Author Topic: Tales from the Land of Two Dragons  (Read 2622 times)

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Offline Lijiang

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Tales from the Land of Two Dragons
« on: December 18, 2020, 11:53:05 AM »
Tielin was still adjusting to his new life as the Dragon Emperor. The biggest change to his life was the fact that he never seemed to be alone. HE considered himself a family man and was always keen to spend time with his wife and three children but in the three days since being named Emperor he was forced into sharing his life with an endless round of armour clad soldiers looking as though they were refugees from the 10th Century. Even now he could see the shadow underneath his door move slightly indicating that even as he took a dump someone was outside waiting. It seemed for the rest of his life loneliness was something he would never experience. His business taken care of he exited the bathroom and heard the now familiar snap of a soldier moving to attention and preparing to follow just a few steps behind. He wondered what use the clanging metal clad soldier would be if a madman with a gun appeared but as he exited the Imperial Palace to begin the long descent through the grounds to the front gate he realised that too would not be a problem as he spotted the familiar site of the machine gun toting Imperial Guardsman wandering the courtyard. He sighed as six men similar to the one who had guarded him on his other throne moments ago fell in either side of him with the toilet guard going ahead as they made their way across the courtyard and onto the seemingly never ending steps that descended down the side of a valley where the Palace was sat. At the foot of the slope was a wide slow moving river which on clear autumnal days like today casted a magnificent reflection of the Palace in its clear waters. Across the valley itself was an almost identical copy of the Imperial Palace but this dedicated to the religious management of the nation. It may only be 6am but already groups of pilgrims stood ready to enter and make their daily offerings. Tielin waved a greeting from among his escort to those who noticed him and Tielin was pleased in a way the river separated them as it meant  he wouldn't be asked to give his own blessing to them. A black car was waiting and Tielin kind of half expected the soldiers to enter the car with him meaning he wondered where their black shafted spears would go but instead found three men in suits already sat. "Good Morning Your Majesty" the first said. "We'll be at the capital in fifteen minutes."

"Thank you" Tielin watched as the Palace slunk behind them and they whizzed along the valley road trees dominating each side until the valley began to widen and flatten at which point the countryside opened out in vast swathes of lush fields and paddies. Occasionally the greens were dotted with bundles of bright colours as the country folk toiled over their crops glad to be able to put on clothing that wasn't black, white or brown anymore. Tradition had told people bright colours were disrespectful to the dead Dynasty that had proceeded Tielin's rise to the throne but now colour sprang forth like flowers returning in the spring. It made Tielin happy to see and he felt bad for not engaging with the men in the car on the journey but he somehow felt they would not have enjoyed conversation with him. The car entered the capital and the homes of the locals were squat stone buildings, mostly white with terracotta roof tiles a contrast to their walls. The odd house was still made of wood with artistic dragons heads guarding the doorway to keep evil spirits out and then they hit the grey squat wall of the Golden Enclave. It was a rather misleading name, there was nothing there that was golden at first glance. The walls that guarded the quarter of the city that was dedicated to the Empress, effectively a town within the city into which control was regulated, it had some of its own laws, its own customs and even its own currency and the Empress was the all powerful decision maker. The car stopped at the old gateway where a red door blocked the road. No sooner had the car stopped than the heavy wood was swung open to welcome the Emperor, the sound of a hundred pairs of feet running in unison on cobblestones filled the air as yellow tunic wearing soldiers with spears appeared and formed a guard of honour to channel the Emperor into the safety of the walls. The endless ceremony was beginning already to become tedious but the Emperor nodded his thanks as he walked down the line. As he passed each pair of soldiers they stepped forward to close the channel behind him and turned to face the gatehouse now rather than flanking the Emperor they followed him until he was safe inside the walls, even his bodyguard left outside. The doors were swung shut and his wife, Empress Jing was waiting. She was dressed in traditional attire as would be expected, a gold coloured robe and a purple sash tied around her waist. It was this gold coloured uniform worn by those in the household of the Empress that gave the area its name.

"Good Morning" The Emperess embraced her husband and the pair kissed as they made their way through the streets. In total around 1,000 people lived in the Enclave full time doing a variety of jobs for the Imperials ranging from cooks to teacher to street cleaners. It was a settlement that would be able to house 4,000 people at its height and the people were hopeful that as the Emperor took more wives, more concubines and produced more children each would bring their own household. Legend once told of an Emperor who took 200 wives and 1000 concubines but Tielin like most realised this was just a fairy tale yet to the less well educated in the countryside this was something the Emperor should strive towards. The Enclave was also home to some nobles who had duties attached to care of the Empress and it was one of these that had meant the Emperor was here so early in the morning. "Its a strange morning."

"Yes it his" Empress Jing smiled back as they made their way to the Empresses audience chamber a large room with a red tiles floor split by a yellow carpet that ran between the entrance door and the pair of thrones where the Emperor and Empress would sit. The pair walked the yellow carpet while everyone else fanned out to the red tiles not yet having been permitted to stand of the ground reserved for the Imperial family.

"Was this really necessary?" Tielin asked his wife as the pair sat on their ornate thrones.

"Very" Jing clearly meant business this morning.

"Very well" Tielin sighed and nodded to a man wearing a traditional attire of a court chamberlain who bowed spun on his heels and hurried off outside moments later he reappeared with a group of people, two men wearing chains around their necks indicating a noble rank, each flanked by a stern faced woman Tielin assumed was their wife and before them a nervous looking girl of about 12 years of age. Tielin waved them forward and walking on the red tiles they approached the foot of the throne steps. "Please stand before us." Tielin motioned that they should step onto the Yellow Carpet and the group bowed once again before shuffling to fill the space directly before them. "Please why is it needed for me to intervene."

"Your Majesty" one of the noble men bowed his head as he began to speak. "My daughter here is 12 years of age is due to marry Lord Hiraw's son next week. Plans have been put in place for months since we arranged a marriage contract. When your wife." He paused for a moment and looked at the Empress nervously, "Her dear Imperial Majesty the Empress" he bowed towards her, "arrived her in the Enclave she ordered the marriage called off. I believe that she has no power under our laws to do so."

JIng didn't wait for her husband to respond. "You live in my Enclave, you live under my laws. I am responsible for the health and well being of everyone here. The day I arrived a 13 year old girl, forced into a marriage with a man in his forties, gave birth to her child here. The birth was obviously a difficult one, imagine a petite child forcing a child out of her. It nearly killed her and even now she is still not well and doctors inform me she is unlikely to ever have children again. Her health ruined, her future in tatters because of a failure to care for our young." The Empress spoke passionately. "I will not allow the same fate to befall others in this enclave."

"But with respect Your Imperial Majesty there is nothing to stop us removing my daughter from here and having her marry beyond your control." One of the nobles said smugly.

"I am afraid dear" Tielin began with a sigh, he had never expected such matters to be a problem he would deal with, "that Lord Tehgin" is correct. A girl may marry as soon as she has started her menstruation." It was a rule Teilin did not necessarily agree with but he understood that the rule allowed peasant families to move on daughters who were often just an extra mouth to feed around the farm.

"Very well" The Empress said in a huff. "I do have it in my power however to take into my service any individual who enters the Enclave. From this day forth any girl entering the enclave who is unmarried shall become one of my household, she therefore may not marry without my consent nor shall any man take her into their bed without my consent. Anyone failing to comply with this shall be punished by death." She announced the new law loudly. "I shall not have another girl being ripped apart by such barbaric abuses, little girls should be little girls not mothers. This begins with your daughter. Come here child." The Empress waved the girl forward and she dutifully obeyed. She had heard of how her friend who had given birth just a few days earlier lay still gravely ill and feared she would suffer a similar fate, one that befell hundreds if not thousands of girls a year. "What is your name?"

"Ziya" the girl said now stood on the lowest step her head bowed. "Your Majesty....Imperial Majesty" she stumbled over her words nervously.

"Ziya, you shall now be responsible for my personal library. You are to report to me every morning at 8am unless I say otherwise." The girl nodded half relieved that she would escape the inevitable pain of early childbirth but on the other hand she would be going against her father's wishes. "Captain of the Guard." A man stepped forward wearing dark armour with a large yellow feather coming from his metal helmet. "Please ensure that no female child under the age of 16 leaves the Enclave without my permission."

"Yes Your Majesty" The Guardsman bowed and having been given his instructions stood back to the side.


"She can't do this" The girls father protested towards the Emperor.

Tielin felt a marker needed to be put down and stood. "SHE!" he exclaimed, "Who is SHE. This is my wife, the Empress of the Majestic Empire, the mother of the nation and you will pay her due respect or you will pay with your life." he descended the stairs and took the spear from one of the guardsman who stepped back to be replaced almost immediately with a now armed spearman as though this was a common event, that in itself worried Tielin. "The Empress rules the Enclave, you live in her land. I do not wish to be dragged out of my Palace away from matters of state to deal with a nobleman who is not intelligent enough to realise how fortunate he is to enjoy the Empresses wisdom." With a dexterity born of years of martial arts training the Emperor easily twirled the spear and left its blade a few inches from the mans face. "Now, who is SHE?" Tielin asked.

The noble sunk to his knees "She is The Dragon Empress of the Majestic Empire of Lijiang, she is the mother of the nation and she is the person who I thank for favouring my daughter with such a honourable duty." The man capitulated before them and the Emperor was satisfied his point had been made, he looked at the soldier who he had taken the weapon from and with a nod indicated he could take the spear back and gently tossed it towards him. He was relieved the soldier caught it easily and without a second thought snapped to attention again at his post. Tielin helped the man to his feet.

"There has been enough problems with nobles arguing as of late." The Emperor was leading the man towards the door now his arm around his shoulder a careful ploy to show the man still had the Emperors friendship but a clear indication that he was done here. "Tomorrow Lord Tehgin you will bring yourself and your daughters future husband to the Palace. The three of us shall practice archery together and I shall review whether this individual is suitable to marry a lady in my families service." Tehgin bowed before the Emperor his honour saved as even though he would lose face for not fulfilling the wedding contract he had now the ability to be seen by his future son-in-laws family as enjoying access to the Emperor, thus making his family even more desirable as a marriage prospect. Tielin was glad the matter was done and having returned to his wife was only too glad to be able to spend the rest of the morning with his own family as they planned their own future in a strange new world to them.

Offline Lijiang

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Re: Tales from the Land of Two Dragons
« Reply #1 on: December 28, 2020, 09:59:49 PM »
"The Grand Council of the Majestic Empire" it was in the view of the new Dragon Emperor a rather ridiculous name and at the moment it seemed a rather pointless body but the Majestic Empire was a land built upon a foundation of tradition and Tielin realised this and so as he sat at the flat edge of an otherwise round table he looked around those gathered. The Empire was split into 15 holdings each of which was overseen by a High Lord each had a seat allocated as did the Dragon Priestess who was the only person permitted to sit on the flat edge alongside the Emperor. Today only 12 of the High Lords seats were occupied and it was the missing three seats that would be the first order of business. "Your Imperial Majesty" one of the High Lords, a tall stick thin man wearing traditional silken robes in blue, began the difficult conversation. "Three High Lords saw fit to break the instructions of the Dragon Priestess, they mobilised their militia forces and marched on the capital forcing the Dragon Priestess to take the Imperial Guard into battle. They must be dealt with and so that must My Lord be the first order of business."

Tielin knew if he accepted the throne days of making difficult decisions would be the nature of the job however he hoped that this would be things such as economics and social policies not matters of swift feudal justice. In the Empire the land all belonged to the Emperor and its distribution cascaded down first to High Lords, then other nobles, Knights and then the peasants with each expected to give unwavering loyalty and service to those above them and receiving protection and guidance from those above. For a High Lord to go against this system was scandalous and hadn't happened in over 400 years but now the three empty seats showed the extent of the problem Tielin had to now solve. " I am minded to be merciful" The new emperor tried to pick his words carefully as they would be his first among the most significant of several councils that offered him advice. While his word was law it was also the case that he would need the High Lords support in seeing his commands put into practice. He hoped that his decisions today would be a reflection of how he wanted to proceed he wanted the Empire to become more modern but recognised they still needed their traditions and so he now would see what those around him suggested.

High Lord Dehai stood. He was in charge of one of the coastal provinces and had sent two of his sons to fight in the Imperial Guard when the Priestess had sent them to quell the uprising by the three disloyal members of this Council. He was a man in his early fifties and was known to enjoy sailing and fishing his robe even bearing several aquatic creatures among its lavish patterns. "We must wipe their name from history." He suggested loudly, "They killed their own countrymen in defiance of the Priestesses commands. They turned their back on the Two Dragons and they show disrespect to every subject who loyally observed the mourning period. I say every one of them should be executed, their wives, their children, leave people in no doubt that they will suffer if they break the peace of this Empire." A handful of men around the table nodded their approval clearly having a taste for blood.

Across from Dehai a man stood and waited for him to finish speaking indicating that he wished to speak. High Lord Quanbo was in charge of the South of the Empire and was among the youngest of the High Lords his father having recently passed away from cancer. "High Lord Dehai is correct that these men turned their back on the Two Dragons and plunged the nation into chaos. They rightfully deserve punishment. I know though that some of their children did not support the actions of their father, one of the sons of the rouge Lords even fought in the Imperial Guard. It is not fair to punish that young man for doing the right thing. You would send a message Your Majesty that loyalty is not enough to be safe. To stand against your father to honour the Dragon Priestesses orders is a sign of him being honourable. I think Dehai is right we must have executions. I believe the rouge High Lords must be executed, I believe their wives must be imprisoned and if we have evidence of their children being complicit they should be made to stand formal trial and face the consequences. I would suggest though that the loyal son is shown to be publically rewarded." A few light taps on the table showed Quanbo also enjoyed the support of some gathered here.

"Thank you" Tielin sat considerate of the views he had heard. He wanted the people to see him as a strong leader and a man willing to do what was needed to make the Empire strong but at the same time he had never killed or been involved in the deaths of anyone. He had worn the uniform of his father's militia when younger and when he  had become High Lord he made the decision to place his forces under the command of the Dragon Priestess thus had never lead them in combat himself. He now though had decisions to make. He felt confined by the table and seats and so stood and began wandering the room a little as he spoke. "I am aware we need to send a message that disloyalty will not be tolerated but also the blood of innocents should be spared as much as possible." He paused and looked out the window across the valley where a few specks of snow floated down towards the river. " Lord Dehai is right that names must be written out of history but Lord Quanbo is also accurate when he says we must not punish people who did no wrong. I have an idea in mind but I wish the Dragon Priestess to say whether she believes the Two Dragons would approve." He watched as the young Priestess shifted in her seat slightly as eyes focused on her for a moment. At 28 years of age she had been the nations spiritual guide since her mother had died 10 years ago and her swift actions had eventually ended the instability. "I have a mind to follow through and execute the three High Lords. It shall be done by my own hand to show that they broke Imperial Order and thus shall face justice" A few of the High Lords seemed surprised that the new Emperor was willing to physically get his hands dirty but also respected his sentiment. "Their wives shall be given in marriage to peasants." A few chuckles from the table were meet with a stern look by the Emperor, "They shall therefore be given a chance of redemption by working the fields. Their male children will be forced to take new names as selected by the Dragon Priestess and will be have any of their own children taken into the Golden Enclave as members of the Empresses household. Finally the female children shall enter the Priesthood, the exception shall be the young man Lord Quanbo brought to our attention. He shall be permitted to inherit his father's land and may if he wishes retain his name. I would also like him to be given a significant rank in the Imperial Guard if the Dragon Priestess agrees." He had spoken largely while examining the river running at the foot of the valley and now turned to see the High Lords all looking at each other as to gauge their views. "Mengyao please tell me if this is wise.....and permissable."

The Dragon Priestess closed her eyes for a moment as though communing directly with the spirits and the two Dragons before placing her hands on the table and slowly standing. "Your Imperial Majesty is walking a tightrope with much grace" she began. Her duty was simple and twofold, first she must support the position of the Emperor and second she must ensure the spirits were pleased and now give the Emperor her advice in a manner that would do both. "To rid the High Lords from the Empire is a wise beginning. To wipe the names of those families is also a sensible one. Making the wives peasants is causing humiliation which in itself is a fitting punishment not too disimilar to the nobility to death but it is merciful. The fate of the loyal young man I think should be used to give a positive example of what loyalty may bring but to allow one of the three families to retain their name is showing favour already and you must avoid that. I will suggest something that will allow him to retain his honour despite losing his family name. I shall grant his the family name Qīnglóng, it was once a name given to those who had given great service to the Imperial Guard but has not been used for some time. Using the name will therefore give him great honour but wipe the fathers name." The Emperor nodded, it was a better idea than his own regarding the young man and therefore he was willing to accept the Priestesses advice. "I would also ask if you have given thought to the three daughters held as insurance against future rebellions."

The Emperor had not thought of these three young girls, all the youngest daughters of the disloyal High Lords they ranged in age from 16 to 20 and had been residing in the Sanctuary of the Dragons across the valley. "Perhaps we should release them to their families?" He suggested to the Priestess the meeting now seemingly reduced down to the two of them.

"With their families all but gone I think that would pointless. I think here is your chance to show mercy." The Priestess was not sure how this would go with the new Emperor. Tielin was a man she had selected for Emperor. He'd been her choice because of his unwavering loyalty to the faith, a life of showing respect to traditions and a fine upstanding lineage but that now may be a downside for the ruthlessness he must show. He was also a family man and that would also bare an influence on what she would suggest. "Your Imperial Majesty is expected to have a great many children. The Imperial Family is expected to have candidates for almost every position within the Empire and also the Priesthood. You will therefore be expected to take wives, many wives. Emperor Junjie V had seven wives and twenty or so concubines. He produced close to 50 children."

"Times change" the Emperor interjected showing his first break with tradition may be on the horizon.

"Oh I agree" the Priestess nodded in agreement, "But you are a reflection of the power, prestige and majesty of the Empire. You will be expected to have a huge family and three children does not qualify. To do otherwise shows you are not a true Emperor." Tielin knew she was right but in all his life he'd only ever been with his wife. "I suggest you take the sister of the soon to be Qīnglóng as a wife. It shows loyalty and in the days of the formation of the Empire the Emperor would often take a daughter of a defeated enemy as his wife to cement loyalty of their followers as he added their lands to the Empire. I would then take one of the other two daughters as a concubine, it is both an insult and a show of mercy. The family are seen as no longer noble but they she is permitted to redeem herself in the service of the Empire. The final daughter is to be sent into exile and should she ever return shall be executed."

Tielin did not like the idea but knew it was one he would have to come to terms with. "How do we determine which of the two girls becomes the concubine?" Tielin addressed his question to the Priestess but before she could answer High Lord Dehai yelled out of turn.

"Simple Your Majesty" Dehai was smiling mischieviously, "one of the two is pig ugly, send her into exile and keep the pretty one." The Lords around the table laughed except for one man, High Lord Kexing who shook his head with disapproval.

"Lord Kexing" Tielin wanted to know what was on the old man's mind. "You seem to have other thoughts?"

"No Your Majesty" Kexing attempted to stand but being in his 80's he did so slowly and Tielin motioned that he was not required to stand to address the council. "Thank you. My knees are not what they once were." He sank back to the chair. "I agree with the course but so flippant a comment on the girls future is disrespectful. The family had been one that had great honour and though their fall is inevitable now the passing of a great house is not a laughing matter. I apologise but a concubine of the Emperor is still a woman deserving of respect for she gives her very body to further the Empire much like a soldier would. Would we laugh at the risks taken by Lord Dehai's sons?" The mood changed and Lord Dehai bowed his head indicating that he accepted the older man's comments. "But yes take the prettier one." Kexing concluded.

The room fell silent as Tielin resumed his seat and sat leaning on the edge of the table his fingers bridged under his chin as he mused the plan ahead of him. "It shall be as the Priestess agreed" he concluded after what felt like an age of silence. "I shall make the announcement in an hour. Thank you for your Council today." The Emperor indicated that the meeting was over and the Lords began to leave each bowing as they passed following the Priestess out. His old knees creeking as he stood Kexing was the last man to head towards the door. "Lord Kexing please stay a moment." The old man stopped and returned to the table. "Please sit" the Emperor offered him the Dragon Priestesses chair as it was the closest.

"With respect Your Majesty I am not a man to turn down my Emperor but no man should sit in that chair." he held his dark brown wooden stick towards the chair and instead sat in one of the High Lords chairs.

Tielin smiled as this was exactly why he wished to speak with him. "Kexing you are the most elderly of the High Lords. You show amazing reverence for the position of Emperor despite no one living having known life under one. You know the traditions of court far better than any of us. I therefore have an offer to make you." He pulled the heavy wooden chair of the Emperor closer to the man.

Lexing looked at the floor and shook his head slightly. "You My Lord are an Emperor, you own me and therefore you do not make me an offer you give me instructions and I proudly follow them." The Emperor felt like he was back at school.

"I would have this job only done by a willing man." Tielin responded, "I require a High Councillor, a man to manage this council when I am not here. I think you would be the best choice, you know the needs of the Empire well and I think we share a common mind for what needs to be done. I think you would be a steady hand."

Lexing began laughing but found himself spluttering shortly after beginning. "My Lord." he began through coughs, "My hands are far from steady" he held his hand up palm facing the ground and showed it shaking profusely, "I am though bound to follow your instructions. If you wish me to serve I shall do so with all my strength for as long as you see me as a fit individual."

"Well then High Lord Lexing I name you as High Councillor and your first task will be to arrange a wedding." The pair shook hands.

"I shall begin preparations immediately." Lexing pushed himself up bowed and left the Emperor alone. Tielin now had two major obstacles to face as he lead the Empire towards re-joining the world, could he really take another man's life and take another woman to his bed?

Offline Lijiang

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Re: Tales from the Land of Two Dragons
« Reply #2 on: January 03, 2021, 05:14:16 PM »
The term "Golden Enclave" stirred up various images in the mind of most Lijiangians. To those in the know it was an area devoted to honouring the ancestors, preparing youngsters for their futures guiding the nation and ensuring the beloved Dragon Emperor had most of the day to day concerns taken care of. It was a place that those of the nobility saw as a place of service and where their fortunes could be made. To those outside the capital it was a place where the very walls were made of gold and and the streets lined with jewels. It was a place where those selected by the Two Dragons ensured the nation retained the love of the Two Dragons and did what was needed to make the crops grow, the rivers flow and that everyone had enough food. It was along with the Imperial Palace one of two places that ensured the nation was as Majestic as the name suggested. The truth though was that its walls were not golden, they were huge buttresses of dark grey stone with three gatehouses. The wall was so wide it was possible that a military force of 20 men in line could march along them side by side. Rumour had it that the walls could even have tanks drive along them they were so formidible however out of respect for the Enclave it had never actually been tried. The streets to where Grey cobbles with two storey buildings either side made of white walls with red trims and roof tiles. A great deal where still made out of wood and a walk through the grid pattern streets was like going back to the 1600's. Most residents wore traditional style fashions of brightly coloured silks and huge gardens sprang up every few houses. The Enclave's nerve centre though was a sprawling complex of buildings within a smaller wall, this one yellow in colour which was were the Enclave actually got its name from. Once through the only gate way, which was always guarded by men in black traditional armour, there was a yellow coloured set of paving that wound its way through the Enclave and it was noticeable that everyone avoided walking on the path as it was reserved for the royals and those given permission to walk upon it. Soon that would include Huian.

The 19 year old had spent nearly two years fearing her father's actions were going to see her executed and she had hardly slept since the Dragon Emperor had been named. In her room at the Sanctory of the Two Dragons she had feared every person arriving since Tielin being proclaimed Emperor was bringing orders for her death. It had reached a point where she contemplated throwing herself out the Palace window to end it all before the Emperor sent for her beheading. Thankfully she hadn't and although her father would be paying the ultimate price she would live. Then news had come that her nobility had been stripped and her heart had sank she knew no life other than that of a noblemans daughter but then she had been told she would be moved to the Golden Enclave and would become a Concubine to the Dragon Emperor. It was a mixed fortune, on one hand she would be forced to give herself to the Dragon Emperor on his command but she would also know a life of luxury and safety. She had read a lot of history and knew in the past some of those who had held the title ""Imperial Lady of the Emperors Chamber" had wielded just as much power and influence as any Empress or Queen. She had already been treated like someone important as she had made that 10km journey as she had been permitted to ride in a carriage usually reserved for high ranking nobles. To see the city once more made her appreciate the fact that this was happening as she believed she would never see the place again. In her youth she had attended several events in the Enclave but she had been told tales of how once the period of mourning was passed the place would become even more alive. Already as she passed into the Enclave she could see that was the case. The place was full of people going about their business in bright reds, yellows, blues the old blacks and greys of her former visit gone. Music filled the air as somewhere someone was teaching a group of youngsters how to play various instruments. The people on the streets parted to allow the carriage through and soon they were at the centre where next door to the residence of the Empress was a low single story wooden building beautifully decorated.

"Welcome to the Concubine's Lodge" a woman with her hair in a bun held by a silver ribbon greeted her. "You must forgive us, we have had just two days to clean the place up and ready it for your arrival. My name is Shai and I am to be the Matron of the Lodge, my duty is to ensure you are cared for and when the time comes look after any children you and the Emperor produce. I am to be a combination of your mother, your tutor, your secretary and nanny." Shai said proudly. She lead Huian through a series of rooms each finished in deeply polished dark wood and decorated with beautiful works of art. The Lodge was a beautiful building and in its heart was a a large hall set up as a dining room. "From time to time once you have children you will be expected to host events on behalf of the Dragon Emperor with minor nobles. Also the Dragon Emperors of old would often dine with all their Concubines, one story tells that one had 100 or so girls." The room was indeed big enough to accommodate that but surely that was something of a throwback to antiquity. Somewhere in the maze of rooms a clock chimed 2pm. "We must be quick now" Shai grabbed her hand and lead her into several more rooms before pushing open a large heavy wooden door. It was a bath house full of sunken wooden tubs. Three young girls in their early teens were busily filling one such tub from a bubbling font of water. "We have our own natural warm spring, the waters are said to be very good for your health and long life." Shai pushed Huian towards the tub and without really explaining began to undress her. "The Emperor shall be here at 4pm and we have much to go over." Huian tried to protest but soon found herself being helped over the low edge of the tub which she discovered was beautifully warm. There was a ledge to sit on which when she lowered herself onto it she discovered meant only her shoulders and head were above the water. "This is awkward but must be asked." Shai was sat on the edge of the tub giving instructions to the attendants to fetch various lotions and potions and this was asked while they were away. "Have you been with a man before?"

"No" Huian seemed offended Shai would even suggest such a thing.

"I meant no offence. You see in a time before living in the Enclave I ran a brothel in the city. I was hired a year ago for this position should it ever be needed to ensure people like you are well looked after and understand their unique position. You exist now to primarily give the Emperor more children but also to keep him fulfilled in anyway he needs. So I need you to be ready" The next half an hour or so sent Huian's mind into a whirl as Shai gave her rather intimate advice on what her new role would be and as such she was now nervous over whether she would ever be truly happy in life. Having been bathed to Shai's satisfaction she was helped dress and for the first time in her life had make up applied. "I am sure the Dragon Emperor will be very pleased with you." She seemed almost proud of her new charges appearance as she stepped back and admired their work.

Suddenly a gong sounded followed by a fanfare which announced the arrival of Dragon Emperor Tielin. Huian suddenly felt like she was going to throw up as nerves turned her stomach into a swirling mess. "It's ok" Shai whispered to her as Tielin approached. The Dragon Emperor was accompanied by several guardsman and they followed him inside. "Welcome Your Imperial Majesty" Shai bowed deeply as did Huian. "May I introduce Huian Imperial Lady of the Emperors Chamber" hearing her new title used for the first time she knelt before the Emperor as Shai had instructed.

"Please get up" Tielin held a hand out and Huian accepted it as he raised her to her feet. "It is a pleasure to meet you." The Emperor stammered slightly it betraying his own nerves. He had only ever been intimate with one woman in his life and in truth was not sure he actually wanted this arrangement but there were customs that needed to be upheld. "Have you been well looked after?"

"Yes My Lord" Huian kept her eyes lowered showing her submissiveness which Shai had suggested. "Shai has been very kind to me and the Lodge is beautiful. It is more than I deserve considering my fathers indis...."

She didn't get to finish the sentence. "You are not responsible for the problems your father caused. The Dragon Priestess has told me of your time with her and you have suffered enough. Your future is a safe one" Tielin took hold of her hand "Please show me around your home." Huian did her best to remember the tour that she had received just a few hours earlier and with Shai in tow she was able to muddle through reasonably well. As they reached the bath-house she noticed a tub had been freshly filled. "Would My Lord like to bathe" She asked remembering once more the lesson Shai had given.

"Not at present" Tielin wasn't sure if he should say yes or no but the thought of having his guardsman present while he bathed was a little weird to him and perhaps on future visits he could find a way to keep them outside. "Please show me the rest" they continued to the large dining room and then concluded with the private quarters of Huian which were essentially a series of three rooms and a walled outside garden and decking. She had her own bedroom, lounge and a bathroom all more modern than the rest of the house. The Emperor seemed happy enough with the arrangement especially as he was a little unsure originally that the life here would be any better than that at the Sanctory up the road. Having seen it he was confident that she would be happy here especially if he treated her the way he intended. The Emperor turned to his guards and Shai, "I shall be spending the evening with Huian" he announced and noticed the girl visible gulped. The guardsman grinned at each other bowed an left although the Emperor noticed the shadow of one outside. Shai was last to leave before whispering to Huian to remember what they had discussed earlier and give her last words of encouragement.

The two were alone and Huian prepared to begin untying her dress but found Tielin stopped her hands. "No" the Emperor said. "For now I will visit you twice a week, Monday and Thursday. We shall dine together, we shall have people come to entertain us and we shall host people together. I shall allow Shai and my guards to witness you helping my bathe and then we shall retire here. You shall sleep in your bed and I shall sleep on the sofa." The Emperor suddenly seemed less serious. "You will tell Shai of my prowess in bed loud enough for my guardsman to hear and I shall naturally speak of your great beauty. You of course will be lying but I will be telling the truth. If a day comes you want me to come into your bed I shall but that shall be your choice. Do we have an agreement?"

"Whatever My Lord desires." Huian felt both flattered and disappointed. Her Emperor had just called her beautiful but had also rejected her and the conflict raised a question. "But I am supposed to have your children" she reminded him.

"I am to marry in a week or so time. That Queen shall have my children, as will any future Queens. I have little choice than to do other. You however I will tell that I find so captivating that I do not wish to ruin your body with a child." The pair chuckled slightly with the overly dramatic way the Emperor spoke of his plan. "Now I would like a tea and to get to know you." Tielin instructed.

"Yes My Lord" breathing a sigh of relief Huian let go of the tied robe belt she was about to undo and began preparing some tea for their conversation wondering whether there would ever be a time this arrangement would end.

Offline Lijiang

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Re: Tales from the Land of Two Dragons
« Reply #3 on: May 13, 2021, 11:46:26 PM »
The Golden Enclave was home to the three Imperial children. For 14 year old Princess  Wenjun  it was an exciting place, full of music, dancing, beautiful dresses and lots of friends. For 7 year old Prince Daoming it was a place where adventure waited round every corner as he was permitted to largely run wild with a gang of ten or so other noble boys. They would play games in the narrow streets of the Enclave and chase kittens pretending they were mythical beasts. The women found them highly amusing and the children had a wonderous existence. That would change in a years time when they would begin to be educated in the various Imperial Academies or Colleges depending on their families choices. For Chun however the Enclave held a strange place. On the one hand he was given the honour expected of a Prince and heir to the throne, while he was still seen as a child as he had not yet been married off, even by contract. It meant Chun remained in a strange limbo, other noble boys his age were already in arranged marriages or would be having them soon, some of his friends even had their first child, however his mother Jing had insisted that Chun must finish his education before such things could even be discussed and as the phrase said, "Happy Wife, Happy Life" and so Dragon-Emperor Tielin had agreed to his wife's edict.

Chun though had found himself a new hobby. Under the tutorlidge of Dr.Merriman he had become fascinated with History. He didn't excel at the writing of it and he struggled to remember dates but he loved the stories and loved the way his ancestors had seemed so fascinating. It was during these tales that he had learned of the goings on in the Concubine's Lodge and how in times of the past Emperors and Princes had whole regiments of beautiful women at their call. Chun had even discovered in the Imperial library writings from those who had been inside and Chun had just wanted to see within to see if the stories were true. Naturally he knew the idea of hundreds of women was not true as his father had a single concubine, Huian. She was two years older than Chun and the Prince had seen his father go and see her every Thursday. Chun had also discovered that if you pressed yourself between two walls you could slide up onto one of the low flat roofs that lead to a vaulted hall in which his readings had told him you could see the old ancient bath house. He was intrigued to see inside and find out if the story was true, that it contained over a hundred wooden bath-tubs and so he shimmied along the tiles until he found on of the windows. Peering inside he could see that it wasn't quiet true. He counted around thirty. The floor of the hall was dark grey hexagon stone slabs. At regular intervals in five rows of six tubs, a few meters between each were wooden circular tubs. By Chun's guess you could sit on the ledge within them and the water would come up to your neck. Through the centre of the room a channel of running water ran along blue tiles. It was about a meter wide wide and about a third of a meter deep and it was clear that as it entered the room on the right it had some steam rising from it, by the time it left the room that had gone. A natural geothermal spring brought warm water and wooden buckets hanging around the room showed where it was possible to scoop water up and fill the tubs, it would perhaps be a slow process but that was why there were many servants assigned to the Lodge if need be. The wall had elaborate and colourful paintings adorning them showing scenes of hunting and then of more adult themed entertainment. One end of the room had a series of smooth stone tables, places where attendants would have given the ladies who resided in the lodge massages and other treatments to pamper them. Chun was pleased that it seemed this ancient stories seemed to be true and imagined the day would come when he could pack the Lodge with the most beautiful women on Mundus. He was about to slither off the roof when he saw the door at the far end open and two women walk in. Her recognised one instantly as Huian despite her hair being down which was never usually permitted for an Imperial Lady of the Emperors Chamber outside of the Lodge. Following her was an older woman dressed in a red robe her hair pulled into a bun. Chun tried to recall her name, Shai, Shu, something like that. She was the Matron of the Lodge and responsible for the upkeep of the building and the care of its residents. Chun knew he should probably leave but he knew what was about to happen and couldn't resist watching.

Shai...that was her name, went to one of the tubs and leaned in slightly, Chun could hear the gurgle of water and supposed that someone at some point had installed some more modern plumbing and that the channel existed merely as some kind of throwback to ancient times. The tub slowly filled and then Huian moved towards it, she had been wearing a long black robe and now Shai untied it before standing behind her and slipping it off her shoulders. Chun could see her naked form and felt something excite him. He watched as she stepped down into the tub, the water slowly covering her slim figure. She was handed various soaps and lotions as Shai washed her hair. Chun was jealous that this beautiful creature gave herself to his father and that he got to share a tub with her. He watched until she began to exit the tub and Shai wrapped her in a large white towel. He made his way backwards off the roof and back down the wall. It was there that he felt a hand grab him and he felt a sense of panic as an Imperial Guardsman held him firm.

"Oh...Prince Chun." The Guardsman was not sure what to do. Only the Dragon-Emperor and his guests were permitted into the Lodge's own little compound and it was clear Chun had not been inside by invite. Chun hoped the guardsman may just let him go but then he saw Lead Guardsman Chulsie, a man dedicated to the Dragon-Emperor with no compromise.

"Bring the Prince" Chulsie motioned for the Guardsman to bring Chun and the duo followed. Chun began begging for them not to tell his parents, he was promising things well beyond his control or power but he prayed to the Dragons that his misdemenour was not reported. His prayers though were unanswered as he found himself before his father having endured an awkward drive to the Imperial Palace. Chun determined that his best course of action was honesty.

"Father I wished only to see the bath chamber. Then Huian entered and well." His face reddened and his eyes lowered. "I...I just kept watching I know I shouldn't."

"Then why do it" It was clear Tielin was angry. "You have been brought up to know more respect."

"I know" He kept his eyes on the floor. "I couldn't help it. I felt jealous of you and of my friends. They all have wives or future wives and I....well I've never even touched a girl." He felt embarassed saying those words but beyond his own family he had never even held hands with a woman, even when dancing it was expected an Imperial would not touch someone they had no connection to. Tielin did feel sorry for his son, perhaps embracing the newer ways of Mundus had left the boy isolated from his peers and that wasn't fair. The Dragon-Empress though was not pleased and was clearly expecting a fitting punishment.

"The Prince must be made to face discipline" Dragon-Empress Jing said firmly even avoiding using her own son's name. She had tried making sure women were more protected within the Empire and her son being a peeping tom was not helping her cause.

"He will" Tielin said. "You are to write a letter of apology to Huian. You are then to scrub each of the tubs within the bath-chamber. You will then spend three weeks in a farming commune. You will learn the value of the luxuries your life has granted you. Go and begin writing." Tielin pointed towards the exit to their chambers and Chun bowed dutifully and left with tears in his eyes. Tielin turned to his wife and sighed, "It is hard for him, he see's what other boys have and wants it. He knows what he could have and we have denied him for the good of the future of the Empire."

"Yes" Jing agreed, "But we all know the Imperial Family must be willing to make sacrifices. We wanted him to know Mundus. We wanted him to be seen as something different, I think we have failed. He would have been the change Mundus wished to see, not a child married off for political games, not forced marriage or any other such issue. The whole MAEA thing shows the world are not willing to accept us so perhaps we should maintain our ways. Let me choose the peasant family he visits and allow me to make the arrangements." It was clear Jing had a plan and as always Tielin trusted her.

"Very well. He will be in your safe hands."

Offline Lijiang

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Re: Tales from the Land of Two Dragons
« Reply #4 on: August 05, 2021, 09:41:18 PM »

On the roof of the Imperial Palace were a series of chambers, each residing in their own little octagonal construction. The one furthest to the North of the Palace was used for The Grand Council of the Majestic Empire, a body made up of the Dragon-Emperor himself and the 15 different High Lords from across his Empire. They meet once a month, more often if there was something Tielin believed demanded more immediate attention. Today they had just finished receiving their security update from one of the military commanders who was now backing out of the room his head bowed.

The day was part a social occasion where tea was drunk, nice food eaten and the most important nobles exchanged gossip about their Province. It was also though part serious business as each High Lord was expected to give a report on the goings on in their areas. There was nothing much of concern to Tielin, a few bandits in the mountains that the army would deal with, a landslide in another that Tielin would send the military engineers to inspect and a judge who was retiring in another that would be replaced in due course. It was after the reports that people were more free to give their opinions or concerns to Tielin who had in previous meetings given his nobles free reign to speak their minds.

"Your Imperial Majesty" High Lord Zhu Da of Huācodiàn spoke from his seat. At one point Zhu could have been Dragon-Emperor himself however the omens indicated that he would not represent the power and prestige of the position in his rule. He had naturally disagreed with the judgement but the Dragon-Priestess knew more about the taking of omens than he could ever hope to and so he had naturally bowed to her wisdom and pledged his loyalty to whoever she had picked without question. He had though since the Dragon-Emperor's appointment, nearly 9 months ago, been disappointed. The Lijiangians of the past judged their Dragon-Emperors on a number of criteria, increasing the wealth of the nation, it was clear Tielin was making strides there and Zhu could respect that. The Dragon-Emperor was expected to preside over a strong military force, Tielin was no soldier but had recognised a weakness in the Lijiangian military, Zhu though was angry that nothing had been done to get rid of those weaknesses and if anything the performance against the Seleucid military had been an embarrassment. Then there was the spiritual need of the Empire. They were fortunate to have a young Dragon-Priestess but as of yet she had no heir to inherit her religious throne, Tielin had seemingly done nothing in that regard, nor had he increased the Imperial Family. To all in Lijiang the Imperial Family were not just the Dragon-Emperor, the Dragon-Empress and their children. A successful Dragon-Emperor was expected to have many wives, a horde of children and a lodge full of beautiful women. The virility of the Dragon-Emperor was an omen for the future of the Empire. Zhu let all his concerns flow. "In the nine months you have been Dragon-Emperor neither Her Imperial Majesty the Dragon-Empress or Queen Dandan are with child, you have one concubine still without child. People are concerned that perhaps this may be a very short lived Dynasty, the last thing we need is people thinking we're about to enter mourning again."

Tielin nodded, he knew from gossip around the Golden Enclave people were concerned. Had Tielin been around in centuries past no doubt he'd have been a top diplomat managing the Empire's affairs and negotiating leaving the Emperor free to be the personification of power. He was lacking in that notion of power projection. "You are right I suspect" Tielin sighed, "My vision has been on making the Empire stronger and I believe that I have done that. Sadly not in a way our subjects may recognise. We're a nation in some ways caught in a time warp. We're making strides internationally but now need to also ensure our people see strides made traditionally. I think its time for me to tour the Empire. Prince Chun will soon spend some time with a peasant family to show he is learning about our people, shortly after that I shall establish him in his own Province and his own household. I assure you Zhu things will be done to ensure this dynasty doesn't fade." He wasn't sure he could ever imagine the horde of children he knew Zhu and those of a similar mind set would demand but he would perhaps have to bite the bullet. 

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Re: Tales from the Land of Two Dragons
« Reply #5 on: December 20, 2021, 12:31:39 AM »

At the western side of the Golden Enclave there was a a small waterway, it was odd as in the right light it appeared more green than blue and the sight of golden fish darting through its maze of underwater plants was a stark contrast. Next to this sight sat a squat stone block with a brightly painted wooden building on top. It had lied largely disused for the last few decades, its wooden beams gathering dust and its paint gently beginning to peel. Since becoming Dragon-Empress though the place had been a hive of activity first they had scrubbed the moss from the stone walls revealing the aging grey once more. Next they had sanded the whole of the building and begun the process of repainting it so that now it was once more looking as good as new. It had been Dragon Empress Jing's idea. The Golden Enclave was a magnificent place to live, "a city within the city" was how many described it but the gatehouse in the East of the Enclave was like a portal through time. Once you set foot through it then it was as though you had been transported back some 200 years or so. The way people dressed, the formality, the traditions, it was all a throw back to the Empires past. Jing was determined that this would be protected, treasured and preserved but she also had a dream that her children, and her subjects, would stride boldly through Mundus and for that little things would need to be modernised. A large crowd had gathered outside the old building to see today's proceedings, many of them clutching small golden coloured tickets in their hand all distributed through the school in the Enclave.

This was Jing's day but as always her husband and children were keen to support her. Black armoured men pushed a line through the crowd and the Imperial Family made their way towards the building. The two youngest children Princess Wenjun and Prince Daoming were at the front and seemed excited for the occasion. Their elder brother Prince Chun meanwhile walked in step with his father and seemed more reserved. Jing had been here since sunrise making sure all the preparations were in order and Queen Dandan had been helping her. A yellow ribbon stood as a barrier across the door and as the rest of the family approached she produced a large pair of scissors from behind her. "If the Dragon-Emperor would do us the honour." She handed the scissors towards Tielin who held a hand up to stop her.

"This was all your idea" he spoke loud enough for the crowd to hear. "The Golden Enclave has always been where the Dragon-Empress rules and everything here belongs to you. I am just a eager spectator." He stood to one side as Jing beamed proudly.

"Everyone!" she called over the crowd who hearing an Imperial address them fell silent. "For centuries the idea of theatre, entertainment and music in Lijiang has been brought to us by our skilled theatre performers. They will always have a special place in our nation and our hearts. We must though turn those skills they posses to a more global market and share with the world our proud cultural arts. That means modernisation, not of the dances, the songs, the plays, but of the medium. We shall embrace the cinema and as we know where the Imperial Family lead the nation follows. I am therefore honoured to welcome you all to the Enclave's Cinema." She cut the ribbon with her scissors and the crowd cheered. She walked up the steps arm and arm with her Sister-Wife Dandan once reaching the top of the stairs she turned. "Today we shall show four films, those who have a ticket for the first present yourself." An orderly line of fifty or so children accompanied by an adult began forming an orderly line as the Imperials made their way inside.

7 year old Prince Daoming gave a small squeal of delight as he walked inside. The wooden panel walls showed images of dragons from the nations folklore dancing and a giant video screen sat at one end. Rows of neatly spaced comfortable looking armchairs filled the room and upon each one was sat a box containing a drink and some strange snacks in a large paper bag. Daoming took up the seat his mother pointed him too and picked up one of the white bobbly lumps from the bag. "What is it" the Prince asked as her sniffed the strange food.

"Stop doing that your not a dog" his sister Wenjun chastised him as she knocked it from his hand but this earned a disapproving look from her mother who was annoyed that the nice new marble floor now had litter on it.

"It is called Popped Corn, I'm told that places like Ui Cenneslaig and East Moreland it is all the rage to eat it while you watch something at the cinema. It's quiet nice." She took a few pieces in her hand and popped them in her mouth. The family took their seats and noisely the cinema began to fill up, all but the chair next to him. Once the room was full save that seat a pair of figures appeared at the door and Jing rose to go and speak to them. Tielin recognised one as Shai, the Matron of the Lodge, the small Palace where the Dragon-Emperors concubines lived. In centuries gone by it was told hundreds had lived there now just one. Tielin did not recognise the girl next to her dressed in black but watched as Shai bowed to his wife and then left leaving the girl in the care of Jing. It was only as she came close that Tielin recognised her from pictures in the media.

"Husband this is Yijun. Yijun this is His Imperial Majesty the Dragon-Emperor." Immediately Tielin was impressed. She was a tall girl for a Lijingian easily standing above Jing and equal in height to himself. She was dressed in a long simple black gown and a red ribbon was tied in her long black hair which cascaded down her perfectly postured back. Her skin was pale and her facial features radiated elegance. With a well practiced motion Yijun went onto her knees before the Dragon Emperor before gracefully bending at the waist until her forehead touched the ground prostrate before her Emperor.

"I am honoured to be in His Imperial Majesties sight" the young girl said with a voice almost melodic.

"Yijun will be joining us for the day." Jing announced as Tielin helped the girl up. "Please be seated." Yijun was directed to the empty chair. The young girl was being examined constantly with sideways glances by Jing who sat the other side of her husband. Yijun had been one of the young girls whose families had sent them to the Enclave in hopes of impressing enough to become either a wife or concubine of the Dragon-Emperor. Out of the 18 girls who had arrived on Yijun had impressed Jing enough to be considered. The lights dimmed and the announcer told the audience of largely children what was about to be shown.

"While we in Lijiang respect and honour dragons the creature plays an important part in other cultures to. The Nords while not knowing true Dragons show reverence for them and they feature in many of their fictional tales." The beginning of "How To Train Your Dragon" began to play and for the vast majority in attendance it was a unique experience to see this kind of show. For the next two hours the audience laughed and giggled at the story but in the final moments when the hero seemed to be killed at the moment of victory several jumped in horror. Instinctively Yijun gripped the arm of Tielin and immediately pulled herself close before immediately realising what she had done. She expected some kind of rebuke but instead in the darkness she just saw Tielin smile at her and take a comforting hold of her hand telling her it was OK. Jing meanwhile had noticed too and ever mindful of the watchful eyes of their subjects whispered to Tielin to stop touching her. While it was likely the girl would end up in some way part of the Imperial family that had not yet been determined and until then she was just a minor noble. Tielin understood and slow released his grip of Yijun's hand but immediately missed the softness of it and wished to once more take hold of her.  It was strange to him, he had only ever experienced similar thoughts when he first meet Jing. He was a lucky man, at the opposite side of the Imperial Family sat Queen Dandan, a pretty young woman but who was submissive and meek. Tielin found her awkward and didn't think she was really ready to be a Queen yet alone the Mother of a Prince. Meanwhile back at the Lodge he had Lady Jihai, a concubine whom he had yet to actually lie with. Despite making regular visits for impression sake he had promised that he would not force her to sleep with him and so dutifully they both slept in her suite, Tielin on the couch and Jihai in her own bed but that was a lie that could only last so long as she would be expected to be with child soon. Yijun though was beautiful and seemed more confident than Dandan, perhaps if only he'd meet her before taking the young Queen in marriage. The future was now up to his wife Jing, she would determine the fate of Yijun but already Tielin was hoping for the best.