Cousins for Xiao Chi

"I will be returning to Hu in three days time." Da Yeng Fai replied. He and the other two men were sitting at supper together. In this case, Da Yeng Fai had chosen to host; these men were seeking an audience with Xiao Chi. By opening the introductions with a gesture of largesse he hoped to dispose them even more favorably to Xiao Chi.

"You both are welcome to join my little entourage. Please understand, I do not speak for Xiao Chi. He will make up his own mind and share it as he sees fit. However, as you seek an audience with him, and as I believe he is headed to Hu before returning here to Jin Yang, perhaps you will get to speak with him before he is again consumed by his duties?"

"My cousin and I have heard of you, Da Yeng Fai." The larger man, Chang Lei, said. His bulk was not nearly as large as Niu Pa, yet dexterous hands were fueled by corded muscles. He ate his food with care but there was no doubt he could crush any of the service, and probably the table itself, easily. "It is said you have worked closely with Master Xiao. Is it true that the wind itself carries the plans of the enemy to him from a hundred li away?"

"Well..." Da Yeng Fai started to respond, but the smaller man, Chang Shuang, respectfully motioned to speak.

"Please be aware, Master Da. This is a matter of financial import between my cousin and I." The smaller man winked at his cousin. "Perhaps he hoped to trap you into bragging about Master Xiao and win our wager? I myself have studied the ways of moving units and supplies for large armies and I have applied myself to understanding terrain, weather, and men. It is my side of the debate that while Master Xiao is truly legendary in his talents, they are within the aspirations of a mortal man. Perhaps such a one as myself, one day."

"Each of us has a few assistants." The larger cousin added. "We have looked for a way to provide for our extended families and everywhere we turned it was seen that doors opened for those who served Master Xiao's plans."

Da Yeng Fai sipped his tea carefully while his mind prepared an answer. "More food, gentlemen?" He motioned even before the men could reply, and waited for everything to be replenished before continuing.

"As I am sure you know, I serve Lord Jing. My visit here in Jin Yang is to ensure I am aware of what is needed from my Lord. Perhaps, as you have heard, Hu is an interesting place to be, should one want to find opportunity. However, as you have noted, Master Xiao is unique in his talents and may listen to those who impress him."

"As to the wind carrying plans to our army, let me provide a small insight. It will not answer your question; I feel that is Master Xiao's prerogative. But it may fuel your debate until you speak with him. As you say, he seems to know things mortal man cannot know. My own lord is not unskilled in the ways of stratagem, yet he listens intently to Master Xiao. My lord asks questions and he is not given to superstition." Da Yeng Fai shuddered a bit. "Even though perhaps, among the living, he as more reason to than most. "He understands what Master Xiao says while admitting that he himself would not have thought of the solutions Master Xiao provides."

"Join me in Hu. If I am incorrect, and Master Xiao does not return there, I will pay for your return in Jin Yang and provide a letter of recommendation for both of you. Upon which time you can pose your question personally." He lifted his cup. "To understanding."