Chapter 395
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Chapter 395
Early morning summons are the worst. No one ever wakes up and calls for a meeting because they have good news to share. Thats not how it works. Meetings at the crack of dawn are reserved for those difficult decisions made after a long, sleepless night, when you want to get whatever it is over and done with so you can go about the rest of your day. Thus, I was none too pleased to find the Legates Seneschal waiting outside my yurt in the early morning gloom, and even less pleased to kneel and accept an official summons from the Legate while holding a pan of turtle poop. There are no more easy smiles or friendly pats from the immaculately dressed senior, his eyes cold and lips pursed as he invites himself inside to rummage through my wardrobe. While he searches for what he deems as appropriate attire and mumbles what I can only assume are uncomplimentary remarks beneath his breath, I casually bring Mama Bun and Pong Pong out of the yurt and place them into the enclosure, hoping the Seneschal overlooks my tiny turtle friend.
Everyone says Pong Pong is indistinguishable from a regular turtle, but they also cant explain how the Legate sees my Natal Palace, so better play it safe and keep him away from Imperial eyes.
After making arrangements for the rest of my pets, I put on the clothes picked out by the Seneschal, which is the same outfit I wore during my wedding banquet, albeit with a new pair of pants since the old ones were covered in blood. The black, high-collared shirt is one of the nicest shirts I own and perfectly compliments the new gold and black bindings Mila wrapped around Peaces hilt, though the Seneschal seems wholly displeased by my lack of fancy robes and hair ornaments. Audibly sucking his teeth as I slip into my boots, he ignores my confused look and gestures for me to hurry. The moment Im dressed, he motions for me to grab my weapons before rushing us out the door and into a waiting palanquin, barking orders for the Death Corps to double time it to the palace.
Oh no... am I being summoned for an early morning duel to the death? Cant I at least have a last meal?
Wishing Akanai and Baatar were around to pull my ass out of the fire, I peek out the curtains and take solace in Ping-Pings presence and knowing Guan Suo wont be far behind. While hes not as dependable as family, his gruff tsundere act has grown on me during our time together, and I think Ive grown on him. Besides, hes an ocean-exploding bad-ass with balls big enough to sit at a table of Divinities, which makes him awesome. If theres anyone in Nan Ping strong enough to give the Legate pause, Guan Suo sits high on the list, not to mention Ping Pings beloved status as a Divine Guardian.
Which is why its so disheartening when the Seneschal specifically orders Guan Suo, Ping Ping, and my Death Corps Guards to remain behind while I head inside for my meeting with the Legate.
After bidding them both a fond farewell, in which Ping-Ping pouts and Guan Suo (hopefully) feigns indifference, I follow the Seneschal up the carpeted stairs and into the palace proper. After a long, circuitous route through the beautiful marble hallways, the Seneschal brings me into a small, but opulent dining room, where he instructs me to remain standing and wait before disappearing through a side door. Wondering how many different rooms the Legate stays in, I study my surroundings to keep my mind off my possibly impending doom. An exquisite, wooden square table for two sits in the centre of the room, its polished red surface and elegant, carved edges making it more work of art than simple furniture. Two equally impressive wooden chairs are positioned across from one another on the left and right sides of the room respectively, and laid out before each are a pair of ivory chopsticks, a white-jade bowl, and an alabaster porcelain teacup. The back wall is adorned with two calligraphy scrolls on either side of a painting, the One Hundred Horses Yuzhen gifted the Legate with no less. In front of it stands the jade rooster I sent him, though the calligraphy scrolls are unfamiliar, but beautifully written. Each bears a popular idiom in stylish, flowing script, the left one reading, Topple Mountains; Overturn Seas, and the right, Rebuke Heaven and Earth.
The Legates propensity for inspirational posters amuses me. I bet hed love a hang in there kitty poster.
Wishing I were instead having a nice, relaxing swim through the terrifying depths of the Azure Sea, I keep both hands firmly clenched around Unity and hold it perfectly upright, worried my attention will slip or my new hand will cramp and Ill accidentally drop it on a priceless work of art. Honestly, if Id known the Legate loved art so much, Id have given him an entire wagon of sculptures instead of one jade rooster. Hell, I only picked the rooster because I was miffed about the whole apology thing and my drunk brain found it funny because its a jade cock, but Ill never admit it out loud. Glad he likes it, though I doubt its enough to sway his mind.
Breathe, buddy. Just breathe. If the Legate wants you dead, this is hardly the way hed go about it. Its been two weeks and youre still alive, which is good news, right?
The minutes pass and I become acutely aware I had no chance to use the bathroom become coming here. Whats the protocol on slipping out for a bio break? I doubt the Legate will be pleased if he shows up and Im not here, so Ive no choice but to hold it. Oh gods, now I have to poop too. Why body? Why are you doing this to me? I passed multiple giant vases on the way here, maybe I can duck out and -
The side door opens and the Seneschal returns, soon followed by the Legate himself. Dressed in a casual red and gold robe, he takes his seat as I remember my manners and fall to my knees. Imperial Consort greets Imperial Legate, I utter, having been coached briefly by Luo-Luo on the basics of etiquette. Head bowed, eyes down, dont look up until he says you can rise, and even then, dont look directly at him or hold your head high. Seriously, the amount of subservience expected of us is ridiculous, but everyone in the world seems to think its appropriate, as if Imperial Scions are inherently better than the rest of humanity because of their lineage.
Ill never understand this reverence for nobility, but I dont understand a lot of things, so its not exactly new.
Long seconds pass before the Legate says, Rise. Like the Seneschal, the Legate is all business today, wearing the ghost of a scowl as he directs me to the chair across from him. Hands folded atop the table, he waits in stoic silence as I take my seat, belatedly wondering what Im supposed to do with Unity. Do people hold onto their massive polearms while eating? No dont be silly, I should put it down, but where and how? On the floor, pointed away from the Legate? Maybe, but wont it get in the way of the servants? I could lay it across my knees I suppose, but with how the chair and table are built, it means Id have to sit on the edge of my seat and at arms length from the table, which seems rude. Overhead hangs a massive, wooden candelabra, which means cradling Unity upright is also out of the question, and probably dangerous since it could easily slip and brain the Legate or worse. Eventually, I conclude my only option is to get up and leave Unity by the door, though it takes longer than Id like to admit to make sure it wont slide down and break anything of value.
Not a great start.
Very slowly. Glacial even, but its still progress.
Once the three of us are alone again, the Legate resumes our conversation with a question. Tell me, why do you think I havent killed you?
Oh fun. Morale, I suppose, or perhaps youve had more important matters to deal with, like the Treaty and whatnot. I havent given it too much thought. I sorta accepted it and carried on. I like to think its a part of Baledaghs legacy, because he always had the strength to move forward regardless of the odds. Despite being burdened with all my flaws, Baledagh also had many admirable qualities about him. Daring, determined, and ruthless, he was the person I wanted to become, the person I thought best equipped to survive life in this new and terrifying world.
Baledagh alone wasnt enough, but maybe if I keep the best from both of us, I can become someone better, the best person I can be.
Not even close. Proud and aloof, the Legates gaze no longer lingers on me, his apathy so clear its almost hurtful. You live because you may still be of value. Though you refuse to work with me, you can still be used to my advantage. So long as my enemies believe you are my pawn, they will waste their efforts trying to turn you, and in doing so, will expose their hand. Not only will your continued existence conceal my actions, I will also benefit from your actions. In the eyes of the world, your successes will be my successes, and should you fail, then I lose nothing by cutting all ties and leaving you to the mercy of my enemies.
I think this is all meant to scare me, but I dont know who his enemies are or what his goal is, so honestly, its all white noise and static. Resisting the urge to shrug, I ask, Why are you telling me all this?
Because, he says, with a self-satisfied grin, I expect your aid in carrying out this deception. He doesnt bother adding or else, but its implied. Assuming your final answer is to my liking. Noticing my confusion, his eyebrow rises as he clarifies, You care nothing for Imperial Secrets. Why?
Oh. This ones the easiest to answer, because theres nothing to hide. I pursue strength so I may remain free, free from conflict, free from strife, free from worry, just... free. The Martial Dao is merely a means to an end, so you see why I refuse to trade my freedom for more strength.
Taken aback by my answer, the Legate studies my expression for long seconds, and I do my best not to squirm. With a look almost approaching pity, he shakes his head and speaks softly. I almost admire your foolish simplicity, Falling Rain. The freedom you seek does not exist, not for men like you or I. Service to a person, service to a cause, or service to your conscience, in the end, you are bound by circumstances beyond your control. You wish for true freedom, power enough to remain unfettered from all conflict or struggle? Not even the Emperor could grant you this request, for youll soon find that the more power you amass, the more fetters you accrue. There will always be a person, a cause, or a principle which you will serve, even if you think its of your own volition. Dismissing me with a wave of his hand, he waits until Im at the door to add, I have a soft spot for dreamers, so my offer remains, though for how long I cannot say. Think on it, but not too long.
After escorting me back to Ping-Ping, the Seneschal hands me a scroll with an Imperial seal, eschewing all the ceremony which usually goes with it. I urge you to accept my young masters offer. While its possible to find yourself a more benevolent master, no person alive will make for a more fearsome foe. On that ominous note, the Seneschal holds open the drapes to my palanquin and I get in to leave, still reeling from the events of today. Logically, the best choice is to ally myself with the Legate, because Im already suffering all the drawbacks and reaping none of the rewards, which is probably what he meant to highlight regardless.
Ugh. Its too early for decisions like this.
Breaking the wax seal, I unfurl the scroll to read my orders and almost cheer with relief.
Finally. Deployment orders.
Enough politics. Its time for war.
Chapter Meme
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Chapter 395
Early morning summons are the worst. No one ever wakes up and calls for a meeting because they have good news to share. Thats not how it works. Meetings at the crack of dawn are reserved for those difficult decisions made after a long, sleepless night, when you want to get whatever it is over and done with so you can go about the rest of your day. Thus, I was none too pleased to find the Legates Seneschal waiting outside my yurt in the early morning gloom, and even less pleased to kneel and accept an official summons from the Legate while holding a pan of turtle poop. There are no more easy smiles or friendly pats from the immaculately dressed senior, his eyes cold and lips pursed as he invites himself inside to rummage through my wardrobe. While he searches for what he deems as appropriate attire and mumbles what I can only assume are uncomplimentary remarks beneath his breath, I casually bring Mama Bun and Pong Pong out of the yurt and place them into the enclosure, hoping the Seneschal overlooks my tiny turtle friend.
Everyone says Pong Pong is indistinguishable from a regular turtle, but they also cant explain how the Legate sees my Natal Palace, so better play it safe and keep him away from Imperial eyes.
After making arrangements for the rest of my pets, I put on the clothes picked out by the Seneschal, which is the same outfit I wore during my wedding banquet, albeit with a new pair of pants since the old ones were covered in blood. The black, high-collared shirt is one of the nicest shirts I own and perfectly compliments the new gold and black bindings Mila wrapped around Peaces hilt, though the Seneschal seems wholly displeased by my lack of fancy robes and hair ornaments. Audibly sucking his teeth as I slip into my boots, he ignores my confused look and gestures for me to hurry. The moment Im dressed, he motions for me to grab my weapons before rushing us out the door and into a waiting palanquin, barking orders for the Death Corps to double time it to the palace.
Oh no... am I being summoned for an early morning duel to the death? Cant I at least have a last meal?
Wishing Akanai and Baatar were around to pull my ass out of the fire, I peek out the curtains and take solace in Ping-Pings presence and knowing Guan Suo wont be far behind. While hes not as dependable as family, his gruff tsundere act has grown on me during our time together, and I think Ive grown on him. Besides, hes an ocean-exploding bad-ass with balls big enough to sit at a table of Divinities, which makes him awesome. If theres anyone in Nan Ping strong enough to give the Legate pause, Guan Suo sits high on the list, not to mention Ping Pings beloved status as a Divine Guardian.
Which is why its so disheartening when the Seneschal specifically orders Guan Suo, Ping Ping, and my Death Corps Guards to remain behind while I head inside for my meeting with the Legate.
After bidding them both a fond farewell, in which Ping-Ping pouts and Guan Suo (hopefully) feigns indifference, I follow the Seneschal up the carpeted stairs and into the palace proper. After a long, circuitous route through the beautiful marble hallways, the Seneschal brings me into a small, but opulent dining room, where he instructs me to remain standing and wait before disappearing through a side door. Wondering how many different rooms the Legate stays in, I study my surroundings to keep my mind off my possibly impending doom. An exquisite, wooden square table for two sits in the centre of the room, its polished red surface and elegant, carved edges making it more work of art than simple furniture. Two equally impressive wooden chairs are positioned across from one another on the left and right sides of the room respectively, and laid out before each are a pair of ivory chopsticks, a white-jade bowl, and an alabaster porcelain teacup. The back wall is adorned with two calligraphy scrolls on either side of a painting, the One Hundred Horses Yuzhen gifted the Legate with no less. In front of it stands the jade rooster I sent him, though the calligraphy scrolls are unfamiliar, but beautifully written. Each bears a popular idiom in stylish, flowing script, the left one reading, Topple Mountains; Overturn Seas, and the right, Rebuke Heaven and Earth.
The Legates propensity for inspirational posters amuses me. I bet hed love a hang in there kitty poster.
Wishing I were instead having a nice, relaxing swim through the terrifying depths of the Azure Sea, I keep both hands firmly clenched around Unity and hold it perfectly upright, worried my attention will slip or my new hand will cramp and Ill accidentally drop it on a priceless work of art. Honestly, if Id known the Legate loved art so much, Id have given him an entire wagon of sculptures instead of one jade rooster. Hell, I only picked the rooster because I was miffed about the whole apology thing and my drunk brain found it funny because its a jade cock, but Ill never admit it out loud. Glad he likes it, though I doubt its enough to sway his mind.
Breathe, buddy. Just breathe. If the Legate wants you dead, this is hardly the way hed go about it. Its been two weeks and youre still alive, which is good news, right?
The minutes pass and I become acutely aware I had no chance to use the bathroom become coming here. Whats the protocol on slipping out for a bio break? I doubt the Legate will be pleased if he shows up and Im not here, so Ive no choice but to hold it. Oh gods, now I have to poop too. Why body? Why are you doing this to me? I passed multiple giant vases on the way here, maybe I can duck out and -
The side door opens and the Seneschal returns, soon followed by the Legate himself. Dressed in a casual red and gold robe, he takes his seat as I remember my manners and fall to my knees. Imperial Consort greets Imperial Legate, I utter, having been coached briefly by Luo-Luo on the basics of etiquette. Head bowed, eyes down, dont look up until he says you can rise, and even then, dont look directly at him or hold your head high. Seriously, the amount of subservience expected of us is ridiculous, but everyone in the world seems to think its appropriate, as if Imperial Scions are inherently better than the rest of humanity because of their lineage.
Ill never understand this reverence for nobility, but I dont understand a lot of things, so its not exactly new.
Long seconds pass before the Legate says, Rise. Like the Seneschal, the Legate is all business today, wearing the ghost of a scowl as he directs me to the chair across from him. Hands folded atop the table, he waits in stoic silence as I take my seat, belatedly wondering what Im supposed to do with Unity. Do people hold onto their massive polearms while eating? No dont be silly, I should put it down, but where and how? On the floor, pointed away from the Legate? Maybe, but wont it get in the way of the servants? I could lay it across my knees I suppose, but with how the chair and table are built, it means Id have to sit on the edge of my seat and at arms length from the table, which seems rude. Overhead hangs a massive, wooden candelabra, which means cradling Unity upright is also out of the question, and probably dangerous since it could easily slip and brain the Legate or worse. Eventually, I conclude my only option is to get up and leave Unity by the door, though it takes longer than Id like to admit to make sure it wont slide down and break anything of value.
Not a great start.
Very slowly. Glacial even, but its still progress.
Once the three of us are alone again, the Legate resumes our conversation with a question. Tell me, why do you think I havent killed you?
Oh fun. Morale, I suppose, or perhaps youve had more important matters to deal with, like the Treaty and whatnot. I havent given it too much thought. I sorta accepted it and carried on. I like to think its a part of Baledaghs legacy, because he always had the strength to move forward regardless of the odds. Despite being burdened with all my flaws, Baledagh also had many admirable qualities about him. Daring, determined, and ruthless, he was the person I wanted to become, the person I thought best equipped to survive life in this new and terrifying world.
Baledagh alone wasnt enough, but maybe if I keep the best from both of us, I can become someone better, the best person I can be.
Not even close. Proud and aloof, the Legates gaze no longer lingers on me, his apathy so clear its almost hurtful. You live because you may still be of value. Though you refuse to work with me, you can still be used to my advantage. So long as my enemies believe you are my pawn, they will waste their efforts trying to turn you, and in doing so, will expose their hand. Not only will your continued existence conceal my actions, I will also benefit from your actions. In the eyes of the world, your successes will be my successes, and should you fail, then I lose nothing by cutting all ties and leaving you to the mercy of my enemies.
I think this is all meant to scare me, but I dont know who his enemies are or what his goal is, so honestly, its all white noise and static. Resisting the urge to shrug, I ask, Why are you telling me all this?
Because, he says, with a self-satisfied grin, I expect your aid in carrying out this deception. He doesnt bother adding or else, but its implied. Assuming your final answer is to my liking. Noticing my confusion, his eyebrow rises as he clarifies, You care nothing for Imperial Secrets. Why?
Oh. This ones the easiest to answer, because theres nothing to hide. I pursue strength so I may remain free, free from conflict, free from strife, free from worry, just... free. The Martial Dao is merely a means to an end, so you see why I refuse to trade my freedom for more strength.
Taken aback by my answer, the Legate studies my expression for long seconds, and I do my best not to squirm. With a look almost approaching pity, he shakes his head and speaks softly. I almost admire your foolish simplicity, Falling Rain. The freedom you seek does not exist, not for men like you or I. Service to a person, service to a cause, or service to your conscience, in the end, you are bound by circumstances beyond your control. You wish for true freedom, power enough to remain unfettered from all conflict or struggle? Not even the Emperor could grant you this request, for youll soon find that the more power you amass, the more fetters you accrue. There will always be a person, a cause, or a principle which you will serve, even if you think its of your own volition. Dismissing me with a wave of his hand, he waits until Im at the door to add, I have a soft spot for dreamers, so my offer remains, though for how long I cannot say. Think on it, but not too long.
After escorting me back to Ping-Ping, the Seneschal hands me a scroll with an Imperial seal, eschewing all the ceremony which usually goes with it. I urge you to accept my young masters offer. While its possible to find yourself a more benevolent master, no person alive will make for a more fearsome foe. On that ominous note, the Seneschal holds open the drapes to my palanquin and I get in to leave, still reeling from the events of today. Logically, the best choice is to ally myself with the Legate, because Im already suffering all the drawbacks and reaping none of the rewards, which is probably what he meant to highlight regardless.
Ugh. Its too early for decisions like this.
Breaking the wax seal, I unfurl the scroll to read my orders and almost cheer with relief.
Finally. Deployment orders.
Enough politics. Its time for war.
Chapter Meme
Chapter 395Early morning summons are the worst. No one ever wakes up and calls for a meeting because they have good news to share. Thats not how it works. Meetings at the crack of dawn are reserved for those difficult decisions made after a long, sleepless night, when you want to get whatever it is over and done with so you can go about the rest of your day. Thus, I was none too pleased to find the Legates Seneschal waiting outside my yurt in the early morning gloom, and even less pleased to kneel and accept an official summons from the Legate while holding a pan of turtle poop. There are no more easy smiles or friendly pats from the immaculately dressed senior, his eyes cold and lips pursed as he invites himself inside to rummage through my wardrobe. While he searches for what he deems as appropriate attire and mumbles what I can only assume are uncomplimentary remarks beneath his breath, I casually bring Mama Bun and Pong Pong out of the yurt and place them into the enclosure, hoping the Seneschal overlooks my tiny turtle friend.Everyone says Pong Pong is indistinguishable from a regular turtle, but they also cant explain how the Legate sees my Natal Palace, so better play it safe and keep him away from Imperial eyes.After making arrangements for the rest of my pets, I put on the clothes picked out by the Seneschal, which is the same outfit I wore during my wedding banquet, albeit with a new pair of pants since the old ones were covered in blood. The black, high-collared shirt is one of the nicest shirts I own and perfectly compliments the new gold and black bindings Mila wrapped around Peaces hilt, though the Seneschal seems wholly displeased by my lack of fancy robes and hair ornaments. Audibly sucking his teeth as I slip into my boots, he ignores my confused look and gestures for me to hurry. The moment Im dressed, he motions for me to grab my weapons before rushing us out the door and into a waiting palanquin, barking orders for the Death Corps to double time it to the palace.Oh no... am I being summoned for an early morning duel to the death? Cant I at least have a last meal?Wishing Akanai and Baatar were around to pull my ass out of the fire, I peek out the curtains and take solace in Ping-Pings presence and knowing Guan Suo wont be far behind. While hes not as dependable as family, his gruff tsundere act has grown on me during our time together, and I think Ive grown on him. Besides, hes an ocean-exploding bad-ass with balls big enough to sit at a table of Divinities, which makes him awesome. If theres anyone in Nan Ping strong enough to give the Legate pause, Guan Suo sits high on the list, not to mention Ping Pings beloved status as a Divine Guardian.Which is why its so disheartening when the Seneschal specifically orders Guan Suo, Ping Ping, and my Death Corps Guards to remain behind while I head inside for my meeting with the Legate.After bidding them both a fond farewell, in which Ping-Ping pouts and Guan Suo hopefully feigns indifference, I follow the Seneschal up the carpeted stairs and into the palace proper. After a long, circuitous route through the beautiful marble hallways, the Seneschal brings me into a small, but opulent dining room, where he instructs me to remain standing and wait before disappearing through a side door. Wondering how many different rooms the Legate stays in, I study my surroundings to keep my mind off my possibly impending doom. An exquisite, wooden square table for two sits in the centre of the room, its polished red surface and elegant, carved edges making it more work of art than simple furniture. Two equally impressive wooden chairs are positioned across from one another on the left and right sides of the room respectively, and laid out before each are a pair of ivory chopsticks, a white-jade bowl, and an alabaster porcelain teacup. The back wall is adorned with two calligraphy scrolls on either side of a painting, the One Hundred Horses Yuzhen gifted the Legate with no less. In front of it stands the jade rooster I sent him, though the calligraphy scrolls are unfamiliar, but beautifully written. Each bears a popular idiom in stylish, flowing script, the left one reading, Topple Mountains; Overturn Seas, and the right, Rebuke Heaven and Earth.The Legates propensity for inspirational posters amuses me. I bet hed love a hang in there kitty poster.Wishing I were instead having a nice, relaxing swim through the terrifying depths of the Azure Sea, I keep both hands firmly clenched around Unity and hold it perfectly upright, worried my attention will slip or my new hand will cramp and Ill accidentally drop it on a priceless work of art. Honestly, if Id known the Legate loved art so much, Id have given him an entire wagon of sculptures instead of one jade rooster. Hell, I only picked the rooster because I was miffed about the whole apology thing and my drunk brain found it funny because its a jade cock, but Ill never admit it out loud. Glad he likes it, though I doubt its enough to sway his mind.Breathe, buddy. Just breathe. If the Legate wants you dead, this is hardly the way hed go about it. Its been two weeks and youre still alive, which is good news, right?The minutes pass and I become acutely aware I had no chance to use the bathroom become coming here. Whats the protocol on slipping out for a bio break? I doubt the Legate will be pleased if he shows up and Im not here, so Ive no choice but to hold it. Oh gods, now I have to poop too. Why body? Why are you doing this to me? I passed multiple giant vases on the way here, maybe I can duck out and -The side door opens and the Seneschal returns, soon followed by the Legate himself. Dressed in a casual red and gold robe, he takes his seat as I remember my manners and fall to my knees. Imperial Consort greets Imperial Legate, I utter, having been coached briefly by Luo-Luo on the basics of etiquette. Head bowed, eyes down, dont look up until he says you can rise, and even then, dont look directly at him or hold your head high. Seriously, the amount of subservience expected of us is ridiculous, but everyone in the world seems to think its appropriate, as if Imperial Scions are inherently better than the rest of humanity because of their lineage.Ill never understand this reverence for nobility, but I dont understand a lot of things, so its not exactly new.Long seconds pass before the Legate says, Rise. Like the Seneschal, the Legate is all business today, wearing the ghost of a scowl as he directs me to the chair across from him. Hands folded atop the table, he waits in stoic silence as I take my seat, belatedly wondering what Im supposed to do with Unity. Do people hold onto their massive polearms while eating? No dont be silly, I should put it down, but where and how? On the floor, pointed away from the Legate? Maybe, but wont it get in the way of the servants? I could lay it across my knees I suppose, but with how the chair and table are built, it means Id have to sit on the edge of my seat and at arms length from the table, which seems rude. Overhead hangs a massive, wooden candelabra, which means cradling Unity upright is also out of the question, and probably dangerous since it could easily slip and brain the Legate or worse. Eventually, I conclude my only option is to get up and leave Unity by the door, though it takes longer than Id like to admit to make sure it wont slide down and break anything of value.Not a great start.Very slowly. Glacial even, but its still progress.Once the three of us are alone again, the Legate resumes our conversation with a question. Tell me, why do you think I havent killed you?Oh fun. Morale, I suppose, or perhaps youve had more important matters to deal with, like the Treaty and whatnot. I havent given it too much thought. I sorta accepted it and carried on. I like to think its a part of Baledaghs legacy, because he always had the strength to move forward regardless of the odds. Despite being burdened with all my flaws, Baledagh also had many admirable qualities about him. Daring, determined, and ruthless, he was the person I wanted to become, the person I thought best equipped to survive life in this new and terrifying world.Baledagh alone wasnt enough, but maybe if I keep the best from both of us, I can become someone better, the best person I can be.Not even close. Proud and aloof, the Legates gaze no longer lingers on me, his apathy so clear its almost hurtful. You live because you may still be of value. Though you refuse to work with me, you can still be used to my advantage. So long as my enemies believe you are my pawn, they will waste their efforts trying to turn you, and in doing so, will expose their hand. Not only will your continued existence conceal my actions, I will also benefit from your actions. In the eyes of the world, your successes will be my successes, and should you fail, then I lose nothing by cutting all ties and leaving you to the mercy of my enemies.I think this is all meant to scare me, but I dont know who his enemies are or what his goal is, so honestly, its all white noise and static. Resisting the urge to shrug, I ask, Why are you telling me all this?Because, he says, with a self-satisfied grin, I expect your aid in carrying out this deception. He doesnt bother adding or else, but its implied. Assuming your final answer is to my liking. Noticing my confusion, his eyebrow rises as he clarifies, You care nothing for Imperial Secrets. Why?Oh. This ones the easiest to answer, because theres nothing to hide. I pursue strength so I may remain free, free from conflict, free from strife, free from worry, just... free. The Martial Dao is merely a means to an end, so you see why I refuse to trade my freedom for more strength.Taken aback by my answer, the Legate studies my expression for long seconds, and I do my best not to squirm. With a look almost approaching pity, he shakes his head and speaks softly. I almost admire your foolish simplicity, Falling Rain. The freedom you seek does not exist, not for men like you or I. Service to a person, service to a cause, or service to your conscience, in the end, you are bound by circumstances beyond your control. You wish for true freedom, power enough to remain unfettered from all conflict or struggle? Not even the Emperor could grant you this request, for youll soon find that the more power you amass, the more fetters you accrue. There will always be a person, a cause, or a principle which you will serve, even if you think its of your own volition. Dismissing me with a wave of his hand, he waits until Im at the door to add, I have a soft spot for dreamers, so my offer remains, though for how long I cannot say. Think on it, but not too long.After escorting me back to Ping-Ping, the Seneschal hands me a scroll with an Imperial seal, eschewing all the ceremony which usually goes with it. I urge you to accept my young masters offer. While its possible to find yourself a more benevolent master, no person alive will make for a more fearsome foe. On that ominous note, the Seneschal holds open the drapes to my palanquin and I get in to leave, still reeling from the events of today. Logically, the best choice is to ally myself with the Legate, because Im already suffering all the drawbacks and reaping none of the rewards, which is probably what he meant to highlight regardless.Ugh. Its too early for decisions like this.Breaking the wax seal, I unfurl the scroll to read my orders and almost cheer with relief.Finally. Deployment orders.Enough politics. Its time for war.Chapter Meme
