An Ambiguous Friend [Yen Wang)

[Liu Bei]

As ordered the second part of the Three Way Scheme was being placed into motion and it seemed one that was of high interest, for one General had heard many a tale about this newly established resident of Hanzhong; a city that was in the line of Shu expansion..however, now it was the gaze of friendship and an alliance to protect each other's interests. From the South came a small unit of men, a simple procession to become the entourage for the current head of military affairs within the army of Shu. Indeed many believed this slow growing Kingdom to be a mere beast out of breath, purely waiting for the dagger to cut the throat. How many misjudged, for it finally rose from the ground and took upon a form far stronger than a demonic beast; our of the dust sored the Dragon, flashing its green scales to the Heavens and awakening the Nether Realm with its rerocious cry!

The head of the entourage was General Mi Fang, spear in hand and upon a tan thoroubred that was a faithful companion upon expeditions and even within battles. Looking at the fertile fields, mountainous region to the East and of course, the idyllic foresty, Fang could see why his Lord wished to gain such a city under his control. The agriculture of this city was like no other and its people rather kind-hearted, even though they gained a small demon as their leader. Nonetheless, there was an important mission at hand and the target spoken; Fang was not going to return with a failure. Furthermore, This new inhabitant was rather solitary surrounded by the Liu kinsmen and could easily be eradicated from this realm if all three combined their force to expell him. Yet, it is Yen who gains the favour of one of the Liu kinsmen, as he can see the strength within and one that would be helpful to fend off the every growing forces of Wei...

"Men, go on ahead and request entry to see this Master Yen; announce General Mi of Shu has come as envoy on behalf of Master Liu Bei!" A few men spoke acknowledgement and rushed on ahead to the gates of the Hanzhong Castle, that were patrolled by the men who now kowtowed to the incombant. Fang was not one of diplomacy but had heard enough to know that he may see eye-to-eye with this Master Yen; a man of similar physical prowess and one familiar with the way of the blade. Perhaps this council could get more interesting than first anticipated...

[Yen Wang (Burai)]

Yen Wang was at castle; He was relaxing enjoying the festivities of his newly conquered city. He had an unpleasant look on his face. “These people are worthless!” He was out on the balchony looking down on his city. Suddenly a violent knock came from his door. “Wh-“ Before he could finish a young man burst into his door. The man fell to his knees and began to pant heavily.

“My lord! My lord!” The man shouted as he tried to catch his breath. He planted his hands firmly on the carpet, lowering his head to show respect. “I’m s—sorry for intruding my lord, but there is a person wishing to meet with you, an envoy from Liu Bei.”

Yen Wang slowly turned around and walked toward the messenger. “Is that so?” He pulled out his weapon and coiled it around the man’s neck. “Did this he also tell you to storm into my home unannounced?” Yen Wang tightened his grip and pulled tighter. “Did he tell you to bring that fealthy dirt and mud on my carpet and floor?” The weapon squeezed around his neck again. “Perhaps you look down upon me and wish to serve him and rule Han Zhong!”

“N—n—no, please ha—ve mercy.” The messenger pleaded with his lord, as he felt his life being drained from him.

“You will clean up this mess, and the rest of the castle. I want this place spotless, by the time I return. If not then I will take you down to the pits.” Yen Wang released the messenger and fixed his hair. “I am not without mercy. I will give you a chance to redeem yourself. Now get to work.”

The messenger kissed Yen Wangs left boot and placed his face into the carpet. “Th-thank you m’lord.” The messenger scurried off to find water.

Yen Wang sighed, “Liu Bei sends his regards?” He made his way out of the castle and onto the gates. The guards salutued him as he made his way through the garden. Once he was at the gates he flicked his bangs. The guards hurried to the gates and opened them from him. Yen Wang stepped through the gates and slowly approached the men who summoned him. “So Liu Bei has something he wants to discuss, yet he sends you, and doesn't come himself?”

This angered Yen Wang “Does your lord wish to mock me with such a meager approach?” he placed his left hand in his pocket and the other palmed his face. “This better be worth interrupting me, or you are going to be thrown in the pits.”

[Liu Bei]

As the unit was met with an unsavory reception, Fang could not help but chuckle at this youth attempting to be someone he truely wasn't; did he place himself as a Dong Zhuo incarnate? Or perhaps the male version of Empress Lüzhi? Which would make him in the same position as Consort Qi?..an entertaining though... Which ever it did not matter, for there was something at hand that Fang would not leave without.. Looking to the man, the grip upon his spear tightened a little. "Master Yen, insolence was not intended. The Master Liu is currently engaged in personal administration with the Kingdom of Wu, thus I offered to take place as envoy; for I have heard many a word of a certain demonic figure that inhabited Hanzhong. However, all I see is a man who wishes to play the part of Empress Dowager Lü Zhi!" The men who had arrived in Hanzhong with the General could not help laugh at the mocking insult; though it had purpose. On analysis this Yen Wang did not take kindly to diplomacy, it seemed, so through taunting and the attributes of war he shall be coerced to see that an alliance with Shu would be beneficial to him.. Not only that but his name had quite a large bounty upon it...

Another tightening around the spear, a cough to break the laughter and silence his men.. Fang gazed up at Yen Wang, eyes became more serious for the intentions he was present for. "I come from Yong'an in hopes to create an alliance with you; as it is knowledge to me that you have placed a name for yourself..a name that many Kingdoms wish to eradicate." It was true, he had not heard many beneficial traits to this Yen Wang; many people desired his blood and with the lack of personel..it was inevitable, for if Wu and Wei combined their forces to take him down..he had no chance of surviving such an attack. Yet, with an alliance with Shu could easily help the fool who was clearly not fit to rule a Kingdom, let alone command an army; soon beings as him gain the same fate as Dong Zhuo.. "So, will you come down and talk, or shall I leave to watch an inevitable demise?"

[Yen Wang (Burai)]

“The cowards Wu are more important?” Yen Wang sighed heavily; what was Liu Bei planning if Wu was a part of that plan. It would bring doom upon his neighbor. “Liu Bei is wise to want a demon as an ally, but choosing a group of cowards. That will be rather unbecoming.” Yen Weng looked up to the sky and spoke again. “Cowards are indeed more troublesome than a demon. One already knows what to expect from a demon, but a coward’s motives are always questionable”

He chuckled softly at the compliment referring him to Empress Dowager Lü Zhi. He looked back at one of his guards and nodded. “So this is how Liu Bei offers a hand of peace; through men who are disrespectful and quick to threaten a man in his own kingdom. I believe your ruler wouldn’t be pleased if you wouldn’t return to his side. You are in a demon’s hell and you wish to anger that beast, perhaps I should show you some hospitality as Empress Dowager Lü Zhi would?”

Yen Wang enjoyed the threats the man threw at him. It would take all of china to end Yen Wang’s dynasty; no man could rise up to the challenge alone and stop him with his own strength. He didn’t care about that, the men of china were weak and pathetic. Even in diplomacy they throw idle threats and insults. This is what the warriors of china were reduced to? Where is the strength, the might and courage, which lead the people?

Yen Wang understood his name struck fear in the hearts of the other kingdoms and they would eventually band together and try to eradicate him. This didn’t frighten him, nor did it sway his mind. If Liu Bei’s envoy was going to treat him in such a crude manner. Their behavior is only a reflection of their lord.

His detest for this so-called alliance grew worse. “So you offer me this proposal with a threat. Why I would join forces with such people? Would you like to continue this converstation alone; perhaps a walk would do you some good, and rid you of your malice, or I can rid you of it right here.” Yen Wang slowly moved his right hand behind him and grasped his weapon. He gave the envoy a choice; Yen Wang would teach him humility, or he could humble himself. A relationship of two kingdoms where at stake here. Konton-Kaze n Shu could be formidable allies, or Shu could deal with Wei and have to worry about their back. Liu Bei entrusted such an important task to such a man, Yen Wang would see how wise or foolish this man truly was.

[Liu Bei]

An eyebrow raised as the words fluttered down from the being, who believed himself demonic; though Fang was less than persuaded to think the same. Nonetheless, he had a point and they were here on behalf of Liu to gain an alliance between both Kingdoms. The General rose the spear in his hand, pointing the blade directly at Yen. "You Master Yen, are an interesting character. Descend so we can chat some more!" A chuckle left his lips as the weapon was lowered back to his side, it seemed that perhaps there would be more than simple alliance with this man. To Fang he saw an opportunity for a duel, a simple friendly boute to observe the skills of this man..whether he was truely demonic or a being of the jester attempting to grow something of significance. The tone within Fang's voice had a joking pattern, informal to say the least but not one for diplomacy; it was no surprise...

"Allow us to walk a while, we have much to discuss." However, the General simply wished to see how demonic this being was and perhaps what sort of ally he would become. Liu wished for friendship, while Fang wanted to know if he was capable to aid Shu with strength instead of mere words of power that seemed so easily to blurt from his lips....

[Yen Wang (Burai)]

“Eh” Yen wang crigned at the sound of the man's vulgar tone. That brute was not one for diplomacy, but neither was Yen Wang. "Out of all people Liu Bei you had to send him." let out a long drawn out sigh. He gradually made his way down, but was confronted by one of his guards.

“My Lord! Do you wish to summon Rasa?”

Yen Wang swayed his hand, “Let the Monkey, do as he pleases. I shall inform him later. ” He dismissed the guard and continued down the steps.

“But..My Lord-“

Yen Wang's hand violently struck up and paused.

"Y-Yes my lord, your judgment is best!” The guard knelt down and lowered his head.

Yen Wang continued walking down the steps. Once he was on the ground he cracked his neck and shoulder. He casually walked into the garden; his eyes carefully scanned the peasant that were tending to the flowers. “This way envoy, I will have to ask you leave your entourage there. I promise as long as they behave, no harm will come to them.” Yen Wang turned slightly and waited for the brute to make his way into the garden.

He didn’t know what the man wanted to discuss. Other than the alliance, what else could he possibly have in man. Yen Wang was aware of other potential threats. The envoy from Liu Bei, meant that other leaders began to make their move. Yen Wang didn't see any point in worry about such trivial matters. An alliance with Shu will make future enemies think twice about invading these lands.

[Liu Bei]

As the offer was accepted, Fang could not help chuckle at the opportunity to see how this 'demonic' being truely was. Turning his attention to his men, they knew of the plan and watching the General dismount was enough to know that his life would be fine..but if they sensed something had gone array, they would take the fore. Being escorted into the gardens, it seemed some time since he had visited Hanzhong and though the air was quite different from last...he still enjoyed being here. "Master Yen, I shall come to the point. Master Liu has been silent for some time now and seen that many believe he is weak, thus, he has seen to it that his military strengthened. The domestic policies in charge of my brother, who had a prosperous career in Xuzhou."

Stroking the small beard upon his chin, Fang turned to gaze at Yen Wang, who to him did not seem as the rumours suggested; perhaps pure speculation. Though many can be deemed as demons if they take to battle as swift as he did. "Though there is one thing Master Liu is concerned about... Wei seems adament in taking the territory within Shu's jurisdiction, thus they may attempt to invade Hanzhong to make a path to Shu's Capital of Yong'an." Fang was interested to see what Yen would say to this matter, though he had a few assumptions to the reaction. Perhaps he would enjoy this fact? To see one large contender for unification on his borders, no doubt the word 'slaughter' would be mentioned...

[Yen Wang (Burai)]

Yen Wang smirked, he was pleased to see the envoy make a wise choice. He lifted his hands and motioned something to his guards; the guards saluted and back away. Being a leader was rather troublesome, but Yen Wang couldn’t see himself serving under anyone, not even his own reflection. He was a deity God of death, why would he serve any man?

The envoy spoke oddly of Liu Bei, stating that other leaders saw Liu Bei as weak. If that was true, Yen Wang would have no reason to ally himself with a weak leader. Liu Bei was spending his time building an army. “Like a snake in the grass; buying its time, waiting for the perfect time to strike.” Yen Wang found this most invigorating and disturbing. If what the envoy said was true, Liu Bei’s forces could rival his own. The fact remains, that Liu Bei sought him out. Yen Wang holds some value that Liu Bei needs.

Then it was clear, as the envoy spoke of Wei. Neither friend nor foe of Konton-Kaze, but was a rival force that might travel west. Just as the man said Wei may attempt to invade Han Zhong, and then set their sights on Shu. That was a poorly advised strategy,
“Why deal with two forces and take more losses? When one could travel through Wan and attack Shu directly?” Yen Wang knew the answers to these questions, regardless. Shu would need aid if that happened. If Wei would seek out and alliance with Konton-Kaze; Shu would be a primary target.

“I see, and you made your point. I welcome the challenge, I would hope Wei would be as foolish to invade Han Zhong; My men and I would enjoy slaughtering them,” He paused momentarily, “I will benefit from this alliance as well, but I need to see how serious Liu Bei is. I’m sure you have doubts about me as well.” He turned to the side and noticed a weed. Yen Wang carefully grasped it and delicately pulled it from the soil, “I want to eliminate Liu Yan presence at Zi Tong, If Shu would grant me this, and I shall be your ally.”

Liu Yan was a threat to both Shu and Yen Wang dealing. Both parties would be able to bond and react to each other’s presence on the battle field

[Liu Bei]

Fang chuckled at the word 'slaughter', not too surprised that such a word was used by the 'demonic' being..however, what did take him by surprise was the fact he seemed to begin to like the man. Hearing the words of his dreams for expansion made the General unaware of what Liu would truely desire from this, however, they had to gain Yen's alliance..otherwise, they knew he would side with Wei. "So you plan on expanding to the West?" The General tried to think as the Imperial Uncle would in the situation, or perhaps was Yen Wang testing how much Shu needed his friendship?.. Not being able to work it out frustrated Fang but knew being quiet was not an option; he had to make the decision on the spot and report back...

"If you wish to expand, the forces of Shu shall not turn their blade upon you; I know that the Master Liu has desires for Chengdu...but has not yet entertained the idea to attack a fellow kinsmen, no matter how distant they may be." Stroking the small beard upon his chin, Fang gave out a short sigh.. It was difficult for him as attacking Liu Yan had not been a topic for discussion within recent councils, but, he knew the day would come. "Your wording, 'if Shu grant you this'.. Do you wish for aid in your attack upon Zitong, or for Shu not to interfere with your actions to the city?" It would allow the General a chance to think over these words, to observe Yen if it was a mere test or truth..not only this, but have the moment to gain knowledge of how Liu would react to the conditions placed before him...

[Yen Wang (Burai)]

Yen Wang smiled as the envoy took a moment to think, about what he had said previously. It was apparent that the man didn’t want to make interpret anything. Being cautious; it was a sign of a keen mind. Yen Wang valued strength; whether it came from body or mind, “Yes I plan on conquering Liu Yan and possibly head north once he is no longer a threat.” Yen Wang summoned an old woman and gave her the weed he plucked. “This garden is much like the battle field. You prepare yourself, and pluck out any weeds that may harm your garden. While nurturing the plants and flowers that live in it.”

As he spoke a bee flew passed his face and landed on a flower. “You see, that bee comes here in search of food, but also spreads the seed of life allowing the flower to flourish. I ask of you the same. Aid me and my men when we lay siege to Zi Tong; I’m not asking for your whole force but a respectful size. I want to force Liu Yan to surrender, and if he fails to listen to reason. My judgment shall erase him.” He stared at the man, “In order to claim what you seek, you have to do something new, take that risk. You are your lord’s envoy, think about the future, will this benefit you or will it be a nuisance?”

As a leader he was going to do what was best for his people and his land. He had his own ambitions and he wanted this envoy to be aware of that. Yen Wang had nothing to hide; it would be wise if he kept his mouth shut about such matters. This envoy seemed to be aware about the condition china was in. Yen Wang would use that to his advantage. He was open about his feelings as a sign of trust and hopes for a beginning of a prosperous friendship.

[Liu Bei]

The future was uncertain, especially to that of Fang and he knew that his expertise were in mere war; perhaps his brother Zhu should have been sent to negotiate terms of actions. Nonetheless, it was the present and he could not risk leaving to think upon these affairs..he knew that Wei were on the horizon and that Yen was a desirable ally for he bordered with Shu; an easy route to attack. Looking to the skies, the General knew within that the 'demonic' being wished for military presence whilst they invaded Zitong. "So you wish aid in return of an alliance?" Another sigh escaped his lips as Fang moved a little from Yen's position..thought was needed and quickly, time was of the escence and the future of Shu depended on Hanzhong being an ally; with them on side, they could not combine their strength to attack Liu...

The General knew that Liu would be infuriated if he did not gain an alliance on his return, he could not risk disappointing his brother who already was concerned with his intellectual abilities. Such thought would not leave his mind, it was beginning to create a collision and annoy Fang that he could not see so clearly; the future of Shu..the future of Liu.. With Liu Yan weakened, it would give both a chance for expansion..whilst protecting Shu from a direct attack from Wei.. "..Master Yen.." Fang turned swiftly upon his heel to gaze back at the Governor of Hanzhong, a man who was beginning to transform in the eyes of the General; to one he would enjoy the company of..one day.. "Shu shall aid you in your endeavours, for your friendship means a lot to Master Liu. When you send the signal for your expansion West, I shall personally aid you upon the battlefield." It was set, he knew that Liu would do anything to gain allies at this crutial time in Shu's survival and they could both take something from this alliance to allow each Kingdom to flourish further. The General's eyes burned with ambition, the seriousness was ripe and he only hoped that what Yen spoke of would be recipricated...

[Yen Wang (Burai)]

Yen Wang smiled as the envoy accepted the terms. This would benefit them both in the long run. Perhaps the two factions could prosper together. He wouldn’t allow his feelings to be expressed freely. “Envoy, I assume you are eager to return to your lord and tell him of the good news.” Yen Wang wasn’t in a hurry to rush the man off. He needed to make preparations of his own to take Zi Tong.

He looked down at his garden, thoughts of war ventured into his mind. He would have to leave his domain sometime and make his presence known throughout China. He wondered how Shu would use his strength. He wanted to see Shu’s ambition. If it was equal to his own Shu would rise above the challenge and become a force to be reckoned with. “Tell Liu Bei to send another envoy, we can discuss our attack further.”