Imperial Intrigues, Base thread
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Human Small Groups =&gt; Topic started by: NekoBoy89 on 20-02-2010, 18:49:41</h2>
		<dl id="posts">
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NekoBoy89</strong> on <strong>20-02-2010, 18:49:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				I have to tell you all that my gram and spelling might not be the best, so I hope you can live with it and still understand the basic idea. The member of the thread is free to make thread that have a connection to this one, just make sure you send me the link with a pm and that you name the thread Imperial Intrigues and then whatever name you want it to have after. <br><br>Example: Imperial Intrigues, The Palace garden<br><br><br>It had been five years since the former emperor passed away and left the kingdom in chaos, they had enemies everywhere and the people was suffering. Hunger and Strife was seen and heard of in all parts of the kingdom, even talk about dark magic could be rumored about from a secret gathering in the south. But with the tyrants death things changed for the better, his only son Tai Shun ascended to the throne and became the new emperor. The first things the young man did was to make sure peace came to the lands by inviting all the leaders from the other kingdoms to his palace for negotiations. After this it was a glorious victory and the war ended, the lands could once again be at peace and Tai released all prisoners from the war to there families. He was not going to be a tyrant that ruled thought fear and hate, but one ruling with strict but gentle hand. After this he moved the focus to his own people and used much gold from the royal vault in order to regain stability among his people, lowering the rathes of death by a large number.&nbsp; <br><br>Something the new emperor had learned from the fathers mistake was that a people in pain is a bad people, his father became so paranoid in the end that he close to never even left his chambers. Put trust in the people and treat them as they should be treated, a ruler is never anything without his subjects. Tai proved that he cared much for the wellbeing of the kingdom, but that did not go so far as that he banished slavery from the land. He was powerful, but not even he could remove that as it was a foundation to the land. But something he could forbid was to enslave people inside of his kingdom, then how people got there slaves otherwise was not his business. <br><br><strong>The festival</strong><br>Now it is as said five years ago since the dark times ended and the land came into a new era, on this very day is a massive festival thrown thought the kingdom and a feast unlike anything is being held at the palace itself. But only a selected few gets to have dinner with the emperor himself this evening, those with royal blood or the once he himself selected for the festival. <br><br><strong>The Throne chamber</strong><br>The parties and royal dinners is being held inside of the throne chamber, along with important meetings and affairs. It is a large chamber with impressive decorations, flowers, statues and paintings. At the far ends stands a impressive throne surrounded by soft pillows, the throne is for the emperor and the pillows for his slaves and pets. During formal dinners a large table is going from the throne thought the entire room to give a place to eat for important guests, while during more casual parties people regularly just eat where they feel like eating. To make it easier smaller tabled can be gathered from other rooms for guests to put the plates on. Only a selected few are invited to this part of the palace during events, but there can be many more guests outside in the larger halls and Tai always takes a walk to greet his guests and wish them a good evening and a great party. For his own amusement he can at times throw a small contest among the lesser guests to get seats to dine with him and his family. The most hilarious thing was when a young farmer became the winner, not that Tai minded it was after all a part of the deal and he was not one to go back on his words.<br><br><strong>Royal chambers</strong><br>Connected with a corridor from the throne chamber is the royal chamber, this is where Tai sleeps and makes himself ready for everything an emperor have to do. It is a large circular chamber with large door going out to a large balcony with the wive of the entire kingdom. The furniture is a large king sized bed, a door going into a wardrobe with all kinds of outfits for both party and business. Piles of pillows can be seen around the room since the emperor sometimes have a habit to not get to the bed before the action starts, just something he did to be on the safe side to avoid getting bruises.&nbsp; A larger doorway leads into the bathroom where the emperor has his royal bathtube, it is a large contruction made out of white marble lowered down into the floor. Soft towels is hanging from one of the walls and right next to them jars with scented oils and parfumes to give a fresh smell to the water. It takes time to fill this tube so Tai always starts to make it ready a few hours before he actually is going to take the bath. <br><br><strong>The Room of the Minister</strong><br><em>Doomsday will get the honor to pick his own room. ^_^</em><br><br><strong>The Guest quarters</strong><br>Important guests and visitors at the palace is of course more then welcome to stay at the palace during there time there, it have a large amount of different questrooms. Everything from smaller once to large luxurious one with there own bathrooms. The more important you are the better is your quarters for the evenings. No one ever said the emperor was not a good host. <br><br><em>Other places will and shall be added as we play along, but for now we have these once to be in. Also going to try and make it separate threads to make it less complicated</em><br><br><strong>The game begins!</strong><br><br>It had been taking all day for the servants to make things ready for the evenings feast, the celebration to the end of the dark times was at hand and the&nbsp; joy of many could be sensed in the air as the chef prepared the meals and the decorators changed the flower in the different vases. But now finally things was going to come to fruition and the guests had arrived from all parts of the kingdom. Music was going to be played until late at night and wine of the best kind was being served to all guests. It was not much different in the more common chambers compaired to the royal once, apart from the fact that his royal highness, emperor Tai Shun was having his dinner in the royal halls. <br><br>The ruler was without a doubt a very impressive man and he had the looks of his father, the only thing he said that he got from the old man that was not trouble. With the dark hair and the piercing eyes he was a real emperor thought and thought. No one could deny that he was not of royal blood, no one would even dare to suggest such a thing. But despite all this the man was dressed in a fairly simple outfit in a calm blue color, he was among family so he did not feel the need to dress like he was going out to show himself in public. He sat casually with one leg over the armrest of the throne and a golden goblet with wine standing on a small table right next to the throne, along with a bowl with random fruit and a plate with meat. There was no large table and just smaller once scattered around the chamber for the guests to use as they saw fit. <br><br>It was a time to relax and he had ever arranged for a firework to be fired at midnight from the lake next to the castle, that was a surprise and just a few knew about it. That being himself and the man he gave the mission, not even his most trusted friends knew about it yet. The very thought on the face of everyone when they saw it made Tai smile even now. But that would have to wait, he glanced around the room and back towards the door going to his royal chambers, he was waiting for Ethan to come. The boy did not seem to be ready yet, but Tai was a man that could wait, he just longed to feel the young mans head against his knees and hear his voice. A true pleasure for the ear, maybe he would ask the boy to sing for them this evening? He would not deny Tai the pleasure to hear his voice in song, not a chance and the emperor knew this. <br><br><strong>"Now where is that little boy, I bet he is doing this to tease me. Well I better teach him a small lesson about coming on time when it is time for bed"</strong> he purred out softly and grasped the goblet, the way he said the words was more playful then angry. He could not be angry and Ethan...unless the boy really did something to anger him. Well not that he did not have other things to pass the time with in this chamber, there was guests he had to be social with. Important guests that had to get his devoted attention. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nadir</strong> on <strong>20-02-2010, 20:42:13</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/0/04/FengBao.jpg)</div><br>Feng Bao moved through the gathering with casual ease, not letting any hinder him for to long, brushing off attempts of conversation with soft words and a polite smile. His gaze kept flicking to the throne, and his friend who sprawled in the seat. He did pick up a goblet as he passed a small table, not drinking from it but holding it gracefully as he moved. He was dressed in red shirt and pants with a black overcoat with strands of gold thread at the cuffs and collar, simplistic and casual as befitted the setting but a clear display of wealth and pride. His long, black hair was caught back in a braid tied with a ribbon and three golden bells. His eyelids he had smudged with kohl - an old habit he had taken to, to stir his mother's ire without breaking social rule. Despite the feminine touch, his gait and frame were totally masculine, his body lean muscled from archery and horse riding. He was a good lucking man, but he had a reputation for being true to his wife - a woman he saw briefly every year when he returned to his lands to the west.&nbsp; <br><br>He was not, by far, the most well landed at court. Nor the richest. The greatest asset he had was the small mine that gave him gold and sapphires. If he hadn't had such a talented tongue or had the luck to have been born when he had been his presence at court would have been minimal, and his power non-existent. However, he had been the childhood friend of the Emperor, judged of an age to be compliant to the order of befriending the young boy, high-born to not instil him with any common ideas but not of influential stock, so unlikely to use the friendship for negative reasons. For all their friendship was artificial to start with, Feng felt it had become true. To Feng, Tai was one of his only true friends. Feng liked it so, not wanting to be close to any other noble in the same way he was close to Tai.<br><br>A few minutes after entering the Throne Room, he came in front of the young Emperor. He bowed to Tai and straightened with a smile. "It looks like you won our bet. Five years on the throne and you haven't broken your tailbone sitting on that old thing. Can you recall what the prize would be, or will you settle for a duck-down cushion?" 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NekoBoy89</strong> on <strong>20-02-2010, 21:04:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Tai had noticed the friend the moment he entered the room, but he was not going to leave the comfort of the throne to walk over to him. After all he was the emperor so if Feng wanted to have a little word with him he would have to come to the throne. The emperor slowly moved the goblet to his lips and drank from it as he examined the guests in the chamber. His eyes turned to the childhood friend when he came over and began to talk, a small grin spread over Tai's face and he did not reply right away. He examined the other mans face, his hair, eyes and clothes. He raised one slender eyebrow when he saw the kohl around the eyelids, it was kind of interesting. Tai had always found his old friend to be very hot, it was not all to common that he had been thinking about Feng in more then one dirty way over the years. But so far he had not been given a reason to act on those feeling, after all Feng was still a very close friend. <br><br><strong>"Well my old friend it will take much more then an ancient relic to break anything on me"</strong> he commented and patted the armrest on the throne a few times before he continued to talk. <strong>"Well as I recall if you won I was going to let you borrow Ethan for a night, but I do not remember entirely what your part of the deal was"</strong> he smirked softly and took another sip from the deeply red wine in the goblet. He seemed to be in deep thought on the offer, then he shook his head a little. <strong>"I need no such thing Bao, I have all the pillows I need if I ever would grow tired of this throne"</strong> he gestured a little towards all the pillows around him. <strong>"So we will have to think of something else you can give me for a price."</strong> Tai laughed and shifted a little on the throne, he also returned the goblet to the small table next to him. <strong>"Give it some thought, I am sure you will come up with something interesting"</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MzNurse</strong> on <strong>20-02-2010, 21:12:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/8/86/Ethan.jpg)<br><br>Ethan hated dressing up. Dressing up meant uncomfortable clothes and strange people staring at him. Mater Tai would be there, though, and that made everything worth it. He smirked to himself as he dressed, thinking back. <br><br>When he'd first come here he was eight years old, or something close to it. He didn't really know how old he was, or when his birthday was, or his name for that matter. He vaguely remembered being called John once by a pretty blonde woman. He remembered being called Scab on the pirate ship more clearly, and he'd gone through at least threre other names before the Missionary named him Ethan. He'd liked the Missionary, who treated him with stern kindness and didn't beat him, but the unruly pagans he was trying to teach rebelled, killing the Missionary and his wife, taking the children as captive. <br><br>It was from this group that the previous ruler, Master Tai's father, bought him. Ethan knew nothing about the country, the customs, or the language, and the other slaves and servants his age took advantage of that fact, bullying and beating him every chance they got. They made sure they left left no marks or bruises in any visible place. The fact that he had been bought specifically for Master Tai as a birthday gift made things worse. Master Tai hadn't even seemed thrilled at the time, so Ethan said nothing about his treatment until, after two weeks of solid torture later, Ethan was too beaten to even walk across the room properly.<br><br>Master Tai had been mad at Ethan, at first, thinking he was shirking his duties, until he'd seen the extent of Ethan's injuries. He'd personally cared for him, bringing down punishments on anyone he'd discovered that had caused hurt to Ethan. Ethan had loved him ever since. He wasn't exactly sure when it was he'd fallen <em>in love</em> with him, but that had happened somewhere along the line, and on Master Tai's last birthday, Ethan had given him the gift of his virginity. <br><br>It was no secret that Ethan was the favored pet, and that, if they wanted anything, they needed to go through Ethan to get to Tai. They also had to admit that Ethan never took advantage of his position, that he was fair to everyone. On the flip side of the coin, if you weere in trouble, a word from Ethan to Tai could mean the difference between lighter or a heavier punishment. <br><br>He sighed, finally finished with dressing, and clipped on the collar he wore for such occasions. He smiled as he set the collar in place. He belonged to Master Tai, and only Master Tai, and he wore his collar with pride. The smile lingered on his lips as he left the room and entered the throne chamber, stopping to the side of the throne and of his Master. He would not interrupt the conversation between Tai and Feng, would wait patiently for the visitor to move before Ethan could take his place, his pillow being on the floor between the Master's legs.<br><br>When Master Tai finally looked in his direction, Ethan gave a small nod, even though his head was appropriately bowed. "Does the outfit please my Master?" he asked, his soft voice still holding the lilting accent even after all these years.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NekoBoy89</strong> on <strong>20-02-2010, 21:36:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Tai glanced a little towards the door to his chambers when Ethan walked out, the younger boy was sure a real beauty unlike anything he had seen before. His blond hair was something that always made the emperor shiver in delight, along with those perfectly blue eyes he was a jewel. Tai's focus was still towards the friend, but he was fully aware that the pet made his way towards them. His eyes was turned towards Feng, but he still could notice when Ethan stopped right next to his throne. One of his hands casually was moving from the armrest until he came to the boys ass and he squeezed one of the cheeks a little as a faint grin crossed his visage. <br><br>He did glance to the boy after a few seconds and listened to the words, then he smiled and examined the clothes closer. <strong>"Mmmm...your emperor is very pleased"</strong> he said with a low, teasing voice. <strong>"But for letting me wait for such a long time it was not worth it"</strong> he added and the smile changed to a small grin. <strong>"Who is going to sit between my legs and be cute when I don't have you around? We where actually just talking about you, do you recall that even five years ago when Feng said I would break my tailbone on this chair? I promised him to get to borrow you as a reward, but what did he offer me?"</strong> he reached out with his hand and placed it on the servants chin, then moving it over his cheek. He shaped with the lips the word...kiss me, but he did not say it loud. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nadir</strong> on <strong>20-02-2010, 21:41:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/0/04/FengBao.jpg)</div><br>Feng's eyes danced merrily as he replied, "Ah, but seeing how well you weathered fresh, young things I was <em>sure </em>it would take something a little less... yielding to get to you." The double meaning was subtle, the only thing about Feng that suggested it was deliberate was the amused narrowing of his dark eyes. "No matter. Ah, what could a simple mortal possible have to offer the all powerful Emperor of the world..." He sighed with playful drama. "If only we were still children, then you would be happy with a paper lantern filled with fireflies. You do enjoy making my life so unbearably <em>difficult</em>." <br><br>His eyes moved away and down, his eyebrows drawing together to make a pinscratch of a frown appear between them. Then his mouth curved upwards in an amused smirk and his gaze snapped back to his friend. "Here's a thought. You can have my first born. Oh - better yet, my wife. I hear you're looking for one." He laughed and lifted his goblet, taking a slow sip and not locking away from Tai. He shot the slave a glance as the boy interrupted, but it was without true aggression but an odd mix of annoyance, resolution and fondness, use to Ethan's presence along side Tai. <br><br>&nbsp;
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MzNurse</strong> on <strong>20-02-2010, 22:20:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/8/86/Ethan.jpg)<br><br>Ethan blushed prettily when Tai grabbed his ass, and the smile reformed on his lips. He shivered a bit as Tai's hand slid across his jaw, and turned his head to kiss the palm of his hand. "Yes, my Master. I remember the deal. Were you to lose, I would belong to Master Feng for the night. If you were to win, Master Feng was to be yours for the night." <br><br>Ethan's voice was soft and steady, lilting with his accent, and his eyes looked at Tai with loving adoration. There was nothing in this world that Ethan would refuse Tai. If Tai demanded his life, he would gladly give it.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NekoBoy89</strong> on <strong>20-02-2010, 22:35:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				&nbsp;Tai's lips tugged a little in a slightly amused manner when the friend was talking, very few people could speak to him in that way and also get away with it. But the young emperor was in a very good mood now so he had a feeling anyone could call him anything and he would not care at all. <strong>"Watch your tongue there, or someone might want to do something about it"</strong> these words could mean many different things. <br><br>With Tai it was most likely not what it sounded like, it never was that way with him. A laugh emerged from his throat at the last few lines, he then sighed. <strong>"Well I am sure you will find something you can give me that I do not have already"</strong> he whispered softly. <strong>"ah the good old days, I still remember that lantern with the flies you gave me for my 6th birthday. By the dragons what we played with that thing, poor flies"</strong> <br><br>Tai examined him, he ran one hand thought the dark hair and pretended like he was thinking about the offer. <strong>"Oh what an offer, my best friends unborn child...or his wife."</strong> he said to himself and used one hand to scratch himself behind the left ear for a few seconds. <strong>"I am afraid I have to say no to your offer my friend, I have to marry royal."</strong> he replied, but he was still sounding like he was enjoying the little talk. <br><br>But it seemed like Ethan did remember the deal, my that boy had a memory like a dragon. <strong>"Oh is that so?"</strong> he said softly and tugged a little in the boys pants to make him come closer, then he pulled him down onto his lap and pressed his lips against the servant, keeping them together for a few seconds before he parted and moved to start stroking one of his hands over the boys chest and stomach. His dark eyes focused onto Feng. <strong>"Or Ethan could be wrong, I would never ever have forced my best friend into making such a promise."</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nadir</strong> on <strong>20-02-2010, 22:46:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/0/04/FengBao.jpg)</div><br>At Ethan's words, the wine in Feng's throat caught, and burned at it tried to get onto his lungs. He choked and coughed for several moments in an awkward and undignified way. When he stopped, his cheeks were coloured with embarrassment, and he stared at the pretty slave in disbelief. His mouth opened, and he started to say the youth must be mistaken - but he stopped himself before the first word could form, trapped in the no-man's-land of not wishing to insult Tai by refusing and having the control he had over his and Tai's relationship being torn from him. He had known Tai wanted him sexually, but Feng had been - well, afraid to take it to that level. Tai's only recurring lovers were his slaves, his pets. Feng didn't want to be discarded by his life-long friend just because of a stupid bet.<br><br>But to refuse, or to claim Ethan lied... it would be an awful insult. One so grave it might end their friendship with more surety than spending a night with the emperor would. Feng swallowed and looked at Tai, his eyes unusually wide. Tai's offer of an out was a great kindness, as if he knew how the situation tore Feng. He relaxed and coughed again, softly clearing his throat this time. "Perhaps you will accept a middle ground? If your slave insists his memory is true I will not shy from following through - but perhaps I might satisfy my honour and your victory with... a kiss?" 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NekoBoy89</strong> on <strong>20-02-2010, 23:09:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"Perhaps you will accept a middle ground? If your slave insists his memory is true I will not shy from following through - but perhaps I might satisfy my honour and your victory with... a kiss?"</em><br><br>It was rather amusing to examine the reaction of the friend, Tai followed his motions when he almost choked on the wine and coughed a few times, yeah that was most likely not something anyone had thought would happen. But the young emperor did not say anything and calmly waited for Feng to calm down a little, now this was bound to be very interesting. Would the friend agree to the terms, or would he not? It was never very sure when he was around the childhood friend, Tai liked him really much. That was why he offered him to say his point in the matter, he could not think that he ever wanted to be without Feng's support. <br><br>The words that was said made the emperor raise one eyebrow slightly, then he grinned and thought on the suggestion for a while before he replied to it. <strong>"A middle ground you say? I like the sound of that, hmm...yes I accept that offer Feng. You may...kiss your emperor."</strong> it sounded a little weird to say it, but for some reason Tai liked the sound of that. <strong>"or are you afraid I might turn you into another Ethan? Please Feng you know me better then that by now"</strong> 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MzNurse</strong> on <strong>20-02-2010, 23:40:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/8/86/Ethan.jpg)<br><br>Ethan wasn't surprised when Tai gently pulled him closer, but he was a little surprised when he was pulled into Tai's lap. He responded readily to the kiss, and leaned back comfortably against his Master, his cock giving a little twitch at the feel of Tai's fingers running up and down his front. He blushed deeply, remembering suddenly that they were in public.<br><br>He, too, watched Feng's reaction, albeit with hooded eyes. He wanted to smile at his Master's reply. Ethan wasn't lying, but he could have. He remembered well the night the deal was made, the first time he had seen both men drink more than was proper. <em>Ethan</em> remembered, but it didn't surprise him that neither of the Masters remembered the full details.&nbsp; He was surprised either of them remembered the deal at all. <br><br>Ethan liked Master Feng, and, should the man ask, Ethan would pretend to think and finally admit that he may have been wrong. But Master Feng didn't question him. Ethan smiled to himself, making a mental note to make sure Master Feng got the companion of his choosing tonight.&nbsp; He would pass the word around that this would be good in the eyes of Master Tai.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nadir</strong> on <strong>20-02-2010, 23:47:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/0/04/FengBao.jpg)</div><br>Feng hesitated for a moment, remembering that they were not in private. There were still people talking, moving, watching. His little coughing fit had brought even more attention onto the three of them. The audience gave him pause - he wasn't affectionate to anyone let alone be one for giving kisses in public. But the emperor seemed happy enough with the venue and Feng wasn't going to shy from it.<br><br>He lifted his chin a little and smiled to himself as he stepped closer to the throne. He put his goblet down on the small table and leaned over Tai and Ethan, the slave's slender shoulder pressing into his ribs slightly as he leaned closer, meeting the Emperor's gaze then flicking to Ethan's, then back again. "Why do I feel like there's a conspiracy here?" he murmured, amused, low enough so that there would be no eavesdroppers. He shook his head slightly and closed the last few inches between his lips and Tai's.<br><br>Feng's mouth was warm and firm for a moment, his dark eyes showing shards of amber when they were viewed so closely. A moment later and his lips softened and moved, nuzzling and growing more eager, his tongue darting out, tracing the other man's lips. It was a nervous kiss at first, but Feng was not quick to draw back, feeding on the Emperor's upturned mouth as if he was tasting a sweet delicacy after only eating gruel for months. Years. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NekoBoy89</strong> on <strong>20-02-2010, 23:59:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				While he waited for Feng to give a reply to the words Tai continued to stroke the servants stomach a little, letting his hand moved over the smooth fabric of his clothes. <em>"I hope these are not to hard clothes to get off, because when I am drunk tonight....I might have the tear them apart in order to get to the good parts inside"</em> the emperor purred lowly to the boys ear. <em>"but then again you look the best without any clothes on my pet, even better with some royal meat up that tight ass of yours"</em> he chuckled lowly. The man did not really care if Feng heard what he said to Ethan, after all it was not a secret that the boy was his toy at times, as well as dresser and washer. <br><br><em> "Why do I feel like there's a conspiracy here?"</em><br><br>Tai raised one eyebrow at the friends words, it was rather amusing to watch him act out like this. But to tell the truth even Tai was a little nervous about kissing his friend. Not that he thought people would talk or anything, no it was because he had been thinking about kissing him so many times and now here out of the blue Feng himself offered to kiss him? He did not move the gaze from the friends. <strong>"Well I am sure there is a large one around us right now Feng, there always is"</strong> he commented. The next second there lips meet for the second time in there entire lives. This was taking Tai back to the day many years ago when they both had been little boys, it was just been a playful thing then. Just something kid was doing and nothing more. <br><br>He could feel that the friend seemed to calm down, this helped in making him calmer and the kissed became a little more passionate. Tai actually liked it and did not really want to break the kiss until almost three minutes had past! His own tongue poked out to play with the friends to, making it one hell of a kiss. But sooner or later it was forced to end and Tai leaned back in his throne with a smile and he also licked his lips a little. <strong>"Mmm...I have to say your better then you was seven years ago Feng"</strong> he told him with a friendly voice. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MzNurse</strong> on <strong>21-02-2010, 00:43:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/8/86/Ethan.jpg)<br><br><div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?topic=61304.msg2762235#msg2762235">Quote from: NekoBoy89 on 20-02-2010, 23:59:56</a></div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote">While he waited for Feng to give a reply to the words Tai continued to stroke the servants stomach a little, letting his hand moved over the smooth fabric of his clothes. <em>"I hope these are not to hard clothes to get off, because when I am drunk tonight....I might have the tear them apart in order to get to the good parts inside"</em> the emperor purred lowly to the boys ear. <em>"but then again you look the best without any clothes on my pet, even better with some royal meat up that tight ass of yours"</em> he chuckled lowly. The man did not really care if Feng heard what he said to Ethan, after all it was not a secret that the boy was his toy at times, as well as dresser and washer.&nbsp; <br></blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>Ethan slowly turned scarlet as his Master purred these words to him. Even his ears turned red and showed through his unruly blonde hair. Master Feng came closer and closer, leaning in to kiss Master Tai, and soon Ethan found himself wedged between them, watching the two men as the kiss turned from nervous to hungry. Ethan found himself very much turned on by this, and to his chagrin, his cock hardened visibly. He was glad Master Feng was blocking everyone's view of him, and as soon as Master Feng moved, Ethan would shift so that his tunic would cover him. He bit his lip, doing his best to steady his breathing, images of himself wedged more firmly between them filling his mind. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nadir</strong> on <strong>21-02-2010, 01:10:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/0/04/FengBao.jpg)</div><br>The noble straightened up and reclaimed his goblet of wine, his breathing somewhat faster but otherwise appearing unaffected. However Tai, having years of observing Feng, would see he was dazed. He took a sip of wine to stop himself touching his tingling mouth. The kiss had woken something in him, a creature of heat and need he had thought only lived in his dreams. He had never felt so stirred in his life.<br><br>At Tai's words Feng smiled. " Despite public belief, I am experienced in the ways of the flesh," though he had little enough pleasure from the act. But this... <em>stirring</em> in him was wondrous. Still, he couldn't bask in it - someone (most likely being Tai) would notice and use it to their advantage. He needed to divert attention from himself... his gaze landed on Ethan. <br><br>Feng smiled, slow and sly. "Your pet seems to be hyperventilating, Tai. I knew he was excitable but this goes beyond the pale..." He reached out boldly and stroked cool fingertips down Ethan's nape, teasing. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NekoBoy89</strong> on <strong>21-02-2010, 01:23:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Tai made a pretend look of surprise when the friend told he he was having experience in the ways of the flesh, <strong>"Oh is that so? Here I thought you where married, but I guess I was wrong then"</strong> he commented and grinned a little, then he let out a soft chuckle and grasped the goblet to take a sip of the wine. Yeah he loved this wine, of the kinds that had been made by the family for generations. It was not hard to see that Feng had enjoyed the little event and that he most likely would not mind more, to tell the truth the emperor would not mind more of that. <br><br>But maybe he just had to drink a little more before he could get the excuse to be more forward? His eyes looked to the goblet and he smirked at the thought, yeah he could be really drunk at time. Hell Ethan was one to know since the boy always had to help him to bed during these events, and in bed he always ended up with the ass stuffed...or so it had been since his last birthday when he fucked the little blond boy the very first time, he still could remember it. How unsure the boy had been, but willing to try for his master. He was so loyal and beautiful...many times when he was drunk he had always told Ethan how perfect he was, but how much he would have wanted for him to be a woman so that they could get a kid. Also he would have to be of royal blood of course. <br><br>His daydreaming was interupted when Feng pointed out the excitement Ethan seemed to show about everything, the emperor slowly looked down at the boy and noticed the familiar bulge growing out from his crotch. <strong>"Is my little pet excited?"</strong> he asked softly and ran one hand thought the boys hair for a moment, then moving the hand down to the cheek. <strong>"Do you like to be wedged between the two of us, you can tell me precious. I do not think that it would be bad, on the other side...maybe we should"</strong> he smirked and moved closer so that he could whisper in the slaves ear. <em>"why don't you ask if Feng would like to share the bed with us this night? I know you want to ask and that you like him, nothing will hold you back...ask him...he wont refuse an offer from you my pet"</em> he then moved away from the air and wrapped both his arms around the blond boy. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MzNurse</strong> on <strong>21-02-2010, 02:25:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/8/86/Ethan.jpg)<br><br>He was relieved when the kiss was finally over and Master Feng moved back a bit. He quickly flipped the end of his tunic down over his bulging crotch, keeping his eyes averted so he didn't have to look at the two men while he struggled to get his senses under control. Cool fingertips caressed the heated flesh at his nape, and it wasn't his Master's touch. His eyes flew open wide, the crystal blue now deepened to a deep sapphire. Master Feng's touch was gentle and teasing and made his already full cock twitch.<br><br>It took a few seconds for Master Tai's words to register in his brain, and when they did, blush typical blush spread up his neck and into his face. He opened his mouth to answer, but no words, no sound, came out. He looked his Master full in the face and nodded, shame filling him over his response to the kiss. He closed his eyes and leaned comfortably back into Master Tai when his arms wrapped around him, his eyes sliding closed again. They shot back open as the whispered words registered in his heated brain. <br><br><div class="quoteheader"><div class="topslice_quote">Quote</div></div><blockquote class="bbc_standard_quote"><em>"why don't you ask if Feng would like to share the bed with us this night? I know you want to ask and that you like him, nothing will hold you back...ask him...he wont refuse an offer from you my pet" </em></blockquote><div class="quotefooter"><div class="botslice_quote"></div></div><br>He looked back up at his Master in surprise. Seriously? Yes, Master Tai was serious, and Ethan's entire body shivered at the thought. A soft moan escaped his lips as he struggled to maintain control. "Please," he whispered, his thoat suddenly so dry he could barely speak. He swallowed and licked his lips and started again. "Please, Master Feng," he said, not much louder than before. "Please could you join us in Master Tai's chambers tonight?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Doomsday</strong> on <strong>21-02-2010, 02:51:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Lǎo Fáng (老防)</strong></div>(http://kongming.net/11/i/p/port_lg/Created-Male-091.jpg) <br><br>Fang emerged from his quarters, dressed in the blue robes of his office. Even for such a festivity, Fang would never hang his ministerial robes up in favor for something more majestic. He was not a very social creature; He would only make an appearance to satisfy the Emperor and garner favor with the younger man. His eyes were instantly drawn to the elaborate throne, where the emperor sat with his slave boy and his friend, Master Feng. More than words were being exchanged between the three; Fang turned his head away, his mood soured by what he had seen. It was not his place to judge the emperor, but when it came to lovemaking, Fang preferred the fairer sex...<br><br>He looked among the various party-goers. There were prefects, governors, and even more vassals seated, along with their wives and their precious advisors. Some of the women were very fair, some were less pleasing to his eye. He quickly approached a dining table and sank to his knees, pouring himself some rice wine. To his right was a lovely woman, and to her right, her husband, a man he did not recognize by eye, but the man's robes indicated he was of only minor importance. He grinned, and nodded his greetings to the young woman, who recognized Lao Fang.<br><br>Fang was a visible hand of influence in the Emperor's politics. When conducting official policy, Lao Fang was always reading over Shun's shoulder, whispering into the younger man's ear. "My lord, this will displease the farmers in the Shouzhou region..." "The Governor of Yan would find great insult if the imperial guard lingers too long in his capital city." But today was the Emperor's party, and Fang decided he would 'socialize'. He sipped gently on his rice wine, content to leave the foods in front of him alone as he scanned the crowd.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nadir</strong> on <strong>21-02-2010, 12:42:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/0/04/FengBao.jpg)</div><br>Feng smirked at Tai's toying with the pet, the Emperor teasing the poor youth's eager body. It was amusing to watching. Feng drank some more of the wonderful wine while Tai whispered in the slave's ear, probably something to make him even more tormented. <br><br><em>"Please. Please, Master Feng. Please could you join us in Master Tai's chambers tonight?"</em><br><br>He almost choked again at the boy's bold question, but he managed to swallow before he laughed. "Because we have not yet given the gossipmongers of court enough to ruminate on. Ah, but doing so would make my mother delirious with rage..." The thought made his smile spread wider, but it died a few moments later, taking on a bitter twist and his gaze dropped. "I might. Convince me, Ethan." His gaze lifted and fixed on Tai. "Convince me one night is worth everything I have. Can you do that?" <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NekoBoy89</strong> on <strong>21-02-2010, 13:30:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Tai listened to the little slave when he was talking and asked Feng if he wanted to join them in his chambers for the evening, it was fun to see him do it and actually turned Tao on so much. Something Ethan could notice since he sat on the emperors lap, the bulge began to grow, poking his ass a little as it trubbed. His arms was still wrapped around the boys body and he made sure to kold him close so that the boys back touched his own chest. <strong>"Yeah that's a good boy"</strong> he told the slave and carefully brushed his lips against Ethan's cheek. The hands slowly began to stroke his body with gentle motions, making sure that he stayed a little around the nipples. <br><br>The emperor then looked over at Feng when the man was talking, the words made him smirk and lick himself around the lips. Now he knew this was going to be very good. <strong>"Yeah Ethan, what should we convince Feng with?"</strong> he askec curiously and squeezed the boys tighs a little with one of his hand while he was talking. <strong>"What is..."</strong> he grinned a little and then he slowly moved closer to the slaves ear again. It was so nice to have Ethan say all the ideas himself. <em>"I am sure you can think of something that will make him howl with pleasure, I know you are skilled....but remember...the first ride is mine"</em> he whispered softly. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MzNurse</strong> on <strong>21-02-2010, 20:43:29</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/8/86/Ethan.jpg)<br><br>Ethan smiled at Tai's words, feeling the hardness building against him. Master Tai had wanted his friend for a long time, and if it was within Ethan's grasp to give this to him, he would do it. He turned and kissed his Master before carefully standing, making sure he blocked the view of Tai's hardness from everyone. <br><br>He took a step closer to Master Feng, leaning up a bit to whisper into his ear. He whispered of the things Ethan could do to him, using nothing but lips and tongue and gentle teeth and fingertips with a featherlight touch, things his Master had taught him, things intended solely for pleasure. As he spoke, his breath washed warmly across Feng's ear, his lips so close they brushed the earlobe, taunting, teasing, promising so much more. Ethan's hand rested gently against Feng's chest, fingertips slowly tracing random patterns that encircled and caressed the man's nipples.<br><br>Ethan's whispered promises changed mouths and fingers to tight, hot asses and all the pleasures they could give, how willing they were to give them. To hard cocks covered with silky smooth skins and salty-sweet dewdrops dribbling from the tips, and all the pleasures to be received by them. He was nibbling on Master Feng's earlobe between whispered promises now, nuzzling against his jawline, voice husky in its lilting accent, promising a world of pleasure to be had if he would join them. By the time he was finished, Ethan's lips were brushing Feng's, and he darted out a tongue to caress Master Feng's lower lip.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>android</strong> on <strong>21-02-2010, 20:57:43</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Paiyou isn't dressed like a Western jester, but for the effect he is causing in the crowd he might well have been. As if the mad hat, enormous polka dotted green bow tie and deep purple jacket aren't enough his legs are wrapped in old pink. Even his shoes stand out, made of brown shiny cowhide in a distinct Occidental style. His skinny hands half peek out of the white laced fringes of his blouse. A plain gold ring adorns each thumb. He is fashionably late. It adds to the dramatic effect, assures everyone's attention as he enters the throne chamber. A wave of commotion opens up a path in the crowds, behind him he leaves a trail of gossip and hubbub. Ah! Home sweet home!<br><br>His face is powdered white, the colour of death. He knows he is taking a risk. But taking risks is part of his position. As he approaches the throne, he sees Tai, Feng and Ethan in what obviously is none of his business. He smiles in the direction of the trio and bows as the emperor notices his entrance. On one side of the great room his gaze falls on Fang skimming heads. Rather than interrupt what might be uninterruptible, he heads over to the bureaucrat for a torture session. "Master Fang!" he opens with a frivolous bow. Death is coming to pay you a visit, he thinks with a smile.<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Doomsday</strong> on <strong>21-02-2010, 22:01:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Lǎo Fáng (老防)</strong></div><br>(http://kongming.net/11/i/p/port_lg/Created-Male-091.jpg)<br><br>He bristles when he hears his name, turning to accost the jester. Lao Fang was not a humorless man, but that court jester had a talent for making him uncomfortable. He scowled at Paiyou. "That's Master <em>Lao</em>," he corrected, before he turned back to his wine and drained the last sip. He stood up uneasily, steadying his weak knees by resting a hand on Paiyou's shoulder. He retrieved his walking stick from the ground and planted it, finding a sense of balance now. "That's better. Paiyou, I have a surprise for the emperor, one that is quite ironic. Do you know what irony means?"<br><br>Not waiting for an answer, he left the table, indicating with a nod of his head for the jester to follow. "Quite ironic indeed, if you consider the type of company the emperor keeps." He didn't have to explain himself; The emperor was currently enjoying his young slave boy on his throne. The two of them left the throne room down an empty hallway, Lao Fang hobbling quite quickly on his lame knee and walking stick. A door loomed ahead, and Fang swung it open gingerly. Outside was a group of sixteen soldiers, wearing foreign armor; these were not the Emperor's soldiers. At their forefront was a man in golden armor, topped in a traditional kabuto. Lao Fang quickly knelt before this man. "<br><br><div align="center"><strong>Shun Hideyoshi</strong></div><br>(http://sengoku-database.tripod.com/avatar/odanobunaga.jpg)<br><br>"Rise, Lao Fang," the man in the golden armor commanded, and Fang did quickly find his feet. "I do not wish to linger here long; I will meet with the emperor, and be gone within an hour of the wedding's end."<br><br>If Paiyou was confused, he would soon become more confused. From behind Shun Hideyoshi, Emperor of the Sunset Islands to the East, a beautiful young woman (http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/f/f6/Asian%2Ccg%2Cdigital%2Cart%2Cfantasy%2Cillustration%2Cjapanese-e57a1738bfc29abac2af8ebcc4fd71e6_h.jpg) made her presence known.<br><br>Lao Fang smiled. "This is Princess Shun Midori, Tai Shun's bride to be. They were engaged six years ago, during the reign of Shun's father... I imagine he does not remember this agreement, but it must be honored." He had a thin smile on his face, as if he found this all amusing. And he did.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nadir</strong> on <strong>21-02-2010, 22:49:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/0/04/FengBao.jpg)</div><br>Feng's gaze stayed on Tai while the slave whispered of the tricks of pleasure he could do with his mouth in his sweet, lyrical voice. His breath hitched when the youth's lips brushed the curve of his ear, his eyes not moving from the emperor as the royal slave murmured temptation and perfect sin. Feng could hear his heartbeat, feel the muscle bump his breastbone, the heat of blood rushing between his legs and making his manhood twitch and begin to swell. Ethan's slow touch made it impossible to think beyond the here and now, where there was only the slave's seductive suggestions and touch, and Tai's heated gaze.&nbsp; <br><br>He forced his breathing to slow and shut his eyes so he didn't have to look at his friend while the boy's topic switched to something Feng was less familiar with but still made his body coil and burn with desire. His hands came to rest on Ethan's hips, and he tilted his head so their foreheads touched instead of their lips. His eyes opened, the look in them one of hunger and anger - though a moment later his emotions were hidden again. His hands tightened slightly as he looking into the boy's blue eyes. <br><br>"After such bragging, how could I possibly refuse." It wasn't a yes and his tone held the stinging poison of malice, but the silk he wore didn't hide the eager response of his body. His face softened and he let out a slow sigh, dispelling his irritation over his own reactions and Ethan's natural ability at drawing them out. He released his grip on the boy and nodded at Tai. "Go back to your master, pet. You always had a wonderful way of training your toys, Tai. How is it that I always wind up monopolising you at these soirées? Not that I'm complaining, but to neglect your guests all in the name of a years old bet..."<br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MzNurse</strong> on <strong>21-02-2010, 22:56:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/ee/Midori.jpg)<br><br>Shun Midori was not a happy woman. She'd trained with her father's troops from childhood, made a name for herself as a strong but fair leader and warrior, even at her young age. It was no secret her father was disappointed that his first born had been female, but it was a secret that Midori envied the love and attention her father paid to her younger brother. It would be her brother that would inherit everything, while Midori had been married off to the first person her father could shift her off onto.<br><br>Midori stood tall and proud, befitting her rank, keeping all emotion out of her eyes. It had been a long week's journey to get here, and they had arrived, as her father had planned, on her sixteenth birthday. He hadn't wanted to wait to be rid of her, hadn't even wished her a good day. But she would not cry, would not allow anyone to see her hurt. She had done everything in her life to please him, but he had never wanted her. <br><br><em>Lao Fang. Palace Minister. Advisor to Shun Tai, her betrothed, a man she'd never met. Uses a cane due to a knee injury when he had been Chief Protector of the previous emperor, injured when he had been not much older than she.</em> She ran through this little bit of information, all of the information she had on him, really, and she couldn't help but peek curiously around her father's shoulder to see this man that would most likely become a part of her new life as Empress.<br><br>Soft brown eyes blinked at him, taking in his dress, his cane, his stature...and the creature behind him. A gasp escaped her lips, and without a second thought, she stepped quickly in front of Shun Hideyoshi, her father. She was a tiny woman, barely over five feet, slender but muscular, and very definitely feminine. A delicate brow raised in question as she looked directly at Lao Fang. "You think to greet Shun Hideyoshi by bringing Death? Is this the welcome your new Empress should expect?" Her voice was soft and tinkling, though the words themselves demanded an answer. Tiny, almost dainty hands rested on the swords at her hips, leaving no doubt that this porcelain doll could be as harsh and vicious as she needed to be.<br><br><em>He seems an intelligent, respectful man</em> she thought. <em>And quite handsome. May my wishes be granted that my betrothed is the same.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Doomsday</strong> on <strong>21-02-2010, 23:51:38</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Lǎo Fáng (老防)</strong></div><br>(http://kongming.net/11/i/p/port_lg/Created-Male-091.jpg)<br><br>It had been about six years since he had last seen her, and she had just been a child then. My, how much she had grown... He smiled as he looked her up and down, though he did his best to be discreet about his examination. She had her jaw set firmly, almost in defiance as she stepped in front of her father and rested her hands on the swords at her hips. She had been a fiery girl before, he could remember. On that day, six years ago, Lao Fang had gone to the Sunset Islands with the Emperor's father, then Emperor Bue, to arrage the marriage between Shun Midori and Shun Tai. The matching surnames were curious, but they were nothing more than coincidence, though old Emperor Bue and Sunset Emperor Shun were very brotherly to each other, despite Emperor Bue being the much older man.<br><br>That day, six years ago, young Shun Midori had told her father that she would rather marry a fish than a stupid western Ox. Despite this slight, Emperor Bue only laughed, but Hideyoshi was wroth. Lao Fang knew the girl would be punished for her transgression, though he never learned what happened to her.<br><br>Examining her now, he could at least see she was not harmed in a visible manner. Perhaps Shun Hideyoshi did not strike her at all, though the bold emperor seemed the type. <br><br><strong>."You think to greet Shun Hideyoshi by bringing Death? Is this the welcome your new Empress should expect?"</strong> Her comment caught Lao Fang off-guard. He looked around, expecting to find a contingent of his own imperial soldiers surrounding him, swords raised. But there was only Paiyou. He turned back to the princess and bowed stiffly. "Forgive me, Princess, but neither I nor Paiyou pose a threat to your Emperor. I am a lame man; I would be confined to a chair if not for this stick." Turning back to the curious looking jester, he said, "And Paiyou? He's worthless. Sparrows have more martial capability than this one." Lao Fang could feel the fire in the young woman, and despite her open hostility, he could not help but feel drawn towards her. Her relationship with Shun Tai would be a disaster; He did not need to be a mystic to see that. It would make the future very interesting.<br><br>"Emperor Shun, Princess Midori, if you would follow me, I will show you to the emperor personally..." He turned from them and began to lead the way, beckoning for the jester to follow swiftly behind.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MzNurse</strong> on <strong>22-02-2010, 00:47:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/ee/Midori.jpg)<br><br>She assessed him coolly, noticing his small jump of surprise at her words. She bit her inner cheek, doing her best not to laugh at the comical expression on his face as he looked around, only to find himself standing there with nothing but that hideously dressed...thing...standing behind him.&nbsp; She took note of the stiff bow and how he favored one leg. So his knee was paining him today. How sad to live in such pain. Her mind immediately went to the ointments packed in her bag, wondering if there was some way to ease his pain. <br><br>She nodded agreement and stepped aside to let her father lead, grateful that Lao Fang had already turned away and didn't see the scathing look her father gave her. Midori ignored the look, pretending she hadn't seen it as she fell into step behind him, head held high, her relaxed stance giving lie to the knots of anxiety in her belly. <em>Please, please, please</em> she begged the powers that be. <em>If you grant nothing else, at least let my betrothed be a kind and forgiving man.</em>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>android</strong> on <strong>22-02-2010, 10:51:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Palyou feels offended by the lack of respect the bureaucrat seems to have for death. Master Fang, master Lao. Same difference! The guy is so uptight if it got any worse he should be disassembled and made into body armor! He threw his soothing jeer across and bowed again. "Oh, dear me! I must beg forgiveness, my longer stints abroad must have stained my memory." The man needed some of the special candy he brought for the commander-in-chief. But the present is for the emperor, not for this dusty relic with the fiery eyes. What <em>is</em> he doing?<br><br>And why is <em>he</em> dragged along? Palyou's alarm bells are ringing as the odd couple make their way out of the room. Fang's dislike of some of the emperor's preferences is known to him, but he hadn't pegged the guy as having an aspiration to rule the world. Interesting... As the fresh air rushes towards his face he is able to make out the party. Armed men! This is even better than the epic poem he's preparing! And the schemer falls to his knees? My my. His mind wanders back to the drama classes he himself took when he was younger.<br><br>Palyou knew of Shun Hideyoshi, of course. And of his 'lovely' first born. He had passed through the Sunset Islands on several of his journeys. Oh nononono! Surely they will not! He had wanted to suggest his flat-chested sister for the emperor. This girl will never do! There isn't a corset in the empire that can hide those! What was master Lao thinking? The girl doesn't like his outfit? Hey lady, what else is new? He bites his tongue to prevent the outbreak of hostility before its time.<br><br>So the emperor is engaged to be married to Shun Midori of the Sunset Islands. This <em>is</em> going to be an interesting evening. He will need to rewrite his epic poem. From scratch! He watches the drama unfold with solemn dignity.<br><br><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Doomsday</strong> on <strong>22-02-2010, 11:37:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Lǎo Fáng (老防)</strong></div><br>(http://kongming.net/11/i/p/port_lg/Created-Male-091.jpg)<br><br>The emperor of the Sunset Islands would not feel secure without his men at his side, but the emperor of this land would not be fond of having foreign soldiers at his dinner party. Lao Fang advised that Shun Hideyoshi only bring two men with him, and the eastern Emperor had agreed.<br><br>It was quite an interesting entourage, or perhaps, it was made most interesting by Paiyou, who jingled with each step taken. The jester lead the way, never conforming to Lao Fang's slow gait, while the Prime Minister himself was a few steps behind, walking side by side with Shun Hideyoshi. Midori was behind them, and the two personal guards brought up the rear. To the young princess, it must have seemed as if her father and Lao Fang were blocking one exit, and her father's men the other.<br><br>The commotion and sound of festivity grew louder as they came closer to the throne room, and Lao Fang paused for a moment, deep in thought before he pushed the doors open and lead the Emperor and his entourage into the room. All the sound in the room instantly died as the attention was drawn to the newcomers. It was Hideyoshi's golden armor that had first caught their eyes, then it was the beautiful girl behind him, and the two armed men behind her. The rest were all familiar with Lao Fang and the court jester beside him.<br><br>Fang cleared his throat, and turned to the emperor's throne to bow. "My Lord! I present, Emperor Shun Hideyoshi from the Sunset Islands," no relation, he added in his mind sarcastically, "and Princess Shun Midori." He paused, and licked his lips. Would the next words pain him to say? he looked up to the Emperor Shun Tai, and thought about how painfully beautiful Midori was. "Your bride to be."<br><br>There was a moment's silence before the entire room burst into chatter, and shouting... Lao Fang smiled, his crooked grin wide on his face.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NekoBoy89</strong> on <strong>22-02-2010, 13:27:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Emperor Tai calmly watched what his pet was doing, he could not hear what was said. But the young man did not have a problem to know what could have been said and the thought made him smile a little. It also looked like Feng enjoyed the thoughts and this added to the fact that it was very amusing. His eyes looked across the room a little now and then, but the eyes turned to the friend when he talked. The words made him chuckle a little. <strong>"Yes come back here Ethan, I want you where I can be close to you."</strong> he gave a small pat on the throne's front, close to the soft pillow the boy always had to use when with him in here. It was more formal when to have him on the lap. <br><br>The emperors eyes then turned towards Feng again. <strong>"Not at all Feng, I never neglect my other guests. In fact I am not thinking to return to my chambers yet for some hours."</strong> he explained, the evening was still young so he saw no problem with that. <strong>"But this is not a part of the bet, you still have a few more hours to make yourself mentally ready for this little adventure"</strong> he smirked and licked his lips before he sighed and grasped a few grapes from the bowl with fruits. <br><br>The sudden sound of the door into the chamber opening captured his attention and he casually looked in the direction, he first noticed the man with the golden armor, the young woman and then his minister and the jester. Calmly he raised one eyesbrow and moved his leg down from the armrest examining the visitors with a curious look in his eyes. This seemed serious, so he waves Feng to walk a little to the side and then waited. The words that was said made it feel a little like someone dropped a rock inside of his chest, he was surprised but nothing of this was shown on the outside. No showing a weakness was never a good thing for an emperor. <strong>"Now this was very pleasurable surprise, I did not know you where in my kingdom Hideyoshi"</strong> he said with a smile and stood up from the throne. <strong>"I have not seen you since the meeting for peace five years ago."</strong> when standing the emperor was a very impressive and handsome man. <br><br>He slowly raised his hand when people started to talk. <strong>"Manners people, we have a very important guest here today."</strong> he called out and the room once again turned silent. <strong>"So this is my bride to be?"</strong> he asked and the dark eyes examined the young lady, she was beautiful alright. Even Tai could see that, but he liked men more. But he also knew his duties to get an heir, he just did not think it was going to happen to suddenly. <strong>"I welcome you to my kingdom princess"</strong>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MzNurse</strong> on <strong>22-02-2010, 19:59:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/ee/Midori.jpg)<br><br>She wanted to flee, to turn and run and just disappear forever. Forget trying to please her father, forget she was Princess Midori, betrothed to a man she'd never met, forget this marriage all together. She forced herself to remain calm, to take the next step down this one-way tunnel of a hallway that offered her no way out. Wedged as she was between the men of power in front of her and the guards behind, Midori now knew the feelings of the condemned man headed for the chopping block. Peasant women were little more than chattel in this day and age, and, for all her titles, her father treated her no differently than he treated his servants. She was given no choice in her fate, and it was time now for her to face it.<br><br>Sudden quiet told her they had reached the throne room, and she stood tall and proud, her delicate features unreadable.&nbsp; She took a look around the richly decorated chamber, ignoring all the eyes glued to first her father, then herself. She heard Master Lao introduce them, catching the hesitation before announcing her as his betrothed. Did Shun Tai not know about this?&nbsp; While this would be a way out for her, she knew her father would not be pleased and demand marriage or war.<br><br>For the first time, Midori looked at Shun Tai. The fleeting expression of surprise in his eyes was not missed, but the look of absolute shock she glimpsed on the blonde boy in front of him, brief as it was, told her even more. Shun Tai did not want a wife, he wanted a boy. Her heart dropped to her toes, even a she assessed the gorgeously handsome man as he rose from the throne. She had asked for kindness and understanding, and that may very well be the only thing she received from this marriage. <br><br>She bowed to him when he welcomed her, her senses of duty and pride the only things holding her together right now. "It is a pleasure to meet you, My Lord," she told him dutifully, not sure what else to say. She was trapped, with no options. She would suffer the fate her mother had never wanted for her, a loveless marriage. She would endure, just as her mother had. She would run his household, see to his comfort, greet his guests, perform her duties as Empress, and(maybe) produce his heirs. She had no choice. It was this life her father had chosen for her, or a shameful death.<br><br>(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/8/86/Ethan.jpg)<br><br>Ethan ran a sensuous hand down Master Feng's chest, giving him a promising smile before returning to his pillow at Master Tai's feet. He leaned back against the throne, resting his head on Tai's inner thigh. Life was good. Tonight, he would please both Tai and Feng, and all would be well.<br>the sudden quiet caught his attention and he sat straighter, more formal, and looked out past Master Feng. <br><br>His eyes widened in awe at the man in golden armor, taking in the fierceness in his regal stance. This was not a man to mess with, he could tell, but Master Lao's next words shocked him completely. Married? But Master Tai couldn't marry! What would happen to him? Would the wife force Tai to sell him? She wouldn't do that!&nbsp; Tai would never agree...would he? No. He would never leave Tai. He loved Master Tai, truly loved him, and it would take more than a wife to make Tai sell him...wouldn't it? Hate began to fill Ethan, began to seep into his heart.&nbsp; Ethan had never before felt hate like this.<br><br>His gaze moved to the beautiful woman who bowed to his Master, seeing past her delicate features and regal movements, knowing instinctively she wanted to be here even less than Tai wanted to be married. He couldn't hate the woman, but he could hate the Golden Man that forced this fate. He vowed that he would do all he could to get his revenge on this man that threatened his love for Tai.<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NekoBoy89</strong> on <strong>22-02-2010, 20:15:30</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/a/a6/Tai.jpg)<br><br>Emperor Shun Tai sighed a little and smiled at the woman, then he turned towards some of the servants standing to the side of the room and gestured to them. <strong>"Get comfortable seats for our guests"</strong> he ordered with a strict voice and the servants nodded and quickly ran off to get something comfortable for the other emperor and his girl. They would not get anything to the jester or Fang, after all they where both servants to the empire. <br><br>While waiting for the servants to return Tai once again sat down on his throne and placed one of his hands at Ethan's shoulder and squeezed a little, he could not say anything to the boy but was hoping that the little gesture could give some comfort. He could not admit that he loved Ethan more then was needed, emperors could have lovers of both genders and it was not unheard of. In fact his own father used to have male lovers mixed with the females.<br><br>&nbsp;But love could never come into question and marriage even less. But the young emperor knew what he had to do, it was something he had been raised for and knew it would come. Nothing was ever going to dismiss the fact that he loved his people, and refusing to this marriage could throw them all into a war. Something he had been able to walk around for the last five years. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nadir</strong> on <strong>22-02-2010, 20:38:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/0/04/FengBao.jpg)</div><br>The sudden appearance of Tai's betrothed did a good a job at banishing thought from his mind as Ethan's tortuous promises. Beyond the surprise at a woman claiming to be Tai's promised, it was the presence of the ruler of the neighbouring empire, arrogantly believing he could travel through Tai's land without repercussions. Foolish, suicidal and insulting. His eyes went to Fang - would he be tried as a traitor? It was obvious he had orchestrated this act of near-treason. Had the man not learnt in five years of prosperity that Tai was a stronger, wiser emperor than his late father had been? And yet the man undermined him. <br><br>His hand went to his hip, but the familiar weight of his sword was missing - to come to a private function with a sword was rude - and he hissed in frustration. Feng fisted his hand and forced it down, glaring at the soldiers who had come with the 'visiting' emperor and his daughter. It seemed not only was the other man sickeningly arrogant but also ignorant of the implications of bringing soldiers into a private party where the guests were unarmed. <br><br>He was unable to act. And he had no real right staying for this meeting - land-poor, he was not important enough to have a word. He was loathed to bow to that fact, especially when the 'visiting' emperor offered such insults, but he was unable to remain without Tai's expressed desire. "Do you wish me to stay? Feng whispered to his emperor.&nbsp; &nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Doomsday</strong> on <strong>23-02-2010, 03:13:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Lǎo Fáng (老防)</strong></div><br>(http://kongming.net/11/i/p/port_lg/Created-Male-091.jpg)<br><br>The emperor's attention was tuned to his new and unexpected guests, but Lao Fang could tell some eyes were on him. He bowed his head, as if trying to deflect all of the looks that were being given to him, but he could tell there was still one man who was looking at him... Looking up to the throne, he met Feng Bao's sinister look, and merely smiled. Lao Fang deserved none of the blame for this, but the emperor's friend would only hear what he wished to hear.<br><br>Lao Fang turned his head slightly to the right, to look at he Princess and Empress-to-be. She seemed stunned by the company Shun Tai kept, and he felt a pang of remorse for her. How awful it must have been to be promised to a man who did not love women... Perhaps Fang would soon garner himself a new ally in court.<br><br>The emperor ordered that his guests be made comfortable. His guests, meaning Lao Fang was expected to return to the dining table like some stable boy's son. He bit his lip; as Prime Minister, he was the third most powerful man in this room, and he broiled at the slight, or perhaps the oversight of his office. But he was much more tactful than to complain, so he bowed and returned to where he was previously sitting, and poured himself another drink. He would need it.<br><br><div align="center"><strong>Shun Hideyoshi</strong></div><br>(http://sengoku-database.tripod.com/avatar/odanobunaga.jpg)<br><br>The foreign emperor scanned the room, as if looking for friendly faces though he knew he would find none. <strong>"Now this was very pleasurable surprise, I did not know you where in my kingdom Hideyoshi"</strong>, spoke the western emperor. The informal speak irked him, but he could forgive the slight just this once; This young western emperor would be his own son in law within the hour, and he would be gone from this place, well on his way back to the Sunset Islands. "You seem surprised to see us," Shun Hideyoshi replied coolly. It was Shun Tai's father, the late Emperor Bue, who arranged this marriage six years ago in Shun Hideyoshi's own court; He had been delighted to host the Westerners then, but now it seems they had forgotten their promise. A little blond boy stood before Shun Tai; Hideyoshi did not need a soothsayer to tell what their relationship was.<br><br>Master Lao Fang was not the only man to have hateful eyes turned this way. That young boy was staring at him now, as if offended by Hideyoshi's presence. The Sunset Emperor's perpetual frown turned into a scowl, but he said nothing, and was escorted by the western servants into a seat, what seemed to be a makeshift throne, two paces to the Western Emperor's left. In between them, a seat was made for his daughter, Midori. Hideoyoshi ordered his guards to stand at the doors, and that they were guests at a party, not on a battlefield. If Shun Hideyoshi or any in his procession offended Shun Tai, there would be talk of calling off the marriage, talks that would be justified.<br><br>Shun Hideyoshi sat forward in his new chair, and accepted a goblet of wine offered to him. After taking a long draft of the sweet rice wine, he turned to the younger emperor. "If it is not an intrusion, Tai, then I would wish that the wedding be done within the hour." He did not need to explain himself. An Emperor's time was worth more than gold.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NekoBoy89</strong> on <strong>23-02-2010, 09:34:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<em>"Do you wish me to stay?</em><br><br>Tai did not reply, but he gave a small nod to show Feng that he wished for him to remain where he was. He just needed a few moments to go thought this all, it was a small surprise everything. But it was starting to sink in nicely now, he just needed to make sure to think for the best of his people. His dark eyes examined the other emperor and the young princess, his eyes then moved to Lao Fang and he did not see why one of his most trusted advisors seemed so smug about this matter. But unlike his friend the emperors eyes was a little confused, but still with a strong hint of control. He was on that part his fathers son and it would be hard to make him lose control, he had been raised to be in control and become the emperor. <br><br><em>"You seem surprised to see us,"</em><br><br>The young emperors eyes moved to the older one and examined him casually with his dark eyes, he thought about a good reply and then he nodded a little in slight agreement. "To be honest with you yes, I had no idea you even where coming today. How come you did not send any message of your arrival?" he was not sure why the other ruler had been so rude as to just walk into his chamber in this rude fashion. It was a large offense and if he had been his own father he would have had the man thrown out again, even if that would mean war his father never cared about it. Hell he would even have tried to kill the other emperor. <br><br><em>"If it is not an intrusion, Tai, then I would wish that the wedding be done within the hour."</em><br><br>Not an intrusion? Tai waited until he was done talking, then the young man made a small pause to let the words sink into the area around them. Making sure it was completely silent before he gave a reply. "Within the hour Hideyoshi? As you can see we are celebrating five years of peace between the kingdoms, I would say the timing for a wedding could not be better then this. A union created in the name of peace will bring security to both our kingdoms" he smiled and then he ran one hand thought the dark hair. "Fang, can we make everything ready for a wedding within the hour?" he asked and looked to the minister as he said this, showing that he still trusted the man and his wisdom in important questions. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MzNurse</strong> on <strong>23-02-2010, 16:03:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/ee/Midori.jpg)<br><br>Midori sat politely between her father and her future husband. Her mind was frantically trying to sift through all the information she had been given regarding her betrothed, and discovered she had more information on Lao Fang than she did on Shun Tai. She let the conversation buzz around her, paying half attention to it. <em>Shun Tai. Son of Emporer Bue. Known for bringing peace to his lands, increasing trade, and being fair.</em><br><br>Her head snapped up as her father's words registered. <em>"If it is not an intrusion, Tai, then I would wish that the wedding be done within the hour." </em> She blinked. Was she to be married in her traveling uniform then? <em>"Fang, can we make everything ready for a wedding within the hour?" </em> That was it. She may be nothing but a pawn to her father, and would probably be little more than that to this man who was to be her husband, but if she were to be forced into marriage, she'd be damned if she were going to do it in dusty, sweaty traveling clothes.<br><br>"No," she said, loudly and firmly. "It is not possible for this to happen." She thought quickly not sure for a moment how to proceed. It was useless to try to get her father to understand, so she turned to Shun Tai. "Please, My Lord," she adressed him, head bowed in respect, eyes lowered (she had yet to look at him directly). "The clothes I wear are unfit for a marriage to one such as yourself. and there are certain rituals my religion requires me to perform to be, " she swallowed, color filling her delicately boned face, "to be purified before entering the wedding bed. Usually I am given four days, but there are shortened rituals.&nbsp; The soonest I could be properly ready to wed is four hours, and that is only if I begin immediately."<br><br>The explanation was given with utmost respect, the voice soft and even, her bearing strong and regal. But the look in her eyes when she glanced at Ethan, begging for help, told him the truth. Midori was frightened.&nbsp; Scared and trapped, left with no options.&nbsp; She needed time to adjust. If the man standing beside Shun Tao saw that look, saw that weakness in her, she was unaware.<br><br>(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/8/86/Ethan.jpg)<br><br>Ethan took comfort in the hand Master Tai placed on his shoulder, but the fear of being sold off remained. He listened closely to the conversation, all the while studying this woman that threatened his position. He gave the Golden Fighter a quizzical look when demanded the wedding within an hour, but it quickly changed to a look of stunned hurt when Tai agreed.<br><br>It was the woman's words that he clung to, especially after that look of pleading. She didn't want this marriage any more than he did, and if she needed time to find a way out of it, he would give it to her. Hell, he'd give her all the help she needed! "She is right, Master," he whispered to Tai. "She needs time to prepare, as do you. Your clothing is not of wedding finery." He stood quickly, stepping away from the throne. "I will find my new Mistress a proper maidservent to assist her," he announced, giving Master Tai no choice in the matter before bowing to Midori and taking off.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NekoBoy89</strong> on <strong>23-02-2010, 16:39:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/a/a6/Tai.jpg)<br><br>Emperor Shun Tai raised one eyebrow when his wife to be began to talk and said her no, he did not say anything to her and just examined the beautiful woman when she was talking. He did not speak back until she was done, but his arms across over the chest in a serious and thoughtful manner. When Midori was all done he closed his eyes and frowned a little as he thought about everything, yeah her words was true and it also gave Tai a reason to fix some things of his own. <strong>"Very well I can accept those termes"</strong> he began and opened his eyes and, he examined the lady and then he looked to her father. <strong>"I would not walk against the words of a religion, if what the lady tells is true I do think this will take more then just an hour old friend"</strong> he said to the fellow emperor. <strong>"and now that you are here I would not see that you just leave right after your arrival."</strong> he smiled in a friendly manner. <br><br><strong>"Shun Hideyoshi why don't you try some of our contries wines, I have a small memory you where a man that could enjoy the good things in life"</strong> he snapped his finger and within a few seconds a servant arrived with a golden goblet filled with the cool liquid for the eastern emperor to drink. Tai waited until the servant had left before he continued to talk, still with the same friendly tone to the voice. But he sure hoped that the emperor had a good reason for not have been sent any kind of message ahead of there visit, it could be seen as a rather strong insult. After all now there was nothing ready for a wedding, no food or clothes or a person to perform the cermony. Did the eastern emperor think so lowly off Tai's kingdom that he just barged inside and demanded a wedding right away? <br><br>Shun Tai glanced to his pet, he listened and was slightly irritated that the boy took such great freedom in his words. He was going to have to talk to him about how to act when around visitors, he was after all just an object to most of the others even if Tai cared much about the young man. He knew that he just wanted to help, but even Ethan had to accept that there relation never could become an official one, sure people could know that he used the boy for fun in the bedroom and found it fun to have him around. But nothing could ever go deeper then that. The emperor gave out a soft sight when the blond dissappeared away from the chamber to find a maidservant for the princess. This was giving him a small headache, but he did not show it now. <em>"Ethan....do not make a fool out of me"</em> he whispered to himself, but none of the others could hear him. After all if the servant was acting badly it would seem like he was a bad master. <br><br><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Doomsday</strong> on <strong>24-02-2010, 03:31:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Shun Hideyoshi</strong></div><br>(http://sengoku-database.tripod.com/avatar/odanobunaga.jpg)<br><br>Hideyoshi seemed nonplussed by the emperor's words, but he bowed his head shamefully. "I suppose it was my mistake to not send a word forth." He looked over to where the emperor's vassals were&nbsp; dining, finding the blue hat of Lao Fang among the crowd. Hideyoshi <em>had</em> sent word forward, to the prime minister himself, but it seemed the man had left his emperor in the dark.<br><br>The Sunset Emperor was pleased when Shun Tai agreed to host the wedding within an hour, but his daughter immediately objected, and his dark eyes narrowed at the back of her head. She was speaking with Tai now, pleading her case, or perhaps just avoiding her father's venomous gaze. Then, the servant boy, or perhaps slave, spoke up as well, well out of turn. If it was in Hideyoshi's court, he would have the boys tongue ripped out, regardless of how beloved he was. It was a grave error for someone so low in status to advise the emperor of the entire Western lands. But the younger emperor seemed to value the boys counsel, and it was not Hideyoshi's place to take offense in another man's court.<br><br>"I would like to speak with my daughter in private-" he said, but he was interrupted by the emperor's wine servers, which he quickly waved off. "If... There will be time for wine later, begging your pardon Emperor Tai." He rested one hand on Midori's shoulder, fatherly and protective. "Emperor Tai, if we were to speak in private, where could we do so?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NekoBoy89</strong> on <strong>24-02-2010, 09:33:18</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/a/a6/Tai.jpg)<br><br><em>"I suppose it was my mistake to not send a word forth."</em><br><br>Shun Tai gave a small nod to this, it was good that the other emperor could understand the mistake made in a graceful manner. Always a good thing and Tai would have done the same if he had been in the other once kingdom. <strong>"We all make mistakes old friend, I forgive this one gladly. Just remember to send words to me next time you plan to visit my kingdom. As you can see we where not all ready for a royal visit this evening"</strong> he gestured a little around the chamber towards the guests and then he turned the attention to Hideyoshi again. <br><br><em>"I would like to speak with my daughter in private-" he said, but he was interrupted by the emperor's wine servers, which he quickly waved off. "If... There will be time for wine later, begging your pardon Emperor Tai." He rested one hand on Midori's shoulder, fatherly and protective. "Emperor Tai, if we were to speak in private, where could we do so?"</em><br><br>Shun Tai listened to the request and then he thought about it and glanced around the room for a few seconds, he nodded a little and looked to the eastern emperor and his young child again. <strong>"Of course you may talk with your daughter in private Hideyoshi, I see no problem with that."</strong> he sighed softly and moved a dark strand of hair from his face. <strong>"I am sure there will be time for wine later on. If you walk out from this chamber and then take a left you should find the first door to your left. That is a meeting chamber I use sometimes, not really my favorite room but it should work perfectly for a private talk"</strong> he explained and slowly showed with his hand as he was talking. <br><br>Emperor Shun then looked around the room for a few seconds before he gestured a little to another servant to come over to him, the young lady arrived and asked what he wished. <strong>"I wish to speak with my minister, tell him to come over here"</strong> he ordered and the young woman gave a little nod before she quickly walked over towards the table the vassals was sitting around. When she arrived she calmly waited for the prime minister to notice her before she bowed her head. "Excuse me Master Lao, but the emperor requests that you join him by his throne" she told with a gentle voice. "It seemed very important"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MzNurse</strong> on <strong>24-02-2010, 12:50:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/ee/Midori.jpg)<br><br>Midori knew from the undertone in her father's voice that he was not happy.&nbsp; She hadn't expected him to be, but then she hadn't expected his demand to speak privately with her, either. She stood carefully, eyes respectfully downcast, and followed Shun Tai's directions to the private meeting room.&nbsp; She dreaded this conversation--more of a confrontation--that was about to take place with her father and would avoid it if she could. His hand on her shoulder prevented that, so she mentally prepared herself for what was to come.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Doomsday</strong> on <strong>26-02-2010, 07:44:33</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Shun Hideyoshi</strong><br><br>(http://sengoku-database.tripod.com/avatar/odanobunaga.jpg)</div><br>(Post will be a little short, I am demoralized after losing that last post :( )<br><br>Hideyoshi guided Midori to the room that the Emperor had designated, paying the other man little heed as he passed. Inside of the conference room, he closed the door behind him and for a moment he said nothing. Hideyoshi turned to look at his daughter, an angry look on his face, and he reached out for her as if he were going to strike her. Instead, he grabbed her by the shoulder and pulled her close into a hug. He and his daughter did not get along very well, but he still loved her very much, and he wanted her to see that now, because sometimes, he was not sure if she understood how he felt.<br><br>After a moment he pulled away from her. Gone was the rough edge of his voice. "Daughter of mine, born of my body. If it is your wish to have time to prepare for your wedding, I shall give you the full four days, and stay here with you to witness the ceremony. I cannot deny you what you this. It would be a disgrace as a father to hurry his daughter's only wedding." He looked her in the eyes, waiting for her response.<br><br><hr><br><hr><br><div align="center"><strong>Lǎo Fáng (老防)</strong><br><br>(http://kongming.net/11/i/p/port_lg/Created-Male-091.jpg)</div><br>Fang watched father and daughter go, and he thought to trail behind and perhaps drop eaves on their conversation, but his thoughts were interrupted when a servant came forward to summon him to the Emperor's side. Fang cocked an eyebrow, and drained the last sip of his cup before setting it down and striding past the woman.<br><br>Bowing was a difficult task, both mentally and physically. It was hard to bow because of his leg, and because of his arrogance. He bowed with ease when it was Emperor Bue's reign, because the old man, now deceased, had commanded Lao Fang's respect like he might a horse. But the young man on the throne now was for the most part untested, and for some reason, Lao Fang did not share that same relationship with Emperor Bue as he did with Bue's son.<br><br>It was required of him though, and he sunk awkwardly to a knee, his leg quaking as he lowered it, and finally resting peacefully as he knelt. He gently set his walking stick to the ground and bowed his head. "How may I serve you, Tai?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NekoBoy89</strong> on <strong>26-02-2010, 11:02:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/a/a6/Tai.jpg)<br><br><em>"How may I serve you, Tai?"</em><br><br>Tai watched the minister when he walked over and kneeled down in front of the throne, he sighed a little and made a small pause after the question to think what he would say. <strong>"Did you know about this business?"</strong> he asked him with a serious voice and examined the older man. <strong>"I was almost seen as a complete fool in front of my entire court, you have always given me great advice and you know I trust you. Most likely more then I trust many people in this chamber right now."</strong> he gestured to the room around them and then he sighed deeply. <strong>"But do I have your trust in return Fang?"</strong> his eyes had something very hard and serious about them, also one of the things people saw the younger form of the old emperor in his eyes. The young emperor then waited for the ministers respone, he wanted to trust the man because he had been around for so long.&nbsp; <br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MzNurse</strong> on <strong>26-02-2010, 14:13:37</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/ee/Midori.jpg)<br><br>Midori looked at her father in absolute shock. Who was this man?&nbsp; And what had he done with her father? All of her life she had worked hard to win his attention, to prove her worth to him, to make him notice that she was even alive. He hadn't seemed to notice at all. At sixteen, she was the youngest ever to achieve her rank of Squadron Leader, and felt more respect from the men she fought with than she did from this man who suddenly held her close and called her daughter.<br><br>Speechless for a few moments, she managed to find her voice. "Father, please..." she suddenly found herself trying not to beg.&nbsp; "Is there no way out of this?&nbsp; This marriage will be a complete farce. From the way things look, it may not even be consummated." Her breatch hitched and she blinked back tears. "Plase, Father.&nbsp; Please do not force me into this."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nadir</strong> on <strong>27-02-2010, 03:19:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/0/04/FengBao.jpg)</div><br>Though it was happening right in front of him, the discussion between the two emperors felt like it was a hundred miles from Feng. He felt adrift, utterly useless. Why had he asked to stay? Tai was a match for the foreign emperor - and he was taking his surprise bride in his stride... though with a father like the old emperor it didn't surprise him that Tai could take such life-changing events without blinking. <br><br>Feng glanced at the emperor boldly before dropping his gaze again, not out of fear or reverence as such a low lord should show - but a cautious respect like that one would have for a wild boar. The man was powerful and therefore dangerous - though both Feng and Tai had survived one three times as worse... though not unhurt. The man and his daughter broke away, and Tai summoned his wayward minister.<br><br>Seeing the man kneel almost made Feng smirk, though his facial features stayed smooth. It gave him a vicious pleasure seeing the older man bow and scrape for Tai. He stayed silent, not offering a single word where his free-moving tongue might make Tai seem weaker. Sometimes it felt like silence was his mothertongue, taught to him more forcefully and thoroughly than the several dialects of the Empire. He rarely spoke to Tai in public, though in a venue such as this he dared to be bold - until the invasion of their ally. <br><br>A thought slid through his head that made his breath catch. Would the woman - Tai's wife-to-be - would she put an end to the friendship that had survived decades? Her power would be second only to Tai's. If she took a disliking for him, how long would it take her to turn Tai's head? He knew well how women could plot. If her own flesh couldn't tempt him, surely she would worth through other means. She would gift him with some toy, some beauty that would ensnare him. She would use it as a bit to bridal his friend with. <br><br>He downed the rest of his wine in a vulgar, common gulp and beckoned for more, wishing he could return to his room and light his pipe rather than have to witness Tai's marriage. His own was vile enough, but this was sure to be even more repulsive. He didn't dare look at his friend, fixing his gaze on his new goblet of wine.&nbsp; &nbsp;
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Doomsday</strong> on <strong>28-02-2010, 12:53:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Shun Hideyoshi</strong><br><br>(http://sengoku-database.tripod.com/avatar/odanobunaga.jpg)</div><br>Though he had given her a rare moment of tenderness, Hideyoshi was not about to concede to his daughter's wish to break off her betrothal to Shun Tai. It was a shame, because neither Midori nor the Western Emperor really wanted the marriage; he could tell by hearing his daughter's pleas, and by seeing the surprise and reservation in Shun Tai's face. But there was too much riding on all of this; peace between their kingdoms, most importantly, because bad blood between Hideyoshi's and Shun Tai's people still lingered, and if no marriage was made here, thre would be angry, violent people to deal with. Hideyoshi was prepared to grind his opponents to dust, but he had a feeling Shun Tai would be too tender with the rebellious and would become a weaker ally afterwords. Besides that, Hideyoshi had given Emperor Bue, a man he had respected, his word that their two children would be wed and jointly rule over the Western Empire. That was another motive for Hideyoshi to keep the marriage in place, of course; An ally in Tai's court would be invaluable, in case Lao Fang did not prove to be trustworthy in the end.<br><br>He put one rough hand to her face, brushing her tears away with his thumb. "I could stop the wedding for you. But don't you see, my daughter? There are too many things at stake here to be vain about marrying that man," he said the last two words with a little disdain. No real man would be hesitant about marrying his beautiful, talented daughter. "I hope you would not ask me about it again," he concluded, and took a step back from her. He looked at his daughter for a long moment, as if weighing some unspoken argument, before he finally shook his head.<br><br>"I am sure that you will find happiness in your marriage. He seems to be a noble man, one who would treat you with respect. Now, you should go speak with Shun Tai yourself. I will see about getting us settled in here."<br><br><hr><br><div align="center"><strong>Lǎo Fáng (老防)</strong><br><br>(http://kongming.net/11/i/p/port_lg/Created-Male-091.jpg)</div><br>Lao Fang looked up to the Emperor, not sure how to answer. He had never lied to the man about the matter... But he had not told the younger man everything. "Yes, I was aware of the Emperor's coming. I was there to greet him, wasn't I? I deigned not to tell you because I thought you would not wish to receive them. But it was your father who had wrote the contract of betrothal between you and Shun Midori, and now the heavens ordain it. Forgive me for not telling you, but I felt I was doing the right thing." Of course, Lao Fang didn't believe in a higher power; What you accomplished as a mortal was all that mattered, and Lao Fang had great ambitions designed for his life on earth.<br><br>"I am glad that you trust me; It is very benevolent of you to do so, after leaving you in the dark about this. Your trust is, of course, reciprocated. There are no more curious surprises lingering over your shoulder; Something like this will not happen again. And that is the truth." He could feel Feng's eyes on his face, but he forced himself to not return the scathing look. It wasn't much of a secret to the Emperor or his court that Lao Fang and Feng Bao did not trust each other, and that was putting it delicately. Short of murder, there was nothing that Feng Bao could do to fall out of the Emperor's trust, and Lao Fang was forced to suffer the man's scathing rudeness towards Fang's office.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NekoBoy89</strong> on <strong>28-02-2010, 13:45:24</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/a/a6/Tai.jpg)<br><br><em>"Yes, I was aware of the Emperor's coming. I was there to greet him, wasn't I? I deigned not to tell you because I thought you would not wish to receive them. But it was your father who had wrote the contract of betrothal between you and Shun Midori, and now the heavens ordain it. Forgive me for not telling you, but I felt I was doing the right thing."</em><br><br>Emperor Tai's face became more serious then before as the man was talking, his features became less amused and more towards irritated anger. He took a deep breath and forced himself to remain calm and collected, no use losing his head at this time. <strong>"Doing the right thing? Are your thoughts that low about me that you do not think I would honor the wish of my own father?"</strong> he asked back and it was clear that the minister had pushed a rather sore spot with his words. <br><br><strong>"You think that just walking in here with a person I did not have any idea was going to come is such a good idea? If I was my father you know what he would have done about your action just now."</strong> it was not hard to remember that the former Emperor always was easily angered and he never made a secret to use his powers as he wanted without really caring much what other people was thinking. Tai sighed a little and shook his head. <strong>"But what's done is done."</strong> he commented. <br><br><em>"I am glad that you trust me; It is very benevolent of you to do so, after leaving you in the dark about this. Your trust is, of course, reciprocated. There are no more curious surprises lingering over your shoulder; Something like this will not happen again. And that is the truth."</em><br><br>The young emperor nodded a little, but he made sure to keep a close eye on the man's face. He wanted to be sure that Fang did not lie to him about anything else. <strong>"I am not my father and I can forgive something done with good intentions. But remember that I wont forgive again if you go behind my back with something this important. A royal visitor is on the top of the things I have to be told at all times, what if the good emperor and his child would have been killed without me having any knowledge they was going to be in my kingdom?"</strong> he gave the armrest a small tap with his index finger. <strong>"But now let's forget about these horrible business and enjoy the festival, I have a small surprise for everyone."</strong> he smiled a little. <br><br>Tai then looked to the friend next to his Throne, he examined him but did not say anything before he looked out on the chamber and all the guests drinking and chatting. It was clear that Feng did not like the idea of this marriage either, but he if anyone should know that it was something Tai had to do. It was his duty as emperor to make sure his line was the once sitting on the throne. <strong>"Feng"</strong> he said and reached out to give his friend a small pat on the arm. He smiled a little at him. <strong>"It's okay, trust me"</strong> he sounded serious when he said this. <br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nadir</strong> on <strong>28-02-2010, 19:27:04</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/0/04/FengBao.jpg)</div><br>As the politician simpered and used his words to squirm out of a public and humiliating punishment he greatly deserved, Feng glanced at him now and then, unable to keep an unbroken gaze for fear he might do something idiotic. Like waste good wine by dashing it in the bastard's face...<br><br>He sipped the liquid, the comforting bloom of warmth from his first and rather hastily downed goblet spreading through him. Tai berated Lǎo but seemed happy with leaving it at just words. Tai didn't have his father's ire - or, rather, the deep bred aggression that had goaded the dead man to act under his anger's influence. It was always something Feng had been grateful for, but sometimes Tai could have done with a show of power. If Lǎo had feared Tai's retribution, he would not have gone behind Tai's back... but he was not about to criticise his friend doing what he was born to do. <br><br><em>"Feng. It's okay, trust me."</em><br><br>Feng looked at his emperor and turned his back on the minister so he could drop his courtly mask and smile back. "Don't teach your grandmother how to suck eggs, Tai." The teasing words were said in the same calm seriousness of Tai's own words.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; <br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MzNurse</strong> on <strong>01-03-2010, 02:16:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/ee/Midori.jpg)<br><br>She nodded at her father's words, knowing any further argument would be useless. She did not want to marry this man, but her people were depending on her.&nbsp; She would do this for them, and for no one else. She stifled her tears, wiped her face clean, and pulled herself to her full height, tiny as that was. Once under control, she stepped into the hall and found her way back to the throne room. <br><br>"Shun Tai," she adressed him quietly, bowing in respect but refusing to call him 'Master'. "My father has graciously consented to wait the full four days for the wedding." She hesitated a bit before continuing. "Do you require me to stay at your side this night?" she asked hesitantly. "It has been a long journey..."<br><br>(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/8/86/Ethan.jpg)<br><br>Ethan knew exactly who would make the best maidservant for the Princess. Sumi (http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/2/2a/Sumi.jpg) had been a gift to Emperor Bue during the peace talks with Shun Hideyoshi, and spoke the native tongue of the Princess. Ethan had taken her under his wing, so to speak, when he realized that she didn't speak the language. He'd looked over her and taught her the words, remembering himself what it was like to be sold off to someplace where you understood no one and no one understood you.<br><br>Ethan hurried through the corridors to the kitchens, pulled Sumi aside, and quickly explained the situation. Sumi blinked at him a few times. "Princess Midori?" she asked with the same lilting accent as the woman she asked about. "Here? To marry to Shun Tai?" She wanted to make sure she had this right. Even after six years, she was sometimes unsure if she had the words right.<br><br>"Yes," Ethan confirmed. "And she didn't bring a personal maid. That will be you. She'll want someone she can talk to, someone who knows her ways and her language. Come on..." He didn't give her a choice. He grabbed her hand and pulled her along behind him. Sumi quickly untied the soiled kitchen apron and tossed it aside as they made their way out of the kitchen. Because it was Ethan and it seemed an urgent matter, nobody in the kitchen questioned them.<br><br>Ethan returned to the throne room, Sumi in tow, shortly after Midori. Sumi fell to her knees, face to the floor, as soon as she approached the throne. Ethan waited respectfully until Midori finished speaking. "Master Tai," he whispered quietly, knowing that Midori could hear as well. "This is Sumi, the maid you requested for Princess Midori." 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NekoBoy89</strong> on <strong>01-03-2010, 09:39:51</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/a/a6/Tai.jpg)<br><br><em>"Shun Tai,""My father has graciously consented to wait the full four days for the wedding." She hesitated a bit before continuing. "Do you require me to stay at your side this night?""It has been a long journey..."</em><br><br>The young emperor's eyes had been focused onto Feng, he raised one eyebrow to the different choice of words the friend was using. But he did not have any time to comment before the young woman that was going to be his wife returned to the chamber. He watched her as she came closer and then greeted him with his name and a respectful gesture, he smiled a little and did not talk before the lady was done talking. <strong>"It is welcome change that the good emperor changed his mind, it was a rather quick idea of him."</strong> Tai said slowly and made a little pause before he continued. <br><br><strong>"No I do not require that you stay with me unless that is your wish milady, your not my wife yet. Your still your fathers child until our wedding"</strong> he examined her for a few seconds. <strong>"You must be tired, my servant have gone to get you a maid. I am sure you will get one of our best."</strong> He was not sure what Ethan was having in mind for a servant, but he just hoped he would pick someone good. He had captured the small glance of Ethan when the boy came back with a young lady, he remembered her rather well actually. She was a nice girl and it seemed like Ethan liked her, it could be a good choice actually. <br><br><em>"Master Tai," he whispered quietly, knowing that Midori could hear as well. "This is Sumi, the maid you requested for Princess Midori."</em><br><br>Shun Tai listened to the boy when he was talking, his eyes slowly looked to the girl on the floor and then he looked at Midori. After that to Ethan again. <strong>"Yes it seems like you did a good job in finding the maid I requested"</strong> he had a slightly more serious voice when he said that one I word. After all Ethan had pretty much been running away to get a maid without Tai's agreement. He could not say anything when the wife was present, but he was sure that Ethan got the message. He was in a little trouble, nothing tooo serious. <br><br>The emperor then looked to the girl on the floor again. <em>"You can stand up Sumi, let your emperor see you better"</em> he said calmly and waited for the girl to be on her feet before he turned to his in a few days to be wife. <strong>"I hope you accept this servant as your personal maid, see it as a early wedding gift from your husband"</strong> he told her. <strong>"You and your father will both get two of our best guestrooms these days before the wedding. I would also want to have a word with you milady, but there is no hurry with that. You might no know but today we are celebrating five years of peace with the other kingdoms, your more then welcome to sit down and have something to eat before going to your chambers for the night"</strong><br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Doomsday</strong> on <strong>01-03-2010, 11:44:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center"><strong>Lǎo Fáng (老防)</strong><br><br>(http://kongming.net/11/i/p/port_lg/Created-Male-091.jpg)</div><br>Lao Fang took his humiliation without words, as he knew he deserved the scolding he had gotten. If it had been Emperor Bue sitting in that seat, Fang would have found himself being caned across the back at the very least. He could even imagine it now, could foresee the irony of having himself caned with his own walking stick... Thank the gods the old Emperor was dead, Fang thought wryly to himself.<br><br>"I am unworthy of your forgiveness, but I am glad it was given," Fang responded when the younger man had finally ceased to speak, and he reached for his cane, slowly lifting himself to his feet. He had not been quick enough; When the princess returned to the court room, he was still wobbling to regain his balance, and probably appeared to a weak-kneed fool to her, which made him flush with more humiliation than any words the emperor could say. If she were unattractive, that might not be the case... But there was something wild and alluring that tempted Lao Fang and made him look at Shun Midori with such guarded curiosity and eagerness. He wanted to possess her and make her his own creature... Even though she was nearly half of his age, it made him jealous that Shun Tai was intended to marry her even though the two of them obviously felt no feelings for each other and might not share each other's bed.<br><br>Fang could have smirked if he were not playing the part of the humbled and berated minister. He anticipated warming the soon-to-be-Empress's bed, late at night, sometime in the future... If the emperor, who was held to a God's standard, could be so promiscuous, why could not the loyal prime minister too? "Milady," he greeted to her, bowing his head. He moved past them, intending to return to his quarters for a private meal... He was not too fond of these social gatherings. As he moved towards the hallway though, he saw the slave boy, Ethan, with the Eastern handmaiden at his side. Ahh, a delicate little irony. Lao Fang had enjoyed her many times before, though it had been some time since his last. It was much more fun when she could not speak a word of his own language... Then, the slave boy had taught her the Western tongue, and from then on Ethan had began to give Lao Fang shrewd and openly suspicious looks. He imagined that Sumi, at least that was what Lao Fang thought her name was, must have told the little blond man everything about what he had done to her.<br><br>With one final smirk, one he wore right on his face, he turned and left the party, intending to satiate his hunger alone.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MzNurse</strong> on <strong>05-03-2010, 02:36:26</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/8/86/Ethan.jpg)<br>Ethan bit his lip and sat quietly on his pillow. Master Tai was disappointed in him, and Ethan always hated that. He didn't regret what he'd done.&nbsp; He'd needed out, away, or things would have been much worse. <br><br>Sumi (http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/2/2a/Sumi.jpg) was shaking as she slowly stood as commanded. She pulled herself to her full height, taller than Midori but still short, but kept her eyes lowered in respect. She waited patiently, nervously, for her next orders.<br><br>(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/ee/Midori.jpg)<br>Midori caught the odd inflection in Shun Tai's voice, and the reaction it caused in Ethan. She wondered what the exchange meant, but put that to the back of her mind until later. She smiled softly at the nervous Sumi, then bowed again to her betrothed. "I thank you much for the gift, Shun Tai," she told him. "If you will excuse me, I believe I will change out of my traveling clothes and into something more appropriate to a celebration of peace."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NekoBoy89</strong> on <strong>05-03-2010, 08:46:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/a/a6/Tai.jpg)<br><br>Tai listened to the woman when she was talking, the emperor gave a small nod when she was done. <strong>"Of course you are free to change your clothes"</strong> he said with a polite gesture towards the doors. <strong>"Sumi will show you the way and aid you, show her highness to the questrooms in the best part of the palace."</strong> as he said these words his eyes looked back to the servant girl and he nodded a little to her. But he returned the eyes to his to be wife a few moments later. <strong>"I am sure you will find them to your liking milady"</strong> he added. <br><br>When the princess left with her servant Tai would casually placed his hand on Ethan's shoulder and pull him so that he was going to lean a little againt the throne between the emperors legs. <strong>"What an evening"</strong> he commented softly and his hand moved to carress the boys blond hair, fingers going thought it in slow motions. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MzNurse</strong> on <strong>17-03-2010, 16:13:02</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/8/86/Ethan.jpg)<br>The feel of Tai's fingers in his hair was soothing, but he didn't doubt that he was in trouble.&nbsp; Master Tai would speak to him about that in private, though, later. In the meantime, Ethan would relax as much as possible and enjoy this closeness. "Yes, Master," he agreed quietly. "Much has happened this night. I fear nothing will ever be the same again."&nbsp; He couldn't help the apprehension in his voice. He truly hoped Sumi would be able to convince the new Mistress not to sell him off, but the possiblity was strong and he knew it.&nbsp; Just the thought made him tremble a little. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NekoBoy89</strong> on <strong>17-03-2010, 16:43:52</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/a/a6/Tai.jpg)<br><br>Tai made a low humming sound to the servants words, he continued to move his hand thought the blond hair for a few minutes and it was calming to do it. The emperor then shook his head and turned the eyes towards Ethan, he examined him in silence and then he reached down to grasp the boys chin and force him to look up at his master. <strong>"What's the matter my pet"</strong> he asked slowly and meet those blue eyes with his own dark once. He examined them closely for a few moment and then he sighed a little. <strong>"I think I need to comfort you tonight as well as teaching you a lesson"</strong> he whispered and moved the hand to the cheek. <strong>"Besides change is not always such a bad thing Ethan, it can be something good to."</strong><br><br>He thought for a few moment and then he nodded a little and gestured to a servant. <strong>"Make a bath ready in my chambers, hot water and add some of the rode oil"</strong> he ordered and the servant nodded a little and quickly left to do the order. After all filling water in the masters bathroom was not a fast task and it would take two hours if not more. As why Tai always made sure to order the bath a few hours earlier. <strong>"so...you me and Feng is going to take a bath before bed. Will help my little pet relax, I am still unmarried for four more days...let's make the best of them shall we?"</strong> he smirked a little as he said this and the eyes turned towards Feng. <strong>"right?"</strong> he asked him to. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Nadir</strong> on <strong>17-03-2010, 17:05:58</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				<div align="center">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/0/04/FengBao.jpg)</div><br>Feng's eyebrows lifted slightly and he let his lip curve upwards in a small show of amusement. "A bath. My my, you certainly know how to let youself loose, Tai. You will set all the tongue of the gossips wagging," he teased quietly so only the emperor and the slave could hear. His face losed expression again as he looked away from his friend, to Ethan, head tilting ever so slightly. "If you still desire my presence, I'll be there." For all he was looking at the boy, he was still addressing Tai. His gaze turned out to look over the gathering again. "I would understand if you would rather spend the time with your pets." His words held no malice, nor resentment. There was, however, the slightest hint of regret, as if he hadn't wanted to say it.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MzNurse</strong> on <strong>20-04-2010, 03:59:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/ee/Midori.jpg)<br>Midori entered the great hall, dressed in an outfit suitable for the occasion. Sumi followed behind, a soft smile on her face, enjoying her new position.&nbsp; She bowed again to her betrothed. "My father sends his regrets," she told him softly. "He will not be able to stay for the wedding after all. It seems there is trouble along our...his...northern border, and he had to leave immediately to quell it." She bit her lip before continuing. "I told him I would explain the situation to you, my Lord."<br><br>(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/8/86/Ethan.jpg)<br>Ethan leaned into the hand that gently stroked his cheek and smiled. "Yes," he agreed. "Four more days." The smile on his lips didn't touch the sadness in his eyes. He turned to Master Feng, blinking the tears from his eyes as quickly as possible. He reapplied the smile to his face and looked up at his master's best friend.&nbsp; "Please, Master Feng, allow me to bathe you tonight.&nbsp; I'm sure you'll find it quite enjoyable."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NekoBoy89</strong> on <strong>21-04-2010, 13:40:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Tai chuckled softly to the friend words when he talked, he then gave him a small path on the arm. <strong>"Well you if anyone should know me, this is a day for happy events and joy. I am not one to say no to taking part in those events....after all I am so busy the other days with the duties of the kingdom. You can say that this day is one of the few when I can really let myself go"</strong> he grinned a little, but of course he did not forget the fact that he still was going to be married withing four days. But he was not going to let anyone force Ethan away from him, after all he was still the emperor and would be even after he was married to the girl. He sighed softly and looked out at the guests for a moment, then to the friend again. <strong>"Do not be silly, you are my best friend and of course I want you to be there. Smile and be happy, sit down and have something to eat and drink. We still have my surprise to look forward to"</strong> he grinned a little when he told this, it was easy to know he was having something special in mind. <br><br>His focused then returned to the blond boy and he softly gave his cheek another stoke with the fingers. <strong>"You have my word, you are mine and will always be mine...I wont let you go or let anyone else take you from me"</strong> he whispered lowly and then gave the boy a small...gentle kiss on the cheek. He was honest and he would fight all he could if he had to, no more then he could. <strong>"I want you to be happy on this day my pet."</strong> he swallowed a little and then he heard the sound when the princess and her maid arrived to the chamber. He casually looked at her and smiled a little. He listened to her words and nodded to show that he understood them. <strong>"It saddens me to hear such news, but I understand. I wish him luck on the way back to his kingdom and that the problems will be solved in peace"</strong> he told her and then he paused for a few seconds. <strong>"Do not look so worried my dear, you are to be my wife....sit down and join the feast. The midnight hours grows near and I have a special present to all my people and now my wife to be"</strong> he gestured to the chair that had once been put out for her father to use, now she could use that one. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MzNurse</strong> on <strong>29-04-2010, 04:10:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/e/ee/Midori.jpg)<br>(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/8/86/Ethan.jpg)<br><br>Midori had pretended not to notice the look in Tai's eyes, or the gentle caresses he laid on the boy's cheek. She nodded as her betrothed bid her have a seat,&nbsp; and dutifully took the chair that had been her father's.&nbsp; She didn't have a choice but to bear this shame. This would be her husband, regardless of her feelings on the matter. Sumi sat on the floor directly in front of Midori's chair, and Midori almost giggled again. She couldn't help it. Midori had to be at least five years younger than her maid, and it felt odd to tell the other woman what to do.&nbsp; <br><br>Ethan smiled up at Tai, his feelings shining brightly in his blue eyes. He loved his master, beyond his own life, and the thought of them being seperated terrified him. He looked over at Midori, his smile fleeing&nbsp; from his face. His relationship with Tai disgusted her, he could tell, but he wasn't ready to end it. Married or not, Tai was his. And always would be. Midori would just have to deal with it.&nbsp; He could almost feel sorry for her. Almost.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NekoBoy89</strong> on <strong>29-04-2010, 08:33:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Tai was a cheerful character and that was something his wife to be would notice very quickly, he had no problem talking to her and actually did seem to find an interest in getting to know her a little better. He asked questions about her past and asked her to tell a little about herself. But he to could not really miss the look she gave Ethan, but the emperor did not mind that since his people knew he was not much unlike his father in the ways of lovers. But he was far from the same man he had been, he was not cruel or wicked. <strong>"So do you have any siblings my dear?"</strong> he asked slowly and examined the girl with his calm eyes. He was good with words and could cause most people to like him just by talking, he was holding a golden goblet and drank from it a little now and then. He glanced to the window and then to a servant to the side of the room, he nodded a little and the servant quickly left the chamber. It was time to start things off.<br><br>It had gone around 20 minutes before the servant returned and nodded to his emperor, the young man nodded back and then he turned the attention to his wife to be. <strong>"It is about to begin, join me at the balcony will you?"</strong> he slowly stood up from his throne and offered his arm to her, he also looked to Ethan and raised his arm so that the boy could stand there with the emperors arm over his shoulders. <strong>"It will be something very special"</strong> he added with a mysterious smile on his face. Yeah this was going to be more then special. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>MzNurse</strong> on <strong>02-05-2010, 02:14:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Yes," Midori replied. "A younger brother..." <em>The son my father wanted when I was born</em> she thought bitterly. She smiled Tai.&nbsp; He was a pleasant man and he was doing his best to make an unwanted bride feel welcome. She felt her nervousness melt a little, and began to relax. When midnight approached, she took&nbsp; his hand, frowning a little when he extended his other arm and a beaming Ethan slid underneath it. She tensed a little at the site, then reminded herself that they weren't married yet and relaxed again.&nbsp; She would discuss Ethan after they were married.<br><br>In the meantime, she followed this man who was to be her husband wherever he chose to lead her.&nbsp; She really had no choice in the matter.&nbsp; She did, however, motion for Sumi to follow.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Imperial Intrigues, Base thread</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>NekoBoy89</strong> on <strong>02-05-2010, 02:41:46</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Tai nodded a little towards his friend to come along to, of course if he was feeling like it. Then he casually walked across the floor with his bride to be and the pet, he smiled to himself and came to a halt as he glanced to one of the large windows. The young emperor was still for a few seconds and then he nodded and continued to walk, the little group soon arrived to a large balcony. Tao walked over the the edge and leaned against the railing, looking down at his kingdom and the city below the castle, the people was celebrating down there. The young man could not help but smile as he watched the lights, the people he loved so much was all down there. All of them was out there in his kingdom, he knew he had to be strong for them. <strong>"Beautiful is it not, my kingdom."</strong> he commented slowly and glanced first to Ethan and then to Midori. <br><br><strong>"Well it should be about...now"</strong> he looked towards the lake outside of the town itself, the seconds passed and then the first firework moved up into the sky and exploded in a cascade of colors. Soon after more of them joined in, creating all kinds of shapes and symbols in the air, colors like gold, red and blue was common, but also less common colors like purple, green and orange. Tai watched the little show in silence, from time to time the lights of the fireworks lightened up his face. He was in all a very handsome man, both for males and female. The smile grew into a happy grin and he nodded, yeah this was going to be a firework unlike anything before. He also hoped that many people in the kingdom could see it from afar, now that would show them all how much he loved his people. It all ended after around ten minutes and the lake once again returned to darkness. <strong>"So what did you think?"</strong> he asked both the others, he also noticed that most of the guests had joined them outside to watch the show. 
			</dd>
		</dl>
		<div id="footer" class="smalltext">
			
			<span class="smalltext" style="display: inline; visibility: visible; font-family: Verdana, Arial, sans-serif;"><a href="https://elliquiy.com/forums/index.php?action=credits" title="Simple Machines Forum" target="_blank" class="new_win">SMF 2.0.19</a> |
 <a href="https://www.simplemachines.org/about/smf/license.php" title="License" target="_blank" class="new_win">SMF © 2021</a>, <a href="https://www.simplemachines.org" title="Simple Machines" target="_blank" class="new_win">Simple Machines</a>
			</span>
		</div>