Chapter 126
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Chapter 126
Roused by the piercing sunlight, the pain shakes me down to my core, an unintelligible groan escaping from my lips. Tugging at my blankets to cover me, I struggle against a heavy weight, contesting me for them. Eyes clenched shut, I muster all my strength and emerge victorious as the blanket flops over my face, disgustingly wet and slimy. Sputtering in disgust, I roll aside and bury my face in my pillow, groaning as my stomach churns.
Rainy, it's time to wake up, ya? Gently massaging my scalp with one hand, Lin places something down on the nightstand. I made you an herbal tea, drink up and get dressed, okay? Breakfast is waiting for you. Ignoring my groaned response, she leaves the room, humming softly as she closes the door behind her. Sinking back into sleep, an insidious thought worms its way into my mind.
Why is Lin waking me up in the morning? Oh no... why were the blankets wet?
What have I done?
Panic grips my heart as I bolt up and check the surroundings. Thankfully, it's my room and I'm fully dressed, still in the clothes I went to the festival with, stained with alcohol and blood, which worries me. Crashing back down in relief, my heart rate decreases back to normal levels. Turning to pet Auric, his eyes close with a rumbling purr as he suckles at my blankets, the source of the wet, disgusting patch. Some guard cat he turned out to be. His claws extend and retract as he kneads at my bed, continuing to slobber away, the little kitten unwilling to break the simultaneously adorable and disgusting habit.
Dressed and cleaned, I stumble out to the dining room, resting my head and hiding from the light. I shouldn't have drunk so much. Even with the ability to remove alcohol from my system, it doesn't keep me from getting hangovers. Plus, after a certain point, control over my chi gets wonky and I can't even sober up. It's a good thing I don't have training today, with everyone pitching in to help clean up.
Rainy, Rainy, Rainy. A light tug on my elbow draws my attention, and Little Tali stares up at me with a smile before lowering her head to show me her ribbons, little bells jingling merrily. Look, Lin-Lin made them for me.
Gasping in feigned excitement, I praise the little munchkin. Ohthose ribbons are so pretty. Did you remember to thank Lin? Ribbons, why didn't I think of that? It's way easier than braiding the bells into her hair all the time, not to mention removing them.
Climbing her way up on my lap, she answers, Yup! How come you waked up late today, Rainy? Lin-Lin came over to play but you were snoring, so she told stories. If you marry her, will she always be here? You should marry her Rainy, I like Lin-Lin.
Unfair. I can't say no to little Tali. I slept late last night, had a bit too much fun. Passing her a few carved wooden toys, she hums one of her made up tunes as we play. Glancing around the room, the bare walls confuse me, all the decorations missing. Did we get robbed? Sweetling, what happened to all the paintings and scrolls?
Mama took them down. Throwing her hands into the air, she narrowly avoids smacking me in the face with a wooden tiger. We're moving! Yay!
Yes we are little darling. Carrying out my breakfast, Alsantset puts down the food and lifts Tali out of my lap as she snatches away a bun. You let Rain eat now, go practice the Forms with your brother. You see how hard he's working? You can't cut corners.
Greasy comfort food, eggs and meatbuns with a delicious soup. I dig in as Lin sits down beside me, resting her head on my shoulder, a little clingier than normal. Mouth full, I ask, Moving huh? Is this place too small? Looking to expand the family?
No. Glancing at Charok, Alsantset clears her throat as they take a seat across from me, her hands folded. We are moving to the Bridge.
My jaw drops open, half-chewed food falling out. The Bridge? You're moving there now? With a few million Defiled hanging around outside, this really isn't the time to invest in real estate.
Lower your voice, you'll scare the children. With Papa promoted to second-in-command, he cannot leave, so Mama is moving there to be with him. The Marshal suggested it, in fact. While Nian Zu is still in power, he can protect us still, but once he retires Papa will be an island unto himself, without allies outside of Shen Huo. With his family around him, he will seem more relatable to the normal soldiers, who in the future, may become officers in power.
Bah... Politics. It's a smart move though, especially if more villagers move there too. The People are seen as outsiders because we don't live in a city, but if some of our warriors set roots at the Bridge, then it shows we're also citizens of the Empire.
Clapping her hands, Alsantset beams with joy. So clever, my little brother. Close to 100 families are moving, primarily warrior families and a few craftsmen. The villages will send supplies to aid the defense of the Bridge, which will raise our standing in the eyes of the citizens, and our increased exposure might earn us a few allies. Papa has assured me it will be safe, the Marshal set aside homes in the western section of the town with easy access to the mountain paths out of the city, our escape route should the worst come to pass.
Glancing outside the door, I can see Tali and Tate performing the Forms, taking the first steps on their path to future warriors. Their carefree days of playing in the village are coming to an end, soon to be replaced by an enclosed encampment, their toy animals traded in for bladed weapons, ribbons and bells for armour and helmets. You've thought this through. A shame, I love it here, but everyone needs to do their part and some sacrifices must be made. I only hope no one I love is part of those sacrifices.
I'm happy to hear you say that. A rectangular token slides across the table and I grab it without thinking. A wooden frame encompasses the jade plate, and embossed in bronze are four simple words, 'Warrant Officer Third Grade'.
... Oh no. No, no, no.
Blind to my internal panic attack, Alsantset cheerfully explains. Akanai held onto it until she was sure you were ready, but it is yours. A reward from Colonel General Nian Zu for your 'consummate display of skill in combat'. In reality, it is to protect you from the Society's retribution and to allow you to raise your reputation, which in turn will raise Papa's. The story of your victories have made it across the Empire by now, and we hope you will use your reputation to aid us.
...How?
As if on cue, Rustram hands me a sheaf of documents, sheepishly lowering his head. I know we aren't the most skilled warriors, but all 67 of our squad hope to be of service.
... what are you, stupid? I spent the last six months training you, you think I'd leave you here with your thumbs up your asses? I refuse any and all terms, I speak, you listen, I command, you obey. Simple as that.
Yes Officer Rain! Cheers fill the restaurant, their enthusiasm infectious. I'll never understand soldiers, how can they be so happy about going out to fight?
A slender pair of arms encircle my neck and Tursinai leans over my shoulder, whispering in my ear. Big Sister here is happy to serve under you. A coquettish wink sends my heart racing, and she cackles in delight. Hubby will be joining as well, Chief Provost's orders. We're to guard little Mila, but don't tell her that. I'll handle finding recruits for your retinue, you just tell me how many you need. There are plenty of young warriors who want to serve the 'Handsome and Undying Falling Rain'.
Mila and Lin each pinch me on the cheek as I watch Tursinai saunter away and Tenjin claps me heavily on the shoulder, squeezing a little harder than necessary. You know, she'd stop teasing you if you didn't blush so much. I look forward to fighting alongside you, little Rain. My father has said many good things about you, and he is a man of few words and less praise. As scary as he is, I feel better with him watching my back. Plus, he brings some pretty awesome firepower.
Huu approaches with a smile and a jug of wine, but I speak first. You don't need to ask, there is a place for you in my retinue. In fact, I'd feel much safer
standing behind you while we fight.
Grinning wolfishly, he shakes his head. I'm honoured, but it would not be proper for one Warrant Officer to serve beneath another. His eyes shoot down to his belt, where a token is displayed, a mirror of my own. I was promoted last week, same as you.
Giddy with laughter, I leap up and embrace him, thrilled at the news of a second Warrant Officer. Lifting a cup in celebration, we take turns praising one another and calling each other Officer, the jug emptied in a matter of minutes.
What can I say, misery loves company. At least this way, if I screw up, they have Huu as the backup hero to gain allies.
...
Wait...
... or am I the backup?
Ming's Death Poem.
A lonely raindrop, born of mother cloud
Falling from heavens high, to earth below
Rejected and forsaken, forging a solitary path
Until family found, lonely raindrop no more
Through time and trial, relations are lost
Returned to Mother cloud, again alone and destined
To seek a single drop, within infinite ocean
Within this endless cycle, of life and tribulation.
Chapter Meme
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Chapter 126
Roused by the piercing sunlight, the pain shakes me down to my core, an unintelligible groan escaping from my lips. Tugging at my blankets to cover me, I struggle against a heavy weight, contesting me for them. Eyes clenched shut, I muster all my strength and emerge victorious as the blanket flops over my face, disgustingly wet and slimy. Sputtering in disgust, I roll aside and bury my face in my pillow, groaning as my stomach churns.
Rainy, it's time to wake up, ya? Gently massaging my scalp with one hand, Lin places something down on the nightstand. I made you an herbal tea, drink up and get dressed, okay? Breakfast is waiting for you. Ignoring my groaned response, she leaves the room, humming softly as she closes the door behind her. Sinking back into sleep, an insidious thought worms its way into my mind.
Why is Lin waking me up in the morning? Oh no... why were the blankets wet?
What have I done?
Panic grips my heart as I bolt up and check the surroundings. Thankfully, it's my room and I'm fully dressed, still in the clothes I went to the festival with, stained with alcohol and blood, which worries me. Crashing back down in relief, my heart rate decreases back to normal levels. Turning to pet Auric, his eyes close with a rumbling purr as he suckles at my blankets, the source of the wet, disgusting patch. Some guard cat he turned out to be. His claws extend and retract as he kneads at my bed, continuing to slobber away, the little kitten unwilling to break the simultaneously adorable and disgusting habit.
Dressed and cleaned, I stumble out to the dining room, resting my head and hiding from the light. I shouldn't have drunk so much. Even with the ability to remove alcohol from my system, it doesn't keep me from getting hangovers. Plus, after a certain point, control over my chi gets wonky and I can't even sober up. It's a good thing I don't have training today, with everyone pitching in to help clean up.
Rainy, Rainy, Rainy. A light tug on my elbow draws my attention, and Little Tali stares up at me with a smile before lowering her head to show me her ribbons, little bells jingling merrily. Look, Lin-Lin made them for me.
Gasping in feigned excitement, I praise the little munchkin. Ohthose ribbons are so pretty. Did you remember to thank Lin? Ribbons, why didn't I think of that? It's way easier than braiding the bells into her hair all the time, not to mention removing them.
Climbing her way up on my lap, she answers, Yup! How come you waked up late today, Rainy? Lin-Lin came over to play but you were snoring, so she told stories. If you marry her, will she always be here? You should marry her Rainy, I like Lin-Lin.
Unfair. I can't say no to little Tali. I slept late last night, had a bit too much fun. Passing her a few carved wooden toys, she hums one of her made up tunes as we play. Glancing around the room, the bare walls confuse me, all the decorations missing. Did we get robbed? Sweetling, what happened to all the paintings and scrolls?
Mama took them down. Throwing her hands into the air, she narrowly avoids smacking me in the face with a wooden tiger. We're moving! Yay!
Yes we are little darling. Carrying out my breakfast, Alsantset puts down the food and lifts Tali out of my lap as she snatches away a bun. You let Rain eat now, go practice the Forms with your brother. You see how hard he's working? You can't cut corners.
Greasy comfort food, eggs and meatbuns with a delicious soup. I dig in as Lin sits down beside me, resting her head on my shoulder, a little clingier than normal. Mouth full, I ask, Moving huh? Is this place too small? Looking to expand the family?
No. Glancing at Charok, Alsantset clears her throat as they take a seat across from me, her hands folded. We are moving to the Bridge.
My jaw drops open, half-chewed food falling out. The Bridge? You're moving there now? With a few million Defiled hanging around outside, this really isn't the time to invest in real estate.
Lower your voice, you'll scare the children. With Papa promoted to second-in-command, he cannot leave, so Mama is moving there to be with him. The Marshal suggested it, in fact. While Nian Zu is still in power, he can protect us still, but once he retires Papa will be an island unto himself, without allies outside of Shen Huo. With his family around him, he will seem more relatable to the normal soldiers, who in the future, may become officers in power.
Bah... Politics. It's a smart move though, especially if more villagers move there too. The People are seen as outsiders because we don't live in a city, but if some of our warriors set roots at the Bridge, then it shows we're also citizens of the Empire.
Clapping her hands, Alsantset beams with joy. So clever, my little brother. Close to 100 families are moving, primarily warrior families and a few craftsmen. The villages will send supplies to aid the defense of the Bridge, which will raise our standing in the eyes of the citizens, and our increased exposure might earn us a few allies. Papa has assured me it will be safe, the Marshal set aside homes in the western section of the town with easy access to the mountain paths out of the city, our escape route should the worst come to pass.
Glancing outside the door, I can see Tali and Tate performing the Forms, taking the first steps on their path to future warriors. Their carefree days of playing in the village are coming to an end, soon to be replaced by an enclosed encampment, their toy animals traded in for bladed weapons, ribbons and bells for armour and helmets. You've thought this through. A shame, I love it here, but everyone needs to do their part and some sacrifices must be made. I only hope no one I love is part of those sacrifices.
I'm happy to hear you say that. A rectangular token slides across the table and I grab it without thinking. A wooden frame encompasses the jade plate, and embossed in bronze are four simple words, 'Warrant Officer Third Grade'.
... Oh no. No, no, no.
Blind to my internal panic attack, Alsantset cheerfully explains. Akanai held onto it until she was sure you were ready, but it is yours. A reward from Colonel General Nian Zu for your 'consummate display of skill in combat'. In reality, it is to protect you from the Society's retribution and to allow you to raise your reputation, which in turn will raise Papa's. The story of your victories have made it across the Empire by now, and we hope you will use your reputation to aid us.
...How?
As if on cue, Rustram hands me a sheaf of documents, sheepishly lowering his head. I know we aren't the most skilled warriors, but all 67 of our squad hope to be of service.
... what are you, stupid? I spent the last six months training you, you think I'd leave you here with your thumbs up your asses? I refuse any and all terms, I speak, you listen, I command, you obey. Simple as that.
Yes Officer Rain! Cheers fill the restaurant, their enthusiasm infectious. I'll never understand soldiers, how can they be so happy about going out to fight?
A slender pair of arms encircle my neck and Tursinai leans over my shoulder, whispering in my ear. Big Sister here is happy to serve under you. A coquettish wink sends my heart racing, and she cackles in delight. Hubby will be joining as well, Chief Provost's orders. We're to guard little Mila, but don't tell her that. I'll handle finding recruits for your retinue, you just tell me how many you need. There are plenty of young warriors who want to serve the 'Handsome and Undying Falling Rain'.
Mila and Lin each pinch me on the cheek as I watch Tursinai saunter away and Tenjin claps me heavily on the shoulder, squeezing a little harder than necessary. You know, she'd stop teasing you if you didn't blush so much. I look forward to fighting alongside you, little Rain. My father has said many good things about you, and he is a man of few words and less praise. As scary as he is, I feel better with him watching my back. Plus, he brings some pretty awesome firepower.
Huu approaches with a smile and a jug of wine, but I speak first. You don't need to ask, there is a place for you in my retinue. In fact, I'd feel much safer
standing behind you while we fight.
Grinning wolfishly, he shakes his head. I'm honoured, but it would not be proper for one Warrant Officer to serve beneath another. His eyes shoot down to his belt, where a token is displayed, a mirror of my own. I was promoted last week, same as you.
Giddy with laughter, I leap up and embrace him, thrilled at the news of a second Warrant Officer. Lifting a cup in celebration, we take turns praising one another and calling each other Officer, the jug emptied in a matter of minutes.
What can I say, misery loves company. At least this way, if I screw up, they have Huu as the backup hero to gain allies.
...
Wait...
... or am I the backup?
Ming's Death Poem.
A lonely raindrop, born of mother cloud
Falling from heavens high, to earth below
Rejected and forsaken, forging a solitary path
Until family found, lonely raindrop no more
Through time and trial, relations are lost
Returned to Mother cloud, again alone and destined
To seek a single drop, within infinite ocean
Within this endless cycle, of life and tribulation.
Chapter Meme
Chapter 126Roused by the piercing sunlight, the pain shakes me down to my core, an unintelligible groan escaping from my lips. Tugging at my blankets to cover me, I struggle against a heavy weight, contesting me for them. Eyes clenched shut, I muster all my strength and emerge victorious as the blanket flops over my face, disgustingly wet and slimy. Sputtering in disgust, I roll aside and bury my face in my pillow, groaning as my stomach churns.Rainy, it's time to wake up, ya? Gently massaging my scalp with one hand, Lin places something down on the nightstand. I made you an herbal tea, drink up and get dressed, okay? Breakfast is waiting for you. Ignoring my groaned response, she leaves the room, humming softly as she closes the door behind her. Sinking back into sleep, an insidious thought worms its way into my mind.Why is Lin waking me up in the morning? Oh no... why were the blankets wet?What have I done?Panic grips my heart as I bolt up and check the surroundings. Thankfully, it's my room and I'm fully dressed, still in the clothes I went to the festival with, stained with alcohol and blood, which worries me. Crashing back down in relief, my heart rate decreases back to normal levels. Turning to pet Auric, his eyes close with a rumbling purr as he suckles at my blankets, the source of the wet, disgusting patch. Some guard cat he turned out to be. His claws extend and retract as he kneads at my bed, continuing to slobber away, the little kitten unwilling to break the simultaneously adorable and disgusting habit.Dressed and cleaned, I stumble out to the dining room, resting my head and hiding from the light. I shouldn't have drunk so much. Even with the ability to remove alcohol from my system, it doesn't keep me from getting hangovers. Plus, after a certain point, control over my chi gets wonky and I can't even sober up. It's a good thing I don't have training today, with everyone pitching in to help clean up.Rainy, Rainy, Rainy. A light tug on my elbow draws my attention, and Little Tali stares up at me with a smile before lowering her head to show me her ribbons, little bells jingling merrily. Look, Lin-Lin made them for me.Gasping in feigned excitement, I praise the little munchkin. Ohthose ribbons are so pretty. Did you remember to thank Lin? Ribbons, why didn't I think of that? It's way easier than braiding the bells into her hair all the time, not to mention removing them.Climbing her way up on my lap, she answers, Yup! How come you waked up late today, Rainy? Lin-Lin came over to play but you were snoring, so she told stories. If you marry her, will she always be here? You should marry her Rainy, I like Lin-Lin.Unfair. I can't say no to little Tali. I slept late last night, had a bit too much fun. Passing her a few carved wooden toys, she hums one of her made up tunes as we play. Glancing around the room, the bare walls confuse me, all the decorations missing. Did we get robbed? Sweetling, what happened to all the paintings and scrolls?Mama took them down. Throwing her hands into the air, she narrowly avoids smacking me in the face with a wooden tiger. We're moving! Yay!Yes we are little darling. Carrying out my breakfast, Alsantset puts down the food and lifts Tali out of my lap as she snatches away a bun. You let Rain eat now, go practice the Forms with your brother. You see how hard he's working? You can't cut corners.Greasy comfort food, eggs and meatbuns with a delicious soup. I dig in as Lin sits down beside me, resting her head on my shoulder, a little clingier than normal. Mouth full, I ask, Moving huh? Is this place too small? Looking to expand the family?No. Glancing at Charok, Alsantset clears her throat as they take a seat across from me, her hands folded. We are moving to the Bridge.My jaw drops open, half-chewed food falling out. The Bridge? You're moving there now? With a few million Defiled hanging around outside, this really isn't the time to invest in real estate.Lower your voice, you'll scare the children. With Papa promoted to second-in-command, he cannot leave, so Mama is moving there to be with him. The Marshal suggested it, in fact. While Nian Zu is still in power, he can protect us still, but once he retires Papa will be an island unto himself, without allies outside of Shen Huo. With his family around him, he will seem more relatable to the normal soldiers, who in the future, may become officers in power.Bah... Politics. It's a smart move though, especially if more villagers move there too. The People are seen as outsiders because we don't live in a city, but if some of our warriors set roots at the Bridge, then it shows we're also citizens of the Empire.Clapping her hands, Alsantset beams with joy. So clever, my little brother. Close to 100 families are moving, primarily warrior families and a few craftsmen. The villages will send supplies to aid the defense of the Bridge, which will raise our standing in the eyes of the citizens, and our increased exposure might earn us a few allies. Papa has assured me it will be safe, the Marshal set aside homes in the western section of the town with easy access to the mountain paths out of the city, our escape route should the worst come to pass.Glancing outside the door, I can see Tali and Tate performing the Forms, taking the first steps on their path to future warriors. Their carefree days of playing in the village are coming to an end, soon to be replaced by an enclosed encampment, their toy animals traded in for bladed weapons, ribbons and bells for armour and helmets. You've thought this through. A shame, I love it here, but everyone needs to do their part and some sacrifices must be made. I only hope no one I love is part of those sacrifices.I'm happy to hear you say that. A rectangular token slides across the table and I grab it without thinking. A wooden frame encompasses the jade plate, and embossed in bronze are four simple words, 'Warrant Officer Third Grade'.... Oh no. No, no, no.Blind to my internal panic attack, Alsantset cheerfully explains. Akanai held onto it until she was sure you were ready, but it is yours. A reward from Colonel General Nian Zu for your 'consummate display of skill in combat'. In reality, it is to protect you from the Society's retribution and to allow you to raise your reputation, which in turn will raise Papa's. The story of your victories have made it across the Empire by now, and we hope you will use your reputation to aid us....How?As if on cue, Rustram hands me a sheaf of documents, sheepishly lowering his head. I know we aren't the most skilled warriors, but all 67 of our squad hope to be of service.... what are you, stupid? I spent the last six months training you, you think I'd leave you here with your thumbs up your asses? I refuse any and all terms, I speak, you listen, I command, you obey. Simple as that.Yes Officer Rain! Cheers fill the restaurant, their enthusiasm infectious. I'll never understand soldiers, how can they be so happy about going out to fight?A slender pair of arms encircle my neck and Tursinai leans over my shoulder, whispering in my ear. Big Sister here is happy to serve under you. A coquettish wink sends my heart racing, and she cackles in delight. Hubby will be joining as well, Chief Provost's orders. We're to guard little Mila, but don't tell her that. I'll handle finding recruits for your retinue, you just tell me how many you need. There are plenty of young warriors who want to serve the 'Handsome and Undying Falling Rain'.Mila and Lin each pinch me on the cheek as I watch Tursinai saunter away and Tenjin claps me heavily on the shoulder, squeezing a little harder than necessary. You know, she'd stop teasing you if you didn't blush so much. I look forward to fighting alongside you, little Rain. My father has said many good things about you, and he is a man of few words and less praise. As scary as he is, I feel better with him watching my back. Plus, he brings some pretty awesome firepower.Huu approaches with a smile and a jug of wine, but I speak first. You don't need to ask, there is a place for you in my retinue. In fact, I'd feel much saferstanding behind you while we fight.Grinning wolfishly, he shakes his head. I'm honoured, but it would not be proper for one Warrant Officer to serve beneath another. His eyes shoot down to his belt, where a token is displayed, a mirror of my own. I was promoted last week, same as you.Giddy with laughter, I leap up and embrace him, thrilled at the news of a second Warrant Officer. Lifting a cup in celebration, we take turns praising one another and calling each other Officer, the jug emptied in a matter of minutes.What can I say, misery loves company. At least this way, if I screw up, they have Huu as the backup hero to gain allies....Wait...... or am I the backup?Ming's Death Poem.A lonely raindrop, born of mother cloudFalling from heavens high, to earth belowRejected and forsaken, forging a solitary pathUntil family found, lonely raindrop no moreThrough time and trial, relations are lostReturned to Mother cloud, again alone and destinedTo seek a single drop, within infinite oceanWithin this endless cycle, of life and tribulation.Chapter Meme
