Fantasy The Nations of Anan

Tianshui Imperial Palace: Fledglings Uncaged

“Her Imperial Majesty summons all Statesmen and Generals to court!”

The attendant’s resounding voice beckoned the rising of the Empress’s subjects. The frigid morning called forth the awakening of scholars and warriors, as their servants helped them into their robes and armors. Sashaying past the long corridors of the magnificent capital city, they ascended the steps of the Tianshui, curious of the master’s summons. For centuries, the halls of Tianshui has been kept in shape by the deeds of the imperial Guo family and their Sky Lords Commission. Every stone and tile marked the cooperative effort of the realm. But among those that honored the traditions of old that defined the Guos’ very way of life, there are those that are compelled to act upon the winds of change. Was it truly the way to be born into nobility and neglecting the sacrifices made by the destitute? This question was refined into a personality that defied the Sky Lords Commission’s purpose, taking on the name of Guo Qian, styled Shenyue - son of Mu Qiao and Guo Yan.

Cladded in fine robes, Guo Qian’s unarmored apparatus were lenient on the eyes of his oppositions - dissuading them from their criticism. Well-versed in battle as they are with the indignations of the court, he understood their peeves well enough to wear his armor for a court summon - knowing full well that he was under the watchful eyes of his rivals. His dark hair, tainted by a few strands of silvery-white streaks, flowed past his shoulders. Under the morning breeze, the young General remained calm amidst the murmuring of judging statesmen and politicians. But even the bravest of warriors could not withstand the accumulation of dust particles. A loud sneeze finally escaped him upon his entry of the main chamber, causing many to recoil back, neither by surprise or unsuspected disturbance but fear. Shenyue’s golden eyes shifted back and forth, studying the gestures posed by those around him. It was then, he finally understood just how much he had taken hostage with his presence, despite the absence of his personal troops. Surely, his deeds would be known by oral passovers, but he did not expect it to be this severe in Tianshui. The very reason that he returned to Tianshui alone was to make sure his rivals remained unalarmed and civil. But it seems that his sneeze alone had already made a few enemies.

The main chamber was then split into two sides, with the center of the room kept open. The left, facing the Empress, was occupied by the marshals and knights. On the right, were civil attendants and internal statesmen. Brushing past the others and taking his spot among the marshals, Shenyue took notice of his siblings, of whom were made present with the entry of the Empress. It has been many years since he last saw Yaling and Guizhong. His hasty return to the capital brought little thoughts for the two, particularly souvenirs. What a horrible brother he was, the man sighed to himself in silence, as he got down on his knees alongside the others to pay their respect to Empress Guo Dai.

“All hail Her Imperial Majesty. Long may you reign!”

When the matter of the letter from Zarim was brought forth, it did not take long for words to weigh anchor.
“Your Imperial Majesty, it has not been long since General Guo returned from his long campaign against the Varangians.” Sky Lord Ma Xin urged. “Not to mention, he is the great general that brought peace to the western marches. Perhaps this is a ruse to snatch our precious defender from us?”

“I appreciate your consideration for my well-being, Lord Ma. Alas, if all are willing to participate, would it not be prudent to show our willingness to participate?” Shenyue replied confidently, having already expected some opposition to his departure.

“Who is to say that this is not some elaborate trap to capture you and the Empress’s daughters, wise Shenyue? We can simply say no and take a defensive stance instead. Zarim is not a threat to us.“

“You underestimate our partner. Must I remind you, Lord Xiahou, that our realm is reliant on Zarim’s ironworks and supplies? Or have you forgotten the Twenty-Thousand Bushels deal we struck with them from eons past? We have failed to protect their caravans, and you would expect them to not leave us to the barbarians at our gates!”

“What would you propose, General Guo? Enlighten us, if you are so inclined to leave us unprotected.”

“We are bound by our honor and our needs, Lord Cai. I believe there are two advantages that would benefit us greatly upon my departure. One, our rival states of Teotl and Varangia are placed in the same scenario, would it not be wise to abide by the same condition so that they would lower their guards? Second, our wars extend beyond the confinement of the borderlands, intelligence and wisdom may yet be gained within Zarim.” Turning towards the Empress, Shenyue continued with his proposal. “Your Majesty, the Silken Path to Zarim is well-known like the back of my hand. I only require five-hundred cavalry for the journey. Zarim possesses the resources, but not the experienced troops to safeguard their interests. I am certain King Farzin Bina will favor those that uphold honor above all else.”

Guizhong seemed to be staring past the lords and at the sky ahead, her eyes glossed over and lost in thought. For a brief moment, a wide smile emanated from the youngest daughter of the Empress Guo Dai. How long had it been since she’d last seen Shenyue?

But as soon as the conversation turned to the matter of Zarim, her smile dissolved and she resumed staring wistfully outside.

If she could, Yaling would be pacing. It was a habit that helped her to think while releasing the pent-up anxiety she held. They expected her to leave her home? For how long? She was most likely to be the heiress, what if there were tasks she needed to attend to urgently? Her gaze slipped towards her mother, but of course, the Empress’ face didn’t betray her thoughts. Holding a stony expression was one of the first lessons she had taught, as she wore her own now.

Yaling’s attention then traveled toward her younger sister, who was seemingly lost in thought, her attention focused on something far away. Leaning the slightest bit towards Guizhong, she spoke her voice only a whisper. “Guizhong, pay attention. You are every part of this as we are.” Besides, how would it look to the others in court if they saw the youngest of the Guo dynasty daydreaming? She held back a sigh.

Guizhong snapped out of her stupor, turning red as she tried to focus on the discussion. Still, it seemed she was trying to stifle a yawn as she listened to the lords ramble on.

Lastly, her gaze fell upon her brother, who only just returned home. It had been so long since he had left. Her heart ached in response to how he had seemingly changed. It was as if she could see the barrier that formed between the sisters and him. Part of her longed to reach out and ensure that Shenyue had returned in one piece. The protectiveness she held towards him as his older sister hadn’t seemed to diminish at all. Secretly, she felt a touch hurt. All these years had passed without a word from him, only updates on political matters. No letters, no gifts from his travels. It was as if he had forgotten about those he left at home.

Realizing she was lost in thought, just as she had scolded Guizhong for a moment earlier, she focused her attention back on the words being spoken.

While he proffered many words to meet the Sky Lords’ chimes and rhymes, Shenyue would be remiss to not take note of his siblings. Particularly so when the subject of the day pertained to that of their shared futures. Alas, only his nonchalant demeanor remained to maintain his integrity. Choosing to find a more suitable time for words with Guizhong and Yaling, the day progressed with debates over the inclination to meet Zarim’s request. Though it gnawed at the man for failing to greet his kin properly, he understood the necessity of silence when daggered words were deliberate and poised to tarnish the vindication effort he long sought. When the final decision was made, Shenyue, the Sky Lords, and ministers in their multitude were quick to pay their respect to the Empress. Carrying on with their duties, Shenyue was left to his own devices, where he planned for their upcoming journey west.

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The Silken Path - Roadside Respite & Reconcialiation

The Silken Path, long known as the vein of the Guo Dynasty, now greeted three columns of armored cavalry carrying the imperial banner. Armed with an excuse to escape Tianshui, Shenyue has never been more satisfied than when he first defeated an enemy force at the age of sixteen. But even so, his gamble came at the price of two lives that were intertwined with his - Guizhong and Yaling. Perhaps he was a selfish warlord as they had claimed, for he knew very little about them. The journey towards Zarim was long and tough, and there was no better way to mend the bridge that was deemed broken for the past few years. Absent in their lives, Shenyue often wondered if his presence now was good or bad. Even so, he remembered when they were younger, Yaling seemed to enjoy the little things, and that was more than enough for the general to get off from his horse and order a respite by the roads.

Straight columns of interlaced metal and flesh began to melt away, as they began to organize themselves in small groups. Adequate distances were kept in between, amidst the magnificent banners that bore the name of the Guos. Well-trained as they were, they were the Empress’s elite troops without ties to Shenyue. A necessary guarantor of their departure. Though he must admit his longing for mindless banters with his men on the frontier. While the same can be found in the presence of kins, such a task was not an easy one. Particularly so when they had graduated the first steps of adulthood, navigating into a cruel world without the very concept of who they really are. Despite the fact, Shenyue would not let the distant years divide his family, for they were more or less an integral part of his life.

By midday, Shenyue had prepared three sets of lunch that he personally hunted and cooked. While it was not exactly his best work, his efforts were made in hopes of understanding his siblings more. He had sent one of his officers to invite Yaling and Guizhong to join him by the small pond for their first meal together outside Tianshui.

Guizhong arrived shortly after. She was dressed in ceremonial attire and her hair was re-styled as well.

Yaling was thankful for the break. She wasn’t nearly as used to the long days of travel as her brother surely was. Frankly, it exhausted her. She took the chance to stretch her legs and chat with one of the many ladies of court who had accompanied her.

She was deep in conversation when an officer approached her, inviting her for lunch with her siblings. Truthfully, the invitation surprised her. However, it was not an unwelcome one. Yaling only hoped it wasn’t to talk strategy or politics. Her days were filled by those discussions and she only wanted a chance to catch up with her brother. She quickly excused herself and hurried away with her escort.

The officer tasked with escorting Guizhong and Yaling gave word, announcing their arrival per the General’s orders. With his left hand covering his right fist, he paid his respects.

“Your Highness. Her Highnesses, Princess Guizhong and Princess Yaling are here to join you for lunch.”

Shenyue nodded in silence, dismissing the officer with his approved gaze before getting up from his seat. Forming his hand over fist, Shenyue greeted his sisters. Donning his traveling robes, the tranquil General made sure to deliberately be outside of his armor for the occasion, in order to establish a familiar environment for his kins.

“I hardly recognize you, how beautiful you have grown. It has been many years since we had a proper occasion to ourselves. I apologize for not seeing you and Yaling immediately upon my return. As I am sure you are already all too aware of my ability to attract politics and headaches.” Lowering his head, the man showed his sincere humility. “Perhaps today, by the empty roadside, we can find sincere words among kindreds.” He added, with a soft smile. “Please.” His hands unfurled towards the makeshift tables upon the mat, of which was laid out upon the dried grass and sheltered by the shades of cloth strung out upon the evergreen trees above them.

“Far from the finest of meals that one can find in Tianshui. I hope you will forgive my crude culinary abilities. My rough hands aren't suited for homely tasks.” Shenyue remarked. Despite his humble words, the man was quite proud of his effort. As for the taste of steamed vegetables and roasted quails made by the hands of a warrior, the final conclusion can only be personally drawn by his sisters for themselves.

“I have longed for this day. Yet, when the opportunity presents itself here and now, my words are withheld by uncertainties. Where to start…” He confessed with a contemplative expression.

Guizhong smiled, her eyes stopping short at Shenyue as if to examine his robes. It seemed as if she was in a trance before Shenyue’s comments stirred her back to his attention. “You are too kind, Shenyue. I too sometimes find politics and headaches are often synonymous these days. Although, I still think my sister might prefer them to theater.”

She gave a longing sigh, taking a spot at the makeshift table. Once again, Guizhong’s eyes wandered around the structure. “You built this all just now? It’s quite impressive.” As Shenyue shared the spoils of his victorious hunt with the two sisters, Guizhong took her time to look around. She’d barely left the confines of her palace let alone her kingdom.

Yaling wished to hold a grudge against her brother for not visiting them earlier. With a simple apology, however, she found herself already beginning to forgive the man. She knew she was too forgiving when it came to her family, but she couldn’t seem to help herself. She wanted to be close with her siblings once more. Yaling just struggled to figure out how.

She took her place at the makeshift table, tucking her legs under her traveling gowns. “I see your skills in adaptability have only grown since you’ve left, Shenyue,” she said with a smile. She was genuinely impressed by how quickly the man had created the seating area and the food before them.

“In times of war, soldiers build barricades and forts. When they take respite from their toils, a small tent can make all the difference.” He replied to Guizhong’s remarks. “I cannot spare the thought of having you two troubled by the sun and rough grass.”

Turning towards Yaling, he was quick to adhere to her uneasy expressions. Though he suspected it was far more than the uneasy terrain or the simplistic preparations far from the luxuries of Tianshui.

“Though there is one thing that I have yet to learn - a way to truly voice my concerns. In earnest, it is a difficult thing to proffer my sincerity. After all, I have many letters written, but they never made it past my bedside.” He solemnly said, eyes averting. A simple sorry could be said, but he did not. Knowing that their distant past would not be so easily mended with just that, Shenyue conceded. His principles were refined by his time on the frontier, taking on the form of a person that was worth their actions rather than their words. His reservations were privy to his beliefs, for a man that was worthy of the perfect realm was not one to leverage on words alone. Instead, he would make up for the separated years with his siblings by his actions.

The work of ambassadors and soldiers was not a life familiar to the princess. Still, she took note of Shenyue’s contemplation. Her eyes carefully studied his posture.

“Do you think it’s a trap, Shenyue?”

The idea of their trip leading them into a trap sent a pang of worry through Yaling which she hid with a well-timed bite of food. It was something that had kept her up at night recently. She had to tell herself that the notion was silly. Shenyue would certainly not agree to this if he had any feeling that they may be walking blindly into a trap or that their family was in danger.

Before long, Guizhong’s words amended his mind. A direct topic, far from what he had in mind to catch up with their distant separations. Alas, he appreciated her words, sharing the same concern even if they were not cut from the same cloth. It was a curious statement, for it escaped his mind that Guizhong was as elusive as her studious eyes - focused, as they were enigmatic. While he could play the attentive fool, it would be rude to neglect her privileged wisdom that he perhaps could heed.

“Forgive my absentmindedness. Pray tell, sister, of whom do you speak of regarding this trap?” He reverted in the form of a question, curious to open Guizhong’s inclination of insinuation. Though in truth, that was the very question he asked himself upon the Empress’s revelation of their summons to Zarim. While he could not discern the truth of the summoner’s intentions from the political atmosphere that surrounded Tianshui, it was not a possibility he would have dismissed so easily. Surely, his departure was all too timely with his appointment as Governor of Wei province. A convenient ruse to ambush him in the middle of the road. But even the old Lords knew better than to act upon an uncertain gamble that would bring about the wrath of the Empress. Not for his sake, but the two princesses beside him. After all, the heir of the throne has yet to be named, and ridding the princesses would only serve to sever any chance of consolidating one’s power in Tianshui. In the event that they do enact such a coarse action, his loyal troops in Wei, battle-hardened and zealous, can easily be summoned to protect the interests of the Guo. It was only a matter of time for Shenyue. But as of now, he was willing to compromise diplomatically with his siblings.

Zarim, on the other hand, was a land untouched by the Guos. A calculated risk to place his own safety in the realm of the unknown, but one far more beneficial than to be held hostage in Tianshui by the Sky Lords. He was sure that even the barbarians in the North and South were not so inept as to act carelessly within Zarim, a realm that held the four kingdoms hostage as much as they are in a mutually-binding respect. Whatever was ahead of them, Shenyue was determined to protect his siblings, as they are just as useful to him as they were of his own blood. Though the sentiments withheld have yet to manifest.

Guizhong took a sip from her cup. “I just heard one of the lords mention it…”

Sneaking a glance at Yaling, Guizhong placed the cup down. “Although I have to say the ramblings can be so tiresome. I assume you provided the answer while I was distracted by a sparrow outside.”

The young princess grinned. “Have you ever been to Zarim? What cuisine do they make? I heard their drinks are stronger than ours, but I find that difficult to believe.”

“So you were listening, as opposed to the sparrow?” Shenyue’s subtle jest floated past his sister, as he stroked his chin slightly as if collecting traces of his thoughts. “Lord Xiahou’s concerns are not unfounded. Though I fear that he had spent too much time confined to Tianshui’s and have fallen ill to partisan redundancy - blissfully ignorant of the world beyond our kingdom.”

“Zarim is a realm unlike ours. In my rare past ventures, I have come to take heed of its perilous sea of sands and wretched passages. To this day, I fail to understand their traditions, despite our long-standing trade. How can a realm be so close, yet so foreign?” A brief pause followed, as his distant eyes reeled back to reality, meeting Guizhong’s own. “As for their culinary practice and any assumptions one may make, perhaps that is an answer only true experience can answer. Fascinating, in fact. I have come to a conclusion that it is an adventure that all three of us can partake in.” Shenyue concluded on the topic, hinting at his familiarity with where to begin their first joint activity as a family.

Guizhong sighed wistfully. “Then let this be the first of many meals to be shared together. Shenyue, is it true that all strategists enjoy games as a pastime? And must you be very good at those games to even be considered a tactician?”

“Indeed. As far as tactics are concerned, it is akin to negotiations, with the only difference between them and ambassadors are their uniforms. One could say that we are all strategists. They are negotiators on the battlefield after all.” He remarked, finally taking a sip from his vessel, as the three siblings enjoyed their meal and passed the hour with gradual topics of interest.

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Zarim - Mantle of Destiny

Brushing past the dusty stone-paved road that led the convoy of Eastern warriors out of the serpentine valley of jagged rocks and scattered foliage, banners and white walls of Zarim’s magnificent citadel greeted the siblings. After several days of keeping to the familiar path that Shenyue had taken in the past, they were finally admitted by King Farzin’s royal guards, of whom were already expecting them. Ordered to encamp outside of the walled city, most of the cavalry regiment remained, sparing the few that were handpicked by Shenyue to accompany the Guo siblings towards the main palace where they were expected. Trodding along the inner roads, the column of soldiers displayed the might of the Eastern Mandate, as ornate lamellar plates and vibrant imperial banners announced the arrival of the young guests in Zarim. Upon the grand steps that led to the inner sanctum, Shenyue dismounted and aided his siblings in getting out of their carriages. As the soldiers remained in proper formation to coordinate with Zarim’s troops, the three siblings were then escorted by King Farzin’s attendant.

The rattling of Shenyue’s armor finally ceased when they were in the presence of the ruler of the citadel. Paying his respects, Shenyue folded his right fist and opened his left palm, forming a gesture of reverence to greet their host.

“Her Exalted Majesty sends her regards, Fair King Farzin. In honor of our long-sustained accord and friendship, please accept our kingdom’s offerings.” Shenyue announced, as the soldiers began to ferry the chests filled with gifts from Guo into the main chamber. “The finest of Luyan’s textiles, our signature Golden Lotus tea bricks, and confections from Yanzi.”

“I am Guo Qian. These are my siblings, Princess Guo Yaling and Princess Guo Guizhong. We are here to answer your summons, King Farzin.”

Yaling entered beside her siblings, the clattering of Shenyue’s armor announcing their arrival long before her brother ever spoke. Taking her introduction as a cue, she bowed deeply, steading her gaze on the pristine floor beneath their feet. She could only hope that her sister was following suit beside her. After a brief moment, she straightened herself

Guizhong once again seemed fascinated by her new surroundings. She was studying the roof of the structure, as if making calculations in her head. She only noticed a few seconds later that her sister was already bowing and tried to follow suit.

Lowering his head slightly, Shenyue took notice of the familiar faces around, particularly those that he had crossed blades with not so long ago. It was as he suspected, though for better or worse, he was not going to let the personal disputes of men get in the way of his kingdom’s interests. It was too early in the day to spill bad blood on civil grounds.




Written with: GhastlySquash Mooniee

It has been some time since he was given audience with King Farzin. As much as it is necessary to show a display of the Guo's imperial might, Shenyue only saw a man of wisdom instead of a contender for the bountiful resources of the land. For the time being, Shenyue chose to fold his fist and palm as a gesture of paying his respect and gratitude to Farzin, withholding his words for another time. Particularly so when there were wandering eyes abound, seeking to unravel Farzin's outstanding hospitality for the Guo general. Understandably so, given the sudden congregation of hostile parties under the present banner of civility.

Despite his efforts to finally escape the politics at home, Guo Qian found himself trading one hostile environment for another. The only thing that managed to keep the swords and axes from being drawn was King Farzin's hospitality. Under the banner of Zarim, none was keen to spill the blood of their life-long enemies, despite no greater opportunity. Shifting his attention towards the bearded warrior, Guo Qian immediately recognized the Longfang, of whom was all too close to cutting the Guo's expeditionary army in half last year. Far from a refined strategist, the Varangian's moniker nevertheless deserved its entitlement, especially when he had almost captured Shenyue in battle. Alas, the heavens have yet to forsake the General, allowing him the dignity to sit at the same table as his enemies with a smug sentiment about their last encounter.

Across from him was the peculiar Westerner, whose attire gave away their origins. Shenyue quickly caught on to the curious look in their eyes when Farzin spoke earlier. Though, it was the norm to be surprised here, where feuds and hostilities were suddenly shelved for exchanges of words over grand cuisines and refreshments. Shenyue could only remain quiet for so long without standing out as a peculiarly inept representative of the Guos, given his tendency to cast his long gaze upon both the awared and the unsuspecting subjects of his personal scrutiny. Lemoin, a kingdom that possessed the appropriate modicum of unhealthy relations with Guo, as did the others, was a realm that Shenyue had kept an eye on, but did not provoke. With the Guo already fixed on incessant skirmishes between the Teotl to the South and the Varangians to the North, a third front would have turned the young general's head immaculately white from the implicated nightmares of logistical planning.

"Of all the familiar faces that tried to seize my head on the field, yours is not among them. I am Guo Qian, son of the East and servant to Her Imperial Majesty, Empress Guo Dai. Will you tell me your name?" Shenyue inquired the studious man across from him, who he assumed to possess the one thing that he sought for years - the removal of oneself from the intrigues of nations and contenders. At least, that was his impression of the man, given their choice of a distant seat as much as Shenyue was inclined to do.

Surprisingly, a common ground in a chamber full of young warriors and scholars - which beckoned Shenyue's curiosity regarding their current circumstances. While he cannot confirm the purpose of this feast, his suspicions gradually grew. By right, their numbers were even, particularly so with the Varangians and the Teotls present, of which were already made known to Shenyue as the incumbent successors for their respective thrones. There was only a few logical possibilities for such a gathering. The rest were quickly dismissed, given Shenyue's familiarity with Farzin's hospitality and honorable inclinations among the realms throughout the years. A possibility of a prolonged ceasefire, though not in the way Shenyue would expect to play out. That is, if his assumptions thus far were true. Though in the sinister scenario of ill-intended conspiracy, the five-hundred elite Guo troops stationed outside of the citadel would be enough to get Yaling and Guizhong to safety. While it is no different in Guo, Shenyue understood his oppositions, their ambitions and fears well enough for him to be comfortable among creatures of predictable habits within an environment that he could control. The same, however, cannot be said here in Zarim, where many various unknown elements only serve to propagate his paranoia and wariness of those around him.