. >Write in.
Anonymous
>>6109139 >Have them tell them to stop. They may have information, and besides the point, we need to get a grip of their law system before we start permitting executions out of convenience. If there's no law and this is simply their way of dealing with things, we can try and convince them to show mercy.
if there is a Khan who keeps law, then urge them to send them there.
if there is a Khan who does not care for law at all, or worse would bring retribution for it. . so be it.
Anonymous
>>6109295 Yeah, seconding.
Could swear I voted before...did it vanish into the ether?
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Tue 24 Sep 2024 02:11:34 No. 6109673 Report Quoted By:
>>6109306 It might have. I've had to double post because the captcha was wrong and it just closes itself.
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Tue 24 Sep 2024 03:23:41 No. 6109710 Report Quoted By:
"We need to stop them." You say as the two of you break into a run. Ming begins to shout in mongolian but as an extra precaution you leap forward to stand between the bandits and the villagers. The villages back off in surprise but a few of the more foolhardy ones brandish their weapons at you and presumable shout at you to stand aside. Xin Lan emerges from where ever they go to when they vanish from sight and stands besides you. "Where were you?" "Keeping an eye out. Figured you dragged one of them off to get some info out of them." They say. "Didn't realize you wanted them all alive." "They still might be useful." You point out. "Sounds like you got everything you wanted out of the other one based on what Ming said." They point out. You give them a look. "Ming tell them that these bandits still might have information. They can't just kill them. We should know how their justice system works." You speak up. Ming speaks again but you can feel the tension rise in the air as the responses become more agitated. However, Ming doesn't back down either and responds in turn. Things reach a boiling point when one of the villagers snaps and raises his hand to strike Ming only to find their arm caught in something. A long thin wire is wrapped around the man's wrist and held tightly in Xin Lan's hand. "Hurt her and I'll put you in the ground. This is your only warning. Don't. touch. my. family." They say coolly but their eyes wide in anger. The meaning of Xin Lan's words may have been lost in translation but the killing intent was plain to everyone causing the others to turn around and point their weapons at Xin Lan. "Xin! Don't antagonize them!" Ming says but your friend remains unmoved and they don't break eye contact with the man they have trapped. The situation begins to spiral out of control until a pained voice barks out and order over the shouting. The village leader emerges from a nearby building, face scrunched up in pain, and continues to shout at the men around you motioning angrily at them. He stops next to Ming and speaks a few words to her before motioning for her to go to you. She hurries over to the two of you, "Xin. Let him go. He won't do anything anymore." She pleads. Xin Lan acquiesces and with a flick of a wrist the wire is undone and once again hidden. The village leader continues to shout and wave at the men making them slowly lower their weapons but they remain in position. "He's telling them to stand down." Ming whispers. "The fact that we stepped in to save them is the reason why he says we should be given a chance to be heard. Otherwise, they would have ignored us." The leader, gives one last bark and the men disperse before he motions gruffly at the three of you. He leads you to the building he emerged from, walks through the wood panel that served as a door way, and the three of you make your way in.
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Tue 24 Sep 2024 03:24:52 No. 6109711 Report Quoted By:
Stepping into the building, you note that it's not really a building at all. The whole structure on the inside was simply a thick cloth stretched over wooden beams. The walls were in a criss cross pattern while the ceiling was simply splayed out to hold everything. It was actually easily collapsible if one wanted to move it. You should have expected such a thing from a nomadic people and you almost feel foolish for not thinking this. Your thoughts however are interrupted by the man shouting at you and Ming grabbing your leg by the knee. "Don't step on the doorway. Or let it hit your head. It's disrespectful." She says. "What?" Xin Lan says. "They got rules for entering their house?" "So do we. So just don't touch the door. Ever." She says. "Now be polite. I'm pretty sure we've caused enough trouble here as is. Also keep your back to the door. It'll make it easier for us all right now." Xin Lan grumbles and simply leaps on your back as you have to basically crouch to get in without breaking any of these rules. You didn't understand them but you suppose many things might seem strange to them back home. You find yourself a comfortable spot and let Ming do the talking. The leader takes his seat before you and begins to stoke a fire in the center of the floor. The three of you wait for a moment before the man speaks, his voice still somewhat curt but otherwise pained. He and Ming have a small conversation before it stops and Ming translates for you and Xin Lan to catch up. "He thanks us for saving his clan. He doesn't doubt that one death would have been enough to satisfy the bandits. Not sure if he thinks poorly of them or if they really were going to just slaughter everyone for not paying taxes." "Is that normal?" You ask. "We didn't see anyone on our way here and it doesn't seem reasonable to have patrols wandering the desert looking for people to charge for money." Ming expresses these thoughts to the leader and he makes a scoffing noise before speaking. Ming seems confused and digs into her pockets for a bit before pulling a bit of money to show them man who in return makes a dismissive gesture. "He says that these 'taxes' are a stupid idea. Water is for everyone attempting to claim it as your own is as foolish as claiming that you own the sky or even the sun. Nor does he believe in this new system. If someone wants something then they will have to offer something in return to trade. He also finds the concept of money to be a waste of time. There's no value in coins if it can't feed his people or keep them warm." She explains. "What they don't have money either?" Xin Lan blurts out. "I guess not. They seem to only trade in goods that help with day to day living. Food, water, clothes, stuff like that. Money doesn't really help with that and it's extra useless if no one else will take it." Ming admits.
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Tue 24 Sep 2024 03:25:53 No. 6109713 Report "I guess we really are out of depth." You admit. "If he's willing to teach us a bit more. We'd could use this opportunity to get a better lay on the land. Maybe even convince him that we're just trying to help." Another exchange of words is had but you get the sense that the man finds something amusing in the conversation. "He says that he wishes his sons were as eager to learn as we are. So long as we don't beg for food or attempt to cheat him, he's willing to humor our questions. It's the least he can do for us saving him and he does not like to owe debts. They are bad for the soul." "Information is more than enough compensation." You say. >What do you ask about? >Write in.
Anonymous
>>6109713 Just in no paticular order.
Do you have a map of the region we can look over? or can you update our maps?
Who are the tribes round here, who is your tribe, do you know a man named Alaskander?
Who is the Khan, what is his tribe, do you know of a clan of [wolves I think? or cats] Named Kexin? arrived generations past as exiles. Where the Khan and their clan makes rest, Do they know the crow witches? And if so where do they reside? How is law and order conducted here?
I know I'm gonna miss more. . .
>A forginers from the south common? . . . Do you know of any Snow leopard clans and their wareabouts? I don't know if the big guy still has enough bandwidth to care about a possible connection to his ancestors, but it'd still be nice to know.
>What does his people call the great dragons, the lords of the elements? Sorry Luo, gotta make you worldbuild.
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Wed 25 Sep 2024 01:42:08 No. 6110336 Report Quoted By:
>>6110251 >I don't know if the big guy still has enough bandwidth to care about a possible connection to his ancestors, but it'd still be nice to know. Probably not in a direct sense, but given that one of the first encounters against the Mongolians involved another snow leopard, it would be prudent to ask about it just in case it has a connection or if it's just a coincidence.
>Who is the Khan, what is his tribe, do you know of a clan of [wolves I think? or cats] Named Kexin? Tigers if I recall correctly.
>Sorry Luo, gotta make you worldbuild. Then I guess I better crack open the books and browse a bit of mongolian lore to adapt to this surprisingly expanding setting. I'll give a bit more time incase others want to pose their own questions as well.
Anonymous
Quoted By:
>>6109713 Have they seen a striped rabbit? Or a large white bear?
How do they reliably navigate Mongolia?
Do they have a method for finding water in these lands of scarcity?
Do they have Martial Arts here?
What is one of the most popular dishes around here, and how is it made?
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:R4Loir39 Mon 30 Sep 2024 19:07:58 No. 6113987 Report Quoted By:
My apologies for the radio silence gents, as much as I wish it was due to intensive research and reading it's more attributed with a few hiccups in life I need to deal with. Fortunately, There will be an update to the quest today. Lots of questions to answer and confuse our local bun with. Also Tigress has been watching the pot intently...mostly because she's like her fluffy brother. Doesn't know how to cook. Bao will step in to keep the food edible though.
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Tue 01 Oct 2024 04:48:56 No. 6114301 Report Quoted By:
Your mind swirls with questions. Perhaps it was your old age or perhaps it had been all your travels with your companions that had opened your eyes but you feel you could spend years just talking about these new lands but the mission had to take priority. Still, you feel a little indulgence couldn't hurt. After all, if you were to travel these lands, it would be prudent to learn how to blend in and function in society. Whatever sort of society they had. "Ask him how his people travels. Do they have a map we can copy?" You ask as Ming translates. "He says his people have traveled these lands since his forefathers' fathers. The route was taught to him by his father as his father was taught by the man before him. They don't use maps but he thinks he might be able to double check ours." Ming translates as she pulls out her map. The two pour over it for several minutes as you and Xin Lan sit around awkwardly being unable to contribute. The pause in conversation is long enough for them to get bored and climb upon your back to rest their chin on your head. Once they were done, your host waits patiently for the next question. You note that there were several small notes and markings on the map that you assume Ming was going to have to clean up and pour through. "What is a Khan?" You ask. "Is it some kind of ruler? Like an Emperor? Does every clan have one?" The man's brow furrows at the translation and he seems to think for a moment. "It's a title. He supposes it could be something like what we call an Emperor but it's much more so." Ming says before the man speaks once more. "He asks if we know of Tengri and his children." "Of course we don't." Xin Lan says. "No but it's possible that the people have different names for the Great Dragons. Ask him to explain it to us." You say. "Tengri is everything. The beginning and the end and yet without end. He's not a God in the usual sense it seems. More like existence itself. From him it is where life comes from and from his children come people. Among them is Mergen, father of wisdom and abundance, Kyzaghan god of war and warriors, and Mother Earth who's name has long been forgotten but who's embrace all beings will share." "That's...a lot." Xin Lan says as they pat your ears while listening. "What's this have to do with Khans though?"
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Tue 01 Oct 2024 04:50:15 No. 6114303 Report Quoted By:
"The title of Khan is not simply what one calls their leader. It is a declaration, a Challenge. That one is either a direct descendant of one of Tengri's children or is wise and strong enough to unite all the clans and rule as an enlightened being. To give oneself the name of Khan is to declare that they are above all and only they are fit to rule. To some tribes, this is heretical. To claim they are among the gods. To others, it is a declaration of war. A call to enslave their people and rule over them. The clans have been around since the great scattering and have survived countless wars and strife. Not once in these hundreds of generations has anyone come close to embodying what the stories describe as a Khan." "Those men mentioned a Khan. What of the other clans? Do you know of them?" You blurt out and feel your face redden as both Ming and your Host look at you attempting to comprehend what you said in their own way but Ming translates for you. "There are many clans out in this land. Tungalag, who mostly live near the rivers, the Gegeen, who are known for their shamans and wisdom, the Bolormaa known for being lead by women, the Jargaal who reside in the trees to the north. There are many others but far too small and numerous to name. These are just some of the biggest ones." "Where can we find them? We're looking to find our way to the north." You ask. "I do not know. My father once told of great meetings between the clans in sacred lands where they would trade and share stories. Often times Clans would discuss issues or arrange weddings to establish peace. I was told that these lands were where the Gods could walk among us and some clans even believed that this is where Ulukayın the Tree of Life was planted. But had been many years since even my father's grandfather had been to one and now they are nothing more than legend. It is rare that clans meet one another as they traverse the land and life. Only the Jargaal are often met as they provide us with the wood to build our homes and repair our tools. But they too wander the lands themselves and never staying in one place for too long. We are not set to meet them for another year or so." "Do you think one of these clans have someone claiming to be a Khan?" You ask but the man shakes his head.
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Tue 01 Oct 2024 04:51:15 No. 6114304 Report "I do not know. In our rare dealings with other Clans, we have heard stories of the smaller tribes vanishing and of trouble brewing near the north. Others claim they have been accosted by groups claiming to be part of this Khan's clan. They claim that these men never leave their lands and choose to live without migrating. I will admit that we are crossing paths more and more with other clans as they northern most ones move farther south to avoid them. Perhaps it's simply fervor or desperation that many clans are now claiming to house a Khan. I find it impossible to believe that a single clan can carry enough might to control the whole country. Those men outside must merely be another group attempting capitalize on the fear. Clanless and without morals.">What do you say? (For the next few posts, choices will come from the questions posted just to be sure to answer them all) >Ask perhaps this Khan is not a native but a foreigner. It could be the Kexin attempting to gain some power. Also ask how often strangers come into these lands. >Suggest that perhaps it's not someone from the south but from the far north. Could it be a group from Alexsander's nation? >Ask your host if he has heard stories of a strange fighting style. Kung Fu or martial arts might not be common here. If you can find someone who practices it then it must mean they are knowledgeable in Chinese culture. It could be a lead either to Renshu or whoever is behind this all. >Ask how clans keep the peace if there is no unifying body. Does each clan have their own laws?
Anonymous
Quoted By:
>>6114304 >Suggest that it is someone from the far north. Now remember, the Kevin have been gone for 200ish years or so. Good odds they are native as anyone else, if still very evidently Chinese by nationality and the local culture, assuming a life expectancy of 40 years.
Good shout with the martial arts one though.
>Do you have any. . Style of unarmed fighting among your peoples? Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Sun 06 Oct 2024 06:54:27 No. 6117675 Report Quoted By:
"Could it be someone from the north? Were everything is cold and snow?" You ask. The clan leader ponders this after the translation. "I do not know. My own clan has not had dealings with them nor have we heard of these northerners besides the few stories we have heard from the other clans. It is rumored that some of the smaller ones venture north to do trade with these mysterious people but that would be something you would have to ask them. Personally I do not think it is even possible to live so far north. If even half the stories about that place are true then I suppose it would drive anyone insane enough to attempt and conquer our lands. But I still do not believe it. While the stories say that a Khan will come and unite all the clans under one leader, I cannot see the other clans following the leadership of a foreigner or anyone who does not know of our ways. If such a person would resort to force to try and dominate them, I would hope they fight hard against this imposter." The clan head pauses and seems to ruminate on this idea. Though you cannot read his thoughts, his face shows that he doesn't not like whatever revelation he comes too. "No. I can only hope that this so called Khan is merely an overly ambitious clan attempting to take over." "I'm sorry, and I mean no offense, but I don't see the difference. Both would result in your people's being oppressed and ruled through force and fear. It would be best to stop this person in either case, no?" You ask. "No. As outsiders, I don't think you would understand. If this person is one of our own and though we may fight and some of us die. I can rest easy knowing that at the very least our people and our customs may be preserved. If it is an outsider, then our traditions stand no chance." The leader says. "Our way of living has been carefully passed down over generations. Since the shattering, our father's and their fathers have done everything in their power to preserve our way of life and history. To have it all taken away by some stranger..." "It'd be as if you have never existed. We know full well what it is to lose something like that. All too clearly." You say. "But a slight detour, do you have any...particular style of unarmed fighting among your people?" You ask. Ming and Xin Lan both turn to give you a look. You ignore them and motion for Ming to translate.
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Sun 06 Oct 2024 06:55:27 No. 6117676 Report Quoted By:
"The boys enjoy a good wrestle from time to time." The man says with a confused tone. "Some of the more bolder ones like to try and use them in a real fight but overall we prefer to use our weapons. We can't risk losing what few of our clan we have to flights of fancy." "What this style called? What does it involve?" You press. "It is simply wrestling. I'm not sure what you mean. Where you try and pin your opponent to the ground or lock their limbs to keep them from moving. Some of the boy's rites of passage involve it going until the opponent is forced to surrender but most of it is simply until one is knocked to the ground." "They call it Bökh." Ming explains to you in Chinese. "Sounds like they don't really have anything we have in China." "Oh..." You say slightly disappointed. "Well can you ask him what favored weapons they have then?" "Bows are the most popular weapon. The best way to win a fight is to not engage at all and the best way to do that is to win from afar. However, the sword and spear will do nicely should the enemy get too close. One to keep the distance and the other for a more general purpose weapon." "I see. Well, I ask this because we are here partially looking for someone from down south. They were banished here many generations ago. Perhaps they might have taught some people how to fight unarmed. Have you ever heard of a story like that? They were a family of tigers named the Kexin." "No. I have never heard that name before. I don't know anything about other clans learning how to fight bare handed but if they missed ours they would have eventually found another...or they would have surely died." "I'm guessing strangers aren't too common then." You assume. "The people here are wary of strangers. More importantly, I doubt we have much to offer them. If this family of yours did manage to survive out here then one of the bigger clans must have taken them in. Perhaps if you ask up north you might find some answers." "I see. More importantly..." You start and pluck Xin Lan off your back and hold them out. "Have you seen a stripped rabbit? They have grey fur with black stripes and kind of look like this one here only about the size of her. He was traveling with a large white bear." You say pointing to Xin Lan and Ming. "What do you mean by 'this one'? I have a name!" Xin Lan shouts grumpily. "And I'm clearly much more handsome." The man looks towards Ming for help as he clearly does not understand the situation unfolding before him. Ming sheepishly translates your description and perhaps helps with further details.
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Sun 06 Oct 2024 06:56:28 No. 6117677 Report "I have not seen this...creature that you speak of." He says. "But I have heard tales of the white bear. The other clans have spoken on him. Saying that he tears men in half before eating them and leaving none alive. Entire clans have vanished because of his appetite and that sighting him is signs of ill omen. Staying in the region that he is spotted is surely asking for death but the creature roams and vanishes after it's meal. If the person you are looking for is with him then I'm sorry but he is already dead. Only those that have avoided him have lived to tell the tale. Those that did not...all that were found were the remains of their camp. I am sorry for your loss and sorry to deliver this ill news after traveling so far.">What do you say? >Say nothing and change the subject. Ask what will become of the men outside. >Say that Renshu can take care of himself and you will not lose hope. It's best to not reveal everything you know right now. >Explain that the white bear is not what he thinks. He too is fighting for his own people and it seems someone is manipulating things behind the scenes. >Write in.
Anonymous
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>>6117677 >Explain that the white bear is not what he thinks. He too is fighting for his own people and it seems someone is manipulating things behind the scenes. He doesn't deserve that reputation. Even if it may be true, he was forced to do such acts. Though...given his nature, I suspect that Alexander may have been destroying camps but letting the inhabitants run away and go into hiding. Only maiming those who refused to do as much?
Anonymous
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>>6117677 >This white bear is named Aleksander, and by our knowledge is a gentle man forced by the 'Khan' to kill and terrorise on threat of his own people being butchered. >Our friend broke him free of his slavery, you ought have no more trouble from him. Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Wed 09 Oct 2024 04:33:44 No. 6119469 Report Quoted By:
"We know of this man." You say. "Though I cannot deny what he has done I have reason to believe he did not do so willingly. From what we have gathered, this Khan may have been manipulating us all. From what we know, the bear had been forced to do all this under the threat of having his own people killed. It was only recently that his was set free by our friend. That is why we search for them. Perhaps they have more information on what is going on. He shouldn't cause anyone trouble anymore." The man shakes his head, unconvinced. "I am not so sure of that. From what we have heard this is more beast than man and cannot be reasoned with. I'm not sure where you heard your information but perhaps they were mistaken. I will not stop you from your search but I urge you to rethink your path." He says. You open your mouth to argue but Ming places a hand on your arm. It would be best if you withheld that you had heard of this from beyond the grave. You know from experience that turning the people's opinion around would be a lot harder than simply advocating for the man. You knew this from experience. Nonetheless, you felt the need to put the first foot forward. "Thank you for your concern but we won't give up hope that our friend is still alive." You say. "If he is, then perhaps the rest is true also. If so, we're not one to deny someone a second chance if they truly wish to change. If we're wrong, then we'll do all we can to stop him and protect everyone." Your host strokes his chin and winces slightly as he somehow irritates his broken nose. "You are all quite strange people." He says. "I cannot see if you're intentions are true or you are all simply foolish. I suppose such is the way of strangers." "What's he on about? Doesn't this place have heroes? What do they just let anyone do whatever they want around here?" Xin Lan asks as they wiggle out of your grip. Ming just shrugs. "That is a good question. Ask him about that. It would be good to know how the law is handled around here." You say. "Just...you know. Filter it a bit." "Heroes? Such things are only for children's tales. Stories to inspire and to teach lessons. Such people do not really exist. As I said, our tribe is small and we cannot afford to indulge in such flights of fancy." The man says. "Then how is the law upheld? Or how do you punish those who do wrong?" You ask again.
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2
Storyteller Luo !!e08cz8ZGDS2 ID:yb2/cjax Wed 09 Oct 2024 04:34:45 No. 6119471 Report "It depends on the severity of the crime. We maybe strict but we are not monsters. Children and even some adults may make mistakes from time to time. Small slights are often met with a simple reparation or apology. For bigger trespasses, perhaps a reduction on food or community service. Sometimes prayer to the gods for forgiveness. For the greatest of threats against the clan, exile would be our first choice. Perhaps the gods will offer them a second chance and they maybe taken in by another clan. If the crime is too severe for that then only death is a suitable punishment. We will not abide people who refuse to mend their ways nor can we afford to drag them along and feed them in hopes of some miraculous change." He explains. "Are such views the same in all clans?" "No. The bigger clans have been here longer than any other and thus have bigger claims to the land and roaming. They are also wiser as a result. They may be more lenient or perhaps have their own punishments due to having more resources. For us smaller bands, we do not have such a luxury." "Then the ones outside, the ones you attacked you, will you kill them?" You ask. "It is the only option. Let them live and they may try again. Next time we may not have the chance to even see them. Nor will the others agree to keep them around.">What do you say? >Write in.
Anonymous
>>6119471 "I can understand you lack the luxury of feeding and housing criminals such as them. What if they were to work off their crimes? This is sometimes done in my land - criminals are restrained so they cannot run, and made to work the land or care for animals under close watch. Sometimes they craft, or teach if they're proficient with something that can be difficult to learn elsewhere. They are not free to attack you or report back to their band, and they contribute to the good of your clan. Perhaps in time they will learn the error of their ways, as well."
They mentioned community service, but I think they might just need to expand on it to get the solution they need, to be honest. Prisoners that work feed themselves, essentially. They're no longer a drain on the clan.
Anonymous
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>>6119551 I do also recommend this.
Failing that. . . Well, I'd make a hesitant suggestion. cutting off like, two fingers of their dominant hands.
They won't hold a sword again, and their issue is. . . very intensely mitigated.
It's my best suggestion, even if it is almost certain death