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> Previous threads: http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/archive.html?tags=Retainer%20Quest

'Driving the Six Dragons,
I shall ride along with the wind;
I shall traverse the four seas,
And crisscross the eight directions.'

-- Cao Cao (155 - 220)

That poem, for some reason, comes to mind as your flagship - a veritable fortress on a hull with three trebuchets and several grand crossbows - slips its moorings and jerks free of all ties to land, drifting on as the punters and oarsmen rush to ready themselves for rowing. The military harbour of Xingwangfu has been completely rebuilt over the last five or six years, taking advantage of the period of peace; and now it feels as if the whole great complex, with its docks and moors and sturdy piers, was built specially to launch your endeavour.

Now now, Hongyang, let's not get ahead of yourself. You're just at the head of a group of maybe 5,000 now. There'll be more, once Wenxun uses his Jade Tiger; but not until then.

Emerging from the harbour, surrounded and led by the ram-ships, the flagship then turns to port and sails down the last stretch of the Pearl River before it emerges between Zhongshan and Lanna Islands into the South Sea itself. The whole place is thronged with people watching the spectacle of an expedition; plenty of womenfolk waving, as well as general onlookers.

'Feels grand, doesn't it?' Wenxun says, coming up beside you. You turn to see that he's got his armour on already - a lamellar breastplate and a helmet, wrapped with blue robes. 'I wonder if Annamese spies are among that crowd, to be honest. I had a mind to request that we set off at night, but Father refused. Which is understandable, I guess.'

Oh yeah. That's a worrying thought. If the Annamese are on to you this early on, they would have plenty of time to get ready for you...

> cont'd.
>>
>>28190907

'I was wondering if we should gather the troops at Hainan and Leizhou at all actually, Wenxun,' you say softly, turning to him. 'After all, those troops are optional, are they not?'

'But if the Annamese know of our arrival - assuming the worst - they will have thousands gathered against us. We would do very well to bolster our numbers.'

'It's a bit of a gamble,' you nod, leaving the rest unsaid. All war is a gamble. That much is obvious. Just as you consider other crucial variables you need to tweak, a deck officer rushes up to you and salutes.

'Your Highness. Sir. The officers and troops of the ram ships are requesting authorisation for us to loose a whistling arrow, and for them to carry out a military salute.'

'A what?' Wenxun frowns. 'But there's nothing to salute here. Those are rabble.'

'Yes, Your Highness. But the officers and troops say it would hearten their men and the populace.'

Huh. That's technically not in regulations, though it is the sort of infringement only a stickler for drill would really mind - or even know about. You know the King authorises salutes all the time. But then he's the King, and neither of you are. That's the point, you know, of being a bloody King.

'Your Highness, Sir, request instructions forthwith. Soon we will be sailing past Xingwangfu entirely.'

> Authorise the military salute. What heartens the men strengthens the endeavour.
> Do not authorise it. Discipline is key; you can't relax too much.
> Other.

> Fleet update: incoming.
>>
>>28190941

> Fleet update:

> 5,000 Marines.
> 3 Floating Forts, 15 Ram ships, assorted smaller war-junks and ships.
> Supplies for 3 months.

> Flask of finest Erguotou in your backpack: filled, and unconsumed. (First sip at first victory, hopefully!)
>>
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Oh boy, it's Dirty Chinese Politics quest!

If only I weren't going to sleep.
>>
>>28191000

> Timezones are suffering.
> Glad you like it though, it should still be around when you get up. (Hopefully.)
>>
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>>28191000
>>
>>28190941

> Authorise the military salute. What heartens the men strengthens the endeavour.

We have royal favour, it shouldn't be too big a problem. Morale is important.
>>
>>28190941
>Authorise it.
We'll be running this place inside two years anyway, might as well get used to it.
>>
>>28190941
>Authorise the military salute. What heartens the men strengthens the endeavour.
>>
>>28190941

>Authorise the military salute. What heartens the men strengthens the endeavour.
>>
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>>28191223
>>28191184
>>28191059
>>28191033

> Sorry, fucked off for dinner.

Wenxun glances at you. 'What do you think then, Hongyang? This isn't too seriously against the rules, is it?'

From that question alone you know your answer is the same as his, and smile. 'You just want me to give the order then, eh? Officer, authorise the salute. Be quick!'

'Thank you sir, thank you, Your Highness!' The officer dashes off downstairs, and within a minute you hear a loud, whining whistle as the arrow is loosed towards the water. The sound is almost immediately drowned out by a roar, as the battle drums begin to thunder and the spears and halberds are raised in salute.

As the corresponding roar comes from the coast and the thousands of onlookers, Wenxun grins at you. 'Right response. Well, if anything goes wrong, you're responsible, eh?'

'Ah, Wenxun, already pushing things around...'

Seriously, though, there are many things to consider just this first few days. At least the winds, coming in from the northeast, are generally favourable; once you are out at sea, you will be at Leizhou quickly. It occurs to you that you might not want to eat the food stored on your ships now, while you have other options. But then it's also good to get to Leizhou, and reinforcements, post-haste...

> Take the long route, focus on resupply: follow the coast, stopping at Shangchuan Island, Enzhou and Zhanjiang before arriving at the Leizhou Naval Garrison.
> Take the direct route: turn to starboard at the Pearl River Delta, and go straight for Leizhou.
> Take the directest route: skip Leizhou entirely; their garrison can come at meet you after you cross the straits of Qiongzhou and arrive at northern Hainan, in a striking position.

> Map guide: Hainan is the big, egg shaped island; Leizhou is on the peninsula towards Hainan, and the Qiongzhou Straits are between them.
>>
>>28191327
>Take the direct route: turn to starboard at the Pearl River Delta, and go straight for Leizhou.

We'll be able to resupply from there.
>>
>>28191327

> Go past the straits, meet at Hainan.

Speed is the best thing in the military. If there are spies at the capital, they won't know the fleets elsewhere joining our expedition. We can retain surprise.
>>
>>28191361
>>28191401

Tie here: direct vs. directest.

Anyone interested in breaking tie?

Meanwhile, it would also be worthwhile to consider what the campaign aims for now ought to be. Of course, in the long run, you aim to ravage the coast. But this coast is protected - by fortifications, as well as by Chen Tingji's formidable fleet.

So what ought you do?

> Roam the sea, attacking opportunistically.
> Attack an island or coastal base, to create as secure a hold as possible.
> Seek and destroy Chen Tingji's fleet as the first priority.
> Other (Write-in)
>>
>>28191479

Direct route.

>Attack an island or coastal base, to create as secure a hold as possible.
Don't we have intel about that supposed-to-be-empty fortress from the refugee guy? Thought that was our first aim to get to?
>>
>>28191524
>>28191401
>>28191361

The direct approach to Leizhou - well, that is not a particularly risky move, certainly. You'll bypass the fishing hamlets, of course, but then you do have 3 months' worth of supply, and after all Leizhou has a considerable naval presence and resupply should not be an issue.

You're more worried about what comes *after*. Ravaged by war, the area on the west of the Leizhou Peninsula up to the border of Annam is not particularly productive, and Hainan is rich and warm but not very densely populated. Still, you have to take some risks for speed...

> Roll 2d100 - one for the wind, and one for Leizhou.
> Seeing as the seasonal winds are generally favourable, you get a +20 bonus. But take note that strength is not always success...
>>
Rolled 68, 79 = 147

>>28191581

May the Dicegod be favorable to our cause.
>>
Rolled 44, 79 = 123

>>28191581

Winds and Leizhou!
>>
Rolled 67, 33 = 100

>>28191581
>>28191581
From the depths of the abyss I call theeā€¦
>>
>>28191677
>>28191658
>>28191604

> 68, 79: successes both!
> Double 79s: Glorious success!

As the ships sail past gawping villages and you begin to hear the thumping and thrashing of actual waves, Wenxun - who had gone below decks shortly after discussing the strategies with you - comes back up.

'So. We sail for Leizhou, and then round the straits and race for that island - what's it called?'

'Phoenix Island, i think?' The sea-charts provided on your ship, unfortunately, only show a coastal periplus, pointing out which destinations would be near where if you hopped along the coast. Still, seeing as Phoenix Island is just four major hops from the known border fort at Jing Island, you should be able to chart its general direction. Just then Wenxun passes you a small square of silk, embroidered with gold. 'Eh?'

'A token of fortune. From the Wind Goddess temple. Go on.' He shows you his own, tied to his wrist. Well, you do need every bit of luck at sea...

Thankfully, the Wind Goddess turns out to be a nice lady who speeds you along. For the first two days she also brings clouds and the occasional shower, but it's nothing serious - in fact, even an excuse for the soldiers to do a little ersatz cleaning up. Anyway, it could be a lot worse, so you keep your mouth well shut.

At this rate, you figure you should be able to reach Leizhou in no more than a day and a half. Certainly you are in the open sea now - the waves gentle but powerful, not splashing on your ships but lifting and dropping them. Great as a floating fort is, it is but a mere fragment of a maple leaf in the sea...

'We haven't actually seen these men in action, come think of it,' Wenxun says on the second morning, carefully nursing his tea. 'They look sprightly enough, but...'

> Commence exercises. (You can choose up to two of the following: Ranged Combat, Boarding, Sailing Manoeuvres, Cleaning the decks, General equipment inspection, or Write-in).
> Nah. Why bother? We can do that at Leizhou.
>>
>>28191769

> Ranged Combat
> Boarding

Maybe later we should try a landing exercise too.
>>
>>28191769

Ranged Combat and Sailing Manoeuvres. Sounds like a good base for a hit and run tactic?

What was it about that Chen Tingji? He is mistrusted by his king and the navy is poorly supplied, right? Did we talk about trying to make him change sides, or do we want to kill him?
>>
>>28191883

> Chen Tingji is mistrusted by the King now that his position is secure, and the navy is indeed poorly supplied. The poverty in turn forces them to scatter and raid for sustenance.

> You have managed to obtain a stay of execution for Chen Tingji provided he surrenders and changes his allegiance to Southern Han; if he proves to be disloyal, your life is forfeit.

> Also, right, I'm actually going to be about now. Quite tired and jet lag is wrecking me. I'll run this for a bit tomorrow (Asia time) if this is still here.
>>
>>28192000

> Going to bed, even.
>>
>>28191883

Second this one. Those are important things anyway.

What range combat weapons do we have?
>>
>>28191875
>>28191883
>>28192270

Anyway, now that we have some votes:

> Roll d100 for each of the two options.
>>
Rolled 99, 55 = 154

>>28192538
>>
Rolled 39, 12 = 51

>>28192538
>>
Rolled 14, 68 = 82

>>28192538
>>
>>28190907
>Retainer quest back.
Fuckballs I'm at IKEA keep the quest warm for me.
>>
>>28193896
This quest tends to stay up all day, assuming we bump every hour or two.
>>
>>28192577
>Just fucking great at ranged attacking
>So-so at boarding actions.
>>
>>28194584
If we're lucky the double doubles make both rolls be crazy good.
>>
Rolled 62, 50 = 112

>>28192538
>>
Rolled 66, 56 = 122

>>28192538
>>
>>28195075
And hilariously, the post was also double lucky 7's.
>>
Rolled 55, 60 = 115

>>28192538
>>28192538
>>
> Thanks people! It's good to be back. I'll play where I can and tell you if/when I'm disappearing. Errands are suffering.

> 99, 55: GREAT SUCCESS and ambiguity.
> Roll another d100 for the sailing manoeuvres, I'll take an average.

> Meanwhile I'll type.
>>
Rolled 13

>>28200392
Hooray
>>
Rolled 82

>>28200392
>>
>>28200392

It seems clear what needs doing, tactically. If you're going to be facing Chen Tingji's fleet, you will need to leverage the fact that even your ram ships have got traction trebuchets on them, and your fearsome heavy crossbows.

Operating the damned things isn't easy, either. Each trebuchet is basically a single plank with 10 ropes attached to one end, and a sling on the other. The men load up the sling, tie it up (correctly), and then yank on the rope end, flinging the sling into the air and releasing its load.

Calculating that you need practice more than you need the ammunition - if need be you'll pick up rocks and hew wood from the Annamese islands to make bolts - you get Wenxun to order a day-long exercise in the sea when you are already near Leizhou and approaching Nao Island, at the mouth of the great harbour of Leizhou. With the island as a target, you ready all your ships in formation, and begin the exercise.

> cont'd.
>>
>>28200543

Thankfully, everything goes off without a hitch! Indeed the marines, heartened by the chance to prove their ability, really put their backs into it. As two observation ships sit by to watch the rocks fall, you and Wenxun stay on the flagship, testing out the system of gongs, bells and whistling arrows to signal firings.

'Left ships ready!'

'Ready and loaded, sir!' One of the four adjutants yells.

'Loose!' A great thumping of the drums, and you can hear the men yell as they jump and heave on the rope.

'Typhoon!' They are yelling, summoning the winds to their aid. Almost like a curse, come think of it. 'Typhoon! Typhoon!'

The exercise goes so well, in fact, that you have time to focus on practicing certain techniques in the afternoon. You may choose one of the below.

> Fish-scales formation: advancing in close order, your ships can rain stone and bolts in all directions.
> Chariot-wheel formation: your ships run in a circle, keeping up a deadly hail on a single target area.
> Thunder formation: your ships arrange in a simple line, and fire devastating, coordinated volleys.

> Sailing next! keep rolling.
>>
Rolled 42

>>28200559
>Fish-scales formation: advancing in close order, your ships can rain stone and bolts in all directions.

and my roll
>>
Rolled 55

>>28200559
> Thunder formation: your ships arrange in a simple line, and fire devastating, coordinated volleys.
>>
Rolled 100

>>28200559
>> Fish-scales formation: advancing in close order, your ships can rain stone and bolts in all directions.
>>
Rolled 42

>>28200559
>> Fish-scales formation: advancing in close order, your ships can rain stone and bolts in all directions.
>>
>>28200559
>> Fish-scales formation: advancing in close order, your ships can rain stone and bolts in all directions.

Not even going to roll after that >>28200644
>>
>>28200644
Aw yeah. That's the stuff.
>>
Rolled 90

>>28200392
>>
>>28200644

> Bloody hell! 100: awesome success.

> Fish scale formation: basics learned!

At the end of the day, as the banners are finally straightened and the signals given to sail in formation into Leizhou Bay, Wenxun sits down - he's been on his feet the entire day, like you - and grins. 'I think we did pretty well. Just like with the sailing.'

'That went well too, didn't it?' Can't believe that was just yesterday, given how calm today is. The Sea really changes from day to day, hour to hour.

Guo Xuyou was yesterday's hero without any doubt. Originally, seeing that the winds were good, Wenxun had ordered a sailing exercise in the morning, which also went on without a hitch. The sailors had a great feel for the gradations of wind speed, adjusting the sail cloth batten by batten while you coordinated the oarmen. But the morning was barely half over when the wind rose from fresh breeze into gale, and by noon you could hardly stand on the bloody topdeck.

> cont'd.
>>
>>28200559
>> Chariot-wheel formation: your ships run in a circle, keeping up a deadly hail on a single target area.
>>
>>28201170

'It's a storm!'

'Maintain formation!' You wave the shield men trying to protect you from the lashing rain. 'Ride the wind west! Keep in formation!'

A lesser fleet might well have scattered, or become split; but Guo Xuyou, in the vanguard, seemed to be everywhere that afternoon. Between your banners and his, the ships managed to all rally and keep close and in formation, so that when the storm finally passes, you take stock and see that only two small boats have been sunk.

More amazingly, everyone is alive; Guo Xuyou's ships saved those thrown overboard.

> What did you do/say to Guo?

Also, you can also learn a new sailing manoeuvre:

> Swift column: more for travel than for battle, you focus on streamlining the formations to sail from place to place quickly.
> Turn in sequence: a risky manoeuvre that allows you to maintain formation in the thick of battle.
> Crane-wing formation: Requiring great coordination, this is one means to break enemy columns by splitting them.
> Heron formation: A coordinated charge by your ram-ships, this allows you to keep your forts from battle while maintaining offensive.
>>
Rolled 72

>>28201227
>> Crane-wing formation: Requiring great coordination, this is one means to break enemy columns by splitting them.
>>
>>28201227
>What did you do/say to Guo?
"remind me why you haven't been promoted again?"

>Heron formation: A coordinated charge by your ram-ships, this allows you to keep your forts from battle while maintaining offensive.
>>
Rolled 29

>>28201227
> What did you do/say to Guo?
Praise him for his great work.

> Crane-wing formation: Requiring great coordination, this is one means to break enemy columns by splitting them.
>>
>>28201227
>> Crane-wing formation: Requiring great coordination, this is one means to break enemy columns by splitting them.
>>
Rolled 82

>>28201227
Congratulate Guo on his fine leadership and saving of the men.

> Crane-wing formation: Requiring great coordination, this is one means to break enemy columns by splitting them.
>>
>>28201280

Let's not say that though. Politics may make him bitter.

Unless we intended that.
>>
>>28201338
we are going to promote him, assuming a successful endeavor. I think it would reinforce his loyalty to us, and by extension bro-prince
>>
>>28201359
>>28201247
>>28201280
>>28201282
>>28201294
>>28201306
>>28201338

> Crane-wing formation: basics learned!

Wenxun summoned Guo to the flagship, and once the man is winched up, he is immediately brought to the tower where you stand beside the Prince. 'Your Highness. Lord Meng.'

'Well done you, Guo Xuyou! Good manoeuvring, and well-led from the front. And best of all, you managed to pluck those people out of the water. I just wonder why a man like you has not been promoted.'

You blink when he says that. Both of you know quite well why Guo Xuyou was not promoted - namely, his views on what the navy should be doing. Guo, too, looks lost for words, and it's a few moments before he salutes.

'Your Highness, if your humble general might earn a promotion serving you, it would be double the honour and pleasure!' He kneels. 'Thank you, Your Highness.'

You smile to yourself. Hopefully this will make Guo Xuyou more part of your... clique. Is clique too dangerous a word? But then, what with Wenxian building up his own powerbase in the capital, and with the Second Prince being just a little too relaxed in that respect, you do need all the support that's available.

> cont'd.
>>
>>28201451

'Oi, Hongyang!' Wenxun nudges you out of your little reverie and many concerns about cliques and powergrabbing and naval tactics. 'We're almost there.'

So you are! The birds around you are no longer fulmars and skuas, but gulls - a sure sign you are close to the shore. It isn't long before land comes into view, which is greeted with a cheer by your sailors. Competent as they are, they're always glad to be away from the open sea; your order did make them a little chary, but well, you got lucky.

The commander of Leizhou Garrison, you learned in advance, is Chen Fan. It is his history as a veteran of several previous wars which landed him this commanding position, though you know he is a pretty undistinguished character.

He has, however, sent out several ships to escort and possibly impress you. If that's his intention... it doesn't work. Even when you tell your oarsmen to ease up, your own ram-ships easily outpace the escorts.

'If those are the ships we're commanding...' you mutter.

'You're thinking what I'm thinking then,' Wenxun sighs.

You are, of course, received into harbour by Chen Fan himself. 'Your Highness! Lord Meng! Your humble general has been awaiting this for a long time. A proper campaign! Please, if you have any instructions...'

> Have a private conversation with Chen Fan.
> Ask to inspect the naval troops.
> Let yourself and your men have a day off; Leizhou looks like a nice place.
> Get what you need and get out. (You may requisition supplies, ships, troops, or all. Say what you need; Chen Fan will respond.)
> Other.
>>
Rolled 91

>>28201518
>> Let yourself and your men have a day off; Leizhou looks like a nice place.
>>
>>28201518
>Let yourself and your men have a day off; Leizhou looks like a nice place.
>>
Rolled 60

>>28201518
>> Ask to inspect the naval troops.
Lets show some interest in our...err...the lord's troop.
>>
>>28201599

This. Then we see if we take them.
>>
>>28201518
Let "our" men have a day off and we shall inspect the other navel troops.
>>
>>28201728
>>28201676
>>28201599
>>28201588
>>28201574

> If a man inspects navel troops, is he navel-gazing?
> Okay, okay, stop hitting me!

You've been through this with your brother, of course, so Wenxun's content to let you do the talking. 'Sir, His Highness possesses, as you know, the Jade Tiger token.'

'I am well aware of that, sir.'

'We would therefore like to inspect the naval troops of Leizhou's naval garrison, so we know what we're requisitioning.'

'I...' Chen Fan's face no longer looks so confident, all of a sudden. But he nods, because he doesn't have a bloody choice does he? 'I will see to that, sir. They will be ready for inspection by tomorrow morning.'

Already an alarming sign, seeing as you've arrived in the mid-afternoon. 'And as for the crew and men, we will with your permission allow them a day off. It's been a bit of hard sailing.'

'Certainly, sir!' He nods at that too. 'Certainly. Would Your Highness and Lord Meng honour us by being present at our feast this evening?'

So much for inspecting and leaving quickly... then again, you could do with food.

> Do anything between now and the feast?
> Also, say anything to the troops before you loose them on Leizhou?
>>
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>>28202040
>If a man inspects navel troops, is he navel-gazing?
>>
Rolled 92

>>28202040
>> Do anything between now and the feast?
Nothing I can think of.
>> Also, say anything to the troops before you loose them on Leizhou?

Praise them on the great skill we saw on the journey down and tell them we expect that when we enter battle, we shall sweep the enemy away if the keep it up.
>>
>>28202040

> Be strict asshole

Tell the men to watch themselves. Go around in groups, and if someone messes up, the whole group is responsible.
>>
Rolled 22

>>28202040
> Do anything between now and the feast?

Check the status of our supplies.

Ask some of our trusted officers to mingle with Chen Fan's men to gather informations about their morale and readiness.
>>
>>28202276
>>28202197
>>28202186

Wenxun says he's got some business to settle, to negotiate for supplies, which leaves you free for the moment. Well, looks like the army is yours to handle for now.

You gather the officers and leading seamen, about 300 men, and talk to them before letting the men off for an evening in Leizhou. 'I want you to tell your men that they have proven their bravery and skill over the last three days of sailing. We are heartened to have such a hard fighting force at our command; if they keep it up, we have nothing to fear from the Annamese.'

The cheering is about to begin, but you forestall it. 'But only if they keep it up. That includes discipline. If we cannot trust them to conduct themselves properly in a home territory, we are sure they will mess things up on campaign. I want all sailors and marines on their best behaviour in Leizhou. They are to travel in groups of 5 or 10, and if I hear of a crime, the whole group is responsible - one for conduct, and the others for allowing him.'

That quietens the group down as you let them off. You gather a few senior officers and tell them to mix with Chen Fan's men and check on them.

And then you take a nap, because bloody hell you haven't slept well at sea. But your little rest is interrupted by the sounds of... is that a flute? You sit up and look out of your room's back window, over the naval base's courtyard. Sure enough there's a man sitting there, blowing his flute and tapping along with his foot.

> Oi, keep it down! Someone's sleeping!
> Ignore.
> Investigate.
> Other.
>>
Rolled 66

>>28202390
> Investigate

I have a gut feeling telling me that he's a person worthy of interest.
>>
Rolled 41

>>28202390
>> Investigate.
>>
>>28202390
>> Investigate.
We may find a person of great skill.
>>
>>28202390
> Investigate.

Like we would pass up the chance.
>>
Rolled 81

>>28202497
Its like when one of the choice is the "the mystery box".

I swear /tg/, our curiosity will have us killed soon.
>>
>>28202515
You mean it hasn't already?
>>
Rolled 60

>>28202531
Not in this thread yet.
>>
>>28202537
I'll give you that at least.
>>
>>28202390

You're about to yell at the man to keep it down, when it suddenly occurs to you that he's *inside* the naval base yard. A musician in a military base? Not very likely.

Something's interesting, and your Cao Cao senses are tingling. You are, it seems, a bit of a History of the Three Kingdoms fan anyway. Throwing on your cloak, you go downstairs to see him still sitting there, playing a simple 8 note tune. When he sees you, he puts his flute down.

'Good day, sir. Is anything the matter?'

'I heard you play the flute from upstairs,' you say.

'I wasn't aware anyone was upstairs. I hope I haven't disturbed you.' He gets to his feet. 'I am Lian Pi. And you are...'

Lian Pi? You think you've heard this name before. Anyway, the surname sounds very northern...

> Introduce yourself to impress. (Lord Meng)
> Introduce simply. (Meng Hongyang)

> What would you like to talk about?
>>
>>28202809
>Introduce simply. (Meng Hongyang)
>>
Rolled 98

>>28202809
>> Introduce simply. (Meng Hongyang)
"So, what's a musician doing in a naval base?"
>>
>>28202809

> Do begin to steer the conversation, if you wish. We could get the thing moving quicker this way. Of course, that's if you'd like to steer the conversation.
>>
>>28202809
>> Introduce simply. (Meng Hongyang)
>>
Rolled 87

>>28202809
>> Introduce simply. (Meng Hongyang)
Remark how unusual it is to hear a musician on a naval base.
>>
>>28202866
>>28202860
>>28202843

> Right. I'll be off to run errands now, and might be a few hours. But I'll continue this as and when possible.
> Take care, you people!

'I am Meng Hongyang,' you say, deciding to eschew the titles. Not like you really have titles, in any case; and this is not Xingwangfu where you and your father are known. To your surprise, though, Lian turns out to know who you are.

'*That* Meng? Lord Meng?' He salutes you, hands together. 'Ah, to think I'm blind enough not to recognise you, sir! I've been in Xingwangfu a year or so, before.'

'I see, I see.' It's a little strange - the man is well built and strong, and doesn't really look like a musician. Indeed, the flute looks rather tiny and thin in his hands. But certainly he is dextrous enough, even if his tune is not one you've heard before. 'So, are you perhaps a naval officer or a musician who's a little lost?'

He chuckles. 'Neither, sir, neither. I am a retainer in Admiral Chen's service. Help him with household duties, and making sure the garrison is in order.' Then, after a little pause, 'the latter, especially, is quite a bit of work.'

'Oh? But the garrison looks to be in order.' You lay the lure. This is a good time to know, and Lian Pi sees your interest. He... you must say, he doesn't look like a southerner at all. Northern Chinese? Maybe even farther north, like those Khitan of the new, upstart Liao 'Dynasty'?

'Haha, are you trying to wheedle secrets out of me, sir?' He grins. 'Well. Suffice to say that Admiral Chen is... not too interested in the garrison, I suppose. So a lot of work goes to the retainers. It's new to me, to be honest. Up north, the rulers are expected to be... rather vigorous, if you know what I mean.'

Aha, so you were right. The thought of that marriage thing, of the Northern Dynasties and the potentials of an alliance, come to mind again...

> What do/say, Hongyang?
> Votes will be noted, of course!
>>
>>28203104

Incidentally, the reason you had to look Lian Pi over to figure he's a northerner is because he's got his accent down pat. The usual tell-tale signs of a northern dialect, like not ending words properly in consonants and messing up the tones - he's got none of those issues.

This man is a skilled linguist, or he's been around in these parts a long time...
>>
Rolled 94

>>28203104
> What do/say, Hongyang?

We could ask him what the Admiral Chen is actually interested in.
>>
>>28203104
Ask him if he knows of the beautiful northern princess that has pale skin.
>>
>>28203153
Agreed. Certainly be good to know what others think of him and what he enjoys. There's also the fact he seems a bit.. lackadaisy as well. For a veteran, he didn't seem to realize how important speed is when it comes to this sort of thing.
>>
Goddamn I love this quest. We should make some subtle inquires about him. Check to see if he's worth recruiting and all.
>>
>>28205516
If I were to hazard a guess: The old general is pretty much a 'I've been here for a while and thats why I am in charge.' sort. His retainers though? Lian Pi looks capable on several fields. Both physical and social.. maybe even mental as well. There may be others but if he was the one who organized the troops here and he did a good job.. he is definitely a asset we want.
>>
There is also the possibility that he's not actually all that competent but has political reasons to need a military rank, which would explain why he's attached to soldiers that weren't expecting to see combat (made obvious by the fact that we were met with unimpressive ships and that the admiral wasn't expecting us to see the troops).
We will have time to find out how competent this guy is throughout the campaign so no need to rush.
>>
>>28206169
So in short.. we might have either real green troops, ulcer brigades, bad officers, or a combo... might be a good idea to ask Lian Pi for his honest opinion on what we should expect tomorrow. This could be trouble.
>>
>>28206517
He's not going to be unbiased. He did say he and his fellow retainers were responsible for training them so he will play up the troops he was responsible for and play down the rest so he can get respect though being put in the better positions on the battlefield.
There's no information we can get here that we won't get better tomorrow, so it's probably better if we try and get this guy's measure or just keep it to smalltalk.
>>
>>28206734
Perhaps, but is that not a good way to test his character? We will be doing a thorough inspection anyways and considering he was probably told to move it with the prep, lying and trying to plump up his own men would be detrimental. If he's honest however, then he either is an honest man, an unbiased man or a wise enough man to not brag when he has nothing to brag about. All of them are good traits.

In short, if he is going to be of any use for our core, we need honest men as well as skilled men.
>>
>>28206921
I hadn't thought of it that way; a test of character we can hide as way to highlight any major flaws in the troops we might miss tomorrow definitely works in our favor here and even if it gets spotted it should give us a reputation for being crafty.
>>
>>28203104

> Dear god it's still here, awesome!
> I'm reading your posts now and will be typing once my brain is back up to speed.
>>
>>28207743

You nod slowly, mulling things over, and Lian Pi keeps the flute in the meantime. 'And Lord Meng? If I may ask, why have you come to the naval garrison here?'

Eh? How would a retainer to Chen Fan not know that he's facing a rather major test and inspection of his troops? Or perhaps Lian is merely acting, trying to probe you as well. Come think of it, the very emptiness of this place seems a little suspicious now. Are the naval officers from the garrison all elsewhere as well?

> Give the true purpose of your trip. Keep in mind he's a northerner...
> Come up with something else. (Write-in.)
> Evade question, ask about princess or something else.
> Other.
>>
>>28207842
Hmm, If he doesn't know then he might be a spy. This would also explain how he didn't recognize us, which he should have if he is the admiral's retainer as he says. Now that I think about it the whole situation does feel a little like a setup, since he's not actually given us any reason to believe he is who he says he is, and he basically drew us to him by playing music in a unusual place which could mean he's an assassin trying to get s to lower our guard.
Either way, with his surprising lack of knowledge he's just got less trustworthy so I'm thinking a lie along the lines of the a surprise inspection which would explain our actions without giving any knowledge of the campaign away.
>>
>>28207842

We should probably just ask about the princess. If he knows a lot about the princess, but not much about what we're doing, he could be a spy.
>>
>>28208102
Please assume that (if he's a spy) he's at least a little bit competent. He's not going to just give us information because we ask him. He'll be acting a part after all.

Besides, he just asked us a question and ignoring it is incredibly rude, but we don't want to give too much information away.
>>
>>28207842
Inform him that it Leizhou is the first in a series of inspections of the Royal naval bases. Its not an outright lie since the areas we'll raid we'll be "inspecting" as well.

If he is worth his salt he will realize that what we did was to preserve the goal of the mission. If we do end up taking this lot with us we'll have plenty of time to sooth his ruffled feathers (if he still has any.)
>>
>>28208153
>>28208102
>>28208077

> Damn, looks like I'm back a little too late. Again.

To be sure, this isn't necessarily an unusual place to play music. If he is the retainer - *if*, of course - then this is a usual place for him to do anything. Still, you're not about to give everything away to Lian Pi. If he should know, it ought at least to be via his commander.

'Well. We are undertaking an inspection of the naval garrison. You will agree that it is good to know everything's in working order.' You decide it's best not to talk about Wenxun as well.

'I see...' Lian looks around. 'Perhaps you have come specifically to inspect Leizhou first, then?'

If he knows your real purpose, he really isn't letting on. 'Yes. We came directly here. I'm intrigued about Chen Fan, though,' you say, deliberately using his full name as if to boost your authority. 'I'm also intrigued about how long you've been south, seeing as you're from up north. Is it still terribly chaotic there?'

'Oh, it has gotten somewhat better. Order always rises from chaos, somehow.' Lian smiles, and gestures for you to walk around the park, towards a pine tree. No one's hiding there, at least you're sure of that. 'Admiral Chen is, if I might say, a little... lax with his soldiers. Lenient. Of course, this means they love him. But sometimes that is not the best measure of an army.'

Hmm. This is somewhat as you thought, then...

'As for how long I've been down south, I've never been south for any long amount of time. Sometimes I do return to the north - my family is there, after all, in the Jin lands. In fact I returned to the retinue just two months ago. At least it was not in a mess!'

He must know about the engagement thing, then.

> What do/say, Meng Hongyang?
>>
>>28208328

Hmm. Let's ask about the princess. What is the political situation up north? Are they urgently trying to get a marriage for some reason?
>>
>>28209032

Seconding this.

Then ask if he has been a retainer here for long. Maybe he wouldn't mind being someone else's retainer...
>>
bump
>>
Rolled 25

>>28208328
>>28209032
thirding but ask about his personal opinion of the prinsesse. But we should ask about the well being of his family and where or not its hard to keep in touch
- i think he is a part of the same spy ring that xin'nu belongs to. If we had her hankercheif we could have shown it to him and proved that we know her. he and therefore the commander is corrupt
>>
Rolled 44

keeping thread alive
>>
Just a thought but we may have to spend some time training the garrison to bring them up to the level of our current men . Also I think we should get some fortifications experts to work on the fort on Phoenix island
>>
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Wow thread is still here. Gotta say your polyphasic questing style is... unusual... OP but it seems to be working out.

>>28208328
Discuss the finer points of princessing and Northern politics. Try to sound out what he actually does here using our gentlemanly cunning.

>>28213878
> same spy ring that xin'nu belongs to
Wait... what the hell did I miss. Xin'nu is a spy?

>>28218062
>Muh Walls
Spoken like a true Chinese dynast. Since we probably don't have the manpower or skill to beat the Annamese navy in the field a strong fallback position would be good. We can raid and retreat as needed. And if they choose to attack we'll have both a hammer and an anvil to crush them between. Also seeing as how we divinely gifted artillerymen and archers might we put some thought into planning for fire attacks, or other specialty munitions? It seems like our best bet is to show up, siege weakly defended outposts until they collapse. Loot and burn everything, then move on. Once their morale is low and their defenses are compromised we can pick a decisive battle. We just need to make sure our supplies hold out....
>>
>>28218458
While I do agree that is a good idea, for the current scenario it won't be ideal. We want to get the admiral to join us along with his navy to bolster our forces. Heavy destructive tactics would be hazardous for that. However, we could use the archers and such as a means to trap them. As far as we know, they have no back up whatsoever. What they have on board is what they likely have, so I have a plan.

When the time comes, we use the archers and long range units to separate a ship from their fleet. We raid the separated ship, capture the ship, it's crew, and the supplies.. only to float back the ship and crew back empty of supplies. We treat the prisoners well before we float them back, letting the admiral know, keep their supplies to not only keep ourselves stocked, but to lessen their own limited amount.

If we use this sort of tactic with hit and run style combat, we can maximize our gains when we capture their fleet. Any army marches on their stomach and their stomachs are already half empty.
>>
>>28219237
Would that we had known our fleet's strength before planning the campaign things would have been easier, but here we are. I suppose we should limit sieges as a tool for forcing the Annamese navy to a fight.
>>
>>28219237
I personally think that trying to capture ships that way may be very tough
we should look it back up plans
>>
>>28218458
>>28219237
>>28219539

> Yeah, I know it isn't particularly ideal. I'd rather a single burst of questing too, but life gets in the way.
> Still, glad you guys are sticking around.

In terms of fleet strength, you have 3 fort ships and 15 ram ships currently, along with a group of supply and transport ships; and your battle force is about 5,000 well trained marines.

And as Sun Zi said, you have to know yourself and your enemy to never be at peril in any battle; but unfortunately you only know enough for a 50-50 chance. Chen Tingji's fleet has been estimated to have between 20,000 (lowest) to 50,000 (highest) marines. Still, you know very well - as does Tingji himself - that his fleet, large as it might be, has the entire Annamese coast as its responsibility.

You just have to choose a good point to strike, in order to win.
>>
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>>28209032
>>28210179
>>28213878

'If you've been up north recently, Lian Pi, then maybe you've heard about the Northern court's messages about the marriage of its princess?' You choose the topic deliberately; for now you have no desire to tangle on about Chen Fan's naval troops. You'll see the proof tomorrow, after all, and Lian seems determined not to reveal too much.

The princess, that's a safe topic. And Lian Pi seems to think so too, for he smiles. 'Ah, the Princess Rufang,' he says, and you note the princess's title for formal use. 'Not since the Concubine Yang during Xuanzong's time has there been a more beautiful woman, I'd say.'

That... that's not a great comparison. After all, infatuation with Concubine Yang was one of the main reasons Xuanzong let go of the reins of state, leading to the enormous An-Shi Revolt - and everything since then, well, that's history.

'I hope she's not as much trouble as the concubine was, then,' you say softly.

'Well, there was a prophecy when she was six, sung by their shamans, that were she to grow up safe, her father - who was but a general then - would rise to the highest position.' Lian Pi shakes his head. 'But there was a second part to that prophecy - if she is not married away outside of the north, then her father would not live to pass on the throne at all. Given how superstitious Shi Jingtang is, it's not surprising he would be very grateful to whoever marries her...'

Huh. Well, that could have good political outcomes, and since the southern kingdoms are all technically the vassals of the north, it would be good to remain on the northern emperor's good side...

> Do/say anything more, Hongyang?
> Feast is coming next.
>>
>>28221276
I'd say we seize Phoenix island first and then if possible the group of small islands after that we make them a stronghold for our fleet and begin raiding
>>
>>28221588
Lets go to the feast
>>
Rolled 87

>>28221588
> Feast is coming next.

Bid him a good day and compliment his musical skills before leaving for the feast.
>>
Sounds like a good marriage catch, to be honest.

Ask if he knows whether the princess is in demand, and then thank him and go feast.
>>
>>28221692
>>28221713
>>28221779

As Lian tells you about the prophecy, you notice that it is already very late in the afternoon. Perhaps just one more question, and then you had better head to the feast - early, just to see how the commanding officers here conduct themselves in the presence of Wenxun.

'So, Lian Pi, we had better go to the feast soon,' you interrupt him gently, getting to your feet, and he does too. 'But while we walk - so while her father will have her married, are there many who would marry her?'

'Oh, more than you would know! The Southern Tang have already sent two representations on behalf of two of their princes. Wuyue, I last heard, sent a whole ship full of pearls along with their representation. But there was a catch - the prophecy also said that the Princess had to leave of her own accord, and she did not fancy any of the princes being represented.'

'The pearls no doubt came from us,' you mutter. After all, Hainan is still known poetically as the Pearl Cliffs. 'So the princess herself will need to be impressed.'

'I'm afraid so... are you considering leading a representation, perhaps after the inspection?'

You laugh. Not answering this one! 'If His Highness has such a use for me, I would be glad.'

> cont'd.
>>
>>28221963

It isn't too long before Lian Pi guides you to the feast. Just as you had feared, the tables and implements had all yet to be prepared fully, though the dancers and musicians are already rehearsing and tuning their instruments. Lian Pi takes his leave of you, and you head up towards the upper tables.

Chen Fan isn't here. Some of his officers seem to be, however. Instinctively, you walk to one side, keeping to yourself and also keeping part of the musical ensemble between you and them, watching them...

... what you see isn't particularly encouraging. The officers, while not drunk, are openly talking among themselves about rather unpleasant topics, while pointing at the dancers who must hear them but pretend not to.

'I wonder what's for dinner today? If it's a big official, then there'd be good food, I sure hope!'

'Well, it's the season for crabs, isn't it? We ought to have some garlic crabs... Also, is that girl new?'

'I'm not sure, but we all know you would. And I would too. Look at her hips!'

Psssht.

> Go and mingle. (What do you talk about?)
> Only go when Chen Fan and more guests are here.
> Actually, on second thought, this feast is not worth attending.
> Other.

> What attitude do you wish to take towards Chen Fan? You think you've seen and heard enough to know the Leizhou Garrison is not the best of navies.
>>
Rolled 61

>>28222208
> Only go when Chen Fan and more guests are here.

Lets leave this place. We heard enough.

Lets keep a slightly annoyed and angry attitude toward Chen Fan. He can't keep his garrison in order and he look like a fool.
>>
>>28222208
lets stand back and listen in for a bit and get a feel of the officers until Chen Fan shows up then we should take a friendly but firm attitude towards how he commands
>>
>>28222385
>>28222345

You decide not to show yourself until Chen Fan or Wenxun have arrived. But to your surprise, when one of them does come, it's the admiral.

... Where the hell did Wenxun go? You step up just before Chen Fan spots you sneaking around, bowing a little. 'Admiral.'

'Lord Meng! Why are you here so early?' Except he's here a little late, which is rather worse as infractions go. Hastily, he walks over to where Lian Pi and a few retainers are sitting, and after a little quiet talk they all scatter, no doubt passing on the instructions. Only then does he come to you. 'Please, sir, sit! On to the upper hall!'

The officers are polite enough when you do come, though a little slovenly - and wait, is that a flask of liquor that's already been emptied? Thankfully it seems the retainers are efficient, for once you sit down and Chen Fan gives the order, the music starts and the food comes out.

It's nice to know when you have a better household staff than you have a military staff. Unable to keep it in much longer, you turn to the admiral. 'Admiral Chen, pardon my concern, but I cannot help wondering if the Leizhou Naval Garrison is truly up to the task of going on an expedition. Certainly, in manning fortifications, I have confidence, but...'

'Oh, Lord Meng, please be assured! Tomorrow, when you see the troops on parade, they will be sprightly and courageous like tigers! They have been awaiting action, and merely hope that one day the country will trust its success on them. When that happens - as it is happening now - then they will step up to the task.'

Trust? You wouldn't trust these guys with a sailboat in a strong wind... incidentally, where *is* Wenxun? The dances are becoming a little more vigorous, and you are trying hard to refuse liquor and keep sober...

> Get into the flow of things.
> Remain steadfast. The officers will see that you're refusing drink, though. Not very sociable.
> Leave. Find Wenxun.
> Other.
>>
Rolled 50

>>28222690
>Find Wenxun.
I hope he didn't get himself in troube with his impulsive nature.
>>
>>28222690

> Go with the flow.

Wenxun can take care of himself.
>>
>>28222690
>> Leave. Find Wenxun.
>>
>>28222690
> Get into the flow of things, but pace yourself as to not drink "too" much.
>>
>>28222854
>>28222814

seconding this
>>
>>28222898
>>28222854
>>28222842
>>28222814
>>28222758

As the noise of the feast begins to rise, in proportion with the amount of alcohol being served and the number of serving girls (where on earth did all these girls come from?), you begin to find it difficult to refuse liquor. First it's an officer, and you talk to Chen Fan to ward him off, but then soon a girl is assigned to sit next to you and pour for you.

You have to say, she's pretty in a southern way, with a ready smile and good complexion. A little dark, perhaps, but what can you say? 'My lord, would you like one more?'

'Well...' you have to start somewhere. You take a drink. Right, Wenxun is not here still. You really ought to look for him... but then the dancers begin scattering among the guests, and while you're not about to start fiddling with girls all of a sudden, it becomes harder to shake off two or three people without looking rather prudish - or very rude.

Let's drink a second one, and go talk to Chen Fan about looking for the prince...

> Roll d100 to see how that turns out.
> Alternatively, fuck it, let's sit and enjoy the liquor (and serving girls).
>>
Rolled 95

>>28222954
>>
>>28222991
LIVER OF IRON, WE SHALL NOT SLACK OFF TO AID OUR LORD!
>>
>>28223059
Apparently I should play more Chinese things because I'm the guy who rolled 100 for maneuvering too.
>>
Rolled 36

>>28222954
>> Roll d100 to see how that turns out.
>>
Rolled 23

>>28222954
>>
>>28223101
>>28223117
>>28223124
>>28222991
>>28223059

> 95: Bring on the bloody alcohol, people!

For... you don't actually know how long it was, to be honest, you continue to oblige the serving girls as well as some of the other officers and Chen Fan himself. But, by pacing yourself carefully and secretly pouring some of the liquor away from one flask into another (often Chen Fan's), you manage to remain sober even as the music begins to get rather slow and lascivious - and the behaviour of the officers moves to match.

'Hey...' one of the dancers, practically slumped against you and wriggling about enticingly, spots you pouring the liquor into an officer's earthen flask. 'That... that's che-mmmmph...'

Nothing for it; you pull her up with your other arm and kiss her lips to shut her up, and she reacts positively, throwing her arms around you. It's several moments before you manage to extricate yourself, by which time you notice the officers looking at you a lot more approvingly. Many of them are in pretty compromising positions themselves, but... no, not tonight.

'Admiral Chen,' you say, allowing the dancer to slump across your chest this time, giggling and saying you're pretty rough at kissing. 'I am rather worried about His Highness...'

'Oh, he isn't here! That... that's true!' He glances around, and shakes off a servant. 'Right, right, we must look for him...'

'It's fine, I'll do it myself!' You ease the dancer off you. Then the serving girl. Then - wait, this is an officer! Go away! Then you stumble down the steps, the world trembling and moving around you as you try to keep eyes and feet steady. Eventually you do make it out of the hall, where someone helps you to the residences.

> Go to Wenxun's residence.
> Think of some other way to find him. You haven't a clue where he's gone.
> Actually, you just said that so you could get some sleep. So go get it.
> Other.
>>
>>28223191
>> Go to Wenxun's residence.

It'll give us a starting point at the very least.
>>
>>28223191
go to Wenxun's residence
>>
Rolled 98

>>28223191
> Go to Wenxun's residence.

Try to look tipsy so that people will be caugh off guard.
>>
>>28223242
>>28223227

Wenxun's residence, you remember, is in another building from yours; thankfully it's on the ground floor. But even as you approach it, it seems clear that he's inside, judging by the fact that the whole place is lit up with lamps and candles.

And so it is. A servant attempts to ask your identity, but then you see the figure behind him and salute, and the poor man turns around, gasps and throws himself to the ground. 'Y-your Highness!'

'Oh, calm down. Get on your feet. Hongyang, what in the world happened to you?'

That's nice he asked, because you were about to ask the same of him too. As the manservant scuttles away, you tell him about the feast, and he shakes his head.

'It's somewhat as I expected,' he says.

'Well, where did *you* go? When I didn't see you at the feast I thought something might have happened...'

'Like what?' Wenxun slaps your shoulders and brings you to a seat. Ah, it feels nice to not have to remain standing and try not to fall down. 'No, before the feast, I went to visit some of the officers and reached my own conclusions. I take it you've done the same, but a little later.'

'You could say that. I wouldn't trust their sailors. Even with an inspection.'

'Me neither. I was considering just requisitioning their grain. Grain's grain, right? And we need that stuff, after the little mess-up with the merchants at Xingwangfu.' Wenxun sighs. 'As for the men... let's not.'

> Agree with Wenxun's point of view.
> Let's hold off on judgement until the inspection.
> Other.

> Also, if you'd like to talk to Wenxun (and why not), now's the time.
>>
>>28223460
>> Let's hold off on judgement until the inspection.

Met the guy actually in charge of them, he seems ok.

Dealing with the Admiral though...
>>
>>28223496

The guy actually in charge? Who?

The Lian guy isn't in charge of the troops.
>>
Rolled 2

>>28223460
>> Let's hold off on judgement until the inspection.
Soldiers are soldiers. even if they are bad, they bolster our fleet and can act as cannon fodder.
>>
>>28223510
Well, he's the one who works with them then. That's what I meant.
>>
>>28223460
>Let's hold off on judgement until the inspection.
But say as of our current opinion, we're inclined to agree that these men would be more of a burden that an asset at this point.

Maybe after we take the island they can be used as a garrison force.

If we opt not to take them however, we need to bring the fear of god into that Admiral. He'd better start getting his sailors and officers up to snuff, otherwise it will be his head that rolls.
>>
>>28223496
>>28223510
>>28223511
>>28223534

Honestly, you'd really like to agree with Wenxun. And why oughtn't you? The officers can't keep their hands to themselves, and do nothing but eat and drink. But still.

'I've met one or two of Chen Fan's retainers and they look solid. Maybe the troops are better drilled than their officers. We should take a look, in any case.' You shrug. 'And even if they aren't, well, more hands are better than fewer.'

'Not always, Hongyang. Weren't we going to launch a sneak attack on Phoenix Island and take over the fort there for our own purposes first? A large fleet might actually get in the way. Besides, more hands also means more mouths, and there's nothing worse than being stuck on an island with hungry soldiers.'

'Let's see, anyway.'

'Yeah, let's...' Wenxun seems clearly uninterested in talking too much about this. His confidence in the expedition might have faded a little, now it turns out Leizhou is not up to scratch. 'There's still Yazhou in Hainan, though. Their men are a lot better, that much I know. But Hongyang, once this expedition is over, I want to send you north.'

'North?'

'To represent me. And try to win the hand of that princess.' Only then, when Wenxun gestures, do you realise he's brought the painted scroll along with him, as well as another scroll. 'That one is poetry. In her own hand, apparently.'

You go up to read it, expecting it perhaps to be a Li Bai or a Li Shangyin. Her hand, it must be said, is a beautiful, if rather hesitant flowing script - not quite grass-cursive. Wait a minute, this isn't from the Tang Dynasty, it's a couplet from the Classic of Poetry.

Girl's got ancient tastes, man.

> What do/say, Hongyang?

> Also, are you wholly courting her for Wenxun if you go north?
>>
>>28223511
I'd suggest against using them just to bolster our numbers. They will eat into supplies and a large, untrained army is easy to spot. That and using cannon fodder tends to lower moral fiercely. Heck, they willingly run ahead of their escorts. By the looks of it, the retainers seem to be capable, but the officer core AND the general are horrible.

I say we go to the inspection, but we are going to have to look closely. At best, maybe half of the navy here can supply us with soldiers that won't slow us down. Officers we will likely have to supplement with our own.
>>
>>28223756
Mention what we learned, that apparently the Princess needs to be impressed by the Prince himself.

We will do our best but he's probably going to have to do something too.
>>
Rolled 65

>>28223817
this
>>
>>28223839
>>28223817

You tell Wenxun all that Lian Pi told you - the prophecy which lies behind why they're desperate to marry her off; the fact that the Princess herself appears to be a rather odd bird. Of course, you know that it is common practice for the representatives to do all the work; it would not do to tell the Prince that *he* has to prove himself.

No, if you are going to represent Wenxun, *you* will have to prove *him*. That's how it works. Still. A victory here would help your cause... then again, it might not, seeing as how the Princess is her own chooser.

'Did that man tell you what she might like?'

'No, he didn't. I don't really know.'

'Look at the painting closely, Hongyang.' You look at it. 'Look around the waist.'

She is slenderly built, but you do notice the pose, the subtle positioning of her legs under the form-fitting satin dress she is painted in - not standing still, but stepping slightly forward. A little unconventional for a girl. And then you notice what Wenxun probably wants you to notice - some traces of erasure on the painting, around her belt, the gentle rise of her, uh, hips. 'Something's been rubbed out.'

'Not anything, Hongyang. If you look carefully, it's a sword.' Wenxun laughs. 'She probably wanted herself painted with a sword on her dress sash, and then it got rubbed out before dispatch. You're right, she's an odd bird. But I can't help being intrigued.'

Knowing Wenxun, you know he isn't just intrigued. He obsesses, and idealises; it's part of his nature. He might really be... in love with a painting? But what of the woman herself...?

> What do/say, Hongyang?
> Or just retire to bed and speed the process up a little? There's a war needs fighting.
>>
>>28224146

> Also, all right, I'll be off now definitively. Thanks for playing, everyone!

> Will try to be better about questing at one go next time.
>>
Rolled 88

>>28224146
I think she's the woman for you Wenxun.
>>
>>28224235
thank you for running what time will the next one be


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