Bring Me to Life
By Gingivere the Shadowreaver
~*~*~*~
Chapter Thirteen
~*~*~*~
It was such a pity that the finest blade of Lu Jun's was now nothing but a few shattered pieces upon the floor, and all that remained was a red silken hilt, with a single shard left as its pathetic excuse for a blade. Cao Cao would have to have taken the weapon, however, he was thankful that Lu Xun used it against him. He would have found himself in quite a predicament if he would have tested this blade in the middle of a battle.
So he continued to look at the hilt and the wings, admiring what it used to be. He didn't see Sima Yi watching him from a short distance, eyeing him strangely. He nearly jumped when the man spoke lowly, bowing to his startled lord. "Sir, did you wish to see me?"
"Not really, but just official business... I'm still angered that you nearly killed our prisoner last night." Cao Cao spoke lowly, resting the dull side of the blade against his cheek and giving Sima Yi a look tat could kill. The man, however, did not twitch, flinch, or tremble, but instead smiled, hiding it behind his black feathered fan. "Try to keep control of yourself, okay, or I won't trust you with anyone, not even Zhang He."
He only nodded, "Yes my lord... I will be more careful with the prisoner, as he seems to be very valuable to our success. What is it you wish to speak about my lord?"
Relaxing a bit, Cao Cao replied, still fiddling with the broken sword in his hands, acting almost careless. "It's about our prisoner; tell me, do you know the ways of brainwashing, Sima Yi?"
The strategist rose an eyebrow, as if curious. "Brainwashing, lord? Yes... I've heard of methods, though it's rather unpredictable to say if it is a complete success."
"I figured that much..." With that, the man rose, stepping from Lu Jun's throne to walk towards and past Sima Yi, requesting that he should follow. As they went down the Great Hall, he spoke lowly, glancing at the weapons that hung from the walls with admiration. "Now I want your most honest opinion, and please try to keep your heart clear of this when I ask you."
"I shall do my best, my lord!"
Eyeing him again, Cao Cao asked, "Do you think it's possible that we can brainwash this Lu Xun and have him among our ranks?"
Now, Sima Yi truly tried to be completely unbias when he answered, choosing his words with extreme caution as to not arouse any doubt or anger within his lord. "Perhaps it shall, though the best way of capturing a man's spirit is through pain, and not just physical."
"I see... tell me, do you think that the Bloodwrath has died within him?"
"I cannot say for sure, though if anyone can control such a power, then we can easily control him." Sima Yi had so many thoughts running through his head, and his sense for power easily conquered his heart in this matter. "We must provoke it, encourage it to come out during his most desperate times of pain, anger, frustration! All of those are essential, though awaking such a dormant thing within a patient and level-headed man such as Lu Xun, it will be very difficult. He is very much unlike his father, who we all know to have a short temper and a great lust for blood."
It was obvious that Cao Cao was indeed listening, as he seemed to have been plotting as well. He was never one to take lightly, when it came to scheming as well, proving to be as witty as any strategist known. "Through pain... yes... where do you think his pain lies the deepest?"
Sima Yi answered, remembering that scene very well. How he wished he could have caused more pain that night... how he wished that he could be doing the same now. "And another source would be from his father; I'm not sure if you already knew this, my lord, but Lu Xun
and his father did not quite get along."
Nodding, Cao Cao replied, "I know this for a fact; it's why he's changed his name. Lu Jun was a strict man, just as strict as his uncle was. He's a black sheep of his family... it would be wise to use it against him."
"Most definitely, my lord!"
Cao Cao was in mid thought when Zhang He came into view. He gave his lord the most graceful bow that one could give, and he asked, not noticing the slight look of surprise on his lord's face. "Did you wish to see me, my lord Cao Cao?"
Raising a brow, the lord looked at the broken sword in his hands for a second, before answering. "No, but since you're here, bring this to the kid; tell him it's a present and he can do with it as he pleases..."
"Uh, yes, my lord... are you sure you did not call for me?" Zhang He questioned, somehow KNOWING that was a Wei scout he was talking to earlier. However, he said nothing, in fear of angering Cao Cao and not wanting to admit his mistake.
"I'm positive... now be gone with you." Handing him the broken sword, Cao Cao dismissed him, turning back to business.
However, Sima Yi spoke up against his lord, wishing for Zhang He to stay for just a little bit longer. "Zhang He, how do you think Lu Xun feels about his father?"
The exotic officer gave him a slight look, then pondered the question as truthfully as he could. "Not well, I'm guessing... however, if you wish, I can look much deeper into it, if you don't mind."
"By all means... I want no secrets between our little prisoner..." Cao Cao wore a face that hinted a scheme, but Zhang He paid no attention to his, knowing the wit of his lord. So Zhang He left with a bow, leaving Cao Cao alone with Sima Yi once again. He waited until he was completely out of hearing range before saying anything. "He's far too nice to the brat, I find... I wish to unlock this Bloodwrath, and control it! Sima Yi, I want you to make SURE his life is miserable, and free the demon inside of him..."
And, to make his life miserable, was one task that Sima Yi knew he could accomplish with a smile. "Of course, my lord..."
No sooner had he left, a messenger ran into the Great Hall, saluting his lord. He spoke slightly out of breath, but keeping his voice leveled in a respectable manner. "My Lord, news from the South! Lord Liu Bei lives, but he and members of Wu are being held prisoner within the Nanman territory!"
"Then he is better off dead!" Cao Cao snapped, very pleased to hear this news. He dismissed the messenger with a wave of his hand, and he returned to the throne room, to contemplate the next steps very carefully. "The Nanman will surely execute him, then only the Sun family will stand in my way for complete power!"
Yes, he could clearly see it all now, and that made a grin of the Devil appear on his sly face as he sat in Lu Jun's throne. China was all his now...
~*~*~*~
It was a celebration that the Wu, nor Shu, forces would have liked to have attended. Their own execution! Well, it wasn't a true execution, as the lord of the land they were dragged in hadn't really ordered for it yet, but they knew it was to come. But they did not let that bother them, really, or at least it didn't bother Gan Ning.
No, the ex-pirate only laughed at this, mocking the Nanmans and their primitive attire and their customs. "Yes, you dumb, pickle-headed baboons, laugh while you can! You call for death; unbind me and see it for yourselves!"
It was a small reunion for the troops, as Liu Bei and Ma Chao were being brought into the front of the beautifully decorated tent, in which they presumed belonged to none other than Meng Huo himself.
Sun Shang Xiang was the first to notice the black eye that masked Liu Bei's face, gasping slightly as they were brought together to kneel in front of the tent. "Lord Liu Bei, are you alright?"
"Only a bruised ego..." Liu Bei responded quickly, the first ruler of Shu glaring at the soldiers around him with the one good eye he had. Ma Chao could barely kneel, with two soldiers at his side and gripping his wrists, and it seemed that Taishi Ci's punishment was nothing compared to his. This fact made Liu Bei very angry, shouting to Meng Huo. "Spare us the suspense and show yourself, coward! As emperor of Shu, I demand a fair trial!"
Zhu Rong answered him, walking through the tent's primitive flaps and standing before them. She still wore that confident look on her face, and the descendant of the Fire Goddess only laughed at them, making their hatred for her only grow. "And if we were to be in your land, what then? Nothing is fair anymore, so quit your whining and accept your fate like the meaningless fodders that you are!"
Acid dripped from Gan Ning's words, instantly catching her attention. "If you were in our land, I'd have to tie you to the bed and give you a dose of your own medicine, woman! Tell me, do you fight in battle because you cannot fight in the bed?"
"What?! How DARE you speak to me like that!?" Zhu Rong was beyond furious, as fire seemed to shoot from her eyes. Without a warning, she hurled herself at the ex-pirate, withdrawing a small knife from her boot and aiming for his jugular vein. "I'll show you some respect you insolent swine!"
As quick as lightening, Gan Ning averted the attack, turning slightly and, with his hands tied behind his back, kicked her right into the gut. She gave a howl before doubling over in pain. Gan Ning, however, did not get far, as he was beaten to the ground as a few men tried to help the wife of their lord. Still, he went smiling, gloating still as the furious woman tried to control her rage. "Aha! Trying to make up for something I see!"
"Oh, I am so going to kill you! You're head will hang over my bed at night!"
Somehow, she broke free, but lucky for Gan Ning, Sun Shang Xiang was there, withdrawing her leg and letting it get caught with the other woman's, making her topple over in a mess. It was pure chaos for a few seconds, but it was enough to rise the spirits of the captives. Liu Bei rammed himself into one of the soldiers, rendering him into unconsciousness within seconds of impact, and though Ma Chao could not rise to fight, he too joined the chaos, trying to protect his lord.
It only seemed to have gotten worse when Gan Ning tricked a soldier into cutting him lose, and now he fought fiercely against the soldiers, using a half spear in one hand and the dagger he stole from Zhu Rong in the other. He did not see Meng Huo emerge from the tent, but even his arrival would not have stopped his revolt.
Another Nanman laid dead at his feet, and the ex-pirate gave a howl, showing no mercy. "If I shall die this day, then let you come with me! Let us visit Hell together! HAHAHAHAHA!"
It was surely a short revolt, as Gan Ning found himself overpowered by Meng Huo and outwitted by the now vengeful Zhu Rong, and an odd definition of peace was restored among the captives shortly after. The rage-filled woman kept her foot rested nicely on Gan Ning's head, and she grabbed her boomerang, threatening him to no avail. "Wipe that grin off your face, you scoundrel, or I'll have it!"
Instead, he pursed his lips together, puckered up, and winked, "Want my lips? Come and get it then!"
Flirting in front of the woman's wife surely wasn't the smartest thing to do, but he did not care. He'd rather die then to stay prisoner within the Nanman's territory.
~*~*~*~
The city of Dian Gso was a rather small place, but big enough to welcome the traveling warriors and peasants, offering them a place to rest. They were truly grateful, and Zhao Yun helped Lu Jun and Lu Meng with the people and Da Qiao, getting them to medical help as soon as they arrived.
Wei Yan stayed behind with Pang Tong, snorting, "Too... many... people..."
"Now, now... I am sure they are thinking just the same, not to mention they seem to fear your presence. "Pang Tong could see the children's terrified gaze lay upon the masked warrior, and the man did nothing to console them, glaring at them and returning the stare with a growl. "Behave!"
"Dumb... kids..."
That only made Pang Tong laugh, knowing his appearance did not help as well. He only urged Wei Yan on, away from them. He could see Lu Jun smirking, as if enjoying himself, but he paid no attention to it. "Quickly now, before they have a heart attack at such a young age."
Wei Yan hissed, "Me... not... child. Can... move... on... own..."
"Just be quiet, before you make the kids go deaf with your words, masked baboon!" Lu Jun shorted, not really helping the tension between the two.
Zhao Yun sighed, rubbing his temples against the inevitable headache. Finally he forced a smile, and he bent down to talk to the children, trying to give them at least ONE friendly face to remember from all this confusion.
Despite the obvious tension that rose at the beginning of their visit, things eventually worked out, and they were welcomed to a feast by the inhabitants, to boost their morale and strengthen them up for the obvious counter attack they were planning against the Wei. Sitting alone, was Lu Jun, who stared at the others without much of a thought.
Actually, that was not entirely accurate. He could not help but wonder about these strange officers in green. Zhao Yun, as much as he hated to admit it, was a good leader of his men, despite his youth. Pang Tong spoke with great wisdom that was not to be found in many people at all, and he had yet to pull down that mask to eat anything, leaving Lu Jun to wonder just WHAT he was hiding under there...
And then again, there was Wei Yan. Just looking at him made him want to laugh, but still, his fighting abilities were almost the same as his. He was curious; was Wei Yan also living with the influence of Bloodwrath? No, no man as dumb and slow as him could possibly possess such a curse.
"You should not be so quick to judge Wei Yan," Pang Tong murmured, surprising him. Just how had he gotten there?! "He is ignorant, yes, but not stupid, and very much under a curse..."
Angered that he was caught off guard, Lu Jun rose, gripping his spear and holding it at his side. He missed his sword, but he would get it back, as soon as he regained his village. He looked to Wei Yan, seeing the man sitting against a pillar, all alone, and he snorted, "A curse you say? What is it?"
"You can control your Bloodwrath; Wei Yan can hardly control himself because of his..."
"So, he does have it in him..." Lu Jun shook his head, sighing with almost a sense of pity for the man. He remembered a time, when he could not control his own fury, and rage. Then, taking his mind off of that, he asked Pang Tong, "So what about you? What's with your get-up?"
The Shu officer laughed quietly, "No particular reason. I find it easier to face the world this way..."
Raising an eyebrow, the lord of Wujun questioned again. "So hiding your face protects you from this cruel age of war?"
"Nothing can erase the horrors I have seen, but by hiding my true emotions, I am still able to do my job day in and day out..."
With a slight bow, the hooded man departed, leaving Lu Jun to look at him, then back at the isolated Wei Yan. How strange these people were, he thought, but unique. He found himself, now, standing over him, but not taking Wei Yan by surprise, barely catching the double-edged voulge with his own spear. "Calm down... for once I come in peace!"
He could almost see the battle within the masked man by looking into his eyes, and the weapon was dropped, though Wei Yan looked away, "Go. Wei... Yan... want... alone..."
"So antisocial... you remind me of my son sometimes, you know. At least he doesn't talk like you..." Smiling oddly, Lu Jun set aside his spear, not leaving the man at all. "Tell me, do you like to go off into battle, Wei Yan?"
"Yes. Time... pain... leaves..." The masked warrior then shook his head, "But... also... no. No... like... losing... self..."
He could see his eyes through the mask, and though they seemed lifeless, there was still some humanity there. Now he almost felt bad, for antagonizing him earlier in the day, but he fought down the feeling well, much like he done so well many times before. "Would it help so say that I know what you're going through?"
Wie Yan's voice was bitter, "You... lose... self... but... you... no... have... to... fight... just... to... live. Just... to... form... words... and... not... attack..."
"Well, you got me there, I wasn't THAT bad..."
"You... no... live... in... pain." The Shu officer's grip tightened on his weapon, "Not... fair..."
Sighing, Lu Jun shook his head, resting his hand on his own weapon, just in case. "No, it's not really fair.... But, if you want, I can try to teach you how to control it. It's not good to go through so much pain alone, you know..."
Wei Yan sighed, "Pang... Tong... try. No... go... away..."
But Lu Jun, never one to back down without a fight, only pushed on, "Now that's your problem... ignorant. You don't know when to accept help, do you? I suppose that's what makes us so much alike, then; I like your guts. You are willing to charge an entire army alone, even when others are telling you to fall back... am I correct?"
"I... no... like... running. Like... losing... less..."
"Then duel me... for I do not like to lose just as much!" There was a twinkle in his eyes, as he now caught the attention of some of the men there, including Pang Tong. He could also see the twinkle in the other man's eyes, as if he was waiting for him to ask, and his smile deepened. "I want to see how strong you are, Wei Yan... to see if you're worthy of the Bloodwrath."
"More... than... worthy..." Wei Yan laughed, whirling about, his weapon practically leaping into position. "Duel... now..."
And that brought out a devilish grin from Lu Jun, in spite of the look Zhao Yun gave him. "I was hoping to hear that... shall we do it here?"
"Further... out. No... want... stopped... by... Shu..."
However, before they could progress outward, Zhao Yun and Pang Tong were quick to stop them, and Zhao Yun spoke. "I fail to see why you two are going to duel... we should be more concerned with stopping the Wei and getting your son and village back!"
Wei Yan snarled, "Plenty... pain... for... enemies..."
"Agreed, but you should both me in good condition to fight them," Pang Tong advised, not noticing Sun Ce shaking his head in the background. "What good will the fight be with both of you injured?"
Lu Jun only gripped his spear, "Just leave us be..."
Now Lu Meng tried to stop them, shaking his head at them. "How childish... do you not care about your son at all, Lu Jun? You sacrificing your village I can understand, but you'd rather duel your own allies then to save your own son, I cannot see logic in that at all."
He found the blade of Wei Yan's strange weapon at his throat suddenly, and the masked warrior snarled, "No... stop... duel. Pain... too... bad..."
"Settle down, you guys!" If it were not for Sun Ce, Lu Meng would have countered, and now the ruler of Wu stood in the middle of them, his optimism not truly helping the situation. "Let them duel, but I would suggest something that won't slice and dice your heads off. You both are pretty important, and losing you to a duel would be tragic."
Lu Jun looked at him out of the corner of his eyes, "Then what would you suggest?"
Shrugging, Sun Ce suggested, "Lanterns, or poles, or something. Just try not to kill one another, okay?"
Wei Yan chuckled, his lifeless eyes beginning to gleam, "Hands... then...?"
"That'll do... a good old fist fight! Knock yourselves out!"
Lu Jun threw down his spear, his grin only widening, "Fine by me. Come on then Wei Yan!"
But once again, Pang Tong gave advice against it, addressing to Wei Yan alone, "You're only making it worse for yourself if you accept... save your fight for Cao Cao."
Now Wei Yan seemed to hesitate, and he spoke lowly, for Pang Tong's ears alone, "Hurts..."
"I know, but have patience..." Pang Tong said softly, resting a hand on his shoulder. They were distracted now, as they heard a gate captain shout, announcing the arrival of another soldier. Hearing the name spread, he nodded, "Good... Zhou Yu has arrived; hopefully he will have valuable information involving the situation..."
Sun Ce sighed, "Yes... it would be GOOD to have some positive news..."
"Drats..." Lu Jun spat, seeing the chance for a duel slip away.
"Duel... later," Wei Yan promised.
As Zhou Yu was lead in through the gates of the city, Lu Jun only nodded, feeling slightly better now. With the tension between those two almost out of the way, he could focus more on getting his village, and his son, back. 'Don't grow weak on me now, son... stay alive long enough so that I can brutally massacre all those who dared touch someone of my blood...'
By Gingivere the Shadowreaver
~*~*~*~
Chapter Thirteen
~*~*~*~
It was such a pity that the finest blade of Lu Jun's was now nothing but a few shattered pieces upon the floor, and all that remained was a red silken hilt, with a single shard left as its pathetic excuse for a blade. Cao Cao would have to have taken the weapon, however, he was thankful that Lu Xun used it against him. He would have found himself in quite a predicament if he would have tested this blade in the middle of a battle.
So he continued to look at the hilt and the wings, admiring what it used to be. He didn't see Sima Yi watching him from a short distance, eyeing him strangely. He nearly jumped when the man spoke lowly, bowing to his startled lord. "Sir, did you wish to see me?"
"Not really, but just official business... I'm still angered that you nearly killed our prisoner last night." Cao Cao spoke lowly, resting the dull side of the blade against his cheek and giving Sima Yi a look tat could kill. The man, however, did not twitch, flinch, or tremble, but instead smiled, hiding it behind his black feathered fan. "Try to keep control of yourself, okay, or I won't trust you with anyone, not even Zhang He."
He only nodded, "Yes my lord... I will be more careful with the prisoner, as he seems to be very valuable to our success. What is it you wish to speak about my lord?"
Relaxing a bit, Cao Cao replied, still fiddling with the broken sword in his hands, acting almost careless. "It's about our prisoner; tell me, do you know the ways of brainwashing, Sima Yi?"
The strategist rose an eyebrow, as if curious. "Brainwashing, lord? Yes... I've heard of methods, though it's rather unpredictable to say if it is a complete success."
"I figured that much..." With that, the man rose, stepping from Lu Jun's throne to walk towards and past Sima Yi, requesting that he should follow. As they went down the Great Hall, he spoke lowly, glancing at the weapons that hung from the walls with admiration. "Now I want your most honest opinion, and please try to keep your heart clear of this when I ask you."
"I shall do my best, my lord!"
Eyeing him again, Cao Cao asked, "Do you think it's possible that we can brainwash this Lu Xun and have him among our ranks?"
Now, Sima Yi truly tried to be completely unbias when he answered, choosing his words with extreme caution as to not arouse any doubt or anger within his lord. "Perhaps it shall, though the best way of capturing a man's spirit is through pain, and not just physical."
"I see... tell me, do you think that the Bloodwrath has died within him?"
"I cannot say for sure, though if anyone can control such a power, then we can easily control him." Sima Yi had so many thoughts running through his head, and his sense for power easily conquered his heart in this matter. "We must provoke it, encourage it to come out during his most desperate times of pain, anger, frustration! All of those are essential, though awaking such a dormant thing within a patient and level-headed man such as Lu Xun, it will be very difficult. He is very much unlike his father, who we all know to have a short temper and a great lust for blood."
It was obvious that Cao Cao was indeed listening, as he seemed to have been plotting as well. He was never one to take lightly, when it came to scheming as well, proving to be as witty as any strategist known. "Through pain... yes... where do you think his pain lies the deepest?"
Sima Yi answered, remembering that scene very well. How he wished he could have caused more pain that night... how he wished that he could be doing the same now. "And another source would be from his father; I'm not sure if you already knew this, my lord, but Lu Xun
and his father did not quite get along."
Nodding, Cao Cao replied, "I know this for a fact; it's why he's changed his name. Lu Jun was a strict man, just as strict as his uncle was. He's a black sheep of his family... it would be wise to use it against him."
"Most definitely, my lord!"
Cao Cao was in mid thought when Zhang He came into view. He gave his lord the most graceful bow that one could give, and he asked, not noticing the slight look of surprise on his lord's face. "Did you wish to see me, my lord Cao Cao?"
Raising a brow, the lord looked at the broken sword in his hands for a second, before answering. "No, but since you're here, bring this to the kid; tell him it's a present and he can do with it as he pleases..."
"Uh, yes, my lord... are you sure you did not call for me?" Zhang He questioned, somehow KNOWING that was a Wei scout he was talking to earlier. However, he said nothing, in fear of angering Cao Cao and not wanting to admit his mistake.
"I'm positive... now be gone with you." Handing him the broken sword, Cao Cao dismissed him, turning back to business.
However, Sima Yi spoke up against his lord, wishing for Zhang He to stay for just a little bit longer. "Zhang He, how do you think Lu Xun feels about his father?"
The exotic officer gave him a slight look, then pondered the question as truthfully as he could. "Not well, I'm guessing... however, if you wish, I can look much deeper into it, if you don't mind."
"By all means... I want no secrets between our little prisoner..." Cao Cao wore a face that hinted a scheme, but Zhang He paid no attention to his, knowing the wit of his lord. So Zhang He left with a bow, leaving Cao Cao alone with Sima Yi once again. He waited until he was completely out of hearing range before saying anything. "He's far too nice to the brat, I find... I wish to unlock this Bloodwrath, and control it! Sima Yi, I want you to make SURE his life is miserable, and free the demon inside of him..."
And, to make his life miserable, was one task that Sima Yi knew he could accomplish with a smile. "Of course, my lord..."
No sooner had he left, a messenger ran into the Great Hall, saluting his lord. He spoke slightly out of breath, but keeping his voice leveled in a respectable manner. "My Lord, news from the South! Lord Liu Bei lives, but he and members of Wu are being held prisoner within the Nanman territory!"
"Then he is better off dead!" Cao Cao snapped, very pleased to hear this news. He dismissed the messenger with a wave of his hand, and he returned to the throne room, to contemplate the next steps very carefully. "The Nanman will surely execute him, then only the Sun family will stand in my way for complete power!"
Yes, he could clearly see it all now, and that made a grin of the Devil appear on his sly face as he sat in Lu Jun's throne. China was all his now...
~*~*~*~
It was a celebration that the Wu, nor Shu, forces would have liked to have attended. Their own execution! Well, it wasn't a true execution, as the lord of the land they were dragged in hadn't really ordered for it yet, but they knew it was to come. But they did not let that bother them, really, or at least it didn't bother Gan Ning.
No, the ex-pirate only laughed at this, mocking the Nanmans and their primitive attire and their customs. "Yes, you dumb, pickle-headed baboons, laugh while you can! You call for death; unbind me and see it for yourselves!"
It was a small reunion for the troops, as Liu Bei and Ma Chao were being brought into the front of the beautifully decorated tent, in which they presumed belonged to none other than Meng Huo himself.
Sun Shang Xiang was the first to notice the black eye that masked Liu Bei's face, gasping slightly as they were brought together to kneel in front of the tent. "Lord Liu Bei, are you alright?"
"Only a bruised ego..." Liu Bei responded quickly, the first ruler of Shu glaring at the soldiers around him with the one good eye he had. Ma Chao could barely kneel, with two soldiers at his side and gripping his wrists, and it seemed that Taishi Ci's punishment was nothing compared to his. This fact made Liu Bei very angry, shouting to Meng Huo. "Spare us the suspense and show yourself, coward! As emperor of Shu, I demand a fair trial!"
Zhu Rong answered him, walking through the tent's primitive flaps and standing before them. She still wore that confident look on her face, and the descendant of the Fire Goddess only laughed at them, making their hatred for her only grow. "And if we were to be in your land, what then? Nothing is fair anymore, so quit your whining and accept your fate like the meaningless fodders that you are!"
Acid dripped from Gan Ning's words, instantly catching her attention. "If you were in our land, I'd have to tie you to the bed and give you a dose of your own medicine, woman! Tell me, do you fight in battle because you cannot fight in the bed?"
"What?! How DARE you speak to me like that!?" Zhu Rong was beyond furious, as fire seemed to shoot from her eyes. Without a warning, she hurled herself at the ex-pirate, withdrawing a small knife from her boot and aiming for his jugular vein. "I'll show you some respect you insolent swine!"
As quick as lightening, Gan Ning averted the attack, turning slightly and, with his hands tied behind his back, kicked her right into the gut. She gave a howl before doubling over in pain. Gan Ning, however, did not get far, as he was beaten to the ground as a few men tried to help the wife of their lord. Still, he went smiling, gloating still as the furious woman tried to control her rage. "Aha! Trying to make up for something I see!"
"Oh, I am so going to kill you! You're head will hang over my bed at night!"
Somehow, she broke free, but lucky for Gan Ning, Sun Shang Xiang was there, withdrawing her leg and letting it get caught with the other woman's, making her topple over in a mess. It was pure chaos for a few seconds, but it was enough to rise the spirits of the captives. Liu Bei rammed himself into one of the soldiers, rendering him into unconsciousness within seconds of impact, and though Ma Chao could not rise to fight, he too joined the chaos, trying to protect his lord.
It only seemed to have gotten worse when Gan Ning tricked a soldier into cutting him lose, and now he fought fiercely against the soldiers, using a half spear in one hand and the dagger he stole from Zhu Rong in the other. He did not see Meng Huo emerge from the tent, but even his arrival would not have stopped his revolt.
Another Nanman laid dead at his feet, and the ex-pirate gave a howl, showing no mercy. "If I shall die this day, then let you come with me! Let us visit Hell together! HAHAHAHAHA!"
It was surely a short revolt, as Gan Ning found himself overpowered by Meng Huo and outwitted by the now vengeful Zhu Rong, and an odd definition of peace was restored among the captives shortly after. The rage-filled woman kept her foot rested nicely on Gan Ning's head, and she grabbed her boomerang, threatening him to no avail. "Wipe that grin off your face, you scoundrel, or I'll have it!"
Instead, he pursed his lips together, puckered up, and winked, "Want my lips? Come and get it then!"
Flirting in front of the woman's wife surely wasn't the smartest thing to do, but he did not care. He'd rather die then to stay prisoner within the Nanman's territory.
~*~*~*~
The city of Dian Gso was a rather small place, but big enough to welcome the traveling warriors and peasants, offering them a place to rest. They were truly grateful, and Zhao Yun helped Lu Jun and Lu Meng with the people and Da Qiao, getting them to medical help as soon as they arrived.
Wei Yan stayed behind with Pang Tong, snorting, "Too... many... people..."
"Now, now... I am sure they are thinking just the same, not to mention they seem to fear your presence. "Pang Tong could see the children's terrified gaze lay upon the masked warrior, and the man did nothing to console them, glaring at them and returning the stare with a growl. "Behave!"
"Dumb... kids..."
That only made Pang Tong laugh, knowing his appearance did not help as well. He only urged Wei Yan on, away from them. He could see Lu Jun smirking, as if enjoying himself, but he paid no attention to it. "Quickly now, before they have a heart attack at such a young age."
Wei Yan hissed, "Me... not... child. Can... move... on... own..."
"Just be quiet, before you make the kids go deaf with your words, masked baboon!" Lu Jun shorted, not really helping the tension between the two.
Zhao Yun sighed, rubbing his temples against the inevitable headache. Finally he forced a smile, and he bent down to talk to the children, trying to give them at least ONE friendly face to remember from all this confusion.
Despite the obvious tension that rose at the beginning of their visit, things eventually worked out, and they were welcomed to a feast by the inhabitants, to boost their morale and strengthen them up for the obvious counter attack they were planning against the Wei. Sitting alone, was Lu Jun, who stared at the others without much of a thought.
Actually, that was not entirely accurate. He could not help but wonder about these strange officers in green. Zhao Yun, as much as he hated to admit it, was a good leader of his men, despite his youth. Pang Tong spoke with great wisdom that was not to be found in many people at all, and he had yet to pull down that mask to eat anything, leaving Lu Jun to wonder just WHAT he was hiding under there...
And then again, there was Wei Yan. Just looking at him made him want to laugh, but still, his fighting abilities were almost the same as his. He was curious; was Wei Yan also living with the influence of Bloodwrath? No, no man as dumb and slow as him could possibly possess such a curse.
"You should not be so quick to judge Wei Yan," Pang Tong murmured, surprising him. Just how had he gotten there?! "He is ignorant, yes, but not stupid, and very much under a curse..."
Angered that he was caught off guard, Lu Jun rose, gripping his spear and holding it at his side. He missed his sword, but he would get it back, as soon as he regained his village. He looked to Wei Yan, seeing the man sitting against a pillar, all alone, and he snorted, "A curse you say? What is it?"
"You can control your Bloodwrath; Wei Yan can hardly control himself because of his..."
"So, he does have it in him..." Lu Jun shook his head, sighing with almost a sense of pity for the man. He remembered a time, when he could not control his own fury, and rage. Then, taking his mind off of that, he asked Pang Tong, "So what about you? What's with your get-up?"
The Shu officer laughed quietly, "No particular reason. I find it easier to face the world this way..."
Raising an eyebrow, the lord of Wujun questioned again. "So hiding your face protects you from this cruel age of war?"
"Nothing can erase the horrors I have seen, but by hiding my true emotions, I am still able to do my job day in and day out..."
With a slight bow, the hooded man departed, leaving Lu Jun to look at him, then back at the isolated Wei Yan. How strange these people were, he thought, but unique. He found himself, now, standing over him, but not taking Wei Yan by surprise, barely catching the double-edged voulge with his own spear. "Calm down... for once I come in peace!"
He could almost see the battle within the masked man by looking into his eyes, and the weapon was dropped, though Wei Yan looked away, "Go. Wei... Yan... want... alone..."
"So antisocial... you remind me of my son sometimes, you know. At least he doesn't talk like you..." Smiling oddly, Lu Jun set aside his spear, not leaving the man at all. "Tell me, do you like to go off into battle, Wei Yan?"
"Yes. Time... pain... leaves..." The masked warrior then shook his head, "But... also... no. No... like... losing... self..."
He could see his eyes through the mask, and though they seemed lifeless, there was still some humanity there. Now he almost felt bad, for antagonizing him earlier in the day, but he fought down the feeling well, much like he done so well many times before. "Would it help so say that I know what you're going through?"
Wie Yan's voice was bitter, "You... lose... self... but... you... no... have... to... fight... just... to... live. Just... to... form... words... and... not... attack..."
"Well, you got me there, I wasn't THAT bad..."
"You... no... live... in... pain." The Shu officer's grip tightened on his weapon, "Not... fair..."
Sighing, Lu Jun shook his head, resting his hand on his own weapon, just in case. "No, it's not really fair.... But, if you want, I can try to teach you how to control it. It's not good to go through so much pain alone, you know..."
Wei Yan sighed, "Pang... Tong... try. No... go... away..."
But Lu Jun, never one to back down without a fight, only pushed on, "Now that's your problem... ignorant. You don't know when to accept help, do you? I suppose that's what makes us so much alike, then; I like your guts. You are willing to charge an entire army alone, even when others are telling you to fall back... am I correct?"
"I... no... like... running. Like... losing... less..."
"Then duel me... for I do not like to lose just as much!" There was a twinkle in his eyes, as he now caught the attention of some of the men there, including Pang Tong. He could also see the twinkle in the other man's eyes, as if he was waiting for him to ask, and his smile deepened. "I want to see how strong you are, Wei Yan... to see if you're worthy of the Bloodwrath."
"More... than... worthy..." Wei Yan laughed, whirling about, his weapon practically leaping into position. "Duel... now..."
And that brought out a devilish grin from Lu Jun, in spite of the look Zhao Yun gave him. "I was hoping to hear that... shall we do it here?"
"Further... out. No... want... stopped... by... Shu..."
However, before they could progress outward, Zhao Yun and Pang Tong were quick to stop them, and Zhao Yun spoke. "I fail to see why you two are going to duel... we should be more concerned with stopping the Wei and getting your son and village back!"
Wei Yan snarled, "Plenty... pain... for... enemies..."
"Agreed, but you should both me in good condition to fight them," Pang Tong advised, not noticing Sun Ce shaking his head in the background. "What good will the fight be with both of you injured?"
Lu Jun only gripped his spear, "Just leave us be..."
Now Lu Meng tried to stop them, shaking his head at them. "How childish... do you not care about your son at all, Lu Jun? You sacrificing your village I can understand, but you'd rather duel your own allies then to save your own son, I cannot see logic in that at all."
He found the blade of Wei Yan's strange weapon at his throat suddenly, and the masked warrior snarled, "No... stop... duel. Pain... too... bad..."
"Settle down, you guys!" If it were not for Sun Ce, Lu Meng would have countered, and now the ruler of Wu stood in the middle of them, his optimism not truly helping the situation. "Let them duel, but I would suggest something that won't slice and dice your heads off. You both are pretty important, and losing you to a duel would be tragic."
Lu Jun looked at him out of the corner of his eyes, "Then what would you suggest?"
Shrugging, Sun Ce suggested, "Lanterns, or poles, or something. Just try not to kill one another, okay?"
Wei Yan chuckled, his lifeless eyes beginning to gleam, "Hands... then...?"
"That'll do... a good old fist fight! Knock yourselves out!"
Lu Jun threw down his spear, his grin only widening, "Fine by me. Come on then Wei Yan!"
But once again, Pang Tong gave advice against it, addressing to Wei Yan alone, "You're only making it worse for yourself if you accept... save your fight for Cao Cao."
Now Wei Yan seemed to hesitate, and he spoke lowly, for Pang Tong's ears alone, "Hurts..."
"I know, but have patience..." Pang Tong said softly, resting a hand on his shoulder. They were distracted now, as they heard a gate captain shout, announcing the arrival of another soldier. Hearing the name spread, he nodded, "Good... Zhou Yu has arrived; hopefully he will have valuable information involving the situation..."
Sun Ce sighed, "Yes... it would be GOOD to have some positive news..."
"Drats..." Lu Jun spat, seeing the chance for a duel slip away.
"Duel... later," Wei Yan promised.
As Zhou Yu was lead in through the gates of the city, Lu Jun only nodded, feeling slightly better now. With the tension between those two almost out of the way, he could focus more on getting his village, and his son, back. 'Don't grow weak on me now, son... stay alive long enough so that I can brutally massacre all those who dared touch someone of my blood...'