Don't let the stars in your eyes.

[militarydiscipline]

["I'm counting on you to keep her safe."

Yu Jin sits ready at the driver's seat of the carriage, hands gripped around the reins and ready to start the journey. His trident is within arm's reach but the blade remains concealed by the silk bag he had purchased; as much as he dislikes travelling in such secrecy (almost like a dishonourable thief, he muses irritably) he has his...charge's well-being to consider.

The things he does for his lord. He hadn't been too impressed with his latest assignment; protecting the Lady Cai Wenji on her journey to visit her sister hardly seems like a befitting task for a general of his repute and standing within the army. But it's probably because of those two that Lord Tsao Tsao had given him the order in the first place; with a fearsome warrior of Wei at her side, which thief or brigand would dare to even set their eyes on Lord Tsao Tsao's favourite poetess? The land was enjoying a brief moment of respite from wars, and Master Xu Huang had assured him that his troops would be kept well-drilled; Yu Jin knows he can trust the axe-wielding general to keep his word.

It's an easy enough job, so easy it's almost an insult to his martial ability. But Yu Jin understands that his lord is entrusting him with the safety of one of his court favourites, and that's an honor and prestige in itself. It's a mark of how much faith his lord has in him and Yu Jin would rather die than disappoint the man he's come to serve with unerring commitment.

The sky is beginning to brighten; they should probably make a move on now. The curtain separates the guard from the guarded, perhaps that's a good thing because he's not fond of dealing with women directly, and if it keeps the two of them from conversing during this trip then so much the better. His tone remains strict and serious, his back ramrod straight and his eyes and ears alert as he flicks the reins and the wheels of the carriage start to turn.]

Lady Cai Wenji, our journey begins now.

Comments

sorry this took forever weep

[celestialis]

[ What does one really say when their Lord and most respected superior asks him to do her the honour of allowing his most trusted officers accompany her to the event she has asked leave for? Of course, be it as it may, she appreciates his concern- and is grateful for it! Though the fact that he chose Master Yu Jin is something of a surprise, seeing as he's such a well-respected and well-known officer.

Master Guo Jia had teased her about it, warning her that the frightening general would be looking to avenge himself for the time they spent searching for her, which was only met with Master Xun Yu shaking his head at him, though the memory of that rather... unfortunate incident still rung fresh for her.

It was only a few weeks back that her little leisurely stroll had caused so much trouble for Lord Cao Cao's dearest officers. So to have Master Yu Jin not only accompanying her, but heading the carriage that she was to take for her visit was... a little unsettling, if she was being honest. But when had she ever been a fearful damsel, anyway? Circumstances aside.

Which is why, once the handmaidens have set all their necessities in their storage, and wished her well, her trusty harp kept with her in the event it does pose a need, she settles herself in. It's a covered carriage, spacious for two- a security measure from Lord Cao Cao of course, and with ample enough room to stretch one's legs. The two horses in front seem to be ready and eager to move, and as Yu Jin speaks, Wenji's well-trained ear turns to the sound of his voice, firm and reverberating across the panels of the carriage box, before she smiles and lets it be heard in her own voice. ]

By your leave then, Master Yu Jin.

[ She is glad he gets a little awning of his own to keep him from the sunlight that's sure to shine on him in the next three hours, but she's also made sure to keep ample necessities. Jugs of water, packed snacks that can be eaten on the way when they stop for a break, books to read...

And her instrument, of course, to provide the journey with ample entertainment. It's when they begin to move that it all becomes worth thinking about, and she pushes back the curtain to see the palace walls passing them by once Yu Jin begins their move, passing through the lovely city that has been her returned home, and further.

She doesn't say anything immediately as they pass by, enjoying the sight from behind the curtain, and it's when they're into the half-hour mark of their journey, that Wenji finally does release a little sigh. ]

It is a three hour journey, Master Yu Jin- perhaps you would like to take a break after some time? I can't imagine how much of an inconvenience I must be for you to have to personally escort me.

[ Never one to hold her tongue, yet polite in its delivery, she can't help but remark in amusement as she speaks over the barrier to him. ]