It was rather a strange gathering, almost a celebration it seemed. Tonight was not only the night of the new year, but it was another night for the full moon. Soon, Zhang He, the last of the werefoxes, were to transform, and if Xiahou Dun and his newly formed clan had their way, it would truly be his last. This sacrifice, to them, was well worth it, for they were willing to give up everything for their immortality.
Zhou Yu was the only one, other than Zhang He of course, who did not celebrate. Every muscle in his body was tense, and he smoldered quietly in his rage. He hated this...
To his right was this traitor, keeping his face hidden well behind that damned fan of his, and to his left, the quiet Xu Huang. And there, in front of him, going on with his damned speech, was the one-eyed general himself. The bastard...
He could not bear to hear him brag and talk on and on, so he walked away from the fires. The cheers of the excited crowd echoed behind him, and he hissed, walking towards where Zhang He was being held, "Stupid twits... as if he is going to share the immortality with them..."
The general was bound by chains, and he did not look up when Zhou Yu joined his side. He only looked towards the fire, waiting for the moon to rise and begin his curse.
"You don't have to go through with this, you know. You can break those chains and escape after you transform..."
Zhang He shook his head, a weak smile brightening his face ever so slightly, "Even so, what then? It's over... I cannot hurt the foolish innocents."
Zhou Yu sighed, "But we cannot simply allow this... power to fall into Xiahou Dun's hands! There has to be another way..."
"When you find one, then tell me..."
"I do not want you to be sacrificed for nothing! You do not have to fight; you can outrun anyone here. And I can keep them occupied long enough to allow you the time you will need... and if you can find Sima Yi and get cured, then there will be no possible way for them to get your blood..."
It was useless, as Zhang He refused, "They will not let that stop them... they will rather wage war then give up."
Zhou Yu whispered, "I do not want to kill you... but I will, if I cannot think of another way..."
When Zhang He looked at him, he could see Zhou Yu gripping his sword, but he did not beg for his life. Better to end this now before others could drink of the blood, and Zhou Yu raised his sword, preparing to slay him. "I'll give your body to Sima Yi and you will be rewarded with a decent funeral."
"Thank you... but do it quickly, before it is too late..."
The blade was almost there before Xu Huang knocked it cleanly out of his hands, and Xiahou Dun's speech died away as he turned to the scene, smiling as the Wu strategist was brought to the ground, Xu Huang's blade under his chin. Zhuge Liang said nothing, as Xiahou Dun approached them, withdrawing his own sword. "It's best for you to mind your own business..."
"My business is to see you burn in hell!"
Soldiers laughed, and Xiahou Dun kicked dirt towards Zhou Yu, his grin only deepening with his insanity, "Unfortunately you'll never get that chance... why don't you just play smart and give it up?"
He shivered in delight as those brown eyes burned with determination, "I will never cease fighting you, demon!"
This only made Xiahou Dun laugh, and he turned his attention away from him and towards Zhang He, who said nothing. The moon had risen, and it was time...
As soon as the silvery moonlight struck him, the change came, and within seconds those purple eyes, canine now, met his own, and that irresistible voice charmed everyone's ears, "I am sorry, Zhou Yu..."
"Yeah... me too..." Zhou Yu sneered, hating this feeling of uselessness...
Xiahou Dun only strode closer, running the dull side of his blade down the werefox's face, "It is a pity... to have to kill something so beautiful..."
It was Xu Huang who spoke up, "Get on with it, before the others come."
"Would you care for the honor, love?" Xiahou Dun grinned, turning his sword about and handed the end towards him. The general had his honor left, as he denied such a thing.
"I do not wish his death, Dun... that is your desire."
Before Xiahou Dun could say anything, Zhuge Liang's soft voice grabbed their attention. "I suggest you make the sacrifice as quickly as possible. They could arrive any minute from now."
"You heartless BASTARD! There is a special place in hell for traitors!" Zhou Yu bellowed, struggling against Xu Huang's superior strength. Zhuge Liang merely looked at him, saying nothing as Xiahou Dun fiddled with his blade, only taunting Zhang He.
The werefox did nothing, not even flinch, as the sword blade sliced his cheek, though he spoke softly, "Do not expect any reaction from me; I will not give you the pleasure..."
"Who said I'm doing this out of pleasure?"
"Do not think me a fool; I know the pain of others gives you pleasure... as does fear. I intend to give you neither." Zhang He replied in his silken voice, turning away to stare at the dazzling moon. "It's only a pity that your cousin was betrayed by one who's lost all means of reason... for this!"
Again the blade struck, directly above his eyes, and again he did nothing, merely waiting for death.
What stopped Xiahou Dun in the first place was a question, and Xu Huang sighed, "You don't have to toy with him; he's willing to go down with his honor."
"We need not kill him just yet... let's test this theory of ours first..." The one-eyed general replied, leaning forward to lick the blood trickling down the dark fur. "These cuts should suffice at first... before the final blow..."
This seemed to please the soldiers, but Zhuge Liang highly protested against it. "One lick will not be enough, I'm afraid."
"Whoever said... I was going to only have one lick? He is, as always, delicious..."
Zhou Yu growled, "Okay, you had your lick! Now what?!"
"You need to learn to hold your tongue..."
That was a comment not a lot cared to hear, but Zhang He only sighed, only wishing for his torment to end soon. He sniffled, to try to hide his tears, but his nose caught the scent of something, someone, familiar. And whoever they were coming... fast.
"You sense something, puppy?"
Not wishing to give away the newcomer's presence, Zhang He lied, even though now he could clearly see the dust rising over the trees. "No... only death."
"I'll make it quick for you, my beauty..." Xiahou Dun promised, pressing the blade to that ebony throat, "You will hardly feel the blade..."
Zhou Yu only struggled more, and Xiahou Dun seemed ready to complete the task to please the cheering soldiers, when the cries of a horse caught their ears. They were suspecting Ma Chao, as he was skilled with the horse, or Lu Meng, but they didn't expect to see Lu Xun ride towards them, breaking through the bushes and cutting short a few feet from the one eyed general. Immediately, the soldiers raised their swords and spears, but they did not move.
The boy raised one of his golden blades, his voice as soft as it was serious, "Release him now... this has gone on long enough..."
Standing at the ready, Xu Huang awaited orders, as Xiahou Dun eyed him strangely. "Surely you're not alone... that would be foolish of you then."
"I find my wisdom deserts me, where you are concerned..." Lu Xun replied, and to Zhou Yu's surprise, the youth dropped his weapons to the ground and held his hands to his front, as if waiting to be bound. With the way he spoke, it was hard to tell if this was a ruse or not, as he bowed his head. "What use is wisdom if one hasn't the years behind him, nor the will or heart to find it?"
Zhuge Liang was still suspicious, and it showed in his words, "You have not the will nor the heart to find wisdom... but courage you have aplenty?"
The horse stepped up a few steps, as Lu Xun kept silent, only keeping his eyes directed towards the enemy, to avoid all other glances. Zhou Yu sneered, "You're... you're surrendering?"
"No... I'm going to kill this man who has caused us all so much pain... before it is too late to do so..."
Xiahou Dun laughed, removing his weapon from Zhang He's grasp and turning the tip upon Lu Xun now. The boy did not flinch, but his eyes were that of someone pained. "Why are you alone?"
"Because if I am too late, then you are not worth the death of anyone else..." Lu Xun said as his horse, fearful of the blade, gave a slight jerk. Zhou Yu figured he was there as a distraction, but where were the others? Surely Lu Xun wasn't that stupid to come alone, unless something truly provoked him to do so. "Whenever you are ready."
"Always so cold... do you even HAVE a heart in there, little one?" Xiahou Dun asked, directing the tip of the blade to the boy's chest.
That wasn't what Lu Xun wanted to hear, as he tried so very hard to deny any emotions. He failed as his eyes showed his slight anger in those words, as Zhuge Liang addressed Xiahou Dun. "The others will come. Kill him now before he causes any trouble."
Zhou Yu howled, still struggling to become free, "YOU TOUCH HIM AND I'LL FEED YOU TO THE BIRDS!"
"Such threats don't help," Xiahou Dun simply said, nipping Lu Xun's chest and taking a bit of material with his blade. The youth flinched, but nothing more as his hand wandered to touch it. "Besides, he hasn't a heart, so I could stab him there and he'd still keep that look upon his face."
"Don't... touch... me..."
There was laughter that rose as Xiahou Dun merely mocked him, failing to see Lu Xun's plan working as Lu Meng, Gan Ning, and several soldiers snuck about around them, preparing their fire arrows. "So there IS a heart somewhere in there. Thought the effects of the curse ate it away, but I see that you can still witness pain and anger. No love though, that's a fact."
"None for you..." Lu Xun said, his horse giving a stomp and rattling its head, not liking the situation any more than he did. He didn't know why he agreed to this, but nevertheless, he tried his best. "If it satisfies you and others, I do have a want for revenge."
"Well THAT is certainly a relief..."
As Zhou Yu's struggles increased, Gan Ning took his position, aiming his arrow at Xu Huang's heart. Something irked him, but hearing Lu Xun's reply was enough to reinforce his target. "Enough of talk... will you or will you not face me?"
"As much as I am tempted... I have a task at hand to finish..."
Returning the blade to the original target, Xiahou Dun shrugged. "After I am immortal then you can have your pleasant death. Or... I could allow you to live forever in your heartless, emotionless state, since feeling true pain is impossible for one as focused as you."
"You could not force that cursed blood down my throat..." Lu Xun simply stated, and as Xiahou Dun was ready to spill the blood, Lu Xun spoke up again, against Zhuge Liang's wishes. "Besides... that blood will not grant you immortality. That is such a foolish thing to do..."
"Then you have confirmed that is a wise thing, since a logical person such as yourself would say the opposite of what is true to their enemy..." Zhuge Liang countered, giving Lu Xun an almost deadly gaze. It was a mistake for Lu Xun, as the Sleeping Dragon's eye caught Lu Meng's halberd. However, he said nothing, merely stalling time. "I assure you, Xiahou Dun, that his blood will grant what you desire."
"Then... let us waste no more time..."
Gan Ning pulled back the bow's string, glaring at Xu Huang and merely waiting for the signal. All Lu Xun had to do was dismount, but what was holding him?
As if in answer, Lu Xun spoke quietly before swinging off the horse to hit the ground, "May these fires only be the first of many you see..."
That was it, but it seemed already too late. The blood splashed about when the blade slit the throat, and Gan Ning's arrow flew, its target completely unaware of the blow. The chaos had begun, as Lu Meng and his men gave a fierce shout before revealing themselves.
Zhou Yu threw Xu Huang off, staring blatantly as the blood formed a pool beneath the still living werefox, and he felt tears prick his eyes, "No..."
The soldiers were caught unaware, but they fought against the incoming forces, practically creating a barrier around Xiahou Dun and the bleeding Zhang He. Lu Xun. grasping his swords, was the first to throw himself at the one eyed general, only catching his blade within his own before being overpowered and thrown away.
Zhou Yu tried not to flinch as Xiahou Dun knelt before the bound werefox, placing his lips to his throat. The general drank deeply, allowing the hot, ruby liquid to slide down his throat, until he took his blood-stained lips away. Staring deep into those fading amethyst eyes, he purred, "Like wine..."
Zhang He said nothing, his eyes still staring upon the moon. He could see Lu Meng, Lu Xun, and Gan Ning, but not his Sima Yi.
The one-eyed general laughed, "No... your love is not here to save you..."
"Not yet..." Lu Xun sneered, standing back and not engaging at all. He pointed his blade to Xiahou Dun, who wiped the blood away from his lips amongst the battle. "But he will come, as well as Cao Cao and the entire armed forces... even if you do become immortal, you will live everyday in your life in pain..."
"To see the look on Sima Yi's face... as he cradles the corpse in his arms... will be worth it..."
Gan Ning was disappointed to see his arrow miss, and, withdrawing his sword, he charged Xu Huang alone, angered to see his sword ricocheted from the axe's superior blade. He was going to make Xiahou Dun fell the pain of losing a loved one by his life alone...
It was hardly a surprise when Zhuge Liang tried to stop him, his voice as smooth as ever, "No... leave him be, pirate. His pain will be great... soon enough..."
"Shut up and die quietly, okay?" Gan Ning turned about, nearly taking the strategist's head with the deadly blow. "Pirates don't take kindly to traitors!"
"Let him live... to see his love die..."
The pirate did not care, turning back to Xu Huang and continuing his attack, releasing his fury upon the man. He was too blinded to see Xu Huang's anguish, but he didn't care. As long as he got his revenge!
Xiahou Dun was getting a different kind of revenge, taunting the dying Zhang He even as he battled Lu Xun, "Has your life passed before your eyes yet, my beauty? Or is the black just crawling upon you? It won't be long now... before those gorgeous purple eyes of yours are perfectly clear, sightless... dead..."
"Si... Sima Yi..." Tears lit those eyes, but nothing more.
"No, my darling... no 'Yi-chan' to save you this time. No one to watch you die... except for me..."
Lu Xun gave a scream, almost taking him completely by surprise. Barely dodging the blades, Xiahou Dun caught him, grabbing him by the scruff of his shirt and, with a grunt, hurled him aside, not caring where he fell. He turned his attention back tot he dying werefox, grinning as he began to feel the effects of the blood running through his body.
He walked over to Zhang He, kissing his forehead gently, as all the poor, dying man could do was whimper, "Thank you... I feel wonderful thanks to you..."
"B-bastard..." Zhang He choked, glaring at him with those sparkling violet eyes, and, spitting blood at his boot, he looked away, to accept his fate. "May... may your et-eternal life-be-in...Hell!"
"I am tempted to drink more of your sweet blood until your heart stops... but I think it would be mostly a waste of energy," Xiahou Dun chuckled, leaning forward to purr in the werefox's ear. "Farewell..."
As the battle raged on around them, the one eyed general kicked the werefox off of the rock, turning away and raising his bloody sword to catch everyone's attention. "Drink your fill; there is only one were-beast to go around!"
In an instant the men gathered around him, almost knocking each other over to be the first one there. To the poor Zhang He, who was beginning to feel blackness claw at the corners of his eyes, the jeering crowds of men prompted a memory of another time, and he buried his head into the bloody grass, praying that his death would come soon...
However, hearing several cries raised his head, seeing Zhou Yu's fierce blade slicing through them as he threw himself upon the mob, accompanied by Gan Ning and Lu Meng's. It was a vicious free-for all, one that he would never see...
Somehow, it made him glad to see that there were people willing to try and save him, despite the fact that they were enemies in the past and would undoubtedly have been enemies again if he had been granted the chance to live. Zhang He closed his eyes, ready to succumb to the seductive touch of death. 'Yi-chan... I'm sorry... to have been forced to leave you...'
He felt hands, and he looked into Lu Xun's bright, golden eyes. The boy seemed frightened and near panic, as he spoke aloud to himself as he tried to cover the wound with his own hands. "What to do... what to do?"
Though it took so much effort, Zhang He was rewarded by being able to whisper into the boy's mind, 'It is okay... little one. There is nothing... you can do for me now...'
Still, he tore the straps from his pants, letting it turn bright red as he tried to stop the bleeding. He was failing, but he didn't give up, ignoring the soldiers closing in on him and the werefox. The blood seeped into his hands, shaking his head but making no reply.
'Lu Xun... don't let your enemies gain the upper hand... for one who is already as good as dead...'
"Sima Yi! Where's Sima Yi?" Lu Xun shouted, turning around and spotting a soldier coming straight for him. He froze, unable to grab his swords to counter it.
He was shocked to see the man fall to the ground suddenly, until he heard an angry voice, "Could you shout ANY louder, child?!"
Reinforcements had arrived already, the battle only persisting, as there seemed to be no justice or strategy behind this. Sima Yi had practically come out of nowhere, rather on purpose or by accident he fell upon them both, as if to protect them as the chaos ensued. Now, though, a wrathful Ma Chao found his way into the field, letting no one live from his deadly blade.
'Y-yi... chan?'
"Stay still... move you little insect! You're in the way!" Sima Yi growled, letting Lu Xun slip away as he looked at the cursed man below him, seeing his wound and nearly falling faint from all the blood.
'Be nice to the boy... he's... only trying to help...'
That did not alter Sima Yi's anger and fear, as he asked, "What do I do again?!"
"Hold him... and call his name three times..." Lu Xun responded, the blood on his hands not troubling him at all as he drew out his swords. "I shall make sure you have time to save him... but act quickly..."
Almost instantly a soldier tried to stop them, but Lu Xun cracked his skull open, instantly regretting striking his own soldier. He did not remorse for long, slitting the throat of another and two more before the other had fallen. Sima Yi wasted no time, hoping that they would have enough defense to heal Zhang He in time.
"Zhang He, Zhang He... Zhang He..."
They did not have the time to see if it worked, and the two Wei generals were practically thrown in the air as Xiahou Dun savagely attacked them. Sima Yi landed on his feet a few feet away, but lost sight of Zhang He in the chaos. The one-eyed general rushed towards him for the kill, but Lu Xun let out his leg, tripping him and catching his attention.
"Little rat... I should have known you had something up your sleeve..." Xiahou Dun growled, jumping back to his feet and knocking Lu Xun away when their swords met, the twin sabers hardly a match for his own scimitar. He went for the follow-up, aiming to remove his head.
He never got the chance, as Zhou Yu came from nowhere, his own blade meeting his opponent's as he snarled, "Leave him alone!"
"Still angry I see? More to say than that heartless devil then!" Smirking, Xiahou Dun accepted his challenge. "Have at it, then!"
"Angry? Oh... you underestimate the depth of my emotion. I've been angry; now I'm FURIOUS!"
The two clashed, flames practically dancing around them as they poured their heart and soul into this battle. There was one thing that Zhou Yu hated, and that was to be bested by ANYONE. He knew this beast was immortal, but he was going to make his ever living life complete hell, to pay back for all the pain he had caused.
"I'm glad now that I was not able to take Sun Ce... there is no possible way he could be so entertaining..." Xiahou Dun laughed, and, as he pushed Zhou Yu back, he barely caught the spear that attacked his flank and drove his foot into Zhao Yun's gut, sending him to his knees. "That's not very honorable of you... attacking my blind side!"
The man took a hissing breath, his green eyes on fire with hate, "You deserve no honor, demon!"
So now, Xiahou Dun fought the two warriors, fairing quite well and using his own sheer strength and luck to avoid their deadly blows. The battle was met on three fronts for him when Lu Xun leapt into the fray, joining for a jab but only getting his cape.
"All we need are Jiang Wei and Zhang He... and we'd have a rather nice family reunion..."
The question of those two hadn't occurred to anyone's minds, as Sima Yi had already found Zhang He, dragging him away from the battle and letting him rest his head in his lap. However, Jiang Wei had shortly arrived, staring at Zhuge Liang and gripping his spear. The two had stared at each other for the longest of times, and, with a bow, Zhuge Liang spoke to his pupil. "You've come to be rid of the traitor I see?"
"Don't... don't make this any harder on me. It was all I could do... to come and face you, to give you the swift, merciful death that I was not sure you would meet..." The younger man laughed, though there was no humor in the sound, "Even now... I worry about you, wanting to ease your path... pitiful fool I am..."
"This isn't like you to assume so much so early." Zhuge Liang smiled, trying to ease the young man's pain. "Do you actually think that I would betray my lord and my comrades, and you? I had my reasons, but I will not ask for you to hear them out. Do what you think is right."
"DAMN YOU!" Jiang Wei screamed, his speed surprising as he pressed the tip of his weapon to the man's throat, trembling and trying to contain his tears. "How DARE you try and make me feel guilty now?! I trusted you; I gave you my heart! Don't try to use that against me!"
And Zhuge Liang was willing to accept his fate, even if it was in his hands. He sighed, "Xiahou Dun will not live any longer... be sure to tell this to his cousin then."
"Why? Why won't you fight back? Are you that eager to die... to leave us all behind?"
"Not eager, but willing to pay for my treason."
The boy's trembling only increased, and with a strangled cry he withdrew the blade, hitting his knees as he sobbed, "I... I cannot do this... I thought I was stronger, but my heart has betrayed me... It steals my strength..."
Hesitant to go towards him, the wise strategist gave a sigh, kneeling down as well. "Would you think that I would betray you, then? Your heart never betrays anyone; of all people, you should know this."
"Then... why? Why did you risk Zhang He's life... and leave me to help this beast?"
"His life was never in any danger..." Zhuge Liang answered. "Because I know Sima Yi..."
"Sima Yi wants to kill you..." Jiang Wei replied. "It's best not to push your enemies into more anger."
"I have never asked you to trust me, as I do now. I knew the risks when I came down this path; the rewards will be worth the pain... I think even Zhang He, when he awakes, will agree."
As the chaos continued around them, Jiang Wei let his forehead touch the ground before his master, still trembling from his tears. "Forgive me, then, Prime Minister... for jumping to conclusions."
"Now who is playing with who's heart? Cry not..." Zhuge Liang handed him his sleeve to wipe his tears, and he helped the young man up and onto his feet. He hated to hurt him so, but that was over and done with, as he looked towards the battlefield. "It's almost time... I only regret that Xu Huang will suffer and the rift between us will grow."
Jiang Wei was left to puzzle those words alone, as the battle against Xiahou Dun raged so badly that no one was really paying the slightest attention. Zhou Yu scored a hit to the man's arm, watching the blood run down, and he growled, "I feel guilty for taking your head... with so many around that want it... but a little selfishness never hurt anyone..."
Ducking and dodging, the one-eyed general did not let down his guard for a second, only laughing more as he grabbed Lu Xun and threw him at Zhao Yun, berating them all the more. "For strategists you sure aren't well-prepared..."
"We don't need to be prepared; there is no way heaven will let you win..."
"Should I join them, then, Prime Minister?"
"Do what you wish; I free you..." Zhuge Liang stated, letting Jiang Wei leave before turning to Xu Huang, who sat apart from the others, cross-legged and lust for battle gone. Walking to him, he made sure to stay out of the axe's range, as he spoke softly, barely heard over the slaughtering in the background. "What will you do, then?"
"Is what you told me... the truth? Or what you told Dun?"
Xu Huang did not look at him, but his voice told all. "He only used you because you were strong. See for yourself now, that he does not need your strength as much as you hoped."
"If this is another trick, you truly WILL be the Sleeping Dragon..." Xu Huang growled, knowing Zhuge Liang well and knowing of his schemes. Still, he did not rise to fight, as they heard a shout and could see the Wrath of Heaven shine above the crowd, causing a cease to the fighting for a mere second. Cao Cao had arrived, and Xu Huang gasped, "He... he lives?!"
"Yes... and if you are lucky, he will take you back under his wing..."
Cao Cao's voice rang above all others, calling to his soldiers, "Traitorous dogs! You'd stoop this low and crawl on your belly for him?! This... this delusional creature that I ONCE called my blood, my family?!"
Liu Bei's voice rang out next, frigidly to his own soldiers, "You not only betray me, but the entire kingdom of Shu. You shall receive no mercy..."
It was such a change, to see soldiers around Xiahou Dun drop their weapons to the ground and bow before their lords, praying and begging for forgiveness. Seeing his advantage taken away, however, did not faze him too much. After all, he WAS immortal.
So he merely chuckled, his one-eye gleaming brightly, "Fine then! I shall take you all on! What have I to fear?"
Cao Cao would have engaged him, but Liu Bei kept him back, "His blood is not worth dirtying your sword! Leave him to the others to be handled."
Zhao Yun gave his lord a look, and his voice was warm, "Thank you for understanding, my lord..."
However, the pirate was eager for blood, as he jumped towards the fray now, "I say we pick him to pieces! He'll still be alive so that we can KICK his head!!!"
Zhou Yu sneered, "If that is the case, then we should crush it..."
Seeing himself surrounded, Xiahou Dun eyed them all, keeping his sword raised and mentally thanking them for the short break, as he panted slightly. He wasn't expecting things to go THIS bad, but he made no complaint, preparing to strike as he noticed Xu Huang's will to fight had all but depleted. Cocking his head, he asked, "Something wrong, Xu?"
The man said nothing, but he rose, stepping towards Cao Cao and hitting his knees instantly, tapping his forehead on the ground before him. "Forgive me, my Lord... it was not my intention to betray you."
"XU HUANG? WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!"
The man said nothing, staying in his position until Cao Cao replied, "Take him away for now... I'll decide his fate later."
Zhou Yu was taken aback by the expression of raw pain on Xiahou Dun's face, and he whispered, "By the Gods... you did love him, didn't you? A terrible beast like you... and still able to feel love..."
It was not only the pain of his betrayed heart, but now he was beginning to feel the effects of the werefox's blood circulating throughout his body. He trembled, as Xiahou Dun spoke with choked, rageful words, "I see now... the fruitless of this... damn! Damn you ALL then!"
Jiang Wei spoke softly, "You have no power to damn us... not anymore..."
The one-eyed general went to attack him, only to miss, and once again, the fighting continued. Fighting like a mad beast, Xiahou Dun proved more than a challenge, putting up a fight that no one, not even his cousin had seen before. He was vicious, ruthless, and deadly, a horrible combination as none of the warriors could even TOUCH him.
The sounds of this new battle caused Zhang He's eyes to flutter open, and he bolted up, only to be pushed down again. Not knowing who it was, he hissed, fighting, "No! Let me go!"
"Zhang He, you're too weak to fight right now and you've lost too much blood!" He heard Sima Yi shouted, and, seeing the worried face of the strategist, he now noticed he was cured, seeing his normal body once again.
"Yi-chan? I thought... I thought you were a dream..."
"A dream? You've lost too much blood and you're delusional," Sima Yi said with a smile, relieved to see him even awake now. Hearing the brutal fight continue, he sneered, wishing to grab his own broad sword and drive it through Xiahou Dun's throat. "He's alone but still he fits... how foolish..."
"I have to go... I have to help fight..."
He was pushed back down, refused by his superior in rank, "They can handle the situation by themselves, and let them die!"
It hurt Sima Yi so much to see the way those purple eyes, once so full of luster, looked up to him dully, "Yi-chan... they need us. I don't want... anyone else to die... except, of course, Xiahou Dun. Don't try to clip my wings..."
"I don't want you harmed... I refuse!"
"YOU DO NOT OWN ME ANYMORE!" Zhang He snapped, rising onto an elbow, "I am free to do as I like!"
Sima Yi was drawn into silence, releasing him and backing away instantly. He knew that Zhang He didn't mean all of what he said, but it hurt, still, as he refused him again. "Let me go then and I'll bring his head to you! You're too weak and in his fit of rage he WILL kill you and everyone who stand in his way!"
Tears shown in his love's eyes, as the exotic man whispered, "Why can't you understand? I don't want you hurt either! I don't want you to go off without me! My entire life... I've had to sit back, while someone protected me, saved me from some pain I'd encountered. I want to help... I NEED to help this time! I can't... sit back... and watch..."
And what was Sima Yi to do? He turned his back, giving a hiss, "If you die, I will kill myself and follow you wherever you go, to haunt you and say I told you so."
Embracing him, Zhang He rested his head on the other man's shoulder, and he spoke softly, "I'll make my insubordination up to you, after this is over... that's a promise..."
"Just go, before someone else gets the glory." Sima Yi growled, his hand clutching his sword, "And before I change my mind and pin you to the ground..."
"Oh behave!" Zhang He laughed, but it was a tired laugh, nowhere near the normal silver sound his love was used to. Kissing him gently on the cheek, Zhang He left without another word, only praying that he could be of some use in this battle.
By the time he arrived, it was a melee, and Cao Cao was practically stalking about outside the 'lines' of the battle, his vengeful Wrath of Heaven seeking to take Xiahou Dun's head if he dared trip out of the little fighting circle that was made. And the others fought valiantly, even Lu Xun showed such emotion into slaying this immortal man.
It was Zhao Yun who noticed him first, giving a cold smile, "You're late, Zhang He..."
"Fashionably late... but not late enough for revenge I see!"
Jiang Wei laughed, narrowly avoiding a strike to his chest, "No, but now you don't get the choice bits! The head's already claimed, as are most of the other limbs... not much selection, I'm afraid..."
"You can joke... at a time like this?" Lu Xun asked, not seeing the foot in time to stop the kick, and he fell backwards to avoid the blade now, hitting the ground and thankful saved by the pirate.
Zhou Yu observed this, and he frowned, knowing they needed to escape the rest. Finally, his course of action was to slash the one-eyed general across the cheek, sneering, "Ha! Catch me if you can, demon!"
Rather it worked on not was a mystery, but it was enough to drive his attention away from the fallen Lu Xun. When he felt the hilt of the scimitar smack against his head and send him flying into one of the trees, he figured the tactic had worked. Wincing, he rose, "Next time... I'll have to think this out better..."
Xiahou Dun leapt towards him, but Zhao Yun was there to intercept, catching the sword and knocking it away with ease. Somehow, his strength had fallen...
He moaned as a set of claws sank deep into his shoulder, and Zhang He hissed, "It looks as though immortality has not helped our former alpha very much at all, does it?"
Keeping silent, Xiahou Dun fought his way out, stumbling back and right into Jiang Wei's path, receiving the trident in his thigh when he miscalculated his jump. Something was wrong as many could clearly see...
Lu Xun's golden blades were the next to score his flesh, one in his chest and the other in his previously unwounded leg, and he hissed, "A wounded beast can still be dangerous... he may just be toying with us..."
"Toying... And waste my time with the likes of you?!" Xiahou Dun growled, trying to fight off the wounds but failing.
Zhao Yun's voice was terrible, as he rose, "No... you would not 'waste your time' with us now that we have the upper hand. Only when we were weak, crying, BEGGING for you to leave us alone would you deal with us. Night after terrifying night bending us to your will, but the time for revenge has come. And I for one am going to do something I should have done... a long time ago..."
And when he did this horrible act, time seemed to have stopped, and Lu Xun turned away, unable to stand the sight. Even Zhou Yu had to admit that it seemed to go a bit far, to pin the one-eyed general to the ground by thrusting the spear straight through his groin. However, the pain that shown on the man's face, as well as the slight squeak he gave was more than worth it...
Gan Ning has just arrived to see the scene, and he spoke up, being the first to comment, "Oh my God, that's personal!"
Zhang He did nothing but smirk, looking devilishly attractive at that moment, "Yes... it makes me wish I had thought to do it. Well done, Zhao Yun!"
Still, Lu Xun kept his head turned, saying nothing as Zhou Yu began to notice the paleness in Xiahou Dun's pained face, wondering if Zhuge Liang had certain reasons for allowing him to drink of the blood.
Even as he thought it, he heard the man's calm voice enter the area, "Finally. I am glad to see that my information was not incorrect in this... how do you feel now, Xiahou Dun?"
The one-eyed general gasped, staring at where the spear lay, though that seemed only a part of his problems. He could hardly SEE the spear, much less those around him. He spat, refusing to answer.
A cruel smile crossed the Sleeping Dragon's face, one that not even Zhou Yu had ever seen before, "I suspected as much. Dizzy spells? Lose of sight? That will not be the worst... oh no, not nearly the worst of what will happen to you..."
"Prime Minister, the blood... the blood wasn't the key to immortality?" Jiang Wei asked.
The quiet, sinister laugh he received in answer made the boy shiver, "Oh no, my little love... I would never have given this beast such a gift. No, from reading the same book where we found your cure, I found the price of drinking a werefox's blood. It gives you some increased strength, yes, but in just a small time... it consumes you. You feel more intense pain then you have ever felt before, and slowly, oh so slowly do you meet your death..."
"That's cruel..." Lu Xun muttered, though only Gan Ning could hear him. "But fitting..."
Hearing Xiahou Dun moan, Zhuge Liang's grin deepened, "Has it started now? The burning in your stomach? The ache in your heart? Do you feel as if your head is about to explode? The book was quite specific... I cannot wait to see you writhe in misery... and I will have no mercy on you! None! This is the price you pay for attacking the one I love, demon! You can beg for mercy all the way to the gates of HELL!"
"Damn you..." Xiahou Dun's breathing became labored, by nothing brought him peace now. "Cle-clever of you!"
"Oh, I cannot claim all the credit for this. Without Sima Yi, nothing would have been possible..."
Zhang He gave a sigh, crossing his clawed arms and shaking his head, "You tried to murder me, only to kill yourself. You betrayed your cousin, your kingdom, the ones who were with you, for this? What irony..."
Tasting the blood rise to his mouth, Xiahou Dun growled, "Be silent..."
Now Gan Ning joined in, sheathing his sword playfully and giving a triumphant laugh, "HA! I think this is better then carving your insides out... THAT would be showing mercy!"
Sun Ce, leaning against a tree, sneered, "And Zhou Yu can always take your head after your death..."
Trying to rise above the pain for one last fight, but failing, the ailing general gave a cry of pure frustration, berating those around him and himself for falling for such a trap. "Fate is CRUEL then I see! All this... for false immortality! Gods you have FOOLED me, and yet... even NOW... N-N-NO PITY?!"
There was one voice, one voice so soft that it was almost not heard, and would not have been had anyone else been speaking, "Please... end this. For my sake, if not for his..."
No one answered Xu Huang until Lu Xun spoke up, "By martial law, the traitor, though not of our clans, should be properly executed then. Nothing more needs to be said, is there?"
Sima Yi hissed, appearing from the shadows where he had been watching, "I did not risk my love's life to have his tormentor's punishment lessened!"
"He's suffered enough as it is." Lu Xun proclaimed, withdrawing from the fight and sheathing his swords. "However, I cannot speak for the others here... let them have whatever they want, but in my eyes, he has paid for his crimes against myself. I thank you, Zhuge Liang and Sima Yi... your combined genius is formidable..."
Jiang Wei, practically trembling, shaken from the cruelty of his Prime Minister, murmured, "I don't care... just kill him. Let him die and be gone from this earth."
Raising his sword, Zhou Yu asked, "So... any objections onto who gets the head?"
Zhang He shook his head, completely exhausted. He curled up at Sima Yi's feet, yawning slightly, "I'm too tired to care... and you have as much right to it as anyone, Zhou Yu. I only ask that you try not to get too much of the vile blood on you; red does become you, but not THAT much..."
So Zhou Yu looked towards the one most wronged, seeing his eyes of hatred burn brightly but making no objections. He got what he wanted and was pleased...
Not wanting to incur his wrath, he spoke softly, "You need to move back, Zhao Yun. I wouldn't want you to be covered in his blood either..."
Zhao Yun nodding, gripping his spear, giving it a twist, and removing his blade, though Xiahou Dun was unresponsive, his other illnesses overriding any other pain available. "I hope he misses and hacks away at your soul... it's not nearly as much as you deserve!"
Those green eyes were reaching a fever pitch, and Zhou Yu stepped forward, gently pushing the man back before he did something he regretted, "Go on, Zhao Yun. I can handle this..."
"Of course..." The man murmured, but it was not the gentle, timid speech that usually came from the man's lips. It was tense, and the grip on the spear tightened, "But I want to watch him suffer... to suffer as WE had to suffer! This isn't enough..."
"Zhao Yun!" Ma Chao's voice was distant, but they turned, as the voice got closer. "Did you find the bastard?!"
Even as Zhao Yun turned to respond, Zhou Yu placed a hand on his shoulder, whispering in his ear, "Look what you have before you... and forget all of this. You have someone who can love you, who can take your pain away. You do not need to become a demon... to destroy one..."
There was silence, before Zhao Yun's reply came, "You're right... it would be cruel of me, and hypocritical almost..."
"You have a beautiful soul, my friend, and a good heart. Even when we start fighting again, I will never forget that. So, go with your love, and be happy. It is all I can do for you now, the only way I can continue to protect you..."
Seeing him leave was a relief, and now, with no one in his way, Zhou Yu turned tot he task at hand, seeing the convulsing body of the demon lay at his feet now. It was a pity, as killing him would only free him from such pain...
He raised the blade, whispering, "Any last words?"
"T-tell... Xu Huang... th-that I did love him... will y-y-ou?!"
Damn, damn, DAMN! Of all the things that he could have possibly have said! Why did he ask him for the hardest to say?! Nodding, he swore, "I promise..."
And it was over. With one simple but deadly stroke of his blade, the traitor of Cao Cao and of Wei was slain, his head rolling a short distance before stopping, face first in the grass. All were silent, unable to find words either to celebrate or to mourn him. Xu Huang looked to the head and the body, his face like stone ready to crack. It was finally over...
Zhou Yu was the only one, other than Zhang He of course, who did not celebrate. Every muscle in his body was tense, and he smoldered quietly in his rage. He hated this...
To his right was this traitor, keeping his face hidden well behind that damned fan of his, and to his left, the quiet Xu Huang. And there, in front of him, going on with his damned speech, was the one-eyed general himself. The bastard...
He could not bear to hear him brag and talk on and on, so he walked away from the fires. The cheers of the excited crowd echoed behind him, and he hissed, walking towards where Zhang He was being held, "Stupid twits... as if he is going to share the immortality with them..."
The general was bound by chains, and he did not look up when Zhou Yu joined his side. He only looked towards the fire, waiting for the moon to rise and begin his curse.
"You don't have to go through with this, you know. You can break those chains and escape after you transform..."
Zhang He shook his head, a weak smile brightening his face ever so slightly, "Even so, what then? It's over... I cannot hurt the foolish innocents."
Zhou Yu sighed, "But we cannot simply allow this... power to fall into Xiahou Dun's hands! There has to be another way..."
"When you find one, then tell me..."
"I do not want you to be sacrificed for nothing! You do not have to fight; you can outrun anyone here. And I can keep them occupied long enough to allow you the time you will need... and if you can find Sima Yi and get cured, then there will be no possible way for them to get your blood..."
It was useless, as Zhang He refused, "They will not let that stop them... they will rather wage war then give up."
Zhou Yu whispered, "I do not want to kill you... but I will, if I cannot think of another way..."
When Zhang He looked at him, he could see Zhou Yu gripping his sword, but he did not beg for his life. Better to end this now before others could drink of the blood, and Zhou Yu raised his sword, preparing to slay him. "I'll give your body to Sima Yi and you will be rewarded with a decent funeral."
"Thank you... but do it quickly, before it is too late..."
The blade was almost there before Xu Huang knocked it cleanly out of his hands, and Xiahou Dun's speech died away as he turned to the scene, smiling as the Wu strategist was brought to the ground, Xu Huang's blade under his chin. Zhuge Liang said nothing, as Xiahou Dun approached them, withdrawing his own sword. "It's best for you to mind your own business..."
"My business is to see you burn in hell!"
Soldiers laughed, and Xiahou Dun kicked dirt towards Zhou Yu, his grin only deepening with his insanity, "Unfortunately you'll never get that chance... why don't you just play smart and give it up?"
He shivered in delight as those brown eyes burned with determination, "I will never cease fighting you, demon!"
This only made Xiahou Dun laugh, and he turned his attention away from him and towards Zhang He, who said nothing. The moon had risen, and it was time...
As soon as the silvery moonlight struck him, the change came, and within seconds those purple eyes, canine now, met his own, and that irresistible voice charmed everyone's ears, "I am sorry, Zhou Yu..."
"Yeah... me too..." Zhou Yu sneered, hating this feeling of uselessness...
Xiahou Dun only strode closer, running the dull side of his blade down the werefox's face, "It is a pity... to have to kill something so beautiful..."
It was Xu Huang who spoke up, "Get on with it, before the others come."
"Would you care for the honor, love?" Xiahou Dun grinned, turning his sword about and handed the end towards him. The general had his honor left, as he denied such a thing.
"I do not wish his death, Dun... that is your desire."
Before Xiahou Dun could say anything, Zhuge Liang's soft voice grabbed their attention. "I suggest you make the sacrifice as quickly as possible. They could arrive any minute from now."
"You heartless BASTARD! There is a special place in hell for traitors!" Zhou Yu bellowed, struggling against Xu Huang's superior strength. Zhuge Liang merely looked at him, saying nothing as Xiahou Dun fiddled with his blade, only taunting Zhang He.
The werefox did nothing, not even flinch, as the sword blade sliced his cheek, though he spoke softly, "Do not expect any reaction from me; I will not give you the pleasure..."
"Who said I'm doing this out of pleasure?"
"Do not think me a fool; I know the pain of others gives you pleasure... as does fear. I intend to give you neither." Zhang He replied in his silken voice, turning away to stare at the dazzling moon. "It's only a pity that your cousin was betrayed by one who's lost all means of reason... for this!"
Again the blade struck, directly above his eyes, and again he did nothing, merely waiting for death.
What stopped Xiahou Dun in the first place was a question, and Xu Huang sighed, "You don't have to toy with him; he's willing to go down with his honor."
"We need not kill him just yet... let's test this theory of ours first..." The one-eyed general replied, leaning forward to lick the blood trickling down the dark fur. "These cuts should suffice at first... before the final blow..."
This seemed to please the soldiers, but Zhuge Liang highly protested against it. "One lick will not be enough, I'm afraid."
"Whoever said... I was going to only have one lick? He is, as always, delicious..."
Zhou Yu growled, "Okay, you had your lick! Now what?!"
"You need to learn to hold your tongue..."
That was a comment not a lot cared to hear, but Zhang He only sighed, only wishing for his torment to end soon. He sniffled, to try to hide his tears, but his nose caught the scent of something, someone, familiar. And whoever they were coming... fast.
"You sense something, puppy?"
Not wishing to give away the newcomer's presence, Zhang He lied, even though now he could clearly see the dust rising over the trees. "No... only death."
"I'll make it quick for you, my beauty..." Xiahou Dun promised, pressing the blade to that ebony throat, "You will hardly feel the blade..."
Zhou Yu only struggled more, and Xiahou Dun seemed ready to complete the task to please the cheering soldiers, when the cries of a horse caught their ears. They were suspecting Ma Chao, as he was skilled with the horse, or Lu Meng, but they didn't expect to see Lu Xun ride towards them, breaking through the bushes and cutting short a few feet from the one eyed general. Immediately, the soldiers raised their swords and spears, but they did not move.
The boy raised one of his golden blades, his voice as soft as it was serious, "Release him now... this has gone on long enough..."
Standing at the ready, Xu Huang awaited orders, as Xiahou Dun eyed him strangely. "Surely you're not alone... that would be foolish of you then."
"I find my wisdom deserts me, where you are concerned..." Lu Xun replied, and to Zhou Yu's surprise, the youth dropped his weapons to the ground and held his hands to his front, as if waiting to be bound. With the way he spoke, it was hard to tell if this was a ruse or not, as he bowed his head. "What use is wisdom if one hasn't the years behind him, nor the will or heart to find it?"
Zhuge Liang was still suspicious, and it showed in his words, "You have not the will nor the heart to find wisdom... but courage you have aplenty?"
The horse stepped up a few steps, as Lu Xun kept silent, only keeping his eyes directed towards the enemy, to avoid all other glances. Zhou Yu sneered, "You're... you're surrendering?"
"No... I'm going to kill this man who has caused us all so much pain... before it is too late to do so..."
Xiahou Dun laughed, removing his weapon from Zhang He's grasp and turning the tip upon Lu Xun now. The boy did not flinch, but his eyes were that of someone pained. "Why are you alone?"
"Because if I am too late, then you are not worth the death of anyone else..." Lu Xun said as his horse, fearful of the blade, gave a slight jerk. Zhou Yu figured he was there as a distraction, but where were the others? Surely Lu Xun wasn't that stupid to come alone, unless something truly provoked him to do so. "Whenever you are ready."
"Always so cold... do you even HAVE a heart in there, little one?" Xiahou Dun asked, directing the tip of the blade to the boy's chest.
That wasn't what Lu Xun wanted to hear, as he tried so very hard to deny any emotions. He failed as his eyes showed his slight anger in those words, as Zhuge Liang addressed Xiahou Dun. "The others will come. Kill him now before he causes any trouble."
Zhou Yu howled, still struggling to become free, "YOU TOUCH HIM AND I'LL FEED YOU TO THE BIRDS!"
"Such threats don't help," Xiahou Dun simply said, nipping Lu Xun's chest and taking a bit of material with his blade. The youth flinched, but nothing more as his hand wandered to touch it. "Besides, he hasn't a heart, so I could stab him there and he'd still keep that look upon his face."
"Don't... touch... me..."
There was laughter that rose as Xiahou Dun merely mocked him, failing to see Lu Xun's plan working as Lu Meng, Gan Ning, and several soldiers snuck about around them, preparing their fire arrows. "So there IS a heart somewhere in there. Thought the effects of the curse ate it away, but I see that you can still witness pain and anger. No love though, that's a fact."
"None for you..." Lu Xun said, his horse giving a stomp and rattling its head, not liking the situation any more than he did. He didn't know why he agreed to this, but nevertheless, he tried his best. "If it satisfies you and others, I do have a want for revenge."
"Well THAT is certainly a relief..."
As Zhou Yu's struggles increased, Gan Ning took his position, aiming his arrow at Xu Huang's heart. Something irked him, but hearing Lu Xun's reply was enough to reinforce his target. "Enough of talk... will you or will you not face me?"
"As much as I am tempted... I have a task at hand to finish..."
Returning the blade to the original target, Xiahou Dun shrugged. "After I am immortal then you can have your pleasant death. Or... I could allow you to live forever in your heartless, emotionless state, since feeling true pain is impossible for one as focused as you."
"You could not force that cursed blood down my throat..." Lu Xun simply stated, and as Xiahou Dun was ready to spill the blood, Lu Xun spoke up again, against Zhuge Liang's wishes. "Besides... that blood will not grant you immortality. That is such a foolish thing to do..."
"Then you have confirmed that is a wise thing, since a logical person such as yourself would say the opposite of what is true to their enemy..." Zhuge Liang countered, giving Lu Xun an almost deadly gaze. It was a mistake for Lu Xun, as the Sleeping Dragon's eye caught Lu Meng's halberd. However, he said nothing, merely stalling time. "I assure you, Xiahou Dun, that his blood will grant what you desire."
"Then... let us waste no more time..."
Gan Ning pulled back the bow's string, glaring at Xu Huang and merely waiting for the signal. All Lu Xun had to do was dismount, but what was holding him?
As if in answer, Lu Xun spoke quietly before swinging off the horse to hit the ground, "May these fires only be the first of many you see..."
That was it, but it seemed already too late. The blood splashed about when the blade slit the throat, and Gan Ning's arrow flew, its target completely unaware of the blow. The chaos had begun, as Lu Meng and his men gave a fierce shout before revealing themselves.
Zhou Yu threw Xu Huang off, staring blatantly as the blood formed a pool beneath the still living werefox, and he felt tears prick his eyes, "No..."
The soldiers were caught unaware, but they fought against the incoming forces, practically creating a barrier around Xiahou Dun and the bleeding Zhang He. Lu Xun. grasping his swords, was the first to throw himself at the one eyed general, only catching his blade within his own before being overpowered and thrown away.
Zhou Yu tried not to flinch as Xiahou Dun knelt before the bound werefox, placing his lips to his throat. The general drank deeply, allowing the hot, ruby liquid to slide down his throat, until he took his blood-stained lips away. Staring deep into those fading amethyst eyes, he purred, "Like wine..."
Zhang He said nothing, his eyes still staring upon the moon. He could see Lu Meng, Lu Xun, and Gan Ning, but not his Sima Yi.
The one-eyed general laughed, "No... your love is not here to save you..."
"Not yet..." Lu Xun sneered, standing back and not engaging at all. He pointed his blade to Xiahou Dun, who wiped the blood away from his lips amongst the battle. "But he will come, as well as Cao Cao and the entire armed forces... even if you do become immortal, you will live everyday in your life in pain..."
"To see the look on Sima Yi's face... as he cradles the corpse in his arms... will be worth it..."
Gan Ning was disappointed to see his arrow miss, and, withdrawing his sword, he charged Xu Huang alone, angered to see his sword ricocheted from the axe's superior blade. He was going to make Xiahou Dun fell the pain of losing a loved one by his life alone...
It was hardly a surprise when Zhuge Liang tried to stop him, his voice as smooth as ever, "No... leave him be, pirate. His pain will be great... soon enough..."
"Shut up and die quietly, okay?" Gan Ning turned about, nearly taking the strategist's head with the deadly blow. "Pirates don't take kindly to traitors!"
"Let him live... to see his love die..."
The pirate did not care, turning back to Xu Huang and continuing his attack, releasing his fury upon the man. He was too blinded to see Xu Huang's anguish, but he didn't care. As long as he got his revenge!
Xiahou Dun was getting a different kind of revenge, taunting the dying Zhang He even as he battled Lu Xun, "Has your life passed before your eyes yet, my beauty? Or is the black just crawling upon you? It won't be long now... before those gorgeous purple eyes of yours are perfectly clear, sightless... dead..."
"Si... Sima Yi..." Tears lit those eyes, but nothing more.
"No, my darling... no 'Yi-chan' to save you this time. No one to watch you die... except for me..."
Lu Xun gave a scream, almost taking him completely by surprise. Barely dodging the blades, Xiahou Dun caught him, grabbing him by the scruff of his shirt and, with a grunt, hurled him aside, not caring where he fell. He turned his attention back tot he dying werefox, grinning as he began to feel the effects of the blood running through his body.
He walked over to Zhang He, kissing his forehead gently, as all the poor, dying man could do was whimper, "Thank you... I feel wonderful thanks to you..."
"B-bastard..." Zhang He choked, glaring at him with those sparkling violet eyes, and, spitting blood at his boot, he looked away, to accept his fate. "May... may your et-eternal life-be-in...Hell!"
"I am tempted to drink more of your sweet blood until your heart stops... but I think it would be mostly a waste of energy," Xiahou Dun chuckled, leaning forward to purr in the werefox's ear. "Farewell..."
As the battle raged on around them, the one eyed general kicked the werefox off of the rock, turning away and raising his bloody sword to catch everyone's attention. "Drink your fill; there is only one were-beast to go around!"
In an instant the men gathered around him, almost knocking each other over to be the first one there. To the poor Zhang He, who was beginning to feel blackness claw at the corners of his eyes, the jeering crowds of men prompted a memory of another time, and he buried his head into the bloody grass, praying that his death would come soon...
However, hearing several cries raised his head, seeing Zhou Yu's fierce blade slicing through them as he threw himself upon the mob, accompanied by Gan Ning and Lu Meng's. It was a vicious free-for all, one that he would never see...
Somehow, it made him glad to see that there were people willing to try and save him, despite the fact that they were enemies in the past and would undoubtedly have been enemies again if he had been granted the chance to live. Zhang He closed his eyes, ready to succumb to the seductive touch of death. 'Yi-chan... I'm sorry... to have been forced to leave you...'
He felt hands, and he looked into Lu Xun's bright, golden eyes. The boy seemed frightened and near panic, as he spoke aloud to himself as he tried to cover the wound with his own hands. "What to do... what to do?"
Though it took so much effort, Zhang He was rewarded by being able to whisper into the boy's mind, 'It is okay... little one. There is nothing... you can do for me now...'
Still, he tore the straps from his pants, letting it turn bright red as he tried to stop the bleeding. He was failing, but he didn't give up, ignoring the soldiers closing in on him and the werefox. The blood seeped into his hands, shaking his head but making no reply.
'Lu Xun... don't let your enemies gain the upper hand... for one who is already as good as dead...'
"Sima Yi! Where's Sima Yi?" Lu Xun shouted, turning around and spotting a soldier coming straight for him. He froze, unable to grab his swords to counter it.
He was shocked to see the man fall to the ground suddenly, until he heard an angry voice, "Could you shout ANY louder, child?!"
Reinforcements had arrived already, the battle only persisting, as there seemed to be no justice or strategy behind this. Sima Yi had practically come out of nowhere, rather on purpose or by accident he fell upon them both, as if to protect them as the chaos ensued. Now, though, a wrathful Ma Chao found his way into the field, letting no one live from his deadly blade.
'Y-yi... chan?'
"Stay still... move you little insect! You're in the way!" Sima Yi growled, letting Lu Xun slip away as he looked at the cursed man below him, seeing his wound and nearly falling faint from all the blood.
'Be nice to the boy... he's... only trying to help...'
That did not alter Sima Yi's anger and fear, as he asked, "What do I do again?!"
"Hold him... and call his name three times..." Lu Xun responded, the blood on his hands not troubling him at all as he drew out his swords. "I shall make sure you have time to save him... but act quickly..."
Almost instantly a soldier tried to stop them, but Lu Xun cracked his skull open, instantly regretting striking his own soldier. He did not remorse for long, slitting the throat of another and two more before the other had fallen. Sima Yi wasted no time, hoping that they would have enough defense to heal Zhang He in time.
"Zhang He, Zhang He... Zhang He..."
They did not have the time to see if it worked, and the two Wei generals were practically thrown in the air as Xiahou Dun savagely attacked them. Sima Yi landed on his feet a few feet away, but lost sight of Zhang He in the chaos. The one-eyed general rushed towards him for the kill, but Lu Xun let out his leg, tripping him and catching his attention.
"Little rat... I should have known you had something up your sleeve..." Xiahou Dun growled, jumping back to his feet and knocking Lu Xun away when their swords met, the twin sabers hardly a match for his own scimitar. He went for the follow-up, aiming to remove his head.
He never got the chance, as Zhou Yu came from nowhere, his own blade meeting his opponent's as he snarled, "Leave him alone!"
"Still angry I see? More to say than that heartless devil then!" Smirking, Xiahou Dun accepted his challenge. "Have at it, then!"
"Angry? Oh... you underestimate the depth of my emotion. I've been angry; now I'm FURIOUS!"
The two clashed, flames practically dancing around them as they poured their heart and soul into this battle. There was one thing that Zhou Yu hated, and that was to be bested by ANYONE. He knew this beast was immortal, but he was going to make his ever living life complete hell, to pay back for all the pain he had caused.
"I'm glad now that I was not able to take Sun Ce... there is no possible way he could be so entertaining..." Xiahou Dun laughed, and, as he pushed Zhou Yu back, he barely caught the spear that attacked his flank and drove his foot into Zhao Yun's gut, sending him to his knees. "That's not very honorable of you... attacking my blind side!"
The man took a hissing breath, his green eyes on fire with hate, "You deserve no honor, demon!"
So now, Xiahou Dun fought the two warriors, fairing quite well and using his own sheer strength and luck to avoid their deadly blows. The battle was met on three fronts for him when Lu Xun leapt into the fray, joining for a jab but only getting his cape.
"All we need are Jiang Wei and Zhang He... and we'd have a rather nice family reunion..."
The question of those two hadn't occurred to anyone's minds, as Sima Yi had already found Zhang He, dragging him away from the battle and letting him rest his head in his lap. However, Jiang Wei had shortly arrived, staring at Zhuge Liang and gripping his spear. The two had stared at each other for the longest of times, and, with a bow, Zhuge Liang spoke to his pupil. "You've come to be rid of the traitor I see?"
"Don't... don't make this any harder on me. It was all I could do... to come and face you, to give you the swift, merciful death that I was not sure you would meet..." The younger man laughed, though there was no humor in the sound, "Even now... I worry about you, wanting to ease your path... pitiful fool I am..."
"This isn't like you to assume so much so early." Zhuge Liang smiled, trying to ease the young man's pain. "Do you actually think that I would betray my lord and my comrades, and you? I had my reasons, but I will not ask for you to hear them out. Do what you think is right."
"DAMN YOU!" Jiang Wei screamed, his speed surprising as he pressed the tip of his weapon to the man's throat, trembling and trying to contain his tears. "How DARE you try and make me feel guilty now?! I trusted you; I gave you my heart! Don't try to use that against me!"
And Zhuge Liang was willing to accept his fate, even if it was in his hands. He sighed, "Xiahou Dun will not live any longer... be sure to tell this to his cousin then."
"Why? Why won't you fight back? Are you that eager to die... to leave us all behind?"
"Not eager, but willing to pay for my treason."
The boy's trembling only increased, and with a strangled cry he withdrew the blade, hitting his knees as he sobbed, "I... I cannot do this... I thought I was stronger, but my heart has betrayed me... It steals my strength..."
Hesitant to go towards him, the wise strategist gave a sigh, kneeling down as well. "Would you think that I would betray you, then? Your heart never betrays anyone; of all people, you should know this."
"Then... why? Why did you risk Zhang He's life... and leave me to help this beast?"
"His life was never in any danger..." Zhuge Liang answered. "Because I know Sima Yi..."
"Sima Yi wants to kill you..." Jiang Wei replied. "It's best not to push your enemies into more anger."
"I have never asked you to trust me, as I do now. I knew the risks when I came down this path; the rewards will be worth the pain... I think even Zhang He, when he awakes, will agree."
As the chaos continued around them, Jiang Wei let his forehead touch the ground before his master, still trembling from his tears. "Forgive me, then, Prime Minister... for jumping to conclusions."
"Now who is playing with who's heart? Cry not..." Zhuge Liang handed him his sleeve to wipe his tears, and he helped the young man up and onto his feet. He hated to hurt him so, but that was over and done with, as he looked towards the battlefield. "It's almost time... I only regret that Xu Huang will suffer and the rift between us will grow."
Jiang Wei was left to puzzle those words alone, as the battle against Xiahou Dun raged so badly that no one was really paying the slightest attention. Zhou Yu scored a hit to the man's arm, watching the blood run down, and he growled, "I feel guilty for taking your head... with so many around that want it... but a little selfishness never hurt anyone..."
Ducking and dodging, the one-eyed general did not let down his guard for a second, only laughing more as he grabbed Lu Xun and threw him at Zhao Yun, berating them all the more. "For strategists you sure aren't well-prepared..."
"We don't need to be prepared; there is no way heaven will let you win..."
"Should I join them, then, Prime Minister?"
"Do what you wish; I free you..." Zhuge Liang stated, letting Jiang Wei leave before turning to Xu Huang, who sat apart from the others, cross-legged and lust for battle gone. Walking to him, he made sure to stay out of the axe's range, as he spoke softly, barely heard over the slaughtering in the background. "What will you do, then?"
"Is what you told me... the truth? Or what you told Dun?"
Xu Huang did not look at him, but his voice told all. "He only used you because you were strong. See for yourself now, that he does not need your strength as much as you hoped."
"If this is another trick, you truly WILL be the Sleeping Dragon..." Xu Huang growled, knowing Zhuge Liang well and knowing of his schemes. Still, he did not rise to fight, as they heard a shout and could see the Wrath of Heaven shine above the crowd, causing a cease to the fighting for a mere second. Cao Cao had arrived, and Xu Huang gasped, "He... he lives?!"
"Yes... and if you are lucky, he will take you back under his wing..."
Cao Cao's voice rang above all others, calling to his soldiers, "Traitorous dogs! You'd stoop this low and crawl on your belly for him?! This... this delusional creature that I ONCE called my blood, my family?!"
Liu Bei's voice rang out next, frigidly to his own soldiers, "You not only betray me, but the entire kingdom of Shu. You shall receive no mercy..."
It was such a change, to see soldiers around Xiahou Dun drop their weapons to the ground and bow before their lords, praying and begging for forgiveness. Seeing his advantage taken away, however, did not faze him too much. After all, he WAS immortal.
So he merely chuckled, his one-eye gleaming brightly, "Fine then! I shall take you all on! What have I to fear?"
Cao Cao would have engaged him, but Liu Bei kept him back, "His blood is not worth dirtying your sword! Leave him to the others to be handled."
Zhao Yun gave his lord a look, and his voice was warm, "Thank you for understanding, my lord..."
However, the pirate was eager for blood, as he jumped towards the fray now, "I say we pick him to pieces! He'll still be alive so that we can KICK his head!!!"
Zhou Yu sneered, "If that is the case, then we should crush it..."
Seeing himself surrounded, Xiahou Dun eyed them all, keeping his sword raised and mentally thanking them for the short break, as he panted slightly. He wasn't expecting things to go THIS bad, but he made no complaint, preparing to strike as he noticed Xu Huang's will to fight had all but depleted. Cocking his head, he asked, "Something wrong, Xu?"
The man said nothing, but he rose, stepping towards Cao Cao and hitting his knees instantly, tapping his forehead on the ground before him. "Forgive me, my Lord... it was not my intention to betray you."
"XU HUANG? WHAT ARE YOU DOING?!"
The man said nothing, staying in his position until Cao Cao replied, "Take him away for now... I'll decide his fate later."
Zhou Yu was taken aback by the expression of raw pain on Xiahou Dun's face, and he whispered, "By the Gods... you did love him, didn't you? A terrible beast like you... and still able to feel love..."
It was not only the pain of his betrayed heart, but now he was beginning to feel the effects of the werefox's blood circulating throughout his body. He trembled, as Xiahou Dun spoke with choked, rageful words, "I see now... the fruitless of this... damn! Damn you ALL then!"
Jiang Wei spoke softly, "You have no power to damn us... not anymore..."
The one-eyed general went to attack him, only to miss, and once again, the fighting continued. Fighting like a mad beast, Xiahou Dun proved more than a challenge, putting up a fight that no one, not even his cousin had seen before. He was vicious, ruthless, and deadly, a horrible combination as none of the warriors could even TOUCH him.
The sounds of this new battle caused Zhang He's eyes to flutter open, and he bolted up, only to be pushed down again. Not knowing who it was, he hissed, fighting, "No! Let me go!"
"Zhang He, you're too weak to fight right now and you've lost too much blood!" He heard Sima Yi shouted, and, seeing the worried face of the strategist, he now noticed he was cured, seeing his normal body once again.
"Yi-chan? I thought... I thought you were a dream..."
"A dream? You've lost too much blood and you're delusional," Sima Yi said with a smile, relieved to see him even awake now. Hearing the brutal fight continue, he sneered, wishing to grab his own broad sword and drive it through Xiahou Dun's throat. "He's alone but still he fits... how foolish..."
"I have to go... I have to help fight..."
He was pushed back down, refused by his superior in rank, "They can handle the situation by themselves, and let them die!"
It hurt Sima Yi so much to see the way those purple eyes, once so full of luster, looked up to him dully, "Yi-chan... they need us. I don't want... anyone else to die... except, of course, Xiahou Dun. Don't try to clip my wings..."
"I don't want you harmed... I refuse!"
"YOU DO NOT OWN ME ANYMORE!" Zhang He snapped, rising onto an elbow, "I am free to do as I like!"
Sima Yi was drawn into silence, releasing him and backing away instantly. He knew that Zhang He didn't mean all of what he said, but it hurt, still, as he refused him again. "Let me go then and I'll bring his head to you! You're too weak and in his fit of rage he WILL kill you and everyone who stand in his way!"
Tears shown in his love's eyes, as the exotic man whispered, "Why can't you understand? I don't want you hurt either! I don't want you to go off without me! My entire life... I've had to sit back, while someone protected me, saved me from some pain I'd encountered. I want to help... I NEED to help this time! I can't... sit back... and watch..."
And what was Sima Yi to do? He turned his back, giving a hiss, "If you die, I will kill myself and follow you wherever you go, to haunt you and say I told you so."
Embracing him, Zhang He rested his head on the other man's shoulder, and he spoke softly, "I'll make my insubordination up to you, after this is over... that's a promise..."
"Just go, before someone else gets the glory." Sima Yi growled, his hand clutching his sword, "And before I change my mind and pin you to the ground..."
"Oh behave!" Zhang He laughed, but it was a tired laugh, nowhere near the normal silver sound his love was used to. Kissing him gently on the cheek, Zhang He left without another word, only praying that he could be of some use in this battle.
By the time he arrived, it was a melee, and Cao Cao was practically stalking about outside the 'lines' of the battle, his vengeful Wrath of Heaven seeking to take Xiahou Dun's head if he dared trip out of the little fighting circle that was made. And the others fought valiantly, even Lu Xun showed such emotion into slaying this immortal man.
It was Zhao Yun who noticed him first, giving a cold smile, "You're late, Zhang He..."
"Fashionably late... but not late enough for revenge I see!"
Jiang Wei laughed, narrowly avoiding a strike to his chest, "No, but now you don't get the choice bits! The head's already claimed, as are most of the other limbs... not much selection, I'm afraid..."
"You can joke... at a time like this?" Lu Xun asked, not seeing the foot in time to stop the kick, and he fell backwards to avoid the blade now, hitting the ground and thankful saved by the pirate.
Zhou Yu observed this, and he frowned, knowing they needed to escape the rest. Finally, his course of action was to slash the one-eyed general across the cheek, sneering, "Ha! Catch me if you can, demon!"
Rather it worked on not was a mystery, but it was enough to drive his attention away from the fallen Lu Xun. When he felt the hilt of the scimitar smack against his head and send him flying into one of the trees, he figured the tactic had worked. Wincing, he rose, "Next time... I'll have to think this out better..."
Xiahou Dun leapt towards him, but Zhao Yun was there to intercept, catching the sword and knocking it away with ease. Somehow, his strength had fallen...
He moaned as a set of claws sank deep into his shoulder, and Zhang He hissed, "It looks as though immortality has not helped our former alpha very much at all, does it?"
Keeping silent, Xiahou Dun fought his way out, stumbling back and right into Jiang Wei's path, receiving the trident in his thigh when he miscalculated his jump. Something was wrong as many could clearly see...
Lu Xun's golden blades were the next to score his flesh, one in his chest and the other in his previously unwounded leg, and he hissed, "A wounded beast can still be dangerous... he may just be toying with us..."
"Toying... And waste my time with the likes of you?!" Xiahou Dun growled, trying to fight off the wounds but failing.
Zhao Yun's voice was terrible, as he rose, "No... you would not 'waste your time' with us now that we have the upper hand. Only when we were weak, crying, BEGGING for you to leave us alone would you deal with us. Night after terrifying night bending us to your will, but the time for revenge has come. And I for one am going to do something I should have done... a long time ago..."
And when he did this horrible act, time seemed to have stopped, and Lu Xun turned away, unable to stand the sight. Even Zhou Yu had to admit that it seemed to go a bit far, to pin the one-eyed general to the ground by thrusting the spear straight through his groin. However, the pain that shown on the man's face, as well as the slight squeak he gave was more than worth it...
Gan Ning has just arrived to see the scene, and he spoke up, being the first to comment, "Oh my God, that's personal!"
Zhang He did nothing but smirk, looking devilishly attractive at that moment, "Yes... it makes me wish I had thought to do it. Well done, Zhao Yun!"
Still, Lu Xun kept his head turned, saying nothing as Zhou Yu began to notice the paleness in Xiahou Dun's pained face, wondering if Zhuge Liang had certain reasons for allowing him to drink of the blood.
Even as he thought it, he heard the man's calm voice enter the area, "Finally. I am glad to see that my information was not incorrect in this... how do you feel now, Xiahou Dun?"
The one-eyed general gasped, staring at where the spear lay, though that seemed only a part of his problems. He could hardly SEE the spear, much less those around him. He spat, refusing to answer.
A cruel smile crossed the Sleeping Dragon's face, one that not even Zhou Yu had ever seen before, "I suspected as much. Dizzy spells? Lose of sight? That will not be the worst... oh no, not nearly the worst of what will happen to you..."
"Prime Minister, the blood... the blood wasn't the key to immortality?" Jiang Wei asked.
The quiet, sinister laugh he received in answer made the boy shiver, "Oh no, my little love... I would never have given this beast such a gift. No, from reading the same book where we found your cure, I found the price of drinking a werefox's blood. It gives you some increased strength, yes, but in just a small time... it consumes you. You feel more intense pain then you have ever felt before, and slowly, oh so slowly do you meet your death..."
"That's cruel..." Lu Xun muttered, though only Gan Ning could hear him. "But fitting..."
Hearing Xiahou Dun moan, Zhuge Liang's grin deepened, "Has it started now? The burning in your stomach? The ache in your heart? Do you feel as if your head is about to explode? The book was quite specific... I cannot wait to see you writhe in misery... and I will have no mercy on you! None! This is the price you pay for attacking the one I love, demon! You can beg for mercy all the way to the gates of HELL!"
"Damn you..." Xiahou Dun's breathing became labored, by nothing brought him peace now. "Cle-clever of you!"
"Oh, I cannot claim all the credit for this. Without Sima Yi, nothing would have been possible..."
Zhang He gave a sigh, crossing his clawed arms and shaking his head, "You tried to murder me, only to kill yourself. You betrayed your cousin, your kingdom, the ones who were with you, for this? What irony..."
Tasting the blood rise to his mouth, Xiahou Dun growled, "Be silent..."
Now Gan Ning joined in, sheathing his sword playfully and giving a triumphant laugh, "HA! I think this is better then carving your insides out... THAT would be showing mercy!"
Sun Ce, leaning against a tree, sneered, "And Zhou Yu can always take your head after your death..."
Trying to rise above the pain for one last fight, but failing, the ailing general gave a cry of pure frustration, berating those around him and himself for falling for such a trap. "Fate is CRUEL then I see! All this... for false immortality! Gods you have FOOLED me, and yet... even NOW... N-N-NO PITY?!"
There was one voice, one voice so soft that it was almost not heard, and would not have been had anyone else been speaking, "Please... end this. For my sake, if not for his..."
No one answered Xu Huang until Lu Xun spoke up, "By martial law, the traitor, though not of our clans, should be properly executed then. Nothing more needs to be said, is there?"
Sima Yi hissed, appearing from the shadows where he had been watching, "I did not risk my love's life to have his tormentor's punishment lessened!"
"He's suffered enough as it is." Lu Xun proclaimed, withdrawing from the fight and sheathing his swords. "However, I cannot speak for the others here... let them have whatever they want, but in my eyes, he has paid for his crimes against myself. I thank you, Zhuge Liang and Sima Yi... your combined genius is formidable..."
Jiang Wei, practically trembling, shaken from the cruelty of his Prime Minister, murmured, "I don't care... just kill him. Let him die and be gone from this earth."
Raising his sword, Zhou Yu asked, "So... any objections onto who gets the head?"
Zhang He shook his head, completely exhausted. He curled up at Sima Yi's feet, yawning slightly, "I'm too tired to care... and you have as much right to it as anyone, Zhou Yu. I only ask that you try not to get too much of the vile blood on you; red does become you, but not THAT much..."
So Zhou Yu looked towards the one most wronged, seeing his eyes of hatred burn brightly but making no objections. He got what he wanted and was pleased...
Not wanting to incur his wrath, he spoke softly, "You need to move back, Zhao Yun. I wouldn't want you to be covered in his blood either..."
Zhao Yun nodding, gripping his spear, giving it a twist, and removing his blade, though Xiahou Dun was unresponsive, his other illnesses overriding any other pain available. "I hope he misses and hacks away at your soul... it's not nearly as much as you deserve!"
Those green eyes were reaching a fever pitch, and Zhou Yu stepped forward, gently pushing the man back before he did something he regretted, "Go on, Zhao Yun. I can handle this..."
"Of course..." The man murmured, but it was not the gentle, timid speech that usually came from the man's lips. It was tense, and the grip on the spear tightened, "But I want to watch him suffer... to suffer as WE had to suffer! This isn't enough..."
"Zhao Yun!" Ma Chao's voice was distant, but they turned, as the voice got closer. "Did you find the bastard?!"
Even as Zhao Yun turned to respond, Zhou Yu placed a hand on his shoulder, whispering in his ear, "Look what you have before you... and forget all of this. You have someone who can love you, who can take your pain away. You do not need to become a demon... to destroy one..."
There was silence, before Zhao Yun's reply came, "You're right... it would be cruel of me, and hypocritical almost..."
"You have a beautiful soul, my friend, and a good heart. Even when we start fighting again, I will never forget that. So, go with your love, and be happy. It is all I can do for you now, the only way I can continue to protect you..."
Seeing him leave was a relief, and now, with no one in his way, Zhou Yu turned tot he task at hand, seeing the convulsing body of the demon lay at his feet now. It was a pity, as killing him would only free him from such pain...
He raised the blade, whispering, "Any last words?"
"T-tell... Xu Huang... th-that I did love him... will y-y-ou?!"
Damn, damn, DAMN! Of all the things that he could have possibly have said! Why did he ask him for the hardest to say?! Nodding, he swore, "I promise..."
And it was over. With one simple but deadly stroke of his blade, the traitor of Cao Cao and of Wei was slain, his head rolling a short distance before stopping, face first in the grass. All were silent, unable to find words either to celebrate or to mourn him. Xu Huang looked to the head and the body, his face like stone ready to crack. It was finally over...