Bring Me to Life
By Gingivere the Shadowreaver
~*~*~*~
Chapter Nine
~*~*~*~
The night ahead of them proved to be a challenge, as they realized they were too late for many of the villagers. It started with one body, then another, and Zhou Yu felt the last of his strength begin to die away, collapsing to the ground next to one of the bodies of a dead woman. "Too late... dammit... we were too late..."
Zhao Yun stopped a few feet ahead of him, gasping for breath as he took a body count. So far, there were ten of them, mostly women and elders, and one child. He shouted to his soldiers, "Quickly, find any survivors, and someone find Lord Lu Jun!"
They quickly obeyed, and the Little Dragon went to check on the exhausted Zhou Yu, seeing tears wanting to fall down his dirty face. He did not blame the man if he cried, for the past few days were challenging for all of them. He asked, "Do you think this is a safe place to rest?"
Angry, tired, and defeated, the Wu strategist replied, "No... a little bit more inside the woods is safer. Horses can't go through there easily, and I'm not sure if they have returned to Wujun yet..."
"Right... can you stand on your own or would you rather eat dirt?"
"Give me time... where's Lu Jun?"
Zhao Yun shrugged, "I lost track of him a long time ago... fast devil, he is. I'm guessing the bloodwrath was upon him again. The fool will be killed..."
"Then we need to stop him..." Zhou Yu willed himself to stand, nearly collapsing completely, but luckily the Shu officer was there to catch him. This man had no more strength left, he feared, and he sighed, knowing he was so close to just wanting to collapse as well.
"Try to rest... I'll search for him."
All Zhou Yu did was nod, and a soldier aided his general towards the woods, searching for small clearing to start a fire. He laid the already sleeping Zhou Yu in a small patch of grass, trying his best to place him in a comfortable position, and he turned to his soldier. "Watch him for me... his life is in your hands."
"Yes sir..."
Now to find Lu Jun... somehow, Zhao Yun knew this wasn't going to be an easy task...
~*~*~*~
The first thing Gan Ning woke up to was a splitting headache, and the ex-pirate would have tried to move into a more comfortable position, however, with his hands bound behind a pole, he wasn't really given much of an option. The second thing he woke up to was the annoying babble of the Nanmans, and he would have done anything to shut them up. That was when he realized what had happened, and he quickly looked around, confusion overriding his aching head. "What the..."
"Calm down..." Sun Shang Xiang said to him, as she also sat bound to a pole. She looked physically unharmed, and she winced when she saw the huge bump on his head. "She really hit you hard, didn't she?"
He remembered seeing the giant boomerang zooming at him like a bat out of hell, striking a blow to his head. He think, if he recalled correctly, that he was unconscious right as he hit the soft ground, so he hadn't the chance to see anyone else.
Groaning, he asked, "Where's the Shu?"
"I think they're in another tent... they blindfolded us as we were being brought in..." Sun Shang Xiang answered, slightly worried for Lord Liu Bei, Ma Chao, and their forces. She looked back to the still unconscious Taishi Ci, seeing the trail of blood run down the side of his partially tilted face. Before Gan Ning could even ask, she explained, "Taishi Ci took it hard... that blonde bitch is nothing but a bully."
"Zhu Rong? She has her husband to back her up, what do you expect?"
Now Gan Ning started fiddling with the ropes that bounded him, getting a slap in the face from one of the soldiers for even attempting to do so. He bit at their fingers when they tried again, laughing when he felt the taste of blood in his mouth. "Don't touch me, fiend!"
He was silenced by a kick from another native, and Zhu Rong's voice boomed out, resembling that of a banshee. "Watch your tongue, Wu scum, or I'll slay you before my husband even gives you as much as a glance."
The soldiers that gathered around the Wu officers parted, as the Red Sea had done for Moses in ancient times, but this was no holy man that walked through. Instead, a hearty, beautiful battle-axe of a woman, an Amazon as many would have called her, walked up to them, stopping short of a few inches. Zhu Rong was rumored to be the descendant of the Fire Goddess, but even minus the flames she looked formidable.
Zhu Rong looked at her captives once again, seeing Taishi Ci slowly begin to come around. "What a day this was... you're very lucky that my husband is asleep, otherwise he would order you all to death right now."
"Better death than imprisonment." Gan Ning said bravely and foolishly. He feared no man or woman, and Zhu Rong was no exception. He knew he could have easily defeated her if she had not caught him off guard, and he prayed for the second chance he would get once he found a way to break those bounds. "You'll surely pay for this Zhu Rong."
"Sorry if I don't feel threatened..." She gave a hefty laugh, making the foolish mistake of taking the ex-pirate lightly. She now turned to Sun Shang Xiang, who was smart enough to hold her tongue and hide her anger well. "No words from the daughter of Sun Jian? I was told of how outspoken you are, or were."
Smiling, Sun Shang Xiang turned away, "You are unworthy of my time, dear witch."
Now that converted the cocky grin into a frown within seconds, and, grabbing a pike from one of her soldiers, the Amazon placed its blade under Sun's chin. "Take it back, or you'll be joining your father soon!"
"Why don't you send my head back to Sun Ce? He'll leave nothing left of you or you men when he finds the one who killed his baby sister."
Touché. Zhu Rong knew to fear Sun Ce, however, she was NOT going to be bested in her own territory. Instead of using the blade of the pike, she simply turned it around and drove its hilt into her gut, turning away to leave. "Just wait until the morning when my husband wakes. After his judgment, there won't be enough of you to feed to the mackerels. Sleep well, Wu sissies."
Before leaving, though she turned, striking the now awake Taishi Ci, rendering him unconscious once again. She only laughed before leaving the Wu officers to loathe her disappearing shadow.
~*~*~*~
When Xiahou Dun and Zhang He returned, they were called immediately to Lord Cao Cao. He had found the great building that Lu Jun and his family before him made their stay in and already claimed it for himself. It was a beautiful looking home, one that went five levels high and seemed to be indestructible, as it's proud former owners was. Why would Lu Xun flee from this place, Zhang He could never tell, but as he walked down the great halls, lined with silken drapes and ancient swords hanging from its walls, he was going to find out.
As they continued their trek, he noticed a spot empty, the outlines of where two swords once laid. He could only guess and wonder as Xiahou Dun urged him forwards, quickly wanting to hear his lord's words so that he could rest.
When they finally got out of the Great Hall, they passed through the red silk curtains to see their Lord, making himself quite comfortable in the throne that belonged to the Lu family. They bowed, spotting Sima Yi at one side and Zhang Liao at his other, as Cao Cao asked. "What of the villagers? Are they all dead?"
"Yes sir... we killed a few, and the rest threw themselves into the river in fear of our power." Xiahou Dun reported proudly, just now noticing the way Sima Yi avoided them. He could see the evidence of tears on his unnaturally dirty face, but he only wondered, deciding it was best just not to ask. "There wasn't a single one that escaped."
"And the maiden and her soldiers?"
Zhang He decided to answer that one, "Xiahou Dun gave them a death suitable for them... the girl gave one last beautiful cry before joining the ones she failed to save. I am sure her cry was heard well across the land of Wu."
Cao Cao grinned, resting his chin in one hand. "My ears still ring from it. As flattering as you sound, Zhang He, do either of you have proof that she is dead?"
"Yes sir..." The one eyed general held his hand out to his lord, revealing the strands that were entwined around his bloody fingers. If Lu Xun was there, he could have instantly tell who it belonged to and his tears would have came ten-fold if he would have seen the pink sleeve that Xiahou Dun withdraw from under his chest plate. He handed the sleeve to Cao Cao, now wondering where they're little prisoner was. "She put up a fight, but she will no longer be a problem for us."
"Good... apparently our captive had strong feelings for her. If you were here to hear his cries, you would have been pleased, Zhang He." Then Cao Cao's face grew serious, sending a deathly glare to Sima Yi before addressing Zhang He again. "You might want to check on him, just to make sure he's not mortally wounded. I'm sure Sima Yi can give you the details on a later time, but make sure he stays alive. He's is now returned to your custody."
As pleased Zhang He was to hear that, he felt bad, knowing that he got his superior in trouble. However, he only nodded, waiting eagerly for Cao Cao to dismiss them. "There's been a change in plans; the troops aren't ready to move out yet. I'll give them three days to rest up before continuing the march up north."
"A wise choice, my lord." Sima Yi finally spoke, as he'd been spending most of the time trying to find his courage to speak again. He still couldn't believe how much Lu Xun had affected him, for nothing could cover the shame he felt now. "Stay any longer, though, and we might have the Wu at our necks."
"That's why I'm counting on Xiahou Dun and Zhang Liao to make sure the small forces we encountered earlier today don't return to bite us in the ass. Rest up, then search them out; the last thing we need are regrets."
The four generals bowed before they were dismissed, and as soon as they were out of hearing range of their Lord, Sima Yi asked, eyeing both Zhang He and Xiahou Dun. "Are they truly dead?"
Xiahou Dun answered truthfully, "It was dark and we heard their cries as they jumped into the river. We foolishly returned before making sure, though... same with the girl."
"Drats... that'll definitely come back to haunt us."
"She's gravely wounded, and the water will kill her. It is many miles from the next village in Wu territory, so the chances of them surviving are highly unlikely." Trying to calm his fellow general's fears, Zhang He spoke smoothly, his charisma anything but exaggerated. "But, JUST to sleep easier at night, I suggest one of us go make sure."
Nodding, Zhang Liao agreed, "Not only that, but Cao Cao's getting worried about the group that was suppose to kill Lu Jun... they haven't returned, and he suspects somehow the man escaped alive."
'What a pickle...' Sima Yi brought a hand to his smooth chin, shaking his head. "He's not one to deal with... for now we still have his son and village in our control, and he will grow even more enraged when he finds his people dead or dying."
"You sound as if he's a monster..." Xiahou Dun laughed, obviously taking the threat lightly. He fiddled with the hilt of his great sword, eyeing Sima Yi strangely with the one good eye he had left. "I've heard of him before, him and his Bloodwrath or whatever they like to call it. You underestimate our power, Sima Yi, something that isn't like you at all. Besides, if I recall correctly, he doesn't seem to care for the Sun family, and he's not one to search for help."
Zhang He sighed; he didn't want to be bothered with Lu Jun at all. Instead, he had his son to worry about, and he turned to leave, not giving the issue on Lu Jun a second thought, though perhaps he should have. "If one man alone can pose a threat, then we shall worry. However, Bloodwrath and all, he is still a mortal man, and mortal men die just as any other man would. If we shall see him, then slay him, simple as all that. Good night."
And with that, he was gone.
"Perhaps we should let Lu Jun lose on him to fix that carefree attitude..." Zhang Liao suggested with a sly grin, instantly imagining hanging the officer upside down by his feet and giving Lu Jun nothing but a long, hard stick. The mere thought made him laugh, making it easier for him to sleep tonight. "What a wonderful idea... perhaps I should become the strategist, then? Whip the entire army into shape, then send the man against the Shu and Wu. What a way to end the wars!"
That left Xiahou Dun and Sima Yi alone, and before Sima Yi could relieve himself, the one-eyed general asked softly, "Are you alright?"
It was unlike him to really care, but still, Sima Yi just shook it away, going to the quarters he now claimed as his own. He wanted nothing more than to sleep and forget about this day, forget about that demon, and just sleep his pain away. The question still remained, though, if Zhang He truly did love him or not, and if what Lu Xun had said to him was true or not. As he cried himself to sleep, he repeated to himself that the demon was lying. The demon was lying...
~*~*~*~
When Zhang He entered the infirmary, he could see his prisoner on the only bed occupied, seeing how burnt his skin was. He seemed to be fully conscious, as he saw Zhang He and his eyes lit with anger for a split second. The doctor tending to him grabbed, yet, another bucket as another came with bandages. He asked, quickly standing next to the bed. "What happened to him?"
As the Wu officer winced, the doctor explained, grabbing an old rag and treating the burns with the cold water. "The interrogator seemed to have gone a bit overboard, but it's nothing too serious. Second degree burns and some scratches, nothing to worry about."
But he wasn't worried. He was furious. Lu Xun wasn't suppose to be like this, trembling from the cold water, despite what good it did. "Dammit... Sima Yi could have killed him tonight... can he truly be this jealous over nothing?"
He received no answer, so Zhang He sat on one of the beds, waiting patiently for the doctors to be done, seeing that Lu Xun was far too weak to try to speak at all. All they seemed to do for the burnt wounds were sprinkle the cold water on them and lightly wrapped them with bandages, before leaving the now mummified Lu Xun to rest alone, with the watchful eyes of Zhang He standing over him. One of the soldiers came to Zhang He, bowing slightly, "Sir, what shall we do with the prisoner now?"
"Keep him here... moving him too soon would be a hazard to his health." Seeing the look of surprise on the soldier's face, he asked. "Will you explain that look please? You seem surprised."
He chose his words carefully, "I was just a bit surprised... considering he is an officer of Wu, you are giving him attention, one that makes many of us question why you have decided to keep him."
That was a question indeed, and Zhang He rather admired his courage to just come out and say it. His smile seemed to ease the soldier's confusion, and he saw no harm in telling the truth, watching the young officer drift in and out of consciousness. "Well, I see potential in him, and I feel that, if pushed the right way, that Wei has one of its greatest officer's in its hands as we speak."
"Do you think Lord Cao Cao will approve of your idea?"
He simple answered with a shrug, "I can only try... please, can you wake me when he wakes? I shall be spending the night in the east wing."
"Yes sir." He saluted, saying nothing more as the general left, giving his little captive one last look before strolling down the hallway. He rather enjoyed this castle; what a pity that Cao Cao was going to destroy it once they leave. Still, it probably didn't matter, as Cao Cao was such a fickle ruler. Perhaps the man would keep this village standing... but who knew for sure?
Still, as he passed through the great hall again, he could not help but wonder as he looked through the beautiful display of swords that hung from the wall. Would Cao Cao accept his idea? They could only benefit from him, and Wu's moral would drop tremendously, seeing how they depended greatly on the bright minds of their strategists. It would be the perfect downfall of the Wu indeed... no, not all at once, of course, but well worth the time spent on it.
Once again, he stopped at the one empty spot on the hallway. He knew what happened to those swords now, but he wasn't given the time to think about it as he heard his lord's voice come from behind. "I remember those blades that once hung there... they belonged to Lu Kang, a fighter that served China well when we were united. I assume that they were handed down to his great nephew, as I have seen them once again."
"Lu Xun stole them; they were not handed to him." Zhang He muttered to himself, not realizing he had spoken aloud. "Was Lu Kang any different from Lu Jun, my lord?"
That brought an almost bitter laugh, mixed with the footsteps as the Wei emperor grabbed one of the swords that laid resting in the Great Hall. "They seemed to be getting weaker, for Lu Kang would have sacrificed his entire village just to see his enemy dead, regardless of his blood is in danger. Perhaps it is a good thing, for I wasn't sure if we could have face him in the condition we were in."
"By the way you speak of him, you'd swear they were related to the great Lu Bu, my Lord."
"We are very lucky then, that they share no blood together. Lu Bu was bad enough without the Bloodwrath, could you possibly imagine him if it held him too?"
Now THAT was truly a frightening thought, and Zhang He couldn't stop the cold shiver that ran down his spine. He didn't even WANT to imagine that, though the thought already plagued him. However, he wasn't given the time to even wonder about that as Cao Cao interrupted his thoughts again. "Ever since you brought the Wu officer here, Sima Yi's been growing rather jealous, and he's my most trusted advisor. Don't tell him I'm talking to you about this, but I'm worried that since you've brought the man with us that my greatest strategist will keep his mind on getting rid of him over his duties."
Zhang He kept his head turned, lowering his head slightly before speaking. "Lord, if I were to persuade Lu Xun to deflect to Wei, then we will have more than just a temporary advantage over our enemies."
"And what of Sima Yi? I will refuse for sure." Cao Cao countered, swinging the blade gracefully, but still keeping a fierce structure. "Can you persuade him to work alongside a man who single-handed brought him to his limits?"
"I will do it, my lord... and soon, you will have the two best strategist in all of China at your command." Zhang He turned to him, getting down to one knee and cupping his hands together to raise above his head. "I want nothing more than to please you, Lord..."
Looking down at this almost pleading officer, Cao Cao held the sword high, it's heavy blade never wavering. There was pure confidence in Zhang He, the suit he always wore and never got it dirty once. He lowered the blade, giving it one last swipe before placing it back on the wall. "You have a week to persuade him with any means necessary, and if you fail, then I will allow Sima Yi to do with him as he sees fit. You are dismissed."
He couldn't barely believe the words himself, but he was not going to question it, bowing about three times before quickly rising and leaving. Cao Cao only nodded, before looking back at the empty spot on the wall. He felt those blades once before in battle, and he only wondered where they rested now.
All he knew was that they were safe from the hands of its masters, though he knew, if Lu Jun lived, not even that could save him.
~*~*~*~
It was well beyond midnight, but that didn't stop Lu Jun from his quest. He knew he should have fallen over to sleep a long time ago, but he could not. His people needed him, and he wasn't going to fail them a second him. It spent most of the night finding any Wei stragglers and slaying them on the spot, only regretting that he had not questioned them before giving them the final blow.
He found them, wading in the water, in fear of anymore soldiers that tried to kill them. When they saw him, they gave a shout of pure relief, several cries lifting into the air as they found their strength once again, to come to shore to great their lord.
The father of Lu Xun smiled, trying to ease them of their tears. "My people, I'm relieved to see you're alive! I regret not acting sooner, does anyone have any wounds?"
"Lord Lu Jun, thank goodness you're alive!"
"We were afraid they'd kill you!"
"What of your son, my lord?"
"I think I have been wounded, but I'll live."
Even hearing their complaints was a relief, and once again, he tried his best to soothe them with his words, finding it hard to address them all. "Lord Cao Cao has made the foolish mistake to send a few minors to do his dirty work, my dear. Young boy, do not worry about my son, for he is still living."
He looked around and asked, "Where is Lady Qiao?'
"I have her, Lord... she's gravely wounded!" a wounded bodyguard proclaimed at the far back, as a fellow bodyguard and a women aided him in bringing the bleeding and unconscious maiden towards the shore. He knew she tried to help the villagers escape, trying to save his people, and he took her into his own hands. "She fell from a cliff, and she was lucky to fall into the river, otherwise she would have met the fate of my fellow comrades."
A woman cried out, "What monsters, to attack women and children! They killed my son!"
"Sir, what of the soldiers?"
Lu Jun couldn't even touch their answers, fighting off the feeling of guilt as he gave orders. "I said that there is nothing to fear. The Wei will pay dearly for each innocent life they have taken this night, but all I ask of you is to trust the Shu officer Zhao Yun. Zhou Yu of Wu, Zhao Yun and his men are offering their services to us. They will help protect you as we aim for the next village."
One asked, "What of you, lord?"
"Yes, come with us!"
He gave them a reassuring smile, "I will see that you get to the village safely, but I will return to Wujun and get our home... and my son... back, even if I must face the entire Wei army alone, you will have your homes back!"
Before any of them could protest, they heard Zhao Yun's voice before he appeared over the hill. "That may not be so wise, Lord Lu Jun...Lord Cao Cao still holds a powerful advantage over you, as he has access to your supplies and weapons."
"Zhao Yun speaks the truth, my people," Lu Jun snorted, and he turned to him. "Where is Zhou Yu?"
"Lord, I suggest we break for the night, as my men and Zhou Yu are as equally exhausted as your people." Zhao Yun instead offered, respectively bowing to him. "I will indeed aid your people to seek refuge within Wu's closest city, and then aid you in regaining your land and son."
Glaring at this man, he could see much potential, much honor and wisdom that lasted beyond his years. This man was greater than him indeed, and he nodded, "Where would be the safest place for an entire village to sleep tonight?"
~*~*~*~
Zhou Yu had only seen the village of Wujun twice, and that was exactly how many times he had been inside their great walls. The first, from what he could remember, was a sad sight indeed, to see the wounded being cared for in the streets. They were just attacked by the Yellow Turbans, those heartless cowards.
It was a celebration, as a scorched dragon laid to waste. But what was behind it was what caught the fifteen year old's attention. He saw a kid, alone, crying though he seemed physically unharmed. He felt nothing for pity for this child, as he tried to console him.
He later discovered this kid to be the son of Lu Jun, and at the time he was Lu Yi. He met this boy again, but this time it was under a much different circumstance. He had went with Sun Ce and Sun Quan to survey the troops that trained for battle. He saw him there for a second time, seeing how he stood and saluted, not once blinking or saying a word. He didn't recognize him then, of course, but he knew this man was going to get acquainted with him shortly after the inspection.
To think, that weeping boy would turn out to be his fellow strategist in battle. He almost smiled in his dreams, however, once again he saw this village of Wujun, only under fire. Only this time, within the flames, he could see the same child, only this child was now the youthful prisoner of Wei, and he reached out to him, the flames only growing brighter from his fear.
'Zhou Yu, help me!'
He drew himself closer to the flames, trying to grasp that flaming hand. He couldn't draw himself near, the fire spurting and threatening both men if he did so. But he continued, despite the louder the cries had become. "Lu Xun, hang on! I'm coming!"
The fear in his eyes were so evident, and tears fell , falling to the ground as blood as he cried, 'I... I don't want this... don't forsake me! DON'T FORSAKE ME!'
"Forsaken... I have done no such thing!" Zhou Yu denied such accusations, only reaching forward. The flames now nipped at his hands, but he did not care. Then, he heard a laugh, and the image of Lu Xun collapsed in front of him, replaced only by the laughing demon that broke through the flames, jamming those golden claws directly into his gut. "Zh....zhang He?! Why? Why have-you taken him?"
The man only smiled, driving the claws deeper. But when he spoke, it was not his voice, but Lu Xun's. 'Alone... frightened... help me, Zhou Yu... help me...'
Then, the claws came thundering down from above, and the fire engulfed the Wu officer, leaving him to scream in its wake. "LU XUN!!!!!!!!!!!!!"
By Gingivere the Shadowreaver
~*~*~*~
Chapter Nine
~*~*~*~
The night ahead of them proved to be a challenge, as they realized they were too late for many of the villagers. It started with one body, then another, and Zhou Yu felt the last of his strength begin to die away, collapsing to the ground next to one of the bodies of a dead woman. "Too late... dammit... we were too late..."
Zhao Yun stopped a few feet ahead of him, gasping for breath as he took a body count. So far, there were ten of them, mostly women and elders, and one child. He shouted to his soldiers, "Quickly, find any survivors, and someone find Lord Lu Jun!"
They quickly obeyed, and the Little Dragon went to check on the exhausted Zhou Yu, seeing tears wanting to fall down his dirty face. He did not blame the man if he cried, for the past few days were challenging for all of them. He asked, "Do you think this is a safe place to rest?"
Angry, tired, and defeated, the Wu strategist replied, "No... a little bit more inside the woods is safer. Horses can't go through there easily, and I'm not sure if they have returned to Wujun yet..."
"Right... can you stand on your own or would you rather eat dirt?"
"Give me time... where's Lu Jun?"
Zhao Yun shrugged, "I lost track of him a long time ago... fast devil, he is. I'm guessing the bloodwrath was upon him again. The fool will be killed..."
"Then we need to stop him..." Zhou Yu willed himself to stand, nearly collapsing completely, but luckily the Shu officer was there to catch him. This man had no more strength left, he feared, and he sighed, knowing he was so close to just wanting to collapse as well.
"Try to rest... I'll search for him."
All Zhou Yu did was nod, and a soldier aided his general towards the woods, searching for small clearing to start a fire. He laid the already sleeping Zhou Yu in a small patch of grass, trying his best to place him in a comfortable position, and he turned to his soldier. "Watch him for me... his life is in your hands."
"Yes sir..."
Now to find Lu Jun... somehow, Zhao Yun knew this wasn't going to be an easy task...
~*~*~*~
The first thing Gan Ning woke up to was a splitting headache, and the ex-pirate would have tried to move into a more comfortable position, however, with his hands bound behind a pole, he wasn't really given much of an option. The second thing he woke up to was the annoying babble of the Nanmans, and he would have done anything to shut them up. That was when he realized what had happened, and he quickly looked around, confusion overriding his aching head. "What the..."
"Calm down..." Sun Shang Xiang said to him, as she also sat bound to a pole. She looked physically unharmed, and she winced when she saw the huge bump on his head. "She really hit you hard, didn't she?"
He remembered seeing the giant boomerang zooming at him like a bat out of hell, striking a blow to his head. He think, if he recalled correctly, that he was unconscious right as he hit the soft ground, so he hadn't the chance to see anyone else.
Groaning, he asked, "Where's the Shu?"
"I think they're in another tent... they blindfolded us as we were being brought in..." Sun Shang Xiang answered, slightly worried for Lord Liu Bei, Ma Chao, and their forces. She looked back to the still unconscious Taishi Ci, seeing the trail of blood run down the side of his partially tilted face. Before Gan Ning could even ask, she explained, "Taishi Ci took it hard... that blonde bitch is nothing but a bully."
"Zhu Rong? She has her husband to back her up, what do you expect?"
Now Gan Ning started fiddling with the ropes that bounded him, getting a slap in the face from one of the soldiers for even attempting to do so. He bit at their fingers when they tried again, laughing when he felt the taste of blood in his mouth. "Don't touch me, fiend!"
He was silenced by a kick from another native, and Zhu Rong's voice boomed out, resembling that of a banshee. "Watch your tongue, Wu scum, or I'll slay you before my husband even gives you as much as a glance."
The soldiers that gathered around the Wu officers parted, as the Red Sea had done for Moses in ancient times, but this was no holy man that walked through. Instead, a hearty, beautiful battle-axe of a woman, an Amazon as many would have called her, walked up to them, stopping short of a few inches. Zhu Rong was rumored to be the descendant of the Fire Goddess, but even minus the flames she looked formidable.
Zhu Rong looked at her captives once again, seeing Taishi Ci slowly begin to come around. "What a day this was... you're very lucky that my husband is asleep, otherwise he would order you all to death right now."
"Better death than imprisonment." Gan Ning said bravely and foolishly. He feared no man or woman, and Zhu Rong was no exception. He knew he could have easily defeated her if she had not caught him off guard, and he prayed for the second chance he would get once he found a way to break those bounds. "You'll surely pay for this Zhu Rong."
"Sorry if I don't feel threatened..." She gave a hefty laugh, making the foolish mistake of taking the ex-pirate lightly. She now turned to Sun Shang Xiang, who was smart enough to hold her tongue and hide her anger well. "No words from the daughter of Sun Jian? I was told of how outspoken you are, or were."
Smiling, Sun Shang Xiang turned away, "You are unworthy of my time, dear witch."
Now that converted the cocky grin into a frown within seconds, and, grabbing a pike from one of her soldiers, the Amazon placed its blade under Sun's chin. "Take it back, or you'll be joining your father soon!"
"Why don't you send my head back to Sun Ce? He'll leave nothing left of you or you men when he finds the one who killed his baby sister."
Touché. Zhu Rong knew to fear Sun Ce, however, she was NOT going to be bested in her own territory. Instead of using the blade of the pike, she simply turned it around and drove its hilt into her gut, turning away to leave. "Just wait until the morning when my husband wakes. After his judgment, there won't be enough of you to feed to the mackerels. Sleep well, Wu sissies."
Before leaving, though she turned, striking the now awake Taishi Ci, rendering him unconscious once again. She only laughed before leaving the Wu officers to loathe her disappearing shadow.
~*~*~*~
When Xiahou Dun and Zhang He returned, they were called immediately to Lord Cao Cao. He had found the great building that Lu Jun and his family before him made their stay in and already claimed it for himself. It was a beautiful looking home, one that went five levels high and seemed to be indestructible, as it's proud former owners was. Why would Lu Xun flee from this place, Zhang He could never tell, but as he walked down the great halls, lined with silken drapes and ancient swords hanging from its walls, he was going to find out.
As they continued their trek, he noticed a spot empty, the outlines of where two swords once laid. He could only guess and wonder as Xiahou Dun urged him forwards, quickly wanting to hear his lord's words so that he could rest.
When they finally got out of the Great Hall, they passed through the red silk curtains to see their Lord, making himself quite comfortable in the throne that belonged to the Lu family. They bowed, spotting Sima Yi at one side and Zhang Liao at his other, as Cao Cao asked. "What of the villagers? Are they all dead?"
"Yes sir... we killed a few, and the rest threw themselves into the river in fear of our power." Xiahou Dun reported proudly, just now noticing the way Sima Yi avoided them. He could see the evidence of tears on his unnaturally dirty face, but he only wondered, deciding it was best just not to ask. "There wasn't a single one that escaped."
"And the maiden and her soldiers?"
Zhang He decided to answer that one, "Xiahou Dun gave them a death suitable for them... the girl gave one last beautiful cry before joining the ones she failed to save. I am sure her cry was heard well across the land of Wu."
Cao Cao grinned, resting his chin in one hand. "My ears still ring from it. As flattering as you sound, Zhang He, do either of you have proof that she is dead?"
"Yes sir..." The one eyed general held his hand out to his lord, revealing the strands that were entwined around his bloody fingers. If Lu Xun was there, he could have instantly tell who it belonged to and his tears would have came ten-fold if he would have seen the pink sleeve that Xiahou Dun withdraw from under his chest plate. He handed the sleeve to Cao Cao, now wondering where they're little prisoner was. "She put up a fight, but she will no longer be a problem for us."
"Good... apparently our captive had strong feelings for her. If you were here to hear his cries, you would have been pleased, Zhang He." Then Cao Cao's face grew serious, sending a deathly glare to Sima Yi before addressing Zhang He again. "You might want to check on him, just to make sure he's not mortally wounded. I'm sure Sima Yi can give you the details on a later time, but make sure he stays alive. He's is now returned to your custody."
As pleased Zhang He was to hear that, he felt bad, knowing that he got his superior in trouble. However, he only nodded, waiting eagerly for Cao Cao to dismiss them. "There's been a change in plans; the troops aren't ready to move out yet. I'll give them three days to rest up before continuing the march up north."
"A wise choice, my lord." Sima Yi finally spoke, as he'd been spending most of the time trying to find his courage to speak again. He still couldn't believe how much Lu Xun had affected him, for nothing could cover the shame he felt now. "Stay any longer, though, and we might have the Wu at our necks."
"That's why I'm counting on Xiahou Dun and Zhang Liao to make sure the small forces we encountered earlier today don't return to bite us in the ass. Rest up, then search them out; the last thing we need are regrets."
The four generals bowed before they were dismissed, and as soon as they were out of hearing range of their Lord, Sima Yi asked, eyeing both Zhang He and Xiahou Dun. "Are they truly dead?"
Xiahou Dun answered truthfully, "It was dark and we heard their cries as they jumped into the river. We foolishly returned before making sure, though... same with the girl."
"Drats... that'll definitely come back to haunt us."
"She's gravely wounded, and the water will kill her. It is many miles from the next village in Wu territory, so the chances of them surviving are highly unlikely." Trying to calm his fellow general's fears, Zhang He spoke smoothly, his charisma anything but exaggerated. "But, JUST to sleep easier at night, I suggest one of us go make sure."
Nodding, Zhang Liao agreed, "Not only that, but Cao Cao's getting worried about the group that was suppose to kill Lu Jun... they haven't returned, and he suspects somehow the man escaped alive."
'What a pickle...' Sima Yi brought a hand to his smooth chin, shaking his head. "He's not one to deal with... for now we still have his son and village in our control, and he will grow even more enraged when he finds his people dead or dying."
"You sound as if he's a monster..." Xiahou Dun laughed, obviously taking the threat lightly. He fiddled with the hilt of his great sword, eyeing Sima Yi strangely with the one good eye he had left. "I've heard of him before, him and his Bloodwrath or whatever they like to call it. You underestimate our power, Sima Yi, something that isn't like you at all. Besides, if I recall correctly, he doesn't seem to care for the Sun family, and he's not one to search for help."
Zhang He sighed; he didn't want to be bothered with Lu Jun at all. Instead, he had his son to worry about, and he turned to leave, not giving the issue on Lu Jun a second thought, though perhaps he should have. "If one man alone can pose a threat, then we shall worry. However, Bloodwrath and all, he is still a mortal man, and mortal men die just as any other man would. If we shall see him, then slay him, simple as all that. Good night."
And with that, he was gone.
"Perhaps we should let Lu Jun lose on him to fix that carefree attitude..." Zhang Liao suggested with a sly grin, instantly imagining hanging the officer upside down by his feet and giving Lu Jun nothing but a long, hard stick. The mere thought made him laugh, making it easier for him to sleep tonight. "What a wonderful idea... perhaps I should become the strategist, then? Whip the entire army into shape, then send the man against the Shu and Wu. What a way to end the wars!"
That left Xiahou Dun and Sima Yi alone, and before Sima Yi could relieve himself, the one-eyed general asked softly, "Are you alright?"
It was unlike him to really care, but still, Sima Yi just shook it away, going to the quarters he now claimed as his own. He wanted nothing more than to sleep and forget about this day, forget about that demon, and just sleep his pain away. The question still remained, though, if Zhang He truly did love him or not, and if what Lu Xun had said to him was true or not. As he cried himself to sleep, he repeated to himself that the demon was lying. The demon was lying...
~*~*~*~
When Zhang He entered the infirmary, he could see his prisoner on the only bed occupied, seeing how burnt his skin was. He seemed to be fully conscious, as he saw Zhang He and his eyes lit with anger for a split second. The doctor tending to him grabbed, yet, another bucket as another came with bandages. He asked, quickly standing next to the bed. "What happened to him?"
As the Wu officer winced, the doctor explained, grabbing an old rag and treating the burns with the cold water. "The interrogator seemed to have gone a bit overboard, but it's nothing too serious. Second degree burns and some scratches, nothing to worry about."
But he wasn't worried. He was furious. Lu Xun wasn't suppose to be like this, trembling from the cold water, despite what good it did. "Dammit... Sima Yi could have killed him tonight... can he truly be this jealous over nothing?"
He received no answer, so Zhang He sat on one of the beds, waiting patiently for the doctors to be done, seeing that Lu Xun was far too weak to try to speak at all. All they seemed to do for the burnt wounds were sprinkle the cold water on them and lightly wrapped them with bandages, before leaving the now mummified Lu Xun to rest alone, with the watchful eyes of Zhang He standing over him. One of the soldiers came to Zhang He, bowing slightly, "Sir, what shall we do with the prisoner now?"
"Keep him here... moving him too soon would be a hazard to his health." Seeing the look of surprise on the soldier's face, he asked. "Will you explain that look please? You seem surprised."
He chose his words carefully, "I was just a bit surprised... considering he is an officer of Wu, you are giving him attention, one that makes many of us question why you have decided to keep him."
That was a question indeed, and Zhang He rather admired his courage to just come out and say it. His smile seemed to ease the soldier's confusion, and he saw no harm in telling the truth, watching the young officer drift in and out of consciousness. "Well, I see potential in him, and I feel that, if pushed the right way, that Wei has one of its greatest officer's in its hands as we speak."
"Do you think Lord Cao Cao will approve of your idea?"
He simple answered with a shrug, "I can only try... please, can you wake me when he wakes? I shall be spending the night in the east wing."
"Yes sir." He saluted, saying nothing more as the general left, giving his little captive one last look before strolling down the hallway. He rather enjoyed this castle; what a pity that Cao Cao was going to destroy it once they leave. Still, it probably didn't matter, as Cao Cao was such a fickle ruler. Perhaps the man would keep this village standing... but who knew for sure?
Still, as he passed through the great hall again, he could not help but wonder as he looked through the beautiful display of swords that hung from the wall. Would Cao Cao accept his idea? They could only benefit from him, and Wu's moral would drop tremendously, seeing how they depended greatly on the bright minds of their strategists. It would be the perfect downfall of the Wu indeed... no, not all at once, of course, but well worth the time spent on it.
Once again, he stopped at the one empty spot on the hallway. He knew what happened to those swords now, but he wasn't given the time to think about it as he heard his lord's voice come from behind. "I remember those blades that once hung there... they belonged to Lu Kang, a fighter that served China well when we were united. I assume that they were handed down to his great nephew, as I have seen them once again."
"Lu Xun stole them; they were not handed to him." Zhang He muttered to himself, not realizing he had spoken aloud. "Was Lu Kang any different from Lu Jun, my lord?"
That brought an almost bitter laugh, mixed with the footsteps as the Wei emperor grabbed one of the swords that laid resting in the Great Hall. "They seemed to be getting weaker, for Lu Kang would have sacrificed his entire village just to see his enemy dead, regardless of his blood is in danger. Perhaps it is a good thing, for I wasn't sure if we could have face him in the condition we were in."
"By the way you speak of him, you'd swear they were related to the great Lu Bu, my Lord."
"We are very lucky then, that they share no blood together. Lu Bu was bad enough without the Bloodwrath, could you possibly imagine him if it held him too?"
Now THAT was truly a frightening thought, and Zhang He couldn't stop the cold shiver that ran down his spine. He didn't even WANT to imagine that, though the thought already plagued him. However, he wasn't given the time to even wonder about that as Cao Cao interrupted his thoughts again. "Ever since you brought the Wu officer here, Sima Yi's been growing rather jealous, and he's my most trusted advisor. Don't tell him I'm talking to you about this, but I'm worried that since you've brought the man with us that my greatest strategist will keep his mind on getting rid of him over his duties."
Zhang He kept his head turned, lowering his head slightly before speaking. "Lord, if I were to persuade Lu Xun to deflect to Wei, then we will have more than just a temporary advantage over our enemies."
"And what of Sima Yi? I will refuse for sure." Cao Cao countered, swinging the blade gracefully, but still keeping a fierce structure. "Can you persuade him to work alongside a man who single-handed brought him to his limits?"
"I will do it, my lord... and soon, you will have the two best strategist in all of China at your command." Zhang He turned to him, getting down to one knee and cupping his hands together to raise above his head. "I want nothing more than to please you, Lord..."
Looking down at this almost pleading officer, Cao Cao held the sword high, it's heavy blade never wavering. There was pure confidence in Zhang He, the suit he always wore and never got it dirty once. He lowered the blade, giving it one last swipe before placing it back on the wall. "You have a week to persuade him with any means necessary, and if you fail, then I will allow Sima Yi to do with him as he sees fit. You are dismissed."
He couldn't barely believe the words himself, but he was not going to question it, bowing about three times before quickly rising and leaving. Cao Cao only nodded, before looking back at the empty spot on the wall. He felt those blades once before in battle, and he only wondered where they rested now.
All he knew was that they were safe from the hands of its masters, though he knew, if Lu Jun lived, not even that could save him.
~*~*~*~
It was well beyond midnight, but that didn't stop Lu Jun from his quest. He knew he should have fallen over to sleep a long time ago, but he could not. His people needed him, and he wasn't going to fail them a second him. It spent most of the night finding any Wei stragglers and slaying them on the spot, only regretting that he had not questioned them before giving them the final blow.
He found them, wading in the water, in fear of anymore soldiers that tried to kill them. When they saw him, they gave a shout of pure relief, several cries lifting into the air as they found their strength once again, to come to shore to great their lord.
The father of Lu Xun smiled, trying to ease them of their tears. "My people, I'm relieved to see you're alive! I regret not acting sooner, does anyone have any wounds?"
"Lord Lu Jun, thank goodness you're alive!"
"We were afraid they'd kill you!"
"What of your son, my lord?"
"I think I have been wounded, but I'll live."
Even hearing their complaints was a relief, and once again, he tried his best to soothe them with his words, finding it hard to address them all. "Lord Cao Cao has made the foolish mistake to send a few minors to do his dirty work, my dear. Young boy, do not worry about my son, for he is still living."
He looked around and asked, "Where is Lady Qiao?'
"I have her, Lord... she's gravely wounded!" a wounded bodyguard proclaimed at the far back, as a fellow bodyguard and a women aided him in bringing the bleeding and unconscious maiden towards the shore. He knew she tried to help the villagers escape, trying to save his people, and he took her into his own hands. "She fell from a cliff, and she was lucky to fall into the river, otherwise she would have met the fate of my fellow comrades."
A woman cried out, "What monsters, to attack women and children! They killed my son!"
"Sir, what of the soldiers?"
Lu Jun couldn't even touch their answers, fighting off the feeling of guilt as he gave orders. "I said that there is nothing to fear. The Wei will pay dearly for each innocent life they have taken this night, but all I ask of you is to trust the Shu officer Zhao Yun. Zhou Yu of Wu, Zhao Yun and his men are offering their services to us. They will help protect you as we aim for the next village."
One asked, "What of you, lord?"
"Yes, come with us!"
He gave them a reassuring smile, "I will see that you get to the village safely, but I will return to Wujun and get our home... and my son... back, even if I must face the entire Wei army alone, you will have your homes back!"
Before any of them could protest, they heard Zhao Yun's voice before he appeared over the hill. "That may not be so wise, Lord Lu Jun...Lord Cao Cao still holds a powerful advantage over you, as he has access to your supplies and weapons."
"Zhao Yun speaks the truth, my people," Lu Jun snorted, and he turned to him. "Where is Zhou Yu?"
"Lord, I suggest we break for the night, as my men and Zhou Yu are as equally exhausted as your people." Zhao Yun instead offered, respectively bowing to him. "I will indeed aid your people to seek refuge within Wu's closest city, and then aid you in regaining your land and son."
Glaring at this man, he could see much potential, much honor and wisdom that lasted beyond his years. This man was greater than him indeed, and he nodded, "Where would be the safest place for an entire village to sleep tonight?"
~*~*~*~
Zhou Yu had only seen the village of Wujun twice, and that was exactly how many times he had been inside their great walls. The first, from what he could remember, was a sad sight indeed, to see the wounded being cared for in the streets. They were just attacked by the Yellow Turbans, those heartless cowards.
It was a celebration, as a scorched dragon laid to waste. But what was behind it was what caught the fifteen year old's attention. He saw a kid, alone, crying though he seemed physically unharmed. He felt nothing for pity for this child, as he tried to console him.
He later discovered this kid to be the son of Lu Jun, and at the time he was Lu Yi. He met this boy again, but this time it was under a much different circumstance. He had went with Sun Ce and Sun Quan to survey the troops that trained for battle. He saw him there for a second time, seeing how he stood and saluted, not once blinking or saying a word. He didn't recognize him then, of course, but he knew this man was going to get acquainted with him shortly after the inspection.
To think, that weeping boy would turn out to be his fellow strategist in battle. He almost smiled in his dreams, however, once again he saw this village of Wujun, only under fire. Only this time, within the flames, he could see the same child, only this child was now the youthful prisoner of Wei, and he reached out to him, the flames only growing brighter from his fear.
'Zhou Yu, help me!'
He drew himself closer to the flames, trying to grasp that flaming hand. He couldn't draw himself near, the fire spurting and threatening both men if he did so. But he continued, despite the louder the cries had become. "Lu Xun, hang on! I'm coming!"
The fear in his eyes were so evident, and tears fell , falling to the ground as blood as he cried, 'I... I don't want this... don't forsake me! DON'T FORSAKE ME!'
"Forsaken... I have done no such thing!" Zhou Yu denied such accusations, only reaching forward. The flames now nipped at his hands, but he did not care. Then, he heard a laugh, and the image of Lu Xun collapsed in front of him, replaced only by the laughing demon that broke through the flames, jamming those golden claws directly into his gut. "Zh....zhang He?! Why? Why have-you taken him?"
The man only smiled, driving the claws deeper. But when he spoke, it was not his voice, but Lu Xun's. 'Alone... frightened... help me, Zhou Yu... help me...'
Then, the claws came thundering down from above, and the fire engulfed the Wu officer, leaving him to scream in its wake. "LU XUN!!!!!!!!!!!!!"