Zhang Fei – Yìdé
Sun Ce – Bófú
Zhou Yu – Gōngjǐn
Zhang Liao – Wényuǎn
Xiahou Yuan – Miàocái
Xiahou Dun – Yuánràng
Cao Pi – Zǐhuán

Guo Jia - Fèngxiào

Jia Xu – Wénhé
Xun Yu – Wénruò
Xun You - Gōngdá

Guan Yu and Zhang Fei joined his brother in the war tent. They were surprised to see that Diaochan was also in attendance, standing by Bei's side. This bothered Yu, she wasn't his wife. That wasn't her place to have.

"Why is she here?" Fei asked.

Leave it up to Fei to get to the heart of the matter. For once, Yu was okay with this because it was a question he wanted an answer to as well.

"You will find out soon enough," Bei replied. "I have word on our request for aid."

"Your expression tells me it is not good news," Yu remarked.

"Perceptive as always, brother. The news was not favorable. Our pleas fell on deaf ears. They have no troops to spare."

"So we are on our own then," said Yu as he stroked the length of his beard with a frown. He had a feeling this may be the case but he hoped that at least Gongsun Zan would help based on the past they shared.

"Bah! Who needs them? We will get our home back with our own hands. We will scatter that fool's forces to the winds. We are more than enough to handle Lu Bu!"

"We are not," Bei replied. "As much as I hate to admit it, our forces are too meager to stage a meaningful attack on Xu Province."

"So you mean to give up, brother? You would leave our sisters, mothers and your wife and child in the hands of that beast?" Fei exclaimed loudly.

"Peace, Yìdé. I have no plans on doing such a thing. There…there is one option left to us."

Bei hesitated. He knew that his brothers would react poorly to the news. Sensing his distress, Diaochan took hold of his hand and squeezed it. Bei looked to her and smiled, drawing strength from the action. Yu watched the two with a frown. Bei's wife was held captive by a vile man but instead of lamenting her loss, he sought comfort in the arms of another woman. This was not his brother. This woman has twisted his heart.

"What is this option? Do not leave us on bated breath, brother," said Fei.

Bei let out a heavy sigh but he seemed more resolved than before.

"We petition Cao Cao for aid."

Yu and Fei looked at each other. It seemed that they were checking to see if they had heard the outrageous suggestion of their sworn brother correctly. Seeing the mixture of surprise and confusion mirrored on each other's faces confirmed that what they heard was true. Bei thought to entreat with a man he had slighted not once but twice.

"I don't understand this jest," said Fei. His face was scrunched up into one of frustrated confusion.

"It is no jest," Bei replied.

"Cao Cao would never agree to aid us. We have interfered with him enough to earn his ire. What would even make you think to consider such an option?" said Yu.

"Because we can give him something he wants. I cannot claim that the idea was mine. That honor goes to Diaochan-"

"You consulted her about this before us?" Yu asked interrupting his brother. He was shocked that he sought council with his concubine before his sworn brothers. This woman was steadily driving a wedge between then. She was dangerous.

"Don't think of it that way. She saw me lamenting our misfortune and sought to ease my burden. She did not try to purposely insert herself in our affairs. I spoke of my woes to her unbidden; she did not try to pry them from me."

Yu was skeptical about this answer but he said nothing more. He couldn't disprove the explanation his brother had provided and thus had no choice but accept it.

"Go on, Diaochan. Tell them," Bei urged.

Diaochan was nervous. She didn't like the look Yu was giving her. It seemed that every time his eyes fell on her, they were marked by displeasure but it seemed especially poignant today. She knew why, of course. Yu could see that Diaochan had a special place in Bei's heart, just as he had in hers. He felt their relationship would overshadow the one they had with their sworn brother. It was stupid thought. Diaochan knew that no matter what she did, she could never compete with them so she didn't even try. That however, did not mean that she was content to fall behind either. She would fight to keep Bei's eyes trained on her as much as she could. She would ensure that her spot within his heart would stay secure.

"My Lord is too kind. I only said what he would have thought of on his own."

Bei chuckled. "I doubt that I would have, my love. Please, tell them."

Diaochan bowed to Bei before facing his sworn brothers.

"Cao Cao will accept the request for aid because he still holds a grudge against Lu Bu for the damage he has done to Yan Province. Cao Cao is also a man of opportunity. He would not pass up the chance to capture Xu Province."

"What! You suggest we give our home to that villain?" Fei cried out. He was so loud that it startled Diaochan who quickly moved to hide behind Bei.

"Yìdé, peace!" Bei admonished.

"I agree with him, brother. This woman suggests that we give the Province entrusted to you by Lord Tao Qian to the very man that slaughtered his family and pushed him to an early death. It would spit on the very memory of such an honorable man."

Bei had to struggle to hold a neutral expression as Yu spoke. He didn't know what Bei knew. He still thought of Tao Qian as an honorable man. He still thought of Cao Cao's assault as an unjust one. He could easily dispel these rumors right now by telling the truth but his pride demanded that he held his tongue.

"Do you suggest instead that we leave our families in the hands of Lu Bu? Faced with the decision to save them and the people of Xu to leaving them to an unknown fate, I choose to lesser of two evils. At least we know that Cao Cao would treat his people well. All of his Provinces have flourished."

Yu and Fei had to concede this point. Cao Cao was good to his people.

"Is there truly no other option for us?" Yu asked. While he would concede the point that Cao was good to his people, the fact still remained that he was a wicked man. His ruthlessness in war was well known.

"The only other option would be pleading to Yuan Shu. I doubt he would be willing to hear our pleas considering we are in the middle of war with him as we speak."

"We could betray Yuan Shao! We could hand over the other generals in this battle to prove our sincerity He would be happy to win this battle and we would secure his support!" said Fei excitedly.

"Yìdé, you suggest that our brother throw away his honor and betray the man he promised to assist?" Yu asked.

"I couldn't do such a thing," Bei confirmed. "I also trust Yuan Shu less than I do Cao Cao. Remember the events at Hulao Gate. Shu was content to betray his allies in battle to save his own skin. I fear that in a battle against Lu Bu, Shu would promise his aid and we would find ourselves alone when the time actually comes."

Yu nodded in agreement and Fei couldn't help but agree. It seems like their only option was to go to Cao Cao. Fei didn't like it and he could tell that Yu didn't either. Still, they swore to aid their brother in his quest to bring peace to the land. If enduring such a villain as Cao Cao was a means to achieving that peace, Fei would do so.

"Fine, brother. As always I will follow you…even if I do not like this plan."

"I am not fond of this course of action as well, but you have my support as always, brother."

Bei stepped forward and placed a hand on both his brother shoulders.

"I thank you both from the bottom of my heart, truly. A man could not ask for better brothers than you. We will weather this storm. We will save our families and we will begin again. Our dream of brining peace to this land is not over yet."

Fei and Yu each placed one of their hands on Bei's shoulders. The three men stood there bound together in a solidarity that could not be broken easily. Diaochan watched them with a mixture of happiness and jealousy. Happy that the man she loved was supported so stoutly during such a trying time. Jealous because as she looked at the three linked together in arms she knew that there would never be a place for her in that circle. She will always be just on the outside of it, relegated to watch with a gnawing yearning of a place she could never occupy.

The blood oath between men was far stronger than the bond between man and woman, this she knew but part of her wished to be in the forefront of Bei's heart. Her mind briefly thought back to Lu Bu. She was in the front of his heart before her betrayal. He put her above all things and she knew that he truly cared for her. Her heart had an odd ache in it that she hadn't felt since she had been taken in by Liu Bei. There was a part of her, hidden in the deepest recesses that missed Lu Bu and loved him still. Just as she would never truly be first in his heart, Liu Bei would never truly be first in hers.

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After an hour of waiting, Sun Ce was finally allowed an audience with Yuan Shu. He knew that making him wait was a power play by Shu. He constantly had to flaunt his dominance over others.

"Good Luck, Bófú. I'll be waiting right here for you."

"No need to worry, Gōngjǐn. I'll make sure he sees things our way."

"Without hitting him," Yu added helpfully.

Ce rolled his eyes. "Seriously? Have some faith. I know how important this is."

"Just wanted to make sure," Yu said with a soft smile. "You best get going. While he enjoys making others wait, he doesn't like to do so himself."

"Tch, can't wait to be done with this asshole," Ce muttered as he turned to head to the audience chamber.

Zhou Yu watched his sworn brother depart and couldn't help but echo his sentiment. Yuan Shu was truly a despicable man who was intent on holding Sun Ce back. It is a well known fact that Shu held the Sun family in contempt and if given the option, he would continue to do so until the line died out. There was a chance that their plan to get autonomy would not work because of this deep seeded hate but they had to try. They were never going to flourish under him. For the fifth time today, Yu wished he was able to attend the meeting with Ce. While he trusted in his brother, he also knew that when he got frustrated, he tended to speak from the heart. That was exactly what they did not need to do for Shu. The man needed to be constantly plied with platitudes to get a good reaction out of him. Still, Ce knew what was at stake and Yu was confident that he would, as he always has, put Wu's needs first in his heart and do what needs to be done.

Ce arrived at the door to the audience chamber. The servant standing in front of it recognized him immediately. Ce was always kind to the servants in Shu's palace and for this reason, he had a lot of fans. The servant bowed respectfully then moved closer to whisper to him.

"I must warn you, My Lord; Lord Shu did not respect your wishes for a private meeting. He is inside with Lord Chenglei."

Ce stroked his chin in thought. He was grateful to get this information beforehand because he certainly would have been surprised and angry if he walked in without any knowledge of this. How very like Shu to go back on his word. It was okay. Ce could deal with this. He reached inside of his robe and took something into his hand. He took hold of the servant's hand and transferred the contents to it in the guise of cupping his hands in friendship.

"Thanks for that. Take care of your little ones, okay?" Ce said with a smile. When he pulled back, the servant got to see what Ce had given him. His eyes widened upon seeing two silver taels sitting in the palm of his hands. He quickly hid them within his robe and thanked Ce profusely. Ce didn't feel as if he did anything particularly special. It was only two taels. That was nothing to get excited over…though he supposed that showed exactly how little Shu paid his servants if at all.

Ce gave the man's shoulder a pat. "Don't mention it, can you announce me?"

The servant suddenly remembering his role apologized and opened the doors to the audience chamber. He stepped in and dropped to his knees prostrating for his Lord and his guests.

"Your humble servant announces Lord Sun Ce styled Bófú as your honored guest."

"Yes, yes I know who he is. Be gone you fool," said Shu as he waved the servant away.

The servant got to his feet and bowed to Shu and Chenglei once more before leaving the room in haste. Sun Ce stepped into the room, cupped his hand over his fist and gave the usual salute.

"Greetings, My Lord," said Ce. He then turned to Chenglei and repeated the gesture. "And greetings to you, My Lord."

Neither man returned the gesture but Ce didn't let it bother him. He knew that Shu was purposely trying to irritate him. The minute he decided to invite another into their private meeting told him that much. He wouldn't let him anger him. His purpose here was much too important for that.

Shu studied Ce. He didn't react to seeing Chenglei here nor did he react to not being saluted back in respect. He was certain he would have gotten angry knowing the man's hot blooded nature. This did not please him. He wanted Ce to react. He needed someone to be in a worse mood than he was.

Shu was not making any headway in his battle with his brother. His attacks were akin to an ocean's tide crashing harmlessly against a palace walls. His brother refused to be moved no matter how many forces Shu threw at him. He couldn't continue on this path. He would never achieve the glory he so richly deserved through these means. He needed power but it remained elusive to him. His name only got him so far. He needed a means to show others that he was a man to follow. He thought beating his brother would achieve this but his brother stubbornly resisted him. Apparently he wasn't quite as incompetent as he originally thought.

To alleviate his foul mood, Shu thought to mess with his least favorite family. One might have assumed that Shu would have dropped his grudge against the Sun family when Sun Jian died but they would have been wrong. Everything he hated about Sun Jian he saw in his spawn. Ce was a talented warrior, a charismatic leader and a man of conviction. He was essentially everything Shu was not and it irritated him. He knew that given the chance, Ce would surpass his father as a leader and he could bring back the glory of Wu.

"Report," Shu snapped. His train of thought had led him into an even fouler mood. If Ce wouldn't react accordingly, then he was of no use to him.

"We went to Wan Castle as commanded. Yuan Shao did not have any involvement in the affairs there. It was between Cao Cao and Zhang Xiu."

"This doesn't make sense…when we were together, my brother constantly pushed to expand his domain but now he cowers and reacts only to my movements? Has he truly devoted his life to foiling my ambitions?" Shu groused.

"My Lord, perhaps these musings are best saved from the ears of your servants," remarked Chenglei.

Shu looked up suddenly remembering Ce's existence. "Oh yes, go away. I will call for you when you are needed again," said Shu.

"There is another matter I need to discuss with you before I depart," said Ce.

Shu let out an exaggerated sigh before signaling him to continue. Pulling from the memory of the plan he and Yu had practiced beforehand, he began their ruse. He had to sell this lie. If he failed to convince Shu, his ambition would be stopped before it had a chance to truly begin.

"I request your permission to attack Liyang,"

"Denied, I do not have the troops to devote to a pointless cause."

"I understand. For that reason, I only ask for the division that once served under my father."

"You plan on attacking Liyang with only a thousand or so troops?" Shu asked incredulously.

"That's correct," Ce replied.

Shu was certain that Ce had to be joking but the look on his face told him he was not. He wasn't even wearing the usual cocky smile that annoyed him to no end. Liyang was a major city in Yang Province, which Shu had chosen to make his home base. The problem was, the Province already had a governor by the name of Liu Yao before Shu arrived and he wasn't keen to let the region go without a fight. Shu led several campaigns against Liu Yao, but he managed to rebuff each one. Strangely enough, Liu Yao never tried to force Shu out of the Province. Thus they occupied the same region in an uneasy accord.

"No man would agree to go to battle against such overwhelming odds," said Shu, irritated that Ce believed he would succeed where his forces had not for months.

"Those men served under my father; when they find out the reason for my campaign, they will gladly march."

"Do enlighten me. What is the reason for this doomed campaign?"

"As you know, Liu Yao's family and mine have had bad blood between them for years. He apparently has decided to reignite this feud by attacking my mother and my uncle. I need a force to repel the attack and rescue my family."

"Heartbreaking. I still cannot approve this. Even if your father's forces are only a meager thousand or so troops, I truly cannot spare any forces for something so trite."

There it was. Shu saw a flash of anger in Ce's eyes. Shu adjusted his position from his slouched posture to adopt a straighter one. He could feel a giddy sort of fluttering in his stomach at the prospect of Ce blowing up in anger only to be beaten down and reminded of exactly where his place was in the grand scheme of things. Ce however, disappointed again.

"What if I proposed a trade?" he asked. His calm had returned. The anger that he saw simmering beneath just beneath the surface seemed to have dissipated.

Shu scoffed aloud. "What could you possibly trade me?"

"The Imperial seal," Ce replied. That infuriating cocky smile appeared on his face as he spoke.

Shu's mouth dropped open. He could hear Chenglei make an audible gasp in surprise as well. He knew it! He just knew that Jian had the seal. He knew that bastard had stolen it. Now his son held it and tried to bargain with it? Did he not know the value of such a treasure? What a fool!

"Give it to me," said Shu, unnecessarily stretching out each word with a harsh hiss. If snakes could speak, Ce imagined that they would sound just like Shu did in that moment.

"Do we have a deal?" Ce asked, still smiling. He was entertained by the sheer frustration that Shu had playing across his visage.

"I could just kill you and take it, boy. Do not test me."

"You could kill me, yes but I guarantee you will never find it. None of my family or forces knows of its location. You kill me and the location dies with me."

Shu was shaking in anger. Ce was entirely too cocky to be bluffing. This little upstart had him at a disadvantage and he detested him for it.

"Give me the seal and you will get your troops."

"Troops first, then the seal. I also want your word that after you receive the seal, you won't immediately turn your forces on me for any reason."

Shu's face was flushed red as he struggled to hold in his anger. He tried to speak but could only make odd sputtering noises. He reminded Ce of a kettle filled with water that had just begun to boil.

Chenglei took this opportunity to lean over to his Lord and speak in hushed tones.

"This is a deal you should take. Your forces have not been able to defeat Liu Yao with greater numbers. He will fall to him with ease. Even if he doesn't, with the power you gain from the seal, you could crush him at your leisure."

Yes. Chenglei was right. With the Imperial Seal he could gain the power that he sought for so long. Yes he would lose a thousand or so troops but what was that in comparison to what he would gain? He would be a fool to not accept this offer.

"Very well, Sun Ce. I relinquish your father's troops to your care immediately. Do with them as you will. While you go and fetch them, I shall write a decree stating that the troops are yours and yours alone to command and I will not interfere in any way. However, you will not get that decree until the seal is delivered to my hands.

"Fair enough," said Ce with a smile. He did it. He actually did it! He got Yuan Shu to agree. This was just the first step in his plan to bring his family back to glory. They still had a long way to go, but this victory felt good. The land had better watch out because Sun Ce was ready to make his mark on history.

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Lingqi attacked Liao with teeth bared and the ferocity of a tiger. There was a grim sort of determination on her face that Liao didn't like to see. While he was successfully blocking her attacks she was, to his surprise, pushing him back. It was an impressive showing but she was still green in terms of fighting.

"What are you doing? This is inefficient," said Liao.

"How inefficient can it be when you can't even fight back?" Lingqi said. Her words came out in ragged breaths and she was breathing heavily.

He parried her next attack. Foolishly she had gotten complacent and did not expect it. She was momentarily knocked off balance. Liao took advantage of it and pushed his attack. He attacked with his first axe in an overhead strike. Lingqi blocked it with her cross voulge. Liao quickly followed up his attack with a side strike from his second axe. Lingqi's first reaction was to dodge but she could not. Liao had her weapon locked with his. Instead she separated her voulges from each other and blocked the second axe.

"You left yourself open!" Liao barked as he leveled a front kick to her midsection. Lingqi had no choice but to take the blow but she jumped backwards with it to mitigate the brunt of the damage.

Finally free of Liao's axe, Lingqi reconnected her voulge. Without missing a beat, she threw the weapon at him. The weapon spun quickly towards him with the power of a tornado, cutting quickly through the wind. Liao knew this move. It was one he and she had worked on many times before till she perfected it. Lingqi's small frame would lull her enemies into a false sense of security. They constantly underestimated just how strong she actually was for a woman. The moved worked as such: Lingqi would throw the weapon with such force that one of two things would happen; if her opponent did not block or dodge it, they would be cut in half. If they did block it, it would knock them off balance and the force of the ricochet would knock the weapon back into her direction, allowing her to retrieve it and follow up with a counter attack.

Most of her enemies would block the weapon as they didn't realize the power behind her attack. Liao however knew exactly what to expect and thought the best option for him at this point was to dodge. She couldn't retrieve her weapon this way. It was a dangerous attack and he warned her to only use it in desperate situations as it left her vulnerable until she could retrieve her weapon once more.

Liao dodged the attack with practiced ease. He knew that Lingqi's next move would be to dodge any attacks from him while maneuvering herself towards her weapon. At least that should have been her next move. To Liao's surprise Lingqi had other plans in mind. Distracted by her cross voulge, Lingqi took that opportunity to flank him. For a brief moment after dodging her voulge, he was left wide open for her surprise attack. Leaping into the air, Lingqi kicked at Liao. Surprised and unprepared for the attack, her foot collided with his jaw.

It was a clean hit but not enough to put a warrior of Liao's caliber down. Before she could hit the ground Liao rammed the butt of both axes into her abdomen. Lingqi dropped to the ground like a sack of rice. She curled up, her arms gripping her stomach as she groaned in pain.

"Do you surr-" Liao began to say but was cut off by Lingqi striking out at his feet and knocking him onto his backside.

She sprang up and threw herself on top of him knocking him flat on his back. With her elbow pressed into his throat she looked at him with a triumphant grin.

"Do you surrender?"

Liao couldn't help but smile. She had indeed come along way. Of course if this had been a serious battle, he wouldn't have been so lax with her. Still the truth remained that as a warrior, she was truly coming into her own.

"Not bad," he replied.

"Not bad?" She said with a pout which reminded Liao that despite having the heart and skill of a warrior, she was still a young woman.

"Your innovation is admirable but you expended entirely too much energy in the beginning of the fight. Had you conserved some of your energy, I wouldn't have been able to take you down as easily as I did. That said, you did attempt to make the best out of a bad situation and I am proud of you."

Proud; hearing that filled her with warmth that couldn't be explained in words. Liao was someone she greatly respected. To hear that that he was proud of her made her feel accomplished. If only she could get the same validation from her father. She was certain that if she continued on this path, Lu Bu would one day acknowledge her as a true warrior…as a daughter…as someone to love.

"Thank you, Wényuǎn. You don't know how much that means to me."

Liao didn't understand what she meant by her comment but he didn't question her about it.

"I'm glad you are happy but don't forget everything else I said. Pay heed to it and become a better fighter."

"I will. I swear it."

Liao could feel the sincerity in her words. It made him swell with a sort of pride that could only be felt by a teacher whose student had gotten just a little bit closer to becoming a master in their own right.

"Good. Now please get off of me. This is a bit…inappropriate."

"Oh…OH!" Lingqi exclaimed surprise, only now realizing that she was still perched on top of him after she had tackled him to the ground.

At that exact moment they were interrupted by an unexpected visitor.

"Wényuǎn, I need to speak with…," Ling paused and started at the two in their precarious position.

"What do you want, Ling?" Liao asked as he nudged Lingqi who had frozen on top of him in embarrassment.

Liao's touch seemed to bring him back to her senses. She quickly got off of him and lowered her head in absolute mortification.

"I…want to hire you…," said Ling as his eyes darted between the two of them.

The truth was Ling was at his wits end. When he originally agreed to help Lu Bu and Chen Gong, it was with the understanding that they would help him get revenge on the family that had shunned him. Ling delivered on his part but his family still lives. He tried to air his grievances with Gong but he was ignored, forgotten now that he no longer had a role to play. Talking to Lu Bu was also impossible. Quite frankly the man terrified Ling. He was afraid to even look him in the eye let alone speak to him. So Ling decided to take matters into his hands. He would hire someone to do what Gong and Bu had promised him. The problem was his brother was an adept fighter. There were few men that could match him in battle. Therefore, he couldn't hire just anyone to do this job. That is what led him to Liao.

"I'm not for sale," Liao replied as he stood and picked up his weapons.

"Come now, everyone has a price."

"I don't," Liao replied.

Of course he was going to make this difficult. Fine, if the temptation of riches wouldn't tempt him then he would appeal to his warrior side.

"Come now, Wényuǎn. I'm certain being relegated to babysitting this girl is an insult to one of your skills. I can guarantee you a better challenge if you'd only work for me."

"How dare you!" Lingqi began. Liao raised a hand to block her advance towards Ling. She looked at him angry and confused. He merely shook his head and reluctantly, she backed down.

"I wonder what Lord Lu Bu would think if he learned that you were trying to steal one of his generals from him."

"I wonder what Lord Bu would think if he found out the type of training you have been giving his innocent little girl," Ling spat back.

"This conversation is over, Ling. Leave my presence or I shall remove you."

Ling clenched his hands into fists. Why did he have to be so damn stubborn? Liao took a step forward, his axes readied in his hands. It seems he truly did intend to remove him. Frustrated, Ling stormed away from the pair. In his haste, he would have knocked Lady Yan off her feet had it not been for the interference of Gao Shun. Shun caught Yan in one arm and steadied the stumbling Ling with the other.

Secured on his feet Ling slapped Shun's hand away and stormed off, still angry at Liao's rejection. Shun started to go after him but was held back by Yan placing a hand on his chest stopping him in his tracks.

"He is rude but not worth your trouble," she said.

Shun hesitated for a moment then conceded. Unconsciously he took hold of her hand which still rested on his chest. He ran his thumb lightly over her knuckles before realization of whose hand it was that he was caressing set in. Quickly he dropped her hand as if it were ablaze. He took a few steps back from her, dropped to his knees and bowed low.

"Please accept my apologies, my lady. I-I did not realize what I was doing,"

Yan offered him a smile. "Touching my hand is hardly anything to apologize for."

Without waiting for him to reply she continued on her way to the garden to see Lingqi. Thought she did not show it, her heart was racing. There was something in that touch; something that told her his true feelings. She wasn't sure of how he felt about her before that that small gesture spoke volumes to her. The way he held her hand…it had been so long since she felt such tenderness. It sent tingles through her from her head to her toes and left a comforting warmth in its wake.

Shun on the other hand was not having such tender feelings. He internally scolded himself for slipping in such way. The feelings he had for Yan could never be realized. He was a general of Lu Bu. He could not covet his wife…even if his Lord did treat her dreadfully. This was something that could not be repeated. Resolved, Shun followed behind Yan to the garden where Liao and Lingqi had been training.

He found the three standing in a circle. When he arrived Yan had looked over to him and gave him a warm smile. Her smile could melt even the heart of the hardest man. How could Lu Bu not treasure such a woman? No, this line of thought could not be followed. He had to maintain his distance. He did not return the smile. Instead he saluted Liao. The man in question returned the gesture after setting his axes down.

"Would you believe it, Shun? Lingqi managed to get a hit on Master Liao!"

Shun looked at Liao with an eyebrow quirked in surprise. He shrugged in response.

"She's getting better; can't take it easy on her anymore."

Lingqi beamed in pride at her teacher's words. She was closer to being someone her father could look on with pride.

"Soon I will be able to help father in battle," said Lingqi.

While Yan wasn't too thrilled with the idea of Lingqi joining Lu Bu in battle, she was happy that Lingqi was becoming a better fighter. Her husband had many enemies. She didn't want her daughter to be unprepared for the dangers that came with being the daughter of Lu Bu.

"Thank you for working with her Master Liao. Please continue to do so until she is an exceptional warrior."

Liao bowed to Yan, the gesture meant to let her know he acknowledged her request. Yan bowed to him then looped her arm around Lingqi's.

"Come my dear. Tell me exactly how you managed to hit him."

Lingqi nodded and allowed her mother to pull her off. Just before they could re-enter the palace she turned back to Liao.

"Don't worry, Wényuǎn, I will speak to father. I won't let Ling sully your name."

Liao folded his arms across his chest and shook his head.

"Don't bother. That man barks but he has no fangs. He won't do anything and even if he did, his accusations are baseless. I'm not worried about it and neither should you."

Lingqi studied Liao's face for a few moments. It was easy to see the confidence he had in his words. She decided to take his advice and not worry. She gave him a nod before heading off with her mother. Shun went to follow behind the pair when Liao stopped him.

"Do you regret my appointing you to watch over Lady Yan?" Liao asked once they were alone.

I do not. I understood the need for it. What Lady Yan said was true. Lord Lu Bu does indeed have many enemies. His family is vulnerable and they need protecting."

"I agree, but this is not a task assigned to you by our Lord. This is a request made solely by me. You are a capable warrior. I'm sure you would rather have glory in battle rather than watching over another's wife."

Shun hesitated. He needed to choose his words carefully as to not give his true feelings away.

"The same could be said of you, Wényuǎn. As any warrior, I do wish to make my name known on the field of battle, but this cause is a worthy one as well. I do not regret the posting you have given me."

Liao nodded his head in agreement. He knew that Shun was the proper man for this job. He tried to look after Yan and Lingqi as much as he could but Lu Bu and Chen Gong constantly called on him for battle as he was the second strongest warrior in Lu Bu's army. He needed someone he could trust to watch over the two in his stead. Shun's performance in retrieving Yan and Lingqi from Chang'an made him the obvious choice. He was glad that the man did not resent him for assigning him to what could be seen as a menial task.

"Then I will trust you to take care of them when I cannot."

Shun nodded and saluted Liao. He then went on to catch up to his charges.

Meanwhile, a jilted Ling was storming through the streets of Xiapi back to the home he had taken for himself. He was right back to where he started with no clue on how to get revenge on his damnable family.

"Be careful friend," said someone close to Ling. So wrapped up in his fury, he hadn't even noticed that he almost plowed into someone.

He was fully ready to unload all of his pent up anger at the man when he got a good look at him. He was a large man, much larger than him. His arms looked as if they would pop his head off should they wrap around his neck. He had a wild look in his eyes that matched the wild full beard that grew on his face. His appearance made Ling swallow down every insult he was prepared to hurl. He certainly did have the look of a fearsome foe. Perhaps…

"My apologies; I have been having a bad day. Tell me; are you one of Lord Lu Bu's men?"

"I am," the man replied. His voice was coarse, giving Ling the silly notion that he had a diet of ground up rocks each day to achieve the effect.

"I see…yes I see. I am Ling. Formally of the Xiahou family. It was with my help that Lord Lu Bu was able to seize Puyang," said Ling. 'Pity he couldn't hold it,' he thought to himself bitterly.

"Ah, then you are someone to be treated with respect," the man replied and he gave him a salute showing him deference.

Ling returned the gesture. This was going well so far.

"Would you honor me with your name?"

"Of course; I am known as Cao Xing," the man replied.

"It is an honor to make your acquaintance, Cao Xing. This may be a bit presumptuous of me, but you look to be a man of skill. I have need of someone such as you. Tell me, would you be interested in increasing your wealth? I swear on my life that the work involved would not go against your master in any way. In fact, it would aid him in the long run."

A smile slowly crept onto Xing's face. It was a full tooth smile which made him look like a wolf rather than a man. For the briefest of moments Ling had a fear that the man would eat him right where he stood. Smiling was not something this man should do often. It did not put any heart at ease. It only served to terrify.

"Such things should not be spoken in the middle of the road. Perhaps you have somewhere else we can go to discuss such sensitive affairs?"

Ling grinned. Finally he found someone with a decent head on their shoulders!

"But of course. Please, join me in my home. We can discuss this over a drink or two."

Xing nodded and the two walked off together; Ling one step closer to getting his revenge on his family.

=#=

Dun woke up inside of his bedroom. It was preferable to waking up in a cell but his rest was troubled one none the less. He didn't have anymore nightmares in which Zhuyue blamed him for her death but he still dreamed of her. His dreams were a constant reminder that she was no longer around.

It didn't matter. He was rested well enough. Today, he had an important task. His parents had informed him that the preparations for Zhuyue's funeral ceremony were complete. Dun wasn't happy they went behind his back to do this. As her husband he felt the task should have fell to him but his mother was insistent that Zhuyue's soul needed to be put at rest less she roam the earth forever.

Xiaolian needed to be told before the funeral the fate of her adopted mother. He hadn't had the chance to speak with her about the topic after he was arrested as Yuan and Jiao insisted on keeping her for a few days to give him some time alone. Due to his parent's meddling, he couldn't afford to put this off any longer.

Dun got ready for the day and headed out to retrieve Xiaolian. He arrived at Yuan's home in short order. Yuan greeted his brother warmly.

"Feeling better?"

"You don't have to ask me that every time you see me," Dun replied.

"Don't be an ass. I only ask because I care."

"You and everyone's constant concern is only serving to annoy me."

Dun sighed in frustration. He knew that Yuan truly cared about his wellbeing but it was annoying having so many people ask the same question. Who would feel okay if their wife had recently died? There hasn't been nearly enough time for that wound to heel. So at the moment, the question was just an annoyance. Still, he knew that Yuan wasn't someone who just offered empty sympathy. He truly did care. A part of Dun knew that he should apologize for snapping the way he did but another part of him told him to not bother. Why should he go out of his way to make others feel better? There was a selfish part of him that wanted others to feel just as shitty as he did. He decided to heed the former part of his subconscious. Yuan didn't deserve his ire.

"Sorry, Miàocái," was the short reply. He didn't need to say anything more. Yuan nodded in understanding of his brother's intentions.

"So, finally going to tell Xiaolian what happened?" Yuan asked.

"Can't put it off any longer. Mother and father pretty much saw to that."

"You know how they are…helpful to the point of being overbearing. Come on, she spends most of her time in the room we've given her."

Yuan led Dun through his home to the room Xiaolian occupied. He rapped lightly on the door but they received no answer.

"That's pretty much how she has been. She keeps to herself and doesn't usually come out of her room unless it's to eat. Seems like she reverted to the way she was when you first got her."

"Hmm, mind if I go in alone?"

"Course not. Take your time."

=#=

Xiaolian could hear speaking just outside of her door. The voices were muffled so it was hard to make out exactly who it was. It didn't matter to her. She didn't care. She continued to gaze out of the window she sat beside. The room she was in was towards the back of the house so there wasn't much to look at. That was fine by her because she wasn't really staring at anything particular. She was too wrapped up in her own mind to truly focus on anything.

There were footsteps now. They were crossing the room to her. She considered facing her visitor but decided against it. It was probably Yuan coming to check on her again. He was kind to do so but she didn't want to talk to him. She wanted her mother and father.

"Xiaolian-"

Dun's voice floated to her ears. Her heart began to race. He didn't sound the same. His voice didn't have that gruffness with the underlining kindness that she could always hear despite how much he tried to hide it. There was a distinct sadness in his tone. She didn't like it. It made her feel sick because she knew exactly what made him sad.

"She's dead…isn't she?" Xiaolian said cutting him off.

"I figured you knew," Dun replied with a sigh.

"The way everyone acted around me. They would whisper to hide it so I wouldn't know but I knew."

She looked to him with a frown, but that emotion wasn't reflected in her eyes. Her eyes held emptiness in it that Dun hadn't seen in a long time. It felt that the progress they made with her had been stripped away entirely.

"I knew," she whispered. "Why did she die? Did someone kill her?"

"She died helping one of our allies," Dun replied. There was no point in giving her the details. She didn't need to know.

"I want to go home. Can we go home?"

"Yeah, we can go home," Dun replied.

Xiaolian pushed away from the window and stood. She led the way out of the room. Yuan tried to speak to her, but she didn't acknowledge him, wrapped up in her own thoughts, buried by the sadness she tried to keep at bay. She knew Zhuyue was dead. Something told her that she was but she still didn't want to believe it. It seemed like everything she loved was stolen away from her. Would Dun die too? She wanted to believe that he was too strong to die but she believed that Zhuyue was strong too. She didn't like this feeling. There was an ache in her chest that wouldn't go away no matter how many times she tried to make it stop. She didn't want to feel this way anymore. She just wanted Zhuyue back. She would give anything to have her back.

"That was quick," Yuan said to Dun once he exited the room.

"She already knew. Thanks for keeping an eye on her."

"Don't mention it. Always here for you brother."

=#=

The days that followed, Dun ensured they were spent together. Xiaolian tried to lock herself in her room but Dun wouldn't allow her to cut herself off. He forced her to train and study. He refused to let her be lost within herself. Stubbornly, Xiaolian kept herself withdrawn but Dun wasn't the type of person to give up easily. Zhuyue would never forgive him if he did.

The first day of Zhuyue's funeral arrived too soon in Dun's opinion. He and Xiaolian stood side by side as they greeted their guest in the courtyard of their home where the funeral was being held. They both wore black dress robes as per tradition. They accepted gifts and words of sorrow offered by those who came to mourn. As her body was never recovered, everyone paid their respects to the altar they had prepared for the event.

Neither Dun nor Xiaolian showed any emotion during the proceedings. Not a single tear was shed from either of them. All others who knew Zhuyue freely expressed their sorrow, but they remained stone-faced through it all. Though Xiaolian was not his true child through blood, you couldn't tell it on that day so similar in temperament they were.

As per tradition, the funeral lasted for seven days. Cao and his family had gone every day since the first and today wouldn't be any different. Just as they were about to leave a servant stopped him.

"You better have a good reason for interrupting me on today of all days."

"My apologies, Master. I tried to tell him that you did not wish to be disturbed but he insisted that it was of the utmost importance."

"Who said this?" said Cao.

"The messenger did, My Lord. He said it was a matter of life and death."

"He comes uninvited and demands my attention on a day of mourning? He is lucky I don't have him beheaded for such insolence," said Cao "Tell him I will see him at my leisure."

The servant bowed and ran off to deliver his master's message.

=#=

On the way to Dun's home, Cao ran into Guo Jia. Like Cao and his family, Jia had attended all seven days of mourning. Jia bowed to his master but he didn't have his usual smile. Zhuyue's passing hit all members of the inner circle particularly hard.

"My Lord," Jia said softly.

Cao nodded in response to his greeting.

"I received a messenger today carrying a message of life and death."

Jia rose a brow slightly in surprise. "What was the message?"

"I don't know, I told him to wait. I figured if there was something of great import, you would have let me know already."

"You place such faith in me, My Lord," Jia replied with a smirk.

"Well? Is there any immediate danger to my forces that I have to worry about?"

"No immediate threat to your forces or territory, no. My guess is that the messenger is from Liu Bei."

"Why would Liu Bei be sending a messenger to me?" Cao asked incredulously.

"Ah, that is something we can speak about later…it seems that we are here."

Jia was right. So engrossed in their conversation, Cao did not realize that they had arrived at Dun's home. Reluctantly, he agreed to drop the issue until after they paid their respects.

By the time Cao met with the messenger, night had fallen. He expected the man to be irate but he seemed grateful to simply be seen.

"Thank you for taking the time to speak with me, Lord Cao," the messenger began. "I apologize for disturbing you on a day such as this. Believe me; I wouldn't have if it weren't of the utmost importance."

"And exactly what is this matter of grave importance?"

"My Lord Liu Bei sent me. The vile and traitorous Lu Bu has stolen Xu Province from him."

So Jia was right. It was from Liu Bei. His intuition never ceased to amaze Cao Cao.

"I still don't get why you have come to me," said Cao.

"Lord Liu Bei is in need of your assistance. He humbly requests that you aid him."

"This is a joke, right?"

"This is no jest! Liu Bei truly requires your assistance. Please, sir! Do the honorable thing and help my lord," the messenger pleaded.

"The honorable thing? Such as when your lord aided a man who unjustly murdered my family? Or when he decided to shelter the man who stole Yan Province from me?"

The messenger lowered his head in shame.

"My Lord has only does what he believes is right. There may have been mistakes but he did not make them with evil intent. Please reconsider."

Cao scoffed. "Liu Bei has quite the nerve to ask me for help. Unlike him however I take the time to think before I act. You will be treated as a guest while I consider his request."

The messenger thanked him profusely before being led out by one of the servants.

Cao thought about Bei's request. His initial reaction was to not assist him. This opinion however, was based purely on emotion. He needed another prospective. Cao decided to visit his son Cao Chong. He hadn't spent much time with Chong since the accident. It pained him to see his favored son in such a state. The times he did visit him, however, he was surprised to see him studying diligently. Even if he might not take his advice, it was worth hearing someone else's opinion.

To Cao's surprise, Chong already had a visitor. Chong and Pi looked to Cao in surprise as he entered the room.

"Father?" said Chong as he placed a scroll he had been reading to Pi down onto his lap.

Pi stood and saluted his father. "I will leave you two alone."

"Wait, I am glad you are here. I wish to get your prospective on something," said Cao, holding his hand up to stop Pi.

The way things were going; Pi was to be his heir. It would be good to see his train of though on matters such as these.

Pi stared at his father curiously but sat back down.

"It appears that Lu Bu has seized Xu Province. Liu Bei has requested that I assist him in getting it back. What are your thoughts on this proposal?"

"No!" Chong cried out. Both Pi and Cao looked to him in surprise. That was an uncharacteristically loud response for the normally reserved man.

"We were in the right when we attacked Xu Province. We were avenging the death of our family! Liu Bei sided with the man who caused our pain. That Province deserves its misfortune for what was done to grandfather…for what was done to me."

Cao frowned. The deepest scars Chong received on that day were not external it seems.

"And you, Pi? What are your thoughts?"

"Isn't this something to be discussed with your advisors?" Pi asked.

"I intend on speaking with them at first light. I merely wanted your opinion," Cao replied.

Pi thought for a few moments before answering. "I think you should help him."

"You can't be serious, Zǐhuán!" Chong exclaimed.

Cao raised a hand to silence Chong.

"Explain your reasoning," he commanded.

"If Liu Bei is asking you for help, that means he cannot take Lu Bu on alone. If he cannot take Lu Bu on, then he certainly cannot handle our forces. We help him take the Province back then seize it from him for ourselves. There won't be anything he can do."

Cao stroked his chin as he listened to Pi. He did have a point. He would of course discuss this further with his advisors but just as he hoped, he received the other perspective he had been looking for.

"Thank you both for your opinions," said Cao.

"Father…what are you going to do?" Chong asked.

"I'm not sure yet. I will discuss it with my advisors in the morning."

With that, Cao left the two alone.

=#=

The next morning, Cao called an emergency meeting with his advisors. He informed them of the situation and they gave him their opinions. To his surprise, not many were for helping Liu Bei. They had remembered well the hardship he had caused them and wanted no part in helping him.

Xun Yu was one of the people who was for assisting Liu Bei though his voice was being overshadowed by the others.

"Why should we waste our forces helping that coward Liu Bei? We went through such hardships because of his meddling!" said Liu Ye.

"But we cannot leave someone like Lu Bu in power for too long!" argued Xun Yu. He will gather power and set his sights on us. Best for us to take him out before he becomes too strong."

"Bah! You can't fool me," Liu Ye retorted with a sneer. "You only wish to help Liu Bei because of his supposed connection to the Han. We all know your loyalty to it. Why Lord Cao Cao tolerates your presence is beyond me!"

"I have never given Lord Cao a reason to doubt me. I have always been loyal. Why do you constantly show your distrust to me?"

"Enough!" Cao's voice boomed out over the others. "I called you here for your advice, not to hear you bicker like children!"

Both men mumbled their apologies and saluted Cao.

"Fèngxiào, you have remained quiet thus far. What are your thoughts?"

Jia saluted his master. "I think you should help him. It is true that leaving Lu Bu alone for too long would bode ill for us. Chen Gong would set his sights on us once they have the power to do so."

Cao nodded then looked to Jia Xu who hung back in the corner away from the others.

"And you, Wénhé? What is your opinion?"

Jia Xu looked surprised to be called on. All eyes fell on him and he could see the disdain in most of them. Not many within Cao's army truly trusted him. He didn't begrudge them of this as he was their enemy not long ago. To his surprise, this distrust never came from Jia. He was always cordial with him.

"Uh, I don't think it is my place to speak, My Lord," Jia replied. He wasn't interested in alienating himself further by choosing a side.

"You are one of my advisors, are you not?" said Cao in a tone that let Xu know he wasn't in the mood for any more bullshit.

With a sigh, Xu pushed himself off the wall he was using to prop himself up. He saluted Cao.

"My apologies; In my humble opinion, we should lend our assistance to Liu Bei."

This earned him sneers from a few of the advisors but Xu pressed on.

"As Fèngxiào and Wénruò have both mentioned, we cannot allow Lu Bu to consolidate power. In fact…my guess is that Chen Gong's first act would be to secure an alliance for Lu Bu to cement his power. I believe we should take steps to prevent that as well."

Cao nodded and Xu saluted again before returning to his previous spot against the wall. Cao considered the arguments he had heard from his advisors as well as the words of his sons.

"Summon the messenger," he said after a long period of silence.

The advisors perked up at this, eager to hear the decision. The messenger arrived shortly after. He looked nervous being around so many Wei generals.

"Tell your master he can expect my aid. I will send out a legion of my forces within two weeks; Xiaopei will be the target."

Cao could hear a few groans from his advisors at this course of action but none dared to complain aloud.

"Only one legion, My Lord? Could you not spare more?"

"You come asking for aid and you have the audacity to complain when it is given?" Cao rebuked as he got to his feet. The messenger shrank back.

"Forgive my foolish tongue. I will tell my lord the news of your generosity at once."

The servant saluted Cao and hastily left to go inform Bei that reinforcement would be on the way within two week's time.

"Since you are only sending a single legion that means you will not be joining the battle yourself?" asked Yu.

"Correct. I see no reason to invest the bulk of our forces for this. Lu Bu hasn't been able to amass a large enough army to be a true threat. This force shall seize Xiaopei to give us a foothold in the Province. Once that is done, we will push on and take Xiapi."

"I also want a smaller force of twenty thousand men to be ready as soon as possible. I believe what Wénhé said was accurate. Chen Gong knows that they cannot hold the region for long as they currently are. He will attempt to seek reinforcements. I want those men to patrol all roads leading out of the Province. We must stop their bid for aid at all costs lest we find ourselves in a troublesome situation. Wénruò, I want you to oversee the patrols. Do not let anyone slip by you."

Xun Yu saluted Cao in acknowledgement of the order given. He would have preferred to be in the battle of Xiaopei but he would not argue with his master's will.

"And who will lead the attack on Xiaopei?" asked Jia.

Cao remained silent for a moment as he thought, his hand stroking his chin as if doing so would strike up an idea.

"Summon Yuánràng," Cao finally replied.

"Yuánràng?" Jia asked with eyes wide in surprise. "But he—are…are you sure?"

"I am. I know my cousin. He will go mad soon if he doesn't get to blow off some steam. I will allow him to pick who he wishes to take with him."

Jia was skeptical about this but he did not speak. He knew that Dun was still in mourning and thought it best for him to tend to his family instead of go off again into battle. His thoughts must have been readable on his face because Cao spoke once more.

"I know what you are thinking. I considered the same. I am not only sending him to blow off steam. I am sending him because I need someone I could trust to complete this task. While Lu Bu is weak, he is by no means harmless. If he decides to take to the battlefield himself, there are few that could compete with him."

Jia nodded conceding his point. He understood his point of view but he still wasn't thrilled about it. He could only hope that nothing would go wrong.

=#=

Zhuyue and the others had arrived in a new town. They were still within the Yang Province and according to Honghui, they would be for some time. Honghui was not your typical merchant. He traveled the country dealing in specialty goods for wealthy nobles. It explained why he was able to afford a carriage and three guards to watch over it.

Speaking of guards, Zhuyue didn't like the look of them. They were burly, dubious looking characters that made Zhuyue anxious. She caught them looking at her when they thought she wasn't paying attention and at times they stared even when she was. It was as if they were waiting for something. Because of this and the fact that Honghui informed them his business wouldn't see them in Xuchang until the Emperor's birthday which was in three months; she thought it would be prudent if they found another means to get to their destination.

Unfortunately for Zhuyue, it didn't look as if that was an option. The wealthiest person in town was the magistrate and she couldn't exactly waltz up to him and ask for a free ride. Dejected, she sat with Madame Xu on the second floor of the town's tea house.

"I don't understand, dear. Why don't you want to travel with Lord Honghui any longer?"

Zhuyue took a sip of her tea. She was appreciative that the warm liquid helped in settling her nauseated stomach.

"My gut tells me that it would be the best course of action," she replied. 'My gut has also been telling me to throw up damn near everything I eat as well' she thought bitterly. She hadn't the foggiest idea what was wrong with her but she was already getting tired of it. Unfortunately, she couldn't see a doctor until she got home since she was flat broke.

"Your gut is telling you right, young lady," said a man at a table not too far from them.

Zhuyue looked to the speaker with a frown. He was a handsome man. His features were masculine albeit a bit soft. Zhuyue couldn't imagine that someone like him worked hard a day in his life. He kept his facial hair so low that you can only see the shadow of a beard which added to his soft features. He was finely dressed but his hair looked as if he had just gotten out of bed. It was also clear that whatever he was drinking, it wasn't tea.

"It is rude to eavesdrop, My Lord," said Zhuyue. She didn't bother to hide her annoyance. She was beyond tired of playing the role of respectful little woman to these stuck up nobles which this man obviously was.

"It is, you are correct and I apologize for that. I just couldn't help but say something," he replied. He didn't seem at all bothered by her tone.

"What did you mean by "my gut was telling me right?"" she questioned.

"I saw your group when you first came into town. I thought nothing of it until I noticed that elderly man that you were traveling with in the apothecary. He bought some very curious herbs. I won't bore you with the details of each item, but let's say that mixed together, they make a powerful drug that can knock someone out for quite a few hours. Doctors usually use it for difficult procedures. After overhearing your conversation, I could hazard a guess what he plans to use that for."

"My Lord, you cannot just assume that he means ill will! He is a merchant. He could simply be procuring those herbs for his customers!" Madame Xu argued.

"That is true," the man replied before taking a sip of his drink. He rubbed the stubble on chin as he thought of the best way to convince them.

"Would you mind answering a question for me? Please do not take offense, but you ladies look…well…a bit down on your luck. How much are you paying the good sir for ferrying you?"

"I don't see how that's any of your bu-" Madame Xu began.

"Nothing," Zhuyue said cutting her off. "He said he was doing this out of kindness."

"Yue!" Madame Xu admonished.

Unlike Zhuyue, she trusted Honghui's intentions. Zhuyue could understand it. Outwardly, he didn't really do anything suspicious. There wasn't truly any reason to not trust him but Zhuyue couldn't shake the doubt she had.

"I figured so," the man replied. "One final question, have you ladies heard of the rumors of unsuspecting female travelers who find themselves in the company of a generous patron, but they never make it to their destination? Their bodies are often found in ditches along side the road, naked with their throats slit."

"You can't be suggesting that Lord Honghui is the person that has done those horrible things," Madame Xu argued.

"I have no proof that he has," the man responded. "But you also have no proof that he hasn't."

"And why should we trust anything you say?" asked Zhuyue. "As far as I'm concerned, you are some dubious man who eavesdropped on a couple of ladies having tea and spun a story we cannot possibly verify."

"You shouldn't trust me. You shouldn't trust anyone but yourself," he replied as he lifted his cup towards them before taking a drink.

"You've asked us questions now I wish to ask you some of my own," said Zhuyue.

The man smiled and gave a slight nod in agreement.

"Who are you?"

"My name is not quite so grand. There aren't many outside of nobility or the military that know me. None the less, I am Xun You, styled Gōngdá."

Xun. She knew that name. They were quite the influential family. She could remember her father sucking up to them on many occasions as did most lower nobles.

"And what is someone of your stature doing in a town like this?"

"Just passing through. The magistrate is a friend of the family. I came to pay my respects. I don't intend to stay long. I have business elsewhere."

"Exactly where is elsewhere?"

"I don't believe that is any business of yours."

"Neither was our conversation but you saw fit to insert yourself in it."

"Y-Yue!" Madame Xu exclaimed in shock.

"You don't seem to know how to show deference to someone of a higher class than you," Xun You said with a bemused smile.

"I know how, I just choose not to. I am a firm believer that respect should be earned, not given just because of the family you were born into."

Madame Xu's mouth dropped open in shock. She couldn't believe that Zhuyue was speaking to him in such a way. To her surprise, the man chuckled at this. He wasn't offended by this. Unlike most members of his family, he wasn't exactly big on titles and such. Her disregard did not anger him. In fact it amused him.

"Fair enough. I still see no purpose in saying where I'm going. I have no idea what good that information would do to you."

"I know your name. You come from a family of wealth. If you plan on leaving tomorrow, it will be in a carriage. If that carriage is headed even remotely close to our destination, I would rather travel with you than with Honghui," she replied.

"And why would you trust a random man you met in a tea house over someone you had been traveling with?" You asked.

"You took the time to warn us about the possible danger when you didn't have to. Honghui is also of nobility. He is lower than you but he is nobility none the less. I'm sure you know this."

"I do," he confirmed.

"Yet you still warned us about him. There are few of noble blood that would do such a thing. Honor and nobility don't exactly go hand and hand."

"You are very shrewd," You replied with a smile.

"You are avoiding the question," Zhuyue retorted.

"How do you know that I didn't just warn you to lure you into my clutches? For all you know the generous patron could be me."

"Please. You are a handsome man. I'm sure that there are many women who offer themselves to you. You don't need to drug anyone to sleep with them."

"You think I'm handsome? How kind of you to say," You replied.

"Don't let it go to your head. Will you tell me your destination?"

You let out a low hmm as he mulled over his decision. Finally making up his mind he responded.

"I am going to Xuchang."

Zhuyue eyed him suspiciously. This was a little too good to be true.

"Why?" she asked.

"I must tell you the nature of my business as well?"

"I cannot make you do anything you do not wish to do but if it isn't anything untoward, I do not see why you wish to keep it a secret."

You smiled at Zhuyue once more. He was usually a private man and liked to keep his affairs to himself. Still he had already gotten this far. What harm could it be to tell her why he was going to Xuchang? He also believed in fair exchange. Since he told her something personal, perhaps she would answer a personal question for him. Speaking to her, he did not believe for one moment that this woman was a mere peasant. She had entirely much too sharp a tongue and an abundance of wit.

"A member of my family serves Lord Cao Cao. I was recommended to his service by him. I am heading to Xuchang to begin my appointment."

A family member of his serves Cao Cao? He had to be a general if he belonged to the Xun family line. She sorted through the possibilities to corroborate his story. After a few seconds the answer became obvious. How did she not make the connection before?

"Xun Yu," she said aloud though mostly to herself.

It was You's turn to stare at her with suspicion. How did she know Xun Yu?

"I have been forthcoming with all of my answers now I ask that you do the same. You are obviously not a peasant and you know the name Xun Yu…Exactly who are you?"

Zhuyue hesitated. There was no true way of knowing that everything You had said was the truth. At this point, she would have to go on faith that he was the honorable man he portrayed himself as. Taking a deep breath and hoping for the best, she answered.

"I am Lady Yue, wife of Xiahou Dun. I also serve in Lord Cao Cao's army."

You's eyes widened in surprise. He knew that she wasn't a peasant but he hadn't expected that.

"My Lady! Forgive my insolence thus far," he said quickly as he got out of his seat and saluted her.

"You are from the noble Xun family, why do you salute me? They hold more rank than the Xiahou family."

"That may be true, but your husband holds a higher office in Lord Cao Cao's army. I must give you the respect that is due," he replied seriously.

"Well stop it. It isn't necessary. We aren't on the battlefield. We are in a tea house speaking as friends."

You nodded and sat back down. Madame Xu looked utterly shocked. She also knew that Zhuyue had been hiding something but she didn't expect it to be quite so big.

"Yue,...no, Lady Yue, why didn't you tell me who you were before?"

The woman looked a bit dazed at the revelation and just a little hurt. Zhuyue felt terrible about keeping the secret from her but she truly didn't want the woman to treat her any differently just because of her status.

"I didn't intend on hiding it from you. I just didn't want to bring undue attention to myself. When you found me, I was running from enemy forces. I didn't know who to trust and thought it better to hide who I was. Forgive me."

Madame Xu nodded. She could understand that. When she found Zhuyue, she had that terrible wound at her side. So many things that seemed off about Zhuyue began to click into place now that she knew who she truly was.

"Gōngdá," Zhuyue began turning her attention back to You. "Will you take us with you to Xuchang?"

"Of course, I would be honored to. Also, I suggest you allow me to speak with Honghui regarding your new travel arrangements. If I use my family name, he won't question you changing your plans. I fear that if you attempt to do so on your own, he might react…badly."

Zhuyue nodded. This was a concern she had as well. If he was the predator You made him out to be then she imagined that he won't be happy to see prey slip through his fingers. Now that she thought about it, it made sense that those guards kept their eyes on her. They probably knew of their master's perverse habits…they probably indulged in it as well. The thought made Zhuyue nauseous. It could have also been this perpetual sickness she had been having as of late but she was sure their depraved ways had something to do with it as well.

"Well then, we leave tomorrow morning. Please, allow me to pay for lodging for you. It seems as if you hadn't had a good night's rest in some time."

He was right, they hadn't. Still she was inclined to reject his offer. They were already getting a free ride from him. She couldn't take more from him. Her body seemed to disagree with her on this point however. At hearing the word rest, her body reacted. It became impossibly heavy as if screaming that it needed to be put down into a bed.

"Thank you for your generosity, but I insist that I repay you for all expenses when we reach Xuchang."

You chuckled at this.

"As you wish, My Lady."

Zhuyue let out a yawn. She suddenly couldn't wait to get into bed and get a good night's sleep for once. There was still a long road ahead but she was closer to getting back to her family. She just prayed to the heavens that they were alright.

=#=

Chen Gong rolled up the scroll he had been reading. He tapped it against his cheek as he considered what he had just read. Yuan Shu had somehow gotten his hands on the imperial seal and has declared himself emperor. It was a tricky move on his part. By declaring himself emperor, he was effectively challenging the power of Emperor Xian. There were many who still believed and followed Xian and would consider this to be an act of rebellion. Like Dong Zhou, he would face being hunted by like minded individuals who wish to eliminate such an affront to heaven's appointed ruler.

On the other side, there were many who thought as Shu did. The emperor has proven long ago that he was weak and unfit to rule. First he was a puppet in the hands of Dong Zhou and now he maintains that role under Cao Cao. There was no illusion that Cao "rescued" the emperor simply to use his name and influence to further his goals. Though no one acts outwardly against Cao Cao yet, there are many who conspire against him behind closed doors. They believed that Cao Cao was growing too powerful too quickly. With Yuan Shu holding the imperial seal, they could claim to follow a new heaven's chosen and use that as an excuse to diminish Cao's powerbase.

There was a line being drawn between the two sides and if Lu Bu hoped to etch his name in the annals of history, he had to choose which side he would be on. Gong considered his options. In truth, he didn't care about the emperor or his power. The man was weak and it was because of that weakness that the land was consumed by chaos. What Gong did care about is which side would be most beneficial to him and his master in the long run. Which side would help him get Lu Bu closer to taking control of this war torn land?

Gong almost immediately dismissed Cao Cao's side. Cao was a devious man. He couldn't be trusted. He would welcome Lu Bu with open arms only to stab him in the back as soon as he embraced him. He would see Lu Bu as a threat to his own ambition and would want to destroy him as soon as possible. By process of elimination, that left Yuan Shu. Like Cao, Shu was a backstabbing bastard that could not be trusted. Unlike Cao, he could be controlled. Oh sure, he would resist at first and he would try to rebel against Lu Bu but Shu was a painfully stupid man. Gong was confident that he could manipulate him to fall in line and if that failed, they would crush him like the insect he was.

So Shu it was. Now the question was how to secure an alliance with him? Gong tapped the scroll against his cheek once more. What could they offer him? Gold and silver? No, they didn't exactly have a surplus of it and Yuan Shu was already wealthy. That wouldn't secure his loyalty. Hmph, if only they still had Diaochan. She would have made a fine prize. Then again, she would probably betray Lu Bu the moment she was out of his clutches after the way he's treated her. Wait! That was it. He was on the right track. A marriage alliance would be the perfect way to secure Yuan Shu's loyalty but it would have to be someone Lu Bu could trust. Who better than Lu Bu's own spawn? Lingqi would make the perfect bride for one of Shu's idiot sons or Shu himself, Gong honestly didn't care. What he did care about is the fact that Bu's loyal little daughter would do everything to ensure that Shu and his sons always saw her father in a favorable light.

Gong smiled, proud of his cleverness. The pieces of the plan were set. It was time to put them into play.

=#=

"No."

"But Master Lu Bu, please reconsi-"

"No!" Bu roared. "Yuan Shu and his pathetic sons are not worthy of my daughter's hand! They are weaklings and cowards, unworthy of her.

Gong sighed. When he first came to Lu Bu with this idea three days ago, he had been confident that he could get the man to see his point of view, but in a surprise turn of events, Lu Bu was apparently very selective of who could marry his daughter. This was surprising for Gong as Bu hadn't seemed to care much about her well being any other time. He needed to approach this differently.

"You are right. Shu and his sons aren't worthy of Lady Lingqi's hand. It actually pains me to even suggest such a thing but for the good of your ambition, I must. Lingqi's marriage to Shu or his sons would put her in a unique position to assist you. From behind the scenes, she could manipulate them to showing you great favor. Imagine what we could do with that? Funds or men for our army? Done! Support against our enemies? Easy! All of this would be within Lingqi's power."

"Hmph," was Bu's only reply.

It wasn't a no. That means he was listening. Time to bring this home.

"Do you know that your daughter trains with Wényuǎn daily in hopes of being able to serve as a soldier in your army?"

Bu didn't respond but from the look on Bu's face, Gong assumed that he knew. He continued.

"She so desperately wants to be useful to you. Here we have the perfect chance for her to fulfill her dreams. Would you truly deny her this chance?"

Bu let out a frustrated growl. He knew Gong was right but he didn't like it. He detested the idea of being related by marriage to the likes of Shu or one of his idiot sons. Still, Bu knew he needed a change. He needed to establish his power or he would be doomed to roam the land forever serving under other lords. To have his ambition realized, sacrificing his daughter to marry such swine was a small price to pay.

"His son," Bu said.

Gong tilted his head in confusion. "His son?" he repeated.

"If she is to marry anyone, make it one of his sons. Shu is much too old and set in his ways. She would have a better chance at manipulating one of his sons."

"Yes! Of course! My thoughts exactly!" Gong was elated that Bu had finally come around to his thinking.

"I'll leave you to handle the details," Bu grumbled as he stood and headed towards the exit.

"Wait, where are you going?" Gong asked as he rose to his feet.

"To speak with Yan," Bu replied.

Gong made a face as he thought of the ensuing conversation. He was content to let Bu handle that. That woman coddled her child. She was sure to not take this proposal well. Gong hoped that Yan wouldn't be influential enough to sway him from their set path. He dismissed the thought. If Gong had previously thought that Bu had little care for his daughter, the same was even more so true for his wife. He had never seen a married couple act so distant from each other. Bu rarely shared his bed with her if at all. No, they were safe. Bu would tell her and she would have no choice but to abide by his decision.

=#=

"My Lord Husband, please reconsider!" Yan pleaded.

"There is nothing to reconsider," Bu replied.

His arms were crossed in front of his chest and his face was fixed in a frown. As expected, Yan did not react to the news well.

"But she isn't ready for marr-,"

"She is old enough to marry and this move will help strengthen my power base."

"But the rumors I hear about Yuan Shu and his sons. I hear such terrible things. Can't she be married to someone more worthy?"

"This is not up for discussion. I am merely telling you so you can teach Lingqi what would be expected of her as a wife. She has to keep her husband pleased if we hope to get support from Yuan Shu in the future."

Yan's eyes were welling up with tears. She knew that there would be a time in which she would have to let her daughter go; to grow up and be her own woman with a family and children. Even though she knew this, it was hard to let go, especially if the person she had to let her go to was such scum. Desperate she threw herself to her husband. Her tears now streaming down her cheeks.

"Please, Lord Husband! Damn your ambitions! Don't do this!"

Hearing her words threw Bu into a rage. How dare she diminish his ambitions? Did this woman forget her place? Bu shoved her away from him. Yan, fell backward to the floor. To her luck, Bu restrained himself from doing further damage. Bu sneered at her.

"Get her ready Yan. I won't accept your defiance any longer."

Bu stormed out of the room slamming the door shut behind him. He didn't have to speak with Yan anymore to know that his will would be carried out. She was aware that she had pushed her luck with him just a hair too far.

Yan waited until she no longer heard his footsteps to let the bottled up sorrow flow freely. Yan wailed loudly at her husbands cruelty, at the prospect of losing her daughter, at the life she had been stuck in. Everything rushed out of her like a roaring wave

Yan didn't know how long she had been crying. She knew that her eyes felt sore and her head was pounding. She wanted to stop crying but it was the only thing she could think to do. She heard movement at her door. Fearing her husband's return, she wiped her face quickly with the back of her sleeve and tried to stifle her sobs.

Gao Shun entered the room. He had been listening to Yan cry since Bu left. He didn't dare to enter at first but with each sob, his chest tightened until he could no longer bear it. He saw her sitting there, on the floor where Bu had tossed her. Never had he seen her look so pitiful. He knelt down to her and reached for her but pulled his hand back.

"My Lady, are you okay?"

Yan looked up to Shun. Such a sweet man he was to check on her. She felt terrible that he had to see her in this state. Yan wiped her face once more and pushed the strands of hair that had fallen in front of her face behind her ear.

"Shun…I must look terrible don't I?" She said followed by a self depreciating laugh.

"You could never look terrible, Lady Yan."

"You don't have to lie to me Shun. I feel awful so I am sure my looks reflect that."

"I do not doubt that you feel awful, My Lady, but I do not lie. You could never look terrible to me. You are and always will be beautiful."

Yan's eyes widened in surprise at the earnest compliment. The aching in her heart subsided just slightly. In it's place was the warm feeling she always felt when by the man she admired so.

"Shun…." She could find no other words to say so shocked by his admission.

"I-I…my apologies, My Lady, I forgot myself. Please, forget what I said. I did not mean to overstep my bounds."

"No!" Yan cried out. She clasped his hands in hers. "I will not forget it. Tell me Shun, please. Do you feel for me as I feel for you?"

"How you feel for me?" He queried.

"Have you truly not noticed? Have you truly not seen the looks I cast at you when no one else is looking? How just a glance from you could render me speechless? I love you Shun. I have loved you since you risked your life to save mine and that of Lingqi's."

"My Lady, you cannot say these things. You are married. You are married to the man I have sworn my life to! I should not hear such confessions."

"He doesn't care for me, Shun. I cannot even remember the last time he warmed my bed. We are more like strangers than husband and wife. Even if he were to declare his love for me once more, I could not return it. Another man has taken his place in my heart."

Yan took one of the hand that she was holding and pressed it against her chest over her heart. Shun could feel it beating quickly like a drum signaling the march of war. The words she spoke were true. He would never have in his wildest dreams thought she felt that way about him.

"Please tell me," she began as she stared into his eyes. Her eyes watered once more but this time it was not out of sadness for her daughter. It was fear of being rejected after laying her heart before the man she loved.

"Please tell me how you feel," she concluded, her words spoken barely above a whisper.

Shun prided himself on being a man of action rather than words. So to tell her how he felt, he decided to take action. Shun pressed his lips against hers. She was stiff for a few seconds as the shock settled in. Soon he found her mouth moving with his. Her hands left his and she wrapped her arms around his neck. He in turned wrapped his arms around her waist. He licked at her lips tasting the saltiness of the tears that she had cried earlier. She parted her lips slightly allowing him access and he readily took it.

Shun pulled back from her and she looked surprised and a bit sadden that it had ended so quickly. He got back to his feet and helped her to hers. Deciding to be brave, she led him over to her bed. Shun hesitated for a moment before throwing caution to the wind and joining her. Once again, they kissed; slowly and sweetly. Their kissing soon became coupled with soft caresses. Shun took his time to slowly undress Yan, stroking, licking and kissing each piece of flesh that was revealed whenever he removed another article of clothing. Growing tired of the foreplay and eager to feel himself inside of her, their gentle touches soon became passionate love making. To Shun, nothing was sweeter than the sounds of Yan's moans as he made love to her. When it was all over and they lay together, basking in the afterglow; a tangle of limbs and sweat Yan felt the happiest she had been in a long time.

=#=

Bu stalked through the halls of Xiapi palace. He was in a bad mood after his encounter with Yan. To blow off steam, he looked for Zhang Liao to spar with but his general had gone into the city on a personal errand and wouldn't be back any time soon. This just made his mood sour even further.

He tried to release some of anger against the training dummies but it did little to help him. Bu preferred an opponent that could move and think. Frustrated, Bu resigned himself to walking off his anger. His aimless wondering had led him to a part of the palace he rarely visited. It was the area in which Liu Bei use to reside, where his family still resided.

Knowing there wouldn't be anything of interest in this area, Bu turned to leave when the sound of a beautiful voice drifted to his ears. As if being lulled by sinful song of a siren, his feet started moving on their own accord towards its source. He soon found himself in front of the door he knew to be of Liu Bei's wife. Bu threw the door open, not bothering to knock. The woman inside jumped by the sudden intrusion and hurried to cover herself up. She had been breastfeeding her child just before Bu entered. The child unhappy about the interruption in his meal began to cry.

"M-my Lord, she stammered as she rocked Tan in an effect to calm him down."

"Feed him," Bu said as he stared at Gan in a way that made her feel extremely uncomfortable.

"W-what?" she asked.

"Feed him so he'll shut up," Bu clarified.

Gan hesitated before turning her back to Bu and opening her robe to feed Tan. Happily, the baby suckled on his mother's breast once more. Bu didn't move from his spot at the door but she could feel his eyes on her.

"I-Is there something you n-need?" Gan asked.

This man was such an imposing figure. She could barely summon the strength to speak to him. She wished her husband were here.

"You have a beautiful voice," Bu replied. She heard him shuffling behind her and then the door close. Her heart was thundering against her chest. 'Please tell me he left, please tell me he left' she begged the heavens. She looked over her shoulder and her heart sank upon seeing that Bu had taken a seat inside of her room not far from her.

"T-thank you," Gan replied. She felt like crying. This man scared her so much.

Bu remained silent as Tan finished his meal. She covered herself back up and burped the baby. Tan happy and full quickly fell, asleep in his mother's arms. She laid her son down for his nap and summoned her strength to face Bu once more. She turned to see his eyes staring intently at her. She tried to avoid meeting his eyes but she was draw to it much like a moth to a flame.

"Sing again," Bu commanded once her eyes met his.

Gan nodded and tried to calm herself just enough to sing. She wasn't sure what he wanted to hear to so she just sang the same song she always sung to Tan when she wanted him to sleep. The song was actually an ode to Tan's father. It gave voice to the pain Gan held within on not being able to spend time with Bei since he took control of Yu Province.

My love, you've been long in my heart.

Although I could not go to you, couldn't you send

word to me?

Oh my love, you're in my loving thoughts.

Although I cannot go to you, couldn't you come

here to me?

I keep pacing and climbing the lookout tower of the

City wall.

One day without seeing you is like three

Months to me.

Once her song finished an awkward silence hung in the air. Bu stood and walked towards her. For each step he took forward, Gan took one back until her legs were against the frame of her bed. She caught herself from falling onto it and stared at Bu, terrified.

Bu lifted a hand and ran it through her hair. She cursed herself for not tying it up today as she usually did. Gan pulled away from him.

"Please, My Lord…"

Bu stared at her. There was something predatory in his glance that frightened her.

"Such a pitiful song. Sounds like you have been lonely. I know why you've been lonely. Do you know why? I'll tell you. Your husband had taken my woman away from me."

Gan did not know what he was talking about and the confusion on her face reflected that much.

"Her name is Diaochan. She is a beautiful woman. More beautiful than the most beautiful flower…and she tastes sweeter than the sweetest honey…," Bu began as he took hold of her hair once more.

"Your husband saw her and fell in love with her at first sight. All the nights you spent alone, he spent them with her; with my Diaochan."

Gan's mouth dropped open. This was the first she heard of anything like this. Bei had told her that it was work that kept him away. No, obviously this man is lying. She wouldn't believe her husband to be such a dishonest man. Gan pulled away from him once more.

"My Lord please, the baby needs to sleep. You might wake him up."

"I figure," Bu continued completely ignoring Gan's request. "That if Liu Bei gets to have my woman, I should get to have his."

Gan was on full alert now. The wolf had made his intentions clear. He planned on devouring her. She tried to run past him but Bu easily blocked her. He shoved her onto the bed and she screamed. He laid on top of her, pinning her to the bed and put his large calloused hand over her mouth to stifle her cries.

"Shut up. Don't want to wake the baby, do you?"

Gan continued to scream under his hand and she tried her best to wiggle from beneath him but his large frame blocked all movement. Tears streamed from her eyes into her ears. Her muffled voice pleaded with him to let her go.

Her cries fell on deaf ears as Bu lifted himself up just enough to tear her robe open. He looked over her newly revealed nude body for a few moments. She wasn't Diaochan, but she would do. Bei would learn what it felt like to have another man take what was his.