Bring Me to Life
By Gingivere the Shadowreaver
~*~*~*~
Chapter Nineteen
~*~*~*~
Sima Yi was definitely up to something, and as night began to fall for the traveling Wei army, he seemed to be completely focused on that one, simple little task. When Cao Cao would ask, Xiahou Dun would politely inform his cousin to be patient, for this plot could not be rushed, despite the pressing time.
When the army had stopped for a break, he seemed only content to lock himself in the tent with little or no distractions, and that only made Cao Cao ponder more. What WAS he up to?
Lu Xun did not care, and he was fast asleep within five minutes of them stopping for the night. Cao Cao was slightly disgusted to see the prisoner, tangled within a torn and filthy looking rag that only seemed suitable for one in such a position as him. He was shivering, as a newborn who first witnessed the coldness of its first day out of the womb. Did he actually feel for the boy?
It must have been the fatherly side of him, as he had his own children to worry about. He cursed that side of him, but did nothing more as he went in search of Zhang He. How could he leave the young prisoner unguarded?
Cao Cao found his man, helping the soldiers put up the tents. "General, don't you think you should have someone WATCHING the prisoner? I wish to know why he is left unattended."
"If we are working on turning him over to our side, sir, then we should try to treat him as an equal, correct?" Zhang He asked, quickly turning around and saluting the lord, cupping a fist in his other hand in the most elegant and polite gesture that one could see. "Let us keep this false act of kindness up until he drops his defense. It's the best way of persuading him to our side, my Lord."
Now Cao Cao could not argue with that, as he gave a simple nod with the head and left to continue with other business. Such as Sima Yi, for example. He wished to know what that man was up to, as he stormed into the tent, the guards knowing better than to try to stop him. "Lord Sima Yi, I do not like it whenever you plot behind my back."
Somehow, tonight people had a knack of turning the questions around and he found it annoying that he was almost expected to ask the question, as if he had been spending most of the time WAITING for it to be asked. And he wasted no time, rolling up the letter and tying it with a golden string. "I am merely working on changing the boy over, my lord. The Qiao still lives, but we can use this to our advantage."
"How so?" Cao Cao eyed the letter, but nothing less as he waited for the full explanation.
"Lord Sun Ce has a liking to the Qiao, as well as Lu Xun…" That smile of his only deepened, and Cao Cao never realized how frightening Sima Yi truly looked until now. "The best thing to do is to put more doubt into his mind, doubt that he will not be rescued, that they don't want him back at all."
Raising an eyebrow, the emperor almost laughed, "Somehow I have a feeling we failed with that part, as that ambush today was pretty desperate."
Sima Yi was prepared for that question as well, getting on Cao Cao's nerves. "Yes, however… they only attacked, but not once did they send a task force. If we can thwart their attacks for a little bit longer, until we reach our land, then his doubts will have indeed rise, creating a gap of sanity, one that we can easily manipulate."
"Through despair you wish to awake the Bloodwrath within the boy, like his father?" Seeing Sima Yi's nod, Cao Cao quickly disapproved. "It cannot be controlled, not even by the beholder, so what makes you think that you or any of us can control it?"
And, if it was even possible, the man's grin got wider, striking a nerve of fear within Cao Cao's heart. "This is where we use our trump card, the Qiao herself."
"Capture her?"
"No… that would only anger Sun Ce, and he is only rescuing, or attempting to rescue, Lu Xun to please her. He loves her, and if we play our cards right, then we can easily use that against Lu Xun." Sima Yi gave a laugh, an evil laugh, as if he was possessed. "The doubt will strike his soul, while her betrayal will strike his heart… then, the Bloodwrath will awaken, and that will strike the last component, leaving his mind ours to do with as we please."
This plan seemed heartless and cruel, and it looked to be more of a grudge than anything else. However, it looked as if it was going to work better than Zhang He's simple little way, and quicker. "What is your plan?"
Showing the paper, Sima Yi turned to the map he had laid out. "Send a fake troop to attack the small village of Shi Taoshen, to divide their forces, and have this letter sent to Sun Ce and Sun Ce alone… have a mole send it to him. It states the false plan of us going to capture Da Qiao by using Lu Xun as bait."
"And through jealousy you believe that Sun Ce will propose to her?"
"Of course… it would be just like him to do that, and on that night, allow Lu Xun to escape, for him to return to see that his one, true love had turned against him. With the combined forces of the lost pursuit and the betrayal to his heart, he will be overwhelmed with such pain and anger…"
Now Cao Cao was REALLY afraid of Sima Yi, as he accepted the letter. "I like your plan… heartless, but nevertheless a good plan. I expect no less from you."
Sima Yi gave a humble bow, "I suggest we start this as soon as possible, my Lord… we will not have another opportunity such as now."
"Agreed…" Cao Cao then left from the tent, finally relieved from that horrible tension in the air. He knew how enraged his strategist was, but he had a feeling that it was out of hand now. It was coming to the point that it was getting too personal for his likings, however, it was the only thing they had…
Seeing him leave made Sima Yi growl, turning to tear up the map in a fit of rage. "Heartless, am I?! Then am I TRULY the only one that sees the real demon behind all of this?! Have they all fallen to his mad charm? He will pay for what he did… and he will pay well…"
How he relished in the words, collapsing onto the cot in a fit of laughter. How he wished to see the look on that poor demon's sad little face, to return to see Da Qiao with another man, his lord. How he yearned to hear the sorrowful cries, the ones that he himself sang so many times.
His pain was not enough though… he would make all the ones he loved suffer as well.
"In the end, little brat… I will win… just you wait*."
*- Song Queue… 'Just you wait, Henry Higgins, just you wait!' Gonna write a parody to that song. My Fair Lady… such an evil musical.
~*~*~*~
It was a celebration that many found welcoming, and who better to welcome it then Lord Lu Jun himself. Many hours have they spend, decorating this little village, watching as it was coated with exotic flowers, silken shawls, and brightly-lit lanterns. It was the time of the New Year, and many were invited into the city as they released their worries and stress for this one night of fun.
Perhaps it was most welcoming to the son of Lu Jun, as he sat in his chambers, waiting for the maidens to finish helping him dress. He was thankful to be relieved of the vigorous training that his father had put him through, as he was clothes heavily for this event. For the feast, he was to sit by his father, and that meant that he was to be seen by the many lords. His father wished for him to remain silent, as he wished to be unseen, in fear of them seeing his scratches and bruises.
The maidens knew this, finding nothing but the finest clothing to distract the lords' eyes from the welts all over Lu Xun's arms and face. They had to apply make-up as well, to cover the darkness around Lu Xun's black eye. They did not wish to arouse suspicion, in fear of the lord losing his good name to Lord Sun Jian.
There were to be two special appearances tonight for the festivities. The Royal Sun family had decided to pay them a visit, as well as a traveling fair. It was to be Lu Xun's first fair ever, and he was just as excited about it as he was timid.
Now they gathered around the table, the great Royal family of Sun, the Duke Qiao and his family, and the host, the Lu family of Wujun. At the time, Lu Jun was known as Lu Yu, and his son was named Lu Yi. The name Jun came from his father before him, who sat silent at his side, and it would not be long before he took the name for himself. He had expected his son to do the same when he came of age, but there were many things he expected from his only child.
It was the first time Lu Xun had ever met the Sun Family, eyeing them with mild interest, as a peasant would look to a king and his family. Sun Jian was meant to be a leader, just by looks alone, and his charisma was astounding, unlike his own father.
Lady Wu had a face so dear, so serene that it was this time when Lu Xun begged for a mother of his own. She had long since died, and the only thing Lu Xun had of her were a golden necklace and a faint memory of a warm summer day, seeing only her smile as her beautiful but worry-stained face eclipsed the sun. Oh, how he wish he could see her again.
Then there were the children, two boys and a girl. If Lu Xun knew better, he would have realized that a fourth baby was on the way by the bulging belly of Lady Wu, however, he observed the ones that were there. The oldest, a real troublemaker, named Sun Ce, the middle child, envious of his older brother but a boy of his own, Sun Quan, and the youngest, the baby-girl named Sun Shang Xiang.
So this was the Royal Sun family, soon to be the founders of the kingdom of Wu. Nevertheless, Lu Xun was rather pleased to meet them and welcomed their presence. When others were around, his father never struck him…
Before the meal had started, Lu Xun was ordered to remain silent and to only speak when he was spoken to. All kids were told that, but they were not threatened within an inch of their life as he was, so he made perfectly sure that he was not to utter a sound, until either Sun Jian or the Qiao's father mentioned him.
So far, they had not. Sun Jian had just finished introducing his family, and he continued with the formalities, as Lu Xun kept perfectly still and quite, not daring to touch the food in front of him until everyone else did. He was almost ignored, but much to his relief, relieved from the hated glare from his father. He knew better then to anger and shame his father now, as he looked down at the food. Somehow, he lost his appetite.
Lu Xun was used to this by now, to be looked over by others and berated by his father. Ever since that incident, nothing's been the same for the poor little boy of Wujun. He often hated himself at times, but the thought of suicide never came across his mind, never wishing to shame his father like that. He was sure his father loved him... did he?
"Who is the bright young man sitting next to you?" He heard Sun Jian ask, as the man had just finished introducing his family. It was frightening for Lu Xun, as all eyes turned to him, and it was his father who spoke, not giving his son a chance to speak.
"Forgive me for not introducing my own to you earlier, sir. This is my son, Lu Yi." Lu Jun said this with much speed, as if he wished to change the simple topic of introduction. He ignored the slighted look on his son's face as he continued, "He's five and will be my successor of Wujun."
Lu Xun saw a smile rise from Sun Jian, one that a good father would have given to his own son. It was then when the boy realized that he wanted a family like the Sun. Not a royal family, but one as kind as his. He was so envious that he barely heard the question for him, "So, little Lu Yi, you're not giving your father any trouble, are you?"
So frightened that someone actually acknowledged him, Lu Xun searched for the courage to speak back without stuttering, automatically tensing up as if to await the blow from his glaring father. "I've been a good boy, Lord Sun Jian..."
Oh, if you could have heard the rich laughter that rose from the man, you would have easily felt Lu Xun's relief flutter like the butterflies in his stomach. He had feared of upsetting his father, who gave a forced smile. He was as good as dead when they left, but he didn't care, as the laughter was contagious to many at the table.
"Charming kid you have there, sir."
If only Lu Xun could absorb the compliments then, as the rest of the conversation evolved into talk of the upcoming struggle with the Yellow Turban menace and war. Being ignored again, Lu Xun was perfectly content by just envying the family before him, wishing all the more that things were different here. He did not think of wars outside of the walls of Wujun, but the war that took place in this very castle, within the training hall. He did not fear soldiers draped in yellow turbans, but more he feared of his father's blinded rage...
And, as he laid there, shivering under the star-filled sky, with nothing but his clothes and a torn rag as his blanket, he found himself still envying the Sun family. Sun Ce, Sun Quan, and Sun Shang Xiang did not realize how lucky they were, to have a father who did not beat them everyday and a mother that cared for them so dearly. They were lucky they even had a mother.
Sometimes Lu Xun found himself berating many people who take their parents for granted, but he would say nothing to them. When Gan Ning would badmouth his mother for raising him up on a pirate boat, he would merely sneer at the comment but keep his silence. No one wished to hear his opinion on such personal matters, especially if he had none to give. How could he speak of a mother if he did not have one?
He wondered why he found himself so jealous of others, even now as he laid shivering, huddling into a ball in a sad attempt to keep himself warm. Zhang He could have cared less, as he slept besides him, hogging the blankets. The only way to get to the blankets was to cuddle with him, and he refused, accepting the consequences.
Everyone else was so lucky... so very, very lucky that they were not raised in his shoes. He gave a weak laugh, feeling the rush of tears rise. They knew nothing of his pain, and he wished truly now that it would not be his father to save him. He'd rather die in the hands of the Wei than to go back to that hell he used to call home. He said the same thing when he was younger, grabbing his great uncle's swords and fleeing from Wujun on a pure white steed that his father had owned. It was his favorite horse, but he did not care, forgetting his fear in the attempt to escape.
He prayed for Zhou Yu, or Da Qiao, or anyone but his father. He almost hated his father as it was... and he did not wish to go back into his hands, only to be ridiculed and beaten for letting himself be captured like this.
Among his shivering and chattering teeth, he heard footsteps, ones that stopped right next to him. He couldn't see the figure, except for the feet, and he remained silent, not wishing to address the emperor now. Maybe if he stayed perfectly still, he would go away.
No, he heard him give a sigh, and he heard the ripping of clothes. Before he could look up, he felt some kind of clothing being draped on him, and the footsteps began and left from him, leaving him alone once again. It did not take long for Lu Xun to look at his new blanket, instantly recognizing the design to be of Lord Cao Cao's. Why would Cao Cao care enough to lend him his cape?
Still, he wasn't going to return it, not just yet, and he was quick, wrapping himself within the large cape and seeking warmth in that. He would probably ask later, but he did not wish to know, to be honest. It was all too strange, much to strange for him... and he did what he usually did as a kid, letting himself cry himself to sweet, tender sleep. He only prayed that no one, especially Cao Cao, heard his soft sobs.
~*~*~*~
Lu Meng dedicated himself to the nightly guard duty in an attempt to think to himself. He rather enjoyed the time he set aside just for him and his thoughts, and tonight was nothing different of the sort, requesting not to be bothered unless it was an emergency.
So now, the experienced general stood guard, ignoring the chill in the air as he stood poised, his battle worn halberd at his side and his tired eyes keen and alert. The night was just as silent as he was, until a small argument broke out from a nearby tent.
"Sir, I am sure their security will be doubled, even tripled, after our last assault, and attacking tonight would be foolish." Zhou Yu proposed, speaking against Sun Ce's plan of a night raid. Lu Meng could only agree with the strategist, knowing good and well that Cao Cao was anything but ignorant right now. "They will be expecting a raid, and I'm sure they sent scouts."
Sun Ce gave a hearty laugh, one that Lu Meng guessed was aimed to impress the fair maiden that had accompanied them on their mission. That was what fueled his desire for battle, to merely impress Da Qiao. Had he no intention of saving Lu Xun at all?
"But if they were expecting it, wouldn't it be the best time to attack?" Sun Ce asked, cracking his knuckles and giving a rather snide remark. "After an attack like that, I don't think they would recuperate in enough time for tonight, and now they're pretty much vulnerable."
Hearing Zhou Yu's sigh, Lu Meng only guessed that Zhou Yu had the safety of the young boy in mind. "Attacking in such an area could be dangerous. We don't know the terrain, and we could very well harm Lu Xun."
Now Da Qiao spoke up, her voice full of concern. "Lord Sun Ce, I think we should listen to Zhou Yu… as flattered as I am that you will run head first into battle, I don't wish for any harm to come to either you, Lu Xun, or our men."
She nearly lost her voice when she spoke his name, and Lu Meng rose an eyebrow, remaining poise and alert. "Relax, Da Qiao… I know Zhou Yu is right. He always is… and I promise that we'll get him back without harming a single little hair on his little body."
Once again, Lu Meng had to turn his head from his duties, as he watched Sun Ce practically storm out of the tent, fists curled into balls and his teeth clenched. Lu Meng did not follow him, though, trying to remain concerned to his duties as he heard Da Qiao speak softly to Zhou Yu. "Did I say something wrong?"
"No, you didn't say anything wrong, dear…" Zhou Yu lied, rubbing his temples slightly and groaning from the rising headache. He knew it would have been best to speak with Sun Ce now, but his head simply could not take it right now. "He just… doesn't like to be told no."
"I see… well, I should be off now. I wish you sweet sleep."
It was quiet again, and Lu Meng gave a low sigh, wondering exactly how much he was missing. Nevertheless, the love 'triangle' they had going on should be the last thing on his mind as he returned to his chore, keeping his complete attention into that.
He hoped that Lu Xun would return soon, he thought with a sigh. The longer he stayed within his hands, the more worrisome Lu Meng, as well as several others, became.
~*~*~*~
Sun Ce was almost beyond upset, as he found a nice little area just for himself, and he took out his anger on a poor branch that hung sadly from an even more depressing looking tree. He tore it away and shredded the leaves with his hands, giving a low growl before throwing it to the ground to bury it under his boots. Damn that Lu Xun!
It wasn't too often that Sun Ce got angry, but when he was, he was a walking time bomb. He sat under the depressing tree with a gruff, brooding to himself about how much he despised the little brat right now.
No, he certainly didn't hate Lu Xun, but the jealousy within him only built up, to the point that he almost DID hate him. What did that little brat, who was five years younger than Da Qiao, have that HE didn't?
"Da Qiao deserves MORE than that…" He grumbled to himself, trying his best, his very best, to control his anger. "I'm much stronger than him… HE'S the one who got himself caught, dammit, HE should let himself go."
Even saying that seemed wrong, and he knew it, giving a weak sigh and laying on the grass now, to look at the stars. His anger had quickly transformed into sorrow, and right now, he longed for Da Qiao the most. He loved her; he loved her since the first day he met her at that celebration at Wujun. And yet, she cared more for the boy than him, a man that could give her so much more?
It made no sense!
Now, his sorrow was overwhelmed by sheer determination, fueled by the desire of one, single woman. He was GOING to win her heart, and he was going to do it by saving that little brat. "Da Qiao will be mine… this will be a fight that I will NOT lose!"
And Sun Ce meant that…
Now, to the person that was sitting in the tree, hearing this wasn't such a good thing. Pang Tong didn't really want to listen to Sun Ce's words, but it seemed impossible to just ignore him. Giving a little whistle, he scratched his nose, trying to go back to meditating. "Well… THAT certainly doesn't sound good…"
~*~*~*~
The stables seemed untouched, though almost empty. He supposed that the Wei had stolen a few of his good horses, but the one that caught his attention the most was the sickly and wounded gray steed that once belonged to Lord Liu Bei. Wei had found the poor beast useless and left him behind... to die.
Lu Jun approached the horse, not knowing who it belonged to or where it came from, but the tired steed rose its great head to look at him, its hazy black eyes sparkling with hope. Kneeling next to it, he stroked his soft, gray coat, sighing deeply. "Not even a horse is safe from their cruel ways."
The horse could not answer, and Zhao Yun arrived, not meaning to sneak up on the lord. "Lord Lu Jun, the troops are ready to depart now."
"Good... I found that last battle to be quite lacking, at least for me." Lu Jun stroked the beast's side, as he turned to one of the soldiers nearby. "Make sure that this horse is properly taken care of... he looks to be of some importance."
As the soldiers went to obey, Zhao Yun looked at the horse for himself, complete shock overcoming him, "That's my Lord's steed! I remember that they had stolen it as they were retreating..."
Hearing the familiar voice of Zhao Yun, the horse tried to rise, to greet him, however, it was far too weak from starvation and maltreatment to succeed, and Lu Jun helped calm it down, pushing it back down gently. He was so kind to this horse, and Zhao Yun couldn't understand how one could be kind to strangers and creatures, but not to his own kin.
"Then when your lord joins us in battle, he can gladly take his steed back if it lives beyond the night." Giving the horse one last stroke, Lu Jun rose, walking alongside the warrior as they surveyed the troops. Instantly, Lu Jun had spotted the masked warrior, already mounted and waiting to pursue the enemy. "How's Wei Yan?"
Taking a look at him himself, Zhao Yun sighed, "Hasn't spoken a word sense he woke up... not a grunt or a sound."
"Is he normally like that after a battle?"
The bleak look told all, and Lu Jun mounted his steed, taking a look at the masked warrior that sat as silent as a dead horse next to him. He could tell by the stiffness of his jaw that he was not just sitting there, but thinking as well. He wondered what was going on in that head of his, but he said nothing, turning his horse around to face his troops. "Tonight we will find the Wei and we will show them no mercy! Long have they committed such crimes against the innocent, and it is time that we make them pay!"
They gave their approval through a shout, and it was not long before the forces began their move, following behind the three main generals in the front. Lu Jun hoped to find the Wei forces quickly, but the thought of Wei Yan losing even more of himself bore into his mind. Right now, he was thankful that his own son had nothing of the Bloodwrath within him, in fear of his son, his brilliant but weak son, turning into this.
"Grrr..." Wei Yan gave a sneer, catching Lu Jun off guard slightly. He spoke his first words for the day, aiming them directly at the lord of Wujun. "Stop... stare. Angers me..."
"Tell me, Wei Yan... are you afraid of what you would become if you were not ruled by the Bloodwrath? Does the thought of a new life frighten you to where you do not want to be lifted from the curse?"
That was a question indeed... one that Wei Yan had decided not to answer. Instead, he returned to his silent state, leaving Lu Jun to shake his head as they continued their pursuit.
By Gingivere the Shadowreaver
~*~*~*~
Chapter Nineteen
~*~*~*~
Sima Yi was definitely up to something, and as night began to fall for the traveling Wei army, he seemed to be completely focused on that one, simple little task. When Cao Cao would ask, Xiahou Dun would politely inform his cousin to be patient, for this plot could not be rushed, despite the pressing time.
When the army had stopped for a break, he seemed only content to lock himself in the tent with little or no distractions, and that only made Cao Cao ponder more. What WAS he up to?
Lu Xun did not care, and he was fast asleep within five minutes of them stopping for the night. Cao Cao was slightly disgusted to see the prisoner, tangled within a torn and filthy looking rag that only seemed suitable for one in such a position as him. He was shivering, as a newborn who first witnessed the coldness of its first day out of the womb. Did he actually feel for the boy?
It must have been the fatherly side of him, as he had his own children to worry about. He cursed that side of him, but did nothing more as he went in search of Zhang He. How could he leave the young prisoner unguarded?
Cao Cao found his man, helping the soldiers put up the tents. "General, don't you think you should have someone WATCHING the prisoner? I wish to know why he is left unattended."
"If we are working on turning him over to our side, sir, then we should try to treat him as an equal, correct?" Zhang He asked, quickly turning around and saluting the lord, cupping a fist in his other hand in the most elegant and polite gesture that one could see. "Let us keep this false act of kindness up until he drops his defense. It's the best way of persuading him to our side, my Lord."
Now Cao Cao could not argue with that, as he gave a simple nod with the head and left to continue with other business. Such as Sima Yi, for example. He wished to know what that man was up to, as he stormed into the tent, the guards knowing better than to try to stop him. "Lord Sima Yi, I do not like it whenever you plot behind my back."
Somehow, tonight people had a knack of turning the questions around and he found it annoying that he was almost expected to ask the question, as if he had been spending most of the time WAITING for it to be asked. And he wasted no time, rolling up the letter and tying it with a golden string. "I am merely working on changing the boy over, my lord. The Qiao still lives, but we can use this to our advantage."
"How so?" Cao Cao eyed the letter, but nothing less as he waited for the full explanation.
"Lord Sun Ce has a liking to the Qiao, as well as Lu Xun…" That smile of his only deepened, and Cao Cao never realized how frightening Sima Yi truly looked until now. "The best thing to do is to put more doubt into his mind, doubt that he will not be rescued, that they don't want him back at all."
Raising an eyebrow, the emperor almost laughed, "Somehow I have a feeling we failed with that part, as that ambush today was pretty desperate."
Sima Yi was prepared for that question as well, getting on Cao Cao's nerves. "Yes, however… they only attacked, but not once did they send a task force. If we can thwart their attacks for a little bit longer, until we reach our land, then his doubts will have indeed rise, creating a gap of sanity, one that we can easily manipulate."
"Through despair you wish to awake the Bloodwrath within the boy, like his father?" Seeing Sima Yi's nod, Cao Cao quickly disapproved. "It cannot be controlled, not even by the beholder, so what makes you think that you or any of us can control it?"
And, if it was even possible, the man's grin got wider, striking a nerve of fear within Cao Cao's heart. "This is where we use our trump card, the Qiao herself."
"Capture her?"
"No… that would only anger Sun Ce, and he is only rescuing, or attempting to rescue, Lu Xun to please her. He loves her, and if we play our cards right, then we can easily use that against Lu Xun." Sima Yi gave a laugh, an evil laugh, as if he was possessed. "The doubt will strike his soul, while her betrayal will strike his heart… then, the Bloodwrath will awaken, and that will strike the last component, leaving his mind ours to do with as we please."
This plan seemed heartless and cruel, and it looked to be more of a grudge than anything else. However, it looked as if it was going to work better than Zhang He's simple little way, and quicker. "What is your plan?"
Showing the paper, Sima Yi turned to the map he had laid out. "Send a fake troop to attack the small village of Shi Taoshen, to divide their forces, and have this letter sent to Sun Ce and Sun Ce alone… have a mole send it to him. It states the false plan of us going to capture Da Qiao by using Lu Xun as bait."
"And through jealousy you believe that Sun Ce will propose to her?"
"Of course… it would be just like him to do that, and on that night, allow Lu Xun to escape, for him to return to see that his one, true love had turned against him. With the combined forces of the lost pursuit and the betrayal to his heart, he will be overwhelmed with such pain and anger…"
Now Cao Cao was REALLY afraid of Sima Yi, as he accepted the letter. "I like your plan… heartless, but nevertheless a good plan. I expect no less from you."
Sima Yi gave a humble bow, "I suggest we start this as soon as possible, my Lord… we will not have another opportunity such as now."
"Agreed…" Cao Cao then left from the tent, finally relieved from that horrible tension in the air. He knew how enraged his strategist was, but he had a feeling that it was out of hand now. It was coming to the point that it was getting too personal for his likings, however, it was the only thing they had…
Seeing him leave made Sima Yi growl, turning to tear up the map in a fit of rage. "Heartless, am I?! Then am I TRULY the only one that sees the real demon behind all of this?! Have they all fallen to his mad charm? He will pay for what he did… and he will pay well…"
How he relished in the words, collapsing onto the cot in a fit of laughter. How he wished to see the look on that poor demon's sad little face, to return to see Da Qiao with another man, his lord. How he yearned to hear the sorrowful cries, the ones that he himself sang so many times.
His pain was not enough though… he would make all the ones he loved suffer as well.
"In the end, little brat… I will win… just you wait*."
*- Song Queue… 'Just you wait, Henry Higgins, just you wait!' Gonna write a parody to that song. My Fair Lady… such an evil musical.
~*~*~*~
It was a celebration that many found welcoming, and who better to welcome it then Lord Lu Jun himself. Many hours have they spend, decorating this little village, watching as it was coated with exotic flowers, silken shawls, and brightly-lit lanterns. It was the time of the New Year, and many were invited into the city as they released their worries and stress for this one night of fun.
Perhaps it was most welcoming to the son of Lu Jun, as he sat in his chambers, waiting for the maidens to finish helping him dress. He was thankful to be relieved of the vigorous training that his father had put him through, as he was clothes heavily for this event. For the feast, he was to sit by his father, and that meant that he was to be seen by the many lords. His father wished for him to remain silent, as he wished to be unseen, in fear of them seeing his scratches and bruises.
The maidens knew this, finding nothing but the finest clothing to distract the lords' eyes from the welts all over Lu Xun's arms and face. They had to apply make-up as well, to cover the darkness around Lu Xun's black eye. They did not wish to arouse suspicion, in fear of the lord losing his good name to Lord Sun Jian.
There were to be two special appearances tonight for the festivities. The Royal Sun family had decided to pay them a visit, as well as a traveling fair. It was to be Lu Xun's first fair ever, and he was just as excited about it as he was timid.
Now they gathered around the table, the great Royal family of Sun, the Duke Qiao and his family, and the host, the Lu family of Wujun. At the time, Lu Jun was known as Lu Yu, and his son was named Lu Yi. The name Jun came from his father before him, who sat silent at his side, and it would not be long before he took the name for himself. He had expected his son to do the same when he came of age, but there were many things he expected from his only child.
It was the first time Lu Xun had ever met the Sun Family, eyeing them with mild interest, as a peasant would look to a king and his family. Sun Jian was meant to be a leader, just by looks alone, and his charisma was astounding, unlike his own father.
Lady Wu had a face so dear, so serene that it was this time when Lu Xun begged for a mother of his own. She had long since died, and the only thing Lu Xun had of her were a golden necklace and a faint memory of a warm summer day, seeing only her smile as her beautiful but worry-stained face eclipsed the sun. Oh, how he wish he could see her again.
Then there were the children, two boys and a girl. If Lu Xun knew better, he would have realized that a fourth baby was on the way by the bulging belly of Lady Wu, however, he observed the ones that were there. The oldest, a real troublemaker, named Sun Ce, the middle child, envious of his older brother but a boy of his own, Sun Quan, and the youngest, the baby-girl named Sun Shang Xiang.
So this was the Royal Sun family, soon to be the founders of the kingdom of Wu. Nevertheless, Lu Xun was rather pleased to meet them and welcomed their presence. When others were around, his father never struck him…
Before the meal had started, Lu Xun was ordered to remain silent and to only speak when he was spoken to. All kids were told that, but they were not threatened within an inch of their life as he was, so he made perfectly sure that he was not to utter a sound, until either Sun Jian or the Qiao's father mentioned him.
So far, they had not. Sun Jian had just finished introducing his family, and he continued with the formalities, as Lu Xun kept perfectly still and quite, not daring to touch the food in front of him until everyone else did. He was almost ignored, but much to his relief, relieved from the hated glare from his father. He knew better then to anger and shame his father now, as he looked down at the food. Somehow, he lost his appetite.
Lu Xun was used to this by now, to be looked over by others and berated by his father. Ever since that incident, nothing's been the same for the poor little boy of Wujun. He often hated himself at times, but the thought of suicide never came across his mind, never wishing to shame his father like that. He was sure his father loved him... did he?
"Who is the bright young man sitting next to you?" He heard Sun Jian ask, as the man had just finished introducing his family. It was frightening for Lu Xun, as all eyes turned to him, and it was his father who spoke, not giving his son a chance to speak.
"Forgive me for not introducing my own to you earlier, sir. This is my son, Lu Yi." Lu Jun said this with much speed, as if he wished to change the simple topic of introduction. He ignored the slighted look on his son's face as he continued, "He's five and will be my successor of Wujun."
Lu Xun saw a smile rise from Sun Jian, one that a good father would have given to his own son. It was then when the boy realized that he wanted a family like the Sun. Not a royal family, but one as kind as his. He was so envious that he barely heard the question for him, "So, little Lu Yi, you're not giving your father any trouble, are you?"
So frightened that someone actually acknowledged him, Lu Xun searched for the courage to speak back without stuttering, automatically tensing up as if to await the blow from his glaring father. "I've been a good boy, Lord Sun Jian..."
Oh, if you could have heard the rich laughter that rose from the man, you would have easily felt Lu Xun's relief flutter like the butterflies in his stomach. He had feared of upsetting his father, who gave a forced smile. He was as good as dead when they left, but he didn't care, as the laughter was contagious to many at the table.
"Charming kid you have there, sir."
If only Lu Xun could absorb the compliments then, as the rest of the conversation evolved into talk of the upcoming struggle with the Yellow Turban menace and war. Being ignored again, Lu Xun was perfectly content by just envying the family before him, wishing all the more that things were different here. He did not think of wars outside of the walls of Wujun, but the war that took place in this very castle, within the training hall. He did not fear soldiers draped in yellow turbans, but more he feared of his father's blinded rage...
And, as he laid there, shivering under the star-filled sky, with nothing but his clothes and a torn rag as his blanket, he found himself still envying the Sun family. Sun Ce, Sun Quan, and Sun Shang Xiang did not realize how lucky they were, to have a father who did not beat them everyday and a mother that cared for them so dearly. They were lucky they even had a mother.
Sometimes Lu Xun found himself berating many people who take their parents for granted, but he would say nothing to them. When Gan Ning would badmouth his mother for raising him up on a pirate boat, he would merely sneer at the comment but keep his silence. No one wished to hear his opinion on such personal matters, especially if he had none to give. How could he speak of a mother if he did not have one?
He wondered why he found himself so jealous of others, even now as he laid shivering, huddling into a ball in a sad attempt to keep himself warm. Zhang He could have cared less, as he slept besides him, hogging the blankets. The only way to get to the blankets was to cuddle with him, and he refused, accepting the consequences.
Everyone else was so lucky... so very, very lucky that they were not raised in his shoes. He gave a weak laugh, feeling the rush of tears rise. They knew nothing of his pain, and he wished truly now that it would not be his father to save him. He'd rather die in the hands of the Wei than to go back to that hell he used to call home. He said the same thing when he was younger, grabbing his great uncle's swords and fleeing from Wujun on a pure white steed that his father had owned. It was his favorite horse, but he did not care, forgetting his fear in the attempt to escape.
He prayed for Zhou Yu, or Da Qiao, or anyone but his father. He almost hated his father as it was... and he did not wish to go back into his hands, only to be ridiculed and beaten for letting himself be captured like this.
Among his shivering and chattering teeth, he heard footsteps, ones that stopped right next to him. He couldn't see the figure, except for the feet, and he remained silent, not wishing to address the emperor now. Maybe if he stayed perfectly still, he would go away.
No, he heard him give a sigh, and he heard the ripping of clothes. Before he could look up, he felt some kind of clothing being draped on him, and the footsteps began and left from him, leaving him alone once again. It did not take long for Lu Xun to look at his new blanket, instantly recognizing the design to be of Lord Cao Cao's. Why would Cao Cao care enough to lend him his cape?
Still, he wasn't going to return it, not just yet, and he was quick, wrapping himself within the large cape and seeking warmth in that. He would probably ask later, but he did not wish to know, to be honest. It was all too strange, much to strange for him... and he did what he usually did as a kid, letting himself cry himself to sweet, tender sleep. He only prayed that no one, especially Cao Cao, heard his soft sobs.
~*~*~*~
Lu Meng dedicated himself to the nightly guard duty in an attempt to think to himself. He rather enjoyed the time he set aside just for him and his thoughts, and tonight was nothing different of the sort, requesting not to be bothered unless it was an emergency.
So now, the experienced general stood guard, ignoring the chill in the air as he stood poised, his battle worn halberd at his side and his tired eyes keen and alert. The night was just as silent as he was, until a small argument broke out from a nearby tent.
"Sir, I am sure their security will be doubled, even tripled, after our last assault, and attacking tonight would be foolish." Zhou Yu proposed, speaking against Sun Ce's plan of a night raid. Lu Meng could only agree with the strategist, knowing good and well that Cao Cao was anything but ignorant right now. "They will be expecting a raid, and I'm sure they sent scouts."
Sun Ce gave a hearty laugh, one that Lu Meng guessed was aimed to impress the fair maiden that had accompanied them on their mission. That was what fueled his desire for battle, to merely impress Da Qiao. Had he no intention of saving Lu Xun at all?
"But if they were expecting it, wouldn't it be the best time to attack?" Sun Ce asked, cracking his knuckles and giving a rather snide remark. "After an attack like that, I don't think they would recuperate in enough time for tonight, and now they're pretty much vulnerable."
Hearing Zhou Yu's sigh, Lu Meng only guessed that Zhou Yu had the safety of the young boy in mind. "Attacking in such an area could be dangerous. We don't know the terrain, and we could very well harm Lu Xun."
Now Da Qiao spoke up, her voice full of concern. "Lord Sun Ce, I think we should listen to Zhou Yu… as flattered as I am that you will run head first into battle, I don't wish for any harm to come to either you, Lu Xun, or our men."
She nearly lost her voice when she spoke his name, and Lu Meng rose an eyebrow, remaining poise and alert. "Relax, Da Qiao… I know Zhou Yu is right. He always is… and I promise that we'll get him back without harming a single little hair on his little body."
Once again, Lu Meng had to turn his head from his duties, as he watched Sun Ce practically storm out of the tent, fists curled into balls and his teeth clenched. Lu Meng did not follow him, though, trying to remain concerned to his duties as he heard Da Qiao speak softly to Zhou Yu. "Did I say something wrong?"
"No, you didn't say anything wrong, dear…" Zhou Yu lied, rubbing his temples slightly and groaning from the rising headache. He knew it would have been best to speak with Sun Ce now, but his head simply could not take it right now. "He just… doesn't like to be told no."
"I see… well, I should be off now. I wish you sweet sleep."
It was quiet again, and Lu Meng gave a low sigh, wondering exactly how much he was missing. Nevertheless, the love 'triangle' they had going on should be the last thing on his mind as he returned to his chore, keeping his complete attention into that.
He hoped that Lu Xun would return soon, he thought with a sigh. The longer he stayed within his hands, the more worrisome Lu Meng, as well as several others, became.
~*~*~*~
Sun Ce was almost beyond upset, as he found a nice little area just for himself, and he took out his anger on a poor branch that hung sadly from an even more depressing looking tree. He tore it away and shredded the leaves with his hands, giving a low growl before throwing it to the ground to bury it under his boots. Damn that Lu Xun!
It wasn't too often that Sun Ce got angry, but when he was, he was a walking time bomb. He sat under the depressing tree with a gruff, brooding to himself about how much he despised the little brat right now.
No, he certainly didn't hate Lu Xun, but the jealousy within him only built up, to the point that he almost DID hate him. What did that little brat, who was five years younger than Da Qiao, have that HE didn't?
"Da Qiao deserves MORE than that…" He grumbled to himself, trying his best, his very best, to control his anger. "I'm much stronger than him… HE'S the one who got himself caught, dammit, HE should let himself go."
Even saying that seemed wrong, and he knew it, giving a weak sigh and laying on the grass now, to look at the stars. His anger had quickly transformed into sorrow, and right now, he longed for Da Qiao the most. He loved her; he loved her since the first day he met her at that celebration at Wujun. And yet, she cared more for the boy than him, a man that could give her so much more?
It made no sense!
Now, his sorrow was overwhelmed by sheer determination, fueled by the desire of one, single woman. He was GOING to win her heart, and he was going to do it by saving that little brat. "Da Qiao will be mine… this will be a fight that I will NOT lose!"
And Sun Ce meant that…
Now, to the person that was sitting in the tree, hearing this wasn't such a good thing. Pang Tong didn't really want to listen to Sun Ce's words, but it seemed impossible to just ignore him. Giving a little whistle, he scratched his nose, trying to go back to meditating. "Well… THAT certainly doesn't sound good…"
~*~*~*~
The stables seemed untouched, though almost empty. He supposed that the Wei had stolen a few of his good horses, but the one that caught his attention the most was the sickly and wounded gray steed that once belonged to Lord Liu Bei. Wei had found the poor beast useless and left him behind... to die.
Lu Jun approached the horse, not knowing who it belonged to or where it came from, but the tired steed rose its great head to look at him, its hazy black eyes sparkling with hope. Kneeling next to it, he stroked his soft, gray coat, sighing deeply. "Not even a horse is safe from their cruel ways."
The horse could not answer, and Zhao Yun arrived, not meaning to sneak up on the lord. "Lord Lu Jun, the troops are ready to depart now."
"Good... I found that last battle to be quite lacking, at least for me." Lu Jun stroked the beast's side, as he turned to one of the soldiers nearby. "Make sure that this horse is properly taken care of... he looks to be of some importance."
As the soldiers went to obey, Zhao Yun looked at the horse for himself, complete shock overcoming him, "That's my Lord's steed! I remember that they had stolen it as they were retreating..."
Hearing the familiar voice of Zhao Yun, the horse tried to rise, to greet him, however, it was far too weak from starvation and maltreatment to succeed, and Lu Jun helped calm it down, pushing it back down gently. He was so kind to this horse, and Zhao Yun couldn't understand how one could be kind to strangers and creatures, but not to his own kin.
"Then when your lord joins us in battle, he can gladly take his steed back if it lives beyond the night." Giving the horse one last stroke, Lu Jun rose, walking alongside the warrior as they surveyed the troops. Instantly, Lu Jun had spotted the masked warrior, already mounted and waiting to pursue the enemy. "How's Wei Yan?"
Taking a look at him himself, Zhao Yun sighed, "Hasn't spoken a word sense he woke up... not a grunt or a sound."
"Is he normally like that after a battle?"
The bleak look told all, and Lu Jun mounted his steed, taking a look at the masked warrior that sat as silent as a dead horse next to him. He could tell by the stiffness of his jaw that he was not just sitting there, but thinking as well. He wondered what was going on in that head of his, but he said nothing, turning his horse around to face his troops. "Tonight we will find the Wei and we will show them no mercy! Long have they committed such crimes against the innocent, and it is time that we make them pay!"
They gave their approval through a shout, and it was not long before the forces began their move, following behind the three main generals in the front. Lu Jun hoped to find the Wei forces quickly, but the thought of Wei Yan losing even more of himself bore into his mind. Right now, he was thankful that his own son had nothing of the Bloodwrath within him, in fear of his son, his brilliant but weak son, turning into this.
"Grrr..." Wei Yan gave a sneer, catching Lu Jun off guard slightly. He spoke his first words for the day, aiming them directly at the lord of Wujun. "Stop... stare. Angers me..."
"Tell me, Wei Yan... are you afraid of what you would become if you were not ruled by the Bloodwrath? Does the thought of a new life frighten you to where you do not want to be lifted from the curse?"
That was a question indeed... one that Wei Yan had decided not to answer. Instead, he returned to his silent state, leaving Lu Jun to shake his head as they continued their pursuit.