"Gan Ning? What time is it?"
Lu Xun was almost exhausted from his efforts, and sweat dampened his tired face. He wished to sleep, but sleep would not come. The minute he would get comfortable, his temper would snap, the burning desire in him taking over again. And what was worse? He could see the light brown fur grow from his scratches, as if the transformation had already begun. Not something to look forward to...
"Hmmm... I dunno. There aren't any windows..." Gan Ning's concern never faded, and he looked towards him, trying to get feeling in his legs again as he went to stand up. "I was actually hoping that they would have come down here by now... you thirsty or anything?"
"Some water would be nice..."
The pirate smiled, grabbing the keg that rested next to him and went to help Lu Xun. He kept a safe distance, though he knew it hurt Lu Xun. Some water didn't make it to Lu Xun's lips as he closed them, and Gan Ning noticed the tears forming again. "What's wrong, kid?"
"You need to leave..." Lu Xun half-sobbed. "I-I'm changing, and I don't want you to see me... as a beast..."
"Nighttime already?" Gan Ning nearly dropped the keg, feeling his own heart race at the words. "You want me to get Zhou Yu? Or someone?"
"There's no need Gan Ning; I'm already here..."
Hearing the restraint in Zhou Yu's voice, Gan Ning turned to see the sight of what looked to be a fuzzy Zhou Yu. He was only half transformed, but it was still a sight to see the fangs and claws already grown to their fullest. "I'll call you back when it's safe..."
The pirate did not argue, leaving quickly, and Zhou Yu sighed, "How is it going Lu Xun? Do you hurt at all?"
"Y-yes... a little... Zhou Y-Yu..."
"Are you fighting it at all?" Zhou Yu asked, walking down the steps as his clothes began to rip apart. It still hurt him to transform, but it was not as painful as his first time. Hearing Lu Xun's strangled cry, he shook his head, "Don't fight it; let it happen. It won't hurt so much..."
"The chains... are tightening," Lu Xun whimpered.
He could see his pain, and Zhou Yu tried to soothe it, going to the bonds and trying to loosen them. No, he couldn't let him free, not yet... Lu Xun was the test subject, to make sure this cure worked. "Any better?"
"A little bit, yes," the smaller officer replied, but he still whimpered. "Why can't I just be freed?"
"Because, we don't want you to hurt Gan Ning when he cures you..." Zhou Yu answered, allowing his own transformation to complete itself. He saw Lu Xun's eyes widen, so he spoke, using his mind voice rather than the gruff animalistic one the transformation graced him with, 'This should be your first and last time to ever experience this...'
The clawed fingers gripped the chains, and Lu Xun gave another cry, revealing his fangs as the transformation was just about done. Zhou Yu had never seen it happen to another before, and he surely did not wish to see it again. 'Almost there... soon the pain will stop.'
"Do you really think... it will work?"
'It's our only chance... so I hope so...' Lu Xun's cries began to lessen, and the last of his clothing was torn away, revealing his light brown fur coat. His new tail thrashed about wildly, and tears were streaming down his half human, half canine face. 'There...'
Zhou Yu came closer, stroking his head gently, 'Shh... no need to cry now. It's okay...'
Lu Xun's golden eyes only seemed feral now, as he gave a snarl from his throat. He couldn't even formulate words now, as he remained silent, turning his head away.
'No; try and speak to me. You don't have to use your throat yet; just form the words in your mind.'
Even that seemed stress, and Lu Xun gave a low whimper, turning away from Zhou Yu, as if to FEAR him. 'Don't...'
'Don't what? I'm not going to do anything to hurt you...' Zhou Yu tried to assure him, but as he got closer again, Lu Xun gave a loud, almost annoying yelp that he heard before. 'Please, I know this is very new to you, but please try to calm down...'
'CALM DOWN?! Zhou Yu, don't you understand? You infected me, just as Xiahou Dun did to all the others. Can't you guess what that must mean?!'
Now it dawned on Zhou Yu, and he gave a hearty laugh, something that sounded like a mixture between a growl and a laugh when it came from his throat. 'You silly boy... I see now. Well, if you wish, I will keep my distance from you until we cure you. Would you feel safer then?'
'Yes...' Lu Xun looked up, and even in this form, his golden eyes shone out. 'I'm sorry, but I don't want anything to happen that both of us would regret...'
'I can understand...'
'Shouldn't you call Gan Ning back?'
Licking his lips, Zhou Yu nodded, looking up towards the stairs and giving a growl. Lu Xun was amazed with how different his voice was, and he wondered how his had changed too. "Gan Ning, it is time to test your theory."
The pirate popped his head back in, unable to control his cry, "GOOD LORD!"
Now Lu Xun growled, hissing, "Don't look at me!"
Zhou Yu's eyes narrowed, "You are NOT helping, Gan Ning!"
The pirate looked at the beast his love had become, and he sighed, making his way down the small flight of stairs. "I'm sorry... Lu Xun, I just... damn, are you alright?"
"I... just go! This was a bad idea; you can't even LOOK at me!"
"No... now stop moping... just think, Zhou Yu had to do this alone!" Gan Ning said with a light smile, as he now stood in front of him. Lu Xun slowly looked up at him, his golden eyes dancing as tears tried to flow from them again. The pirate took in a breath, to touch him, but Lu Xun withdrew from the touch, giving a sudden jerk on the chains. "I'm not leaving until you're cured... you got that?"
Seeing the hesitance, Zhou Yu asked, "Is it me you wish to go, Lu Xun?"
'It... would be nice...' Lu Xun answered, his gaze falling. 'I just... can't RELAX!'
Nodding, Zhou Yu made to exit, wondering if it were safe, considering the fact that anyone could see him and panic would ensue. But nevertheless, he granted Lu Xun his wishes, closing the door behind him when he left.
He wished he could leave them both in complete privacy, but it was not possible to do so. A part of him WANTED to stay, and another told him that it would be dangerous for Gan Ning to be without aid nearby.
So he sat outside, thankful that no one else was around to see him. He would simply wait until it was safe...
Gan Ning spoke softly, reaching out to stroke Lu Xun's face, "Better?"
He dodged the teeth, and he sighed, as Lu Xun replied, "Just... get it over with..."
"How am I supposed to embrace you if you keep trying to bite me?" Gan Ning asked, seeing this slight rise of panic in Lu Xun's eyes as he dodged the teeth again. He could hear a distant howling, but he could not hear its words. Xiahou Dun was calling to the young werefox... but he did not know.
"I-I don't want this! I'm scared..." Lu Xun whimpered, trying to ignore the calling. "Go away!"
"I don't know WHAT that howling is about, but don't you listen to it! Just try and calm down so I can cure you!" Gan Ning said, his voice heavy with worry.
'Lu Xun, where are you?' Xiahou Dun's voice flooded Lu Xun's mind, despite how hard he tried to block it out. All he wanted was to see Gan Ning in front of him... and to be cured. 'Lu Xun?'
'LEAVE ME ALONE! GET OUT OF MY HEAD!'
"Lu Xun?" Gan Ning grabbed him, cautious of the fangs as he tried to calm Lu Xun down enough to where he could embrace him. "You okay, kid?"
"H-he's CALLING me! Don't let him come for me, Gan Ning!" Lu Xun whimpered, the tears rolling down his cheeks.
One could only imagine the pirate's concern, as he never been like this before, over anyone. He tried to hug him, but it seemed useless, as Lu Xun began to struggle, kicking and thrashing his dangerous claws about.
Zhou Yu heard the howling as well, and also the beginning of the thrashing below. Despite his promise to stay out, he ran in, snarling, "LU XUN! CALM DOWN! The howling means NOTHING!"
It already seemed to late, as one of the bonds broke, releasing one claw, filled hand. Zhou Yu quickly grabbed Gan Ning, pulling him away from the insane beast as the second one was freed shortly after. Insanity brimmed the yellow eyes, but its source was fear, as Lu Xun fled from Zhou Yu, now trying to find an escape. "GO AWAY!"
"Do you want to go to him?! He will surely find you if you leave!"
Gan Ning could only stare in disbelief as the frightened werefox drew himself in the corner, grasping his head and trembling uncontrollably. Zhou Yu sighed, daring to inch towards Lu Xun, "Lu Xun, soon the distraction will start, and he'll leave you alone. I promise..."
"H-He's calling me, Zhou Yu, telling me things," the officer whimpered, closing his golden eyes. "He's not going to stop until he sees me like this..."
"Then I'll kill him myself for doing this to you..." Gan Ning hissed, but his fury left when he saw Lu Xun like this.
Zhou Yu spoke softly, "I know, but you must calm yourself. I cannot and will not leave you to him."
"I can't control myself anymore... I just... can't..." Lu Xun said, "And... I'm sorry."
Before either Zhou Yu or Gan Ning could grab him, the frightened werefox dashed up the stairs, crashing right through the closed door, making his grand escape. Zhou Yu was the first after him, but Gan Ning was not too far behind, fearing for the life of his love, as well as the innocents that were in the castle.
Zhou Yu's growl was immediate, "Stay behind, Gan Ning! Go tell the others what has happened. I'll make sure he doesn't hurt anyone... including you..."
"You got it..." Gan Ning reluctantly cut off the chase, taking a turn at the next corridor and now searching for inhabitants and guests, to warn them. The last thing they needed was Lu Xun's guilt trip if he would have hurt anyone.
~*~*~*~
Lu Xun, of course, had no intention of hurting anyone. What he WAS determined to do was to get that mocking, subtle voice out of the air, and out of his mind. He whimpered, 'I'm coming! Just shut up already!'
He hated to find himself on all four, running like an animal, but he could care less now. That was exactly what he was, nothing but a lowly animal, to be treated just as one's bitch. He knew this, but still, he searched for the one eyed werefox.
'You won't have to search long, my pretty little Lu Xun...'
Finally, Lu Xun found the voice, and he fell to the ground, out of breath as he looked up at the sight of the one-eyed werefox, seeing nothing but his single eye as he was disguised in pure darkness. He panted, feeling an unforgiving fear rise from within him. 'You...'
Xiahou Dun looked him up and down, appearing from the shadows to circle about him, 'Beautiful, simply beautiful. I do not know in which form I prefer you...'
'Do... you say this to all the new ones?' Lu Xun trembled uncontrollably, backing away slightly.
'What do you think?'
'Yes...' The young Wu strategist answered, backing away another step as the larger werefox stepped forward. 'J-just stop it! I know you don't care anything about me, and I do not need your false compliments...'
That only made Xiahou Dun laugh, but it died away when they heard another werefox running through the grass. 'Zhou Yu, you're late...'
Leaping between the two, the elder of the Wu strategists snarled, his chocolate brown eyes glimmering with anger, 'I don't care; I owe you no allegiance! Leave him alone!'
'And why should I? Jealous that I won't give you enough attention tonight?'
Zhou Yu's eyes narrowed, and he growled, 'You know better...'
Lu Xun hid behind Zhou Yu, still trembling as Xiahou Dun gave a deathly snarl, 'You're wearing on my nerves...'
'I don't care! I will not allow you to harm him as you have the others!'
'Stand down, Zhou Yu... or I'll break your neck this time...'
Zhou Yu sneered, 'I dare you...'
Fearing a fight, Lu Xun backed away, only to bump into someone. He turned, as Zhang He gave a laugh from deep within his throat. 'Xiahou Dun, it's not good in reacting to threats... surely you know better then to let whatever he says get to you.'
The one-eyed general gave a look, 'What are you doing here, Zhang He?'
He only gave a smile in return, as he went to lie on his back, rolling and revealing his belly in a famous gesture of surrender. 'I'm lonely, sir... and I'm hurt to see you'd rather play with this little runt and not me. Truly you find ME to be more beautiful, do you not?'
Lu Xun gave a gasp, his golden eyes wide in disbelief, and Zhou Yu growled, in order not to arouse suspicion, 'What about Sima Yi? You dare to betray one who loves you so?!'
'Well, he's not here, now is he?' Zhang He gave a rather sickly smile, rolling a bit to get closer to the curious Xiahou Dun. 'What he doesn't know... won't hurt him.'
Zhou Yu sneered, 'You disgust me...'
However, Xiahou Dun only laughed, as if to welcome the invitation. 'You are rather tempting, Zhang He, I'll admit to that...'
'Rather tempting? Oh, that hurts, sir! Surely I am more than just that, hm?' Zhang He's voice was almost a purr, and he lowered it to a husky, seductive tone, 'I have far more experience than these puppies. Surely that has a certain appeal?'
Zhou Yu kept his disgusted image up, though it was hard for Lu Xun to do the same, as he crawled to Zhou Yu, for comfort. Zhou Yu nuzzled him, 'It's okay... just try to ignore them...'
'It's hard, Zhou Yu...'
'I know it is, but do your best...' Zhou Yu gave him a smile, to calm him down, and he nudged him along, hoping that Xiahou Dun would take the bait and not notice their absence.
The one-eyed werefox seemed to be quite distracted, as Zhang He rolled onto his feet, walking closer to his superior with that same seductive smile on his face, 'Your silence disturbs me, sir.'
'Your behavior makes me suspicious...'
'Suspicious sir? Why would it?' Zhang He asked, drawing close enough to rub his face against that of Xiahou Dun, 'I do not like thinking I am losing your favor, or that ANYONE could be more beautiful than I...'
Now that seemed to ease any and all hesitation Xiahou Dun had, as he took his place on top of the sleek black werefox. 'No... I'll admit that you are, by far, the finest one among us...'
He was shocked when the swift Zhang He slipped away, taking him further by surprise when he pinned him to the ground, 'You move too fast, sir, and it leaves you unsatisfied. Allow me to pleasure you...'
'Pleasure me?' Xiahou Dun's smile was frightening, turning his full attention to Zhang He now. 'I would like that...'
Leaning down to kiss him, the black werefox only chuckled, 'I thought you might...'
~*~*~*~
"What do you mean he got away?" Sun Ce asked, trying his hardest to keep his voice from rising. He already knew how hurt Gan Ning was, and he did not wish to cause anymore damage there. "Well, you shouldn't worry about him... Zhou Yu's with him, and Zhang He's probably started the distraction."
"I know, but he was so scared and so... changed. Not to mention that NOW we don't know if the cure will work or not!" Gan Ning sighed.
Zhuge Liang, who had been making preparations for the traps, also joined in with consoling the pirate, not once turning away from his work. "It was his first night, so I presume that it could not be helped. Either way, we might have to make another cage for him as well."
"I just hope that Zhou Yu can convince the others to actually trust us enough to enter them," Ma Chao said, leaning against a tree.
"If they acted anything like Lu Xun did, then there might be a problem..." Sun Ce said, shaking his head. "How long will it take to get another cage prepared?"
"Not too long, if we hurry." Zhuge Liang replied, turning to Ma Chao. "I need more wood."
"Yes sir," the Shu officer replied, leaving to obtain some. Now it was just the three of them, and Sun Ce had an odd feeling growl from within his gut. He hated this silence... a few minutes ago they heard howling, but it had stopped so suddenly that it worried even Sun Ce.
"Do you think Zhang He will be okay?" Sun Ce asked, looking towards the light orange moon. "It seems a bit dangerous..."
"He had better be, or Sima Yi is sure to have some sort of fit and mental breakdown," Zhuge Liang answered, little or no concern in his calm voice.
He could tell he was either uncaring or focused on getting whomever he liked back. Not that Sun Ce blamed him, as Ma Chao returned with a stack of wood in his arms. "Good... this will not take long."
Gan Ning brought up the conversation that everyone wanted to, but did not dare to, "Well, we know I want Lu Xun back, and that Sima Yi wants Zhang He, so it only seems fair for the rest of you to have to spill."
That seemed to stop Zhuge Liang from his work, and he grabbed Ma Chao before he could cause any damage to the pirate. "We were keeping them in separate cages for a reason, I believe..."
"Look, it isn't fair for only some of our weaknesses to be apparent. If everyone tells everyone else, we can agree to keep it to ourselves for whenever we start fighting again. Or I can just guess until you get violently red. Take your pick."
"If it'll shut the pirate up... Zhao Yun." Ma Chao was the first to confess, sneering before turning back to work. He didn't want anyone to see his blush at all...
"Then that leaves you with Jiang Wei, right Zhuge Liang?"
With a spat, Zhuge Liang nodded, knowing better then to deny it. "Look at that... the pirate can subtract."
Gan Ning sneered, "It's not something to be ashamed of, at least not here."
"As long as we promise not to hold it AGAINST one another, it's all fine!" Sun Ce said with a smile, trying to lighten the mood.
Zhuge Liang nodded, "Wise words, Lord Sun Ce."
They heard footsteps coming from the woods, and they looked to see Liu Bei running towards them. He paused to catch his breath, then spoke low, "Lord Sima Yi has the cages ready... what's with the new one?"
"Lu Xun escaped before he could be cured," Sun Ce replied. "So Zhuge Liang has to make ANOTHER cage..."
"Never fear, my lord. It will be completed on time," the strategist assured him giving a simply nod of his calm face. "We will just have to inform Gan Ning on the plan now, but I am sure that Zhou Yu can get them all to cooperate..."
Gan Ning blinked, "What plan?"
Addressing him as if he was an idiot, Ma Chao exclaimed. "On capturing the others if they don't willingly come."
"There's a plan for that?"
They all wanted to take turns slapping the pirate, but surprisingly, they were able to hold themselves back, and it was Sun Ce who replied, "Yes... I'll inform you elsewhere... let's leave Zhuge Liang to his work... no need for him to be distracted."
"Okay..."
~*~*~*~
Lu Xun was too terrified to even move now, much to Zhou Yu's dismay. He was trying to nudge Lu Xun out, but there was no way of moving the frightened puppy. He could not remember if he was this bad, but he knew he wasn't. It must have been the fact that he was a mistake, and he laid on his belly, trying to sweet talk him out. "I assure you, they won't hurt you, Lu Xun...."
"I am NOT coming out and that is that! How do you know they won't hurt me?"
Now that was something Zhou Yu wasn't expecting, and he gave a light chuckle, "Because I'm not LIKE Xiahou Dun... I can fight down the instincts, and so can you..."
"Instincts? I don't HAVE instincts! It's you and the others who do!" Lu Xun protested. Zhou Yu could see him now, seeing his tail between his legs and teeth snarled, as if ready to strike him. He snapped, "I'll just stay here until morning if I have to!"
"Come on Lu Xun; we don't HAVE until morning!" Zhou Yu inched closer, dodging the strike. "Look, unless you want this to happen again, we HAVE to go back tonight... don't you understand that we can only be cured at night?"
"I know... I... I can trust you?"
That made Zhou Yu laugh again, not noticing the other two were foxes that crept towards them now. "Of course you can trust me..."
"Okay then... I'll come out..."
Zhou Yu smiled, backing away to give Lu Xun room. That's when he noticed the others, and he gave a bow with his head as Lu Xun crawled from behind the bushes. He instantly caught sight of them, but his response was nothing, just a blank stare. "I did not know others were here..."
Jiang Wei wagged his tail, smiling, "He's my size! YAY! Maybe I can have someone my own size to play with now!"
Seeing such a reaction, Lu Xun's tension ceased, and he crawled towards them, still a bit hesitant. "Jiang Wei... and Zhao Yun?"
Zhao Yun nodded, "Hello, Lu Xun. I am sorry you had to experience this curse with us, but at least you will not have to for long..."
"I'll live..."
The bitterness in his tone made Zhao Yun jerk back, "You needn't mock me..."
Quickly, Zhou Yu tried to patch things up, "Lu Xun's had a rough day... I'm sure he meant no harm by it, Zhao Yun."
Lu Xun said nothing, and the Shu general only nodded, though sadly, "I suppose..."
When Zhou Yu sent Lu Xun a slight glare, the poor puppy surrendered back into the bushes, only to be intercepted by a tail-wagging Jiang Wei. He froze, asking, afraid of how intimidated he was. "What?"
"YOU'RE IT!" The puppy yelped, tapping the Wu strategist gently.
It was too funny, to see Jiang Wei dart from Lu Xun, stopping to see Lu Xun still sitting there, just as confused as ever. Zhou Yu could not help but laugh at this, rolling on the grassy floor as Lu Xun asked, "Huh? I'm what?"
Jiang Wei cocked his head, "It. You know; it's your turn to tag..."
"Tag?"
"Don't you know how to play?"
Seeing Lu Xun shake his head, Zhou Yu laughed, wondering if Lu Xun had a sheltered life as a kid. He spoke softly, trying not to be overcome with laughter, "Jiang Wei, why don't you teach him how to play, while I talk with Zhao Yun?"
"Okay! Come on Lu Xun; it'll be fun!" The puppy all but dragged the newest were fox away, his tail wagging happily.
Lu Xun asked, "Will it be painful?"
"Of course not! It's only a game!"
Looking to Zhou Yu, then turning back to Jiang Wei, Lu Xun gave in, forcing himself up.
Zhao Yun waited for them to leave to speak, "What is it, Zhou Yu?"
"We found the cure, Zhao Yun! We can't let Xiahou Dun know yet, but we found it, and we're ready to test it."
"That's wonderful! What do we have to do?"
Now, the hardest part was going to come. And Zhou Yu tried to explain it, keeping his voice down in fear of Xiahou Dun hearing the plan. "You have to get the one you love to embrace you, and they must call your name three times. Then you will be cured..."
Zhao Yun stiffened, and he sighed, "Then... we will never be cured. They know nothing of us..."
"It's the only way, Zhao Yun, and tell me, do you TRULY wish to be like this forever?" Zhou Yu sighed, trying to convince him. "No one but he or she will know of this... trust me, your secret is safe."
"I want to be cured, but... are our loves there, waiting for us?" Zhao Yun asked, his voice soft. "I... I would hate to go... with no one there..."
"Trust me... all I ask of you it to walk into the cage without a fight... the same for Jiang Wei, myself, and Lu Xun."
"W-what about Zhang He? We can't leave him behind..."
Nodding, Zhou Yu answered, "Zhang He is doing his part of the plan as we speak, so we have little time. He will be fine, and he won't be left behind... neither will Xiahou Dun, though finding the cure for him will be hard..."
Zhao Yun seemed to hesitate, but when he spoke, his words were firm, "I will accept this, Zhou Yu."
Greatly relieved, Zhou Yu sighed, thankful that convincing him wasn't as hard as he thoguht it would be. "Thank you, Zhao Yun..."
Lu Xun was almost exhausted from his efforts, and sweat dampened his tired face. He wished to sleep, but sleep would not come. The minute he would get comfortable, his temper would snap, the burning desire in him taking over again. And what was worse? He could see the light brown fur grow from his scratches, as if the transformation had already begun. Not something to look forward to...
"Hmmm... I dunno. There aren't any windows..." Gan Ning's concern never faded, and he looked towards him, trying to get feeling in his legs again as he went to stand up. "I was actually hoping that they would have come down here by now... you thirsty or anything?"
"Some water would be nice..."
The pirate smiled, grabbing the keg that rested next to him and went to help Lu Xun. He kept a safe distance, though he knew it hurt Lu Xun. Some water didn't make it to Lu Xun's lips as he closed them, and Gan Ning noticed the tears forming again. "What's wrong, kid?"
"You need to leave..." Lu Xun half-sobbed. "I-I'm changing, and I don't want you to see me... as a beast..."
"Nighttime already?" Gan Ning nearly dropped the keg, feeling his own heart race at the words. "You want me to get Zhou Yu? Or someone?"
"There's no need Gan Ning; I'm already here..."
Hearing the restraint in Zhou Yu's voice, Gan Ning turned to see the sight of what looked to be a fuzzy Zhou Yu. He was only half transformed, but it was still a sight to see the fangs and claws already grown to their fullest. "I'll call you back when it's safe..."
The pirate did not argue, leaving quickly, and Zhou Yu sighed, "How is it going Lu Xun? Do you hurt at all?"
"Y-yes... a little... Zhou Y-Yu..."
"Are you fighting it at all?" Zhou Yu asked, walking down the steps as his clothes began to rip apart. It still hurt him to transform, but it was not as painful as his first time. Hearing Lu Xun's strangled cry, he shook his head, "Don't fight it; let it happen. It won't hurt so much..."
"The chains... are tightening," Lu Xun whimpered.
He could see his pain, and Zhou Yu tried to soothe it, going to the bonds and trying to loosen them. No, he couldn't let him free, not yet... Lu Xun was the test subject, to make sure this cure worked. "Any better?"
"A little bit, yes," the smaller officer replied, but he still whimpered. "Why can't I just be freed?"
"Because, we don't want you to hurt Gan Ning when he cures you..." Zhou Yu answered, allowing his own transformation to complete itself. He saw Lu Xun's eyes widen, so he spoke, using his mind voice rather than the gruff animalistic one the transformation graced him with, 'This should be your first and last time to ever experience this...'
The clawed fingers gripped the chains, and Lu Xun gave another cry, revealing his fangs as the transformation was just about done. Zhou Yu had never seen it happen to another before, and he surely did not wish to see it again. 'Almost there... soon the pain will stop.'
"Do you really think... it will work?"
'It's our only chance... so I hope so...' Lu Xun's cries began to lessen, and the last of his clothing was torn away, revealing his light brown fur coat. His new tail thrashed about wildly, and tears were streaming down his half human, half canine face. 'There...'
Zhou Yu came closer, stroking his head gently, 'Shh... no need to cry now. It's okay...'
Lu Xun's golden eyes only seemed feral now, as he gave a snarl from his throat. He couldn't even formulate words now, as he remained silent, turning his head away.
'No; try and speak to me. You don't have to use your throat yet; just form the words in your mind.'
Even that seemed stress, and Lu Xun gave a low whimper, turning away from Zhou Yu, as if to FEAR him. 'Don't...'
'Don't what? I'm not going to do anything to hurt you...' Zhou Yu tried to assure him, but as he got closer again, Lu Xun gave a loud, almost annoying yelp that he heard before. 'Please, I know this is very new to you, but please try to calm down...'
'CALM DOWN?! Zhou Yu, don't you understand? You infected me, just as Xiahou Dun did to all the others. Can't you guess what that must mean?!'
Now it dawned on Zhou Yu, and he gave a hearty laugh, something that sounded like a mixture between a growl and a laugh when it came from his throat. 'You silly boy... I see now. Well, if you wish, I will keep my distance from you until we cure you. Would you feel safer then?'
'Yes...' Lu Xun looked up, and even in this form, his golden eyes shone out. 'I'm sorry, but I don't want anything to happen that both of us would regret...'
'I can understand...'
'Shouldn't you call Gan Ning back?'
Licking his lips, Zhou Yu nodded, looking up towards the stairs and giving a growl. Lu Xun was amazed with how different his voice was, and he wondered how his had changed too. "Gan Ning, it is time to test your theory."
The pirate popped his head back in, unable to control his cry, "GOOD LORD!"
Now Lu Xun growled, hissing, "Don't look at me!"
Zhou Yu's eyes narrowed, "You are NOT helping, Gan Ning!"
The pirate looked at the beast his love had become, and he sighed, making his way down the small flight of stairs. "I'm sorry... Lu Xun, I just... damn, are you alright?"
"I... just go! This was a bad idea; you can't even LOOK at me!"
"No... now stop moping... just think, Zhou Yu had to do this alone!" Gan Ning said with a light smile, as he now stood in front of him. Lu Xun slowly looked up at him, his golden eyes dancing as tears tried to flow from them again. The pirate took in a breath, to touch him, but Lu Xun withdrew from the touch, giving a sudden jerk on the chains. "I'm not leaving until you're cured... you got that?"
Seeing the hesitance, Zhou Yu asked, "Is it me you wish to go, Lu Xun?"
'It... would be nice...' Lu Xun answered, his gaze falling. 'I just... can't RELAX!'
Nodding, Zhou Yu made to exit, wondering if it were safe, considering the fact that anyone could see him and panic would ensue. But nevertheless, he granted Lu Xun his wishes, closing the door behind him when he left.
He wished he could leave them both in complete privacy, but it was not possible to do so. A part of him WANTED to stay, and another told him that it would be dangerous for Gan Ning to be without aid nearby.
So he sat outside, thankful that no one else was around to see him. He would simply wait until it was safe...
Gan Ning spoke softly, reaching out to stroke Lu Xun's face, "Better?"
He dodged the teeth, and he sighed, as Lu Xun replied, "Just... get it over with..."
"How am I supposed to embrace you if you keep trying to bite me?" Gan Ning asked, seeing this slight rise of panic in Lu Xun's eyes as he dodged the teeth again. He could hear a distant howling, but he could not hear its words. Xiahou Dun was calling to the young werefox... but he did not know.
"I-I don't want this! I'm scared..." Lu Xun whimpered, trying to ignore the calling. "Go away!"
"I don't know WHAT that howling is about, but don't you listen to it! Just try and calm down so I can cure you!" Gan Ning said, his voice heavy with worry.
'Lu Xun, where are you?' Xiahou Dun's voice flooded Lu Xun's mind, despite how hard he tried to block it out. All he wanted was to see Gan Ning in front of him... and to be cured. 'Lu Xun?'
'LEAVE ME ALONE! GET OUT OF MY HEAD!'
"Lu Xun?" Gan Ning grabbed him, cautious of the fangs as he tried to calm Lu Xun down enough to where he could embrace him. "You okay, kid?"
"H-he's CALLING me! Don't let him come for me, Gan Ning!" Lu Xun whimpered, the tears rolling down his cheeks.
One could only imagine the pirate's concern, as he never been like this before, over anyone. He tried to hug him, but it seemed useless, as Lu Xun began to struggle, kicking and thrashing his dangerous claws about.
Zhou Yu heard the howling as well, and also the beginning of the thrashing below. Despite his promise to stay out, he ran in, snarling, "LU XUN! CALM DOWN! The howling means NOTHING!"
It already seemed to late, as one of the bonds broke, releasing one claw, filled hand. Zhou Yu quickly grabbed Gan Ning, pulling him away from the insane beast as the second one was freed shortly after. Insanity brimmed the yellow eyes, but its source was fear, as Lu Xun fled from Zhou Yu, now trying to find an escape. "GO AWAY!"
"Do you want to go to him?! He will surely find you if you leave!"
Gan Ning could only stare in disbelief as the frightened werefox drew himself in the corner, grasping his head and trembling uncontrollably. Zhou Yu sighed, daring to inch towards Lu Xun, "Lu Xun, soon the distraction will start, and he'll leave you alone. I promise..."
"H-He's calling me, Zhou Yu, telling me things," the officer whimpered, closing his golden eyes. "He's not going to stop until he sees me like this..."
"Then I'll kill him myself for doing this to you..." Gan Ning hissed, but his fury left when he saw Lu Xun like this.
Zhou Yu spoke softly, "I know, but you must calm yourself. I cannot and will not leave you to him."
"I can't control myself anymore... I just... can't..." Lu Xun said, "And... I'm sorry."
Before either Zhou Yu or Gan Ning could grab him, the frightened werefox dashed up the stairs, crashing right through the closed door, making his grand escape. Zhou Yu was the first after him, but Gan Ning was not too far behind, fearing for the life of his love, as well as the innocents that were in the castle.
Zhou Yu's growl was immediate, "Stay behind, Gan Ning! Go tell the others what has happened. I'll make sure he doesn't hurt anyone... including you..."
"You got it..." Gan Ning reluctantly cut off the chase, taking a turn at the next corridor and now searching for inhabitants and guests, to warn them. The last thing they needed was Lu Xun's guilt trip if he would have hurt anyone.
~*~*~*~
Lu Xun, of course, had no intention of hurting anyone. What he WAS determined to do was to get that mocking, subtle voice out of the air, and out of his mind. He whimpered, 'I'm coming! Just shut up already!'
He hated to find himself on all four, running like an animal, but he could care less now. That was exactly what he was, nothing but a lowly animal, to be treated just as one's bitch. He knew this, but still, he searched for the one eyed werefox.
'You won't have to search long, my pretty little Lu Xun...'
Finally, Lu Xun found the voice, and he fell to the ground, out of breath as he looked up at the sight of the one-eyed werefox, seeing nothing but his single eye as he was disguised in pure darkness. He panted, feeling an unforgiving fear rise from within him. 'You...'
Xiahou Dun looked him up and down, appearing from the shadows to circle about him, 'Beautiful, simply beautiful. I do not know in which form I prefer you...'
'Do... you say this to all the new ones?' Lu Xun trembled uncontrollably, backing away slightly.
'What do you think?'
'Yes...' The young Wu strategist answered, backing away another step as the larger werefox stepped forward. 'J-just stop it! I know you don't care anything about me, and I do not need your false compliments...'
That only made Xiahou Dun laugh, but it died away when they heard another werefox running through the grass. 'Zhou Yu, you're late...'
Leaping between the two, the elder of the Wu strategists snarled, his chocolate brown eyes glimmering with anger, 'I don't care; I owe you no allegiance! Leave him alone!'
'And why should I? Jealous that I won't give you enough attention tonight?'
Zhou Yu's eyes narrowed, and he growled, 'You know better...'
Lu Xun hid behind Zhou Yu, still trembling as Xiahou Dun gave a deathly snarl, 'You're wearing on my nerves...'
'I don't care! I will not allow you to harm him as you have the others!'
'Stand down, Zhou Yu... or I'll break your neck this time...'
Zhou Yu sneered, 'I dare you...'
Fearing a fight, Lu Xun backed away, only to bump into someone. He turned, as Zhang He gave a laugh from deep within his throat. 'Xiahou Dun, it's not good in reacting to threats... surely you know better then to let whatever he says get to you.'
The one-eyed general gave a look, 'What are you doing here, Zhang He?'
He only gave a smile in return, as he went to lie on his back, rolling and revealing his belly in a famous gesture of surrender. 'I'm lonely, sir... and I'm hurt to see you'd rather play with this little runt and not me. Truly you find ME to be more beautiful, do you not?'
Lu Xun gave a gasp, his golden eyes wide in disbelief, and Zhou Yu growled, in order not to arouse suspicion, 'What about Sima Yi? You dare to betray one who loves you so?!'
'Well, he's not here, now is he?' Zhang He gave a rather sickly smile, rolling a bit to get closer to the curious Xiahou Dun. 'What he doesn't know... won't hurt him.'
Zhou Yu sneered, 'You disgust me...'
However, Xiahou Dun only laughed, as if to welcome the invitation. 'You are rather tempting, Zhang He, I'll admit to that...'
'Rather tempting? Oh, that hurts, sir! Surely I am more than just that, hm?' Zhang He's voice was almost a purr, and he lowered it to a husky, seductive tone, 'I have far more experience than these puppies. Surely that has a certain appeal?'
Zhou Yu kept his disgusted image up, though it was hard for Lu Xun to do the same, as he crawled to Zhou Yu, for comfort. Zhou Yu nuzzled him, 'It's okay... just try to ignore them...'
'It's hard, Zhou Yu...'
'I know it is, but do your best...' Zhou Yu gave him a smile, to calm him down, and he nudged him along, hoping that Xiahou Dun would take the bait and not notice their absence.
The one-eyed werefox seemed to be quite distracted, as Zhang He rolled onto his feet, walking closer to his superior with that same seductive smile on his face, 'Your silence disturbs me, sir.'
'Your behavior makes me suspicious...'
'Suspicious sir? Why would it?' Zhang He asked, drawing close enough to rub his face against that of Xiahou Dun, 'I do not like thinking I am losing your favor, or that ANYONE could be more beautiful than I...'
Now that seemed to ease any and all hesitation Xiahou Dun had, as he took his place on top of the sleek black werefox. 'No... I'll admit that you are, by far, the finest one among us...'
He was shocked when the swift Zhang He slipped away, taking him further by surprise when he pinned him to the ground, 'You move too fast, sir, and it leaves you unsatisfied. Allow me to pleasure you...'
'Pleasure me?' Xiahou Dun's smile was frightening, turning his full attention to Zhang He now. 'I would like that...'
Leaning down to kiss him, the black werefox only chuckled, 'I thought you might...'
~*~*~*~
"What do you mean he got away?" Sun Ce asked, trying his hardest to keep his voice from rising. He already knew how hurt Gan Ning was, and he did not wish to cause anymore damage there. "Well, you shouldn't worry about him... Zhou Yu's with him, and Zhang He's probably started the distraction."
"I know, but he was so scared and so... changed. Not to mention that NOW we don't know if the cure will work or not!" Gan Ning sighed.
Zhuge Liang, who had been making preparations for the traps, also joined in with consoling the pirate, not once turning away from his work. "It was his first night, so I presume that it could not be helped. Either way, we might have to make another cage for him as well."
"I just hope that Zhou Yu can convince the others to actually trust us enough to enter them," Ma Chao said, leaning against a tree.
"If they acted anything like Lu Xun did, then there might be a problem..." Sun Ce said, shaking his head. "How long will it take to get another cage prepared?"
"Not too long, if we hurry." Zhuge Liang replied, turning to Ma Chao. "I need more wood."
"Yes sir," the Shu officer replied, leaving to obtain some. Now it was just the three of them, and Sun Ce had an odd feeling growl from within his gut. He hated this silence... a few minutes ago they heard howling, but it had stopped so suddenly that it worried even Sun Ce.
"Do you think Zhang He will be okay?" Sun Ce asked, looking towards the light orange moon. "It seems a bit dangerous..."
"He had better be, or Sima Yi is sure to have some sort of fit and mental breakdown," Zhuge Liang answered, little or no concern in his calm voice.
He could tell he was either uncaring or focused on getting whomever he liked back. Not that Sun Ce blamed him, as Ma Chao returned with a stack of wood in his arms. "Good... this will not take long."
Gan Ning brought up the conversation that everyone wanted to, but did not dare to, "Well, we know I want Lu Xun back, and that Sima Yi wants Zhang He, so it only seems fair for the rest of you to have to spill."
That seemed to stop Zhuge Liang from his work, and he grabbed Ma Chao before he could cause any damage to the pirate. "We were keeping them in separate cages for a reason, I believe..."
"Look, it isn't fair for only some of our weaknesses to be apparent. If everyone tells everyone else, we can agree to keep it to ourselves for whenever we start fighting again. Or I can just guess until you get violently red. Take your pick."
"If it'll shut the pirate up... Zhao Yun." Ma Chao was the first to confess, sneering before turning back to work. He didn't want anyone to see his blush at all...
"Then that leaves you with Jiang Wei, right Zhuge Liang?"
With a spat, Zhuge Liang nodded, knowing better then to deny it. "Look at that... the pirate can subtract."
Gan Ning sneered, "It's not something to be ashamed of, at least not here."
"As long as we promise not to hold it AGAINST one another, it's all fine!" Sun Ce said with a smile, trying to lighten the mood.
Zhuge Liang nodded, "Wise words, Lord Sun Ce."
They heard footsteps coming from the woods, and they looked to see Liu Bei running towards them. He paused to catch his breath, then spoke low, "Lord Sima Yi has the cages ready... what's with the new one?"
"Lu Xun escaped before he could be cured," Sun Ce replied. "So Zhuge Liang has to make ANOTHER cage..."
"Never fear, my lord. It will be completed on time," the strategist assured him giving a simply nod of his calm face. "We will just have to inform Gan Ning on the plan now, but I am sure that Zhou Yu can get them all to cooperate..."
Gan Ning blinked, "What plan?"
Addressing him as if he was an idiot, Ma Chao exclaimed. "On capturing the others if they don't willingly come."
"There's a plan for that?"
They all wanted to take turns slapping the pirate, but surprisingly, they were able to hold themselves back, and it was Sun Ce who replied, "Yes... I'll inform you elsewhere... let's leave Zhuge Liang to his work... no need for him to be distracted."
"Okay..."
~*~*~*~
Lu Xun was too terrified to even move now, much to Zhou Yu's dismay. He was trying to nudge Lu Xun out, but there was no way of moving the frightened puppy. He could not remember if he was this bad, but he knew he wasn't. It must have been the fact that he was a mistake, and he laid on his belly, trying to sweet talk him out. "I assure you, they won't hurt you, Lu Xun...."
"I am NOT coming out and that is that! How do you know they won't hurt me?"
Now that was something Zhou Yu wasn't expecting, and he gave a light chuckle, "Because I'm not LIKE Xiahou Dun... I can fight down the instincts, and so can you..."
"Instincts? I don't HAVE instincts! It's you and the others who do!" Lu Xun protested. Zhou Yu could see him now, seeing his tail between his legs and teeth snarled, as if ready to strike him. He snapped, "I'll just stay here until morning if I have to!"
"Come on Lu Xun; we don't HAVE until morning!" Zhou Yu inched closer, dodging the strike. "Look, unless you want this to happen again, we HAVE to go back tonight... don't you understand that we can only be cured at night?"
"I know... I... I can trust you?"
That made Zhou Yu laugh again, not noticing the other two were foxes that crept towards them now. "Of course you can trust me..."
"Okay then... I'll come out..."
Zhou Yu smiled, backing away to give Lu Xun room. That's when he noticed the others, and he gave a bow with his head as Lu Xun crawled from behind the bushes. He instantly caught sight of them, but his response was nothing, just a blank stare. "I did not know others were here..."
Jiang Wei wagged his tail, smiling, "He's my size! YAY! Maybe I can have someone my own size to play with now!"
Seeing such a reaction, Lu Xun's tension ceased, and he crawled towards them, still a bit hesitant. "Jiang Wei... and Zhao Yun?"
Zhao Yun nodded, "Hello, Lu Xun. I am sorry you had to experience this curse with us, but at least you will not have to for long..."
"I'll live..."
The bitterness in his tone made Zhao Yun jerk back, "You needn't mock me..."
Quickly, Zhou Yu tried to patch things up, "Lu Xun's had a rough day... I'm sure he meant no harm by it, Zhao Yun."
Lu Xun said nothing, and the Shu general only nodded, though sadly, "I suppose..."
When Zhou Yu sent Lu Xun a slight glare, the poor puppy surrendered back into the bushes, only to be intercepted by a tail-wagging Jiang Wei. He froze, asking, afraid of how intimidated he was. "What?"
"YOU'RE IT!" The puppy yelped, tapping the Wu strategist gently.
It was too funny, to see Jiang Wei dart from Lu Xun, stopping to see Lu Xun still sitting there, just as confused as ever. Zhou Yu could not help but laugh at this, rolling on the grassy floor as Lu Xun asked, "Huh? I'm what?"
Jiang Wei cocked his head, "It. You know; it's your turn to tag..."
"Tag?"
"Don't you know how to play?"
Seeing Lu Xun shake his head, Zhou Yu laughed, wondering if Lu Xun had a sheltered life as a kid. He spoke softly, trying not to be overcome with laughter, "Jiang Wei, why don't you teach him how to play, while I talk with Zhao Yun?"
"Okay! Come on Lu Xun; it'll be fun!" The puppy all but dragged the newest were fox away, his tail wagging happily.
Lu Xun asked, "Will it be painful?"
"Of course not! It's only a game!"
Looking to Zhou Yu, then turning back to Jiang Wei, Lu Xun gave in, forcing himself up.
Zhao Yun waited for them to leave to speak, "What is it, Zhou Yu?"
"We found the cure, Zhao Yun! We can't let Xiahou Dun know yet, but we found it, and we're ready to test it."
"That's wonderful! What do we have to do?"
Now, the hardest part was going to come. And Zhou Yu tried to explain it, keeping his voice down in fear of Xiahou Dun hearing the plan. "You have to get the one you love to embrace you, and they must call your name three times. Then you will be cured..."
Zhao Yun stiffened, and he sighed, "Then... we will never be cured. They know nothing of us..."
"It's the only way, Zhao Yun, and tell me, do you TRULY wish to be like this forever?" Zhou Yu sighed, trying to convince him. "No one but he or she will know of this... trust me, your secret is safe."
"I want to be cured, but... are our loves there, waiting for us?" Zhao Yun asked, his voice soft. "I... I would hate to go... with no one there..."
"Trust me... all I ask of you it to walk into the cage without a fight... the same for Jiang Wei, myself, and Lu Xun."
"W-what about Zhang He? We can't leave him behind..."
Nodding, Zhou Yu answered, "Zhang He is doing his part of the plan as we speak, so we have little time. He will be fine, and he won't be left behind... neither will Xiahou Dun, though finding the cure for him will be hard..."
Zhao Yun seemed to hesitate, but when he spoke, his words were firm, "I will accept this, Zhou Yu."
Greatly relieved, Zhou Yu sighed, thankful that convincing him wasn't as hard as he thoguht it would be. "Thank you, Zhao Yun..."