LotS/The Story/Days of Wu/The Weiqi Game
My work is done. The words are spoken and secrets shared. I shouldn't delay any longer, and wallow in remembrances of a life that must now come to a close. It's time to end the game.
Noir places his stone. I place mine.
- click* *click* *click* *click*
Before, I was content to stave off his attacks and take his measure. Was I relieved or disappointed to learn that he wasn't my equal? It's of no consequence.
White and black stones fall like cherry blossom petals. They paint pictures on the wood, blooming and battling.
I press the attack.
"Splendid," I say. "I was hoping it would prove so."
"A fine victory," Noir says, "but your meaning eludes me."
"Had your skill been as great in strategy as in battle, I would have been most perturbed. It's a relief that it isn't so."
Yes... This epiphany comes along with the pleasure and pride of victory. Noir, whatever enigmatic power he represents, isn't invincible. I have vanquished him. What more could a man ask for in his final moments?
"We have tested ourselves at your game. Now we shall do the same in mine. And I do not believe the results will be so pleasing to you. But I shall relish discovering the extent of your abilities."
We stand and move into the middle of the floor. Part of me, the deep hubris at the core of my being, urges me to try him in battle. My bones and muscles aren't so old. My reflexes are still sharp, as the Besalaad warrior discovered on Jerusalem Maior...
"I shall destroy <Player's name>. You have merely purchased him/her time."
"Perhaps... But only if you leave here alive."
"You are that confident in your assassin's tricks?"
I put folly aside, and abandon the delusions of a distant part of me that wishes to cling to life and imagines it could be so. <Player's name> is a superb fighter. And even he/she couldn't match Noir.
"No. In my politician's tricks."
I whistle. The decision is made. Outside the house, energy barriers will flicker into being. The most powerful shields Sian technology can muster. Strong enough to contain the nuclear explosion that will atomize my home and the two of us.
Metal seals slide into place. There will be no escape.
My name is Wu Tenchu, and tonight I'll play weiqi with the Emperor.