Beijing Lihong

[Phoenix]

Cycle 76, year Yi-mao, month 2 day 20
4 April 1915

Vienna

"Your Highness ?"
"Count Doku... we meet... at last..."
"Yest, I suppose it must be as awkward for you as it is for me, to meet a former enemy..."
"In diplomacy, my dear Count, we are not 'enemies' but 'adversaries'. It is - in my humble opinion at least - a far more civilised term to use."
The New Swiss Count raised a cynical eyebrow: "Civilised you say ? Strange to hear that particular word coming from the mouth of someone whose people distinguish themselves by cutting off other peoples' thumbs..."
The Prince grimaced. "Not yet five minutes into the conversation and the insults already flourish. I fear I have to redefine the word 'civilised' where you are concerned Count."
The latter snorted, but the Prince continued: "I at least find myself bolstered by a civilisation that was already digging canals when yours had barely swapped flint for crude iron - which you stole from others. The canals in question are still in use. I would hesitate to inquire to the current industrial state of your nation. But let us cut the barbed exchanges and enjoy the fine dinner my cooks have laid out for us." He gestured towards the decked table. "The years I have spent in this country have tickled my gastronomical senses to rarified hights and I wish to share the fruits of my discoveries with you."

The cooks had outdone themselves. The exotic mixture of Chinese with European cuisine made for an interesting voyage through the possible uses of ingredients and materials. For the Prince it was -as always- a joy. For the count, judging from his demeanour, it was a surprise.
Afterwards the men adjourned to comfortable seats with the usual finish of any sumptuous meal and their conversation returned once more to the accustomed trade of veiled unpleasantries. Prince Pu Lun rather enjoyed verbal sparring, but he like his opponents to be well-armed.

At one point, as such things are inevitable, the discussion returned to events long past but hard forgotten. Count Doku explained how he had organised the raid into the Forbidden City, which led to the abduction of the young Emperor. He expressed his regret that the Empress Dowager had perished during that unfortunate event, but the Prince sternly corrected him: "She did not die that night."
"But she died because of that night ?" the Count said.
"That is as may be, but it takes more than a handful of murderers to take down an Empress Dowager of the Middle Kingdom, I can assure you. The fact that she was 65 years old could have been a factor..." He looked at the Count over the rim of his raised glass of Brandy: "She had a stroke."
The Cound nodded: "We figured as much, because of the reports we got. But surely she must have been dead before your Emperor returned ? It's a romantic fiction that she expelled her last breath just as he touched her ?"
The Prince shook his head. "No. The Great Ancestor was a formidable woman and Empress. Above all, she was stubborn." His eyes glazed over for a moment, lost in reverie. "An incredibly stubborn woman, you have no idea. She clung unto life until the only thing that mattered to her was returned. My people believe that the Emperor is the Son of Heaven. To have taken him away you literally shook the foundation of our world from under us. You cannot imagine..."
"I cannot place myself into your mindset no. And I never figured how important your Emperor was. Is."
Prince Pu Lun nodded.
"But," mused Count Doku, "one thing further puzzles me..."
"Speak on. It is the night of nights to be candid my dear Count." A small enigmatic smile hoovered around the lips of the Prince.
"You are a brilliant diplomat, I'm not trying to flatter you, it is the conclusion of our own Foreign Office. But you would equally be a formidable politician, or ruler as that may be. Why in the name of Heaven are you still on this side of the world ? Is your Emperess afraid of you ?"
Prince Pu Lun actually lost his composure for a moment. And then, to the astonishment of the Count -and his own- he guffawed.
"Oh... oh...", he hiccuped: "What an astute observation ! Of course they are afraid of me. They should be !"
Count Doku looked nonplussed.
The Prince smiled broadly. "Let me try and explain to you something that is so complex even the most experienced Eunuch has trouble understanding fully. In this dynasty, the Dragon Throne is always passed on through the Matrilineal line. The daughter of the Emperor becomes the next Empress and a suitable male will marry her, be adopted into the Imperial Family, and become the Son of Heaven. In absence of an Imperial Daughter however, a son will become Emperor and a female, descending through matrilineal lines from the former Empresses will marry him and through her the line can continue. Empress Tzu An was childless, so Empress Tzu Hsi's son became Emperor. He died, alas without issue, in 1875. A younger sister of Tzu Hsi had only a son, and he was selected as the next Emperor with as his Empress the daughter of Tzu Hsi's brother, Duke Kwei who was married to a Princess who is through her own ancestresses a direct descendent of former Empress Huifen, who lived a hundred years ago. You're still with me ?"
The Count nodded, slightly dazed.
"That offspring is Empress Mother Longyu. She has only one issue, her son, who is now Emperor."
"But what do you have to do with that ?"
"I'm coming to that. Empress Huifen had eight daughters. Her successor had only 2 sons: the eldest had one son who died without issue, Tzu Hsi's son. The second had one son who married Empress Mother Longyu. I happen to descend from yet another daughter of Empress Huifen, and being more than twice removed from the Empress Mother I was at one time -when she was widowed- considered a suitable candidate. But it was decided to wait a generation, in the name of continuency and harmony."
"I don't understand ?"
"I'm a happily married man, Count Doku, with a Princess who is a direct descendant of Empress Huifen's illustrous Mother, Empress Minde. Our eldest daughter is only 2 years younger than the Emperor..." He paused.
"Her betrothed."

"But why keep you here ? In -forgive me the expression - the boondocks ? You are the Emperor's future father-in-law... I don't understand how you can keep away from the power ?" Count Doku genuinely looked baffled.
Prince Pu Lun smiled: "What for ? And loose my liberty ? Man ! I'm as free as a bird here ! I can go in and out as I please, visit the theatre at leasure, go dining out with friends ! Here I am merely an exotic bird, interesting but of no real significance, hence not dangerous, hence not a threat. But there..." he loomed forward, eyes suddenly dark, "there I am a Power, a member of the Imperial Family, thus to be coddled, protected, locked up. The Forbidden City is a prison. A lovely one, no doubt about it, but a golden cage nonetheless... a bejewelled prison."
It finally dawned upon Count Doku. "You'd be smothered there, your talents wasted on court politics. And probably clashing with a powerful woman who is not used to adversity..."

Cycle 76, year Yi-mao, month 2 day 21
5 April 1915

Trans-Siberian Express

Count Doku awoke, in a strange room and a very narrow bed, a moving room it is even, and a constant "ca-deng, ca-deng" in the background. When he looks outside of the window he sees an unfamiliar landscape whizzing by. A train ? I'm in a train ?
He opens the door of his room and sees his view blocked by two rather substantial men, who turn as one to him and smile the most gentle smile a shark could ever display.
"Where am I ?" asks Count Doku.
"You have embarked on a voyage, your Excellency," answers one of the goons. "You may go anywhere on this train, accompanied by us of course, and enjoy the fine food, the hot baths, close medical supervison, the masseuse, the personal aah... assistant, ... but on one condition only: you will not leave the train until we reach our destination."
"Which is ?"
*toothsome smile* "Beijing."

But it couldn't be bad, now could it ? Nobody who wishes someone ill would provide that one with the finest food and the most excellent wines ? A doctor constant on call to evaluate your well-being and prescribe wholesome tinctures. A massagist who gently coaxes your body into melting relaxation. And a personal assistant who makes sure that your bed is warm. *sigh* No, nothing to worry about.

Endless vistas displayed their loveliness across the horizon, with Count Doku as prime spectator staring at them through the train window. He could not deny the sheer beauty the world was laying out in front of his eyes, seemingly for his pleasure alone, yet his mind was in turmoil and he brooded. Anticipation can be a terrible thing indeed.

Cycle 76, year Yi-mao, month 3 day 16
29 April 1915

Beijing

His reception at the Capital was satisfactory to say the least: a closed car, so that no one would see the yanquizi inside, a minimal guard. Not many formalities at the gates of impressive buildings, but the travel beyond these buildings surprised him a bit, until he remembered the plan of the Forbidden City and smirked. He should have remembered that it was a veritable city within the city. But at last the car stopped in front of one of the many buildings and he was ushered out. Again, with the barest minimum of guards, which continued to surprise him.
An elderly man was waiting for him. Count Doku knew that he should be able to recognize the function of the man by his clothes and hat, but he didn't care. His mind was still brimming with unpleasant possibilities for his immediate and presumably short future. He bowed, presuming that the man would at least be of some rank or importance. He was not wrong.
"I am Ma Li, Chief Eunuch of the Forbidden City. You might regard me as the administrator of this little community." The elder man bowed slightly. "You are welcome as a guest of the Empress Mother." Count Doku listened attentively to his translator, who told him what the eunuch said and then added: "I was told that you are a curious man and you might want to hear this little information: the name of the Chief Eunuch translates as "Strong Horse", you might find that amusing. In any case, we do."
"You're joking !" replied the Count.
"Of course I am. The Chief Eunuch knows it by the way, they are used to it, especially when their parents give them such names to start with. It's one of the little burdens of their lives."
The Count noticed that eunuchs were not held in high regard by the "whole" people.
"Of course not, for he misses the most important part of his body, that which would have generated sons who would pay homage to him and his ancestors after his death. He may adopt a child, but it simply is not the same. He's a dead end in his family line and that is a disgrace."
"Yet they are appointed to high positions ?"
"Not in the government, only in the Palace proper. Oh, no doubt they can wield power through the people they care for, but they are -and will ever be- servants. A eunuch can never rule. An Emperor must be whole."
Count Doku mused over that last revelation while he was escorted through endless corridors and passages, even gardens, towards his quarters. Had his agents not abducted the little Emperor but maimed him...

Another surprise. His rooms were airy and lovely furnished. A livingroom, a bedroom, a bathroom and even a small private garden, formed his exclusive domain, and servants awaited his wishes. Eunuchs of course. Some did look a bit... uhmmm... burly. Not doubt acting as guards.
"You will remain within the confines of your rooms and garden, I'm afraid," said the Chief Eunuch with a bow, "but I suppose you are aware of your rather... unique... status. Some might want to see you and will send for you. But otherwise you are not to leave. I am very unhappy to be so discourteous, but I have my orders."
Count Doku bowed in silent reply. And was left wondering what was in store for him.

Hmmm... books ? In his native language even, how thoughtful.
"One Thousand Variations of the Slow Death", "The Many Uses of Poison", "Slow-Grinding Agony, a treatise on the non-lethal infliction of pain", "The Hidden Killer, or the use of lethal substances without a trace"... Urgh. Who selected this for his perusal ? He opened the last book, as chance had it right on the chapter on fugu. And he swallowed. You didn't taste it until your lips tingled ? And then it was already too late ? My god ! The fish he just sampled ! His lips are tingling !!! He dropped the book as if it was electrified, not noticing the closing paragraph that mentioned how skilled cooks left just enough trace of the neurotoxin to cause the tingling but not the death.
He didn't touch his supper.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++=

Yes... I'm back. Tremble ye mortals...

[ctwaterman]

Excellent story and welcome back....

Charles/Italia

[The Rock Doctor]

The Gran Colombian civil service is already drawing up a job description for "Food Taster, Presidential Palace".

[Phoenix]

Tsk tsk tsk... such paranoia... Just because one has the books it does not mean one has the inclination.
Now, provocation on the other hand... ;D

[The Rock Doctor]

Yes, but one never knows who else will be reading this...

[Phoenix]

Zhei Kuai Yu Zhei Fen
The Fast and The Furious - Wet Feet Division...


The plane wobbled a bit at take-off, but then got its stuff together, left the waters, and flew on in a majestic, yet dripping, sweep. No trees in danger here, reflected a stoic-looking Rear Admiral as he turned towards the rest of the audience, no trees at all. He turned once more and threw one last look at the vanishing speck in the air. I am so proud of you my nephew. May you continue to soar like the dragon you were meant to be.

But it was time for the rest of the show. He approached the decrepit-looking ship, the once magnificent-looking QH Gun (translates as "Stick"), and turned towards Commodore Liu: "I don't know why you are still flying your flag on that wreck, my old friend."
Liu actually looked hurt. "She is fast, steady, and has excellent accommodations."
"And she is foreign-built."
"Phauw ! Nothing wrong with the ships they build. They float. They don't blow up in your face. I LIKE this ship."
The Rear Admiral shook his head sadly. "She's 20 years old. I'm surprised she's still floating. And here I have several beautiful designs for you to choose from... You know the good old days of testing them ourselves have long since passed, but wouldn't you just once again... ?"
Commodore Liu started to frantically wave his arms in desperate denial.
"For memory's sake... ?"
"NO !!!"
Lesser beings around them cringed. One does simply not shout down a Rear Admiral.
But Rear Admiral Gao beamed as broadly as the QH Gun was long. Some things never change.

[Phoenix]

Zhei Kuai Yu Zhei Fen
The Fast and The Furious - Wet Feet Division...

Rear Admiral Gao stood musing, quite amused in fact, at the sight of the latest Destroyers launching. The fleet of Chi's was nicely shaping up, he thought with some pleasure, and to have so many of them that we are forced to assign numbers instead of names reminds me of the good old days when I was still commanding a ship of my own. In those days, coal was the fuel, and coal the Middle Kingdom has in plenty. But these newer ships could run on a derivate of oil, and that... hmm... might be a liability. Coal... cokes... now there was an interesting option... but would that provide enough fuel for his fleet ? After all, "coal-oil" has been produced in the Middle Kingdom for centuries now, but never on such a grand scale... it was just a by-product and considered as waste... but could...
He looked askance to a gaggle of his subordinates, who were commenting with disfavour on the size of the newly launched ships. They wanted bigger ships, they looked for more tonnage because the Yang Quizi did and their ships looked far more impressive. Why would the Middle Kingdom be content with these small ships, when they could have veritable giants protecting the shore ? The fools. Not content with the Swarm concept, they wanted the Club concept. One big guy waving the flag and his club, against the vicious swarm of stinging insects who would do more than just wave a flag. Gao knew who would win. After all, he's been there. He's done that. And to quote a witty Yang Quizi, he had bought the t-shirt.
Whatever a t-shirt may be. It must have been wet in any case.
But the Rear Admiral didn't agree with his subordinates because they were stupid, he didn't agree with their ideas because they were a radical change from the old and tested don't-bother-with-outside politics of the Middle Kingdom. Our ancestors were wise, he mused, because they had learned from hard and bitter-won experience that some things just weren't worth bickering over. Oh yes, we have changed our ship-building practices enormously, adopted many of the Yang Quizi ideas and ways, but at the core there was always the unshakable belief that we would do things our way and not the Yanq Quizi's.
So this rush for building bigger ships... phaugh ! The one 50.000 tonne giant could not be in 2 harbours at the same time to defend them, but the 100 Destroyers he had in mind could.  They could also easily deal with pirates. They could guard and defend many harbours. And were swift enough to go where they were needed, too bad he couldn't have them any faster but that would have lessened their performance at sea. They must do with the speed they have. And many small cannons can beat one big cannon. Many torpedoes can take out even the biggest ship. Let the captains of the giant ships laugh and scoff at our measerly tiny destroyers with their 6 torpedoes each, Rear Admiral Gao thought smiling, because it is not the size of the ship that matters in a fight, but the size of the fight in the ship.
And he intended to collect himself a nice swarm of captains that had some fight in them too.

Removed a typo and adjusted 1 word to reality.Maddox

[Phoenix]

The following is proudly presented as a close collaboration between Logi and Phoenix.


Jiang Zhiqing sighed. He would have to do something about this. With an exasperated sigh, Jiang turned to his trusted assistant and comrade, Sho Tzu.
Signaling Sho Tzu to come closer, Jiang gave his message. "Can you call a diplomat up? Preferably one of the best we have. I have an important mission." Sho Tzu, nodded, a grave matter, no doubt. He quickly left the room, leaving the tired older man to his thoughts. Not long after a young man, dressed in a full western suit, entered the room. Judging from the looks on the President and Vice-President's faces, he knew this was no small matter. Jiang broke the silence: "What's your name?" Hesitantly the young man answered: "Gun Weijun, Mr. President." Jiang spoke almost immediately: "Mr. Weijun, I have a very important mission for you. I need you to go on a diplomatic mission to Beijing." Gun was taken aback, he hadn't expected this: "But Mr. President, what do you want me to do there for?" Jiang thought for a moment, creating an awkward silence in the room. "I want you to negotiate better circumstances than we have now with the Middle Kingdom. If at all possible, try to negotiate peace terms." Gun felt the enormous burden the President had placed upon him, and with it, his trust in his ability. "I understand Mr. President. I'll leave right away." Jiang rubbed his temple as Gun left. If Gun didn't succeed there would only be that method left. He wanted to avoid that if possible.

Cycle 76, year Yi-mao, month 10 day 29
December 5, 1915

The young man slowly walked across the courtyard that stretched from the Tai Ho Men and approached the imposing looking structure that he knew under the name of the Tai Ho Tien. This structure contained the Throne Hall of Supreme Harmony but he refused to feel awed by the lavish surroundings. There were several Throne Halls in the many buildings of the Forbidden City, he knew, but this one was generally used most often. No doubt the immense courtyards in front of it played a role, specifically designed to overawe the yokel and the yang quizi who had to cross them in order to get to the centre of all things. But not this man. Not this son of a righteous rebellion.
Eunuchs and other palace officials bowed to him. Or did they bow to his escort ? The officer of the Palace Guard who was walking in front of him sure looked stupendous in his glimmering uniform and harness. But again, the young man refused to be cowed by show of force.

He does not kow-tow !! The angry thought flashed through the Empress-Mother's mind, as she shot an angry glare at the young diplomat who bowed to the Emperor. And: He's dressed as a devil !!! She almost recoiled with intense disgust, but only years and years of iron discipline kept her from doing so visibly. It would not do to for an Empress to show vulnerability.
How odd, he does not kow-tow. The curious thought flashed through the young Emperor's mind, as he look disinterestedly down at the young diplomat. And: He's dressed as a devil. How fascinating. He dared not move, let alone show an emotion on his face, because he almost physically felt his Revered Mother's disgust emanating from her petite form and knew she would be angry if he let show any interest.

One of the Emperor's Band of Brothers leaned over to him and whispered in the Imperial ear: "Bad enough for the rebel to come here and talk, but did he have to dress like that ?"
Emperor Kaili shot a quick amused look at his Brother-in-anything-but-blood, and whispered back: "Perhaps he does not know better. They pride themselves on being "modern". And dressing like the devils seems to be the norm. I'm certain...", he shifted a bit in his elegant silk robes, insulated with layers and layers of it, which kept the winter cold from freezing him, "... that he must curse the folly of his peers now. This "suit" of his certainly does not look warm at all. Or comfortable."

In fact, Gun Weijun did not even consider the discomforts of a full Western suit in the Beijing winter cold. He was used to it. What he was considering was how to broach the subject without causing a new round of all-out hostilities. Not kow-towing was a necessary risk, and he was relieved to find his head still firmly attached to his body, because he had to show that he was subject to his President, not to this Emperor who claims to be the Son of Heaven. He has no sway over me, he thought. I am not beholden to him. So, how to start ?

Gun began to speak: "Greetings, Emperor of the Middle Kingdom. My name is Gun Weijun, diplomat of the Reformist Republic of China. My President has sent me to clear up some... misunderstandings." Despite the nerve-wrecking situation he was in, Gun looked calm and perfectly composed.

Emperor Kaili, Son of Heaven, Holder of the Mandate of Heaven, current occupant of the Dragon Throne, nodded to Lin Peide, Grand Secretary of the Lifànyuán-Yamen (Board of Feudatory Affairs), who spoke:
"It has been noted that part of the Middle Kingdom has gone into rebellion, seeking to no longer obey the Son of Heaven. This shows upmost filial disrespect and unfortunately disrupts the harmony in the world immensely. No doubt many have come to regret this already but the leaders of this rebellion hold sway over them."
Lin Peide hold up a hand before the envoy could respond.
"We know this. We also know that in the past there have been rebellions, we would rather forget them and most have been forgotten but the Records are still here in the Forbidden City and I have perused them in order to deal with this matter. The most important fact all of these rebellions had in common was that in time -and due to the infinite patience displayed by the then reigning Son of Heaven- the rebels would always return to the fold like shamed but dutiful children. We expect this rebellion to be just another in a long long line. You need to burn your fingers before you accept parental wisdom that a hot cooking pot is simply not to be touched."

For a moment there, Gun was flabbergasted, but he quickly responded, taking care not to show his surprise.

"On the contrary, you underestimate the power of reason and intellectual thought. Emperor of the Middle Kingdom, have you ever read Chuang Tzu's story of 'The Wheel Maker'? Although, your wisdom is great, your wisdom is learned only through the static knowledge of previous sages. You rely heavily on records for your decisions, ignoring living knowledge. Our wisdom is learned from experience and mastery."

"You also mention of filial disrespect but you have engaged in such hatred and angry, the very thing K'ung Fu Tse sought to stop. Did he not teach to treat all with kindness and benevolence? Was it all a lie when the records told of K'ung Fu Tse stopping all crime in a province by shining kindness upon them? You engage in this madness with the Swiss, throw my President into jail for warning you, and dare to tell our nation that we are unlearned and foolish. Did K'ung Fu Tse not teach that in order to maintain filial respect not only must the son do his duty, but the father as well?"

Gun got a little heated, but managed to hide it well. He appeared to be calm and truly making an effort to convince the Emperor.

Emperor Kaili could feel his Esteemed Mother bristling. Oh yes, he thought, that must have her up in stitches. She does not tolerate criticism well, especially criticism of what she did during the War with the Devils. Hmmm... how best to defuse this situation...
He spoke: "I know the story you speak of. You know that I have been schooled, but do you know in what ? It is the Emperor's sacred duty to study all he can, be instructed in everything he can be, gain as much knowledge as possible and then hopefully wisdom will follow. In a way I will be learning all of my life, just like the Wheel Maker has been learning all of his life. But to nurture the tree you should know where its roots are, because if you step on the roots you will damage them - and the tree will whither away."
He shook his head. "Reason and intellectual thought are developed when studying the sages and discussing their work. One needs that knowledge if one is to develop one's own work, ideas, experience. The Tree of Knowledge, oh ardent advocate of progress, cannot be nurtured without the firm roots that records provide. Experience is nothing without knowledge of the why or how, and mastery is meaningless when there is nothing to compare it with."

And now for the serious part, Kaili thought. "The lack of filial respect provokes anger, and the parent is righteous when he disciplines the child. The madness with the Devils was provoked by their own actions. As for why your President was jailed... he spoke to me of his fears, the dire signs he had perceived, the uncertain future that was waiting ahead. I heeded his misgivings and took counsel of them. But it is still my own Sovereign Right, as Holder of the Mandate of Heaven, to make the decisions for this world. I made my decisions, listening to many and discussing it with many. And when I had decided, your President did not agree with me and became disrespectful. Subsequently, he was punished. And finally, that you resent being called unlearned and foolish, well... how many of your followers have successfully sat an exam ? How many books have they read ? Do they gather often in order to discuss the finer points of learning ? No, they don't. They are working, they have no time for such frivolities as study and discussion. We need those people to work, so that they can provide food for us all. Just as we need people who have studied, so that they can organize our society and make sure everything is in harmony. All are needed, and those all I serve. But I cannot serve if my service is not appreciated."

He sighed. "How can I do my duty when 10 different people tell me to do it in 10 different ways ? Your followers say one thing, someone else says another. In the end a choice must be made. But yelling at me doesn't work. Protesting and demonstrating and waving banners with catchy sayings doesn't work either. I need proof - not words, a written statement of purpose - not a fist in my face. So... Where is it ?"

Gun blinked. In the midst of his anger, a chance had revealed itself. He  was lucky that the one he was talking to was the Emperor, not his Mother.
"If it is proof that you need we can provide. Perhaps you would like to observe our nation over the years, to see whether we fail or succeed. I'm sure that shall present enough proof to convince you."

[Phoenix]

Cycle 76, Year Bing-chen, Month 6, day 8
July 7 1916


Kang Yi, Grand Secretary of the Bingbu Yamen, hurried through the halls of the Forbidden City. "I'm getting too old for this" he muttered under his breath, "sooner or later I'll drop dead on one of these errands. What a way to join the ancestors..."
Huffing from the exertion he entered the Throne Room, where his Emperor and His August Mother were waiting for his report.
"It is confirmed Your Majesties," he said while kow-towing, "the children are leaving their sandbox."
His Most Serene Majesty Emperor Kaili looked baffled. "What in the name of Sun Wukong ?"
"Most apt that you mention the Monkey King Your Majesty", the Grand Secretary smiled fondly, "for surely the children must have been listening to him when they embarked on this crazy endeavour..."
"I'm not amused", snapped the Empress-Mother, "the Middle Kingdom and its subjects simply do not invade. We assimilate, yes, but invade ?"
"Mother", the Emperor tried soothingly, " you know we agreed to let the children play for awhile..."
"This is no longer play, my son. It's a crime against Harmony. Your task, and mine because I am the one who brought you into this world, is to ensure that Harmony abounds."
The Grand Secretary of the Board of War sighed. "And thus we go to war once more ?"
Longyu, Empress-Mother of the Middle Kingdom smiled that tigress smile Her subjects have come to both love and fear: "No. But have the troops assembled and sent to the borders we now share with the children. Opportunity beckons."

[Phoenix]

Hall of Supreme Harmony
Forbidden City, Beijing

"Your Most Serene Imperial Majesty, Your humble and unworthy servants await Your pleasure..."
"Grand Secretaries Liaing, Lin and Kang, " Emperess-Mother Longyu nodded, "you have all read the latest dispatches ?"
They nodded. In fact, Liaing Tung-yen had been writing most of these dispatches.
"And you have read the missives from Prince Pu Lun ?"
Nods again.
"I must confess that I don't much like this developing situation. It looks as if the world has become a giant ant-hill, kicked up by a God-like boot. A lot of scurrying and shuffling all over the place, everybody running everywhere and back. The children are up and about, into mischief and whatnot. Chaos threatens..."
"But what can we do about this, save from attacking the Rebellious Provinces and bringing them once more into harmony with the rest of the Midden Kingdom, Your Majesty ?" Liaing sighed.
"I know, I know... But that is a bone the dogs have gnawed into slivers now. We must look forward and find a solution for this fresh impending disaster. I don't like the kind of friends they're making. I don't like to see old friends threatened as well. Striving for Harmony have always been the best course. It hurts my heart to see how the young ones are throwing caution and good advice from their elders into the winds and causing havoc to wreck the world..."
"Speaking of young ones, Your Majesty..."
"Ah yes. Do you think it is time to let Kaili test his wings a bit ? To see how he would handle affairs of state in ... aaah... interesting times ?"
The 3 ancient Grand Secretaries smiled indulgently.
"He has always been ready to heed His elders. We think much of Him, even at such a tender age... yes.. we think it is time."
Longyu smiled mischieviously: "And I think I will throw one more pebble into the pond for him. After all... if he must shoulder his duties as a man, he should shoulder all of them."
The Emperess-Mother of All Of The World flashed a very un-Imperial grin.
"Fetch me the list of the marriage-candidates.."

[Phoenix]

A very chilly Hall of Supreme Harmony
Freezing Forbidden City, Beijing


Kang Yi, Grand Secretary of the Bingbu Yamen, hurried through the halls of the Forbidden City, breath huffing out of his wizened face in great white clouds. "I'm getting too old for this" he muttered under his breath, "this winter is killing me. Sooner or later I'll drop dead frozen solid on one of these errands. What a way to join the Ancestors..."
But he found to his astonishment that he finally reached the Throne Room without even the slightest hint of him becoming an Ancestor, and he kow-towed before the august pair on the Thrones in front of him. "Your Most Imperial Majesties, may you live a thousand times thousand years, may you..."
"Come closer to the braziers, Kang." The Empress-Mother said soothingly. "We know your devotion to the Son of Heaven well enough for you not to have you catch your death on the cold floor."
"What was so important that we had to have this meeting ?" the young Emperor inquired curiously.
Ah, the vigour of youth, the hardiness against hardship, flashed through the ancient statesman's mind. But he steeled his thoughts, better get this over with.
"The latest missives are disquieting, my Emperor. It seems that the children have anything but the Harmony of their treasure-chests in mind. We have been watching their moves for half a year now and have seen their ambitions grow..."
The Empress-Mother looked askance to her offspring. "Your thoughts ?"
The young Emperor looked grim. "As you said some time ago, when it was hot and stifling in these Halls, opportunity beckons. But I think they are seeing opportunity where we see disaster. We must act this time, or the children will never learn.
After all, I have a Mandate of Heaven... and it forces me to defend Harmony in the World."
"Good," nodded the Empress-Mother. "And your actions are ?"
"Send out the orders we discussed previously." The young man looked grim. "It seems I have a reputation to build."
The old Grand Secretary of Foreign Affairs bowed his way out of the Throne Room.
Oh my, and won't that kick up the Bingbu-Yamen...

[Phoenix]

December 12 1916
Prince Pu Lun's office in the Middle Kingdom Embassy
Vienna

"They want me to travel to Italy ? At his time of the year ? What a hardship. Truly, the life of a diplomat is fraught with constant suffering but a total dedication to the job demands no less than immediate obedience. Ah well... first the letters. Then the tickets."

"My most Esteemed Colleague, His Excellency the Ambassador of Italy in Vienna,

My most abject and profuse apologies for disturbing Your Excellency's most valuable time ! This humble servant trusts this missive will find Your Eminence and His Sons in good health and prosperity and hopes it will not disturb Your Excellency's time more than necessary.
It has come to the attention of the Middle Kingdom, that Your valiant nation has managed to tame the Laws of Physics in this regard that ships of war can be built in very tiny size, yet with very grand effect. We are most interested to explore these Fast Assault Motor Boats, the existence of which a well-fated wind has whispered about in my worthless ears.
Could it be possible, and this worthless maggot humbly bows with shame at such a preposterous notion, that more information could be gathered, maybe even a small voyage endeavoured, in order to satisfy this unworthy's curiosity ?

I remain Your Excellency's most humble servant,

Prince Pu Lun
Ambassodor of the Middle Kingdom
Vienna"

[Phoenix]

December 1916
Border between Middle Kingdom RCC, a hilltop north of Wuhan

"Press that any closer against your eyes and you'll lose them... in this cold..." the grizzled old veteran muttered.
But the young officer using the large binoculars was not impressed. "That's why I kept it under my coat when we marched up here, now shush."
Looking.
Looking.
"Hmmm.... that's strange..."
The veteran looked up with alarm. That expression always heralded impending doom, in his opinion, especially when uttered by young officers.
"Have a look yourself, Wu, because you have experience I don't."
Rare breed that, officers who say so.
The older man looked, then started cursing.
"Why are those barracks empty ? There's no smoke from the chimneys, there are just coolies scurrying about... where are the guards ?"
"They've moved them, that's for sure. But not to this front, or we would be dodging bullets by now..." the officer mused.
"They've moved them, My Lord," sighed the veteran, "and I pity the fools who will be facing them when nobody knows where they went."

[Phoenix]

Zhei Kuai Yu Zhei Fen
The Fast and The Furious - Wet Feet Division...

Rear Admiral Gao admired the view. It was not the grandiose vista of a landscape view, nor was it the majestic sight of a battleship being launched for her first date with the sea. No, it was rather the mundane view of the courtyard of a not-so-small house, but to him it was a kingdom. It was the Gao House. And the people gathered therein, they were his people, the Gao extended family. He could feel tears well up in his eyes, knowing where his family came from and how much several members of it have achieved, and so he turned and bowed once more to the altar and paid homage to his ancestors by lighting joss-sticks and clapping his hands. Theirs were simple engraved and painted wooden planks, not the gold or gilded versions of the nobles, but he had taken care to have the oldest of them lovingly treated to last another few centuries. Theirs were simple names on the planks, of simple people: craftsmen, boatsmen. Humble but proud people. His Father's would be the first gilded one.
Ah, Father.
Father was the reason for the familial gathering today. In the centre of the courtyard, at the pride of place, a throne-like chair had been erected and on it -surrounded by a happy gaggle of grandsons and even one great-grandson- sat the venerable patriarch of House Gao. Clad in Imperial Yellow.
The Rear Admiral smiled fondly, but with pride too. Not everyone was granted the right to wear the Imperial Yellow. It was a privilege set aside for the Emperor and only 1 class of people... the octogenerians.
Reaching the age of 80 was not just a milestone, it was a Great Achievement. Few got there, certainly amongst the common people who toil hard and eat little. But it happens. And when one reaches that venerable age one is celebrated and revered, and one can spend the rest of one's days with a small pension from the Emperor and the secure knowledge that everybody will bow to you. They bow for the years, and the wisdom accumulated during those years. Be ye peasant or prince, when you reach 80 you are king.
Wife Number 1 and Wife Number 2 were chatting with Mother. The Rear Admiral shook his head wryly, look at them and you'd think they were the most loving of sisters. When in reality he must keep them in separate chambers during winter if he wanted his body to thaw, and in the same room during summer if it was too hot outside. But both were great adherents of keeping up appearances and when needs must...
A young man came towards him. Ah, speaking of the devil.
"Shu-Chang !"
"Uncle Admiral," the young man smiled, and bowed slightly. "What a joy this day brings."
"I am overcome with joy, my nephew. Even more so to see Venerable Father cradling his first great-grandchild ! My sincerest congratulations, by the way."
The young man grinned, beaming like only a new father could: "I am so glad my wife delivered this morning. And a healthy boy too... just in time for Grand-Fathers grand feast. It couldn't be a more auspicous day. For both."
The Rear Admiral nodded. "It feels such a shame to talk business on such a day..."
"But we see each other so seldom," the young man admitted, "and so we must seize the moment. You wanted to talk about those airplanes ?"
"Yes. How are they shaping up ? Mind you, it's army business you're in, not navy business. But a good officer is always on the lookout for interesting new ways to kill the enemy..."
"We have not lost a single pilot in the past 3 years, Uncle. At least, not officially. Un-officially we had to gather up the pieces of a score or so unlucky men, but the advisers assured us that this happens even with their own people and craft so I suppose we're not bad off."
"But surely the next-of-kin..."
"They died defending the Middle Kingdom at the border with the rebels, Uncle. Which, more or less, they actually did."
"And these advisers, you get along well with them ?"
"You were the one who taught me that not all yang-quizi are bad. They have funny notions, yes, and even more strange rituals. But at the end of the day they get as drunk as any man, and try to get laid as any man." The grin grew even wider. "I can assure you that they are built like men, and eliminate waste like men all the same. The only differences are the colours of skin, hair and eyes. And the most repugnant fact that they tend to be extremely hairy all over." Shudder. "Some of them are veritable apes !"
Shu-Chang looked over the courtyard at a gaggle of giggling nieces and cousins. "Not that the presence or absence of hair would matter in some cases..."
"Now, now...," his uncle admonished him gently.
"In any case, I get along with them quite nicely. And you know how these madmen are wont to call me ?"
"Enlighten me, "Happy-Go-Lucky"..." (which is actually the meaning of Shu-Chang)
"They call me Harum-Scarum."

[Phoenix]

Hall of Supreme Harmony
Forbidden City, Beijing

26 December 1916

His Most Serene Majesty Emperor Kaili watched impassively as his Grand Secretaries kow-towed. He was getting used to the ceremonies, but they always took time... and it wasn't too hot in this hall either. Silently he blessed the humble silkworms who had died for his warm silk garments. Sometimes we forget that it is the most humble and small that are indispensible, he mused. He gazed over his Grand Secretaries, all of them venerable and ancient, and no doubt looking forward to retirement but reluctant to let matters as important as they were now slip from their fingers. Kaili understood duty. And he reckoned himself lucky to have their wisdom and knowledge at his beck and call. But soon they must be replaced. No doubt Mother will help me here.


Grand Secretary of the Bingbu Yamen, Kang Yi, was the first to speak. "This war is growing, and the children find themselves more and more alone."
"No doubt they have a hard lesson to learn," the young Emperor said grimly, "but can we afford to have them bleed to death ?"
Grand Secretary Liaing Tung-yen of the Tsungli-Yamen intervened: "That will teach them to trust yang quizi ! The Great Buddha Ancestress Tzu-Hsi was right when she told us they couldn't be trusted. We should step in and protect the children against further folly !"
But Lin Peide, of the Lifànyuán-Yamen, shook his head. "We don't want to kill our own people. A war against the children would mean pitting brother against brother, son against father." They all shuddered at those last words. Yet Liaing Tung-yen wouldn't change his opinion. "We have no choice, if we are to bring them back to the fold. They have caused enough damage already..."
The young Emperor turned to another of the Grand Secretaries. "Ma Junde, how does the Board of Household stand ?"
The Finance Minister shrugged: "We have sufficient reserves, the crops have been abundant, and I think the military has enough funds for what they need." He glanced over to his colleague Kang Yi, who nodded.
"And the troops can travel ? In this weather ?" was the next Imperial question.
Kang Yi nodded again. "They stand ready. I have made sure that all troops have been explained that Harmony has been shattered by the rebels. Their morale is good."
Kaili looked at all 8 of his Grand Secretaries, and shot a quick glance over to his Mother who had followed the deliberations silently. She wanted him to take charge. Oh, well...

"Re-inforce the Wuhan Fortress. One cavalry corps from the Brown Army should be sufficient to bolster what's already there. And get that new batch of railguns going. Ten three-thirties should do it. All the rest should prepare and stand ready."

"And next," the young Emperor snarled to his Grand Secretary of the Tsungli-Yamen, "get me that representative of the rebels. They need chastizing."