Disclaimer: I own nothing. All characters belong to KOEI - Dynasty Warriors and Square Enix - Kingdom Hearts II
This story take place from Dynasty Warriors 5 and Kingdom Hearts II.
OH MY GOD!! IT HAS BEEN 34 DAYS!! What the heck has happened?! Oh well, you must know why. Go on, blame me. I know it was ALL my fault for updating so long. But I have some reasons for that.
1.) The mid-semester exam. It wasn't on 15-19 September, but on 15-26 September. The exam was so DAMN difficult but I manage to get good scores. Well, I know you might think that I'm just boasting, but I want to tell you my scores. Just skip this part if you don't want to know.
Math: 60/100 (TT.TT How can I get 60/100? So bad...)
Physic: 100/100 (:D I feel like I'm the happiest person in this world!!)
Chemistry: 77/100
Biology: 86/100
History: 93/100
Indonesian: 71/100
English: 88/100 (quite nice...)
Chinese: 99/100
2.) I was having holiday after the exam. Hey, I'm a human too and I need some time to rest, you know...
Okay... okay. How's the review...?
syah: Finally a review from you! I almost afraid that you wont review, friend! I'm so happy to see your willingness to read (although it's in English, and awfully long, and you don't have any idea about DW nor KH). A review in Indonesia? Doesn't matter to me... Well, you know me. I like making a long story (but I hope I don't bore anyone). And if you say that this story is cool... I'm so glad! :D For the other problems... yeah, I know. I'm still practicing English, just like you! Hope for your consideration...
Josh: I see that you've changed your pen name. Don't worry, none of your reviews seem negative to me. It was all constructive reviews and I'm so glad that you like my story. Well, I hope I can write better for the next chapters and I hope you still continue reading.
Dunrrr: I changed my mind, so don't worry. This is the last chapter you'll read SSX's and Liu Bei's romantic moments. (In fact, I'm also getting bored of writing romantic stuffs about them). About Guan Ping... yeah, the reason I did it because I feel bad for him. I just don't want him to be blamed for Xing Cai's deeds toward Riku. (Besides, my Shu-ist brother insist me to write like that so yeah). And yeah, Gan Ning is as stupid as donkey (LOL) , if I might add (no offense for you all, Gan Ning's fan). Zhou Yu... yes he's nice. I'm happy that you realized that. Oh, and thanks for the encouraging words. Hey, look at my scores!
Enough already, and this is Chap 10!
Wu Capital City: Jian Ye, Wu Palace, Shang Xiang's Room
Shang Xiang jumped from her bed. She was overslept, but she was really thankful of that. If she got up earlier, she might end up meeting Naminé. In fact, she was still angry at her. Not only Naminé, she was mad at Da Qiao, Xiao Qiao, Gan Ning, and Ling Tong too. If she thought further about it, she got angry at Zhou Yu and Sun Ce too, who had invited Shu to the Wu Palace. The conclusion is: she was in a very bad mood today. She felt like throwing anything she could.
Suddenly, the door was knocked. Shang Xiang rolled her eyes and shouted. "What the heck is your business here?!"
No answer, but the knocks could still be heard. Shang Xiang growled and walked toward the door, to land a punch on whoever stood behind the door. She opened the door and raised her fist.
"GET LOS…"
Shang Xiang was stone-statued for some second. Her fist still on the air and hadn't landed yet. She blinked for some moment before realized who was standing in front of her. It was Liu Bei. Shang Xiang quickly lowered her hand and shot her head down. This was the second time she embarrassed herself in front of the Shu Emperor.
"Lady Sun, am I interrupting anything?" Asked Liu Bei.
"N-no…" Shang Xiang stuttered. It was a lie though. She only wanted to have a peaceful time on her own room alone, while thinking about anything. But with Liu Bei here, she didn't have time to do it.
Liu Bei looked at her concernedly. "You look troubled, Lady Sun. May I know the reason?"
Shang Xiang shook her head. "I-I'm not."
For some seconds, they were in an uncomfortable silence. Shang Xiang locked her gaze on the ground and kept her mouth shut as Liu Bei kept started at her. By now, she was hoping desperately for a Shu general to call his lord so she caould get back to her room. But it never came. Shang Xiang finally gave up.
"I…"
"I…"
Due to Shang Xiang bad luck, Liu Bei spoke up at the most same time as her.
"You go first, Lady Sun." Liu Bei asked politely.
Shang Xiang shook her head. "No, you first."
Liu Bei smiled. "Alright. I wish that we can get together a chat in the garden, if you don't mind."
Shang Xiang almost shouted "NO!", but she successfully won the fight against her urge to do it. She was thinking of a polite way to refuse when she saw…
Da Qiao and Xiao Qiao walked past them. They gave her a cynical look. Then they whispered to each other. They gave a fake smile while Liu Bei greeted them, but the two tried to leave as soon as Shang Xiang saw them. This was the worst for her. Now they had to think that she was really in love with Liu Bei.
Getting no reply, the Shu Emperor asked her for the second time. "How about that, Lady Sun?" And that interrupted her from her train of thought.
"Ummm… let me think…"
As if the encounter with the Qiao sisters wasn't enough yet, now Lu Xun's brother, Ling Tong and Gan Ning. Somehow Shang Xiang saw them hiding behind a great pillar. That brought her to one conclusion that they were spying them all times. Shang Xiang sent a death glare at them, as if threatened them to leave as soon as possible. At that was they did. But, miraculously, Liu Bei didn't see it. He soon grew impatient.
"It seems you have a problem, Lady Sun. May I know?" Asked Liu Bei.
"Yes, it's about my friend." She still scowled at Gan Ning's and Ling Tong's retreating form, without considering that Liu Bei was standing in front of her.
Liu Bei smiled. "Now, if that is your problem, I think you can talk with me."
Uh-oh… Shang Xiang though. Not that made her unable to refuse his offer. But, what's wrong with talking with Liu Bei? She still loved Lu Xun although she had a close friendship with Liu Bei. That was the most important thing, wasn't it? So she decided to accept it. "It's fine. But it wouldn't be best if we talk here. The wall can listen to us."
"Alright. Let's go to the garden."
--
North of Xu Chang, Guan Du, In a Village, Inn, Kairi's Room
Kairi rubbed her eyes. She yawned loudly. How boring this all was. She had to stay in an inn, away from everyone. From this day, she had decided to lock herself in her room, hoping that the organization couldn't find her. If only the organization wasn't there, she would have been with the inn owner, helping them serving the costumer. It was, although tiring, was much more fun than to stay all alone in the small room.
She recalled when she had wrote a letter and placed it in a bottle, then let the bottle followed the flow of the sea. She wondered where it could be right now. Could the letter be found by him in this world?
"Impossible." She muttered. But she hoped, with all of her heart that one day Sora would find it, in case if they would never meet anymore. The only thought of it made her choked. She just wanted to back in the time when she was living peacefully in Destiny Island, before the Heartless torn them apart. And now, the equally harmful creature appeared before them, the Nobodies.
But what can she do? She was helpless. She wished she was a Keyblade master like Sora and Riku.
She sighed. Thinking about them would make her even more stressed. and she knew that Zhen Ji wouldn't come today, so no one would tell her everything was going to be alright like what she usually did.
--
Wu Capital City: Jian Ye, Wu Palace, Palace Gate
"We're home!!"
Sora, Donald, and Goofy cheered gleefully. It was a long journey for them, although it was only eight days long. Lu Xun smiled at them while following from behind. He was now wearing his own hat, and there weren't any sign of wound at all, as if he never went into the battle.
"Hiya, girls!" Sora waved his hand when he saw the Qiao sisters and Naminé ran toward her.
"Hiya, superhero!" Xiao Qiao replied. "How is the things go with you?"
"Very well! We've defeated the Nobodies." Goofy answered proudly.
"We showed them who's the boss here!" Donald added.
"I'm the boss!" Sora laughed. "The Nobodies are nothing. Don't be so worried." Sora continued. "Anyway, what did we miss?"
"Shu has visited us." Da Qiao answered truthfully. "But we still haven't known their purpose yet."
Sora gulped. And Naminé couldn't help but silent. The two both know the reason of their visit. But how could they tell them now? With Lu Xun here?
Lu Xun joined them. "That's quite weird. How come Shu visit us?" He crossed his arms. "This must be something to do with our alliance."
They didn't really know about it. So, as a reply, they shrugged.
"Well, where's Shang Xiang? I want to give her charm and headband back."
Now, Da Qiao, Xiao Qiao, and Naminé both paralyzed. They exchanged looks and were hesitant to answer. But in the end, they fell silent and somewhat found an interest on the grassy ground. At this, Lu Xun tilted his head.
"What's wrong?" He asked in confusion.
"Ummm…" Xiao Qiao bit her lip. "I think Zhou Yu is calling. Bye, Xun!"
"Me too. If you would excuse me…" Da Qiao soon left them with her sister.
"Lu Xun, I think I have to get a rest. I'm tired." Now was Sora turn to leave him. Although Sora didn't know what Shang Xiang did, he still could guess. "Come on, Donald and Goofy."
Now was only Naminé left. But not long after she said the same thing. "I think I shall leave too…"
And Lu Xun was the only one there. He was curios at his friends' weird act. Surely they were hiding something from him.
Suddenly, a loud yell was heard.
"BOYAN!!"
Lu Xun turned to look at the voice. It was Ling Tong, Gan Ning, and Lu Meng. They ran toward him, and so did he. And they ended up bumping on each other.
"I win! I win the battle!" Lu Xun jumped in joy. "Now is your turn, brothers!"
Lu Meng was the first to do it. He stepped forward and showed Lu Xun the book he had wanted for a long time. "This is the reward for your victory."
Lu Xun widened his eyes and his smile. He grabbed and flipped over the page after page as soon as he received it. He then hugged the book. It was quite lovely to see the young strategist back to his own childishness.
"Thanks, Lord Lu Meng!" He hugged his brother. "Thank you soooo much!"
Lu Meng smiled back and stroke Lu Xun's honey-coloured hair. "That's the prize for your effort and bravery, Lu Xun. I regret I couldn't see you in the battle."
"I am so happy that now I have this book now…" He murmured. "But I'm happier that now I have you as my brothers."
"That's worth for yer effort, Boyan." Gan Ning patted his shoulder. "And there's a banquet tonight so ya can drink until you drunk!"
"Thanks, Xingba. I appreciate it." Lu Xun smiled. "But I don't drink."
"But I've promised ya!"
"And I'll end up like Sora, Donald, and Goofy. They are wine addict now. What have you taught them?"
"I taught them not to be like you!" Gan Ning grinned widely.
"Thanks." Lu Xun was irritated. "And… How about you, Gongji?"
Ling Tong smirked. "Wow, I don't know that you wanted to date with Shang Xiang that much!"
Lu Xun smile faded, and turned to be a deep blush. "T-that's not it! I-i just…"
"I knew it. No need to hide." Ling Tong let out a deep sigh before continued. "But I've failed, Lu Xun."
Lu Xun frowned. "What's that mean?"
None of them answered, just the same as what had happened earlier. This made Lu Xun a bit curios and anxious. He even could feel that something was wrong here.
"Come on, you don't need to hide anything!" Lu Xun insisted.
"And you don't need to know anything." Replied Ling Tong. That answer made Lu Xun a bit shocked.
Lu Meng, seeing this as a not really good welcome, tried to change the subject. "Well, it would be better if we don't talk about it. Don't you all miss each other?"
Lu Xun nodded. "Of course I missed you all!"
Gan Ning patted his back. "Let's have some fun, then!"
And the three entered the palace.
Hmmm… actually I want to give the headband and charm back to Shang Xiang but perhaps I should do it later. He thought.
--
Shu Capital City: Cheng Du, Shu Palace, Guan Ping's Room
"Xing Cai…"
Guan Ping muttered the name of the girl of his heart once again. She had told him that he was the one she loved. But was that true? As a childhood friends, he knew Xing Cai very well. Xing Cai would do anything to make everyone happy, even if she had to lie. But right now, he didn't need her lie. He just wanted to know the truth.
Because he loved Xing Cai.
He loved her. But he didn't want her to be his side, if the cost of it was seeing her heartbroken. Although he knew it was difficult, he would be willing to accept the truth. The truth that she loved Riku more. Perhaps it was better than to see Xing Cai torment herself by avoiding Riku.
Everytime Xing Cai told him 'I love you'; he knew that it was lie. Those three words was, actually, for Riku, not him. What he didn't understand was why she betrayed her own feeling. If Riku was the man in her heart, she didn't need to lie to make him happy. He knew that Xing Cai didn't belong to him, but to Riku. He knew that it was hard to accept. He had been falling in love with her for a long time and the thought of she didn't love him in return was what breaking his heart.
But what could he do? It was much much better for him seeing Xing Cai happy with the new guy than feeling guilty everytime she told him those three words. It was as if he forced her to be with him. And he didn't want that.
Finally, Guan Ping had made his decision. He knew that he should tell her no matter what.
--
Wu Capital City: Jian Ye, Wu Palace, Garden
Shang Xiang and Liu Bei were having a quite nice chat. Sometimes they talked about a political affairs and anything like that and at the other times, they were joking. And due to Liu Bei's friendly attitude, Shang Xiang found it quite fun to have a talk with him. In fact her mood slowly turned to be better and better.
"… And talking about that, what do you think about war?"
"It's a very horrible thing!" Shang Xiang answered. "It sometimes confuses me why some people declare war."
"Some people try to realize their ambition of unifying China. The others want to get reward and recognition in this war." Liu Bei stated. "How about you? What do you think is the purpose of war? And what are you fighting for?"
"To be honest, I fight for protecting the people I love." Shang Xiang answered truthfully. "But I don't want to hurt the others."
"People fight in war so that they may live in peace."
"Shang Xiang shook her head. "I don't believe that. If we want to live in peace we can simply stop the fight."
Liu Bei looked at her. "And just surrender ourselves to another kingdom?"
"Well, that's not a good idea either. In my opinion we should…"
--
Wu Capital City: Jian Ye, Wu Palace, Corridor
Lu Xun, along with his three brothers walked toward his room. There weren't anyone, it was quiet all the way. Not even a single servant was there.
"Strange… where are the others?" Lu Xun asked. Except his brothers, the Qiao sisters, and Naminé, no one had welcomed nor congratulated him yet. "And where's…"
The three knew who Lu Xun was referring to, but instead of answering, they changed the topic.
"Well, actually this is a secret." Lu Meng replied. "Lord Sun Ce and Zhou Yu planned a welcome banquet for your victory. But that's supposed to be a surprise."
Ling Tong shrugged. "Yea, and now you've spoil the fun."
"They really do that?" Lu Xun's eyed widened in surprise. "They really don't need to make a party for me!" He was so flattered though.
"They have to so we can drink!" Gan Ning slapped Lu Xun's back. "We four will be the drunken masters!"
"I NEVER touch wine, and will NEVER." He stressed every word 'NEVER'.
They were quiet for some moment before Lu Xun let out a deep sigh. "Where's Shang Xiang? Why can't I meet her?" He wasn't outspoken. In fact his brothers had known it so he didn't need to hide it.
"Don't worry, Boyan." Ling Tong said. "You will see her later."
"When?"
This time was Gan Ning's turn to speak. Using this chance, he spoke with poetic words that Lu Xun didn't get the meaning at all. "When the stars filled the sky…"
Frowning in confusion, Lu Xun tried to figure out what Gan Ning meant. But Ling Tong and Lu Meng could easily understand it.
"Xingba, I think you can just simply say 'tonight'." Lu Meng stated.
Lu Xun almost shouted a 'YAY', but he hid it with a wide smile. He couldn't wait to meet her, proudly tell her that he had won the battle and thank her for lending him the charm and the headband.
--
Wu Capital City: Jian Ye, Wu Palace, Great Hall
Naminé closed the door. She surveyed the great hall carefully. So, there were all of the servants, maids, and some of the officers and soldiers. They were all preparing for the party. And, due to their hard work, the great hall had been change into a very beautifully decorated party hall. She smiled at that.
"Sora and Lu Xun will be very happy." She thought.
As she walked past the working people, a servant approached her.
"Lady Naminé?"
She turned around. "Yes?"
"Lord Sun Ce and Lord Zhou Yu wish you to see them." The servant said.
Naminé nodded. "Alright, I will go."
--
Shu Capital City: Cheng Du, Shu Palace, Garden
Xing Cai stared blankly at the pond in front of her. The water reflected her expressionless face. For the millionth time, she sighed again and again. Guan Ping didn't show up today. She hadn't seen him since this morning. He hadn't been having breakfast with her like usual. And now, she was alone there.
Strangely, everytime she thought, or forced herself to think about Guan Ping, her mind always ended up thinking about the silver haired boy. She hushed the thought again. She didn't want to remember him again, not because she hated him. But because she was afraid that one day, if Riku left, she would felt hurt. That was a cowardly act, wasn't it? And that was what she hated most. Although she was a girl, she always showed a great prowess and bravery in the battle. But now, why did she feel like a loser? Retreating from what she should face? And that was what she did now: running away. Her father was a valiant warrior who said to have the strength of 10.000 men. She wondered whether the strength was hereditary or not. She remembered the battle of Chang Ban bridge, where her father guided the bridge and not a single Wei soldier dared to cross it. If the strength was hereditary, then why did she dare not to face one mere person, when her father didn't pull back when facing the numerous armies of Wei?
She picked a stone and threw it to the pond. A ripple was created. After that, she stood. Sitting there and pondering wouldn't do anything. Maybe she should look for Guan Ping herself. And of course, trying to avoid Riku.
--
Wu Capital City: Jian Ye, Wu Palace, Corridor
"… AND MY STRATEGY WAS A SUCCESS!!" Lu Xun said joyfully. As a victorious one usually did, he told them about what had happened. He was absolutely proud about it. "I can't say how happy I am!"
"That's a great tactic, Lu Xun." Lu Meng complimented. "I'm so proud of you."
Gan Ning and Ling Tong somewhat gave him a disbelieving look. "This is the first time Boyan didn't use fire as strategy!" Then, their face turned to be a smirk, and soon after, they laughed at him.
Lu Xun pouted. "Hey! I have a plenty of strategies in my mind other than fire, you know?!" But the two laughed harder at him.
"Oh, I thought you are a pyromaniac!" Ling Tong teased him.
"I'm not!"
"You are!"
"NO!"
"YES!"
Lu Xun shrugged. "Well, although I'm a pyromaniac, at least I'm not one smelly pirate and one whimsical smartass!" He siad mockingly, before turning away from them and hid his laugh.
"Hey, what do you mean by that?!" Ling Tong and Gan Ning protested.
Lu Xun could hide his laugh anymore. Ling Tong's and Gan Ning's face were very comical despite the fact that they were displeased at his remark.
"You guys are funny!"
Lu Xun then looked at the wonderful scenery in front of him. It was the garden, as peaceful as usual. And no one was there.
No one? But to his great surprise, there were two people there. His smile faded at the sight of them.
"Lu Xun? What's wrong?" Lu Meng asked.
"It's…" Lu Xun pointed to the sitting couple. "them."
--
Wu Capital City: Jian Ye, Wu Palace, Garden
"I think I should get going, Lady Sun. It's very nice to have some talks with you." Liu Bei stood up and helped Shang Xiang on her feet.
"Me either. I have a good time with you." Shang Xiang smiled. Talking with Liu Bei really could lighten up her mood.
"Don't you have other friends to be talked with?" Liu Bei asked.
Shang Xiang rolled her eyes. "Usually we can have a good time chatting together. But recently they are acting weird."
"What do you mean?"
"Well…" Shang Xiang was hesitant to tell him the story since it was related to him. "It's not a big problem. It's mainly about… ummm… let's just simply say about the man that I love."
"A man that you love?"
"Yes." Shang Xiang nodded. Her head down, but she was blushing when an image of her most beloved person struck her mind. She smiled inwardly. "He is not here, but I'm sure he will return in no time. You will meet him soon."
Liu Bei sighed, but Shang Xiang didn't know why. "Can I know about this man?"
Shang Xiang answered. "I doubt you know him since he isn't really well-known yet in other kingdoms. The only thing I can say that he is a young strategist and is Zhou Yu's and Lu Meng's apprentice. He is so intelligent, clever and talented. I'm certain that he will contribute greatly to Wu."
Liu Bei put his hand under his chin. "I'm sure I have never met him."
"Yes. But I'm sure you will meet him. And he is a nice person too!" Her smile grew wider. "And he is well-liked here, and he…"
"I know he is…" Liu Bei cut her off. And what made Shang Xiang surprise was that Liu Bei then took her hand, drew it closer to him, and gave it a light kiss. Shang Xiang's paralyzed and blinked. But Liu Bei continued. "I'm so jealous of that man you're talking about."
Shang Xiang still didn't react. But, without giving a final goodbye to her, he left her there, still paralyzed. Shang Xiang saw his leaving form, but her mind was fussed and she even dropped her jaw.
"Oh no… what am I thinking…" Shang Xiang muttered. "I think I'd better back to my room."
And she walked away as if nothing had happened. She was relieved though. No one was there and saw it all over, she thought.
--
Wu Capital City: Jian Ye, Wu Palace, Corridor
"You… don't need to see that." Lu Meng placed a hand on his little brother's shoulder. Lu Meng, Gan Ning, and Ling Tong didn't know what to do. Lu Xun had seen it and there was no way they could lie anymore about Shang Xiang and Liu Bei. The one and only result was Lu Xun would be extremely heartbroken.
"That's just nothing!" Gan Ning covered Lu Xun's eyes with his hands. But Lu Xun didn't struggle to release himself from him. Instead, Gan Ning could feel his hands wet. A single tear rolled down from Lu Xun's eyes.
"Lu Xun?"
Gan Ning released his hands and looked at Lu Xun. Lu Meng and Ling Tong did the same. Lu Xun bent his head down to hide his face.
"I'm… I'm s-sorry… maybe I should… get b-back to my room." His voice broke. Lu Xun quickly turned around and ran as fast as his feet allowed him, without showing his face to his brothers. They were always ready to listen to his problem, but he wanted to be alone now. Not even with his brothers. His feeling couldn't be described now. why should he be this angry and sad at the same time? It was just Shang Xiang with another man. It was usual. But the man had kissed her hand. Even the strategist himself never kissed the princess' hand like that. He was, undoubtedly, jealous.
"Lu Xun!"
But Lu Xun had been out of hearing range. He ran past the corridor. Luckily, no one was there. When he finally reached his room, he unlocked it using the key and rushed into his room. He jumped on to his bed and buried his head in the pillow.
"What's this feeling? Why my heart is aching badly?" He whispered quietly.
After some moments passed, he stood up from his bed and walked toward his drawer. He opened it with his key and found his diary there. He picked it. That was when he somehow finally realized that someone had read his diary. Furthermore, Lu Meng had told him that Shang Xiang had borrowed his key for an unknown reason. But, he knew why.
"Shang Xiang… she read my diary?!" Lu Xun yelled in shock. He involuntarily dropped the diary. Some papers were scattered. He knelt down and picked it one by one. Suddenly, his hand pulled a paper. It was his crude drawing.
"Shang Xiang has seen this." Lu Xun muttered. "She knew that I love her!"
He put all of the things back to the drawer and not forgetting to lock it back.
If she knows that I love her, and she loves me in return… why should she do that with the other man? He thought inwardly. I she really loves me, she wouldn't do it.
His diary being read didn't bother him anymore. The only thing in his mind was Shang Xiang. He would let her read his diary if she would love him in return. As he thought deeper, he found one conclusion. It was painful, but it was the truth so he should accept it no matter what.
"She doesn't love me. She loves another man."
--
Shu Capital City: Cheng Du, Shu Palace, Guest's Room
"You know what?" I think we should have caught up with the other generals and join their visit to Wu."
"Yes."
"That way, we could find Sora and perhaps the new Keyblade master."
"Yes."
"Who knows? Maybe we can repel the Nobodies with the new Keyblade master!"
"Yes."
"And maybe even ask him to go with us to our world!"
"Yes."
"I just wonder what will he say when he sees our world."
"Yes."
This time, King Mickey eyed Riku. Just as he thought, the boy didn't really listen to him. He was lying on his bed, just stared at the ceiling with a devoid expression. King Mickey knew what he was thinking, though.
Was he still angry at him? No way! He had apologized to him for saying such thing yesterday. There was no way he still angry at him. Besides, they had been friends for a long time.
King Mickey walked closer to him and jumped to the bed.
"HEY! FROM EARTH TO RIKU!!" He shouted at Riku's ears. And Riku was lucky that the shout didn't deafen him. He was startled, for sure.
"Y-yes, what's it, Y-your Majesty?" He was still surprised. That made King Mickey laughed.
"Still thinking about her?"
Instead of giving a direct answer, he was implying something. "I think we shouldn't have arrived in this world."
King Mickey sighed. It wasn't a good time to talk about it. "Riku, how about taking a walk. Staying in this room for a whole day wouldn't do any good."
"But, what if I meet her?"
Riku had never been a timid person, but since he met Xing Cai, he seemed changed. King Mickey realized this. What could he do? If meeting Xing Cai was what he afraid most, than he should overcome it. That was what King Mickey though.
"Well, I'm sure everything's gonna be okay!"
He then jumped off from the bed and pulled Riku's hand. Without wasting any second, they both exited the room.
--
Wu Capital City: Jian Ye, Wu Palace, Strategists' Office Room
"Yes, my Lord?"
Naminé bowed and walked closer to the Wu Emperor and the strategist. There must be something important that the two called her. Just when Naminé opened her mouth to ask, Sun Ce had spoken first.
"Naminé, we have to talk about something tonight." His voice was so deadly serious, which was a very rare thing for the likes of the Little Conqueror. "About my sis and Lu Xun and Liu Bei."
It was all to the point. That was better, though, as they wouldn't waste more time.
"Please take a seat." Said Zhou Yu, and Naminé did so.
Sun Ce cleared his throat before starting. "I've just happened to hear from Zhou Yu that my sister is in love with Lu Xun, not with Liu Bei. Am I right?"
"Yes." She nodded. "It was obvious. How can you think that she in love with Liu Bei? Even thinking of marrying her to him."
Sun Ce sighed in regret. "I really didn't know that she loves him. Now that we have invited Liu Bei and proposed this wedding plan to him…"
Naminé stood up from her seat. "That's the problem! Why don't you care about your sister?! If this is about the alliance, your sister must be furious to hear that you use her as a bribe!" She said in frustration.
"I don't give a damn about that alliance!" Sun Ce stood up and shouted back. "And I really DO care about my sister!" He slammed the table in fury. Who was this new girl that dared enough to yell at the Wu Emperor?
"Enough!" Zhou Yu spoke up, and the two stopped their argument. "This is my fault. I'm the one who thought that she was in love with him and planned the marriage."
Sun Ce and Naminé sat back without giving any arguments.
"This is a very difficult situation. Nothing will come from arguing like this. We must do something now."
"I know you have a plan."
"Yes." He nodded. "The welcome banquet will be held tonight. I will announce the wedding plan there."
Naminé was more than surprised at this. "What do you mean by that?! Shang Xiang might ruin the banquet! As for Lu Xun, he will run as far as he could and mourn there!"
As if he had known her respond would be like that, Zhou Yu answered calmly. "That's why we have Sun Ce here."
"I will tell my sister about this personally." Sun Ce said.
"How about Lu Xun?" Naminé asked.
"He…" Zhou Yu paused. "We don't have any choice other than to do it."
Naminé rested her back on the chair and let out a deep sigh before replied back. "Then I shouldn't join the banquet."
Both Sun Ce and Zhou Yu frowned. "Why not?"
"Lu Xun will be so depressed that he will leave the banquet without saying a word." Naminé stated. "And who knows? He might commit suicide or…"
"Although I'm sure Lu Xun wouldn't do any foolish thing such as that..." Zhou Yu cut her off. "I think it would be best if you are there to stop him and perhaps comfort him in case that really happens."
"Alright. I understand."
And the three dared not to make any sound. They were deep in their own thought. Sun Ce was thinking about what his sister would react when she heard the utterly miserable news. Zhou Yu himself was forming a word to announce the wedding plan without making his apprentice shock in terrible sadness, which was impossible. And Naminé was planning on how to cheer Lu Xun up when she found him crying, sobbing, or perhaps killing himself.
Finally, someone spoke. It was Sun Ce, the Wu Emperor himself. "And if it's already too late for both Shang Xiang and Lu Xun, what will you do?"
Zhou Yu was the one who answered this. "Naminé and I have decided to…" He glanced slightly at Naminé, who, in turn, thinking that it was a signal from him to continue.
"To kill Liu Bei." Her word was simple and emotionless.
Sun Ce gasped. But as quick as he realized the condition, he nodded in agreement. "I don't care that Shu will be our eternal enemy. The only thing I care is my sister." He said. "Tell me your plan."
Zhou Yu took a deep breath before explaining. "This is the plan. When the wedding party is being held, which will be two days later, someone will assassinate him from behind."
"And who is this someone?" Sun Ce asked.
"That, we still don't know yet."
Sun Ce rested his chin on his hand. "It would be best if we ask Lu Xun to do it."
Naminé shot her head to look at him, but said nothing as Zhou Yu replied back. "I don't understand why Lu Xun will be the best to do this task. He will still be depressed and you ask him to kill someone?"
"It's good. Lu Xun will suit this task, since he is, I'm sure he is, very jealous of Liu Bei."
This time, Naminé finally spoke up. "I don't think so. It's not like Lu Xun at all. He won't do anything such as killing someone because of jealousy."
"Think. If we can assure Lu Xun that the wedding just a mere trick by ordering him to do this, would he be still thinking about it? If he really loves my sister, he will do it without feeling any burden." He said it thoughtfully, which probably was the first time in his life.
Naminé sighed. "So then." She stood up from her seat. "I will be ready for it. I think you ought to prepare first." She bowed. "May I excuse now?"
"Yes. Thank you very much, Naminé. You're dismissed."
--
Wu Capital City: Jian Ye, Wu Palace, Guest's Room
Sora was lying down on the warm and soft bed, when Donald's terrible voice struck his ear. He jumped in surprise.
"What are you doing?! You're almost deafening me!" Sora rubbed his ear.
"This bed isn't big enough for three people!" Donald fought back. "Now get back to your room!"
"Lu Xun's room is locked, and I don't know where he put the key! And don't be so loud! Goofy is sleeping!"
Why Sora was in Donald's and Goofy's room was not a difficult thing to explain. As soon as they had left Lu Xun, they decided to take a good rest. Each of them went to their own room. Donald and Goofy went to the guest room when Sora went to Lu Xun's room. But then, he found that the room was locked and he had no idea where the key was so he went to Donald's and Goofy's instead.
"By now Lu Xun must have been in his room now." Donald pushed Sora to the door. "Now get out!"
And the door was slammed in front of him.
"Hey, are you kicking me out?!" Sora shouted loudly. Luckily, due to the preparation of the banquet, no one was there. "What a friend you are?!"
No replies. Sora left the room and flounced in exasperation. Where should he go? Maybe he should check Lu Xun's room. So, he walked toward there. That's when he finally realized that the place was so quiet. But since he hadn't known about the party, he just shrugged and put it aside in his mind.
When he finally was in front of his room, he knocked.
"Hey, anybody here?"
Hearing no answer, Sora tried to open the door. It wasn't locked. And he entered the room…
"Lu Xun?!"
…to see Lu Xun lied motionlessly on his bed. His face was buried on the pillow. Sora approached him. The Falcon were placed on the floor randomly, which was rare for Lu Xun. Sora took it and put in on a table before looking at his friend.
"Lu Xun, are you sleeping?" He whispered, but received no replies. Stupid, of course he is sleeping! He thought. He turned around to leave the room when he saw Lu Xun stirred.
"Shang Xiang…"
Sora turned around, once again. He wasn't really surprised at what he had mumbled in his dream. It was Lu Xun's face that surprised him. His face was wet by his own tears. His honey colored hair was a mess and damp. And, if Sora listened carefully, he could hear Lu Xun sobbing softly in his sleep. Those all brought Sora into one conclusion: Lu Xun had just been crying.
"What wrong with him?" Sora tilted his head. "Surely something has just happened."
Sora lied beside Lu Xun and rested his head on his hands. "This must be something about Shang Xiang." He muttered.
After a moment full of thought, Sora's eyes widened in shock. "Lu Xun has found out something about Shang Xiang and Liu Bei!" He almost shouted, but managed not to do it. "Gosh… what should I do?"
He grew more frantic and panic as he saw Lu Xun stirred again. This time he opened his sore eyes and rubbed them. Sora would hid somewhere in the room or quickly got out of the room without being noticed, if Lu Xun gave him some times by yawning, or stretching. But unfortunately he didn't. He grew cautious at his surrounding and shot his eyes to look at the paralyzed Sora standing in front of the door. Lu Xun titled his head, before finally realized that Sora must had seen him crying in his sleep.
"Sora?"
Sora swallowed hard before answering. "Ummm… let me think." He then turned around and faced Lu Xun with a fake-wide smile. "Yes, this is Sora! How is today?"
Lu Xun chuckled. "Well, nothing is wrong." Then his smile fell and his expression was serious now. "Tell me. What've you done here and how long?"
"Well…" Sora rubbed his head. "I've breathed and I've just arrived a second ago."
"Serious?"
"Positive." Sora answered with a nod.
Lu Xun shrugged. "Well, then." But he was still sure that Sora had seen him crying. After he had seen his rummaged drawer and concluded the most painful thing he had ever known, he cried to his sleep. Who knows? Maybe he talked everything in his sleep and Sora heard it all.
Sora let out a loud sigh. "I'm not. You want know what I've done, don't you?" He admitted. "I've heard your sobs and I know that you're crying."
"Just as I though."
"If that's all that matters," Sora took a seat on the edge of the bed. "Tell me. What's wrong with you? Why did you cry?"
Lu Xun smiled bitterly. "Because what you've said were all lies."
Sora was shocked, but he hid them in a calm expression. Why did Lu Xun stated such thing all of the sudden? "Which ones are the lies?"
"All of them." Was his short answer. "And you're a liar. I shouldn't have believed you."
And that what angered Sora. No one had ever accused him for being a liar but Lu Xun. "What do you mean by I'm a liar?! What I've told you is all the truth!"
"You're a liar!" He fought back. "Shang Xiang NEVER loves me! I should have buried my feeling toward her!"
Sora was stunned. Not because of his stabbing word, but because of what he saw. As quick as Lu Xun had finished speaking out loud, he broke into tears. Never once Sora saw a man crying like that. And more surprisingly, the man who cried in front of him right now was a strategist, the one who should be able to control his emotion when the others didn't.
"Just… please, leave me alone." Lu Xun held his tears using his hand. He was so embarrassed that he hopes he could kill himself right here and now. Even when he tried to sob as soft and gentle as he could, Sora still could hear it.
Sora looked down at the fragile crying strategist. He didn't have heart to leave his friend crying like that, but was also lack of comforting ability. After a few moments past, he decided one thing which he would regretted forever. To lie.
"If it's about Shang Xiang and Liu Bei…"
"Please stop… I don't want to hear anything." His voice broke.
Sora ignored him, instead he continued. Well, maybe this was a right time to lie after all. He laughed and pretend as if he had succeeded in fooling Lu Xun. "… Shu visits us just for the alliance thing. There's nothing to worry about Shang Xiang and Liu Bei!"
Lu Xun stopped crying. He opened his eyes and looked at Sora disbelievingly. "Really? Are you sure?"
Sora nodded vigorously, although he knew that it was absolutely wrong. "Sure! So, you don't need to worry." His conscience kept accusing him for this.
Lu Xun wiped his tears and sighed in relief before finally smiled and apologized. "Oh, I'm sorry, Sora. You know…"
"Yeah… yeah…" He grinned widely. "I know how much you love Shang Xiang."
At once, heat spread across Lu Xun's already-red-face. But, he didn't deny it, for it was the truth. "W-well…"
"Have you said 'hello' to Shang Xiang then?" Asked Sora.
Lu Xun shook his head. "I haven't. Maybe I can meet her on the banquet tonight."
"What banquet?"
"This is supposed to be a surprise." Answered Lu Xun. "But a welcome banquet will be held tonight for our victory at Shi Ting."
Sora jumped in joviality. "A banquet? For us?! YAY!!"
Lu Xun smiled inwardly. "Then, be ready for it. I think it would be soon."
"Okay!" He nodded. "I will be ready. But first, I think you should wash your face. If everyone sees you like that, they will sure be curious about it."
As soon as Lu Xun heard the word 'wash', he smacked his head. "Sora, I've just realized that I haven't taken a bath since yesterday!"
"Oh! You're right! Shang Xiang will be disgusted by your smell!" He said jokingly.
Lu Xun, slightly irritated, replied back. "And how about you? Have you taken a bath?"
Sora smiled confidently. "I have taken bath in Goofy's and Donald's room."
"Good for you." Lu Xun said nonchalantly. "Well, I should be prepared soon."
--
Wu Capital City: Jian Ye, Wu Palace, Library
"So, you will be waiting here?" Asked Zhou Yu.
Naminé nodded. "Yeah, I'm sure Lu Xun will run to this place after he heard the announcement."
"Are you sure you don't want to join the party?"
"If I do, then no one will be able to comfort him."
Zhou Yu sat on the nearest chair. "But are you sure he will go here?"
"I'm sure. This is Lu Xun's favorite place." She took a seat and eyed Zhou Yu confusedly. "As his teacher, you should've known it."
Zhou Yu shook his head. "That's my fault. I don't really show much care to him. That's why I don't know that he loves Shang Xiang." Zhou Yu admitted. His voice was full of regret.
Naminé sighed. "You can't change the past."
No reply. Zhou Yu stood up from his seat and patted Naminé's shoulder. "Please, do your best. He's my student."
Naminé nodded. Zhou Yu was relieved and he believed that Naminé could take care of Lu Xun. He left the room and paced toward the Great Hall.
--
Wu Capital City: Jian Ye, Wu Palace, Lu Xun's Room
"Come on, Lu Xun! The party almost starts!" Shouted Sora. How long he had been waiting for Lu Xun, he didn't know. Lu Xun had been in the bathroom for a long time. And Sora knew that he was trying to make his look as best as he could. Certainly Lu Xun was looking forward to impress Shang Xiang with his look beside his victory at Shi Ting.
"Just a few moment, Sora!" A reply came from the bathroom.
Sora sighed. "You won't impress Shang Xiang by coming late, Lu Xun."
And, just after Sora finished, the bathroom door was flung open. And Lu Xun stepped out from the bathroom as Sora looked at him in awe.
"MAN, you're great!"
Lu Xun scratched his head. "Do you think so?"
Actually, nothing was different from him. He still wore his usual outfit, of course with his hat on his head. But, something was different. His clothes were cleaner than usual, as if had been washed twice or even thrice to make it free from any dirt and stain. Even Lu Xun himself looked so perfectly cleaned, that's the fruition of his long-period bathing.
"I'm sure no one, not even Lord Sun Ce, will outshine you." Sora replied.
"Well." He said nervously. "I don't really wish that."
"What do you wish then?"
"I wish I can make a good impression to Shang Xiang."
Sora laughed. "She will. Don't worry!" He patted Lu Xun's back. "Okay, let's get going!"
--
Wu Capital City: Jian Ye, Wu Palace, Shang Xiang's Room
Shang Xiang was anxious. Since she had talked with Liu Bei this morning, everybody acted coldly at her. Da Qiao, Xiao Qiao, Gan Ning, Ling Tong, and even Lu Meng! Furthermore, she hadn't seen Naminé yet. Maybe she avoided her too. But, at least she found out that Lu Xun had returned today. One thing that she regretted was that she hadn't been the one who welcomed him the first time when he reached the palace.
"At least I can do it tonight." Muttered Shang Xiang.
Tonight was the welcome banquet. Here's Shang Xiang's plan. She would hide somewhere in the Great Hall, which was used for the party, and when Lu Xun finally realized her absence, and started to worried about her, she would jump out from her hiding place and hug him. And probably kissed him. Shang Xiang giggled at the sight of blushing Lu Xun when her plan really would work.
Shang Xiang put on her usual clothes. Usually, either her brothers or Qiao sisters would ask her to wear dress. But since it was Lu Xun's welcome banquet, Shang Xiang felt it was okay to wear her usual clothes. And who knows? Maybe Lu Xun would like her more if she wore pants, not dress. After putting her clothes on, Shang Xiang looked at her reflection in the mirror. It was perfect, but she didn't wear her headband. She should ask Lu Xun to return it later.
"Okay, time to get going!"
Shang Xiang opened the door… only to see Sun Ce standing in front of her. Since her mood had gone better than that morning, she replied his brother's smile.
"Tonight will be Lu Xun's welcome party, right? Let's go!" She said happily.
Sun Ce shook his head. "Shang Xiang, there's something I want to tell you."
She shrugged. "Well, any news could wait later. We can talk after I meet Lu Xun, okay?"
So, she truly loves Lu Xun. What Naminé and Zhou Yu said was true. Sun Ce thought. How could he tell Shang Xiang that she was to be married to Liu Bei, and ended up making her smile turn into sobs? But at least they had another plan on their sleeve so he found it easier to tell her.
"It only takes not more than 15 minutes, sis. Then, you can be with Lu Xun as long as you want." Sun Ce insisted. Like she want…after I told her this news. He sighed in regret, but fortunately, Shang Xiang didn't consider this.
Shang Xiang rolled her eyes. "Okay. Just 15 minutes. Not more." Maybe he will ask me to wear dress and have a lecture with me that a girl is supposed to wear dress on a banquet. But, heck, I won't listen to him. She thought. "Where will we talk? Certainly not in a place like this, isn't it?"
"It'd be best if we talk inside your room." Sun Ce answered.
Shang Xiang entered the room once again and let Sun Ce come in. Shang Xiang took a seat on her bed while Sun Ce on a chair.
"Well, what do you want to tell me?"
Okay, that's for now!
Oh well, no one knows the song yet? I hope someone would like to tell me. For those who know the song, please tell me. I will appreciated it.
Well, tell me what you think. Nothing more to say as this chapter has nothing special. If you want to know how the welcome banquet will be, you can read soon because THIS TIME I PROMISE I WILL UPDATE NEXT MONDAY AND I WON'T BREAK MY PROMISE! Once again, I'm so sorry for my lateness. I won't do it anymore (although I'm not quite sure myself).