Lu Xun knew he should be slightly disturbed by what he had just witnessed. Yet, all he could do was grin and shake his head, resisting the urge to laugh. It was really too cute...
He hardly remembered anything... except how relieved he was that he was no longer cursed. Things didn't bother him half as much as they used to, as the slightest whisper would have sent him into a fit or rage, and nor was he really timid around anyone else now. No, he just passed by the soldiers, who nodded, and he was going to report to Sun Ce, to tell him something... though now he had forgotten...
Scratching his head, he shrugged, "It will come to me..."
He continued just walking, not really knowing where he was going or why he was even up. Technically, he should have still remained in bed, but after seeing the pirate sprawled onto the bed next to his, he felt anxious. He just needed to go somewhere... do something...
He nearly jumped out of his skin when he heard a tremendous pounding on the gate door, and he yelled, "What's going on?!"
Lu Xun hardly realized he even left the castle, and he asked, trying to sound as civil as possible to whomever was on the other side. "Who's there? State your reasons of being here, or I'll send the guards on you."
"You are cruel, Lu Xun..."
Whomever was on the other side knew his name, but the voice sounded familiar, as Lu Xun asked again, "Who are you?"
"Well... we ONCE were your pack!"
"Zhao Yun..." His fears beginning to subside, the young boy asked, drawing closer to the gate. "What in the bloody hell are you doing outside our walls?"
It was Zhang He that answered, his voice so weary, "Waiting... for you... to let us in..."
Hearing the tone, Lu Xun gave the order, shouting to the sleeping gate captains. "You heard the man; open the doors and call for a medic! On the double; we haven't got all morning!"
Jiang Wei spoke happily, greeting Lu Xun as the gates opened, "Good morning!"
They were all there, and Lu Xun wondered if he should have even been able to speak now. However, he only went to Zhang He's side, helping Sima Yi and Zhao Yun lift him up as medics began to make their way towards them. He asked, "What happened? Is Xiahou Dun after you?"
"Precisely..."
"Shit..." Lu Xun wasted no time, giving Zhang He up to the medics as he looked to Zhao Yun. "How far behind is he? I'll engage him and hold him off; you must inform our lords immediately."
Zhang He's voice was a murmur, "He... won't come... to the gates..."
"Get him inside... be quick." Sima Yi ordered, concern sharpening his voice. He gave Lu Xun a look, speaking lowly, "Please get Lord Cao Cao. We will need his permission to finish this..."
Lu Xun would have obeyed, however, this was his territory, and he took no such orders. Instead, he looked to one of the arriving soldiers. "Inform Lord Cao Cao and have him join me along the walls... we will not kill Xiahou Dun but we will stop this threat."
Sima Yi hissed, "Speak for yourself. I will not allow him to live another night..."
"Lord Sima Yi, as you've stated, it is Cao Cao's decision and rather he lives or dies." Lu Xun said with little or no compassion, as he could not muster the strength to do so. "Stay with him...but he will be alive by the time Cao Cao makes his decision... I will merely keep him from what he desires."
Zhao Yun spoke softly, "How can you be so cold, Lu Xun? Surely you desire revenge... just as we all do."
Lu Xun quickly snapped, as he ascended up the stairs with twenty or so soldiers behind them, each carrying a spear and a bow slung across their backs. "I do not have the time... what done is done, and I only wish to protect Jian Ye and its inhabitants. Revenge... revenge is for ones who've felt they were done wrong."
Jiang Wei shook his head, "Locking yourself away is bad, Lu Xun. I'd consider talking to someone if I were you. Because you can't mean it... and you're going to hurt yourself..."
It was too late, as the strategist and his soldiers rose to stand on the walls, preparing themselves for the two person army. Zhao Yun sighed, but merely shook his head, "We have until nightfall, then Zhang He will be cured. After that, it is probably best we forget ANY of this happened."
His fellow officer turned to him, "Can you? I know... I know you had it the worst..."
"Will be hard, but you can't dwell on it forever..."
The fierceness in Sima Yi's voice made them both jump, "No... but he will pay for what he has done..."
Still, as they could hear Lu Xun's orders being given, they knew best to hold the conversation until later, as the medical men began to aid Zhang He towards the castle. Jiang Wei looked to Zhao Yun, as Sima Yi followed them, and he spoke lowly, "What if Cao Cao refuses his death? Then what?"
"Then... pray that you are not around to see the look on his face when he realizes two officers have betrayed him..."
~*~*~*~
Xiahou Dun was beyond furious, as he stormed through the woods and towards the walls of Jian Ye. Xu Huang was not far behind him, though he did not seem even half as fueled up as him, as he listened to the one-eyed generals shouting for the entire way. "I will kill them... don't they realize how precise that blood is?"
"Dun... I don't even realize why the blood is so important..." Xu Huang kept the truth from him; he didn't truly care. He wanted none of this, but it was too late to go back on his words. He asked, looking at the blood on his axe, "What about this blood? Was it not from Lu Xun whenever he was affected?"
"It won't work now... since he's not cursed any longer..."
Xu Huang only nodded, wishing to slow down a bit. "Then perhaps you should have done the job... why did you need to depend on Zhang He to kill him when you could have done it yourself."
Chuckling, the one-eyed man shook his head, "When I was a werefox, perhaps so. Now that I no longer have the added strength... I could not do so..."
"I see... then tell me... how did you expect me to face one?"
"I thought you would relish the challenge..." Xiahou Dun spoke quickly, wondering if he had to do another explanation. "I did not think it would have brought you into any harm... forgive me if you feel that way."
Sighing, the axe-wielding man only commented softly, "You confuse me... so much now. You never used to..."
Now, the castle was in sight, and Xiahou Dun drove, letting the turban-bearing man bump into him before being herded back into the woods. Giving him a question look, Xiahou Dun explained, "I thought you'd mortally wounded Lu Xun!"
"I did..." Xu Huang could see the strategist as clear as day, and he looked at him as he walked along the wall, holding a bow and arrow in his hand and looking as if nothing had ever happened. He was partially thankful, but still disappointed. "When he was cured from the spell he must have been cured from the mortal wounds as well..."
Xiahou Dun cursed softly, "Of course... I had quite forgotten..."
"Still... he sustained a lot of bloodloss... why is he even out?"
"The Gods only know..." Xiahou Dun seethed, watching and wondering what to do now as he spotted even more archers preparing their bows. He wasn't expecting this, but he gave a small hint of a smile when Lu Xun looked ready to collapse, leaning on a soldier for a second before taking his position. He could not see Cao Cao coming on the other side of the wall, though...
Xu Huang stifled a yawn, leaning against a tree, "What now?"
Smiling, Xiahou Dun nodded, "He's still a bit weak from the blood loss... we'll wait until midday. Chances are that the brat will pass out from the heat..."
"Why are you so fascinated by him?"
Xiahou Dun answered quickly, "It's not him... he won't let us in the castle... and that's where we want to be, to draw Zhang He out. That's who we need... the lastwerefox. Lu Xun is merely an obstacle..."
"Will you please explain to me... why we need Zhang He so badly?"
"Because... werefox's blood is quite valuable... if what Zhuge Liang ahs told me, then one drink from their blood will grant you immortality..."
Xu Huang stiffened, "Immortality? Why would you wish such a curse?"
He was not answered, as Xiahou Dun cursed. "Damn... that little imp has my cousin up there..."
"Lord Cao Cao? Why would he speak to him?" Xu Huang gave a look for himself, seeing what appeared to be a normal conversation between the two. "Perhaps they are discussing what to do with you..."
"My cousin would never allow them to do anything to me..." Now, more then ever, Xiahou Dun wished he had the advanced hearing, just to make sure of this. By the way Cao Cao presented himself, he seemed to be doing well.
"Lu Xun... these are serious charges you make against my cousin." Cao Cao hissed, his eyes narrowing, "Betrayal? I shall need proof..."
Normally, Lu Xun was a clam and collective young man, never one to lose himself, and now was no different. He knew this was not going to be easy, but he did his very best, hoping that Cao Cao did not notice his paleness and rising sweat. "I shall, Lord Cao Cao... as we speak, your cousin and your general are outside our walls and lingering in the woods... they most likely are spotting us right now."
"Really?"
Looking towards them, he pointed, and Lu Xun spoke with pure confidence, "There they are. You could call to them if you wish, but I assure you that they will not come out unless they have proof that they will not be shot on sight."
Cao Cao considered, "If my orders and word are not enough, then truly I have been betrayed..."
"I am truly sorry to tell you this, sir, but I can assure you that it is true. Sima Yi and Zhang He will testify if you ask them, as well as Zhuge Liang."
The Wei Lord's voice was harsh, "I will question them... you will have my answer in an hour."
The young strategist bowed, more than thankful that the lord turned away and left. Now he could release his breath, leaning against the side and panting slightly as he turned back towards the woods. Yes, he knew he shouldn't have been out here, but he did not care. He called to a soldier, "Keep your eyes peeled... and if you must fire at them, do not kill them. Snap the heads off your arrows if you must."
Seeing his nod, Lu Xun no longer fought his weariness, leaving to go lay down in his room. Now, he had only to wait...
~*~*~*
As much as Zhang He loved Sima Yi, he was forced to admit that he was not helping things go smoothly at all. He knew his love was worried about his health and angry at Xiahou Dun, which made him short-tempered, but he finally begged, "Please Yi-chan... don't shout..."
The poor medics could only obey the angered man, and Sima Yi turned to Zhang He, almost pushing him back down himself. He was on a rampage, and many knew best to stay out of his way, "I am not shouting! Stay quiet and go to sleep!"
"How can I sleep when you raise such a fuss?"
"What's going on here?" Ma Chao's voice rose, and he looked at the two as he rubbed his now helmet-less head. His brown hair, pulled back in a bun, was array now, and he gave them a rather blank look, wondering why he was in the same room as his enemies.
Stepping in quickly before Sima Yi could yell yet again, Zhang He answered, "Good morning, Ma Chao. I'm simply trying to calm down my fellow officer..."
Still giving them that look, he asked, "What's he shouting about? Is the castle under attack?"
"Not exactly..."
Sima Yi spoke now, his voice fierce, "Of course we are... that traitorous bastard's outside our walls! Why hasn't Lu Xun set him on fire yet?"
Zhang He winced, as he was pushed down yet again, "Quite possibly because Lord Cao Cao is not yet convinced of his betrayal."
Though still confused, Ma Chao tried to remember what brought him about in here, and he looked out the window, seeing the soldiers stationed on the wall. He remembered seeing Jiang Wei and Zhao Yun there, but he couldn't remember a single thing. "Why bother? Whether we kill him or not, we'll all go back to fighting anyway..."
This seemed to shock the still cursed man, "And you would have us go back even sooner to the carnage, the blood, the cries of the dying, and the stench of the dead? You surprise me, Ma Chao, that I confess..."
"Well... that's life..." Ma Chao seemed all business now, and he gave a rather impartial look. "Do you really think Cao Cao will believe you two over his own flesh and blood?"
"The choice will be his own, but if he wishes to ignore warnings from two of his most loyal officers, then it would be quite foolish upon his part, would it not?"
"Perhaps then you can tell that to him now..." Ma Chao said with a slight grin, taking his leave just as Cao Cao arrived.
Zhang He paled even more, if that were possible in his exhausted condition, and he attempted to rise to greet his lord, "Lord Cao Cao... good day sir."
Immediately, though angered, the lord ordered him to sit back down, and the two generals remained silent as Cao Cao gave them a look that could kill. They could see his anger written clearly in his face, and he spoke with a quick, staccato manner, not wishing to waste anytime with this. "Many suspect that my cousin has betrayed me, along with Xu Huang..."
"With all due respect, my lord, Xu Huang would never have left you if not for his great love for your cousin. Without Xiahou Dun's presence, he would surely return..."
"I see..." Somehow, Cao Cao didn't like this bit of news at all, as he went to stand by the window, looking out at the waiting soldiers. "I was hoping it was rather vice versa... Sima Yi, you know this is hard for me, but explain why you think he's doing all of this in the first place? What does he want?"
The strategist, controlling his own emotions, spoke coldly, "To tell the truth, my lord, I think all your cousin is interested in is power, and he doesn't care who or what he has to destroy or betray to get it..."
The lord was silent, and when he spoke, it was almost frightening to hear. "What proof do you have? How can I be perfectly sure before sentencing him to certain punishment, even death?"
Zhang He hesitated, but he spoke softly, "Very often, when he was my alpha, I would hear him say that he wished the power you and the other lords possessed. Often he would scheme on how to get such power. My lord... if my word is not good enough for you, question the other members of the pack. They too will confirm what I say."
"They are no longer a 'pack', and they are of other clans." Cao Cao snapped quickly. "It's not so easy to trust them, not as easy as you would think. Zhang He, you've grown soft..."
Looking away, his officer's response surprised him, "My lord... if you had been with these men as I was, then I believe you would not fault me. But, if I have become weak, know only that I apologize to you for it."
Sima Yi spoke, trying to draw attention away from his subordinate, "My Lord, we are still under the truce, and your cousin has openly attacked it. It's obvious about what he wants..."
"Are you certain that you are seeing this with clear eyes, Sima Yi? I know you have very... personal connections here..."
The glint is Sima Yi's eyes told all, and the strategist silenced himself before he could say anything else to be turned against him. Seeing this look, Cao Cao went back to watching the soldiers, hoping to spot his two generals over the other side. "How odd... of all places, I must chose the fate of my blood here."
Zhang He's voice was quiet, "Whatever you choose, my lord, we will both support with our lives."
No one, not even Cao Cao, wished to challenge his own blood, but it appeared he had no choice. "I will go to him and get the truth for myself. Then I will decide..."
"Surely you will not go along, sir?" Sima Yi protested. "If you do not, it would be easy for your cousin to ambush you..."
"He wouldn't dare and think to live afterwards... he's not looking for an open assault." Cao Cao sneered. "Besides, if I know Lu Xun, he will have those archers of his targeting him every moment..."
Sima Yi could only approve, giving a nod. Before he could say anything, another voice broke in, and all eyes turned to the now conscious Zhuge Liang, his face half hidden behind that white fan of his. Had he been eavesdropping the entire time? Of course... "But Lu Xun, as you know, is rather biased with his feelings towards Xiahou Dun, with rightful reasons of course."
Zhang He instantly sat up, his amethyst eyes narrowing as he took up the younger man's defense, "Lu Xun would never do anything to risk opening war again too soon or putting his clan in danger. He is not foolish enough to try and attack Xiahou Dun without Lord Cao Cao's permission; you know this perfectly well, Zhuge Liang..."
"How can you be sure?" Zhuge Liang asked. "I've seen men of their honor turn from the code they swore to follow for personal revenge. I've heard even my own warriors pursuing him to act for revenge, as sad as I am to report it."
"That's not fair! You were missing; Jiang Wei HAD to come look for you!" Zhang He protested. "And Zhao Yun came along to make sure he would not get hurt. Is this love and loyalty to you to be rewarded with punishment?!"
Zhang He's pleas were silenced by his own lord, as Cao Cao asked, almost insulting Sima Yi for him to be asking advice from another man, especially him. "Either you're edging me on or Lu Xun's good for faking his expressions."
"I have no reason to mislead you, sir..." Zhuge Liang insisted, lowering his voice. "Their men, they are all biased for such a thing, because they have all witnessed his power."
"They are BIASED because their comrades have been made meals by that monster!" Zhang He shouted, unable to contain himself. "And who can blame them?!"
"One must not let personal emotions overcome themselves when discussing politics and war..." Zhuge Liang responded, his voice a silken, but dangerous purr. "You are over distraught, Zhang He..."
Now Sima Yi spoke up, "Even so, this is not about war... this is about the life and punishment of Cao Cao's cousin."
"It's not war... it's politics..."
"Xiahou Dun has broken the treaty, so it is dealing with politics..." Cao Cao admitted, wanting nothing more to do with this at all. "Whether he's of my blood or not, I will be punished if this is all for personal gain... but now i am not sure to trust someone so biased."
Forgetting his manners, and trembling with rage, Zhang He hissed, "Then why did you come? You knew what we would say, surely. You have allowed this... this snake charmer to seduce you into doubting your own officers, who you have always trusted!"
"That's quite enough from you, Zhang He..." Cao Cao sneered, then turned to Zhuge Liang, as if to berate him. "Inform your lord to join me on the roof in an hour..."
"As you command." Zhuge Liang said softly, and how he got out of the room without being maimed by either men was a true wonder, and he gave Zhang He a sly smile before disappearing, leaving the three Wei officers within the room to talk among themselves.
However, Cao Cao was tired of discussing this subject. It made him angry, and when he got angry... he did foolish things. So, he merely looked to his officers, "I command both of you to get some rest. I have a feeling that we will all need our strength... to end this..."
"End this?" Sima Yi asked. "You then plan to kill him, my Lord?"
"I have not said so..." Cao Cao growled, then turning to leave. "But, if it should come to that decision, then may God have mercy on his soul... because I won't!"
~*~*~*~
The heat of the day had died a bit, and Liu Bei waited patiently on the roof. He rather enjoyed the feeling of the warm sunshine splashing his skin, and the view was simply breathtaking.
And to think, the peacefulness would be ruined, as he saw the one he was waiting for coming into view, a few of his own soldiers behind him. Cao Cao looked furious, and as Liu Bei rose to greet him, he was addressed quickly, "I will go talk to my cousin... I want you to cover for me, just in case if he does try anything."
Dumbfounded, the Shu Lord asked, "Wouldn't you rather one of your own officers to do such a thing?"
"Who do I have? I have two who have supposedly betrayed me, and two who are completely bias!" Cao Cao proclaimed, and he sneered as he heard Lu Xun coming up the stairs now. "And I don't trust Lu Xun either... you are the only one I can trust... not your men, but you... I need someone with little or no feelings for my cousin."
"If that is how you feel... then yes, I shall do as you wish."
Now Lu Xun approached them, and one could tell he had just woken up as it took awhile for his golden eyes to adjust to the sun's lights. Gan Ning and Lu Meng were not too far behind him, and he asked, "Have you made your decision, sir?"
"Yes. Lord Liu Bei and I are going to go speak to my cousin. After that... I will give you the answer you seek."
The pirate didn't seem too pleased, "You think it's wise to go off with just the two of you? I wouldn't trust that one-eyed scoundrel, nor Xu Huang!"
"Then it is lucky I am not you..."
The two merely looked at each other before Lu Meng gave the order to the guards, "Open the gates!"
It did not take long for the order to be followed, and in mere minutes, the two lords stood outside the gate. Lu Xun could not help but watch them with a slightly heated passion, and Lu Meng spoke up, keeping his tone civil. "Trust doesn't come easy anymore, does it?"
"If I were Cao Cao... I would find it hard to trust anyone at the moment," the young strategist admitted.
Still, the pirate fumed, and Gan Ning gave a spat, "Nothing good's going to come out of this, so why don't we just kill the one-eyed bastard and get it over with?"
"Don't be stupid if you can help it..." Surprisingly it was Lu Xun who said this, as his tone was not too oddly bitter. "We'll just have to wait... and see what comes up."
"Eh... I'm TIRED of waiting! Let's just get it OVER with!"
Now Lu Xun looked at him, his eyes quite frigid to behold. "If many of us can wait, then so can your, general... if anything we won't wish to have a war at our front door, especially now."
Almost disgustedly, Gan Ning turned to go back inside, his bells jingling slightly, "It's time like this... when I wonder if you're even human..."
If it was a crushing blow to Lu Xun, the child did not show it. Instead, much to Lu Meng's surprise, he just turned about, placing is arms behind his back and stared off into the woods, watching the two lords and a few of their men marching towards their destination.
Liu Bei was already having second thoughts, kicking himself mentally for coming along. He was quite possibly more of a danger to Cao Cao than anything. But... he just couldn't have said no...
He rested his hand on the hilt of his blade, though, just in case. He was ready to protect himself, his men, and you know who, as they were finally freed from the scorching sun. Now he could see Xiahou Dun standing against a tree, as if to be waiting for their arrival, and, in a short distance, Xu Huang sat meditating. Now or never, he thought.
Xiahou Dun spoke first, grinning, "Coming so armed, cousin? You've needed a guard to speak to me before..."
"Don't butter me up, Dun..." Cao Cao was strict and to the point, and he stopped a good distance from his cousin, knowing better than to get too close. "I want answers and I want them now."
"It is difficult to answer when I do not know the question."
Liu Bei kept silent as Cao Cao asked, looking towards Xu Huang then back at his cousin. "What is this all about, Dun? How did you get infected and why did you bring it this far?"
"It's a long story, cousin... and probably one you wouldn't believe..."
Cao Cao growled, "Try me."
"Well... first of all, believe or not, I went seeking out a werefox on purpose..." The look Cao Cao gave did not surprise him, but he explained, as his cousin listened not with rapt attention. "I was told of their power, and I myself wished to have this power. As any man would, but not to overthrow you, of course... I would never do that."
This rang of untruth, and Liu Bei asked, "Then why would you need the power?"
Xu Huang answered this, "It's what every man wants... true strength to overcome anything, even death."
"Even werefoxes are mortal..."
However, Xiahou Dun countered that, "But not their blood..."
This made the Shu lord's blood turn to ice, and he whispered, "What? What are you talking about?"
"That's why he wishes to have at least one werefox left... to drink his blood." Cao Cao explained, and he looked to his cousin, as if ashamed. "Tell me cousin... why else would you wish for immortality? What do you plan to do with this power?"
"To insure your victory, of course, Cao Cao. And the victory of our family... forever..."
Not even Cao Cao was fooled by this, but he played along, rubbing his long beard with a rather sly grin growing upon his face. "I see... if I drank of his blood then shall I become immortal, or does it only work for one person?"
Liu Bei was horrified, "You're talking about Zhang He's LIFE here! Why would you kill such a loyal officer, or do ANYTHING to risk his health?!"
"His sacrifice would be a good cause, though," Xiahou Dun said, trying to convince his cousin into this plot.
"A noble cause indeed..." Cao Cao looked rather please, but when he turned to Liu Bei, his eyes told a different story. Almost able to read it, Liu Bei turned away, now gripping his sword more than ever. "Think of it then... immortality... a dynasty that I can rule for ages! Yes... quite pleasurable..."
Keeping up his show, the Shu lord spat, "You're sick... both of you..."
"Sick, perhaps, but a reality that you will soon have to face..." Cao Cao said, his voice a false purr. He stepped closer to Liu Bei, cupping his chin in his hand, his back turned to his cousin, "But don't worry... whenever our clan triumphs... I may let you live forever with me..."
Pretending to struggle, Liu Bei asked, "I sure am hoping you're not falling for this... there's no such thing, is there?"
"Oh, but I have the most reliable of sources to confirm my words..."
Now knowing that coming alone was foolish, as the Wei soldiers behind them withdrew their swords, each holding their deadly blades to him. If he knew of a single, he would have lit a fire just to get the Wu's attention. He spat, "This is foolishness... and you know it."
Xiahou Dun grinned, "If you don't like the idea..."
Liu Bei had seen the blade too late, and Cao Cao gasped, feeling the blade seep right through his arms and jab at his side. His grip on Liu Bei tightened, as he looked back towards his cousin, seeing the slight sparkle in his eyes. He growled, trying to pry himself from the sword. "So... you HAVE betrayed me..."
"You would have died anyway, my dear cousin.... Unlike me..."
"You won't get away with this, cousin..." Cao Cao growled again, resisting the urge to collapse into the other lord's arms.
Xiahou Dun laughed, withdrawing the blade and pressing the bloodied tip oh so gently to Liu Bei's throat, "Don't you see, Cao Cao? I already have!"
Liu Bei spoke fiercely, trying to keep Cao Cao standing and trying to avoid the soldiers from behind him. "Why would you do this to your own blood?"
"Why not?"
"Get going..." Cao Cao sneered, his voice still fierce as he withdrew his own sword, refusing to give in as he pushed Liu Bei away. His eyes set their deadly lock onto his traitorous cousin, as if he wished for his final breathes to be within a battle. "You'll regret this for every day in your ever living life... I will make sure of this..."
Xiahou Dun paused, nodding, "If I had a soul... I might..."
Seeing the soldiers draw closer, Liu Bei responded by unsheathing his sword and slaying the first soldier that jumped at him. He looked back to Cao Cao, grabbing the cloak, "We must flee; we're outnumbered and you need medical attention!"
"You go... I have an insect to crush..."
Another soldier fell dead, but Liu Bei insisted, "You won't get your revenge if you're dead! Use your head; if you stay here you'll surely die!"
Cao Cao was furious, "I WILL NOT RUN LIKE A COWARD; HE'S NOT IMMORTAL YET!"
From his fury, he was rewarded with another blow, and Liu Bei watched as the two cousins threw themselves at one another, a sight that many would have not wished or dreamed to see. And Xu Huang kept back, only to watch with that stone face of his.
The blood ran in a river to stain the nearby grass, but the anger of the Lord of Wei was not to be denied.
"You're through, cousin... you were never fit to run a nation." Xiahou Dun taunted, blocking the blows with simple ease and trying to wear his cousin down. He could see the fury and desperation in his eyes, as he feared death. "I refuse to be in your shadow... especially if I was the greater."
"Greater? You will never... be greater than I, Dun..." Cao Cao could almost see Death coming for him now, but still he fought on, slashing blindly at the man before him, ignoring the hands of Liu Bei, grasping his soldiers and almost begging him to flee.
He fell to his knees, byt the clanking of swords never ceased, as Liu Bei immediately leapt to his aid. He hissed, "Don't... be... stupid..."
Now Xu Huang jumped in, and Liu Bei nearly toppled over to avoid the axe's great blade. It was a no win situation, and Liu Bei stood firmly between Cao Cao and the opposing forces, holding his sword at the guard as Xiahou Dun could not help but laugh. "How ironic, cousin... did you truly expect that I would have betrayed you like this?"
Liu Bei hissed, "You will burn in hell..."
"Not if I'm immortal..."
"If you are immortal... then you will live in hell..." Liu Bei growled, not once backing down as he was trying to plot a way for himself and Cao Cao to escape in one piece. He knew fighting all of them was useless, and Cao Cao did not have much longer. 'What to do...'
Almost in answer, a single arrow hit the ground. Which would have meant nothing, if it had not been on fire...
"Damn that little pyromaniac!" Xiahou Dun howled, quickly smothering the flames that licked at his clothing.
Those flames were such a relief, almost as much as Gan Ning's war cry as he came pounding out of the bushes, his sword waving about to steal the lives of the unexpecting soldiers. The flames did not bother him, as he had grown so accustomed to fighting among them. "Prepare to die!"
Xu Huang tightened the grip on his axe, his voice cold, "We must flee, Dun..."
"No ya don't!" The pirate was an almost unstoppable force, and he threw himself at the unaware Xiahou Dun, cursing when the blades connected as he went for his head. "I'll take your head first if you don't mind!"
Xiahou Dun sneered, deciding to do what was wise and withdraw, "Later, my pirate friend... and then I'll take back that delicious little pet of yours..."
That was a crucial mistake, one that he was lucky enough to survive as he was able to flee the swinging blade in enough time to only lose a small amount of hair. What kept Gan Ning from following him no one knew, but, forgetting about his anger, he turned to the two lords. "Don't need to tell me what's going on... I think I can take a hint."
Liu Bei snapped, "Then you can see that Lord Cao Cao is in desperate need of medical attention; help me bring him back... please..."
"No need to shout... and watch out for the flames..." Lifting one arm over his shoulders, he tried to keep the man even with Liu Bei, though being taller than the two was a bit of a hindrance. "Don't get all bent out of shape, sir... I'm sure our good doctors will fix you up in no time, just in time for revenge!"
"If not... I shall get it for him..."
"Keep your strength, Cao Cao..." Liu Bei insisted, trying so hard not to show his concerns in front of the pirate.
But, it obviously didn't work, as Gan Ning moaned, "Wait until you're ALONE at least! Some of us are trying to stomach our lunch..."
They heard Lu Meng's shout, as he had arrived too late, "Lu Xun sent the envoy as fast as he could; what happened?"
Gan Ning snorted, "What do you think? Someone was stupid enough to turn his back on a traitor..."
The pirate could see Lu Xun standing above them on the walls, the bow still in his hands. He seemed impartial to the subject, even as he could see the blood staining the ground that Cao Cao walked on. He sighed, speaking mainly to himself, "I should have gone..."
He hardly remembered anything... except how relieved he was that he was no longer cursed. Things didn't bother him half as much as they used to, as the slightest whisper would have sent him into a fit or rage, and nor was he really timid around anyone else now. No, he just passed by the soldiers, who nodded, and he was going to report to Sun Ce, to tell him something... though now he had forgotten...
Scratching his head, he shrugged, "It will come to me..."
He continued just walking, not really knowing where he was going or why he was even up. Technically, he should have still remained in bed, but after seeing the pirate sprawled onto the bed next to his, he felt anxious. He just needed to go somewhere... do something...
He nearly jumped out of his skin when he heard a tremendous pounding on the gate door, and he yelled, "What's going on?!"
Lu Xun hardly realized he even left the castle, and he asked, trying to sound as civil as possible to whomever was on the other side. "Who's there? State your reasons of being here, or I'll send the guards on you."
"You are cruel, Lu Xun..."
Whomever was on the other side knew his name, but the voice sounded familiar, as Lu Xun asked again, "Who are you?"
"Well... we ONCE were your pack!"
"Zhao Yun..." His fears beginning to subside, the young boy asked, drawing closer to the gate. "What in the bloody hell are you doing outside our walls?"
It was Zhang He that answered, his voice so weary, "Waiting... for you... to let us in..."
Hearing the tone, Lu Xun gave the order, shouting to the sleeping gate captains. "You heard the man; open the doors and call for a medic! On the double; we haven't got all morning!"
Jiang Wei spoke happily, greeting Lu Xun as the gates opened, "Good morning!"
They were all there, and Lu Xun wondered if he should have even been able to speak now. However, he only went to Zhang He's side, helping Sima Yi and Zhao Yun lift him up as medics began to make their way towards them. He asked, "What happened? Is Xiahou Dun after you?"
"Precisely..."
"Shit..." Lu Xun wasted no time, giving Zhang He up to the medics as he looked to Zhao Yun. "How far behind is he? I'll engage him and hold him off; you must inform our lords immediately."
Zhang He's voice was a murmur, "He... won't come... to the gates..."
"Get him inside... be quick." Sima Yi ordered, concern sharpening his voice. He gave Lu Xun a look, speaking lowly, "Please get Lord Cao Cao. We will need his permission to finish this..."
Lu Xun would have obeyed, however, this was his territory, and he took no such orders. Instead, he looked to one of the arriving soldiers. "Inform Lord Cao Cao and have him join me along the walls... we will not kill Xiahou Dun but we will stop this threat."
Sima Yi hissed, "Speak for yourself. I will not allow him to live another night..."
"Lord Sima Yi, as you've stated, it is Cao Cao's decision and rather he lives or dies." Lu Xun said with little or no compassion, as he could not muster the strength to do so. "Stay with him...but he will be alive by the time Cao Cao makes his decision... I will merely keep him from what he desires."
Zhao Yun spoke softly, "How can you be so cold, Lu Xun? Surely you desire revenge... just as we all do."
Lu Xun quickly snapped, as he ascended up the stairs with twenty or so soldiers behind them, each carrying a spear and a bow slung across their backs. "I do not have the time... what done is done, and I only wish to protect Jian Ye and its inhabitants. Revenge... revenge is for ones who've felt they were done wrong."
Jiang Wei shook his head, "Locking yourself away is bad, Lu Xun. I'd consider talking to someone if I were you. Because you can't mean it... and you're going to hurt yourself..."
It was too late, as the strategist and his soldiers rose to stand on the walls, preparing themselves for the two person army. Zhao Yun sighed, but merely shook his head, "We have until nightfall, then Zhang He will be cured. After that, it is probably best we forget ANY of this happened."
His fellow officer turned to him, "Can you? I know... I know you had it the worst..."
"Will be hard, but you can't dwell on it forever..."
The fierceness in Sima Yi's voice made them both jump, "No... but he will pay for what he has done..."
Still, as they could hear Lu Xun's orders being given, they knew best to hold the conversation until later, as the medical men began to aid Zhang He towards the castle. Jiang Wei looked to Zhao Yun, as Sima Yi followed them, and he spoke lowly, "What if Cao Cao refuses his death? Then what?"
"Then... pray that you are not around to see the look on his face when he realizes two officers have betrayed him..."
~*~*~*~
Xiahou Dun was beyond furious, as he stormed through the woods and towards the walls of Jian Ye. Xu Huang was not far behind him, though he did not seem even half as fueled up as him, as he listened to the one-eyed generals shouting for the entire way. "I will kill them... don't they realize how precise that blood is?"
"Dun... I don't even realize why the blood is so important..." Xu Huang kept the truth from him; he didn't truly care. He wanted none of this, but it was too late to go back on his words. He asked, looking at the blood on his axe, "What about this blood? Was it not from Lu Xun whenever he was affected?"
"It won't work now... since he's not cursed any longer..."
Xu Huang only nodded, wishing to slow down a bit. "Then perhaps you should have done the job... why did you need to depend on Zhang He to kill him when you could have done it yourself."
Chuckling, the one-eyed man shook his head, "When I was a werefox, perhaps so. Now that I no longer have the added strength... I could not do so..."
"I see... then tell me... how did you expect me to face one?"
"I thought you would relish the challenge..." Xiahou Dun spoke quickly, wondering if he had to do another explanation. "I did not think it would have brought you into any harm... forgive me if you feel that way."
Sighing, the axe-wielding man only commented softly, "You confuse me... so much now. You never used to..."
Now, the castle was in sight, and Xiahou Dun drove, letting the turban-bearing man bump into him before being herded back into the woods. Giving him a question look, Xiahou Dun explained, "I thought you'd mortally wounded Lu Xun!"
"I did..." Xu Huang could see the strategist as clear as day, and he looked at him as he walked along the wall, holding a bow and arrow in his hand and looking as if nothing had ever happened. He was partially thankful, but still disappointed. "When he was cured from the spell he must have been cured from the mortal wounds as well..."
Xiahou Dun cursed softly, "Of course... I had quite forgotten..."
"Still... he sustained a lot of bloodloss... why is he even out?"
"The Gods only know..." Xiahou Dun seethed, watching and wondering what to do now as he spotted even more archers preparing their bows. He wasn't expecting this, but he gave a small hint of a smile when Lu Xun looked ready to collapse, leaning on a soldier for a second before taking his position. He could not see Cao Cao coming on the other side of the wall, though...
Xu Huang stifled a yawn, leaning against a tree, "What now?"
Smiling, Xiahou Dun nodded, "He's still a bit weak from the blood loss... we'll wait until midday. Chances are that the brat will pass out from the heat..."
"Why are you so fascinated by him?"
Xiahou Dun answered quickly, "It's not him... he won't let us in the castle... and that's where we want to be, to draw Zhang He out. That's who we need... the lastwerefox. Lu Xun is merely an obstacle..."
"Will you please explain to me... why we need Zhang He so badly?"
"Because... werefox's blood is quite valuable... if what Zhuge Liang ahs told me, then one drink from their blood will grant you immortality..."
Xu Huang stiffened, "Immortality? Why would you wish such a curse?"
He was not answered, as Xiahou Dun cursed. "Damn... that little imp has my cousin up there..."
"Lord Cao Cao? Why would he speak to him?" Xu Huang gave a look for himself, seeing what appeared to be a normal conversation between the two. "Perhaps they are discussing what to do with you..."
"My cousin would never allow them to do anything to me..." Now, more then ever, Xiahou Dun wished he had the advanced hearing, just to make sure of this. By the way Cao Cao presented himself, he seemed to be doing well.
"Lu Xun... these are serious charges you make against my cousin." Cao Cao hissed, his eyes narrowing, "Betrayal? I shall need proof..."
Normally, Lu Xun was a clam and collective young man, never one to lose himself, and now was no different. He knew this was not going to be easy, but he did his very best, hoping that Cao Cao did not notice his paleness and rising sweat. "I shall, Lord Cao Cao... as we speak, your cousin and your general are outside our walls and lingering in the woods... they most likely are spotting us right now."
"Really?"
Looking towards them, he pointed, and Lu Xun spoke with pure confidence, "There they are. You could call to them if you wish, but I assure you that they will not come out unless they have proof that they will not be shot on sight."
Cao Cao considered, "If my orders and word are not enough, then truly I have been betrayed..."
"I am truly sorry to tell you this, sir, but I can assure you that it is true. Sima Yi and Zhang He will testify if you ask them, as well as Zhuge Liang."
The Wei Lord's voice was harsh, "I will question them... you will have my answer in an hour."
The young strategist bowed, more than thankful that the lord turned away and left. Now he could release his breath, leaning against the side and panting slightly as he turned back towards the woods. Yes, he knew he shouldn't have been out here, but he did not care. He called to a soldier, "Keep your eyes peeled... and if you must fire at them, do not kill them. Snap the heads off your arrows if you must."
Seeing his nod, Lu Xun no longer fought his weariness, leaving to go lay down in his room. Now, he had only to wait...
~*~*~*
As much as Zhang He loved Sima Yi, he was forced to admit that he was not helping things go smoothly at all. He knew his love was worried about his health and angry at Xiahou Dun, which made him short-tempered, but he finally begged, "Please Yi-chan... don't shout..."
The poor medics could only obey the angered man, and Sima Yi turned to Zhang He, almost pushing him back down himself. He was on a rampage, and many knew best to stay out of his way, "I am not shouting! Stay quiet and go to sleep!"
"How can I sleep when you raise such a fuss?"
"What's going on here?" Ma Chao's voice rose, and he looked at the two as he rubbed his now helmet-less head. His brown hair, pulled back in a bun, was array now, and he gave them a rather blank look, wondering why he was in the same room as his enemies.
Stepping in quickly before Sima Yi could yell yet again, Zhang He answered, "Good morning, Ma Chao. I'm simply trying to calm down my fellow officer..."
Still giving them that look, he asked, "What's he shouting about? Is the castle under attack?"
"Not exactly..."
Sima Yi spoke now, his voice fierce, "Of course we are... that traitorous bastard's outside our walls! Why hasn't Lu Xun set him on fire yet?"
Zhang He winced, as he was pushed down yet again, "Quite possibly because Lord Cao Cao is not yet convinced of his betrayal."
Though still confused, Ma Chao tried to remember what brought him about in here, and he looked out the window, seeing the soldiers stationed on the wall. He remembered seeing Jiang Wei and Zhao Yun there, but he couldn't remember a single thing. "Why bother? Whether we kill him or not, we'll all go back to fighting anyway..."
This seemed to shock the still cursed man, "And you would have us go back even sooner to the carnage, the blood, the cries of the dying, and the stench of the dead? You surprise me, Ma Chao, that I confess..."
"Well... that's life..." Ma Chao seemed all business now, and he gave a rather impartial look. "Do you really think Cao Cao will believe you two over his own flesh and blood?"
"The choice will be his own, but if he wishes to ignore warnings from two of his most loyal officers, then it would be quite foolish upon his part, would it not?"
"Perhaps then you can tell that to him now..." Ma Chao said with a slight grin, taking his leave just as Cao Cao arrived.
Zhang He paled even more, if that were possible in his exhausted condition, and he attempted to rise to greet his lord, "Lord Cao Cao... good day sir."
Immediately, though angered, the lord ordered him to sit back down, and the two generals remained silent as Cao Cao gave them a look that could kill. They could see his anger written clearly in his face, and he spoke with a quick, staccato manner, not wishing to waste anytime with this. "Many suspect that my cousin has betrayed me, along with Xu Huang..."
"With all due respect, my lord, Xu Huang would never have left you if not for his great love for your cousin. Without Xiahou Dun's presence, he would surely return..."
"I see..." Somehow, Cao Cao didn't like this bit of news at all, as he went to stand by the window, looking out at the waiting soldiers. "I was hoping it was rather vice versa... Sima Yi, you know this is hard for me, but explain why you think he's doing all of this in the first place? What does he want?"
The strategist, controlling his own emotions, spoke coldly, "To tell the truth, my lord, I think all your cousin is interested in is power, and he doesn't care who or what he has to destroy or betray to get it..."
The lord was silent, and when he spoke, it was almost frightening to hear. "What proof do you have? How can I be perfectly sure before sentencing him to certain punishment, even death?"
Zhang He hesitated, but he spoke softly, "Very often, when he was my alpha, I would hear him say that he wished the power you and the other lords possessed. Often he would scheme on how to get such power. My lord... if my word is not good enough for you, question the other members of the pack. They too will confirm what I say."
"They are no longer a 'pack', and they are of other clans." Cao Cao snapped quickly. "It's not so easy to trust them, not as easy as you would think. Zhang He, you've grown soft..."
Looking away, his officer's response surprised him, "My lord... if you had been with these men as I was, then I believe you would not fault me. But, if I have become weak, know only that I apologize to you for it."
Sima Yi spoke, trying to draw attention away from his subordinate, "My Lord, we are still under the truce, and your cousin has openly attacked it. It's obvious about what he wants..."
"Are you certain that you are seeing this with clear eyes, Sima Yi? I know you have very... personal connections here..."
The glint is Sima Yi's eyes told all, and the strategist silenced himself before he could say anything else to be turned against him. Seeing this look, Cao Cao went back to watching the soldiers, hoping to spot his two generals over the other side. "How odd... of all places, I must chose the fate of my blood here."
Zhang He's voice was quiet, "Whatever you choose, my lord, we will both support with our lives."
No one, not even Cao Cao, wished to challenge his own blood, but it appeared he had no choice. "I will go to him and get the truth for myself. Then I will decide..."
"Surely you will not go along, sir?" Sima Yi protested. "If you do not, it would be easy for your cousin to ambush you..."
"He wouldn't dare and think to live afterwards... he's not looking for an open assault." Cao Cao sneered. "Besides, if I know Lu Xun, he will have those archers of his targeting him every moment..."
Sima Yi could only approve, giving a nod. Before he could say anything, another voice broke in, and all eyes turned to the now conscious Zhuge Liang, his face half hidden behind that white fan of his. Had he been eavesdropping the entire time? Of course... "But Lu Xun, as you know, is rather biased with his feelings towards Xiahou Dun, with rightful reasons of course."
Zhang He instantly sat up, his amethyst eyes narrowing as he took up the younger man's defense, "Lu Xun would never do anything to risk opening war again too soon or putting his clan in danger. He is not foolish enough to try and attack Xiahou Dun without Lord Cao Cao's permission; you know this perfectly well, Zhuge Liang..."
"How can you be sure?" Zhuge Liang asked. "I've seen men of their honor turn from the code they swore to follow for personal revenge. I've heard even my own warriors pursuing him to act for revenge, as sad as I am to report it."
"That's not fair! You were missing; Jiang Wei HAD to come look for you!" Zhang He protested. "And Zhao Yun came along to make sure he would not get hurt. Is this love and loyalty to you to be rewarded with punishment?!"
Zhang He's pleas were silenced by his own lord, as Cao Cao asked, almost insulting Sima Yi for him to be asking advice from another man, especially him. "Either you're edging me on or Lu Xun's good for faking his expressions."
"I have no reason to mislead you, sir..." Zhuge Liang insisted, lowering his voice. "Their men, they are all biased for such a thing, because they have all witnessed his power."
"They are BIASED because their comrades have been made meals by that monster!" Zhang He shouted, unable to contain himself. "And who can blame them?!"
"One must not let personal emotions overcome themselves when discussing politics and war..." Zhuge Liang responded, his voice a silken, but dangerous purr. "You are over distraught, Zhang He..."
Now Sima Yi spoke up, "Even so, this is not about war... this is about the life and punishment of Cao Cao's cousin."
"It's not war... it's politics..."
"Xiahou Dun has broken the treaty, so it is dealing with politics..." Cao Cao admitted, wanting nothing more to do with this at all. "Whether he's of my blood or not, I will be punished if this is all for personal gain... but now i am not sure to trust someone so biased."
Forgetting his manners, and trembling with rage, Zhang He hissed, "Then why did you come? You knew what we would say, surely. You have allowed this... this snake charmer to seduce you into doubting your own officers, who you have always trusted!"
"That's quite enough from you, Zhang He..." Cao Cao sneered, then turned to Zhuge Liang, as if to berate him. "Inform your lord to join me on the roof in an hour..."
"As you command." Zhuge Liang said softly, and how he got out of the room without being maimed by either men was a true wonder, and he gave Zhang He a sly smile before disappearing, leaving the three Wei officers within the room to talk among themselves.
However, Cao Cao was tired of discussing this subject. It made him angry, and when he got angry... he did foolish things. So, he merely looked to his officers, "I command both of you to get some rest. I have a feeling that we will all need our strength... to end this..."
"End this?" Sima Yi asked. "You then plan to kill him, my Lord?"
"I have not said so..." Cao Cao growled, then turning to leave. "But, if it should come to that decision, then may God have mercy on his soul... because I won't!"
~*~*~*~
The heat of the day had died a bit, and Liu Bei waited patiently on the roof. He rather enjoyed the feeling of the warm sunshine splashing his skin, and the view was simply breathtaking.
And to think, the peacefulness would be ruined, as he saw the one he was waiting for coming into view, a few of his own soldiers behind him. Cao Cao looked furious, and as Liu Bei rose to greet him, he was addressed quickly, "I will go talk to my cousin... I want you to cover for me, just in case if he does try anything."
Dumbfounded, the Shu Lord asked, "Wouldn't you rather one of your own officers to do such a thing?"
"Who do I have? I have two who have supposedly betrayed me, and two who are completely bias!" Cao Cao proclaimed, and he sneered as he heard Lu Xun coming up the stairs now. "And I don't trust Lu Xun either... you are the only one I can trust... not your men, but you... I need someone with little or no feelings for my cousin."
"If that is how you feel... then yes, I shall do as you wish."
Now Lu Xun approached them, and one could tell he had just woken up as it took awhile for his golden eyes to adjust to the sun's lights. Gan Ning and Lu Meng were not too far behind him, and he asked, "Have you made your decision, sir?"
"Yes. Lord Liu Bei and I are going to go speak to my cousin. After that... I will give you the answer you seek."
The pirate didn't seem too pleased, "You think it's wise to go off with just the two of you? I wouldn't trust that one-eyed scoundrel, nor Xu Huang!"
"Then it is lucky I am not you..."
The two merely looked at each other before Lu Meng gave the order to the guards, "Open the gates!"
It did not take long for the order to be followed, and in mere minutes, the two lords stood outside the gate. Lu Xun could not help but watch them with a slightly heated passion, and Lu Meng spoke up, keeping his tone civil. "Trust doesn't come easy anymore, does it?"
"If I were Cao Cao... I would find it hard to trust anyone at the moment," the young strategist admitted.
Still, the pirate fumed, and Gan Ning gave a spat, "Nothing good's going to come out of this, so why don't we just kill the one-eyed bastard and get it over with?"
"Don't be stupid if you can help it..." Surprisingly it was Lu Xun who said this, as his tone was not too oddly bitter. "We'll just have to wait... and see what comes up."
"Eh... I'm TIRED of waiting! Let's just get it OVER with!"
Now Lu Xun looked at him, his eyes quite frigid to behold. "If many of us can wait, then so can your, general... if anything we won't wish to have a war at our front door, especially now."
Almost disgustedly, Gan Ning turned to go back inside, his bells jingling slightly, "It's time like this... when I wonder if you're even human..."
If it was a crushing blow to Lu Xun, the child did not show it. Instead, much to Lu Meng's surprise, he just turned about, placing is arms behind his back and stared off into the woods, watching the two lords and a few of their men marching towards their destination.
Liu Bei was already having second thoughts, kicking himself mentally for coming along. He was quite possibly more of a danger to Cao Cao than anything. But... he just couldn't have said no...
He rested his hand on the hilt of his blade, though, just in case. He was ready to protect himself, his men, and you know who, as they were finally freed from the scorching sun. Now he could see Xiahou Dun standing against a tree, as if to be waiting for their arrival, and, in a short distance, Xu Huang sat meditating. Now or never, he thought.
Xiahou Dun spoke first, grinning, "Coming so armed, cousin? You've needed a guard to speak to me before..."
"Don't butter me up, Dun..." Cao Cao was strict and to the point, and he stopped a good distance from his cousin, knowing better than to get too close. "I want answers and I want them now."
"It is difficult to answer when I do not know the question."
Liu Bei kept silent as Cao Cao asked, looking towards Xu Huang then back at his cousin. "What is this all about, Dun? How did you get infected and why did you bring it this far?"
"It's a long story, cousin... and probably one you wouldn't believe..."
Cao Cao growled, "Try me."
"Well... first of all, believe or not, I went seeking out a werefox on purpose..." The look Cao Cao gave did not surprise him, but he explained, as his cousin listened not with rapt attention. "I was told of their power, and I myself wished to have this power. As any man would, but not to overthrow you, of course... I would never do that."
This rang of untruth, and Liu Bei asked, "Then why would you need the power?"
Xu Huang answered this, "It's what every man wants... true strength to overcome anything, even death."
"Even werefoxes are mortal..."
However, Xiahou Dun countered that, "But not their blood..."
This made the Shu lord's blood turn to ice, and he whispered, "What? What are you talking about?"
"That's why he wishes to have at least one werefox left... to drink his blood." Cao Cao explained, and he looked to his cousin, as if ashamed. "Tell me cousin... why else would you wish for immortality? What do you plan to do with this power?"
"To insure your victory, of course, Cao Cao. And the victory of our family... forever..."
Not even Cao Cao was fooled by this, but he played along, rubbing his long beard with a rather sly grin growing upon his face. "I see... if I drank of his blood then shall I become immortal, or does it only work for one person?"
Liu Bei was horrified, "You're talking about Zhang He's LIFE here! Why would you kill such a loyal officer, or do ANYTHING to risk his health?!"
"His sacrifice would be a good cause, though," Xiahou Dun said, trying to convince his cousin into this plot.
"A noble cause indeed..." Cao Cao looked rather please, but when he turned to Liu Bei, his eyes told a different story. Almost able to read it, Liu Bei turned away, now gripping his sword more than ever. "Think of it then... immortality... a dynasty that I can rule for ages! Yes... quite pleasurable..."
Keeping up his show, the Shu lord spat, "You're sick... both of you..."
"Sick, perhaps, but a reality that you will soon have to face..." Cao Cao said, his voice a false purr. He stepped closer to Liu Bei, cupping his chin in his hand, his back turned to his cousin, "But don't worry... whenever our clan triumphs... I may let you live forever with me..."
Pretending to struggle, Liu Bei asked, "I sure am hoping you're not falling for this... there's no such thing, is there?"
"Oh, but I have the most reliable of sources to confirm my words..."
Now knowing that coming alone was foolish, as the Wei soldiers behind them withdrew their swords, each holding their deadly blades to him. If he knew of a single, he would have lit a fire just to get the Wu's attention. He spat, "This is foolishness... and you know it."
Xiahou Dun grinned, "If you don't like the idea..."
Liu Bei had seen the blade too late, and Cao Cao gasped, feeling the blade seep right through his arms and jab at his side. His grip on Liu Bei tightened, as he looked back towards his cousin, seeing the slight sparkle in his eyes. He growled, trying to pry himself from the sword. "So... you HAVE betrayed me..."
"You would have died anyway, my dear cousin.... Unlike me..."
"You won't get away with this, cousin..." Cao Cao growled again, resisting the urge to collapse into the other lord's arms.
Xiahou Dun laughed, withdrawing the blade and pressing the bloodied tip oh so gently to Liu Bei's throat, "Don't you see, Cao Cao? I already have!"
Liu Bei spoke fiercely, trying to keep Cao Cao standing and trying to avoid the soldiers from behind him. "Why would you do this to your own blood?"
"Why not?"
"Get going..." Cao Cao sneered, his voice still fierce as he withdrew his own sword, refusing to give in as he pushed Liu Bei away. His eyes set their deadly lock onto his traitorous cousin, as if he wished for his final breathes to be within a battle. "You'll regret this for every day in your ever living life... I will make sure of this..."
Xiahou Dun paused, nodding, "If I had a soul... I might..."
Seeing the soldiers draw closer, Liu Bei responded by unsheathing his sword and slaying the first soldier that jumped at him. He looked back to Cao Cao, grabbing the cloak, "We must flee; we're outnumbered and you need medical attention!"
"You go... I have an insect to crush..."
Another soldier fell dead, but Liu Bei insisted, "You won't get your revenge if you're dead! Use your head; if you stay here you'll surely die!"
Cao Cao was furious, "I WILL NOT RUN LIKE A COWARD; HE'S NOT IMMORTAL YET!"
From his fury, he was rewarded with another blow, and Liu Bei watched as the two cousins threw themselves at one another, a sight that many would have not wished or dreamed to see. And Xu Huang kept back, only to watch with that stone face of his.
The blood ran in a river to stain the nearby grass, but the anger of the Lord of Wei was not to be denied.
"You're through, cousin... you were never fit to run a nation." Xiahou Dun taunted, blocking the blows with simple ease and trying to wear his cousin down. He could see the fury and desperation in his eyes, as he feared death. "I refuse to be in your shadow... especially if I was the greater."
"Greater? You will never... be greater than I, Dun..." Cao Cao could almost see Death coming for him now, but still he fought on, slashing blindly at the man before him, ignoring the hands of Liu Bei, grasping his soldiers and almost begging him to flee.
He fell to his knees, byt the clanking of swords never ceased, as Liu Bei immediately leapt to his aid. He hissed, "Don't... be... stupid..."
Now Xu Huang jumped in, and Liu Bei nearly toppled over to avoid the axe's great blade. It was a no win situation, and Liu Bei stood firmly between Cao Cao and the opposing forces, holding his sword at the guard as Xiahou Dun could not help but laugh. "How ironic, cousin... did you truly expect that I would have betrayed you like this?"
Liu Bei hissed, "You will burn in hell..."
"Not if I'm immortal..."
"If you are immortal... then you will live in hell..." Liu Bei growled, not once backing down as he was trying to plot a way for himself and Cao Cao to escape in one piece. He knew fighting all of them was useless, and Cao Cao did not have much longer. 'What to do...'
Almost in answer, a single arrow hit the ground. Which would have meant nothing, if it had not been on fire...
"Damn that little pyromaniac!" Xiahou Dun howled, quickly smothering the flames that licked at his clothing.
Those flames were such a relief, almost as much as Gan Ning's war cry as he came pounding out of the bushes, his sword waving about to steal the lives of the unexpecting soldiers. The flames did not bother him, as he had grown so accustomed to fighting among them. "Prepare to die!"
Xu Huang tightened the grip on his axe, his voice cold, "We must flee, Dun..."
"No ya don't!" The pirate was an almost unstoppable force, and he threw himself at the unaware Xiahou Dun, cursing when the blades connected as he went for his head. "I'll take your head first if you don't mind!"
Xiahou Dun sneered, deciding to do what was wise and withdraw, "Later, my pirate friend... and then I'll take back that delicious little pet of yours..."
That was a crucial mistake, one that he was lucky enough to survive as he was able to flee the swinging blade in enough time to only lose a small amount of hair. What kept Gan Ning from following him no one knew, but, forgetting about his anger, he turned to the two lords. "Don't need to tell me what's going on... I think I can take a hint."
Liu Bei snapped, "Then you can see that Lord Cao Cao is in desperate need of medical attention; help me bring him back... please..."
"No need to shout... and watch out for the flames..." Lifting one arm over his shoulders, he tried to keep the man even with Liu Bei, though being taller than the two was a bit of a hindrance. "Don't get all bent out of shape, sir... I'm sure our good doctors will fix you up in no time, just in time for revenge!"
"If not... I shall get it for him..."
"Keep your strength, Cao Cao..." Liu Bei insisted, trying so hard not to show his concerns in front of the pirate.
But, it obviously didn't work, as Gan Ning moaned, "Wait until you're ALONE at least! Some of us are trying to stomach our lunch..."
They heard Lu Meng's shout, as he had arrived too late, "Lu Xun sent the envoy as fast as he could; what happened?"
Gan Ning snorted, "What do you think? Someone was stupid enough to turn his back on a traitor..."
The pirate could see Lu Xun standing above them on the walls, the bow still in his hands. He seemed impartial to the subject, even as he could see the blood staining the ground that Cao Cao walked on. He sighed, speaking mainly to himself, "I should have gone..."