Empress Mei: watches closely, fingers nervously twirling a lock of hair D-do you... enjoy calligraphy, General?
top rat looks up at her from his work I find it relaxing. The calming strokes and gentle movements bring my mind peace.
Mei nods, her stern expression softening slightly as she gazes at TopRat intently Yes, I find it relaxing as well. The rhythmic flow of the brush against the paper is meditative.
She glances down at the calligraphy piece TopRat is working on. Your strokes are smooth and controlled. You have potential.
I have never tried it before. Is it fun? I asked curiously.
A small smile tugs at the corners of Empress Mei's lips, surprised by your curiosity.
"It can be, if you find peace in the flow of ink on paper. Would you like to try?"
Yes I do. I look at Mei. How about you? Do you enjoy it as well?
nods slightly, a rare smile on her lips
I find it... soothing. A way to release my thoughts and emotions onto paper.
her eyes dart to the paper you're currently writing on
What are you working on?
I do. It helps me clear my mind. Especially after everything that has happened.
nods, her gaze lingering on your hands moving across the paper, creating beautiful characters
I understand. Calligraphy... it helps me focus, keeps my mind from wandering. She glances up at you, studying your expression What exactly has happened, General?
It’s relaxing. I find it helps clear my mind after a long day of battle.
smiles slightly I see... I too find solace in calligraphy. It's like the brush dances across the paper, expressing all my thoughts and emotions without words. It's a form of meditation, almost.
sits on a beach and sighs I guess…
raises an eyebrow, a small smirk playing on her lips
Is that the best you can say? I thought you generals were known for their discipline and focus. Or are you just not as dedicated as you claim?
I do. It helps me relax. Especially after a long day of... pauses, looking for the right words battling
nods, a small smile appearing on her face
Yes, I understand. Calligraphy has a similar effect on me. The gentle glide of the brush across the paper, creating beautiful strokes and characters...
looks at your own brushwork, studying it intently
You have a natural talent for this. You should keep practicing.
I do. It helps me relax. And you?
smiles slightly, the corners of her lips curling up It does help me relax as well. It's one of the few things that distract me from my thoughts.
her gaze drifts away for a moment, her eyes reflecting a mix of sadness and contemplation, before returning to you
How did you get into calligraphy, General?
I do. It helps me pass time during long campaigns. What about you? Do you have any hobbies that bring you joy?
nods slowly, a hint of melancholy in her eyes I do. I find solace in poetry, and occasionally painting. The act of creating something beautiful can be quite therapeutic, don't you think, General?
I look up at her. It's very relaxing. And soothing for the mind.
nods, a hint of a smile on her lips
Yes... I find solace in the strokes and forms. It helps clear my mind and focus on something other than the past...
looks at your brushwork Your hand is steady. You have promise, General.
I smile warmly. I do. It helps me clear my mind after all the battles.
nods in understanding, her eyes studying your focused expression as you write
I see... It's a healthy way to release tension. The art of calligraphy can be very soothing, especially when practiced in solitude.
she pauses, her gaze lingering on your hand as it moves across the paper
Yes I do. He looks at her.
smiles slightly, her eyes glimmering in the soft light
I see. Your strokes are precise, steady, and controlled. You have a good eye for art. It is a skill that requires patience and dedication, much like warfare.
Her voice is soft, almost musical.
Why do you practice calligraphy, General?
Smiles at her. I do. It’s soothing. How about you? Do you enjoy it too?
a small smile graces her lips Yes, it is soothing. I find it helps me focus and clear my mind. It is also a good way to express my thoughts and feelings without having to speak.
I continue practicing calligraphy. It’s nice to have something to do while I’m stuck here.
Mei nods, her gaze still fixed on your movements, a hint of admiration in her eyes
Yes, it is indeed. Calligraphy is a calming hobby. It helps me focus and clear my mind.
She pauses for a moment before continuing
How long have you been practicing, General? You seem quite skilled.
I find it calming. He continues writing with a bamboo brush. Do you paint?
nods, watching the brush dance across the paper Yes, I paint occasionally. It helps to clear my mind. leans closer to observe your technique You're quite skilled, General.
I look over at her. As much as one can. Why do you ask?
she smiles faintly, her eyes fixed on your writing No particular reason, just curious. Calligraphy is a hobby of mine as well, though I'm nowhere near as skilled as you.