Huge army, huh? I don't think I can defeat them, but I will try. I hope I don't mess things up, Art

And about the reason... WOW! That's great. I never thought about it before. But, yes, you're right. My hate seems childish now
_____________________________

Mystic felt a little scared, but she tried to overcome it. Lu Meng, in the middle of difficulty lies opportunity! She said optimistically, then turn to Lu Xun. Right, Lord Lu Xun?

Lu Xun nodded, then he pointed at Artirtico. If we all fight with bravery like him, I'm sure we can repel those enemy!

They fought bravely, but due to the number disadvantage, they should fall back.

Quickly, close the gate! Zhou Yu ordered. And set the archer on the castle gate!

Mystic, Lu Xun, and Artirtico entered the castle. They were panting from exhaustion after fight those enemy.

It's no use...

Mystic saw a stable. There are so many straw there. Suddenly, she got an idea. She ran directly to Zhou Yu.

Zhou Yu! I know how to take care those army, let me do this will you?

Don't let her do it, Dear Yu. She'll just mess thing up! Said Xiao Qiao, giving Mystic such glare. But Mystic ignored it for she knew that this was a very critical moment.

I'm sure it'll work, just let me handle this!

What's your plan?

Throw the straw there, then set a fire. The straw can make the fire deadlier!

I don't think it'll work...

Then, what will you do? Waiting until the troop break the castle gate?! And let we all die here?!

Finally, Zhou Yu gave a nod and order the troop to do so. Some soldiers threw massive straw to the enemy when some archers fired the fire arrows. It burnt almost half of the enemy.

Artirtico and Lu Xun approached Mystic. It worked, Mystic! Congratulation!

Thanks, Art! But this battle is far from over!

Hey, where do you get those fire attack idea? Lu Xun said jokingly.

You're the one who taught me how to be a pyromaniac, Lord Lu Xun! Mystic gave a wide grin. You know? You're the greatest pyromaniac here!

Mystic, you're making me angry...

That will be a pyromaniac strategist, then! Artirtico said, then gave a laugh.

You too, Artitico?

Artirtico and Mystic laughed, Lu Xun snorted. But he didn't say anything. Suddenly, Zhou Yu approached them.

Mystic, we're run out of straw when the enemy still so many!

Ugh! What should we do then? Mystic turned at Artirtico, then she continued speaking. I have get rid half of them. Now is you time, Art! Show them what you've got!
_____________________________

Okay, that's for now. Well, I hope you like it. The fire attack idea seems a bit impossible... But, well... I don't have any other tactic. The rest is your job, Artirtico! Get rid those enemy, okay? Good luck!

Ok, my turn again

After meeting the skilled warrior (and apparently drinker) Fiverings, I decided the time had come to warn the rest of the heroes of the danger we now face, if we are to survive, we must face this threat together!

On our travels, we came across an army, led by Lu Bu! With only the 3 of us there was no way we could take such a large force. They must have numbered in tens, possibly hundreds of thousands! We fled, as fast as we could, before approaching another army led by Hua Xiong! Even bigger than the troops led by Lu Bu! Where did all of these enemy reinforcements come from?? We were surrounded, total annihilation seemed inevitable. We would go down without fear! We would fight with every ounce of strength we had!

As I got ready to attack, a massive fire started around us! This must have been the enemy's way to ensure we had no way out, however, as we began our fight, the enemy seemed confused... easy to cut down, almost as if they were being burned by the fires as well...
Instead of sitting around wondering, waiting to be killed we took advantage of the situation and fled! Lu Bu pursued, scaring some of Hua Xiongs troops into following, leaving Hua Xiong with little more than a few hundred troops left. Whoever or whatever started that fire saved our lives, if it wasn't the enemy that started the fire, then who did? Still fleeing from Lu Bu we came to Mai Castle, the gate was wide open, could it be a trap? I prefered to risk it instead of fighting the massive army approaching. We ran into the castle, only to have the gate slam shut behind us, what now...?

Hope thats ok Five Rings, I didn't have any proper talking lines cos I didn't know what you'd say, then again I don't normally have talkin lines hehe

hahaha. its fine Spear Master. my posts for this thread wont have them either. maybe later though when it gets interesting.

So after falling back to Mai Castle, i was extremely wary of our foe, who were led by the invinceable Lu Bu. At the start of our retreat, i commanded the vanguard of our about five hundred troops against what seemed to be five hundred thousand. I thanked my master heavily during our retreat for showing me the way of elemental power. It had taken me ten years of training, but now, i had the ability to channel the elements through my arms and hands and even into my various weapons. I made sure not one of my soldiers burnt by using the wind to blow out the flames nearest us.

I made sure all five hundred of our troops got into Mai Castle before i strode out to the ballistade and stood, watching intently at the approaching army. I had been taught never to feel fear, only anger, so you can focus more and channel it. It seemed the end had come too soon and that i would never be able to drink and be merry again with my friend, Musashi, and my new friends Spear Master and Ma Chao.

Suddenly the gate closed and there were jeersthat were audible among the walls. Out from Mai Castle came a volley of fire arrows! they struck down the first line of Lu Bu soldiers, and the airwas filled with death and screams. I spun around to see if our soldiers were being lambasted as well, but they were just as surprised as me. I saw Spear Master in the fray, and all he did was smile.... how odd.

Well whoever these archers were, they were no friends of Lu Bu, which means they were our very best friends. Our allies were still unknown until a single figure walked into the forecourt of the castle.....

And yes im a drinker. hehe but who wasnt back then??

Singe stood out among whats left of Wei. "Cao Pi had taken your lord hostage... Who will fight for me?!"

"Aye" Many warriors said. But many still denied Singe.. and they ran... Unknowing of his plans.

Cao Pi stormed furiously around the room. After what had just happened, there was no calming the angered Warrior. "Betrayed. Tricked. And then abandoned by supposedly Loyal Soldiers of Wei" he fumed.

"Unfortunate" Zhen Ji sighed "But, did you really need those soldiers anyway? Pathetic lower forces. You are the lord, they are merely Peons. Replacable."

BG observed the Anger on Cao Pi's face fade visibly, but there was still the effects of the betrayal he had witnessed all over his face.

"We should never have believed that strange being" Cao Pi said.

Suddenly the events of the past few days began to fit togeether in BG's head. Zhen Ji and Cao pi talking Secretly with that stranger the previous night. Talking about something that would benifit Cao Pi. And then the sudden rush to Edo Castle without a given reason. This man' Singe, must have talked Cao Pi into leading Cao Cao into a trap. Despite never having much served Cao Cao, Bg was suddenly dissapointed in Cao Pi and Zhen Ji.

"your men may have betrayed you, but you betrayed your own family" She said cooly to Cao Pi.

"How foolish do you think I am?" Cao Pi demanded. " I was simply told that leading my army to Edo Castle would benifit me, I had no part in the kidnapping of my father. I have tried nothing but to restore Wei, why would i then crumble it?"

Bg considered this, and decided Cao Pi was right. They had all been tricked. "What do we do now. Replacable as soldiers may be, our armies are depleted and the loss of Cao Cao has caused a huge drop in morale, and trust."

" We must find my father"

"I have a suggestion" Bg informed Zhen Ji and Cao Pi "I suggest we gather up those who are still loyal to Wei and head to Edo Castle immediately. Perhpas there will still be clues there."

" Excellent" Cao Pi said " I shall leave it to you to gather the troops. We will march on Edo Castle at Dawn."

Hope you don't mind me being the figure!

Artirtico

Mystic had done all she could, Lu Xun and Lu Meng seemed to be out of ideas...Think! Artirtico told himself, Think! He began to gaze around at the dilapidated walls of the forecourt, noticing how large chunks of rock were falling away. His attention turned to the hardly noticable dustcloud rising from behind the ranks of Lu Bu and Hua Xiongs Armies. Ah, now they still stood a chance. Artirtico began whispering plans into his fellow officers ears...

The plans were set, the gates open but then something happened that Artirtico did not intend. A small army entered the castle bearing different colours and ensignia's to the opposing force. Allies! could it be? They had to be bought out of harms way immediately!

"Lu Meng, Lu Xun, give them a volley!"

Under the cover of arrows, the possible allies entered the castle. Artirtico strode calmly down into the forecourt, appearing from the smoke to the eyes of the 'allies'

"Quickly, you must all follow me now!"

"Is that...Artirtico?, Ma Chao questioned. "How can be trust you?"

Mystic soon appeared, flanking Artirtico.

"Oh Ma Chao, be quiet and bring yourself over here! You two generals, get your men up here now!"

Ma Chao, seeing Mystic, immediately moved up into the area above the forecourt, followed by the two generals who announced themselves as Spear Master and Fiverings.

"So?", questioned Ma Chao

"Watch", replied Artirtico. Mystic slipped away to the left to join Lu Xun and Artirtico to the right, joining Lu Meng.

The enemy had now reached the open gate, flooding inside in a torrent. Both Lu Bu and Hua Xiong pushed their remaining mn forward, expecting there to be little resisitance left. Artirtico's coarse roar was sounded together with Mystic's gleeful yell. The front gates were closed, the front portion of the enemy forces trapped inside. Then, from both right and left, huge boulders and fragments of wall came tumbling down smothered in flames. Most who weren't crushed, were burned. Hua Xiong had hidden himself in the crevice right next to the front gates, forcing them open, allowing the rest of his forces in. Lu Bu, due to the agility of Red Hare had managed also to escape from harm.

A horn outside of the castle was then heard. Artirtico lifted his own horn, sounding a message back. Even Mystic was now looking puzzled as to his intentions.

"Are you three men ready to take on Lu Bu?"

Ma Chao, Spear Master and Fiverings answered by charging down, straight towards him. The enemy were starting to look confused, prompting a slight smile from Artirtico, realising that this was the moment for them to strike, completing the pinsir movement.

"All forces! Advance!"

"That would be my command!", bellowed Sun Jian, but nobody was listening.

Lu Bu, seeing the three generals charging down at him sent two of his commanders to deal with the two flanking the center figure. Moments later he clashed head on with the central general - Ma Chao, swinging out with his halberd. The blow was parried and a dual commenced.

Artirtico decided to head for Hua Xiong, instinctively moving towards the central right area of the enemy ranks. He met Hua Xiong in a flurry of blades, slicing, slashing, weaving, yet Hua Xiong was mighty and kept Artirtico at bay. Only when Mystic arrived, her daggers dancing around behind him, did he give up and flee.

Lu Bu and Ma Chao had been fighting for some fourty bouts when Spear Master and Fiverings joined in. Lu Bu had no chance against the three warriors so fled, up onto the wall and then jumping down, Red Hare landing with grace.

Lu Meng and Lu Xun moved to the left and right flanks of the enemy after exciting from the side gates of the castle, pinning them in and eventually meeting up with the cavalry force that had attacked the enemy from the rear. With both commanders in flight and opposition coming from every direction, the enemy forces lasted little longer, many choosing to surrender. Sun Jian wished for them to be executed but this decision was opposed by all.

The commander of the cavalry army hastily rode up to Artirtico, revealing himself to be the general Ma Dai. After paying respects to Ma Chao, his cousin, he quickly began recalling events to Artirtico. After a series of nods and murmurs of understanding, Artirtico moved over to Lu Meng and put his hand on Lu Mengs shoulder.

"Off already?"

"You know me", replied Artirtico with a smile.

Walking over to Mystic he said, "I thankyou for your company. I'm not sure where I would have been now without you. I now must go - generals Zhao Yun and Zhang Liao call for aid...you must look after Lu Xun and the others...the enemy are bound to attack here again soon...my respect shall remain with you always". Artirtico then turned, almsot tearfully, mounted a brown and white horse and with Ma Dai by his side, ledt the castle, riding hard away over the plains.

---

Enemy destroyed! hope you don't mind me leaving...

FiveRings

"WOOOO HOOOOO!" I bellowed after seeing those peons flee the castle. it was the most intense feeling, the one of battling deah and winning after seventy bouts! VICTORY!!

I will not lie, it looked grim there at the beginning, but as i saw Lu Meng and two other officers approach with a huge air of confidence, i could tell whatever was about to happen, we had just reinforced them. I introduced myself and met two new people, Artirtico and mystic. Very impressive was there plan, a pinser.

My eyes lit up when Artirtico told us to attack Lu Bu himself, so much so that the ground shook from my powers and uncontrollable urge to be challenged. Unfortunately, i could not take his head, but i did take the head of his right hand man general. Ahh the battle was a good one. I had trouble at the start because my opponent wielded a spear and not sword, so i could not get as close to him. the battle itself took only five bouts.

The most memorable, as always was the last. for the first time in my memory, i had been partially unarmed. he had sent my sword twirling through the air where it was to embe itself into a Lu Bu soldier (rather lucky i thought)
anyways, i put away my other sword, and ran for my other sword, because they had been a gift from my master, who said they were never to break, no matter the pressure.

the man ran after me, and a one man ambush plan hatched in my mind. So i began using my powers of the element fire on the surrounding soldiers. the smoke soon encompassed the forecourt, waiting for my wind to quench it. i sensed the man behind me, slowly coming toward me, thinking he had caught me unawares. i found my sword, and put my arms out before i grabbed it. at that moment, i grabbed one of my hidden knives, spun around, and threw it as hard as i could right at the mans throat, but with a twist. as the knife flew through the air, the ground split behind it with earthquake force but only in that thin line.

The knife caught dead center of the mans throat, and the force of the ground under him threw him fifty feet and against the battlements. with a wave of my arm, the smoke was lifted and everyone could see again. i turned around and sprinted tward Lu Bu. on the way, spear master met up with me, mid sprint with a head in is arms. we nodded greetings, and joined the Ma Chao/Lu Bu fray. the peons around us gave us room, and we went at it. after only three bouts between the four of us, Lu Bu knew he was no match fo us and fled.

soon after the battle was just a memory, enemy soldiers being cut down, arrows embedded in there chests. a few brave charged only to be cut down by me, with my throwing knives. as the siege came to a close, our forces in complete victory, i saw my challenger still at the foot of the battlement, gasping for breath. I walked up to him and heard him rasp "It is not over" he started to say something else but i did not grasp it, seeing as how i had already took his head from his body with as much precision as a second in a seppuku.

As the yell of victory wasspread, i counted my men again. All five hundred still intact. these men i had picked up from various camps, secretly teaching them all my ways, knowing that all of them would die for me, all of them, not having to yet. I then saw a man whisper to Artirtico and a smile spread across my face. I walked over to Spear master and praised him for his prowess, and we exchanged pleasantries about our two challengers heads. I then whispered to him "There is another battle that Artirtico is goig to be joining, leaving this castle. i plan to go as well. will you join? answer by being at my side when he leaves."

I immediately gave secret orders to my second in command, Noboru Takinaka, to assemble the men and get horses for all. we are to leave immediately. I walked ammiably over to Artirtico, and whispered as i passed "leave a trail, my five hundred men are to follow" gave a slight nod, and walked over to Mystic.

"I am sorry mystic, but i am to leave with the lord Artirtico. i am still your guard and i will return to protect Lu Xun. until we meet again, mystic" I nodded, smiled as genuinly as i could and walked away, filled with the excitement of the battle to come.

Now i must know the answer from Spear master, i thought as i saw Artirtico grab a horse.

Oooh things are getting very interesting here

The battle at Mai Castle was a difficult one, but we survived. I faced off against Wei Xu, he came at me with his sword in hand, I repelled him but was attacked from behind by Chen Gong. I was able to defend myself from both sides, but soon lost grip of my spear. I thought quick and kicked Chen Gong to the floor, but Wei Xu was in the way of my weapon, I drew my bow to defend from his attacks.

He swiped multiple times with his sword, but my bow is much stronger than it looks. I backflipped and fired an arrow which punctured his shoulder, now to finish him. Chen Gong had recovered and tried attacking me again, but I jumped out of the way and over Wei Xu ready to fire another arrow, I caught sight of Ma Chao and Lu Bu dueling.

Now unconcerned with the injured Wei Xu, I landed next to my weapon, picked it up and rushed to aid Ma Chao. Five Rings must have also seen Lu Bu as the most dangerous opponent and we attacked together. Lu Bu was forced to retreat.

After the battle I discovered Ma Chao had suffered a wound, he tried to hide it, but he could hide nothing from me. Regrettably I had to decline Five Ring's offer to join, so I could find medical treatment for Ma Chao. If I could find Zuo Ci, he could help. I needed an alter to summon him. With my mentor by my side I headed to the alter in Ji Province, but not before saying farewell and thanks to my newfound friends ...

Why are you all leaving me? *sobs* Well, I think it will just go on, right? Actually I'm also planning on leaving Wu.

Anyway, I'm starting to hate Da Qiao too! I hate Qiao sisters! I think it's time to deal with Da Qiao. Sorry for all Qiao sisters fan You can kill me after I finished my story

________________

Mystic took a last look at their leaving. Her eyes watery, but she tried not to show it.

Artirtico, I hope you would find Zhao Yun and Zhang Liao! Spear Master, be loyal to Ma Chao! FiveRings, have a nice adventure!

Mystic waved her hand. They mounted and gave her last look. Then, they left and Mystic shouted.

I won't say goodbye, guys! I'm sure we will meet again!!! She said optimistically.

Mystic stared at their leaving form. Lu Xun approached her and noticed tears that rolled from her eyes. Lu Xun wiped them away.

I'm sure we will meet them again, Mystic.

Mystic nodded. Now, all of the officers and troop entered the castle. Mystic and Lu Xun stood still there.

You know? I'm just thinking about what Art say, Lord Lu Xun.

Huh?

About those warlord... I have to agree with Art, including Sun Jian. I just feel that... I don't want to serve them all. They are killing people just to serve their own purpose! I don't want to be here, Lord Lu Xun! I don't want to kill more people just for ones ambition! I want to travel like they too... Her voice broke. She started to cry.

Lu Xun shocked, then he embraced Mystic.

I also know it, Mystic. But here my loyalty is, to Wu. Do you... do you want to leave Wu, Mystic? Is it mean that... you want to leave me?

Mystic shook her head vigorously and Lu Xun could fell her cries became harder and harder. Of course not! I will stay here as long as you do.

Lu Xun nodded, than they walked to the castle.

- at night... -

All the officers of Wu now were holding a party. Mystic could heard cheers and toasts inside the castle. But now, instead of joined them, she sat on a branch of the tree in the garden. Lu Xun was obviously having a good time there with his fellow officers of Wu.

'Sun Jian is another of the typical commanders of this age, power-hungry and will use anyone and anything to get himself where he wants to be, caring not for those that sacrifice themselves for his desires. Sun Jian, Cao Cao, Liu Bei, Nobunaga Oda - all are alike! They wish to dominate over one another, caring more for having the superior force than for fighting the true enemy.'

She still could hear Artirtico voice in her mind. She wanted to leave Wu. But she didn't want to leave Lu Xun. Asking Lu Xun to leave Wu with her? Impossible.

HEEEEEELLLLPPPPP!!!!!!!

Suddenly, she heard a scream. Da Qiao's scream! Mystic quickly ran toward the castle. And, to her surprise, she saw no one in the great hall. So she climbed upstairs and she saw many people surrounded someone.

I swear I did nothing!

It was Lu Xun's voice! Mystic quickly pushed herself to the crowd and finally stood beside Lu Xun. She turn to look at the other Wu officers. Some showed disbelieving look when others showed disgusted or angry look.

Wait! What happened here?

He... he tried to violate me! Mystic saw Da Qiao sobbed and pointed an accusing finger at Lu Xun.

No! That's not true! Lady Da Qiao dragged me to her room and she asked me to...

NOOOO!!!! Da Qiao cried harder. She hugged Sun Ce, her husband, tightly. Somehow, Mystic could see that evil grin in Da Qiao face.

You're lying! I don't believe you! Mystic said with an angry tone.

Could someone shut this pesky girl up???!!! Xiao shouted referred to Mystic, then she tried to calm her sister. Again, Mystic could see those impish look on their face.

Lord Sun Ce, you have to believe me, I did nothing...

ENOUGH!!! Sun Ce said furiously. He raised his Tonfa. Lu Xun quickly covered his face, tried to protect him from that attack. He heard that Tonfa hit something, but he felt no pain. When he opened his eyes, he saw Mystic lying beside his feet. Blood spilled from her lips. It was clear to him that Mystic had taken that hit.

Mystic! Are you alright? Lu Xun knelt beside her.

Mystic stood up, she wiped her own blood. I won't let anyone hurt Lord Lu Xun! Absolutely no one! Then, she turned to look at Lu Xun.

Come on, Lord Lu Xun. We should run away! She whispered. Then, with a quick lighting speed, she grabbed Lu Xun and jumped from the nearest window. Fortunately, they fell safely at the soft grass. They quickly ran toward the stable and mounted on their horses.

Chase them!!! They could hear Sun Ce's order.

What have you done, Lord Lu Xun?! Mystic asked, still galloping her steed.

Lu Xun shook his head. I did nothing! She took me to her room and she asked me to... to go to bed with her! I rejected and got out of her room when suddenly she screamed like that!

Mystic was more than shocked right now. Suddenly, she felt a pain in her arm. An arrow struck her. And, another arrow struck her horse. Before she could stand up, Sun Ce grabbed her hand harshly.

No! Let go! Let go of me! Lord Lu Xun, quickly! Run away!!!

Lu Xun stopped and turn to look at Mystic. Sun Ce grabbed Mystic by the collar of her clothing and lifted her. Mystic could hardly breath right now.

No! Mystic!

Quickly, Lord Lu Xun! Run! Mystic tried to speak. Her face turned blue due the lack of air.

You know the deal, Lu Xun. Sun Ce gave Lu Xun a smug face. Lu Xun couldn't say anything.

Leave me, Lord Lu Xun...! Run... Her voice was inaudible.

Lu Xun sighed heavily. Release her. Sun Ce loose his grip and Mystic fell to the ground, panting heavily. Lu Xun dismounted from his horse. Then he walked toward Sun Ce. He knelt beside Mystic, and he saw Mystic's face stained with blood, dirt, and tears. He wiped them once more and handed his Eagle to Mystic before helping her to stand up.

You... you're idiot, Lord Lu Xun! You should just run away!!! Now I failed to protect you! I'm such a useless! Mystic cried harder. Tears ran down from her eyes.

Hush, don't say that, Mystic. He gave her a weak smile. He gently pulled the arrow from Mystic's arm. It was so gentle that Mystic didn't felt any pain. After that, two guards grabbed Lu Xun's arm and bound them. They left that place and back to the castle. Lu Xun gave her last look.

Everything is going to be alright, Mystic...

Mystic saw the Wu officers leaving her alone. Tears still rolled from her eyes. Lu Xun was in danger, yet, she could do nothing to help him.

She fell on her knees 'Lord Lu Xun never has a thought of betraying his kingdom. Yet, his kingdom betrayed him. This is not fair' She thought.

You're dismissed, Mystic. Sun Ce said before turned away. Both Qiao sister gave Mystic triumph look before leaving.

Mystic clenched her fist. Her teeth gritted with anger. 'How could someone say that!? Only Lord Lu Xun could dismiss me!' She thought angrily. She gripped Lu Xun's Eagle tightly. 'Are the Qiao sisters do that because they hate me? Impossible! Then... why did they...? I thought it's just a child fight.'

Lu Meng patted her shoulder before he left. You should be strong for Lu Xun. And he walked away.

Mystic left behind there. She wiped her tears away. That's right. She would get nothing from crying. She stood up and put Lu Xun's Eagle in her small bag. She bandaged her wounded arm. Her mind worked properly, then. She thought of a plan. A rescue plan.

Hang on, Lord Lu Xun! I will save you! I promise!

________________

Okay, that's for now. I'm still thinking of my plan now. I'm feeling like like a strategist now

Well, I know I'm being so emotional. I'm so sorry. You can kill me now...

FiveRings

As i lay down in the grass, i thought of everything that i've done in mylife. my master once told me that remembering is a good way of meditating, and that i must have a sharp mind as well as a sharp weapon in combat. All the men ive slaughtered, all the ladies ive pillowed with, all the good times ive had with my newfound friends. A good life, which is why i am not afraid to die.

Ive been secretly following Artirtico's army on their way to aid Zhang Liao and Zhao Yun. Even though i whispered it to him, i knew spies were listening and so i planted a seed of morale among whomever heard. Another Battle! I knew of about three thousand ronin who were "secretly" following me. As if i didnt already know!? Absurd. ive taught all five hundred of my men to fight as warriors, and to sneak as ninja.

One thing i did not count on was how far away Zhao Yun and Zhang Liao were. its been almost four days since we've set out. to pass away the time, ive been setting up secret training sessions for a select fifty of my men. they are to always be my personal guard by the time i get done. Artirtico was gathering every able bodied man to his cause, which makes methink there is an alterior motive to this man. No matter, there is only one reason i came with him anyway and one reason only...

Musashi!

I had been told in my room before the siege of Mai castle had even begun by Noboru Takinaka. Apprently the reason Zhang Liao and Zhao Yun needed reinfocements was because of my closest friend. Ah the wonder of it all to be able to see The best swordsman in the land again, besides me of course. I will need to have a private audience with him if i am to stop the bloodshed and hopefully bring him to our cause.

Suddenly Noboru ran up the side of the hill, and only when i was sure it was my second in command, did i ease my sword back into its scabbard.
"Yes Noboru?"
"Sire, Lord Artirtico has begun the move again," said Norboru.
"Excellent, ready my horse and tell everyone we are leaving immediately."
"But sire...."
"yes?"
"we will surely catch up to them and blow our cover to the rest of his army!"
"I know Takinaka-san, i think its time his men knew who was following him. That is all."
I said for i knew a hundred questions were on Noboru's lips. We wont actually leave for another few hours. Its a good thing i respect your fighting so much Takinaka-san, and its another good thing you are my brother. for if neither of those were true, i would strip you of rank. Be more Focused Noboru, i thought. i need a leader like you. Ever since Spear Master refused....

I knew his first loyalty was to Ma Chao and for that i applaud you on your loyalty, but i would have sorely liked some friendly company. Shigata ga nai. i will see you soon enough.

Now..... What else has happened in my life....

quote MysticBlaze

He... he tried to violate me!

Singe stood atop of his castle. In his hand was a small blade. He began to smile synically. As he raised his hand in the air showing the enemy armies the blade.

"Singe will return... another day."

With that he drove the blade into his stomach commiting seppoku. He fell to the ground as wind blew around him... then his body vanished. Ending one warriors journey... for now.

Sorry Five Rings , I'd rather not have to tie other people down with my ideas. Your story would be much better without me interfering.

Ma Chao and I were still on our way to the Ji Province, for then all I could do was to bandage up his wounds. Since starting our journey he revealed two more wounds, the first I discovered was on his back, I found it after he struggled to walk after the battle and nearly fell. He caught himself on his hands and knees. On our journeys he told me of two other wounds he sustained, but swore there were no more. His left arm had been dislocated and he right wrist broken, Lu Bu was a fierce opponent indeed, had Five Rings and I not raced to his aid I dread to think what could have happened, but am grateful we lived. I myself sustained one or two cuts and bruises, but I faced no decent opponent until Lu Bu.

Ma Chao truly is a splendid warrior, had I faced Lu Bu alone I would have been killed where I stand. He is the greatest warrior I have learned from, however, for Ma Chao to heal and once again reach his prime, we must seek help from the greatest sorcerer I have ever learned from.

On our way to Ji Province we passed Anegawa, where we spotted a large army under the banner of the Oda, I doubt I could understand the reason for them being there, Nobunaga is a very complex man. On the other side of the battlefield was the combined army of Azai Nagamasa and Naoe Kanetsugu. Why were these armies fighting? Did they not know of the evil we face? We raced to the army of Nobunaga, who told us the enemy army was made up of phantoms! That would explain why Nagamasa and Kanetsugu would fight against Nobunaga in a time like this, but could Nobunaga just be lying to us to get us to fight for his side? The Azai-Naoe army were vastly outnumbered, I simply could not risk two fine and talented warriors to perish for the sake of ruling the land. Knowing I could be taking a big risk, I bid Nobunaga a glorious victory, and secretly headed to speak with Nagamasa and Kanetsugu to find out whether or not Nobunaga spoke truth ...

quote Artirtico

quote MysticBlaze

He... he tried to violate me!

Brilliant one liner

Is my English bad? Did I use bad English or made grammatical mistakes? Sorry, I'm not good in English...

My story is very long... I swear I didn't mean to make you bored.

Okay, now, the rescue plan! Anyway, thanks for the help, Art!

Okay, that's for now!

Again, another long-boring story from Mystic. Sorry, I really don't mean to make you bored

FiveRings

As i saw the messenger announce that an army was behind them and closing fast, i couldnt help but smile. I had charged on with Noboru and left the army at a forced march pace. I now stood about four steps away from Lord Artirtico, within sword distance easily. I chose to wait until our forerunners reached the camp before stepping out.

"Why hello there Lord Artirtico, what a fantastic welcoming party!" i said as i saw the thousands of troops with their weapons out. "I admit, we could have made our appearance a bit more friendly, but these are dark times."
At this, the soldiers lowered their weapons. Inside i smiled. So they know a warrior when they see one do they? i thought.
"What brings you here Lord FiveRings?" asked Artirtico
"War, of course! I plan on joining the ranks of the protagonists and slaughtering all in my way."
"Well you and your five hundred are always welcome in my camp Lord FiveRings."

And that was it. we went on about our business for the rest of the day while i sat on my war horse, Phoenix, thinking about my next move. Phoenix was brawny for his age and the son of Matsukaze and cousin of Red Hare. (i made Matsukaze and Red Hare have babies!)
And he is everything his father and cousin are, if not more, i thought. Ahh it took four drinking games befor he was mine, but now i have him and he is the very best friend i have.

I think its time i showed my cards to the Lord Artirtico, i thought as i saw th sun finally go below the crest of the hill.

It was not difficult finding his tent, given my expertise in reconnaisance and stealth. I walked in and found him at his table looking, at something. When he saw me he quickly put it away and stared at me. I decided i might as well dive in.
"Sire, i have news. The Oda have mobilized and are battling at Anegawa as we speak against the Naoe-Azai army. Also, Lu Xun has been taken prisoner at Mai Castle. so i thank you for sending Zhao Tong and Zhang Hu."
"How do you know this Lord FiveRings!?" asked Artirtico
"Nevermind that. i have come to you tonight to tell you that i plan on meeting Musashi on the field of battle and for you not to send ANYONE to help. i am going to duel him and if i win, he will join us with his officers. i can do this Lord Artirtico, so DO NOT get in the way. PLease."

Artirtico looked in my eyes real hard and i think i saw a flash of annoyance, but it passed, and with more pleading, he gave me his word that he would not interfere.

"Thank you sire. next, i would like to be open with you."
"And why is this Lord FiveRings?" asked Lord Artirtico
"Because i believe you to be a man of character, honor, and loyalty. I like these virtues in my allies. I want me and you to go into battle together, as equals when the time comes. I have Si thousand men within five ri of your camp (ri=miles) and horses for all of them. they will be here whenever you call."

With that, i left the camp and let him think on that. Six thousand men! in five ri!! hahaha. if only he knew that i have three times that in these five miles, i thought. i dont know whether i can trust him, so until then, might as well be cautious.

I approached Phoenix, saddled up, and called for Noboru.
"Yes Sire?" said Noboru
"Alert the men in three hours time to follow me. and tell MY fifty to prepare. they know what it means. i want them with me in case there is ay treachery, from either side...." i said, referring to Musashi.
"Anything Else sire??" uestioned noboru
"Get a good sleep brother" i said with a happiness i did not feel.
"You too sire."

Nice one guys, dont worry mystic, ur stories r cool!

I approached Azai Nagamasa and Naoe Kanetsugu with caution, they treated me with honor and respect, but this may have just been a rouse. They didn't seem to be phantoms, they seemed their normal selves. Intending to get to the bottom of this, I decided to ask them outright why these 2 forces were squabbling amongst each other instead of joining forces. They informed me that Nobunaga had attacked without warning, or even indeed reason, not that Nobunaga ever has reason. In that case, there was only one choice, I would fight with Nagamasa and Kanetsugu, even though I need to help Ma Chao, I cannot turn my back on these great warriors in their time of need.

Part 1 finished. Need to keep it short, startin work in a minute.