Xia Ren
New Member
[China]
Posts: 39
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Post by Xia Ren on Nov 15, 2006 22:30:20 GMT -5
Dawn came by quickly and Ren was anxious to head out - needing an adventure. However, he knew it would bring anxiety when he found himself trapped in a place where he had little control to manipulate. Yet it was comforting to know anything could happen, for better or for worse - surprises are what he lived for, tasted. His horse was prepared and packed tight with various weapons, food and other travel necessities. He even threw in glamorous objects just incase he had to bribe someone for their silence (and of course kill them in the end).
He made sure to walk on the left or right path of the halls, knowing the center was saved for someone of high regards. Of course, there really was no one to fit that title - an Emperor so to speak - so, he walked in the center and then back to the left and then back to the right. Making a zigzag pattern was for his own amusement and risk. Anyone to catch him could have him beheaded. Yet, there was no Emperor around... and he saw no point in following orders.
Catching a flash of colors from the corner of his eye he stuck to the left wall. When he got closer he made out a smaller figure. The person had their head rested against the wall, tilted back and looking short of breath. It seemed this person was clinging onto a slight thread, waiting to fade away. Ren quickly made the connection of the gloomy figure with: Yu Fai. He hadn't seen the boy since the previous night. What would the kid say if he walked in the center again? Fai didn't seem the type to tattle on him. But one couldn't be too sure.
Once he was close enough to the boy he placed his left hand on the kid's shoulder, forcefully shifting his form to face forward. "I don't know why you stay here, you're truly alone. No friends .. no family," his voice sounded sympathetic as he stared into the gold of the kid's irises. "If you stay here, you'll die alone. We all know you're dying. Mm, perhaps you should dismiss yourself for a vacation - visit your family - come back when Kamlong gets here.."
Ren could tell Fai was tense and carefully did he lift his thumb to the kid's bottom lip, gracing it slightly in a trace. "If nobody wants you, then I'll have you."
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Yu Fai
New Member
[China]
Posts: 28
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Post by Yu Fai on Nov 15, 2006 22:45:00 GMT -5
Fai had been startled by Ren's sudden movement and force. It was too quick, making him feel ill and nauseated. His attention span drifted slowly as the older man spoke to him and his eyes glanced up in subtle worry. For someone of his type he was loyal to every degree but the sickness in his throat made him want to simply do what others expected and that was to curl up and die quietly. To give up on everything. He was quite sure Ren was going to give a speech on how he should simply fade from the picture.
When the other man suggested a vacation his brows knitted together and he shook his head in a no-way. It wasn't because he was objecting to the idea, it's because Ren sounded like he cared. Hesitantly he lifted his left hand to slowly grasp onto the other's sleeve, curling the fabric into his palm. "It hurts to move right now," Fai explained, his own support slowly giving out on him. The reason why he had been rested against the wall was because he went the entire night without much sleep, suffocating on his own blood that pooled in his lungs. He was somewhat thankful Ren was there to lean on, even if he wished it someone else.
With his other hand be brushed the thumb from his lip and gave out a slight sigh. "I don't know if you're really caring or not but I'll take your advice out of sorrow and perhaps spite. I'll leave, and when Kamlong returns.. so will I." Fai's head ducked down, surprised to find the other male smelt of peppermint.
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Xia Ren
New Member
[China]
Posts: 39
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Post by Xia Ren on Nov 15, 2006 22:45:04 GMT -5
Feeling Fai's weight against his shoulder he slowly pushed the boy back with finger to the kid's forehead. It wasn't because he was doing this for Fai or out of guilt but because he had once been in this dying creature's position. He hated himself for that, the way he intervened any compassion. "I see, the last person to really care gets taken from you - and so your life is stolen. There is doubt that your illness is killing you, rather, you are your own cause."
Ren bit his tongue at his own advice and he slowly moved his arms to pick the kid up in a slight cradle. Fai was light, weak - even for being rumored of a prodigy in undefeated battle. Now he really doubted anything was true by mouth. Expecting a response he waited for Fai to say something, when nothing came - Ren glanced down. The kid had slipped into unconsciousness. Instead of waking Fai from what could be death, he made his way towards Liuchao's room.
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Sze Liuchao
Junior Member
Evil is sexy, just ask Ren
Posts: 59
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Post by Sze Liuchao on Nov 15, 2006 23:16:37 GMT -5
Liuchao started at the knock on the door. Not because it was unexpected, but because he had been lost in thought. In his nightmares he was haunted by all the things that could go wrong, causing him to lose both Ren and his ambition--the throne. He put himself together quickly, knowing that at such an earlier hour it was almost certainly Ren who had come to call.
Cross the room to the door he paused, brushing a few stray strands of hair from his face. He opened the door, about to speak when he saw the unconscious Fai. Surprised would have been a definite understatement, and his expression showed it. Only momentarily, though, as he quickly mastered himself and stepped out of the way to admit Ren and his charge.
"What happened . . . ?" Even though he could make a good guess at the answer himself.
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Xia Ren
New Member
[China]
Posts: 39
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Post by Xia Ren on Nov 15, 2006 23:21:54 GMT -5
Ren gave Liuchao a light smile when he opened the door and gladly stepped in. His eyes did the simple routine: checking the ceiling and then the ground. It amused him to do this every time and Fai's weight was nothing to complain about. Instead of sitting in the chair like he had done last night he set Fai down in it, adjusting the kid's limbs to what he imagined to be comfortable. "I don't know, he just passed out on me," he answered, turning to face Liuchao.
"In his vulnerable state anything could happen, you know," Ren suggested. Secretly he had wanted the farewell to be alone but this wasn't too problematic. "I can just put him in my room to regain consciousness?"
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Sze Liuchao
Junior Member
Evil is sexy, just ask Ren
Posts: 59
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Post by Sze Liuchao on Nov 15, 2006 23:53:40 GMT -5
Liuchao nodded, "That would probably be for the best." He frowned, "I told him to go see a healer the night before last. It appears the poor lad doesn't listen very well--whether it be to me or to the healer."
He sighed, crossing his arms and shaking his head, "This is unfortunate. Poor boy." He looked at Ren, "It's best to take him quickly, then you can return and we can make arrangements for your departure. I'll see to it that the boy is taken care of when he awakes."
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Xia Ren
New Member
[China]
Posts: 39
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Post by Xia Ren on Nov 16, 2006 0:03:49 GMT -5
"To me, he looks like he's died at least several times," he said, gaze shifting to Fai. The flesh was unnatural and the figure was skeletal all of a sudden. It wasn't like any illness that was common through the grounds; it reminded him of Kamying. Approaching the small figure again he weaved his finger's into the kid's collar and hoisted him up over his left arm. Ren walked towards the door again, listening to the slight sound of Fai's feet dragging.
When he passed by Liuchao, his lips parted. "Once he wakes up, will you do me a favor? Send him back to his family," it was an awkward request and he knew well enough Fai would never recover unless given a special antidote. Something he didn't have - only Liuchao possessed. Ren tried to explain, "If he has to die. So be it, but not alone.." the words were heavy as he faked a smile, exiting.
It only took about ten minutes to go to his room, tuck Fai securely in his bed, and come back. He was thankful the infection the kid had wasn't contagious.
Liuchao's door was still open so he maneuvered forward to rest his hand at the frame, allowing his weight to lean against it. "You look a little shaken today.." he mentioned, announcing his presence. Ren had been around the man long enough to detect the emotional hype or changes. In other words, he could see right through the mask.
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Sze Liuchao
Junior Member
Evil is sexy, just ask Ren
Posts: 59
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Post by Sze Liuchao on Nov 16, 2006 0:16:07 GMT -5
". . . I'll think about it," Liuchao said to the request, knowing he would weigh the pros and cons before accepting or rejecting it. He watched Ren leave, feeling the heavy weight of his words despite the man's attempt at a smile.
"How curious," he muttered to himself, pushing it aside as a puzzle to ponder at another time. For now his priority was ironing the plans Ren had made.
He wasn't watching the door when Ren returned, but looked up at the sound of his voice. He frowned at the question, a bit uneasy, despite his trust, at the knowledge that Ren could read him so easily. He paced slowly, pondering what to say.
He knew the simple response of "nothing," would not be enough to dismiss Ren's inquiry. The man would never believe it. He sighed. "I've just been having dreams."
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Xia Ren
New Member
[China]
Posts: 39
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Post by Xia Ren on Nov 16, 2006 0:22:31 GMT -5
Ren's eyes followed the pacing, waiting for a response. He knew Liuchao always thought before answering precisely the way he wanted, but with him he always caved in and gave a honest answer. Pushing his weight off from the frame of the door, he gracefully tagged after the pacing. He started to walk with Liuchao curiously and listened to the inquiry of dreams.
"Dreams.. or do you mean, nightmares? It's unlikely for anyone to be disturbed because of a dream," he tried to piece out. It really didn't matter what it was but his left arm was held out. This was to stop the other's movements and once he was close enough to Liuchao he placed the arm around his shoulder. "Ah, it is foretold dreams are symbolic. Do explain.."
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Sze Liuchao
Junior Member
Evil is sexy, just ask Ren
Posts: 59
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Post by Sze Liuchao on Nov 17, 2006 16:58:10 GMT -5
"Nightmares," he conceded. "But I don't think they're of very much importance." He glanced at Ren, wondering if the man would push further or let it be.
He decided to offer a little more to satisfy him, "It's probably just anxiety, things are heading quickly to a head now. One misstep could cost us everything at this point." Noticing the unchanged resolution in Ren's face he sighed to himself and attempted to change the subject, somehow sensing he would likely fail. "Explain your plans to me as they stand now, I'd like to double check them for errors. Neither of us need to be taking unnecessary risks at this stage."
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Xia Ren
New Member
[China]
Posts: 39
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Post by Xia Ren on Nov 17, 2006 17:28:36 GMT -5
The expression on his face told Liuchao he was inquisitive about the dream but was easily swayed to explain his plans. It wasn't his place to upset the older man and he wasn't going to start right before his departure. "As you wish," Ren mumbled as he removed his arm from the other's shoulder. Taking a light step forward he pointed his right index finger out at an imaginary map ahead of himself. "I'll take the main route to the camp and pass through one of the towns. There should be no reason for a messenger to go around or hidden - this would only bring up questions."
His gaze shifted to see if Liuchao gave any disapproving gestures, seeing nothing he continued on. "Once I get there, with the scroll containing the Emperor's death, I'll report that I need to speak with General Kamlong. No doubt would someone sent by the Imperial court pass me by. Once I am presented to the General I'll request to be alone, gain his trust and his security. I'll report a different circumstance, regarding another issue - not the Emperor's death.."
That wasn't all, of course. Perhaps he liked talking since he seemed to be enjoying himself. "I already know their defense by the reports they sent in. Ah, and I apologize for digging through your papers to get further information," the interval was sweet and he flashed a kind smile - asking for forgiveness. "There is no point in giving you an exact situation when Kamlong's death should commence, being I'll only pick the safest opportunity to do so."
"However," the finger that pointed to the invisible map was now faced down, "If I am caught nothing will be traced back to you. If I am exposed they'll dig through my luggage and pick out false scrolls made by the Empress. The treason will be under her name and they'll have no proof but to behead her.." Ren's voice faded momentarily. He knew he didn't ask Liuchao's permission to tarnish the Empress' name but he had no other choice to fit her in. "Everyone will suspect she wanted Kamlong out of the picture to prolong her ruling and title of Grand Empress," now his voice had gone bitter, almost guilted by all the innocence he would harm.
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Sze Liuchao
Junior Member
Evil is sexy, just ask Ren
Posts: 59
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Post by Sze Liuchao on Nov 19, 2006 22:42:18 GMT -5
As always, Liuchao found himself grateful for the deep streak of loyalty which ran through Ren. Despite the fact that Ren was undoubtedly his closest confidant he did not feel like sharing the nature of his dreams. Those which weren't deeply personal were morally damaging and he'd rather keep his doubts to himself. It might be an unnecessary pretense, but he felt it best to remain confidant in front of everyone, he would hide whatever cracks appeared no matter what.
Besides, the dreams really were just nonsense, after all. And there was no reason to give any credence whatsoever to them.
He frowned slightly, "In the future, I shall hope that you will ask before you dig around for information." He wondered what other things Ren had managed to pick up while digging around. He would have to find out at a later date.
He sighed, "The plans sound good, Ren. Even your back up to protect me . . . but, just don't get caught." He paused, "Take your time to make sure your presence is noted in the inn, in case eye-witness should be needed at a later date. I guess I don't have to warn you to watch what you let slip there, though?" It was a pointless question, he fully trusted Ren's discretion.
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Xia Ren
New Member
[China]
Posts: 39
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Post by Xia Ren on Nov 19, 2006 23:35:04 GMT -5
"No, you don't have to warn me but the reminder helps," he replied, letting his eyes stare at Liuchao's expression. It disheartened him to see even the slightest frown and disappointment from the other man but he had not done it on selfish terms. Ren didn't know why Liuchao seemed to distance himself from him when he proved his loyalty over and over. There really was no way to be perfect, he figured.
Now that he thought of it, he would be leaving Liuchao on his own. Meaning Ren could no longer watch over the male in case people tried to get too close. "You'll be ok alone, correct?" he asked. There was no reason to doubt the clever man but he needed to hear the words, to gain some comfort. With light steps he made his way towards Liuchao, his eyes looking off behind him. Once close enough he reached his right hand down to slowly take Liuchao's wrist. Carefully, he placed his left arm around the other's back side - pulling him into a light hug.
"There will be things greatly missed here," he sounded upset for some reason.
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Sze Liuchao
Junior Member
Evil is sexy, just ask Ren
Posts: 59
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Post by Sze Liuchao on Nov 19, 2006 23:41:38 GMT -5
Liuchao smiled gently, despite himself. Closing his eyes and allowing himself to let go, only for a moment, while in Ren's arms. He inhaled the man's scent deeply, knowing it would be months before he would smell it again.
"I'll be okay, Ren," somehow he sensed the man needed the reassurance.
He pulled back from the hug, but stroked Ren's face to soothe away any hurt feelings. He stood on tiptoe to press a gentle kiss to Ren's forehead.
"Be well, my friend . . . ."
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Xia Ren
New Member
[China]
Posts: 39
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Post by Xia Ren on Nov 19, 2006 23:50:35 GMT -5
His eyes closed at the kiss and felt better at the hand against his face. When Liuchao pulled away his eyes glanced open again, the grip around Liuchao's wrist tightening slightly. "I love you, Liuchao," Ren said timidly before releasing the older man to step back with a slight bow. He was sure it was time to leave before everyone else woke up to question him. Afraid of the response he rose back to a stand. "Farewell," breathing out the last word quickly he turned to head for the door. Leaving his daily routine made him feel slightly nauseated.
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