>>6033147
>Well it makes some sense, Smaller sprites are everywhere but the larger they are, they are typically responsible for given shrines and areas of importance to a given dragon.
>Also possible is a need for practice. You just established that you only began to see them in the last few weeks atop the Library mountain, and this has progressed as time has gone on, perhaps further practice will allow for an improvement to the ability.

We know that the older spirits aren't gone, we talked with one in the forest and there's not-so-little-Fan too.
She might have just not crossed paths with one, something we can check by passing a shrine to Shenlong or the others on our way past. However, naturally, if she didn't see them there, this opens other possible avenues.

I also thing madame Web may be knowing something about all this. Our meeting with her, she referenced intelligence but something else attracted her notice. Spiritual sensitivity? Is that why she is so attuned to ritualism?

>>6033414
supporting
also welcome back qm

>>6033414
>>6033632
Ming just need practice. Do you guys want to mention madam web to her? I'm not sure you told anyone other than Xin and Hien?

>>6033632
Thanks. Glad to be able to continue the quest.

>>6033821
Nah, We can let that secret lie.
The dragons would have a fit if they found out.

>>6034233
Sounds good to me. I'll get to writing.

"Well the smaller spirits are usually everywhere. Mostly goofing around and exploring but they're also given the task of watching over shrines and the like unless it's a shrine of great import." You explain. "More than likely you need more practice. It's only been a few months since you noticed you've been able to do it. Maybe you need to keep at it. "

"How do I do that?" Ming asks. "It's not like it's something I struggle to do."

"I'm not particularly sure either. I suppose it'd require meditation and learning to sense them while meditating? Then it become instinctual?" You guess. "Like I said, this is all new to...anyone."

Ming scribbles and her face scrunches up in thought as her tail flicks back and forth even faster. Part of you expected her to simply pounce on you as she seems to wind up in thought. You decide to give her some time and continue to scrub at the steps. You go down about half a dozen more steps before Ming comes bounding down the mountain once more. Stopping at the edge of a rock, Ming places both hands on your shoulders and says, "You can be my ghost!"

"What?"

"You can be my ghost. You said you can do the ghost thing where you can leave your body right?" She asks. "And you're way bigger than the spirits I can sense. So if you leave your body and I practice on you then I'll be able to see bigger spirits right?"

>What do you say?
>Tell Ming that you're not sure if that will work. Mortal spirits and elemental ones are quite distinct. Even if she could manage to see you that wouldn't guarantee she'd see elemental ones.
>Send Ming in Mida's direction. They used to study spirits quite extensively before the Library fell. They would probably be better suited to helping her even if they didn't have as much practical experience as you did.
>Shrug and do as Ming says. You kinda want to see what she can do not to mention you want to see if you can leave your body doing something while you project.
>Write in.

>>6034761
>comply

Whoo, free training.

>>6034761
>Shrug and do as Ming says. You kinda want to see what she can do not to mention you want to see if you can leave your body doing something while you project.

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You shrug. There wasn't any harm in going along with Ming's idea. Not to mention you were a bit curious if you could leave your body while letting your subconscious maintain control of it. "Alright, let's give it a try. Go ahead and meditate like we practiced. It shouldn't be any issue for you from what I've seen." You say as you continue to scrub. Ming quickly adopts a more relaxed sitting position and laces her fingers together index fingers pointing forward. She closes her eyes and her breathing immediately becomes faint as she relaxes.

With her meditating, you pull away from thinking of working and allow yourself to slip into the rhythm of cleaning and freeing your conscious mind to do other things. Just as quickly as Ming, your body is working as effortlessly as breathing and soon you find yourself at a small conundrum. You have no idea how to leave your body like this. It is true that with your current technique you were free to think and do complex mental activities while your body could do physical tasks without supervision but every time you extended your senses or projected your astral form you had to shut everything down. You stopped "thinking" in a nutshell. In this state, you suppose you were halfway there but you can't seem to solve the paradox that is thinking and not thinking at the same time. It felt like all those years ago when you were younger want you couldn't sleep so you fell into a spiral of trying to think about sleeping but in doing so, you kept yourself awake.

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You go down a few more steps before you give up. Ming was probably waiting on you or trying very hard to sense something that wasn't there. You didn't want to keep her waiting any longer lest she starts thinking you were playing a joke on her and the last thing you wanted was her thinking you took advantage of the thing she loves doing for a prank. You go back to full control and quickly slip into a trance and leave your body. The world around you felt more alive than the area surrounding the mountains of the Sacred Library. There was none of that unnatural emptiness that seemed to cloud your senses and made it hard to navigate the realm between the physical and the spiritual. As Ming mentioned, you see small earth sprites flit through the ground and poke their noses out to sniff the air. A few of the braver ones poke their heads out near Ming's lap but upon noticing her meditating they burrow back down disappointed and return to work. Several wind sprites race across the sky and scatter leaves about everywhere. Listening in on their chatter they seem very excited and happy that there are so many new people that seem to be able to notice their presence. To them, it feels like the Valley is going to be very lively. Your pulled away from listening in when you hear a strange ethereal splash. Turning to face your water bucket you see the familiar floating face that water sprites have. Stuck in a permanent smile, the water sprite has dissolved itself in the soapy waters and was relaxing without a care in the world.

You take a moment to be at peace with the fact that some of the children survived the attack and were alive and happy here in the Valley before turning your attention back to Ming. Her spirit is bright and vibrant but motionless. Off in the distance, you can faintly see Xin Lan's glow and form in the Jade Palace as clear as if they were standing before you. You can feel Tigress's presence as well but unlike the other two, it's simply a feeling with very little form and thus she remains invisible to your 3rd eye. Nonetheless, you feel a bit impress over the large distance you can seemingly reach out with your senses and thus can travel on foot in the astral plane.

>What do you do?
>Go and try to speak with Ming. Perhaps it's easier to be heard than seen.
>Ask one of the sprites to help you. Perhaps they can guide her to see you...or they might just break her concentration with their chatter.
>Try and "physically" interact with Ming. Maybe she can feel it and she can use that as a base. You're not sure if she can sense you like you can sense the others.
>Write in.

>>6038707
>Talk at her, Recite a few of the fundamentals of her martial arts base we helped with.

>If no reaction, try tapping her shoulder.

Im using lessons she knows, since that might tap her subconsious.

You give the small water sprite a salute before standing up. The sprite gives out a happy gurgling noise before it's facial features sink into the water to float around aimlessly. Making your way to Ming, the earth sprites peek out from the ground as they feel movement beyond the material plane but as you glance down to greet them, they dive back down. You wave your hand in front of Ming's face even though she had her eyes closed, you think she might be able to feel something just as you often feel the movement of your friends as they go about their day. "Ming can you hear me?" You ask feeling rather foolish about it. You never actually spoke to anyone who wasn't on the same side as you so it felt almost like you were speaking to a reflection or an inanimate object.

There's no response from Ming which didn't help you stop feeling like a fool but you persist a bit longer and call her name out a few times. "I guess that answers that...or maybe you can't respond without breaking concentration?" You think for a moment. That probably wasn't the case as Ming would probably be ecstatic with being able to hear you and would probably run to get your attention. You sit down next to her and think some more. You could ask the sprites to relay a message for you but that would defeat the purpose of what you were trying to do. Maybe you needed to think of something simpler. Going to complex would probably be beyond her comprehension. You think back to when you started speaking to sprites. They didn't initially speak to you but instead you could sense what vague emotion they felt and in time it was refined to intent and finally comprehensible words. If you were an elemental then you might be able to talk with her but since you were an entirely different being compared to the elementals you might need to take a few steps back.

>What do you do?
>Try and physically interact with Ming. Flick her ears and see if she reacts or do something more drastic and push her.
>Do your best and try to push you some emotions towards her. You've never really done something like that you think but it might be a good start.
>Grab one of the sprites and have a conversation with them. Maybe Ming will hear one half of it and she can have a point of reference to try and listen to the other half.
>Write in.

>>6040353
>Do your best and try to push you some emotions towards her. You've never really done something like that you think but it might be a good start.
Not related to the current task at hand, but I wonder if we could find any Dragon Veins. Leylines and all that shit. I bet there's at least one leading up to the Jade Palace. Maybe several, could be a convergence point.

>>6040372
We're gonna feel feelings. Ooh won't Xin love to hear about that. Writing.

>>6040372
Oh right. You could certainly try to find leylines and the like, but as Madam web mentioned it's probably not looked kindly upon to mess with them. That and TL doesn't really have any foundation to know where or how to start how to do so. Although you do have the compass...

When in doubt always go back to basics. It was a practical philosophy that you always seemed to fall back on and it had served you well. This time it would be no different. You focus your mind and on Ming. Normally you usually feel out for your friend's feelings and let them flow through you now you would try and push out your own feelings. You could do this easily with Renshu as if it were instinct but here you had to try which was a strange feeling. You do your best to push out some kind of feeling of curiosity or maybe welcome? Furrowing your brow, you concentrate and somehow end up tensing your muscles up and leaning towards Ming. Maybe this is why children extend their arms when pretending to fire flames or other things from their hands. Sheepishly, you do the same and reach out for Ming and continue to try to get a feeling towards your friend.

At first you concentrates has hard as you can and focus all your will to send your intent. After the second time you find yourself holding your breath, which really doesn't do much beyond confuse you further, you realize that perhaps this is not the right way. A old proverb from Oogway comes to mind,

Do not push the river. It will flow on it's own.

You exhale and relax. This time you let everything flow around you. You couldn't force yourself to understand the elements so it also stood that you couldn't force meaning. You allow yourself to fade into the world around you and become part of it's flow. Just like the sprites, you simply go along with what is happening rather than attempting to impose your will. Eventually, you hope, your intentions and emotions will reach Ming. You're not sure how much time passes but you see it. It's subtle and barely noticeable but you see it. A slight twitch in Ming's whiskers, an idle flick of her ears. You were getting something to her, you were certain! But just as you feel like you can do more Ming opens her eyes and looks around confused. Before you can do anything in response, you feel it to. A sudden shift in the air, a change as if your ears had popped due to pressure and suddenly you can hear clearly again. You turn around ready to face danger as you feel a strange presence behind you.

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Off in the distance, leaning against the Jade Palace's gates is an ox. A pair blades hang from his hips on chains as his jade green eyes study you. You stand there confused at being able to sense someone other than those closest to you and the man gives you a slight nod. You don't have a chance to move or confront him before he turns and walks behind the palace's walls vanishing and taking away that suddenly clarity away. You're pulled out of your projection as Ming shakes you away.

"Was that you?! Did you do it?" She asks excitedly. "I felt something and then suddenly everything was like...I step out of water and could see clearly."

>What do you say?
>Lie and say it was something like that. You don't think you should tell the others about this just yet seeing as they're novices when it comes to the spiritual.
>Give a half truth. Say that part of it was you but you're not sure what was the other half though you did feel something.
>Tell Ming the truth. It's best you get Xin as well. They might need to be informed.
>Write in

>>6042509
Ho shit, You survived?!

>Give a half truth.
We need to find that old Ox.

>>6042509
>Tell Ming the truth. It's best you get Xin as well. They might need to be informed.

>>6042531
>>6042525
ooh we got a tie. Try and sort spiritual shenanigans out or potentially drag our friends into it. What to do?

>>6042640
Ill change to inform them all But we can sort out our shinanigence ourselves.

Im more pondering why he was released. Perhaps. . Its to help sort out the spirit kills?

Telling the truth. Writing.

"No. At least not the second half." You say as you get up, your eyes never leaving the spot Kai had left. "Go get Xin." You say as you start to make your way up the stairs. Ming's ears droop a bit at your sudden change in attitude.

"Why? What's wrong?" She says timidly.

"I think something's happening on the other side." You reply. "I just saw a man who was condemned to hell."

"Kai?" Ming says in shock. She tugs nervously at her hair. "What would he be doing here?"

"I don't know other than he's here for me. There isn't any other reason I can think of him coming to the Valley of Peace. We better get ready in case he's come with a warning of some kind. I'll be in my room taking a look beyond the material see if I can get any answers." Ming gives you a nervous nod and the two of you quickly make your way back up the stairs into the palace.

---

The palace is quiet as you wander it's halls in your astral body. You're unsure if the specter's presence had scared off any spirits that were lingering nearby or if this was intentional. You don't feel any of that clarity you sensed when he appeared but you doubt that Kai had left. It wouldn't make any sense that his keepers would simply allow him to wander back into the world of the living. "Kai! I know you're here somewhere! Neither of us are the kind of person to make a game of this so let us talk!" You shout into the ether and immediately the sense of clarity rushes back to you. Kai seemingly fades into existence as the chains on his sides let out a ghostly echo. You notice that both sets of chains now attach themselves to a pair of cuffs on each wrists. Phantom pain echoes throughout your body as you recall the weight of bearing the sins of an entire lifetime on your own. The large ox stops a few steps away from you and simply nods.

"You're an important man Tai Lung. Two of the higher ups have sent word for you." He says in a deep rumbling voice.

"I'm surprised to see you but I don't think I'm important enough to warrant letting you free from your judgement just to send a message for me." You admit.

"You're right. I'm serving my time right now...thanks to you." Kai says. There's a hint of sincerity in his last words but you don't think you want to delay the conversation before getting sidetracked with reminiscing.

"I'm glad. You deserve a chance to redeem yourself."

"Ironically, your benefactors' disagreement with that sentiment is exactly why they want to talk to you." Kai says mirthlessly. You furrow your brow as you ponder that statement.

"Benefactors? The Great Dragon of the Wind is the only one whom I would be indebted to." You say. "I've not asked for any favors nor spoken to any of his siblings after our last meeting. Unless you mean Shenlong's Priestess? Bao doesn't seem like the kind of person to send someone in her place if it's important." Kai frowns and crosses his arms.

"I must admit that I admire your courage because I don't believe you would be stupid enough to forget the oath you made to the Great Magistrate." Kai scoffs with a brow raised. You feel a chill run down your back. You did forget. Had it really been three whole years since you made that vow? More importantly, how busy had you been to have forgotten such a thing?

"No. I've not forgotten. Not completely. In my own way, I've done my best to show Renshu and his sibling to change their ways. They may have made mistakes but they've always returned back to what I've tried to teach them. They're doing their best to change and I think that's what's important." You say looking directly into Kai's eyes. "I intend to keep my promise. No matter what."

"Yet I don't see your ward anywhere. The Great Judge is not happy that you have lost custody of him." Kai shakes his head. "But it's not my job to be the judge of your affairs. I'm simply here to tell you that your time is coming soon. Be ready to see him." You nod solemnly. There wasn't anything you could do about it beyond simply accepting it.

"I trust Renshu to do the right thing. I believe in him as he believes in me. I'm sure the Great Judge will see that he has changed. But what of Shenlong. You mentioned he is looking for me too? I can't...I haven't been able to traverse to his lands since...It's been a while since I've been able to." You say trying to avoid reminding any messenger of his of what had happened to the library.

"Things have been a real mess since the slaughter on the mountain." Kai says bluntly. "Even now the Dragons rage and for us mortals their rage is eternal. It maybe generations before their fury is quelled by time. Nonetheless, I have been ordered to escort you to both places as part of my judgement...I suggest you say your farewells to your loved ones. Worst case scenario you may never return."

"What? I'm needed here. I-" You begin before Kai cuts you off.

"I'm sorry but the Lord of Wind nor the Great Judge care. If either wish for your condemnation then it is their will. Even you cannot deny divinity. Its up to my discretion on when to bring you so I'm telling you as a courtesy for a fellow martial artist...and as a small step to repaying the opportunity you gave me however insurmountable that debt is." Kai rests his hand on one of his blades and you feel the presence of something very powerful backing him up. It's clear that he has more than just his own strength to complete his task. "Don't force me to take you by force. Not in your own home. Not among the people you love." Kai says quietly. You simply nod. The power recedes a bit and the ox returns the nod. "I'll give you until tonight...I'm sorry." He adds before turning to leave.

"Wait!" You blurt out and Kai stops. "Have you seen him? Have you spoken to Oogway?" You ask. Kai remains silent for a moment.

"No. I don't deserve to speak to him any longer. Not until my tasks are done...maybe then I can see the others..." He says before fading away and leaving you alone once more.

>What do you do?
>Write in.

>>6045047
>Give Sifu a short and condensed version, that We're travelling to the spirits. We might be back, but time works funny there, so the others will go without us of we miss the deadline. And we Love him.

>Give Ming and Xin the better view, That we are being summoned to answer for the last year of issues. Refusal isn't an answer, so if we aren't back in time, they must make full headway to Renshu and help him. Remins them of his families love and our promise with him. We will catch up anyway or meet them there, The dragons have a way of getting around.

Make it firm and true that while dangerious, We will be coming back. Our stubbornness will not allow it to be otherwise.

I'd like to see Shenlong first, maybe some.comfort can be given. Small hope.

>>6045315
Also screw you judge. 3 years are gone, 10 left.
4 until the review of "is he making progress?" We're doing fine!

>>6045319
I thought the bargin ended up being 6 years with a 3 year progress report. Unless I misremembered that. Been almost that long since actually.

>>6046390
13 years for a whole calender to represent rebirth.

7 years to see if he was making any progress.

>So sure of this man's ability to change are you that I will entertain this notion but you must face his punishments. Alone. You will bear the full weight of his sins and feel but a taste of his fate should you fail. Furthermore, I will return him to life. Fully but with only 13 years to live. At the end of his time he will face judgement. Should he succeed then I will allow him to live with his ancestors and perhaps, in the unlikely event that he has lived an exceptional life I may allow him to live until his natural death. Should he fail then his sentece will only be solidfied and his death will be added to your record forevermore. Should it seem that he is not making any progress after 7 years then I will add a portion of his crimes to you. This is my offer.

>>6046480
Well looks like I fucked up then. That's my mistake.

>>6046598
Ain't no biggie chief.

Yuanchewa doesn't seem like the most patient of men, despite being actually immortal.

We're gonna take the offer to warn people. I'll get to writing in the morning. Gonna see the dragon first because we're all about bros before authority.

>>6047450
It's even better when your Bro IS the authority.

Old judge: "WHAT TIME DO YOU CALL THIS, DO YOU KNOW HOW LONG I'VE BEEN WAITING! YOU BETTER HAVE A DAMN GOOD EXPLAINATION!"

>This smug leopard motherfucker: "I got a call from my friend, Had to take it, see? You can call and check if you like, just ring the number for upstairs."

You opt to see your father first. It would be quicker and you decide to simply give him the basic details. There would be no point in adding to his worries when you were already leaving him for war in a few weeks. Then again, perhaps you were more worried about saying goodbye properly twice. "The spirit world works in mysterious ways father, so it may be some time before I return to the world of the living. My body should be fine but in the case that I am still away and our departure date arrives, the others will leave without me and I will go meet them. I doubt I will be gone long enough that my exile will be official however." Your father bears a look of confusion throughout the whole discussion though you're not surprised. Given all that you've been through, it would be hard for anyone who hasn't experienced it to be baffled and your father wasn't one you would call in tune with the spirits. All he can do is simply nod along and give you his blessing. With him appraised you get up and make your leave though something stops you at the door. "I love you father. I don't know if I've ever expressed that often enough. You took me in and raised me. You forgave me when I became everything you stood against and came seeking the impossible, forgiveness."

Shifu looks surprised once more and he does his best to hide the pain in his eyes. "I love you too, my son. I was I that didn't say it enough. A child shouldn't be expected to remind their parent of their connection."

"Perhaps not but we do not need to be who we once were. The future is always open for change. We can change." You smile and make your way out.

---

Speaking to Ming and Xin Lan took longer. They had stood by your side since the beginning and had always believed in you so they deserved to know the full story. "If the Great Judge and Shenlong are both asking for me then it stand that these will not be a simple visit. Kai has warned me that there is a possibility that I may not come back. Nonetheless, I will do everything I can do prevent that. If our deadline comes before I return then I want you guys to go ahead of me and find Renshu. I'll find you all and catch up."

"What do you mean you won't come back?!" Xin Lan shouts. "You can't just drop this on us like that and think we're going to be ok with it!"

"I have no choice in the matter and this was sprung on me just a few hours ago. Besides, one can't really say no to a god." You place a hand on Xin Lan's shoulder. "And there's nothing you or I can really do about it. All we can do is simply go along with it. You know this." You say gently. Xin Lan's face scowls and their brow furrows as they struggle to find some way refute your point. They let out a loud "Hmph!" and stamp their foot on the ground, shattering several floor tiles as they stomp their way out of the room and slamming the door behind them with enough force that the walls tremble.

"I can't say that I'm ok with this either." Ming says mournfully. "I thought we'd be past this kind of thing were you just leave us." She says tugging at her hair. "I know you can't really say no but...It just seems that just when we get you back there's always something to pull you away and inevitably something bad happens while you're gone."

"I trust you guys. You've all grown so much and continue to do so. There's no one else's hands I would leave the Valley in." You console. "More importantly, Renshu need you. He needs all of us. His family." You take Ming's hands into your own. "I'll do everything in my power to come back. That I can promise you." Ming flattens her ears and looks away, worried. "I'm sure Bao won't let anything happen either. I won't be completely alone." You insist.

"I know...I know..." She says defeated and gets up. "I'll go and find Xin. Make sure they don't go around breaking vases." You nod quietly and exhale once you were alone in the room.

---

"I want to see Shenlong first." You say as you walk up to Kai. "Perhaps I might be able to help an old friend while he mourns."

"It would be a miracle if you managed to get through to them, but you have proven to do what was thought impossible time and again." Kai says and motions for you to follow. "Come with me then." You do as you're told and being to follow the ox. You wonder if he was going to lead you to some kind of portal or perhaps a doorway to serve as a connection to the other side but before you can complete that though, you realize you are alone in an unfamiliar forest...or what remains of one. All around you is devastation. Trees uprooted and torn from the ground, snapped in two like twigs with their trunks still buried in the ground, or in pieces as a result of being flung against one another. The air around you is suffocating and heavy. Every breathe feels like trying to breath in water and your chest burns for a moment before your mind remembers you don't have any lungs. You wander forward for a minute or so before you come across a clearing. Rocks and bits of painted wood litter the ground everywhere, remnants of the altar and gazebo that once stood.

>What do you do?
>Try and find someone, anyone, that you can talk to.
>Try and leave the area. See if you can go find the little home Oogway had built himself.
>Explore the area a bit more.
>Write in.

>>6048365
>Explore the area a bit. See if we can find a few fragments of the alter to put back together.
>When we're done, Call out to him. "Great Shenlong, Master of the Wind, Your friend is here to answer your summons and offer what solace he can. Please, reveal yourself!"

He will hear us from his grove.

>>6048426
Going to try and at least tidy up the altar. Writing.

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You look at the devastation around you. You were no artisan nor a crafter so you had no idea what parts belonged to the altar or what belonged to the little homestead Bao had built for herself on this island. Still you felt compelled to try your hand at repairing the ruined altar. You grab pieces you think might have been part of the original structure but after a few moments, you realize that the exercise was a futile one. Still, you couldn't bring yourself to give up so instead you do your best to try and build a tiny shrine as best you can. Grabbing fallen twigs and with some sharp stone you managed to make some tinder. On a hunch you dig around the debris and manage to find some small fire starting equipment possibly meant to light candles and incense. With your small little offering fire, along with a few odds and ends you manage to scavenge. You give a small prayer to those who were lost before standing up and calling out into the heavens, "Great Shenlong, Master of the Wind, Your friend is here to answer your summons and offer what solace he can. Please, reveal yourself!"

The winds pick up and lightning streaks across the sky. Thunder explodes high above you as the skies seem to scream out in anguish. There is a roar that reverberates throughout your very mind and soul and Shenlong ascends from the sea of clouds. You stare in the infinity as the endless coils of the Lord of Wind shift, ravel, and unravel upon themselves as the head slowly descends down from the heavens towards you. "Shenlong! Would that we could meet in better times." You shout upwards. "When I heard you called for me I came right away to offer whatever could to ease your pain!" A bolt of lightning strikes the ground a few feet away shattering a log and sending splinters everywhere. A fire bursts froth but it's immediately smothered by a combination of the intense wind and rain that suddenly overtakes the small island. Shenlong roars once more before his voice and presence brings you to your knees.

"Tai Lung. Long have you been a friend to me and my children. You have looked after them, treated them as equals and with respect. I now call upon you now not as a friend but as my champion." You hear both above and behind you. You manage to shift your body enough to see Bao approach you. The wisps that flowed out of her eyes now a burning flame, her hair ragged and messy and her clothes torn and aged. Her face is twisted in fury and grief while tears not her own pour from her face as she speaks in both their voices. "Long have we tolerated mankind's presence upon the other realm since our departure generations upon generations ago. In return for their worship we blessed them with the means to sustain themselves, with protection from misfortune, with good health. But this sacrilege goes too far! Our children slaughtered! Their lives twisted into a foul mockery of the natural order!" Shenlong roars once more and more bolts of lightning strike the island. "It is clear that they no longer deserve our blessings and will retreat into this realm forevermore. But I will not stand idly by and allow this injustice to go unpunished! I call upon you, Tai Lung, find those responsible for this crime and kill them! Let their souls be rent from their corpses so that they may face eternal judgement at the hands of their victim's fathers!"

You struggle to remain on your knees as you feel the situation start to spiral out of control. If the dragons left the world completely, you had no idea what would occur. Could life even continue? Would they simply be at the mercy of entropy? Who would the people turn to in their times of desperation?

>What do you do?
>Write in

>>6050728
Fuck. I don't really blame them, because he's a right to be angry. But to allow this would be. . Catastrophic. I've got to go some old testemant shit.

>"Great Shenlong, You would have me slay every man, woman and Child that touches the soil? Render them all dead whoever feels the sun on their skin, air on their face or stone under foot?"

Give a pause for him to deny, or ask what the hell we mean when he's given somewhat specific directions anyway. But if he says No, then refrain with
>"Then You wish for every soul in china slain"? And after another refusal, we can ask again about mongolia, or about the ignorant of the tribe who have nothing to do with it but be related. Best move to the counter before his temper frays.

>"If these people are not guilty, why ought they be punished? Are Bao and I the only souls left on the world who are considerate of you? Shenlong, I'm sorry for what happened on the mountain, for the pain it caused you, the deaths of my friends and Sang Po and my stupidity in allowing it to happen under my nose. But while your anger and hurt is more vast than I could fathom in an eternity of meditations, I know that extends to your mercy, your love and your benevolence too. Don't give up on those who still hold true to you, People like Bao's mother, Like the Library and it's peoples, Like the old monk of Zhangzhi [I've no idea if that's how you spell the triad city]. In ages to come your wrath will cool and the Monsters who've done this will be in the grasp of the courts, please, Do not reject a world with good for all the bad which surrounds it."

That's the first part. . . for what he asks of us. . . well shit, we came to offer him what would ease his pain. And he seeks vengence.
Could make an argument for his ageless nature, that the wheel turns slowly but inevitably. But he knows that.

The pragmatists choice is just dispatching Renshu and Xin. But that'd be violating their promises to our own convenience.
So instead. . .

>"As your champion, I'd ask your authority to summon an arbiter, a warden to collect on their debts or a door through which to shove them. I will find, bind and deliver these guilty men and women to you my friend, but please don't ask me to butcher them. I've tried so very hard to change from that man, I beg that you don't need me to become him again."

Busy busy weekend. Loss of power due to someone ramming their vehicle into a power pole because of the holiday drinking among other things. Sometimes I'm wondering if I'm getting too busy to keep running this. Writing.

"Great Shenlong, You would have me slay every man, woman and Child that touches the soil? Render them all dead whoever feels the sun on their skin, air on their face or stone under foot?" You ask.

"Your words will not avail you here Tai Lung! Our decision is final!" Shenlong roars knocking you off your feet. "We will not be denied our vengeance!"

"These people are not guilty, why ought they be punished? Are Bao and I the only souls left on the world who are considerate of you? Shenlong, I'm sorry for what happened on the mountain, for the pain it caused you, the deaths of my friends and Sang Po and my stupidity in allowing it to happen under my nose. But while your anger and hurt is more vast than I could fathom in an eternity of meditations, I know that extends to your mercy, your love and your benevolence too. Don't give up on those who still hold true to you, People like Bao's mother, Like the Library and it's peoples, Like the old monk of Zhangzhi . In ages to come your wrath will cool and the Monsters who've done this will be in the grasp of the courts, please, Do not reject a world with good for all the bad which surrounds it." You persist.

"You speak of mercy?! What of the mercy afforded to my children?! The spirits were ever faithful to you mortals and their loyalty was repaid in murder! Their very being desecrated! You speak of benevolence but would your people do the same should all their children be slaughtered before them? Their bodies unfit to bury, unfit to mourn? Would you remind them to remember forgiveness? They took our gifts and slaughtered our children with it. 'Innocent' or not, we will no longer tolerate their presence any long nor will we trust our children's lives to them. Whatever hollow existence they wish to live without our power is not of our concern." Lightning begins to strike more rapidly around you and the tree trucks shift slightly as the wind begins to pick up around you. Even you begin to feel as if you're being pulled upward slightly and you begin to consciously attempt to remain on the ground. Shenlong's rage seemed to be rising once more and what would have probably have proven a good start to a debate seems to be causing your foothold in the conversation to slip.

You have often heard that desperation is the mother of innovation and it seems like the old adage rings true as for some reason you remember something Madam Web had told you long ago.

"Make them think that your idea is something that serves their purpose. The best way to get what you want is to make your opponent think it was their idea."

This reminds you of all the stories you had heard growing up. Tales where the clever hero often tricked Gods and Demons into doing what he wanted and escaping with his life. You loathe to deceive the Great Dragon like this but he was not himself due to grief and if he had his way then it could cost everyone their lives.

You had promised Hien's older brother that you would do what it took to get the job done and prevent a war. Would you do the same to save everyone?

>What do you say?
>Say that you'll do as Shenlong asks. You will kill those responsible but as a reward, you want the dragons to continue to watch over the mortal realm as their always have. You will betray everything you have taught and worked for all these years. As your friend, Shenlong would know how much it means to you. Such a request would be small in comparison to what you were giving up.
>Agree that if so many children were slaughtered like that then your countrymen would demand blood in return but only of those responsible. However, they would have the parents of the victims enact what they saw as justice not those who were sent out to capture the killers. Not only that but they would not simply abandon their vigil after that. Say that you will capture those responsible alive so that the Dragons can do as they wished with them. However, you would ask that the Dragons remain and continue to monitor the mortal realm. Hopefully if they do they can see what you mean that there still are many who remain good and faithful.
>Agree to do as you're told but ask that Bao come with you. She can serve as Shenlong's representative and eyes in the mortal world. Through her he can see who is truly responsible for what happened and to judge properly. You hope that through her interactions with mortals that Shenlong can see first hand the good mortal kind has far outshines the evil that has taken away his children. If anyone else in the world has some lee way with the dragons it would be her. Phrase the suggestion as a way for justice to be served quicker rather than the great dragon waiting for you to return to China with news.
>Stand your ground. Say that what Shenlong is asking is too much. You had made a vow to not take a life. Taught those around you about redemption and becoming a good and honorable soul. What he is asking for goes against everything you have built up. You are willing to find those responsible and bringing them back broken but you will not end their lives. Perhaps your conviction might serve as proof of humanity's good. If a person is willing to stand by their morals even against the request of a dragon then it shows that mortal kind is not so easily corrupted and worth giving a second chance. Especially if one of the dragon's friends is willing to risk their own lives to vouch for them.
>Write in.

>>6054765
Oh boy, Big snek is angry.
But we can use anger, they probably arent thinking about our words just what they think we are saying.

>Promise him "we will bring the perpertrators before the courts" and "Shenlong and his siblings will have their Justice".
>Ask for Bao to come, as a way to speed justice along.

Justice isnt always vengence. And getting them to the courts, Probably has other ways than just killing them.

>>6054886
Basically a combo of the second and third option, yeah?
I can support.

>>6054886
>>6054985
The thing about Tai Lung is that while he's not good at manipulating people, his word is as good as gold and his vows are like iron. Hopefully this is enough to sway Shenlong enough to buy you some time. Writing.

You struggle to stand. The dragon's fury seemed to bear it's weight upon you as if his killing intent were physical weights that were pressing down upon your very being. "I see. It seems I cannot convince you to change your mind, my friend. I will do as you ask. I vowed to help protect anyone who could not and bring to justice those who refused to change their evil path. You are right that my people would cry for justice if such a thing happened to their children and only their children. However, they would not simply want the people to responsible to be simply killed on the spot. They would want them to be brought back to face judgement then justice. You know that I do not wish to take a life that I have strived long and hard to put that man behind me. Not to mention that I do not have the power to bring the men before you and your siblings for judgement. So I suggest this. Allow Bao to walk the world with me. She may serve as your eyes and ears among the mortals and she may bring those responsible before you. Just as Oogway banished Kai to this realm, so too can Bao bring them to your home. Surely that will sate your desire for justice more than simply bringing them here only in spirit? Not only that but she may also deem who is responsible so that we do not condemn someone who is innocent." You have to shout to be heard above the raging storm but you do your best to sound levelheaded and reasonable. Your only hope was that Shenlong could not only hear you but could see past his rage to not interpret your response as some kind of protest.

Your gambit seems to pay off as the storm seems to abate somewhat. Even Bao seems to break free from her trance somewhat to show surprised and confusion. "My children are gone and now you suggest that I send my consort and priestess to stand among those who are undeserving of her presence?" He asks, eyes narrowing. You nod.

"As Bao once said, she and you are one and the same but at the same time you're not. She bears your power. If anyone one would be safe among mortals it would be her. Not to mention, with my friends and I with her there would no one more safe than her not to mention we would be unstoppable in bringing these people to justice." You argue. Shenlong moves closer to you their head several times than that of the Empress's palace. He seemed to be studying you, almost as if expecting some kind of trick or deception. You can only fathom the depths of pain the great dragon was feeling to suspect one of their own friends. You remain still not only to allow yourself to be studied but you were unsure if you could even move given the raw power that was being exerted over the small island. You were almost afraid that the ground below you would simply shatter outright and drop yo. It brings to mind Madam Web's secretiveness. Given what she was doing, how would the dragons react? You remain still for a while longer, unsure of what to say or do. You had spoken your mind and had nothing left to add.

Ultimately, it was Bao who broke the silence. "I want to go with him." She says quietly. Shenlong's head snaps towards Bao faster than you could blink. "Tai Lung is right. He's not a killer. Not anymore. We shouldn't force him to break his vows for out vengeance. He's done so much for us. Saved the children from Kai and had him turn himself in. Brought us together. Helped your brother see that not all who wandered his domain were evil. He even invited us to partake in a mortal festival. More importantly, he is our friend. I trust that he means the best for us. If anyone would know but a fraction of our pain then it would be him. Trust in our Champion as he trusted in us." Her words hang in the air, spoken with not a sliver of fear or uncertainty. The Great Dragon eyes Bao for a moment long before pulling back a bit.

"Very well. If you require her to deliver our retribution then so be it. She will wander the lands with you once last time before we depart for good. Do not fail me Tai Lung. Do not fail us." Shenlong proclaims and with a roar that could split a mountain ascends higher into the heavens. The storm abates and your muscles finally seem to give out now that the adrenaline slowly leaves your system leaving you sprawled on the ground trembling. Bao says nothing and simply sits down next to you. The world was not saved but at the very least you might have created a chance.

>What do you do?
>Ask to go back home. You think you had enough of the spirit world for now. The Great Judge can surely wait a day...right?
>Ask to go see the judge but ask to go alone. You don't think Bao needs to see what might happen in his halls.
>Take Bao with you and go see the judge. Best to get this over with. Maybe having someone of higher authority with you might help.
>Write in.

>>6055239
>Just take a few minutes to breathe. "Thank you Bao. Thank you."

>Go to the Great Judge, Alone.
We dont want to ruin her mood further.

>>6055239
>Take Bao with you and go see the judge. Best to get this over with. Maybe having someone of higher authority with you might help.

>>6055294
>>6055289
We got a tie between bringing our friend along or asking her to wait.

Captcha: NAWM8X

Guess it doesn't agree.

>>6055803
Ill willing to bring her with us

>>6056242
I am >>6055289

>>6056246
>>6056242
Alright. We'll take Bao. Writing.

You lay for a while trying to recuperate from the strain you put your mind through by facing a God's fury. You feel tired both emotionally and whatever amounts to physically in the spirit world. However, as it always is, there is always much more to be done and you don't have the liberty to simply wait until you were ready. "We need to go." You say out loud more to yourself than to Bao. Dread and apprehension writhe and claw at every fiber of your being as your mind fights against remembering your time in Hell and yet things slip through to haunt you. You slowly get to your feet as does your companion. Without saying a word, Bao begins to walk away and you follow her as she leads you to the hall of the Great Judge Yánluówáng. Just as with Kai and as it always seems to be with the spirit world, it takes a few steps before your mind catches up and registers that your suddenly in a completely different location.

---

You find yourself in the same long hall from years ago. Impossibly long, it is here where the dead take their 10,000 steps to reflect upon their past deeds and life before being judged by the Great Judge himself. Along both sides of the hall are the same bloody visages that had lined this walk before only this time instead of hundreds it seemed like thousands. "These are the people Renshu murdered." You find yourself speaking outload. You wouldn't be surprised if Bao already knew this but you couldn't stand the silence anymore. "Those that walk these halls are greeted by their loved ones if they chose to live a virtuous life. Those that did not must face the consequences of their actions, both figuratively and literally." You say.

"I know." Bao replies stoically, her gaze never leaving from looking straight ahead. "But you might want to take a second look." You glance at Bao in confusion before turning your gaze to the denizens lining the hallway. You see the familiar looks of anger and agony but to your surprise you see that they are the minority among the thousands. The rest of the crowd were still covered in blood but they bore no visible wounds. More confusingly these spirits seemed at peace and were smiling at you. Others had looks of bittersweet acceptance but the feelings of gratitude still emanated. As you continue your walk, you note that it's taking a lot longer to reach the end of the hall almost as if each step gives you no distance and yet you know you are walking by this crowd of spirits.

File: dd7722586bf59cee45093b1f2(...).jpg (64 KB, 564x798)

64 KB JPG

Furthermore you note the brightness in the hall. Though darkness still clung to the edges of this courtroom, the one dim bowls of charcoal now burned brightly in concert with the torches that lined the pillars of the hallway. It gave the effect of walking through a well lit corridor at night with the flames providing shelter and comfort from the night. Even so, you note that this balance was not as stable as it looks at first glance. The darkness of the hallway seems to try and claw at the light, probing and testing it's strength, ever looking for a weak spot to reclaim it's domain once more.

It feels like hours before you make any progress and you remember what one of your jailers once told you.

This hall is longer than it seems. It is the 10,000 steps of penance and gives the judges time to reflect on the nature of their life and their deeds. Though it seems your friend is not in the mood to do so.

Your heart skips a beat and begins to race. If it was taking you this long to get anywhere then it must mean the owner was taking the time to reflect and if that was the case...

You try to settle your mind and fight the urge to run forward but you could not help and look around for any sign of him. Maybe the ears, or perhaps a stripe, anything to quell the anxiety. Your journey finally comes to an end as you reach where Yánluówáng was sitting and towering above you all, his face in it's usual scowl. At the foot of his desk was a large grey rabbit with his back turned to you. Streaks of black ran down the back of his head and spine with others coming out perpendicular across his cheeks and arms.

>What do you do?
>Run to hug the rabbit. You haven't seen him in so long, felt his mind brush against yours. Though you struggled to express your feelings, you couldn't deny how much you missed him.
>Stand next to him and wait to be spoken to by the Great Judge. You're don't want to seem improper given the gravity of the situation.
>Speak up and ask why you have been summoned. It is far too early for you to be here for Renshu's progress report and he shouldn't be held accountable for not being with you.
>Ask Bao for some help in speaking with Yánluówáng. She supercedes his authority due to technically also being Shenlong. You're not sure if the Great Judge will appreciate this though.
>Write in.

>>6056782
>Stand next to him and wait to be spoken to by the Great Judge. You don't want to seem improper given the gravity of the situation.

>>6056782
>Run and Hug the rabbit.

Fuck propriety, our boy needs a spirit hug. It's like a hug, but spiritual. I would also pull out the "why the hell are we here judge", but the chance to be close to our loved one more than excuses it.

And since I predict a stalemate, I'll roll a dice in the next post. Because dice must break, for I shall not give up the cuddles.

Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>6056890
>>6056883
I'm a forgetful fuck.

>>6057007
DICE YOU HAVE BETRAYED ME!

but such is fairness. Bah Propriety was always the least important virtue.

>>6057010
The dice has made it's decision. No hugging the husbun. Writing.

Despite everything telling you to do so, you refrain running over and pulling the bunny into a tight hug. You didn't want to give the Great Judge any reason to think you had shirked your duty or perhaps thought less of it. Instead you simply walk up and stand beside him as you wait for the judge to address you. Bao for her part simply stands behind you and remains silent. Yánluówáng watches your small group with smoldering eyes for a moment before speaking in his usual booming voice, "You're late. I had not realized that when I had given Kai the freedom to choose when to approach you that he would take his time as leisurely as this task is compared to his usual work."

You don't have time to think of a response when Bao speaks up. "He had other matters to attend to. The Lord of Wind requested his champion's presence. If this is an issue for you then please bring your concerns to us." She says coolly. In all your years, after all your travels and the many impossible experiences you had lived through, one of the things you would have never even conceived of being a thing was to see the Great Judge of the Dead look bewildered. He quickly returns to his usual glower and scowl but the image of the judge's face would forever be burned into your mind. He taps the end of his brush against the table a few times before speaking.

"Circumstances aside, we have some things to discuss." He says.

"Forgive my ignorance magistrate, but I thought we were not to meet for a few more years." You say. Yánluówáng's glare narrows as he turns his attention to you.

"The circumstances have changed given what has happened in the mortal world. Souls being prevented from seeing their ancestors, children of the gods missing, and now the dead wander the lands! This is a mockery of life and death! Given that the Dragons shall be leaving the world once this business with their children's murderer is over, I doubt that any of you will live long enough to see the end of our contract. While I loathe to go back on my word, know that I do this for your benefit! I offer you a chance to explain yourself!" The Judge roars as his usual fire comes back in force. "For starters, why have you lost sight of your detainee?!" He continues pointing his brush at Renshu who up until now, has not once glanced at your direction. You turn to look at him just as he glances at you with the look of someone who was indulging in a guilty pleasure. But what catches his attention is his eyes. They stoic, almost at peace or at least some kind of facsimile of it, but mixed in was a deep sadness or perhaps remorse. The eyes of someone coming to terms with something but still feeling the sorrow that comes with it.

You risk another second of looking into one another's eyes before you turn away to answer the great judge.

>What do you say?
>Say that the circumstances behind losing track of Renshu were out of your control not out of a lack of responsibility. However, you are currently on your way to meeting up with him once more.
>Say that you did not mean to lose track of Renshu but this is the perfect opportunity for him to prove himself a changed man. If he can show that he is no longer person he once was without your supervision then it is proof that he is indeed improving.
>Try and deflect the question to ask your own. Perhaps you might be able to glean some information that Shenlong was too upset to tell you. (What do you ask?)
>Write in.

>>6057372
>I was at the epicenter of this catastrophe with my family, the great library. I'd elected to take on the injuries of a child and went into extended meditation to heal them which took several months. And during those months, the library was attacked by Mongolian forces and crow witches and our friends the children of the dragons were murdered. In the Chaos, my family split as I was hidden in a tomb to keep me safe until I awoke again. While I've gathered the rest of my family again and the blessings of the royal family to help, Renshu was taken I believe against his will, northwards out of china to Mongolia. I'm heading there myself soon, now prepared for the trip.

>It would be a reassurance if Renshu could relay his version of events from the attack, or at least how he was taken north and anything he has learned about these crows and this Aleskander, as I believe some should have already arrived to you, Great Judge, and they may have useful information to our Task of bringing the rest to Justice. But we can discuss them later, Renshu's the important part of this meeting.

While I trust Renshu to be the second best bun outside of our sight, we shouldn't play all of our cards at the opening hand. See how the judge plays his.

>>6057424
Big speech time. Writing.

"I was at the epicenter of this catastrophe with my family, the great library. I'd elected to take on the injuries of a child and went into extended meditation to heal them which took several months. And during those months, the library was attacked by Mongolian forces and crow witches and our friends the children of the dragons were murdered. In the Chaos, my family split as I was hidden in a tomb to keep me safe until I awoke again. While I've gathered the rest of my family again and the blessings of the royal family to help, Renshu was taken I believe against his will, northwards out of china to Mongolia. I'm heading there myself soon, now prepared for the trip." You explain and motion to Renshu. "It would be a reassurance if Renshu could relay his version of events from the attack, or at least how he was taken north and anything he has learned about these crows and this Aleskander, as I believe some should have already arrived to you, Great Judge, and they may have useful information to our Task of bringing the rest to Justice. But we can discuss them later, Renshu's the important part of this meeting."

Yánluówáng's gaze never leaves you as you explain what had happened to you before the attack on the library. Truth be told you didn't know what to expect from the judge. Would he even care about the circumstances? You had heard about some judges in the mortal world that would condemn a person regardless of the circumstances adhering only to the letter of the law but they weren't presiding over matters of heaven or hell. You hope that the Great Judge's position meant he could not afford to be so easily swayed by emotion or pettiness. Even so, the last time you were here it was pretty much an open and shut case. Now you hope that things were not so clear and that it would give you some more leeway with the situation at hand. It feels like an eternity before the judge speaks, "Very well. I cannot render judgement until I hear the entirety of this story. The...detainee may speak his piece."

"Thank you, your honor." Renshu finally speaks up. His voice sounded so familiar and so distant much like a memory from long ago. "I will not bore you with the details leading up to the attack. It was all merely pointless philosophy." He says quietly. "As it always seems to be, it wasn't until things started to seem hopeful that things all went wrong..."

---

"Are you sure that is your answer?"

The large white bear sat across from you, his tea left untouched. Being from a foreigner, it seemed like Chinese tea was not to his liking. Nonetheless, you made it a point to bring a pot of the stuff to every meeting under the guise of good will. A façade you played to perfection. In reality, you were being petty and you could have easily brought something more to the man's taste but you were mad. Mad that you couldn't be left alone to live the peaceful life you wanted with your family. Mad that these foreigners came to destroy the city that meant so much to the man you loved.

"Yes. We will not simply hand the city over to you and your army." You say calmly as you pour another cup of bitter tea. A strange twinge goes through you as you do so. Was this guilt? Was it because this petty little act could undermine your attempts to defend the city or perhaps that your beloved would have disapproved of your little act of defiance for the exact same reason. Or perhaps...could it be that you felt bad for the man sitting before you and the situation he was in. The man's large brow furrows in confusion and his next words were chosen carefully though it was less out of the delicacy of the situation and more out of him speaking a foreign language.

"I...do not understand. Do you not wish to survive?" He asks. You wouldn't learn the weight of that question and the confusion behind it until much later. Aleskander's people came from a frigid land where food was scarce and what little the cool summers could provide were all spent on surviving the next winter. Birth rate was monitored closely as too many children would strain his tribe's resources and being born too late would mean the cold could take both the newborn and the weakened mother. To him, the thought of dying for a piece of land when the entire country was a fertile paradise was unthinkable. At that moment however, you knew none of this and despite knowing his confusion was genuine the question aggravated you.

"You know, for one who calls himself a pacifist you are certainly intent on having us fight." You muse as you sip your tea.

"You're language...it is difficult to speak." Aleskander says. "I have said before, I do not wish to hurt anyone. I have been ordered to destroy your city but I have not been ordered to kill anyone. If you all leave then I vow not to harm anyone. Is living not more important than your homes?" He asks. Despite his outward appearance you could see the desperation in his eyes, the quiver in his voice. He was afraid and if what he had told you was true then he was afraid of having to fight. You doubt it was a fear of getting hurt as the scars would suggest but rather a fear of having to hurt others. Whatever his motives were, you had the upper hand in this discussion. A perfect position to extract information from the enemy.

>What do you say?
>Ask how long has he been doing this. Quite a while no doubt but perhaps this line of questioning will indirectly give you some information.
>Ask why he's doing this. It's clear that this line of work is not for him. More importantly, you think Tai Lung would be happy to have this information...if only he was here.
>Ask about his superior. Everyone you met before Aleskander was...less talkative. Given that the two of you were foreigners to Mongolia perhaps his loyalty to the person behind this would be more tenuous.
>Write in.

>>6061055
>Ask why he's doing this. It's clear that this line of work is not for him. More importantly, you think Tai Lung would be happy to have this information...if only he was here.

>>6061055
>Why is he doing this?

>>6061066
>>6061167
Asking why. Maybe this is how one learns to care about things. Writing.

"Some would argue otherwise. These people have lived here their entire lives, raised families generations old, dedicated their entire lives to furthering their craft here. To ask them to abandon all that would be unthinkable. It would be as if saying that their dedication and commitment was all for nothing. Just as some people would do anything to take that away so too will they do anything to keep it safe." You say while setting down your drink. "Which is curious that someone who doesn't wish to harm anyone would be here at the forefront of it all. I suppose the real question is, why?" You ask in the same tone of voice you used to take with Xin Lan when they didn't want to train. Calm, with a hint of danger buried underneath. Aleskander's eyes shift and they begin to speak before you cut them off, a classic tactic to show that you were in control of the conversation. "I don't care what you think I want to hear. We've been having these back and forths for several days in hopes of finding some kind of peaceful resolution to all this. So if you wish truly wish to end things peacefully then I suggest you speak openly."

Aleskander's eyes shift around as he tries to avoid your gaze before he closes them and sighs. "You are right. I do not understand fully why it is you and your people want to stay here but if I am to destroy this place then you deserve to know why." The large bear stands up and moves past you to the other end of the tent the two of you were sitting in. Opening the tent flaps he barks some orders to the two men standing guard before doing his best to button up the flaps shut. He lumbers back to his side of the table and listens for a moment. Your ears can easily detect the sounds of footsteps walking away from the surrounding area but nothing to indicate that something untoward was occurring. It simply seemed like several guards were being relived of duty. A bit longer and the bear leans in closer before speaking in a quieter tone, almost conspiratorially. "I wish that things were not as they are now. Your land, it is beautiful. I have never seen so many flowers and plants alive at one time. What little I've seen of your people from a distance, they seem happy and unbothered by the coming cold. This place...I do not know the word but to our people we would call it paй. It is a word we use for a place such as this. A place of prosperity, peace, without fear of hunger or death. I am sorry to bring such evil into this place but just like you said, I must do anything to protect my people."

You cross your arms. "So, it is a matter of land then. Has Mongolia grown so much and so fast that it can no longer contain it's people? That you cannot simply send someone to trade?" You ask. Aleskander shakes his head.

"This I do not know but perhaps you do not understand. I am not from this country. This Mongolia. I am from far to the north. Where the cold can freeze your blood if you are not careful. We do not have a name for this place other than home. My people and I lived there in peace. Sometimes we would find foreigners who traveled too far north or had lost their way and we would do what we could to help them. Sometimes, even stranger still, we would find people who came with purpose to trade with us or other people there at the time. Though we do not have much to offer, we would trade what we could for food or perhaps a weapon. We knew nothing nor cared for events of the south. One day, however, we group of people came to visit us. These were not lost travelers nor were they traders. They came as conquerors."

"If this land is so inhospitable as you say...Then they weren't there to attain land. They wanted people." You surmise and the bear nods his head before continuing.

"Because of the nature of the land my people are strong and hardy. These people wanted soldiers. People for killing others. My tribe has few warriors to protect ourselves against other natives that may wish to do us harm. But those fights are nothing compared to the scale of murder I've seen in Mongolia where entire camps are killed if they do not join. Most of us are peaceful and simply wish to live our lives. As my people's Shaman, I pledged my life to be one of peace and enlightenment. I live to pass down the wisdom of our ancestors to the younger generation rather than fight to protect. But when this man spoke to us, I saw no wisdom in his eyes. He promised us better lands, that we would rule over others and would never need to worry about hunger again. But all I saw was greed. He saw us as tools and nothing more. I knew that once he had used us for his own ends that we would be forgotten and I knew he would not take no as an answer. So I lied and offered myself to speak to his leader about this agreement. While I traveled to this man's camp, my people waited for nightfall when the lands become pitch black and they fled. Though we are large, we are not as clumsy as some would think and knowing the lands better than anyone they escaped. This of course angered the invaders and they though they threatened to hunt and kill my people I knew they would not survive the wilderness alone. It was not until they took me prisoner that I saw the true scope of their army. Should they turn attention to the north, there would be no force in the world to stop them. I was fortunate that the man in charge saw my actions favorably and so he offered my a bargain. I would serve in his army until he saw fit to release me and upon his victory he would leave my people and it's lands alone. So I have broken my vows of peace and have served as a killer since then." Aleskander concludes.

"But you don't believe that, do you?" You guess.

"No. Soon after, I began hearing rumors that should I begin to show resistance or if try to defy my order then he would have his army ready to march north and kill all who live there. My people are not the only ones who live in my homeland and so I no longer fight for simply the ones I lived with but now all of the north are my people. I can only hope that fate is merciful and once this is all finished that a miracle might happen and our deal will be honored." Aleskander shakes his head. "But I did not know that this war would spill down to this place of beauty. That is why I ask you all to leave. My orders are to simply destroy this place and return not to kill all who live here." You resist the urge to sigh though you are starting to see why Tai Lung tends to do it so much. Regardless of your anger, you knew that he would not simply hear that and dismiss it. It was part of his charm for sure but it could be frustrating at times. Simply killing everyone here would mark the end of it all. Still, your mind wanders back to all Tai Lung had done for you and for Xin Lan. In your heart, you knew you couldn't betray his faith in you and you weren't sure you could live knowing you had betrayed it. The worst part of all this was that you knew this man wasn't lying to you. There was a decision to be made here, you just weren't sure what was the right one.

>What do you do?
>Try and buy some more time to plot something out. Ask him about something else. (What do you ask?)
>Say that you sympathize with his plight but there is nothing you can do. You can only hope that there won't be so many lives lost on the day the forces clash.
>Offer to help him. This is what Tai Lung would do regardless of the circumstances especially since he sounds remorseful. Plus having another ally who knew of the enemy would be good.
>Write in.

>>6062187
>Appeal to his shamanistic side. Explain that this is a highly sacred place, tell him of the spiritual lore you know of. Make sure he knows and feels the consequence of bringing destruction and spilling blood here. The consequences reach further than just this city alone.

>>6062187
While I support >>6062232
I feel that we also need to ask.

>If these are your only orders, think closely. Who was brought with you that is not normally assigned to operations such as this. Or any given artifacts and their purpose. Something has drawn your masters down to China, any irregularity might be a key.

>>6062242
>>6062232
Look at me. Posting more than once a day. Writing.

"Then as a Shaman you understand that there are places that are highly sacred, no? I'm afraid you have been set up or at the very least, this might be meant to be your last job." You pour another drink quietly and push it to Aleskander. "You might want to drink for this one because I doubt even you would be willing to bend your morals if you knew the full extent of what you're doing. You see this is where I will speak plainly to you. You are planning on attacking the most holy of sites in all the country. Here in this city resides the children of the Dragons, the very gods themselves. This land was blessed and founded in concert with mortals beings to serve as their safe haven. Though you may not be aware or even worship our Gods, surely you must know the dire consequences of destroying such a place both spiritually and in the mortal world?" You explain as you take a deep drink of our own cup. "I presume you were not told about that when you were given your orders were you?"

Aleskander eyes the drink for a moment before taking the cup in his large hand and downing it with a shudder. A shudder you doubt is a result of the drink's bitterness. "If you destroy this place the Gods will demand blood and no force in the world will be able to stop them. Of course if you find your spiritualism lacking then you must know that this place bears more than just the blessing of the gods. Every bit of knowledge out people has ever conceived rests here. Every idea, every story, every moment of history and much more that the rest of China has not even had the chance to experience. If you bring this place to ruin then you will deny all that to future generations. Would you do that? Could you do that? It is easy for someone to give in to the violence and turn their back on their vows but can you so easily forsake that which you spend your entire life doing? If in the event that you were free to go back to your people and their safety is assured could you look them in the eyes knowing what you did here to another group of people on such a magnitude that even the Gods could not turn their gaze away? I doubt you'd be able to tell them." As you speak, you find yourself wishing that you could speak as Tai Lung could. To somehow rouse hope and courage within the most hopeless of people such as yourself. Perhaps if the two of you swapped places he might have given a speech that could have convinced him to believe in your cause and perhaps inspire hope that his people could break free and fight back against a common foe. But you were not him and your tools were of cruelty and fear. If such things were the only ones available then you would simply have to use them for the greater good.

"I...cannot." The white bear finally speaks in a quiet voice. "I knew that perhaps I would be forced to destroy things people hold dear but...if the people lived then such actions would not be truly harmful. There could always be places else to go but...to try and destroy a people's history. To deny their children their birthright, their heritage." Aleskander buries his face in his hands.

"You're right. Should you do this and China falls then there will be nothing to salvage. You'd have erased them from history like ash in the wind." You add, twisting the knife some more. "Furthermore, if the mainland finds out that it was you who was behind the attack on his place and they learn that you are not from Mongolia then you will have another nation who will turn it's army towards you and your people. In short, you've been set up as scapegoat. It's the perfect setup regardless what happens. If you die in the attack then Mongolia is free to move and capture your people, if you survive then the blame is shifted away from them for a moment. Given that they are willing to destroy a place like this I don't need to guess what they do to those who fail them."

"I...my people." Aleskander says despondent. "I just wanted to protect them..."

"You've gone a dark path Aleskander but as someone close to me often says, if you truly wish to change then there is always a second chance." You assure. Alexander looks up at you, desperation in his eyes. Guilt runs down your spine once more not because of your methods but more because of what you think the others would see you as if they found out. The hypocrisy was not lost on you given what you had said but you hoped that they would understand you were doing this to save everyone. At the very least, you could live with them hating you if you knew that they survived this. "As I've said, you've been set up by your captors and it seems to me that regardless of what happens they will do as they please. So you have nothing to lose if you join us. While I cannot speak for my companions, I know they would not leave you to your fate if they knew that they could help you. At the very least one of them would stop at nothing to help you. All you have to do is simply renounce your ways. I'm sure they would even allow you to maintain your vow of pacifism." You pause to think for a moment. Just imaging what Tai Lung's reaction would be if Aleskander had asked to join your group. He would probably jump at the chance to help and no doubt the idea of allowing someone to return back to their nonviolent roots would fill him with peace. The thought of that seems to quell something in you and you feel your self and your words tempered.

"Aleskander listen to me." You say gently, honestly. "My words might sound hollow to you right now. The same promise made in a different nation? Of course it seems too good to be true but let me tell you my story. The story of a murderer, a killer. Unlike you I did not choose what I was born as. My path was made for me from the day of my birth and I reveled in it. To take away, to hurt, to lash out against the world that feared me and hated me. I thought these things were set in stone. Even as I held my younger sister, I swore I would burn everything to the ground to protect her and in doing so I was forcing onto her the same life I was forced into you. Until I met a man named Tai Lung. He showed me that there is always another path. Hope is never lost, it can be misplaced but it can always be found. I promise that he will do all he can to save you and your people." You give the bear a soft smile. "Because if he can have faith in a broken thing like me...If he can truly believe in someone like that then he will have no problem putting his faith in you. As long as you genuinely believe that you can become the good man you once were then he will believe in you. You are no longer alone." Aleskander looks at you, a small spark of hope burning in his once hopeless eyes and he nods at you. You return the gesture and speak firmly once more. "First we must get through this. It's clear this attack isn't a simple matter of just razing a city to the ground. There are plenty more cities that are much easily accessible in the mainland. Tell me, think carefully, was there anything different about this mission than your others? Different people in your group, anything in excess to what you normally bring?"

Aleskander furrows his brow and thinks for a moment. "Yes. I remember we have brought an excess of supplies. I was told that it was simply rations and arrows since we would be attempting to attack a city but it did seem odd that we would bring that much. However, I have not seen anyone attempt to open a few boxes despite it being time to eat." You nod.

"Good then it's best we start with seaching those-"

A series of loud explosions rock the mountaintop and interrupt you as the sounds of running and shouting begin You rise to your feet, drawing your sword in one fluid motion before a wave of unease and anxiety wash over you. The air feels as if something is sucked out of it and your senses all feel dulled. It's only the fact that you barely hear one of your spirits screaming at you to move as the tent around you is ripped up from the ground shows that something is very wrong. Instinctually, you swipe your katana to deflect a sword swipe to your face but your eyes a firmly locked on the city walls. 4 giant holes lined the walls the size of small houses. Bodies litter the ground as the enemy troops rush forward to enter the city while others remain and quickly surround you. The debris scattered around quickly tell you that the explosion happened from within the city, an inside job.

Rage swells within you and you see red as you deftly slice through a man's hand as he gets too close. You begin your slow walk towards Aleskander, intent upon burying your sword in the man's heart for this betrayal. Your hands move faster than the eye can see and soon your arms are slick with with blood as it soaks into your sleeves and drips on to the ground. So intent on murdering the man who you think betrayed your trust, the first stranger you decided to open up to besides your friends, that you barely notice the men you had cut down stand up once more. Once again it's only because you can barely hear the spirits bound to you that you manage to turn around just in time to deflect another attack only this time the parry wasn't so clean. Had you not moved so fast to defend yourself then the sword would have surely disemboweled you. Instead, your stomach sears in pain but you remain upright. The man who's arm your sliced off runs at you at full force as if unharmed and brings his weapon down upon you again. You can feel the shock run up your arm has his sword connects with yours with a frightening amount of force. Too much for someone who lost so much blood and far too much for someone who should have gone into shock from the pain.

You duck under another attack and in an arc cut him in two and the head off of another who was crawling to stab you despite missing both legs. Something inside you feels guilty for no keeping your promise to no longer kill but years of survival instincts kick in and burn it away to nothingness. Aleskander roars behind you and you pivot to cut another man down and turn to face a new opponent only to see him fighting for his life as well. The large bear brings both fists down upon one of his own crushing the man's spine before grabbing another and throwing him into the tree where your friends once taught their classes under. The impact shatters the truck and causes it to fall over with a loud crash. Soon the sounds of screaming and clashing metal begin to ring out from with in the Library followed by arrows flying through the holes in the wall. The battle for the Library had begun whether you liked it or not.

>What do you do?
>Try and fight your way to Alexsander. If this was his doing then he would be trying to kill you not fighting for his life. You can't let your anger cloud your mind.
>Fight your way into the city. Your family is in there. The rest of China can burn all around you but you can't lose those closest to you. Not again.
>Try and discern what is clouding your senses. If you can't rely on them then you will die long before you can do anything to help anyone. However, you won't be able to do much of anything else other than defend.
>Write in.

>>6062400
>Reign in your killing intent, focus on what's allowing your enemies to keep fighting through grievous wounds and find a way to disable them without taking their lives. You will break their bodies if you must.

>>6062400
>Fight the way to alesksander.
>With someone to cover our back, try and determine what is keeping them upright

>>6062288
And good job hoss, got the feeling for the rhythm

>>6062431
>>6062418
These two pair well so we can mix them. Writing.

https://youtu.be/xoJSAClwLc4?si=4PieBnsvuBFTuFgP

You throw yourself into a roll to avoid another attack and a stray arrow whistles past your ears before embedding itself into the eye of another Mongolian. The man's body goes limp and crumples to the ground. It does not seem like whatever is empowering these soldiers protects them from instant death. A spear attempts to do the same to you but you hack it away and slice off the tip. It takes a lot to reign in the urge to swing again and behead the man before you long enough that you feel something slice into your side. You howl in pain and grab your attacker's wrist, snapping it, and pulling the arm behind his back to dislocate both the shoulder and elbow. Your side burns as throw your opponent over your shoulder into another man. In the distance you can see the city guard pushing back through the holes in the wall. Despite the fact they it may have been the first battle of their lives, they fought well as cut down many of the invaders but something seemed off. At this distance, you can tell that the invaders had a complete disregard for their own well being. They swarm the guards and overwhelm those that they manage to split off from the main force. Other guards are taken down as they walk past invaders they thought were killed only to have them rise once more despite their wounds and stab them in the back. Soon the guard forces are pushed back into the city as they need to retreat lest they are surrounded by the enemy. A loud wet crunch sounds out nearby and you see the bear swing a comically undersized mace in one hand into the side of a sword wielding man destroying his armor and the arm holding the blade. Another two men charge to take advantage of the opening and stab Aleskander in the side. The bear's armor deflects most of the damage but you can see some blood well up between the chain links.

You charge forward, parrying another attack and sweeping one of the men near the bear off his feet. You push the definition of nonlethal to it's limits as you take the sheathe of your blade and use it as a lever to pull the fall men's leg apart and break tear the joints apart. Even if he was to survive this madness, he would more than likely never walk again. Another spearman approaches and you throw the broken man at him before driving the end your sheath into his nose. There's a satisfying crunch and blood sprays out giving you time to swipe your blade across his brow. Blood flows freely and coats his eyes blinding him and causing the man to swing wildly still in full disregard to his injuries. You jab at him three times in various pressure points to paralyze him...and nothing happens. Whatever Chi you infused with your strike seemed ineffective or more accurately nonexistent. Aleskander saves your life as he grabs the man before he can capitalize on the opening from your confusion. You sheath your weapon, duck under your savior's arm, and disable another attacker. "Aleskander!" You scream, nearly choking on your anger. "If in honor of my family I will trust you but know this, if you were behind any of this there will be no power in this world that will keep me from hunting you down!" You roar and grab a man by the shoulders then pull down sharply to pull the arms out of their sockets. You take a sharp breath and run your bloody hands through your hair and over your ears as you force yourself to be calm. "There is nothing I will not do for my family. I will break any vow, kill any man, burn any nation. Even if it means they will despise me so long as they can live to see another day I will do it. I promised they will help you and they would fight so that you would not suffer and make the same mistakes they have. So I offer you a choice, help me save my family and I will make sure you never have to kill again to protect your people or you get out of my way as I carve my way back into the city." You say in a cool almost cold tone. Aleskander hurls another opponent away and gives you a worried look.

"You are a frightening man. Though you hide your true self to the outside, I could feel that you carry a lot of pain...and a lot of evil. Even so, I can see there is a good man deep within you. One who cares about his family and could care about other people. You just don't know how. If you a truly willing to bear my people's burdens with me then I will help carry yours. I can see why they put their faith in you." He says before swinging both his arms and clearing a path for the two of you to get closer. "However, you will need to learn to truly face who you are if you wish to change for them." He adds. You let out a grunt.

"What is it with men who want to be good and talking too much? We can talk philosophy after my family is safe. For now I need you to buy me some time. We'll get nowhere if we can't find out how these people keep getting back up." You snap and almost as to make a point, another invader stands up. You vent a bit of anger by breaking his arm, leg, then finishing them off by breaking their back over your knee. "There has to be something! Anything you must have noticed that can give us an idea of what's going on!" You shout over the noise.

"I have never seen these men act like this." Aleskander says grabbing some rubble to use as a makeshift shield. "They act as if fighting gives them life itself. Even broken they continue but it does not seem to be true immortality. They have never disobeyed or acted without my orders before."

"They can still die. It's just as if they can feel no pain. Something has been off since this whole thing started. Things feels strange, muted somehow. This can only be the result of some kind of sorcery but to empower something of this size it would require...We need to move. NOW!" You scream and rip a spear free from someone's grip and breaking every finger in the process. You hold it sideways and use it to push forward. It all made sense now that you had cleared your mind some more. Your fury, the quietness of the spirits and your abilities not working.

"What do you mean? What is going on?" Aleskander asks as the two of you press onwards towards the city.

"People! Magic on this scale can only be fueled by people! I've seen this before many times! Only the most profane of rituals requires the energy of living things and those are on a smaller scale. For something to effect people sensitive to magic by proximity and encase a city this large...it's just the start! Whoever or whatever is behind this is planning something big and I fear we can't stop it. Not something of this size." You and Aleskander break through the fighting and rush into the city through one of the holes. The sounds of fighting can be heard all around you but there's no signs of anyone you know. Before you can begin to search for the others, more explosions ring out throughout the city with one being so close by that it nearly knocks you off your feet. Aleskander steadies you with a single hand.

"Where do we go? Where is your family?" He asks.

>What do you do?
>Go to the Guard's station. Its where the planned evacuation location is.
>Head to the library itself. Majority of people were being housed there for their safety during the initial siege.
>Head to the top of the stairs to the Exarch's room. The others might be there trying to protect him.
>Write in.

>>6062827
>What is it with men who want to be good and talking too.much.
YOU KNOW YOUR TYPE RENSHU!

>Head to the library proper.
The designated wvacuation point is a rule. As a general principle, Xin Lan doesnt follow rules. Look for the greatest amount of people

>>6062827
>Head to where Tai Lung is being kept. The others will make their way to him, without a doubt.

>>6063162
>>6063565
We got two excellent votes here. Which path will we take?

>>6063162
>YOU KNOW YOUR TYPE RENSHU!
Who knew tigerbun was into good boys. Or whatever the reverse is for the bad boy archetype. Or maybe he just wants to be carried by the big guy the same way he carries Xin?

>>6064086
I let the dice decide.

But if the second wins, I would like it noted that the others would NOT go to tai Lung. We are aware that they are proactive in defence, not falling back to the injured but taking action against attackers.

Renshu on the other hand, probably would want to secure TL before anything else. Because he's a bonded psychopath.

Rolled 1 (1d2)

>>6064279
Fucking dice.

Option 1 or 2.

>>6064280
The dice has spoken. We will head to the library to look for our family. Writing.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WkQRy6egb2Q

"There." You point to the large set of stairs that ran up the library. "That's the heart of the city. If people would be anywhere it would be there. We'll probably find the others there helping people evacuate." You don't wait for a response before you start running off in the libraries direction. All over the city you can hear screaming and shouting. The smell of fire and blood sting your nostrils as it mixes in with the smoke that billows from the flames. There was no time to take the long away around and avoid fighting. Anyone who got in your way would be removed or destroyed.

An axe swings out from an alley aimed right at your head but you slip under and slide by. You dig your claws into your assailant's leg tearing his footing out from under him and you continue onwards. There's a crunching sound soon after as Aleskander runs behind you and stomps on both the man's knees before kicking him back deep into the alley.

"Someone! Someone help!"

A woman runs right into you as she is being chased by another invader. You pivot, spinning her behind you, and you shove her out of the way as drive your palm into the man's face. Teeth are scattered everywhere as you destroy his jaw but you tighten your grip and hurl him head first through a window. "Get out of here! Now!" You shout and motion for her to get away.

"Oh thank you! Thank the Gods!" She shouts as she scrambles to her feet to run towards the nearest guard. The guard turns presumably to ask you to evacuate as well but you and the bear are long gone. Another pair of Mongolians attempt to you and you quickly drive both your fists in to each one's stomach. They double over instinctively as the wind is knocked out of them leaving them wide open for Aleskander to lift the two of them up and throw each through the roof of the nearest house. You mean up with another group who try to stop you but you're too hellbent on getting to the others to care. One, 3, not even an entire army would stop you from your goal and these would break like all the others. You duck under a wild swing and use their overextension to stomp on their knee. It gives a sickening pop as the leg suddenly bends at a wrong angle. As your opponent falls you hurl them into the other before drop kicking the two into a merchant stall. You draw your blade so quick that it appears to have never left it's sheathe and the roof collapses upon them as you cut it's support beams.

The two of you continue to fight your way into the center of the city and read one of the major market streets. Several guards are cleaning up a group of Mongolians and with a final cut the last of them falls down dead. "Renshu! Thank the Gods your alive!" One of the guards calls out and runs to you. "Sir, the city is gone! We have to evacuate." They say. "There's too many of them and refuse to fall unless we kill them outright. We need to head to HQ. At the very least we can buy people enough to time to escape."

"Is that your plan Dorje?! Just give up?! There's still people in the far western side of the city and we are still getting people coming in from the Library itself. We can't just give the city up! We have to stand our ground!" Another guard argues. Dorje turns to face them.

"The explosions have splinter us far too much! We won't ever be able to regroup fast enough to win back the city. We need to save who we can and hope that the Exarch and the Mayor have a plan to retake the city! If we move now we can at least save some people to even bring back here. Spreading ourselves thinner is just going to damn us all."

"Not all of us! Even if we can save just a few extra people then it'd be all worth it. I won't face my ancestors knowing I abandoned people!"

"Our ancestors will understand if we chose to save who we could than risk everyone!"

The two's argument grows louder and louder. It was clear that they were starting to snap under the strain of the chaos. "They both cannot have their way and splitting them off will only result in them both dying. It's their strength in numbers that is keeping them alive." Aleskander says. "Unless they cease their argument, their shouting will start to draw more attention to our location."


>What do you do?
>Continue on your way. The others are your top priority. If they don't make it...you're not sure what you'll do.
>Go with the guards to the station. You'll hold it as long as you can. Eventually, the others will have to go there to leave.
>Take the guards with you to the western side of the city. If there's people to be saved then the others will surely be there.
>Write in.

>>6064571
Again I am conflicted.
Tai Lung would take the western quadrent without thought. But Renshu cares for his family to the exclusion of all else.

>Move on
>Tell them to move towards the HQ. Once we gather our family to help us we will start to get people out. [Aware that this may be a lie.]

I'm deliberately not acting as TL.

>>6064689
Also worth considering is how much of TL has rubbed off on tigerbun?

>>6064571
>Take the guards with you to the western side of the city. If there's people to be saved then the others will surely be there.
Not because he inherently wants to, but because he wants to be able to look TL in the eye after this.

>>6064870
I fold with a wet blanket.

>>6065314
>Support this.

>>6065314
>>6065413
Even if it's done without wanting to sometimes that's all it takes to take the first steps towards changing. Maybe this will help push tigerbun to be better?

"Tch!" You huff and clench your fists. Something always had to get in the way of what you wanted. The others could be at the library waiting on you. You could all simply leave now but you knew that it wouldn't be that simple. The others would want to stick around and try to save more people. That's the whole reason why you were going to the library in the first place, to bank on that fact and find them. For all your bluster would you really be able to face them knowing that you'd turned your back on everything they had expected of you? It just wasn't fair. It was so much easier to be selfish and take what you wanted. Then you remember their smiles. They way they'd look at you with pride and happiness when you played nice with others when you helped them save people. You couldn't bare the though of taking that away from them. Of them being ashamed of you. Just imagining that brought about a certain pain you have never felt before. One you couldn't really describe.

You breathe in deeply and roll your neck and shoulders. "Enough!" You bark. "All of you get in formation. We head westward! Stick close and form a perimeter around whoever we find. The enemy may have some kind of advantage but we know this city better than they do. We can't afford a direct confrontation so we'll slip through the alleys. It'll serve as a choke point and help thin out anyone who attacks. We have no time for heroics so it's in then out as fast as we can. We get one sweep so make it the best damn rescue you can muster. Gods give us strength." The guards stand at attention out of habit and ready their weapons. "We'll make your ancestors proud but they'll need to wait a bit longer if they wish to see their descendants. No one else is dying today. Not if we can help it." You draw your blade and point it towards your new destination. "Now go! I'll cover your from the rooftops and scout ahead!"

"But what about...him?" One of the soldier's asks as the group finally seems to notice the polar bear.

"He's with us. He may have been our enemy but even he didn't condone this madness." You say. "Aleskander take the rear. Cover them and keep the enemy from flanking."

The large bear gives you a curious look. "You are trusting me?" He asks.

"...he would." You say quietly before turning your back. "We don't have time to argue. Are you going back on your word or will you help us?" The man nods.

"No one else dies today." He repeats.

---

You leap from rooftop to rooftop as your eyes scour the streets looking for anyone left alive. You hope, pray, that you might find the others here as well. Maybe you were wrong. Maybe they instead decided to find stragglers than help the bulk of the civilians. Your attention is drawn by the sounds of screaming. A father and his child are trapped in their home as flames tried to claw their way in and consume the building. The roof groans and threatens to collapse upon them as you can hear a beam crackle and snap into pieces bringing the weight down upon the rest of the weakened structure.

>What do you do?
>Break into the home and carry the two out.
>Get Aleskander to try and break the nearest wall down to control the collapse of the house in a safe direction.
>Get to the guard's location and have them rescue the family while you look for others.
>Write in.

>>6065960
>Break into the home and carry the two out.
Guards would take too long and the roof falling in is dangerious regardless.

>>6066061
Got a bit on my plate today so tomorrow. We'll be breaking in to rescue the family. Ren might be a hero just yet.

Thinking quickly, you throw your weight against the door to break it down. Already weakened from age and the fire, it easily breaks down under your attack. You follow the shouts for help to navigate through the smoke leaping over burning furniture and avoiding the fire as much as you could. Your ears lead you into the back of the home to a kitchen where you find the father and his son collapsed in a corner of the room. You rush over to the family who were struggling to breathe in the thick smoke. "You have to get up! This whole place is going to collapse!" You shout over the roar of fire. As if on queue a beam cracks and falls behind you blocking your path.

"We're trapped!" The father shouts flinching from the newly erupting flames and you can hear the house groan as the stress of the roof's weight was beginning to take it's toll on the remaining beams. Soon it would cause a domino effect where the structure of the building would start to topple bringing everything else down along with it. You search around, your eyes and nose burning from the heat and smoke, for something that could aid you.

"I'm going to get you out!" You say as you pull a thick tablecloth off the fallen table and pull it over all three of you. You lift the man and his child in your arms before rushing forward and hurling yourself through the nearby window. The glass shatters and you feel it tug and tear at the tablecloth. A few shards manage to fully get through and slice into your back but mercifully you don't think any manage to embed themselves nor cut deep. Once all three of you stop rolling you tear the table cloth off and let the family breathe just in time to see the roof cave in. "You need to stand up. The guard is nearby and it's not safe here." You say pulling the Father to his feet. "Take your son and go down that alley. You'll find them there and they'll keep you safe. Now go!" Running on what you assume is pure adrenaline, the father grabs his son and runs towards the alley. You leap onto another rooftop and follow them for a bit to make sure they arrive safely before leaping off into an alleyway to continue your search.

>What do you do?
>Do what you do best. Patrol around the guard squad and hunt down any threat that might approach them. The guards can handle the search and rescue. You probably won't find as many people but those you do find and send to the squad will be safer.
>Head deeper into this side of the city. You'll lose contact with the guards until you regroup but you might be able to find more people this way.
>Use your height advantage to scout out and direct the guards. Staying close together would provide safety in numbers for you and the civilians but it will be slower.
>Write in.

>>6069088
Damned spirit dampening.

>Head deeper into the city.
Most bodies saved, best option for us

>>6069724
We're heading off on our own. Writing.

"I'm going on ahead to look for others! Search the area and see if there's anyone left! Don't break formation!" You shout down at the group of guardsmen. Alone you could travel faster and cover a wider area. The guard could keep the rear secure to serve as a fallback point. You dash into the deepest parts of the western section ears perked for sounds of trouble. Everything is too frantic to tell how long you spend out there. It could have been a half hour, an hour, or it could have been just a few minutes. One time you're cutting through barrels to put out some flames, another you leap behind a group of invaders to strike them down before they could get to some fleeing citizens. You can start to feel the wear upon your frame as you wounds seem to open more and you acquire new ones. Lifting a fallen beam and turning to hurl it at an attacker so hard that their ribcage broke didn't help matters either. However, you could not simply stop and rest as it always felt like whenever you finished helping someone there was almost always another group of people that needed help close by. It just seemed like fate had chosen this side of the city to fill with the most people.

Exhaustion and a growing sense of despair from not seeing sight of your loved ones causes you to be sloppy and when an invader leaps from the shadows to attack you as you were trying to remove some rubble off an injured woman your finely honed instincts kick in before you can reign them in. It was only a split second but the man who attacks you stands still for a moment a look with a wild look in his eyes before his head slides cleanly off the shoulders. You stand stock still, like a child who was caught doing something wrong, before you mind catches up to what had occurred and three more men approach you. Anger begins to rise within you once more and you grip your blade properly. You were done. These men had chosen their path and you knew no amount of talking would convince them otherwise. Now was not the time to hold back anymore. Maybe you couldn't do this. Maybe you weren't meant to be a good person. You tried, you really did. But the blood in your fur and soaking your sleeves proved that you couldn't change and the body on the ground simply proved it.

You were a murderer, a killer, and you only wish Tai Lung had simply left you to your punishment in the afterlife rather than take that deal. If killing was the only thing you were worth for then you hope that you using it to save these people would be enough to argue for Tai Lung's release from that infernal deal. Taking lives to save so, so many more.

>What do you do?
>Move in to engage. Let go of your inhibitions and cut down everyone who gets in the way of your mission.
>Put your sword away. You're injured and tired but if you die here at least you want Tai Lung to think you died trying to follow his example as much of a lie that was.
>Simply stand there and try to hold on until the guards came by. No one would pass you and harm those behind you. Not as long as you live and breathe.
>Write in.

>>6070916
>Move in to engage. Let go of your inhibitions and cut down everyone who gets in the way of your mission.

>>6070916
>Simply stand there and try to hold on until the guards came by. No one would pass you and harm those behind you. Not as long as you live and breathe.
Callback to Renshu's preferred fighting style. It...should help us get our breath back, at least. Invite them to their own destruction, I say.

>>6070969
>Support.
>Tai Lung would give them a speech, Compel them to see reason. I am not Tai lung. "You have but one choice! FLEE OR BREAK!"

it is for the benefit of those behind us, rather than those ahead.