“I think it would be best if we avoid that line of thinking.” Shifu says as he takes a cup of tea. “If we act as if this is a means of getting rid of Tai Lung, then there would be attempts to subvert or simply ignore the ideas we present. As he said, we have to convince the nobles to agree to our plan wholly and not simply as a way to ignore the problem and having the support of the Lord of China and The Five will help with that. We just need to make them see that the supposed threat Tai Lung presents is nothing compared to a war breaking out in China.”

“There is more.” You say as you continue to play with your food. “Mongolia may not be the only force we need to deal with. I’ve been told that there is a land beyond it. One full of ice and death. One of the invaders was not of the north that we know and perhaps is from that strange land. It’s possible that whoever is behind this has found a new ally. One we may know nothing about.”

“A land beyond the north? Are you certain?” Shifu asks in stunned confusion.

You nod. “Yes. I’ve talked with someone more knowledgeable on the subject. Plus the last notes my friends left me seemed to corroborate that as well. I intend to investigate that myself but that is a goal for another time.”

“A land unexplored…do you think that they can be convinced to ally with us?” Hien asks.

“I’m not sure but I know that Renshu might be there as well…I can only hope that he is trying to do the same.” You admit. “But that brings me to the next thing. I’ll need some time. I have to gather my friends and from the sound of it, they may be in trouble themselves. It might be something else to try and convince the nobles of. To give me some time to prepare.”

“Allowing you to wander China on your own might not be something they’d like. But it might appease them if we suggest someone to go along with you.” Hien says.

“I think I’d rather go alone.” You say. “It might be better that way. Given how things happened in the library, I’d rather they feel more open to talking about it than trying to skirt the subject because someone else is there. Even so, it’s best if everyone is focused on preparing rather than babysitting me.”

“I could offer to accompany you.” Hien says. “There won’t be much argument there and we’ve all been through enough that the others should be comfortable being around me.”

“Do you think they’ll let you go after they finally caught you?” You tease.

“My next escape will be just another tale to the legend.” Hien jokes.

“Then it seems like we have all our plans in order. The next time we meet, it’ll be before the Empress herself. I hope that our plans pan out.” He says.

“I hope so too. Before you leave though…I was told of something else. There is someone interested in the Pool of Sacred Tears. I wasn’t told anything beyond that but someone wishes to get a vial of the waters. I would remain on guard when you return home.” You say.

“Did they say anything else? For what reason? There are many who would like some of that water but are they willing to try and steal it?”

“I don’t know anything beyond that. Just that there is an interest in it. I’m sorry.” You say.

“Times are dark indeed if someone is attempting to steal from a sacred site.” Shifu says, stroking his beard. “Well that is something we will need to deal with later. For now, we focus on the nobles, and Tai Lung…stop playing with your food. You’re mangling that sandwich.”

You look down to see the lump of meat and veggies that was once your sandwich. It seems that your curse with food has claimed another victim.

---

Opulent. There was no other word that could describe the Royal Palace and even then it seemed to fail to convey the awe and glory it presented. Compared to the Feng family home, the royal palace made it look like a small rundown hut. You could almost fit another small city in the grounds and you had trouble finding one end of the grounds to the others. Hundreds of workers and servants walked around making sure everything was clean and well maintained. If you didn’t know where you were, you might have mistook them for regular people living in another city. Large statues lined the main road towards the palace proper, visages of the past Emperors in all their regal glory. Exotic plants and flowers could be seen throughout the paths, imported from outside of China or from hard to reach locations from within the nation itself. It seemed that even the servants were dressed better than the average person, their clothing seemingly made of fine silk or something more durable for everyday labor.

You were never one to care for status or what others thought of you but walking through the palace really did put into perspective the difference between someone like you and royalty. You were a peasant. Someone in any other life would not be worth a second look but here you were planning to speak in front of the Empress herself. Furthermore, you spoke to her younger brother as if he were an equal which was far from the case. Nervously, you adjust your clothing in a vain attempt to try and look more presentable. Luckily for you, it seemed like you weren’t the only one.

The guards around you also were doing their best to try and look more formal, hastily trying to buff out dents and scratches from their armor with the cloth in their uniform as the royal guard approached. Clad in pristine regalia, the squad of the palace guard marched towards you in perfect unison. Each step was made exactly at the same time as those around them. Their armor gleaned and glittered in the sun, perfectly polished and kept in such condition that you could have sworn it was made just this day. The nervous air around you seemed to grow as the guards noticed who was leading the on coming troops. A large male lynx, nearly your size in both height and width marched towards you. Even in his extravagant armor, you could see he was no pompous fool who had earned his place via nepotism. His features were hard and sharp, eyes weathered with experience and his stance born of thousands of repetitions. He was like a taut bowstring, ready to snap forward and attack at a moment’s notice. This was the General of China’s army approaching you and there was no doubt that he was just as deadly alone as the entire troop he was leading.

“S-sir, General Sir.” The guard closest to you stammers and throws a salute. The rest of the guards around you salute as well and though the delay between all of them was only a fraction of a second, it felt like days between each and everyone of them compared to the men approaching you. “We’ve brought the prisoner as instructed.”

“At ease and dismissed.” The General says calmly.His voice was deep and commanding. There was nothing dismissive nor demeaning in his tone, he was simply giving an order. The guards around you do their best to back away in unison but the General paid their attempts no mind. Instead, he motions behind him and the palace guard immediately moves to surround you in perfect unison once more. Without another word, the group begins to move forwards towards the palace. If the guards were nervous or uneasy they did not show it. It was rather impressive and somewhat unnerving to see the level of self restraint these men and women had. You were used to far more incompetent and emotional people who worked as soldiers. Your travel into the palace is a quiet one, save for the sounds of marching around you and the myriad of worried whispers from the servants. You half expected the General, who was walking along besides you, to gloat or perhaps even warn you of not trying anything but he simply continued onward. You were simply something else to deliver, nothing more.

Ultimately, you were led into the large palace and off into a small hallway or at least what could be considered small here. In truth the hallway could still fit 4 or 5 people side to side. “You’ll be staying here.” The General says. “The Five will be watching over you as you wait for your audience with her majesty.” The guards split apart to allow him to open the door and for the first time you catch a flicker of emotion in his eyes, breaking his composure briefly. You lean a bit to look into the and see The Five sitting around a table…along with Hien.

“You’ve arrived.” Hien says cheerfully as he waves you inside. “We were just discussing our upcoming meeting.”

“Hien, you were forbidden from being here.” The General says, his voice only barely betraying a hint of frustration. “The Empress has made it explicitly clear that you are not to spend any more time with the prisoner.”

“I’ll be fine.” Hien replies good naturedly, unaffected by the presence of their brother. “Sunsun doesn’t need to worry. The Five can protect me and you’ll have guards posted outside anyways. I want to speak to Tai Lung anyways and what is more safe than doing it here?”

“Hien you cannot keep undermining her majesty’s authority. She may be your sister but she is also your elder sibling on top of being Empress. What she says is for your own safety irregardless of the shame you are bringing to this family by being so willful.” The General replies. “This is no mere bandit and you are over playing your authority. If I must place you under house arrest I will do so. We have already been lenient to your past actions because of what you accomplished but if you continue to treat this as a game then I will have to exert my own authority.” Hien crosses his arms.

“Brother I am well aware of what I am doing, and I believe I am making the right choice. Everything I have done has been with the future of China in mind and I have done nothing but treat this as seriously as possible. I simply choose not to be held down by the gravity of the situation.” The General casts a cold, hard look at Hien.

“We will have words about this.” He says quietly. “This discussion is not over.” Even so, he maintains his composure, turns and leads some of his men away as you step through the door and into the small room. The tension in the air does not abate as the Five watch you nervously.

>What do you do?
>Write in

Phew, that was a lot of writing but we're moving forward. So that's a plus.

Oh wow, this quest is still up? Last time I read it we were fighting that tiger guy who cursed people with a magic poison. I drew a picture of him, I think. I dunno why I stopped reading.
You know what? I’m gonna go read the archive and catch up.

>>5376689
>greet them and ask how they have been since we last saw each other.
>Ask Poe if he has come any further in developing his own fighting style.
>Ask Crane if he has been able to deepen his connection

if there's tea pour our selves a cup.

I thought we would tell shi fu that they could use the water to find the pools twin.

>>5376689
>I simply choose not to be held down by the gravity of the situation.
Hien is a newtype confirmed.
>>5377235
Support.
>>5376689
>Say that we met Tigress and she was the one that passed down Xin's message. She is troubled, but well
>Ask Crane if he felt the trouble on the winds, and if it has affected him
>Ask Mei Ling how she is fitting in as an official member of the Five. You heard news of their mission to the swamp, her experience with the library must have helped.
>>5377217
That's around thread 4 I think? Good luck you got a lot to catch up. I look forward to have you back anon.
Don't mind the autism during the library days, we got better

>>5377217
Oh man. I loved that picture. Good to see you back. Anon is right...we kinda hit a rough spot in the library. All my bad I feel. We moved past it.

>>5377235
>>5377270
Taking this then. Writing.

>>5377235
Oh I thought you just wanted to warn Shifu of possible theft. I can add that here. It'd still fit.

You close the door behind you and stand there awkwardly for a moment. "I hope that your journey here wasn't too bad." You say as you sit down and grab the tea pot. While not hot, it was warm enough that you risked pouring yourself a cup of tea in hopes that it was not cold and bitter. "Needless to say, I had to go through a few things to get here myself."

As expected, you receive various noncomittal mumbles in response save for one person. Mei Ling grabs another cookie and takes a nibble, looking rather pleased with herself. "It wasn't so bad. I've only been here once but it's still kind of a lot to take in. Guess that's one more than the Great Tai Lung, isn't it?" She teases.

"You'd be right about that. Last I heard, you acheived your dream and became one of the Five. Has it been everything you imagined?" You ask as you take a sip. Apple based tea...interesting.

"It's everything and more." She replies. "I feel like I'm making a bigger difference in the world than I was before. All those years of training and practice now feel worth it."

"There's always ways to put one's training into practice. Being a hero isn't the only way to help. Teaching is actually quite fufilling and that's coming from exprience but I'm glad you have found your place in life." You say. "What about you Crane? How have the winds been treating you?"

Crane coughs into his drink from being put on the spot. He hastily grabs a few napkins and composes himself. "They're...quiet and still. Too quiet. The winds are heavy."

You nod. "Things are happening that are affecting the world. Just know that the wind can use all the support you can give it. Hopefully in due time, things will return to normal but for now we need to weather the storm that is coming. Still, you have a talent few have. I think you should try and continue to further your understanding of the winds. They are valuable allies and their companionship is a blessing. The elementals can provide unique perspectives to contemplate on. "

"Do you really think...war is coming?" Po asks nervously. The large panda had changed quite a lot since you last saw him. Though he still sported a large and rotund belly, his arms and body were much more developed than before. You could see hints of muscle buldging from undernethe all the fur. The Dragon Warrior was slowly developing into the man people expected him to be though it seemed he had not lost the atittude he started with. That was good. It meant that he had not lost himself to pride.

"I think that it is a possibliity." You say honestly. "But that's why we are here. In hopes of preventing that from happening. As I've taught, even though we train ourself to fight our skills are meant to prevent harm. Fighting is a last resort. I think this applies here as well. We are not here to invade and destroy a nation in revenge. Just to simply disarm those who would do harm and bring them to justice. There is a possibility that there are those up north who do not condone the actions of the invaders. That in itself might make them a target as well as possible allies."

"Is it true then?" Mei Ling asks. "You're planning on going there alone?"

"Not alone. I have my friends to join me. Though they might be scattered, I'll do everything to find them. Together I think we can put an end to this."

"I want to come along!" Mei Ling says. "I can't just sit here knowing that there is evil to stop."

>What do you say?
>Write in.

>>5377431
> I don't particularly mind you coming but you should ask Shifu first.

>>5377431
>Even if we convince the nobles, they will most likely demand a handler, and I would certantly prefer if it a friend like you was the one chosen.

>>5377431
she's one of the five... She should be wary of leaving them a man down for so long

>>5377731
>>5377653
>>5377485
I'll take these. Writing.

"Even if we convince the nobles, they will most likely demand a handler. I don't find it likely they'd want me out of sight once more and I would certainly prefer it if it was a friend than some random guard. Though while I don't particularly mind it being you, you should ask Shifu first. You are one of the Five and that comes with certain responsibilities." You say.

"Yeah, and one of those responsibilities is to help those in danger." Mei Ling responds.

"While you are correct, I'm afraid I'll have to deny you your request if your intention is to leave China with Tai Lung." Hien says as he blows on his hot cup of tea. The rooms goes quiet and all turn to face the young lord. "Loathe that I am to exert my authority, I'm afraid that I cannot allow you to leave the country. The people need to see that the Five are together. Even one member missing will cause them to worry, especially if we are raising an army. How will China be safe if there is no Five. Already you should have seen the ripples caused by Master Tigress's leave." He adds taking a sip.

"Surely you don't suggest that you'll be accompanying Tai Lung, my lord?" Shifu asks. Hien shakes his head.

"No, I'm afraid I'm more bound here than any of you. Should a member of the royal family go missing at such a time then only the Gods now what kind of chaos might erupt. I must also remain here." Hien replies.

"Then who?" You ask, now geniunely curious. "You can't expect the nobles to just let me go alone."

"I have a few choices. For the time being, we can argue that the Five or at least one of them can accopmany you to find your friends. From there, either you simply head to Mongolia alone or you can take the one only member of the Five that is not bound by the responsibilities of the group." Hien says.

"Po?" You ask. "But China needs the Dragon Warrior here."

"No. Tigress." Hien says.

"What?!"

"She is a member of the Five. Whether she likes it or not. Her presence in the group is ingrained in public memory and despite her attempts otherwise, she still belongs there. However, it's is also well known that she no longer associates with The Five as they are now. Given that fact, she is the only one the public will understand if she is no longer seen with the group or even traveling with you. The other option of course is for you to simply go alone and let the public think you've escaped once more. It might not ingratiate you with the nobles after that but such is the price for freedome." Hien explains.

>What do you say?
>Write in.

>>5377928
>I doubt she is going to agree, but I won't turn her away if you manage to do a miracle. It might even do her some good to have to deal with the source of her problems instead of avoiding it.

>>5377934
It's time to do the duty we have been negleting for so long: being a cool older brother.

>>5377934
>support

>>5377935
But TL is a cool older brother to Ming and Xin and Bao. He gives headpats, hugs, and ear scritches. The little sister universe is expanding.

>>5377934
>>5377941
Writing.

"I doubt she is going to agree, but I won't turn her away if you managed to somehow make a miracle happen. It could do her some good to deal with the source of her problems instead of avoiding it." You admit as you take a fruit from the table.

"I think she would if it meant keeping an eye on you or if it meant keeping China safe. Do you think she's willing to trust you going in unsupervised to prevent a war?" Hien asks with a soft smile. You think about it for a moment. What would Tigress think if she heard that you were going into a nation on the brink of invasion due to prior agressions of generations past. Certainly not anything peaceful.. If anything she'd probably think you'd go to slaughter everyone.

"No..." You finally admit. "I think she'd put up with me if only to make sure I don't murder everyone in sight...that or to make sure I go back to jail once this is all over."

"That will be bridge we will cross once this is all over." Hien says.

"Speaking of Tigress. Have you heard from her?" You ask. "She didn't seem to keen on coming here."

"No. I don't think anyone has." Hien says as he looks around. The rest of the Five all shake their heads.

"We haven't heard anything from here since she left. There's been rumors here and there. A few stories but nothing that would help us find her." Monkey says.

"She'll be here." Po says confidently. "She wouldn't just ignore something like this."

"It's almost time for the meeting to start." You say. "I hope she does make it. Even if it means her arguing against my points. I don't want her to walk the same path I did...maybe she needs the Pools more than I. Maybe that's just another reason to find them. It does remind me of what I told you yesterday, father. Part of the reason the water was needed was to find the other pool but that was just so both can have water collected. I'm not entirely sure why and I didn't feel comfortable delivering it myself even if it did mean finding the location faster."

"I'm sorry, what?" Shifu asks, dropping his tea. "Someone wants water from both Pools? Why didn't you ask? Who is this person who told you? We can't let someone just get water from both locations. They're places of immeasurable power."

>What do you say?
>Write in

>>5379693
>It's the person that gave me the locations of my friends and this compass, Xin had pointed me to her. She is some sort of mystical information broker, from a long line that treats her job like we treat kung fu. She knows a ritual that allows her to observe the passage of chi, and to both track and understand it. It seems her interest in the waters is entirely academic.
>I can't tell you much more father, I don't know of the dragons approve of her work, or if they would destroy her, and so I promised to not reveal much about her.
>The location of the other pool may be lost now that the Sacred Library is gone, and she might be the only chance to find it, and be able to protect it. But she did ask for me to steal it, and worked with an order of assassins, even if forced to. It's up to you to decide father.

>>5379726
For us (or the five) to be able to protect it, not that the old panda lady would defend the place.

>>5379726
basically this...

but do we tell Po she's a panda?

>>5380213
I don't know, she is hard to find and talk to without the coin and when we asked about any panda enclaves to help Po she said things would happen at their own pace.
On the other hand, Po is a good guy and deserves to know about his own people, even of he is happy with his adopted family. TL has show that he too is happy with Shifu, but is still curious about the Snow Leopards and wanting to help a dying people.
Maybe we tell him only if Shifu is ok with Web?

Sorry. Been under the weather the last few days which fortunately or unfortunately, came up when I was in the middle of some routine check ups. Posts will start back up tomorrow. Question though, if you tell Po that she is a panda, will you also reveal her location as well? Though she was not willing to divulge information to you about Pandas, it's not a far stretch that she might be more open to another of her race. Just keep in mind what kind of person Po is and the kind of deals Madam Web offers.

>>5382175
Po is too innocent for Web.
Let's just say she told us that everything will happen in due time.
Maybe if she wanted to meet him, she shouldn't have pussyfooted around the issue

>>5382835
Or perhaps she has her own plans for the Dragon Warrior. Thinking about it, I think Po has been the Dragon Warrior for two years at least. I gotta figure what other stuff he's been up to.

>>5383132
has he started to make his own fighting style.

"The woman who told me how to find my friends. Xin was the one who directed me to her. Someone who used to work for an order of assassins, albeit against her will. She some kind of sorceress and has powers I never imagined. She seems to come from a long line of magic users though it's less hereditary and more of a title. She is the one that asked me to get the water though as far as I can tell her interest in it is purely academic. She might be the only person who can find the location of the Pools now that the Sacred Library is gone but ultimately the choice is yours father." You explain. "I'm afraid I can't say anymore than that. I'm not sure how her work would be viewed by the dragons or if they would even allow her to live so I can't say anymore."

"Absolutely not." Shifu says sternly. "We swore to protect those waters and keep them safe. Simply handing it over to someone you don't even know, someone who worked with assassins no less, flies in the face of everything I ever taught you. How do we know she can even be trusted? Do you know exactly what she's going to do with it?"

"No. I assume some kind of ritual to locate the other Pool as she did with for my friends." You say. "She didn't really say what she wanted the water for exactly. However, she kept her end of the deal for everything I bartered with her so I trust that she will continue to do so. It's her buisness that's on the line after all."

"Regardless of that, we do not know her motives nor intentions. That water is sacred and if she is some kind of soceress then we can only imagine what she will do with water from the Pools. Even all the good it can do with knowing where the location of the other pool is, the risks are too great. I will not allow it." Shifu continues.

"Then I can only hope her archives have the answers we seek." You reply. "If not then I will continue my search by foot. But I won't give up on my quest, just like I won't give up on my friends. I'll do what I have to do, just like I always have." Shifu opens his mouth to speak but before he can say anything a knock on the door interrupts the conversation. A duck pokes his head in nervously before announcing,

"Her Majesty is ready to see you."

Whatever sense of ease the room had slowly drains away as everyone does their best to appear more professional. Everyone, you included, makes a quick check to make sure clothings were on straight, loose objects were packed and stored away, and spends a few moments to mentally prepare. You weren't really sure what to expect to be honest. You had never been in the capital and would have never actually thought that you would meet the ruler of the country beyond self fufilling fantasies. It hit you that yet again you were doing something that very few people had ever done in their lives. Part of you wonders how many people have actually spoken to the Empress outside of her ussual members of the court. You didn't even think your father had spoken to her other than the time he delivered the raiders to the capital.

Swallowing, you get up and begin to follow the group out into the hall way and back down to the main entrance to follow the even larger pathway to the heart of the Palace. Uncomfortable feelings run down your back as you walk through the large hall as your body seems to remember something your mind cannot. A strong sense of deja vu hits you and though you do your best to remember, nothing comes to mind. The only logical conclusion is that whatever your body is remembering instinctively, is something that was ruined when you traded away your memories to find your friends. A realization that does not help your mood.

You and The Five are stopped infront of a enormous set of double doors that presumably lead into the Empress's throne room and the duck speaks up once more. "Just a moment please, I must annoucne your arrive to her Radiance." The duck quickly knocks on the almost comically large door before slipping in and you all stand around awkawardly. If you had something quick to say to the Five regarding this meeting, now was the time to say it.

>What do you do?
>Simply wait to be allowed in.
>Give quick message to the Five.
>Write in.

>>5383194
He has actually. Might need to come up with somethign so the two of you can team up.

>>5383256
>The Xiao and the Lan will be the hardest ones for me to convince, the Lan think I somehow travelled half of China just to kidnap Xin in a day when I had just escaped and was heading towards the Jade Palace, and the Xiao are obssessed with law, and will see me anything I say as lies from a criminal. As long as you can help me convince one of them, the plan will have a slight majority, and so the Li will support it.
>Hien's brother also seen to be against me, and trying to convince a royal will most likely be difficult. I can only hope being vouched by the five and military man like (the tiger and boar from Taishi) can help smoth it over.

>>5383256
>Simply wait to be allowed in.

Rolled 1 (1d2)

Just gonna roll for the choice.

"Ok, so the biggest obstacles are going to be The Xiao family and the Lan family. Both are ferverant in their adherance to the law. It'd be best that we try and focus on the others instead of them because if we can seem like the majority, the Li family will move to support it. Hien's brother will be someone we should get on our side, having the support of the military itself would give credence to our cause though it may take all of us to convince him." You manage to whisper before the doors open before you all. As you step forward, the duck calls out a bit too loudly,

"You now stand in presence of Empress Zhangsun! Heiress to the realm! Blessed by divine providence! Wise beyond her years!..." The duck continues for what seems like a solid minute of titles and honorifics causing the nobles at the large table at the foot of the Empress's throne to roll their eyes in boredom. The Empress herself remains motionless and stoic, neither embrassed nor proud of the long speech happening in her name. You, too, ignore the constant prattle of the duck as you're attention is demanded by the Empress's presence.

Fire. The heat and radianance of pure fire suffused the room, almost suffocating it with it's presence as it radiates off the Empress like a beacon that cut through the fog at sea. You had felt something similar to this before when you entered Shenlong's garden and felt Bao return for the first time. Unlike the heavy pressure of the winds that you had come to associate with comfort and refreshment, the fire seemed to threaten to smother you. Every fiber in your being wanted to kneel, to submit to the presence of the Dragon of Fire as if it was the most natural thing in the world, just like breathing. It's only when you feel a slight refreshing presence within you, like a gentle breeze flowing through your veins, that you come to your senses and realize your knees were locked up and tense in resistence to the urges. This was what it was like to be in the presence of the heir to the Dragon's flame, the one true High Priestess of the Dragon of Fire, the leader of your country. This was not some random mortal who demanded loyalty through money or inheritance but real power.

You cast a quick glance around the room but no one else seemed to notice the sheer power and authority that you were feeling. Was this because of your sensitivity to the spirits? Your intimiate connection to the other side? Were they affected by this feeling or was their ignorance of the spiritual side blinding them and therefore rendering them deaf to the presence of fire? It was as you were scanning the room, you accidentally lock eyes with the Empress. Despite her neutral expression, you get the feeling that she politely acknowledges your presense beyond simply physically standing before her. Did she sense your connection with Shenlong? You wonder if you emitted some kind of presence of wind and how it would compare to the Empress. You'd like to think that bearing the title of friend of the wind gave you some kind of advantage but you weren't sure. You were no High Priest. Even so, anxiousness gives away to curiosity. You had never met anyone who wasn't closely linked to Shenlong or the wind. This was your first time meeting someone representing a different element. You couldn't help but wonder of all the possibilities.

A loud cough pulls you away from your thoughts and you see that everyone around you besides Hien was kneeling. The young prince gives you a curious yet slightly concerned look but with holds what ever questions he may have wanted to ask. The looks the rest of the room, however, are less than concerned.

"Well...do you think yourself above your Empress?" One of the nobles, a peacock, speaks up in a indignant voice. "Or perhaps you think that evading the law for so long has somehow made you think that you can get away with disrespecting your ruler in her own court?!"

"Perhaps his constant fighting has addled his mind." Another noble says. "He is a violent offender. Perhaps he has received too many blows to the head."

Before the room can devolve into jeers, the Empress speaks up. "He has come far to deliver a message. One of great importance as I've been told. Given that he is potentially risking his freedom by walking into the most guarded city in China, I would like to hear what he is risking everything for." She says. Her voice was calm but commanding. There was a tone of finality to it that harbored no argument but was composed enough to show an open mind to those she spoke to. "Is this not true, Tai Lung of the Valley of Peace?"

>What do you do?
>Kneel and allow Hien to speak first. He knows the courts best and will be able to provide a good starting arguement.
>Apologize but start talking. What you have to say does not give time to pleasantries and tradition.
>Kneel and apologize. It's best to simply do what the nobles want for now if you want to get in their good graces.
>Simply start talking. You think the Empress is ok with you not kneeling. It's hard to tell with someone who has been raised all her life to play politics and lead but in reality this may just be a test of hers to see if you are worth trusting.
>Write in.

>>5384308
>Kneel and allow Hien to speak first. He knows the courts best and will be able to provide a good starting arguement.

>>5384308
>Kneel and allow Hien to speak first. He knows the courts best and will be able to provide a good starting arguement.

>>5384430
Actually, let me change to
>Yes your majesty, I come bearing grave news from the north.
Give a bow, but don't kneel
>But first, I ask you to forgive me lack of manners, the palace I come from was only one in name, and I have no knowledge of nobility or it's customs. I will not insult you by pretending to be something I'm not.
>The raiding army that was defeat was not the last of the mongols. They have found the location of the Sacred Library, and used the secret tunnels that were meant for supplies to march an army upt the mountain, and have razed it to ground. Not only that, but they have desacrated all of it, murderered the Exarch, a friend of the wind and chosennof Shenlong, raised the bodies of the dead and looted many secrets from it.
>There is a great chance they have obtained a copy of the scroll that they attempted to steal in the first raid, putting the imperial bloodline at risk. I know it is hard to believe how foreigners have learned the locations and secrets of China, but I have discovered that these mongols are being manipulated by an old exiled noble family, the Kexin (that's the name right?), one that went against orders from the Emperor and started a war with Mongolia. They have been using their knowledge of the imperial bureaucracy to target those that know China's secrets, and been fueling the drudges of the mongolian tribes by putting the blame on China by crimes they themselves comitted. I'm afraid they will stop at nothing until they have their revenge and see our lands destroyed.
The Empress asked us directly, so it's best to answer have to answer

>>5384308
>Kneel and start talking
>Ask what she knows of the mongolian invasion
>give details like in >>5384459

"My apologies your majesty, but I've come bringing important news that I forgot my manners." You say as you quickly bend your knee. "You're highness, we've lost the Sacred Library. The mongol raiders we had assumed to been routed and defeated have returned and have razed the city to the ground-"

"Impossible!" One of the nobles shouts. "The Sacred Library is safely hidden and can never be found so easily that a meger band of riffraff could find it. Furthermore, it's defenses are more than a match for mere bandits."

"Let us not even begin on the fact that they would allow some like you to enter their streets. Even if we to begin to believe that, how do we know that you didn't just do it yourself?" Another scoffs as they fan their face with an ornate paper fan.

"Because he led me to the city." Hien replies. "And I have seen the destruction myself first hand...not to mention the bodies. Your radiance, Tai Lung is no liar. Despite his past and who the man he was, he is no liar. Everything he has said is the truth and I ask that his words be listened to before he is judged. Furthermore, it is because of his companions that the city may yet live on. They have successfully managed to evacuate the City's citizens. It will be through them that the city will live on.

The Empress gives a slight nod and motions to you, "Is it true? The Sacred Library is no more?"

"It is true, your majesty. Though I wish it with all my heart that is was not so, China has suffered a great loss. Though the entire city was not receptive to my presence, a good portion of it accepted me despite who I was and offered to teach me as they would any other. Not only that but they also wished to learn from me of what little I could offer. Of all the places in China, I would have considered it a second home. It is why I come here, despite the threat of imprisonment, to relay the news and the signs of what's to come." You explain and murmurings among the nobles rise though none dare defy the young lord and interrupt you. "This attack was not simply another raid or looting. Hien and I believe that this was a sign, a warning if you will. By attacking our nation's greatest source of knowledge, then they have crippled our ability to rebuild our nation if we were to be brought to the brink by war. Not only is this a major strategic attack but it sends a message. We are not as powerful as we think, and we can be felled. For our enemies, it is a great victory. Their morale rises while our plummets."

"You speak as if this attack was premeditated." A noble in judge's garb speaks. "Are you implying that these northern savages are somehow organized? Last I checked, the people of the north are scattered and disinterested in civilization."

"They are organized and they're plotting." You continue. "This attack was coordinated, with dark rituals being employed at the expense of their own men. Not something that could have been done at the spur of the moment. As proof I offer this." You turn to Hien and he carefully hands you the bag containing a few of the totems you found on the bodies of the Mongols. "We found these strange totems on the bodies of the invaders. While their true purpose is not fully known to us, I recognize the effect they had on their owners. The dead rising at night, strange marks in the ground, this is far too similar to the ritual used to preseve the final moments of a library should the secret scrolls of the empire are threatened."

"How do you know of that?!" The rabbit shouts.

"It was I and my friends that ran across it when we first found signs of the original Mongol raids. It was I who told Hien of it when we first met." You reply calmly. "And it is I that theorizes that our enemies have found a way to replicate what was meant to be a final honorable sacrifce of a village into a cruel and twisted weapon. One that was employed on the city itself and has descrated it's lands beyond recognition. Even now our great patrons, the Dragons, reel in anguish and grief as such a brazen attack. These totems are dangerous but I bring them here so that perhaps the royal courts might find a way to help restory the Sacred Library to its former glory if not simply free it from the clutches of it's cursed state."

"Tell me, are you some kind of sorcerer?" A peacock speaks up politely, their eyes glinting with curiosity. "I've never heard of you having such abilities."

"No." You say shaking your head. "But I have spend the last 2 years studying the connection of Chi to the world around it. I am well aquainted with it and have a personal connection to the wind itself."

"Preposterous." One of the nobles speaks up. "As if you would know anything about spirituality. There are men and women who dedicate their entire lives in hopes of glimpsing beyond the mortal sight and you come claiming you spent two years to surpass them?"

"He speaks the truth." The Empress says simply. "He carries a Great Dragon's blessing."

The room instantly goes quiet and all heads turn to face the Empress but at the moment she only has eyes on you. You take this as an opportunity to continue. "Your majesty, I bring this up because I belive that the scroll that were stolen may have been copied. It's possible that the people behind these attacks have imperial secrets. Secrets that put not only you and your family in danger, but all anyone who has ties to the throne. While such information, our enemies could wipe out the entire royal lineage even that of distant relatives." At this, a lynx at the table seems to grow suddenly nervous.

"N-nonsense. Such scrolls do not exist...do they not?" They ask the Empress directly.

File: e945ec42850da7cf_d58d427a_540.jpg (74 KB, 503x527)

74 KB JPG

"You are a fool if you think they are not, Li." The Elder Feng says crossing his arms. "Or has your line grown so lazy and complacent that they forget their own duties?"

"I'll not be spoken to like that Feng." The lynx says, their face growing red. "You may be among the noblity but I'll have you know the Li family is still related our Empress's line! You will learn your place!"

"Related or not, you sit among us and not on the throne." The Elder Feng says not bothering to look at them. "Until you reside as the primary residents of the royal palace, I'll not be intimidated to bend my knee to you or your heirs."

"Feenng-" The lynx growls but is interrupted by the fox.

"Tai Lung," Feng commands, "Elucidate for your Empress and tell us, how powerful do you estimate these northerners are?"

"Lord Feng, do not tell me you are going to place your faith in this man?" The rabbit asks. "Of all people?"

"I agree with Lord Lan. This man is a wanted criminal and has shown disregard to the laws of our country. Surely, a man so dedicated to his rulers would know better than to listen to him." The judge says but the Feng patriarch seems to ignore this and remains quiet.

>What do you say?
>Say that the mongols have an army and one that rivals that of China's. The forces you have faced now are nothing in comparison.
>Say that the mongols are a threat, not because of their size but because of their tactics. They seem to know exactly how to strike and where. It's not their army you fear but their disregard for morality.
>Say that you do not know and it's not possible to say. They have allies in nations that you didn't even know existed and with how little China communicates with the north, it's possible the scattered tribes have all unified. It this unknown that causes you to urge the royal courts to prepare for war.
>Write in.

>>5388199
>Mongolia is vast, even larger than we think it is. I cannot say how many tribes there are, or how many have joined our enemy. I also do not know how many exiles or mercenaries they have at their employ. However, I do know that they have allies to the far north, a place we don't even know existed. I know that because during the siege they were aided by a large white bear who spoke a language unlike the rest. One of my companions befriended him, and comviced him to turn on the mongols when they did attack. Although we got separated, I believe he fled together with this Aleksander to his home, and is trying to break their alliance. If there are people at the far north allied to the Mongols, who is to say that there isn't also people on the west?
>But even if their army were smaller than China's, it would not matter. They know how to maneauver around our nation, while hidding their precense, how to avoid the biggest resistance and how to force the confrontations to be in favorable conditions. I've believe Sun Tzu wrote about this in the Art of War? The only way I managed to defeat them was because my companions found out about their strategy of rotating through the ruins as their camps, and ambushed them in the razed cities and forests. And even them, we still needed the help of the Five after putting a sleeping powder on their camp to be able to win. Still, I have to doubt if it was an army, they would have just sacttered and picked it one by one while it marched.
Defeat in detail sucks, and nomads even more. Maybe it's the horse archers sharing their annoying powers to rest since they can't show up.
I take we didn't mention the Kexin because they are going to ask about it later?

>>5388277
The last line is a bit ambiguous.
I meant to say that if instead of the five and us doing some guerrila warfare and sabotage it was a chinese army going to fight them, the mongols would have scattered and picked it one by one.

>>5388199
>Say that the mongols are a threat, not because of their size but because of their tactics. They seem to know exactly how to strike and where. It's not their army you fear but their disregard for morality.

>Say that you do not know and it's not possible to say. They have allies in nations that you didn't even know existed and with how little China communicates with the north, it's possible the scattered tribes have all unified. It this unknown that causes you to urge the royal courts to prepare for war.

>>5388277
>I take we didn't mention the Kexin because they are going to ask about it later?
Yep but first there's a bit of convincing to do. Bringing up a long exiled family and pinning the blame on them wouldn't look good on your part when they don't trust you.

>>5388277
>>5388543
Taking these and writing.

"Mongolia is vast, even larger than we think it is. I cannot say how many tribes there are, or how many have decided to band against us. I also do not know if they have any exile or mercenaries under their employ. What I do know is that they have found allies to the north, in a place we never knew existed. A large white bear by the name of Aleksander. From what little information was left to me, the man speaks a language unlike any other. It is possible that the Mongols have found other allies to the north as well. Currently, one of my friends is up there and I can only hope that he is attempting to dissuade them from helping the Mongolians. If we can turn people to our side, we would be better suited to withstand an attack. But the size of their army is not what concerns me. They've shown time and time again that they are not afraid to forgo their morality to secure a victory. Combine with their extensive knowledge of how and where to attack us, it does not matter how large their army is. As the great General Sun Tzu once said, 'If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. All warfare is based on deception. Hence, when we are able to attack, we must seem unable; when using our forces, we must appear inactive; when we are near, we must make the enemy believe we are far away; when far away, we must make him believe we are near.' Our enemies know us as well if not better than we currently do. They understand their and our own strengths and weaknesses and are using them to strike when they have the most favorable conditions while we fail helplessly as we die."

The grows remains quiet as you speak, each word holding their attention. Maybe it is with the confidence you spoke or perhaps it was simply that you had developed a way with words you didn't have before. In anycase, the moment you ceased talking the nobles erupted into chatter once more.

"A new country? I've never heard of anything up north."

"If such a place exists why haven't they attempted to trade with us or the other nations? Surely we'd have heard of it through them."

"More and more nonsense. Strange languages? Even more foreigners?"

The chatter continues but only one person remains quiet. As if attempting to ignore the constant buzzing around him, the elder Feng speaks up. "His story is consistent with what we know." He says loudly as he hides the annoyance on his face. "Or have you all forgotten what the Five reported last year? Perhaps you mean to call them liars as well? The scrolls were delivered to the General and several raiders were brought to be sentenced. It is not a difficult thing to imagine that perhaps some of the information stolen was returned to their homeland. Thus, this raiding party was less of random banditry and more of a scouting force. I'm certain the General would agree with me on this."

Hien's brother, who up until this moment was merely standing at the ready and guarding his sister while attempting to ignore the petty squabbling of the nobles speaks up. "If are assumptions are true then we are far more vulnerable that we think we are."

"General, surely that is a bit of...an overstatement." The head of the Li family says placatingly. "Our nation is one of the strongest in the world. Even if some...tribals decided to attack us, an attempt against the nation proper would surely spell their doom."

"Our enemies have had a whole year if not longer to study our secrets, our tactics, and who knows how much more. It's quite possible that they know every secret in China. No place is safe and according to the criminal and Lord Hien, nothing is sacred to these people. We cannot assume anything about them any longer lest we plan to allow them to strike at us like that once more." The general says, contempt barely on the edge of his tone.

"The question does remain, how did these invaders find out the location of our scrolls in the first place." The judge, whom you assume to be the head of the Xiāo family, speaks up. "That they may know what they contained is a possibility if not a forgone conclusion. We must find out how they learned of it in the first place...lest we lose more of our secrets in the process."

"Just what are you implying?" Another noble asks. "That someone told them?"

"It is the only way. Someone must have told them. Those scrolls are our country's greatest secret and I for one will not rest until I find the one responsible for all of this." Xiāo says before turning to you. "Do not think this absolves you either. Should my investigations reveal you had a hand in this then there will be no mercy for you in any court here or in the afterlife."

"Really Xiāo. Who would be so brazen as to give away some kind of information like that? What could anyone gain from selling out their nation?" The other noble asks.

"Perhaps we should ask our messenger." Feng says. "He seems to have all the answers and he might even have a solution."

"A solution?!" The rabbit shouts. "You dare entrust a matter of national security to a beast like that? Have you taken leave of your senses Feng?!"

"So you admit that his message has merit then...If so then perhaps the rest of his words have some merit as well." The old fox says. The head of the Lan family goes quiet as he chokes on his own words, their scarlet eyes squinting and seemingly growing redder by the second.

"You are quite confident in this man, Lord Feng." The General says. "Could it be that he has already swayed you? Or perhaps you are already aware of what he is going to say?"

"My lord, it is my duty to protect you and your family. In order to do so, I am willing to entertain this man and his words for as long as need be if there is even a possibility that they may endanger you." He replies though the General remains unconvinced. The other nobles, sans the rabbit, turn to you in great interest to what you have to say.

>How do you suggest the country face this new threat?
>Write in.

>>5389309
>China needs to repair and reman the Great Wall so they will find it harder to directly invade, prepare the local garrisons on how the mongols operate so they will not be able to divide and conquer and keep a close eye on important buerocrats and nobles, their families and residents, to avoid that any more secrets and plans are taken by spies, assassins and agents.
>Meanwhile, a force needs to be sent to Mongolia, to remove whoever is uniting them, and to either bring neutral tribes to our side or concince them to break their alliance. The ones that directly answer to their leader are fanatical, but the rest follow either out of coersion, greed or vengeance.
>The mongols have show how they know to pick apart their enemies while invading us, I can only imagine how multipled that advantage would be in their own lands. Not only that, but Mongolia is a steppe, with the Gobi desert at our border, foraging for food and water will be harder, specially with our enemies can destroy it as we advance. So I propose that an elite force is sent instead of an army, small enough to be able to move swiftly and undected, but also strong enough to dral with the mongol's elite, that if the raiders captain are to go by, are a match to our China's greatest fighters.
>I'll go as part of that force. I have already experience fighting them, more than anyone else in China. And I recommend that the Five stay behind, as the ones with the second most experience they would be able to defend China from any attack, and being one of our country's most famous and respected, their disappearence would worry both our enemies and our people.
Part of me wants to say that we are going whether they want it or not, that everytime we stood by shit got worse, and to just see it as getting rid of us, penance through military service or a desperate deal, but it feels too confrontational.

>>5389432
Support

>>5389432
If sending away the five would worry the citizenry, what would they think knowing the most famouse criminal in the country is the one tasked to save them? Or do we not let the commoners know?

"We must build our defenses once more. The Great Wall must be repaired and fully manned. Word of how our enemy fights must be spread through the country so that we cannot be taken by surprise again. More importantly, we must stop the problem at the source. Even if we can convince the other tribes to ally with us or pull support, the ones behind it are fanatical and won't be swayed by words. We cannot send an army, lest we rally more of the tribes to join against us as they see us as an invading force. Furthermore, the lands are strange and forgein to us. Even directly north of us leaves us at a disadvantage. It is a desert and moving a large force would require more food and water than is reasonable to supply if we wish to leave our nation defended. Beyond that, we are going to be heading into unknown territory that our enemies have lived their entire lives in. Their fighting style would only be supplemented and we would more than likely be picked off en mass. By sending in a small force, we are more easily hidden and less likely to be spotted by our foes until it is time of us to strike. We should send only our very best as we cannot afford to fail and the only person I can see being that is me. I've experience with fighting the mongols, more so than anyone in China. The Five must remain behind to defend China incase the Mongol forces decide to send another force against us."

"Send you?!" Xiao scoffs. "Do you honestly think you can simply walk in here and just walk away without answering for your crimes? You're not only a mass murderer but a runaway as well. Frankly it's fairly obvious that you will submit to your ruler and away whatever punishment she sees fit to bestow upon you."

"Xiao is correct, nothing short of your execution will suffice in my honest opinion." Lan says. "You may think you're some man of morality but some of us can see you for what you really are."

"I do not think I can sleep safely knowing that he is free. Especially in the city my family resides in." Li says, feigning fidgeting.

"My Lords, I beg you to reconsider." Shifu says. "I understand your apperhention but Tai Lung's agruments have merit. If the Five are to leave China, then who will be here to defend it? Even the people will begin to worry without it's heroes and training soldiers to be just as effective would take too much time. Time that the General has mentioned we do not have. He may be our only chance of stopping this before it's too late."

"Yeah, that...and I think he's changed." Po replies as he steps forward. "We all weren't who we were in the past. Tai Lung's been doing good in the last few years. He's saved lives and kicked a lot of bad guy butt. If we give him the chance, I think he can be an awesome hero...er your nobleness."

"The Dragon Warrior and his Master vouch for him." The peacock says with entertained amusement. "This is quite interesting. Are you sure your familial duties aren't clouding your judgement, Master Shifu?"

"He...is my son." Shifu says hesitantly. "And I belive he's changed. But that also doesn't take away from the facts. Tai Lung is the most experienced to face this threat and the Five are needed to help prepare China's defenses."

"There are plenty of other martial arts masters, Master Shifu. Tai Lung can simply teach them."

"Being taught and implementing those teachings are two different things. Are you willing to trust someone who has never put what they heard into practice?" Shifu replies.

"Experience aside, how are we to trust this man? Your word is simply that. Your word. If we let this monster free in our country, what gaurentee is there that he won't simply use this as an excuse to go into hiding or escape? As you have said, the Five are plenty enough to defend China. He would have nothing to lose by abandoning what he promised to do?"

"I would be willing to allow someone to come with me." You say. "If you must have someone to keep an eye on me."

"More of your attempts to evade your punishment? I won't hear any of it." Lan says looking away. The peacock however remains interested.

"Who would you suggest?" He asks. "A criminal asking to have a jailer? How very droll."

>Who do you suggest?
>Ask for Hien to accompany you. If anyone could be trusted it would be him.
>Lie and say one of your friend's names. They probably wouldn't know them and think they're some kind other martial artist.
>Ask for Po. The Dragon warrior is someone they would feel safe keeping an eye on you. If you must break your plan for a compromise, it might as well be for him.
>Shifu. Despite him being your father, he isn't technically one of the five.
>Suggest Tigress as Hien said. You're not sure if you could convince her,especially since she's not here at the moment.
>Write in.

>>5391244
I believe the plan was to have TL, or the strike force, go unannounced to the north so as to keep panic as small as possible while trying to prepare.

>>5391289
>Suggest Tigress as Hien said. You're not sure if you could convince her,especially since she's not here at the moment.
>>5391290
Yeah, that's the idea.
People would notice if the Five disappeared, but TL has been more or less under the radar for quite a while now.

>>5391386
Let me add
>She is the one with the next best experience fighting the Mongols, and one of China greatest martial artists. And, quite frankly, she distrusts and depises me. I can't think anyone else that could garantee that I keep to my word.
We probably are going to need a few more other than just us, tigress, ming and xin though.

>>5391289
>You could send request Master Tigress, the fourth greatest martial artist that the Jade palace has ever produced, and the only living member of china that could seriously pose a singular challenge against me without imediments or outside aid. She also, however, has no love for me as My father does, and has made this plain on every occasion we've had chance to meet.
>If asked by the royal court, I don't believe she would refuse, though she may curse you for the task.

Also, I didn't abbandon the quest, just got rangebanned. I'M BACK!

>>5391500
Welcome back anon.

>>5391500
More than accurate.

Add Po as a second suggestion afterward, but point out you'd want your strongest defender probably defending.

>>5391289
>Suggest Tigress as Hien said. You're not sure if you could convince her,especially since she's not here at the moment.

Phew sorry about being gone for so long guys. Thigns kind of got ahead of me. We're suggesting Tigress and then maybe po. writing.

"Master Tigress." You say simply. "She is currently on her own journey, seperate from the Five and if she were to not be seen by the public for while there would be no cause for alarm. Plus, I cannot think of anyone more uncompromising in their moral code and persuit of justice than her. I would reccomend the Dragon Warrior as a second but given how cordial he is with me you may worry that I might somehow convince him to join me, something that Tigress is too resolute for. Furthermore, I believe that China's greatest warrior should remain behind to protect the country."

"Bold claims, yet Master Tigress is nowhere to be found. Do you propose to go looking for her as well?"

"Master Tigress has been informed of out meeting. Though I suspect something more pressing has taken her attention." Hien speaks up. "As evidence to Tai Lung's previous claims. She trusts her companions with something as important as this so that she may continue to protect those in need. As a real hero and teammate is expected to behave. I trust that she will be arriving soon enough and should that occur after this meeting, The Five will apprise her of her new mission should you ask that she accompany Tai Lung." The nobles look among each other but seem somewhat unconvinced. "If anyone can stop the oncoming invasion of the Mongols, it would be the two best martial artists of their generations that our country has to offer."

"Should we even consider such a...notion. Why even call us here?" Xiao begins slowly as he steeples his fingers. "I must ask the reason for our presence here. Lord Hien, such news could have been delivered to the Empress on your own accord yet you were quite insistant on us being here."

"You provide my sister with invaluable advice." Hien replies. "Sure a discussion regarding the future of our nation would warrant the perspective of as many people as possible. Especially those who are so intrinsically linked with every aspect of our nation. It would be unwise for any of us to make a decision as large as this on their own and my family has always heard the voices of our people when making a decision. There is no shame in asking for council even from the ruler of the land." The nobles purse their lips at that.

"My lord, sometimes your jests go to far. I find it a bit tasteless that you undermine your sister's capabilities as a ruler by playing charades. Such games that only the brother of the Empress can play." Li says somewhat irritated.

"The young lord wishes to spare us our feelings." The peacock counters soothingly. "Though you might not see it, he wishes to let us know that he values our views on the matter and the role of advisors we provide to his sister. Running a nation is no small task. However, there is an ulterior motive you've collected us. One you wish were not so, is it not my lord?"

Hien offers a small smile and nods. "I am not surprised that the head of the great Wàn family would be able to see through my humble negotiations given that I am a novice compared to you." He says.

"Flatterer. Though I am honored to receive such praise." The peacock says.

"There is a reason I have called you here, of course and that is that our nation may be going to war. Though my sister can raise an army at a command and send men to a foreign nation to fight, she is no tyrant. I've come to ask on her behalf to you all to please lend your houses' support to this endevor. To raise an army, to arm it, to feed it. To provide shelter and food for those who will be with out homes should the flames of conquest reach our borders. To shelter those who will loose so much more. I'm asking you to please open yourselves and provide to the nation that has provided for you all all these years." Another series of murmurs goes through the entire room. Looks of confusion and uncertainy upon the faces of all the nobles at the table.

"My lord...you must understand that we all love our country as any other man who lives here. Only surpassed by the Empress herself, we are all doing everything we can to give back to our nation we love. Not only that but these stories you've told us of the dead raising from the ground, of secret bands of raiders and armies of nations that we've never heard of before...it is all quite hard to take in. Please rest assured that we will do everything we can but we simply cannot work miracles. We appreciate that you turn to us, as you have said there is no shame in asking for help, but what you ask for is simply too great." This time, the uncertain talks come from behind you. The Five, unsure of what to do or say, simply look at your father for guidance and he begins to walk forward with the look in his eyes that show he is not going to mince words. You hold out your arm and shake your head before stepping forward yourself.

>Which head of the family do you wish to address first?
>Write in.

>>5394916
>Hien’s Brother, actually. None here are more familiar with what the logistics of war involve. Nobody else knows the full extent of what it takes to weather a war and come out the victor. And he is bound to know just what the costs of losing even minor conflicts and territories would add up to. If you can get him talking, you may well be able to convince the rest of the necessity of going above and beyond - especially due to the weight his word carries here.
For real, anyone who questions the veracity of the general’s logistical knowledge would be committing political suicide given how he’s both a general and a royal, and this is in front of the empress who is both his sister and the one who chose him above all others to lead their armies.

>>5394967
>Support
That's devious

>>5394967
Support, we already gave testimony of the enemies tactics, numbers and territory, even mentioned Sun Tzu and the like. It's time for the general to give his input.
I still want to mention the fact that a chinese family is leading them eventually, might push the Xiao or Li to want supporting punish those that are escaping an direct imperial order.

"You've heard all that's been discussed General. What do you think should be done?" You ask. "If anyone would be the best to discuss military tactics, it would be you. Even me, who has the most experience fighting these people, pales in comparision to running an entire army."

The General remains as stonefaced and quiet as ever. Although you very much doubt it, you're still unsure if the man was caught off guard or uncertain of how to answer. "Tai Lung speaks the truth." The Empress says breaking the silence and taking control of the conversation. "What is your recommendation Da Fai?" She asks. You feel the tension in the room shift as she speaks and you could not help but feel like a child who was hearing a friend's parent refer to them by their full name. There was something about the Empress's tone which was a mixture of authority and humility that seemed to strip away one's ego away from them, rendering them feeling exposed and timid. Evidentally, even the great general was no immune to their sister's authority as he finally speaks up.

"Your story only bears merit because of my younger brother and you only live because of him as well. Hien has no reason to create such stories despite his new found disregard for the rules. Should we have met in any other circumstances here in this hall, I would gladly trade my life to take yours if only to keep the Empress safe." He says staring your straight in the eyes. "You've proven to be a threat to this nation and that will never change. A simple word from a few well respected warriors and my younger brother will not absolve you of your crimes nor are they a guarentee you won't simply decide on day that you're far more fonder of turning your attention to those who can't defend themselves. However, you are a threat we can wield against our enemies. Be it a desire to protect our nation or simply another excuse to go on another slaughter I care not but it would be foolish to turn you away while your appetite for violence can be turned against those who threaten our lands."

"General! You cannot be implying that you'll letting this monster go!" The rabbit screams.

"I agree. We cannot be undermining our own laws by encouraging this kind of person to continue doing what he wants." Xiao say standing up. "General, even if we are to believe his tales he still must be made to answer for his escape. China can protect itself without needing to hire criminals. It is not only dangerous but dishonorable. What of those who lost their lives? Would sully their memory by leaving their killer unpunished?"

"He must be put to death!" Lan shouts.

"Our enemies care little for our honor Xiao! Or would you prefer to recite our nation's laws to those of the Sacred Library?" Da Fai barks. "If you wish to recite scripture you would do better to memorize the writings of the very general the man before you quotes. 'There are five dangerous faults which may affect a general' one being 'a delicacy of honor which is sensitive to shame'. If you are so worried about upholding our laws then perhaps we should simple hand over our nation lest we break some ourselves. My anscestors will understand that I will do what must be done to protect my country. Nothing more and nothing less." The General turns to face you. "You say you will go north and are willing to take one of the Five as a means of supervision but I ask you this? What good is a warrior that will not kill? The Five do not take lives and I will not risk my country on heroic pacisfism. What say you? Will you kill for your country? Take the lives of those who oppose you so that your Empress and her nation prosper?" The room goes suddenly goes silent and your feel a chill run your spine as you realize that the stares behind you weigh heavier on you than those of the nobles. Even more so than the Empress's, who was now watching you with her full attention.

>What do you say?
>No. You swore you'd never take another life. Never again. That was the man you were before, not the one you will become again. It may be impossible but you've been told often enough that you are capable doing what the common man cannot because of your supreme talent. It's time to show everyone that is not always a bad thing.
>Say that your methods are your own but you will get the job done. Mongolia will no longer threaten your home. Of that you can be certain. If you can trust everyone else to keep China safe then they can trust you to do the same.
>Say that you'll stop a war from happening. No matter the cost. Even if it means becoming the monster everyone sees you at. Even if it means never coming home again.
>Lie. Say that you're no stranger to taking a life and you're willing to do it again for the safety of your country. Sometimes, you can never escape your past. No matter how hard you try.
>Write in.

>>5397233
>My hands have already been stained in blood, and though I would do everything in my power to avoid such a thing ever happening again...in the end, if nothing else can be done to stop the war, then I will do what must be done. But only against their forces - never against the innocent. I will never, ever bare my fangs at the innocent again, no matter what is at stake, no matter where they're from. Only against those who are prepared to take lives themselves, and only if I lack the power to stop them without resorting to killing.

>>5397233
>>Say that you'll stop the war. No matter the cost. Even if it means becoming the monster everyone sees you at. Even if it means never coming home again.
Some people must take the responsibility of bloodying their hands so that others don't have to. We offered to go, and if we can't even promise to deliver,there's no point in going.

>>5397233
>The war will be prevented. As I teach my family, the swallowing tides of the violent and the vile will break across our fists. If compassion is needed to end this it will be freely given, if terror of a demon is required then I shall adopt the mantle wholeheartedly.
>The Mongolians will be disabled and neutralized, just as the one's before have been. And that should be all you need to hear, General Da Fai.

We're not killers. Not anymore and never again. But by the same token, we rip arms our of sockets, cut tendons, break bones and tear muscles. The people who we go seriously on probably never recover with china's medical experitse, an expertise that is probably superior to the mongolian sort.

So while I am firmly against killing as to keep our vow, the difference between us killing and us not, is that the victims don't get to leave their pain behind.

>>5397321
As a side note, I think we should [if we follow my vote's lead] make him clear and exact on the distinction between refusing to kill and pacifism.

I'm just hoping that our conviction is enough to give him pause.

>>5397321
>Support
We are the wall that evils breaks itself.
Emphasis on the break part.
But also, I think this is the time to mention what I have been shilling for
>>5397233
>I'll drag the leaders back to China, kicking and screaming if I have to. I pleaded for mercy for the raiders before, but now I know more about them. This isn't some centuries old understandable grudge, this is the work of a malicious group. One that needs to be judged by China and have all of it's people see. Because the Kexin were once chinese nobility, and they already had a second chance by the mercy of the Emperor, exile instead of execution. And they used it to plot the destruction and defiliment of the empire, a generations long plan.

>>5397370
Aye, Now's the time to mention the malicious group behind them.

>>5397233
>a crippled warrior fights just as much as dead one but requires someone to both feed and take care of them.

>>5397451
You know, somehow I feel like Dad and the five aren't going to be very impressed by our pragmatic attitude to refusal to kill. So maybe lets not sound too enthused as we rattle off these answers.

Still, Sifu is the only person who's opinion we care about in this room.

>>5397490
I he needs proof of our effectiveness of our style of "pacifism", we can always say to ask the raiders about the fate of the twin boar officers, or the triads in the port city that I always forget the name of. Shenlong taught us the Dragon Style. China's founder was it's creator. It toppled an empire that stole chi to power themselves. It is a more than proven method.

>>5397499
It's incredibly effective.
I simply caution us about tone, because "I'll mangle them so badly they will never face china again" or "If I ruin someone's ability to live a normal life, they will not be able to fight or take care of themselves and weaken our foe" can do us a lot of damage with out loved one's if we utter it stone cold or excitedly.

Finally we reveal who we belive to be the real culprit behind all this. Brown bun. Tried to steal our bun and then assaulted us. Was a bad egg since the start.

"No. I'll drag the ones behind this back to China, kicking and screaming if I have to but I won't take a life. As I've taught my family, we are the bulwark which the tides of evil break themselves against. If someone wishes do harm to another then we will be the shield that will stand between them, only raising our fists to meet our adversary in self defense or in the defense of another. However, if compassion is needed to end this conflict then it will be given freely. Even one such as me was given a second chance and faith in doing good and I will extend the same to anyone else. Everyone deserves a chance to redeem themselves and the faith to support that desire, be it from a murderer such as myself or from a simple old goat trying to write a story. Our enemy has done us great wrongs, but in that we can see they have great power and with that power comes the possibility to do great good. If they so desire I will bring them here to face the justice of the courts and to plead their case so as to earn a second chance." You say.

The General crosses his arms and looks at you with scrutiny. "Then I have no use for you." He says. "I need soldiers who will be able to do what must be done to keep our country safe. Not heroes who will hold to ideals that will put the mission in jeopardy. Regardless if your attempts to reform are geniune or some passing fancy I cannot have you faltering during critical decisions. Especially if there is no one to keep you in line." The large lynx turns to face his sister. "Your Highness, I recommend we take Tai Lung's and Hien's suggestions into account. If war is on the horizon, our defenses will need to be fortified and restructured. Work on the wall should be commenced immediately if need be. Tai Lung should be escorted back to a secure prison once more and the Five be put on training a group to scout the north. It will have to be a risk we must take as I cannot place my faith that he will accomplish what he claims."

"Brother, you can't-"

"Enough Hien! We have listened to what you and the criminal had to say. You have done well to find this information out but you give your faith away too freely."

"Do you not think the northerners are worthy of a second chance general? Should they not be allowed try and make amends for what they've done. Even the innocent?" You ask.

"We are past the point of negotiating." The General says. "Not only have these people made an attempt on the life of a member of the royal family, and disregarding any of our laws, they have comitted crimes against nature itself if you are to be believed. Crimes anyone would see as horrific, no matter the reason. They are clearly beyond reason and we will stop them not matter the cost. You are right that there will be innocents that will be caught up in the flames of this conflict both Chinese and Mongolian but for their sakes we can only hope to stop this as soon as possible. Before these people decide to turn against their own as well. I can only hope that we have enough time."

"Tai Lung can help." Hien insists. "It would be unwise to turn his talent away. He truly wishes to help and prove his change."

"He has done enough. If he truly wishes to repent then he will submit quietly. Perhaps if such a need be, he may be allowed to assist in some way but his time of wandering freely have long since passed. I cannot have him be a liability while I am trying to protect my country and my family." The General states firmly. "If the Great Dragons grant us the mercy of surviving this conflict, then perhaps we may revist his sentence. He has protected you and delivered information that might save thousands of lives. Of that we cannot ignore. For not however, we have other things to focus on."

"Your forefathers believed in mercy." You continue. "It was the Emperor who gave leniency to the Kexin nobility and banished them from the lands when they invaded Mongolia even after peace was made rather than executing them all for treason. Do you not think they should be made stand trial before their own country men once more? It is them who are orchastrating the attacks. After all these years and many generations, their plotting is coming to fruition. I can bring them here. If do not believe in mercy then surely you believe in justice and no soldier could ever be trained well enough to bring them back alive." The court room goes quiet as everyone stares at you in shock and disbelief.

"How do you know of this tale? That information has be out of public record for generations from the sheer dishonor and shame it brings out nation." The judge asks. "Who told you of this information?! Where did you learn this?! Speak!"

>What do you say?
>Say that your sources are anonymous. Only that they too have the nation's interest at heart.
>Tell the court about Madam Web. She probably won't be please about it though.
>Lie and say you read it from one of the scrolls that were stolen. You were curious about what could be in them and spent a night skimming through them.
>Write in.

>>5399552
>You just told me, you and these nobles already knew this history, these nobles in the court do not care about honor (hiding dishonor should be a even bigger dishonor) just to save face shamelessly, so false honor above else, crimes covered when convenient, atleast i am honest about the wrongs i have done in my life i cannot atone, i cannot do good with the training i grinded my life away for, sitting in a cell like i once already did doing nothing.

adlibbing stuff pick out parts of this how ever you feel

>>5399552
>Did you already forget what I said previously, or were you so angry about me walking free what you did not pay attention? Our enemies have access to the greatest secrets of China, they are not as hidden as you think they are.
>I was staying in the Sacred Library as a guest of honor of the Exarch Sangpo, as a fellow blessed of Shenlong. My companions researched our enemies when they appeared, and one of them left me a note to an information broker that could be able to connect the dots. I will not give their identity, for I made an oath to be able to be given the information, but know they have China's wellbeing in their heart.

>>5399638
Actually, let's not be as confrontational.
>As I mentioned previously, our enemies have access to the greatest secrets of China, they are not as hidden as you think they are. Removing things of the public records do not remove them from existence, and even if all records where destroyed, the information would still survive.
>I was staying in the Sacred Library as a guest of honor of the Exarch Sangpo, as a fellow blessed of Shenlong. Wehn the army appeared to siege the city, my companions started work on the defense, parley, and research. One of them left me a note to meet an information broker after we were separated, one that would be able to connect the dots.
>I'm afraid I can not give their identity, for I promised to keep their secrecy to be able to hear what they said. Just know that they work for the well being of China, even if their methods are... questionable.

>>5399552
I will support. >>5399682

But I'm also going to take parts of the first vote and throw in
>"I was a guest in the repository of all of china's history, what good will removing it from public view do against me?"

>>5399702
As an aside
>"Besides, you have all confirmed that you know the family I speak of. Perhaps you should focus more on my point, than my knowledge, I would have you put the Kexin on trial rather than be shocked by every ancient secret I reveal to you."

>>5399515
I miss the little guy.
I hope he is with Ming's group and have actually become a leader or fighter to be proud of.

>>5399552
>>Say that your sources are anonymous. Only that they too have the nation's interest at heart.
>dismiss source as irrelevant while subtly implicating the sacred library

>>5399764
Dude's gonna be covered in scars and missing half an ear and be swoll af next time we see him.

Sorry about that lads. Had a family emergency pop up. Nothing I can do about it now but wait so I'll get to writing to keep my mind busy.

"As I've mentioned before, I lived in the Sacred Library. A place where all of our countries knowledge is kept. From there, I learned of...an information broker of sorts. One who was well aware of the history of our nation and though their methods are unorthodox, I can assure you that they have the country's best interests at heart. My point however, is that even if you attempt to hide this information that there is always a way that it can be found. The raids on the libraries and the stolen scrolls are an example and I am another. It's no surprise then, that the Mongols found a third way to access this information via the Kexen family. More importantly, is not the fact that I know this information but what we should do with it. You've already confirmed that my information is accurate. There used to be a family of nobles that was exiled and they held secrets that they now sold to our enemies. So what we should be focusing on is finding the family and putting a stop to this. Something only I can do. If our enemies have spies or eyes on our nation, would it not be a far better idea to send me right now before the information reaches them or to attempt to train a squad and have the training be reported so that our foes can prepare. I may not be willing to take a life but I still know the effectiveness of a preemptive strike as I'm sure the general is as well." You say.

"Tai Lung is right brother." Hien speaks up. "He alone posses the ability to extract someone out of Mongolia with the target intact. Furthermore, I think that some of your worries are well founded. Tai Lung's...demenor and methods have a way of ingratiating him towards strangers. He can be quite popular once people get to know him and his experiences in life allow him to empathize with those he interacts with. Not only that but his friends also lend credence to his abilities. His new outlook might be enough to help convince some of the northern tribes to side with us. He is an outsider and is used to the role. Regardless of where he goes, he will know how to adapt."

"My Lord, you cannot keep excusing this man! He is wanted criminal!" The judge exclaims in exsasperation.

"One who has risked his life to save his countrymen." Hien responds. "Time and time again and one who is willing to concede to a handler if it means getting the chance to protect his country. Surely that means something."

"General, it seems like we are at an impasse." The peacock says, a slight smirk of amusement on their face. "Both sides are deadset in their ways and neither wish to budge. I would like to motion that our Empress render her decision. It is ultimately her decision that overrules us all." The General frowns but says nothing and instead turns to face his sister.

"Your Highness, your thoughts?" He asks. The Empress studies you for a moment and you resist the urge to shirk away under her quiet gaze. She remains motionless and you wonder if Hien's parents were as statuesque when they ruled. The tension seems to become muddled with antiticaption as everyone waits for their ruler to speak her mind, if she spoke at all.

"Hien, you place me in a difficult situation. My people are in danger, my country at the verge of possible war and you ask me to place our faith in one of the most violent criminals in recent history and let him go. It was father's mercy that allowed him to be imprissoned rather than executed. Would you have me let him go, regardless of what he did? Should I listen to my General who has served me loyally for many years or should I listen to my youngest brother who has the luxury place his faith blindly in others?" She asks rhetorically before turning to you once more. "Much like your story, it seems the answer is not simply black and white. It is muddled with shades of grey and complications that life is often full of." The Empress closes her eyes for a moment. "So I ask you, Tai Lung, what do you want?"

You open your mouth to speak but close it immediately. It was clear that the Empress was not asking a simple question of what you wanted to happen here. She wanted something more indepth. Perhaps to learn more of you and see what kind of man you were. The question was outside of your quests or stopping this war...what did you want?

>What do you say? What can you say for the Empress to see what kind of man you are now?
>Write in.

>>5404900
>I want, my empress, to serve and protect my family. I want my little sister to grow and blossom into a woman who can outgrow the cruel conditions of her birthplace and shine like the diamond she is. I want my greatest student and china's most skilled doctor to master her crafts and dazzle the world, going where she wishes and curing every ailment her mind comes across. I want my Beloved to let go of his past burdens and stop being crushed under the weight of so many screaming ghosts, to be the glorious hero I know he can be.
>I want my Father to see the good that he's done, with the five and his own efforts, and I want my own contributions to match or even exceed their own. I know he loves me, but this is my way to repay that love.
>I wish much the same of my friends; Hien, An Bo, Guang, Bao, even Shenlong. That each prospers and their burdens are lifted or abolished entirely, that they can grow and age unhindered.

>You can choose to believe that I am lying, or that I am wearing some sort of mask over my true feelings so that you will excuse my previous rampages and murders. Nothing I can say will dislodge some of you from the notion or the suspicion, so I can only say that while I have deeply considered my past actions, nothing will absolve me of them. No saving China, not Protecting Hien, not coming here or preventing a lunatic from poisoning a city. Nothing will change a single thing about what I've done, and there will be a reckoning for it by higher powers than this courts. But until that time, I want to help.

>That, is what I want, Your majesty.

>>5404900
>That is a heavy question your majesty, and I have to admit I have changed many times my desires since I broke out of my prison, discovered the secret of the dragon scrolls and fled from the Valley of Peace. Back then I wanted to create my own Jade Palace, make my own Five so the world see me as a hero instead of a villain, no doubt a twist of the same envy and pride that led me to fall to begin with. But that all changed quickly, because a man once asked me the same thing, and was the one that put me in the path I am today. His name was Luo, the famous writer and hero, and one that I now consider a mentor and friend. He guided me to the twin of the sacred pool, so I could reflect on myself.
>I no longer need the pools, for I have achieved Inner Peace, met dragons, and died and come back. But I still seek it, for my friends and the journey itself. The good deeds I do under a false name,
>So what I want is to do good, no matter how big or small. Not to repay for my crimes, because they can't be undone, but to make a better future. To help others follow a good path, to achieve the greatness in then and to try and save those that have fallen or are about to so they will not repeat my mistakes. And for those that refuse to listen, to be the wall that stop their assault on the innocent.
>This is why I saw the Sacred Library as my second home. Not because they did not judge me for what I did, but because I could help others beyond solving a crisis. I taught the common people kung fu, with a focus on the philosophy and honor I once ignored. I studied Chi and the spirits, helping expand the library. And above all, I gave the chance to my companions and dear friends, who I met on the road, to follow their peaceful dreams, one as a cook and sage, another as doctor and sorceress and the last as writer and storyteller.

>>5405024
Forgot to finish one sentence
>The good deeds I do under a false name, not only because I wish to avoid the stigma of my past, but because I care not be a celebrated hero anymore. A good deed is it's own reward.

>>5404900
What other people have said is more than enough.

But also the safety of the people of the library, who we aren't able to protect

>>5405660
>>5405026
>>5405024
>>5404985
Good speeches all around. I'll get to writing in the morning. Basically, we want to offer our friends and family the best. The life they deserve, not the one they got. All the while just doing good because you can not because it brings fame or prestige.

Got food in me and i'm ready to go. Writing time.

>>5406011
Hype.

You think about it for a while. Long enough that an air of nervousness starts to settle in. Why was it so much harder for you to figure this out than it was to figure it out for other people? Perhaps it was because it meant facing your past head on. Though you had made peace with yourself and your actions you still couldn't help but feel shame for your past. Perhaps it was healthier that way. Shame meant you abhored your actions, shame was a painful reminder to never slip up again. "That is a heavy question your majesty, and I have to admit that I have changed my mind many times since I have escaped my prison and began wandering the country. Had you asked in the following days I would have replied with wanting my own palace and to take revenge on all those how have wronged me with the power of the dragon scrolls. Had you asked only a year later, I would have told you that I seek the location of the Pools of Contemplation. Only a few months ago, I would have told you that learning something worth presenting to the Sacred Library and leaving it as my legacy would have been my goal. What I want, my Empress, is to serve and protect my family. I want my little sister to grow and blossom into a woman who can outgrow the cruel conditions of her birth and shine like the diamond that she is. I want my greatest student and China's greatest doctor to master her craft and dazzle the world, going where she wishes and curing any ailment she comes across. I want my beloved to let go of his past and being crushed by his guilt so he can become the glorious hero I know he can be. I want my father to see the good that he's done, with the Five and his own efforts. I wish the same for my friends, Hien, An Bo, Guang, Bao, even Shenlong. That each prospers and their burdens are lifted or abolished entirely, that they can grow and age unhindered. So what I want is to do good, no matter how big or small. Not to repay for my crimes, because they can't be undone, but to make a better future. To help others follow a good path, to achieve the greatness in then and to try and save those that have fallen or are about to so they will not repeat my mistakes. And for those that refuse to listen, to be the wall that stop their assault on the innocent. This is why I saw the Sacred Library as my second home. Not because they did not judge me for what I did, but because I could help others beyond solving a crisis. I taught the common people kung fu, with a focus on the philosophy and honor I once ignored. I studied Chi and the spirits, helping expand the library. And above all, I gave the chance to my companions and dear friends, who I met on the road, to follow their peaceful dreams, one as a cook and sage, another as doctor and sorceress and the last as writer and storyteller."

You look around at everyone in the court. Your friends, your family, those that fear and loathe you. Everyone had their reasons to either trust or hate you and though it was at times an nusance, you couldn't fault them for it. It was their choice to do so and even then it would not put you off from your goal and desire to do good. "You can choose to believe that I am lying, or that I am wearing some sort of mask over my true feelings so that you will excuse my previous rampages and murders. Nothing I can say will dislodge some of you from the notion or the suspicion, so I can only say that while I have deeply considered my past actions, nothing will absolve me of them. No saving China, not Protecting Hien, not coming here or preventing a lunatic from poisoning a city. Nothing will change a single thing about what I've done, and there will be a reckoning for it by higher powers than this courts. But until that time, I want to help." You finish with a steady finality. You would not be detered but you hope that the Empress was as sympathetic as her younger brother.

The Empress ponders what you say and closes her eyes to think. Everyone in the room waits with bated breath for her response and judging from the quiet behind you, your father had begun holding his breath. "It is obvious that you have put in a lot of thought to your response, far more than I suspect most would expect of you. I have heard of your crimes even as a child. The news of your crimes could not be hidden even from the children and though I was not allowed to leave the palace walls, I am certain that even the citizenship of the capital lived in fear of you targeting the captial next." She says quietly. "You are right that there is no going back after that. Such crimes cannot be absolved by simple apologies and goodwill. There are children that grew up without their families and families that lost their children. No one was spared your wrath those following days. I have every right to demand your execution here and now. However, I have also heard of your other more recent deeds. Of your salvation of a city, of your protection of the entire north of china where help would come far too late and from what my younger brother has said, your salvation of entire population from a very real damnation. I have but one more question for you. Master Tigress, do you trust her?"

You hide your confusion and nod quietly. "I do. She has the potential to be everything I should have been and more. Though we may have our differences, I trust her with my life and to do the right thing should I be unable to."

"I see..." The Empress turns to the General. "I have made my choice. General, prepare your troops and behind a survey of our walls. If we are to be invaded I want our country to be prepared. Master Shifu will instruct you on these invader's methods and you will provide him with whatever he and the Five need to protect our nation. Master Shifu, you and the Five will locate Tigress. I have need of her immediately. Am I clear?"

"Yes your majesty." Shifu replies quietly.

"Tai Lung, your crimes are something I cannot forgive. In light of your recent services to your country, I do not think imprisonment nor execution is an appropriate punishment. I choose to follow in my family's footsteps and grant mercy on you. You will head north with Master Tigress and apprehend those who are behind these attacks. Kexin or not, they must be made to answer for their crimes against us and their own people. Once apprehended, you will escort her back to our nation's border and no further."

"Your Highness?!" Shifu calls out.

"Tai Lung, I will grant you permission to venture into the north as you have requested and upon the completion of your request, I hereby banish you from China. You are no longer one of our countrymen and no longer allowed to live among us. You are a stranger in these lands but I am not so cruel as to deny you your goodbyes. Once Tigress arrives to serve as your custodian, I grant you one year to settle your affairs before you must leave to Mongolia. After said time, if you remain within our borders, your life is forfiet. You will be an invader in these lands and I will not extend my celemency a second time. I believe that you wish to do good, Tai Lung. However, I cannot overlook your attempts to evade your punishment as set upon by our laws. Given what you have done, I grant you a second chance at life but I cannot allow you to do so here. Not after such disregard to our nation's rules. This is my decision."

"My Empress, you cannot-" Both Shifu and Lan shout.

"Sister, we accept your ruling." Hien interjects, not at all upset at the decision. "And I thank you for granting Tai Lung a second chance. He will prove to you that you were correct in your decision. If you allow, may I request a momentary break so that Shifu and his son process your judgement?" The Empress nods.

"Yes. That would be for the best. I think Master Shifu has more than earned that." She conceedes. Hien genuflects and ushers you and the Five out of the doors just as the nobles burst out into a frenzy of protests and shouts.

---

"Banishment..." Shifu whispers in shock as he paces around the waiting room. A broken cup lay scattered on the table, several shards bloody from being gripped too hard. "No...no this cannot be. I just got you back..."

"Father..." You begin.

"This is the better than we could have asked for." Hien say thinking and drinking cold tea. "My sister is as sharp as ever it seems. You've earnd your freedom Tai Lung."

"You call this freedom?! Forgive me, my lord but I don't see this as any better than imprisoning my son!" Shifu shouts.

"It is freedom Master Shifu. By exiling Tai Lung, he has been effectively pardoned of all his crimes. He can venture north as he planned and...do you honestly think such a thing would stop your son?" Hien says with a smile. "He is the greatest fighter of our time and is family with the greatest assassins of China. Sneaking back in and going as he pleases is child's play to him. As it stands right now, it is no different than the way he already travels. In the end, all Tai Lung has done is gotten all he wanted with absolutely no cost. Exile is a mere formality, a farce to keep the nobles placated with the thought that justice has been served. My sister is smart enough to see that regardless of what she ordered, Tai Lung could do as he pleased. By doing this, she maintains control and has prevented us from having to fight our way through several dozen guards. Your son is in no different position than he was before and in a way is in a better position than before. So long as our country believes he is in Mongolia, he is free to travel through China. A simple disguise or a different name and he no longer has to worry about reprecussions not that he could be seen if he wanted to."

Shifu remains silent for a moment before looking at you sadly, crushed. "I'm sorry. " He says. "I never wanted this. If I knew...I'd have told you to stay away."

>What do you say?
>Write in.

>>5406203
>You act like this makes anything different father, I was a wanted criminal before afterall. If I want to come to China, either to visit you and to solve unfinished business, I could and nothing would stop me. I have my own brand of justice, and I have no fear for any divine retribution.
>Who knows? Perhaps I will settle down in Mongolia later, I was looking foward to something like that in the future. And it could help give hope to the lost snow leopards and maintain good realtions with any friendly tribes, so this never happens again.
>Now rest easy father, you need to prepare to welcome Tigress and convince her to be my handler, and I have to plan how to reunite with my companions before journeying north.
Tai Lung Khan, friend of Tengri and elightened one.

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>>5406217
You know what? It has been a while since I made a meme for the quest and I'm in a good mood tonight.
Have our boy throat singing atop a mongolian mountain.

>>5406225
Who knew our boy had musical talent. I guess it's nature's way of balancing out the pasta spilling and war crimes against edible food. I approve.

>>5406203
> worst comes to worst I can just keep doing what I was already doing.

>a decree is only as useful as it is enforceable and no one save yourself or Poe could stop me from going where I please and I don't plan on leaving china at least until I find the pool.

>>5406279
Lets not say we plan to ignore the empress' direct decree, while in the palace, while the court is still arguing about said decree.

>>5406217
Support this whole heartedly though. "I could" is not equitable to "I will" in legalise.

not smart decision on her part
>go stop the mongolians
>then go stay in mongolia

>I choose to follow in my family's footsteps and grant mercy on you. You will head north
>family's decision of mercy is presumably resulting in this war
oh no no no

>>5406203
>Nothing changed.

>>5406279
>inb4 the pool is not in china

>>5408421
This feels like what the Xiao and Lan are trying to say back in the court room.
My headcanon is now is that they are so pissed they aren't even using fancy words anymore, just exactly like you wrote.
Because the idea pleases me. Like TL said once, let them cope and seethe.

>>5406580
true also what if we learn some chi shape shifting and literally just change our fur pattern into a tiger or dye our fur and we can just walk in again

"Hien is right father. Before I was a wanted criminal and now I am merely an exile. I am allowed to live as I see fit so long as I never step foot in these lands again. If I want to return, either to visit you or for other buisness, I could do so and no one could stop me. The Empress recognizes this as well yet she herself has said she believes me that I want to do good and that brings me to my next point. This war, these last few weeks, they taught me something. Even in the past few months, my only thoughts were of China but now I realize that there are other lands and peoples that could use someone who will stand up for what is right. I have my own brand of justice and perhaps it maybe better suited for a land that is not as civilized as China. Even if not...I've learned that I can do good anywhere. It doesn't matter if I was born there or not. Renshu and Xin were not born here and yet they fight to protect people here as if they were their own people. I can do the same elsewhere. Failing that, I can serve as an envoy. As someone who has lived as an outcast I can understand how the northern tribes might feel. I can help keep good relations with China and any friendly tribes even after the war is prevented or ends. Maybe I might be able to settle down and create a place for snow leopard to come and find themselves. Maybe I can learn of the other part of me I never knew. So please rest easy father. My tale isn't done yet." You pull your father into a hug and hold him tightly. "You and the Five will be more than enough to protect China." Shifu does his best to wrap his small thin arms.

"You're ok with this?" Po asks. "They're telling you to leave your home and never come back."

"I lost my home years ago panda. I lived in prison for 20 years. My home is where my family is and as long as they are with me, I'd travel to the ends of the earth without worry. I'm am glad that I can at least still travel with them rather than have them punished for being with me." You say as you set your father down. "As I've said before, perhaps in the future I may find a place to once again call home. It'd be a shame that there won't be any waterfalls to live nearby in Mongolia or perhaps I'll simply find a location just out of reach for that."

The room remains morose as one half of the group comisserates the Empress's ruling while the other remains in awkwards silence, unsure of how to approach a once enemy with their recent exile. You opt to simply sit in silence as well to await the end of your allowed period of mourning when the doors open once more. Rather than seeing a guard or messenger, you are greeted with the sight of a large female tiger, her clothes torn and ruined with several bandages used to preseve some sense of modesty as well as keep several wounds closed judging by the scarlet stains on them. "I apologies for my late arrival Master. There were some...complications I had to take care of before I could join you all." Tigress says as she looks around the room before giving you a slight scowl. The room remains silent for a brief moment before the Five explode with excitement and rush over to greet their old friend, save for Po who seems to have had all the air squeezed out judging by the strange squeak they made as their face grew just as red as the stains.

>What do you do?
>Go wait outside. Give the others sometime to catch up. No one would probably mind if you were in the hall way.
>Ask Tigress why she is late. She missed a lot of important things in the meeting.
>Ask Hien to go and see if you should return to the courtroom. It's been a while since you all stepped out.
>Write in.

>>5410583
>Ask Hien to go and see if you should return to the courtroom. It's been a while since you all stepped out.

>>5410583
>Go outside.
Lets not ruin their reunion.
We've had our greeting, lets let them have theirs.

Maybe mess with Po a bit and ask why he's staring
But seriously, it's her time. We can ask her later.

>>5410583
>>Go wait outside. Give the others sometime to catch up. No one would probably mind if you were in the hall way.

>>5410583
>Ask Hien to go and see if you should return to the courtroom. It's been a while since you all stepped out.

We got a tie it seems.

>>5412140
Both are different ways to give some space for their reunion.
Both I'll change my vote to
>Ask Hien if you can wait in another place. You want to give them some space

>>5412144
Giving everyone some room to reunite. Writing.

You don't want to ruin a joyus reunion with your presence and given the fact that you'll more than likely be traveling with Tigress for the foreseeable future, it's best to not upset her during this time. You motion to Hien to exit the room using the handsigns you and your friends used for the covert portions of fighting the Mongolian raiders. He nods and follows you discreetly as the two of you silently exit the room. You close the door behind you and Hien speaks up. "Seems like Tigress ran into some trouble since the last time we met. I hate to see who was on the receiving end of that fight." You reply with a noncomittal shrug. "Worried about traveling with her?" He guesses.

"Not really. We both have a task to complete and I sense her self discipline has grown enough for her to put aside her anger to complete it and save China." You say. "Thought thinking about it, I worry more about Xin. They're too free spirited to get along well with someone who is by the books like Tigress. Something I don't think will ever change. Their whole life has been lived disregarding the rules. It's only now that they choose to put that defiance towards good and unlike their brother, Xin Lan is more willing to speak their mind about things, especially when it comes in regards to defending me. They're learning to be their own person and they'll exercise that new found sense of self to it's limit. The trip...it'll be loud I suspect. Hopefully Ming can help keep them reigned in."

"Xin Lan is willful but I'm certain they wouldn't do anything to jeporadize your mission, especially if you tell them. You might just be one of the few people who's authority they see a legitimate." Hien replies. "Growing pains aside, do you have a time table of when you'll be leaving?"

"As soon as this is done, I'll be finding everyone once more. Won't be staying here for long."

"Anything in particular you need? If you speed is your concern, I can reach out and see if I can find what you require. I doubt there will be much objection in helping you requisition equipment that you'll be using to save the country." Hien offers.

>What do you say?
>Ask Hien for basic travel equipment. You prefer travelling light. Makes it easier to get around.
>Ask Hien for cart with supplies. You've only ever traveled within China and knowing the country meant that you could risk traveling light even if it meant scavanging. In Mongolia you're not sure if you'll have that luxury. Slower but safer travel is preferable than risking being stranded without food or supplies.
>Say you're fine with equipment but perhaps he can use his connections to find you something rarer. (What do you want Hien to look for?)
>Write in.

>>5412430
>A cart with supplies

We can abandon our supplies as and when we need to. But until we do, I'd prefer to not get sidetracked by hunting for food.
Though truth be told, we have the bunnies and ming, I'm not at all concerned about not being able to find something to sustain us.

>>5412430
>Ask Hien for cart with supplies. You've only ever traveled within China and knowing the country meant that you could risk traveling light even if it meant scavanging. In Mongolia you're not sure if you'll have that luxury. Slower but safer travel is preferable than risking being stranded without food or supplies.
Fuck trying to forage in the Gobi desert, while being deep in enemy territory.

"We'll need food and supplies. Going into enemy territory it'd be too risky to try and forage for food let alone in a place that we've never been. We'll have to make due with visibilty but it's the price to pay to be prepared. There's also medicines, we'll probably need more than usual given how we are. Clothes, mostly for Xin. They like to dress up and perhaps we can use that to our advantage to disguise them for intel. The weather is also very erratice, from extreme heat to severe cold. It'd be best if we also have some things to deal with that. Tents to ward off the winds would work and could probably be used to provide shade." You say.

"I'll see about attempting to find a map of some kind as well." Hien says. "It'd be for the best that you have some idea of where to go or at least what to expect if you are going to succeed. Problem being, is that I'm not sure if any of our maps will be up to date. I haven't heard much about exploratory voyages growing up though I suppose that if I had, we might have been able to anticipate all of this."

"Anything would be usefull, even if it's just a map of the terrain. The more we know the better prepared we will be. Ming should be able to make sense of anything you can find. Speaking of which, anything you can spare in terms of being able to learn the language would be far better than any map. I highly doubt majority of the northerners will be able to speak Chinese and though our enemies seem to be able to and are able to teach it to their troops, I suspect they will refuse to do so in order to futher hinder us. If we can speak to them in their own language, we maybe able to pass off as regular travelers for just a bit longer."

"We have several books on the subject. I'll get you copies of that as well. Hopefully they aren't as outdated as the rest of our maps. Wouldn't do much good if you're outsted because you're speaking some archaic form of their tongue."

"Archaic or not, being able to understand them would be far better than not at all. If you have anything, anything at all, about the lands to the north we'll need them as well."

"That...I don't think we have. I'll do my best to try and find something but I have no idea of such a place was even contemplated." Hien admits. "I'll dive as far back in the royal library as I can but I fear I won't find much. As always, it seems you're treading into places no one else has ever before."

You're about to say something, when you see one of the palace messangers approach rather cautiously. "The Empress is ready to see you once again, my lord." He says eyeing you nervously as he does his best to keep his knees from shaking. "P-please gather the others." He adds with a tremble as the two of you lock eyes.

"It seems we've run out of time. Best we let the others know."

---

You and the Five make your way back into the throne room where everyone awaits. The air was tense as it ever was and judging by the looks on several of the noble's faces they were none to pleased with the discussions during the intervening time. "Thank you for giving us some time to process your decision sister." Hien says stepping forward. "As we were talking, Tigress had managed to arrive. Seems like some prior duty had kept her, one involving protecting the innocent no doubt."

"I see. Master Tigress, have you been appraised of the great task placed upon you?" The Empress asks.

"I have, your Highness." Tigress replies. "I will not fail."

"That is good to hear. I wish you both well on your journey. The fate of China may very well be in your hands." The Empress turns to face you next. "You have brought much information to us though as I recall much of the discussion here was debates on whether or not to allow you to go. Was there anything else you wished to report?"

>What do you say?
>Write in.

>>5417100
>£In short order My Empress, The survivors of the great Library are with my student Chan Ming, and their recovery is a priority. Both for China and myself, given their knowledge and expertise. It won't bring back the knowledge base which we have lost but it's better to have tatters to repair than a true blank slate.

>The Mountain wherein the library was once siutated will require. . . lifetimes, to recover with the aid of the mystically inclined feeding it Chi slowly and carefully. Though such people are beyond rare, I implore your highness to begin work on a solution with imperial edict immediately as is bodily possible, since to let it languish will only permit the steady decline of the mountain to continue.

>And, in the interests of transparency, I am informing you that I shall be collecting my little sister from Quinhangdao in addition to Ming prior to my exodus. It wouldn't do for you to think I'd gone rogue when I am simply collecting my friends.

Am I forgetting anything?

>I believe that is all that I am able to report, though I will offer whatever clarification you feel you need. I must ask for further indulgence on two matters, I know the family name of that disgraced noble house but nothing else about them, can you furnish me with their species? And the other is a personal concern, but. . . how is the lord of Fire in this difficult time?"

I'm concerned, so I would like to ask.
Speaking of, How are you doing Luo? Still holding up?

>>5417100
>I have learned the locations of my companions from the information broker I mentioned previously, and I'll be using the year you have granted me to ask them to rejoin me. One of them is nearby, but the other is in northern china running from something while protecting the library's refugees. It might be wise to send a small force with supplies to help the citizens find a new shelter and defend them.
>The mountain is in a dire state, not only there is a city wide ritual raising the dead, but the very spirits of the land have been sacrificed. It will take a long and time and incredible effort to restore it.
>As a chosen of (fire dragon name I keep forgetting), your majesty might have already felt it, but I feel it needs to be shared. The dragons have been in great mourning, and eureka has been closed. The desecration that the Kexin have done is an act that has not happened since the ancient legends. China will need to defend itself not only from espionage and invasion, but spiritually as well.

>>5417357
It's rougher than I expected. Had to put a few things on hold because of the emergency and several other family members are helping. I live far enough away that I can't be there all the time but I'm not sure if that's good or bad. One hand, I can take some time to decompress but on the other while I'm away there's nothing I can do to help. Not like I can do much to begin with but just being there feels like I'm helping.

Sorry for the somber update, normally I try to find some kind of silver lining and leave things on a hopeful note but just can't do it this time. Quest helps keep my mind off of things. Just wish I could post more frequently. Thanks for asking though. I appreciate being able to vent a bit.

>>5417357
>>5417379
Taking these and writing.

"In short My Empress, the survivors of the Sacred Library are with my student Chan Ming and their recovery is a priority. Both for China and myself, given their knowledge and expertise. Saving them won't bring back all the knowledge that was lost but it's better to have it in tatters than losing everything completely. On that note, I will be spending the year you have granted me to gather my companions from there we will head to complete our mission. The mountain and the remains of the city...they are a whole other matter. The mountain is in a dire state, the ritual that spans the whole city not affects the living but the spirits as well. Such a thing will not go away on it's own and it is self sufficient. It will require the aid of those mystically inclined to find a way to fix it. Though such people are beyond rare, I implore your highness to begin work on a solution with imperial edict immediately as is bodily possible, since to let it languish will only permit the steady decline of the mountain to continue. I believe that is all that I am able to report, though I will offer whatever clarification you feel you need. I must ask for further indulgence on two matters, I know the family name of that disgraced noble house but nothing else about them, can you furnish me with their species? And the other is a personal concern, but. . . how is the lord of Fire in this difficult time? As a chosen of the Dragon of Fire, your majesty might have already felt it, but I feel it needs to be shared. The dragons have been in great mourning, and eureka has been closed. The desecration that the Kexin have done is an act that has not happened since the ancient legends. China will need to defend itself not only from espionage and invasion, but spiritually as well."

"According to our records, the Kexin were a house of Tigers." The Empress says. "As for the Dragon of Fire, many things now have fallen in place. Their rage is unquenchable and their desire for revenge unsatiable. It is no surprise, theirs was the domain of life. To do what was done at the library is a direct affront to them. A mockary of the gift they bestowed upon man."

"If you can, let him know that I will find those responsible as I have done so in the past." You say. "I am more than willing to speak with them to asauge their grief. It is rather worrying to be unable to speak with them and let them know things will be alright." The Empress merely nods.

"I bid you good luck then, Tai Lung. On your quest and your journey. If there is nothing more then I shall have the General see you and Tigress off. There is no time to waste and I have further things to discuss with The Five." She says.

"I can accompany them." Hien offers. "I suspect you have things you wish to speak with my brother as well. Best that we don't burden him trivial tasks."

"No. You will not." The Empress says sternly her eyes cold. "You are to remain here. You, your brother, and I will be having a talk once this is all over. Father has his own words he wishes to have with you as well." For the first time, Hien's glibness fades and he fidgets.

"There...there's no need to get father invovled." He says quietly.

"Evidentally, there is." The Empress counters. "Please, General. Escort Tigress and her charge out." The General salutes and moves towards you, casting a glance at Hien that could only indicate that he was going to be getting the scolding of a life time. The young man attempts to put on a brave face but the fear of their father was something you knew only too well. You and Tigress are led out to the main hall of the palace when you speak up.

"Would it be possible to go back to the Feng compound?" You ask. "I would like to get my things and prepare a bit before starting the journey."

"Very well. I shall have a squad of guards escort you back." He says and pauses for a moment before saying, "The Empress has placed her trust in you. Not only hers but that of the entire nation. Be assured that taking advantage of her generosity doesn't mean evasion from the law. It means the possible death of thousands of lives if not all of China."

"We will not fail." Tigress replies. "At least one of us knows the meaning of duty." The General does not reply and merely calls a handful of royal guards to lead you back to the Feng compound. As you walk away, you can't help but call out.

"Go easy on Hien. He thinks with his heart and really does want the best for his people. He simply does not follow in you or your sister's footsteps and there is nothing wrong with that. Help him find his own path. You're his family and the one group of people he does worry about disappointing for better or for worse." The General glaces at you, conflict flickering in his eyes but his face remaining as stoic as every. Though he does not speak nor make any indication that he acknowledges you, you know that he has things to think about.

---

You sit at the edge of your bed in the compound as you try to pass the time. Tigress at least gave you some measure of privacy by remaining outside at your door but still refused to let you close it. Though you didn't mind, it was rather awkward being near the woman who attempted to murder you a year ago who was now your jailer of sorts. To complicate matters, you weren't sure if Hien would be able to deliver what you asked for. At least, you weren't sure he would be able to do so in a timely fashion. You don't doubt that he could persuade the others to allow you to have some supplies, after all it would be suicide to send you off without any kind of preperation, but the longer you waited the farther and farther it seemed your family was getting.

>What do you do?
>Try and nap. You have a feeling you'll need to be at top form if you were going to go after Xin.
>Tell Tigress you're leaving to get Xin. The supplies can wait and the Empress gave you permission to settle your affairs. This was one of them. She wouldn't defy the Empress would she?
>Try and pass the time. You can always try to talk to Tigress. Maybe she'd have more than stern remarks to give you.
>Write in.

>>5418343
>Try and nap. You have a feeling you'll need to be at top form if you were going to go after Xin.

>>5418343
>>Try and nap. You have a feeling you'll need to be at top form if you were going to go after Xin.
I want to get Xin, but that would mean returning with them to get the supplies and that's just asking for the Lan to start up trouble.

>>5418343
>Take a nap

A few hours won't make any difference to us.
But we can bear down on Xin first and foremost, then run for Ming.

>>5419358
>>5418491
>>5418378
Can't sleep. Writing time. We're waiting.

There wasn't much to do but wait, something you've been doing a lot of and something that you wish you could stop doing. But without those supplies that Hien promised, you'd be woefully unprepared for travel not to mention any books on the Mongol langauge would be a great boon to you. With a sigh, you lay on your bed and attempt to pass the time with a nap. It's in those small moments before sleep overtakes you, where your mind's focus wavers, do you wonder. When did you become used to sleeping in a regular bed? Even before you went to prison, you and your father lived an ascetic lifestyle. Soft beds were not the norm for you and you often told yourself that you prefered a hard floor over a soft linens. Your hand abesent mindedly scratches at your chest, expecting to find the round head of a small rabbit only to find empty air. Soon, you assure yourself, soon you'll feel that familiar weight once more.

Your nap, as is custom, is interrupted by the sounds of talking outside your door. Grumbling over the fact that you couldn't get used to that, you sit up in bed and look out towards the open door. Tigress stood at the doorway, back to you and arguing with a small dog dressed in servants clothing. "But ma'am, I have something to deliver and it's for his eyes only." The small servant protests.

"And I've said, you will not deliver anything without me looking at it. On who's authority do you work under?" Tigress counters, arms crossed. You can quite easily imagine the glare she would currently have.

"I work for the Feng family. Who's land you currently reside it. I don't know who sent this letter, it was in our pile of deliveries and addressed to him. We don't check people's mail. It's not worth my job to be nosey." The servant explains. Judging by the tone of her voice, the two had been arguing in circles for a while. You approach the door and clear your throat.

"I'd like to see my letter then." You say as you extend your hand. The servant holds out their hand with the small letter in it only for Tigress to reach out and snatch it. Unfortunately for her, she did not have the years of training that comes with protecting one's plate of food from a hungry bunny and you easily manuver your hand around her and grab your mail. Tigress redirects her frustration towards you but you ignore it. Your training also helped you become immune to the upset pouts that come from denying a little sister's quarry and Tigress was no exception. Upon seeing her obstacle distracted by you, the servant leaves without so much as a polite wave or bow.

The letter itself was very bare bones with only 3 lines with the last one punctuated with a small spider. "It starts in 4 days. They have reached peak strength. Your in-law/wife may not live to see the 5th nor will bystanders." 4 days was plenty of time to make it to Quinhangdao...if you didn't have a cart to pull along with you. You might be able to carry it on your back. You've carried far more in prison in far more akward positions. Yes...you could make it but it all now fell on Hien to deliver the goods on time.

"What does the letter say?" Tigress demands.

>What do you say?
>Tell Tigress that the letter is of no concequence. What is more important is that you get your supplies and go as soon as possible. Ask her to go to the palace to see if the process can be sped up. Lives are on the line.
>Give a half truth and say that it is in regards to a small crisis that you heard of recently. Quinhangdao is going to be under siege by several gangs. The guards won't be able to hold back the tide. You only have 4 days to help.
>Hand Tigress the letter and tell her the truth. Xin is being foolish and has angered several powerful criminal groups. You're not sure if they're are suicidal or wish to go down in a blaze of glory but the army of thugs is a threat to them and the citizens of the city.
>Write in.

>>5419616
>Give a half truth and say that it is in regards to a small crisis that you heard of recently. Quinhangdao is going to be under siege by several gangs. The guards won't be able to hold back the tide. You only have 4 days to help.
>Xin is trying to take them all down at once. I don't know the extent of their plans, but throwing myself in the middle of problems and solving them is what I do best. And this time I have an actual hero with me, so let's go save the day.

>>5419616
>"It says, Tigress, that lives are in danger and in 4 days, Quinhangdao will be awash in the dead. So we are going. Can you ask Hien to speed the supplies up significantly? If he can't, we'll just have to come back for them."

Don't give her the letter, it's rather delicate.