Disclaimer: The Dynasty Warriors series was based on Three Kingdoms by Luo Guanzhong. Koei developed the game and therefore all the characters are property of them.

Note : Please excuse my inaccuracy on names and events. I am rusty.

"Frail Old Man?"

Written by Matthew Collins

Chapter 1 : Veteran

Chengdu.

A city in the west of China. Surrounded by forests and dense marshlands it enjoyed adequate natural protection from invaders. Chengdu – also known as "The Riverlands" was the home of Lord Liu Bei, a man of many virtues. He recently acquired the territory from a fellow kinsman – a member of the Liu family. Liu Zhang was the original governor of Chengdu. However, Liu Bei decided to take his land from him by force, for the greater good.

The assault on The Riverlands did not earn Liu Bei much popularity, but after Liu Zhang's eventual surrender. The populace was calmed and Liu Bei was hailed as a true hero by the locals. Also, many worthy generals and strategist offered themselves for Liu Bei's service, each of them bringing their own skills. It was a bright time for the Kingdom of Shu.

Even before obtaining Chengdu, Liu Bei had many strong generals in his service. Most notably Guan Yu (Liu Bei's sworn brother), the legendary swordsman, with his blade "Green Dragon" he was sometimes referred to as "A match for ten thousand men". Other top generals included Zhang Fei, Zhao Yun and Wei Yan. Each of them had achieved a substantial amount for their kingdom. Wei Yan was even credited with the acquisition of Chengdu.

There was another general though. A man of many years. With a ruddy red face with a long grey beard, his green eyes radiated wisdom. This general, from Nanyang, was known as Huang Zhong. At 63, Huang certainly looked his age. However, his impressive spirit in battle was more than most men could match. Truly he was a veteran. However, since leaving the service of his last governor – Han Xuan – he had been the victim of repeated condescending remarks at the hands of other generals, and even the great strategist Zhuge Liang was known to have great doubt in Huang Zhong's ability. This outraged Huang Zhong, and on one quiet night in the city of Chengdu, Huang Zhong vowed that in spite of his advanced years he would prove himself as the mightiest warrior that the Han has ever known. A hero of the ages.

It is around this time that we begin our tale.

Huang Zhong sat arms folded on the wooden chair as he pondered the events of the previous day. There was not much happening. Of course, Huang was thrilled that the public had been calmed and nearly everyone was happy. However, after 3 weeks out of action Huang began to get very bored. His abilities were wasted in this time of peace. With three thousand under his command, Huang Zhong still trained his men every day. Obviously, it was important to be wary in times of peace. There was an old saying; "To secure peace is to prepare for war." Huang knew that with villains like Cao Cao still in power in the North this saying should be strictly followed.

Huang slowly rose to his feet and stroked his beard. "Cao Cao. How long before that man is up to his old tricks again?" he said aloud, to himself. He wasn't expecting a response though.

"I suspect it won't be long. Cao will undoubtedly try to take Chengdu before he passes the torch to his heir."

Huang swiftly turned round, shooting the intruder a quick glance. He had long hair, bound by a white headband. He wore a magnificent white robe, and wielded a feather fan.

"Master Liang!" gasped Huang, clearly shocked at the man's presence in his home. "How did you get in?"

"I persuaded your guard to let me through. My apologies for turning up unannounced, and at this late hour too." Zhuge Liang explained as he paced across the room. He walked in long, confident strides.

Huang motioned for Zhuge Liang to sit opposite him. They both took a seat.

"What brings you here so late?" Huang asked.

"Your voice is awfully raspy, Huang. Are you sure you're drinking enough? You need to keep your strength up. I wouldn't want such an important general to become dehydrated."

Huang was used to this kind of treatment. He shrugged it off.

Zhuge continued; "To answer your question. I was curious as to why you have not been attending the last few royal feasts. Every night there is always one empty chair at your table. Your absence is often disheartening."

Huang chuckled. "My apologies. I have not been in a very social mood lately. Have I missed anything of importance?"

"Not particularly." Responded Zhuge, rising to his feast. "We are having another feast tomorrow though, at the hall of virtue. Won't you grace us with your presence?"

Huang hesitated. Zhuge must have noticed that, because he continued;

"Afterwards we'll be discussing how to fend off the attacking Wei forces."

Huang's eyes lit up at this news. "Wei are coming here, now?."

Zhuge Liang merely nodded, then turned to leave.

'Finally. A chance to prove myself.' Huang thought, his aged lips managed a slight smile as he sat in delight, wandering what merits he could achieve in the upcoming battles.

'Heaven has given me this opportunity. Now I cannot waste it.' Huang thought, as he laughed heartily. "I'll be at the feast, Master Liang." Said Huang, but the strategist had already left.

There was nothing left to do now but anticipate. Realising that the hour was late, Huang Zhong decided to get some sleep.