Blind Dragon

By: Michael Pelland

Dynasty Warriors Fan Fiction

The only thing she heard was muffled cries of desperation when she ventured farther the next day. Shouts and screams mixed together with a nostaligic fear that whom ever they were it seemed almost infectious. As they drew closer she cradle the long staff in her hand close to her, in some attempt to protect herself. They, who ever they were, were running in the direction she had come from without regard of whom was in their way. She could even make out the smell of horses as the galloped past, not paying much mind to the young girl in their mist. Almost as if something greater loomed over them, giving chase it seemed.

Suddenly she felt something slam against her as she was knocked to the ground. With a yelp of pain the staff flew from her hand and landed on what sounded like wood. Getting to her knees she sighed tiredly as the man who had run into her scolded her.

"What are you blind?" he asked, "didn't you see me coming?" She remained quiet a minute, her dead eyes glazed and unknowing.

"No I didn't see you coming," she said, "as for your other question: yes…I am blind."

The silence enough spoke volumes however it was fleeting. Whom ever it was regained his footing and ran off in the same direction as the others without another word. Dwelling in her darkness she remained on her knees for a time then began the long process of finding her staff again. Feeling around she then caught wind of something else in front of her, something alive. Frightfully she reached forward and touched something with course like hair. She remembered when she had her sight that only one animal could have hair like that. It was another horse that was incredibly taken good care of. She had grown used to smell of horses yet this one seemed well groomed and cleaned. It was almost strange and funny as well. She could sense an imposing figure riding atop it as she used the beasts' strength to haul herself to her feet.

"Who are you?!" a loud voice boomed. She flinched, feeling even smaller than she did before.

"M…my name is Rayne," she answered meekly, "I'm sorry I didn't hear you." Silence again, then she felt something cold under her chin. It took her moment to realize it was a blade with a sharp honed edge.

"How do I know if you're not one of Liu Bie's spies," he hissed. Growing near to panic she thought of running but to where. She didn't even know where she was and wouldn't get far without her staff to guide her. Her hands trembling she tried to speak.

"I…I…I mean nothing," she squeeked, "I'm just wa…walking I've done no…nothing to you. Pl…please don't hurt me."

"Zhang Liao what are doing?" announced another voice from afar. Trying to listen she heard another horse gallop up as the blade left her chin. Calming down some she stood her ground to gain some of her courage back.

"She could be a scout for all we know," said the first. The other breathed aloud in discomberment.

"Think Zhang Liao," said the second, "do you think Liu Bie would send a blind girl?"

"Blind?" said the one called Zhang Liao. Silence again as Rayne could sense him waving a hand in front of her. She may be in a dark room, but she could still feel anothers presence. She remained quiet; maybe this little enlightment would cause them to pass her by.

"Oh," said Zhang Liao, "I had no idea. I feel like a such a fool…threatening a blind girl."

"Never mind," said the first,"our lord will be here soon. Go quickly before they get away."

"Right," said Zhang Liao. She thus heard him gallop off to south where the others had run off to, then she heard the other dismount and approach her. She put her hands up fitifully in some futile attempt to shield herself.

"Its al right, don't be afraid," said the second, "I won't hurt you. Tell me what are doing here? A battle is no place for someone without eyes. Believe me I'm missing one myself."

"I…I was walking from where I had rested for the night," Rayne said, "when a group of men and horses flew past me. One knocked me aside and I lost my staff. I went to…retrieve it and that's when I met…him."

"You mean Zhang Liao," he said, "he can be a bit forceful sometimes but he has a good heart. I'm Xiahou Dun by the way."

"I am Rayne," she said, finally relaxing, "I'm pleased to meet you."

"Well save the aquatinances for later," he prompted, "One of my officers will escort you to the northern most point away from the battle, you'll be safe there." She bowed her head thank you as she heard him mount his horse and take off at a dead run. Feeling something take her arm and lead her she was a bit frightened of this unknown but it seemed it better than what else lay in wait.

"Please this way," said a voice, "I will take you to Lord Cao Cao's camp. You'll be safe there."

"We had three companys on his tail and he still got away?" said an angered voice, as she was lead into a tent. She could tell he was most likely this Lord Cao Cao. For a ruler his voice seemed eloquent if not melodic. It did however hold a sense of power and respect. He sighed indignatly as another voice arose.

"He had a navy waiting for him near the river," she recognized Xiahou Dun's voice, "should have known Chang Ban had plenty of rivers to boat out his people. That was careless of me."

"Anyhow there's no use trying to find him now," said Cao Cao, "alert the men. We'll start marching for Fan Castle at daybreack. Liu Bei will have to keep."

"Yes my lord," said Xiahou Dun as Rayne heard him walk out.

"Oh hello," he said before stepping out the fol, "are you al' right."

"Yes," Rayne said, "I'm well thank you."

"Of course," he said departing. She then heard the one named Cao Cao becon her. The corporal at her side led her to him as he approached her.

"I've never met someone blind before," he said, "Xiahou told me he found you no more than a few yards away from the front line. Dangerous place for a blind woman."

"I…I didn't know there was a battle," she said, "I only got the wind knocked out of me and was sent sprawling on the ground."

"Well luck would have it that we found you instead of some Shu officer looking for an easy kill," he said, "you look tired and like my men you could use a good bath I guess."

She smiled and bowed in thanks.

"We're returning to Fan Castle," Cao Cao said, "I'll let Zhen Ji and her maidens know that you'll be arriving with us."

"My dear I'm so glad you're back safe," said a womans voice. Cao Cao was escorting her this time as he then prompted.

"He spoke of his wife and nothing else the entire time," the Wei ruler announced, "Cao Pi was never known for his modesty."

"Lord?!" whaled anothers voice in humility. Cao Cao only laughed as Rayne tried to stifle a giggle herself. For the leader of a country she could tell Cao Cao had a good if not ambitious heart of gold.

"Ah Zhen Ji," he said, nodding to his right, "this is Rayne. We found her on the Chang Ban Bridge." Zhen Ji looked the girl over and despite the fact she looked like she fought the battle herself she was remarkably lovely. Long blonde hair bound in a ponytail, slender waste and astonshingly tall for a woman, Zhen Ji judged she must have been 15 or 16 years of age. The most striking thing were her eyes. Light hazy blue much like a clear spring day. They seemed to glow like twin jewels.

"Oh," Zhen Ji sparked, "my goodness she looks terrible. It's as if the battles own dirt alone covered her from head to toe." Rayne could feel the heat flushing to her cheeks as she heard her only laugh.

"Fear not we'll have you looking better than even the Qiao Sisters," Zhen Ji beamed, "I must admit I've never seen eyes likes yours…they're so blue! You must be blessed by the Heavens?" Raynes smile faded as Cao Cao whispered something in Zhen Ji's ear.

"Oh dear," she said, her voice heavy with remorse, "forgive me child I had no idea." Rayne shook her head and waved it aside.

"Think nothing of it," Rayne said, "it's my life to be in the dark." Zhen Ji's face was awash in shame. How could I have said such a thing, she thought kicking herself, poor girl…eyes so lovely that will never see. Then with a smile she sought to redeem that fault on her part.

"Regardless you are a guest here and as a guest a Lady of Wei," she said, "you shall be treated as such. My hand maidens will see to your comfort." With a clap three women emerged from the castle and led Rayne away as Cao Cao watched them depart. Zhen Ji stood next to him, her face still recovering from the shock.

"That poor girl," Zhen Ji said, "she's lovely even disheveled. We'll make a maiden of her yet."

"I wish there was more we could give her," Cao Cao replied, "but even I don't have the power to bestow that gift. Keep an eye her, make sure shes treated well."

"I will that," Zhen Ji answered as she marched away.

"Oh and Zhen Ji," Cao Pi called after her, "don't forget your husband."

"Your stomach can wait my dear," she shot over her shoulder with a laugh.

Rayne had been led into a room with wooden floors as near as she could tell. Taking off her sandals she found her suspicions correct as the three handmaidens led her on past the door, closing it behind them. Left to her own she began listening intently as she heard what sounded like water being poured. She couldn't remember the last she bathed. Any river sufficed really but a true warm bath? Her muscles tingled at the very thought.

Suddenly she felt hands upon her as they started to remove the old tattered rags she had been wearing. She grew frightened a moment, telling them she can undress herself but they wouldn't hear of it. Before she could protest further they had stripped her down and began leading her to tubs lip. Feeling the tension ebb she surrendered to them and gently touched the surface of the water. It was warm and for once she seemed to relax as she slowly slipped down into the warmth that covered her like a blanket. Sighing deeply she lay her head along the lip and relished the deep soking. Then without warning they had procured soft brushes and started scrubbing. To tired to give any arguement, to say the least it actually felt good, she said nothing as they scrubbed away the day's worth of dirt that had soiled her for what seemed like an eternity. When they had finished they left for sometime as she heard another enter the room.

"How do you feel my dear?" Zhen Ji asked.

"Better than I have in years," Rayne said, "you really don't have to do this. I was just walking alone on my own. You've been so nice to me and I thank you but I don't want to burden you all."

"Nonsense," Zhen Ji prompted, "you are not a burden, you are my guest here and I will see to it you are brought proper. Well they bathed you. I see they have yet to draw the milk tub. Probably what they're doing now."

"Milk?" Rayne asked perplexed, "don't you drink milk?"

"Of course but it has other benefits," Zhen Ji replied, "just wait until you soke in a tub of it, your skin will feel like silk. Anyways where do you come from?"

"Well me and my mother and father lived somewhere west as much as I know," Rayne replied, "when they died I started to walk east. Father told me to head east on his deathbed. He said I would be safe there."

"Well unfortunately now is the worst of times," Zhen Ji said, "with the Han gone and every warlord in Chin grabing for the thrown this land is anything but safe. In Cao Cao's hands though I think you can finally rest."

"Thank you," Rayne replied.

"Mistress," replied a voice from afar, "her milk bath is ready."

"Ah excellent," Zhen Ji beamed, "you'll love it I promise."

Rayne was a bit reluctant however was a bit curious of this bath. Milk of all things. What she thought was going to be another long tediuos and grueling walk turned out more than she had bargained. It was going to be an interesting time for her.

Cao Cao's face scowled as he overlooked the losses he had endured at Chi Bi. Six companys and 3 of his officers dead due to that multi-boat fire attack that had sprung up out of nowhere. Xiahou Dun had been injured but his medical said he would pull through. Liu Bei's alliance with Zhuge Liang wasn't what he expected. This was going to complicate things. Turning away to look at the days report he heard the door open.

"Not now Xiahou," Cao Cao replied, waving a hand, "I have to figure are losses at Chi Bi."

"Oh," said a different voice than Xiahou Duns, "forgive I will leave you alone."

Cao Cao turned suddenly to see Rayne standing at the door. Much to his joy she was a sight. Unlike the disheveled girl they had found wandering abouts Chang Ban she now stood as a glowing jewel. Long skirt much like Zhen Ji's with a torgue of gold bundling up her long blonde hair. Her skin seemed like soft white silk that seemed to match her gorgeous icy blue eyes. Indeed some of the men admired her for her stunning beauty. Some even said she matched even Zhen Ji. That he couldn't doubt anymore.

"Oh Rayne," said the Wei ruler, tossing the report aside, "no not at all. I'm sorry I thought you were someone else, please come in."

She nodded and began to feel her way toward him. Without a thought he hurried to her and helped her to sit down near his desk. Some part of him actually admired her unability to see. Somethings in the world were not worth seeing anyhow.

"You said you suffered great losses," Rayne said, "Zhen Ji said something about a battle not to long ago. Was it that bad?"

"Believe me," Cao Cao replied, "you need not worry about it, I've had worse. I'm afraid I had little time to admire the Jewel of Guan Du as my men have said. Perhaps I work to much hmm?" Rayne blushed, her smile alone brightening up what had been a dismal day.

"I'm so beautiful as that," Rayne pardoned.

"Oh don't be so modest," he replied, "besides Zhen Ji you've been a great moral booster. They say your smile alone is a blessing of the Heavens."

"The men have said that?" she asked.

"Quite so," he said, "I've even heard a few of my officers wish for your hand in marriage, but I think that will come at a later time."

"Marriage?" she asked.

"Mm-hmm, but I have yet to see anyone with the courage to come forward and say so," Cao Cao replied chuckling. Just then there came a knock at the door.

"Lord," said a young voice, "Lord Zhang Liao has arrived per your wishes."

"Ah thank you Xu Huang," Cao Cao returned, "you have yet to meet Rayne haven't you?"

"Only from what I've heard," Xu Huang said. At that he approached to have a look at her. What his men had said before seemed small compared to the truth. She was very lovely with sad icy blue eyes that he seemed to drown in. Looking away he bowed to her.

"A pleasure Lady," Xu Huang said, "I understand that your eyes have failed you. I must wonder what it's like. You have my sympathy." She shook her head in disgust.

"Don't walk with egg shells all around me," she defended, "I may not be able to see, but I'm not totally helpless."

"Yes," Xu Huang said in shame, "forgive me…I…I'm sorry."

"Don't be," she said, "don't ever be sorry. Regret but don't be sorry."

"Yes regrets are what I'm having right now," Cao Cao said, "we lost nearly 2000 men in that skirmish with the Wu navy. This fire trick that Zhuge Liang made crippled our forces. We were lucky to leave with our skins."

"What did he do?" Rayne asked.

"You need not worry," he said, "we'll eventually take care of this little oddity soon enough."

"Perhaps I can help," she said.

"How?" Xu Huang asked.

"Being in the dark opens up other doors," she said, "things you don't normally think about, you instead find thinking much of."

"Strategy you mean?" Cao Cao asked. She turned her attention to him and nodded.

"Yes," she said, "even a mind as great as this Zhuge Liangs is, he is only human. Describe the next campaign you have in the greatest detail that you can. I may be able to help."

What they thought was going to be an easy battle turned out more than what Zhuge Liang and Zhang Fei imagined. From the scouts they said it was a motley crew of officers that Wei had sent obviously in retaliation to the whipping that they gave them at Chi Bi. Zhang Fei went to dispatch the militia only to find them retreat at the very sight of him and his forces. They didn't seem all that well organized so him and Zhang Fei sent their forces along with Shamoke to deal with them when they ran past a river. However they were not prepared for what awaited them. An entire company lead by Zhang Liao and Xiahou Dun suddenly emerged from out of the water and flanked them. They were using bamboo sticks to breathe underwater. Catching Shamoke and his forces off guard they put them in a pincer move that desimated them. Shamoke himself was lucky to escape alive.

"We have to retreat," Zhang Fei said to Zhuge, "never knew Cao Cao to be this much of a strategist."

"I believe this is not his doing," Zhuge Liang replied, "it's to well organized, to well thought out. We must retreat back to Cheng Du and regroup." As they galloped away Shamoke rode up along side them.

"I've some news," he said, "seems Cao Cao didn't do this. Someone calling themself the Blind Dragon thought of this."

"Blind Dragon," Zhuge echoed, "I fear that won't be the last I'll hear of that name."

Every campaign against Wei so far seemed to end in failure. Liu Bie himself had directed his attention from aquiring Yi Ling to the now strategically enhanced forces of Cao Cao's army. This Blind Dragon seemed to know every feint, every manueveur even their main supply depo locations. It intrigued Zhuge that somewhere in the strongholds of Wei's forces there was someone of equal intelligence as he. Although his subordinates cursed the name he thought of it to be a priveledge to meet the man behind the name. Someone to chew the fat with on his level so to speak.

"Be as impressed as you think," Liu Bie announced, "but this Blind Dragon is thwarting any attempt to retake Fan Castle."

"I'm surprised you haven't aquired the Jing Province yet," Pang Tong replied. Liu Bie rubbed his chin in thought.

"Wu can wait," said the young Shu ruler, "this strategist has yet to show any aggressive movements against us. No invasion, nothing, as if he's waiting for something."

"For what I wonder," Zhuge replied.

"If this Blind Dragon is as good as I've heard the men say," Pang Tong said, "why not send a small force to move in by stealth and capture him."

"That seems reasonable," Zhuge prompted. Liu Bie mulled over the thought a moment. He may not be willing to simply give up. Liu Bie would have to send someone dependable.

"Have Zhao Yun lead this group," Liu Bie replied, "he has a knack for getting the job done."

"What should we do with this Blind Dragon when we find him," Pang Tong said.

"Don't kill him," Zhuge Liang started, "I wish to meet this man personally. Who knows perhaps we can get his allegiance."

"Try as well as you might," Liu Bie said, "I've a feeling he won't simply go with you on his will alone."

Rayne had been walking down the castle halls when she heard the nightwatch call out an alert. Immediately one of Zhang Liao's corporals led her away to a darker section of the castle and told her to wait there. As she heard him leave and close the door she could hear the sounds of swords clashing in the distance. Listening alone she waited for the sign to be all clear.

She didn't hear it at first, however she sensed a change in the air in the room. She wasn't alone, and she was hardly a combat specialist. Carefully she reached for the small bejeweled dagger at her waist. Suddenly she felt someone grab her wrist, and yank the knife away.

"No I don't believe I can let you do that," said a young voice. He had a firm grip that she could not fight. He was stronger than she was and that was no doubt. She reluctantly let go of the blade as he flung it away and placed a hand to her throat. Whimpering she tried to remain as iron willed as she could.

"I'm looking for this Blind Dragon," he said, "where is he?"

He, she thought, how shallow is this man? She decided to play on this weakness.

"I…. I don't know," she said, "he was in the castle garden before. I saw him not to long ago." The irony of it was she said she saw him. Saw him! She was going to remember this. For a moment there was silence, then she felt the warmth of a candle near her face. She could tell he was looking into her eyes for any response. She sighed in despair and looked away.

"By the Heavens," he said, "you're Blind Dragon. A woman of all-." There was silence then she heard footsteps outside the door, no doubt the guard. She tried to scream but the unknown man cupped a hand over her mouth.

"Silence," he hissed. Without the strength to fight him she had little choice but to obey. As she heard the guards march back down the hall, her hope of some rescue faded as he released her. Still holding her in his grip, she felt him clutch her in one arm. She knew what was coming.

"Forgive me," he said, "you're going to take a little nap."

She yelped as she felt a sharp pain to the back of her head. She couldn't feel her legs anymore, as everything seemed to go numb. Into a deeper darkness it was as she fell into a fitful slumber.

"Hello," said a voice, "are you all'right?" She opened her eyes as best she could tell. Her head throbbed a little but what she knew whoever it was that knocked her out tried to be gentle about it. Not that it matters now anyway, she still had a headache.

"I'm fine," she said sitting up, "my head hurts."

"Yes Zhao Yun is very sorry for that," said this new voice, "I hope you find it in your heart to forgive him. He didn't know you were a woman. I doubt anyone knew that before your arrival."

"Who are you?" she asked.

"Well many call me the Sleeping Dragon," he said, "and you are Blind Dragon. A great resemblance it seems. I'm really surprised that a young woman has been the one calling my bluffs. I must say I'm impressed."

She rubbed away the pain in her head paying little attention. Then she remembered the name Sleeping Dragon. Her heart sunk even lower as she recalled what his real name was.

"You're Zhuge Liang," she said.

"Yes quite so," he replied, "I have to say that rolling fire plan at Jei Ting was something. Setting barrels of oil aflame and sending them down the mountain face, that was brilliant."

She said nothing, her fear keeping her teeth together. What will they do with me? She wondered.

"I suppose that I will be put to death?" she asked.

"Oh Heavens no," Zhuge said, "on the contrary you're more valuable alive than dead. And killing you won't solve anything."

"Now that they know I'm a woman," she said.

"Hardly," he replied, "you have an intellect of strategy that rivals my own. Lord Liu Bei will be coming to visit you soon. He wanted to meet the man behind the legend. Now he will meet the girl that has been making of fool of his attempts to restore the Han."

"He will be angry," she said.

"No doubt but to say the least amazed that a woman so young could think of so many ploys," Zhuge said with a chuckle, "our lord is not easy to impress and you impressed him. That's something at least."

"What does he want?" she asked.

"Simple," he said, "my lord only wishes to restore the Han to power. Cao Cao wishes to take all of Chin under his thumb and be damned with the Han and the young emporer."

"He's not as bad as you think," Rayne replied, "he's ambitious, but he still has a good heart."

"No doubt I'm sure he does," Zhuge said, "I believe there is some goodness in all men and women alike. They simply do what they think is right."

"And still do what they know is wrong," she returned.

"Unfortunately yes," Zhuge prompted, "people can be cruel sometimes." Just then Zhuge Liang heard a knock at the door.

"Is it safe to come in?" asked a voice that she recognized before. It was the young man who came for her.

"Yes Zhao come in," Zhuge Liang answered. As he entered he tried to look as much shameful as he was embarrased, however if she couldn't see his face then what good could it do. He sincerely felt terrible about striking her but she couldn't be awake for the trip. He gently as best he could tapped her behind the ear and she went out like a light. Since then he felt he needed to pine for her as what he did was beyond all propiorty and everything else he stood for.

"I…I'm really, really sorry for what I did," he pleaded, "I didn't mean to hit you, but I couldn't think of anything else to do. Please for…forgive me, I am so sorry."

The entire time her face was calm and relaxed, as if it meant little or nothing. She has nerves of steel, Zhao Yun thought. With a nod she accepted his apology.

"At least you are remorseful," Rayne said, "that is a good trait among men, don't lose it."

"Zhao Yun has always been noble at heart," said a new voice, "he has spoken of nothing but making it up to you since you came." Rayne did not need them to tell her who it was that spoke. His voice alone spoke volumes as her hands began to tremble in fluttering fright.

"Lord Liu Bie I presume?" she asked.

"The same," Liu said, "the infamous Blind Dragon, and a woman to boot. What's your name? Your real name."

"I…I am Rayne…I don't know what my family name is…I don't have one," she answered.

"Well nevertheless we have much to discuss," Liu Bie replied, closing the door behind him, "we won't hurt you. In fact…we have a bit of a proposition for you."

Lu Xun was more than dissapointed, he was angry. The battle at Yi Ling was suppose to be a turning point for Wu, an oppurtunity to finally crush the Shu army. However somehow Zhuge Liang saw through his fire attack. When Zhu Ran set his ambush he sent a report saying that an entire company led by Huang Zhong was there to greet him. A few moments later he got word that Zhu Ran was dead, the fire attack thwarted. Next thing he knew a rain of fire arrows suddenly fell all around Sun Quans main camp setting it ablaze. Shu was fighting fire with fire.

"I didn't think it would get this bad," Lu Meng replied. He was carrying Gan Ning who was greevisly injured before. He was unconscious with an arrow sticking out of his shoulder.

"Someone saw through this but how?" Lu Xun replied.

"I doubt Zhuge Liang alone would have known about it," Lu Meng said, "I believe someone else is helping Liu Bie."

"What makes you think so?" Lu Xun asked. Lu Meng layed Gan Ning's limp form on a cot.

"I was listening in on the traffic out there and I heard an officer say they needed to keep to Blind Dragons plan," he said.

"Blind Dragon," Lu Xun echoed, "where have I heard that name before?"

"He Fei," Lu Meng answered, "remember that multi-pronged middle attack where the soldiers were underground. They could have killed Taishi Ci but they let him go alive. I heard that name because he's the one that masterminded it."

"So now this Blind Dragon is helping Shu," Lu Xun said, "why is it then he killed Zhu Ran but spared Gan Ning."

"I heard reports that Huang Zhong had no choice but to defend himself," Lu Meng said, "I saw it, Zhu Ran tried to stab the old man in the back."

"So this Blind Dragon is stopping any advance yet is trying to spare as many as he can," Lu Xun replied, "have you given any thought that perhaps it's a woman?"

"A woman?!" Lu Meng laughed, "surely you jest?"

"Why not," Lu Xun replied, "everything that she has done has been close to what a woman would do. Trying to spare as many lives as possible yet still driving us back. We only lost 30 troops. She's trying to avoid battles."

"So now what?" asked Lu Meng. Lu Xun mulled over the thought a moment. All this time they had been trying to retake the Jing Province from Liu Bie when all along he did nothing to them. It was always defense until now. At that point he truly regretted having assisted Sima Yi in killing Guan Yu. This Blind Dragon was offering something but what he wasn't sure. Then, it finally occurred to him.

"Could it be that…?" Lu Xun said.

"What are your thoughts?" asked Lu Meng. Lu Xun chewed on his lip a moment. If this were a ruse they would have no path of retreat and Shu's massive army would crush them. However if this was what he had thought then they could not miss this oppurtunity. This feud had raged for to long now, he wanted to see an end to it.

"Get Sun Quan in here," the young strategist said, "I have an idea."

Lu Meng nodded and left as Lu Xun followed him to view the dark skyline. It was nearly midnight and still the battle raged in the distance, his forces had no foreground other than the one at present. If this didn't work they were doomed, but it was the only chance they had. They had neither the resources nor manpower to continue a fight against Shu. He was playing a long hand with Wu's fate. Just then Sun Quan emerged inside his tent.

"You sent for me Lu Xun," said the Wu leader. Lu Xun was still mulling over the thought, then he finally spoke.

"This is going to sound strange Sun Quan," Lu Xun said, "but if we want to get out of this battle alive you'll have to trust me. Send report to Lord Liu Bie. Tell him…we surrender."

"I don't believe this one bit," Ma Chao said, "I smell something."

"Even so we can't miss this," Liu Bie said, "even if it is a trap, which I doubt, they're placing themselves in a precarious position. They'll be caught in a rock and a hard place where can they go?"

"They may be trying to target Rayne," Zhuge said.

"In that case I'll have Zhao Yun and his company watch over her," Liu Bie said, "try and keep her at a distance."

"I vague to differ," said Rayne just then. No one had heard her come in as Zhao Yun entered beside her.

"It may be dangerous," Zhuge Liang said, "they maybe trying to capture you."

"Hardly," Rayne replied, "Lu Xun is a gentile like you and I. And if he is as resound as you say then I believe he has another goal."

"What?" Liu Bie asked. Her sightless eyes gazed out into the night as she tried to remember what a peaceful spring day had been before she went blind. With a smile she directed her attention back to Liu Bie.

"What everyone wants," she said, "love and peace."

As Lu Xun stood waiting he couldn't help but marvel at how beautiful Blind Dragon was. Her eyes…they were so different. She was different! Her hair itself looked like spun gold. And tall she was, almost a foot taller than Taishi Ci. He couldn't help but wonder what she looked like in her unclothed glory, as any young man would wonder; she could belittle the Qiao sisters! As she approached he noticed that she bore Guan Yu's Blue Dragon however it was not for battle. It had traded in its use for war and was now a guide for sightless eyes. Stopping before her he bowed deeply as she stood motionless. Obviously she didn't know he was there.

"Lady," he announced, "I am Lu Xun of Wu. It's a honor to finally meet the Blind Dragon."

"Likewise," she said. Her voice was melodic, like one of Diao Chans hymns, "I trust this meeting has relevance?"

"Indeed," Lu Xun said, "if Lord Liu Bie is present."

"I am here," said the Shu lord. Lu Xun could tell he was still bitter at the death of his brother Guan Yu. Lu Xuns face grew solemn, he did not agree with assisting Wei at the time but what choice did they have? Plenty it seemed, they could have left it alone.

"Lord Liu Bie," Lu Xun began, "an behalf of all of Wu, I want to share my deepest regrets and remorse on your brother. We felt we were being threatened and feared invasion."

"That was never the case," Liu Bie said, "I had never even given any thought to invading Wu. My attention was on Cao Cao not you."

"Seemed more to me that your attention was more on the Jing Province," Sun Quan seethed suddenly.

"The Jing Province orginally belonged to Shu in the first place," Liu Bie returned.

"By whose choice the Han?!" Sun Quan said angrily. The entire time they argued Zhao Yun turned his attention to Rayne, whom much to his dismay had bowed her head in silence. He could see tears welling up in her eyes, her breathing ragged and anguished. At that point he had had enough.

"Stop it all of you!!" He bellowed. All eyes turned to him, as his eyes grew enraged. He was downright mad for them making her cry. He wanted to bound and gag the lot of them but then he felt a reushering hand fall on his shoulder.

"It's al'right Zhao Yun," said Rayne. Moving past him she approached Sun Quan.

"Lord Sun Quan," she began, wiping tears away from her eyes, "sometimes…I am thankful I'm blind. So I don't have to see the tyranny and bloodshed of the world." All were silent at this, as if her words alone seemed to bring the world to shame for causing her to grieve. A moment then she followed through.

"What is the most people want above all besides power," she said. Sun Quan said nothing as Lu Xun looked down in thought.

"Does none here know?" she asked. Again silence then an unlikely figure spoke up.

"Peace of course," said Lu Meng. All eyes turned to him however hers didn't she simply smiled. Her smile brightened the bleak atmosphere like a rising sun that everyone around her seemed to bask in her warmth. Lu Xun couldn't help but feel calm and peaceful inside. For once in his life, he didn't feel the war at his back.

"Spoken of the one that grows tired of the war?" she asked. Lu Meng said nothing as Sun Quan looked at him. "We all wish for peace," Rayne began again, "but don't have the will to find it. We are violent by nature, it is the way the Fates created us. It is those of meek of heart that are always struggling, for it is the world that rejects them."

"Peace is a form of mind," Zhuge Liang followed, "we all want what is best for our people but we lose sight of the real goal. Eventually we want power."

"That lust for power dimishes us," Rayne said after him, "and we hurt the ones we love. Love of country, love of people are lost and thus this circle of pain continues no matter how much we try to break it."

"What do you propose we do then?" Sun Quan asked. Rayne remained silent in thought as Zhao Yun watched her. He couldn't stand to see her cry, as if a part of him was dying to see her in tears. It was then that he vowed that no matter if it destroyed him in the long run he would never allow anyone or anything ever again to make her cry. Never again, it hurt to badly for him and her alike. He hated seeing her in pain.

"We can unite all of Chin…and to hell with restoring the Han," Liu Bie said. All eyes then turned to him in amazement. Since the Yellow Turban rebellion he had hoped to restore the Han now he threw it aside?!

"Lord what are saying?!" Zhao Yun asked.

"I'm saying that apart we are strong," Liu Bie said, then looked to Sun Quan and extended his hand, "together we can shake the Heavens. And I will propose this Cao Cao as well. Rayne has shown us that we all seek peace but under our own circumstances without looking to the real truth. The Han is no more…we must see to the future of our children."

"The road to peace is riddled with thorns," Rayne said, "show the strength to walk barefoot through it and the rewards you reap will be great. Love is the gift you give yourself." At that moment Zhao Yun felt her grasp his hand. She wanted peace and dispite himself…he wanted her. For the first time in his life, he just wanted her. She was gentle and loving like a warm spring breeze. She brought peace to his heart, which was all he needed. Even if he never confessed he would still be by her side. He would always be there for her. He would always have her.

"What if Cao Cao doesn't want peace?" Lu Meng then said.

"He will," she promised, "he to grows tired of the war. Him and many others have lost many friends to this war. He wishes to see it end as well, he simply is looking for chance. Cao Cao is good of heart yet you are blind to see it. You must look with deeper eyes than that."

"How?" Lu Xun asked. She directed her attention to Lu Xun and smiled.

"Through the eyes that cannot see," Rayne said.

The peace negotiations were well under way. It seemed Cao Cao actually wanted an end to it all, a unified Chin was what he dreamed of. Instead of emporers however Sun Quan, Liu Bie and Cao Cao were to be nominated as the Three Overlords of the new Shui Dynasty as they called it. It was something never devised of before and the government was different, to which Zhuge Liang, Lu Xun, Sima Yi, Pang Tong, Lu Meng, Zhang He, and Rayne as the Politcal Party. Rayne found herself not to adept at politics however she was a quick study. She would eventually find the concepts of it all. Hearing a knock to her quarters door she beconed whomever it was to enter.

"It's me," said Zhao Yun entering the room, "guess what? I've been place in command of the of the Capital Cities Red Guard. Gan Ning is my Lieutanent…to think we actually clashed swords once."

"I'm happy for you," Rayne said smiling. He remained a moment as she sensed something in his presence bothered him.

"What is it Zhao Yun?" she asked, "I sense something is wrong. What happened?"

"Oh it…it's nothing," he said, "I just wish to congratulate you on getting on the political party. I hear there are now negotiations with the people of Nanman. Zhuge Liang says it looks promising." Rayne said nothing, noting indesicion in his voice.

"I may be blind Zhao Yun," she said, "but I know when one is hiding something. Please…tell me whats wrong." Zhao Yun couldn't say it. How could he? How could he possibly muster the courage to say he loved her? During the peace negotiations with Cao Cao he stood by her side, taking his role as her personal bodyguard. Through it all he still wanted the same thing he felt at Yi Ling. He wanted her but had neither the strength nor will to say so. Now she was putting him in a corner. Heavy with regret she would reject him, he spilled his heart.

"Since we met," he said, "I…I couldn't stop thinking of you. I saw you cry at Yi Ling and I felt as if I wanted to flog them all for doing so. I hated seeing you cry. I wanted…….."

"……go on Zhao Yun," she replied softly.

"I….I wanted to hold you," he said, his voice heavy with emotion, "to give you some comfort. To let you know you were not alone. I wanted to tell how sorry I was for hitting you that night Fan Castle. I wanted to tell you that…your smile alone seemed to brighten a gloomy day. I…I wanted to tell you so much…but I couldn't. I…I've never loved anyone before." She was silent a moment and what he thought would be disbelief she instead, as always, showed patientience and gentleness that he so admired. She reached out for him as he took her hands into his, drawing her close.

"For the longest time," she said in deep longing, "I had waited for you to say that. Remember when I held your hand at Yi Ling?"

"Yes," he said, "I do remember."

"Do you remember what I said as well?" she asked. Zhao Yun touched her face and sighed. He couldn't imagine his life without her not now. For the moment he knew he wasn't alone.

"You said love is the gift you give yourself," he whispered. Nodding she drew close as his lips touched hers. Together they drew into the kiss, in their embrace the world dissapeared, it was just they. Zhao Yun didn't want to let her go as the kiss lengthened, tasting each other in their embrace. Finally drawing away Zhao Yun held her his powerful arms, finally feeling complete with her. Rayne held him longly, feeling his strength protect her. Long had she wished for this since she met him. Though how they met was consequence, still she loved him. Like him she had no courage to say so. That was no more now. As Zhao Yun held her he looked out the window.

"Well Blind Dragon," he said, "where do you think Shui will go from here?"

"No one knows Zhao Yun my love," Rayne said nuzzling his chest, "even without eyes, I see my dreams. Whether asleep or awake they are all beautiful because you are in them."

"Do you see anything else in your dreams?" he asked. Tilting her head up she touched his face and smiled.

"Many things," she said, "even the dark has eyes."

Fin