A Snake Within The Grass... [Yen Wang]

[Liu Bei]

As the Dragon rose from its slumber, gazing upon the land North of its terrain it observed the goings on to friendships that seemed strong from the beast's eyes. Yet, it was far from it, to be seduced by the mere Phoenix calling in desperating for a mountain to be placed before it..the wings were clipped, thus needed something to gain footing. The whirlwind created by the celestial being growing in strength, with speed beyond anyone's predictions. However, who saw the predator within the brush, a being so desirable that it was rarely seen or even caught by the flesh of man. It's scent was of something far tempting than the fruits of the Heavens, a melancholy feeling that could cause arousal of any creature's slumber.. From the Dragon's lair this creature moved, unoticed by those within the skies gazing to the Phoenix attempt to gain power through petty means.

The creature was one of the far South, an erotic figure that came from the forests and seeked prey through the tall grasses of it's own labyrinth. Indeed a Snake of the hills to one so familiar yet remembered for something other than the first meet; from the tales of old it broke through many social systems set in place for the years to come. However, to the Snake these were mere guidelines for those far past it's own mindset and something that it would refuse to yield to. Surrounded by an entourage came the figure from the South, dressed in scales of armour so revealing that it could make even the proudest of male's blush. Indeed a celestial nymph of Nuwa, the skin soft to the touch yet it burned as the hand trailed across it. Many had heard of the stories before her, a stunning tale of being the figure blessed by fire; a deity upon this realm whose fires devoured many a man..and woman.. But, only to those who rattled the Snake, forcing it to rise and place the venomous fangs deep into the skin...

Hips rolled an eight, the eyes glanced over the attires of the Hanzhong dwellers to be met by their own judgement upon her. It was the former Queen of Nanzhong, the white feather headdress and striking blond hair shone from the large entourage that seemed to follow her. A seductive Snake, demanding of the respect of her peers and one not affraid to allow the physical attribute she had taught herself into action... A powerful woman, who had once before gained entry to the Northern cities in the name of the Dragon; yet never had she took to the long grass in order to remain undetected by the one she herself bowed to..

It was Zhurong, a fiersome woman whose fires seemed never to deminish. Furthermore, within her hand was the allusive Snake's tongue that was especially created for her..not to mention designed by her to have a unique technique that would confuse the opponent; while allowing her to be consumed by the dominating world she took great pleasure from. It's sharp blades shone as they approached the guards of Hanzhong Palace; the hips as the Snake's curved body..swerving side-to-side, to move as the creature she embodied. "I hear boy has taken the city and played games with the Dragon; I wish to tempt the creature from its cave." An eyebrow was raised, a quick lick of the lips as the exotic Snake raised a hip and a sultry hand upon the waiste; patience was not her strong point..and keeping her waiting would constantly work in the favour of using the fire within body to consume all...

[Yen Wang (Burai)]

The guards were humbled, by the woman’s presence. As, they gazed upon her, a fevering heat swept over them. They began to sweat feverously. “R—right, you must be here for our l-lord. I-I’ll go get him.” The guard who spoke left his post in a hurry and went to delay the message. He knocked politely and waited for Yen Wang’s orders.

“Oh..What is it?” Yen Wang rolled over; he was stretched out across his bed. Suddenly one of the gate guardians interrupted Yen Wang’s nap. He slowly slid the sheets off of him and sat up, “Come in..”

The guard did as instructed. He opened the doors hastily, only to shut the doors just as fast. “My Lord! Your clothes!!?!?!” The arrival of the exotic woman; her presence created and unsettling restlessness amongst the men. Now the boldness of his lord; what kind of man would greet another man naked.

Yen Wang yawned abruptly and glanced downward. “My body is perfection at its best. A mere mortal such as yourself should admire and gaze upon perfect. You’ll never be able to achieve such greatness.”

The guard opened the door slightly after hearing Yen Wang’s words “Yes M’lord, but there is an ood woman outside; she referred to you as ‘boy.’”

Yen Wang flew to his dresser and put on his pants. As pulled them up around his waist. He glared at the guard. “What did she call me?”

The guard didn’t look at Yen Wang, his tone of voice paralyzed him with fear. “She called you…’boy.’”

Yen Wang stormed out of his room in a violent rage. How could anyone refer to him as such? That insult called for immediate action.

The guard went to the dresser and pushed it closed. He noticed that Yen Wang didn’t put on any undergarments. He let out a long sigh; his lord Yen Wang was truly a deity as he claimed. No man would walk out of his room without the proper attire.

As Yen Wang made his way to the gates, his eyes fell upon an exotic woman. He never had seen such a woman in china. The sight bwfore his eyes stopped him, dead in his tracks. His anger left him momentarily. “I can’t let such meager attraction blind me..” He took a deep breath; fixed his hair and rid himself of the horrid bed hair; he approached the vixen calmly.

“My guard told me, you wish to meet a ‘boy?’ Perhaps you have come to the wrong place…” He stared at her outfit; it did nothing for the imagination, nor did he have to imagine about what her outfit tried to hide. “If you are looking for someone, I’m sure one of my guards would be more than happy to lend you a hand…or two.” Yen Wang turned around slightly. "I am quite busy; if you don't mind I would like to get back to my nap."

[Liu Bei]

It was a mere enjoyance to see those before he stumble over their thoughts, allowing their eyes to play against the flesh that was revealed; over the years a certain mindset had evolved.. Yet as Yen Wang raced towards the gates the Snake took a swift glance of all his forme, indeed something that would be quite pleasarable; but in true form? He did not match to the warriors of her former Kingdom.. All the monstrous men who were beasts in stature, though lacked any intelligence in any form; how muscles rid the mind of any substantial thought. Raising an eyebrow, it was Zhurong's chance, a vixen knew when to act and one with such experience could read each movement with ease...however, there was something familiar about this one...

The free hand was raised to her hair, the delicate hands that had not yet been effected by the harshness of war flicked the blond ploom pinned by the head-dress, slowly it was brought upon the body and trailed the attributes she knew most men observed. As it felt the scales of the breast-plate, a swift bite of the lip was made and soon the Snake made its move..her prey? The now unfortunate Yen Wang... "Guards? They know nothing of the fire you will soon be devoured by, to tempt such a flame is never wise to peons." A sigh left the rouge lips, indeed a confident being and one she would not let loose so easily.

The whip was given to one of the men she had arrived, with, a unit far too big to be a simple envoy entourage..something was array. Now her aim was Yen himself, approaching him as the Snake to it's mate, coiling the body from form to form; using its mysterious gift of hypnosis to stun prey far weaker than her. Only hoping that she found competition within the Hanzhong inhabitant. "You boy, have been acting most suspiciously; thus I appear from the hellfire.. I only hope.." Zhurong closened, the scent of a flower unknown to this land and of course, a natural aroma that could be most pleasing to devils of desire. Eyes focused upon Yen, observing any shift in nerves; wondering if the hypnotic aura could be taking effect of this man. Many would see this fire descendant as a bad woman, one who betrayed the husband she once had; yet, one educated soul would understand that once she threw the title of Queen assunder..she did so with her marriage...a free woman of the pleasures enjoyable to those of the shadows, not caring for judgement as it was easily destroyed with another fancy she had...

The right hand was raised and brought to his jaw, placing a single fingure upon the chin to feel Yen's skin and gain a sense of what she could be dealing with.. It was fresh, with strength behind it; an exciting appeal to Zhurong. The fire filled hands moved, as if the Snake's tail constricted its foe into submission for death. Trailing down his neck the rest of the fingers made contact, and the direction? Of course, to the uncovered chest not caring what any bystander thought; or, perhaps..they simply desired her touch upon them. As the hand reached the top of the chest, Zhurong leaned closer. Scent intensified and her voice deepened for only him to hear.. "..I do not have to teach you a lesson.." The one claimed deity of flames could not help allowing a short sultry chuckle to escape her lips, the Snake enjoyed times as these. All a game to her and one she knew so well, while hoping so did Yen; it would be such a shame for someone who claimed himself to powerful to crumble..just as a former husband did, a lump of muscles that could not withstand the gentlist of touches...

During the words, Zhurong's hand had reached the top of his waist, another giggle one quite playful compared to the former. Stepping back, the Snake knew it was Yen's turn..of course it was his land, but surely he knew where this flame's beginning was. It was not old knews to know the once Queen of Nanzhong had yielded to the Dragon of Shu, Liu Bei.. But why send a creature such as her? In reality, no one knew the Snake had left it's pen.. Turning around, the fierce woman left it to the Hanzhong Lord, his hand was to be delt and slowly returning to the men she had brought awaited what this Yen Wang had to offer as a challenge....

[Yen Wang (Burai)]

Yen Wang watched the woman with a cautious eye. He wasn’t aware of what her true intentions were. If she came to bewilder the men at the gates; she succeeded at that, and could leave knowing that she had accomplished something. She spoke oddly, what flames would devour him? Surely she jests? Yen Wang scuffed as he heard her threat, or perhaps it was speaking about the future.

“When my life is at its end, and I am to be devoured by flames. Let those flames be dazzling! Konton-Kaze will give birth to a violent flame. It will run rapid through-out the country side. The rain shall summon a tide to quench the flames thirst…My legacy shall be reborn..”

The exotic beauty approached Yen Wang; he stepped back on his left leg and leaned back slightly. She claimed that she was the flames that would devour him. Her advancement didn’t end there; she placed her hand to his jaw; she held his chin with a finger. His guards all reacted to the gesture, and readied themselves. Yen Wang lifted his right hand. The guards lowered their weapons and watched their lord carefully. Yen Wang found this woman’s actions oddly amusing and they left him curious.

Her fingertips drifted south; moving from his neck down to his chest. As she explored his chest, she leaned in and spoke into his ear. Her voice touched him deeply, and sent thrills up his spine. His eyes narrowed as she chuckled. She played a dangerous game; a line that most didn’t dare to cross. Yen Wang’s body began to tremble. “My body is over flowing with excitement. ..” Her hand drifted to his waist, and she walked away.

Yen Wang didn’t know who this woman was, but there was something about her that left him breathless. He took a moment to catch her scent. He was dazed momentarily. Yen Wang slowly approached her. “I don’t know who you are…Yet you come to my home, and threaten me in front of all my troops and then you allure me with your touch and words.”

He took a few more steps forward; he stood a foot away from her. He casually lined in, as if he was going to kiss her, but he stopped prematurely from her lips. “I like that…” He swayed his head to the side, and pressed his lips against her cheek and spoke. “You are no ordinary person. Why come here?” He pulled his head back and stared deeply into her eyes. “In my previous life, I would be defenseless against a woman like you..” He smirked and chuckled, “As it stands you are by far my greatest threat.”

[Liu Bei]

The trembles were pleasure, a mere game that even the Heavens would no doubt enjoy watching; place the bet, the hand set aside and the mind focused onto the opponent. However, the firesome woman was happily surprised to see that Yen moved with her, it seemed he was made from more sturner material than others and it excited her..how far could she push him for the strength to crumble; to dominate was her goal.. Listening to his words Zhurong chuckled, part of her wishing their lips had locked. A passion that none other would have felt, the fires between both mixing as one and conjuring an explosion that not even this realm could withstand. Their bodies were now apart from each other, eyes connected for something did not allow them to remove the sight. As Yen chuckled, the Snake licked her lips and took hold of the cloth pants he wore to cover his dignity..pulling him closer to her, the voice deepened once more and she immitated the actions put onto her...

Pressing her chest against his, the hold tight onto his garments, the rouge lips closened to Yen's and it seemed Zhurong was about to place the deadly kiss upon him. Before, the movement was swift and he lips went to his ear; if he would tease her, she would teach him that it was something she had mastered. "..In this life, a man like you would be my slave.." A slow giggle and the release of his attire, however she was not done here. Before pulling away Zhurong moved closer still and allowed her breath to be felt upon his neck, soon her tongue made contact with his cheek..not ashamed to act such with an audience, she trailed down his cheek to the corner of his lips.

"..You know nothing of fire, mere embers compared to the blaze I can create.." With her right hand, Zhurong placed it open-palmed onto his chest..a simple night with him would be interesting, but one that he would not easily forget; to finally find his match.. Within a dominating and fierce woman. Slowly the hand pushed away and left a small space between the two, the Snake having the motives of her presence set first...before she could really play with the man before her. "Word has crossed my ears that a certain being of Hanzhong welcomed a visit from the Blue Banner, turning his back upon that of the Green Banner." It was a distinct revelation of why the Snake appeared from the Grass.. Shu had heard of the recent visit by Cao Cao and one that they knew would not bode for them, a deal was set but one they did not know. "The Dragon may not wish to act upon it, however, the claws do not mean the Snake can take action."

Raising an eyebrow, Zhurong licked her lips again, glancing to the open chest one more time; before making eye contact again. "..Why has the Governor transformed into a mere servant of the Blue Banner? Or, have you placed yourself into the position to become the 'favourite' of Cao?" Another chuckle, this time it was a mere daliance into an insult. Zhurong had suggested that not only had Yen Wang became the dog of Wei, a mere servant kowtowing to a master..while perhaps placing infront of him, and the guards surroudning them, that Yen Wang wished a more sexual, carnal, desire from the Wei Leader, Cao Cao...

Zhurong moved closer, the fire once again turning upon the man as the body was pressed against closer than before.. Now the hips made contact, coiled to his and brushing every inch of covered skin. Leaning to his ear, the voice lowered for only Yen to take in. "I would hate to have to turn you into my play thing." Another giggle, to be honest the firey vixen would take great pleasure in having him perform this role..perhaps a man who was not so flaccid when it came to her desires. Though, she would not simply let him off so easily, closer still. Swiftly, Zhurong took his earlobe in between her teeth; nibbling..gently tugging. She knew the power she could have and simply was testing the man before her, yet there was an attraction; how could their not be.. Nonetheless, the Snake was here on her own interests and pulling away once again her eyes refused to leave his sight...

[Yen Wang (Burai)]

Yen Wang was in awe this woman was truly different. A higher being; separated from the commoners. Yen Wangs smirk stretched and became a grin, as he watched her lip her lips. She pulled him close; pressing her chest against him. The texture was intoxicating; Yen Wang was finding it rather hard to focus. As her lips approached his, he stood still. He was confident; he didn’t think she were so bold to steal a kiss. Yen Wang wouldn’t care if she did. She continued to speak nonsense. A deity such as he, would never be a slave. He took a moment to think about the gesture. Would it really be slavery, if that what he wanted?

Thoughts of being her slave echoed through his mind. He didn’t see anything wrong with it. He found it to be quite enjoyable. She made her way to his neck and to his cheek; her tongue stroked his cheek. Yen Wang’s men were all shocked by the gesture and began to talk amongst themselves. Yen Wang took a deep breath and exhaled. His troops were amazed; they didn’t know their lordwas capable of such restraint. They watched in awe, as she licked him.

The woman put more distance between her and Yen Wang. She finally gave away her disposition. Her wording was odd, but Yen Wang understood it all, perfectly. Her Words left a bad taste in his mouth; Yen Wang’s lustful gaze began to dull. His stance began to stiff. The woman positioned herself in front of him, and whispered into his ear, and began to nibble and tug at his earlobe.

As she pulled away he stared into her eyes. “I haven’t turn my back on Shu; We had an agreement, one that hasn’t been filled. Perhaps Shu has no interest in filling it. So I made the proper adjustments…” He placed his right hand on her neck; slowly traced her throat upwards to her chin, with just his fingers. “Cao Cao doesn’t own me, he wants to exterminate Shu, and offered me an alliance, so I would aid him in his cause. I told him I would deal with Shu, alone.” He inched her chin up and leaned close to her lips. “To do this, I plan on conquering Wan, but Cao Cao may go behind my back and offer Liu Bei a truce.” Yen Wang told her bluntly of his plans.

He suddenly placed his other hand on her waist. “He offered me a city, why would I turn that down?” The question he asked was retheorical. He gazed into her eyes; there was something about her that he found irrestible. “You intrigue me…that is one of the highest compliments I can give…” He paused, and inched his lips toward hers as their lips were about to meet. He slid his hand that was on her waist to her posterior. Yen Wang brushed his lips against her, and slowly bit her bottom lip and pulled it down. He let go of it, as he pulled away.

[Liu Bei]

Zhurong could not help feel at an advantage to hear the plans of Yen so easily, however there must something within it..where they truely his plans? If they were, could he trust the knowledge that she would not place the rumour into the wind? Or does he want this to happen, without fear of a backlash; an alliance with Shu and Wei, would benefit him in moving towards his goal. However these thoughts were eradicated when he took their tease up a notch, a touch she had not felt for some time now and one that was since her former husband Meng.. As the fingers trailed her skin tingled and the fire surged throughout her body, it was an interesting feeling and one she wished to further. As he bite her lip, she could not help let a brief gasp of pleasure from it..she could not fall for the romantics, fire must be present and currently so it seemed...

It was close to a kiss, yet as he pulled away for another time the Snake could feel the eyes of both men watching in amazement; from the Shu banner they averted their eyes, while those under Yen wondered how they were still standing. Perhaps Yen had found his match within a woman? "Did you not wish another to arrive to settle the final deal?" Taking a breath, she felt a throbbing sensation within her bottom lip..it was teasing her to go further.. "Indeed your assumption is correct, for Wei are present in land territory threatening an alliance..the Phoenix it seems is weak, thus begging for protection from the Demon and the Dragon." A short chuckle left her lips. "To take Wan before Cao does? This will benefit both parties...for I would prefer someone like you to guard my rear." Another giggle and raising of the eyebrow, pushing forward Zhurong pressed against him again..this time the hands were more animated. Both took to Yen's body and gently trailing up the chest, tickling any muscle that came in contact with her fingers. I quick flirtation of him being the one she'd rather have gazing at her, than the Leader of Wei. So that was Cao's underhand plan, to offer a city far from his own jurisdiction and to cut part of his empire away? Though Yen did not know it, he was officialy the slave to Wei; he was indepted and one that Cao would not let be forgotten. "To deal with Shu alone? Though a demon, you shall always become lost when facing a Dragon; for the Snake's venom shall slowly consume your being.."

A threat, though hidden among sultry seduction..simply tempting him to go against the alliance so Zhurong could have her way with Yen. The right hand hastened and took to his hair, into the fist a clump went; no caring if pain was suffered by Yen..a small hint to how dominating this Snake enjoyed. Pulling his head closer to his, their lips came close for another time. "To bend for the Phoenix, shall cause the bite of the Snake..." Yen's head was pulled slightly to the right as Zhurong's mouth moved to the now exposed neck, to symbolise her words she began a nibbling that gradually grow harder.. Indeed Meng had losed something quite unique.. "I'd hate to drain the life from someone, like you.." This was her returned compliment, rare for her to truely enjoy a man's company; as many fell far from the pleasure she most enjoyed, crumbling at the first step. Yet, here he was sturdy as the mountain allowing nothing to break. "A demon is nothing without fire." The small games were not enough for the fire descendant, wishing for more..flames? Another tug and the head was moved to face each other, the eyes locked. Suddenly Zhurong placed her lips upon his, allowing the fire within her surge through his body, chest and waist pressed against his to complement the curves in both their bodies. A gasp from the Shu men as they witness such an overt move from their mistress, though many could see it coming from her...

As if both being devoured by flames, the Snake allowed the poison to take into Yen's body; placing the stamp upon him..a kiss so intense that it would not be easily forgotten. Before the blaze came to its peak, Zhurong pulled away and let go of his hair, biting her lip slightly in enjoyment of their embrace. "You shall learn, I am not of the same creation as the maids you surround yourself; I am not affraid of any man..whether Phoenix, Demon, Dragon or Tiger.." The hands returned to her side, one resting on her hip..licking her lips she knew already that his plan to take Zitong with Shu, would be at her feet. For a hidden motive was beneath the one Zhurong first revealed, indeed she was sent by Liu..to reinforce Yen attacking his kinsmen. "Do you dare play with the fire, or shall you wavor in fear of getting burned?" It was a two way question; one, would he be satisfied in having her as his support for Zitong, two, did he dare go further and face the wrath of crossing a woman such as Zhurong?....

[Yen Wang (Burai)]

The woman spoke about his request; Yen Wang forgot, that he asked for another envoy to arrive. He needed to coordinate a plan to asslaut Zi Tong. He was pleased to hear her agree with his plans. The thought and imagery of guarding the woman’s rear flooded Yen Wang’s mind. His eyes outlined her frame. He let out a soft moan. Suddenly the woman approached him again; her hands roamed his body. His muscles tightened and flexed from the slightest touch of her fingertips.

Yen Wang listened to her attentively, until her one of her hands made its way to his hair. “hmph…” She expressed her strength through such subtle means. Strength was something he valued greatly. He allowed her to display her strength. She tugged his hair; the force caused him to wince. She moved his head slightly, and then bit into his neck. His neck began to throb and ache as she nibbled. His guards readied themselves once more. Again, Yen Wang dismissed it. She tugged again, he stared into her eyes for a moment. She leaned in abruptly and pressed her lips against his, as their lips met he could feel a burning sensation within his chest; he resisted at first, as the kiss went on he joined in.

Yen Wang was about to be swept by the tide when she pulled away. This left him feeling empty, or half full. He stared at her confused; he didn’t know what this feeling was, but he was curious. She pulled away from him, and asked a question. He ignored the question, and approached her; he stared into her eyes deeply. “Before I answer your question. Don’t let that fiery passion wither and die.” He gazed at her face, unsettling warmth spread through his body like wildfire. “If you are going to be by my side, I will to invade Zi Tong. But, before we do that… follow me to my room..There are...er..matters I wish to dicuss”

Yen Wang didn’t wait for a reply, he quickly turned around and entered the palace. And, made his way

[Liu Bei]

The Snake like eyes trailed the form before her, a sensation crossed that had never dared venture further over the threshold of passion..could it be? No, to the firesome feline such feelings were left in a dimension she could never understand. Yet Zhurong could not help but think what of Meng, how would he manage to know that his once wife had turned to the hellfire of the Nether Realm? A being that did not care for the monogomous pleasures, giving into carnal desires beyond her own flames..to be consumed by something far greater than yourself?.. The desires drained her, the kiss leaving a brand upon her she had never felt. As Yen moved away, Zhurong felt her body desire the touch once more...it was magnetic, giving the life to a demonic power that had never been felt before. To the dangers of his own life..turning upon an ally for another, to stare destruction with such ease.. Never had the Snake felt such lingering a fire upon her skin, to feel the very burn she caused many a man upon her own..it was unbearable..

Something had changed, it was a mistake to kiss those lips and take a chance at biting the skin of a being she would know she'd one day have to eradicate from this world... To follow to the chambers of this man? Though the exterior did not show, within Zhurong felt it not safe to enter.. However, how could she refuse after it was her own being to tempt the life from this man. No, legs began to walk and allowed escort by Yen.. "Discuss?.. Such confidence you have to share the fire of the Nether Realm.." With a light chuckle, knowing that the men would take worry for her entering without being armed. But, Zhurong gestured for them to stay for she knew that this Yen had no desire to harm her..it seemed, at all, that he would rather replace a limb than do harm; perhaps an over-exaggeration... Into the fires the Snake allowed its body to burn, following the Hanzhong Lord recklessly into the mouth of the demon and knowing whatever was before her..could be the fall of her own strength that she enjoyed so much; dominating men before they had the chance to act upon her.. Looking upon his back as they walked, she could not foresee what would be behind the doors, merely wondering the dicussion at hand...

[Yen Wang (Burai)]

Yen Wang slightly tilted his head to see the vixen follow him. He had no interest in attacking her. He would gain nothing of it. Yen Wang felt an odd feeling; one that he couldn’t dismiss. “Is such a thing possible?” He tried desperately to dwell this feeling. Thoughts of Burai slithered into his mind; He was tending to the wounds of a woman. He espaced his thoughts and took another glace at the woman. “Why can’t I focus…” Watching her brought calmed hid heart. “This feeling..” He muttered, as his eyes scrolled her up and down. He missed placed his footing and tripped. He stumbled gracefully for a few steps and fell.

Luckily he stumbled toward the steps, and the bottom step cushioned his fall. He quickly hopped up and dusted of his pants, and tended to his hair. Yen Wang tried his best to hide his embarrassment. “…” He acted like nothing had happened and hurried up the stairs. “Not too far now…” Once he reached the top of the steps he walked down the hall and opened the doors to his bedroom. Yen Wang entered quietly and made his way to the balcony, and closed the doors and curtains. “Come please shut the door behind you.”

Yen Wang heart began to flutter, he placed his right hand on his chest. He could feel his restlessness growing. He wanted to pursue those desires, but he couldn’t allow himself to indulge in those feelings. He needed to tell her about his plans. This would be a vital point of his expansion and the relationship between Shu and Konton-Kaze. More importantly he could see where she stands. He looked to the side; He didn’t want to place her in danger, then again she wasn’t his subordinate. So why should he care. The more he thought about the issue the more it haunted him. He was growing more fond of her. He was curious if she felt the same way.

[Liu Bei]

Zhurong followed, watching the form continue the path further into the heart of Hanzhong, fear was not present; to think that he would strike her down did not enter the mind. A glance back. A fire that had not been placed into action for many a year, the volcano of the Heavens soon knowingly ready to destroy all in its path...the path with her own body strapped to the earth, not being able to escape the lava that would engulf the Snake's entire being... It seemed that Yen too was becoming nervous, butterflies taking flight and leading the mind astray. She watched as he tripped and fell down to make contact with the stairs; it was a sign that perhaps, maybe, he could be feeling the same as she.

"Are you alright?" It could not be helped, the words purged from the rouge lips with such a soft tone, there seemed genuine care behind the texture and showing a vulnerability of such a strong creature. Indeed there was this side to all, however never would Zhurong believe it would be true for this person; a man who was dislike all those that she had as suitors. The moment changed as Yen led her to the very doors of his private quarters, what would happen next both did not know. It was strange that even now Zhurong could not read the sequences, foresee the dangers that could be laid before her; not physical dangers, but those of the heart.

As asked, the doors were closed behind her with Zhurong's hand lingering upon the handle watching the Hanzhong Lord move to the balcony of the Palace..it would be a view most magical and one that she feared the most. To pludge into a realm that she had never truely stepped in, masked from the pain of her previous marriage and veil of the future she could not read..nor control. Taking a breath the Snake slowly approached him, retaining the same mannerisms as she appeared with; they were a part of her, nothing for simple show and performance. To her, each step lead her closer to the depths of the Nether Realm, a flame that she had not felt for some time; consuming every limb that it came in contact with. Skin so hot that even the Sun would seem a mere gentile breeze, Zhurong did not know whether it was returned and the reasons behind her being present in Yen's chamber. What did he wish of her?...

"What would bring me to the balcony of a man who promised to destroy the Snake's lair?" Melancholy tones left her lips, there were hints of confidence while a tender feel to something deep within her. As the eyes gazed upon Yen once more, she could feel them..the embers burning her feet, the flames taking hold of the flesh; all she could do was wait..wait to observe him, to hear what he wished to tell her...

[Yen Wang (Burai)]

Yen Wang glanced up at her, his cheeks rosined. “What is your name, I after everything that took place? We haven’t introduced ourselves. I am quite aware that you know of me. I know nothing of you.” She was so different from the women he had met as of late. The more he stared at her the faster his heart beat. Yen Wang found this odd, but enjoyable.

“Before you tell me you name, I want you to be an envoy for myself. Go to Zi Tong and try to convince Liu Yan to surrender. This gesture will spare his life and troops. It’s within Liu Bei’s and my best interest if he does so peacefully…” He gently took her left hand, “I will have my troops outside his city’s wall. If he doesn’t comply, we’ll get rid of him…Together…”

[Liu Bei]

Zhurong looked upon the surroundings from the balcony, a sight elovated by the company she had found herself in..never could she have estimated this outcome. At first she planned upon threatening Yen to turn the blade that was pointing to Shu away, to direct it towards Wan so the Dragon had a chance to strengthen the stronghold into the South. However, it was something unspoken and incoherent that the Snake could not decode; this frustrated her. Previously with Meng, Zhurong believed that it was two beings creating one entity and a marriage that would become as the mountain throughout time. How little she knew, that he was nothing that she imagined thus could not wait to escape and luckily for her their marriage was made null and void...

Looking to the hand that seemed so naturally to take hold of hers, a shiver was sent throughout every muscle and it seemed the winds of heaven had reached around her..thrusting her into the skies, to saw with the eagles and gaze upon the lands. Yen spoke, his words seemed so soft and the later of his speech resonated deeply into her heart; as if he had taken a dagger and thrusted it into the chest. The path each foot stepped on had become so new to Zhurong, Meng never awoken souls within her that she did not recognise... Closing her eyes, the exotic beauty took a short breath to hear the plan. It seemed that many had misconceptions of Yen Wang, the demon of Hanzhong..a kind soul whose first strategy was to save the lives of men, it struck her...

"I shall do as you wish.." It was all that could leave her lips, tones gentile and smooth as the breeze that now surrounded them. As the eyes opened to look back at Yen, the butterflies within began to take flight and refused to land again, her hand not wanting him to let go of her's. Slowly, her figure pressed up against his. This time everything had changed, Zhurong's actions were not to provoke shock or even to seduce and test how far she could push his masculinity...truth was found and something naturally genuine shone from the hazel eyes of the Snake. Her free hand took hold of Yen's hand. Suddenly, without true control of her body, Zhurong had leaned further and placed her lips upon his..it's fire surged and passion overcame the firesome woman. A kiss so deep with emotion it could not be compared to the previous kiss, for there was something different; gentle, soft, caring...true... It was held for a longer time than before, as if she did not want it to end a duration that seemed to slow and cause the winds to hurl them both into the Nether Realm...

Leaning back, the eyes could not leave Yen's, she did not know what to do..for once in her life, a man had made Zhurong nervous and it was a feeling far too alien to her. "...Zhurong..." Both hands let go and the strength that she could muster took her feet towards the door.. "I shall meet you upon the border, if..." Her feet slowed down, something inside screamed from the heart and hoped to the Heavens that Yen would halt her from leaving so soon..even if to speak nonsence, just to savour such a moment that may never be had again. He was in an agreement with Wei, to destroy the very entity she served with the loyalty of any soldier; the Snake could not betray the Dragon...

[Yen Wang (Burai)]

Yen Wang was more than pleased, she listened to reason. Her words struck him; he took a moment to collect his thoughts. But, she didn’t give him much time. Her body pressed against him; she took a hold of his and and moved forward. Yen Wang assumed that she was teasing him. In response to her advance he stood still. Their lips met; he was caught off guard, not by the kiss, but the feeling, his heart skipped a beat. He was swept away by sheer bliss; she broke away slightly stared into his eyes.

“She must be feeling the same way…” Thoughts raced through out his mind, the pace of the thoughts could only be matched by the beat of his heart. She finally told him her name. “Zhu Rong? I like it, it suits you.” She later continued and said that she would meet him on the border. Yen Wang quietly approached her and wrapped his around her lower stomach. He placed his cheek of the side of her face. “There is no need to be in such a rush. I appreciate your determination, but unlike you my officers aren’t as eager.” He swayed his head back and kissed her cheek, “I don’t want you to go…stay with me.” He said as he gently kissed her cheek again. He let go of her and moved to his bed, he quietly sat down.

After a moment he pat the spot next to him, hoping that she would take him up on her offer. “Zhu Rong, honestly someone has to take the lead, Who’s it going to be? I’m going to sit here and tell you everything that comes to me. ” He placed his hand on his chest, in attempt to calm his heart. “If you have something to say,You should say it right now. You give me a feeling that I never felt before and I love it. This feeling is impossible for me to ignore,” He took a breath and sighed. He wasn’t certain about what she would do

[Liu Bei]

It was an attempt at swift wall to guard from the feelings she did not wish to experience, only hoping that Yen would allow her to leave. He didn't. As he approached, the air became thicker and presence something celestial, but it was the arm he placed round her stomach that lost her mind. Zhurong could feel her heart fall from grace, a position that she had forced upon it to be immune from any man's touch; yet, with him, it seemed as he tore away so easily to reveal the vulnerable flesh within. Cheek to cheek, the eyes closed to take in the scent of the Hanzhong Lord and knew it was this moment she would savour, never to forget even though one day their blades would be turned upon each other.

Her body refused to move, listening to his steps and taking in the words he spoke..it seemed that Yen too felt as she, the demon of Hanzhong being soft within and the one claimed fire deity consumed by the very fires she could create inside others. "Before I acted as I would to any man, believin you to be nothing more than a weak fool like my former husband." Still Zhurong could not move from where she was, as if the feet had moulded into the ground. The mention of Meng was dead, their seemed no emotions for a man she once spoke of adoration; though the years of knowing him had placed the hand of death upon both.. He did not look at her the same and the Snake's heart was no longer his. Closing her eyes, a tear slowly ran down her cheek...for the first time the warrioress was scared.. "Never have I been consumed by flames such as you, this worries me. Afraid that it would only be this day to have such warmth; after all, are you not the one who promised to destroy the Kingdom I fight for?" It was clear that she could not turn around, or simply, did not want to turn around. To look at the Yen and fall completely to the floor, knowing that her heart was no longer her own..that it belonged to him. Why was their feelings with the agreement in the air.. So many questions that Zhurong could not comprehend let alone answer for herself.

All the time it was her to take command, but with Yen Wang, the Snake desired to be lead.. Taking a breath, the life returned to her feet as was able to lift both from the floor; her direction? .. To the side of Yen. However, Zhurong did not make eye contact with him, too affraid of the new feelings she felt and the future she would have to tear to pieces. "I cannot ignore the heart that now yearns, but I'm too affraid to allow it to yield..." Slowly her hand reached out to his, trying so hard not to look into Yen's eyes. Within there was a battle she knew she was losing, one that would have her heart easily opened; ready to be devoured by the Hanzhong Lord..an action she now desired and hoped to happen, but could never place them into words; or words that would be coherent...