>>28004577

> Previous Thread: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive/27974973/

>>28004577
Holy crap, it's running again? Nice!

> Offer the loot from the Annam campaign.
I was prepared to fork it over to the pirates in exchange for their assisstance, so offering them the loot is no big deal, maybe we could go halfsies on it?

>Meanwhile, as you talk, the butler ducks in to report that Guo Xuyou is now at the antechamber. He can sit for a while, but you probably ought to see him soon...

We should wrap it up soonish, maybe make him wait 10 minutes, we don't want to seem overly desperate, but at the same time, we don't want him waiting around too long.

>>28004693
>We should wrap it up soonish, maybe make him wait 10 minutes, we don't want to seem overly desperate, but at the same time, we don't want him waiting around too long.
This is important. You cannot afford to seem needy, especially when you are.

>>28004577
>> Offer your wealth, and that of Wenxun's. That should do.

>>28004693

Agree with both of those.

Remind those ministers that if they want a good return on their investment, they better let us have supplies, ships etc. so we can raid them properly.

>>28004771
>>28004754
>>28004735
>>28004693

You nod, absently, as the butler ducks out. Wait, wait, wait. There's an idea in there. You had originally thought to use pirates, and to entice them with a share of the loot you get from Annam. But then Wenxun said there would be no resort to that.

'Wenxun. We may not have any money now. But how about in the future? Why don't we entice some officials, with the prospect of loot from Annam?'

His face lights up as he considers that idea. 'That... that would be *brilliant*.'

'After all, this also means that if they wish to receive a good and rich gift, then they ought to back our expedition to the hilt - with supplies and the like.'

'Yes. Yes that would make sense.' Wenxun nods. 'Well, as you know, it seems some of the Ministers are in Wenxian's camp, but perhaps some of them would be amenable to change their minds in the last minute. Should I approach them?'

> Let Wenxun approach the Ministers. His princely position will add weight to his words.
> Do the approach yourself, even if it's more work. Wenxun exposing himself might not be a good idea.

> cont'd.

>>28004832
Do the approach yourself, even if it's more work. Wenxun exposing himself might not be a good idea.

>>28004832
>> Do the approach yourself, even if it's more work. Wenxun exposing himself might not be a good idea.

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>>28004832

After discussing the details a little more, and trying to get around some potential problems - after all, the King might send someone along to count and measure the loot for his own coffers or the state fisc - Wenxun finally summons Guo Xuyou in. The door opens, and a man with a dark blue headcloth - a sign of naval service in some parts - strides over the threshold and gets on his knees.

'Guo Xuyou, humble servant and general, greets His Highness.' Then, glancing up before looking back down again, 'and Lord Meng as well.'

'Rise, please.' Meanwhile, Wenxun gets up to bring and unroll a map on the table - an excellent quality map, though probably dating from the days when Annam was still a part of Southern Han. Well, the coast wouldn't change too much in 20 years. 'We summoned you here in order to discuss something you might help us with...'

You watch Guo Xuyou as Wenxun talks, occasionally pointing to you so you can give some details about your plan. It's not a very detailed plan, anyway; that part of the coast is not familiar to you, as opposed to the Pearl River's mouth and the islands around it. He listens, and every now and then looks as if he is about to say something; but to his credit, he waits until both of you are done.

'What do you think?'

'In truth, highness, my lord, I think this plan might work, militarily.' But before you can say anything, he continues. 'But I somehow don't see His Majesty being persuaded of the plan.'

> What do/say, Hongyang? Wenxun is visibly surprised.

>>28004925
"Why not?"

>>28004925
What makes you say that?

>>28005046
>>28004959
>>28004890
>>28004879

> You'll approach the ministers yourself.
> Wenxun says he'll take care of securing merchant support, then.

'Why not?' You ask, and Guo Xuyou looks a little awkward before speaking up.

'Well... Chen Tingji is still alive, and still in charge of the Annam navy.'

To say that is almost criminal already, implying that the King was somehow afraid of a naval commander from some second-rate state. Except Annam's navy is not second rate, and the main reason for that is Chen Tingji. Not knowing a lot about him, you ask, and Guo gives an account that explains quite a lot.

At the Battle of the Wisteria River, where the Southern Han fleets were so totally defeated that you've only now returned to having a fleet as large as 15 years ago, Chen Tingji - a Chinese emigre in Annam - was the person who came up with a devious stratagem of attaching iron spikes to the shallow riverbed. As the vanguard commander, he then lured the Han fleet into the spikes, where they were trapped and incinerated; Wenxun's oldest brother was killed in that battle as well.

'His Majesty said it best later, when Chen refused to participate in a counterattack and the Annamese fleet was broken. He said, 'even if the southern bandits have a hundred fortress-ships and 300 ram-ships, why need I fear them, so long as they don't have Chen Tingji?'

'Heavens,' Wenxun says. You knew about his being in charge - but not that *he* was the victor so long ago.

> Perhaps another plan should be considered...
> The greater the odds, the greater the glory!
> Other.

> Roll d100, meanwhile.

Rolled 58

>>28005092
>> The greater the odds, the greater the glory!

Rolled 29

>>28005092
>The greater the odds, the greater the glory!
Mention the Annam king has been slacking in his defensive duties, grown complacent with us and no longer thinks he needs to maintain his fleets like he used to. Hopefully a Chen Tingji deprived of resources will make for an easier opponent.

Rolled 33

>>28005092

Glory!

Rolled 33

>>28005092

what are we rolling for?

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>>28005160
>>28005138
>>28005137

> Doubles of the same roll! That's... rare.

You glance at Wenxun, and are sure he has pretty much the same thought, before turning to Guo Xuyou. He seems to be expecting that his little fright-speech has thrown you. Hah, man doesn't know anything!

'That's excellent, then. That's even more excellent,' you say.

'W... what, Lord Meng?'

'Two things,' Wenxun takes over. 'First, it shows you've already thought through this scenario should it come up. And secondly, haven't you ever heard of that saying? A man can hunt a hundred rabbits, but more renowned is a slayer of a single tiger.'

'The fiercer the opposition, the greater the glory!' You scan Guo's expression while saying that, and to your relief what shines through is not fear but eagerness.

'It's good to know that His Highness is such a bold man. And Lord Meng, as well!' Then, clearing his throat, 'and now, if I may lay out some of my conditions if I am to participate in this expedition. I'm willing to lead the 800 marines of my personal command with you.'

6,000 men, then. Score!

'But,' Guo says, 'I must be given at least the rank of a Naval Commander. If not a Vice-admiral, or an Inspector. Five years as a Vice-Inspector, and I must admit I am disheartened sometimes.'

There's something, you sense, that he's not telling you. It is almost as if his current offer, pricey as it is, might only be a probe. Or it might not be... Wenxun sits back and, getting the message, Guo gets up and takes his leave for the moment.

'An inspector appointment,' Wenxun mutters. 'It might make Father even less inclined to approve the plan at all. But then Guo seems to be an asset...'

> Let's perhaps look for someone else. You have your Hainan contacts, Wenxun, don't you?
> We should give Guo what he asks. He is indeed an asset, and we need the men and ships.
> Not just what Guo asks - *more*. There's something he's holding out on...
> Other.

Rolled 14

>>28005092
> The greater the odds, the greater the glory!
Go big or go home

>>28005307
>> Not just what Guo asks - *more*. There's something he's holding out on...

Rolled 70

>>28005307
We should at least inquire about what potential Hainan contact he might know of, before the other guy returns

I am mildly intrigued by what he may be holding back though...

>>28005137
>>28005138
>>28005372
Hmm, this is actually making me kind of leery, rather than trying to engage the enemy on their terms, if we are to fight a naval battle, we should try to drawn them into our waters, as there will less of a chance for ambush or traps.

Maybe we could start the battle in a straightforward manner with some decoy ships, and then feign retreat into our own waters, and lay an ambush on them with our real fleet?

>>28005307
>> Not just what Guo asks - *more*. There's something he's holding out on...

>>28005469
Perhaps we could conduct stealth and sabotage operations to soften them up?

Something's cropped up. Give me a bit.

>>28005452
>>28005460
>>28005948

'What do you think then, Hongyang?'

'What sort of generals were you talking about, actually, whom you met in Hainan? Would it be possible for them to cobble together a fleet, along with the merchants loaning us their ships?'

'Unfortunately I don't think it would be an entire fleet,' Wenxun says. 'The ships stationed around Hainan are mostly small, fast boats - light junks, trebuchet ships. They only have 15 ram-ships around the entire eastern coast. If we want some heavy ships, and we will need them, then Guo is perhaps best equipped with the authority to get them.'

You nod. Clearly Wenxun shares your concern about Wang Tong, the cautious chief commander of your own naval forces. 'Well, if we can't do without Guo, then I say we should offer him even more than what he's asking. Perhaps a share in the loot, as well?'

'We're spreading ourselves a little thin, Hongyang,' he says. But he doesn't have another suggestion.

> cont'd.

>>28006516

When Guo returns, you let Wenxun tell him about the offer, whereupon he perks up. 'I... a share of the loot, for me, sir?'

'It's just to make sure you fight hard for your loot,' the Second Prince replies with a small smile. You are all too aware that what you are proposing here is somewhat dubious, from a legal standpoint - the loot captured on campaign belongs, by right, to the King. However you decide to do this, Wenxun is going to be somewhat exposed; but he seems not to be concerned by that at all.

The offer of more turns out to be a good gamble. Guo nods, thanks, smiles and thanks again; and then he says he will make an offer of a major gift. 'And what is that?'

-----

An hour later, the food begins to arrive in the study where you've all decided to stay - except this time there are four of you. The new member is a naval officer, small and dark-skinned, with clearly Annamese features.

'This is Tho,' Guo says, gesturing to him as he looks at the food, wisely waiting for all of you to start first. 'He defected from Annam just two months ago, rowed a sampan in the open sea for three days before we found him.'

'They killed my parents because my brother refused to sell them land,' Tho says, in trembling and ineloquent Chinese.

'You can ask him about what you'd like, sirs, or perhaps he could come along on the expedition...'

> Ask about the Annamese Navy. (Write in your detailed questions).
> Ask about the commander, Chen Tingji. (Wait, isn't he Annamese? Why is his name so Chinese?)
> Ask about the lay of the sea, and possible attack points.
> Ask about something else. (Write-in.)
> Other.

>>28006612
>> Ask about the commander, Chen Tingji. (Wait, isn't he Annamese? Why is his name so Chinese?)

>>28006150
>>28005469

We can discuss these things later.

I think the plan must be approved first.

>>28006612
> Ask about the Annamese Navy. (Write in your detailed questions).

So, what can you tell us of the current state of the Annamese navy? How is Chen Tingji ? Are they ready for an attack on the coast?

>>28006853
>>28006651

> Answering the question in common first.

The first question you need to ask is pretty obvious. An army is really only as good as its commander; and in Chen Tingji, if you're going the naval route, you will be facing a very good commander indeed.

'So... Admiral Chen, who leads the Annamese fleet. Tell us more about him.'

'He is one commander good in the navy! Admiral Tran. He cares for soldiers.' Tho nods, then picks at his rice with the chopsticks before continuing. Meanwhile Guo is stuffing his face now. 'But, he is not trusted. The King will not trust him now.'

'What- but why? And then why is he still the commander of the navy, then?'

Tho sighs. 'Admiral Tran is Chinese. The King won't trust him. And once, during a battle, he say no when asked to fight. Because the fight was stupid! Admiral Tran saved his navy, but the King thinks he fears us. Or maybe he likes us.'

You notice how he uses 'us', the poor defector. But huh. If the admiral is not trusted by the King, then...

> What would you like to do/say/ask? You can pick the questions from >>28006612, again, or write in.

>>28006952
I'd like to ask about the current state of the Annamese navy, numbers readyness, morale and such.

Sounds like we will be able to exploit this and possibly even get Chen Ji on our side if we plot carefully.

>>28006952
> Ask about the lay of the sea, and possible attack points.

>>28006952
Ask him about the state of the navy.

>>28007134
>>28007003
>>28006853
>>28007029

A skilled commander who does not get the trust he deserves - that definitely sounds like a situation you can exploit. As Sunzi said, it's winning without fighting that is the pinnacle of skill.

When you ask some more questions about the Annamese Navy, Tho appears to be on rather more shaky ground. It seems he is not high ranking enough to have an overview of things like the numbers of the fleet, though he says there are about 150 ram-ships in all.

150! You probably will be fine if you mustered a fifth of that number. But then Tho goes on to give a more optimistic picture - well, for you anyway.

'The King, after he ruled for 10 and 15 years, he does not care about defence anymore. He thinks we are easy to beat, he thinks we cannot fight them and dare not. So, a lot of the money that should be for the navy, the King has put it away into palaces. He built two palaces in three years. And people can see, in the navy. So the morale is not high.'

'Well, what about the situation of... supply? Food, arrows, equipment?' Wenxun wipes his fingers on a gently-scented wet cloth by his lacquered tray.

'No, no good at all. No good at all!' Tho shakes his head. 'I had no pay for five months.'

'Five *months*? How did you survive then?'

'Admiral Tran! He controls the whole navy, so he sends ships to attack places. Sometimes us, over in Leizhou. Sometimes he attacks south, at Champa and Chenla. The attacks are just to get grain, oil and silver, so the navy can survive. But because he is very skilled, the navy survives.'

... This... could be interesting. Certainly it would go a long way towards persuasion!

> Roll d100 for Tho's knowledge.

> Supper is almost over; the tea is being brought out now, and your tea is brought to you - this is a joke, right - by one of Wenxun's maids whom you know has something for you.
> End supper and begin drawing up a to-do list? The expedition is in days.
> Ask something more.
> Other.

Rolled 9

>>28007239
>> Supper is almost over; the tea is being brought out now, and your tea is brought to you - this is a joke, right - by one of Wenxun's maids whom you know has something for you.

Rolled 12

>>28007239

Rolled 31

>>28007239
Rollan

>>28007278

Just to note: that is a situational greentext, not a course of action. There's nothing actionable in that.

Rolled 29

>>28007239

Rolled 81

>>28007239

Is it just me or are our rolls really shit today?

>>28007239
Ask about what enemies the Annamese have made

Rolled 80

>>28007239
>End supper and begin drawing up a to-do list? The expedition is in days.
So we need to go visit the ministers, buy supplies enough to feed and water 6000+ men, probably best to have some extra to account for spoilage and the like. Then we need to meet with those merchants that we wanted to meet with... anything else?

Rolled 24

>>28007316
Most have been terrible

>>28007239
> End supper and begin drawing up a to-do list? The expedition is in days.
We have enough information here.

This is really good. If those informations are accurate, we could win without a battle.

Rolled 26

>>28007473
oh, my roll

Wait so their commander of the navy is treated like crap because he's chinese, and they've been slashing his funding?

This sounds like the perfect recipe to convince him to defect. If we could get him to defect to the prince, we could gain a major ally in the bid for the throne, if nothing else, at least *we* can appreciate his skill.

> 81: success!

'So... besides us, have they made enemies of any other states? Are they fighting other countries right now?'

'Not really,' Tho replies, which is a shame. 'They raid Champa and Chenla. But those kingdoms have no ships, no navy, there's nothing they can do about Annam.'

That might explain why there have been relatively few naval attacks in the last year, then. It was almost like the Annamese decided to shift their focus to the land instead. Your final question, however, is the one that meets with the most optimistic answer.

'If we are to attack Annam by sea, which would be the best place to attack first? We do not want to enter Dragonfall Bay, or to deal with the Wisteria Rivermouth...'

'There is one place which will be perfect, sir,' Tho says with immediate and sudden determination. 'It's Phoenix Island.'

All of you simultaneously look down at the map, and then Tho points it out - a squarish block at the south end of a large group of islands. 'Their King wanted to build a fortress there, but they built the walls, then gave up. There is now an empty fort on the island.'

Sounds like a good place to direct operations. It's only about 50 li from Dragonfall Bay as well - both short enough for quick attacks, and long enough to receive ample warning of an ambush...

> Right. So, what do now?
> I'll draw up a list of tasks that need to be done over the next two days, in the next post.

> But for now:
> Timeskip, go home and sleep.
> Stay around and talk to Wenxun.
> Go and talk to Xin'nu, the maid.
> Other.

>>28007550
>> Go and talk to Xin'nu, the maid.

>>28007550
we should stop by Champa and Chenla with some empty ships see how many volunteers we can get.

would be better than pirates, and cheaper too

Rolled 48

>>28007550
>> Go and talk to Xin'nu, the maid.
WHo knows? She may have something interesting to say or may have heard something.

Maid and butlers often have pretty juicy bits of informations.

Could be a spy or an assassin too.

>>28007550

> Ministers

You will be meeting the ministers tomorrow, or attempting to secure such a meeting. Indeed, since the best time to meet all the ministers is when they are in attendance with His Majesty, you might have to talk to both the King and his men simultaneously.

If you talk to them simultaneously, though, that would also mean getting the King to approve your war plan. Best be ready for some debating action.

> Merchants

Wenxun will take care of that; while he is best not exposed to official intrigue, the merchants will clamber over each other to try and please the Prince. He can leverage that.

> Supplies

Your food and water needs can be catered to out of royal resources, this being a royal expedition, as well as the merchants clambering over each other. (Ugh, the image.) You might want to set out what are some special requirements you have for supplies, though.

Also, give a brief estimate of how long you intend to go on the expedition.

> If there's anything else, think of it.

>>28007536
Hmm, a thought occurs, if we can't convince him to defect, we could send some messages to him that'd be intercepted by the Annam, that way if we can't recruit him, his superious will trust him even less, which would severely hamper him, or give him the push he needs to switch sides.

>>28007657
I like that idea.

However, could we probe our historical knowledge to determine why he defected to Annam in the first place?

We may be able to score a legendary admiral and a fleet here.

>>28007631
Can we stock the expeditionary force for up to three years?

>>28007614

That would not be a bad idea, if you have the time and inclination - you'd have to sail around Annam, taking the open ocean to avoid interception by Chen Tingji's ships, before you arrive at Chenla. Champa's even farther away.

>>28007617
>>28007589

After supper ends, Tho and Guo - both looking very contentedly fed - are seen to the gate of the inner compound, from which they will leave the Southwest Palace.

'Well, that was informative. If you want to look for me, I'll be at the butts.' Wenxun's favourite post-dinner activity, after a short walk and rest to digest, would be archery - at least forty rounds of it, four arrows each. He's hinting at a competition; you're not so sure.

Instead you head back to the study, feeling strangely calm about this. It's nice, now that Southwest Palace's real owner is back, to be able to feel like you are free in the palace. As you enter the study, you spot a slim, petite girl wiping the table, who turns around, spots you and looks rather frightened for a moment.

'Oh! Uh, Lord Meng!' She sputters. 'Good night. Uh, good evening. I beg your pardon.'

'Busy?' You sit down where you did just now. Xin'nu is slightly tanned, her hair done in two cute braids down the sides, large eyes turned away. She shakes her head.

> What say/ask the maid?
> Wenxun always says she has a crush on you. Oh well.

>>28007833
Any juicy gossip lately?

>>28007833
"Don't get so flustered. Just relax. I only wanted to ask a few questions."

brb shower

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>No China Quests on /tg/.
>Start writing my own China Quest/
>See this.
>Bar Status: Raised

I gotta say man, pretty impressive. It's rare to see people with a good understanding of Chinese history, let alone little obscure details like portraits of concubines or the correct protocol for kowtowing (wanwansui!)

Now my shit is just going to look amateurish.

>>28008205
>>28007869
>>28007899

> Thanks! Comes with being a chink and a history geek I suppose.

'Just relax, Xin'nu,' you say, smiling at her while she tries not to meet your gaze. Is that a blush? Seriously... 'I was just wondering if things have been well at the Palace. After all, it's been a long time since I was here, wasn't it?'

'I missed you- we, we missed you, Lord Meng. Really.' Xin'nu finally manages to come up with a smile. 'Though I think maybe the Butler is glad not to be bad at chess. Nowadays he goes around saying he is very good, but... but we all know!'

Mind, the Butler isn't too bad. Nothing like Wenxun, of course. Or, dare you say it, nothing like you.

You chit chat a little more, and then the topic switches all of a sudden to marriage. Not Xin'nu's, or yours - it would be far too presumptuous of her to say anything on that. But Wenxun's.

'That painting is so very beautiful. I wonder if she actually looks anything like in the painting. If so, then imagine the princes who will be going to Jin!' Xin'nu lowers her voice, glancing around. 'Even in here... there isn't just one prince being considered... let along in eight or nine kingdoms. Even... even the Khitan!'

> Ask about the possible procedures for courtship.
> Ponder the political significance. Xin'nu is lowfolk; some things you'd be better off telling her than any official, really.
> Other.

>>28008331
>> Ponder the political significance. Xin'nu is lowfolk; some things you'd be better off telling her than any official, really.

>>28008331
>> Ask about the possible procedures for courtship.

Be you a Han brother, OP? I'm just curious

>>28008331
>> Ponder the political significance.
It might be worth cultivating Xin'nu as a friend and confidant. We do need a few people detached from the endless entangling morass that is court politics, and she certainly hears enough things....

>>28008331
>> Ponder the political significance. Xin'nu is lowfolk; some things you'd be better off telling her than any official, really.

>>28008553
>>28008417

> Yep.

>>28008486
>>28008384

'Well... it is always useful to have the power in the Central Plains as an ally by marriage, I suppose. Don't you think? Jin has been founded nearly 8 or 10 years now, and perhaps they might even last.'

Personally you don't put too much store by that thought. Liang, the first dynasty to take the Central Plains after usurping the Tang Dynasty, lasted a good 15 years. Later Tang, which took over, lasted another 12. You glance up to see Xin'nu, slightly surprised by the fact that you asked her a question.

'Um... well, I suppose it would be handy. I wouldn't know about these things, of course... but having a princess for others to court, I'm sure that is prestigious in itself.' She comes close enough to you, while still bent over the table and wiping it, that you can smell her faintly - sweat, but a certain sweetness as well.

She whispers. 'If possible, the Second Prince should really try to get that princess as a wife! Now that would be prestige.'

> Wonder if that's something I can help with?
> Turn the topic to Xin'nu.
> How much does she know about... the struggle between the brothers? If there is one?
> Other.

>>28008655
>> Wonder if that's something I can help with?

>>28007749

Oh sorry, I forgot to answer this.

Three years is probably far too long, to be honest. You're more looking on a timescale of months, especially seeing as it takes all of 3 days to sail to the Annam border.

You're not being stationed somewhere, this is an attack.

>>28008704
Ok, would 4 months be pushing it?

>>28008699

Second this.

>>28008655
>> Other.
So, overheard anything worth of interest in these halls?

>>28008655
Broader question, how much do we want to drag Xin'nu into politics? We could probably go as far as to make her our spy, but it would be pretty exploitative and she doesn't seem particularly well equipped for it.

>>28008704
We'd have to appoint ourselves governor militant and basically run the province if we wanted to stay out that long. And that shit never ends well for anybody.

>>28007657
How could we get a message to him about possibly defecting? Do we have intelligence contacts in the South?

>>28008655
>> Wonder if that's something I can help with?

>>28008718

> 4 months would be a reasonable length, sure - it would also dodge the storm season. Always nice to be right back on land when a typhoon slams in.

>>28008699
>>28008720
>>28008728
>>28008794
>>28008778

As Xin'nu moves, you get a sense of her body that you never quite thought to pay attention to. It being relatively warm, her clothes are quite thin and form-fitting, and the muscles of her arms flexing gently as she pushes, wiping sweat off her brow...

Wait, what were you thinking about again? Marriage, politics. You wonder if Xin'nu might be any good, or if it would do her any good, to involve her in political matters. But then, she's here - she already *is* involved, in some way.

'It would be nice, the Second Prince having a wife from Jin. If she's half as pretty as the art, that would be enough by itself. But I wonder if there's anything I can do to help...'

'Well, Lord Meng, I'd think that if the Second Prince was interested in the match, he would have considered sending you north to Jin to woo on his behalf already.' She's finally done with the table, and stands beside you in your chair. 'I think he's assuredly going to ask you, as soon as possible. The First Prince... I heard he's already considering who to send with a proposal as well.'

Meanwhile, you are also considering the question of Chen Tingji. Again, as Sunzi said: preserving an army beats breaking an army. If you can get their best commander, whole...

> You would go wooing on Wenxun's behalf. Of course you would.
> If Wenxun asks me to go, then... but it's a long way...
> If others are already considering, would it not be too late by the campaign's end?

> Continue talking about something else (write-in)
> Make a move on Xin'nu, gently
> Other.

>>28008947
>> Make a move on Xin'nu, gently

>>28008947
>> You would go wooing on Wenxun's behalf. Of course you would.

> Make a move on Xin'nu, gently

>>28008947
>> If others are already considering, would it not be too late by the campaign's end?

>End conversation

No bastard breeding please

>>28008947
>> You would go wooing on Wenxun's behalf. Of course you would.

>End conversation and say that it was a pleasure to talk to her again.

>>28008991

seconding this

>>28008947
> You would go wooing on Wenxun's behalf. Of course you would.
People die, dynasties end, nations rise and fall. Only the family remains.

>End conversation
Uncomfortable power dynamic ho! Let's at least pretend to have some propriety, I'm not even saying we shouldn't do this, just not first thing after meeting her again.

>>28009014
This. Let's NOPE out of here.

I have a good feeling about this adventure now. An unoccupied fort, right off the coast? If it's any good, even our relatively small force can hold it against many times our number. And it would be a rock in the shoe of Annamese naval power.

And if my Chinese history is right, skilled but mistreated commanders are ripe for turning. From the sound of it, he's the only one holding the navy together and his men know it. If they are more loyal to their commander than their king our own fleet might potentially be bigger than we think.

The question we need answering though is what comes after. Say Chen switches sides, what then? How will he be treated? What do we do with his ships? Sorry First Prince, your little brother did so well your father the King needs some of your resources to capitalize on and support his efforts.

> I'm terribly tired, so after one or two posts I'll be off. Sorry for the short thread, and thank you all for playing.
> If this is still around by tomorrow I'll gladly pick it up.

Glancing at the slim girl, you wonder if... if perhaps she wants you to do something with her while you are talking about marriage. Of course, you're not inexperienced; you don't know about Xin'nu.

Then again, even if she does - and if she does, you really wouldn't mind - it might not be right to do it... now. You lift a hand, making for her arm, but then think better of it before she sees you.

'Wooing on Wenxun's behalf?' You say instead, looking into the distance. Well, really, what greater honour could there be, getting a bride for your sworn brother? 'I would, of course. I certainly would woo on his behalf.'

'Well, then... I know nothing, of course, but I do think now is the time to head north. Any longer, and maybe... the peach would be picked!'

The two of you continue making small talk for a while before you finally get up to leave, hearing in the distance a short round of drums signalling that Wenxun is also done with his archery practice. The sky outside is a deep blue, almost black, clouds like little purplish-red puffs drifting across it.

'Will you be off then, Lord Meng?'

'Yes. See you then, Xin'nu.' You pat her shoulder, and she gives you a slightly silly grin.

> Timeskip to bedtime and morning, or do anything before you sleep?

>>28009245
If this works well enough, we can cripple Annam and open the possibility of conquering it. That way, we could divert the attention of the first prince away from the north.

>>28009314
timeskip

>>28009245
We treat him as a brother. As for the ships, We leave a considerable number with him and distribute the others to other regions that need them

>>28009314
>> Timeskip to bedtime and morning, or do anything before you sleep?
Just go to sleep.

File: 1383089835098.png-(93 KB, 375x360, sticker,375x360.u1.png)

93 KB PNG

>>28009314
You're a good man Meng Hongyang. And it never hurts to take your time cultivating relationships with people, even if you do all but own them.

> Timeskip to bedtime and morning, or do anything before you sleep?
Timeskip

Rolled 87

>>28009314
before I catch up...
The general, whom was a friend of our father and with who we spoke before meeting up with 2nd prince, he asked us to invite him to join with us when we were going to revenge our father.
Is he an option OP, should we talk with him?

>>28009356
Second this.

Getting Chen would be an amazing political victory, it would generate a lot of positive propaganda for our brother back here in the Capital, while also opening up the way for a larger land invasion, one which would require some of the military forces the First Prince has, weakening his position.

>>28009318
>>28009245
>>28009351
>>28009356

> Okay I dozed off for two minutes. This will have to be last post for now.
> See you perhaps tomorrow. Keep the thread alive with suggestions, opinions etc. if you'd like!

Your sleep is calm and pleasant, and full of dreams of glory. Of ships laden with the loot of Annam, or perhaps a fleet far larger than the one that sailed out of Xingwangfu's naval harbour, containing one of the Kingdom's most formidable enemies, now a subordinate.

It's almost a pity to wake up. You are quickly informed that a Ministerial Council is in session, and that the King has invited you - by which, of course, he means he has summoned you there. A small feeling of dread washes over you. Why... would His Majesty need to see you all of a sudden? And at a meeting where for once you have no place?

Since it's not a large audience at all, you manage to get through into the Xingwangfu Main Palace without much trouble, and soon you are filing in behind the ministers and vice ministers, whose robes put yours - black and undecorated - to shame.

Still, nothing matches that of the King himself, sitting on a moving throne while wrapped in an apricot-coloured blanket. He looks a little better. You look to your right and see something certainly not better.

Wenxian. Wenxian's retainers are also here, for or five of them.

The King speaks, his voice wheezing but still powerful. 'I wish for it to be known that both my sons, and their advisors, have drawn up plans to attack their respective targets. Now. Whom among you - Wenxian's men, or Wenxun's men - shall speak first?'

It doesn't take long for you to see how this might be a trap. The ministers, their high level attendants - all unsympathetic to caution in war, as you know. They'll be probing you a lot harder...

> Get it over with. First.
> Let Wenxian speak. We can attack him.

>>28009537
>> Let Wenxian speak. We can attack him.

>>28009537
>> Let Wenxian speak. We can attack him.
He's the first son, he should get the right to speak first.

>>28009586
This.

>>28009537
> Let Wenxian speak. We can attack him.
It's only filial that we let him go first

>>28009471

You could go for it. Then again, Yang Jianzhi is being appointed for another campaign currently, but you could always talk to him.

>>28009537
Hey, OP, do we get to know our character stats?

bump

>>28009660
bumping

Rolled 6

bamp

Bumping for Xingzhe to eventually come back!

>>28009660
By the way, Xingzhe, which characters do you use for that name?

bump of the night

> Hurrah! Right I'm back for now.
> Typing.

>>28017921
Won't be joining you for at least 8 to 10 hours. I kind of need sleep now.

>>28017921
Oh lawdy he's back at 1:30 AM

>>28017921

Of course, representing the younger son, you decide at least to let the older son have his go first, at which point Wenxian stands up. There is something about Wenxian that meant you never warmed to him, even though he was your classmate too. A certain... selfishness, perhaps?

You can remember him once refusing to trade his radish pickles for your pickled onions at lunchtime. He's a bloody prince! What's a bloody pickled radish to him?!

Anyway. Wenxian's speech is based mostly around restoring the pride of the Southern Han. 'Since the end of the Tang, rulers have risen all around the world, and their efforts are to determine their fitness to rule. We of the Han have not failed in this duty. But many others have, and yet remain unpunished.'

'The State of Chu, occupying the rich lands of Jing and Xiang, despite its good climate and bountiful lands, have been mistreating their populace, levying heavy taxes, and engaging in internecine conflict for years now. This alone shows they are not justified to rule. Yet the indulgence of other states with their own pressing matters gives us an opportunity...'

The more you listen, the more you realise how much of this is absolutely bullshit. While it's true that Chu has been subject to strife the last few years - including an incident where the king sliced nearly 250 clansmen and concubines to death in Changsha's city square - it is not immediately clear that this has impacted their ability to defend themselves, especially not when they command rough terrain. Besides, the powerful state of Southern Tang sits downstream like a tiger; even if Chu is broken, it could avail you absolutely nothing, and strengthen a great enemy.

Glancing around though, you see the generals quiet, and the ministers nodding. This really is a rigged meeting...

> Keep it to yourself. Restraint, restraint.
> Voice your criticisms subtly.
> Voice them forthrightly.
> Other.

>>28018110
>Voice your criticisms subtly.
>Present own agenda/mission/case/whatever the word is for what we're doing
>Smooth_Operator.mp3

>>28018110
>Voice your criticisms subtly.

We were summoned to this council, so we have the right so speak.

Still, the First Prince is much higher in rank than we are. Don't dare to interrupt him, wait for a break of sime kind. Also, we should make sure Wenxun sees we are about to speak up. If he has plans of his own how to react to his brother's speech, he should be able to stop us. Maybe we should shift in our seat a bit before speaking.

>>28018180
>>28018143

Wenxun is sitting next to you - the Tang Dynasty's courtiers sit while in council, and Southern Han has taken that custom - and you glance down to see his fists clenching, subtly, in his lap. You take your memorial plaque and tap it against the floor, just loud enough to get Wenxun's attention.

His eyebrow moves; you blink twice; he gives a tiny nod.

Meanwhile Wenxian has finished talking about his military plan, which is also nonsensical - and, looking across the aisle, you can see the Yang Jianzhi thinks so too. Wenxian intends to take a fleet of 10,000 men, and an army double that size with half of the Royal Guard regiments, and sail upriver - over hills - to attack Wuzhou, a heavily fortified Chu stronghold.

After that, he would then sail up the river, cutting northwest before attacking Fuzhou, Zhaozhou, and finally the major metropolis of Guizhou. Were those cities unwalled, this plan might make sense. But as is, it is utterly predictable, and utterly dangerous...

'Your Majesty,' you say, during a break, and get to your feet when he nods.

> Criticise the military aspect.
> Criticise the political aspect.
> Criticise the moral aspect.
> Others.

>>28018110
>Voice your criticisms subtly.

Not a knock-out punch of criticism, more like death from a thousand cuts. Bring up multiple small/medium problems with the plan or potential threats that could develop to sow disillusionment among the ministers.

More problems cover more ministries after all, and 10 are harder to solve than one.

>>28018241
>Criticize the military aspect.
>Criticize the political aspect.
>Criticize the moral aspect.

Don't suppose we can just generally dismember him?

>>28018241
>Criticise the military aspect.
>Criticise the political aspect.
>Criticise the economic aspect.

What does the nation gain economically from this?

Thousand cuts across all 3 areas.

>>28018241
>Criticise the military aspect.

Bringer the attack to the enemy over a river has a lot of disadvantages.

First, only so many ships can sail next to each other. The landing of the troops would take a long time, all the while they are very vulnerable to ranged attacks. During the landing time, the enemy has more than enough time to organize his defenses.

Also, an attack on a heavily defended strucure will surely result in a lot of losses on our side. Our lines would be thinned out, not only making the further advance of the campaign more complicated, but also making all of Southern Han vulnerable to his other neighbours. You never know who is waiting to adanve on you while you are fighting a war on another front.

>>28018263
>>28018270

You wish to put forward one or two points of objection, not make your own long spiel.

Besides, seeing as how the ministers look generally happy with this idiotic plan, to go on and on about its idiocies will only alienate them more. Only the King needs to be convinced, but you do have to keep friends with the lot of those officials too.

> Unfortunately, you can only choose one. Remember what Wenxian is like, and what effect you're trying to achieve.

>>28018312
>Focus on politics. Highlighting military ineptitude will only cause scrutiny for Wenxun, and morality...well. Maybe next time.

>>28018325
I second politics as well. The military men present already know this plan is foolish, but they have agreed to it anyway.

Let us try and bring up domestic and foreign political ramifications that nobody has thought of, to convince the King and maybe some ministers.

> Split between military and political.

'Yes, Hongyang. You were going to say something,' the King says, holding his hand up when Wenxian is about to complain.

'Your Majesty. Your Highnesses. I have heard it said, that it is unwise for a man to fish in shark laden waters. Even if his boat is sturdy, he spends effort merely to make food for the sharks.'

'And what is your point?' Wenxian gives you a familiar look, that same look he gave when you wanted to share some radishes, or to borrow an inkstone. He senses a threat, and is getting ready to be angry. This is good.

'My point, sir, is that the powerful state of Southern Tang abuts Chu on a far longer front as well. They also have the advantage of the Great River for transporting troops. Were Chu's troops to move south and face us, then we will be fighting a fish merely to feed some other shark, would we not?'

'Southern Tang is in disarray!' He's raising his voice now. 'Their rulers are obsessed with Min and Wuyue on their east. And Chu is facing Shu on its northwest as well.'

'So Shu, whose troops *are* massed along their border and can move *downstream* on the Great River, will be the shark then. Either way, the men spend time and effort sailing upstream through narrow gorges, tearing their sandals on the jagged hills, and camp in the spring rains outside the high ramparts of Wuzhou...'

'You do sound almost like you've been wishing to take over this expedition,' Wenxian says. 'Or that it should fail.'

Ohhhh. Those are fighting words, then. Good! He's risen right to the bait.

> What do/say now, Hongyang? You've riled Wenxian. The King looks a little distant.

>>28018391
>Continue with political ramifications of trying to go in dry on the Chu, then flip it into the appeal and profit of the Annam theater.

>>28018391
I wish you many successes in your endeavour First Prince, for should you succeed our nation and people will be far stronger.

Yet as a loyal servant of His Majesty and our people, I thought it best to ask whether this is the best course of action. Maybe a smaller expedition with more easily attainable objectives would be prudent, as this would allow for a strategic reserve of manpower to meet any unexpected challenge. I'm sure General Jianzhi could command such a force.

(Let's get us a military ally here)

>>28018414

We probably shouldn't go plugging our own expedition already, just keep this about Wenxian and why his plan is risky and foolish, especially in terms of politics.

Naturally we don't wish harm on any member of our great nation, which is why we're raising these issues now instead of allowing the Chu to illuminate them.

>>28018464
We're here to present our expedition. We have to actually explain what we're doing.

>>28018464
>>28018485
>>28018414
>>28018436

Before you continue, you turn around to see Wenxun, fists now so tightly clenched they're tugging on his robes. His older brother always knew he had this weakness and was quick to exploit it. Not on your watch, though.

Forestalling your friend, you smile. 'On the contrary, Your Highness! Should this expedition be successful, I have no doubt it will be a brilliant success. All four of the cities you mentioned are wealthy with tea, silk and lumber, among other things. But His Majesty gathers us to give counsel, not merely in joy over our successes, but also to worry over the possible consequences and costs. Is it not incumbent on a courtier to share His Majesty's worries too?'

'Skip ahead, Hongyang,' the King says, rubbing his nose. He seems a little bored; perhaps he knows this will happen.

'Your servant apologises, Sire.' Then, straightening up, you go on the attack. 'Against Chu what is needed is an opportunity. If the time is opportune, then the First Prince's plan is sound. If Chu really is engaging in internecine warfare, its halberds turned on itself and its neighbours clamouring over its spoils, then we ought to grab what we can. But this is not the time. Chu is not well ruled, but neither is the misgovernment disastrous. It is not strong, but it remains united. Its troops are not the best trained, but its ramparts remain formidable.'

'Yet in Annam, to our south, the King has lost interest in defence and drowns himself in wine and women. The forts on their marine borders are abandoned incomplete, and keep no watch on us. Their fleet is demoralised and poorly fed, and their admiral-'

'Does Chen Tingji not still hold their fleets?' The King asks, suddenly sitting up. 'Wencao led a great fleet there and now he is buried in the cold earth. That man! That *beast*!'

> Well, now the king is riled. What do/say?
> The ministers also seem ready to jump into the fray, so be prepared to sell your plan. Hard.

>>28018485
Agreed. As is, his operation is, while heroic, very risky. Even if they do win, how many soldiers will we lose? Especially our royal guards? What we should present our option as is as a clean and effective way to whittle them down. Heck, no only can our plan whittle them down, but with the way their navy is so far, we could add their might onto their own and gain not only a well respected and loved admiral, but an entire war fleet right at the necks of our foe. We can win the battle with negative blood shed, gaining men from this maneuver and saving our elites here in case of other issues.

>>28018511
>Exploit the defector
>Mention Annam's mistrust in Chinji
>Openly ponder the question of removing him from the equation

>>28018511
Yes, he is a beast. But he is a beast who has the loyalty of his men and the fear of his lord. He is a beast who is abused and unfed while his master cares little for his pups. He is a beast who has to search for scraps on his own because his master cares only for himself. If we could sever the leash, give him food and money for his men and himself, he will probably be more than happy to sink his teeth into his former master and if we are wise, he may hand his leash to us.

>>28018581
>>28018536

You instinctively know there would be no point getting the King to accept Chen Tingji. The killer of his own son - well, you wouldn't forgive either. Still.

'Sire, Chen Tingji does still hold their fleets. But those fleets have become demoralised because their King will not support them. They are forced to scatter and rob villages for food, so they can defend themselves against us. Already, by doing almost nothing, we have forced them into such a position.'

The King does not speak, but instead gestures, and one of the ministers stands. It's the Minister of Works, Gao Ze. 'Lord Meng, you speak of Chu as if you fear them, even though General Yang and the First Prince will be leading the armies. What is your intent? Are you attempting to usurp credit that is due someone else, all for your little project of personal revenge? How can you charge the First Prince of lacking insight, when you have no inclination for the public interest at all?'

'Yes, he just wants to avenge his father,' the muttering resounds throughout the hall.

> What do/say? Damn it.

>>28018623
>Annam has built two new palaces in three years
>Loot and plunder will cause our coffers to swell
>Retake trade routes that Annam has taken from us

>>28018647
And:
>Naval dominance in the south seas
>Crippling their trade and economy now will allow them to be more easily annexed in the future

>>28018659
>>28018647

'It is true, minister Gao. I wish revenge for my father. Is that not natural? Am I supposed to forget his death so easily?'

'You are a son, Lord Meng, but you are also an official.' This time it's the Minister of the Civil Service, Yang Yiguan. 'If your personal feelings cloud your judgement, then you are also failing your duties elsewhere.'

Damn. Now Wenxian's eyes are wide, and he is glancing between the King and his brother. There was never a choice, but nonetheless the cat is out of the bag; now you are known to be about to lead an expedition as well. No choice but to sell it so much the King will back you, then!

'My duties elsewhere are loyalty to His Majesty, and to the mass of common people in Han. Annam has grown prosperous even as it becomes complacent, and looting them will swell the state coffers. If their navy is broken, it is as if their legs have been broken; the southern sea will be ours for command and trade. And finally, let no one forget that Annam are merely a group of rebels who were the King's subjects. If we break them, they can be brought to heel more easily.'

'If, if, if! None of you have naval experience,' says the Minister of War, getting to his feet. Now it's one on three, is it? 'Annam has had peace with us for a decade, with minor incidents at most. Chu has been plotting to destroy us over the last three years. Why are we starting new wars instead of finishing the old ones? This will drain, not replenish, our resources!'

> Your reply, Hongyang?

>>28018707
>Bring out the big gun(whatever), mention Guo Xuyou
>The Chu theater is far from certain considering their defensive and geographical advantages

>>28018707

>>28018647 and>>28018727 here, I'm going the fuck to bed. I'll continue to participate if the thread survives until tomorrow afternoon! Otherwise, peace out.

>>28018707
>>28018707
>Question the Minister's priorities. Surely we should aim to reclaim a rebellious province with minimal effort, rather than attempt to untangle ourselves in regional power struggles
>Inform the Minister that we have sought out naval expertise and achieved it
>Talk up the prospect of overseas expansion to the islands - boundless resources ripe for the taking and with no external, once Annam has been crippled.

>>28018707
We could use the ressources gained from conquering Annam to fund a proper campaign against Chu.

While we are not afraid of them, shouldn't we wait for their internal strife to have weakened them enough before attacking? That way, we will minise the cost.

>>28018963
Something along this works for me

>>28019871
It's more of a plan to use a fraction of the men to swell our coffers so that we can spare no expense for the campaign against the Chu. If anything the new trade routes we would get out of it might pay for that war by itself.

If we seize the sea we can then slowly choke Annam until it's ready to fall.

>>28018963
I have to say this is pretty good.

>>28018707
Has noone yet thought of a temporary alliance with the Southern Tang, just so we can gangrape Chu together? Or will that be extending too far?

>>28019871
>>28021242
>>28021450
>>28021576
>>28021589
>>28018727
>>28018963

Of course, the minister is being dishonest. You *have* had naval experience, and what could Wenxun have done in Hainan other than naval fighting, to suppress the pirates? But there seems no point in arguing with him about that.

'Sir, let me assure you that we have sought out naval expertise, and have found treasure. Not only do we have a commander for our fleet, but we also have officers who have defected from Annam, and know about its circumstances. It is because of this, that the plan to attack Annam was devised in the first place.'

'Well, who is this officer?'

'Guo Xuyou,' you say. 'He has been in the navy for years, and fought hard against pirates. Surely, it would be easier to attack an enemy whom we know, which used to be a province of ours, than to strike forth into unknown lands and take our chances. Besides, with a powerful navy and secure trade, we will have an advantage far above that of four more cities to the north. Instead of sending troops up a river, now the whole world can come to us at Xingwangfu.'

'Right, right, stop it for now,' the King said, softly but firmly, and all of you go back to standing in attendance. He sighs. 'The expedition to Chu, will be ours to consider for now. We will move on them, but in what manner is to be determined. As for the expedition to Annam... Mu'er, Meng Hongyang.'

Mu'er - well, the King would be the only person to use that form of address on Wenxun, whose birth name is Liu Mu. Both Wenxun and you immediately bow. 'We are present.'

'Come with me to the rear hall.'

> cont'd.

>>28021970

The rest of the courtiers, including a visibly enraged Wenxian, leave, and about twenty minutes later you are in the rear hall. The King has been borne here by twelve men on a sedan, but when he arrives at the threshold, he dismisses them and walks in on his own feet.

Huh. He's clearly not quite as ill as he seems...

After he sits, the King looks both of you over. 'Who was the person who came up with the naval plan to attack Annam?'

'Hongyang did, Father.' Eh? Wenxun says it with apparently firm assurance that the King already likes the plan, and is therefore going to give you credit. But you're not quite as sure as he is. Still, no choice now... you bow.

'Mm. Tell me. Which of these do you think is the true foundation of the Han right now?'

> Securing the trade from the South Seas.
> Conquering Annam, and thereby expand Han's territories.
> Focusing on the domestic economy and infrastructure.
> Relations with the Northern dynasties (currently the Jin).
> Other.

>>28022076
>Securing the trade from the South Seas

>>28022076
Something about this guy fills me with a sense of political dread. We should probably obfuscate with some Confucian wisdom. So:

>Following the sage kings and living by strong principles is the foundation for any dynasty

>>28022076
>>28021970
> economy and infrastructure.

Conquest and war brings great reward, but its a zero sum game. If all of your security is based purely on conquest, you are forced to continually conquer. And rapid expansion without a stable base is destined to split and fracture in the long term. A solid base is needed to ensure solid gains in the future.

The best way to ensure a solid foundation however, is often through military action to secure the resources necessary to build that strong foundation. Trade, is one key aspect, but rooting out meddling rivals and securing overlordship over them is also necessary.

To make sure our sea trade routes are secure we must become dominant power at sea, which can only be achieved by pacifying the Annam.

You need both a strong military and a strong economy to become a long term power, and having both puts us on a more secure diplomatic footing.

>>28022076
We must not only secure the South Seas but our relations with the Northern dynasties as well.

Once we have done this we can focus our efforts on building up our domestic econmy and infrastructure to make sure the country can handle us going to war in the future.

>>28022163
I actually sort of agree. Any opinions we should be giving this guy would sound better coming from the prince's lips than ours.

>>28022203
>>28022190
>>28022181
>>28022163
>>28022149

You hesitate for a long while. You've always been quite worried about speaking to the King. He is the King, after all; all authority resides in his hands within Southern Han, and he built up and led this state from its very founding. How long has it been now - 20 years? 25? You don't get to rule for that long, in these times, without deadly cunning and might.

'Of course, Your Majesty, the most important thing is to adhere by the virtues of man, to pay attention to the right relations of ruler and subject, father and son-'

'Yes, yes. Yes. But leaving that aside?'

'Well, Your Majesty. I am hard pressed to say which is the only thing to pursue. I believe that first, the South Seas should be secured, but this is by no means an end. Eventually the control of the South Seas is merely a means to gaining the wealth and resources to achieve other ends.'

'And what ends are those?'

'Above and around us - securing good relations with the imperial court in the North, and building the fleets and armies that protect and extend the Han kingdom. And below us, to pay for the works, projects, talent and laws that will enrich the common folk and gain their faith and loyalty.'

'Mmm. Mmm.'

> cont'd.

>>28022411

For a long, long while, the King simply sits there, eyes closed; if he wasn't stroking his beard, you might think he had fallen asleep. But then, finally, his eyes open a little and he nods, before turning to Wenxun.

'Your brother does not know strategy, Mu'er. He wishes to attack the state that sits astride our main northward route. If they cut our access to the Xiang river, and from there to the Great River, then what use are four prefectures? What use are *fourteen* prefectures? But you must also be careful. You notice Hongyang does not say to conquer Annam. Would that be useful? They would merely resist us as hard as they can, and any benefit we'd gain from their trade would be lost.'

'Yes, Father.'

'It is easy to overreach,' he goes on, eyes misty as if with recollection. 'It is difficult to pull back.'

> Keep quiet.
> Ask if this means the expedition is approved.
> Ask if this means the Chu expedition is off.
> Others.

>>28022425
>Keep quiet.
Ol' Kingy thinks we'll make a good adviser for his favorite son.

>>28022425
>Keep quiet

When the king is ready he will tell us.

>>28022425
>All quiet on the Hongyang front

>>28022449
>>28022487

'Certainly, Father.' Wenxun looks up, and you can tell he's considering asking the same questions. But then he blinks and looks back down again.

> Roll d100. You have a major bonus (+30).

>>28022530
>Lice World War I
>Two sides engaged in trench warfare on Hongyang's Scalp.
>Use lice shampoo as mustard gas artillery.

File: 1383157915072.png-(228 KB, 500x289, 2funky.png)

228 KB PNG

Rolled 38

>>28022546

Rolled 25

>>28022546

Rolling!

Rolled 85

>>28022546
>>28022546

Rolled 20

>>28022546
>> Roll d100. You have a major bonus (+30).

Rolled 99

>>28022546

>>28022644
bitchin'

>>28022644
>>28022585
>>28022590
>>28022579
>>28022560

> .... what, finally good fortune comes?!
> 99: Great success!

Another long while passes. You can hear, strangely loud despite the distance, a bird chirping in the gardens beside the rear hall. Listening to the lovely, warbling song, you almost miss the King beginning to speak.

'I have decided.' He looks down, into the middle distance between both of you. 'You may go forward with the Annam campaign. This is going to be mostly a naval campaign, then, am I right to think so? Not to hold cities, but to break their navies and courage and wreck them as much as possible?'

'C-certainly, Your Majesty.'

'Good.' He takes a small token out of his sleeve which, even at a distance, is recognisable - and makes your eyes widen. Wait a minute, that is a Jade Tiger Token... with a black tassel, signifying its use for the navy. 'Mu'er, come. This Jade Tiger will allow you to command, as you will, any naval forces in Hainan and to the west of Leizhou, for the duration of the campaign. This includes the marines on board.'

'Father!' While Wenxun does the emotions, you do the quick math. No idea what the forces west of Leizhou are like, but the major naval base at Leizhou for fighting pirates is known to contain 40 ram ships, and 5 fortress ships. That itself is a major force! Add the marines, and you estimate you might actually have some 18,000 men at your disposal.

Wait, yours? The *Prince's* disposal, you fool.

> cont'd.

>>28022794

'Sire,' you say softly, 'pardon my rudeness, but how about supplies?'

'For supply, you ought to go to the merchants instead of the officials. The ministers here will do nothing but hamper you, subtly if not openly. So be careful. As for Wenxian, he will not command the Chu campaign. He will not even participate. Perhaps a spell of letting him stay in the capital will make him learn some insight.'

The King turns to look at you as Wenxun retreats. 'Hongyang. Mu'er will be appointed Commander and Inspector of Naval Forces. And I will appoint you as the Adjutant Appraiser and Commissioner.'

The parallel is pretty obvious to you - Wenxun's rank is the same as Zhou Yu's, and you are to be his Lu Su. Immediately both of you get down on your knees. 'Your Majesty's wisdom will be vindicated. Your servants receive their orders with eagerness!'

'Good. Is there anything else you might want, then?'

Oh... oh wait.

> Choose up to 2 of the following:

> Allow letters of marque for pirates.
> An Imperial edict requisitioning supply for naval forces.
> Some sort of personal reward (this is not uncommonly included in appointment orders)
> Ease up on Wenxian; allow him to go on expedition.
> Inquire about the matter of marriage from the Later Jin.
> Allow Chen Tingji a stay of execution if he defects.
> Write-in.

>>28022855
> reward - a share of captured loot
> Imperial edict of supply

Rolled 50

>>28022855
>> Allow Chen Tingji a stay of execution if he defects.
>> Inquire about the matter of marriage from the Later Jin.

Having Chen Tingji join us would be the most humiliating and crushing of defeat.

>>28022855
> Allow Chen Tingji a stay of execution if he defects.
> Inquire about the matter of marriage from the Later Jin.

>>28022917
>>28022900
> allowing a notorious traitor a stay of execution

Treachery should not be rewarded, and we promised our co-conspirators a share of loot. If we ask for it openly, we won't get caught in a scandal skimming it off the top.

>>28022855
> Allow Chen Tingji a stay of execution if he defects.
> Ease up on Wenxian; allow him to go on expedition.

Rolled 16

>>28022855
>> Allow Chen Tingji a stay of execution if he defects.
or
> Allow letters of marque for pirates.
expendable troops

> Some sort of personal reward (this is not uncommonly included in appointment orders)
something to pay them with like a share of loot.

>>28022946

He's not a traitor. He's an enemy general and always was. So he should be fought, but then well treated after the fighting.

That's how people know we have a virtuous and magnanimous king.

>>28022968
No, he used to be a Chinese general. He defected.

>>28022974

No, he is *Chinese*. There are still Chinese people nowadays in Vietnam, you know.

>>28023011
He is specifically an emigre, which means he's an exile. That's what the word means.

> An émigré is a person who has "migrated out", often with a connotation of political or social self-exile.

>>28022956
>>28022954
>>28022917
>>28022900
>>28022888

> Chen Tingji's stay of execution is the current winner.
> Second option is a tie between loot and the Jin marriage thing. One is of immediate economic importance; the other could be of far-reaching political dimensions.

> Or you could choose something else or write-in. Go ahead. I'll go shower.

>>28023049
You know what? I think I'll change to the marriage proposal

>>28023049
The future is the future. We've made promises that have to be kept -now-. Loot is part of that promise.

Besides, victory at sea and new wealth is a key part of being an ideal suitor anyway. Its a wasted vote since victory gives us it anyway.

Rolled 83

>>28023066
You have a point. I think I should change my vote to loot, to follow up on our promise if anything.

>>28023066
A good point I have to say, I change mine also to Loot.

>>28023056
>>28023066
>>28023162

> Okay. I'll be off to dinner after this post, but this thread should rumble on as it has been over the last day.
> Thanks for playing, you people restore faith in tg's critical thinking abilities. And in general.

'Your Majesty, the first thing I would request would be of a... personal nature. Namely, a share of the plunder from Annam. This is not for the commanders alone; the soldiers must be paid well to fight hard, and the merchants will want payment for whatever they help us with...'

'That is reasonable,' he nods, now simplifying his responses. 'You will have a third of the loot, for your own distribution. Is that enough?'

'Certainly, Sire. And secondly...'

'Secondly, Father, is my own request. He may be the murderer of my brother, and of your son, but I would request that Chen Tingji, if he is captured or defects to us, must be stayed from execution.'

The silence that follows right after this makes you feel like you're standing on the coast watching a typhoon head in, just before the rain starts slapping you about the head. The King gets slowly to his feet, one hand still leaning on the throne for support. 'I take it both of you have thought of this?'

'... yes, Sire.'

'You both have guts. You do. I have said, and you both know this, that I will execute him and whoever in his family should fall in my hands, for years and years. Now the best opportunity comes, and you will have me swallow my words. Give me a reason.'

> What say here, Hongyang?

>>28023323
Some fucking dumb shit about using him or something. I don't understand the rationale for keeping him alive.

He's highly competent and seems to fucking hate our nation. Killing him should be a priority.

>>28023323

Because magnanimity is a prime virtue in a ruler. People dig that and will serve us more loyally. And they will come to serve us.

>>28023323
"This man is a valuable asset. One who has proven himself in battle as a worthy foe. While we were still humiliated by him in the past, it would not be wise to cloud our judgement with petty revenge. If we can bring him into the fold, his genius may save many lives and may very well result in a swift victory. But, should he prove untrustworthy, I will bring you his head myself."

Rolled 77

>>28023323
He would be a valuable asset to us alive. He care more about his men than his own king, this king that will not even care for his own navy.

He is ripe for the picking. If we can sway him and the men loyal to him to our side, our combined fleet would give us a swift and humiliating victory. Why defeat them when we could crush them? Bringing him to our side and using him to defeat his own kingdom would be the most humiliating defeat I am able to imagine.

He was but a tool in the hand of his king. Blaming the weapon for the murder is an exercise in futility.

Even a man who has caused great harm, could be put to great use if wielded properly. Consider Jia Xu, once an enemy of Cao Cao, who became one of his most brilliant strategists.

Or something to that effect.

>>28024199
I also want to draw to attention his current predicament, and liken it to Zhang He in the service of Yuan Shao. Right now his talents are being squandered and he's unappreciated. We, more than anybody can appreciate his prowess at the sea. Should we manage to convince him to join our side, we can wield his terrifying power against our opponents, instead of having to face it ourselves.

>>28023323
The state has to come before anything else. Even revenge. Shit is about to get real up in this middle kingdom. There going to be a lot more lordless ministers and generals to come, and we need to make sure they come to us. The reverse holds true too. Those who refuse generous terms won't get a second chance.

bump

> Once again, my faith in tg quest players is revived.

You take a deep breath to compose yourself, and then step up.

'Sire, I have two reasons. The first is to do with Chen Tingji himself. He is a man of talent, and he has proven that talent against us.'

'As I damned well know,' the King growls at you.

'But what can be used against us, Sire, can be used *by* us. Emperor Wu of Wei lost his eldest son to the machinations of Jia Xu, but instead of executing him, he made Jia Xu one of his foremost strategists. If command of the sea is of crucial importance to Han, then having Chen Tingji will be crucial to that goal. Besides, he is underappreciated by his current ruler, and it will be easy to secure his loyalty.'

The King blinked, then after a few seconds, he asks you for the second reason.

'The second is one of principle, Your Majesty. Again, to see the example of Emperor Wu of Wei, he rarely killed anyone who came to his service, because he knew that a name for virtue and generosity to scholars is easily lost and hard-won. Han relies for governance on the educated, the talented and skilled. If such people are killed, then they will not come...'

> cont'd.

>>28023389
>magnanimity
>>28024199
>Cao Cao
These two raise good points. Gaining a reputation for recognition of talent, even talented enemies, and rewarding it appropriately could be very good for us in the future. Not only are talented officers likely to flock to our banner, but our enemies are far less likely to fight to the bitter end against us rather than surrendering honourably, as that sort of reputation is the sort of thing that can be respected universally. Our own men will also be significantly more willing to fight to the end for us if we're known for good treatment of our subordinates.

Let's just try to avoid the *rest* of Cao Cao's reputation.

>>28025864

The King sits back in his throne and heaves a long sigh, before looking up at the ceiling. Wenxun sidles up to you and shakes his head, but then he speaks.

'You have a point, Hongyang. Perhaps you do.'

It feels as if an entire day has passed, before he continues.

'I will stay his execution. But, Meng Hongyang, if he proves to be disloyal, it's not just his head I will have. Will you promise his loyalty?'

It's pretty clear whose is the other head he means, of course...

> Promise Chen's loyalty.
> Well... actually...
> Other.

Also, after this meeting, what will you do?

>>28025970
Make the promise, and do so with enthusiasm.

>>28025970
We have no idea how loyal he'll be.

Unless we plan to somehow get him to swear us his life during this campaign.

>>28025970
>> Promise Chen's loyalty.
Should I be able to sway him to our side, I will take responsibility should he proves to be disloyal and offer my head along with his.

>>28025970
">"You will have him, or I will take him and then myself for you."

post-meeting...I forget what else is on the docket right now.

>>28025970
>> Promise Chen's loyalty.

>>28025970
"I can make no promise on that front. I can only promise you that I will try to persuade him. Though, if you wish to punish me for any failings, I will gladly accept them."

>>28025970
Promise Chen's loyalty. Don't be hesitant, or else the king will doubt us.

>>28025970
Oh yeah, the aftermeeting.

Lets go look at our list of tasks for today then consult Wenxun.

>>28025970

A little listing of the tasks ahead:

> By tomorrow evening, you will be setting off from Xingwangfu. Since this is now a navel expedition, you will be setting off from the port in ships.

> You might want to meet the merchants, depending on what you want of them.
> You might want to say some fond farewells.
> If there's anyone else you want to meet, time to do it.

>>28026081
Let's go meet the merchants. Do they have any exotic equipment or substances?

> I'll combine your response (which is confirmed) with any post-meeting plans.

> One more day before war starts. Oh, also, there's a map you might want to consult...
> Also, the plans could be worked out. You do have a fleet that possibly needs defeating, after all.

>>28026081
>> You might want to meet the merchants, depending on what you want of them.
Lets go meet the merchants, we need supplies and they can benefit from a safer southern sea.

>>28026081
>> If there's anyone else you want to meet, time to do it.
Research into Chen. Find out if he has family members we can take hostage (nothing sinister, just standard feudal MO). See if he has any particular buttons we can push beyond "your king is bad and you should feel bad".

>>28026168
Figuring out WHY he defected could be nice as well.

>>28026168
We know he is a good leader to his men. Perhaps if we capture some of them, treat them properly, then send a few back to him, we could possibly sow discord and make it easier to sway him?

Rolled 84

>>28026081
> You might want to say some fond farewells.
Yang Jianzhi

>>28026237
> You might want to say some fond farewells.
And maybe Xin'nu. Because we are junzi tier and she'd probly feel bad if we got fragged in a naval battle without saying goodbye.

>>28026306
Gotta say good bye to the ladies

'I cannot promise, Your Majesty, what is in Chen's heart. But I can promise that I will do my level best to persuade him. And if he should be disloyal, then my life is as forfeit as his.'

The King nods gravely, and that's it. Walking down the steps from the rear hall, you look at Wenxun, who nods, with a certain confidence. 'He will not betray us.'

'I'm glad you have the ability to read minds now, Wenxun.'

'If Chen can endure hardship with such fortitude, he is naturally inclined to loyalty. So it will be difficult to get him to join us. But once he joins us, he will be inclined to loyalty.'

The next thing to do, it seems, will be to meet the merchants. While you now think you'll probably have enough in terms of supply to tide yourself over, it might be good to arrange resupply and transport from those merchants as well...

The small group of merchants that Wenxun has invited are crowded around, and they do seem chary of contributing to you. Before too long, they decide to give their price. In return for nearly half of your share of the loot, they will send ships over to you every month with food, ammunition and to help you carry loot back to home base.

> Agree to the price.
> Reject the deal; other arrangements can always be made.
> Other.

>>28026168
>>28026180
>>28026209

> Also, roll d100 for research. You might dig up something interesting in the official archives - or rather you might get someone to dig up something for you. Ain't got the time to be digging through the archives while preparing for war...

>>28026474
Can we haggle to a third of the loot? Haggling is a very old tradition.

>>28026474
>reply 40% of our share
>they will say 47%
>we say 42%
>agree on 45%

Rolled 15

>>28026474
>Other.
Haggle. Offer them a fourth of the loot, we'll give them a third at most.

Rolled 28

>>28026525

Rolled 67

>>28026474
Try to haggle it down. The merchants will benefit a lot if we succeed.

Rolled 50

>>28026525

Rolled 84

>>28026474
Haggle it much lower(30%?), merchant will earn alot when this campaign is succesful

>>28026533
>>28026537
>>28026553

Roll d100 for haggling as well, then.

> Of course, please mark your rolls as either research or haggling. And if you have any good arguments you can make besides the usual haggling schtick, go for it.

Rolled 30

>>28026648

Rolled 54

>>28026648
Rollin for hagglin

Again, the merchants will benefit a lot if we manage to clean up the southern sea.

Rolled 25

>>28026648
Haggling.
We're launching this campaign to secure the southern coast and acquire the trade going through its ports. We'll, by necessity, displace the merchants currently occupying that space. Unless they turncoat of course. If the campaign goes well we'll open up entirely new markets and the merchants in the room will get first dibs.

Rolled 1

>>28026648

Rolled 98

>>28026657
haggling

Rolled 3

>>28026648
Well the main point to bring out is the south sea

File: 1383177804198.png-(280 KB, 452x710, You drive me to drink.png)

280 KB PNG

Rolled 39

>>28026677
>>28026648
Haggle.

>>28026697
mother fucker

>>28026697
>>28026677

> FUCK. FUCK FUCK FUCK.
> 1: Critical failure.

You attempt to haggle with the merchants, who, despite being a small group of just 15 or 20, are still far too large to be individually recognisable. They are already unhappy that they have to buy most of their trade goods via the state monopoly, and are not very inclined to take just a little loot in exchange for what is practically a government requisition scheme.

'You merchants don't get this, do you? All your trade comes in from the South Sea, and we are helping you to secure your profits...'

They are adamant that you are doing nothing of the sort, instead just trying to tie up their ships. Even the presence of Wenxun does not help. While they are appropriately deferential, the merchants eventually decide not to support you at all.

Fuck! Maybe the Edict of Supply might have helped. But then again... maybe it might not. Perhaps haggling and threats don't make a good mix; one attempts to signal strength, but the other signals desperation.

> cont'd.

>>28026827
oh bollocks

>>28026827

> research: 84 = sucess!

The rest of the afternoon goes by in a whirl, tempered somewhat by the anticipation of departure. You remain in the Imperial archives, requesting documents from the scribes and clerks, while Wenxun has gone back to the Southwestern Palace and is sending you missives every now and then.

Most of them are good news. The ships from around the area are beginning to stream into Xingwangfu, to form the nucleus of your fleet; meanwhile messengers have been sent on swift boats and horses to Leizhou and Lianzhou, the two major western naval bases, ordering that they gather their fleets and await the commander.

Mixed in with that, you manage to learn quite a bit more about Chen Tingji. Huh. It turns out his father was once a prefect in Annam, in the last decades of the Tang Dynasty. Chen was therefore born there, though he remains Chinese in upbringing.

When Ngo Quyen, Annam's current king, declared his revolt, he wanted Tingji - who was already well known as a naval commander and navigator - to join him, but Tingji had originally pleaded to return to Han, and never to command ships against Annam. This was not enough for Ngo, who imprisoned Chen Xu, Tingji's father, and held him hostage.

... so that was why Chen Tingji became Annam's most fearsome naval commander...

> Move on to say goodbye to Xin'nu?
> Do some more research on (name topic)?
> Or let's go drinking and whoring! Why not?
> Other.

>>28026908

> Move on to say goodbye to Xin'nu?

>>28026948

This. Maybe even get laid if we can.

Rolled 61

>>28026908
>> Do some more research on (name topic)?
Lets research the history of Ngo Quyen and his ancestor.

>>28026908
So let's get this straight. He WANTS to work for Southern Han?

Time to personally oversee the rescue of his father and win his undying loyalty.

Rolled 4

>>28026908
>>28026972
Time to research the current ruler.

File: 1383179386986.gif-(93 KB, 150x150, 1377925692721.gif)

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>>28026677
I leave for half an hour..... So how are we going to pay for this now? I adamantly oppose foraging on the peasantry, as it will seriously harm our image.

>>28026908
I think we have enough to go on, the rest we could probably piece together in the field. Time for DARING HEROICS!

Move on to say goodbye to Xin'nu?
I vote no on canoodling for now. We are an elegen/tg/entryman. Once we come home on the other hand....

Rolled 66

I kinda feel sorry for Tingji, he basically got himself caught in Xu Shu's prediciment, while being treated like Zhang He under Yuan Shao.

I want to recruit some intel about Chen Xu, if we can get him out of their clutches, he has no reason to stay, and every reason to leave. If he is already dead, then the chains binding him have already been removed.

>>28026996

> Good that you brought this up. I forgot to say this.

A few months after Chen Tingji accepted his commission with Annam, his father died. But by then it was too late, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Isn't it weird how great rebel commanders sometimes do things like these...?

>>28026972
>>28027012

Not much is known about Ngo Quyen; he is generally secretive, and in fact does not even spend much of his time in the original capital city at Dai Loa anymore. (That city is along the Red River, and is known to us as Ha Noi).

Instead, having 'defeated' the Chinese, he appears to have been focusing his efforts rather on the south. So maybe Chen Tingji's incessant raiding of Chenla and Champa aren't necessarily accidents, but might actually have been ordered?

Another quirky fact you found is that Ngo Quyen has about 35 concubines, and apparently more than 120 sons. Honestly, the day that old bastard dies, Annam will fall apart like a Tang three-coloured porcelain vase dropped from a pagoda...

>>28027040

Well, the situation appears to be that you have enough grain and supplies to last you three months, as per the King's orders (and, hopefully, the compliance of the garrisons). After that, you're pretty much on your own.

To be sure, if you're foraging on the Annamese peasantry, it might not matter so much. Or perhaps you still have three months with which to negotiate a deal with the merchants. Or, indeed, the campaign might not even last three months! Who knows, right?

... well, one can hope?

> cont'd.

>>28027102
Well then, it's even easier. Offer him a high ranking position in the navy, a chance to strike back against those who treated him and his family poorly and amnesty for his actions in the war.

We should try to get him to work with the Prince rather than the King himself, having the most feared naval captain of the age would be a terrefic boon for the inevetable bid for the throne.

>>28027102

> Xin'nu.

It is almost evening by the time you send a messenger to good old Gen, telling him about everything and instructing him to keep the house and servants in order. Then you ride to the Southwest Palace, which is already in dusk, to be met by Wenxun at the gate.

'What's going on?'

'Well, you ought to have some rest, Hongyang.' Wenxun smiles. 'Tomorrow is the day for glory. To think I've been back in the Palace all of two days...'

He sounds surprisingly tired, but also somehow determined, as he goes on to tell you that tomorrow morning there will be a military parade and inspection at the Military Harbour. You might have to come up with something to say; it is mostly the vice-commander's job to give an address, while Wenxun inspects the troops. 'I can't tell which is more boring,' you say.

'I bloody well can!' Wenxun punches your chest lightly. 'Then after that, well, go sleep with someone, drink, whatever. Be back by the You hour. We'll be sailing at nightfall and moving out with the gibbous moon and good tide.'

Makes sense...

'Also, she's preparing your bed,' Wenxun gestures. 'Go say some goodbyes.'

So she is. Xin'nu is stretching the bed out, attentively, when you enter and close the door so she knows. She quickly wheels around. 'Lord Meng! I... heard you are going on an expedition.'

'So I am.' You sit on the bed she's just made, and then realise what a fool move that was. Tsk. 'It's good to see you, just to say some goodbyes.'

'Don't say that, Lord Meng!' She shakes her head. 'It's not goodbye. Just temporary, I'm sure. And with your skill, and the Second Prince's skill, you'll be victorious and back in no time.'

She sounds a little downcast as she says that, though.

> What do/say, Hongyang?

>>28027249
>saying anything

I say, rip her clothes off and growl aggressively!

>>28027249
Then it is not goodbye and instead i'll see you when I come back from a successful campaign.

>>28027331

Have some respect, man!

Ask her to sit down. Tell her some stories of naval command. Tell her we'll be fine.

>>28027345
Sounds good to me.

>>28027249
Reassure her.

>>28027345
Agreeing with this

>>28027249
I'm not even going to go full CLASSYGENT on this one. This may as well happen. On the other hand....

>>28027331
wan wan bu ke.

>>28027345
No Pickles, I will not have respect. The people in this quest have been too dang polite for my taste. Also, not enough sword fighting.

>>28027345
agreed

>>28027376
We're a fucking Chinese noble. Respect and politeness are our bread and butter.

Besides, we should be seducing noblewomen.

Rolled 88

>>28027434
She's just a practice girl.

>>28027434
Well.... Chinese gentlemen certainly didn't have anything against side action as long as it was discrete and the woman knew how to act right.

Most of the obsession with MUH VIRTUES and women jumping down wells was just morality plays by state sanctioned writers. It's not a mistake that most of the famous literature we give a shit about was unsanctioned and considered a bit vulgar by the standards of the day.

>>28027449
Apprently a really damn good one, judging by that roll.

I kinda want to timeskip to the next day, and let people just imagine what happened last night. That way we can sidestep the whole argument.

>>28027376

> Just like to note that you're heading into a war. So be patient.

You smile. 'Why're you looking so sad? Come, sit down.'

'Huh? But-'

'Sit.' You pat the bed beside you. Man, this is a nice duvet. Very cautiously, Xin'nu sits on it, and the softness is such that for a moment she leans backwards as if about to roll onto the bed by accident. But you hold her shoulders up, gently. 'You know what a naval battle is like?'

'No, Lord Meng. Do you?'

'Well, yes. Not a very big one. Just 20 light ships against 10 pirate ships.' You tell her some anecdotes while remembering to skip over most of the gory details - she doesn't need to know what happens when a sling-stone hits a row of oarsmen by damn blind luck. (Answer: it takes days to clean them off the deck.) Instead you tell her about the sailing, and about how to get people to row in unison so the ship gains speed for ramming. And then the boarding action, with the unfolding cloud-ladders. The shouts of bowmen nocking and drawing and loosing.

The more you say, the more Xin'nu looks alternately horrified and amazed. 'To think it's this dangerous and deadly! And yet to think that you are all like brothers...' she looks down. 'What heroes all of the soldiers are, Lord Meng. And you too. I mean...'

> What do/say now, Hongyang?
> You feel like you ought to sleep soon...

>>28027473

Never mind side action - have you seen some of the gay porn? There's side, rear, front, above, below action.

No, the Chinese are as much a bunch of horny bastards as are any other civilisation in the world. How did you think there came to be a billion and a half of us?

Rolled 62

>>28027492
>> You feel like you ought to sleep soon...
Lets not push this further.

>>28027507
>How did you think there came to be a billion and a half of us?
Secret cloning program? Tiger genitalia potion? Sorcery? Aliens?

>>28027492
>What heroes all of the soldiers are, Lord Meng.
Better not let them near her, or she'll quickly be dispelled of that notion.

>>28027492
"Don't worry, I knew what you meant."

Say good night and get ready for the expedition.

>>28027492
>> You feel like you ought to sleep soon...

>>28027473
>Romance of the Three Kingdoms
Unfilial exploitation pulp.
>Journey to the West
Comic book tier garbage.
>Tales of the Water Margin
Openly treasonous, enjoy your cangue you fucking bandit sympathizer.
>Tales of the Red Chamber
Hard core pornography.

>>28027632
>Three Kingdoms
>Liu Bei is the hero, and is psychotically devoted to the restoration of his family
>Unfilial
Come again?

>>28027656
What you read was satire, darling Anon. Try not to get so mad at jokes.

File: 1383182361877.gif-(2.26 MB, 290x160, FuckYouBaby.gif)

2.26 MB GIF

>>28027656
I never get to use this gif!

>>28027656
You're taking issue with his description of Rot3K, but not Journey to the West?

>>28027541
>>28027543
>>28027555
>>28027577

'Heroes, I suppose, yes,' you say a little absently. The elite forces are a little more disciplined, you suppose, but you really wouldn't call the normal soldiery 'heroes'. Unless you have a whip close at hand, of course. Then they can be quite heroic. 'I know what you mean. Thank you.'

'I wish there was something I could do to help you in any way, Lord Meng,' Xin'nu's voice is a little dry as she fishes in her sleeve, which rides up to reveal her wrist. 'I... I made something for you.'

She finally fishes it out, and lays it on her lap so you can see what it is. Huh! A lovely pair of roses, embroidered on a white silk handkerchief. Lovely stuff. As you lean over to take it from her lap, you can again smell her scent, sweat and perfume and something natural and womanly.

'This is all my skills allow,' she says, squeaking. Then she gets ready to stand up. 'I'm sorry, Lord Meng, to disturb your sleep...'

> What do/say, Hongyang? This *is* quite a nice handkerchief. And fine silk, too.

>>28027676
Although I think they actually did outlaw Water Margin for a while.

>>28027676
I'm not mad (I don't even like Liu Bei), I just don't know where that one came from.
>>28027696
Journey to the West IS pretty comic-book. Doesn't make it bad, though.
>>28027689
Filial piety includes absolutely no obligation toward your children. (He's still a dick.)

File: 1383182691035.jpg-(328 KB, 374x800, jason_tripitikas.jpg)

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>>28027696
I could never understand why there was a white kid in it.

>>28027713
Tell her how much we value having people who we can be ourselves around, instead of a brother, or a son, or a prince.