So this isn't the Finally Found You update ALOT of people have been waiting for, but at least it's something! And yes, I know that for the past two years (I think) I've been promising a oneshot, and here's an update at last! Now before anyone frowns after seeing the pairing- I can explain! I did promise another Yu/Xiao oneshot, and mark my words, that WILL be posted soon! Much sooner than you think! I know this is the third story I've put up that's focused on Ce and Da, and those of you who are not major fans of this couple are anxious for some more Yu and Xiao fluff- but rest assured, there will definitely be some more of that coming up- both in a oneshot, and in Finally Found You.

I actually decided to write this story after putting in a good deal of thought into it. Let's just say I somehow got inspired by an idea for a story which i thought could be quite moving and romantic! I also apologize profusely for not updating Finally Found You. I promise you, things won't remain the way they are with that story for much longer. Once I get a real break from college workloads, I will actually put in alot of time in making it up to you. I know I haven't made a single change to my fanfic this year, but I will! I don't wanna lose any of you awesome readers, so I'll be sure to make the next chapter count:)

In summation, this story is going to have seven chapters- not so very long ones, but long enough to be able to make comfortable reads. The plot isn't going to be as complex as Finally Found You's, and there will be only one major setting; plus, the story will remain centered on only two characters :). Certain others will make minor, surprise appearances here and there, though! I'm positive this story will make a very pleasant one, and that all my readers will enjoy it! I hope it doesn't get discriminated against with regard to reviews:P. You all know well by now that your reviews are what keep me motivated to keep writing ^.^

So, to all you gracious and generous readers/reviewers out there, here is my fourth fanfic (which will soon be followed by the promised fifth :D)!

Enjoy.

The first lily, like all the others to follow it, was elegantly wrapped in snow-white satin, from the bottom of the stem to the base of the flower. Only the pure white petals fanned out of the delicate casing's opening, emitting a radiant, gentle glow in harmony with it. It was early morning, one with no sunshine, and dew drops had already formed on the petals, giving the flower an even fresher appearance. The sight of them caused her to wonder in sweet, delighted awe how long it had been lying under their majestic cherry blossom tree. The blossoms' tiny petals were gently floating down towards the parcel, lightly landing upon its perfection and further enhancing it. Its startlingly white aura contrasted with the tree's bright, snappy pink sharply enough. But despite this, she doubted that this first unusual sight she beheld since awakening could not be more spellbindingly beautiful.

She had spotted this first white lily easily enough, and she hadn't even been looking for it. He had insisted that she promise him not to look for any of them, his eyes bright with excited pleading, and, not being able to resist his eagerness, she had given him her word. And how glad she was that she had given it! For she hadn't been awake even half and hour, and already she'd found his first glorious surprise! How had he known? How had he known she would visit this place the first morning after he left? It seemed he knew her better than she gave him credit for. Her heart sang with joy, and the first genuine smile in hours upon hours graced her lovely face.

She had tried not to absolutely run as she made her way towards the present she knew belonged to her. Her smile stretching even wider, she knelt down beneath the cherry blossom's branches and tenderly held the swaddled lily in her soft, slight hands. With great care, she twirled the slim casing around, noting the fluidity and crispness of the precious material, breathing in the sweet scent that the lovely plant was able to emanate even through its precise wrappings.

Now, she felt her eyes moisten slightly. A lump came to her throat as her shaky fingers caressed the lily's soft, curved petals, as they stroked the yellow and orange tints at the heart of the flower. He had actually done it. He'd really been serious about this. He really had. Oh, she'd never doubted his sincerity. She knew he'd always meant to. But she hadn't been sure of how well his idea would work. She knew one thing: it definitely wasn't easy for him to, being so far away and in the midst of a campaign. Some would have called it near-impossible for him to send her such a precious gift in conditions of war. But he'd managed it, just like he had promised he would.

Her heart pounding steadily, she set about unwrapping the precious flower, her smile never leaving her face. She wanted to hold the lily itself in her hands, before putting it in water when she returned to the palace and safely stowing away the rich fabric. The moment the last twist of satin was undone, something slight and slim fell away from the stem and fluttered onto her lap.

Another surprise!

She was filled with even more joy as she took up the perfectly folded letter in hands that shook more than ever. Running her fingers along the edges, she sighed in happiness. How fortunate she was! How grateful and dear to him she felt as this moment! To be able to read what he had written for her, over and over again. She meant to hold this moment dear for the rest of her life, this first, delicious moment of anticipation.

Holding her breath, she unfolded the letter, and began to read.

My Precious Da Qiao,

How'd you like my first surprise? I knew that you'd go back to the place where we first met as soon as you woke up. How did I know that, you ask? Well, sweetheart, to answer your question, let me ask you one in turn. I've known and been in love with you for how long now? What was that? Only seven months? You're kidding! Well, let me just say, as short as our time together has been compared to how long it will be, already I feel like I've known you forever, my love. That's how I know everything you're going to do in my absence whenever you miss me, before you do it. Arranging these surprises for you will be a snap, darling! You'd better prepare yourself for all the loving I'm going to send you, because mark my words, there's going to be alot.

I'm sorry for all the pain I've caused you by leaving. Trust me, if anything, I feel as hollow as you right now- maybe even more. But honey, I promised your father I would keep you safe when he placed you and your sister under my protection all those months ago, remember? This is me keeping that promise. Cao Cao's forces have been growing more and more powerful to the North. They're pushing our borders now, and, as you know, already a couple of skirmishes have broken out among the peasants who reside on either side. There were scores of casualties and more than a few deaths. I can't rest idly as my people, my civilians, are being killed, Da. That's why it was my duty to declare war, and to protect what is mine.

Woah! I might have been spending way too much time with Zhou Yu recently! Listen to me, Da, discussing strategies with you! But I'm sure you don't mind. You've always much preferred intellectual discourse over fighting, haven't you, my love? I guess that's why you and Zhou Yu get along so well. I was talking about you to him last night after we planned out first attack together, and- oh, wait. When have I not talked about you to him? Or anyone? You got that right, never. Gan Ning and I talked about you, too. He really isn't a bad guy. That's why I don't discourage whatever feelings he has for my sister. He's got a great sense of humor, too. He told me, "How's about I down a drink every time you bring up Da? No, forget that, I'd probably die of alcohol poisoning in about three minutes... and I'm a pirate!" Funny, huh? I thought you'd like hearing about that. He's got a point, too. You're always on my mind, always.

Da, I understand how much this distance between us hurts you, trust me, I do. But by protecting you from that punk Cao Cao, I'm securing our future. I swear to you, I won't allow him to lay a single hand on you- I'll be damned if I do! The same goes for Xiao. Heaven help him if he tries to get to either of you. I've got Yu helping me make sure of that. All I ask is that you wait for me. I don't know when I'll be back yet- but as I promised you before I left, at the beginning of every month that I know I'll be away, I'm going to send you a white lily, just like this one. But whenever you get one, please don't be upset knowing I won't be back for the whole moon. Instead, be happy, knowing I was at least able to send you this flower, with my love. It's the best I can do for us, so please try and understand.

Hey, Da... you remember when we first met, don't you? I know you do. Yeah, I can't get it out of my mind either. You've never looked more perfect than you did that day. The moment I set my eyes upon you, I was enchanted by that breathtaking beauty of yours, by that time-stopping smile. I didn't think anything could charm me more. And then you spoke. And I was enchanted by your sweet, angelic voice all over again. Falling in love with you was easier than breathing after that first meeting. I'm so grateful for the day your father decided to pick me to protect you during these times of war... If he hadn't... Oh my, I don't like where this thought process is going. But you know what would have happened... He would have given you and your sister to that scum Cao Cao, who would then protect you from me! Da, I'm not going to lie, the thought of him keeping you away from me fills me with so much anger I can barely hold my quil straight!

Alright, I feel better now... I'm sorry if that made you imagine things you don't like thinking of. All I want you remember right now darling, is how we first met. Because that's all that I can think of, whether I'm sparring with Taishi Ci, or discussing matters with Sun Quan. And, also, it's what this first lily you hold in your hands is in honor of. That's why I put it here, for you to find, my love.

I swear, Da, I'll do whatever it takes to win this war, and return right back to you. And then, I will make you my wife. Want my word, darling? As you wish. I swear to you, Lady Da Qiao, that I, Lord Sun Ce of Wu, will do everything in my power and more to marry you. Therefore, I promise to return and ask for your hand in marriage, and to then marry you. Now, how'd you like that vow? You'd better believe it, sweetheart, because your man's going to make it happen. I love you, Da. Never forget it.

Yours and yours alone,

-Sun Ce.

Tears were now coursing freely down Da Qiao's cheeks. She clutched the letter before her so tightly, as though doing so would bring him back into her arms. She re-read the letter, twice, thrice, and then four times before holding it to her heart along with treasured lily and dissolving into silent sobs, both of sadness and joy.

Oh, how she loved him. How she missed him and longed for him. Where could he be right now? What was he doing? Was he awake? Was he thinking of her, too? Or was he asleep, and dreaming about her, she she'd dreamed of him last night after she'd cried herself to sleep? He'd said he didn't know how long he would be away from her for. She hoped it wouldn't be too long. Oh, how she prayed it wouldn't be too long! But then, even a day away from Sun Ce seemed like too long a time for Da. How was she to survive this separation? She hated being away from him, she just hated it furiously! If only she could be with him right now! By his side, in his arms! She didn't care if he was on campaigning grounds. She didn't care where he was! She would choose to be with him no matter what, anywhere was heaven if she could be with Sun Ce.

She cursed her inability to be of any use to him on the battlefield. If only she could help him fight, she could have been with him right now. She didn't care what she had to do as long as she could help him. As long as she could be with him, always. If only she wasn't just some burden he'd been forced to protect-!

Da shook her head jerkily. No. It wouldn't do to think such thoughts. That's what Ce had told her, and he'd been right. It would only serve to make her more upset. Instead, she tried to clear her mind of sorrow and anxiety. She did her best to fill her head with memories, memories of the day they'd first met just like he'd asked her to. At first, she tried recalling it as perfectly as possible.

And then, she didn't even have to try anymore. She didn't even have to look for it. The memory came to her as easily as did sleep whenever she was in his arms..

Flashback:-

"Sis! Sis, look, we're here! I can't believe we're actually here!"

"I know, Xiao. I... I don' t think I can either."

"Wow... Jian Ye Palace is so big! I'm gonna like living here, Sis! What do think?"

Da Qiao smiled at her sister lovingly as the younger girl pressed her hands and nose against the carriage window as they rode up towards the grand, splendid palace of red and gold.

"I think I would, very much."

Not a lie, but not entirely the truth either. Although Da knew that she and Xiao would be well-cared for at Jian Ye Palace, she also knew that she would miss her father terribly. Why did the land have to be at war like this? She didn't like fighting. She didn't like it one bit. Why couldn't everyone be at peace with each other?

Da sighed. She hoped she'd be around people of the same mentality as hers during her stay at Jian Ye Palace.

She turned to look at her father beside her, who surveyed his beautiful daughters kindly. He patted Da's hand in empathy. It seemed her father could always tell when she was pondering matters over.

"Don't be so anxious! I told you myself, didn't I? The war will be over very soon, my dear. And then I will come to fetch you back home myself."

Da and Xiao looked at Qiao Xuan with wide eyes, hoping that what he said was true. Da wished she could believe him, but sadly, her fingers were twisting together. She knew that the war would most likely drag on for a few more years. It saddened her to think that she would be away from home for so long.

"Papa? May I ask? Why did you bring us here for protection? Didn't you consider sending us to... to Lord Cao Cao?"

Qiao Xuan shut his eyes for a few seconds, a crease appearing in his brow as he considered Da's question.

"Yes, Da Qiao, I did. Lord Cao Cao has been an old friend of mine, and I owe him quite a bit of my good fortune. However, we are native to Jiang Dong's soil, which has long fallen under Wu Territory. It would seem like an insult to our ruler if I had handed to of Wu's duchesses over to the Emperor of Wei. But why do you ask such a question, dear? Would you rather I entrust you to him?"

"No," said Da quickly, and Xiao shuddered beside her. It was true. She was not fond of that man who, whenever he visited, would always eye herself and her sister... inappropriately.

Qiao Xuan sighed heavily as he continued.

"True, Lord Cao Cao has been emperor for much longer than our own lord. He would be more adept at keeping you safe. But I fear his intentions for you, my girls. And I do not question our Emperor's abilities. Already word of his great deeds has been spreading through the lands faster than he can conquer them. No doubt he will protect you as best as he can. Do you understand, Da?"

"Yes, Papa."

"That's my clever daughter."

Da managed a smile at her father. She didn't doubt his word. Qiao Xuan did not take his daughter's safety lightly. But she couldn't shake of the fact that Wu was a rapidly increasing empire under their relatively new ruler. Such an expanding kingdom surely invited more strife and battles upon it. Da sighed. She hoped fervently that she and Xiao would always remain safe here. She rested her head on Qiao Xuan's shoulder, while Xiao did the same to his other shoulder for the last few minutes of their ride.

"I wish you didn't have to send us away, Papa. I wish we could stay and help you through this," she whispered.

All Qiao Xuan did was kiss his elder daughter's forehead lovingly.

The carriage rode on. Presently, they came to a halt. Da looked out of the window, more eagerly than she thought she'd be. She could see that the sun was just beginning to set. The sky was painted a beautiful orange and gold, coloring the lush green fields, trees and gardens with an ethereal glow. She could see before them an enormous, magnificent flowering cherry blossom tree, some of its petals gently floating downward to a lone figure who stood under the tree's branches, presumably awaiting them. Who could that be, Da wondered? Someone their lord had sent to collect them?

Beside her, her father smiled with delighted approval.

"See! The young Emperor himself has come to greet the two of you and escort you around the grounds! How courteous of him to do so... Quickly, Da dear, hurry out and greet him! It won't do to keep such a model, generous lord waiting. Heavens, it seems Xiao has fallen asleep! I will be out to present you two as soon as I awaken her. Go, child, go!"

"Yes, Papa!" said Da hurriedly, preparing herself to descend the carriage. She'd rarely seen her father so flustered before. Her heart beating with the realization of the finality of what was happening, Da allowed the carriage chauffeur to open her door, and climbed out to meet the Emperor of Wu who stood several feet away.

For a second, the lingering sunlight fanned on her face, causing her to avert her eyes from him, her hand trying to block it. Then, as the sun gradually continued its journey into the west, she lifted her head to make eye contact with her future guardian.

Her eyes widened. Before her stood a much younger man than she had expected. He couldn't have been much older than herself. He was fully grown, no doubt about that, as she would be very soon. He was very tall, and very built, as an emperor of his standing ought to be. He had impressive broad shoulders and muscles, and he held himself high and regally.

Da looked more closely at his face... and her mouth dropped slightly. Never had she seen so handsome a man! Was this truly the emperor she'd been slightly dreading? There was nothing threatening about him, despite his quite powerful stature. His eyes were shaped like almonds, and were a sharp silver, his nose was strong and manly, and his gaze at her was steady and, she decided, welcoming; encouraging.

Then she stepped forward out of the sunlight to greet him.

Such a change his form went through!

His arms, which had been folded, uncrossed themselves, and fell to his sides. Astonishment crossed his face and eyes as they fell on her. He almost stepped forward himself, but stopped himself, hesitant, his eyes never leaving Da's face.

Da blinked. What was the matter with the Emperor? She decided to pretend not to notice. Clearing her throat, she smiled at him, surprised to find herself nervous in his presence.

"Greetings, My Lord Emperor. It is such a pleasure to make your fine acquaintance. I thank you profoundly for consenting to protecting myself and my sister during these troubled times, and even more so for venturing to greet us yourself."

She bowed graciously, and looked up.

He still hadn't moved. All the while she'd been talking, he'd seemed transfixed at her face and voice.

A second later, he stepped forward and took hold of her hand, which was still outstretched from her bow.

The moment he touched her, a jolt of warmth and excitement ran through Da. She was bewildered at the feeling. Was he supposed to do that? Take her hand like that? Was that supposed to happen when he did? She had no clue. She hadn't been touched so spontaneously before.

Then he spoke, and she instantly forgot all her qualms at being touched by him.

"The name's Sun Ce," he said, in the most wonderful voice she'd heard from a man. "What's yours, my lovely Lady Duchess?" Da was captivated by the sound that filled her ears. His voice could both soothe and amuse; it was deep and refreshing enough to inspire and entertain. Sun Ce. A name she'd never heard before. A name that personified strength and determination, laughter and sunshine, justice and honesty. No name could befit him better.

She smiled up at him demurely, gazing into the intensity of silver eyes which reflected her own. "Da Qiao," she whispered, completely forgetting that her father was supposed to be the one to introduce her. His face was right above hers, both shadowy and bright in the receding sunlight. His mesmerizing eyes were looking into hers. Her heart began pounding, almost audibly, and a hot, prickly feeling spread over her face.

Several pink petals floated gently onto her head. Almost absently, Sun Ce brushed them away with extreme gentleness, as though any unnecessary force would damage her beyond repair. He let his hand linger near her face for a few seconds, between her ear and cheek, touching the apple-blossom color her face had turned. At his touch, her heart leapt to her throat.

"Da Qiao," he repeated, as though intending to remember her name forever. It sounded magical in his voice. "I'm enchanted to meet you."

A slight smile tugged at the corner of his mouth, and Da loved the sight of it instantly. Without even minding how saying such a thing might sound, she said it as well.

"I'm enchanted to meet you, my lord."

Somehow, bizarrely, a thought ran through Da's mind. It remained there until her father and sister hurried to join the two of them as they continued standing under the cherry blossom tree together.

I am going to like living here.

Flash Forward:-

Da was smiling through her tears, smiling with pure joy at the golden memory. Once again, she blessed the day her father had decided to place her under Sun Ce's protection rather than anyone else.

Raising the lily and letter to her face, she gazed at her dear love's presents once more.

I love you, too Ce. Hurry back to me soon. Please.

Still smiling, she rose to her feet and looked up at the beauty of the tree above her. Her smile widened. The dear, lovely tree... the tree where they shared so many memories... The sun had clearly risen now. It was still early in the morning. Everyone would be having breakfast by now.

Da turned and began making her way back to the palace. She would have breakfast later. First, though, she would write a letter of her own.

And there you have the first chapter of this not-very-long-at-all story! Please do remember to review and tell me how you liked this idea! Remember how reviews are what motivate me to keep writing lol. Next chapter will be up in a few weeks... or when I think I have enough reviews, whichever comes first! Let me know if you want to keep reading.

Thanks :)