wait and see

Singe appeared infront of a huge building.

"Ah the temple... Finally... its time... TO PARTAY HELLZ YEAH!" Singe smiled eagerly.

He walked in to be greeted by many servants.

"Master please would you like to rest you look tired." One said to him.

"Heh... Don't worry I'll go sleep right away." Singe said putting his hand on the servants head.

He walked into a humungous room. He then went to lie down. Suddenly memories began to flash infront of him. Of why he was ressurecting Orochi. and who Was this god of death Spawn. The memories would be explained in due time. All we can say first.. is who this Singe is.


Singe was made to become a great warrior... a brilliant strategist... and a gloriuos leader. When he first appeared infront of the great gods. They tormented him. Told him he would have to survive with other chosen. So he was sent to the world. To live with a family. In a small village... The village inwhich the chosen were sent as children.

Spear Master, what are you doing!!! Come back here or I'll revive you! But... I have another work to do! Saving Lu Xun!!!

Oh, great. 'Thanks' for kidnapping Lu Xun, Singe May I start my journey to save him now?

quote Singe The Master

"LORD LU XUN!!!"

I awoke in a strange dead place. Another realm it would seem, the sky was dark, I was in a city that was in ruins. Then it hit me, this was my home... Before it was destroyed. I looked behind me to find the two statues, right where I left them. One of Zuo Ci, erected by his followers, including myself, and the other, the once lord and ruler of this now dead city, my father.

This must be fate's way of telling me I was in hell. I bowed before them, apologizing for my incompetence. "Your destiny is yours to decide..." I heard those words again. Not just Zuo Ci this time, but I heard my father's voice too. What does this mean? How can I decide my own fate when I reside in the city in which my father and people were mercilessly slaughtered? My magic would not work here, I needed find out more about why I was there.

It seemed my weapon hadn't followed me here, I searched through the slaughtered peasant's homes. To my surprise their bodies were still there, perhaps to further my torment. I found a spear made of wood and stone, nothing in comparison to my weapon, but it would suffice for now.

Travelling further into the city, I decided to go to the palace from which my family ruled for generations. The front gate was just as I remember, in pieces. The guards still lied dead on the floor, many of which I had great friendships with. I never did make peace with what happened to my family and kingdom, this didn't make things any better. Seeing the innocents' and guards' bodies brought back memories of our desperate fight, I was the only known survivor. A ruler of great ambition invaded my father's kingdom, desiring only to rule the entire land, uncaring of who he hurt, much like Nobunaga and Cao Cao. This 'Lord' had already taken much of the land by force, because my father was happy to keep his people happy by ruling only a small region, we were vastly outnumbered. I should have been among the dead, if not for Zuo Ci, I would have been.

He told me I still had much to do, much to achieve, which is when he gave me the tags, to use whenever I needed them. He told me if I died here, many more lives would be lost. Now I see why, had I not been at Anegawa at that exact time, Nagamasa and Kanetsugu would have been killed, along with all of their men. It was then he told me of Orochi, and that I was one of the many warriors who would be chosen to fight him. Fighting my way out of the city, I was surprised at how many soldiers fell to my blade, Zuo Ci's gift was powerful indeed. Afterwards, I decided not to go back into the city, I had already seen what happened to my family and people, one look was all I needed. I vowed never to return, and to travel and make myself stronger.

The tags would take me to various locations, I never had strong bonds with any of the masters I trained with, until I met Ma Chao. Most other masters I had considered me as just a pupil, Ma Chao considered me a friend. Unable to ignore Ma Chao's just nature, I allowed myself to have a friend for the first time in years. Some time after, Zuo Ci appeared and informed me that Ma Chao would also be a warrior chosen to fight Orochi. Is that why I had to survive?

Now back to the hell I was in, I entered the nearly destroyed palace. The corridors were very worn, it would have been hard to believe that this hellish place used to be a city of stunning beauty, rivalled only by the palace in which my father ruled. I came to the throne room, the door shattered, I saw a figure inside! I readied the spear I had found, and demanded the figure reveal himself. He turned around... It was my father! But how?! By now I was shaking, staring in disbelief. He told me I was not dead, I was in a Nexus somewhere between the land of the living and the afterlife. I was among the fortunate few who had the opportunity to change fate, if I succeeded I would be returned to the very spot I was cut down, if I failed, however, I would remain in that place forever, unable to die.

My father told me I was here because i was favoured very highly by one of great power and great influence on the heavens, therefore the Gods had given me the opportunity to prove myself. It must have been Zuo Ci, I couldn't let his good deed go to waste! I will succeed! However, I didn't even know what I had to do to succeed. Just as I was about to ask my father what I needed to do, another dark figure came from the ground and cut him down where he stood!

Enraged beyond measure, I challenged the being to a duel to the death. There was no colour to this figure, only black, with a white aura around him, and pure white eyes. Something about him looked familiar, however, I sensed I had great hatred towards this person, but I didn't know why. Putting my uncertaincy aside, I attacked with a fury greater than I even knew I had, this being also used a spear, though his was the same as him, dark and no design. Something about the way he fought was familiar too, but I was too angry to concern myself with that. He repeatedly repelled me and beat me to the ground, I got back up every time, unwilling to let myself give up. He didn't attack me, nor did he even try to kill me, he was just defending himself. He had multiple opportunities to do it, but he never took them.

I demanded to know who I was fighting, with a warped, but familiar voice, he told me I was his greatest enemy, and did not speak another word. I still fought on, being bested with every attack I made. I caught sight of my reflection in his eyes. Then it hit me... I knew why I recognized the voice, the fighting style, the figure and why I had so much hatred for him. I stopped my attack, moments later I heard Zuo Ci's voice behind me...

You now know who you are fighting with, who and what that figure is, yes?

Putting the spear down, and kneeling down, I replied...

Yes master. This is a metaphor for my internal struggle. This being is a physical representation of all the things I hate about myself... The battle I fight with my darker side is a battle I fight inside every day. Now I can see what I must do to pass.

I bowed before the figure, accepting defeat, he also bowed, before disappearing. I had finally made peace with myself.

Was I right to assume you were the reason I was able change my fate?

Yes, you have a much bigger destiny to fulfill than this.

What is my destiny? I cannot rest knowing I have a great purpose to fulfill and don't know what it is.

He gave a slight smile

That's the idea...

With that I blinked, and in that instant, awoke at the very spot I was cut down...

Damn that was long, but I much prefer to do it at half 1 in the afternoon that half 3 in the morning .

Sorry for worrying you guys, but I don't intend to leave just yet

Let's do this

---

Yoshimoto and Sleva was walking through the muddy streets of the little village. Over the last couple of days, huge wars had imerged all over the lands. The peacefull village of Shinsu fields remained untouched. It came to the attention of Yoshimoto and Sleva, that by obtaining the peoples praise they could stop the wars by making the soldiers under each army stop fighting. What were the warriors fighting for? No one knew, everyone seemed to be fighting for themselves. Orochi seemed to be no longer needed in this world. He had already created chaos.
It was still early in the morning. Fishermen came floating down the rivers on their prams delivering fish to the poor people in the village. The water was clear and blue today, and under the high cliffs surrounding Shinsu it almost seemed like a dream. The sun was merely shining over the Ou-Kia mountain in the horizon, leaving the village swimming in a faint yellow light. Children was running forth and back over the fiels, you could see red, blue and green kites soarce high above the ground. The old ladies sat infront of their doors, carefully laughing to each other and pointing at the handsome young men walking about. All seemed to harmonical and peacefull in the village, and the entertainers whom arrived yesterday surely didn't decrease the mood.

To the peacefulv village a gentle group of musicians and performers had arrived. Okuni of Izumo, the seduceress Sleva and Yoshimoto had ran into the other day, Motochika Chosokabe of Shikoku, the poet and musician and Zhang Jiao, the self-proclaimed prophet. Music and dance was spread over the hills as they performed in the centre of the village.

"My lord, these performers might be the ones we need to win the heart of the people and end these wars."

"That might be so. But I have a very importan meating today." Yoshimoto said as he looked around him. The children running by left a smile on his face.

"Yes... You're gunna meat up with that hooded wannabe Kenshin arent' you? I tell you, my love, if you want the Takeda and the Uesugi on your side, joining forces with Kenshin to overthrow Shingen is not the right way..."

"Oh jiverish. You know that it will all work out for the better."

Sleva and Yoshimoto continued walking through the village. Soon they were at the other side, facing the green fields and valleys.

"Kenshin should be here soon!"

Yoshimoto said and smiled.

"I am already here."

A voice said. Sleva and Yoshimoto turned around.
From the shadows of the village gates a tall built man in a white outfit stepped out. On his back was a large sword, covered with perfectly placed spikes, a work of art. Yoshimoto smiled again.

"So do we have a deal? Hmm? Hmm?"

"No"

The man said and looked to the ground.

"In two days I'm going to fight my nemesis on these fields. I want the Imagawa and the villagers out of here by then. This battle will be between me and Shingen. Yoshimoto, scram!"

"Wha-!"
"Wait. The Imagawa can surely vanish from this place. But the villagers. There is only two places in these fields were it is proper to build up a main camp. It's on the high cliffs to the north, and the cliffs to the west. The Takeda army will hava the western cliffs won't they?"

"supposingly yes!"

"You can not do that. You will leave the villagers trapped in the centre. Surrounding these fields is water. The west and the north is the only ways out. I will not allow you to wage war on these fields."

"Pity. Because sadly, you do not have the power to demand such a thing. The battle will take place. And it will taka place here. If you and the villagers aren't gone by tomorrow, I will spare no men annhialating you all."



---

It was done. an unavoidable war had suddenly struck the village. Trapped between the Uesugi and the Takeda there was no way the villagers could escape. That next morning, was going to be a bloody one.

---

That evening Yoshimoto and Sleva sat in their quarters. After hours of silence and panic among the villagers Yoshimoto turned to Sleva and asked nervously:

"Love, how do you intend to fend of both the forces of Uesugi and the Takeda?"

"I'm not. They are going to fend of themselves. Yoshimoto. How many men do you have in your command."

"3500 roughly. But that's not enough to fend of the immense power of the other forces. Scouts say that the Uesugi has a vast army, with a number stretching somewhere in-between 10000 and 20000. While the Takeda, yet greatly outnumbered by the Uesugi has an army of 5000 with a cavalary of a thousand."

"We will win tomrrows battle... I assure you."

With that Sleva stormed out the door, leaving his beloved alone on the bed side. Sleva walked over the muddy earth and headed towards the village gates. The sun had just disapeared again, leaving a last touch of pink in the sky. It almost looked dark purple. At the gates he met a group of Imagawa soldiers, along with some villagers and the entertainers.

"I'm glad you could all be here."

Sleva said and took out his brush.

"Me, Okuni and Zhang Jiao will help out your outnumbered troops. Anything to defend this village."

Said Motochika while carefully fingering his Shamisen.

"yeees. Let the enemy come. They will face the wrath of the gods."

"Pshaw. I'm just into this because of the pretty men... I love to see muscles."

"Surely you have all heard about the crisis facing us. But I have a plan. Listen carefully..."


---

The next morning Kenshin Uesugi rode his white steed to the top of the northern hills. The sun was yet again shining over the mountain, leaving the village in a yellow light. The Takeda army had yet to arrive. So the Uesugi had some time to remove the village from the face of this earth before they arrived. Yoshimoto and Sleva walked up to fields north of the village. Behind them was the Imagawa army, aswell as volunteer villagers.

The stage was all set. Sleva looked calmly at the Uesugi army, he had this entire battle planned out.

Even though he was not the greatest of strategist, Sleva had a strategy which could save the village.

The Uesugi had the high ground. A huge army, stretching from the Ninge-Chi bay to the corner of niiroyama. The Uesugi also had a detatched unit in the rice fiels at the feet of Ou-Kia Mountain in the west. 18000 men. The Uesugi greatly outnumbered the small forces of the Imagawa.

"Hold the defences men, whoever charges first is going to loose. Send a messenger to Zhang Jiao in the east to wait for my signal, send another one to Ujizane and Okuni at aoisawa to stay stationed until the Uesugi moves. "

Sleva slashed his brush out.

"The Uesugi has a large defence. And if we charge through the centre they can easily surround us. But the centre is also the weakest place. If this all go according to plan... we can win this."

The Village inwhich Singe was born was a ordinary village with unordinary people. Many chosen were born here. Only few would make it to become gods. The "parents" of the chosen were made to train the chosen in the ways of the gods and there powers. Of course to show you Singe's life we would have to fast forward... to when he was only 7 years old. He already discovered his power of the wind.

"Father I can't do that! Its impossible noone can teleport." Singe pleaded.

"You fool.. nothing is impossible for a god! The chosen have a chance to become gods! Don't you want to become a god?!"

"Father yes but..."

"No buts... many of these parents will teach their chosen all the elements... You cannot truly all the elements. Which is why... you will learn one. And truly master that one element."

Those words alway echoed in his mind. Unable to truly master every element.

-----------------------

Years later Singe now at the age of 12 would be pretty knowledable of his element. Wind. But to meet who he would today was not what the gods had planned.

"I'm going to go train father!" Singe said as he ran out the door.

He made it to his usual training spot and immediatly began sending wind orbs into a tree causiing tiny dents.

"You are a wind chosen?" A voice said behind Singe.

"Umm... yeah? Who are you." Singe studied the man. He looked somewhat like a snake. But he was wielding a humongous scythe.

"My name is... Orochi... But please I plead with you do not tell anyone I am here."

"Why?"

"I am not allowed in the village of the chosen... not since... well nevermind."

"Wait... I heard stories of you... your the man who destroyed a whole chosen village! You killed all the chosen but like 10."

"Those 10 became... Fu Xi, Nu Wa, Da Ji, Sun Wukong, Taira No Kiyomori, Taigong Wang, Himiko, Ameratsu, and Susanoo."

"The one that banished you?"

"Heh... Yes."

"Why did you do it tho? why would you kill the other chosen?"

"My young friend one day you will see. You will see."

Little did Singe know he would see... He tried to deny it for many years... but one week everything within those seven days would change the life of Singe.

OOC: I only counted 9, who's the other one? Is it you?

CONTINUED!!! FROM ABOVE!!!

----------------------------

Singe was around 18 when he first met one of his closest friends. At first Singe thought he was weird always muttering stuff like.

"This shall be your death hehehehehe."

He soon realized that the boy was actually learning a new element. Death... Singe decided to approach him one day.

"Hey freak!"

"You dare call someone of my power a freak?"

"You dare call someone of my power a freak?" He said mockingly.

"Oh whats this a wise guy eh?" The boy then began chanting something summoning three zombies who would then attempt to attack Singe.

Singe quickly dodged each one and sent out a slicing wind cutting them to pieces.

"Pfft zombies is that the best you've got?!"

"You'd wish wouldn't you!"

Both chosen charged one another ready to strike the other when suddenly. A fire ball came scorching through the wind right infront of both. A group of 10 chosen stood infront mocking the two boys.

"What do you fools want?"

"Eh fools huh? Thats why you two are the lowest on the chosen list. Right? I mean come on... you two only mastered one element. Yours Spawn not even being an element. And Singe don't give me that crap about noone can truly master every element... cos I've done it."

This boy soon began to tug into Singe's mind.
----

Many years later days before the few chosen that would be upgraded to gods was going to be announced. Singe would meet with someone he hadn't seen for many years.

"Lord Orochi... I now know why you did what you did. It was out of anger at the others... people who think they can boss you around because they are stronger don't deserve... to live!"

"You finally understand now..." He suddenly pauses and turns to a bush. "Whoever you are you better get out of there... before I make you an enemy."

Spawn suddenly walks out.

"I understand also... death... those chosen must die!"

"In due time my children... Da Ji!"

Suddenly a woman appears that looks like a fox appears.

"Give these boys the weapons I have made for them."

Da Ji suddenly materializes a sword and scythe.

"Spawn... take these and strike down all who deserve death."

"And Singe... take this staff. And destroy any who oppose you."

---------

That very day Singe and Spawn moved to where the Chosen would be chose. All 25 stood there waiting. Singe and Spawn kept glancing at each other... Nodding every so often. When the first name was announced. Everyone looked awed.

"Spawn..."

Spawn smirked and walked towards the deity that had called his name.

"Singe..."

Singe also moved towards the deity.

"You two have been chosen for truly mastering an element. congratulations."

Suddenly a voice booms inside both Singe's and Spawn's head.

"This man! He was not supposed to survive that day... Funjin! god of wind! KILL HIM!"

Singe and Spawn both turn to each other. And smirk. Then grab their weapons and get ready for the slaughter.

Why everyone telling about their past? I want too!
Anyway, I'm lazy, you know... I want to make a flash back story, but I'm too lazy to type. Let's just make I'm amnesia...
Don't like, don't read This part isn't so important. Skip if you want.

_________________


Mystic was tired now. Her horse also share the same tiredness. It move slower and slower.

I'm sorry, ummm... mister Horse, but we shouldn't stop now. Lu Xun is in danger now.

But the horse stopped.

Oh well. You win. I'm tired too. Let's take a rest here, mister Horse.

Mystic sat and leaned against a big stone. The horse sat beside her.

You know, mister Horse? I'm always thinking of... my past.

Somehow, the horse gazed at her. From its eyes, Mystic could understand that it asked something. Why?

DAMMIT! I have talked to cloud, now I'm talking to a horse! She said and swore mentally. Oh, well. Who cares? I enjoy it.

The horse asked her once more. Why do you think about your past? What's wrong with it? Do you have a sad past?

No, it's not like that... It's just that I... I don't really have any past.

What do you mean? Asked the horse.

Well, something is not right about me. I don't remember my parents, my home, everything...

Then she started to tell the horse about it.


- FLASHBACK!!! -


Where... am I?

She opened her eyes. That was when she finally get up. She was in an infirmary.

Finally you're awake! Are you alright?

She felt dizzy, and her vision blurred.

I'm not. In fact, I'm not well at all.

Oh, well. Anyway, you're in the Wu infirmary. I'm the doctor here. What's your name?

She gasped. W-well, I don't remember. Who am I? What happen?

The doctor sighed. Your village was burnt. Everybody dead. You're lucky, one of the Wu officers found you dying there. He saved you and took you here.

The doctor gave an emphasize at 'dead'. But she didn't sad. She didn't remember anything!

Oh, I forget about it.

It's okay. Maybe you're too shocked or... you lost your memory.

No way!

Calm down! I will help you!

She stopped and thought for a second. If she remembered everything, then she must be so sad because all of them had already dead.

No, doctor. I think... I'd better don't recall anything. I don't want to find that everybody in my memory has been dead...

The doctor nodded. It's up to you, then. You should rest. I'm leaving. Then the doctor left the room.

And she was alone.

One hour, two hours past... and she still lied on her bed.

Who am I? Who am I? Who am I? She mumbled.

KNOCK! KNOCK!

Someone knocked the door and she turned to look at it. Who is there?! She asked, almost shouting.

The knocks stopped, then came the reply. It was male voice. I'm... ummm The voice paused. I found you in the village.

So, he's the one who saved me? She smiled inwardly and opened the door. He was...


- END OF FLASHBACK!!! -


LU XUN???!!! The horse asked. It was surprised.

Hey, I'm not joking! It's true. I saw that reddish orange attire. And his Eagles! AND THAT FUNNY HAT OF HIS!!! AND THAT CUTE FACE OF HIS!!!!!

The horse laughed when she said 'and the cute face of his'. You like him!

NO! It's not like that! I-I...

The horse giggled at her red face. Admit it.

Awww... shut the hell up! I'll continue.


- FLASHBACK!!! -


He smiled at her. The doctor has told me that you lost your memory. I know it's hard for you.

Nah, it's okay. She gave him a wide smile and cheerful face. I'm alright.

He smiled back at her. I'm so relived. Anyway, I'm Lu Xun. And you...

I don't know my name.

Then, what do you want me to call you?

She tilted her head. Up to you...

Well... He shrugged. I found you in the middle of raging blaze. All of the villagers dead. except you. You were lying there when I saw you. I saw something. Like a... barrier. It surrounded you and protect you from the fire. Mystical thing...

Really? Then she looked at her own body. No wounds at all.

Yes. He nodded. Well, I think I will call you... MysticBlaze.


- END OF FLASHBACK!!! -


Then I got a name. She smiled. Lu Xun chose it for me. I just remembered about him.

Wait. If he was the one who helped you... Why didn't he recognize you when you joined his army?

She pouted. YEAH! that's the problem! How could he forget me?! Well, two days after I arrived there, I escaped without gave any goodbye.

You're stupid. Why not?

Because I don't want to bother them. So I escaped. I was just twelve at that time. Then, I ran and arrived at a village. I lived there with a rich farmer. They adopted me. That time, my step-parents taught me how to be a farmer! She laughed.

Who knows now you're a warrior? The horse laughed too.

Well, I didn't enjoy it. So, every midnight after farming, I trained myself to be a warrior. Two years later, I ran home and... stole some daggers. After that, I joined Guan Yu. But he rejected me. Accidentally, I met Lu Xun. But... He didn't remember me! How could he...? It was just a short two years! He didn't even remember me when I tell him my name! He is the one who gave me that name!

He was busy. He's a strategist after all, not a lazy-bummer like you.

Yeah, you're right. Finally I joined him and became his personal bodyguard. Then, he gave me these! She showed her Twin Daggers.

He's a good master.

Indeed. I'm happy to have him as my master. He always helps me. When I'm alone, he always there for me...

He's not with you now. I know you feel alone... The horse said in sympathize tone.

Well, I know he's not here. But I'm not alone. I have you and the cloud. Wait. You and the cloud aren't suppose to be talk!

Why?

Because animal or thing can't speak.

I can, but you can't hear.

Don't say that... Lu Xun... he somehow make me able to talk with you and the cloud so I don't feel alone?

Possible.

So, Lu Xun cares so much about me. She said happily, without realize that a single tear had rolled to her cheeks. Lu Xun, where ever you are, thank you so much! She shouted to no one.

I think you should tell him that you were the girl he saved from the fire.

Of course! After we save him!

She stood up and they continue their journey.

_________________


Okay, I have told you: don't like, don't read...
This is boring. Yes, I know it...

Already told bout past. No time to bother here.

---

"You see Yoshimoto..."

Sleva said and turned to his beloved. The sun was still just shinning over the moantain, the sky was bright blue today, as if it was just another peacefull day.

"... I will win this battle."

Slevas eyes burned up with determination.

"You was defeated by the young Nobunaga Oda at Okehazama, right Yoshimoto?"

"Ye- yes?"

Yoshimoto muttered.

"Why did Nobunaga win? Why did the battles between Kenshin and Shingen always end in ties?"

Yoshimoto thought abit over the question. And only answered the second one.

"...because they know each other?"

"Yes! But after your death many things changed in Japan. Shingen died of illness, and the Takeda was crushed in bloodbath at Nagashino. Kenshin was defeated, and the old Japan as they knew it was gone. Do you think that Nobunaga used superior tactics or numbers to win, Yoshimoto?"

Sleva glanced over at the sky, holding firmly around his brush.

"H-he must have... there is no other wa-"

Before Yoshimoto could finnish the sentence Sleva turned and shouted.

"No!"

This time, you could almost see the fire in his eyes.

"Nobunaga thought one step ahead. His plans were new, unheard of. His plans and ways of war was new to all of Japan. He built Japan, he formed Japan. And now... I am going to do the same. I merged this world, it is only right that I take control of it.

The troops around Yoshimoto and Sleva started to whisper.

A tactic is only strong as long as the enemy doesn't see it coming. Kenshin, Shingen, you... you know it all by the book, that's why we'll do it the other way around."

Sleva took out a piece of paper and drew a line over it. Firmly and calmly a battle map appeared. The village, the Niingeshi, the Niiroyama, Shinshu fields. The Uesugi. The Imagawa.

"You see my love. Kenshin has this battle all planned out, just as us. But, Kenshin has the advantage of the terrain. Look-"

Sleva pointed at the hillside where the Uesugi banners could be seen.

"By occupying the entire hillside, the Uesugi has built themselves an unpenetratable defence. If we charge through the middle they will surround us, if we charge out on the flanks they will charge the village. Ambushes.

But as I said. A tactic needs the advantage of ignorance to have full effect. Thus strategies used multiple times gets predictable. It's like a fire attack. Use it once, and you'll be known through out the lands. Use it more then once and you'll be an easy target. The enemy will 'see it coming', thus we have the advantage Yoshimoto...
Zhuge Liang never used the same tactics for all battles. Those who do will loose. Like the Shimazu, they were known for being exellent in the ways of ambushes... but nothing else. By letting your men know this, they could easily search out and destroy potential ambush troops."

Yoshimoto looked up from the map and turned to Sleva. An evil grin formed in the vicious artists face, was this the ability Orochi saw in him?. Slevas left palm was placed at the corner of his map. A perfect map, as if it was drawn from the sky by birds.

"Kenshin has never fought us before. As with all the others facing Nobunaga. And by doing strategies which isn't used before we can win this before the Takeda gets here."

Sleva turned to his troops, and pointed.

Do you see how the troops are placed Yoshimoto.

Yoshimoto just looked at the troops, and having no skills in warfare he just saw men. Standing still.

"We have split our army in four groups. Leaving the east untouched. As soon as we move to the east Kenshin will simply charge from all side. Placing us dialogically from south to west is the safest way. We have four units. Our main army, here at the foot of the hills. A "reserve unit" behind those hills to the west, the only place unseen by Kenshin. We have a detached unit, lead by Ujizane and Okuni, abit further to the north..."

Yoshimoto looked at Sleva.

But weren't Okuni and Ujizane in the east just a minte ago?

Sleva smiled.

"They were... Zhang Jiao is even further north, guarding the city. He is placed at the foot of the hill... If Kenshin charges him he will leave his central unit untouched. "

"So that's our plan!"

Yoshimoto smiled, thinking that he had seen the greatness of Slevas so called self-proclaimed master plan.

"not quite Yoshimoto. Kenshin is to clever to deliberatly waste his troops on detached units which won't do any harm to him if they charge. Take a look at the map again. While you look at it I'll explain our formation."

The wind blew across the battlefield, the army banners looked like the kites which were flying the other day. Yellow and White. The village was empty, all women and children had escaped further up into the hills. No one had moved as of yet. It was still in the early beginning of a major battle. And as both Sleva and Kenshin knew after observing one another: 'whoever charged first would loose'.

Yoshimoto bent over the map once again.



"There is a few things I have prepared that you can not see on that map Yoshimoto. This is just our current placements. Do you see the troops behind the hill down there to the left?"

Yoshimoto nodded.

"Those will act as reserves... and our main power.
The things you can't see on the map is how things will look in the end. It's like with tactics. You can see the troops, but you can't see the plan. If you however have a suspicion on how the troops may act though you are one step ahead of them. I, do not know how Kenshin plans this battle, but being dramatically over armed should leave him very arrogant. He suspects ambushes, so we will stray away from those. Ambushes is the only effective way against large numbers, but under these surroundings, we do not have the field nor the men to risk an ambush.
Here is my trumph card Yoshimoto."

Sleva pointed at the troops standing behind them.

"Until now, modern warfare has made it so that increasing the defence in the flanks would be the best way of attacking the enemy. It is indeed. But! When all forces have defences on the flanks it will make the battle turn into an endless hack and slash were numbers decides the outcome. I, however, have another plan. Kenshin does not suspect weakened flanks, and thus he will charge us through the centre most likely. If we increase our defences in the middle and weaken the flanks we have a chance to make a stand.
but that's not all.
We have divided our troops into minor groups, meaning that Kenshin would either have to split his huge army in two, or charge at one of us at a time. If he as much as moves 25% of his army, for example towards Zhang Jiao as mentioned, his troops will be left in a dragged out formation with a weak centre.
And here's the last thing Yoshimoto. Our officers. Our officers are now not higher statured warriors like the Uesugi officers, but on the other hand regular soldiers and villagers. By showing that you do not have to be rich and strong to be an officer will increase our morale and decrease the chances for an unwanted defection.
"

Sleva looked to the sky and smiled.

"I am waiting for you, Kenshin!"


---

*phew* next! It's battle time!

Nice tactics Sleva. I'm no strategist but they are good plans.

When I awoke I saw my allies sigh in relief.
Ma Chao was the first to speak:

We thought we lost you.

Lets just say I was helped by an old friend. I replied.

When such a righteous warrior is mercilessly cut down fate would be a fool to allow him to die.
Kanetsugu spoke wise words.

Nagamasa spoke for the first time since I awoke.
Come then, let us build our own army and prepare for the battle to come, surely those demons cannot be finished.

He was right, however, great warriors though we were, none of us were fit to lead an army alone. If we were to succeed, we must lead the army together. Ma Chao and Nagamasa have lead armies before, but both were defeated. Kanetsugu was a skilled tactician, however none of us could match the lords and strategists such as Nobunaga and Zhuge Liang. If we were to stand a chance, we had to rally as many warriors to our cause as we could.
One of my scouts reported back to me.

My lord. I heard you were killed.

I nearly was, but a friend was watching over me.

The men will be delighted! I have returned from a journey after discovering that lord 5rings wishes to build himself an army and is searching for potential allies.

My eyes lit up.

My old ally! We must search for him, I already had to abandon his request for an alliance once, I refuse to do it again.

As much as I have enjoyed fighting alongside you all, I must return to my master, my allegiance first belonged to the Uesugi.

As much as it saddens me that you will be leaving, I must commend your loyalty. I only hope Kenshin is a lord worthy of such a warrior as you.

Thank you, I will not forget your bravery and sense of honor and justice. Spear Master, Ma Chao, Azai Nagamasa, I believe in you all.

I cannot allow you to go alone, I will accompany you to ensure your safe arrival, that is if the two of you don't mind.

Anything to ensure you have more chance of survival.

Ma Chao's right. You two make a great team, together you will have all the strength you need. Hopefully the same will apply for us. When we have found 5rings, we will request an alliance with Lord Kenshin

We will do the same on our part. We will meet again, my friends.

With that, Kanetsugu and Nagamasa headed off in search of the Uesugi. I never did learn of how Kanetsugu was separated from his lord, I just hope he reunites with his allies and friends. We turned around and set off on our own journey.

What now my lords?

Simple. We will find Lord 5rings and offer our services to him. Were you able to discover where he is based?

Yes my lord, as always, I do the very best I can.

Do me a favour would you? Do not address me as your lord anymore, nor Spear Master, simply call me Gary.

Of course my l.. erm I mean Gary.

I smiled at my scout and Ma Chao smiled at me, seeing I was now able to trust others with my real name. My spirits higher than ever, we set of in search of my old friend and ally, 5rings...

FYI, yes that is my real name

Artirtico

Artirtico had taken the opportunity to rest the army after the last war against Orga's demons. It so happened that one of Zhu Rong's amazonesses spoke a little norwegion so the recent name change to Syn was ignored, for the troops, making Syn sound much less demonic having an ordinary female name. Still, he would always be Spawn to Artirtico, who was now oblivious to the trials Syn was undertaking.

After Syn had departed, 5Rings and Musashi left to train a new recruit in the ways of 'angelism'. Perhaps there was hope of beating Syn yet!?

It wasn't long before Zhao Yun and Zhang Liao reported back with an easy victory over the demon troops at Ji Province. The Syn clone, Mystic or Spear Master however were not to be found. With this lack of information, Artirtico didn't really have much choice of what to do next, so the resting began.

In this time, Artirtico managed to catch up with what was happening in the lands of Nan, talking to Zhu Rong.

"My Meng Huo has been corrupted", she said coolely yet enraged at the same time. "He no longer wants me, caring only for the power Orochi is giving him. My ladies and I decided to break free from Orochi's service, taking the elephants with us before Orochi was able to learn how to use them effectively. We managed to rescue Mulu, Duosi and Wu Tugu as we escaped, granting us the control of the beasts, the poisons from the lakes and our inpenetrable armour, all of which have saved our lives on many occasions...and now, here we are. Once again I sit before you Artirtico, yet this time unattached to another man..."

Any further conversation was halted however as Lu Meng arrived at Artirtico's side. "The meeting shall begin now", he said simply.

Any formality was quickly destroyed soon after the meeting had begun, with Zhao Tong and Zhang Hu entering the conference tent with a dozen or so of the amazonesses in toe, every one of them seemingly wearing as few items of clothing as possible. The ladies began belly dancing, causing many of the male generals to gawp as they watched the giration of hips. Kings Mulu and Duosi, Wu Tugu, Zhao Yun, Zhao Tong, Zhang Liao, Zhang Hu, Wang Ping and Li Dian were soon on their feet dancing with the amazonesses. Lu Meng also appeared to want to join in but only had eyes for Zhu Rong, something which she appeared to notice so shimied her way across the room in his direction. Only Ma Dai sat with Artirtico, ready and alert to any command he may recieve. Artirtico told him to go and enjoy himself so he got up, but instead of joining in, went to groom his horse. Brief glances regularly passed between Artirtico and Zhu Rong, both seemingly waiting for something to draw them closer together.

After what Artirtico presumed was hours, the dancing gradually wound down. Many of the amazonesses left arm in arm with newly found men to spend the night with, naughty grins plastered over their faces. Zhu Rong left with Zhao Yun and Zhang Liao in toe, both already having asked to spend the night with her and having been rejected, but still they persisted. In a bid to escape the lustful generals, Zhu Rong grabbed Artirtico's arm and pushed past them both, dragging Artirtico along behind and quickly entered a tent. Lu Meng who was watching nearby didn't look too happy about that at all.

Inside the tent, Zhu Rong smiled at Artirtico, "A good night", she whispered. "Our allies may be in trouble and that's all you're thinking about?", was the reply. "You know you enjoyed yourself", Zhu Rong said in a teasing tone, "but even so, you and the army needed rest. Tomorrow there'll be plenty of time to go searching"

Artirtico couldn't answer back to that so sat gazing into her deep eyes, losing himself within the emotion they carried. Perhaps then was the right time to make a move but then again perhaps not. She was with Lu Meng all night anyway...He quickly looked away and settled down to sleep immediately, without removing his armour in his haste to find a way to escape her eyes. Zhu Rong just smiled as if understanding before she too, slept.

Dawn woke the troops the next morning. Zhu Rong announced that her Nan forces would be leaving, heading back towards where Meng Huo resided to try and win him or at least some of his troops round. She however had decided that she wanted to stay where she was so instructed the three Nan generals to seek her brother Dalai Dongzhu out to ask him to command their forces in the attempt to free Meng Huo from Orochi's control. The Nan forces departed save Zhu Rong, her small elite guard amazoness unit and their elephants whom she had decided would be handy if they ever ran into Orga's forces again, remembering how poorely they had been able to fight back against them last time.

Lu Meng put forward the suggestion of splitting the army in the search for any allies in need or resistances to overcome, which was accepted, so Zhao Yun and Zhang Liao, with their sons and lead commanders left Artirtico, Lu Meng, Zhu Rong and Ma Dai to begin the march together. Both armies would remain in close proximity, messengers moving too and fro, but still as separate units to cover more ground. What would be found?

-----

I wasn't quite sure where to fit in with anyone else so just stuck with 'npc' forces It was fun writing something rather different anyway