It was a beautiful morning. The sky had never seemed to be a bluer blue, and the sunlight that floated down in golden tendrils to the earth was warm. Never had there been a more beautiful morning, and yet, the witnesses could not enjoy it.
They were all welcomed into the castle now, and as the whereabouts of Xiahou Dun and Xu Huang were still unknown, they only figured they were safe.
Not that any of the pack members cared in the least. No one had to mention the one-eyed man to know that they all would rather his death than seeing him alive and happy. None of them felt he deserved to be happy...
But he was the least of their concerns, and Zhou Yu looked over himself in the mirror, unable to wipe the smile off of his face. At last, he was human again! Why think of Xiahou Dun when he was perfectly fit once more?
Zhao Yun and Jiang Wei seemed equally thrilled, and he could not help but grin as he looked at their happy faces. His smile instantly faded, however, when Zhang He waltzed into the room, an elegant hand rubbing his tired, purple eyes. Not everyone was so happy....
What was he to say to Zhang He, he thought as he turned back to the mirror, to see his normal, charming self again. How could he even try to comfort him?
And he didn't even wish to see Lu Xun right now, as his feelings towards his current behavior were confusing to himself as well. He felt for him, but he was ashamed to see someone turn into that, especially Lu Xun. Still, he spoke nothing to Zhang He when he arrived.
Zhao Yun seemed willing to make the effort, smiling to try and cheer the Wei officer up, "It's only one more night..."
Jiang Wei joined in, sitting beside them both, "Yeah! And you always looked the best in fox form anyway!"
It was odd to see how the events still affected them, though, and he wondered how anyone would adjust when all of this was over. Would they return to their kingdoms and forget this EVER happened, or would it change the course of history for them?
Still, looking at the three of them, he could not help but smile. If only they could remain friends...
"I can handle it... I just need a little rest, that's all." Zhang He said, trying to assure them. He noticed how Zhou Yu practically ignored him, and he spoke softly, "What's on your mind?"
Shifting his eyes away, the Wu strategist lied, "Oh... nothing..."
What else was there to talk about? He found something, however, speaking mainly to Zhao Yun and Jiang Wei then anyone else. "I'm sorry about the way Lu Xun behaved towards you two... it's not like him at all to be like this and I'm surprised he has not come to apologize for himself."
Zhao Yun only smiled gently, and in Zhou Yu's eyes, he had never been more beautiful, "It is understandable. All of us are affected in different ways."
"He'll be fine." Zhang He insisted, resting his head on Jiang Wei's shoulders and appearing to drift into sleep.
Poor Jiang Wei! He looked just as surprised as the others, and he swallowed nervously, "Oh my..."
Seeing this, Zhou Yu gave a slight smile, his spirits lifting slightly. "Perhaps you would like a room to sleep in, Zhang He? It's the least we can do to keep you comfortable."
"Oh, but where can I find a softer, warmer, and more wonderful pillow than this?" That brought quite a blush to Jiang Wei's cheeks, one that Zhou Yu could not help but laugh gently at. Still, even as he said this, Zhang He removed himself from the position, giving a slight bow, "Well, a bed would be nice... and I suggest that Lu Xun sleeps as well... he needs nothing more to fuel anymore hostility
Zhou Yu nodded, "Follow me then, and we'll find somewhere acceptable."
As they were walking down the hallway, Zhou Yu turned to Zhang He, feeling safer to speak to him now without the concern for the other two's feelings. "Xiahou Dun is healed... but who healed him?"
"Xu Huang, believe it or not. Those two have been a favorite topic for gossip for months..."
Yes, Zhou Yu remembered the man, and he asked, out of pure curiosity, "But I did not see him at the meeting!"
Amused amethyst eyes meet his own, as Zhang He explained, "Of course not. Do you know how long he has kept his feelings a secret, fearing that Xiahou Dun felt no love for him in return? And Xiahou Dun did the same, for the same reasons. It is really a strange story really..."
"Strange indeed..." Zhou Yu gave a sigh. "It was too easy for him... and I don't like it..."
"I agree; it was far too easy for him. He should have suffered, as we have suffered, but how could that happen?"
Still, Zhou Yu felt that this was long from over, and he expressed his concern. "Now I wonder... where are they now... they worry me greatly, especially Xiahou Dun."
"Xu Huang would never do anything to hurt you or anyone else, well, not anywhere but the battlefield anyway. Xiahou Dun..." Zhang He froze, gripping the other man's arm, and his voice was deathly serious, "Please, make sure the little ones are not left alone..."
Seeing the fear in his eyes, Zhou Yu nodded, "Don't worry about it...I will make sure they are all properly surveillanced."
"You need to watch over Lu Xun most of all. You may not realize, but this cure will not change Xiahou Dun. He... has done these kinds of things before ever becoming a werefox..."
Now the fear rose from within him, and Zhou Yu almost rushed to find him a room. They had left Lu Xun alone all morning, and with the disappearance of Xiahou Dun and this news being brought up, he already feared it would have been too late.
But Zhang He seemed to realize, and he paled, "Oh lord... no, go. I can find my own room. Lu Xun may need you..."
Without another word heing said, Zhou Yu forgot the officer, dashing down the hallway in full sprints, rushing towards the lower dormitories. This was certainly NOT good news...
~*~*~*~
Lu Xun was, as they feared utterly alone, but he liked it that way. He didn't want to be around anyone, for fear of hurting them or saying something he would regret. He was appalled by his treatment of the other pack members, and could not bear to face them, nor anyone else.
He knew he was in the wrong, curse or not, and he huddled into a ball on his bed, looking towards the sickening sight of the blue skies outside. How could the day be so happy and bright, when he felt so miserable?
"Just one more night... just need to stay away from them long enough..."
"Ah, but to deprive them of your sweet presence, is surely a crime?"
He froze, feeling the slight rise of fear within his heart as he slowly turned to the window. He simply could not believe his eyes, as a half clothed Xiahou Dun sat on the sill, a grin from ear to ear on his human face. He asked, his voice caught in a gasp, "Wh-what are you doing here?!"
"An intelligent strategist like yourself surely knows the answer to that question..."
"Get out..." Lu Xun grabbed the nearest object, grabbing the unlit candle and throwing it at him. He paled as the one-eyed man merely caught it, backing away, "J-just stay away from me!"
Tilting his head slightly, Xiahou Dun asked as he stepped into the room. "Why do you fear me?"
Defiance sprung into those golden eyes, "I fear no one. And I told you to get out; I wasn't joking."
"I know you weren't joking... you're still a werefox, are you not?"
Lu Xun sneered, continuing to back away, "What concern is it of yours?"
"Strange... how you are the only one who wasn't initiated into the pack..." That smile only got worse, and he only laughed at Lu Xun's obvious fear.
"I wish NO sort of initiation!" Lu Xun inched towards the door, pure and utter terror fueling him right now. He could have screamed to get someone's attention, but he knew it was useless...
"Do you know how completely charming you look when you are terrified out of your mind?"
It was a risky move, but Lu Xun dove for the door, already knowing that he wouldn't even make it halfway there. And this was no different, as Xiahou Dun, even without the werefox power, intercepted him and tackled him to the ground. Lu Xun landed on his bad arm, but he did not scream because of that, and he tried to fight, screaming, "Gan Ning!"
"Calling your lover won't save you..."
"You're sick! I don't want you touching me!" Lu Xun bit his arm, for once praying he was a werefox now to infect him again. "Leave me alone!"
Amusement glittered in the larger man's one eye, and he cooed, "Now why would I want to do something like that?"
"Gan Ning help me!" The smaller man cried, tears pricking his eyes. Why couldn't his love hear him? Why wasn't he there? "GAN NING! PLEASE!"
"He can't hear you, so why even bother?"
Lu Xun tried to stop his tears, again biting the man's arm as he was brought closer, not stopping until he had enough blood in his mouth to spit into Xiahou Dun's face, "LET GO OF ME! GAN NING! SOMEBODY! HELP ME!"
Gripping his wrists, Xiahou Dun only relished in his cry of pain, lifting the boy up and draping him over his shoulders against his will. "Silence already... you don't think it's fair that the others were treated so well and not you, eh? "
"NO! I don't want you to TOUCH me!" Lu Xun howled, even as he was flung onto the bed, pinned to the soft pillows and mattress. He could not be rid of the metallic taste of blood in his mouth, and he continued to struggle, thrashing about wildly, "GET OFF OF ME YOU BEAST!"
"It appears that there are only two beasts now... you and Zhang He... so you have no right to call me such things, foolish brat..."
"That's where you are wrong!" Lu Xun hissed, his amber eyes flashing. "Neither Zhang He or myself, or any other member of the pack will hang to their bestial behavior as you do. You are nothing more than a rutting boar!"
He paid dearly for that remark, feeling one side of his face explode with pain as the stronger man began to rip apart his clothes. "Little runt... you should show your elders some respect..."
Perhaps it was the sound of the ripping silk that finally broke the last defenses, as Lu Xun could not longer keep the tears from streaking down his face, some of the warm, silver drops caressing Xiahou Dun's hands as he cupped his face, "Please... don't do this to me..."
"You've been a bad boy, and you need to be... punished..."
The poor, frightened Wu officer could not escape the brutal, bruising kiss that seared his lips, a whimper escaping his throat as he hopelessly tried to push the larger man away.
How could he possibly win? He knew he deserved this, and as much as he was willing to accept his punishment, this was not what he wanted, not even close.
He could not help his bitter tears, "It... it isn't supposed to be you. This... this isn't supposed to HAPPEN with you.."
"Well, not all things can be prevented..." Xiahou Dun only laughed, dropping his pants in a second. "You're just out of luck..."
Lu Xun shuddered as those bare arms wrapped about him, "What about your true love? The one that cured you?"
Xu Huang... that thought made him hesitant, but the man did not change his mind. "He knows..."
This was certainly the last thing in the world Lu Xun had expected to hear, and he resisted the man's embrace, "What do you mean 'he knows'?! How... how could you tell him something such as that?!"
"Because... if I take out my aggression on you, it spares him from the pain..." Xiahou Dun answered truthfully, kissing Lu Xun's forehead with a great amount of care. "Just lie back and relax. You never know; you may even enjoy this..."
A weak, pitiful cry was released from Lu Xun's throat; all of his fighting spirit had died. "But... I don't want to..."
Licking his throat and nipping it gently, the one-eyed general only smiled, "You know you want this, beautiful one. You have ever since your transformation..."
"No!" Lu Xun shouted, "I've NEVER wanted this, not from you!"
A sick laugh as Lu Xun's pants were ripped away. "Whoever said I cared about who you wanted it from?"
"Just... stop touching me! Get it over with and go away!" The young man whimpered, closing his eyes, attempting to hide from the cold hands that roamed about his body, "I want you out of my life..."
"At last you accept it..."
He hissed as the hands slid down his stomach, "Just... end this. Do not torture me longer with your false caresses."
Those silken hands slid to grip his thighs tenderly, but just as quickly, the grip became ice, and he screamed again as his legs were spread apart to reveal his treasures to the crazed rapist. How humiliating for this to happen, and he cried out, praying that he could be heard still, "Gan Ning, forgive me!"
He waited to be flipped over, for the horrible experience to begin, and he gasped, as those hands dared to travel lower, "W-what are you doing?!"
"What do you think?"
Lu Xun felt his tears increase, "Is it not enough to just have your way with me? Must you add to the torture?"
Xiahou Dun snickered, "Like I care what you want..."
Giving a moan of disgust, the younger man tried desperately to ignore just what those hands were doing, "You... bastard..."
"A bastard, am I? What of your love? Where is HE, might I add? I'm willing to bet he doesn't even CARE for you..."
"You LIAR!" Lu Xun shouted, even as he shivered. "You know NOTHING about my love! NOTHING!"
Now he was turned over, and he gave a cry of pure agony, as it came fast and quick. "G-an... N-ing..."
"You can pretend I'm your precious pirate all you want, but it will change nothing. In the end, it was I who claimed you first, I who have power over you, a power he will never have..."
Those words were perhaps the most painful part of the whole, tormenting process, and never had Xiahou Dun heard a cry filled with such pain and agony as now. That cry could have been heard all around the castle and even into the heavens, and he had indeed won, shattering the little pride that this pathetic little Lu Xun had left.
What he held now was a trembling, broken being, and he nuzzled the back of his neck, "That... was lovely..."
No words could come from Lu Xun's mouth, only desperate and weak sobs. However, before any more pain could be inflicted, Xiahou Dun heard the loud pounding at the door, then Zhou Yu's voice. "Lu Xun, are you in there?!"
"Ach, that is my cue to go. Later, my little toy."
He was up and gone in a flash, with the only evidence of his presence was a broken Lu Xun, who could not even bring himself to answer Zhou Yu's calls.
Zhou Yu, in the meantime, was panicking, practically beating down the door, "LU XUN! ANWSER ME! PLEASE!"
"G-go away..." Lu Xun was able to spat, though even that brought great pain and humiliation.
The tone of his voice made Zhou Yu worry even more, and he had to keep himself from shouting, "Are you alright? Let me in there!"
He couldn't even move, so how could he let him in? He gave a half sob, "Please... just go..."
"Do... do you want me to go get Gan Ning?"
Oh God, no. Lu Xun sneered, "No... I w-want nobody... just GO!"
But, on this point, Zhou Yu stood firm, "Someone is coming in there to check on you. It doesn't have to be me; it doesn't have to be Gan Ning. TELL me who to go fetch!"
Lu Xun couldn't stand for Gan Ning to see him like this, so he made his choice, gripping the blankets and trying to get them to cover his torn body. "You... hang on..."
The minute he opened the door, Zhou Yu knew he was too late. His heart froze, and his blood ran cold, and he whispered, "Oh Lu Xun... I'm so sorry. I should have been here..."
"Don't tell Gan Ning..." The pain in his eyes was hard enough to bear as Zhou Yu tried his best to make him presentable, careful not to touch him. "Please..."
"Are you going to tell him, then? You should not hide this from him..."
Slight anger rose just as quickly as it died, "How? How can I even face him?! Ah..."
"Would you like me to send Zhao Yun too you? Or another member of the pack? Perhaps they would be able to help you more than I..."
"I don't want anyone... leave me alone..."
The elder strategist shook his head, "That I will not do. Tell me who can help you!"
His tears were only so obvious, and Lu Xun tried to hard to stop them, but to no avail. "I don't need help... I'm not weak, dammit..."
"Even I needed help, Lu Xun..." Zhou Yu could remember that experience all too well, and he tried to console him without touching him, not wishing to inflict any more pain to the poor child. "The worst thing to do is to leave you alone... you need to be with others right now, so that they can protect you..."
"But... I-I was so cruel to them, without ever meaning to be. I couldn't control myself, and none of them would come to my aid now," He whispered, tears streaking down his cheeks.
Feeling the bed move slightly, Zhou Yu took a seat, his voice soft and tender to soothe the wounds. "But that's where you're wrong... they hold nothing against you, and they will be glad to help you. Why don't you go to them?"
"I... I hurt too much to move very far," Lu Xun admitted with a blush. "I could hardly walk to the door..."
"Then I shall get them... but then I would have to leave you alone for a little while and I don't want him to come back..."
"I'll.... I'll be okay. I'll lock the door and the windows, and wait for you to come back..."
Still, Zhou Yu was hesitant, but he did not argue. "I'll do that for you... just lay still..."
"Alright. Please hurry back?"
"Will do..."
~*~*~*~
It had not taken long for Lu Xun to hear someone at the door, and Jiang Wei called out, "Lu Xun? Will you open the door for me?"
Lu Xun had just gotten some clothing on, and he grumbled, mainly from the extreme amount of pain is caused just to do that. However, he did not argue, trying to bring himself to his feet to do the task without gasping. "Yes sir..."
When he did so, he noticed that the younger man had a bowl of some steaming substance in his hands, and he cocked his head, asking, "What is that?"
Looking down at it, Jiang Wei gave a warm smile, slightly blushing when the older officer had called him 'sir. He held it to Lu Xun, "It's from Prime Minister... it's suppose to ease the pain. It works quite well..."
The Wu officer gasped, immediately stepping back, "You TOLD him? How could you?!"
"Oh no, please don't think that!" Jiang Wei gave a quick bow, speaking so quickly that Lu Xun could hardly make out what hew as saying. "He gave it to me many times, for certain reasons, and I have had plenty of them myself... I told no one that shouldn't have been told, not even the Prime Minister!"
Lu Xun flushed, almost ashamed for having said such a thing, and he stammered, "I... I am sorry, Jiang Wei. Here you are, trying to help me, and I am being so cruel. Please, accept my apologies..."
His light chuckle was pleasing to hear, "Apology accepted... It's understandable..."
Accepting the bowl, and taking a small drink of it, Lu Xun bowed his head, "I thank you..."
"Don't mention it... I know what you've been through, that's all."
Knowing it was a delicate question, Lu Xun asked, slowly, "Jiang Wei? H-have you told Zhuge Liang about... what... Xiahou Dun did to you and the others?"
Jiang Wei seemed hesitant to tell, but he held back nothing, "Yes... I have told him. Maybe not everything, but I could keep nothing from Prime Minister..."
Taking another sip, Lu Xun's voice dropped, "How... how did you find the strength?"
"The strength..." Now Jiang Wei blushed, and he lied. "I don't know sir... hard to say, but when he was in front of me, I knew it was best not to lie and hide anything."
They both jumped when there was a timid knock, and Zhao Yun's voice was quiet, "May I come in?"
Smiling softly, Lu Xun nodded as Jiang Wei opened the doors. The other Shu officer entered, immediately embracing Lu Xun upon his entrance, "Oh, I am so sorry, Lu Xun. I was hoping you would be spared from this..."
He did not realize he touched his tender spots until Lu Xun gave a slight gasp, and he was released. "I'm sorry... are you alright?"
"I should be okay... Jiang Wei gave me some medicine to help the pain," Lu Xun said. He was rather glad, now, that Zhou Yu had insisted he see someone else; he really did NOT wish to be alone...
"The one that Zhuge Liang makes... that should work well..." Zhao Yun seemed at a little lose for words, trying not to stare at him too much...
Jiang Wei spoke softly, "We were just discussing how I found the strength to tell Prime Minister about what happened while I was a member of the pack. Care to contribute?"
That made Zhao Yun lower his gaze, and he tried not to blush. "Well..."
Lu Xun saw the blush, and he added quickly, "You don't have to tell if you don't want to..."
"Well, it wouldn't be good to not say anything when I'm sure Jiang Wei bleed his heart out..."
Jiang Wei flushed, "I... simply told him the truth."
Wincing slightly, Lu Xun decided to dropt he issue, giving a sigh and going to lie back down. "How do I tell him, then..."
"Do you really wish to know?" As the two Shu officers turned their heads, Lu Xun gazed, not wishing to move anymore then he had to in order look at Zhang He. The man seemed so exhausted, but he still wore a smile. "Welcome to the counseling session... enjoy your stay."
Lu Xun could not help but feel a pang of guilt as he saw the Wei officer's eyes drooping, "Zhang He... you... you don't have to stay, if you don't want to. You should sleep..."
"How could I? It's hard..."
"But... it's hard on you as well, is it not?" Lu Xun asked. "It's not that I don't WANT you here; I'm just concerned for you..."
Zhang He only smiled, crossing his arms with a small snicker, "If you really wish to tell him, please do... I suggest that if you do, you should tell him soon. It's not best to keep such things from him."
"But... I don't know how to tell him," Lu Xun sighed. He stared at ceiling, trying not to look at them and finally feeling the effects of the pain reliever. "How can I just approach him and tell him what happened? I know Gan Ning... he just wouldn't understand."
"Does he love you?"
There was absolutely no doubt in his mind when Lu Xun answered, "Yes."
Zhao Yun spoke softly, "Then he will understand."
"But... would he really?" Lu Xun closed his eyes, trying not to think about it. "I fear I don't have the strength as you all do..."
Zhang He sighed, "My dear child, it's not a matter of strength. Do you think it was easy, for ANY of us to admit to our truest loves, the things that bind out hearts together, that we were all repeatedly raped? It comes down to a matter of trust. You must trust the one you love.'
Hearing that was probably enough, and Lu Xun gave a small, little sigh, one that made them worry. "I trust him with my life... perhaps... perhaps now is the best time to tell him..."
Jiang Wei shook his head, "That medicine is going to make you sleepy; you should rest for a while first."
"But if I sleep now, I won't wake up until I change... and I don't want that..."
Zhang He walked over to him, sitting down upon the bed beside him, "I'll tell you what. You and I will sleep together in here for the rest of the day, and tonight, after our curing, we'll tell our loves together."
It was almost too tempting, but he blushed, trying to stay awake. "But what if he sees us like that? Aren't you a little bit concerned?"
"Good heavens no!" Zhang He laughed. "I would never attempt to steal a pirate's treasure, and surely Gan Ning knows that as well."
"He's right, though... you should just sleep here." Jiang Wei told him, "You aren't going to get very far once that drug kicks in. And, with Zhang He here, you have someone to guard you. He has to be the LIGHTEST sleeper I have ever known!"
Looking up at Zhang He, Lu Xun gave a sigh, knowing he couldn't win. "I'll try... thank you all for your help..."
"What is a pack for?"
Giving a small yawn, Lu Xun shook his head, "You tell me..."
Wrapping a warm arm around his shoulders, just for comfort, Zhang He replied as the Shu officers left, "To watch out for you when no one else will..."
They were all welcomed into the castle now, and as the whereabouts of Xiahou Dun and Xu Huang were still unknown, they only figured they were safe.
Not that any of the pack members cared in the least. No one had to mention the one-eyed man to know that they all would rather his death than seeing him alive and happy. None of them felt he deserved to be happy...
But he was the least of their concerns, and Zhou Yu looked over himself in the mirror, unable to wipe the smile off of his face. At last, he was human again! Why think of Xiahou Dun when he was perfectly fit once more?
Zhao Yun and Jiang Wei seemed equally thrilled, and he could not help but grin as he looked at their happy faces. His smile instantly faded, however, when Zhang He waltzed into the room, an elegant hand rubbing his tired, purple eyes. Not everyone was so happy....
What was he to say to Zhang He, he thought as he turned back to the mirror, to see his normal, charming self again. How could he even try to comfort him?
And he didn't even wish to see Lu Xun right now, as his feelings towards his current behavior were confusing to himself as well. He felt for him, but he was ashamed to see someone turn into that, especially Lu Xun. Still, he spoke nothing to Zhang He when he arrived.
Zhao Yun seemed willing to make the effort, smiling to try and cheer the Wei officer up, "It's only one more night..."
Jiang Wei joined in, sitting beside them both, "Yeah! And you always looked the best in fox form anyway!"
It was odd to see how the events still affected them, though, and he wondered how anyone would adjust when all of this was over. Would they return to their kingdoms and forget this EVER happened, or would it change the course of history for them?
Still, looking at the three of them, he could not help but smile. If only they could remain friends...
"I can handle it... I just need a little rest, that's all." Zhang He said, trying to assure them. He noticed how Zhou Yu practically ignored him, and he spoke softly, "What's on your mind?"
Shifting his eyes away, the Wu strategist lied, "Oh... nothing..."
What else was there to talk about? He found something, however, speaking mainly to Zhao Yun and Jiang Wei then anyone else. "I'm sorry about the way Lu Xun behaved towards you two... it's not like him at all to be like this and I'm surprised he has not come to apologize for himself."
Zhao Yun only smiled gently, and in Zhou Yu's eyes, he had never been more beautiful, "It is understandable. All of us are affected in different ways."
"He'll be fine." Zhang He insisted, resting his head on Jiang Wei's shoulders and appearing to drift into sleep.
Poor Jiang Wei! He looked just as surprised as the others, and he swallowed nervously, "Oh my..."
Seeing this, Zhou Yu gave a slight smile, his spirits lifting slightly. "Perhaps you would like a room to sleep in, Zhang He? It's the least we can do to keep you comfortable."
"Oh, but where can I find a softer, warmer, and more wonderful pillow than this?" That brought quite a blush to Jiang Wei's cheeks, one that Zhou Yu could not help but laugh gently at. Still, even as he said this, Zhang He removed himself from the position, giving a slight bow, "Well, a bed would be nice... and I suggest that Lu Xun sleeps as well... he needs nothing more to fuel anymore hostility
Zhou Yu nodded, "Follow me then, and we'll find somewhere acceptable."
As they were walking down the hallway, Zhou Yu turned to Zhang He, feeling safer to speak to him now without the concern for the other two's feelings. "Xiahou Dun is healed... but who healed him?"
"Xu Huang, believe it or not. Those two have been a favorite topic for gossip for months..."
Yes, Zhou Yu remembered the man, and he asked, out of pure curiosity, "But I did not see him at the meeting!"
Amused amethyst eyes meet his own, as Zhang He explained, "Of course not. Do you know how long he has kept his feelings a secret, fearing that Xiahou Dun felt no love for him in return? And Xiahou Dun did the same, for the same reasons. It is really a strange story really..."
"Strange indeed..." Zhou Yu gave a sigh. "It was too easy for him... and I don't like it..."
"I agree; it was far too easy for him. He should have suffered, as we have suffered, but how could that happen?"
Still, Zhou Yu felt that this was long from over, and he expressed his concern. "Now I wonder... where are they now... they worry me greatly, especially Xiahou Dun."
"Xu Huang would never do anything to hurt you or anyone else, well, not anywhere but the battlefield anyway. Xiahou Dun..." Zhang He froze, gripping the other man's arm, and his voice was deathly serious, "Please, make sure the little ones are not left alone..."
Seeing the fear in his eyes, Zhou Yu nodded, "Don't worry about it...I will make sure they are all properly surveillanced."
"You need to watch over Lu Xun most of all. You may not realize, but this cure will not change Xiahou Dun. He... has done these kinds of things before ever becoming a werefox..."
Now the fear rose from within him, and Zhou Yu almost rushed to find him a room. They had left Lu Xun alone all morning, and with the disappearance of Xiahou Dun and this news being brought up, he already feared it would have been too late.
But Zhang He seemed to realize, and he paled, "Oh lord... no, go. I can find my own room. Lu Xun may need you..."
Without another word heing said, Zhou Yu forgot the officer, dashing down the hallway in full sprints, rushing towards the lower dormitories. This was certainly NOT good news...
~*~*~*~
Lu Xun was, as they feared utterly alone, but he liked it that way. He didn't want to be around anyone, for fear of hurting them or saying something he would regret. He was appalled by his treatment of the other pack members, and could not bear to face them, nor anyone else.
He knew he was in the wrong, curse or not, and he huddled into a ball on his bed, looking towards the sickening sight of the blue skies outside. How could the day be so happy and bright, when he felt so miserable?
"Just one more night... just need to stay away from them long enough..."
"Ah, but to deprive them of your sweet presence, is surely a crime?"
He froze, feeling the slight rise of fear within his heart as he slowly turned to the window. He simply could not believe his eyes, as a half clothed Xiahou Dun sat on the sill, a grin from ear to ear on his human face. He asked, his voice caught in a gasp, "Wh-what are you doing here?!"
"An intelligent strategist like yourself surely knows the answer to that question..."
"Get out..." Lu Xun grabbed the nearest object, grabbing the unlit candle and throwing it at him. He paled as the one-eyed man merely caught it, backing away, "J-just stay away from me!"
Tilting his head slightly, Xiahou Dun asked as he stepped into the room. "Why do you fear me?"
Defiance sprung into those golden eyes, "I fear no one. And I told you to get out; I wasn't joking."
"I know you weren't joking... you're still a werefox, are you not?"
Lu Xun sneered, continuing to back away, "What concern is it of yours?"
"Strange... how you are the only one who wasn't initiated into the pack..." That smile only got worse, and he only laughed at Lu Xun's obvious fear.
"I wish NO sort of initiation!" Lu Xun inched towards the door, pure and utter terror fueling him right now. He could have screamed to get someone's attention, but he knew it was useless...
"Do you know how completely charming you look when you are terrified out of your mind?"
It was a risky move, but Lu Xun dove for the door, already knowing that he wouldn't even make it halfway there. And this was no different, as Xiahou Dun, even without the werefox power, intercepted him and tackled him to the ground. Lu Xun landed on his bad arm, but he did not scream because of that, and he tried to fight, screaming, "Gan Ning!"
"Calling your lover won't save you..."
"You're sick! I don't want you touching me!" Lu Xun bit his arm, for once praying he was a werefox now to infect him again. "Leave me alone!"
Amusement glittered in the larger man's one eye, and he cooed, "Now why would I want to do something like that?"
"Gan Ning help me!" The smaller man cried, tears pricking his eyes. Why couldn't his love hear him? Why wasn't he there? "GAN NING! PLEASE!"
"He can't hear you, so why even bother?"
Lu Xun tried to stop his tears, again biting the man's arm as he was brought closer, not stopping until he had enough blood in his mouth to spit into Xiahou Dun's face, "LET GO OF ME! GAN NING! SOMEBODY! HELP ME!"
Gripping his wrists, Xiahou Dun only relished in his cry of pain, lifting the boy up and draping him over his shoulders against his will. "Silence already... you don't think it's fair that the others were treated so well and not you, eh? "
"NO! I don't want you to TOUCH me!" Lu Xun howled, even as he was flung onto the bed, pinned to the soft pillows and mattress. He could not be rid of the metallic taste of blood in his mouth, and he continued to struggle, thrashing about wildly, "GET OFF OF ME YOU BEAST!"
"It appears that there are only two beasts now... you and Zhang He... so you have no right to call me such things, foolish brat..."
"That's where you are wrong!" Lu Xun hissed, his amber eyes flashing. "Neither Zhang He or myself, or any other member of the pack will hang to their bestial behavior as you do. You are nothing more than a rutting boar!"
He paid dearly for that remark, feeling one side of his face explode with pain as the stronger man began to rip apart his clothes. "Little runt... you should show your elders some respect..."
Perhaps it was the sound of the ripping silk that finally broke the last defenses, as Lu Xun could not longer keep the tears from streaking down his face, some of the warm, silver drops caressing Xiahou Dun's hands as he cupped his face, "Please... don't do this to me..."
"You've been a bad boy, and you need to be... punished..."
The poor, frightened Wu officer could not escape the brutal, bruising kiss that seared his lips, a whimper escaping his throat as he hopelessly tried to push the larger man away.
How could he possibly win? He knew he deserved this, and as much as he was willing to accept his punishment, this was not what he wanted, not even close.
He could not help his bitter tears, "It... it isn't supposed to be you. This... this isn't supposed to HAPPEN with you.."
"Well, not all things can be prevented..." Xiahou Dun only laughed, dropping his pants in a second. "You're just out of luck..."
Lu Xun shuddered as those bare arms wrapped about him, "What about your true love? The one that cured you?"
Xu Huang... that thought made him hesitant, but the man did not change his mind. "He knows..."
This was certainly the last thing in the world Lu Xun had expected to hear, and he resisted the man's embrace, "What do you mean 'he knows'?! How... how could you tell him something such as that?!"
"Because... if I take out my aggression on you, it spares him from the pain..." Xiahou Dun answered truthfully, kissing Lu Xun's forehead with a great amount of care. "Just lie back and relax. You never know; you may even enjoy this..."
A weak, pitiful cry was released from Lu Xun's throat; all of his fighting spirit had died. "But... I don't want to..."
Licking his throat and nipping it gently, the one-eyed general only smiled, "You know you want this, beautiful one. You have ever since your transformation..."
"No!" Lu Xun shouted, "I've NEVER wanted this, not from you!"
A sick laugh as Lu Xun's pants were ripped away. "Whoever said I cared about who you wanted it from?"
"Just... stop touching me! Get it over with and go away!" The young man whimpered, closing his eyes, attempting to hide from the cold hands that roamed about his body, "I want you out of my life..."
"At last you accept it..."
He hissed as the hands slid down his stomach, "Just... end this. Do not torture me longer with your false caresses."
Those silken hands slid to grip his thighs tenderly, but just as quickly, the grip became ice, and he screamed again as his legs were spread apart to reveal his treasures to the crazed rapist. How humiliating for this to happen, and he cried out, praying that he could be heard still, "Gan Ning, forgive me!"
He waited to be flipped over, for the horrible experience to begin, and he gasped, as those hands dared to travel lower, "W-what are you doing?!"
"What do you think?"
Lu Xun felt his tears increase, "Is it not enough to just have your way with me? Must you add to the torture?"
Xiahou Dun snickered, "Like I care what you want..."
Giving a moan of disgust, the younger man tried desperately to ignore just what those hands were doing, "You... bastard..."
"A bastard, am I? What of your love? Where is HE, might I add? I'm willing to bet he doesn't even CARE for you..."
"You LIAR!" Lu Xun shouted, even as he shivered. "You know NOTHING about my love! NOTHING!"
Now he was turned over, and he gave a cry of pure agony, as it came fast and quick. "G-an... N-ing..."
"You can pretend I'm your precious pirate all you want, but it will change nothing. In the end, it was I who claimed you first, I who have power over you, a power he will never have..."
Those words were perhaps the most painful part of the whole, tormenting process, and never had Xiahou Dun heard a cry filled with such pain and agony as now. That cry could have been heard all around the castle and even into the heavens, and he had indeed won, shattering the little pride that this pathetic little Lu Xun had left.
What he held now was a trembling, broken being, and he nuzzled the back of his neck, "That... was lovely..."
No words could come from Lu Xun's mouth, only desperate and weak sobs. However, before any more pain could be inflicted, Xiahou Dun heard the loud pounding at the door, then Zhou Yu's voice. "Lu Xun, are you in there?!"
"Ach, that is my cue to go. Later, my little toy."
He was up and gone in a flash, with the only evidence of his presence was a broken Lu Xun, who could not even bring himself to answer Zhou Yu's calls.
Zhou Yu, in the meantime, was panicking, practically beating down the door, "LU XUN! ANWSER ME! PLEASE!"
"G-go away..." Lu Xun was able to spat, though even that brought great pain and humiliation.
The tone of his voice made Zhou Yu worry even more, and he had to keep himself from shouting, "Are you alright? Let me in there!"
He couldn't even move, so how could he let him in? He gave a half sob, "Please... just go..."
"Do... do you want me to go get Gan Ning?"
Oh God, no. Lu Xun sneered, "No... I w-want nobody... just GO!"
But, on this point, Zhou Yu stood firm, "Someone is coming in there to check on you. It doesn't have to be me; it doesn't have to be Gan Ning. TELL me who to go fetch!"
Lu Xun couldn't stand for Gan Ning to see him like this, so he made his choice, gripping the blankets and trying to get them to cover his torn body. "You... hang on..."
The minute he opened the door, Zhou Yu knew he was too late. His heart froze, and his blood ran cold, and he whispered, "Oh Lu Xun... I'm so sorry. I should have been here..."
"Don't tell Gan Ning..." The pain in his eyes was hard enough to bear as Zhou Yu tried his best to make him presentable, careful not to touch him. "Please..."
"Are you going to tell him, then? You should not hide this from him..."
Slight anger rose just as quickly as it died, "How? How can I even face him?! Ah..."
"Would you like me to send Zhao Yun too you? Or another member of the pack? Perhaps they would be able to help you more than I..."
"I don't want anyone... leave me alone..."
The elder strategist shook his head, "That I will not do. Tell me who can help you!"
His tears were only so obvious, and Lu Xun tried to hard to stop them, but to no avail. "I don't need help... I'm not weak, dammit..."
"Even I needed help, Lu Xun..." Zhou Yu could remember that experience all too well, and he tried to console him without touching him, not wishing to inflict any more pain to the poor child. "The worst thing to do is to leave you alone... you need to be with others right now, so that they can protect you..."
"But... I-I was so cruel to them, without ever meaning to be. I couldn't control myself, and none of them would come to my aid now," He whispered, tears streaking down his cheeks.
Feeling the bed move slightly, Zhou Yu took a seat, his voice soft and tender to soothe the wounds. "But that's where you're wrong... they hold nothing against you, and they will be glad to help you. Why don't you go to them?"
"I... I hurt too much to move very far," Lu Xun admitted with a blush. "I could hardly walk to the door..."
"Then I shall get them... but then I would have to leave you alone for a little while and I don't want him to come back..."
"I'll.... I'll be okay. I'll lock the door and the windows, and wait for you to come back..."
Still, Zhou Yu was hesitant, but he did not argue. "I'll do that for you... just lay still..."
"Alright. Please hurry back?"
"Will do..."
~*~*~*~
It had not taken long for Lu Xun to hear someone at the door, and Jiang Wei called out, "Lu Xun? Will you open the door for me?"
Lu Xun had just gotten some clothing on, and he grumbled, mainly from the extreme amount of pain is caused just to do that. However, he did not argue, trying to bring himself to his feet to do the task without gasping. "Yes sir..."
When he did so, he noticed that the younger man had a bowl of some steaming substance in his hands, and he cocked his head, asking, "What is that?"
Looking down at it, Jiang Wei gave a warm smile, slightly blushing when the older officer had called him 'sir. He held it to Lu Xun, "It's from Prime Minister... it's suppose to ease the pain. It works quite well..."
The Wu officer gasped, immediately stepping back, "You TOLD him? How could you?!"
"Oh no, please don't think that!" Jiang Wei gave a quick bow, speaking so quickly that Lu Xun could hardly make out what hew as saying. "He gave it to me many times, for certain reasons, and I have had plenty of them myself... I told no one that shouldn't have been told, not even the Prime Minister!"
Lu Xun flushed, almost ashamed for having said such a thing, and he stammered, "I... I am sorry, Jiang Wei. Here you are, trying to help me, and I am being so cruel. Please, accept my apologies..."
His light chuckle was pleasing to hear, "Apology accepted... It's understandable..."
Accepting the bowl, and taking a small drink of it, Lu Xun bowed his head, "I thank you..."
"Don't mention it... I know what you've been through, that's all."
Knowing it was a delicate question, Lu Xun asked, slowly, "Jiang Wei? H-have you told Zhuge Liang about... what... Xiahou Dun did to you and the others?"
Jiang Wei seemed hesitant to tell, but he held back nothing, "Yes... I have told him. Maybe not everything, but I could keep nothing from Prime Minister..."
Taking another sip, Lu Xun's voice dropped, "How... how did you find the strength?"
"The strength..." Now Jiang Wei blushed, and he lied. "I don't know sir... hard to say, but when he was in front of me, I knew it was best not to lie and hide anything."
They both jumped when there was a timid knock, and Zhao Yun's voice was quiet, "May I come in?"
Smiling softly, Lu Xun nodded as Jiang Wei opened the doors. The other Shu officer entered, immediately embracing Lu Xun upon his entrance, "Oh, I am so sorry, Lu Xun. I was hoping you would be spared from this..."
He did not realize he touched his tender spots until Lu Xun gave a slight gasp, and he was released. "I'm sorry... are you alright?"
"I should be okay... Jiang Wei gave me some medicine to help the pain," Lu Xun said. He was rather glad, now, that Zhou Yu had insisted he see someone else; he really did NOT wish to be alone...
"The one that Zhuge Liang makes... that should work well..." Zhao Yun seemed at a little lose for words, trying not to stare at him too much...
Jiang Wei spoke softly, "We were just discussing how I found the strength to tell Prime Minister about what happened while I was a member of the pack. Care to contribute?"
That made Zhao Yun lower his gaze, and he tried not to blush. "Well..."
Lu Xun saw the blush, and he added quickly, "You don't have to tell if you don't want to..."
"Well, it wouldn't be good to not say anything when I'm sure Jiang Wei bleed his heart out..."
Jiang Wei flushed, "I... simply told him the truth."
Wincing slightly, Lu Xun decided to dropt he issue, giving a sigh and going to lie back down. "How do I tell him, then..."
"Do you really wish to know?" As the two Shu officers turned their heads, Lu Xun gazed, not wishing to move anymore then he had to in order look at Zhang He. The man seemed so exhausted, but he still wore a smile. "Welcome to the counseling session... enjoy your stay."
Lu Xun could not help but feel a pang of guilt as he saw the Wei officer's eyes drooping, "Zhang He... you... you don't have to stay, if you don't want to. You should sleep..."
"How could I? It's hard..."
"But... it's hard on you as well, is it not?" Lu Xun asked. "It's not that I don't WANT you here; I'm just concerned for you..."
Zhang He only smiled, crossing his arms with a small snicker, "If you really wish to tell him, please do... I suggest that if you do, you should tell him soon. It's not best to keep such things from him."
"But... I don't know how to tell him," Lu Xun sighed. He stared at ceiling, trying not to look at them and finally feeling the effects of the pain reliever. "How can I just approach him and tell him what happened? I know Gan Ning... he just wouldn't understand."
"Does he love you?"
There was absolutely no doubt in his mind when Lu Xun answered, "Yes."
Zhao Yun spoke softly, "Then he will understand."
"But... would he really?" Lu Xun closed his eyes, trying not to think about it. "I fear I don't have the strength as you all do..."
Zhang He sighed, "My dear child, it's not a matter of strength. Do you think it was easy, for ANY of us to admit to our truest loves, the things that bind out hearts together, that we were all repeatedly raped? It comes down to a matter of trust. You must trust the one you love.'
Hearing that was probably enough, and Lu Xun gave a small, little sigh, one that made them worry. "I trust him with my life... perhaps... perhaps now is the best time to tell him..."
Jiang Wei shook his head, "That medicine is going to make you sleepy; you should rest for a while first."
"But if I sleep now, I won't wake up until I change... and I don't want that..."
Zhang He walked over to him, sitting down upon the bed beside him, "I'll tell you what. You and I will sleep together in here for the rest of the day, and tonight, after our curing, we'll tell our loves together."
It was almost too tempting, but he blushed, trying to stay awake. "But what if he sees us like that? Aren't you a little bit concerned?"
"Good heavens no!" Zhang He laughed. "I would never attempt to steal a pirate's treasure, and surely Gan Ning knows that as well."
"He's right, though... you should just sleep here." Jiang Wei told him, "You aren't going to get very far once that drug kicks in. And, with Zhang He here, you have someone to guard you. He has to be the LIGHTEST sleeper I have ever known!"
Looking up at Zhang He, Lu Xun gave a sigh, knowing he couldn't win. "I'll try... thank you all for your help..."
"What is a pack for?"
Giving a small yawn, Lu Xun shook his head, "You tell me..."
Wrapping a warm arm around his shoulders, just for comfort, Zhang He replied as the Shu officers left, "To watch out for you when no one else will..."