|
Post by Sun Xiong on Aug 12, 2006 0:13:29 GMT -5
Sun Ce: Brian Liu Bei: Lyle ~Fate~*Ahh, fate. It was fate. None could deny it. Fate had taken control, piloting the lives of two conquerors, leading them to the barren mountainside which they were directed to. Many duels were taking place, as a tournament had struck up with heat, China’s greatest warriors rising to the occasion, putting their lives on the line to bring honor and glory to their names. Such men as Fa Zheng, Mortiss, Richard, Liu Bei, and Er Aorong had joined the competition against Sun Ce. He would have to put down two of these combatants before he was deemed worthy of the final battle. It would start with Liu Bei, conqueror of Yizhou and Jingzhou. If he came out the victor, he would either fight Er Aorong, or the Nanman King, Dousi Da Wang.*
*Sun Ce sat atop his fine white horse, which was yet to be named, and rode at the horse’s walking pace up the path of one of China’s largest areas. It was a winding road headed up; a flagpole could be seen in the distance, at the top. That was the starting point, and it was likely the battle would bring Liu and Sun down the rocky, winding path to ground level. It was not very dangerous, but to fall the entire length could cause some problems. The weather allowed neither advantage nor disadvantage, as it was a clear day with some breeze, as the sun fell and allowed night to fall into the horizon.*
*Sun Ce finally reached the top, dismounting his horse. He was donned in red and brown plate armor, most of it was covered in a tiger’s pelt worn almost as a cloak. It was more for decoration, but did allow some protection, but it was not very heavy. Ce’s helmet followed up his head rather high, a red plume falling behind it down his back, where a red cape followed down his back. In his right hand was the Conqueror’s spear, which was nothing more then a decorated spear sharpened to a fine point, making any clear strike likely to be the victim’s last. Attached to Bofu’s sash was the Sun Blade, which was a sword that could be used with one hand effectively, but with two even more effectively. The handle was six inches long, the blade 42” long. It was sturdy, sharp, good for offense or defense. Sun Ce was prepared, as his equipment showed.*
*It was now time for him to clear his mind. He dropped to his knees, hunching his back forward, closing his eyes. He thought to himself, allowing nothing outside of his mind to enter. He began concentrating on reaching a nirvana before one of the greatest duels of the tournament began, before Liu Bei arrived. It would be difficult for both of them, and it would likely rely on their mentality before it would rely on their strength. Liu Bei had proven himself, as had Sun Ce. A haze filled in Ce’s mind as he calmed it, thinking of nothing other than himself and his opponent.*
*With that, he rose to his feet, surveying the area. It was high, but the pressure did not amount to anything. In the distance, there were majestic mountains that filled the low sky, as clouds still manifested the air, opening in few places to reveal the first of the stars shown from the night. Sun Ce opened his eyes, taking his spear with a firm grip. He spoke in a calm, yet menacing tone, speaking to the sky above and the ground below.*“Under the stars and the clouds of the cold night sky… above the rock and dirt of the mountainside, Xuande of Shu shall match cold steel and iron will against Bofu of Wu. I pray to the gods that they favor me, but shall I fall this day, let all of China know that Liu Bei, victor, is the superior of the Little Conqueror.”*After his speech, he fell into a trance, his eyes closing as he took hold of his spear, pounding it against his pauldron every few seconds, sending a ‘clang’ flying through the land around him. The skies were clear, all was quiet between the pounding of spear on steel, but a storm approached along with Liu Bei. Though it was not in the form of rain, snow, or lightning, or any natural disaster, a storm flew by as Liu Bei approached Sun Ce, and it would not leave until one of them was claimed the victor.*
|
|
|
Post by Sun Xiong on Aug 12, 2006 0:14:58 GMT -5
The lush, uninhabited peak lived a peaceful life of freedom, peace and equality away from all else. In face, it stood by itself for what seemed miles, even if only but a few hundred meters away from its closest neighbor. The perfect place for a bout or two, or even one hundred, Xuande was prepared for it no matter what. He didn't care if he lost a leg, an arm, a hand, as long as he treated his opponent to a true battle, then he'd be fine and be able to finally encompass his body within the heavens.. His heart beat quickened, his feet upon the peak now as his morales brushed aside, a small group awaiting his clear eyes, a man upon the ground just in front of him. Life flashed before him, encompassing the armor around him. His life was his protection, his journeys, his defeats, his pains and his greatest moments. He'd go home today, for life, and for the life of these people. He'd go home today and order a campaign for this peak, so the people here upon this very desolate peak could receive supplies like the rest of his loyal followers. He didn't care if this place was in Jung Ye, or Ye, or Chang An itself. His mind was dead set with such an issue, emotions not present, yet the idea of being righteous, and the ideal of Justice residing upon his blades, and no one else's. He adjusted the sword upon his hip, his hands floating around the hilt as he slid off into the old, his earlier years of being a swordsmen in the rebellion.. His eyes were closed, his feet making small, feint steps toward his opponent, his voice came call, his own nirvana flowing freely.. "It is upon days like these, when I am so near the heavens, and yet so far from my home, that I truly thank the people that have served me, and the people that build my armies. For respect, equality and compassion brought me here, and I lead with such thoughts, the people following with the same ideals that you can find in anyone's heart. This thought, this process gets me through the day. It has brought me to this mountain, it had kept my horse moving until but these last few tiers and it keeps my mind as sharp as the points upon my blades, and yet as fluid as the sea... Enough muttering, we are here to fight. May the strongest think he is so, and may the most cunning win.."Liu Bei's eyes now gazed into the distant ones, both men looking on from their own niche, but twenty feet away from each other.. Yet, it seemed as though miles, just as in Chang Sha in Jian Ye.. both of them looking from their spires, their palaces, upon their golden thrones with their followers upon them. The souls of Shu, Wu, the west and the east rode upon grand stallions behind the commanders, their voices scrapping against the thin mountain air and their blades slicing the winds in half. All was calm, and the battle began.. Xuande drew his sword, throwing it slightly off to his left with the motion. It landed nearly strait in the ground, moving from side to side as it separated the two. His hilt now came off, being thrown to the side as well.. Now all that stood was a man in grand, dark green armor and with a rather large spear, seven feet in length, the blade adding nearly a foot. It looked more like a guan dao, yet was not as heavy as the famed weapon his brother wielded. He brought it up slowly, steadily with his right arm alone, displaying what little strength he seemed to have. Eventually it was held just above him, his left arm coming in as his right wrist twisted the blade in mid air, moving it under his arm and raising the blade further into the air. He now held it within both hands, his feet moving now as his body remained solid like stone. He faced somewhat away from his opponent, his right hand was above him holding the middle of his weapon while his left was at his waste holding the bottom. Both arms were slightly bent, cooped up near his body, cocked and loaded. His legs bent now, slowly yet surely lowering his height. They shuffled slightly, putting more weight upon his left foot, which was closer to his opponent. The blade of his weapon was just behind him, hiding, waiting to strike. "Come now, bring my reign to an end."
|
|
|
Post by Sun Xiong on Aug 12, 2006 0:15:37 GMT -5
*Sun Ce took two steps forward. As his leather-padded boots hit the surface of dust and sand, a cloud manifested around it. It personified as the grand Wu navy, the clouds rise as the great navy set sails. As the shivering wind picks up and the small clouds of dust so low to the ground begin to fly away, this is as the Wu navy catching the wind, speeding forward to their enemy. Sun Ce had defended his lands many times using a navy, but it was not the military capabilities of the war boats that were so shockingly beautiful. It was the view of such ships on the sea, with the dim, low hanging moon offering the reflecting moonlight over a surface of the water, as is spread through ripples in the water. If Sun Ce died here, that was the only thing he’d regret about his life: that he did not die by the waters of Jiang Dong, by the Chang Jiang.*
*As Liu Bei found his way not long after Sun Ce had gained a flawless mentality, he stood face-to-face against Ce, not twenty feet away, on his own cropping of land. Was it a coincidence that Liu Bei stood along where the sun sets, and Sun Ce stood where the sun rises? No. Liu Bei stood on the western side, as Sun Ce stood on the eastern side. It was relatable to the lords and their land. Liu Bei in Yizhou in the west, Sun Ce in Jiang Dong in the east. The lords were bound to their lands, their kingdoms, and their people. So much so, in fact, they were drawn to it without realizing it. Such glory was within these two, and such respect held for both of them. Sun Ce, plad in armor covered by tiger skin, Liu Bei in royal armor of high value. They were unique, through and through.*“I spend my days in Mo Ling, with my council, and not a moment passes where I do not think of my kingdom. But what is a kingdom that makes it so worthwhile? Is it the fame, the fortune, the fact that not a soul in the land asks who the man is when the name Sun Ce or Liu Bei arises in conversation? No. Is it the fear you and I post to those smaller than us? No. It is the people, who bear their love for the kingdom they so loyally and lovingly serve. Whether they are farmers, soldiers, or politicians, they serve the kingdom, and how I love my people. I fight today for what I fight every battle in my life for. I fight for my people.
“I fight so that, one day, my people can look up to me with a wide smile and give thanks. Thanks for ending the chaos and bringing in an age of peace under the Sun Family. So that one day I do not see the women of my country crying at their doorsteps when I return from battle. I know very well the reason they cry, as a loved one has passed in the wars I have waged. You, Liu Xuande, know that just as well as I do. You fought your own brother for Shu, where I fought Yuan Shu, a man who was like a father to me, for Wu to see bright days in the future. And the sun is yet to set for my country. Shall it fall to darkness under my watch? Perhaps, but I shall never let my will die. We shall learn a lot about ourselves today, my friend.”*He gave little warning, immediately unsheathing his sword, flinging the sheath to his side. The horselords of the Ancient Sun Family rode up the blade with glory, wide smiles on their face as they hold high their weapons, as Sun Ce drew his sword. And they vanished as Sun Ce brandished it high. The moonlight hit the silver steel of the blade, reflecting a dim red shimmer over the ground below, as Sun Ce took off racing towards Liu Bei. It was the first match Sun Ce was to fight, but even if Sun Ce was the first of the final two, he doubted the opponent there would be as tough a fight as the opponent here.*
*Sun Ce held his spear in his right hand, his sword in his left. However, he held his spear with the blade facing up, the end facing down, and held it between his armpit. He was not planning to use it yet. Ce began closing he gap, hovering his sword a foot off the ground, pointed outward. He ran ready to defend himself should Liu Bei gather his courage to strike early. At striking distance with Bei’s spear, Bofu shuffled his feet, pivoting and shooting out to his right, dragging his left foot, and moving forward as much he could. He slashed out with his sword, aimed with an angle at Liu Bei’s side.*
|
|
|
Post by Sun Xiong on Aug 12, 2006 0:16:11 GMT -5
Xuande chuckled slightly within inner depths of his mind, knowing that the nobility of the two was quite far off, yet the shared the same morales, and motives for war, leading and unification. Yet, in the far off, high mountains, where these men would fight, there was no such things. Men could bring their ideals up, yet they wouldn't mean a thing in the end. Both men rose to this peak today knowing one would have to go in the end. "To put down the dog, to put down your enemy," Liu Bei repeated in his mind yet this did nothing for him, his eyes wrinkling as he looked upon his opponents formation, shooing said ideas back down the mountain. Nodding slightly he began to shift weight about his body, his opponent now ten feet away. He blinked, for the final time for the next few bouts. No, Liu Bei would spare nothing at winning, rather, living to ascent the throne yet again in a weeks time. He'd do anything to take out an arch rival, or a man that would do him pain in the future. But, it was such a pain to kill a man who's family had only done good to him, and a man who held the same morales. What if Xuande was to lose the war against the north? The tyrannical Cao family and Ma Teng would fight the good fight, yet the land would be burned with their fiery spirits. Neither of them could lead all, everyone new this. Xuande saw no other person than Bofu to lead if Shu failed. His mind continued, forgetting about the actions. And just then, battled entered his mind. He heard the foot steps, his opponent within striking distance.. He sprang into action, his coiled up body unwinding and lunging to his own right, his torso spinning in this action. His arms immediately prepared as well, the warrior within him taking over, and culturing his instincts. He would retreat for the opening blow, parry the attack in the nick of time. As though playing a game that people would play thousands years later, his spear swung to his left, feint power behind it. He could wield it in any direction, something his opponent could only tell if their blades connected. His body pushed off a bit forward, something he didn't expect, yet didn't matter to him, simply landing was a something to center on now. They both had taken their time previously, now their actions were like lighting itself, flowing free from the heavens as it scorns wicked and praises the noble. Xuande landed upon his right foot quickly, plating it firmly to the ground as his left began to sink into its own position just behind him. His arms would begin to appear back on his left side now, nimble, ready for anything just like before. He hadn't put much force into the first bout, and would savor the fluid movements he had yet again accomplished, just like in his earlier days. Once his landing was assured he'd spring forward slightly, not attempting to draw himself out yet give him the reach he needed to begin an attack. His right foot would move forward as his hands sprung into action, attempting to lightly slash at his opponent's waste, simply to get this fight going.
|
|
|
Post by Sun Xiong on Aug 12, 2006 0:16:40 GMT -5
*Sun Ce and Liu Bei were trapped. They were trapped in a world where they would have to fulfill the common needs of every man and every woman, or else they would plunder into a darkness, with their kingdom not far behind. The two were similar in so many ways. Yet they were also so separate, as if they were opposites. Liu Bei’s mind could not avoid the righteous option, always staying on the path of justice. Sun Ce’s road was not so straight, he would take a turn if he needed to, if it would be efficient, and help in the long run. But their minds were in the exact same places.*
*Sun Ce had to stop and admire the beauty of such a horrid wonder that encompassed the mountainside in which they battled. One could see over the moonlit horizon, the night sky curtained by high-hanging clouds. The mountain continued to raise up, and as it elevated, snow followed the ground, but there was no path to follow to ascend any higher. The path stopped, and that was where the battle was to be.*
*A small gust of wind blew. And with it blew the branches of a nearby tree. As the green leaves blew to and fro, the first bout was exchanged. How splendid a simple tree was on a battlefield. It imposed the look of beauty in a place where there was none. Soldiers would fight in a field, yet they’d be fighting harder at the sight of beauty, as something so small, so insignificant, was worth fighting for. But in this single battle, between Xuande and Bofu, what was it they were fighting for? Their people had no subject in the matter; this mountain was not to be claimed as an impenetrable fortress. Their land was far away, as was their family. There was nothing worth fighting this fight over.*
*But nevertheless, they fought. And the spirits of the dragons and tigers of the past had become apparent in the physical forms of Sun Ce and Liu Bei. Liu Bei, using whatever he could to maintain a high mentality, could hold his own with what he had. Sun Ce, however, used the Ancient Horselords of the Sun Family. It was a tall-tale passed down from father to sons of ancestors, before the time of Sun Tzu. They would stand as five: Sun Ai, Sun Shia, Sun Luo, Sun Guai, and Sun Ruyi. These five men did not ride horses to battle, but demons. Their steeds were as great of warriors as they themselves. Never did their shoulders part from three feet’s distance, and never did they fail. They could stand alone against an army, and stand tall as that same army fled moments later. It was the reason the Sun Family was dominant, as many of the fathers would say. They shared the blood of fierce warriors, who could never fall. Who stood united, and lost their invulnerability because their unity was broken. As the tale says, Sun Ruyi was poisoned by his wife for personal reasons, and the four remaining Horselords died in the very next battle, swarmed from both flanks, unable to maintain their stance. It was apparent that their unity bred their gifts. When Ruyi died, the four left could not fight as valiantly. But if Ruyi had lived, they would have been victorious until the days when their swords became too heavy to even hold. It is also said that Sun Ruyi weld the same blade, the Sun Ancestral Blade, that Sun Jian weld when he died, and that Sun Ce weld now. Whether that was true or not, was unknown, but not very likely.*
*The Sun Family not only had the Ancient Horselords, unmatched horsemen and swordsmen, but they had Sun Tzu. The unsurpassed military tactician. If one could unite the warcraft of the Horselords and the mind of Sun Tzu, they would be known as the incarnation of Ares, God of War. And this is what Sun Ce used to fight today. The Ancient Horselords… Sun Tzu. With them guiding his footsteps, patrolling his mind, one could doubt how Sun Ce could be struck by steel.*
*Bofu allowed Liu Bei to defend for himself. How noble would this battle be to kill his opponent in the first bout? He stepped back, preparing for the actual battle to ensue. Liu Bei began it, by an unplanned slash across Ce’s chest. One would not think another could plan his attack so fast, but Sun Ce had the greatest names in history backing him up, and he would come out the victor regardless of the strain he put on his body and his mind. He watched as the Guan Do approached, readying his sword, and gripping his spear, which was out of the way and would seem to be useless.*
*When the blade came into range, Sun Ce back away slightly where the blade of the polearm was to hit, taking his sword and blocking into the attack. He drove Bei’s blade across his body, bringing up his spear’s shaft, to lock to polearm in place. Using force from his arms, he pushed the spear down, kneeling with it, while attempting to bring Liu Bei’s face down aswell. He released, pushing forward his shoulder to simply bash his opponent. It was not an attack that would be a deciding factor in the victor of the match, but it would set things straight. It would clear any doubt that Sun Ce was true to his family name, and was a warrior.*
|
|
|
Post by Sun Xiong on Aug 12, 2006 0:17:48 GMT -5
A man of the Liu family was fluent in tongue. A man in the Liu family was fluent in battle. It was their job to defend the empire, and rise up for the Emperor, when diabolical men forced him down. This is how Xuande felt about himself, and his family. Though, he'd evolved far from his days in Xu, and far from his days being a small force in Jing. He was now someone who could fight the good fight, without lifting a sword. He had men such as Pang Tong, a Phoenix among others and the warrior Zhao Yun, his loyalty just one of his assets. Yet, even though it had seemed like it'd be years since he'd drawn his spear against an opponent, he still mastered the weapon with incredible ease, without having the true bloodline to do so. With grand, noble men stood other grand noble men. With the souls of Shu pushing him along he'd be unstoppable. With his control still over his weapon Xuande pulled his arms back just as the weapon was forced to halt admist Sun Ce's sword. Coiling his arm back up he pulled the weapon back, attempting to untie it from the demon that grasped it. With eyes of no true virtue Liu Bei continued the strike back to his right, pulling it far down now to steer completely clear of his opponent's vice. His feet now began to work, moving to his own right slowly with little pace, flanking Bofu as he went about, his spear now returning to his side. He'd now give his own opponent a chance to attack, his body still in position for a quick withdraw, or a counterattack of sorts. His spear was held in both hands, his right upon the middle, closer to the top than the bottom; his left upon its bottom. He held it on his right, his left hand lower and closer to his body than his right.
|
|
|
Post by Sun Xiong on Aug 12, 2006 0:18:36 GMT -5
*Know thy enemy as thy know thyself. These were famous words in the Art of War. And such an easy enemy to know was Liu Bei. Rumors were copious in the central plains and around Jing. Liu Bei was called a hero by his people for reaching Cheng Du and, thanks to officers such as Pang Tong and Fa Zheng, taking over. However Sun Ce doubted whether or not the rumors were true, as Cheng Du was ruled by Shu under Liu Zhang, one of the same family as Xuande, when Liu Bei took it over. He took over a country ruled by a kin, and established Shu-Han. The man had good intentions, but Bofu knew not how virtuous his actions were.*
*But he himself was similar. Yuan Shu was like a father to him. But they took over his lands without second thought, annihilating his army and destroying his kingdom. But did Yuan Shu deserve what he received? While Sun Jian battled Hua Xing, did Yuan Shu send supplies when they were needed? No, he allowed Ce’s father the trouble. He almost lost his life, but Jian won the battle, and it was believed Xiong was dead, but apparently that was not so. Sun Ce was a conqueror, and he could not allow the people to utterly blind him and set his path along the honorable road through and through. He knew this, Liu Bei knew this. There was no dishonor in such actions.*
*Liu Bei pulled his polearm back, continuing his attack in the meantime. But Sun Ce was able to steer clear of the slash by swaying his head back, still guiding the blade away with his sword. He swung his wrist clockwise, swinging his sword along with it, making the Guan Do’s blade recoil backwards. This was Ce’s chance to unleash his offensive. He bent his knees, rushing forward as a tiger wound pounce on it’s prey. He kept his spear held at the shaft, the blade aimed upwards, and the blade unable to make any attack at the moment. Ce took his sword, running to Liu Bei’s side, attempted to close in on him to make his Guan Do useless, and his position was perfect for such an exploit.*
*Closing the angle on Liu Bei’s side, he thrusted his sword at his lung, quickly jabbing and retreating the blade back. He rose to his height, bringing the butt of his spear to bash Liu Bei’s face, and spun around afterwards, holding out his sword to slit Xuande’s throat as a final attack of his bout.*
|
|
|
Post by Sun Xiong on Aug 12, 2006 0:19:31 GMT -5
Liu Bei, a Dragon under the blazing sun. Sun Ce, a Tiger within the mystical jungle. One who flew, one who stalked. Two who conquered. They'd conquered the deepest edges of their entitled foundations, scrapping off all else, so that they too could power armies like the Hero of the north. Between the three lords of the lands, there was little peace, or any form of a true discussion that would further place the kingdoms down the road of unification. Infarct, it seemed that each Kingdom was in the inescapable hole of retribution, the tiger no longer able dig into the ground, the Phoenix no longer able to beat his wings and the dragon no more a creature of the sky. First and foremost they would have to atone for their horrific actions when taking their lands, and the mass killings of their enemies, even if it was justifiable in their eyes. Though all knew this, they ignored it, fighting, warring for the hearts of their people, and the people across the border. Even so, the sky was only destined for two. A Dragon arose after Xu, climbing up from the mountains and slicing through the cool waters of Jing. The Tiger would look on, unifying his own lands, yet could not cross the rivers, it seemed.. That is until most recent events, when the Tiger proved to the Phoenix that it was most foolish to fly so closely to the ground. The Dragon looked on, and with powerful motives took a link from the chain, his claws burning into the lands as he reunited himself with the land of his birth, or rebirth. Jing, the very land he'd crashed into, being sent from the heavens.. The heavens that he so desired. They tested him, to see if he could bring those loyal, those followers who were worthy, back with him to the peaks of the mountains, those that toiled in the sky. A Dragon who was rolling through the lands, and building a monumental force. A Tiger who was grasping the ideals of flight, and intended to rule the jungles both north, south and west. And then the fading Phoenix, one that was itself, just like the peaks of the highest mountains, toiling in the high heavens. He was losing control, and it seemed his heir was no where to be found. After this crash, the final Phoenix would arise from its ashes, burning at a thousand degrees as it soars through the skies, giving its people hundreds and hundreds of years of prosperity.. Though, all die eventually, and the Dragon intended to live forever... The frenzy of battle engulfed the man, his situation awareness on over drive, puzzling through his surroundings as his mind put two and three together, coming up with a plentiful array of options for him to choose. With arms of steel, just like his opponent before him, Xuande regained his weapon from the momentum of his opponent, now already into his attack. The feet under him continued to slightly move to his own right, yet circling his opponent slightly. His left was preparing for something though, it seemed. His entire lower body was preparing for it, actually. His opponent began to cock his weapon, his arm for a thrusting action, to slay the dragon, or to simply puncture his exterior coat. The armor of Xuande shuffled though, his torso swinging with might as his arms came into view. And that was it, his body was now in action. He dragged his weapon from mid right across to his lower left. The part of his pole between his hands was simply there to counter the blow, his left foot pushing him so to slightly flank his opponent as he both attempted at dodging and pushing his opponent's sword away from him. But this was not all, the grand trident like blade upon his spear like weapon coming to his aid, sweeping through the thin mountain air, destroying the last bits of calm in this scene. The silent villagers looked on silently, almost as if looking past the men, gasping silently as they heard the grunts of the two warriors, their duel heating up just now. The blade would horizontally end up striking at his opponent's own left shoulder, simply attempting to wound him. Xuande wanted to fight, he'd let his opponent warm up if needed. Though Bofu was slightly hunched down, this wouldn't do much as the attack would still work, no matter if he rose up or stayed at his level. His feet now began to now slowly sink through the air, his left pushing off from the ground just now, escaping his opponent as his right began to attach itself to the mountain yet again. He exhaled with fervor, his strength well placed in this attack. Knowing his opponent was just as quick, if not more than himself, Bei would keep his strike moving, most likely and continue to deflect his sword. Eventually he'd push his right arm forward more than it already was and pull his left back. This would cause the weapon to slice at his opponent. He'd do this just before it hit his opponent. Having one hand near its bottom and the other in the middle helped him greatly, giving the balance and control over the weapon he needed. Considering his opponent might turn round and attempt at using his spear, Xuande would keep his attack moving, at temping to lock blades with his opponent, who could only use one arm his a defense at the moment.
|
|
|
Post by Sun Xiong on Aug 12, 2006 0:20:09 GMT -5
*This duel was much more then a simple number of bouts taken between a Dragon and a Tiger. No, it was far more then that. It was a pledge of glory between two rulers of men. On the field, none were trusted more then these two. In sessions of courts, no voice stood out more then those echoes that hailed from the head of the table. Those were always Sun Ce and Liu Bei. It was a rare occasion that two rulers would exchange bouts. It was even rarer when two rulers of three remaining kingdoms would duel. It was a rare, strange occurrence, but it was revered for generations. Sun Ce’s sons would be speaking of this battle, and their sons would alter the story some to make Sun Ce even greater and it would remain that way until it was as if a God was fighting mortal man. It would be the same with Liu Bei, his children would recite this to their children, and in three generation’s time, the Liu family would be known for Xuande eradicating Sun Ce.*
*No, this was not an average duel. It was grand in all aspects. It would be written and published by the most famous writers of China, and it would be read by many. It would be remembered. And how could Sun Ce better his reputation of his respected family then by winning this fight, and establishing the Sun Family as warriors, scholars, swordsmen, leaders, and victors. There would be none greater, none more remembered. Sun Ce now had another motive for victory, to further advance his ancestors foundation.*
*This was not Sun Ce’s first important duel. All who lived in Wu had read of Sun Jian’s conquest of Jiang Dong. And this meant that they read of Xilai Shao and Sun Ce. While attacking Liu Yong, Xilai Shao charged out and attacked against orders of Taishi Ci, who was the current Admiral of Wu’s navy. Shao used a spear with a blade that swept backwards, like a tail. It was stained by an eternal patch of blood, as the numbers of lives claimed by it was far too many to count. He was a warrior, but nobody knew who he was. He dominated the battlefield as Sun Jian ordered Sun Ce to end his reign.*
*Sun Ce was 24. Shao was two years younger. Ce charged him, his spear brandished high, while Xilai Shao kept a calm face upon his black horse. Before they clashed, he turned and sped away, Sun Ce turning to pursuit. He thrusted backwards, barely missing Ce, who continued to charge. So close was he to death. Shao pulled back his spear, as the tail of the blade missed Sun Ce by less then a centimeter. It is said that is what the scar on Ce’s face is from, and that Shao did pierce flesh on the attack. Xilai Shao was a horseman like none Ce had seen. He could stand on his horse while it sped forward, and he could deflect Sun’s sweeps on what seemed to be his poorly defended legs. But Ce held his own until he managed to strike his opponent’s horse. Such a man this one was, he dismounted and allowed his horse to recover, while he fought Sun Ce who was still on his horse. However, Ce dismounted to honor such an act. They fought each other from that point, to a complete stalemate. It would seem Xilai was doomed by a feint pulled off by Bofu, but he would miraculously pull off a parry. Sun Ce would repeat the deed.*
*That was ended by a surrender of Xilai Shao when he learned Liu Yong would kill him for disobeying orders. Aside from that duel, Sun Ce later battled the same enemy, Liu Yong, but this time he fought with Taishi Ci himself. That was also a stalemate, until he convinced Taishi Ci to also defect. Sun Ce had been in two duels against the same lord, and both were ended by his charisma. He could not win this fight by convincing Liu Bei to defect from Shu, but this was his time to brandish his might and claim the Dragon’s life.*
*Liu Bei had avoided a thrust to his lung, and threatened to put Sun Ce in a dangerous position. However, the tiger ducked and allowed his momentum to carry, moving forward and away from Liu Bei while he brought up his right elbow, allowing any attack on his rear to do nothing but jolt the shaft of Sun Ce’s spear. He now stood about five feet from Liu Bei, recovering hold on his spear. He spun around left, now holding out his spear as he spun, to swing it across Liu Bei’s face.*
*The attack was deadly, and Sun Ce hoped to catch Liu Bei in a sort of recoil as he bashed his blade into his face. He held his sword low, in reserve, preparing to help aid a defense if his attack backfired. Ce also followed through on his swinging spear by allowing it to carry, and bringing it back to his chest, placing it back between his armpit and side, the blade aimed up, the end aimed down. Sun Ce focused on defense now, as he would let the Dragon’s heart fade, while the Tiger readied his fangs for it’s next meal when the time came.*((Here is positioning: ------S ----L--))
|
|
|
Post by Sun Xiong on Aug 12, 2006 0:20:46 GMT -5
Two men of grand repute fought for their lives upon this peak. They didn't fight for their kingdoms, no, that would be settled upon the battlefield when it truly mattered. As both could be replaced, each had brothers or sons to take over once they had drawn their last breath. Yet, the land would come out with cries of rebellion, one of the grandest leaders of their time having fallen from their throne. But that was the last thing upon their minds, as the battle raged on both within their very minds and the space between them.. It was the dream of both that this somewhat trivial duel would be the last int he land, the one that sent a kingdom falling, falling into the other's shadow. Yet nothing like that would come of it, only war would come from this duel, clearly. If Xuande were to fall or if Ce were to fall, either of their kingdoms would avenge their lord with a most fiery rage. While of course the other kingdom would stand toe to toe with that army still with their leader.. Yet rage does something to men, turning them into suicidal warriors from the pits of hell. They wouldn't care to turn back into those very pits, and thus would fight the cause as if it didn't matter that they'd die. And thus a blood bath will erupt in both northern and southern Jing. Hell's flag will be raised upon the day the fighting stops, both Kingdoms being eradicated of their resources and power... Rage was brought upon Liu Bei, thoughts sweeping across his mind just as his blade did now. It collided with his opponent's, who at the moment was fleeing from the strike, his speed somewhat godly in doing so. His feet now upon the ground Xuande continued to flank his retreating opponent, pulling his weapon free from his enemy's space. And then as if lighting would strike the Sun warrior turned round, his spear already in motion. Xuande had thought his sword would come from this, the speed being displayed would give him the chance to sink in and attack the Shu lord. He brought up his famed pole weapon again, his right hand even higher upon the pole than before. Once the sword was simply readied Xuande prepared for the strike of his life, knowing the power of this sudden spin would be behind the onslaught from his opponent. The spear came from somewhat top left while Bei's own weapon came from bottom mid right. With what power he could quickly summon the western lord brought his spear up and aimed for his own pole to clash with his opponent's. His own better grip would provide better control as the opponent's pole weapons met just below their blades. A cry of strength was put forth, the power of the two about to entangle yet again. Liu Bei's next move would be to continue the blow, pushing his opponent, who's grip of the weapon would allow him to do so, along as his feet began to move one at a time. Once both of their weapons had met a dead lock Xuande would send his own spear directly toward his opponent yet keeping the pole upon his enemy's pole. At the same time his right hand would thrust at his enemy's left arm, his left hand would shoot forward, moving below the pole of his opponent's spear. This would unsubtly cause his opponent's spear to be pushed up now and away from its goal, the Shu King.
|
|
|
Post by Sun Xiong on Aug 12, 2006 0:21:18 GMT -5
*Clearness filled the minds of each warrior as they exchanged steel for steel, metal for metal. They thought of nothing but their blade, their opponent’s blade, and victory. Nothing else clouded their minds. For this short moment, this duel that would last for no longer a time it takes for the sun to rise, they were at peace. They fought for their lives, but they were at peace. Their officials were far away, their forceful voices no longer plagued the ears of these lords. Their family was distant now, barred safe behind miles and miles of friendly territory. Steel blades collided, letting loose loud clangs at collision, setting out sparks. Sun Ce saw nothing at all, aside from Liu Bei and his Guan Do. All else was nothing more then a purple haze. His footing was flawless, his control supreme. All he needed was an opening.*
*The rivers between Wu and Shu sat littered with war ships. For Wu, Lu Jiang. For Shu, Jiang Xia. The waters were tense, never calm, as it prepared for a full-scale war. The kingdoms rivaled for naval supremacy. For the longest time, Wu dominated the waters. But now, Shu challenged them. It would not be long before the ships of either navy set sail for the opposing city. Whenever this war began, there was no doubt that it would first take place on the waters of the Chang Jiang. They would fight, and they would die. There would be chaos, as always. But not here, not at this mountainside. Here there was peace.*
*Perfection was the key to a swift and dominant show of force in a glorious victory today. Sun Ce knew in his mind his next choice of action, but it would be difficult and daring to perform it. He would need to be perfect. He would need to be precise. He would need to be finesse. He would shine under a light of valor, as in his mind, he saw his stroke, and he knew how he could achieve this excellence. It would be tough.*
*Sun Ce stood now, as his opponent blocked his attack, using his firmer hold over his pole arm to his advantage. But was it truly an advantage, or was the clumsy hold over Ce’s spear an advantage for him? Bofu allowed Liu Bei to clash his pole arm’s shaft into his own spear shaft. As soon as contact was made, he loosened his hold, allowing recoil to take the blade, spinning it back to his possession right at his side. Sun Ce now saw Xuande attempt to strike at him, but he would not allow it. He moved his left foot back, moving his head out of the way. The blade of the Guan Do missed, by only a few inches. With his spear low to the ground, he brought it to his own left shoulder, slashing to the right, to knock Bei’s weapon away from his body.*
*There was now a clear opening. There was nothing now to protect Liu Bei’s chest, nor his face, nor his legs. Ce took no time to decide where his attack would go, as it was obvious what the best choice was. Still keeping his spear as an obstacle against the Guan Do, he took hold of his sword, holding it horizontal at his side. Aiming it for Xuande’s chest, he thrusted it inward. The blade pierced the atmosphere as the fatal attack approached, with little means of defense. Could this be the final bout?*
|
|
|
Post by Sun Xiong on Aug 12, 2006 0:21:53 GMT -5
The Imperial Uncle. The Imperial Uncle. The Imperial Uncle. What does one think, when hearing those words appear into a conversation. One would possibly think of a man in grand robes, serving the son of heaven, moving to and fro with his calls. A man who protected, supported and kept order within the court room. A man that was little, yet did quite a lot. Was respected by all, including the son of heaven. It was quite a while ago since Dong Zhuo had reigned over the capital, seemingly becoming an Emperor on his own, through the use of the current Emperors. The Han had been ruined. Hell, the Han had been defeated, by its own supporters. Everyone jumped on the band wagon after the scarves, acting only so to gain what little praise they could. The Han was respected by the people, the Han symbolized power and unification. The Rulers would obviously flock to this. This Imperial Uncle however, Xuande, was simply here to bring power to the most grand Dynasty. No longer did the Han control territory from here to there and near to far. No longer was there an Emperor, but just tyrannical officials and the most vile of dictators. This Imperial Uncle was no longer an Imperial Uncle. He was the Uncle of a fallen Empire, of a fallen Emperor. He was the only Imperial Uncle to stand up against all, so that the Han would be brought back again, dug up from the central plains and put back in power. This man would do it for all. This Uncle woke up every morning, searching the lands for the Han.. He wouldn't care if he had to search in Jian Ye, Ye or Chang An. He would restore the Han. He would live another day, he will go down in a fiery blaze if he is to go down at all. He would forever be known as the Imperial Uncle, who would never give up. Sun Ce was quite skilled with his blades, moving his arms about, flailing his blades around himself, attempting to draw up an opening for his next attack. How fierce this next attack would be, surely the death of Xuande.. Bei noticed his movements slowing, as if he was building for something. His right arm swung his spear about, attempting to cut off and push back Bei's. This did little to the steadfast lord who was now altering his attack, slowing it down. His feet however seemed to continue on, moving forward as his brain worked, buying himself time upon the battlefield. And then he found his own opening, quickly drawing back as his brain caught on to a plan, hooking and securing it down and away from the corner of his mind. His body lunged to act like he was retreating, his arms barely being able to keep up, simply holding his weapon firmly now. His opponent's spear cleared through the now empty space, their blades missing by what seemed miles, yet only a few sparse inches. A sword was thrust, the hidden attack, the ambush at the bottom of the hill. Xuande had made it this far, he wouldn't find death nor peace in such a blow, both men knew this. Performing his own sort of parry now that his feet had reached the ground and dug in, the Western King waited for the sword to pass his spear, in which he quickly pulled and moved his weapon back, and in so moving his left arm forward and his right arm back. Of course, this would only result in the sword being knocked away from the Shu Lord, out of position and now cut off by Liu Bei's own weapon.. Quickly rebounding from this the Shu lord put power behind his legs and arms, reversing what he just did and now pulling his left arm back and thrusting his right out. the defense now became the offense as his opponent was partially open for an attack, even if it would just be a flesh wound. Men upon the field of war lived for blood, quality and quantity didn't matter to his King. The only thing that did was if both men were bleeding at the end of the day. Blood shows that a man gave it their all. Not sweat, not tears, but the cold desolate liquid that flows through his veins. Liu Bei had moved his left foot forward now, extending himself so to put more power behind his blow as his arms and hands worked to his his opponent's chest.
|
|
|
Post by Sun Xiong on Aug 12, 2006 0:22:34 GMT -5
*The tiger stood now watching, as there was little he could do to further endanger Liu Bei’s life. He had done all that he could, and Liu Bei pulled off an impossible stunt in recovering his polearm, and managed to keep it close enough to his body to throw Ce’s sword off it’s mark. Sun Ce had done all he could, and put his opponent in a bad situation, but watched now as all he planned fell down. However, the sword was deflected slightly, but it struck Liu Bei’s side, causing a gash along his side.*
*A slight tint of crimson covered one of the two edges of Sun Ce’s sharpened sword, as he knew Liu Bei would have to clinch in pain to throw him off for a second. While Xuande adjusted to the sharp pain in his right side, Sun Ce found refuge by bringing his sword as close to his body as possible. Though the next attack was already zeroing in while Ce’s sword was still away, he would have it ready right away after the parry. Bofu recovered his spear after it sailed through the air, unable to hold Bei’s polearm at bay.*
*Sun Ce now had to be precise again. As the blade of the Guan Do approached, Ce took his spear held close to the blade, held outward, the shaft held between his armpit. He took step sideways with his left foot, crouching down for a better position. With the force from his thighs, he shot upwards, slashing his spear overhead to his left, hoping to forcefully knock away Liu Bei’s attack. After he made contact, he’d follow his momentum by sliding along Liu Bei’s right side, moving in too close for the use of the polearms, and he’d come to his feet as he’d also strike out with an attack at the already bleeding gash at Xuande’s side.*
*The battle was intense, the victor was nowhere near being decided. However, for now, it would appear that Sun Ce had the upper-hand. His blade was stained with blood for the first time in the evening, and now he’d be up close with Liu Bei’s hands both grasping the poled blade, which would be rendered useless if Ce’s tactic had worked. He was using finesse work of his legs to put his opponent always a step behind, always in a bad position, and he’d continue trying to keep it that way by rebounding with quick parries and quick assaults. A long battle would continue, until one of the warlords reigned supreme on the battlefield.*
|
|
|
Post by Sun Xiong on Aug 12, 2006 0:23:09 GMT -5
A scar would be to come of this, Xuande knew it. Just under one that had wounded him long ago, when he fled from a vast army, and struck out against another. Scars, the marks of battle, to prove that you had once put your own mettle against another's. Yet, at the end of the day what the hell did it matter for? Shame, shame and more shame. He'd been caught within the tiger's grasp, yet he wasn't done yet. No, he would make his opponent bleed with the same fervor that he did now. Blood trickled, the wound freeing up as more and more seemed to lightly drizzle down the side of one King, as his opponent worked around and began to move his spear back again, as if attempting to block the inevitable. With his footing Liu Bei continued to strike out, his right foot coming down now to twist his body, sending his nerves erupting as his opponent's blade twisted within his body, the blow finally ending. Hurt, yet ready for more, Liu Bei struck out, sending what force he could manage toward the tip of his blade as it sunk into his opponent's chest, ripping a gash through his armor, and tearing his flesh to nothing. Blood now trickled from the two Kings, it was no race either, the blows seemingly being noted as equal. Though it meant nothing, as the battle would come to an end quickly if their rebound was not strong enough. Sun Ce was already moving toward his next strike as Liu Bei moved another leg ahead as he pushed himself forward, the two warriors poles colliding now as the slid toward each other. Bofu moved his blade like a pro, yet it wouldn't matter with the position that the two would be in. Xuande's plan was to simply collide with his opponent, preventing any range from either of them as his own weapon came between them and Ce's to his sides. He'd continue moving, circling around and then pushing off with his weapon out, ready to deflect the next blow and then prepare his own. When the two collided Xuande put weight behind his movements, and could possibly knock his opponent back from him.
|
|
|
Post by Sun Xiong on Aug 12, 2006 0:40:50 GMT -5
(Please delete all posts here that aren't mine or Lyle's.)
*Bofu now had his enemy on the run. How often was he able to say that. His conquest with his father the years before his time as King were nothing but that. He’d charge with grace, at a set unit of spears, and rally his men to send them fleeing. By no consequence, he’d stretch his means to victory. It’s been a while since he could say he was worried about the outcome of a battle, and this battle was going down the same road as all others, clear road to victory.*
*Sun Ce was not tired, not fatigued, not wounded or scared or even touched as of yet, but the opponent on the other side would start to feel pain more and more as the battle progressed. He’d been hit on the side, a petty attack that would barely effect him, but then he was struck at the same spot once more, harder. Now, he’d start to bleed, and would lose blood more uncontrollably as the fight continued.*
*Sun Ce now lost all he could remember. He knew not his own name, the man in front of him, or the weapon he held. All he could recall was his skills with the spear and sword, and the will to kill the opposition. Liu Bei attempted to strike at an off-balanced Bofu, but he quickly recovered as best he could, bringing his spear up to deflect, slashing across the sky to throw Bei’s arms off, missing clearly. Ce turned and jogged out of the combat, getting about ten feet away before turning again to face Xuande.*
“I await the famous general of Shu-Han to defeat me. Do you have the valor and might they speak of so highly at the border, or will you fall and die so easily?”
*Ce sheathed his sword, dust forming around the tip of the sheath, fading and disintegrating into the cool night air. Bofu took his spear with each of his hands, blade aimed sharply at Xuande. He thrusted forward, towards nothing but empty space, slashing to his right with one hand, twirling it upside down, resting it between his armpit.*
“Now, king, let us fight with our true abilities.”
*Sun Ce lunged forward, ducking low. His left hand going down to grasp the hilt of his sword, as his elusive legs hopped closer, zoning in on Liu Bei. He took his sword, cutting upwards with support of an upwards lunge from his crouched position. As he came down, he’d carry his sword normally, slashing from Bei’s left shoulder down.*
|
|