“Could you ever go back to your old life?” You ask. “Working at a shop?”

“No...No I don’t think I could. Things were so...uneventful. Opening the shop, running it, going home to eat, close up shop. Rinse and repeat. It was so mundane thinking back. I don’t know how I managed to keep that up for so many years. Now I’m facing raiders, hearing about talking to spirits, avoiding curses. It’s like a story from out of the books. I didn’t...I didn’t even know such a life existed. Now I’m part of it. I fight evil. I’m being a hero. It’s like every kid’s dream.”

You pat Ming on the head. "Well perhaps you should look for that in the pools." You say. "Finding your place in the universe is the a tremendous task but if there is any place that can help you realize that it would be the pools."

"Oh...well I don't know." Ming says nervously. "I'm not even sure if I want to look at them. What if I don't like what I see?"

"I wouldn't worry." Xin Lan says. "At worst, you'll probably just see yourself married to someone really boring and have like 6 kids. Just be an average house wife."

"Oh gods. What if I do just become a boring house mom?" Ming asks.

"It's better than becoming a villian." You say. "Honestly Ming, I think you'll be fine. You're already taking your first steps to be more than the average person and I firmly belive that someone can change who they become. You've already seen it with with us. I'm sure you can do it too."

"We'll make sure you're a cool mom at least." Xin Lan says. "You can beat up whoever bullies your kids." Ming glares at Xin Lan.

"Ming, life isn't set in stone. It's a series of steps and you decide where those steps take you. Be it becoming a cool mother, a master alchemist, or something else entirely." You say gently. "You decide what you will become and the pools may show you one vision or nothing at all but at the end they are simply a way to focus and meditate. Through that meditation is where you decide, where you make up your mind not the other way around where the pools decide for you."

"Do you reallly think we can find the pools?" Ming asks.

"Sure. We've done crazier things." You say.

>What do you want do now?
>Ask Ming something else about herself?
>Go talk to someone else.
>Go to sleep. There's tons of time left before you head out best you get some rest.
>Write in.

>>4661069
>Go to sleep. There's tons of time left before you head out best you get some rest.
New thread, so I'm reminding myself to tell Hien about Oogway and Kai, Luo's story and give him the sword of heroes. Probably tomorrow to let him mull things over and talk to Xin like we suggested.

>>4661069
>Go to sleep
We need the rest. I'm in the opposite camp for Ming. I don't mind her being resourced based but if we're traveling then she'll always be a bit strapped, kneecapping her effectiveness. The way it is we can't really do anything with her aside from being a medic. Maybe having her magic mitigate that could help it feel like less of a non option.

>>4661069
>Get some sleep

>>4661140
Only if her resource is physically hard to get rather than time it energy based.

>>4661030
Thoughts on Drunken Boxing and Eight Gates? Would Tai Lung know of these techniques?

>>4661322
Drunken style, almost certainly.
Actually fighting drunk, probably not.

Yeah Tai Lung knows the 8 drunken Gods and their styles but he's never actually put it in to use let alone tried to do it drunk. So he knows how to go up against someone who uses it as a main fighting style but he's never made himself drunk and tried it. I figure if he tried it now, he'd be decent at it but very out of practice.

As for the eight gates like we disscussed in the previous thread? Not at all. He wouldn't even know how to start something like that. Tai Lung knows Chi for pressure point strikes and he's learned Chi healing and regeneration but nothing beyond that. Renshu might have a better idea as he's spent years using Chi and experiementing how to affect people's bodies with it.

Teaching Ming drunken boxing is possible though I don't think Ming would enjoy it very much if you intend to have her actually practice fighting drunk.
>>4661127
>>4661140
>>4661305
Getting some rest. Writing.

>>4661675
Oh she'd probably enjoy it plenty while training. It's the cool down that's hell

>>4661681
A drunk Ming sounds frightening.

You stretch a bit and yawn. "I understand the idea of seeing your true self and discovering who you are is a scary thing but this is something everyone must do if they want to discover their place in the world. For now, I think we should handle the situation at hand and if you have any questions I'll try to answer them as best I can." Ming nods. "I'm going to head to sleep. We have a long day to wait tomorrow before we can move out best I get some rest." You grab one of the sleeping bags and settle in for the night.

A few hours later, you find yourself waking up. The cave was cold even with the fire going. Opening your eyes, you see Xin Lan sitting next to your head peering into the fire. They're unmoving but you get the feeling they know you're awake. Sitting up, you move closer to the fire. "Hey." You say by the way of greeting as you pet the rabbit's ears.

Xin Lan doesn't return the greeting but instead asks, "Do you think Stripes is ok?" Slightly thrown off, you nod.

"I think he's fine. Our plan worked perfectly and he'd be able to hear anyone following the evacuation. Then Po and my father can step in." You say.

"I'm not sure." Xin Lan admits. "He can't defend himself the way he was."

"I'm certain your brother could pull something off if he really needed to." You assure your friend. "We have to belive in his strength too."

Xin Lan remains quiet. "...I don't want him to die again."

>What do you say?
>Tell Xin Lan that Renshu won't die. He's far to doting to allow something that would make their younger sibling upset.
>Tell Xin that everything will be alright. The evacutees might end up a bit worse for wear but they'll all be fine in the end.
>Say you that you don't really know what the other group is going through but its in times like these that you simply have to have hope.
>Write in.

>>4661757
>Tell Xin Lan that Renshu won't die. He's far to doting to allow something that would make their younger sibling upset.

>>4661757
>Tell him that Renshu won't die, He'd hate to make you upset.
>"Sometimes Xin, you just have to have faith. Not in luck or the dragons maybe but in those who are doing their jobs. Renshu, my father, the Dragon warrior and the guards are all capable fighters and we just need to trust them that they will do well. Our own efforts keep him safe by running interference, so have faith in us if you won't have faith in them."

>>4661773
>>4661777
Taking these. Writing.

"Renshu will be fine." You say smiling. "He's far too doting to do something that will upset you like that." You continue to pet Xin Lan's head. "Sometimes Xin, you just have to have faith. Not in luck or in the dragons but in those doing their jobs. Renshu, my father, the Dragon Warrior and the guards are all capable fighters and we just need to trust them that they will do well. Our own efforts keep him safe by running interference, so have faith in us if you won't have faith in them."

Xin Lan leans against you and rests their head on your side. "Yeah...I guess you're right." They say. "But I can't get this feeling that something bad is gonna happen."

"That just means you care about him." You say. "It's only natural you'd be worried about someone you're close to even if it isn't logical."

"Can I beat him up for making me worry?" They ask.

"That's between you and Renshu. Not that I don't doubt you can beat him but best that you don't. You'll set a bad example for Ming and she'll beat you up next time you tease her." You chuckle.

Xin Lan looks at Ming who was curled up in her bag, fast asleep. "Never mind. I don't want Ming swinging at me." They say. "Though she'd probably still do it." Xin Lan wiggles their toes on their injured leg. "Still hurts. Guess I'm out for a while too." They look at you. "You know, I don't like that Ming gets a free pass to get carried and the rest of us have to get hurt to get a ride." They say. "So I'm adding getting carried to the list of things you owe me." You roll your eyes.

"If you get drunk enough, I'll carry you home." You say.

"Isn't that the same as getting hurt?" They counter.

"You really want to be carried don't you?" You ask.

"Yes because it's my turn and because you're surprisingly comfy." Xin Lan admits. They look at the flames for a moment longer. "Fire is getting a bit small. Think we should make a quick trip outside to get some more fire wood?"

>What do you say?
>Say that it's best to stay inside. If Ming gets cold, you can give her another blanket. The rest of you can probably handle the cold.
>Say that you'll go out to get some. Xin can keep watch.
>Go wake up Hien. Take him to gather more firewood and supplies. Ming mentioned she ran out of healing ingreadients and used whatever she hand on hand for the trap.
>Write in.

>>4661895
>Take Hien

First rule of working behind enemy lines. Always work in pairs, so if you die then the other personspn can report how it happened.

>>4661895
>Go wake up Hien. Take him to gather more firewood and supplies. Ming mentioned she ran out of healing ingreadients and used whatever she hand on hand for the trap.

>>4661927
>>4661937
Taking Hien with us. Writing.

"I'll go get some." You say. "I'll take Hien and see if we can find some supplies. Ming's running low on medicine isn't she?"

"Try none at all." Xin Lan says pointing to their leg. "I didn't get anything for this and she had to cut a bit more. My leg is on fire right now." They say flatly. "See if you can find something to make tea at least. Ming's getting anxious. Something warm to drink might help her out." You nod and make your way over to the young lord. Hien was fast asleep with his back to a wall. His sheathed sword nestled in his crossed arms.

"Hey, Hien." You say gently nudging him. "Wake up." The young man stirrs and slowly wakes up, slightly confused before their eyes come into focus and they yawn. "

"Tai Lung." He says holding his blade with one hand and looking around. "Is something the matter?"

"We need to head out. We need more firewood and it's getting cold. Plus we need more medicines for Ming." You explain. "We're gonna need to get some while it's still dark out."

"Yes, it won't do if we become sick. It seems like my idea has failed. Nonethless, we'll have to adapt." Hein replies as they stand up. He fixes his sword on his belt once more. The two of you head out, following the cold drafts coming in from the cave entrance. As you exit, you see that night is beginning to wane and the stars in the skies are slowly fading giving away to the morning. "Perhaps we mistimed our exit. Morning will soon be upon us." Hien mutters.

"Even so, we have to gather supplies while we still can. As you said before, every enounter with the raiders is a chance to get injured. It's best we're prepared for that eventuality." You say crouching down to avoid being seen.

"True enough." Hien agrees. "Perhaps we should gather herbs first. It'll be much more quiet than gathering wood."

>What do you do?
>Gather wood first. Even if you pick up broken branches and break from fallen trees, they're still an armful to carry. It's best you do that first to get as many trips in before anyone notices or hears you.
>Gather herbs. Medicine is more important. Even if you get sick from the cold, some herbs can at least alleviate the symptoms. You think you can remember some of the plants Ming taught you a while ago.
>Go check on the raiders. It's still far from the intended time but you want to see what their up to. Hopefully they're not on alert.
>Write in.

>>4662122
>Get the medicine first.

Even a handful of wood is enough to make tea.

>>4662122
>Gather herbs. Medicine is more important. Even if you get sick from the cold, some herbs can at least alleviate the symptoms. You think you can remember some of the plants Ming taught you a while ago.

Getting lunch so I'll be away a while longer.

>>4662122
>Gather herbs. Medicine is more important. Even if you get sick from the cold, some herbs can at least alleviate the symptoms. You think you can remember some of the plants Ming taught you a while ago.
Healing is top piority.

>>4662335
That and it isnt like trees are hard to find. Just got to make sure we are aware of anyone trying to follow us.

>>4662139
>>4662153
>>4662335
Getting herbs. Writing.

>>4662416
Definitely clicked this vote too. Dunno why it wasn't added. Maybe I missed.

"Right. Best we have something to deal with injuries." You agree, nodding. "I know of a few Ming taught me. Shouldn't be too hard to find around here." The two of you sneak around the woods, crouched to keep your forms small and ears perked for any signs of the raiders. The dew on the grass quickly makes your fur damp and the cold begins to bite a little harder as soft breezes flow against you. Despite the lingering darkness of the dying night, you and Hien manage to see well enough. You begin to cut herbs and placing them in your pouch as you look for ones that match the pictures and destriptions Ming gave you before.

"There doesn't seem to be much around." Hien whispers. "Though it seems nature is blessing us with what little she can during the winter."

"This should be more than enough. Ming is the best medic I've ever met. Perhaps even the best medic who ever lived." You reply. "She can make miracles happen."

"You have a lot of faith in her." Hien remarks. "And her talent is obvious. What I wouldn't give to have someone as gifted as her at the palace." He says.

"Faith implies that I'm believing in her blindly. I've seen what she can do and I'm only speaking the truth. You are right however, she is talented beyond anything I've seen. I'm not sure how she would response if you attempted to hire her to work in the royal palace. No doubt she'd love to but I think her doubt will keep her from deciding."

"And I would not wish to deprive you of your friend." Hien says. "You are all close and I would not want to ruin that. However, I will assure her that the offer will always be available. There are others who would do anything to undermine her talents for worthless pay. She at the least deserves to be properly compensated for her gifts."

The two of you continue to cut and scrounge around the ground for herbs and roots when you hear the snapping of a branch nearby. Instinctively, you and Hien throw yourselves to the side and duck behind some trees before peeking out to investigate. In the distance you can see the bright glow of a torch and hear the faint sound of metal clinking grow louder as it approaches. Soon you see the forms of a squad of raiders wandering around. Judging by their looks, they did not seem lost and their alertness showed that they were on the look out for something. One of the raiders looks back at his group and begins barking orders as they all split up and begin searching the area. You glance over at Hien who was still studying them.

When he catches your eyes he points to the small satchels you were both carrying that contained the herbs. Perhaps he was indicating that this group was searching for medicinal plants too? Or did he mean that they would soon discover your presence because of the cuts you made in the grass?

>What do you do?
>Signal Hien to start backing off. Leave the raiders to their buisness and head back to the cave to regroup.
>Signal Hien to stay still. Leave your hiding spot and try to lure the raiders away.
>Tell Hien to keep hidden while you go and take out the squad. Best they don't accidentally find the cave.
>Split up and try to pull the group appart before you return to your hide out.
>Write in.

>>4662711
>Signal Hien to start backing off. Leave the raiders to their buisness and head back to the cave to regroup.
We need to make tracks leading to an direction away from the cave, ambushing then means they will know to search this area.

>>4662711
>Signal Hien to stay still. Leave your hiding spot and try to lure the raiders away.

>>4662711
>Signal for Hien to start backing away, but go a different direction than the cave.

Time for some tricky plays.

>>4662742
>>4663028
So...we sneaking away i think. Writing.

>>4663390
More like trying to misdirect the raidera by giving them wrong clues.

>>4663390
it's taking an obscure route back, so that even if they spot us moving in a direction, it isn't immediately going to tip them off as to our camps location.

>>4663402
>>4663426
Gottcha. Altering the write up a bit to adjust.

You eye the raider group as they kick around the grass looking for whatever it is they are looking for. Taking them out would be easy, but you’d alert the rest of the camp of something going on in this area. Instead, you signal Hien to back off and regroup. The two of you keep low and slowly back away, using the trees as cover while keeping the group in sight. The two of you half crawl, half crouch walk through the wet grass and group up behind the biggest tree you can find.

“What are the raiders doing here, I wonder.” Hien whispers as he keeps a lookout. “I’m certain neither of us were followed yesterday.”

“From what you said, gathering herbs?” You whisper in return. “Perhaps we dealt more damage to them than we thought.” You continue to eye the vague silhouettes in the distance. “We better head back and lay low for a bit. Let’s see if we can’t lead them in the wrong direction.”

“Do you plan to get their attention?”

“No. We’ll leave some tracks leading in the wrong direction.” You say. “That should at least throw them off for a bit. Get them to poke around in the wrong area.”

“Diverting their forces? Not a bad plan.” Hien says nodding. “By your lead.”

“Head east. Leave some tracks but nothing too obvious. Make it seem like whoever made them is trying to keep a low profile. I’ll head south. Two sets of tracks should be enough to confuse them or think that we split up. We’ll lead them around for a few hours then head back to the cave. I’ll see you back at the hideout.” You quickly make your way out, taking the long way around around the raiders and slowly working your way south. Occasionally you stop to roll and stumble, crushing blades of grass and disturbing low hanging branches off of bushes. You work your way through the forest, taking sharp turns to the right and taking the time to kick rocks out of the way, disturbing the dirt. Halfway through your given time, you stop and hang back as you hear more patrols nearby. You climb up a tree and peer out into the distance. 4 squads were wandering around the woods in a classic patrol formation before spreading out to cover more ground. Each squad had a full complement of troops to cover all situations. An archer, a heavily armored combatant, spearman, and sword and shield user. There were one or two squads with an extra member or that doubled up with another of the same troop. It’s possible that they had managed to track your group down or even worse, they might be looking for the evacuees.

>What do you do?
>Head back to the cave and move Ming and Xin. Leave a note or hint for Hien to follow.
>Find Hien and go get the others. The circle seems tightening around you.
>Continue with your plan. It should buy you some time to make a plan once you get back.
>Start picking off squads one by one to thin their numbers. Maybe you can pull the search around your area.
>Write in.

>>4663523
>Find Hien and go get the others. The circle seems tightening around you.

>>4663523
>Find Hien and the others

Odds they are captured and need prison break?
Not gonna lie, be pretty cool.

Right, so we are a couple of hours away from the town, with multiple squads all ready here and searching.

I'm inclined to believe that they are looking for the refugees rather than looking for us, because if they could follow our tracks they would have found our cave.

>>4663535
>>4663542
Finding hien. Writing

>>4663523
>Start picking off squads one by one to thin their numbers. Maybe you can pull the search around your area.
I will always vote for misdirection. Loving the guerrilla warfare arc.

>>4663660
Silly anon. You think they will last long enough for this to become a Gurrila operation, let alone a war.

You leap from tree to tree, trying to stay as quiet as possible while doing so as you search for Hien. You thank the spirits that you knew the direction Hien was going otherwise you’d spend just as long looking for him as the raiders. Halfway through your leaps you drop to the forest floor as you see a squad coming near. You roll upon landing and crawl as fast you can. Somehow the raiders were tipped off to come here. It couldn’t have been to find your friends so that only left the notion that they were looking for the evacuation group. You pick up the pace at that thought.

It takes you a bit longer to find Hien than you wanted as you avoided squads of raiders. The trail starts to grow cold as you continue. You realize that perhaps Hien had started lessening the trail to double back. You hear the rustle of leaves nearby and the young lynx leaps down from a nearby tree. “The woods are swarming with raiders.” He says. “Evidently we have made quite the impression on them.”

“I don’t think it’s us they’re looking for.” You say as the two of you begin to move to stay mobile. “They might be looking for the villagers. We’re several hours away from the town. If they were looking for us then why would they choose this area specifically?”

“I’m not sure. But don’t wish to imagine the villagers being in danger. However, it would be foolish to not consider it. What is your plan?” Hien asks.

“For now we retreat back to the hideout. We’ll have to discuss this with the others.” Hien nods and you make the journey back to the cave. It takes you about an hour to return as you work together to avoid raiders and leaving any tracks. The two of you forgo tapping as you enter, opting to dodge and deflect rocks thrown at you instead.

“Pack up everything important.” You say before Xin Lan could explain themselves. “We need to leave.”

“Why? What’s going on?” Ming asks, worried. You hand her the sack of herbs and roots.

“Not you. Can you help Xin with this medicine?” You ask. Ming nods. “Good. The raiders are searching the area. We don’t know if they found us or are looking for villagers that escaped. Either way, we need to move out or we’ll be trapped here.”

“Waitwaitwait.” Xin Lan says waving you down. “Forget the meds. We can deal with that later. Where exactly are we going? We can’t just run around.”

“Xin Lan is right.” Hien says. “We might be capable but Ming cannot travel without leaving tracks. We made efforts to prevent that when we first set up here. If we are going to move then we must have a location or we risk simply wandering around aimlessly and getting ourselves cornered. We need a plan.”

>What do you do?
>Be cautious. Wait til nightfall once more and use the cover of night to move out. The raiders might tighten their search around you but hopefully the darkness can let you slip through their patrols.
>Make a diversion. Either you or Hien can pull attention away from the caves while the others make a break for it.
>Head out now and make a run for it. You’re still faster than a set of squads and by the time they realize someone has traveled through the woods. You should be far enough away to slow and cover your tracks.
>Put yourself on the line. You’ve never done it before but use your Chi to take on Xin and Hien’s wounds. Then have them leave you in the cave as you meditate to focus your Chi to heal yourself. You don’t know how long it will take, it could be hours or it could be days but you need everyone at full strength to escape.
>Write in

>Where will you go?
>Head deeper into the woods. You can camp out there giving you a full range of escape options if you hear anyone approaching.
>Find another landmark to hide behind. You think you saw an outcropping of rocks you might be able to hide under for the moment just an hour or so away.
>Head in the direction of the evacuation. Try and regroup with them. They might need more help to circumvent the raiders. Or if you wish to try another attempt to slow the raider’s advance.
>Write in.

>>4663660
Thanks! I'm liking how it's going as well. Tried to do something different than just punching the bad guys. Now you can punch the bad guys while being sneaky about it.

>>4663699
Funny you should say that.

>>4663696
>Make a diversion, Time to start taking down squads to draw them to us.

>Have the others retreat to the evacuation, they may need help

We can just follow Ming and Xin's Chi signitures. It kills me that the best option isn't to FINALLY use our chi healing, but what can you do?

>>4663707
I will be man enough to admit it. I sometimes forget its a thing TL can do. Half the time I just left it as a write in possibility.

>>4663696
>Put yourself on the line. You’ve never done it before but use your Chi to take on Xin and Hien’s wounds. Then have them leave you in the cave as you meditate to focus your Chi to heal yourself. You don’t know how long it will take, it could be hours or it could be days but you need everyone at full strength to escape.
A good chance to practice this technique finally? Fuck yeah, brother. And the great thing about this is that Ming's medicine will be ready to assist us by the time we finish taking on the wounds of the others, presumably.

>Head in the direction of the evacuation. Try and regroup with them. They might need more help to circumvent the raiders. Or if you wish to try another attempt to slow the raider’s advance.

>>4663712
I think it's a case of always thinking "How immediately are we gonna get into another fight?"

But out of interest, what wounds does Hien have?

>>4663696
>Make a diversion. Either you or Hien can pull attention away from the caves while the others make a break for it.
Rearm traps and relocate them, than run straight to the camp dropkick an officer and throw a torch in whatever stockpile we find. If that doesn't get their attetion nothing will.
>Head in the direction of the evacuation. Try and regroup with them. They might need more help to circumvent the raiders. Or if you wish to try another attempt to slow the raider’s advance.

>>4663730
He's got a big slash on the side of his ribs from when you rescued him. Ming managed to stitch it up but a few hours later you started distracting the raiders. Plus a few bruises and nicks from the rescue as well that aren't impairing. You don't know if the fights and running have aggravated his wounds as he hasn't mentioned them again.

>>4663738
their camp is hours away. Not the best idea for us

>>4663739
We can take them, they sound like low level injuries shouldn't take us more than a few hours to heal off.

>>4663740
Well, then we find the biggest group and down their officer. It should attract attention and ruin coordination at the same time.
Do we think we have enough time to prepere the traps?

>>4663811
I don't, no. But the nearest officer? we can do that.

So what's the plan then. I think we swapped between diversions and healing. Luckily, regrouping the evac has won.

>>4663925
The plan seems to get everyone going toward the evacution convoy while we try to find a big group with an officer, down him and then retreat towards the rest, probably in an roundabout way so we don't lead the raiders back.
Maybe if we manage to pull it off without any injuries perhaps try another one. Also we should deaignate some meeting place so Xin can find us and lead towards the convoy in case we take too long? Since they are the fastest.

>>4663957
Gottcha. I do have to point out that Xin has a bad leg. Took and arrow to it and then surgery to get it removed without pain meds.

>>4663964
Well then scrap that part of my plan, we will have to find the group on our own.
Probably should only try to sneak attack only one officer too, so we aren't gambling on our luck too much, but we will have to aim for the biggest group we can find to compesate for it.

>>4663968
We won't need to find the convoy matey. If our friends make it, then we can just follow their soul trail.

>>4663957
This plan is roughly on the money. Drop an officer and his squad, get the other raiders to give us a roundabout chase then fuck off while they are still trying to understand just where we are.

An hour or so should let our group flee well enough.

Alrighty. I'm gonna make some food then I'll do the write up.

>>4663990
Oh yeah I forgot we can do that. And that we could astral project too, or ask the little sprite that follows us.

>>4664080
Maybe I should post a character sheet. I had one in like the second thread but I never kept up with it.

"We're regroup with the evacuation. If the radiers are searching around with such a large group then the others will need our help if they get caught." You say. "Hien, you and Xin will lead Ming back to the main convoy. I'll hang back and try to hold their attention. I'll catch up to you when I can. Keep an eye out for the raiders and try to lead the group away from them when you meet up. Even if it takes a few days longer to get back to Taishi, it'll be worth the delay if it means you're not found."

"You're crazy." Xin Lan says. "You think we're just gonna leave you?"

"Sorry. But you're gonna have to wait a bit longer for me to carry you." You say.

"You know that's not the point." Xin Lan snaps back. "We've already left Stripes behind. We're not leaving you now."

"You're going back to Renshu." You counter. "You're not abandoning anyone."

"It's not about the math! It's about the principal of the thing."

"I already say I'm going to catch up to you guys." You say. "If we all go then we're a bigger group and we're make it risker to get caught. If one of us draws their attention then it takes the burden off the others and considering you're injured and Ming doesn't have experience in trackless travel then this is the best chance we have getting through here in one piece. Besides, you know even if you were ok, I'd never ask you or anyone else to do this."

Xin Lan stamps their foot, despite it being injured. Dust rises from the impact and blood begins to stain the bandages around their leg. "I don't care! Then you should know I'd still tell you not to do it."

"If you have a better plan then tell me. You know I'm always open for one." Xin Lan's only reply was to make a frustrated sound and look away. You look at the others, who were waiting on you with concern written on their faces. "I'll be fine." You assure them trying to alleviate their concerns. "We've done this one on a larger scale. Now I'm just going to do it on a smaller one. I'll find the biggest one of the lot and take him out. That should rile them up and make them follow me. I'll be their only lead."

"If that is what you wish to do then we cannot stop you." Hien says quietly. "But we won't leave happy."

"If you're alive and well then I'm willing to be the focus of your ire." You reply as you grab a few rations and you bag. "Listen for fighting then leave when you think there's an opening. Don't wait for me. Don't hang back to see if you can help." You start to make your way out of the wave when you hear the sound of something cutting through the wind. Turning swiftly, your hand snaps up and catches both of Xin Lan's daggers, tied together with a thin wire. The rabbit glares angrily at you.

"If you die then I'll make Stripes find you and bring you back so I can never forgive you." They say before turning their back to you. Ming hurries over to help with their bloody leg. You nod.

"I don't doubt that you'd do it." You say before heading off. As you reach the mouth of the cave, you can already hear sounds of raiders in the distance as they continue their search.

>Where do you head to?
>Head to the area with the most squads in it. You should find a liutenant there.
>Go to one of the areas with the least ammount of raiders. If someone is a leader in the raiders they must be a strong fighter and thus would be asked to work with a smaller group.
>Head straight to the enemy camp. You're bound to find someone on your way there.
>Write in.

>>4664211
>Head to the area with the most squads in it. You should find a liutenant there.
If this was an (non-lethal) assassination we would go for the camp ot after the strongest one, but since we want to attract as much attention as possible at once, heading to the largest group will have to do.
Hopefully downing an officer in front of the rest will futher drop their morale too.

>>4664310
Support

>>4664310
>>4664597
Going to the busiest area. Writing.

You leap back on to a tree branch to look out for raiders. If you were going to grab the attention of the scouts then you needed to make the biggest impact and to do that you had to find the largest group of them. It really wasn't difficult to find them. With the raiders on the search, they had no reason to conceal themselves, especially if they were searching for someone they though couldn't fight back. You leap from branch to branch, keeping off of the ground as you hurry over to the largest group.

https://youtu.be/nMX5nw7-E_Y

To the raiders, it must have happened in a flash. There was the rustle of leaves followed by an angry roar as you rocket towards the largest of them. A rhino. You thrust out both your feet as you drop kick the man in the face. His head snaps to one side from the impact but he turns and spins to roll with the hit and maintain his balance. By then you're already scrambling to a stop and rushing to attack once more. You ram your fist into the rhino's rock hard abdomen though it was less of a punch and more of a battering ram. With a loud roar you raise your fist while still sunk in, slowly lifting the rhino over your head before you turn and slam him headfirst into the ground. A crater forms from the impact and you dash past the stunned party but not before you clothesline, mostly out of spite, the nearest raider and leaping into the bushes once more. Your stunt had the, if not delayed, intent you sought as you heard shouting and the sounds of running behind you. You keep your pace to a light jog, staying out of sight but giving them enough leeway that your easily track able. You leap out of the bushes once more infront of another group.

You run at another, spin and deliver a high kick right under the man's chin. The raider is lifted 4 feet from the ground and you turn with the kick to turn and smash both plams into his chest. The impact tears the raider from his armor as he crashes into a tree, knocking it down with a loud crack! The previous group manages to catch up with you and they join their brothers in their attempt to stop you. You duck under a sword swing and block the follow up shield slam just in time to tear it out of the raider's grasp and use it to block a series of arrows flying towards you!

The swordsman is knocked unconcious as you headbutt him and before the archers can fire again, you hurl the shield at them, hitting on in the arm and knocking the bow out of his hands. The rest fire upon you but you roll out of the way and in the cover of trees to begin the chase once more.

The next group didn't have the luxury as back up as you pounce on one, grab their arms and swing them around, knocking his companions aside before ending it by slaming them into the ground ontop of one of their fallen friends. By the time the others arrive, you were long gone. The shouts begin to grow louder as more and more raiders begin to converge on your position. Judging from the shouts, you guess they were trying to go the long way around and try to surround you.

>What do you do?
>Leap on to the trees. You can use the branches to go over the raiders.
>Fight through the blockage. Force you way past and leave a trail of bodies behind.
>Stand your ground. You wanted their attention and now you have it. Time to see if you can hold it.
>Write in.

>>4665262
>Leap on to the trees. You can use the branches to go over the raiders.
But than attack them from behind, prioritize the archers and skirmishers.

>>4665262
>Use the branches to strike from above

We can leap over 50 feet in the air with a swing, I'm pretty sure we can yeet our way behind their lines or attack from above.

>>4665286
>>4665326
Monkey style to escape and flank. Writing

You leap 20 feet into the air and kick off from the trunk of the tree. Bark and splinters fly off from the force of the impact, showering the ground below as you soar through the air. You repeat the process to race through the forest far above the unsuspecting raiders. To you such a feat was as easy as walking. To anyone who chanced a glance up, all they could see was the trees rustling as if an unfelt wind had blown by. Once you cleared the last of the raiders, your tail flicks out and wraps around the nearest branch. The sudden stop swings you around the trunk to the tree and, once you were facing the opposite direction, you let go. You sling shot yourself back towards the raiders.

The archer never heard you coming. You slam into the man with such a force that he simply smashes into the ground, unconscious long before he hit it. His partner, turning only because of the sound of an impact, screams as you grab a handful of arrows from your victim’s quiver and drive them all into his thigh. A loud crack follows when your leg collides with his head a moment later when you stand. The rest of his squad turns around to face you but it was too late. You grab two of them by the throat and they go down when you slam their heads together. Fear grips the lone survivor as he sees a behemoth of a man approach him. He flees into the woods and you don’t break your stride as you follow. He wasn’t your real target. He was simply guiding you to the next group. If not, his panicked screams would attract more of the raiders.

Your predictions come true in the form of a hammer strike towards the head. You quickly duck, your instincts kicking and you turn to see a large chunk of the trunk missing. A large boar comes barreling towards you intent on striking you and recovering his thrown hammer. Rather than move out of the way, you meet his charge. The two of you collide, the sound of flesh crashing together echoing through the woods. The both of you lock arms, intent on pushing or dragging the other to the ground. More and more raiders begin to pour in but do not move in to strike. Their faces are full of malice and eagerness and you realize that you might have found your lieutenant. Turning back to go face to face with the boar you see him smile evilly but much to his surprise, you grin back.

>What do you do?
>Pull the boar to the ground. If he wants to wrestle then you’ll obliged.
>Strike at the boar’s vitals. Kidneys, liver, eyes. Anything is fair game.
>Overpower the man. Show him what real strength is.
>Break free from the grapple. Grab the hammer and use it against the boar.
>Write in.

>>4665710
>Write in.
Supplex.
And snap his hammer.

>>4665710
>Use what you've gleaned of Xin's style to cripple him without chances of him dying. Make it so that he couldn't hurt a fly even if he wanted to. That should send a message to the rest of them.

>>4665710
>Strike at the boars vitals, including his groin and joints. Leave him a completely broken mess.
>Dragon roar when we are done, it should scare them into running

It's time to systematically break him down as a message. Some may consider this too extreme, or evil even, but fear is going to break their pursuit more than anything else.

>>4665731
>>4665734
Damn. Thats pretty dark. Can't remember the last time we did something like that.
Might have been with Xin? Or the wolf bandits. Not even to Jianguo. Wasn't this the exact thing you've been trying to get Renshu not to do? But votes are votes.

>>4665788
Hey, war is war. This guy made his choice to go out and invade another country. If it strikes fear into them, then I'd say it's worth it.
Besides, what good is a redemption arc without a few slips?

>>4665805
They did hurt two of the three from best girl squad I'll give you that.

>>4665813
Yeah. They've hurt his friends. They've hurt Hien, who he's starting to like. If given the chance, they would slaughter Ming. And right now he's in the thick of the action, adrenaline pumping, the scent of blood is in the air - Tai lung is a born predator, to ignore that in the middle of a fight would be monumentally hard. At the end of the day, those ruthless instincts were always part of him, even if he tries to suppress them these days.

I'm gonna get some food then ill get back to write.

>>4665788
I still want an supplex. We got an audience, it's the perfect time to WWE this.

>>4665837
But if the cripple vote wins, could it atleast not be too severe? Like break his arms and legs, but the shit can still be recovered if he spend months in bed rest?
Making a paraplegic out of an nomadic sheppard might as well be killing him.

>>4665855
You know the scene in The Dark Knight Returns where batman fights the leader of the mutants and just systematically breaks him down in the mud pit? I was gonna go with that. Clean breaks but nothing that'll be permanent. Bit more of a mix of both rabbits but still does the job.

>>4665880
That will work fine, time to put the fear of dragons in their heart.
Actually, would it be a good ideia to do a roar after we are done? Just to completly destroy their morale.

>>4665894
TL certainly is becoming the dragon of domija. He just needs to take the dojima name. Anyways foods almost ready so I'll be away for a bit.

https://youtu.be/C-USb8-NMnQ

The boar pushes forward, his muscles bulging as he puts all his weight forward. The raiders hoot and hollar as your slowly pushed backwards. Your feet slide backwards only because the dirt underneath gave away as he forced movement upon you. You body remains unmoved as you slide across the ground and finally you grow tired of playing the fool. You tense up and all movement stops as your body grows rigid. It's as if you were attached to the very ground it self. Rooted in place like a great tree, you refuse to move no matter how much the boar tried to push against you.

The raider struggles in vain, his hands gripping your biceps tightly, but to no avail. As easily as you stopped yourself, you tear free from his grip and lean back. Grabbing the man's wrists, you pull him towards you just as you lean forward, directing his nose right into your headbutt. There's a crunching sound and you feel something hot and wet splash against your head. Crimson blood pours down your forehead, around your nose and down your cheek. The raider groans but resists going for his nose and you step forward. You wrap your arms around the boar and pull him into a hug before bending over backwards and slamming his head into the ground. You let him go and get to your feet. "Since your so eager to fight." You say wiping the blood from your face. "We do it on my terms." You grab the hammer from the floor and snap it in two. The boar's eyes widen as you hold the head between both palms and crush it as easily as brittle clay. You toss the crumpled metal heap behind you and draw both of Xin's blades, slipping them onto your fingers. "You got chance after chance after chance. Now it's time to see what happens when you push a man who can fight back."

With a growl you dash towards your opponent, hands at your temples to block, hunched forward and ready to strike. The boar gets to his feet and strikes, thrusting his palm out to catch your chin but you had moved, almost imperceptively so, and the attack only grazes the fur of your cheek. You grab the man's wrist and hold his arm straight as you throw and uppercut into the raider's elbow. There's a sickening pop as the bones come apart at the joint. The crowd goes silent as the would be champion, their ace in the hole, screams in agony as he clutches his useless arm. You slap the man across the face, breaking his stance and punch him in the back right in the shoulder blade. The bone slpits like a china plate under the impact of your strength and the unnaturally resilient blades of your friend. The boar falls, his arm utterly ruined and you take your chance to stomp down on his shin breaking that as well.

The silence is broken as the raiders watch you grab the boar by the scruff of the neck and they groan when you pull his arm behind him and another pop follows. Dislocated arm in your hand, you throw the boar down face first into the dirt. You roar as you raise you iron knuckled fist and bring it straight down into the poor man's ankle, shattering it. Some of the raiders turn away, unable to look at the surgical brutality you were inflicting upon your opponent. The bravest among them continue to watch but still hesitate to join in and assist. Tossing the daggers aside, you grip the man by the throat and lift him with one hand. As you pull his bloodied face close to yours you say, "Listen and listen well. You might not understand me but I know there has to be one scumbag among this rabble that can. So when they carry your broken body back to your leader. When she asks what happened. You tell her this. China is off limits. It's people are off limits and she just crossed a line she won't be coming back from. You're in my territory now and you've used up every last ounce of goodwill I had. I'm coming for her and she had better pray to whatever Gods she has. I'm the oncoming storm, the fury of the dragons, I am Tai Lung and there isn't anyone in your army that can stop me. I hope for your sake you can understand me otherwise she's in for a rude awakening."

To your suprise, the boar nods weakly, tears cleaning his bloodstained face. You roar with the might of a dragon and toss the broken man at the nearst group. The raiders, unsure whether to catch their wounded comrade and risk injuring more or to step aside and not get hit, fail to move out of the wait and collapse under the weight of the man. You flick your hand clean of blood, pick up your friend's daggers, and make your way back to the woods. The raiders in your way step aside, too terrified to do anything to stop you, too frightened to even consider the thought that they were letting you get away. All they saw was a monster, a dragon barely contained in the flesh of a mortal man.

>Where do you go?
>Head back to the cave. Gather what little supplies there might be left.
>Go find your friends. They might be close by.
>Go to find the evacuees. The others will catch up to you eventually.
>Write in.

>>4666033
>Use our spirit sense to catch up to ming

>>4665788
No. The context is different, as was written in the update they have had chance after chance after chance to stop coming, we bloodied their nose in a night raid, we broke limbs and hit them with putrid gas in their next assault and now we've brutalized a man to intimidate a hundred others into staying the hell back.

The actions taken are similar to what Renshu was going to do, but his was an instinctual vice in a dream done to a defeated opponent while this is closer to just being a slightly more focused effort of our usual doctrine.

>>4666033
>Go find your friends. They might be close by.
Holy shit that was brutal.
>>4665903
Well, Kiryu never killed anyone is nearly a saint, so that wouldn't be far off.

>>4666356
,and is*
Fucking captcha eating parts of my post.

>>4666356
Brutal. But required.

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>>4666366
It definitaly is. The supplex and hammer shatter together with the breaking of the bones ended up mixing really well.
But it also was brutal in the cool meaning of the word, it was fucking beatiful.

>>4666092
>>4666356
Going back to Ming and the others. Writing.

The woods were quiet, almost oppressively so, as you make your way through them to get to your friends. Finding Ming and Xin Lan wasn't difficult. Their presence, not quite Chi nor spirit, burned brightly through the thick trees and undergrowth and though it was a small spark in at this distance it was still easy enough to follow. The sounds of the raiders had faded away sometime ago and you were certain none would dare make a move against you now.

You travel for about half an hour before you catch up to your friends. You hear the sound of a blade being unsheathed, "Who goes there?" Hien calls out. "Ally or foe, I give you one chance to reveal and explain yourself." You step out from the trees, hands in the air.

"It's just me." You say. Hien exhales a sigh a relief and sheathes his blade.

"You're safe." He says.

"Anyone coming after us?" Xin Lan asks from Ming's arms. You shake your head and stride closer to the group.

"No. I think they'll be too busy carrying their injured back to camp." You say. "In any case, we should continue moving. The evacuees have already made quite the distance and we should go farther out before we set up camp." You all move out, the others still somewhat wary of another attack but you continue to make progress away from your old base. Darkness falls a while later and you all settle down to make camp in a large tree, hollowed out by years of decay. Ming manages to make a small fire, big enough to keep you all warm through the night but small enough to keep safe and conceal within the tree's trunk.

"How much farther do you think the others are?" Ming asks as she pulls a blanket around her and eats some of the cold rations. You didn't dare make a bigger flame to cook, not unless some of the raiders decided that they still had a chance. Alone perhaps, Gods willing, you could probably handle a majority of them maybe even succeed against the whole army if not ultimately succumbing to wounds but with friends, it gave them other targets forcing you to divert your focus around too much.

"I don't know." Hien admits. "At their rate of travel, I would assume we can meet up with them once more in a few more hours tomorrow. After that, it's only a matter of reaching Taishi for safety."

"With Shifu and Po we should be safe for the rest of the journey." You say as you quietly chew your food, mind on other things. "That's four fighters to cover the four cardinal directions. Renshu and Xin will be able to keep an ear out for trouble."

"I just hope the Five arrive soon." Ming admits. "Then we can finally defeat the raiders and put and end to all this."

"Yeah. Though that does bring up the question." Xin Lan says. "What are you gonna do after all this?" They ask Hien.

The young lord looks back from keeping watch through the small opening in the tree trunk. "Me?" He asks surprised. "I...suppose I'd return to the Forbidden City and resume my duties...and perhaps receive a rather large verbal lashing from my siblings." He says with a weak chuckle. "What about you? Mine is fairly obvious. Yours however is quite the mystery. Where does a wanted man and his friends go?"

>What do you say?
>Say that you'll simply wander and deal with any troubles you come across. It's what you've been doing the past year.
>Say that you're not sure. This whole raider buisness has kind of taken precedent.
>Say that you'll head to the sacred library. You have need of their vast wisdom.
>Write in.

>>4666809
>The sacred library is our goal. If you must increase security because of that knowledge, at least give them the good sense to not attack first.

Make it a bit of a joke. But the library was our goal before this

>>4666809
>Say that you'll head to the sacred library. You have need of their vast wisdom.
Gotta find them pools, we may have achieved inner peace, but we still have a lot of soul searching to do.
Invite Hien too, he seema to be troubled, could do good to him.
>>4661127
Still haven't forgotten of this list. I swear that I will do it eventually.

>>4666863
So what was thinking is that the whole talk about what kinda of person Tai Lung likes could have made him realise he still doesn't know what he really wants in life. So the pools of reflection could help him with it.

>>4666875
>Ho great warrior, why do you come to the pools of eternal reflection, to gaze into your very sooooooooul!
>TL: I just want to know what sort of porn I'm into.

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>try to have a child with xin and call him caerbannog

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>>4666880
>The Pools: Yes
>TL's face when

>>4666898
Truly china's newest threat.

>>4666875
Honestly, I always figured TL was more of "I love who I love and it'll happen when it does. Be it guy or girl, bunny or cat."

But we all know whoever it is, Shifu is gonna be surprised.

>>4666898
With Shen's death, no one will be able to great a weapon capable of stoping him.

Now I'm wondering. Is TL the kind of guy who cares about his lineage and legacy and would want a kid or is he content enough with the idea his friends will carry it in for him with his ideals.

>>4666915
But now seriously, what I was trying to say is more like he realizing that after all of his life spent training and in prison, he doesn't have any idea what he wants in his future in general, and that conversation was a sort of catalist for the epiphany, instead of "I don't know what make peepee hard, better look at the magic pond".

>>4666925
I say that we try to have a child just to see tai trying to raise him and go through all that also it would help tai a lot to leave the past behind and have a goal

>>4666928
I get ya and I think its a pretty good idea. TL's quest is over...kinda. He's redeemed himself in his eyes. Maybe not in China's but he is more or less a good man. That goal now evolving into what he wants to do in the future is a good step forward. Be it having snow bunny hybrids or simply enjoying Renshu's company the rest of his life. Jokes aside it could be a good goal for next "season's" arcs. Maybe a time skip to him owning a dojo or building his mountain home. There's already a pretty big time jump in the works but thats just to develop Ming's skills and spend time with the gang.

>>4666925
I think Tai is sort of like Renshu in that he doesn't really desire or "deserve" that sort of reward, a child of his blood.

His legacy would be carried by his friends and his skills will either die with him or be passed to the worthy who manages to convince him to teach. Actually raising a son I don't see him doing, since I think he's just unable not that it wouldn't be adorable to see him try.

>>4666942
Timeskipping to house would be aight. Perhaps a vision from the pools will reveal the perfect spot.

>>4666831
>>4666863
Counting votes. Writing but no need to stop the conversation

>>4666942
For a goal. . . Our quest for personal redemption is done but I think in between a few months of rest and training in that new house, we would have to head out again and continue to wander and help for one very good reason.
Renshu.

His own quest is to be a good man within 7 years, and to have made an exceptional turn around in 13 and once we breach that mark the man can go about his life until his natural death. Until said point, I don't feel comfortable stopping unless he has helped save china itself twice over, because Hell is not something you gamble with.

And Daiyu would kill us for keeping ming all to ourselves.

>>4666942
A timeskip would be nice after the poola if nothing important comes up.
But it still long ways off, like beating the raiders, adding the leader to our party like a shounen were the enemies become an ally, stopping the invasion, discovering a conspiracy if there is one, revealing the past of Tai Lung heritage.
You know the whole deal.

>>4666963
>>4666965
That's cute.

>>4666966
Nah, she needs to go to jail to think about what she did. And pray that the mongols aren't the sort to make "I'll only marry the guy who bests me in combat" oaths.

>>4666966
Yeah, I need to get to the part where TL is actually part demon and dragon, Ming is some kind of goddess, Xin is the child of the greatest demon in hell and Renshu was evil all along was behind the destruction of his assassin organisation.

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>>4666963
>>4666965
I absolutely love those. Wish I knew someone to commission art from but thats expensive too. Did some searching out of curiosity and found the perfect image for stripes.

>>4666942
We must fulfill the greatest duty that a son has to a father which is to give him grandchildren to pamper and be the best grandfather

Based according to my father and mother hehehe God seriously pamper my daughter and son too much and I always the bad one ... I can't wait to have my grandchildren

>>4666987
Shifu seems like the type of grandad who isnt sure what to do, leans down to make them laugh then gets his whiskers torn off again.

Or alternatively, the one who laughs.

>>4666973
Was more thinking that we were the son of some northerners that died in a raid and we have a sibling that vowed revwnge against China, ending if a climatic showdown in a thunderstorm.
>>4666972
I'm not sure, Hien did say that the problem was that the realation between the nomads and the chinese was bad because of bad blood, so I thought making one of them repay their debts by becoming a hero, and warming up to China could lead to better reaktions in the future.
Also she would be a prisoner of war than a normal criminal right? Dungeons are fucking aborrent.

>>4666974
When I qent to aearch for a image of Tai Lung to photoshop a meme, there were pages of Lung x Tigress pregnant, so I appalud your strength boss.

>>4666996
Unfortunately yes. As of know, if you had asked Hien, the raiders are all charged with insurrection now that it is known they possess scrolls containing imperial secrets and they plan to use it against the royal family. What the Empress will do to the raid leader is anyones guys though as Hien points out, she'll put her nation's interests first before anything.

we are already a fugitive we can continue wandering let's do like sun wukong after the pools let's point out a cardinal point and see what is in that direction until we leave china

>>4667009
I don't think we can hand her over unless we get the assurance from Hien that the execution would be quick or they wouldnt be tortured. Do our due diligence.

We cant not hand her over, but we should at least exact what promise we can from him.

>>4667027
You can definitely ask him. However hien doesn't have the power to change her sentencing. He can certainly talk to his sister but she has final say. Also sending hien to speak to his sister means he can't come along with you as he has to journey back to china's capital to do it.

“We’re heading to the Sacred Library. We have need of their vast knowledge.” You say and you chuckle as you add, “But if knowing that means you gotta send troops to boost security then can you at least instruct them not to attack on sight?” Hien gives you a smile. “If I can get through my siblings verbal assault I will endeavour to let them know. However, seeing as they tend to go on for a while, I might accidentally forget to tell them of your whereabouts.” He replies and leans against the tree. Xin Lan snorts and stretches with a yawn.

“Well that’s assuming we find it first. All we know is that it’s in the mountains.” They admit with a tired nonchalance. “I guess most of the journey is figuring out where it actually is.” They put their arms behind their head and relax a bit more. “Of course before all that we need to survive new years. Otherwise Ming will kill us if we skip it.”

“Yes I will.” Ming replies, pointing her spoon at Xin Lan. “We all promised we’d celebrate it together and even if it means looking at the stars at night around a fire then so be it but I won’t let you forget it.” Xin Lan sticks their tongue out at her and mutters something about making sure she doesn’t forget their birthday. Hien for his part simply looks amused and turns to ask.

“What exactly do you need from the Sacred Library?” Hien asks. “There are plenty of other libraries that would be suitable for general knowledge so I’m assuming there must be something you’re looking for that can’t be found elsewhere.” Xin Lan and Ming exchange looks but Hien keeps his gaze on you, curious yet somewhat cautious. You’re not certain if he really wants to know out of genuine curiosity or if he’s trying to ascertain whether or not to follow through with what you suggested.

You set down your flask of ice cold water. It’s contents refreshing you and making you a bit more awake. “We seek the Pools of Contemplation.” You say finally. “It is a journey I started alone about a year ago when I escaped. They say that one can study their own soul in true and utter peace there. I wish to go and see if I have truly become a changed man. My friends' reasons are their own but I appreciate their company more than anything. Perhaps they might find some answers there to their own questions and whatever it is they want to seek in them I will assist them. “Many think the Pools are a legend. I’m not sure myself if they are real but the truth is that only the Sacred Library holds the answer to that question.”

“And if they are a myth? If they truly do not exist? What then?” Hien asks as he tilts his head, now in genuine curiosity. You shrug, truthfully you never actually gave thought to the idea that perhaps your journey would end without answers. To call it a failure would diminish the progress you and your friends made. “I don’t know.” You answer truthfully. “Perhaps I will go wander China some more with my friends. Perhaps I might open a dojo under a false name. I have no intent on returning to prison. Not when my skills could be used for the betterment of others. Maybe its a selfish desire but one that has saved countless lives. Perhaps…” you say with a small grin. “I’ll go and search for someone to marry. All these questions have brought up some faults in my own personal upbringing.”

“I see.” Hien says quietly but continues no further. Ming and Xin Lan simply sit there looking at you and Hien, unsure what to add to the conversion without divulging any information that you would not want to.

>What do you say?
>Ask Hien about the raiders. What will he do with them? Will he kill them on the spot? Execute them for their crimes?
>Ask Hien about returning home. Does he really want to? It seems that he has always wanted to step out of his sibling’s shadows despite his protests to the contrary.
>Ask about the scrolls. What does he plan to do with them? You certainly aren’t allowed to carry them.
>Write in.

>>4667173
>Ask him about the raiders
>Ask about returning home.
>Tell him the tale of Oogway and Kai, Luo's story and give him the replica sword of hero's. A memento for a paragon.

>>4667173
>Ask Hien about returning home. Does he really want to? It seems that he has always wanted to step out of his sibling’s shadows despite his protests to the contrary.

>>4667191
Support.
I've been shilling that idea for days and ended up not being the guy to put to vote, ironic right?

>>4667191
>>4667205
>>4667226
Taking these. writing

>>4667230
Something came up write up will take a bit longer

>>4667191
What if we told him it was the true sword of heroes?
>"A true hero does not cut down all in their path. The obstacles in front of him are given a chance to part before him, and a chance to become better than they once were. One can never take back a life taken."

>>4667293
It's better not lie. But we can tell that Luo himself gave it to us, that's a half-truth atleast.

>>4667300
Not lie, just philosophize.

>>4667307
I should clarify what I mean.
True =/= original.
The original sword of heroes is the one of legend, but also a regretted mistake. A weapon that can only shed blood and take lives. Though it is the most well known by a longshot, it would not be right to call it a weapon of heroes.
The true weapons of heroes do not claim lives, they preserve them. That is why the second sword could be considered the True one.

>>4667319
Well, as long we make it very clear to him that is philosophy, I don't see a problem with it.

It'd be interesting to see what you guys do with it. As it is right now, it does cut as any sword does but because it's meant to be an ornament piece, it's horrible at retaining an edge and it's cutting power is not the best.

>>4667410
Make it blunt. I want to see Hien become like the swordman from that japanese puppet anime/show that uses a stick to sword people.

>>4667423
I think I know the one...zatch bell? Haven't watched it though. I think Shaman King had the MC weild a wooden blade. And I think Yuyu hakusho had a guy who channeled Ki into his wooden sword to make it sharp.

>>4667456
Know I'm talking about thundebolt fantasy. Had to google to find out what it is.
Never watched it, but a webm keep getting posted in filename threads of one of the scenes of the sworddude cutting a sword with a stick and it looks neat.

>>4667486
Making hien some kind of samurai warrior who can choose to channel chi into his blade to turn it into a lethal weapon or choose to use a nonlethal blunt blade sounds awesome.

"What about you?" You ask turning the conversation around. "Do you really intend to just return home? From what you've said, it seems like you want quite the opposite. A chance to prove yourself to everyone and step out of your sibling's shadows." You say. Hien gives you a wary smile. "I'm afraid you're incorrect." He says politely. "I simply wish to stop the raiders from attacking my country. I am not here out of desire to acheive fame or renown. I'm simply here out of duty to my people. Here because I alone can circumvent the politcal and social roadblocks that prevent my family from bringing the full might of China's armies down upon them."

"Come on." Xin Lan says dubiously. "You can't tell me that you're ok with being the one son of the emperor no one remembers. Or that you're ok that you'll be relegated to just watching in the shadows." Hien nods. "That is exactly what I intend to do. By remaining within my sibling's shadow I am free to do what needs to be done to keep China safe. I'm free to attend to whatever issues they cannot." Xin Lan scoffs. "As you've said, I am just the average child of the emperor. My sister and brother are far more talented than I and deserve the positions they hold. Nonetheless I will not sit idly by when I can serve my nation. This is the duty of my family and one that I will uphold with pride and honor."

"Then what about the raiders?" You ask. "Will you simply execute them? Kill them where they stand?"

Hien hesitates and nods. "...yes. If I must. That is what I am bound to do. They are guilty of insurrection and they intend to harm the royal family and destabilize the country. I'm afraid I cannot allow them to live and should I bring them back to be tried for their crimes it will only result in the same." You nod knowingly and place a hand on the young man's shoulder.

"Can you do it?" You ask, looking him in his emerald green eyes. "Can you take their lives just like that?" Hien grips his blade tightly and frowns. His eyes flicker and seem to tremble in the fight light as the two of you look at each other. There was a long silence as the two of you look at one another before the young lord nods slowly.

https://youtu.be/lEnD93WJwoc

"Yes." He says quietly. "Yes I can. It doesn't get easier. It never will but I will bear that pain. For my country." He pulls out the journal. "I read this all last night." He says quietly, his eyes watering, his face firm. The face of a young man struggling with themselves. "You know what I learned of the enemy?" He asks.

"What did you learn?" You ask, your voice quiet, even and neutral.

"Her name was Sarangerel. She was a scout in the raider's army. She joined early this year." Hien says holding the book out, his hand trembling. "And she missed her family." Hien grits his teeth as he continues. "She had two younger brothers and an elderly mother and she wrote fake letters that she hoped one day she could deliver them. She hated the cold and only joined because she wanted to earn money to feed her family. She was afraid because she was killing people who did nothing wrong to her. She was afraid that her companions would find out and leave her stranded in a forgein land. Every time they returned to Xiqi she would smuggle some of the loot they found. Stole it and hid it away so she could take it home as soon as they decided to return." Tears streamed down Hien's face but still he maintains a composed face, forced into place by his will. "She was a person Tai Lung. They're all people. Good or bad, evil or benevolent, they are people. They have friends and family. Hopes and dreams. And I have killed some. I have snuffed out their lives as easily as a candle. This is the weight of a ruler. I must judge who lives and dies and I must live with the weight of my actions. Not because I want to. Not because I can but because I must. Because the lives of thousands of other innocent people are at stake. I respect your vow to never kill again and I will never ask you to raise your hand to take a life but I will." Hien's voice cracks if only slightly as he pushes himself to go on. "Heavens forgive me but I will. So you ask if I will strike that woman down? That woman who I know nothing about. The one who may well be doing this out of a reason I may never know? I will. Because it is my duty. Because it is my responsibility." Hien stares at you with a look one would call resentful, angry. But you know that look, that tremble, that uncertainty. That was the look of someone who was losing themselves. The look of a man who was seeing the walls of his destiny close around him, smothering him but was unable to do anything about it. A look you remember often seeing in those rare moments of true loneliness when you were younger and you looked in the mirror.

You nod slowly, maintaining eye contact with the young man. "If that is what you wish to become then I will not stop you." You say. "You are the son of the emperor and you must find your own path." You pull back and sit down, never breaking sight with him, never turning away. "But...permit me one indulgence. Just one favor." Hien looks at you unmoving almost as if he was afraid that any sudden movement would break what tenuous grasp he had on his neutral demenor. You pull the replica Sword of Heroes from your side and hold it in your hands. Even after months of travel, it still retained it's beautiful sheen. The jade dragon embossed into the sides glittered in the fire, smooth and without imperfection. "Listen to my tale." You say simply as you place the blade across your lap. "This blade has seen me throughout all my travels. From here to the other side. Not once has it drawn blood, not once has it been used in war. This is a replica of the legendary Sword of Heroes but to me it is the true sword of heroes and it represents everything about you." You say holding it up to Hien. The sides sheen from the flames and the young lord is forced to see his own tear stained face reflected in the metal.

"This was given to me by the original creator of the Sword of Heroes, Luo Guanzhong. The original sword was what started him on the path to become the man he wished to be and so he gave me this replica with the same idea in mind." You flourish it and hold it with a reverse grip as you hold it out for Hien to take. "Now I offer it to you with the same idea in mind. In hopes this helps you become the man you truly want to be. Along with a story. Long ago Luo was no the man he is known for now. He was a blacksmith and more importantly what many considered to be the inferior of his three brothers and father. In his anger and his jealousy he forsook them leading to the death of his father. In his sadness and in his rage, he took his brother's weapons and forged them into the weapon we know today. He slew those who had hurt the ones he loved and was heralded a hero but to him it was a hollow victory. Power, skill, respect. He had all those but none could bring back those he had lost. Just as you want to be seen. Just as you lie and say you are doing it for everyone. Are you willing to sell yourself to be one everyone knows about? Even if it costs you everything?" Hien seems to open his mouth to respond but you ignore him and continue, still not handing him the sword. "But power for the sake of others also comes with it's own cost. Years ago, in the time of the three kingdoms there was a man and his sworn brother. Together they fought with the noble goal of preserving the country they loved. To unify it and bring about peace once more. Along the way they gathered a following. They made friends and allies. But peace always comes with a cost. The sworn brother became disillusioned with the fight. They saw what they were becoming. Warlords. So he offered a different solution. He and his closest friends traveled once more but this time to connect the nation through peace not fighting. It cost them dearly. As it was common in those times, betrayal followed suit time and again. Many of the brother's friends fell, lost to the flames of war but happy in dying for the greater cause. The man however, lost sight of his goal. He had sworn to gather more power so that such a thing could never happen again. So that no family could lose another one close to them. He too fell to the shadows as his sworn brother grew to be known as a diplomat and peacekeeper. But the man did not care for he was doing everything he could to protect his loved ones and gain more power. Soon his goals fell away, his noble purpose lost and all he craved was power. Why protect when you can conquer? Why offer peace when you can demolish? Soon he stole, killed and maimed. Anything to gather power. Anything to further his wants. In the end, the two brothers fought. In the end, the man was banished leaving only destruction and a heart broken sibling behind. Now he is known as one of the most feared legends in China's history. His deeds of good permantly wiped from it."

You hold out the blade and stare Hien directly in the eyes. "So now I'm offering you this sword. The sword with the weight of many tales. The sword that pushes men to become what they truly wish to be. A true hero does not cut down all in their path. The obstacles in front of him are given a chance to part before him, and a chance to become better than they once were. One can never take back a life taken. But you now this and so I leave the choice to you because you are the only one who can make it. I will leave you with one last question. When the time comes, when you see that woman on her knee, broken and defeated. Can you raise that blade? Can you tarnish it's clean steel with the stain of blood and weight it down with the act of murder?" Hien extends his trembling hand and pulls the blade away from you.

"I...am no hero." He says quietly, unsure. The young lord holds the blade in his hand and looks at it quietly. You don't hear him speak again for the rest of the night.

>What do you do?
>Go to sleep. You'll need all your energy to stay on look out when you reach the caravan.
>Stay up all night and keep watch. You scared the raiders but you never know.
>Talk to someone else. Who do you want to talk to?
>Write in.

>>4667550
>Go to sleep. You'll need all your energy to stay on look out when you reach the caravan.
>Stay up all night and keep watch. You scared the raiders but you never know.
Set up a watch rotation, so everyone sleeps at least a little.

>>4667550
>Got to sleep, set up watch rotation

I feel like the time skip is gonna involve teaching everyone chi. Which is cool. Makes the team unique...er.

>>4667565
>>4667687
Taking watch in shifts. Writing.

"We should sleep in shifts." You say as you carefully place another log into the fire. It immediately begins to snap and crackle as the heat begins to consume it. Warmth begins to fill the small enclosure again, a small advantage to being in such a closed space. "The raiders might be frightened off or busy looking for us but we can't lower our guard just yet."

Ming warps her blanket tighly around herself. "Do you think they'll go after the other towns?" She asks quietly as she tries not to look at Hien who had now decided to turn his back to the group and stare at the stars, hunched over. "Now that they know they've been found...maybe they'll try and attack more people as revenge." Xin Lan, who had unrolled their sleeping bag, pokes their head out and looks at Ming as they rest their head on their hand.

"I don't think so." They say. "If they do, they're only drawing more attention to themselves. Seems to me that their whole goal was to rob and pillage while not being found in order to get the most out of every attack. If they start going after towns now, they'll only bring us down on them. It'd be giving us a clear singal on where to go."

"For now, we have to focus on the evacuees." You say. "We can't abandon them to chase shadows and we can't split up to go to different towns. We'd be too far apart to help one another if they do go and attack a town." You settle into your corner of the trunk. "But we can plan all that once we get back to Renshu. For now let's get some rest. I'll take first shift." Your friends nod and get comfortable for the night. Soon enough, the faint sounds of breathing come from your friends as they fall asleep. You wonder how long ago they became accustomed to sleeping while in danger and you frown. Maybe you didn't like the fact that this had become normal enough for them to sleep in peace during times like this...

---

By the time you reach the caravan the sun was high in the air. The cool morning air had given away to the warmth of the sun and the warm winds of spring gently blow in your face. The sounds of cart wheels stop as you and your friends emerge from the woods. The villagers look in your direction warily, their eyes unfocused and desperate to find the source of your approach. As soon as you appear within sight, their gaze locks on to you and as if on queue the guards move to cover that position. "Shut up." Xin Lan says preemptively as they hop down from your arms and limp toward the cart. "I want to see my brother and I'll hit anyone who tries to stop me." Shifu waves the guards away and you, Ming and Hien approach.

"You're all safe." Renshu says from attop one of the carts, relief in his voice.

"Not quite." Xin Lan says. "Well, not entirely unharmed I mean." They pull themselves up onto the cart, and Renshu's gaze falls on their bandaged leg. Immediately you can feel rage emanate from the stripped rabbit. Pure and unadulterated, it seems to threaten to smother everyone around it. So much so that you're surprised that no one else seems to recognize or even feel it. Xin Lan sits next to their brother. "Got an arrow for my troubles but what can I say? I always wanted to be like you." They joke. Renshu pulls their sibling into a tight hug.

"I see." He says, his voice deceptively calm but the anger simmers, boiling and threatening to erupt. "But you're safe now. Everyone is here." He continues as he strokes the top of Xin Lan's head.

"Aww come on Stripes. You're embarassing me infront of everyone." Xin Lan says wiggling but not really trying to escape. Renshu's anger subsides to somewhat safer levels and he smiles.

"I will always embarass you infront of everyone." He says fondly and letting go. "It's my right and my reward for letting you steal food from my plate." Xin Lan gives them a smug grin at that and Renshu turns to you and the others. "What news did you bring?" He asks calmly, his rage finally vanishing. "Are the raiders still after us?" You shake your head.

"Not that we've last seen." You say. "We've managed to harass them for a long while and hide away for a night but they seemingly found us. We're not sure if they were trying to track you or us but we decided that it would be better to regroup with you all. We can defend the caravan much better than sitting around and hoping things are alright." Renshu nods and you walk along side the cart as everyone begins to move again. "What about you guys? How did it go?"

"Smoothly." Renshu replies. "Though we had a few close calls. Scouting groups that just missed us, sounds of fighting in the woods. We could not presume it was your doing so we did our best to hide our numbers. Luckily, it seems the Gods smiled on us and we managed to continue on undistrubed. Though...I'm afraid that there were many that had hoped you did not succeed well enough to return." He says sadly.

>What do you say?
>Shrug and say that it's not your problem what the villagers want. You're here to do a job and do it well.
>Ask Renshu something else or talk to another person.
>Keep quiet. You don't really want to speak about things with so many people listening.
>Write in.

>>4668304
>Shrug and say that it's not your problem what the villagers want. You're here to do a job and do it well.
Doing good is it's own reward.

>>4668304
>Shrug
>Ask renshu about his wounds, How have they healed?

Now that we are safe, we can start taking some injuries to get the others back in shape. Renshu and xin back at full force are equal to our lack.

>>4668342
>>4668347
We don't care about the other's opinions. We do what we do because it's right. Also asking best girl if they're ok. Writing.

>>4668394
And because we feel guilty.
And because it's basically our primary skillset unless we wished to become assassins on par with Renshu at his prime and open a take out.

>>4668431
Not sure I follow there for either, friend.

You shrug, you've been dealing this animosity for the past 3 days. Frankly, you'd have been surprised if their attitudes had shifted since then and to be quite honest, you had always come to expect this reaction. It just so happens that no one ever knew who you were until everything had blown over. "They can believe what they want." You say nonchalantly. "We don't do this for the fame or admiration. Unless you think this will impede our goals?" Renshu shakes his head and stops doting on their sibling long enough to adjust their sling.

"I don't believe it will." He says. "They are frightened, that much is certain but they are far more scared of the raiders than you at the moment. As silly as that sounds."

"I suppose that is fear in a nutshell. It never is something coherent or logical." You say. "We still have many days before we reach Taishi, hopefully they calm down a bit more once we have a few days travel between us and Xiqi."

"One can only hope." Renshu replies. "It is quite odd to feel the ire of these villagers." He admits. "I don't believe I've ever felt anything quite like it. It's a rather new experience." You tilt your head in confusion.

"Ever? But what about your...old profession? Or your time out of the country?" You ask, trying to be as discreet and more importantly, as tactful as possible. Renshu gives you one of his serene smiles.

"I'm afraid most of my work went unnoticed and much as my time away, I never met the people who I would have drawn the ire of. One did not live long in my profession if the origin of my work was well known though...I must admit I was rather thorough as well when I wanted to be. I'm afraid there aren't too many left that would be aware of my existence." He admits as he adjusts a now snoozing Xin Lan. "Though it would be rude of me to say that thier ire for me is greater than their hatred of you. To them I'm merely a proxy. Someone associated with you." Once again you shrug.

"It's not big deal. I expected this to happen sooner or later. I'm actually quite surprised that I went this long without being found out." You admit. "Their hate isn't really something I enjoy but it doesn't really compare to prison so I'll gladly take a few glares and whispers over manacles and restraints." Changing the subject you ask, rather concerned, "How are your wounds? Are they healing alright?"

Renshu adjusts his sling a bit, more out being reminded than habit. "I'm doing quite alright. The pain is manageable though I will be grateful if Miss Ming has any medication to dull it somewhat. I'm afraid however I'm still of no use to you. According Miss Ming, I've dislocated my shoulder. Though she managed to pop it back into place, it'll be about a dozen or so weeks before I can use it properly. And about half as many before I can use my leg. Judging by Xin Lan's injury, I'd say they're about the same. Arrow wounds are rather grevious. We will have a few weeks if more than one as we wait for the Five to arrive but I'm afraid we will be nowhere near ready for an all out war against the raider army."

>What do you say?
>Write in.

How did it manage to not include any of my options? Here you go.

>What do you say?
>Tell Renshu you can try to heal his wounds. You've never done it before but it's worth a shot.
>Say that it's no problem. Even if he and Xin are too injured to fight, there's still you, Hien and the five as well as Shifu and Po to fight back.
>Say that he's done enough. For now, he can simply rest and perhaps talk to the villagers to see if they can calm down a bit.
>Write in.

>>4668493
>Tell Renshu that we can try to heal his wounds, never done it before but it's worth a shot.
>If we do this, wake up Xin and inform both them and Ming about what's happening. We promised not to scare them again.

So two broken legs and a dislocated arm. I think when we discussed it we were able to condense our healing down from months to weeks, so about speeding our natural regen rate up by 4 ish. Using this hazy memory as a guide, a week and a half for us to get our legs back, and if we take about half the damage from his arm rather than full, we can also be done with that in roughly the same time.

We will need some tending to stop the bleeding once we take on the wounds, but from there we can just straight trance our way through to next week and a half while Xin takes our place guarding the caravan.

>>4668530
Support.
Time to train this new ability.
Also we are going to need Renshu and Xin to do a plan I'm making for when deal with the raiders.

>>4668530
It would suck that we can't visit the captain or our taven bro's immediately, since we'd be spending a week in a trance, but is.

Hmm, on second thought disregard this vote, we can explain that we can heal them but only after we have explained the situation to the guard captain, since if we leave it then he won't hear our report on the situation before the others taint his perceptions of us.

Once we are back in town and dealt with him, then we will heal them.

>>4668538
my plan will cost us a few days, so maybe just take a little of Renshu's injuries to see how it works without being incapacitated?

>>4668539
That would be smart, yeah.
Especially since the five will take a while to hear the message and to arrive anyway. And the guards and villagers might become even angrier that we apent the journey sleeping instead of guarding them.
They may never like us, but it's better to not any more reasons.

Going over the archive, because I'm a big nerd, I will point out that doing Chi healing in any capacity also leaves you completely drained and doing the regen thing leaves you completely immobile and defenseless. Just pointing that out incase it messes with any plans you had in the works. Don't want to just spring that on you after the votes. wouldn't be fair.

>>4668538
Actually, I'm going to say the plan here so the others anons can give their opinions, that way it may become more refined.
So it start with ua sending the sneaky brothers, and maybe viper too to poison the fireplaces in the ruins during the night. The next day, Po and the five will march directly into the camp, drawing their attention, meanwhile Xin and Renshu will attack the sleepy guards while they awaken so they can't join the main battle, and we, shifu and hien attack the rest from behind.
Depending if Ming learns more combat abilities, be they needle throwing or some magic, she will either skirmish at the borders doing hit and runs, or she stands back and help as support.

>>4668553
No I do remember that part.
It's why we haven't used it, far as I can tell, it leaves us completely defenceless. Was I right on the rate of healing though?

But the way we'd do it is basically hand on each bloke, take it all in, try not to scream, take a drink and then drop into a coma for a while until we hop up good as new.
Least that's how I see it.

>>4668553
So better leave the healing for when we do it all at once than?

>>4668562
I don't remember the healing rate. I'll go over it again but I need to head out for an appointment. I'll count votes when I get back.

>>4668558
A bit risky, you have to admit. But I'd say instead that we should be one of those to march right into camp, since our abscence will be noted immediately, we being the terror of the raiders previous attacks.

>>4668564
Seems that way. Being KO for even an hour is risky with these villagers.

With allies this bad, who needs enemies?

>>4668581
It is exactly because of us being the terror that we should show up out of nowhere a bit after the battle begins attacking their flank.
Also we promised Po he would lead the charge against the raiders when the would come and I want to keep our word.

>>4668597
While fair, and I'm fine with po leading us in, I think that having their focus on us would serve us better than their eyes wandering to see where we would come from.

Just so we are on the same page, we are dealing with the captain before healing the others right?

>>4668610
Yeah, we return, report everything, give a heads up to the couple and go do our magic thing.
Should also report togheter with Hien, just in case things go wrong.

>>4668622
Hien, good catch. The man's word would be of no insignificant worth when his name drops. He may not wish for that though.

>>4668629
We should ask him. Having us run out of town will hinder our efforts. Also could help convince the reat of the five to work with us too.
But really don't want to force him to feel forced to do it, he helps if he wanta to.

>>4668648
They can't run us out, not while they need us. We also have Shifu and our prior good reputation to help soften the blow but the captain needs to hear from us what we found and more importantly who we are.

Best heard from us, and best to be unapologetic about keeping our name hidden. Guilt implies we did something wrong.

Hmmm...before Renshu helps on the operation, after we heal him, I feel we should remind him not to let his anger get the best of him when he's out there. He might slip up dangerously with how furious he is...

>>4668673
I feel that his anger is understandable, justified even, in what he felt on seeing Xin. But a warning never hurt anyone.

>>4668677
>a warning never hurt anyone.
Unless it's in the form of a prophecy...right?

>>4668684
Depends on the prophecy. The self fulfilling sort hurts people, but otherwise it's mostly fine.

I hate doctor's appointments. They always take forever.

>>4668597
We promised Po that? I honestly don't remember but I'll jot it down in my notes.

Anyways, votes seem to be to get to town then inform the captain and then healing?

>>4668849
i dont remember it either

>>4668849
http://suptg.thisisnotatrueending.com/qstarchive/4613892/#p4643712
Third paragraph, middle of the speech:
"Once The Five return then you can lead a charge to fight evil."
But it was written because of only one write-in that ws probably mine anyway, so feel free to retcon it.

>>4668888
Nah, it's all good. Flanking with the others seems like something Tai Lung would do anyways. He's never been the kind of person who wants to lead glorious charges against evil. He just wants to go in, do the job and get out.

>>4668849
I think so, we ask Hien if he wants to back us up in case shit hit the fan, go see the cap, maybe visit romeo and juliet and than enter a coma.

>>4668897
Who knows, maybe if we’re lucky our chi bullshit combined with taking on an incredible amount of wounds will make us astrally project into Eureka where the dilated time will let us heal faster somehow.
And then we come back with a bullshit upgrade because we obviously continue training in eureka until our body fully heals, in traditional shounen fashion.
Wait a minute, i must be reading the wrong anime here

>>4668911
You forgot the bit where you seal a demon in your stomach and learn to be a subsitute hell judge.

You place your hand on Renshu's good shoulder and give him smile. "Rest up my brother." You say. "I have a plan but now is not the time to discuss it. All I ask is that you have faith in me for now."

Renshu returns your smile. "I'll always have faith." He says. "You've proved it to me more than you'll ever need to. I just hope that we are not burdening you."

"If you were then I would be a poor friend." You say. "For all my talks, for all my journies, if I did not try to help you better yourself in that situation then I do not deserve the faith you give me. There is still plenty you can do right now. It's only a matter of playing to the strengths you have at the moment. For now take a rest. I'm sure you've been up worrying. The rest of us will take care of keeping watch." You step back and allow the cart to make some distance between the two of you before moving to go find the others.

"Ming, if you still have some of those herbs can you spare a few to help Renshu with his pain? I don't think he's gotten much sleep." You say as you step in tandem with her. Ming rummages through her bags, a look of weariness from the light sleep you all had the night before.

"You got me a few things." She says. "Not much but something. As soon as we stop for the night, I can whip up a nice tonic for the pain. Can he move alright?" She asks.

"He seems fine but you know the rabbits. They're probably far more trained than either of us together to withstand pain. So he's probably not showing it."

"You're right about that." Ming says unnerved. "I pull the arrow out of Xin's leg. No medicine, nothing to dull the pain. They didn't even move or react to it as I dug it out. Just had that deadpan stare they ussually get, you know? It was...unsettling." She admits.

You nod. "I know but still, when you get the chance. Make them something to take the edge off. I'm sure they'll appreciate it."

"What are you going to do?" She asks.

"I'm going to take mid point. Keep an eye out for trouble. Going to coordinate with my father and Po to try and get all sides covered as we travel. Keep an eye out as well. Might just catch something." You say and Ming looks around.

"Do you really think we'll run into anyone? We're pretty far out and I haven't really heard anymore of the raiders nearby either."

"Until we're in Taishi, I'm going to assume we're still being followed." You say. "Better we keep vigilant for nothing than be caught off guard."

---

The travel to Taishi was a long one. You don't remember the last time you had traveled at this slow a pace. Even when you took rides on carts and with other traders, you had the chance to zone out and not think. The constant feeling of being on edge never went away, even when you were a day's away form your destination. Finally, however, Taishi appears in your sight, a bastion of safety in the dark oppressive forest. As you arrive to the town's edge, people begin to come out of their homes or stores curious about the sudden arrival of such a large gathering of people in the off season. As soon as the evacuees arrived within the city limits they immediately broke formation and beelined it to the nearest tavern or eatery, hoping to drown their sorrows or eat their worries away. Others remained at the edge of town, though still within the safety of it's buildings to talk and get their stories told. This bode ill for you. They would speak about you, tell everyone your real name, and that would simply make things much harder. However, you had friends to tend to as well. You couldn't simply abandon them to get things done before everyone knew who you were.

>What do you do?
>Find Xin and the others a place to stay. Best you all have some shelter or else you might not be allowed a room because of name alone.
>Go talk to the Captain. He needs to know what happened, he'd also be the angriest if he found out you lied to him by omission.
>Find Chuanli and his family. Let them know you're ok. They at least know your name even if they thought you were joking.
>Write in.

>>4669051
>Go talk to the Captain. He needs to know what happened, he'd also be the angriest if he found out you lied to him by omission.
>Find Chuanli and his family. Let them know you're ok. They at least know your name even if they thought you were joking.

In order, quickly confirm that the noble is the sun of the emperor, Po and my dad is here. Then leave before the yelling/heart attack starts

>>4669051
>Have Ming get the shelter, Xin and Renshu keep eachother company for the time being, while we talk to the captain.

If we keep our conversation short, w eshould be able to get back to the others quickly and carry them to the inn. In the meantime, they can "Rest" or "stand guard" as a precaution.

>>4669290
Don't forget to give him our name.
And I think it should be "The noble was the sun of the emperor, and your mayor mistook his orders."

Hien still wants to keep a low profile, I think

>>4669051
>Go talk to the Captain. He needs to know what happened, he'd also be the angriest if he found out you lied to him by omission.
Ask Hien for support just in case.
>>4669294
That's why I'm thinking of asking for hia help first, so we don't go over whatever he wants.
>Find Chuanli and his family. Let them know you're ok. They at least know your name even if they thought you were joking.
See if they are all right, hopefully.no one came to kidnap her while we were away.

>>4669407
If they did, then WHOO BOY AM I GONNA BE 400% MAAAAAAAAAAD.

>>4669417
I say if it happened, we heal Renshu and ask him to deal with it.
Let's see how they will like the terror of japan.

>>4669421
No, no. I feel that this is something we should be doing. Even after we help his arm, it's still going to be stiff.

>>4669290
>>4669407
Captain first so he gets mad. Then the family so anons get 400% mad. Writing.

>>4669698
Oh no.
Time to wipe out a trader dynasty from existance.

File: Mad dog of Shimano.jpg (92 KB, 1280x1138)

92 KB JPG

>>4669698
Welp. Time to learn a new style.

>>4669702
Honestly that seems to fit Xin Lan more but man just thinking of Dragon Style enhanced Mad Dog Shimano is pants shittingly terrifying. Side note, I beat Yakuza 0 and the legend styles broke the game. Majima's mad it almost unfun to play with how easy it got. Made me damn sad. Now i'm just playing the rest of the series as I wait for 6 to be ported.

>>4669703
I get that man. Thug style was kinko though.

>>4669705
Thug style was my favorite but I can't say I didn't love the hell out of the aoe potential of Breaker. Especially the 3v1 heat action. But god damn...Majima's story and ending in that game hit fucking hard. Puts him in a whole new light and I'm glad I played 0 after 1 Kiwami.

>>4669706
It really was Majima's game, watching him go from two bit gangster to the most crazy yak legend to ever grace the streets.

>>4669715
It honestly was and I love how you can see where he get's all his crazy habits. Mr. Libido's pelvic thrusting, Nishitani's crazy love of fighting, his (at the time) weird ass dancing fighting style. Yakuza 0 really was an excellent prequel.

"Ming, take the others and find us a room to sleep in." You say as you dig roughly through your pockets for your bag of money. "Before they're all taken. I need to go talk to the guard captain before his men start to tell their side of the story. Man has a temper and I really don't need him hunting me down because of some one sided tale." You hand Ming the money and nod to your friends. "Stay safe and keep an eye out. We're gonna be in for a rough few days once the stories start to spread around." Ming nods. "Hien, I'm gonna need you to come with me. Might need your help on this one." You say quietly. Hien, who seemed busy staring at the townsfolk in a kind of trance, is brought back upon hearing his name.

"Ah, yes...yes I suppose I will go with you." He says rather quietly before looking back at the town.

"You guys stay here." Ming tells the rabbits. "I'll come get you guys once I have something ready for us. Just try not to yell at people Xin." She pleads. Xin Lan shrugs, "They couldn't do anything even in this condition but yeah I hear ya. Just get us somewhere to rest up." With the mattered of behaving and rooms settled, you quickly make your way to the small guard station at the other side of town. Even in the scant few minutes you spend talking with your friends, the villagers had already started to mingle with the townsfolk of Taishi and even now, as you try to keep to yourself, people glance in your direction. No longer an odd stranger with odder habits, you were something to be wary of. Something to be feared. You can hear the scant whispers around you, some of confusion and of disbelief others of fear. You pick up the pace and hurry over to the station. The familiar sight of the two guards, the porcupine and the monkey greet you at the door as always. Unlike your previous encounters, the two seem wide awake and eye the town in a mixture of nervousness and intrigue.

"Seems like something is going on in the town." The porcupine says as you approach. "Should we go investigate it?"

"No. Best we wait til the captains orders." The monkey replies. You wave at them for attention.

"We've got a big group of evacuees." You say. "From the reconstruction in Xiqi. I'm here to give a report to the captain. Is he in?" You ask. The two seem rather unsurprised at the news.

"Oh makes sense." One says.

"Told you." The other reprimands. Upon seeing the confusion on your face, the porcupine clarifies, "I was just saying that there was no way the captain was gonna let someone like you go after all you did when you were here. I had a hunch he had sent you on some kind of secret mission. Good to see you back sir." He says with a salute. One you return awkwardly.

"Right." You say, rather uncomfortable. "In either case, is the captain in?" You ask.

"Oh yeah. He's in his office. Think he's been dealing with another one of the mayor's crazy schemes. Something about a new years parade." The monkey says. "I'm sure he'll be glad to see you." You nod and the two guards stand by to let you in. You walk through the small building, down the familiar hall, and towards the captain's office. You knock firmly on the door and hear from within a voice. "Come in." Following the directions, you step into the office and see that it is it's ussually messy self.

"Ah, it's you." The captain says somewhat surprised but now fully alert. "I figured you'd be gone for longer. Something is amiss isn't it?"

"What makes you say that?" You ask trying to keep the conversation light.

"Woman's intuition." The captain replies snarkily. "Now cut the small talk. What's going on?"

>What do you tell the Captain? (Or rather how do you want to relate the news to him?)
>Write in

>>4669765
A hard question.
>Give him the details of the situation, the raiders movement, his people being safe, the raids and how many there seemed to be [a full fucking army] and the noble who ordered this all to happen [ask Hien to introduce himself. He can do it as son of the emperor or just an imperial noble as he wishes.] and give him their projected movements and our actions, as well as who we brought back and the plan to gather the five and break the raiders.

Once that's all done.
>Now captain, You have all that? Because I'd like you to consider it all and digested it before I give you the next matter that you should hear about.
Give him a minute to get it all straight in his head and ask questions before we alter his perceptions.
>Your men will be along to tell you this shortly, so it is better to hear it from me first, My name is Tai Lung.

After he's got that news, we can relate that we do still plan on helping, regardless of the animosity of the townspeople or himself but we would prefer to do it with his cooperation.

>>4669838
>their projected movements
I meant the raiders here, not Hien.

>>4669765
Tell that the guards are alive and so are the villager, about the journal and map and how thet are rotating the ruins. How they had a weapons stash we destroyed and that they were returning to xiqi and we hekp held them off and with the evacuation. Warn that the forest is minefield of traps know and spread the knowledge so with the villagers return they can be careful.
Tell him we are going to wait for the rest of the five and ambush the raiders. Also tell him that Hien was his "problem" noble and that he is a good man, all the trouble was the mayor's imcompetence and eargerness to please. Let Hien introduce himself as the prince. Ask with anything happened in town, so we can get info on what is trouble before he has an aunerysm of rage.
And than we tell him that when we said we were a wandering martial artist, we didn't tell everything, so we are coming clean that our name is Tai Lung.
And hope Hien can stop him for ordering our improsement. Not because he can stop us, but because it would make thinga complicated.

>>4669868
Oh, and that shifu and Po are here too, some more good news for him.

>>4669868
I don't think we should ask Hien to order us to be left alone unless he has to. It's always best for the captain to stay his hand out of choice.

>>4669920
I wasn't suggesting to order Hien to order the captain, thats why I said to hope he would save our hide.
Because it has to come from his own iniciative.

>>4669922
>>4669920
Oh shit, I misenterpreted what you said.
Yeah, it would be best if the captain didn't become hostile to us by choice, but if it doesn't happen then Hien stepping in would be the next best outcome.

>>4669926
Probably

>>4669838
>>4669868
Making the tiger angry. Writing.

>>4669955
Making the tiger happy, then making him immensely angry.

“It’s a rather long story.” You admit. “And I’ve heard that you’re rather busy so I’m sorry if this takes up some of your time.” You say. The guard captain grabs a handful of pages and throws them aside to the floor. “To hell with the mayor. Whatever you have to say is 100 times more important anyways.” He says gruffly and he leans back in his chair motioning you to one of the others opposite of his desk. You take one with a polite bow and sit though Hien decides to stand. “We found your men.” You say getting to the point. The captain nods, eyes glinting with something you can’t quite say is gratitude but also can’t say is excitement.

“That’s good.” He says but then remains quiet for you to continue. “Luckily for us, our concerns were not reality. There was a real reconstruction effort going on in Xiqi. Your men had decided to stay as they had become rather attached to the progress that was being made and wanted it to be completed rather than leaving the villagers there defenseless. Something I can’t say I wouldn’t have done if I was in their place.”

“Well that explains a lot.” The captain grunts. “Those idiots always did take things too far sometimes. Still...I’d rather they took their job seriously and stayed than some other idiodic thing like falling for a local girl. But I’m guessing that’s not the reason you’re here. You could have told them to write a letter and been on your way...unless you’re asking for payment?” He asks, raising an eyebrow. You shake your head.

“No. Far from it. We ran into trouble.” You say and the captain’s eyes darken.

“What kind of trouble?” He asks.

“Raiders.” You say simply. “The ones we’ve all been tracking. Came out of the woods and attacked the remains of the town. We think they were using the ruins as camping spots to hide from guards or would be heroes and didn’t expect people actually trying to rebuild the town. We managed to fend them off but that was only a scouting party. The real trouble came the day after.” Your words carry a tone of finality and the room seems to grow smaller and colder as you continue with the grim news. “It’s an army of them. Hundreds of them. In the dead of night we had Master Shifu and The Dragon Warrior evacuate the villagers. My team and I stayed behind to hold them off. We have injuries but ultimately we managed to keep their attention and whittle their numbers down with hit and run attacks. As far as we know they’re still in Xiqi but we’re not sure if they’ll begin marching on other towns.”

The captain slowly sits up and then stands as he paces the small office. “I’m getting too old for this shit.” He mutters darkly as he stares out the window. For a moment his eyes seem to unfocus and stare off into nonexistent space before he turns around to face you. “So then, what is your plan? Xiqi is two weeks from here. I can organize another evacuation by then but we have many elderly and there are those who wouldn’t wish to leave. You’re putting me in a difficult spot here rookie.”

“We wait for the Five.” You say. “They’re coming here in a few days, maybe a week tops. Once they arrive, I’ll go back with them and we’ll break the army apart. It’s the only plan we have at the moment. We have their movements down however, so should they not be in Xiqi, we know the next likely place they’ll head to next.” You motion to Hien and after a small delay, he reaches into his pockets and draws out the journal and the map. The captain glances at Hien for a moment, eyes lingering on him before returning to you. You unroll the map and begin to point at the various dates and locations. “We found these on a dead raider. It’s a map of their movements. Only intended for scouting parties in case they become separated from the main force. If they continue to follow their plan as such, we’ll be able to catch them if not preemptively get ahead of them for an ambush.”

“Assuming they stick to their plans.” The captain points out. “What’s to say they won’t immediately abandon their routes? They know we’re onto them.” You shake your head.

“They have too many injured.” You say. “Even if they do abandon their routes, the injuries they have limit how far they can travel. Even if they abandon them, it simply gives us more people to question. Although speaking of injuries...there are still some traps in the woods surrounding Xiqi.” You say a bit more sheepish than you intended. “Many were set and sprung to hold back the tide as the others escaped but I cannot say for certain if they were all dismantled.” The captain rubs his head and he shakes it.

“Gods...you really know how to make a mess of things.” He says. “Alright, so we got them on the run. That’s good but what if they attack another town? What if they go for creating more havoc as a form of revenge?”

“That would risk them too much. It’d show us where they were and with a group that size, we’d easily catch them.” You counter. “I’ll admit that my plan was short sighted but I wasn’t going to let dozens of innocent people die just to make sure an army is caught. Had it been a group of fighters, I probably would have held the line along with them but what you’re suggesting is a waste of life.” The captain looks at you, not with scorn or malice but simply studies you.

“Fine. At least you weren’t trying to get some glory.” He mutters and goes to a drawer in the back. There’s a jingle of glass and he pulls out a large bottle of alcohol. Popping the cork, the large tiger drinks from it directly, swallowing twice before he slams it back down. “Damn that boar makes some strong drink.” He says quietly before pouring himself a glass. Waving the bottle at you he asks, “Need a drink? Seems like you’ve been to hell and back with this information.” You shake your head politely. The captain shrugs and nods to Hien. “Who’s the kid? Your son?”

A bit surprised you shake your head.

>How do you introduce Hien?
>Give it to him straight. Tell the captain it’s the third son of the emperor.
>Leave the details vague. Say it’s the noble he met.
>Let Hien introduce himself.
>Lie and say he is your son.
>Write in.

>>4670088
>Let Hien introduce himself
>I'd make a bad father, I'll stick to Kung Fu.

>>4670088
>Your little "problem" noble
>Let Hien introduce himself.

>>4670099
Agree

>>4670098
>I'd make a bad father, I'll stick to Kung Fu
Lies. TL would make a great dad. He'd teach his kids kung fu just like he was...and Xin...and Renshu...never mind.

>>4670115
Maybe we should look for some books about parenting in the sacred library together with the location of the pools.
You know, just in case.

>>4670098
Amending the statement to "Stick to Kung fu and Helping people"

>>4670088
>Let Hien introduce himself.
>"Do we really look that alike?"

>>4670099
>>4670114
>>4670098
>>4670304
Letting your "son" introduce himself. Writing.

"He's not my son." You say looking at Hien, who at the moment seems busy fidgeting with the Sword of Heroes. "But I'm not going to dance around the subject. He's that 'problem' noble you had a few months ago." The captain shrugs and sits down, setting the bottle and glasses on the table.

"Figured as much." He lied taking another drink. "You seemed familiar. Caused me a lot of trouble you know." He says gruffly. Hien is pull away at from his thoughts and nods but then shakes his head.

"My apologies." He says quietly. "I did not think that your mayor would take things so far as he did. He had promised me he would do what he could not send his entire regiment. All I had asked was that he send what he could if anything at all. I had hoped a small bit of supplies from multiple villages would help kick start the reconstruction. It was never meant to starve on place for another." The captain snorts as he swirls his glass lightly. He downs the rest of his drink in one gulp before speaking.

"You have a lot to learn boy. People always do things to make themselves look better. That pompus fool especially." The captain sets his glass down and sighs as the alcohol seemed to work it's way in his system. "Take it as a learning experience. Luckily for you, no lives were lost because of it. Better you learn it now than later where it can cost so much more than a few measly supplies."

"Yes...yes you're quite right." Hien agress. "I'll make sure it doesn't happen again."

"I would blame more your mayor than anyone else." You say. "His plans were well thought out. It just seems that your mayor is more concerned with personal glory than the good of his people. I still think you should find someone to replace him." The captain shrugs.

"My point still stands on both cases." He says. "But if you can find someone willing to run against him, then perhaps the village will vote for them. As of now, the mayor wins by default every election."

"More to the point." You say standing up. "Your men are here and they'll be coming to tell you their version of the events. As such I've decided to tell you before they can. I am Tai Lung. The criminal." The captain looks at you and sets his glass down again with a large sigh.

"You really really know how to put me in a bind rookie." He says standing up. The captain stands up and locks the door behind you. "Alright. Cut the bullshit. Who are you really and what do you want? I've be retired from the service for nearly 20 years but I'm not an idiot. I've given you the benefit of the doubt, looked past your obvious over qualifications and now you give me this." He tosses the keys aside and they clatter in a corner. "You come with information you shouldn't, track raiders that no one else can find, and also come back with a wayward noble. So, I'm asking you. Who are you? Why have you chosen this town? What do you want?"

You face the captain and stare directly in his piercing brown eyes. "I am Tai Lung. I have journyed all across China in search of redemption. I help those who cannot fight back, defeat those who want to take advantage of others, and protect those who no one else will. I don't do this for fame or glory simply to know that I didn't waste my life on useless endevours like searching for power as I did when I was younger. Your town was chosen by mere chance and nothing else. I became a guard here simply because it was job to sustain myself and my friend on the road. I understand your hesitation and your reservations but I will point out that your jail can't hold me and though I'll let you arrest me willingly, if I need to I will break out to save everyone here. I only tell you this because I want you to give me an honest chance rather than have your view tainted by your men's biases. All I ask is that you remember what I did here and know that none of this was done to undermine or to trick the townsfolk. All I ever lied about was my name. If you need more proof then ask Chuanli, who's family I did give my name to. He can tell you I've been nothing but kind to his son and his girlfriend."

The captain looks at you long and hard, his eyes studying every inch of you as if looking for a trick or some kind of attack. Given that you were going to do neither of these things, you hope that he doesn't find anything that would such and idea. "You're under arrest." The captain says pulling out a pair of cuffs. "I can't let you go free. Not because of what you have done but because it's my duty to my town to keep them safe. I'm sorry but the townsfolk also deserve to know who you are. I won't go to the mayor. Even if you are Tai Lung, you don't deserve to be paraded like a trophy. I'll talk to Chuanli and do an actual investigation. If I find you to a non threat then I 'll let you go but I need to do my duty for everyone's sake." The captain moves forward to lock your hands in place but Hien also moves forward as if he is about to do something.

>What do you do?
>Tell Hien to stop. You'll let the captain take you into custody. It's the right way to deal with this.
>Push the captain aside and escape. You can't afford to waste time like this. You need to get back to the others.
>Let Hien do what he plans to do. Maybe it might help you out.
>Write in.

>>4670421
>Let Hien do what he plans to do. Maybe it might help you out.

Let things happen now. The captain will find that we are no threat to him, if Hien wants to talk let him.

>>4670421
>Let things play out as they may.

I don't think Hien is the sort to get violent, so we should stop him if he goes for a swing.
Otherwise, if we get slammed in the slammer, Maybe make the point of asking for our friends to be informed/asking for Xin and Hien to turn up for healing measures. Meditating in prison isn't a bad passtime.

>>4670421
>Let Hien do what he plans to do. Maybe it might help you out.

>>4670421
>Let Hien do what he plans to do. Maybe it might help you out.
Normally I would accept with no problem, but we don't have time. We got to heal our friends and prepare for the counter attack. Also Xin would try killing him.

>>4670717
Actually, we really should tell the cap that we would accept be imprisoned while he investigate, and tell him that something similar happened in that last city with the five, but that we are starved for time. He is a good man, don't want to antagonize him.

>>4670722
Life Hack: they can’t imprison you if you keep being critical to saving whatever settlement you’re in at the time!

>>4670751
>Hey guys, Tai Lung back at it again with another prison unboxing video. Now if you're a longtime viewer, you know what's about to happen.

Seriously though, it might ease some tensions if we were to be behind bars. So long as we are clear that when it is time to smash the raiders we are leaving. And maybe get some access to our friends.

>>4670637
Changing to "stop hien"

>>4670770
I propose we explain to the captain we are going to be knocked out agter we do our magic chi bullshit healing, so he is gping to have time to inveatigate.
Just don't want to go to jail because I know the retard pig is going to beat us during our coma.
And then we are going to have to stop both Xin and Renshu from murdering him.

>>4670772
You mean asking for about 2 hours or so to set everything in order before getting arrested?
Dont think he would buy that chief.

>>4670774
No, saying that we will be in house arrest. He can follow us and see we do our thing he wants.

>>4670777
Again, doubt he will buy it. The reason he is putting us in a cell is to do his duty and house arrest would be putting us in easy reach of villagers which we could harm, which goes against his duty. Never mind the damage to the buissness it would be causing by having his guards there.

>>4670790
The point is not to convince him, but to slighty appease.
So it's not a total defeat for him, we aren't going to go jumping around beating people, but in a fucking coma, so he could investigate like he wanted.

>>4670804
You're either down for being imprisoned or you are not. All we can do is ask for dispensations that he can choose to grant or deny, and if we don't like that then to get what we want would be to refuse to be arrested and in turn make the entire town turn against us.

So yes, it's very much about convincing him.

>>4670836
I already said I'm not supporting being imprisoned. The captain already showed he can't control his own men. What I'm saying is ro try to assuage his worries.

>>4670873
And that is that we are going to be down for a few weeks, so if he wants to follow us to see it's legit and maybe post a guard to watch the hotel he can.
He wants to investigate with Chuanli to clear our name without us walking arpund his town, well he can, because we aren't going to.
Again, not being imprisoned, because ghe guards will beat us, and Renshu an Xin already want to kill them, and I really don't think we can stop them if we are in a coma.

>>4670877
>>4670873

I disagree. Because he hasn't actually had the chance or point to demonstrate his control to us, since he hasn't been in the same town to give orders.
As for beating us, I really doubt it. It'd snap us out of our trance and even with one arm in the worst case we are still more than able to defend ourselves.

As for the others, they won't kill them unless we die, so I believe. We can still wake up and they don't wish to disappoint us.

Anyway, lastly is that refusing is just going to set the town as a hostile area and we're going to be driven out, which we can't allow. He isn't doing this out of worry, he's doing it out of duty and our words aren't going to stop him.

>>4670888
Honestly, we should wait to see what Hien is going to say before making our decision. He may have a good idea.

>>4670895
that's the way the vote is going.

>>4670438
>>4670637
>>4670677
>>4670717
Letting Hien murder the captain thus starting the chain of events that leads to the final boss of the quest. Writing.

You hold your your wrist. Jail time wasn't something new to you but more importantly you didn't want to cause a comotion especially when things were starting to get tense. Moreover, you wanted to see what the boy would do. Hien draws his blade and holds it out, pinning the shackles in the captains hands. "Boy...I don't care what wealthy family you belong to but I'm giving you five seconds to put that thing away before I throw you in a cell with him."

"No." Hien says faltering slightly and sheathing his blade. "No you won't. I'll take his place."

"This isn't a negotiation." The captain says. "You don't get to barter with me. I don't care how much money you have." Hien's eyes harden as he takes a slight breath and steels himself. He draws himself to his full height, a full head shorter than both you and the captain, and speaks, his voice authoritarian.

"It is now." He says. "As son of the emperor, blessed by the dragons, I order you to let this man go." Hien draws a jade tile from within the folds of his sleeves and holds it out. The tile, smooth as water, had the royal seal upon it but of more important note, a dark fluid swam within it, trapped by the jade itself that seemed to glow every so slightly even in the bright sun. It was said that every member of the royal family carried these tiles, a sign of their noble birth and authenticated by their own blood that flowed within the stone. No one, not even the greatest jewelers in China knew how this was accomplished and to attempt to break open or even hold such a stone was tantamount to high treason. The captain's eyes widen and he grits his teeth.

"Boy..." He growls but reluctantly lowers the shackles almost as he was fighting against an invisible force as he fought against his duty.

"Listen." Hien says. "At the moment, only a few people know Tai Lung his here. Let him go and take me in his place. We can't beat the raiders without him. I've seen him fight and risk his life. The Five cannot compare to the might he brings alone and I firmly belive he is the only one who can defeat the raider's leader. Let him go now and say he was never here. As far as your men know, they think I'm merely one of his friends. If they ask questions then tell them I was caught in his stead and Tai Lung fled. He's stealthy enough to get around town without being caught. He needs time to prepare for the battle even with the Five waiting."

"And I'm just supposed to let him go? I have a job to do!" The captain shouts but Hien remains unmoved, his eyes stoic and unfazed.

"And you'll do it." He says. "Preform your investigation. If you find this man to be a danger, if he doesn't return after he heads out to face the raiders then I'll take accountability for all his crimes. Past and present."

"You can't be serious about this! This isn't some children's tale about faith!"

"This isn't and I can order you to make this happen. As it stands, you're already under command to let him go. I'm offering you a chance to still continue with your duty. Believe me when I say that I do not relish having to use my position to get what I want nor to force command up on others but you're not leaving me any choice. The Five will be here in a few days and he's the only one with any experience fighting the raiders by a long shot. China needs him and his friends. So unless you have a counter offer, I'm afraid I'll continue to abuse my position. All else I can offer you is that instead of having him sneak around, I will personally announce my plan to the villagers. That Tai Lung is here and is preparing to fight the raiders and that I, Lord Hien, have taken his place in prison." The captain looks at you, anger and frustration building in his eyes.

"Fine." He says, his hands shaking and rattling the shackles. "Then you will speak to the village." Hien nods and turns to leave.

>What do you say?
>Stop Hien and refuse to follow his plan. Any planning can be done by him while you wait.
>Tell Hien that it's better if you remain hidden. He doesn't need to annoucne anything.
>Ask Hien if he really thinks this is a good idea.
>Write in.

>>4671004
>Stop Hien and refuse to follow his plan. Any planning can be done by him while you wait.
>Tell Hien that it's better if you remain hidden. He doesn't need to annoucne anything.
Now is the time to say that we are going to use the chi healing and be knocked out for a while. Say to find a hidden cell, get Renshu and Xin here at night and we do our thing.
Also don't even bother putting shackles on, that would be the 3rd or 4th pair that we can break by just flexing.

>>4671030
Oh, and get Ming too. Time for to captain to see someone that can get angrier than him.

>>4671004
>Stop Hien and refuse his plan.
>It's better that we remain in prison, thank you for your faith.
>Tell him about our plan to heal our friends and get them up to fighting standards.

Way I see it, is we calm the villagers while also assuring them that help is on their way/is already here.
Now though, put us in as close to max security as they can manage, then keep all the keys with the captain personally, getting rid of the chance of being beaten to death in our meditations. We can astrally project to Renshu to explain to him the situation from our cell.

>>4671030
Actually, should we tell Hien of the plan we have for now, so ge doesn't get worried that we being out for some time will not ruin everything?
>>4668558
It should be this one, if whatever changes the others anons want to propose.

>>4671070
With, not if.
Really mangled that one.

>>4671070
there there anon.

But assuring him that a few days lost won't mean shit since we will be trying to restore our friends to health. Maybe tell him to ask shifu about chi healing if he really wants an explination.

>>4671074
Well, I was thinking about telling him the olan so he could theorize a better one too if he could too.
But atleast reassuring him is good enough for me.

I do need to point out that refusing his plan means you choose to stay in jail. I'm also not sure what you mean about meditating in jail but I get the concern of being beat to hell while in it.

>>4671088
Meditating, Coma, same thing.

But if the captain is the only one with the cell key, then I'd like to trust him with it.

>>4671088
I know, we are healing Renshu and Xin, and asking that the captain ensures our wellfare in one of the cells.
They and Ming come around at night, we do our thing, Ming ensures we don't die,
Hien refines the plan we take a nap.

Also Xin and Renshi will probably threaten murder if anything happens, and Hien threatens post-mortal dishonarable discharge. And Ming probably threatens a fate worse than death.

>>4671148
The only problem would be if there would be health complications without Ming looking over the wounds we take from them. If that would be the case, we would have to find another arrangement.

>>4671030
>>4671056
We're going to jail then even though the bunnies need hugs Writing.

>>4671176
They are going to get hugs tonight when they come get healed.
That's part of the deal, take it or leave it.