A/N: Hey all! I apologize for the late update! I was so busy with stuff and I kinda got distracted with DW8 XD IT'S SO AWESOME! It inspired me to write more DW fics!
Anyway despite all that, I manage to finish the 10th chapter! Yay! And it's currently the longest chapter I've written! YAY! XD
Cao Pi – Zihuan
Zhang Fei – Yide
DW belongs to Koei! Lijuan Ai, Dark Chaos and story are mine!
Warning! Some OOCness of some characters! Now on to the chapter!
Chapter 10 – My heart belongs to you, Family and Friends
"Xiahou Dun." Xiahou Dun perked up and turned to see Cao Cao at the door.
"Cousin." He straightened on his seat beside Ai's bed. Cao Cao entered, his eyes falling to Lijuan Ai's sleeping form.
"Has she?" Dun shook his head as he rubbed his face.
"Perhaps you should go back to your room and rest." Cao Cao suggested as he pulled another chair, placing it beside Xiahou Dun and sitting down.
"No, I'm fine." Cao Cao shook his head.
"I don't think Ai would be happy that you are neglecting your health for her."
"I'll deal with it when it happens." Cao Cao chuckled.
"Are you sure about that?" Dun looked at Ai.
"I promised her that I would be by her side when she wakes." Cao Cao smiled.
It's been 3 days since the battle of Wan Castle and they had returned to Xu Chang. To their surprise, Hua Tuo was in Xu Chang and had decided to visit after news had easily spread of her efforts and state. It was he that had taken care of Lijuan Ai's injuries and checked on her welfare.
"She has pushed her self too hard. She is heavily fatigued and had lost quite a bit of blood but she will live. Honestly, I told her to not over exert herself! Silly girl…but I am quite glad that she has found a place to call her home. You take care of her well Lord Cao Cao, she is a very special girl and I have come to love her like a daughter. I will be staying here for the time being until Ai is recovered." Those were Hua Tuo's words. Cao Cao and the rest of Wei were grateful for his aid.
Ai had been asleep for 3 days now, recovering and for those days, Xiahou Dun had been at her side; Waiting and watching over her, even as the other officers paid her a visit.
"What do you intend to do once she wakes?" Cao Cao asked.
"…I plan on telling her…how I truly feel." Cao Cao inwardly smiled but outside, he remained calm and serious.
"I'm actually surprise that you had waited this long." He had to say, he watched as Dun reached out and gently touched Ai's cheek with the back of his fingers.
"That battle…it opened my eyes. I felt the rage, the despair, the sorrow and the emptiness but most of all…the regret. Regret that I had lost Ai and I never even managed to tell her how much I cherished her, how much I adored her warm smiles, how much I admired her gentle and kind heart…and how much I loved her." he said softly; his eyes, which was raw with emotion, looked on at Ai's sleeping face.
Cao Cao knew that Dun loved Ai very much but to hear such heartfelt words…it left him quite speechless. Xiahou Dun was no romantic but hearing his words just now…Cao Cao knew that Lijuan Ai had become Xiahou Dun's world and he would go to hell and back for her if necessary.
"Then you better make sure that she hears those words from you. Don't let her slip from your grasp Xiahou Dun." With that said Cao Cao stood and left.
"I will." Cao Cao paused at the door and smiled before leaving, closing the door behind him.
Xiahou Dun sighed as he ran a hand through his hair. Cao Cao did have a point though, he had been neglecting his health to stand by her but he honestly didn't care at the moment.
Losing Ai made it hard to breathe and his heart felt like it was being violently ripped apart. He was willing to kill a whole army all by himself just to release the anguish and despair he felt, until now even though Jia Xu was now part of their army. He hated the man with passion and some still held quite the dislike towards him for what he did to Ai.
"If you were awake right now…I have a feeling that you would be scolding us for harbouring such hatred towards him even though it is his doing why you are in such a state." Dun said amusedly. He gently held Ai's hand with his; it gave him comfort to feel that it was warm. It was a sign that Ai was alive and well.
"I hope you wake up soon Ai…not seeing you smile and laugh is making everyone depressed. Dark Chaos doesn't even want to leave the stables and has been down ever since; even your tigers are missing their mistress though Yuan is sacrificing himself to keep them happy and energetic while Cai Wenji is taking good care of them. I'm still amazed on how you managed to get them to be so behave and obedient." He chuckled.
"Guo Jia is surprisingly not flirting with every woman in sight, Xu Zhu has been eating less, Dian Wei and Cao Ren are often training just to get out of their depressed state, Cao Pi was been quiet and has been spending more time with Ang and Mengde. He had realized as well that he almost lost his older brother and father and is making up for it. You really changed that boy Ai, before you came he was so cold and quiet, now he's happier and actually smiling often, talking to everyone and spending time with his father and siblings. It had also hit him hard when he heard you were injured. I can't imagine what he would do if he heard you died…he would probably turn back to his old cold self again." Dun sighed before letting out a yawn, not realizing until now how tired he was.
"Please wake up Ai…your family, Wei needs you…I need you." He leaned and kissed her forehead before settling back to his seat and it wasn't long he had fallen asleep.
= Later…=
Lijuan Ai's stirred as she slowly began to drift into consciousness. She blinked a few times, she moved to sit up but felt someone holding her hand; she turned and her heart swelled at the sight.
There at her bedside was Xiahou Dun asleep; at some point he moved from his sitting position and was now sleeping on his arms, his face facing hers but he kept a firm yet gentle hold on Ai's arm. He looked so peaceful, it made Ai smile.
"Yuanrang…" she slowly sat up, he twitched at the movement and let out a groan; Ai watched him as he slowly woke, and he looked up and froze.
"Good morning…or at least I think its morning. Huh, I think it's actually noon." She said chuckling; Dun sat up despite his body's protest, though mindful of her injuries, embraced her. Ai was stunned.
"Thank god your awake…you have no idea how worried I was." Ai slowly wrapped her arms around him as best as she could.
"I'm sorry to have worried you so much. How long was I out?" He sighed and slowly pulled away but kept a hold of her hand.
"3 days, everyone has been worried and quite depressed." She frowned.
"I'm sorry for worrying you all." He smiled.
"We're just glad you're all right Ai…" he went quiet and Ai grew worried.
"Dun?" he looked at her, the sudden eye contact made Ai's insides squirm.
"I love you." She froze at the sudden confession as she felt her heart stop for a second before it began to beat faster, her eyes wide as they could be as she looked at Dun.
"W-What?" Did she just hear what she thought she did? This better not be a dream or she'll be really, really disappointed.
"That day…when Mengde and the others came back without you and told me what happened. I felt it; the rage, loss, despair and regret…Mostly regret as I realized that I would never have the chance to tell you how I truly felt for you." His eyes still on hers as she felt her heart race, unknown to her Dun's heart was going just as fast.
"I love you Lijuan Ai, I would be willing to give my life for you as well as my very soul." Tears filled Ai's eyes at such a heartfelt confession. Dun seemed to have taken her tears the wrong way and began to panic.
"W-Why are you cry-Mph!" he was suddenly silenced when Ai grabbed his shirt and pulled him to her in a deep, passionate kiss. He was stunned but responded once his mind had gotten pass the shock, they pulled away breathing hard as they stared at each other, their faces inches apart.
"My heart has long belonged to you Yuanrang…I love you with all my heart and soul." She answered, her eyes shining with tears of happiness. Dun beamed and pulled her to in an embrace, how he longed for this.
"Dun I-Ai!" the pair turned to see Cao Cao and Yuan both shocked at seeing Ai awake but it turned into a grin at seeing the position they were in.
"Mengde! Miaocai!" Ai happily called despite still in Dun's arms, they pulled apart as the two approached her. Cao Cao and Yuan turned to Dun, who was looking away his cheeks red. Ai was blushing too but was happy to see them either way.
"I'm glad to see you finally awake Ai! We were so worried! It was so boring without you!" Yuan said almost sounding like a whine. Ai chuckled.
"I apologize for worrying you all." Cao Cao smiled as he approached her and kissed her forehead.
"Everyone has missed you Ai, Dun here has been by your side the whole time…neglecting his health in doing so as well." Dun glared at Cao but shrunk a bit when Ai's narrowed eyes turned to him but they softened.
"You…you kept your word." Dun could only nod, his cheeks feeling hot again. She chuckled.
"Though I don't appreciate you neglecting your health for my sake, it makes me very happy. Don't worry though; I'll take care of you Yuanrang." She smiled warmly at him and he felt his face heat up and his stomach squirm at the love he could see in her eyes.
"…Did we miss something here?" Yuan asked confused but Cao Cao already seems to know as he looked at Dun. Ai giggled as Dun rubbed the back of his neck.
"I'm happy for you both, so who confessed first?" Cao Cao smirked as Yuan's jaw dropped before he let out a whoop despite Dun's embarrassment.
"You're together?! It was Cousin Dun who confessed first right?" Yuan asked excitedly, Ai chuckled at his eagerness but nodded happily.
"Finally! Thank god! I gotta tell everyone!" Dun and Ai's eyes widen and before they could stop Yuan, he ran out of the room.
"YUAN!" but it fell on deaf ears, Dun glared at the doorway as Ai let out a sigh but smiled as she turned to an amused Cao Cao.
"How is everyone doing Mengde? You are all safe right?" they smiled at her concern.
"Yes Ai, everyone's fine though they are quite depressed since they heard of what had happened but I'm sure Yuan would fix that." he replied as Dun grumbled under his breath making the other two to chuckle, the doors opened again and Hua Tuo entered.
"Master Hua Tuo!" Lijuan gasped. It's been so long since she had last seen her teacher.
"Awake at last, I see" he smiled at her and approached her bedside.
"Master Hua Tuo came here after word had spread about what happened to Wan Castle and to you." Lijuan looked surprise to hear that.
"So fast?" Cao Cao chuckled.
"Yes, the whole land is no doubt talking about you Ai. You were brilliant." Lijuan Ai couldn't help but a bit embarrassed at hearing that.
"I see." She tensed when she saw the serious look on her teacher though and she knew she was in trouble. She already concluded that Hua Tuo was the one to see to her injuries.
"You foolish girl, I've told you before to never overexert yourself! Do you know how worried I was? You could have died from both the blood loss and fatigue! And what's this I hear about you running to hide in a burning castle? Such recklessness!" Lijuan Ai shrunk as Hua Tuo scolded her. She knew she had this coming and took it all in. Cao Cao and Xiahou Dun were both surprised and amused at the scolding she was getting.
"Never thought I would see the day that Ai gets scolded like this." Cao Cao said with a smile on his face.
"…She looks like someone had just kicked her dog or something." Dun muttered; Ai looked quite pitiful but incredibly cute.
"She actually looks quite adorable, doesn't she Dun?" Cao Cao teased grinning, Dun glared at him.
"Shut up Mengde." The blush on his cheeks was enough for Cao Cao though.
"Am I clear Ai?"
"Yes Master Hua Tuo." She replied obediently but they all knew that she would do it again in a heartbeat if it meant saving and protecting her precious family. Hua Tuo sighed.
"I'm glad you're feeling better Ai but I advise that you stay in bed and rest for today just to be sure. Don't push yourself too hard or your wounds might open again. You know what time to drink your medicine and make sure to drink lots of fluids and rest. Understood?"
"Yes Master Hua Tuo." She nodded. He smiled and ruffled her hair.
"Ah! Master!" she whined as he chuckled, she pouted causing Dun's eyes to widen and Cao Cao to snort out a laugh at seeing a childish Ai.
"I'm not a child anymore." She protested but didn't stop his affectionate gesture. He smiled.
"Indeed. You have grown into a bright and beautiful young woman." Her gaze softened.
"Master…" he pulled away and turned to the other two but his gaze rested on Dun, who began to feel uncomfortable.
"You take good care of her boy, if you hurt her in any way I will come after you. I am a doctor and I know every weakness the body has." Dun nodded sweating a bit and glared at Cao Cao who was snickering beside him but he was silenced by a look from Hua Tuo.
"You may be Ai's Lord but I'm not afraid to come after you if you hurt her." Cao Cao twitched but nodded. Hua Tuo turned to Ai.
"I will be leaving tomorrow however you know how to reach me when you need me Ai." Ai nodded smiling, she watched as her teacher and father figure left. She turned to the two and laughed at the looks on their faces.
"I'm sorry about Master Hua Tuo." She said giggling, Dun sighed as he rubbed his face again. Ai frowned.
"Maybe you should-"
BAM!
"Lady Ai!" Dun barely caught himself as he quickly placed his hands on Ai's bed to ensure that he isn't crushed by the combined weight of the officers who suddenly barged in.
"E-Everyone!" Lijuan gasped at seeing them all, she looked to them and then to Dun, who was being crushed by their combined weight.
"Auntie! We're so glad you're ok!" Ang said as he leaned forward on Dian Wei's back, beside Dian Wei was Cao Ren and both were leaning on Yuan, who to keep his balance was leaning on Dun, holding both downed man's shoulder. She cringed a bit at seeing Dun grit his teeth at the weight and anger he was feeling. Cao Cao, who had wisely moved aside, was covering his mouth to keep a laugh from bursting out.
"You had everyone so worried Auntie Ai." Cao Pi said sighing, he was holding onto Cao Ren's shoulder as he leaned forward, adding more weight to the pile.
"Dark Chaos and your tigers have been worried and missing you as well Lady Ai." Cai Wenji said smiling gently, who was thankfully not part of the pile and was standing in front of her bed.
"Lady Ai!" Xu Zhu ran in, Ang and Pi jumped back as Xu Zhu ran crashed onto the back of Dian Wei and Cao Ren which resulted in Dun's face meeting the bed. Hard.
"Dun!" Ai gasped as Dun's shoulder shook with growing anger.
"Get. The. Hell. OFF ME!" Dun roared as he pushed back as hard as he could, causing Yuan and the others to fall back comically. Cao Cao lost it and burst out laughing, tears gathering in his eyes.
"That was hilarious!" Ang burst in laughter as well; Cao Pi shook his head as Wenji looked on wide eyed at what just happened.
"Ow! Why'd you go and do that for Cousin Dun?!" Yuan whined as he rubbed his head, he was met with a glare from Dun making him shrink. Ai sighed but she couldn't help the smile that came to her lips as she watched them all.
"So you two are together now." Cao Pi announced suddenly, Ai and Dun froze and felt their face heat up at the cheesy grin everyone was sporting except Wenji, who was giggling.
"A-Ah…" God, why was she so speechless at this time?!
"Aww! Look at them blush!" Ang teased, the heat on the pairs face intensified but Dun manage to glare at them…which wasn't as effective with him all red.
"All of you get out! Ai needs her rest still!" Dun barked out. They continued to grin.
"You know Cousin Dun, you can just tell us if you want some alone time with Ai. We'll leave." Yuan said wiggling his eyebrows slyly though he gulped when Dun suddenly pulled out his Podao out of nowhere.
"Easy there Cousin Dun." He laughing weakly, Dun swung and all except Cai Wenji, Cao Pi and Cao Cao went running with an enraged Dun after them.
"Oh dear…" Ai sighed, Cao Cao chuckled.
"I'll go make sure he doesn't do any permanent damage. Rest well Ai." Cao Cao said, kissing her temple before leaving.
"Make sure Yuanrang gets some rest! I don't want him getting ill!" she reminded, Cao Cao waved, letting her know that he heard before closing the door.
"That was certainly exciting." Cao Pi said chuckling.
"Congratulations Lady Ai! You two look so perfect together!" Wenji gushed. Ai blushed but was smiling happily.
"Ah yes, thank you. It was quite the surprise for me as well…I wasn't exactly expecting him to confess to me like that." Pi raised a brow.
"So Uncle Dun was the first to confess? Huh, I actually thought it would be you Auntie." Ai chuckled.
"Yes well, he was worried that he might not get the chance to tell me…if I died." Both frowned.
"You really scared us Auntie. When you were brought back unmoving, I feared that you were…" Pi looked away. She reached out and took hold of his hand making him turn to her.
"I'm sorry for scaring you all but I had to do it and I wouldn't hesitate to do it again if it saved everyone." Pi sighed but he nodded in understanding.
"It was really brave of you to do so Lady Ai." Wenji commented. Ai smiled at her.
"Thank you Wenji. I must also thank you for taking good care of my Tigers." Wenji chuckled.
"It was really no problem Lady Ai; they were surprisingly well behaved though some of them have seemed to have developed a habit in following a few certain people." Ai raised a brow.
"Oh, do tell."
"Well, one of the tigers often kept tailing and following Lord Cao Cao, another went to Lord Xiahou Yuan, the two left were often by your door but I think one of them is following Lord Xiahou Dun, the last one I know follows you but sometimes he goes and follows Lord Cao Pi." Wenji explained. Ai looked at Pi in question.
"Yes, it's true. It was quite amusing to watch Uncle Yuan running around and hiding from the tiger. Father at the beginning tried to outsmart it but it always managed to find him, he gave up and just let it follow him. He doesn't actually mind its presence now." Ai chuckled.
"That would be my doing." The two looked at her in surprise.
"What? But you were unconscious Auntie." She giggled and gestured for them to come closer. They did so and she began to whisper to them. She pulled away after and watched their stunned reactions.
"That's amazing Lady Ai!" Wenji said in awe even Pi was quite impressed.
"But me as well?" Ai smiled.
"I have no doubt of your skill but you know how I am Zihuan." Pi chuckled but nodded. He looked out the window to see the sun setting.
"We should get going Auntie, you rest some more." She nodded as Wenji left and Pi was about to follow.
"Zihuan?" he paused and looked at her. She opened up her arms and smiled; he swallowed and quickly dove to her embrace, holding her tight.
"I-I thought you were going to leave me Auntie." His voice shook a bit.
"I didn't mean to worry you so much Zihuan but I did give you my word a long time ago that I wouldn't leave you alone." Cao Pi swallowed but nodded.
"I was so scared." he whispered.
"I know and it's all right. I'm fine now, rest easy." She comforted as she rubbed his back. She heard him sniff a bit making her smile. After gathering his bearings, he gently pulled away and rubbed his arm a bit embarrassed. It was quite cute.
"There's nothing wrong with tears Zihuan, you're human too." She reminded. He smiled.
"Yes Auntie. I'll come see you again tomorrow, rest well." He kissed her forehead and left, his chest feeling much lighter than before.
"He really is such a sweet boy." She chuckled before settling herself to bed; all the excitement had made her quite tired.
"So happy…safe…family…" Ai couldn't help but smile at hearing that before she drifted to sleep.
= The Next Day = Morning =
"Ai?" Ai turned and smiled to see Xiahou Dun, he looked much better than yesterday.
"Good morning." She greeted warmly, he smiled back.
"Good morning, you look lovely." She blushed.
"Ah thank you." Dun looked at her fully; she currently wore a beautiful and elegant long white cheongsam dress, with blue butterflies design, which showed her arms and reached her ankles, it had slits on the side for easy movement and there was a hole on the chest area which showed a bit of cleavage. Her hair was let loose but on the left side was blue butterfly pin; on her feet, she wore her usual heavenly shoes. Over all, she looked as elegant and beautiful as always in his eyes.
"The dress fits you well."
"It was a gift from Mengde." Dun rolled her eyes as Ai chuckled.
"He spoils you too much." He offered her his arm.
"And you don't?"
"…Point taken." She laughed as she took his offered arm and both headed to breakfast.
"Oh they look so cute together!"
"They make such a perfect couple!"
"Their future children will be perfect!" Ai and Dun felt their cheeks flush at all the whispers and gossip as they walked through the castle. Every person they passed would great them, Happy and relieved to see Ai up and about but they also congratulated the two for finally being together. Yuan really knew how to spread news.
"It's kind of embarrassing with how much their gossiping about us." Lijuan couldn't help but say.
"This is all Yuan's doing." She chuckled.
"I think everyone would find out eventually." He looked at her and smiled.
"True. I don't plan on keeping us a secret; I want everyone to know you are mine just as I belong to you. So I suppose I'll let Yuan off the hook this time." He chuckled. Ai felt her face heat up; Dun really has been quite forward as of late. It wasn't a bad thing mostly as it concerned her but she felt so shy and embarrassed about it.
"Y-Yes." He looked at her and chuckled again.
"Come, let's not keep Mengde and the others waiting." She nodded.
"Hey there lovebirds!" was the greeting Yuan welcomed them with as they entered the dining hall.
"Good morning to you to Miaocai." Ai chuckled as Dun rolled his eyes.
"Good morning Ai, you look lovely." Cao Cao complimented. She smiled.
"Thank you brother." Everyone also threw in their greeting which Ai happily returned as breakfast ensued.
"Brother, do you know where Master Hua Tuo is?" Ai asked as she finished her meal and drank her medicine.
"He's gathering his things; he is to leave today after all." Part of Ai was sad to hear him leave so soon but she knew he couldn't stay.
"I see, please excuse me." Cao nodded and they watched as Ai left the room to go see her teacher and father figure.
"Master Hua Tuo?" Ai called out as she knocked.
"Come in child." She opened the door and went in to see him just finish packing his items in his satchel.
"You're leaving so soon?" he sighed but smiled.
"Indeed, you understand don't you?" she nodded a bit sadly.
"I will miss you." He chuckled as he approached her.
"You have changed Ai but I suppose finding family and love does that to you." Ai smiled as she thought of her family and beloved.
"I…I never thought I could be this happy. A small part of me almost feels like I don't deserve it…" Hua Tuo shook his head.
"Everyone deserves happiness child, especially you. You, who have gone through such tragedy and hardships yet despite all that, you remained strong and your heart stayed true. You continue to move forward, never looking back and look at where you are now." he smiled and took her hand, patting it gently.
"You are special Ai; you change people for the better just by mere presence alone, you draw them to you and when they get close, you protect them and care for them with everything you have. And I am proud of what you have become and I will say it again, you are a beautiful and intelligent woman with a heart of gold." Ai felt her eyes water as she placed her hand over his.
"I…thank you for everything that you have done for me Master…no…Father Hua Tuo." He smiled, his eyes turning a bit teary.
"The gods are truly kind, to have given me a child even if not by blood. I am happy and proud." Ai sniffed as he let her go and she embraced him which he returned.
"Thank you for everything Master Hua Tuo, know that you will always be welcomed here." Cao Cao said as he along with Ai and the other officers stood outside to see Hua Tuo off.
"I thank you as well Lord Cao Cao, please take good care of my daughter." Ai beamed at hearing that as she smiled again her eyes tearing up.
"I will miss you father, please stay safe." she embraced him, he gently rubbed her back.
"I will, you take care of yourself my child." All couldn't help but smile at the scene. They pulled away, Ai standing back to Dun's side as he squeezed her hand for comfort. The gesture was not lost to Hua Tuo as he turned to Dun.
"Take care of her and keep her happy understand?" Dun nodded seriousness in his features.
"I will. I swear it on my life." Everyone smiled. Hua Tuo mounted his steed and urged his horse to the gate. They watched as he rode further and further; he waved back which Ai returned before he disappeared into the distance.
"For an old guy, he's pretty tough huh?" Yuan couldn't help but speak up.
"Yes, he is. He may not look like it but he's quite the fighter." Ai chuckled.
"Really?" Ang asked in disbelief.
"Yes, his weapon of choice is needles; he throws it and hits the right pressure point on the human body and you have instant death. He has quite an impressive throwing arm." She replied smiling. It was kinda scary for her to be smiling while saying something like that.
"Wow, looks like you better be careful Cousin Dun." Yuan warned grinning, Dun glared at him making Ai and everyone chuckle.
"You should also be careful of Lady Ai's admirers; lots of hearts were broken when Lord Xiahou Yuan spread the news of you finally together." Guo Jia reminded. Dun rolled his eyes as Ai blinked.
"I think they would be too afraid to actually do anything to Uncle Dun. That and Auntie Ai would probably teach them a lesson." Pi replied. All nodded and Ai blushed when Dun looked at her.
"My lord!" All turned to see a messenger approach.
"Hm? What is it?" Cao Cao was back to being serious as did everyone.
"Lord Liu Bei of Shu has come along with his officers." Now this was a surprise.
"They're attacking us?" Ren questioned in surprise, the messenger shook his head further confusing them.
"Uh…they actually came to visit. They wanted to visit you Lady Ai, they were worried when they heard what happened to you." All blinked in surprise.
"My lord!" they turned as well as the messenger to see another.
"What is it?"
"Wu has come my lord!" Again they were stumped.
"What?" the messenger rubbed his head.
"Uh they said they're here to see Lady Ai. To see how she's doing." Again everyone blinked before Cao Cao chuckled and not long it turned into full blown laughter. All looked at him wide eyed.
"I think father has lost it." Ang whispered to Pi. Cao Cao composed himself and turned to the messengers.
"Very well. Let them in and make sure to welcome them." the two nodded and ran off to do their task.
"You have so many friends in the most interesting of places Auntie." Pi commented as all agreed. Ai couldn't help but blush.
"I suppose…we shouldn't keep them waiting."
"We should still keep our guard up, just in case." Cao reminded as all nodded.
"Lady Lotus! I'm so glad you're all right!" was the greeting Liu Bei said as he saw Ai. Ai couldn't help but smile at the relief that Liu Bei showed at seeing her alive and well.
"You can call me Ai Lord Liu Bei, thank you for visiting me though you didn't have to go through the trouble. I am grateful nonetheless."
"It's no trouble at all Lady Ai and please Liu Bei is fine."
"Brother was really worried when he heard what happened." Ai turned to see Zhang Fei, Guan Yu and Zhao Yun. It was Zhang Fei who spoke.
"Of course I was, Lady Ai is dear friend of mine." Was Liu Bei's response. He could feel Xiahou Dun's stare on him.
"It's good to see you well Lady Ai." Guan Yu said bowing, Ai returned it.
"Thank you Lord Guan Yu." Ai turned to Zhao Yun, who smiled.
"I am also glad to see that you have recovered my Lady."
"Thank you Zhao Yun, I'm surprise to see you again. I had no idea you went to serve Liu Bei…but then again, he is a very good man and his benevolence is a simply amazing." Zhao Yun chuckled as Liu Bei blushed at the praise from Ai. Everyone noticed Dun's glare though, amusing them.
"Indeed. Lord Liu Bei is truly a worthy and fitting lord for me to serve."
"Ah, you praise me too much Zhao Yun."
"But it is the truth my lord." Ai couldn't help but chuckle, Liu Bei was so modest.
"Lady Ai!" all turned to the door as Sun Shang Xiang ran in and stopped in front of Ai and hugging her.
"Lady Sun Shang Xiang!" Ai went wide eyed at her sudden entrance and hug which she returned.
"You're ok! I'm so glad!" she said in relief. She saw Liu Bei and looked at him for a moment before turning back to Ai. Ai inwardly grinned at seeing that.
'Well that was interesting.' she thought as she and Shang Xiang pulled apart.
"Yo! Ai!" Sun Ce greeted as he came in followed by Sun Jian, Sun Quan, and a beautiful looking man.
"Hello Sun Ce. Nice to see you too." Ai greeted as he grinned.
"You look good. Glad to see you in one piece." Sun Quan sighed.
"Brother settle down, you're making a racket." He turned to Ai and bowed.
"It's good to see that you are well Lady Ai. I apologize for my brother and sister's rowdy behaviour."
"Hey!" the two yelled in protest. Ai chuckled.
"It's fine, they weren't causing trouble. I'm rather surprised to see you all here actually; I didn't mean to worry everyone." All smiled at the worried look Ai had.
"It's not a problem Lady Lijuan Ai. We were simply worried for a good friend." Sun Jian assured and Ai couldn't help but remember her father's words.
"Oh! By the way Ai, I wanted to introduce my good buddy here. Lady Lijuan Ai, this is Zhou Yu, my sworn brother and best friend." Sun Ce said grinning as he grabbed Zhou Yu's shoulder.
"Settle down Ce! Ahem, it's nice to finally meet you Lady Lijuan Ai. I must say, your efforts at Wan castle was absolutely impressive." Ai was a bit wide eyed.
"Word really gets around fast, I thought brother was exaggerating." Ai mumbled. All chuckled.
"You were amazing Lady Ai! I really hope we can spar sometime, when you're feeling completely recovered that is." Shang Xiang suggested. Ai chuckled and then remembered.
"By the way, have you met Lord Liu Bei?" Ai said smiling. Shang Xiang and Liu Bei looked at each other and blushed.
"Are you blushing little sister?" Sun Ce teased. Shang Xiang glared and hit Ce in the arm.
"Shut it Ce!"
"You lookin' a little red there brother." Zhang Fei grinned, Liu Bei reddened further.
"Yide!" his face turning into slight horror and embarrassment, Ai and the others laughed. The Wei officers watched as Ai interacted with them all.
"Ai is really something ain't she?" Yuan started. They nodded.
"It's amazing that she could make such bonds in such a short time." Wenji said in awe. Ang grinned.
"That's Auntie for you, hell she made Pi into an actually human being." Pi slapped Ang's arm as his cheeks flushed.
"Shut up brother."
"No need to be shy little bro. It's all right to admit that you were a human Ice cube before you met Auntie." Pi's lips twitched.
"Shut up before I make you."
"Ooohh. What'cha gonna do Pi? Come on!"
"I'll turn you into an Ice statue if you like."
"I'll tell Auntie on you."
"Oh, real mature brother." The other Wei officers laughed. And while everyone was enjoying themselves, Cao Cao was in deep thought after watching Ai's interaction with their visitors. He was suddenly reminded of his promise.
"Promise me that you must also look after the people…Just conquering the land by force is not the way."
At the beginning, he planned to conquer the land by sheer power and numbers but Lijuan Ai had showed and told him that it was not the right path. Usually he would stay with this path but Ai…she changed him and he didn't mind it, not at all. She is very precious to him and he owed her his life, he would keep his promise just as she kept hers.
However, though he is capable of leading an army and controlling the land; he could never understand the people, he was raised in a high standing environment. He looked up and his eyes landed on Liu Bei.
Liu Bei, from what he gathered, was a benevolent and kind hearted man. He was a mere peasant yet had joined the Yellow Turban Rebellion years ago to fight in order to protect and save the people. He had to admit, Liu Bei was indeed impressive in his own way and he understood the people and the people loved him for his good heart.
Sun Jian is a good man as well as he cared greatly for his family and people but still...
"Mengde?" he felt a nudge at his side and looked at Dun, looking at him in question. He turned to look back at Sun Jian, Liu Bei and then Lijuan Ai.
"What are you thinking about?" he asked.
"Hmm. Ai is right Dun." Dun blinked confused.
"I know she is most of the time but what are you talking about?" Cao Cao chuckled.
"You'll find out soon enough." His smile widened when Ai glanced at him and smiled.
"My lord!" all turned as a messenger came in and bowed.
"What is it?" he seems to be asking that a lot lately.
"It's Lord Yuan Shao!" All eyes widen, Ai's particularly.
"Oh please god no! Don't tell me he's here because I swear I will pretend to be in a coma if he is." Ai promised. All laughed at her reaction.
"No my lady, he just sent a letter." Ai relaxed and accepted the said letter as the messenger left afterwards. She opened and read the contents before sighing in irritation.
"What'd he say?" Ce asked curiously. Ai pinched the bridge of her nose as she tossed the letter to Ce, who began to read it out loud.
My dearest Lady Lotus,
I'm glad to hear that you have recovered well; Cao Cao will pay for allowing you to be hurt and to suffer in such a state. If you were in my army my lady, I will always keep you safe and protected! I can promise you this!
I apologize if I could not grace you with my presence but instead I send you this letter that is filled with my affections. I hope I did not disappoint you too much but rest assured that I will save you from the evil clutches of Cao Cao!
I'm afraid that you still need to wait just a little bit more before I can come for you, I know that you are eager for my rescue and I simply cannot wait for the day that we will finally be together.
With love, Yuan Shao.
All were silent, quite speechless before Sun Ce, Xiahou Yuan, Sun Shang Xiang, Cao Ang and Zhang Fei broke into a fit of laughter and it wasn't long that everyone followed except for Dun, who was glaring holes at the letter. Ai pouted.
"It's not that funny. Dear gods! I almost can't believe he was your childhood friend Mengde, he is so obnoxious! How did you ever get along with him?" Ai groaned out. Cao Cao chuckled.
"Patience Ai. Lots of patience." She snorted.
"You have my respect." Cao Cao laughed.
"Oh god my stomach!" Ce cried out as he clutched his stomach from laughing too hard.
"I really feel for you Lady Ai, I can't imagine having such a creepy admirer like him." Shang Xiang laughed out. Ai sighed but blinked as Dun grabbed the letter and everyone stopped and watched to see him destroy it. Yes, destroy.
"Jealous much Uncle Dun?" Cao Ang teased, he received a glare.
"Aww don't be like that! I mean Auntie chose you right?" Ai blushed at the attention she suddenly got from both Shu and Wu.
"You're together now?! Finally!" Shang Xiang cheered. Ai and Dun blinked.
"What?" Ai voiced out her surprise. Sun Jian chuckled.
"It was pretty obvious to everyone that he was very much into you Lady Ai. We're actually quite surprised that it took this long for you to be together." Ai and Dun blushed as everyone nodded.
"I was that obvious?" Dun mumbled to himself. The rest of Wei rolled their eyes which earned them a glare from Dun.
"Uh yeah! Hell, I can't believe you didn't notice how much Lijuan Ai here wants you too." Ce said pointing at Ai.
"Really?" he raised a brow. Many nodded.
"She has been watching you when you weren't looking at times; I've seen it when we were at camp during the Yellow Turban rebellion and the Coalition against Dong Zhuo. I'm pretty sure everyone has noticed it too." Liu Bei said chuckling as Ai's jaw dropped.
"Can we all stop talking about my love life for a second?!" Ai exclaimed in embarrassment, the redness of her cheeks intensified when Dun stared at her. All laughed at her predicament.
"I hate you all!" she whined, it only caused them to laugh harder. Despite her embarrassment, Ai was happy.
She was surrounded by family and friends; it was as if everything was at peace. She wished things will be more like this in the future.
'I'm so lucky to have them.' She saw Dun smile at her as he held and squeezed her hand, she returned it with a smile ignoring the hoots and whistles.
'I'm very lucky indeed.'
End of Chapter 10
And that is a wrap! It was fun writing this chapter and I hope you all liked it. XD
Again I will do my best to update the next chapter, it might take a while since I've been getting pretty busy as of late but I'll try my best for you reader.
Anyway hope you enjoyed this chapter and finally! Lijuan Ai and Xiahou Dun are together! Yeah! XD Hua Tuo is officially her adoptive father! It's kinda scary if the father is a very skilled doctor that knows how to kill you in so many different ways and still get away with it somehow. XD Cao Cao is quite different now ain't he? Cao Pi is actually more human now haha! And I've added Guo Jia as well! Though can anyone tell me when Wang Yi joined Wei? Cause I have no idea, all I know is she joined after she lost her family in Xiliang and declared Ma Chao her enemy. Just some info on it would be fine, I'll be changing things either way. Anyway! Reviews are appreciated as always! Until the next chapter my dear readers! (^_^)