Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic & Caeli]
<h1 id="title">Elliquiy Role Playing Forums</h1>
		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Human Solos =&gt; Topic started by: Caeli on 05-01-2009, 04:08:06</h2>
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				Title: <strong>Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>05-01-2009, 04:08:06</strong>
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				<div class="floatleft">(http://elliquiy.com/elluiki/images/3/3c/Meiling.png)</div><em><strong>Prologue</strong><br><br>The year is 1649, and in the five years since the Manchu invaded the Middle Kingdom and proclaimed themselves the rulers of China, Ming loyalist movements have only grown more resolute in their intentions, resentful of the barbarian presence within the golden walls of the Forbidden City.<br><br>Outwardly, most of the nobility has shown no signs of resistance, and if they have, were summarily routed by Qing soldiers who had no wish to see a rebellion rise up against them. Secretly, and behind closed doors, the Ming loyalist movements yet grow: gathering followers, trading news and gossip, training secretly for the day when the remaining Ming forces could overthrow the barbarian Manchus and reclaim the Mandate of Heaven.<br><br>The Zhang siblings are one such family.<br><br>The elder brother, Zhang Li, is an active underground supporter of the Ming loyalist movement, and has in the past months become more aware of Qing efforts to hunt down the leaders of the loyalist movement. Not sure that the security of their estate and the prestige of his lineage can keep him safe, Zhang Li decides to send his sister, Zhang Meiling, to a friend of his in Guangdong, also an active supporter of the underground Ming rebellion.<br><br>No wilting lily, Meiling reluctantly goes along with his plans - but puts her foot down when he insists that she travel with a train of attendants and soldiers for protection. As a compromise, he hosts a martial arts tournament on his estate, the winner of which will become the sole protector of his sister when she travels to Guangdong.<br><br>However, neither know that they are the sole descendants to a powerful female Daoist sorceress, who 1000 years past, was responsible for the sealing away of an evil demon king. However, the magic only carries down the female line, so while Zhang Li is of the sorceress' bloodline, he is but a passive carrier; it is his sister, Meiling, whose blood is a delectable treat for demons and their evil minions. 1000 years later, the seals are weakening, and the demon king has sent out his evil...<br><br>And he seeks the blood of the woman who locked him away for an entire millennium.</em>
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				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>07-01-2009, 10:59:51</strong>
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				The lovely sloping roofs of their garden's covered walkways were a burnt crimson color, freshly and recently repainted in preparation for this day's many visitors. The serene pond was, as usual, filled with golden and white koi fish, darting about in the clear water to hide beneath the water rushes and large, bright green lily pads scattered about the water. The still ponds reflected a bright blue sky with lazy, wispy clouds; and as was the summer's wont, the air was hot, stuffy, and wet. It was not as bad as usual, though; just this night past a thunderstorm had interrupted their peaceful night, the rain a loud, heavy shower that sent fish scattering to hide underneath the raised walkways, and kept servants walking as little possible between the buildings of the Zhang estate.<br><br>Beyond the large, expansive garden was the main house. It was large, airy, and resplendent with subtly rich furnishings. Silken tapestries decorated the walls in choice areas, and rich brocades and embroideries covered the dark, lacquered wood furniture that sat in every room. In the Zhang's audience room, there was a shelf that separated the side room from the rest of the hall; the shelf itself was unremarkable, as were the individual pieces, but as an entire collection... the colors blended well, obviously placed to match. <br><br>For all that only Zhang Li and his younger sister lived on the estate, the furnishings and decorations were rich and warm, well-cared for and appreciated by its owners. The servants might not have been as well paid as those who served other officials and courtiers, but they had served the Zhang family for generations, and respected in the utmost the elder brother's steadfast care of his sister when their parents passed away. And he had grown into a respectable official, well known for his honor and impartiality and wise beyond his youthful years; in the meanwhile, his sister had blossomed into a lovely young woman, if a bit more tomboyish than most females her age usually became. So the servants served the two loyally, looking after old Master Zhang's precious son and daughter, who had had the utter misfortune to live to see their parents buried before them.<br><br>Zhang Li stood proudly on the pavilion that overlooked their expansive gardens, where his tournament would be taking place. He looked dignified and sharp, the very image of a royal courtier... in his sister's eyes, regal and fitting of his title as an official of the Imperial Court. Any of the participants waiting their turn below would agree that the gardens were ornamented impressively for this tournament, organized by Zhang Li; many of them would also likely agree that the Zhang brother looked quite impressive in his well-fitting silks. However, it was the Zhang sister who drew their eyes on this day, resplendent in silken finery and delicately tooled hair ornaments.<br><br>Meiling had, for once, acquiesced to her brother's insistent request for her to at least make herself mildly presentable, even going so far as to allow her personal maids to do up her long hair. She almost wished she hadn't, especially when she realized that he wanted her present for the entirety of his martial arts tournament. He had been delighted, giving her a wide smile when he had seen her this morning; his affectionate gaze had been without its usual ruefulness, which he favored her with often when she returned with her clothes soiled and cheeks pink from riding wildly or fishing in the nearby river.<br><br>Had it been any other tournament, she would have been delighted, and borne the discomfort of her many garments and inconvenient headgear without a word of protest... but Li's tournament had her for a prize this time. Or at least, the prize of accompanying her across the country.<br><br>But any of the servants present, and any of the many contestants waiting their turn, would have agreed that Zhang Meiling did, indeed, live up to her reputation as a striking beauty. She was, perhaps, leaner than the current trend desired in women - but that leanness was thanks to her athleticism, and lent her every movement an air of cat-like elegance. She was tall and lithe, a young woman at the prime of her youth at twenty years of age. Despite her tomboyish attitude, she had the figure of a woman, with slim and firm curves that suited her willowy body. And, dressed in silks of peacock-blue and white, delicate flowers made of blue and red gems securing her long locks, Zhang Meiling was the image of feminine beauty. Many of the contestants eyed her appreciatively, noting how her silken garments outlined her delicate-looking body... how beautiful she appeared.<br><br>"Meiling... stop scowling." The low voice cut through her thoughts and she shot her brother a glare for his interruption.<br><br>She was a most attractive young Han woman - when she wasn't scowling or shooting childish glares at her elder sibling.<br><br>Meiling was bored and uninterested in the tournament, and made no bones to pretend that she was, even for her brother's sake. "Brother, you know I could care less about this tournament... <em>you</em> are the one who insists that I can't take care of myself. It is not as if I am traveling into barbarian lands." She sighed, but stood as propriety dictated when he began his address to the assembled tournament participants. She listened vaguely, keeping her eyes veiled (as a lady should) and standing properly at her brother's side. He never harped on her to act more ladylike - but to bring a proud smile to his face, or a warm light in his eyes, Meiling would do almost anything to ease the burdens he had on his shoulders, working as a high official of the Imperial Court... and those burdens that she gave him too, of course.<br><br>She and her brother sat again when his attendant called for the first battle of the day to begin. Meiling cast a cursory glance over the opponents, seated to her and her brother's left in another pavilion that overlooked the large, rectangular stage in the middle of the garden. They were out of the worst of the heat, as the sun climbed to its zenith in the sky; still, with a brother as finely featured as Zhang Li, the men awaiting their turns in the tournament were of little note to her. Finding nobody of interest to keep her attention, Meiling allowed her attention to wander to the plum blossom tree blooming in their garden.<br><br>"Meiling, please remove that childish look from your face. You wouldn't take the retinue of guards, so I compromised with this tournament. You cannot possibly remain mad at me forever, sister." <br><br>When Li tried to get her attention again, she tried to keep herself impassive, to tell herself that she was mad at him for all but tricking her into wearing formal finery to this event - but it was difficult for her to stay mad at her beloved brother for long. He was, probably, her single greatest weakness in her life, and he well knew that. She turned back to him sulkily, a childish pout on her rosy lips, but her lovely brown eyes sparkled as she lifted her gaze. "You know that I could not dislike any martial arts tournament, even if its intent is to find me a bodyguard," she said softly, finally relenting and giving him a rueful smile. Yes, Li was too overprotective of her, and he often got in the way of her little mischiefs and efforts to be independent - but he was her brother, and they both knew that for all her trouble making and caterwauling, she loved him very much.<br><br>"How could I be anything but unhappy, when I am sitting in the garden with my busy older brother, admiring the flowers?" She giggled.<br><br>He smiled, his brow relaxing at her playful words. "You know quite well that you often interrupt my work for silly reasons, among them admiration of the flowers in our own garden. But I will thank you for your flattery." He accepted a tray of tea from one of their servants and placed it on the table between them. She accepted her teacup with a soft thank you, then turned her attention back to the tournament, where the attendant grabbed the winner's arm and announced his name to the gathered audience.<br><br>Sighing, Meiling tried not to slide down in her chair as she sipped her tea. Hopefully, there was some amazing warrior in the bunch who would was as skilled as he was knowledgeable. As much as she didn't want an entire army to escort her to Guangdong, it might be worse if she was forced to travel with a man who was illiterate and incapable of intelligent conversation.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>12-01-2009, 01:31:11</strong>
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				Tai Xiang stopped to run a hand over his well calloused foot, leaning against the trunk of a fallen tree. The past few days had seen many li pass beneath his feet, but he was content to travel where the wind blew him. As if in reply to his thought, a gust of wind brushed against him, causing his robes to billow slightly in its wake. With a smile he stood up again, gave a small bow, and continued walking.<br><br>A few minutes later, he slowed, turning as the sound of hoofbeats came to him. A pair of riders were approaching at a canter, but the drew rein as they neared him. "Ho, stranger." called the first, a bear of a man. He looked more like he should be carrying the horse, rather than the other way around. "Are you bound for the tournament at the house of Zhang Li?"<br><br>Before he could reply he felt again the brush of the wind. "I had not heard of it." he answered honestly, "But it sounds like it could be interesting. Where is it to be held, and when?"<br><br>"Today." replied the smaller of the two men, who sat with a horsemans easy grace on his mount. "The estate is another 3 or 4 li along this road. And we would have been there already if this walking mountain had not tried to eat every morsel of food in the inn when we rose."<br><br>The larger man laughed, his voice booming around them, and echoing off the nearby trees. "If the innkeeper had not set such a small plate, I would not have to send him back to fetch more."<br><br>"Only you could think an entire duck to be a small portion. At least you didn't eat the table itself in your hurry."<br><br>Tai Xiang smiled at the easy banter of the two. "If the tournament is soon to get under way, perhaps we should hurry." he said. "It would not be mannerly to be late."<br><br>"He has a point." agreed the horseman. <br><br>"We shall tell them not to start til you arrive." replied his companion, and the two kicked their horses into movement.<br><br>"You are most kind." Xiang called after them. "But that does not mean I will go easy on you, should we meet."<br><br>He heard their laughter floating back towards him, and grinned. Picking up his few meagre belongings he began to jog after them, moving at a pace that he knew he could sustain for hours. <em>Your horses may be quicker in the short run.</em> he thought <em>But at the end of the day, I believe I might just leave them floundering behind me.</em><br><br>Behind him, the wind gusted yet again, spurring him towards the tournament.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>14-01-2009, 13:14:20</strong>
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				The second pair had stepped onto the stage and had begun fighting. Despite her earlier resistance, Meiling couldn't help but watch with avid eyes - she'd always been a great fan of martial artists and warriors of the like of these men, who fought only for their ideals and lived with nothing more than their weapons and their clothing. Of course, Li always insisted that things were a little more complicated than that, and their lives were hardly as easy as his and Meiling's... but well, it was the thought that was romantic. Even if things didn't happen like they did in old historical epics, it was nice to think that such people, whose golden values were virtue and honor, still existed today.<br><br>Out of the corner of her eye, Meiling saw a servant approach her brother. She craned her head to listen, but a particularly intricate sword-dance from one of the competitors drew her eye, and she gasped as the tall, slim warrior disarmed his opponent with ease, ending his flurry of parries and strikes with a kick that sent the other man flying.<br><br>It really was too bad every day couldn't be like this. As it was, Li complained that she was wholly too tomboyish for her own good... enjoying the reading of classics and philosophy, of books on war and tactics, preferring riding and archery to embroidery and painting... but Meiling was hardly one to conform to anybody's expectations of her, even that of her brother's. She would be as proper as the honor of their family name required, and would otherwise do what she wanted.<br><br>After dismissing the servants, Li sat back in his seat speculatively.<br><br>"What is it, brother?" Meiling finally asked curiously.<br><br>"Two warriors just arrived from a nearby town. Apparently, there had been some trouble this morning, but they rushed here as quickly as they could. They also said that a third warrior was liking to join the competition, so we'll be seeing a few more faces as the morning draws on. He'll be at a disadvantage, though - no chance to warm up, and he won't be able to see the other contestants' fighting abilities," Li mused. Meiling sniffed and sat back in her seat. "You say that as if everybody would need to see their competition to beat them. I'm quite certain if this man is not worried about being late, then he shouldn't require a peek at his competition to be able to beat them," she sniffed.<br><br>Li grinned, but said nothing to that. Meiling was still young and naive, after all. Still, it was no terrible thing to humor her naivete and innocence - he wouldn't have a chance to see her again for many months, perhaps years, while this underground rebellion continued.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>17-01-2009, 23:14:36</strong>
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				By the time Xiang arrived, the competition seemed to have already started, and he offered an apology to the scribe that was talking names. The rather harried looking individual simply waved him on. "Your opponent is over there." he said, pointing to a slightly swarthy looking man that was holding a pair of wind and fire wheels, and moving through a series of kata with them.<br><br>Xiang nodded his thanks, and walked across to where the other man stood, waiting politely close by til the other wu xia was finished. The two exchanged polite bows, and waited til one of the officials came to join them and watch the match.<br><br>"Do you have no weapon?" enquired the official, frowning slightly at Xiang. <br><br>"I do." he replied, "But I have taken an oath only to use it when someone is in danger. I am in no danger here, hence I do not wield it."<br><br>This got a look of surprise from both other men, who exchanged glances. "Very well." replied the official, "But I hope your vow does not end up costing you dear."<br><br>The two fighters settled into their stances, Xiang adopting, unsurprisingly, a defensive posture. At the officials call to begin, the other came on swiftly, his weapons slicing through the air, apparently determined to overcome Xiang in a rush. Xiang fell back from the first two slices, before stepping in to parry the third when it passed, pushing the man's right arm on and up so it all but obscured his eyes for a moment.<br><br>He dropped to the ground as the other blade came in in an arc that would have caught his stomach, rolling to the side and scissoring his legs to send his opponent to the ground. Rolling with the momentum of his throw, he came upright, sitting on the man's back, and pinning his leg awkwardly in a lock.<br><br>Xiang reached forwards, grabbing the man's hair and driving a tigers claw strike to the back of his neck, stopping it a hair's breadth from connecting. The judge signalled a win, and Xiang rolled backwards, releasing the leg lock from against his own body, then rose and offered a hand to the other warrior to help him back to his feet.<br><br>The man took it, shaking his head as he rose. "That's what I get for rushing in, eh?" he asked, dusting himself off. <br><br>Xiang nodded. "Wisdom found means a lesson is never wasted. And all this one cost you was a little pride. I wish you well in the rest of the competition."<br><br>"And you." replied the other, and the two turned to watch how the other matches were progressing.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>22-01-2009, 12:10:48</strong>
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				Meiling thanked a servant who refilled her teacup, her attention wandering as they waited for the next pair to take the main stage. The first portion of the tournament would allow Li to watch all of the fighters battle each other several times, and take away the element of random chance from a victory. She snapped her fan open and waved it idly in front of her face, giving her neck a pleasant, light breeze as she glanced around, noting how servants were scurrying about with refreshments and light foods for the participants. Most of the women were carrying trays of simple foods - nuts and fruits, as well as some rice crackers that were little more than items to settle the nerves before fighting.<br><br>The male servants officiated over the tournament, recording the results of each match on a scroll on the pavilion where Li and Meiling were seated. Meiling watched the people moving about for a while, already wanting to get on her feet and run around. At this time of day, she would normally be outside the estate walls, riding in the countryside and getting some fresh air. Or, if her brother had his way, she would be safely ensconced in a carriage while two guards handled the reins. Or even better, she would be quietly sipping tea in the library or the study while he worked.<br><br>Meiling nearly choked on her tea at the last thought.<br><br>To rid herself of that rather stale image (she couldn't imagine herself sitting quietly and doing anything, let alone while keeping her brother company and acting like a "lady"), Meiling stood and joined Li, who stood at the edge of their pavilion, his gaze intent on one of the pairs preparing for their match. She followed his line of sight - there was an unarmed man, and another who wielded a pair of weapons.<br><br>"Why do you watch them with such intent, brother?"<br><br>He frowned. "That man is choosing to fight with no weapon. He is either extremely confident in his own skill, or decidedly foolish in his arrogance."<br><br>At that moment, the match begun; and before Meiling could respond to her brother's observation, the match was over, with the other man on his stomach and his weaponless opponent kneeling on his back. Meiling blinked, surprised at the man's agility; Li nodded, satisfied.<br><br>"I'm sure that man will be someone to watch when the ladder tournament begins." He beckoned to Meiling, guiding her back to their seats and sitting as another pair approached the main pavilion. "He seems very promising, that one. I'm sure there will be someone you and I will both find suitable," he said with satisfaction. Meiling rolled her eyes, but said nothing, snapping her fan closed again and draining her tea cup.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>30-01-2009, 00:54:22</strong>
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				Xiang bowed as his next opponent approached, the older man returning the bow gracefully. The two settled into their respective stances and waited, facing each other, motionless. The scribe in charge looked at the two men, puzzled, opening his mouth to call louder that the bout had started, but stopped as another of the contestants lightly touched his arm, and shook his head.<br><br>A minute ticked by. Two. Three. Still neither had moved, or (it seemed) so much as blinked. And then they moved. It was as if they'd moved absolutely simultaneously, their muscles controlled by a single brain, and their hands and feet struck with a speed and power that drew noises of appreciation from those standing nearby.<br><br>The first flurry of movement was blocked, or dodged, but then a kick connected with Xiangs stomach. He'd seen it coming, but couldn't evade it, so instead moved into it, striking down with his right elbow an instant before the foot made contact. Those watching heard the sharp "Crack!" as his elbow hammered into the older man's thinly fleshed shin, and he grunted as the blow negated much of his kick's force. <br><br>Enough of it got through though to make the Xiang grunt in turn, but his expression didn't even flicker as his striking arm rebounded and straightened. His fist struck straight out for his opponents solar plexus, but his own arm came down to block. It deflected the strike, but while he was blocking that hand, Xiang's left hand came up in a vicious chop to the back of his still extended leg's knee. The knee bent sharply in reflexive response, and Xiang spun to his right on one foot while the other swept for his opponents right ankle.<br><br>The older man moved his head, snapping it out of the path of Xiang's blow even as an arm flew up to block, but his fist dropped instantly under the block and hammed his rib cage just as his scything foot found the others ankle. The man went down, deliberately throwing his weight towards Xiangs legs in a bid to take him down as well, and he almost succeeded. <br><br>He did manage to bring Xiang down, but he folded in a move so controlled it looked as if he'd wanted him to in the first place. Xiang's left arm shot out, snaking through his opponents left armpit from behind, then down to catch his wrist. He pivoted, and half turned away from the older man, jerking up on his wrist, straining his elbow backward and leaning hard to his left to force the other man over onto his right side. <br><br>That pinned that arm beneath him, and Xiang's own right hand flashed down in a chop that stopped dead the instant it touched the side of his exposed neck.<br><br>"Point." called the scribe, from the sidelines, and the two men rolled apart, coming up and bowing respectfully to each other.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>12-02-2009, 00:49:44</strong>
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				"Amazing..."<br><br>The soft words were out of Meiling's mouth before she even realized that she had thought it. Watching the two weaponless warriors was like watching some complex dance, but so much more deadly... and so graceful, despite the intent behind each kick, behind each twist of the body. <em>And perhaps not so weaponless</em>, Meiling thought - both warriors used their limbs as weapons in their own right. Meiling had seen her brother sparring similarly with their martial arts master before, but it had more been an exercise in self defense, if he ever lost his weapon in combat.<br><br>Not so, these two. Truly, their limbs were as much a weapon as any blade.<br><br>Li glanced over at her, but he agreed with her sentiments, though he did not voice his thoughts aloud. The stranger had yet to combat with several of the other formidable challengers among the group, but thus far he was making quite a reputation for himself even here.<br><br>Beckoning to a servant, Li bent slightly to murmur something, before straightening. The servant scurried away, startling Meiling out of her thoughts.<br><br>"Are we out of tea already?" She asked curiously.<br><br>He shook his head, and took her elbow, leading her back into her seat. "I asked for the servants to prepare refreshments for both warriors, for the splendid fight. You enjoyed it, did you not?" He smiled at her flush of embarrassment, humor flashing through his eyes as she pouted, then scowled at him.<br><br>The afternoon passed slowly, though the ladder of the tournament's best became quickly apparent as a couple of contenders emerged from the large group. Finally, there were only eight left, among them the man who did not wield his sword, another who used a lance almost as an extension of his own body, and a swordsman who was uncommonly agile.<br><br>Li asked a servant to summon the eight warriors to the main landing in the garden, then sat back in his chair, indicating (insistently, when Meiling looked as if she would protest) that she should do the same. "I'm glad to see that we have so many capable warriors in the tournament. Hopefully, there will be someone among them that you find suitable to take you to the south."<br><br>Meiling rolled her eyes, but said nothing in response, waiting for the warriors to make their entrance from the stairs leading up to the veranda.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>18-02-2009, 16:38:38</strong>
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				Xiang carefully rubbed at one of the bruises that was starting to blossom on his body, wincing slightly at the pain. His last opponent had been most skillfull, and the fight could have as easily gone the other way. If he did not succeed here, perhaps the older man would consider granting him the honour of some lessons. There was still much he felt could be learned, and the sense of the man's chi was palpable.<br><br>He walked across the courtyard, weaving through the knots of talking people, competitors, servants and presumably guests of the house, seeing a double handfull of others making their own way ahead of him. He followed them up the stairs, the last in the line to arrive, and joined the others in bowing to their hosts. Folding his hands in front of him, relaxing into an easy stance he waited for their host to speak.
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				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>20-02-2009, 01:42:18</strong>
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				When the last man had taken his place on the veranda in front of the Zhang siblings, Li returned his tea cup to the servants' tray and looked to the line of eight warriors.<br><br>"Thank you for coming out on this beautiful day to participate in this competition. I will not bore you with a long, convoluted speech - for being the final eight warriors in this tournament, you will receive a silver ingot each; with each additional win, you will win more silver, and for the winner, a gold ingot. Among the eight, the one who performs most satisfactorily will have the honor of escorting my sister to Chengdu, as well as the appropriate payment and payment for the trip, which can be discussed after the conclusion for the tournament."<br><br>Li beckoned to the servants, then stood, waving to a table laid out with various refreshments. "Come, refresh yourselves before the tournament begins again. It is a warm day, and I'm sure some of you are beginning to tire. You are also welcome to stroll through our estate's expansive gardens; when the tournament is about to begin, I'll send servants to come fetch you." He was immediately caught in a conversation with two of the warriors, who eyed Meiling as they asked for more details concerning the job of being her escort<br><br>With Li distracted, Meiling got to her feet, feeling uneasy from some of the speculative glances from the warriors. She bowed quickly, then slipped away into the side garden, hoping that Li wouldn't notice that she was gone, or send servants to come look for her.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>21-02-2009, 21:46:47</strong>
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				Xiang contented himself with a couple of spring rolls, and a glass of water. Most of the warriors assembled on the veranda ate sparsely, but the man mountain that Xiang had met on the road seemed happy to make up for the rest of them, and merrily working his way along the table, chatting amiably with the others, and commenting lavishly on their hosts generosity, and the skill of his chefs. Xiang hid a smile behind a raised hand and a cough, though his eyes twinkled in suppressed amusement.<br><br>Two of the warriors had already set off towards the gardens, talking animatedly to each other. <em>Old friends.</em> thought Xiang, <em>Or possibly old rivals, judging by how they speak.</em> When he turned back, the others on the veranda had seemed quite anxious to speak to the host, and had him all but surrounded. From the man's expression he seemed to enjoy being the centre of attention.<br><br>Xiang gave his head a small shake and walked down the stairs, looking out over the gardens. <em>Perhaps somewhere quieter.</em> he thought, and ducked into the small side garden that Meiling had entered only a short time before, keeping watch over his shoulder as he did so. <br><br>Almost as soon as he entered the garden he realised he was not alone, his chi brushing against another. He spun towards Meiling, then bowed. "Your pardon, lady. I did not realise anyone else was here. I will not disturb you further, if you wish solitude."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>25-02-2009, 13:53:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Choosing one of the bridges that would eventually lead back to the main veranda, Meiling wandered along the wooden path, absently flicking her fan open and closed as she strolled. It really wasn't a bother; she didn't understand why she had to leave at all, especially since Li was going to be staying here. Well, she did vaguely remember him saying something about the rule of the Manchus being unstable, and the new imperial family wanting to assure their rule by eliminating Ming rebels.<br><br>Still, if he wasn't one of those rebels, then what was the problem?<br><br>Suddenly, she wished she had paid more attention to his explanation, rather than whining and complaining about his decision when he'd brought it up. And (unfortunately) this tournament looked like it had roped in the appropriate participants, as far as Li was concerned. He thought he had a poker face, but she'd trailed in his shadow since she could ever remember; even just watching his reaction to each individual battle, Meiling could tell that he was very pleased with the outcome thus far.<br><br>In short, he probably had at least one or two of those warriors in mind for being her escort to the South.<br><br>Meiling pouted and flicked her fan open again. The wood and paper contraption was flung out of her hand, and the girl's mouth dropped open as she was startled out of her thoughts by the unexpected action. She watched as it skittered across the wood underfoot, and stopped next to one of the competitors in the tournament. "Ah-" Her mouth opened, and she quickly curtsied in response, drawing out the white handkerchief tucked into her robes. "N-No, not at all, warrior. My brother has offered our home to you today; I would not dare retract his hospitality. And of course, I would not mind the company, if you would pardon my untimely interruption." She gestured towards the fan, as explanation.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>17-03-2009, 20:36:19</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Xiang reached down to retrieve the errant fan, taking a couple of steps closer and offering it back to Meiling. "Your gardens are quite extensive." Xiang replied. "I would consider it no slight on hospitality to find another part of them to wander in, should you prefer solitude." He gave her a small smile. "I know that, for myself, there are times I wish only nature around me." His hand rose to take in the gardens around them.<br><br>He gave a small smile, and a polite bow. "In fact, I spend so much time by myself that I forget my manners. I am Tai Xiang." 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>25-03-2009, 08:38:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She took the fan with a slight dip, smiling shyly as she received it and held it tight in her hands again. "Good afternoon, Master Tai Xiang," Meiling murmured, folding the fan into the wide sleeve of her robe. She nodded her head in greeting, solemn despite her usual cheer. Walking in the gardens had quickly dispelled any ill feelings she'd had towards her brother, and the unease she'd felt from the warriors who had been staring so unabashedly in her direction.<br><br>"I am Zhang Meiling - Zhang Li's younger sister," she said. If one hadn't guessed from her clothing that she came from wealth and rank, surely her words were unmistakably cultured and refined. "Why do you not rest at the main pavilion with the other warriors? The tournament only grows harder, the closer you come to winning," she asked curiously. She gazed out across the still waters of their pond for a moment, before turning back. Li would be more charitable if he did not have to send a servant to find her.<br><br>Glancing over at Tai Xiang, the maiden brought her fan out of her sleeve and pointed in the direction of the main pavilion. "Will you escort me back? I'm sure my brother will be resuming the tournament soon."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>28-03-2009, 14:53:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Ah, but I am resting." replied Xiang. "While others may choose to eat or drink, or simply sit around, I prefer to immerse myself in nature, in the life that is all around us." He gave a small smile. "It may not be to everyone's taste, but I find it refreshes me far more than simply sitting in a pavilion and sipping tea would."<br><br>"Not that I mean to disparage your brothers fine offer of refreshment." he added quickly, and with a slightly guilty look. "I am simply used to spending so much time wandering that I instinctively seek something similar when I feel the need to relax."<br><br>"And I would be honoured to escort you back, Lady Zhang." he continued, falling in to step a respectfull distance from her. "Though I do not believe we are too likely to encounter any dangers between here and your brother."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>30-03-2009, 06:37:47</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She chuckled, but smiled and didn't answer as they continued on their way to the main pavilion. <em>You do not know my brother, then.</em> Li could be quite bullheaded when he was determined - and when it came to his baby sister, he was not afraid to be firm, to rein in her tomboyish ways and her own obstinate nature. <br><br>When they walked up the steps to the main pavilion, Li glanced over at the appearance of white and vivid blue. His eyebrows rose speculatively at her companion, but he broke off conversation with his current admirers and came to Meiling's side, an urbane smile for Tai Xiang.<br><br>"Thank you for returning my sister - had you not found her, I'm not certain I could have found her, in our maze of a garden," he chuckled. "How are you finding the tournament thus far...?" Li glanced down at Meiling curiously, wondering what she thought of the warrior; when she didn't rise to his bait, he shifted his gaze back to Tai Xiang, waiting for him to introduce himself.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>01-04-2009, 22:48:21</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I am afraid I have had little chance to take in much beyond my own matches." replied Xiang, "But from the little I have seen, there are some truly talented wu xia gathered here." He gave a polite nod towards the other competitors that were close enough to hear him, before turning back to Li.<br><br>"I am Tai Xiang." he added, giving a polite bow to Meilings brother. "I had a moment or two to introduce myself to the Lady in the gardens, but I believe she was returning this way when I encountered her."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>11-04-2009, 09:19:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Zhang Li smiled, nodding at the other competitors as well. "Indeed; I am very pleased that there was such a turnout today. I'd had fears that skilled warriors in the region might scoff at a tournament hosted by the local landed gentry, and an official of the government, especially in the current political climate."<br><br>It was a nod to the Qing regime, in its own way. Publicly, the head of the Zhang family supported the Manchu rulers... but privately, Zhang Li was not so fond of being ruled by a group of foreign barbarians, strong or not.<br><br>"Tai Xiang. It is an honor to meet someone so skilled in martial arts." He nodded to the man, then turned to Meiling, who was busy trying to ignore the gazes of some of the other men. "Still, my sister is quite willful. You have my thanks, for escorting her back."<br><br>Just then, one of the servants called for the remaining warriors to assemble, and return to the other pavilion. "Tai Xiang; Zhu Ming Yu. Please take your places at the main stage." Now that the final ladder of contestants had been assembled, only one match would take place at a time, on the main stage erected in the garden, the center of all eyes in the Zhang estate that day.<br><br>Meiling's eyes tracked Tai Xiang as he and his competitor, a man who carried a long whip in his belt sash, made their way to the center of the platform and bowed to each other, as was custom. How would he fare against a man who had a longer reach than him?
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>17-04-2009, 02:09:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I suppose that some might not wish to attend." replied Xiang, nodding. "It depends on their motivation. For myself, I confess I had not even heard about the tournament, as I have only just arrived in this part of the world. I enjoy testing myself though, and what better test than against skilled fighters such as these?"<br><br>At the servants call he moved towards the mat, bowing in respect to the fighter he would be facing next, arching an eyebrow at the whip. <em>Not a weapon I have seen many choose before.</em> he thought as he took his stance. <em>Probably much like a rope or chain.</em><br><br>At the call to begin, Zhu began to circle the edge of the platform, small hand movements keeping the whip in motion. Xiang flowed in, seeking to test the reach and accuracy of the whip, taking a sharp strike on his thigh for his attempt. Two more approaches left him with stings on both arms, and he dropped back to formulate a plan to combat this unusual weapon.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>02-05-2009, 05:42:22</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Interesting choice of weapon, is it not, little sister?" On her right, Li's arms were folded as he watched the match begin to unfold below them. Meiling glanced his way once, then bit her lip, staring down at the two warriors, wondering how Tai Xiang was going to defeat his opponent, when the other opponent could keep him at bay with his whip.<br><br>Somehow, having spoken with him (however short and trivial that conversation had been) now made it more difficult for Meiling to disregard the outcome of this particular match. So she watched, with bated breath, as Tai Xiang was stung not once, but three times with the whip. Evidently, Ming Yu had some level of mastery with his chosen weapon - it was no item picked up during a weapons fad, or for its aestheticism. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>25-05-2009, 23:54:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Xiang dodged in and out several more times, each time taking a stinging blow from one of the metal segments of the whip. The worst was a cut over one eye, as blood falling into his eye would blind or distract him, potentially losing him the bout. <br><br>Xiang gave a small inward smile, as he had provoked enough attacks to see a small pattern in how the whip was brought back from a low strike. <em>Provoke the strike, take the hit and come in low and fast.</em> he thought to himself.<br><br>He faked another attack, paused, then committed, taking the whip strike on his knee. As the whip flew back he threw himself forwards, spinning through the air to scythe his leg through his opponents ankles.<br><br>Ming Yu lept over the strike, the movement enough to break the pattern of of his whip. Before he could land, Xiang had spun through the first kick and into a second, dropping one palm onto the ground and twisting his legs up and around in a crab claw throw that send the other man face first towards the ground.<br><br>Almost before he hit Xiang was twisting around, legs still entwined, stepping over himself and grasping Ming Yu's hair, slamming a tigers claw punch down onto the back of his neck.<br><br>Ming Yu slapped the ground to signify his acceptance of the hit, and the two men uncoiled from each other, Xiang rolling backwards to his feet. They bowed to each other, then turned and bowed again towards their hosts.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>20-06-2009, 13:31:16</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Meiling's mouth opened into a small "oh" when the two warriors untangled themselves and exchanged bows. "He won," she said, half surprised, and half relieved. Why relieved?<br><br>She frowned.<br><br>"Indeed he did. Very interesting... I thought that this one would have been difficult, though it seems it was, at least in comparison to the others," Li mused, inclining his head in a brief nod to both warriors. Meiling agreed; while she had hoped that he would not lose, especially after meeting him briefly in the garden, she <em>had</em> wondered if it would be possible for him to defeat an opponent who not only had a longer reach, but had such an unusual weapon. And it had not been as easy a battle as some of the earlier ones had been - Meiling had winced each time the whip had landed a blow on warrior Tai Xiang. Unless he had skin as hard as rock, she doubted that they had not hurt in the slightest.<br><br>Summoning a servant over, Meiling turned to murmur softly in the girl's ear. "Bring him the ointment that brother uses when he spars with his friends."<br><br>"Right away, Miss." The servant scurried away, and Meiling turned to watch the next round of fighters, discarding all attempts at disguising her interest.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>30-06-2009, 00:24:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Xiang was limping slightly as the two warriors left the mats and moved to a slightly quieter spot near the foot of the viewing platform. He rubbed at his leg, grimacing at the pain the whip had left him with. The one that had hit his knee felt like it had bit deeply, and he could feel the muscle twitching beneath his fingertips.<br><br>His fingers moved down his leg, seeking out a number of pressure points. With the correct application of pressure, in the correct spot and in the correct order, he convinced the nerves to sleep, and the pain began to slowly subside. He laid his hands on his leg, focusing again, and letting the chi flow through him. He could feel beads of sweat appear on his face, and his hands felt very hot, the same way they always did when he sought to use healing energy.<br><br>He closed his eyes, letting his focus fall inwards, channeling the energy where it needed to most go.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>10-07-2009, 11:59:40</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				When the servant returned, Meiling made a bow to her brother. "I'm going to bring this down for the two warriors, brother." He glanced over, and noted the two jars of ointment resting on the tray with a slightly upraised eyebrow. When she saw the expression on his face, she pouted. Was it so strange that she wanted to give the two of them something for their injuries, especially given that they had both made it into the final eight?<br><br>"Xiao Ma."<br><br>"Here!" From Li's other side, a tall, whipcord-lean man stepped forward. He and her brother were about the same height, but this man was noticeably more... fierce. To most people, simply being around him gave them reason to be wary, to be watchful. He carried an aura of no-nonsense seriousness - though to Meiling, he smiled warmly, winking subtly before he turned obligingly to Li, who felt both disgruntled as well as... speculative.<br><br>He nodded at the maid holding the tray; she nodded, handing it to Meiling before stepping back politely. "Escort her to the tent, please. Make sure she doesn't do anything dangerous or unnecessary." Meiling had to hide a smile. He sounded pained. He didn't like her independence, but he loved her too much to really do much except make sure that she had adequate protection. Xiao Ma, a former assassin indebted to her brother (now his bodyguard when he had to leave his home), was skilled and ruthless enough to protect her, should anyone make an attempt at her life.<br><br>He was also quite fond of his little sister, Li knew. It was really too bad Xiao Ma was not titled nobility or landed gentry, or even a Court minister. He watched the two disappear around the corner and down the steps, then turned his attention back to the current fight, both fighters evenly matched and continuing doggedly to try to gain the upper hand.<br><br>They had reached the tent where Tai Xiang and his opponent were resting themselves, when Xiao Ma touched her shoulder. "He is meditating, it seems. You'd best offer the salve after he finishes." Obediently, Meiling nodded, approaching the other man and offering the salve with a warm, shy smile. After some brief conversation, she was offered a chair by one of the other warriors, so she could wait until Tai Xiang finished what he was doing. Xiao Ma waited at her shoulder, a formidable presence discouraging the other warriors from any lustful thoughts they might have had otherwise with the beautiful Zhang sister only meters away from them.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>13-07-2009, 01:54:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Xiang could feel the others nearby, his senses heightened by the channeling of chi. Their words seemed ... faint, muffled .. as if hearing them over a great distance, but their chi sparkled golden against his closed eyelids.<br><br>He turned his head towards Meiling, eyes still closed. "Is there something I may do for you, Lady Zhang?" he asked, before opening his eyes, blinking at the brightness of the sun. He drew a deep breath, brushing each arm with the opposite hand three times, then flicking them at the ground.<br><br>"To ground myself, and my chi." he offered, by way of explanation. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>04-08-2009, 14:09:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Ah." She started in her seat when the warrior spoke and addressed her. She hadn't made that much noise, she thought - or maybe Tai Xiang had not been as absorbed in his meditation as she had assumed.<br><br>Standing up, Meiling picked up the tray and strode until she was in front of him, gracefully lowering herself to a kneel before him to offer the tray. Xiao Ma protested when he saw what she was doing. "My lady!"<br><br>She silenced him with a sharp glance, then turned back to the warrior. "For your injuries. The ointment was blessed by a Buddhist priesthood that has served our family for centuries - it's very strong." Meiling extended the tray, offering him the small lacquered jar.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>09-08-2009, 17:30:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"That is most kind of you." he replied, accepting it with a bow. "I regret I have nothing to offer in return for such kindness." He bowed again, more deeply. <br><br>He opened the jar and drew out a small amount of ointment on one finger, raising it to his nose and sniffing. "Smells terrible." he said, smiling. "My master always said that that was a sure sign that a medicine would be effective. Make it smell or taste like no one would ever want to have it willingly, and they would make an effort not to get themselves injured again."<br><br>He began to work the salve in to his injuries, wincing a little at the sensation. "Is your noble Lord brother happy with how his tournament is progressing?" he asked.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>11-09-2009, 04:37:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				She inclined her head in response to his bows. "There is no need," she murmured, rising from her seat when Xiao Ma offered her his arm. She smiled when he wrinkled his nose at the smell.<br><br>"Indeed. The smell is a rather effective deterrent for getting yourself injured," she chuckled. "But I rather think that the effectiveness of the ointment is worth the smell."<br>&nbsp;<br>Meiling had turned to leave when Tai Xiang stopped her with his question. She glanced back at him, then stopped and turned to address him. "Yes, he is. There are many strong warriors here - he is confident that he will find what he is looking for among you." This time, it was she who saluted the warriors scattered around the tent, palm against fist. "Good luck, warriors."<br><br>With that, she left, walking calmly but clearly distracted as she made her way back to her brother's side.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>HairyHeretic</strong> on <strong>28-09-2009, 01:02:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Xiang bowed respectfully as the Lady left, before looking back at the jar in his hand, and hefting it thoughtfully. <em>A token of favour?</em> he thought. <em>Or just proof of the Lady's noble character?</em><br><br>He began to work it deeper, wrinkling his nose slightly at the smell. <em>Perhaps it will give me an advantage in the next round.</em> he thought with a trace of humour. <em>If my opponent has a sensitive nose the smell should leave their eyes watering.</em><br><br>He sat resting til the call was sounded for the next round, then rose and walked back to the tournament field.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Blossoms in the Wind [HairyHeretic &amp; Caeli]</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Caeli</strong> on <strong>22-12-2009, 09:01:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				While the other combatants and fights came and went, Meiling couldn't find herself all that interested in them. They were exciting, to be sure (at one point, a man armed only with a staff disarmed and defeated a much larger brute, who'd looked sure to win with his flying mace), but perhaps it was different, having actually met and spoken with one of them.<br><br>Xiao Ma, watching her, frowned slightly. He didn't know what she was thinking, but he could guess at what occupied the young woman's thoughts. It wasn't like her to not have her full attention on the tournament.<br><br>Finally, Tai Xiang was again called to fight. He was now among the final four; the other three fighters looked to be at least his match, and his equal. Only one of them was armed with the traditional <em>jian</em>; the other, now resting in the fighters' tent, cradled a long staff in his lap. The one now standing opposite of Tai Xiang wielded a weapon uncommonly seen and difficult to master, the [noembed]meteor hammer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uhW67MBO8M8)[/noembed].<br><br>Meiling sat up now, interested; Tai Xiang's opponent wielded his weapon with a mastery as uncommon as his choice in weapon. She wondered how he would defend himself against it.
			</dd>
		</dl>
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