A simple promise isn't an effortless whim but a commitment that must be carried throughout time and enforced by loyalty and trust.

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Under the Light

Chapter 11:

Guarded Life

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The crashing of the waves to the beach quieted significantly. The sun's rays were dimming and the only light it presented was that of a golden sunset. Xiang was lying on his back contently as he held Mei in his arms. Her back was lying on his chest but her head was nudged just an inch off from his, so close that a whisper was all that was needed to be heard.

Mei's eyes were closed gently as she enjoyed the silence between them. And even then, she needed a moment to calm her hammering heart. It was slowing down but she could still vividly remember every second of the last few moments; the memory of their connection and his soft and warm lips against hers. It was completely different from when she remembered their first kiss. It was unofficial of course but now, it was such a dramatic change.

This time around, she could experience the feelings he had been carrying. She had been carrying similar feelings but it was different from his. In that short instance when they were connected, she could taste him and sense the love he had for her. Not only that, she didn't know exactly what it was but when they kissed, nothing else mattered except for him.

Mei held her breath in anticipation. Would she be the one to break the silence? Or would he? She didn't know but she wanted to say something.

"… Xiang…" she whispered.

Xiang opened his eyes softly and held her more comfortably. "Yes?"

"I need to confirm this from you. We're together now?"

Xiang chuckled softly. "If that's what you want. I thought kissing you would be enough."

Mei blushed in response. "I w-want to… it was just unexpected. After the other night… I thought you didn't want to. What changed your mind?"

"I spoke to an acquaintance… he knew me for so long and he figured out what was bothering me. When he talked to me, he made me realize that there are only a few chances at happiness and you were the only one I wanted."

Mei smiled lightly. "You have a good friend."

Xiang nodded and he sat up with Mei still in his arms. The girl was slightly startled by the sudden action but didn't care since he was still holding her. "We should get back to the others before it gets dark."

"Do we have to?" she asked, sounding disappointed. "I was enjoying this time with just you and me."

"Yes we do. Believe me, I want nothing more than to just be alone with you but our friends might get worried about us."

Mei sighed. "I guess that's true. I just know Tai and Yue will be hammering us with questions."

"Let them." He rose to his feet as he helped Mei to hers.

The two began to walk back to their class but while their feet left imprints in the sand, the two quietly interlocked their hands. Both carried a smile on their faces as if nothing would be able to break their happiness.

When they returned to the group, almost everyone stared in shock and disbelief. First strike; Xiang was actually smiling instead of carrying his usual stoic expression. And second; the couple were holding hands. Almost the entire female population of the group glared at Mei with envy while the guys smiled in respect.

Xiang and Mei were able to maneuver themselves through the group of people and managed to find Tai and Yue sitting under an umbrella. The two turned their heads around and a smile instantly found its way on their face. Tai jumped out and cheered for the new couple and Yue laid back in relief. Now that all the drama was over, she could finally rest and not worry about them. But she was interested in Mei's story.

Tai ran over to Xiang and raised his hand for a high five. Xiang wordlessly returned the gesture. "Hey you two," he greeted happily. "It looks like you guys worked out your problems perfectly."

Mei blushed from the greeting but nodded shyly. She looked over to see Yue still lying on the beach towel but she turned her head and gave her a smile in response. Xiang appreciated the greeting but he didn't really need to hear what he already knew.

The teacher's voice suddenly blew out to everyone on the beach through a bullhorn. "Attention all students, we'll be returning to the hotel now so pack up your things."

Many of the students groaned at leaving the tropical beach but they couldn't really complain since many were exhausted from the long day. Mei's smile suddenly went away as she stared down at the sand. "… I wanted to spend more time with you."

Xiang moved his head to look directly at her and he gave her a reassuring smile. "How about you and I spend some time together? Tonight sound good?"

Mei's widen slightly as a blush crept over her face. "O-okay," she answers.

Xiang's smile brightens slightly. "Great. I'll see you tonight then."

The night approached quickly as the sun finally disappeared in favor of a moonless night filled to the brim with the sparkling stars of the sky. The grounds were clear and the only sounds that could be found were the soft echoing sounds of waves. The hotel was relatively quiet now that dinner was over and everyone was allowed a three hour free period to do whatever they wanted.

Yue was lying on her bed, casually reading a book as Mei ran around the room nervously searching for the right outfit for tonight. Yue at first tried to reason with Mei, saying that she looked perfectly fine but the stubborn girl ignored her comments and continued looking through outfits. Mei was worried because it seemed as though Xiang had asked her on a date even though it wasn't an official one. The Taiwanese girl searched through her dresses and occasionally sighed, finding that most of them were casual. After the longest time of searching, she found a sundress that she liked.

Just on time as well. The sound of knocking came from beyond the door and Mei tensed up instantly. Mei's nervousness returned and she cowered from the door. Yue sighed. "Mei, could you please stop being nervous. You're spending the night with Xiang. Make sure to just be calm and have fun with him," she urged.

Mei took a deep breath and put on a smile. "Thanks Yue. I needed to hear that," she admitted. Yue smiled at her friend and waved her hand to her, repeating herself and urging her to have fun.

Mei went over to the door and opened it. Her view of Xiang came into view and she couldn't help but blush slightly. Xiang was dressed in smooth black pants and he wore a thin red button up shirt over a black t-shirt. The look was so simple but he looked so handsome Mei thought.

Xiang took a moment to inspect Mei's outfit. She wore a pink cherry dress that had floral patterns decorating one side. In addition to the dress, she wore a red flower where her heart was; Xiang didn't know what kind of flower it was but it looked nice on her. He couldn't help but grin slightly when he noticed the pink that dusted her cheeks.

"Hey," he greeted.

"H-hey… y-you look nice," she commented nervously.

"I could say the same to you, but you're much more beautiful."

Mei's face turned scarlet and she tried hiding her face in her hands. "T-thanks… so we're we going?"

Xiang reached out and removed her hands from her face and held one. "You shouldn't hide your face. It'd be a disservice to the world if you did that," he insisted. "Also, we're going to be taking a walk in the park."

Mei's face got even redder, if that was possible, and she nodded. "O-okay. And that sounds nice."

Xiang gave her one of his rare smiles and guided her out of her room. Just before he closed the door, he stuck his head in through the door and saw Yue. "I'll bring her back before midnight," he assured.

Yue lifted her face from her book and gave him a slight nod in agreement. "Don't do anything crazy," she ordered.

"We'll see." Xiang closed the room to the door and began to walk with a flushed Mei. He turned his attention from the quiet halls to her. "No need to be so embarrassed you know."

"I-I'm not!" she stammered. "I'm just a bit nervous. This feels like a date."

Xiang chuckled. "I wouldn't call this a date. This is more like hanging out with my lovely girlfriend."

Mei stared at him slightly. The word girlfriend felt so foreign to her but when he said it, she felt as if her heart could burst from her chest from happiness. "That sounds fine then." Mei finally calmed down after a few moments and now enjoyed her alone time with Xiang. "So what will we be doing exactly?"

"Well I figured we could watch the stars and talk. I have some important things to establish to you."

Mei grew slightly curious as to what Xiang wanted to talk about but knew they would be getting to it soon enough so she pushed her curiosity aside. The two entered the outside of the hotel at last and it wasn't too soon that they reached the nearby park. Xiang pointed out a tall hill where they'd be watching the sky and they continued their walk till eventually they reached their destination.

Mei was stunned by the sight that was displayed before her. It was absolutely magnificent in all aspects. The way the pure white stars sparkled and dusted the clear night skies, illuminating the normally dark heavens. She still couldn't say anything but Xiang understood her reaction and lead her to the blanket lying on the hill's side.

He made her sit down so she'd be more comfortable watching the stars. "This is amazing," she exclaimed.

"I'm glad you think so." Xiang smiled and snaked his arms around her waist. "I'm glad I could share this moment with you and you only."

Mei laid her head against Xiang's chest and sighed contently. "Me too… So what did you want to talk about?"

"Well… about what I do," he revealed. "I want to know what you know and think."

"Oh, I'm fine with it. I figured we'd have to discuss this at some point."

"Is that so? Well first off, how did you find out?"

"I was suspicious for quite some time. Just everything about you reminded of that first night we met; the first night where you saved me from those men. And then I finally confirmed it a few nights ago when you fought against a police agent."

"So you were the person I thought I saw."

"I knew you saw me but at that point, it was just… too much for me to fathom. But after I thought about it, I knew I didn't care about what you did or your life as an assassin. I knew that my feelings didn't lessen but they grew… and I knew that I love you."

Xiang smiled and gave a gentle kiss to her cheek. "Again, I can't thank you enough for that."

"It's my pleasure," she sang.

"Well anyway, I need to warn you."

"About what? You wouldn't do anything to me, would you?" she asked innocently.

"I wouldn't. You're the only person I've ever treated so gently. And I will always do so but I mean others. Like the Organization and maybe rival organizations."

"What do you mean?"

"Our relationship, we have to try and keep it as quiet as we can. If the Organization or any rivals find out about my connections to you, they might try and do something to you. And I don't ever want to put you in danger or ever want you hurt."

"Oh, well despite that, you chose to be with me, right? So I'm going to take this challenge with you all the way. Any dangers or risks, I'll do my best to stay strong. I always want to be with you."

"Thank you Mei. I'll make sure I'll protect you with all my strength."

"All I ask is for you to do your best and be safe."

"I promise," he vowed.

"Good," she smiled. The atmosphere suddenly quieted and Mei moved closer to him. "Sorry… I'm a bit cold."

"Don't worry about it." Xiang tightened his hold over her and caressed her back gingerly. "Better?"

"Much better," she answered. Mei suddenly pulled Xiang down onto the blanket and wrapped her arms around his neck. "Being closer is warmer…"

"Of course. I thought you just wanted to be closer… or kiss."

Mei blushed slightly. "Both actually."

Xiang slowly leaned in toward her and she received his lips gently. Mei increased the pressure as she pulled his head closer to her. Xiang was slightly surprised but deepened the kiss and moved his lips against hers skillfully. Mei couldn't help but moan slightly as Xiang made the small but pleasing movements. Eventually, the two broke the kiss as their lungs begged for air.

Mei was panting and dizzy from the kiss but it was the best feeling. "T-that was amazing."

Xiang was slightly panting as Mei rested her head on his neck. "Yeah… you're a good kisser," he commented.

"You're better…" she whispered. Mei nuzzled into his neck, enjoying the warmth he provided.

The two remained relatively silent. The only sounds they could hear from the other was their soft breathing and the beating of their hearts. Both changed the position of their heads only slightly so they could see the stars above their heads. The scene was just perfect.

"Xiang…" she whispered.

"Hm?" he answered.

"I've never seen stars before… Back at home, the pollution and light from the buildings always blocks out the stars so no one can ever see them. But I'm glad I can see them with you for my first time."

"I'm happy to be here for your moment too. I didn't really mind if I ever could see these kinds of stars though. They were always there but I've found something so much more beautiful and memorable."

"What would that be?" she asked curiously.

"My light… my love… my sun… you."

Mei flushed and buried her face within his chest. "That's too sweet of you… thank you."

"I'm being sincere."

"I know that, it's just strange to hear. But I love the feeling it gives."

"I'm glad." Xiang held her closer and closed his eyes, just wanting to feel her presence.

The couple rested on the hill till both began to drift off. Mei wanted to just fall asleep in his arms till the sudden sounds of footsteps broke her of her sleepiness. Mei's eyes snapped opened and she could see rays of lights wavering above the hill. She nudged Xiang slightly, alerting him to the lights. Xiang raised his head and saw that it was the ground guards. Xiang cursed under his breath, remembering that they still had a curfew.

"We have to cut our time short," he said sadly. "We have to sneak back into the building."

Mei looked equally disappointed but understood. "So how do we do that?"

"Don't worry. I'll be your guide."

Xiang helped Mei to her feet and rolled the blanket up. He held her hand as his other arm held onto the blanket. The two made their way down the hill and Xiang waited for the right moment when the guard would pass them. The guard didn't notice the two at all and made his usual course around the grounds. Xiang and Mei quickly snuck back to the hotel and thankfully, no one spotted them.

Xiang lead Mei back to her room as quietly as possible, remembering that some people would be sleeping and he didn't want to disturb them. Finally the two returned to Mei's room and Xiang took a breath of relief. "We made it," he exclaimed.

"Yeah, I suppose it wasn't as dangerous as one of your regular missions."

"Not at all but I treated it as such. Well good night Mei, sleep well." Xiang leaned down and gave a gentle kiss to her forehead.

Xiang moved to walk away until he was stopped. He turned his head around and saw Mei still holding onto his hand as she stared at him with pleading eyes. "… I don't want you to go."

Xiang went over to her and held her in a tender hug. "It's alright… I don't want to either but it's just for tonight."

Mei still looked reluctant to part ways until Xiang leaned in slowly to her. She understood immediately and leaned forward and met his lips with her own. The kiss was so very gentle and it only lasted a moment but it was enough to make Mei blush as they pulled away. Xiang gave her an honest smile which finally reassured Mei.

"Don't worry too much now, okay?" Xiang asked. Mei replied with a shy nod. "Then sleep well my love and sweet dreams."

Mei gave a quick peck to Xiang's cheek as she entered her room. Mei saw that Yue was already fast asleep at her side of the room and Mei quickly changed for bed. She entered the soft mattress and the coziness of the bed made her eyes grow heavy as she began to drift off. And even though she knew she was going to enter her dreams, she would be awakening to a dream that became reality.

The morning sun shined softly onto the morning dew. The students of the hotel started to awaken for the early and long day they would be having. Mei rose lazily from her bed as Yue shook her awake. The Taiwanese girl rubbed her eyes but it didn't have any effect in waking her up.

"Mei, wake up. We have to get up early today remember?"

"But why?" she whined.

"We're going on a hiking trip today," she explained. "And if you get ready quickly, you can see Xiang sooner," she teased.

Mei was now wide awake as she leaped out of her bed. Even though Mei was moving quickly, she couldn't hide her flushed face and her wide grin. Yue chuckled at her reaction. Mei was so much happier now and in return, Yue was happy for her best friend. Despite Xiang's mysterious nature, she believed that Mei did understand him and vice versa.

After a few minutes, Mei was ready and she didn't have to wait for Yue since she was ready before Mei even woke up. The two friends smiled at each other and exited the room. The moment Mei entered the hallway, a pair of arms wrapped themselves around her waist.

Mei gasped from the sudden contact and when she turned her head around to see who it was, she blushed. "Good morning," Xiang greeted.

"X-Xiang!" she exclaimed. "W-what are you doing here so early?"

Xiang quietly nuzzled into her hair before answering. "I wanted to see you as soon as possible," he whispered.

"Is that so?" she asked.

"Yes. Would you like to be my partner for the hike?"

Mei tensed up slightly and looked at Yue pleadingly. Earlier, Mei said she would be Yue's partner. Yue chuckled slightly and nodded in agreement. She would just be Tai's partner if anything. Mei quickly mouthed 'thank you' to her friend and looked up to see Xiang. "I'd love to." Xiang smiled and held her tighter.

Yue snuck away from the new couple and sighed contently. She was happy that the two were together and all, but their cuteness was just way too much for her to take. Yue enjoyed her peace and quiet even though having such a hyper boyfriend and best friend kept her away from that. But she didn't regret any of that.

Xiang and Mei made their way downstairs, their hands interlocked with each other. When they reached downstairs, students were already up and boarding the bus for the mountains. Not wanting to lose a good seat, the two hurried onto the bus and found a good seat near the back of the bus. The teacher wanted to give a few more students time to get down but Mei didn't mind. It just meant she get to spend more time with Xiang in the long run.

After the rest of the students rushed in, the bus came to life and started on their journey. Almost everyone was unusually quiet since it was still early. It seemed as though the only two that wasn't tired were obviously Xiang and Mei. The two held an extraordinarily amount of energy that kept them awake and focused on the other.

Mei fidgeted in her seat slightly as the ride continued. Occasionally, she would turn to see Xiang looking out the window, his hand still holding onto hers. It was slightly awkward for her as they sat together. Technically, they had privacy since everyone was asleep but neither made any move toward the other. Mei took a deep breath and inched closer to Xiang. She didn't make a significant movement but slowly as seconds passed, she got closer.

Xiang took notice of her shy advance and smiled at her. In a swift movement of his arms, he pulled her close so that no distance separated them. Mei blushed at the suddenness. "If you wanted to get closer, all you had to do was to do so or say so."

Mei buried her flush face into his chest. "But this situation seems awkward…" she mumbled.

"What's so strange about it?"

"It's just… we're the only ones awake so we have privacy but neither of us were doing anything."

"We don't have to do anything unless you want to." Xiang moved his hand under her chin and lifted it slightly. "Do you?" he asked, lowering his voice.

Mei's face turned scarlet as she stared back at him. "W-what do you mean by that?"

"I mean we could do anything you like," he answered simply.

"I-I d-don't know…" she stammered. Mei tried turning her head away in embarrassment until Xiang pulled it back.

Mei couldn't avoid his eyes this time but they seemed different. A strange fiery glow enhanced his golden eyes that made them irresistible. "If you don't know, then I'll guide you." Xiang slowly closed his eyes and leaned forward. Mei tensed up from the action but she didn't dare move away. The girl closed her eyes in anticipation and waited but no contact was made. That was when Mei realized that Xiang wanted her to make the first contact and she began to lean forward herself.

Just before their lips met, the bus hit a bump and Mei instead jumped and clung onto Xiang. The couple was startled by the sudden break of their moment and saw that the bump started everyone else's awakening. The two sighed to each other and snuggled closer to one another. Their privacy had been cut short but there was no reason why they still couldn't enjoy the others presence and touch.

Now that everyone was awake, the trip seemed to go much quicker but maybe it was just because Xiang and Mei had lost their sense of time while with each other. Each second alone was an eternity too short.

The chatter of the awakened students started to make everyone else rise and in turn, the silent bus was now full of sounds from the students. The bus ride, before long ended as everyone started to exit into a clearing. The serene image of the forest before them was breathtaking. The soft colors of different shades of greens enhanced their senses as they could hear various chirps from flying birds and the scent of the fresh woodland.

The teacher gathered all the students to a single location, making sure they all had their hiking backpacks with them and equipped with the proper supplies. Their instructor turned around and began to guide the group of students towards the mountain range. Everyone could hear the crunching of their steps on fallen branches and the dirt road in front of them.

Before long, their simple hike had various obstacles for them to overcome. In front of the group, stood a steep rock formation and it didn't seem likely that they could just walk around it. Luckily for the students, the teacher had anticipated such an obstacle and prepared some climbing equipment.

Xiang only stood back to watch as almost every student struggled to even get a grip on the rocks. Many of the students fell off before they even got one foot off the ground. And whatever they were doing, it wasn't safe at all. The way they just mindlessly inserted metal rods to the rock would easily break out.

Xiang's eyes widened as he saw Mei climbing the cliff but he could clearly see that she hadn't fastened her rope to the rods or to herself. He quickly sprinted off and just as he got closer, rocks began to tumble down. The girl tried shifting her weight to a different ledge but it was too late. The rock she was holding on to broke loose and she fell.

Mei closed her eyes and awaited the pain that would follow her but all she felt was something firm yet soft that broke her fall. She opened her eyes and she looked up to see Xiang holding her in his arms. He had a terrified expression on his face as held her.

"Are you okay?" he asked worriedly.

"I'm f-fine… just a bit startled."

"You need to be more careful next time Mei. You could've gotten hurt like that."

"I'm sorry… I thought I could do this."

Xiang sighed. "It's fine. I'll get us up there."

"What? How?"

Xiang lowered Mei to her feet and motioned her to get on his back. She obeyed and wrapped her arms tightly around his neck and shoulders. Xiang began to scout for the best spot to start climbing and went over to the side of the rocks. He immediately secured his hands onto the walls and began to climb. The sudden change in altitude made Mei tighten her hold on him, nearly choking him at the same time. She was also surprised by how easily Xiang was climbing the steep cliffs.

Before she knew it, Xiang reached the top and Mei was glad to have her own footing again. "How did you do that so easily?" she asked.

Xiang shrugged. "I'm supposed to be prepared for these kinds of things. It's only basics."

Mei was astonished by how skillful Xiang was. He seemed so perfect but even if he wasn't, she cared about him just as much. Mei reached out and took his hand. "Let's go up to the peak then?"

"What about the others?"

"They'll get there soon enough. I want more alone time with you," she smiled.

Xiang nodded and began to walk up with her. The rest of the path wasn't difficult to navigate at all since it was a pretty straight forward path. The couple was silent the entire way up to the peak but they didn't need to say anything to each other. That peace and tranquility that could only be found through their connection was enough for them.

The moment they reached the top of the mountain, Mei gasped. The view was breathtaking and gorgeous in all aspects. Out in the distance were trees that covered the island along with a clear blue lake that sat in the center of it all. Then just beyond the forest, was the deep blue ocean. She could see the white foam that formed from waves and the waves of sandy shores that surrounded the isle.

"This is… amazing…"

Xiang went over and quietly hugged Mei from behind. "Isn't it?"

Mei shook her head happily and walked forward to get a closer look until she saw how high up they were. Immediately she jumped back in freight and Xiang held her comfortingly. "What's wrong?" he asked.

"H-High up…"

Xiang turned her around and led her to a tree to lean against. "Just focus on me and forget about the height, okay?"

Mei nodded shyly and looked up to see Xiang's face. She didn't realize how close he was to her but when she did, her face heated up instantly. "X-Xiang… you're really close…"

The Cantonese teen smirked and leaned forward. "Is that a problem?" he whispered. He didn't need an answer. Just the scarlet color of her face was enough to tell him all he needed.

Xiang got even closer to her, separating more and more distance between them. Mei closed her eyes and prepared herself but just as Xiang slightly brushed his lips against hers, the sudden rustling of leaves made him snap back.

He quickly wrapped his arms around Mei in a protective manner. He turned his head around and saw a shadowy figure disappear from his vision. The way the figure disappeared wasn't normal but that wasn't the only thing that made it different. Just the slight eye contact he made with it told him that the person meant harm. The aura that he sensed was filled with bloodlust.

Just as he began to move, his classmates suddenly appeared. All of them tired from the climb but they all held honest smiles on their faces. Maybe he was seeing things, but if he was, that was one hell of an illusion.

"Xiang? Are you okay?"

Xiang turned his attention back to Mei who was still in his arms. "It's nothing. Just my imagination I guess."

"Oh, maybe we should just relax. You seem kind of jumpy."

"That sounds good." Xiang took another glance back at the trees and didn't hear or see anything. Even if his mind was playing tricks with him, he wouldn't take any chance at Mei's safety.

"That was an awesome hike," exclaimed Tai.

The group was walking back to the buses after a short climb down the mountain. Some were exhausted but Tai was that strange guy that always had too much energy. "Tai," Yue huffed. "Slow down. Not all of us are as hyper as you."

"Don't be so critical Yue. I'm just getting to the bus faster."

Xiang and Mei watched the couple bicker to one another albeit laughing at the same time. Xiang couldn't help but be suspicious and cautious of what he saw earlier. He tried to push it out of his mind but he just couldn't.

Trying to get his mind off of it, he began to look around the area to find anything that would catch his interest. The thing he found though sent shivers up his spine. He had looked down to the ground and his classes' footprints but there was something strange about them. The prints should all be leading toward the mountain and his group was the one leading the rest. Then there was the strange part, there were footprints that were going the opposite way, leading to the bus.

There was something definitely wrong.

Xiang's eyes trailed up the path and saw the footprints lead right to a bus and then it trailed off to the side. At the side of the bus were a number of prints. Just from the look of it, Xiang could tell that someone was doing something to the bus.

Before anyone went any further, Xiang reached out and stopped Tai from advancing any further. He turned back and gave him a questioning look. "What's wrong Xiang?"

"No one go any further." Xiang reached down and picked up a stone. Several meters separated them from the bus but he wanted to be sure. "Everyone get back." The sound of his voice was serious and commanding. Not wanting to argue or question him, they did as they were told.

Xiang checked to make sure they would be safe in case of anything and he threw the stone straight at the bus. The stone made contact with a loud clank against the metal frame of the vehicle. Nothing seemed to happen at the moment but it was too soon to assume anything. As if on a timer, the bus suddenly burst into flames and only a few seconds later did it explode. Xiang quickly dived to the ground as shrapnel flew in all directions until the blast finally settled.

Everyone that hid behind trees was wide eyed and speechless. They could have all been killed if they got onto the bus or were to close. Xiang rose to the ground and looked behind to check if anyone was hurt. Luckily no one was.

When Xiang glanced forward, he saw the fiery wreckage where a bus once rested. Ignoring the whispers behind him, he walked toward the remains and inspected it. Xiang had the skill to read any situation quickly and be able to react to it accordingly so when he saw the bus' remains, he knew what caused the eruption of metal. Any normal person would notice the wires were cut from the fuel line but Xiang saw the fading scorch marks all over the interior. It was ingenious in a way; the fire created from the explosions would still remain and burn away any signs of the bombs ever being there.

By the time a proper inspector came to investigate the bus, there wouldn't be any evidence left to see besides the fuel lines decapitation. Xiang knew that this was no simple murder attempt. He then realized something critical. Whoever set up the trap would still be looking at their work to make sure it succeeded.

Xiang snapped his head up and quickly glanced around the area. At the corner of a tree, he could see a shadowy figure. The assassin didn't waste any time in his pursuit as he sprinted off into the assailant's direction. Xiang moved at a blinding speed but even at such a velocity, the figure noticed him.

The figure finally made his appearance and whipped out a gun. He knew at the rate Xiang was moving; there was no way he could escape so he had to fight. Gunfire resounded across the quiet forest as the man tried shooting Xiang but the Cantonese teen's keen eyes allowed him to easily dodge the array of bullets flying toward him.

In another burst of speed, Xiang appeared before the man and quickly knocked the gun into the air. Before the man could react to the attack, Xiang began a barrage of strikes and thrust into the man's chest, knocking him straight back into the woody tree. The man gasped as all his breath was blown out of him. Xiang stretched his arm out and the gun he knocked into the air fell into his open hand.

Immediately, he pointed the gun at the man's legs and shot at them. The man cried out in pain as his legs were stained with red. Now that he was disabled, there was no way he could escape.

Behind his head, Xiang could hear others running toward him. He turned his head around and to his surprise; he saw Mei was the one ahead of everyone. The girl finally reached Xiang and gasped as she saw the man lying against the tree.

"W-who is he?"

"I don't know, but I bet he's the one who fixed the bus."

Mei was speechless. Why was this dangerous person roaming around? And why would he want them killed? Just as she was about to ask these questions, the man took out another gun from his coat. Xiang reacted quickly and moved to push Mei out of the way.

The gun's echo rang in Xiang and Mei's ears as they lied on the ground. Slowly, both opened their eyes to see the other. They were perfectly fine. When they turned their attention to the man, Mei's eyes grew incredibly wide as she hid her face in Xiang's chest. He held her comfortingly, cursing that she had to see such a thing. The man pulled the trigger in his own mouth.

Xiang helped Mei up to her feet but the girl stood weak kneed. He understood why she would feel this way and he made sure he would be right there for her, for everyone second. Mei refused to lift her face from Xiang and he didn't care either. The way he held her, it was as if Xiang just being there erased any discomfort she held. The teacher finally arrived to the scene and she too was speechless.

An hour passed and the students were being lead to the spare bus. This one was safe. But because it was a tight squeeze, some were squished in to the seats while others found other means of arrangement. By that, an embarrassed Mei sat on Xiang's lap. She didn't mind the way he held her so comfortingly but others began to stare; some snickering and others jealous.

The teacher wanted no student to be left behind at that area as the authorities started to arrive. The police insisted that they take the innocents away as they underwent their investigation. Mei sighed and leaned into Xiang's chest more. It was obvious she wanted nothing else but to just rest now.

Xiang ran his hand gently through her hair. "Just rest Mei. I'll watch over you." Mei smiled. She trusted him completely and closed her eyes. Within seconds, Mei's soft breathing announced she was asleep and finally getting some deserved rest in the arms of her love.

The sun had fallen minutes ago as the students gathered around in the hotel's lounge. Most of the teens crowded around the plain white screen and others found sofas and chairs to sit in. For that night, everyone would be watching a movie and the majority vote was on a romantic comedy; obviously mostly girls dominated the class.

Luckily for the few couples of the class, they found that this would be the perfect opportunity to get more quality time with their loved one. Xiang and Mei found a comfy chair to sit in and Mei took the opportunity to sit in Xiang's lap. She had become accustomed to sitting this way from the bus ride and either way, she liked being so close to him.

The lights finally flashed off and the projector started to turn and present the movie. Almost all at once, the girls of the class cried out when they say the main character of the movie. The boys groaned in silence, this was definitely not their ideal movie.

Mei stirred slightly as she watched the movie. She thought this would focus more on actual comedy but clearly it was just showing handsome men to attract the mass of girls. Mei looked up to see Xiang to find he was looking back down at her.

"You want to get out of here?" she asked.

"You read my mind," he whispered.

The two shuffled out of their seats and quietly snuck out of the longue. It wasn't difficult since everyone was distracted by the movie. Once they emerged from the room, they let out a sigh of relief. The crisp night air was refreshing and the stars that lit the dark skies only added to the two's relaxation.

"So what are we going to do?"

"I'm sure there are a lot of activities for us to do," answered Xiang. "Like earlier in the day, I saw a poster about a submarine ride we could go to."

"That sounds so cool! Let's go."

"Alright. It didn't look too expensive. Just around a hundred per person."

"H-hundred? I don't want to make you spend that much. We can find something else less expensive to do."

"Don't be silly, Mei. It's really nothing. I want to do this."

Mei still looked reluctant to accept the offer but Xiang held her hand and began to lead her towards the sea. She sighed, she really didn't want Xiang to spoiling her like this but he was just as stubborn as she was so she knew there was no use arguing since she wanted to see the underwater creatures and landscape herself.

The two walked along the lonely road, admiring the peace they had together. They reached the docks and there rested a small house stand where a ticket salesman lazily leaning against his hand. Xiang and Mei walked up to the stand and looked at the options they had. In particular, the genuine war submarine caught both of their eyes.

Xiang paid for the ride and the salesman handed over two tickets. Mei excitedly grabbed Xiang's hand and ran across the dock to the end. The head of the dock was empty save for a bench where people could sit. The two took a seat and waited for their time slot to arrive. It seemed as though they were the only two there.

A cloaked figure suddenly appeared, walking down the dock as the sound of boots merging with the splashing of the waves. Neither Xiang nor Mei could see who it was because of the darkness and the fact that a hat hid their face. The two didn't want to stare any longer and returned their attention to the deep dark blue sea.

The transportation boat arrived right on time and only a few people were on staff. Xiang and Mei handed over their tickets and boarded the ship, followed by the cloaked figure. After a final call for any other passengers, the small boat speeded off into the sea. It only took a few minutes to arrive out at a deep enough part of the waters. There, a large submarine rested.

The design of the submarine was that classic war time. One of the crew men released the hatch of the underwater craft and urged the two to go in. Xiang and Mei did just that and when they entered, the lighting blinded them for a few seconds. Their eyes adjusted to the bright change from night to light and they could see how intricate the submarine was.

Mei looked around to see if there was a pilot around but it was just the two of them. "Where's the pilot?" she asked.

"I think this is mechanically operated. "

"Oh that's interesting."

The two took the opportunity to explore the vessel. Xiang somehow found his way to the weapons room where actual torpedoes rested. Except there was a huge sign that read 'Replicas.' There was another sign that said 'Do not touch.'

The two turned their heads when they heard a huge clank at the other end of the submersible. The two went over to the room and saw the cloaked figure from before. The hatch suddenly closed and a voice from the intercom told them that the sub would now be submerging into the waters.

They could feel the change in pressure as the sub went deeper into the waters. Xiang and Mei went to another end of the sub to attempt to see outside. Just then, the sound of a coat falling to the floor made them turn their attention to their fellow passenger.

The now revealed person was a young woman. She stood tall, strong and confident. Her hair was a deep honey brown but her skin was relatively pale. Her appearance aside, there was a defining trait that just screamed danger. Her eyes burned with the fire of hate.

"Who are you?" Xiang demanded.

"Kyra. You must be the assassin."

Xiang and Mei tensed. How did she know that? Xiang took a step back and made Mei get behind him. No matter how ignorant they were on information, Xiang knew she was dangerous.

"How do you know who I am?"

"You destroyed my employers just a few days ago."

"You're from the mining operation?"

"You could say that. I'm their top guard and I was away. And then I come back to the island to find it in ruins. One of my fellow workers was just barely breathing but he told me that an assassin attacked them. Then I looked at the security cameras footage and I saw you. I then tracked you down and somehow you survived that bus explosion."

"You're the one who set that up?"

"Yes and I left a decoy there to make sure I wouldn't be found. But obviously he failed."

Xiang knew a fight was approaching but he could risk Mei. "Listen, why don't we settle this somewhere else?"

She rolled her eyes and returned her hated gaze at him "Uh… Hell no. You're going to die."

Kyra quickly unsheathed a sword from her side but it wasn't any kind Xiang had ever used. It was thin. A rapier. The woman dashed off toward the two and Xiang sprinted off to fight. He had no weapons with him so he had to fight hand to hand.

The woman swung her blade toward him at a blindingly fast speed. Xiang just barely dodged it but jumping back but before he knew it, she was ready to strike again. Xiang tried jumping to the side, this time however he wasn't so lucky. The blade nicked his arm.

Xiang slid across the floor but his eyes grew wide as Kyra made her way toward Mei. Before he could reach them, Kyra had already gotten behind Mei and had the rapier centimeters from her throat.

"X-Xiang…" Mei gasped.

"Let her go!"

"Get to the ground," she commanded. Xiang seemed to refuse but the sword was only pressed closer to Mei, showing that she meant it.

Xiang grudgingly dropped to the floor. He had absolutely no choice but to. Kyra smirked and shoved Mei to the ground and ran over to the Asian. Kyra knew there was no way he could rise from the ground in such a distance and time.

She pulled back for a thrust and in an instantly threw the point forward. Unexpectedly Xiang spun around on the ground and knocked the sword to the side with his foot. Xiang leaped into the air and planted his feet to the ground before using a palm thrust to knock her back.

Xiang couldn't waste any time and ran forward and began to fight her hand to hand. However it wasn't so easy. Kyra took her own fighting stance and fought back in a furious manner. Xiang was able to meet each attack but at this rate, they wouldn't get anywhere. Xiang then thought of a risky plan and began to withdraw his strength slightly, allowing himself to be pushed back.

Eventually the two were fighting in the weapons room and Xiang saw what he needed. He waited until the right opportunity and caught Kyra's arm when she attempted to strike him. He then threw her into the walls and opened one of the torpedo hatches. He didn't waste any time in kicking her at her side and knocking her to the floor. He went over and threw her into the opened hatch. The woman fought to be released but Xiang forcefully shut the hatch.

He then locked it in place and went over to the controls and slammed the fire button. An alarm went off as the sound of the mechanism fired. Xiang panted and used the wall to support himself. Either way, the woman would be dead. If not from the ocean's pressure, then drowning.

Mei ran into the room and supported Xiang. "Are you okay?" she asked, worried.

"I'm fine… just tired. She was good. Are you okay?"

"Don't worry about me. I thought she was going to kill you."

"Yeah, so did I for a second. Thank goodness I remembered the torpedo hatches." Xiang took a moment to catch his breath and then wrapped his arms around Mei. "I'm sorry I put you in such danger."

"It's okay Xiang…"

"No it isn't," he interrupted. "You could have been hurt or even worse killed."

"Xiang… do you remember what we talked about the other night? I'll take this challenge. I want to be with you no matter what happens. I know you'll always be there and I'll do my very best to be there for you whenever you need me."

Xiang did remember. He never wanted this kind of life for her but it happened and there's nothing he can do but face it head on, with her. "Yes, I'll always be there for you. To protect you, to love you, whatever happens."

"We'll be there for one another. Always," she finished.

Disclaimer: Don't own Hetalia, just the plot

A/n: yes! Finally I updated and the journey continues for the both of them. I'm sorry it took so long to update, its just the chapters I found the most interesting I go faster. But anyway I hope you guys enjoyed the chapter and the fluff in the beginning and the action in the end because it might be relatively the same for the next chapter. However I won't give anything away, just that the trip is over now. Also if you were confused about the death, after a person obtains a certain depth under water, the pressure is too great for the body to handle and they are crushed. Okay, I'll try to get the updates on a more timely schedule from now on but I can't promise anything for the next two and a half weeks because I'm preparing something for my cousin's wedding :3 But I will continue to write. Reviews are greatly appreciated and are almost always responded to. Thank you my dear readers for waiting and until next time, see you later.