Zhao Yue's Audience Hall - Shangdang

[Xu Fu]

A horseman rides through the morning mist and with a thunderous thump dismounts. He hails the guards to do their duty as he calls out:
"I am Xu Fu, do your duty and escort me to your Lord. Should I be so ingratiated to his throne." The rider makes proper salutations and respects the guards.

[Adranis]

"Lin," Laoxin said a bit sternly, even though his gaze was as soft as ever. "Good to see you around. Something you need?" he asked, though secretly he knew what the purpose of this visit was.

After being searched properly, Qiao Lin brushed her robes off with a dainty yet slightly arrogant movement in swiftness, nodding her head in acknowledgement of the guard crew before following the other into the audience hall. It was no surprise to her, the surroundings were definitive and the decorations matched the specific taste that Laoxin's palette had in style and all other aspects of his life. When brought before him, she smiled softly yet discreetly as she kneeled before him and made eye contact.

"I believe the question is, is there something that you need," she said slyly. "I've been absent for the few months, but in that time I've raised my influence here even more, and I have found a new mentor that is of great use to the furthering of my own advancement. But now I've returned to Wei, and lo and behold, my dearest friend is sitting in a seat of power, and now I am the one humbled." The smile did not fade as she moved her head, the golden trinkets in her silky hair jingling as she returned her gaze to his youthful face. "You have been my closest friend for years, Laoxin. It is time that I'm serviced to you and your desires, don't you think so?"

[GreenFabre]

<table border="1" cellspacing="5" cellpadding="5" width="100%" align="left" bgcolor="#C3FDB8"><tr><td align="center" bgcolor="#C3FDB8">

A horseman rides through the morning mist and with a thunderous thump dismounts. He hails the guards to do their duty as he calls out:
"I am Xu Fu, do your duty and escort me to your Lord. Should I be so ingratiated to his throne." The rider makes proper salutations and respects the guards.

<font color="green">((Unchained Phoenix is quite busy so I would help him with this lo~)


Captain: "Surely," the guard captain said in a gruff voice,
"But you'll need to submit to a couple searches. Do you consent to this?"

((Should Xu Fu agree, the captain would then give the signal for the guards lo~))

The gate guards nodded, searching the man and removing all suspicious and malicious items.
"These will be returned to you upon your departure," the captain simply stated, signaling for the men beyond to open up the gates.

Xu Fu would then be directed to the entrance guards, who again patted him down and removed anything threatening they could find.
With the two searches completed, it was time to enter the Administration Building of Shangdang.

The entire first floor of the complex was dedicated to audiences, what with all of the suites for exalted officials located higher up in the building.
The walls were like a maze, painted with dragons and symbols and all sorts of things.
Though sliding doors were hidden throughout where men and women alike conducted their daily business.

Eventually, they were taken to the opposite side of the floor where they were motioned to remove their shoes.

A tall slender woman was standing in front of a big door of what seemed to be a large room.
A massive two-handed axe in front of her in an upright position, clawed metal gloves resting on the top of its handle.
Two other female guards, dressed in heavy armor, flanked her from both sides, looking at the newcomer with a feigned look of interest.

???: "Please wait here. You will be properly... "introduced"."

The tall woman settled on watching Xu Fu with a pair of unnatural white eyes, burning with the glazed look of annoyance, as she began to make a disturbing smile . . .

((Unchained Phoenix would take it from over here lo~)
</font>
</td></tr></table>

[Xu Fu]

The security surely had tightened in Shang Dang. Guessing because of the open rebellion going on. Xu entered and complied with the searches maintaining an understanding gaze. His gaze became somewhat puzzled as to the women. He first thought witches, but then he recalled a tale of warrior women who weilded great strength. Lord Yue must have summoned these wariors for his personal protection xu thought.
Xu waits and keeps his eye's low listening carefully.

*Nods*

[Unchained Phoenix]

"Yes. I am consent for any search."

The gate guards nodded, searching the man and removing all suspicious and malicious items. "These will be returned to you upon your departure," the captain simply stated, signaling for the men beyond to open up the gates. Yuan Rui would then be directed to the entrance guards, who again patted him down and removed anything threatening they could find. With the two searches completed, it was time to enter the Administration Building of Shangdang.

The entire first floor of the complex was dedicated to audiences, what with all of the suites for exalted officials located higher up in the building. The walls were like a maze, painted with dragons and symbols and all sorts of things, though sliding doors were hidden throughout where men and women alike conducted their daily business. Eventually, they were taken to the opposite side of the floor where they were motioned to remove their shoes, the doors then sliding open to reveal a large room with plenty of decor. The room was painted a golden hue, with small statues and intricately crafted antiques dotting the perimeter. Opposite the red rug in the center of the room was a raised platform equipped with two steps. Behind this platform was a draped tapestry that had a poem woven in, speaking of a new spring and the joys that are brought with it. The focus was not on this literature, however; it was on the man sitting crosslegged on his own floor mat on this platform.

"A visitor," the man stated, observing Yuan Rui as he motioned for him to sit on the placemat opposite him. He rested his wrists on the knees of his folded legs, eyes resting on his guest. Once tea was served, he addressed Rui. "So what brings you to my city today? An invitation?" he asked, not yet learning the identity of this man.

An hesitant Ci Ha replied to his host.

Ci Ha Maybe my honorable host, can explain to me the political point of view ofnthe Shang Dang administration about the situation in the province of Wei and the neighbouring provinces? Especially about these rogue militias who seems to have grow like bad weed in a field?

Ci Ha paused.

Ci Ha Or maybe my honorable host is too busy to inform an humble servant?

"I'm obviously not too busy, as my time is being occupied by this 'humble servant'. Fret not for any time lost," the Prefect responded smoothly, running a hand through his feathered hair as he observed him with chocolate. "Political relations are secure with the northern forces, but it is a concern of mine that the new groups here in Wei may band together to overtake the untouched lands. The conquest of Shou Yang also bothers me somewhat, but by no means did I expect to claim the entirety of Wei without a challenge. Surely my resources will be tested by these new threats, but marinating in preoccupation is indeed a waste of time. My political view is simply to choose both my friends and foes carefully. It will make or break my new establishment here."

Rin shook her head and put her hands on her hips. "I think we got it backwards. Let's do this again." Giving a long bow Rin stopped mid way through and looked up at Zhao Yue "I'm Sun Rin of Feiqui, what can I do for 'you' Prefect?"

"You can join me," the Prefect said quite honestly, cracking his fingers as he observed the woman with a stoic expression. "Your cunning and talents would come in handy here in Wei; gender and age aren't an issue. I look past physicalities to see what lies underneath the surface; a girl who could catapult me towards immortality. It would surely be a valuable asset what with all of those men out there who would seek to claim my life. I have to look both ways to cross the street," Laoxin mentioned airily, as if this was some sort of extreme that he didn't know he would reach. "But of course, you probably have questions for me before making such a decision. Ask away."

Jiang Bao nods and said "Seach away boss. I have nothing to hide. I hope to meet your big boss soon. So that we can solve this issues soon."

The gate guards nodded, searching the man and removing all suspicious and malicious items. "These will be returned to you upon your departure," the captain simply stated, signaling for the men beyond to open up the gates. Jiang Bao would then be directed to the entrance guards, who again patted him down and removed anything threatening they could find. With the two searches completed, it was time to enter the Administration Building of Shangdang.

The entire first floor of the complex was dedicated to audiences, what with all of the suites for exalted officials located higher up in the building. The walls were like a maze, painted with dragons and symbols and all sorts of things, though sliding doors were hidden throughout where men and women alike conducted their daily business. Eventually, they were taken to the opposite side of the floor where they were motioned to remove their shoes, the doors then sliding open to reveal a large room with plenty of decor. The room was painted a golden hue, with small statues and intricately crafted antiques dotting the perimeter. Opposite the red rug in the center of the room was a raised platform equipped with two steps. Behind this platform was a draped tapestry that had a poem woven in, speaking of a new spring and the joys that are brought with it. The focus was not on this literature, however; it was on the man sitting crosslegged on his own floor mat on this platform.

The young and handsome leader simply smirked as Jiang Bao entered the room. He just barely inclined his head to offer a seat before him, not saying a word as he would let Bao start the meeting.

stuff!

Laoxin continued to blink dumbfoundedly at the innuendo taking place in his own chambers, but it was no matter. Some comedic relief could prove to be helpful in the coming months. "Very well. Take back to the entrance and your belongings will be returned. Your first assignment should come within a week. Welcome to Shangdang."

Pan Rui and Jin Zhen have been accepted to the ranks of Shangdang!
(OI posts please!)

After being searched properly, Qiao Lin brushed her robes off with a dainty yet slightly arrogant movement in swiftness, nodding her head in acknowledgement of the guard crew before following the other into the audience hall. It was no surprise to her, the surroundings were definitive and the decorations matched the specific taste that Laoxin's palette had in style and all other aspects of his life. When brought before him, she smiled softly yet discreetly as she kneeled before him and made eye contact.

"I believe the question is, is there something that you need," she said slyly. "I've been absent for the few months, but in that time I've raised my influence here even more, and I have found a new mentor that is of great use to the furthering of my own advancement. But now I've returned to Wei, and lo and behold, my dearest friend is sitting in a seat of power, and now I am the one humbled." The smile did not fade as she moved her head, the golden trinkets in her silky hair jingling as she returned her gaze to his youthful face. "You have been my closest friend for years, Laoxin. It is time that I'm serviced to you and your desires, don't you think so?"

Zhao Laoxin smirked. Qiao Lin truly knew how to hit him in the right places, what with her mannerisms and own natural charisma. Surely, she would prove to be an invaluable resource to wield. "Yes, I do think so. Sounds like you have a new occupation, Lin. Welcome to Shangdang."

Qiao Lin has been accepted to the ranks of Shangdang!
(OI in mah thread pleez.)

"Living the military life... hah. It'll be interesting to see how far your cunning takes you. I assume you want your own private suite here in the AB? You can pick one out whenever you want, though I suggest you do so quickly. They're selling like hotcakes," said the Prefect with a keen smile.

The security surely had tightened in Shang Dang. Guessing because of the open rebellion going on. Xu entered and complied with the searches maintaining an understanding gaze. His gaze became somewhat puzzled as to the women. He first thought witches, but then he recalled a tale of warrior women who weilded great strength. Lord Yue must have summoned these wariors for his personal protection xu thought.
Xu waits and keeps his eye's low listening carefully.

*Nods*

(thank you Green!)

"Bring him in," a voice called out from behind the security detachment, and eventually the guest was motioned inside, the doors sliding shut behind him. The room glowed a haunting gold, yet it seemed to be warm and comfortable enough. A lean and robed man sat crosslegged before the assembly, dark eyes calculating the situation with every passing second. He didn't say a single word, however, as he would let the guest state his purpose beforehand.

[Adranis]

Zhao Laoxin smirked. Qiao Lin truly knew how to hit him in the right places, what with her mannerisms and own natural charisma. Surely, she would prove to be an invaluable resource to wield. "Yes, I do think so. Sounds like you have a new occupation, Lin. Welcome to Shangdang."

Qiao Lin has been accepted to the ranks of Shangdang!
(OI in mah thread pleez.)

"Living the military life... hah. It'll be interesting to see how far your cunning takes you. I assume you want your own private suite here in the AB? You can pick one out whenever you want, though I suggest you do so quickly. They're selling like hotcakes," said the Prefect with a keen smile.

The courtier shook her head, her eyes fluttering as they closed momentarily, giving her the arrogant appearance that he was so familiar with, the same that he could utilize to take the province and rule it with such skill and knowledge - it was about time that Laoxin had experienced the sweet tastes of power, much as he had deserved it all along, more than she at least. "A private suite...you do know how to spoil. Plus there's still that 100 taels I loaned you...but I'm sure one closest to you is still open, and worth more to me than the money, of course," Lin smirked. "And as for command and military, I don't think it'll be a problem. Your men won't have trouble bowing to my whim - be it from my own feminine prowess or the sharpness I always command with another," she said with a smile to match his own. "Take me as yours, Laoxin. We have much to discuss..."

[ancientRED]

A handsome young noble of means and propriety rode through the streets of Shangdang upon a fine steed of snowy white coat and regal stance. Everything abouth this man exuded a particular aura of command and power that the common folk were want to touch even the hem of his coat in hopes that a bit of his greatness would rub off upon themselves. Truly you could not find more than a handful of such men throughout all of China.

Approaching the guards of the administrative complex with all the gusto of a triumphant general leading a victory parade through the city he ran one hand through his perfectly groomed jet-black hair and made the other to point to the nearest soldier.

"Lo! You there! There is a man here who wishes to speak to your master, Lord Zhao Yue." The man called in such a clear, commanding tone that if the guards were to strain their ears just so they may hear the ringing of silvery bells.

[tlenoi]

Yuan Rui could not help but smirk a little. The guy who had invited him to here did not recognize him at all. He then bowed to Zhao Yue.

"Lord Zhao, you may not remember that you were the one who sent me the invitation letter to here. Anyway, thank you for your invitation. I would like to discuss some issue about the current situation in Wei, as it might determine my further action. So what are you up to at this point, lord Zhao?"

[GreenFabre]

<table border="1" cellspacing="5" cellpadding="5" width="100%" align="left" bgcolor="#C3FDB8"><tr><td align="center" bgcolor="#C3FDB8">

A handsome young noble of means and propriety rode through the streets of Shangdang upon a fine steed of snowy white coat and regal stance. Everything abouth this man exuded a particular aura of command and power that the common folk were want to touch even the hem of his coat in hopes that a bit of his greatness would rub off upon themselves. Truly you could not find more than a handful of such men throughout all of China.

Approaching the guards of the administrative complex with all the gusto of a triumphant general leading a victory parade through the city he ran one hand through his perfectly groomed jet-black hair and made the other to point to the nearest soldier.

"Lo! You there! There is a man here who wishes to speak to your master, Lord Zhao Yue." The man called in such a clear, commanding tone that if the guards were to strain their ears just so they may hear the ringing of silvery bells.

<font color="green">A burly middle aged man in armor turned his head at the sound of ringing bells and horses.
He made a slight smile at the voice of the young noble, perhaps remembering something back in his good old days.

Captain: "An audience with the lord, eh?" the guard captain said in a gruff voice.
"Aye, what be yer name, good sir? You'll need to submit to a couple searches before that, yes?"

((Should the young noble agree, the captain would then give the signal for the guards lo~))

The gate guards nodded, searching the man and removing all suspicious and malicious items.
"These will be returned to you upon your departure," the captain simply stated, signaling for the men beyond to open up the gates.

The man would then be directed to the entrance guards, who again patted him down and removed anything threatening they could find.
With the two searches completed, it was time to enter the Administration Building of Shangdang.

The entire first floor of the complex was dedicated to audiences, what with all of the suites for exalted officials located higher up in the building.
The walls were like a maze, painted with dragons and symbols and all sorts of things.
Though sliding doors were hidden throughout where men and women alike conducted their daily business.

Eventually, they were taken to the opposite side of the floor where they were motioned to remove their shoes.
Just as a husky voice suddenly erupted from behind him, the sound of whispering ghosts touching his ears.

???: "Nice hair... so..pretty..what's your name, hmm?"

The voice asked, giggling softly in melodious tones as the scent of roses overwhelmed the air around the young noble . . . </font>
</td></tr></table>

[ancientRED]

((The young noble agrees to nothing!))

The man raises a single finger to halt the guards.

"Tut, tut. You misunderstand me, good sirs." He chortled derisively as his steed steps to the side revealing a haunched figure in a tattered, dirt clumped robe.

"Ah ha, thank you lad for showing me here." There were no bells or any such lovely things as the older man stepped forward, placing his weight on a gnarled walking stick whose steady report upon the stone underneath matched the timing of his slow steps.

His work done the noble bows politely to the assembled and trots off at a casual pace in the other direction, singing a boastful song of great ability and missed opportunity as he goes.

"Ah ha. Nice enough lad, a bit off mind you." The rough older man laughed softly to himself as he turned to the guards. "Now then, my name is Bi Shengtu and I got this lovely letter from one Fu Guan inviting me here to meet your Lord. If you feel you must search a hoary old bastard like me then by all means, go ahead."