Author's note: Ohhh, I love this chapter. I worked hard on it and I hope
you guys like it too. More is coming soon, I promise! I hope y'all like
this one (17 pages long!!!)
Enjoy!
Part 3
Romance of the Four Leaders
Chapter 38
An Everlasting Promise
When Zhang He crept out of his tent early in the morning, rubbing his puffy eyes and yawning, he discovered the ground was covered in a thick blanket of snow. After looking back at the tent he found its roof was sagging under a large mound as well. He crawled back inside and shook Sima Yi and Zhou Yu awake. Sun Ce grunted violently and rolled over, putting his hands over his head to block out the sound.
"Come on, Sun Ce, get up." Zhang He said, kicking his gently as he stood up. Sun Ce pulled the blanket around his head and complained in a muffled voice underneath it. "Alright, but when the tent collapses on you you're not going to like it." No answer. Zhang He shrugged and ushered the other two outside in the cold.
"Good Heavens, it's freezing out here!" Exclaimed Sima Yi, grabbing his skinny arms and rubbing them for warmth.
"We're getting dressed in warmer clothes now. We're going to head up the mountain to check things out before everyone goes." Zhang He explained. Neither of them looked very happy, but nobody complained. They gathered the straw snow-hats and straw raincoats and put on protective shoes. Then came the hard part.
In nearly an hour they had made it a good way's up. It was definitely much harder to breathe, as Sima Yi explained, but even harder to climb. Nine out of ten times they sunk in the snow and were quickly out of breath. By noon the surroundings suddenly changed. Instead of the vicious, steep climb, it flattened out to a wide and spacious flat ground. Every which way stood pine trees, snow covered bridges and half frozen rivers. The snow sparkled in flawless heaps, frosting the world like an unc=even cake.
"This is the place for sure. I remember it, I think . . ." Sima Yi said, his feet crunching on the snow as he stepped a it forward. The air was clear and crisp and it was beautiful day.
"Whomever wishes to, please go back down and get the others? We now know we're on the right track and the path should be easier now." Zhou Yu was first to volunteer, though he did it halfheartedly, still panting some from the climb.
After nearly an hour of waiting, the rest of the party showed up. Ning led the way, blasting forward at full speed over the hill. The second he saw all the untouched snow he bellowed a mighty 'NING!' and leapt into the undisturbed powder, spaying flakes in all directions. Then came Xiao Qiao singing a cute little song between deep breaths and prancing next to Zhou Yu, as usual. Zhou Tai was close behind them, eyeing his son with some dislike as if daring for him to take Xiao Qiao's hand. Mitsuko pulled herself up the steep trail, holding her Katana in the air like a hiking staff, followed by Sun Ce, who still looked grumpy and fatigued. Afterwards were Sun Shang Xiang and Da Qiao, who were engaged in a deep conversation about something Zhang He couldn't understand from what they were saying at the moment. Bringing up the rear was a solitary Diao Chan, looking tired and harrowed from the difficult climb.
"Great, they all made it." Zhang He said to Sima Yi and he went to greet Diao Chan. Once they had joined up with her, Zhang He sought out Zhou Yu. He was still being stalked by Zhou Tai and was speaking uncomfortably with Xiao Qiao, looking back at the towering man behind him every few seconds.
"Hey, Zhou Yu." Sima Yi addressed him. He looked over at the threesome.
"Hello." He answered shortly.
"Zhang He, where are we? Are we going to go home soon? I'm cooold . . ." Xiao Qiao whined.
"I don't know, Xiao Qiao. We've got to find Sima Hua, and I really don't know exactly where he lives." Zhang He explained.
"Zhou Yuuuu . . ." She whimpered "I'm tired. Will you please carry me on your back?" She asked, her eyes sparkling innocently. Zhou Yu looked a bit flattered and his cheeks flushed pink.
"Of c-course . . ." He stammered Xiao Qiao squealing with delight and jumping energetically on his back, her hands locking around his neck.
"Get off of him right now. . ." Growled Zhou Tai fiercely. Xiao Qiao looked a bit frightened and with wide eyes slid off Zhou Yu's back. She then took a couple of steps backward and hid behind Zhou Yu, poking her head out cautiously.
"Father . . ." Zhou Yu complained indignantly. "What are you doing?"
"You are a respectable man, you will not be ridden by a woman like some sort of worthless beast." He said harshly. Zhou Yu looked like he was about to give in for a moment, then he regained his courage with a visible expression.
"Then I'll carry her, instead." He said with a fierce disposition. Before Zhou Tai could say anything more, Zhou Yu seized Xiao Qiao and marched off proudly.
"That boy . . ." Snarled Zhou Tai. "He'll be knocked off his high horse one of these days, and then he'll see . . ." The rest of the group passed by them and across the snow frosted bridge.
Zhang He and Diao Chan exchanged looks but Sima Yi did nothing.
"That was a bit harsh, don't you think? Zhou Yu and Xiao Qiao were only having a bit of fun." Diao Chan stated once Zhou Tai was out of earshot.
"Yeah, I think Zhou Yu did the right thing." Zhang He said, feeling a bit proud of his brother for standing up finally. Sima Yi was still silent.
"I wonder why Zhou Tai is like that . . ." Diao Chan mused with a finger on her lower lip.
"I bet it has something to do with Zhou Yu's mother. Have you ever seen her? Once?" Zhang He pointed out.
"No, but I've never seen Sun Ce's mother either, and I know for a fact she's fine. Sun Shang Xiang told me so." Diao Chan said, putting up a good argument.
"Yes, but Zhou Tai has issues. I mean, he still treats Zhou Yu like he's a ten year old. I've got to know why . . .," Zhang He said, wondering if even his masterful eavesdropping skills could help him this time.
"Why don't you . . ." Sima Yi began warily. "Just leave him alone . . ." Zhang He looked over at him, looking a bit surprised.
"What did you say?" He asked. Sima Yi stopped and looked at his feet.
"Well, it's not really any of your business. If you ask him and he tells you I suppose that's alright, but you shouldn't pry into his personal life. Zhou Tai has every right to treat him that way, it's his decision." Sima Yi answered strongly. "A father has infinite control over his son and this right shouldn't be tampered with." Zhang He narrowed his eyes a bit and felt a severe annoyance poke out in his chest.
"Just because your father took advantage of you and made you suffer doesn't mean anyone's father can. And maybe I want to find out what actually happened, no harm will come of that." Zhang He replied savagely. Diao Chan looked up at him as if pleading to apologize now so this wouldn't evolve to something more.
"You're wrong, Zhang He! I know you don't like hearing that you're wrong, but you are. It's not a nice thing to do. You seem to enjoy violating people's privacy. If you were a strong man you'd stop right now." Sima Yi challenged. Zhang He, feeling Diao Chan's piercing stare, decided he'd better stop right now. All he needed now was to be in a fight with Sima Yi. He sighed, but then an idea came to him.
"Alright, I'll stop if you show me you're a strong man, too." He said coolly, a grin appearing on his lips. "If YOU were a strong man, you'd tell Sun Shang Xiang how you feel." Sima Yi gasped quietly for second.
"Th-that's not the same thing." He answered almost shaking at the prospect.
"Ohh, right it's different if it concerns you doing something you don't want to, I forgot." Zhang He said, sounding cocky. He smiled despite himself, his plan was working perfectly.
"Quiet! I can tell Sun Shang Xiang how I feel anytime I want!" Sima Yi declared, suddenly realizing his pride had just gotten him locked in an inescapable trap.
"Alright, then tonight. Tell her tonight, and I have to witness it." Zhang He said, hands on his hips.
"B-but . . ."
"Wait, wait. . ." Zhang He interrupted, almost laughing. "Did you not just say?"
"Yes! I said it . . ." Sima Yi said angrily, stomping his foot down. It was funny to see Sima Yi acting fierce, being only 5' 5".
"Then you'll follow through?" Zhang He asked, eyebrow raised.
"I s-suppose." Sima Yi said, sounding defeated. "But . . . But . . ."
"What?"
"I don't know how . . ." Sima Yi answered, playing with the snow in the ground with his shoe.
"What're you talking about?" Zhang He asked, growing exasperated. " Just say 'Sun Shang Xiang, I love you.'"
"I can't just walk up to her and say that! She'd think it's weird, and Sun Ce will be there . . . He'll make fun of me . . ." Sima Yi said, a patch of pink appearing on his face.
"Look, when it's about twilight walk to where she is and announce that you're going for a walk because it's such a nice place. She'll come with you, she always does." Zhang He explained.
"But wait! What if she doesn't?" Sima Yi interrupted, whining with fear.
"Then invite her. As I was saying . . ."
"But she'll know something is up if I do that! She's going to reject me, Zhang He! This will ruin everything, don't make me!" He said on the verge of hysterics.
"Calm down, calm down! She won't reject you! Now, once you two get into the forest, Diao Chan and I will follow behind you silently. Then bring her into a clearing and sit her down. Then sit beside her, really close beside her. Then start a conversation and casually lay an arm across her shoulders. Then change the subject to something tragic and when she is crying and hopelessly put your arms . . ." Zhang He started, but Sima Yi interrupted again.
"No way, uh-uh. This is getting too intimate. She'll think I'm a pervert, taking her out all the way in the forest then moving in! It's wrong. The whole thing's off." Sima Yi protested, shaking his head.
"For Heaven's sake, Sima Yi! She's going to be your wife someday! Why are you afraid? You do love her, right?" Zhang He said.
"Yes, of course, but I'm afraid, Zhang He. I've never done anything like this before, I'm frightened." He admitted.
"That's alright, it's ok to be afraid. Just go through with it. I was terrified when I first kissed Diao Chan, don't you remember?" He asked Diao Chan. She smiled sweetly at him.
"I sure do. We had to try three times, people kept walking in on us and attacking us and all sorts of things happened. But when it finally happened . . . ." She looked dreamy and rested her head on Zhang He's shoulder. He blushed a bit and slipped a hand around her waist.
"Can you just . . . show me?" Sima Yi asked, scratching his head worriedly. "So I'll have a point of reference?" Zhang He nodded.
"Look, I'll be you and Diao Chan will be Sun Shang Xiang." Zhang He said. "Pretend we're in the forest."
He walked over to a stump near to them and brushed off the snow. He gestured to Diao Chan and she sat down and he nonchalantly sat beside her so that their hips were touching. He looked over at Sima Yi. Sima Yi nodded, showing that he understood and Zhang He continued.
"This place is sure beautiful, eh, Sun Shang Xiang?" Zhang He said clearly and without emotion.
"Oh, yes. I love the snow." Diao Chan answered, her voice dripping with mock sincerity.
"It sure reminds me . . . something . . ." Zhang He continued, running out of ideas.
"Oh, something, that's the best." She played along. Zhang He yawned in a phony way and laid his arm on Diao Chan's shoulders.
"Now's, here's the tricky part. You've got to watch her body language. If she's looks uncomfortable and start biting her nails or something, scoot away from her and cough innocently like nothing happened. Then just really take a walk and go home in failure." Sima Yi looked a bit discouraged, but said nothing. "And if she blushes a bit, or smiles or leans against you, you'll know you're on the right track." A worry line appeared on Sima Yi's forehead but he nodded nonetheless.
"Now, comes the toughest part. The tragic conversation. You've got to be careful not to offend her, which could end in disaster. But you've got to be able to tell the difference between offending and feigned toughness." Diao Chan lectured.
"Try something like this: 'It must have been very tough losing your father.'" Zhang He started.
"Knowing Sun Shang Xiang, she'll probably lie and say something like: 'No way, I don't need people like him to tell me what to do.' Or something of the sort." Diao Chan said and bit hopelessly.
"Now, I wouldn't know really what to here, but try 'You don't have to act tough around me. I can understand if you're upset or if your brothers would think it's babyish to be sad.'"
"Oh, yes, these past few weeks have been agony for me. All I see when I try to fall asleep is his face when he died, burned into the back of my mind. I stay up all night crying and wishing I had someone to condole with." Diao Chan whined melodramatically. She made counterfeit weeping sounds and covered her face with her hands. Zhang He took her firmly in his arms and she buried her face in his chest and weakly grabbed him round the middle.
"Oh, Sun Shang Xiang. I never knew. You should have said something or come to me. I'll do anything for you." Zhang He said, just as dramatically as Diao Chan.
"But why, Sima Yi, why?" She asked tearfully.
"Because I love you!" Zhang He announced and kissed her in a picture perfect way. Once they were done they both stood up and smiled.
"That's about it." Said Diao Chan, wiping some snow off her front.
"That's hard to remember. I think maybe . . ." Sima Yi began, but Zhang He stopped him.
"No. You're doing it tonight whether you like it or not." Zhang He said, laying down the law. "Of course if you don't want to do it, I can always tell her for you . . ." Zhang He smiled cruelly. Sima Yi's eyes went wide and he shook his head vigorously. Suddenly, Mitsuko called back to them.
"Hey! What are you three doing back there? Hurry up, or we'll leave you behind!" She yelled, her person a tiny silhouette about 100 feet away from them. Zhang he started to run towards her. As he passed by Sima Yi he whispered "Tonight" at him, which Sima Yi returned with a worried look. Finally, he would be able to make the match he had wanted for so long to be true. He loved Sima Yi and Sun Shang Xiang both and nothing would make him happier than to have them be together as a couple. Well, Diao Chan marrying him might make him happier . . .
It seemed tonight couldn't come fast enough. The trudged on through the shallow banks, everyone slipping once or twice, requiring someone to pull them out. More and more Zhang He began to realize that they were not just lucky, the tree were cut in a definite path. They were definitely going somewhere, winding down this silvery path of nature. The cool breeze made everyone's hair dance vaguely and it seemed that Zhang He's misty gray eyes could pick up more in the quiet environment, for movement seemed scarce. At times a huge heap of snow would plummet down suddenly from the boughs of the deep green pine trees and crash down to earth, making a soft thunk noise and Zhang He's every nerve would go on end. One time Xiao Qiao, whom was now walking again, stopped to look at a tree.
"I heard if you yell you can cause an avalanche!" She said energetically to Zhou Yu. He nodded.
"Yes, and that's why you should be quie -" He began, but Xiao Qiao had decided that since she was being told not to do something, she'd better do it. She yelled at the top of her lungs and stared hopefully up at the tree. Naturally, a mound loosened itself and came down on Xiao Qiao, knocking her too the ground. Zhou Yu stepped back suddenly, but the kneeled on the snow in front of him and began to dig her out. Soon she was excavated from the enormous pile, shivering and stunned.
"W-was the an avalanche?" She asked, still sounding woozy and stepping around like she was dizzy.
"No, but don't do it again. When I tell you something, it's generally correct." He scolded gently.
"Yes, Zhou Yu." She said obediently, brushing snow off her front. Once things had quieted down, Zhang He's heart returned to feeling like her was no longer in the same world. It was like this place was sacred, perfect. This was perhaps a place where deities dwelled, and they, the ignorant humans, were trespassing like fools, destroying their perfect world. The silent sadness was broken by the abrupt and careless footsteps of men. He suddenly realized he was letting his mind wander, and no such thing could be, but it still made him feel uneasy. He looked around for Diao Chan and located her, socializing with Sun Shang Xiang and Da Qiao. At once they broke into a chorus of girlish giggles, pointing at Zhou Tai behind his back. When he turned around to see what the source was they grew quiet and their faces went straight. As soon as he turned back they exchanged proud glances and began whispering rapidly again, looking at different people as they spoke. Zhang He turned away from them, grinning at their silly innocence. He would never understand women, but he loved them all the same.
Soon Zhang He's thoughts turned to Zhou Yu again. 'You did it twice Sun Ce, you pushed me in, and you pushed her in! She died because of you, Sun Ce! YOU KILLED HER!' Zhang He remembered Zhou Yu's face on that day. On the verge of tears, he looked scared and helpless, not anything like the Zhou Yu he knew. He then thought of Zhou Yu's normal expression. Placid, calm, charming, pampered yet not spoiled, a complete gentleman (expensive robes and all), a certain all-knowing light behind his light brown eyes, a lovely color that sometime appeared yellow in the right lighting, but there was something that shone through, even though you couldn't see it. There was also sadness in those eyes, Zhang He now realized, a sadness well hidden, well masked, but it remain nonetheless. He also realized how when Zhou Yu smiled his eyes still possessed that doleful shade. He eyebrows never moved to show he was sad, his lips formed a grin, but the eyes truly showed what he felt. Zhou Yu was a great person; Zhang He knew they would always have the strongest bond of friendship. He smiled at Zhou Yu's uncanny ability to mediate any disagreement without losing his cool, he superior knowledge of any and all musical instruments, he vast awareness of difficulty dances, and not to mention he could paint. Zhou Yu was also smart, he was almost up to par with Sima Yi in intelligence, and that was saying something. So everything with him was wonderful, right?
After another hour or two, the sun was directly at eyes level, making everyone squint and shade their eyes with their hand. Sun Ce walked up powerfully to Zhang He and matched his gait beside him.
"How're we doing?" He asked, fingering the tiny beard on his chin. "Can we set up camp yet? I'm tired."
"Just a little more. I want to cover as much ground as we can before the light is gone." Zhang He explained. Sun Ce sighed.
"More walking . . ." He whined. "I remember the good ol' days when me and my brother and sister and Zhou Yu used to stay inside all day during the winter. I'd just sit in front of the fire all day and make Sun Quan get things for me. That was the best. I didn't even have to move or change out of my sleeping robes." He looked dreamy, probably holding on tenderly to memory. Zhang He laughed
"You're just lazy." He reprimanded jokingly.
"Yeah, I guess." He smiled mischievously. "Naw, not lazy, just . . . laid back." They were quiet for a moment while Zhang He fiddled with the thought of telling Sun Ce about Sima Yi's upcoming exploits. He knew Sun Ce might act violently to it, and he didn't want to spoil his good mood, but then again, he might act even more violently to finding out afterwards. Zhang He decided he'd better tell him. He would tell him, but tell him gently, so as not to arouse his ire.
"Hey, Sun Ce . . ." He said warily, alerting his attention.
"Hm?" Sun Ce answered calmly, scooping up some snow from the side of the road.
"You're alright with - are you eating that snow?" He asked as Sun Ce put some powder in his mouth. He nodded blissfully, melting snowflakes all over his face as he sucked the remainder of snow off his fingers. Zhang He shook his head, forgetting Sun Ce's strangeness and went on. "As I was saying, you have no hard feelings about . . . Sima Yi and Sun Shang Xiang, right?" Sun Ce stiffened and suddenly looked serious.
"Why?" His eyes were so steely and he failed in an attempt to look fierce because of the melting snow on his face. Zhang He was about to tell him the truth but a rich idea struck him. One so good, he absolutley couldn't pass the opportunity up, he had to do it.
"Well.," He started, fight hard to hold back a grin. "She's pregnant." Sun Ce's eyes went wide and his jaw hung open.
"WHAT?" He bellowed, this time successfully looking fierce. He head snapped over to look at Sima Yi, innocently, yet reproachfully tramping through the endless white. His lips formed a snarl. "I'm going to kill him! That mother f-" Zhang He's little prank had gone on far enough and he interrupted before Sun Ce could start screaming profanity.
"I'm kidding, I'm kidding!" He shouted through fits of unstoppable laughter at Sun Ce. "I'm sorry. . . I couldn't resist." He said wiping a tear from his eye. Sun Ce stood, looking stupid when he suddenly realized he'd been tricked.
"Ha ha, Zhang He, very funny." He spat, looking embarrassed. "You just put Sima Yi's life at risk. I was about ready to knock his head clean off."
"Sorry, but that was really funny. You should have seen you face." He said, shaking off the remainder of his folly. "Anyway, you're alright with them?" Sun Ce nodded, though a bit grudgingly.
"Good, then. You won't beat him up for this." Zhang He teased, peaking Sun Ce's interest.
"Whaddaya mean?" Sun Ce asked, picking up the pace once again.
"Well, tonight he's telling her how he feels, I tricked him into it. I thought you ought to know, seeing as you're the one she belongs to ever since your father died." Zhang He explained. Sun Ce pondered grudgingly for a moment.
"Yeah, she oughta be alright with him." He said at last. Some of the fight had drained from his eyes while he spoke. "She's is getting older and marriage is imminent for someone like her. I s'pose it's better than selling her off to some old fat guy in return for land or something. I'll at least know she's being treated right. But . . . you know . . . it's kind of sad. Ever since she could talk, she's always looked up to me. She fakes hating me sometimes, and I do too, but she'll always be my little sis. It'll be weird not having sis there to go on adventures with, to just joke with, to be in the family. I'll miss protecting her, but I know Sima Yi will be as good as any . . . " He finished.
"It's not like she's getting married yet, or anything." Zhang He said, trying to condole.
"Not yet anyway. But trust me, she will. Then we might never see each other again . . ."
"Hey, that's not true. We're getting the mansion together, remember? All eight of us! We'll always be together. In fact, you'll probably see her so much you'll get sick of her!" Zhang He said optimistically. Sun Ce smiled.
"Yeah, you're right! Once this war is over, a new dynasty will take place and we can all live happily ever after in our giant mansion!" Sun Ce cheered. Zhang He smiled too.
"Well, Sun Ce, you'll be happy to hear that we are stopping for today." Zhang He announced as he stopped walking. "This should be a good place everyone! Let's set up the tents and get some dinner going."
After everyone had set down their packs, they all got to work. Zhang He and the other men, except Gan Ning who was busy making a fool of himself, worked hard to put up the tents, one by one. The four, large, dome shaped tents were put up by pushing several of the poles around in a circle, then putting up basic framework on the top. An hour later, After the cloths were laid over them, the six of the rounded the corner to the center of their camp to see what the women were cooking. Mitsuko had stoked her miraculous fire and Diao Chan was busy cooking something in a large iron pot that smelled wonderful. Inside was a creamy, light yellow stew with hunks of potatoes, carrots, celery, and mushrooms. She talked busily while she stirred, teaching Mitsuko, Xiao and Da Qiao how to do it.
"Where'd you get all that stuff?" Sun Ce asked, attempting to put his finger in for a taste test. She slapped his hand gently away and answered his query.
"I brought it all before we left. I knew we'd all be cold up here, so I was saving it for the most frigid night, so at least our insides can be warm." She said.
"You're so thoughtful!" Praised Zhang He, smiling happily at her.
Sun Shang Xiang arrived all of a sudden with what looked like an armful of fish along with Mitsuko's makeshift fishing pole.
"The river down there is loaded with them! They can't get out because a big chunk of ice is blocking it, so their eager for some food." Sun Shang Xiang explained, reading their astonished looks. She didn't really seem to care her entire front was wet with water and some fish blood. She walked merrily up to Diao Chan's pot and peered inside.
"That smells great! All I do is dump these guys in there?" She said, just nearly doing it.
"NO!" Said Diao Chan, stopping disaster in its tracks. "They have to be cleaned first. Hand them here."
In a matter of moments Diao Chan had it so the fish were cleaned and the remainder was thrown away. The savory meat was added to her stew and she stirred it once again, making everyone's mouth water. When she finally told everyone to get their bowls, a cheer rang out. Everyone filled their bowls and engaged in a friendly talk. Zhang He noticed Sima Yi was almost silent during dinner and barely touched his food.
Soon after, everyone was full to the brim with Diao Chan's wonderful food. They all lounged around, talking contentedly and laughing. Soon everyone spread out into their own separate groups, sitting on stumps or rocks or whatever happened to be lying around. Zhang He joined up with Diao Chan and together they hunted down Sima Yi. He was sitting alone, looking even more pale than usual, if that was possible. His eyes had a glazed look and he was compulsively chewing his nails. Zhang he heard a soft crack as he nearly bit the entire nail off of his index finger. A bit of blood blossomed out, but he quickly quieted it with his tongue. Zhang He looked at the rest of his fingers to find they also were chewed down to the nub. As Zhang he and Diao Chan stepped in front of him his looked up dazedly, his index finger still stuck in his mouth.
"It's time, Sima Yi." Zhang eh said, a little more ominously than he had wished.
"But. . ." Sima Yi protested helplessly, his voice sounding thick and unused. Zhang He gently grabbed his arm and pulled him to his feet.
"Come on, you won't regret this." He said comfortingly.
"Zhang He . . . I'm not ready for something like this. I don't know what to do. What if -" He said, his lip trembling.
"What if all works out and you two are married in a week? Always look on the bright side of life." Zhang He said, pulling Sima Yi forward.
"Easy for you to say . . . and I'm a pessimist for you information!" Sima Yi squeaked, his voice sounding weak.
"You'll be fine." Diao Chan said sympathetically, putting a hand on his shoulder.. "I know for a fact that she has a crush on you."
"But still . . ." Sima Yi whined, Zhang He still hauling him forward. Zhang He stopped for a moment, scanning the grounds for Sun Shang Xiang. She was sitting on a stump with Xiao Qiao and Da Qiao. She was still smiling and talking animatedly with them.
"No way, no way! There is no way in Hell I'm asking her to come with me if they watch." Sima Yi said, putting his foot down. Zhang He thought rapidly. He turned to Diao Chan.
"Explain the situation to Zhou Yu and Sun Ce. They'll know what to do." He said. Diao Chan nodded and trotted off. Zhang He suddenly noticed that Sima Yi was gone and wheeled around to see him escaping stealthily into the shadows. Zhang He caught him by the arm and yanked him back in front of him.
"Where do you think your going?" He asked a bit testily. Sima Yi whimpered.
"Please, Zhang He, don't make me do this. I'm not cut out for this type of thing! I'll screw it up for sure! Why not just let it happen naturally? Please Zhang He, have a heart! I'm begging you!" Sima Yi whined, fighting desperately for his freedom, but Zhang He was a lot stronger than him and his grip could not be easily loosened.
"This is for you own good." Zhang He said strongly, refusing to let Sima Yi go. A soon as he stopped talking Zhou Yu and Sun Ce bolted out from one of the tents and Diao Chan slipped around the back and in a matter of moment was behind Zhang He, panting slightly. Zhou Yu went up to Xiao Qiao to Sun Ce to Da Qiao and the whispered into their ears. A looked of understanding came over each one of their faces and they both nodded, almost simultaneously. The both stood up and started to follow after Zhou Yu and Sun Ce. Sun Shang Xiang got up, eager to find out what the big secret was, but Sun Ce barred her from advancing. Zhang He could tell they were in skirmish from the vicious expressions they bore and the incoherent shouting. He almost laughed when Sun Shang Xiang leapt on Sun Ce's chest and started beating him ruthlessly. Zhou Yu picked her up from under her armpits, her fist still swinging in Sun Ce's direction. After all the fighting had ceased and Zhou Yu and the rest were gone, she retreated back to the stump, alone and pouting.
"Now is the time, Sima Yi. Now or never." Zhang He announced, pushing him towards her.
"I just know this is going to end in tragedy. I feel so sick, Zhang He. I feel like I might vomit . . ." Sima Yi wailed, putting a hand over his flat stomach.
"Great, just don't throw up on her. And stop biting your nails! You're going to get your spit on her." Zhang He scolded, tearing Sima Yi's finger out of his mouth. Diao Chan walked over to Sima Yi and quickly embraced him.
"You're going to do okay." She said as she backed off "I promise." She finished with a wink. He gave a feeble grin and with another encouraging push from Zhang He, strutted nervously to where Sun Shang Xiang was sitting. As he approached her, her expression changed and she patted the space beside her, signaling for Sima Yi to join her. Sima Yi shallowly shook his head, his lips moving as he held out his arm invitingly. She nodded enthusiastically and rose to join him. Together, they made their way to the forest and stepped into the dark trees. Zhang He and Diao Chan padded carefully across the shallow snowfield towards them. Diao Chan fell once, but Zhang He helped her up at once.
"Come on, we don't want to miss this!" Zhang He said happily, leading Diao Chan by the hand. She nodded and grinned.
"He seemed pretty calm at first, maybe he'll be 100 percent successful!" She said happily, keeping her voice down. They flew into the dark firs and at once slowed their pace. The sky was completely dark now and it was gloomy in the forest as it was. They tracked slowly until they could hear their voices in the distance. He caught Sima Yi's nervous laugh in front of him and began to slow down.
"My brother is so stupid. Can you believe he actually did that to me? He acts so high and mighty, prancing around with his great 'secret' that I can't know!" Sun Shang Xiang ranted, throwing her hands in the air.
"Can't believe it at all . . . Ha ha, that crazy Sun Ce . . ." He said sounding paralyzed, but Sun Shang Xiang was obviously too absorbed with her rant that she didn't notice.
"You're so responsible, nothing like that poor excuse for a brother. See there's the difference between a man with brains and one without. Sun Ce would probably jump off a bridge if some fool told him he could fly." She continued. Sima Yi exercised his nervous laugh again, but said nothing.
"That moron." Zhang He hissed. He dug into the chop0ped up snow on the ground and found a rock. He aimed carefully at Sima Yi's head. It collided with his head and he stopped, looking back warily. He saw Zhang He there and his eyes opened wide.
"TALK TO HER!" Zhang He mouthed as articulately as he could. Sima Yi nodded subtly and turned back.
"What is it?" She asked in a different tone, attempting to look back. Zhang He and Diao Chan froze, but luckily Sima Yi grabbed her shoulder with one arm and guided her forward before she saw anything.
"Nothing. Something hit me in the head." He said nonchalantly. They were quiet for a few seconds, the Sima Yi started up the conversation again. "You shouldn't be so hard on your brother. I know he's extremely obnoxious, but he only wishes you well." Sima Yi told her, sounding a bit more like himself.
"I guess. . ." She said, sounding a bit crestfallen. "Once I think about it . . . He is a pretty good guy. He's always been there for me and I kind of look up to him." She admitted. "But he's still an idiot." She added quickly. Sima Yi smiled in her direction, gazing sweetly into her sea-blue eyes. He suddenly broke his gaze when he realized he was staring. Next to Sun Shang Xiang, Sima Yi looked strong and protective, nothing like the disposition he had been exhibited just moments ago. Because she was very small, it made you forget Sima Yi short stature. Her shoulders were tiny, her hips perfectly rounded, not too skinny, not to large. Her reddish hair hung lazily around her neck, and her complexion looking perfect and radiant to Zhang He now, and for the first time Zhang He saw her true beauty, her personality was not the only trait Zhang He thought was lovely. He saw her for the first time as woman, not a friend. Her skinny legs moved along with such grace and the curvature of her chest, though not overly large, only added to her gorgeousness. His eyes moved from Sun Shang Xiang to Sima Yi. He pale face appeared innocent and handsome, with not only mature and refined air, but a bit of boyish mysterious, as if he were a child discovering something wonderful for the very first time. His eyes, a deep shade of profound auburn sparkled with a magical light that made you look right past the tiny dark spots below them. The purple cloth hat that was around his hat swung elegantly around his shoulders every time he took a step. Below his faultless face were his strong shoulders, wide and powerful, with the rich, dark purple robes draped over them. Zhang He thought of the countless scars he had seen decorating Sima Yi's chest whenever he removed his shirt, of the large gash that lined a horizon on his back. He had been through so much pain, yet he still managed to look content at this moment. His thin waist, shown by a thick black belt with a buckle shaped to look like a demon's face, looked frail and weak, but at the same time, made him seem even more handsome. Most of traits, such as skinniness, pale skin, and shadows beneath his eyes, would harrow a persons appearance, but for him it only made him look more grand.
These are truly beautiful people Zhang He thought as he watched them continue on. Soon, after the conversation was winding down a bit and Sun Shang Xiang looked a bit tired, Sima Yi started looking for a clearing with some sort of place to sit. Soon later on appeared with a tree that had fallen on its side.
"Why don't we go sit down?" Sima Yi offered, gesturing to the clearing "I'll bet you're tired." They walked over to the tree and Sima Yi brushed the snow off so they could sit down.
"Wow, would you look at that." Sun Shang Xiang said pointing to the moon as she as she sat down. Sima Yi hesitated and then took his place close beside her. She didn't seem to notice.
"It's beautiful." He said sentimentally. Zhang he and Diao Chan crept up to the bushes and peered through the leaves.
"Front row seats." Zhang He hissed in her ear. She smiled and put her index and middle finger over his lips. Suddenly Sima Yi's eyes lit up.
"Did you see? A shooting star!" He said pointing. "You should make a wish." She shook her head, but she was smiling broadly.
"You saw it first, it should be your wish." She explained.
"Alright, but I'm giving it to you. Now make a wish." He commanded amiably. She put a finger to her lips and looked up for a second. Then she returned to her original position and smiled at him.
"What did you wish for?" Sima Yi asked inquisitively.
"I'm not telling." She chorused childishly with a giggle. They both looked back up to the sky, smiling happily.
"Thanks for taking me out here, Sima Yi, it's just what I needed. I was feeling a little down before." Sun Shang Xiang said softly and gently, sounding like a different person.
"It's nothing. I really wanted some company and I . . . really enjoy being with you. . ." He nearly whispered, almost plunging his index finger back in his mouth. She looked up at him endearingly and leaned her head on his shoulder. Sima Yi started to look nervous again and looked towards Zhang He for direction. Zhang He made eye contact with him and deliberately put his arm around Diao Chan's shoulders. He looked like he understood and mimicked Zhang He, putting his hand protectively on Sun Shang Xiang's shoulder, pulling her even closer to himself. Zhang He's own heart began to thump, and he was hoping to high heaven Sima Yi would continue on this smoothly.
"It must have been hard for you . . . to lose your father, I mean." Sima Yi continued, Zhang He remembering the procedure they went through and smiling. Her eyes took on a sad look and she opened her mouth a bit.
"It was . . . well, I wasn't really . . . I've gotten . . ." She stammered.
"It's alright." Sima Yi said affectionately. "You can tell me how you really feel."
"I . . ." She started loudly. "Well . . . I do miss him a little. . . Oh, who am I kidding? I miss him a lot. . . I couldn't tell that to Ce and Quan, they'd call me a crybaby. Sure, they cried at first, but I'm still sad. I haven't got the strength of those two, I s-still have to cry . . . At night mostly, I'm afraid I'll wake up the others. "She gave a dry laugh as tiny tear threatened to leak from her eye. "Diao Chan did once. I was so embarrassed, but she comforted me a bit. Isn't she the best? I wish I could be more like her. She's such a great cook, such a wonderful singer, and so beautiful. And look at me I'm -" "You're just as beautiful." Sima Yi interrupted with great courage. She stared back at him. "And so what if you can't cook. I don't care if no one in the world will eat your cooking, but I always will. And you've never sung for me, I'm sure you sound just like an angel. And even if you don't . . . even if you don't it'll still be just as good to me. Never put yourself down, because you're really special and no matter how bad it seems you should always remember that." He said strongly, radiating strength and love.
"E-even when I'm a-all alone? No one w-will ever like me if I'm n-not f- feminine. . . I'll b-be alone . . ." She squeaked, the tears finally falling.
"You're not alone, I'm here for you." Sima Yi said, sounding like a totally different person. He pulled her close to his chest and wrapped his arms around her. "And, personally, I think you're perfect just the way you are. And I'd give . . ." He took a deep breath. "Absolutely anything to be with you all the time."
"Sima Yi, what are you saying?" She asked, sounding dazed.
"I'm saying I . . . I . . . I l . . ." He stammered, the courage draining fro from his voice. "I . . . I . . ." Zhang He wanted to scream it out for him. He had come so far, don't ruin it now, Sima Yi!
"What I'm t-trying to say i-i-is . . ." Sima Yi started again. " I lllll.ooo." Suddenly, Zhang He's head started to split with pain. He saw the figure of the Lady in Black silhouetted in front of him. All her blurred, incoherent fingers were extended and one went down each second. 9 . . . 8 . . . 7 . . . 6 . . .
"Sun Shang Xiang." Sima Yi began again, his chest puffing again with courage. He took a deep breath and opened his mouth. 5 . . . 4 . . .
"I LOVE YOU!" He nearly yelled. Her face was stunned at first but then it melted into an expression of deep affection.
"P-Promise?" She asked, still tearful.
"Promise." He replied strongly.
Sima Yi bent down gracefully and brought his and Sun Shang Xiang's lips together. 3 . . . 2 . . .
What do I do? Zhang He thought frantically, trying to shake off the pain in his head. What do I do?
this one (17 pages long!!!)
Enjoy!
Part 3
Romance of the Four Leaders
Chapter 38
An Everlasting Promise
When Zhang He crept out of his tent early in the morning, rubbing his puffy eyes and yawning, he discovered the ground was covered in a thick blanket of snow. After looking back at the tent he found its roof was sagging under a large mound as well. He crawled back inside and shook Sima Yi and Zhou Yu awake. Sun Ce grunted violently and rolled over, putting his hands over his head to block out the sound.
"Come on, Sun Ce, get up." Zhang He said, kicking his gently as he stood up. Sun Ce pulled the blanket around his head and complained in a muffled voice underneath it. "Alright, but when the tent collapses on you you're not going to like it." No answer. Zhang He shrugged and ushered the other two outside in the cold.
"Good Heavens, it's freezing out here!" Exclaimed Sima Yi, grabbing his skinny arms and rubbing them for warmth.
"We're getting dressed in warmer clothes now. We're going to head up the mountain to check things out before everyone goes." Zhang He explained. Neither of them looked very happy, but nobody complained. They gathered the straw snow-hats and straw raincoats and put on protective shoes. Then came the hard part.
In nearly an hour they had made it a good way's up. It was definitely much harder to breathe, as Sima Yi explained, but even harder to climb. Nine out of ten times they sunk in the snow and were quickly out of breath. By noon the surroundings suddenly changed. Instead of the vicious, steep climb, it flattened out to a wide and spacious flat ground. Every which way stood pine trees, snow covered bridges and half frozen rivers. The snow sparkled in flawless heaps, frosting the world like an unc=even cake.
"This is the place for sure. I remember it, I think . . ." Sima Yi said, his feet crunching on the snow as he stepped a it forward. The air was clear and crisp and it was beautiful day.
"Whomever wishes to, please go back down and get the others? We now know we're on the right track and the path should be easier now." Zhou Yu was first to volunteer, though he did it halfheartedly, still panting some from the climb.
After nearly an hour of waiting, the rest of the party showed up. Ning led the way, blasting forward at full speed over the hill. The second he saw all the untouched snow he bellowed a mighty 'NING!' and leapt into the undisturbed powder, spaying flakes in all directions. Then came Xiao Qiao singing a cute little song between deep breaths and prancing next to Zhou Yu, as usual. Zhou Tai was close behind them, eyeing his son with some dislike as if daring for him to take Xiao Qiao's hand. Mitsuko pulled herself up the steep trail, holding her Katana in the air like a hiking staff, followed by Sun Ce, who still looked grumpy and fatigued. Afterwards were Sun Shang Xiang and Da Qiao, who were engaged in a deep conversation about something Zhang He couldn't understand from what they were saying at the moment. Bringing up the rear was a solitary Diao Chan, looking tired and harrowed from the difficult climb.
"Great, they all made it." Zhang He said to Sima Yi and he went to greet Diao Chan. Once they had joined up with her, Zhang He sought out Zhou Yu. He was still being stalked by Zhou Tai and was speaking uncomfortably with Xiao Qiao, looking back at the towering man behind him every few seconds.
"Hey, Zhou Yu." Sima Yi addressed him. He looked over at the threesome.
"Hello." He answered shortly.
"Zhang He, where are we? Are we going to go home soon? I'm cooold . . ." Xiao Qiao whined.
"I don't know, Xiao Qiao. We've got to find Sima Hua, and I really don't know exactly where he lives." Zhang He explained.
"Zhou Yuuuu . . ." She whimpered "I'm tired. Will you please carry me on your back?" She asked, her eyes sparkling innocently. Zhou Yu looked a bit flattered and his cheeks flushed pink.
"Of c-course . . ." He stammered Xiao Qiao squealing with delight and jumping energetically on his back, her hands locking around his neck.
"Get off of him right now. . ." Growled Zhou Tai fiercely. Xiao Qiao looked a bit frightened and with wide eyes slid off Zhou Yu's back. She then took a couple of steps backward and hid behind Zhou Yu, poking her head out cautiously.
"Father . . ." Zhou Yu complained indignantly. "What are you doing?"
"You are a respectable man, you will not be ridden by a woman like some sort of worthless beast." He said harshly. Zhou Yu looked like he was about to give in for a moment, then he regained his courage with a visible expression.
"Then I'll carry her, instead." He said with a fierce disposition. Before Zhou Tai could say anything more, Zhou Yu seized Xiao Qiao and marched off proudly.
"That boy . . ." Snarled Zhou Tai. "He'll be knocked off his high horse one of these days, and then he'll see . . ." The rest of the group passed by them and across the snow frosted bridge.
Zhang He and Diao Chan exchanged looks but Sima Yi did nothing.
"That was a bit harsh, don't you think? Zhou Yu and Xiao Qiao were only having a bit of fun." Diao Chan stated once Zhou Tai was out of earshot.
"Yeah, I think Zhou Yu did the right thing." Zhang He said, feeling a bit proud of his brother for standing up finally. Sima Yi was still silent.
"I wonder why Zhou Tai is like that . . ." Diao Chan mused with a finger on her lower lip.
"I bet it has something to do with Zhou Yu's mother. Have you ever seen her? Once?" Zhang He pointed out.
"No, but I've never seen Sun Ce's mother either, and I know for a fact she's fine. Sun Shang Xiang told me so." Diao Chan said, putting up a good argument.
"Yes, but Zhou Tai has issues. I mean, he still treats Zhou Yu like he's a ten year old. I've got to know why . . .," Zhang He said, wondering if even his masterful eavesdropping skills could help him this time.
"Why don't you . . ." Sima Yi began warily. "Just leave him alone . . ." Zhang He looked over at him, looking a bit surprised.
"What did you say?" He asked. Sima Yi stopped and looked at his feet.
"Well, it's not really any of your business. If you ask him and he tells you I suppose that's alright, but you shouldn't pry into his personal life. Zhou Tai has every right to treat him that way, it's his decision." Sima Yi answered strongly. "A father has infinite control over his son and this right shouldn't be tampered with." Zhang He narrowed his eyes a bit and felt a severe annoyance poke out in his chest.
"Just because your father took advantage of you and made you suffer doesn't mean anyone's father can. And maybe I want to find out what actually happened, no harm will come of that." Zhang He replied savagely. Diao Chan looked up at him as if pleading to apologize now so this wouldn't evolve to something more.
"You're wrong, Zhang He! I know you don't like hearing that you're wrong, but you are. It's not a nice thing to do. You seem to enjoy violating people's privacy. If you were a strong man you'd stop right now." Sima Yi challenged. Zhang He, feeling Diao Chan's piercing stare, decided he'd better stop right now. All he needed now was to be in a fight with Sima Yi. He sighed, but then an idea came to him.
"Alright, I'll stop if you show me you're a strong man, too." He said coolly, a grin appearing on his lips. "If YOU were a strong man, you'd tell Sun Shang Xiang how you feel." Sima Yi gasped quietly for second.
"Th-that's not the same thing." He answered almost shaking at the prospect.
"Ohh, right it's different if it concerns you doing something you don't want to, I forgot." Zhang He said, sounding cocky. He smiled despite himself, his plan was working perfectly.
"Quiet! I can tell Sun Shang Xiang how I feel anytime I want!" Sima Yi declared, suddenly realizing his pride had just gotten him locked in an inescapable trap.
"Alright, then tonight. Tell her tonight, and I have to witness it." Zhang He said, hands on his hips.
"B-but . . ."
"Wait, wait. . ." Zhang He interrupted, almost laughing. "Did you not just say?"
"Yes! I said it . . ." Sima Yi said angrily, stomping his foot down. It was funny to see Sima Yi acting fierce, being only 5' 5".
"Then you'll follow through?" Zhang He asked, eyebrow raised.
"I s-suppose." Sima Yi said, sounding defeated. "But . . . But . . ."
"What?"
"I don't know how . . ." Sima Yi answered, playing with the snow in the ground with his shoe.
"What're you talking about?" Zhang He asked, growing exasperated. " Just say 'Sun Shang Xiang, I love you.'"
"I can't just walk up to her and say that! She'd think it's weird, and Sun Ce will be there . . . He'll make fun of me . . ." Sima Yi said, a patch of pink appearing on his face.
"Look, when it's about twilight walk to where she is and announce that you're going for a walk because it's such a nice place. She'll come with you, she always does." Zhang He explained.
"But wait! What if she doesn't?" Sima Yi interrupted, whining with fear.
"Then invite her. As I was saying . . ."
"But she'll know something is up if I do that! She's going to reject me, Zhang He! This will ruin everything, don't make me!" He said on the verge of hysterics.
"Calm down, calm down! She won't reject you! Now, once you two get into the forest, Diao Chan and I will follow behind you silently. Then bring her into a clearing and sit her down. Then sit beside her, really close beside her. Then start a conversation and casually lay an arm across her shoulders. Then change the subject to something tragic and when she is crying and hopelessly put your arms . . ." Zhang He started, but Sima Yi interrupted again.
"No way, uh-uh. This is getting too intimate. She'll think I'm a pervert, taking her out all the way in the forest then moving in! It's wrong. The whole thing's off." Sima Yi protested, shaking his head.
"For Heaven's sake, Sima Yi! She's going to be your wife someday! Why are you afraid? You do love her, right?" Zhang He said.
"Yes, of course, but I'm afraid, Zhang He. I've never done anything like this before, I'm frightened." He admitted.
"That's alright, it's ok to be afraid. Just go through with it. I was terrified when I first kissed Diao Chan, don't you remember?" He asked Diao Chan. She smiled sweetly at him.
"I sure do. We had to try three times, people kept walking in on us and attacking us and all sorts of things happened. But when it finally happened . . . ." She looked dreamy and rested her head on Zhang He's shoulder. He blushed a bit and slipped a hand around her waist.
"Can you just . . . show me?" Sima Yi asked, scratching his head worriedly. "So I'll have a point of reference?" Zhang He nodded.
"Look, I'll be you and Diao Chan will be Sun Shang Xiang." Zhang He said. "Pretend we're in the forest."
He walked over to a stump near to them and brushed off the snow. He gestured to Diao Chan and she sat down and he nonchalantly sat beside her so that their hips were touching. He looked over at Sima Yi. Sima Yi nodded, showing that he understood and Zhang He continued.
"This place is sure beautiful, eh, Sun Shang Xiang?" Zhang He said clearly and without emotion.
"Oh, yes. I love the snow." Diao Chan answered, her voice dripping with mock sincerity.
"It sure reminds me . . . something . . ." Zhang He continued, running out of ideas.
"Oh, something, that's the best." She played along. Zhang He yawned in a phony way and laid his arm on Diao Chan's shoulders.
"Now's, here's the tricky part. You've got to watch her body language. If she's looks uncomfortable and start biting her nails or something, scoot away from her and cough innocently like nothing happened. Then just really take a walk and go home in failure." Sima Yi looked a bit discouraged, but said nothing. "And if she blushes a bit, or smiles or leans against you, you'll know you're on the right track." A worry line appeared on Sima Yi's forehead but he nodded nonetheless.
"Now, comes the toughest part. The tragic conversation. You've got to be careful not to offend her, which could end in disaster. But you've got to be able to tell the difference between offending and feigned toughness." Diao Chan lectured.
"Try something like this: 'It must have been very tough losing your father.'" Zhang He started.
"Knowing Sun Shang Xiang, she'll probably lie and say something like: 'No way, I don't need people like him to tell me what to do.' Or something of the sort." Diao Chan said and bit hopelessly.
"Now, I wouldn't know really what to here, but try 'You don't have to act tough around me. I can understand if you're upset or if your brothers would think it's babyish to be sad.'"
"Oh, yes, these past few weeks have been agony for me. All I see when I try to fall asleep is his face when he died, burned into the back of my mind. I stay up all night crying and wishing I had someone to condole with." Diao Chan whined melodramatically. She made counterfeit weeping sounds and covered her face with her hands. Zhang He took her firmly in his arms and she buried her face in his chest and weakly grabbed him round the middle.
"Oh, Sun Shang Xiang. I never knew. You should have said something or come to me. I'll do anything for you." Zhang He said, just as dramatically as Diao Chan.
"But why, Sima Yi, why?" She asked tearfully.
"Because I love you!" Zhang He announced and kissed her in a picture perfect way. Once they were done they both stood up and smiled.
"That's about it." Said Diao Chan, wiping some snow off her front.
"That's hard to remember. I think maybe . . ." Sima Yi began, but Zhang He stopped him.
"No. You're doing it tonight whether you like it or not." Zhang He said, laying down the law. "Of course if you don't want to do it, I can always tell her for you . . ." Zhang He smiled cruelly. Sima Yi's eyes went wide and he shook his head vigorously. Suddenly, Mitsuko called back to them.
"Hey! What are you three doing back there? Hurry up, or we'll leave you behind!" She yelled, her person a tiny silhouette about 100 feet away from them. Zhang he started to run towards her. As he passed by Sima Yi he whispered "Tonight" at him, which Sima Yi returned with a worried look. Finally, he would be able to make the match he had wanted for so long to be true. He loved Sima Yi and Sun Shang Xiang both and nothing would make him happier than to have them be together as a couple. Well, Diao Chan marrying him might make him happier . . .
It seemed tonight couldn't come fast enough. The trudged on through the shallow banks, everyone slipping once or twice, requiring someone to pull them out. More and more Zhang He began to realize that they were not just lucky, the tree were cut in a definite path. They were definitely going somewhere, winding down this silvery path of nature. The cool breeze made everyone's hair dance vaguely and it seemed that Zhang He's misty gray eyes could pick up more in the quiet environment, for movement seemed scarce. At times a huge heap of snow would plummet down suddenly from the boughs of the deep green pine trees and crash down to earth, making a soft thunk noise and Zhang He's every nerve would go on end. One time Xiao Qiao, whom was now walking again, stopped to look at a tree.
"I heard if you yell you can cause an avalanche!" She said energetically to Zhou Yu. He nodded.
"Yes, and that's why you should be quie -" He began, but Xiao Qiao had decided that since she was being told not to do something, she'd better do it. She yelled at the top of her lungs and stared hopefully up at the tree. Naturally, a mound loosened itself and came down on Xiao Qiao, knocking her too the ground. Zhou Yu stepped back suddenly, but the kneeled on the snow in front of him and began to dig her out. Soon she was excavated from the enormous pile, shivering and stunned.
"W-was the an avalanche?" She asked, still sounding woozy and stepping around like she was dizzy.
"No, but don't do it again. When I tell you something, it's generally correct." He scolded gently.
"Yes, Zhou Yu." She said obediently, brushing snow off her front. Once things had quieted down, Zhang He's heart returned to feeling like her was no longer in the same world. It was like this place was sacred, perfect. This was perhaps a place where deities dwelled, and they, the ignorant humans, were trespassing like fools, destroying their perfect world. The silent sadness was broken by the abrupt and careless footsteps of men. He suddenly realized he was letting his mind wander, and no such thing could be, but it still made him feel uneasy. He looked around for Diao Chan and located her, socializing with Sun Shang Xiang and Da Qiao. At once they broke into a chorus of girlish giggles, pointing at Zhou Tai behind his back. When he turned around to see what the source was they grew quiet and their faces went straight. As soon as he turned back they exchanged proud glances and began whispering rapidly again, looking at different people as they spoke. Zhang He turned away from them, grinning at their silly innocence. He would never understand women, but he loved them all the same.
Soon Zhang He's thoughts turned to Zhou Yu again. 'You did it twice Sun Ce, you pushed me in, and you pushed her in! She died because of you, Sun Ce! YOU KILLED HER!' Zhang He remembered Zhou Yu's face on that day. On the verge of tears, he looked scared and helpless, not anything like the Zhou Yu he knew. He then thought of Zhou Yu's normal expression. Placid, calm, charming, pampered yet not spoiled, a complete gentleman (expensive robes and all), a certain all-knowing light behind his light brown eyes, a lovely color that sometime appeared yellow in the right lighting, but there was something that shone through, even though you couldn't see it. There was also sadness in those eyes, Zhang He now realized, a sadness well hidden, well masked, but it remain nonetheless. He also realized how when Zhou Yu smiled his eyes still possessed that doleful shade. He eyebrows never moved to show he was sad, his lips formed a grin, but the eyes truly showed what he felt. Zhou Yu was a great person; Zhang He knew they would always have the strongest bond of friendship. He smiled at Zhou Yu's uncanny ability to mediate any disagreement without losing his cool, he superior knowledge of any and all musical instruments, he vast awareness of difficulty dances, and not to mention he could paint. Zhou Yu was also smart, he was almost up to par with Sima Yi in intelligence, and that was saying something. So everything with him was wonderful, right?
After another hour or two, the sun was directly at eyes level, making everyone squint and shade their eyes with their hand. Sun Ce walked up powerfully to Zhang He and matched his gait beside him.
"How're we doing?" He asked, fingering the tiny beard on his chin. "Can we set up camp yet? I'm tired."
"Just a little more. I want to cover as much ground as we can before the light is gone." Zhang He explained. Sun Ce sighed.
"More walking . . ." He whined. "I remember the good ol' days when me and my brother and sister and Zhou Yu used to stay inside all day during the winter. I'd just sit in front of the fire all day and make Sun Quan get things for me. That was the best. I didn't even have to move or change out of my sleeping robes." He looked dreamy, probably holding on tenderly to memory. Zhang He laughed
"You're just lazy." He reprimanded jokingly.
"Yeah, I guess." He smiled mischievously. "Naw, not lazy, just . . . laid back." They were quiet for a moment while Zhang He fiddled with the thought of telling Sun Ce about Sima Yi's upcoming exploits. He knew Sun Ce might act violently to it, and he didn't want to spoil his good mood, but then again, he might act even more violently to finding out afterwards. Zhang He decided he'd better tell him. He would tell him, but tell him gently, so as not to arouse his ire.
"Hey, Sun Ce . . ." He said warily, alerting his attention.
"Hm?" Sun Ce answered calmly, scooping up some snow from the side of the road.
"You're alright with - are you eating that snow?" He asked as Sun Ce put some powder in his mouth. He nodded blissfully, melting snowflakes all over his face as he sucked the remainder of snow off his fingers. Zhang He shook his head, forgetting Sun Ce's strangeness and went on. "As I was saying, you have no hard feelings about . . . Sima Yi and Sun Shang Xiang, right?" Sun Ce stiffened and suddenly looked serious.
"Why?" His eyes were so steely and he failed in an attempt to look fierce because of the melting snow on his face. Zhang He was about to tell him the truth but a rich idea struck him. One so good, he absolutley couldn't pass the opportunity up, he had to do it.
"Well.," He started, fight hard to hold back a grin. "She's pregnant." Sun Ce's eyes went wide and his jaw hung open.
"WHAT?" He bellowed, this time successfully looking fierce. He head snapped over to look at Sima Yi, innocently, yet reproachfully tramping through the endless white. His lips formed a snarl. "I'm going to kill him! That mother f-" Zhang He's little prank had gone on far enough and he interrupted before Sun Ce could start screaming profanity.
"I'm kidding, I'm kidding!" He shouted through fits of unstoppable laughter at Sun Ce. "I'm sorry. . . I couldn't resist." He said wiping a tear from his eye. Sun Ce stood, looking stupid when he suddenly realized he'd been tricked.
"Ha ha, Zhang He, very funny." He spat, looking embarrassed. "You just put Sima Yi's life at risk. I was about ready to knock his head clean off."
"Sorry, but that was really funny. You should have seen you face." He said, shaking off the remainder of his folly. "Anyway, you're alright with them?" Sun Ce nodded, though a bit grudgingly.
"Good, then. You won't beat him up for this." Zhang He teased, peaking Sun Ce's interest.
"Whaddaya mean?" Sun Ce asked, picking up the pace once again.
"Well, tonight he's telling her how he feels, I tricked him into it. I thought you ought to know, seeing as you're the one she belongs to ever since your father died." Zhang He explained. Sun Ce pondered grudgingly for a moment.
"Yeah, she oughta be alright with him." He said at last. Some of the fight had drained from his eyes while he spoke. "She's is getting older and marriage is imminent for someone like her. I s'pose it's better than selling her off to some old fat guy in return for land or something. I'll at least know she's being treated right. But . . . you know . . . it's kind of sad. Ever since she could talk, she's always looked up to me. She fakes hating me sometimes, and I do too, but she'll always be my little sis. It'll be weird not having sis there to go on adventures with, to just joke with, to be in the family. I'll miss protecting her, but I know Sima Yi will be as good as any . . . " He finished.
"It's not like she's getting married yet, or anything." Zhang He said, trying to condole.
"Not yet anyway. But trust me, she will. Then we might never see each other again . . ."
"Hey, that's not true. We're getting the mansion together, remember? All eight of us! We'll always be together. In fact, you'll probably see her so much you'll get sick of her!" Zhang He said optimistically. Sun Ce smiled.
"Yeah, you're right! Once this war is over, a new dynasty will take place and we can all live happily ever after in our giant mansion!" Sun Ce cheered. Zhang He smiled too.
"Well, Sun Ce, you'll be happy to hear that we are stopping for today." Zhang He announced as he stopped walking. "This should be a good place everyone! Let's set up the tents and get some dinner going."
After everyone had set down their packs, they all got to work. Zhang He and the other men, except Gan Ning who was busy making a fool of himself, worked hard to put up the tents, one by one. The four, large, dome shaped tents were put up by pushing several of the poles around in a circle, then putting up basic framework on the top. An hour later, After the cloths were laid over them, the six of the rounded the corner to the center of their camp to see what the women were cooking. Mitsuko had stoked her miraculous fire and Diao Chan was busy cooking something in a large iron pot that smelled wonderful. Inside was a creamy, light yellow stew with hunks of potatoes, carrots, celery, and mushrooms. She talked busily while she stirred, teaching Mitsuko, Xiao and Da Qiao how to do it.
"Where'd you get all that stuff?" Sun Ce asked, attempting to put his finger in for a taste test. She slapped his hand gently away and answered his query.
"I brought it all before we left. I knew we'd all be cold up here, so I was saving it for the most frigid night, so at least our insides can be warm." She said.
"You're so thoughtful!" Praised Zhang He, smiling happily at her.
Sun Shang Xiang arrived all of a sudden with what looked like an armful of fish along with Mitsuko's makeshift fishing pole.
"The river down there is loaded with them! They can't get out because a big chunk of ice is blocking it, so their eager for some food." Sun Shang Xiang explained, reading their astonished looks. She didn't really seem to care her entire front was wet with water and some fish blood. She walked merrily up to Diao Chan's pot and peered inside.
"That smells great! All I do is dump these guys in there?" She said, just nearly doing it.
"NO!" Said Diao Chan, stopping disaster in its tracks. "They have to be cleaned first. Hand them here."
In a matter of moments Diao Chan had it so the fish were cleaned and the remainder was thrown away. The savory meat was added to her stew and she stirred it once again, making everyone's mouth water. When she finally told everyone to get their bowls, a cheer rang out. Everyone filled their bowls and engaged in a friendly talk. Zhang He noticed Sima Yi was almost silent during dinner and barely touched his food.
Soon after, everyone was full to the brim with Diao Chan's wonderful food. They all lounged around, talking contentedly and laughing. Soon everyone spread out into their own separate groups, sitting on stumps or rocks or whatever happened to be lying around. Zhang He joined up with Diao Chan and together they hunted down Sima Yi. He was sitting alone, looking even more pale than usual, if that was possible. His eyes had a glazed look and he was compulsively chewing his nails. Zhang he heard a soft crack as he nearly bit the entire nail off of his index finger. A bit of blood blossomed out, but he quickly quieted it with his tongue. Zhang He looked at the rest of his fingers to find they also were chewed down to the nub. As Zhang he and Diao Chan stepped in front of him his looked up dazedly, his index finger still stuck in his mouth.
"It's time, Sima Yi." Zhang eh said, a little more ominously than he had wished.
"But. . ." Sima Yi protested helplessly, his voice sounding thick and unused. Zhang He gently grabbed his arm and pulled him to his feet.
"Come on, you won't regret this." He said comfortingly.
"Zhang He . . . I'm not ready for something like this. I don't know what to do. What if -" He said, his lip trembling.
"What if all works out and you two are married in a week? Always look on the bright side of life." Zhang He said, pulling Sima Yi forward.
"Easy for you to say . . . and I'm a pessimist for you information!" Sima Yi squeaked, his voice sounding weak.
"You'll be fine." Diao Chan said sympathetically, putting a hand on his shoulder.. "I know for a fact that she has a crush on you."
"But still . . ." Sima Yi whined, Zhang He still hauling him forward. Zhang He stopped for a moment, scanning the grounds for Sun Shang Xiang. She was sitting on a stump with Xiao Qiao and Da Qiao. She was still smiling and talking animatedly with them.
"No way, no way! There is no way in Hell I'm asking her to come with me if they watch." Sima Yi said, putting his foot down. Zhang He thought rapidly. He turned to Diao Chan.
"Explain the situation to Zhou Yu and Sun Ce. They'll know what to do." He said. Diao Chan nodded and trotted off. Zhang He suddenly noticed that Sima Yi was gone and wheeled around to see him escaping stealthily into the shadows. Zhang He caught him by the arm and yanked him back in front of him.
"Where do you think your going?" He asked a bit testily. Sima Yi whimpered.
"Please, Zhang He, don't make me do this. I'm not cut out for this type of thing! I'll screw it up for sure! Why not just let it happen naturally? Please Zhang He, have a heart! I'm begging you!" Sima Yi whined, fighting desperately for his freedom, but Zhang He was a lot stronger than him and his grip could not be easily loosened.
"This is for you own good." Zhang He said strongly, refusing to let Sima Yi go. A soon as he stopped talking Zhou Yu and Sun Ce bolted out from one of the tents and Diao Chan slipped around the back and in a matter of moment was behind Zhang He, panting slightly. Zhou Yu went up to Xiao Qiao to Sun Ce to Da Qiao and the whispered into their ears. A looked of understanding came over each one of their faces and they both nodded, almost simultaneously. The both stood up and started to follow after Zhou Yu and Sun Ce. Sun Shang Xiang got up, eager to find out what the big secret was, but Sun Ce barred her from advancing. Zhang He could tell they were in skirmish from the vicious expressions they bore and the incoherent shouting. He almost laughed when Sun Shang Xiang leapt on Sun Ce's chest and started beating him ruthlessly. Zhou Yu picked her up from under her armpits, her fist still swinging in Sun Ce's direction. After all the fighting had ceased and Zhou Yu and the rest were gone, she retreated back to the stump, alone and pouting.
"Now is the time, Sima Yi. Now or never." Zhang He announced, pushing him towards her.
"I just know this is going to end in tragedy. I feel so sick, Zhang He. I feel like I might vomit . . ." Sima Yi wailed, putting a hand over his flat stomach.
"Great, just don't throw up on her. And stop biting your nails! You're going to get your spit on her." Zhang He scolded, tearing Sima Yi's finger out of his mouth. Diao Chan walked over to Sima Yi and quickly embraced him.
"You're going to do okay." She said as she backed off "I promise." She finished with a wink. He gave a feeble grin and with another encouraging push from Zhang He, strutted nervously to where Sun Shang Xiang was sitting. As he approached her, her expression changed and she patted the space beside her, signaling for Sima Yi to join her. Sima Yi shallowly shook his head, his lips moving as he held out his arm invitingly. She nodded enthusiastically and rose to join him. Together, they made their way to the forest and stepped into the dark trees. Zhang He and Diao Chan padded carefully across the shallow snowfield towards them. Diao Chan fell once, but Zhang He helped her up at once.
"Come on, we don't want to miss this!" Zhang He said happily, leading Diao Chan by the hand. She nodded and grinned.
"He seemed pretty calm at first, maybe he'll be 100 percent successful!" She said happily, keeping her voice down. They flew into the dark firs and at once slowed their pace. The sky was completely dark now and it was gloomy in the forest as it was. They tracked slowly until they could hear their voices in the distance. He caught Sima Yi's nervous laugh in front of him and began to slow down.
"My brother is so stupid. Can you believe he actually did that to me? He acts so high and mighty, prancing around with his great 'secret' that I can't know!" Sun Shang Xiang ranted, throwing her hands in the air.
"Can't believe it at all . . . Ha ha, that crazy Sun Ce . . ." He said sounding paralyzed, but Sun Shang Xiang was obviously too absorbed with her rant that she didn't notice.
"You're so responsible, nothing like that poor excuse for a brother. See there's the difference between a man with brains and one without. Sun Ce would probably jump off a bridge if some fool told him he could fly." She continued. Sima Yi exercised his nervous laugh again, but said nothing.
"That moron." Zhang He hissed. He dug into the chop0ped up snow on the ground and found a rock. He aimed carefully at Sima Yi's head. It collided with his head and he stopped, looking back warily. He saw Zhang He there and his eyes opened wide.
"TALK TO HER!" Zhang He mouthed as articulately as he could. Sima Yi nodded subtly and turned back.
"What is it?" She asked in a different tone, attempting to look back. Zhang He and Diao Chan froze, but luckily Sima Yi grabbed her shoulder with one arm and guided her forward before she saw anything.
"Nothing. Something hit me in the head." He said nonchalantly. They were quiet for a few seconds, the Sima Yi started up the conversation again. "You shouldn't be so hard on your brother. I know he's extremely obnoxious, but he only wishes you well." Sima Yi told her, sounding a bit more like himself.
"I guess. . ." She said, sounding a bit crestfallen. "Once I think about it . . . He is a pretty good guy. He's always been there for me and I kind of look up to him." She admitted. "But he's still an idiot." She added quickly. Sima Yi smiled in her direction, gazing sweetly into her sea-blue eyes. He suddenly broke his gaze when he realized he was staring. Next to Sun Shang Xiang, Sima Yi looked strong and protective, nothing like the disposition he had been exhibited just moments ago. Because she was very small, it made you forget Sima Yi short stature. Her shoulders were tiny, her hips perfectly rounded, not too skinny, not to large. Her reddish hair hung lazily around her neck, and her complexion looking perfect and radiant to Zhang He now, and for the first time Zhang He saw her true beauty, her personality was not the only trait Zhang He thought was lovely. He saw her for the first time as woman, not a friend. Her skinny legs moved along with such grace and the curvature of her chest, though not overly large, only added to her gorgeousness. His eyes moved from Sun Shang Xiang to Sima Yi. He pale face appeared innocent and handsome, with not only mature and refined air, but a bit of boyish mysterious, as if he were a child discovering something wonderful for the very first time. His eyes, a deep shade of profound auburn sparkled with a magical light that made you look right past the tiny dark spots below them. The purple cloth hat that was around his hat swung elegantly around his shoulders every time he took a step. Below his faultless face were his strong shoulders, wide and powerful, with the rich, dark purple robes draped over them. Zhang He thought of the countless scars he had seen decorating Sima Yi's chest whenever he removed his shirt, of the large gash that lined a horizon on his back. He had been through so much pain, yet he still managed to look content at this moment. His thin waist, shown by a thick black belt with a buckle shaped to look like a demon's face, looked frail and weak, but at the same time, made him seem even more handsome. Most of traits, such as skinniness, pale skin, and shadows beneath his eyes, would harrow a persons appearance, but for him it only made him look more grand.
These are truly beautiful people Zhang He thought as he watched them continue on. Soon, after the conversation was winding down a bit and Sun Shang Xiang looked a bit tired, Sima Yi started looking for a clearing with some sort of place to sit. Soon later on appeared with a tree that had fallen on its side.
"Why don't we go sit down?" Sima Yi offered, gesturing to the clearing "I'll bet you're tired." They walked over to the tree and Sima Yi brushed the snow off so they could sit down.
"Wow, would you look at that." Sun Shang Xiang said pointing to the moon as she as she sat down. Sima Yi hesitated and then took his place close beside her. She didn't seem to notice.
"It's beautiful." He said sentimentally. Zhang he and Diao Chan crept up to the bushes and peered through the leaves.
"Front row seats." Zhang He hissed in her ear. She smiled and put her index and middle finger over his lips. Suddenly Sima Yi's eyes lit up.
"Did you see? A shooting star!" He said pointing. "You should make a wish." She shook her head, but she was smiling broadly.
"You saw it first, it should be your wish." She explained.
"Alright, but I'm giving it to you. Now make a wish." He commanded amiably. She put a finger to her lips and looked up for a second. Then she returned to her original position and smiled at him.
"What did you wish for?" Sima Yi asked inquisitively.
"I'm not telling." She chorused childishly with a giggle. They both looked back up to the sky, smiling happily.
"Thanks for taking me out here, Sima Yi, it's just what I needed. I was feeling a little down before." Sun Shang Xiang said softly and gently, sounding like a different person.
"It's nothing. I really wanted some company and I . . . really enjoy being with you. . ." He nearly whispered, almost plunging his index finger back in his mouth. She looked up at him endearingly and leaned her head on his shoulder. Sima Yi started to look nervous again and looked towards Zhang He for direction. Zhang He made eye contact with him and deliberately put his arm around Diao Chan's shoulders. He looked like he understood and mimicked Zhang He, putting his hand protectively on Sun Shang Xiang's shoulder, pulling her even closer to himself. Zhang He's own heart began to thump, and he was hoping to high heaven Sima Yi would continue on this smoothly.
"It must have been hard for you . . . to lose your father, I mean." Sima Yi continued, Zhang He remembering the procedure they went through and smiling. Her eyes took on a sad look and she opened her mouth a bit.
"It was . . . well, I wasn't really . . . I've gotten . . ." She stammered.
"It's alright." Sima Yi said affectionately. "You can tell me how you really feel."
"I . . ." She started loudly. "Well . . . I do miss him a little. . . Oh, who am I kidding? I miss him a lot. . . I couldn't tell that to Ce and Quan, they'd call me a crybaby. Sure, they cried at first, but I'm still sad. I haven't got the strength of those two, I s-still have to cry . . . At night mostly, I'm afraid I'll wake up the others. "She gave a dry laugh as tiny tear threatened to leak from her eye. "Diao Chan did once. I was so embarrassed, but she comforted me a bit. Isn't she the best? I wish I could be more like her. She's such a great cook, such a wonderful singer, and so beautiful. And look at me I'm -" "You're just as beautiful." Sima Yi interrupted with great courage. She stared back at him. "And so what if you can't cook. I don't care if no one in the world will eat your cooking, but I always will. And you've never sung for me, I'm sure you sound just like an angel. And even if you don't . . . even if you don't it'll still be just as good to me. Never put yourself down, because you're really special and no matter how bad it seems you should always remember that." He said strongly, radiating strength and love.
"E-even when I'm a-all alone? No one w-will ever like me if I'm n-not f- feminine. . . I'll b-be alone . . ." She squeaked, the tears finally falling.
"You're not alone, I'm here for you." Sima Yi said, sounding like a totally different person. He pulled her close to his chest and wrapped his arms around her. "And, personally, I think you're perfect just the way you are. And I'd give . . ." He took a deep breath. "Absolutely anything to be with you all the time."
"Sima Yi, what are you saying?" She asked, sounding dazed.
"I'm saying I . . . I . . . I l . . ." He stammered, the courage draining fro from his voice. "I . . . I . . ." Zhang He wanted to scream it out for him. He had come so far, don't ruin it now, Sima Yi!
"What I'm t-trying to say i-i-is . . ." Sima Yi started again. " I lllll.ooo." Suddenly, Zhang He's head started to split with pain. He saw the figure of the Lady in Black silhouetted in front of him. All her blurred, incoherent fingers were extended and one went down each second. 9 . . . 8 . . . 7 . . . 6 . . .
"Sun Shang Xiang." Sima Yi began again, his chest puffing again with courage. He took a deep breath and opened his mouth. 5 . . . 4 . . .
"I LOVE YOU!" He nearly yelled. Her face was stunned at first but then it melted into an expression of deep affection.
"P-Promise?" She asked, still tearful.
"Promise." He replied strongly.
Sima Yi bent down gracefully and brought his and Sun Shang Xiang's lips together. 3 . . . 2 . . .
What do I do? Zhang He thought frantically, trying to shake off the pain in his head. What do I do?