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You return from your negotiations with Yuan Shao. You have promised that you would serve him in the future and to keep the meeting a secret. A risky and dangerous proposition to be sure, but this may be the first step in your rise to power.

The meeting of the warlords is called. You enter the main tent of the coalition along with the other lords as your vassal officers take care of your troops at their own camp. The room inside the main tent maintains a large platform, and on top a long desk for the lords to sit at. At the very end of the table sits a man of medium height, long beard, sharp eyes, and a powerful look to him. He is Cao Cao, the man who called for this coalition to come.

You can see that Yuan Shao and Sun Jian have already seated themselves near Cao Cao and are now waiting for the others to sit. Various lords are coming in to seat themselves. Which seat do you take?

>take a seat at the front near Cao Cao, Yuan Shao, and Sun Jian
>take a seat in the middle
>take a seat near the end of the table

>>455727
>>take a seat at the front near Cao Cao, Yuan Shao, and Sun Jian
Show em who's boss

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>>455727
>take a seat near the front
A minor noble house we may be but we are still noble and gained merits in battle

>>455727
>>take a seat in the middle
Shows we know our place and won't piss many off.

Also arpeggio please archive when threads done.

>>455727
>>take a seat in the middle
We aren't big enough to sit in the front.

>>455727
>>take a seat near the end of the table

>>455727
>take a seat in the middle

Know our place.

Ce a best

>>455786
Cefag pls

>>455791
"Cefag pls"fag pls

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>>455786
>>455791
>>455797

>>455818
Man when the Ambusher Gao Shun shows up you won't be talkin so much shit!

>>455834
Gao Shun is seriously underrated

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You are aware at this point in time, your name and prestige are no near the levels of people like Yuan Shao and Sun Jian. To seat yourself at front would be an affront to the other lords, and yet, you must take some pride in yourself and not belittle yourself. You grab a chair near the middle of the table and you sit firmly awaiting the other lords to seat themselves. (Pol +2) As you sit yourself, a servant of Cao Cao calls out your arrival.

“Zheng Li, Administrator of Chen, brings three thousand troops to the coalition.”

Other lords are called out as they seat themselves.

“Gongsun Zan, Inspector of You province, brings ten thousand troops.”
“Han Fu, Governor of Ji, brings ten thousand troops
“Yuan Shu, General of the Rear, brings twenty thousand troops.”
“Qiao Mao, Administrator of Dong, brings five thousand troops.”

And so on and so forth. It seems most of the higher-up lords brought around 10,000 troops, while the lesser lords have brought around 5000. You have only brought 3000 and right now should be considered the weakest, though you expect things to change in the future.

“Lords, I humbly welcome you to the Guandong Coalition,” Cao Cao says once all lords are firmly seated. “I have brought you all today under an Imperial edict, given to me secretly by the Empror. He commands all loyal servants of the Han to fight the treacherous Dong Zhuo and save him from the villain's firm grasp. All who heed the Imperial orders, bow to his majesty.”

All lords including you take a moment to remove yourselves form your seats and bow to your knees. Cao Cao reads the imperial edict, and you all swear to obey the Imperial command to take Dong Zhuo down.

“Now we must choose a leader, a man to lead this coalition. I can think of no better than our esteemed Lord Yuan Shao.” Cao Cao says as he motions towards Yuan Shao. The lords of the table murmur, and then Yuan Shu speaks up.

“I was the one who slew the eunuchs at court to avenge Lord He Jin. It was I who opposed Dong Zhuo when he came to the capital, and was then forced to flee with my troops when he took over the palace. I hold the highest rank of General of the Rear. I should lead the coalition, and under my command, the rebels will be swiftly put in place.”

More murmurs go around the table, and you can see Yuan Shao looks at Yuan Shu with a look of disdain. Do you have anything to say in the matter?

>speak for Yuan Shao
>speak for Yuan Shu
>say nothing on the matter and let it resolve itself

>>455878
>>say nothing on the matter and let it resolve itself

>>455878
>>speak for Yuan Shao

>>455878
>>say nothing on the matter and let it resolve itself
If we speak for Yuan Shao now then there would be no point in asking to keep the previous meeting a secret even though I disagree with that choice..

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>>455878
>speak for Yuan Shao
he's the eldest in the Yuan family, we can do no better

>>455878
>>speak for Yuan Shao

Nigga sit down with your stupid ass face.

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The lords of the table begin to offer their words. Some support Yuan Shao, some Yuan Shu. In due turn, you also begin to speak.

“Lord Yuan Shao is the elder brother. He is also a veteran in defeating the Yellow Scarves, and he boats the largest and most well-equipped army in our ranks. I think it is only proper that Lord Yuan Shao be the one to lead this alliance.”

“And who are you to speak so fervently?” Yuan Shu says with scorn. “A man who only brings three thousand troops. All other lords have at least brought five thousand. I have not even heard the name Zheng Li in records, are you not but a brigand force? The day a Yuan listens to bandits is the day a tiger listens to a chicken.”

Several lords snicker at Yuan Shu's response and belittlement of you.

“Now now, calm yourself Lord Yuan,” Cao Cai says moving to appease Yuan Shu.

Do you have a response against Yuan Shu?

>belittle Yuan Shu back
>be humble, say nothing, and let Cao Cao take care of the matter

>>455979
>>be humble, say nothing, and let Cao Cao take care of the matter

>>455979
>>be humble, say nothing, and let Cao Cao take care of the matter

>>455979
>>belittle Yuan Shu back
Changed my mind.

>be humble, say nothing, and let Cao Cao take care of the matter

>>455979
>be humble, say nothing, and let Cao Cao take care of the matter

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“Lord Yuan Shu, the man before you has served the Han well. Though he does not have the prestige, and cannot in any way match your grand name, he is a veteran leader and has proven himself capable from what I have heard. He has valuable counsel to offer, and I think we should heed his advice.”

“And so you are saying my brother should take charge?” Yuan Shu says with a frown. “In what world does an Inspector of a province take charge over a ranked General of the Han?”

“Lord Yuan Shu, the times are chaotic and the Han is in turmoil,” Cao Cao says in an appeasing matter. “Dong Zhuo holds the court after all and has the young Emperor in the palm of his hands. By allowing Yuan Shao to be the leader, we are making a proclamation that we do not recognize the titles Dong Zhuo currently has in place. Once we save the court and the Emperor, he shall surely reward you no less than your brother. You are a poignant man, for this one time, let yourself be humble and allow your brother to lead.”

Yuan Shu sighs a bit but after a while nods in agreement. The other lords of the table agree as well and the matter is resolved with Yuan Shao as grand commander.

A ceremony takes place where incense and offerings are given to the late Han emperors. Yuan Shao draws his sword, and placing himself in front, declares his determination.

“We the lords of the Guandong Alliance shall not back down until the rebel Dong Zhuo is killed!”

The rest of the lords all yell in confirmation.

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Once the ceremony is over and the lords seat themselves, Cao Cao pulls over a map.

“I have already heard that Dong Zhuo has sent generals out from Luoyang to encamp themselves near the passes and front. Though we have more soldiers than they, we must all remember that the troops under Dong Zhuo are veteran soldiers from fighting the Liang rebels and Yellow Scarves. Be cautious my lords.

We must meet the enemy in combat to show our determination. Lord Han Fu should attack from the north through the river with lord Gongzun Zan. I shall attack from the center through the plains of Luyang with lords Zhang Miao. The southern pass through the mountains will be the most difficult, and I can think of no better than Lords Sun Jian and Yuan Shu to take. Lord Yuan Shao shall support all three fronts and send troops where he can. The other lords, please choose a front to help the respective vanguard.”

Though you expected it, you are not chosen as a leader and vanguard for the front. It seems you have a choice with who to attack with.


>go with Han Fu in attacking the northern river ford
>go with Cao Cao in meeting the enemy at the central plains
>go with Sun Jian in attacking the mountain pass from the south

>>456130
>go with Cao Cao in meeting the enemy at the central plains

>>456130
>go with Sun Jian in attacking the mountain pass from the south

>>456130
>go with Cao Cao in meeting the enemy at the central plains
Only real choice here

>>456130
>>go with Sun Jian in attacking the mountain pass from the south

>>456130
>>go with Sun Jian in attacking the mountain pass from the south
And keep him supplied with rations.

>>456130
>go with Han Fu in attacking the northern river ford

I think there is merit in this option for two reasons. Firstly, we will be overshadowed by heroes in the other two fronts whereas we can excel and make a name for ourselves with Han Fu. Secondly, gaining experience near the water will help us with Chen since it also has a river we plan to use later on.

Sure you wanna go with fucking Yuan Shu who just insulted us

>>456130
>>456175
This.

>>456175
>>456151
>>456130
That makes sense. Changing my vote to this.

>>456175
Is Han Fu that loser weakling with Zhang he as a general?

If so, i support >>456175,

>>456130

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>>456130
>Cao Cao
My boy

>>456175
I'll back that.

>>456130
>>go with Cao Cao
We use horses and this will be the best area for them. I say we go with what we know.

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Remembering that you hold friendly relations with Han Fu as well as Zhang He, the main commander serving under Han Fu, you decide to align yourself with him and attack from the northern river ford. You march your three thousand men and joining with you are the minor lords Zhang Yang and Wang Kuang who lead five thousand men.

You travel for a week and arrive near the northern part of the Yellow River. You are at Heyang Ford, the part of the Yellow River that is shallow enough for soldiers to cross. Yet the ford is guarded by the enemy and you hear it is none other than Lu Bu, the man known as the fiercest warrior in the kingdom. Along with Lu Bu, the other enemy generals are Zhang Ji and Niu Fu. They hold twenty thousand veteran soldiers from Liang, compromised mainly of heavy cavalry and infantry. They have already crossed the ford and are in place to fight you on the plains. You fear the enemy cavalry can wreck havoc.

Still, it is not as if the battle if hopeless. You see the magnificent army of Gongsun Zan comprised also of cavalry. The horses Gongsun Zan hold are white and their force is collectively known as the White Riders. With Han Fu, Gongsun Zan, Wang Kuang, and Zhang Yang, your troops count around thirty thousand.

You go to meet with the other lords, but before doing so, you are met by Zhang He who greets you with a smile. The two of your clasp hands with one another.

“Zheng Li, it is good to see you once again. More rebels rise across the land and it seems we shall be fighting together once again. Is it Lord Zheng Li now? I heard you have risen to the status of a lord.”

>humbly state you are still no one yet
>state your grand ambitions and your wish to rise in power

>>456273
>Yet the ford is guarded by the enemy and you hear it is none other than Lu Bu,
We are fucked.
>>state your grand ambitions and your wish to rise in power

>>456273
>humbly state you are still no one yet
Because we aren't

>>456273
>>humbly state you are still no one yet
But that if being a lord means forgetting friends we are better off as we are.

>>456273
>humbly state you are still no one yet

Showing being overtly ambitous right here might not be the best idea.

>>456273
>we are no one yet
>also skip some of the petty talk and let's really indulge in how to approach the situation.

>>456273
>>humbly state you are still no one yet
Were working on it.

"How have you been friend?"

>>456273
>humbly state you are still no one yet
kind of true

>>456273
>>state your grand ambitions and your wish to rise in power

Write in
>Zhang He you are the Sun Ce of this quest

>>456297
Hefag pls

>>456299
"Hefag pls" pls

>>456273
>>456289
This.

>>456297
>cuck

>>456273

i support this>>456289

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“Bah, I am nothing, and I would rather not hear you calling me lord,” you state with a wave of dismissal with your hand. “We have fought together as equals enough that you do not need to address me with some lame title.”

Zhang He laughs.

“True, we both are warriors and started off as such. I am impressed however; most of these people who gain power grow their egos on their head and think themselves better. I am glad to know you remember your origins.”

“The front lines shall prove that enough,” you say with a smile.

Your conversation is interrupted. You hear the rumble of enemy horse hooves in the distant and through the dusts you soon see a large army coming. The enemy force arrives in front of your army, their black standards high up in the air and their troops ready for battle. Many horsemen are in the front and their ranks are organized well. The coalition forces quickly align themselves to get in proper formation.

One man from the enemy comes forward. A man six feet tall, handsome, and a pheasant headdress wielding a large halberd.

“Rebels of the state! Outlaws and brigands! How dare you march your punitive force against the Chancellor?” Lu Bu says out in a thunderous voice. He swings his halberd around. “Come, let me show how pathetic you worms are! I challenge any warrior brave enough to fight me in single combat!”

Yang Jing comes beside you.

“Is this Lu Bu so tough? Let me go smite him!”

In the other ranks some of the warriors are offering to go fight Lu Bu.

>offer Yang Jing to duel Lu Bu
>keep to yourself for now and let the other warriors fight

>>456320
>keep to yourself for now and let the other warriors fight
Fuck no we're screwed, should've gone with Cao Cao

>>456320
>keep to yourself for now and let the other warriors fight

Do not pursue!

>>456320
>keep to yourself for now and let the other warriors fight

It is still Lu Bu, we should stay the fuck away from him.

>>456320
>keep to yourself for now and let the other warriors fight

Like I know it won't work because it's Three Kingdoms but couldn't the coalition forces just send a volley of arrows at Lu Bu while he is talking shit?

Like the enemy general is right there, it's be nice to just kill him before he led his men.

>>456320
>>keep to yourself for now and let the other warriors fight

Yang Jing I don't want you 2 die, nigga

>>456320
>>keep to yourself for now and let the other warriors fight
DO NOT PURSUE LU BU

>>456320
>>456333
This.

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Though Yang Jing is a powerful fighter, you do not know if he can match against the man considered the greatest warrior of the land. And looking at Lu Bu, his mighty posture and the fierce horse he is on, the firm grasp of his weapon and the mighty presence he holds, you believe he likely deserves his reputation. You quickly dissuade Yang Jing.

“Our force is the smallest and least recognized. I fear the other lords with loathe us if we were to take their glory. Let us let the other warriors offer their challenge” you tell Yang Jing. The man shrugs in response.

“Fine then. Let's see what this Lu Bu can do.”

Some doughty warrior from your ranks that Han Fu chose goes out to meet Lu Bu. The man wielding a blade charges against Lu Bu, his sword swirling in the air.

“Lu Bu, prepare to meet your doom!” he yells out.

...In but a single bout, Lu Bu cuts down the warrior. A horseman of Gongsun Zan, apparently a great warrior of the Xianbei barbarian tribes, goes to fight Lu Bu next swearing vengeance. The man only gets three rounds with Lu Bu before his chest is pierced by Lu Bu's halberd.

A great surprise and fear comes from the ranks of your force. Your worries were correct; Yang Jing, and yourself, could in no way stand against this warrior. His might and skill are peerless.

“What humiliation!” Zhang He crys out. “Even I mus recognize that I cannot beat him. Shame as it is, I would only die if I went out to fight Lu Bu!”

Lu Bu laughs at your force. He marches back to his ranks and soon the drums to attack are heard. Lu Bu's cavalry begins charging forward.

“Form ranks! Form ranks! Meet them in battle, show them the prowess of the White Riders!” Gongsun Zan calls out.

>keep your army to the left flank and try to hold the enemy off
>align yourself with the mighty White Riders and fight at the center front
>keep to the back relief forces and try to keep your own troop casualties low

>>456369
>>keep to the back relief forces and try to keep your own troop casualties low
Have the archers continuously lose arrows at them.

>>456369
>left flank bitches
Or we could
>play up as a reserve force and then come around to the backs of the enemy in secret.

>>456369
>keep your army to the left flank and try to hold the enemy off

We need to do some damage, and if we can outflank them, we have a bigger advantage yet.

>>456369
>keep your army to the left flank and try to hold the enemy off

We at least vaguely told Zhang He we'd do stuff, but I don't think we should take the position that would get us most killed.

Let's just support the side.

>>456369
>keep to the back relief forces and try to keep your own troop casualties low
Our best hope is not getting slaughtered

>>456369
>keep your army to the left flank and try to hold the enemy off

>>456381
Are men aren't green like a lot of the men here. We need to show we can do something to the other generals regardless of our low numbers.

I just hope the dice agree...

We are here to make a name for ourselves right? We have to do something guys. You need to have a little risk.

>>456369
>>keep your army to the left flank and try to hold the enemy off

>>456369
>>keep your army to the left flank and try to hold the enemy off

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Gongsun Zan goes to the center and front. Raising his sword in the air and donning his silver helmet, he cries out a rally to his troops.

“The White Riders do not fear death! Show these brutes of Liang that the northern horsemen of You are the betters! Charge!”

“Follow the General of Baima! To battle!” the soldiers call out. They charge forward to meet the enemy cavalry in battle. Lu Bu's Liang cavalry and Gongsun Zan's White Riders smash one another in a huge melee and a chaotic battle ensues where spears break apart against spears and horses are blown to the ground. The bravery of both forces clearly show as they fight with all their strength.

You keep yourself away from the center and main battle. Instead your troops go over to the flank of your force to fight against another division of cavalry and infantry coming towards you. Along with some of Han Fu's troops, you create a tight formation to meet the enemy. The first wave of enemy cavalry are met against your wall of spearmen and fall, but the next lines break apart the spearwall and a melee ensues.

You see your officers at the forefront fighting. Hao Xian commands the men well, filling any gaps where defenses may be breached. You see Yang Jing in the front lines smashing enemy heads with his axe. And you see your new recruit, Song Qian, fighting heartily as well with his crescent trident.

Two horsemen from the enemy manage to break through and they charge at you with their swords.

>meet the two in personal combat and slay themselves
>order a squad of spearmen to intercept and kill them

>>456432
>meet the two in personal combat and slay themselves

>>456432
>meet the two in personal combat and slay themselves

>>456369
>meet the two in personal combat and slay themselves
Time to be a badass

>>456432
>meet the two in personal combat and slay themselves
>slay themselves
Fighting with us is so terrifying they'd rather kill themselves? Maybe one day we'll reach that.

>>456432
>>meet the two in personal combat and slay themselves
We have enough WAR for that.

>>456432
>>meet the two in personal combat and slay themselves

Roll 1d100, best of three.

Rolled 26 (1d100)

>>456444

Rolled 70 (1d100)

>>456444
>

Rolled 21 (1d100)

>>456444

Rolled 84 (1d100)

>>456452
Decent.

Rolled 59 (1d100)

>>456462
Decenter

>>456471
>>456462
But too late.

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Drawing your sword, you go to meet the two horsemen. One of them swings a sword at your head but you quickly dodge by ducking backwards and with a swift flash of your sword you counter-cut at his stomach. Your sword cuts through the kills the enemy horseman. The other enemy horseman clashes his sword against yours and the two of you fight one another for a few rounds. You are the better warrior however and with a thrust of your sword, you break through his defense and pierce the man's throat. Your men cheer in recognition of your swordplay. (War +1)

You continue the battle and your men manage to kill enough troops at one section of the enemy wave. It may be risky, but do you lead your veteran horseman through the gap and try to cause damage to the enemy?

>keep it safe and hold the line
>lead your cavalry through the gap and try to break the enemy

>>456479
>>lead your cavalry through the gap and try to break the enemy

>>456479
>lead your cavalry through the gap and try to break the enemy

>>456479
>>lead your cavalry through the gap and try to break the enemy

>>456479
>>lead your cavalry through the gap and try to break the enemy

Wish us good luck.

>>456479
>lead your cavalry through the gap and try to break the enemy
Eh, why not.

>>456479
>lead your cavalry through the gap and try to break the enemy
After that flank Lu Bu's cav, we might be recognized as the hero of the day then

>>456479
>lead your cavalry through the gap and try to break the enemy
Good luck gents.

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Roll 1d100, avg of three.

Rolled 4 (1d100)

>>456493

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Rolled 32 (1d100)

>>456493

Rolled 6 (1d100)

>>456493

Rolled 79 (1d100)

>>456493
Shit average? Dun fucked up I thought our WAR and LDR was better than that.

Rolled 26 (1d100)

>>456493

>>456494
>>456497
Niggers.

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>>456494
>>456496
>>456497

Honestly have we ever had a good command roll?

Rolled 62 (1d100)

>>456493
>average
WAKE ME UP

>>456479
>lead your cavalry through the gap and try to break the enemy

I'mma be honest. If we keep getting droves of our men killed we're not going to be doing too hot.

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>>456494
>>456496
>>456497
>>456516
We are absolutely fucked.

So you think we can salvage this or did we just get everyone killed?

>>456516
Dice just can't let us win when it comes to actual army combat it seems.

>>456520
Depends. losing veteran cavalry is kinda shit. Honestly, we may just want to consider letting Yuan Shao eating us so we can get his men and soldiers killed instead.

>>456518
Eh-heh, uh, well hey let's look at the bright side.

At least they'll be so distracted by them killing us that our friends will swoop 'em up. ;u;

...right?

>>456516
We can always pack it up and become wine merchants. Depending on how badly this cavalry charge goes we'll probably get maimed anyway.

Rolling for how fucked we are.

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Gathering together your veteran mounted soldiers, you and your horsemen attack at the enemy gap. You and your soldiers begin slaying enemy soldiers left and right and you manage to break apart the ranks of some of the enemy.

However, the enemy troops are veterans of war themselves as you remember. Though they are initially pushed back by your cavalry, they quickly respond back by tightening their ranks. Enemy spearmen begin surrounding your squad and soon enough your momentum is put to a halt. Your horsemen are no longer charging but are not put on the defensive as enemy infantry spearmen begin picking off your veteran soldiers.

You do your absolute best to hold off the enemy. An enemy horseman comes charging at you, and grabbing a spear, you throw it at him and pierce his chest. An enemy spearman comes to strike at you, but you manage to grab the shaft of his spear, pull him forward, and slash his throat. Try as you might, the enemy numbers are too overwhelming and in the chaotic battle you are stabbed in the shoulder by an enemy spear. (Minor Wound)

As an enemy comes to behead you, several of your own men put themselves in the front to defend you.

“Protect our lord! Fight to the death!”

Your veteran soldiers fight hard, and they kill a man or two for their own lives. Your numbers begin to dwindle, and all hope seems lost as your veteran men fall protecting you.

“Lord Zheng!”

You hear a shout from behind you. You see the venerable Song Qian and a squad of men pushing forward and slaying enemy soldiers. They manage to break through the enemy encirclement of your cavalary.

“Protect Lord Zheng! Lead him back to our lines!” Song Qian yells as he stabs an enemy infantry through the face his with halberd. Your men protect you as you fall back to the back lines.

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>>456567
The sound of retreat drums is heard. Lu Bu's army and the coalition forces break apart from the battle to rest. No real victor is clear and casualties lay on both side. Several thousand casualties are on Lu Bu's side while several thousand are dead on your side as well. On your own troops, five hundred of your regular corps have fallen in battle. And quite unfortunately, your entire veteran line gave their lives defending you. You still hold 2000 adept troops under your command.

You meet with your own officers. Yang Jing and Song Qian's armor and weapons are bloody from the battle.

“The Liang corps are truly a force to be reckoned with...” Song Qian says.

“I'll have to give those bastards the credit they deserve,” Yang Jing says spitting on the ground.

What do you say?

>the enemy is truly a worthy challenge
>the enemy is nothing, we will overcome them soon
>lament the way the battle concluded and mourn

>>456572
>the enemy is truly a worthy challenge
then
>lament the way the battle concluded and mourn

cause it's a damn shame that we had to lose so many, against Lu Bu or not.

>>456572
>lament the way the battle concluded and mourn
RIP our precious veterans

>>456572
1200 Veteran, 300 Trained, 1300 Adepts

to 900 Veteran, 200 Trained, 900 Adepts.

-300 horses

>>456577
>>456572

second.

>>456572
Lament our failures and cry

We must do a mass recruiting once we are back to our lands.

>>456572
>the enemy is truly a worthy challenge

>Vow to avenge our fallen comrades and grasp victory

>>456572
>>456577
>>456581

>>456594
Second

>>456572
>we roll to cry and if so how hard
>fuck it up so bad we start laughing hysterically and everyone leaves us

>>456572
>the enemy is truly a worthy challenge
but they are nothing we cannot overcome

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"Indeed. They are a worthy challenge for us warriors, and in some ways, we must respect the valor of the enemy. Gone are the days when we slew simple peasants. We face worthy adversaries now."

You shake your head.

"I have lost many good men. The horsemen that have been with me since the start... The soldiers that I crushed Guan Hai's force back then. Those brave soldiers have fallen in defending me. I swear I shall continue on for the lives they have given."

Lu Fan at the side bows to you.

"Yes, my lord. Though the loss of men may be saddening, you cannot sit around and lament. You are a leader of men and must hold strong. More soldiers shall perish in the future and we must all understand this."

All of you nod to one another and reorganize your troops.

(Lead +2, War +1) Minor injury will last for a season.

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The next week of battles are a few skirmishes. Weary from the big fight, Lu Bu and your coalition do not engage in any huge battles but instead find yourselves at statement with only a few clashes here and there.

News arrives from the other front lines. Cao Cao at the center plains encountered the enemy general Xu Rong and the both of them also ended in a stalemate. Sun Jian at the southern pass initially was winning against the enemy general Hua Xiong, but a lack of supplies and support from Yuan Shu ended in a defeat for Sun Jian's force. Yuan Shao sent relief forces to each side and the stalemate continuted.

Without progress being made, the coalition forces are called back to the main base to regroup. You see Han Fu wiping his brows as the troops begin marching back.

“Facing off against Lu Bu was frightening,” he says. “I am glad to know we can fall back and re-do our plans.”

What do you think?

>it's better at this point to fall back and regroup
>the retreat is cowardly and all forces should have continued fighting the traitors

>>456657
>>it's better at this point to fall back and regroup

>>456657
>>the retreat is cowardly and all forces should have continued fighting the traitors

Say it but don't mean it.

I mean, we want to seem like not a little scared bitch so Zhang He fawns over us.

>>456657
>the retreat is cowardly and all forces should have continued fighting the traitors

We still have 2000 troops, we should continue for a bit longer. I don't want to waste men, but we have more to spend at the moment,

>>456653
What exactly is considered a "minor injury"?

>>456657
>it's better at this point to fall back and regroup

>>456657
>>it's better at this point to fall back and regroup

Even if we were to break through it would end badly for us since we would be unsupported.

>>456668
You got stabbed in the left shoulder. The army might be difficult to use and your fighting ability is down a bit. Obtaining more injuries might cause the death of you.

>>456657
>>it's better at this point to fall back and regroup
We tested the enemy and learned things about them. We can now train up and rethink our plans.

>>456657
>implying that we might want to fight lu bu for more time than it is required
>problem bout the previous fight was that we didn't plan enough. So let's plan

>>456693
Nice name faggo

>>456657
>it's better at this point to fall back and regroup

Even if we had broken through on our front, it would have meant little if our allies didn't also succeed.

We need a new plan if we are to beat that traitorous bastard Dong Zhou

>>456705
Thanks, sorry I forgot i still had that meme on hand.

>>456657
>the retreat is cowardly and all forces should have continued fighting the traitors

PURSUE

LU BU

"Though it is unfortunate, the forces of Dong Zhuo seem to be much more resilient than I thought," you say. "I agree it is better to regroup for now."

"To be quite honest I wish to return to Ye," Han Fu says with a sigh. "This campaign has been long and so many casualties have already been lost since the years have gone by. Why must turmoil trouble us so? I simply wish to live in peace. I hope we can continue to remain faithful allies," Han Fu says.

You doubt that will be the case. Even if Dong Zhuo was to be defeated, would all these lords that have risen in power be content with their own bases? You yourself wish to conquer more lands soon enough...

The alliance meets back at headquarters. The lords all sigh and lament at the stalemate. What they thought was going to be a quick victory and the troops full of morale have now drawn to a tired, prolonged war.

"Worry not," Cao Cao says assuring the lords. "This stalemate seems to be on the bad side, but we have done more damage to Dong Zhuo than we have done to him. Already we have cut off Dong Zhuo's supplies from the rest of the east and cut off all trade. I have already heard that he has begun melting down gold and jade to mint his own coins. If we can bring more reinforcements and continue our battle, we shall surely be victorious."

"How much more men must I expend?" Qiao Mao, one of the minor lord states. "I have already given enough supplies and soldiers to this cause."

"Lu Bu has slaughtered nearly half my men," Liu Dai complains.

"Is this not a sign that I should have been leader!?" Yuan Shu says slamming his hand.

"My lords, plea-" Cao Cao attempts to keep the morale of the lords up, but the tent of the main camp is burst open and a soldier comes out.

"My lords! Hua Xiong is at the distant with the main force of the enemy! He holds Lord Sun Jian's turban and demands more battle!"

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>>456811
Apparently when Sun Jian was retreating form his lost battle, he had to give his turban to one of his officers to manage to escape. Now Hua Xiong has come to taunt the coalition for their loss and Sun Jian's retreat.

“Let me do battle against this Hua Xiong!” a warrior calls out.

“This is Yu She, one of my finest warriors,” Yuan Shu boasts. “He will slay this Hua Xiong.”

Yu She goes out to meet Hua Xiong in a duel. The duel only last a couple bouts before Yu She is slain and his body thrown to the dust. The morale of the coalition army continues to deteriorate.

Hua Xiong is certainly a mighty warrior, but no Lu Bu. Perhaps you can offer one of your officers to fight? It may earn you fame, but it is another risk you will have to take.

>send one of your officers to duel
>keep quiet

>>456814

>send Song Qian or Yang Jing to duel

>>456814
>>send one of your officers to duel

Enough of this!

Yang Jing, go and slay this fool!

>>456811
>but we have done more damage to Dong Zhuo than we have done to him
What?

>>456814
>>send one of your officers to duel
Send Yang Jing.

Once he dies cry and wait for Guan Yu to save us.

Also, eating, be right back in like 20-30 mins.

>>456814
>>send one of your officers to duel
Send Yang Jing

>>456826
Guan Yu won't save us

Because Yang Jing'll cave this bastard's head in

File: whoAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH.jpg (28 KB, 267x370)

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Roll 1d100, average of three.

Rolled 19 (1d100)

>>456865

Rolled 87 (1d100)

>>456865
Yang Jing

>>456866

Ok....yeah...I ain't rolling dice anymore. RNG does not like me tonight

Rolled 41 (1d100)

>>456865

Rolled 58 (1d100)

>>456865
RIP

49. Yang Jing ded.
We are never going to get anything fucking done with average.

>>456866
>>456867
>>456869
welp. Yang Jing's dead.

>>456866
>>456867
>>456872

49.

HANG IN THERE BUDDY

i feel as if dice are never favorable

>>456881
Only on averages. Most other things we do okay.

>>456881
Except you know, the time we got massive success in killibg that Yellow Turban and convincing Yuan Shao.

So far we have got 2 successes, 2 fails, 2 average. That should be in line for what to expect in takong these risky shit clearly outlined.

File: wake me.jpg (149 KB, 485x769)

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>this whole campaign

File: Yang Jing.jpg (62 KB, 360x512)

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You take a glance at the distant. Hua Xiong stands tall atop his black horse and on the ground is the enemy general Yu She. The enemy troops are taunting and creating shouts at your army. You look back and consider the situation. If one of your officers can defeat Hua Xiong, you will recognized better. Besides, Yuan Shu was the one who insulted and belittled you. What better way to humiliate him then beating Hua Xiong right after his champion lost?

“Lord Yuan Shao, I have a mighty warrior in my ranks. You may remember him from our campaigns together. Let me send Yang Jing to battle this Hua Xiong and obtain his head.”

Yuan Shao rubs his beard.

“I do certainly remember a doughty warrior who did well in your force. Not comparable to my Yan Liang or Wen Chou, but he may very well slay this Hua Xiong. Very well, send this Yang Jing”

The order to send Yang Jing out is given. Yang Jing grabs his battle axe and dons his helmet. He boastfully shouts to the soldiers.

“Hua Xiong's head shall be mine, and you shall all bear witness this day!”

“Be careful brother, that man is not an ordinary fighter,” you warn beside his horse. Yang Jing laughs as he gallops off.

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>>456905
Hua Xiong watches a warrior charging at him. He scoffs and readies his spear.

“Another maggot to come and fight me. I shall cleave through all of them for Lord Dong Zhuo.”

Hua Xiong readies a stance and moves forward. A simple block and he would kill this foolish warrior sent to him. But when the great axe comes down on Hua Xiong, he finds himself fighting against a powerful warrior.

Yang Jing and Hua Xiong exchange blows. They swing at one another and parry each other. Axe crashes against the metal'd spear of Hua Xiong and with each strike strong vibrations ring throughout the battlefield.

“Hmph, what is your name?” Hua Xiong calls out as he the two warriors withdraw after the twentieth bout.

“Yang Jing of Yuzhou! I will take your head and mount it on the palisades for all to see!”

“No man can best me, and you are of no difference than the rest of the cattle!” Hua Xiong says as he goes forward.

The duel rages on and the two keep exchanging blows. At one Hua Xiong manages to hit Yang Jing on his helm and the headgear comes flying off, but Yang Jing returns the favor by smashing the shoulder guard of Hua Xiong armor. The duel lasts for eighty bouts and the soldiers on each side look on with amazement. But soon the drums to fallback are given and boh Hua Xiong and Yang Jing retire.

“You are no ordinary cattle, I'll give you that,” Hua Xiong says. “The next time I see you will be your last.”

“Hah! I'm not even tired. Go back to your fat lord, and challenge me again when you have the chance!” Yang Jing says as he returns to camp as well.

Back in camp the soldiers talk amongst themselves at the amazing duel they have seen. Many are quite impressed, even if Hua Xiong was not slain. You meet with Yang Jing.

>congratulate Yang Jing on a well-fought batttle
>poke fun at him for not being able to kill Hua Xiong

>>456905

Pls don't let Yang Jing die without being surrounded by bitches

>>456909
>>poke fun at him for not being able to kill Hua Xiong
But well fought nonetheless.

>>456909
>poke fun at him for not being able to kill Hua Xiong

>>456909
>>poke fun at him for not being able to kill Hua Xiong

then

>>congratulate Yang Jing on a well-fought batttle

And more importantly, on coming back home alive, brother.

Just realized we cucked Guan Yu out of his fight.

>>456909
>Congratulate Yang jing on a well-fought battle
Give the man some face

>>456909
>>congratulate Yang Jing on a well-fought batttle
Thanks for throwing us a bone QM

>>456909
>congratulate Yang Jing on a well-fought battle

That's muh nigga! Someone get this man some bitches at once!

>>456909
>congratulate Yang Jing on a well-fought batttle

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You make a smirk at Yang Jing as he dismounts his horse and hands his axe to a soldier.

"I thought you said you were going to get his head?" you say with a sneer. "It seems you have lied now and made me look terrible in front of the other lords."

"Bah!" Yang Jing says with a wave of his hand. "You louts were the ones who called the drums to fall back. I would have had his head in another few rounds."

You laugh and pat Yang Jing.

"Well done my brother. Go and grab some wine."

You return to the council after bidding Yang Jing to his tent. Some of the other lords are looking at you in a better light, but others seem not to care.

"Hua Xiong is still alive," Yuan Shu says with a frown. "We should have sent someone else to battle."

"Do not fret Lord Yuan Shu," Cao Cao says coming up. "Having made Hua Xiong retreat for the moment is enough. The morale of our force has been low since the last engagements and the death of our other champions. The opportunity to strike has now come. Let us strike at Hua Xiong with our troops combined and push him back."

Sun Jian rises at this.

"I have been bested by Hua Xiong in the last battle. Allow me to return the favor as the vanguard."

And with that the coalition army marches out of the main gate. They head towards Hua Xiong's group who readies his own army to fight. You march out with your two thousand soldiers as well.

Sun Jian charges forward with his army.

"This time I have my supplies! You will not last me Hua Xiong!"

What does your army do?

>go along with Sun Jian and fight at the front
>stay in the back and support with archers
>harass the flanks of the enemy with hit-and run tactics

>>456951
>>go along with Sun Jian and fight at the front

>>456951
>>stay in the back and support with archers
Dice are gonna fuck us.

>>456951
>>go along with Sun Jian and fight at the front

Lord Sun, it would be an honour to fight by your side.

>>456961
>>456963
You know we are wounded and if we fight there we may die? Just saying.

>>456951
>stay in the back and support with archers
We are wounded and low on troops

>>456951
>go along with Sun Jian and fight at the front

Sun Jian is a friend and someone we should endeavor to make an ally. We should go to great lengths to fight by his side.

>>456964

Who Dares Wins

Until the dice decides to fuck us over but really if we dont stick our neck out abit, we won't get anywhere. And beside a nice powerful is as good as it gets.

>>456977
There is daring and then there is pushing our luck.

>>456980

And I listed why this would be one of the safer ventures.

>>456951

>go along with Sun Jian

Glory to the first man to die! CHARGE!

This should be our motto. Death or Glory. Only cowards run from duty and honor.

File: Sun Jian3.jpg (296 KB, 633x900)

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You join Sun Jian at the front, and riding beside the man, you proclaim your desire to battle with him. Sun Jian nods and remembers how well you treated him.

"I have a plan Lord Zheng. When our armies clash, please fight for an hour and then feign defeat and retreat. I will hurl insults at you to make it more believable. We shall lure Hua Xiong who is but a wild beast deeper in to our lines, where we will then surround him and destroy him."

You agree with the battle. Sun Jian rides forward with his troops and engage Hua Xiong's men. The two forces are evenly matched and you join alongside Sun Jian in the melee. The veteran warriors of the Liang corps gives your men some trouble, and when you see that around two hundred of your men have been slain, you order a call for retreat.

"Why are we the ones forced to fight in the front while the other lords laze around!? Retreat, the armies of Chen will no longer suffer any more casualties!"

"Zheng Li you traitor! You dare turn your back to your duties!? I will have your head for this!" Sun Jian shouts in rage as you begin to fall back.

Seeing this Hua Xiong orders his army a full charge. His reserves in the back charge in and through the hole that your army has left behind they begin charging in. But no sooner than they enter, Sun Jian's troops change formations in a majestic and well-disciplined manner. They reform their ranks to create a tight box on the flanks of Hua Xiong, and just as your forces retreat back, Cao Cao's army comes forward to replace you.

Hua Xiong, seeing the danger of this trap, quickly orders his troops to move back. But in the back an elite group of horsemen have already filled the gap and are boxing Hua Xiong in. The cavalry from the back is no other than Liu Bei with his two brothers. They had been serving Gongsun Zan as the reserve forces but have finally entered battle.

Hua Xiong's army is obliterated. Hua Xiong fights to his very last breath until Sun Jian comes charging from his side and stabs Hua Xiong through his ribs with his sword.

"Revenge for Zu Mao!" Sun Jian cries out as Hua Xiong falls in battle.

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>>457039
Cheers of victory go out through the coalition forces. But the cries soon die out as in the distant the sound of hooves and another army comes close. Lu Bu arrives with fresh reinforcements and he immediately orders a charge. The coalition army is tired from battle, but do their best to fight back. You quickly order your men to help mount the defenses. Amidst the battle, Lu Bu with his great halberd charges the front lines and he begins slaying warriors left and right. Several officers go to challenge him, but they are all cut down and the coalition ranks begin to panic.

One man stands in Lu Bu's way however. You recognize Zhang Fei who shouts “Bastard with three fathers, fight me!” and engages Lu Bu. They fight fifty bouts, and it seems evenly matched. Guan Yu and Liu Bei join the battle however and Lu Bu is forced to fight three of the warriors at once. After another thirty bouts, he is forced to retreat from the combined might of the three brothers.

The coalition army manages to push Lu Bu's army back, but not after suffering strong casualties. The lords once again fall back to discuss matters.

“We have suffered to many casualties, we must retreat and rest for a few months,” Yuan Shao says. “We must get more reinforcements then we may get rid of Dong Zhuo.”

“No,” Cao Cao says interjecting. “The time to pursue is now. Though we are tired and have suffered losses, the same can be said of Dong Zhuo. If we do not attack now he will strengthen his defenses. I fear he may also retreat to Changan, a city even more impenetrable than Luoyang. We must continue to battle.”

“I have suffered too many casualties,” Wang Kuang says. “I can no longer send any more men without reinforcements.”

“We are tired and our army needs rest,” replies Yuan Shu. “I too agree with waiting.”

“Have you not done enough waiting?” Sun Jian says bitterly to Yuan Shu. “Back at Huamen Pass you allowed my men to fight. You could not even send me proper supplies. Would you dare say you cannot fight further?”

“How dare you! The fault of that lay with one of my officers, a man I already executed on your behalf you ungrateful lout!”

Bickering breaks apart in the coalition. What do you have to say?

>agree with Cao Cao and Sun Jian, you must continue the fight
>agree with Yuan Shao and the other lords, rest and recuperate

>>457040
>agree with Cao Cao and Sun Jian, you must continue the fight

>>457040
>>agree with Cao Cao and Sun Jian, you must continue the fight

>>457040
>>agree with Cao Cao and Sun Jian, you must continue the fight

>>457040
>>agree with Cao Cao and Sun Jian, you must continue the fight

>>457040
>agree with Cao Cao and Sun Jian, you must continue the fight

WE MUST PURSUE DONG ZHOU

File: yuan shao1.png (455 KB, 633x391)

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“Lords Cao Cao and Sun Jian are right,” you say. “We have lost many men, but we must pursue if we are to defeat Dong Zhuo. Changan has long been reinforced with thick walls and towers; if Dong Zhuo retreats there as Lord Cao says, he will surely be immovable.”

“And you would risk the lives of thousands of soldiers in a risky attack? Need I remind you that if we march out our tired army now, we risk obliteration? Dong Zhuo still holds another twenty thousand men and they have the advantage of defense and terrain. The road and passes to the capital are mountains and difficult,” Yuan Shao says. “Surely you are not disagreeing with me Lord Zheng?” Yuan Shao says.

You bitterly purse your lips at this. Yuan Shao is invoking the alliance you previously made, and he is clearly displeased you sided with Cao Cao and Sun Jian over him.

“Enough of this,” Sun Jian says. “I have come here all the way from the lands of Changsha so that I may punish the rebels. I will march my armies through Xuamen pass from the south once again.”

“And I will go through Hu Lao,” Cao Cao says. “If I predict correctly, the enemy troops at Hu Lao should already be retreating. I suspect Luoyang is being evacuated as well. You petty lords may stay here, but I shall save the Emperor.”

And with that both Cao Cao and Sun Jian leave the council and march out their armies. You are left in an awkward position... What do you? If the other two are successful in saving the Emperor and capital, all success and prestige lye with them. Yet you have nearly lost half the soldiers you came with, only 1800 men under your command. Leaving with Cao Cao and Sun Jian will also further anger Yuan Shao.

>march together with Cao Cao
>march together with Sun Jian
>stay with the other lords

>>457061
>>march together with Cao Cao

>>457061
>>stay with the other lords

We're turning no tides with our rolls and our prestige. Make it clear to Yuan Shao that we provide true advice and are not asskissers but we're still loyal

File: I implore you to reconsider.gif (2.86 MB, 480x270)

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>>457061
>attempt to coerce Yuan Shao to march out with you after Dong Zhou

"Yuan Shao, you must lead this effort or else Dong Zhou may very well escape with the Emperor as his prisoner!"

>>457061
>>stay with the other lords

>>457070
>basically told Yuan Shao we are his bitch
>said we would obey his commands
>now going against our principles and thoughts so we can retain his favor

>not being an ass kisser

u wot m8. Go with Sun Jian.

>>457076
No you don't understand what being an adviser is.

If you advise your commander to do one thing and he disregards your advice, you don't suddenly leave his service like a disloyal dog.

We are Yuan Shao's man. If we don't follow his lead we're betraying his trust. Sure, we voiced our true opinion that we believe he should pursue Dong Zhuo but he disregarded it. Snubbing him like this loses the only ally we've really managed to garner favor with who has influence.

>>457083
What this guy said. I'm not a fan of following Yuan Shao, but IC Zheng Li made a decision and he should stick with it, at least for a while.

>>457083
Why are we even in his service? The faggot is all the way in the north.

This shit still reeks of meta shit. We gonna serve Yuan Shao even though we said we wanted to be our own lord and man. Even if we are far from his territory we still gonna be with Yuan Shao because we know in history he takes the north then we can auto win.

Can we try winning by having a cool fucking character that faces tough challenge instead of boot licking fucking Yuan Shao.

Hell people were even saying we only ally with Yuan Shao so we can take over his kingdom when he dies and his sons bicker. The fuck.

>>457072
I suppose if this fails or doesn't carry through then I will support
>stay with the other lords

To disagree with him and yet still stay by his side seems like the honorable thing to do after what we had said and promised.

>>457061
>>stay with the other lords

>>457091

He's strong, we're weak, and we made friends with him during the rebellion.

File: Barrisan Sun Jian.jpg (39 KB, 1024x571)

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You sigh at the reluctance of the other lords, but remembering that you said you would follow Yuan Shao, you refrain from marching your troops out. You stay at camp with the other lords and for the next month you and your troops stay idle. You are informed more bickering occurs from the various other lords and some are even on the verge of fighting now, The coalition seems to be coming to an end.

News comes from the front. You are informed that Luoyang, the capital city has been burned down and the Emperor taken away to Changan as Cao Cao had predicted. The homes and towns of the civilians were plundered and the imperial tombs desecrated. Many soldiers and the common people cry and lament at the burning of Luoyang.

You also hear that Cao Cao was defeated near Hulao Pass by the forces of Lu Bu and Xu Rong. It was only by the efforts of Xiahou Dun and Cao Hong that Cao Cao barely escaped with his life.

Sun Jian on the other hand managed to defeat Lu Bu's tired retreating forces when he arrived. Most of Dong Zhuo's armies fled to Changan. You hear Sun Jian restored the graves and tombs of the Imperial ancestors at Luoyang.

More disturbing news comes. You hear rumors that Sun Jian found the Imperial Jade Seal at Luoyang. The seal is said to be a gift from the heavens and a mandate for the next great hero to ascend the throne. It seems the rumors may be true, as Sun Jian sends a letter stating he is retiring from the coalition and returning to Changsha.

Yuan Shao is infuriated at the news. When Sun Jian comes back the next week informing of his departure, another council is called where Yuan Shao points at Sun Jian and accuses him.

"Why do you hide the Imperial Seal from us Sun Jian!?" Yuan Shao calls out.

"I know not what you speak of," Sun Jian replies. "What is this seal you accuse me of having?"

"You dare lie to us!? You are an dishonorable bastard!" Yuan Shu calls out.

Swords are drawn. The elite guards that came with Sun Jian also draw their swords. Cheng Pu, Huang Gai, Han Dang, loyal and veteran warriors move to defend their lord.

What do you do?

>side with Sun Jian and tell the other lords to back off
>draw your sword as well and demand Sun Jian hand the Imperial Seal over
>keep away from the infighting

>>457117
Lords please. Dong Zhou is the enemy.

>>457117
>>keep away from the infighting

>>457117
>keep away from the infighting
follow with
>My lords, please! Should we fight amongst ourselves, we hand Dong Zhuo victory!

>>457117
>>keep away from the infighting
>attempt to diffuse the situation

>>457117
>keep away from the infighting
We cannot afford to fight amongst ourselves when the villain Dong Zhou still holds the Emperor hostage!

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You come in between Sun Jian and the other lords, attempting to diffuse the situation.

“My lords, why are we fighting with each other when Dong Zhuo still holds power? This is only favoring the villain. Let us withdraw our swords and talk. We must stand united if we are to stand against Dong Zhuo and save the Han.”

“What do you mean talk!?” Yuan Shao shouts out. “Sun Jian is holding the Imperial Seal so that he may gain power himself. He is lying to us, what good will more talk do if he will continue fibbing!?”

“I again do not know what you speak of,” Sun Jian calls out. “It seems I am no longer welcome here. I withdraw from the Guandong Coalition immediately. If you cowardly lords think to stop me, then you are welcome to try. My army shall break through any of yours. If you fear for your lives like many of you have done these past battles, then stay away from my path and no harm shall befall you.”

Sun Jian flicks his cape and leaves the tent while his guards follow behind.

“A traitor... How dastardly,” Han Fu says with a sigh.

“Speaking of traitor, what about you!” Zhang Yang calls out to Han Fu.

“What? Me? How am I a traitor?”

“You promised my army supplies and the commandery of Shangdang in support of this coaitlion, yet I have received neither. I wonder if you ever intended to give me what you promised!” Zhang Yang says yelling.

“And what of you Liu Dai!?” Gongsun Zan suddenly shouts out. “I have heard that your men have been raiding my lands. More tell me you are secretly allied with Yuan Shao!”

“Allied with me!? How dare you!” Yuan Shao calls out.

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Infighting and arguments have broken out. Try as you might, you cannot diffuse the situation between the lords. Perhaps it was never meant to be that the lords could come together. After all, each are seeking their own power and strength. The same can be said of you who held secretly talks with Yuan Shao.

The lords begin to disperse one by one. Each begin marching back to their homes with their troops. As the last of the lords leave, Yuan Shao hands placed behind his back, walk towards you.

“Zheng Li, your actions have made me question your loyalty,” Yuan Shao says. “Why have you not once, but twice went against my orders? Why do you pretend to wish to save the Han and destroy Dong Zhuo, when you were the one who suggested to me in the first place to take advantage of it and make my own power?” Yuan Shao eyes you. “In the near future, I expect you to follow my commanders without question. Else, why would I need a vassal who does not follow my commands and will side with other lords? Remember well where your loyalties lie,” Yuan Shao says as he shakes his head and leaves.

You realize that while you were doing your best to maintain things from a neutral stance, this itself was going against what Yuan Shao wanted. It seems Yuan Shao has become displeased with your lack of support for him with the other lords. Yuan Shao leaves the tent and marches back north himself.

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>>457175
You sigh in frustration as you too prepare to leave, having nothing to do here longer. Along the way you meet Zhang He who is marching troops home.

“Why the long face?” Zhang He says as he sees you.

“The coalition has been broken, and try as I might to keep it together, the lords have feuded and dispersed. I can already tell the lords shall not fight and take over each other's lands while the Imperial court in Changan will remain untouched.”

“A shame, yes,” Zhang He says. “I fear Ji province will fall under attack as well. Lord Han Fu is in for some desperate times... A peaceful man like he cannot prosper during these times. Lord Han Fu has treated me kindly but kindness itself cannot hold the realm. I wonder for the future of Ji.

It seems Zhang He might be doubting his position. Do you try to convince Zhang He to your side?

>>457177
Yes. Fuck yes.

>>457177
Yeah

>>457177
Yes.

>>457177
I would like to think we can make this a kind place again.

Your friendship with Zhang He through the battles you have fought together and his skills as a warrior and commander makes you consider adding him to your force. Perhaps now is the best opportunity, considering that he is having doubts about Ji.

"Zhang He, if you wish, why not follow me to Chen? I and the others would welcome someone like you in to our forces."

Zhang He rubs his chin at your offer.

"Well, your offer is an intriguing one but..."

He seems to be hesitating. What do you say further to convince Zhang He to join you?

>tell Zhang He Han Fu is a weak and foolish lord who doesn't deserve his service
>promise him glory and riches under your command
>speak to him of your ambitions to become more powerful

>>457200
>>speak to him of your ambitions to become more powerful

>>457200
>>speak to him of your ambitions to become more powerful

>>457200
>speak to him of your ambitions to become more powerful
I guess being honest will do. We need power to protect those in trouble. This world is going to hell and people are on edge.

>>457200
>>speak to him of your ambitions to become more powerful
And the need of men like him to keep us level and grounded.

>>457200
>>tell Zhang He Han Fu is a weak and foolish lord who doesn't deserve his service

>>457200
>>speak to him of your ambitions to become more powerful
AMBITIONS, SON

File: Zhang He2.png (470 KB, 631x898)

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“Junyi, I have long since held lofty ambitions in my heart,” you tell Zhang He. “I wish to see my name recognized. I want to expand my clan. I want to unite more lands under my realm and create a strong foundation for my kingdom. The Han has fallen in trouble as we have discussed and now is the time for strong leaders to take charge. I have had the fortunate of obtaining a small territory, but I am still in need of talented men to aid me.

Do you see yourself going anywhere under Lord Han Fu? A kind and considerate man he may be, but your skills as a general and warrior will forever be detained to simply defending Ji and fighting bandits. You would do much more under my command. Lead armies to conquer, to pacify territories, fight battles, and earn titles...

I think you would do far better with someone who would use you for more than guard duty. But this is a simple offer I give you, know that I take no offense should you refuse. I too would want to remain to my benefactor.”

Zhang He stays silent for a while, and then finally sighs.

“Your words speak true and strike at my heart. I have long wished to do more than what I have in Ji.” Zhang He clasps his hands and bows to you. “Very well Zheng Li. I shall follow you and serve under you. I will send a letter of resignation to Lord Han Fu.”

(+1 Cha)

Zhang He joins your cause.

-------------------------------

Part 9 end. Thanks for playing. As always, will state next session on twitter. Likely Monday again since it's the only day I really have off my work schedule.

https://twitter.com/RainsArpeggio

>>457237
How hard have we fucked up?

Don't forget to archive Arpeggio!

>>457237
Thanks for running, nice long session.

>Zhang He joins your cause.

Well now we're actually a force to contend with.

I think we need to head back to Chen and start recruiting and training ASAP, then look to conquer. Domestic stuff we can delegate later.

I suggest we target somewhere with some talented people that we'd like to poach. We need advisers and strategists.

>>457217
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6QhfkmEbQto ET FOOTAGE

That staying neutral thing dident go over well With yuan shao but how did sun jian feel about us trying to stop the conflict?

>>457257
Yeah the """"alliance"""" with Yuan Shao is dead but there might still be some hope for Sun Jian

>>457263
The alliance ain't dead until we choose not to fight for Yuan Shao. He's kind of petty but he doesn't really care about this little shit, he'll gladly take our help and reward us when he needs our forces in the north.

Alternatively we could aid Gongsun Zan against him. That's the beauty of the secret alliance - we won't be seen as disloyal if we side against Yuan Shao in the future, in fact us disagreeing with him is clever because we would have gained nothing by it (he will still ask us for help in the future) and it distances us from him in the eyes of the lords who are closer to us (Cao Cao won't immediately nuke us because he knows we've sided with Yuan Shao in the past).

>>457263
Piss on Sun Jian

File: yuan shu 3.png (345 KB, 720x400)

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>Zhang He joins your cause

>-900 Veteran, 200 Trained, 700 Adepts
Shouldn't the veterancy of our troops have gone up after that battle?

>>457466
Dying does not give you experience.

>>457568
Only a some of them died