Yan Tianlu quietly studied the stranger before him. The man appeared to be one of the Great Kang Navy soldiers who had just returned to Python Jiao Island aboard the supply ship. After scrutinizing him for a moment, he asked softly, "You are...?"
"My name is Yang Yuanqing. I am the deputy commander of Lord Hu's expedition fleet."
Suspicion filled Yan Tianlu's eyes. "So it is General Yang. What urgent business brings you to me?"
Yang Yuanqing smiled and presented a letter. "Someone entrusted me with delivering this letter to Island Lord Yan, for your eyes only."
Yan Tianlu nodded and took the letter, opening it in front of Yang Yuanqing. When he unfolded the paper, he discovered a lock of red hair tucked inside. His eyes widened at once. He pressed his lips together and suppressed his agitation as he finished reading, then picked up the lock of red hair and examined it closely for a long while. At last, his gaze returned to Yang Yuanqing's face. "You work for the Great Kang Imperial Court?"
Yang Yuanqing cupped his fists. "His Majesty can guarantee Yan Xuanming's life, but he demands a life for a life."
Yan Tianlu rose. His powerful frame radiated an innate sovereign's authority. Yang Yuanqing felt his breath catch. Unable even to meet Yan Tianlu's eyes, he quietly lowered his gaze.
Yan Tianlu said, "To think Hu Xiaotian has a traitor like you at his side!"
Yang Yuanqing said, "What defines loyalty or treachery? I draw my salary from Great Kang, and my loyalty belongs to its emperor. I will serve no one but His Majesty!"
Yan Tianlu gave a cold chuckle and raised the letter in his hand. "How can I believe you? How do I know you will keep your promise?"
Yang Yuanqing said,