Video, UN: Zidian

[jc_superstar]

Good day.

[Cheng seems to be in a decent mood, a half smile playing on his face and his body in a more relaxed pose. He's not slouching, but he doesn't look like he's ramrod stiff, either.]

I need to inquire about certain weapons. Ones that can be customizable.

[His 'room' doesn't look like the one he had been in previously. It looks more modern, a little stark in its decoration save for two items hanging in the window like sun catchers: a jade ring with a silver dragon entwined around it and a soapstone carving of a lotus blossom.]

Preferably, war fans. They would be called tessen here, I believe. Where I'm from, they can come in bamboo or steel boning, and I'd like to purchase a couple of sets of each. Any direction where I can find them and an artist to paint them would be greatly appreciated. Actually, I may know of an artist who can help me, but the fans themselves need to be purchased first.

[There's a slight bow to his head in respect as he cuts the feed and waits.]

Comments

Video | un: runaway

[hideawayparadise]

I got a custom sword made for my teacher as a thank you gift to him for everything he's done for me. I bet if we work together to draw the design we can get something made from there too.

[Just as an option!]

[jc_superstar]

Someone's been teaching you the sword?

[ That piques his interest. ]

But yes, that could be possible.

[hideawayparadise]

Yep. For several months now because I got one of those kizuna swords and I didn't want to hurt myself using it. He saw me and became my teacher. He's really amazing.

So because he's done so much for me I got a custom weapon made for him as thanks.

[jc_superstar]

That's most generous of you. It's one of those swords that change color, yes? I have one of those as well and had it before Sandu was given to me here.

[hideawayparadise]

With your mood? Yep! Does yours do anything else really cool? Mine lets me go completely invisible and undetectable.

[jc_superstar]

Yes, one of those!

I... don't know. I named it Xingqing and never really delved into possible abilities other than it changed colors. Though I think the milder my mood, the lighter it feels.

[hideawayparadise]

It must be so light right now because you've been really happy!

[That's seriously so cool to him.]

[jc_superstar]

I don't know. I suppose I'll have to go practice with it again.

[ But that would make sense! He has been in a good mood.]

[hideawayparadise]

If you want to practice with me then I'll train with you. I'm probably really weak compared to what you're used to but I'm way better than I used to be!

[nie_fanboy]

If you are unable to find someone to paint them for you, I might be able to help. If you wish, of course. I'm sure there are far more talented artists in this realm than I when one considers the varied population that live here.

Will you be cultivating the fans as spiritual weapons? Or will these be as the ones used to teach the younger disciples of Yungmeng Jiang?

[How does Huaisang know about that? After his brother's death, Huaisang found that studying was quite enjoyable after all.]

[jc_superstar]

I would be honored to have a pair painted by the Nie clan. Especially one who has a keen eye on detail and dedication to their cause.

[ Because who the hell wouldn't want a piece of art from Huaisang? ]

I will teach whoever is willing to learn. [ Of course he's cocking his head to the side, wondering if he ever told Huaisang that Yunmeng taught the fan to their young disciples. ]

I don't expect to raise an army by any means, but if it helps keep custom and culture alive, I'm happy to teach it.

[nie_fanboy]

Some custom is important to keep. Some should be culled for the health of the sect. But I see your point and agree. Perhaps we can make an exchange? I will paint a pair of fans. And in trade, you could show me this fighting style.

[He holds up Shuixian so that it can be seen in the screen. It's the same one he's been carrying since the New Years Party as hosted by this realm's generous benefactors.]

I have only this, a spiritual weapon called Shuixian. And as fans aren't generally favored in Nie sect, I've had to learn much on my own.

[jc_superstar]

[He knew there'd be a price and he was willing to--]

Where...where did you get that?

[ His voice is in awe at seeing such a piece. It was beautiful!]

As far as my knowledge goes, only a few minor clans have utilized the fan--Wait, you said spiritual weapon?

[ This, he needs to learn more about! ]

[nie_fanboy]

I did. She was found in my brother's vaults after I was finally able to lay him to rest. Unfortunately I don't know her history. And as you have observed, few clans teach this fighting style.

[He shrugs a little ruefully before going on]

My cultivation has never been the strongest and the connection might not be all it could be. I wish to improve that and what better way than to learn how best to wield her as she was meant to be used?

[jc_superstar]

My teacher, Jiang Wanmin...He never said anything about fans being spiritual weapons.

[ A pause. And then he glances away for a moment. ]

If... you are looking for a lesson, I may be able to help in that.

[nie_fanboy]

[Aware that he'd initially suggested an exchange of services, he thought that perhaps it was too forward of him. Clearly Jiang Wanyin was uncomfortable and that was the last thing Huaisang wanted. He'd already done enough to this man, after all. ]

Truly, I don't wish to be an imposition. I should not have made such a suggestion. Please, forget I asked. It was only an idle thought at most, really.

Now, what sort of images did you have in mind for the art work? Is there a theme you want to keep to?

[jc_superstar]

[ Oh. Okay, well, maybe that was too much. He tried to keep the disappointment off his face and took in a breath. ]

If you ever decide to change your mind-or can't find someone here....

Riley was going to paint a pair with a lotus blossom cupped by hands. Beyond that, I hadn't thought of images more than colors. Of course, the brighter and more complex, the better. Though, maybe something similar to the pattern my teacher had.

ACTION

[rivulet]

[ Jiang Cheng may notice that in a blink of an eye, what was once a peaceful view of his window was now occupied by a figure dressed in light green robes. The clothing was of fine make, his hair held up by a silver serpent, his features masculine and yet delicate, he could easily be mistaken for someone of nobility.

His eyes were focused on the jade ring, his hand outstretched to cup it as he examined it with an interested gaze. Without looking at the other occupant he hummed out loud, as if impressed by the sight. ]

We haven't been formally introduced, but I find it very interesting that you have earned my brother's blessing. That's not something he gives out lightly.

Re: ACTION

[jc_superstar]

[Cheng was not prepared for such a sudden arrival and at first reacted instinctively. Device abandoned, his hand was ready with Zidian. He doesn't relax until he hears 'my brother's blessing' and even then he's wary. ]

No, we haven't been introduced. Normally, when there is an introduction, there's knocking at one's door.

[ He may be a happier man, but sudden and instant arrivals will still throw him off. ]

My name is Jiang Wanyin.

[rivulet]

That's true.

[ He agreed with a wry smile playing at his lips, and his eyes briefly flicking to the way that the other man seemed battle-ready. A warrior, absolutely, of that could be certain-- As if the video he had recorded wasn't convincing enough. Hey, he could have just wanted them for decorative purposes or something.

The lack of decor in the room was another tip-off, honestly. ]

Yanyou. [ he bowed politely, not low at all but respectful enough. ] I've only been here a few weeks, but I thought I'd met everyone who had Runyu's favor. Clearly, I was mistaken!

[ a pause. ] You aren't another lover of his, are you?

[jc_superstar]

[ He sputters for a brief moment. ]

No.

Do you always ask such personal questions, Yanyou?

[rivulet]

[ That was unexpectedly charming, and he had to let out a soft laugh. ]

Yes, I do. You see, at home my brother was leading a very lonely life. When I arrive here I find that he has found an abundance of love, with men no less, and it shocked me to say the very least!

So I take interest in people who earn his favor. And if they're handsome, well, it's wise to ask the question just to be sure.

[jc_superstar]

[Still a little intrusive, Yanyou! But, then again, the man (?) just popped into Cheng's room, too.]

Why do you want to know who beds your brother? Are you looking to out do him?

[rivulet]

[ That question caught him so off guard that he burst out into a laugh that had his shoulders shaking. ]

I'd never considered having such a competition with my brother, and I really don't think he'd approve! It's a very funny idea, I'll give you that.

But I'll be honest, it's because I worry about him. Don't you worry about your family?

[jc_superstar]

Most of my family is dead, to be honest.

[ Well, since there's a conversation going on... he gets up. ]

Would you like some tea? I have a pot that is only waiting for leaves.

[ Those little hot plates you plug into the wall are a godsend for tea drinkers. ]