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Post by Cao Cao on Oct 31, 2009 2:34:22 GMT
I'll add a map tomorrow. A Mod needs to come forth and do this battle. Cao Xiu, just post and use the city map as a reference, battle maps are identical i'm just adding a scale to them.
Theres your map!
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Post by Liang Zhi on Oct 31, 2009 3:46:56 GMT
Cao Xiu's Arrival The time was upon us, a land split into three, Wei, Wu and Shu, such a divition meant endless war, neither of the three would tolerate each other forever, a time of war was indeed upon the country. This day was not a war between the kingdoms themselves, no, this war was a war for territory and pre-emptive expansion for the kingdom of Wei, before their rivals had time to strike. The mighty army of Wei heading for Xiangping, numbered over ten thousand, they had enough for a prolonged siege, this was merely a battle for experience for the two young participants, juniors of the Cao clan. A experience that would indeed offer rewards to the empire they served and one of which that would benfit their military resume. Another warm day blessed the marching army, not a cloud in sight, the weather was pleasant and would cause no problems to the invading army of Wei, they marched on marvelling in the scenic mountains, streams - the landscapes before them, who could have believed that such an out of the way city would possess such scenary? The army marched grandly to the northeast, in neat ranks at a relaxing pace, the plain soft enough that they were comfortable, and on the whole enjoying their travel. The area took their minds off what battle may lay ahead. After years of training, this was it, the first time for some of these northern soldiers, and perhaps their last experience in battle. No, such a well marshalled army would return with minimal casualties. The lives of these brave men is in the hands of two men, their lords son Cao Zhi and his nephew, both young, the former having zilch on his military record. Cao Xiu marching in the center of his column was thinking to himself, "Why would uncle Cao send a poet to aid me in this attack? He may get us in a mess." Xiu sighed slightly, his lieutenant Tai Ming, riding alongside him overheard the sigh and put the question to his commander, "Why the sigh master Xiu? Such a beautiful view around us is one for enjoyment, not discomfort." Xiu looked over and smiled at Ming, "No, it's not that." Ming smirked and replied softly, "Master Zhi still has much to learn indeed, but don't let that put you off the task, Lord Cao has his methods, he obviously wants him to become more dependable in his ways, we should at least try and help the young lord." Xiu sighed, "How well you know my mind...we'll do our best." The two proceeded onward discussing the view. Meanwhile, the vanguard, under Dian Zhang was nearing the crossing over into Xiangping main district after passing through the various townships with warm welcomes, hailing the new order along the way. Zhang's spirits were high, he was a general after all, love from the people and respect from the empire is why he was here. He ordered his troops to pitch camp, and settle down in them, preparing for their meal and orders when Cao Xiu himself arrived on the scene. While doing this Zhang sent five scouts to reconnoitre ahead and check for suspicious activity or surroundings. Cao Xiu arrived shortly with Tai Ming during late afternoon, Xiu was impressed with how Zhang was conducting himself, he was usually a reckless chap, rushing into battles before he had even strapped his armour on or even armed himself. Xiu announced to his army, "All of you have your meal and have a good nights sleep tonight, tomorrow we prepare while waiting for Master Zhi to arrive with his forces. Then we set out. Have all the necessary equipment ready by then." The troops shouted in union and went about their ways. Later that night Xiu was sitting at the entrance of his camp gazing at the stars when Tai Ming walked up behind him and remarked, "A beautiful array tonight, isn't there" Xiu nodded after checking who it was. After a few moments of silence, Ming asked, "Is something troubling you commander?" Xiu simply replied, "Why? Do I seem off?" Ming nodded as he sat down beside him, "You seem more quiet than usual today, i've known you long enough to notice when your acting differently." Xiu pointed to a cluster of stars to their southwest, "The stars over the city are glowing remarkably bright tonight, a sign of fortune for those under them. That's what concerns me." Ming smiled as he replied, "I never knew you were a student of constellations commander." Xiu grinned, "Indeed, but I have heard that bright stars are a sign of fortune to those nearby." Ming stroked his beard, "It could be auspicious, we are afterall nearby, a sign of success perhaps?" Xiu shook his head, "It could be, but we'll have to proceed with caution, mabye we have a fight on our hands, a capable opponent perhaps?" The two sat there a while discussing it, until they departed for rest themselves. Command Unit- 50 Cavalry Archers
- 50 Armoured Lancers
Main Force Troops:- 2000 Swordsmen
- 2000 Spearmen
- 500 Bowmen
- 600 Crossbowmen
- 1200 Pikemen
- 200 Veteran Swordsmen
- 200 Veteran Bowmen
- 250 Scout Cavalry
- 50 Cavalry Archers
- 200 Raiding Cavalry
- 200 Heavy Cavalry
- 1050 Armoured Lancers
- 1 Drum Corps
Siege:- 2 Catapults
- 2 Siege Towers
- 10 Ladders
TOTAL: 8550 Troops EDIT: Recounted troops, my math was shot last night.
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Post by Cao Zhi on Oct 31, 2009 9:46:27 GMT
The fresh northern air took a while for Cao Zhi and his army to get used to, it was hard to breathe when they entered the area, some of the weaker men even fainted due to the unaccustomed enviroment, making them late to the battlefield. Cao Zhi urged his men onwards, although he himself wasn't feeling up to the upcoming conflict. "Sir, are you alright?" Asked his loyal servent, Wei Wei, with a hint of concern. "Of course I am. You should be looking after Liu Han." Cao Zhi replied with a faint smile, and indicating to Liu Han, who was vomiting. Wei Wei giggled and ran over to him to help.
Once the air, and the climate had been gotten over, they could really appreciate this beautiful area - filled to the brim with life. It would be a shame if they had to fight in this wonderful land, for then it would be soiled. Taking his mind off of that, Zhi thought of the blooming, sparkling flowers. The gentle, kind grass. And the strong, hard rooted trees. He saw insects, some rodents and even the occasional tiger cub! They all were warming Cao Zhi's spirits. He was hoping with all of the hope in his heart that these wonderful creatures wouldn't be disturbed from their home.
They stopped about 15 times on their trip. Mostly due to sickness, and food breaks that Cao Zhi gave. His treatment was "spoiling" the men, said Liu Han. Cao Zhi couldn't see how giving his soldiers good treatment could possibly spoil them. He even gave them the occasional bowl of wine from the Supply Train they were taking. That Supply Train would surprise even Cao Xiu, his cousin, who was always prepared for anything. He was a "model" student for Zhi, said his father. He didn't like it when people said that other people were better than him, he thought it was rude and horrendous behaviour. He never actually met his cousin, apart from one time, and he didn't really get a lasting impression of Cao Xiu.
After finally traversing most of Xiang Ping's territory, Liu Han spotted Cao Xiu's army camped out near the city. Maybe Zhi could convince Xiu to try things diplomaticly. He pulled their army into the camp and started to apologise for being late. Zijian left Liu Han and Wei Wei to converse with Cao Xiu's liutenents.
Zijian finally found Cao Xiu's tent and he, quite rudely, strode in. "Excuse me." He said quickly to get it out of the way to apologise for his terrible lateness. "I am extremely sorry for being late. A lot of army was feeling ill under these new conditions, even I.." He smiled a half smile. He looked outside of the tent at all of the soldiers greeted each other, exchanged hugs and talked gossip about the other soldiers. "I hope that this night will last forever. War was never suited for poets." He said sadly. It was then that he brought his idea to Cao Xiu. "Maybe we could write a letter, send an emmisary, anything to avoid this bloodbath!" He whispered franitcally. "I have also brought extra supplies." He added quite swiftly before becoming silent.
Soldiers: Command Unit 50 Scout Cavalry 1 Drum Corps 100 Pikemen Main Force 2000 swordsmen 2000 spearmen 1000 pikemen 500 bowmen 600 crossbowmen 1 supply train 150 scout cavalry 1000 armoured lancers 100 Raiding Cavalry 100 Veteren Bowmen 100 Veteren Swordsmen
Siege Units 2 Battering Rams.
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Post by Liu Bei on Oct 31, 2009 13:35:06 GMT
Gongsun Du woke abruptly to the cries of a worried servant. To them the first sight of the Wei army was breath taking. Gonsun Du walked briskly past many servants acting chaotically and scampering in their own directions. Du had already put on his battle garb, and adorned a cape, he did not bother to grab his weapons, or put on a helmet. Du was not going to war just yet. Soon an entourage of bodyguards and ministers formed behind the prefect. He had already walked straight out of the palace without giving any real orders, Du wanted to see what he was facing before making any decisions.
Xiang Ping had woken up early, the development was watched by peasants who usually worked the fields outside of the city. Now the same farmers cared for their families, had gathered their belongings, getting ready to ditch for the countryside. A fair portion of civilians were panicking aimlessly. It hadn't been since the Yuans came to take refuge that they had been bothered by Wei. Yet this time the city did not harbor any enemies of Wei; so why send an army? The realization came quickly to brighter of the peasantry.
Du had finally reached the ramparts, his entourage of nearly twenty followed. The prefect hadn't even said a word yet. Gongsun Du caught sight of the Wei army; and groaned in his mind. Du was an average man, with no particular features that would distinguish him as a leader. He looked non-menacing, but when words left his mouth in that certain tone of his, there was something more then leadership that compelled men to follow him. This something bordered on fear:
"Prepare for battle." Instantaneously his entire entourage had turned around and pushed and shoved to get back to the palace, they had prepared plans for a Wei advance, they just never thought they would use them. "And wake up my brother Kang!" His rough voice called after the servants, who were halfway down the steps already.
Two hours after the first arrival of the Wei camp; Xiang Ping's defenses were steadily being prepared. Gongsun Du had the Bai Ma calvary escort civilians out through the back gate, these people did not want to be left behind at the mercy of Wei when the inevitable came. As a fighting force, the one-thousand man strong Bai Ma calvary had dwindled throughout the years, especially after the fall of Gongsun Zan.
(Defenses will be PMed to Lyle - who is deciding losses for this battle.)
Gongsun Du had gone back to the palace after taking in another glimpse at the Wei camp. He knew there had to be well over ten-thousand, since day break, even more Wei troops had arrived. Du figured the Wei generals would want to talk with someone to talk. It was customary to do so. Du had volunteered himself to undertake the task, so he hastily prepared for the confrontation with one of the Wei generals. He practiced what to say, how to act and not show fear - if he could pull it off in the face of ten-thousand troops, it would be a feat.
Gongsun Kang - compared to the southern and central plain lords was a monster. At six and a half foot, his body was pristinely build by the rough environment around him. A large sword dangled at his hips while he walked. Kang ran into Du whilst Du was preparing to sally forth for the pre-negotiations. They started to talk, plan, and after a few minutes they reached a consensus on how to approach Wei. Kang would handle the defenses, and Du would stall Wei for as long as possible. Another courier was sent out to find the residential WuWan lords. Who may be willing to help fight off the invaders. Usually for a price.
Main Force Troops:- 2000 Peasant Levy
- 700 Swordsmen
- 500 Spearmen
- 550 Veteran Swordsmen
- 750 Bowmen
- 500 Crossbowmen
- 300 Veteran Bowmen
Bai Ma Calvary:
- 500 Calvary Archers
- 500 Armoured Lancers
WuWan Troops:
- Unknown
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Post by Liang Zhi on Oct 31, 2009 16:38:07 GMT
The First Move At dawn the next morning Cao Xiu was awoken to the sound of drill drums, he rubbed his eyes, laying back on his couch in the main tent. He sat up and stretched his arms, he stood up and put on his head cap. A servent bathed his feet and put on his shoes. He walked steadily out of the entrance, before him he saw the army doing drills, their banners darkening the sky, he grinned delightedly to himself. He walked forward his royal blue war gown fluttering in the cool morning breeze, as he appoached Tai Ming his hands clasped behind his back and said, "You're up early - as always." Ming looked toward him slightly and smiled. Ming waved the command flag to the west and the troops formed up a formidable formation, brandishing their spears and swirling their swords as they stepped majestically around the field, flaunting the martial powers before their superiors. Tai Ming and Cao Xiu were filled with admiration, turning to Ming, Xiu stated, "You have trained them well old friend." Ming bowed from the waist in respeect and said, "Basking in your reflected glory, I managed to keep them keen." Xiu chuckled modestly dismissing the compliment. The two continued watching the training field for sometime, until Dian Zhang stormed up and bowed. He announced, "My scouts have returned from last night, they say the city is marshalling it's forces for a firm defence. Prefect Gongsun Du has ordered the people of the city to evacuate to avoid our attack." Xiu frowned and said turning to Tai Ming, "This is the reason why the stars shone so brightly last night, the great Gongsun Du is still here! I thought he passed away years ago?" Ming said, "It must have just been a rumour, I too heard it." Xiu continued, "For us to have forced the people out of their homes, is a crime against heaven. Our virtuous conduct in our moves must make up for this crime." Zhang continued, "Gongsun is also leading a score of cavalry to speak with you commander, his intentions seem peaceful, but his moves thus far scream war, take care." Xiu nodded, "Zhang, you join me in the meeting, just incase of some fowl play. Ming you help the young master hold this encampment." Both respectfully bowed, Ming departed. Once Ming had left, Zhang approached Xiu once again, "Last night the scouts also reported that a fast rider flew out of the city's north gate and rode northwest." Xiu stroked his beard in thought at the reason, and then it struck him, he stamped his foot and cried out, "They're going to get help from the Wuhuan! This will catch us inbetween them." Xiu paced foward in alarm. He said, "This meeting with Du might be a negociation for peace, but it will also give them time to wait for the Wuhuan." Zhang agreed. Xiu reflected aloud, "The Wuhuan were crushed a few years ago by my uncle, they are weak as a tribe now...They ont pose much of a threat, but if they bring a large force, they'll indeed cause us problems, no matter how minor." Xiu returned to his camp and split his army into three units, Tai Ming in charge of support operations with 3000 troops, Dian Zhang led the Vanguard with 1000 men, he himself took command of the main force consisting of over 4000 men. At that moment Cao Zhi arrived with his force, Xiu was about to get up and meet him at the entrance of the camp to greet him, when he rushed in without announcing himself. Xiu was slightly annoyed with the way Zhi conducted himself, but didn't show it. "Cousin, welcome to Xiangping..." Xiu smiled, "You'll learn something of war today. But now is not the time to talk, I have a matter to take care of." He donned his armour, and helmet, strapping his sword to his waist he approached Zhi, "I have to meet with the Prefect." Xiu strode out of the tent, and called for his horse, looking towards Zhi he said, "Take good care of the camp and give your men some rest, have them ready for when I return." Xiu summoned Tai Ming and Dian Zhang and charged them, "Ming take care of the young master, and prepare the siege engines - just incase; Zhang gather eight of our finest riders and come with me." The two bowed respectfully, Ming glanced at Zhi and noting the youth still in his face and inexperience in his eyes withdrew silently back to the training field. Zhang soon returned with the riders, six bearing lances, two bearing bows. Cao and Dian mounted boldly, their armour reflecting in the morning sun. "I'll see you when I return Zhi, don't neglect my orders." The party of ten sped off a good distance, then stopped, awaiting Gongsun's arrival to inform him of their purpose. Xiu sat atop his steed in the center of his eight followers, Dian Zhang, armed with his halberd, mounted next to him, incase of fowl play. Cao Xiu's Command Unit- 50 Cavalry Archers
- 50 Armoured Lancers
Commander - Cao Xiu's Main Unit - 1000 Swordsmen
- 1000 Spearmen
- 250 Bowmen
- 250 Crossbowmen
- 700 Pikemen
- 200 Veteran Swordsmen
- 200 Veteran Bowmen
- 100 Scout Cavalry
- 50 Cavalry Archers
- 100 Raiding Cavalry
- 100 Heavy Cavalry
- 550 Armoured Lancers
- 1 Drum Corps
TOTAL: 4500 Troops Support - Tai Ming's Unit - 900 Swordsmen
- 900 Spearmen
- 500 Pikemen
- 300 Bowmen
- 300 Crossbowmen
- 100 Scout Cavalry
- 2 Catapults
- 2 Siege Towers
- 10 Ladders
TOTAL: 3000 Troops Vanguard - Dian Zhang's Unit - 100 Swordsmen
- 100 Spearmen
- 50 Bowmen
- 50 Crossbowmen
- 50 Scout Cavalry
- 100 Raiding Cavalry
- 100 Heavy Cavalry
- 500 Armoured Lancers
TOTAL: 1050 Troops
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Post by Cao Zhi on Oct 31, 2009 17:40:24 GMT
Cao Zhi was talking to Cao Xiu, when Xiu suddenly stated that he would be meeting the prefect of Xiang Ping, Zijian wanted to go too - but Cao Xiu was quite clear in his orders. Cao Xiu then rode out with one of his liutenents before Zhi could even object to it. Zijian called forth his loyal subjects; Wei Wei and Liu Han. "Alert the men that this is a time for rest, no drinking, they may have a small snack, but they must be resting." Zhi whispered quietly but sternly to them. While they were out forcing his soldiers to rest, Cao Zhi started to write a poem. He was a poet, writing a poem was in his nature. It was his favourite pastime, and it always warmed him when wrote poems. Poems were an extension of a human being, they defined one's character - Cao Zhi was very good with poetry, which made him a good, favoured son of Cao Cao.
He wrote, ink flashed and splashed everywhere, even over the parchment. He felt passionate about this, it was the only thing he could really contribute to this battle. His wild writing got ink all over his new tunic, which slightly disappointed him, he was usually only this careless when he was drunk. After 5 or so minutes of this madness, Cao Zhi was finished.
He summoned a messenger. "Take this to the location where Cao Xiu is and give it to the regional lord, we must avoid this battle." Zhi said. The messenger bowed, and stormed off on his horse. Zhi fell on the soft grass wondering if he could lie like this for the rest of his life..
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Post by Liu Bei on Nov 1, 2009 16:29:38 GMT
Gongsun Du walked briskly in a dark corridor of the palace. His home - his kingdom was to be sieged today. No matter how the negotiations went. Whatever Cao Cao wants, sooner or later he'd get it. Gongsun Du had ran the numbers through his head; consulted his ministers. With every resource at his disposal; the chances still looked grim. It seemed like Wei had a 3:1 ratio when it came to manpower; or so his surveyors had told him. And if the regional Wuhuan lords joined in, there were no telling how many men they would bring to the fight. Their power was not nearly as strong as it had been; especially after the fight at White Wolf Mountain.
Gongsun Du then came to conclusion, he would probably die in this battle, and his kingdom will succumb to Wei. He thought to himself, there would be no other way out of this. As Du came out from the palace steps he saw Gongsun Kang giving his son, Gongsun Yuan, to a lone rider. Yuan was merely a baby, and to ensure the survival of the Gongsun family, he had to leave east. The rider was dressed in warm clothing, not armor, nor even armed. Du had overheard him talking to Kang: "I will protect the young master, my lord." He clasped his hands together and gave a small nod, then his horse took off, after exiting the back gate they disappeared. They were to flee to Goguryeo.
Kang turned to face Du with a solemn look on his face. They didn't say a word, and Du was off to the stables. The prefect met with an entourage of twenty riders, and together they rode down the main road. Du's men were already taking position, and through the numerous barricades, maneuvering was tough. The main gate was already open, in anticipation for the prefects departure.
The prefect darted out of the main gate, twenty more horsemen formed up behind him. He saw, a distance away, the Wei part of ten. They were the negotiators, Du thought to himself. The prefect arrived at the scene, with his entourage behind him. The enemy general, Cao Xiu, though unknown to Du, was atop his horse, in front of Du. They were apart by approximately ten meters.
It was a custom; that formalities came first:
"I am Gongsun Du, lord of this land," His voice was clear, no sense of fear surfaced. Only confidence, "I do hope you've brought warm clothing."
He couldn't help but slip a smirk.
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Post by Liang Zhi on Nov 1, 2009 18:22:22 GMT
The Meeting At camp Tai Ming ended the daily exercises and gave the troops time to have their noon meal, before preparing for assembling the siege weapons. He himself lay down on the grass and shut his eyes while the troops ripped through the food given to them. Meanwhile on the road to Xiangping, Cao Xiu's party were quietly sitting atop their steeds, after an hour of waiting Dian Zhang grew impatient and started shuffling about on his saddle, "Commander he's not coming, lets just launch the attack!" Cao silenced him with a motion of the arm, "I trust that he'll be here shortly." Dian Zhang lowered his head and said nothing. A few minutes afterwards a party of twenty rode along the road and stopped about ten metres away, their leading general announcing himself as Gongsun Du. Xiu looked at Dian Zhang who lowered his head again. He then guided his horse a few steps and clasped his hands in a gesture of respect, "General Gongsun, your name rings throughout the empire and it makes this young general proud to meet you today in person." Xiu paused for a moment or two and then began his side of the conversation, he wasn't much of a negociator but he was going to try, "General, this unfortunate war brings us together, the Imperial Secretarist Cao Cao brings this war for the benefit of the nation, we will fight it out for what we see as an important piece of soil such as this, though a remote city in the corner of the realm, your city General, threatens our own security as a kingdom. Lord Cao seeks not the extermination of your clan or your followers, but their allegiance and trust." Xiu paused for a moment to allow Gongsun to take in what he had already said then continued his reasoning, "War brings suffering to both Wei's and your people, Sun Tzu says, 'War is a matter of vital importance to the state, it is a matter of life and death, survival or ruin.' I fight this war for the Emperor in behalf of Cao Cao, because it is my duty, I do not enjoy war but misery is unavoidable in times of war. If you tender your allegiance now to our nation, I can personally guarantee that you can keep your position here in this distant region, your clan will hold office and your decendants will inherit those titles and ranks. However..." Xiu paused and then continued again, "...if you decide to fight this war, which you are preparing to do, I cannot guarrantee your safety. You're a great figure of our age General, you hold Korea and Liaodong, with your allegiance, you can resume control of these lands and have a partnership with both the Emperor and Cao Cao and chances for promotion, enchancing your fame. The decision is down to you General." Xiu held his reins and stood still awaiting Gongsun's reply. Just then a messenger from Cao Zhi rode up, bearing a message for use in persuading the Prefect to lay down his arms, Xiu smiled and said to himself, "I'll keep hold of this for now. Zhi's poetry can't help us just yet." He bid the messenger return to camp and put the scroll on the side of his saddle, saving it for if he needed to draw it later in the discussion. Back at camp after the meal Tai Ming had the troops get ready for the order to either withdraw or to begin mobilization, in the meantime he had them put together the siege engines just incase. Cao Xiu's Command Unit- 50 Cavalry Archers
- 50 Armoured Lancers
Commander - Cao Xiu's Main Unit - 1000 Swordsmen
- 1000 Spearmen
- 250 Bowmen
- 250 Crossbowmen
- 700 Pikemen
- 200 Veteran Swordsmen
- 200 Veteran Bowmen
- 100 Scout Cavalry
- 50 Cavalry Archers
- 100 Raiding Cavalry
- 100 Heavy Cavalry
- 550 Armoured Lancers
- 1 Drum Corps
TOTAL: 4500 Troops Support - Tai Ming's Unit - 900 Swordsmen
- 900 Spearmen
- 500 Pikemen
- 300 Bowmen
- 300 Crossbowmen
- 100 Scout Cavalry
- 2 Catapults
- 2 Siege Towers
- 10 Ladders
TOTAL: 3000 Troops Vanguard - Dian Zhang's Unit - 100 Swordsmen
- 100 Spearmen
- 50 Bowmen
- 50 Crossbowmen
- 50 Scout Cavalry
- 100 Raiding Cavalry
- 100 Heavy Cavalry
- 500 Armoured Lancers
TOTAL: 1050 Troops
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Post by Cao Zhi on Nov 2, 2009 10:10:04 GMT
Cao Zhi was still laying on the grass, gazing up at the clear sky, trying to avoid the sun, although it was magnificent. Wei Wei arrived next to him, and stared at him quite awkwardly. Cao Zhi sat up, trying to replicate the face. "Ew.. Who's face is that?" She asked with disgust. Zhi burst into a laugh. "What?" "It's you!" He laughed. Wei Wei, looking mortified, felt over her whole face, which made Zhi laugh even more. Once she had finally gotten all over that, she sat down to talk to Zhi - speaking softly so no one could hear them too easily. "The men have been gathered in one place and Liu Han is watching over them to make sure they're resting." She looked closer at Zhi and noticed all of the ink stains over his robes. "Ew... What have you been doing to get all of these stains?" She asked apprehensively. "Oh, I wrote a poem for the provincial governor to surrender to us. Oh, here comes the messenger now!"He said, feeling excited and tingly inside. Once the messenger rode up, after what seemed like a decade, Zhi bombarded him with questions. "Did he like it? Will he surrender? Did Cao Xiu like it? Did he think I worked hard over it? TELL ME, TELL ME, TELL M-" "My Lord, Cao Xiu has taken the poem, he said he would use it at a more appropriate time..." "WHHHHHHAAAAAAAAAAAAATTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT??" Zhi screamed. He was quite irritated at the turn of events, and he would not accept this... In order to vent his absolute rage - he stormed off. In a few minutes Wei Wei found his hiding location (behind a tree), and she sat next to him. "What's wrong?" She asked, her tone of voice being nice and cuddly to Zhi. "Cao Xiu didn't read my po-" "Is that all you think of, poems?! Did you ever think that Cao Xiu might be reading your poem at an appropriate time, maybe that wasn't a good time to read it. Your cousin is a good man, and now isn't the time to be doubting him, and starting to get upset over him!!" She barked. That short speech made conflicting emotions inside of Zhi. He stood up and turned to Wei Wei, who was still sitting on the dirty ground. "You're right, I should trust my cousin. But for now, we should rest. Let's go to the tents." Wei Wei nodded, approving his actions. Just as they went, Zhi looked to the sky. "Please Cao Xiu, keep going, don't let the war break out..."
(sorry about this post being sloppy, I'm not feeling very well, and my mind seems to be like that too - just wantred to keep the battle going.)
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Post by Liu Bei on Nov 3, 2009 2:57:09 GMT
Gongsun Kang's horse darted through the streets of Xiang Ping. He knew in his mind that the people here in the city loathed Wei, they wouldn't consider sacrificing their freedom. Then why the hell did only two-thousand volunteer?! When he knew that there were a lot more able-bodied men in this city, of forty thousand. They were afraid of their own skin, they were cowards. For all Kang cared, they should die fighting. Kang has always regarded his brother as being soft, he was too lenient on the people of Xiang Ping. Even though Kang had tried to force young men to join the army for a required one-year service, Du ended that law years ago, 'There's no need for it, brother.' Du had said.
"Well look at us now!" Kang cursed under his breath, for a moment he had wished he were ruler of Xiang Ping, he would've had a lot more then a mere two-thousand volunteers. The mention of the number infuriated him. Kang knocked on the door of very large home, two of his own men accompanied him.
The door creaked open only an inch, a woman's eye peeped out. Instantly she saw Gongsun Kang, and froze with what Kang thought was fear. That's good, Kang thought, what good is a man if he is not feared?
"Let me in." Kang's voice was rough, and not the least bit inviting. The woman behind the door faltered, sensing this Kang pushed open the door himself with one swift, yet powerful thrust of the palm of his hand. The door flung open, sending the woman behind it backwards into a large room. As it turned out, that's what the house was, one large room. A few straw beds, a corner to prepare food. It was home to not one family, but by the looks of it: three.
They cuddled in fear, perhaps they had been expecting an armed Wei solder. Small children, some women, but to Kang's dismay, five able-bodied men, and three adolescent boys - old enough to wield a sword. "Cowards!" He blurted out, "Have you anything other then self-interest!?" He entered the house un-impaired, and the other two swordsmen with him did the same. "We are preparing to fight for our independence, and you sit here in fear!" All of them were shocked by his voice, the woman who had fell over was aided by girl, Kang stepped over them and inspected the room further. He had not seen it before, but standing upright against the wall were farmer's tools on a rack. "Farmers! A scythe and a pitchfork can be deadly weapons..." He thought to himself out loud, "Grab the men, and the three boys." One of them was about to speak in protest when the two swordsmen with Kang drew their weapons. It was all the convincing they needed, die as insubordinates, or take their chances in battle.
One of the swordsmen tore a boy from a womans arms, she started to weep, and then yelled through her tears, 'Take me instead!', 'He'll die if he fights!', 'Don't take my only son!' Kang turned around, he was just about to leave the house, he pointed to the boy with an outstretched index finger, "How old are you?"
The boy answered back through his fear and anxiety, "Fourteen."
"Overdue for his first kill." Kang concluded and stepped out of the house, practically dragging the kid by his collar, the woman was horrified. Once Kang was outside he encountered Gongsun Fan, a distant relative of Gongsun Zan. He had chosen to become some sort of minister in the palace - they hardly talked.
Fan was told earlier to round up the able-bodied men and force them into the fight. He was probably here to report: "The operation is being carried out all through-out the city." Kang nodded, and looked up and down the main street, indeed it was, his men were breaking into homes and taking away adolescent boys, and forcing men into service. A lot of the houses were already empty because of the evacuation to Goguryeo.
Kang infuriated when he heard that an entire block of the city was empty, they must had taken part in the evacuation. The numbers would come up short, he imagined, if the lot of them had stayed - then there would've been more men to force into service. Kang flushed with anger, he hated being beaten
As if reading his mind, Fan answered: "It looks like more fled to Goguryeo then we first imagined." Fan was still atop his horse, and he answered in a condescending tone that made Kang want to punch him in the stomach. He refrained from doing so.
~
Gongsun Du listened to the Wei general with interest. The general had chose to skip telling Du his name, which was rather odd. He then heard that the general was a fan of Sun Tzu; and recited a verse from the The Art of War. It won't work on me, Du thought to himself, he wouldn't let himself be sold into some fake alliance that granted Wei all of his possessions. The northerners were very fond of their freedom.
"General," Du started, "You are a reader of Sun Tzu's texts? Then you obviously know that to siege a well-armed city is suicide. Sun Tzu states that you require three-to-one ratio," Du gave a sly, knowing smile, then quipped, "My surveyors assure me, you do not have a three-to-one ratio." Du would leave out the exact numbers - he wouldn't want the general to catch his bluff. He thought to himself though, he was being a rather good actor. It might be one of his entourage though who gave him away.
"Forgive me general, as I do not understand why Cao Cao has fabricated this order to bring war to my land - I have not made any incursions in the past against Cao Cao, nor have I pledged allegiance to the rebels." He was referring to Sun Quan and Liu Bei. "And yes, it is indeed true that I am marshalling my forces. But you must forgive as I mistook you're army as," He paused, pondering, "Well, an act of war, and not one of goodwill."
"General, perhaps if you would formally introduce yourself first, then we may discuss the conditions of your withdrawl. As I assure you, there is no reason for Cao Cao's act of war with the Gongsun Family." Du thought he was being rather clever, he had not mentioned surrendering, nor had he stated directly this war was with the Emperor, but rather with Cao Cao. Du gave another knowing smile.
Main Force Troops:- 2000 Peasant Levy
- 700 Swordsmen
- 500 Spearmen
- 550 Veteran Swordsmen
- 750 Bowmen
- 500 Crossbowmen
- 300 Veteran Bowmen
Bai Ma Calvary:
- 500 Calvary Archers
- 500 Armoured Lancers
Citizens of Xiang Ping:
- Unknown
WuWan Troops:
- Unknown
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Post by Liang Zhi on Nov 3, 2009 4:27:58 GMT
The Discussion Tai Ming had the men working all day, the siege engines had been unpacked - in parts of course, and had the soldiers go to work in assembling them, while he oversaw the operation; even if there was no need for them Ming thought, they would be assembled for the future, and would save precious time. Cao Xiu listened closely to the Prefect's reply and replied first with a smile and clasped hands, "Forgive me, I am Cao Xiu, nephew of the Imperial Secretarist." To Gongsun's declaration on his unhostile position he replied, "Indeed you have not been hostile to us, and we will always will remember your merits and your help against the Yuan brothers. But as always, times change, these can be for the better or worse. My lord sends me to earn your full allegiance, as well as restore Xiangping to Han jurisdiction. A man of your ability I am sure will understand our purpose at heart is one of peace, our exterior however is braced for the possible outbreak of war." Xiu was intreged with Gongsun's stand on his Art of War comment, and replied confidently, "Indeed I am, I find it to be a must read for a man of war and to ignore it would be to do so at my own peril. Indeed the treatise advises against siege warfare, but I am sure you are familiar with Sun Bin? A descendant of Master Sun himself? His own treatise, the Sun Bin Bing Fa, teaches us Generals how to overcome the disastors of siege battles. A siege battle is avoidable but also necessary" Then Xiu replied with a smile, "I am ready to assault the city if I am compelled to do so, a well fortified one i'm sure, I have my methods." Trying not to be pushy nor rude Xiu stated finally, "Our banners fill the sky sheltering over 15,000 men, as we march their spears and swords cover the plains like a mobile forest, they will live and die for the country and are ready to do battle with your forces General, I respect your valor and would prefer to have you lay down your arms. You are advanced in years General, your hair is streaked with white, you are a renowned champion here on the borders of our vast country. The day will come sooner or later, if I withdraw now, another expedition will begin under another commander, best to spare the people further misery and tender your allegience today." Xiu continued, "I will personally petition the Emperor to uphold your rank, my word once made is never broken." The Tao teaches, "'Do not make their lives weary. If you do not weary them, they will not become weary of you.'" Xiu let the Ancient Sage Lao Tzu's words sink in and then explained, "You have sent your people fleeing over mountains, deserts and unfamiliar waters to escape our attack, while well intended, you will earn their hate for making them desert their homes. This will weary them of you." "Consider my words general, you are outmanned and do not have the support necessary to hold onto your independancy here. Let your heart guide you on the right path. The city will benefit from Lord Cao's reforms in the government as will your standing here." Xiu clasped his hands again and bowed his head, "Think it over General" Cao Xiu's Command Unit- 50 Cavalry Archers
- 50 Armoured Lancers
Commander - Cao Xiu's Main Unit - 1000 Swordsmen
- 1000 Spearmen
- 250 Bowmen
- 250 Crossbowmen
- 700 Pikemen
- 200 Veteran Swordsmen
- 200 Veteran Bowmen
- 100 Scout Cavalry
- 50 Cavalry Archers
- 100 Raiding Cavalry
- 100 Heavy Cavalry
- 550 Armoured Lancers
- 1 Drum Corps
TOTAL: 4500 Troops Support - Tai Ming's Unit - 900 Swordsmen
- 900 Spearmen
- 500 Pikemen
- 300 Bowmen
- 300 Crossbowmen
- 100 Scout Cavalry
- 2 Catapults
- 2 Siege Towers
- 10 Ladders
TOTAL: 3000 Troops Vanguard - Dian Zhang's Unit - 100 Swordsmen
- 100 Spearmen
- 50 Bowmen
- 50 Crossbowmen
- 50 Scout Cavalry
- 100 Raiding Cavalry
- 100 Heavy Cavalry
- 500 Armoured Lancers
TOTAL: 1050 Troops
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Post by Cao Zhi on Nov 3, 2009 16:46:04 GMT
(NOTE: You shouldn't really bother reading this - as it's just me sending one of my NPC's back to Xu Chang.)
While Cao Zhi was sleeping, when he was shaken awake very violently, by Liu Han who started to yell at him for not waking up quick enough. After shaking away the sleep and standing up to face Liu Han, he got the message. "We've receieved an official order from Xu Chang. We are to send one of our liutenents back to assist with issues there." Liu Han explained. "I see." Cao Zhi wondered who he should send back, then he decided on sending back Wei Wei. One, because Liu Han was better at leading soldiers, second because Wei Wei was better at diplomatic things, third because Wei Wei didn't like conflict. "WEI WEI!" Cao Zhi screamed. A few seconds later, Wei Wei arrived trying to rub the sleep out of her eyes. "What is it?" She asked wearily. "We've receieved an official order from Xu Chang to send a liutenent back, I've chosen you - as you'll be most useful there." Wei Wei opened her mouth to protest, when Liu Han lifted her right off her feet and set her down next to a tent. "Get ready." He said, smiling slightly. Wei Wei frowned. "You're happy to see me go, aren't you?" She said in a nagging undertone. "Bye." Liu Han grinned, and left Wei Wei to go back to Xu Chang. She left after an hour, looking back sadly, then galloped into the distance.
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Post by Liu Bei on Nov 5, 2009 0:51:13 GMT
At this point Du was getting agitated by Cao Xiu's words. This 'alliance' was merely a surrender in disguise, Du concluded in his mind whilst Xiu whas still talking. Du shifted in his saddle. He wasn't aware if his face was flushing with anger at the moment. It was courteous of him to clasp his hands, Du noted, amused. Cao Xiu finished his rather long, and respectful speech:
Xiu said: "Consider my words general, you are outmanned and do not have the support necessary to hold onto your independancy here. Let your heart guide you on the right path. The city will benefit from Lord Cao's reforms in the government as will your standing here, think it over General"
At that moment he suddenly faced the grim reality. He recalled Xiu has said: "15,000 men" Du did not think Xiu to be a liar. I can not just think of my own selfishness, Du thought. The image of Xiang Ping, a mere rubble of ash filled his head.
He swallowed his pride:
"What are the conditions of the alliance?" Du said through clenched teeth.
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Post by Liang Zhi on Nov 5, 2009 7:46:59 GMT
Cao Xiu replied with enthusiasm to Gongsun's question and in a comforting tone, "All we ask is that the city be ruled under the new laws set by the Imperial Secretarist, we will not force you out of your job. As long as Lord Cao has your loyalty and cooperation we expect nothing more. I personally guarrantee that you will be allowed to maintain your position, you're a highly respected General and it we could do nothing less."
Xiu continued, "The court will send a couple of officials to support you in running the place, put the new laws in place and help you adapt at your own pace. It wont be any radical changes to your ruling style, but there will be some noticable changes in agriculture indefinately." Cao Xiu bowed, hopely concluding the agreement with Gongsun, who seemed willing, but Xiu feared that his brother Kang, might lead Du to change his mind.
((Poor post but I'm going to college in less than a half hour, and I didn't want to leave you two waiting for seven hours.))
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Post by Cao Zhi on Nov 5, 2009 18:10:33 GMT
Cao Zhi continues doing what he is doing (I don't really have anything to post >_>).
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