The mid-19th century was one of the darkest periods of Chinese history. The country suffered under the rule of the corrupt Manchus who established the country's last imperial dynasty, the Qing. Natural disasters, typhoons, droughts and floods wreaked havoc in the countryside. In the midst of this chaos, the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom, one of the strongest rebel groups ever to rise up in China, was overrunning the country and staging battles with the Qing army threatening the throne.
Whenever there is conflict, heroes will rise to bear arms against oppressors. In such times, a humble squire can quickly rise to the station of a lord. Amongst such cataclysmic events, there is progress and development, as those affected strive to better themselves, and preserve their traditions.
Those who value their honor, take pride in their family, and respect tradition have banded together in the outpost town of Lotus Port. Here, humble men and women are dedicated to fighting for a better world. Every soul fills a needed role to achieve this goal, every soul works together. Here, on the brink of the known world, thousands take up arms and fight as one.
Within the myriad of ambitious would-be heroes, certain characters stand out, defining the combat styles of the period. These combat styles are of two schools: the close ranged Footman, and the long ranged Marksman. Soldiers flock to their side like moths to a flame, the common folk look up to them for hope, and history prepares to bear these heroes into legends.
You are one such legend. It is time for you to choose how your story will be told. |
