Chapter 2 *if crlq=true "Here, Master." Chen Kun appears from below, offering you a hand as you step off the carriage. It is an action borne more out of duty than any patronizing notion, so you take it despite being well able to do without. But before that, you cast a discreet gaze back into the interior of the carriage. Long Qing presses his right palm against his left fist in a mocking parody of a soldier receiving his superior officer's orders. Then he flicks his fingers at you in the universal signal of dismissal. "Your concern is touching, but I'll be going on my own way from here on." Well, if that's the way he's going to be... Your brother may be many things, but stupid or reckless he is not. And him not following you out into the Temple certainly does lower the chances of discovery. If Long Qing is half as smart as you know he is, he would've arranged for an escort to take him from here; probably his scarred personal guard, maybe even hidden among the Imperial Guards in your riding entourage - after all, what kind of personal guard leaves her master's side unless the situation is dire enough to require desperate measures? And so you merely give your brother an exasperated nod before turning your back on him. "See you, [i]huangxiong."[/i] *if crfy=true "Here, Master." Chen Kun appears from below, offering you a hand as you step off the carriage. It is an action borne more out of duty than any patronizing notion, so you take it despite being well able to do without. But before that, you cast a discreet gaze back into the interior of the carriage. Fang Yun is retrieving something red from the inside of her nude gown. Blinking, you realize that it is her court garment with the crane embroidered on it. Noticing your gaze, Fang Yun mouths something at you with dignity you didn't think possible for what is basically glorified whispering. It takes you a minute to decipher her message. "There is no need for concern. I know the layout of the Temple well and will rendezvous with my courtiers on my own." [i]... As expected of the Imperial Administrator - even when whispering, she has to use formal language…[/i] "But... If you're walking out here alone, wouldn't a disguise attract less attention?" You mouth back. This time your companion speaks outright. "I will not be seen in anything other than my official robes in this Temple. Now, please leave before they grow suspicious." There is a strangely vehement light in her violet eyes. "..." Speechless, you leave Fang Yun to her own devices as she begins to pull her red garment over her gown. *if crck=true As the carriage slows to a stop at your destination, your Personal Guard snaps back into his usual prepared self. Before you can say anything, he swings down from his seat and offers you a hand from the ground below. "Here, Master." It is an action borne more out of duty than any patronizing notion, so you take it despite being well able to do without. *if cral=true "Here, Master." Chen Kun appears from below, offering you a hand as you step off the carriage. It is an action borne more out of duty than any patronizing notion, so you take it despite being well able to do without. A wistful sigh escapes you - who knows when you will next have the chance to be alone with yourself? *page_break The ground that your feet meet is even and solid. "Thanks," you tell Chen Kun distractedly, as you take in the scenery around you. You stand in a [i]tian jing[/i], or sky-well - an open yard framed on all four sides by building blocks, their sweeping gabled roofs joining together at the ends to frame a slice of the sky above. The architecture, though modeled after the Imperial style, is painted in colors of red, white and black, instead of the brown and yellow you are used to seeing in the royal palace; in line with the decree that yellow roofs are the Emperor's exclusive right. This is the northern sky-well of Duolin Temple, connected to one of its many side entrances. You are not the first to enter from here and you will not be the last; many a noble or even royal, when seeking spiritual guidance without the publicity of a public prayer service, has used it for its discreet inaccessibility by the public for privacy, while maintaining their dignity with its stately spaciousness and design. And as the longstanding mutual beneficiary of the Emperor's public endorsement, Duolin Temple has always efficiently and confidentially provided the service for as long as you remember. In fact, you have fond memories of cozy rides with your grandmother the Dowager in her small but comfortable carriage on your way to worship here together. But that was a long time ago, you think grimly to yourself. These days your relationship with her is... distant to say the least. *page_break A soft, lovely greeting brings you out of your reverie. "A-are you really the Second ${Prince}?" A trio of women in the grey robes of Priestesses, unadorned except for the criss-crossing neckline, stand before you on the steps of the block opposite to the side entrance. They must have arrived from deeper within the Temple while you were absorbed in taking in the view. The one in the middle, a middle-aged woman with a kindly but venerable face, bows with a hand held vertically to her chest, fingers pointed skyward in the signature greeting of a priestess. The other grips a wooden staff as tall as she is, with its head carved in the shape of the character duo, 多 - the heirloom of Duolin Temple, passed down from generation to generation of the heads of the Temple. You faintly remember her from your childhood visits to Duolin Temple with the Dowager. "Second ${Prince}. My humble apologies for the delayed welcome. I am Abbot Qing An. These are my disciples, Chun and Priestess Liao Jing." Her two companions, a girl of about eleven who looks to be the one who called out to you and a stony, shorn-haired priestess with an ageless face, bow to you in turn. *page_break "Please follow me. I will lead you to the Priestess responsible for your ceremony later." You follow Abbot Qing An through a series of arches and doorways, struck by the silence of your surroundings. Nary a soul crosses your path even as you venture deeper and deeper into the Temple. Chen Kun walks a beat behind you as usual, alert for any possible threats and mapping out the landscape for an emergency escape plan. While Priestess Liao Jing keeps pace with her superior, the little girl named Chun drops back. Walking beside you, she cranes her head to the side in an effort to look up at you. "S-second ${Prince}! I mean, my liege! I'm Chun! Priestess Liao Jing says I must stay away from you, but... If it's as a guide, it's okay, right? Please, ask me anything!" "Uh..." "Pleaseee?" Dark eyes shining with excitement stare up at you eagerly. You think you even see her tiny hands clenched into anticipatory fists by her sides. *label askchun *choice *disable_reuse #"Why is it so quiet around here today?" "It's almost noon, isn't it? I heard from the royal treasury that we're funding a free food service in celebration of the coronation ceremony... And there were hundreds of people lined up near the Temple when my carriage passed, at the least. How can it be so quiet in here, then...?" "Ah," your tiny companion replies readily, with a pleased little smile at knowing the answer to your question hanging around her lips. "That's because they're all gathered in the main courtyard and the outer-most buildings! The usual administrative quarters are swarmed by them! The sister-priestesses on duty have been complaining about how hard it is to manage the crowd since morning~" Ah, so that's how it is. From the view at the entrance arch, Duolin Temple occupies a substantial land mass, even for the most celebrated Temple in the capitol. Although to manage a Temple of this size on a day-to-day basis the priestesses must number a few hundred themselves, fencing a crowd of the size you glimpsed on the way here into restricted areas for both their own safety and your security cannot be an easy task at all. You suppose a word of commendation is in order. "Do convey my appreciation to your sisters," you say. To which Chun retorts, a mischievous light glimmering in her eyes, "I will. But what about me?" "Yes, yes... And a big thank you to the best guide I could've asked for." *if (EmpathicCold) Even though you have only just met, the innocent, cheerful girl is already growing on you. *goto askchun *disable_reuse #"I didn't hear a 'Priestess' in that title..." "And you're pretty young to be one already. Or are you still a priestess-in-training?" The question has been brewing in your mind since you saw Chun. The image of another girl cutting off the long locks of her dark blue hair that reached down to her back flashes in your mind, a distant memory from your childhood. When she chose to leave the comforts of her ancestral mansion, she set herself on the ascetic path of a priestess. That's right, she may still be living somewhere here... You wonder what Chun's story is. Surely not just any priestess-in-training gets the opportunity to accompany the Abbot around, especially to an audience with a ${Prince} right before ${his} coronation ceremony. If she is a religious prodigy this might make more sense - you've heard tales of young children raised in temples after religious figures identified them from gods-sent dreams. Or perhaps she is the daughter of powerful people - "I'm still in training, so I don't have a priestess name yet! Although Abbot Qing An promises I'll be one by the time Brother Yi Shi comes back to the capitol!" [i]-Bullseye...?[/i] "Oh? And who might this 'Brother Yi Shi' of yours be?" You ask, careful to phrase it in a teasing tone. "He's my elder brother! He's the chief local official in a province now, but we used to live right here in the capitol. Brother Yi Shi had to go far away after Papa died, but as soon as he finishes this mission from his boss, he'll be promoted back here!" Chun replies enthusiastically, her eyes shining with excitement. She must really love her brother, huh... Unbidden, a scene of your childhood with Long Qing unfolds in your mind's eye. Your joined laughter is still ringing in your ears when Chun continues, "I haven't gotten a letter in years, but Priestess Liao Jing says I mustn't trouble her with more errands to our Temple's messenger..." [i]Years?[/i] True, even with advancements in magic-enhanced pigeon messaging, specialist messengers sent out at a single person's whim remain mostly the privilege of nobles and royals. Still - a message sent along with a traveling merchant or family friend might take months to reach their destination in the realm, or at most a year. Any more than that usually suggests loss in transit or interception by a third party. [i]Hmm...[/i] And according to Chun's story, you can guess that her father might have offended the wrong person, leading to his own death and his children's banishment. It is a common enough story in the capitol. Here, under the Emperor's conservative rule, power is concentrated in the hands of the few elite loyal courtiers and their families. Those unfortunate or foolish enough to cross them often find themselves suddenly driven out of the capitol, at best, or - well, at worst, the victims never get the chance to find anything out ever again. Perhaps some old enemy is even now insidiously keeping Chun and her brother apart - maybe even with the help of someone inside the Temple. All these thoughts run through you mind at the speed of lightning. Outwardly, you merely nod at appropriate intervals as Chun rambles on about her brother. *goto askchun *disable_reuse #[i]"'Chun...'[/i] That has plenty of character variations." "Which is it?" You ask, half curious, half teasing. This is how adults talk to kids, right? Living in the enclosed environment of the palace as the younger of the royal children has given you scarce opportunity to interact with any other kids. But from today onwards, all of that will change. "The [i]chun[/i] in spring? The [i]chun[/i] as in lips? Or..." Well, that last character you have in mind is a little mean. You guess it's not a good choice if you want to build rapport with your new guide in the Temple. "Silly ${Prince}, of course it's the [i]chun[/i] for purity!" Your companion declares admonishingly. From ahead, you think you hear Abbot Qing An stifle a fond chuckle. Her companion Priestess Liao Jing turns, a stern frown on her face - for a second you think she is about to rush over and reprimand Chun. But she only shifts her gaze to you. Something darkens in her unreadable expression. Distracted, you allow Chun to take your hand. In a childlike script she traces the character for her name in your palm: 纯. Then she gives you an adorable little grin that shows her dimples - and before you know it, you are unconsciously mirroring her with a smile of your own. *goto askchun *disable_reuse #"Who is this Priestess we're going to see?" "If it's not the Abbot..." You trail off. You don't quite remember the name or face of the Priestess that crowned your brother during his own coronation six years ago, even though you had a front-row seat beside the Empress during it. "Is she the one who presided over the Crown Prince's ceremony?" "Nuh~ uh~!" Comes your answer. Chun looks up at you with surprise mixed with a childish disdain at your lack of information. "Abbot Qing An crowned our Emperor decades ago. Priestess Liao Jing says that according to tradition, as long as the Emperor lives -" at this Chun launches into a songlike chant: "long live the Emperor!" - "she may not preside over another coronation ceremony, even if she is the head of the Temple." "And so the Abbot has chosen another Priestess to officiate for you! But don't worry, I'm sure she'll do a good job! She's only been here for less than a decade, but she's already been made a administrative-level Priestess! Both the Abbot and Priestess Liao Jing think she has a bright future ahead of her in the Temple." You nod your head thoughtfully. *if (EmpathicCold) "Is that why she's too busy to come out here herself?" At that, Chun pouts up at you disapprovingly. "Oh, don't misunderstand her! That's just her character. She's... really gentle, but it's hard to talk to her sometimes. Maybe it's because of her cloistered noble upbringing... You'll see what I mean, ${Prince}! That's why even I'm not close enough to her to call her my sister-priestess." A former-noble Priestess, huh... Your mind rationally tells you that the odds are near impossible, but your irrational heart skips a beat. You force your distracted thoughts away for the moment. The truth will be revealed soon enough. "I see. Aren't you a popular little lady?" You say instead, and watch in amusement as Chun flushes indignantly upon - rightfully - sensing your teasing tone. *goto askchun *disable_reuse #"So what's the story with your sister Priestess Liao Jing?" "Priestess Liao Jing is..." Your companion falls into a pondering silence. "She's a kind sister." But there is a note of doubt in Chun's innocent voice. You look down to see a troubled expression that should have no place on a young child's face fall across her like a shadow. "She's... Really strict with me, and sometimes she says really mean things! And she told me to stop writing to Brother Yi Shi because it's a waste of good Temple paper and her time..." "Say, ${Prince} - if someone locks you up in a cage because they're afraid you'll leave them, then they must reaaally love you, right?" Chun asks, head tilted sideways up at you. From this angle the sun shines full into her face, illuminating the deadly serious light in her eyes - a stark contrast to the childish conviction in her high, innocent voice. *if (Empathic>Cold) Oh gods, what has this innocent child been through to think such a thing? On reflex a negative answer comes to mind - and then stops dead on the tip of your tongue. *if (EmpathicCold) You would be lying if you say that didn't bring a little smile to your lips. [i]How much of that is for my benefit alone, and how much is for my grandmother?[/i] You silently ponder about the incorruptibility of the Temple Priestesses as you watch them disappear from sight. *if (AmbitiousHumble) As you expected, the politics of life beyond the walls of the palace are much the same as those within. You suppose it makes sense for the Temple to keep their relationship with the royal family sweet for their own interests, especially with the close ties of cooperation between you these past generations... In contrast, the clear-eyed gaze Qin Lan regales you with is refreshingly devoid of any hidden intentions. "I am at your service, Second ${Prince}." *choice #"And I'm happy to receive it from a lady as beautiful as you are..." "... If you'll have me, of course." You quip lightly. That Qin Lan is beautiful, there is no doubt - even in the Emperor's populated harem she would count among the cream of the crop. Although on second thought that may be because of the Empress and Imperial Consort Yi's ruthless control over the other concubines - any concubine worth her salt knows better than to stand out when they don't want anyone to. It's certainly one of the only things that will call the terrible combined wrath of the two most powerful women in the harem down on a single target. Before you, your own target's shapely mouth turns up in the natural smile of someone used to deflecting such comments. Huh. So even having spent her life since maturity enclosed in the celibate environment of Duolin Temple, Qin Lan has had her share of admirers. "We are all of us beautiful, for we are made in the gods' visage by Mother Nü Wa's gentle hand." The Priestess replies with a smooth smile. That kicks you back on your heels a little. Well, that appears to have been a misstep - and just how did she get so smooth with the little practice she at least wants you to believe she has had? "Uh..." Shit, and now you're tongue-tied. This was definitely not what you had in mind when you tried to use that line on Qin Lan. "Second ${Prince}? Although I would be happy to converse further with you on the subject of beauty, I believe that we should proceed to the ceremony for now...?" The Priestess' direct words, softened by her peaceful tone, break through your daze. "Uh, yes, of course!" Under her understanding, forgiving gaze, you feel the humbling urge to apologize. "Please, lead the way..." *set Qin_Lan %-20 *page_break *goto walkwithql #"Pleased to make your acquaintance, Priestess Lan." You reply formally. No matter what the Abbot's intentions are in assigning your grandmother's great-niece - and a daughter of the illustrious Qin family, no less - as the coordinator for your coronation ceremony, you doubt they include outright sabotage. After all, although the royal family may value Duolin Temple as an ally, the Abbot's establishment arguably relies even more on your continued support. Besides, Qin Lan, like all in the service of the gods, is officially without any connection to the Qin family. You remember the determination of the young girl in the Dowager's chambers all those years ago, and the resigned disappointment in your grandmother's own face. No, you do not think Qin Lan a spy planted by her family all these years, just for the chance to undermine you. The Priestess nods serenely, a gentle smile painting her lips. "The pleasure is all mine. It will be an honor to guide you to your heaven-mandated crown, ${Prince}." [i]Heaven-mandated crown, huh...[/i] But no. Perhaps you are thinking too much into the turn of phrase. Even if the Temple is to show support for a particular royal as heir, it would be the Crown Prince instead of you - the Dowager, the member of the royal family with the closest link to them due to her devotion to the gods, has always publicly favored the Crown Prince as successor. Sometimes you even think her kind treatment of you is ironically in part compensation for her favoritism. "Let us proceed to the ceremony. I will guide you regarding the proceedings on the way." Qin Lan continues agreeably. Her pleasant manner brings a responsive smile to your face. "Please, lead the way..." *set Qin_Lan %+20 *page_break *goto walkwithql #"It's been years since I last saw you. How have you been...?" "... It must have been hard living here alone without your family at first. I don't know if you remember me, but I saw you once in the Dowager's chambers..." You ramble on, compassion for Qin Lan genuinely overflowing from your heart. In response, the Priestess merely smiles with gentle appreciation, neither pandering nor rejecting your concern. "I do, ${Prince}. I remember too holding you when you were young. You were an adorable child then, and a beautiful adult now." Her serene tone makes it impossible to decipher if she is flirting with you or merely being generous with her compliments. You blink. Judging from your memory Qin Lan has to be about seven years your elder. You suppose she may have retained more memories of your interactions than you yourself remember at that young age. "Life at the Temple, in the service of the gods, is no easy path. But I've made my choice and I believe that I've been blessed by the gods in this, for I have had no cause to regret it. ${Prince}, I am certain that you of all people in the Land will soon have cause to value the blessing of a unregrettable path in life..." "..." You sink into a retrospective silence. If it is a neutral party for advice that you seek, the Priestess might be the best choice, even if - or perhaps because - you have just been formally introduced. But before you can propose anything, Qin Lan continues agreeably, "Let us proceed to the ceremony for now. I will guide you regarding the proceedings on the way." You have no choice but to keep your thoughts to yourself for the moment. "Please, lead the way..." *set Empathic %+10 *gosub_scene subroutines increaseEmpathic *page_break *goto walkwithql #"Let's just get on to business. What do I have to do?" You see no need to sugarcoat your words to butter the Priestess up. As her own attitude suggests, your business here is purely professional - and you would rather it stay that way. To her credit, no sign of displeasure or shock appears on Qin Lan's face at your blunt words. The Priestess merely nods her head in acquiescence before replying, "I am glad that you are enthusiastic about the ceremony, ${Prince}." "Let us proceed to the ceremony. I will guide you regarding the proceedings on the way." Qin Lan continues agreeably. Her pleasant manner thaws your chilly words. "Please, lead the way..." *set Empathic %-10 *gosub_scene subroutines decreaseEmpathic *page_break *goto walkwithql *label walkwithql As you walk out of the building together with Chen Kun trailing behind, the Priestess relays to you the details of the ceremonial proceedings. "The coronation will be held outside the main hall. The royal family and a select few courtiers will be situated - and are being ushered there now - in the main courtyard between the gates and the hall. Beyond the gates and in the other half of the Temple, the other Priestesses have their hands full with the crowd gathered for the free food service the royal treasury has kindly funded the Temple to provide." Along the way you pass through the gloriously furnished main hall, the ceiling of which is composed of a hundred square tiles dipped in gold. Qin Lan stops briefly to pray in front of the statues of the gods. *if (Religion>30) You, too, take the rare opportunity to devote a few moments to your faith in person. "During the ceremony, you will enter from the main hall and proceed towards the gates, flanked by the courtiers. I will be standing by the gates to crown you. After that, ${Prince}, you will have a few moments to express yourself to your audience - but before that, please refrain from doing anything... unnecessary." Qin Lan punctuates those last words with a smile that expresses absolute faith in your ability to conduct yourself with propriety. Then she pushes the grand doors of the main hall open to reveal the courtyard beyond. *page_break The glare of the bright noon sun shines into your eyes as you step out onto the open courtyard. Compared to the sky-wall where you entered the Temple and even the outer yard of the palace from which you left, the main yard is larger in size but structurally much the same. A few personal guards stand by the verandas of the surrounding buildings, easily identifiable by their gauntlets. The space between the verandas and the red-dyed, gold-lined carpet rolled out on the middle strip of the yard that is to guide your path is dotted by velvet cushions. The select courtiers for which the cushions have been laid out mill about the courtyard in the red court robes of the aristocratic elite, their cordial exchanges interrupted by a herald's shrill call, "The Second ${Prince} has arrived!" As the sea of red bows down to you respectfully - at least in appearance - a glimpse of yellow catches your eye. According to etiquette, only one rank in the court hierarchy may move at will without a ${Prince}'s leave in greeting. That is - of course - ${his} own family. As the wearer of the yellow robes walks into view, you lower your head. "Fuhuang jinan." [i]Golden blessings of peace to the Honored Father.[/i] "At ease." A powerful voice intones. This is your father's Emperor tone; the tone that quietly but instantly commandeers the attention of everyone within hearing distance. *page_break You raise your eyes to meet the Emperor's. *if trialpass=false Despite yourself, a shiver of apprehension runs through you as you stare into his majestic yellow eyes. You well remember the cold fury directed towards you when he announced your failure of the Trials, and - worse - the disappointment in his gaze when he did so. But the face the Emperor turns towards you now is only as gravely stoic as usual. *if trialpass=true Despite yourself, a thrill of anticipation flows through you as you stare into his majestic yellow eyes. You well remember the distracted relief projected at anywhere but you when he announced your success at the Trials. Perhaps now, with state matters dispelled from the forefront of his mind, he might congratulate you - But the face the Emperor turns towards you now is only as gravely stoic as usual. Beside him stands your mother. The Empress glows with beauty, even among the richly attired aristocrats. She is dressed as on any other occasion in the public eye - that is, every minute she spends outside of the innermost rooms of her private chambers - in the full finery of import-grade silk woven by the best seamstresses in the Land. And yet the most radiant part of her is still the picture-perfect smile she displays that deepens by an imperceptible fraction when it shines upon you. Without a shadow of doubt, she live up to the image of Mother of the Land later during the ceremony once again. "My child. Today you will present yourself before the Land publicly for the first time, and receive their blessings as the Second ${Prince}." But before you can begin to feel moved by your father's uncharacteristically kind words, they divert into a more familiar vein. "I trust that you will behave as befits your status." The conversation has not escaped the attention of those around you. All eyes are on you now. While few are close enough to hear the Emperor's low words - and fewer would dare to cast an amplifying spell on the ruler of the Land - you know that the ravenous tongues of courtiers have never lacked for imagination. Whatever you say now will become gossip spread throughout the court by tomorrow in one form or another. As you look into the Emperor's serious face, the first words that come to mind are... *choice #"Yes, Honored Father." The words taste bitter even on your own tongue. All your life, you have obeyed the Emperor's will; sometimes out of piety, and others out of fear. But one thing has constantly reaffirmed your faith in his decisions - your belief that despite it all, your father always has your best interests at heart. And yet, now... After the Trials, your once steadfast faith has been badly shaken. *if trialpass=false The cold condemnation at your first true failure... The ambiguous fate dealt out to you without hesitation... How can you still trust the man standing before you now, even if you were formed from his flesh and blood? *if trialpass=true By proving your abilities you passed the Trials, but you cannot forget the underlying threat imbued in the Emperor's words to you. If you had failed... Who can say what he planned for you? How can you still trust the man standing before you now, even if you were formed from his flesh and blood? Even if you can understand the reasons for the Emperor's actions, and in the depths of your heart perhaps even expected them... You simply can't. And yet, and yet! For the sake of both your reputations, the best option for you now is to play it safe and act like nothing has changed. In response to your obedient acquiescence, the Emperor seems to relax imperceptibly. Something softens in his stern face, and when he speaks again you can almost pretend it's your father saying, "Good. We are lucky to have such a responsible and mature child..." From her place by his side, your mother smiles in relieved agreement. And then he turns from you without another word. Released from the Emperor's intense stare, you exhale a breath you didn't even know you were holding. Not even a backward glance... But I suppose it's better like this. No need for him to guess how guarded you're becoming around him... Around you, most of the gathered courtiers begin to disperse, clearing sensing that the conversation has ended. You don't think you've given them any juicy tidbits to gossip about, but the infamous talent of the court for spinning yarns should never be underestimated, either. Discreetly, you gesture to Chen Kun, who nods in understanding. He will keep an ear out for any relevant rumors that spread in court and inform you of them. *set Trusting %-10 *gosub_scene subroutines decreaseTrusting *page_break *goto talkbeforeceremony #"Is that what I'll do? I don't know, papa, I've been so tired of listening to every order you give..." The words bear a taunting edge that you don't bother to hide. All your life, you have been subject to the Emperor's will; cloistered within palace walls without even the smallest of freedoms awarded to any other child in the Land, any individual right of yours has been overruled by whatever your father thought best for you - and for the realm. And because your father happens to be the most powerful man in the Land, you have been forced to obey his every instruction. And now... Maybe it was the shock of the Trials, or the knowledge that after today even the Emperor will be bound by the rules of court to grant you freedom beyond the restrictive walls of the palace - but you no longer feel like playing the obedient royal puppet. You stare defiantly up into the Emperor's stern face, which upon hearing your words is now contorting into an expression of disappointed anger. From her place by his side, your mother makes to put a hand on your father's arm - a rare gesture of affection that makes you realize the severity of the situation - only for it to be brushed brusquely aside. A momentary expression of hurt and then displeasure flash across her face in quick succession, before she regains her composure and steps back as desired. Thunderclouds are gathering across the Emperor's face; an impression only emphasized by the dark shadow his pearly headgear casts over his forehead. When he speaks again it is in a voice the sound of crackling thunder, low and commanding, "${Fullname}. I was not asking. It is your duty as ${Prince} of the realm to act with propriety, and if you have been listening to anything I've ever taught you, you would understand that as well as I do." Around you, the gathered courtiers are murmuring amongst themselves, clearly scenting blood in the water. Your voices were still too low for anything concrete to be caught by their ears, but you can already imagine the details of the fresh gossip going around in court tomorrow. The Emperor too seems aware of th e increasingly unwelcome attention centered on you. Heaving a deep breath, he pins you with one last searching stare before turning away resolutely. "I hope you know what you're doing, child..." As you watch your father walk away from you, the bright flare of triumph that rose within you upon seeing his shocked anger dies down. A sudden repulsion wells up in your throat as you meet the delightfully scandalized gazes of the attentive courtiers. Immediately, you almost regret putting up what must have been an amusing show for them. Even at his lowest, the Emperor is still a great deal more noble than these scheming aristocrats. Discreetly, you gesture to Chen Kun, who nods in understanding. He will keep an ear out for any relevant rumors that spread in court and inform you of them. *set Empathic %-10 *gosub_scene subroutines decreaseEmpathic *page_break *goto talkbeforeceremony #"... I will." [i]Because that's what works best for both our interests.[/i] The words are delivered with conviction, despite the slight pause of hesitation before you speak them. All your life, you have obeyed the Emperor's will; because despite his oftentimes cruel indifference to your feelings, his concerns at least always align with your ambitions. Even if it is to the extent of ruthlessly casting you aside after your failure... You can appreciate your father's impartial dedication to his rule - especially because it means if you play your cards right, there is equal chance of him uncrowning the Crown Prince and placing you in power instead. Regardless of any other emotions you may feel about having the Trials thrust upon you, you fully understand that now is not the time to invite suspicions about your intentions. In response to your prompt and determined answer, the Emperor nods in satisfaction. "Good. I see that you are as sensible as always... Just like your mother." You follow his gaze to the Empress, and catch the discomfiture flashing across her face. It's only the barest hairbreadth of a second, but the glimpse is enough to set your thoughts spiraling away. Has your mother always been so sensitive to the Emperor's words? Surely the Empress' political nature has never been a secret nor an insult to your father - considering his own actions, that would be hypocrisy of the highest order. Or... Has something between them changed without your notice? Thoughtfully, you stare after the Emperor as he turns away from you. Perhaps having both his children of age and back in the palace at the same time has been a rude reminder of the merciless passage of time. Certainly, history has taught you how deadly jealousy within a royal family can be... Maybe it is time to make plans for the worst case scenario. Around you, the gathered courtiers are beginning to disperse, clearing sensing that the conversation has ended. You don't think you've given them any juicy tidbits to gossip about, but the infamous talent of the court for spinning yarns should never be underestimated, either. Discreetly, you gesture to Chen Kun, who nods in understanding. He will keep an ear out for any relevant rumors that spread in court and inform you of them. *set Ambitious %+10 *gosub_scene subroutines increaseAmbitious *page_break *goto talkbeforeceremony #"Father - must you always speak so coldly to me?" The words trip on your tongue as years of silent endurance finally come to a crashing end. All your life, you have obeyed the Emperor's will; sometimes out of piety, and others out of fear. Despite it all, he is still the man who gave you life and blood - and yet that is exactly why his cold words cut you deeper than anyone else 's can. And now, the shock of the Trials has only brought your father's uncaring attitude to the forefront of your mind. It hurts. All these years the gaping wound has festered, but now it is as if salt has been rubbed carelessly into it - and you can no longer keep your thoughts filtered any longer. You stare up into your father's eyes, and watch as a mirroring wave of hurt washes over his stoic face - but only for a split second. Then it is replaced by the Emperor's usual resolute expression. "Remember where you are. A ${Prince} must never forget to uphold ${his} dignity before ${his} people." A frown creases your father's face. Ah. Yes. Of course. You cannot believe you almost thought there was an apology incoming. It's just like the Emperor to prioritize the image of the royal family before the feelings of said family's members, or even his own. You open your mouth to shoot a counter-remark you will probably regret later, but the Emperor silences you with a reprimanding look. Shaken out of your emotional mood, you notice for the first time the courtiers gathered around you, clearly anticipating a commotion from their gleaming eyes. Immediately, the rash words die on your tongue. No matter the grievances you hold towards your father, you revile being gossiped about in the court even more. Even if this closes the window for confrontation with the Emperor permanently you cannot continue the conversation here. You bite down on your lower lip hard and nod in wordless acquiescence as your father turns away, satisfied by your apparent chastisement. Around you, the gathered courtiers are beginning to disperse, clearing sensing that the conversation has come to an end. You don't think you've given them any juicy tidbits to gossip about, but the infamous talent of the court for spinning yarns should never be underestimated, either. You gesture to Chen Kun, who nods in understanding. He will keep an ear out for any relevant rumors that spread in court and inform you of them. *set Subtle %-10 *gosub_scene subroutines decreaseSubtle *page_break *goto talkbeforeceremony *label talkbeforeceremony With the courtiers dispersing from their circle around you and the Emperor, you can finally turn your attention to other matters. The courtyard spreads out before you, an expanse of white brick dotted by red and framed in by the azure open sky above. As your eyes roam the yard a few familiar faces catch your attention. There is Crown Prince Long Qing, his auburn hair an easily recognizable signal flare even in the crowd of colorful mage hair - for the gift manifests in many among the aristocratic ranks, some by nature and others the product of deliberate marriage alliances. He too is flaunting robes dyed an opulent shade of dark purple - sporting a scandalously low collar - with the barest hint of a black form-fitting action gear peeking out under it. An insouciant smirk plays about his lips as he eyes your surroundings. At first glance he would seem a [i]wan ku zi di[/i] - a good-for-nothing young lordling with a penchant for trouble - to any self-respecting courtier. Knowing what you do, you can only silently wonder how many of them see past the veneer. Similarly surrounded by a group of red-robed courtiers in a strategically-positioned corner of the courtyard is Imperial Administrator Fang Yun. [i]Zhong xing peng yue;[/i] like the moon adored by all the stars in the sky - the idiom comes to mind as you stare at her. Unlike the female powers in the other political factions, she is free from the rules of the harem and hence able to exert her influence openly before the rest of the gathered court. Some of her supporters are white-haired courtiers reputed not only for their long years of service but also their quality, and others young geniuses such as herself with an attitude to match. And yet she alone stands at their core as their undisputed leader. Priestess Qin Lan remains behind you by the doorway. Despite her simple grey priestess robes, she glows with a beauty that rises a clear grade above the assembled courtiers'. [i]Chu yu ni er bu ran;[/i] the admirable purity of a lotus flower blooming in a puddle of mud. Perhaps there really is something about the ascetic lifestyle of Priestesses that lifts them, mind and body, above even the elite aristocrats gathered here. And it seems you are not alone in that thought. You catch several pairs of eyes lingering appreciatively on her dark blue hair and serene face. On her own part the Priestess seems unperturbed. Her own gaze falls soothingly over the courtyard with the self-confident but humble air of a master surveying her grounds. And of course, your Personal Guard Chen Kun stands alertly beside you, awaiting instruction. Since personal guards are bound to no one but their masters, they wear no common uniform. Today he is attired in plain robes that might once have been a cedar a few shades darker than his skin, but has since turned a washed-out beige from well-worn use. Even dressed in fabric inferior to that of the aristocratic audience all around you he attracts their attention. As the tallest man you know, he stands head and shoulders above most of the gathered courtiers. But any intimidating aura he may otherwise have radiated because of his stature is nullified by the serious but pleasant expression he wears at all times while surveying the area for any threats to you. There is some time before the Priestesses summon you to begin the coronation ceremony. *disable_reuse *choice #You walk towards Long Qing, who is talking to someone obscured by the roaming crowd. That red hair, so similar to the courtly red robes all around you and yet so unbearably distinct, flares like a beacon guiding your path through the crowd towards your brother. The sea of crane-embroidered robes parts before you to reveal Long Qing, striking an imposing figure as his lean but military-trained build combines in a strangely captivating way with the ostentatious purple robes he is wearing. The Crown Prince is engaged in a tense discussion with someone - as the courtiers shift and you move forwards, you catch glimpses of them. A solid frame - the dark, heavy cape of the royal army - a familiar greatsword with a hilt studded with rubies - "-Not now -" - "Qing, this isn't a matter of child's play! - entire undertaking rests on your shoulders -" - "It's exactly because of that, Uncle -!" Out of the snippets of conversation that filter over to you, the last is the loudest, almost of a guttural snarl of frustration. Long Qing's shoulders whip around violently as he turns away from his companion, just in time to nearly knock into you as you arrive on the scene. A strange, uncharacteristic look of guilt mixed with anger crosses his face before he looks down and away from you, feigning windedness. Your brother's companion is looking at you, nodding to himself while muttering something under his breath. A head of red hair and beard, salted with specks of grey but otherwise nearly identical to Long Qing's, is revealed before you. In his deep, sand-rough voice, he greets curtly, "${Prince} ${Surname}." "... Honored Uncle." The man in decorated military gear standing before you, wearing a dissatisfied expression as his eyes snap impatiently between your brother and you, is Elder Prince Long Juan. The younger brother of the Emperor - and the shared paternal uncle of both you and Long Qing. Once an established General in the capitol-stationed troops of the royal army, he now guards the distant borders - a much more ignominious station - despite barely scraping forty even now. Rumors of [i]gong gao zhen zhu[/i] - his increasing military and hence political power threatening the Emperor - abound, but whatever the true reason, the reality remains that it has been sixteen years since the Elder Prince's mobility has been restricted to the distant borders. And while he has always been as close to Long Qing as the Dowager was to you, your red-headed uncle rarely ever gives you the time of the day. *if epqknowledge=true You recall Fang Yun's information about the Elder Prince's association with the Qins. As expected, there is more truth than rumor to that... But the testy look he eyes you with now is a level above his usual disregard. Replaying the conversation you stumbled upon, you wonder what exactly it was you interrupted. "Uncle. Please - leave. I have something to discuss with ${Surname}." Long Qing's voice, when it cuts through your thoughts, is low and commanding. And calling you by your name - well, he's certainly never done that since your recent reunion. *if (Long_Qing_RO>10) A strange heat flushes your cheeks. Might this have something to do with your encounter within the carriage...? At his nephew's strained request, Long Juan visibly starts with agitation. For a second you think he may blatantly refuse - but then your uncle nods shortly and strides off in his heavy military grade boots, although not without one last confirmatory stare at your brother. And then you are alone in the crowd with Long Qing. - Who has by now recovered enough from whatever affected him to look you in the eye. "So. What are you doing here, ${brother}?" And he's back to what has become the usual greeting between you. Dark eyes stare at you accusingly. What in the world did you accidentally interrupt between your uncle and Long Qing? *if lqscent=true At this close range, your scented robes emanate the earthy fragrance of marjoram. Long Qing blinks, seemingly genuinely surprised; a heated look of molten lava pools in his eyes. Then he frowns and shakes his head violently. When he looks at you again only darkness remains once more. *set Long_Qing_RO %+10 *choice #"Uh, was that a marriage proposal?" The words blurt out before you can contain them. "Wait, no - I meant - was Uncle the proxy? Did he come with a missive from some noble lady - or lord? Ah-haha it's - it's completely all right, huangxiong! These days men who take male lovers are equally acknowledged in court - and I whole-heartedly support you! I do! And if it's from our uncle who always listens to our father in matters of importance - such as this undoubtedly is - you must have the Emperor's blessing too! Uh - I mean, you have my sincere and heartfelt congratulations, even if I do feel rather hurt that you didn't think to inform me beforehand... But that matters not in the long run... That is - when will the wedding be held?" Finally having exhausted yourself with what has become an impromptu speech, your chest heaves with exertion and anxiety. "..." Your brother stares at you, a range of emotions from suspicion to anger to bemusement playing across his face. [i]Oh gods what have I been saying... Huangxiong's going to kill me -!![/i] And then - unbelievably, abruptly, Long Qing bursts into a highly improper bout of incredulous laughter. The courtiers milling around you glance with interest at you, but make no move to intervene. You can only imagine what the rumor mill at court will have to say about this tomorrow... "Only you, ${brother}, only you could guess something like that - now of all times!" As you watch your brother nearly bend double at the apparent hilarity of the situation, a strange feeling of reassurance settles over you. So it seems that you definitely guessed wrong... Well, maybe that's for the best. You wouldn't want your brother to be preoccupied with his lover so soon after his return to the capitol - what fun would that be for you? Although speaking of proposals... You wonder how many offers your brother has received by now. True, he's only been back in the capitol for a while since he left in his childhood, but as both Crown Prince and General of the royal army, there cannot have been a lack of suitors. [i]Not to mention…[/i] Staring absentmindedly at Long Qing's lifted face, brightened by his genuinely amused smile, strands of his winter-fire hair falling over an eye... Whatever your thoughts on him are, you cannot deny that he is far from hard on the eyes. "Enough." Your brother finally says rather sharply, despite still rubbing away at what suspiciously looks like a tear at the corner of his eye. "Your ceremony will begin soon... I won't keep the star of the show long, even if you are my little sibling." With a little wave, Long Qing gives a mocking bow and disappears back into the crowd of red courtiers. Put in a strangely jovial mood by your curious turn of conversation, the thought of following him to press for an explanation for what you really happened upon dies before your reluctance to taint the pleasant atmosphere. *set Long_Qing %+10 *page_break *goto talkbeforeceremony #"Nice... garments. I'm flattered." You stare pointedly at the obnoxiously flamboyant purple robes that Long Qing is wearing. If this is his attempt at upstaging you during your own coronation ceremony... Well, he's not entirely succeeding, at least. As eye-catching and striking as your brother's garments are, they still pale in comparison to the purposely extravagant design of your ceremonial robes. Long Qing raises a haughty eyebrow. With deliberate obtuseness, he retorts, "Like what you see, little ${brother}?" He slides a flaunting hand down the front of his robes in a mocking parody of a street peddled displaying his goods. A few courtiers milling about turn and stare, some with interest, others in consternation; though at least none seem to want to intervene. You can only imagine what the rumor mill at court will have to say about this tomorrow... But you resolutely ignore his taunting bait and reach out with a finger to poke at a strip of black fabric peeking out above the purple robes. "And I suppose this too is for my benefit? Your sentiment is touching, but I have to say - your application needs work. Purple with black? At a celebratory ceremony? What would our mothers say?" While a common, expedient hue for well-fitted combat gear, black, along with white, are seen as inauspicious colors and as a result are rarely worn on official occasions without the express intention of ill will. You doubt your brother is the right kind of superstitious to wear combat gear underneath his formal robes for the sole purpose of cursing you - it's far more likely that he's aware of something you're not about today's ceremony. Still, teasing doesn't hurt... Although small tricks like this are unlikely to elicit a blush from your well-practiced brother. "... Or are you preparing yourself for something?" Long Qing stiffens visibly and takes a marked step backwards from your questing hand. "Enough of this - don't you have to prepare for your ceremony soon? Let's not waste both our time here... What I wear and what I do is none of your business, little ${brother}." Gone is the teasing princeling without a care in the world; the man standing before you now is every inch the real, troubled Long Qing you glimpsed in your conversation outside Chu Xiu Chamber. With one last complicated glance back at you, your brother turns resolutely and walks away into the crowd of red courtiers. You know better than to follow and cause what will undoubtedly become a full-blown scene before courtly eyes. *set Long_Qing_RO %+10 *page_break *goto talkbeforeceremony #"I see you, [i]huangxiong.[/i] You may fool them all, but you can't hide from me." You've had enough of evading questions and talking in circles. You considered that during your first conversation since your reunion out beside Chu Xiu Chamber, because fresh out of the Trials, you didn't wish to alienate yourself from any more members of the royal family. But now... If your brother is going to be so blatant about his scheming - right under your nose, minutes before your coronation ceremony! You can't be sure if this was merely poor planning or a deliberate, direct threat issued to you, but you see no reason not to repay him with the same treatment. Long Qing's eyes narrow at the statement. For a brief moment he appears to debate whether to smoothly continue lying his way through the situation or to answer your statement head-on. Then his eyes harden and his features twist with contempt. "Fool? I? You should look at yourself in the mirror sometime, ${brother}. Who was it that assured me that ${he} would not stand in my way just hours ago?" His raised tone and vicious words attract the attention of the courtiers milling about you. Some go as far as to stop and stare openly, although none seem interested in breaking up the impending fight building up between you. Noticing the audience you are gaining, Long Qing lowers his volume and fixes you with a truly ominous stare. "Cut the bullshit. You and I both know that a scene here at your coronation ceremony will only hurt you more than me. Leave now, before I do something we'll both regret." From the hostility radiating from his entire frame - menacing even with the frankly ridiculously flamboyant purple robes he is wearing - you can tell Long Qing means business. Now that your true feelings are out in the air between you, it seems that your brother's own attitude has gone from a superiority complex as Crown Prince to outright rivalrous hostility. As Long Qing turns on his heels and strides away, ridiculous purple robes suddenly gaining a villainous effect as it swirls after him like a cape, you watch him with careful eyes. The courtiers, sensing the Crown Prince's agitation, part wisely aside for him. Whether you intended it or not, you may have just made a dangerous new enemy at court. You will have to watch your back from now on. *set Subtle %-10 *gosub_scene subroutines decreaseSubtle *page_break *goto talkbeforeceremony #"Wow, Uncle sure was worked up... What were you talking about that got him into such a mood, [i]huangxiong?"[/i] You hedge. With your time limit before the ceremony begins, you have precious little time for lengthy subtleties. This is the best you can do; to lead to the main event with a redirected line of thought. As you stare attentively into Long Qing's face, you make sure to maintain a smile suggesting passing inquisitiveness on your own. In response, your brother levels you with a searching gaze. After a pause, a slow, disarming smile spreads across Long Qing's lips. "Our Uncle is a military man through and through, ${brother}. His aggressive manner may raise questions in the capitol, but it's an asset in rallying the troops back in the army. You wouldn't understand; but I've been there before." You ignore the slight, noting the dark light that never quite leaves your brother's eyes even as he grins, all faux affability. "But the Elder Prince hasn't been with the military for a long time now, has he?" Away from Long Juan you drop all appearances of intimacy with him. After all, he has never been your uncle like he is Long Qing's. Your brother smiles again, all deflective charm. "Some habits die hard, ${brother}. As the saying goes... Jiang shan yi gai, ben xing nan yi. You may alter even the landscape of a realm, but one's true nature cannot be easily changed." "But what exactly was it that triggered his manner, [i]huangxiong?[/i] You can't tell me that that is what the Emperor sent him to the provinces for." You press, hoping you're not pushing too hard. But you fear that if you let this thread of conversation go now, Long Qing will never allow you to bring to up ever again. And you need to know if Long Juan is planning something against you - and if Long Qing is involved in it himself. You need to know if you have to classify your own brother as a threat. Something in your words must've set him off, because Long Qing's expression closes up instantly. "I don't know what you're talking about, ${brother}, but if I were you - I would be very careful about what comes out of your mouth." And with that mildly threatening advice, he turns on his heels and walks away. The courtiers milling around you part for him, casting wondering looks your way. You grit your teeth. As much as you want to run after Long Qing and continue your line of questioning, you know better than to feed the rumor mill of the court, which is no doubt already turning its wheels from the very fact that you have been spotted speaking to each other in public. *set Subtle %+10 *gosub_scene subroutines increaseSubtle *page_break *goto talkbeforeceremony #You approach Fang Yun, still surrounded by her courtiers in a protective and tacit circle. The crowd of red-robed courtiers moves aside for you with the liquidity of water, then fill your trodden path with as much ease. You observe their faces carefully in your peripheral vision, but the courtiers' expressions remain perfectly indifferent as you pass them by. Just like their leader, indeed. Swallowed by Fang Yun's loyal officials, you are subtly guided to her at the center of their fold. When you finally reach her the Imperial Administrator has her back facing you, but her expression when she turns to you is far from surprised. Indeed, she looks faintly proud, as if she anticipated your arrival all along. "Excuse me," you hear her say to her conversation partners, two young male courtiers with an intimate air between them. Standing between you she gestures as she introduces you to each other. "Gentlemen, I present to you, of course, the one and only Second ${Prince} of our Land. Prince, these are Lord Duan and Official Xiu, both young talents with bright future prospects in court - and recently joined in matrimony." Matrimony... Two men? Ah. You have heard about the increasingly popular practice of inter-marriages between noble families in court. That alone is no news to anyone well-versed in the complicated web of connections between courtiers - marriage alliances are after all no new phenomenon. But in the wake of the influx of foreign nobles into the mix - with even the traditionalist Emperor having multiple concubines of foreign ethnicities - following leaps in progress made for portal magic all over the rapidly expanding map of the known world, conservatives worried about the shifting of power to foreign entities gradually facilitated by inter-realm marriages have taken to increase inter-family marriages - and same-sex marriages when necessary. Of course, same-sex couples - at court or elsewhere in the realm - had always been present; but recent events had encouraged many to go public with their liasions. While such relationships have always been acknowledged in the Land, marriage was reserved for men and women who could conceive and hence needed the officiality it brings in order for their children to carry the family name on. Now, however, with the invention and limited availability of the magic spell facilitating reproduction where it was once biologically impossible, some are lobbying for the Emperor to officially approve of such marriages, while others remain staunchly against recognition of marriage between same-sex couples. From her praise of the two men, you can guess which side the Imperial Administrator herself stands. The newlywed courtiers bow in greeting before retreating to give you and their leader some space to talk in relative privacy. "So, what is it that brings you into my circle?" Fang Yun asks cordially. She is dressed in her formal red robes, with her hair secured in a bun under courtly headgear. Her violet eyes watch you with composed intent as she waits for an answer. *if fyscent=true Up close, your scented robes emanate the husky fragrance of lavender. Fang Yun raises an officious eyebrow at the familiar aroma, as if in questioning. But then she smiles. "I must concede that you have stellar taste." She doesn't seem to suspect that the scent may have been chosen on purpose. *set Fang_Yun_RO %+10 *choice #"Does your acceptance mean that I'm officially an ally?" You gesture at the cluster of her courtiers all around you. While some of them are part of the greater crowd milling around the yard socializing, most of them belong to the Imperial Administrator's loyal entourage. Being welcomed into the center of their fold will be taken as a sign of your friendly relations - that is, if you don't immediately get booted out after reminding her of the social implications. But of course, Fang Yun, being the superior politician that she is, only smiles knowingly. "I would advise not getting ahead of yourself, ${Prince}. Perhaps this is more for my benefit than yours today." Well, it is true that today is your coronation ceremony, and that more eyes will be watching you than anyone else present. Every move you make will likely be scrutinized by the court tomorrow, and every interaction analyzed. Furthermore, this is technically your first public appearance. Your approaching the Imperial Administrator might be construed as an offer of alliance from your end - and Fang Yun's faction would then both reap the benefits and suffer the consequences of associating with the Second ${Prince} and losing neutrality if she openly accepts. *if (Intelligence>=30) But there is a way for Fang Yun to get the best of both worlds. If she pretends that this is only your first meeting - for if the Imperial Administrator's hold over her subordinates is as resolute as it seems, the knowledge of your previous exchange may yet be secret from even the many eyes of court - and the offer freshly made, she could explain her acceptance of you into her presence as merely courtesy and curiosity to hear a ${Prince} out. This would keep the exact results of your negotiations ambiguous - enough to assuage conservative concerns, and arouse no more suspicion as to construe an outright political attack. You say as much to the Imperial Administrator. "That is... Not inaccurate at all. Although I must add that I of course had an alternative plan ready..." Fang Yun rewards you with an approving smile that illuminates a steely determination in her discerning violet eyes. "But since you have proved yourself so astute..." She gestures at you to follow beside her. Together, you walk through the crowd of the Imperial Administrator's courtiers until you face the rest of the yard. Turning to you she nods cordially. "Thank you for your company and your words, ${Prince} ${Surname}. May we meet again soon." You understand that this is fully for the benefit of your audience, and so you are happy to play along in her suddenly tediously polite act. Before you part, Fang Yun squeezes your hand once, lightly but firmly. *set Intelligence %+10 *if (Intelligence<30) But perhaps such compromises are inevitable in the political game of a courtier's life. You say as much to the Imperial Administrator. "That is... Not particularly what I had in mind. Of course, sometimes compromises are forced upon you, but it is the mark of a superior mind to seek a beneficial solution despite the odds." Fang Yun frowns in reply, something like unsurprised disappointment surfacing in her discerning violet eyes. Ambiguously, she continues, "Now, if you would follow me..." She gestures at you to follow beside her. Together, you walk through the crowd of the Imperial Administrator's courtiers until you face the rest of the yard. Turning to you she nods cordially. "Thank you for your company and your words, ${Prince} ${Surname}. May we meet again soon." You understand that this is fully for the benefit of your audience, and so you are happy to play along in her suddenly tediously polite act. Before you part, you open your mouth to explain yourself - but Fang Yun is already turning away from you. *page_break *goto talkbeforeceremony #"H- hello again! Uh, fancy meeting you here!" You chatter excitedly, a nervous but ecstatic beam spreading your lips from ear to ear. Your hand makes an aborted movement that might be construed by someone less knowledgeable of you as a wave rescinded at the last minute. Of course, that was not what it was! At all! Around you, Fang Yun's loyal courtiers frown and mutter disapprovingly among themselves. You catch comments like, "Shamelessly trying to woo our Imperial Administrator like that! The nerve!" and "Hah, ${he}'s about to be shot down..." But any doubts you may have are swiftly dispelled when their leader proves them all wrong with a laugh like the tinkling of bells. The sound is evidently foreign enough to shock the surrounding courtiers into silence. Even you, who was hoping for exactly such a reaction, blink in amazement. For the lilting sound to come from the always serious and professional Imperial Administrator... You didn't think it possible, but now that you've heard it - how perfectly natural, and how wonderfully musical it is! Of course, a lady as luminous as Fang Yun would have a genuine laugh as beautiful as the pealing of bells! On the other hand the lady herself appears startled by the sound that just escaped her own lips. Looking about her with a stricken expression, she opens her mouth to explain - Only to be interrupted by a joyful voice: "Oh, my dear Imperial Administrator! No - Lady Fang! To finally see you relinquish the mask of coldness you cling to! Know that your openness with us only increases our respect for you, indeed exponentially!" You and Fang Yun turn in unison to a grey-haired courtier whose face is overflowing almost comedically with tears of happiness. "Ah..." Their leader begins, awkward in a way you have never seen her be. A faint flush dusts her pale cheeks, and she casts you a glance that somehow manages to channel how flustered and flattered she is at the same time before she addresses the tearful courtier directly. It takes a slightly embarrassing few moments for the Imperial Administrator to calm them down, but eventually the clamoring quiets down. Although from the quizzical and intrigued looks of some of the courtiers, you seem to only have fed another rumor at court. From the courtier's side, Fang Yun shakes her head at you and gestures for you to leave her circle. We'll speak more on this later. But there's a humored gleam in her violet eyes, and the high color remains painted across her face in two rosy clouds. *page_break *set Fang_Yun %+10 *goto talkbeforeceremony #"It seems I've quite a number of competition here." You regard the courtiers gathered protectively around Fang Yun with a casually irreverent smile. Most look away either in genuine apprehension or simple exasperation. But one particular youngster catch your roving eye and audibly mutters, "Here we go again..." Aha. There's one tugging on the hook. Before they can lower their gaze, you jump to reel the catch in. "Ah, the young courtier over there? I didn't quite catch that - do you mind repeating what you just said?" You comment pointedly, barely bothering to pretend that you're merely enquiring about a passing remark like your words suggest. In response, the courtier glares openly at you. "My liege, I for your sake shall gladly repeat my words once more. I, like many others of our brood, merely wish for you to cease your unprofessional and frankly embarrassing behavior." ... As expected from an official from Fang Yun's faction. Even jibes have to be articulated with the highest levels of linguistic expression under a concealed veneer of pleasantries. You think quietly to yourself, but the expression on your face remains mockingly affable. "Hah, see? One of the protectors of your virtue is already after me now, Imperial Administrator." You point a theatrically accusing finger at the courtier in question. At this Fang Yun, who up to this moment was standing at a corner with amusement flickering in her violet eyes, gestures with a wave for her subordinate to subsist. "That's enough. We're both running on a tight schedule here. ${Prince} ${Surname}, if there is a point to your visit, I would appreciate a more expedient delivery." Biting down what is no doubt a protest the courtier melts back into the crowd of surrounding courtiers. By now, although most of them are scandalized, a look of anticipation has snuck its way across their faces. And who are you to not finish the show you started? Regaling your audience with a smile, you turn in a circle and stop right before their leader. "I'm just a little disheartened by all the competition I'm facing for your favor, Fang Yun." Your eyes look deeply into her own as you narrow the distance between you to mere insignificant inches. Daring her to look away first. Velvet eyes as depthless as the sea stare evenly back at you without the slightest silver of fear in them. Unwittingly you find yourself drawn deeply into their enrapturing spell. The courtiers - no, even the world around you becomes an insignificant blur of noise. When you finally draw apart it is with the wistful longing of lovers ending a drawn-out kiss. But you are both of you neither lovers - nor even really friends. A myriad of interesting emotions flitter across Fang Yun's face before she resumes her characteristic mask of indifference. "Enough of your games, ${Prince}. Your time and energy would be better spent on preparations for your ceremony." With that, she turns without another word - but not before plying you with a meaningful glance. *set Fang_Yun_RO %+10 *page_break *goto talkbeforeceremony #"I see you're in support of the new marriage arrangements in court." So saying, you gesture with a hand to the two male courtiers you have just been introduced to. On their part the couple regards you with a cool but wary air. Evidently attitudes in court are not entirely favorable, despite the convention being originated from its factions. Fang Yun levels you with a considering stare. "I view it as but a natural extension of our Land's historical regard of such relationships. In the Period of Warring States there was Lord Long Yang, for love of whom the King of Wei decreed that any who sought to replace his influence as consort by offering beauties for the royal harem would have their entire clan eradicated. And against the case for nepotism, were there not Wei Qing and Huo Qu Bing, the honorable duo of uncle and nephew whom served their Emperor as both General and lover?" You nod acceptingly, as if in agreement, but then press: "Is that all?" "Of course, it indeed serves the second purpose of placating the anti-foreigner faction at court," Fang Yun concedes. "And yet solely as a solution to that it is a poor choice. My officials consist not only of those for marriage between those of the same gender, but those against it too. One solution only creates another problem without moderation - which to be a worthy leader one must exercise regardless of personal sentiment." From her speech you gather that the Imperial Administrator is referring to herself. You raise an eyebrow thoughtfully. "A worthy cause. But you'll have to be prepared for an open condemnation by the Emperor..." "Oh? Is the Emperor disposed to issue an opposing decree?" Fang Yun's tone sharpens audibly. You can almost see the well-exercised cogs in her mind turning, already brainstorming about potential policies to implement at your merest suggestion. "He has as yet given no sign of which way he will sway - but there are influential courtiers lobbying on both sides." It's more that with the Emperor's distant relationship with you and growingly apparent wariness of the Empress' political ambitions make it improbable that you know more than the Imperial Administrator about his policies, but Fang Yun doesn't have to know that. "Although if you ask me, I would guess that the Emperor privately objects to same-sex marriage but approves of the subtle relationships of old." The Emperor is a traditionalist after all - and on a more personal basis, you've never heard even the slightest rumor that your father keeps male lovers, even with the often ridiculous imagination of the court's rumor mill. Fang Yun nods in consideration at your advice. "Your words are illuminating, perhaps beyond what you yourself may think of their weight. Very well, I suppose my decision to be your audience was not mistaken. But now we must part, each to our own purpose. I wish you the best of luck in your ceremonial preparations, ${Prince}..." Thus speaking, the Imperial Administrator dismisses you with a polite but stern wave, before turning back to converse with her courtiers. *set Intelligence %+10 *page_break *goto talkbeforeceremony #Chun is now waving at you from her position beside Qin Lan. Who are you to deny the child? In the sea of courtly red robes and amid the suffocating air of politicking officials, the sight of the Priestesses in their plain, unpretentious garb is a welcome reprieve. *if (Ambitious>Humble) Even eager as you are to use them to your advantage, there are times when they grate on your nerves still. *if (AmbitiousCold) Once released from her hug, you gaze with good humor at the child before you. Yes, as a young Priestess-in-training kept by the Abbot's side, she must have lacked playmates her age. Perhaps with your sudden appearance, she has latched onto you as a fresh new companion. Well, considering your own cloistered childhood, you can certainly empathize with that... *if (EmpathicCold) You smile to yourself, imagining that this is what your daily life in court might've been like if you'd had a younger sister. In response, you reach down with a doting hand to pat Chun's head. The Priestess-in-training snuggles up to you, pleased. *if (Empathic