Chapter 495
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Chapter 495
In the wake of the Justicars judgment, Nian Zu expected the Bekhai to do what most would: accept the sentence, end the banquet, and gather their allies to discuss their next move. Instead, the reclusive mountain tribesmen surprised him yet again as Baatar and the rest of his family sat in stony silence, not even Sending to prepare for what would come next. A staunch warrior of limitless potential, Nian Zu saw much of his younger self in Baatar, a man who craved the thrill of battle and the heady rush of progress along the Martial Path, but such single-minded dedication came at a cost, and much like Nian Zu himself, Baatar was wholly indifferent to politics and intrigue, treating every problem as one to ignore or smash aside.
And from the looks of things, the half-wolf warrior saw the Disciplinary Corps as the latter, an impulse which if acted on, would amount to outright rebellion...
An hour ago, Nian Zu would have laughed at the thought of his patient, cunning, and strategic-minded second-in-command making a grossly incompetent decision like rebelling against the Empire without proper preparation, but every dragon has their reverse scale, and Falling Rain was Baatars. Were it not for Nian Zu physically restraining the man, Baatar might have upended the dining table and slaughtered the Justicars in plain sight when they announced his sons punishment, a move which would have played right into their foes hand.
A righteous warrior fears not the Enemy arranged against them, but must be all too wary of allies hiding daggers behind their backs. A lesson hard learned, but unlike Nian Zu, Baatar lacked a partner with a brilliant political mind to teach him how to play the game. Fortunately, while Baatar and Akanai were wholly indifferent to politics, Falling Rain proved himself a quick study, though a tad haughty and arrogant for Nian Zus tastes. After accepting his protection, the Bekhai princeling straightened up, turned to the Justicars, and said, If youre waiting for an invitation to join us, I fear hosting members of the Disciplinary Corps might be construed as offering a bribe, so in the interest of propriety, I ask that you remove yourselves if youve no other business here.
Even Nian Zu wouldnt treat a Justicar so harshly, not because he didnt dare, but because it wasnt worth the headache. While their strict Oaths prevented them from abusing their power, officials of the Disciplinary Corps were a fanatical bunch who represented the Emperors Justice in his stead, and there was nothing in their Oaths preventing them from investigating disrespectful individuals more thoroughly than others. Whats more, laws were dead, but people alive, and it was up to the individual Justicars to interpret the laws as they saw fit, such as in this very case with Dastan Zhandos. A prickly subject, sparing the life of a rebel who fought alongside Defiled, but the boy had displayed Purity and proven himself of sound mind, as had the other survivors of his retinue. In light of Dastan and Sahbs almost unprecedented accomplishment by Developing their Domains at the tender age of twenty-four, hindsight proved Marshal Chu Tongzus decision correct, but even still the Justicars overturned it and sentenced the two young Experts to death, a matter open to debate with no correct answer.
That said, this move of the Disciplinary Corps would not sit well with most nobles of the Empire, for it set a precedent in which they might find themselves drafted to the front lines should their slaves prove themselves too outstanding...
A fact Falling Rain made plain by stating it out loud, voicing his displeasure before the Enforcers were even out of sight. Seems Ive been training and treating my slaves too well, he said, shaking his head in feigned self-recrimination as the guests chuckled politely in reply. Such a grave sin, safeguarding the lives of my soldiers on the battlefield and ensuring their morale remains high during periods of rest. More chuckles this time, including a genuine one from Nian Zu, impressed by the boys quick thinking. It wouldnt hurt to remind everyone present of his exemplary wartime achievements, killing more Defiled and losing fewer soldiers than any other junior officer on the front lines, not to mention his unbroken record of consecutive days spent on the front lines. No matter. I was getting bored of sitting around in the Citadel all day, so a jaunt to the front lines will do wonders for my mood. Raising a cup to the crowd, he smiled as the guests raised their own and said, To all our guests tonight, this Imperial Consort offers his most humble and heartfelt apologies for ruining the nights festivities, and I shall drink a forfeit in contrition.
Clever to apologize to the guests first, elevating their importance at no cost to himself since guest-of-honour comrade Du was already firmly in his pocket. Even then, Rain didnt forget to apologize to comrade Du, and even offered a toast to Nian Zu as thanks. After three cups, the boys legs were already shaky, but he persevered and invited the guests to stay and make merry. Few took him up on the offer, though most stuck around to bid their hosts a polite farewell before beating a hasty retreat, neither cutting ties with the Bekhai nor committing themselves to confronting the Disciplinary Corps, for it was clear to everyone present that the Justicars were pushing a political agenda. Why else would they act in such a high-handed manner against a young Imperial Hero like Falling Rain, and over such a minor and almost inconsequential matter?
Even a lummox like Nian Zu could see that this meant another Imperial Scion was involved, one with deep ties to the Prime Ministers office to hold such influence over the Disciplinary Corps...
Though curious to know what Falling Rain did to provoke such a powerful foe, Baatar and Akanai were too busy seeing their guests out to explain matters in detail, and comrade Du in such a foul mood only the bravest of souls dared approach him. Well-versed in such matters, Ryo Dain sat at her godfathers side and bade his guests farewell in his stead, while his granddaughter Yan clung to his arm and spoke softly in an effort to raise his spirits. They were both good children and reminded Nian Zu of what couldve been if hed been more supportive of Du Yi and Yuzhen, but after what he went through to break ties with his own family, Nian Zu had not been eager to start a new one.
Or at least, he hadnt until recently, but it was far too late for regrets. While comrade Du adopted Yan as his granddaughter only two years past, Nian Zu lacked skin thick enough to ask Yuzhen if she wanted another father or go snatching up Bekhai orphans, not to mention how he had little to offer any prospective heir. His wealth was middling, his teachings mediocre, and his titles not hereditary, so the only thing he had to bequeath was a whole host of grudges just waiting to be unleashed. The writing on the wall was plain to see, Nian Zus time had come and gone, and the world knew it, which was why he sat here twiddling his thumbs while everyone rushed to pay their respects to the people sitting at this table who mattered.
Perhaps he could take a page from Falling Rain and rear a wildcat or three for companionship...
Everything changed when he turned a hundred years old at the beginning of this year, for he no longer stood first amongst his peers as the strongest Martial Warrior in the North, the one deciding warrior who could change the outcome of any trial or dispute he took part in. Instead, he had no idea how he might fare if matched against other century-old monsters, because even though he was confident of killing an Ancestral Beast in an ambush, he had no illusions of standing against even a half-step Divinity in single combat, or even someone far from it. Take comrade Du for instance, who put to rest the decades-old rumours of his infirmity after soundly defeating the married Exarchs Bralton and Erien in a bloodless sparring match, some two years ago when he visited the Northern Bridge. While Nian Zu could defeat the formidable pair in an open match, he wasnt so arrogant as to believe he could do it without injuring anyone like comrade Du had. Killing was easy, surviving difficult, and defeating your foes without bloodshed the most difficult feat of all, one comrade Du pulled off with relative ease, according to Bralton himself.
And now, Du Min Gyu, this monster in human skin counted as one of Nian Zus peers, not to mention all the centuries-old hidden dragons of the Empire like Akanai and her husband, Husolt. At less than eighty years of age, Baatar was already strong enough to match Nian Zu, so how strong would his respected Mentor be?
With time and attention to spare, he ceased lamenting about old age and paid close attention to how the Bekhais guests behaved, for the differences were telling. First to leave were the sycophants and merchants, rushing off to protect their own asses lest the eyes of the Disciplinary Corps turn their way, followed by the ladder-climbing parasites who attached themselves to the Bekhai in hopes of riding their coat-tails to success. Next to leave were those friends-written-rivals, the powerful factions who saw the Bekhai as a threat, but had yet to decide between clash or compromise. They stayed not to show support, but so that they might needle their would-be opponents or learn something of interest, but as a whole, the Bekhai were tight-lipped regarding the reason behind the Justicars abnormal behaviour. Falling Rain spoke more than necessary and less carefully than he should, but aside from making light of his sentence and professing a longing to return to the front lines, he said little else regarding the matter of his hearing.
Of all the half-witted, short-sighted, mule-headed reasons to rebel, this one had to be the worst. Or best, depending on how one looked at it. Fighting over a woman, truly the downfall of many great men. ...I hate to be callous, but is giving her up not an option?
Of course it is. This time, it was Sarnai who spoke up, while the consort in question withered away in fright. But Rain asked if she wanted to leave with the fop and she said no. Since that is the case, then the girl stays, end of discussion. Jixing does not seem like a man accustomed to disappointment, but I look forward to teaching him a sound lesson on the subject matter.
Thankfully, Ouyang Yuhuan saved him the trouble of pushing the issue and voiced his thoughts for him. All this for an Imperial Servant. Is it truly worth it?
She is not just an Imperial Servant, Sarnai replied, her glare brooking no argument. Zheng Luo is my sons consort and my first daughter-in-law. She is of the Bekhai, her children will be of the Bekhai, her grandchildren will be of the Bekhai, and we will fight to the death to keep her safe.
...Stubborn and incomprehensible, but honourable and steadfast.
In the face of Bekhai integrity and Zheng Luos teary joy, Nian Zu could do naught but accept things as they were. Luckily, this was merely a spat between the younger generation and nothing more serious, which meant it should be a simple enough affair to protect Rain from Imperial machinations. With the Legate overseeing battlefield command and Yuzhen handling logistics, all Nian Zu needed to do was keep an eye on their allies and ensure Rain wasnt placed in harms way. How difficult could it be?
Though he didnt hear the courtyard doors burst open, he felt the gust of wind which accompanied it and he turned to face the possible threat. Marching in at the head of his former retinue, Dastan Zhandos strode forth with weapon drawn and expression grim, pushing Nian Zu and everyone else in his way to stand before Rain. Dropping to their knees, the dozen or so rebels from Sanshu presented their weapons to Rain hilt first. Our lives are yours, they said as one, their voices determined and unwavering, each one unable to outright ask Rain to kill them due to their Oaths, yet proving their fealty and dedication through their actions.
How Falling Rain could be so beloved by his people yet so antagonistic to outsiders was a mystery to be sure, but seeing the fervent devotion in the eyes of these convicted traitors proved Rains worth, for few officers could inspire such feelings in the soldiers under their command, much less slave soldiers who once sided with the Defiled.
However, in response to this touching display, the boy groaned and rolled his eyes. Dont be fucking stupid. What would killing you accomplish? Taken aback by the admonishment, Dastan was not alone in his confusion, as Nian Zu and everyone else present save Yuzhen and Zheng Luo turned to Rain for clarification. Doing a poor job of hiding his disdain for their ignorance, Rain explained, Killing them does nothing. Sure I wont have to go to the front lines anymore, but Jixing will just find another excuse. He dropped all other charges, which means putting me on the front lines was his end goal, and since the Legate allowed it, Im certain he wants the same thing, albeit for different reasons. Why else would he assign Brother Biao to my Honour Guard? I dont need a Peak Expert to guard me if Im sitting safe in the citadel, so like it or not, this is happening, and Id prefer it if my Domain-wielding friend were alive to watch my back. Shrugging, he added, Besides, doesnt the Emperor favour young talents? Dastan and Sahb are slaves and rebels, but theyre still ridiculously talented, so killing them wont just look cowardly, we might even be punished for it.
...Ordinarily, Nian Zu would have lambasted anyone who dared call him fucking stupid, but considering hed been ready to end Dastans life himself, the criticism was quite valid.
Swatting Dastans axe handle aside, Rain scowled and said, You done kneeling and being dramatic yet? Im headed to the front lines tomorrow, with only you guys, my Honour Guard, and Nian Zu to protect me, so you should probably get some rest and let me do the same. Holding a hand up to forestall all arguments, he turned to his three betrotheds and said, No, none of you are coming with me. Turning to the half-cat girl, he added, Well... except Song, because she has to... Sorry. No Khishig guardians either, so Jochi and Argat can stay here. Well need people to guard Song though. Yes, even you have to stay Grandpa Du, what will you do if they get their hands on... whats his name. You know... Kais kid. Anyways, anyone who comes along will just become a target to exploit, and the fewer options we leave Jixing, the easier itll be to guess his next move. Turning to Zheng Luo, he asked, How goes the whole forgery thing? And I was thinking...
It was an incredible thing to watch, this young, crippled hero taking charge in a courtyard filled with no less than four General officers and multiple Peak Experts and Experts, but in Nian Zus eyes, it seemed oddly fitting. Even if the boy never regained his Martial Strength, his mind was still sound, and he could learn to be much like Du Yi once was, a brilliant and devious strategist who played his enemies against each other and always came out on top.
...Granted, Rain wasnt quite so brilliant and nowhere near as devious, but he had plenty of time to learn with Nian Zu, the Hero of the Northern Wall, standing by to protect him.
What else was an irrelevant old man to do if not make way for the future?
Chapter Meme
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Chapter 495
In the wake of the Justicars judgment, Nian Zu expected the Bekhai to do what most would: accept the sentence, end the banquet, and gather their allies to discuss their next move. Instead, the reclusive mountain tribesmen surprised him yet again as Baatar and the rest of his family sat in stony silence, not even Sending to prepare for what would come next. A staunch warrior of limitless potential, Nian Zu saw much of his younger self in Baatar, a man who craved the thrill of battle and the heady rush of progress along the Martial Path, but such single-minded dedication came at a cost, and much like Nian Zu himself, Baatar was wholly indifferent to politics and intrigue, treating every problem as one to ignore or smash aside.
And from the looks of things, the half-wolf warrior saw the Disciplinary Corps as the latter, an impulse which if acted on, would amount to outright rebellion...
An hour ago, Nian Zu would have laughed at the thought of his patient, cunning, and strategic-minded second-in-command making a grossly incompetent decision like rebelling against the Empire without proper preparation, but every dragon has their reverse scale, and Falling Rain was Baatars. Were it not for Nian Zu physically restraining the man, Baatar might have upended the dining table and slaughtered the Justicars in plain sight when they announced his sons punishment, a move which would have played right into their foes hand.
A righteous warrior fears not the Enemy arranged against them, but must be all too wary of allies hiding daggers behind their backs. A lesson hard learned, but unlike Nian Zu, Baatar lacked a partner with a brilliant political mind to teach him how to play the game. Fortunately, while Baatar and Akanai were wholly indifferent to politics, Falling Rain proved himself a quick study, though a tad haughty and arrogant for Nian Zus tastes. After accepting his protection, the Bekhai princeling straightened up, turned to the Justicars, and said, If youre waiting for an invitation to join us, I fear hosting members of the Disciplinary Corps might be construed as offering a bribe, so in the interest of propriety, I ask that you remove yourselves if youve no other business here.
Even Nian Zu wouldnt treat a Justicar so harshly, not because he didnt dare, but because it wasnt worth the headache. While their strict Oaths prevented them from abusing their power, officials of the Disciplinary Corps were a fanatical bunch who represented the Emperors Justice in his stead, and there was nothing in their Oaths preventing them from investigating disrespectful individuals more thoroughly than others. Whats more, laws were dead, but people alive, and it was up to the individual Justicars to interpret the laws as they saw fit, such as in this very case with Dastan Zhandos. A prickly subject, sparing the life of a rebel who fought alongside Defiled, but the boy had displayed Purity and proven himself of sound mind, as had the other survivors of his retinue. In light of Dastan and Sahbs almost unprecedented accomplishment by Developing their Domains at the tender age of twenty-four, hindsight proved Marshal Chu Tongzus decision correct, but even still the Justicars overturned it and sentenced the two young Experts to death, a matter open to debate with no correct answer.
That said, this move of the Disciplinary Corps would not sit well with most nobles of the Empire, for it set a precedent in which they might find themselves drafted to the front lines should their slaves prove themselves too outstanding...
A fact Falling Rain made plain by stating it out loud, voicing his displeasure before the Enforcers were even out of sight. Seems Ive been training and treating my slaves too well, he said, shaking his head in feigned self-recrimination as the guests chuckled politely in reply. Such a grave sin, safeguarding the lives of my soldiers on the battlefield and ensuring their morale remains high during periods of rest. More chuckles this time, including a genuine one from Nian Zu, impressed by the boys quick thinking. It wouldnt hurt to remind everyone present of his exemplary wartime achievements, killing more Defiled and losing fewer soldiers than any other junior officer on the front lines, not to mention his unbroken record of consecutive days spent on the front lines. No matter. I was getting bored of sitting around in the Citadel all day, so a jaunt to the front lines will do wonders for my mood. Raising a cup to the crowd, he smiled as the guests raised their own and said, To all our guests tonight, this Imperial Consort offers his most humble and heartfelt apologies for ruining the nights festivities, and I shall drink a forfeit in contrition.
Clever to apologize to the guests first, elevating their importance at no cost to himself since guest-of-honour comrade Du was already firmly in his pocket. Even then, Rain didnt forget to apologize to comrade Du, and even offered a toast to Nian Zu as thanks. After three cups, the boys legs were already shaky, but he persevered and invited the guests to stay and make merry. Few took him up on the offer, though most stuck around to bid their hosts a polite farewell before beating a hasty retreat, neither cutting ties with the Bekhai nor committing themselves to confronting the Disciplinary Corps, for it was clear to everyone present that the Justicars were pushing a political agenda. Why else would they act in such a high-handed manner against a young Imperial Hero like Falling Rain, and over such a minor and almost inconsequential matter?
Even a lummox like Nian Zu could see that this meant another Imperial Scion was involved, one with deep ties to the Prime Ministers office to hold such influence over the Disciplinary Corps...
Though curious to know what Falling Rain did to provoke such a powerful foe, Baatar and Akanai were too busy seeing their guests out to explain matters in detail, and comrade Du in such a foul mood only the bravest of souls dared approach him. Well-versed in such matters, Ryo Dain sat at her godfathers side and bade his guests farewell in his stead, while his granddaughter Yan clung to his arm and spoke softly in an effort to raise his spirits. They were both good children and reminded Nian Zu of what couldve been if hed been more supportive of Du Yi and Yuzhen, but after what he went through to break ties with his own family, Nian Zu had not been eager to start a new one.
Or at least, he hadnt until recently, but it was far too late for regrets. While comrade Du adopted Yan as his granddaughter only two years past, Nian Zu lacked skin thick enough to ask Yuzhen if she wanted another father or go snatching up Bekhai orphans, not to mention how he had little to offer any prospective heir. His wealth was middling, his teachings mediocre, and his titles not hereditary, so the only thing he had to bequeath was a whole host of grudges just waiting to be unleashed. The writing on the wall was plain to see, Nian Zus time had come and gone, and the world knew it, which was why he sat here twiddling his thumbs while everyone rushed to pay their respects to the people sitting at this table who mattered.
Perhaps he could take a page from Falling Rain and rear a wildcat or three for companionship...
Everything changed when he turned a hundred years old at the beginning of this year, for he no longer stood first amongst his peers as the strongest Martial Warrior in the North, the one deciding warrior who could change the outcome of any trial or dispute he took part in. Instead, he had no idea how he might fare if matched against other century-old monsters, because even though he was confident of killing an Ancestral Beast in an ambush, he had no illusions of standing against even a half-step Divinity in single combat, or even someone far from it. Take comrade Du for instance, who put to rest the decades-old rumours of his infirmity after soundly defeating the married Exarchs Bralton and Erien in a bloodless sparring match, some two years ago when he visited the Northern Bridge. While Nian Zu could defeat the formidable pair in an open match, he wasnt so arrogant as to believe he could do it without injuring anyone like comrade Du had. Killing was easy, surviving difficult, and defeating your foes without bloodshed the most difficult feat of all, one comrade Du pulled off with relative ease, according to Bralton himself.
And now, Du Min Gyu, this monster in human skin counted as one of Nian Zus peers, not to mention all the centuries-old hidden dragons of the Empire like Akanai and her husband, Husolt. At less than eighty years of age, Baatar was already strong enough to match Nian Zu, so how strong would his respected Mentor be?
With time and attention to spare, he ceased lamenting about old age and paid close attention to how the Bekhais guests behaved, for the differences were telling. First to leave were the sycophants and merchants, rushing off to protect their own asses lest the eyes of the Disciplinary Corps turn their way, followed by the ladder-climbing parasites who attached themselves to the Bekhai in hopes of riding their coat-tails to success. Next to leave were those friends-written-rivals, the powerful factions who saw the Bekhai as a threat, but had yet to decide between clash or compromise. They stayed not to show support, but so that they might needle their would-be opponents or learn something of interest, but as a whole, the Bekhai were tight-lipped regarding the reason behind the Justicars abnormal behaviour. Falling Rain spoke more than necessary and less carefully than he should, but aside from making light of his sentence and professing a longing to return to the front lines, he said little else regarding the matter of his hearing.
Of all the half-witted, short-sighted, mule-headed reasons to rebel, this one had to be the worst. Or best, depending on how one looked at it. Fighting over a woman, truly the downfall of many great men. ...I hate to be callous, but is giving her up not an option?
Of course it is. This time, it was Sarnai who spoke up, while the consort in question withered away in fright. But Rain asked if she wanted to leave with the fop and she said no. Since that is the case, then the girl stays, end of discussion. Jixing does not seem like a man accustomed to disappointment, but I look forward to teaching him a sound lesson on the subject matter.
Thankfully, Ouyang Yuhuan saved him the trouble of pushing the issue and voiced his thoughts for him. All this for an Imperial Servant. Is it truly worth it?
She is not just an Imperial Servant, Sarnai replied, her glare brooking no argument. Zheng Luo is my sons consort and my first daughter-in-law. She is of the Bekhai, her children will be of the Bekhai, her grandchildren will be of the Bekhai, and we will fight to the death to keep her safe.
...Stubborn and incomprehensible, but honourable and steadfast.
In the face of Bekhai integrity and Zheng Luos teary joy, Nian Zu could do naught but accept things as they were. Luckily, this was merely a spat between the younger generation and nothing more serious, which meant it should be a simple enough affair to protect Rain from Imperial machinations. With the Legate overseeing battlefield command and Yuzhen handling logistics, all Nian Zu needed to do was keep an eye on their allies and ensure Rain wasnt placed in harms way. How difficult could it be?
Though he didnt hear the courtyard doors burst open, he felt the gust of wind which accompanied it and he turned to face the possible threat. Marching in at the head of his former retinue, Dastan Zhandos strode forth with weapon drawn and expression grim, pushing Nian Zu and everyone else in his way to stand before Rain. Dropping to their knees, the dozen or so rebels from Sanshu presented their weapons to Rain hilt first. Our lives are yours, they said as one, their voices determined and unwavering, each one unable to outright ask Rain to kill them due to their Oaths, yet proving their fealty and dedication through their actions.
How Falling Rain could be so beloved by his people yet so antagonistic to outsiders was a mystery to be sure, but seeing the fervent devotion in the eyes of these convicted traitors proved Rains worth, for few officers could inspire such feelings in the soldiers under their command, much less slave soldiers who once sided with the Defiled.
However, in response to this touching display, the boy groaned and rolled his eyes. Dont be fucking stupid. What would killing you accomplish? Taken aback by the admonishment, Dastan was not alone in his confusion, as Nian Zu and everyone else present save Yuzhen and Zheng Luo turned to Rain for clarification. Doing a poor job of hiding his disdain for their ignorance, Rain explained, Killing them does nothing. Sure I wont have to go to the front lines anymore, but Jixing will just find another excuse. He dropped all other charges, which means putting me on the front lines was his end goal, and since the Legate allowed it, Im certain he wants the same thing, albeit for different reasons. Why else would he assign Brother Biao to my Honour Guard? I dont need a Peak Expert to guard me if Im sitting safe in the citadel, so like it or not, this is happening, and Id prefer it if my Domain-wielding friend were alive to watch my back. Shrugging, he added, Besides, doesnt the Emperor favour young talents? Dastan and Sahb are slaves and rebels, but theyre still ridiculously talented, so killing them wont just look cowardly, we might even be punished for it.
...Ordinarily, Nian Zu would have lambasted anyone who dared call him fucking stupid, but considering hed been ready to end Dastans life himself, the criticism was quite valid.
Swatting Dastans axe handle aside, Rain scowled and said, You done kneeling and being dramatic yet? Im headed to the front lines tomorrow, with only you guys, my Honour Guard, and Nian Zu to protect me, so you should probably get some rest and let me do the same. Holding a hand up to forestall all arguments, he turned to his three betrotheds and said, No, none of you are coming with me. Turning to the half-cat girl, he added, Well... except Song, because she has to... Sorry. No Khishig guardians either, so Jochi and Argat can stay here. Well need people to guard Song though. Yes, even you have to stay Grandpa Du, what will you do if they get their hands on... whats his name. You know... Kais kid. Anyways, anyone who comes along will just become a target to exploit, and the fewer options we leave Jixing, the easier itll be to guess his next move. Turning to Zheng Luo, he asked, How goes the whole forgery thing? And I was thinking...
It was an incredible thing to watch, this young, crippled hero taking charge in a courtyard filled with no less than four General officers and multiple Peak Experts and Experts, but in Nian Zus eyes, it seemed oddly fitting. Even if the boy never regained his Martial Strength, his mind was still sound, and he could learn to be much like Du Yi once was, a brilliant and devious strategist who played his enemies against each other and always came out on top.
...Granted, Rain wasnt quite so brilliant and nowhere near as devious, but he had plenty of time to learn with Nian Zu, the Hero of the Northern Wall, standing by to protect him.
What else was an irrelevant old man to do if not make way for the future?
Chapter Meme
Chapter 495In the wake of the Justicars judgment, Nian Zu expected the Bekhai to do what most would: accept the sentence, end the banquet, and gather their allies to discuss their next move. Instead, the reclusive mountain tribesmen surprised him yet again as Baatar and the rest of his family sat in stony silence, not even Sending to prepare for what would come next. A staunch warrior of limitless potential, Nian Zu saw much of his younger self in Baatar, a man who craved the thrill of battle and the heady rush of progress along the Martial Path, but such single-minded dedication came at a cost, and much like Nian Zu himself, Baatar was wholly indifferent to politics and intrigue, treating every problem as one to ignore or smash aside.And from the looks of things, the half-wolf warrior saw the Disciplinary Corps as the latter, an impulse which if acted on, would amount to outright rebellion...An hour ago, Nian Zu would have laughed at the thought of his patient, cunning, and strategic-minded second-in-command making a grossly incompetent decision like rebelling against the Empire without proper preparation, but every dragon has their reverse scale, and Falling Rain was Baatars. Were it not for Nian Zu physically restraining the man, Baatar might have upended the dining table and slaughtered the Justicars in plain sight when they announced his sons punishment, a move which would have played right into their foes hand.A righteous warrior fears not the Enemy arranged against them, but must be all too wary of allies hiding daggers behind their backs. A lesson hard learned, but unlike Nian Zu, Baatar lacked a partner with a brilliant political mind to teach him how to play the game. Fortunately, while Baatar and Akanai were wholly indifferent to politics, Falling Rain proved himself a quick study, though a tad haughty and arrogant for Nian Zus tastes. After accepting his protection, the Bekhai princeling straightened up, turned to the Justicars, and said, If youre waiting for an invitation to join us, I fear hosting members of the Disciplinary Corps might be construed as offering a bribe, so in the interest of propriety, I ask that you remove yourselves if youve no other business here.Even Nian Zu wouldnt treat a Justicar so harshly, not because he didnt dare, but because it wasnt worth the headache. While their strict Oaths prevented them from abusing their power, officials of the Disciplinary Corps were a fanatical bunch who represented the Emperors Justice in his stead, and there was nothing in their Oaths preventing them from investigating disrespectful individuals more thoroughly than others. Whats more, laws were dead, but people alive, and it was up to the individual Justicars to interpret the laws as they saw fit, such as in this very case with Dastan Zhandos. A prickly subject, sparing the life of a rebel who fought alongside Defiled, but the boy had displayed Purity and proven himself of sound mind, as had the other survivors of his retinue. In light of Dastan and Sahbs almost unprecedented accomplishment by Developing their Domains at the tender age of twenty-four, hindsight proved Marshal Chu Tongzus decision correct, but even still the Justicars overturned it and sentenced the two young Experts to death, a matter open to debate with no correct answer.That said, this move of the Disciplinary Corps would not sit well with most nobles of the Empire, for it set a precedent in which they might find themselves drafted to the front lines should their slaves prove themselves too outstanding...A fact Falling Rain made plain by stating it out loud, voicing his displeasure before the Enforcers were even out of sight. Seems Ive been training and treating my slaves too well, he said, shaking his head in feigned self-recrimination as the guests chuckled politely in reply. Such a grave sin, safeguarding the lives of my soldiers on the battlefield and ensuring their morale remains high during periods of rest. More chuckles this time, including a genuine one from Nian Zu, impressed by the boys quick thinking. It wouldnt hurt to remind everyone present of his exemplary wartime achievements, killing more Defiled and losing fewer soldiers than any other junior officer on the front lines, not to mention his unbroken record of consecutive days spent on the front lines. No matter. I was getting bored of sitting around in the Citadel all day, so a jaunt to the front lines will do wonders for my mood. Raising a cup to the crowd, he smiled as the guests raised their own and said, To all our guests tonight, this Imperial Consort offers his most humble and heartfelt apologies for ruining the nights festivities, and I shall drink a forfeit in contrition.Clever to apologize to the guests first, elevating their importance at no cost to himself since guest-of-honour comrade Du was already firmly in his pocket. Even then, Rain didnt forget to apologize to comrade Du, and even offered a toast to Nian Zu as thanks. After three cups, the boys legs were already shaky, but he persevered and invited the guests to stay and make merry. Few took him up on the offer, though most stuck around to bid their hosts a polite farewell before beating a hasty retreat, neither cutting ties with the Bekhai nor committing themselves to confronting the Disciplinary Corps, for it was clear to everyone present that the Justicars were pushing a political agenda. Why else would they act in such a high-handed manner against a young Imperial Hero like Falling Rain, and over such a minor and almost inconsequential matter?Even a lummox like Nian Zu could see that this meant another Imperial Scion was involved, one with deep ties to the Prime Ministers office to hold such influence over the Disciplinary Corps...Though curious to know what Falling Rain did to provoke such a powerful foe, Baatar and Akanai were too busy seeing their guests out to explain matters in detail, and comrade Du in such a foul mood only the bravest of souls dared approach him. Well-versed in such matters, Ryo Dain sat at her godfathers side and bade his guests farewell in his stead, while his granddaughter Yan clung to his arm and spoke softly in an effort to raise his spirits. They were both good children and reminded Nian Zu of what couldve been if hed been more supportive of Du Yi and Yuzhen, but after what he went through to break ties with his own family, Nian Zu had not been eager to start a new one.Or at least, he hadnt until recently, but it was far too late for regrets. While comrade Du adopted Yan as his granddaughter only two years past, Nian Zu lacked skin thick enough to ask Yuzhen if she wanted another father or go snatching up Bekhai orphans, not to mention how he had little to offer any prospective heir. His wealth was middling, his teachings mediocre, and his titles not hereditary, so the only thing he had to bequeath was a whole host of grudges just waiting to be unleashed. The writing on the wall was plain to see, Nian Zus time had come and gone, and the world knew it, which was why he sat here twiddling his thumbs while everyone rushed to pay their respects to the people sitting at this table who mattered.Perhaps he could take a page from Falling Rain and rear a wildcat or three for companionship...Everything changed when he turned a hundred years old at the beginning of this year, for he no longer stood first amongst his peers as the strongest Martial Warrior in the North, the one deciding warrior who could change the outcome of any trial or dispute he took part in. Instead, he had no idea how he might fare if matched against other century-old monsters, because even though he was confident of killing an Ancestral Beast in an ambush, he had no illusions of standing against even a half-step Divinity in single combat, or even someone far from it. Take comrade Du for instance, who put to rest the decades-old rumours of his infirmity after soundly defeating the married Exarchs Bralton and Erien in a bloodless sparring match, some two years ago when he visited the Northern Bridge. While Nian Zu could defeat the formidable pair in an open match, he wasnt so arrogant as to believe he could do it without injuring anyone like comrade Du had. Killing was easy, surviving difficult, and defeating your foes without bloodshed the most difficult feat of all, one comrade Du pulled off with relative ease, according to Bralton himself.And now, Du Min Gyu, this monster in human skin counted as one of Nian Zus peers, not to mention all the centuries-old hidden dragons of the Empire like Akanai and her husband, Husolt. At less than eighty years of age, Baatar was already strong enough to match Nian Zu, so how strong would his respected Mentor be?With time and attention to spare, he ceased lamenting about old age and paid close attention to how the Bekhais guests behaved, for the differences were telling. First to leave were the sycophants and merchants, rushing off to protect their own asses lest the eyes of the Disciplinary Corps turn their way, followed by the ladder-climbing parasites who attached themselves to the Bekhai in hopes of riding their coat-tails to success. Next to leave were those friends-written-rivals, the powerful factions who saw the Bekhai as a threat, but had yet to decide between clash or compromise. They stayed not to show support, but so that they might needle their would-be opponents or learn something of interest, but as a whole, the Bekhai were tight-lipped regarding the reason behind the Justicars abnormal behaviour. Falling Rain spoke more than necessary and less carefully than he should, but aside from making light of his sentence and professing a longing to return to the front lines, he said little else regarding the matter of his hearing.Of all the half-witted, short-sighted, mule-headed reasons to rebel, this one had to be the worst. Or best, depending on how one looked at it. Fighting over a woman, truly the downfall of many great men. ...I hate to be callous, but is giving her up not an option?Of course it is. This time, it was Sarnai who spoke up, while the consort in question withered away in fright. But Rain asked if she wanted to leave with the fop and she said no. Since that is the case, then the girl stays, end of discussion. Jixing does not seem like a man accustomed to disappointment, but I look forward to teaching him a sound lesson on the subject matter.Thankfully, Ouyang Yuhuan saved him the trouble of pushing the issue and voiced his thoughts for him. All this for an Imperial Servant. Is it truly worth it?She is not just an Imperial Servant, Sarnai replied, her glare brooking no argument. Zheng Luo is my sons consort and my first daughter-in-law. She is of the Bekhai, her children will be of the Bekhai, her grandchildren will be of the Bekhai, and we will fight to the death to keep her safe....Stubborn and incomprehensible, but honourable and steadfast.In the face of Bekhai integrity and Zheng Luos teary joy, Nian Zu could do naught but accept things as they were. Luckily, this was merely a spat between the younger generation and nothing more serious, which meant it should be a simple enough affair to protect Rain from Imperial machinations. With the Legate overseeing battlefield command and Yuzhen handling logistics, all Nian Zu needed to do was keep an eye on their allies and ensure Rain wasnt placed in harms way. How difficult could it be?Though he didnt hear the courtyard doors burst open, he felt the gust of wind which accompanied it and he turned to face the possible threat. Marching in at the head of his former retinue, Dastan Zhandos strode forth with weapon drawn and expression grim, pushing Nian Zu and everyone else in his way to stand before Rain. Dropping to their knees, the dozen or so rebels from Sanshu presented their weapons to Rain hilt first. Our lives are yours, they said as one, their voices determined and unwavering, each one unable to outright ask Rain to kill them due to their Oaths, yet proving their fealty and dedication through their actions.How Falling Rain could be so beloved by his people yet so antagonistic to outsiders was a mystery to be sure, but seeing the fervent devotion in the eyes of these convicted traitors proved Rains worth, for few officers could inspire such feelings in the soldiers under their command, much less slave soldiers who once sided with the Defiled.However, in response to this touching display, the boy groaned and rolled his eyes. Dont be fucking stupid. What would killing you accomplish? Taken aback by the admonishment, Dastan was not alone in his confusion, as Nian Zu and everyone else present save Yuzhen and Zheng Luo turned to Rain for clarification. Doing a poor job of hiding his disdain for their ignorance, Rain explained, Killing them does nothing. Sure I wont have to go to the front lines anymore, but Jixing will just find another excuse. He dropped all other charges, which means putting me on the front lines was his end goal, and since the Legate allowed it, Im certain he wants the same thing, albeit for different reasons. Why else would he assign Brother Biao to my Honour Guard? I dont need a Peak Expert to guard me if Im sitting safe in the citadel, so like it or not, this is happening, and Id prefer it if my Domain-wielding friend were alive to watch my back. Shrugging, he added, Besides, doesnt the Emperor favour young talents? Dastan and Sahb are slaves and rebels, but theyre still ridiculously talented, so killing them wont just look cowardly, we might even be punished for it....Ordinarily, Nian Zu would have lambasted anyone who dared call him fucking stupid, but considering hed been ready to end Dastans life himself, the criticism was quite valid.Swatting Dastans axe handle aside, Rain scowled and said, You done kneeling and being dramatic yet? Im headed to the front lines tomorrow, with only you guys, my Honour Guard, and Nian Zu to protect me, so you should probably get some rest and let me do the same. Holding a hand up to forestall all arguments, he turned to his three betrotheds and said, No, none of you are coming with me. Turning to the half-cat girl, he added, Well... except Song, because she has to... Sorry. No Khishig guardians either, so Jochi and Argat can stay here. Well need people to guard Song though. Yes, even you have to stay Grandpa Du, what will you do if they get their hands on... whats his name. You know... Kais kid. Anyways, anyone who comes along will just become a target to exploit, and the fewer options we leave Jixing, the easier itll be to guess his next move. Turning to Zheng Luo, he asked, How goes the whole forgery thing? And I was thinking...It was an incredible thing to watch, this young, crippled hero taking charge in a courtyard filled with no less than four General officers and multiple Peak Experts and Experts, but in Nian Zus eyes, it seemed oddly fitting. Even if the boy never regained his Martial Strength, his mind was still sound, and he could learn to be much like Du Yi once was, a brilliant and devious strategist who played his enemies against each other and always came out on top....Granted, Rain wasnt quite so brilliant and nowhere near as devious, but he had plenty of time to learn with Nian Zu, the Hero of the Northern Wall, standing by to protect him.What else was an irrelevant old man to do if not make way for the future? Chapter Meme
