The emperor was glad at the report. He jumped to his feet to speak but this stance wouldn’t stand for a ruler, so he swallowed his words, turning to his ministers.
“What does everyone think of Yu Empire’s envoy? Do we see him or not?
Such an important decision couldn’t be left to the emperor alone, it involved the end of the Great Han as they knew it. It was better to share the load.
So devious was the emperor, knowing the ministers wouldn’t stand silent.
This was the time to show their loyalty for their enemies, or maybe a double change of heart?
And for some, this would be a prime time to get their desired fiefdom from Yu Empire. The wish they had all been waiting for.
It was secretary Wang Yun ho.
“Your Majesty, in war, envoys aren’t killed. This would be a most wrong decision for Great Han to take at such a time.”
He spoke as if Han was the one at advantage, like a true loyalist to his nation.
Those that knew the situation would’ve spat in his face in disgust of how ingratiating he wanted to be with the enemy to have a better life there.
The emperor felt sick for having such a hypocrite among his counsel.
Though since one began, he turned to hear another.
“Since Wang Yun is so thoughtful, we will have him talk with the envoy. I believe he will have Han’s best intentions at heart.”
He had to agree, but sick of this petty man altogether for selling out his homeland.
“Uh, yes, I will do my best to preserve the glory of Han and discuss with the envoy.”
Stumbling for a moment, Wang Yun recovered. He would use this chance to get close to the general of the east army of Yu Empire, even disregarding the dark looks he got for being so blatant about it.
Moments later, Wang Yun was before the gate of Luoyang, ordering the men to let the envoy in.
The heavy gates creaked open and the honor guards were in neat lines with Wang Yun in the middle, waiting.
Wang Yun bent down at the envoy, “I am Wang Yun, a lowly official of my nation. I welcome you to our capital.”
He spoke with utter respect and a most servile manner a turncoat could muster. Just like Qin Huo of Song Dynasty.
“Please rise, sir Wang, it is normal to take time for the message to pass.”
Han Kai was stunned at Wang Yun’s blatant shamelessness, but ignored it since it helped his empire. Why refuse a free gift?
The two men chatted merely on the way to the palace.
They enjoyed themselves showering each other in praises, finding the trip most short.
Wan Yun introduced him to the layout of the palace as well as the various attractions, speaking like a real estate agent.
It was the kind of attitude a traitor had that couldn’t wish to betray his master faster.
Even Wang Yun’s side was looking elsewhere in shame.
Once at the palace, he asked Han Kai to wait in embarrassment, as he reported to the emperor.
In the palace, the emperor asked with surprise, “Wang Yun, is the envoy here? How is he?”
Wang Yun beamed, “Your Majesty, he is already waiting outside the palace for your summons. He is kind and sincere in presenting the Yu Emperor’s greetings.”
“Oh, he’s here. Then bring him in. I can’t wait to meet the envoy of Yu Empire.”
Wang Yun rushed outside and brought Han Kai over to pay his respects to the emperor.
Han Kai greeted with utmost respect and then went to business.
“Emperor of Han, my lord has sent me to express his respect but also to discuss the war.” Han Kai wasn’t one to beat around the bush.
Emperor Ling’s face froze, ‘It’s here! The four centuries of Han are going to end at my hand.’
“Please, envoy, no need for courtesy. Please tell me your message.” The emperor’s words made many officials filled with sorrow, with some even crying.
“My great empire’s army numbers a million, waiting at the gates, filled with generals and strategists. It has trapped the Great Han in this city, experiencing its twilight. I hope the Emperor of Han would mind the people of Luoyang and open the city in a full surrender. Avoid the bloodshed!”
The majestic words flowed out of Han Kai and palling all the officials.
Emperor Ling was the same, covered in sweat. His tone is weak.
“What then will happen to my family after the gates open? Will we be exiled or put to death?”
Han Kai knew then and there the emperor had lost all intent for fighting though still somewhat resistant.
The fear of the unknown that came after kept him put up defenses.
Han Kay smiled to himself as he presented Zhong Yu’s terms. These terms had the emperor scared before, not knowing them, but now he was happy and jubilant, “In that case, I surrender!”
